When it comes to choosing healthy foods, there are some that deserve to be at the top of your list. They have the power to make your life easier, help you look and feel your best and improve your overall health.
Here are a few of these incredibly healthful food choices:
Vegetables and Fruit
The world’s favorite vegetables are not only tasty, but they also have the power to help keep you healthy. Vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can protect your body against disease. Some of the most popular and healthiest options include broccoli, carrots, kale and spinach.
Broccoli packs a powerful dose of sulforaphane, an isothiocyanate that may prevent cancer by stimulating detoxification enzymes in the body. It is also rich in fiber, which helps to control your appetite and regulate blood sugar levels.
Spinach is another green superfood that packs the power to boost your immune system and fight off colds. This nutrient-dense vegetable is high in vitamin A, folate and potassium. It is also low in calories, so it’s a great option for anyone looking to cut down on calories while still getting the nutrients they need.
Bananas are a delicious, high-fiber snack that’s packed with potassium. They’re also low in calories and contain a healthy dose of magnesium.
Berries are full of antioxidants that can boost your immunity, lower your risk of heart disease and aid in weight loss. They’re a great choice for breakfast, especially if you eat them with yogurt and other fruits or add them to smoothies.
Yogurt is an easy way to pack in probiotics, which help your gut bacteria thrive. It is also an excellent source of calcium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc and riboflavin. Choose a plain yogurt without added sugar, and you’ll get the most benefit from it.
Oats are a nutrient-rich whole grain that is rich in fiber and can help you control your hunger. Try eating them with other superfoods, such as berries, nuts and seeds.
Legumes are a good source of protein and are an important part of a balanced diet. They also provide many other nutrients that are essential for a healthy body.
Beans and lentils are loaded with fiber, helping you feel fuller for longer. They can also reduce the amount of cholesterol in your blood, according to the American Heart Association.
Extra-virgin olive oil is one of the healthiest fats on the market. It is rich in a heart-healthy polyunsaturated fat called oleic acid and is thought to reduce your blood pressure and decrease your risk of type 2 diabetes.
Dark chocolate is a treat that’s not only healthy for you but also has the ability to lift your mood. It’s a rich source of flavonoids and contains antioxidants that can help prevent the damage to your cells caused by free radicals.
Coconut oil is another healthy alternative, containing MCTs (monounsaturated fatty acids). This type of fat has been shown to lower insulin levels and blood sugar, which can lead to healthier heart and brain function.
