Health benefits of acai berries
10 Health Benefits of Acai Berries Health benefits of acai berries: The acai berries grow in the rainforests of South America and have been used there as a healing food for centuries. Now the health benefits of acai-berries are spreading all over the world, thanks to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect your body from disease and improve your overall health. To learn more about how this miracle fruit can help you maintain good health and even lose weight, read on! 1) How to Eat Them: (Health benefits of acai berries) You can consume acai berries in a variety of ways. Here are some examples: Add them to your favorite smoothie or juice. Blend 1/2 cup fresh, frozen, or dried acai-berries with 1 cup almond milk, 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed, and 1⁄4 cup fruit. Puree until smooth and drink immediately. In a bowl add 1⁄2 pint fresh strawberries, 1⁄2 pint blueberries, and 1⁄2 cup acai berry puree; top with whipped cream. 2) Weight Loss: (Health benefits of acai berries) One of their main health benefits is that they contain anthocyanins, which are antioxidant flavonoids. Antioxidants are important because they fight free radicals that have been linked to cancer, heart disease, and many other chronic conditions. The antioxidants in acai berries make them effective for protecting against degenerative illnesses like diabetes. They also help lower cholesterol levels in our bodies, which can reduce your risk for heart disease. 3) Cognitive Functioning Many anecdotal reports suggest that acai berries can improve cognitive functioning. In Brazil, where much research has been done on acai, doctors reportedly prescribe acai for people with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. There are likely many reasons for acai’s purported impact on cognitive health, including its high level of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The berries may also promote improved circulation in brain tissue. 4) Heart Health: (Health benefits of acai berries) According to a study, acai berries can help lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and raise HDL (good) cholesterol. This makes them an incredibly healthy option for heart health. Additionally, antioxidants found in acai-berries have been shown to prevent LDL oxidation, which is a precursor to clogged arteries and heart disease. 5) Anti-Inflammatory Properties One of acai berries’ best-known health benefits is their anti-inflammatory properties. A 2005 study published in Phytotherapy Research showed that participants who consumed a freeze-dried extract of acai-berries experienced reduced inflammation when exposed to pro-inflammatory compounds. Many researchers think these berries’ power is due to their high levels of anthocyanins, which are pigments found in red and purple foods. 6) Immune System Support As shown in various studies, including one performed by University of California San Diego Medical Center researchers and published in a 2001 issue of Clinical Immunology, acai berries support immune system functioning. These antioxidant-rich fruits contain anthocyanins (the same compound found in red wine) which have been linked to cancer-fighting properties. Acai-berries also boast strong amounts of vitamin E, which has been proven to help with cardiovascular health. 7) Eye Care: (Health benefits of acai berries) The health benefits of acai berries also extend to your eyes. Eating acai-berries can help strengthen your eyes, making them less susceptible to disease. For example, research shows that ingesting acai-berries lowers a person’s risk of developing cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Both are associated with serious vision problems that can lead to blindness if left untreated. 8) Skin & Nail Care Rich in antioxidants, acai berries are believed to help clear up acne and prevent premature aging. If you have problems with your nails or skin, try incorporating a few servings of acai berries into your diet each week. 9) Anti-Aging As a superfood, acai berries are known for their anti-aging properties. Ounce for ounce, acai berries contain more vitamin C than oranges. They’re also rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals, which are substances that protect against diseases like cancer and heart disease. These health benefits all contribute to a longer lifespan and an overall feeling of good health. 10) Improved Energy Levels : (Health benefits of acai berries) Of all fruits, acai berries have more antioxidant activity than any other fruit. This means that acai berries are highly effective at combatting free radicals. And, since free radicals lead to fatigue and lethargy, they can help improve energy levels.
