You have probably heard the term superfoods, but today we are going to break down what they are, what they do, and which ones are at the top of the list. These foods not only give you a great boost of energy and vitamins and nutrients that your body craves, but they also have anti-aging properties, they help prevent chronic diseases and help you feel overall…well…super!
What are Superfoods and What Do They Do?
We know we need to avoid processed foods, fast food and sugar, and we should be eating lots of fruits and veggies and high quality protein, but if you want to take your health to the next level then adding superfoods will do just that. The best way to describe superfoods is they are the foods that are most nutritionally dense. They are packed with the main vitamins we need to fight off diseases so that we can live a longer and much healthier life. They will fill you with energy and an overall sense of feeling really good. They support your body and they allow every system inside of you to function at the optimum level, which is something we all want. So if you have been feeling sluggish, weary, mentally foggy and weak, try adding a few of these superfoods to your diet.
Top 10 Superfoods
1. Blueberries
They are filled with anti-oxidants as well as vitamin C and K. They are delicious and easy to add to your diet. They are great in salads, smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal or simply and on-the-go snack. My kids love them and they are also delicious frozen!
2. Avocados
We love our avocados and we put them in just about everything. In fact, my wife even makes a chocolate mousse out of them! Avocados are full of all of the good fats, monounsaturated fats, and they are also packed with folate, vitamin C and K. And here is a fun fact for you, they have more potassium then bananas! They are many creative ways to enjoy avocados such as on toast, in salads, with eggs or in a sandwich. You can mix them in smoothies or in desserts. The options are endless with this fruit, and yes it is a fruit!
3. Sweet Potatoes
These root vegetables are high in vitamin A and C, potassium and manganese. One serving of sweet potatoes is packed with over 400% of your daily vitamin A requirement. This is important because vitamin A is responsible for healthy vision, inflammation and strengthening your immune system. They are also full of fiber and a are a healthy tool in maintaining blood pressure.
4. Almonds
Almonds are incredibly nutritious and are one of the best non-dairy sources of calcium. They are full of vitamin E and protein. The best kind to buy are raw. It very simple and quick to roast them yourself and there are many different flavors you can make them. Just remember to not have too much, because almonds are high in calories. Everything in moderation.
5. Kale
Kale is one of the best superfoods for weight loss while still contributing to being packed to the brim with vitamin A, C, K, calcium and manganese. It contains 9% of your daily calcium intake compared to milk which has 14%. Not too bad for a green vegetable huh! It also has vitamin E which is great for protecting the body from free radicals. Kale is easy to add to salads, smoothies, dinners and is great baked with olive oil and sea salt as kale chips.
6. Coconuts
Coconuts, coconut milk and coconut oil are known for being full of the good fats (chain triglycerides). This is very important for supporting a healthy gut, which we know when we have a healthy gut we have a healthy body. Coconuts give energy, and are helpful in weight loss and aiding people who struggle with diabetes. You can add organic unsweetened coconut flakes to cereal, granola, yogurt and oatmeal. You can use full fat coconut milk as a base for smoothies and using coconut oil to cook with is a great way to get a good serving of all those healthy fats are bodies need for fuel and wholeness.
7. Wild Caught Salmon
Salmon are high in omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation throughout the body. Omega-3s also support healthy glowing skin. Salmon boosts your brain health and keeps your heart healthy and strong. It is also good for lowering blood pressure and lowering your cholesterol. Try to sneak salmon in at least once a week whether for lunch on a salad or crackers or for dinner.
8. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is not just a warm spice that adds flavor to your dinners and baked goods, but it is also full of nutrients for your body. Cinnamon has the ability to lower inflammation, aid in PMS symptoms and nausea, it can lower blood sugar and cholesterol and it is high in antioxidants. Pretty unbelievable that all that is packed in this simple spice, and it is just as simple to add to your diet. Simply sprinkle over yogurt, toast or you can add it to your smoothies or in your coffee. It is a great super food to add to the beginning of your day.
9. Flaxseed
This small seed is filled with protein, thiamin, magnesium, phosphorous and manganese. They also have the ability to protect your body against cancer and diabetes, and they are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and improve brain function. The great thing about flaxseeds is that they can be easily added to meals, smoothies, and oatmeal. You can also take it as a capsule or consume flaxseed oil.
10. Raw Milk
Kefir made from raw milk is great for boosting the health of your gut. It is packed with probiotics that boost the good bacteria in your body. Raw milk is high in vitamins A and D, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. You can add raw milk or kefir to your smoothie in the morning for a great healthy start to your day.
Remember, everything is best in moderation. Consume this super foods with dense fruits and vegetables and lean proteins and you will be setting your body up for success. This is a great recipe to restore and heal your body from the inside out.
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