Ten Best Superfoods, you ask? Truth be told, not all foods are created equal when we speak of anti-aging attributes as well as nutrition. Many of these foods can be found in the now well known Mediterranean diet. You can find many Superfood Lists online but lets focus on the top ten.
Avocado
A superfood believed by some to be excessive in fat content, yet in reality, the fat contained is the healthy type called monounsaturated fat. This wonder fruit is practically a meal in itself, containing high amounts of nutrition and vitamins, particularly vitamin C and vitamin E.
Broccoli
One of my own favorites, this powerhouse of a vegetable is an amazing source of iron. Broccoli is truly the king of vegetables! In reality, we could have seen Popeye downing fistfuls of broccoli in cartoons all these years. Not is it packed with vitamins and iron, broccoli is also full of bioflavanoids. This green miniature tree-looking veggie is rated among the best in a list of anti-cancer greens, having demonstrated the ability to ward off prostate and breast cancer.
Blueberries
Blueberries put the “super” in Superfoods! These tiny health landmines full of minerals, bioflavanoids (an antioxidant which maintains the elasticity of skin while strengthening arteries) and vitamins, provide protection against most cancers and possess anti aging qualities as well. Blueberries also help reduce ldl cholesterol.
Tomatoes
This red and juicy fruit supplies lycopene, supporting s healthy prostate while helping rid the body of free radicals which tend to injure delicate tissue. Lycopene is absorbed much more efficiently by the body when tomatoes are cooked, so enjoy your sauces and tomato basil soup! Canned tomatoes are a fantastic source of lycopene as well, having been cooked well for the canning process.
Fish
Fish oil direct from a healthy serving of salmon, mackerel, tuna or sardine is the best source of Omega fatty acids. Omega-filled oils reduce the build up of fatty deposits in the arteries as well as the risk of blood clots. Omega-3 has been found to improve concentration and mental performance in adults, and studies among school children has found a marked improvement in their performance as well.
Garlic
Garlic has been known and respected as a healing food for centuries. It is a powerful antioxidant and one of the most effective cures for colds and flu. It is helpful in reducing high ldl cholesterol levels and is most effective when eaten raw.
Honey
Like Garlic, honey has been a staple Superfood for centuries. Honey has many therapeutic qualities and acts as a powerful antibacterial. Bees which feed on flowers from the manuka tree produce Manuka Honey, which, applied as as topical dressing, is used to help heal wounds and combat infection. Manuka Honey has successfully been used to cure difficult to heal wounds which other methods have failed to improve, such as leg ulcers.
Brazil Nuts
Like Avocados, Brazil nuts are considered high in fat, but again, this is unsaturated fat, a “good” fat. Brazil nuts are a source of selenium, an antioxidant which is known to neutralize free radicals in the body. It only takes a couple of Brazil nuts a day to keep your selenium levels in a healthy range.
Olive Oil
Olive oil has become known as a key ingredient of the healthy and anti-aging Mediterranean diet. It can improve the function of blood vessels while keeping the heart healthy. Packed with monounsaturated fats, it helps to lower cholesterol levels. Furthermore, virgin olive oil contains an additional anti-inflammatory agent and may be of benefit to those suffering from arthritis.
Bananas
Jam packed with nutrition, a banana is a meal within a skin. Full of minerals, bananas are an excellent source of potassium and energy-providing carbohydrates, making them the ideal snack food for athletes or anyone engaged in vigorous work and physical activity.
Including as many of these fabulous Superfoods in your daily diet will greatly enhance your health, vitality and well being – as well as your longevity. Click on the image below to purchase your own Mediterranean diet secrets book:
