Eating healthy does NOT have to be boring.

There is a massive amount of foods out there that are both healthy and tasty.

Here are 50 incredibly healthy foods. Most of them are surprisingly delicious.

1-6: Fruits and Berries

Fruits and berries are among the world’s most popular health foods.

This is not surprising, given that they taste incredible. Fruits are also very easy to incorporate into the diet, because they require little to no preparation.

1. Apples

The apple is high in fiber, vitamin C and numerous antioxidants. Apples are very fulfilling, and perfect as snacks if you find yourself hungry between meals.

2. Avocados

Avocados are different than most fruits, because they are loaded with healthy fats instead of carbs. They are creamy, tasty and high in fiber, potassium and vitamin C.

3. Bananas

Bananas are among the world’s best sources of potassium. They are also high in vitamin B6 and fiber. Bananas are ridiculously convenient and portable.

4. Blueberries

Blueberries are not only delicious, but also among the most powerful sources of antioxidants in the world.

5. Oranges

Oranges are well known for their vitamin C content. They are also high in fiber, antioxidants and taste incredible.

6. Strawberries

Strawberries are highly nutritious, and are low in both carbs and calories.

They are loaded with vitamin C, fiber and manganese, and are arguably among the most delicious foods in existence.

Other Healthy Fruits

There are many other healthy fruits and berries that aren’t listed here.

Some examples: Cherries, grapes, grapefruit, kiwi, lemons, mango, melons, olives, peaches, pears, pineapples, plums and raspberries.

7. Eggs

Eggs are among the most nutritious foods on the planet.

They were previously demonized for being high in cholesterol, but new studies have shown that they are perfectly safe and healthy (1, 2).

8-10: Meats

It is a myth that meat is harmful. Unprocessed, gently cooked meat is one of the healthiest and most nutritious foods you can eat.

8. Lean Beef

Lean beef is among the best sources of protein in existence, and loaded with highly bioavailable iron. Choosing the fatty cuts is fine if you’re on a low carb diet.

9. Chicken Breasts

Chicken breast is low in fat and calories, but extremely high in protein. It is a great source of many nutrients. Again, feel free to eat fattier cuts of chicken if you’re not eating that many carbs.

10. Lamb

Lambs are usually grass-fed, and their meat tends to be high in Omega-3 fatty acids.

11-16: Nuts, Seeds and Peanuts

Despite being high in fat and calories, studies suggest that nuts and seeds can help you lose weight (3, 4).

These foods are crunchy, fulfilling and loaded with important nutrients that many people don’t get enough of, including magnesium and vitamin E.

They also require zero preparation, which is important because it makes it easier to incorporate them into the diet.

11. Almonds

The almond is a popular type of nut. It is loaded with vitamin E, antioxidants, magnesium and fiber. Studies show that almonds can help you lose weight, and provide impressive benefits for metabolic health (5).

12. Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are among the most nutrient dense foods on the planet. A single ounce (28 grams) contains 11 grams of fiber, and a large part of the recommended intake for magnesium, manganese, calcium and various other nutrients.

13. Coconuts

Coconuts are loaded with fiber and powerful fatty acids called medium-chain triglycerides.

14. Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts are very tasty. They are much higher in monounsaturated fats, and lower in Omega-6 fatty acids, than most other nuts.

15. Walnuts

Walnuts are highly nutritious and loaded with fiber and all sorts of vitamins and minerals.

16. Peanuts

Peanuts (technically legumes, not nuts) are incredibly tasty and high in nutrients and antioxidants. Several studies show that peanuts can help you lose weight (6, 7).

However, take it easy on the peanut butter. It is very high in calories and incredibly easy to eat excessive amounts of it.

17-26: Vegetables

Calorie for calorie, vegetables are among the world’s most concentrated sources of nutrients.

There is a wide variety available, and it is best to eat many different types of vegetables every day.

17. Asparagus

Asparagus is a popular vegetable. It is low in both carbs and calories, but loaded with vitamin K.

18. Bell Peppers

Bell peppers come in several colors, including red, yellow and green. They are crunchy and taste very sweet, and are a great source of antioxidants and vitamin C.

