You are what you eat.
That isn’t just a saying; it’s a true scientific fact. Eat a healthy, nutritious diet and your body will have the fuel it needs to get through the day and stay well. Indulge a little too much in things like saturated fat, sugar, and salt, and you make it harder for your body to overcome even the smallest hurdles it encounters.
There’s even evidence that some foods may directly increase risks for cancer, heart disease, lung disease, and hormone problems (including Diabetes) later in life.
It all sounds rather dark and dreary, doesn’t it? But take heart; you aren’t doomed to eat lettuce leaves and carrots for the rest of your life In fact, eating for health can actually be pretty exciting – especially when it comes to tasty superfoods.
From endorphin-producing chocolate to a bowl of blueberries in fresh coconut milk, including these delicious foods can help you live better every single day.
Dark Chocolate
Do you find that when you indulge in a chocolate bar, you feel happier and more relaxed? That’s because chocolate stimulates the production of endorphins in the body, lifting your emotions and triggering positive feelings. Chocolate also contains powerful antioxidants. This helps lower blood pressure and improve blood flow, reducing heart disease risk.
Plant-Based Foods
A plant-based diet is a healthy way to keep your body working at top form. Research also shows that it can help reduce cognitive decline as you age. The goal is to cut back on red meats, sugars and processed food. Replace them with nutrient-rich, plant-based foods like whole grains, beans and veggies.
Don’t forget your greens. Kale, arugula and chard are loaded with vitamins like A and C and provide a good source of folate, which is good for the metabolism. Overall, a plant-based diet can lead to a longer, healthy life.
Yogurt
The health benefits of consuming yogurt focuses on gut health. Adding this live probiotic culture to your daily diet can provide helpful gut microbiota, which may prevent digestive issues like upset stomach and bloating. Yogurt contains calcium and protein and is packed with vitamins to help boost energy and performance. It also promotes bone growth and health, which can help protect you from osteoporosis.
Fish
If you love seafood, especially fish, you’ve already incorporated a healthy choice into your daily meal. Check out some of these healthy types to try:
- Salmon.
- Tilapia.
- Tuna.
- Rainbow trout.
- Sardines.
Fish can help you live a longer, happier life because of their numerous health benefits. They lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation and lower the risk of developing heart disease. Fish are a lean source of protein, minerals and omega-3 fatty acids, healthy fats that the body needs to function properly.
Blueberries
The phytonutrient content in blueberries is important for optimal heart health. There’s no cholesterol in this fruit, and the fiber it contains helps reduce existing cholesterol, greatly decreasing your risk of developing heart disease. This superfood is loaded with plenty of potassium, vitamins B6 and C as well as folate. Eating blueberries every day may add to a longer lifespan because of its countless health benefits.
We all want a long and happy life. Part of that is taking charge of what we put into our bodies. Try adding these yummy foods to your diet and see what a difference they can make for you.
Copyright 2019, DailyProsper.com
