What superfoods we should start to consuming to improve our health?, To answer this question, the first thing is to know what are called “superfoods” and why they produce health benefits.
Superfoods are a group of natural foods rich in nutrients that, really, are the kit to us by nature. But if it is true that there are certain foods with actually beneficial to our health and to help prevent disease, we must not forget that no food in isolation will provide those benefits, this effect only achieve a healthy and balanced diet that integrates these foods known as superfoods.
What follows will list the main considered superfoods and benefits that we provide
Apples: Apples are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, also contain a soluble fiber called pectin that helps reduce cholesterol levels in the blood and maintain a healthy digestive system. Due to its slow absorption in the intestine, helps maintain stable levels of blood glucose, so that food is a highly recommended for diabetics.
Olive oil: Olive oil is the “king” of the foods of the Mediterranean diet because it has high antioxidants and monounsaturated fats, so lauded in the prevention of cardiovascular disease by countless studies. Olive oil also has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Ginger: Ginger is composed of several volatile oils that give it its characteristic flavor and odor; zingerone, shogaols, and gingerols. These oils are powerful anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic agents. Also inhibit the formation of cancer cells while activating the innate ability of our own body to destroy cancer cells before they appear. (For more on this superfood: The super herbal power of ginger)
Broccoli: Broccoli is a food that contains many components that protect our health: sulforaphane, a proven cancer fighter, lutein, which protects against cataracts, vitamin C and vitamin A, and folic acid. Besides broccoli has very few calories. (To know more about the broccoli in: Is broccoli the magic food? ).
Oily fish: blue fish, such as salmon or sardines, are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids that contribute to overall health by protecting against heart disease and some cancers. In addition, Omega-3 fatty acids fight inflammatory diseases and depression.
Legumes: Legumes are an excellent source of fiber, helps lower cholesterol and eliminate waste from our body. In addition we provide proteins with low fat content. The Dietary Guidelines recommend U.S. consume 3 cups per week.
Brown rice: brown rice starch stimulates metabolism and helps burn fat. Besides brown rice gives us a lot of energy but low in calories. The brown rice gives us fiber, antioxidants, magnesium, beneficial to the nervous and reproductive systems, and selenium, which reduces the risk of heart disease and arthritis.
Wild blueberries: according to recent research, blueberries not only help prevent memory loss, also can improve motor skills and help lower blood pressure. Another reason to consume them is that they are rich in antioxidants that help fight wrinkles.
Spinach: Green leaf spinach is packed with vitamins A, C and K, and lutein, a nutrient essential for eye health. Researchers have identified more than a dozen different flavonoid compounds in spinach that function as anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic.
Looking at this list of superfoods, find fruits, vegetables, fish, legumes, brown rice and olive oil, foods that are the basis of a healthy and balanced diet will help us improve our health. Given the ease of incorporating these superfoods to your diet, I encourage you to begin to consume from today.