By Felicity Dryer
Being a caregiver is usually not easy. You have
to be emotionally, mentally and physically strong so that you can support those
who require your care.
Your food choices can both help you excel in your
line of work, as well as be beneficial to keep in mind for those under your
care.
Here are some nutritious superfoods to add to
your regular diet.
Blueberries
When you’ve been working long hours and you’re
exhausted, blueberries can help you to perk up because they’re high in antioxidants. They’re
healthier than reaching for sugar-loaded foods that will just zap your energy.
Beans
Keeping your energy levels up is important. Beans have a low glycaemic index, so they’re a slow
release of energy to sustain
you through the day.
Salmon
This fish should be eaten at least twice a week because
it’s packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids that lower inflammation and
eradicate body aches and pains.
Coconut
Oil
You can tackle
fatigue by consuming coconut oil. Because it gets rid of harmful organisms in the
body, it can decrease stress, helping your immune system to work more
efficiently.
Steel-cut Oats
If you’re stressed or tired, reach for steel-cut
oats. They contain many nutrients, such as Vitamin E, B-vitamins, and protein.
Oats are also feel-good food, thanks to how
they make the brain produce serotonin that helps to improve your mood.
Greek Yogurt
Sometimes you need a healthy snack on the go to
keep hunger at bay, and that’s why Greek yogurt is so good. It’s
got lots of calcium and protein to keep you feeling fuller for longer.
Sweet
Potato
Eating sweet potatoes can contribute to your Vitamin C intake. This nutrient is important because it’s an essential building block of collagen, which benefits your skin,
blood vessels, bones and tissues.
Kale
Insufficient levels of folic acid can be linked to depression, so make
sure you get enough of this vitamin. It can be found in leafy green vegetables
like kale.
Cocoa
Dark chocolate could be a good snack every now
and then - just make sure it’s at least 60 per cent cocoa as it has eight times more antioxidants than strawberries! It also lowers your bad cholesterol.
Eggs
Working long hours can be exhausting so start the
day with eggs. They contain a molecule known as phenylalanine, which the body
uses to produce dopamine. This chemical makes you feel more alert!
Olive Oil
If you want to fight inflammation that can
cause joint pain, olive oil can help. It contains oleocanthal, a compound
that’s a natural painkiller.
Avocado
Avocado is rich in fibre, which helps to keep
diabetes at bay because it lowers your blood sugar. It’s also got good fats the body needs
to lower your cholesterol and decrease your heart disease risk.
Chia
Seeds
These seeds absorb a lot of water so they
keep your body hydrated for longer, while preserving electrolytes in the body.
Pomegranate
You don’t want the onset of colds and flu to keep
you down, so eat pomegranates. They contain a substance known as punicalagin that helps to
fight the flu.
Tea
Too much caffeine is not good for you, so enjoy green tea instead. It
helps you concentrate by working as a mild stimulant and boosts your
antioxidant levels.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin seeds are great for topping up on your magnesium levels - this
mineral is a must if you want to improve
your mood and beat depression.
Flaxseed
This seed has shown promise for treating
arthritis. It contains omega-3s that produce prostaglandins, substances that
can decrease inflammation in the body.
Acai
Juice
Acai berries contain bioflavonoids, plant pigments
that relieve varicose veins while keeping blood vessels healthy. This is
important if you’re on your feet all day.
Walnuts
Research has found that
walnuts can reverse signs of brain aging.
Just a handful a day can give you the brain boost you need to help you function
at your peak.
Spinach
By keeping your red blood cells healthy, spinach’s high iron content improves oxygen transportation through
the body which boosts your energy and overall health.
Eat more of the above superfoods to keep you
strong and healthy so that you can care for those who aren’t.
And here's a SuperFood Guide for Super Seniors!
Originally born in Flagstaff, Arizona, Felicity Dryer was raised by her parents (more or less modern-day hippies) to always make her health a top priority. Throughout her life, she has focused on encouraging others to reach for and achieve their personal goals. Now she lives in sunny Los Angeles where she is pursuing her career as a freelance health writer, and continuing to help those seeking encouragement to keep moving forward to achieve their goals.
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