19. Broccoli

Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that tastes great both raw and cooked. It is an excellent source of fiber, vitamin K and vitamin C, and contains a decent amount of protein compared to other vegetables.

20. Carrots

The carrot is a popular root vegetable. It is extremely tasty and crunchy, and loaded with nutrients like fiber and vitamin K. Carrots are also very high in caroteneantioxidants, which have numerous benefits.

21. Cauliflower

Cauliflower is a very versatile cruciferous vegetable. It can be used to make all sorts of healthy recipes, and also tastes pretty good on its own.

22. Cucumber

The cucumber is one of the world’s most popular vegetables. It is very low in both carbs and calories, and consists mostly of water. However, it does contain a number of nutrients in small amounts, including vitamin K.

23. Garlic

Garlic is incredibly healthy. It contains allicin, a bioactive compound with powerful biological effects, including improved immune function (8).

24. Kale

Kale has been very popular in recent years, for good reason. It is incredibly high in vitamin K, vitamin C, fiber and a number of other nutrients. It is perfect to add a satisfying crunch to salads and recipes.

25. Onions

Onions have a very strong flavor, and are very popular for use in recipes. They contain a number of bioactive compounds believed to have health benefits.

26. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are usually categorized as a vegetable, although they are technically a fruit. They are tasty and loaded with nutrients like potassium and vitamin C.

More Healthy Vegetables

These weren’t listed, but are also very healthy: Artichokes, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, celery, eggplant, leeks, lettuce, mushrooms, radishes, squash, swiss chard, turnips, zucchini.

27-32: Fish and Seafood

Fish and other seafoods tend to be very healthy and nutritious.

They are especially rich in in omega-3 fatty acids and iodine, two nutrients that most people don’t get enough of.

Studies show that people who eat the most foods from the sea (especially fish) tend to live longer and have a lower risk of many diseases, including heart disease, dementia and depression (9, 10, 11).

27. Salmon

Salmon is a type of oily fish that is incredibly popular due to its excellent taste and high amount of nutrients, including protein and Omega-3 fatty acids. It also contains some vitamin D.

28. Sardines

Sardines are small, oily fish that are among the most nutritious foods you can eat. They contain hefty amounts of the majority of nutrients required by the human body.

29. Shellfish

Shellfish isn’t eaten very often, which is a shame because it contains more nutrients than almost every other food. It ranks similar to organ meats when it comes to nutrient density. Edible shellfish includes clams, mollusks and oysters.

30. Shrimp

Shrimp is a type of animal found in the sea. It tends to be low in fat and calories, but high in protein. It is also loaded with various other nutrients, including selenium and vitamin B12.

31. Trout

Trout is another type of delicious oily fish, similar to salmon.

32. Tuna

Tuna is very popular in Western countries, and tends to be low in fat and calories, but high in protein. It is perfect people who need to add more protein to their diets, while keeping calories low.

33-35: Grains

Grains have gotten a bad rap in recent years, mainly due to them being a forbidden food on the wildly popular paleo diet.

However, it is a mistake to lump all grains together. There are many different types of grains, and some of them are very healthy.

Just keep in mind that they are still pretty high in carbs, so they are not recommended on a low carb diet.

33. Brown Rice

Rice is one of the oldest cereal grains, and is currently a staple food for more than half of people in the world. Brown (whole grain) rice is fairly nutritious, with a decent amount of fiber, vitamin B1 and magnesium.

34. Oats

Oats are incredibly healthy. They are loaded with nutrients, and also contain powerful fibers called beta-glucans, shown to have numerous benefits.

35. Quinoa

Quinoa has become incredibly popular among health conscious individuals in recent years. It is a tasty grain that is high in nutrients like fiber and magnesium. It is also an excellent source of plant-based protein.

36-37: Breads

Most people eat a lot of bread.

For those who are trying to adopt a healthier diet for the first time, it can be extremely challenging to find something to eat instead of bread.

Fortunately, there are several healthy (or at least “less bad”) options available.

36. Ezekiel Bread

Ezekiel bread may be the healthiest bread you can buy at the store. It is made from organic, sprouted whole grains, and also contains several types of legumes.

