Tag Archive | Heal

Iodine treats breast cancer and more, overwhelming evidence

Iodine treats breast cancer and more, overwhelming evidence

Image

© Jpn Journal Cancer Research
Figure from Funahashi 2001. Breast cancer induced in rats with a carcinogenic chemical. Left column Images are rats pre-treated with Iodine (mekabu seaweed) showing no breast cancer tumors. Right column images are untreated (Control) rats with large breast cancer tumors visible at the red arrows).

A good friend of ours just went through an ordeal with breast cancer. The incidence of breast cancer has increased to 1 in 8 women, with 4,000 new cases weekly. You might ask, could there be a preventive measure which is safe, cheap and widely available that has been overlooked?

The answer is YES, and it’s the essential mineral, Iodine, which was added to table salt in 1924 as part of a national program to prevent Goiter. Goiter is a form of thyroid enlargement caused by iodine deficiency.

Our Diet is Iodine Deficient

Iodized salt is the major source of dietary iodine for Americans. Yet, many of us have been told by the doctor to avoid salt, because salt causes high blood pressure. Those following this advice will have very little dietary iodine. In fact, we have a generalized iodine deficiency in our population. Currently 15% of the US adult female population is classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as iodine deficient. (9) Although all processed foods contain a large quantity of salt, none of this added salt is iodized. There is no iodine added.

The RDA for Iodine is too Low for Optimal Health

According to Guy Abraham MD, our dietary intake of Iodine is too low. This was set at 150 mcg per day as the government recommended daily allowance (RDA). Dr. Guy Abraham recommends higher Iodine intake of 12.5 mg per day, corresponding to the Japanese daily Iodine intake. Higher dietary Iodine explains why the Japanese have the lowest rates for cancer of the breast, prostate and thyroid.

How Safe is Iodine Supplementation?

Iodine is the only trace element that can be ingested safely in amounts up to 100,000 times the RDA. Potassium iodide has been prescribed safely to large numbers pulmonary (COPD) patients in amounts of up to 6 grams per day for several years. This is a well known treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) which helps mobilize lung secretions. (18)

FDA recommends 165 mg of Iodine

The FDA has officially stated that Iodine supplementation is safe and actually recommends 165 mg of Iodine for adults in case of Radiation Emergency to protect the population from thyroid cancer. (17)

Iodine Allergy?

“Iodine allergy” is a misnomer since this name applies to allergy to iodinated radiographic contrast agents, and not to elemental iodine which is quite different chemically. (10) Elemental Iodine is an essential mineral and required for health. Deficiency of Iodine in the developing embryo causes cretinism, and deficiency in the developing child causes goiter. As such, any developing embryo that is allergic to iodine would not survive more than a few weeks, and therefore there can be no allergy to elemental iodine, same as there can not be an allergy to oxygen or water, also essential nutrients.

Iodine, a well known topical antiseptic and antimicrobial agent, also directly kills cancer cells and serves as the key player in our body’s surveillance system for removing abnormal pre-cancer cells. There is considerable medical research to support this statement.

Iodine Deficiency Causes Fibrocystic Breast Disease, Breast Cancer and Thyroid Cancer – Dr. Eskin

Dr. B.A. Eskin published 80 papers over 30 years researching iodine and breast cancer, and he reports that iodine deficiency causes breast cancer and thyroid cancer in humans and animals.(11)(12) Iodine deficiency is also known to cause a pre-cancerous condition called fibrocystic breast disease. (13) Ghent published a paper in 1993 which showed iodine supplementation works quite well to reverse and resolve fibrocystic changes of the breast, and this is again the subject of a current clinical study.(14)(15)

Despite its obvious potential, not much has been done with Iodine treatment over the past 40 years in the United States. Since iodine isn’t patentable and is therefore unlikely to be profitable to market, there is no money to fund studies for “FDA approval”. However, FDA approval is not required since Iodine is already an additive to table salt at the supermarket.

Iodine Deficiency – Thyroid Cysts and Nodules

As an interventional radiologist working in the hospital for 25 years, a large part of my job was evaluating thyroid abnormalities, nodules, and cysts with ultrasound, radionuclide scans, and needle biopsy. Although it was obvious these common thyroid abnormalities were due to iodine deficiency, I often wondered why none of the patients ever received iodine supplementation. The obvious answer is they should have been. The protective role of iodine is ignored by mainstream medicine.

Iodine Deficiency – Fibrocystic Breast Disease

Part of my day as a radiologist was spent reading mammograms and breast ultrasound studies. Fibrocystic breast disease was quite common, and these women would return for needle aspiration procedure of the many breast cysts, and needle biopsy of the benign solid nodules. Many of these ladies returned multiple times for the procedures because the medical system had no useful treatment to offer them. We now know there is a very useful medical treatment. Iodine supplementation not only resolves breast cysts and fibrocystic breast disease, it also resolves ovarian cysts and thyroid cysts. Actually Iodine supplementation has always been available, but again this is ignored by mainstream medicine, and hospital based physicians are unaware of it.

Goiter is Caused by Iodine Deficiency

Iodine deficiency is the direct cause of Goiter, as well as enlargement of the thyroid gland with thyroid nodules and cysts. In severe cases, the enlargement can be massive. See image at left courtesy of wikimedia commons showing goiter in the neck caused by Iodine Deficiency. The thyroid nodule epidemic is also caused by Iodine Deficiency.

Which Iodine Supplement to Use?

There are many Iodine supplements. Lugol’s Solution has been used for many years. We use Iodoral from Optimox (16), a company owned by Guy Abraham, a former professor of obstetrics and gynecology at UCLA who started “The Iodine Project” in 1997, and engaged two family practice physicians, Jorge Flechas and David Brownstein to carry out clinical studies of the hypothesis that the body needs 12.5 mg of iodine a day.

More than 4,000 patients in this project consumed Iodine supplements from 12 to 50 mg per day, and in those with diabetes, up to 100 mg a day. They reported their findings that Iodine does indeed reverse fibrocystic disease; diabetic patients require less insulin; hypothyroid patients require less thyroid medication; symptoms of fibromyalgia resolve, and patients with migraine headaches stop having them.

The Nobel laureate Dr. Albert Szent Györgi (1893 – 1986), the physician who discovered vitamin C, used Iodine freely in his medical practice. The standard dose of potassium iodide given in those days was 1 gram, which contains 770 mg of iodine. Dr. Albert Szent Györgi writes:

“When I was a medical student, iodine in the form of KI (Potassium Iodide) was the universal medicine. Nobody knew what it did, but it did something and did something good. We students used to sum up the situation in this little rhyme: If ye don’t know where, what, and why Prescribe ye then K and I”

Iodoral is available without a prescription as a nutritional supplement from Amazon or from VRP (Vitamin Research Products).(21) A bottle of 90 tablets is about 25 dollars plus shipping.(21) Visit the hypothyroidism page on my web site for more thyroid related information.(22)

Iodoral is an important part of our breast cancer prevention program.

Spontaneous Regression of Breast Cancer

David Brownstein MD reports three cases of spontaneous regression of breast cancer after women take iodine supplementation.(1) (This is reported on page 63 of the Iodine Book by David Brownstein MD.)

Joan, an English Teacher

The first patient, Joan a 63 year old English teacher, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1989, declined conventional treatment, and took 50 mg per day of Iodoral, (Iodine). Six weeks later, a PET scan (left image) showed, “all of the existing tumors were disintegrating“.

Delores

The second patient, 73 year old Delores, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003. She declined conventional treatment with radiation and chemotherapy. Instead, Dolores took 50 mg of Iodoral daily. A follow up ultrasound of the breast 18 months later showed,” It appears that these malignancies have diminished in size since the last examination. Interval improvement is definitely seen,” Two years later a follow up mammogram and ultrasound failed to show any abnormality and were read by the radiologist as normal.

Joyce

The third patient, 52 year old Joyce was diagnosed with breast cancer two years prior, and started on Iodoral 50 mg per day. Three years after starting Iodoral, her follow up mammograms and ultrasound exams show decreasing size of the tumor with no progression.(1)

Iodine Deficiency Causes Breast Cancer – The Overwhelming EvidenceHuman Studies of Areas with Low Iodine

Iodine deficiency is associated with a higher rate of goiter and breast cancer. Similarly, higher dietary Iodine intake is associated with less goiter and breast cancer. For example, Japan has the highest dietary intake of iodine (13 mg per day), and the lowest rates for goiter and breast cancer. However, when Japanese women immigrate and change dietary intake of Iodine to the lower 150 mcg/day in America, breast cancer rates increase.(1)

Iceland is another country with high Iodine intake and low rates for goiter and breast cancer. The high dietary iodine came from the fishing industry before WWI. In those days, the fish meal was fed to dairy cows providing milk with high iodine content. After WWI, the fish meal was eliminated from the dairy cows, and breast cancer rates soared ten-fold. (2)

Animal studies

Iodine deficient diets in animals induces breast cancer and goiter.(1)

Iodine Research from Mexico, India and Japan.

