Chicken breast (Protein)
Fish (e.g., salmon, tilapia, cod) (Omega-3 fatty acids, Protein)
Lean cuts of beef or pork (e.g., sirloin, tenderloin) (Protein)
Kielbasa sausage (Protein)
Turkey breast (Protein)
Eggs (Protein, Vitamin D)
Tofu (Protein, Iron)
Canned tuna or salmon (Omega-3 fatty acids, Protein)
Carrots (Vitamin A, Fiber)
Lettuce (Vitamin A, Fiber)
Spinach (Iron, Vitamin C)
Tomatoes (Vitamin C, Antioxidants)
Sweet potatoes (Vitamin A, Fiber)
Other root vegetables (e.g., parsnips, turnips) (Vitamin C, Fiber)
Squash (Vitamin A, Fiber)
Bell peppers (Vitamin C, Fiber)
Broccoli (Vitamin C, Fiber)
Cauliflower (Vitamin C, Fiber)
Peas (Protein, Fiber)
Corn (Fiber)
Green beans (Fiber, Vitamin C)
Zucchini (Fiber, Vitamin C)
Onion (Vitamin C, Fiber)
Garlic (Antioxidants, Vitamin B6)
Cabbage (Vitamin C, Fiber)
Herbs (Antioxidants, Flavor)
Lemon (Vitamin C, Flavor)
Cucumber (Hydration, Fiber)
Potatoes (Vitamin C, Fiber)
Apples (Fiber, Antioxidants)
Bananas (Potassium, Fiber)
Oranges (Vitamin C, Fiber)
Grapes (Vitamin C, Antioxidants)
Berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) (Vitamin C, Antioxidants)
Dried fruits (e.g., raisins, apricots) (Fiber, Antioxidants)
Mango (Vitamin C, Fiber)
Pineapple (Vitamin C, Fiber)
Whole grain flour (e.g., whole wheat flour, oat flour) (Fiber, B-Vitamins)
Baking powder (Leavening agent)
Sugar (e.g., brown sugar, coconut sugar) (Sweetener)
Honey (Sweetener)
Brown rice (Fiber, B-Vitamins)
Whole grain bread and pasta (Fiber, B-Vitamins)
Bulgur (Fiber, B-Vitamins)
Quinoa (Protein, Fiber)
Oatmeal (Fiber, B-Vitamins)
Whole grain crackers or snack bars (Fiber, B-Vitamins)
Milk (Calcium, Protein)
Yogurt (Calcium, Protein)
Cheese (Calcium, Protein)
Almond milk (Vitamin E, Calcium)
Soy milk (Protein, Calcium)
Coconut milk (Calcium, Healthy Fats)
Dried fruit (e.g. raisins, apricots)
Nuts and seeds (e.g. almonds, sunflower seeds)
Dark chocolate
Whole grain crackers or snack bars
Yogurt
Cheese
Veggie sticks (e.g. carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers)
Hummus or guacamole with veggie sticks or crackers
Trail mix
Rice cakes
Air-popped popcorn
Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth, regulating muscle contractions, and promoting healthy heart function. It also plays a role in blood clotting and nerve signaling.
Dairy products - protein, calcium, vitamin D
Almonds - healthy fats, protein, fiber
Kale - fiber, calcium, vitamin A
Broccoli - fiber, calcium, vitamin C
Sardines - calcium, protein, omega-3 fatty acids
Tofu - protein, iron, magnesium
Fortified orange juice - fiber, vitamin C, potassium
Fortified cereal - fiber, iron, B vitamins
Fortified soy milk - protein, iron, calcium
Fortified almond milk - healthy fats, protein, calcium
Iron is essential for producing red blood cells and carrying oxygen throughout the body. It also helps support the immune system and maintain energy levels.
Red meat - protein, iron, B vitamins
Poultry - protein, iron, B vitamins
Tofu - protein, iron, magnesium
Lentils - protein, fiber, iron
Chickpeas - protein, fiber, iron
Kidney beans - protein, fiber, iron
Black beans - protein, fiber, iron
Almonds - healthy fats, protein, fiber
Cashews - healthy fats, protein, magnesium
Pumpkin seeds - healthy fats, protein, magnesium
Magnesium is essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth, regulating muscle and nerve function, and promoting healthy heart function. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels and blood pressure.
