PART THREE: Health Conditions

 
From the bitterness of disease man learns the sweetness of health. 
—Proverb

 

The information in this section is organized by health condition and is intended to serve as a cross reference to the information provided earlier in the book. Under each condition you will find the medicinal foods recommended or suggested for that particular condition.  

Anemia

Banana

Bananas are high in iron which is essential for the production of hemoglobin, myoglobin, and enzymes essential in the production of red blood cells. They are therefore an excellent food for anemic persons.

Beets

Anemia is a condition in which too few red blood cells are in circulation. Iron deficiency is the most frequent cause of anemia. Beets are good source of iron which regenerates and reactivates the red blood cells and supplies fresh oxygen to the body. The copper content in beets helps make the iron more available to the body.

Acid Reflux

Mango

Mangoes taste so delicious that people often forget how healthy they really are. Mangoes are high in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B1, and B2, niacin, potassium, iron, and fiber. They are good for the kidneys, digestive system of the body and the skin.

Acne

Lemon

Lemon decreases redness and irritation from acne and restores skin to health. Lemons are rich in vitamin C which has anti-inflammatory properties and alpha-hydroxy acid which works as a skin exfoliator.

Arteriosclerosis

Beets

The juice of this wonderful root is a powerful solvent for inorganic calcium deposits that cause the arteries to harden and therefore it is very useful in fighting arteriosclerosis. It helps to keep the blood vessels and the arterial system in a very sound condition.

Asthma Inflammation

Carrots

Carrots contain beta carotene, which may decrease the asthma symptoms caused by exercise. Carrots are a top source for beta-carotene, hence the name. Beta-carotene may also reduce lung inflammation caused by toxins.

Orange

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes wheezing, difficulty breathing and chest tightness Asthma symptoms can be triggered by allergens, such as pollen or pet dander, by non-allergic triggers, such as emotional stress, physical activity, cold air, smoke, or viruses. Consuming oranges and other citrus fruits may help reduce your symptoms. Citrus fruits are rich sources of vitamin A and C which help lessen lung inflammation associated with cigarette smoke and other pollutants.

Pineapple

The bromelain in pineapple reduces asthma inflammation. Studies have found that bromelain can significantly reduce markers of lung inflation and reduce the total white blood cells which normally increase with the onset of asthma.

Bone Loss

Olives

Hydroxytyrosol is a phytonutrient in olive oil has been found to have the potential to help us prevent bone loss. Several studies have found increased depositing of calcium in bone and decreased loss of total bone mass following consumption of this olive phytonutrient.

Brain Fog

Apple

Eating apples can improve your memory and help you sustain overall brain health. Apples contain a larger percentage of phosphorus than any other fruit or vegetable. For this reason it is an invaluable food for brain health. Sufferers from cognitive problems such as brain fog and poor memory should eat at least two apples every day. The effects of the antioxidants and flavonoids present in apples have been shown to reduce brain-cell inflammation and oxidation that occurs naturally due to the presence of free radicals. Eating apples increases acetylcholine, which is a critical neurotransmitter for memory and brain health. Eating apples has also been shown to diminish accumulations of toxins in the brain, particularly beta-amyloid, which is thought to be one of the main factors causing Alzheimer's disease.

Cancer

Asparagus

Asparagus is packed with antioxidants and can neutralize cell-damaging free radicals. Asparagus is the best food source of glutathione, a detoxifying compound that helps break down carcinogens and other harmful compounds like free radicals. In addition, Asparin A, a compound in asparagus, has been found to halt the growth liver cancer cells and can even cause death in those cells.

Blackberries

According to a study published The Journal of Biological Chemistry, the anthocyanins in blackberries may help prevent or inhibit the growth of cancerous cells.[12] In addition, the high concentration of antioxidants found in blackberries may help prevent free radical mediated damage, thereby reducing the risk of chronic conditions such as cancer.

