British nutrition authority Juliette Kale scoured 15 countries around the globe for different health foods, most of which are staple foods for the local people. We can encounter these foods in our daily lives; there's no need to travel overseas to eat them. Among them, fruits and vegetables like bananas, blueberries, and tomatoes are well-known for their health benefits, but others, such as red chili peppers and curry powder, also have their advantages.
According to a report in the British Mirror, Kale selected healthy foods from around the world. Curry powder, a common food for Indians, has multiple benefits and stands up to scientific scrutiny. The latest research shows that the curcumin in curry powder not only has anti-cancer effects but can also relieve rheumatoid arthritis and lower cholesterol. Another Indian spice, ginger, can increase blood circulation and aid digestion.
The red chili peppers loved by Mexicans can boost metabolism, thus aiding in weight loss. Research indicates that within 3 hours of eating red chili peppers, a person's metabolic rate can increase by as much as 50%. As for foods that seem to cause weight gain, like pasta, they can actually be very healthy if cooked properly. Kale explains that pasta should not be overcooked, otherwise its glycemic index will rise. The correct way to cook it is to boil it until it is *al dente*, with a firm texture,才算合格. World's 15 Healthiest Foods
Blueberries (Canada): Contain polyphenols, antioxidants that can combat molecules that cause wrinkles.
Red Wine and Garlic (France): Garlic has been proven to lower cholesterol, while red wine contains antioxidant flavonoids.
Avocado and Red Chili Peppers (Mexico): Avocados are rich in magnesium and vitamin E, while red chili peppers can boost metabolism.
Oats (UK): Increase serotonin levels in the brain, improving mood and fighting depression.
Salmon, Mackerel, and Sardines (Norway): Rich in protein, they help the body increase collagen, making skin smooth and elastic.
Pasta (Italy): It is actually a weight-loss food because it has a low glycemic index, which stabilizes blood sugar levels.
Olive Oil (Greece): Contains large amounts of "monounsaturated fats," which can reduce the risk of heart disease.
Rice (China): Rice is rich in vitamin B, which enhances brain function.
Kiwi (New Zealand): Rich in vitamin C; one kiwi a day provides enough vitamin C.
Spices (India): Turmeric in curry contains antioxidants, and research shows it can fight cancers like leukemia.
Tomatoes (Spain): Contain abundant carotene, which can be converted into vitamin A, and lycopene, which helps prevent cancer.
Chickpeas (Egypt): Contain soluble fiber, calcium, iron, and magnesium, which can help alleviate premenstrual symptoms.
Soybeans (Japan): Can reduce the risk of heart disease, lower cholesterol levels, and help prevent cancer.