Superfoods 101: Black Garlic and Other Supplements

In the latest UPWr podcast 'It’s in our nature', host Jowita Chojcan talks to Professor Adam Figiel, an expert in food engineering, and Dr Nesa Dibagar, who specialises in nutrition, food science and by-product valorisation. The discussion focuses on the value of international collaborations in research, different cultural perspectives in research and the impact of diet on health using the example of the health benefits of apples and the transformative process of producing black garlic, a superfood with numerous health benefits. The conversation highlights researchers' research efforts in creating new health products, such as drops that combine black garlic with other beneficial extracts. The researchers believe that these drops, when combined with a fruit-rich diet, can boost immunity and possibly reduce the number of colds. The drops, enriched with black garlic and vitamin C, are still under development, with ambitions for commercialisation. The importance of eating fruit with the peel for additional health benefits and the future of food engineering in enhancing the nutritional value of food products are also discussed.Black garlic, which is actually fresh garlic ripened in controlled temperature and humidity, offers a number of health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants and contains a compound called S-allilocysteine (SAC), which is not found in fresh garlic. The increased levels of SAC in black garlic are associated with a range of health benefits, including the potential to lower cholesterol and blood pressure, protect against heart disease, boost immune function and anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Black garlic also has a sweeter, milder flavour compared to fresh garlic, making it a more versatile ingredient in culinary applications, while providing health benefits without the strong smell and taste associated with fresh garlic.Superfoods are foods - usually plant-based, but also some fish and dairy - considered to be nutrient-dense and therefore good for health. Consuming superfoods has various health benefits, such as preventing heart disease, improving energy and mental health, weight loss and prolonging life. However, there are no standard criteria or legal definitions to classify them in this way. Popular superfoods include berries, green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, green tea and ancient cereals, each of which provide a range of essential nutrients such as antioxidants, healthy fats, fibre and phytochemicals beneficial for maintaining and improving overall health.