9 Remarkable Disease-Fighting Foods
Provided by Guest Blogger Henna Lawrence
The food you consume does more than giving energy. It can have an indelible impact on your body’s ability to fight off cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, weak bones, and stroke.
With outstanding consistency, a recent study has found that a diet rich in plant-based foods — vegetables, fruits, beans and dried peas, starchy staples such as potatoes and grains — is the body’s best weapon in fighting a good deal of health-related issues. These foods fight against multiple diseases that the same natural ingredients you can use to ward off cancer or protect your heart will also benefit your bones and intestinal tract.
Here’s what is currently known about these different disease-fighting foods.
- Tomatoes
Tomatoes have anti-cancer properties because of inherently found antioxidants. The primary antioxidant in tomatoes is called lycopene, and it has shown the most promise in fighting against prostate cancer in research studies.
But lycopene also has a sunscreen property that helps minimize the harm done to skin cells after exposure to UV. So not only it helps fight skin cancer, but it can also shield against premature aging. More recent studies have shown that lycopene helps protect against brittle bones, the leading cause of osteoporosis.
- Blueberries
Blueberries are one of the most reputed superfoods available because they are super-rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Many of those antioxidants are believed to be guarding against cancer, but the goodness of blueberries don’t end here.
These berries, which are the most commonly eaten in America, can also help stimulate your metabolism and reduce blood pressure. They’re also considered as brain food. They can have protective properties against Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, which are neurodegenerative, according to newer research.
- Spinach
Thanks to high levels of the antioxidants beta-carotene and lutein, spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients. Like many leafy, dark vegetables, it’s also a rich source of several minerals and vitamins, and that manages the immune system in perfect balance.
The amalgamation of all these micronutrients results in protective benefits against many diseases. Research has credited spinach with anti-cancer properties besides heart disease protection for those who eat it frequently. Plus, lutein is also great for the eyes and can help preserve healthy vision.
- Broccoli
Like all cruciferous vegetables, broccoli has several anti-cancer properties. Scientific studies show that breast and lung cancer patients eat predominantly less cruciferous vegetable portions than people with no cancer, and they have mixed results for other studies investigating pancreatic and prostate cancer patients. Many scientists believe this proves the cancer-fighting effects of cruciferous vegetables.
But broccoli seems to have a better protective effect against cancer than other cruciferous vegetables such as Brussels sprouts and cauliflower. For this basis, it has been studied more extensively in humans, and several components in broccoli and broccoli sprouts have been pinpointed as anti-cancer compounds.
Besides fighting cancer, the antioxidants in broccoli also appear to lower the risk factors for heart attack and stroke in men.
- Fatty Fish
Omega-3 fatty acids in fish like salmon and mackerel make them true superfoods; experts recommend three servings per week and for a perfect reason. Fish oil is believed to be effective against heart disease for eons and is prescribed as part of any heart-friendly diet. Of late, fish oil was discovered to help enhance memory and is being researched in people living with Alzheimer’s disease.
But the anti-disease benefits don’t end here. In research studies, fish oil has proven to be helpful for ulcerative colitis patients, making the disease less severe. For patients with autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or Crohn’s, fish oil reduces relapses.
- Turmeric
Turmeric, the tropical Asian spice, is used extensively in Indian cuisine and curries, imparting a yellow hue to food. Before the Westerners noticed it, herbalists used turmeric for ages as a natural solution for several health problems.
Turmeric has an antioxidant called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties so that it may be beneficial for such diseases as ulcerative colitis and arthritis. Besides, turmeric has been studied since the 1980s for its anti-cancer effects. Curcumin has shown promise in treating and preventing several types of cancers, including prostate, skin, and breast cancer.
- Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds are a rich source of antioxidants and lignin that powerfully help to treat certain diseases and certain cancers, especially breast cancer. They help minimize the risk of heart disease and lower cholesterol levels. It contains around 25% of the daily suggested fiber.
- Nuts
Dry nuts like walnuts, provide the necessary amount of Omega-3 fatty acids and help to enhance blood cholesterol levels. They also help control blood pressure. Including 1/4 cup of walnuts in your daily diet supplies approximately 90% of the daily required nutrients.
- Sweet Potato
Very rich in vitamin B6, vitamin C, and potassium, sweet potatoes are anti-inflammatory. They can also help to avoid clogging of the arteries. Having one sweet potato has over four times the daily recommended diet. It is best to take as roasted, baked, or cubed and make sure to leave the skins on.
Author Bio:
Henna is a wellness lifestyle writer. She loves sharing her thoughts and personal experiences related to natural remedies, yoga and fitness through her writing. She currently writes for How To Cure. She can connect with others experiencing health concerns and help them through their recovery journeys through natural remedies.
Derma Bright Clinic knows that great skin starts from within so eat your veggies! www.dermabrightclinic.com