30 Sep

Superfoods List

While there are many foods that contain benefits for a person’s health, certain foods are commonly referred to as “superfoods” because they contain multiple beneficial properties and are especially dense in nutrients. A superfood may be good for metabolism and weight loss, may help with digestion, may be good for the heart and blood pressure, may help to prevent disease and may even help to improve mood and concentration. Often, the items included on a superfoods list will boast a combination of these benefits.

So, without further ado, here is a list of seven popular, easily attainable super foods:

1. Beans

According to Dr. Perricone, who regularly appears on Oprah, “Beans are extremely beneficial in an anti-diabetes diet because they rank low on the glycemic scale…” meaning that they help to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. For anyone, diabetic or not, beans provide an excellent source of fiber and protein while remaining low in fat. Beans come in a variety of options, including: black, pinto, kidney, garbanzo, soy, navy and many more. They are found in the cooking of almost every culture around the world and are extremely versatile in their recipe options.

2. Yogurt

Yogurt contains naturally occurring probiotics, which are excellent for digestion and overall health. Yogurt also contains calcium, which is good for bones and may prevent the onset of osteoporosis, and contains protein, b-vitamins, potassium and magnesium.

3. Salmon

In 2002, the American Heart Association recommended eating 2 servings of fish per week. Salmon is relatively low in fat when compared to most meats, and is an excellent source of protein and fatty acids. Canned salmon is an inexpensive alternative when fresh salmon isn’t in the budget or widely available.

4. Broccoli

This green vegetable is an excellent source of calcium, vitamins a and c and fiber, which aids in digestion and weight loss. Eating a variety of green vegetables is believed to keep your heart healthy and aid in cancer prevention.

5. Dark Chocolate

The cocoa found in dark chocolate is an excellent source of antioxidants and caffeine, which can stimulate endorphins and improve mood as well as concentration.

6. Green tea

It is widely known that green tea has powerful antioxidants and naturally occurring caffeine, which, like chocolate, aids in energy and concentration. Some studies have also shown that people who drank green tea lost more weight than their counterparts who followed the same diet but did not drink green tea.

7. Avocados

This nutrient dense fruit is delicious as well as good for you! Avocados contain the healthy, monosaturated fats, which are known to promote “good” cholesterol. They are also high in fiber and contain potassium and magnesium.

While superfoods are often recognized for being packed with the above benefits, it is still advisable to include them in an overall balanced diet, which includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and proteins.

In addition to being healthy, these foods are delicious and easy to prepare and enjoy. Best of all, the items on this superfoods list are readily available in the aisles of a store near you.