Have you heard the saying "you are what you eat"? Well, it's true! Everything you put in your mouth comes through in your skin, hair and nails.Here's how it works: the nutrients in the food you eat are made available to every cell in the body through the process of digestion and absorption. As you chew, saliva lubricates food so it can pass down the esophagus to the stomach. Once the stomach has done it's work, it moves to the intestines. This is where nutrients from carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals are absorbed. These nutrients are then transported by a network of vessels, the Lymphatic System, to the heart. The Circulatory System, consisting of the heart, arteries, capillaries and veins, reaches every organ and tissue in the body supplying cells with nutrients obtained from food.
These nutrients can either help you or hurt you depending on what you eat. There are foods that can cause high cholesterol , obesity and heartburn and there are foods that can prevent cancer, diabetes and heart disease. There are foods that can stimulate cell renewal, relieve inflammation and fight free radicals. As you can see, food is very powerful.
The following foods are often called "super foods" because of their amazing benefits for the body:
Wheatgrass is rich in the antioxidants selenium, Vitamins A and E and beta-carotene.
Blueberries are at the top of the list of antioxidant-rich foods. Phytochemicals in blueberries strengthen blood vessels and are useful in treating varicose veins.
Cantaloupe helps lower blood cholesterol levels and high blood pressure.
Kiwi is a powerhouse of nutrients for its size including crazy amounts of Vitamin C.
Strawberries dissolve tartar deposits on teeth and protect against skin disorders.
Broccoli has the ability to prevent cancer by protecting cells from free-radical damage; contains Vitamins C and E which are antioxidants.
Cauliflower contains compounds that stimulate detoxification to neutralize carcinogens, preventing them from attacking healthy cells.
Carrots contain beta-carotene which boosts the immune system and reduces the risk of many cancers.
Sweet Potato has the ability to reduce the risk of osteoporosis; key nutrients include calcium, magnesium, Vitamins C and E and beta-carotene.
Quinoa provides all of the essential amino acids including lysine, not usually found in vegetables. Perfect for vegetarians.
Almonds are high in calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, folic acid and protien. Almond oil is good for the skin.
Water maintains, heals, rejuvenates and rehabilitates the body. Water can also slow down the aging process.
Think of food as a gift for your body; you want to give your body the best gift ever! Treat your body well by feeding it lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds and 2 quarts of water per day. Your skin, hair, nails and organs will thank you by keeping you looking and feeling Glamorous.
