Healthy Food #1: Broccoli
Why It's Healthy:— One medium stalk of broccoli contains more than 100 percent of your daily vitamin K requirement and almost 200 percent of your recommended daily dose of vitamin C — two essential bone-building nutrients.
— The same serving also helps stave off numerous cancers.
Quick Tip:
Zap it! Preserve up to 90 percent of broccoli's vitamin C by microwaving. (Steaming or boiling holds on to just 66 percent of the nutrient.)
Healthy Food #2 : Walnuts
Why They're Healthy:— Contain the most omega-3 fatty acids, which may help reduce cholesterol, of all nuts.
— Omega-3s have been shown to improve mood and fight cancer; they may protect against sun damage, too (but don't skip the SPF!).
Quick Tip:
Eat a few for dessert: The antioxidant melatonin, found in walnuts, helps to regulate sleep.
Healthy Food #3: Garlic
Why It's Healthy:— 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.
Quick Tip:
Crushed fresh garlic releases the most allicin. Just don't overcook; garlic exposed to high heat for more than 10 minutes loses important nutrients.
Healthy Food #4: Spinach
Why It's Healthy:— Spinach contains lutein and zeaxanthin, two immune-boosting antioxidants important for eye health.
— Recent research found that among cancer-fighting fruits and veggies, spinach is one of the most effective.
Quick Tip:
Spinach is a healthy — and flavorless — addition to any smoothie. You won't taste it, Try blending 1 cup spinach, 1 cup grated carrots, 1 banana, 1 cup apple juice, and ice.
Healthy Food #5: Beans
Why They're Healthy:— Eating a serving of legumes (beans, peas, and lentils) four times a week can lower your risk of heart disease by 22 percent.
— That same habit may also reduce your risk of breast cancer.
Quick Tip:
The darker the bean, the more antioxidants it contains. One study found that black bean hulls contain 40 times the amount of antioxidants found in white bean hulls.
