A food that has high nutritional value and has been shown to prevent diseases is the unofficial definition of a “superfood.” Superfoods are not regulated and have no scientific basis behind the name, but certain foods have been coined as being mightier than others due to their dense nutritional value. So, why not throw in some of these superfoods into your daily intake to ensure that your diet is packed with a few healthy powerhouses?
Fresh produce is by far the food group that has the most superfoods. Are you surprised? Fruits and vegetables tend to be high in fiber, vitamins, minerals and, most importantly, antioxidants. Antioxidants have been shown to fight “free radicals” in your body which help to prevent multiple illnesses and diseases such as diabetes and cancer. Vitamin C and Vitamin E are two antioxidants that help to keep your body healthy. Did you realize that when you ate bell peppers or tomatoes you were consuming Vitamin C? But, nutrients are not just found in fresh fruit and vegetables; they can also be found in seafood and whole grains. By including superfoods throughout the week, you’re sure to consume vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can help keep your body healthy during these winter months when germs are quickly spread from person to person!
Superfood examples:
- Pears
- Blueberries
- Avocado
- Chia seeds
- Cabbage
- Oranges
- Limes
- Grapefruits
- Pomegranate
- Brussels sprouts
- Beets
- Garlic
- Winter squash
- Ginger
- Kale
- Apples
- Fennel
- Sweet potatoes
- Broccoli
- Fennel
- Walnuts
- Spinach
- Salmon
A lot of the foods listed above are probably familiar to you. But, how often do you eat them? By throwing in a baked sweet potato for dinner one night, adding oranges to your breakfast throughout the week, including beets in your lunch salad and using garlic and ginger to season dinner dishes, you can add a powerful amount of nutritional value to your meals.
Antioxidant Rich Breakfast Toast
1 serving
- 2 slices high-fiber whole wheat bread, toasted
- ½ avocado, mashed
- 2-3 large tomato slices
- 1 large boiled egg, sliced
- Everything but the bagel sesame seasoning
Spread ¼ avocado on top of each slice of toasted bread. Add sliced tomatoes onto each piece. Add sliced boiled egg pieces over each slice. Sprinkle with everything but the bagel seasoning. Enjoy with sliced orange for breakfast!
