Super Superfoods!

Most of us lead a very busy lifestyle with little time to prepare meals. We eat highly processed convenience foods that make us feel full but often leave us feeling lethargic shortly after.

It doesn’t need to be this way! You can eat not only to feel full but also to look good, feel good and possibly prevent diseases and increase longevity.

Healthy options don’t need to be time consuming or difficult to prepare; they come down to smart choices. Here are 5 in season superfoods to get you started.

1. Apples. Packed with antioxidants including vitamin C, needed for healthy skin and gums. Contain pectin (a soluble fibre) that can help to lower cholesterol and keep a healthy digestive system

The best way to have an apple is just as it is, but for a change try having them roasted and sprinkled with a little cinnamon

2. Blackberries. Help to protect against infections and cancers, as they are rich in vitamin C. A good source of potassium which may protect against hypertension

Try mixing them with bio-live organic yoghurt or add to your favourite smoothie.

3. Pumpkin and Squash. They are packed full of the cancer inhibitors beta carotene and alpha carotene and a good source of protein. Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of zinc, important in maintaining a healthy immune system.

A simple way to prepare pumpkin and squash as part of a meal is to have it roasted. Simply peel and dice into large pieces adding a little olive oil and seasoning and then roasting for approximately 40minutes.

The seeds also make a quick snack. To prepare, simply boil for 5 minutes and then bake for about an hour.

4. Mushrooms. They are potentially very important in fighting cancers in particular prostate cancer, as they are higher in selenium than most other vegetables.

Make a simple mushroom omlette or add them to a sandwhich to add a nice texture.

5. Kale. The super food of super foods! Kale contains one of the highest levels of antioxidants of any vegetable and is also rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, which can prevent vision loss in old age.

Chop finely and sautee with a little garlic or be adventurous and have a go at making the traditional Portuguese soup ‘caldo verde’; A soup with a potato base and finely chopped kale. Most recipes add chorizo but caldo verde can also be enjoyed as a vegetarian dish.

There are many more super foods out there, this list is to inspire and get you started. Choosing to eat in season super foods will not only help you to look good and feel good, being in season will also ensure they are fresher, taste better and cost less. Enjoy!

Stay strong and healthy!

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Rocofit

Personal Trainer

Islington, North London