On average, apples contain more an abundant amount of antioxidants which can help to prevent cancer. A matter of fact, an apple contains more antioxidants than a 1500 mg dose of vitamin C. Apples also contain a combination of phytochemicals which are thought to assist antioxidant activity and anti cancer activity. It is these antioxidants that fight the activities of particles known as free radicals which can cause damage to cells. Free radicals are thought to be a contributory factor to the development of conditions such as some forms of cancer. They are also thought to contribute to the aging process. It is further known that apple phytonutrients help to combat the effects of bad LDL cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is bad cholesterol, and preventing the effects of such LDL’s will help prevent heart disease. Furthermore, apples contain a substance called pectin, which is a soluble fiber that helps with the digestive process. Because apples are high in fiber, they help avoid constipation as well as suppress appetite. Your daily apple contains the same amount of dietary fiber as a bowl of breakfast bran cereal. Another bonus is that apples contain complex carbohydrates which give you a more sustained energy. They even contain an essential trace element called boron which helps with bone density and can therefore help to prevent or to decrease the effects of osteoporosis. Lastly, studies indicate that apples are considered to have mild antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and estrogenic traits.

Apricots contain high minerals, which makes them helpful in overcoming disorders like anemia, tuberculosis, asthma, bronchitis, etc. The high copper and iron content in apricots increases the hemoglobin in the blood. The vitamin A content in apricots is high and helps in reducing skin disorders like pimples and zits. Vitamin A also aids in improving eye-sight. Like tomatoes, apricots contain lycopene, which helps in the prevention of cancer and also protects the body from high cholesterol, thereby preventing heart disease. The consumption of apricots also helps in removing gallstones and also destroys intestinal worms. It also aids in digestion, since it reacts as an alkaline, breaking down food particles. The fruit is considered to be a laxative and consuming it regularly will help you get rid of constipation. It is very helpful in getting rid of the waste in the body, due to its high fiber content. It is also believed that apricots shield Alzheimer’s disease all while slowing the aging process.

The Artichoke is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich vegetable. One medium artichoke is an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C, and a good source of folate and magnesium. Artichokes also are a great source of powerful disease-fighting antioxidants. They are very low in saturated fat and cholesterol. They are also a good source of niacin, vitamin B6, iron and phosphorus, and a very good source of vitamin K, folate, copper and manganese.

Arugula is a dark leafy green in the cruciferous family of vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, bok choy, and brussel sprouts. Research has linked a diet high in cruciferous vegetables as a means of disease prevention, especially cancer. Arugula is a potent anti-cancer food. Arugula contains many natural chemicals which stimulate enzymes that help the body cleanse itself of toxins and potential carcinogens. Arugula contains very powerful antioxidants such as carotenes that protect against sun damage, heart disease, and cancer. They also improve communication between cells, something that may play a large role in the well-being of cellular function. Arugula provides a readily absorbable source of calcium, iron, manganese, copper, and potassium. It is also a good source of vitamins A, C, K, and folic acid. Arugula is also a wonderful source of chlorophyll which cleanses and energizes the blood. It helps bring large amounts of oxygen to all parts of the body, which deters viruses and harmful bacteria. Chlorophyll also supports healthy skin, and limits the potential of carcinogens.

Asparagus has some healing traits similar to Arugula. It is high in fiber (which is a remedy for constipation problems), protein, antioxidants and many vitamins, especially A, K, B1, B2, C and tryptophan (an essential amino acid). Vitamin A promotes good vision and a strong immune system. Vitamin C is a powerful anti- inflammatory and antioxidant that may prevent cancer. Vitamin K strengthens bones and your circulatory system. Vitamin B1 (thiamin) helps maintain a normal metabolism and helps burn carbohydrates. Vitamin B2 has many functions in common with the other members of the B complex family. These include support of the immune and nervous systems and formation of healthy red blood cells. Riboflavin provides essential factors for the production of cellular enzymes that turn proteins, fats, and carbohydrates into energy. It also participates in cell reproduction, and keeps skin, hair, nails, eyes, and mucous membranes healthy. Asparagus also contains the healthy bacteria, inulin, which prevents the bad bacteria from entering your intestines. Asparagus is a great source of the antioxidant glutathione, which helps prevent cancer. It also yields a superb dose of folic acid which benefits our cardiovascular system as well as reduces menstrual cramps for women. Consuming asparagus regularly may also help improve dry skin, increase energy levels, prevent kidney stones and possibly enhance your libido. Asparagus has natural diuretic effects that can reduce the chances of getting bladder and urinary tract infections, and can also help balance insulin levels, which supports the prevention of diabetes.

