OCTOBER 16, 2024 CHOLESTEROL

We are obsessed with cholesterol Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is essential for cardiovascular health. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, two leading causes of death worldwide. Diet plays a crucial role in managing cholesterol levels. We can acgheve better cholesterol levels through dietary changes and exercise. You always do NOT have to take cholesterol medications. There are many heart healthy foods.

One food is Avocados.. Noy everyone likes the taste of avocados. Avocados are renowned for their heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. These fats aid in lowering LDL cholesterol while maintaining levels of HDL cholesterol. Additionally, avocados are rich in potassium, a nutrient that helps in regulating blood pressure. I was eating too many per week and it started to cause arthritis. It is because too many avocados are not great for Blood Type O. Several studies indicate that consuming avocados regularly can lead to significant reductions in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

I love this next food- Oatmeal. I usually cook McMann’s Old Fashioned Oatmea; on the weekend. This was I have it for the next four days I particularly like this in the Fall and Winter Oatmeal is a powerhouse of soluble fiber, which plays a key role in cholesterol management. Soluble fiber reduces the absorption of cholesterol into the bloodstream, thereby lowering LDL levels. Oats also contain beta-glucan which is a tye of fiber that lowers cholesterol.

The next food source is also a type of fiber. These are white beans White beans are a fantastic source of fiber, which is essential for lowering cholesterol. The fiber in white beans helps bind cholesterol in the digestive system, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream. Additionally, white beans are a good source of protein

So you see you can lower your cholesterol naturally with foods. You can also add to this some heart healthy supplements to lower your cholesterol. These could be globe artichoke, omega 3 fatty acids, policosinol and much more

Until tomorrow…

OCTOBER 15, 2024 MAQUI BERRY

What are Maqui berries ? It is not a common berry that individuals discuss. Maqui berry (Aristotelia chilensis) is an exotic, dark-purple fruit that grows wild in South America. Maqui berry is characterized by antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of maqui berry extracts on human skin fibroblasts (NHSFs) exposed to ultraviolet radiation (UVB). The photoprotective properties of the extracts were investigated via the determination of the total polyphenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity

Due to its high antioxidant potential it is considered a superfruit “ It has potential health benefits, including reduced inflammation, blood sugar control and heart health All antioxidant reduce your risk f chronic diseases “ Maqui berries are reportedly packed with up to three times more antioxidants than blackberries, blueberries, strawberries and raspberries

All berries contain anthocyanins Maqui berry is rich in anthocyanins, potent antioxidants that have been linked to a healthier heart. .

The Nurses Health Study in 93,600 young and middle-aged women found that diets highest in anthocyanins were associated with a 32% reduced risk of heart attacks, compared to those lowest in these antioxidants

R recently read a report in Life Extenson magazine about using the maqui berry for treatment of dry eye syndrome. I usually rescribe gluthathione ( another powerful antioxidant) for dry eyes. The best remedy I use for dry eye syndrome is low dose naltrexne ( LDN) 1.0 mg to 4.5 mg. A recent pilot study found that this berry takn orally provided a 72 % improvement in dry eye syndrome It also increased tear production by 89 This was encouraging as most medical doctors do ot how to treat dry eye syndrome In the article i Life Extension magazine it was a small study of 13 patients getting 30 mg or 60 mg of extract daily for 2 months. I couldn’t find other pilot studies. Life Extension is known for always keeping the public informed on such good data

Until tomorrow…

OCTOBER 14, 2024 WATRCRESS

Do you eat watercress? Have you ever heard of watercress Watercress or yellowcress is a species of aquatic flowering plant in the cabbage family, Brassicaceae. It is one of the oldest known leaf vegetables consumed by humans

It does contain Vitamin B6, B12, A, C , D E and K Snce it is in the cruciferous family it contains phenels. It is the highest in phenol content when compared to other cruciferous vegetables. It has been used traditionally in cultures to treat blood sugar issues, bronchitis and high cholesterol I have never used it for high cholesterol A with many other cruciferous vegetables it has anti oxidant and anti microbial properties.

Watercress does contain compounds called glucosinolates. These active glucosinolates have been touted as anti cancer compounds. It has been researched against various cancers as breast, colon and prostate. Watercress is used for helping the liver that has sustained injury from radiation and heavy metal toxicity

You can add watercress to your salads. It does taste will with mesculin and endive salads

Until tomorrow…

OCTOBER 10, 2024 FOOD FOR THE THYROID

For years I have been talking about keeping your thyroid healthy . The thyroid gland needs the support of foods rich in zinc, selenium, copper, Vtiamin B12 and iodine Incorporating specific foods into the diet can provide essential nutrients to support and enhance thyroid function.

Nuts are a great source of selenium for the thyroid . There are two nuts you should consume—Brazil nuts and Waknuts. 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 stres. If you have an autoimmune thyroiditis, called Hashimo9to’s thyroiditis - I suggest cinsuning one brazil nut per day ( and discontinue any gluten from your dietary lifestyle )

The second foods you need to consume are seaweed and fish Both are rich in iodine. 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.

The last food that everyone should consume are blueberries and other berries Berries are celebrated for their antioxidant-rich content, making them a preferred choice for combating oxidative stress and supporting thyroid health. Varieties such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries abound with vitamins and antioxidants that aid in protecting the thyroid gland

So you need to change your dietary lifdestyle to support your thyroid

Until tomorrow….

