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“You’ll be surprised to know just how much the food you eat on a day to day basis can help your health,” says Carla Yardemian, nutritionist.
Yardemian says there is an availability of healthy food in local supermarkets ant the effectiveness of many have been scientifically proven.
What's good to eat?
The following is everything you wanted to know about certain organic foods but were afraid to ask:
Garlic: According to the National Cancer Institute, garlic is one of the best cancer fighters around. Every year, scientists find new cancer-fighting compounds in garlic. Among other things, garlic decreases the risk of developing stomach cancer.
Garlic works best when eaten raw. It fights off bacteria, fungus, infections, and viruses. In the past, because of its iodine content, garlic was used as a natural antibiotic like penicillin, until the latter was discovered in 1928.
In the case of heart problems one to two cloves a day are enough to lower the risk of heart attacks by half. Garlic also stimulates the immune system; helps the body get rid of toxins; lowers cholesterol and blood pressure; prevents blood clots; and has diuretic, anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties.
Unfortunately, because of its potency, too much garlic can cause bloating, fever and diarrhea. If you avoid garlic because of its pungent aftertaste, you can always use garlic extract pills that have the same efficiency and are odor free.
Lemons: Lemons are natural antiseptics so they are known to fight infections and germs.
“They also treat many skin conditions such as warts and, in the past, lemons were used as insect repellants,” says Yardemian.
Their high vitamin C content boosts the immune system and fights colds, pneumonia and fevers. Some believe lemons prevent asthma, headaches and arthritis, but that has yet to be proven scientifically.
Seaweed: As a result of the lack of scientific evidence surrounding this food, coupled with in relative inaccessibility, most of the information on seaweed is based on observation and tradition. However, some of its healing properties have been proven.
Seaweed is full of iodine, which is used in medicine as a disinfectant and to treat goiters (swelling of the thyroid gland) and thyroid cancer. Because of its calcium, magnesium and iron content, seafood maintains healthy blood, bones, muscles and nerve functions.
“Japanese women have a reduced risk of breast cancer due to the iodine and selenium abundant in seaweed, which is a staple in their in their traditional cuisine,” says Yardemian.
Seaweed also slows the aging process, promotes hair growth, and reduces asthma and bronchitis. Many skin products also claim that seaweed has therapeutic effects.
Beans: As a natural gas inducer beans are often the butt of many jokes. However, their medicinal value is no laughing matter.
Beans lower the risk of developing prostate cancer and half a cup a day can lower cholesterol levels by 10 percent. Beans also balance blood sugar levels, making them a great food for diabetics. Not surprisingly, they also regulate colon functions. And last, but not least, beans are a major source of protein for vegetarians.
Salmon: Of all the fatty fish, salmon has the highest omega-3 fat content, which prevents heart problems by reducing the level of blood lipids.
“Studies show that eating fish, specifically salmon, two to three times a week lowers the risk of heart attacks by half and can also lower blood pressure,” says Yardemian. “It may reduce arthritis, prevent asthma, fight multiple sclerosis, and prevent colon and breast cancer.”
However, when opting for fish cuisine, choose grilled or broiled salmon and avoid the smoked variety.
Apples: Well, it's official: an apple a day can definitely keep the doctor away.
“According to a recent study apple eaters had a 59 percent lower risk of developing cardio vascular diseases,” says Yardemian. “Moreover, apples contain a very potent anti-oxidant (quercetin), which decreases the risk of developing cancer, especially that of the lung, as well as having some anti-bacterial and anti-viral qualities.”
This extremely popular fruit contains vitamins A and C, boron and lots of soluble fibers, which make them effective at lowering cholesterol levels and regulating blood sugar levels. In addition, studies show that the smell of green apples suppresses the appetite and certain alternative medicines use their scent to induce weight-loss.
Carrot: Carrots are a potent medicinal food because of their vitamin A content. By consuming 2 carrots per day, we get 100 percent of our daily vitamin A needs. This vitamin is linked to fighting cancer, strengthening the immune system and protecting arteries.
One carrot a day can reduce the risk of lung cancer in half and the belief that carrots are good for the eyes is true. They also have a soothing effect on the stomach, reducing constipation and diarrhea. Furthermore, according to The American Journal of Clinical nutrition, carrots cleanse the body by flushing out heavy metals from its tissues.
Onions: Studies show that onions prevent many cancers in animals. In humans, it is a well-known fact that onions inhibit stomach cancer partly due to their high antioxidant content.
“Onions do have a drug like effect in reducing cholesterol and glucose levels, moreover they reduce the risk of blood clot formations that decrease the risks of heart attacks and strokes.”
Onions, eaten raw, can also fight asthma and decrease the inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis.
Oranges: As a result of their vitamin C levels, these sun fruits cast off colds and flues and also help prevent lung, stomach, pancreatic, colon, and breast cancer.
On top of that, they also contain potassium and vitamin B.
“Whether solid or in juice form, their healing properties are very effective,” explains Yardemian. “The combination of vitamin C and flavonoids make oranges a very valuable aid in strengthening the immune system, supporting connective tissues of the body - such as joints and gums - and promoting overall good health.”
Broccoli: Many don't know that a single serving of broccoli contains 97 percent of our daily vitamin C intake, which is what makes it a great anti-inflammatory treatment and boost to the body's immunity.
“Antioxidants reduce the risk of cancer, particularly of the breast, stomach, bowel, lungs and kidneys,” says Yardemian.
Its fiber lower cholesterol levels and the mineral chromium regulate blood sugar levels, making it a great food for diabetics. Yardemian says that in proper amounts, this amazing food can prevent ulcers and guards against cataracts.
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