Here is a set of five foods that once were treated as bad or unhealthy foods. Thanks to modern studies, these foods have claimed their place in the healthy food list. So go take a bite!
Chocolates
Everyone loves chocolate, but what makes chocolate so irresistible? One thing is sure, chocolate’s charisma lies in its tempting taste. But it is unfortunate that all you hear about chocolate is its bad reputation – from rotting teeth to acne. Good news! Chocolate isn’t as bad for you as once believed; studies have shown that it has some health benefits, too.
Recent researches have revealed that chocolate is rich in flavonoids. What are flavonoids? These are natural compounds found in fruit and vegetables. They act as powerful antioxidants in your body, to fight off toxins and help your body’s cells to fight damage. Also, flavonoids also help check bad cholesterol – thus decreasing the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke. Recent studies indicate that eating moderate amount of dark chocolate is beneficial for people with diabetes. Furthermore, chocolate is a good source of potassium, magnesium, and several vitamins – including B1, B2, D, and E.
Knowing the above mentioned health benefits of chocolate, does it implies that you eat more chocolate products? Nope, overindulgence can lead to weight gain, which may result to heart problems and strokes. Moderation is always the key – consumed small portions of chocolates (about six grams of chocolate per day) and don’t forget to eat other flavonoid-rich foods like red wine, green tea, apples and cranberries.
Eggs
Is eating eggs unhealthy? Pity the poor egg; for years now, the dietary naysayers put eggs the villain of the breakfast world. These people are dead-scared about the high cholesterol content (found in the egg yolk) that can put you at risk of heart attacks. Today, continuous researches and studies have rebutted this misguided belief and medical findings have shown that eating eggs is healthy. New study indicates that people who eat eggs every day lower their risk of heart disease, stroke and blood clots. According to this study, there is no noteworthy connection between egg consumption and heart disease.
Eggs are loaded with high-quality protein and all 9 essential amino acids. They are good source of lutein and zeaxanthin that are beneficial for the eyes. Furthermore, eggs contain choline that helps manage the brain, nervous system, and cardiovascular system. Yes, one egg a day is acceptable, but people with heart diseases and diabetes should go for a small or medium egg.
Avocados
Avocado shakes this summer… I simply love that! However, some tend to cross-out this green fruit on their summer fruits list. Why, because of the misguided belief that it has high fat content. But avocado has made a dramatic comeback; thanks for the numerous studies and researches done proving that this delicious fruit has tremendous health benefits!
While it is a fact that avocado is indeed high in fat — nutritionists point out that avocados contain a monounsaturated fat (oleic acid) as well as a natural substance (beta-sitosterol), which help regulate blood cholesterol levels. Avocados’ high amount of folate are also protective against strokes. Thus, avocado is a highly recommended medicinal fruit for cholesterol-related heart diseases. Avocados are also rich in carotenoid lutein that help prevent cataracts and other age-related eye diseases.
Other studies reveal that avocados have anti-cancer benefits, helpful in preventing mouth cancer, breast cancer, skin cancer, and prostate cancer. If you believe avocado is a healthy fruit, then make it a point to have a few slices of avocado added to your meal. By the way, studies have revealed that an ounce of avocado has 60% more potassium than bananas.
Nuts
To crack or not to crack? Many people are worried to eat nuts because of its high fat contents. Yes they are right! But restrain not yourself in consuming these delicious nuts — they can be healthy and delicious, if eaten in moderation.
Nuts like walnuts, almonds and Brazil nuts do contain fats — but ‘good fats’or monounsaturated fats. Scientific evidence suggests eating nuts regularly can lower risks of heart disease. These monounsaturated fats help lower your LDL cholesterol and raise your HD L cholesterol. Other studies suggest that a few nuts can even facilitate weight loss.
The best way to reap nuts health benefits is to eat them in replacement of unhealthy snacks or junk foods. Each type of nuts have dozens of other health benefits, so Go Nuts!
Maple Syrup
Pancakes and maple syrup go to together as food lovers may say. Though these fave pancake sweetener contains lots of sugar and calories; it too are pack with plenty of healthy antioxidants. Recent studies have revealed that maple syrup contains more than 10 antioxidants!
Pure maple syrup contains healthy compounds (lignans and falconoid) that are also found in berries, whole wheat, tea, and flax seed. These compounds are known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. Maple syrup is also a good source of important nutrients like calcium, iron, potassium and zinc.
Despite the health benefits that makes it a very alluring as a sweetener, keep in mind that maple syrup is still just liquid sugar. Always consume maple syrup in moderation. Too much of it can result to weight gain and can increase the risk of diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure.
