Tired of eating the same old foods? Put a little excitement back into your diet with these 11 foods that nutritionist Jonny Bowden says are some of the healthiest foods on earth. You should have no problem finding these at the grocery store.
- Beets: These are a rich source of folate, and the natural pink pigment may help fight cancer. Instead of boiling these bulbous veggies, sprinkle raw grated beets on your salad.
- Cabbage: This veggie is full of sulforaphane, a chemical thought to boost cancer-fighting enzymes. Shred it and top it on your salads or sandwiches.
- Swiss chard: This leafy green veggie is great for protecting your eyes from aging. Add chopped swiss chard to stir frys, pasta dishes, or sauté on its own.
- Cinnamon: This spice may help to control blood sugar and cholesterol. So add a sprinkle on your cereal, yogurt, or coffee.
- Pomegranate juice: This beverage is loaded with antioxidants and studies show it can lower blood pressure. Drink on its own or use this juice to make mixed drinks (hey, I know you had the same idea).
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- Dried plums: This dried fruit contains antioxidants and fiber. If you're looking for them at the grocery store, they may be unappealingly called prunes instead. Chop them up and add the bits to your oatmeal, baked goods, or just snack on them raw.
- Pumpkin seeds: These little crunchy gems are loaded with the mineral magnesium, which is associated with a lower risk for early death. Look for trail mix and cereals that contain these seeds.
- Sardines: These are an easy source of omega-3s that are virtually mercury-free and chock full of calcium. Need more reasons? They are also great sources of iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper, and manganese, as well as B vitamins. Look for sardines stored in olive oil or sardine oil. Enjoy them on their own, in a sandwich, or on your salad.
- Turmeric: This tasty spice may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties so go ahead and add it to your favorite recipes for home fries, stir frys, casseroles, and rice dishes.
- Frozen blueberries: Of course fresh is best, but frozen blueberries are available all year long. They may help improve your memory, so pour them in the blender and make smoothies, top them on your cereal or salads, and add them to baked goods.
- Canned pumpkin: This veggie is low in calories, high in fiber, and loaded with vitamin A, which is great for your immune system. You can warm it up and add a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg to it, and it's a great alternative to the oh-so common side of mashed potatoes.