Thursday, January 23, 2014

24 Foods Under 40 Calories (Part 2)



I thoroughly enjoy eating! Nothing is better than knowing that the foods I'm eating are adding to my quest to live a healthy lifestyle. Here is a list of foods that are not only low in calories and nutritious, but also super delicious. Step outside the box and explore filling your plate with some of these powerful superfoods!

10. Grapefruit- 39 calories per half 
A powerhouse for heart health, grapefruit contains vitamin C, folic acid, and potassium, along with pectin, a soluble fiber that may be a strong ally against atherosclerosis. Pink and red varieties also have vitamin A and lycopene, a phytochemical that protects arterial walls from oxidative damage. 

11. Tomatoes- 22 calories per medium tomato
Tomatoes contain lycopene, an antioxidant rarely found in other foods. Studies suggest that it could protect the skin against harmful UV rays, prevent certain cancers, and lower cholesterol. Plus, tomatoes contain high amounts of potassium, fiber, and vitamin C.

12. Turnips-36 claories per cup

Turnips are actually the cousin of potatoes. They are a great source of fiber and vitamin C, and have a low glycemic load. Most people only eat the greens that grow on top. Try cutting the turnip root in chunks and adding them on top of the greens for the last 15 to 20 minutes of cooking or mashing them with butter and garlic. I also like them diced and tossed into soups or stews. 


13. Watercress- 4 calories per cup  
Watercress is a cleansing cruceriferous vegetable with the fresh crunch of salad greens and the powerful cancer-fighting properties of Brussels sprouts and broccoli. It contains sulforaphane and other compounds linked to lower disease risks. Studies suggest that people who regularly eat these vegetables might also be protected from lung cancer. Try adding watercress to your salad for an extra nutritional punch!

14. Zucchini- 20 calories per cup 
This variety of squash is the ultimate high volume food, meaning you can fill up on very few calories. It’s easy to grow, especially in the summer, packs lots of vitamins A and C, potassium, magnesium and manganese. One cup of zucchini has 10% of the RDA of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, prevents constipation, maintains low blood sugar and curbs overeating. Zucchini is a very versatile vegggie. Try it in stir fry or simply sauteed with coconut oil, onions, salt and pepper.

15. Spinach- 7 calories per cup 
This dark leafy green is rich in iron, folic acid, and vitamin K. It also contains disease-fighting antioxidants beta-carotene and vitamin C, as well as the phytochemical lutein, which protects eyes against age-related macular degeneration. Use as a substitute for lettuce in salad or lightly sauté with shredded carrot, sliced mushrooms, and garlic for a savory omelet filling. 





2 comments:

  1. I'm loving this list!! thanks so much for the wealth of information on each one!!

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    1. I'm so glad that this information is helpful to you! Please share with your friends and family. I'm thankful for you. Peace, Love and Blessings!

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