FREE NUTRITION GUIDES AND ARTICLES

Eating Fruit and Other Tips

2009-10-30T17:13:00.000+08:00

EATING FRUIT...

It's long but very informative

We all think eating fruits means just buying fruits, cutting it and just popping it into our mouths. It's not as easy as you think. It's important to know how and when to eat.

What is the correct way of eating fruits?

IT MEANS NOT EATING FRUITS AFTER YOUR MEALS! * FRUITS SHOULD BE EATEN ON AN EMPTY STOMACH.

If you eat fruit like that, it will play a major role to detoxify your system, supplying you with a great deal of energy for weight loss and other life activities.

FRUIT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT FOOD. Let's say you eat two slices of bread and then a slice of fruit. The slice of fruit is ready to go straight through the stomach into the intestines, but it is prevented from doing so.

In the meantime the whole meal rots and ferments and turns to acid. The minute the fruit comes into contact with the food in the stomach and digestive juices, the entire mass of food begins to spoil....

So please eat your fruits on an empty stomach or before your meals! You have heard people complaining — every time I eat watermelon I burp, when I eat durian my stomach bloats up, when I eat a banana I feel like running to the toilet, etc — actually all this will not arise if you eat the fruit on an empty stomach. The fruit mixes with the putrefying other food and produces gas and hence you will bloat!

Graying hair, balding, nervous outburst, and dark circles under the eyes all these will NOT happen if you take fruits on an empty stomach.

There is no such thing as some fruits, like orange and lemon are acidic, because all fruits become alkaline in our body, according to Dr. Herbert Shelton who did research on this matter. If you have mastered the correct way of eating fruits, you have the Secret of beauty, longevity, health, energy, happiness and normal weight.

When you need to drink fruit juice - drink only fresh fruit juice, NOT from the cans. Don't even drink juice that has been heated up. Don't eat cooked fruits because you don't get the nutrients at all. You only get to taste. Cooking destroys all the vitamins.

But eating a whole fruit is better than drinking the juice. If you should drink the juice, drink it mouthful by mouthful slowly, because you must let it mix with your saliva before swallowing it. You can go on a 3-day fruit fast to cleanse your body. Just eat fruits and drink fruit juice throughout the 3 days and you will be surprised when your friends tell you how radiant you look!

KIWI: Tiny but mighty. This is a good source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin E & fiber. Its vitamin C content is twice that of an orange.

APPLE: An apple a day keeps the doctor away? Although an apple has a low vitamin C content, it has antioxidants & flavonoids which enhances the activity of vitamin C thereby helping to lower the risks of colon cancer, heart attack & stroke.

STRAWBERRY: Protective Fruit. Strawberries have the highest total antioxidant power among major fruits & protect the body from cancer-causing, blood vessel-clogging free radicals.

ORANGE : Sweetest medicine. Taking 2-4 oranges a day may help keep colds away, lower cholesterol, prevent & dissolve kidney stones as well as lessens the risk of colon cancer.

WATERMELON: Coolest thirst quencher. Composed of 92% water, it is also packed with a giant dose of glutathione, which helps boost our immune system. They are also a key source of lycopene — the cancer fighting oxidant. Other nutrients found in watermelon are vitamin C & Potassium.

GUAVA & PAPAYA: Top awards for vitamin C. They are the clear winners for their high vitamin C content.. Guava is also rich in fiber, which helps prevent constipation. Papaya is rich in carotene; this is good for your eyes.

Drinking Cold water after a meal = Cancer! Can u believe this?? For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you. It is nice to have a cup of cold drink after a meal. However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you have just consumed. It will slow down the digestion. Once this 'sludge' reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer. It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal.

A serious note about heart attacks HEART ATTACK PROCEDURE': (THIS IS NOT A JOKE!) Women should know that not every heart attack symptom is going to be the left arm hurting. Be aware of intense pain in the jaw line. You may never have the first chest pain during the course of a heart attack. Nausea and intense sweating are also common symptoms. Sixty percent of people who have a heart attack while they are asleep do not wake up. Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Let's be careful and be aware. The more we know the better chance we could survive.

Benefits of Raisins

2009-09-16T13:06:00.002+08:00

Raisins have often been referred to as nature's candy. If you aren't sure what a raisin actually is.

Raisins are dehydrating grapes that are heat dried or used in mechanical oven for drying. There are different types of raisins; there are Sultana, Malaga, Monukka, Zante Currant, Muscant and Thompson seedless. Though raisins are a dried fruit they are very sweet tasting and have a wrinkly texture. They are a great snack for kids rather than candy.

Raisins are about 69% sugars by weight, most of which is fructose. Raisins are also high in certain antioxidants, and are comparable to prunes and apricots in this regard. As with all dried fruits, raisins have a very low vitamin C content.

The health benefit of raisins is that they are an antioxidant. These help keep the blood clean and flowing. They get rid of all unclean impurities in the blood, raisins can't do the job alone, there are other fruits and juices that act as antioxidants and together they can cleanse the blood and make you healthier. Raisins are said to beneficial for bone density. The minerals in raisins in conjunction with estrogen in women help make bones stronger and ward off osteoporosis.

Raisins are also great for healthy gums and teeth. Though raisins are sticky and very sweet, they do not cause tooth decay or gum disease. The key ingredient in raisins that help promote good oral hygiene is called phytonutrients and olenolic acid. Raisins are also a preventative measure for macular degeneration, which is the health of your eyesight. Just as carrots are good for your eyesight as are raisins. Overall, raisins help with eyesight, oral hygiene and they act as antioxidants. Raisins are sweet and great tasting and promote good health

Raisins are sweet due to their high concentration of sugars. If they are stored for a long period, the sugar inside the fruit crystallizes. This makes the dry raisins gritty, but does not affect their usability. The sugar grains dissolve when the raisins are swelled in (hot) water. Diabetic patients may use raisins instead of regular sugar.

Other benefits of raisins: :)

Constipation: When ingested, raisins swell as the fiber present in them in dried form absorbs water. This helps giving relief in constipation.

Weight Gain: Raisins, like all dry fruits, are very good for gaining weight, as they are full of fructose and glucose and give a lot of energy. Thus, they form an ideal part of the diet for either athletes or body builders who need a lot of energy or those who want to put on weight, without accumulating cholesterol. This is further boosted due to presence of many vitamins, amino acids and minerals (such as selenium, phosphorus etc.) in raisins which facilitate absorption of other nutrients and proteins in the body.

Acidosis: Acidosis is a state of increased acidity of the blood (also known as toxicity of the blood) or of the gases in our respiratory system, the source of acids for both being our stomach. This is very harmful for the body as it may give rise to a number of problems like boils, skin diseases and damage to the internal organs, arthritis, gout, renal calculi, hair loss, heart diseases, tumors and even cancer. Raisins are good source of potassium and magnesium (two of the most popular constituents of antacids, being basic in nature) both of which are very effective in reducing acidity. They neutralize the acids and thus help check acidosis.

Anemia: Raisins contain considerable amount of iron which directly helps treating anemia. It also contains many members of vitamin-B complex which are essential for formation of blood. Copper in them also help formation of red blood cells.

Fever: Phenolic Phytonutrients, well known for their germicidal, anti biotic and anti oxidant properties, are present in abundance in raisins and help cure fever by fighting viral and bacterial infections.

Sexual Weakness: Raisins are known to stimulate libido and induce arousal, primarily due to presence of an amino acid called Arginine, which is beneficial in treating problems in erection. It has been a common practice in India to make the bride and the groom drink a glass of milk each, boiled with raisins and added with a pinch of saffron. It is also recommended for those suffering from sexual weakness, to consume raisins regularly. This effect is aided with the presence of lot of energy in raisins.

Bone Health: While Calcium, which is the main constituent of bones, is present in raisins, it is one of the best sources of Boron, a micro nutrient (a nutrient required by the body in very small amount as compared to other nutrients) which is very necessary for proper bone formation and absorption of calcium. Boron is particularly helpful in preventing osteoporosis induced by menopause in women and is very beneficial for bones and joints.

Eye Care: Raisins contain polyphenolic phytonutrients which have anti oxidant properties which are very good for ocular health, as they protect eyes from damages caused by free radicals (oxidants), such as macular degeneration, age related weakening of vision, cataract etc. In addition, it contains very good amount of vitamin-A, A-Beta Carotene and A-Carotenoid, all of which are essential for a good ocular health.

Dental Care: Oleanolic Acid, one of the phytochemicals present in raisins, plays crucial role in protecting your teeth against tooth decay, cavities, brittleness of teeth etc. It effectively prevents growth of Streptococcus Mutans and Porphyromonas Gingivalis, two of the species of bacteria which are most responsible for cavities and other dental problems. In addition, it is rich in calcium which is very good for promoting dental health, as it prevents breaking or peeling away of teeth and enamel and makes them strong. One more interesting thing about raisins is that the longer they stick to your teeth, the better, as it ensures longer contact of Oleanolic Acid with the teeth preventing growth of bacteria. In addition to above, boron present in raisins plays a very important role in checking growth of germs in the mouth as well promotes health of bones and teeth.