10 Unbelievable Health Benefits of Tomatoes
Health Benefits of Tomatoes A juicy red tomato has become an icon of summer and one of the most widely consumed foods around the world. But tomatoes are not just delicious; they’re also extremely nutritious, packed with vitamins and disease-fighting antioxidants that can improve your health. Here are 10 surprising health benefits of tomatoes that you may not have heard about before, along with suggestions on how to incorporate more tomatoes into your diet! 1) Prevents Cancer In addition to helping protect against cardiovascular disease, lycopene helps prevent cancer. A study found that men who consumed high amounts of lycopene had a 31 percent lower risk of prostate cancer and a 48 percent lower risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer. Lycopene has also been shown to decrease rates of lung, stomach, esophageal, and pancreatic cancers. 2) Prevents Alzheimer’s Disease Studies have shown that consuming tomatoes can reduce a person’s risk of Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, researchers at Tufts University found that people who ate 10 or more servings of tomato products per week had 42 percent less risk for Alzheimer’s disease than those who did not eat any. The benefit is thought to be linked to the lycopene, an antioxidant compound found in tomatoes and other red fruits and vegetables. 3) Protects Against Heart Disease Research shows that those who eat foods high in lycopene, such as tomatoes, have a reduced risk of heart disease. Lycopene is an antioxidant found in tomato products and may also help protect against prostate cancer. One cup (174 grams) of raw cherry tomatoes contains 23% RDA for vitamin C. 4) Helps with Digestion When you’re looking to lose weight or just clean up your diet, start with tomatoes. A healthy dose of lycopene in red and ripe tomatoes helps lower LDL cholesterol, a leading cause of heart disease. The vitamin C found in tomatoes also improves your body’s ability to absorb iron, which can reduce anemia and boost energy levels. Lycopene is also thought to help fight cancer. 5) Keeps Skin Clear A study found that tomatoes contain a compound called lycopene, which has been proven to reduce skin cancer and may have anti-aging properties. According to New York’s Mount Sinai Hospital, Tomato consumption is associated with a reduced risk for nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC). It also prevents sunburn. 6) Reduces Inflammation in the Body Because of their antioxidant, vitamin, and mineral content, tomatoes can reduce inflammation in your body. Inflammation—the response to infection or injury that you feel as heat, swelling, pain, and redness—can occur anywhere in your body when your immune system kicks into overdrive. When there’s too much inflammation for too long or without an apparent cause (known as chronic inflammation), it can take a toll on your health by raising your risk for heart disease and cancer. 7) Fights Allergies and Other Respiratory Diseases Eating tomato and tomato-based products regularly can reduce your risk of developing allergic reactions by 60 percent. This is mostly due to lycopene, a carotenoid pigment that gives tomatoes their signature red color. Lycopene is also associated with a reduced risk of asthma, COPD, and other respiratory diseases. 8) Anti-inflammatory Properties The health benefits of tomatoes are mostly linked to their high concentration of antioxidants, which reduce inflammation throughout your body. For example, an Indian study found that just 100 grams (about 3.5 ounces) per day helped reduce symptoms associated with inflammatory diseases. The same research found that women who consumed 10 or more servings of tomato a week saw a decrease in risk for several diseases linked to inflammation, including heart disease and even cancer. 9) Great Source of Vitamin C, Folate, Vitamin K, Potassium, and Copper The health benefits of tomatoes are largely due to their high vitamin and mineral content. A single tomato provides more than 20% of your daily recommended intake for several vitamins including A, B6, C, and K. Folate is an essential nutrient that helps fight cancer by repairing DNA damage in cells; a diet rich in folate can help prevent certain types of birth defects, such as neural tube defects. Meanwhile, copper has been linked to normal thyroid function and helps reduce joint pain associated with arthritis. 10) Improves Bone Health Tomatoes have long been touted for their bone-building abilities, as they contain vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and potassium that are essential to bone health. A study by Baylor College of Medicine in Houston found that women who ate a lot of foods containing lycopene—which is what gives tomatoes their red color—had stronger bones than those who consumed less lycopene.
10 Surprising Health Benefits of Watermelon
Health Benefits of Watermelon! Watermelon is one of the most refreshing foods to eat on a hot summer day, and it’s packed with vitamins and nutrients that can improve your health. But did you know that it can also have some surprising benefits on your body? Here are 10 surprising health benefits of watermelon. 1) Soothes a cough Despite its name, watermelon isn’t really a melon—it’s a fruit. But don’t let that stop you from taking advantage of some unexpected health benefits. They are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which can reduce inflammation and soothe your throat during times when you have a cough or cold. 2) Provides hydration Watermelons are an excellent source of water, which means that eating them can replenish vital fluids lost during physical exertion. This makes them an excellent post-workout snack for athletes and fitness buffs alike. 3) Helps you lose weight Watermelon’s high water content helps you stay hydrated, which in turn allows your body to function properly. When we’re properly hydrated, our metabolism operates at peak performance and helps us burn more calories—so it’s a double-edged sword if you’re trying to lose weight. Additionally, it has an impressive fiber count that can help keep you full and satiated longer—which can also aid in weight loss. 4) Eases rheumatoid arthritis pain Research shows that watermelon extract can significantly reduce inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, according to a 2012 study in Rheumatology. The best part: you won’t even have to give up your favorite foods on a watermelon-based diet. 5) Reduces anxiety and depression Whether you eat it or drink it, watermelon is a great natural remedy for anxiety and depression. This juicy summertime fruit contains high levels of tryptophan, an amino acid that has been proven to reduce symptoms of these mood disorders. Additionally, it contains citrulline, which our bodies convert into arginine and nitric oxide. Nitric oxide relaxes blood vessels and increases blood flow to your brain—so eating water-melon can literally make you feel happier. 6) Lessens asthma symptoms Eating watermelon regularly may help decrease asthmatic symptoms, according to a study published in June 2014 in Plant Foods for Human Nutrition. Researchers at Michigan State University found that subjects who ate just over half a cup of water-melon per day experienced fewer asthma symptoms than those who did not eat water-melon. The spiky fruit also contains antioxidant properties that may prevent damage to lung tissue. 7) Aids in weight loss A cup of watermelon provides 90 percent of your daily requirement for lycopene. Lycopene is a compound found in red fruits and vegetables, including water-melons. Research has shown that eating foods rich in lycopene may help prevent cardiovascular disease and various types of cancer, according to Prevention magazine. 8) Prevents kidney stones Watermelons are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help to prevent certain types of kidney stones from forming. Some research suggests that men who consume large amounts of lycopene-rich foods such as watermelons have a lower risk of developing prostate cancer and heart disease. 9) Lowers blood pressure Although watermelon is 90% water, it’s still full of vitamins and minerals. Specifically, it contains lycopene, which has been shown to lower blood pressure and reduce heart disease risk. 10) Treats constipation The high water content in watermelons helps prevent constipation. The health benefits of water-melon include a vitamin C content that helps stave off tooth decay, making it a good fruit to eat for dental hygiene and disease prevention. In addition, the red color of water-melons means they contain lycopene which can help fight cancer and other chronic diseases. Additionally, water-melons are filled with fiber which is helpful for digestion—another reason why they are good health benefits to eat on a regular basis.
