Top 10 Healthy Foods

When trying to keep a healthy diet, you should consider the top 10 healthy foods list. While there are no magic foods, there are ones that you should pay special attention to because of their health benefits. These foods are anything from low in calories, full of vitamins to helping to prevent serious illnesses. The key to any healthy diet is balance and that should be kept in mind.

1. Berries – They are rich in antioxidants making cancer fighters. Berries are a good source of Vitamin C and fiber. A cup of fresh strawberries contains as much Vitamin C as a glass of orange juice and many people with problems digesting food acids find them much easier on their stomach. Studies have shown that blueberries might help reverse short term memory loss. The phytochemicals and flavonoids in berries that give them their color may help to prevent some forms of cancer. Cranberries and blueberries can help reduce the risk of bladder infection.
2. Artichokes - While not everyone’s favorite vegetable, the heath benefits in artichokes are numerous. It contains silymarin, which helps prevent skin cancer. Artichokes also have a high amount of fiber to aid in controlling cholesterol. Artichokes have been known through history to positively help poor liver function, arteriosclerosis, gout, and improves gall secretions. If your diet has been poor by containing excess alcoholic drinks, red meat and fatty foods, then you should consider adding this vegetable to your diet. It improves liver function by boosting your livers natural ability to regenerate cells.
3. Garlic – This is another great food if you are watching your cholesterol levels and it also helps to lower blood pressure. Studies have shown that the daily consumption of garlic can reduce the risk of stomach cancer and influenza. Many people who choose to add garlic to their diet do so in the form of a pill because adding it to food can cause bad breath.
4. Broccoli – This vegetable contains sulforaphane, which research is showing to help prevent cancer. It also can boost your immune system. Broccoli is also a good source of vitamin C.
5. Avocados - While not just great for dip, avocados have a lot to offer health-wise. It is an excellent source of fiber. Avocados also contain Oleic acid, which helps to lower overall cholesterol and raise levels of HDL.
6. Nuts – A great healthy snack are nuts. Almonds and peanuts can help lower LDL cholesterol levels. Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids, which is an essential fat for the human body but not naturally produced. Omega-3 fatty acids guard against heart disease.
7. Yogurt - This is an excellent source of calcium and if you happen to be lactose intolerant, it shouldn’t upset your stomach. The bacteria in active-culture yogurt can also prevent yeast infections. Yogurt is a very and easy healthy snack. There are a variety of flavors available and many contain fruit which adds a boost of vitamin C. 
8. Spinach – If eye health is of a concern to you, then spinach is a vegetable you should consider adding to you diet. Spinach contains lutein, which helps to prevent cataract and age related macular degeneration. Raw spinach is a very health addition to salads and doesn’t require a lot of added preparation.
9. Turkey – While low in calories, turkey is one of the leanest proteins out there. It also contains selenium which has health benefits such as aiding in metabolism, improving immunity and inhibiting cancer development. This healthy meat does not only have to be the big hassle most people only break out around the holidays. Ground turkey meat can be used in most recipes that calls for ground beef and can be bought at most grocery stores.
10. Crab– This food is high in vitamin B12 and has zinc, which boost immunity. Be carful of imitation crab meat and that found in sushi, which is normally made of fish. Like with most foods fresh is always better. If you are unable to get fresh crab meat, try frozen or canned. Check the labels to make sure the meat is not overly processed with lots of additives.