You may be eating health food and not even know it.
A national nonprofit weight-loss support group recently named ten “super foods” that you may already have on your home. The list was generated by TOPS Club, Inc., which stands for Take Off Pounds Sensibly.
Here are the foods and why they are considered super...
BeansBeans (also known as legumes), including kidney, black, white and red beans, chick peas, and lentils, are a powerful source of protein and complex carbohydrates, as well as fiber and important vitamins and minerals. Eating beans has been proven to help reduce cholesterol levels, body weight, the risk of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and some instances of cancer. Add a variety of beans to your meal, whether they are fresh, frozen, canned, or dried.
CeleryCelery is a simple, yet important vegetable, offering vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that can reduce cholesterol and protect against cancer. Add celery to soups, stews, meats, side dishes, and other meals.
GarlicWith a distinct flavor and fragrance, garlic contains anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties that protect against heart disease, reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and provide anti-clotting features. It also offers vitamins C and B6, manganese, and selenium.
OnionWhether they’re sliced, diced, chopped, or pureed, onions have a pungent flavor and a lot of nutrition, containing fiber, minerals, and vitamins C and B6. There has also been research to learn more about onions’ polyphenol and sulfur compounds, which may reduce the risk of cancer and boost immune function and heart health.
PeasGreen and yellow vegetables, including green peas, are often associated with reducing the risk of heart disease. Garden, snow, snap, dried, and other varieties of peas are also loaded with vitamins A, C, K, and B, minerals, fiber, and protein. They are a great source for eye-healthy compounds beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Include peas in a soup or stew, toss them into a salad, or eat them as a snack.
Black PepperThis common spice is a great way to boost a meal’s flavor without adding calories. Also, capsaicin, the substance that gives pepper its heat, is known for its anti-cancer properties and inflammation reduction, which is the root of chronic disease. Use ground, cracked, or whole versions of pepper.
Bell PepperBell peppers come in a variety of vibrant colors – green, red, yellow, orange, and purple. Peppers offer powerful anti-oxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which can help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of certain cancers. Enjoy cooked or raw peppers and their many health benefits.
Sunflower SeedsSunflower seeds are a good source of vitamin E, which serves as an anti-oxidant and contains anti-inflammatory properties. They also offer B vitamins, heart-healthy polyunsaturated oil, manganese, magnesium, selenium, and phytosterols, a compound known to reduce blood cholesterol levels. Add sunflower seeds to a fresh salad, mix them into chicken salad, sprinkle them over meat, or grind them up for a spread.
Sesame SeedsSesame seeds are a rich source of copper, which can provide arthritis relief. They also contain calcium and magnesium, which may lower blood pressure, protect against osteoporosis, and more. Mix them with steamed vegetables, sautéed fish or chicken, or add sesame seeds to homemade bread.
Canned TomatoesCanned tomatoes are not only a versatile ingredient, but they are also a powerhouse of anti-oxidants and nutrients, including lycopene, vitamin C, fiber, potassium, and iron. Keep some in your pantry for pasta and rice dishes, soups, stews, casseroles, ethnic meals, and other concoctions.
