“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live”

Foods we eat are the source of energy and nutrition for our bodies. The following seven foods can make your immune system strong and help prevent you from various diseases.

1. AVOCADO

   The Avocado also known as Alligator Pear is generally available throughout the year. The avocado contains Carotenoids like beta-Carotene, alpha-Carotene and Lutein. The anti-inflammatory property of avocado is due to these Carotenoids. Avocado helps prevent the occurrence of cancers in the prostate gland and mouth.

   To garnish black bean soup use chopped avocados, while making a sandwich you can spread a ripe avocado on bread.

   Foods

   
   Avocado prevents skin from dehydration and keeps it smooth and plump. Mix a ripe avocado and ¼ cup sour cream and use it as an anti-aging mask.

   Image by : devlyn

2. TEA

   All teas green, black or white contain antioxidants which are skin boosting. Tea also provides EGCG (epigallocatechingallate) which is a skin protecting antioxidant. All kinds of teas are derived from the Camellia Sinensis plant which contains flavonoids.

   If you are a smoker, black tea can protect your lungs from damage caused by cigarette smoke. Antioxidants found in green tea may reduce the growth of lung, stomach, breast and colorectal cancers and may also reduce the risk of stroke.

   You can use tea as a hair color booster. Prepare 8 ounces, saturate strands and rinse with water after 15 to 30 minutes.

   TEA

3. ALMONDS

   Almonds are rich in protein, fiber, calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin E and other antioxidants which regulate your blood pressure and prevent Osteoporosis.

   To make skin smooth and soft, mix honey, almond oil and lemon juice and apply once a week as a face mask. Soaked and ground almonds mixed with milk or rose water may be used once a week as a face pack.

   Almonds

4. COCOA

   Cocoa has a number of  health benefits. Cocoa helps in decreasing blood pressure and may improve cholesterol level.

   According to Dr. Wu. “Cocoa has a high concentration of flavanols, plant compounds with antioxidant properties that help protect skin from sun damage”.

   For skin benefits add cocoa powder and dry milk in your bath tub.

   Cacao

5. YOGURT

   Yogurt is composed of calcium, zinc, vitamin- B1, B2, B6, B12 and protein which protects your bones and fight against cancer and diarrhea.

   Yogurt works as a natural moisturizer, it reduce pore size and improve skin texture. For a facial mask spread yogurt on your face and rinse off after 20 minutes.

   For dandruff apply yogurt on your head, wrap hair in a towel and rinse after 15 minutes.

   Image by : Dawn Endico

6. STRAWBERRIES

   Strawberries contain Vitamin C and Ellagic Acid. Vitamin C prevents your skin from environmental damage. Ellagic acid makes skin able to hold moisture. Strawberries are one of the delicious fruits. Mix Balsamic vinegar and puree strawberries and use it as a sauce for grilled chicken.

   For skin rub a piece of berry over your face, leave for a few minutes and then rinse to get soft and smooth skin.

   Image by : sanchom

7. COFFEE

   The coffee is also beneficial for your health. The risk of developing dementia, prostate cancer and Parkinson’s disease may be lower in moderate coffee drinkers.

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Caffeine has a number of benefits for health. Several eye creams contain caffeine because it has the ability to reduce under eye circles. Caffeine tightens the surface of skin through constriction therefore it is used in creams to reduce cellulite appearance.

A healthy food provides you with essential vitamins and minerals. Eat a variety of food and balance your diet for a healthier lifestyle.