Equiessence

Olive oil (active component oleocanthal and rich in oleic acid) has been shown to reduce blood pressure, optimise cholesterol levels, provide anti-inflammatory benefits, minimise overgrowths of candida and helps to reduce free radicals and inflammation (thus cell damage) which in turn assists in the prevention of cancer. Choose an extra virgin olive oil that has not passed a year since it’s manufacturing date. When using it for cooking, the lower price virgin or extra virgin oils are fine Store it in a dark glass bottle or metal container.

Tomato Sauce contains carotenoid called lycopene. For best absorption of the lycopene, it should be cooked with fats. Men who eat more lycopene have a lower incidence of prostate cancer.

A dozen oysters a day contains a good 10 times the daily-recommended intake of zinc and half the iron and niacin.

Broccoli and Cabbage may increase protection against bladder cancer.

Garlic contains allicin, which encourages white blood cells to reproduce thus boosting the body’s defence system. It needs to be eaten raw for maximum benefit.

A small amount of peanut butter containing monounsaturated fats can decrease your risk of heart disease.

Tofu contains isoflavones that are beneficial to bones to help prevent osteoporosis. It can also reduce hot flushes in menopausal women.

Venison is an excellent low fat source of iron. This is particularly helpful to women who generally have lower iron levels due to menstruation.

Octopus (cooked) has more than double the iron content of the same as amount as cooked lean beef and has less fat.

Lobster provides seven times the iron and over double the zinc of the same size amount of cooked chicken breast.

Spring greens are the greens with the best source of calcium, vitamins D and K and therefore may assist in avoiding osteoporosis.

Papaya is a low calorie vitamin C packed refreshing fruit. It has been said to promote healthy gall bladder activity.

Manuka Honey is from the Manuka Bush (a native plant to New Zealand). It has unique antibacterial properties due to an enzyme called glucose oxidase. This enzyme produces hydrogen peroxide that acts as the antiseptic property. This anti-bacterial component has even been given its own classification – the UMF (unique Manuka factor). UMF5, UMF10 and UMF20 strengths are available for treating different conditions. Manuka Honey can stimulate the immune system and assist the body in dealing with infections.

Flaxseed (a nutty red seed) contains lignans. Theses are oestrogen like compounds that are helpful for menopausal women.

Turmeric used in curry powders and mustard, has been seen to decrease plaque in the brain and prevent loss of synapses. Use it liberally when you want to spice up your food and boost your brainpower at the same time.

Chicken soup really can assist a bad cold. The amino acid cysteine is released from the chicken when it is cooked and this thins mucus and eases congestion. The combination of heat, fats, spices and water dampen down the inflammatory action to soothe your throat. If capsaicin (found in pepper) has also been added it has been shown to add benefits in easing congestion further.

White button mushrooms are loaded with anti-tumour, anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. Increased intake may promote natural immunity against tumours and viruses.

Dark circles under the eyes can be caused by a lack of vitamin k.  Good sources of vitamin K are: broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, spinach, lettuce and soybeans.

A note on POLYPHENOLS

Polyphenols (a type of plant chemical) called procyanidins are powerful anti-oxidants that help prevent the build up of fatty deposits in the arteries (atherosclerosis). Eating foods rich in Polyphenols helps to achieve optimum blood vessel function.

Well-known sources are chocolate and red wine (to be consumed in moderation of course).

Here are some of the other excellent sources:

Cinnamon is a rich source of procyanidins and is versatile as it can be used in both sweet and savoury foods.

Walnuts are one of the best nut sources of Polyphenols and are found in the skin that coats the walnut.

Pomegranates contain a mixture of Polyphenols and the juice has been shown to decrease blood pressure as well as maintain healthy blood vessel function. Concord Grape Juice is also in this category.

Raspberries are the best berry source of Polyphenols.

Cranberries are a rich source of procyanidins and have also been shown to relieve urinary tract infections. When buying cranberry juice drinks, make sure that they contain at least 25% cranberry juice and choose brands that have less sugar added.

Apples are a rich source of procyanidins. An apple a day, really is good for you.

Note – Polyphenols are not very stable molecules and so are easily damaged by overcooking. Light or no cooking brings optimum benefits and a variety of food is always recommended.

So there we have it – a few items to include in your shopping trolley for greater health benefits.  Enjoy.  Moderation and variety is the motto to follow when following a healthy diet.