Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo

10 Foods You Are Not Eating But Should Be

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Elon chapter.

Here are 10 foods you are not eating, but should be!

 

Chia and/or Flax seeds

High in healthy omega-3 fats and fiber

Contains calcium, manganese and phosphorus

Reduces risk of cancer, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes

 

Cinnamon

Contains fiber, calcium, iron, manganese

Speeds up your metabolism

Regulates blood sugar, fights infections, reduces harmful cholesterol

Greek Yogurt

Excellent source of calcium, potassium, protein, zinc, and vitamins B6 & B12

Contains probiotic cultures

Lower in lactose and has twice the protein content of regular yogurt

 

Salmon

High in omega-3 fatty acid content (4 ounces of salmon to contain at least 2 grams of omega-3 fats)

Rich in other properties, such as vitamin D and selenium

Decreases the risk of macular degeneration

Good source of vitamin D and tryptophan

Avocados

Provide all 18 essential amino acids for the body create a complete protein

Contains fiber making the protein even easier to digest

Fat content (oleic acid) helps cardiovascular health

Rich in Vitamins A, C, E, K, and B6 as well as potassium

 

Spinach

High in antioxidants – vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, manganese, zinc and selenium

Aids in digestion, prevents constipation, maintains low blood sugar, and curbs overeating

Combats the onset of osteoporosis, atherosclerosis and high blood pressure.

Broccoli

Omega 3 fatty acids

Concentrated source of vitamin C and flavonoids that help the body recycle Vitamin C

Contains the carotenoids lutein, zeaxanthin and beta-carotene

High in fiber

1 cup of broccoli has as much protein as a cup of corn or rice but half the calories!

 

Blueberries (any berries, really)

Blueberries have more antioxidants than any other fresh fruits or veggies

Believed to prevent cancer and soften skin

Contains flavonoids that reduce risk of age-related memory loss

Oatmeal

A cup is only 130 calories!

High protein and fiber content which makes you feel full longer

Reduces hunger cravings

 

Watermelon

Low in calories

Full of vitamins C, A, potassium, and lycopene.

High in water which aids the other fluid needs of the body 

I am a senior Strategic Communications major and Painting minor and Elon University.