Source of flavonoids, vitamins B and C

By eating these fruits, we take care of our health in an additional way: We enrich our diet with more flavonoids. These are the plant pigments that are responsible for the red and yellow color of fruits and vegetables and have antioxidant properties. Specifically, they prevent damage caused by free radicals, that is, harmful oxygen molecules that can cause cancer, heart disease and other serious problems. Cranberries also contain vitamins C, D, potassium and iron, while they are very low in calories, so we can easily include them in a diet menu.

Fights urinary tract infections

For centuries, cranberries have been considered a traditional medicine for urinary tract infections. However, their therapeutic value in recent years has acquired a scientific basis. A Harvard University Medical School study of elderly women who drank 1-2 glasses of cranberry juice daily for six months found that the number of bacteria in their bladders was reduced and, in addition, they were almost 60% less likely to develop urinary tract infections. region. Also, women who had a UTI and drank the juice were 75% more likely to get over it faster than those who didn’t drink. Two components are responsible for the action of cranberries on urinary tract infections, fructose and another, the identity of which has not yet been determined. These two work in a way that prevents bacteria from sticking to the walls of the bladder and urethra.

Vitamin E:

It has an important antioxidant effect protecting our body from many degenerative diseases.

Magnesium and potassium:

They contribute to lowering blood pressure. Eating a small amount of unsalted nuts can have a positive effect on hypertension.

Protein:

It is a structural component of muscles, hair and nails.

Fibre:

They are important for regulating the absorption of lipids and glucose in the blood, as well as the good functioning of the gastrointestinal system.

Calcium and phosphorus:

They contribute to the creation of healthy and strong bones and to the prevention of osteoporosis. Almonds can be a source of calcium during periods of fasting when milk and dairy products are not consumed.

Σίδηρος:

It is necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin (component of red blood cells). Almonds contain iron with low absorption. But the combination of almonds with foods containing vitamin C (eg a glass of natural orange juice) leads to an increase in absorption especially during periods of fasting when foods such as meat, liver (rich sources of iron) are not consumed.

Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids:

It is the good fats that help lower blood lipids if they replace saturated fats.

They have anti-inflammatory properties.

Sunflower seeds have a very high content of vitamin E which has the ability to neutralize the free radicals that accumulate in our body.

They reduce cholesterol.

Sunflower seeds contain phytosterols which, according to numerous studies, tend to reduce the levels of “bad” cholesterol in our body.

They relax our nerves.

In particular, sunflower seeds are a very good source of magnesium. Magnesium helps control nerve and muscle tone and its deficiency is associated with overactivity of our nerves causing muscle spasms, migraines, muscle cramps, nervousness and fatigue.

They protect our heart.

The vitamin E present in sunflower seeds prevents the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases.

They detoxify us.

The high content of sunflower seeds in antioxidants such as vitamin E, polyphenols and selenium helps to remove toxic substances that accumulate (oxidative stress) in our body every day.

They protect us from various forms of cancer.

Sunflower seeds are a good source of selenium which is a trace element that is absolutely necessary to maintain our health. In particular, various scientific studies have shown that selenium intake is associated with a reduced risk of cancer, as selenium participates in various mechanisms that protect against the mutation of our genetic material.

These foods are called superfoods and their consumption ensures the full coverage of an organism’s needs, without requiring huge and indigestible meals.

But let’s talk about some of these superfoods such as Cranberries, Raspberries, Blueberries, and Horsetail.

Cranberries

Cranberry, which is a fruit extremely rich in vitamin C, polyphenols and antioxidants. Known since the 1500s, from the time of the North American Indians, cranberry provides increased protection against infections and more – and this is because it neutralizes the harmful oxygen free radicals produced in our body.

Its anti-cancer effect protects, among other things, from breast cancer, while with its regenerative and nourishing properties it revitalizes the skin and gives it shine and beauty. Preventing stomach ulcers and dental plaque are just a few examples of the valuable role cranberry can play in maintaining our health. It also has proven beneficial properties in urinary, respiratory, cardiovascular and oral hygiene.

Raspberry

Their taste is special and strong, leaving a sweet and sour feeling while they have a very high nutritional value. They are an excellent source of phytochemicals such as anthocyanins, phenols, tannins and lignates, while their concentration in hellic acid and pelargonium is quite high.

The variety of phytochemicals contained in raspberries is remarkable since such a diversity is found in very few fruits. That is why they are considered to have a very strong antioxidant effect.

Ellagic acid, which, as mentioned above, is abundant in raspberries, is one of the substances that has a proven antioxidant effect. Specifically, it is said to inhibit the action of enzymes that promote inflammation and help, at least in studies done on mice, to reduce peptic ulcers and other inflammation of the digestive tract.

Blueberries

It is rich in vitamins A, C, E, B-carotene, trace elements, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus and plant fibers and can contribute to: prolonging life, renewing the body, preventing allergies, myocardial infarction, arteriosclerosis and maintaining of health and youth.

In more detail, research proves that blueberries have antioxidant and anti-aging properties, they contribute to the prevention of cancer, to normal heart function, (they reduce the concentration of “bad” cholesterol), to normal brain function, (they protect against stroke), to protection of the urinary system (reduce bacteria that cause infections) and vision (improve night vision and prevent eye fatigue).

Hippophaes

In the shape of a grape pomace, a superfood with a slightly acidic taste. Unique combination of unsaturated fatty acids (ω3, ω6, ω7, ω9). A powerful antioxidant, it acts preventively against aging, cardiovascular diseases and cancer.

Strongly rich in vitamin C and E. It strengthens the immune system, regulates the metabolism and gives stimulation and energy while helping the rapid recovery and healing of wounds.

It is therefore worth adding superfoods to your diet both for their amazing taste and for the multiple benefits they bring to your health!

Then chop the peanuts in the food processor without melting them and add them together with the pine nuts to the mixture of vegetables that we have placed in a bowl.

Mix with a wooden spoon, cover the bowl with cling film and place in the fridge.

Before serving to the table, optionally add a mixture of mayonnaise, a teaspoon of mustard and a teaspoon of sweet ketchup and place in a salad bowl (preferably glass) and garnish with coarsely chopped pieces of pistachios.

Otherwise, add 2-3 spoons of olive oil with 2-3 drops of balsamic vinegar.

Ingredients

1/2 small white cabbage

1/2 small red cabbage

1 green salad

1 curly red salad

1/2 small cauliflower

1/2 small red broccoli

3-4 stalks of celery

5-6 sprigs of parsley

2-3 carrots

1-2 cloves of garlic

100 gr. pistachios

50 gr. cashew nuts

50 gr. cone