by: Tanya Parker
Optimal health starts with what you put into your body, because food is fuel. Just like you put good fuel in your car, the same can be done for your body. Super foods are that ideal food source.
There are many super foods that optimize your health, due to their many nutrients, and antioxidants. Some of these are thought to ward off cancer. The super foods can be eaten whole, or blended into smoothies. check out my free smoothie recipes! https://fitt365.ca/fitness/129-2/. To make things simpler, there are also whole food protein shakes, available for purchase. If you want to lose weight, check out the 21 day smoothie diet, https://smoothiediet.com/program/?hop=fitt365!
Popular super foods:
1. Berries
Berries are a top super food, because they are filled with vitamins, soluble fiber, and phytochemicals. These phytochemicals are known as flavonoids. Which may reduce the risk of certain heart conditions.
2. Dark Vegetables
There are many nutrients in dark vegetables, such as kale, swiss chard and spinach. As well as collards, mustards, cabbage and broccoli. Some off these nutrients are; Vitamins A, C, and K. Also contained in these vegetables, are fiber and other minerals. These nutrients are also present in sweet potatoes and squash.
Vitamins in Dark Vegetables:
- No categories
Being a fat soluble vitamin, vitamin A is stored in the body’s cells. The kidneys excrete any non fat soluble vitamins. The reason is, because too much vitamin A, and other fat soluble vitamins, can be toxic. This vitamin also improves the immune system and vision. Mucus membranes, bones, skin and teeth, are also all affected by vitamin A.
Vitamin c is an antioxidant, and also part of an enzyme needed, for protein metabolism. It strengthens the immune system, and assists in iron absorption.
Vitamin K is important for helping your blood clot, which prevents excess bleeding.
3. Nuts
Nuts contain high amounts of minerals, and healthy fats. There for, controlling portions is necessary, due to the high amount of calories, contained in them.
4. Beans
Beans are an excellent source of low fat protein. They also contain contain insoluble fiber, which lowers cholesterol. Beans are also full of soluble fiber, as well as vitamins and trace minerals. One of these minerals is manganese, which is good for the body, but only in small amounts. Manganese assists in metabolizing amino acids, cholesterol, glucose, and carbohydrates. It is also necessary for bone formation, blood clotting and reducing inflammation.
5. Whole Grains
Whole grains have benefits similar to beans. Their nutrient containing bran, has not been stripped. Quinoa is my personal favorite! This is because it packs a large amount of protein. It also is due to, it being a great source of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
6. Fatty Fish
Fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel, contain omega 3 fatty acids. Lowering heart disease and stroke, and assisting in brain health, are possible benefits.
7. Avocado
Avocado is another personal favorite of mine, because it possibly prevents cancer. At 300 calories, portions are important. A good amount to eat, is one quarter of an avocado. I will write more in depth, about this delicious food, in a future article.
In conclusion, super foods are a very powerful medicine, but everything should be taken in moderation. Even healthy food contains calories. Because of this, a balanced diet, consisting of mostly green foods, is best.
TLP