Lovingly Created in Cranford, New Jersey since 1929

It’s a Bird…It’s a Plane…It’s Superfoods!

Now that it’s nearly April, we think it’s time to celebrate spring! As you begin to shake off the dreary winter weather, you may feel like shaking up your eating habits. Clean up your diet and boost your energy levels by indulging in some superfoods!

Superfoods are items that contain exceptional  nutritional value. Often, these foods promote heart health by lowering cholesterol levels. Many superfoods also offer powerful antioxidants that some experts believe reduce your cancer risk, bolster your immune system and even punch up your good mood!

There are quite a few superfoods out there. Not sure which ones to pick? Here’s a list of some of our favorite superfoods here at NutsOnline! Try them on their own or paired with yogurt, salads, smoothies, cereal or trail mix.

  • Dark chocolate: Who doesn’t love the rich, semi-sweet flavor of dark chocolate? This treat may seem like a naughty indulgence, but it’s actually quite good for you in reasonable amounts. Dark chocolate is high in flavonoids, a compound that increases blood flow, improves memory and hydrates skin. Cocoa phenols in the chocolate also help lower blood pressure. The darker the chocolate is, the more phenols it contains. Studies have shown that dairy products may interfere with absorption of these helpful phenols, which is one reason why milk chocolate is not effective in the same manner. Get your fix with some dark chocolate covered almonds.
  • Goji berries: These fruits, also known as wolfberries, are usually sold in dried or juice form. Goji are packed with antioxidants that can lower your risk of serious diseases, including cancer and heart disease. In ancient times, goji berries were also touted as anti-aging. Some modern scientists do agree that the fruit appears to at least slightly slow the aging process by minimizing the effect of free radicals that injure cells and damage DNA. Dried goji berries are delicious, or you can combine the power of two superfoods with dark chocolate covered goji berries.
  • Walnuts: This is the member of the nut family with the highest amount of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids, which cannot be produced by the body, lower cholesterol, promote better cardiovascular function, contribute to better cognitive function and aid joints, skin and muscles as an anti-inflammatory. Walnuts also contain melatonin, an antioxidant that helps you sleep more soundly. Get these benefits in their purest form by munching on raw English walnuts or organic mixed nuts.
  • Figs: This fruit is chock full of potassium, a mineral that can help control blood pressure. Figs also are a great source of dietary fiber, which can help you lose weight and feel full longer. They’re packed with calcium as well. Sweet dried Turkish figs will relieve sugar cravings naturally, without loading you up on preservatives and chemical sweeteners.
  • Chia seeds: These tiny seeds are rapidly rising stars in the superfood world. Chia seeds were a staple energy food for the Aztecs, who carried them on long journeys because of the seeds’ ability to provide them with strength and endurance. Chia seeds are crammed with protein, fiber, calcium and fatty acids. When soaked in water they can absorb up to 30 times their weight in liquid, which will help you feel full, remain hydrated and lose weight.

One Response to “It’s a Bird…It’s a Plane…It’s Superfoods!”

Comments are closed.