Almonds - healthy fats, protein, fiber
Cashews - healthy fats, protein, magnesium
Spinach - iron, calcium, vitamin K
Swiss chard - fiber, calcium, vitamin C
Black beans - protein, fiber, iron
Pumpkin seeds - healthy fats, protein, magnesium
Sunflower seeds - healthy fats, protein, fiber
Figs - fiber, potassium, calcium
Avocado - healthy fats, fiber, potassium
Dark chocolate - iron, fiber, magnesium
Phosphorus is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth, regulating energy production and storage, and promoting healthy DNA and cell membranes.
Dairy products - protein, calcium, vitamin D
Red meat - protein, iron, B vitamins
Poultry - protein, iron, B vitamins
Fish - protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D
Almonds - healthy fats, protein, fiber
Brazil nuts - healthy fats, protein, magnesium
Pumpkin seeds - healthy fats, protein, magnesium
Sunflower seeds - healthy fats, protein, fiber
Quinoa - protein, fiber, iron
Lentils - protein, fiber, iron
Potassium is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure, regulating fluid balance, and promoting healthy heart and muscle function. It also helps prevent cramps and muscle weakness.
Bananas - fiber, potassium, vitamin B6
Oranges - fiber, potassium, vitamin C
Cantaloupe - fiber, potassium, vitamin C
Sweet potatoes - fiber, potassium, vitamin C
Spinach - iron, calcium, vitamin K
Tomato sauce - fiber, potassium, vitamin C
White beans - protein, fiber, iron
Lima beans - protein, fiber, iron
Kidney beans - protein, fiber, iron
Peas - fiber, protein, vitamin C
Sodium is essential for maintaining the proper balance of fluids in the body and helps regulate blood pressure.
Table salt - often added to processed foods, cured meats, and snack foods
Processed foods - contain high amounts of added sodium
Cured meats - ham, bacon, and sausage
Canned soups - convenient but often high in sodium
Canned vegetables - also often high in sodium
Condiments - ketchup, soy sauce, and pickles
Snack foods - crackers, chips, and pretzels
Zinc is important for maintaining a healthy immune system, wound healing, and growth and development.
Oysters - also high in protein and vitamin B12
Red meat - also high in iron and protein
Poultry - also high in iron and protein
Beans - black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas
Nuts - almonds, cashews, and peanuts
Whole grains - oatmeal, brown rice, and whole wheat bread
Fortified cereal - often fortified with vitamins and minerals
Dairy products - milk, cheese, and yogurt
Dark chocolate - also high in iron and magnesium
Shellfish - shrimp, crab, and lobster
Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones which regulate metabolism and maintain healthy growth and development.
Seafood - tuna, salmon, and cod
Dairy products - milk and yogurt
Iodized salt - often used in cooking and baking
Eggs - also high in protein and vitamin D
Fortified bread - often fortified with vitamins and minerals
Fortified cereal - often fortified with vitamins and minerals
Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and regulating various bodily functions. It also helps to promote feelings of fullness and can aid in weight management.
Meat - beef, pork, and chicken also high in iron and vitamin B12
Poultry - chicken and turkey also high in niacin and selenium
Fish - salmon, tuna, and sardines also high in omega-3 fatty acids
Dairy - milk, cheese, and yogurt also high in calcium and vitamin D
Eggs - also high in choline and vitamin B12
Legumes - beans, lentils, and chickpeas also high in fiber and iron
Soy products - tofu, tempeh, and edamame also high in calcium and magnesium
Nuts - almonds, peanuts, and cashews also high in healthy fats and fiber
Seeds - chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds also high in iron and zinc
Quinoa - also high in fiber and magnesium.
Fiber is important for maintaining digestive health, preventing constipation, and regulating blood sugar levels. It also promotes feelings of fullness and can aid in weight management.
Whole grains - brown rice, whole wheat bread, and oatmeal
Beans and lentils - also high in protein and iron
Nuts and seeds - almonds and chia seeds also high in healthy fats and protein
Fruits - berries, apples, and bananas also high in vitamins and antioxidants
Vegetables - carrots, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts also high in vitamins and minerals
Popcorn - a low calorie and low-fat snack option
Sweet potatoes - also high in vitamin A and potassium
Artichokes - also high in vitamin C and magnesium
Avocados - also high in healthy fats and vitamin E
Peas - also high in protein and vitamin
Health Benefits: Healthy fats are essential for heart health, brain function, and hormone regulation. They also help to reduce inflammation and promote feelings of fullness.
