Million-dollar ad campaigns on healthy eating bombard the public. While those campaigns are trying to reduce obesity and other illnesses like cancer and heart disease, manufacturers of fructose-laden candy and snack foods run competing ads. It’s no wonder that individuals become confused about what foods they should eat and how much they should consume. It’s time to cut to the chase. This simple guide to some of the most nutrient rich and effective foods for fighting disease will make selecting nutritious foods a straightforward process.

• Red Wine: A small amount of red wine on a daily basis has a positive effect on the reduction of cholesterol, leading to the prevention of heart disease. In addition, red wine contains polyphenol. Polyphenol is an antioxidant found in the skin of grapes that is known for reducing cancer. It’s recommended that adults drink one glass of red wine per day.
• Walnuts and Almonds: Nuts are well known for their ability to reduce cholesterol and lower the risk of heart disease. A healthy portion is two and a half ounces, which you can measure by placing a small amount in the palm of your hand. Plus, a handful is quite filling and reduces hunger. Almonds are a great source of vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium.
• Milk: Milk is vital for good health because it strengthens bones, prevents osteoporosis, and slows down tooth decay. Other less obvious benefits of drinking milk include soothing nerves, relaxing muscles, and its antacid properties.
• Water: Water has long been touted for its health benefits. It helps you lose weight, it flushes toxins from your system, and it keeps your skin looking young – all great reasons to increase your intake.
• Oatmeal: Oatmeal is one of the least costly and easiest foods for reducing cholesterol. Oatmeal has soluble fiber that reduces LDL cholesterol. A 1-1/2 cup serving per day is suggested.
• Chocolate: Not all healthy foods have to be unpleasant. Chocolate has long been associated with healthy blood flow and blood pressure. Dark chocolate is packed with the most health benefits of any chocolate. Dark chocolate contains more antioxidants than some fruits. In addition, chocolate reduces specific hormones in the body.

This is only a basic guide to some of the healthiest foods. Explore more foods for even more variety. Eating these foods is a positive step toward optimal health and longevity. When integrating a healthier diet into your lifestyle, you will also feel better and notice added benefits like shinier hair and a better complexion. You will also notice fewer days missed at work and fewer visits to the doctor’s office. Most of all, you will feel great about the choices you are making, which in turn will give you a positive attitude. Start by incorporating just a few of these foods into your diet and increase the number as you become accustomed to eating them on a daily basis. Remember, a healthy body is a happy body!