As we become more health-conscious around the globe, more and more of us are taking extra measures to do the right things. It can be easy to lose track of a diet or lose motivation for a fitness programme, though. It’s normal to have struggles along the way, but ultimately the end goal makes it all worthwhile.
Regular life can get the in the way of a more healthy and balanced lifestyle also. We’ve all been there. It’s understandable, but what you perhaps don’t realise is that the lunch you had that day or the dinner you’re about to eat that evening contains various health benefits.
Obviously, you can’t beat a healthy balanced diet alongside a fitness regime, but if you’re eating well, then you’re practically halfway there. It’s amazing how many people don’t realise how healthy they’re actually eating, too.
We’ve covered the health benefits of goats milk kefir, but there’s a variety of more common foods out there which are good for your health too. So, without further ado, here’s a look at some of the health benefits of a range of popular foods.
Edamame
Edamame are usually bought either shelled, still in the pod, frozen, or fresh, with all ways of consuming them producing a range of health benefits, including maintaining healthy blood pressure, aiding fertility, decreasing bone loss, and helping depression sufferers. If you want to buy frozen edamame in the UK, you can do so from Tuktuk Mart, an online marketplace.
Almonds
The health benefits of almonds have been well documented for a while now, but many people still aren’t aware of exactly what it is they do. A rich source of magnesium, copper, vitamin E and good quality protein, almonds also contain healthy unsaturated fatty acids. Everything almonds contain helps prevent cardiovascular diseases; they’re known to reduce the risk of cancer and help aid an all-round healthy and prolonged life.
Arugula
Many of us tuck into a tasty salad containing Arugula without even releasing it’s there, let alone knowing the health benefits of it. Like many leafy greens, it is excellent for us as it contains high nitrate levels which are proven to lower blood pressure and enhance all-round athletic performance. It is also said to lower the risk of cancer and helps prevent osteoporosis. Amazing, right?
Basil
Occasionally served as a garnish or tossed off a pizza, basil actually has a wide range of health benefits. It is packed full of calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron, as well as being rich in vitamin C, vitamin K and vitamin A. On top of all of that, basil is also linked with reducing inflammation and swelling, alongside being useful in treating the likes of arthritis and any inflammatory bowel diseases.
Bok choy
The cruciferous vegetable family is known to produce a range of health benefits, and Bok chow – alongside the likes of kale, broccoli and cauliflower – is a part of it. Bok choy contains loads of nutrients and it’s kind on the waistline too, with very little calories gained from eating it. Overall, to kickstart or maintain a healthy lifestyle, eating more bok choy is highly recommended.
Chickpeas
Another favourite for so many people but perhaps without realising the full health benefits of it, chickpeas are ideal for improving glucose levels, lipids, and even known for improving bone and heart strength. Chickpeas are popular with diabetes patients too as they help insulin levels. What powerful little balls of goodness, right?
