Stay Away From These 6 Foods in Case You Have a Thyroid Disorder!

Located at the neck’s base, the thyroid gland is responsible for most of the metabolic processes of the body since it produces hormones. There are a number of thyroid disorders and some are not serious, but some of them can be life-threatening. Women are more prone to developing thyroid disorders, particularly after menopause or pregnancy.

Some of the most common thyroid disorders occur as a consequence of abnormal production of the hormones of the thyroid. Thyroid hormonal imbalance can cause weight gain, weight loss, restlessness or fatigue. Hyperthyroidism is when the gland produce too much hormones and hypothyroidism is when the gland does not produce enough hormones.

Thyroid problems can be uncomfortable and unpleasant, but nearly all of them can be treated. Moreover, there are certain foods which can significantly impact your weight, your energy and health in general.

You must avoid these six foods so as to stop a thyroid problem from getting worse:

1. Sugar

Hypothyroidism can slow down the metabolism and for this reason people who suffer from this can easily gain weight. People with hypothyroidism need to stay away from foods with high amounts of sugar. These foods have almost no nutrients but they are packed with calories.

2. Fatty/Fried Foods

It has been proven that fats can disrupt the ability of the body to absorb medicines for thyroid hormones and it can also prevent the thyroid from producing hormones. In case you are afflicted with a thyroid disorder, you should avoid fatty and fried foods which are heavily processed and you should avoid consuming margarine, mayonnaise and butter as well, since they are high in fats.

3. Coffee

High amounts of caffeine negatively affects the adrenal glands, and this can cause fatigue and other thyroid issues. If you are addicted to coffee, reduce it a bit and make sure not to drink coffee one hour at the minimum after you have taken the thyroid hormone replacement medication.

4. Cruciferous Vegetables

Eating certain vegetables can impede the production of the thyroid hormones. Such vegetables are cruciferous vegetables like cabbage and broccoli. They can block the ability of the thyroid to absorb iodine, which is critical for proper function of the thyroid. In case you are afflicted with a thyroid disorder, limit the consumption of turnips, kale, cauliflower, cabbage, and broccoli.

5. Soy

Soy can prevent the thyroid hormone absorption in people with hyperthyroidism. In case you have problems with your thyroid, avoid soy. Processed soy forms like soy bars, supplements, soy milk, powders and shakes can worsen things. If it is not possible for you to eliminate soy from your diet, use fermented forms like tempeh and make sure to consume small quantities.

6. Gluten

Gliadin is a protein which is found in gluten and which is foreign to the body. The thyroid gland has a similar protein and once the gluten is consumed, then the immune system attacks both the enzyme and the protein. It is quite difficult to recognize gluten intolerance with hypothyroidism since the symptoms such as digestive problems, abdominal pain and bloating usually overlap. Foods which are processed from rye, barley, wheat and other grains contain gluten.

source: http://www.healthyfoodplace.com

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10 Most Toxic And Dangerous Foods That Cause Cancer Which Should Never “Get In Your Mouth”

Although these foods are generally considered to be safe for us and our body, we regret to inform you that it is untrue.

They are highly processed and our body cannot recognize them. A lot of studies have proved that the consumption of these foods has a negative effect on our health.

1. Margarine

Margarine contains trans-fats which are not easy to digest. Also, it damages our blood vessels and increases the level of cholesterol. By consuming this artificial food, you create a toxic burden in the organism, thus affecting the liver. Therefore, avoid margarine and try to replace it with organic and natural foods.

2. Canned Soups

We generally consider them as healthy, but did you know that canned soups contain 890mg of sodium? The excessive intake of sodium increases the blood sugar, retains water, and causes stress, which in most cases results in heart attack.

3. Soda

Soda in its content has a high amount of chemicals and sugar which negatively affect the body. Also, these drinks reduce the supplements’ level in the body. The Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers, and Prevention published a study which showed that consuming 2 soft drinks weekly can double the risk of development of pancreatic cancer.

4. Fast Food

The process of preparing fast foods is detrimental, so fast foods are definitely number 1 on the list of the unhealthiest foods worldwide since they are full of processed meat, saturated fats, and sodium.

