Heard of the term?
'Super Foods' refers to food that contains vitamins, nutrients
and/or minerals that are believed to contain special properties for
health, disease prevention and/or longevity.
It is believed that including such foods in your diet may help in
cancer prevention as well.
Here's the list of 'super foods' :
Broccoli
- Contains vitamins C, A, Beta Carotene and Fiber.
Carrots
- 2 carrots every other day provide enough beta carotene to reduce
stroke risk by half for men who already have symptoms of heart
disease
Chili Peppers
- The heat source in chilis, capsaicin, is an antioxidant. Contains
blood thinning properties to prevent strokes, lowers cholesterol,
protects DNA against carcinogens, may stimulate release of
endorphins ("natural high" chemicals)
Spinach
- Contains vitamins A and C, folic acid and magnesium which help
control cancer, reduces heart disease and stroke risk, blocks free
radicals and may help prevent osteoporosis.
Mushrooms
- Contain beta-glucan, which stimulates immune system. Shitake,
enoki, zhuling and reishi all have anti-cancer and antiviral
effects
Tomatoes
- Contain lycopenes - an antioxidant more potent than vitamin C.
Stimulates immune function and may slow degenerative diseases
Strawberries
- Contains ellagic acid, which contains anti-cancer
properties
Papaya, Pineapple &
Kiwi
- High amounts of enzymes that help combat everything from
autoimmune diseases, allergies, and cancer to AIDS
Mangoes
- Contains bioflavonoids that aid the immune system
Citrus Fruits
- Contains vitamin C which helps your body fight cancers (lung,
cervical, esophagus & stomach). Rich in bioflavonoids.
Apricots
- Fresh apricots are high in beta-carotene. Also contains vitamin C
and fiber.
Bananas
- Rich in magnesium (helps protect circulatory system), potassium
and slowly-absorbed sugars. Good source of pectin (a soluble
fiber). Prevents radical swings in blood sugar
Garlic
- May lower cholesterol and blood pressure. May contain chemicals
capable of destroying cancer cells
Green Tea
- Green tea contains polyphenols, which may reduce heart disease,
cancer and stroke risk
Beans
- High in protein and complex carbohydrates. Contains both soluble
and insoluble fiber. Contains phytochemicals and protease
inhibitors that may help prevent cancer
Soybeans & Tofu
- Lowers "bad" LDL cholesterol levels in bloodstream which reduces
heart disease risk. Studies have shown that people who regularly
eat soy products have reduced risk or lower rates of prostate,
colon, lung, rectal and stomach cancers.
Salmon
- Contains omega-3 oils to fight heart disease. Contains calcium,
magnesium, protein and B-vitamins.
Oats
- Oat bran lowers cholesterol and blood pressure. May reduce risk
of colon cancer. Oatmeal contains both soluble and insoluble
fiber.
Try to incorporate most of these foods in your daily diet!