OCTOBER 9, 2024 MAGNESIUM

This is one supplement we need to take daily. Magnesium is a crucial mineral that plays a vital role in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the human body, including energy production, nerve function, and muscle contraction. Despite its importance, many people fall short of their daily magnesium requirements

Magnesium, a key mineral in the human body, is essential for many physiological processes. It helps convert food into energy, create new proteins from amino acids, and regulate neurotransmitters that send messages throughout the brain and nervous system. Adults require 310-420 mg of magnesium daily,

There are many different types of nagnesium . I use certain derivatives for certain health conditions. For example, I use magnesium orotate for hypertension, magnesium theanate for anxity and restlessness, and magnesium citrate or oxide for constipation.

If you do NOT want to take it as a suplement or vitamin, yo can get it from certain foods. Nuts and seeds are among the best dietary sources of magnesium. For example, just a half-cup of  pumpkin seeds provides nearly 100% of the recommended daily intake of magnesium. Almonds, cashews, and Brazil nuts are also rich in this mineral, Then there are greens. Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are not only famous for their high fiber content but also their impressive magnesium levels.

Do you eat enough fish ? Fish, particularly fatty varieties like salmon, mackerel, and halibut, are excellent sources of magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart health. A 3-ounce serving of cooked salmon provides around 26 mg of magnesium You ust consume beans. Legumes, including beans, lentils, and chickpeas, are excellent plant-based sources of magnesium, protein, and fiber,

So eat foods that are rich in magnesium

Until tomorrow…

OCTOBER 8, 2024 LEMON WATER

We all know that  drinking water is vital for your health, but what about adding some  lemon to the mix? Drinking lemon water is a great way to start your day. It is refreshing and provides some health benefits. Do you drink lemon water ?

Lemons are a powerhouse of nutrients and antioxidants, making them one of the best foods you can eat to boost your immune system. Vitamin C is perhaps the most well-known immune-boosting nutrient, and lemons are an excellent source of this vitamin. Just one lemon provides over 20% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C.

Who would ever think that leon waer is beneficial for sleep and better energy levels. According to a recent study, lemon water may promote better sleep. The study found that participants who drank lemon water before bed fell asleep faster and slept more soundly than those who did not drink lemon water. In addition, the participants who drank lemon water reported higher energy levels and overall well-being

Lemon water is also god as a poultice or put on a rag and place an affected area with acne One of these is lemon water. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for skin health. Additionally, they contain citric acid, which has natural exfoliating properties. When applied to the skin, lemon juice can help gently remove dead skin cells

Until tomorrow…

OCTOBER 7, 2024 BLOATING

Bloating, a common digestive issue, affects many people worldwide, leading to discomfort and inconvenience. It’s characterized by a feeling of fullness, swelling in the abdominal area, and sometimes pain Most of the gastrointestinal complaints in my office is for bloating. It occurs sometimes when individuals eat certain foods, or happens when the patient eats very little The gateway to inflammation is ‘ the gut’ or the gastrointestinal tract

The triggers of bloating are diverse, ranging from the consumption of high-FODMAP foods to stress-related gastrointestinal responses. Identifying personal triggers is a crucial step in managing bloating effectively. For this reason we do in the office extensive IgG Food allergy testing This is different than IgE which is for immediate sensitivity after eating a food- like a rash or getting red. Some of these foods include certain fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy products.I also ask the individuals blood type. I often incorporate reducing inflammatory foods for their blood type

After food allergy testing if there is still bloating i would do some stool testing. I utilize stool kits as GI Map which tests for good, and bad bacteria, parasites, and yeast ad much more. Even more important is to test for small intestinal bacteria overgrowth ( SIBO) This is where there are too many good bacteria producing wither methane or hydrogen gas thus causing bloating We can do SIBO testing in our office. We even do a breath test for Helicobacter pylori.

Once we find the reason for your bloating , we start t treat with herbs and supplements There are many good gastrontestnal herbs as Slippery Elm, Marshmallow, Meadowsweet and Catnip. There are other herbs for SIBO as horse chestnut and Peppermint We make sure the bloating is not caused by a disorder in your thyroid or is it your hormones. as estrogens and progesterone.

Find out the cause of your boating..

Until tomorrow…

OCTOBER 3, 2024 APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

Apple Cider Vinegar, a household name, has been a health and wellness staple for generations Derived from fermented  apple juice, it’s both accessible and affordable. I rotate three different remedies for my mornings- One teaspoon of apple cidar vinegar with water, lime juice with water or lemon juice with water

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) has been lauded for centuries for its role in enhancing digestive health. Its natural acidity, primarily due to the presence of acetic acid, can help to balance the pH level in your stomach. It is great for reflux esophagitis, and gastritis As we age we lose enzymes in our stomach. his is why I sometimes prescribe digestive enzymes to the older population .

High cholesterol levels and unregulated blood pressure are two major risk factors for heart disease, and ACV may play a role in managing both I don’t use apple cidar as my first natural remedy for high cholesterol and blood pressure

Lasttly , Apple Cider Vinegar has been recognized for its potent antimicrobial properties It can help with dysbiosis, opportunistic infection and even Helicobacter pylori

You must acquire the taste for apple cider vinegar Try it and see if you ike

Until tomorrow…