Five Weird Foods You Should Know and Eat

By Robin Westen

Sure, when we were kids we turned up our noses at certain foods. But as adults we’re more willing to sample new items. Why not give these five super healthy foods a try?

Wheatgrass This super nutritious ingredient increases red blood cell count, cleanses blood as well as organs and gastrointestinal tract of debris, and stimulates metabolism and the body’s enzyme systems by enriching the blood. It also aids in reducing blood pressure by dilating the blood pathways throughout the body. Don’t let its bitter taste turn you off. If you prefer, disguise the taste by mixing wheatgrass into smoothies.

Marmite A staple on the tables in the UK, Australia and New Zealand, this spread made from yeast extracts, also contains vegetable extract, salt, niacin, thiamin, spice extracts, folic acid, riboflavin, and vitamin B12. It has only nine calories in an average serving and there’s no sugar or saturated fat. It’s also completely vegetarian.

Cod Liver Oil Try to get over its fishy aroma because cod liver oil is packed with vitamins A and D, omega-3 fatty acids with anti-inflammatory properties, and Eicosa Pentaenoic Acid (EPA) which is great for the cardiovascular system and helps reduce inflammation throughout the body. Research has shown that consuming 1 to 2 teaspoons of cod liver oil daily can help to prevent serious diseases such as cancer, diabetes, arthritis, musculoskeletal pain, kidney problems, and high cholesterol.

Kinchee Also known as kimchi, the Korean delicacy is made of fermented cabbage. The dish is loaded with vitamins A, B, and C, but its biggest benefit may be in its “healthy bacteria” called lactobacilli. This good bacterium helps with digestion and seems to help stop and even prevent yeast infections, according to a recent study. And more good news: Some studies show fermented cabbage has compounds that may prevent the growth of cancer.

Calf's Liver An excellent source of high quality protein, calf's liver is also concentrated in Vitamin A, a source of all the B-vitamins -- particularly vitamin B12 – plus plenty of natural folic acid, highly usable iron (which is absorbed at a higher rate than the iron in plant foods) and its rich in coQ10, a nutrient that is vital for healthy cardiovascular function (FYI: cholesterol lowering drugs destroy this essential nutrient). One caveat: Calf's liver does have a lot of cholesterol. But when eaten sparingly it’s well worth the indulgence.