10 Wonder Foods that Aren’t Hard to Find

Sharon Moore September 02, 2015

Many of us always think of healthy foods as hard-to-find treasures. Yes they are indeed treasures. But majority of the healthiest foods out there aren’t hard to find. Chances are, they are sitting in your pantry for such a long time now, you just don’t realise how great they are for your health.

Below are among the healthiest foods in the world that are available all seasons. Stocking up on them is a great way to ensure that you are observing a healthy and balanced diet.

Cranberries

Perfect for juicing, these beautiful and delicious berries are packed with antioxidants known to promote a healthy and long life. Regular consumption of cranberries can lead to lowered risk of urinary tract infections, improved immune function, reduced blood pressure, and prevention of certain types of cancer. Not to mention, half a cup of cranberries contains only 25 calories!

Spinach

Spinach goes well with so many dishes, from sandwiches to sautés and salads. According to a recent study carried out by Rush University in Chicago, a daily serving of spinach may help slow the age-associated cognitive decline. The researchers attribute this amazing benefit to the hefty amount of Vitamin K present in the vegetable.

Apples

The old saying ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’ is absolutely true. This fruit, which is available all year round, is a haven of antioxidants and many other nutrients, including fibre, that are good for your heart and overall health.

Fermented Products

There’s a great reason to love Korean kimchi. According to a study carried out by researchers from Chungnam National University in Korea, Chinese cabbage and radish (main ingredients of kimchi) contain bio-chemicals such as isocyanate and sulphide that are helpful in detoxifying heavy metals found in the liver, small intestine and kidneys. Like kimchi, yoghurt, sauerkraut and other fermented products contain healthy bacteria and probiotics that don’t just improve our physical health but also our mental health!

Garlic

Garlic has always been the magical ingredient behind so many savoury meals. This amazing spice does not only enhance the flavour of our food, but also the quality of our health! Garlic is considered the world’s best natural antibiotic, exhibiting powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It is loaded with antioxidants too, and is known to be effective in helping regulate blood sugar levels.

Asparagus

You know what makes asparagus incredibly healthy? It is packed with glutathione – the ‘mother of all antioxidants’. Such compound is specifically beneficial to the brain, particularly in supporting cognitive function and keeping older brains healthier.

Avocado

Avocado is rich in fats – but only good fats, particularly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. It is very filling, so it’s a perfect snack for everyone trying to reduce their calorie intake. This super fruit may also help counter stress-eating by filling your belly and making you feel more satisfied.

Green Tea

You need not swap it for your coffee, but you can consider squeezing in a cup of nutritious green tea in your daily diet. Japanese researchers found that tea drinkers tend to have longer life because they face lower risk of heart disease and stroke.

Chili Pepper

Not only does chili spice up your life, it adds more years to it too. In one study performed by researchers in China, it was found that people who eat spicy foods, like peppers, have lower likelihood of dying early. Consumption of chili peppers was also linked to lower risk of mortality caused by cancer and heart disease.

Tomato

Regular consumption of tomatoes has been shown to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and some cancers. Not only is it a good source of vitamin C, tomatoes also boast incredible amounts of an antioxidant called Lycopene.