The signs and symptoms of stress are familiar to everyone. Foods – the right foods – may be the answer. Most people give little thought to the foods they eat. Though they can identify foods they like and dislike, their daily schedules may leave little time for the important consideration of nutrition and healthy eating. They may think nothing of running to the nearest fast-food joint for a quick hamburger at lunch or munching on chips during the day. They may think that by eating a hearty evening meal with a canned vegetable and green salad, they are getting all the vitamins and minerals we need. Those interested in improving their diets, and their health, should consider adding the following super foods to their menus.
Super Foods for Better Health
Liver is probably one of the most nutritious foods to be found. Unfortunately, many people don't like the taste of this natural source of the B vitamins, protein, mineral nutrients and lecithin. For those people, dessicated liver tablets are available to serve as a dietary supplement.
Brewer's yeast is considered the most important food discovery ever made. It contains the entire B complex, 12 known vitamins, six possible vitamins, 15 amino acids and 14 essential minerals. Brewer's yeast is a by-product of beer and is an excellent source of proteins comparable to those found in meat and milk. Brewer's yeast provides a quick energy pick-up, and offers relief from fatigue, constipation and nervousness.
Yogurt has become a popular food in recent years, with new brands appearing on the market all the time. The major value of yogurt lies in its effect on the intestinal tract. It is an aid for constipation, diarrhea, and upset stomach and it promotes sleep due to its calcium content. Yogurt is also rich in the B vitamins and protein. Instead of buying the flavored varieties of yogurt, which contain refined sugar and fruit preserves, buy the plain varieties and garnish with fresh fruit, chopped nuts or wheat germ.
More Food for Healthy Eating
Blackstrap molasses, extracted from the sap of sugar cane, is very high in iron and B vitamins and is one of the highest sources of potassium to be found – better than bananas! It is an effective, natural laxative and is credited with stopping hair loss. It contains practically no sugar and is rich in copper, making it very beneficial to people suffering from anemia. Blackstrap molasses can be used in cooking, added to yogurt, used as tea, or stirred into milk to make a "blackstrap shake." One caution: Never take blackstrap molasses "straight," as it can erode tooth enamel.
Wheat germ is derived from the end of the wheat kernel and is the most nutritionally valuable part of the wheat. It is high in vitamin E, which helps to strengthen heart muscles and blood vessels, and it contains the entire B-complex, complete protein, and phosphorus. Wheat germ oil has been found to be helpful in fighting fatigue and it also helps heart action and endurance.
Improve Your Health With These Foods
Fish of any kind is a good source of protein and has very few carbohydrates. Fish is excellent for producing energy and burning fat, helping to fight fatigue, low blood sugar and low blood pressure.
Sprouts are a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals and are especially rich in vitamins B, C, and E. Sprouts can be germinated from any whole, unhulled seeds or beans. The most popular are soy, alfalfa and wheat. To sprout a quick "pick-me-up," simply put a few seeds between paper towels in a colander and hold under running water for a few minutes until the towels are damp. Dampen each day and harvest when tails are approximately one inch long. Keep refrigerated. Sprouts can be added to salads and sandwiches or dropped at the last minute into casseroles, soups or omelets.
There are, of course, many other foods which are healthful and nutritious. Vegetables, fruit, nuts and dairy products are all necessary for a complete diet. The foods listed above, however, are considered some of the major sources of the nutrients needed for good health.
Linda Pophal - Linda Pophal, owner/CEO of Strategic Communications, LLC, is a marketing and communication strategist with 20+ years experience. Pophal ...
