Foods That Heal...

...certainly live up to their saying: 'an apple a day keeps the doctor away'.
The phyto-nutrients found in apples, such as quercetin, kaempferol, myricetin and chlorogenic acid act as antioxidants within the body and have been researched for their potential role in cardiovascular health, blood sugar regulation and their anti-asthma and anti-cancer benefits.
Apple consumption has been found to be most beneficial for colon, breast and lung cancers, so it's an invaluable addition to any diet.

...are high in essential omega fats, which are food for the brain, nervous system, skin and hair.
Contrary to popular belief, avocados do not make you fat!
In fact, studies have shown that those who have high amounts of healthy fats like avocados (and indeed coconut oil) in their diet are more likely to be a healthy weight.

...is widely known for it's potential to reduce high blood pressure aka hypertension, due to the high levels of potassium it contains, coupled with negligible sodium levels.
It's not only the high levels of potassium but also the fibre that contributes to the cardio-protective effects.

...has had, to date, more than 300 research trials conducted with it to understand whether it could have a beneficial impact on cancer. The results indicate that components found within it are involved in 3 key areas of cancer incidence: inflammation, oxidative stress and detoxification.

...is a naturally gluten-free 'grain' derived from a fruit seed. It has received a lot attention recently for its apparent ability to lower blood sugar levels, which would be great news for diabetics.
A compound in buckwheat called 'd-chiro-inositol' may directly impact glucose metabolism and signalling between cells. It appears the d-chiro-inositol makes the body cells more sensitive to insulin, so the blood sugar levels may be controlled more easily.

...are a source of fibre, magnesium and folate, which are nutrients known to reduce cholesterol and improve heart health.
They are also extremely high in a lesser known micro-mineral called molybdenum. It works with copper to control how iron is moved and released within the body, which is an important action as without it our tissue oxygen needs will not be met.
A 200 gram serving of butter beans will provide you with over 80% of your daily requirement of molybdenum.

...is popularly believed to stop us going 'blind'.
This is virtually true because the eye's retina needs vitamin A to function properly. Carrots are very rich in beta-carotene which the body converts into vitamin A in the liver. Studies have also isolated a component in carrots called falcarinol which has demonstrated anti-cancer effects.
Further research states that those who consume more than 6 carrots a week versus those who only ate 1 carrot a month, were much less likely to suffer a stroke.

...have less fat than other nuts and the majority is in the form of oleic acid, the same heart-friendly fat found in olive oil.
They are high in magnesium, which helps with cramps, as it helps muscles to relax. Cashews have been shown to reduce the risk of developing colon cancer, thought to be due to high levels of proanthocyanidins which starve tumours and prevent cancer cell division.

...have garnered significant interest in recent years from those suffering with gout, due to their anti-inflammatory effect.
Studies have shown that the particular polyphenol compound that cherries contain (anthocyanins), blocks the actions of cyclooxygenase-1 and -2 enzymes, thus reducing the pain caused by inflammation.
It has also been noted that athletes recover better after training and experience less muscle pain when consuming cherry juice before and after exercise.
Cherries are extremely high in antioxidants, most notably melatonin. Melatonin can cross the blood-brain barrier, leading to a calming effect on brain neurons, which in turn may help those suffering with insomnia or nervous conditions.

...unlike its 'milkier' counterpart, is high in antioxidants, which help reduce the 'bad' LDL cholesterol.
It also has flavonoids, which maintain blood pressure and reduce the chance of blood clots.
Opt for high-quality chocolate with a minimum cocoa content of 70% - ideally 80% - for optimal health benefits with minimal sugar consumption.

...is known not only for its anti-nausea properties, but also as a potent anti-inflammatory and has demonstrated great promise in the natural treatment of arthritis.
Trial participants noted less pain when they moved the affected joint and less swelling. This anti-inflammatory action appears to be due to a phenol within ginger called gingerol that stops damage from free radicals and also helps to suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines that may lead to swelling in the synovial lining of joints.

...is served by the Koreans at every meal because of its fantastic health properties. It is made by fermenting cabbage with spicy red pepper, garlic and salt.
Recent studies have pointed out its anti-viral and potential anti-cancer effects, not to mention that it helps to promote healthy gut bacteria such as lactobacillus and bifidobacteria which we need for producing B vitamins and to ensure optimal immune function.