9 Superfoods That Every Woman Needs

by Naturally Yours

I strongly believe that women are the best multi-taskers. We seamlessly play multiple roles one after the other and sometimes even parallely. Be it being a daughter, sister, mother, wife, colleague, grandmother, friend….. the list is endless.

As we grow older, juggling work and family while managing our mood swings, cramps, energy drains etc can be stressful. However nature is already equipped to help us handle this in an effective manner. Food can become the most essential tool in our health maintaining arsenal, so picking the best weapons for the job is paramount.

We have put together a list of food products that are a must-have for all especially for women to effectively deal with various issues such as nutritional deficiencies, reduce the risk of diseases such as diabetes, heart related ailments and cancer; strengthen your bones, reduce menopausal symptoms, boost your immune system and reproductive health etc.

1. Curd

Ending every meal with atleast a full spoons of curd has been ingrained in every south Indian family. It is loaded with bone-healthy calcium — something every woman needs more of at every age.

Curd contains healthy probiotics that aids in digestion and can reduce problems associated with irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory digestive tract disorders. It can also help reduce the risk of stomach ulcers and vaginal infections.

2. Flaxseed

The health factor in flaxseeds is omega-3 fatty acids, which plays a vital role in protecting us from a number of key health threats such as heart disease, stroke, hypertension, depression and joint pain. Regular consumption may help reduce menopausal symptoms and can also help tackling irregular periods and menstruation-linked discomfort.

The seeds also come enriched with fibre, protein, magnesium, calcium, phosphorous, lignan among other nutrients and minerals. Lignans present in them help in battling high levels of estrogen and help in maintaining balanced hormonal levels.

3. Lentils

Lentils are a good source of protein and fiber and may have protective effects against heart disease and breast cancer.

As a source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, lentils can help lower cholesterol, while their level of a nutrient known as isoflavone can help in the regulation of hormones and may aid with menopause symptoms.

4. Berries

Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, cranberries and goji berries are a good source of antioxidants which are believed to play a role in cell repair and reduce the risk of various cancers.

Berries are also high in vitamin C and folic acid. Cranberries may help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections in women

5. Dark chocolate

On days when you really need a mood boost, eating dark chocolate can help you feel better as it releases endorphins and triggers relaxation, producing a happy high. Indulge your chocolate cravings with dark chocolate with 70% or higher cocoa content.

It also helps to control blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

6. Spinach

This leafy vegetable is packed with essential nutrients that women of any age need. It has loads of vitamin K, magnesium and calcium. The combination of these three slows down the deterioration of bones ones you get older.

It also contains folate which is essential during pregnancy. It also improves eye health, boosts immunity and helps with muscle efficiency.

7. Chickpeas

Phytoestrogens is a substance found in chickpeas that mimics the female hormones – esterogen. It helps to restore hormonal imbalance during menopause and reduces the number of daily hot flushes and vaginal dryness.

Chickpeas is also a good source of protein.

8. Quinoa

Quinoa is a nutrient powerhouse. It is an excellent source of protein, and is also high in bone-boosting minerals like copper, phosphorous, iron, and magnesium. Plus, it’s a good source of PMS-fighting manganese.

9. Nuts

Healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals are just some of the great components Mother Nature has packed into nuts like almonds, walnuts, brazil nuts etc. Eating more nuts can support your heart by helping to lower bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol.

Hope the article helps you to make simple tweaks in your daily life for a healthier and happier future you. While these foods won’t cover all your nutrient bases, incorporating them into your diet as often as possible can help give you a wide range of protection.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Priya Prakash, Co-Founder, Naturally Yours

With over 7 years of experience in the organic industry, Priya is a strong believer in using healthy and easy to use alternatives in daily life. She passionately advises her friends, family and customers by sharing with them practical and easy ways to include healthy alternatives in their daily life.