What we eat has a direct impact on our bodies so it's essential not only to fuel it with the right quantity and quality of food, but also the most potent. Functional foods like berries, nuts and darkly coloured fruit and vegetables contain thousands of compounds, pigments, and natural antioxidants, many of which have been associated with protection from heart disease, hypertension, cancer, and diabetes. This is probably why the Food Guide pyramid recommends five servings per day of fruits and vegetables.
So what should we be eating?
Berries
These yummy pie fillers are a triple threat, helping to fight against cancer, heart disease and cholesterol. They contain phytochemicals called anthocyanidins and ellagic acid, both of which act as antioxidants, helping to protect cells, and are also full of fibre, which helps reduce cholesterol.
Avocado
This pear-shaped wonder contains 14 minerals, which help to stimulate growth and regulate body functions. Expecially noteworth are its iron and copper contents, which aid in red blood regeneration and the prevention of nutritional anaemia. Those with weaker stomachs will also find relief as the vitamins in its flesh help calm the digestive system and reduce inflammation.
Chili peppers
People from the Asian subcontinent love their spicy curries and rightly so. The phytochemical capsaicin, which provides the heat, is believed to be an antioxidant that may interfere with cancer development and prevent blood clotting. It also revs up the metabolism to burn more calories.
Beetroot
High in vitamin A (an antioxidant), it is not only good for the eliminative system, but also benefits the digestive and lymphatic systems. In addition, beetroot improves circulation, purifies the blood and strengthens the heart. It can also be used to eliminate pocket acid material in the bowel, ailments in the gallbladder and stagnancy in the liver.
Fish
Our finned friends don't only make us smarter, but stronger as well. Their omega-3 oils have been linked to preventing heart disease and help reduce inflammation in arthritis patients. A British study proved that fish eaters have the highest concentrations of beneficial HDL cholesterol - even more than vegetarians. The omega-3's unique fatty acid structure helps block the overproduction of hormone-like substances called prostaglandins and leukotrienes that, in excess, may become overzealous and issue instructions to cells to begin harmful disease processes such as blood clots, inflammation and immune reactions.
Garlic
The smelly compound of garlic, allicin, is actually an antibiotic that can help lower the risk of stomach and colon cancer. It regulates the balance between HDL (good cholesterol) and LDL (bad cholesterol), stimulates the immune system, acts as an expectorant and decongestant for common colds and as a 'mucus regulator' for chronic bronchitis. It also thins the blood and prevents embolisms and contains cancer-preventive chemicals.
Tomato
The good news is that it's not just fresh ones that count - canned tomatoes are just as good, and purée is actually higher in vitamins and minerals.Tomato increases the alkalinity of the blood and helps remove toxins, especially uric acid from the system. Its vitamin A is great for vision disorders and has also proved beneficial for morning sickness and stomach problems.
Turmeric
In India turmeric is applied on wounds to help promote quicker healing or is dissolved in glass of warm milk to reduce chest congestions. The primary ingredient, curcumin, which is what gives it its yellow colour, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities and protects the liver from toxins. Studies have also shown that it can help fight against cancer and promote optimal heart function.
Wheat Bran
This is nature's best cure for constipation. Thanks to regulating our most basic function, it helps neutralise substances in the intestine that cause cancer and introduce a risk of heart disease. It also reduces an individuals' chances of developing haemorroids, varicose veins, hitatial hernia and colon cancer. Just make sure its unprocessed.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Broccoli, kale, cabbage and cauliflower are wonderful sources of vitamin C, folate and carotenoids, which are all believed to be cancer fighters. They neutralise cancer-causing chemicals that damage cells and also interfere with tumour growth. The phytochemical, indole acts to make oestrogen less potent and thus may reduce the risk of breast cancer.
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