8 Healthy Foods That Taste Better Than Your Favorite Junk Foods

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We all know that consuming too much junk food is bad for us, but, many of us still cannot shake the habit.

So, while you reduce on your junk food consumption, try including all of these 7 healthy foods for healthy alternatives to your favorite junk foods.

1. Apples

One of the best features of apples is that there are so many varieties to choose from. Therefore, you will never get tired of eating the same kind.

If you want a super tasty snack, try to slice some apples on a mandolin, then sprinkle 1 side with cinnamon. Afterwards, bake for 2 hours in a 200 degree F oven, flipping halfway.

2. Almonds

Almonds are an great source of antioxidants, healthy fats, high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals that can help in boosting your health, and even help with weight control.

The skin is one of the healthiest component of almonds. This is because the skin is rich in antioxidants that includes flavonoids, phenols, and phenolic acids, which are typically linked with fruits and vegetables.

A study that was published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry reported that a 1 ounce serving of almonds has a similar amount of total polyphenols as that of 1 cup green tea or steamed broccoli.

Remember not to overeat almonds, as these nuts are high in protein with nearly 1 gram per almond. Most Americans eat about 3-5 times more protein than needed, leading to elevated blood sugar, kidney stress, weight gain, stimulation of cancer cells and leaching of bone minerals.

3. Blueberries

Berries such as blueberries are one of the healthiest fruits you can consume. These fruits are relatively low in sugar, while also being high in fiber and heart-healthy antioxidants.

In a study, women who consumed the equivalent of 1 cup of blueberries daily reduced their blood pressure after 8 weeks. Also, the women had higher levels of nitric oxide, which dilates your blood vessels, therefore, reducing your blood pressure.

4. Cheese

Cheese is highly nutritious as well as rich in various vitamins and minerals including vitamin B12, calcium, selenium, phosphorus, and zinc.

Cheese and other dairy products are associated with an improved bone health, and are valuable in battling against osteoporosis, which is a disease that characterized by an increased risk of fractures and bone loss.

There are various types of cheese, but all of them consist mainly of fat and protein. Most varieties are relatively high in calories.

Cheese is high in protein, which can help in promoting lower blood pressure and an increased absorption of minerals.

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Also, it contains a fatty acid known as CLA, which is linked to various health benefits, and may help in promoting weight loss in overweight people.

5. Dark Chocolate

Studies have reported that dark chocolate is very healthy, and may reduce your risk of several diseases.

Dark chocolate is filled with antioxidants, fiber, as well as minerals including magnesium, iron, manganese and copper.
Plant compounds present in dark chocolate have been reported to protect against heart disease, lower blood pressure, protect the skin against the sun’s harmful UV-rays and improve brain function.

To get the most of dark chocolate’s health benefits, eat the ones with a cocoa content of 70–85% or higher.

6. Mangoes

Mangoes are a tropical fruit that contain a wide range of antioxidants, soluble fiber, high amounts of vitamin A (from beta-carotene) and vitamin C.

They are relatively low in calories and contains glycemic index values that range from low to medium, meaning they should not cause major spikes in your blood sugar levels.

Mangoes are loaded in antioxidants and plant compounds, and may contribute to a reduced risk of oxidative damage and chronic diseases, including cancers.

Fresh mangoes are very healthy and delicious, that is why many people like to add them into breakfast porridges.

7. Strawberries

Strawberries are one of the most popular berries around the world. These fruits are sweet, low calorie, and filled with antioxidants to fight cancer.

Strawberries get their red color from anthocyanins, similiar to blueberries. Also, just 1 serving of strawberries or about 8 berries provides more vitamin C than orange.

Most importantly, they are fat, sodium, and cholesterol free, and contains lots of fiber.

8. Popcorn

Popcorn is actually a whole grain. It is relatively low in calories, and also has high amounts of fiber.

Whole grains may have many health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and improved digestion.

Also, whole grains may be useful for weight loss, and weight maintenance.

Just avoid the unhealthy popcorn varieties that are loaded with refined oils.

Popcorn that you prepare yourself in a pan or air-popped popcorn are the healthiest options. Also, you can try adding some butter, salt, cinnamon or dark chocolate sprinkles for a different flavor.

Sources:
Healthline
Mercola

Related Articles:
1. The Easy Way to Make Healthy Food Taste Better
2. Quick and Healthy Foods You Can Make on a Rice Cooker
3. 7 Healthy Foods That Prevent Body Odor

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