Avocado, a fruit, is loaded with essential fatty acids. They contribute nearly 20 vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. These phytonutrients help prevent many chronic diseases. Avocados contain 81 micrograms of the carotenoid lutein, which in some studies suggests that they may help maintain healthy eyes. They also benefit circulation, lower cholesterol, and dilates blood vessels. Its main fat, monounsaturated oleic acid (also concentrated in olive oil), acts as an antioxidant to block artery-destroying toxicity of bad-type LDL cholesterol. Avocados contain some of the richest sources of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant, shown to block thirty different carcinogens and to block proliferation of AIDS virus in test tube experiments.

Bananas are a quick fix for flagging energy levels. They contain three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose - combined with fiber, a banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy. Research has proved that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes. But energy isn't the only way a banana can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions making it a must to add to your daily diet. Bananas are high in iron which stimulates the production of hemoglobin in the blood which helps in cases of anemia. They also are extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it the perfect food for helping to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the bananas ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke. Other studies reveal that by eating bananas may boost brain power. There is evidence that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert. Bananas are high in fiber which can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives. Bananas also contain trypotophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier. They also have a natural antacid effect in the body so if you suffer from heart-burn, try eating a banana for soothing relief. Bananas are loaded withB vitamins that help calm the nervous system. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood. Bananas are also used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chroniculcer cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach. Bananas are highly known for their potassium which is vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water-balance. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the complex carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. Maybe we should consider saying, "A Banana a day keeps the doctor away!"

Barley has been used for human consumption for the longest time. This has been known as a “heart medicine” in the Middle East for decades. The intake of barley is very likely to help you maintain your overall health in the long term. These whole grains are rich in protein, vitamins, minerals and amino acids essential for our health. More importantly, barley is one of the richest sources of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Insoluble fiber aids in proper excretion of waste products in the body, while soluble fiber (known as beta glucan) mixes with liquid, binds to fatty substances and allows them to leave the body. Barley is also seen to be rich in tocotrienols, which is an antioxidant which helps lessen risk for contracting heart disease and cholesterol problems.

Beans are a great source of nutrients and a wonderful addition to a healthy diet. Beans are a type of legume, including navy, black, kidney, pinto, soy beans, as well as peas and lentils. Beans are high in protein. Generally, a quarter cup of any type of legume has roughly the same amount of protein as an ounce of meat. Beans are also well known for their chlorestoral lowering characteristics. One- half cup of cooked beans daily redues chlorestoral an avergae of 10 perecent. Studies also reveals that beans help to prevent diseases like cancer, help maintain healthy weight, and have a good amount of fiber. Beans have been shown in various studies to lower the risk of health conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. They have beneficial phytochemicals as well as antioxidant properties. In general, darker colored beans, such as those red and black in color, have stronger antioxidant properties.

Beets belong to the same family as chard and spinach. Beet leaves are rich in chlorophyll but can be a bit bitter. However, the greens have a higher nutritional value than its roots. Both beet root and beet greens are very powerful cleansers and builders of the blood. Beets are loaded with vitamins A, B1, B2, B6 and C. The greens have a higher content of iron compared to spinach. They are also an excellent source of calcium, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, sodium and iron. While the sweet beet root has some of the minerals in its greens to a lesser degree, it is also a remarkable source of chlorine, folic acid, iodine, manganese, organic sodium, potassium, fiber and carbohydrates in the form of natural digestible sugars. Beets are high in iron which regenerates and reactivates the red blood cells and supplies fresh oxygen to the body. The copper content in beets help make the iron more available to the body. A great blood builder. Beets also contain Betaine, an amino acid in beet root, which has significant anti- cancer properties. Studies show that beet consumption inhibits the formation of cancer-causing compounds and is protective against colon or stomach cancer. The cellulose content of beets helps to ease bowel movements. Regular consumption of beets can help relieve chronic constipation.

Bell peppers can be found in a rainbow of colors and can vary in flavor. The variety of the pepper plant and the stage of the ripeness determine the flavor and color of each pepper. For example, a red bell pepper is simply a mature green bell pepper. As a bell pepper ages, its flavor becomes sweeter and milder. Red bell peppers contain eleven times more beta carotene and 4 times more Vitamin C than green bell peppers. These peppers are consider natural remedies to help fight off colds, asthma, bronchitis, respiratory infections, cataracts, macular degeneration, angina, atherosclerosis and cancer.

