10 Surprising Foods That Are Good For Your Health (Slideshow)

Yum! I live in Seattle, so of course I love coffee. Recent research has shown that coffee may help you to "mobilize" fat cells before a workout. Translation: you may burn more fat during your workout if you have a small cup of coffee before you hit the trail.

If you must have chocolate, and we all know there are times when we simply must, make it dark. It may take some getting used to, but it's worthwhile. I used to think it was too bitter, but now I actually prefer dark over milk chocolate. Start with 45 percent and gradually work your way up to 70 percent or more. Chocolate is very rich in minerals, such as iron, magnesium, and manganese, and the darker the chocolate the better the nutritional profile.

This one may surprise you, but it's the dark meat of the chicken that has been shown to reduce the risk of fatal heart disease. A study done by researchers at the New York University School of Medicine found that a compound in dark meat (called taurine) significantly lowered the risk of coronary heart disease in women with high cholesterol.

Yes, the yellow part of the egg is where most of the cholesterol comes from, but it's also where most of the nutrients are found. Enjoy life, eat the whole egg! Don't believe me? Ask your doctor...

This is one of my favorites. Because avocados are so rich in healthy fats, guacamole is a healthy food that feels super-indulgent. This dish is also very high in fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. And because it's high in fiber, you'll probably have trouble overeating.

Tahini, one of the main ingredients in hummus is filled with good fats, so it will satisfy your craving for something rich without clogging your arteries. Hummus is also a great source of protein and iron. Just don't overdo the chips.

Studies have shown that dieters that include a serving of nuts (especially peanut butter) feel fuller longer and lose more weight. Great news! Make sure you read the label and don't overdo the serving size.

Pistachios are rich in a compound called lutein, which plays a role in reducing cholesterol. They're also high in fat, so don't overindulge if you're watching your waistline. Make sure to buy them in the shell, so they take longer to eat.

Potatoes are full of vitamin C and B6 — excellent immune system boosters. The problem is what we put on top. Try it my way: top with some canned tuna and a little balsamic salad dressing —dinner in a flash.

Fat isn't the enemy. Fat actually helps to make you feel nourished, partly because it contains a lot of calories. Fat also allows your body to breakdown the nutrients from your food. Look at the sugar content in your salad dressing instead.