The SBP Archives - Your less than frequent dose of SBP!

The Mayo Clinic unveiled a top 10 list of healthy foods we should all consume to prolong our lives and treat our bodies well. Surprising to me, I actually enjoy a number of the items mentioned. No Subway subs are mentioned, though. Here they are, in alphabetical order:

1. Apples - Lowers cholestrol and glucose levels, a good source of vitamin C.

2. Almonds - High source of fibre, riboflavin, magnesium, iron, calcium and vitamin E. Good for the heart. Also contains monounsaturated fat, which helps lower cholestrol levels.

3. Broccoli - Calcium, potassium, folate, fibre, beta-carotene, vitamin C and phytonutrients which helps prevent diabetes, heart disease and some cancers.

4. Blueberries - Good source of fibre, antioxidants and phytonutrients. Improves short-term memory and reduces cell damage linked to aging.

5. Red beans - Including small red, pinto and kidney. An excellent low-fat source of antioxidants, protein, dietary fibre, copper, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and thiamine.

6. Salmon - A terrific source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are believed to provide heart benefits. Low in saturated fat and cholesterol and is a good source of protein.

7. Spinach - High in vitamin A, and is a solid source of calcium, folate, iron, magnesium, riboflavin and vitamins B-6 and C. The plant compounds spinach contains may boost the immune system and help prevent certain types of cancer.

8. Sweet potatoes: High in beta-carotene and vitamin C, sweet potatoes are also a good source of fibre, vitamin B-6 and potassium and are fat-free and relatively low in calories.

9. Vegetable juice: Vegetable juices contain most of the same vitamins, minerals and other nutrients the source vegetables do. Tomato juice, and vegetable juices which include tomatoes, are good sources of lycopene - an antioxidant that may lower the risk of heart attack and certain cancers. Low-sodium varieties are best.

10. Wheat germ: A concentrated source of nutrients, two tablespoons provide thiamine, folate, magnesium, phosphorus, iron and zinc.