Super foods

By Nelly Obadha

The human body is in constant need of nourishment, thus the need to always eat healthy and nutritious foods. Super foods contain a high amount of nutrients required by the body. Most of these foods are effective in their natural forms, but some need to be cooked before eating.

Here are some well known super foods.

Garlic and onion

Garlic is known for its health benefits to the blood and the heart. It helps to clean the blood, which in turn alleviates heart attacks, strokes and high blood pressure. Garlic also contains antioxidants that help in the prevention of many forms of cancer. It also boosts the immune system.

Onions are a great source of flavonoids that act as anti-oxidants and boost the immune properties of the body. Other benefits include thinning the blood thus lowering cholesterol levels. Studies have also shown that onions act as detoxifiers from heavy metals that infiltrate our bodies.

Dark green vegetables

Vegetables are generally known for their great health benefits, but dark green vegetables are more nutritious. They contain vitamins and minerals that help in the healing processes of the body and also protect the body from infections. They are rich in minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium that are needed for physical development.

The vitamins found in such vegetables include vitamins K, C, E and B.

Vegetables are also low in calories, meaning one doesn’t have to worry about gaining weight. They also contain plant nutrients such as folic acid and beta carotene that protect body cells from damage and age-related problems.

Veggies are also a great source of natural fibres that aid in the process of digestion.

Fish

Fish is widely known for its great source of omega-3 fats and oils that are needed for body development, especially the brain. It helps prevent memory loss.

Fruits and nuts

Fruits and nuts have high levels of vitamins and anti-oxidants. Nuts are rich in omega-3 fats that control the uptake of harmful cholesterol. It also contains Vitamin E that reduces cancer occurrence as well as cardiovascular diseases. Fruits and nuts also contain foliate and Vitamin B that help in prevention of heart diseases and heart defects.

Fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants and many other nutrients. Fruits usually appeal to the eyes and taste buds because of their colourful nature and sweetness. They are also low in calories, contain simple sugars and have plenty of fibres. All these components help in physical development, cell rejuvenation and boost the immune system.

Legumes

Legumes are the most common foods in the world. They are accessible and affordable. They contain soluble fibres and are rich in proteins folic acids, copper, iron magnesium and low on fats levels. The common foods found in this group include beans and lentils.