Food

Wine is the nectar of the gods. It is one of the oldest and the most precious alcohol drinks known to mankind. I think nothing can be better than enjoying a glass of wine after a tough day. This wonderful beverage will widen your blood vessels and help relax your body. Many people have a habit to consume wine every day. It fills their body with positive life energy and provides life contentment. My friends always say that a glass of wine every day can keep doctor away. I couldn’t believe, but now I realize that wine consumption has a great number of benefits for both physical and emotional well-being. Drinking wine in moderation can boost your immunity and help you lose weight. Moreover, it preserves your memory and makes you more cheerful. This article will change your attitude toward wine. You’ll get to know how wine can make your life better. Just remember, moderation is the key here.

1. It can improve your digestion

Most people believe that drinking wine is the best relaxing way to develop and maintain a healthy gut balance, because it has a big number of good gut bacteria. It may help your body digest food and prevent you from various diseases, since there’s a direct link between digestive and immune system. Moreover, many researchers concluded that red wine consumption is extremely effective in decreasing pathogenic bacteria in the gut. Wine is rich in B-vitamins, beneficial enzymes and omega three fatty acids. If you are still hesitating what beverage to choose during your meal, then try to drink a glass of red wine.

2. Wine is a source of youth

Many wise people believe that the fountain of youth is filled with red wine, because there’s an anti-aging compound that plays a great role in preventing cell-aging. People who drink wine have more chances to live a longer life than those who prefer to drink beer or other kinds of alcohol. Wine includes resveratrol that stimulates different positive processes and chemical reactions in your body. Numerous useful substances found in wines can rejuvenate your body by activating chemicals that protect against age-related diseases. There’s no need to look for new and sophisticated methods to look younger if you can consume wine with pleasure, but in moderation.

3. It’s high in antioxidants

According to the research, wine contains powerful antioxidants and essential vitamins. Red wines are more useful since they have the largest amount of antioxidants. If you don’t drink alcohol, you may receive a dose of these healthy substances by drinking a grape juice, which has similar antioxidant content. A glass of wine a day will help you relax your blood vessels and strengthen your cardiovascular health.

4. It heals your heart and improves overall health

Red wine is good for your heart since its healing qualities relax and stimulate your cardiovascular system. Moderation is a very important point if you decide to drink red wine daily. Be careful, because big amounts of alcohol can be harmful to your health. Moderate drinkers have a wonderful memory and productivity of their mental function. Furthermore, moderate consumption of wine prevents blood-sugar trouble and cuts the risk of colon cancer. Plus, it makes you emotionally balanced and happy.

5. It helps you enjoy the moments of appreciation

I think that wine is for savoring, not gulping. It can help you make a pause in your busy life and gather the circle of your best friends. It will break fears and help you socialize with people around you. Those who cannot drink wine should know an interesting thing. Scientists have claimed that thinking about a glass of wine can help you relax. It means that your thoughts can change your behaviors according to what you expect. The power of positive thinking can make miracles.

6. Wine is a wonderful alcoholic drink

Every time I drink wine, I feel the connection to the land and history of wine. I respect history and people who had dedicated their lives to the production of this wonder of nature. I have always dreamt to visit a wine country and learn something about the ancient process of wine production. Nothing can be better than time spent with your friends somewhere in the middle of the wine country. It’s a great pleasure to enjoy the wine on the land where it’s grown and feel the warmth of the sun that throws light on the grapes.

7. It’s a great fun

When I drink wine I always feel fine. Wine has always been a symbol of joy and creativity. It releases endorphins which are the hormones of happiness. But you should be careful while drinking and having fun, if you don’t want to suffer from a hangover next day. My favorite author Ernest Hemingway once noticed a wonderful thing about wine, “Wine is one of the most civilized things in the world and the most natural things of the world that has been brought to the greatest perfection, and it offers a greater range for enjoyment and appreciation than, possibly any other purely sensory thing.”
Wine is a majestic thing that can fill your life with joy, positivity, new acquaintances and creativity. Furthermore, it can improve both your physical and mental health. You should consume wine in moderation, if you don’t want to suffer from alcohol addiction, anxiety and depression. Do you consume wine on a regular basis? What other interesting benefits of wine do you know?

