Try these six superfoods for better health
The term “superfood” is often tossed into conversation as if these foods are new innovations. But in reality, most superfoods are familiar items at the grocery store. The superfood status has been bestowed upon them because they have a high concentration of nutrients, vitamins or minerals that are beneficial. Some superfoods also include antioxidants, enzymes and other properties that can help prevent some diseases. Intentionally including superfoods in your diet can boost nutritional value and provide health benefits. Here are six superfoods to consider eating more frequently.
Blueberries and their friends
Blueberries get their color from powerful antioxidants that go on patrol in your body for harmful molecules that can damage DNA and contribute to cancer development. Blueberries can also improve short-term memory and help with healthy aging. These little round powerhouses are also rich in vitamins and fiber. All berry families are good to include in your diet. One cup of raspberries has about eight grams of fiber and a cup of strawberries provides more than a full day’s supply of vitamin C. The berries don’t have to be eaten plain. Try adding them to a salad or on top of your cereal or oatmeal.
Go nuts
Nuts contain healthy polyunsaturated fats and magnesium which both help your heart stay healthy. These same nutrients may also reduce insulin resistance to reduce the chance of developing diabetes. Nuts can also reduce inflammation and provide fiber. The top nut these days are almonds, which are packed with fiber, riboflavin, magnesium, iron and calcium. They are rich in the healthy fat that can help lower cholesterol. Almonds and other nuts can be easily slipped into your meals by sprinkling them on your salad, adding them to your chicken salad or using them as a casserole topping.
Not only for Thanksgiving
Many people look forward to sweet potatoes at Thanksgiving dinner but this superfood should be coming to dinner more often. That lovely orange color comes from beta carotene, which changes to vitamin A in the body to slow aging and reduce cancer risk. Sweet potatoes also have vitamin C, B-6 and potassium. If you leave off the marshmallows and butter, a half of a sweet potato only has about 81 calories. So, skip the fries and enjoy sweet potato instead.
Vegetable king
Broccoli is a rich source of vitamins A, C and K. Broccoli can help with bone health, preserve eye health and reduce cancer risk. Although it has top status, all cruciferous vegetables like Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage and kale, deserve a place on your plate. They all are potent disease fighters.
The old favorite
Apples have been celebrated for decades for being the ideal superfood. Apples are a good source of soluble fiber, which helps with lowering cholesterol and glucose levels. They are also packed with vitamin C that protects cells, help with the formation of collagen for healthy blood vessels and aid in the body’s ability to absorb iron. Apples have been found to fight asthma and are beneficial to bone health too.
Good for the gut
Yogurt with active cultures is a good addition to a diet because they provide probiotics, the friendly bacteria that aids in digestion of food. Some probiotics also help boost the immune system. Yogurt also provides calcium, vitamin B-12, vitamin B-2, potassium and magnesium. Eating yogurt can help prevent osteoporosis and reduce the risk of high blood pressure.
When good nutrition is crucial
Eating healthy food can help prevent many diseases, and it can also help in the healing process. After surgery or a medical event, eating properly can be a challenge but a proper diet is an important part of the healing process. One way to be sure of securing the proper nutrition following surgery or a hospital stay is to choose to recover in a short-term care facility where there are dietitians ready to create ideal meals to help regain strength and promote healing.
There are many short-term care options but one of the area top choices is Whitehall of Deerfield where there is an on-staff registered dietitian ensuring that each dish is as nutritious as it is appetizing. Special diet requests can also be filled by the staff of talented chefs. Guests can enjoy their meals either in an elegant sunny solarium or in the privacy of their own room. For special occasions with family and friends, reservations can be made to dine in the replica of Chicago’s famous Pump Room that is part of Whitehall of Deerfield’s unique amenities.
As the North Shore’s premier rehabilitation center, Whitehall of Deerfield offers an unparalleled recovery experience. Guests receive personalized one-on-one physical, occupational and speech therapies seven days a week from a team of top therapists who ensure patients are getting the best care possible. The latest techniques, as well as expert pain management and wound care, are provided to help make the stay as short and safe as possible.
Guests feel pampered at this elegant rehabilitation center by an attentive staff. Guest rooms feature attractive furnishings, WiFi, concierge service, in-room dining, Starbucks coffee and snacks, exclusive 24-hour movie channel, delivery of a daily newspaper and more. A gourmet coffee shop and ice cream parlor also offers complimentary baked goods and ice cream treats throughout the day.
For an effective recovery, choose Whitehall of Deerfield. Visit whitehallofdeerfield.com or call 847-729-9090 for additional information.