Many common foods provide natural chemicals that influence the brain’s ability to use neurotransmitters, chemicals that enable cells to send messages back and forth. “Calming”foods increase the availability of the neurotransmitter serotonin. “Mood elevators” increase the availability of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine
As a wheat substitute in baking Protection against certain cancers As a laxative To strengthen bones and reduce age-related loss of bone density Lower cholesterol levels As a source of calcium Dilation of blood vessels Anti-inflammatory effects Reduced risk of hypertension (high blood pressure). Reduced levels of cholesterol Treating and/or preventing iron deficiency Reduce symptoms of PMS Lower risk of stroke As a stimulant and mood elevator Protection against heart disease As a diet aid Urinary antiseptic Wound healing A lower risk of some kinds of cancer Potassium replacement As a diuretic Potassium benefits Anticancer activity To relieve or prevent constipation Use as contrast medium Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, decline of brain function, and other diseases of aging. To soothe irritated skin To reduce the levels of serum cholesterol Lower risk of heart attack Protein source Iron supplementation As a source of carbohydrates for people with diabetes Lower risk of dental cavities Anti-inflammatory action Relief from stuffed nose caused by cold or seasonal (mold, pollen) allergy Calming effect Lower risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some forms of cancer Adsorbent and demulcent Vision protection Protection against vitamin A-deficiency blindness Antiscorbutic Protection against some cancers As a chocolate substitute Lower risk of some birth defects Protection against osteoporosis Stimulating the appetite Omega-3 fish oils Relieving the congestion of a cold Protective effects of omega-3 fatty acids Protection against cardiovascular disease
