Super foods refer to foods that have health-promoting properties such as reducing your risk of disease or improving any aspect of physical or emotional health. Superfoods are also nutrient rich and are packed with high levels of antioxidants, vitamins and other nutrients. Discover these amazing foods and incorporate them into your daily food intake so you can reap their health-promoting benefits.
Blueberries: These berries are packed with antioxidants and flavonoids. There is some evidence that blueberries protect our bodies from damage from free radicals, a factor in aging and cancer. Blueberries are also high in potassium and vitamin C, selenium and zinc, nutrients that enable our body to fight off viral and bacterial infections. There are even indications that they also have an anti-inflammatory effect.
Oats: Oats contain soluble fiber which helps lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. The high-fiber count helps keep you feeling fuller longer and increases energy levels which helps in weight control. Plus, one serving of oatmeal packs 4 grams of soluble fiber.
Fish: Fish contains omega 3 fatty acids, which can lower heart disease risk, help arthritis and may help with memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease. There is also evidence that omega 3 fatty acids reduce depression, as well. Omega-3s are most prevalent in fatty, cold-water fish such as salmon, herring, sardines and mackerel. Fish is also high in protein of high biologic value.
Green Tea: Green tea contains ECGC, which is a powerful antioxidant. Researchers in Spain and the United Kingdom have shown that ECGC can inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Green tea has also been shown to lower cholesterol. Plus, Green tea is a healthy non-caloric alternative to soda.
Yogurt: Yogurt helps support the immune system. It contains bacteria cultures like lactobacillus acidophilus which boosts the immune system and improves digestion. Yogurt is high in protein with 9 grams per 6-ounce serving, plus it contains several other essential nutrients found in dairy foods, like calcium, vitamin B-2, potassium and magnesium.
Spinach: Spinach is a good source of niacin and zinc, and it is a very good source of dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E (Alpha Tocopherol), vitamin K, thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B6, folate, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper and manganese. It is packed with nutrition providing a variety of nutrients. Plus, spinach tastes great raw in a salad or sautéed with garlic and olive oil.
