1. Oats: High in fiber and complex carbohydrates, oats have been known to lower cholesterol. Serving suggestions:Sprinkle with nuts and fruit in the morning or make homemade granola for a snack.
2. Eggs: A great source of protein, they are also a great source of antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which may ward off age-related eye problems. Serving suggestions: Try a veggie omelet for breakfast, egg salad sandwiches for lunch or try a Spinach & Potato Frittata.
3. Kale: This dark leafy green is the "King of Calcium" containing more calcium than a glass of milk. It is loaded with vitamin C and carotenoids. Serving suggestions: Chop up some kale and add to your favorite stir-fry or try my kale chips.
4. Nuts: Nuts contain fat that is good for you (so as long as it is not roasted). They are a great source of vitamin E and protein. Buying them in the shell will cost less. Serving suggestions: eat them raw, salted or sprinkle them into your salad.
5. Beans: Great source of protein and fiber, high in iron, folate and manganese and may help reduce cholesterol levels. Serving suggestions: Try them in salads, curries and hummus.
6. Broccoli: Contains calcium, vitamins A and C, potassium, folate and fiber. It is also packed with phytonutrients - compounds that could prevent heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers. Serving suggestions: throw it in salads, eat it raw, try them in stir fries.
7. Brown Rice: Low in fat and high in protein and fiber loaded with B vitamins. Serving suggestions: mix with nuts and veggies for a cold rice salad, blend with herbs for a side dish. Replace your white rice with brown.
8. Beets: Naturally sweet, containing folate, iron and antioxidants. Serving suggestions: shred in salads or try Roasted Beets with Feta.
9. Butternut Squash: Contains 5g of fiber per 1/2 c and lots of vitamin A and C. Serving suggestions: Butternut squash or serve with a bit of butter and maple syrup.
10. Whole Grain Pasta: High in protein, fiber and B vitamins - it is a great source over white grain pasta. Serving suggestions: switch out your white pasta and do a 1/2 and 1/2.
11. Water: Our body is primarily made up of water. It is such an important nutrient in the body. Serving suggestions: Drink 1/2 of your body weight in ounces. Garnish with a lemon, strawberry, orange, cucumber wedge.
Recipies from: Mindy Kuecher, Holistic Health Coach http://amplifylife.net/index.cfm/pageid/93