5. Potato Crisps

Acrylamide is a carcinogenic substance which is created during the processing of foods at extremely high temperatures. Moreover, it is the main cause of cancer in the U.S. according to the Dale Hattis, a professor at the Clark University.
Potato crisps contain high amounts of sodium due to the fact that they contain too much salt in their content, and as we said before, the intake of sodium can increase the level of cholesterol and cause hypertension, which potentially leads to heart attacks and stroke.

6. Donuts

Donuts are mainly made of white flour and sugar and contain trans-fats which can affect the shape of your body, and increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

7. Sugar

Sugar is considered as the main reason for diabetes and obesity. Also, it is related to numerous health issues, such as problems with the pancreas, liver, and digestive system. The consumption of sugar has negative effects on the brain, and can destroy the nervous system by 50%.

8. Processed meat

Being rich in nitrates and sodium, processed meats are harmful to the health. As found by the American Institute for Cancer Research, their consumption is linked to an increased cancer risk.
Furthermore, as soon as they are absorbed, the nitrates are converted into nitrites and thus lead to the formation of a cancer-causing chemical, nitrosamine.

9. White Flour

Flour has the same negative effects on the body as sugar, greatly affecting the pancreas. It can cause obesity and imbalanced levels of insulin. It contains no nutrients, as all the fibers and nutrients of wheat which are beneficial for the body are lost during the processing.

10. Milk

Patrick Holford, a famous nutritionist, believes that the ability of the body to digest lactose, the main ingredient in milk, is reduced with age. Milk is often the main cause of inflammation, bloating, acidic environment in the body, and food intolerance.

source: http://www.healthyfoodplace.com/10-toxic-dangerous-foods-cause-cancer-never-get-mouth/

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7 Herbs and Foods for Lowering Blood Glucose Naturally

A number of people are either diabetic or pre-diabetic. They need to control their blood sugar level. And people are learning that nature has the answers, and in this case the answer lies in herbs and spices. Here are 7 amazing herbs and foods for lowering blood glucose naturally and much more.

1. Bitter Melon

This Asian food lowers blood glucose and also lowers glucose in all the tissues of the body. Bitter melon promotes proper carbohydrate digestion. It can also reverse insulin resistants, and prevent complications that occur with uncontrolled diabetes.

2. Cinnamon

Cinnamon can lower blood glucose by almost 30%. At the same time it can lower LDL cholesterol by almost 28%, and lower triglycerides by up to 30%.

3. Fenugreek

Fenugreek helps the insulin producing cells of the pancreas to produce more insulin thus lowering blood sugar. At the same time Fenugreek lowers cholesterol and helps protect the liver from the damage from alcohol. It detoxes the liver too.

4. Garlic and Onions

Though mild in action, garlic and onions do lower blood glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides too. These foods contain alliin which is a sulfide compound that lowers blood glucose and helps insulin to be used for effectively.

5. Ginseng

his amazing herb lowers blood glucose by limiting the tri-carboxylic acid cycle thus increasing insulin output. It also keeps insulin producing cells alive and thriving. At the same time Ginseng promotes a healing effect to the lining of all arteries in the body thus helping to prevent heart attacks.

6. Neem

Taking neem leaf extracts can lower the need for insulin injections by up to 50%. It also lowers blood glucose in general. Neem also increases circulation throughout the body thus helping to reduce complications associated with diabetes.

7. Shilajit

This mineral salt from India is sometimes called the “Destroyer of Diabetes.” It contains lots of minerals, peptides, fulvic acid, dibenzo-alpha-pyrones, and other lipids. Studies show while taking Shilajit, blood glucose drops significantly and bad cholesterol goes down, plus good cholesterol increases.

source: http://www.healthyfoodplace.com

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16 Foods that Force Cancer Cell Death, Remove Toxins and Relentlessly Hunt Free Radicals

Research over the past decade has shown without a doubt, that what you eat has a profound effect on your overall health. The simple truth is that an anti-cancer diet doesn’t look that different from the healthy foods you should be eating anyway. That means plenty of organic fruits and vegetables, as well as lean meat or fish.

