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Cranberry – Medicinal Uses, Interactions, Side Effects, Dosage

July 29th, 2010 by admin No comments »

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Cranberry

The cranberry plant, Vaccinium macrocarpon, is native to North America. Other related plants in the Vaccinium genus Include blueberry and bilberry. The ripe fruit, which is extremely sour, is used both as food and as an herbal medicine.

Uses and Benefits:

Cranberry juice has a long tradition in American folklore of helping to treat or prevent urinary tract infections (UTls). Scientific studies have attempted to validate the empiric use of cranberry as a urologic antimicrobial agent and as a potential medicinal herb to help prevent UTls in susceptible individuals.

Pharmacology:

Cranberry juice was originally thought to inhibit urinary bacteria by acidifying the urine or by being excreted as tlippuric acid, an antibacterial chemical. More recent investigations have failed to validate these mechanisms. Instead, it is now known that specific proanthocyanidins, condensed tannins from the cranberry fruit (also found in blueberries), can inhibit the adherence of uropathogenic E. coli and other bacteria to epithelial cells in vitro and in vivo.A similar constituent has been found to inhibit the coadhesion of dental plaque bacteria. Cranberry juice has recently been found to have some in vitro bactericidal activity as well.

Clinical Trials:

Initial claims that cranberry juice was effective in treating or preventing UTls were based on case reports or small uncontrolled studies. Only three double-blind, placebo­controlled trials have adequately investigated cranberry’s clinical effects; two of these trials found clinical benefits. All three studies were conducted in the U.S., but the two positive studies have methodologic weaknesses (e.g., unstated or quasi-randomization procedures, high drop-out rates, no intention-to-treat analysis) that reduce the reliability of the results. 8 Cranberry has not been studied for the treatment of acute symptomatic UTls.

In one randomized controlled trial (RCT), investigators gave 300 ml/day of cranberry juice cocktail or a placebo beverage to 192 elderly female nursing home residents over a 6-month period. ‘ ° Pyuria with bacteriuria was significantly reduced in the cranberry group (15%) as compared to the placebo group (28.1 %) (P = 0.004). Antibiotics for UTls were prescribed eight times in the cranberry group by subjects’ own physicians, and 16 times in the placebo group. Criticisms of this study included im­portant differences in baseline characteristics of the treatment and placebo groups, and a 20% drop-out rate.

In a small RCT using a 6-month crossover-design, investiga­tors gave a daily cranberry extract capsule or placebo to sexually active women (median age 37) with recurrent UTls; only 10 subjects could be evaluated. incidents of UTls, 6 occurred while taking the cranberry product, and occurred while taking placebo, a statistically significant difference (P < 0.005).

Lastly, no benefits were found in a 6-month crossover study of 15 high-risk children with neurogenic bladder requiring clean in­termittent catheterization q.i.d. Subjects drank ounces daily of a cranberry concentrate juice (equivalent to 300 ml of cranberry cocktail) or a placebo, and weekly catheterized urine specimens were obtained at home visits. Cranberry juice, compared to placebo, failed to reduce the frequency of bacteriuria (75% in each group), isolation of E. coli (43% vs. 48%, respectively), or sympto­matic UTls (three in each group). No reduction in bacteriuria was found, but the power to detect a difference in the number of clini­cal UTls was small due to the low number of UTls in the children.

Adverse Effects:

There are no documented adverse effects with cranberry products.

Side Effects and Interactions:

There are no recognized drug interactions.

Cautions:

Cranberry juice contains moderately high levels of oxalate, which may increase the risk of kidney stones in susceptible individuals. One man with a distant history of calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis developed recurrent stones following self-administration of cranberry extract tablets for 6 months. A pilot study of an extract taken daily for 1 week in five healthy subjects confirmed an increase in urinary oxalate levels. However, substances known to both induce (e.g., sodium) and inhibit (e.g., magnesium, potassium) stone formation were also increased; the overall effect is still not clear. The large amounts of sugar in many beverage products may be relatively contraindicated for patients with diabetes. Individuals should not rely on cranberry preparations to cure an established, symptomatic UTI, and should not dday in obtaining necessary medical treatment.

