5 Essential Foods Healthy People Eat

Tired of falling off track with your healthy eating plans?

Not sure how you can stay healthy and eat the foods that will keep you energized?

Here’s a place to start, with these 5 essential foods that healthy people eat: 

Leafy Greens

Packed with magnesium and B vitamins, an exceptional source of fibre, iron and protein, leafy greens are a winner when it comes to getting a maximized dose of nutrients. They are a rich source of antioxidants and polyphenols and are far more versatile than you may realize. Not only can you use them for a salad, but you can put them in smoothies for a nutrient boost, add them to stir fries or even put them in sauces and soups. Be sure to try different varieties of greens, including spinach, kale, watercress, rocket and mustard greens to get a variety of nutrients.

Sweet potato

A complex carbohydrate, there are more than a few reasons to love sweet potatoes - and definitely more than a few ways to eat them. Loaded with magnesium to help reduce stress and improve sleep, these bright orange vegetables are a great source of antioxidants and vitamin A, good for your eyes and packed with fiber. This combination of nutrients and their staying power make them a great way to fill you up and let you feel satiated and satisfied.

Walnuts

While most natural nuts and seeds are good, including pumpkin seeds, Brazil nuts and almonds, walnuts get a special mention because of their health benefits for the brain. The brain is largely made of fat and we need to regularly replenish it with the right kinds of fat to keep it healthy and functioning. This is important for focus, concentration and cognitive function while aging.

Blueberries

Berries are a great fruit choice because they are lower in sugar than many other fruits and have an impressive nutrient boost behind them. Blueberries for example are high in folate, a B vitamin that is essential for DNA synthesis and they are one of the best sources of antioxidants. Antioxidants are crucial for helping to prevent cancer, for reducing heart disease and much more.

Broccoli

Calcium, antioxidants, B vitamins, fiber and Vitamin A, there is a reason your mom told you to eat your broccoli. This hearty vegetable is a great addition to your diet and you can eat it raw or cooked. Steam it and sprinkle with lemon and salt, or roast in the oven for 15 minutes. One of the best things about broccoli is how quickly it cooks and how easy it is to prepare, in the end, making it healthy, practical and convenient to add to your everyday food menu.

With a few simple additions to your pantry and some consistent effort in your shopping at the grocery store, it is easy to both stay healthy and find foods you like. Keep these 5 foods that healthy people eat on hand to make sure you reach your health goals.