Eating healthily is essential to feeling your best, both physically and mentally. It can be difficult to know which foods are the healthiest options, so we’ve put together this guide of the top 10 healthiest foods you should include in your diet.
From superfoods such as kale and chia seeds, to omega-3 rich salmon and avocado, these nutrient-dense ingredients will provide you with all the vitamins and minerals required for a balanced diet. Read on to discover how adding these nutritious foods into your meals can help keep you feeling healthy and energized all day long.
1. Kale: Kale is a leafy green vegetable packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and fiber. It’s also a good source of calcium, magnesium, and iron. Not only is it an excellent source of nutrients, but kale is low in calories and fat making it perfect for weight loss or maintenance diets.
2. Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are small black seeds that are packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids – both essential components of any healthy diet. Just one tablespoon contains 5 grams of protein along with 4 grams of dietary fiber which can help keep you feeling fuller for longer periods of time. They also contain numerous minerals such as phosphorus, calcium and magnesium.
3. Salmon: Salmon is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids which have been known to reduce inflammation and improve heart health. It’s also an excellent source of essential amino acids and high quality protein, making it great for muscle growth and repair after exercise.
4. Avocado: Avocados are a popular superfood that are packed with healthy fats, fiber, vitamins A, C, E & K as well as potassium and magnesium. Eating avocados can help lower cholesterol levels as well as provide energy throughout the day. The healthy fats found in avocados will also help you feel fuller for longer periods of time curbing any cravings.
5. Quinoa: Quinoa is a complete protein which means it contains all nine essential amino acids. It’s also rich in fiber, phosphorus, magnesium and iron making it an excellent choice for vegetarians or vegans who need to supplement their diets with wholesome sources of nutrients.
6. Blueberries: Blueberries are full of antioxidants and vitamin C, making them a great addition to your diet. Eating blueberries can help reduce inflammation as well as improve digestion and cognitive function due to their high concentration of polyphenols.
7. Almonds: Almonds are packed with healthy fats, protein, vitamins (B1 & E) as well as minerals such as manganese and magnesium. Not only are they a great source of plant-based protein, but almonds can help reduce cholesterol as well as keep you feeling fuller for longer periods of time.
8. Eggs: Eggs are one of the most nutrient dense foods available and contain all nine essential amino acids required for a balanced diet. They’re also low in calories while being high in health promoting vitamins such as vitamins A & B12, folate, choline and selenium. Eating eggs can help improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and stroke.
9. Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates which provide your body with long lasting energy throughout the day. They’re also rich in vitamins A, C and B6 as well as minerals such as potassium and magnesium. Plus, they’re low in calories making them great for weight control or maintenance diets.
10. Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt is high in protein while being relatively low in sugar and fat. It provides your body with essential amino acids along with calcium which can help improve bone health. Greek yogurt also contains probiotics which can help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system.
By adding these top 10 healthiest foods into your diet you will be providing your body with all of the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and energized throughout the day. Eating nutrient-dense, wholesome foods like this can lead to improved physical performance, better overall health and weight control.
Plus, adding variety to your diet will help keep things interesting and prevent you from getting bored with what you’re eating. So try incorporating some of these superfoods into your meals for improved health!