Five Everyday Superfoods

In today's society we are constantly being told about how many of the lesser known exotic foods have wonderful health benefits. However the trouble with many of them are that they're often overpriced and hard to source. This article takes a deeper look into some of the food we see in our lives everyday, available in shops big and small, up and down the country. In doing it so reveals some interesting health benefits of the food we have been consuming for generations.

Eggs

There is now evidence to prove that eating eggs in moderation will not give you high cholesterol as was previously thought. Eggs have stellar stats, full of high-quality proteins, essential minerals and vitamins, including vitamin B12 and folate. An egg is a compact package of nutrition that provides every vitamin except vitamin C. Eggs are also a rich source of vitamin K, one egg contains one-third of the daily recommended amount for women. Eggs are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health and normal body function.

Did you know? A single large egg offers six grams of protein and is only around 70 calories

Cabbage

Out of all the vegetables out there cabbage is one of the most impressive of the lot. It contain compounds called indoles, which have been shown to reduce the risk of cancer dramatically. Cabbage also stimulates the immune system, kills bacteria and viruses, and is a good blood purifier." And the red variety is even healthier containing a dose of anthocyanins, another powerful antioxidant with anticancer properties.

Did you Know? Eating cabbage more than once a week can cut men's colon cancer odds by 66 percent

Cauliflower

Cauliflower is a rich source of vitamin C, with 100g of cauliflower containing more vitamin C than 100g of oranges!. One cup of cooked cauliflower contains 154 percent of your daily vitamin C requirements. It also contains loads of other vitamins and minerals. Cauliflower is high in folate (62 μg per 100g – adults should aim for 400μg/day and even more (600μg/day) if pregnant). This vegetable contains a compound called sulforaphane. This substance is currently being studied for its ability to prevent cancer and the early results are promising the studies demonstrate sulforaphane is especially effective in helping to prevent breast cancer and has a positive impact on colon, liver, lung, and stomach cancers. Cauliflower also contains Allicin witch may reduce the chance of a stroke or heart disease.

Did you know? You can eat it raw, add it to salads, or use it in your cooking. Cauliflower can also be mashed for a healthier version of mashed potatoes

Spinach

Spinach contains a cross section of phytonutrients and antioxidants, including vitamins K, C, and E, beta-carotene, coenzyme Q10, folate, iron and the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin. This explains why it is so good for vision and bone health. It is also very good for digestion. Spinach eases constipation and protects the mucus lining of the stomach, so that you stay free of ulcers. As well as flushing out toxins from the colon. Cooking spinach actually increases its health benefits. Just half a cup of cooked spinach will give you three times as much nutrition as one cup of raw spinach.

Did you know? A half-cup provides more than five times your daily dose of vitamin K, which helps blood clot and builds strong bones

Nuts

Nuts contain healthy oils, fibre, vitamins, minerals, potent phytochemicals and the amino acid arginine. Walnuts are one of the best plant sources of protein. Nuts are rich in fibre, B vitamins, magnesium and antioxidants such as vitamin E. All nuts are beneficial for heart health, eating a handful of nuts five times a week reduces your risk of coronary heart disease. The downside to nuts is that they are high in calories. A quick handful of nuts could contain more than 100 calories. Portion control is key. Shelled nuts, slow you down because they take time to crack open.

Did you know? Chestnuts are by far the nut with the lowest fat and calories, chestnuts are rich in starchy carbohydrates and fibre

If you found this article helpful, informative or entertaining please follow and upvote, this ensures I am able provided quality content on a regular basis.