Superfoods – What They are, and Why You Should Eat Them

There has been a lot of buzz about “superfoods” for a while now, but exactly what are they?  Generally, a superfood is a food that has the ability to significantly reduce your risk of contracting certain diseases due to its nutrient content or protective abilities.  Some superfoods have even been shown to enhance mood, and there are people who even claim they have healing or curing effects.  This makes sense, as most of the foods known as superfoods contain a very high antioxidant level, and antioxidants are known to protect against cell damage and aid in cellular repair.

Many foods fit the qualification of having high antioxidant levels, including most dark colored fruits and vegetables, nuts, legumes, and fresh herbs.  There are some foods, however, that really pack a powerful nutrient punch, and these are the superfoods!

So without further delay, here is a list 5 of the most amazing foods on the planet!

1. Quinoa – Pronounced “keen-wa”, this grain is still not well known by the general public, but it is becoming readily available at many supermarkets.  It has been called the best grain you can eat, as it is high in protein and fiber, and it’s a great source of iron.  Quinoa is also a great source of zinc, vitamin E, and selenium.  It has been touted as a substance to help control your weight and lower your risk of heart disease and diabetes as well.

2. Blueberries – Very high in antioxidants and phytoflavinoids, blueberries’ benefits include a lower risk of heart disease and cancer, with the added benefit of being an anti-inflammatory.  These little gems pack an incredible amount of nutritional goodness into a small package. They’re also low in calories, and high in water and fiber to help control blood sugar and keep you full longer. And their flavors satisfy sweets cravings for a fraction of the calories in baked goods.

3. Beans – Loaded with insoluble fiber, which helps lower cholesterol, fills you up, and helps rid your body of waste, beans are a good, low-fat source of protein, carbohydrates (the good kind!), magnesium, and potassium.  Edamame (whole soybeans) are particularly good, as they contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health.  As with any food, non-GMO, organic is best whenever possible.

4. Sweet potatoes – These yummy, sweet treats are packed with vitamin A to help maintain strong bones and healthy skin and soft tissue.  Substituting a bakes sweet potato for a white potato will ensure you get a good dose of vitamin C, calcium, and potassium as well.  Of course if you drown your sweet potato in butter and/or sugar, you’ll offset some of the positive effects, so you might want to think about a naked baked sweet potato, which is still really delicious and much more interesting than a plain baked white potato. (By the way, other great orange vegetables to add to your diet include pumpkin, carrots, butternut squash, and orange bell peppers.)

5. Kiwis – No, not the bird. The fruit!  Known as one of the most nutritionally dense fruits you can eat, kiwis are full of antioxidants, with a single large kiwi supplying your full daily dose of vitamin C.  Kiwis also contain good amounts of potassium, vitamin A, vitamin E, and are great sources of fiber.  With as beautiful and delicious as these fruits are, adding them to your diet isn’t just great for your health, it’s a true pleasure!

So there you have it: Your primer on superfoods!  Want more information about how to maintain a healthy lifestyle?  Get in touch with our office today.  We want to talk about more than just your back!

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