MANILA, Philippines--The power of some foods could guarantee immunity from many lifestyle diseases.
It?s not just the apple packed with quercetin (powerful antioxidant) that can protect your heart from disease. Broccoli is a power vegetable that may also help keep cancer at bay.
Broccoli contains phytochemicals (phyto?plant) and nutrients that help strengthen the immune system and guarantee bone health.
A member of the cabbage family (including watercress, cauliflower, mustard, horseradish, turnip, Brussels sprouts), the name broccoli comes from the Latin word brachium meaning strong branch, referring to its main stem and multiple branches. Dubbed the ?five fingers of Jupiter? by Roman farmers, this vegetable has ancient beginnings.
High in vitamins C and K, it is believed that raw, fresh broccoli is a better cure for the common cold than a bowl of oranges. It is good for the blood and helps build up bones. Consider a serving of broccoli as the equivalent of one multivitamin/mineral supplement.
But what?s amazing about broccoli is it anti-cancer properties. Rich in phytonutrients sulforaphane and indole-3 carbinol, chemicals known as isothiocyanates, it becomes a strong detoxifying compound that flushes out carcinogen five times more powerful than cabbage, but less potent than broccoli sprouts. The 13C in this vegetable reduces the levels of the most dangerous form of estrogen?estrodial. It elevates levels of the safe estrogen?estriol. The result, lower risk in having breast and prostate cancers.
A study published by the journal of the National Cancer Institute says that 13C can inhibit cancer cells from reproducing up to an amazing 90 percent.
How to handle broccoli
1. Do not microwave or boil because it will result in 97 percent nutrient loss.
2. Steam, stir fry or take it raw.
3. Warning: If you have thyroid problems, it is best not to take it as broccoli contains a compound (just like soy) which can prevent your thyroid from absorbing iodine from food.
?Irritating? foods
Foods that irritate your insides can cause inflammation. An inflammatory state stresses the immune system, causing a breakdown in the body?s defense against disease.
Avoid sugar from any source especially refined sugar, processed foods, red meat, white bread/pasta, dairy, alcohol, caffeine, carbonated drinks, especially soft drinks.
Include the following: herbal teas, nuts, legumes, seeds, berries (especially ACAI and blueberries), ginger turmeric, sardines, mackerel, Atlantic salmon, ocean trout, whole foods, multi-colored and dark green vegetables, lean poultry, herring.
If you have a weak back or spine, eat food for your back. Your muscles need to support your spine. Eating the wrong foods will weaken your muscles. Include complex carbohydrates, low in saturated fats and adequate protein. Think calcium and vitamin A, fresh fruits and vegetables. Remember that the food you eat may save your back? maybe even your life.
Back-saver exercise
Lie flat on your back. Embrace your folded legs to your chest. Hold that pose for 30 seconds. Release, then repeat. This eases your lower back.
Affirm: ?Today?s best brings me a better tomorrow.?
Love and light!
