1. Cherries
Researchers at the University of Michigan in East Lansing have found at least 17 compounds in cherries that possess antioxidant properties, with tart cherries having higher levels than sweet cherries. Identified as anthocyanins, these compounds help to reduce inflammation in the body.
In fact, it was found that the anthocyanins in 35 tart cherries can have a better result than aspirin when it comes to reduction of pain and inflammation. Low-calorie cherries also contain melatonin which has been found to help prevent memory loss, decrease symptoms of jet lag and regulate natural sleep cycles.
2. Apples
Apples are an excellent source of fiber as well as antioxidants. They have powerful antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. The phytonutrients and antioxidants found in apples have been found to be beneficial in reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, hypertension and even some cancers.
3. Bananas
As we all know, bananas are packed with high levels of potassium, which has the ability to help lower blood pressure. Bananas also contain healthy carbs that help keep you full longer, boosts energy levels, and metabolism. For thousands of years bananas have been used to help ease stomach aches, reduce stress levels, soothe heartburn, improve digestion, soothe symptoms of PMS, relieve heartburn pains and improve brain health. Bananas also contain a healthy amount of vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, B6, folate, riboflavin, magnesium, manganese, copper, protein and dietary fiber.
4. Pomegranates
Pomegranates are equivalent to green tea and red wine when it comes to the healthy antioxidants they provide. Packed with potassium and vitamin C, pomegranates are said to be helpful in lowering risks for cancer (particularly breast and prostate) and heart disease. They may also help reduce cholesterol and aid in the maintenance of healthy body weight.
5. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are packed with vital nutrients more than 20! One important nutrient, lycopene, has been studied for many years for its powerful antioxidant properties. It may help protect against a growing number of cancers (like breast, colorectal, endometrial, lung, pancreatic and prostate). In fact, lycopene is ten times more powerful when it comes to devouring oxygenated free radicals than vitamin E. It is important to note that levels of lycopene in tomatoes are significantly enhanced through cooking and the addition of a bit of fat or oil.
6. Grapefruit
A fresh, juicy grapefruit is an excellent way to boost your vitamin C intake as well as many other vitamins and nutrients. It helps lower cholesterol levels, boosting heart health and it contains healthy amounts of fiber and antioxidants. Grapefruits are a low calorie snack, known to help increase the body’s metabolic rate and lower insulin levels. In addition, grapefruits also have been found to help, improve fatigue, fevers, diabetes, constipation, indigestion, urinary problems and many more health conditions.
7. Red Potatoes
Red potatoes are also a rich source of many other vitamins, minerals and fiber, contain little fat and sodium and are completely cholesterol free. They stand alone as a side dish or snack, or you can use them to replace some of the meat in stews or curries to reduce the overall fat and cholesterol content. Get 30% of your daily B-6 and 46% potassium in a single, large red potato.
Sources:
http://www.pcrm.org
http://blogs.natureshappiness.com/7-superfruits-you-need-for-improved-health/
http://www.ivlproducts.com/Health-Library/Health-Concerns/Superfoods/The-Top-7-Red-Fruits/
http://thescienceofeating.com/2015/03/12/benefits-of-red-potatoes/
http://www.dailyperricone.com
