The Benefits of Peaches

It's time to add more peaches in our daily diet! Research shows how healing they really are. 

This post is in honor of Peach related Holidays. Below you will find a list of  peach holidays and a list of "The Benefits of Peaches" as it relates to Home remedies, Food therapy and treatments. 

The benefits of peaches are amazing!

National Peach Ice Cream Day / July 17

National Eat A Peach Day / August 22

National Peach Cobbler Day / April 13
National Peach Month / August

• Peaches are recommended for acute, infectious diseases. They are recommended for reducing cholesterol in blood, in prevention of cardiovascular, renal diseases and anemia. Peaches are used in abdominal colics and rheumatism pains. As tea they are recommended in convulsive cough.
• Peach is the aliment recommended for convalescence, for those who are in advanced states of fatigue or depressive states. It charges and regenerates energetic reserves through its rich containment of sugar and carbohydrates. Due to the fact that they contain phosphorus, peaches are recommended in neurosis, protecting the nervous cells.
• Vitamin A, B1 and B2 are irreplaceable for the balance of the nervous system, they achieve the synthesis of hemoglobine, maintain magnesium in the body and strengthen the natural immunity.
• Breast cancer cells -- even the most aggressive type -- died after treatments with peach and plum extracts in lab tests by two specific phenolic acid components : chlorogenic and neochlorogenic.
• Peaches eaten in the morning instead of breakfast regulate intestinal and hepatic functions, maintain the alkalinization of blood, favor asssimilation and nutrition. The regular consumption of peaches is recommended to those with urinary lithiasis as well as for those who want to increase their urinary debit.
• Peaches feed and regenerate the skin tissue. If the face is lotioned with peach juice, the complexion can be given a more shiny look.
• Apart from their therapeutic qualities, peaches can be used in various weight losing diets. In the peel of a very ripe peach, at least 10 enigmatic elements exist which activate some substances which destroy the fat layers, this is why peach diets are effective.

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Extra Information:

Phytochemicals

Total polyphenols in mg per 100 g of fresh weight were 14–102 in white-flesh nectarines, 18–54 in yellow-flesh nectarines, 28–111 in white-flesh peaches, and 21–61 mg per 100 g in yellow-flesh peaches. The major phenolic compounds identified in peach are chlorogenic acid, catechins and epicatechins, with other compounds, identified by HPLC, including gallic acid and ellagic acid. Rutin and isoquercetin are the primary flavonols found in clingstone peaches.

Red-fleshed peaches are rich in anthocyanins, particularly cyanidin glycosides in six peach and six nectarine cultivars and malvin glycosides in clingstone peaches. As with many other members of the rose family, peach seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides, including amygdalin (note the subgenus designation: Amygdalus). These substances are capable of decomposing into a sugar molecule and hydrogen cyanide gas. While peach seeds are not the most toxic within the rose family (see bitter almond), large consumption of these chemicals from any source is potentially hazardous to animal and human health.

Peach allergy or intolerance is a relatively common form of hypersensitivity to proteins contained in peaches and related fruits (such as almonds). Symptoms range from local effects (e.g. oral allergy syndrome, contact urticaria) to more severe systemic reactions, including anaphylaxis (e.g. urticaria, angioedema, gastrointestinal and respiratory symptoms). Adverse reactions are related to the "freshness" of the fruit: peeled or canned fruit may be tolerated.

Special Precautions of Chlorogenic Acid

• It was hypothesized in the 1960′s that chlorogenic acid was a chemical sensitizer, responsible for causing respiratory allergies to certain plant materials containing chlorogenic acid in humans. Some experiments on animals using fairly aggressive techniques, did cause severe allergic reactions after the material was injected into the animals, both to sensitise them and again to elicit the allergic response.
• Chlorogenic acid has also been associated with increased levels of the protein amino acid homocysteine. Increased homocysteine levels are linked to an increase in the risk of cardiovascular disease, however, it has not been proven that reducing elevated homocysteine improves cardiovascular outcomes for people.
• Chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid were once thought to be capable of inducing vitamin B1 deficiency, however, this hypothesis was disproven in the early 1980′s. It can however, reduce the absorption of zinc and iron from the diet.

