What are the new super foods?

At no other time in history have people been more fascinated with the prospect of finding the fruit of the tree of life. Somewhat disenchanted with conservative medicine, they are attracted to any foods which hold the dual promise of health in the present and longer life in the future. Let's look at some of these foods and the claims made by many that they are indeed super foods.

Garlic

This one is really no surprise as it has for years been promoted as a preventative agent and fighter of disease. Garlic, mentioned in biblical times and just as popular in many circles today, has a number of claims to fame.

According to a number of studies done within both animals and test tubes, it seems garlic is able to reduce the formation of cancerous cells by actually blocking cancer-causing compounds.

Secondly, garlic helps normalise our cholesterol by raising HDL (good) cholesterol levels and lowering levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol. Recent studies have also shown that regularly eating garlic strengthens the aorta, the blood vessel that maintains blood pressure and blood flow while the heart is pumping.

Finally, garlic has been recognised since the mid-1800s for its natural anti-bacterial properties. Louis Pasteur found, during his research, that bacterial cells died when saturated with garlic. We now know that garlic also has antiviral and antifungal properties. All this without the side effects of prescription antibiotics! For further information go to http://www.essortment.com/all/ healthbenefits_rntv.htm

Cinnamon

This spice is another old-timer. Not only has this been shown to reduce the rate of growth of leukaemia and lymphoma cells; it relieves arthritic pain and even acts as a natural food preservative. Some studies suggest that it plays a role in regulating blood glucose levels, making it beneficial to those with Type 2 diabetes. Cinnamon can also lower LDL cholesterol and, like garlic, it inhibits bacterial growth. What is more, it tastes good!

For further information go to http://www.healthdiaries.com/e atthis/10-health-benefits-of-c innamon.html

Pomegranate Juice

Suddenly everyone seems to be talking about the juice of the pomegranate! What is it about this unusual-looking fruit that offers such amazing health benefits? According to historical records it was well-known thousands of years ago. Preliminary Israeli studies in 2004 showed that drinking concentrated pomegranate juice had a beneficial effect on both systolic blood pressure and LDL cholesterol levels.

More recent studies confirm that it combats hardening of the arteries, a vital factor in preventing heart disease. The fruit contains polyphenols, tannins and anthocyanins, all powerful antioxidants more potent, in fact, than those in red wine or green tea. To find out more, go to http://www.healthcastle.com/po megranate-juice.shtml

In ancient Greece the pomegranate was known as the fruit of the dead. Now it could well be called the fruit of life.

Goji Berry Juice

Otherwise known as the wolfberry, this comparative latecomer to the western health scene has some incredible healing properties according to those who promote it. Both Himalayan and Chinese goji berries are equally beneficial although the Himalayan variety is larger, plumper and sweeter.

It seems this berry contains 19 amino acids including the eight that are essential to life. In addition it boasts 21 trace minerals including zinc, calcium, germanium, selenium and phosphorus. Vitamins present include beta-carotene (precursor to Vitamin A) and huge amounts of Vitamins E and C.

You want more? Within the goji berry you will find the anti-inflammatory agent beta-sitosterol. This lowers LDL cholesterol (the bad guy) and looks after your sexual health. Omega 6 and linoleic fatty acid are also present. These regulate hormones. Like our other super foods, the goji berry has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.

Possibly the goji's greatest attraction today, when there is a desire to stay forever young, is its influence on contributing towards a long life. Research results are apparently favourable in this regard.

Of course the next question would have to be: Where do I find this wonder juice? I can't go to Nepal or China and bring it back. No, all you need to do is search the web for a store in your country that supplies goji berry juice. A useful site is info@gojiberryjuice.org So here's to health - and a long life!