Other Benefits: Catechin, a phenolic anti oxidant present in raisins, is very effective for prevention of tumor and cancer of colon. The fibers in it help excretion of bile from the body, burning of cholesterol and thereby ensuring good cardiac health.

Oh..I love raisins so much..I eat it regularly and make sure not less than once a week. Its a blessing to have raisins easily. Hope you also make it a part of your healthy diet. :)

Articles are picked from:

http://www.oohoi.com/natural%20remedy/everyday_food/benefits-of-raisins.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raisin

http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/fruit/health-benefits-of-raisins.html

Soursop.. anti-cancer?

2009-07-29T20:07:00.002+08:00

Guyabano, The Soursop Fruit

The Sour Sop or the fruit from the graviola tree is a miraculous natural cancer cell killer 10,000 times stronger than Chemo.
Why are we not aware of this? Its because some big corporation want to make back their money spent on years of research by trying to make a synthetic version of it for sale.

So, since you know it now you can help a friend in need by letting him know or just drink some sour sop juice yourself as prevention from time to time. The taste is not bad after all. It’s completely natural and definitely has no side effects. If you have the space, plant one in your garden.
The other parts of the tree are also useful.

The next time you have a fruit juice, ask for a sour sop.

How many people died in vain while this billion-dollar drug maker concealed the secret of the miraculous Graviola tree?
This tree is low and is called graviola ! in Brazi l, guanabana in Spanish and has the uninspiring name "soursop" in English. The fruit is very large and the subacid sweet white pulp is eaten out of hand or, more commonly, used to make fruit drinks, sherbets and such.

The principal interest in this plant is because of its strong anti-cancer effects. Although it is effective for a number of medical conditions, it is its anti tumor effect that is of most interest. This plant is a proven cancer remedy for cancers of all types.

Besides being a cancer remedy, graviola is a broad spectrum antimicrobial agent for both bacterial and fungal infections, is effective against internal parasites and worms, lowers high blood pressure and is used for depression, stress and nervous disorders.

If there ever was a single example that makes it dramatically clear why the existence of Health Sciences Institute is so vital to Americans like you, it's the incredible story behind the Graviola tree.

The truth is stunningly simple: Deep within the Amazon
Rainforest grows a tree that could literally revolutionize what you, your doctor, and the rest of the world thinks about cancer treatment and chances of survival. The future has never looked more promising.

Research shows that with extracts from this miraculous tree it now may be possible to:
* Attack cancer safely and effectively with an all-natural therapy that does not cause extreme nausea, weight loss and hair loss
* Protect your immune system and avoid deadly infections
* Feel stronger and healthier throughout the course of the treatment
* Boost your energy and improve your outlook on life

The source of this information is just as stunning: It comes from one of America 's largest drug manufacturers, th! e fruit of over 20 laboratory tests conducted since the 1970's! What those tests revealed was nothing short of mind numbing... Extracts from the tree were shown to:

* Effectively target and kill malignant cells in 12 types of cancer, including colon, breast, prostate, lung and pancreatic cancer..
* The tree compounds proved to be up to 10,000 times stronger in slowing the growth of cancer cells than Adriamycin, a commonly used chemotherapeutic drug!
* What's more, unlike chemotherapy, the compound extracted from the Graviola tree selectivelyhunts
down and kills only cancer cells. It does not harm healthy cells!

The amazing anti-cancer properties of the Graviola tree have been extensively researched--so why haven't you heard anything about it? If Graviola extract is as half as promising as it appears to be--why doesn't every single oncologist at every major hospital insist on using it on all his or her patients?

The spine-chilling answer illustrates just how easily our health--and for many, our very lives(!)--are controlled by money and power.

Graviola--the plant that worked too well

One of America 's biggest billion-dollar drug makers began a search for a cancer cure and their research centered on Graviola, a legendary healing tree from the Amazon Rainforest.

Various parts of the Graviola tree--including the bark, leaves, roots, fruit and fruit-seeds--have been used for centuries by medicine men and native Indi! ans in S outh America to treat heart disease, asthma, liver problems and arthritis. Going on very little documented scientific evidence, the company poured money and resources into testing the tree's anti-cancerous properties--and were shocked by the results. Graviola proved itself to be a cancer-killing dynamo.

But that's where the Graviola story nearly ended.

The company had one huge problem with the Graviola tree--it's completely natural, and so, under federal law, not patentable. There's no way to make serious profits from it.

It turns out the drug company invested nearly seven years trying to
synthesize two of the Graviola tree's most powerful anti-cancer ingredients. If they could isolate and produce man-made clones of what makes the Graviola so potent, they'd be able to patent it and make their money back. Alas, they hit a brick wall. The original simply could not be replicated. There was no way the company could protect its profits--or even make back the millions it poured into research.

As the dream of huge profits evaporated, their testing on Graviola came to a screeching halt. Even worse, the company shelved the entire project and chose not to publish the findings of its research!

Luckily, however, there was one scientist from the Graviola research team whose conscience wouldn't let him see such atrocity committed. Risking his career, he contacted a company that's dedicated to harvesting medical plants from the Amazon Rainforest and blew the whistle.

Miracle unleashed
When researchers at the Health Sciences Institute were alerted to the news of Graviola,! they be gan tracking the research done on the cancer-killing tree. Evidence of the astounding effectiveness of Graviola--and its shocking cover-up--came in fast and furious....

....The National Cancer Institute performed the first scientific research in 1976. The results showed that Graviola's "leaves and stems were found effective in attacking and destroying malignant cells." Inexplicably, the results were published in an internal report and never released to the public...

...Since 1976, Graviola has proven to be an immensely potent cancer killer in 20 independent laboratory tests, yet no double-blind clinical trials--the typical benchmark mainstream doctors and journals use to judge a
treatment's value--were ever initiated...

....A study published in the Journal of Natural Products, following a recent study conducted at Catholic University of South Korea stated that one chemical in Graviola was found to selectively kill colon cancer cells at "10,000 times the potency of (the commonly used chemotherapy drug) Adriamycin..."

....The most significant part of the Catholic University of South Korea report is that Graviola was shown to selectively target the cancer cells, leaving healthy cells untouched. Unlike chemotherapy, which indiscriminately targets all actively reproducing cells (such as stomach and hair cells), causing the often devastating side effects of nausea and hair loss in cancer patients.

...A study at Purdue University recently found that leaves from the Graviola tree killed cancer cells among six human cell lines and were especially effective against prostate, pancreatic and lung
cancers... Seven years of silence broken--it's finally here!

A limited supply of Graviola extract, grown and harvested by indigenous people in Brazil , is finally av! ailable in America .

The full Graviola Story--including where you can get it and how to use it--is included in Beyond Chemotherapy: New Cancer Killers, Safe as Mother's Milk, a Health Sciences Institute FREE special bonus report on natural substances that will effectively revolutionize the fight against cancer.

This crucial report (along with five more FREE reports) is yours ABSOLUTELY FREE with a new membership to the Health Sciences Institute. It's just one example of how absolutely vital each report from the Institute can be to your life and those of your loved ones.

From breakthrough cancer and heart research and revolutionary Amazon Rainforest herbology to world-leading anti-aging research and nutritional medicine, every monthly Health Sciences Institute Member's Alert puts in your hands today cures the rest of America --including your own doctor(!)--is likely to find out only ten years from now.

(from forwarded email)

Nuts and Its benefits

2009-07-17T16:14:00.001+08:00

Nuts and its benefits

Nuts are abundant in nature. Nuts such as almond, pistachios, walnut, hazelnut, peanut are so familiar to our diet. But the question is do we consume enough nuts in our life to make a visible effect in our health? Here are some excerpts I’ve taken from various sources in the internet and to my surprise they do make me want to eat more nuts, consistently.

Benefits of eating nuts

Other than its crunchy texture and delicious taste nuts do offer a whole array of benefits for human. Some nuts has more oil than others. Nuts are one of the best plant sources of protein. They are rich in fiber, phytonutrients and antioxidants such as Vitamin E and selenium. Nuts are also high in plant sterols and fat - but mostly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (omega 3 - the good fats) which have all been shown to lower LDL cholesterol.(1)

In 1992 researchers working on the Adventist Health Study at Loma Linda University in California reported that those eating nuts daily had up to 60% fewer heart attacks than those who ate nuts less than once per month. The beneficial effect of nut consumption was found for men, women, vegetarians, meat-eaters, fatter people, thinner people, the old, the young, those who did much exercise and those who did little exercise. The study was large, comprising 31,000 white Californian Seventh Day Adventists and similar benefits of nut eating were subsequently found for African Americans. Prior to the publication of these results, nutritional advice had usually been to minimise nut consumption on the grounds that they were a "fatty" food.(1)

Researchers found that people who eat nuts regularly have lower risks of heart disease. In 1996, the Iowa Women's Healthy Study found that women who ate nuts >4 times a week were 40% less likely to die of heart disease. Two years later, another study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health found a similar result in another group of women subjects. Furthermore, potential heart health benefits of nuts were also found among men. In 2002, the Physician's Health Study found that men who consumed nuts 2 or more times per week had reduced risks of sudden cardiac death. (1)

Nuts are a nutrient dense food and contain high amounts of dietary fiber. They are high in unsaturated fats, while low in saturated fats. They also contain folic acid, copper, magnesium, Vitamin E and arginine. A study conducted at The Center of Health Research at Loma Linda University in 1999, found that nuts go way beyond good nutrition. The study found that eating one to two ounces of nuts a day, helped to lower LDL cholesterol by eight to twelve percent. They also found that frequent nut consumption, by individuals, lowered their risk of coronary disease by up to fifty percent. It’s thought that the cardiovascular benefits that nuts provide include a reduction of LDL cholesterol. Also, the antioxidant mechanism of Vitamin E content within the nut and the higher levels of nitric oxide within the blood, from arginine, seems to help the blood vessel lining and platelets. (2)

Several epidemiological studies have revealed that people who consume nuts regularly are less likely to suffer from coronary heart disease. Recent clinical trials have found that consumption of various nuts such as almonds and walnuts can lower serum LDL cholesterol concentrations. Although nuts contain various substances thought to possess cardioprotective effects, scientists believe that their Omega 3 fatty acid profile is at least in part responsible for the hypolipidemic response observed in clinical trials.

