Monday, 9 February 2009

Health Foods - Carrots

Carrots:
Carrots are powerful detoxifying food and are especially effective taken as juice with apple. Their rich orange color indicate that they are loaded with beta-carotene.

This carotenoid pigment converts to Vitamin A in the body when needed and is a powerful force in the fight against free radicals.

In addition, beta carotene has a healing effect on the skin, especially in cases of eczema, dermatitis and acne and is believed to result in healthy eyes and good night vision.

Carrots contain Vitamin C. These two antioxidants means that carrots are valuable for boosting the immune system and restoring health to convalescents.

Carrots are believed to offer protection against various cancers and heart disease and to help lower cholesterol levels if eaten daily.

Saturday, 7 February 2009

Health Foods - Broccoli

Broccoli:

An ideal food, broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals - Vitamins A and C (a cup of cooked Broccoli contains more Vitamin C than two Oranges), beta carotene, B2, B5 and folate, zinc and iron.

It comprises 90 per cent water and contains very few calories.

Broccoli is another free radical fighting food, protecting cells in the brain and body from oxidative damage.

It provides protection against heart disease and a range of infections, particularly respiratory ones, and is thought to be a major force in fighting bowel cancer.

Its detoxifying properties mean that broccoli can prevent a built up of harmful toxins within the body, allowing the liver and the digestive system to function more effectively and ultimately improving skin condition.

In addition, the folate found in broccoli promotes the production of the mood lifting chemical serotonin beneficial for those suffering from depression.

Thursday, 5 February 2009

Health Foods - Bananas

Bananas:
A rich source of protein and a good source of fibre, bananas also have potent energizing qualities, making them an ideal snack when you feel low on energy. They are a healthy option for fulfilling a craving for something sweet.
The amino acid found in bananas has a mildly sedative effect so makes them a good snack to have at bedtime. It also helps alleviate the symptoms of depression, anxiety and PMS.
Bananas are high in antioxidants - Vitamin C and beta carotene, the precursor of Vitamin A - and in Potassium. They also contain Vitamin B6, which helps protect against heart disease and regulates the nervous system.
Being generally easy to digest, bananas make particularly good food for convalescents or those with appetite related conditions.