Blueberries

Blueberries contain phenolic compounds which, in harmony with anthocyanin and other antioxidants can do wonders to prevent or treat cancers. Studies published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry showed that the phenolic compounds in blueberries can inhibit colon cancer cell proliferation. Another study at the Beckman Research Institute showed that blueberries have the potential to inhibit the growth of Triple Negative Breast Cancer, a particularly aggressive form of breast tumor

Broccoli

Diets high in broccoli have been linked with a lower risk of certain types of cancer. Broccoli contains certain chemicals that work through numerous mechanisms to inhibit tumor cell adhesion, spread, and invasion. These substances act as antioxidants, boost detoxifying enzymes in the body, and may even produce beneficial changes in gene expression. Studies suggest that a broccoli compound known as sulforaphane induces cancer cells to commit a sort of cellular suicide.

Grapefruit

Pink and red grapefruits are excellent sources of lycopene. Lycopene has a high capacity to help fight oxygen free radicals and is a powerful agent against tumors and cancers. Grapefruit also contains liminoids and naringenin. Liminoids may help prevent cancerous cells from proliferating and also inhibit tumor formation by promoting the formation of glutathione-S-transferase, a detoxifying enzyme. Naringenin is an antioxidant compound which has been shown to repair damaged DNA in prostate cancer cells. 

Mango

Mangoes are rich in phenols, such as quercetin, isoquercitrin, astragalin, fisetin, gallic acid and methylgallat, and enzymes which have cancer preventing capacities. Mangoes are also high in a soluble fiber which has been linked to a lower risk of cancers of the gastrointestinal tract. Mangoes also provide vitamin C which helps protect cells from free radical damage and reduces the risk of cancer.

Olives

Olives are a great source of vitamin E and monounsaturated fat, which have the ability to neutralize free radicals in the body. If our cells get overwhelmed by oxidative stress cause by free radicals and chronic excessive inflammation, our risk of cell cancer is increased. By providing us with rich supplies of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients, olives can help us avoid this dangerous combination of chronic oxidative stress and chronic inflammation.

 

Studies have shown that olive oil exerts a protective effect against certain malignant tumors in the breast, prostate, and digestive tract. Studies have also shown that consuming olives or olive oil leads to a lower risk of colon cancer. Olive oil rich diets have been shown to reduce the number of cancerous lesions, result in less aggressive tumors and a better prognosis.

Papaya

Cancer is one of the world's leading killers. Papaya can be very beneficial for reducing your risk of developing certain types of cancers. Studies suggest that the proteolytic enzymes in papaya can digest the fibrin protein layer of cancer cells that usually surrounds and protects them, leaving the cancerous cells more susceptible to the body’s immune response. The papaya also contains isothiocyanates which may help prevent cancer by eliminating potential carcinogens from our bodies and enhancing the action of tumor suppressing proteins and lycopene, which research has shown to have anticancer properties.

Tomato

Tomatoes are a natural cancer fighter. Lycopene is rare in foods, and tomatoes are one of only a few that are rich in this powerful antioxidant. Clinical studies have shown that lycopene can reduce the risk of cancers such as prostate, cervical, mouth, throat, stomach, colon, rectal, prostate, and ovarian cancer. In addition, the vitamin A and C in tomatoes fight the free radicals which can cause cell damage. Ironically, processed tomatoes (sauce, paste, etc.) are more effective than raw tomatoes at reducing cancer risk. The processing breaks down the cell walls which trap the lycopene making it more bioavailable. Tomatoes have been shown to be particularly effective against prostate cancers.

Canker Sore

Lemons

Lemons have antibacterial and antiviral properties which can accelerate the healing process of canker sores. Mix the juice of freshly squeezed lemon into a glass of lukewarm water and rinse your mouth with this solution several times a day.

Chest Congestion

Orange

Chest congestion can make breathing difficult and can cause coughing and, shortness of breath. Certain foods have an effect on the secretion of mucus by the glands lining your respiratory system. Oranges are rich in vitamin C which is an essential nutrient that may help increase the effectiveness of your immune system. This can help reduce the severity and duration of conditions that cause chest congestion. Foods that are rich in vitamin C also tend to be a natural source of water, which can help reduce the thickness of mucus.

