Optimal health means you have enough energy to make it through the day, and can meet the demands of even the most strenuous schedule. When you eat healthy and take care of your body, you can reduce your medical bills, and make it less likely that you will have to visit a doctor or hospital for medical treatment. Super foods provide an abundance of nutrients that your body needs, and eating the right amount and quantity can significantly improve your health.
Blueberries
These delicious little berries pack a powerful punch. That deep-blue color is a by-product of something called flavonoids. These naturally occurring compounds help to protect the brains neurons from oxidation and inflammation. Eat berries to preserve memory function, and improve the quality of your skin.
Spinach
Popeye eats it for good reason, and so should you. Spinach is chock full of antioxidants, beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. The latter two ingredients act as a type of sunscreen that protects your eyes and reduces the likelihood of macular degeneration. Spinach also provides an excellent source of Vitamin K, and can help you keep good bone and cardiovascular health.
Nuts
Almonds and pistachios provide a large amount of protein, fiber, and healthy fat. These little nuts can help you lower your bad cholesterol, and have even been shown to aid in weight loss. Just a handful of these nuts per day can help you think more clearly, and stay full longer, so you avoid the crash that comes with the mid-afternoon lull.
Cacao
More than dark chocolate, we’re talking about cacao that has been created without the addition of sugar and other chemicals. Cacao powder is rich in flavonoids and antioxidants and can help you lower blood pressure, improve blood flow, and provide a boon to heart health. There is also evidence to suggest that the chocolate treat can boost your mood and make you happier. A maternal specialist, Dr. Gilbert Webb also says women in hard pregnancies might benefit from how foods like this help with hormonal changes.
Bell Peppers
Red bell peppers can specifically reduce arthritis, or at the very least slow the progression of the disease. These little peppers have excellent vitamin C, and can help keep your skin and blood vessels healthy and strong.
Take care of your body and your body will take care of you well into old age. Adding just a few of these superfoods to your diet can increase your mood, health and energy levels. Avoid the doctor’s office and stay healthy by eating right and getting the right nutrients for your body.
Informational credit: http://www.mercy.net/doctor/gilbert-w-webb-md