Food

If you’re trying to drop weight, it doesn’t mean that you should avoid eating bread. Thankfully, there are a few healthy and delicious types of bread for weight loss. Whether it is breakfast, lunch or dinner, bread complements any meal and it makes it harder to avoid eating bread. These types of bread are not only good for people who are trying to lose weight, but also for those who are trying to eat healthier. It’s time to switch to the healthier types of bread in order to shed pounds and get in the best shape of your life.

1. Flaxseed bread

Have you ever tried flaxseed bread? It’s a fantastic bread for weight loss and it’s an excellent source of manganese, potassium and selenium. Flaxseed bread also contains essential fatty acids, dietary fiber, and phytoestrogens that will help boost your health and get your dream body. Flaxseed bread will fuel your body with only healthy things.

2. Rye bread

Rye bread is definitely one of the healthiest types of bread that you can eat daily without worrying about calories. Rye bread is absolutely wheat-free, and it can help relieve discomfort and bloating. Rye bread contains 20% fewer calories and 4 times the fiber than regular white bread. Consuming rye bread will keep you fuller longer without adding calories.

3. Oat bread

If you want to reduce you carbohydrate intake and you watch your fat content, opt for oat bread instead of regular white bread. Oat bread is a wonderful source of good carbohydrates that are much slower to digest and that make you feel fuller for a longer period of time.

4. Ezekiel bread

Another healthy type of bread for weight loss is Ezekiel bread, which consists of barley, wheat, lentils, beans, spelt and millet. Ezekiel bread is high in protein and contains 18 amino acids. It has increased digestibility, increased absorption of minerals and many amazing benefits. Moreover, Ezekiel bread doesn’t contain added sugar.

5. Whole-wheat pita bread

Whole-wheat pita bread is the healthiest type of pita bread since it’s made with whole grains and contains lots of vitamins and minerals. Whole-wheat pita bread boasts a few powerful health benefits – it helps reduce your risk of cholesterol and high blood sugar. Whole-wheat pita bread contains less calories than whole wheat bread since you usually use one piece of pita bread instead of 2 pieces of regular bread to make your healthy sandwich.

6. Whole-wheat bread

Although whole-wheat bread is a healthy type of bread you can eat daily, it can be difficult to find the right whole-wheat bread. Just because some companies label their breads with ‘wheat flour’ and ‘wheat’ doesn’t necessarily mean that you buy the whole wheat bread. Before buying any whole-wheat bread, make sure you read the ingredient list.

7. Brown rice bread

Brown rice bread is also perfect for weight loss. It keeps you full, energetic, and it’s low in calories and sugar. Try eating brown rice bread with butter and fresh vegetables or low fat cheese. If you stick to a very strict diet, consider having steamed or boiled vegetables with a few pieces of brown rice bread.

8. Gluten-free bread

Even though a gluten-free bread is a must for people who stick to a gluten-free diet, it’s also perfect for those who are trying to lose weight or simply want to eat healthier. Gluten-free breads are healthier than the regular white breadі, but many of them are processed so make sure you buy a whole grain gluten-free bread.

Giving up bread can be a painful process for both you and your body, so don’t exclude bread from your diet. Consider eating some of these healthy and delicious types of bread for weight loss to feel better and look better. What are your favorite types of bread?

Food

Sweet potatoes are a delicious treat that has a plethora of health benefits. Sweet potatoes come in many shapes and colors and they are widely grown and consumed throughout the world. Sweet potatoes are nutritional powerhouses – they’re packed with essential vitamins and minerals. If you don’t like sweet potatoes, read on to find out a few fantastic reasons to eat sweet potatoes. Who knows, maybe you’ll change your mind and want to start eating them more often.

1. Sweet potatoes are high in antioxidants

Sweet potatoes are plentiful in potent antioxidants. The anthocyanin in the purple sweet potatoes is one of the best antioxidants that sweet potatoes contain, and the beta carotene in the orange variety is another powerful antioxidant. Anthocyanin has anti-inflammatory properties and helps ward off many diseases. This is one of the undeniable reasons to eat sweet potatoes more often.