India

The Shrivastava group in India reported molecular iodine induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) in human breast cancer cell cultures. “Iodine showed cytotoxic effects in the cultured human breast cancer cells”. (3)

Mexico

From Mexico, the Carmen Aceves Velasco Group reported Iodine to be safe, with no harmful effects on thyroid function, and an anti-proliferative effect on human breast cancer cell cultures. (5)(6)(7) Their 2009 paper reported the mechanism by which Iodine works as an anti-cancer agent. Iodine binds to membrane lipids called lactones forming iodo-lactones which regulate apoptosis (programmed cell death). Iodine causes apoptosis which makes cancer cells undergo programmed cell death.(4) Dr. Aceves concluded that continuous molecular iodine treatment has a “potent antineoplastic effect” on the progression of mammary cancer. (10)

Japan

From Japan, Dr Funahashi reported a common seaweed food containing high iodine content is more beneficial than chemotherapy on breast cancer . “He found that administration of Lugol’s iodine or iodine-rich Wakame seaweed to rats treated with the carcinogen dimethyl benzanthracene suppressed the development of mammary tumors. The same group demonstrated that seaweed induced apoptosis in human breast cancer cells with greater potency than that of fluorouracil, a chemotherapeutic agent used to treat breast cancer.“(8)

Mechanism of Action-Altering Gene Expression

A 2008 paper by Bernard A. Eskin MD showed that Iodine actually altered gene expression in breast cancer cells, inducing programmed cell death. (9)

Lung Cancer and Iodine

A 2003 study by Ling Zhang showed that molecular Iodine caused lung cancer cells to undergo programmed cell death (apoptosis). These lung cancer cells had been genetically modified to increase iodine uptake.(12) Interestingly, a 1993 case report describes spontaneous remission of lung cancer in a patient incidentally treated with Amiodorone which contains iodine (about 9 mg per day)(13)

In Conclusion

Current Iodine research calls for use of molecular Iodine for all patients with breast cancer. (10)(11) Other cancers such as lung and prostate may also benefit. Further research on Iodine as cancer chemotherapy should receive top priority for NIH funding.

How to Obtain Iodine Tablets

Iodine (Iodoral) is available on the internet without a prescription.

Financial Disclosure: The author has no financial interest in the Iodine Book mentioned above, or in any company that manufactures Iodine Supplements.

Disclaimer: This article is not intended as medical advice. Make sure to discuss with your doctor and follow your own personal doctor’s recommendations when contemplating any changes to your diet, medications, or medical treatment programs.

References

All About Wellness Solutions sends an overwhelming THANK YOU to Jeffrey Dach MD for this excellent article.  I have been aware of the breast cancer/ fibrocystic connection for many years. With Fukushima continuing to add radiation to the planetary environment, iodine is even more important to our health.

Research Proves When You Change Your Thoughts With Meditation, You Change Your DNA and Your Health, You Become a Healthier You

Research Proves When You Change Your Thoughts With Meditation, You Change Your DNA and Your Health, You Become a Healthier You

Researchers Finally Show How Mindfulness and Your Thoughts Can Induce Specific Molecular Changes To Your Genes

Source: Waking Times – 12/05/13, Michael Forrester

https://i0.wp.com/www.wakingtimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/WIKI-DNA3.jpg

With evidence growing that training the mind or inducing specific modes of consciousness can have beneficial health effects, scientists have sought to understand how these practices physically affect the body. A new study by researchers in Wisconsin, Spain, and France reports the first evidence of specific molecular changes in the body following a period of intensive mindfulness practice.

The study investigated the effects of a day of intensive mindfulness practice in a group of experienced meditators, compared to a group of untrained control subjects who engaged in quiet non-meditative activities. After eight hours of mindfulness practice, the meditators showed a range of genetic and molecular differences, including altered levels of gene-regulating machinery and reduced levels of pro-inflammatory genes, which in turn correlated with faster physical recovery from a stressful situation.

“To the best of our knowledge, this is the first paper that shows rapid alterations in gene expression within subjects associated with mindfulness meditation practice,” says study author Richard J. Davidson, founder of the Center for Investigating Healthy Minds and the William James and Vilas Professor of Psychology and Psychiatry at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

“Most interestingly, the changes were observed in genes that are the current targets of anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs,” says Perla Kaliman, first author of the article and a researcher at the Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona, Spain (IIBB-CSIC-IDIBAPS), where the molecular analyses were conducted.

The study was published in the Journal Psychoneuroendocrinology.

Mindfulness-based trainings have shown beneficial effects on inflammatory disorders in prior clinical studies and are endorsed by the American Heart Association as a preventative intervention. The new results provide a possible biological mechanism for therapeutic effects.

Gene Activity Can Change According To Perception

According to Dr. Bruce Lipton, gene activity can change on a daily basis. If the perception in your mind is reflected in the chemistry of your body, and if your nervous system reads and interprets the environment and then controls the blood’s chemistry, then you can literally change the fate of your cells by altering your thoughts.

In fact, Dr. Lipton’s research illustrates that by changing your perception, your mind can alter the activity of your genes and create over thirty thousand variations of products from each gene. He gives more detail by saying that the gene programs are contained within the nucleus of the cell, and you can rewrite those genetic programs through changing your blood chemistry.

In the simplest terms, this means that we need to change the way we think if we are to heal cancer. “The function of the mind is to create coherence between our beliefs and the reality we experience,” Dr. Lipton said. “What that means is that your mind will adjust the body’s biology and behavior to fit with your beliefs. If you’ve been told you’ll die in six months and your mind believes it, you most likely will die in six months. That’s called the nocebo effect, the result of a negative thought, which is the opposite of the placebo effect, where healing is mediated by a positive thought.”

That dynamic points to a three-party system: there’s the part of you that swears it doesn’t want to die (the conscious mind), trumped by the part that believes you will (the doctor’s prognosis mediated by the subconscious mind), which then throws into gear the chemical reaction (mediated by the brain’s chemistry) to make sure the body conforms to the dominant belief. (Neuroscience has recognized that the subconscious controls 95 percent of our lives.)

Now what about the part that doesn’t want to die–the conscious mind? Isn’t it impacting the body’s chemistry as well? Dr. Lipton said that it comes down to how the subconscious mind, which contains our deepest beliefs, has been programmed. It is these beliefs that ultimately cast the deciding vote.

“It’s a complex situation,” said Dr. Lipton. People have been programmed to believe that they’re victims and that they have no control. We’re programmed from the start with our mother and father’s beliefs. So, for instance, when we got sick, we were told by our parents that we had to go to the doctor because the doctor is the authority concerning our health. We all got the message throughout childhood that doctors were the authority on health and that we were victims of bodily forces beyond our ability to control. The joke, however, is that people often get better while on the way to the doctor. That’s when the innate ability for self-healing kicks in, another example of the placebo effect.

Mindfulness Practice Specifically Affects Regulatory Pathways

The results of Davidson’s study show a down-regulation of genes that have been implicated in inflammation. The affected genes include the pro-inflammatory genes RIPK2 and COX2 as well as several histone deacetylase (HDAC) genes, which regulate the activity of other genes epigenetically by removing a type of chemical tag. What’s more, the extent to which some of those genes were downregulated was associated with faster cortisol recovery to a social stress test involving an impromptu speech and tasks requiring mental calculations performed in front of an audience and video camera.

Biologists have suspected for years that some kind of epigenetic inheritance occurs at the cellular level. The different kinds of cells in our bodies provide an example. Skin cells and brain cells have different forms and functions, despite having exactly the same DNA. There must be mechanisms–other than DNA–that make sure skin cells stay skin cells when they divide.

Perhaps surprisingly, the researchers say, there was no difference in the tested genes between the two groups of people at the start of the study. The observed effects were seen only in the meditators following mindfulness practice. In addition, several other DNA-modifying genes showed no differences between groups, suggesting that the mindfulness practice specifically affected certain regulatory pathways.

The key result is that meditators experienced genetic changes following mindfulness practice that were not seen in the non-meditating group after other quiet activities — an outcome providing proof of principle that mindfulness practice can lead to epigenetic alterations of the genome.

Previous studies in rodents and in people have shown dynamic epigenetic responses to physical stimuli such as stress, diet, or exercise within just a few hours.

“Our genes are quite dynamic in their expression and these results suggest that the calmness of our mind can actually have a potential influence on their expression,” Davidson says.

“The regulation of HDACs and inflammatory pathways may represent some of the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic potential of mindfulness-based interventions,” Kaliman says. “Our findings set the foundation for future studies to further assess meditation strategies for the treatment of chronic inflammatory conditions.”

Subconscious Beliefs Are Key

Too many positive thinkers know that thinking good thoughts–and reciting affirmations for hours on end–doesn’t always bring about the results that feel-good books promise.

Dr. Lipton didn’t argue this point, because positive thoughts come from the conscious mind, while contradictory negative thoughts are usually programmed in the more powerful subconscious mind.

“The major problem is that people are aware of their conscious beliefs and behaviors, but not of subconscious beliefs and behaviors. Most people don’t even acknowledge that their subconscious mind is at play, when the fact is that the subconscious mind is a million times more powerful than the conscious mind and that we operate 95 to 99 percent of our lives from subconscious programs.

“Your subconscious beliefs are working either for you or against you, but the truth is that you are not controlling your life, because your subconscious mind supersedes all conscious control. So when you are trying to heal from a conscious level–citing affirmations and telling yourself you’re healthy–there may be an invisible subconscious program that’s sabotaging you.”

The power of the subconscious mind is elegantly revealed in people expressing multiple personalities. While occupying the mind-set of one personality, the individual may be severely allergic to strawberries. Then, in experiencing the mind-set of another personality, he or she eats them without consequence.

The new science of epigenetics promises that every person on the planet has the opportunity to become who they really are, complete with unimaginable power and the ability to operate from, and go for, the highest possibilities, including healing our bodies and our culture and living in peace.

About the Author

Michael Forrester is a spiritual counselor and is a practicing motivational speaker for corporations in Japan, Canada and the United States.

Source: Waking Times – 12/05/13, Michael Forrester

***REPOSTERS NOTE

Thank You To Michael Forrester and Waking Times for this excellent post.

