Superfoods we all need!

  We've all heard since we were kids to eat our fruits and veggies. Now, it is a well known fact that a serving of fruits or vegetables is key in a healthy diet. But, most of us were never told about a thing called a Superfood!

     So, what exactly is a Superfood? A Superfood is a nutrient-rich food which is said to be extremely beneficial to your overall health and well-being. These items tend to have higher levels of essential nutrients, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and enzymes that we need maintain a healthy functioning body! 

    For example, just one medium sized orange contains your ENTIRE recommended daily intake for Vitamin C. Isn't that crazy? Plus, Vitamin C is vital to keep your immune system running smoothly. 

    Here are some of the top Superfoods you need to add to your everyday diet: 

• Kale 

This green veggie is not only versatile in the many ways you can prepare it, but it is packed full of antioxidants; more than most other vegetables. It is also a great source of iron, calcium and fiber. It can be added to salad, steamed or even turned into a crunch snack!  

• Pineapple 

This sweet fruit is not only delicious, but can help reduce bloating and help break down food easier due to being high in the enzyme bromelain. 

• Apples 

The saying, "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" was no joke! This classic favorite is packed full of fiber and multiple B Vitamins. But, what most don't know is the skin of an apple contains high levels of quercetin. Quercetin is an antixoidant with antihistamines and strong anti-inflammatory powers. 

• Cauliflower 

Cauliflower, although lacking popularity, should not be looked over! This vegetable has tons of benefits. It is full of glucosinolates which are said to help prevent and fight certain cancers. The phytochemicals, which sometimes gives cauliflower a bitter taste, protects the lungs and stomach from carcinogens. 

• Watermelon 

This summertime favorite is high in lycopene, which protects your body from harmful chemicals sometimes found in pesticides on foods and is a great source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C. 

• Lentils 

Lentils are not only easy to prepare and cook, but they are full of protein, fiber and iron. The iron in lentils is said to help fight off anemia which a lot of vegans or vegetarians suffer from. It is also low on the glycemic index which will prevent blood sugar from rising like many other starches.

• Cherries

These little guys are not one to be looked over. The deep red color found in cherries is plentiful in an antioxadant called anthocyanin. Anthocyanin helps reduce inflammation, muscle pain and lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels. They also contain melatonin which can help you fall asleep easier. 

• Spinach

It's no wonder Popeye absolutely loved spinach! Spinach is full with antioxidants to help support bone health and vision. 

• Blackberries 

These berries are some of the most impressive Super-Fruits out there! They have some of the highest levels of antioxidants in fruit you can find. They are also rich in polyphenols. Polyphenols are said to help prevent cardiovasular disease, cancers and osteoporosis.