2. Sweet potatoes are high in manganese

One medium sweet potato has 28 percent of your daily requirement of manganese, an important mineral that helps the body metabolize carbs and keeps you feeling energized longer. Manganese helps the body absorb other essential nutrients, and it helps keep your bones strong and healthy. Consuming sweet potatoes can help prevent manganese deficiency.

3. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta carotene

As I mentioned above, sweet potatoes are rich in beta carotene. One medium sweet potato contains more than 200 percent of your daily requirement of beta carotene. Perhaps you know that beta carotene is a crucial nutrient that your body converts into more important vitamin A, which keeps your eyes healthy and helps boost your immune system naturally.

4. Sweet potatoes contain quercetin

Sweet potatoes contain many important nutrients, including quercetin. Quercetin is a major dietary flavonoid which is incredibly healthy and has many wonderful benefits. It helps lower LDL cholesterol and reduce inflammation. Moreover, it acts as a natural antihistamine that can help combat allergies, and can help people who suffer from seasonal or chronic allergies.

5. Sweet potatoes help control blood sugar

Even though sweet potatoes contain carbohydrates, they can help manage blood sugar levels. Since sweet potatoes increase blood levels of adiponectin, they’re able to modify insulin metabolism that helps control blood sugar levels. Sweet potatoes are also rich in fiber, which means they slow the release of glucose into the bloodstream and can help prevent blood sugar spikes.

6. Sweet potatoes are good for your heart

Sweet potatoes are a fantastic source of potassium and vitamin B6 – two essential nutrients that are good for your heart. Potassium helps prevent high blood pressure and vitamin B6 helps break down homocysteine that can cause the hardening of the arteries and lead to cardiovascular disease. When you consume sweet potatoes, you get both potassium and vitamin B6, which are so essential for your heart.

7. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin C

When it comes to vitamin C, we often think of citrus fruits first. However, sweet potatoes are also high in vitamin C. A medium sweet potato contains about 40 percent of your daily requirement of vitamin C. It helps the body produce collagen that keeps your joints and skin healthy. Plus, it can help you cope with stress better.

8. Sweet potatoes contain Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for your immune system and overall health. It plays a vital role in your energy levels, helps improve your mood and build healthy bones. It also great for your heart, skin, and teeth. Eating sweet potato more often, not just on Thanksgiving, can help you avoid a vitamin D deficiency.

Sweet potatoes are an amazing food with a lot of healthy benefits. Incorporating this food into your healthy eating plan is an easy way to get the essential nutrients sweet potatoes provide. What are your favorite ways to consume sweet potatoes? Do you know some other reasons to eat more sweet potatoes?

Food

When it comes to the delicious foods to make in a blender, it’s easy to stuck in a rut. While those healthy smoothies and tasty shakes are incredible, your blender is perfect for a great number of other healthy and delicious dishes. Just a little creativity and a few ingredients, and you will make a great variety of savory meals in a jiff. Here are a few super delicious foods you can try to make in your blender.

1. Vegan ice cream

If you are vegan, you may look for ways to make a non-dairy ice cream alternative. The great news is, you can make your ice cream in your blender. People with dairy allergies and vegans blend up frozen bananas to get a rich and creamy non-diary ice cream. Even if you are not vegan, give it a try. You will like it, I promise!

2. Guacamole

Latin cuisine wouldn’t be complete without guacamole. It’s so easy to make a delicious, creamy guacamole in a blender. Guacamole is an excellent source of healthy fat, so why not add it to your eating plan? Just blend half of the guacamole, and then mix in some fresh chunks of avocado and enjoy!

3. Salad dressings

Are you still purchasing jarred or bottled salad dressings? Kick this habit! Store bought salad dressings are loaded with preservatives and refined oils, and they are among the most processed foods to consume. Start making your own salad dressings in a blender and you will see and feel the difference. There are so many incredible recipes online that you will never get bored.

4. Hummus

One of the most popular and delicious foods you can eat these days is definitely hummus. Hummus makes a healthy snack for adults and children, and it’s an easy way to incorporate more veggies into your snack time. Grab your blender and start blending up chickpeas, olive oil, lemon juice, and a little tahini. You will have a delicious, homemade hummus in a jiff!