To compile a list of cancer fighting foods would require a list of most fruits, vegetables, protein and herbs. Some foods will fight inflammation which fuels cancer growth. Other foods force cancer cell death, while other foods help the body to remove toxins and protect against free radical damage. Healthy organic foods will attack any illness on some level.

Cancer Fighting Foods

So What is on The List of Cancer Fighting Foods?
Pretty much the exact opposite of the Standard American Diet (SAD). Organic foods that include colorful vegetables, fruits, beans, healthy fats, garlic, herbs, spices and lean proteins. While this is not a complete list, let’s take a look at a few highlights.

1. Beans

Beans offer numerous phytochemicals along with fiber. Phytochemicals such as saponins have the ability to inhibit cancer cell reproduction, protease inhibitors slow the division of cancer cells, and phytic acid which also slows the progression of tumors are all components of beans. Beans contain Folate a B vitamin that reduces the risk of pancreatic cancer.

2. Black Seed/Oil

Also known as black cumin, black cumin seed, or black seed. There are currently 656 peer reviewed studies on this amazing food. This seed has the ability to stabilize and strengthen the immune system. Dr. Hwyda Arafar M.D., PhD used black cumin in the treatment of pancreatic cancer patients with astounding results of 80% cell death.

3. Carrots

Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, an antioxidant that scientists believe protects cell membranes from toxin damage and slow the growth of cancer cells. Because they supply antioxidants that can battle HPV. Carrots may also prove to be beneficial in the treatment of leukemia.

4. Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables such as bok choy, broccoli, cabbage, kale, collards and cauliflower contain sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinols (I3Cs). These are two potent cancer fighters. They help to detoxify the body and help precancerous cells from developing into malignant tumors. In studies conducted by the World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer, broccoli and other cruciferous veggies were most protective against mouth, esophagus and stomach cancers. You may also consider eating broccoli sprouts, for an even greater nutritional boost.

5. Garlic

The same sulfur compounds that give garlic its strong odor can stop cancer causing substances from forming in your body, speed up DNA repair and kill cancer cells. Don’t forget to include other foods from the alliaceous group; onions, leeks, shallots and chives. The sulfur in this group of foods facilitate the death of prostate, colon, breast and lung cancer cells.

6. Ginger

Ginger has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and can slow cancer growth. The spicy root is also helpful for relieving nausea, migraines, sore muscles and arthritis. The anti-inflammatory power of ginger kills ovarian cancer cells in a test tube faster than chemo, according to a study done at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center.

7. Grapes and Resveratrol

Research shows that resveratrol offers numerous health benefits including, reducing inflammation, and preventing oxidation of LDL cholesterol. It is also helps to limit the spread of cancer cells and triggers cancer cell death. If you are looking to increase your resveratrol intake consider consuming grapes, blueberries, cranberries and pomegranate each of which offer a wide range of antioxidants.

8. Green Tea

Rich in polyphenols and catechins, in particular EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate). EGCG is tough on cancer cells. This potent antioxidant helps detoxify the liver and retards cancer growth. Lab studies have found that catechins in tea can shrink tumors and reduce tumor cell growth.

9. Pomegranate

This fruit offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Studies show this fruit can significantly inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells. If buying juice, be sure to read labels as bottled juice usually contains very high amounts of sugar.

10. Sea Vegetables

Kelp, Kombu, Hijiki, Nori and Arame are potent mineral and vitamin rich foods that can easily be added to soups, salads, rice or noodle dishes. Sea vegetables offer a host of nutritional and healing benefits. Kelp helps remove radioactive particles and heavy metals from the body. Kombu helps lower blood pressure and is abundant in iodine, carotenes, B, C, D and E vitamins, it is also a high protein seaweed that also contains calcium, magnesium, potassium, silica, iron, and zinc. Hijiki boosts natural killer T-cells for disease protection. Nori is rich in all the carotenes, calcium, iron, iodine and phosphorous. Arame is one of the richest sources of iodine. Herbalists use Arame to help reduce breast and uterine fibroids. Dried seaweeds can also be powdered to use in detox baths.

