Superfoods

Incorporating Superfoods in your diet is a great way to insure you are getting the most nutritious foods that are essential for good health. What exactly are Superfoods and how do you get them into your diet? Read on to find out! 

​A superfood is officially defined as a nutrient-rich food considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being.  Superfoods are rich in nutrients, antioxidants, polyphenols, vitamins and minerals.  There is not a legal or medical definition of super food, but the nutrition industry has promoted select foods by using that standard. Eating these nutrient packed super foods may reduce a person's risk of developing chronic diseases, aid in weight loss, provide dietary and healing benefits, are energizing and are important for achieving overall optimal health. Most berries, specifically blueberries, raspberries, strawberries and blackberries, are considered superfoods because they are high in antioxidants, vitamin C and potassium. All leafy greens are superfoods because of their high fiber and vitamin content. Other superfoods include all types of beans, legumes and nuts because of their high polyunsaturated fat content.  Superfoods are known to reduce cholesterol and weight overall as they are generally low-calorie, whole foods. They also reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer due to their high antioxidant content. Basically, superfoods are the most highly nutritious foods and provide a huge array of health benefits! There are hundreds of foods that would be categorized as a Superfood but below is a list of my 5 personal favorite superfoods that I eat on a regular basis.

HEMP SEEDS
Hemp seeds are a complete protein and considered one of the most nutritious seeds in the world! They have the most concentrated balance of proteins, essential fats, vitamins and enzymes combined with a relative absence of sugar, starches and saturated fats. They contain 20 different varieties of amino acids and all nine of the essential amino acids. My favorite way to eat them are sprinkled in my oatmeal or added to a smoothie or salad. 

GOJI BERRIES
Goji berries are tart, delicious, highly nutritious, red berries. They are loaded with vitamin C, beta carotene and iron. They are a good source of B vitamins and antioxidants. They’re also rich in polysaccharides, which aid the immune system, have 18 kinds of amino acids, and are a rich source of potassium. I love just snacking on them mixed with a handful of raw almonds. 

AVOCADOS
​Avocados are one of the most nutrient-dense foods. They are high in fiber, folate, potassium, vitamin E and magnesium. Avocado Toast is our new favorite way to enjoy avocados. Just spread fresh avocado on toast, add a few seasonings and other favorite toppings such as sliced tomatoes and sprouts and enjoy!

SPINACH
Spinach is one of my favorite green Superfoods. Spinach contains a lot of the nutrients that the body needs in order to stay healthy and function properly, such as protein, vitamin A, C, E and K, folic acid, magnesium, fiber, and flavonoids. I add Spinach to my daily smoothies and also use it in salads and soups. ​

QUINOA
​Quinoa is an ancient grain and is high in fiber and protein. It contains more protein than any other grain while also packing in iron and potassium, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium. Quinoa is very versatile and I love it for a breakfast cereal or in a salad. It's good served hot or cold.

​Why not start adding these most nutritious foods into your diet if you haven’t already! What are your favorite Superfoods?