5. Pureed soups

One of the most delicious foods that you can make in your blender is a pureed soup. After a hard day at work all you want to do is to relax and eat some comfort food. I’m sure you don’t want to spend the whole evening cooking something for dinner, but you do want to eat something healthy and nutritious. Use your blender to make pureed vegetable soups; from roasted red pepper and carrot to cream of mushroom, there are plenty of healthy pureed soup recipes to try.

6. Salsa

Just like salad dressings, store bought jarred and bottled salsas usually contain preservatives, refined oils, and MSG, a well-known hunger-inducing chemical. Start making your own healthy salsa instead. Simply blend up tomatoes, onions, some lime juice, a little cilantro, and some spicy peppers if you like, and ta-da! You’ve just made a much healthier salsa at home!

7. Tomato sauce

Jarred and canned tomato sauces are high in refined oils and sugar. Avoid consuming the artificial, diabetes-inducing ingredients and try making your own homemade tomato sauce. Blend up some fresh tomatoes, basil and garlic to get a simple yet tasty sauce that you can use in your favorite meals.

8. Pancakes

You can make your pancakes quicker if you use your blender. Blend up pancake batter with banana, blueberries, oats, or pumpkin, and pour right from your blender into your skillet. Pancakes make a healthy breakfast, if cooked correctly.

9. Homemade nut butters

Have you ever tried a homemade nut butter? I always make a homemade peanut butter since it’s much healthier and tastier. Most store bought nut butters are packed with sugar, sodium, oils and preservatives. Make your own nut butter instead. With so many easy recipes available online, you will certainly find the nut butter your family will love.

10. Coconut butter

Coconut butter boasts numerous health benefits, but it can be very expensive. So if you are on a tight budget, consider making your own coconut butter with dried coconut. Many people use coconut butter as a spread for toasts or on sandwiches, while others use it as a moisturizer. Although it may take a bit of blending time, it’s not expensive.

11. Homemade baby food

If you have a baby, stop buying store-bought baby food. Make your own instead. Making your own baby food is not as difficult as you might think. Sweet potato, green beans, pumpkin, apples, blueberries, bananas, strawberries, peas are all wonderful ingredients for homemade baby food.
While your blender is perfect for making smoothies and shakes, you can also make a great number of other healthy and delicious foods. What’s your favorite food to make in your blender? Share your thoughts and recipes with us, please.

Food

8 Essential Nutrients for a Better Night’s Sleep

Did you know that certain nutrients can help you sleep better at night and be more productive and energetic during your waking hours? Emotional issues such as stress and anxiety can prevent you from sleeping properly and can lead to insomnia. To avoid it, consider adding some delicious foods rich with these seven essential nutrients to your daily diet to fall asleep faster and sleep better at night. They work like a charm!

1. Magnesium

Magnesium boasts numerous relaxing properties that can help you fall asleep the moment you hit the sack. Magnesium lowers anxiety, relieves headaches, reduces high blood pressure, and can even relieve PMS. While a magnesium 400 milligram supplement can help (make sure you consult your doctor before taking any supplement), eating magnesium-rich foods is more effective. Seeds, nuts, carrots, sweet potatoes, leafy greens, fish, whole grains, dark chocolate, kiwi fruits and bananas are all rich in magnesium.

2. Potassium

Potassium is an essential electrolyte needed to maintain a proper water balance in your body. This nutrient helps reduce your blood pressure and promotes a good night’s sleep. Consider eating potassium-rich foods such as seeds, nuts, fruit, dried fruit, yogurt, cucumbers, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, avocados, leafy greens, celery, oats, and fish.

3. Vitamin B6

One of the most essential nutrients for a better night’s sleep is definitely Vitamin B6. This nurient helps fight stress and relax your nervous system. Some of the best sources of Vitamin B6 are bananas, yogurt, cashews, peanut butter, almonds, avocados, fish, tomatoes, spinach, sweet potatoes, seaweed, oats, and eggs.

