Natural Medicine: Healing Benefits of Cranberries - Seasonal and Vegan Recipe Included

Cranberries, the cousin of blueberries, have long been valued for their ability to help prevent and treat urinary tract infections. Recent studies show that this berry may also promote gastrointestinal and oral health, prevent the formation of kidney stones, lower LDL and raise HDL (good) cholesterol, aid in recovery from stroke, and even help prevent cancer.

Cranberries are a good source of vitamin C, a very good source of dietary fiber, and a great source of manganese and vitamin K. Cranberries are also a source of polyphenol antioxidants, which are being researched for their possible benefits to the cardiovascular system and immune system.

Fresh cranberries are at their peak during the holiday season between October and December. When in season choose fresh, plump cranberries, deep red in color, and quite firm to the touch. Firmness is a primary indicator of quality. The deeper red their color, the more highly concentrated are cranberries’ beneficial compounds.

When the season is over or if you can’t find fresh cranberries but still want all the nutritional benefits, simply look for dried or frozen cranberries at your local grocery store. The recipe included is perfect as a holiday side dish or throw over brown rice to make a complete vegan meal.



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Health tip of the day: Benefits of Manganese

Manganese is an essential trace mineral. Human body contain about 12 to 20 mg. of manganese, which is concentrated in the liver, kidney, pancreas, skin, muscles and bones.

Manganese is needed for bone development and maintenance of strong bones. It is also important in the utilisation of thiamine, helps to activate enzymes that are necessary for the body's proper use of biotin, B1 and vitamin C.

Other Function of Manganese in the Body :

1- Manganese is important in the formation of thyroxin, the principal hormone of the thyroid gland.
2- Helps in the formation of substances that combat infection.
3- For protein build up such as nucleic acid.
4- Good adjunct in the treatment of diabetes such as eating of alfalfa and spinach.
5- Needed for failing memory.

Symptoms of Deficiency :

- Poor bone growth, Diabetes, Loss of weight, Slowed growth of hair and nails, Poor muscle coordination, Dizziness, Ear noises

Causes of Toxicity :

1- Few cases of manganese toxicity have resulted from ingesting large dose of the mineral supplement for 4 to 5 years.
2- Drinking water from well contaminated with manganese from buried batteries, and prolonged
3- Exposure and inhalation of ore dust.

Sign of Toxicity :

- Poor appetite, Apathy, Depression, Weakness, Impotence, Disturbed sleep, Temporary insanity, Dementia, Violence
- Parkinsonism (muscular rigidity, tremor, monotone voice, "frozen" masklike face).

Recommended Daily Intake :

- Daily Requirement - 5 mg.
- Supplemental Dosage - For tardive dyskinesia (abnormal or disordered movement) 30 to 60 mg. /day.

Food Sources :

- Green leafy vegetables, beans, whole grains (unpolished), nuts, coffee

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Vitamin C May Prevent Skin Damage

Vitamin C has long been touted for its role in strengthening the immune system, but new research suggests it could protect the skin as well.

Researchers from the University of Leicester and the Institute for Molecular and Cellular Biology on Portugal said in a statement that a form of vitamin C helps promote wound healing and also helps protect the DNA damage of skin cells.

Specifically, the researchers said a form of the vitamin, ascorbic acid 2-phosphate, may help repair skin damage caused by exposure to the sun.

The researchers said their study has the potential to lead to preventive medications and treatments for skin damage, and help in treating and preventing skin cancer.

The study is published in the journal, Free Radical Biology and Medicine.



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Recipe for Health: Chickpeas healthy addition to Mediterranean diet

We hear a lot about the Mediterranean diet lately, with its heart-healthy benefits. This type of eating plan embraces an abundance of fruits and vegetables, including legumes, and liberal use of olive oil. Fish and nuts are also widely included.

Folks in the Mediterranean also walk more frequently, drink small amounts of wine regularly and usually forego high-fat, high-sugar treats for fruit-based desserts.
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are high in folate, fiber magnesium and the trace mineral manganese. Try them out in hummus, a falafel or today's recipe for Corsican Chickpea Salad.

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are high in folate, fiber magnesium and the trace mineral manganese. Try them out in hummus, a falafel or today's recipe for Corsican Chickpea Salad.

The payoff for eating like this is lower blood pressure, better blood sugar readings and healthier blood lipid levels. Recent research out of Columbia University Medical Center also suggests proponents of the Mediterranean way of eating have significantly less risk of developing Alzheimer's disease than folks who eat a more westernized diet.

You really can't pinpoint one thing that makes this way of eating so healthful. It's many things, probably all working together.

More fruits, vegetables and legumes on the plate crowds out, or at least shrinks, the meat portion. This change alone provides lots of health benefits. A plate with a smaller serving of meat and a larger portion of vegetables automatically provides less saturated fat and more fiber, folate and vitamin C. Less saturated fat usually equates to lower LDL levels and lower heart disease risk. More fiber can help lower LDL cholesterol too. Greater amounts of folate in the diet helps lower homocysteine levels, also a heart disease risk factor, and more vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, keeping inflammation of our arteries low and our immune system function high.

Olive oil, a mainstay in the Mediterranean diet, contains a substance called oleocanthal. This compound may also help reduce inflammation throughout the body, lowering risk for several chronic diseases including diabetes, arthritis and Alzheimer's.

One caveat, though. Olive oil and nuts are high in fat and fat is high in calories. Yes, it is heart-healthy fat, and generally won't raise your blood lipid levels, but like all fat, olive oil provides 9 calories per gram. Too many extra grams means too many extra calories get stored as body fat. So enjoy the olive oil and nuts, just don't go overboard. A little goes a long way.

Today's recipe makes a substantial salad which can be a lovely accompaniment to a piece of grilled fish, or eaten as a main dish for a light meal with a piece of good bread and some fruit.

Chickpeas, the main ingredient, are also called garbanzo beans. This legume is quite high in folate, fiber, magnesium and manganese. Magnesium helps blood vessels relax so that there is less resistance to blood flow, helping keep blood pressure low and blood vessels healthy. Manganese is a trace mineral, needed in very small amounts, but it has some big duties. This important mineral, found abundantly in chickpeas, is a cofactor in several enzymes that help the body produce energy and defend against free radicals. A half cup serving of chickpeas, which is about the amount in a serving of today's salad, provides more than 40 percent of the daily value for manganese.

You might have eaten chickpeas, or garbanzo beans, as part of hummus or falafel, both important foods in the Middle Eastern and Mediterranean regions. You can also add this versatile legume to cooked pasta drizzled with olive oil and tossed together with garlic and perhaps some feta or Parmesan cheese and fresh oregano or basil. Try tossing it into a serving of soup to increase the total vegetable content. Or make your own hummus by combining chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice and olive oil in a blender or food processor.

Or just make this salad. It goes together quickly and the flavors complement each other nicely, providing you with a flavorful dish that gives you health benefits as well.

Corsican Chickpea Salad

3 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

1 tbsp. white wine vinegar

1 tbsp. Dijon mustard

1 tbsp. minced fresh parsley

2 cups cooked chickpeas, drained (you can use canned)

1 small sweet onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)

2 garlic cloves, minced

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste (if desired)

In a medium-sized bowl, stir together the olive oil, vinegar, mustard and parsley. Add the remaining ingredients, toss well and serve at room temperature. Makes 4 servings.

Per serving: 240 calories, 12.5 gm fat, 2 gm saturated fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 26 gm carbohydrates, 7 gm fiber, 8 gm protein, 29 mg sodium.



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Healthy food is the best way to boost the immune system

With the arrival of the cold-and-flu season, it may be tempting to load up on mega doses of vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements as an added precaution.

But as scientists discover more about how the immune system works, they are finding evidence that it is the complex interaction of nutrients in real food that helps the body build its defenses against disease and infection. They even warn that large doses of some supplements such as selenium, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin B6 and vitamin E may even harm and suppress the immune response.

