2015 Ultimate Superfoods!

We have all been told that “fruits and veggies” are vital for weight management and the prevention of chronic diseases. However, “why” and “how” these superfoods have such significant effects are details that are rarely emphasized. A recent study finds new evidence on the direct effects of an ingredient in foods like apples and green tea called polyphenols on atherosclerosis (build-up of fats, cholesterol, and other substances on the artery walls) and angiogenesis (generation of new blood vessels, particularly in cancer cells). Here are two positive and profound effects that polyphenols can have on your health: 1) Polyphenols directly block a signaling molecule in the body that triggers atherosclerosis and angiogenesis 2) Polyphenols facilitate in the production of nitric oxide in the blood, which induces vasodilation (relaxation and widening of the blood vessels), thus reducing hypertension. Try these superfoods to boost your overall health!

Fruits: Plums Strawberries Sweet cherries Blackberries

Vegetables: Black and Green Olives Artichoke Heads Celery Seed Red Onion

Nuts: Chestnuts Hazelnuts Pecan nuts

Seeds; Flaxseed Almonds Chestnuts Hazelnuts Pecan nuts

Herbs: Rosemary Sweet Basil Spearmint

Sources: www.sciencedaily.com, www.nature.com