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12 High Carb Foods That Are Incredibly Healthy

  • 12 min read

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Quinoa

Quinoa is a grain-like seed that is often referred to as a “superfood” due to its many health benefits. It has been a staple food in South America for thousands of years and has gained popularity around the world in recent years.

Quinoa is high in protein and contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. It is also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. Additionally, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Quinoa can be cooked in a similar way to rice and can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, and as a side dish. Its mild and nutty flavor makes it a versatile ingredient in many different types of cuisine.

 

2.Oats

Oats are considered to be a very healthy food. They are a whole grain that is high in fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium, phosphorus, and thiamin.

One of the main health benefits of oats is that they can help lower cholesterol levels in the body. This is due to their high content of soluble fiber, which can bind to cholesterol in the digestive tract and prevent it from being absorbed into the bloodstream.

Additionally, oats have a low glycemic index, which means that they can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent spikes in insulin. This can be particularly beneficial for people with diabetes or those who are at risk of developing the condition.

Oats are also a great source of antioxidants, which can help protect the body against damage from free radicals.

Overall, oats are a nutritious and versatile food that can be enjoyed in many different ways, including as oatmeal, granola, or in baked goods like muffins and cookies.

Oats contain many beneficial nutrients, including fiber and protein. Studies have also shown that eating oats lowers blood sugar and cholesterol levels

 

3.Buckwheat

Buckwheat is a plant that is often used as a grain in cooking. Despite its name, it is not related to wheat and is actually a gluten-free pseudocereal. Buckwheat is a rich source of nutrients and has many health benefits.

One of the main health benefits of buckwheat is its high fiber content. This can help promote digestive health and prevent constipation. Buckwheat is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against damage from free radicals.

Additionally, buckwheat is a good source of plant-based protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. This makes it a great option for vegetarians and vegans who are looking to add more protein to their diets.

Buckwheat is also a low glycemic index food, which means that it can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent spikes in insulin. This can be beneficial for people with diabetes or those who are at risk of developing the condition.

Overall, buckwheat is a highly nutritious food that can be used in a variety of dishes, including as a substitute for rice or as an ingredient in salads, soups, and baked goods.

4. Bananas

Bananas are a nutritious fruit that are packed with a variety of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds that contribute to their overall health benefits. Here are some of the reasons why bananas are considered a healthy food:

  1. Nutrient-rich: Bananas are an excellent source of several important nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and dietary fiber.

  2. Rich in antioxidants: Bananas contain several antioxidants, including dopamine and catechins, which can help protect the body against damage from free radicals.

  3. Good for digestion: Bananas are high in dietary fiber, which can help promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.

  4. May help regulate blood sugar: Bananas have a low glycemic index, which means that they can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent spikes in insulin.

  5. Can boost energy: Bananas are a great source of carbohydrates, which can provide a quick boost of energy when you need it.

  6. May improve heart health: Bananas are high in potassium, which is an important mineral that can help regulate blood pressure and improve heart health.

Bananas are high in potassium, a mineral that plays a key role in regulating blood pressure. Less ripe bananas also contain resistant starch and pectin, both of which can improve digestive health.

5. Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a high carb food that are also very healthy. They are a great source of complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them an excellent addition to a balanced diet.

Some of the main health benefits of sweet potatoes include:

  1. High in fiber: Sweet potatoes are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help promote digestive health and prevent constipation.

  2. Packed with nutrients: Sweet potatoes are rich in several important nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and manganese.

  3. May help regulate blood sugar: Sweet potatoes have a relatively low glycemic index, which means that they can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent spikes in insulin.

  4. May support immune function: Sweet potatoes are high in vitamin A, which plays a crucial role in immune function.

  5. Can help promote heart health: Sweet potatoes are a good source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and improve heart health.

Overall, sweet potatoes are a nutritious and versatile food that can be enjoyed in many different ways, including baked, roasted, mashed, or as a component of soups or stews. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, along with several other vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

6. Beets

Beets, also known as beetroot, are a root vegetable that is known for its deep, rich color and sweet taste. Beets are a nutrient-dense food that provides a range of health benefits.

Here are some of the reasons why beets are considered a healthy food:

  1. High in antioxidants: Beets are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against damage from free radicals.

  2. May help improve heart health: Beets are a good source of nitrates, which can help improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. This can be beneficial for heart health.

  3. Can help support exercise performance: The nitrates in beets can also help improve exercise performance by increasing oxygen flow to the muscles.

  4. High in dietary fiber: Beets are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help promote digestive health and prevent constipation.

  5. May help support liver function: Beets contain compounds called betalains, which may help support liver function and detoxification.

  6. Rich in vitamins and minerals: Beets are a good source of several important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, folate, and potassium.

Overall, beets are a nutritious and versatile food that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, including roasted, boiled, or pickled. They can be eaten on their own, added to salads or soups, or used as a natural food coloring agent.