4. Calcium

Calcium is a fantastic nutrient that will bring instant relaxing properties to your body and will help you sleep better. Calcium lowers blood sugar, blood pressure, and reduces anxiety. Leafy greens, organic yogurt and kefir, almond milk, almonds, chia seeds, and broccoli are all excellent sources of calcium.

5. Omega 3 fatty acids

Perhaps you’ve heard about the numerous health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids help combat stress, relieve inflammation, promote a great sense of relaxation in your body, and improve your sleep. Chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, hemp, walnuts, halibut, salmon, flax, and fortified eggs are some of the highest sources of omega 3 fatty acids.

6. Tryptophan

Tryptophan can also help you sleep better at night. It’s a precursor to serotonin that calms your nervous system, induces a peaceful state and sleep. Tryptophan is found in turkey, bananas, chicken, eggs, sweet potatoes, chia, hemp, pumpkin seeds, almonds, yogurt, and leafy greens.

7. Protein

Protein is rich in amino acids and it reduces the stress hormone cortisol and improves sleep quality. Moreover, protein reduces insulin, the hormone that raises blood sugar, causing excess cortisol. Lean meats, spirulina, eggs, beans, oats, seeds, nuts, quinoa, nonfat kefir and yogurt, leafy greens, seafood and whey protein are among the best sources of protein.

8. Iron

Last but not least essential nutrient for a better night’s sleep is iron. Since deficiency of iron can cause fatigue and insomnia, make sure you incorporate iron-rich foods into your daily diet. Some of the best sources of iron include: broccoli, red meat, beans, kidney, and liver.

Food Health and Fitness

Many people think eating healthy is hard and not satisfying to their taste buds. However, it’s not as difficult as you might think. There are many wonderful benefits of healthy eating. Most of these benefits you will feel once you start eating healthier, while other benefits you will notice in the years to come. Even in your elder years, consuming healthy foods can help you be healthier and live longer. Whether you are in your 20s or 50s, check out 7 undeniable reasons to start eating healthier.

1. Lower cholesterol and blood pressure

High blood pressure and high cholesterol levels are among the leading causes of heart attack in the world. When you stick to a diet high in animal fats and salt, it can make you gain those pounds and can also affect your health. Start eating healthier today to prevent the damaging inflammation from high cholesterol and hypertension that promotes poor health and premature aging.

2. Clear skin

If you suffer from acne, start eating healthier today to have clearer and brighter skin tomorrow. Make some lasting changes to your diet and you can throw away those heavy concealers and foundations. When you eat healthy food, your skin will radiate a natural, healthy glow and you will look gorgeous without makeup.

3. High energy levels

Nowadays many people complain about low energy levels and chronic fatigue. One of the causes of low energy levels is a poor diet. If you are always tired and sleepy, no matter how much sleep you get, start eating healthier to boost you energy levels and feel better. When you have a lot of energy, you are more productive, which means you can accomplish more tasks throughout the day.

4. Better heart health

Another reason to start eating healthier is to improve your heart health. A study shows that the most effective way to treat most chronic diseases including heart disease is through prevention. So make sure your diet is high in whole grains, vegetables, and fruits, and low in sugar, salt and saturated fat.

5. Long life

Everyone wants to live a longer life, but not everyone knows that their diet can greatly affect their longevity. Start eating healthier today to live a much longer life and see your grandchildren and great grandchildren grow up. Trust me, the little healthy food choices you make daily can have a huge impact on your longevity over time.

6. Healthy weight

A healthy weight is one of the most common reasons many people begin eating healthier these days. A diet high in whole foods and low in processed and junk foods is certainly going to lead to a healthier weight. When you are closer to a normal weight, you will have fewer health issues and a lower risk of diabetes and heart disease. Consuming more vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins daily will help you achieve and keep your perfect weight and feel much better about yourself.

7. Sleek and toned body

While a sleek and toned body depends on the types of workouts you perform daily, your diet plays a huge role as well. Consuming the right amounts of healthy fats, protein and carbs can even play a more crucial role than what workouts you do each day. If you want a toned body, consider eating healthier starting today.
In fact, there are many more crucial reasons to eat healthier. Even if you don’t want to lose weight, start eating healthier to better your heart health and live a longer life. And don’t forget to exercise on a regular basis. What are your reasons to eat healthier?

