help regulate blood-sugar response, reducing spikes after
consuming sugar – and even though they have a high sugar
content, their fiber content helps put strawberries low on
the glycemic index. And studies indicate strawberries may
also reduce the risk of heart attacks from their anthocya-
nins, which improve blood vessel function and lower blood
pressure.
• Broccoli: We’d really be remiss if we didn’t include brocco-
li on this list. Your grandma was right; broccoli is good for
you. Research has shown that it’s beneficial to your heart
and packed with fiber, so it helps keep your digestive tract
healthy. It packs an abundance of phytonutrients in each
serving, including sulforaphane, which is being studied as a
possible anti-cancer agent.
• Peaches: This summertime favorite is a good source of vita-
mins A and C, B6, niacin and folate. Peaches are also rich in
potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure,
as well as preventing kidney stones and bone loss. They
are high in fiber, too, which aids in both digestive and co-
lon health. One medium peach contains two grams of fiber,
most of it the soluble fiber shown to improve cholesterol
levels. Low in calories and glycemic index, peaches are also
a good source of phytonutrients, and they may even help
fight cancer.
• Dark leafy greens: Because of their high content of antiox-
idants, green leafy vegetables may be one of the best can-
cer-preventing foods. Salad greens, kale and spinach are
rich in vitamins A, C, E and K, also containing carotenoids –
antioxidants that protect cells and play roles in blocking the
early stages of cancer. They also contain significant levels
of fiber, iron, magnesium, potassium and calcium. Studies
show that eating two to three servings of green leafy vege-
tables per week may lower the risk of stomach, breast and
skin cancer. These same antioxidants have also been proven
to decrease the risk of heart disease.
This summer, enjoy all the fresh locally grown fruits and veg-
gies – and reap the health rewards! d
For an appointment with a Deborah specialist or more informa-
tion about how Deborah Heart and Lung Center’s leading-edge
technologies can improve your quality of life, call 800-555-1990
or request info/an appointment by visiting www.demanddebo-
rah.org.
www.njcopsmagazine.com
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