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5 Healthy Foods and How to Eat Them

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January 14, 2014

Along with the new year, many people have made New Years’ resolutions to get healthier. Some people intend to quit smoking, others exercise more, and still more to eat healthier. Unfortunately, many people last only a few weeks being true to their resolutions. Some people are frustrated because they think that eating healthier is too complicated, too time-intensive, or too expensive. These five healthy foods are not only inexpensive but easy to prepare. Make sure to put a few of them in your grocery cart the next time you go food shopping.

5 Healthy Foods and How to Eat Them

  • Swiss Chard is a leafy green that is very high in vitamins and minerals.  You can find it in the grocery store by looking for a green leafy vegetable with different colored stalks, including yellow, orange and even red.  Because Swiss Chard is high in magnesium and calcium, it helps strengthen bones. Simply substitute Swiss Chard in a recipe that calls for spinach.  One of my favorite uses is in a quiche with mushrooms.
  • Peppermint may remind you of candy canes and ice cream. However, peppermint oil is actually very beneficial in helping digestion and irritable bowel syndrome.  We always have peppermint tea on hand in case one of the kids has a stomach ache.  You can grow peppermint easily in your herb garden and add the fresh leaves to fruit salads.  It goes particularly well with watermelon.
  • Sardines are very high in iron and other minerals.  This makes them a great choice for me because I am anemic.  Sardines also contain healthy omega 3 fatty acids.  I admit to not being a huge fan of sardines whole from the tin, however you can chop them finely and add them to a pasta salad if you prefer.
  • Plums are delicious and can be enjoyed straight from the fruit bowl. No preparation necessary. Plums help your body to absorb iron and are high in antioxidants. They can be enjoyed fresh or grilled or even made into individual plum tarts. My Grandmother even made a plum jam when I was a little girl.
  • Seaweed is very popular in the Japanese culture.  They are very high in mineral content and are also a good choice for those who want to add fiber to their diet.  Seaweed isn’t something that I have ever tried although I have a friend who enjoys it in sushi vegetable rolls.  I have also seen dried seaweed in the health food stores. Give it a try and let me know if you enjoy it.

Have you tried any of these healthy foods? Which ones will be you trying in a recipe for the first time?

photo credit: ulterior epicure via photopin cc

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