Eating healthy is often easier said than done, especially when some of the most nutritious foods are the ones people tend to avoid. Foods that are packed with nutrients and vitamins like Brussels sprouts and collard greens are frequently left out of our diets simply because we don’t like them. Whether you steer clear of these foods because of their taste, texture, or unfamiliarity, you’re missing out on a variety of significant health benefits. Here are 18 healthy foods that most people don’t want to eat.
Lentils
According to Verywell Health, “the edible seed of a lentil contains about 60% carbohydrates and 25% protein.” This alternative source of protein is also rich in fiber, which helps with digestion and muscle repair, as well as iron and folate which are essential for energy and blood cell production. Lentils are also low in fat and calories, making them a good healthy choice of food for people looking to lose weight.
Brussels Sprouts
Packed full of vitamins C and K, Brussels sprouts support your immune system and improve the health of your bones. Brussels sprouts also contain antioxidants that combat inflammation, oxidative stress, and cell damage, and they’re high in fiber too, which is beneficial for your gut health and regularity. While this vegetable might not taste the best and many people might not enjoy it, it’s extremely good for you in many different ways!
Seaweed
Seaweed doesn’t usually look very appetizing, and the taste can leave much to be desired too! However, if you can get past these obstacles, the health benefits you can get from seaweed are significant. Seaweed is a great source of vitamins A, C, E, and K and greatly contributes to your overall health. It also contains iodine which is vital for thyroid function and metabolism, and its antioxidants help protect against cell damage.
Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are a great addition to your diet, as they’re loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which support the health of your brain and heart. These seeds are also high in fiber, so they can benefit your digestion and help you maintain a healthy weight too. On top of this, they’re a good source of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Try adding chia seeds to your oatmeal or smoothies to reap the rewards of this healthy food.
Nutritional Yeast
While it may not sound very tasty, the flavor of nutritional yeast is often compared to cheese and described as cheesy, nutty, and savory. If you can get past its unnatural appearance, nutritional yeast can provide many health benefits. It’s rich in B vitamins and antioxidants, so it can boost your energy levels and brain function and improve your immune system. It’s also a complete protein, which means it provides all nine essential amino acids.
Sardines
People either love or hate sardines, but regardless of whether you find them tasty or disgusting, there’s no denying these little fish have great benefits for your heart, bones, and muscles. The omega-3 fatty acids in sardines encourage good heart health, and their calcium and vitamin D content support the health of your bones. They’re also a good source of protein, which is vital for muscle growth and repair.
Collard Greens
The NPR says that “we’re living at a time when more than 80 percent of Americans fail to eat the recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables.” Vegetables like collard greens are avoided because people don’t enjoy eating them, but this means many people are missing out on the essential nutrients they provide. Collard greens are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, which enhance vision and immune health, and they also contain glucosinolates that can reduce the risk of cancer!
Kimchi
A traditional Korean dish made of fermented vegetables, kimchi isn’t too popular with most Americans. This fermented food is rich in probiotics that promote a healthy gut, so it might be a good idea to give this strange food a chance! Kimchi also supports your immune system with its high content of vitamins A and C, and it contains beneficial bacteria that assist digestion and help your body absorb nutrients.
Tahini
Tahini is a butter or paste that’s made from ground sesame seeds and is typically used as a dip, spread, or condiment. These sesame seeds provide a lot of healthy fats and protein that are good for our bodies. Tahini is also high in things like calcium and magnesium which encourage good bone health. The antioxidants in tahini help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress that leads to cell damage and disease.
Hemp Seeds
Containing a high amount of protein as well as all nine essential amino acids, hemp seeds are a nutritional powerhouse! These seeds are rich in omega-3 and omega-3 fatty acids and are also high in fiber. You can eat hemp seeds in many ways, for example, by mixing them into burgers and meatballs or sprinkling them over cereal, fruit, or yogurt. Why not give it a go and see if you like it?
Liver
Many of us might find the thought of eating liver disturbing, but this gross food is actually really healthy! Eating liver can help prevent anemia, as it’s extremely rich in iron and vitamin B12. Liver is also high in vitamin A, which helps support the health of your eyes and immune system. As well as all this, it contains a variety of other essential nutrients, including folate and zinc.
Miso
Miso is another food that harnesses the power and gut health benefits of fermented foods. It’s a paste that’s made from fermented soybeans, salt, and a type of mold called koji. It might not sound very delicious, but miso can greatly benefit your overall health, as it’s a good source of vitamins B, E, and K. It also contains antioxidants that can help to reduce inflammation in your body.
Beets
Beets are high in nitrates, which improve blood flow and lower blood pressure, as well as fiber that helps digestion and gut health. This vegetable also contains pigments called betalains that have anti-inflammatory properties. Forbes reports that “antioxidants found in beets may help reduce oxidative stress and damage associated with several diseases, including cancer, neurodegeneration and diabetes.” Beets might turn your pee red, but it’s worth it!
Tofu
Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein and a great option for vegetarians and vegans. Protein is needed for muscle growth and repair, and tofu is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy substitute for meat. This meat substitute also contains plant compounds called isoflavones that can have health benefits for menopause, breast cancer, and diabetes and may reduce the risk of heart disease too.
Sprouts
Sprouts are the shoots from germinated seeds, grains, or legumes. Good for your health in many ways, sprouts are full of vitamins and minerals. They contain enzymes that can aid digestion and help nutrients absorb into your body. Sprouts are high in vitamins C and K too and support your immune system. These young plants are also another example of a food that contains antioxidants that protect against cell damage.
Tempeh
Good for your gut, bones, muscles, and overall well-being, tempeh is a great addition to a balanced diet. Tempeh is a plant-based protein source that’s made from fermented soybeans. It might not look or sound particularly appetizing, but it’s full of probiotics that keep your gut healthy! Tempeh is also rich in fiber, which helps your digestion and muscle growth, and it contains isoflavones that have anti-inflammatory effects.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms are another food that you either love or hate, and many people hate them! However, you can’t ignore the health benefits that mushrooms can provide. They’re rich in B vitamins, which help you produce energy and keep your brain healthy. Mushrooms also contain an essential mineral called selenium and other antioxidants that encourage the healthy functioning of your immune system. Try hiding mushrooms in casseroles or sauces to get more of the nutrients and less of the taste!
Quinoa
Quinoa is one more example of a complete protein, providing all nine essential amino acids. Quinoa is a gluten-free seed that can be eaten as a side dish, in salads, or as a base for protein-rich meals. It’s high in fiber, so it can help with digestion and maintaining blood sugar levels, and it’s also full of magnesium, which supports good muscle and nerve function. If you’ve never eaten quinoa before, give it a try!
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