Circulation Problems

Beets

Beet juice is best known as a blood purifier and blood builder that help in the creation of red blood cells. Beet juice can help in the construction of red blood cells which help to carry oxygen around the body. Beets contain nitrate which causes dilation of the blood cells allowing more blood to get around the veins thereby reducing high blood pressure. This then improves circulation.

Cognitive Problems

Apples

Eating apples can improve your memory and help you sustain overall brain health. Apples contain a larger percentage of phosphorus than any other fruit or vegetable. For this reason it is an invaluable food for brain health. Sufferers from cognitive problems such as brain fog and poor memory should eat at least two apples every day. The effects of the antioxidants and flavonoids present in apples have been shown to reduce brain-cell inflammation and oxidation that occurs naturally due to the presence of free radicals. Eating apples increases acetylcholine, which is a critical neurotransmitter for memory and brain health. Eating apples has also been shown to diminish accumulations of toxins in the brain, particularly beta-amyloid, which is thought to be one of the main factors causing Alzheimer's disease

Constipation

Flaxseed

Everyone experiences a bout of constipation now and then. Constipation is often simply the result of consuming too little fiber, and adding more fiber to your diet is the simple remedy. Flax seed are high in fiber. You’d be hard-pressed to find a food higher in fiber than flax

Cough

Thyme

The next time you have a cold or cough, try a cup of thyme tea. Thyme has shown to have bronchodilating and antispasmodic effects, so it helps relax the bronchial tubes and alleviates coughing fits. Thyme oil is used in many cough syrups because it acts as an expectorant loosening mucous and has antibacterial and antiseptic properties.

Depression

Beets

Depression, mental fatigue, and insomnia have been linked with lower levels of folate. One cup of beets supplies you with 30% of your daily needs. In addition, beets contain trimethylglycine, the same substance that is used in certain treatments of depression. It also contains tryptophan, which relaxes the mind and creates a sense of well-being.

Cacao (Chocolate)

Cacao is a mood enhancer. Phenylethylamine, in combination with theobromine, can elevate mood and create a sense well-being. Eating cacao can raise your natural levels of serotonin and create a balancing effect

Diarrhea

Blackberries

Blackberries are one of the best foods around for the treatment of diarrhea. Blackberries contain tannins that help to tone the intestinal tract and soothe diarrhea. They also help prevent the irritating and toxic substances that cause diarrhea from being absorbed back into the bloodstream.

Gas

Thyme

Thyme is often recommended to promote good digestion and relieve gas and bloating. The volatile oils in thyme help reduce gas while its phenols work as an antispasmodic, helping to relieve intestinal cramping.

Gout

Apples

Gout occurs when the body has high levels of uric acid. Gout symptoms occur when excess uric acid forms sharp crystals which collect between the joints and cause painful inflammation. The malic acid contained in apples helps to neutralize uric acid and decrease gout attacks.

Gastritis

Banana

Bananas are a good choice to settle an upset digestive system. Bananas normalize colonic functions in the large intestine by absorbing large amounts of water. The high level of potassium in bananas helps to replace electrolytes that may be lost during bouts of diarrhea. Bananas also contain insoluble fiber, which helps relieve constipation and inulin, a prebiotic soluble fiber that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestinal system.

Papaya

Undigested proteins can lead to many health issues, such as gastrointestinal problems and an overgrowth of flatulence causing bacteria in the colon. The enzymes in papaya can improve digestion by breaking down proteins into their individual amino acids.

Pineapple

The bromelain in pineapple can improve digestion by breaking down proteins into their individual amino acids.

Halitosis

Lemons

Chewing on fresh lemons or rinsing with lemon juice can help freshen breath after consuming certain foods, spices, alcohol, or cigarettes.

