Power Foods - Antioxidant And Nutrient Rich Healthy Foods

Power foods are those superfoods that are so nutrient dense, that they have exceptional properties for disease prevention and longevity, and can have a remarkable effect on your health. You should include these super foods in your diet. While the benefits of including super foods in your diet are great, these foods on their own will not provide you with all the nutrients you need. To achieve this, you still need to eat as wide a variety of healthy foods as possible. Here is a list of top power foods that can supercharge your diet.

Green Tea. Research has shown that having at least 2 cups of tea a day decreases the risk of heart attack. Tea contains l-theonine which promotes relaxation by reducing levels of cortisol, a stress hormone. Green tea has added benefits as it contains higher levels of antioxidants which also reduce the risk of cancer

Nuts are high in protein and contain healthy fats, fibre, antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals. Nuts promote heart health and can also protect against depression and cancer. As nuts have a high fat content, the key is to have nuts in small portions.

Salmon is a super food as it is high in healthy Omega 3 fats, protein and iron, and is low in saturated fats. It is also low in calories, and health authorities recommend eating oily fish such as salmon twice a week. Including salmon in your diet will assist with weight loss and heart health.

Kiwi Fruit
This fruit is regarded as a super food as it is an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, fibre and potassium. Kiwi fruit has a unique flavour and adds great colour to deserts or salads.

Broccoli is regarded as a superfood, as it contains a range of nutrients and is high in fibre. It is a good source of vitamins A, C and K and folate, as well as phytochemicals and antioxidants. Be careful not to overcook broccoli as this can destroy some of the beneficial compounds.

Berries. are a potent source of antioxidants, flavonoids and polyphenols and are low in calories. Berries lower the risk of developing neurodegenaritive diseases such as Alzheimers. Of particular benefit are blueberries and cranberries, and in recent times, Acai and Goji berries have also received much attention as power foods.

Dark Chocolate is full of antioxidants and flavonoids and is good for you! Dark chocolate can lower blood pressure and reduce bad LDL cholesterol, as well as stimulate endorphin production which makes you feel good. Remember though that chocolate is high in calories and fat, so your intake has to be limited.

Avocados are rich in magnesium and have been shown to have an effect on blood cholesterol levels. Avocado helps decrease LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglyceride and increase HDL (good cholesterol) levels.

Flax Seeds contain high levels of lignans and Omega-3 fatty acids. Lignans benefit the heart and have anti-cancer properties. The high fibre content of flax seeds help stabilize blood sugar levels.

To Top of Page

Return to Healthy Foods from Power Foods

Return to Healthy Eating from Power Foods