MARCH 6, 2025 AN APPLE A DAY

I have loved apples since childhood. It is the most constant fruit in my dietary lifestyle Apples are packed with essential nutrients, rich in fiber, and loaded with antioxidants, apples offer a myriad of health advantages

Apples are excelltn for heart health. Apples are a good source of soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. In addition, apples contain polyphenols, antioxidants that help protect the heart by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress

I use a lot of pectin on patients with cancer or immune dysfrunction. Apples also contain a type of fiber called pectin, which helps remove toxins from the body. Pectin also promotes gut health, which is essential for the immune system. As far a gut health, as the pectin feeds the beneficial bacteria in the gut. These bacteria are essential for many aspects of health, including immune function and digestion So eating an apple a day is beneficial to many aspects of your health.

I remember reading Michael Pollan’s book, “ The Botany of Desire. “ There was a while chapter devoted to apples which was so informative. Apples contain quercetin, a type of flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory properties. Quercetin is used to treat allergies and asthma. I often used quercetin with stinging nettle leaf. One product that combines both is Natural D Hist. The Vitamin C and beta carotene in apples also reduce inflammation.

Apples may help improve brain health. The study found that rats fed a diet containing apples improved performance on memory and learning tests. Additionally, the rats who ate apples had higher levels of a brain-protective antioxidant called glutathione . So gluthathione may help human brains

So Eat an Apple a Day

Until tomorrow…

MARCH 5, 2025 BENEFITS OF BEE POLLEN

What is bee pollen ? Bee pollen is one of the many beehive products from a honeybee hive Bee pollen, a natural substance collected by bees, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. This potent mixture of pollen, nectar, enzymes, honey, wax, and bee secretions offers a rich source of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals

Did you know that every product of the beehive called an apiary product can be used medicinally. There are health benefits for bee pollen, as well as honey, propolis, bee venom, royal jelly and even bee bread. The health benefits of bee pollen include its immune-boosting properties, digestive health support, and energy enhancement capabilities. These are just a few

The benefits from bee pollen is its enzymes. These enzymes are crucial for breaking down food and extracting nutrients effectively. Bee pollen also contains a significant amount of dietary fiber, which is essential for maintaining gut health The fiber helps regulate bowel motions and prevent constipation in some individuals. I add bee pollen to my granola/yogurt/berry concoction for breakfast

I use bee pollen to provide me added or needed energy Bee pollen is rich in proteins and carbohydrates, which are essential for sustained energy. Its composition includes B-vitamins, particularly B12 and riboflavin, known for their role in energy metabolism. This unique blend of nutrients provides a steady release of energy Bee pollen is a great antioxidant It can help your skin look beautiful I try to consume it every day

I once heard a an apitherapy conference from a beekeeper/apitherapist that you could survive on bee pollen alone if you needed to

Join the American Apitherapy Society ( wwwe.apitherapy.org )

Until tomorrow…


MARCH 4, 2025 CHOLESTEROL

As I have discussed many times, Americans are obsessed with their cholesterol You should be concerned about the amount of carbohydrates you intake in your daily dietary lifestyle. People eat daily that can raise your cholesterol levels and put you at risk for heart disease Eating the wrong kinds of food can lead to higher LDL levels– the bad kind There are 2 types of bad cholesterol when discussing particle size. It is not about the number but the type of particles. I would encourage you to ask your physician to draw your blood. This way he/she can send to a lab about particle size. The test is called Cardiac IQ done by Quest, or NMD done by LabCorp.

Do you consume about of red meat . Red meat may be full of flavor and a favorite amongst many, but its high-fat content can do more harm than good to your cholesterol levels. The fats and protein found in red meat are known to raise LDL (bad) cholesterol while lowering your HDL (good) cholesterol. Do not worry as fish, poultry, beans, and nuts can also be excellent replacements for unhealthy red meats that raise cholesterol levels.

