Big Ass Salads

Here are just a few of the latest discoveries in nutritional science:

A review of more than 200 epidemiological studies shows that eating raw green vegetables has a consistent and powerful association with reduction of stomach, pancreas, colon and breast cancer. (As one researcher put it, "You want to know the real secret to superior health? Big-ass salads.")

People with the highest amounts of lycopene in their blood - which is an antioxidant found in tomatoes - are 55% less likely to have a stroke than those with the lowest levels.

Twenty-eight servings of vegetables per week decreases prostate cancer risk by 33%. But just three servings of cruciferous vegetables each week - kale, collards, broccoli or Brussels sprouts - decreases prostate cancer risk by 41%.

One or more servings of cabbage per week reduces the occurrence of pancreatic cancer by 38%.

White, cremini, portobello, oyster, maitake, and reishi mushrooms prevent DNA damage, slow cancer cell growth and prevent tumors from acquiring a blood supply. Frequent consumption of mushrooms can decrease the incidence of breast cancer up to 70%.

People who eat a half-cup of chopped onions a day may not have the freshest breath. But studies show they have a 56% reduction in colon cancer, a 73% reduction in ovarian cancer, a 71% reduction in prostate cancer, a 50% reduction in stomach cancer and an 88% reduction in esophageal cancer.

Multiple controlled studies show that pomegranates inhibit breast cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer and leukemia. They also naturally lower your blood pressure, help reverse atherosclerosis, and improve heart health.

Many types of berries are rich in antioxidants, but elderberries also enhance the body's defense against viral infections, particularly influenza.

Nuts and seeds are high in fat and calories but have been demonstrated in hundreds of medical studies to dramatically extend life and protect against disease. Indeed, as nut consumption increases, death from all causes decreases while overall lifespan increases.