Red is for Heart Health
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The red food group is benefit-rich, and can help reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. Red can also contribute to longevity and reduce signs of aging, as they are most known for their antioxidant properties, and support a healthy cardiovascular system by helping oxygen and nutrients get around the bloodstream. In this way they aid in the fight against free radicals - known cause of oxidative stress.
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[RED FOODS]… CAN HELP REDUCE THE RISK OF HEART DISEASE, CANCER, AND TYPE 2 DIABETES, AS WELL AS CONTRIBUTE TO LONGEVITY AND REDUCE SIGNS OF AGING.
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Free radicals are a byproduct of the body’s natural metabolic process of turning food into fuel. Essentially, during this process, atoms in our cells undergo a series of oxidation and reduction reactions and, when conditions are unfavorable, these reactions can leave behind atoms with unpaired electrons. Think of the emotional pull on us when we are deeply missing our friends, family or partners - this is the state of the free radical, he is a lonely atom deeply and desperately missing his electron mate. And, just as we all get a case of the crazies when we are separated from those we love, likewise, the free radical goes haywire, causing destruction everywhere until he has made his match again.
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But, what set this radical free in the first place you might ask? Conspiracy theorists might say the government. Others will blame food tech. Studies show the culprit is most likely meals high in salt, fat, and sugar, processed foods, and other dietary no-no’s. Avoiding these gastronomic digressions is the surest way to prevent the accumulation of free radicals in your system. However, if you do need an occasional ‘reset’ after a hearty holiday meal or friend’s dinner party, to counteract the effects of processed foods, or simply to turn back the hands of time and surface the most youthful you, grab a tomato, some strawberries, or other red fruit or legume and bask in the benefits of its replenishing properties. Eating a diet rich in antioxidants can also help keep some chronic diseases at bay, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer, which are exacerbated by oxidative stress.
HERE ARE A FEW RED FOODS RICH IN NUTRIENT BENEFITS:
Apples, Beets, Cherries, Cranberries, Pomegranates, Radishes, Red Bell Peppers, Strawberries, Tomatoes. Some friends-of-the-family (not red but act like it): Green Tea, Pecans, Walnuts.
Continue reading > Yellows Fight Inflammation