I’m sure you know what foods are considered junk foods and why they are bad for you. From the grease to the saturated fat, junk foods are the bane of our existence! You may not be as familiar with super foods which are the exact opposite of junk foods. Super foods are foods that are good for you and actually have positive effects on your body. Here is a list of the top 10 super foods that you should incorporate into your diet!
10. Yogurt
I’m not talking about Go-Gurt here, or other yogurts that have been pumped full of sugar. Yogurts with very little additives are the most beneficial for your body. They contain calcium, protein and bacterial cultures that boost your immune system. Have yogurt once a day and find new ways to eat it! Try using yogurt as a spread instead of fatty condiments like sour cream and mayonnaise.
9. Tomatoes
Eating tomatoes can lower your risk for breast, lung and stomach cancers and even prevent heart attacks. The antioxidant in tomatoes called lycopene is responsible for these impressive accomplishments. Whether you’re eating fresh tomatoes from your garden or putting ketchup on your burger, it doesn’t matter. Just make sure you are eating tomatoes in some form a few times a week!
8. Tea
Instead of coffee or soda, load up on green and black tea. Another powerful antioxidant, green tea in particular can lower your cholesterol, strengthen immune system, and ward off the effects of an unhealthy diet.
7. Soy
Containing special antioxidants that fight cellular damage, soy can also lower your cholesterol and reduce your risk of kidney disease and Alzheimer’s. Try soy milk in your cereal instead of regular, snack on edamame, and put tofu in your dinner entrée.
6. Oranges
This powerful fruit is a great source of vitamin C, calcium, and potassium that can lower high blood pressure and cholesterol. Eating an orange a day also fights cardiovascular disease! There really is no better snack than an orange.
5. Olive Oil
Who would have ever thought that oil can be good for you? While not all oils have positive effects on the body, olive oil actually does. Reduce your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and cancer by using olive oil instead of canola or vegetable oil. In addition, it can help you maintain a healthy weight.
4. Nuts
One of the greatest things about nuts is that they make you feel fuller faster! They are an excellent source of vitamin E, unsaturated fats, and minerals that can reduce your risk of heart disease and diabetes. If you’re feeling hungry, eat a handful of almonds or cashews and don’t need to feel guilty!
3. Fish
If you like fish, you are free to eat as much as you want. Not only are they a good source of protein, but they are full of omega-3 fats which keep you healthy and heart attack free. Take a tuna sandwich for lunch or mix some salmon into your dinner salad.
2. Blueberries
There is perhaps no better way to get your antioxidants than by eating blueberries. Not only are they packed with antioxidants but they also contain vitamin C and potassium which can be an anti-inflammatory and prevent heart disease. The next time you are in the mood for a snack, grab some eat some blueberries that are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
1. Dark Chocolate
I save this one for last, not necessarily because it’s the best super food for you, but because sometimes you just have to eat some chocolate and knowing that we can have it without feeling guilty is pure gold! Dark chocolate is full of flavanols and antioxidants – the key nutrients for preventing kidney disease and type 2 diabetes. When you’re at the grocery store, make sure that you aren’t picking up milk chocolate which is not nearly as beneficial for your body. A general rule of thumb is to look for the darkest chocolate you can find as it will have the lowest amount of sugar. After you’ve made your selection, enjoy it guilt-free!
About the author: Julia is a writer passionate about health, fitness & blogging. When she's not running her dog she can sometimes be found writing about Smartlipo, cooking and a myriad of other topics.