Almonds
Almonds date back to the Old Testament and they are part of the
cherry, plum and peach family. Almonds are a good source of
vegetable protein and they are highly suitable for vegetarians and
vegans. They are considered to decrease coronary heart disease
risk factors. They help lower the bad
cholesterol, LDL. They have a high content of minerals, magnesium,
potassium, phosphorous and calcium.
Apples
A medium apple has about 80 calories. 25% of an apple's volume is
air - that is why they float. Apples cleanse and purify the blood and the liver. They are
a good source of vitamin C and fibre. Remember your Gran's old
saying "An apple a day keeps the doctor away". Well it's
pretty good advice. Remember to eat the skin if you want to maximize the fibre. Eating an apple decreases the chances of
tooth cavities by cleaning the teeth and massaging the gums.
Apricots
Apricots were first found growing wild in China. They have
been around for 4,000 years. Apricots are rich in beta carotene, minerals and vitamin A plus
they are a good source of fibre.
Avocados
Avocados provide more than 25 essential nutrients, including
fibre, potassium, Vitamin E, B-vitamins folic acid and lutein. The
phytochemicals they contain are naturally occurring chemical
compounds found in foods that may prevent disease and preserve good
health. Vit. E is a powerful anti oxidant that is known to fight
cancer, to slow aging and to protect against heart disease .
Lutein is believed to protect against prostate cancer and eye
disease such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Avocados contain
60% more potassium than bananas contain. They are high in fat
but they contain mono unsaturated fats which are good for the heart.
Because they are high in fat they contain more calories than other
fruits and vegetables do. One avocado contains about 300
calories. Avocadoes are native to central America and it is believed
the Aztecs regarded them as a sexual stimulant.
Bananas
Bananas are the largest member of the herb family. Banana plants
are the largest plants on earth without a woody stem. They are
thought to have originated in Malaysia but the word "banana" is
African. They are rich in dietary fibre and potassium. Ripe
bananas soothe the stomach. They have a high starch content
which means they give us energy and they also work well as
laxatives. They are the world's most popular fruit. Australia
neither imports or exports bananas.
Beans
A good source of protein and fibre. They also contain
vitamin C, iron, thiamine, folate, phosphorus and potassium.
They have been shown to aid in reducing cholesterol. Most
beans contain only 2-3%fat. Beans were among the first cultivated
crops in the world. Evidence has shown that beans were
cultivated as far back as 7000 BC in Peru and Mexico. When they are
combined with nuts, seeds or grains, they form a complete high-fiber
vegetable protein. Dried beans are a staple food in many
countries of the world.
Beetroot
Beetroot is regarded as a general tonic. It can help with
blood disorders, particularly anaemia. It has a high fibre
content so is good for those suffering constipation. Beetroot
contains calcium, iron and vitamins A and C.
Blackberries
There is evidence that blackberries were
eaten in Britain in Neolithic times and were surrounded by
superstitions. blackberry leaf was once used as a hair dye to "maketh
the hair black". They are one of the best low fat sources of
vitamin E. They are used to ease stomach complaints and treat
menstrual cramps.
Blackcurrants
Black, red and white currants were
cultivated in the sixteenth century in Holland, Denmark and around
the Baltic Sea. They contain three times as much vitamin C as
oranges. A tea made from dried blackcurrant leaves is
used to treat arthritis, urinary problems, diarrhoea, stomach
upsets, bleeding gums and coughs.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a member of the cruciferous family. Studies
have shown that this family of foods is effective in fighting
cancers, most particularly lung colon and breast. Studies have
shown there are sulphur compounds in broccoli that stimulate the
production of anti-cancer enzymes. Raw broccoli contains as much
calcium as milk.
Cabbage
Cabbage is regarded as a "wonder" vegetable because it has so
many good qualities. Raw and juiced cabbage has anti-viral and
ant-bacterial properties. It is considered to speed up the
metabolism of oestrogen in women and this may protect against cancer
of the breast and womb. Studies have shown that men can reduce
their likelihood of getting colon cancer by two-thirds if they eat
cabbage more than once a week.
Capsicums (Peppers)
Capsicums are from the nightshade family. They originated
in Central and South America. They come in an amazing array of
colours from bright red, yellows, oranges, purples and greens.
Capsicums can be eaten in their raw form or they can be cooked.
They range from very mild spiciness to extremely hot! Most
species of capsicums contain capsaicin which is the chemical that
causes the hot burning sensation when they are eaten. they are good
sources of vitamin C.
Carrots
Carrots are native to Afghanistan. They used to have a yellow flesh
and a purple exterior. Carrots were first grown as a medicine
and not a food. Just one carrot supplies enough vitamin A for an entire day.
In fact, they have the highest Vitamin A content of any vegetable. Carrots have high levels of the anti-oxidant beta carotene which is
reputed to help fight cancer and may reduce the risk of prostate
cancer in men.
Cashews
Cashews are good source of
potassium, B vitamins and folate. They contain magnesium, copper,
selenium and phosphorous. They are also known as Wilberts.
Cashews are native to the Americas but they are now grown all over
tropical Asia and Africa. India is the largest producer and
processor of cashews.
Other Food Facts:
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