When feeling lethargic, it is fairly common that people reach for sugar, caffeine, and snacks to get up and going again. However, stimulant use has only short-term effects. Instead of reaching for coffee and energy drinks to boost energy levels, consuming super foods will provide that much-needed charge while ensuring optimal health.
According to Super FoodsRX.com, a “super food” is high in nutrients, generally lower in fats, and contains agents that enable the body to heal itself while reversing the effects of aging. Many of these foods have detoxifying properties and have been known to reduce the risk of and slow the progression of certain cancers and diseases (heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes, etc.). When the body is free of toxins and its systems are running smoothly, energy is more quickly derived from nutrient-packed foods. Super foods contain and deliver the highest amounts of energy and are available in every food group. Here are some examples of these power-packed foods:
1. Apples: contain powerful antioxidants, fiber, vitamin C, and potassium; they are low in calories and heart healthy.
2. Beans: contain high amounts of protein and are low in fat; they regulate blood sugar and have high amounts of fiber, B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, and iron; they are heart healthy, help manage weight, and prevent certain types of cancer.
3. Blueberries: contain high levels of phytonutrients (“non-vitamin, non-mineral components of food that have significant healthful benefits”); they are excellent for central nervous system support and contain cancer-preventing agents.
4. Dark chocolate: contains flavanols which are plants that possess high antioxidant properties; also comprised of fats, protein, and carbohydrates; contains significantly less caffeine than a cup of coffee; increases good cholesterol and is heart-healthy.
5. Honey: in its raw state, honey provides great amounts of energy; has medicinal uses such as treatment of respiratory ailments, skin ulcers, wounds, urinary and gastrointestinal ailments, and skin problems.
6. Oats: are carbohydrates that provide energy over a prolonged period of time that also contain high amounts of protein and fiber; they are heart-healthy, help reduce high cholesterol, and are packed with vital nutrients.
7. Pomegranates: are rich in potassium, vitamin C, polyphenols, antioxidants, and vitamin B6; with great detoxifying properties, they rid the body of free-radicals which create inflammation and disease in the body.
8. Spinach: a powerful detoxifier; this super food contains vitamin K, antioxidants, iron, and other nutrients; prevents disease (cardiovascular disease, cancer, AMD, cataracts) and supports healthy eyesight.
9. Tea: contains antioxidant properties, fat-free, heart-healthy, and helps maintain/increase water intake; certain varieties assist in weight management.
10. Wild Salmon: contains essential fatty acids (EFAs) that reduce high cholesterol; reduces inflammation in the body thus preventing the onset of ailments and certain types of cancer.
Consuming these super foods on a daily basis will allow the body to function at optimal efficiency. It will be better able to metabolize food and heal itself. Super foods work to achieve good health and high energy while preventing the onset of many diseases. Incorporating these nutrient-dense, power-packed foods into the daily diet will ensure a long, vibrant quality of life.
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