10 natural foods that should be included in your diet
As we prepare to say goodbye to 2015 and approach 2016, it's becoming increasingly clear - healthy eating shouldn't be complicated. If health is your goal, there is no way around your diet. Remember that your physical health is a direct reflection of what you eat and how you live your life in general. Prepackaged and processed foods may be easy to cook, but creating a nutritious and balanced meal using natural ingredients is an absolute must if you want to achieve optimal health. So why wait? Fill your kitchen with these...

10 natural foods that should be included in your diet
As we prepare to say goodbye to 2015 and approach 2016, it's becoming increasingly clear - healthy eating shouldn't be complicated.
If health is your goal, there is no way around your diet. Remember that your physical health is a direct reflection of what you eat and how you live your life in general. Prepackaged and processed foods may be easy to cook, but creating a nutritious and balanced meal using natural ingredients is an absolute must if you want to achieve optimal health. So why wait? Stock your kitchen with these natural foods that provide a range of essential nutrients for a balanced diet and add them to your diet daily for a healthy boost in your life:
- Zitrone (Nimbus)
Not only is lemon a good flavor enhancer, but it is also packed with antioxidants and other health benefits that rejuvenate the body and mind. A daily dose of lemon as lemonade or squeezed raw into meals strengthens immunity, cleanses the body and helps overall health. To get even more nutrients out of this sour fruit, combine it with delicious recipes for a refreshing taste and balanced nutrition.
- Mandeln (Badam)
There are a whole host of benefits in a handful of almonds, popularly known as badam in India. With energy-boosting protein, hunger-fighting fiber and many essential nutrients, almonds are the tree nut highest in protein, fiber, calcium, vitamin E, riboflavin and niacin. They are also one of the highest sources of hard-to-find magnesium. Consuming these nuts daily has several benefits including helping with weight control, fighting diabetes, and keeping your heart healthy. Luckily, these flavorful and versatile nuts are available year-round to make a healthy and tasty addition to your meals. Try these incredibly delicious badam recipes for an easy, filling and healthy snack.
- Bio-Eier
As a source of high-quality protein, organic eggs are relatively inexpensive and are a good source of high-quality nutrients that many people lack. Eggs are easy to cook and are great for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Try Andae ka Halwa or Badam Cutlet for an “eggilicious” snack.
- Brokkoli
“Eat your broccoli” was a common phrase and your parents knew what was going on when they told you that. This humble green vegetable is a source of several nutrients such as fiber, calcium, potassium, folic acid and polynutrients that help in combating the risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and other similar diseases. Broccoli can be eaten in stir-fries, soups, salads and casseroles.
- Haferflocken
What could be better than starting the day with a bowl of oatmeal mixed with dried fruits. Oats are considered one of the healthiest whole foods and are not only balanced but also taste great. It is packed with fiber and minerals such as manganese, magnesium, thiamine and phosphorus. Incorporate oats in your regular diet along with dry fruits to reap multiple health benefits.
- Knoblauch
With its unique combination of flavonoids and nutrients, garlic is an essential part of your daily diet. It is a good spice to add aroma and flavor as well as additional nutrients to your dishes. Try these delicious garlic recipes: Taimuri Shorba, Murg Badam Korma and Badami Murg Kheema
- Bohnen
Rich in fiber and antioxidants, beans are more than just a meat substitute. They offer countless health benefits and are easily available. Beans can be incorporated into a main dish (Rajma/Dal), a side dish (Baked Beans), a starter (Soup – Moong Dal Badami) or a snack (Dip). You can be creative with your meal planning if you have kidney beans, black beans, black-eyed peas, chickpeas, peas, and lentils in your kitchen.
- Spinat
The green leafy spinach should be an essential part of your daily diet. Spinach contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which boost immunity while improving eye health. Make your salads with spinach; Add spinach to scrambled eggs; Drape it over pizza or cook the incredibly delicious Palak Badam ki Subzi.
- Indische Stachelbeere
Deliciously sour and tart, amla or Indian gooseberry is a superfood that is the most commonly used ingredient in most Ayurvedic preparations. Amla is a rich source of vitamin C and contains many vital minerals that are essential for good metabolic health. To include the benefits of amla in your diet, add a pinch of amla powder in sweet and sour dishes, eat fresh amla fruits or drink its juice to boost your overall well-being.
- Joghurt
It's no coincidence that the yogurt section in most grocery stores has practically taken over the dairy section. Yogurt provides a healthy dose of bacteria that boost your immune system and protect against cancer. Yogurt with blueberries, almonds, flax seeds and honey is the ultimate breakfast or dessert. Yogurt is also a good base for salad dressings and dips.