Benefits and uses of Chlorogenic Acid are

• Slowed glucose absorption, reduced insulin spike after eating : slow down the absorption of glucose in the human gut, therefore reducing the insulin spike after a meal, an effect that is of significant benefit to those suffering from type II diabetes, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome or polycystic ovarian syndrome.
• Reduced production of glucose in the liver : Chlorogenic acid has also been found in vitro to inhibit the liver enzyme glucose-6-phosphatase which plays a critical role in the production of glucose in the liver.
• Increased uptake of glucose in muscle tissue
• Reduced risk of type II diabetes : People who drink a significant amount of coffee have less of a risk of developing type II diabetes than non-coffee drinkers. As caffeine worsens insulin sensitivity, this effect has been attributed to chlorogenic acid.
• Protection against Alzheimer’s disease, nerve degeneration : Population studies have linked moderate coffee consumption with a reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases and laboratory studies have begun to confirm that chlorogenic acid is one of the agents responsible for this protective effect, although caffeine is also considered likely to have a protective effect.
• Reduced risk of liver disease : The results of epidemiological research suggest that coffee consumption may help prevent several chronic diseases, including cirrhosis of the liver and hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer) as well as gallstones.
• Reduced body mass and fat
• Increase fat-burning and inhibit new fat cells forming
• Mild laxative
• Lower blood pressure
• Stimulant : Chlorogenic acid has a weak psychostimulant effect, with animal studies in rats estimating the effect to be around one third as strong as the effect from caffeine.
• Improve mood and cognitive abilities : A 2012 study in healthy elderly participants found that decaffeinated coffee with a higher concentration of chlorogenic acids (521 mg) improved their mood and ability to perform a battery of cognitive tasks in comparison with ordinary decaffeinated coffee which contained only 224 mg chlorogenic acids.
• Eyesight : Chlorogenic acid found in coffee prevents cell death in the retina by at least 73%. In some cases, it didn't just prevent cell damage—it actually increased the number of healthy cells.

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Resources / References / Outside Links

freedictionary.com

wikiwel.com

wikipedia.com
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Home Remedies For Menstrual Cramps

Signs and Symptoms of Menstrual Cramps Menstrual cramps (also known as dysmenorrhea) are pains that occur in the abdominal and pelvic areas as a result of a woman's menstrual period. The pain can vary significantly from woman to woman, with some cramps being relatively mild to others which are extremely severe.

Mild menstrual cramps are often barely noticeable, and usually only last for a few hours. In such instances, the main symptom is usually just a sense of bloating or heaviness in the stomach area. Severe menstrual cramps, however, usually result in significant throbbing pain in the lower abdominal area (and occasionally the lower back) which can interfere with a woman's everday activities. In these cases, cramping can usually last for one or two days.

This post is in honor of Menstrual Hygiene Day - Celebrated every May 28th.

National Women's Health Week / May

https://www.cdc.gov/women/observances/index.htm

• Heating Pads : Many women have found that a heating pad placed on your lower back or abdomen helps to ease the pain and discomfort of menstrual cramps. If you don't have a heating pad, one can be easily made by filling a sock with flaxseeds or uncooked rice and heating it in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes.
• Chamomile : Chamomile is widely used to treat gynecologic complaints such as menstrual cramps and discomfort related to premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Add 2 teaspoons of dried Chamomile flowers to a cup of boiling water and let it steep for at least 5 minutes. If you are using a package of Chamomile tea bags, then follow the directions as stated on the box. Honey or sugar can be added for taste. A good preventive measure is to start drinking Chamomile tea a couple of days before you are expecting your period, and then drink at least 2 cups everyday during your period. It also feels great if you use your hot mug as a hot compress for your lower abdomen while you are drinking it.
• Lady's Mantle : When ingested, lady's mantle is thought to help treat or prevent Menstrual Cramps.
• A combination of anise extract, saffron, and celery seed may help alleviate menstrual pain, according to a study published in the Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health in 2009.
• Vitamins and Minerals for Treating Menstrual Cramps : Foods and supplements that are rich in B-vitamins, calcium, magnesium, and zinc have been found to reduce the pain, bloating and other symptoms of menstrual cramps.
• In particular, Calcium is known to help maintain muscle tone as well as prevent cramps and pain. For most women, a daily intake of 800 mg of calcium is recommended, which can be found in 3 cups of milk. Increasing magnesium is also recommended, since it helps the body absorb calcium. Good sources of magnesium include beans, whole wheat, tofu, salmon, shrimp, nuts, and vegetables.
• Regular Exercise as a Natural Cure for Menstrual Cramps : Exercise is considered to be a natural way to reduce muscle tension and elevate one's mood. Therefore, maintaining a regular exercise program, including something as simple as walking for 20 minutes each day, can help reduce the severity of menstrual cramps.
• Ginger Root Tea to Relieve Menstrual Cramps : Ginger root has been found to help relieve the pain associated with menstrual cramps.
• fennel seeds are teeming with anethole and dozens of other phytochemicals, including phytoestrogens, estrogen-like compounds found in plants. These can help offset menstrual cramps that affect more than 50 percent of menstruating women.
• Southern Prickly Ash is used for menstrual Cramps.
• Tuina : A small study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 2008 shows that a combination of acupuncture and tuina may help alleviate menstrual cramps
• Magnesia Phosphorica (Homeopathy) : Women who suffer from sharp and sometimes severe cramps can get great help from using the homeopathic remedy of mag phos. It can help the body naturally alleviate the shooting pains and all of the other symptoms that are associated with them.
• Cinnamon is a spice that has been used for years to help get relief from digestive problems, and cramps due to menstruation are no different. It’s the anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties naturally found in cinnamon that give it the ability to give a woman relief from her cramps. www.wikiwel.com

