Healthy Food Trends You Need in 2017 ...

This might sound like something you make in the blender, but pulses are actually the seeds of dried crops. Examples include beans, lentils, peas and garbanzo beans. So why are they so healthy? Because they are packed with protein, fiber and a bunch of other nutrients your body needs for good health. Look for pulses sold as gluten-free flour or just eat them in their natural state. They’re good any way you prepare them!

Some things are better left in the past (tight rolled jeans, I’m looking at you), but certain ancient grains are welcome to come back anytime. That’s because they are healthy and easy to prepare many different meals with. Think farro, millet, amaranth and bulgur. Many ancient grains are great picks for a gluten-free diet and you can eat many of them hot or cold, making them a great versatile choice for a healthy meal plan.

For many decades now, we’ve been told that the full fat versions of our favorite foods are big time no-nos. That includes yogurt, avocado and nuts, as well as tons of other things. New research is linking these foods to a healthy heart and a smaller waistline. The trick is eating them in small portions and rounding them out with lower calorie fare, such as fresh fruits and veggies and lean protein.

A plant-based diet doesn’t necessarily mean you can never have a steak. However, more and more experts are saying that if forgo the meat some of the time and eat more plants, you contribute to a healthier body and a healthier environment. It takes more energy to grow and process meat, so nixing it several days a week is a great choice for 2016 and beyond.

Nooch is simply nutritional yeast and is often used as a dairy free alternative to Parmesan cheese. It has a nutty taste with lots of protein and vitamin B12. You can use it to make creamy pasta sauces or as a flavoring for popcorn, salads, soups and more. You’ll love the versatility just as much as the taste!

Experts are increasingly moving away from having people count calories and obsess over nutritional labels. Now, mindful eating is taking its place. This practice involves blocking out distractions and focusing on the texture and taste of your meals. By doing this, you can recognize satiety and eat less at mealtime. So, put down the Candy Crush and turn off The Walking Dead and pay attention to what you’re munching.

For years we’ve been told to eat more Mediterranean foods, such as vegetables, olives and fish. This is definitely a good way to protect your heart health, but the focus is moving to the Nordic style of eating these days. People in this area of the world eat lots of plants, fish and high protein dairy products. Try it. You’re going to love it!

Smoothies are great for getting your daily fruits in in a cinch. However, adding spinach, kale, or others is so popular right now because it gives you your veggie intake now too. Plus, you can usually mask the flavors with the fruits.

We all know the awesome benefits of green tea, but now you can mix it up with Rooibos Tea. It's a red tea that is your heart's best friend. Lowering cholesterol, blood pressure, heart disease risk, and body mass index, this tea is sure to help those who protect their hearts.

Chia has been a craze for a few years and will continue to be for awhile if my predictions are correct. It's an awesome and versatile superfood so it's no surprise it hits the charts each year. High in protein, Omega-3, and fiber, these little seeds will also help you feel fuller for longer when incorporated in your meal. Throw in yogurt, pancakes, oatmeal, and more. Your options are endless.

Which of these trends are you going to get behind in 2017?