While foods don't typically cure diseases on their own, particular foods and nutrients provide exceptional healing benefits. Consuming proper amounts of foods and nutrients, staying properly hydrated and, if you're able, exercising regularly, can also help to reduce the effects of disease and lower your risk for complications. Since people's specific needs vary based upon age, gender, overall health, genetics and lifestyle factors, seek guidance from your doctor or dietitian before altering your diet.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish provide valuable amounts of protein, which can help your body tissues heal and strengthen, and omega-3 fatty acids -- essential fats that promote positive heart-health and brain function. People who consume a Mediterranean-style diet, which emphasizes omega-3 fats and fish, have a lower occurrence of heart disease -- a leading cause of death in the United States. Omega-3 fatty acids may also reduce your risk for certain forms of cancer and help to treat arthritis, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and depression, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. For maximum benefits, consume salmon, albacore tuna, herring, lake trout, flounder and sardines in place of red meat.
Yogurt and Kefir
Yogurt and kefir are cultured milk products that contain protein, valuable nutrients such as calcium, and probiotics -- healthy bacteria that promote intestinal health. Probiotics boost your immune system function, according to the University of Michigan Health System, and accelerate the healing process. Probiotics may also help to resolve diarrhea, tooth decay, chronic yeast infections, flaky skin disorders and symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn's disease. For best results, consume yogurt or kefir that display the phrase "live active cultures" on packaging.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are exceptional sources of antioxidants, which help your body defend itself and heal from infections and disease. Eating plentiful amounts of fruits and vegetables, or 2.5 to 6.5 cups per day, can help prevent vision loss, heart disease, stroke, certain forms of cancer and painful intestinal conditions, according to the Harvard School of Public Health. Fresh varieties also provide fluids and enhance hydration, which is an important means of flushing toxins from your body. Fruits and vegetables particularly rich in antioxidants include berries, cherries, citrus fruits, red grapes, tomatoes, leafy greens, bell peppers, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are grains that have not been stripped of valuable nutrients and fiber during food processing. The Healing Foods Pyramid established by the University of Michigan emphasizes whole grains due because they nourish your body with essential nutrients and promote sustained energy, healthy blood sugar balance and heart health. A diet rich in whole grains can also help to alleviate chronic constipation and reduce your risk for obesity, certain forms of cancer and type 2 diabetes. For optimum results, replace enriched breads, cereals, pasta and snack foods with whole grain equivalents most often. Examples of nutritious, healing whole grains include oats, whole wheat, bulgur, quinoa, spelt, brown rice, wild rice, barley and air-popped popcorn.
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