Beans
Description:
Beans are a very good source of cholesterol-lowering fiber, as are most other legumes. In addition to lowering cholesterol, beans' high fiber content prevents blood sugar levels from rising too rapidly after a meal, making these beans an especially good choice for individuals with diabetes, insulin resistance or hypoglycemia. When combined with whole grains such as brown rice, black beans provide virtually fat-free high quality protein. You may already be familiar with beans' fiber and protein, but this is far from all that beans have to offer.
Beans are an excellent source of the trace mineral, molybdenum, an integral component of the enzyme sulfite oxidase, which is responsible for detoxifying sulfites. Sulfites are a type of preservative commonly added to prepared foods like delicatessen salads and salad bars. Persons who are sensitive to sulfites in these foods may experience rapid heartbeat, headache or disorientation if sulfites are unwittingly consumed. If you have ever reacted to sulfites, it may be because your molybdenum stores are insufficient to detoxify them.
A cup of beans will give you 172.0% of the daily value for this helpful trace mineral. Research published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry indicates that black beans are as rich in antioxidant compounds called anthocyanins as grapes and cranberries, fruits long considered antioxidant superstars.
Blueberry
Description:
Northern Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) is a species of blueberry native to Eastern North America. It is a deciduous shrub that is often found in dense thickets. The leaves are dark green and glossy. The flowers are white and bell shaped. Centuries ago, Native Americans used Blueberry tea as an antispasmodic for cramps, hiccups, colic, cholera morbus (severe gastroenteritis), epilepsy and hysterics. Many species of Vaccinium have a long history of use for medicinal purposes.
All parts of the plant have been used with the fruit being favored in Europe, while the leaves, stems and bark are more widely used by Native Americans. Native American women used Blueberries to ease childbirth during labor and also used the tea. They ate the berries to treat scurvy, diarrhea, dropsy, and bilious fevers. Chippewa Indians dried the berries and placed them on hot stones and inhaled the fumes to drive out madness.
Blueberries are a wonderful source of vitamin C, iron, and dietary fiber. Blueberries also contain carbohydrates, which help prevent coliform (harmful) bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder and urethra, in the same way as cranberries. The attachment of harmful bacteria to organ walls is how an infection begins. Blueberry root has diuretic, astringent, and antispasmodic properties. Blueberries has a laxative effect, but this fruit also cleanses the blood, and improves circulation and visual acuity. It is possible they may also protect against cataracts and glaucoma.
Preliminary studies have shown Blueberries to be effective in the treatment of varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and peptic ulcers. This fruit is also used to reduce fever and hot agues (fit of shivering). The leaves of this fruit are used to help regulate blood sugar in borderline diabetes and hypoglycemia. There is some evidence to suggest that Blueberries can help relieve symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
Broccoli
Description:
Ancient Romans used Broccoli as a source of food; however, it did not garner attention as a medicinal plant until the 20th century. Broccoli is rich in vitamins A and C, and beta carotene, calcium, chromium, fiber, and phytochemicals. This vegetable has antioxidant, anti-viral, and anti-ulcer properties. It is thought that Broccoli boosts the enzymes that help detoxify the body.
Taking Broccoli supplements or eating Broccoli daily can help prevent certain types of cancers such as lung, colon, and breast cancer. It also helps lower blood cholesterol, and prevent diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, and high blood pressure. The chromium in Broccoli helps regulate insulin and blood sugar.