Food Health and Fitness

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. A healthy breakfast can get your day off to a great start, but an unhealthy breakfast, full of fat, sugar and empty calories can leave you feeling like you need a morning nap. Here are 5 foods to avoid at breakfast and some healthier options.

1. Scrambled Eggs

What? Aren’t eggs a healthy breakfast option? Yes, but when you order scrambled eggs at a restaurant chances are they have added cream and butter to make those eggs taste great. Also, the serving size for scrambled eggs is usually way out of whack. If you substitute poached eggs, you know exactly what you are getting.

2. Muffins and other baked goods

These are full of hidden butter and sugar. They may be immediately satisfying but you will soon be hungry again and craving more sugar. Skip these all together and go for some whole grain toast which will keep you feeling satisfied longer. Instead of butter, try some ripe avocado or light cream cheese spread.

3. Hollandaise Sauce

Hollandaise sauce is made from eggs yolks and butter. The yolk of an egg is where all of the fat and cholesterol is and we all know that butter should be avoided. Try replacing with some stewed tomatoes or a slice of melted cheese for a healthier option.

4. Bacon and sausage

These are two of the worst offenders at the breakfast table. They are incredibly high in fat and cholesterol. For a tasty alternative that will still satisfy, try some lean ham or prosciutto.

5. Donuts

Donuts are deep fried balls of dough rolled in sugar. Do not eat donuts ever, certainly not for breakfast.
Look for breakfast foods that make you feel ready to start your day and keep you satisfied throughout the morning. Let the way you feel be your guide.

Food

Drinking water is essential to your health because the human body is made up of over 60% water. When your water intake isn’t equal to your output, you can become dehydrated and it can cause numerous health issues. Drinking enough water daily ensures that your body functions properly. The water flushes out toxins and helps energize the muscles of your body. Unfortunately, it’s not easy to drink enough water each day. We often get bored with water and crave sodas. Check out seven ways you need to increase your water intake.

1. Add fresh fruit

Drinking plain water can be a little boring, so why not spice it up? Add your favorite fresh fruit to the water and enjoy your drink. Its taste is very refreshing and exquisite and, of course, fresh fruit infused water has many health benefits. You can add a slice of lime, orange, lemon or cucumber to a glass of water. The good news is that you don’t have to go to spa or restaurants to enjoy the taste and health benefits of fresh fruit infused water. Make it at home and save your money.

2. Make water accessible

The main thing you should do is to get all harmful items out of sight. I mean a pitcher of juice or a bottle of Coke. These drinks are full of Aspartame, artificial dyes and unnatural sweeteners. Make clean water more accessible. You can buy water purifying system or bottled water. Moreover, if you are going to be out and about all day or sitting at a desk, don’t forget to take along a bottle of water.

3. Don’t gulp water at once

Sip water, don’t gulp! It is better to drink it partially all day long. Also, don’t wait until you get thirsty. Begin sipping early in the morning and sip all day long. It is harmful to gulp water at once, that’s why you should drink slowly and enjoy the taste of water.

4. Use reusable water bottles

I’ve got an idea how to increase the intake of water and I’d like to share it with you! If you don’t like running to the kitchen to fill your cup with water, try to do the following thing. Fill up 4-5 reusable water bottles with water and ice and place them in different rooms. You will have an opportunity to drink water more often than usual.

5. Keep water-to-go ready in your fridge

Unfortunately, my busy days don’t give me an opportunity to keep the level of water in my body in order. I don’t know about you, but I often forget to drink water. That’s why I always have water-to-go ready in the fridge. It takes a minute to grab a bottle and throw it in your bag. Thus, you can sip water almost everywhere.

6. Drink water before each meal

A glass of water 30 minutes before meal has a positive effect on your health. Firstly, it can reduce calorie intake. Secondly, it helps prevent overeating. But you shouldn’t drink more than one glass before each meal, because too much water can lead to serious health problems.

7. Eat water-enriched food

One of the easiest ways to increase your water intake is to consume more water-enriched foods. Fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon, cucumbers, strawberries and tomatoes, are high in water, so use them in your salads, smoothies or eat them raw. This way, you will increase your water intake and improve your overall health.

