8 Superfoods to Live a Healthy Life

A diet consisting of various types of fruits, vegetables, grains, healthy proteins, and essential fats provides the body with nutrients that are needed to maintain optimum health. Some of the most nutritional foods that are also referred to as superfoods are listed below.

Apples

Apples are full of numerous vitamins, mineral and plant compounds. Moreover, they are among those rare fruits that can be consumed even by diabetics. This is because apples have low glycemic index. Pectin, which is a soluble fiber contained in an apple, helps to ease bowel movement and also improves the functioning of your digestive system. Pectin also helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by lowering the level of blood cholesterol. The antioxidants that are present in an apple are capable of protecting your body from oxidative stress, which is one of the leading causes of many illnesses.

Blueberries

Blueberries are very rich in antioxidants and are often recommended to reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems and cancers. The flavonoids that are contained in blueberries reduce inflammation and ease the symptoms of arthritis.

Beans

Beans are among the richest sources of protein, fiber, iron, and calcium. Their fiber content helps to lower blood cholesterol level, eases bowel movement, prevents overeating, and reduces the risk of colon cancer.

Olive Oil

Being rich in monounsaturated fat, olive oil helps to lower the risk of heart disease by increasing the level of high-density lipoprotein in the blood. It also contains antioxidants that are known to prevent against harmful free radicals.

Broccoli

Phytochemicals present in broccoli can help to protect against age related macular degeneration, cancers, and heart problems. It also reduces inflammation, lowers cholesterol level, and promotes liver detoxification.

Tomato

Tomato contains two powerful antioxidant nutrients: lycopene and vitamin C. Both of these are known to reduce the risk of  various types of cancers and neurological diseases, improve cardiovascular function, and strengthen the bones.

Yogurt

Yogurt reduces the risk of infections, improves digestion, and helps to maintain the balance of healthy bacteria in the gut. Being a very rich source of calcium, yogurt promotes strong bones.

Salmon

Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential fats that are beneficial for cardiovascular system, cognitive health and joints. These fats also help to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

Green Tea

Although not a food, drinking two cups of green tea every day can improve your health in a number of ways. The powerful antioxidant flavonoids present in green tea are known to reduce the risk of cancer. Green tea is also known for its ability to reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels.