HEALTH

We get it, you're a busy gal! It's hard to always eat healthy when you're on the go and it's easier to reach for that bag of chips than to make a homemade lunch. But, eating healthy not only benefits your physical health but *also* your overall wellbeing, plus your future-self will thank you. By adding a small scoop of these superfoods to your daily diet, it's easy to fuel your body with healthy nutrients while *still* enjoying tasty and quick meals.

Before you start reading, just remember that as much as these are great additions to your diet, remember to eat them in moderation. Of course it's important to eat healthy, but it's also important to enjoy your food and treat yourself now and again! Everyone is unique and each superfood will work differently for each individual so make sure to listen to your body and know what's right for you. Try these out and choose your favorites. You don't have to incorporate them all, you do you girl!

Acai

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Acai has become one the *trendiest* foods on the planet and it is also one of the most nutrient dense foods. You are probably familiar with this food as being the base of your acai bowl, but before it becomes the delicious frozen base, it is a little purple berry. According to healthline.com, the berry gets this *beautiful* color from anthocyannis, which is an antioxidant that helps protect your cells. Acai is so rich in antioxidants, it actually has three times more than blueberries! This wonder fruit may also help in decreasing cholesterol levels and helps brain function. Acai certainly fits the criteria for delicious and nutritious!

How to add it to your diet: blend a frozen acai packet into a smoothie or use it as a base for your smoothie bowl and top it with fresh fruit and granola!

Cacao

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Have you ever wondered where chocolate comes from? Welll, it actually starts out as a cacao bean that is then harvested and produced into the sweet cocoa powder found in chocolate. Cacao has a *ton* of health benefits that definitley make it worth including into your diet. They are filled with antioxidants and minerals such as iron and magnesium. According to naturespath.com, they even have been shown to help with depression, stress, blood pressure and heart health. Trying these for the first time might taste a bit unexpected because of the bitter taste, but there are many ways you can mix it into meals you already love!

How to add it to your diet: add a scoop of cacao powder to a smoothie to give it a chocolatey taste, or replace chocolate chips with cacao nibs to cookies, pancakes and more!

Hemp seeds

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Hemp seeds haven't always had the best reputation which is why so many people are scared to give them a try. But we're here to set the record straight and let you know that they are filled with a healthy dose of healthy fats, protein and fiber. According to naturespath.com these nutrients can help support healthy weight loss by keeping you fueled for longer, improve your digestion, and enhance your hair, skin and nail health! 

How to add it to your diet: try topping your morning yogurt, smoothie or oatmeal with a small spoonful!

Chia seeds 

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This superfood is taking the world by *storm* and for good reason. Harvard's school of public health found that they're rich in fiber, protein, calcium, zinc and contain *all* nine essential fats that can't be made by the body. When incorporated into a balanced diet, they can help improve your heart, digestion and energy levels.

How to add it to your diet: try and blend it into a smoothie, make chia pudding or add it to your breakfast bowl!

Flax seeds

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Flax seeds don't sound too fun or exciting, but trust us, your body will thank you. According to healthline.com, flax seeds contain high amounts of protein, fiber, healthy fats and vitamins. These properties can help with digestion, reduce the risk of cancer and help keep your blood pressure at a healthy level. Flax seeds can be *especially* beneficial for those with high blood pressure, diabetes, those who are trying to lose weight and people who follow a vegan diet.

How to add it to your diet: try adding them to your drinks, using them as a topper for your salad or mixing them into cookies, oatmeal and other baked goods!

We'd love to see your creations! If you try out these superfoods tag us @girlslifemag!

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by Lily Baker and Sara Cathcart | 10/21/2020