10 Power Packed Foods You'll Love Power Packed Foods

What is the secret of a long and healthy life? It is in the food that we eat. As you well know, not all foods are created equal. Choosing and eating the right foods can increase your life expectancy as well as your quality of life.

Here are ten of the top power packed foods designed to give you energy, vitality and good health!

 

Power Packed Foods

1. Beans - If they give you gas, take precautions before eating them. Soaking them first can help. All types of legumes (kidney, navy, lentils, chickpeas, northern) are rich in protein. It is a plant protein so it contains very little fat, carbs and calories. If fiber in your diet is a problem, eating a healthy portion of beans daily can help keep your digestive system healthy.

2. Oatmeal – Oatmeal is becoming increasingly popular as a food that lowers blood cholesterol. You can make it yourself with rolled oats or have a quick snack if you are in a hurry. Oatmeal is a filling grain that also provides much-needed fiber to keep hunger and your blood sugar stable.

3. Fruits – Fruits are packed with antioxidants like vitamins C and A. Antioxidants fight free radical damage in the body and reduce the risk of cancer. Berries such as blueberries and grapes contain the highest amounts of antioxidants. But a range of fruits in a variety of colors for maximum health

Select. The antioxidants present in the fruit boost the immune system to fight the effects of aging in the body.

4. Allium foods - This class of foods includes garlic, onions, leeks and shallots. Garlic is known to lower cholesterol. Allium vegetables protect the body from the risk of cancer and many other diseases. They also help lower blood pressure and prevent blood clots. Eating these power packed vegetables in their natural state especially garlic enhances their health benefits.

 5. Salmon – Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids reduces the risk of heart disease and other conditions like atherosclerosis. Wild salmon is a fatty fish but contains good fats that have been proven to improve health in children and adults. Salmon is rich in protein which comes in handy after an exercise session for building muscle tissue.

6. Flaxseed - Like salmon, it contains omega-3 fatty acids. These seeds also contain omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids. This seed gives you great power to fight against high cholesterol, heart disease and diabetes. Ground flax seed can be added to fruit smoothies, sprinkled into yogurt, eaten with cereal, or added to pancake mixes.

7. Chilli - Chilli is colourful. They contain antioxidants like beta-carotene and vitamin C. Peppers range from mild and sweet to so hot that you would call the fire department. All chilies contain a substance called capsaicin. Capsaicin has properties as an anti-inflammatory, a pain reliever, reducing the risk of cancer and heart disease. They are good in salads, salsas and all kinds of dishes.

 8. Nuts and Seeds - Nuts have high fat content but they are good types of fats. Peanuts, almonds, Brazil nuts, walnuts and pistachios are all providers of good fats and protein. Grind them to a fine powder and use as a coating instead of high-carb bread crumbs. Nuts help reduce cholesterol. Eat them right out of the shell without any additives.

9. Acai - This berry has been in the news recently. It is rich in antioxidants and boosts energy. You can overdo it and look better while doing it. You can get acai juice and supplements at your health food store.

10. Yogurt - The fat-free variety is good for you. Yogurt contains calcium, B vitamins and protein. If you don't drink milk, yogurt is an option to get your calcium to strengthen bones and teeth. Live yogurt also contains friendly bacteria to help promote a healthy digestive system.