Blackberries are ranked fourth in tests to identify the most antioxidant rich fruits and vegetables. Because they are loaded with antioxidants, they help the body in fighting free radicals and thus, avoid various types of cancer. They also have an amount of tannin which has antiseptic properties that makes them good for tightening tissues as well as treating minor bleeding. Research shows that eating blackberries is beneficial for those suffering from diarrhea and intestinal inflammation. They have been used to alleviate hemorrhoids. Blackberries have also been known to offset mild infections, like sore throats and mouth irritations. Blackberries have been found to have anti-bacterial properties and can help cleanse the blood. Eating blackberries regularly is believed to delay the process of aging.

Blueberries are rich in Vitamins A, C, E and beta-carotene as well as rich in the minerals potassium, manganese, and magnesium. They are very high in fiber and low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium. Blueberries provide the most health-protecting antioxidants, those valuable elements which prevent cancer- causing cell damage and may limit the changes wrought by age related diseases. Antioxidants help to stop the production of free radicals. Free radicals are groups of atoms that impair the cells and the immune system which leads to disease. Anti-oxidants bind the free electrons in free radicals. They also act as an unusual type of antibiotic by blocking attachment of bacteria that cause urinary tract infections. Anthocyanins, which are antioxidants, create the blue color in blueberries. These antioxidants are known to reduce heart disease and cancer in humans. They are found throughout the plant world, but blueberries are the highest of any fruit or vegetable. This substance is believed to combat E. Coli. Chlorogenic acid is another antioxidant which may also slow the release of glucose into the bloodstream after a meal. Chlorogenic acid's antioxidant properties may help fight damaging free radicals. Blueberries also contain Ellagic acid which appears to bind cancer-causing body chemicals, rendering them inactive. Blueberries also contain chemicals that curb diarrhea. Blueberries are also known for their antiviral activity and they are high in natural aspirin.

Bok choy is a vegetable that resembles celery although it is actually a member of the cabbage family. It has thick, white stalks and dark green leaves that have a round shape. Another reason that bok choy is becoming popular to use, besides its similarity to cabbage, is because of its nutritional value. Bok choy is high in fiber which is ideal roughage to aid digestion. Bok choy is a good source of calcium. It is also low in sodium and high in vitamins C and A. Bok choy also contain glucosinolates, which may prevent cancer.

Broccoli is jam-packed with vitamins and minerals. On the vitamin side, it contains Vitamins B1 (Thiamin), B2 (Riboflavin), B3 (Niacin), B5 (Pantothenic acid), B6, B9 (Folate), Vitamin C and A. Further antioxidants include quercetin, glutathione, beta carotene, indoles, lutein, glucarate, and sulforaphane. When it comes to minerals, healthy broccoli contains: calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc. These vitamins and minerals aren't just found in tiny trace amounts either. Broccoli actually contains more Vitamin C than many citrus fruits, it has more calcium than an entire glass of milk and it is a richer source of fiber than whole wheat bread. The real potent nutritional value of broccoli lies in substances called isothiocyanates which are a class of very potent anti-carcinogens. Broccoli is extremely high in anti-cancer activity, particularly against lung, colon, stomach and breast cancers. Like other cruciferous vegetables, it speeds up the removal of estrogen from the body, helping suppress breast cancer. Broccoli is rich in cholesterol-reducing fiber and has antiviral and ant-ulcer benefits. Broccoli also contains a super source of chromium that helps regulate insulin and blood sugar.

Brussels sprouts are from the cruciferous family and possesses the same healing powers as broccoli and cabbage. Brussels sprouts are a very good source of many essential vitamins, carotenoids, fiber, and folate. They are anti-cancerous, estrogenic and packed with many antioxidants and indoles.

Cabbage has been revered in ancient Rome as a cancer cure. Cabbage gives you lots of vitamin C, and also vitamin E, A, B, minerals and fibers. Cabbage is really good for people suffering of anemia. If you eat it raw you will get lots of vitamin C and vitamin E. Cabbage also contains numerous anticancer and antioxidant compounds. Cabbage is a vegetable that helps your digestion, increases your antibodies. It also can speeds up the curing of an ulcer. Cabbage also reduces the risk of eye cataract, colon, stomach and lung cancer, and also reduces the risk of heart problems. It also speeds up estrogen metabolism which is thought to help block breast cancer and suppress growth of polyps, a prelude to colon cancer. Research reveals that eating cabbage more than once a week cuts men’s colon cancer odd 66 percent. Raw cabbage can help you get rid of constipation because the dietary fibers it contains help clean out the stomach, intestines and basically the whole digestive system. Red cabbage has a greater nutritional value than the green cabbage. Red cabbage has more antioxidants and a big quantity of vitamin C (5 times more vitamin C than green cabbage). The components of red cabbage greater reduce the risk of breast cancer because of their effect on estrogen.