37. Homemade low-carb breads

The safest choice for healthy bread is something that you make yourself. Here is a list of 15 recipes for healthy breads that are gluten-free and low in carbs.

38-40: Legumes

Legumes are another food group that has been unfairly demonized in recent years.

It is true that legumes contain anti-nutrients, substances that can interfere with digestion and absorption of nutrients.

However, these anti-nutrients can be eliminated by soaking and properly preparing the legumes before eating them (12).

What we’re left with is an incredibly cheap source of quality nutrition, including a great plant-based source of protein.

38. Green beans

Green beans, also called string beans, are unripe varieties of the common bean. They are very popular in Western countries.

39. Kidney beans

Kidney beans are loaded with various vitamins and minerals, and are very high in fiber. Just make sure to cook them properly, because they are toxic when raw.

40. Lentils

Lentils are another popular legume. They are high in fiber and are among the best sources of plant-based protein. Lentils also taste delicious, and have a very satisfying texture.

41-43: Dairy

Many people can’t tolerate dairy products.

However, for people who do tolerate them, they are a healthy source of various important nutrients.

Full-fat dairy products seem to be the best, and studies show that people who eat the most full-fat dairy have a lower risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes (13, 14).

If the dairy comes from grass-fed cows, then that may be even better, as it is higher in some bioactive fatty acids like CLA.

41. Cheese

Cheese is incredibly nutritious, and a single slice of it contains about the same nutrients as an entire cup of milk. It is also one of the most delicious foods you can eat.

42. Whole milk

Whole milk is very high in vitamins, minerals, quality animal protein and healthy fats. It is one of the best sources of calcium.

43. Yogurt

Yogurt is made from milk that is fermented by adding live bacteria to it. It has many of the same health effects as milk, except with the added benefits of the friendly probiotic bacteria.

44-46: Fats and Oils

The “war” on fat is lost, and many fats and oils have been making a comeback as health foods.

44. Butter from grass-fed cows

Butter from cows that were fed on grass is high in many important nutrients, including the very important vitamin K2.

45. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is loaded with powerful fatty acids called medium chain triglycerides. Coconut oil may have benefits for Alzheimer’s disease, and has been shown to help you lose belly fat (15, 16).

46. Extra virgin olive oil

Extra virgin olive oil is the healthiest fat on earth. It contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, and is very high in antioxidants with powerful health benefits.

47-48: Tubers

Tubers are the storage organs of some plants. They tend to contain a number of beneficial nutrients.

47. Potatoes

Potatoes are a very popular food around the world. They are loaded with potassium, and contain a little bit of almost every nutrient we need, including vitamin C.

They are also incredibly fulfilling. One study found that boiled potatoes were by far the most filling of 38 foods that were tested (17).

48. Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes are among the most delicious starchy foods you can eat. They are loaded with antioxidants and all sorts of healthy nutrients.

49. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is incredibly popular in the natural health community. Studies show that it can help lower blood sugar levels and cause modest weight loss (18, 19).

It is great to use in salad dressings, and to add flavor to meals.

50. Dark Chocolate

Not only is dark chocolate the most delicious food on this list, but it may also be the healthiest.

Dark chocolate is loaded with fiber and magnesium, and is one of the most powerful sources of antioxidants in existence

15 Heart-Healthy Foods to Work into Your Diet

Boost nutrition, flavor and color in meals and snacks

A healthy diet can be good for your heart as well as your waistline.

“You can definitely reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease by eating certain foods every day.There is a great variety of fruits and vegetables that are good for your heart.”

“Try to eat foods that are in their natural form, as they come from the ground,” Ms. Zumpano says, recommending what she calls the “whole-foods diet.”

That diet includes, of course, heart-healthy foods such as fish, whole grains, vegetables and fruits, but don’t be afraid to treat yourself occasionally with a glass of red wine or a piece of dark chocolate, Ms. Zumpano says. She suggests using this list as a guide to create meals and snacks with a healthy focus. Just a few simple swaps could make a big difference for your cardiovascular health.

