12 Health Benefits of Eating Mushrooms

Mushrooms are among the most versatile foods in the world, making a valuable addition to a wide range of foods, from pizza and pasta to meat pies, salads, and sandwiches. Much of their appeal is due to their generally mild, neutral flavor and their affordable pricing, with the latter due to the ability to grow them year-round in a variety of climate types.

But there’s more to mushrooms than great taste and affordability. They’re also remarkably good for you, with their consumption helping boost the health of the immune system and major organs, including the heart. So, let’s take a closer look at the health benefits of eating mushrooms.

1. Heart Helper

With obesity becoming a growing problem in North America, there’s no sign that we’ll soon win the fight against heart disease. Currently, it’s the world’s number-one cause of death; often, it’s the result of problematic life decisions — such as failing to get enough physical exercise or eating unhealthy foods — but it can also result from a family history of heart health issues.

Mushrooms can offer some help, though. Although it’s unlikely that eating mushrooms would be enough to prevent the onset of heart disease, adding more of them to your diet — in addition to making other positive heart-healthy changes — could play a factor in decreasing the chances of developing heart-related health issues. Specifically, research has shown that consuming mushrooms can help fight inflammation, which may help boost the overall functionality of the heart.

2. Immunity Improvements

There’s no denying the importance of the immune system in protecting our bodies against foreign invaders, like scary viruses, capable of damaging our health on a permanent or temporary basis. That’s why it’s so important to consume foods that help, rather than hinder, the efficacy of our immune system.

Mushrooms are among those foods that can offer assistance. That’s because mushrooms have been shown to help boost the activity of cells responsible for defending our bodies against foreign intrusions. Although researchers continue to investigate how mushrooms assist in this process, current theories indicate it may be their polysaccharide content that’s responsible.

3. Cancer Fighter

There are few diagnoses more frightening than those involving the word “cancer.” That’s why so many health products openly tout their potential to help fight the risk of developing cancer. But while many of these products come with high prices, few actually have the ability to prevent cancer from taking hold.

Remarkably, mushrooms may be one of the most affordable foods that have the potential to fight cancer. Studies have shown that consuming mushrooms on a regular basis may help prevent and treat several types of cancer, including prostate, breast, and colon cancers — together, some of the most prevalent and deadly forms of the disease. And it doesn’t take much: just half a cup of mushrooms each day may be all that’s required.

4. Source of Vitamin D

The long, dark nights of winter lead many people struggling with seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, to take vitamin D supplements in order to boost serotonin levels and help compensate for less exposure to sunlight (a major source of vitamin D). But that’s hardly the only way to get enough of this important vitamin.

Eating mushrooms each day is another way to get the recommended amount of vitamin D in your diet. In addition to helping boost your mood and give you a little more energy, vitamin D can help build and maintain healthy bones, making it hugely important for anyone with a family history of arthritis or bone disease.

5. Copper King

Copper has been used for literally thousands of years to complete important construction projects; today, it’s often the central ingredient in the pipes that line the walls of our homes. But copper isn’t just for tools and plumbing projects — it also plays an important role in helping keep us happy and healthy.

That’s because copper, which is found in high amounts in mushrooms, helps in the production of blood cells, meaning it’s crucial in helping maintain a healthy circulatory system. This also means that copper helps with maintaining overall heart health, which is crucial in a world where heart disease represents the single greatest health threat facing humans.

6. Lower Cholesterol

One of the first steps in the alarming progression of heart disease is the escalation of cholesterol levels. As these levels rise, they place increased pressure on the heart, often causing damage to the organ and result in ever more serious health issues.

That’s why it’s so important to search out and regularly consume foods that have been shown to effectively reduce cholesterol levels and lower the chances of developing heart-related health problems. Mushrooms fit that bill nicely, as they boast no calories or fat. Beyond that, they also contain fiber and enzymes with a demonstrated capacity to reduce cholesterol levels and alleviate pressure on the heart.

7. Lean Protein

You’ve probably heard that it’s important to eat foods that contain protein, which can help in the development of muscle and assists in keeping one feeling full for longer (thereby helping them avoid binging on less healthy foods). But you may not know of the importance of consuming lean protein, or protein than is free of fat and can help boost metabolism.

