Here at Xen-Do we believe in a holistic approach to healthy living. Our diet is just as important to a healthy lifestyle as staying fit. What’s the point in coming to a martial arts class if you undo all your hard work the moment you get home and open the fridge? Fit for life incorporates every aspect of our lives. 

Here are some of Xen-Do’s favourite superfoods to incorporate as part of a balanced diet:

Blueberries

The Yoda of the Superfood Order, this fruit has been making its way onto superfood lists since time immemorial and for good reason. Blueberries are rich in vitamin K and C as well as numerous antioxidants. They are well-known to reduce the chance of developing heart disease and reduce blood pressure. They are also a fantastic way to liven up a dull, grey porridge first thing in the morning!

Some studies have even shown a link between the consumption of blueberries and improved memory. We can’t remember where we heard that one though…

Limes

A new admission to the superfood party is limes and we are not surprised; the health benefits are staggering. Limes are basically like an organic mouthwash for your entire body. High in a special compound called flavonoid, which has antibacterial and detoxifying properties, limes help clear out the digestive system from start to finish. If applied externally, the oil in the lime peel can also help to rejuvenate the skin.

As if that wasn’t enough, the acidity within limes has been proven to assist in the reduction of fat in the body.  So add a squirt of lime juice to your water intake and you’ll be reaping the rewards in no time.

Chocolate

No, seriously. We aren’t winding you up. Honest!

It has been found that certain peoples of Central America are some of the healthiest on the planet and studies have partly linked this to their consumption of cocoa. Cocoa is a good source of iron, magnesium and zinc: essential minerals that the body needs. They help regulate blood pressure and there is even some evidence to suggest cocoa consumption reduces stress levels.

Having said that, this section most certainly comes with a warning label. The majority of chocolate found in the UK is high in sugar content with a small element of cocoa. If you want the good stuff, you are going to have to stick to dark chocolate only. Remember, moderation is most definitely your friend when it comes to this superfood or you’ll soon find the negatives far outweigh the positives.

Garlic

Of course, everyone already knows that garlic has the uncanny ability to ward off vampires but were you aware that, when used in a more traditional way (i.e. in food) it is a great way to maintain a healthy level of cholesterol.

If that wasn’t enough, it tastes absolutely delicious with almost any meal.

Did you know: during the Mongol Empire garlic was considered to be so precious that it was even used as a form of currency?

Fish

Unfortunately, Captain Birdseye hasn’t got a great deal to do with this last one. When we say fish we definitely aren’t talking about the battered, deep-fried variety.

Oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines are basically the best thing you can eat if you want to maintain a healthy heart. Tinned versions are often very cheaply available in supermarkets and can be a great way to liven up a salad into a nutritious meal.

Superfood Watch: Coming Soon!

Researchers have discovered a new strain of seaweed that tastes like bacon and is twice as healthy as kale. It is uncertain when this will be available for consumption by the public with the project in its infancy but definitely one to watch out for in the future. Did we mention it tastes like bacon! Don’t believe us? Check out the facts here.