CHINESE APPLE

"Pomegranate"

Pomegranate
"Chinese Apple"

     Years ago this fruit was known as the Chinese Apple.  I have remembered when my parents bought (still does) bags of the fruit for us to eat as a healthy snack during the summertime as a kid.  The fruit was so popular back in the late 70s and 80s. The memory was so vivid that I recalled playing outside in front of our building in Brooklyn, picking out those tiny fleshy liquid seeds and eating them like sweet sour candy with the red juice dripping down my fingers, hands, and staining.  

Edible Seeds
inside of a pomegranate
"Life's Treasures"

     Fast forward to the 3rd millennium, who knew this particular powerful fruit would be very popular today in the forefront of the medical world.  As a child, I've known it as the Chinese Apple not pomegranate.  It makes me wonder when did the name change?  

     The big red round fruit with a weird stem on top remind you of a Christmas ornament.  You would have to split open the fruit to reveal the inside, which are numerous fluid filled sac seeds individually separated by inedible membranes.  The seeds are edible.  A health treasure for the human body.  The pomegranate helps cardiovascular system function preventing damage to arterial walls, improving blood circulation, maintaining healthy blood pressure levels, protects against cancer, and diabetes.

     According to the Medical College of Wisconsin, scientists says by sipping a half cup of pure 100% pomegranate juice daily, or eating 2/3 cup of pomegranate seeds could reduce your risk of colon cancer 33% or more.  Studies shows high consumption in fruit and vegetable is associated with lower cancer risk.  Diets rich in polyphenols from specific plant foods fends off cancer.

     The ellagic acid, a compound found in the pomegranate strengthens and protects the digestive tract lining so the toxins can't easily harm its cells.  Pomegranate is a rich source of antioxidants the body craves to have on a daily basis.  Besides being categorized as a  "superfood", the pomegranate has a significant symbolic meaning in the ancient world of mythology.  The ancient world symbolizes the fruit to represent fertility, abundance, life, love, rebirth, hope, prosperity, beauty, eternity, and marriage.  

     Well, it seems my parents was on to something years ago in giving us the give of life.  Would you consider in having this magnificent treasure fruit, Chinese Apple or Pomegranate, in the center of your table as a daily reminder that Mother Nature has given us the gift of life, literally?

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU'VE TAKEN YOUR PROBIOTICS?

"Getting Your Probiotics By Any Means Necessary"

The Good Bacteria

Different kinds of probiotics to add in your daily health diet

     Can you think of the last time you had fermented foods, organic yogurts, probiotic supplements, or probiotic beverages?  If you have to take a while to answer, then you are not getting what your body so righteously deserve.  Probiotic is known to be the "good bacteria" that consists of live active bacteria to help the gut (intestinal) flora.

     A healthy intestinal flora is vital for forming stools and maintaining your immune system.  The digestive tract is 70% of your immune system.  The importance in keeping a high level of live good bacteria is extremely crucial since the digestive tract is a big part of our immune system.  If the immune system is weaken, then your body will be under attack by certain diseases, such as, cancer, respiratory, autoimmune disorders, constant diarrhea, yeast infections, constipation, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, diabetes, obesity, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), risk in developing ADHD, learning disabilities, autism, and mouth yeast infections.

 Can gut bacteria cure or prevent certain diseases and moods?

     The role of probiotics plays in the functioning of the body has become more evident to the medical world.  Scientists has come to realize the link between the heart, brain, gastrointestinal tract, and mental (mood) state with gut bacteria.  The body needs a strong functioning intestinal tract so it can digest and absorb nutrients we consume on a daily basis.  The nutrients we receive from foods help feeds the whole body system, such as, nervous system, heart, and brain.  Scientists says the human body has a second brain known as "enteric nervous system (ENS)".  It is considered a different type of brain.  Therefore, meaning it consists of two thin layers of more than 100 million nerve cells lining the gastrointestinal tract from esophagus to the rectum.  ENS main role is controlling digestion, breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and expelling of waste.  It does not help with the thought processes, conscious thoughts, and decision making like our other brain that is protected by the skull.

