The saying "You are what you eat," is a true statement. If you eat unhealthy, then you will be unhealthy. If you eat super foods, you will be super!
Super foods are foods that have the best health benefits. They are nutrient-rich, anti- oxidant and usually low in calories. With no nasty fats or sugars (but still just as tasty), we should be consuming more super foods and eating less junk.
Sometimes it's hard to find or buy some of the super foods, due to location, cost or seasonal availability, but here are 5 easy-to-eat, easy-to-find, everyday “super” foods:
1. Berries:
Berries are a great source of fiber, which is necessary for good digestion. They’re rich in nutrients, antioxidants and phytochemicals which may help prevent (and, in some cases, reverse) the effects of aging, cardiovascular disease, arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure and certain types of cancer.
2. Beans:
Eating beans, such as kidney beans have folate and fiber. They're also supercharged with antioxidants. Canned beans have the same amount of nutrients as dried but are higher in sodium. Look for canned beans with no added salt, and drain and rinse the beans.
Beans also have good iron content, but the body struggles to absorb this kind of iron, unlike meat. If you are vegan and relying on legumes for iron, eating lemon or something else high in vitamin C will help your body absorb it.
3. Oranges:
Oranges are packed full of goodness. It could even help with the prevention of cancer! An Australian study found that citrus could reduce the risk of stomach, mouth, larynx and pharynx cancers by 40 to 50 percent.
Oranges contain high amounts of a carotenoid called beta-cryptoxanthin. A 2003 study published in “Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers and Prevention” found that foods rich in beta-cryptoxanthin like oranges supported respiratory health and reduced the risk of lung cancer by 27%.
They're also great for the immune system, helping produce white blood cells and antibodies that fight off infections.
4. Tea:
There are lots of types of tea like green tea, chamomile and white tea. Less Studies have found that teas may help with cancer, heart disease, and diabetes; encourage weight loss; lower cholesterol; and bring about mental alertness. Tea also appears to have antimicrobial qualities. Another good thing about tea is less caffeine!
5. Yogurt:
The probiotics (beneficial bactera) in some yogurts balance the microflora in your gut, which can aid with digestion as well as keep you regular. It’s also rich in calcium, which helps stave off osteoporosis.
1 cup of yogurt provides almost half the recommended daily value of calcium and is rich in phosphorus, potassium, zinc, riboflavin, vitamin B12 and protein.