What are Superfoods?

Superfoods are so packed with nutrients that even small amounts can pack a powerful punch. While there are no set criteria for determining what is and isn’t a superfood, experts generally agree that items containing extra-large doses of vitamins, minerals and micronutrients qualify for the moniker.

I would have to write a whole new book to explain the benefits of all the nutrients found in superfoods, but there are a few main components that stand out and deserve special mention.

We’ll start with antioxidants: These nutrients are thought to ward off cancer by fighting free radicals and helping to keep cells in good condition. Next up is fiber, which aids in the prevention of diabetes and a wide range of digestive problems, plus soluble fiber, which helps to sweep arteries clean and keep your heart healthy. Vitamins and minerals support your body’s systems in many ways; without them, your skin, eyes, nerves, and organs would fail. Finally, phytochemicals, which are minuscule components that give plants their rich fragrances and delightful colors also provide

a wide range of health benefits.

Which Red Super Fruits and

Ingredients, and Why?

From cranberries to strawberries to watermelon, red fruits and vegetables pack a powerful punch. Red fruits and veggies are brimming with antioxidants such as anthocyanins and lycopene, helping the body to ward off illnesses such as heart disease and cancer. These vibrant red foods also decrease the risk of macular degeneration and stroke, and they help eliminate the free radicals that contribute to aging. 
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Here is a quick list of some of the best, most nutritious red super fruits and superfoods you’ll be enjoying during and after this detox, plus some reasons why each one is so fantastic.

 
                                                                                                   

Apples: Simple apples, with their bright red skins and juicy interiors, offer bone protection, help ease breathing disorders, and help keep cholesterol levels healthy.

Beets: Love them or hate them, beets continually make the list of red powerhouse foods. They are high in lycopene, folate, and anthocyanins, nutrients that help the body function properly.

Blood Oranges: Blood oranges have a rich, delicious taste and are filled with vitamin C, among other nutrients.

Cherries: Cherries aren’t just tasty, they’re a wonderful source of potassium, which can help you attain and keep healthy blood pressure levels. When fresh cherries aren’t

available, consider soaking dry, unsweetened ones or adding frozen ones to your smoothies. If you’re using fresh cherries, double check to be sure that you’ve removed all the pits before tossing them in the blender.

Cranberries: Tart and tangy, a little cranberry goes a long way. In lab studies, cranberries have been shown to kill cancer cells.6 The proanthocyanidins they contain keep bacteria from sticking, helping to prevent stomach ulcers and bladder infections. Dried, unsweetened cranberries can be soaked before being added to smoothies, or you can leave them dry to add little bits of texture.

Currants: Like other tart red fruits, currants offer some protection against heart disease and other maladies. Their high magnesium content plays a role in building and

maintaining  strong, healthy nerve and muscle fibers.

Goji Berries: Fresh goji berries are almost impossible to come by, perhaps because these fruits are usually sold fresh only in Asian and European countries. If you can’t get fresh gojis, don’t worry – dried ones are a potent addition to your smoothies. Full of antioxidants, beta carotene, and other nutrients, they are also very high in fiber. If adding goji berries to a smoothie, consider soaking them beforehand.

Grapes: Red and purple grapes are high in fiber, plus they’re loaded with antioxidants.

Pink Grapefruit: Pink and ruby red grapefruit varieties are high in antioxidants, including vitamin C. Citrus fruits also contain plenty of pectin, which helps to reduce cholesterol.

Plums: These juicy fruits neutralize free radicals and provide protection from arthritis, stroke, heart attack and cancer. They contain a carotenoid called Zeaxanthin, which

helps to slow the aging process.

Pomegranates: Beautiful, deep red pomegranates help prevent cancer, protect cartilage from age-related deterioration,  and help prevent plaque from building up inside arteries. If you are at an elevated risk of developing breast or prostate cancer,

enjoying pomegranate regularly may help provide some protection.

Raspberries: Among other things, raspberries contain a type of fiber that helps reduce “bad” cholesterol.

Red Peppers: Sweet bell peppers and spicy red ones are high in vitamin A, which is essential for good skin, bone, and dental health. Additionally, a red bell pepper contains about the same amount of vitamin Cas an orange does.

Strawberries: A good source of folate, which is essential for women of childbearing age and for everyone who wants to enjoy good heart health. They also pack plenty

of vitamin C, which is responsible for boosting immunity, among other things.

Tomatoes: Despite their savory flavor, tomatoes are considered fruit!

They’re high in lycopene, which helps prevent breast and prostate cancer.

Watermelon: Like tomatoes, watermelon is loaded with lycopene. Besides helping decrease cancer risk, this nutrient cuts the risk of macular degeneration and stroke, and it improves blood vessel function.

• To truly harness the incredible power of red fruits and vegetables, enjoy a variety of different flavors each week. Feel free to mix things up, too, and consider adding some red super foods to your meals and snacks. It’s tough to get too much of a good thing!

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