by Ravi65

Created on: July 15, 2008

I would not agree that Vegetarians are unhealthy, rather I would say it is the most healthiest diet. Before putting my points across, I would like to discuss what is health means....per wikepedia, Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. So mere absence of disease or infirmity is not that we expect from our food.

Here are some proof for maintaining better physical health:-

1. Anti-oxidants food items like green tea and apple which is a carbohydrate with a low glycaemic index (GI)are good for even people with chronic disease like diabetes.

2. The tomato sauce covering baked beans is a good source of lycopene, another powerful antioxidant shown to help prevent heart diseases and prostate cancer.The insoluble fiber in baked beans is not digested but moves into the large intestine, or colon, where bacteria act on it and produce short-chain fatty acids.These fatty acids are thought to nourish the colon lining and protect it from carcinogenic (cancer-causing) invaders.

3. Broccoli contain antioxidants including vitamin C and it is particularly good source of folate (naturally occurring folic acid). Increasing your intake of folic acid is thought to be of major benefit in preventing heart disease. Moreover, it contains a anti-oxidant called lutein, which delays the age related macular degeneration.

4. Olive oil, which is rich in antioxidants and a mono saturated fat, good for heart.

5. Yogurt has long been credited with a range of therapeutic benefits, many of which involve the health of the large intestine. Its easily absorbed calcium content, improves ones bones. The Lactobacillus GG bacteria, not digested by and reach large intestine to add up with other friendly bacteria and fights bad bacteria living there.

6. Banana is a rich source carbohydrate for refueling after long workouts. It is also jam-packed with potassium that helps lower blood pressure, and vitamin B6 for healthy skin and hair. This is also a rich source of anti-oxidants, which helps in clearing free radicals in our system.

7. Brazil nuts are good sources of selenium that may help protect against cancer, depression and Alzheimer's disease.

These are some of the vegetarian food items which are not used only as food, but also as medicine for even chronic diseases. So, there is no doubt that vegetarian food is healthy!

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