Looking after your health requires being switched on about what you put into your body. Nutritionist Rob Hobson pin-points key snacks to promote longevity.
Hobson has worked alongside care homes, government agencies and the NHS to impart his knowledge on nutrition.
Now, he has shared his top tips with the Daily Express on how to have a healthy diet.
Hobson began with key information on free radicals. “Free radicals are produced naturally through chemical processes that occur in the body,” he said.
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For instance, free radicals are created when food is broken down as energy.
He continued: “While these chemicals have a bad reputation, they have a positive role to play in the body.”
Noting that free radicals can “help the immune system rid the body of foreign invaders”, it’s when they build-up that trouble occurs.
Excess amounts of free radicals can “potentially damage the DNA of cells”.
Hobson added: “This is thought to be a factor in many diseases.”
What’s the solution to an excess amount of free radicals floating around in the body?
“Antioxidants help by neutralising free radicals before they can cause any damage.
“Foods rich in antioxidants include fruits, vegetables, nuts and raw cacao.”
So why not swap that bag of crips for juicy slices of watermelon?
And how about throwing away the tub of ice cream for some vegetable sticks with hummus?
You could try carrot sticks or bell peppers, maybe even stick some potato fries in the oven.
Raw cacao can be enjoyed in delightfully dark chocolates too.
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“Nuts, such as almonds, contain magnesium, potassium, riboflavin and fibre,” stated Hobson.
“Research has shown that eating almonds can help to reduce belly fat and significantly improve cholesterol levels.”
Both of which – low visceral fat and cholesterol levels – are needed to be healthier and help prevent diseases, thereby increasing longevity.
Nuts are also rich in zinc, and Hobson declared: “Zinc is one of the most important nutrients for men.”
Vitally important for prostate health, Hobson explained: “If you become zinc-deficient, your chances of an inflamed or enlarged prostate increases.
“And it may increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.”
Nuts are also associated with good heart health. Hobson added: “Almonds also contain the fatty acid linoleic acid.
“This contributes to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels, which is a risk factor for heart disease.”
Hobson advised: “A simple change has a big impact.”
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