Mushrooms, unlike many fruits and vegetables, actually contain lean protein capable of helping burn cholesterol during the digestive process. Not only does this make mushrooms a great choice for those with heart-health concerns, such as heart attack and stroke, but it also makes them an excellent choice for anyone keen on losing or maintaining body weight.

8. Attack Anemia

Anemia occurs when the iron in an individuals blood reaches levels low enough to result in a variety of health problems, from headaches to exhaustion, digestive concerns, even reduced brain functionality. Although mild cases of anemia can be treated with an iron supplement, some patients must receive more advanced treatment that can include receiving regular iron shots.

Of course, any individual experiencing consistent problems with anemia should make significant changes to their diet in order to consume more foods containing iron. For some, this will mean eating more meat, and particularly red meat like beef. But this isn’t the most health-conscious move and will present obvious problems for anyone who follows a vegan or vegetarian diet. For these individuals, one of the best diet choices will be consuming more mushrooms, as they’re an excellent source of iron. In fact, research shows that the iron found in mushrooms is often more readily broken down and absorbed by the body.

9. Balance Estrogen Levels

Chances are you’re aware that the dominant hormones in men and women are testosterone and estrogen, respectively. But you may not know that having an excess amount of estrogen in the body can actually present significant health problems to women; in fact, excess estrogen, which typically becomes an issue following menopause, can significantly increase one’s chances of developing breast cancer.

Making dietary changes can help with this problem, however. Specifically, a diet containing a regular supply of mushrooms can help balance estrogen levels. Additionally, mushrooms have been shown to help prevent the formation of tumors when applied in a medicinal capacity and quantity.

10. Fight Diabetes

There’s no denying that, with more and more North Americans struggle with their weight and obesity, diabetes (and particularly type 2 diabetes) is becoming a progressively more sinister health concern. In addition to requiring substantial changes to one’s diet and lifestyle, diabetes can lead to the emergence of many serious health issues, including heart disease.

That’s why it’s so important to consume foods that can help prevent diabetes and help treat the disease following a diagnosis (should one occur). Because mushrooms contain no fat or cholesterol and very few carbohydrates, they’re considered an ideal food in the effort to prevent or fight diabetes. Additionally, mushrooms contain enzymes capable of helping break down sugars and starches in our food, making carbohydrates less of a threat to diabetics.

11. Boost Bone Health

Back in the twentieth century, the dairy industry achieved a major accomplishment by convincing millions of Americans that the best way to build calcium levels in the body — and thereby improve the density and overall health of our bones — was to drink milk and consume other dairy products, such as yogurt and cheese. It was a huge boon to companies making these products.

But the truth is that, while getting a sufficient amount of calcium in our diets is very important, dairy is hardly the only way to achieve this goal. In reality, there are many different types of foods, including mushrooms, that contain ample amounts of calcium. Mushrooms are an excellent source of calcium and therefore eating them represents an excellent way to boost bone health and keep bone-related health problems, like arthritis and joint pain, at bay.

12. Help Absorb Nutrients

We’re constantly told how important it is to consume foods that contain crucial vitamins and minerals, but we don’t often hear about the foods that can actually improve the body’s ability to absorb and make use of those nutrients.

Mushrooms are one of these foods. Because they’re high in vitamin D, which plays an important role in facilitating the absorption of other vitamins and minerals, mushrooms are an excellent dietary choice. Given that mushrooms already contain copper, calcium, phosphorous, and a range of vitamins, this makes them one of the healthiest foods you can eat.

The Disgusting, Unexpected Things You Can Eat From All Around Your House

It’s finally happened. The zombies have taken over, and you’re left stranded in your own home with only the items in your house for survival. You didn’t prepare for the apocalypse — so now what? Once you empty your fridge and pantry, what’s left to eat? Your surroundings might contain more edible materials than you realize.

You really shouldn’t eat any of these things unless you’re desperate. But in a worst-case scenario, they might keep you alive.

Chalk 

Sidewalk and blackboard chalk are made from a compound called calcium sulfate. It’s water-soluble (which is why rain washed away all your beautiful sidewalk art as a kid) and probably won’t hurt you, unless you eat it by the box.

Technically, it’s found in very small amounts in foods like nut butters, processed cheeses, and hot dogs. Once you get past the texture, it probably isn’t too bad. 

