Six Foods You Didn’t Know Were Super Healthy

We’re often taught that certain foods are “bad” or “good.” While most things are at least okay in moderation, there are others we think are best to avoid if we want to be healthy. But what if there were a plethora of nutritious foods that most people pass right by in the grocery store?

Here are six foods you might want to add to your shopping list for a healthier lifestyle.

Hemp Seeds

Hemp seeds are phenomenally healthy but often overshadowed by their more attractive cousin, chia seeds. They’re an incredible option for getting more protein in your diet, meaning that any vegan or vegetarian concerned about their protein intake should be sprinkling this on just about everything. They’re also rich in omega fatty acids, which have been shown to improve cognition and support a healthy heart.

Nutritional Yeast

Nutritional yeast, or “nooch,” as it’s often affectionately called, has been enjoyed by plant-based enthusiasts for years. With a flavor that many suggest is similar to cheese, it’s a staple in vegetarian and vegan pantries for making everything from mac and cheese to a surprisingly cheesy and addicting popcorn. But most people don’t realize that nutritional yeast is rich in B vitamins and a complete protein source. Try even just a splash of some yourself next time for a nutritional boost and an umami bomb in sauces or seasonings.

Kimchi

Kimchi has had a culinary Renaissance that sees no end in sight. But to Koreans, it’s basically the equivalent of ketchup: a necessary condiment served with all kinds of dishes. Kimchi isn’t just beloved for its salty/tangy/sour aspects; the fermentation process packs it with probiotics that are a godsend for your gut microbiome. And since it’s mostly veggies, you’ll get the bonus of additional vitamins, too.

Seaweed

Another food that’s a staple in many other cultures but typically not enjoyed by Americans is seaweed. The briny and salty flavor is reminiscent of capers, and it’s catching on: many groceries now carry dried versions of the ocean vegetable that come in multiple snackable flavors like sesame or teriyaki. Seaweed also boasts many unique and valuable nutrients like iodine, vitamin K, and iron.

Sardines

Canned fish has a bad rep for doing nothing more than being a doomsday pantry food or ruining a perfectly good pizza. But sardines, anchovies, and other canned fish are phenomenally delicious ways to get some of your more vital nutrients. The best part about sardines? They’re lower in mercury compared to other tinned fishes, making them one of the safer choices to pick up. They’re also high in calcium, Vitamin D, and Omega-3s.

Pumpkin Seeds

Rounding out our list is a commonly seen but rarely eaten unsung hero of the nutritional world: pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas. These healthy powerhouses pack a punch, even in a smaller package! They contain healthy fats, magnesium, and zinc, which are all essential for healthy bodily functions while reducing inflammation. Pepitas can even help you get better sleep thanks to a modest amount of tryptophan. 

 

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