He who takes medicine and neglects to diet
wastes the skill of his doctors.
~ Chinese Proverb
What is the secret to a longer and healthier life? It is in the food that we eat. As you well know all foods are not created equal. Choosing and eating the right foods may help increase your life expectancy, but more important can improve the quality of your life.
Here are ten of the top power packed foods designed to give you energy, vitality and all around good health.
1. Beans
If you have issues with gas (flatulence), take precautions before you eat beans. Soaking them first, helps significantly. Beans of all kinds (kidney, navy, lentils, chick peas, Northern) are high in protein. This is plant based protein, so it contains very little fat, carbs or calories. If fiber is a problem in your diet, eating a healthy portion of beans each day can help your digestive system remain healthy.
2. Oatmeal
Oatmeal has come back into popularity as a food that helps lower your blood cholesterol. You can make it yourself with rolled oats or you can use the instant kind if you’re in a hurry. Oatmeal is a filling grain that also provides much needed fiber to keep hunger at bay and your blood sugar stable.
3. Fruits
Fruits are filled with antioxidants, such as Vitamin C & A. Antioxidants fight free radical damage in the body and reduces the risk of cancer. Berries, such as blueberries and grapes have the highest amount of antioxidants. But choose an array of fruits in a variety of colors for maximum health. The antioxidants in fruit boosts the immune system to fight the effects of aging in the body.
4. Allium Foods
This class of food includes garlic, onions, leeks and shallots. Garlic is known for lowering cholesterol. Allium vegetables help guard the body against the risk of cancer and many other problems. They also help lower blood pressure and prevent blood clots. Eating these power packed vegetables in their natural state, especially garlic, increases their health value and benefits.
5. Salmon
Eating foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids reduces the risk of heart disease and other conditions like atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) while salmon is a fatty fish, but it contains “good” fats that have been proven to improve health in children and adults. Salmon is rich in protein, which is of great use after an exercise session to help build muscle tissue.
6. Flax Seed
Like salmon it contains Omega-3 fatty acids, these seeds also contain Omega-6 and Omega-9 fatty acids. You get a lot of power to fight high cholesterol, heart disease and diabetes with this seed. Ground flax seed can be used in many ways. It can be added to fruit smoothies, sprinkled in yogurt, eaten with cereal or added to pancake mix to name a few.
7. Peppers
Peppers are colorful. They contain antioxidants like beta-carotene and Vitamin C. Peppers range from mild and sweet to so hot you’ll be calling for the fire department. All peppers contain a substance called capsaicin. Capsaicin has the properties of an anti-inflammatory, a pain reliever, lowers cancer risks and heart disease. They are good in salads, salsa and all sorts of dishes.
8. Nuts and Seeds
Nuts are high in fat, but those fats are also the good kind. Peanuts, almonds, Brazil nuts, walnuts and pistachios are all providers of good fats and protein. Crush them into a fine powder and use them as a coating instead of higher carb bread crumbs. Nuts also help lower cholesterol. Eat them right out of the shell with no additives.
9. Acai
This berry has been in the news a lot lately. It is rich in antioxidants and increases energy. You can get more done and look better while doing it. You can now get Acai juice and supplements in almost any store.
10.Yogurt
The fat free variety is good for you. Yogurt contains calcium, Vitamin B and protein. If you don’t drink milk, yogurt may be an alternative to get more calcium into your diet to help build strong bones and teeth. Live yogurt also contains “friendly” bacteria to help promote a healthy digestive system.
Building a better healthier body begins with what you eat. Try these super foods to get started on the right food.
1. photo credit 1: http://www.flickr.com/photos/kushiinstitute/1484182210/sizes/z/in/photostream/
2. Photo credit 2: http://www.flickr.com/photos/kushiinstitute/1483320935/sizes/z/in/photostream/
3. photo credit 3:http://www.flickr.com/photos/elanaspantry/2285194592/sizes/m/in/photostream/
*Medical Disclaimer:
The information in this article is to be used for general informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of professional medical advice. If you have further specific questions you are urged to consult with your personal physician for additional information.