We’ve all heard of Superfoods, multi-tasking foods so rich in phytonutrients that they promote not only your health, but you’re mood and well being and can even control your weight! We here at The Balancing Act know how essential multi-tasking is to your every day. So, we’ve compiled our list of top 10 superfoods and tasty ways you can incorporate them into your family’s diet.
1. Nuts – If you want to dramatically reduce your risk of cancer, diabetes and heart disease then GO NUTS! Nuts are rich in vitamin E, folate (folic acid), fiber, plant protein and many minerals.
2. Sweet Potatoes/ Yams - Yep, sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are packed with carotenoids, including the vitamin A precursor beta-carotene. These have been found to protect us against carcinogens and preserve our night vision. Three and a half ounces of sweet potato delivers 12 mg. of beta-carotene vitamin A. So don’t just save those sweet potato recipes for Thanksgiving – your health will thank you for it!
3.Edamame – or young baby soy beans are high in protein, fiber, vitamins, and isoflavones (found only in soy). A small serving of these tasty snacks have as much fiber as 4 slices of bread or 4 cups of zucchini!
4.Carrots – Bugs Bunny knew what he was doing! This tasty snack has beta-carotene which is excellent for your eyes, helps keep your arteries clear, and may prevent tumors from growing!
5. Beans – “Beans, beans, they’re good for your heart…” as they say! They are high in complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber. Beans are also extremely beneficial in an anti-diabetes diet because they rank low on the glycemic scale, which means that they do not cause the inflammatory, hunger-inducing spike in blood sugar levels associated with refined grains and baked goods.
6. Dark Chocolate – You heard me right! CHOCOLATE! Not only do they taste good but dark chocolate seems to contribute to lowering blood pressure, increasing blood flow, and ultimately contributing to a healthy heart. But dont go overboard because it’s still high in fat and calories!
7. Tuna – The omega-3 fatty acids in tuna, salmon and other “fatty” fishes have been shown to help lower LDL, or “bad” cholesterol levels and minimize menstrual cramps. Tuna is also rich in vitamin D, and has high protein, which gives energy and builds muscle!
8. Strawberries; -Strawberries contain significant levels of phytonutrients and antioxidants, which fight free radicals (great cancer fighter!) and full of vitamin C. And they’re tasty to boot!
9. Kale – Kale contains high amounts of beta carotene (precursor of vitamin A) and vitamin C. And like any leafy greens like spinach, turnip greens and collards, is high in folic acid which is essential for great hair and skin!
10. Green & Black Tea - Green & Black Teas are high antioxidants and they modify the metabolism to detoxify harmful chemicals. Green & Black Tea have about eight to 10 times the polyphenols found in fruits and vegetables! SO make time for Tea Time!
