Superfoods contain high amounts of vitamins and minerals that are beneficial in preventing or reducing the risk of disease in the human body. Superfoods are also excellent sources of antioxidants, which have cancer fighting abilities. Many vegetables can be considered superfoods because of their naturally occurring high nutrient and antioxidant contents.

Broccoli

Broccoli's dark green florets indicate that it is a vegetable full of important nutrients and vitamins. Broccoli contains chromium which aids in the control of blood sugar and insulin. It is a source of sulforaphane which, when released into the body, works to protect the cardiovascular system. Broccoli also provides antioxidants, fiber, calcium, and other minerals which aid in fighting cancer and preventing heart disease, stroke, ulcers, and cataracts. Include fresh or lightly cooked broccoli into your daily diet to partake of its benefits.

Carrots

Carrots are an excellent source of beta carotene, which the body converts to Vitamin A. Vitamin A is important to the health of the skin, the body's immune system, and antioxidant activity. Vitamin A is also important to the retina of the eye. It provides the retina with the molecules that are needed for low-light and color vision. Beta carotene also has antioxidant compounds which help prevent against macular degeneration, cancer and heart disease. Carrots can be consumed raw or cooked. Be aware that overcooking this superfood may cause loss of flavor and some nutrients.

Spinach

The dark green leaves of spinach are high in nutrients while containing very few calories. Spinach is high in lutein which is an antioxidant that prevents cancer and reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Spinach is an excellent source of calcium which is important to healthy bones. Spinach is high in folate which is needed for healthy cell division and is especially important during pregnancy. Spinach is can be cooked or eaten fresh.

Red Bell Peppers

Red bell peppers are a source of lycopene which aids in the prevention of lung, cervix, bladder and prostate cancers. They also contain fiber which can reduce the risk of developing colon cancer. Red bell peppers are a high source of Vitamins A and C which are antioxidants. These vitamins help rid the body of free radicals, which in turn lowers cholesterol and reduces the risk of heart attack and strokes. Red bell peppers can be eaten fresh or cooked. Cooking this superfood actually increases the release of lycopene.

Thanks for Reading My Blogs...

•