Super Foods that Pack a Punch

Super foods those foods rich in phytochemicals that can decrease the risks of certain cancers, inflammation, strengthen and boost the immune system and more. These foods come with a powerful punch containing immense amounts of antioxidants, minerals, vitamins and polyphenols. Consumption of these foods just may decrease the risk for chronic diseases and actually provide a longer life span.

Some notable super foods

Tomatoes

Tomatoes and their products can make you healthier and lessen your risk for conditions such as cancer and osteoporosis according to a review of the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine(March 2011).

Researchers have found that tomatoes contain the largest source of dietary lycopene a very strong antioxidant. Tomatoes also contain anthithrombotic and anti-inflammatory functions. Research has also discovered that there is an association between the consumption of tomatoes and a decreased risk of certain types of cancers and chronic diseases that include cognitive dysfunction, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.

Blueberries

Everyone already knows blueberries are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. These berries could protect against cancer and reduce the effects from age related conditions such as dementia.

Just last year researchers from Sweden, have shown that blueberries are vital and have the ability to alleviate and guard against intestinal inflammations like ulcerative colitis and the effect becomes even stronger when eating with probotics

Broccoli

Broccoli is still holding strong in its rank of super foods. Due to its phytonutrients it may just halt the growth of tumors and decrease cancer risk.

Researchers from John Hopkins school of medicine found that broccoli extract provides protection to the skin from ultra violet solar rays that cause skin cancer.

Salba

One of the richest whole food sources of omega 3 fatty acids and fiber that is found today in nature. Matched gram for gram it contains eight times more omega 3 than salmon, four times more fiber than flax and 30% more antioxidants than in blueberries.

Studies have claimed that this super food can stabilize blood sugar levels therefore aiding those with diabetes.

Chi Seeds

These seeds are growing in bounds of popularity and just may be the replacement for flax seed. These seeds contain 30% omega 3 oil, 40% of omega 6 oils and can absorb their weight by ten times in water. These makes them a great way to keep our bodies hydrated especially on those hot summer days.

Almonds

Almonds contain monounsaturated fats which can aide in the prevention of heart disease. They are high in vitamin E, contain a good source of protein and fiber. Roasted and unsalted packs the punch for maximum minerals and vitamins.

Apples

An apple a day just may keep the doctor and pharmacy away. Due to apples content of phytonutrient quercetin it stops the oxidation of the bad cholesterol which in turns lowers our risk for damaging our arteries and risk of heart disease. The pectin in the apples appear to be strongly effective for decreasing blood cholesterol levels plus it binds heavy metals in our bodies like lead and omitting them from our gut.

Olive Oil

Get heart healthy with olive oil. It contains monounsaturated fat and antioxidant polyphenols. Olive oil is used in the Mediterranean diet which is know to halt many diseases.

There are numerous other labeled super foods that are available. You can find them by doing a web search, or simply asking your practitioner or nutritionist for which ones they advise you to consume.

Sources:

Wise Geek

Medical News 217842 and 178551

E Max Health

Fifty Magazine

Time Out Bahrain