When you think of the word healthy, your mind might immediately jump to trendy superfoods such as kale, quinoa, and açai bowls. You probably wouldn't put peanut butter and wine into the superfood categories, but if that's the case, you would be missing out on some seriously delicious and nutritious options.
Somewhere along the line, the below five foods got mixed up and were branded with a bad reputation. But it may surprise you to discover that some of those foods people deem "bad," can actually help you fight off chronic disease and may even help you shed those extra pounds. So let's clarify a few things, shall we?
While drinking in excessive amounts is quite obviously an unhealthy habit, moderate alcohol consumption can actually reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. A moderate alcohol intake, which includes one drink for women per day and two for men, can also help to keep your brain sharp as you age.
A 2011 study found that moderate drinkers were 23 percent less likely to develop mental diseases, such as Alzheimer’s. And if that wasn’t reason enough to treat yourself to a glass of Pinot Noir tonight, red wine and dark beers are rich in antioxidants, which may just help you to prevent the common cold this winter.
Potatoes are often confused for a starchy ball of calories rather than the delicious superfood they really are. At just 110 calories a pop, potatoes deliver a feeling of fullness and satisfaction while providing you with a healthy hit of potassium, fiber, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins C and B.
Potatoes with the skin still on have the most health benefits to offer, so get the most out these fluffy nuggets by baking or roasting them with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
In addition to transforming you into a functional human being before you start your day, this delicious brew also contains the antioxidant superpower of flavonoids, which are an incredible weapon against the signs of premature aging such as wrinkles, sun spots, and that loss of elasticity we all dread.
Scientists have also found substantial links between the consumption of coffee and a significantly lower incidence of type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and heart failure, so drink up!
4. Peanut Butter
When you think of peanut butter, you don’t automatically jump to the word healthy. But it might surprise you to discover that nut spreads are actually a key component to weight management. While it’s true that peanut butter is considered to be high in fat, this amount falls into the heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated variety, which are indeed essential in the body’s everyday requirements.
The spread is also packed with protein and fiber — which keep you feeling fuller for longer — and therefore makes it an excellent snack.
Pro Tip: Look for nothing-but-nut options with no added salt for your healthiest choice, or better yet, blend up your own!
Forget egg white omelettes. In order to get the most out of these glorious little gems, you’re going to need to consume the whole thing — yolk and all!
Eggs are one of the richest natural sources of choline, an anti-inflammatory nutrient deemed essential for neurological function and the production of happy hormones serotonin and dopamine. And at just 70 calories each, eggs are a great source of protein, vitamins D and B, iron, and zinc.
This article was originally written by Katy Skelly. For more, check out our sister site, Now to Love.