superfoods
Diets that are rich in superfoods can provide many benefits throughout different stages of our lives. By knowing which foods are more potent in their nutritional value, you can ensure that you move through life feeling energetic and resisting various illnesses.
Blueberries
Blueberries are especially great at staving off illnesses because they contain antioxidants to prevent diseases such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes. Blueberries can also benefit your mind. A study published in The Journal of Neuroscience found that they can resist age-related decrease in motor and neural skills, improving balance and coordination.
Beans
Along with containing high amounts of protein and calcium, beans also have fibre. This is important to keep the intestines in healthy shape. Research has found that people who consume dry beans such as pinto beans and lentils have a much lower risk of developing colon cancer. Other fibre-rich superfoods include sweet potatoes and steel-cut oats.
Salmon
Salmon is a must to consume a few times a week because its omega-3 content combats heart disease. Salmon and other cold water fish have been said to slow down the progression of age-related macular degeneration, an eye condition that is regarded as the leading cause of vision loss in Americans aged 65 and older.
Coconut Oil
Since our metabolism slows down as we age, resisting weight gain and obesity is important through positive dietary choices. This can help prevent illnesses such as Type 2 diabetes that is more common in people with excess weight around their mid-section. Coconut oil contains healthy fats that help to keep your weight balanced. It’s therefore a good substitute for butter.
Kale
Its high omega-3 fatty acids can help to prevent arthritis and auto-immune disorders because it is an anti-inflammatory food. Its deep color reveals its high concentration of nutrients.
Eggs
When it comes to cholesterol levels, eggs are used to getting a bad reputation, but they can actually benefit your body because they create HDL or ‘good’ cholesterol. The body needs good cholesterol for metabolic processes.
Olive Oil
It has been said that we should consume at least one tablespoon of olive oil every day. This ingredient can both prevent and ease osteoporosis. It can ease pain because of its polyphenols that turn into anti-inflammatory agents when consumed.
Chia Seeds
A superfood of note, chia seeds contain many nutrients the body needs, such as antioxidants and calcium. In approximately two ounces of chia seeds, you’ll find 600mg of calcium, which is five times the amount in the same quantity of milk!
Pomegranate
A contributing factor in heart disease is the increase of plaque in arteries. To keep your arteries healthy, consume pomegranates as they clear away plaque build-up.
Tea
There are various benefits of tea, but one of the most interesting is how white tea can fight off signs of aging, thanks to its antioxidant-rich nature.
Pumpkins
Since they’re high in potassium, pumpkins are a must to consume to keep your
heart healthy – potassium lowers blood pressure. Pumpkin seeds are also good to eat: they’re rich in phytosterols, a chemical that can lower your bad cholesterol.
Flaxseed
A trendy superfood, flaxseed is definitely health and not hype! It contains fibre to keep your cholesterol low and maintain healthy blood sugar.
Acai Juice
This berry juice can be very healthy, as long as you choose a product that doesn’t contain high amounts of sugar. A Texas 2008 study found that antioxidants in both acai berry pulp and juice can be absorbed by the body efficiently. These antioxidants protect the immune system from free radicals.
Walnuts
A handful of walnuts a day is all you need to keep your heart healthy. Walnuts contain an amino acid called l-arginine, which is especially good for people who already have heart disease or are at a higher risk of getting it.
Spinach
A stronger immune system is a must to help you fight off infections, and just one cup of spinach can achieve that. Spinach contains over a dozen flavonoid compounds that offer anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer benefits.
Avocados
Not just packed with omega-3 fatty acids, avocados also help your body absorb nutrients. Add them to your diet so that you benefit from all the vitamins you consume!
If maintaining a diet sounds difficult or strenuous, consider a personalized care program to help you stay healthy. Superfoods such as the above provide many physical and mental health benefits, allowing you to realize the truth: age doesn’t have to be anything more than a number!