Starchy foods in your diet

Nuts and seeds

Although high in unsaturated fat and calories, nuts and seeds may help lower the riskTrusted Source of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other health issues. They are a satisfying snack that could help those managing their weight by helping them feel more satiated after eating them.

They also require almost no preparation, so they’re easy to add to your routine. They can also add texture to salads and other dishes.

However, they are not suitable for people with a nut allergy.

11. Almonds

Almonds are a popular nut that contains vitamin E, antioxidants, magnesium, and fiber. A 2021 reviewTrusted Source found that almonds may contribute to weight loss, support the gut microbiota, improve thinking, manage heart rate when a person is under stress, and prevent skin aging.

12. Chia seeds

Chia seeds are a nutrient-dense addition to the diet. A single ounce (28 grams) provides 9.75 gramsTrusted Source of fiber and significant amounts of magnesium, manganese, calcium, and various other nutrients.

13. Coconuts

Coconuts provide fiber and fatty acids called medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).

14. Macadamia nuts

Macadamia nuts are tasty and higher in monounsaturated fats and lower in omega-6 fatty acids than most other nuts.

15. Walnuts

Walnuts are highly nutritious and rich in fiber and various vitamins and minerals. Pair them with feta cheese to dress a salad.

16. Brazil nuts

Brazil nuts are nutrient-rich and have a smooth, buttery texture. The nutrients they contain support thyroid function and are a good source of the mineral selenium.

17–26: Vegetables

Calorie for calorie, vegetables are among the most concentrated sources of nutrients. Many of these varied nutrients also give vegetables their colors, so eating a wide variety of vegetables in different colors is a good way to ensure you get a diverse range of nutrients.

17. Asparagus

Asparagus is a popular vegetable that is low in both carbs and calories and rich in vitamin K.

18. Bell peppers

Bell peppers come in several colors, including red, yellow, and green. They’re crunchy and sweet and are a great source of antioxidants and vitamin C.

19. Broccoli

Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that tastes great both raw and cooked. It’s an excellent source of fiber and vitamins C and K and contains a decent amount of protein compared with other vegetables.

20. Carrots

Carrots are a popular root vegetable. They’re sweet, crunchy, and loaded with nutrients such as fiber and vitamin K. They’re also high in carotene antioxidants, which have numerous benefits.

Put a few carrot sticks in your lunchbox or use them to eat guacamole and other dips.

21. Cauliflower

Cauliflower is a very versatile cruciferous vegetable. You can add it to curries, roast it with olive oil, or use it raw in salads or for dipping.

22. Cucumber

Cucumbers make a refreshing snack. They are low in both carbs and calories, consisting mostly of water. They also contain small amounts of vitamin K and other nutrients.

23. Garlic

Garlic is a healthy and tasty addition to salads and cooked savory dishes. It contains allicin, which has antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. Its nutrients may also reduce the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease.

24. Kale

Kale is high in fiber, vitamins C and K, and other nutrients. It adds a satisfying crunch to salads and other dishes. You can also add it to stir-fries or bake it in the oven to make crunchy kale chips.

25. Onions

Onions have a strong flavor and are found in many recipes. They contain a number of bioactive compounds believed to have health benefits.

26. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are usually categorized as a vegetable, although they are technically a fruit. They are tasty and provide nutrients such as potassium and vitamin C. For a bit of fun and extra flavor, try growing tomatoes on your windowsill.

More healthy vegetables

Other vegetables worth mentioning are artichokes, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, celery, eggplant, leeks, lettuce, mushrooms, radishes, squash, Swiss chard, collard greens, turnips, and zucchini.

27–32: Fish and seafood

Fish and other seafood can be healthy and nutritious. They’re rich in omega-3 fatty acids and iodine.

Research suggestsTrusted Source that eating oily fish can boost a person’s heart and brain health.

27. Salmon

Salmon is an oily fish that is tasty and high in nutrients, including protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It also contains some vitamin D.

28. Sardines

Sardines are small, oily, and highly nutritious fish. They provide many nutrients, including calcium and vitamin D.

29. Shellfish

Shellfish are nutrient-dense and make a tasty light meal. Edible shellfish include clams, mollusks, and oysters. Be sure to get them from a reputable source to ensure they are fresh and toxin-free.

30. Shrimp

Shrimp is a type of crustacean related to crabs and lobsters. It tends to be low in fat and calories but high in protein. It also provides zinc.

31. Trout

Trout is another type of delicious freshwater fish, similar to salmon.