Preparations & Doses:

Pure cranberry juice is very acidic ,and sour; the most commonly marketed drink, cranberry juice cocktail, is a mixture of cranberry juice (at least 25% by volume), sweeteners, and vitamin C.Preparations and doses used in the above clinical trials included 300 ml/day (10 oz) of a standard cranberry juice cocktail beverage or 2 oz of concentrate (both :,supplied by Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc.) in single or divided doses. A daily dietary supplement capsule containing 400 mg of cranberry extract (Solaray, Inc.) was also used in one trial. There are many other cranberry foods and supplements on the market that would be expected to have similar active constituents, but the optimal preparation and dose is unknown.

Summary Evaluation:

Cranberry’s anti-infective activity in the urinary tract is well docucmented. Primarily, it inhibits the adherence of bacteria to urinary pithelial cells. Limited controlled trials suggest that cranberry products may help prevent UTls in susceptible individuals; how­(~ver, the available evidence is conflicting, and the studies all have methodologic flaws. Because cranberry is a safe and well-toler­died herbal remedy, it is not unreasonable for individuals with re­current UTls to try cranberry products for chronic preventive therapy. However, the potential beneficial effects, if clinically significant, are likely to be small.

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Nutritional benefits of cranberries – Part 10

July 28th, 2010 by admin No comments »
2272627784 7968af0570 m Nutritional benefits of cranberries   Part 10

Cranberries are a very versatile fruit. The nutritional benefits of cranberries vary from urinary tracts to teeth and gums. Being able to drink cranberry juice, cook with cranberries, or even bake with them, it won’t be hard to incorporate this powerful fruit into your diet to enjoy it’s benefits.

Cranberries help keep your teeth strong by eliminating oral bacteria from attaching to the teeth and gum surfaces. This also helps delay the decaying process and fight against gum disease. The natural anti-oxidants in cranberries also help fight ulcers. It protects your stomach walls so that bacteria cannot attach itself. People suffering from ulcers and H-Pylori enjoy the healing benefits found in this fruit. The anti-oxidants that fight bacteria, help keep the urinary tract from being infected. Both men and women can get urinary tract infections. By consuming one serving of cranberries a day you can decrease your risks.

The heart benefits from us eating cranberries by helping our bodies fight against disease. They inhibit oxidation of low-density cholesterol, which blocks our arteries. This keeps the blood flowing and the heart strong. Cranberries also help the blood to clot and are high in calcium which protect our bones.

New research milestones that have been made concerning the benefits of cranberries is it’s “anti-adhesion” effect on bacteria. With bacteria not being able to adhere itself in our bodies, we will be sick less with common colds, stomach ulcers, urinary tract infections and mouth diseases. With 60 million Americans suffering from some form of heart disease making cranberries a household item would be beneficial to the entire family.

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What is green tea extract?

July 28th, 2010 by admin No comments »
3365320727 42734599a0 m What is green tea extract?

Green tea extract is a concentrated form of green tea, a beverage that is increasingly recognized for its numerous health benefits. Some like it, and some don’t; but one thing cannot be denied, and that is the historic and cultural significance of the drink.

Origins of Green Tea

Approximately 5,000 years ago, the Chinese began to use green tea as a medicinal beverage to promote mind and body health. While the pop health craze of today lauds the many health benefits of green tea, the beverage has been an integral part of Chinese culture for thousands of years.

The earliest recorded reference to the use of green tea as a health aid goes back to 2737 B.C. But it wasn’t until the reign of the Ming dynasty in 1368 A.D. (after the fall of the Mongolian empire) that tea drinking spread from the elite to the populace. It was at that point that interesting stories of the health benefits of green tea emerged. For example, Chinese sailors would drink green tea for the vitamin C which prevented scurvy, a disease which killed numerous European sailors more than 100 years later.

The Uniqueness of Green Tea

Green tea is unique among hot beverages. While other teas including black and oolong are oxidized during processing, green tea is made from fresh, non-oxidized tea leaves. This gives green tea a fresh, unique taste and aroma in addition to its telltale color.

But perhaps the most intriguing aspect of green tea is the many health benefits associated with a daily dose of green tea extract in either liquid or pill form. Here’s a look at the Top 5 reasons why green tea extract may be beneficial to your health:

5) Green Tea and Neurological Disorders. Some health experts believe green tea has the ability to actually stop some neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Thus, it promotes cognition and memory as well.

