5 superfoods for weight loss

New Delhi, Sep 26: Having a healthy body is all about feeling great, having more energy and keeping a balanced diet. However, in a culture centered around computers, travelling and targets, it's no wonder that health seems to take a backseat. In order to gain health and fitness, one needs a proper diet regiment that should consist of superfoods. The term “superfoods” is often used for those well known and commonly eaten foods that contain the most valuable nutrients to fulfill your daily energy needs. Here's our list of five of them that promote health and weight loss through their nutritional value.Apple There's a reason why Apple is number one on superfoods list for weight loss. It is probably one of the most versatile and easily available foods in the market that is nutrient- and fiber-rich and which can be used in everything from beverages to deserts. Low-calorie and full of fiber, apples help maintain your blood-sugar level, and is ideal on-the-go low-calorie snack. According to the Food Standards Code, sodium level in a low sodium food must be less than 120 mgs per 100 grams. An Apple can be part of your low-sodium diet as one medium apple contains nearly no sodium while providing almost 4g of fiber. Apples also contain some vitamin A, potassium and vitamin C.Eggs The humble egg can be your best friend in terms of losing weight. Eggs are a rich source of protein and nutrients, and are not only good for you (in moderation) but very filling. Not only it is cheap, it is simply delicious! The good part about this food is that it makes you feel full. An egg provides our body's requirement of essential amino acids along with potassium, calcium, iron, vitamin A, vitamin B2, vitamin B9, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12. Egg white omelettes are a popular choice for the health conscious people around the world. Dark chocolateThere's tendency to associate chocolate with weight gain. But a nibble of dark chocolate (the actual cocoa powder) can slow down digestion so you feel full longer and in turn eat less at your next meal. Numerous studies have shown that dark chocolate can improve heart health, reduce LDL ("bad") cholesterol, decrease the risk of blood clots, and increase blood flow to the brain. A small square of dark chocolate offers good amount of antioxidants. Also, higher the cocoa content, the healthier it is for you. Instant Oats Instant oatmeal is a delicious dish for breakfast, which also helps you in reducing your hunger. It is largely because of the fiber in oats that forms gels to fill up. That gel in turn delays the emptying of your stomach so that you don't feel hungry quickly. Not only they are rich in fiber, they also contain various minerals and phytonutrients. Researches have indicated that intake of oats cuts your risk of high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. Prefer to choose oatmeal that contains whole oats and low sodium.Raspberries and other berries Remember, all sorts of berries are good for you. They have highest antioxidant content among the fruits and are excellent sources of several phytochemicals. According to nutritionists just 100g of blueberries offer five times the age-defying antioxidants as compared to other fruit and vegetables. Among the lot, blueberries are considered to be the best. They are high in vitamin C and a good source of fibre. They are also considered to contain, pterostilbene, which acts to protect the heart in the same way as cholesterol-lowering drugs. One to two cups of blueberries are advised to be consumed daily to obtain the full health benefits of this amazing fruit.