12

12 foods for 2012:

1) Dark greens (kale, Swiss chard, collards, etc.) - Amazing line-up of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. Lots of flavor, easy to use.

2) Edamame - Big on fiber and minerals that are great for your bones, heart and brain.

3) Tea - 2 to 3 cups of unsweetened tea a day can offer a boost to your immune system and heart health. It has plenty of substances to help protect cells from damage.

4) Barramundi - A white fish from Australia. Mild in flavor, rich in omega-3's, sustainably raised and harvested.

5) Hummus - A great substitute for mayo and a nice dip for veggies. Contains protein, fiber and healthy fats.

6) Spices - Perfect for cutting back the salt and sugar. Try cinnamon, ginger, fennel and turmeric. Digestive and immune benefits.

7) Quinoa - A whole grain rich in fiber, protein and minerals. Great substitute for rice. Cooks in half the time.

8) Kefir - A drinkable type of yogurt with more of the "good bacteria" your digestive system values.

9) Potassium-rich foods (bananas, oranges, sweet potatoes, dried plums and yogurt) - Important for heart health, blood pressure and bones.

10) Water - Try infusing some natural flavor to it for a bump in taste. Slice favorite fruit, berries or even vegetables. Wrap in cheese cloth, dunk into pitcher of water and let steep in refrigerator.

11) Chocolate - Select 72% cocoa content or higher. Cocoa has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties and a mood-enhancing effect.

12) A new food - Make a resolution to try one new food a week. With thousands of items in a grocery store, pick something new as a way of broadening your food horizons