A Super[food] Saturday

Hey hey. How was your Saturday?

I’ve had a relaxing, rainy October day full of cozy activities. This morning I rolled out of bed to volunteer with my nutrition club at Chico Preview Day, where we talked to prospective students about our program and degree options – yay, nutrition. Of course I sported my favorite tee at the event :) After a couple hours at school, I stopped at the local natural food store to pick up a few organic apples for a recipe. On my way out, this free magazine caught my eye.

Real food. natural health. green planet.

Flipping though the pages, I stumbled upon a blurb about six superfoods for women; I thought I’d pass on the info to all my female readers.

6 Superfoods for Women

To reap the benefits of these six superfoods, include 2-3 servings of each of these foods in your weekly diet.

1. Flaxseeds

Rich in lignans, compounds that naturally modulate estrogen levels, flaxseeds help to protect against breast cancer and promote regular ovulation. They’re also full of healthy omega-3 fatty acids and protein for lasting energy, plus fiber to help prevent constipation.

2. Blueberries

These sweet treats, whether fresh or frozen, burst with antioxidants that are especially important for focus and brain function; research indicates that the polyphenols in blueberries guard against Alzheimer’s, which strikes one in every six women. Blueberries’ anti-inflammorty properties also protect against cancer and heart disease.

3. Leafy Greens

Kale, chard, spinach, and their cousins offer calcium to build bones and reduce osteoporosis. They’re also high in folic acid, which is key for pregnant women and which also may help thwart cervical cancer.

4. Green Tea

Well-studied EGCG seems to be especially powerful in reducing breast cancer risk. Too much sun exposure over the years? EGCG may also reverse the effects of ultraviolet damage and fight skin caner. In addition, research indicates that green tea increases alertness, fends of fatigue, and aids in weight loss by boosting metabolism.

5. Pomegranates

These sweet-tart fruits and their juice help protect the heart by lowering blood pressure, increasing blood flow to the heart, and preventing hardening of the arteries. Because of it’s powerful anti-inflammatory effect, pomegranate juice also may help ward off osteoarthritis.

6. Sardines

These little fishes are a superb and eco-friendly source of omega-3 fatty acids, which may help prevent menopause-related depression and mood changes. Omega-3s also reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and protect the arteries from damage, so they’re heart-healthy as well.

Source: Turner, Lisa . “6 Superfoods for Women.” Delicious Living. October 2010: 40.

Do you eat any of these foods regularly? I eat more than 2-3 servings of flaxseed, leafy greens, and green tea every week, and during the summer months, I load up on blueberries. Though as a current pescatarian, maybe I should give sardines a chance!?

Reading food magazines make ya hungry!

Lunch.

• 1 Dr. P burger sandwiched between a British Style Multigrain English Muffin – a TJ’s staple – with my mama’s basil pesto, avo, red onion & greens
• 1 deliciously crunchy Fuyu persimmon

The rest of my Saturday included my first hot chai latte of the season – mmmm, shopping with my roommate for Halloween apparel, baking bread, and cooking dinner. There wasn’t any exercise today – poo.

I hope y’all are enjoying the cool, cozy weather. Stay tuned for my bread recipe, GIVEAWAY winner, and running reflections.

To delicious living!

Hillary