Toothpaste 

We’ve all accidentally swallowed a mouthful of toothpaste after brushing our teeth at least once. Somehow, we lived through it. Small amounts won’t hurt — just don’t eat the entire tube for breakfast and expect a minor stomachache to be the worst side effect. 

Leather 

Would you willingly eat your shoes in order to survive? Leather is technically an edible substance, containing animal proteins that might keep you alive a little longer. Heating up your belts, boots, and handbags, though unpleasant, might save your life. 

Cigarettes 

Smoking destroys your health over a long period of time, but could you eat a cigarette and survive? Maybe. Your chances of survival might increase if you burn it and eat the ashes, though. Sometimes, anemia drives people to eat strange things — in the short-term, it might keep you alive. 

Houseplants 

Some indoor plants can add beauty as well as nourishment to a home. Herbs like thyme and basil obviously make the list, but if you aren’t already growing those, a few others will do. You can grow lettuce, kale, garlic, and even tomatoes and peas inside under the right conditions. 

Dirt 

If you’re going to munch on a few potted plants, you might as well go for the dirt. It may not be the most appetizing option, but it actually might have some health benefits.

Making a meal out of mud could actually protect your body from harmful microorganisms — everything from toxins to parasites, all the disease-causing bugs that make you sick. Introducing your body to the bacteria and other organisms found in dirt might make you less likely to get sick from them. 

Soap 

As a last resort, the bar of soap in your shower might be able to provide a decent serving of fat, which your body needs to continue functioning properly.

Making soap — a process called saponification — requires only three ingredients: vegetable oil, water, and lye, a chemical compound that probably won’t hurt you in small amounts. Adding a little toothpaste to it might help improve the taste. 

Cardboard 

Eating literal cardboard isn’t totally unheard of. People with pica, a condition in which patients crave and eat inedible substances like paper, do it impulsively.

However, if you were getting desperate and had a bunch of cardboard lying around the house, you might be able to have it for lunch. It’s just paper mixed with chemicals, so you’re definitely taking a risk, but at least you’ll get some fiber back into your diet.

15 Bad Health Habits That Are Undeniably American

Americans are known for their love of baseball, Hollywood, and die-hard patriotism. But that’s not all. Americans are also known for fast food, a fast paced lifestyle, and poor eating habits that are killing many.

Approximately 97.3% of Americans admit to not exercising, having a poor diet, smoking, and gaining weight, according to a study by Oregon State University College of Public Health and Human Sciences. Not staying healthy can promote disease such as cancer, diabetes, cancer, and stroke.

What are the unhealthy American habits that could be making you sick? The health habit on page 13 has reached epidemic levels.

1. Love of fast food 

President Donald Trump isn’t the only American who indulges in fast food as just about every American loves it too, Vox reports. Although fast food prevalence isn’t as commonplace as it was years ago, many Americans hit a fast food joint at some point within a three-week period. 

2. Mindless eating 

One reason Americans are gaining weight is due to mindless eating in front of the computer, television, or other electronic device. “Most of us have too much chaos going on in our lives to consciously focus on every bite we eat, and then ask ourselves if we’re full. The secret is to change your environment so it works for you rather than against you,” Brian Wansink, PhD said during his presentation at American Psychological Association’s 119th Annual Convention, The American Psychological Association reports. 

3. Endless work hours 

The average American adult works longer and more hours than ever, according to The Motley Fool. An estimated 40% of Americans work more than 50 hours a week and 20% work 60 plus hours per week. Longer hours may lead to burn out, sleep disruptions, and stress. 

4. Being plugged in 24/7 

Americans are also pretty distracted and stressed thanks to being plugged into a number of devices, according to The New York Times. At least 40% of Americans check work email while on vacation or after hours, although 65% said they could get along without a computer. One retired individual told The New York Times, “Every single electronic device absolutely causes some stress.” 

5. Binge drinking  

Binge drinking in America is an ongoing problem as one in six Americans binge drinks four times a month, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The CDC considers binge drinking to be about seven drinks per binge. Men are more likely to binge drink than women and may result in fatal car crashes, disease, and dependence. 

6. Loose gun laws 

Americans own more guns than any just about any other country and lead the world in gun deaths as well, according to PBS News Hour. Gun control is a hot topic, a debate often resurfacing following mass shootings. 

