Your diet is sure to get a healthy boost with these five health foods which are your best bets for eating well because they meet at least three of the following criteria -

They are excellent source of fiber, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients They are high in phytonutrients and antioxidant compounds, such as vitamins A and E and beta carotene They may help reduce risk of heart disease and other health conditions They are easily available

Wheat germ - It is that part of the grain that's responsible for the development and growth of the new plant sprout and although it is only a small part, the germ contains many nutrients. An excellent source of thiamin and a good source of folate, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc, wheat germ also contains protein, fiber and some fat. You can sprinkle it on your hot or cold cereal.

Sweet Potatoes - With their deep orange-yellow color, sweet potatoes are high in the antioxidant beta carotene which is converted to vitamin A in your body. It helps slowing down the aging process and reduce the risk of some cancers. In addition to being an excellent source of vitamins A and C, sweet potatoes are also a good source of fiber, vitamin B-6 and potassium. And like all vegetables, they're fat-free and relatively low in calories with one-half of a large sweet potato having just 81 calories.

Spinach - High in vitamins A and C and folate, it's also a good source of magnesium. The plant compounds in spinach may boost your immune system while the carotenoids found in spinach — beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin are protective against age-related vision diseases, such as macular degeneration and night blindness, as well as heart disease and certain cancers.

Source: Times of India

BDST: 1629 HRS, APR- 12, 2016
Edited by:  Sharmina Islam, Lifestyle Editor