If you’re looking for the healthiest food on the planet, you may be surprised to learn that there isn’t just one “superfood” that stands out above the rest. Instead, there are many foods that can provide your body with essential nutrients for good health.
That said, some foods are more nutrient-dense than others and offer a wide variety of health benefits. Here are 10 of the healthiest foods you can eat, based on science:
1. Salmon
Salmon is an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D. It’s also low in mercury and other contaminants. Salmon is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer (1Trusted Source).
2. Blueberries
Blueberries are loaded with antioxidants and phytonutrients that can help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer (2Trusted Source). They’re also a good source of fiber and vitamins C and K.
Fish
There are many different types of fish to choose from, so you can easily find one that you like. Some of the most popular fish include salmon, tuna, halibut, and cod. Each type of fish has its own unique flavor and texture, so you can experiment until you find your favorite.
Eating fish regularly has been shown to have numerous health benefits. Studies have shown that people who eat fish on a regular basis are less likely to suffer from heart disease, stroke, and various types of cancer. Fish is also a good source of brain-boosting nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, which can help improve cognitive function and memory.
So if you’re looking for a healthy food that tastes great and offers plenty of health benefits, look no further than fish!
Broccoli or any of the cruciferous vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables are a class of nutrient-dense foods that include broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower. These veggies are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and they have been linked to a variety of health benefits.
For example, cruciferous vegetables are a rich source of vitamins C and K. They also contain folate (a B vitamin important for pregnant women) and other B vitamins like thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid. In addition to these essential nutrients, cruciferous vegetables are also excellent sources of minerals like potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and iron.
What’s more is that cruciferous veggies are high in fiber, which is beneficial for gut health and digestion. Fiber can also help you feel fuller after eating meals, which may lead to weight loss or weight maintenance over time. Additionally, the antioxidants present in these veggies can protect your cells against damage caused by free radicals. This damage has been linked to chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and diabetes.
Eating plenty of cruciferous vegetables is a great way to boost your nutrient intake while simultaneously protecting your health. So next time you’re at the grocery store or farmer’s market, stock up on these nutrient-rich powerhouses!
Beets
Health Benefits of Beets
Beets are a nutritious root vegetable that offer many health benefits. Here are some of the top ways that beets can improve your health:
1. Beets Are High in Nutrients: Beets are an excellent source of many vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, iron, folate (vitamin B9), and vitamins A, C and E. They also contain small amounts of calcium, phosphorus and sodium. Just one cup (136 grams) of cooked beets provides approximately: -Calories: 104 -Carbs: 21 grams -Fiber: 3 grams
Protein: 2 grams
Fat: 0 grams
Vitamin C: 10% of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI)
Vitamin B9 (folate): 20% of the RDI
Manganese: 16%.
Kale
Health Benefits of Kale
1. Kale Is an Excellent Source of Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in many bodily functions including immunity, collagen production and antioxidant activity. While you can find vitamin C in many fruits and vegetables, kale is an especially rich source providing over 200% of the Daily Value (DV) in just one cup (67 grams) .
What’s more, research shows that kale’s vitamin C content may be even higher than previously thought. This is due to its high levels of glucosinolates – plant compounds that are converted into other compounds like sulfo rapha ne when kale is chopped or chewed . Sulforaphane has been shown to increase blood levels of vitamin C by up to 30 times for several hours after it’s consumed .
Peanut butter
Peanut butter is a good source of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles, bones, skin, and other tissues. It also helps your body make enzymes and hormones. Protein is an important part of a healthy diet, and peanut butter can help you meet your protein needs.
Peanut butter is also a good source of fiber. Fiber helps keep your digestive system healthy by promoting regularity and preventing constipation. Fiber also helps reduce cholesterol levels and keeps blood sugar levels in check. If you’re looking for a high-fiber food that’s also delicious, look no further than peanut butter!
In addition to protein and fiber, peanut butter contains several other important nutrients. Peanut butter is a good source of vitamins E and B6, as well as magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, and niacin. These nutrients are all essential for maintaining good health.
Almonds
Almonds are an excellent source of vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage. They also contain magnesium, potassium, and calcium. Plus, almonds are a good source of protein and fiber.
There are many different ways to enjoy almonds. They can be enjoyed raw, roasted, or as an ingredient in other foods such as almond butter or almond milk.
Almonds have been shown to provide numerous health benefits.
Mangos
Mangos are a rich source of vitamins A and C. Vitamin A is important for vision, skin health, and immune function. Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that helps protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Mangos also contain other vitamins and minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and copper.
The antioxidants in mangos have been shown to protect against various diseases including cancer. One study showed that extracts from mangoes were able to kill cancer cells without harming healthy cells . Mangos also contain fiber which is important for gut health and digestion.
Mangos have a variety of uses beyond just being eaten fresh. They can be used in recipes such as smoothies, pies, salsa, or grilled chicken dishes. You can even use them as a natural sweetener in place of sugar or honey. Overall, mangos are a delicious and healthy fruit that should be included in your diet!