7. Sedentary lifestyle 

Not only what we do, but what we don’t do can create a health hazard. A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to disease and death, The Huffington Post reports. In fact 20% of deaths result from being a couch potato for those age 35 and older. Plus, 80% of American adults don’t meet basic physical activity requirements. 

8. Sugar addiction 

The average American ingests about 20 teaspoons of sugar each day, which directly contributes to heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and fatty liver disease, Healthline reports. Unfortunately, many Americans don’t realize they are eating such a large amount of sugar. “What happens is that Americans are having dessert several times a day and don’t know it,” Dr. Alan Greene told Healthline. 

9. Love of soda 

Americans love soda. Although overall sugary drink consumption is declining, at least 60% of children and 50% of adults still drink a beverage that contains sugar, according to The New York Times. Drinking too much soda is linked to reduced kidney function, diabetes, obesity, and more. 

10. Supersized portions 

Supersized portions are a trend in the U.S., but so are the sizes of plates, bowls and utensils, Medium reports. American restaurant food portions have nearly tripled in the last 20 years, which is linked to the rising obesity problem, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute reports.

“Super-sized portions at restaurants have distorted what Americans consider a normal portion size, and that affects how much we eat at home as well,” said Dr. Elizabeth G. Nabel, director of NIH’s National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. 

11. Avoid the doctor 

Up to 50% of Americans between the ages of 45 and 59 admit to not receiving medical care due to cost, MarketWatch reports. Even Americans with health insurance find costs to be too much. “And 80% of the people we surveyed had health insurance, so just having insurance does not make you immune to health care costs,” Dr. Zia Agha, chief medical officer at the West Health Institute said to MarketWatch. 

12. Not using sunscreen 

Many Americans are not protecting their skin and increasing their risk for skin cancer, Science Daily reports. Only 14.3% of men and nearly 30% of women use sunscreen on a daily basis, the CDC found, with more women using sunscreen on their face. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a waterproof sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 30 or more. 

13. Painkiller/opioid abuse 

In 2017, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced the overuse of opioid painkillers reached an epidemic level. In 2016 alone 116 people died every day from overdosing on opioids and 11.5 million people misused the drug in the U.S. 

14. Stress and anxiety 

More Americans report being anxious, according to the American Psychological Association. Approximately 63% report the state of the country as being their main source of stress, 62% say finances stress them out, and 61% say work is their source of anxiety. Part of the issue stems from the 24/7 news cycle and constantly checking social media that keeps Americans anxious. 

15. Not caring about the environment 

While most Americans say they care about the environment, only a small percentage actually take steps to live an environmentally friendly lifestyle, according to Pew Research Center. A healthy environment means clean air, preserving the planet for future generations, and preventing super storms due to increasing temperatures, according to Eco Admirer. Climate change could also negatively impact food resources, wildlife, and forests.

Cancer in Your House: 15 Innocent Looking Household Items That Can Cause Cancer

You might not know it, but there are plenty of every day household items that could be contributing to your cancer risk. Are any of these in your home? Probably.

Area rugs and carpets 

Carpets are made with chemicals that can cause cancer, such as formaldehyde and acetone. Most carpets also contain flame retardants that are carcinogenic. Plus, that “new carpet smell” actually comes from a type of chemical that’s been connected to eye, nose, and respiratory complications. 

The couch 

In 1975, California passed a law that required most furniture to be coated in flame retardants. The idea was to prevent furniture fires caused by cigarettes. Once California passed the law, most furniture companies coated all furniture in chemicals, no matter what state it was being shipped to. But later testing found out that those chemicals could actually cause cancer. The chemicals are still used today. 

Your shower curtain 

In 2008, American scientists requested that all shower curtains containing PVCs, or toxic, cancer-causing chemicals, be banned from store shelves. Although stores no longer sell these curtains, if you had one in your home, it likely leaked chemicals that then entered your body. If you happened to buy shower curtains in bulk to save money in the long run, make sure you don’t still have any in your home. 

Leather furniture 

About half of all leather furniture contains a carcinogen known as chromium. Plus, the process of dying leather has also been found to cause cancer, making it dangerous to factory workers. Make sure you check the labels to figure out whether or not your furniture is chromium free and avoid buying furniture containing the chemical. 

