Friday, January 28, 2011

Top 5 Power Foods of the Week: Slow Aging, Prevent Disease, and Boost Immunity




Almonds- Eating about 48 almonds a day gives you approximately 50 percent of the daily amount of magnesium needed in your diet. Magnesium is very important for the health of your heart. Studies have proven that eating at least 2-ounces of almonds daily have significantly lowered total cholesterol levels, and several other factors that contribute to heart disease as well.  Also, almonds are high in vitamin E, fiber, and monounsaturated fats.


Apples- Apples are high in fiber and antioxidants. Not only are they good for colon health, but also for lowering total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. This delicious fruit contain catechins, potent cancer-preventative substances. They are also good for preventing lung cancer; as well as liver and prostate abnormalities.




Salmon- Fatty acids are what our brain uses to create the cells that help us to process thoughts and to feel.  Salmon is one of the healthiest foods you can eat. Wild Salmon is one of the best sources of Omega-3 essential fatty acids. It is low in saturated fat, and it has one of the lowest amounts of contaminants among all seafood.

Other health properties of wild salmon are:

• Wild Salmon improves your brain matter.
• Wild Salmon improves your mood.
• Wild Salmon improves your synaptic connections.
• Wild Salmon improves your arteries.
• Wild Salmon reduces your chances of stroke, Dementia, and Alzheimer’s.


Avocados- This fruit, sometimes referred to as nature’s butter, provides fiber, folic acid, vitamin E, and potassium.  But more than anything, avocados are known to lower total cholesterol levels because they are the number-one fruit source of beta-sitosterol.  In addition, avocados have higher levels of the potent antioxidant lutein, which protects our eyes from cataracts and age-related muscular degeneration.


Blueberries- Blueberries help the brain to produce dopamine. Dopamine is essential for coordination, memory, and the feeling of well-being. However, blueberries are most known for their high levels of immunity boosting antioxidants. According to cbsmoneywatch.com,   Researchers recently found that blueberries prevented the growth of breast cancer cells in test tubes.

This week, try to consume as much of these Top 5 Power Foods as possible. Find creative ways to incorporate them in your daily diet by making smoothies with blueberries and fresh apples.

Have Mexican night and make guacamole with your avocados.

Or, try Almond Crusted Salmon as an entrée along with your favorite side dishes.

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