Most diets that you find nowadays are centered around eliminating a certain food group. And while a lot of these diets like to make certain food groups the enemy, there are certain foods that should never be eliminated from anyone’s diet (unless of course there is a medical reason to do so.
Here are my top 5 foods that should be eaten no matter what diet you are following.
Number 1: Salmon
Salmon is my number one food that should be consumed no matter what diet you are following. Salmon is one of the top sources of Omega-3, fatty acids. According to the American Heart Association, “Omega-3 fatty acids benefit the heart of healthy people, and those at high risk of — or who have — cardiovascular disease. Research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids decrease the risk of arrhythmias (abnormal heartbeats), which can lead to sudden death. Omega-3 fatty acids also decrease triglyceride levels, the slow growth rate of atherosclerotic plaque, and lower blood pressure (slightly).” Salmon is also a very high source of protein, which is the building block of building and sustaining muscle.
Number 2: Leafy Greens
Spinach, kale, chard, and dandelion greens are all examples of leafy greens, which ranks number 2 on my top 5 foods that should be consumed no matter what diet you are following. Leafy greens are loaded with important vitamins and minerals such as vitamins C, A, K, and iron. They are a nonstarchy vegetable, which makes them an ideal food for any low carb diets. The combination of their absolute health benefits, along with their low calories and nonstarchy property ranks them at the top of the list for foods that should not be eliminated out of any diet.
Number 3: Avocado
Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fat (the healthy fat), which is an important piece of cardiovascular health. They are also very high in fiber which benefits in making you feel fuller, longer, and helps you keep a healthy GI. Avocados make for a healthy add on to any salad or meal. If you are following a diet that calls for you to eliminate them, think twice before following it any longer.
Number 4: Walnuts
Another food that is rich in omega-3s and fiber are walnuts. People who regularly consume nuts are less likely to gain weight, become overweight, and/or obese. Walnuts are one of the top nuts in the category. They are highly rich in magnesium, which is a mineral that plays a key role in many different chemical reactions in the body. Add a handful of walnuts to your yogurt or oatmeal, and reap the benefits of one the healthiest nuts available.
Number 5: Berries
A lot of diets require you to cut out fruits because of their higher levels of sugar, however, berries such as blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, and raspberries should be left off that list. These fruits have a lower amount of sugar compared to other fruit, and in moderation can be a nice source of natural sugar. Berries are rich in polyphenols, which have shown to fight diseases such as cancer and heart disease. If you are going to eliminate fruit for its sugar levels, berries should be viewed as an approved fruit to keep on the list.
