Yesterday we discussed Health Magazine’s top three picks for the World’s Healthiest foods. Read part one here. Today we have numbers three and four.
India’s lentils are a particular favorite of mine and I plan to eat a lot more after reading about all their good side effects, including possibly slowing down the aging process. Bring on the lentil soup! All of the healthiest foods are easily worked into a regular diet, with the exception, possibly, of Korea’s kimchi.
In my humble opinion, and I am not a picky eater, kimchi is an acquired taste. I used to be married to someone who grew up in South Korea and regularly ate kimchi, so I had plenty of opportunities to acquire the taste. I tried and failed, but maybe you will find you like it, or at least can tolerate it for the sake of your health!
4. India: Lentils
Lentils are to India what potatoes are to America. Comfort food. But lentils are even more ubiquitous in India than potatoes are here. The typical Indian eats lentils two or more times a day, usually served with steamed rich or bread.
Lentils are a good source of protein and cholesterol-lowering soluble fiber. They also have two times more iron than other legumes. They are high in B vitamins and folate, which is particularly good for women of childbearing age because it reduces the chances of birth defects. It was recently discovered that the pigment in Beluga black lentils acts like an antioxidant and helps protect against heart disease, cancer and the aging process in general.
Try lentils in your favorite soup or casserole, or serve them as a side dish instead of potatoes.
5. Korea: Kimchi
Kimchi is such a staple in the Korean diet that they say “kimchi” instead of “cheese” when they are getting their picture taken. This fermented cabbage is typically served with every meal. Kimchi is part of the high fiber, low fat diet that has helped to keep obesity at bay in Korea.
Kimchi is loaded with A, B, and C vitamins. Its biggest benefit, though, is it contains healthy bacteria called lactobacilli that aids in digestion and stops or prevents yeast infections, according to a recent study. It may even prevent the growth of cancer.
Kimchi is traditionally served with steamed rice. If you like spicy foods, go for traditional kimchi. If you want something a little less spicy, look for a mild variety.