Avocados - also high in fiber and vitamin E
Nuts and seeds - almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds also high in protein and minerals
Olive oil - also high in antioxidants
Salmon and other fatty fish - also high in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D
Chia seeds - also high in fiber and protein
Coconut oil - also high in medium-chain triglycerides
Peanut butter - also high in protein and fiber
Dark chocolate - also high in antioxidants and magnesium
Eggs - also high in protein and vitamin B12
Grass-fed butter or ghee - also high in conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)
Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and are necessary for proper brain and muscle function.
Whole grains - such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, and oatmeal also high in fiber and vitamins
Fruits - such as apples, bananas, and berries also high in fiber and vitamins
Vegetables - such as potatoes, corn, and carrots also high in fiber and vitamins
Legumes - such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas also high in protein and fiber
Dairy products - such as milk and yogurt also high in calcium and protein
Sweet potatoes - also high in fiber and vitamins
Quinoa - also high in protein and minerals
Honey - also high in antioxidants
Pasta - also high in energy-providing carbohydrates
Rice - also high in energy-providing carbohydrates
Water is essential for maintaining hydration, regulating body temperature, and supporting various bodily functions such as digestion and circulation.
Tap water - a readily available source of hydration
Mineral water - contains additional minerals such as magnesium and calcium
Coconut water - also contains potassium and electrolytes
Infused water - with fruits or herbs for added flavor and nutrients
Soup and broths - also contain hydration and added nutrients from the ingredients
Fruits - such as watermelon and strawberries also high in vitamins and hydration
Vegetables - such as cucumbers and lettuce also high in vitamins and hydration.
Fruits
Apples (vitamin C, fiber)
Apricots (vitamin A, potassium)
Avocados (healthy fats, fiber)
Blackberries (vitamin C, fiber)
Blueberries (vitamin C, antioxidants)
Cantaloupe (vitamin C, potassium)
Cherries (vitamin C, fiber)
Cranberries (vitamin C, antioxidants)
Dates (fiber, potassium)
Figs (fiber, calcium)
Grapefruit (vitamin C)
Grapes (vitamin C, antioxidants)
Guava (vitamin C)
Honeydew melon (vitamin C, potassium)
Kiwi (vitamin C, potassium)
Mangoes (vitamin C)
Oranges (vitamin C)
Papaya (vitamin C)
Peaches (vitamin C, potassium)
Pears (fiber, vitamin C)
Pineapple (vitamin C, manganese)
Plums (vitamin C, fiber)
Pomegranate (vitamin C, antioxidants)
Raspberries (vitamin C, fiber)
Strawberries (vitamin C)
Artichokes (fiber, vitamin C)
Asparagus (vitamin K, folate)
Bell peppers (vitamin C)
Broccoli (vitamin C, vitamin K)
Brussels sprouts (vitamin C, vitamin K)
Carrots (vitamin A)
Cauliflower (vitamin C, vitamin K)
Celery (vitamin K, potassium)
Collard greens (vitamin A, vitamin K)
Cucumbers (vitamin K, hydration)
Eggplant (fiber, potassium)
Endive (vitamin K)
Garlic (vitamin B6, antioxidants)
Green beans (vitamin C)
Kale (vitamin A, vitamin K)
Leeks (vitamin K, folate)
Lettuce (vitamin K)
Mushrooms (vitamin D, potassium)
Mustard greens (vitamin A, vitamin K)
Onions (vitamin C, flavonoids)
Parsley (vitamin K, antioxidants)
Peas (vitamin C, fiber)
Radishes (vitamin C, antioxidants)
Squash (vitamin A, potassium)
Spinach (vitamin A, iron)
Sweet potatoes (vitamin A, potassium)
Tomatoes (vitamin C)
Turnips (vitamin C, potassium)
Zucchini (vitamin C, potassium)
Protein
Salmon (omega-3 fatty acids, protein)
Tuna (protein)
Mackerel (omega-3 fatty acids, protein)
Sardines (omega-3 fatty acids, protein)
Chicken and turkey (protein)
Eggs (protein)