15 foods that are good for your heart

1. Eat fish high in omega-3s, such as salmon, tuna, mackerel, herring and trout.
2. A handful of healthy nuts such as almonds or walnuts will satisfy your hunger and help your heart.
3. Berries are chock full of heart-healthy phytonutrients and soluble fiber. Try blueberries, strawberries, cranberries or raspberries in cereal or yogurt.
4. Flaxseeds contain omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and phytoestogens to boost heart health. Take them in ground or milled form to reap the greatest benefit.
5. Oatmeal: the comfort-food nutrient powerhouse.
6. Dark beans,such as kidney or black beans, are high in fiber, B-vitamins, minerals and other good stuff. Veggie chili, anyone?
7. A 4-ounce glass of red wine (up to two for men and one for women per day) can help improve good (HDL) cholesterol levels.
8. Try marinated tofu in a stir-fry with fresh veggies for a heart-healthy lunch or dinner.
9. Red, yellow and orange veggies such as carrots, sweet potatoes, red peppers and acorn squash are packed with carotenoids, fiber and vitamins to help your heart.
10. Popeye was right – spinach packs a punch! Use it in sandwiches and salads instead of lettuce.
11. Fruits such as oranges, cantaloupes and papaya are rich in beta-carotene, potassium, magnesium and fiber.
12. Tender, sweet asparagus is filled with mighty nutrients such as beta-carotene, folate and fiber, and only provide 25 calories per cup, or 5 calories per large spear.
13. Tomatoes – even sun-dried varieties in winter months – provide lycopene, vitamin C and alpha- and beta-carotene.
14. Dark chocolate is good for your heart health, but just be sure that it’s at least 70 percent cocoa.
15. Crisp, fresh broccoli florets dipped in hummus are a terrific heart-healthy snack with a whopping list of nutrients, including vitamins C and E, potassium, folate, calcium and fiber.

14 Plants and Herbs That Help Lungs, Heal Respiratory Infections, Repair Pulmonary Damage

march 29

A wave of viral and bacterial infections is sweeping across the Northern Hemisphere and people are taking longer to heal from an array of symptoms within the respiratory system. If you are resorting to conventional medicine to address these infections with antibiotics, you are not only adding to the problems associated with antibiotic resistance, but you’re also doing little to address the healing mechanisms within your body to address the cause. Herbal remedies not only boost lung health, but they can heal infections and even repair lung damage. Here are 15 of the best herbs to boost lung health.

1. LICORICE ROOT

Licorice is one of the more widely consumed herbs in the world. In Traditional Chinese Medicine it occurs in more formulas than any other single herb because it is thought to harmonize the action of all other herbs. Licorice is very soothing and softens the mucous membranes of the throat and especially the lungs and stomach and at the same time cleanses any inflamed mucous membrane that needs immune system support. . It reduces the irritation in the throat and yet has an expectorant action. It is the saponins (detergent-like action) that loosen the phlegm in the respiratory tract, so that the body can expel the mucus. Compounds within this root help relieve bronchial spasms and block the free radical cells that produce the inflammation and tightening of the air ways. The compounds also have antibacterial and antiviral effects to them as well which helps fight off viral and bacterial strains in the body that can cause lung infections. Glycrrhizins and flavonoids can even help prevent lung cancer cells from forming which means they can even prevent lung cancer.

2. COLTSFOOT

Coltsfoot has been traditionally by Native Americans for thousands of years to strengthen the lungs. It clears out excess mucus from the lungs and bronchial tubes. It soothes the mucus membranes in the lungs, and has been shown in research to assist with asthma, coughs, bronchitis, and other lung ailments. Coltsfoot is available in dried form for tea or as an alcohol extract known as a tincture.

3. CANNABIS

The toxic breakdown of therapeutic compounds in cannabis from burning the plant are totally avoided with vaporization. Extraction and inhaling cannabinoid essential oils of the unprocessed plant affords significant mitigation of irritation to the oral cavity that comes from smoking. Cannabis is perhaps one of the most effective anti-cancer plants in the world shown in study after study to stimulate cannabinoid receptor activation in specific genes and mediate the anti-invasive effect of cannabinoids. Vaporizing cannabis allows the active ingredients to stimulate the body’s natural immune response and significantly reduces the ability of infections to spread. Vaporizing cannabis (especially with very high amounts of cannabinoids) opens up airways and sinuses, acting as a bronchodilator. It is even a proven method to treat and reverse asthma.