11. Spinach

This versatile green food contains lutein and zeaxanthin. These carotenoids remove unstable molecules and free radicals from your body. They are also found in other dark green leafy vegetables. An NIH/AARP study of more than 490,000 people found that individuals who ate more spinach were less likely to develop esophageal cancer. Some studies suggest the carotenoids in spinach and other foods reduce the risk of ovarian, endometrial, lung, and colorectal cancer, too.

12. Strawberries

This berry is rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C and ellagic acid. Ellagic acid has anti-cancer properties that supercharges enzymes to slow the growth of tumors. All berries contain powerful antioxidants, which means they naturally halt the process in the body that creates free radicals that damage your cells. Additional berries rich in flavonoids such as raspberries, blueberries, blackberries and cranberries are also powerful antioxidants and considered a protective food. Fruits and berries have the potential to decrease risks of lung, mouth, stomach and esophagus cancer.

13. Tomatoes

Lycopene is a highly concentrated antioxidant in tomatoes. Numerous studies suggest that a diet rich in lycopene is linked to a lower risk of prostate cancer. In lab tests lycopene has stopped other types of cancer cells from growing including breast, lung and endometrial. Other foods that contain lycopene include watermelon, pink grapefruit and red bell peppers While regular consumption of tomatoes and peppers are associated with lower risks of several cancers, especially prostate cancer, it has a downside, which is solanine. If you have any inflammation in your body, consuming foods with solanine is highly likely to worsen and aggravate the situation.

14. Turmeric

Curcumin is one of the most powerful antioxidants found in turmeric and has numerous health benefits. It has been studied extensively for its ability to kill numerous cancer lines. James A. Duke, an ethnobotanist published comprehensive summaries of 700 turmeric studies.

15. Vitamin D

Although this isn’t a food, there are too many studies that show this vitamin is instrumental in reducing the risk of breast and colon cancer, as well as improving the survival rate of lung cancer.
“The food you eat can be either the safest and most powerful form of medicine or the slowest form of poison.” Ann Wigmore


16. Figs

Research shows that figs are high in antioxidants and high in fruit fibers which help to inhibit cancer cells, specifically post-menopausal breast cancer. Dried or fresh figs have also been used to help treat stomach cancer.

They also provide plenty of nutrients such as magnesium, manganese, calcium, copper, potassium, vitamin K, and vitamin B6 which build up the body’s natural ability to fight diseases.

“The food you eat can be either the safest and most powerful form of medicine or the slowest form of poison.” Ann Wigmore

As with any changes in diet or protocol, please discuss with your practitioner first.

source: http://theheartysoul.com/

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This is What Happens to Your Brain When You Eat Fermented Food!

If you’re a pickle connoisseur, you’re going to love this. A study published in the August 2015 issue of Psychiatry Research concluded that eating fermented foods such as pickles, sauerkraut and yogurt, can ease social anxiety and neuroticism.

Psychologists have traditionally focused on the mind when trying to help people cope with mental health issues, but new research suggests that the stomach may also play a role in mental health. Scientists at the College of William and Mary teamed up with the University of Maryland to have more than 700 students fill out detailed questionnaires on their personality traits, diet and level of social anxiety. The researchers found that young adults who eat more fermented foods have fewer social anxiety symptoms.

Fermented Food for Brain
Matthew Hilimire, an assistant professor in the Department of Psychology offered an explanation, “It is likely that the probiotics in the fermented foods are favorably changing the environment in the gut, and changes in the gut in turn influence social anxiety,” he said. “I think that it is absolutely fascinating that the microorganisms in your gut can influence your mind.”


The study also concluded that students who ate a diet full of fruits and vegetables and exercised regularly had reduced anxiety symptoms, but that isn’t quite new information. Most of us are aware that a healthy diet and regular exercise can keep our bodies and minds healthy and functioning properly. The probiotic result came as somewhat of a surprise to many. There is a growing number of studies that show that the gut microbiome influences the brain, including emotions and perceptions.
The study reads, “The fermented foods so often included in traditional dietary practices have the potential to influence brain health by virtue of the microbial action that has been applied to the food or beverage, and by the ways in which the fermented food or beverage directly influences our own microbiota. This could manifest, behaviorally…”

The good bacteria in fermented foods may increase levels of a chemical in the brain called GABA that controls anxiety. GABA is a neurotransmitter that is mimicked by many anti-anxiety medications. In other words, eating a few pickles may be the equivalent to popping a pill to control anxiety.