Red meat (protein)
Poultry (protein)
Seafood (protein)
Beef (protein, iron)
Pork (protein)
Lamb (protein)
Bison (protein)
Venison (protein)
Buffalo (protein)
Turkey bacon (protein)
Chicken sausage (protein)
Almonds (protein, healthy fats, fiber, magnesium)
Hazelnuts (protein, healthy fats, vitamin E)
Peanuts (protein, healthy fats, fiber)
Sunflower seeds (protein, healthy fats, vitamin E)
Cashews (protein, healthy fats, iron)
Pumpkin seeds (protein, healthy fats, magnesium)
Chia seeds (protein, healthy fats, fiber, calcium)
Walnuts (protein, healthy fats, omega-3 fatty acids)
Flaxseeds (protein, healthy fats, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids)
Pecans (protein, healthy fats, fiber)
Macadamia nuts (protein, healthy fats, fiber)
Brazil nuts (protein, healthy fats, selenium)
Milk (calcium, protein)
Yogurt (calcium, protein)
Cheese (calcium, protein)
Cottage cheese (calcium, protein)
Buttermilk (calcium, protein)
Fortified tofu (calcium, protein)
Kefir (calcium, protein)
Ice cream (calcium)
Butter (calcium)
Whipping cream (calcium)
Grains
Oatmeal (fiber, complex carbohydrates)
Brown rice (fiber, complex carbohydrates)
Quinoa (protein, fiber, complex carbohydrates)
Barley (fiber, complex carbohydrates)
Buckwheat (protein, fiber, complex carbohydrates)
Millet (fiber, complex carbohydrates)
Corn (fiber, complex carbohydrates)
Whole grain bread (fiber, complex carbohydrates)
Whole grain pasta (fiber, complex carbohydrates)
Bulgur (fiber, complex carbohydrates)
Farro (fiber, complex carbohydrates)
Amaranth (protein, fiber, complex carbohydrates)
Teff (protein, fiber, complex carbohydrates)
Wild rice (fiber, complex carbohydrates)
Oils and Fats
Olive oil (monounsaturated fatty acids)
Avocado oil (monounsaturated fatty acids)
Coconut oil (medium-chain fatty acids)
Flaxseed oil (omega-3 fatty acids)
Canola oil (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids)
Peanut oil (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids)
Sesame oil (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids)
Walnut oil (omega-3 fatty acids)
Ghee (butter oil, saturated fatty acids)
Lard (animal fat, saturated fatty acids)
Bacon fat (animal fat, saturated fatty acids)
Tallow (animal fat, saturated fatty acids)
Drinks
Water (hydration)
Green tea (antioxidants)
Black tea (antioxidants)
Herbal teas (antioxidants)
Milk (calcium)
Fortified plant-based milks (calcium)
100% fruit juice (vitamins and minerals)
Smoothies (vitamins and minerals)
Sports drinks (electrolytes)
Coconut water (electrolytes)
Coffee (antioxidants)
Red wine (antioxidants)
White wine (antioxidants)
Beer (B vitamins)
Kombucha (probiotics)
Bone broth (minerals)
Miscellaneous
Honey (antioxidants)
Dark chocolate (antioxidants)
Dried fruits (fiber, vitamins, minerals)
Fermented foods (probiotics)
Herbs and spices (antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties)
Green tea (antioxidants)
Black tea (antioxidants)
Ginger (anti-inflammatory properties)
Turmeric (anti-inflammatory properties)
Coconut oil (healthy fats)
Olive oil (healthy fats)
Avocado (healthy fats)
Sweet potatoes (vitamin A, potassium)
Quinoa (protein, fiber, iron)
Brown rice (fiber, vitamins, minerals)
Lentils (protein, fiber, iron)
Chia seeds (protein, healthy fats)
Almonds (protein, healthy fats)
Cashews (protein, healthy fats)
Peanuts (protein, healthy fats)
Sunflower seeds (protein, healthy fats)
Hazelnuts (protein, healthy fats)
Walnuts (omega-3 fatty acids, protein)
Salmon (omega-3 fatty acids, protein)
Mackerel (omega-3 fatty acids, protein)
Sardines (omega-3 fatty acids, protein)
Eggs (protein)
Yogurt (calcium)
Milk (calcium)
Cheese (calcium)
Foods to Limit
Processed foods (such as canned soup and frozen dinners)
Fast food
Chips and snacks
Pickles and olives
Soy sauce
Bouillon cubes
Salad dressing
Baking soda
Deli meat