5 Superfoods That Are Good for Skin, Mind, and Body
"Superfood" is way more than just a trendy label put on certain foods. It's a term that helps us identify foods that contain a significant amount of nutrients compared to their caloric portion. These nutrients often come in the form of vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and antioxidants that just so happen to be great for whole body well-being.
Below, we've highlighted 5 superfoods we always keep on hand to supply our skin, mind, and body with loads of benefits.
1. Watercress
Watercress is our favorite superfood for skin, mind, and body well-being because it is full of beneficial nutrients. In fact, it's one of the most nutrient-dense foods on our planet. Low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals, one cup of chopped watercress contains 40 mg of calcium, 20 mg of phosphorus, 7 mg of magnesium, 112 mg of potassium (about 1/3 the amount of potassium in a small banana), 85 µg of vitamin K, and nearly 15 grams of pure vitamin C. Plus, much more.
So what does all that mean? For one, watercress is high in vitamin C, which is beneficial for the skin and body by aiding in collagen production, protecting against cell-damaging free radicals, and helping with overall immune function.
Thanks to its plentiful supply of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, watercress is also known for its brain-boosting benefits. Watercress is rich in vitamin K, a fat-soluble vitamin that may help support anti-aging in the body, such as preventing Alzheimer’s.
2. Kiwi
In our books, kiwifruit is an underrated superfood. Not only is it delicious, but it's rich in nutrients like folic acid. Containing 26 µg of folate per 100 grams, kiwi's folic acid content can help boost mood and cognitive function.
Kiwi is also high in vitamin C, with one fruit containing 64 mg (nearly 100% of the recommended daily intake). Vitamin C is a fantastic antioxidant for the skin, brain, and body, defending against signs of aging that can lead to chronic diseases and loss of memory.
3. Avocado
Eat all the avocados your heart desires because it's one superfood our skin, brain, and body love. High in healthy fats and vitamin E, avocados nourish the skin by boosting hydration and strengthening the skin's barrier function to prevent dryness and improve elasticity. This creamy fruit is also high in magnesium, which has been linked to better sleep, decreased muscle tension, and less stress. Aka, your days are filled with more energy and positivity—which is what we love to hear.
Avocados are also a great source of brain-healthy nutrients like fiber, folate, and healthy fats, keeping our minds sharp and healthy. So whether you enjoy them in your smoothies, in guacamole, or in your daily avocado toast, you can feel good knowing you're treating your skin, brain, and body with lots of love.
4. Green Tea
Sipping on green tea throughout the day is an amazing way to nourish skin, mind, and body. Super high in bioactive compounds, green tea's army of antioxidants benefit our body's entire system (including skin) by defending against the formation of free radicals that leads to premature aging and the onset of various physical and neurodegenerative diseases.
Green tea also contains l-theanine, a compound known for its anti-anxiety, dopamine increasing, and focus fueling effects. Which makes it perfect for giving you that feel-good energy boost throughout the day.
5. Chia Seeds
We love chia seeds because they're super versatile—especially when it comes to snack and breakfast time. Plus, they boast some super powerful benefits for skin, mind, and body (even if they are just tiny seeds).
For one, chia seeds are rich in antioxidants that we need in our skincare routine and diet to fight free radicals that lead to cell damage and oxidative stress. One antioxidant found in chia seeds, quercetin, is known for reducing one's risk of conditions like heart disease. Another antioxidant in chia seeds, caffeic acid, is fantastic at fighting inflammation in the body, which can lead to skin issues and even serious health issues down the line.
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