In addition to a healthy dose of vitamin A as betacarotene, pumpkin also provides the eye-healthy phytochemicals lutein and zeaxanthin. It’s also one of the best sources of beta-cryptoxanthin, a carotenoid linked to lower risks of lung and prostate cancer, as well as to improved joint health. A British study found that people with the highest intake of beta-cryptoxanthin had half the risk of developing polyarthritis (inflammation affecting two or more joint groups) than those with lower consumption levels.
Health Value Of Foods
A healthy diet is rich in foods with high nutritional value, providing your body with the vitamins, minerals and other food nutrients it needs to protect against disease and maintain a healthy weight. To identify healthy foods, it's important to read nutrition labels and know the source of your food. Products advertised as whole-grain, organic or fortified may not necessarily be healthy for you. Find out how to get the most health value from various fruits, nuts, spices, oils and vegetables -- and learn which types of red meat and processed foods to avoid -- with expert advice from Sharecare.
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Ms. Vandana R. Sheth , Nutrition & Dietetics, answered on behalf of Academy of Nutrition and DieteticsAbsolutely! Just make sure that you have washed and scrubbed the sweet potato thoroughly before using it in recipes. Keeping the skin on helps retain the nutrients and enhances the nutritional quality.
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RealAge answeredPeople in a study experienced better blood flow in their brachial arteries just three hours after eating the equivalent of one and a quarter cups of grapes. At 104 calories a delicious cup, that’s a pretty juicy deal.
The blood flow benefits were even better after three weeks of consistent eating. Researchers think it may be the antioxidants in grapes that help keep blood vessels relaxed and blood flowing freely. In fact, grapes may even help protect your blood vessels from fatty meals—something that normally does immediate, transient damage. Early animal research suggests that something in grapes may help protect your blood pressure from salty foods, too.
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Ms. Vandana R. Sheth , Nutrition & Dietetics, answered on behalf of Academy of Nutrition and DieteticsSee All 2 Answers
Soy beans are a rich source of plant protein. It is a complete protein and especially useful for vegetarians. They also provide vitamins and minerals such as folate, potassium, high levels of polyunsaturated fats, and low levels of saturated fat. According to the AHA, soy is thought to be a healthy alternative to meats and other high saturated fatty foods. Also, recent research suggests that soy might help lower the risk of developing some types of cancer, osteoporosis, bone health problems, and with relieving symptoms of hot flashes connected with menopause.
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See All 3 AnswersSpinach: This “Super vegetable” is an excellent source of Vitamins C and A; which are powerful antioxidants. It is also a source of folic acid which may protect against heart attacks and stroke. Spinach also contains Neoxanthin, a carotenoid which may cause destruction of prostate cancer cells.
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Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics answeredRed, orange, yellow, green, purple—tomatoes come in as many colors as the rainbow, and each variety has its own distinct taste. An excellent source of vitamin C and a good source of vitamin A, potassium and fiber, tomatoes are also low in calories (just 32 calories per cup).
Red tomatoes offer an additional benefit. Lycopene, the pigment that gives red tomatoes their color, appears to have strong antioxidant capabilities. Research suggests that a lycopene-rich diet may be associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer and heart disease.
Lesser known varieties, such as Black Prince, Green Zebra and White Queen, are becoming more common at farmers markets.