Proper nutrition is of utmost importance for the healthy development of the body in growing up children. Similarly, for adults maintaining an ideal ratio of all the nutrients and vitamins is necessary if they want to lead a healthy and disease-free life.
As India celebrates National Nutrition Week 2023 from Sept 1 to Sept 7 know about the 5 superfoods that offer proper nutrition keeping you healthy and happy.
Beans
Beans are superfoods and that is why they are included in two food groups-proteins and vegetables. They are packed with low-fat proteins, phytonutrients, and a lot of fiber.
They also contain different macro and micronutrients that help a body fight against cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer. Beans can be used for preparing stews and soups or blended with spices to form spreads and dips.
Greek Yogurt
The creamy, and smooth Greek Yogurt is loaded with calcium, potassium, and protein and is also a good source of probiotics. The nutrients present in Yogurt aid digestion, help in building strong bones and keep the immune system strong.
Since it has fewer carbs and very low sodium it is ideal for diabetics and patients with hypertension. Using non-fat Greek Yogurt for dips, salad dressings, and soup toppings makes for a tasty accompaniment to all dishes.
Peanuts
Similar to legumes, peanuts are also rich in proteins that help in building and repairing muscles. They contain polyunsaturated and mono-saturated fats that are extremely essential for good heart health.
Nutrients present in peanuts may help lowering the risk for type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome. Eating peanuts with their red skins is good for health as they contain antioxidants that are found in chocolate and wine.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are highly nutritious and good for the heart as they are packed with potassium as well as Vitamin A which boosts eyesight. Since they are free of cholesterol and fat they can be eaten by almost everyone.
The rich and sugary flavour of sweet potatoes makes them an ideal replacement for those who cannot eat potatoes because sweet potatoes are low in calories.
Sunflower seeds
Sunflower seeds though look so small are packed with healthy poly and monounsaturated fats that lower blood pressure and cardiovascular risks. They also have fiber and protein that keep you full for a long time.
These seeds are a good source of some key nutrients like niacin, folate, thiamine, vitamin E, phytochemicals, and plant chemicals.