What Makes a Food One of the "Best Foods for You"?
For a food to be considered healthy, it must contain some type of mineral, chemical, vitamin or molecule that helps protect and rebuild the cells in the body. There are a huge number of these compounds, but the following pack the most punch.
Fiber
Fiber is the "bulk" material found in plant matter. It is an indigestible carbohydrate that serves a critical function in the body. As it travels through the intestines, the fiber absorbs fat, cholesterol and toxins from the body. Fiber is also necessary to regulate the intestines. It has been shown that diet high in fiber will reduce sickness by properly (and quickly) flushing toxins from the body. Fiber is arguably the most important part of your diet. It will help flush toxins out of your body and bolster your immune system.
Unsaturated Fats
These "good fats" have the ability to counteract the effects of "bad fats." They can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, help alleviate joint aches and pains and can help fight memory loss and dementia.
AntioxidantsAntioxidants are a molecule that prevents other molecules from oxidizing. When oxidation occurs within a cell, it can severely damage important structures like DNA. This reaction can also lead to the formation of cancer.
Vitamins and Minerals
Our bodies need a constant supply of vitamins and minerals to properly function. These compounds are used for a variety of functions throughout the body such as the conversion of food to energy or the reparation of bones. Foods containing a wide range of vitamins and minerals are regarded as extremely important for healthy living.Probiotic Bacteria
This helpful bacteria resides within the colon and plays an important part in the digestive process. They help prevent the formation of pathogens and toxins and keep the colon regulated. Evidence has also shown that it can help reduce cholesterol. In particular people with digestive issues (IBS and colitis) will benefit the most from probiotic sources.The List of the 10 Best Foods for You
10. Greek Style YogurtGreek style yogurt (plain, 0% fat) is a thicker, creamier version of yogurt. It contains all the benefits of regular yogurt - probiotic bacteria, and calcium, but also has 50% more protein and 50% less sugar.
9. Green Tea
Green tea has been used for centuries in Asia as a medicine for good health, and for good reason. Green tea is packed with antioxidants which help fight off cancer. It has also been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, lower cholesterol and also burn fat.
8. Almonds
Almonds are rich in good fats, fiber, vitamins and minerals and make for a great calorie-dense snack. They have been proven to lower cholesterol and are an effective food for weight loss.
7. Salmon
Salmon is a food that's high in omega fatty acids (good fats) and high in protein. Omega fatty acids have been shown to help with heart disease, joint pains, brain function and help lower cholesterol.
6. Walnuts
Walnuts contain important omega fatty acids, high levels of antioxidants and are a great source of fiber. They have been shows to reduce cholesterol levels and aid in the prevention of diabetes.
5. Beans
Beans are a high-fiber alternative to meat. They are a great source of protein and have lower saturated fat than meat, plus they contain antioxidants. Beans have also been linked with preventing heart disease and cancer. Consider substituting servings of meat with beans for an extra healthy meal.
4. Spinach
This deep green leaf has fantastic health benefits. Spinach is packed with nutrients and has been linked with the prevention of cancer. Some other benefits include its anti-inflammatory properties, blood pressure regulation, strengthening of the immune system and promoting healthy skin.
3. Quinoa
The Incas held the quinoa crop as sacred, they were right to as it is the healthiest alternative to rice and pasta. High in protein, fiber and essential vitamins and minerals, it is the clear choice. Substitue quinoa for any recipe that uses rice or pasta for a healtheir meal.
2. Blueberries
This sweet fruit is one of the best foods for you. Blueberries are a good source of fiber as well as antioxidants. The antioxidants contained in blueberries have been linked to better heart health, reducing cholesterol levels and preventing certain kinds of cancer.
1. Broccoli
Broccoli is considered to be the most nutritious vegetable. Broccoli contains vitamins A and C, folic acid, fiber and calcium. It has been linked to cancer prevention, reduction in the risk of heart disease and helps control blood pressure. Broccoli is also a great source of fiber which helps regulate the digestive system so it can can more efficiently remove toxins and impurities from the body.