If you’re looking to improve your overall health, a good place to start is with your diet. It can be overwhelming, especially as a beginner, with so many different types of foods and diets to choose from.

However, by simply incorporating a few healthy staples into your grocery haul, you can make a big impact on your well-being. Here are some healthy foods to buy: a beginner’s guide.

Fruits

Fruits are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Some of the healthiest fruits to consider are:.

Berries: blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries
Citrus fruits: oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes
Apples
Bananas
Mangos
Pineapples

Try to aim for at least two servings of fruit per day.

Vegetables

Like fruits, vegetables are an important part of a healthy diet. They’re low in calories and packed with nutrients. Some nutritious vegetables to try are:.

Leafy greens: spinach, kale, collard greens
Cruciferous vegetables: broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage
Root vegetables: carrots, sweet potatoes, beets
Bell peppers
Mushrooms
Zucchini

Aim for at least two and a half cups of vegetables per day.

Whole Grains

Whole grains are an important source of carbohydrates, which are the body’s main source of energy. However, not all carbohydrates are created equal. It’s best to opt for whole grains, which have more fiber and nutrients than refined grains.

Some healthy whole grains to consider are:.

Brown rice
Quinoa
Oats
Whole wheat bread
Barley

Try to aim for at least three servings of whole grains per day.

Protein

Protein is an essential macronutrient that’s important for building and repairing tissue, among other functions. Some healthy sources of protein to consider are:.

Chicken breast
Turkey breast
Salmon
Tuna
Beans
Lentils
Nuts and seeds

Aim for at least one serving of protein per meal.

Healthy Fats

Fat is an essential nutrient that’s important for many bodily functions, but it’s important to choose healthy fats. Some healthy sources of fat to consider are:.

Olive oil
Avocado
Nuts and seeds
Fatty fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel)
Flaxseed
Chia seeds
Coconut oil

Aim to incorporate healthy fats into your meals, but be mindful of portion sizes as they are calorie-dense.

Dairy

Dairy products can be a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health. However, it’s best to choose low-fat or non-fat options. Some healthy dairy products to consider are:.

Low-fat or non-fat milk
Low-fat or non-fat yogurt
Low-fat or non-fat cheese

Try to aim for at least three servings of dairy per day.

Water

While not technically a food, water is a crucial element of a healthy diet. It’s important to drink enough water to stay hydrated, and it can also aid in digestion, skin health, and weight loss.

Try to aim for at least eight glasses of water per day.

Conclusion

Incorporating these healthy foods into your diet can make a big impact on your overall well-being. Start by aiming to get enough servings of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein each day, and choose healthy fats and low-fat dairy products.

Drinking enough water is also crucial.