As 2020 draws near, many people are committing themselves to eating better in the new year. If boosting your overall health is one of your goals for the new year, you are going to want to make sure that your diet is rich in nutritious foods. Here are four foods to focus on this year for better health:

Whole Grains

While carbs get a bad rap, the truth is that whole grain carbohydrates are an essential part of any healthy diet. Whole grains protect against a variety of illnesses and diseases, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancers. These grains will also deliver energy to get you through the day. Whole grains to consider adding to your diet include cereals, brown rice, quinoa, and oats.

Calcium-Rich Foods

Eating foods that are rich in calcium will promote strong bones and teeth. This is especially important as you age and bones begin to become more susceptible to breaks and fractures. As a bonus, focusing on eating plenty of food that is rich in calcium will also boost your dental health, making trips to the dentist more pleasant. Good choices of calcium-rich foods include low-fat dairy products, oranges, cabbages, beans, and cereals that have been fortified with the mineral.

Leafy Greens

The cornerstone of any healthy diet is fresh fruit and vegetables. Not only is produce naturally low in calories and fat, but it is also chock full of heart-healthy nutrients. While any type of fruit and vegetable delivers a nutritional punch, green leafy greens are especially beneficial because of their high concentration of vitamins and minerals. As you head into the new year, be sure to try recipes that include greens such as spinach, kale, cabbage, and romaine. If you get tired of eating the greens as a salad, try throwing them into your morning spinach for an extra healthy start to your day.

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Nuts

Although nuts are known for their high fat content, these little morsels boast an abundance heart-healthy polyunsaturated fats and monounsaturated fats. These fats play a vital role in lowering levels of bad cholesterol. A small amount of nuts goes a long way, so be sure to watch your portion sizes when indulging in this healthy snack.

By filling your plate with good food choices, you are putting yourself on the path to exceptional health as you start this new decade.