If you suffer from anxiety, and you’re thinking “no way,” it’s worth noting that the microbial ecosystem in human bodies vary from one individual to the next, so it won’t work exactly the same way in everyone. Studies are still being done to figure out the exact relationship between fermented food and anxiety. Researchers are interested in creating an experimental version of the study to specifically look at using fermented foods versus probiotic supplements to target social anxiety.

Hilimire noted, “Assuming similar findings in the experimental follow-up, what it would suggest is that you could augment more traditional therapies (like medications, psychotherapy or a combination of the two) with fermented foods — dietary changes — and exercise as well.”

source: https://www.davidwolfe.com/

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10 Foods That Unclog Arteries Naturally And Protect Against Heart Attack

Nature has created numerous natural foods that can help us maintain our good health, detox it and prevent numerous diseases. Thus, it also contains foods which can help you unclog your arteries and promote heart health!

These foods are the following:

Green Tea

This tea is rich in catechins, which impede the cholesterol absorption during digestion. Therefore, the consumption of 1-2 cups of green tea will prevent the blockage of arteries and enhance the blood-lipid levels. It will also stimulate your metabolism, promote heart health and help you lose excess weight.

Pomegranate

Pomegranate includes phytochemicals which have antioxidant properties and prevent damage of the lining of arteries.  Its juice triggers the production of nitric oxide, which keeps the arteries open and supports the blood flow!

Turmeric

Turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, and it alleviates inflammation, which is the greatest cause of arteriosclerosis — the hardening of the arteries.

Therefore, its introduction in your regular diet will reduce the risk of blood clotting and it will lower the damage to arterial walls.

Avocados

You can add some avocado to your burgers and sandwiches, instead of mayo. According to researchers, it daily use will improve your blood cholesterol, as it will reduce LDL, and elevate HDL cholesterol levels.

The latter helps the arteries to prevent obstructions.

Broccoli

Broccoli is high in vitamin K, which prevents calcium from damaging the arteries, and it also includes fiber, which reduces blood pressure and cholesterol.

Asparagus

This natural artery-clearing food will promote cardiovascular health as it prevents blood clots and reduces blood pressure. It is high in minerals and fiber, and vitamin C, B2, K, B1, and E.

Spirulina

Spirulina is a blue-green algae which effectively regulates blood’s lipid levels, and is rich in proteins which include all essential amino acids for an optimal health. It stabilizes the blood pressure and relaxes the artery walls, and at the same time, balances the fat levels in the blood.

Cranberries

Cranberries are high in antioxidants, which lower the LDL and elevate HDL cholesterol levels. The daily consumption of the juice of cranberries will lower the risk of heart disease by 40%!

Persimmon

Persimmons are abundant in antioxidants and polyphenols, which lower LDL and triglycerides. They are also high in fiber, which helps the regulation of blood pressure and maintains the arteries clean.

Cinnamon

This delicious spice can help to reduce cholesterol levels while clearing out plaque and preventing further build-up. Cinnamon is full of antioxidants which improve cardiovascular health by protecting blood from oxidation.

Sprinkle some in your coffee, on your toast, or on just about any other food to spice it up a little and reap the benefits!

source: http://supertastyrecipes.com

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20 Foods That Will Clean Your Arteries Naturally and Protect You From Heart Attacks

It is a fact that heart disease is a number one killer. One of the main causes for heart attack and stroke are clogged arteries which can interrupt the blood flow throughout the entire body.

There are many factors which can increase the risk of a heart attack including lack of movement, stress, and unhealthy diet. However, some simple changes in your diet can help you to protect yourself, and reduce the risk of heart disease.

So, we present you some drinks and foods which can help you to keep your arteries free of blockage:

1. Salmon
Salmon is considered as the most beneficial food for your heart health. It contains many healthy fatty acids which are naturally present in the fish. They have the ability to reduce and prevent cholesterol, inflammation and triglyceride levels.
Tuna, mackerel, and herring are some other healthy fish which you need to include in your diet. Make sure always to buy organic fish.

