7 superfoods to eat now

What is a superfood?

While there is no universal definition for “superfoods”, health and nutrition experts agree that superfoods are foods that are unprocessed, packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and enzymes, and help to nourish and strengthen the body naturally. They are also generally low in calories, some are high in fiber, some have a high proportion of omega-3 fatty acids and phytochemicals.

Eating superfoods is said to strengthen your immune system, fight free radical damage in your body, regulate metabolism and burn fat. The nutrients, fiber, good fats and phytochemicals found in superfoods also help protect against heart disease, cancer and shelters your organs from toxins.

What and where can I find these superfoods?

TOMATOES

These juicy vegetables contain the rare lycopenes, which are antioxidants that protects the skin against UV rays, prevents certain cancers, and help lower cholesterol. Tomatoes also contains high amounts of potassium, fiber and vitamin C.

BROCCOLI

One serving gives you a high dose of vitamin C, as well as a large percentage of your daily needs in folic acid, which can prevent heart diseases. It is also said to suppress the growth of tumours and reduce the risk of cancer. Additionally, broccoli contains lutein, an antioxidant that delays the progress of age-related molecular degeneration.

SALMON

Not only is it a source of protein, vitamins and minerals, it also contains omega-3 fatty acids that reduce blood clotting and inflammation, bad cholesterol and cancer risk. However, as salmon is a fatty fish, its high fat levels can make it unhealthy if eaten excessively. Keep consumption moderate to fully reap all its health benefits.

OATS

Fiber-rich and great for your heart, it lowers cholesterol and reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes. It’s magnesium and potassium content pumps your body with energy and keeps you feeling full for longer, so you don’t feel snackish.

BEANS

Experts credit beans for its insoluble fiber that lowers cholesterol and its soluble fibers that helps rid your body of waste. It is also a good source of protein, magnesium, potassium, healthy omega-3 fatty acid, and is extremely low in fat.

APPLES

An apple a day can keep the doctor away. Aside from its vitamins and minerals, apples are rich in phytochemicals that provide the body with many health benefits including a reduced risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, asthma, diabetes and even Alzheimer’s. And if you are trying to lose weight, apples contain four to five grams of fiber that help to fill you up - a study by Penn State University showed that people who ate an apple 15 minutes before a meal consumed fewer calories.

EGGS
Says Elizabeth Ward, author of The Pocket Idiot’s Guide to the New Food Pyramids, “Studies show if you eat eggs at breakfast, you may eat fewer calories during the day and lose weight without significantly affecting cholesterol levels.” Also, eggs are packed with vitamins and minerals such as choline, which is good for the brain.