Eating healthy foods will not only keep you looking great, it will help you feeling great as well. A healthy diet of natural foods that the contain nutrients and minerals your body craves will boost your energy levels and keep your body operating at its top level. Unlike processed foods, natural and healthy foods are easier to digest and contain little to no artificial components. While some people may think of healthy foods as simply fruits and vegetables, there are many more healthy foods that your body can benefit from. Incorporate these 10 healthy foods into your diet and reap the benefits.
1. Low fat or fat-free plain yogurt. Yogurt is an integral part of any diet because it is a great source of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, zinc and protein. Yogurt is low in calories and saturated fat, so it will not affect your waistline. Yogurt is also considered a superfood because it is predigested and packed with probiotics, which keep the digestive system operating efficiently.
2. Nuts. Sometimes nuts get a bad reputation because of their caloric content, but when eaten in moderation, all nuts can be healthful. Nuts are packed with protein, which will keep you feeling full longer. Studies also show that eating nuts can help lower cholesterol and promote healthy digestion. Nuts also contain omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins, which boost energy. Just be careful not to consume too many nuts, as their fat count and caloric content can actually work against you.
3. Broccoli. Broccoli is a superfood that helps to keep bones healthy and fight certain types of cancer. One serving of broccoli also contains the recommended daily dose of vitamin C and vitamin K.
4. Salmon. Fish contains many of the nutrients and proteins that bodies require to operate efficiently. Salmon contains the recommended daily dose of protein, as well as many other nutrients. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, phosphorus, iron and many vitamins. Eat this fish for a boost of energy and a meal that will keep you full.
5. Avocados. Add an avocado to your salad to help you absorb key nutrients and also get the folate your body craves. Folate reduces the risk of heart disease, and eating provides healthy fat that can actually help lower cholesterol.
6. Spinach. Spinach and other leafy greens pack tons of nutrients that your body craves. Spinach has also been proven to help fight cancer effectively when eaten regularly. Eating spinach can also be good for your eyesight as spinach contains lutein and zeaxanthin which both help boost eye health.
7. Beans. Eating legumes like beans, peas and lentils have been proven to reduce the risk of heart disease when consumed regularly. Beans also contain antioxidants that are good for your body and skin.
8. Sweet Potatoes. Sweet Potatoes are one of the best sources of vitamins and nutrients when it comes to vegetables. Sweet Potatoes pack vitamin C, potassium, fiber and carotenoids. These hearty vegetables will also keep you full longer and resist the urge to eat between meals.
9. Quinoa. If you are going to have a carbohydrate with a meal, quinoa is a premium choice. This grain is small and relatively flavorless when eaten by itself, but acts as an excellent side for vegetables and meat. Quinoa has healthy doses of fiber and protein and also is a good source of iron.
10. Kiwi. In terms of fruit, it doesn’t get much better than kiwis. Doctors often place kiwi above oranges and other fruits as being more beneficial in terms of vitamins and minerals. Kiwis pack the daily requirement for vitamin C along with potassium, fiber, vitamin A and vitamin E.