Meditation returned sanity to my life during a very stressful time for our family. I was losing family members to cancer left and right, my father was in the last stages of terminal bone cancer, my husband had suffered a very debilitating back injury, our son was very high level ADHD, our daughter was suffering excruciating stomach pain which had her spending much of her life crying due to pain and I had a boss who had caused 17 separate stress leaves in a staff of 15 in an 18 month period. I started to suffer from symptoms of extreme anxiety. I had researched anti-depressants and was not comfortable with the side effects.

Learning to meditate allowed me to survive mentally and be present and fully functional as a mother, wife, daughter, sister, co-worker and friend. It has since been my goto solution. It in part has led me to become a Wellness Coach.

Using a number of solutions together has been very effective in helping each client deal with stress and pain management. This multi pronged approach which includes meditation, has significant success helping clients. They had tried the full arsenal of traditional and complimentary approaches in attempts to return to health and wellness to no avail.

Various meditation techniques have become one part of their day-to-day management of their personal situation. Most clients choose to continue with quarterly quantum biofeedback training tune-up sessions to make sure they stay on track. I work with clients over long distances through telephone and Skype saving them significant travel time and disruption. My preference will always be one to one, face to face sessions. However, when time and distance prevent that option, the distance sessions have provided a workable and effective solution that achieves results.

Learning to meditate and achieve that state of calmness and peace can be challenging but anything truly worthwhile is worth the effort. Being an easily distracted person, if I were to attempt to learn meditation now, I would use the Internet to find a meditation recording done in a voice that was very relaxing and easy to listen to. Get good head phones that block out distracting sounds and work with the guided meditation. DO NOT GIVE UP!

Consider learning meditation with Buddhist monks if that is an option. Some of the most blissful mediations I have experienced have occurred in group settings that are based in eastern religions.

Bottom Line – Learn to live in Mindfulness through the use of  daily Meditation. The positive changes you will experience in your life and your health will be well worth the time and effort you invest in finding a or creating a meditation that works for you.

Be consistent and you will reap consistently better results!****

101 Uses for Coconut Oil – A True, Whole Body-Mind Anti-Aging Solution & Skin Rejuvenator

101 Uses for Coconut Oil

****Reposters Note – Thank you to for this excellent post, 101 Uses for Coconut Oil.

Coconut Oil is one of those choices that is sure to benefit everyone who chooses to add it to their diets. Coincidentally,  it is as good for us externally as internally. Add to that, it is an  excellent all natural tool for all sorts of little jobs around the home. It is truly astonishing how many (not so natural) products it can replace in your cupboard, medicine cabinets and around the home.

Our local Costco carries an excellent Organic Cold Pressed Virgin Coconut Oil 1.5 kg (54 oz) for around $16.00.***

Coconut 101 Uses for Coconut Oil

I’ve said before that I am with coconut oil like the dad in “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” is with windex… I use it for everything. Right now, I have a five gallon bucket of it sitting next to my desk because we use so much and I don’t have anywhere else to keep it…

Today, I’m sharing my top 101 (yes 101!!) uses for coconut oil:

Uses for Coconut Oil

  1. In cooking as a great oil with a high smoke point. Great for baking, stir-frys or as a dairy free replacement to butter.
  2. Taken supplementally for daily energy
  3. As a coffee creamer when emulsified into coffee (The only way I’ll drink coffee)
  4. On the skin as a basic lotion
  5. In homemade lotion bars for soft, smooth skin
  6. In homemade deodorant or deodorant bars
  7. As an eye-makeup remover
  8. As a cloth diaper safe diaper cream (just rub on baby’s bottom)
  9. In making your own Remineralizing Toothpaste
  10. To lighten age spots when rubbed directly on the skin
  11. To prevent stretch marks during pregnancy
  12. To support healthy thyroid function
  13. In homemade Mayo without the high PUFA vegetable oils
  14. To help increase sun tolerance and avoid burning
  15. As a naturally SPF 4 sunscreen
  16. In homemade lotion recipes
  17. To get rid of cradle cap on baby- just massage in to head, leave on for a few minutes and gently rinse with a warm wash cloth
  18. Topically to kill yeast or yeast infections
  19. As a delicious tropical massage oil
  20. It’s high Lauric acid and MCFA content helps boost metaboism
  21. A tiny dab rubbed on your hands and then through hair will help get rid of friz
  22. As an intensive nighttime facial moisturizer
  23. Mixed with equal parts sugar for a smoothing body scrub (use in the shower)
  24. Rubbed on lips as a natural chap stick
  25. Topically, can help skin heal faster after injury or infection
  26. Directly on the perineum to help heal after birth
  27. As an incredibly intensive natural conditioner- Rub into dry hair, put a shower cap on and leave for several hours
  28. On feet to fight athlete’s foot or tor fungus
  29. In place of Lanolin cream on nursing nipples to sooth irritation (also great for baby!)
  30. Can help sooth psoriasis or eczema
  31. There is some evidence that regular ingestion of coconut oil can help prevent or reverse Alzheimers
  32.  With apple cider vinegar as a natural treatment for lice that actually works
  33. In natural Homemade Sunscreen
  34. In healthy brain boosting snack for kids like Coconut Clusters
  35. In a filling and energy boosting Brain Powder Smoothie
  36. Rub coconut oil on the inside of your nose to help alleviate allergy symptoms
  37. Nursing moms can take 3-4 tablespoons a day (and Vitamin D) to increase milk supply and nutrients
  38. There is some evidence that coconut oil helps digestion and may even kill intestinal parasites or yeast
  39. Mix a tablespoon with a tablespoon of chia seeds for an all-day energy boost (do NOT take this at night!)
  40. Can help improve insulin levels
  41. Oil pulling with coconut oil and a drop of oregano oil helps improve gum health
  42. Can help improve cholesterol ratios
  43. Blend a tablespoon into hot tea to help speed recovery from cold or flu
  44. In Homemade Natural Bug-Off Lotion Bars
  45. As a replacement for vegetable oils in any recipe
  46. Better for high-temperature cooking than olive or vegetable oils
  47. Can help reduce appearance of varicose veins
  48. After initial heat is gone, can help speed healing of sunburn
  49. Is an immediate source of energy when eaten and isn’t stored as fat
  50. As a natural personal lubricant that won’t disturb vaginal flora
  51. As a naturally antibacterial skin cream
  52. In natural homemade diaper cream
  53. As a natural shave cream and after shave lotion
  54. When used consistently on skin it can help get rid of cellulite
  55. To season cast iron skillets
  56. It’s anti-inflammatory properties can help lessen arthritis
  57. Can reduce the itch of mosquito bites
  58. Can help resolve acne when used regularly
  59. Can be rubbed into scalp daily to stimulate hair growth
  60. I’ve used in kids ears to help speed ear infection healing
  61. On split ends to de-frizz
  62. A small amount can be rubbed into real leather to soften and condition (shiny leather only… test a small area first)
  63. By itself as a great tanning oil
  64. Mixed with salt to remove dry skin on feet
  65. Can help speed weight loss when consumed daily
  66. Can help improve sleep when taken daily
  67. Can be used to speed healing of fungal infections when taken internally and used externally
  68. A tablespoon melted into a cup of warm tea can help sooth a sore throat
  69. To help sooth the itch of chicken pox or poison ivy
  70. It has been shown to increase absorption of calcium and magnesium
  71. Internally as part of the protocol to help remineralize teeth
  72.  Some evidence shows that the beneficial fats in coconut oil can help with depression and anxiety
  73. By itself as a natural deodorant
  74. By itself or with baking soda as a naturally whitening toothpaste
  75. For pets struggling with skin issues when used externally
  76. Some evidence suggests that the beneficial fats in coconut oil are helpful for those with Autism
  77. In homemade vapor rub
  78. As a safe cooking oil for deep frying
  79. A tablespoon taken before each meal can help improve digestion
  80. Can be taken in warm ginger tea to sooth heartburn or nausea
  81. As a completely natural baby lotion
  82. On hands after doing dishes to avoid dry skin
  83. Mixed with catnip, rosemary, or mint essential oils as a natural bug repellent
  84. Can be used on mom’s nipple and baby’s mouth to help treat thrush
  85. Many use it as an anti-aging facial moisturizer
  86. Use to make coconut cream concentrate for a brain boosting snack
  87. Can be used internally and externally to speed recovery from UTIs
  88. When taken regularly, it can help fight candida
  89. When taken regularly, it can boost hormone production
  90. Can relieve the pain of hemorrhoids when used topically
  91. Can boost circulation and help those who often feel cold
  92. On cuticles to help nails grow
  93. Rub into elbows daily to help alleviate dry, flaky elbows
  94. Add to smoothies to give them a nutritional boost
  95. Internally during pregnancy to help provide baby necessary fats for development (especially when taken with Fermented Cod Liver Oil)
  96. In any recipes where vegetable oils are used
  97. Whipped with shea butter for a soothing body balm
  98. One reader swears by using coconut oil to treat yeast infection. She suggests soaking a tampon in it and inserting the tampon for a few hours.
  99. Naturally clears up cold sores
  100. Ingesting coconut oil daily can help with allergy symptoms
  101. Ingesting coconut oil daily can increase mental alertness
You can also check out my recipe index or Start Here Page for many more recipes that use coconut oil!

 What Kind of Coconut Oil?

For external uses, expeller pressed or other types of refined coconut oil will work, but for internal use, an unrefined virgin coconut oil is best. My husband and I both take about 4 tablespoons a day and the kids get a couple tablespoons in food, smoothies, or hot herbal tea.

