Not all healthy foods are created equal. Certain foods we eat to stay healthy have what some might call a "super aura" around them. These foods are praised for their ability to fight cancer, weight gain, aging and diseases. They're deemed superfoods. Maridel Reyes of Self Magazine identifies several superfoods that you can include in your daily diet.
1. Almonds are the perfect snack. They are good for your heart and they aid in weight loss. They also fight aging. "The fiber in nuts may prevent your body from absorbing some fat, speeding weight loss," says author Michelle Wien, R.D.
2. Barley has about two times as much fiber as brown rice and helps fight cancer. Beta glucan, which is a type of fiber found in barley, is known for lowering cholesterol. It also decreases your body’s rate of fat absorption.
3. Black beans have a high amount of antioxidants. They even take up two areas of the food pyramid. "They have enough protein to be a meat, and the vitamins and fiber of a veggie," says Christine Gerbstadt, M.D., spokeswoman in Sarasota, Florida, for the American Dietetic Association (ADA).
4. Farmed rainbow trout contains several B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids. According to a study done by Rush University in Chicago, "the DHA in fish may replenish DHA stored in your brain." Eeating fish a couple times a week can cause your brain to act like it is several years younger.
5. The skin of red grapes contains a chemical called resveratrol which helps sharpen your brain and reduce your risk for diseases like cancer.
6. Mushrooms enhance immunity against cancer and other infections. The bacteria found in mushrooms may help support the fight against disease.
7. A small amount of oregano can go a long way! According to Wendy Bazilian, R.D., author of The SuperFoodsRx Diet, a measly ½ tsp of oregano has the same amount of antioxidants as 3 cups of spinach. It is also high in fiber and vitamin K.
8. Shrimp are relatively low in calories and provide an array of health benefits. A 4 oz serving is only 119 calories and contains 23 g of protein, omega-3 fatty acids and selenium.
Love this list? Tell us what superfoods you keep on hand.
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