Cantaloupe is a supreme source of vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and beta- carotene. Both vitamin A and beta-carotene are important vision nutrients which also help to reduce the risk of developing cataracts. Beta-carotene has also been the subject of extensive research in relationship to cancer prevention and prevention of oxygen-based damage to cells. While beta-carotene and vitamin A are fat-soluble antioxidants, vitamin C functions as an antioxidant in the water- soluble areas of the body. So, between its beta-carotene and vitamin C content, cantaloupe has all areas covered against damage from oxygen free radicals. In addition to its antioxidant activity, vitamin C is critical for good immune function. vitamin C stimulates white cells to fight infection, directly kills many bacteria and viruses, and regenerates vitamin E after it has been inactivated by disarming free radicals. As mentioned above, cantaloupe is a great source of potassium and a good source of vitamin B6, dietary fiber, folate, and niacin (vitamin B3). The combination of all these B complex vitamins along with the fiber found in cantaloupe make it an exceptionally good fruit for supporting energy production through good carbohydrate metabolism and blood sugar stability. These B complex vitamins are required in our cells for processing carbohydrates (including sugars), and cantaloupe's fiber helps ensure cantaloupe's sugars are delivered into the bloodstream gradually, keeping blood sugar on an even keel.

Carrots are a powerful anticancer, artery-protecting, immune-boosting, infection- fighting antioxidant with excellent protective powers. They are loaded with beta carotene, which is why they appear orange. Carrots are very low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Carrots are also a good source of thiamine, niacin, vitamin B6, folate and manganese, and a very good source of dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K and potassium. Carrots are also good at fighting inflammation in the body because they contain these antioxidants and fiber. The large amount of vitamin B present in carrots is especially good at regulating the body's circulation by ensuring that the heart and lungs have nutrients available to do their job efficiently. Additionally, carrots also help lower high blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Potash succinate, a nutrient found in carrots, is said to have anti-hypertensive properties, making it useful for those with high blood pressure. This nutrient helps dilate blood vessels and thereby lowers blood pressure. A carrot a day reduced the stroke rates in women by 68 percent. Carrots are high in soluble fiber depresses blood cholesterol as well as promotes regularity.

Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable that contains many of the same cancer- fighting, hormone-regulating compounds as its cousins, broccoli and cabbage. Cauliflower is an excellent source of two phytonutrients, sulforaphane and indole- 3-carbinol (I3C). Together, these nutrients (found in all cruciferous vegetables) help prevent cancer in two ways. They prevent enzymes from activating cancer-causing agents in the body, and they increase the body's production of enzymes that clean toxins and carcinogens out of the system before they can damage cells. Also, IC3 is a particularly powerful anti-tumor agent, which reduces levels of hormones that may stimulate cellular changes (and, ultimately, tumor growth) in cells of the breasts and prostate. Cauliflower may also help decrease cholesterol, particularly LDL, or bad, cholesterol in two ways. First, it is an excellent source of dietary fiber. Second, IC3 appears to reduce the liver cells' production of apolipoproteinB-100 (apoB) by over 50 percent. ApoB is the main transporter, or carrier, of LDL cholesterol to tissues. In addition, folate-rich vegetables, such as cauliflower, are considered heart-protective because folate helps to lower the amount of circulating homocysteine, an amino acid linked to cardiovascular disease, in the bloodstream.

Celery is a traditional Vietnamese remedy for high blood pressure. Two to four sticks a day are recommended dosage needed to take full advantage of this healing power. Celery is also acts as a mild diuretic. Celery contains several different families of anticancer compounds, such as phthalides, coumarin, and polyacetylenes, that detoxify carcinogens, especially cigarette smoke. Coumarin helps prevent cancer and phthalides relax muscles around the arteries and help lower blood pressure. Celery also contains vitamin C, which helps the immune system fight and prevent illness, and is also a good source of potassium and magnesium.

Cherries are an excellent source of potassium and manganese. It is a very good source of magnesium and copper. Cherries also contain a nice dose of iron and phosphorous, as well as calcium, but only in trace amounts. Cherries yield an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K and are a very good source of thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B6 and pantothenic acid. They also contain traces of niacin, folate and vitamin A. Cherries are a good source of dietary fiber. Cherries can reduce the pain of arthritis, gout and headaches. Cherries contain anthocyanin, a red pigment, which acts as an antioxidant. The plant pigment along with vitamin C strengthens collagen. Cherries contain melatonin, which is important for the function of the immune system. Cherries are used as a sedative in nausea and vomiting. They are also beneficial in treating bronchitis, asthma and chronic diarrhea. It has been found that cherries can reduce the risk of heart attack and the risk of cancer.