Power Up

These 12 superfoods promise to give your body and mind a boost.

Nutrient-rich superfoods are considered to be particularly beneficial to enhance health and well being. Plant-based eats dominate the subjective list of edible powerhouses, with fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds providing essential vitamins and minerals. And they also contain something else important, according to the American Heart Association: phytochemicals, compounds in plants that fight disease.

“Superfoods are highly effective but not a quick fix,” explains Megan Ware, RDN, LD, owner of Nutrition Awareness and president-elect of the Orlando Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. “For positive impact, incorporate superfoods into a healthy routine of nourishment and exercise.” Dr. Benjamin Kaplan, lead physician for Orlando Health’s Internal Medicine Group, agrees: “Superfoods give patients an alternative to medication. Those who take nutrition seriously can lower risk of diabetes, high cholesterol and hypertension.”

Of course, it’s always wise to consult your doctor first, especially if you take medications that may be affected by certain foods.