The most nutritious foods are ones that provide your body with the greatest amount of nutrients for the number of calories it carries. Nutrients are necessary for people to consume because they provide the body with what they need to maintain function and continue growth and development. There are an extensive number of nutritious foods available, but some choices are better than others.
Vegetables
A diet rich in vegetables has been shown to promote a healthy body weight, lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease and improve digestive function. They are typically rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for eye and skin health. Some green vegetables offer B vitamins, instrumental in the digestive process. According to The World's Healthiest Foods, the top vegetables include broccoli, sea vegetables and spinach. Most nutritious is kale, which provides calcium, folic acid, potassium and vitamin B6 and is considered a super food.
Fruits
Fruits typically carry a healthy amount of fiber, which is essential in maintaining digestive regularity and lowering risk of cancer. They also provide vitamin C, calcium, folic acid and beta carotene. Top nutritious fruits include avocados, oranges, and the variety of berries. Berries are considered to be the top fruit choice for digestive health and according to The World's Healthiest Foods, provides 35 percent of your daily requirements in fiber.
Whole Grains
Whole grains assist in maintaining a healthy weight and in lowering the risk of obesity-related conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease. They are the most easily digested type of carbohydrate, significantly easier on the body than processed carbohydrates such as white bread. They provide the body with energy to function throughout the day. Quinoa is considered to be one of the best whole grain foods, as it is a great source in protein, iron, zinc, vitamin E, fiber and antioxidants. Other top whole grain choices are oats, buckwheat and millet.
Meats
Meat provides the body with protein, but it's important to choose the most nutritious and lowest fat meat. According to Harvard School of Public Health, a 6-ounce steak provides 38 grams of protein, but also comes with 44 grams of fat. The most nutritious choices of meats provide protein, but are also low in fat. Top meat choices include salmon and chicken breasts. Both provide plenty of protein, but are very low in saturated fat. Salmon is considered a super food because it has a substantial amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which maintain heart health.
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