Some foods aren’t as good for you as you may think. It’s important for you to know which foods are good for you and which aren’t – We’ve listed 10 Power Foods, and 8 Junk Foods to get you on the right track!
10 Power Foods:
- Apples. Animal studies suggest that polyphenols (antioxidants) in apples might promote longevity. Other studies have found that they may help to control cholesterol levels and reduce stroke risk.
- Almonds. Filled with fibre and healthy fats, these nuts may keep cholesterol levels balanced, reduce appetite, protect your heart and help you live longer.
- Broccoli. Contains compounds that cut’s the risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and some cancers.
- Blueberries. May keep your mind sharp as you age and lower heart attack and high blood pressure risk when eaten regularly.
- Oily Fish. Like salmon, trout and mackerel, contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have been found to be anti-inflammatory and to enhance heart, brain and immune system health.
- Leafy Greens. Especially the dark-green ones, are rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, and some research says that eating lots of spinach and cabbage may cut your risk of type II diabetes.
- Sweet Potatoes. Will give you a good supply of complex carbs, fibre, beta carotene, and vitamins C and B.
- Wheat Germ. Is high in vitamin E, folic acid, vitamin B1, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus and essential fatty acids.
- Avocados. Are high in fat – but it’s the health-enhancing type. Diets that include avocados have been associated with better nutrient intake, less added sugar, and lower body weight, body mass index and waist circumference.
- Oats. The fibre in a daily bowl of oats – particularly the steel-cut kind – may drop raised cholesterol levels, keep you satisfied for longer and stabilise blood sugar levels.
8 Junk Foods In Disguise
- Fruit Juice. Contains none of whole fruits’ fibre and as much sugar as sugary sodas. It’s also thought to have similar negative health effects to sugar-sweetened drinks.
- Protein Bars. Are usually highly processed, often containing just as much sugar and refined carbohydrates as chocolate. They’re also frequently full of bad fats, salt and additives.
- Health Shakes. Are often packed with sugar, refined carbohydrates and pro-inflammatory fats.
- Energy Foods. Usually supply fast-release kilojoules from refined or high-GI carbs. Leave these for the elite athletes and muscle builders; in anyone else, they’re more likely to promote weight gain and insulin resistance.
- Commercial Smoothies. Can contain hidden sugar from ingredients like frozen yoghurt. They’re also often kilojoule-bombs, so when slurped down as a snack they can contribute to weight gain.
- “Wholesome” Breakfast Cereal. Like bran flakes and muesli frequently contain lots of added sugar and high-GI carbs, which push up blood sugar levels and promote fat storage.
- Rice Cakes. Although they contain hardly any kilojoules, they also have hardly any nutrition. Plus, they trigger a blood sugar spike and won’t keep you full for long.
- Multigrain Bread. Just because it contains lots of different grains, doesn’t mean these grains are whole or healthy. Multigrain breads can be just as refined as white bread. These breads may also be high in sugar and salt.
