10 Healthiest Foods

If you want to improve your diet quickly and easily, incorporating the 10 healthiest foods on a daily basis is a sure way to eat better. These foods are readily available in most areas, are low in calories, and are good sources of essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber.

Apples, for example, are an excellent source of soluble fiber to help lower bad cholesterol, and they are also a good source of vitamin C.

Almonds are a rich source of fiber and protein, as well as being a good source of iron, magnesium, and vitamin E. Choose raw or roasted almonds for the best benefits, and avoid heavily salted or sugared almonds that add bad components to your diet.

Blueberries are a rich source of fiber, vitamin C, and cell building antioxidants. Other berries such as blackberries, cranberries, and raspberries are also good choices. Fresh, raw berries can be added to frozen yogurt, cereal, and salads for a sweet touch.

Spinach is one of the 10 healthiest foods for your hair and skin. It is a superior source of iron, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A and C. Add spinach to healthy wraps, salads, or sandwiches for a healthy tang.

Dark red kidney beans are high in fiber, protein, copper, iron, phosphorus, magnesium, and numerous other vitamins and minerals. Add these beans to salads and soups for a delicious and healthy meal.

While it may be unpopular with children or vegetable-eschewing adults, broccoli is a great source of calcium, potassium, and vitamins A and C. For the biggest benefits from eating broccoli, lightly steam it and avoid heavy sauces and cheeses.

Yams are natural multivitamins that are high in vitamins A, B, C, and E. Furthermore, sweet potatoes are low in calories, especially if they are roasted or otherwise prepared without heavy doses of brown sugar, marshmallows, and other sweeteners.

Most types of fish and seafood are healthy diet options, but salmon is a particularly good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Furthermore, salmon is low in cholesterol and is tasty when prepared in healthy ways such as grilling or broiling.

Wheat germ is the inner core of a grain of wheat, and it is a nutritional powerhouse rich in niacin, thiamin, zinc, iron, fiber, and vitamin E. Add a sprinkle of wheat germ to salads, yogurt, or cereal, mix it with ground beef, or use it to thicken soups.

Soybeans are a healthy source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, calcium, and iron, and they are particularly popular in vegetarian diets. A versatile food, soybeans can be made into tofu, milk, or eaten as beans in a number of nutritious dishes.

Not only should you be aware of the 10 healthiest foods to add to your diet, but knowing the healthiest drinks is also vital. Skim or low fat milk is rich in vitamin D and calcium. If you are used to milk with a higher fat content, start diluting it with skim milk until you are accustomed to the lighter taste.

There is nothing better to drink for a healthy diet than fresh, pure water. Drinking at least eight glasses of water per day can help you wash down all your healthy meals and keep your body well hydrated for exercise.

For more healthy food ideas, check out:

• How Do You Prepare Tofu
• List of High Fiber Foods
• Eating a Healthy Diet: The Basics