In addition to possessing cardioprotective effects, nuts generally have a very low glycemic index (GI). Consequently, dietitians frequently recommend nuts be included in diets prescribed for patients with insulin resistance problems such as diabetes mellitus type 2. (3)

The amino acid arginine is also present in nuts which, can help overcome erectile dysfunction. Arginine has also been found to boost immunity and lower elevated blood pressure levels. In addition, certain nuts like pecans, walnuts and almonds contain tryptophan - another amino acid that stimulates the production of the 'feel good' hormone serotonin in your brain, which can help ward off depression and promote a more relaxed state. (4) Nuts can lower your risk of heart disease by as much as 35%.(4)

Another reason to eat more peanuts is because they're an excellent source of B vitamins, including folate, riboflavin and niacin. All of which are essential for healthy metabolism and growth; a deficiency of them can cause muscle degredation and fatigue.(4)
Like peanuts, walnuts also have important benefits for your heart because of the omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids they contain. Both omega 3 and omega 6 are also needed for maintaining healthy joints and brain function. (4)

Another must are Brazil nuts. A recent study conducted at the University of Illinois in the US suggests that Brazil nuts may play a vital role in preventing breast cancer. According to the scientists who carried out the study, this benefit is probably a result of the high amounts of selenium they contain. (4)

Selenium is a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralise harmful free radicals that can attack healthy cells and increase the risk of serious conditions like heart disease and cancer - including breast cancer as already mentioned, and lung, bowel and prostate cancer. (4)

The list of health benefits attached to each individual nut is endless. Other nuts that are particularly good include: pistachios for their high iron, protein and fibre content and high levels of magnesium, which helps control blood pressure; hazelnuts because they are one of the richest sources of the antioxidant vitamin E; and cashew nuts for their high iron content which is needed to make haemoglobin - the red pigment in the blood.(4)

Which nuts to eat?
The definitive answer to this question is currently unknown. In the Adventist Study about about 32 percent of the nuts eaten were peanuts, 29 percent almonds, 16 percent walnuts, and 23 percent other types.(1)

These researchers did not ascertain whether the nuts were fresh, oil-roasted, or dry-roasted. The Nurses' Study found that peanuts, which are legumes, appeared to be just as effective in reducing the risk of coronary heart disease as tree nuts. Experiments where volunteers were fed nuts as part of their diet for several weeks have found that walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, pecans, pistachio nuts and macadamia nuts all alter the composition of the blood in ways that would be expected to reduce the risk of coronary disease. Chestnuts, a nut unusually low in fat, do not yet seem to have been studied. The best advice currently is probably to eat a variety of nuts.(1) Therefore, eating a broad range of nuts is best as they each have specific health benefits.(4)

Walnuts though, because they contain n-3 fatty acids, may be particularly beneficial, but this requires further study. Coconuts, on account of their high saturated fat content, should probably be avoided.(1)

After all eating a generous amount of nuts in you life won’t make you nuts at all!

(1) http://www.healthcastle.com/nuts-benefits.shtml
(2) http://food-facts.suite101.com/article.cfm/the_benefits_of_nuts
(3) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nut_(fruit)
(4) http://www.thehealthierlife.co.uk/natural-health-articles/nutrition/health-benefits-of-nuts-00841.html

Cellular Nutrition

2009-06-09T16:48:00.003+08:00

What is cellular nutrition?

Cellular nutrition is basically the process of feeding the cells with the necessary nutrients that it needs so that it can perform its functions without any obstacle. Cell is the basic unit of all living things. So the overall health of the body depends on the health of each and every cell in the body. The moment our cells begin to lose its functions then we can feel that some parts of us is not functioning very well. The result is a decline in health and soon followed by degenerative conditions.

It is therefore very important to make sure that our cells are giving its full in providing energy to our body and to achieve that we need to give the important nutrients to our cell through correct nutrition.

Free radicals

As stated in my previous posts, free radicals are the byproducts of processes that includes oxygen that occur inside the cells. Though normal, the buildups of free radicals may lead to cell damage through the destruction of structures in the cell by the free radicals. To minimize this, the body will produce substances that neutralize the free radicals. These anti-free radicals is known as antioxidants.

If the production of free radicals is higher than the production of antioxidants then damage of the cell will occur, this is known as oxidative stress. Oxidative stress, simply put, is the damage made to a cell through the oxidative process from the action of free radicals. Uncontrolled, oxidative stress can lead to chronic degenerative diseases such as atherosclerosis, heart disease, mutation, cancer, eye problems and brain problems that sometimes leads to Alzheimer's disease.

How to optimize the function of cells

To decrease or neutralise the effects of free radicals damage, our cells need to be supplied with a consistent supply of antioxidants. Vitamin C is one of the various antioxidants that is very important in this aspect, there are myriads of types of antioxidants that can combat the effect of free radicals.

The point is good nutrition. A nutrition rich in antioxidants is very crucial in helping our cells to regenerate, grow and function optimally. So to feed our cells we need to consume foods rich in antioxidants such as vegetables and fruits.

But the question is " Are we willing to eat a large amount of fruits and vegetables daily? Which often equals to 17 kiwifruits, 18 oranges, 160 apples daily! anyone??

Thus, in our super fast, hectic, time-saving lifestyle today, what we really need is a good quality supplement that can supply our cells with the much needed antioxidant. As been summed up by an author, "Think of cellular nutrition as a very wise way of using the supplement and your food as “preventative medicine” to stop the disease process before it even begins."

Healthy choice begins with you, right now.

Reference:

http://www.preventive-health-guide.com/cellular-nutrition.html

Caution About Coke Cans

2009-04-05T08:01:00.002+08:00

This is Serious! This incident happened recently in North Texas .
A woman went boating one Sunday taking with her some cans of coke which she put into the refrigerator of the boat. On Monday she was taken to the hospital and placed in the Intensive Care Unit. She died on Wednesday.

The! autopsy concluded she died of Leptospirosis. This was traced to the can of coke she drank from, not using a glass. Tests showed that the can was infected by dried rat urine and hence the disease Leptospirosis.

Rat urine contains toxic and deathly substances. It is highly recommended to thoroughly wash the upper part of all soda cans before drinking out of them. The cans are typically stocked in warehouses and transported straight to the shops without being cleaned.

A study at NYCU showed that the tops of all soda cans are more contaminated than public toilets (i.e).. full of germs and bacteria. So wash them with water before putting them to the mouth to avoid any kind of fatal accident.

Please forward this message to all the people you care about.

Wonderful Benefits of Banana

2009-02-24T20:36:00.003+08:00

First of all, never, put your banana in the refrigerator!

This is interesting.
After reading this, you'll never look at a banana in the same way again .

Bananas contain three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber. A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy.

Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes.

But energy isn't the only way a banana can help us keep fit.

It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.

Depression: According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

PMS: Forget the pills - eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.

Anemia: High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.

Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.

Constipation: High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Hangovers: One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.

Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Nerves: Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system.

Overweight and at work? Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and crisps. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.
Ulcers: The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

Temperature control: Many other cultures see bananas as a "cooling" fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand, for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural mood enhancer tryptophan.

Smoking & Tobacco Use: Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassiu! m and ma gnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.

Stress: Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water balance. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack.

Strokes: According to research in "The New England Journal of Medicine, 'eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%!

Warts: Those keen on natural alternatives swear that if you want to kill off a wart, take a piece of banana skin and place it on the wart, with the yellow side out. Carefully hold the skin in place with a plaster or surgical tape!

So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, "A banana a day keeps the doctor away!"

PS: Bananas must be the reason monkeys are so happy all the time! I will add one here; want a quick shine on our shoes?? Take the INSIDE of the banana skin, and rub directly on the shoe...polish with dry cloth. Amazing fruit.

Apricots and Its Nutritional Values

2009-02-12T22:02:00.002+08:00

The apricot is a stone fruit and has nut within it. It is round or oblong in shape, flattened to some extent. It is similar in shape as peach, but is considerably smaller. It is yellowish in color. The fruit, which ripens on the tree alone, develops its true flavor, which is very much like that of the peach.

