With March being declared National Nutrition Month, let’s put the spotlight on superfoods. They are packed with essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, protein, & fiber that help keep your body healthy.
Here’s a list of 10 superfoods foods that you should know about:
Oats: They are made from 100% whole grain and are rich in soluble fiber that helps lower cholesterol levels. The potential benefits of oats include improved heart health, blood sugar control, weight management, & youthful-appearing skin.
Eggs: The golden standard when it comes to high-quality protein, eggs also contain important antioxidants that help prevent age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness in people above the age of 50.
Nuts: They are packed with good fats and magnesium which improve heart heath. The antioxidants in nuts fight against the wear and tear of body caused by free radicals. A handful of nuts make for the ideal in-between-meals snack.
Sweet potatoes: They contain alpha and beta carotene which are converted by the body into vitamin A, an essential nutrient to keep your eyes, immune system, and bones healthy. Sweet potatoes also contain vitamin B6, vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, and other important minerals.
Broccoli: A green powerhouse packed with vitamins A, C, K, and folate; broccoli also stimulates the release of detoxifying enzymes that may thwart cancer.
Yogurt: Yogurt contains probiotics (good bacteria) that help keep your gut healthy. It also contains plenty of calcium, phosphorus, vitamin B12, and protein. Try to avoid flavored yogurt as it tends to contain a lot of added sugar.
Berries: They are a great source of fiber which is essential for a healthy digestive system and to keep your bowels moving properly. All types of berries are good for health, even the frozen ones that you can use to make smoothies in the winter when berries are not in season.
Salmon: They are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids which the body cannot produce and must be obtained from the foods you eat. Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce risk of heart disease, high cholesterol, and hypertension.
Kale: This wonder-leaf is packed with a slew of vitamin, minerals, and fiber. Kale supports your immune system and improves heart and eye health. It also has antioxidant properties that fight against cancer.
Coffee: As long as you are not loading it with cream and sugar, coffee can provide a lot of health benefits. It is the #1 source of antioxidants for most Americans and can protect against liver damage and type 2 diabetes.
These 10 super foods are readily available at your local supermarket or grocery store and can easily be made a part of your daily diet. If you have any more questions or feel you need dietary or digestion advice, please reach out to a GI Alliance specialist near you.
