A balanced diet is essential for overall health, and cutting back on unhealthy foods is an excellent way to achieve this goal. Instead of animal fats and refined carbohydrates, you can replace them with healthier options. However, substituting animal fats with refined carbohydrates won’t reduce your risk of heart disease, nor will it improve your mood. Also, many packaged foods are loaded with sugar and unhealthy fats, so it’s best to look for healthy alternatives that are not hidden in processed and packaged food.
Onions, for example, are an excellent choice because they contain bioactive compounds believed to be beneficial to the human body. In addition, tomatoes, although technically a fruit, are loaded with vitamin C and potassium. Similarly, broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower are excellent choices for the dinner table. Most vegetables are good sources of these nutrients, as well. You can also add some roasted garlic to your salad for extra health benefits. Garlic contains bioactive sulfur compounds, which boost the immune system and fight against disease. Kale is high in fiber and vitamins and can also add a crunch to your meal.
Regardless of whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat eater, consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables will help you achieve the healthiest diet possible. Aside from eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, you should also consume a large amount of whole grains and legumes. Those foods are packed with nutrients and need minimal preparation. And they are also delicious. Moreover, they’re easy to find.
