What are healthy foods, and what is healthy eating?
It is true, that living in KL, street food is aplenty and the temptation is just too great sometimes. But I always believe that cheat days are fine, so long as you payback with healthy living and eating too.
So what are healthy foods? They are normally good or excellent source of fiber, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. They are high in phytonutrients and antioxidant compounds, such as vitamins A and E and beta carotene. The may help reduce risk of heart disease and other health conditions. They are low in calorie density, meaning you get a larger portion size with a fewer number of calories. Here are 10 great examples which you should eat as regularly as you can.
1. Salmon
Salmon contains omega-3 fatty acids — a type of fat that makes your blood less likely to form clots that may cause heart attacks. Omega-3s may also protect against irregular heartbeats that may cause sudden cardiac death, and they help decrease triglyceride levels, decrease the growth of artery-clogging plaques, lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke. In addition to containing omega-3s, salmon is low in saturated fat and cholesterol and is a good source of protein.
2. Almonds
These are high in fiber, riboflavin, magnesium, iron and calcium. In fact, one serving (about seven almonds) has more calcium than any other type of nut — 22 milligrams. One serving also provides almost 15 percent of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of vitamin E. And they’re good for your heart. Most of the fat in almonds is monounsaturated fat — a healthier type of fat that may help lower blood cholesterol levels.
3. Lemons
Just one lemon has more than 100 percent of your daily intake of vitamin C, which may help increase “good” HDL cholesterol levels and strengthen bones. Citrus flavonoids found in lemons may help inhibit the growth of cancer cells and act as an anti-inflammatory.
4. Apples
Apples are a good source of soluble fiber, which can lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels. Fresh apples are also a good source of vitamin C — an antioxidant that protects your body’s cells from damage. Vitamin C also helps form the connective tissue collagen, keeps your capillaries and other blood vessels healthy, and aids in the absorption of iron.
5. Blueberries
Scientists have shown that blueberries are loaded with compounds (phytonutrients) that may help prevent chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes and some cancers. Blueberries may also improve short-term memory and promote healthy aging. Blueberries are a low-calorie source of fiber and vitamin C.
6. Broccoli
One medium stalk of broccoli contains more than 100 percent of your daily vitamin K requirement and almost 200 percent of your recommended daily dose of vitamin C two essential bone-building nutrients. It is also an excellent source of vitamin A and is linked to preserving eye health, The same serving also helps stave off numerous cancers.
7. Spinach
Spinach is high in vitamins A and C and folate. It’s also a good source of magnesium. The plant compounds in spinach may boost your immune system. The carotenoids found in spinach — beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin — also are protective against age-related vision diseases, such as macular degeneration and night blindness, as well as heart disease and certain cancers.
8. Sweet potatoes
The deep orange-yellow color of sweet potatoes tells you that they’re high in the antioxidant beta carotene. Food sources of beta carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in your body, may help slow the aging process and reduce the risk of some cancers. In addition to being an excellent source of vitamins A and C, sweet potatoes are a good source of fiber, vitamin B-6 and potassium. And like all vegetables, they’re fat-free and relatively low in calories — one-half of a large sweet potato has just 81 calories.
9. Red beans
Red beans — including small red beans and dark red kidney beans — are a good source of iron, phosphorus and potassium. They’re also an excellent low-fat source of protein and dietary fiber. Red beans also contain phytonutrients. Don’t like red beans? Substitute another kind to enjoy beans’ health benefits.
10. Wheat germ
Wheat germ is the part of the grain that’s responsible for the development and growth of the new plant sprout. Although only a small part, the germ contains many nutrients. It’s an excellent source of thiamin and a good source of folate, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc. The germ also contains protein, fiber and some fat. Try sprinkling some on your hot or cold cereal.
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