Kyla Danelle
Gearing toward a healthier and more vigorous lifestyle? These simple and easy-to-find superfoods might be just what you need for a major fitness boost.
Though not exactly able to give you super powers, superfoods are whole foods packed with clinically-proven health benefits. They are known, in general, to contain antioxidants, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that help the body prevent and combat several diseases, and even some types of cancers!
Superfoods are much like your regular dose of multivitamins – except closer-to-nature, more beneficial, and more fun to add to your daily meals! Check out these 5 nutrient-dense superfoods that will surely make you feel the difference.
Green Tea
Green tea is best known for its weight loss properties – but did you know that it also contains multiple anti-aging, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory properties?
A few freshly brewed cups of green tea per day helps protect against chronic diseases. The compound epigallocatechin gallate (ECGC) present in green tea leaves is proven to promote cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of diabetes, heart ailments, and cancer. Green tea is also best used for detoxification, as it contains antioxidants which neutralize free radicals and slow down the effects of aging.
This superfood was once known as the traditional Asian secret to a long life – no wonder!
Walnuts
A regular handful of these brain-shaped nuts can do vast improvements for your mental, digestive, and overall wellness.
Walnuts are an abundant source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids – specifically alpha-linolenic acids, compounds that the body cannot reproduce on its own, and are thus sourced from the food we eat. These nutrients have high concentrations of antioxidants, which help promote gut health and build immunity from digestive disorders.
Walnuts are best eaten for breakfast – so make sure to grab your fill of them before starting the day!
Chia seeds
Dubbed as “Nature’s Tiny Miracle”, these small seeds are packed with huge, life-changing benefits.
Apart from being rich in fatty acids, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc – chia seeds are one of the best sources of plant-based fiber. Two tablespoons of chia contain roughly 11 grams of fiber, along with other trace minerals. They also contain the nine amino acids essential to the formation of proteins, all of which are not independently produced by the body.
This superfood is proven to improve cholesterol levels and aid effectively in weight loss, as its high fiber content slows down digestion, prevents blood sugar spikes, and promotes the feeling of fullness. They’re best partnered with drinks and salads – so consider making them a part of every meal!
Flax seeds
Flax seeds are thin, elongated, and usually white or cream-colored seeds. They are a staple alternative to regular oils and eggs (for pastries) in a vegan diet, and are considered a nutritional powerhouse due to their multiple uses and potent nutrient content.
Apart from being a great source of antioxidants and fatty acids, a study has also proven that flax seeds have the capacity to drastically reduce high blood pressure levels in hypertensive patients. They are also shown to decrease cancer growth and risk.
A few spoonfuls of flax seeds go best with brownies and granola bars. Be careful, though! Flax seeds may cause negative effects when eaten in excess. As with everything else in this list, eat them in moderation.
Moringa (Malunggay)
Instead of just having this in your pantry, why not have it in your backyard, too?
Malunggay is abundant in the Philippines and other places with tropical climates, rarely elsewhere. It is usually sold in dried, capsule, and powdered forms, but is best when consumed fresh.
As the bundle of greens in your usual hearty bowl of Tinola, Malunggay is known as an all-around “miracle vegetable”. This is due to its high nutritional value and countless medical uses. It is said to promote breast milk production for nursing mothers, regulate blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and provide an overall boost in vitality and well-being!
Do you know other superfoods that deserve to be in this list? Sound off and let us know!