Fluorescent lighting 

Those CFL (compact fluorescent light) bulbs the government recommends actually could cause cancer. The bulbs contain mercury, which is a known carcinogen. Plus, the bulbs also emit high levels of ultraviolet radiation. If the bulb’s protective layer is cracked, dangerous levels of UVA and UVB radiation can escape. This means you could get skin cancer — just from your lights. 

Cleaning products 

Many household cleaning products are known carcinogens. Although they can sterilize your home, they can also leave you inhaling toxic chemicals and allow those chemicals to build up on your home’s surfaces. But luckily, chemical-free cleaners are available. 

Your closet 

All that dry cleaning you have can potentially lead to cancer. And when you store that dry cleaning all in one place, such as your closet, the risk is even greater. The process for dry-cleaning clothes is toxic, but most Americans aren’t even aware of the risks. The chemical known as “perc” is used to dissolve stains on clothes. And while it’s good at that, it’s also good at causing cancer. 

Vinyl flooring 

Vinyl flooring contains PVC, which is a known carcinogen. Installing it in your home means exposing your family to the potential dangers of PVC. Also, dioxins, which are carcinogenic toxins, are produced during the vinyl-floor-making process. Although vinyl flooring companies have reduced the exposure to their employees, those with vinyl flooring in their home are still at risk. 

The foods in your kitchen 

There are several foods that have been classified as carcinogens by the FDA. Grilled red meat, microwave popcorn, and cold cuts are just three popular items that can cause cancer. Carbonated beverages and farmed fish are also on the cancer-causing list. You may be able to cut your cancer risk in half by eliminating carcinogenic foods from your diet. 

Styrofoam cups 

Styrene is the main ingredient in Styrofoam products. In 2014, it was officially labeled a suspected carcinogen. It’s also found in other every day products like various plastics, your refrigerator, and even carpets in your home. The best way to avoid styrene is to simply stop purchasing Styrofoam products. Paper plates and cups are a safer alternative. 

Your bookshelf books 

Ethylene oxide is a chemical used to sterilize and fumigate old books. When you bring these books into your home, you risk exposing your family to cancerous chemicals. Ethylene oxide is also used to sterilize medical equipment and food manufacturing supplies. It poses the biggest risk to those who actually use it, but it can linger on products like antique books. 

Your bug spray 

For years, pesticides have been shown to have cancer-causing properties. Bug spray is no exception. But the biggest risk is when the spray is used indoors. Outside, people are less likely to directly breathe in those chemicals. But inside, the residue is not only breathed in but can also linger on surfaces in the house. Always apply insect repellent outdoors to lower the risk of developing leukemia or lymphoma. 

Your granite countertops 

Radon, a gas that is the second leading cause of lung cancer, can be emitted from granite counters, which has lead researchers to question whether or not they should be allowed in homes. Only a small fraction of countertops tested have radon levels that are higher than what is deemed “safe,” according to WebMD. But if you’re looking to eliminate your risk, go with quartz counters instead. 

Your insulation 

According to the National Toxicology Program, there is sufficient evidence that glass wool fibers found in insulation can cause cancer. Testing has been done on laboratory animals to conclude the findings. But sufficient testing has not been done in humans. Those who are the most at risk for contracting cancer through insulation are the home improvement workers who install it. 

Your weed killer 

The World Health Organization has determined that glysophate, a chemical commonly found in weed killer, is likely carcinogenic to humans. Experiments in rodents showed that too much glysophate exposure caused tumors. However, some studies have shown to be controversial about whether or not the weed killer can actually cause cancer. For now, it is still under investigation.

These Canned Foods Are Destroying Your Health — Avoid Them at All Costs

It’s pretty amazing how many foods we’ve preserved in a can over the years. The usual suspects, such as tuna fish, beans, and soup, probably come to mind first and foremost. But if you peruse your local grocery store aisles, there are hundreds of cans left and right. You might have even popped open a can of food to add to a meal today and didn’t even think twice about it.

Canned foods certainly have their place. But not every canned food is good for you. There are plenty that sound convenient and tasty but are truly horrible for your health. Let’s take a quick look at 11 canned foods that are destroying your health (No. 6 might be too tasty to give up). We’ll also take a brief look at which canned foods are actually good for you.

