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Better Food = Better Body

The expression that you are what you eat is very true.

One of the best ways to stay fit is to eat a healthful diet, but not everyone knows which foods are right for his or her particular needs.

On The Saturday Early Show, Samantha Heller, a nutritionist with New York University Medical Center, shared advice on food you can eat to improve your health.

Heller explained that foods not only benefit your health - she says they also can make you sick. So, you have to be aware of what you are eating. Heller recommends that everyone load up on fruits and vegetables and stay away from junk food.

Foods for the Eyes
A problem that many older folks develop is macular degeneration. It leads to a loss of the sharp, central vision needed to perform many daily task. Many sufferers have problems with activities such as driving, reading, or even recognizing people.

Foods that are good for your eyes are:

  • Spinach
  • Broccoli
  • Orange Fruits & Vegetables
  • Corn
  • Cold-water Fish

    Some of the foods listed contain properties such as lutein, which helps block blue light. Others, such as fish, contain omega-3 fatty acids, which also promote eye health by decreasing inflammation.

    Foods for the Heart
    Foods that can protect your heart contains a whole host of phyto-chemicals that help decrease the progression or the initiation of heart disease. They can help your heart beat regularly and help your blood clot properly. And fiber can help lower your cholesterol levels.

    Foods that are good for the heart are:

  • Fruits
  • Vegetables
  • Garlic
  • Onions
  • Oats
  • Cold-water Fish
  • Grape Juice
  • Red Wine
  • Nuts

    Foods for the Brain
    Studies have shown that when older Americans ate a serving of blueberries every day for a month, they performed better on tests that measured mental skills. Foods that help maintain your mental edge contain bioflavonoids, which keep free radicals from damaging the brain.

    Foods that are good for the brain are:

  • Blueberries
  • Raspberries
  • Blackberries
  • Teas
  • Green Leafy Vegetables

    Foods to Protect Against Cancer
    Foods to help protect against cancer contain antioxidants, which are good for you.

    Foods that are good for protecting against cancer are:

  • Garlic
  • Fruits
  • Vegetables
  • Soybeans

    Medical experts suggest eating about five servings a day of vegetables to get health benefits. It's really hard to eat too many vegetables because they contain so many good things - and they fill you up. Heller suggests two to four servings a day of fruit. Experts do warn of eating too much fruit because they can add to your weight.

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