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We all know we should be eating our greens but there’s more to healthy nutrition than just veggies. If you’re forgoing your favorite snack because you assume it’s bad for you, it might be time to think again. Many foods and drinks we assume are lacking in nutritional benefits are actually packed with vitamins and minerals. If you want to enjoy your favorite foods guilt-free, take a look at the health benefits they offer.
- Red Wine
If you enjoy a tipple at the end of a long week, you’re not alone. However, you no longer need to abstain for fear of ruining your healthy eating regime. When consumed in moderation, red wine can protect you from certain cancers and even reduce your risk of developing heart disease.
- Chocolate
Most people assume that chocolate is a no-go when you’re trying to eat clean. If a sweet tooth is your Achilles heel, you no longer have to worry about falling off the healthy eating wagon. A small amount of dark chocolate can lower your cholesterol and, therefore, reducing your risk of stroke and heart disease. In addition to this, dark chocolate is believed to help to prevent cognitive decline, so there’s more than one reason to enjoy it!
- Coffee
If your morning cup of Joe is the only thing that wakes you up, you’ll know just how tricky it can be to resist it. Fortunately, you don’t have to. Coffee contains a wide range of nutrients, including potassium, manganese, and riboflavin, and may even help to reduce your risk of diabetes. Steer clear of sugar-laden syrups and creamers and you’re free to enjoy your coffee fix.
- Oil
When you’re on a health kick, you’re probably being extra careful to avoid any sort of oil. While it’s true that some oils are loaded with harmful trans fats, others actually have positive health benefits. Extra virgin olive oil is well-known for its positive impact on the body, so if you want to incorporate oil into your diet, this is the one to use. By keeping blood vessels strong, it stops overly active oxygen molecules from causing damage and putting your body at risk.
- Honey
If you’re avoiding sugar, then honey probably isn’t for you. However, the medicinal benefits of this superfood can outweigh its sugar content for many people. Choose a raw, dark honey, rather than mass-produced artificial options, and you’ll find it’s packed with anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and even anti-viral properties.
Making Nutrition Work for You
A healthy diet is essential for your physical and mental wellbeing. With tons of different advice floating around, however, it can be difficult to determine what’s right for you. If in doubt, consult a qualified nutritionist, dietician or clinician. With expert advice, you can find a range of foods and drinks that nourish your body. It’s easy to adopt strict eating guidelines for a short period of time but finding a healthy and realistic balance will ensure you can enjoy your favorite foods and achieve your long-term goals.
Photo by Jeff Siepman on Unsplash