“Quinoa has magical powers,” & Other Myths About Superfoods

Artist extraordinaire James Grasdal is putting the finishing touches on the 13^th book in the Superman Duffy comic series—MYTHCONCEPTIONS. Which, you may have guessed has a little something to do with common “myths.” I love myths! So for this year’s A to Z Blogging Challenge, I’m going to “bust” as many of them as I can—every day (except Sundays) on the blog, throughout April.

Not familiar with the A to Z Challenge? Get the details here, and then hang on, because I’m about to blow your mind with my myth-inspired posts. P.S. Comment on the blogs throughout the month for a chance to WIN a complete set of the Superman Duffy comics, including lucky #13, MYTHCONCEPTIONS.

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MYTH: Quinoa has magical powers.

I like quinoa. My mom makes an amazing Greek salad and adds quinoa for extra protein and grains. And I get that it’s super healthy—but let’s be real, it’s not enchanted. It won’t make your hair grow back, save you from certain death, or give you Superman’s speed. (If that were true, I’d be eating it by the shovel full!)

Quinoa is just like the many other foods listed as “super”—it delivers a nutritious punch, but it’s not MAGICAL. Chia seeds, blueberries, Brazil nuts, seaweed (ew), kale and wheat grass may be delicious, and sure they’re good for you, but despite some increasingly common myths, they aren’t super heroes. I promise.

It’s not surprising that we believe these things, though. The media has done an amazing job of spreading the myths and some companies are really good at branding. Take a look at olive oil for instance—many people believe that it’s healthier than all other oils, including canola. That’s actually a myth, fed by some impressive marketing. The truth is, both canola and olive oil contain a number of  nutrients and have a role to play as part of a healthy diet.

Here are some other facts about “super” foods that the marketing industry may have led you astray on:

• Coconut water is not healthier than sports drinks.
• Although dark chocolate is more nutritious, it should be eaten in moderation—just like everything else. And, it doesn’t reduce stress. Sorry.
• There is currently no evidence to suggest a link between eating blueberries and improved memory.
• Although delicious, broccoli is not a cure for diabetes. (Too bad—my grandpa would eat it daily!)
• Garlic cannot prevent a common cold. It also can’t ward off vampires—in case you were wondering.
• Green tea doesn’t aid weight loss or prevent tooth decay. 

Bottom line? If you see a food labelled as “super” take it with a grain of salt, because the reality is, all natural foods are superfoods!

I’ve gotta jet, but the #AtoZChallenge continues tomorrow as I look at some more mind-boggling myths. What’s the most interesting thing you’re learned so far? Don’t forget to comment for a chance to WIN a whole setof the SupermanDuffy comics—there are 13 so far!  

~ Chase Superman Duffy