You Should Have Healthy Foods For A Long Life

Nutrition & Weight LossDecember 29, 2017

It is essential to have healthy foods in order to live a long life without major health issues. It is a fact that the type of diet we have has an impact on the body. Therefore, everyone should aim to have foods that support the body.

Healthy food isn’t just about anything that leaves the belly full. It is more about keeping the body healthy and leaving you in a position to battle common body problems. Let us consider why we should be having healthy foods.

“If you don’t take care of your body, where are you going to live?” ~Unknown

Healthy Foods Contain Antioxidants that battle Aging

Unstable oxygen molecules in the body can contribute to the process of aging. However, you can battle this problem by eating foods that are rich in antioxidants. Colorful fruits and vegetables such as berries, beets, and tomatoes are rich in antioxidants. These can reduce the risk of developing cancer and heart disease. You should take at least 5 to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables in your diet every day.

The Beneficial Properties of Olive Oil

Olive oil is a tasty monounsaturated fat that has a positive impact on the memory. Extra virgin olive oil has a compound known as oleocanthal, a natural anti-inflammatory that has same effects as ibuprofen. Studies have proven that extra virgin olive oil can increase the good cholesterol in the body, which clears fat from the walls of the blood vessels. This prevents a condition that is known as arteriosclerosis.

Fish Is A Healthy Food For the Brain

Fish is a brain food because of the fatty acids it contains in the form of DPA and EPA. These are important for the development of the brain and the nervous system. Having fish a couple of times every week may reduce the risks of dementia. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish can lower cholesterol and triglycerides. They can also help to ease inflammation.

Do Not Forget The Fiber From Beans

Adding fiber-rich beans to the diet three or four times a week can help to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, prevent constipation and help with digestion. A high-fiber diet will keep you feeling full for longer. Therefore, fiber is also helpful in managing one’s weight. Beans contain complex carbohydrates which regulate glucose levels, so they are important for people who could be suffering from diabetes.

The Benefit of Having Vegetables

Vegetables contain fiber, plenty of vitamins, and minerals. They also contain phytonutrients that offer protection from diseases. Dark and leafy greens contain vitamin K, which is essential for strong bones. Sweet potatoes and carrots have vitamin A, which is beneficial for the eyes, the skin, and protects against infections. A serving of tomatoes or products made from tomatoes every day may prevent the development of prostate cancer.

A Mediterranean diet

People who live close to the Mediterranean regularly have olive oil, fish, vegetables, whole grains and an occasional glass of red wine. They rely on spices and herbs to flavor the food rather than using salt. A Mediterranean diet is beneficial for heart health and can reduce mild memory impairment. It even wards off certain types of cancer.

Dairy Foods

Fortified beverages such as milk contain vitamin D, which helps to increase calcium absorption. This is particularly helpful for the bones. Higher levels of vitamin D can reduce the risk of prostate, breast, and colon cancers. Having yogurt with live cultures is helpful for the digestion.

“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well if one has not dined well.” —Virginia Woolf

These are some of the products you should look for if you wish to live long. They provide your body the nutrition it needs while keeping you fit at the same time.