The ten healthiest foods in the world

Check out the healthiest foods in the world, some even suggested by “food cure” enthusiast Jerome Rodale

mushrooms

With so many unhealthy food options available today, such as highly processed ones, it's hard to be healthy. But so you don't forget, we've separated a list of ten healthy foods to include on the menu. Some of them were suggested by Mr. Jerome Irving Rodale, the pioneer of organic food in the United States. He founded the Rodale Institute and published books on the relationship of these foods to good health.

Mr. Rodale lived from 1898 to 1971 and may not even have been a doctor, but he knew well how to reduce the need for consultations. Below is a list of the healthiest foods in the world. But remember that a healthy diet must balance complex carbohydrates, proteins, fiber, vitamins and minerals - that is, it cannot contain just these ten ingredients. This list gives just ten examples of healthy foods - to better understand how to eat healthily, consult a nutritionist you trust.

Coconut

Mr. Rodale explains

“A great source of carbohydrates and lipids, it is also a form of exercise for the teeth”, in addition, “the coconut palm does not need heavy doses of synthetic fertilizers”.

How to acquire

Both the whole coconut and its products bring many benefits. Coconut water is a great moisturizer and is rich in minerals, such as potassium, and is highly recommended after exercising. Coconut is very healthy, however, some of its derivatives, such as coconut oil, are controversial. To understand myths and truths about it, take a look at the article: "Coconut oil: benefits, what it is for and how to use it".

Cress

Mr. Rodale explains

“The watercress does not usually grow well with chemical fertilizers. It grows in running water and contains more iron than spinach.” Watercress is rich in antioxidants, is good for heart health, immunity, helps reduce cholesterol and prevents osteoporosis. To know the benefits of this healthy food in more detail, take a look at the article: "Benefits of watercress".

How to acquire

Nowadays, hydroponic watercress can already carry chemical fertilizers, but this practice is beginning to be avoided with organic agriculture. The best option is organic watercress, which does not use synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. To learn more about organic farming, take a look at the article: "What is organic farming?"

Tip

You can also use watercress to make a smoothie detoxifying.

Red fruits

Mr. Rodale explains

It is said that Mr. Rodale was a great connoisseur of red fruits, which are rich in anthocyanins, substances capable of providing an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effect, preventing glaucoma, protecting the heart and enhancing short-term memory.

How to acquire

You can find them in the frozen section of some supermarkets (but the fresher the more nutrient-rich), at organic markets or, with dedication, in your backyard.

  • Organic urban agriculture: understand why it's a good idea

Wild rice

Mr. Rodale explains

In fact, he wanted explanations. He always asked his readers to send information about wild rice, as he was fascinated by the food. Today it is known that it is a grain rich in protein, fiber and B-complex vitamins.

  • Easy and tasty leftover rice recipes

How to acquire

Be careful with the origin of wild rice from the supermarket, as some brands produce hybrids of the grass, not the “original”. Research them before purchasing.

Maple syrup

Mr. Rodale explains

"I strongly recommend that white sugar be dispensed with and completely replaced by maple syrup." See more tips for putting sugar aside in the article: "11 tips for a sugar-free diet".

How to acquire

Maple syrup is better known by its English name: maple syrup. It is extracted from maple trees, whose leaves are depicted on the Canadian flag. In Brazil, you can find it in grocery stores and supermarkets of large chains.

chestnuts and walnuts

Mr. Rodale explains

Chestnuts and walnuts have always been highly valued by Mr. Rodale because his trees grow in soil that is very rich in nutrients, passing various mineral salts to their seeds.

How to acquire

Organic food is always the best option.

mushrooms

Mr. Rodale explains

"Mushrooms should be grown in a land rich in organic matter," he said, adding, "and without any pesticides, because that would kill the spores necessary for the mushrooms to grow." In addition, they are rich in iron and protein and stimulate the immune system.

How to acquire

At the time Mr. Rodale lived, it was not possible to grow mushrooms with pesticides, but nowadays there are substances that kill insects without killing the mushroom spores. Run away from pesticides, prefer organic ones.

Algae

we explain

Well, this time, the explanation is not from Mr. Rodale, because, at that time, the reason why algae were believed to be healthy was just a theory, which today is known to be wrong. But it cannot be denied that algae are truly healthy foods. With current research, we see that they are rich sources of potassium, iodine and many other nutrients, as well as helping to prevent cancer and treat skin conditions. Learn more about the types of algae and their benefits in the article: "The incredible benefits of seaweed".

How to acquire

In addition to choosing which type of algae you like, pay attention to whether it is a transgenic product.

Quinoa

we explain

Quinoa: benefits, how to make it and what it is for Quinoa is a plant food that contains all the essential amino acids (to learn more about this topic, take a look at the article: "What are amino acids and what they are for"). Plus, it's rich in fiber, antioxidants and nutrients. Grain is easy to incorporate into the diet and gluten free.

  • What is gluten? Bad guy or good guy?

How to acquire

Quinoa can be purchased in bulk stores or cereal supermarkets. In the common market, quinoa is usually found in the health food section or grains such as beans.

Sauerkraut

we explain

Sauerkraut, which is nothing more than naturally fermented salted cabbage, is one of the healthiest probiotic foods in the world. In addition to being probiotic and contributing to the gut microbiota (organ responsible for 90% of the body's immune potential), it is rich in nutrients, fiber and vitamin C.

  • What are probiotic foods?

How to acquire

The best way to acquire healthy food is to harvest it from your backyard. But if you don't have cabbage in the backyard or aren't willing to make your own sauerkraut, you can get it ready-made in the pickled food section, like olives. But remember to opt for preservative-free options. Understand why in the article: "Conservatives: what they are, what types and dangers".


Adapted from MNN.


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