The ABC’s of Super Foods

The ABC’s of Super-Foods

1. Avocado

This delicious creation is a great source of good fats, which helps to improve cholesterol levels, decrease risk of heart disease, and benefit brain function. Avocados are also packed with vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, and vitamin B6, which promotes healthy skin and serves as a back-up fuel.

2. Beets

Beets are high in betalain, an antioxidant that gives them that purple hue and may help ward off cancer and other degenerative diseases, they are also packed with vitamins A, B, and C, and offer additional benefits ranging from bolstering the immune system to helping the body produce collagen, and many others.

3. Chia

Chia seeds are packed with magnesium, iron, calcium, and potassium, they can absorb up to 10 times their weight in water, helping the body stay hydrated longer and may improve overall endurance.

4. Dates

This sweet fruit is packed with fiber, which is essential for good heart and digestive health, and also many vitamins and minerals including potassium, selenium, copper, and magnesium.

5. Eggs

Eggs are a great serving of protein in an inexpensive little package, they are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help with proper body function and heart health.

6. Flaxseeds

The omega-3s in these seeds can help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease, besides being crazy high in fiber content.

7. Grapes

Vitamins C and K, beta-carotene, and resveratrol in this tiny but powerful fruit act as antioxidants in the body to help eliminate free radicals that can cause cellular damage.

8. Hemp

The biggest benefit here comes from essential fatty acids and protein, which helps fight coronary heart disease, cancer, and even symptoms of depression.

9. Inca berries

They are packed with vitamins C and A, iron, niacin, and phosphorous, not to mention a high content of protein and fiber.

10. Jalapeño peppers

This spicy pepper is packed with capsaicin, a compound found in spicy peppers that’s credited with speeding up metabolism and suppressing appetite and also increases fat oxidation.

11. Kiwi

Kiwi is a fantastic source of folate, which is essential for overall cell health reducing the risk of heart disease and colon cancer.

12. Lemon

Lemons and all citrus are packed with vitamin C, which is essential for the body to produce collagen that keeps blood vessels, tendons, ligaments, and bones healthy and strong. Plus, they’re filled with the antioxidants known as flavonoids, which may help reduce risk of heart disease, reduce inflammation, and fight some cancers.

13. Milk

The chocolate version of this cafeteria treat touts some serious post-workout health benefits, it provides the optimal ratio of carbohydrates and protein for gym-goers to consume post-exercise.

14. Nuts

The unsaturated fats in nuts are good for your heart, and some types can help lower blood pressure and body fat, they are also a good source of protein.

15. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a great source of whole grains, it a great source of fiber, which has been shown to help lower blood cholesterol, aid in digestion, and improve metabolism.

16. Pumpkin

The orange flesh of pumpkin is rich in antioxidants and vitamins including beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamin K. Pumpkin seeds are also packed with protein, magnesium, zinc, and potassium, and studies suggest pumpkin seeds could help prevent enlargement of the prostate gland, lower the risk of bladder stones, and help prevent depression.

17. Quinoa

This mildly nutty, grain-like staple is a seed related to green leafy vegetables like kale and Swiss chard, and provides the nine essential amino acids our bodies can’t produce themselves.

18. Radish

Certain compounds in radishes may be able to help stop the growth of some cancers and even aid in muscle recovery after a tough workout.

19. Salmon

Salmon is full of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and may also help protect skin from UV-induced damage

20. Tea

From boosting endurance to reducing the risk of cardiovascular issues and many cancers, including breast, colon, skin, and lung, tea leaves are a great way to stay hydrated and healthy.

21. Ugli fruit

These are actually a type of tangelo from Jamaica, this citrus fruit is a cross between a grapefruit, Seville orange, and tangerine. It contains about 140% of the daily recommended value of vitamin C.

22. Vegetables

The good news is you can’t really go wrong with vegetables. Regardless of the variety you choose, they’re going to have at least a handful of redeeming qualities, from high levels of vitamins and minerals to a good dose of fiber.

23. Watermelon

This refreshing fruit is low in sugar, high in vitamins A and C, as well as the amino acid citrulline, which help the body produce another amino acid, arginine, which can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

24. Xigua

Xigua is just a specific type of the commonly known watermelon, so they have very similar health benefits.

25. Yams

These tubers are low on the glycemic index, meaning that they can be consumed without negatively affecting blood sugar levels, making them a great food to eat for sustained energy.

26. Zucchini

This green-skinned veggie is packed with vitamins C and B6, potassium, manganese, and folate. Plus it has a high water content, so it’s great for hydrating the body.