5 Superfoods for Your Grocery List

Food fads come and go. But some foods stand the test of time for their proven nutritional benefits. Here are five superfoods you should consider adding to your diet:

1. Blueberries.

Blueberries are high in antioxidants, including Vitamin C, and are a great source of Vitamin A and fiber. Best of all, this superfood is available year-round! The North American blueberry season runs April through September. Then South America imports berries from October through March, when the region experiences its own warm summer months.

2. Salmon.

This flavorful fish superfood provides omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce cholesterol and slow the growth of arterial plaque. It’s also rich in Vitamin D, B Vitamins, potassium, and protein. Aim for wild salmon if possible. Farmed salmon is linked to higher percentages of contaminants, but the amounts are not considered a cause for concern. Any kind of salmon, when consumed about twice a week, is rich in nutrients, contributes to a feeling of fullness and helps you lose weight when it’s part of a healthy diet.

3. Cacao powder.

Is cacao powder the same thing as chocolate? Nope! Cacao is made by cold-pressing unroasted beans. Cocoa, on the other hand, is made by roasting cacao beans at a high temperature, which in turn decreases the nutritional benefits of cacao. Cacao powder helps suppress the appetite and reduces cravings, increases metabolism, relieves stress, enhances your mood and stimulates digestion. It’s also a fantastic source of iron and calcium.

4. Nuts.

From protein to Vitamin E to heart-healthy oils they deliver, what’s not to love about nuts? Walnuts, in particular, are known for their source of omega-3s. Plus, they’re high in fiber, protein, antioxidants, Vitamin E, zinc, and selenium.

5. Goji berries.

Native to Asia, the goji berry is credited with anti-aging benefits (thanks to their beta-carotene), immune support (thanks to antioxidants) and glucose regulation. The berries also help against age-related eye diseases thanks to their high levels of antioxidants – those antioxidants, including Vitamin C, also help reduce the risk of certain types of cancers. Goji berries may relieve depression, reduce anxiety and aid in sleep. If we’re going to label any food a “superfood,” goji berries easily defend their title the best.

It’s easy to incorporate any of these nutritional heavy-lifting superfoods into your diet. Cacao powder and goji berries are available at most natural foods stores and even some mainstream supermarkets. As with any food, more doesn’t necessarily mean better. Moderation is always a smart strategy. If you can’t incorporate all of these superfoods into your diet, no problem! Just aim to get some combination of vegetables and fruits, fish, poultry, beans, and whole grains onto your plate each day. One to two servings of milk or dairy products per day, along with a bit of healthy oils, round things out and are complimented by the Thrive Experience.

For a helpful visual, check out the Healthy Eating Plate provided by Harvard Medical School.