While there are still those who think superfoods are nothing but an overhyped health fad, the benefits of consuming natural, whole foods tend to justify the hype. As nutrition powerhouses, foods that classify as superfoods can be extremely effective in keeping your body in tip-top shape, from promoting healthy digestion and cardiovascular health to fighting disease. Read on for more on the benefits of including superfoods in your diet, and see why eating your way to better health is a totally reasonable game plan.

Preventing Disease

Because they’re naturally high in vitamins and antioxidants, superfoods can be effective in helping your body build up its immune system, combat illness, and prevent disease. Registered dietitian, Rebecca Lewis, gives the example of whole grains, which can help lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Her top recommendations include quinoa, brown rice, and barley.

Improving Digestion

Superfoods that contain probiotics and enzymes can be effective in promoting gut health, which in turn works wonders for digestion. While fermented foods like yogurt and kefir are common go-to options, certified nutritionist, Scott Michael Schreiber, offers kombucha up as an equally effective option. He also recommends ginger as a digestive aid, as it can help break down food for easier nutrient absorption.

Managing Weight

Some superfoods can be instrumental in helping you not only get slim, but stay slim. For example, chef and clean eating expert, Mareya Ibrahim, recommends broccoli and hot peppers to speed up the metabolism and increase calorie burn. She notes that peppers can also help to reduce cravings. Meanwhile, nutritionist, Tom Irving, suggests including eggs in your diet to aid in fat loss by reducing appetite and overall calorie consumption throughout the day.

Promoting Heart Health

One of the best ways to keep your heart going strong is eating more superfoods that can make sure that your body is getting a sufficient amount of fiber and unsaturated fats. Chef, blogger, and licensed acupuncturist, Stacey Isaacs, suggests raw cacao, which not only promotes healthy heart function, but is also packed with antioxidants and helps your body absorb nutrients more effectively.

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