6 Powerful Foods To Eat Every Week

April 4, 2016

EGGS

We often forget the nutritional power of the humble egg. Eggs are a great source of complete proteins, which are essential for many physiological functions. These complete proteins contain all of the nine essential amino acids that our bodies can’t produce naturally, and we therefore, must absorb from dietary sources. Eggs are also loaded with vitamins and minerals that are necessary for healthy bodily functions, including: vitamin A, vitamin B12, vitamin D, iodine, iron, vitamin A and folate.

Eat them boiled, poached, scrambled, in a salad, sandwich or cook them in a healthy frittata- there are so many options!

 

SUNFLOWER SEEDS

Sunflower seeds are a perfect snack to keep in your bag, on your desk, and in the pantry. Sunflower seeds may seem small but they have a powerful nutrient profile. These unassuming pods are a great source of dietary fiber, are high in protein, complex carbohydrates, vitamin B, vitamin E, copper, iron, and folate. These nourishing seeds are delicious on their own but are also the perfect addition to salads, muffins,

These nourishing seeds are delicious on their own but are also the perfect addition to salads, muffins, breads, or breakfast bowls.

 

RAW CACAO

Raw cacao is rich in minerals, including: magnesium, iron, potassium, calcium, and zinc (essential for strong hair and nails). It contains an abundance of antioxidants, which help prevent you from harmful effects of free radicals and slow down the aging process. Raw cacao also promotes the release of neurotransmitters such as, serotonin, endorphins, dopamine and phenyl ethylamine these hormones are associated with feelings of happiness and love. Enjoy a raw cacao drink in the afternoon, to help curb those afternoon sugar cravings!

Enjoy a raw cacao drink in the afternoon, to help curb those afternoon sugar cravings!

 

BEETROOT

Beetroot is a powerful antioxidant and a rich source of nitrate. Dietary nitrate lowers blood pressure and it’s anti-inflammatory effects help manage cardiovascular health and cancer. A number of studies have also found that beetroot juice reduces the amount of oxygen needed during exercise and enhances athletic performance.

This amazing veggie is not only great for our insides but is also fabulous for skin, possessing many anti-aging benefits! Beetroot is a versatile vegetable; you can juice it, grate it into a salad or roast it in the oven- it is always deliciously nutrient-rich!

 

CAPSICUM

The nutritional benefits of capsicum are well underrated; capsicum can contain almost three times more Vitamin C than orange juice. Despite being a naturally sweet vegetable, it is low in calories and is also a good source of vitamin A, these antioxidants promote healthy eye, bone and skin health. Capsicum also possesses strong anti-inflammatory qualities, preventing illness and disease. Cut some strips of capsicum for a snack throughout the day, add them

Cut some strips of capsicum for a snack throughout the day, add them into a salad or roast some in the oven for dinner.

 

TURMERIC

Emerging studies suggest that turmeric displays strong anti-inflammatory properties. In clinic trials, turmeric has shown to prevent or help manage common health conditions such as; chronic inflammation and pain, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, irritable bowl syndrome, acne and fibrosis.

This golden spice can be used in smoothies, teas, coffee, muffins, rice, curries or an aromatic rub for chicken or fish.

 

 

Article by Emilia Wojcik

Nutritionist, blogger and creator of ‘The Health Enthusiast’ is passionate about healthy living and hopes to instill an enthusiasm towards nutrition in readers through sharing knowledge, recipes and stories. After graduating from Deakin University as an Associate Nutritionist, she has started building her healthy empire. Emilia’s blog shares her food and nutrition knowledge, healthy recipes and her own health journey experiences. She has had extensive industry experience working across a number of well-respected organisations, including: Sacred Heart Mission, Eat for Life, Breast Cancer Network Australia and Women’s Health Victoria. Emilia is currently doing her Masters of Human Nutrition at Deakin while, simultaneously launching her new food business Health Enthusiast. Co, which has created a delicious line of nutritious treats to help curb those 3PM cravings. Emilia believes that she can improve her followers’ optimal health by helping them realise how good they can feel by simply building a healthy relationship with food and nurturing the mind, body and spirit.

 

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