Medical Disclaimer

This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any treatment or dietary changes.

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• PMS Tea - Cramp Bark Tea for Menstrual Cramps Relief + FREE Tea Infuser!
• SHOP Menstrual Cramp products

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Benefits Of Mint

Mints are aromatic, almost exclusively perennial, rarely annual herbs. They have wide-spreading underground and overground stolons and erect, square, branched stems. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs, from oblong to lanceolate, often downy, and with a serrated margin. Leaf colors range from dark green and gray-green to purple, blue, and sometimes pale yellow. 

This post is in honor of National Chocolate Mint Day celebrated every February 19 - National Herb Week / 1st week in May - 

In general use 

Mint / herbs are plants with savory or aromatic properties that are used for flavoring food, in medicine, or as fragrances. Culinary use typically distinguishes herbs from spices. Herbs refer to the leafy green or flowering parts of a plant (either fresh or dried), while spices are usually dried and produced from other parts of the plant, including seeds, berries, bark, roots and fruits.

Herbs have a variety of uses 

including culinary, medicinal, and, in some cases, spiritual. General usage of the term "herb" differs between culinary herbs and medicinal herbs; in medicinal or spiritual use, any parts of the plant might be considered as "herbs", including leaves, roots, flowers, seeds, root bark, inner bark (and cambium), resin and pericarp.

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Benefits Of Mint

• Digestion: Mint is a good appetizer and promotes digestion, due to its typical aroma. It also soothes stomach in cases of indigestion, inflammation etc. This aroma of mint activates the saliva glands in our mouth as well as glands which secrete digestive enzymes, thereby facilitating digestion. Thus it is extensively used in culinary.
• stomach disorders : repeated trials on the benefits of mint have established it to be very effective against stomach disorders ranging from irritable bowel to dyspepsia and cramps.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Instead of turning to dangerous Big Pharma solutions—like SSRIs—to fix the problem, try natural peppermint oil. One study found that peppermint oil eliminated pain completely in IBS patients. Another study revealed that it reduced IBS symptoms by at least 50% after only one month in 75% of subjects. You can find natural peppermint oil in capsules for daily use at your local health food store or online.
• Nausea & Headache: Again, the strong and refreshing aroma of mint is an excellent and quick remedy for nausea. Whenever you feel it, just smell the oil of mint or crushed fresh mint leaves or use any product with mint flavor, whichever is available near you, and it will be gone. In fact, many people keep mentha oil or mint flavored products with them to avoid nausea, particularly when they are traveling. Balms based on mint or simply mint oil, when rubbed on forehead and nose, gives quick relief in headache.Respiratory Disorders, Cough etc.: The strong aroma of mint is very effective in opening up congestion of nose, throat, bronchi and lungs, giving relief in respiratory disorders resulting from asthma, cold etc. As it cools and soothes throat, nose and other respiratory channels, it gives relief in cough too. Many balms are based on this property of mint. Unlike other inhalers which are based on aerosols, those based on mint are more effective and eco-friendly too.
• Asthma: Regular use of mint is very beneficial for asthma patients, as it is a good relaxant and gives relief in congestion. But, over dosage may irritate as well.
• Skin Care, pimples etc.: While mint oil is a good anti septic and anti pruritic, mint juice is an excelle,nt skin cleanser. It soothes skin, cures infections, itching etc., and is also good for pimples. Its anti pruritic properties can be used for treating bites of insects like mosquitoes, honey-bees, hornets, wasps, gnats etc.
• Female Sterility: Now, there is a mixed opinion about this. Some say that prolonged use of menthol may cause sterility and induce inability to conceive, by interfering with the production of ova and also killing these gametes, because of its germicidal and insecticidal properties. It is also heard that men who smoke menthol cigarettes are more likely to suffer from impotency than those who smoke normal cigarettes. It is not certain whether it is due the tobacco alone or mint has anything do with it. But menthol certainly has insecticidal properties. While another group suggests that mint may be used to treat sterility in females.
• Oral Care: This is a well known property of mint. Being a germicidal and breathe freshener, it takes care of oral health by inhibiting harmful bacterial growth inside mouth and by cleaning tongue and teeth.
• Cancer: Current researches show that certain enzymes present in mint may help cure cancer : Mint, specifically peppermint, contains a phytonutrient known as amonoterpene which has shown the capability to thwart the growth of tumors in the liver, breasts and pancreas in animals. It has also exhibited the capacity to protect the animals’ lungs, skin and colon against the formation of cancer.
• Vasoconstrictor : Mint contains chemicals that can help reduce bleeding by causing a narrowing of the blood vessels.
• Other Benefits: Besides its wide industrial use in food stuffs such as ice-creams, chocolates etc., alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, cosmetics, medicines, inhalers and mouth and breathe fresheners, it is used as a condiment and decorative item in culinary world-wide. Drinks and food-stuffs containing mint cools you off in summer. It is a good relaxant. One more peculiar property which is very much in contrary to its cooling and soothing effects is that it induces sweating if consumed in fever, thereby curing it. Mint juice can be applied on burns to heal and soothe them.
• It is also beneficial in rheumatism.
• It is also said to improve activity of the brain : Peppermint aroma improves memory and concentration.