Here is a video on "Gut bacteria and health" by Dr. Juliet Ansell...

https://www.sciencelearn.org.nz/videos/1092-gut-bacteria-and-health

     According to reports in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute colon cancer rates are on the rise among Generation X and Millennial.  They are facing four times the risk of colon and rectal cancer as to the baby boomers.

What are the signs my body has too much bad gut bacteria or gut flora imbalance?

• Chronic bad breath
• Chronic diarrhea
• Excess intestinal gas
• Constipation
• No intestinal gas
• Prostate issues
• Breast enlargement in men
• Candida infection
• Chronic anemia
• Chronic respiratory problems
• Dairy intolerance
• Vitamin B deficiencies
• Hormonal imbalance
• Chronic vaginal infections
• Chronic bladder infections
• PH balance of your stools
• Depression
• Bloating
• Heartburn/Acid reflux
• Constant colds
• Behavior issues

How can I restore and improve my gut flora?

Fermented foods provide excellent benefits.  Fermented foods are packed with probiotics or good bacteria. It is not a new type of food.  Fermented foods have been practiced for years in different cultures around the world.  For example, the Bulgarians are known for their high consumption of kefir, fermented milk, and yogurt.  Bulgaria is one of the countries with people who are 100 years and older.  The Asians are known to eat pickled fermentation of cabbage (kimchi), turnips, cucumbers, garlic, eggplants, and carrots. The Germans are known to eat sauerkraut.  Studies have shown eating fermented foods (probiotic rich foods) has a positive affect on overall health.

Refrigerated shelves of fermented foods in supermarkets

There are recipes and cooking classes that are available in learning how to make one of the popular forms of fermented foods, kimchi.

Traditional kimchi...

Vegans can enjoy this recipe demo...

No time in making homemade kimchi? OK, no problem.  Kimchi can be found at supermarkets and farmer's markets.  I suggest when buying store bought kimchi you read the labels!  Look at those ingredients on the label closely to make sure there are no chemical preservatives, artificial coloring or flavors, and most important how much sodium is in it.  If you are battling high blood pressure, then eat it in moderation.

Ingredients on a bottle of store bought kimchi

If you do not like kimchi, then try sauerkraut.

Store bought sauerkraut
*read the ingredient labels

If you just cannot hack the taste or smell of fermented foods, then reach for organic yogurts. There are many versions of yogurts sold at supermarkets that are dairy, soy, dairy free, and soy free. Companies are watching and listening to consumers buying habits and lifestyles.  Nowadays, everyone are trying to eat healthy.

dairy free yogurts

Yogurts are consumed with several strains of good bacteria.  Yogurts that have more than one strain of bacteria will give the body a better boost.

Ingredients on organic Greek yogurt
*you want to see live active multi cultures strains 

Plain yogurts are best.  Why?  You are in control of what you put in the yogurt.  The majority of the store bought yogurts have either high fructose corn syrup, high sugar grams, and artificial ingredients. The plain versions you can add your own fresh fruit, honey, maple syrup, nut butters, or whatever toppings you like.  The bonus to this method is your whole body system would get a healthy dose of fiber and natural ingredients you've added on your own.

Probiotic supplements are another way in getting the good bacteria in your system.  Vitamin, supermarkets, and pharmacy stores all have probiotic supplements on their shelves or located in the refrigerator area.  When purchasing the supplements make sure there are multi strains of bacteria, no artificial ingredients (colors), no preservatives, no corn, or no soy.  If you are lactose intolerant or vegan, then make sure the bottle states dairy free.  Always keep your probiotics in a cool place.

Eating prebiotic foods helps the gut bacteria to produce nutrients for your gastrointestinal system as well...

Organic dark leafy kale and swiss chard greens

The best prebiotic foods to eat:

• Dandelion Greens
• Leafy Greens (kale, swiss chard etc.)
• Jerusalem Artichoke
• Garlic
• Onions
• Leeks
• Asparagus
• Bananas
• Barley
• Apples
• Oats
• Konjac Root
• Cocoa (not processed)
• Burdock Root
• Flax seeds
• Yacon Root
• Jicama Root
• Seaweed

In conclusion, it is clearly shown how probiotics and a balance of prebiotics helps the whole body connect with one another to sustain a healthy system to thrive.  The body will clearly let out a symptom on letting you know something is not right.

