Blueberries:
All berries are little atom bombs of nutrition. Blueberries are so
very high in anti-oxidants that it's amazing - they are reported to help
one's vision, fight cancer, stave off memory loss and more. Running a
close second are strawberries, blackberries, cranberries and raspberries,
all brimming with cancer-fighting phytochemicals.
Red Beans:
This includes light and dark red beans, and especially pinto beans, the best
of all. They are packed with fiber, B-vitamins, protein and minerals.
Add small amounts to lots of foods; you'll be surprised at their
versatility.
Salmon:
Even farm-raised is good for you, but wild is the very best by far.
Herring, mackerel and sardines come in second. High in protein and
heart-healthy oils, they can help your heart and circulatory health.
Spinach:
This veggie is high in vitamins and minerals, plus important anti-oxidants
thought to prevent cancer and some other illness. All greens are great for
you, but spinach is the top dog. Think you don't like spinach?
Chopped frozen spinach generally needs some serious help, and off-brands or
store-brands are often, well... off. If this veggie is on your
"no way" list, buy some fresh baby spinach, steam lightly, butter and
surprise!
Fermented foods
(not heat-treated): These contain friendly bacterial for a healthy
gut, as well as many nutrients. Often B-12 is increased also.
Pasteurizing or canning destroys many of these healthy benefits.
Natural fermented pickles, pouches of non-pasteurized sauerkraut, yogurt
(look for live cultures), many natural cheeses, tamari soy sauce, miso,
tempeh, tofu*, and wine in moderation if you drink alcohol; you'll add variety and
nutrition to your diet. (* Tofu is often unfermented, but is
good for you anyway.)
Sneak these into your
diet and your family's foods; don't hit them over the head all at once if they
aren't currently eating them. Our recipe
section has many ways to painlessly introduce these powerhouse foods.
Don't turn down this sure-fire prescription for better health.
