By: Laura Peill – (Check out her blog Chronicles of Passion & Facebook)
With constant new research being done and released on foods and their health benefits, sometimes it’s hard too keep track. More than that, sometimes it’s hard to know which foods to be adding into your diet. If you’re eating a variety of fruits and vegetables and regularly trying new, seasonal produce, you’re probably doing pretty well at getting lots of nutrients and all your vitamins and minerals. But sometimes, it’s nice to have a little reminder.
Here are 7 foods you may be forgetting to eat that pack a health punch too good to miss!
Sesame Seeds – These tiny little seeds are calcium powerhouses. Perfect for vegans and vegetarians who may not get lots of calcium from milk and animal sources, start adding these to your diet to up your intake. Sprinkle them on salads and stir-fries, throw them in your smoothie, or better yet, make them into tahini!
Pumpkin Seeds – When it comes to vitamins and minerals, pumpkin seeds sure pack a punch. They are a source of iron, zinc, selenium and fiber, not to mention loaded with healthy fats and a good source of protein. They are perfect to add on salads and soups, turn into butter or eat raw straight out of the package. And they sure are delicious turned into pesto!
Sauerkraut – Fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi and kombucha help keep our “good” gut bacteria in check. This is important to fight any parasites and unwanted bacteria that find their way into our stomach. Get your hands on some sauerkraut - or purchase a cabbage to make your own – and your stomach will be a flourishing home for all the good gut bacteria!
Broccoli – So maybe you aren’t forgetting this vegetable, but you probably aren’t eating it often enough, given its wide array of health benefits. Broccoli is high in calcium and vitamin K, is a source of fiber. It is also part of the cruciferous vegetable family, vegetables which are known especially for their anti cancer properties. Add some to your diet today starting with these Cheezy Broccoli Lentil Bowls!
Watercress – Move over kale, watercress is the new guy in town! Not only does it have a high water content (you guessed it), but it is also one of the best greens, boosting a huge array of vitamins and minerals, fiber and a source of iron. It is also a significant source of Omega-3 fatty acids, and is an antioxidant. No wonder it’s such a power veg!
Oranges – Forget about the Gatorade or after workout recovery drinks. Not only do they often just translate into a lot of sugar, but unless you are burning significant calories, you don’t need them. Instead, munch on an orange and you’ll get a dose of vitamin C, as well as refill your electrolytes. Better yet, turn them into a delicious bread to have for snack!
Red Cabbage – You’ve heard about fermented cabbage, but you’d do well to add red cabbage to your diet as well. It’s high in antioxidants and fiber and is a great detoxing food for your body, and it tastes great both cooked and raw. You can shred it into salads, make it into a healthy slaw, or cook it with some beets and balsamic vinegar for a delightful dinner option!
