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5. The Combo: Salad + Avocado
The Benefit: Save Your Eyesight
Although spinach is really good for your eyesight, adding avocado to the mix makes it even that much more effective. Ohio State University found that when subjects ate a salad consisting of lettuce, spinach, and carrots, those who had 3 or more tablespoons of avocado mixed into their salad absorbed more than 8 times the amount of alpha-carotene, almost 14 times more beta-carotene, and 4 times more lutein than those who did not add avocado to their salad. You don’t need to add more than 3 tablespoons, though, as the study showed that more than that amount did not change its overall effectiveness.
6. The Combo: Strength Train + Stretch
The Benefit: Build More Muscle
You probably didn’t realize that doing weight training actually builds strength by causing small tear in the muscles, which then quickly repairs itself, thereby making it bigger and stronger. If you want to build more muscle more quickly, you need merely add static stretching, which means you hold a stretch position for 10 to 30 seconds. Several studies show that when adults stretch either between or immediately after doing their strength training routine, they developed 20 percent more strength than those who lifted weights only.
To make this work, rest for one minute between sets and use that time to stretch the muscle you just worked. Hold each stretch for at least 20 seconds for maximum results.
7. The Combo: Mediterranean Diet + Nuts
The Benefit: Avoid the Dreaded Metabolic Syndrome (Read more how to pump up your metabolism)
Metabolic syndrome is a condition where people have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high blood sugar levels, and excessive belly fat. A Mediterranean style diet, which is high in fruits, vegetables, beans, fish, and olive oil, has been shown to help with numerous problems including weight loss, heart disease, and Parkinson’s disease. Eating a Mediterranean diet can help with metabolic syndrome and recent research has shown that just by adding one serving of mixed nuts to the plan, they can reduce the symptoms even further. Researchers believe it’s the omega-3 fatty acids; fiber, potassium, and magnesium that help regulate blood sugar levels, blood pressure, as well as reduce inflammation.
8. The Combo: Eggs + Orange Juice
The Benefit: Reduce Fatigue
When the body does not get sufficient levels of iron it tends to feel sluggish. Your body can easily absorb the iron from meats but only between 2 and 20 percent of the iron found in veggies, beans, and eggs can be used by the body. The booster that works? Vitamin C. Vitamin C keeps iron as much as 6 times more soluble, meaning that it makes it available to the body for use.
So “C” to it that you get enough iron. Drink orange juice with your morning omelet and feel the power!
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