***REPOSTERS NOTE

Links to other  Coconut Oil posts from All About Wellness Solutions – A cornucopia of varied information

Coconut Oil Pulling Therapy – Excellent Detox & Wellness Rejuvenator

Homemade Toothpaste With Coconut Oil – Health & Heart Smart

Get Off Your Thyroid Medication And Start Consuming Coconut Oil

Why You Should Use COCONUT OIL – 9 Benefits For Skin, Body And Soul

10 health Benefits of Virgin Coconut Oil

80 Awesome Uses For COCONUT OIL, In Your Home and Your Health

13 Evidence-Based Medicinal Properties of Coconut Oil

What – You Still Think Salt Consumption Causes High Blood Pressure?

What – You Still Think Salt Consumption Causes High Blood Pressure?

October 23rd, 2013salt blood pressure 263x164 What – You Still Think Salt Consumption Causes High Blood Pressure?
High sodium intake as a source of high blood pressure has been an unchallenged dogmatic mantra for decades. But a few renegade MDs, several naturopaths, and chiropractors have challenged the unproven hypothesis of salt being the basis of high blood pressure (HBP). Turns out that the link between high sodium intake and elevated blood pressure is a false one.

Pure, unrefined salt is actually a necessary and helpful dietary component. Perhaps the most well known salt promoter is Dr. David Brownstein, MD, author of Salt Your Way to HealthRefined commercial table salt, used excessively in processed foods, is processed with toxic chemicals and stripped of its inherent nutritional value. It’s mostly poison with very little nutrition, though even using table salt often won’t lead to high blood pressure.

Actually, those with high blood pressure (and everyone, really) should just consume more foods rich in potassium. Meta-analysis’ show how low potassium intake has the same impact on blood pressure as high salt consumption – the real problem is an imbalance between sodium and potassium.

It appears the new HBP dietary villain could be high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), which has been already linked to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular health issues.

HFCS is more commonly used in processed foods, fruit juices, sweets, and sodas than cane or beet sugar. It’s cheaper than sucrose (table sugar), and satisfies the “sweet tooth” SAD (standard American diet) consumers’ desire.

According to the USDA, HFCS consumption has increased significantly from 1970 to 2005, and it is now the number one source of empty calories in America. In fact, Americans eat approximately 35 lbs on average of high-fructose corn syrup each year.

How HFCS Contributes to Hypertension or High Blood Pressure

Fructose in fruit is tied to several other nutritional compounds that balance out fructose’s negative aspects. But fructose isolated from corn and made into a syrup is too much for the body to metabolize. Even table sugar metabolizes better.

Robert H. Lustig, MD, a Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Endocrinology, explains how the rise in HFCS use over the past three to four decades is behind the obesity and diabetes epidemic, both of which contribute to high blood pressure.

HFCS or “corn sugar” or “corn syrup” initiates a toxic overload from insufficient metabolism. The liver doesn’t convert isolated, concentrated fructose into energy well and stores it as fat instead. Add this to the dangers of GMO corn with traces of extremely toxic glyphosate herbicides and mercury as a byproduct from the conversion process. This toxic overload leads to obesity, fatty liver, other liver complications, and kidney disease.

Dr. Richard Johnson of the University of Colorado has been a researcher of investigations into HFCS and high blood pressure. His research revealed definite links of high HFCS consumption to high blood pressure.

What’s more, one of the toxic waste products remaining in the body from regular HFCS consumption is uric acid. A test of 17 subjects with high uric acid counts showed all 17 with high blood pressure. Uric acid inhibits nitric oxide (NO) in the blood vessels.

Nitric oxide is a volatile gas that helps maintain blood vessel elasticity. When that elasticity decreases, blood pressure increases. Here are 4 ways to increase nitric oxide naturally.  (if you find that you can not increase NO through these suggestions see Deb’s Solution and the link below it. Nitric Oxide also dissolves plague in every blood vessel in the body including the brain so is extremely important in reversing and  preventing disease and it’s precursor inflammation)

A safe range of uric acid is from 3 to 5.5 milligrams per deciliter (0.1 liter), with 4 mg/dl ideal for men and 3.5 mg/dl for women. Higher numbers threaten blood pressure increases. You can ask your health professional about a uric acid test or shop the Internet by inserting “uric acid blood testing” in your search engine.

Additional Sources:

Mercola

UCDenver.edu

MensHealth

***Reposter’s note

I was uninformed about salt until a doctor friend pointed out saline is one of medicine faithful standbys. We were at dinner in the cafeteria and I commented on her bringing her own salt and that it was a good thing considering how much she used. She was using granulated Himalayan Sea Salt.

I use a wonderful all natural supplement that causes the body to naturally create more Nitric Oxide. Based on Nobel Prize winning Science, world renowned Cardiologists are turning to it as a solution. Attached is an article that demonstrates real world health total recovery from the abyss of heart disease after exhausting all medical options. One example highlights a 72 year old patient, who went from not being able walk across a room to a daily workout that that most healthy much younger individuals can not complete. Read his story.

Nitric Oxide  production is hugely important.  Nitric Oxide relaxes our blood vessels and dissolves plague.  Plaque causes heart attacks, stoke,   Alzheimers and  dementia. It plays a role in reducing function in every organ. The more Nitric Oxide we produce the healthier our blood vessels. The healthier our blood vessels, the better every part of our body works, that includes the brain and every organ of the body. Of course as we age, we progressively produce less Nitric Oxide – go figure.

My husband was told he would be on oxygen full time by the age of 50. His shortness of breath during exertion was becoming very concerning. I had taken him to emergency because I thought he was having a heart attack and he was scared enough to go. (He is very stubborn – getting him to go to the doctor only happens when he is in extreme pain  or very scared.) My solution has given him his stamina and ability to complete exertion tasks back to levels he was at many years ago. I was impressed enough, I have chosen to distribute the product and let other people know about it because it helped  my husband and will keep me from losing him before his time.

I am so thankful my friend Sharon educated me on this solution, I know she saved my husband’s life and health. I want to pay it forward so other spouses, sisters, brothers, children, parents and freinds at least have the knowledge to choose to do something effective and practical. Knowledge is power and for some of us this knowledge will give us the power to make a change that will gives us a a much healthier future.

Deb’s Solution

(ordering instructions available in link below). It is sometimes difficult to eat enough to over come imbalances when our health has been significantly impacted.

(includes ordering instructions)

Here is a post to help you find those high potassium foods.  Thank You to Health·Alicious·Ness .com for the following article. For even more information visit the full article.***

Top 10 Foods Highest in Potassium

Potassium is an essential nutrient used to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance in the body. A deficiency in potassium causes fatigue, irritability, and hypertension (increased blood pressure). Unless you are on dialysis, or have a special condition, overdose of potassium from natural sources is nearly impossible; however, it is possible to consume too much potassium via potassium salts which can lead to nausea, vomiting, and even cardiac arrest. Potassium from natural food sources, like the ones listed below, are considered safe and healthy. The current percent daily value for potassium is 3.5 grams. Below is a list of high potassium foods ranked by common serving sizes, for more please see the lists of high potassium foods by nutrient density, potassium rich foods, fruits high in potassium, and vegetables high in potassium.


#1: White Beans

Potassium in 100g 1 cup cooked (179g)
561mg (16% DV) 1004mg (29% DV)

Other Beans High in Potassium (%DV per cup): Adzuki (35%), Soy (28%), Lima (28%), Kidney (20%), Great Northern (20%), Pinto (18%) and others at an average of 15% DV per cup cooked. Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#2: Dark Leafy Greens (Spinach)

Potassium 100g (Raw) 1 Cup (Raw – 30g) 1 Cup (Cooked – 180g)
558mg (16% DV) 167mg (5% DV) 839mg (24% DV)

Other Greens High in Potassium (%DV per cup cooked): Swiss Chard (27% DV), Kale (8% DV), and Collards (6% DV).
Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#3: Baked Potatoes (With Skin)

Potassium 100g Average Potato (173g)
535mg (15% DV) 926mg (26% DV)

Warning: Potatoes are high in simple carbohydrates and not recommended for people with diabetes. Sweet potatoes are actually better for regulation blood sugar, an average baked sweet potato with skin (114g) provides 542mg (15% DV) of potassium. Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#4: Dried Apricots

Potassium 100g 1/2 cup (65g)
1162mg (33% DV) 755mg (22% DV)

Other Dried Fruits High in Potassium (%DV per 1/2 cup): Peaches (22% DV), Prunes (20% DV), Raisins (18% DV).
Warning: Dried fruits are high in sugar. Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#5: Baked Acorn Squash

Potassium 100g 1 cup cubed (205g)
437mg (12% DV) 899mg (26% DV)

Other Squash High in Potassium (%DV per cup baked): Hubbard (21%), Butternut (17% DV), Zucchini (14% DV), Average Winter Squash (10% DV). Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#6: Yogurt (Plain, Skim/Non-Fat)

Potassium 100g 1 cup (245g)
255mg (7% DV) 625mg (18% DV)

Other Yogurt High in Potassium (%DV per cup): Whole-Fat (11% DV), Chocolate Yogurt (24% DV). Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#7: Fish (Salmon)

Potassium 100g 1 3oz fillet (85g)
628mg (18% DV) 534mg (15% DV)

Other Fish High in Potassium (%DV per 3oz fillet (85g)): Pompano (15% DV), Lingcod (14% DV), Halibut (13% DV), Yellowfin Tuna (13% DV), Anchovies (12% DV), Mackerel (10% DV), Herring (10% DV) and most other fish at an average of 10% DV. Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#8: Avocados

Potassium 100g Average Avocado (201g) 1/2 Cup Pureed (115)
485mg (14% DV) 975mg (28% DV) 558mg (16% DV)

An average avocado provides 322 calories, half a cup purred contains 184 calories. Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#9: Mushrooms (White)

Potassium 100g 1 cup sliced (108g)
396mg (11% DV) 428mg (12% DV)

1 cup cooked sliced white mushrooms contain 28 calories.
Other mushrooms high in potassium (%DV per cup sliced): Portabella (9% DV), Brown or Crimini (9% DV), Enoki (7% DV), Shiitake (5% DV), Maitake (4% DV). Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#10: Bananas

Potassium 100g Average Banana(118g) 1 Cup Mashed (225)
358mg (10% DV) 422mg (12% DV) 806mg (23% DV)

An average banana provides 105 calories, 1 cup mashed contains 200 calories. Click to see complete nutrition facts.

