10 Surprisingly Healthy Processed Foods

Everyone knows that healthy foods are good for the body, but there are a few processed foods that are great for us too. Sure, I’m not telling you to consume processed foods over wholesome foods. But I think it’s useful to know the list of the healthy processed foods. Though these foods might be altered from their original state, for the most part they are good for you.

So, if you are trying to drop a few unwanted pounds or you just want to know how to buy healthier options at the supermarket, here are ten surprisingly healthy processed foods to eat with wholesome foods.

1 Organic, plain Greek yogurt

Organic, plain Greek yogurt is one of the healthiest processed foods out there. It doesn’t contain added sugar, chemicals, fillers, pesticides, or added hormones.

More: 7 Surprising Uses for Yogurt

But it contains protein, probiotics, potassium, calcium, Vitamin B12, and Vitamin D that are all essential for your body. Add some fresh fruit to your plain Greek yogurt and you will have the healthiest snack ever.

2 Unsweetened coconut or almond milk

Unsweetened coconut and almond milks are some of my favorite healthy processed foods. They don’t contain sugar, gluten, artificial ingredients, dairy, soy, and MSG, but contain calcium, Vitamin B12, and Vitamin D than dairy milk.

More: 8 Great Reasons to Eat Pomegranates

Don’t opt for regular and light versions because they contain added sugar. Opt for unsweetened coconut or almond milk instead.

3 Raw nut butters

Raw nut butters are surprisingly healthy processed food that you can eat without worrying about your waistline, though moderation is the key here. Raw nut butters contain raw nuts and they typically don’t have added sugar or salt.

More: 7 Wonderful Benefits of Cocoa Butter

However, make sure you check the labels before buying any raw nut butter.

4 Organic coffee

Organic coffee is rich in magnesium, B vitamins, brain-boosting caffeine and has liver cleansing properties. Since coffee plants are one of the most heavily sprayed crops, always buy organic coffee in order to avoid pesticides.

More: 7 Scientifically Proven Benefits of Drinking Coffee

Even though you will have to pay more, your health is worth it. Organic coffee has been shown to reduce the risk of different types of cancer, including colon cancer and prostate cancer. Of course, moderation is still important.

Read also – 7 Easy Ways to Eat a Low-Carb Breakfast

5 Cocoa powder

Cocoa powder has processed cocoa beans and nothing more. Believe it or not, but cocoa powder has been proven to reduce stress, blood pressure, sugar cravings, and can even improve your skin. You can add cocoa powder to your oatmeal, smoothies, or Greek yogurt. Or, make your own hot chocolate to beat those cravings.

6 Flax meal

One of the best healthy processed foods, flax meal is just ground whole flax seeds. This powdery meal is easier to use and it can enhance nutrient absorption.

Flax meal is rich in protein, omega 3 fats, fiber, and it doesn’t contain sugar or gluten. Moreover, flax meal is incredibly delicious.

Read also – 10 Superfoods That Boost Brain Power

7 Organic salsa

Organic salsa has organic vegetables and fruits, and many brands contain no additives. Organic salsa is high in vitamins and low in calories, and it can turn any boring meal like omelet, salad, or steamed veggies into a tasty meal in a jiff.

While it’s healthier to make your own salsa, when you are in a hurry, eating organic salsa isn’t the end of the world.

8 Mustard

Mustard is a well-know condiment that can liven up any meal in no time. One of the best things about mustard is that it’s extremely low in calories.

Moreover, many versions contain no preservatives, sugar, and excess sodium. Add mustard to your favorite meal to speed up your metabolism, curb your cravings, and improve your digestion.

9 Superfood products

Superfood products are easy to use, they are quite delicious and highly energizing. Consuming superfood products is a fun and tasty way to get more vitamins and essential minerals into your day.

Just make sure you buy a high quality brand without preservatives, sugars, and fillers. Some superfood products contain antioxidants too.

10 Iced tea

Even though it’s much better to make your own iced tea, it’s hard to do it when you are constantly on the go. Many store-bought iced teas are sweetened with artificial substances and some of them are heavily processed, which is why it’s crucial to read labels to find lightly processed brands.

Look for brands that use only natural sweeteners such as honeysuckle. Most of the time, iced tea is healthier than store-bought juices and sodas that are packed with added sugars and sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup that is harmful to our health.

Read also – 10 Foods to Eat to Burn More Calories

Now you know that not all processed foods are bad for you, though wholesome foods are the best options. I usually consume 85% wholesome foods and 15% healthy processed foods. Eating raw foods only isn’t as simple as many dieters say, especially if you have a busy schedule. Buying lightly-processed foods is a good way out. How often do you consume processed foods? Do you read labels when grocery shopping?