Food

Potato chips are convenient and tasty, I agree, but they are not healthy. Potato chips are high in calories and contain high levels of trans fats and sodium. Since most of us have cravings for potato chips every now and then, it’d be great to know some healthier alternatives to them. When it comes to healthy eating, it’s important to know how to curb your cravings with healthy alternatives. Check out the list of 7 healthy and tasty alternatives to potato chips and try out some of them right now. They are incredibly delicious and so easy to make!

1. Beetroot chips

High in powerful antioxidants, beetroot chips are one of the best alternatives to potato chips. Beetroot chips help lower high blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart attacks. If you don’t like beets, you might not like the taste of beetroot chips. However, if you incorporate these healthy chips with some healthy dip, you won’t even feel the difference between regular potato chips and beetroot chips.

2. Banana chips

When you’re craving something delicious and crunchy, reach for banana chips instead of potato chips. Bananas are high in fiber and potassium, and they’re an excellent source of energy to your body. It can be easier to eat a fresh banana, but if you have some free time, try to make banana chips at home. Your family, especially kids, will love this healthy snack.

3. Tofu chips

Homemade tofu chips are extremely healthy and diet-friendly. They are low in calories and fat and high in protein. Although tofu chips are tasteless, you can always match them with your favorite dips. I love eating tofu chips on their own. This is a healthy alternative that I never feel guilty about.

4. Tortilla chips

While you can purchase tortilla chips from the grocery store, it’s better to make your own tortilla chips in the comfort of your home. The thing is, many store brand tortilla chips contain lots of salt and oil and they can be high in calories. Homemade tortilla chips are healthier and tastier since you control how much salt is added and what oils are used.

5. Taro chips

A white-fleshed root vegetable high in fiber and vitamin E, taro is a wonderful ingredient for a low-calorie treat. Although taro chips are more popular in Asian countries, you can make them in your own kitchen. Taro chips are easy to make and they are healthy and tasty at the same time.

6. Pita chips

These chips come closest to resembling potato chips. The considerable difference is that pita chips are healthier and tastier, especially when spiced up with cinnamon or garlic. You can dip pita chips into salsa or guacamole, or eat them on their own. But if you buy pits chips, don’t expect them to be healthy. Most store bought pita chips contain lots of sodium and fat. Opt for whole grain pita chips or try to make your own pita chips.

7. Kale chips

One of my favorite alternatives to potato chips is kale chips. Not only are they healthy and tasty, they also look delicious! Kale is rich in magnesium, calcium, vitamins A, C and K and it’s an amazing snack to eat any time of the day. Kale chips are quick and easy to make. Just toss some chopped kale leaves drizzled with olive oil in your oven until crispy, and your healthy snack is ready.

8. Eggplant chips

Eggplant is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, and is a great source of dietary fiber. A cup of cooked eggplant contains about 2-5% of recommended amounts of vitamins B1, B6 and C. When garnished with a sprinkling of pepper and salt or a touch of parsley, garlic, parmesan and dill, eggplant chips are a healthy and tasty snack to eat any time of the day.

9. Mango chips

There are many ways and reasons to eat mangoes. Mangoes are high in vitamin C, pectin and fibre, which help control cholesterol levels, and they are incredibly delicious. Although mango chips make a healthy snack, the are high in sugar, so make sure you eat them in moderation. If you want to make mango chips at home, preheat your oven to 100°C, spread mango slices onto a baking tray covered with parchment paper, and bake for about 45 minutes. Then, turn your mango slices over and continue baking for about 30 minutes.

10. Carrot chips

High in vitamin A, carrots boast plenty of amazing health benefits including cancer prevention, healthy, beautiful skin, and anti-aging. Carrot chips are one of the healthiest alternatives to potato chips. Before baking your carrot chips in the oven, add nutmeg and cinnamon to make them even more delicious. Bake for about 45 minutes or until crispy.