2. Orange juice
Pure orange juice has many antioxidants which can support healthy blood vessels. Moreover, it can help you to reduce high blood pressure.

By drinking 2 glasses of fresh orange juice on a daily basis, you will get the recommended daily dosage of vitamin C, thus providing your body with vitamins and minerals that will have a positive effect on your health.

3. Coffee
Many studies proved that drinking 2-4 cups of coffee a day will reduce the risk of heart attack by 20%. However, you should be aware of the fact that the excessive consumption of coffee can be harmful to your stomach.

4. Nuts
They contain many healthy fats including omega-3 fatty acids and unsaturated fats. They are extremely effective for your cholesterol levels, and they have the ability to boost your memory and joints. One handful of almonds and walnuts a day and you will see its benefits!

5. Persimmon fruit
It has a rich content of fiber and healthy sterols which can reduce the cholesterol levels. Its sweet taste is the reason why they are called “divine fruits”. You can add this fruit to your salads or cereal.

6. Turmeric
Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric can provide numerous benefits. It will help you to reduce tissue inflammation and prevent overactive fat storage. You can use turmeric as addition to different meals, or consume it as a tea.

7. Green tea
It has potent calming and energizing properties. This is because green tea contains catechin, a powerful antioxidant which can support the metabolism and reduce the absorption of cholesterol. In order to get its maximum benefits, make sure to drink 1-2 cups of green tea a day.

8. Cheese
The moderate consumption of cheese can help you to reduce the high cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

9. Watermelon
This refreshing fruit will promote the production of nitric oxide and support healthy blood vessels. Make sure to incorporate this amazing fruit in your diet, and you will see its benefits!

10. Whole grain
It contains a lot of fiber which can reduce cholesterol and prevent its accumulation in the arteries. Foods which are a rich source of whole grain are oats, whole grain bread, and brown rice. They will help you to break down the already buildup cholesterol.

11. Cranberries
Cranberries are a rich source of potassium. The regular consumption of cranberry juice can help you to reduce the bad cholesterol, and increase the healthy one. Drinking 2 glasses a day will reduce the risk of heart attack by 40%.

12. Seaweed
Seaweed has a rich content of minerals, vitamins, proteins, carotenoids, and antioxidants. The regular consumption of it can help you to regulate the blood pressure and lower the cholesterol levels by 5%.

13. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is mostly used as an addition in baked goods and in tea. It can prevent the buildup in the arteries, thus fighting the high cholesterol. 1 teaspoon of cinnamon a day will provide a lot of benefits for your health.

14. Pomegranate
This exotic fruit contains a lot of phytochemicals which can naturally promote nitric oxide production, thus improving your circulation. Pomegranate can be used as a great addition to your salads.

15. Spinach
Spinach is a rich source of folic acid and potassium, which have the ability to reduce high blood pressure, support muscle tissues, and reduce the risk of heart attacks as well.

16. Broccoli
It is abundant with vitamin K. It has the ability to reduce blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. It can be eaten boiled, raw, as a part of a big meal, or as a snack.

17. Olive oil
Consuming high-quality olive oil is the secret to good health! If you consume cold-pressed olive oil you will get healthy fats and reduce the cholesterol levels. Olive oil has the ability to reduce the risk of a heart attack by 41%.

18. Asparagus
Asparagus can prevent clogging of veins, inflammation and reduce high cholesterol levels. You can eat it as a main dish, in a soup, or as a side to noodles or potatoes.

19. Blueberries
Blueberries are a great source of potassium. If you drink cranberry juice, you can raise healthy cholesterol levels and low dangerous. Consumption of 2 glasses per day has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attack by up to 40%.

20. Avocado
Avocado is known for its health benefits. It contains fats which can promote a healthy balance between the bad and good cholesterol. You can eat it on bread, with eggs, or add it to salads.

source: http://besthealthpage.com/

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Why Is It Healthy To Eat 1 Avocado A Day?

This fruit is believed to have originated in Puebla, Mexico.

