The Doctors at South Tampa Immediate Care Discuss Healthy Foods to Incorporate Into Your Diet

healthy-foodsYou may have heard about the nourishing fare touted in the media and elsewhere as “super foods,” those life-altering edibles that are credited with helping to ward off cancer, heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and a long list of other degenerative diseases. And, as if that’s not enough to like, these amazing provisions can also improve your mood, prevent wrinkles, and keep your weight in check – without any side effects. Surely, you’re interested in finding out how you can stock up on these nutritional powerhouses. The good news is that they are all readily available at your local grocery store.

One caveat: While super foods have many health benefits, and thus are wise additions to your daily diet, you should always rely on a personal consultation with a trusted healthcare professional to obtain a proper diagnosis and treatment of any specific health concern you may have. That said, following is a partial shopping list – just a taste – to help you navigate the grocery store and feel good about your selections:

  • Avocados – Delicious simply sliced or prepared as guacamole, avocados are high in fiber and one of the most nutrient-dense foods. An excellent source of folate, vitamin E, potassium, and magnesium, this rich fruit is also replete with monounsaturated fat, which can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and boost good cholesterol (HDL).
  • Blueberries – Snack on these alone, or toss some in your cereal or salad. Tiny but mighty, blueberries contain extremely high levels of antioxidants, which have been found to be effective at preventing the proliferation of cancer and other cellular mutations, as well as producing anti-aging effects.
  • Chicken – With plenty of boneless, skinless, chicken breasts on hand, you’ll be able to resist the temptation to head out to the nearest drive-through to pick up a quick meal. Never boring, this family favorite and dinner-time staple can be prepared in an endless variety of ways. The best part: No matter how you choose to enjoy it, chicken is packed with essential nutrients. The leanest cut, a half chicken breast has just 2.5 grams of fat and more than 22 grams of protein, making it an ideal choice for weight management as well.
  • Oats – Enjoy your oatmeal! Low in calories but high in fiber and protein, oatmeal contains a synergy of outstanding nutrients that digest slowly to help you feel fuller longer. Studies show that as little as one bowl each day can boost your metabolism while significantly lowering your cholesterol and risk of developing heart disease.
  • Spinach – Low in calories but super-high in nutrients, Popeye’s favorite can aid in the prevention of cataracts, certain cancers, and cardiovascular disease. Enjoy it hot as a side dish, or for a healthy bonus, try a spinach salad topped with walnuts. Another super food that is chock-full of omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts provide essential nutrients that can boost your good cholesterol (HDL) and lower your bad cholesterol (LDL).
  • Green tea – A fine substitute for sugary sodas, green tea is brimming with antioxidants like catechins, which have unique and impressive disease-fighting propensities that can halt oxidative damage to cells. To reap the full benefits, fresh-brewed is best.

For more tips on how to keep yourself and your family healthy, be sure to check out our online series of health articles. If you have questions, please contact or visit a Tampa doctor at the South Tampa Immediate Care walk-in clinic.