FOODS TO KEEP YOU HEALTHY. . .

1. Coffee - Among its remarkable benefits, new research shows. coffee may reduce the risk of diabetes, heart attack, gallstones, Parkinsons's disease, kidney stones, and cirrhosis (disease of the liver). Black coffee may lead to thinner bones, especially in women, so add milk to your coffee.

2. Chocolate - Dark chocolate, which contains at least 70% cocoa, has proven health benefits. It contains less sugar than white or milk chocolate, and is a rich source of health-promoting compounds such as polyphenols and flavonoid antioxidants (similar to those found in green tea). Studies show that even a small intake of dark chocolate may reduce the risk of blood clots that cause heart attack or stroke and may lower blood pressure. Chocolate also can life your mood and give you a boost of energy. Chocolate is high in calories and contains saturated fat, so enjoy it in moderation - no more than 2-1/2 ounces a day.
3. Pizza - Pizza isn't exactly a health food, but it certainly is a food with healthy ingredients. Tomato sauce is rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Recent studies suggest that lycopene may have a range of benefits including reducing the risk of cancer and lowering cholesterol and blood pressure. Adding veggies to pizza further improves its health benefits. But stay away from sausage, pepperoni, and other toppings rich in saturated fat - you already get that with the cheese. The biggest concern about pizza is calories and what they can do to your waistline, so order by the slice.

4. Eggs - Eggs get a bad rap. Their negative reputation started because egg yolks are a source of cholesterol. But studies have not shown that the risk of cardiovascular disease increases in egg eaters. In a study of more than 115,000 men and women, there was no association between egg intake and the risk of coronary heart disease or stroke over an eight-year period, except among those with diabetes. Women who ate more than one egg a day actually had the lowest risk of coronary heart disease. Eggs also are a great source of protein, and many organic eggs are now rich in omega-3 fatty acids, thanks to a change in chicken feed.

5. Fish - Eating fish twice a week may cut your risk of heart attack, stroke, and sudden cardiovascular death. Fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which may reduce the risk of diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and inflammation. The best for your health are oily and small fish such as sardines, herrings, anchovies, salmon (organic or wild), and mackerel (except king mackerel). Large fish such as swordfish, tuna, tilefish, and shark live at the top of the marine food chain and accumulate many contaminants. In general, canned chunk light tuna - lower in such contaminants as mercury than albacore or sushi tuna - is also a good choice.


From: The Parade Magazine, July 27