Top 10 Foods Highest in Potassium

Potassium is an essential nutrient used to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance in the body. A deficiency in potassium causes fatigue, irritability, and hypertension (increased blood pressure). Unless you are on dialysis, or have a special condition, overdose of potassium from natural sources is nearly impossible; however, it is possible to consume too much potassium via potassium salts which can lead to nausea, vomiting, and even cardiac arrest. Potassium from natural food sources, like the ones listed below, are considered safe and healthy. The current percent daily value for potassium is 3.5 grams. Below is a list of high potassium foods ranked by common serving sizes, for more please see the lists of high potassium foods by nutrient density, potassium rich foods, fruits high in potassium, and vegetables high in potassium.

#1: White Beans

Potassium in 100g 1 cup cooked (179g)
561mg (16% DV) 1004mg (29% DV)

Other Beans High in Potassium (%DV per cup): Adzuki (35%), Soy (28%), Lima (28%), Kidney (20%), Great Northern (20%), Pinto (18%) and others at an average of 15% DV per cup cooked. Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#2: Dark Leafy Greens (Spinach)

Potassium 100g (Raw) 1 Cup (Raw – 30g) 1 Cup (Cooked – 180g)
558mg (16% DV) 167mg (5% DV) 839mg (24% DV)

Other Greens High in Potassium (%DV per cup cooked): Swiss Chard (27% DV), Kale (8% DV), and Collards (6% DV).
Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#3: Baked Potatoes (With Skin)

Potassium 100g Average Potato (173g)
535mg (15% DV) 926mg (26% DV)

Warning: Potatoes are high in simple carbohydrates and not recommended for people with diabetes. Sweet potatoes are actually better for regulation blood sugar, an average baked sweet potato with skin (114g) provides 542mg (15% DV) of potassium. Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#4: Dried Apricots

Potassium 100g 1/2 cup (65g)
1162mg (33% DV) 755mg (22% DV)

Other Dried Fruits High in Potassium (%DV per 1/2 cup): Peaches (22% DV), Prunes (20% DV), Raisins (18% DV).
Warning: Dried fruits are high in sugar. Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#5: Baked Acorn Squash

Potassium 100g 1 cup cubed (205g)
437mg (12% DV) 899mg (26% DV)

Other Squash High in Potassium (%DV per cup baked): Hubbard (21%), Butternut (17% DV), Zucchini (14% DV), Average Winter Squash (10% DV). Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#6: Yogurt (Plain, Skim/Non-Fat)

Potassium 100g 1 cup (245g)
255mg (7% DV) 625mg (18% DV)

Other Yogurt High in Potassium (%DV per cup): Whole-Fat (11% DV), Chocolate Yogurt (24% DV). Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#7: Fish (Salmon)

Potassium 100g 1 3oz fillet (85g)
628mg (18% DV) 534mg (15% DV)

Other Fish High in Potassium (%DV per 3oz fillet (85g)): Pompano (15% DV), Lingcod (14% DV), Halibut (13% DV), Yellowfin Tuna (13% DV), Anchovies (12% DV), Mackerel (10% DV), Herring (10% DV) and most other fish at an average of 10% DV. Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#8: Avocados

Potassium 100g Average Avocado (201g) 1/2 Cup Pureed (115)
485mg (14% DV) 975mg (28% DV) 558mg (16% DV)

An average avocado provides 322 calories, half a cup purred contains 184 calories. Click to see complete nutrition facts.

#9: Mushrooms (White)

Potassium 100g 1 cup sliced (108g)
396mg (11% DV) 428mg (12% DV)

1 cup cooked sliced white mushrooms contain 28 calories.
Other mushrooms high in potassium (%DV per cup sliced): Portabella (9% DV), Brown or Crimini (9% DV), Enoki (7% DV), Shiitake (5% DV), Maitake (4%



The Top 10 High Potassium Foods by Nutrient Density (Potassium per Gram)

#1: Dried Herbs (Parsley, Chervil, Corriander, Basil, Dill) 4740mg (135% DV) per 100 grams 95mg (3% DV) per tablespoon (2 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Dried Herbs
#2: Sun-Dried Tomatoes 3427mg (98% DV) per 100 grams 69mg (2% DV) per piece (2 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Sun Dried Tomatoes
#3: Cocoa Powder and Dark Chocolate 2509mg (72% DV) per 100 grams 125mg (4% DV) per tablespoon (5 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Cocoa Powder
#4: Whey Powder 2289mg (65% DV) per 100 grams 69mg (2% DV) per tablespoon (3 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Whey Powder
#5: Paprika and Chili Powder 2280mg (65% DV) per 100 grams 160mg (5% DV) per tablespoon (7 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Paprika and Chili Powder
#6: Yeast Extract Spread (Marmite) 2100mg (60% DV) per 100 grams 126mg (4% DV) per teaspoon (6 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Yeast Extract Spread (Marmite)
#7: Rice Bran 1485mg (42% DV) per 100 grams 1752mg (50% DV) per cup (118 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Rice Bran
#8: Molasses 1464mg (42% DV) per 100 grams 293mg (8% DV) per tablespoon (20 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Molasses
#9: Dry Roasted Soybeans 1364mg (39% DV) per 100 grams 2346mg (67% DV) per cup (172 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Dry Roasted Soybeans
#10: Dry Seaweed (Spirulina) 1363mg (39% DV) per 100 grams 95mg (3% DV) per tablespoon (7 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Dry Seaweed (Spirulina)


Other Potassium Rich Foods

Pistachios 1007mg (29% DV) per 100 gram serving 1239mg (35% DV) per cup (123 grams) 282mg (8% DV) per ounce (49 nuts or 28g) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Pistachios
Chestnuts 592mg (17% DV) per 100 gram serving 847mg (24% DV) per cup (143 grams) 166mg (5% DV) per ounce (3 nuts or 28g) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Chestnuts
Almonds 705mg (20% DV) per 100 gram serving 1008mg (29% DV) per cup (143 grams) 197mg (6% DV) per ounce (23 nuts or 28g) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Almonds
Cashews 565mg (16% DV) per 100 gram serving 774mg (22% DV) per cup (137 grams) 158mg (5% DV) per ounce (28g) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Cashews
Walnuts 441mg (13% DV) per 100 gram serving 441mg (13% DV) per cup halves (100 grams) 123mg (4% DV) per ounce (14 halves or 28g) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Walnuts
Squash and Pumpkin Seeds 919mg (26% DV) per 100 gram serving 588mg (17% DV) per cup (64 grams) 257mg (7% DV) per ounce (85 seeds or 28g) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Squash and Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds 850mg (24% DV) per 100 gram serving 1088mg (31% DV) per cup hulled (128 grams) 238mg (7% DV) per ounce (85 seeds or 28g) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Sunflower Seeds
Watermelon Seeds 648mg (19% DV) per 100 gram serving 700mg (20% DV) per cup (108 grams) 181mg (5% DV) per ounce (28 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Dried Watermelon Seeds
Coconut Water (Juice) 250mg (7% DV) per 100 gram serving 600mg (17% DV) in a cup (240 grams) 515mg (15% DV) per coconut (206 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Coconut Water (Juice)
Orange Juice 200mg (6% DV) per 100 gram serving 496mg (14% DV) in a cup (248 grams) 172mg (5% DV) in the juice of one orange (86 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Orange Juice
Brussels Sprouts (Raw) 389mg (11% DV) per 100 gram serving 342mg (10% DV) per cup (88 grams) 74mg (2% DV) per brussel sprout (19 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Brussels Sprouts
Palm Hearts 177mg (5% DV) per 100 gram serving 258mg (26% DV) per cup (146 grams) 58mg (2% DV) per piece (33 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Canned Palm Hearts
Clams 628mg (18% DV) per 100 gram serving 534mg (15% DV) per 3 ounce serving (85 grams) 1.2g (34% DV) in 20 small clams (190 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Cooked Clams
Whelk 694mg (20% DV) per 100 gram serving 350mg (15% DV) per 3oz serving (85 grams) 117mg (5% DV) per ounce (28 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Whelk
Dried Figs 680mg (19% DV) per 100 gram serving 1g (29% DV) per cup (149 grams) 54mg (2% DV) in a single fig (8 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Dried Figs
Dates 696mg (20% DV) per 100 gram serving 167mg (5% DV) in a single large date (24 grams) Click to see complete nutrition facts for Dates (Medjool)

To find even more high potassium foods, use the nutrient ranking tool.

