5 Healthy Foods You Should Never Eat By Themselves

5 Healthy Foods You Should Never Eat by Themselves

When it comes to meals, you want to be sure you have enough protein, fats, and carbohydrates, so that you are not wanting to reach for something quick and unhealthy an hour later. We created a list of our favorite snack and meal combinations that will keep you healthy and satisfied!

Apples

An apple a day keeps the doctor away, right? Apples are rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, dietary fiber, phytonutrients, and antioxidants. One medium apple has about 95 calories, but 19 grams of sugar. Although it is natural sugar, your best bet is to put it in combination with protein.

Combine Apple and Peanut Butter

The combination of the healthy fats and protein in peanut butter will create the perfect snack. One tablespoon of peanut butter and one medium apple will give you four grams of protein and still be less than 200 calories.

Bananas

Similar to apples, medium bananas have natural sugars, clocking in at 14 grams. Bananas are a great source of dietary fiber and potassium. 

Combine Bananas and Greek Yogurt

Bananas already have the power to reduce muscle soreness but combining bananas with protein-packed Greek yogurt can speed recovery. It's important to eat a post-workout snack that combines proteins and healthy carbohydrates, such as bananas and Greek yogurt.

Carrots

Although carrots are a vegetable, they do contain natural sugars! This healthy carbohydrate is a perfect mid-day snack if combined with healthy fats and protein.

Combine Carrots and Hummus

Hummus, which is made with chickpeas, olive oil, garlic, and tahini, will give you protein and a dose of vitamins and minerals. In addition to the protein, you get a punch of heart-healthy fats. This snack is the perfect protein, carbohydrate, and fat combination.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that can help reduce the amount of free radicals that form in the body, which are linked to cancer.

Combine Tomatoes and Beans

This combination can help your brain and muscles function better by boosting your iron intake. You can increase your iron intake by combining it with a healthy source of vitamin C, such as tomatoes. Iron is important for transporting oxygen to the muscles and the brain.

Whole Wheat Bread

When you choose bread, opt for whole wheat or Ezekiel bread, as opposed to white bread. This way, you will get a healthy serving of whole grains. However, combining your slice of bread with a source of healthy fat could keep you fuller longer.

Combine Whole Wheat Bread and Avocado

Have you ever heard of avocado toast? Smash half of an avocado and spread it on a slice of whole wheat bread. Top with salt and pepper and you are all set! Avocado is filled with healthy fats and is the perfect spread for your bread!