The 10 Healthiest Foods,

 The 10 Healthiest Foods.

Finding healthy food that tastes good isn’t easy, but if you’re looking to eat healthier, these are the 10 healthiest foods you can eat. These are low in calories, saturated fat, and sodium while being rich in vitamins and minerals that help keep your body functioning properly. Whether you’re on a diet or just want to add more healthy foods to your diet, check out this list of the healthiest foods below.

10. Quinoa.

Whether you like it or not, quinoa is here to stay. It’s a great source of protein (more than any other grain) and has one of the highest contents of calcium and iron out there. Not to mention its strong nutty flavor that actually pairs nicely with salad greens. No wonder quinoa has been called a superfood—it truly is nutritious!

9. Watermelon.

This summertime favorite is packed with vitamins A and C, lycopene, potassium, and magnesium—and it contains fewer calories than many other fruits. Watermelon also has plenty of lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to a decreased risk of heart disease and cancer. However, it’s important to note that watermelon does contain sugar (it contains about 9 grams per cup) and should be eaten in moderation.

8. Spinach.

When it comes to nutrition, Popeye was right—spinach is definitely a superfood. Its rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants supports every aspect of health. Spinach is an ideal source of iron, which transports oxygen throughout your body to all its organs and tissues. Without enough iron, you can suffer from fatigue and become susceptible to infections and illness. Try substituting spinach for your less healthy leafy greens such as iceberg lettuce or romaine lettuce in a sandwich or wrap to give it a boost in nutrition.

7. Broccoli.

This cruciferous vegetable is a favorite among vegans and non-vegans alike. You can steam it, eat it raw in salads, or add it to soups and stir-frys for extra nutrients. Broccoli also contains glucoraphanin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties. Due to its high fiber content, broccoli can help prevent digestive disorders such as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome).

6. Kiwi.

Kiwi is a very rich source of vitamin C, it also contains plenty of fiber and potassium. A unique advantage of kiwi fruit is that they’re high in ellagic acid, which can help prevent cancer.

5. Tomato.

Lycopene, a compound found in tomatoes, is a powerful antioxidant that may protect against cancer and cardiovascular disease. Eating one cup of tomato sauce or pureed tomatoes counts as one serving. Choose whole-wheat pasta to make it even healthier!

4. Oyster Mushrooms.

The most nutritionally dense food on earth? Maybe. Oyster mushrooms are among a very few foods to score a perfect 100 in nutritional value. The shiitake mushroom, for example, is just a fraction behind, with 96 points. But oyster mushrooms outscore pretty much everything else when it comes to protein quality and bioavailability—meaning your body can actually use what you’re eating.

3. Salmon.

Salmon is a good source of protein, which supports your muscles. It’s also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can improve heart health and strengthen joints. Salmon is a great choice for your next meal, but make sure you buy wild salmon—the healthy farm-raised fish have been found to contain carcinogens and unhealthy fats. Here are some recipes with salmon that we love: Brown Sugar Salmon, Lemon Garlic Grilled Salmon, and Broiled Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon.

2. Chia Seeds.

According to recent research, chia seeds (yes, those same seeds you remember from your favorite pet store) are loaded with fiber and antioxidants, making them a superfood for weightless. They’re also packed with protein—4 grams per ounce. Plus, according to one study in Nutrition Journal, men who eat at least 30 grams of fiber per day are less likely to have an abdominal obesity problem.

1. Dark Chocolate.

Eating dark chocolate may sound like a guilty pleasure, but it’s actually just a smart choice. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and other compounds that have been shown to have positive effects on your health. Try dipping strawberries into dark chocolate for an extra treat, or using dark chocolate chips when baking. This heart-healthy treat will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but can also improve your heart health.