Foods That Heal

6 foods that may help you live stronger — and maybe even longer

Bananas

This tasty fruit is a compact packet of health benefits. One medium banana contains about 422 mg of potassium and 10 mg of vitamin C. This antioxidant helps protect your body against free radicals, which damage cells and may contribute to heart disease, cataracts, arthritis and even cancer.

Cherries

Cherries are high in melatonin, meaning they can help you sleep longer and better. Research suggests that people who have good sleep habits are incrementally less likely to die early. In addition to helping with sleep, cherries are full of antioxidants, vitamin A, vitamin C and are a great source of fiber. Cherries offer other health benefits, including:

Reduced muscle soreness
Reduced inflammation
Improved brain function
Strengthened immune system
Help with weight management

Onions

Inside the layers lies a dense package of antioxidants and nutrients that can help prevent — and heal. Onions are rich in B vitamins, including folate and vitamin B6. These are vital to keeping metabolism working correctly, producing red blood cells and regulating nerve function. Plus, the flavonoids in onions are great for keeping blood sugar levels steady, making onions ideal if you have diabetes.

Cabbage

Cabbage makes a fabulous base for recipes such as coleslaw and sauerkraut. Like its cousins broccoli and Brussels sprouts, cabbage offers anti-cancer compounds. Red cabbage also contains anthocyanins, the flavonoid that can help keep your heart, liver and eyes healthy. In sauerkraut, fermented cabbage is used as the base. A new study found that fermented foods can help the body manage stress. They may even help prevent depression and anxiety. Load up your plate!

Beans

Beans are brimming with heart-healthy nutrients. The American Heart Association says plant-based proteins such as beans and other legumes are high in minerals and dietary fiber without the saturated fat and cholesterol in some animal proteins.

Swapping some of your red meat with beans can lower blood cholesterol and your risk factor for heart disease. Beans may also help reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes and control blood sugar levels because of their high fiber content. A cup of kidney beans offers about 15 grams of protein — as much as 2 ounces of chicken breast — and a whopping 13 grams of fiber.

Carrots

Bugs Bunny had it right. Carrots are rich in vitamin A (a half cup of raw carrot has more than 500 mg). Vitamin A helps keep eyes healthy and may lower the risk of cancer. Carrots also contain vitamin K. This vitamin helps maintain strong bones to help reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

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This publication is for informational purposes only and does not replace the care or advice of a doctor. Always talk with a doctor before beginning any exercise program, therapy or medication. Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premium and/or copayments/coinsurance may change on January 1 of each year. UnitedHealthcare does not provide any assurances nor accept any responsibility or liability regarding the quality, nutritional value, or safety of the included recipes.