1. Libby’s Corned Beef Hash 

Corned beef hash has been a breakfast staple for decades. Thanks to companies, such as Libby’s, you don’t even have to make it from scratch — you can dump it right out of a can and have it ready in just minutes. This mixture of beef, spices, and potatoes isn’t exactly the perfect health food, however. In one 15-ounce can of Libby’s, you can expect to eat 840 calories, 22 grams of saturated fat, and 2,460 milligrams of sodium.

Considering the American Heart Association recommends you only take in 2,300 milligrams of sodium a day tops, we highly suggest skipping this horrifying can of death. 

2. Hormel Chili With Beans 

Canned chili is a great go-to when you’re starving and in need of a protein-filled meal. But we can’t exactly recommend you try Hormel’s Chili With Beans after taking a look at the nutrition facts. One can holds over 500 calories, 5 grams of saturated fat, and nearly 2,000 milligrams of sodium.

Even if you can get past these atrocities, there’s another number that’s sort of confusing — and that’s the 10 grams of sugar. Do you throw sugar in your homemade chili recipe? Yeah, we didn’t think so. Why there’s anything sweet in this food is really beyond us. Just say no. 

3. Del Monte Fruit Cocktail 

You probably remember having this canned food as a kid. If you recall it tasting so much better than fresh fruit, it’s because its contents were swimming in a high-fructose corn syrup bath. At first glance, Del Monte’s Fruit Cocktail looks innocent — 100 calories isn’t bad, and 21 grams of sugar isn’t too much of a nightmare. But once you realize there are actually 3.5 servings in one of these little cans, those numbers are much, much worse. No one eats just a third of a can of fruit cocktail, which means you’ll most likely be taking in 63 grams of sugar in one sitting. You might as well just reach for a candy bar. 

4. Bush’s Honey Baked Beans 

Beans are known for their high protein content, and who doesn’t love a good baked bean dish at their picnics and barbecues? Unfortunately, baked beans are one of the least nutritious ways to consume an otherwise healthy food. And Bush’s Honey Baked Beans certainly aren’t doing your health any favors.

In one of these cans, you’re getting nearly 600 calories and over 50 grams of sugar. Even if you’re not eating the whole can yourself, you probably wouldn’t suspect this food to be so gut-busting. Do yourself a favor, and control the sugar content with your own recipe. 

5. Lucky Leaf Lemon Crème Filling & Topping 

There’s really nothing healthy about a lemon pie. But when it comes to pies that are also made from fillings in a can, you know you’re in for a sickeningly sweet caloric nightmare. Lucky Leaf’s Lemon Crème Filling & Toppingreally outdoes itself in the horrible-for-your-health department. One can of the stuff contains almost 800 calories and 140 grams of sugar. And the second ingredient is high-fructose corn syrup.

It’s a good thing pies are meant to be shared. Otherwise you’d feel pretty awful after eating a can of this stuff. 

6. Progresso Loaded Potato With Bacon soup 

In all honesty, we really could put just about any cream-based canned soup on this list and find a reason as to why it’s bad for your health. But we’re calling particular attention to the disaster that is Progresso’s Loaded Potato soup. One can of this soup contains 340 calories, which is reasonable for a meal. But the 20 grams of fat and 5 grams of saturated fat you’ll also be eating is really cause for concern. And like all cans of soup, the sodium content is outrageous at 1,600 milligrams.

We can guarantee making your own potato soup would be 10 times more healthy and delicious. 

7. Chef Boyardee Beef Ravioli 

Who needs real Italian food when you can just pop open a can of Chef Boyardee? There’s a reason no one’s ever asked themselves that question (at least, we hope they haven’t). The chef’s recipes are nice to have on hand for when you want something conveniently saucy and cheesy, but we really have nothing good to say about the Beef Ravioli.

One can has 11 grams of fat, 4.5 grams of saturated fat, and 1,140 milligrams of sodium. There’s also a horrifying surprise of 9 grams of sugar in there. Do you add several tablespoons of sugar to your beef ravioli at home? We didn’t think so. 

