Sauerkraut and kimchi

Sauerkraut and kimchi
Getty Images

Fermented foods are gaining more attention in the nutrition world thanks to their positive effects on your gut microbiome. Sauerkraut and kimchi are both made from fermented cabbage, a food that’s naturally high in fibre and vitamins C and K. They’re also rich in glucosinolates, compounds that may help lower inflammation and potentially fight cancer. Says nutritionist and registered dietitian Michelle Loy: “I eat fermented foods every day because they contain probiotics, which promote digestive health and may have additional benefits like weight management and mental health.”

These are the best probiotics for weight loss.

Advertisement

Prunes

Prunes
Shutterstock

You may know that dried plums are great for keeping you regular, but nutritionists know there’s more to prunes. Dietitian Kara Golis says, “I eat a few prunes every morning. The potassium and magnesium in prunes support bone health, according to a 2017 study in the journal Nutrients. And unlike many dried fruits, prunes have a relatively low glycaemic index, meaning that they are digested and absorbed slowly by the body.” Try them as a healthier way to sweeten up your cereal, baked goods and smoothies.

Here are 11 surprising home remedies for constipation relief.

Extra virgin olive oil

Extra virgin olive oil
Getty Images

This key ingredient in the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet is a daily addition to registered dietitians’ meals. Nutritionist and registered dietitian Elena Paravantes Hargitt is one of them. “Apart from being a good source of monounsaturated fats, extra virgin olive oil contains numerous polyphenols and is associated with the prevention of several chronic diseases. It also increases the absorption of certain nutrients.”

Nutritionists won’t waste their money on these 12 organic foods.

Dark chocolate

Dark chocolate
Shutterstock

We all need some sweetness in our lives, and nutritionists sure do love their dark chocolate. Gram for gram, cocoa is one of the highest food sources of antioxidants. Plus, research suggests that having 30g of dark chocolate four times a week may help reduce blood pressure and improve blood vessel function.

Now, find out the 49 foods nutritionists try to never eat.

Sign up here to have Reader’s Digest’s favourite stories straight to your inbox.

Source: RD.com

Never miss a deal again - sign up now!

Connect with us: