@RedMountainspa
By Reema Sayegh, Ph.D.
The holidays are over and Spring is fast upon us. The brief lull between these high-energy periods is now over, and we face longer days, warmer temperatures and the need to rev up our personal energy engines in order to keep up with increased demands.
Good news! There are simple ways to feel more energized without harsh stimulants, and everyone can gain easy access to them just by making informed food choices.
Super foods are aptly named as they are common foods that deliver hefty amounts of nutrients without hefty amounts of calories and fat. Therefore, our bodies can utilize all the vitamins, minerals, enzymes, phytochemicals (think: antioxidants) these foods provide without having to be overtaxed with extra exercise or deprived of vital calories to meet increased energy demands.
Examples of super food fruits include all members of the berry family, especially blueberries and bilberries. Another berry in the news now is the acai berry (which not only contains anthocyanins, but essential fatty acids as well, for an even bigger boost).
Super food veggies include cruciferous vegetables, especially broccoli, which also contains a compound that helps to eradicate xenobiotic (potentially toxic environmental) estrogen from the system. Dark, green leafy veggies also pack a wallop, especially spinach, kale and collard greens.
Super food protein sources include wild-caught salmon (loaded with Omega 3 fatty acids), cultured yogurt (teeming with digestion-boosting probiotics) and sprouted greens (full of enzymes and amino acids).
Nuts and seeds round out the list of re-energizing super foods. Rich in minerals, good fats, fiber and protein, these small diet must-haves carry big flavor and impart rich texture to salads, cereals, pastas and as stand-alone snacks for folks on the go.
If we make it a point to think “super foods” every day, we can be well on our way to re-energizing our diets, and, therefore, revitalizing our lives. Bon appétit!
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