Healthy-foods-2

What does eating healthy mean to you? Some will see a delicious and varied selection of food that they eat on a regular basis. Other people, though see a bowl of lettuce and sadness. If you are one of those that thinks eating healthy means giving up a lot of food, then we have some wonderful news for you. There is an almost limitless list of healthy foods with all kinds of benefits that you can enjoy. Many of these benefits are not just simply losing weight or having more energy. Some foods are proven to aid with things such as headaches, fatigue, and even joint issues. Did you know dark chocolate may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease? Some of these healing foods are the ones you eat on a daily basis already.

Just what are these healing foods?

Bananas: You have probably heard that bananas are high in potassium, but what does that actually do for you? It can help lower and maintain your blood pressure, which leads to a long list of benefits. Bananas also contain tryptophan, which can help to preserve your memory.

Salmon: A good source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which have a wide range of health benefits. The major ones being a reduced risk of depression, heart disease, and cancer. It also has niacin, which can help combat alzheimer’s and memory loss.

Garlic: A great tasting addition to almost any meal, garlic is a powerful disease fighting food. It can help fight against bacteria, including E. Coli. Alicen in the garlic is also a strong anti-inflammatory and can help reduce cholesterol levels. Just take care not to overcook it, or it may lose a large portion of it’s health benefits.

Beans: Beans in general are healthy additions to any dinner plate. Eating a serving at least 4 times a week can lower the risk of heart disease by 22 percent. Beans are great antioxidants, especially black beans.

Lemons: Lemons come packed with Vitamin C, and can help inhibit the growth of cancer cells. It is recommended to enjoy your green tea with a slice of lemon in it. The lemon can increase the body’s ability to absorb the antioxidants of the tea by 80%.

Tea: Tea is a great natural drink, that is not only loaded with antioxidants but can also help reduce the chances of cancer, encourage weight loss, and increase mental alertness. Although the amount of antioxidants varies with the tea, they all come with some level of them, along with their own health benefits. Tea has been considered a healthy part of any diet in the east for thousands of years, and today is recommended around the world.

Coconut Water: You may have noticed the new health trend of people drinking coconut water. They say it is just as hydrating as sport drinks and a lot healthier. The studies show that there is quite a bit of truth to the hype. Coconut water is low in sodium and high in potassium, making for a great way to rehydrate when facing the heat. It is recommended to enjoy coconut water with a banana or some raisins to get the full range of nutrients.

Dark Chocolate: Remember how we said dark chocolate can lower the chances of cardiovascular disease? It also has other benefits. It can improve blood flow and lower blood pressure, and is a good source of antioxidants. The only downside is it does come with sugar and calories, so for the health benefits it should be eaten with moderation. At least you can still add dark chocolate to your healthy food list.

Next time you are at the supermarket, look for these foods, and find ways to incorporate them more into your normal meal plans. With a little research, you can find an even wider variety than this to build a healthy meal plan. For more tips, or to increase your healthy living through massage or acupuncture, contact Dr. Beth today. A licensed Daytona Beach massage therapist , Dr. Beth can help you start living a better and healthier life.