Parsley

Bad breath can be an embarrassing nuisance especially in social situations. Parsley contains chemicals that help to freshen bad breath. Parsley is rich in chlorophyll which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and helps to neutralize toxins and pollutants and act as a natural deodorizer. Chewing a small handful of parsley allows you to gain the breath-freshening benefits of chlorophyll. This may be reason why parsley makes an appearance as a garnish on so many restaurant dishes.

Heart Disease

Apples

Apples are full of antioxidant compounds which help inhibit inflammation and lower levels of cholesterol and two other markers associated with plaque and inflammation in artery walls. Apples are also high in fiber which has been shown to lower cholesterol level. Studies have shown that frequent apple eaters have reduced risk of suffering from heart attacks and strokes compared with non-apple eaters.

Blackberries

Blackberries may help to prevent heart disease by inactivating the enzymes that damage the endothelial cells lining the blood vessels. They contain high amounts of fiber, are rich in polyphenols, vitamin C, and contain a bit of iron, calcium, and vitamin A. The antioxidants in blackberries also protect the cells of the cardiovascular system from harmful effects of unstable oxygen radicals.

Blueberries

Blueberries have a high anthocyanin content. Anthocyanin has been shown to dilate arteries, counter the buildup of plaque, and provide other cardiovascular benefits. Blueberries are also rich in fiber and antioxidants which also help reduce the likelihood of heart attacks. A Harvard School of Public Health study published in the January 2013 issue of the Journal of the American Heart Association, found that eating three or more servings of blueberries per week may reduce a woman’s risk of heart attack by as much as 33%.

Carrots

Diets high in carrots are associated with a lower risk of heart disease. Carrots are high in fiber and beta-carotene, nutrients which help keep blood pressure down and reduce cholesterol levels, thus reducing the risk of heart disease.

Coconut

Many people can’t imagine how a food high in saturated fat like coconut can be beneficial for the heart. Extra virgin coconut oil is beneficial for the heart because it contains about 50% lauric acid, which helps in preventing various heart problems including high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. In addition, the saturated fats present in coconut oil are Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT’s) which do not lead to increase in LDL levels. The coconut actually protects against heart disease by increasing good cholesterol and lowering the ratio of bad and good cholesterol

Kiwi

Kiwi can be considered a superfood for your heart. The Cleveland Clinic has recommended kiwis as one of the most powerful foods for the heart. Kiwis help to lower triglyceride levels and reduce platelet hyperactivity which plays a role in the development and stability of atherosclerotic vascular plaques and limits the tendency of blood to form clots. The vitamin C and E in kiwi combined with the polyphenols and magnesium, potassium, B vitamins, and copper, all act to protect the cardiovascular system.

Hot Peppers

Hot peppers are a heart healthy food. The compounds in hot peppers, including capsaicin, have been found to lower blood pressure, decrease cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk for dangerous blood clots

Oats

The accumulation of cholesterol is implicated in many types of cardiovascular disease. Oatmeal and oat bran are significant sources of soluble and insoluble fiber. One component of the soluble fiber found in oats is beta-glucans, which has proven effective in lowering blood cholesterol. Oats are also one of the best sources of compounds called tocotrienols which inhibit cholesterol synthesis and have been found to lower blood cholesterol. Research also indicates that the antioxidants found in oats reduce cholesterol by reducing the ability of blood cells to stick to the inside of artery walls. A daily bowl of oatmeal can lower cholesterol by up to 23 percent and reduce the risk of heart disease by almost half

Olives

Oleuropein is found exclusively in olives and has been shown to decrease oxidation of LDL cholesterol. In addition, the high monounsaturated fat content of olives has been associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and decreased blood pressure. The oleic acid found in olives affects changes at cell membrane levels which result in decreased blood pressure.

High Blood Pressure

Broccoli

Research indicates that glucoraphanin, a compound found in broccoli, may reduce the risk of high blood pressure. Broccoli also contains potassium, magnesium, and calcium which also help regulate blood pressure.

