We have put together a list of superfoods for you to keep you and your immune system healthy. These foods provide you with much-needed nutrition.
By John Matias
There is no one sure-fire way to attain optimal health, but the truth is most people are simply not getting the nutrients they require on a daily basis. We reviewed some recent research and have compiled a list of nutrient-rich superfoods that can boost your immune system, improve your digestion, and increase your energy. Remember to buy organic whenever possible, as foods treated with chemical pesticides, herbicides, and artificial additives are unnatural and harmful to the body.
Include these Superfoods in your Diet Now!
Kale
As a leafy green vegetable that already establishes its role as a good source of chlorophyll, it’s also where you should turn for iron and vitamins A, C, and K. Kale also has powerful antioxidants that can help ward off cancer and fight against inflammatory conditions. This vegetable is very beneficial in cleansing your system, as it is filled with both fibre and sulphur. Kale also helps detoxify the body and keep your liver in optimal condition.
Lemon
Lemon is rich in vitamin B6 and C as well as in bioflavonoids, which support the antioxidant effects fighting against free radicals. It is a natural antibiotic and a powerful antibacterial, perfect to ward off colds and the flu. It can also help fight digestive system-related cancers.
Kefir
Most people are unfamiliar with kefir. Like yogurt, kefir is full of probiotics, or healthy bacteria. Foods created by lacto-fermenting are easier to digest, and increase the healthy balance of your intestinal tract. The probiotics in kefir not only improve digestion, but also help your genes fight disease and prevent allergies.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil can and should be substituted anywhere you use butter, margarine, vegetable oil and even olive oil. The reason for this is the fat content of coconut oil – half of which is lauric acid – is converted by our bodies into monolaurin, which is also found in human breast milk and has both antiviral and germ-killing properties. Other benefits of coconut oil include lowering cholesterol, keeping diabetes in check, reducing heart disease, supporting the immune system, helping with weight loss, boosting energy and current research suggests that it fights Alzheimer’s disease.
Sweet Potatoes
In addition to energy, they’re also packed with a lot of minerals derived from the soil, like potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and iron. Sweet potatoes also contain beta carotene and vitamin A. One cup of sweet potatoes every week can reduce the risk of lung, skin and prostate cancers. They can help prevent heart disease and are effective in calming stress-related symptoms, including muscle cramps. The soluble fibre in sweet potatoes, coupled with high nutrients, helps to satisfy your hunger and curb your appetite.
Sprouts
Sprouts contain large amount of vitamins, minerals, and are a high source of protein, calcium, vitamins B1, B2, B3, and potassium. With more nutritional value than we could even list, sprouts are a superfood that needs to make it onto your menu.
Turmeric
Turmeric used alone or in curry, is an anti-inflammatory agent and a wound healer. It can relieve arthritis and help inhibit the growth of pancreatic cancer cells. On top of that, by stimulating the gallbladder, turmeric improves digestion. Mixed with black pepper or dissolved in oil, it is better assimilated by the body.
Ground flax and Chia seeds
Flax seeds contain lots of omega-3 fatty acids, and a large amount of fibre, which in addition to aiding digestion, is effective in lowering cholesterol and stabilizing blood sugar. Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants, calcium, and vitamin C.
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