Happy day Yogis! Dan the Yoga Man here with this week's yogi blog!
We all know that whatever you put into your body, you are either feeding or fighting disease. What we eat is very important! Although it can be difficult for some to convert to veganism, it is still possible to incorporate vegan foods into your everyday diet.
So, I compiled a list of my Top 5 Vegan Superfoods to share with you.
1. GOJI BERRIES
Rich in antioxidants (which fight free radical damage) and vitamin A, there have been some studies that suggest goji berries can help fend off Alzheimer’s. According to Navitas Naturals, one of the leading purveyors of the berries, gojis contain 18 amino acids and, per ounce, also contain more vitamin C than oranges, more beta carotene than carrots, and more iron than soybeans or spinach.
2. QUINOA
Although it’s commonly referred to as a grain, quinoa is actually a seed that’s related to spinach and beets. Quinoa comes in a variety of colors, and has two excellent things going for it: 1) It’s gluten-free, and 2) It’s a vegan source of complete protein. Quinoa is readily available in grocery stores, and is easy and quick-cooking, making it a nice alternative to rice.
3. POMEGRANATE
Juice in pomegranate seeds contain ellagic acid and punic alagin which fight damage from free radicals and preserves the collagen in your skin. It’s also a powerful source of phytonutrients that promote healthy skin.
Pomegranates are also high in vitamins C, B5 and phytochemicals. In 2000, the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published an experiment that found that men who consumed pomegranate juice raised their antioxidant levels and concurrently lowered their levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol by 90%.
4. TURMERIC
This yellow spice, commonly found in Indian cooking, contains a wealth of beneficial qualities. Curcumin, which the compound that gives turmeric its yellow color, is considered to be both antibiotic and anti-inflammatory, and studies have shown that it can help fight cancer and Alzheimer’s. Turmeric can easily be consumed in a daily tea, similar to the Japanese tradition.
5. CACAO POWDER
Researchers found the antioxidant activity of dark chocolate and cocoa powder was equivalent to or higher than that found in some other so-called ‘super fruit’ powders or juices, including acai berry, blueberry, cranberry, and pomegranate. Non-alkalized cocoa contains two particular types of antioxidants: polyphenols and flavonols. These substances help keep the arteries healthy and are protective against cardiovascular disease.
There you have it! I urge you to incorporate these foods into your daily diet. You will notice the effects within a few days and thank yourself later.
Namaste yogis, Stay Funky!
Yoga Man Dan
IG: @yogamandan