Sometimes, it’s not until a person feels sick that they’re able to fully understand the sentiment that health is wealth. In addition to exercising and keeping stress at bay, your diet is one of the most impactful components of a healthy lifestyle. Try to look at food as your medicine. If you want to heal your body and maintain wellness, you’ll want to add the best superfoods to your meal plans. Add the following superfoods to your next grocery haul.
1. Salmon
Salmon is an incredible Solaire grills source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are critical in helping to maintain heart health as well as eye health. When you’re purchasing salmon, be sure to pick up the wild salmon instead of the farm-raised option in order to get the most benefits. Salmon can help in slowing down the signs of aging. If you’d like to get a considerable amount of protein in your diet, add salmon to the mix. Whether you grill it or pan-fry it, it pairs well with salads, wraps and more.
2. Blueberries
Blueberries are both sweet and small, but don’t let their size fool you. Blueberries make the list for multiple reasons. If you want to lower your risk of developing heart disease, cancer and other diseases, consume more berries like blueberries. Cancer and most diseases can only thrive where inflammation exists. In order to decrease the inflammation in your body, focus on consuming anti-inflammatory foods like blueberries. A great way to quickly consume them is by adding them to your morning smoothie. Along with some almond milk, superfood powder and other berries (strawberries, blackberries, etc.), you can create a powerful morning elixir that encourages optimal health.
3. Broccoli
Cruciferous vegetables are often touted for their ability to encourage gut health and lower inflammation. However, at the top of that list is broccoli. Broccoli stands on its own in its ability to maintain a ton of vitamins as well as fiber. Broccoli offers cancer-fighting antioxidants as well as a unique ability to assist in the balancing of hormones. In order to get the most nutrients from broccoli, it’s best to lightly steam it. For more flavor, add a dash of seasonings and some fresh lemon juice.
4. Sweet Potatoes
If you’re still consuming regular fries with your burger, it’s time to make the switch to sweet potato fries. This is primarily because sweet potatoes are considered superfoods. From encouraging a healthy immune system to helping with healthy skin and efficient vision, increasing your intake of sweet potatoes will directly impact the quality of your health. If you’re a woman who’s trying to reproduce, sweet potatoes are linked to a woman’s ability to reproduce.
5. Avocadoes
Avocadoes are commonly known as one of the best sources of unsaturated fat. Avocadoes are power players when it comes to feeling satiated after a meal. They also contain almost 20 different vitamins, such as Vitamin B6, Vitamin C and Potassium. If your diet could use more fiber, introduce avocadoes into the mix. Try avocado toast for breakfast or guacamole on top of your lunchtime tacos.
6. Nuts
Studies point to nuts serving as essential components in helping food digest properly. They contain unsaturated fat, protein and fiber. After you’ve consumed a delicious meal, eat a handful of nuts. Almonds, unsalted cashews and pistachios are excellent options. Add crushed pecans as a topping for a salad.
7. Green, Leafy Vegetables
Even though marketing ploys convinced millions that milk was a great source of calcium, green, leafy vegetables are some of the best sources of calcium. They also contain high amounts of potassium, fiber and magnesium. Magnesium is especially helpful for those who suffer from mental health issues such as depression. Consume green, leafy vegetables like kale, rainbow swiss chard and spinach in delicious salads, sandwiches and smoothies.
There are plenty of excellent superfoods to choose from. However, the key is consistency. You can’t eat healthy one day and take the next two days off. Try to take the 80/20 approach to your health. If you’re eating healthy foods 80% of the time, it’s okay to enjoy your guilty pleasures 20% of the time. In moderation, a glass of wine won’t hurt. As long as you maintain a diet that’s rich in superfoods, you’ll remain on the right track to optimal wellness.