4) Green Tea and Caffeine Intake. Green tea contains about one-third less caffeine than coffee, and thus is suitable for people who must restrict their caffeine intake.

3) Green Tea and Cancer. Some health experts believe the antioxidant properties of green tea can help battle against or even prevent certain types of cancer. Green tea accomplishes this by destroying free radicals that occur during oxidization.

2) Green Tea and Heart Health. Like the Mediterranean staple, olive oil, green tea is recognized for reducing levels of harmful LDL cholesterol and raising beneficial HDL cholesterol. Also, green tea contains heart-healthy polyphenols.

1) Green Tea and Weight Loss. Some health experts laud green tea as a weight loss product. The popular health guru, Dr. Nicholas Perricone, claimed that people can lose 10 pounds in six weeks by drinking green tea rather than their daily latte. Is Perricone correct? Historically speaking, the production of oolong and black teas began in southern China circa 1650 A.D. in reaction to hungry laborers who recognized that green tea depleted the body fat reserves badly needed for survival during that time of social upheaval. Thus, while still officially unproven, green tea with its fat-burning catechins may indeed aid weight loss. Other research has shown that drinking five cups of green tea per day burns up to 80 calories.

Though the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has concluded that there is no credible evidence to support the health claims associated with green tea extract, many scientists and health experts continue to tout its growing list of benefits.

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The health benefits of cranberry juice – Part 1

July 26th, 2010 by admin No comments »
Yogurt Covered Cranberries

Most have heard that cranberry juice is a good way to get rid of bladder infections. But that is really just one small aspect of the health benefits of cranberry juice. Cranberry juice isn’t always easy to find as 100% cranberry juice, and when you try it for the first time it may astonish you. Cranberry juice is bitter or tart when you try it by itself. However, many of the cocktails that are very enjoyable, have enough cranberry juice to provide the health benefits of the cranberry juice. You will want to buy a cocktail that is 100% juice. This is usually a mix of grape juice, apple juice, and cranberry juice. Try to find one that has cranberry juice listed as the first or second ingredient. Avoid cocktails that aren’t 100% juice. While they are often tasty they have very little health benefits and are full of artificial sweeteners and sugars.

Urinary Track Health.

Cranberry juice isn’t just good for bladder infections, it is great for urinary track health in general. It helps to keep the whole track including the bladder and kidneys free of bacteria. The chemicals in the juice help to protect the cells from bacteria, effectively letting the bacteria rinse into the urine and stay there as it leaves the body. This can strengthen your urinary track and protect it from infection.

Respiratory Health.

Some research has shown that cranberry juice also helps keep the respiratory system free of bacteria. This prevents respiratory infections and ear infections. This isn’t a cure all, but it does help.

Heart Health.

Cranberry juice has shown to help decrease bad cholesterol, and raise good cholesterol. This is good news for those with cholesterol issues. It has also been shown that it is great for reducing the risk of heart disease and it has anti-clotting effects.

Dental Hygiene.

Cranberry juice has been shown to reduce the risk of gingivitis, and reduce the build up of plaque. It is effective at killing oral bacteria due to the chemical properties of the cranberry. However, too much can lead to tooth decay because of all the sugars. Finding a balance is very important for dental health.

Emulsifies Fat.

Some research has shown that it can help to emulsify fat. This helps those who are eating a balanced diet, consuming a moderate amount of cranberry juice, and participating in an exercise plan.

Nutritious.

In addition to having several health benefits, cranberry juice is nutritious. It offers several vitamins and minerals. As part of a balanced diet it can add a great deal of health benefits to the lives of many.

It is important that you consult your doctor about consuming cranberry juice daily if you are on prescription medications. Some have negative reactions with lots of cranberry. Additionally, you should limit your juice consumption and always drink lots of water. You should consume 4-8 ounces of cranberry juice every day or every other day to receive cranberry juice’s health benefits.

