Maybe you’ve heard of Superfoods? I actually hadn’t, but apparently Dr. Steven Pratt wrote a book in 2004, detailing the virtues of foods that can fight disease. Sounds intriguing, right?
His list of foods includes sources of lean protein, fruits, vegetables, nuts and whole grains… sounds a lot like the recommended diet for good health! Here’s the list of Superfoods:
*Beans: these contain fiber and, according to Dr. Pratt, can help stave off obesity
*Blueberries: contain potentially cancer-preventing antioxidants
*Broccoli: another good source of fiber, and might prevent cataracts and birth defects
*Oats: may keep blood glucose levels in check, potentially preventing diabetes
*Oranges: another source of antioxidants, and might prevent a stroke
*Pumpkin: contains fiber and beta carotene, as well as antioxidants
*Wild Salmon: contains essential fatty acids, which are heart-healthy
*Soy: a lean source of protein, can lower cholesterol
*Spinach: a heart- and eye-healthy source of calcium, iron, and other important nutrients
*Tea: more antioxidants, and might prevent osteoporosis, according to Dr. Pratt
*Tomatoes: contain lycopene, and Dr. Pratt says they raise the skin’s natural SPF
*Turkey: another source of lean protein, and can strengthen the immune system
*Walnuts: a heart-healthy fat and source of protein
*Yogurt: contains calcium for strong bones, and is heart-healthy
While these foods are good for your health, British dietitian Christina Merryfield warns against limiting your diet to only the 14 foods listed above. You might not get all of the nutrients that you need if you limit your diet to only a handful of foods. Besides that, you will likely get bored with your diet if you stick to such a strict routine. For good health, choose a wide variety of fresh produce, low-fat dairy products, lean protein, legumes, nuts, and whole grains.
I know that I would soon grow bored if I limited myself to these 14 foods, but I do plan to incorporate more of them into my diet; eating moderate quantities of fresh, whole foods that contain fiber, antioxidants, and heart-healthy fat is a great way to keep your health — and your weight — in check!