The oldest evidence of avocado was found in a cave in Puebla, Mexico and dates back to around 10,000 B.C.

Native to Mexico and Central America, the avocado is classified in the same family as camphor and cinnamon.

It is botanically a large berry that grows on a tree and can reach up to 6 feet tall.

Like a banana, the avocado ripens 1-2 weeks after being picked.

Avocado is often considered as the healthiest food due to its impressive nutritional value.

It contains these vitamins and minerals:

• Vitamin B1
• Vitamin B2
• Vitamin B3
• Vitamin B5
• Vitamin B6
• Vitamin B9
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin K
• Calcium
• Iron
• Magnesium
• Manganese
• Phosphorus
• Sodium
• Zinc

Why is it healthy to eat 1 avocado a day?

• Avocadoes contain more potassium than bananas – 14% and bananas 10%.
• They contain folate for your heart’s health. Avocadoes have 23% of folate which lowers the incidences of heart disease. Vitamin E, mono-saturated fats and glutathione are also good for the heart. Folate can lower the risks of having a stroke.
• Folate is also essential in the prevention of birth defects such as spina bifida and neural tube defect.
• Eating avocados helps our body absorb 5 times the amount of carotenoids (lycopene and beta carotene).
• Eye Heath – Avocados contain more carotenoid lutein than any other fruit, protecting against muscular degeneration and cataracts.
• Avocados are high in beta-sitosterol and lower the bad cholesterol by 22%, but raise the good by 11% and also lower the blood triglycerides by 20%.
• Some studies show that high oleic acid prevents breast cancer, inhibits tumor growth in prostate cancer and seeks out precancerous and oral cancer cells and destroys them.
• Avocados are high in fiber and they will help you feel fuller longer, potentially helping you with weight loss. High fiber helps your metabolic health and steadies your blood sugar.
• Avocado extract together with soybean oil can reduce the symptoms of arthritis.
• Polyphenols and flavonoids within avocados have some anti-inflammatory properties.
• Avocados clean your intestines and relieve your bad breath.
• Avocado oil nourishes your skin greatly and is a beneficial treatment for psoriasis and other skin irritations.
• It contains an antioxidant called glutathione that prevents heart disease, cancer and slows the signs of aging.
• Glutathione also fights free radicals.

Our blood and our cells carry the oxygen all throughout our bodies. When we’re exposed to some environmental pollutants, these toxins change that oxygen in our mitochondria into free radicals destroying our cells and DNA.
This damage creates various chronic illnesses. Researchers from the Federation of American Society for Experimental Biology have found that glutathione in avocados can be absorbed into our mitochondria and then neutralize the free radicals.

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Top 10 Superfoods to Lower High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a major risk factor for both heart attacks and strokes. A blood pressure reading of 140/90 mm Hg or above is considered high blood pressure. In most cases, it does not cause any noticeable symptoms and is thus called the “silent killer”.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hypertension affects one in three adults in the United States.

Many factors contribute to high blood pressure, including age, genetics, stress, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, alcohol consumption, smoking, and excess salt intake.

By managing and controlling the risk factor, you can keep your blood pressure in check. Also, eat a healthy diet rich in several antioxidant-rich superfoods and low in saturated fats to help control the problem.

In addition, be sure to take your blood pressure medication as directed by your doctor and regularly monitor your blood pressure.

Here are the top 10 superfoods to lower high blood pressure.

1. Lemons

Lemon, a popular citrus fruit, can help regulate high BP. Its antioxidant vitamin C helps neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals.

This in turn helps lower high blood pressure, reduces high cholesterol and improves overall heart health. In addition, lemons are high in potassium that helps lower blood pressure by reducing the effects of sodium.

According to a 2014 study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, regular lemon ingestion and walking have systolic blood pressure-lowering effects.

Drink a cup of warm water with the juice from ½ lemon added to it each morning on an empty stomach. For best results, do not add salt or sugar.

2. Garlic

Garlic offers blood pressure lowering benefits. It helps relax blood vessels by stimulating the production of nitric oxide, which in turn lowers blood pressure, especially systolic blood pressure.

