The Power Of Superfoods
Superfoods simply refer to extremely nutritious and healthy foods that increase your longevity and vitality by providing your body with all necessary nutrients and eliminating any health problems/diseases. Most of the foods we eat today aren’t superfoods. Pizza, hamburgers, fried chicken, fries, sodas, tacos, burritos among other popular fast foods aren’t superfoods.
Fast foods are unhealthy. They don’t increase longevity and vitality. Unfortunately, fast foods are very popular in today’s society. To counter the effects of fast foods among other processed and unnatural foods, it is important to consume high quantities of superfoods. If your diet has been dominated by unhealthy foods, below are some turbo charged morsels that you must start eating today.
1. Blueberries:
Most people don’t know that blueberries are packed with phytoflavinoids and antioxidants. Blueberries are among the best antioxidants known to man. Blueberries are also rich in vitamin C and potassium. They are among the most nutritious fruits according to nutritionists and health experts. Eating blueberries regularly helps you lower your risks of getting cancer and heart diseases.
Blueberries have also been proven to have anti-inflammatory properties. It is important to note that inflammation is one of the main causes of chronic diseases. Blueberries are examples of superfoods that must be eaten regularly i.e. three or more times weekly because of their numerous benefits. It is important to note that the color of blueberries dictates the quantity of antioxidants. You should therefore go for blueberries with strong/bright color to get more antioxidants.
2. Fish:
This is also another example of a superfood. Fish rich in Omega 3′s are examples of superfoods for the brain, heart and joints. Omega 3 which is common in fish oil has been proven to lower risks of contracting heart diseases and arthritis. Omega 3 also helps to boost memory and prevent/cure diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Omega 3 has also been proven to reduce depression. Omega 3 is common in fatty fish found in cold water. Examples of fish that will provide you with adequate amounts of Omega 3 include; wild salmon, sardines, herring and mackerel. To benefit from fish as a superfood, you should include the above types of fish at least twice in your weekly diet. Fish is also beneficial because of high quantities of monounsaturated fats, which are healthy in terms of lowering cholesterol levels.
3. Fiber foods:
Examples of foods rich in fiber include; whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Fiber is a superfood for weight loss and lowering cholesterol levels. High fiber diets will help you maintain healthy cholesterol levels as well as help you lose weight. Fiber foods can also help you maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Fiber foods help in weight management by filling up your stomach thus you feel hungry less often.
4. Soy:
This is also another example of a superfood for lowering cholesterol. Soy fiber has been proven to lower cholesterol levels. Soy is in fact one of the most widely prescribed foods for lowering cholesterol levels. If you happen to have high cholesterol levels, soy fiber is one of the most highly recommendable superfood for you.
5. Tea:
Contrary to many people’s believes, tea is indeed a superfood. Tea has shown to inhibit cancer and lower cholesterol levels. Tea is also an antioxidant, especially black and green tea because they contains high amounts of ECGC which is a very powerful antioxidant. According to numerous studies, ECGC has been proven to inhibit growth of cancerous cells. To enjoy tea as a super food for inhibiting cancer and lowering cholesterol, it is advisable to take black or green tea at least once daily.
6. Calcium:
Dairy products are rich sources of calcium. You can also get calcium from health supplements. Calcium is a superfood for building healthy strong bones and preventing osteoporosis. Some studies also indicate that Calcium helps in weight loss. It is important to note that Calcium intake should be regulated for maximum benefits. The recommended daily intake for individuals aged between 9 and 18 is 1,300 mg. Individuals aged between 19 and 50 should take 1,000 mg per day. Individuals above 50 should take 1,200 mg per day. It is important to note that excess calcium intake can cause medical conditions such as; hypercalcemia. Calcium intake should therefore be regulated to reap the maximum superfood benefit.
