simply steamed. Aside from the difference in phenols in dark chocolate prevent oxida-
taste, this light touch means that green tea
tion of LDL cholesterol (which, along with
keeps its antioxidant
inflammation, is the
power, and more of its
real reason that choles-
polyphenolic strength.
terol is a health issue),
Pure,
dark
chocolate
–
without
The chief compo-
and even reduce stress
extra ingredients and calories in the brain when
nent in green tea
considered most
like caramel or marshmallow – participants are asked
responsible for its
to solve complex prob-
provides
a
wealth
of
benefits
amazing abilities is
lems.
Epigallocatechin-3-gal-
Like tea, choc-
late, better known as “EGCG”.
olate retains its healthiest components
EGCG reduces inflammation, protects
when it is the least processed. Look for
the body from oxidative stress, and slows
chocolate that is at least 70% cacao. It will
cancer progression by inhibiting an enzyme have a distinctively different flavor than
that cancer cells need for tumor growth.
the over-sweetened milk chocolate variety
If you haven’t enjoyed tea as part
that we all grew up with, but its rich flavor
of your daily regimen, you may want to
means that smaller amounts of chocolate
consider it: recent research shows that green will satisfy more, too.
tea reduces the risk of high blood pressure
by 50%, the risk of dying from stroke by
6. ALMONDS
40-60%, and the risk of dying from heart
We always think of almonds as nuts,
attack by 20 to 30%.
when in fact they are really the seeds (or
“drupes”) from the fruit of the almond
5. CHOCOL ATE
tree. Almonds are a must for anyone who
The fact that I consider chocolate one
wants to lose weight, balance cholesterol
of the Top Ten Best foods may come as a
levels, and reduce their risk of heart disease.
happy surprise. The fact is that pure, dark
They are loaded with folate, plant sterols,
chocolate – without extra ingredients and
fiber, vitamin E and magnesium. And while
calories like caramel or marshmallow –
almonds do contain fat, 78% of the calories
provides a wealth of benefits.
come from healthy, monounsaturated fats
The flavonoid compounds in dark choc- that help build strong cells and keep arteries
olate are strong antioxidants and are anti-in- flexible.
flammatory. They lower blood pressure,
Almonds also lower homocysteine levels
improve blood flow to the brain and heart,
in the body. Homocysteine is an amino acid
and help prevent the formation of blood
that is associated with damage to blood
clots. According to recent research, the poly- vessel walls, increased cholesterol oxidation
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