Essential minerals are needed by your body. One of the questions I get asked most is “Are vegetables good for you?” It’s a silly question, right? There’s not much controversy surrounding the health benefits of eating leafy greens. Well . . . unless you choose to eat your leafy green as a topping on that fast-food patty every day.
Today, we wanted to touch on some of the beneficial nutrients and minerals that are found in everyday foods that will allow you to get the vitamins you need to maintain good health. The right diet isn’t just tasty, but it will provide you with the energy, bone density, blood flow, and general health-related superpowers that will allow you to live a more active life.
Essential Minerals and Nutrients
So here we go! Here are the nutrients that will best build your body.
Calcium. This is a real key for strong bones and as a safeguard against osteoporosis. You’ll find this super-hero nutrient in milk, yogurt, cheese, and other dairy products.
Iron. This is one of those behind-the-scenes minerals that nonetheless provide a critical function in red blood cells to prevent anemia. On the food front, iron can be found in fish, nuts, lean meats like beef and chicken, spinach, broccoli, peas, and other leafy green vegetables.
Potassium. First of all, it counters the effects of too much salt. It also lowers the risk of heart disease and stroke. Best known in bananas, potassium is also found in raisins, milk, oranges, and leafy greens like spinach and kale.
Beta-carotene. We often think of it as a secret weapon for our eyes, since it helps vision. However, beta-carotene, found in carrots, spinach, lettuce, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, broccoli, cantaloupe, and winter squash is packed full of antioxidants that aid the immune system and help maintain good skin.
Vitamin E. Besides protecting the immune system, this key antioxidant plays a role in protecting cells from free radicals while slowing macular degeneration. Vitamin E can be found in sunflower oil and seeds, peanuts, almonds, fish, avocado, and eggs.
Focus on Healthy Eating
These vitamins and minerals have been known to prevent certain cancers and reduce the risk of heart disease. No matter the vehicle, they are essential to every diet. That is why it is so important to maintain healthy eating habits focusing on decreasing processed foods, white flour, sugar, and excess salt. Focus on eating lean meats like chicken, turkey, and grass-fed beef. Lots of fruits vegetables, leafy greens, and salads. Focus on increasing your consumption of healthy fats found in fish, coconut, and olive oil, as well as avocados. Focus on whole grains that contain fiber instead of overly processed breads.
When you focus on what you put into your body and give your body the nutrients it needs. You will be stronger, leaner, and full of energy. I know, I have been working with individuals who have benefited from improving their overall diet and gut health. If you want to learn more join our IN.Form Program.