Chickpeas
One cup of chickpeas packs an impressive 11 grams of protein and 10 grams of fiber (one third of the minimum recommended daily fiber intake, which is about 30 grams). They’re also rich in calcium and phosphate, both of which are important for bone health.
Rolled oats
Rolled oats are packed with manganese, iron, folate, B vitamins, and other important nutrients. Regular intake of the soluble fiber in oats has also been shown to help reduce LDL cholesterol (that’s the bad kind).
Sweet potatoes
Although they’re as sweet as their name suggests, the sugar in sweet potatoes is released slowly into your bloodstream, thanks to the fiber that comes along with it. The starchy root vegetable is also high in vitamin C, which helps boost immunity, and beta carotene, which is linked to reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
Butternut pumpkin
My favourite winter veg! Because butternut pumpkin is starchy but relatively low in calories, it can be a great swap for more calorie-dense potatoes and sweet potatoes if you’re trying to lose weight. It’s also high in vitamin E, which promotes healthy skin. Plus, it makes great low calorie comfort food (mashed, roasted, steamed – whatever!)
Black Beans
Beans are a good source of protein and fiber, the two key nutrients that promote satiety. They help you feel full longer and can prevent you from overeating at the next meal and snacking unnecessarily between meals.
Quinoa
While it’s technically a seed, not a grain (making it naturally gluten-free), quinoa comes with the same heart-healthy benefits as other whole grains, and works the same way in recipes like stir-fries, salads, and grain bowls.
Brown rice
Brown rice contains the germ, bran, and endosperm of the grain, which means it’s got more fiber, protein, and nutrients than white rice (which is just the endosperm, with the germ and bran removed). Its high fiber content makes it great for satiety and weight maintenance, and it’s got a slew of other important nutrients, such as, iron, zinc, selenium, and B vitamins.
Clara
