Almost every unprocessed food has inherent nutritional value. Loaded with vitamins and minerals, the right foods do a great job keeping your body healthy. Check out how these common conditions can be aided by some superstar everyday foods.
Lower Cholesterol
A recent study conducted at Florida State University showed a 23% decrease in LDL (bad) cholesterol among women who consumed an apple a day for six months. As if that's not beneficial enough, this group also managed to boost their HDL (good) cholesterol by 4%. Pectin, a fiber found in high concentrations in apples, is the hero in this story. Keep in mind, the benefit is in the whole fruit, and not apple juice! Other foods containing higher amounts of pectin include peaches, carrots and peas.
Reduce Anxiety
If life is stressing you out, and you're feeling a little anxious, reach for a handful of pumpkin seeds. Just one cup of pumpkin seeds are packed with magnesium, which has a calming effect on the body. Other foods that are rich in magnesium include black beans, almonds, cashews and cooked spinach.
Control Blood Pressure
A healthy diet is always important for anyone, particularly those with high blood pressure. If you're looking for a great food to help control or reduce high blood pressure, reach for an avocado. Avocados are a good source of potassium, which has been shown to reduce high blood pressure. Other foods high in potassium include swiss chard, halibut, cantaloupe, yams, papaya and of course, bananas.