4. OSHA ROOT

Osha is an herb native to the Rocky Mountain area and has historically been used by the Native Americans for respiratory support. The roots of the plant contain camphor and other compounds which make it one of the best lung-support herbs in America. One of the main benefits of osha root is that it helps increase circulation to the lungs, which makes it easier to take deep breaths. Also, when seasonal sensitivities flare up your sinuses, osha root which is not an actual antihistamine, does produce a similar effect and may be help calm respiratory irritation.

5. THYME

Thyme is very powerful in the fight against chest congestion. It produces powerful antiseptic essential oils which are classified as naturally antibiotic and anti-fungal. Thyme is a well known to zap acne than expensive prescription creams, gels and lotions. Thyme tea has the power to chase away and eliminate bacteria and viruses so whether your infection is based on either, it will work. Thyme has been used as a lung remedy consumed since antiquity and is used extensively to day to prevent and treat respiratory tract infections and bacterial infection pneumonia.

6. OREGANO

Although oregano contains the vitamins and nutrients required by the immune system, its primary benefits are owed to its carvacrol and rosmarinic acid content. Both compounds are natural decongestants and histamine reducers that have direct, positive benefits on the respiratory tract and nasal passage airflow.  fights off the dangerous bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, better than the most common antibiotic treatments. Oregano has so many health benefits that a bottle of organic oregano oil should be in everyone’s medicine cabinet.

7. LOBELIA

Did you know that horses given lobelia are able to breath more deeply? Its benefits are not limited to equestrians. It has been used as “asthmador” in Appalachian folk medicine. Lobelia, by some accounts, is thought to be one of the most valuable herbal remedies in existence. Extracts of Lobelia inflata contain lobeline, which showed positive effects in the treatment of multidrug-resistant tumor cells. Lobelia contains an alkaloid known as lobeline, which thins mucus, breaks up congestion. Additionally, lobelia stimulates the adrenal glands to release epinephrine, in effect, this relaxes the airways and allows for easier breathing. Also, because lobelia helps to relax smooth muscles, it is included in many cough and cold remedies. Lobelia should be part of everyone’s respiratory support protocol!

8. ELECAMPANE

Elecampane has been used by Native Americans for many years to clear out excess mucus that impairs lung function. It is known as a natural antibacterial agent for the lungs, helping to lessen infection particularly for people who are prone to lung infections like bronchitis. Herbal practitioners often recommend one teaspoon of the herb per cup of boiling water, drunk three times daily for two to three weeks but elecampane is also available in tincture format for ease.

9. EUCALYPTUS

Native to Australia, eucalyptus isn’t just for Koala bears! Aborigines, Germans, and Americans have all used the refreshing aroma of eucalyptus to promote respiratory health and soothe throat irritation. Eucalyptus is a common ingredient in cough lozenges and syrups and its effectiveness is due to a compound called cineole. Cineole has numerous benefits — it’s an expectorant, can ease a cough, fights congestion, and soothes irritated sinus passages. As an added bonus, because eucalyptus contains antioxidants, it supports the immune system during a cold or other illness.

10. MULLEIN

Both the flowers and the leaves of the mullein plant are used to make an herbal extract that helps strengthen the lungs. Mullein is used by herbal practitioners to clear excess mucus from the lungs, cleanse the bronchial tubes, and reduce inflammation that is present in the respiratory tract. A tea can be made from one teaspoon of the dried herb to one cup of boiled water. Alternatively, you can take a tincture form of this herb.

11. LUNGWORT

Lungwort is a tree-growing lichen that actually resembles lung tissue in appearance. However, this natural remedy doesn’t just look the part. As early as the 1600s, lungwort has been used to promote lung and respiratory health and clear congestion. Pulmonaria selections come in all kinds so seek an herbologist for direction. Lungwort also contains compounds that are powerfully effective against harmful organisms that affect respiratory health.

