The following foods are highly nutritious, yet many people dislike them:
1. Napa Cabbage
A cup of chopped napa cabbage contains only 22 calories but is packed with nutrients. It contains sulforaphane, which can increase the body's enzyme levels. (Enzymes can prevent the production of free radicals that damage cells and can prevent cancer). Research has found that sulforaphane is the most potent inducer of enzymes among all phytochemicals.
Beets
This red vegetable is rich in folate and betaine. These two compounds work together to lower homocysteine levels, an inflammatory compound that can damage arteries and increase the risk of heart disease. Moreover, the natural pigments in beets, betacyanins, have been proven to prevent cancer.
Pomegranate
Pomegranates have a high concentration of lycopene, which is more effective than tomatoes and watermelon at preventing prostate cancer. Additionally, a cup of pomegranate juice contains 688 milligrams of potassium, 63% more than a banana. Pomegranates are also high in fiber, with 9 grams per cup.
Lettuce
Half a cup of cooked lettuce contains a large amount of lutein and zeaxanthin, with 10 milligrams per cup. These carotenoids can prevent retinal aging because they absorb light that damages the eyes.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon helps control blood sugar and lowers the risk of heart disease. In fact, studies have found that type 2 diabetics who consume 1 gram of cinnamon daily for 6 weeks experience significant reductions in blood sugar, blood lipids, and bad cholesterol.
Purslane
Purslane has the highest content of omega-3 fatty acids. Research has also found that the melatonin (an antioxidant that prevents cancer cell growth) in purslane is 10 times higher than in any other fruit or vegetable.
Pomegranate Juice
Studies have shown that drinking 2 ounces (56 grams) of pomegranate juice daily for one year can lower systolic blood pressure by 21% and significantly improve blood flow to the heart.
Goji Berries
Among all fruits, goji berries have the highest antioxidant capacity. Research has also found that the sugars in goji berries can reduce insulin resistance, thereby preventing diabetes.
Dried Plums
Dried plums contain large amounts of neochlorogenic acid and chlorogenic acid, two compounds that fight free radicals. These free radicals can cause structural damage to cells, leading to cancer.
Cucumber Seeds
Cucumber seeds are rich in magnesium. Studies have found that people with high levels of magnesium in their blood have a 40% lower risk of premature death.