STAYING HEALTHY WITH SUPERFOODS

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With cold and flu season in full swing, you need all the help you can get to fight off germs. Certain "superfoods" rich in vitamins and minerals boost your immune system, plus they can help you lose weight and protect against heart disease and other ailments. These 10 powerful, protective foods were chosen by The Cleveland Clinic, ranked a top hospital in the country by U.S. News & World Report.(more after the break)

 

Bell peppers
Nutrients: Vitamins B1, B2, B6 and C, fiber, folate
Tip: Choose ones with vivid color and green stems.

Berries
Nutrients: Vitamin C, fiber, folate, manganese, potassium
Tip: Choose bright berries that move freely in their containers.

Black beans
Nutrients: Vitamin B, protein, iron, folate, copper, magnesium, manganese, potassium, zinc
Tip: Canned beans have the same amount of nutrients as dried, but are higher in sodium.

Broccoli
Nutrients: Vitamins B6, C, E and K, folate, fiber
Tip: The greener the florets, the more nutrients you'll get.

Kiwi
Nutrients: Vitamins C and E, fiber, magnesium, potassium
Tip: Pick those that are soft to the touch, like a ripe peach.

Oats
Nutrients: Soluble fiber, magnesium, manganese, potassium, zinc
Tip: Avoid packets with added sugar.

Oranges
Nutrients: Vitamins A, B6 and C, folate, potassium, fiber
Tip: Look for shiny fruit that is relatively free of blemishes.

Sweet potatoes (with skin)
Nutrients: Vitamins A, C, and E, copper, fiber
Tip: Choose firm ones that are smooth and relatively free of blemishes.

Tomatoes
Nutrients: Vitamins A, C and E, potassium, fiber, lycopene
Tip: Use no-salt-added canned tomatoes if fresh aren't in season

Salmon
Nutrients: Vitamins B16, B12 and D, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, omega-3 fatty acids
Tip: Fresh salmon meat gives slightly when pressed. Any scales should look shiny and bright.