We get information about many superfoods on TV and the Internet. Superfood is well-being food that contains a lot of nutrients, so it is attracting many people's attention. Superfoods are popularized by famous celebrities, and they are introduced in TV health programs. However, if you do not know the characteristics of a superfood, it could be a poison. Therefore, the Pharos will introduce some superfoods’ efficacy and features, and guide you on what you should be careful about when you take them.

1. Tiger Nut

 Tiger nut, called “almonds in the ground,” is considered a next-generation superfood because it contains a lot of water and is high in calcium. It also contains a lot of protein and unsaturated fatty acids. In addition, there are abundant minerals, such as magnesium, which has a low absorption rate of potassium and which reduces sodium. Furthermore, dietary fiber is 14 times higher than in burdock, 8 times that of apples, and 2.5 times that of almonds. Tiger nut which also contains vitamin E and is a good snack for those interested in diet and beauty. However, if you overdose on tiger nuts, it can lead to abdominal pain or diarrhea. Thus, it should be noted that it is best to eat 4 or 5 pieces at a time and no more than 15 pieces per day.

2. Chaga Mushroom

 Chaga mushroom is a superfood that has anti-cancer and immune effects as well as an anti-inflammatory effect. The betacarotene and vitamin A in chaga mushrooms are effective in healing atopic dermatitis and can prevent adult diseases and cardiovascular diseases because they reduce cholesterol. It also contains SOD, an antioxidant enzyme, which removes bad free radicals from the human body. Additionally, the inositol component of chaga mushrooms makes the intestinal bacterial environment healthy. It helps people with effective short-term dieting by promoting fat decomposition and combustion. However, you must brew them with lukewarm water because the nutritional content of the mushrooms will be destroyed in hot water.

3. Nelumbo Nucifera Seed

 Nelumbo nucifera seed has been loved and called the king’s food because of its many beneficial effects. Nelumbo nucifera seed contains the essential amino acid, methionine, at nearly 20.5 times the amount in ginger, and 24 times the amount in pumpkins. Nelumbo nucifera seed is effective in removing blood waste because it serves to release unnecessary neutrons and various chemicals in the blood. However, you should be careful because it can cause the side effects of constipation and urination. You should also take it carefully because of the risk of an allergic reaction.

4. Noni

 Noni is a kind of tropical fruit and is called the “treaty medicine” and “God’s gift” among tropical Aborigine. Noni is a superfood that has been used as a folk remedy for stomach pain, headaches, and fever, as it has a good effect on wound treatment and recovery. The  eason why Noni is so effective in various diseases is because it is rich in antioxidants such as “Scorpoletin” and “Progenonin.” These have a positive effect on cell regeneration and enhance immunity, thus having antiinflammatory, anti-cancer, antibacterial, anti-allergy, and analgesic effects. However, some Noni-processed products contain iron powder, so when taking noni, it is necessary to carefully consider the product and pay attention to heavy metals.

 Among the superfoods that are known to be a panacea, there may be foods that are not really suitable for you. You should take them after considering the nature of the food and your own constitution. Also, you should take a healthy dose because ingesting a larger amount does not mean you will get more nutrients. The Pharos encourages students at Kyonggi University to get better information about well-known superfoods.

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