Just the word “superfoods” evokes power but what exactly are they and how do they improve our diet?
Scientifically speaking, there really isn’t a food group such as “superfoods.” This term has been used to describe foods that are rich in vitamins and nutrients that are essential for our health. Hence, “super.”
While incorporating superfoods into your diet could be beneficial and even life-changing, it is important to remember that no particular superfood is “super” enough to contain everything that you need on a daily basis.
With that said, you will have to include different superfoods in your diet to maximize their health benefits. Read on to find out about the best superfoods that you could include in your diet.
1. Nuts
Whether it be almonds, pecan, cashew, or macadamia, nuts are rich in protein and monounsaturated fats. These are essential if you want to lower your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Add nuts to your muesli, cereals, or oatmeal. You can also have them as snacks while you drive or while at the office, instead of reaching into a bag of chips.
2. Berries
Who does not love berries? These fruits are gifts from heaven. Not only do they taste great, but they are also great sources of fiber.
What’s wonderful about berries is that you can have them in a multitude of ways- you can add them to your yogurt fix, your cookies, or you can even blend them into a smoothie!
3. Fish
There’s a reason some people prefer to eat fish more than pork or beef. Fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids which also help prevent heart disease. The good thing is, it is not so hard to get our fish fix. We can go to the supermarket and have canned or frozen fish.
Better yet, we can explore the fish market to look for the freshest and tastiest fish available.
It is relatively easy to prepare fish as it only takes a few minutes to thoroughly cook it. Pan-sear or grill it and just add a little salt and pepper and you’re good to go!
4. Whole grains
Whole grains such as wheat bread, oatmeal, and brown rice are great for us. These provide the fiber that we need for healthy digestion. There are a lot of whole grains available in your local supermarket. Just look for the one that suits your taste.
You can spruce up your oatmeal by adding nuts or dried berries. If you’re bored with plain toast, add a little butter or avocado to your wheat bread. Really, there is no limit to what you can do with whole grains!
5. Yogurt
Thanks to the probiotics that abound in every cup of yogurt, it has been making quite a buzz lately. Probiotics are the good bacteria that our body needs to combat the harmful ones.
There are many yogurt stands that offer this delicious and creamy food in different ways- frozen, soft, or on top of a cookie. Make sure you get an order soon to enjoy the best bacteria that nature has to offer.
6. Green vegetables
There is a reason we were always told to eat our vegetables when we were young. Vegetables such as broccoli, kale, and Brussels sprouts are great for your health. These are rich in fiber and phytochemicals that fight cancer.
The good thing about these green vegetables is that you can include them in your stir-fried dishes. You can even sauté them in olive oil and add some garlic and mushroom. You also blend kale and add it to your daily smoothie!
