Healthy eating is all about making smart food choices. There’s no need to skip meals, starve yourself, or take all sorts of pills. Some foods are actually more effective for preventing and treating diseases than conventional drugs. For instance, turmeric works better than most antidepressants. Ginger can relieve nausea instantly. Berries and leafy green vegetables fight oxidative stress and reduce cancer risk. Other superfoods, such as jicama, amaranth, golden berries, and fenugreek are still a mystery for most people despite their health benefits.

Want to find out more? Here are the best superfoods you’re not getting enough of:

Aronia Berries

Thousands of years ago, the aronia berry was considered a miracle fruit. Also known as chokeberry, it’s high in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. This tiny fruit packs more anthocyanins than most foods. When consumed as part of a balanced diet, it slows down aging, lowers blood sugar levels, and reduces LDL (bad) cholesterol. Its hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic effects are backed up by science. To reap its benefits, blend into smoothies, eat it raw, or use it in your favorite recipes.

Hemp Seeds

One tablespoon of hemp seeds provides over six grams of protein as well as large amounts of fiber, essential fatty acids, and gamma linoleic acid. These seeds are a complete protein source, so they contain all nine essential amino acids. They also boast high levels of Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA), a fatty acid that restores hormonal balance and lowers blood pressure. The fiber in hemp seeds promotes healthy digestion, flushes out toxins, and stabilizes blood sugar levels.

Leeks

Rich in organosulphur compounds, leeks are among the healthiest foods on earth. When consumed regularly, they lower your risk of gastric cancer, boost immune function, and protect eyesight. One cup provides over 29 percent of the daily recommended intake of vitamin K, which increases longevity and reduces your risk of death from all causes. Leeks are also a great source of kaempferol, an antioxidant with anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties.

Nori

Nori is a staple in the Japanese cuisine for good reason. This alga packs a lot of protein and fiber along with lignans, a group of phytonutrients that inhibit tumor growth. Due to its high protein content (30-50 grams per 100 grams), nori increases your metabolism, supports muscle growth, and promotes the formation of new cells and tissues. It’s also rich in omega-3 essential fats, which fight inflammation and improve blood lipids.

Amaranth

Amaranth was widely used by the Incas as a food and medicine. This grain is similar to quinoa and contains more protein than brown rice, wheat, and oats. One cup delivers about 26 grams of protein, which makes it ideal for vegans and vegetarians. Research shows that amaranth relieves pain and inflammation, lowers cholesterol levels, decreases blood pressure, and prevents cancer. On top of that, it’s gluten free and can be safely consumed by those with celiac disease or wheat allergy’s.

These superfoods can add years to your life and keep you healthy. They’re not only nutritious, but also full of flavor. Include them in your diet to ward off diseases, strengthen your immune system, and reduce the damage caused by free radicals.