The term “superfoods” has become very popular in recent years to describe foods that can improve health, but do you know which foods actually provide great health benefits? Superfoods are typically high in antioxidants, which prevent oxidization, damage from free radicals in the body, prevent damage to the healthy cells in the body. Here are some superfoods that not only provide health benefits, but also taste great.
Blueberries
Blueberries are loaded with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C. The fiber helps to normalize bowel movements, control blood sugar levels, and lower cholesterol, while the antioxidants help fight against certain cancers, asthma, heart disease, and age-related neurological diseases.
Blueberries can be eaten plain or added to yogurt or oatmeal. They are easy to freeze, so they are great to always keep on hand and add to any meal that seems fitting. You only need to eat about 1/4 cup each day to get the health benefits of blueberries.
Black Tea
Black tea has a lot of antioxidants and is calorie-free. The tea can work to lower blood pressure, prevent osteoporosis, promote heart health, lower the risk for stroke, and add to your hydration for the day.
With all of these health benefits, this superfood can be brewed for about three minutes and then enjoyed either cold or hot. You can drink as much of this as you would like, keeping the caffeine in mind.
Spinach
Spinach contains a lot of protein, folic acid, vitamins A and K, and fiber. It strengthens the heart, protects against memory loss due to age, and is great for pregnant women, as its folic acid helps with the development of unborn babies.
Spinach is beneficial to you health weather it is cooked or raw, so you can either add it to your salad or cook it in a spinach lasagna. About one cup of spinach per day is beneficial for your health.
Bananas
Bananas are filled with antioxidants, carbohydrates, vitamin B6, and potassium. This creates a perfect food to eat for refueling the body throughout exercising. Bananas also protect the body’s cell against free radical damage that leads to heart disease and certain cancers. It also helps to promote healthy hair and skin, and lower blood pressure. They are best eaten ripe to get all of their health benefits.
Walnuts
Walnuts have the most antioxidants out of any type of nut, and they are also full of vitamin E. They are potent in omega 3 oils and plant serums, and have a high ratio of healthy fats. The vitamin E in walnuts is especially good for heart health, while the serums and oils lower cholesterol. Additionally, walnuts help guard against depression and diabetes.
If you do not enjoy snacking on raw walnuts, sprinkle some crushed walnuts nuts on top of a salad or a dinner entree for some extra crunch. You do not need to eat a lot of walnuts, as they are high in fat, so only about 4-8 each day will provide you with the health benefits you need.
Kiwi
Kiwi is one of the most nutritionally dense fruits, is full of antioxidants, as well as fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and E. Kiwis neutralize free radical damage and reduce inflammation. They also help to reduce the chances of developing colon cancer and asthma, and lower triglycerides levels, which promotes heart health. Kiwis can be eaten plain or added to any dish you are already eating.