6. Free Range Organic Eggs

Eggs are not bad for you. Americans turned away from eggs due to concern over cholesterol. But the fact is your body can produce far more cholesterol than it can absorb. High cholesterol comes from eating too many calories, eating foods that you are allergic too, eating to many junk carbohydrates (sugar and flour, which promote inflammation, leading to high cholesterol levels), stress, and lack of exercise. Free range organic eggs are a wonderful source of quality fat and protein. In addition, they are extremely filling, and easy to eat on the go. Soft boiling or poaching is the best way to prepare eggs. Minimal cooking preserves their nutrition.

7. Papaya

Papaya is a tasty, tangy fruit with a number of health benefits. The greatest of these come from a chemical called “papain” which does wonders for digestion. Fresh papaya (or papaya extract) is prescribed by many doctors to aid heart burn, gas, and other digestive problems. But even if you don’t have any digestive issues, papaya can help you digest your food more easily, extracting more of the nutrition from what you eat. Papaya is sugary, so consume in moderation - have a few servings per week.

8. Garlic

Not only is garlic a phenomenal way to add flavor to meats, stir fries, and veggies, (simmer garlic in olive oil or a little butter and pour over veggies – delicious!) it is wonderful for you! It helps your immune system fight off bacteria, fungi, and other invaders, and is also believed to help lower cholesterol, and play a role in preventing both cancer and heart disease. If you’re worried about smelling like garlic, try an aged garlic supplement. These are formulated to deliver the health benefits of garlic without the accompanying odor.

9. Bell Peppers

Red, Yellow, and Orange bell peppers can add color, flavor, and nutrition to almost any meal. Best eaten raw, bell peppers pack a host of vitamins, minerals, and, most off all “phytonutrients” (plant based nutrients with all sorts of wonderful health properties that are just now being documented) to keep your body fit and healthy. Eat bell peppers two or three times per week. But be careful if you have joint problems. Peppers, tomatoes, and other nightshade vegetables can all aggravate joint inflammation when eaten in excess.

10. Black Beans

Ok, so they sound boring. But black beans are like a blank canvas – they are what you make of them. Mash them up with olive oil, lemon, and paprika to make a great dip. Add them to salads, or simmer them with curry powder and diced celery for a delicious quick Indian meal.  Black beans are high in fiber and protein, and provide “low glycemic” carbs to keep your blood sugar (and therefore, your appetite and energy levels) on an even keel.