Spinach

Spinach contains almost 40% of magnesium your body needs. Magnesium is essential in maintaining healthy levels of blood pressure. In fact, just a salad-size portion of spinach will work to lower high blood pressure within hours.

High Blood Sugar

Artichoke

An artichoke has a glycemic index ranking of 15, which places it among the very lowest foods or beverages on the glycemic index. Scientific evidence shows that the artichoke can help balance blood glucose levels and help deal with diabetes

Cinnamon

Cinnamon has been shown to be of great value in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Cinnamon mimics the effects of insulin and has a regulatory effect on blood sugar, making it especially beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes. The American Diabetes Association has found that taking 3 to 6 grams of cinnamon per day can lower glucose levels in people with Type 2 diabetes.

High Cholesterol

Avocado

The oleic acid in avocadoes can help lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels while increasing the HDL (good cholesterol) levels.

Almonds

Almonds are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and are packed with numerous health promoting phytochemicals. Almonds contain unsaturated fatty acids like oleic and palmitoleic acids which have been shown to lower blood LDL (bad cholesterol) and increase HDL (good cholesterol) levels and thus helping to prevent coronary artery disease and strokes.

Cinnamon

Scientists have found evidence that cinnamon helps lower lipid levels. Just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon per day may help you lower triglycerides and LDL cholesterol levels

Grapefruit

Grapefruits can help reduce cholesterol levels. Grapefruits are high in antioxidants and contain pectin, a soluble fiber that has been shown to slow down the progression of atherosclerosis. Studies have shown that grapefruits can reduce blood levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Both red and blond grapefruits can positively influence cholesterol levels, but red grapefruit is more effective, especially in lowering triglycerides

Mango

Mangoes have high levels of soluble fiber, Pectin and Vitamin C, all of which help to lower serum cholesterol levels, especially LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol). Research suggests that compounds in mangoes could ease the effects of high cholesterol.

IBS

Coconut

Extra virgin coconut oil has been shown to help improve the digestive system and thus prevents various stomach and digestion related problems including irritable bowel syndrome. The saturated fats present in coconut oil have antimicrobial properties which can help control the bacteria, fungi and parasites that cause indigestion.

Infections

Garlic

Garlic contains allicin which is a powerful antibiotic and a potent agent that helps the body to inhibit the ability of germs to grow and reproduce. Garlic has been used effectively against a whole host of bacteria, fungus, and viruses. Some studies suggest that garlic is an even more powerful germ-killer than either penicillin or tetracycline.

Inflammation

Blackberries

Inflammation is really the cause of a lot of our ill health. As we age, we become more susceptible to free radical damage and inflation. Blackberries are full of antioxidants which protect the body against inflammation and free radicals. More specifically, studies have shown that the phenolic components of blackberries exhibit powerful anti-inflammatory properties and inhibit the activity of inflammatory chemicals such as interleukins.

Blueberries

Blueberries are excellent anti-inflammatories and pain relievers. Blueberries increase the amounts of compounds called heat-shock proteins which help reduce inflammation and pain. Blueberries also contain salicylic acid which is the natural version of aspirin and is known to thin the blood and reduce pain.

Olive Oil

The anti-inflammatory abilities of the monounsaturated fats, vitamin E and polyphenols in Olive oil also contains a chemical called oleocanthal, which acts as a painkiller and inhibits inflammation by the same means that drugs like Ibuprofen do.

Kidney Stones

Lemon

If you've ever passed a kidney stone, you won't forget the sudden, intense pain. Kidney stones form when urine in the kidney becomes supersaturated with stone-forming salts. Lemon juice increases the amount of citrate in the urine which helps to inhibit kidney stones. If you are prone to kidney stones, you may want to consider drinking low sugar or sugar free lemonade on a regular basis. Scientific evidence suggests that drinking 1 to 2 liters of lemon juice as lemonade per day can help you lower the risk of developing kidney stones.