A 2008 study published in the journal BMC Cardiovascular Disorders suggests that garlic preparations are superior to placebo in reducing blood pressure in individuals with hypertension.

Garlic can even help improve blood circulation, lower cholesterol and prevent heart disease.

Eat 2 – 3 raw garlic cloves daily on an empty stomach. You can also take garlic supplements, but only after consulting your doctor.

3. Bananas

Eat 1- 2 bananas a day to lower blood pressure. The high potassium content of banana helps to lessen the effect of sodium, which in turn regulates blood pressure. In fact, regular intake of potassium-rich foods can reduce your risk of stroke and prevent heart disease.

According to a 2005 study, published in American Heart Association’s journal Hypertension, increased intake of foods high in potassium has the same effect on blood pressure as potassium chloride, which helps to lower blood pressure.

Slice a banana into your breakfast cereal or oatmeal, or take one to work every day for a quick, easy, and inexpensive snack.

4. Olive Oil (Extra Virgin)

Extra-virgin olive oil contains antioxidants called ‘polyphenols’, which help in reducing high blood pressure and even protect LDL (“bad”) cholesterol from oxidation. In addition, olive oil contains monounsaturated fatty acids that help improve heart health.

According to a 2000 study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, use of extra-virgin olive oil can lower the daily antihypertensive drug dosage requirement.

Eat a few tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil a day. Use it in healthy salad dressings or dips. You can use it for cooking or baking as well.

5. Tomatoes

Tomatoes contain lycopene and other carotenoids with antioxidant effects that help fight free radicals, lower the risk of heart disease, and reduce high blood pressure. In a 2011 study published in the journal Maturitas lycopene showed a significant systolic blood pressure reducing effect.

Also, a 2006 study published in the American Heart Journal, found that regular consumption of 250mg of tomato extract helped decrease both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Tomatoes are also rich in potassium that helps lower blood pressure and flushes sodium from your body.

Eat one cup of fresh tomatoes daily. You can add them in salads and sandwiches, as well as use them for making sauces and soups. Avoid eating canned tomatoes.

6. Blueberries

Blueberries are rich in flavonoids called anthocyanins that help prevent hypertension. In addition, the antioxidants in these berries help improve and maintain artery flexibility and thus help control blood pressure.

According to a 2011 study published in the journal American Society for Nutrition, anthocyanins help in controlling as well as preventing hypertension in adults.

Blueberries are easy to add to your diet. Add them to your cereal or smoothie every morning. You can even enjoy frozen blueberries as a quick and healthful dessert.

7. Beets

According to a 2010 study by researchers at the Queen Mary University of London, the nitrate content of beetroot juice helps in lowering blood pressure.

The nitrates in beetroot are converted into nitrites and then into a gas called nitric oxide, which helps widen the arteries and lower blood pressure. It can even reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.

Drink a glass of beet juice daily to regulate your blood pressure. You can even include beets in your salad or soup.

8. Spinach

The folate, nitrate, potassium, magnesium and antioxidants in spinach help lower high blood pressure.

A 2013 study published in the journal of the Nitric Oxide Society suggests that nitrate-rich vegetables like spinach can lower systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure. They can even improve cardiovascular health in healthy men and women.

Include spinach in your diet in salads, soups and smoothies. You can even cook spinach leaves lightly and eat as a side dish.

9. Celery

Celery contains a phytochemical called 3-N-butylphthalide that relaxes the tissues of the artery walls to increase blood flow and reduce blood pressure. In addition, the magnesium and potassium content of celery help regulate your blood pressure.

According to a 2013 study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, celery seed extracts have antihypertensive properties that can help in chronic treatment of elevated BP.

To enjoy this health benefit of celery, add it to your salad or soup. You can eat four celery stalks daily.

10. Potatoes

Potatoes are rich in phytochemicals that can help reduce blood pressure. In addition, they contain potassium and magnesium, two minerals that fight hypertension.

According to a 2011 study by researchers at the Department of Chemistry at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania, potatoes, especially purple potatoes help reduce blood pressure in people with obesity and hypertension. It can reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Eat baked or boiled potatoes, especially purple ones, without adding butter, margarine or sour cream.


source: top10homeremedies

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