There are nutrients in everyday foods which can help to make your body's defenses stronger.

VITAMIN C: Vitamin C is a powerhouse nutrient in your defense system. Its antioxidant properties enhance cellular regeneration. Smokers need additional vitamin C, due to reduced absorption. Excellent food sources include berries and citrus fruits as well as leafy green vegetables.

VITAMIN E: Another antioxidant that is particularly important in preventing cell membrane damage, vitamin E works best in tandem with selenium. This nutrient is plentiful in nuts and seed oils, whole grain cereals and sweet potatoes.

FATTY ACIDS: Omega-3 fatty acids cannot be produced by the body like some other nutrients. They must be provided by the diet. Aiming for three portions a week is a good building block for health. You can enjoy the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids from oily fish such as sardines, salmon and trout and also from flaxseed.

PROBIOTICS: Live bacteria cultures found in natural yogurt and kefir stimulate the body to generate a chemical that makes it more resistant to infection. This chemical is called gamma interferon. It is an important enhancer for immunity. Probiotics are also crucial when medical antibiotics are being taken, as those can destroy the good bacteria in your body.

SELENIUM: Selenium is used by the body to metabolize vitamin E. It is pulled from the soil into the food. Brazil nuts are the richest natural source of this nutrient. You will also find its benefits in beef, chicken, and some fish.

ZINC: Zinc is crucial for the immune system's cell development. It also helps insure wounds heal properly. It is plentiful in eggs, seafood, pumpkin seeds, liver, and Brazil nuts.

GARLIC: Garlic is not a nutrient. It is food deserving special mention. It has very strong antibiotic and antiviral properties with more than 400 active compounds.

CAROTENOIDS and OTHER PHYTONUTRIENTS: Powerful phytonutrients (plant nutrients) are associated with health benefits. There are over 12,000 known phytonutrients and some yet to be identified. The yellow/orange fruits and vegetables like carrots, red and yellow peppers, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, peaches, nectarines, pineapples, mangoes and oranges are first-rate sources of carotenoids which are converted into vitamin A, a powerful cold and flu fighter.

Many other immunity-boosting phytonutrients are found in other fresh fruits and vegetables. This is why the USDA recommends eating four to six cups of produce a day in a variety of colors – yellow, orange, red, dark green, white, purple and blue.

Cooperative Extension nutrition educators in Vilas County are working with the Commission on Aging, the Public Health Department and Social Services to plan education programs for adults in their communities. According to Terri Miller, the U.W. - Extension Wisconsin Nutrition Education Program Coordinator for Vilas, Florence and Forest counties, adults who participate in these programs will learn to make affordable changes to improve the quality of meals, snacks and beverage choices, as recommended by the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans.



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Kiwi fruit 'really works' for health

The adage about an apple a day keeping the doctor away may have to be changed to kiwifruit.

The furry fruit could be the key to living longer as it appears to be the perfect food for preventing all sorts of liver problems, as well as keeping white blood cells healthy, says Professor Robin Fraser, of Otago University's Christchurch School of Medicine.

Fraser, who has seen many unhealthy livers in his time as a pathologist, is a convert to the benefits of the fruit.

"It just seems as though it works," he said. "I'm so convinced that I eat kiwifruit every morning for my breakfast."

Fraser likened the liver to a sieve that when working properly effectively filtered the carrier of cholesterol.

But those holes could be closed because of excess drinking, an overly fatty diet, smoking, illicit drug use and stress, he said. That led to atherosclerosis, which was a major killer through heart failure, strokes, gangrenous feet and aortic aneurism.

A daily dose of kiwifruit, along with a healthier lifestyle, appeared to be able to reopen those holes in the liver, he said.

Fraser, who was speaking at the annual scientific meeting of the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia in Christchurch yesterday, said it was an exciting development.

He said kiwifruit was the most efficient way of getting the recommended dose of vitamin C, the active ingredient that appeared to fix the liver.

Dr Margreet Vissers, the dean of research at Otago University in Christchurch, said that while most people thought of oranges for vitamin C, kiwifruit was the better option.

"Out of one kiwifruit you will get the complete recommended daily allowance."

While some berries and red peppers had higher amounts of vitamin C, people had to eat a lot more to get the required amount, she said.

The liver hypothesis had been given added credence by a recent study in the United States that found that Werner syndrome, a liver problem that led to premature ageing, could be reversed in mice by extra doses of vitamin C, Vissers said.

The extra vitamin C opened holes in the liver, allowing it to work properly.

Vissers said vitamin C was also needed by white blood cells to kill bacteria and ensured they did not kill off everything else in the process.

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To Be Or Not To Be... Vegetarian

Many times when I am working with a client and trying to get a feel of what they like to eat, I hear, “Oh, I never eat red meat, it’s soo not good for you.” Being a carnivore (and Sephardic to boot!) I could never just stop eating red meat, cold turkey that is! (It’s still a great source of iron and a lean cut is pretty high in protein, vitamins, and isn’t high in fat.) But practically speaking, is there any health benefit to being a vegetarian? Can a diet without meat provide adequate nutrients?

A vegetarian does not eat meat, fish, or fowl, or any product containing them. A typical vegetarian diet focuses on grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables; still, considerable variations exist. A lacto-ovo vegetarian avoids meat, fish, and poultry, but consumes dairy products and eggs. The lacto vegetarian consumes dairy but avoids meat, fish, poultry, and eggs. A vegan, or total vegetarian, excludes both dairy and eggs, obtaining all nutrients from plant sources. So how prevalent is vegetarianism in the U.S.? A 2006 poll conducted by the Vegetarian Resource Group found that 7% of adults never eat red meat and that 2.3% never eat meat, fish, or fowl. That’s no small cheese!

Why would someone want to choose to be a vegetarian? There are a variety of reasons people do so, including concern about the environment, animal welfare, or world hunger; or they simply don’t like the taste, never really ate meat often anyway, or believe it is unhealthy. Aside from a healthier lifestyle, religious beliefs and/or economic issues may also factor into this choice.

From a more traditional standpoint, the science of nutrition has focused mainly on the intake of nine nutrients that are adequate to promote growth and reproduction. Lately, however, this paradigm has been shifting towards focusing on an “optimal diet” which promotes not only health and longevity but also reduces the risk of diet-related chronic diseases or the prevention of other diseases, including cancer. A vegetarian eating plan can be adequate and optimal and may even provide numerous health benefits.

According to various studies, reduced red-meat consumption correlates with healthier cholesterol levels, other heart health benefits, and reduced rates of pancreatic and colorectal cancers. (Please note: It was unclear how much meat was consumed prior and subsequent to the study to produce that effect and how fatty the meats were.)

Studies have shown that a vegetarian diet may aid in weight management. In 2007, Burke and colleagues suggested that individuals that adhered to a lacto-ovo vegetarian regimen were able to reduce intakes of both fat and calories and therefore reduce overall body weight. Another comprehensive study published by the International Journal of Obesity and Related Metabolic Disorders (2003) examined the body mass index (BMI) of four different groups, including meat eaters, fish eaters, vegetarians, and vegans. The meat eaters had the highest BMI, followed by fish eaters and vegetarians. Vegans had the lowest BMI of all groups.

Contrary to popular belief, an individual’s protein requirements can be met solely with plant foods. Although animal proteins are considered “complete proteins,” since they contain all eight essential amino acids, plant sources of protein are lacking in one or more of them and are referred to as “incomplete” or “complementary” proteins. Some individuals know how to pair up the protein sources to get a complete protein. Some wholesome combinations include pasta and veggies, a peanut-butter sandwich (on whole grain bread—not just whole wheat!) with vegetable soup, or a green salad with walnuts and sunflower seeds.

