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INFLAMMATION
A factor in chronic health
conditions – obesity,
diabetes, heart disease
+ cognitive decline. |
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  cientists unwrap surprising healing benefits of the cacao bean known by ancient Mayans as the ‘food of the gods.’
Antioxidant flavonoids in cocoa
(the low-fat component of the bean) lower blood pressure + decrease
cholesterol’s ability to collect in blood vessels; help protect heart health + reduce risk of stroke. Polyphenols also increase blood circulation close to the skin’s surface, and may help protect against sunburn. Other research shows that polyphenol-rich chocolate significantly improves symptoms of chronic fatigue after 8 weeks. Eating dark chocolate may also boost brain health + eyesight by improving blood flow to the brain and retina. Perhaps most surprising, cocoa is more effective than fluoride in protecting tooth enamel.
The more cocoa is processed by adding sugar and other ingredients to make chocolate products, the fewer flavonoids it contains. Hence, excess chocolate can be a source of calories and fat outweighing health benefits. Savour this health
food in moderation. H&L
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Wine + beer: high in 
Polyunsaturated oils: (safflower, soybean, corn and sunflower) lead to inflammation.
Partially hydrogenated vegetable oils: have trans-fats that reduce ‘good’ cholesterol and raise the ‘bad’ one.
Nightshade vegetables: (tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants + others) high in alkaloids; problematic to joint, nerve-muscle or digestion dysfunction.
French fries: prepared in heart-stopping, overheated polyunsaturated or hydrogenated oils, also loaded with sugar and salt.
Salmon: source of two potent anti-inflammatory omega 3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA. 
Green tea: contains anti-inflammatory flavonoids to reduce heart disease + cancer risk.
Virgin olive oil: can reduce occurrences of asthma and rheumatoid arthritis + protects heart. 
Broccoli: has phytonutrients to help rid the body of carcinogenic compounds.
Sweet potatoes: antioxidant-dense, a good source of fibre to heal inflammation.