You’ll spin when it’s dark out. Endure the sting that comes with wearing the perfect pair of heels. And work even when you’re not feeling so hot to save sick days for when you really need them…for the beach. All in all, you’re a pretty high functioning individual. Which is why when it comes to eating, you can easily choose the foods that have the same status.
Some studies show that functional foods (a.k.a. nutraceuticals) possess beneficial properties that go beyond the food label to promote optimal health, longevity and quality of life.
The “F” Word
You may not like the word, but fats make hormones, carry fat-soluble vitamins and provide essential fatty acids (LNA and DHA and EPA) among other critical jobs. So instead of avoiding fats, use:
Omega oil margarine spread on your veggies
Extra Virgin Olive Oil and flax seed oil in dressings
Flax seeds on your yogurts and cottage cheese
SPICE IT UP
Move passed salt when it comes to flavoring your mains. Shake 1/2 tsp. of cinnamon a day to reduce blood sugar. Experiment with circumin, tumeric and curry because they can potentially prevent cataracts, heart disease and cancer. And top your chicken with rosemary, one of the many antioxidant herbs, to protect skin and boost memory.
DRINK UP
Seep your mug with green, black and white teas whose flavanoids provide immune boosting compounds
DETOX WITH VEGGIES
All veggies are good, but broccoli, kale, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, shitake mushrooms, tomatoes and winter squash have potential detox enzymes and may prevent certain cancers.
ALL NATURAL AGAVE SUGAR
With a low Glycemic Index (slower blood sugar uptake), and concentrated real sugar properties (2/3 cup XAgave is just as sweet as 1 cup sugar), you only need to sprinkle just a little bit of XAgave nectar into coffee, tea and brownie mixes to give in to your sweet tooth, without overloading on the calories. Xagave also contains inulin–a water soluble prebiotic dietary fiber that promotes a healthy gut.
PROTEIN PLUS
You don’t have to go vegan, but choosing non-animal entrees like those containing soy protein, spirulina (algae) protein, beans and legumes are easier to digest, high in vitamins and amino acids and support immune system.
AN APPLE (AND SOME OTHER FRUITS) A DAY
Sometimes you have to play favorites when it comes to filling your fruit bowl. Apples, cherries, berries, citrus fruit and grapes are loaded with antioxidants, a key protector against certain cancers.
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