When a variety of plant foods are consumed and adequate calorie levels are satisfied, the incomplete proteins will combine to form complete ones; the amino acids will find and join each other. If you don’t necessarily consume complementary proteins in the same meal, you can just consume them throughout the day.

Who needs meat, right? What’s the catch here? The challenge is getting enough of certain nutrients by eating a variety of foods. One such nutrient, vitamin B12, which contains cobalamine, biotin, and folic acid, may be lacking in vegetarians since it is found predominantly in meat protein. This is especially the case for pregnant and depressed individuals. The good news is that lacto-ovo vegetarians can get adequate B12 if they consume whole eggs and dairy regularly. Vegans have to be sure to consume fortified foods, such as breakfast cereals, nutritional yeast, or soy milk. Just some food for thought: spirulina, sea vegetables, and fermented soy products are not reliable sources of this important vitamin.

Vegetarians, especially vegans, must make sure to consume Vitamin D and calcium, both essential for bone health. Lack of Vitamin D can interfere with normal bone metabolism, leading to rickets in children and osteoporosis in adults. In a study by Barr (2002) of 90 vegetarians, 56 reported that their diets have become restrictive over time, and 48 planned more changes, specifically, to use fewer dairy products.

Furthermore, a Swedish study of 30 vegans concluded that intakes of calcium and vitamin D were below recommended guidelines. Specifically, when dairy products are omitted, fortified foods such as soy, milk, cereals, breads, and juices must be consumed. Unfortunately, vegetable sources of calcium, such as spinach, contain high amounts of oxalic acid, which interferes with absorption.

Foods rich in Vitamin D include fortified milk products, fatty fish such as salmon, and fish liver oils, most notably cod liver oil. Fortified foods and eggs from hens fed Vitamin D are also good sources. And the best source of Vitamin D is the sun! Just a few minutes a day is all you need. However, factors such as the use of sunscreen, the time of day, the season of the year, the level of the pigment melatonin in the skin, and even the distance one is from the equator, all limit the skin’s ability to produce this vitamin.

A vegetarian must also consume iron. Iron is a vital part of hemoglobin, a protein that transports oxygen in the blood. Iron intake is important during all stages of life, especially for growing children, and pregnant and menstruating women. The iron in meat, fish, and poultry is “heme” iron, which the body absorbs readily. The iron in dairy, eggs, plant foods, cereals, and breads is “non-heme,” which is less readily absorbed. However, foods rich in Vitamin C, such as tomatoes, oranges, and broccoli, aid in the absorption of non-heme iron.

So, if you ate spaghetti and tomato sauce, the Vitamin C in the sauce should help with absorbing the iron in the spaghetti. In addition, those individuals who exercise must make sure their iron levels are adequate, since many people, especially females who participate in intense, regular physical activity, report marginal to low levels of iron. Iron requirements may be 30% to 70% greater in active people as compared to sedentary people.

In conclusion, a well-planned vegetarian diet can be an excellent choice for maintaining a health-conscious lifestyle. Protein consumption is less of a concern than ingesting adequate vitamins and minerals from a variety of sources. So with careful planning, enjoy nature’s bounty to the fullest!



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Health Benefits of Pineapple

Contains the protein digesting enzyme mixture called bromelain. (Bromelain is known to help relieve or even stop coughs altogether because it is an anti-inflammatory and is known to loosen mucus.) Good for heart conditions in that it reduces the time taken to coagulate the blood. However, it should not be used by persons with hemophilia, kidney or liver diseases. Relieves sore throats and bronchitis. Can help

prevent nausea. Relief to arthritis. Oranges: High in vitamin C, Anti-infective, Supports a healthy immune system, Produces collagen for healthy bones, cartilage, muscles, blood vessels and healthy skin. Lemons: High in vitamin C, Healing properties for digestive problems, Tonic to the liver, Help fight infections, by hastening wound healing, Helps lower fever, Helps relieves symptoms of asthma, tonsillitis and sore throat.



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Feed Your Libido-Sexually Enhancing Benefits of Pomegranates-Vegan Recipe Included

For centuries, pomegranates have been used to promote fertility, increase vitality and to lengthen and improve human life. Foods that resembled seeds or eggs were historically thought to be aphrodisiacs. It turns out, those ancient sexual beings were on to something. The pomegranate, with its abundance of seeds, is said to be a symbol of fertility. The seeds of the fruit were often compared to the seeds of life. Nutritionally speaking, the pomegranate offers your body an array of nutrients that will not only increase your overall health, but may just boost your libido and sexual vigor as well.

Pomegranates contain almost half your daily quota of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that is required for at least 300 different metabolic functions in the body. Vitamin C is also a protector from free radical damage and a facilitator of good circulation, which is vital for sexual health and pleasure. They also contain vitamin B5, the anti-stress vitamin needed for proper adrenal function, and vitamins A and E, which help to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Pomegranate oil is now being used in many menopause products to help reduce symptoms, as well as in vaginal creams to help eliminate dryness, which can make sex painful. Pomegranate juice is easily found at your local grocery store, often mixed with other super-fruits, offering you an antioxidant cocktail that is easily assimilated by the body. The seeds are great in cold salads, on (soy) yogurt with some nuts or paired with greens for a sweet and tart delight. Do something good for your body today and try the greens recipes below to increase your overall health and feed your libido at the same time. It doesn’t get much better then that.


Wilted Greens with Pomegranate and Pumpkin Seeds

Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 10 min
Yields: 4 servings (as a side dish)

Ingredients:

3 bunches of Leafy Greens (such as Swiss Chard, Escarole and Kale)-washed, stemmed and cut into pieces.
1 Shallot-chopped
½ cup Pomegranate Seeds
½ cup Pumpkin Seeds
¼ cup Agave Nectar
½ cup Balsamic Vinegar
¾ cup Olive Oil, plus 1 teaspoon
Salt and Pepper to taste

Directions:

1) Toast pumpkin seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside to cool.
2) Sauté shallots with 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until soft. Set aside.
3) In a large saucepan, cook balsamic and agave over medium heat for 2 minutes. Add the cooked shallots and continue cooking for another 2 minutes.
4) Turn off the heat and slowly whisk in the ¾ cups of olive oil.
5) Pile the cut greens onto a platter or in a large bowl and pour the dressing over the greens.
6) Toss in the pomegranate seeds and toasted pumpkin seeds until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.


P.S. Know more about Sex. ( click here ).



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Fight Flu Season with Anti-Oxidant Booze

Flu season is upon us, and that usually goes hand in hand with colds and the like.

NowSuffice it to say, we're in prime time to get sick. You could do what your mom always told you to do, and stock up on fruits and veggies until it looks like a produce truck exploded in your fridge. Or, you could drink your anti-oxidants.

Yes, as well-made Bloody Mary (with real tomatoes) will give you healthy doses of vitamin A, and a Screwdriver can net you some C ... but why not take it a step further and actually use alcohol that comes from or incorporates fruits with anti-oxidant properties?

For example, we all know about the mighty pomegranate, with 16% of an adult's daily vitamin C requirement per 100 ml serving, and is a good source of vitamin B5, potassium and antioxidant polyphenols. PAMA pomegranate liqueur is made with real pomegranate juice, so you can get the benefits of pomegranate juice with a loopy kick.

Want to make it work even harder for your immune system? Make a drink like Mother Nature's Mix, with 1 oz of PAMA, a 1/2 oz of Acai juice, 1/2 an oz of ginger honey and 3 oz of chilled green tea. Not only will the pomegranate enhance immune function, but the green tea helps lower chances of heart disease!

Meanwhile, VeeV is a liqueur made from Açaí, the national fruit of Brazil purported to be a superfood. Why? Not only does it have tons of anti-oxidants, but it also has a ton of vitamins C and E, calcium, dietary fiber, protein, Omega 3s, and an almost perfect amino acid complex. On top of that, Açaí's nutrients reportedly fight premature aging, promote cardiovascular and digestive health, and are essential to proper muscle contraction and regeneration.

