Stock up on superfoods this summer
It's amazing what a few small tweaks to your diet can do for your energy levels and overall sense of wellbeing. If you feel like you aren't getting enough nutrients and your body isn't functioning to its full potential, then it could be time to reach for the superfoods.
There are a number of foods that contain high levels of antioxidants, which can help to delay the signs of ageing, boost your immune system and reduce cholesterol levels. If you're concerned about the onset of fine lines and wrinkles, then you should consider stocking up on blueberries. Not only are they delicious to snack on, but they are packed full of ellegic acid, which can help to prevent abnormal changes to the body's cells.
Another fruit you should be eating plenty of are apples, which contain high levels of vitamin C, as well as pectin - a form of soluble fibre that helps to aid digestion and reduce cholesterol levels. Incorporating avocados into your diet can also be beneficial. Many people steer clear of these because they are relatively high in fat. However, it's important to remember that this is the monounsaturated variety, which is good for the heart. They also provide the antioxidant lutein - a nutrient that is thought to prevent cataracts and aid the cardiovascular system.
When it comes to vegetables, broccoli is the king of superfoods. It is packed full of sulforaphane, a substance that researchers believe has cancer-fighting properties. In addition, it's a great source of beta-carotene and potassium, as well as folic acid. Other vegetables that should form part of a healthy diet include onions and pumpkins, the latter of which is full of beta carotene, zinc and vitamin B5.
You may be pleased to learn that there are also health benefits associated with consuming wine and dark chocolate - although it's important not to overdo it. Cocoa contains antioxidant flavenoids, which are known to fight heart disease and cancer. Meanwhile, a small glass of merlot can help to reduce cholesterol levels. Don't be tempted to ruin your good work by polishing off the rest of the bottle though!
There are a number of foods that contain high levels of antioxidants, which can help to delay the signs of ageing, boost your immune system and reduce cholesterol levels. If you're concerned about the onset of fine lines and wrinkles, then you should consider stocking up on blueberries. Not only are they delicious to snack on, but they are packed full of ellegic acid, which can help to prevent abnormal changes to the body's cells.
Another fruit you should be eating plenty of are apples, which contain high levels of vitamin C, as well as pectin - a form of soluble fibre that helps to aid digestion and reduce cholesterol levels. Incorporating avocados into your diet can also be beneficial. Many people steer clear of these because they are relatively high in fat. However, it's important to remember that this is the monounsaturated variety, which is good for the heart. They also provide the antioxidant lutein - a nutrient that is thought to prevent cataracts and aid the cardiovascular system.
When it comes to vegetables, broccoli is the king of superfoods. It is packed full of sulforaphane, a substance that researchers believe has cancer-fighting properties. In addition, it's a great source of beta-carotene and potassium, as well as folic acid. Other vegetables that should form part of a healthy diet include onions and pumpkins, the latter of which is full of beta carotene, zinc and vitamin B5.
You may be pleased to learn that there are also health benefits associated with consuming wine and dark chocolate - although it's important not to overdo it. Cocoa contains antioxidant flavenoids, which are known to fight heart disease and cancer. Meanwhile, a small glass of merlot can help to reduce cholesterol levels. Don't be tempted to ruin your good work by polishing off the rest of the bottle though!
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