The benefits of green tea – Part 1

July 23rd, 2010 by admin No comments »
3189541797 affa443eca m The benefits of green tea   Part 1

Green Tea Benefits

Green tea has been the preferred beverage in many Asian countries for generations. Green tea has many therapeutic benefits as well as being part of many spiritual, ritual, and ceremonial activities in some Asian cultures. The calming tranquility attained from relaxing, and enjoying a warm cup of green tea can be the most beneficial form of psychological and physiological therapy for many people. Green tea is a stimulant, antioxidant, and body healer. Because the polyphenols in green tea are powerful antioxidants, science researchers have discovered that its epigallocatechin gollate (EGCG) polyphenols are 200 times more potent than the celebrated vitamin-E antioxidant when neutralizing free radicals. Additionally, green tea increases energy, which occasionally causes weight-loss in some people. Therefore, science researchers have focused on numerous health benefits experienced by many green tea drinkers.

First, green tea can be an effective treatment for Asthma suffers. Theophylline, a chemical extract from green tea leaves, relaxes the smooth muscles supporting the bronchial tubes, which decreases the severity of asthma suffers. Thus, asthmatic green tea drinkers are likely receiving the theophylline doses necessary enough to affect their asthma.

Second, green tea can be a useful medicine for people with atherosclerosis and high cholesterol. By using a mechanism employed in modern drugs classified as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, green tea lowers blood high blood pressure and cholesterol without the dangerous side effects. Although science researchers describes this effect as mild, clinical studies reveal that green tea slows the oxidation and development of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), which is the bad cholesterol that can cause the development of atherosclerotic plaques.

Third, green tea may prevent the development of certain cancers in many people. According to a number of animal studies, the polyphenols in green tea may offer significant protection against cancers of the small intestine, lung, stomach, colon, and pancreas. By blocking the formation of organic cancer-causing compounds, suppressing the activation of carinogens, and detoxifying cancer-causing agents, green tea may prevent the development of cancer in people with a genetic predisposition for cancer. Additionally, green tea anti-cancer causing compounds offers protection from the dangerous effects of continued gamma radiation exposure, which has caused the development of various cancers in many people.

And fourth, green tea is an effective treatment for people suffering with diabetes. Green tea extracts suppress the formation of “sticky” blood proteins, which may cause leakage from thickening blood vessels. By inhibiting the enzymes in the mouth and intestines that break down carbohydrates into simple sugars, green tea compounds remove sugar out of the bloodstream.

For these reasons and more, within the past few years green tea has been subjected to many scientific and medical studies to determine the extent of its long- alleged health benefits, with some evidence indicating that regular green tea drinkers may lower their chances of developing certain types of cancer and other diseases. Thus far, the only negative side effect reported from drinking green tea is insomnia because of the caffeine in it. However, green tea contains significantly less caffeine than coffee. Therefore, the weight of scientific evidence appears to suggest that green tea may offer considerable health benefits to many of its tea drinkers.

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The health benefits of cranberry juice – Part 6

July 23rd, 2010 by admin No comments »
1287188648 28ebc7d130 m The health benefits of cranberry juice   Part 6

The full range of health benefits associated with cranberries and cranberry juice is not yet known. Researchers are continuing to study the properties of its antioxidative phytochemicals, and their potential as cancer-fighting agents and their ability to boost immunity.Cranberries themselves, although small in size, can pack a wallop of a punch when it comes to its health benefits. A glass or two of cranberry juice on a daily basis is a good way to prevent bladder infections.

Cranberry juice is one of the best home remedies for treating a urinary tract infection (cystitis), but its benefit goes well beyond that arena. The acidity of cranberry juice is helpful to the kidneys and bladder because it makes those regions inhospitable to any bacteria that would like to take hold and grow there. Drinking cranberry juice will wash certain bacteria right out of the body. Additionally, a regular regimen of cranberry juice can be useful in preventing the formation of kidney stones.

Cranberry juice contains three powerful phytochemicals (plant nutrients) called bioflavinoids, anthocyanins, and catechins. Bioflavinoids are antioxidants that have the power to inhibit the body’s production hormones that cause cancer. Anthocyanin is good for eye health. It improves the body’s ability to detect the wavelengths that cause purple colors. This is important because it promotes better night vision. Anthocyanin is another type of antioxidant. Catechins, which are also known as tannins, are antioxidants. They also prevent oral bacteria from causing plaque, which may lead to gingivitis. The astringent properties of the tannins found in cranberry juice make it a beneficial coagulant. This is especially helpful for people who are prone to thrombosis or other cardiovascular disease.