12. CHAPARRAL

Chaparral, a plant native to the southwest, has been appreciated by the Native Americans for lung detoxification and respiratory support. Chaparral contains powerful antioxidants that resist irritation and NDGA which is known to fight histamine response. NDGA inhibits aerobic and anaerobic glycolysis (the energy-producing ability) of cancer cells. Chaparral is also an herb that fights harmful organisms. The benefits of chaparral are most available in a tincture extraction but chaparral tea may support respiratory problems by encouraging an expectorant action to clear airways of mucus.

13. SAGE

Sage’s textured leaves give off a heady aroma, which arises from sage’s essential oils. These oils are the source of the many benefits of sage tea for lung problems and common respiratory ailments. Sage tea is a traditional treatment for sore throats and coughs. The rich aromatic properties arising from sage’s volatile oils of thujone, camphor, terpene and salvene can be put to use by inhaling sage tea’s vapors to dispel lung disorders and sinusitis. Alternatively, brew a strong pot of sage tea and place it into a bowl or a vaporizer.

14. PEPPERMINT

Peppermint, and peppermint oil, contains menthol — a soothing ingredient known to relax the smooth muscles of the respiratory tract and promote free breathing. Dried peppermint typically contains menthol, menthone, menthyl acetate, menthofuran and cineol. Peppermint oil also contains small amounts of many additional compounds including limonene, pulegone, caryophyllene and pinene. Paired with the antihistamine effect of peppermint, menthol is a fantastic decongestant. Many people use therapeutic chest balms and other inhalants that contain menthol to help break up congestion. Additionally, peppermint is an antioxidant and fights harmful organisms.

15. PLANTAIN LEAF

With fruit that is similar in appearance to a banana, plantain leaf has been used for hundreds of years to ease cough and soothe irritated mucous membranes. Many of its active constituents show antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, as well as being anti-inflammatory and antitoxic. Clinical trials have found it favorable against cough, cold, and lung irritation. Plantain leaf has an added bonus in that it may help relieve a dry cough by spawning mucus production in the lungs.

Seek the advice of an herbologist or Naturopathic Doctor on the preparation, appropriate dosages and frequency according to your condition. Many of the herbs above may also be combined for cumulative effects. All of the above are available in various forms, as nutritional supplements, tea blends and prepared oils. You can always grow your own as well to ensure your herbs are organic and ethically harvested.

HEALTHY BREAKFAST

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. However, due to the urgency of reaching to office on time, a lot of people skip breakfast at home, and have something unhealthy like a burger on the way to work. This has an impact on their energy levels throughout the day, and they experience lower levels of concentration. In the long run, this unhealthy habit could lead to a variety of ailments.

Skipping breakfast or not having a healthy one will make your entire day lethargic. You will feel less energised and will have lower levels of concentration. Your body needs food to run efficiently and depriving it of breakfast will eventually lead to health problems.

Since mornings are usually a rush, you want to eat something that is quick to make and is healthy too. Most people associate a healthy breakfast with either eating a bowl of cereals with milk, oats or eggs. While these are healthy, there are various Indian dishes too that are really healthy and easy to make as well. Here are a few ingredients you can use in your breakfast recipes.

Soya

Soya is an excellent source of protein. Almost 35 per cent of its calories come from protein. If you are a vegetarian then do include this in your meals. It is also a good source for fibre and minerals. It can lower cholesterol levels as it has isoflavones thus improving heart health. A quick and easy-to-make recipe using soya is soya dosa. It is healthy with a twist to the usual dosa. Read about the various vegetarian sources of protein.

Nachni

Also called ragi, nachni has a number of health benefits and it does not have much fat. If you are on a weight loss diet then this is a good option for you. Nachni is also a great source of iron and fibre. People suffering from diabetes can also benefit from eating dishes containingnachni. Try making nachni pancakes for breakfast.

Sprouts

Sprouts are relatively easy to make. All you need to do is take a handful of pulses and soak them overnight. Drain them and put them in a muslin cloth and leave it for a few hours (preferably 8 hrs). It takes time but not much effort is needed. Once the sprouts are ready, you can add chopped onions and tomatoes and eat them or try making poha with mixed sprouts. Sprouts are loaded with benefits. They are a rich source of minerals and essential vitamins and since they are raw, they do not lose any of their plant nutrients.