From The Straits Times    |

There are certain foods that we should all be eating because they are good for us. And, as women, there are particular food items that help with our unique health issues. Here’s a rundown of what you should include in your diet today.

Best food to eat for women health DECOR
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WOMEN’S CHANGING BODIES
Because our body’s needs vary with age, the foods that are good for us change throughout our lives too. Dr Sherry Wang, Lead Principal Scientist, Scientific and Clinical Affairs, Scientific Research, Brand’s, takes us through the foods that are good for us at various stages of our lives:

“When we’re younger, our focus would be more on our skin, so we should eat foods that help with our complexion, such as bird’s nest. Also, berries are rich in vitamin C, which helps to combat dryness and wrinkles. Also helpful are foods rich in essential fatty acids, like salmon, tuna and sardine, which give your skin good moisture from within to help develop your skin’s layers.

“Later on in life, women are more concerned with health issues that come with childbearing, and also calcium loss, as well as cancers like breast and ovarian cancer. Foods that may help with hormonal balance for childbearing include avocado, coconut oil, salmon, flaxseed and chia seeds. With regards to bone health, supplements help, as well as fortified milk, salmon and nuts.

“And, foods that help with cancer prevention are those with antioxidants, such as those found in many fruits especially berries, leafy vegetables like broccoli and spinach, high fibre foods and garlic.”

WHAT ELSE SHOULD WOMEN BE EATING?

Walnuts

Best food to eat for women health WALNUTS
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Just a handful of these a day can fight breast cancer and osteoporosis. The antioxidants in them, called phytosterols, help to stop the growth and development of breast cancer cells. And the omega 3 fats keep bones strong and healthy. While you can add them to cereal or muffins, it’s best to eat them alone.

Tomatoes

Best food to eat for women health TOMATOES
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Rich in the antioxidant lycopene, tomatoes may help to prevent breast and cervical cancers. Lycopene is also good for bone health and lowers your risk for osteoporosis. Eat them raw or cook them – the choice is yours.

Cranberry Juice

Best food to eat for women health CRANBERRY JUICE
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This drink is known for treating urinary tract infections in women, thanks to the antioxidants in it called proanthocyanins. These prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of the bladder, where they can multiply and cause or worsen an infection. Just remember to drink the unsweetened variety, as no woman needs all that extra sugar.

Want some more health tips? Read our stories 8 everyday things that affect your period; 6 foods that can reduce your stress and Have you tried any of these crazy diets that don’t work?