Health Pulse Many foods such as fruits and vegetables are natural sources of vitamins and other nutrients that are essential for good health. Modern plant breeding is helping to make good foods even better by giving them cancer-fighting properties, or the ability to combat growing public health problems such as obesity and diabetes. It’s widely accepted that dark blue and purple fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries and purple cabbage, are great sources of the anthocyanins, the antioxidants which we need to stay healthy. These antioxidants are scavengers of free radicals — high-energy particles in the human body that can damage cells — meaning that they can help fight inflammation, diabetes and cancer, as well as help with eye cell repair. A purple tomato, for example, has been developed in the U.K. which contains higher levels of anthocyanins. Although not commercially available yet, this innovation could boost the nutritional value of meals from pasta and pizza to bruschetta and salsa. University of Florida researchers are developing “blood” limes with purple pulp high in anthocyanins. They’re also developing a blood orange – these normally grow well in Spain and Italy – that can thrive in Florida’s subtropical citrus belt. Iron deficiency is the most widespread form of malnutrition, says the World Health Organization, and a lack of zinc causes stunted growth. A global research team has developed rice containing high levels of iron and zinc that could help global hunger and malnutrition. Top six tips for preventing BACK INJURIES The last thing you want to happen whenever you leave your home, for anything from work to a much-anticipated faraway vacation, is an injury. Whether you’re going near or far, take the time to consider the weight which you are carrying. Here are some valuable tips from the Ontario Chiropractic Association about avoiding injuries from carrying heavy items: 1. Choose the right size: Use bags appropriate to your body size with wide, adjustable and padded straps that evenly distribute the load. It’s also important to select a bag made of light-weight material, such as canvas or vinyl. For luggage, choose a bag with wheels that is not heavy when empty. 2. Pack it light: Reducing the weight that you carry in your everyday bag is key to avoiding injury. Take time to check your bag before you use it to ensure that you are only carrying essential items. Remember to pack the heaviest items on the bottom and distribute items in side pockets as well. 3. Wear it properly: For bags with two straps, use both and tighten them to minimize movement and jarring. For bags with one strap, cross the strap over your body to distribute the weight more evenly and switch sides often to reduce strain. 4. Lift it correctly: When lifting can’t be avoided, do it in increments. Make sure to hold the load close to your body, bend your knees and avoid twisting your back. 5. Change it up: Try changing your purse or wallet for work versus social outings. If you’re popping out to lunch during work, just carry your essentials in your pocket, rather than carrying your entire bag with you. 6. Exercise: Regular exercise such as walking, swimming or bicycling will help your body stay conditioned and can help prevent injury. Better FOOD for better HEALTH www.newscanada.com www.newscanada.com 44 | www.snowbirds.org
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