rediscovered some of the truly amazing benefits that these treatments have to offer.
             Experts in traditional medicine and those who practice holistic treatments all agree that the foundation of good health is based on a sound nutritional diet. Today in America, the average person eats only about half of the suggested five servings of fruits and vegetables a day (Food 1). Yet, the consumption of fruits and vegetables, combined with regular exercise is considered one of the best ways to increase the odds of living a long, healthy life (Food 1). Countless studies have been published showing the effects of whole fruits and vegetables in the prevention of heart attack, stroke, and cancer.
             Many people believe the lack of whole fruits and vegetables in their diet, can be made up by taking vitamin supplements. Although these are helpful, they in no way make up for a poor diet. In fact, sometimes the taking of isolated vitamins can do more harm than good. A 1994 study showed that smokers who took a 20mg supplement of beta-carotene had a higher incidence of lung cancer (Food 2). Researcher's believed the supplement would lower the chances of contracting lung cancer. To their surprise, quite the opposite occurred, the rates of cancer actually went up. Researchers concluded that beta-carotene must work in concert with other natural substances to fight cancer.
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             Beta-carotene, as well as other vitamins, were found to be only markers for other nutrients and the vitamin supplements alone were not enough (Food 2).
             What kinds of fruit and vegetables are then considered the best for a healthy diet? Variety is the key. It may be the best way to insure all the bases are covered. Most people know that citrus fruits contain plenty of vitamin C, but many do not realize a person can find plenty of calcium in dark le...