So go ahead and make a VeeV Anti-Oxidant Cooler, with 2 oz of VeeV, a splash of pomegranate juice, 5 blueberries and 8 pomegranate seeds.Muddle the berries in a mixing glass and add the VeeV and pomegranate juice in a cocktail shaker. Shake and strain, pour into a chilled glass, and watch every illness you've ever had get annihilated. (Okay, not really. But wouldn't that be fun?)

Lemons are awesome sources of vitamin C, and they're also purported to be anti-bacterial. So why not put together an awesome martini using TRU Organic Lemon Vodka, which has an incredible flavor courtesy of real organic lemons. That's the base of their Skinny Blueberry Martini - 1.5 oz of TRU Organic Lemon vodka, chilled, with ¼ cup organic blueberries either fresh or frozen, lightly mashed and ¼ teaspoon of grated fresh ginger. You'll also need 1 oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 oz of agave nectar (which has a very low glycemic value) and 1 oz soda water.

Just chill the martini glass with some ice, muddle the berries with the ginger, then add lemon juice and sweetener. Stir in the vodka and pour everything into your glass, including the berries. Then, top it with soda. The best part is you get to take advantage of antioxidants and heart-healthy fiber by eating the fruit, not just straining the juice.

And last but not least, you can always go the easy route and pour yourself some wine. Red wine is known for being rich in polyphenolic antioxidants, so why not get your daily dose from Bonterra Vineyards, the home of some of the tastiest wines made from organic grapes? Plus, Bonterra's grapes are produced without the use of any artificial fertilizers or synthetic chemicals, and Bonterra wines have less sulfites than non-organic wines.

Okay, so it may not be the secret cure we're all hoping for... but it's certainly more fun to get your vitamins in liquid form!



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Health tip of the day: Benefits of Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the most important anti-oxidant. It is important to know that Vitamin C is not produced by the body; therefore it is necessary to take a huge amount of it. When people age their natural Vitamin C level decreases, so as you get older you should take a higher dose of vitamin C to prevent this decrease.

The white blood cells which defend our body against bad elements, like bacterial invasion, need a huge amount of vitamin C to do its work. If the defense system of the body is not in good condition it will not do its work to defend our body from the enemies, the result of that is an illness and infection.

Things to know when taking Vitamin C:

- Vitamin C has diuretic effect so it is important to drink plenty of water.

- Vitamin C is sensitive to light, air, and heat, so it is best to eat fruits and vegetables raw or minimally cooked in order to retain their full vitamin C content.

- Taking Vitamin C with oat bran causes more to be absorbed into the body, increasing its health benefits. Oats is beneficial in lowering cholesterol in the blood.

Therapeutic Properties of Vitamin C:

- When a person have a throat infection or symptoms of the cold, it is important that she/he drink lemon juice or other citrus fruits that is rich in Vitamin C.

- Vitamins C are also good in the treatment of Urinary tract infection, and Respiratory system like Asthma, Bronchitis, and Chest Colds. It helps dryness of the mucous membrane in the lungs. There is a study that Vitamin C deficiency increases risk of lung cancer.

- Arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) is related to the lack of Vitamin C. A good dose will help lower cholesterol level in the blood.

- Vitamin C is important in the formation of collagen, an essential substance for the whole body. Abnormal functioning of collagen can produce; Aging, Muscular Pain, Gout, Rheumatic Fever, Rheumatoid arthritis, Colitis, and Inflammation of the Blood vessels. This condition can be stop if collagen has the ability to regenerate itself quickly. The only way that can happen is through a large intake of Vitamin C.

- Premature Aging, vitamin C is a great antidote for neutralizing free radicals than will cause premature again.

- Degenerative Diseases of the Eyes, many people who supplements with Vitamin. C has fewer eye problems; Doctors recommend 500mg - 1000mg daily

Recommended Dosage:

- People who will just take vitamin C for supplement can take 100mg - 500mg 2x a time after me
- People who are treating some illnesses should take 500mg - 1000mg.
- People who will take more than 1000mg per daily should consult their Doctor.

Sources of Vitamin C:

oranges, green peppers, watermelon, papaya, grapefruit, cantaloupe, strawberries, kiwi, mango, broccoli, tomatoes, cauliflower, cabbage, and citrus juices or juices fortified with Vitamin C. Raw and cooked leafy greens (turnip greens, spinach), red and green peppers, canned and fresh tomatoes, potatoes, winter squash, raspberries, blueberries, cranberries and pineapple

A Closer Look at Immune Boosters in Foods

Many products lining the grocery store shelves claim to help keep your immune system sharp. However, there are a few things you should know before you toss them in your cart.

Vitamins C, A, and E along with Zinc and Antioxidants help your body fight against infection. For years, these nutrients have been added to juices, cereals, and other items. Dietitians say it is both a blessing and a curse.

"There's benefits to those products but there's some negatives to them. Because they're just not having as many nutritional components as your fruits and vegetables." says Hy-Vee dietitian Sarah Nelson.

In fact, when juice is made, it removes some of the nutrients that help you process immune boosting ingredients. Hgh sugar content may outweigh the added benefits. Your body also digests artificial nutrient sources differently.

"It's not 100% that you're going to get, absorb those nutrients when it comes from a fortified food. What research shows is that if you do get your vitamins and minerals via food, or through your fruits and vegetable, you're going to absorb those a lot easier." says Nelson.

Oranges and bell peppers are a natural source of vitamin C, and lean meats will help with the zinc. If all else fails, fortified foods and multivitamins can help pick up the slack.

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QUESTION: Which fruit has the most vitamin C: kiwis, strawberries, oranges or apples?

ANSWER: First of all, you should note that the recommended dietary allowance, or RDA, for vitamin C is 75 milligrams for women and 90 mg for men.

The RDA is established by the Institute of Medicine (IOM), an independent, nonprofit organization that works outside of government to provide unbiased and authoritative advice to decision-makers and the public.

Some scientists believe that the RDA should be at least doubled, but you probably shouldn't consume more than 200 mg per day because the research does not support mega doses (more than 1,000 mg per day) of vitamin C. So which has the most C? We looked at 100 grams, or about 3.5 ounces, for each fruit in order to make an accurate comparison.

Apples have 52 calories per 100 grams and 4.6 mg of vitamin C. Kiwis have 61 calories per 100 grams and 92.7 mg of vitamin C.

Strawberries have 69 calories per 100 grams and 37 mg of vitamin C, and oranges have 47 calories per 100 grams and 53.2 mg of vitamin C. So, kiwis win.

Q: Why is vitamin C important?

A: It destroys free radicals, which can damage DNA and create cancers in our bodies; it helps boost our immune system by rallying white blood cells to fight off infection; and it even helps reduce heart disease by stopping plaque from forming.
Q: Which vegetable has the most fiber: broccoli, sweet potatoes, green peas or artichokes?

A: Again, we looked at 100 grams, or about 3.5 ounces, for each vegetable. Broccoli has 34 calories per 100 grams and 2.6 grams of fiber. Green peas have 81 calories per 100 grams and 5.1 grams of fiber and sweet potatoes with the skin have 90 calories per 100 grams and 3.3 grams of fiber. Now check out these stats for 100 grams of artichoke: 53 calories and 8.6 grams of fiber.
Q: Why is fiber so important?

A: Fiber-rich foods can help you lose weight for two reasons.

First, fiber provides bulk, which makes you feel full. Second, it slows digestion, which makes you feel satisfied longer. How does this happen?

Fiber postpones the gastric emptying of foods, which also may reduce a rise in blood glucose concentrations and help diabetics with insulin sensitivity. It also reduces the risk of heart disease and diabetes and lowers cholesterol.

