Superfood Adds Years To Life

New research suggests that including a combination of antioxidants on your plate yields a more powerful advantage than eating any one type of antioxidant-rich food.

• Spirulina (blue-green algae) Spirulina contains not only the antioxidant phycocyanin but also a bundle of protein, plus omega fatty acids. Once a mainstay food of the Aztecs. spirulina additionally works as an ibuprofen like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory. Add one teaspoon to one tablespoon of spirulina a day to smoothies or yogurt, or take it in capsule form. Some people may find that, spirulina can be over stimulating much like too much caffeine from coffee.

• Cranberries, blueberries, blackberries are all packed with antioxidants called anthocyanins and polyphenols, which also have anti-inflammatory qualities. Everyone should have at full cup of berries a day. Fresh is best but frozen are perfectly acceptable.

• Leafy greens vegetables like kale,collard greens and spinach are full of lutein, another super-antioxidant; it's been proven to protect against macular degeneration of the optic nerves and protects our vision. (See the Better Vision Category for other vision tips). Scientists recommend eating a cup of cooked kale or one to two cups of raw spinach each day.

• Almonds and walnuts These nuts are a great source of omega-6 fatty acids, as well as phytosterols (plant sterols) and vitamin F (tocopherols). People who regularly consume nuts tend to have a lowered risk of Parkinson's disease and lower cholesterol. A quarter cup of nuts a day is recommended and don't be concerned about the fat you hear about in nuts from only ¼ cups a day. The fat you get is "good" fat.
• Flaxseed contains fiber and omega-3 fatty acids that help to clear plaque and bad fats from the cardiovascular system. The fiber also protects against colon cancer. For best results grind flaxseed yourself in a coffee grinder. You can get one for under $15 from many chain stores. A tablespoon a day is good and can be added to everything from meat loaf to muffins or smoothies.

• These are the bonus super-foods you need to add a diet rich with lean meat, fish, eggs and whole grains.