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| help prevent inflammation and swelling by blocking prostaglandins that cause swelling. Researchers have found that bromelain enzymes can speed recovery from ulcers, injuries, arthritis, surgery, and other problems involving swelling and tissue damage. Pineapple enzymes also help prevent blood clots and may help improve circulation. |
| F.Y.I. |
| Pineapples |
| Be sure to eat fresh, uncooked pineapple for optimal benefits. |
| At the store, choose fruit that's large and sweet smelling; pineapple stops ripening as soon as it's picked. |
| Prunes |
| Prunes are often treated with sulfur and coated with mineral oil to keep them soft; those oils can interfere with the body's absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and can harm the lining of the bowel. Rinse nonorganic prunes in warm water before using. |
| Prunes |
| Their reputation as constipation curers is well earned: prunes contain hydroxyphenylisatin, a chemical that stimulates the bowel muscles and works as a very gentle laxative. Prunes are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which also helps prevent constipation and, in turn, helps reduce cancer (particularly colon cancer) risk. Prunes have heart-protecting value as well. Their soluble fiber helps reduce levels of plaque-producing LDL cholesterol, and their high potassium content regulates blood pressure. Prunes are rich in iron and contain good amounts of niacin, beta-carotene, and vitamin B 6, along with copper and boronmaking them essential for regular as well as irregular times. |
| Strawberries |
| These favorite berries are not only delicious but are also bursting with vitamin C: one cup contains 120 percent of the RDA for this antioxidant nutrient. They also contain ellagic acid, another antioxidant that's been shown to prevent carcinogens from attacking healthy cells and turning them cancerous. Strawberries provide iron, an anemia- and fatigue-fighting mineral that's well absorbed thanks to the berries' high C content. Plus they're packed with pectin, the soluble fiber |
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