The apricot (which means "early matured fruit" in Latin), was discovered in China. where it has been cultivated for over 4,000 years. It has also been grown in India and Tibet from time immemorial. The apricot trees grow up to 15 feet tall, and they'll actually produce fruit for an average of 25 years.

The main nutrients and vitamins in apricots are vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and fiber. Fiber is widely known to help the colon healthy and well functional.

Apricots have a high level of beta-carotene, one of the constituents in the anti-oxidant family. Anti-oxidants are best known for its role in disease fighting and prevention. Just one apricot contains roughly 30% of the recommended US daily intake amount of beta-carotene.

When ingested, beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A by our body, which is a key vitamin that keeps your gums, hair, and skin healthy. Vitamin A helps in fighting disease due to it's immune system boosting power, and much research has been done on apricots to harness the vast amounts of beta-carotene (vitamin A), so that it can be used for healing.

Apart from fibres, apricots contain other powerful substances such as Vitamin C, and also Lycopene. Lycopene and Vitamin C can protect ourselves from heart disease, stroke, and many forms of cancer.

Benefits of Apricots:

Apricot has:

1 . A high mineral content such as phosphorus, calcium, iron and potassium. Beneficial in anaemic person.

2. A high value in vitamin A, and that is why many apricot-based consituents are used make skin care products.

3. Lycopene, this substance can help prevent cancer and help to protect LDL cholesterol from oxidation, which may help prevent heart disease.

4.The ability to help destroy intestinal worms.

5.The ability to help remove gallstones.

6.A potential in preventing cancer in organs lined by epithelial tissue, due to its high vitamin A content.

" The Hunzas, who live in the Himalayan Mountains’ of northern Pakistan and are known for their vitality and longevity, have cultivated and valued this fruit for its health‑building virtues for over 1,500 years. Greek physicians regarded it as a food medicine, while the Romans dedicated it to Venus, the goddess of love."

References:

http://www.healthvitaminsguide.com/natural-nutrients/apricot.htm

http://hubpages.com/hub/Health_Benefits_oF_Apricot

http://ezinearticles.com/?Health-Benefits-Of-Eating-Apricots&id=1124757

Honey for my Honey

2009-02-04T19:53:00.002+08:00

Honey is composed of sugars like glucose and fructose and minerals like magnesium, potassium, calcium, sodium chlorine, sulphur, iron and phosphate.

It contains vitamins B1, B2, C, B6, B5 and B3 all of which change according to the qualities of the nectar and pollen. Besides the above, copper, iodine, and zinc exist in it in small quantities. Several kinds of hormones are also present in it. Approximately one half of the human diet is derived directly or indirectly from crops pollinated by bees. Today honeybees are an essential part of a healthy agriculture economy.

If you have allergies, honey can be beneficial. If you eat honey that is local to your area, it may help prevent your seasonal allergies. Bees use the pollen from local plants and eventually it ends up in your honey.

Honey may also be good for your skin. It has the ability to attract water. It is also safe for sensitive skin. You can use it as a moisturizing mask for your skin as well as your hair. To use it as a conditioner, mix the honey with olive oil. Be sure to wash your hair thoroughly before you go outside.

If you have a sore throat, take some honey.[ Honey has powerful antimicrobial properties, which can soothe your raw tissues. Pour a teaspoon of honey into a large serving spoon and then top off the spoon with lemon juice. Swallow the concoction (without water) every few hours until symptoms clear up. Some people add a pinch of black or red pepper to increase blood circulation to the throat.] Due to its natural anti-inflammatory effect, it will help to heal the wounds more quickly.It also has different phytochemicals--chemicals found in plants and different foods--that kill viruses, bacteria, and fungus making it a good substitute for wound dressings. The taste may also take your mind off the pain. There is evidence that honey diluted in water will help with your stomach aches and dehydration.

Do you have a cut? Honey is a natural antiseptic. Medical journals cite more than 600 cases in which honey was employed to treat wounds.By applying honey to your wounds, you prevent infections. Honey contains antimicrobial agents, which prevents infections by killing the bacteria in and around your wounds. When using honey it may help to heat it up before putting it on your wound (caution test the heat before you place it on the wound).Many types of bacteria can’t survive in honey, so wounds heal, swelling eases, and tissue can grow back.

Honey may also be effective in the treatment of your ulcers.In Europe, honey has been used internally to help cure ulcers, particularly stomach ulcers. Burns, too, heal better with honey, studies show. The advantage of honey is that it not only prevents infections from occurring, it actually accelerates skin healing.. Since the sugar in honey absorbs water it helps to trap some of the moisture so that the bacteria and other microbes can’t grow as easily as in other food.

Benefits :

1. Honey is sedative, anti-fungal and nourishing

2. Soothes tissues and help retain calcium in the body

3. Antibacterial – great for both internal or external problem

4. Considered to be a swiss army knife in the world of alternative medicine.

5. Honey can boost the immune system

The use :

1. Mixture of equal quantities of honey and ginger juice is a good expectorant. It helps in colds, cough, sore throat and runny nose.

2. For asthma, mix half a gram of black pepper powder with honey and ginger juice mixture. Drink this mixture a few times a day.

3. Honey can soothe and encourage the healing of sores in the mouth or vagina.

4. A bowl of oats porridge with a spoonful of honey will calm the nerve. Ideal to be taken before an exam.

5. Honey is a great moisturizer and can be used on the skin as a natural revitalizing mask

6. Eating a little local honey will make you “immune’ to pollens in the area.

7. To improve eyesight, mix honey with carrot juice. Take one hour before meals in the morning.

8. To purify the blood, mix one glass of warm water with 1-2 teaspoonful of honey and one teaspoonful of lemon juice. Take this preparation daily before you go to the toilet. It will also reduce fat and cleans your bowel.

9. Natural honey causes a lower rise in blood sugar than that of refined sugars in people with Type 2 diabetes. A little unprocessed honey may be added in their drinks when they crave some sweetness in their diet. Just use raw honey to benefit from this goodness.

Honey Remedy for Ailments

FOR CUTS AND BURNS:

For thousands of years, honey has been recognized as one of the most natural home remedies to treat a wide range of ailments and complaints including yeast infection , athlete foot , and arthritis pain. Its antiseptic properties inhibits the growth of certain bacteria and helps keep external wounds clean and free from infection. Honey has been used as a natural cure in first aid treatment for wounds, burns and cuts as it is able to absorb moisture from the air and promote healing. Its antibacterial properties prevent infection and functions as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing both swelling and pain, and even scarring. It is widely believed that UMF Manuka is the preferred honey for wound dressing due to its strong antibacterial property.

FOR HANGOVERS:

When you get a hangover from drinking too much alcohol, combat its effects by applying honey remedy. Honey is gentle on the stomach and contains a mix of natural sugars such fructose which is known to speed up the oxidation of alcohol by the liver, acting as a 'sobering' agent. Follow this recipe: 15ml of liquid honey with 80ml of orange juice and 70ml of natural yogurt. Blend them together until smooth.

FOR SORE THROATS:

One of the better known health benefits of honey is that it is able to help treat sore throats. Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, honey not only soothes throats but can also kill certain bacteria that causes the infection. Professional singers commonly use honey to soothe their throats before performances. The Chinese believe that excess "heatiness" in the body causes sore throat and taking honey drink can be helpful. Direction: Take a spoonful of honey to soothe the inflammation or gargle with a mixture of two tablespoons of honey, four tablespoons of lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Personally, whenever I have a sore throat or cough, I especially like to take warm water mixed with Manuka UMF honey which is well-known for its anti-bacterial healing properties.

For SLEEPLESSNESS:

Unable to sleep? Use the famous Milk and Honey Remedy. Take a glass of hot milk with a teaspoon of honey to calm the soul and induce sleep. Or, add 1 or 2 teaspoons of honey to a cup of chamomile tea and sip.

For Immune System Boosters:

Honey’s antioxidant and anti-bacterial properties can help improve digestive system and help you stay healthy and fight disease. Start every brand new day with this cleansing tonic if you want to see this health benefit of honey: before breakfast, mix a spoonful of honey and lemon juice from half a lemon into a cup of warm water and drink it.

It's widely known that honey can make a real difference in your health life. So enjoy some honey today...Honey, anyone?

References:

1. http://www.oohoi.com/natural%20remedy/everyday_food/honey.htm

2. http://www.bees-online.com/HealthBenefitsOfHoney.htm

3. http://www.benefits-of-honey.com/health-benefits-of-honey.html

CORRECT WAY OF COOKING INSTANT NOODLES

2009-01-28T21:26:00.002+08:00

The correct way to cook instant noodles without harming our bodies and
health. `Normally, how we cook the instant noodles is to put the noodles
into a pot with water, throw in the powder and let it cook for around 3
minutes and then it's ready to eat.

This is *the **WRONG* method of cooking the instant noodles.

By doing this, when we actually boil the ingredients in the powder, normally
with MSG, it will change the molecular structures of the MSG causing it to
be toxic.