Commercially available cranberry juice is mixed with far too much sweetener to really provide the truest benefit. Using a food processor or home juicer to make your own cranberry juice will give you the best chance at reaping its health benefits. To keep it from being too bitter, just dilute it with apple juice. Making your own cranberry juice instead of drinking highly sugared varieties can prevent tooth decay. The acidity of the berry stimulates the mouth to salivate, which helps prevent the formation of plaque.

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How Can Green Tea Benefit My Family?

July 22nd, 2010 by admin No comments »
11745732 8139ee0dfb m How Can Green Tea Benefit My Family?

No doubt you’ve heard of Green Tea and the health benefits you can experience from drinking it.

Are you giving your family this powerful antioxidant daily?

Here is a refresher on some of the benefits you can experience with Green Tea.

Historically, Green Tea has been one of the world’s most popular beverages. The Chinese have been drinking it for thousands of years. It is now the second most popular beverage in the world, after water!

Green tea is made from the Camellia Sinensis plant…as is black tea. The difference is that Green Tea is unfermented, which means that the powerful antioxidant properties are fully intact.

The power of Green Tea lies in its catechin polyphenols, particularly something called epigallocatechin gallate (say that 5 times fast!). EGCG is a powerful anti-oxidant: not only does it inhibit the growth of tumors, it kills cancer cells without harming healthy tissue.

Green Tea has been reported to:

*Assist in weight loss.

According to a a study conducted at the University of Geneva in Switzerland, Green Tea seems to help the body burn more calories.

Green Tea also slows down the release of carbohydrate in the body, preventing sharp rises in blood sugar.

I know a couple who lost ten pounds each in the first few weeks after drinking Green Tea every day, with no other changes in their diet.

*Boosts the immune system.

Green Tea is one of the most potent antioxidants available. It also contains some vitamins and minerals. Green Tea lowers the risk of cancer.

In 1994 the Journal of the National Cancer Institute published the results of an epidemiological study indicating that drinking Green Tea reduced the risk of esophageal cancer in Chinese men and women by nearly sixty percent. University of Purdue researchers recently concluded that a compound in Green Tea inhibits the growth of cancer cells.

A study in September 1997 by the University of Kansas reported that Green Tea has the highest amount of any known antioxidant. EGCG (that tongue twisting antioxidant found in Green Tea) is 100 times more effective than Vitamin C, and twice as powerful as resveratrol (the antioxidant in red wine).

*Lowers cholesterol

University of California scientists discovered that the caffeine in coffee is bound with coffee bean oils, which raise cholesterol levels.

In contrast, research indicates that drinking Green Tea lowers total cholesterol levels, as well as improving the ratio of good (HDL) cholesterol to bad (LDL) cholesterol.

Green Tea Benefits Moms

*Helps with morning sickness

There are no studies that confirm this, this is a personal observation.

I had severe, prolonged morning sickness with all 3 of my pregnancies.

With my third child, I discovered Green Tea and noticed that when I drank it, not only did it ease the nausea, but it seemed to have a mildly stimulating effect on my appetite and it helped me keep the food that I ate down. My guess is that the astringent effect of the polyphenols caused this.

Historically Green Tea has been used as a digestive aid. That can certainly be helpful to a pregnant woman.

*Natural energy boost

Again, I could find no studies that proved this, but I drink Green Tea primarily for the natural energy boost it gives me, without any unpleasant side effects. I used to drink a coffee in the afternoon, get shaky and hyper, only to crash later on.

Green Tea doesn’t cause those unpleasant side effects, and it also gives me the same feeling of “clearing the cobwebs” from my brain.

What Mom doesn’t need this?

*Lowers the risk of blood clots

Green tea has been shown to be effective in preventing abnormal clotting of blood, which is especially important during pregnancy.

Green tea is non-toxic and safe. It doesn’t cause birth defects and has no adverse affect on pregnancy or breastfeeding.

In fact, a study conducted at Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program of Northern California, researchers found that women who drank more than one half cup of green tea every day doubled their odds of conceiving.

No significant association was found for other beverages, researchers concluded that some chemical component of tea might have been responsible for the increase in fertility.

Green Tea Benefits Kids!

*Helps prevent tooth decay

Green Tea can kill the bacteria that causes plaque. Does your child’s juice do that?

Having a hard time getting your kid to eat his veggies?

A cup of Green Tea has more antioxidant ability than a cup of broccoli or spinach!