I love eggs. The prominent nutrient in egg yolks is dietary cholesterol, which can raise your overall blood cholesterol levels Unfortunately, they are also an excellent source of cholesterol, with one jumbo-sized egg containing over 240mg of cholesterol. I do NOT avoid eggs. Eggs are an excellent source of protein The egg yolk ( the yellow part) also contains lots of B vitamins which are healthy for your dietary lifestyle

Do you consume shellfish ? Many Americans during the summer consume more shellfish. Shellfish often appear harmless, they are chock full of cholesterol-raising saturated fat and cholesterol. A 3-ounce serving of jumbo shrimp contains 184 mg of cholesterol, while 4 ounces of oysters contain over 270 ml

As Americans we love the processed baked goods. This I feel is the worst food to raise cholesterol and unhealthy. The carbohydrates raise your triglycerides, which overall then lower your good cholesterol ( HDL ) Store-bought baked goods have high levels of trans fats and saturated fat, which can drastically raise bad cholesterol levels.

So choose your protein wisely Be very concerned about processed food.

Until tomorrow. …

MARCH 3, 2025 FOODS THAT BOOST THE BRAIN

The brain, a complex and vital organ, requires various nutrients to operate optimally.

ONE OF THE BEST FOODS FOR THE BRAIN IF YOU ARE NOT TYPE O BLOOD ARE AVOCADOS. This fruit is packed with nutrients essential for brain health. The monounsaturated fats in avocado are heart-healthy fats that contribute to healthy blood flow, a key element in cognitive function.

When it comes to fruits that are good for your brain, blueberries are among the top contenders. Rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, these tiny powerhouses help neutralize free radicals in the body, thereby reducing oxidative stress. If you do not like consuming blueberries you can always drink Weyman’s Blueberry Juice.

The one green you should always have is Spinach. Spinach may not have been your favorite vegetable as a child, but its immense health benefits, especially for the brain, are undeniable. This leafy green is rich in vital nutrients like Vitamin K, which plays an essential role in maintaining the integrity of the nervous system

Lastly iuf there is one sweet to c9nsume I suggest Dark Chocolate This dark chocolate contains moderate amounts of caffeine helps improve focus and concentration. Additionally, dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids and antioxidants, which offer a broad range of benefits, from enhancing mood to improving cognitive function.

So now you have at least 4 foods to boost that brain power Take advantage of these

Until tomorrow…

FEBRUARY 27, 2024 PINEAPPLES

 Pineapples, with their distinctive sweet and tangy flavor, have captivated my taste buds since childhood Pineapples are a treasure trove of essential nutrients, offering a cocktail of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. Rich in Vitamin C, manganese, and dietary fiber, this fruit stands out for its impressive nutritional profile. The presence of these nutrients ensures that pineapples are not just a tasty treat but also a health-enhancing food.

The enzyme bromelain, found abundantly in pineapples, is another noteworthy component. It breaks down proteins, aiding in digestion and showcasing anti-inflammatory properties.

The enzyme bromelain is a star player when it comes to the digestive benefits of pineapples. It facilitates the breakdown of proteins into amino acids, easing the digestive process and potentially alleviating symptoms of indigestion and bloating. Regular consumption of pineapples may contributw to better digestion I also use bromelain as a natural blood thinner along with nattokinase and Omega 3

It is great to boost the immune system Pineapples are celebrated for their anti-inflammatory properties, largely attributed to the enzyme bromelain. This enzyme has been studied for its potential to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions. The only disadvantage is that pineapples have a high glycemic index ( means pineapples can elevate blood sugar levels )

There is one ther side effect. Despite the numerous benefits, overconsumption of pineapples may lead to certain risks and discomforts. The fruit’s acidity can cause mouth irritation or exacerbate symptoms in individuals prone to acid reflux and heartburn.

So I am telling you to eat some pineapple in your fruit mixture.

Until tomorrow…

FEBRUARY 26, 2025 CINNAMON

It;s distinctive The warming, sweet and woody aroma of cinnamon is one of the most recognizable scents out there. I add cinnamon to my herbal teas I drink as well as to some food dishes. Cinnamon has great health benefits.

Cinnamon may improve oral health. Cinnamon is thought to reduce the formation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that can lead to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath Cnnamon is a natural source of fluoride, which helps to strengthen teeth and prevent decay. Try to get a toothpaste with cinnamon oil or powder in it. These do exist !

