Five superfoods for women

Women are being encouraged to familiarise themselves with superfoods that have a high nutritional density to help minimise stress and hormone fluctuations.

The health and nutrition experts at Prepped Pots powered by MuscleFood are advising women to look into superfoods that support their hormones and provide them with essential nutrients.

Despite the nutritional needs for men and women being very similar, women tend to be more prone to stress and hormone fluctuations.

Foods like dark chocolate and salmon are great for supporting low moods and changes experienced during the menopause.

Ashleigh Tosh, nutrition expert from Prepped Pots said: “The nutritional needs for men and women are largely similar but there are certain nutrients that are more important to one gender than the other for different reasons.

“For example, women of reproductive ages will need more iron due to how much is lost during menstruation.

“Similarly, women who are going through the menopause may benefit from more calcium and vitamin D to support their bone health during this time.

“We’ve put together a range of superfoods that women may want to consider taking in order to put those all important nutrients back into their bodies during the different points in their life.”

Superfoods for women:

Spinach

Dark leafy greens like spinach and kale are rich in folate (vitamin B9) which plays a key role in cell growth. Because of this, folate is particularly important in women who are pregnant and those who are trying to get pregnant.

Salmon

Salmon is one of the best superfoods for women as it’s high in vitamin D and helps support healthy bones. As women age and approach the menopause they become more likely to suffer from bone loss. Foods with high levels of Vitamin D can be hard to find so it’s definitely worth loading up on salmon!

Dark chocolate

Dark chocolate is known to help alleviate period pains thanks to its high magnesium levels, it’s also a great mood booster and can help relieve stress. In order to really benefit from dark chocolate opt for brands that are unsweetened and free from additives.

Edamame

These beans are full of fibre and are great for helping women experiencing hot flashes during the menopause. They do however need to be taken long term in order to see the benefits.

Ginger

Bloating is a common uncomfortable feeling experienced by women especially as it’s a PMS symptom. Ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties means it’s great for beating the bloat, it also promotes digestion and helps with nausea.