8. Pillsbury Grands! Refrigerated Biscuits 

There’s nothing quite as tasty as a Pillsbury biscuit. But there’s a reason these buttery, flakey pastries from the can that you’ve eaten since childhood are so delicious — and that’s because they’re full of unhealthy ingredients. In just one Southern Homestyle biscuit, you’re getting 170 calories and 6 grams of fat, with 2.5 grams being saturated. There’s even 4 grams of sugar and 470 grams of sodium in every single serving. Seeing as just one eating one of these addicting pastries is nearly impossible, you can pretty much double these numbers for yourself, too.  

9. Hunt’s Manwich Bold Sloppy Joe Sauce 

It’s the dinner staple that defined many childhoods — the Sloppy Joe. And if you’re someone who loves a little extra tang and flavor, you’re probably a fan of Hunt’s Manwich Bold Sloppy Joe Sauce.

Upon first glance, it’s not the biggest offender on the list. With only 70 calories and 0 grams of fat per serving, you might be tempted to really pile it on your bread of choice. What’s really puzzling, however, is why there’s a whopping 13 grams of sugar in a serving of this sauce. And seeing as a serving is just a mere quarter cup, you’re probably eating a ton of sugar without realizing. 

10. Libby’s Country Sausage Gravy 

We know how tempting the smell of biscuits and gravy can be. But you’ll want to do your body a favor and skip out on the canned varieties of gravy (and biscuits, for that matter). Libby’s Country Sausage Gravy is another offensive canned good that doesn’t seem so bad until you really delve into the facts. A quarter cup contains 70 calories — not too bad — but you’re also getting 6 grams of fat, 1.5 of which is saturated. The 2 grams of protein is an added bonus, but compared to the nearly 300 milligrams of sodium in one serving, it doesn’t really measure up.

And it’s also time to be honest — how many of us can really stop at just a quarter cup of gravy? We say give this one a pass. 

11. Nabisco Easy Cheese 

You may not have questioned the nutritional value of this product 20 years ago, but today, we’re highly suggesting you take several steps back from Nabisco’s Easy Cheese. It’s bright, it stays “fresh” for a number of years, and it’s in a can, which all spell trouble. And just 2 tablespoons of the stuff is almost 100 calories and 6 grams of fat. Nabisco also manages to add 430 milligrams of sodium into those measly spoonfuls. The 4 grams of protein certainly can’t redeem this bad canned food, so it’s time to leave this one in the ’80s where it belongs. 

1. Lentils 

If you’ve forgotten about this legume, it’s time to incorporate it into your diet. Lentils are high in protein and fiber, mindbodygreen says, making them the perfect accompaniment when you’re sick of rice or pasta as a side dish. They also aid in digestion, can help reduce your risk of heart disease, and can help lower your cholesterol levels.

If you’re trying to lose weight, lentils should definitely be on your radar too. An entire cup cooked comes to just 230 calories. 

2. Pumpkin 

Let’s be clear: We’re not talking about the sugary pumpkin pie filling in the baking aisle — we’re talking about straight canned pumpkin with nothing added. And this canned food is full of beta-carotene, which can help prevent heart disease and enhance your eye health, Greatist says. It may also surprise you to know that you’ll feel pretty full after eating a dish with pumpkin due to its incredibly high fiber content and decent amount of protein.

Unsure of how to add canned pumpkin to your meals? Try adding it to oatmeal or yogurt for breakfast, or you can even toss it into mac and cheese or chili for extra creaminess. 

3. Artichokes 

This often forgotten vegetable can seem intimidating to cook, no matter how much you’re craving spinach and artichoke dip. And that’s where the canned version comes in. Livestrong.com reports just one medium artichoke contains over 40% of your recommended daily value of fiber, which also can help lower cholesterol and balance blood sugar. This fiber is also unique because it can stimulate the production of good bacteria in your gut.

If you’re stumped on how to use canned artichokes, try throwing them on pizzas, using them in a salad, or even just sautéing them in a pan with olive oil and garlic.

Next: A cheap option to improve bone and heart health.

4. Black or kidney beans

You can quickly warm up beans for soups, side dishes, or chili. | Piyaset/iStock/Getty Images

Beans are cheaper if you buy them dried, but the prep time is undesirable. In that case, feel free to go for the cans of black and kidney beans. All varieties of this legume are high in protein and fiber, and black beans in particular may help to strengthen your bones and heart, says Medical News Today. And Livestrong.com noteskidney beans could aid in cancer prevention.