Cinnamon has been shown to promote heart health in a number of ways. For one, it helps to lower cholesterol levels It is good to add cinnamon to your dietary lifestyle. cinnamon has also been shown to improve blood sugar control. This is important because high blood sugar levels can damage the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease. The association between diabetes and heart disease is highly correlated.

Cinnamon has ts ability to improve gut health. Cinnamon is a potent source of antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body.It is great to add cinnamon to support individual’s with irritable bowel disease as Crohn’s , Celac , and Ulceratve colitis. By reducing inflammation, cinnamon may help to alleviate some of the symptoms of these conditions.

So add cinnamon to your dietary lifestyle

Until tomorrow…

FEBRUARY 25, 2025 INFLAMMATION

Inflammation is a natural response of the body to protect itself against harm, but chronic inflammation can lead to various  health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Understanding the role of diet in managing inflammation is crucial I feel the best way to combat inflammation is by diet and if not one should take some vitamins, and herbs.

The first food to incorporate in your dietary lifestyle is Kale. Kale stands out as a  superfood, primarily due to its high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients, especially vitamins K, A, and C, contribute significantly to its anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the presence of glucosinolates in kale helps in detoxifying the body

Nuts and seeds are important in anyone’s diet There are exception based on your blood type. The other exception is any individual with diverticulosis or a history of diverticulitis should avoid nuts. Certain nuts are better than others. For example walnuts are high in Omega 3 which are anti inflammatory. Brazil nuts are good for selenium and for patient’s with Autoimmune thyroiditis. Almonds are a powerhouse of nutrients and a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They are particularly rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps combat inflammation and stress in the body. Almonds also contain healthy monounsaturated fats, which are known to reduce inflammation and promote heart health

A good source of protein and low in mercury that is anti inflammatory is Salmon.Salmon is celebrated for its high omega-3 fatty acid content, essential fats that are known for their anti-inflammatory effects. These fatty acids help reduce the production of molecules and substances linked to inflammation, such as inflammatory eicosanoids and cytokines

There are two great herbs that are anti inflammatory are ginger and turmeric. You should incorporate these two herbs into your diet.

Until tomorrow…

FEBRUARY 24, 2025 FOODS TO LOWER BLOOD SUGAR

Diabetes is a real threat in the United States. We are becoming an obese country. Too many Americans eat foods that are high in sugar. Many consume processed foods which are loaded with sugar.Regulating blood sugar levels is essential for maintaining optimal health, particularly for individuals managing diabetes or pre-diabetes. Stable blood glucose helps prevent long-term health complications such as neuropathy and cardiovascular diseases.

We must all consume foods that lower blood sugar. Two such foods are oats and beans. Fiber is a powerhouse when it comes to slowing down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, which helps prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. Soluble fiber, in particular, forms a gel-like substance in the gut that binds with sugar and slows its absorption. Foods rich in soluble fiber, like oats and beans, are thus excellent choices I try in the winter to consume steel cut oatmeal on a regular basis as three times a week.

We as Americans are afraid of grains. Many cannot consume grains as individuals who are sensitive to gluten, , those allergic to gluten as Celiac patients and those with autoimmune disease have to avoid certain grains. Studies have shown many grains are inflammatory to some individuals. Whole grains are integral to a blood sugar-friendly diet because they digest more slowly than refined grains, leading to more gradual rises in blood sugar levels. Unlike refined grains, which have been stripped of valuable nutrients during processing, whole grains retain their bran and germ. This means they provide more fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which are beneficial for blood sugar management. Foods like quinoa, whole oats, and brown rice

Lasttly we should consume nuts, seeds and avocados. Healthy fats are crucial in a diet aimed at regulating blood sugar levels because they do not directly raise glucose levels and can help slow the overall digestion process. Incorporating sources of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, such as avocados, nuts, and seeds, can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar spikes

There are many supplements that lower blood sugar especially chromium and alpha lipoic acid. There are also herbs as cinnamon fegreek and bitter melon to reduce blood sugar Since diabetes is highly correlated with heart disease— please lower your sugar level

Until tomorrow…