"Take avocados and peanuts, for example. Not too long ago they wore a big scarlet "F" for too much fat. Yet as peanuts
and avocados sat languishing on many people's bad-for-you lists, researchers discovered that the fat in these two foods,
mostly the monounsaturated kind, is extremely good for the heart--and for health in general. And the good news didn't
stop there. Researchers continue to uncover disease-fighting chemicals or new health roles for these foods.
For the common mushroom, the "bad" reputation is a tad subtler. It's not perceived as unhealthy. But it is often
dismissed as diet food, low in calories but with little to brag about nutritionally. Truth is, scientists are finding
that mushrooms contain powerful compounds that boost immune function and may fight cancer.
Now that scientists are looking beneath the surface at mushrooms, avocados, and peanuts--as well as once-maligned eggs
and coffee--redeeming qualities for each of these five foods are coming to light. They have nutritional respect and
deserve a place at your table."
[permaculture] 5 excellent foods that are healthy for you,
Lawrence F. London, Jr., 11/07/2007