JUNE 27, 2024 STRAWBERRIES

Strawberries are among the world’s favorite berries — and for good reason. Their taste can be divine, and they’re loaded with beneficial nutrients. But they also come with a few downsides, including health and environmental concerns.

I love all berries. Berries have anti oxidant and anti inflammatory properties. I grow blueberries, strawberries, gooseberries and mulberries in my yard. I even have 3 elderberry trees.

I recently read about where we get our strawberries ! Ninety percent of the strawberries grown in the US come from California, including many varieties that were first cultivated — and then patented — by the University of California at Davis. While most strawberries are consumed in the US or China, a large amount of US-grown berries end up in Canada. The US also imports fresh strawberries from Mexico, with the amount reaching a record high of 431 million pounds in 2020.

So the downside to any produce is the use of pesticides. Pesticides also are dangerous to our honeybees. Honeybees pollinate 1/3 of the foods we eat Strawberries also top the list of pesticide-contaminated produce, which is a problem for consumers as well as farmworkers.

A cup of sliced strawberries will deliver roughly 53 calories, almost all of which come from carbohydrates. You’ll also get a decent 3.3 grams of fiber, a bit of fat, and a tad over a gram of protein.

Strawberries are a good source of folate and vitamin C, as well as essential minerals like manganese, copper, and potassium.

So eat strawberries-just find out about them before you consume any fruit or vegetable.

Until tomorrow…

JUNE 26, 2024 ANTI INFLAMMATORY FOODS

Did you ever think to eat foods that are anti inflammatory ? Most of us do not think of foods in that way 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. Certain foods, rich in specific nutrients, have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote overall health.

One of these foods 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, further reducing inflammation.

Olive oil, especially extra virgin  olive oil, is renowned for its health benefits. I grew up on olive oil Olive oil has, anti-inflammatory properties. The key compound in olive oil, oleocanthal, has been shown to have similar anti-inflammatory effects as ibuprofen. This makes  olive oil an excellent dietary choice for reducing inflammation. Additionally, the monounsaturated fats in olive oil are beneficial for heart health and can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Lastly are blueberries I eat blueberries every day. Blueberries are not only delicious but also a powerhouse of anti-inflammatory properties, mainly due to their high antioxidant content. These antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, give blueberries their distinctive color and reduce inflammation. Regular consumption of blueberries has been linked to a decrease in the risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions associated with inflammation

So it is your responsibility to find out which foods are anti inflammatory. These are other like almonds and using tumeric.

Until tomorrow…

JUNE 25 2024 ENOUGH WATER

Do you think you drink enough water. Are you feeling tired and run down? It’s possible that you’re not drinking enough  water. Believe it or not, dehydration can cause many problems, from fatigue to migraines to weight gain. But don’t worry – this doesn’t mean you have to drink gallons of  water every day. Just a few extra glasses can make a big difference I make sure ever day especially in the summer that I drink 5-6 bottled waters per day I try to drink them before I leave work

When your body is properly hydrated, your skin cells can function properly, giving you a radiant complexion. In addition,  water helps to flush out toxins and impurities that can lead to breakouts.

ur joints are what gives our bodies the ability to move. You have joints in your knees, hips, shoulders, and elbows, as well as in your fingers and toes. The points where your bones meet and are held together by ligaments. Cartilage covers the ends of your bones and helps to cushion them, making it easier for us to move. When you don’t drink enough  water, the cartilage in your joints can start to break down. This can lead to pain and stiffness and an increased risk of developing osteoarthritis. 

When it comes to blood pressure, the most important organ are the kidneys. Your kidneys also do red blood cell production, and calcium metabolism. Kidney damage can be caused by a variety of things, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain medications.  Drinking plenty of  water is one of the best ways to prevent kidney damage.  Water helps to flush out toxins and keeps the kidneys functioning properly.

The need for water is essential for overall health Please drink enough water today and every day

Until tomorrow…

JUNE 21, 2024 FOODS THAT DETOXIFY

Incorporating detoxifying foods into your diet can help boost your energy levels, improve digestion, and promote a healthy complexion. Most of my patients start the day with room temperature water and lemon as my suggestion Why do you ask ? Lemons are renowned for their detoxifying properties, largely due to their high vitamin C content and alkalizing effects. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress. Additionally, lemons stimulate the production of bile, which is essential for digestion and the elimination of waste product

There are other foods that detoxify Another food that is a staple to my diet is Garlic ) Allium sativum) Garlic is part of the Lily Family Family. Others in this category are Onions and Chives. Garlic is a powerful detoxifier, thanks to its rich content of sulfur compounds and natural antibiotic properties. These sulfur compounds, such as allicin, boost the production of detoxifying enzymes in the liver, enhancing its ability to remove toxins from the body. Garlic also has properties of being antibacterial and antiviral

Lastly is the ingestion of Green Tea ( Camilla sinensis ) Green tea is a popular detoxifying beverage, packed with antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. I think more individuals drink coffee than green tea in the United States. Green tea is consumed a lot in China and Japan One of the key antioxidants found in green tea is catechins, which are known to enhance liver function and increase the body’s detoxification abilities. The active ingredient that is the detoxifier is EGCG. Drinking green tea regularly can help flush out toxins, reduce inflammation, and support the immune system.

