When medicine was in its infancy and people weren't provided with necessary means of treatment their ailments, it was observed that some foods are able to cure people from disease. Thus the name smart food was born.
Some smart food items will be mentioned below. Banana can be considered to be a smart food, because it contains potassium and helps to prevent ulcers. Barley contains healthy fats, which help lower cholesterol. Chili pepper was used to cure bronchitis, sinusitis and cold. Figs stabilize blood sugar, keeping energy levels high. Among the most valuable of smart food are also those that contain fiber, which - as we have come to learn - relieves waste from the body.
Fruit and vegetables as well as whole grain cereal are sources of fiber. Horseradish is valuable because of its root, which contains an antibiotic and vitamin C and is used to fight colds. Kale contains beta carotene that helps fight germs, and calcium which is essential for building bones. Yoghurt is in a class of its own smart food since it contains the live culture acidophilus, which helps the body to fight intestinal infections.
Blueberries are source of antioxidants. Research shows that a blueberry diet improves memory and stimulates balance and coordination. The chemicals in blueberries have a positive impact on blood pressure. Fatty fish like salmon, sardines and herring also belong to smart food, because they are full of neuroprotective omega-3 fatty acids. Recent studies showed that people who eat at least one fish a week have less risk to end up with Alzheimer's disease. It has since been learned that
a steady diet of fish improves memory and contributes to increased learning capacity. Spinach is full of antioxidant power and is beneficial in slowing down problems connected with age. It's better to substitute brown rice for white rice. Brown rice is rich in vitamins and magnesium, which are so important to cognitive health. Whole grains are source of vitamin B6, which is not to be found in processed food.
Regarding liquids, preference should be given to water, because of its ability to purify the bloodstream and clean cells and tissues. Red wine is useful when consumed in moderation; it increases life expectance.
Grape juice is considered to be healthful, since it improves short term memory and motor skills. Concord grape juice contains the highest level of antioxidants.
As it has been already mentioned, smart food is completely different from junk food, which is rich in sugar, chemical additives and fats and is considered to be bad for health. Strangely, more advertising dollars are spent on junk food - which results in our consumption of cakes and cookies, ice-cream, potato chips, hamburgers, sugar-coated cereal and carbonated drinks - than is spent on smart food. Most fast food commercials are targeted at children and feature junk food advertising presented in a tempting and attractive way. Parents must take precautions against the excessive consumption of fast food on the part of their children. While visiting fast food establishment, parents must help their children make healthy choices as far as nutrition is concerned.