There are several diets/fads out there and many great foods with great properties in helping you get and stay healthy. These ten are called super foods and should be a part of any diet. These foods are high in phytochemicals, anti-oxidants and nutrients. If you are trying to lose weight or recover from
illness or injury adding these foods will speed up the process.
Fruits:
1. Cantaloupe/Muskmelon
Cantaloupes have significant amounts of Vitamins A, C and beta-carotene. They are a good source of potassium, and contain small amounts of many other minerals. The rind is rich in nutrients so the whole melon may be juiced. It is also low in calories.
2. Apples
Apples contain high levels of pectin. Pectin is a type of fiber that when ingested helps flush out your digestive system. Apples also help sustain blood sugar levels for a long period of time.
3. Grapefruit
Grapefruits are exceptionally high in galacturonic acid (main ingredient in pectin) and in Vitamin C. It contains phytonutrients such as liminoids and lycopene for healthy cell growth and is about 34 calories per serving.
Vegetables:
4. Asparagus
Asparagus contains a phytochemical called asparagines. It is an alkaloid that can interact positively with your body’s cells. This helps keeps the body alkaline which is vitally important in reducing disease processes and inflammation. It will also help clean the digestive system and promote fluid balance.
5. Broccoli
Broccoli is high in Calcium and Vitamin C. It is good for alkalizing the body and contains high levels of fiber and antioxidants making broccoli the super hero among the super foods.
Carbohydrates:
6. Oatmeal
High in soluble fiber providing sustained energy and helps you feel fuller longer.
7. Sweet potatoes/Yams
Same family but not exactly the same vegetable. They both contain high levels of caretenoids which have high antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help protect cells against free radicals that are formed through metabolism and increased with exercise.
8. Brown Rice
Brown rice has 3x the fiber content of white rice. It is an excellent source of manganese, magnesium, selenium and B vitamins. Try to get a 1/2 cup of brown rice each day.
Protein:
9. Eggs
There has been a myth about eggs for many years. People avoid them because they are afraid of the cholesterol. In truth eggs contain high levels of lecithin which emulsifies cholesterol and fat. Eggs are the perfect protein, providing about 6 grams per egg. Egg whites are good but don’t be afraid of using the whole egg. Choose organic, free-range eggs that are fed high amounts of healthy fats. (Omega-3’s)
10. Fish
In particular sardines. Fish are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fats are essential for balancing the cholesterol levels, strengthening the nervous and cardiovascular systems and decreasing risk of depression. Sardines are low on the food chain which makes them the best choice because they will contain less pollutants as compared to predator fish.
