The ABC of Healthy Foods (P, Q, R)

The ABC of Healthy Foods (P, Q, R)

P

Parsley - Parsley is rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, beta-carotene and quercetin, but also contains less well known flavonoids like apigenin, luteolin and chrysoeroil. Apigenin, abundant in parsley, has been shown to interfere with cancer cell proliferation, exhibiting strong anti-tumor properties.  It has been associated with a decreased risk of pancreatic cancer, leukemia, cervical and ovarian cancer.  The flavonoid luteolin in parsley has a chemopreventive (anti-cancer) action by reducing the effects of carcinogenic compounds called heterocyclic amines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons found in foods like cooked meat.  Research has also shown luteolin to have an anti-proliferative effect against hormonal cancers such as prostate, thyroid and breast cancer. Another flavonoid, chrysoeroil, has likewise been studied for its potential for preventing breast cancer.

Potato – One sweet potato has almost eight times the amount of cancer-fighting and immune-boosting vitamin A you need daily. Potato is in the list of the 10 Healthiest Foods on the Planet.

R

Red Pepper – Red pepper in its various forms enhance metabolism, increase satiety and potentially stimulate fat burning.

Rosemary – Tea made from a thumb-sized piece has been known to lift spirits in people suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and hangovers. Infuse warm red wine with rosemary, cinnamon, and cloves to soothe winter colds.