As the holidays come to a close, the healthy eating begins! In 2017, make a resolution to add some of these superfoods to your diet, and start the new year off on the right foot. Here’s to a healthy and happy New Year!
Ten Superfoods for 2017:
1. Lemons – Lemons are good for you in so many ways: they’re fragrant, juicy and packed with vitamin C. They’re refreshing in ice water and they can bring out the flavor in all types of food…just squeeze and enjoy!
2. Blueberries – Don’t let their size fool you…these little berries pack a powerful punch! Loaded with antioxidants, they’re low in fat and a good source of vitamin C, potassium and fiber.
3. Avocados – Often labelled as the “healthy fat,” the avocado is a high fiber fruit that is a great alternative to mayo, oil or butter. Mash it into your tuna salad or spread it on some toast for a tasty treat! Might we add, it’s also delicious on its own…go on, grab a spoon and eat up!
4. Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes, or yams, when cooked without oil and butter, contain a ton of fiber, vitamins and minerals. Experts say that they can also lower blood pressure and do not lead to weight gain if consumed moderately.
5. Carrots – Carrots are great for your eyesight, particularly for night vision. This is due to the antioxidant, beta-carotene, which is transformed into vitamin A. In addition to improved eyesight, vitamin A protects from sun damage, promoting healthier, glowing skin. Start chomping!
6. Salmon – Salmon is loaded with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which helps your brain work better and improves your memory! It is also packed with vitamins A, B and D as well as calcium, iron and phosphorus.
7. Walnuts – Walnuts also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have been found to effectively lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Did you know? Even though they are high in calories and contain fat, they can actually help you lose weight! The fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals boost your health and help you avoid overeating foods that are high in calories, but low in nutrition. Go on and get crackin’!
8. Garlic – Aside from being one of the most important ingredients in the culinary arts, garlic has been a proven superfood for centuries around the world. Its benefits include vitamins, minerals, and it’s o tons of antioxidants. Add garlic to your diet now — your body (not so much your breath!) will thank you.
9. Spinach – The elders were right when they told you to eat those bright green leaves! Spinach is packed with vitamins, minerals, iron, protein, and super low in calories. Add it to your morning smoothies for an added pep to your step!
10. Olive oil – Fans of the Mediterranean diet have long touted that olive oil intake decreases the risk of heart disease. Why? Because olive oil is full of a type of antioxidant that has anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect your cells from damage. In fact, the same antioxidants that heal your internal cells, help protect your outer layer of cells from damage too – which is why you can find olive oil in some skin moisturizers and nail products!
