An increasing number of doctors and dieticians are suggesting reverting back to the healthy eating habits to combat heart disorders. Medical science has known the disease-preventing abilities of some foods, and the quantity to be consumed has only now been determined. The California health and longevity institute recommends that exercising regularly and eating right are the two keys words for living up to a healthy 100 or even 125 years. It recommends eating 10 of the following anti-ageing super foods everyday for a long and healthy life.

It can act as a potent shield against a host of illness, including heart disease and high blood pressure, as it is a natural blood thinner, according to ayurveda it prevents arthritis and osteoporosis. It is said to block the chemical normal cells into cancerous ones.

BROCCOLI

This fiber-rich wonder vegetable contains vitamins A and C, folic acid, potassium and iron. It helps fight various forms of cancer and sustains tissue growth in the body. It contains Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, heart problems, and arthritis and can reverse signs of ageing.

EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL

Healthiest of all oils, it contains antioxidant and monounsaturated fatty acids. It protects against heart diseases by reducing LDL.

SPINACH

It is one of the most nutrient-rich foods you can eat. It contains Vitamin A, C and k as also foliate, manganese, potassium and iron it has antioxidants and vital nutrients making it a super food for the heart, brain, eyes and bones. It prevents colon cancer, osteoporosis and arthritis.

APPLES

The king of all fruits is considered a complete fruit. It is a rich source of antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols and contains Vitamin A, B C and E, calcium, potassium and iron. It prevents obesity, protects bones, lowers cholesterol and reduces risk of various forms of cancers.

SOY

Medical researcher say soybean is the best-balanced source of high protein. It has twice as much protein as pulses, groundnut, meat and fish; thrice as much as eggs and 10 times that of milk. It improves immune system, particularly in the elderly, boosting antibodies and lowering cholesterol as also preventing kidney damage.

GREEN TEA

One of the most potent of all beverages, it contains powerful flavonoids that prevent heart problems and other chronic diseases like cancer and stroke by neutralizing free radicals that damages tissues, cells and genes. Green tea is said to increase memory and alertness.

DARK CHOCOLATE

Over the past few years’ dark chocolate is finding favor with medical researchers. Studies show dark chocolate has a host of health benefits as coca contains a flavonoid called catechin, which helps prevent heart diseases and boosts the immune system.

SEEDS

Seeds of pumpkin, watermelon, sunflower, cucumber, melon, fennel, flax and cumin contain vitamins, minerals, calcium, potassium, phosphorous and Omega -3, a polyunsaturated fatty acid which plays an important role in brain function and normal growth and longevity.

WALNUTS & ALMONDS

Walnuts contain Omega-3 fatty acids, vit E, folate and fabre. They prevent plaque build-up that minimizes heart- attack risk. Almonds contain monounsaturated fats, Vit E, iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium and normal blood pressure and heart function.

PULSES & LENTILS

Pulses and lentils pack a punch of health benefits. They are rich in carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals and a great source of folic acid, potassium and zinc. They can ward off a host of diseases and ensure longevity.

Follow the Mediterranean diet

An increasing number of medical studies have begun examining the Mediterranean diet very closely after of its intriguing association with longevity. Many researchers are now concluding that this may be one of the best eating plans to adopt.

Heart disease in Mediterranean countries is among the lowest in the world. Mortality rates are lower and centurions are prevalent. Whether all this can be attributed to the Mediterranean people’s eating habits is yet to be conclusively ascertained but their diet does seem to have a definite impact on their health and longevity.

The basis of the Mediterranean diet is the same as any heart-healthy eating plan- a generous amount of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, olive oil, fish, milk and dairy products and surprisingly-red wine in moderation.

Whole grains and beans are also an important part of the diet in the 20-odd countries of the Mediterranean region. These are termed as miracle foods that are rich in protein, fiber, iron and are a major source of complex carbohydrate. All components of a Mediterranean diet are heart healthy and promote a disease free, long life.

Changing taste of medical research

These seems to be a revolutionary change occurring in the mindset of medical researchers who are now saying that eggs and pure ghee may not be the kind of villains that we’ve  imagined them to be all these years.

Another number of medical researchers are now coming to the view that eggs contains high-quality protein, vitamins A and D and are rich in chorine that protects the liver and heart. It is also a source of arotenoids that reduces risk of catracts and other age-related eye problems.

Pure ghee that has been on the banned list of most doctors because of the high amount of saturated fat, too is coming for a review. A section of the new researchers feels that while excess of pure ghee intake is clearly undesirable for adults, this does not mean it is harmful when taken in strict moderation. In fact, it may be even good for the body.