Are these 10 superfoods really that good for you?

With so many food fads around, it’s hard to know what will really give your health a boost. We take a look at the latest trends to sort the facts from the fiction…

Did you know eating a bacon buttie can knock half an hour off your life expectancy?

Before you reach for that healthy green salad in a bid to add those 30 minutes back on, let us take a look at what the healthier option really is.

With so many foods claiming superhero status, there’s now a new law banning the use of the word superfood on packaging – unless it can be backed up by hard evidence. Here, we’ve separated the wheat from the chaff…

1. Coconut oil

Coconut oil has been hailed as a weight loss ally

What is it? Despite containing over 90% saturated fat, coconut oil has been hailed as the latest weight-loss ally.

Food facts: "Studies show that coconut helps increase calorie burning and can aid weight loss when consumed in moderation," says nutritionist Kim Pearson. It contains lauric acid, which is known for killing harmful bacteria. It can also be used on skin and hair too. So we’re going to be slim with shiny hair and good skin? Sold.

Verdict: Super

2. Matcha powder

Matcha contains high levels of anti-ageing antioxidants

What is it? The antioxidant health benefits of drinking green tea are widely known – but the ground down version, matcha, is new on the block.

Food facts: "Research shows that matcha is 137 times higher in the health-promoting and anti-ageing antioxidants found in other green teas, plus it’s a great energy booster," says Kim.

It contains caffeine and an amino acid called L-theanine that increases brain wave activity. But at £25 for 100g, you’ve got to really want those antioxidants for it to be worth it.

Verdict: Super expensive

3. Kale

What is it? If you’re the sort of person who likes to carry the latest ‘IT’ bag, you’ll have spotted this on fashionable menus everywhere.

Foodies reckon this dark leafy green packs a powerful nutritional punch, with high levels of iron, calcium, vitamins K, A and C – there are even claims it can reduce the signs of ageing.

Food facts: Kale can have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body, and the high fibre content helps to rev up your metabolism.

"It’s rich in vitamin C and magnesium, and the main advantage is it’s great value compared to other so-called superfoods," says The Food Doctor Ian Marber.

There’s loads of ways to eat it too, from salads to kale chips. But keep in mind that iron from kale is not absorbed as easily as iron from meat.

Verdict: Semi super

4. Agave syrup

Agave syrup has long been used as an alternative to sugar

What is it? Once hailed as the sweetener to save us from our sugary sins, agave syrup’s low glycemic index (glucose level) supposedly means that it will prevent your blood sugar levels from spiking – stopping you reaching for unhealthy snacks.

The syrup has been used for thousands of years in Mexico, and has been marketed as a healthy alternative to sugar in baking and hot drinks.

Food facts: Recent studies have suggested that agave may actually play havoc with your metabolism, as it’s a form of over-processed syrup.

"Agave contains fructose," says Ian, "which is the same natural fruit sugar found in juices and honey." Unlike glucose or sucrose, fructose is only metabolised by the liver, and is quickly turned into fat by the body.

Verdict: Not so super

5. Quinoa

Quinoa is a good addition to any diet

What is it? Quinoa has soared in popularity in recent years, with the health conscious swapping their rice or couscous for this fluffy little grain-like seed. It’s reported to have anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-cancer and antidepressant effects.

Food facts: "Quinoa contains amino acids as well as fibre and nutrients, so it’s a good addition to any diet," says Ian. NASA scientists searching for the perfect food for long-term space missions declared quinoa to be unbeatable in its nutritional value.

"It’s naturally gluten-free and a rich source of protein, so it’s good for vegans and vegetarians," says healthy eating expert Amelia Freer. But the high fibre content may cause digestive problems for some.

Verdict: Super

The superfoods you may already have in your kitchen

6. Fresh Tomatoes

Cooked tomatoes contain an easily absorbable form of the antioxidant lycopene, which is important for reviving sun-damaged skin. Who knew a bowl of tomato soup could be the cure for sunburn?

7. Broccoli is one superfood you can rely on without breaking the bank. This humble staple is packed full of fibre, calcium, iron and vitamins C and A.

8. Blackberries contain high-levels of vitamin C, which is vital for collagen production. Eat plenty of these sweet treats to plump up your skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

9. Garlic releases anti-bacterial photochemicals when crushed, useful for fighting off colds and treating acne.

10. Turmeric can be used to treat anything from heartburn, stomach complaints, memory loss and diabetes. "This spice is more of a medicine in my mind," says Amelia.