WHAT HAVE YOU DONE LATELY?

"Healing The Body"

     We are just about halfway through the month of March.  So, what have you done lately? Keep in mind this is  COLON CANCER AWARENESS MONTH.  Please do something to help support the colon and the rest of the body. 

     Make sure you try your best in using organic produce to avoid the toxins of pesticides.  If you are using the skin on vegetables and fruits, then go organic.  Go organic on leafy greens as well.  If eating meats, then limit the intake and look for hormone clone free.  



It's good to compare shopping prices at varies places for organic produce

     A great way to start is doing a natural cleanse.

Dr. Oz 3 day detox cleanse shopping list & menu plan

Check it out here http://s.doctoroz.com/sites/default/files/dm_uploads/4_055_3DayDetox.pdf

     If you feel you can go longer than a three day cleanse, then I recommend Cathy Wong  "7 day detox cleanse."

 Check it out here http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/dietarytherapy/a/Detox_Diet_Plan.htm

 Supplements that can help the body (taken daily)

*As always make note of all natural remedies and supplements you are taking.  Let your doctor know what you are taking.

• Vitamin D3 (extremely important) *see posting
• Probiotic Acidophilus (non-dairy)
• CoQ10 coenzyme 100mg (no soy or corn, no artificial colors, or no preservatives)
• Antioxidants ( helps fight free radicals that damages DNA cells) - Zinc, Selenium, and Grape Seed Extract, Resveratrol
• 100% Wild Salmon Oils 1000mg - fights inflammation (no soy or corn, no artificial colors, or no preservatives)
• Black Currant Oil 500mg (fights inflammation)
• Flax seed oil

Drinking teas daily

Dried flowers, spices, & herbs to create your own tea

• Green tea (matcha, sencha)
• Turmeric, Ginger, and Cloves
• Holy Basil
• Burdock Root
• Dandelion Root
• Hibiscus
• Cinnamon (use Ceylon "True Cinnamon" for medical effect)
• Saffron

 

*You don't have to buy a lot of boxes of teas.  You can create your very own by utilizing either fresh or dried spices and herbs.  I like to have on hand a glass tea kettle pot to use when I make my homemade herb or spice teas.  Some spices, such as, turmeric, will stain.  A metal tea pot will leave behind residue.  So it's good to have at least two different tea kettle pots.






 Cook with fresh or dried spices and herbs in foods (no Lawry's Seasoned Salt)

* Tip: Always have available Turmeric (fresh or ground), Cloves, and fresh Ginger in your pantry or fridge. These are excellent spices to fight bacteria, pain, and gives circulation!

  Get at least 8 hours of sleep (your body creates the natural hormone melatonin)

Inhibits cancer growth cells and reduces inflammation

  Get in the know!  Read and learn! 

And last of all,

 Have a support system (family or friends) is the crucial key to the road of a healthy lifestyle.  If one person in the household is eating healthy and the other members of the family is not, then you will have a hard time.  It's imperative the whole family is on the same path as you. 



                                                                                                        Namaste




MARCH IS COLON CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

"Colorectal Cancer"

     March is colon cancer awareness month.  COLON CANCER is the SECOND LEADING cause of DEATH in the United States and is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women.  The risk in developing colon cancer is 1 in 20.  This is why "we" must "spread" awareness as best as possible to get the knowledge out to people.  Prevention and awareness is the key.

What is Colorectal Cancer?

Cancer that starts either in the colon (6 foot long muscular tube connecting small intestine to rectum) or rectum (8 inch chamber connects colon to anus) area.  It occurs when some of the cells in the lining of the rectum or colon becomes abnormal (polyps) and grow out of control spreading to the walls via blood vessels to nearby lymph nodes and other parts of the body, such as, the liver (main organ).  A tumor is formed because of the abnormal cells.

Symptoms

In the early stages it may be little or no symptoms (asymptomatic).  That is why it makes this cancer so dangerous.

