Health Power Olives are a great source of the fat-soluble antioxidant vitamin E, which helps protect fat-based areas of the body. They also have monounsaturated fats, which resist oxidative damage by free radicals much better than polyunsaturated fats. Olives also contain proactive phytonutrients including polyphenols…

Health Power Pistachios are packed with great overall nutrition including phytosterols, polyphenols, other antioxidants (some carotenoids), vitamins, minerals and fiber. They are one of the best nuts to get all of these nutrients, especially since they are low-fat. What they do have is “good fat,”…

Health Power Okra is a powerful source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. The soluble fiber, in the forms of gums and pectins, lowers total cholesterol, mainly LDL (the bad form). It also helps regulate digestion, which moderates spikes in blood sugar levels. Soluble fiber…

Health Power Nectarines have high content of carotenoids and flavonoids, including phytonutrients lutein and lycopene, both supporters of healthy vision, heart health and the fight against carcinogens. Vitamins C and A also support immune system response to unwanted bacteria, viruses and fungi. Vitamins E and…

Health Power Plums are known for a unique group of phytonutrient phenols called neochlorogenic and chlorogenic acid. These phenols help prevent oxidative damage to fats all over the body. They also disarm the free radical superoxide, which is highly reactive and can cause major damage…

Health Power Mustard greens are loaded with vitamin K, which increases bone formation and decreases its breakdown (osteoclastic processes). Especially helpful for postmenopausal women. Magnesium also an important cofactor for many enzymes, some involved with bone and cartilage building. (Others keep smooth muscles relaxed, which…

Health Power Many varieties of mint, all with similar health benefits. Peppermint adds little in vitamins and minerals, but phytonutrients give excellent remedies. Peppermint oil has phytonutrients that help relax smooth muscles (the muscles lining internal organs and blood vessels), which help control symptoms of…

Health Power Pomegranates have many vital vitamins and minerals. They also contain polyphenols, tannins, anthocyanins and ellagic acid, all highly beneficial phytonutrients that lower the risk of many diseases. All act as antioxidants, helping disarm damaging free radicals as they form. Most valuable, these phytonutrients…

Health Power Cantaloupe is rich in vitamins A, C and beta-carotene. (More than 100 percent of RDA in one cup.) Vitamin A and beta-carotene essential to maintain healthy vision. Vitamin C protects circulatory and immune systems from cell-damaging free radicals and stimulates white blood cells…

Health Power See Oregano for vitamin, mineral and fiber health benefits. Main difference between marjoram and oregano is in their essential oils, although the effects of the oils overlap. The chemical compounds in marjoram essential oil are primarily pinene, sabinene, camphor, borneol and origanol. The…