Nutritional Benefits
The term “health food” does not always have a positive connotation. Plenty of fruits and vegetables, along with many grains, are considered to be “health food” and so are somewhat shunned by people who do not consider themselves “health freaks”. Many of our everyday foods, however, are also considered to be health foods that have a great nutritional content, as well as being popular and delicious. These nutritional benefits can be anything from good vitamins to the positive benefits of the food, though all of the following foods are great for your health.
1. Apples
Practically everyone knows the old adage “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Apples may not have enough health benefits to stave off all doctors’ visits, but they do have a number of nutritional pluses. They are, of course, high in vitamin C and fiber, but some (unverified) studies suggest that eating apple seeds can actually help treat some heart problems and possibly contribute to cancer prevention. Furthermore, apples are a recommended snack for people who get hungry late at night. That’s because the average apple not only has health benefits that a quart of ice cream does not, but also has fiber which tends to make you feel full faster, cutting down on your disposition to eat more, high calorie snacks.
2. Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes have great nutritional value. The USDA suggests that Americans should eat more orange foods, meaning those that are high in beta carotene, giving our bodies vitamin A which may reduce aging and help prevent some cancers. They’re also extremely high in a number of other vitamins that have wonderful health benefits, such as potassium, folate, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and vitamin E. Moreover, unless you heap condiments on your sweet potatoes, they’re quite low in calories in comparison to their relative deliciousness, and of course fat free. All in all, they’re quite good for your health.
3. Salmon
Salmon is one of the more popular fish to consume in America, and with good reason given its nutritional value. Salmon is a good source of protein, of course, but is also exceptionally high in omega-3 fatty acids, which corresponds to a lesser risk of blood clots and heart attacks. Studies all suggest that salmon may reduce risks of stroke and blood pressure levels, all of which mean the nutritional value of salmon is great for your health.
4. Blueberries
Blueberries have great nutritional content. It’s commonly tossed around that blueberries are high in antioxidants, which is true, but blueberries also have a number of nutritional benefits. They also are high in phytonutrients which studies suggest prevent urinary tract infections, and which can improve short-term memory and healthy aging. Blueberries also have a lot of vitamin C, as well as good fiber content, all while being low in calories. These little fruits are obviously high in nutritional content, and high in delicious happiness.