Foods That Are Better Than Junk Foods
There is no need for healthy foods to be bland and tasteless. Some fun foods taste better than the most commonly eaten junk foods.
Strawberry
One cup (145 grams) of strawberries contains 3 grams of fiber and as few as 46 calories. The consumption of strawberries is associated with improved heart health, blood sugar control, and cancer prevention, and if you don’t like them plain, try dipping them in some melted dark chocolate.
SUMMARY:
Strawberries are low in calories and contain many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Blueberries
Blueberries are colorful, nutrient-rich, and sweet.
One cup (150 grams) of blueberries has only 84 calories but 4 grams fiber. It contains many vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C, K, and manganese.
Blueberries are an antioxidant superfood that may improve memory in older adults and protect against oxidative damage and chronic diseases.
They can be enjoyed either fresh or frozen and are incredibly delicious, mixed with either yogurt or full-fat cream.
SUMMARY
Blueberries are high in fiber and nutrients but low in calories.
Dark Chocolate
Researchers have found that dark chocolate may reduce your risk of several diseases. It's loaded with fiber and antioxidants, as well as minerals like iron, magnesium, copper, and manganese.
Plant compounds in dark chocolate have been shown to improve blood pressure and brain function and protect against heart disease and the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays.
To make the most of its health benefits, eat dark chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 70–85%.
A piece of dark chocolate is utterly delicious when enjoyed with a good cup of coffee.
SUMMARY
Dark chocolate is rich in fiber, antioxidants, and minerals.
Almonds
Almonds are the ultimate crunchy treat. They're rich in heart-healthy fats, are very nutritious, and require no preparation.
Almonds are packed with antioxidants and provide large amounts of fiber, protein, and several vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E, manganese, and magnesium.
They may reduce blood pressure, cholesterol, and the oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol — all of which are risk factors for heart disease.
They're also very filling despite being high in fat and calories. One study showed that almonds increased weight loss by 62% during a weight-loss diet.
Try putting two or three almonds inside a date for a delicious treat if you're craving something sweet.
Pistachios
A great source of heart-healthy fats and protein, they're also good sources of B vitamins, phosphorus, potassium, iron, and fiber; these crunchy, salty nuts make the perfect snack.
As a powerful antioxidant, pistachios have been linked to improved blood fats and reduced oxidized LDL (bad) cholesterol, inflammation, and blood sugar levels.
Pistachios are very filling and may aid weight maintenance when consumed in moderation.
However, eat only a few of these at a time as they are very high in calories. A single cup (125 grams) of pistachios can contain up to 700 calories.
Cherries
These deep red, beautiful berries are a delicious and healthy snack.
Cherries are low in calories but high in nutrients like fiber and vitamin C.
They also contain many antioxidants and plant compounds.
Cherries provide nutrients that may protect against conditions like cancer, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and Alzheimer's
