If you want to get the most out of your body, you have to put the right food in it. These five power foods are rich in numerous nutrients and abundant with antioxidants that can help support your overall health while ensuring your body’s systems run smoothly and efficiently. Does your daily diet contain any of the following?
- Spinach: Your mother was doing you a favor when she told you to “eat your spinach!” This dark-green, leafy vegetable contains at least 13 different flavonoid compounds that act as antioxidants, protecting your body’s cells from free radical damage. Spinach also contains high levels of vitamin K, vitamin A, manganese, folate, iron and an array of other helpful nutrients. Your biceps may not swell like Popeye’s, but eating spinach will protect and nourish your body so it can reach its highest potential.
- Walnuts: Not only are they delicious, walnuts are one of the biggest non-animal sources of protein. They are packed with fiber, B vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids. Walnuts have even been approved by the Food & Drug Administration as a heart-healthy ingredient with numerous benefits.
- Yogurt: It’s alive! Yogurt’s beneficial properties come from its active cultures and “good” bacteria, live microbes that can support healthy digestion. It’s also a great source of calcium, with approximately 400 mg per cup. Check the label though, to make sure it has Lactobacillus acidophilus, and to verify it’s not loaded down with fat or sugar.
- Salmon: Eat plenty of salmon. Why? Because it’s filled with omega-3 fatty acids (specifically DHA and EPA) and protein, and can be prepared in a variety of ways. If you prefer not to eat fish, you can take a fish oil supplement to get your daily dose of these helpful omega-3 acids.
- Sunflower Seeds: A handful of sunflower seeds is a good source of vitamin E, vitamin B1, magnesium, copper and selenium. They also contain phytosterols, plant compounds that can help support healthy cholesterol levels already within normal range.