Five Super Foods

The term super foods has been all over the news. Experts agree that these foods should be part of everyone's diet.  But, what are these super foods and how can they help you? Here are five of the top foods in that category and why eating them is important.

Super foods are categorized as those foods that provide a wealth of nutrients to your body. Each food provides more than their fair share of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber and other substances in one package. While there are many super foods on the market for you to try, these five are ones that you won’t want to pass on.

1. Broccoli – It is leafy and a little stinky when boiled fresh, but broccoli is the tops when it comes to providing a bevy of nutrients. Broccoli has been shown to reduce cancerous tumor production. It contains antioxidants called polyphenols which help reduce heart disease, cancer and boosts immunity. Eat it raw with fat free ranch dressing or cooked with a spray of lemon juice.

2. Salmon – This is not just any salmon but wild caught salmon. Grain fed salmon is hot these days because it is supposed to be healthier, but wild salmon contains more of the nutrients that your body needs. Salmon is a fatty cold water fish but it contains good fats. Omega-3 fatty acids are powerful in your diet. They are known to lower cholesterol and the risk of heart disease.

3. Blueberries – This super food has been mentioned on many lists. Blueberries are at the top of the pile when you talk about antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances in the body that fight the damage of free radicals. They help prevent certain cancers, reduce the signs of aging, boost immunity and improve overall health. Blueberries contain an antioxidant substance called anthocyanin which gives them their deep color. You can get a healthy dose of fiber and vitamin C from blueberries. So, throw them in that smoothie for a body boost.

4. Yogurt – The taste takes getting used to, but yogurt contains live cultures that help to regulate the digestive system. As you know, many diseases and ailments arise from the digestive tract getting out of balance. Yogurt contains useful good bacteria. These bacteria are probiotic substances because they provide nutrition for intestinal bacteria so that more are produced to protect the digestive system.

5. Soy – Soybeans provide a great source of protein and can be used as a substitute for animal proteins. Soy is a source of plant sterols that become a weak estrogen substitute for women going thought menopause to reduce the incidence of hot flashes. Soy products contribute to lower bad cholesterol levels in the body.

Want to boost your immunity, lose weight and feel better? Try eating super foods every day to improve your overall health.