TOMATOES - Some
benefits attributed to eating the tomato included a strengthened immune system,
better heart health, the neutralizing of free radicals and safeguarding of
disease (including cancer) and the prevention of blood clots.
NUTS - Eating foods rich in these
fats can help reduce bad cholesterol and lower your risk of heart disease and
stroke. As well as their heart benefits, nuts are also a great source of
protein and are packed with fibre, antioxidants, fatty acids and vitamins and
minerals.
BEANS - Studies have found that
beans are not only excellent weight-loss and energy foods, but they are a great
source of antioxidants, protein and nutrients (such as iron, manganese and B
vitamins). Beans are also an excellent source of soluble fibre, which can help
to reduce cholesterol, stabilise blood sugar and improve the digestive system,
while a study by scientists at the University College of London showed that
beans can also help prevent cancer.
BEETROOT - Various studies have
suggested that drinking beetroot juice can improve stamina when exercising,
lower cholesterol and blood pressure, improve heart health and liver function,
reduce risk of dementia, and fight against cancer. The versatile vegetable is
also a good source of many vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, which is
important for tissue growth and repair, and folate, which helps to reduce the
risk of birth defects in unborn babies, as well as helping to prevent anaemia.
ONION - Studies
have suggested that both onions and garlic can help lower cholesterol, while
findings published in the Journal of Nutrition showed that onions could help
lower blood pressure. Onions and garlic also have antiviral and antibacterial
properties, so can help to fight against bacteria and illness in the body,
Berries -They super healthy fruits are extremely high in antioxidants and have many individual health benefits, including the ability to help prevent dementia (blackcurrants and boysenberries), fight off colon cancer (blueberries), improve vision (bilberries) and ward off urinary tract infections (cranberries).
OATS - helping to
reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes, lower cholesterol, reduce blood
pressure and benefit the digestive system. Oats are also a great source of slow
release energy, meaning that they will keep you feeling full and active for
longer.
DARK LEAFY GREEN - Some of the reputed health
benefits of eating your greens include lowered blood pressure, improved eye
health and a reduced risk of cognitive decline.
Oily fish - such as salmon,
mackerel, sardines and trout - are renowned for their health benefits when
eaten in moderation (between two and four portions a week). Not only are they a
great source of vitamins and minerals - including immune-boosting vitamins A
and D - but they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These super healthy
unsaturated fatty acids have many health benefits, having been linked to a
lowered risk of heart disease, brain damage, stroke, dementia and prostate
cancer. Research findings published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology
also suggest that omega-3 fatty acids can benefit eye health by halting the
progress of age-related macular degeneration.
