Superfoods are nutrient powerhouses which pack large doses of antioxidants, polyphenols, vitamins and minerals. Eating them may reduce the risk of chronic disease and prolong life.
Throughout the world, people are discovering superfoods which play an important role in giving your body the essential nutrients it needs, to be in tip top shape. From athletes to business execs, the health conscious are adding superfoods to their diet to improve endurance, recovery time and mental clarity.
Here is a list of ten favorite superfoods:
Acai Berry – This berry’s list of attributes includes a high level of antioxidant activity similar to cranberries, and higher than blueberries and strawberries. Acai reportedly have the highest antioxidant value (ORAC) among fruits and vegetables and are the only berries that contain measurable amounts of omega-3s.
Dragon Fruit (Pitaya) – Rich in antioxidants, they contain vitamin C (equivalent to ten percent of the daily recommended value), polyunsaturated (good) fatty acids, and several B vitamins. They also contain carotene, protein, calcium, iron and phosphorus (for healthy blood and tissue formation).
Cacao – Raw cacao contains nearly four times the antioxidant power of your average dark chocolate—more than twenty times than that of blueberries. Studies have shown that chocolate affects your emotions by raising serotonin levels, which explains why chocolate is often craved when gloominess looms.
Chia Seeds – Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fiber, this super seed contains 500% more calcium than milk and the same amount of omega-3s as wild salmon. Chia also has an appetite-suppressing quality, helping you feel full—ideal for your weight-loss regimen, especially for stress eaters!
Beet Juice – The rich color in beets comes from the cancer-fighting antioxidant and phytonutrient, betalain. Besides their liver-protecting qualities, beets also contain iron, which helps deliver oxygen throughout the body and fights anemia.
Ginger – Relieves digestive problems such as nausea and loss of appetite, and eases motion sickness and pain. It can be consumed fresh, dried as a spice, in oil form, or as juice.
Turmeric – This antioxidant, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory spice gives curry its distinctive taste. It’s a prominent medicinal tool in Ayurveda, the ancient medical tradition of India, where turmeric is widely used and the prevalence of the four most-common US cancers is ten times lower. Studies suggest that curcumin, the compound which gives turmeric its deep golden color, may protect against cancer and Alzheimer’s disease and also improve circulation, prevent blood clotting and tame a variety of pains.
Coconut Oil – A heart-healthy antioxidant that can help bolster your body against viruses and bacteria. It can also boost thyroid function and blood-sugar control, as well as aid with digestion, reduce cholesterol and keep weight balanced.
Kale – A member of the illustrious group of cancer-fighting cruciferous vegetables, kale is the most popular health food today. The deep, leafy green is super high in calcium, iron, Vitamin A, C, K and fiber.
Moringa Oleifera – Best known as an excellent source of nutrition and a natural energy booster. Also known to provide antioxidants, fight inflammation, slow signs of aging and protect the brain.
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