Friday, October 7, 2011

Top 10 Foods That Will Improve Your Health

When it comes to improving your health, small changes can make a big difference. Whether you decide you want to take a multi-vitamin, go for a brisk walk or meditate it only takes one small change in your daily routine to make a significant difference in your overall health.

One of the best ways to get healthy is to add nutritious and vitamin rich foods to your daily diet. Here are the top 10 foods that will improve your health and well being.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a heart healthy whole grain food that can lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. It is a complex carbohydrate that is slowly digested and chock full of vitamins and minerals including manganese, magnesium, selenium, folate and vitamin B1.

Salmon

Wild salmon is a super food. It's a rich source of omega-3 fatty acid which is known to protect against heart disease, inflammation and cancer. Wild salmon is also an excellent source of vitamin D, B12, B6, selenium, niacin and magnesium.

Apple

Apples are one of the healthiest treats nature has to offer. They are filled with health promoting phytonutrients, flavonoids and dietary fiber which can help regulate blood sugar. Also, the pectin in apples can help promote a healthy bacterial balance within the intestines improving digestion and relieving tummy troubles.

Garlic

Garlic has been used for hundreds of years for medicinal purposes and studies show it has the ability to help prevent heart disease, cancer, digestive upset, high blood sugar and high blood pressure. It can also provide protection against the common cold.

Wild Blueberries

Wild blueberries are tiny, tangy and delicious. These small robust little berries are a nutritional powerhouse. These anti-aging berries possess immense antioxidant activities which helps protect against cancer, urinary tract infections, vision problems and stroke.

Wheat Germ

Also referred to as wheat berry, wheat germ contains a substance known as phytosterols which can effectively reduce cholesterol levels. Wheat germ is also an essential source of health promoting nutrients including vitamin E, magnesium, tryptophan, omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fiber.

Flax Seed

Flax seeds are a nutritional powerhouse. This tiny seed is consumed in the form of ground flax meal or flax oil and contains omega-3 fatty acids, lignans and both soluble and insoluble fiber.

Studies indicate that the lignans in flax seed can protect against the onset of various diseases including breast cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease. Lignans have also demonstrated the ability to reduce inflammation and support brain function.

Yogurt

For those individuals with digestion or immune problems yogurt is an excellent dietary food source. It is easy to digest, supports colon health and boosts immunity. The Probiotics found in yogurt contain friendly bacteria that colonize within the intestine to support and enhance digestion by breaking down foods and improving the overall functioning of the digestive system.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a super green food that supports the nervous system, immune system and digestive system. These small green florets contain vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A as well as potassium, riboflavin, magnesium and plenty of fiber.

A healthy diet that contains regular servings of broccoli can help prevent cancer, inflammation and oxidative stress within the body.

Almonds

This heart healthy nut contains an array of health supporting phytochemicals that can reduce the risk of a heart attack, lower cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation. Almonds are also packed with immune supporting nutrients including magnesium, vitamin E, phosphorus, zinc and calcium.

These top ten foods can improve your overall health when consumed regularly along with a healthy diet and lifestyle. Take advantage of all that nature has to offer by indulging in some of the tastiest and healthiest foods on the planet.

Krista Tannahill is a writer and blogger at Health Tips Magazine.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Krista_I_Tannahill


No comments:

Post a Comment