Plus, fiber increases stool bulk, which can help prevent not only constipation, but also hemorrhoids and possibly colon cancer. The IOM recommends 14 grams of fiber per 1,000 calories consumed.

So if you consume 2,000 calories, you should be getting 28 grams of fiber.

The problem is most of us don't consume enough fiber.
Q: What's the difference between yellow popcorn and white popcorn?

A: Nutritionally speaking, there isn't much difference. The values for the fiber content based on a single serving of 5 cups of popped popcorn are the same.

Yellow kernels actually contain slightly more fiber than white kernels when you extend the values to 100 grams, but the difference is not significant.

Yellow kernels contain more vitamin A than white, while white kernels test slightly higher for iron.

According to Tom Elsen of the famed Jolly Time popcorn company, the real difference between the two varieties is in the eating. "White kernels tend to pop slightly smaller and, consequently, they are a bit more tender. Also yellow kernels have more of a traditional crunchy, corny flavor, while white kernels have a slightly sweet, nutty taste.
Q: So what are the nutritional stats for popcorn?

A: These whole grains have only 100 calories per 5 cups, which also pack 7 grams of fiber. Not only that, but recent research from the University of Scranton found that popcorn is loaded with healthful antioxidant substances called polyphenols.

Found in many fruits and vegetables, polyphenols help rid the body of free radicals that can cause damage to cells and tissues.
Q: I've heard that chocolate can stop a cough -- is that true?

A: Believe it or not, it is possible. But it's dark chocolate that has the benefits, not milk chocolate. In fact, historically, many people, including Nicolas de Blegny, doctor to the king of France in the late 1600s, have believed chocolate can help with coughs.

It is a great natural source of theobromine, which, according to researchers at the National Heart and Lung Institute at the Imperial College London, appears to be a natural cough suppressant.

Dark chocolate also seems to be a bronchodilator.

According to the journal Supportive Cancer Therapy, coughing is caused by an effect on C-fibers, which are part of our neural network, and theobromine suppresses that effect.

Another supposed effect of chocolate is that it releases mucus in the airways, which can soothe a dry cough.
Q: How much do you need?

A: Researchers say about 500 to 700 mg of theobromine twice daily. Dark chocolate (more than 60 percent cacao) has about 250 mg of theobromine per ounce, so we're talking about 4 ounces per day.



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Vitamin C Lowers Blood Pressure

Lynn Kerew Chiropractic is a Santa Monica Chiropractor that specializes in treating a variety of symptoms caused by improper ergonomics or a lack of vitamins. A recent Public Relations study for vitamin C products found that high blood pressure is a heavy contributor to strokes and heart attacks all over the world. While not everyone dies from it, this doesn’t mean it’s not potentially fatal. High blood pressure is in most cases caused by hypertension; by treating that disease, the blood pressure will usually turn to normal. There are a few things that cause it, among which are thyroid disease, alcohol, pregnancy, and obesity.

The aforementioned, are factors that can be averted through medication or discipline, but then there are the factors that cannot be averted in any way at all. They include gender, race, and age, among other things. They cannot be changed; they simply have to be lived with. There are medications however, that will reduce blood pressure. There are various pills, treatments, and other assortments of clinical remedies such as beta-blockers, which are usually prescribed after a heart attack. Unfortunately, while beta-blockers work wonders in reducing blood pressure, they also tend to cause Type 2 diabetes through the decrease of insulin sensitivity, which actually adds to the problem, since people who are insulin-resistant have been found to have extremely high blood pressure. It is amazing how much insulin has to do with blood pressure! So if you do have hypertension, make sure to have your blood sugar checked constantly, the ability to normalize your blood sugar will go a long way in preventing high blood pressure.

All medications have a side effect of some kind, there’s no getting around it, and there are no exceptions. Yet some people believe that drugs are the only way, after all, that is what most hospitals will tell you. So what do you do? Once again, nature provides, you can eat fruits and vegetables, which help a lot with high blood pressure due to the vitamins in them.

A recent study has shown that vitamin C is capable of reducing blood pressure. The study consisted of about 250 women, from the ages eight to eleven years old, and the study lasted for about ten years, it was shown that vitamin C did indeed reduce their blood pressure. It has also been noted though, that vitamin C is best used with other blood pressure reducing remedies such as green tea, and some tea is actually made with vitamin C in it already.

This is an excellent discovery, when you consider the damage drugs can do to your body. If you have ever watched a drug commercial, you’ve probably heard them list the side effects, and the list they give causes more problems than the drug is supposed to cure, making it not even worth it. But if a cure can be found within nature, then such things can be avoided, and good health can be obtained in our own backyards. Meaning that while age, gender, race, and social status cannot be changed(yet), the high blood pressure that accompanies them can be kept in line, and help you to live a happy, stroke free life with your friends, family, and loved ones for many years to come.

P.S. know the relation between Vitamin C and Vitamin D.

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FDA Warns About Misleading NyQuil Labels Promoting Vitamin C Benefits

Labels on some bottles of the popular over-the-counter cold remedies Vicks NyQuil and DayQuil contain false and misleading claims about the health benefits of vitamin C contained in the products, the Food and Drug Administration said.


The FDA has sent a warning label to Procter and Gamble Co., the maker of the products, to point out that agency rules forbid combining vitamin C and other active ingredients in the over-the-counter products.

NyQuil and DayQuil bottles also have run afoul of the FDA because they list vitamin C as an inactive ingredient, officials said.

“Because the vitamin C in these products is an active drug ingredient, it is therefore both false and misleading to state that it is an inactive ingredient in these drug products,” the FDA wrote in a letter sent to the company, according to a Reuters news report.

The labels on DayQuil Plus Vitamin C say the products contain more than 150 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin C. The FDA said listing vitamin C as both a dietary ingredient and an inactive ingredient in the labeling is misleading and confusing to consumers.

Procter and Gamble said the way vitamin C is promoted on the NyQuil and DayQuil labels is designed to distinguish the benefits provided by the products’ active ingredients compared to the dietary supplement use of vitamin C.

The company issued a statement saying it is “marketing within the FDA regulations and will work with the FDA to resolve the concern together.” The FDA asked Procter & Gamble to respond within 15 days to say how the company plans to address the concerns about labeling claims.

Bayer Products Also Cited for Labeling Claims

This is not the first time the FDA has warned drug manufacturers about labeling claims of benefits from dietary supplements. In October 2008, the agency said some over-the-counter Bayer aspirin products were being illegally marketed because they contained dietary supplements that had not been proven effective. The pain relievers involved in that FDA action were Bayer Aspirin with Heart Advantage and Bayer Women’s Low Dose Aspirin + Calcium.

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Beneits of Tea

Tea has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer benefits. An antioxidant works against “free radicals” which are unbalanced molecules that oxidize skin and body cells leading to aging. The plant leaf known as Camellia sinensis is where black tea, green tea, oolong tea and white tea are derived. Drinking tea contributes to beautiful skin and a healthy body with additional benefits such as reducing the risk of heart attack and preventing osteoporosis.

The teas derived from this plant differ in the way they are dried and fermented. They are rich sources of Vitamin C and E and contain Tannic acid. Tannic acid helps clean the skin and eliminate odour causing bacteria. Green Tea also contains the amino acid L-theanine which has a calming effect against the caffeine found in tea. There are also herbal teas made from dried plants, flowers and leaves such as hibiscus, chamomile, mint, rose petals and rosehips.Black Tea is fully fermented during processing and has the antioxidant benefits found in green and white tea but to a lesser extent. It doesn’t taste as grassy as green tea because it is fermented. The fermentation process reduces the antioxidant effect.

