CITRUS FRUITS HELP TO RESIST COLDS

Scientists say eating 1/2 cup of citrus fruit a day could cut ones risk of getting a cold, especially summer colds, by 85%. The reason? Citrus fruits contain bioflavonoids that strengthen sinus tissues keeping germs from penetrating. Most cold germs enter our bodies through our noses followed by the eyes.

BENEFITS OF BROCCOLI

Your mother was right; eat your vegetables.  That is especially true for green vegetables.  While all the green vegetables are good for you, broccoli is one you should eat regularly whether you like it or not!  Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamin C.  It is a good source of vitamin A and folate.  It is a significant source of protein, calcium, iron, and other minerals.  Broccoli is also rich in bioflavonoids and other plant chemicals that protect against cancer.  In fact, while other cruciferous vegetables are protective, broccoli seems to have more cancer-fighting compounds than the others.  Some of these compounds block the action of hormones that stimulate tumors; others work by inhibiting tumor growth or by boosting the action of protective enzymes.  The bioflavonoids and other antioxidants found in broccoli are substances that protect against mutation and damage from unstable molecules.

Other benefits of broccoli are that it is high in fiber and low in calories!

If you don't like broccoli, think of it as a natural protector for your body and learn to eat it for your health's sake.

BRUSSELS SPROUTS AND CANCER

Do not turn your nose up to Brussels Sprouts!  These tiny vegetables are an excellent source of Vitamin C, a good source of protein, folate, vitamin A, iron and potassium.  They also contain bioflavonoids and indoles which protect against cancer.  Try new recipes, experiment until you find a way you enjoy these healthy little vegetables.

You may wonder if something as simple as Brussels sprouts can really help protect you against cancer.  The answer is yes, especially breast, uterus, and prostate cancers.  Thus, both men and women need to have Brussels sprouts in their diets.  They have high amounts of bioflavonoids and indoles, plant chemicals that protect against cancer.  These natural chemicals help to prevent cell damage and mutation caused by unstable molecules released when your body burns oxygen.  They inhibit hormones that promote tumor growth.  The indoles are especially active against estrogen, a hormone that stimulates growth of some breast cancers!

Can Brussels Sprouts keep you from getting cancer?  Maybe not.  But why not give yourself that extra protection?  Even if cancer does or has developed, they may slow down tumor growth and the spread of the cancer.

Tip:  Frozen Brussel sprouts are fine, they retain almost all their nutrients. If you are buying fresh Brussel sprouts, buy the ones that are small, bright green, and have tightly packed leaves.  If they have yellow patches, they are aged and may have a bitter taste.  Do not overcook Brussels sprouts as that will destroy vitamin C and they will taste bitter.  Cook only until crisp tender.