*Helps prevent illness

Previous tests prove Green Tea can neutralize germs, including some that cause diarrhea, pneumonia, cystitis and skin infections.

New research by Milton Schiffenbauer of Pace University finds that Green Tea deactivates viruses.

Recent research at Harvard indicated that tea chemicals stimulated T-cells that bolster immunity against bacteria and viruses.

Would fewer illnesses make life more pleasant in your home?

*Ok, so why aren’t you drinking Green Tea already?

If you’re like me, it’s because the Green Tea you’ve tried tastes terrible. I’ve tried many brands that reminded me of diaper rash ointment…no I’m not kidding!

My favorite brand of Green Tea is manufactured by Sunrider International. (For more information visit http://www.diana2.com.) My kids and picky husband even love it.

Here’s to your health!

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Sun Chlorella

July 22nd, 2010 by admin No comments »

Sun Chlorella
Chlorella, Chlorella Pyrenoidosa

Chlorella (Chlorella pyrenoidosa) is a natural whole food derived from a fresh water-grown plant, with amazing health-enhancing benefits. It is a genus of single-celled green algae, belonging to the phylum Chlorophyta. Chlorella”s name comes from “chlor” which means green in Greek, and “ella” which means a small thing in Latin.
Sun Chlorella is a true survivor. A recent study shows that Chlorella has been on earth since at least 540 million years ago, and is the first known form of eukaryotic organism (true nucleus plant). Chlorella contains the highest percentage of natural chlorophyll and provides vital nutrients such as potassium, all of the B-vitamins, magnesium, zinc and iron, 18 vital amino acids, and beta carotene.
Chlorella is also called a most powerful weapons against cancer, its a unicellular, green algae. This tiny algae packs a powerful punch. Chlorella is truly one of nature’s great gifts, providing essential vitamins and nutrients as well as promoting the healthy function of nearly all the body’s systems.

Liver Health:
Some Asian and other studies have shown that Sun Chlorella stimulates a protective effect on the liver, as shown by its resistance to damage by toxins such as ethionine. In one German study, the liver was protected from the kind of damage caused by malnutrition. Chlorella lowers blood cholesterol and triglycerides, the levels of which are associated with liver metabolism as well as fat intake. We can see how the protective and cleansing effects of chlorella on the liver support the natural defenses of the body.

Clean Bloodstream:
A clean bloodstream, with an abundance of red blood cells to carry oxygen, is necessary to a strong natural defense system. Chlorella”s cleansing action on the bowel and other elimination channels, as well as its protection of the liver, helps keep the blood clean.

Blood Sugar Balancing:
Experiments have shown that chlorella tends to normalize blood sugar in cases of hypoglycemia while numerous personal testimonies show that it also helps take care of diabetes. In hypoglycemia, blood sugar is too low, while in diabetes, blood sugar is too high. Proper levels of blood sugar are necessary for normal brain function, heart function and energy metabolism, all of which are crucial in sustaining good health and preventing disease. The liver and pancreas are involved in the regulation of blood sugar, particularly the Islands of Langerhans in the pancreas. So, we find that Chlorella supports and balances pancreatic functions as well as the other organs we have discussed.

Blood Pressure:
For many years now, Sun Chlorella has been known to normalize blood pressure in many documented cases, High blood pressure is one of the major risk factors in heart attack and stroke, which account for more fatalities in the US than any other disease.

A renowned herbalist Michael Tierra L.Ac, O.M.D said in their book:
I recommend Chlorella to all cancer patients regardless of any other green drink they might use. Chlorella is a small, one-celled algae containing a nucleus and a large amount of chlorophyll. Its protein content is approximately 58% with the balance made up of carbohydrates, all the B Vitamins, Vitamin C and E, amino acids and valuable trace minerals. It has more B12 than liver and a substantial amount of beta-carotene. Because it has a strong cell wall, it requires processing in order to make all of its nutrients available. It is virtually a complete food in itself. It acts as both a powerful nutrient and a detoxifying food.
Treating Cancer With Herbs, page 361.

