In our pursuit of "healthy" eating, we ruthlessly ignore many foods that nutritionists once dubbed harmful. In fact, a balanced diet doesn’t only include vegetables and low-fat cheese. Bright Side has compiled a list of foods that you should incorporate into your daily diet again to stay in good health. 1. Bacon Bacon contains selenium, which protects our cells from damage. It also has vitamin B and phosphorus, which are essential for normal functioning of the nervous system. This is a priceless source of proteins that serve as a building material for skin, hair, and muscle cells. Bacon also has a property beneficial for pregnant women: it helps the brain of a fetus to develop. 2. Potatoes Potatoes contain calcium, sodium, vitamins C and D, and lots of fiber. Fiber aids weight loss by distributing nutritional substances, ensuring normal functioning of the digestive system and long-lasting satiety. It also reduces the level of cholesterol in the blood, and vitamin C reinforces the immune system. 3. Cocoa Cocoa powder contains calcium and potassium. They help to strengthen your bones, ensure the good work of the cardiovascular system, support the nervous system, and stimulate muscle contraction. Copper takes care of metabolism, helps to increase energy, and rejuvenates the skin. It is also necessary for normal functioning of the nervous system. 4. Pistachios Pistachios, thanks to vitamin E and L-arginine, help to keep your heart healthy. These substances are good for keeping arteries flexible and maintaining normal blood density. The large amount of antioxidants contained in pistachios prevents your skin from aging. Lutein and zeaxanthin, with regular consumption, reduce the risk of vision loss. 5. Ketchup Tomato ketchup has a high level of lycopene, which prevents the development of cancerous cells. It blocks the oxidation of fat in the vessels and reduces the risk of heart disease. Vitamin A helps to improve eyesight and acts as a means to prevent blindness. 6. Butter Butter is a source of fatty acids, which are very important for our bodies. The latest research shows that butter has nothing to do with the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and doesn’t pose a threat to our health. 7. Maple syrup Due to being rich in antioxidants, maple syrup keeps the immune system strong and protects your body from harmful influences. It’s a good remedy for preventing anemia because it saturates the blood with oxygen. Manganese keeps the brain active and functioning and benefits the neurons. 8. Peanut butter Peanuts are rich in vitamins B6 and B12, which are essential for the delivery of oxygen to the body tissues. Vitamin B6 helps to deliver nutrients to the muscles. According to the latest research, the vitamin B3 (niacin) contained in peanut butter helps to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s by up to 70%. 9. White chocolate White chocolate contains linoleic acid, which maintains your vascular health and prevents the risk of developing hypertension. It can also save you from gout. Chocolate has a lot of flavanols that are very good for your brain. They help to develop your memory, both short- and long-term. 10. Whiskey Consuming whiskey improves brain functions. Whiskey contains an antioxidant that helps the body prevent the growth of cancer cells, maintain the immune system, and cope with diseases. Whiskey reduces blood coagulability and is a good remedy for preventing vascular diseases. 11. Sake Sake contains amino acids that help to prevent osteoporosis and peptides that prevent Alzheimer’s. Peptides also reduce blood pressure, prevent hypertension, and, as a result, help to avoid strokes, angina, and heart attacks. Source