Green Tea is not fermented at all and Oolong Tea is in between black and green tea in processing. Green Tea probably is the most beneficial of all teas owing to its properties and availability. Its proven anti-inflammatory properties are beneficial to the skin. It is also known to help strengthen teeth (due to the fluoride content), inhibit breast and ovarian cancer, burn fat, reduce insulin resistance and promote a healthy heart to mention a few. Research has shown that the breast cancer risk in Japanese women is significantly reduced in those who drink 6-10 small cups of green tea per day.

White Tea is the least processed of all teas and is similar to green tea. It tastes light and sweet and does not have the grassy taste of green tea. The white tea leaves are picked and harvested before the leaves fully open and the buds are covered with white hair hence the name. It has the most benefits of all the teas as it contains the most cancer fighting antioxidants and its scarcity makes it more expensive. There is considerably less caffeine in white tea (15mg per serving) than the other varieties with Black Tea containing 40mg per serving and Green Tea 30mg per serving. White Teas are produced mostly in China and Japan . The Darjeeling region of India also produces some fine white teas.

Health Benefits of Herbal Teas

There are several plants used for herbal teas and the health benefits are varied. The following are some commonly consumed herbal teas

·Chamomile Tea calms the nerves, induces sleep, eases cold symptoms and soothes the stomach. The flowers are used.

·Ginger Root Tea improves circulation, relieves cold and flu symptoms, eases stomach cramps and nausea, eases menstrual cramps and regulates blood sugar.

·Rooibos Tea is an herbal tea from South Africa . It’s distinctively red in colour, and has a strong sweet taste, with a nutty aftertaste. It’s rich in antioxidants and has relaxing properties.

·Fennel Tea from its seeds, improves appetite, aids the digestive process, relieves stomach cramps, eliminates flatulence and soothes sore throat and cough.

·Kava Kava Tea promotes sleep, is a muscle relaxant, eases anxiety, is a diuretic and it promotes urinary tract health. The roots are used.
·Mint Tea from its leaves eases stomach and digestive problems, helps relieve headaches and is relaxing.

·Rosehip Tea from its seed pods or “hips” has antioxidant properties, is a good source of Vitamin C, eases headaches and prevents bladder infections.

·St. John’s Wort Tea from its leaves relieves anxiety and irritability, is a relaxant, lifts the spirit and improves mood.
·Thyme Tea from its leaves boosts the immune system, promotes perspiration, is antiseptic and it eases sore throat and cough.

·Yarrow Tea from its flowers reduces cold symptoms and chest congestion and improves digestion and appetite.

·Valerian Tea from its roots is a relaxant, promotes sleep, eases nerves and relieves stomach cramps.

·Licorice Root Tea relieves cough and sore throat, improves digestion, eases menstrual cramps, reduces seasonal allergies and is believed to increase libido.
·Burdock Root Tea stimulates the liver, cleanses the blood, is anti-inflammatory, helps regulate blood sugar and has antioxidant properties.
·Cinnamon Tea from its bark improves circulation, eases cold and flu symptoms, relieves stomach upsets and menstrual cramps and helps regulate blood sugar and insulin.

·Strawberry Leaf Tea from its leaves and not the fruit soothes the stomach, relieves diarrhoea, and helps ease arthritis and rheumatism.
·Nettle Tea from its leaves is rich in Vitamins A and C, cleanses the blood, improves liver and kidney function, eases cough and other respiratory problems, and relieves diarrhoea and constipation.

·Sage Tea from its leaves calms nerves, improves digestion and eases lung congestion and cough.

·Fruit Teas Various fruits have also been used as infusions for tea.

Tea Beauty Tips

·Eye puffiness can be treated by applying cool moistened tea bags over them for about 10minutes.

·Soaking feet in black tea helps reduces odour because of its astringent and antibacterial properties.

·Placing a moistened green tea bag over an insect bite or wound helps soothe the area and reduce itching and swelling.
·A cooled strong cup of green tea may be used as an astringent for acne prone skin.

·Herbal Tea could add colour to hair. Sage will darken hair, Chamomile lightens blonde hair and Hibiscus tea gives red hair highlights.

·Using black or Ceylon tea for mixing henna hair colour instead of water improves the intensity.

·Sunburned skin may be soothed by having a tea bath. Run a tap over 4 to 5 teabags of Green, Jasmine or Oolong tea to fill bathtub and soak in warm water. Gently pat body dry and apply a soothing moisturiser.

P.S. know the Benefits of Vitamin D.

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Health Benefits of Stinging Nettle

Nettle (Urtica dioica) has recently become a popular treatment for allergies based on a small study found in the July issue of the Phytotherapy Research journal. Nettle is an herb commonly found in the damp areas of Europe and North America. The roots, leaves, and seeds are all said to have health benefits. When infused in boiling water, the roots and leaves make tea.

The recent study shows that the nettle extract inhibits several key inflammatory events that cause the symptoms of seasonal allergies. Histamines in the herb can reduce the body’s response to pollen and other allergens.

The study appears to confirm results found in an older study which used a freeze-dried preparation of the nettle herb in individuals with allergic rhinitis. After one week of therapy, the herbal treatment was found to reduce symptoms.

Stinging Nettles is a common plant that has been used medicinally throughout history. Caesar’s Roman troops are thought to have brought nettle from England and used the spines for warmth. Touching the stingers on the nettle plant causes an allergic reaction, probably due to the formic acid found in the stingers which initiates a localized histamine release, thus producing a burning sensation.

In Europe, it was used as a spring tonic, a treatment for scurvy, as a diuretic, and a treatment for joint pain. Nettle is rich in Vitamin C and the antioxidants beta-carotene and vitamin E. It is also high in chlorophyll, iron, potassium, magnesium, chromium, and zinc.

Other possible health benefits for nettle include anti-inflammatory effects, relief of benign prostatic hyperplasia and urinary tract infections, and the lowering of blood pressure and blood sugar. Nettle tea also has a mild laxative effect, which could be useful for the treatment of constipation.

Stinging nettle is available as a dried leaf, extract, capsules and as a root tincture. Typical dosage is 600 mg dried herb or 2-4 ml per day of fluid extract in divided doses. To make a tea, prepare 2/3 cup of boiling water over 3 to 4 teaspoons of dried leaves or root and steep for 3-5 minutes.

As a side effect, it may occasionally cause mild gastrointestinal irritation when taken internally. It may also cause a rash with topical use. It is not recommended for use in pregnancy, as studies have indicated that it may alter the menstrual cycle and contribute to miscarriage. It has also not been established as safe for children to use.

Because stinging nettle can affect the blood’s ability to clot, it could interfere with blood-thinners such as Coumadin, Plavix and aspirin. It should also not be used with prescription medications for high blood pressure or diabetes. Always discuss all non-prescription treatments with your primary care physician.



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Health Tip of the day: Amazing Benefits of Goji Berries

Goji berry is a sweet-tasting, dark-red coloured fruit, this fruit has extraordinary healing properties that most people don't know about, it is considered as the world's most nutrient-dense food. For over 2,000 years Goji has proven to improve many health conditions and cure ailments. Goji is said to contain more vitamin C than oranges, more beta-carotene than carrots, and more iron than steak.

It is a common practice in Chinese medicine to prescribe it to treat liver, kidney, or eye diseases, along with other herbs medicine. Many Chinese people consume goji berries in their day-to-day lives because they believe that red coloured berry can keep them healthy, young, and energetic. Goji berries can be eaten as raw, as goji juice, as herbal tea (e.g. with Chrysanthemum), with yogurt, and with cereal etc.

Health Benefits of Goji

- Goji is known as the "longevity fruit." Its unique master molecule polysaccharides and powerful antioxidants fight against free radicals that cause damage on the body.

- Goji increases stamina and endurance, it helps to eliminate fatigue, especially when recovering from illness.

- Goji stimulates the secretion by the pituitary gland of hGH (human growth hormone), the youth hormone. The benefits of hGH includes; reduction of body fat, better sleep, improved memory, accelerated healing, restored libido and a more youthful appearance.

