Eating healthy doesn’t mean you can’t eat what you want. In fact, a lot of foods you might think are unhealthy actually have nutritional benefits!
Healthy Eats blogged about a ton of foods that are healthier than you think. Here are a few that might surprise you:
Coffee: “Along with adding a little pep to your step, coffee is teeming with antioxidants. Research has linked drinking the brewed beverage to a decreased risk of type-2 diabetes and improved mental health as you age.”
Spaghetti and meatballs: “Thanks to the iron and protein from the beef, lycopene from the tomato sauce and energy-producing carbs from the pasta, this dish a healthy trifecta. If you stick to modest portions and lean beef, you can enjoy its benefits without overdoing it. Limit yourself to three ounces of meat and a cup of cooked pasta per serving.”
Peanut butter: “I always hear “peanut butter is fattening!” Sure, it contains fat, but 30% of your daily calories should come from healthy fats, so why not add peanut butter in as an option? The nutty spread is also a great way to get protein, fiber and vitamin E. The same goes for whole peanuts or nuts such as almonds and walnuts — they’re a great way to get your daily dose of healthy fats.”
Burritos: “Yes, burritos can be a healthy choice. When filled with vegetables, rice, beans and small portions of meat, these Tex-Mex treats can cover all your nutrition bases in one tortilla. Opt for 8-inch, whole-wheat tortillas and lay off the sour cream and loads of cheese to keep the calories and fat in check.”
Chicken thighs: “Dark meat chicken has a bad rep for being fatty and artery-clogging when it’s actually the skin you should be avoiding. Dark meat, like avocados, is high in healthy monounsaturated fats. Thighs are also more affordable than skinless chicken breasts, so they’re an all-around smart addition to your weeknight dinner routine.”
Photo by: cyclonebill
