Dr Amir Khan confirms wholesome snack linked to decrease coronary heart illness and most cancers threat
Dr Amir Khan has shared advice on one healthy snack packed with antioxidants
Adding these two foods to your diet could see major health benefits (Image: Getty)
Doctor Amir Khan, a registered GP and health expert, is back with more dietary wisdom, revealing how one wholesome nibble could help reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. On his Instagram, he explained that this snack is packed with a soluble fibre known as “pectin”, which performs several beneficial functions.
Firstly, pectin nourishes “gut-friendly bacteria”. Secondly, it aids in “slowing down the absorption of sugar and cholesterol in the gut”. But it’s the inclusion of a potent antioxidant that truly delivers significant health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced and varied diet – this antioxidant is beta-carotene.
Our bodies convert beta-carotene into vitamin A, which Dr Khan confirmed is beneficial for our vision and immune system.
Moreover, this antioxidant is “linked to reduced risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer”.
So, what’s this nutritious treat?
Dr Khan unveiled that it’s none other than carrot sticks, perfect when paired with a dollop of hummus.
Other ways to get more carrots into your meals include “slicing them into salads” or “stirring them into stews and casseroles”. You can even blitz them into soups.
But carrots aren’t the only foodstuff Dr Khan is urging us to consume more of – oats are also on his list.
He says: “They are brimming with antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds called polyphenols. Oats also contain a unique antioxidant exclusive to them known as avenanthramide.”
This antioxidant is said to stimulate the production of gas molecules, which can help to expand blood vessels and consequently lower blood pressure.
But there’s another surprising perk: avenanthramide also acts as an anti-inflammatory, often helping to alleviate itchy skin.
Oats are packed with beta-glucan, soluble dietary fibres that aid in reducing cholesterol levels (and thus help fend off heart disease).
“Some research” indicates that regular consumption of oats can prevent constipation.
This implies that oats could become a nutritious breakfast staple if you’re on the hunt for a simple route to better health.
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