Top Foods for Women’s Health

Eggs are a powerhouse of nutrition for women as a source of easily digestible protein, healthy fats and choline, a nutrient that’s been linked to lower rates of breast cancer. Start your day with omega-3, cage-free eggs when possible for the most nutritious, helpful option.

Sweet potatoes are a source of complex carbohydrates for blood sugar balance, normalizing appetite and mood. They’re also high in vitamin A for skin, eye and urinary tract support. Sweet potatoes make a vibrant addition to any meal, any time of the day.

Women should reach for lentils at least once a week for balanced blood sugar, weight maintenance, cancer preventative compounds, lean protein and plant-based iron. Red, black, green and brown, there are as many varieties of lentils as there are recipes, so getting bored of this humble legume won’t be an issue.

Kale and other dark leafy greens are a source of calcium, iron, magnesium and vitamin A, all nutrients that women need to consume every day. These versatile veggies also contain many phytonutrients that have been shown to reduce the risk of developing certain diseases. Add dark leafy greens to smoothies, salads, side dishes, pasta and more, just a handful a day does a world of good.

To get the most out of the clove, let it sit once chopped or crushed for 10 to 30 minutes before adding to a source of heat or acid, like a dressing — this helps to release its anti-cancer compounds.

Asparagus is a source of folate, a nutrient that women in their childbearing years need to make sure they get enough of to set them up for a healthy pregnancy — even if it’s not on the agenda for a few years! This low-calorie veggie is also a source of prebiotic fibre, food for probiotics, contributing to proper immune function and absorption of the many essential women’s health nutrients.

Rejoice; dark chocolate is a women’s health superfood! The flavonoids in cocoa work to reduce the risk of arterial clogs in women by stopping blood platelets from sticking together. Dark chocolate also provides a mild energy boost to keep you going stronger, longer. Choose chocolate with at least 70% cocoa (just an ounce or two a day) for best results.

Women who relax (or rush off) with a morning cup of Joe may have a lower risk of mortality, according to the National Cancer Institute. It’s important to drink your coffee black, skip the cream and sugar, and stick to one or two cups per day to get the most out of this antioxidant-packed brew though. When you do feel like indulging, skip the coffee house and blend up a healthier iced latte at home a more wholesome cup.

Women who eat blueberries receive age-defying, heart health-promoting antioxidants in just half a cup per day, whether eaten fresh or frozen (unsweetened). The many wholesome compounds in blueberries can also help to prevent urinary tract infections, memory loss and certain types of cancers. With more than double the amount of antioxidants than most fruits, blueberries are a clear choice when it comes to women’s health. Get your fill on top of oatmeal, yogurt, tossed in a salad or baked up into something sweet.

Get the recipe for Healthy Blueberry Mini Muffins

Allison Day is a cookbook author, nutritionist (RHN) and the creator of the award-winning food blog Yummy Beet.