Liver Complaints

Apple

Having a healthy liver results in greater energy and general well-being. A poorly functioning liver can result in tiredness, headaches, allergies, problem skin and weight gain. Apples periodically appear on the dinner table in the form of apple sauce or chutney to accompany dishes like roast pork or pork chops. The cook who created this menu was evidently acquainted with the action of the fruit on the liver. Sufferers from sluggish livers should eat apples. Apples contain pectin that bind to heavy metals in the body (in particular in the colon) and help their excretion. This reduces the load on the liver and its detoxification capacities.

Artichoke

Few veggies are as potent as the artichoke in helping an ailing liver. Studies have found they may even regenerate liver tissue. Experts believe that artichokes help stimulate production of bile in the liver as well as promote the movement of bile through the system. These two functions are vital to the liver’s wellbeing. One of the jobs of bile is to remove toxins through the bowel. If bile is not transported adequately, the liver has an increased risk of being damaged. It has been suggested that 30 minutes after eating globe artichoke, bile flow is increased by over 100%. Artichokes have long been used in folk and alternative medicine as a treatment for liver ailments and the scientific studies are now proving them to be correct.

Broccoli

The liver is one of the most important organs of the body. It is responsible for regulating blood sugar, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating harmful substances from the body. Broccoli is a very powerful detoxifier of the liver. Broccoli increases the amount of glucosinolate which help the liver to produce the enzymes it needs for its detoxification processes. Broccoli also contains chemicals that neutralize certain toxins

Garlic

A healthy liver maintains blood flow and circulation, breaking down nutrients from foods and distributing them to other body organs. Garlic contains allicin which is a sulphur-based compound needed by the liver for effective detoxification. The antioxidants in garlic help keep toxic substances filtered by your liver from reaching other organs. Garlic has been shown to help the liver rid the body of mercury, food additives, and the hormone estrogen.

Low Sex Drive

Mango

Mangoes are rich in vitamin E which has been shown to help to regulate sex hormones and boosts sex drive.

Muscle Cramps

Banana

A deficiency in potassium can cause muscle cramps and spasms, as well as greater susceptibility to injury. Bananas are high in potassium and thus can help relieve muscle cramps and spasms.

Memory Problems

Apple

Eating apples can improve your memory and help you sustain overall brain health. Apples contain a larger percentage of phosphorus than any other fruit or vegetable. For this reason it is an invaluable food for brain health. Sufferers from cognitive problems such as brain fog and poor memory should eat at least two apples every day. The effects of the antioxidants and flavonoids present in apples have been shown to reduce brain-cell inflammation and oxidation that occurs naturally due to the presence of free radicals. Eating apples increases acetylcholine, which is a critical neurotransmitter for memory and brain health. Eating apples has also been shown to diminish accumulations of toxins in the brain, particularly beta-amyloid, which is thought to be one of the main factors causing Alzheimer's disease

Blueberries

When it comes to brain health, there really is nothing quite like blueberries, some have even called them “brain berries”. Blueberries contain anthocyanin, selenium, vitamins A, B-complex, C, and E, zinc, sodium, potassium, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese. These power-packed berries can help prevent degeneration and death of neurons, brain-cells and restore health of the central nervous system. Blueberries help protect the brain from oxidative stress and may reduce the effects of age-related memory impairments like dementia and even Alzheimer’s. Blueberries have even been shown to improve learning capacity

Meniere’s Disease

Lemon

Meniere’s disease is an idiopathic disease involving the inner ear that is characterized by vertigo, hearing loss and pain, nausea and tinnitus. Meniere's disease does not have a cure; however lemons may bring some relief to those who suffer from this disease. Research has shown that Meniere’s disease patients treated with lemon bioflavonoid complex saw improvements in their vertigo and hearing symptoms. Although the exact physiologic mechanism by which this effect is produced is unknown, it is hypothesized that the bioflavonoids in lemon may act as a blocking agent on histidine decarboxylase.