The other thing that you may or may not realize is that, the noodles are
coated with wax (lilin) and it will take around 4 to 5 days for the body to excrete
the wax after you have taken the noodles.*

CORRECT** **METHOD* :

1. boil the noodles in a pot with water.
2. once the noodles is cooked, take out the noodles, and* **throw* *away the
water which contains wax(lilin)**.*
3. boil another pot of water till boiling and put the noodles into the hot
boiling water and then shut the fire.
4. only at this stage when the fire is off, and while the water is very hot,
put the ingredient with the powder into the water, to make noodle soup.
5. however, if you need dry noodles, take out the noodles and add the
ingredient with the powder and toss it to get dry noodles.

Please share this info and help save a life.

Reminder:

Ramen (instant noodles) and similar products are often criticized as being unhealthy or junk food. A single serving of instant noodles is high in carbohydrates but low in fiber, vitamins and minerals. Noodles are typically fried as part of the manufacturing process, resulting in high levels of saturated fat and/or trans fat. Additionally, if served in an instant broth, it typically contains high amounts of sodium. The current U.S. Recommended Dietary Allowance of sodium for adults and children over 4 years old is 2,400 mg/day. Some brands may have over 3,000 mg of sodium per package in extreme cases.

The most recent controversy concerns dioxin and other hormone-like substances that could theoretically be extracted from the packaging and glues used to pack the instant noodles. As hot water is added, it was reasoned that harmful substances could seep into the soup. After a series of studies were conducted, various organizations requested changes in the packaging.

Another major concern on the health drawback of consuming the instant noodles is that the products can be manufactured with oxidized fat and oils if the process is not better managed. Oxidized fat and oils are health hazard substances which induce neurotoxins and which make neurocells hypoactive.

References:

1. Forwarded emails.

2. Wikipedia.

Benefits of Orange Juice

2009-01-19T21:36:00.002+08:00

Orange is one of most famous fruits in world, and it is liked by everyone. It has a very good taste and a very refreshing odour. Orange is loaded with vitamins, and the most abundant vitamin in orange is Vitamin C. These powerful vitamins protect our body against harmful elements. There are lots of benefits of orange, like it is a very good astringent for oily skin, for those who are afraid of oily skins especially during rainy seasons, applying orange juice will refresh your skin. Orange peels are also very good for skin; sun dried orange peels in powdered form can be applied on oily skin.

Other nutrition benefits of orange are that it is rich in Beta carotene, which is a powerful antioxidant guarding the health of our cells. Our brain needs folic acid for proper development which is found in Oranges. They help in maintaining blood pressure as they contain good amount of magnesium, also oranges have high potassium content which helps in maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. The food we eat is converted into energy by thiamin found in orange.

Orange juice is an integral part of diet, however it is recommended that orange should be eaten full, as the fiber content will be lost in extracting juice. Calcium in oranges ensures strong teeth and bone.

Carotenoids in oranges act as powerful antioxidants against harmful radicals that can reduce the effect of early aging. The phytonutrients in oranges enable the nutrients to work more efficiently. Vitamin B6 in oranges enhances the processing of protein and carbohydrates in food. Vitamin B6 also supports the production of hemoglobin that carries oxygen to all parts of the body. A daily glass of orange juice can help prevent the repetition of kidney stones. The fiber in orange reduces cholesterol level in the body. The natural fruit sugar, fructose in orange controls the rising blood sugar levels after a meal. So, make sure that you have that delicious fruit as a part of your everyday diet.

Orange Juice Benefits

There are different juices which are believed to offer health benefits to the body. One good example of a well known healthy juice is orange juice. Here are just a few of the many health benefits that you may be provided with when you drink orange juice.
Orange Juice Health Benefits

1. Drinking a glass of orange juice a day can keep the doctor away. Orange juice is known to contain a high percentage of Vitamin C, which is helpful in boosting the immune system. So, you will be less likely to catch various illnesses, such as colds or the flu.

2. Various medical studies show that orange juice may help lower both cholesterol levels and blood pressure levels, which are two very common problems among middle aged men and women.

3. Orange juice is thought to be very high in antioxidants. What this means is that this yummy juice may help prevent various forms of cancer, including breast cancer and prostate cancer.

4. Fairly large amounts of potassium, which is an essential nutrient for the body, can be found in orange juice.

5. Studies have shown that orange juice can help reduce the risk of heart disease, which is because it can help improve circulation.

6. Orange juice contains Folate, which plays a major role in the reproduction of new cells and can help with the healing process.

7. Research has shown that orange juice has anti-inflammatory properties. If you experience a lot of arthritis-related pain, orange juice may really help relieve it.

8. Due to the antioxidants found in orange juice, many people believe that drinking it on a regular basis may help aid in weight loss. Of course, with all of the other health benefits that orange juice has to offer, it is probably a good note to not drink the juice simply due to weight loss reasons, as it may or may not be effective.

Drink Orange Juice in Moderation

Always remember that you do not need to drink a whole lot of orange juice in order to get these healthy benefits. In fact, since orange juice is fairly high in calories, avoid drinking too much of the stuff. Be sure to check the sugar content on the label when choosing orange juice if you really want to get the highest amount of health benefits from your orange juice and, ultimately, prevent weight gain (since high sugar levels can cause it).
Orange Juice With Pulp

It is often said that orange juice containing pulp tends to even healthier for the body, but it is an issue that is often debated. If you have a stomach condition, remember that orange juice is very acidic and for that reason, it may cause you to feel an upset stomach. Due to its acidity, orange juice can also cause tooth damage if you do not care for your teeth properly after drinking it.

Source:

http://www.hairstylescut.com/feeling-good/orange-juice-benefits.htm

http://www.ayushveda.com/dietfitness/benefits-of-orange/

Benefits of Bean Sprouts

2009-01-13T07:56:00.002+08:00

Certainly bean sprouts are a storehouse of number of vitamins and minerals. Bean sprouts not just have a lovely fresh flavor but they are extremely good for your health too. The bean sprouts that are easily available for you in market to relish are generally the sprouted moong beans. But you can easily sprout aduki bens, alfalfa, lentils and soybeans at your home too.

Do you know that the sprouting process of beans not only increase the nutritive value of beans but also reduces its calorific value too. Sprouted beans increase the digestive enzymes which facilitates digestion process of your body. But before indulging into a sprouting process, make sure you allow that much amount of humidity and warmth which are needed for proper sprouting otherwise it could lead to the growth of harmful bacteria. Therefore Extreme hygiene and caution should be taken during sprouting process to avoid the food borne illnesses.

Beans contains significant amount of proteins, vitamin C and number of essential B vitamins which are needed by your body for proper functioning of various body system.

People who go on for dieting, beans sprouts serve their best purpose. Mind it, the bean sprouts forms the ideal food for calorie conscious people as beans are very low in calories and can be eaten without any dressing over it.

Beans sprouts a have an excellent flavor, can be eaten raw in forms in salads or between sandwiches.

You can even treat bean sprouts as a snack item that can be eaten at any time of day. But Make sure you use the sprouts soon after buying. Don’t keep them for long hours, they might taste sour. Go for firm sprouts which are green and yellow in color not the limp ones. Avoid the ones that are turning brown.

Bean Sprouts

Energy value (calories per serving): Low

Protein: High Fat: Low

Saturated fat: Low

Cholesterol: None

Carbohydrates: High

Fiber: Moderate Sodium: Low

Major vitamin contribution: B vitamins, folate, vitamin C Major mineral contribution: Iron, potassium

About The Nutrients in Bean Sprouts

Because beans use stored starches and sugars to produce green shoots called sprouts, sprouted beans have less carbohydrate than the beans from which they grow. But bean sprouts are a good source of dietary fiber, including insoluble cellulose and lignin in leaf parts and soluble pectin and gums in the bean. The sprouts are also high in the B vitamin folate and vitamin C.

One-half cup raw mung bean sprouts has 1.2 g dietary fiber, 31.5 mcg folate (16 percent of the RDA for a man, 17.5 percent of the RDA for a woman), and 7 mg vitamin C (11.5 percent of the RDA).

Raw beans contain anti-nutrient chemicals that inhibit the enzymes we use to digest proteins and starches; hemagglutinens (substances that make red blood cells clump together); and "factors" that may inactivate vitamin A. These chemicals are usually destroyed when the beans are heated. Sprouted beans served with the bean must be cooked before serving.

Buying Bean Sprouts

Look for: Fresh, crisp sprouts. The tips should be moist and tender. (The shorter the sprout, the more tender it will be.) It is sometimes difficult to judge bean sprouts packed in plastic bags, but you can see through to tell if the tip of the sprout looks fresh. Sprouts sold from water-filled bowls should be refrigerated, protected from dirt and debris, and served with a spoon or tongs, not scooped up by hands.

Avoid: Mushy sprouts (they may be decayed) and soft ones (they have lost moisture and vitamin C).

Storing Bean Sprouts

Refrigerate sprouts in a plastic bag to keep them moist and crisp. If you bought them in a plastic bag, take them out and repack them in bags large enough that they do not crush each other. To get the most vitamin C, use the sprouts within a few days.

