Everyone has a general idea that vegetables and fruits are power packed with nutrients. However, not all vegetables are alike and some of the most healthiest foods may come in the form of animal products, such as krill oil, salmon and fish oil. Let's not forget hot chicken soup for a cold either. While there are no perfect foods, you can include these top ten healthiest foods in your diet as often as you like and you'll only be healthier for doing so.
1) Broccoli and other Crucifers
Broccoli, as well as other crucifers such as cauliflower, cabbage and Brussels sprouts, is a powerful cancer fighter. It contains phytonutrients known as isothiocyanates that increase the capacity of the liver to destroy cancer causing compounds. One cup of broccoli also contains more than 200 percent of your required daily amount of vitamin C, almost 200 percent of your required daily amount of vitamin K and 50 percent of the RDA of vitamin A as well as many other vitamins and minerals.
2) Lemons
Just one quarter of a cup of lemon juice provides almost fifty percent of your required daily amount of vitamin C. However, the real benefit of lemons is the antioxidant properties and the effect the phytonutrients contained in lemons has on the body's cells. Various studies show that lemons and limes aid in the healing process by influencing the cells ability to divide. Lemons are also antibiotic in addition to fighting rheumatoid arthritis. Just adding the juice of a lemon to your water several times a day can dramatically increase your health.
3) Acai Berry
Included in the list of top ten healthiest foods is acai berry. Acai contains powerful antioxidants that can protect your body from everything ranging from ailments to aging. The anthocyanins, substances that give the berry its color and flavonoids provide the potent protection for the body.
4) Blueberries
Another colorful fruit that contains powerful anthocyanins and flavonoids is the blueberry. This powerful little fruit also improves the brain functioning in older adults and provides not only cardiovascular support but whole body support.
5) Beans
The brighter the color of the bean, including black beans, the more antioxidants the bean contains. Beans provide protection against heart disease, cut the potential for high blood pressure, help prevent cancer and are effective as oat bran to lower your blood pressure. They are low in fat, high in protein, fiber, folic acid, potassium and iron.
6) Turmeric and Other Spices
You can improve your health and the flavor of your meals by adding a little of spice to your food. While many spices improve the flavor and add additional nutrients without adding extra calories, turmeric now has a variety of studies that show it may be the next miracle herb, making it one of the top 10 healthiest foods. It fights cancer, helps reduce inflammation, is a natural antiseptic and slows Alzheimer's disease.
7) Walnuts and Other Nuts
Walnuts, as well as other nuts such as pecans, are brain foods. These nuggets of protein also help improve the cardiovascular system, fight cancer and helps control diabetes.
8) Salmon
Salmon is one of the top ten healthiest foods and is high in Omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation that may be the cause of many diseases such as heart disease, certain types of cancer, arthritis and diabetes.
9) Avocado
The avocado contains many different phytonutrients that fight against certain forms of cancer. It also contains oleic acid that lowers cholesterol and a high amount of potassium to regulate blood pressure.
10) Garlic and Onions
Garlic not only keeps away vampires, it also helps build your immune system to keep away diseases, including the common cold. It's a natural antibiotic that is also a powerful antioxidant.
