HOUSTON – We’ve all heard the phrase, “you are what you eat.” More and more research is revealing there’s truth to that statement.
While junk foods might make you feel like junk, some health foods have surprising benefits that might make you feel good.
Almonds
A study published in nutrition reviews found they help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
Berries
“Blackberries, blueberries -- these are all types of fruits that contain anthocyanin," said Vasanti Malik, Ph.D. and a research scientist at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
A Harvard study found older adults who eat lots of blueberries and strawberries are less likely to suffer from cognitive decline.
Dark Chocolate
It contains ingredients that help menstrual cramps.
Avocados
Avocados can be useful in treating high blood pressure and researchers found nutrients in the fruit were also able to stop oral cancer cells from growing.
Green tea
One study found those who drank five cups a day were 20 percent less likely to get stressed than those who had less than one cup.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms contain two antioxidants that scientists say could boost your health and fight aging.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is being studied as a way to boost metabolism and help type-two diabetes.
Oily fish, like salmon
Fish is another food with serious health benefits. It’s rich in vitamins A and D and has been shown to help symptoms of arthritis. Fish oil supplements, combined with a low-fat diet, have also been found to slow prostate cancer progression.