8 superfoods that contribute to a healthy living

8 superfoods that contribute to a healthy living

Nutrient-dense foods that are considered beneficial for health are considered superfoods. These superfoods are packed with vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients that help achieve optimal health. They provide the body with ample antioxidants and assist the system in fighting off free radical damage. Including these superfoods regularly in the menu can help prevent the onset of chronic inflammation and other health conditions. Remember to choose high-quality, organic, and fresh options when possible.

Before discussing eight popular superfoods, we highlight two lesser-known options for healthy living: spirulina and wheatgrass.

Spirulina is a type of algae considered a great source of vitamins B1, B2, B3, iron, copper, magnesium, and other essential nutrients necessary for optimal body function. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and even anticancer properties that reduce the oxidative damage done to cells. In addition, spirulina promotes cardiovascular health, supports the immune system, provides allergy relief, and even maintains eye health.

Wheatgrass is an excellent source of natural iron, selenium, magnesium, calcium, and vitamins A, C, E, K, and B6. Its extract is used to make a juice that promotes immunity, helps the body detox, and even prevents common diseases. Wheatgrass is commonly used for managing fever, cold, cough, common digestive problems, and even skin conditions.

Now, on to the other commonly-found superfoods:

Salmon
Omega 3 fatty acid-containing foods are considered superfoods for optimal brain health. They also play a significant role in proper heart functioning and reduce inflammation levels in the body. Regular intake of fatty fish like salmon, sardine, mackerel, and tuna can help reduce the risk of heart diseases, stroke, chronic conditions, and some cancers. Salmon is also an excellent protein source to balance meals and repair damaged tissues.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients linked to various health benefits. Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may also help improve memory and cognitive function. Including these foods in one’s daily meal plan can be an effective way to support one’s overall health and well-being.

Spinach
Components like vitamins A, K, and iron form a considerable part of spinach. This green leafy vegetable is ulcer rich in antioxidants and promotes reduced inflammation levels in the body while helping fight chronic health conditions. Its high vitamin K levels also contribute to healthy bones.

Avocado
Full of vital nutrients, avocados are one of the tastiest superfoods one can have daily. It is packed with healthy fat, fiber, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins B6, C, E, and K. Adding avocado to the menu adds a superfood that helps maintain optimal heart health, promotes healthy digestion, and regulates blood sugar levels.

Greek Yogurt
Regular intake of greek yogurt can help promote healthy gut and digestion. Greek yogurt adds probiotics, protein, and calcium to any meal. It is also a great source of increasing the amount of daily antioxidant intake. In addition, the high antioxidant content of a meal is responsible for lowering inflammatory levels in the body and preventing chronic diseases.

Almonds
Almonds and other nuts, such as walnuts and cashews, have a healthy fat, protein, and fiber ratio. They also pack essential vitamins and minerals to maintain optimal physical and mental health. Nuts are rich in potassium, magnesium, vitamin A, and vitamin E, making them a superfood to be included for optimal health. Including nuts regularly helps regulate blood sugar levels, improve heart health, and lower inflammation.

Broccoli
One of the healthiest cruciferous vegetables, broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals. Its high antioxidant content helps reduce inflammation and protects against chronic illnesses. Broccoli is rich in vitamin C, which contributes to healthy immunity. Potassium in broccoli helps maintain healthy nerve and muscle conditions.

Sweet potato
Sweet potatoes are a source of multiple vitamins and minerals, including potassium, Vitamin A, and vitamin C. Their high antioxidant ratio helps the body fight oxidative damage and high inflammatory levels. Moreover, their high fiber content promotes healthy digestion and helps maintain regulated blood sugar levels.

Turmeric
Turmeric is packed with anti-inflammatory properties and is a source of potent antioxidants. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has been found effective against high inflammatory levels in the body. It is also believed to be helpful against chronic conditions such as Alzheimer’s and cancer. If the superfood is not readily available, it can also be used as a supplement for optimal health.

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Hyperkalemia – 10 foods to avoid

