DHAKA: Foods with really healthy properties are often relegated to being mere side dishes and find themselves out of the mainstream.

Here are a few of them which you can make a part of your diet and get back all those useful nutrients and antioxidants that help you avoid illnesses ad help keep you fit, reports The Times of India.

Tomatoes: The veggie packs a lot of antioxidants that help in decreasing the risk of arterial aging, heart disease, stroke, memory loss, impotence and wrinkling of the skin.

Broccoli: High in vitamin C and dietary fiber, it also contains multiple nutrients with potent anti-cancer properties.

Fish: Packed with protein, vitamins, and nutrients that can lower blood pressure and help reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke.

Black beans: Low in fat and high in protein and fiber, they have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which combat cardiovascular disease.

Leafy greens: Spinach and cabbage are rich sources of vitamin B and are packed with nutrition. One serving of leafy greens is loaded with fiber, calcium, and virtually your entire day's recommended dosage of beta carotene, a nutrient vital for immune system health.

BDST: 1903 HRS, DEC 27, 2014