5 Superfoods You Need
The awareness and consumption of superfoods is spreading in the US more than ever. With multiple studies proving the amazing heath benefits that superfoods provide, it’s no wonder why they are becoming famous. In case you are unaware, Superfoods are foods that are nutrient powerhouses that pack large doses of antioxidants, polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals. Eating these superfoods may reduce the risk of chronic disease, and prolong life. They are unlimited with positive health benefits and are also known as “cancer fighters”. One of their jobs is to protect the cells in our body from free radical damage that occurs daily that can be caused by stress, environmental pollutants, working out, processed foods and more. A sure way to make sure you are benefiting from these nutrient powerhouses is by consuming them daily. Here are 5 superfoods I want to bring to your attention and how you can use them in your diet…
Chia Seeds– These seeds sure are little, but they pack a big punch! The mighty chia seed is a powerhouse food, high in protein, fiber and the essential omega-3 fatty acid ALA (alpha-linoleic acid), as well as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, copper, iron, molybdenum, niacin, and zinc. Chia is super convenient as they can be added to most all foods. Enjoy chia seeds sprinkled over smoothies, on yogurt, in energy bars, or healthy salad. Chia seeds also absorb up to 12 times its own weight in water, adding just 1 tablespoon or so of chia seeds to your diet can reduce caloric intake and help lower the energy density (or calories) of foods. Another amazing quality about chis is the calcium content. These seeds deliver18% of your daily value per ounce, which is three times more than skim milk.
Matcha Green Tea– Another superfood that can be added to other foods, match tea comes in powder form as it is the actual green tea leaf stone ground into fine powder. This ensures that none of the antioxidants are harmed by an unnecessary heating processing. When drinking Matcha, One glass is the equivalent to 10 glasses of green tea, in terms of its nutritional value and antioxidant content.Matcha also contains a unique, potent class of antioxidant known as catechins, which aren’t found in other foods. In particular, the catechin EGCg (epigallocatechin gallate) provides potent cancer-fighting properties. Most importantly, EGCg and other catechins counteract the effects of free radicals from the likes of pollution, UV rays, radiation, and chemicals, which can lead to cell and DNA damage. Since over 60% of the catechins in Matcha are actually EGCg, a daily Matcha regimen can help restore and preserve the body’s well-being and balance. This powder can be used in homemade protein or energy bars, smoothies, yogurts, fruits and more
Coconut Oil- This amazing superfood does wonders for our immune system. Studies have shown that intake of coconut oil may help our bodies mount resistance to both viruses and bacteria that can cause illness. Even more, it also can help to fight off yeast, fungus and candida. Coconut oil can also positively affect our hormones for thyroid and blood-sugar control. A rich, sweet, coconut taste that is so good for your body. Another amazing benefit of coconut oil is the effect it has on cholesterol. Coconut oil has a saturated fat called lauric acid. It has been shown that lauric acid increases the good HDL cholesterol in the blood to help improve cholesterol ratio levels. Coconut oil lowers cholesterol by promoting its conversion to pregnenolone, a molecule that is a precursor to many of the hormones our bodies need. This is another superfood that can be added in smoothies, protein shakes, oatmeal and more.
Flax Seeds- Flax is one of the most powerful plant foods on the planet. Packed with Vitamin B, this superfood adds energy to your body and protection to your cells. What makes flax so special is the amount of lignans they carry. Lignans help protect against cancer by blocking enzymes that are involved in hormone metabolism and interfering with the growth and spread of tumor cells. The lignans in flaxseed provide some protection against cancers such as breast, colon and prostate. Flax also contains Omega-3 essential fatty acids, “good” fats that have been shown to have heart-healthy effects. Stacked with vitamins and antioxidants, Flaxseed contains 75 to 800 times more lignans than other plant foods, aiding in the protection again diseases.
Honey- A sweet superfood, also known as “liquid gold” honey is one of the most powerful foods, medicines and home remedies on the planet. Honey is a powerful immune system booster, its antioxidant and anti-bacterial properties can help improve digestive system and help you stay healthy and fight disease. Honey is also great for athletic performance; it’s known to boost immediate energy with natural sugars and also helps fight muscle fatigue during workouts. This liquid gold has been recognized as one of best natural home remedies to treat a wide range of ailments and complaints including yeast infection, athlete’s foot and arthritis pain. Its antiseptic properties inhibits the growth of certain bacteria and helps keep external wounds clean and free from infection.
These powerful superfoods need to be added to our daily nutrition if we want serious protection against diseases and amazing health benefits. Each one of these superfoods can be added to other foods making them even more convenient. They don’t have to be cooked or prepared; just toss them on or in your favorite clean food recipes. Best to be consumed Raw, to savor all the living antioxidant properties.
Let’s get healthy!
