Fit food guide

Pomegranates

The pomegranate is a powerhouse of antioxidants, and a glass of pomegranate juice will satisfy a day's requirement of vitamin C for the average adult. The fruit is also rich in vitamin B5, potassium and fiber, if you eat the seeds. Clinical research has suggested that pomegranate juice can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

In Indian ayurvedic medicine, the pomegranate has been used for thousands of years. Its bark and rind are traditional remedies for diarrhea and dysentery while its juice is prescribed to soothe throats and stem nosebleeds and bleeding gums.

As a cosmetic, a potion made from various parts of the plants is supposed to firm sagging breasts and also cure cataracts. Available fresh, in juice and as pomegranate molasses, it is often used in Middle-Eastern cooking.

Blueberries

When it comes to antioxidants, few come close to the blueberry. The fruit has long been recognized for its flavor, nutrition and health benefits and they are packed with antioxidants that help neutralize harmful free radicals that can lead to cancer and other debilitating age-related symptoms. Blueberries have twice the number of antioxidants that spinach has, and it is also rich in pectin, a soluble fiber that is effective in lowering cholesterol. Fresh blueberries are higher in vitamins A and C than frozen or canned. Many provinces in China now grow blueberries commercially, especially in the northeast.

Blueberries

Dark chocolate

This is probably everybody's favorite super food. Next time you munch a piece of chocolate, skip the guilt and enjoy it - it's good for you.

Natural dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants and phytonutrients that come from the cacao beans it is made from. The higher the percentage of cocoa solids, the more antioxidants it contains.

Studies claim that eating a little dark chocolate two or three times each week can help lower blood pressure, improve circulation and help prevent hardening of the arteries.

Dark chocolate also makes you feel good, as it contains a chemical that mimics the feel-good feeling of falling in love. Amor!

Contact the writer at paulined@chinadaily.com.cn.

Fan Zhen contributed to the story.