Potassium plays a huge role in the health of our heart muscles and nerve cells. And high levels of this element in the blood cause hyperkalemia. If you consume meals high in potassium, your doctor may advise you to decrease portion sizes and concentrate on fruits and vegetables with a lower potassium content. Here is a list of foods rich in potassium that must be avoided if you have hyperkalemia. Yogurt and dairy products A serving of nonfat yogurt weighing eight ounces has roughly 625 mg of potassium, making it one of the dairy aisle's highest sources of potassium. Even reduced fat milk contains 366 mg of potassium in a glass of cow's whole milk. Ricotta and cottage cheese are also high in potassium. Goat cheese is a low potassium food, proving that not all cheeses are made equal. Likewise, About 131 milligrams of potassium may be found in a half cup of vanilla ice cream. Bananas When people consider foods high in potassium, bananas frequently come to mind. A banana normally contains 422 mg of potassium. Among all the fruit, bananas are athletes' favorite as they provide energy. However, it could be highly dangerous for someone suffering from hyperkalemia. Consult your doctor if you have hyperkalemia and stick to fruits such as apples and berries. Leafy vegetables About 420 milligrams of potassium can be found in only a half cup of cooked spinach. Raw spinach, young or mature, has roughly 167 mg per cup. Fennel, bok choy, beet greens, and Swiss chard are also high in potassium. You can opt for kale instead. Kale has more nutrients than these other dark leafy greens, but it has less potassium. 73 mg is present in one cup of raw kale. Fish Clams, which provide 534 mg of potassium in just 3 ounces, are the finest source of protein from seafood. Around three ounces of skipjack tuna offers 444 mg, another major source of potassium. One of the most popular fish, salmon, frequently has a lower potassium content. Keeping a check on what type of fish you are eating if you have hyperkalemia is a must. Kidney beans Beans are a balanced addition to any meal plan as they're rich sources of protein and fiber. However, according to data from the USDA, one cup of the kidney-shaped type has 713 mg of potassium. A half-cup of black beans has 489 mg of potassium. Avocado This creamy, green-fleshed fruit is packed with 690 mg of potassium and is high in fiber and heart-healthy lipids. Although it might seem good for your heart, you should avoid it if you have hyperkalemia. Potatoes Potassium is heavily concentrated in potatoes; 925 milligrams of potassium may be found in a baked potato. A three-ounce portion of french-fried potatoes has 470 mg of potassium and a lot of fat and calories. The potassium content in an ounce of potato chips is 465 mg. Indulging in fast foods like fries is adverse for those with hyperkalemia. Oranges A single orange has 240 mg of potassium, making it a food with a high potassium content. With 450 mg per 8 oz glass, orange juice is a more potent source of potassium. Fruits vary in their potassium content. Berries are a poor source of potassium and can be a decent substitute for oranges and orange juice. Another good option is apples. Dried fruits The nutrients in fruit, including potassium, that have been dried are concentrated. You get roughly 750 milligrams from half a cup of dried apricots. Also, even though raisins and dried plums make a fantastic snack, they should be avoided by someone with hyperkalemia. Legumes and beans Legumes are a significant source of potassium as well. White beans have the most, with 600 mg of potassium in a half cup. In half a cup serving, other legumes such as lima beans and pinto beans have between 300 and 350 mg.

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6 foods that worsen acid reflux in EoE patients

Esophagus is a tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an immune system disorder where the stomach acid backs up into one’s esophagus and inflames the organ’s sensitive tissues. Research shows that EoE is likely to affect men more than women. Recognized as a leading cause of digestive system illness, EoE is usually triggered by certain foods. Patients are thus recommended to tailor their meals to avoid flare-ups. Foods to avoid to ease EoE symptoms Symptoms of EoE In addition to acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), patients with EoE may exhibit other symptoms like vomiting, pain, and difficulty swallowing solid foods. Children and infants may experience stunted growth and body mass loss. Adults may have chest pain and heartburn, while older children may experience lower appetite and gastrointestinal pain. Foods to avoid for EoE The therapy for EoE patients usually involves eliminating all foods that trigger the condition and gradually reintroducing them into the meal plan to determine the main cause. Once a healthcare professional recognizes which food is causing the reflux, they may suggest long-term alternatives for those foods. Milk and other dairy products According to research, one of the main variables that inflame the body and worsen EoE is milk. An EoE patient’s immune system may identify milk proteins as dangerous and cause an allergic response. So, it is advised to cut out dairy items like cheese, buttermilk, ice cream, condensed milk, mayonnaise, yogurt, cream, and butter from one's daily food intake until the cause of the illness has been recognized. One can choose dairy-free options until then, like vegan cheese made of tapioca starch and nutritional yeast, or coconut or almond milk. Foods and beverages with added sugar Fructose-rich drinks like regular soda, energy drinks, sweetened fruit drinks, and sweetened tea or coffee are best avoided until the source of one’s flare-ups is recognized. Sugary drinks lack fiber, protein, and other minerals and are easily absorbed by the body. These items raise the body's uric acid levels and cause weight and metabolic problems while also worsening the symptoms of EoE. Similarly, foods that contain artificial sweeteners, refined sugar, and corn syrup are also best avoided. Those with a sweet craving can replace these items with fresh fruits like apples, pears, and cherries. Purine-rich foods Certain foods like dry beans, red meat, seafood, turkey, mushrooms, cauliflower, and sardines naturally contain purines. The body produces uric acid while digesting these foods. One may experience a spike in one’s uric acid levels after consuming them. So, it’s best to avoid them. Chili and hot pepper Hot and spicy meal ingredients like peppers and chilies contain high levels of capsaicin, which, according to research, may lead to heartburn in some people. Coffee The body produces gastric secretions when one consumes coffee. These secretions are very acidic in nature and can cause heartburn. One can substitute coffee with herbal teas, fresh fruit juices, or plain water until the condition is managed. Chocolate and other high-fat foods It’s best to avoid high-fat foods like chocolate, potato chips, bacon, cheese, and fried foods. The valve-like muscles that prevent the stomach contents from going back into the esophagus loosen or relax after eating them. The stomach also takes longer to digest and eliminate them from the body, making the esophagus tissues more vulnerable. Apart from food, environmental variables like pollen inhalation may also cause allergic EoE responses in some people. Some EoE patients may notice that their symptoms worsen during the common allergy seasons of spring and summer. Other risk factors for the condition include an extremely cold and dry environment, a family history of EoE, and chronic respiratory diseases like asthma.

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