The Authoritative Top 10 Healthiest Food List

This month’s article presents a novel take on the popular “top 10 food list” template: I hired ten nutritionists and dietitians to give their top ten recommendations and combined all their insights.

For each food on the combined list, I summarize the benefits it brings to the table, list its key nutrients, give some serving recommendations, share the suggested consumption frequency, and wrap up with some scientific literature on its biggest health benefits.

Here are the top five as an appetizer:

Legumes emerged as the surprise winner, earning a recommendation from each of our ten experts. Their high-quality plant protein, high fiber content, and probiotic properties carried them to victory.

Tied for second place, we have berries and nuts, each with nine votes. Berries shine for their high antioxidant content and surprisingly low sugar content for how great they taste. Nuts offer something completely different in the form of healthy fats and plenty of plant protein.

Dark leafy greens just missed out on the podium with eight votes. Their claim to fame is exceptionally high nutrient density and diversity. And yes, you can learn to love your greens by mastering the art of salads.

Rounding out the top five, we have fermented foods as recommended by seven of the ten experts. These tasty foods are great for gut health, which is increasingly linked to mental health via the gut-brain axis.

There are eight more (including a thrilling 4-way tie for tenth place). You can check out the full article here.

Have an HHWPS weekend!

Schalk