12 Essential Foods to Stock in Your Healthy Kitchen - Part 2

            

           If you missed Part 1 of 12 Essential Foods to Stock in Your Healthy Kitchen, you can check it out here:  http://beingmargebrown.blogspot.com/2017/01/12-essential-foods-to-stock-in-your.html

          To continue setting your kitchen up for a healthy year ahead, make sure you stock the following ingredients.

          Quinoa 

Quinoa is indeed a very big deal, so much so that the United Nations declared 2013 the International Year of Quinoa. Quinoa seeds are among just a few vegetarian protein sources that include the full range of essential amino acids in the correct proportion humans need in their diet. It’s also low-calorie, a good source of fiber, gluten free, inexpensive, easy to store, easy to prepare, and, because it doesn’t have a strong flavor of its own, it can be mixed with many other ingredients for satisfying breakfasts, salads, and main courses.

2   Nuts

Heart-healthy nuts are good snacks, which are best eaten in small portions due to their high calorie count. Many nuts are high in protein and contain fiber and good levels of healthy mono-unsaturated fats. All nuts are not equal, and some are better than others, depending on your health goals. For instance, almonds are high in calcium and relatively low in calories; pistachios contain fewer calories and more potassium than other nuts; cashews are low in fiber and high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Overall, nuts are nutritious, versatile, tasty, and there is a variety for countless cooking options.

     Oats

     

 

Most often people eat oats in the form of oatmeal, but this naturally gluten-free grain is also commonly used in breads and healthy snacks. There are only good things to say about oats. They’re not only inexpensive, but they’re packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, providing health benefits related to heart disease, blood sugar levels, weight-loss, and digestion. Oats are very filling and they promote healthy gut bacteria levels. Try a bowl of oatmeal with dark berries and grated almonds for breakfast to combine three healthy ingredients from your healthy kitchen!

P.S. How about 70 Super Foods for breakfast?

And, if you want to learn more about why I jump start my day by drinking 70 super foods in Shakeology, go here: http://fitsolutionsblog.com/shakeology/#!1872.

12 Essential Foods to Stock in Your Healthy Kitchen - Part 1

    Since January is the time when most people want to get back on track with their health  and fitness, it's a good time to consider a list of 12 Essential Foods to Stock in Your Healthy Kitchen. This is the first of a four-part series, giving you the details.

   1.  Extra Virgin Olive Oil 

 

Use extra virgin olive oil daily and you’ll gain amazing health benefits. First, be sure you purchase “extra virgin” olive oil, because it’s more nutrition dense and tastier than regular olive oil and it’s extracted from olives with only natural methods. Extra virgin olive oil contains beneficial fatty acids, and it’s replete with antioxidants and nutrients that can fight inflammation, a prime factor in various diseases, such as heart disease and cancer. Use this natural ingredient liberally to help protect you and your family from high blood pressure, oxidation of LDL particles, and inflammation. 

    2.   Kale 

 

Kale should top your list of healthy ingredients. It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and has zero fat. It supports your body's detoxification process. Kale supports your cardiovascular system and helps to lower cholesterol, especially if steamed.  It contains powerful antioxidants that protect your cells from free radicals that cause cell oxidation. Kale has anti-inflammatory properties that work with its antioxidants to help prevent and combat some types of cancer. It's rich in Vitamins C, A, K, and iron, which provide a myriad of benefits, such as helping to lower blood pressure, protecting against eye diseases, maintaining healthy bones and teeth, and supporting your body's nervous system.

    3. Avocado

 

Avocados are something you should eat on a regular basis. They taste great, and, like extra virgin olive oil, due to their heart-healthy fatty acids, they help reduce the risk factors associated with heart disease. Avocados are low-carb and high-fiber to help support weight loss. Not only will they help your body absorb more nutrients from other plant-based foods, but avocados are rich in vitamins, including vitamins K, C, B5, B6, and potassium. Look for a yellow button on avocados to ensure ripeness.

P.S. How about 70 Super Foods for breakfast?

And, if you want to learn more about why I jump start my day by drinking 70 super foods in Shakeology, go here: http://fitsolutionsblog.com/shakeology/#!1872.