I had an interesting conversation with my friend today. I confessed that I did not think I was very healthy given that I was about to consume one too many diet cokes for the week and another cookie. She confessed to me that she had just raided the candy isle at the grocery store. Then she said, “I am pretty sure I am going to have osteoporosis, diabetes, or cancer by the time I am 50 and that is being optimistic.” I laughed. However, as I thought about what she said I wondered what my lack of milk intake and excessive amounts of diet coke was really doing to my health.

Do you ever feel this way? It is sometimes hard to find a balance between finding joy in your life and just living it while at the same time being healthy. For some of us, a strict regimen can make life miserable. On the other hand, neglecting our health can be careless. That being said, it is helpful to find a middle ground when it comes to your health. One way to do this is to focus on certain foods that can positively impact your health. Some of these foods you may already eat. Others, you can simply start adding to your diet. In doing so you will find that you will feel better and you will also prevent future diseases.

Here is a list of the top 20 power foods that you should start adding TODAY to your diet!

1. Almonds. Try 2 ounces a day for heart health.
2. Apples. Reduces the risk of strokes and heart attacks.
3. Avocado. For vitamin E, fiber, folic acid, and potassium.
4. Beets. Low in calories and a lot of folic acid.
5. Blueberries. One of the best antidotes for stress.
6. Broccoli. To fight cancer.
7. Cherries. Also fights cancer and normalizes your sleep cycle.
8. Chicory. Vitamin A for a strong immune system.
9. Cocoa. Helps with heart disease and cancer.
10. Cranberries. Help to lower cholesterol.
11. Eggs. For energy, protein, and vitamin B.
12. Flaxseed. Helps with depression.
13. Garlic. Fights cancer and is good for your cholesterol and heart.
14. Ginger. High in antioxidants and great at preventing many diseases.
15. Honey. Slows bacteria growth.
16. Kale. Very high in antioxidants and helps fight cancer.
17. Olive Oil. Reduces high blood pressure.
18. Onions. Reduces risk of several types of cancer.
19. Oranges. Helps with infection and inflammation.
20. Pumpkins. Good source of beta-carotene.

Consider implementing these foods into your diet today. Think of them as your prescription to better health and a disease free future!