SUPERFOODS - HOW SPECIAL PLANTS PROMOTE HEALTH
Filed Under Dr. Zoltan Rona (MD) |
WHAT ARE THEY?
Superfoods are live whole foods offering the most complete and balanced protection against disease causing free radicals. They are highly concentrated in protein, complex carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, enzymes, coenzymes, vitamins, minerals and potent “phytonutrients” (i.e. antioxidants derived from plants). Consuming superfoods mixed with water or juice is a very convenient way of obtaining essential ‘living’ nutrients often missing in our diets and synthetic vitamin and mineral tablets.
SUPERFOODS’ PHYTOCHEMICALS/PROPERTIES
Microalgae (spirulina, chlorella, dunaliella, blue green algae) mixed carotenoids with better antioxidant protection than beta carotene alone
Flower pollens (e. g. bee pollen) flavonoids and polyphenols improve energy levels and allergies
Herbal extracts (e.g. bilberry) anthocyanidins improve circulation and prevent eye disease
Herbal extracts (e.g. tumeric) curcumin has anti-inflammatory, anti-autoimmune disease effects similar to cortisone
Herbal extracts (e.g. horseradish) phenethyl isothiocyanates protect against cancer
Herbal extracts (e.g. cayenne pepper) capsaicin improves coronary artery circulation, eases pain and supports healthy digestion
Vegetable/fruit extracts (e.g. cruciferous vegetables like broccoli) isothiocyanates, indoles, lutein and sulphorophane support liver detoxification and protect against breast and other cancers
Legumes (e.g. soybeans) isoflavonoids (genistein,daidzein) and lignins optimize sex hormones and immunity
Seeds (e.g. grape seeds) proanthocyanidins support capillary integrity and improve ligament flexibility
Discuss the use of these and other superfoods with your health care provider.
Dr. Rona
