Dark Chocolate

“Dark chocolate is a must-have in my daily repertoire. I always go for a square of at least 70% cocoa and lately have been enjoying 85% topped with a teaspoon of peanut butter. Studies have found that one ounce of high quality dark chocolate (at least 70%) may decrease blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke so I say, bring it on!”

Holley Grainger, MS, RD, culinary nutritionist

Nuts & Seeds

“Since I eat mostly plant-based protein, I stock up on nuts & seeds. Not only do they give me protein, they also have satisfying healthy fats and fiber. I stir them in my oatmeal, puree them for sandwich spreads, toss them into salads, chop them as a pasta topping, and sprinkle them into dark chocolate bark.”

Dawn Jackson Blatner, RDN, Author of The Flexitarian Diet

Hummus

“Hummus is a daily food for me. I am not a huge fan of raw veggies. Regardless, I try to get in four servings a day. Dipping them in hummus gives my boring veggies a boost of flavor. Not only that, I get in some extra fiber and protein by adding the hummus.”

Jim White RD, ACSM HFI, spokesman for Academy for Nutrition and Dietetics, owner of Jim White Fitness & Nutrition Studios

Blueberries

“I enjoy blueberries daily because for only about 80 calories in 1 cup of blueberries, blueberries top the charts for antioxidant content compared to other fruits. One cup delivers 14% of the recommended daily dose of fiber and nearly a quarter of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. The synergy of these nutrients protects our hearts and cells against cancer. Frozen blueberries make it possible to enjoy summer sweetness during the winter months.”

Jennifer McDaniel, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD, Food & Nutrition Expert

Hot Water With Lemon

“I start most days with hot water and lemon instead of caffeine as it doesn’t agree with me. The lemon water gently wakes up my digestive tract and gets me ready for the day. The lemon offers flavor as well as anti-inflammatory and immune boosting nutrients.”

Katie Cavuto, MS, RD, {Nourish.Breathe.Thrive}

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