For more health articles kindly visit our website:
http://www.getnutri.com/articles

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5 reasons to drink green tea

July 19th, 2010 by admin No comments »
Green Tea benefits

Throughout history, tea derived from leaves of the Camellia Sinensis plant, has been considered both a curative and a preventative beverage. The types of teas derived from the Camellia Sinensis plant include the black, oolong, white and green varieties of tea. Green Tea is especially healthy as it is less fermented than black or oolong teas. There are many reasons to drink green tea. Five reasons to consider are:

1) Fights against cancer – Lowers toxicity of certain carcinogens, inhibits tumors

2) Helps manage diabetes – Keeps blood sugars at an acceptable level

3) Keeps cardiovascular system healthy – lowers cholesterol, controls high blood pressure, increases blood flow to the heart

4) Aids in weight loss – Helps the body burn more calories, filling effect

5) Contributes to oral health – Inhibits bacterial plaque, reduces halitosis by inhibiting bacteria

One of the main reasons green tea is considered to have so many health benefits is the high amount of antioxidants which it contains. Green tea contains high amounts of catechins. Catechins are highly effective antioxidants. The body uses antioxidants to fight the negative effects of free radicals. Free radicals are organic molecules known to contribute to aging and potentially many diseases. It is important to maintain a maximum amount of antioxidants in your body at all times. One of the best ways of increasing the antioxidant levels in your body is green tea! The antioxidant levels of green tea are one hundred times more effective than Vitamin C and twenty-five times more effective than Vitamin E for protecting our immune system.

As the health benefits of green tea have become more widely known, it has gained popularity and become available in variety of products. Currently consumers can find green tea ice-cream, gum, bottled drinks etc. While these products all offer some green tea benefits, the best way to experience green tea is to drink 2-3 (6oz) cups of freshly brewed tea daily. The processing of the other products potentially diminishes the effects of the antioxidants.

Though there appear to be few side effects of green tea consumption, green tea does contain caffeine. Caffeine has been known to interact with certain drugs and is not recommended during pregnancy. Please consult your doctor prior to starting a regular regime of green tea consumption.

In 1211 A.D., a Japanese monk named Eisai wrote: “Tea has the extraordinary power to prolong life. Anywhere a person cultivates tea, long life will follow.” Listen to these words of wisdom. Enjoy! Drink up! Live long!

References: www.aimforherbs.com www.green-tea-expert.com www.emaxhealth.com

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Superfoods to include in your diet

July 18th, 2010 by admin No comments »

Superfoods are extremely powerful nutrient-filled foods that have virtually no calories, bad fats or disagreeable substances. Superfoods are helpful in preventing sickness, strengthening the body’s organs, feeding the cells and staying fit and healthy.

Green super foods have the highest concentration of easily digestible nutrients, minerals and vitamins to heal and protect your body. They also contain a variety of other healthy substances such as fat burning compounds, essential fatty acids and healthy bacteria. All of these work together to help your digestive system function more efficiently and to prevent and combat disease and illness. The most effective green super foods are Alfalfa grass, Green barley grass, Wheatgrass, Wild blue-green algae, Spirulina and Chlorella.

Alfalfa grass is a rejuvenating powerhouse. It contains all known vitamins and minerals as well as helpful digestive enzymes and a myriad of other healthy substances. It most commonly used in detoxifying the liver, aiding weight loss and assisting in digestion. It can also be used as a general tonic to give an overall boost to the immune system. Alfalfa grass can be purchased in a health food store. It comes in powder form as well as tablets and capsules for easy use.

Green barley grass is rich in almost every nutrient needed by the human body with the exception of vitamin D. It is very similar to many deep green leafy vegetables yet it contains many more times the amount of vitamins, mineral and proteins. It has as much protein as meat, eleven times the calcium of milk, seven times more vitamin C than orange juice and five times the iron of spinach. The healthy advantages of barley grass are almost limitless. It helps protect against pollutants, strengthens body tissues and organs, boosts energy and immune response, as well as improving circulation and lowering cholesterol. You can buy it in dehydrated form from a health food store, keeping in mind that a 5g teaspoon is equivalent to 100g of vegetables like raw spinach or broccoli.

Wheatgrass is very similar in properties to barley grass. However, wheatgrass is virtually indigestible so it needs to be juiced for maximum health benefits. It is also available in capsules, tablets and powder form. It is an excellent source of iron, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc. Among it’s many exceptional health benefits it is best known for aiding in weight loss due to its cleansing effect on the body.

Wild blue-green algae is a

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