Achieving your best health ever a lot easier when you incorporate superfoods into your nutrition. But what are superfoods? Superfoods are considered nutritional powerhouses because they are low-calorie whole foods that pack loads of nutrients into every bite.
Ready to expand your palate? Not all superfoods are as exotic or hard to find as you think! Here are 6 everyday superfoods you should try, plus easy ways you can fit them into your healthy eating plan.
Almonds
Why it’s super: When it comes to weight loss, almonds and other nuts often get a bad rap for their high fat and calorie content. But almonds are a rich source of heart-healthy, unsaturated fats—just be sure to eat them in moderation. Not only are they nutritionally dense, almonds are a good source of fiber and protein, plus minerals, like iron, magnesium, and calcium.
How to enjoy it: Grab a small handful (about 100 calories) and pair them with a serving of dark chocolate for a delicious afternoon snack. Or try sprinkling slivered almonds over your salad for a crunchy alternative to croutons.
Kale
Why it’s super: Kale is a cruciferous vegetable that’s bursting with nutrients. In fact, kale is more nutrient-dense than nearly any of other whole food. It’s packed with antioxidants like carotenoids, flavonoids, and isothiocyanates, which may lessen the risk of certain cancers. It’s also a fantastic source of vitamin A for eye health, fiber for a healthy gut, and omega-3 fatty acids for blocking inflammation in the body.
How to enjoy it: Serve sautéed kale with caramelized onions as a side dish for dinner. Or liven up lunch by tossing raw kale into your salad.
Apples
Why it’s super: Crunchy, delicious, and easy to munch on when you’re on the go. What’s not to love about apples? They’re chock-full of antioxidants and other health-promoting nutrients that help the body to fight inflammation and many chronic diseases. Eating the fruit whole, rather than juiced, can aid in blood sugar control and may lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Plus, they contain soluble fiber, which promotes weight loss because the stomach will feel fuller for longer.
How to enjoy it: Eat whole as a hand fruit or add apple chunks to your fruit cup for a savory snack. You can also pair apples and cheese as healthy party appetizers.
Garlic Cloves
Why it’s super: Garlic is often used to make prepared foods taste better, but it has also been used as a plant-based medicine for thousands of years. Garlic contains bioactive sulfur compounds that have the potential to fight certain cancers, such as those in the breast, stomach, or colon. It can also be used to treat metabolic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases like arteriosclerosis and hypertension.
How to enjoy it: Purée fresh or roasted garlic cloves and add them to homemade hummus dips, sauces, and soups!
Avocados
Why it’s super: Not only are avocados teeming with vitamins and minerals, they may help to boost the absorption of nutrients from other whole foods as well—meaning you get double the health benefits. Avocados are a good source of healthy fats that promote weight loss. And because avocados are a high-fiber fruit, they naturally increase good cholesterol levels (HDL) and lower bad cholesterol levels (LDL).
How to enjoy it: No matter how you take your eggs, add a few slices of avocado to your plate for a powerhouse breakfast. Or try substituting mayo on your sandwich for slices of creamy and buttery avocado.
Dark Chocolate
Why it’s super: A nibble of dark chocolate a day may play an important role in helping the mind age well. That’s because dark chocolate is powered by cocoa flavanols, which promote healthy blood flow and the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the brain. Better circulation also leads to improved cognitive function and can enhance learning, memory, and focus. And good circulation may lower the risk of stroke by encouraging the heart to maintain a healthy blood pressure.
How to enjoy it: As an occasional treat, a square or two of dark chocolate can be a tasty way to indulge a craving without the guilt. You can also mix dark chocolate cocoa powder with Greek yogurt for a high-protein snack that will fuel your body after a workout.
Superfoods may be good for you, but the magic happens when you make them part of a well-balanced diet. Be sure to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fats and proteins, and other foods to get all of the nutrients your body needs. How will you work more superfoods into your meals and snacks? Let the community know in the comments below!
