GOODNESS
Broccoli: Although not the favorite of many kids, broccoli is one of the healthiest foods you can find. It is a member of the cabbage family and is rich in isothiocyanates, sulforaphanes and indoles, which are big words for powerful cancer fighters. It is chock full of nutrition, and on top of it all is good for your eyes. All parts of the broccoli are good for you, including the stems and leaves. Even the sprouts are touted as alarmingly healthy. So it's probably time to get over your aversion and bite the broccoli.

Carrots: We all know that carrots are good for your eyes, but did you know they have anti-cancer properties as well? They have the nicely named carotenoids that are antioxidents -- chemicals that mop up the damage that results from ordinary metabolism. That, in turn, helps to keep your cells from turning rogue and hanging with the cancer gangs. If that's not enough to make you grab a carrot, they turn out to be immune-system stimulators as well, meaning you'll have fewer occasions to ask "What's up, doc?" Yes there's a little sugar in them, but also a lot of fiber to buffer it, so only the most sugar-restricted people should worry. By the way, the vitamin K in carrots is easier to absorb if you eat them with a bit of oil or fat, like a dip.

Garlic: Garlic is in the same family as onions and leeks, and purportedly provided ancient Roman soldiers the courage to battle the barbarians. Whether or not it gives you courage, it is known to lower blood pressure, which is great for your heart and helps prevent stroke. In addition, it has a long history as a digestive aid, so don't be shy with this wonderful herb, no matter what it does to your breath!

Ginger: This spicy root is known as the universal remedy. Although it's well-known as a stomach soother, it also improves circulation, fights tumors, reduces inflammation and boosts the immune system. Oh, and it's good for pain and a fever. The only possible drawbacks are for people with gallstones or those on blood thinners.
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Recipe

Daikon, Carrot, and Broccoli Slaw

serves
prep time: 10

ingredients

  • 1 cup daikon (Japanese white radish),* peeled, cut into 1 inch pieces (about 1/2 large)
  • 3/4 cup peeled baby carrots
  • 3/4 cup broccoli stems, cut into 1 inch pieces
  • 1 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/3 cup seasoned rice vinegar
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons minced peeled ginger
  • 4 1/2 teaspoons Asian sesame oil
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons chili-garlic sauce*

directions

Fit processor with large-hole grating disk. Working with a few pieces at a time, push daikon, carrots, and broccoli stems through feed tube until all vegetables are grated. Transfer vegetables to medium bowl. Add green onions. Whisk vinegar, ginger, oil, and chili-garlic sauce in small bowl to blend, pour over vegetables and toss to coat. Season with salt and serve.

* Available at most supermarkets and at Asian markets.