In the spirit of March Madness, we thought it would be fun to have a Superfood Showdown! Each week, we will match-up some of the best (and freshest) competitors in the food world and pit them against each other. Who will reign victorious? You’ll have to stay tuned to find out!
So, what makes these foods all-stars? They are bursting with nutrients! Eating them can give you energy, may reduce the risk of disease, and will help you maintain a healthy weight. All leading to a happier, healthier life.
Romaine lettuce is low in calories and high in nutrients. The high vitamin C content partnered with high levels of beta-carotene make it a heart-healthy green. Romaine is also a healthy contender due to its levels of folic acid, which helps reduce the risk of heart attacks and stroke.
Kale has many exceptional health benefits. Listed as a cruciferous vegetable, or rather a member of the cabbage family, it is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients. Kale also scores major points in its ability to help lower cholesterol.
Romaine wins this round!
Strawberries are a popular favorite and really help boost the immune system with high levels of antioxidants. They are also rich in iodine, which comes in handy when regulating the nervous system. These tasty treats are packed with vitamin C, which can actually help you beat the common cold.
Blackberries are ripe with magnesium to help regulate blood pressure and prevent heart arrhythmia. They work well to aid the digestive system, since they contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. With all of the areas of the body that benefit from blackberries, this certainly is an all-star team.
Strawberries win this round!
Sweet potatoes are a naturally sweet and nutrient dense alternative to regular potatoes. Their defense is strong as they slowly release their natural sugars into the bloodstream after consumption, which keeps blood sugar spikes at bay. Potassium is actually the MVP of this team. It’s an important electrolyte found in sweet potatoes, helping to maintain a steady heartbeat and support nerve functions throughout the body.
Don’t count this strange looking Superfood out! Rutabagas are root vegetables, a cross between a cabbage and turnips. They are also high in potassium, making them perfect for this match-up. These veggies aid in lowering blood pressure and reducing stress on blood vessels. Rutabagas are bursting with fiber content, which allows them to promote healthy digestion.
Rutabagas win this round!
Believe it or not, leeks should be a part of your diet on a regular basis. Team leek is full of flavonoids and sulfur-containing nutrients, which promote cardiac health, while decreasing the risk of type 2 diabetes and colorectal cancer. Leeks, like garlic and onion, are actually part of the Allium family of vegetables. Yet, they tend to add a more delicate, sweeter flavor.
Chives are not just a common topping for your baked potatoes or favorite dishes, they’re also a nutrient rich member of the onion family. Their strong offense is supported by high levels of vitamin K, which provides bone strength and prevents deminerization throughout the body. Oddly enough, chives are also a great source of vitamin C and can help you with that stuffy nose or cold.
Chives win this round!
