Superfoods 101

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Walnuts

One of the best sources of plant protein, walnuts are rich in fiber, B vitamins and the antioxidant Vitamin E. Compared to other nuts, walnuts have the highest concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, which make them a great food for combating heart disease. The next time you reach for a snack, grab a handful of walnuts or add them to your favorite spinach salad -- another superfood! -- recipe.

Salmon

The American Heart Association recommends eating at least two servings of fish a week. Salmon, due to its high fat content, is one of the best choices. After over a decade of supporting evidence that salmon helps lower blood cholesterol, it is no wonder it consistently occupies one of the top five spots on the list of superfoods. Due to the growing concerns over farmed salmon, use wild salmon when possible. It is important to know that almost all canned salmon is wild. The difference lies in mercury levels of farmed vs. wild.

Flax seeds

Another heart-healthy vegetarian source of omega-3 fatty acids, flax seeds are also a rich source of fiber and lignan, a type of antioxidant. This superfood has proved most beneficial in the prevention of cancer, particularly breast cancer. Add flax seeds to your diet by sprinkling them over yogurt and fruit or by adding them to muffin recipes.