Many of us care a great deal about our body and what we put in it. There are foods you should avoid...mostlyjunk food and then there are foods you should have...If you have been aiming for a more healthy diet, here is a list of 7 healthy foods to love…
7. Watermelon
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This is the fruit of an annual vine. It belongs to the melon and squash family. It originated in Africa. One slice of watermelon only has 152 calories in it along with 562 milligrams of potassium and 167 mg of vitamin A. It also has47 mg of vitamin C and plenty of other good stuff which qualifies it to become a healthy food.
6. Tomato
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I cannot leave tomatoes off of this list. My six year old is a big tomato eater! She can’t seem to get enough of them. That is good though, because the tomato is full of antioxidants. Eating tomatoes each day cuts the risk of getting stomach, bladder and colon cancers by half. One tomato only has twenty six calories in it. Super healthy and low in calories? What more could you ask for!
5. Pineapple
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Somehow, when I think of the pineapple, I think of Spongebob Squarepants. I guess that is because he lives in a pineapple under the sea and because my daughter can't get enough of that cartoon. The pineapple is a tropical plant with spiny leaves and is native to Brazil. One cup of raw pineapple has 76 calories and is rich in Vitamin C which of course keeps the flu at bay.
4. Apricots
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Apricots besides being delicious are also is rich in easily-digestible natural sugars, vitamins A and C, riboflavin (B2) and niacin (B3). They are also an excellent source of minerals like calcium, phosphorus, iron and traces of sodium, sulphur, manganese, cobalt and bromine. They are also really good for the eyes because of the beta-carotene that they contain. If you are ever looking for a healthy snack, then you may want to try snacking on some apricots.
3. Cantaloupe
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There is 117 mg of vitamin C in half a cantaloupe and don’t forget about the beta-carotene that is in it. They are bothpowerful antioxidants. Did you know that half of a cantaloupe contains 853 mg of potassium? This is nearly twice as much as a banana, which will help to lower your blood pressure. Don’t worry, because a half only contains 97 calories.
2. Cranberries
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These gorgeous berries may be little but their health benefitsmost certainly aren't. The proanthocyanidin found in them helps fight urinary tract infections. It also helps in reducing the risk ofheart disease and prevent kidney stones. And of course like most berries, these are full of anti-oxidants!
1. Nuts
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Nuts, including hazelnuts, almonds, pine nuts, pecans, walnuts and pistachios have polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. Research has also shown that nuts are good for lowering cholesterol. Yes, they do contain high calories, but one and a half ounces will be good for you.
There you have 7 healthy foods. There are plenty of other healthy foods you can consume, such as berries, grapes, cereals, oatmeal, yogurts and much more. What is your favorite healthy food? Mine is watermelon!
Top Photo Credit: DarioMilano Food Styling & Photography
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are some healthy foods I should include in my diet?
- Try incorporating fruits, vegetables, nuts, lean proteins, whole grains, yogurt, and leafy greens for balanced nutrition.
- How can healthy foods improve my energy levels?
- Nutrient-rich foods provide essential vitamins and minerals that boost energy and support overall well-being.
- Are nuts a good snack option?
- Yes, nuts are packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a satisfying and nutritious snack.
- Why are leafy greens important for women’s health?
- Leafy greens offer vital nutrients like iron, calcium, and folate, which support bone health and hormonal balance.
- Can yogurt help with digestion?
- Absolutely, yogurt contains probiotics that promote good gut health and improve digestion.
- Is it okay to eat fruit every day?
- Yes, fruits are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, and eating them daily supports your immune system and skin health.
- How do whole grains benefit my body?
- Whole grains provide fiber that helps with digestion and can reduce the risk of heart disease.
- What’s a simple way to add more veggies to my meals?
- Try adding a handful of spinach or kale to your smoothies or including a side salad with lunch and dinner.
- Can healthy foods help with stress management?
- Certain foods like nuts and leafy greens contain nutrients that support brain health and can help reduce stress.
- How do I balance indulgence with healthy eating?
- Enjoy treats in moderation and focus on consistently choosing nutrient-dense foods for overall balance.