The importance of a healthy diet is paramount in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. But with different sources proclaiming their own health mantras, it can be very confusing to find out what to eat. This article provides a list of the healthiest food stuff for a balanced diet.
1. Lemon
A single lemon has more Vitamin C than the regulated dietary intake. Lemon juices are not only known to reduce cholesterol levels, but also boost the complexion and strengthen your bones.
Citrus Flavonoids are proven to arrest the growth of cancer cells and reduce inflammation in organs. So, add a slice of lemon to your green tea for a healthier cuppa! Studies have found that citric acid present in lemon, increases your body's ability to absorb the antioxidants in the tea by about 80 percent. Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon into a glass of warm water with honey, to flush the body of its accumulated toxins.
2. Broccoli
A medium-sized stalk of broccoli contains more Vitamin K than the regulated dietary requirement. It also contains double the amount of Vitamin C. A good intake will ensure proper growth and maintenance of your bones.
With its anti-carcinogenic properties, it has been proved to ward of different types of cancer. Put a healthy dose of broccoli in your salads and soups. Make it a regularly consumed vegetable and watch as your health improves.
3. Dark Chocolate
Just one-fourth of an ounce daily can reduce blood pressure in otherwise healthy individuals. Cocoa powder is rich in flavonoids and antioxidants,
which have shown to reduce ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol and increase ‘good’ HDL levels. Shave off a little bit of dark chocolate on your coffee and savour the great aroma and taste.
4. Potatoes
A potato contains 66 micrograms of cell-building folate, which equals the nutrients present in a cup of spinach or broccoli. Sweet potatoes contain almost
eight times the amount of cancer-fighting and immune-boosting vitamin A you need daily. A quick tip: Let your boiled potato cool before eating. Research shows that doing so can help you burn up to 25 percent more fat after a meal, thanks to fat-resistant starch.
5. Salmon
It is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been proved to reduce risks of depression, heart disease, and cancer. Daily consumption of about 3
ounces of salmon accounts for 50 percent of your daily dose of niacin, which in the long run protects against Alzheimer's disease and memory loss. Wild salmon contains 16 times as much toxic polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) in comparison to the cultured varieties.
6. Walnuts
Walnuts contain the most omega-3 fatty acids, among all the nuts. This helps reduce cholesterol. Omega-3 has been shown to improve mood swings and improve blood circulation and result
in good skin. They are also active agents in fighting cancer. Feeling sleep deprived? Eat a few for dessert: The antioxidant melatonin, found in walnuts, helps to regulate sleep.
7. Avocados
Also known as the butter fruit, avocados are rich in healthy and satisfying fats proven to lower cholesterol by about 22 percent. It contains more than half the
dietary fibre and 40 percent of the daily folate needs. This reduces your risk of heart disease. Adding it to your salad can increase the absorption of beta-carotenes by three to five times.
8. Garlic
Garlic is a powerful disease fighter that can inhibit the growth of bacteria, including E. coli. Allicin, a compound found in garlic, works as a potent anti-inflammatory and has been shown to
help lower cholesterol and blood-pressure levels. Crushed fresh garlic releases the most amount of allicin. Just don't overcook; garlic exposed to high heat for more than 10 minutes loses important nutrients. Consuming the above-mentioned foodstuff will not only boost your immune system but will also help in regulating the body functions.
