Mia
The key to a healthy lifestyle is being proactive. From taking exercise seriously, to reducing alcohol, to eating healthy. While this might seem unappealing, the key to getting the best is creativity and variety.
Have you been struggling with your weight of late? Or trying to get healthier? There are many healthy foods to consider on your next shopping trip.
Turmeric
Turmeric’s most active ingredient is curcumin. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help relieve chronic pain. Research also shows that turmeric was as effective as Ibuprofen as a treatment for osteoarthritis.
Chronic or long inflammation causes heart disease, cancer, and other terminal diseases. Curcumin inhibits the molecule responsible for triggering the inflammation gene. It protects the body from free radicals and increases the antioxidant enzymes in the body.
Research also shows that curcumin improves the level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), the growth hormone responsible for neuron development. It also slows down brain aging and sometimes reverses the process. This makes it a viable option to prevent Alzheimer’s Disease.
However, for a better result as an anti-inflammatory, 400–600 mg is recommended. Turmeric is difficult to get in this quantity, hence the need for a turmeric supplement. This vitamin could be in capsules, fluids, or gummies. Turmeric gummies can also contain ginger, which improves joint support.
Honey
Most people use honey as a sweetener, but there is more to it than replacing refined sugar. There are two types of honey: raw and pasteurized. Honey is an excellent antioxidant. It has plant chemicals that have as many antioxidants as fruits and vegetables.
Honey contains hydrogen peroxide, an antiseptic that kills bacteria and fungus. It improves tissue regeneration, making it a superb choice for treating wounds. Research shows that honey reduces cough symptoms and improves sleep.
Oats
Oats is a healthy grain because it is gluten-free. Gluten is a protein with no nutrients and increases inflammation. Oats are also rich in fiber, which digests slowly and is very filling. Of all the varieties, oat groat is the most nutritious.
Oats are richer in carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, protein, and fat than other grains. They are also rich in avenanthramides, an antioxidant predominantly found in oats. Oats also contain beta-glucan, a fiber that helps reduce cholesterol levels and blood sugar. Because of its filling nature, it will help reduce calorie intake, which causes weight gain.
Iced Tea (Without the Sugar)
It is important to state that tea sweetened with sugar is harmful and barely nutritious. It is best to avoid artificial or processed tea. It is filled with calories and carbohydrates. Instead, the recommended option should be natural teas.
In place of sugar, you can enjoy iced tea with honey or lemon. You can also enjoy it hot during winter. There are various types of tea, white, green, black, and herbal tea.
White tea is rich in antioxidants, making it vital in the prevention of cancer. It also contains fluoride, catechins, and tannins, which strengthen the teeth. Want to avoid caffeine? White tea is your best bet.
Herbal teas include peppermint, ginger, chamomile, ginger, hibiscus, and more. Herbal tea reduces pain, muscle spasms, improves blood pressure, and good cholesterol. Green tea has anti-inflammatory properties and reduces the risk of cancer. Black tea improves the immune system, contains caffeine, and is a good energy booster. However, take it moderately.
Greek Yogurt
The difference between Greek yogurt and other types is the straining process. Through this process, the lactose found in it is removed. It is rich in protein, calcium, probiotics, iodine, and vitamin B12.
Calcium improves bone health and reduces the risk of osteoarthritis. Its rich protein content makes it a satisfying meal, which leaves people fuller. It is also a great option for vegetarians to gain protein. Greek yogurt contains probiotics that help balance the bacteria in the gut and reduces stress.
The probiotics in Greek yogurt also help reduce blood pressure. For a more healthy lifestyle, swap butter and sour cream for Greek yogurt in your meals. You can also make your own parfaits at home with your favorite fruit and granola.
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is one of the most used spreads in the world. It’s an excellent choice to increase your protein, vitamin, and mineral intake. When buying, avoid those with extra ingredients such as sugar and trans fat. Its main ingredient should be peanuts and maybe a bit of salt.
It is an excellent source of carbohydrates, fat, and protein. It contains about 25 percent of protein, making it a good plant source of protein. It is also rich in healthy fats, oleic and linoleic acids, which are excellent sources of olive oil and omega-6.
Healthy Doesn’t Mean Boring
Eating healthy can be fun and interesting if done with creativity. Be sure to supplement where needed and exercise to get the full health benefits. Next time you go to the grocery store, make a few simple swaps to walk out with a healthier cart in the end.
