What are superfoods? 10 best Superfoods

Chickpeas

Chickpeas are pulses that contain low-fat protein, soluble fibre, iron, potassium and folic acid. The soluble fibre helps reduce blood cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease, also protecting against diabetes and certain cancers, particularly bowel cancer. Include these and other dried beans and lentils, which have similar health benefits, in your diet.

Oranges

These juicy fruits are extremely rich in vitamin C, betacarotene and folic acid, as well as many other phytochemicals and antioxidants that help protect the body against diseases such as cancer and heart disease. The pectin found in the membranes between the segments of oranges may also help reduce levels of harmful blood cholesterol.
Grate the zest of an orange into bakes, salad dressings and salads, as it is also believed to contain substances that help lower levels of harmful cholesterol in the blood. Include grapefruit and other members of the citrus family in your diet as they have similar health benefits.

Garlic

Garlic has antiviral, antifungal and antibiotic properties and studies have shown that it may help protect the body against heart disease, lower blood cholesterol and blood pressure, and help prevent blood clots and cancer, especially stomach cancer. Fresh garlic should be crushed or chopped to help release allicin, the substance that is responsible for some of its health benefits.

Almonds

These nuts contain monounsaturated fats, which help lower blood cholesterol. They are also rich in vitamin E, which is important for healthy skin, has anti-ageing properties and helps protect against Alzheimer's disease. Almonds also contain significant amounts of magnesium and potassium, which help keep your arteries healthy and blood pressure under control. Including unsalted, unroasted nuts, especially almonds, in your diet, will also help reduce the risk of heart disease.

Blueberries

Blueberries contain powerful antioxidants that help slow down the ageing process and help your body fight diseases such as Alzheimer's and heart disease, by helping to lower harmful cholesterol levels in the blood. They are also believed to help protect the body against cystitis and other urinary tract infections. Other berries such as strawberries and cranberries are also packed with health-boosting antioxidants, so enjoy plenty of them when they are in season.

Disclaimer

This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or for the care that you receive from your doctor or other health professionals. If you are concerned about your health you should consult your doctor.

This information has been reproduced with kind permission Zahra Publishing, publishers of Easy Health. www.easyhealth.ie