By- Arya Archita

Images borrowed from- holycrap.com

With the generations moving ahead, we are coming up with newer methods of packaging foods, inventing varieties of fast foods, and other such consumables harmful to health. Skipping meals of the day, dieting, etc have all become very common trends among youths today.  With all these changing trends and lifestyle habits, health issues such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, etc have taken over. It is of utmost importance now to make sure our diets include very nutritious vegetables and naturally grown foods. There are innumerable vegetables and fruits which include proteins and all necessary vitamins and minerals needed. Here are some of them

1. SWEET POTATO- Sweet potatoes are starchy, sweet vegetables that are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. Sweet potatoes are very much preferred because they are rich in beta carotene, a protein antioxidant that protects vision. Beta-carotene may also help reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancers in post-menopausal women. The antioxidants that the vegetable has helps fight certain kinds of cancer. Purple sweet potatoes may also improve brain function.

2. BROCCOLI- Broccoli which is rich in antioxidants helps fight oxidative stress, which damages cells and leads to inflammation. A key component of broccoli is a photochemical which plays a major part in enhancing the detoxification of airborne toxins and also helps reduce the risk of cancer. It supports the digestive process and provides a fuel source for the healthy bacteria which reside in our gut. Broccolis are taken in all forms like raw, steamed, and roasted. They are taken as salad also.

3. AVOCADOS- Avocado is yet another unique fruit that is incredibly nutritious in many ways. It is added to various dishes because of its rich texture and good flavour. Avocados are very rich in potassium when compared to bananas. Avocados are loaded with Heart-healthy Monosaturated fatty acids. Fiber is another element that avocados are relatively rich in. Eating Avocados can lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. According to some analyzed data, people eating avocados were found to be much healthier than people not having this fruit.

4. BLUEBERRIES- Blueberries are sweet berries that are succulent and nutritious. They are eaten raw or are incorporated into many dishes. Blueberries can help heart health, bone strength, skin health, blood pressure, diabetes management, cancer prevention, and mental health. The adequate amount of vitamins and minerals that they have contribute to maintaining bone structure and strength. The vitamin C that they have helps improve health conditions.

5. RASPBERRIES- Raspberries are another great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They have a rich content of Vitamin C and E, selenium, and antioxidants. Because of the presence of a good amount of antioxidants, they contribute to the health of the brain and neurological system. The fiber in raspberries help manage blood pressure, cholesterol, obesity, heart disease, and stroke. Raspberries contain the antioxidant zeaxanthin, which filters out harmful blue light rays.

With the increased number of health-related issues today, it is evident that our diet has to be strictly healthy. Intake of nutritious food is very important. We must make sure that we cut down the amount of fast food as much as possible, and rather have more green leafy vegetables and fruits.