Common foods, unusual benefits

Sheela Seharawat

There are numerous foods that Mother Nature provides us and, in turn, these provides our body with all the valuable and essential nutrients it requires to function optimally. There are some foods with exceptional qualities and promote good health. Perhaps the phrase – You are what you eat – still holds true. Now that we know certain foods provide us with all our body needs, why not know the one that can provide us with unusual benefits. Let’s know about regular and usual foods with unusual benefits.

Sweet Potatoes
It won’t be wrong to say that it is one of the most nutritious vegetables that you can ever get to and if we let the skins be, it has everything from vision boosting vitamin A to hearty potassium. Though richly sugary in taste, it is very low in calories and free of fat and cholesterol.

Peanuts
Enriched with the goodness of proteins our bodies require to repair and build muscles, peanuts are blessed with poly and mono-unsaturated fats, important for the health of the heart. Studies confirm the nutrients found in peanuts have the capability of lowering the risk of diabetes, metabolic syndrome and other cardiovascular diseases.

Mushrooms
Not only does it adds grace to a lot of dishes, these are very low in calories and a rich source of selenium – a cancer fighting mineral. More to it, mushrooms are a humble source of scarcely available vitamin D, copper and potassium – nutrients essential for normal rhythmic functioning of the heart, nerve functionality and red blood cells.

Strawberries
Known for its sweet and delectable taste, strawberries are a powerhouse of vitamin C. The fibres in the fruit are great for digestion and keeps the gums and teeth in prime condition. The flavonoids help improve mental functionality and fight prostate and breast cancer.

Beans
It is one of the vegetables recognised in two food groups – proteins and vegetables. It is rich in fibre and low fat proteins. Beans are a powerhouse of poly-nutrients and nutrients. These are a great combination to stand guard against certain forms of cancers, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Also helps in building and repairing of muscles.

Pineapple
The sweet treat is a rich source of fibres, minerals, vitamin B complex, enzymes and vitamin C. All the nutrients found in pineapple are a great defence against cancer and lowers blood pressure. Also helps keeping regular bowel movement.

Pistachios
These delicious little nuts are rich in good fats, vitamin B6 and E, magnesium, potassium and fibre. The anti-oxidants in pistachios help fight free radicals. Most health experts suggest it reduces the risk of diabetes and heart diseases.

There are numerous other foods that might not have been mentioned here but are wonderful in taste and come loaded with health benefits. These foods are equally beneficial to health and should be a part of our regular diet. So, what are you waiting for… Go and get yourself a healthy tomorrow.

The author is a dietitian and founder member, Diet Clinic