5 Super Foods you want in your diet!
Hello!
As humans we are ALWAYS trying to find ways to improve our performance, health, and over all well-being. Lucky for you, I came across this wonderful chart of the top 50 super foods when I was browsing on CanFit Pro's website recently (see link below).
Here are the 5 I chose to share with you!
Almonds
Almonds are a nutrition packed nut. Like others nuts, it is high in fibre, monounsaturated fats and antioxidants like vitamin E. Almonds contain high amounts of magnesium important for circulation of oxygen in the blood which is crucial to optimum cardiovascular performance. They are also high in potassium which is important for heart function to increase endurance, as well as for muscle contraction, to promote strength and assist in a speedy recovery.
Cherries
Red cherries have tons of antioxidants being rich in vitamin A and C as well as in its deep red anthocyanin pigments. These powerful anti-oxidants reduce the oxidative stress from a strenuous workout aiding in muscle recovery. Cherries are also full of fibre and potassium, which paired together, reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease and high blood pressure. The red pigments in cherries specially fights heart disease and stroke by blocking the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, reducing the inflammation that contributes to the build-up of plaque. Cherries also contain specific flavonoid called terpenoid that research shows is at the forefront of fighting cancer through reducing tumor growth.
Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of iron, which is conducive to oxygenation of the muscles to fuel your workouts. Sweet potatoes are also a source of vitamin C and E and beta-carotene which both have antioxidant properties that assist in muscle recovery. On the disease fighting front, the folate, iron, copper, calcium and fibre in this vegetable helps to lower cholesterol, blood pressure and homocysteine levels. These nutrients also boost the immune system, fight cancer, support strong bones and combat intestinal disease.
Avocado
It's no surprise that avocados have received a bad rap over the years, due to their whopping 31 grams of fat per avocado. Don't fret though, 2/3 of this fat is of the monounsaturated variety which has been shown to help lower total cholesterol. In addition, avocados also pack powerful phytochemicals that fight against cancer and heart disease. Because of its high healthy fat content, avocados can help quickly satiate hunger which assists in weight loss.
Beets & Beet Greens
Beets are a great disease fighter. Their red betacyanin pigment is known to be a potent cancer fighter. They also contain the nutrient betaine which works with folate to lower inflammatory compounds known to damage your arteries and increase your risk for heart disease. Red beets are also a great source of salicylic acid, a close relative of aspirin. Beet greens are a great treat for vegetarians as they have a high iron and calcium content rarely found in vegetables, yet so crucial to preventing anemia and osteoporosis. They are also loaded with vitamin C, fibre, potassium and magnesium, all important to maintain good health.
Source https://www.canfitprointeractive.com/super_foods