Start with these and start to detoxify

Until tomorrow…

JUNE 20, 2024 IRON DEFICIENCY

Iron deficiency, one of the most common nutritional disorders worldwide, often remains unnoticed until it escalates into a more severe condition like anemia. In my office I routinely check iron levels. It is a sign of fatigue and malaise in an individual There are many other signs of iron deficiency that go unnoticed.

One sign that goes unnoticed are headaches. Headaches, although common and often attributed to stress or other external factors, can sometimes be a sign of iron deficiency. Reduced iron levels can lead to decreased oxygen supply to the brain.

Your cold hands and feet might be a low iron. hen the body’s iron levels dip, it can result in poor blood flow to the extremities, making hands and feet feel colder than usual. This sensation isn’t merely the typical cold one might feel during winter but a persistent coldness that doesn’t seem to go away easily. I usually check thyroid levels also, as cold hands and feet can be a sign of thyroid deficiency ( or hypothyroidism)

Iron is needed for your hair and nails. The health of one’s nails and hair can offer valuable insights into overall well-being. Iron deficiency can manifest itself in the form of brittle nails that crack or break easily. Similarly, hair might start thinning or falling out more than usual.

The above are just a few signs of iron deficiency. Have your doctor check your iron levels.

Until tomorrow,,,

JUNE 19, 2024 YOUR HAIR

While most people focus on skincare and other aspects of health, the state of your hair often goes unnoticed as a health indicator. You need to take care of your hair while consuming certain supplements and eating certain foods. Hair is not merely strands of keratin; it’s a complex structure made up of various components, each serving a unique function. Amino acids, the building blocks of protein, form the core structure of hair. These amino acids are crucial for hair strength and elasticity. Melanin, the pigment responsible for the color of your hair, is another key component.

Thinning hair is often dismissed as a natural part of aging, but it could be indicative of underlying health issues. Hormonal imbalances, particularly in thyroid hormones or sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone, can lead to hair thinning. Stress is another significant factor; high levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to hair loss There also is a thyroid cause of hair thinning. This could be an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism. You might have a subclinical hypothyroid where the TSH ( thyroid stimulating hormone) is not greater than 4.0. Instead the TSH is in the normal range but the free t3 and free t4 are low

Dandruff isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it can be a sign of underlying scalp health problems. The white flakes you see could be due to a variety of factors, including fungal infections or seborrheic dermatitis, a condition that causes the skin to become oily and irritated

You also could not be getting enough protein Pay attention to your hair

Until tomorrow…

JUNE 18, 2024 THE THYROID GLAND

The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, energy levels, and even mood. A well-functioning thyroid is instrumental for optimal health. .Incorporating specific foods into the diet can provide essential nutrients to support and enhance thyroid function One of these foods that help thyroid are walnuts

Walnuts are a powerhouse of essential nutrients, particularly selenium, that are integral for optimal thyroid function. Selenium acts as a catalyst in the production of thyroid hormones and helps protect the thyroid gland from oxidative stress. Rich in antioxidants, walnuts mitigate the damage caused by free radicals, promoting the overall health of the gland. Including a moderate amount of these nuts in the daily diet can offer a natural way to enhance thyroid function and ensure that it operates efficiently.

Another food is seaweed. It is not for everyone Seaweed, a natural source of iodine, is crucial for the production of thyroid hormones. Iodine deficiency is a common issue, especially in areas where the natural iodine content in food is low. Seaweed offers a rich, natural source of this essential element, supporting the thyroid in hormone production and regulation I used to get my fresh seaweed from the Seaweed Man located ion Maine., Now I eat Nouri crackers to get my iodine Most individuals do not use salt any longer but instead P{ink salt which lacks iodine

Lastly you need to consume fish Fish, particularly those rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, are instrumental in enhancing thyroid function. These essential fatty acids are known to reduce inflammation in the body, including the thyroid gland, promoting its optimal function. Varieties such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines are abundant in these nutrients.

Keep your thyroid functioning normal

Until tomorrow…

JUNE 17, 2024 HONEY

This natural wonder, derived from the hard work of bees, is packed with an array of health benefits. Rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and healing compounds it’s a potent natural remedy with uses ranging from enhancing digestive health to boosting the immune system. There is NO wonder why I became a beekeeper. I hgave beekeeping for more than 15 years. I am a apitherapist.

Raw honey is a natural guardian against bacteria and fungi, owing to its unique composition. The secret lies in its ability to produce hydrogen peroxide through an enzymatic process. This component acts as a mild antiseptic. I have used raw honey on diabetic wounds, and even to heal a wound on my 34 year old A,mazon Green Yellow double Nape Parrot.

Raw honey is a powerhouse for enhancing the immune system. Its rich array of antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, plays a crucial role in combating oxidative stress and inflammation, which are key factors in immune health. These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals, thereby reducing the risk of chronic diseases

When my childrten were young I used raw honey for their colds and flus Raw honey is widely recognized for its soothing effects on sore throats and coughs. Its thick, smooth texture coats the throat, providing immediate relief from irritation and dryness. The natural antibacterial properties also help in reducing throat infections. It is great when combined with other herbs like elderberry, elecampane and even horehound.

And for the beauty industrry , raw honey is essential for your skin. The benefits of raw honey extend to skincare, where its hydrating and nourishing properties are highly valued. Its natural humectant qualities help retain moisture, making it a superb ingredient in natural moisturizers and face masks.

These are just a few of the benefits of raw honey.

I harvest my honey at the end of the summer . You can order from Botanical Bounty in NYC

Until tomorrow…