Supplements, powders, and vitamins are all the rage but are they worth the price and are they good for your health?
In light of the news regarding protein supplements (namely eating processed supplements can lead to overconsumption of certain food groups as well as the presence of trace chemicals in said supplements), eating nutrient-rich foods in their original form may be best. The article confirmed a long running belief that the least processed version of anything is often the best. There's simply less opportunity for the addition of harmful additives and greater freshness to keep the good stuff (like antioxidants and vitamins) intact.
A few healthy foods you can easily include in your daily diet in its natural form, include:
- Turmeric: This unassuming root tops our list. We can extol its benefits all day but simply put its a tonic for your tummy, heart, skin, and more. Buy the root fresh and grind it into smoothies, soups, stews or curries.
- Tea: Brew a pitcher of black, green, flower or herb tea at home. Mind the sugar and cream and you'll receive a health benefits such as lowered cholesterol with green tea or decreased inflammation with chamomile tea. If you can, choose the loose full leaves, you don't need the tea bags full of overly pulverized and less choice leaves. (Don't get us started on instant tea!)
- Nuts: A handful of nuts can help you live longer and healthier by reducing your chances of heart disease, respiratory disease, even cancer. They are the perfect late afternoon snack.
- Fish: Omega fatty acids are your friend. Favor wild and smaller fish such as sardines and anchovies to keep mercury consumption lower.
- Leafy Greens: Stay healthy during the colder months with a nice portion of leafy greens like kale, chard, spinach or arugula. Its nutrients help boost the immune system when you need it most.
Skip the processed, sugared, shelf stable versions of these foods or the vitamins/antioxidants you seek. Instead, shoot for the organic versions of these foods whenever possible. You're sure to feel the difference, body and mind.
Which healthy foods do you swear by?
(Image courtesy of Luke Michael)