Ten Foods that Help Fight Disease

There are many ways to help our bodies to have a stronger immune system, fight disease and simply feel better. One of the best things we can do is to take a serious look at the foods consumed on a regular basis and see if there is room for a healthy change. A good place to start is adding these ten foods to the diet that help the body fight disease.

The things we put into our bodies are going to have a direct impact on our health. The food and drink consumed is the fuel for the body. We can't expect the body to work properly if we don't give it what it needs. We also can't fill the body with junk food and expect optimal performance.

These foods can be a great beginning to more healthful eating. They are excellent sources of nutrition and can benefit the body in fighting disease. These are the top ten foods recommended by the Mayo Clinic to help fight disease. No food is a cure-all for any illness, but eating certain foods can be beneficial by lowering the risk for disease.

1. Whole grains can help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes and lower the risk for cardiovascular disease. Whole grains are high in fiber which help us to eat less and keeps us feeling full much longer. Just be sure the product is really whole grain. If a label just says "wheat bread" or "wheat flour," then it's not whole grain. It must read "whole wheat" or another whole grain as the first ingredient on the label.

2. Fish is an excellent source of omega-3-fatty acids which can help protect against heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids help by improving high-density lipoprotein (HDL or good) cholesterol and lowering triglycerides. They also may help reduce high blood pressure. Fish is healthier if it's baked, grilled, or broiled. Frying the fish will just increase the fat and calories. It's also helpful to take notice of the warnings for certain fish affected by mercury and other contaminants. Fish oil supplements can be beneficial for those who dislike fish.