We all know that diet is a huge component in achieving fitness results. Adding superfoods can help you to make every calorie count as they are chock full of nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Try incorporating some or all of the superfoods below, if you haven’t already in your regular diet so that you can fight: aging, free radicals, inflammation and disease.

 

1. Blueberries

Widely known for their antioxidant properties blueberries really pack a punch. Blueberries also contain catchetins which help your body burn fat, particularly in the abdominal area.

 

2. Sweet Potatoes

Have a multitude of vitamins and minerals making them a powerhouse of nutrition. Rich in vitamin B6, D, iron and magnesium the benefits are great for having an improved immune system.

 

3. Chia

High in fibre their seeds help you stay full. Fibre is important to feed good gut bacteria and is important to good digestion and overall health.

 

4. Avocado

Is a popular fruit high in healthy fats that lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) and increases good cholesterol (HDL). Comprised of mostly oleic acid, which is also found in heart healthy olive oil, avocadoes.

 

5. Spinach

Cooking this leafy green will actually increase its health benefits by threefold.  Full of flavonoids, spinach helps your body protect the colon from free radicals. The only caution with spinach is that it can block absorption of calcium and iron, so ensure you eat it (or drink it in your smoothie) with the accompaniament of vitamin C.

 

6. Acai Berries

As potent as red wine, Acai berries contain high levels of anthocyanins which are credited with lowering cholesterol and improving circulation.

 

7. Kale

Nutrient rich kale is considered one of the most nutrient dense foods you can consume, all while being low in fat and calories. One cup of kale contains more than your daily requirements of: vitamin A, K, and vitamin C.

 

8. Pomegranates

Pomegranates are often consumed in pomegranate juice, but are also great to include in salads for a burst of flavour. Pomegranates have numerous beauty benefits like slowing aging, softening skin, and improving skin texture, but they are also known for health benefits like acting as a natural blood thinner, and even potential cancer fighting effects.

 

9. Flax seeds

Flax seeds have been a health food popular since ancient Babylon. Flax can be ground and added to many foods like smoothies, oatmeal and baking. The most common preventative uses of flax are: to reduce heart disease, cancer and diabetes and stroke.

 

10. Garlic

Commonly used in many recipes the benefits of garlic have long been known by alternative medicine practitioners.  The main ingredient touted for its health benefits is allicin, which is a sulfuric compound released when garlic is chopped or crushed and responsible for its distinctive smell. Allicin is known for its antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral properties.