Super healing foods

Head for the produce aisle to fight cancer and other life-threatening illnesses

- by Debra Anchors

We all know that eating fruits and vegetables is good for us. But now scientists have proof that an apple a day DOES keep the doctor away. Fruits and vegetables are consistently studied for their disease-fighting potential, and according to research, many of our favorites are packed with phytochemicals that have extraordinary healing properties.

Produce power -

Apples	Contain vitamins A and C. Studies show that apples also have cancer- and virus-fighting agents and can work as an anti-inflammatory. The boron in apples boosts blood levels of estrogen and other compounds to prevent calcium loss in bones.
Artichokes	Are full of fiber, which is known to combat Type-2 diabetes – the fourth leading cause of death by disease in the United States.
Bananas	Are rich in potassium, a mineral that regulates heartbeat and blood pressure and can protect the elderly from strokes. Bananas are also commonly recommended to stabilize irritable intestines, thus alleviating both constipation and diarrhea.
Beets	Are a great source of the cancer-fighting antioxidant betacyanin, which gives them their vibrant color. Fresh beets are full of folic acid and vitamin B, which may protect against heart disease and colon cancer.
Blueberries	Contain tannic acid, which many scientists believe neutralizes free radicals and acts as a potent virus killer. Others claim it helps cure diarrhea and fights off bladder and urinary tract infections.
Broccoli	Is one of the first vegetables found to have anti-cancer properties and is still considered among the most potent. The sulforaphane in broccoli is said to stimulate the body to produce an enzyme that kills potential carcinogens.
Eggplant	Contains two compounds used to stop convulsions: scopoletin and scoparone. It is being investigated for its potential use in the treatment of epilepsy. Studies show this vegetable also binds up cholesterol in the intestines so that it isn’t absorbed into the bloodstream where it can clog arteries.
Grapes	Possess high levels of caffeic acid, which has been found to prevent cancer in animals, and flavonoids, which may prevent blood clots. Several dietary surveys have found that snacking on grapes lowers the incidence of gum disease.
Oranges, lemons, and limes	Have vitamin C, bioflavonoids, and an abundance of limonene. These help the body fight cancers of the lungs, cervix, stomach, and esophagus by reducing cholesterol and boosting enzymes thought to break down carcinogens and stimulate cancer-killing immune cells.
Pineapples	Are high in the mineral manganese, which research suggests helps build strong bones and prevent osteoporosis. A single cup of pineapple juice provides 50 percent of the recommended daily amount of vitamin C; fresh pineapple contains bromelain, the enzyme that assists digestion by breaking down protein.

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