That's Fit

Each week, we'll be naming a Super Food and offering unique ways to use those Super Foods that pack nutritional power. After all, you are what you eat -- make it count!

Few health foods can be found in the junk food aisle of your local grocery store. But there is one healthy item to be had in the seemingly endless sea of stuff that's bad for you. I'll give you a hint: it comes in little tins. Give up yet? Next time you're not sure what to pick up for a quick a delicious snack, nuts are your best bet.

But wait a second, you say. Aren't nuts high in fat? And salt? And calories? The answers to those questions are yes, yes and yes, but don't be too quick to write nuts off -- I'll tell you why.

Peanut butter is a great source of healthy fats, not to mention that it contains a little bit of protein, too. When eaten with carbohydrate-rich foods, the peanut butter will work to slow digestion, helping you feel fuller longer. But, when it comes to nut butters, there are others worth trying. My personal suggestion? Almond butter.

On average, almonds are around 20 percent protein. Plus, almonds are also rich in vitamin E and calcium. Same goes for almond butter. Using this healthy spread, which can be found in most grocery stores, can help reduce bad (LDL) cholesterol because of its high concentration of monounsaturated fats. What's more, almonds have been shown in some studies to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.

However, if almonds just aren't your thing, you can always try cashew or macadamia butter. Both also offer a good amount of healthy, monounsaturated fat and, when spread across a slice of whole wheat bread, can make for a great snack.