Two Foods for a Strong Immune System and Optimal Vision

Dicas para uma optima sopa de cenoura da Susana M.

Posted By Dr. Ben Kim on Mar 14, 2008 Healthy SoupsFull Body Cleanse Recipes

When eaten together, carrots and avocado provide a combination of nutrients that can strengthen your immune system and support your vision.

The carotenoids in carrots and healthy fat in avocado can contribute to healthy vitamin A status, and vitamin A serves your immune system in the following ways:

1.Vitamin A and its metabolites help to maintain the structure and function of your skin and the mucosal cells that line your respiratory tract, digestive tract, and urinary tract; your skin and mucosal linings are barriers that act as your body's first line of defense against harmful microbes and substances.

2.Vitamin A plays an important role in the development and differentiation of your white blood cells, which play essential roles in your immune system.

Carrots and avocados support your vision in the following ways:

1.After carotenoids are converted to vitamin A in your liver, vitamin A travels to the back of your eyes, where it is transformed into a purple pigment that is needed for night-vision.

2.Carotenoids that are not converted to vitamin A serve as antioxidants that help prevent the development of macular degeneration and senile cataracts.

3.Lutein, an antioxidant that is abundant in avocados, helps prevent free radical damage to areas of your eyes and brain that are responsible for registering everything that you see.

To supply all of the nutrients mentioned above to your cells with one delicious meal, look no further than the following all-raw soup recipe:

Raw Carrot and Avocado Soup Recipe
Serves 2-4

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh carrot juice
1 avocado, pit removed, and cut into large chunks
1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
3/4 cup fresh loose cilantro or parsley
2 green onions, finely sliced
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon naturally brewed soy sauce or nama shoyu
Sea salt, to taste

Directions:

1. Blend carrot juice, avocado, and ginger at a medium speed until smooth.

2. Add cilantro or parsley leaves (not stems), extra-virgin olive oil, and soy sauce, and pulse at medium speed until well blended but with bits of cilantro and parsley still visible.

3. Season with sea salt, to taste.

4. Serve chilled, and sprinkle green onion slices on top just before serving.

Enjoy this all-raw, delicious and nutritious carrot and avocado soup; eating this soup a few times per week can greatly benefit your immune system, eyes, and overall health.

Please note: As long as you don't use salt, this recipe is suitable for the Full Body Cleanse program.

Fonte Dr. Ben Kim