4. Mushrooms
Mushrooms come packed with vitamin D that boosts your metabolism and bone health. Mushrooms contain high amounts of ergothioneine and glutathione. These antioxidants can help fight negative effects of aging.
When shopping for mushrooms, be sure to avoid canned mushrooms. These may contain added sodium which mushrooms naturally don’t have. Opt instead for fresh or dried mushrooms.
You must also avoid eating mushrooms raw. Mushrooms have thick cell walls that break down during the cooking process. Cooking allows you to reap more nutrients while avoiding carcinogenic compounds.
5. Broccoli Sprouts
Eating broccoli sprouts can help you generate a bioactive compound named sulforaphane. This compound promotes many health benefits and is good for your overall health. Sulforaphane can help battle cancer cells while reducing the risks of heart disease and diabetes.
Broccoli sprouts contain high amounts of dietary fiber which helps keep you full. One cup of broccoli sprouts can give you large amounts of vitamin C. Try growing broccoli sprouts at home and adding them to your salads!
6. Nuts
Nuts like pecans, almonds, and walnuts can help improve your cholesterol levels. These nuts can also help protect you from blood clots and help you avoid the risk of heart attacks. Avoid eating nuts with unnecessary salty or sugary coatings.
A half-cup of mixed nuts contains 13 grams of protein. Walnuts have high amounts of vitamin E. Almonds can help your body stabilize blood sugar levels. Cashews are also high in magnesium and Omega 3 fatty acids which help the brain.
7. Monk Fruit
Is this your first time hearing about monk fruit? In Eastern medicine, they consider monk fruit as a healing herb. Monk fruits are sweet fruits that are high in an antioxidant called mogrosides.
You can use monk fruit as a replacement for sugar. This helps you avoid sugar-related health problems like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Monk fruit extract is 100% natural so you can avoid the risks of artificial sweeteners. Monk fruit is also diabetic-friendly! Monk fruit extract contains 0 calories and 0 carbs so it doesn’t spike your blood sugar.