10 reasons why pizza might be good for you

Pizza, a favorite food made with dough, tomato sauce, cheese, and various toppings, originated in Italy in the late 1700s. Since then, pizza has become a favorite of millions of people around the world.

Pizza may seem like an unhealthy treat, but greasy pies do offer certain nutritional benefits. Here are 10 reasons experts think pizza is really good for you.

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1. Pizza toppings can be amazingly healthy.

Ordering a pizza with lots of vegetables and lean proteins can provide enough of the nutrients a person needs in their daily diet.

2. Pizza can be high in protein.

The body uses protein to support daily bodily functions. The average slice of pizza contains about 12 grams of protein, mostly from cheese. According to the National Academy of Medicine, an adult should consume 7 grams of protein for every 20 pounds of their weight.

3. Pizza can help your body absorb lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes.

Lycopene is an antioxidant that can be found in colorful fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, and tomatoes. Tomatoes are the basis of most pizza sauces. According to the US National Library of Medicine, people consume lycopene to lower blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels.

3. Pizza can help your body absorb lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes.

Take a look at many pizzeria menus and you'll find all sorts of toppings that go far beyond the standard sauce and cheese. We suggest sticking to basic toppings like sauce and cheese.

5. Order thin pizza.

A thin-crust pizza will contain fewer calories than a thick-crust pizza.

5. Order thin pizza.

It doesn't matter what time of day you eat pizza, it can still be a balanced choice. And yes, that includes breakfast too.

7. Pizza made with whole wheat flour provides even more nutritional benefits.

At some fancy pizzerias, you can choose between regular pizza dough and whole wheat dough. According to a study published in ScienceDaily, whole grain bread is lower in carbs than white bread and contains more fiber, which will make you feel full faster.

8. Pizza can help you stick to your diet.

If you're eating healthy most of the day, then it's okay to veer off course and eat a greasy slice of pizza from time to time. This can help you lead a healthier lifestyle.

9. Pizza can make your bones stronger.

According to the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute for Child Health and Development, dairy products such as cheese are good sources of calcium. The body uses calcium to keep bones strong and prevent osteoporosis, which can cause bones to become brittle and weak.

10. Pizza can help you eat more vegetables.

If you don't like eating vegetables, try putting them on your pizza. Combined with cheese, sauce, and dough, vegetables can take on new life.