8 Superfoods to Help You Live Longer & Healthier

by JJ Virgin on February 23, 2017

I define superfoods as nutrient-dense rock stars that go above and beyond… for immune health, lower inflammation, gut health, and to make you the best fat burner.

Among their benefits, superfoods can slow aging, protect your cells, and prevent inflammation.1-4

In my last blog, I chose seven of my favorites… but I started brainstorming more superfoods that also deserve mention. Here are eight more!

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Legumes
Superfood Facts: Lentils, peas, and beans are the standouts in the legume family. They're all eligible for superfood status thanks to complete protein (meaning they have all nine essential amino acids), vitamins and minerals, and fiber. I love them in tasty, homemade Garlic Hummus or vegan-friendly Lentil Nut Burgers with Cilantro Vinaigrette.

Flaxseed
Superfood Facts: Flaxseed is an amazing superfood that is absolutely crammed full of omega-3 fatty acids,  healthy fats that fight inflammation. These toasty brown seeds are also packed with fiber and protein, making them a great addition to my Mom's Apple Chai Protein Shake, oatmeal, and more.

Green Tea
Superfood Facts: Green tea contains a host of helpful compounds that can do everything from improve brain function to help with weight loss and emotional eating. Green tea also improves insulin sensitivity, decreasing your risk for type 2 diabetes and related diseases. (I love it in this Metabolism-Boosting Arnold Palmer…) I drink 32 ounces of green tea every day.

Avocado
Superfood Facts: I heart avocados! They’re a true superfood, with healthy fats, plenty of fiber, protein, and vitamins. Try them in a chocolate smoothie, make a side of incredible Roasted Jalapeño Guacamole, or add them to an easy BLT Avocado Wrap. (And here’s a quick tip to ripen them in just 10 minutes.)

Broccoli
Superfood Facts: The phytonutrients in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli make them disease-fighting warriors. They contain sulforaphane, an antioxidant and natural detoxifier, which studies suggest has powerful cancer-fighting properties. Cruciferous veggies are also high in indole-3-carbinol, another potent anticarcinogen. Here's a simple steamed broccoli recipe that's sure to make the perfect side at your next gathering.

Almonds
Superfood Facts: Almonds are another one of my faves, and it’s no wonder: not only are they packed with protein, healthy omega-3s, and vitamins, they taste so yummy! You can enjoy this superfood on its own in creamy almond butter, or try it in a batch of tasty Vanilla Almond Paleo Protein Pancakes.

Ginger
Superfood Facts: Ginger is a versatile superfood that has a variety of health benefits, from fighting inflammation to healing your gut. Ginger contains beneficial amounts of fiber, vitamin C, and multiple minerals; as a plus, it’s also a natural way to fight nausea. Try it in this delicious Ahi Tuna over Asian Slaw.

Cacao
Superfood Facts: One word: flavanols. Those are the compounds in cacao that can help slow aging, reduce the risk of diseases like cancer and diabetes, and protect your heart and brain. No wonder we crave chocolate! (Just be sure to eat raw cacao powder or dark chocolate with 75%+ cacao for the best results.)

A smoothie makes the perfect way to pack in superfoods that might otherwise be a challenge to fit in your diet. This guide has over 50 fast, fabulous recipes that take minutes to make… but keep you full and focused for hours. Get your FREE guide here

The views in this blog by JJ Virgin should never be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Please work with a healthcare practitioner concerning any medical problem or concern. The information here is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or condition. Statements contained here have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

References
1 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4153275/
2 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18072818
3 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2685276/
4 https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet/antioxidants-fact-sheet