If you stay away from junk and processed foods, just about everything you eat could be considered ‘healthy’.
But a few foods are jam-packed with vitamins, minerals, enzymes and other nutrients. So much so that some of them are said to fight cancer, help you lose weight, reduce heart attack, improve your sex drive and – at least in one case – end of world hunger.
To help you decide for yourself, here’s our list of the seven healthiest foods in the world, in no particular order:
Kale
Kale has so many cancer-fighting anti-oxidants, it should wear a superhero’s cape. It also boosts your immune system, promotes healthy eyes and skin, and it increases red blood cell production. It’s also high in fibre and low in calories, both of which help manage your weight.
Broccoli
Having broccoli in your diet can improve your mood, which will get even better when you find out broccoli also slows the aging process. Like kale, broccoli is a cancer fighter and is a good source of fibre.
Freekeh
We’ve had a lot of fun with the name, but this super food is seriously good for you. It has more fibre, fewer calories and more protein than perennial superfood favourite, quinoa. And it helps fight diabetes with a low glycemic index.
Almonds
All nuts are a good source of protein, healthy fats and fibre. But the almond stands above the rest with the fewest calories and second highest level of protein. They are also high in vitamin E, fibre and potassium.
Chlorella
This form of algae is the food that people saw as a potential solution to the world hunger crisis of the late 1940s and early 1950s. Dried chlorella is 45% protein, 20% fat, 20% carbohydrates, 5% fibre and 10% minerals. It’s like a balanced diet in one plant.
Lentils
Used by vegetarians as a good source of the protein that others get from meat, lentils are also high in fibre, iron and folate. The bonus is that they are relatively inexpensive, commonly available and a versatile ingredient in dinner recipes.
Flaxseeds
Omega 3 fatty acids are touted for their positive effects against cancer, cardiovascular disease and inflammation. Flaxseeds are one of the best sources of omega 3 acids after fish and seafood.
To learn more about the best nutrition for you, your body type and weight loss goals, visit your nearby Herbal One centre and talk to a qualified nutrition specialist today.