Body Buddies

     Do you want to age imperceptibly, have younger looking skin, enjoy endless energy, and live to be 200?  Okay, maybe not the 200 part, but if you aspire to any of the other goals, these foods could help you along the way.

1. Blueberries might help long- and short-term memory.

2. The skin of red grapes contains resveratrol, an anti-inflammatory that may help protect against UV radiation and, ultimately, skin cancer.  

3. Whole grains such as barley can help reduce the accumulation of fat in the abdominal area.

4. Legumes such as black beans contain high levels of fiber, which helps speed food through the digestive system and could help prevent colon and prostate cancer.

5.  Flax seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids, which help lower cholesterol.

6. Hard cheeses such as Parmesan contain calcium, which helps protect bones from osteoporosis.

7.  Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables are full of phytonutrients that are instrumental in reducing inflammation and possibly the risk of some cancers.

8. Apples contain pectin, a soluble fiber, which can help prevent cholesterol buildup in blood vessels.

9. Oatmeal may be the perfect pre-workout fuel and will keep you going throughout the day.  

10. Treat yourself to a little peanut butter after exercising.  Its combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fat will refuel you for your next workout.

11. Not a peanut butter junkie?  Try chocolate milk for a quickly absorbed post-workout boost.  

12. Ginger contains powerful antioxidants that make it a natural inflammatory.

13. Chicken soup might actually be good for the soul and for the upper respiratory tract when you're fighting a cold.  Maybe Mom was right!

14. Cherry juice contains melatonin, a natural sleep aid.

15. Onions may help slow the growth of a bacteria responsible for ulcers, gastritis, and gastric cancer.

16. Spinach is a magnesium powerhouse and may assist with maximum muscle and nerve function.

17. If you're feeling run down, boost your iron levels with a serving of white beans.

18. Citrus may be king when it comes to Vitamin C, but a single serving of guava delivers four times the RDA.

19. Kale may be considered produce has-been, but don't forget about it altogether.  It contains high levels of Vitamin K, which helps coalguate blood and prevent hemorrahaging.

20. Lettuce may help freshen breath.  Who knew?

     So down these beauties regularly, and I'll be looking for the invitation to your 200th birthday!