Pain

Blueberries

Blueberries are excellent anti-inflammatories and pain relievers. Blueberries increase the amounts of compounds called heat-shock proteins which help reduce inflammation and pain. Blueberries also contain salicylic acid which is the natural version of aspirin and is known to thin the blood and reduce pain

Hot Peppers

Capsaicin, the active ingredient in hot peppers, has been shown to reduce pain. It acts by acts by binding to receptors in the cell wall of nerve endings and triggering an influx of calcium ions into the neurons. It also interferes with substance P, a chemical involved in transmitting pain impulses to the brain

Osteoporosis

Dairy Products

It is of course no secret that milk and other dairy products are one of the best sources of calcium and vitamin D, both of which are needed for healthy bones. If you can’t consume dairy products due to lactose intolerance or food allergies, there are other good sources of calcium such as tofu, calcium fortified juices and soy milk

Olives

Hydroxytyrosol is a phytonutrient in olive oil has been found to have the potential to help us prevent bone loss. Several studies have found increased depositing of calcium in bone and decreased loss of total bone mass following consumption of this olive phytonutrient.

Pumpkin Seeds

Magnesium and calcium work together to promote bone health. 50% of the body’s magnesium resides in the bones and low levels have been linked to fragile bones. Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of magnesium.

Tomato

Tomatoes can improve your vision. The vitamin A that tomatoes provide can improve vision and help prevent eye conditions such as night blindness and macular degeneration. A deficiency in vitamin A contributes to the development of night blindness. A one cup serving of fresh tomatoes provides 30% of the daily value of vitamin A.

Spinach

One cup of cooked spinach provides over 1000% of the daily recommended vitamin K which helps prevent excess activation of osteoclasts, the cells that break down bones. Vitamin K also promotes the synthesis of osteocalcin, an essential protein for maintaining the strength and density of our bones.

Poor Circulation

Beets

Beet juice is best known as a blood purifier and blood builder that help in the creation of red blood cells. Beet juice can help in the construction of red blood cells which help to carry oxygen around the body. Beets contain nitrate which causes dilation of the blood cells allowing more blood to get around the veins thereby reducing high blood pressure. This then improves circulation.

Skin Problems

Mango

If you suffer from skin problems, you may want to think about adding mangoes to your diet. Applying mangoes directly to the skin will help to get rid of clogged pores, however eating mangoes regularly helps to reduce dry skin and flakiness, leaving the skin soft and shining from the inside out.

Sore Throat

Lemon

Lemon and honey mixture makes an excellent sore throat relieving alternative. Lemons help reduce inflammation, cool down irritated sore throat and thin mucous congestion.

Urinary Tract Infection

 Blueberries

Everybody knows that cranberries help fight urinary tract infections, but for those of us who do not appreciate their tartness, blueberries are an excellent choice. Blueberries have been shown to be quite beneficial to urinary tract health. Bacteria like b-coli are responsible for urinary tract infections. Blueberries have a compound which inhibits the growth of these bacteria. Blueberries also have some antibiotic properties which add to this effect.

Vision Problems

Blueberries

Blueberries have the potential to slow down visual loss and prevent or delay age related ocular problems like macular degeneration and cataract due to their high levels of antioxidants including Carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin), Flavonoids (resveritrol, quercetin), vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamin A, selenium, zinc and phosphorus, which are very beneficial to ocular health.

Carrots

The beta-carotene in carrots helps to protect against macular degeneration and the development of senile cataracts. Studies have found that people who eat the plenty of carrots have a much lower risk of macular degeneration than those who eat very little.

Tomato

Tomatoes can improve your vision. The vitamin A that tomatoes provide can improve vision and help prevent eye conditions such as night blindness and macular degeneration. A deficiency in vitamin A contributes to the development of night blindness. A one cup serving of fresh tomatoes provides 30% of the daily value of vitamin A.

Wrinkles

Papaya

Papayas are a great source of antioxidant vitamin C, vitamin E and carotenoids, nutrients which can help protect your skin against free radicals known to cause damage that leads to wrinkles and signs of aging.

 

 


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