|
Doctors urge you to eat a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables, but it’s important to know that some foods are better for you than others. What you put into your body makes a big difference in how you perform on a daily basis and as a result, this can affect your health in the long run. The right foods in the right proportions can make you feel great and make you and your body happier. They can also be the miracle you’ve been looking for to promote weight loss and keep it off. These foods could also stop any insomnia problems you may have and help you to regain a youthful appearance. ‘Superfoods’ may be amazing, but how amazing can they really be if no one can get them? The following are not only easily maintained and have scientific proof behind them, but they are also affordable and can be found at any grocery store. Coconut Oil Coconut oil, once thought to be unhealthy, has been proven to help our bodies become more resistant to viruses and bacteria that can cause illnesses. It improves blood-sugar control, boosts the metabolism and increases energy, keeping weight balanced. Coconut oil is great for cooking and baking and can be used in place of butter and any other fats typically used. It has been used as a moisturizer for the skin and hair, containing high amounts of vitamin E. Aim for taking two tablespoons daily and avoid labels that include “partially hydrogenated” on them. Turmeric This bright yellow Indian spice is found in numerous dishes in the subcontinent and is an antioxidant, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. While a prominent tool in the ancient Indian medical tradition of Ayurveda, turmeric has been shown to help prevent four of the most common forms of cancer in the US, as well as protect against Alzheimer’s, improve circulation and prevent blood clots. Cooking with it in the powdered form or sprinkling it over salads is preferred, but taking caplets found at health stores can be an alternative. Indian brides make a paste with the spice and apply it to the face and body for glowing, youthful skin that is resistant to wrinkles. Creamy turmeric tea is also another popular drink in the east that helps calm nerves and boost brain functions. Tart Cherries Tart cherries and their juice are said to be the ultimate antioxidant. Studies have shown that they are ideal for pain relief and muscle inflammation problems that would typically be solved with an over the counter ibuprofen. These cherries have also been linked with lowering the risk for heart disease and provide a natural dose of melatonin – a natural sleep aid. It is recommended to drink the juice at around dinnertime for sleep aid benefits. Sweet Potatoes Sweet potatoes are full of lutein and carotenoids, both which have been known to fight off cancer cells, as well as alpha carotene, which promotes a longer life. Eating one cup of sweet potatoes each week can decrease the risk of skin, lung and prostate cancers. Studies have shown that these tubers are filled with vitamins that are essential to maintain skin’s youth and elasticity and prevent heart attacks. The versatility of the sweet potato makes it very easy to include in your diet, from baking and steaming, to roasting or grilling. Mustard Greens Rich in vitamin K, this leafy green helps support blood and bone strength. Sulforaphane is also found in these, which helps reduce the amount of bile acid in our systems. This acid is what leads to higher levels of cholesterol. The anti-inflammatory properties have been known to improve cardiovascular health, preventing heart disease. Simply boil them then toss with a little olive oil and lemon, which is the way Greeks enjoy the leafy greens. For more tips and suggestions on healthy eating, contact Inspirit Yoga & Fitness at (407) 501-4007 today!
Related Articles -
healthy diet, yoga, fitness, food, inspirit yoga and fitness,
| 