• Blood or Mucus in the stools
• Tarry stools
• Changes in bowel movements - frequency, quality, and consistency of stools
• Anemia
• Unexplained weight loss
• Weakness
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Pains in abdomen
• Bloating in abdomen
• Feeling of fullness (even hours after eating)
• Vomiting
• A lump in the tummy or lump in back passage felt by doctor

Sometimes these above symptoms can indicate another problem.  A reason why you should seek medical help as soon as possible to get a proper diagnosis.  Do not wait more than a month without seeking help.

Facts about the colon
The colon performs important functions because it is the last part of the digestive system.

• Part of the large intestine.
• Colon has four sections - ascending, transverse, descending, and sigmoid colon.
• Located at the lower right side of the abdominal cavity.
• Ascending colon is 25 cm long.
• Sigmoid is an S shaped.
• Main function is to remove waste products of digestion or stool.
• Colon is the site where all bacteria is located "intestinal flora" (hanging out spot where good bacteria resides) *Imperative that you maintain high good bacteria than bad bacteria.

Whose at Risk?

• The older you are higher the risk. ( Beware younger people are starting to develop the disease)
• Diet high in - animal protein, saturated fats, low fiber, calories, alcohol consumption, and process preservative foods (sodium nitrates).
• Women who had breast, ovary, or uterus cancer.
• Family history of colorectal cancer.
• People with ulcerative colitis.
• Overweight/obese.
• Smoking. (Researchers found that smokers are severely at a higher risk)
• Physically inactive.
• Presence of polyps and left untreated.
• Crohn's disease.
• Irritable Bowel Disease (Researchers found patients with this disease are at a higher risk).
• People with Type 2 Diabetes.
• African Americans have the highest risk rates.

Screening Tests*Screening can detect "polyps" before they become cancerous and detect colon cancer during its early stages.

• Fecal occult blood test
• Stool DNA test
• Flexibly Sigmoidocopy
• Barium enema X-ray
• Colonoscopy (age 50+ should start being tested)
• CT colonography
• Ultrasound scan
• MRI

Prevention
This is our key to lowering the chances in developing this deadly disease.

*** Get tested!

Nutrition plays a major role in prevention.  Up your increase on the following:

• Vegetables, Vegetables, Vegetables (fresh produce and organic if possible)
• Consume good quality of fats - avocado, olive oil (pure), fish oils (low mercury wild Salmon), nuts, grains, and seeds
• Exercise, Exercise
• Maintaining body weight (BMI)
• Utilizing fresh herbs and spices
• Probiotic acidolphius
• Fruits (organic is best)

Avoid the following as best as you can: (READ LABELS)

• Process foods especially meats with SODIUM NITRATES & PRESERVATIVES (cold cuts, smoked meats, and hydrogenated oils)
• Artificial colorings (no nutritional value for the body)
• Red meats (reduce or eliminate as best as you can)
• Hormone or clone meats and other products- milk etc.
• GMO products (Genetically Modified Organisms)
• Smoking
• Limit the alcohol
• Sodas and artificial drink beverages
• Sugars - White and high fructose corn syrup

Get with this...


Better than Soda & High fructose drinks!



Organic berries

         As you can see the whole digestive tract is a big system and it does a lot to help the body function so we are able to eat, digest the nutrients, and eliminate toxin waste.  It is up to "yourself" in maintaining the proper healthy diet balance in helping support the digestive tract.  Once again the digestive tract is 70% of the immune system.  If this is off its course, then the whole body will eventually fall apart.  We, as a society, cannot be in the clouds of not knowing what is going on.  We must start learning and reading on what is out there and how stuff can benefit your life and family. 

     If you don't cook, then start learning to cook. 

Steamed Broccoli and Brussel Sprout

 STEPS

 1.  Thoroughly wash produce.
 2.  Cut stems and separate the broccoli.

 Appliances:
1 medium-big pot with cover
1 steam basket

 Directions:
 Fill pot with water (mid-level or bit lower).
 Do not let water touch basket.
 Heat water to a rapid boil.
 Add the vegetables in the basket and cover.
 Cook until dark green 5 min.


It's simple, fun, creative, and it helps bring the family back to the table.