Preparing Bean Sprouts

Rinse the sprouts thoroughly under cold running water to get rid of dirt and sand. Discard any soft or browned sprouts, then cut off the roots and cook the sprouts.

Do not tear or cut the sprouts until you are ready to use them. When you slice into the sprouts, you tear cells, releasing enzymes that begin to destroy vitamin C.

What Happens When You Cook Bean Sprouts

Cooking destroys some of the heat-sensitive vitamin C in sprouts. To save it, steam the sprouts quickly, stir-fry them, or add them uncooked just before you serve the dish.

How Other Kinds of Processing Affect This Food

Canning. Vitamin C is heat-sensitive, and heating the sprouts during the canning process reduces their vitamin C content.

Medical Uses and/or Benefits

Lower risk of some birth defects. As many as two of every 1,000 babies born in the United States each year may have cleft palate or a neural tube (spinal cord) defect due to their mothers' not having gotten adequate amounts of folate during pregnancy. The current RDA for Eolate is 180 mcg for a woman and 200 mcg for a man, but the FDA now recommends 400 mcg for a woman who is or may become pregnant. Taking folate supplements before becoming pregnant and continuing through the first two months of pregnancy reduces the risk of cleft palate; taking folate through the entire pregnancy reduces the risk of neural tube defects.

Lower risk of heart attack. In the spring of 1998, an analysis of data from the records for more than 80,000 women enrolled in the long-running Nurses Health Study at Harvard School of Public Health/Brigham and Woman's Hospital in Boston demonstrated that a diet providing more than 400 mcg folate and 3 mg vitamin B6 a day from either food or supplements, more than twice the current RDA for each, may reduce a woman's risk of heart attack by almost 50 percent. Although men were not included in the analysis, the results are assumed to apply to them as well. NOTE: Fruit, green leafy vegetables, beans, whole grains, meat, fish, poultry, and shellfish are good sources of vitamin B6.

Adverse Effects Associated with Bean Sprouts

Food poisoning: Reacting to an outbreak of Salmonella and E. coli O157:H7 food poisoning associated with eating raw alfalfa sprouts, the Food and Drug Administration issued a warning in 1998 and again in summer 1999, cautioning those at high risk of food-borne illness not to eat any raw sprouts. The high-risk group includes children, older adults, and people with a weakened immune system (for example, those who are HIV-positive or undergoing cancer chemotherapy). Tests conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in 1999 suggest that irradiating raw sprouts and bathing them in an antiseptic solution at the processing plant may eliminate disease organisms and prolong the vegetable's shelf life; this remains to be proven.

Source:

http://www.ayushveda.com/womens-magazine/health-benefits-of-bean-sprouts/

http://www.asianonlinerecipes.com/vegetables-guide/bean-sprouts-2.php

Benefits of Apples

2009-01-08T00:41:00.002+08:00

The apple is the pomaceous fruit of the apple tree, species Malus domestica in the rose family Rosaceae. It is one of the most widely cultivated tree fruits. The tree is small and deciduous, reaching 3 to 12 metres (9.8 to 39 ft) tall, with a broad, often densely twiggy crown.[1] The leaves are alternately arranged simple ovals 5 to 12 cm long and 3–6 centimetres (1.2–2.4 in) broad on a 2 to 5 centimetres (0.79 to 2.0 in) petiole with an acute tip, serrated margin and a slightly downy underside. Blossoms are produced in spring simultaneously with the budding of the leaves. The flowers are white with a pink tinge that gradually fades, five petaled, and 2.5 to 3.5 centimetres (0.98 to 1.4 in) in diameter. The fruit matures in autumn, and is typically 5 to 9 centimetres (2.0 to 3.5 in) diameter. The center of the fruit contains five carpels arranged in a five-point star, each carpel containing one to three seeds.

The tree originated from Central Asia, where its wild ancestor is still found today. There are more than 7,500 known cultivars of apples resulting in range of desired characteristics. Cultivars vary in their yield and the ultimate size of the tree, even when grown on the same rootstock.

At least 55 million tonnes of apples were grown worldwide in 2005, with a value of about $10 billion. China produced about 35% of this total. The United States is the second leading producer, with more than 7.5% of the world production. Turkey, France, Italy and Iran are among the leading apple exporters.

Benefits of apples

Bone Protection
French researchers found that a flavanoid called phloridzin that is found only in apples may protect post-menopausal women from osteoporosis and may also increase bone density. Boron, another ingredient in apples, also strengthens bones.

Asthma Help
One recent study shows that children with asthma who drank apple juice on a daily basis suffered from less wheezing than children who drank apple juice only once per month. Another study showed that children born to women who eat a lot of apples during pregnancy have lower rates of asthma than children whose mothers ate few apples.

Alzheimer's Prevention
A study on mice at Cornell University found that the quercetin in apples may protect brain cells from the kind of free radical damage that may lead to Alzheimer's disease.

Lower Cholesterol
The pectin in apples lowers LDL ("bad") cholesterol. People who eat two apples per day may lower their cholesterol by as much as 16 percent.

Lung Cancer Prevention
According to a study of 10,000 people, those who ate the most apples had a 50 percent lower risk of developing lung cancer. Researchers believe this is due to the high levels of the flavonoids quercetin and naringin in apples.

Breast Cancer Prevention
A Cornell University study found that rats who ate one apple per day reduced their risk of breast cancer by 17 percent. Rats fed three apples per day reduced their risk by 39 percent and those fed six apples per day reduced their risk by 44 percent.

Colon Cancer Prevention
One study found that rats fed an extract from apple skins had a 43 percent lower risk of colon cancer. Other research shows that the pectin in apples reduces the risk of colon cancer and helps maintain a healthy digestive tract.

Liver Cancer Prevention
Research found that rats fed an extract from apple skins had a 57 percent lower risk of liver cancer.

Diabetes Management
The pectin in apples supplies galacturonic acid to the body which lowers the body's need for insulin and may help in the management of diabetes.

Weight Loss
A Brazilian study found that women who ate three apples or pears per day lost more weight while dieting than women who did not eat fruit while dieting.

Source:

Wikipedia

http://www.healthdiaries.com/eatthis/10-health-benefits-of-apples.html

Diet and Sleep

2008-12-12T11:30:00.001+08:00

Most people think that sleep and diet are closely linked with each other and it is true. Some natural chemicals in the can body promote sleep as do some diet. If tea, coffee, cola drinks, or chocolate is eaten before sleep, it may keep you awake by supplying caffeine to your body system.

What are the causes of insomnia?

Insomnia is the inability to sleep. It may be caused by anxiety, depression and stress particularly if you have something important to do or to complete and the deadline is approaching, or examination is around the corner. Your brain becomes more active and as such the body releases many chemicals that can make your eyes wide open even when it is already way past midnight.

Yes, obesity too can cause insomnia to a certain extent. This is because the structure of the body of an obese people making breathing difficult and increases the likelihood of getting disruptive snoring which eventually leads to sleep apnoea.

Restless legs can also affect your sleeping pattern. Restless leg is regarded as the periodic involuntary movements, particularly when lying in bed. According to many naturopaths, this can be rooted to iron deficiency and therefore high-level iron food is recommended which includes pulses, dried apricots, dark green leafy vegetables and nuts (almonds).

How food can help sleep?

The secret is neither to keep your stomach empty nor keeping it over-full. An empty stomach leaves the digestive lining scratching each other and of course it hurts when you want to sleep. Yet, a full stomach makes your digestive system works hard to digest the food and this requires much energy and sometimes leads to indigestion, heartburn, or flatulence (the presence of gas in the stomach). Rich or spicy food also can make sleeping harder.

Food for sleep;

1. Milk: a sweetened milk drink at bedtime can encourage better sleep because the sugars can enhance the absorption of more tryptophan that is derived from milk protein. The brain then converts tryptophan to a soothing chemical called serotonin.
2. Starchy foods: Just as milk, starchy food also triggers the release of serotonin. This promotes sleep. Examples are bread and pasta.
3. Honey: stir a little honey in warm milk or chamomile tea.
4. Herbal tea: Chamomile tea, lime blossom and valerian are said to be most effective.

Decrease the intake of caffeine which is found in coffee, tea, cola drinks and chocolate.

Avoid: late-night meals that are greasy, spicy, rich or heavy.

Reminder: Don’t forget to routinely brush your teeth after eating (or drinking) as the residues may cause tooth caries.

Source: Reader’s Digest, Foods that Harm, Foods that Heal.

DRINK WATER ON EMPTY STOMACH

2008-11-14T19:26:00.000+08:00

DRINK WATER ON EMPTY STOMACH

It is popular in Japan today to drink water immediately after waking up every morning. Furthermore, scientific tests have proven a its value. We publish below a description of use of water for our readers. For old and serious diseases as well as modern illnesses the water treatment had been found successful by a Japanese med ical society as a 100% cure for the following diseases:

Headache, body ache, heart system, arthritis, fast heart beat, epilepsy, excess fatness, bronchitis asthma, TB, meningitis, kidney and urine diseases, vomiting, ga str itis, diarrhea, piles, diabetes, constipation, all eye diseases, womb, cancer and men str ual diso rd ers, ear nose and throat diseases.