Health Benefits of Potassium

  • Osteoporosis Protection – Several studies have found a relation between increased bone density and increased intake of dietary potassium. These studies were true even for post menopausal women and older men.2-4
  • Reduced Risk of Stroke – Several observational studies have found that those with high potassium levels experience a lower risk of stroke. The health benefits are likely through reduction of blood pressure combined with a diet high in fruits and vegetables.5-9
  • Alleviation of High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) – Studies show that a diet high in potassium, especially potassium from fruits and vegetables, lowers blood pressure. This is especially true if the increase in potassium foods is not accompanied by an increase in high sodium foods. 10-12

People at Risk of a Potassium Deficiency

  • Alcoholics
  • People taking Diuretics – Especially thiazide or furosemide
  • Long distance athletes – People who exercise over long distances lose electrolytes via sweat and need to replenish their sodium, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus levels.
  • Dehydration – People who consume excess alcohol, or suffer severe vomiting/diarrhea, or can be otherwise dehydrated need to replenish their sodium, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus levels.
  • Anorexics or bulimics
  • People with a magnesium deficiency
  • People taking Certain Medications13,14
    • Beta-adrenergic agonists – Epinephrine
    • Decongestants – Pseudoephedrine, phenylpropanolamine
    • Bronchodilators – Albuterol, terbutaline, pirbuterol, isoetharine, fenoterol, ephedrine, isoproterenol, metaproterenol, theophylline
    • Tocolytic (labor suppressing) agents – Ritodrine, nylidrin
    • Diuretics – Acetazolamide, thiazides, chlorthalidone, indapamide, metolazone, quinethazone, bumetanide, ethacrynic acid, furosemide, torsemide
    • Mineralocorticoids – Fludrocortisone
    • Substances with mineralocorticoid effects – Licorice, carbenoxolone, gossypol
    • High-dose glucocorticoids
    • High-dose antibiotics – Penicillin, nafcillin, carbenicillin
    • Other – Caffeine, phenolphthalein, sodium polystyrene sulfonate

Read more at http://www.healthaliciousness.com/articles/food-sources-of-potassium.php#YJLLRDXrmsrWcmVy.99

6 HOMEMADE FACE MASKS TO LOOK YOUNGER BY REMOVING DEAD SKIN CELLS

6 Homemade Face Masks to Remove Dead Cells And Look Younger

Homemade face masks are used to clean the skin naturally and they have long been part of beauty regimens, you may already know about how toxic for your skin a chemical treatment can be, that’s why there are many natural options with various ingredients for every type of skin. So here we give you 6 homemade face mask to remove dead cells and look younger.

ingredientshomemade masks

Clay face mask 
Clay is an excellent absorbing agent; it helps in removing the sebum, dead skin and dirt so that your skin looks clean, soft and youthful.
Peel off homemade face mask
Gel based mask that removes dead cells from the top layer of the skin, leaving behind fresh and youthful skin. Peel off masks brighten up a dull complexion, you can use oatmeal, which is rich in vitamin B and E
Moisturizing homemade face mask for normal skin
Mash half avocado, pear, and add one teaspoon of sunflower oil. Apply and leave on for ten minutes then wash it off with warm water. ***( I would use coconut oil it is more nourishing for the skin and hair)
Anti-aging homemade face mask for wrinkled skin
Take two tablespoons of oatmeal with a half cup of milk and cook gently until it becomes soft, stir with two teaspoons of olive oil. Let it cool, apply it to face and leave it for twenty to twenty five minutes and wash off with warm water. ***( I would use coconut oil, it is more nourishing for the skin and hair)
Oily skin homemade face mask
Beat one egg white until it becomes thick and mix one teaspoon of honey, then add one teaspoon of lemon juice and apply gently to face and leave it for ten minutes and wash it off with warm water.
Dry skin homemade face mask 
Beat one egg white until it becomes thick and add one teaspoon of honey and sunflower oil, apply to face, leave for twenty minutes and wash off with warm water. ***( I would use coconut oil, it is more nourishing for the skin and hair)

avocato mask

****REPOSTER’S NOTE****  Keep reading below if you want an exquisite total body solution !

Thanks to the  for this information

You will see ***( I would use coconut oil, it is more nourishing for the skin and hair)

My investigations show that coconut oil is the one most nourishing of the oils and is absorbed by the body very easily. Our body temperature is warm enough to keep the oil liquid for easy absorption.

If you already have pure virgin olive oil or sunflower oil in your home – do use that rather than delaying trying the masks until you can purchase coconut oil.

If you are not yet using coconut oil search coconut oil, you will find numerous articles, posted on this blog .

Enjoy these wonderful masks!

***TO SEE A TOTALLY DIFFERENT APPROACH, YOU CAN CHOOSE TO CONTINUE READING***

My personal favorite solution for removing dead skin cells, reducing lines and wrinkles, detoxification and oxygenation of the skin is a total body solution. As we age not only does aging show on our face but all of our skin.

Natural ultrasound  is used to clean our precious jewelry and keep it looking it’s best  Natural Ultrasound does the same for the skin and the underlying connective tissue by massaging and stimulating at a cellular level as well deep cleaning the skin surface and pores. Detoxifying, rehydrating,  massaging and oxygenating our skin while providing improved circulation plumps up the skin naturally. The enhanced circulation/oxygenation and the deep pore cleansing give the skin that dewy youthful glow.

I was introduced to the Oxygen Spa as a wellness tool, only to find out that in Asia it is a very popular spa treatment used to return youthfulness to the skin or to maintain a youthful appearance. After having an extremely rejuvenating experience during my first Oxygen Spa Session, I decided to attend a hydrotherapy conference in Taiwan to  learn more from doctors and hydrotherapy experts.

The Oxygen Spa  is basically like having a mini physiotherapy unit at your disposal in your own home. All you need is a bath tub and water. It provides full body Hydrotherapy that incorporates Hydro-massage, Hydro-accupressure, Hydro-ultrasound, Far-infrared Oxygen & Ozone therapy and full body Detoxification. It also creates internal warming so provides cardiovascular exercise benefits too. Many people notice decreases in cellulite and improved over all body toning.

The Oxygen Spa is also the best stress reduction tool – just imagine millions of oxygen bubbles massaging all of the stress away. It is such an exquisite experience with the added benefit of not having to lose that super relaxed feeling by getting dressed and having to go back out into the world.

The Hydrotherapy Conference attendees appeared to be a rather youthful group both in appearance but also in movement which surprised me. As we age, that suppleness of movement we see in the young slowly dissipates unless we pursue a consistent total body exercise regimen like yoga.  During the hydrotherapy training  by leading doctors and hydrotherapy experts, they provided insight about why the Oxygen Spa had been adopted as a very significant tool in rehab facilities and even in emergency rooms such as Taipei Hospital.

Soon the Spa industry in Asia caught on. Numerous health issues were being successfully addressed but along with feeling better, Oxygen Spa users were noticeably looking and feeling more youthful – an unanticipated side-effect.

At the conference, I was befriended by 3 young Asian Americans who were Oxygen Spa devotees. I was later shocked to find out all 3 ladies had children who were in their late 20s and early 30s and my new friends were 49 – 54 years old.  But they were not alone, I met women and  men not only from Asia but from Europe, Middle East, Philippines, Africa and Australia who were using the Oxygen Spa as their fountain of youth and vibrancy. That they were also experiencing unparalleled good health as a by-product.

They were of the opinion that when you feel good, you look your best, and when you look your best, you feel good. They had all been introduced to the Oxygen Spa years earlier in its infancy and enjoyed using it so much over time they had been able to stay looking and feeling much younger than their peers.

So what is this Oxygen Spa  – Watch the video below and if you want to learn even more check out homespaedmonton.com. My name is Deb St.Jean  and should you want to contact me – you can do so via the contact form, or the comments section of this blog. (My apologies – the website is a bit out of date and is in the middle of being revamped)

I was an adult acne sufferer with horrible skin showing the wear and tear of aging and 20+ years of severe adult acne. Due to a very physically active life, I had 3 crushed vertebra, carpal tunnel, rotator cuff, hip, knee and ankle injuries. The Oxygen Spa provided amazing pain relief and gave me back a flexibility I had not experienced since crushing my vertebra in my teens.

Not long after I bought my Oxygen Spa and was able to use it consistently, long time friends and co-workers started complimenting ME – on how great MY skin looked. I have been blemish free for over 5 years now and often have people who meet compliment me on my skin. These compliments still take me by surprise as most of my life I had skin that had to be buried under layers and layers of make-up to cover the acne and the scaring. Now, in my late 50’s, I wear NO MAKE-UP and GET COMPLIMENTS ON MY GREAT SKIN.

I ordered my Oxygen Spa for the pain reduction and improved flexibility – I had no idea that it would do wonders for my skin, my energy levels or give the overall sense of wellness I experience today. Watch the video, and incorporate some of what the Oxygen Spa provides to enhance the benefits of the masks detailed earlier in this post. If you want the real thing, the Oxygen Spa contact me and I will help make that happen for you.

I freely admit, I am addicted to my Oxygen Spa and will never be without it for the rest of my life. It is as important to me as the air I breathe, the water I drink and the food I eat.  I dreaded aging, yet comparatively, I now feel and look better than anything I could have anticipated 10 years ago.

The Essential Oils and the Mineral Salts enhance the effectiveness and the experience. They are integral to obtaining the fullest benefit that the Oxygen Spa can bestow. Aroma and Essential oil/Mineral salt therapy have long been used with hydrotherapy as they complement and enhance the effectiveness of each other, beyond what either could do alone.

The Oxygen Spa is my passion so my apologies for being so long-winded ( you will note if you look at my other posts this is not typical) but the change the Oxygen Spa has brought to my skin and my life is so huge I wish I could give every home one.

Here is that promised video.

For more info or to check out other posts for more useful info………………..

http://www.homespaedmonton.com/ and https://allaboutwellnesssolutions.wordpress.com/

Should you want to contact me (Deb) I have added the contact form below.

Top 10 Cancer Causing Foods

The 10 most cancer causing foods

April 18, 2013 at 2:33 pm

Top 10 most unhealthy, cancer-causing foods – never eat these again!

