Home Remedies and Natural Cures

How to Change Your Diet to Help IBS

GrannyMed Staff — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 20:07:33 +0000

Find out what you can do to help relieve Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Nopal Cactus: The Newest Superfood!

Stephanie Pierce — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 16:18:15 +0000

There is now a new superfood available, and it goes by the name of Nopal Cactus. While this has been a staple for centuries in Mexican food, recent studies have shown that prickly pear cactus (as it is more commonly known) has many antioxidant and cholesterol-reducing benefits. These come from betalains contained within the cactus.

The ways to cook and eat Nopal Cactus are varied. You can eat the plant raw, put slices in scrambled eggs or omelets, or even serve fried or sautéed. One of the most popular ways is to have it in a salad with tomatoes, onions, jalapeno peppers and cilantro.

The pears are the fruit of the Nopal Cactus and have quite a distinctive taste. It has been described as a mix between bubblegum and watermelon! To serve, the spines and skin must first be removed. The remaining flesh and seed are both edible and can be served in a variety of ways.

The betalains contained within prickly pear fruit have been the subject of much scientific debate recently. This is because the fruit may be one of the richest sources available in the world.

Betalains are glycosides and have been shown to reduce blood glucose levels, and as such there are many benefits for diabetics. The antioxidant benefits could also potentially help protect the immune system. Definitely a superfood.

What You Should Know About Fibroids

Stephanie Pierce — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 16:12:55 +0000

According to “What your Doctor May Not Tell You About Fibroids”, around 77 percent of women may have fibroids. Sadly, many women may not know they have them, even though they can result in a significant reduction in the quality of life.

What are Fibroids:

Fibroids are growths on the uterus. While they are small and noncancerous, they can cause symptoms such as pain, bleeding and in some cases even infertility. A hysterectomy is the most common treatment to remove fibroids. There has been much debate over what causes fibroids, however it appears that high estrogen levels can be a cause.

How to Minimize Risk of Fibroids:

Start eating foods that lower your estrogen levels. Generally foods that are high in fiber do this. A high fiber diet including apples, whole grains, oatmeal, nuts and seeds is a good place to start, and you should try to ensure that you have between 20 to 30 grams of fiber a day. In addition, eating a vegetable-based diet - because it also increases your phytoestrogens intake - helps to decrease fibroids.

Certain foods can also increase your estrogen levels. Foods such as coffee, dairy products and non-organic meats should be avoided. In addition you should avoid contact with hormone drugs and pesticides.

I take Methotrexate for Rheumatoid Arthritis. I just heard that there is a shortage. Have you heard anything about this and should I be concerned? Thank you.

azdeb1 — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:58:31 +0000

Essential Supplements for Crohn's Disease Patients

Stephanie Pierce — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 19:12:23 +0000

The effects of Crohn’s disease, and even the treatments, can make it difficult for your body to absorb vitamins and minerals. However, if you take the right supplements you can ensure that you still get your daily requirements and stay healthy.

The most important ones are listed below:

• Iron: Crohn's can cause internal bleeding, so iron is a must if you want to offset anemia.

• Vitamin B12: Often the part of your intestine that absorbs B12 is removed or damaged with Crohn's. Therefore, a supplement is essential.

• Folic acid: This helps to form new cells.

• Calcium: People with Crohn's tend to be calcium deficient. This is definitely a supplement you need.

• Magnesium: This helps keep your heart and body functioning well. If you have diarrhea from Crohn's, then chances are you are deficient.

• Zinc: This helps you to grow and helps your immune system.

• Vitamin A: As with B12, the part of your intestine that absorbs this vitamin is often damaged or removed.

• Vitamin D: There is a link between Crohn's and Vitamin D deficiency. Get out in the sun or take a supplement!

• Vitamin E: This antioxidant will keep you healthy and well.

• Vitamin K: Vitamin K is hard to absorb if you have Crohn's. As such, a supplement is normally necessary.