Watching what you eat might be the key to staying healthy, but not every 'bad' food is the enemy. Here's a list of some foods that can actually be better for you than you might think…

1. Salt
Salt has always been thought to be the Dr. Evil of seasonings, but it turns out it can actually help your body to function properly. Yes, highly-processed foods that are high in sodium are not the best choice, but unrefined salts like Himalayan salt or raw sea salt are key for good thyroid function and a faster metabolism.

2. Chocolate
Yay! Eating around 85g of dark chocolate a day is recommended to help heart health and decrease the risk of strokes. Below are even more excuses to eat chocolate (as if you needed any):

 

3. Peanut butter
This delicious spread is often believed to be too fatty to be healthy, but it actually contains a higher level of unsaturated fats than saturated ones. These “good fats” can contribute hugely to heart health. Peanut butter is also a great source of protein and will fill you up at lunchtime – the recommended daily amount is around two tablespoons. For extra bonus health points, make your own butter by blending roasted peanuts in a food processor with a touch of honey for around two and a half minutes. Yum!

4. Honey
Raw honey, such as manuka, is high in antioxidants and has lots of antibacterial properties. It’s a great substitute for sugar as a sweetener in coffee, tea and baked goods.

5. Red meat
Many people shy away from red meat, but up to 500g a week can actually be good for you. Lean red meat is a great nutrient booster as it contains high levels of Vitamins A and D, as well as zinc, iron and potassium.

6. Alcohol (in moderation!)
We’re definitely not suggesting you go out and down a tray of Sambuca shots, but moderate alcohol consumption can actually be good for the body, aiding heart health and lowering cholesterol. If you’re a fan of red wine then you’re in luck too as its grapes are high in antioxidants. In Ireland, moderate drinking is described as 11 standard drinks each week for a woman – spread out over the week of course!