Super Foods

I’m so glad so many of you enjoyed my latest post, You Are What You Eat.  Going with that theme, I’ve decided to take a look at Super Foods.  Some of you probably have heard the term thrown around left and right in recent years.  So, what exactly are super foods?

According to Health.com, super foods are “nutrient powerhouses that pack large doses of antioxidants, polyphenols, vitamins and minerals.”  They may reduce risk of chronic disease and prolong your life. 

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1. Kale.  Kale is a leafy green that contains carotenoids that help protect against cancer, heart disease and infection.  Kale also promotes eye health and is high in fiber.  For those of you looking to lower your cholesterol, Kale is a great vegetable to eat because you can find kale year-round.

My favorite way to eat it:  Kale chips!  I love kale chips, because it’s a great alternative to potato chips.  Do they taste the same?  Of course not, but if you’re looking for a crunch than these are perfect.  Drizzle with a tad bit of olive oil and stick in the oven at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.

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2. Blueberries.  Blueberries are super delicious, but I can say that I wasn’t always a fan.  Shocking, I know.  These berries are high in antioxidants and help prevent infection and promote brain health.  They are high in selenium, zinc, iron, vitamin C, B complex and vitamin E. 

My favorite way to eat it:  Raw!  Although I do love blueberries in baked goods, my favorite way to eat them are raw.  But, they have to be just right.  I don’t like when blueberries are still kind of crunchy, but I HATE them when they are too ripe and mushy.  It’s a delicate balance for me.

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3. Acai Berries.  Another berry to add to the list are acai berries.  Acai berries contain anthocyanins for heart health and are FULL of antioxidants.  They help reduce inflammation and improve circulation.  They also help protect the skin from cellular damage.

My favorite way to eat it:  Confession.  I’ve actually never had acai berries raw.  The only way I’ve had them were in juice form.  I guess now with all the wonderful health benefits, I’ll be trying these raw as soon as possible.

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4. Coconut Oil.  You know my love for coconut oil.  It can be used topically as a moisturizer, but also used in cooking at high temperatures.  It helps control diabetes and contains monolaurin, a nutrient only found in breast milk.

My favorite way to eat it:  I don’t.  I prefer to use it topically, but I know many of you use it in baking.  I use coconut oil every night to remove my makeup.  It’s a great alternative to harsh chemicals and works great!  Next time you’re at the grocery store, pick some up! 

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5. Lentils.  Lentils are FULL of soluble fiber great for reducing cholesterol.  Iron is also a great nutrient that is in lentils. To maximize iron absorption, pair lentils with a vitamin C-rich food.

My favorite way to eat it: I love lentils in a cold salad with cranberries.  It is absolutely delicious. Whole Foods makes a great lentil salad!

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Talk to Me

• What’s your favorite super food?
• Do you look for super foods when grocery shopping?
• Do you tend to pick super foods high in one particular mineral or vitamin?