If you're a foodie and fitness freak, you’ve got to try some healthy cuisines from around the globe.
Local dishes in all corners of the world are not just delicious, but they're nutritious and healthy too. These foods don’t contain any unprocessed ingredients or artificial flavors; rather they're made with nutrient-dense, disease-fighting, and muscle-building ingredients to help you build the body you’ve always desired.
Read on to learn which culture has the healthiest foods, along with a few cuisines from around the world for fitness enthusiasts.
Which culture has the healthiest foods? Top cuisines to know about
Here's a look at the top eight cuisines from around the world:
#1 Greek
Greek culture is famous for its Mediterranean cuisines, which are mainly made of ingredients such as olive oil, fresh veggies, high-fibre beans, and yogurt that are healthy and loaded with essential nutrients.
Greek foods are considered great when it comes to boosting metabolism, which is good for weight loss. They're also renowned for having a good amount of minerals and vitamins, including omega-3, which helps reduce chances of heart disease and cancer.
#2 Korean
Korea is famous for its unique cuisines, which are mostly protein-rich foods. A quintessential Korean diet typically focuses on low-fat foods that are less processed and more nutrient-rich. The best part – Korean food contains a lot of eggs, fish, and tofu, which not only consists of a good amount of protein but also satiates hunger.
Among the healthiest foods in a Korean diet is kimchi, a fermented vegetable dish known for its amazing probiotic properties. Probiotic foods are good for gut health.
#3 Indian
Indian culture is known for its rich cuisines that have made their mark all around the world.
Almost every country now has Indian restaurants offering mouth-watering and nutritious dishes. Indian food is typically made using spices, herbs, legumes, and lentils – all of which are low in calories and high in nutrients, such as folate and magnesium.
Turmeric, for example, is a very common spice in Indian food and is well-known for its antioxidant properties. It helps prevent inflammation, reduce muscle soreness after a workout, manage cholesterol levels, and promote healthy skin. Cinnamon, coriander, and cardamom are some other Indian spices and herbs known for their health benefits.
#4 Thai
Thai cuisine consists of several healthy ingredients that promote healthy digestion and are good for the immune system too. They're full of flavors and rich in vegetables as well.
Some of the staple spices and flavors in Thai foods include coriander, lemongrass, ginger, and chili peppers, along with onions and garlic, both of which have anti-cancer properties.
#5 Italian
No, we are not talking about extra cheese pizzas and loaded ravioli, but Italian cuisines that focus on fresh vegetables, herbs, and olive oil are all great alternatives.
Traditional Italian delicacies are all about whole grain foods, legumes, seafood, and vegetables, along with lots of seasonings and herbs that make them tasty yet healthy.
Soups, salads, and seafood dishes with lots of vegetables are good options for fitness freaks when trying Italian foods.
#6 Lebanese
One of the most favorite dips around the globe – hummus – is a Lebanese food, which is made of healthy ingredients like chickpeas, garlic, cumin seeds, and lemon.
Alongside pita and hummus, other healthy Lebanese food options include mujadara, labneh, and shakshuka. There're also some high-calorie options, mostly butter or lamb-based foods that you must avoid when on a strict fitness diet. Instead, go for healthy options, such as grilled meats, beans, and potato-garlic dip.
#7 Japanese
Japanese cuisines are mostly rich in fresh vegetables and seafood, which might be the reason why Japanese have the highest average life expectancy rate.
A staple in the Japanese diet is fish, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and has heart-healthy properties. Another healthy Japanese food is miso, which is a fermented soy product loaded with probiotic compounds.
#8 Mexican
Mexican cuisine is rich in vegetables, beans, and fruits. Beans, a staple in traditional Mexican foods, are a good source of micronutrients such as potassium, zinc, iron, and magnesium.
Vegetables such as tomatoes, potatoes, and squash are all loaded with essential minerals and vitamins and are good for your overall physical health.
As you can see, most of these cuisines from around the globe rely on unprocessed ingredients, which makes them healthy, nutritious, and incredibly delicious. Instead of just sticking to your usual diet and chewing salad in every meal, you can enjoy a wide variety of healthy delicacies from around the world and expand your taste buds.