6 Superfoods and why you need them
Posted on 10 January 2017
Want to take your diet to the next level? If so, it’s a smart move to take a look at some of the top superfoods that you can be including.
Superfoods are as the name suggests, foods that contain nearly ‘super’ powers. They are so loaded with nutrients and offer so many health benefits, they stand out from the rest.
Let me share with you today my top six superfood choices that you can use to get your diet started off on track.
1. Oats
Rich in soluble fiber and a very hearty source of complex carbohydrates, oats are one food that won’t quit. They’ll keep you feeling energized for hours ahead and provided you aren’t adding anything to them, they contain absolutely no sugar.
Eating oatmeal each day is associated with lower cholesterol levels, so this is a fantastic heart-health boosting food.
Need a way to liven up your regular plain oats? Try adding a dash of cinnamon or some fresh berries on top. Berries are another extremely healthy food, so this will really boost the overall nutritional content of the dish as well.
2. Broccoli
Next on the list is broccoli. Broccoli is very high in antioxidants and can act as a detoxifier to the body, helping you eliminate potentially harmful waste materials.
Broccoli is also very high in dietary fiber, so can help stabilize blood glucose levels, bring down cholesterol, and help you ward off diabetes.
It should be a big part of everyone’s diet plan.
3. Kale
Moving on, don’t overlook kale. Rated as one of the top nutrient dense foods you can consume, kale is loaded with vitamins and minerals. You’ll get a hearty dose of vitamin K (which is critical for blood clotting), vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, as well as iron and magnesium.
While kale generally tastes best cooked, it can also be used raw in a salad as well. It’s another vegetable that’s so low in calories, it’s a must-add to any diet plan.
4. Grapefruit
Grapefruits are an often overlooked fruit, but one that you’ll want to start adding to your diet more often. Unlike oranges, the fruit that most people choose, grapefruit are relatively low in sugar content, thus they keep your blood glucose levels better stabilized.
If you are hoping to ward off diabetes, grapefruits are a perfect choice. In addition to that, grapefruits are also loaded with vitamin C, which is important for strengthening your immune system and warding off oxidative damage.
5. Beans
Want a protein source that will lower your cholesterol rather than raise it? Try beans. This complex carbohydrate offers a nice balance of protein and carbs and in addition to that, also provides a good dose of dietary fiber as well.
Beans will work wonders to lower your cholesterol level, so are a perfect heart-healthy food. In addition to that, they can also assist with the lowering of inflammation taking place in your body as well.
6. Avocado
Finally, don’t overlook the avocado. Rich in healthy fats, this food will keep blood glucose levels stable as well while also helping lower your overall hunger. This is due to the healthy fat and fiber combnation it has to offer.
Avocado is also very rich in Vitamin E, which is a key antioxidant that will help keep your immune system strong while also improving the health of your skin, hair, and nails.
So don’t overlook these six foods. Are they in your daily diet? If not, it’s time to make them a part of your menu.
Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
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