Your diet has a profound impact on your overall health. While certain foods may trigger chronic health conditions, science has proven that certain foods can naturally help prevent and treat disease.
However, it should be noted that diet alone cannot and should not replace medicine in all circumstances. Although many illnesses can be prevented or treated by dietary and lifestyle changes, some cannot.
Here are four healing foods with powerful medicinal properties to start with:
Mushrooms
There are over 100 species of mushrooms worldwide, and all are packed with antioxidants, fiber, protein, selenium, copper, potassium, and vitamins B and D. Some compounds in mushrooms have been shown to boost your immune system, heart, and brain. Mushrooms are also known to reduce inflammation and apparently can fight hormone-related cancer.
Ginger
Among its many health benefits, ginger is an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticarcinogen. It supports the circulatory, digestive, and respiratory systems and may lower blood sugar levels and, therefore, lessen heart disease risk factors. Traditionally, it has been used for all forms of nausea and is effective in minimizing indigestion.
Turmeric
This plant that’s most common in South Asia and India might be the most potent of all the healing foods. Turmeric has significant antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, it detoxifies the liver. Additionally, it’s a natural painkiller that promotes fat loss, reduces oxidative stress, and serves as an antiseptic for wounds.
Garlic
Garlic has been used for a long time to treat a variety of illnesses and conditions. Raw or cooked, it is very versatile and may have significant antibiotic properties. The essential compound in garlic is more effective than the popular antibiotics used in fighting bacteria that cause intestinal infections. Garlic has also been linked to low risks of gastrointestinal cancers and is valued for preventing breast and lung cancer.
[RECIPE] SLOW COOKER BLACK BEAN AND TURKEY CHILI
Serves: 4
Ingredients (choose organic where possible):
- 2 pounds ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, chopped
- 2 14-ounce cans of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 bay leaves
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 15-ounce cans black beans, drained and rinsed
Directions:
- Add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and mix well.
- Place the cooker on low and cook for 5 to 6 hours.
To Your Health,
Patti
