16 | HUNTSVILLE LIVING | FERUARY 2024
Boost your diet with these powerhouse foods
A nutritious diet is a key component of a healthy lifestyle . That ’ s an important thing to remember for people looking to turn over a healthier leaf and accomplish their long-term wellness goals .
Avoiding certain ingredients , like saturated fats and added sugars , and choosing foods known for their nutritional benefits is one way individuals can utilize diet to live healthier .
Although such foods cannot entirely eliminate risk for certain diseases or make a person invincible , eating more of them certainly can benefit individuals ’ overall health . - Kale : Kale long has had a place on healthy eating lists . Kale is a good source of vitamins A , C and K , and also contains alpha-linolenic acid , which is an omega-3 fatty acid . According to Britannica , studies show kale can help combat heart disease and cancer , and also boost eye health by reducing risk for cataracts and macular degeneration . Kale is not the only dark , leafy green vegetable that has earned superstar status . Swiss chard , spinach , collard greens , and turnip greens are equally beneficial . - Berries : There is strong antioxidant capacity associated with berries that helps reduce the risk of heart disease and other inflammatory conditions , says Healthline . That ’ s why blueberries , strawberries , blackberries , raspberries , and cranberries are so revered by nutritionists . They ’ re also great sources of fiber , vitamins and minerals . - Honey : This natural sweetener is a powerful ally to animals and insects . Honey is one of the most appreciated and valued natural products , according to the study ‘ Honey and Health : A Review of Recent Clinical Research ,’ published in 2017 . Since ancient times , honey has
been used therapeutically due to its antioxidant , antimicrobial , anti-inflammatory , and antiproliferative effects . - Walnuts : Studies have found that those with higher nut consumption have improved cardiovascular risk factors and lower rates of cardiovascular disease . Nuts are an important part of the Mediterranean diet , which has been found to be heart healthy as well , according to Harvard Health . Walnuts are a particularly good choice for lowering LDL cholesterol , triglycerides and apoprotein B ( a protein linked to cardiovascular disease ). - Legumes : Legumes , also known as pulses , include beans , lentils , peas , peanuts , and alfalfa . Legumes are full of nutrients , like minerals , protein , fiber , and B vitamins . Healthline notes legumes also improve feelings of fullness , which may help people eat less at each meal . - Teff : Not too many people have heard of teff , which is a very small grain that is a dietary staple in parts of eastern Africa . Teff is high in the nutrients iron , magnesium , zinc , calcium , and vitamin C . Teff also contains ample protein and fiber . Teff also is gluten-free , so it can be ground and used in place of other flours in cooking , says Britannica . - Kefir : Fermented foods and beverages have garnered increased attention recently because of their effect on helping maintain gut health . Kefir is loaded with vitamins , minerals and nutrients , says the Cleveland Clinic . It is a fermented milk that boasts higher concentrations of probiotics than some other fermented foods , like yogurt . Kefir has approximately 12 active probiotic strains . These nutrient-rich foods can make great additions to health-conscious individuals ’ diets . TF243774
16 | HUNTSVILLE LIVING | FERUARY 2024