Friday, May 25, 2007

The 15 Healthiest Foods To Eat

Instead of thinking about all the foods you shouldn't eat, focus on the ones you should! Here's a list of the 15 healthiest foods you should be working into your weekly meal plan:

Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids which are great for your heart. Fish oil can also help aching and arthritic joints.

Oatmeal is a great source of soluble fiber, which can help control blood sugar and lower cholesterol.

Nuts are full of antioxidants, fiber, magnesium, vitamin E, potassium, and zinc, and are a good source of healthy fat and a filling, but healthy, snack. They can help lower your risk of cancer and heart disease and protect against type 2 diabetes.

Pinto beans have 14 grams of protein and fiber per cup, and are also rich in folic acid, which is great for your heart.

Cauliflower has vitamin C and B, folic acid, fiber, potassium, manganese, and magnesium, and can decrease the risk of cancer.

Spinach helps keep your body strong and is rich in nutrients. Not too keen on the taste? Try it with olive oil and garlic.

Red grapes are rich in flavonoids, which are antioxidants and fight inflammation, heart disease, and cancer.

Sweet potatoes are packed with beta-carotene, an antioxidant that helps boost your immune system. Vitamin A can also help with eye and skin health.

Blueberries have tons of antioxidants that can help ward off many chronic illnesses, help with infection, and protect against brain damage after a stroke.

Strawberries discourage the development of growth in cancer cells and might even help with their self-destruction. They also lower your risk of getting blood clots.

Soy is a great cancer-fighter and can lower bad cholesterol levels.

Tomatoes have lots of lycopene, an antioxidant that protects against heart disease, osteoporosis, Alzheimer's, and many types of cancers.

Garlic can reduce cholesterol levels and may lower blood pressure and help inhibit dangerous clotting.

Flax is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. You can purchase them as seeds or flour and incorporate them into many foods like smoothies, yogurt, and cereal.

Sesame seeds have copper, magnesium, zinc, fiber, and protein in them. Eating just a tablespoon a day can lower your cholesterol!

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