Top Ten Healthiest Foods!

Below you will find a list of the top ten healthiest foods I think we should all be eating. Why? Because making lists is fun and I have done a lot of research on the most nutrient dense foods I can get my hands on! Eating healthy is not just about low-fat, low-calorie or low-carb foods. What is more important is eating the most nutrient dense foods that taste the best. These are the foods that help your body work at it's best and give you the most bang for your food buck!


1.) Dark Leafy Greens - Spinach, collards, kale, etc. These are the healthiest foods you can eat! They contain so many antioxidant vitamins such as C, E and K. They also contain phytonutrients and a healthy dose of calcium and potassium. Research suggests they help prevent several forms of cancer. Here is an easy recipe for sauteed spinach. This would go well under fish or chicken or as a side with other foods.
2.) Salmon - This delicious fish is one of the best sources of the very critical omega 3 fatty acids.These are essential for healthy heart and brain function. It is also a very lean source of protein. We cook it at least once a week and I like to steam it in a bamboo steamer with lemon, fresh garlic and sometimes dill.
3.) Nuts - nuts contain good fats and have been proven to reduce your risk of heart disease.They are also protein packed and make a great afternoon snack or a delicious topping for fish or chicken.
4.) Quinoa - This ancient grain is a powerhouse of nutrients! It is similar in shape and texture to rice and contains all 8 amino acids! It is also an excellent source of protein, iron, manganese and fiber. I like to mix it with salsa and serve it with my Mexican inspired meals.
5.) Sweet potatoes - potatoes have a bad rap because of the low carb craze. However, sweet potatos are very nutrient dense (especially vitamin A) and should be eaten on a regular basis. I like to make baked french fries with them.
6.) Citrus Fruits- Lemon, limes and oranges offer a variety of benefits. They are very good for detoxification and are high in vitamin C. They are also believed to have cancer preventing policies. I like to squeeze them over fish, salads, chicken and vegetables for a lot low-calorie flavor.
7.) Berries - They are packed with vitamin C, fiber and other antioxidants. They are known to prevent cancer cell growth, heart disease and high cholesterol. We mix them into smoothies every morning before work. You can also create amazing desserts, salads and purees.
8.) Beans (& lentils) - Beans are an excellent meat substitute and are a great source of protein and fiber. They will definitely keep you full and are low in fat and calories. There are a million things you can do them from soups, to burgers to burritos.
9.) Artichokes - these amazing little vegetables contain antioxidants to prevent skin cancer and fiber to help reduce cholesterol. They are also great for detoxifying your body and they only contain about 60 calories! My favorite way to eat them is on a homemade pizza or in a Mediterranean pasta.
10.) Garlic - I LOVE garlic. It contains a sulfur compound that will control bad cholesterol, it can lower blood pressure and it is believed to have immune boosting properties. Invest in a garlic press and put fresh garlic on anything!

Obviously, you can't change your entire diet overnight and you don't want to give up all those wonderfully delicious foods that have no nutritional content!! However, if you are interested in feeling better, looking better, preventing future health issues and be healthier in general, I would suggest incorporating these foods into your diet. All of them can be amazingly delicious and will give you many of the nutrients your body needs to operate at its most efficient level!

Happy Eating!