Story by Emilie Richardson-Dupuis
1. Popcorn: Of all the “junky” snack foods you could choose, popcorn is by far the healthiest. It’s a whole grain, which means it’s high in fiber, contains antioxidants, and is low in calories if you opt for a low or no-butter option.
2. Canned Fish: Canned fish like tuna is a healthy processed food because it’s high in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins. However, you shouldn’t eat it every day as it can contain mercury, which is harmful in high amounts.
3. Canned Beans: You may not think of them as such, but canned beans are a processed food. They’re a nutritional powerhouse containing protein, fiber, iron, potassium, and antioxidants without sacrificing convenience.
4. Tofu & Tempeh: Tofu and its fermented cousin, tempeh, are healthy and nutritious plant-based meat alternatives. They’re both low-calorie, low-fat sources of complete protein and have even been linked to improved cognitive function.
5. High-Fiber Breakfast Cereals: If you’re a morning cereal person, there are many healthier options than Froot Loops. Go for high-fiber varieties that contain little or no sugar. They can improve your digestion, heart health, and help you maintain a healthy weight.
6. Pickles: While pickles are high in sodium, they’re fermented, which means they contain probiotics that are good for your gut microbiome. They’re also low in calories and can help you manage your blood sugar.
7. Frozen Vegetables: Frozen vegetables are just as healthy, if not more so, than fresh vegetables, and are often cheaper and more convenient. The freezing process helps preserve nutrients for a longer time compared to if you leave fresh veggies in the fridge for a few days.
8. Dried Fruits: While dried fruits are more concentrated in sugar than fresh, they’re also morenutrient-densee and filling. They’re an excellent source of fiber, are high in antioxidants, and are packed with nutrients, but should be consumed in moderation as they’re also very sweet and high in calories.
9. Frozen Fruit: Just like with frozen vegetables, freezing fruit helps preserve its nutritional content, so it’s often even healthier than fresh. They’re also more cost-effective, convenient, and offer a way to enjoy your favorite fruits all year round.
10. Whole Grain Crackers: Whole grain crackers with a short and simple ingredients list make for a healthy, high-fiber snack. Ones that contain mostly just whole grains are rich in essential nutrients, are good for your heart, and help manage blood sugar.
Originally published at msn.com
