Imagine a choice of foods that were tasty, nutritious and good for your health.
This article provides information on the top ten foods considered to be the most healthy, according to surveys and sources across North America and Western Europe.
1 - Apples
Apples are a great source of antioxidants, which fight free radicals. Free radicals are harmful substances generated in the body that cause unwanted changes and are involved in the aging process and some diseases.
2 - Almonds
Second on our list is almonds. Almonds are rich in nutrients, including magnesium, vitamin E, iron, calcium, fiber, and riboflavin.
A scientific review found that almonds as a food may help preserve healthy cholesterol levels.
3- Broccoli
Broccoli is rich in fiber, calcium, potassium, folate and phytonutrients.
Phytonutrients are compounds which reduce the risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and some cancers.
Broccoli also contains vitamin C, as well as beta-carotene, an antioxidant.
4- Blueberries
Blueberries are rich in fiber, antioxidants and phytonutrients. Phytonutrients may help prevent disease and keep the body working properly.
Examples of oily fish include salmon, trout, mackerel, herring, sardines and anchovies.
The lean fillets of these fishes contain up to 30% oil, specifically, omega-3 fatty acids. These oils are known to provide benefits for the heart, as well as the nervous system.
Oily fish are also known to provide benefits for patients with arthritis.
6 - Leafy green vegetables
Studies have shown that a high intake of dark-leafy vegetables, such as spinach or cabbage may significantly lower a person's risk of developing diabetes type 2.
Sweet potatoes are rich in dietary fiber, beta carotene, complex carbohydrates, vitamin C, vitamin B6, as well as carotene.
Wheat germ is high in several vital nutrients, such as vitamin E, folic acid (folate), thiamin, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, as well as fatty alcohols and essential fatty acids.
Wheat germ is also a good source of fiber.
Many people avoid avocados because of its high fat content; this is a myth. Approximately 75% of the calories in an avocado come from mostly monosaturated fat.
Avocados are also very rich in B vitamins, as well as vitamin K and vitamin E and have a very high fiber content of 25% soluble and 75% insoluble fiber.
Studies have shown that regular avocado consumption reduces blood cholesterol levels.
Oats is rich in complex carbohydrates, as well as water-soluble fiber, which slow digestion down and stabilize levels of blood-glucose.
Oatmeal is very rich in B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, folate, and potassium. Coarse or steel-cut oats contain more fiber than instant varieties.