Eating great cuisine has always been a significant part of Malaysian culture, don’t you think? As a diverse nation, we are accustomed to enjoying delectable cuisine from various ethnicities, so it might be difficult to know where to begin when it comes to eating healthy. Sebenarnyakan, most of us have a tendency to put off healthier diets since we are addicted to the tasty, fatty foods that we consume on a daily basis as well as due to the misconception that healthy foods are bland. BUT we should definitely prioritise the nutritional content of our meals in addition to its taste — lagi pun, health is our wealth.
However, if you’re concerned about turning your diet 180°, you may simply enhance your health and wellness by making a few little dietary modifications first. Nak tahu caranya? Just get comfortable, and keep on reading – cause today we’re here to list some of the foods that you can start including in your diet this 2023, to be healthier while also enjoying the deliciousness of these health-foods.
1. Japanese Okinawan Sweet Potato
If you’re an anime lover, you’re probably already familiar with the Okinawan sweet potato – the gorgeous purple potatoes.
Okinawan sweet potatoes are not only visually appealing, but they are also high in antioxidants and other vital nutrients, which provide a range of health benefits. The most crucial benefit would be minimising the risk of cancers – since antioxidants reduce the level of free radicals in our body, that indirectly reduces our risk of getting any types of cancer, or even cardiovascular diseases. So, remember to have okinawan potato more often, mulai hari ni ok.
2. Gooseberries
Gooseberry is a yellowish-green fruit that is commonly used in the preparation of preserves and desserts. If you’ve never tasted a gooseberry, you may be sceptical whether it’s worth trying.
But let me tell you something, it’s worth it!
Gooseberries are abundant in fibre and vitamins, making them an excellent source of nutrition. Fibre consumption is closely linked to a lower risk of heart disease, and together with potassium, which is also found in gooseberries, are believed to reduce cardiovascular morbidities. If you have a family history of cardiovascular disease, you should definitely try to include this underrated Asian fruit in your diet, ok Sebab it’s full of nutritious goodness.
3. Lentils
If you enjoy curry, you’re likely familiar with lentils, which serve as the foundation of your favourite daal. Sedapnya!
Lentils are delicious legume seeds that come in a multitude of colours and are often used in Asian food preparation. These holy legumes are a great source of protein for vegetarians (or non-vegetarians) as they include 26% of their calories from protein, and reported to be the third-highest levels of protein among the legumes’ family. Wow, tak sangka kan? Since protein intake is essential for building lean muscles, feel free to include lentils in your lunch or dinner if you’re seeking to develop some lean muscle with low-calories for a ‘new you’ in 2023. Tapi, don’t forget to workout also, tau (kalau tak, don’t expect to see any firm-looking muscles).
4. Red Bell Peppers
Red bell peppers, also known as capsicums, have a flavour that is both earthy and faintly sweet. These bright-looking veggies are also reported to be more nutritious than their ‘younger cousin’ — green bell peppers.
There is no denying that these peppers make your meals visually-appealing, but they are also a powerhouse of nutrients. With about 13% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A in each half-cup, red bell peppers are a fantastic source of vitamin A. The maintenance of a healthy eyesight, particularly night vision, depends heavily on vitamin A – as it improves retinal health and reduces the onset of cataracts.
Simply incorporate a few red pepper chunks into your favourite salad or vegetable mixture to have a delightfully nourishing meal for a healthier you. Senang kan?
5. Dates
Dates are a type of distinctively sweet fruit produced by the date palm tree, originating from the middle-east, and they are exceptionally popular during the month of Ramadan.
Ever wonder why dates are often eaten during the fasting month? It’s due to their remarkable health benefits, one of which being their ability to facilitate digestion. Dates are known to improve bowel movement frequency and any associated discomfort due to their high fibre content. If you’ve ever suffered from constipation, you know how negatively it may impact your overall mood and comfort level. So, simply snack on 1-2 dates a day, or incorporate in your favourite dessert, for a healthy bowel movement — for a happy you in 2023.
6. Salmon
Salmon is a type of oily fish which is widely known as a ‘brain food’, thanks to its high level of docosahexaenoic acids, aka DHA which is a type of omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-3 fatty acids have been reported to slow down age-related brain decline and may even boost cognition, according to previous studies. In addition to enhancing memory and brain function, DHA may also help manage depression by balancing out the neurotransmitters linked to the condition, making you feel better psychologically.
Cuba lah include salmon in your diet if you’re an expecting mother to help your kid develop cognitive skills. If you’re an ageing person, follow the same steps to prevent developing any brain-related disorders in the future.
Ingat! Balanced-diet and moderation is the key.
If you’re looking to start the new year off on a healthier note, then consider adding these 6 nutritious foods to your diet. Including these foods in your diet can provide notable health benefits, such as improved digestion, better heart health, and more.
However, it’s important to remember that a balanced diet is key to maintaining good health. So, while these 6 foods are certainly nutritious, and can help you achieve a healthier you in 2023, be sure to include other healthy foods as well. And don’t forget, an occasional treat is ok je untuk makan!
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Disclaimer: Our content is strictly for educational and informational purposes only. Healthlah.com does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
