The New Year is well on its way and most people have already given up on their New Years resolutions. In the rare event that some person out there is still holding on to the notion that she will actually give up dessert or be less judgmental, mad props on the self control. Realistically, getting back on track is not going to happen. However, it is possible to at least head in the same direction by eating healthy. Always remember, eating healthy comes with a hefty price tag: terrible taste. Suck it up. Nothing tastes as good as low cholesterol feels.
1. Seaweed- One of the best parts about sushi is that this fishy food masks the oceanic flavor of seaweed. Seaweed balances blood sugar, aids in digestion and it is low on the calories (just like celery, 0 weight watchers points). This green cuisine comes in different varieties, all of which are equally unbearable. Trader Joe’s has a roasted snack, which comes in a wasabi-masked flavor. Seaweed salad is another option, arguably the most tolerable.
2. Kombucha- Plugging your nose whilst drinking is no longer just reserved for taking shots. Kombucha is a fermented tea combined with yeast, sugar and bacteria. Bacteria! Yum! Seriously, this drink is packed with B vitamins. Some claim it can prevent cancer and improve liver function, but the jury is still out. Readers take note; little scientific research exists to support the health benefits of Kombucha. If you’re a little unsure, stick to green tea.
3. Kale- The vegetable of the moment. Eat it raw, fried, sautéed, burnt, the list goes on for pages. Kale is crazy healthy. So much so that one serving contains 5 grams of fiber, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium and a measly 36 calories. Unfortunately, Kale has a bitter taste, especially when eaten raw. Try it in the chip form for an alternative to the tortilla and potato variety.
4. Chia Seeds- Some claim chia seeds have a nutty flavor, but those people were able to get over the texture, which is really saying something. This super food contains omega-3 fatty acids and has more antioxidants than blueberries. Word.Luckily these little seedlings come in pill form. The seeds from a Chia Pet is not recommended (by the FDA), but if you’re in college no one is judging.
5. Quinoa- Pronounced keen-who, this grain is even healthier than oatmeal. Quinoa includes eight amino acids necessary for tissue growth and repair. Other than that it is packed with magnesium, fiber, calcium, riboflavin, copper and potassium. On its own, Quinoa tastes like cardboard. Load it up with blue agave nectar and some fruit and it’s not so bad.