Healthy Eating 2013

2013 Food Trends

With a new year, comes new resolutions and promises to eat better and exercise more frequently. Even if you have healthy eating habits, it’s still important to try and eat cleaner and always put variety and new nutrients into our diet.

In the last few years, there has been new information and trends for the public to try that have provided plenty of options on how to lose weight and become healthier. People are now eating once overlooked foods, including kale, quinoa, lentils, sweet potatoes, and flax seeds to reduce their risk of common diseases and easily manage their weight.

Coconut Water

You can never have enough of a variety in your diet and new flavors that create more meals and snacks. This year, there are a few favorites people are trying for a healthier year. Coconut water is becoming increasingly popular for its health benefits and delicious taste. It’s a smooth, cool option for something to drink without any additives or preservatives. Coconut water comes straight from the center of a coconut and has anti-aging, anti-carcinogenic enzymes. Coconut water is also proven to increase digestion and has contains more calcium, iron, zinc, and magnesium than other fruits.

Kombucha

Another new, natural diet trend is kombucha, which is a great alternative for sweetened tea. The fermented tea is a symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast and it contains active enzymes, amino acids, and organic acids. Kambucha is gaining popularity among dieters, and the drink is hailed as a “cure all”. Many kombucha lovers have taken to home-brewing the tea themselves.

Acai Berries

The acai berry is a favorite for many for its delicious flavor and number of vitamins it contains. The acai berry is used in many different forms for consumption, including in juices, smoothies, or for a sweet topping. Its seedy taste can be compared to a raspberry or strawberry and has many benefits with its powerful antioxidants. The acai berry is considered a “super fruit” due to its reputed ability to help prevent diseases like cancer and heart disease. It’s such a healthy ingredient that it’s even used in beauty products, shampoos and conditioners.

Chai Powder

You’ll likely begin to see more chia powder products on your grocery store shelves in the coming year as the chia seed is jam packed with fiber, protein, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids. It’s a great alternative to granola for use in yogurt and smoothies. Those who love the flavor can use to make energy bars. Chia powder is derived from 100 percent sprouted organic chia seeds and due to its high fiber content, is great for controlling hunger in a safe way. Since chai powder is vegan, kosher and gluten-free, those with dietary restrictions have especially enjoyed using the product in their meals.

Kale

Kale

is quickly becoming a replacement for spinach in some people’s diets. It’s most commonly used in green smoothies, salads, soups, and casseroles. The benefits of kale are some of the highest for most natural foods. It’s rich in vitamin k, which may reduce the risk of cancer. Kale also contains a high amount of calcium, fiber, and vitamin C, and iron. Those craving a salty treat can also dash kale with sea salt and bake for crunchy kale chips.

By exploring the latest healthy food trends in 2013, you’ll be able to expand your diet and increase your consumption of nutrients and vitamins to make for a healthier, fitter you in 2013.

Jenny Lomax is a freelance dieting and healthy living blogger.

Triple Acai Berry Smoothie

Free Recipe Card: Acai Berry Smoothie