The statement “everything causes cancer” has become a popular hyperbole, and one that some people use as rhetorical fodder to excuse their own dietary and lifestyle failures, particularly as they pertain to cancer risk. But the truth of the matter is that many common food items have, indeed, been scientifically shown to increase cancer risk, and some of them substantially. Here are 10 of the most unhealthy, cancer-causing foods that you should never eat again:

1) Genetically-modified organisms (GMOs). It goes without saying that GMOs have no legitimate place in any cancer-free diet, especially now that both GMOs and the chemicals used to grow them have been shown to cause rapid tumor growth. But GMOs are everywhere, including in most food derivatives made from conventional corn, soybeans, and canola. However, you can avoid them by sticking with certified organic, certified non-GMO verified, and locally-grown foods that are produced naturally without biotechnology.

2) Processed meats. Most processed meat products, including lunch meats, bacon, sausage, and hot dogs, contain chemical preservatives that make them appear fresh and appealing, but that can also cause cancer. Both sodium nitrite and sodium nitrate have been linked to significantly increasing the risk of colon and other forms of cancer, so be sure to choose only uncured meat products made without nitrates, and preferably from grass-fed sources.

3) Microwave popcorn. They might be convenient, but those bags of microwave popcorn are lined with chemicals that are linked to causing not only infertility but also liver, testicular, and pancreatic cancers. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognizes the perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in microwave popcorn bag linings as “likely” carcinogenic, and several independent studies have linked the chemical to causing tumors. Similarly, the diacetyl chemical used in the popcorn itself is linked to causing both lung damage and cancer.

4) Soda pop. Like processed meats, soda pop has been shown to cause cancer as well. Loaded with sugar, food chemicals, and colorings, soda pop acidifies the body and literally feeds cancer cells. Common soda pop chemicals like caramel color and its derivative 4-methylimidazole (4-MI) have also specifically been linked to causing cancer.

5) ‘Diet’ foods, beverages. Even worse than conventional sugar-sweetened soda pop, though, is “diet” soda pop and various other diet beverages and foods. A recent scientific review issued by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) of more than 20 separate research studies found that aspartame, one of the most common artificial sweeteners, causes a range of illnesses including birth defects and cancer. Sucralose (Splenda), saccharin and various other artificial sweeteners have also been linked to causing cancer.

6) Refined ‘white’ flours. Refined flour is a common ingredient in processed foods, but its excess carbohydrate content is a serious cause for concern. A study published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Mile Markers, and Prevention found that regular consumption of refined carbohydrates was linked to a 220 percent increase in breast cancer among women. High-glycemic foods in general have also been shown to rapidly raise blood sugar levels in the body, which directly feeds cancer cell growth and spread.

7) Refined sugars. The same goes for refined sugars, which tend to rapidly spike insulin levels and feed the growth of cancer cells. Fructose-rich sweeteners like high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) are particularly offensive, as cancer cells have been shown to quickly and easily metabolize them in order to proliferate. And since cookies, cakes, pies, sodas, juices, sauces, cereals, and many other popular, mostly processed, food items are loaded with HFCS and other refined sugars, this helps explain why cancer rates are on the rise these days.

8) Conventional apples, grapes, and other ‘dirty’ fruits. Many people think they are eating healthy when they buy apples, grapes, or strawberries from the store. But unless these fruits are organic or verified to be pesticide-free, they could be a major cancer risk. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that up to 98 percent of all conventional produce, and particularly the type found on its “dirty” fruits list, is contaminated with cancer-causing pesticides.

9) Farmed salmon. Farmed salmon is another high-risk cancer food, according to Dr. David Carpenter, Director of the Institute for Health and the Environment at the University of Albany. According to his assessment, farmed salmon not only lacks vitamin D, but it is often contaminated with carcinogenic chemicals, PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), flame retardants, pesticides, and antibiotics.

10) Hydrogenated oils. They are commonly used to preserve processed foods and keep them shelf-stable. But hydrogenated oils alter the structure and flexibility of cell membranes throughout the body, which can lead to a host of debilitating diseases such as cancer. Some manufacturers are phasing out the use of hydrogenated oils and replacing them with palm oil and other safer alternatives, but trans fats are still widely used in processed foods.

Source: Natural News

***** See this link for cleaning fruit, berries and produce – anything that is grown above ground and would be sprayed with herbicides, pesticides or ripening inhibitors.  If I have a used lemon rind kicking around I slice it very thinly, put it in a mesh bag and add it to the vinegar water. Lemon is known to be great as a detox and keeps fruits and veggies from oxidizing (eg. sliced apples stay white a lot longer.)

https://allaboutwellnesssolutions.wordpress.com/2013/04/24/cleaning-fruit-berries-fruit-lasts-longer/

Sounds impossible in today’s world to live a healthy lifestyle doesn’t it But it is NOT.

Grow a garden, if you have the space plant raspberries, strawberries, a couple of apple trees. Eat what you grow – even small patios can provide all of your lettuce and tomatoes. Use hanging planters for strawberries. Gardening is an excellent stress reduction tool too.

If you love popcorn, buy a popcorn popper – use real butter and sea salt – YUM and quick

Cook meals from scratch – a bit of planning while shopping and storing groceries can make a huge difference in what you eat and how long fresh produce will last.  Get rid of the sodas and any prepared drinks, make fresh lemon juice or detox waters, make a pot of tea or coffee. Use real cream or milk if you must, sweeten with honey, real maple syrup, agave, stevia or monk fruit.

Meal Prep used to be a staple that involved the whole family and dinner was a social gathering where the days events were shared. Memories were made and family bonds solidified. Turn off all electronics and enjoy each other.

Scientific studies have proven that food that is blessed prior to consumption has increased nutritional value. Take 2 seconds thank whomever – God – The Planet – The Garden- The Universe and ask that the food be blessed.  No matter what the food is – by blessing it you just made it better for your body. Sounds crazy but it works!

Cancer was the bane of our families – I have learned a lot – much of it was unlearning.

Our homes are one of the most polluted places on the planet, natural cleaners work, oxygen is really good for you as is clean water and, salt is important in a natural unprocessed form.

Get lots of Sunshine – Natural Vitamin D3 is the best, drink lots of water, get a full nights sleep, have some fun, take walks, laugh, get some aerobic exercise.  Connect with nature and the world. Give hugs and smiles.  Take a really good liquid vitamin mineral supplement. (link to my fav, Daily Complete) http://deb.awarenesslife.com/index.cfm?action=details&detail=complete

Life is a participation sport – we choose to prioritize busyness over quality – you can choose to tweak certain parts of your life. I allocated certain Saturdays or weekday evening to preparing and freezing casseroles etc.  Everybody had a job – we would prepare 5 Lasagnas or 2 huge pots of stew, roast a couple of chickens etc. Then on the days that there was soccer, hockey, baseball, basketball, dance, karate etc.  Nice fresh bead, a colorful salad and a pre-prepared main course and we had a dinner that was delicious and good for us.

Having a son whose behavior was extremely affected by additives  and certain foods forced us to eat differently but looking back – it turned out to be a very positive lifestyle change with huge benefits. We still grow a huge garden  – it is work but what a sense of  independence and accomplishment. The taste difference alone is worth it.  A few minutes of weeding a day, away from the phone and TV brings relaxation and peace to the craziness. The weeds wait for you – I enjoy a few minutes early in the morning when the air is so fresh and clean or in the evening.

Kids have a lot of activities these days but not much in the way of chores. Helping grow a garden and care for a yard are great chores that build skills and allow them to feel the pride of accomplishment. Promote working barefoot as long as your yard is safe – walking barefoot on natural surfaces is very good for the feet and the spine. Fresh air is a real tonic.

Community gardens that allow you to grow your own produce can be found in most major cities these days.

Cancer is not a death sentence it is a wake up call – I learned so much from reading the following book.

The success rate for his cancer patients is unparalleled –  but his wisdom applies to living the best life for every one of us.

Bernie Siegel: Love, Medicine and Miracles

Here is a wonderful interview that will add to your life no matter who you are or where you are at. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4TwAHC4q2K4

Prevent Flu Naturally – 8 Natural Solutions

       

8 Ways To Avoid The Flu Naturally

To learn more about how to prevent and beat the flu naturally, check out this helpful article by Dr. Leigh Erin Connealy, M.D., of the Center for New Medicine:

Couple the recent media predictions of a pandemic-proportion flu season with talk of more vaccination shortages, and the spread of panic isn’t far behind. However, the flu does not have to be inevitable for you or your family and can be avoided naturally by strengthening your immune system.

Taste the rainbow
Eating a wide variety of fresh, wholesome foods packed with powerful vitamins and minerals is the first step to ensuring a strong immune system. Vitamins A, B6, C and E and the minerals zinc, iron, copper and selenium are critical for maintaining strength and immunity. Make sure that your diet consists of a rainbow of fruits and vegetables to ensure that you are getting all of the necessary nutrients. Supplementing your diet with a *** daily multivitamin/mineral*** will fill the gaps where your diet falls short and should be an essential part of your health regime. During cold and flu season, increase your dosage of vitamin C for added virus fighting benefits. Should you still become sick, studies have shown that the powerful antioxidants in vitamin C can reduce both the symptoms and duration of the flu***

I’ll have extra garlic, please
Certain foods can give you an extra boost and should be factored into your regular eating habits. Garlic is known for its antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties and can prevent infections from taking hold and spreading. A daily serving of two raw garlic cloves will provide you with the bulbous herb’s healthy benefits. Tip: To avoid offensive garlic breath, cut the cloves into smaller pieces and then swallow them with water or herbal tea. Follow with a sprig of parsley.