Family table encourages good eating habits

     As you are aware, we can no longer rely on the government to help maintain pure food supplies. So much crap has been put into our foods and slipped through the proper channels of those supposedly "policing" it.  Now and always YOU should be pushing forward on what is not acceptable.  Remember you are the consumer/buyer.  We must be our own police in eating and choosing the right food products.



Healthy Variety of Greens!

As supermarket prices increases purchasing the healthy alternative foods gets push back to the bottom of the shopping list.

Option:  Grow your own foods.
               Shop at farmer's market.
               Join community food co-ops.

(I will show you in future postings a step by step on how I once again "reaped the benefits" in growing my own produce and finally created a vegetable garden this past summer!)





Shop at a herb and spice specialty store

You don't need Lawry's Season Salt.

Create your own spices!

Mix your own herbs!










 

On that note,  I hope you will take some of this knowledge and be PROACTIVE.


        Lets spread AWARENESS,
                                              Get in the know,
                                                            Ask as many questions,
                                                                                                and
                                                                               Don't be afraid in asking questions.

                                                                                                 Knowledge is POWER!

                                                                                                       


SECRET FOR A CLEAN DIGESTIVE TRACT

"Healthy Digestive Tract"

     Fiber is the secret to having a clean digestive tract.  Why fiber?  Fiber keeps your digestive tract regulated and reduces the risk of certain cancers, such as, colon and breast cancer.  As I mention several times in previous postings the digestive tract is 70% of your immune system.  If the tract is off, your body goes through signs letting you know "hey I'm off track".  For example, constipation.

What is constipation?

     I know constipation is a "taboo" word few of you don't want to hear or talk about. But, there is no other way in getting around it.  So deal with it.  If you are one of the few who suffers from this symptom, I know it can be frustrating, painful, and very uncomfortable. 

 

     Constipation occurs when bowl movements are less frequent (#2).  If you are not making #2 two-four times a day or every two days, then this should be a red flag for you.  Going longer than 3 days straight with no bowel movement is way too long.  This action causes the bowel to be hard to pass (hard rock stools) and straining. 

 

Causes of constipation

• Lack of fiber in the diet
• Lack of water intake
• No exercise
• Stress
• Eating high carbs, starches, and dairy products (cheese)
• Overuse of laxatives (*overtime it will weaken the bowel muscles)
• Medications
• Antacid containing calcium or aluminum
• Pregnancy
• Colon cancer



 

Symptoms of constipation

• Abdominal pain
• Bloated/Swollen abdomen 
• Vomiting
• Pain

 

**If you are experiencing constipation for two weeks or more, seek medical assistance as soon as possible.



 Prevention

 

Eat a well balance diet-  increase the fiber foods.

Fruits, vegetables (dark greens) kale, mustard greens, swiss chard, collard greens, dandelion, beet greens, arugula, spinach, cabbage, beans, and whole grains etc.







 

 Different types of fiber
     Soluble fiber attracts water.  It mixes with the water and digestive enzymes by the liver to create a gel.  This slows digestion.  Soluble fiber controls blood sugar and reduces cholesterol.  It is found in oat bran, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils, peas, barley, brown rice, some vegetables (carrots) and fruits. (apples & oranges).


Yellow (natural coloring from turmeric) Brown Rice with Juniper Berry

    Insoluble fiber adds bulk to the stool needed to clean out the colon.  It absorbs water and swells inside your intestine to produce a feeling of fullness.  Insoluble fiber helps food pass quickly through the stomach and intestines to remove waste and toxins the body doesn't need.  Insoluble fiber controls and balance the pH (acidity) in the intestines.  Vegetables, such as, dark green leafy greens and green beans, whole wheat/grain products, wheat bran, corn bran, root vegetable skins, fruit skins, seeds, and nuts are the food sources of insoluble fiber.   



     In conclusion, fiber foods is the "secret" to having a clean digestive tract.  We all need the fiber to help balance out the pH levels in the intestines to avoid colon cancer.  Plus, it helps keep moving the waste out of our system as constantly as possible.  Try a dairy-free probiotic supplement daily (store in fridge).

 Eat the foods to live!