METHOD OF TREATMENT

1. As you wake up in the morning before brushing teeth , drink 4 x 160ml glasses of water .....interesting

2. Brush and clean the mouth but do not eat or drink anything for 45 minutes

3. After 45 minutes you may eat and drink as normal.

4. After 15 minutes of breakfast, lunch and dinner do not eat or drink anything for 2 hours

5. Those who are old or sick and are unable to drink 4 glasses of water at the beginning may commence by taking little water and gradually increase it to 4 glasses per day.

6. The above method of treatment will cure diseases of the sick and others can enjoy a healthy life.

The following list gives the number of days of treatment required to cure/control/reduce main diseases:

1. High Blood Pressure - 30 days

2. Ga str ic - 10 days

3. Diabetes - 30 days

4. Constipation - 10 days

5. Cancer - 180 days

6. TB - 90 days

7. Arthritis patients should follow the above treatment only for 3 days in the 1st week, and from 2nd week onwa rd s - daily.

This treatment method has no side effects, however at the commencement of treatment you may have to urinate a few times.

It is better if we continue this and make this procedure as a routine work in our life.

Drink Water and Stay healthy and Active.

This makes sense .. The Chinese and Japanese drink hot tea with their meals .not cold water. Maybe it is time we adopt their drinking habit while eating!!! Nothing to lose, everything to gain...

For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you.

It is nice to have a cup of cold drink after a meal. However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you have just consumed . It will slow down the digestion.

Once this 'sludge' reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer. It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal.

Health - Very Very Important Tips

2008-11-14T19:23:00.000+08:00

Health - Very Very Important Tips

Answer the phone by LEFT ear .
Do not drink coffee TWICE a day.
Do not take pills with COOL water .
Do not have HUGE meals after 5pm.
Reduce the amount of OILY food you consume.
Drink more WATER in the morning, less at night.
Keep your distance from hand phone CHARGERS .
Do not use headphones/earphone for LONG period of time.
Best sleeping time is from 10pm at night to 6am in the morning..
Do not lie down immediately after taking medicine before sleeping.
When battery is down to the LAST grid/bar, do not answer the phone as the radiation is 1000 times.

Forward this to those whom you CARE about!

Benefits of Egg

2008-11-11T19:15:00.002+08:00

After Doing Some Research on the Internet: I Found Out These About Eggs

1. Eggs are great for the eyes. According to one study, an egg a day may prevent macular degeneraton due to the carotenoid content, specifically lutein and zeaxanthin. Both nutrients are more readily available to our bodies from eggs than from other sources.

2. In another study, researchers found that people who eat eggs every day lower their risk of developing cataracts, also because of the lutein and zeaxanthin in eggs.

3. One egg contains 6 grams of high-quality protein and all 9 essential amino acids.

4. According to a study by the Harvard School of Public Health, there is no significant link between egg consumption and heart disease. In fact, according to one study, regular consumption of eggs may help prevent blood clots, stroke, and heart attacks.

5. They are a good source of choline. One egg yolk has about 300 micrograms of choline. Choline is an important nutrient that helps regulate the brain, nervous system, and cardiovascular system.

6. They contain the right kind of fat. One egg contains just 5 grams of fat and only 1.5 grams of that is saturated fat.

7. New research shows that, contrary to previous belief, moderate consumption of eggs does not have a negative impact on cholesterol. In fact, recent studies have shown that regular consumption of two eggs per day does not affect a person's lipid profile and may, in fact, improve it. Research suggests that it is saturated fat that raises cholesterol rather than dietary cholesterol.

8. Eggs are one of the only foods that contain naturally occurring vitamin D.

9. Eggs may prevent breast cancer. In one study, women who consumed at least 6 eggs per week lowered their risk of breast cancer by 44%.

10. Eggs promote healthy hair and nails because of their high sulphur content and wide array of vitamins and minerals. Many people find their hair growing faster after adding eggs to their diet, especially if they were previously deficient in foods containing sulphur or B12.

11. Eggs are packed with a range of nutrients including protein, essential vitamins A, D, E, and B group as well as minerals iron, phosphorus and zinc. They’re relatively low in saturated fat, making them a healthy fast food for all the family.They’re low in calories with only around 80 kcals per medium egg – so they are great if you’re on a diet, especially combined with vegetables and salads as part of healthy balanced meals!

12. Eggs are one of the most nutritious foods money can buy. They contain a wealth of vitamins, minerals and protein. In particular, they contain B vitamins that perform many vital functions in the body and are especially rich in vitamin B2 riboflavin, important in the release of energy in the body, and vitamin B12 needed for normal blood formation.

13. Eggs are a source of vitamin D, which is involved in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus and is necessary for bone health. They also contain vitamin A – essential for normal growth and development and vitamin E that is necessary for cell protection from the damage caused by free radicals.

14. Eggs contain many essential minerals, in particular phosphorus, essential for healthy teeth and bones, as well as iron, which is essential for red blood cell formation and zinc, for the normal function of the immune system.

15. Trace elements are also present in eggs, especially iodine, required to make thyroid hormones, and selenium, an important antioxidant. Antioxidants work by preventing the damage caused by uncontrolled oxidation in the body and are believed to help protect against diseases such as heart disease and some cancers.

16. Eggs are a great source of choline. Although not an essential nutrient, because it can be made by the body, dietary choline has become the focus of recent interest because of its role in brain function. Studies in animals suggest that choline intake during pregnancy might influence development of the baby’s brain in the uterus, but this has not been proven in humans.

Source:
http://www.healthdiaries.com/eatthis/10-health-benefits-of-eggs.html
http://www.britegg.co.uk/nutrition05/startnutrition.html

Benefits of Colostrum

2008-10-28T20:04:00.000+08:00

For centuries colostrum has been considered a potent health aid all over the world. It's a universally accepted natural health food, usually without side effects. Over the years, researches have proven the outstanding health benefits offered by quality colostrum. No matter the age, gender, or even species, colostrum can revitalize the health of all living beings.

The list of diseases colostrum is believed to cure is impressive. Researches have confirmed that colostrum can cure anemia, asthma, chronic fatigue, chronic pain, diabetes, emphysema, gout, gingivitis, hemorrhoids, influenza, lupus, joint injuries and post-surgery pain, multiple sclerosis, nerve injuries, shingles, stress, stroke, temper outbursts, tendonitis, thyroid disorders, ulcers, and more.

People all over the world take antibiotics to fight diseases. But antibiotics are artificial and they usually come with side affects. Colostrum is as effective as an antibiotic for many diseases but without the side affects. Also, the growth factors found in colostrum can reverse or repair the damage caused by age, injury and more.

Colostrum helps athletes and body builders by building lean muscle mass and it burns fat because it has IGF-1, which metabolizes fat for energy.

And colostrum can work wonders for children, as it revitalizes memory, improves concentration, and develops a strong immune system in kids. Even pets can benefit from bovine colostrum, since the bovine variety is the only colostrum in nature that is not species-specific.

Consumption of colostrum also improves prostate health, speeds healing of injuries, improves hair growth, reduces allergy symptoms, and it can even improve your sex life. To be able to enjoy all the benefits of bovine colostrum, it should be obtained from the first milking.

Colostrum provides detailed information about colostrum, colostrum benefits, colostrum milk, colostrum and pregnancy and more. Colostrum is the sister site of Progesterone Benefit.

Fish - What is the benefits

2008-10-19T15:19:00.002+08:00

Fish has long known to be an important diet, this is because it is a good source of Protein. Fishes are staple diet among people who lives down the river or along the seaside as it is difficult to get raw meat.

Besides containing protein and other nutrients such as vitamin D and selenium, fish (either finfish or shellfish) contain a specific type of fat, omega-3 fatty acids, that may reduce the risk of developing heart disease and other medical problems. However, fish may also contain mercury and other contaminants that may have risks for health.

Foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids
The recommended daily amount of omega 3 fatty acids from fish is 200–600mg and from plants it is 1–2g.

The following are approximate amounts of omega 3 fatty acids per 60g serve of varieties of fish:

Salmon (fresh Atlantic) 1,200m
Smoked salmon 1,000mg
Canned salmon 500mg
Sardines 1,500mg
Trout (fresh rainbow) 350mg
Gemfish 300mg
Blue-eye, shark (flake), salmon, squid 250mg
Scallop or calamari 200mg
Sea mullet, abalone 170mg
Canned tuna 145mg
Orange roughy or sea perch 7mg.

Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish—especially oily fish such as salmon, sardines, and herring. These omega-3 fatty acids can help lower your blood pressure, lower your heart rate, and improve other cardiovascular risk factors.

Eating fish reduces the risk of death from heart disease, the leading cause of death in both men and women. Fish intake has also been linked to a lower risk of stroke, depression, and mental decline with age.

For pregnant women, mothers who are breastfeeding, and women of childbearing age, fish intake is important because it supplies DHA, a specific omega-3 fatty acid that is beneficial for the brain development of infants.

Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to a decreased risk of sudden death and arrhythmia; decreased thrombosis (blood clots); decreased triglyceride levels; decreased growth of atherosclerotic plaque; and lower blood pressure.

