Needing to revitalize the regular, good-for-you diet of chicken and broccoli? Try out some of the following superfoods that score big nutritional value!
- Guava. This tropical delight is especially high in fiber. The apple guava variety contains nearly four times more vitamin C than a single orange.
- Avocado. One fruit contains approximately 10 grams of fiber. According to a study in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, avocados contain enough lutein to stop cancer growth in a lab experiment. Lutein is also a powerful antioxidant contributing to good eye health.
- Chia Seeds. This delicately crunchy seed was cherished by the Aztecs and is known for its energy producing effects. Only one ounce contains approximately 11 grams of fiber and 5 grams of omega 3 essential fatty acids.
- Gooseberries. This tart berry is relatively low in sugar compared to most fruit, and high in cancer-fighting vitamin C and vitamin A. The purple variety contains almost 50 percent more antioxidants than blueberries.
- Ostrich Meat. While it comes from a bird, it tastes more like red meat and much leaner in saturated fat than steak or chicken. It is an excellent source of zinc, selenium, and iron.
- Walnuts. When eaten raw, only one ounce contains an adequate amount of the U.S. recommended daily amount of omega 3 oils. According to a study published in the British Medical Journal, eating walnuts regularly lead to a 35 percent reduced risk of coronary heart disease.
- Greek Yogurt. This low fat, creamy treat is significantly higher in protein, calcium and probiotics than regular yogurt. A study in the International Journal of Obesity found that dieters eating three servings a day of yogurt a day lost 22 percent more weight and 61 percent more body fat than dieters who did not eat yogurt.
- Artic Char. Closely related to salmon, this fish is milder in taste and boasts high levels of Omega 3 oils and protein.
- Prickly Pear Cactus. This savory plant is a rich source of fiber, vitamins A and C and potassium. A 2007 study in the Diabetes Care reported that prickly pear cactus can help reduce blood sugar levels.
- Cremini Mushrooms. This slightly darker shade of mushrooms is known for its rich flavor. A 2006 German study found that cremini mushrooms have several antimicrobial properties that could protect your body, from disease and infection.