A mushroom a day
Mushrooms have been found to increase production and activity of white blood cells, improving your chances of fighting off infection. Both shiitake and maitake mushrooms provide the biggest immunity boost.

Have a tea party
Jump-start your immune system each morning with a fresh pot of black tea. While the healthy properties in black tea have been known for centuries, a recent Harvard University study confirmed its healing effects. The study found that people who drank five cups of black tea a day for two weeks had 10 times higher levels of the cold- and virus-fighting chemical interferon than those who did not drink tea. Researchers suspect that green tea has the same effect.

Run away
Exercising for 30 to 60 minutes daily can give your immune system the extra kick that it needs. A study conducted by David Nieman at Appalachian State University found that people who walked regularly for 12 weeks had half the number of colds and sore throats as people who were less active.

Exercise is also a great way to reduce stress and its harmful effects on the immune system. It has been estimated that 90 percent of illness and disease is stress related. But don’t overdo it! Too much exercise can have the opposite effect on your immune system. Exercising for more than 90 minutes a day could make you more susceptible to the flu virus.

Sleep on it
Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for the immune system to recharge itself. An overly fatigued body doesn’t have the necessary strength to fight off infections. With eight hours a night of solid sleep, your body will be ready to face a new day and ward off pesky invaders.

Lather Up
A strong immune system should be able to combat the flu virus, but washing your hands frequently can increase your health odds even more. Use warm water and soap and avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes to prevent the virus from entering your system.

Avoid the flu shot
According to Dr. J. Anthony Morris, the former Chief Vaccine Control Officer at the FDA, “There is no evidence that any influenza vaccine, thus far developed, is effective in preventing or mitigating any attack of influenza.” When you also consider the toxic mixture of chemicals found in the flu vaccine, the decision becomes a no-brainer. Among the vaccine’s ingredients are such toxins as ethylene glycol (a.k.a. antifreeze), formaldehyde (a known carcinogen), aluminum (linked to Alzheimer’s disease and known to produce cancer in mice) and thimerosol (a form of mercury, the most toxic of all heavy metals). Thimerosol has had so much scrutiny in the past decade that it has been banned in all childhood vaccinations in the United States, yet it still remains in the influenza vaccine today.

This year the flu season doesn’t have to get you down. Take good care of your body and you will be rewarded with a lifetime of good health. And just think of what you can do with all of those unused sick days!

Dr. Connealy, M.D., M.P.H. began private practice in 1986. In 1992, she founded South Coast Medical Center for New Medicine, where she serves as Medical Director. Her practice is firmly based in the belief that strictly treating health problems with medications does not find the root cause of the illness. Dr. Connealy writes monthly columns for Coast and OC Health magazines, and is a biweekly guest on Frank Jordan’s “Healthy” radio show. She routinely lectures and educates the public on health issues.

Thanks to Natural News for a great article.
***daily multivitamin/mineral……Best I have found is Daily Complete: A liquid formulation http://deb.awarenesslife.com/index.cfm?action=details&detail=complete
*** Vitamin C, Freshly squeezed lemon juice in very warm water with honey or Pure Maple Syrup and Cinnamon. I drink this at the first hint of a Cold or Flu with excellent results. Drinking warm lemon every morning is excellent for  boosting your immunity and helping your body detox on an ongoing basis.

5 Foods That Can Help With Depression

5 Foods That Can Help With Depression

It does not say cure depression, it says help with. When people are depressed they often reach for comfort foods, like candy, chips, ice cream, and chocolate. Nutritionists say this is the wrong answer, eating these foods can help alleviate symptoms, plus there is an added bonus of feeling good about doing something proactive for your health.

1) An omelet or scrambled egg, the yolks are rich in B vitamins, they are a good source of protein, and B vitamins help your brain to function at optimal levels. Similar options: fish, poultry, wheat germ, and lean beef

salmon45

2) Nuts and Seeds, they are a great source of magnesium, which helps produce serotonin, which helps you feel good. Some examples include: cashews, pumpkin seeds, sunflowers seeds, almonds, and peanuts

3) Cold water fish, excellent source of Omega 3′s, which contains the fatty acid DHA, which helps your brain in a multitude of ways. Some examples include: salmon, tuna, herring, sardines, and anchovies

grains-2

4) Ancient grains, which are complex carbohydrates, they take longer to digest which helps stabilize blood sugars, which helps stabilize your mood. Added bonus, they are full of fiber, which helps you feel full longer. Some examples include: amaranth, millet, quinoa, spelt, barley, and teff

5) Green tea, technically a drink, not a food, rich in amino acid L-theanine which can help improve focus while calming the body

Knowing what to eat for your body produces great long-term effects, it helps to resolve feelings of helplessness or powerlessness against the disease that is hurting you, always do the best you can.

Source: http://healthyliving.msn.com/diseases/depression/5-foods-to-eat-when-youre-depressed-18?pageart=2

Thanks to Positive med for another great find.

Magnesium is best absorbed through the skin so I would recommend a Magnesium Spray, Gel, or a bath with Magnesium Salts. We as a society are severely deficient in Magnesium. Cranky kids are much happier and more relaxed after a a bath with magnesium Salts, just like mom and dad. A scoop in the nightly bath can make a huge difference in falling asleep quickly and easily too.

Vitamin D3 is so much more than a Vitamin and had been shown to have huge mood improvement benefits so get some sun and in the winter supplement. Many knowledgeable physicians now recommend at least 5000IU/ day in the winter months. Now many patients will find that it is part of routine care during hospital stays.  Next to sun on bare skin, Sub-lingual tablets or sprays are the most effective .

Unusual Uses for Lemon Juice

Thanks to Positive Med for another good find.

I am sure everyone has heard of the health benefits of lemon in your drinking water, but it is not just to drink and eat. Are you aware of all the places you can use this little wonder fruit? A bit of fresh lemon in your apple water will keep them from going brown while you are prepping apples for apple pie. I use lemons to get rid of stains in sinks and on counter tops, in the bathroom. and kitchen, It is often great at getting tough stains out of whites. You can use it to help lighten hair in the summer. There are so many things you can do! Check this poster for more:

https://i0.wp.com/positivemed.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/lemon-juice.jpg

Health Benefits of Cabbage & Sauerkraut

sauerkraut

***Reposters Note. Cabbage in whatever form offers numerous benefits. Sauerkraut was a staple in many cultures before the advent of processed and fast foods. I would encourage  readers to incorporate the unique flavor into you meals for variety as well as the numerous dietary benefits***

(NaturalNews) Sauerkraut combines the health benefits offered by all cruciferous vegetables (a category which includes cauliflowers and brussel sprouts as well as cabbage) with the probiotic advantages derived from the fermentation process.

Cabbage offers a host of health benefits. It is high in vitamins A and C. Studies have shown the cruciferous vegetables can help lower cholesterol levels. Cabbage also provides a rich source of phytonutrient antioxidants. In addition, it has anti-inflammatory properties, and some studies indicate it may help combat some cancers. However, this already helpful vegetable becomes a superfood when it is pickled.

The fermentation process used to make sauerkraut was probably first developed centuries ago simply as a means of preserving vegetables for easy consumption throughout the winter. The health benefits derived from pickling vegetables were already well-known to early civilizations. Historical evidence suggests laborers on the Great Wall of China consumed a version of the pickled cabbage dish 2,000 years ago.Traditional Chinese has long prescribed sauerkraut juice as a home remedy for many common ailments . The armies of Genghis Khan most likely first brought the dish to Europe. The Roman army traveled with barrels of sauerkraut, using it to prevent intestinal infections among the troops during long excursions.
In periods and cultures when natural healing methods fell into disuse, people consumed fewer fermented foods and were subject to more illness. Scurvy (vitamin C deficiency) killed many British sailors during the 1700s, especially on longer voyages. In the late 1770s, Captain James Cook circumnavigated the world without losing a single sailor to scurvy, thanks to the foods his ship carried, including sixty barrels of sauerkraut.Mainstream health experts began to pay renewed attention to sauerkraut after a study published in The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry in 2002. Finnish researchers reported that in laboratory studies,a substance produced by fermented cabbage, isothiocyanates, helped prevent the growth of cancer.Even before the laboratory study, however, alternative health experts extolled the healing benefits of sauerkraut because of the lactic acid bacteria produced as a side-effect of the pickling process.Healthy human colons contain many beneficial bacteria which feed on the waste left over from our digestion, creating lactic acid. Without these beneficial bacteria the human digestive system becomes home to harmful parasites and yeasts, resulting in the condition of candida.

Sauerkraut provides a high density source of a wide range of beneficial live bacteria which assist in the digestive process. Consuming a serving of sauerkraut can give your body as much of a health boost as many of the expensive probiotic drinks and supplements sold in stores. However, most commercially sold sauerkraut have lost most of their beneficial bacterial organisms. To gain the most benefits from sauerkraut, you may want to purchase it freshly made, or learn how to make your own.If you want to explore recipes for making sauerkraut and other fermented dishes, an excellent place to start is with Sandor Ellis Katz’s Wild Fermentation: The Flavor, Nutrition and Craft of Live Culture Foods.In his book, Katz points out that “Fermentation not only preserves nutrients, it breaks them down into more digestible forms.” Katz, who also wrote The Revolution Will Not Be Microwaved: Inside America’s Underground Food Movements, recommends not only eating sauerkraut but drinking the juice which he calls “a rare delicacy and unparalleled digestive tonic.”Sources for this article include:

Thank You to Lifestyle Philippines, Natural News and Oasis Advanced Wellness for contributions to this post.