What makes a superfood? The best ones are naturally occurring, full of substances that help humans thrive, and most of all, they’re delicious. Let’s take a look at three foods that fit the bill, one of which you can have for breakfast, one for lunch, and the third for dinner.
Breakfast: Eggs
Eggs are a standard breakfast food, and they’re a source of high-quality protein that will give you the energy to tackle whatever the morning throws at you. They’re remarkably versatile, as there are dozens of ways that you can prepare them. They also contain zeaxanthin and lutein, which are both antioxidants that keep your eyes healthy. This becomes more important as we age, especially as the more of them we eat, the less likely it is that we will suffer macular degeneration, which leads to blindness. The only potential drawback with eggs is that they are high in cholesterol. Therefore, it is best not to eat them every day. 2-3 times a week is about right.
Lunch: Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are another food that can be prepared in many different styles. They’re usually thought of as a side dish, and they owe their bright orange color to alpha and beta-carotene. The body uses these to keep your immune system, bones, and eyes healthy. Known as phytochemicals, they operate as antioxidants too. They sweep through the body and destroy free radicals that promote disease. In an unpeeled sweet potato, you’re getting vitamin A, potassium, some vitamins B6 and C, lutein, and manganese. The sweet potato is undeniably a superfood.
Dinner: Spinach
Popeye may have been onto something in those old cartoons. Spinach and other dark leafy greens do a lot for the human body. With spinach you get vitamins A, C, and K. You’ll also get a dose of calcium, iron, fiber, magnesium, and potassium. Eating more greens will help you lose weight, so if you’re trying to shed a few pounds, this should be a part of your diet. You’ll also be fighting off cancer and keeping your brain young.
There you have it: a superfood for every meal. With breakfast, lunch, and dinner taken care of, maybe you can celebrate your accomplishment with a little dark chocolate for dessert. Don’t worry, we won’t tell.