- Goji can help protect your DNA. Exposure to chemicals, pollutants and free radicals can cause DNA damage and breakage, leading to genetic mutations, cancer and even death. Goji's betaine and master molecule polysaccharides can restore and repair damaged DNA.

- Goji can help you lose weight. In a study done obese patient were given good quality goji juice in the morning and afternoon. Most patients significantly lose a lot of weight. Goji polysaccharides were shown to reduce body weight by enhancing the conversion of food into energy instead of fat.

- Goji can reduce the toxic effect of Chemotherapy and Radiation. Goji was shown to enhance the effect of radiation in combating lung cancer, allowing a lower dose to be used. Other research indicates that goji can protect against some of the noxious side effects of chemotherapy and radiation.

- Goji can help enhance sexual function. Studies have shown that goji significantly increases testosterone level in the blood, thereby increasing libido in both men and women.

- Goji berries are popular for their vision-improvement properties. It was found in the study that goji was able to reduce the time it takes for vision to adapt to darkness. The carotenoids in goji may also protect against macular degeneration and cataracts.

- Goji can prevent cancer. Goji's antioxidant and unique polysaccharides can stop the genetic mutations that can lead to cancer. Some scientists believe that goji may be an especially good supplement to prevent liver cancer because it exerts liver protection and anti-cancer effects at the same time.

- Goji can inhibit cancer growth. Goji also has the ability to cause the death of tumor cells by inducing apoptosis, a process in which cancer cells are broken down and recycled.

- Goji helps to manage and fight cancer. Patient taking a cancer drug together with goji has recovery rate of up to 250 percent better than those patient taking the drug alone. These advanced-cancer patient experienced amazing regressions of malignant melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, colorectal carcinoma, lung cancer, nasopharyngeal carcinoma and malignant hydrothorax. Remission of cancers in patient treated with goji lasted significantly longer than those treated without goji.

- Goji can help improve memory. Goji is considered as "brain tonic", because it contains betaine, which is converted in the body into choline, substances that enhance memory and recall ability.

- Goji can make you feel happy. It is said that the daily consumption of Goji can give a person a happy disposition.

Other Health Benefits of Goji Berry includes;

- Goji can help to strengthen your immune system and heart, help support normal kidney and liver function, maintain healthy cholesterol level, normalise blood pressure, prevent and control diabetes.

- Goji can also help to strengthen the muscles and bones, maintain healthy gums and improve your digestion and it can help you to get a good night sleep.

Nutrient Contents of Goji: 11 essential elements, 22 trace dietary minerals, 18 amino acids, 6 essential vitamins, 8 polysaccharides, and 6 monosaccharide. It contains 5 unsaturated fatty acids (essential fatty acids, linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid, beta-sitosterol and other phytosterols), 5 carotenoids (e.g. beta-carotene and zeaxanthin etc), xanthophy, and many phenolic pigments associated with antioxidant properties.

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Pumpkins more than just pie

With Halloween only weeks away and Thanksgiving just around the corner, it is time to start thinking about pumpkins. It's a great time to head to the pumpkin patch with the children to select a jack-o'-lantern or dig out your favorite recipe to satisfy seasonal cravings for the spicy smooth taste of traditional pie.

The grocery stores, nurseries and vegetable markets will soon overflow with a variety of shapes, sizes and colors.

Pumpkins are visible throughout our culture in nursery rhymes and fairy tales. Who could forget "Peter, Peter Pumpkin Eater" or the pumpkin that Cinderella's fairy godmother turned into a coach for her trek to the ball to meet Prince Charming?

But there is more to the orange bulbous squash than stories and jack-o'-lanterns, more than pie and toasted pumpkin seeds. Pumpkin is healthy and versatile. It is a natural antioxidant, high in beta-carotene and an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C and iron. It is high in fiber, and low in fat and calories according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture nutritional information.

The options are limited only by your imagination and culinary creativity. There is pumpkin casserole, pumpkin jam, pumpkin pickles, pumpkin burgers and the list goes on. Incorporating pumpkin into main dishes is a natural for the vegetarian diet offering an autumn change of taste. If the task of preparing fresh pumpkin is too daunting, the canned varieties offer great pumpkin flavor and health benefits in less time.

Gabriele Oborski of Gourmet Catering suggests serving pumpkin preserves with beef or game, much like cranberry sauce for turkey.

Enjoy the season, add a little color to your life and your diet cooking by creatively with pumpkin — it's more than just pie.

Mexican Pumpkin Soup

For a quick and hearty dish to pair with your favorite salad and a loaf of warm crusty bread, Mexican pumpkin soup is healthy and satisfying.

Ingredients
1 large onion chopped
4-5 cloves of garlic, peeled and finely chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups pureed cooked pumpkin or 1 cup canned pumpkin
1 16-ounce can chili beans
1 tbsp. seeded diced jalapeño
5 medium red potatoes, diced into 1/2 inch cubes
1 tablespoons oregano
pinch of cayenne or other red pepper
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/3 cup milk (soy milk may be substituted)
Salt to taste

Directions
Using a large pot, sauté onions over medium heat until tender. Add garlic and cook for about one minute. Add remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Simmer for about 30 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Garnish with cilantro or parsley.

Pumpkin Ravioli

A special main course is only minutes away with this easy pumpkin ravioli, with only a fraction of the calories of meat or cheese varieties.

Ingredients
1 cup canned pumpkin
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
6 wonton wrappers
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Chopped parsley

Directions
Mix together pumpkin, Parmesan, salt and pepper. Spoon about 2 teaspoons pumpkin mixture into center of each wonton wrapper. Moisten edges of dough with water; bring 2 opposite sides together to form a triangle, pinching edges to seal. Place ravioli into a large saucepan of boiling water with 1 teaspoon salt; cook 7 minutes, and drain in a colander. Place 1/2 cup broth and 1 1/2 tablespoons butter in pan; bring to a boil. Add ravioli, tossing to coat. Sprinkle with parsley.




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High Cholesterol Levels may be Controlled by Vitamin C

Most people know that vitamin C is very important to one’s health. It helps build bones, teeth and tendons. It is a powerful antioxidant that may help slow the aging process. It also may reduce the length of colds and flu. Research performed by Dr. Jensen concludes that vitamin C also plays an important role in the regulation of the body’s cholesterol levels. In an article recently published on his health tips web site, Dr. Jensen points out that most cholesterol is actually made by the body; only about 15-20% of the cholesterol in the blood is from our diets. When someone has a diet that is high in cholesterol, the body slows cholesterol production and vice-versa. Unfortunately, for many different reasons some people cannot slow down their own cholesterol production as much as they should. Their blood cholesterol tests high and their doctor usually recommends that they go on a cholesterol-lowering drug, often the statins. However, vitamin C itself can lower cholesterol levels in the same way that statins do, without side effects.

The cholesterol-lowering statin drugs, like Lipotor, work by inhibiting (blocking) a key enzyme that helps make cholesterol in the body. Cholesterol levels in the bloodstream then lower. But this is not the end of the story. There can be serious side effects from taking the statin drugs, including muscle deterioration, kidney failure and liver problems. Other potential side effects are memory or cognitive problems from the cholesterol level in the brain actually becoming too low. Cholesterol is absolutely essential for making hormones and also forms an important part of the outside of cells (known as the cell’s membrane). Sometimes taking cholesterol-lowering drugs will end up lowering it too much, causing the additional side effects mentioned above.

How can people use vitamin C to cope with high cholesterol? Not only does vitamin C inhibit the same enzyme that the statins do, without any of their side effects, the amount of the enzyme inhibition depends on the amount of vitamin C someone takes. So, if their cholesterol levels are too high, they can take several grams of vitamin C daily. There is no evidence that vitamin C will lower cholesterol levels too much, so it’s a win-win situation. Vitamin C also regulates cholesterol in a different way. It converts it into a substance called a bile acid, which is then broken down by the liver. Vitamin C deficiency slows the above conversion, which can then make excess cholesterol accumulate in the arteries and also cause gallstones. There is much evidence now that vitamin C deficiency also raises cholesterol levels above normal.

