Eating healthy is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but many foods that are considered healthy can be high in calories. Although eating these types of foods can add extra calories to your daily diet, they can also provide essential nutrients that are necessary for good health. Here are five examples of foods that are both healthy and high in calories.
Nuts
Nuts are an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals. They also contain a good amount of dietary fiber which helps you feel full longer and helps regulate your blood sugar levels.
Nuts are high in calories however, so it’s important to practice portion control when consuming them. A handful of nuts (about one ounce) is enough to get the health benefits without going overboard on calories.
Avocados
Avocados are packed with essential nutrients like vitamin K, folate and potassium. They also contain healthy monounsaturated fats which can help reduce cholesterol levels. Avocados are relatively high in calories due to their fat content, but they can be a great addition to a balanced diet.
Cheese
Cheese is a great source of calcium and other vitamins and minerals like phosphorus and vitamin B12. It’s also high in protein and contains beneficial probiotics which can help promote digestive health. Cheese is quite high in calories though, so it’s important to eat it in moderation.
Whole Grains
Whole grains like oatmeal, quinoa and brown rice contain plenty of vitamins, minerals and fiber which can help keep you full longer and regulate your blood sugar levels. Whole grains tend to be higher in calories than refined grains, so portion sizes should still be kept in check when consuming them.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate contains antioxidants which help protect the body from free radical damage. It’s also been linked with improved heart health due to its flavonoid content. Dark chocolate does have a decent amount of calories though, so it should be eaten sparingly.
Conclusion:
When it comes to finding foods that are both healthy and high in calories there are many options available. Nuts, avocados, cheese, whole grains and dark chocolate can all provide beneficial nutrients while adding extra calories to your diet. However, it’s important to practice portion control when eating these types of foods as they can quickly add up if consumed too much.