5 Surprising Superfoods You Should Be Eating

iStockPhoto/Fitness Magazine
iStockPhoto/Fitness Magazine

By Danielle Paquette

Apples, almonds, broccoli. If you eat the same things every week, you may be missing out on an easy way to boost your health. "Many of us pass up foods that are nutritional powerhouses, because we don't know how to prepare them," says Angela Ginn, RD, a nutritionist in Baltimore. Bust out of your culinary rut with these five disease fighters.

Related: 10 Superfoods for Gorgeous Skin and Hair

Bamboo Shoots
Why?
A great low-calorie, high-fiber veggie packed with antioxidants that help ward off cancer-causing free radicals.
How to Enjoy: Find bamboo shoots in the canned-food section of your supermarket. Add to salads, stir-fries, and soups.


Pumpkin Seeds

Why? Rich in protein and phytosterols, these little treats have been shown to reduce levels of harmful LDL cholesterol.
How to Enjoy: Eat them plain for an afternoon snack or sprinkle some on top of your salad for added crunch.

Related: Live to 100: 10 Diet Tips to Live Longer


Swiss Chard
Why? This leafy green is loaded with potassium, which helps to balance electrolytes and prevent muscle cramps.
How to Enjoy: Simply saute Swiss chard and garlic in olive oil for a delicious side dish.

Kiwis
Why? Kiwis have more immune-system-strengthening vitamin C than grapefruits, oranges, or strawberries.
How to Enjoy: Switch out your usual berries with kiwis to put on Greek yogurt, or toss them in your favorite salad.

Related: 11 Healthy Ways to Detox

Beets
Why? Beets are rich in folic acid, which has been show to lower levels of homocysteine, an amino acid in blood linked to heart disease.
How to Enjoy: Roast beets to bring out their sweetness. Drizzle them with olive oil and place in a 375-degree oven for 30 minutes to an hour.

More from FITNESS Magazine:
Buddy Up: The Partner Workout
Go with the Grain: Whole-Grain Soups, Salads and Dinner Recipes
10 Strategies to Lose Fat and Keep It Off