Vitamin C performs another bit of “magic” as well; it raises the “good” cholesterol called HDL, High-Density Lipoprotein, an average of seven percent. HDL cholesterol is responsible for cleaning up the bad cholesterol in the blood, referred to as LDL, Low-Density Lipoprotein, and sending it back to the liver to be broken down. It can even lower blood pressure to a certain extent.

Last but not least, vitamin C helps prevent oxidation damage of the LDL cholesterol. Why is this important? Most researchers now believe that the process of heart disease is started by LDL cholesterol becoming oxidized, which makes it stick to the walls of the arteries. This is the beginning of arterial plaques, which leads to clogged arteries and heart disease. Vitamin C helps prevent the first step in heart disease, it is an inexpensive and very safe supplement, and is obviously needed by the body for many different things. One thing to keep in mind about vitamin C is that it is acidic, and some people may not like the extra acidity in their stomach after taking it. They can try buffered forms instead, such as ester-C and calcium ascorbate.

Readers can learn more about the benefits of vitamin C on regulating high cholesterol levels at Dr. Jensen’s heath tips web site at www.individualizednutrition.com/


2009-10-05 21:22:31 - Dr. Richard Jensen, a holistic nutritionist, has conducted extensive research on vitamin C and concluded that controlling high levels of cholesterol is among its many positive effects on the body.



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Health tip of the day: Benefits of Oregano

Oregano is an aromatic herb that belongs to the mint family, it can grow to about two feet in height. It is native to the Mediterranean region but is cultivated worldwide. The leaves as well as the volatile oil of oregano are used medicinally, but must be carefully distinguished as they are quite different. There is a common oregano that is use for cooking and the oregano that is use to make oil. Origanum Marjoram is the common oregano used for cooking. Origanum Vulgare is the wild oregano used for making oil.Oil of Oregano is a highly potent purifier that provides many benefits for human health. The two important compounds that are responsible for the many health benefits of oregano are carvacrol and thymol. Studies have shown that both of these compounds can inhibit the growth of bacteria, virus and fungi which is the main causes of many illnesses in humans. Oregano oil is marketed in either liquid or capsules/ tablets forms.

Health Benefits of Oregano Oil:

- It strong antiviral and antibacterial properties can help destroy organisms that contribute to skin infections.

- It also has antiparisitic properties which is helpful in digestive problems

- It can strengthen the immune system

- It helps increase the joint and muscles flexibility

- Improves respiratory health.

- Oil of Oregano when applied topically can help treat skin infections, itchy skin and irritated gums, (but make sure it has been diluted because oregano oil is concentrated and can cause burning sensation to tongue or skin).

- The high content of thymol and carvacrol in oregano can help calm upset stomachs and aid digestion. Mix 2 to 3 drops of oil to a glass of juice, milk or water for a quick remedy for mild indigestion.

- Oil of Oregano can help in the treatment of sinus or lung congestion. Just mix 2 or 3 drops of oil with juice, and drink this daily, you can notice the improvement within 3-5days.

- Oregano has antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that the anti-oxidant properties of oregano may even exceed that of apples and blueberries. Antioxidant vitamins are thought to play a vital role in the prevention of many forms of cancer, as well as perhaps slowing down the aging process.

- Oregano is rich in fibre

- Fresh oregano like other leafy vegetables is loaded with vitamins and nutrients. It is a good source of iron and manganese as well as calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin A. It also has omega-3 fatty acids.

- Oregano is good in maintaining the respiratory health

- Oregano oil, also acts as a stimulant, carminative, and it helps to increase perspiration when a person has fever.

- Oregano can help increase menstrual flow.

- When given in the form of a warm infusion, oregano relieves muscle spasms and cramps, colic, or spasmodic pains in the abdomen.

- The dried leaves can also be applied in bags as a warm application to painful arthritic swellings and other conditions, including rheumatism.

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Lemon Limes

Lemons and limes contain unique flavonoid compounds that have antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. While these flavonoids have been shown to stop cell division in many cancer cell lines, they are perhaps most interesting for their antibiotic effects. The inclusion of lime juice during the main meal of the day was determined to have been protective against the contraction of cholera.

Lemons and limes are an excellent source of vitamin C, one of the most important antioxidants in nature. Vitamin C has been shown to be helpful for reducing some of the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Since free radicals can damage blood vessels and can change cholesterol to make it more likely to build up in artery walls, vitamin C can be helpful for preventing the development and progression of atherosclerosis and diabetic heart disease.

Vitamin C is also vital to the function of a strong immune system. The immune system's main goal is to protect you from illness, so a little extra vitamin C may be useful in conditions like colds, flu's, and recurrent ear infections. Owing to the multitude of vitamin C's health benefits, it is not surprising that research has shown that consumption of vegetables and fruits high in this nutrient is associated with a reduced risk of death from all causes including heart disease, stroke and cancer.

Compounds in citrus fruits called limonoids have been shown to help fight cancers of the mouth, skin, lung, breast, stomach and colon.



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Levels of Vitamin C higher in Fruit Juices than Specified on Labels

A team of pharmacists from the University of Santiago de Compostela (USC) has established that the levels of vitamin C in many fruit juices and soft drinks are far higher than those indicated on their labels by the manufacturers. This finding has been possible owing to a new technique developed by the researchers to determine the content of vitamin C in these kinds of drinks.

Ascorbic acid or vitamin C is a natural antioxidant in fruits and vegetables, but the European Commission permits its use as an additive in juices, jams, dairy products and other foods. The involvement of this substance in the immune response and other biochemical processes such as the formation of collagen and the absorption of iron is well-known. However, high levels of ascorbic acid can cause diarrhoea and gastrointestinal problems, as a result of which scientists are attempting to determine the content of vitamin C in foods with greater and greater accuracy.

Now, a group of researchers from the Faculty of Pharmacy of the USC has developed a new chromatographic technique (these are used to separate and identify chemical elements) aimed at accurately measuring the ascorbic acid in fruit juices and soft drinks. By applying this method, they have found that the amounts of vitamin C stipulated on the labels of many drinks are not real. In a sample of 17 fruit juices, soft drinks and isotonic drinks, only two correspond to what is indicated on the bottle.

Ana Rodríguez Bernaldo de Quirós is a member of the team which has developed the new technique, whose details have recently been published in the Food Chemistry magazine. "The other drinks contain much higher levels than those specified by the manufacturer because, as has already been indicated in a previous study, the label probably only shows the amount of added ascorbic acid, without taking into account the fruit's natural vitamin C content", she explained to SINC.

Bernaldo de Quirós highlights the greater resolution and sensitivity of the method, by means of which it is possible to detect up to 0.01 milligrams of vitamin C per litre, "thanks to the use of new column chromatography, based on spherical particles of ultra pure silica 3 microns in size".

"Another advantage of the method is its simplicity and speed, as the total time taken to carry out the analyses is no more than six minutes", the researcher remarked.

With the new technique, the valuation of the ascorbic acid in the drinks has revealed some curious data. Of the 17 samples analyzed, the one with the highest vitamin C content was an apple juice (840 mg/l), more than the orange juices (352-739 mg/l). The results for the pineapple and grape juices were 702 mg/l and between 30.2 and 261 mg/l for the soft drinks (orange, lemon and apple).

The researchers also evaluated how the vitamin C content of the orange juices and tea drinks varies while they are on the shelves in the temperature conditions specified by the manufacturer. After six days, the former barely lose 8% of their ascorbic acid while, in the tea drinks, this substance falls by 54% at 4ºC and practically disappears at room temperature.



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