10 Surprising Health Benefits of Pears
Health Benefits of Pears A pear a day keeps the doctor away, or so the old adage goes. While it’s true that pears are high in fiber and vitamin C, many people don’t realize just how healthy they can be! Its have been used as medicine in China and Egypt, and its health benefits include aiding digestion, regulating blood sugar levels, improving joint health, preventing cancer, boosting immunity, fighting inflammation, and even reducing flatulence! Check out these 10 surprising health benefits of pears if you want to reap the rewards of this sweet treat with every bite! Prevents Cancer According to a study conducted by researchers at Pennsylvania State University, eating pears may help prevent colorectal cancer. The antioxidants in pears are known to detoxify harmful free radicals in our bodies and have also been proven to help fight cancer. Boosts Immunity Aside from being a delicious, crunchy snack, pears contain vitamin C and potassium, both of which have important health benefits. One study found that eating two servings of fruit or vegetables per day can cut your risk for colds by up to 60 percent (although scientists aren’t sure why). A diet rich in vitamin C may also protect against asthma and cancer. Potassium is key for regulating blood pressure and insulin levels, which means a high-potassium diet could help prevent type 2 diabetes. Helps in Weight Loss One reason pears are so beneficial is that they are low in calories and fat. Since they don’t contain many calories, they won’t contribute to weight gain or interfere with your weight loss efforts. Also, studies have shown that eating a pear before meals may help reduce hunger and cravings while you eat. And since most people tend to overeat when trying to clean their plate, these two factors make pears an excellent choice for those who want to lose weight. Lowers Blood Pressure The fiber in pears has been shown to help lower blood pressure. A pear-rich diet can also help with weight loss, as it’s high in fiber. Try to eat one pear a day for the best results. Keeps Heart Health in Check While pears aren’t considered to be a superfood, they do have some impressive health benefits. Like their fellow fruits, they’re high in fiber—but they also contain potassium and antioxidants like carotenoids and flavonoids. Plus, they’re a good source of vitamin C and copper, both of which help with heart health. Prevents Diabetes The high fiber content in pears helps regulate blood sugar levels and prevent insulin spikes. Plus, they’re low on the glycemic index (GI), which means they don’t release energy into your bloodstream too quickly, so you’ll stay fuller longer. The fiber and water in pears also help boost feelings of fullness. Prevents Osteoporosis The high-calcium content in pears helps improve bone health and decreases the risk for osteoporosis. In fact, a 2011 study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that pear peels and flesh contain particularly high levels of calcium. Pear skin has even been shown to inhibit bone resorption in rats—potentially reducing fracture risk. Prevents Colds and Flu Pears are rich in beta-carotene, an antioxidant that may help reduce your risk of colds and flu. In fact, research shows that people who consume a diet high in beta-carotene have half as many respiratory infections as those who eat little or none at all. Low Vitamin C Levels: If you suffer from frequent colds or influenza, pears may be a good food choice for you since they’re rich in vitamin C. Improves Digestion Fiber-rich pears aid digestion and help prevent constipation. Pair a pair with cheese for a filling snack that won’t weigh you down. Or add chopped pear to your favorite whole-grain cereal or oatmeal for an extra fiber boost. Fiber is also helpful in stabilizing blood sugar, helping regulate hunger, and keeping us fuller longer throughout the day. Keeps Skin Clear Since pears are high in vitamins and minerals, they’re great for your skin. A study published in 2006 in the British Journal of Nutrition found that women who ate pears had smoother skin than those who didn’t. If you have sensitive skin or acne, eating a pear regularly can make a big difference. These antioxidants also help neutralize free radicals in your body, which can reduce wrinkles and other signs of aging.