Developed under the guidence of registered dietitian, nutritionist and health advisor, Andrea Carrothers.
Did you know? There are "super foods" that often provide key nutrients missing from the American diet. Found in
nearly every aisle of the grocery store, super foods are easily incorporated into everyday meals.

 
 
 
Dissecting Super Foods
What makes these foods so super? They are packed with multiple nutrients to help you stay healthy. Here’s more information about the super-nutrition these foods provide:

Fiber is the indigestible portion of plant foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Fiber helps promote digestive health, helps aid in weight loss and may help lower your risk for diabetes/heart disease. Health experts recommend consuming at least 25 grams of fiber each day.

Vitamins are essential chemicals that play a role in nearly all of your body’s processes. Vitamins perform specific functions – for example Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, Vitamin C plays a role in immune system function and the B-vitamins help your body convert food into energy.

Minerals are essential elements in your bones/teeth and have a number of other specific functions. Potassium and sodium help regulate your body’s fluid balance/blood pressure. Calcium and magnesium also help strengthen your bones.

Antioxidants are compounds that help prevent “oxidative damage,” a phenomenon that may contribute to aging/a number of chronic health problems including cancer and cardiovascular disease. A growing body of research indicates that consuming foods with antioxidant properties may help combat free radicals and protect against oxidative damage, supporting overall good health.

Some of the most common antioxidants are vitamins A, C and E. Other important antioxidants belong to a category of natural compounds known as phytochemicals – literally “plant chemicals.” In addition to boosting antioxidant power, these compounds are often responsible for the vibrant red, purple, orange and yellow hues of healthy fruits/vegetables. Carotenoids, flavonoids and polyphenols are some of the most common antioxidant phytochemicals.

Protein is an important building block of nearly every cell in the body - bones, muscles, cartilage, skin and blood. Your body uses protein to build and repair tissues. You also use protein to make enzymes, hormones and other body chemicals. The Daily Value guideline for protein is 50 grams per day; if you’re physically active and exercising regularly, you may need a bit more – up to 0.6 grams per pound of body weight.

Not all fat is bad for you, in fact some fats are essential to good health. Unsaturated fats, like the monounsaturated fats found in olive oil, canola oil, nuts, olives and avocadoes, or the omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish, walnuts and flaxseeds are heart-healthy choices. They may help lower your cholesterol, reduce inflammation and lower your risk for heart disease.