The Top 10 Healthiest Foods for 2019!


On one of my favorite sites, Care 2 (www.care2.com), food researcher/writer, Jordyn Cormier, announced that kale’s superfood reign has finally come to an end.

For years, kale was one of the trendiest superfoods, infiltrating salads, smoothies and even unseating potato chips as the crispy, salty snack of choice. But no more.

Jordyn cites the latest science-research-based “What‘s Trending in Nutrition” survey (over 1300 top nutrition experts), that says the top 10 superfoods for 2019 are kale-less. Here’s what the list looks like for this year, and why each food is just so super.


#10 NON-DAIRY MILKS. With the rise of plant-based eating, non-dairy milk consumption will continue to increase—especially oat milk.

People want nutrient-rich milks that are both healthy and gentle on the planet. Prepare for non-dairy options to fully overwhelm their dairy counterparts at your local coffee shops, also.


#9 COCONUT PRODUCTS. It’s a nationwide coconut obsession (think coconut oil, water, milk, cream, flour, chips and flakes, etc). And well it should be. Coconuts are rich in MCTs, which are easily absorbed by the body and actually boost metabolism while nourishing the brain. Also extremely rich in lauric acid, coconut acts as a powerful antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal when consumed.

#8 NUTS. We’re nuts about nuts (thanks in part to the paleo diet). But paleo or not, boatloads of research nails them as one of the healthiest foods you can eat. Nuts are full of healthy fats, vitamins, minerals and fiber, so snack away—just be careful not to overindulge.


#7 BEETS. Super rich in antioxidants and nutrients like iron, beets also contain a high amount of nitric oxide, which improves athletic performance by boosting the efficiency of our cells’ mitochondria and increasing oxygen uptake.

#6 BLUEBERRIES. You knew that, right? They’re loaded with fiber, nutrients, and antioxidants, like anthocyanins—the antioxidant that gives these berries their beautiful color.

Their high antioxidant content helps to protect our bodies from free radical damage, which can contribute to premature aging and disease. Classic superfood.



#5 EXOTIC FRUITS. But maybe you didn’t know about these: Acai and golden berries. Acai berries look like blueberries. Golden berries look like little yellow cherry tomatoes. Both are incredibly rich in nutrients and antioxidants, so adding them into your diet is a smart idea. In fact, latest research shows they have anticancer properties and even support brain health!

#4 ANCIENT GRAINS. Quinoa, amaranth, buckwheat, millet, einkorn—these ancient whole grains are all incredibly healthful and flavorful. They are rich in plant proteins, minerals, vitamins and fiber, and many are gluten free. And even those ancient grains that do contain gluten seem to be less likely to cause intolerance.

But even if the health benefits of foods isn’t a prime concern, you might want to try cooking with whole grains anyway. They add wonderful diversity to the flavors and textures to dishes. (When it comes to diet, what’s old is new.)

#3 SEEDS. The nice thing about seeds? Few people experience sensitivities to them, unlike nuts. Sesame, pumpkin, flax, and chia are all rich in minerals, fatty acids, fiber, protein, B vitamins and other valuable nutrients. Plus, seeds of all types are an easy, plant-based way to get some quick, affordable nourishment.

#2 AVOCADOS. Some would say they’re expensive, but they’re delicious, full of fiber and healthy fats. And they go well with everything. And did you know that they actually contain more potassium than bananas? Great news for guac lovers!


#1 FERMENTED FOODS. They reign supreme in the healthiest foods kingdom. Foods like kraut, miso, yogurt, kombucha, and sourdough are overflowing with anti-inflammatory and probiotic benefits. Add to that their ease of digestability and no wonder these are #1.

Whether you’re trying to beat stress, stave off cancers, or support a healthy gut, you can’t go wrong with these 10 healthiest foods for 2019. Here’s to a very good year of very good eating!

Sources:
  •   www.care2.com
  •   www.tasteofhome.com
  •   www.walmart.com
  •   www.juicing-for-health.com
  •   www.meghantelpner.com
  •   www.health.harvard.edu

    Alice Osborne
    DVO Newsletter Contributor since 2006
    Email the author! alice@dvo.com


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