A ‘superfood’ is a food that offers a number of health benefits to the person eating it. You’ll often see that they are touted for decreasing the risk of heart disease, cancer, inflammation, and even aging. Essentially, most plants—particularly fruits and vegetables—are superfoods because they are high in phytochemicals or plant chemicals that provide protective benefit.
7 Powerful Superfoods That Can Alter Your Health In Short Span Of Time
Salmon
One of the best natural sources of omega 3 fats, thought to be helpful in keeping your heart healthy. Omega 3s are also often low in the American diet and it’s thought that low levels might contribute to inflammation in the body, which is a marker for many chronic diseases. Salmon is an excellent source of vitamin D, which many New Englanders are deficient in, particularly during winter months.
Almonds
Raw almonds can benefit your weight, mood, heart, bone, nervous system, and digestive health. They’re a great source of easy-to-digest protein with 7 grams per 1/4 cup and they contain B vitamins, magnesium and potassium to benefit your mood and blood sugar levels. Almonds also contain calcium to boost bone health and biotin to keep your hair, skin and nails healthy. Their mono-unsaturated fats are also some of the best to promote a satiated belly and a lean body naturally.
Blackberries
Blackberries don’t get enough stardom most of the time. These berries pack more antioxidants, fiber, and nutrients than blueberries, not to mention their seeds are actually rich sources of omega-3 fats. They’re also lower in sugar and lower in calories. While blueberries are powerful little berries (as all berries are), blackberries belong in your menus a little more often than they might be appearing. Add a cup of blackberries to your next smoothie and see how awesome they make you feel!
Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts are “a cruciferous vegetable that offers up a unique set of cancer-fighting properties and helps our body’s natural detox system to function properly,They are a good source of over 12 different nutrients, including folate, vitamin K and vitamin C.
Onions
Onions contain cancer-reducing antioxidants, one of which is known as quercetin that also reduces allergies. Onions also contain prebiotics to nourish good bacteria in the digestive tract, enhance liver health, and they contain potassium to lower your blood pressure and eliminate excess water weight. Best of all, onions are very flavorful so they can be added to a dish to up the taste factor without the need for salt, sugar, and additives. Try using onions in more of your cooked dishes in place of salty seasonings and unhealthy add-ins. Onions’ astringent flavor can also reduce sugar cravings and their B vitamins improve brain and metabolic health.
Coconut
Coconut contains some of the most unique saturated fatty acids out there. We should not be avoiding these! Saturated fats from coconuts are some of the best fats for the brain, muscles, and have not been shown to raise cholesterol levels. Coconut also contains amino acids (protein) and a whopping dose of fiber to lower blood sugar. If you crave sugar, have a tablespoon of raw coconut butter and see how much better you feel. The fats change the way your brain functions and lower cravings for unhealthy foods. Best of all, coconut contains anti-bacterial properties that fight yeast and fungi to promote a healthy digestive and immune system function.
Yogurt
Perfect for midafternoon snack or after a workout. It’s naturally balanced, containing a little carb, which will provide your brain with fuel, while also providing a little protein. It’s also a good source of calcium. In addition, it contains probiotic cultures, which are thought to keep your immune system healthy. I recommend that people buy plain yogurt and then add in fruit to sweeten it up.
Reference:
huffingtonpost.com, onegreenplanet.org, boston.com
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