11. Zucchini chips

Zucchini is an excellent source of vitamin B and eating this veggie regularly helps keep the skin clear and the hair shiny. One of the most delicious ways to consume zucchini is definitely zucchini chips. Zucchini chips are quick and easy to make. Just bake thin zucchini slices with a bit of pepper and salt and a splash of olive oil, or dip them in egg whites, coat with breadcrumbs and black pepper, and bake for about 10 minutes each side. Yum!

12. Apple chips

I think everyone knows about health benefits of apples. They help lower cholesterol, reduce risk of diabetes and pancreatic cancer, and boost your immune system. For me, apples are always a healthy snack to munch on. Recently I’ve tried apple chips and I’ve discovered that they are great alternative to potato chips. Although apple chips are not quick to make (you need to bake them for about 2 hours), they are amazingly tasty and healthy as well.
Although these chips are healthier than potato chips, don’t forget to control your portions. Also, remember that store-bought chips are not as healthy as they should be, so it’s always better to make your own chips at home. What are your favorite alternatives to potato chips?

Food

We all know that the best way to get flat abs is to do abs exercises daily. However, there are a few foods that can help you achieve your fitness goal faster. The foods for flat abs provide good nutrition, help reduce bloating, and slim down your belly. Consider incorporating these 10 best foods for flat abs into your daily diet and you will feel leaner and sculpted in no time.

1. Plain Greek yogurt

High in protein, plain Greek yogurt is the perfect snack to eat any time of the day. Did you know that it can help you get a flat tummy? The protein in plain Greek yogurt helps curb your cravings for food and helps keep your stomach feeling fuller longer. You can add your favorite fruits to turn plain Greek yogurt into super delicious and healthy snack!

2. Berries

Berries are low in sugar and rich in antioxidants, and they make a great snack for flat abs. Eat a cup of berries every day to achieve your lean tummy. Berries help boost the digestive process, stabilize your blood sugar and reduce bloating. They can provide lots of energy in the middle of the day or when you work out.

3. Eggs

Eggs are among the best foods for flat abs since they are high in natural fat burning elements such as protein. In fact, eggs are a great choice due to their amino acids which are the building blocks of the cells. Eating eggs for breakfast will help you eat less and make healthy food choices during the day.

4. Nuts

Yes, nuts are high in fat, but if you consume them in moderation they can help you achieve any weight loss goal. A handful of nuts is an excellent way to get healthy fats that you should be consuming daily. Nuts are rich in protein and fiber which help stabilize your blood sugar and curb your cravings. Incorporate pistachios, walnuts, almonds or any other your favorite nut into your daily diet to get flat abs.

5. Fish

Fish helps speed up your metabolism and reduce your cravings. The protein in fish is filling and if you eat fish such as salmon and tuna, they contain Omega 3 fatty acids, which help increase weight loss and fat burning. Tasty and healthy! Plus, fish is easy to make.

6. Soy

Soybeans are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and powerful antioxidants. Moreover, they are very versatile. Toss shelled edamame into your soup, munch on dry-roasted soybeans, or add a spoonful of silken tofu to your smoothie. You can also opt for liquid soy.

7. Apples

Apples are amazing and they are one of the healthiest foods you can eat daily. Each apple contains 5 grams of fiber as well as pectin, which is a natural fat burner. Apples are low in sugar and calories, which makes them a great snack for flat abs. Studies show that those who have at least one apple a day lose more weight than those who don’t eat apples at all. Did you eat your apple today?

8. A leafy green salad

Packed in phytonutrients and rich in fiber, a leafy green salad is one of the best foods for flat abs. When you eat fish or chicken, make sure you eat a huge leafy green salad first or at least try to pair the two meals together. A leafy green salad will help you boost your energy levels, feel better and become leaner.

9. Quinoa

Quinoa contains 11 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber per half cup. This whole grain is a tasty and healthy side dish for dinner. Its crunchy-yet-chewy texture and nutty flavor are like a cross between short-grain brown rice and whole-wheat couscous. Give it a try and you will definitely like it!

10. Avocado

Avocado is one of the most nutritious fruits you can choose for a healthy diet. Just slice up one avocado to get about 15 grams of fiber and to keep your hunger at bay. Or, enjoy ¼ cup of fresh avocado to get a full serving of monounsaturated fatty acids which help burn stomach fat.