7. Oranges

Oranges are a healthy food. They are a good source of several important nutrients and have a range of health benefits. Here are some of the reasons why oranges are considered a healthy food:

  1. High in vitamin C: Oranges are a rich source of vitamin C, which is an important antioxidant that can help protect the body against damage from free radicals.

  2. May help improve heart health: Oranges are a good source of folate and potassium, which can help improve heart health by regulating blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease.

  3. Can help support immune function: Oranges are high in vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in immune function and can help protect against infections.

  4. High in dietary fiber: Oranges are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help promote digestive health and prevent constipation.

  5. May help prevent kidney stones: Oranges are high in citric acid, which can help prevent the formation of kidney stones.

  6. Low in calories: Oranges are relatively low in calories, making them a great snack option for those who are watching their calorie intake.

Oranges are a good source of fiber. They also contain high amounts of vitamin C and other healthy plant compounds. Eating oranges may benefit heart health and increase iron absorption to help prevent anemia.

8. Blueberries

Blueberries are a very healthy food. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can provide a range of health benefits. Here are some of the reasons why blueberries are considered a healthy food:

  1. High in antioxidants: Blueberries are one of the richest sources of antioxidants among fruits and vegetables, which can help protect the body against damage from free radicals.

  2. May improve cognitive function: Blueberries contain compounds called anthocyanins, which have been shown to improve cognitive function and protect against age-related cognitive decline.

  3. May help reduce inflammation: The antioxidants in blueberries can also help reduce inflammation in the body, which may help prevent chronic diseases.

  4. Low in calories: Blueberries are relatively low in calories, making them a great snack option for those who are watching their calorie intake.

  5. May improve heart health: The antioxidants in blueberries may also help improve heart health by reducing the risk of heart disease.

  6. Good source of vitamins and minerals: Blueberries are a good source of several important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese.

Overall, blueberries are a nutritious and delicious fruit that can be enjoyed on their own or as a component of a variety of dishes, including smoothies, oatmeal, and baked goods.

9. Grapefruit

Grapefruits  are a good source of several important nutrients and have a range of health benefits. Here are some of the reasons why grapefruits are considered a healthy food:

  1. High in vitamin C: Grapefruits are a rich source of vitamin C, which is an important antioxidant that can help protect the body against damage from free radicals.

  2. May help improve heart health: Grapefruits are a good source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.

  3. May help with weight management: Grapefruits are relatively low in calories and high in fiber, which can help promote feelings of fullness and reduce overall calorie intake.

  4. May help reduce insulin resistance: Some studies have suggested that grapefruits may help reduce insulin resistance, which can be beneficial for those with type 2 diabetes.

  5. Good source of other vitamins and minerals: Grapefruits are a good source of several other important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, folate, and potassium.

  6. May help prevent cancer: Some studies have suggested that the compounds found in grapefruits may help prevent the development of certain types of cancer.

Overall, grapefruits are a nutritious and refreshing fruit that can be enjoyed on their own or as a component of a variety of dishes, including salads and smoothies. However, it is important to note that grapefruit can interact with some medications, so it is important to check with a healthcare provider before consuming grapefruit if you are taking any medications.

10. Apples

Apples are well known for their sweet, tart flavor and crisp texture.

They’re available in many colors, sizes, and flavors, all of which generally contain about 14–16 grams of carbs per 100 grams

Apples also boast many vitamins and minerals, but usually only in small amounts.

However, they are a good source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber.

Apples may also offer several health benefits, including improved blood sugar management and heart health

Early research suggests that adding apples to your diet may even be associated with a reduced risk of certain types of cancer. However, more research is needed.  Apples contain a decent amount of vitamin C, antioxidants, and plant compounds. Eating apples may improve blood sugar management, as well as reduce the risk of heart disease and potentially even certain types of cancer.

11. Kidney beans

Kidney beans are a member of the legume family and a variety of the common bean.

Cooked kidney beans contain about 21.5 grams of carbs per 100 grams, in the form of starches and fiber. This legume is also high in protein.

Kidney beans are a good source of many vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds. They’re also rich in antioxidant compounds, including anthocyanins and isoflavones.

Their numerous health benefits include improved blood sugar regulation and a reduced risk of colon cancer. 
Kidney beans contain many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Cooked kidney beans are also a good source of protein and have been linked to several health benefits.

12. Chickpeas

Also known as garbanzo beans, chickpeas are part of the legume family.

Cooked chickpeas contain 27.4 grams of carbs per 100-gram serving, along with almost 8 grams of fiber. They’re also a good source of plant-based protein.

Chickpeas contain many vitamins and minerals, including iron, phosphorus, and B vitamins 

Not only have chickpeas been linked to improved heart and digestive health, but some test-tube studies suggest they may also help protect against certain types of cancer. More research in humans is needed, however

Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein and contain many vitamins and minerals. Eating chickpeas has been linked to benefits for heart and digestive health, as well as potential cancer prevention.