Omega-3s also show promise for reducing the risk of dementia, arthritis, asthma and kidney disease.

Possible Drawbacks for eating Fish

Despite the clear benefits of fish, warnings about polluted waters have some concerned that a buildup of toxic matter in fish, including mercury and PCBs, could diminish or counteract their good work.

Some fish contain mercury. For men and women not of childbearing age, it is not clear that mercury exposure from typical levels of fish intake has any adverse health effects. In contrast, fish intake has significant benefits for reducing the risk of death from heart disease, the number one cause of death. So, mercury exposure from fish intake should not be a major concern for men or for women not of childbearing age. The benefits of fish intake can be maximized by consuming a variety of different seafood.

Mercury may have subtle effects on the developing nervous systems of infants. Therefore, pregnant women, women who may become pregnant, those who are breastfeeding, and very young children should avoid 4 types of fish that are higher in mercury content: shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and golden bass. Other fish should still be consumed to ensure that infants receive the benefits of DHA for brain development. Light tuna has relatively low levels of mercury, and other fish, such as wild and farmed salmon and shrimp, contain very low levels of mercury.

Chemicals called dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) can accumulate in foods, including fish. The levels of these chemicals in fish, including farmed fish, are very low and similar to levels in meats and dairy products. Compared with the health benefits of fish intake, the health risks of these chemical levels are very low and should not influence individual decisions about fish intake. Compared with store-bought fish, locally caught freshwater fish may have higher chemical levels, so local advisories should be consulted.

Therefore, it is very important to know where the fishes come from before it ends up on the dinner table.

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/277124_fish11.html

http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Fish?Open

http://jama.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/full/296/15/1926

Carrots Benefits

2008-10-14T12:59:00.004+08:00

Carrot is a vegetable grown for its edible root. It is a root vegetable.Carrot contain beta carotene, a chemical that is converted into vitamin A by the body, it helps prevent night blindness. beta carotene is responsible for making the orange colour of the carrot.

Carrots are nutritional heroes, they store a goldmine of nutrients. No other vegetable or fruit contains as much carotene as carrots, which the body converts to vitamin A. This is a truly versatile vegetable and an excellent source of vitamins B and C as well as calcium pectate, an extraordinary pectin fibre that has been found to have cholesterol-lowering properties.
The carrot is an herbaceous plant containing about 87% water, rich in mineral salts and vitamins (B,C,D,E).

1. Carrots are excellent for the eyes.

2. Carrots contains large quantities of vitamin A, in the form of beta carotene.

3. Juicing a carrot removes the indigestible fiber. Thus, the nutrients in it are available to the body in much larger quantities than if the carrot was eaten whole. This is because many of the nutrients are trapped in the fibre, and while fibre aids digestion, some part of the fibre is indigestible.Thus, you don't get the benefits of the nutrients that are trapped in the indigestible fibre. Did you know that if you eat a carrot raw, you only get access to about 1% of the available beta carotene? But, when you or your child has a glass of carrot juice, you your system absorbs almost 100% or the beta carotene!

4. Carrot juice has anti-carcinogen properties. Thus, it helps prevent cancer. It is also believed to have cancer-curing properties. Beta carotene is an anti-oxidant, and thus it prevents cell degeneration. Anti-oxidants also slow down the ageing process. Another fruit which is an excellent anti-oxidant is the berry.

5. Carrots are also good for the skin. Due to the presence of Vitamin C.

6.Carrot juice is like a tonic. It will improve the overall health of you and your child, and increase immunity. In fact, two glasses of carrot juice a day can increase your immunity by as much as 70%!

7. Carrot juice is rich in so many minerals, that it's no less than a miracle juice! You could also add some spinach or beetroot to your carrot juice. Squeeze some lime into the glass, add seasoning if you must, and a tasty glass packed with nutrients is ready!

8 .Carrots have many important vitamins and minerals. They are rich in antioxidants Beta Carotene, Alpha Carotene, Phytochemicals and Glutathione, Calcium and Potassium, and vitamins A, B1, B2, C, and E, which are also considered antioxidants, protecting as well as nourishing the skin. They contain a form of calcium easily absorbed by the body. Finally they also contain Copper, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Phosphorous.and Sulphur

So why don't you try some carrots today

Carrots Benefits

2008-10-14T12:59:00.000+08:00

Helpful supplements for allergies

2008-10-07T18:42:00.002+08:00

Allergy refers to an exaggerated reaction by our immune system in response to bodily contact with certain foreign substances. It is exaggerated because these foreign substances are usually seen by the body as harmless and no response occurs in non- allergic people. Allergic people's bodies recognize the foreign substance and one part of the immune system is turned on. Allergy-producing substances are called "allergens." Examples of allergens include pollens, dust mite, molds, danders, and foods. To understand the language of allergy it is important to remember that allergens are substances that are foreign to the body and can cause an allergic reaction in certain people.

How Supplements can help

Supplements like quercetin can help inhibit the release of histamine -an inflammatory agent- and it is less likely to cause side effects. It is best to combine it with nettle which can help combat swollen nasal passages, itching and sneezing.

Other supplements worth consuming are Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Panthotenic Acid ( Vitamin B5) and Ephedra.

*Ephedra may cause insomnia and is not suitable for hypertensive, heart disease or anxiety,or if MAO inhibitor is taken.

Vitamin E and Magnesium can help too.

Supplements for Migraine

2008-09-22T19:54:00.002+08:00

Migraine is a severe, throbbing headache that usually begins on the side of the head but may affect the whole head. Attacks can persists for hours even days and this proves to be a very painful experience for the sufferer.

Migraine attacks may be triggered by:
Allergic reactions
Bright lights, loud noises, and certain odors or perfumes
Physical or emotional stress
Changes in sleep patterns
Smoking or exposure to smoke
Skipping meals
Alcohol
Menstrual cycle fluctuations, birth control pills, hormone fluctuations during the menopause transition
Tension headaches
Foods containing tyramine (red wine, aged cheese, smoked fish, chicken livers, figs, and some beans), monosodium glutamate (MSG) or nitrates (like bacon, hot dogs, and salami)
Other foods such as chocolate, nuts, peanut butter, avocado, banana, citrus, onions, dairy products, and fermented or pickled foods.

In what way supplements can help?

It is recommended that everyone who has migraine to take magnesium and calcium for a long term period. These materials are known for their effects in maintaining healthy blood vessels and low levels of magnesium are common in people who have migraine. Other herbs that can help are Feverfew and Rosemary. Whereas, Riboflavin, Vitamin C and Pantothenic acid (also called Vitamin B5) can help too.

To minimise the occurence of migraine you may ask yourself or find out, what causes and what can eliminate your migraine triggers. You may also tery biofeedback or relaxation techinque to help you cope with stress. Exercise regularly and drink plenty of water.

Saw Palmetto

2008-09-21T17:51:00.002+08:00

The saw palmetto, a small palm tree that grows wild from Texas to South Carolina, gets its name from the spiny, saw-toothed stems that lie at the base of each leaf. Its medicinal properties are derived from the blue-black berries, which are usually harvested in August and September.

USES:

Shrinks the prostate; reduces symptoms of BPH, such as urgent or frequent urination or urinary leaking. Other claims are made with little or no evidence—for example, that saw palmetto helps treat baldness, low libido, bladder disorders, prostatitis, and migraines.

Native Americans used the fruit for food, but also in the treatment of a variety of urinary and reproductive system problems. The Mayans drank it as a tonic, and the Seminoles used the berries as an expectorant and antiseptic.

How It Is Used

The ripe fruit of saw palmetto is used in several forms, including ground and dried fruit or whole berries. It is available as a liquid extract, tablets, capsules, and as an infusion or a tea.

Possible side effects:

Mild abdominal pain, nausea, dizziness and headache.

Please consult your doctor if problems persists.

Acidophilus

2008-09-01T20:49:00.002+08:00

Some 500 species of bacteria inhabit the digestive tract. Among these, the most beneficial is acidophilus and bifidus - two strains of lactobacilli bacteria. Both of them are probiotics, meaning that they help to maintain proper balance of health-promoting bacteria in the intestine. They also manufacture natural antibiotics that kill dangerous microbes.

Among foods that encourage the growth of lactobacillus in the body are green leafy vegetables which contains chlorophyll, slippery alm powder and jerusalem artichokes, milk products e.g. yoghurt and whey powder: miso and sauerkraut.

Yoghurt, a traditional source of acidophilus has been used as an elixir in folk medicine for a long time.

Uses:

Acidophilus helps to restore a normal balance of healthy bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract and vagina, which combats digestive disorders and vaginal yeast infections. It may contain cancer-fighting agents, and may possibly lower serum cholesterol levels. Acidophilus helps to manufacture certain vitamins in the intestines, including vitamins B12 and K, thiamine and folic acid.

Acidophilus may prevent or control vaginal yeast infection or Candida albicans. Acidophilus also creates an inhospitable environment for harmful types of Escherichia coli, as well as for salmonella, streptococcus and many other strains of bacteria that can be dangerous or even life threatening.