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Special Precautions of Mint

• Peppermint oil can cause heartburn and digestive upset, and should be used with caution by people with heartburn, hiatal hernia, severe liver damage, gallbladder inflammation, or bile duct obstruction.
• Although rare, some people have experienced allergic reaction to topical application of peppermint.
• People with gallstones should consult a physician before taking oral peppermint preparations.
• The safety of peppermint oil in pregnant or nursing women isn't known.
• Peppermint oil shouldn't be applied topically to broken skin. Large amounts shouldn't be applied to skin.
• Peppermint tea can cause choking in children and infants due to the menthol.
• Pure peppermint oil is toxic at small doses. The pure essential oil should not be taken orally.
• Call your health practitioner if you experience headache, flushing, skin rash, muscle tremors, or other unusual symptoms.
• See also precautions of Linalool

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Medical Disclaimer

This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any treatment or dietary changes.

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Pam here! I love herbs you guys, and all things related to herbs. Everything from growing them to cooking with them to healing with them... I just love everything about it. That's why I wanted to do this post on the "Benefits of Mint." -So now that I have finished this article and about to hit the publish button..... I'm going to go outside and start raking around my mint plants I have growing in the back yard. I have about 4 different varieties that made it through the winter. (Peppermint, Spearmint, Orange Mint and Chocolate Mint.) Time for me to give them some love and attention. Have a great day!

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Shop Mint in Lawn and Garden Products Here
Shop Mint in Health and Personal Care Here
Healing Garden
Shop Healing Garden T-Shirts Here

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Outside Links / Resources / References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mint

www.wikiwel.com /  Thank you Smilies

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Mint_2014-06-01_00-53.jpg
http://deliciousliving.com/herbal/healing-powers-mint
https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/health-benefits-of-mint.html
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/275944.php
https://www.naturalnews.com/025823_mint_healing_oil.html
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List of Home Remedies for Anxiety

Anxiety is an an emotion characterized by an unpleasant state of inner turmoil...

Stress: In this day and age, people should be taught how to deal with stress from an early age. Because left unmanaged, stress is a negative force that can cause real damage in your life. If you constantly feel as though you’re unable to cope with your responsibilities and if you have a really hard time keeping up with your routine… that could become one of the major sources of anxiety in your life. Find ways to improve your ability to deal with stress, and your peace of mind will soon be reinforced.

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List Of Home Remedies for Anxiety:

• Adaptogenic herbs do not influence a person’s mood but rather optimize the function of the body during periods of high or chronic stress. Adaptogens regulate the synthesis of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol.
• Magnesium is a mineral that may be helpful in treating problematic anxiety and stress.
• Orange Essential Oil :Breathing in the scent of orange essential oil may help alleviate anxiety.
• Valerian is sometimes paired with other herbs such as lemon balm or skullcap to help overcome daytime anxiety.
• Chamomile
• Ginkgo Biloba : Anxiety impairs your mind’s ability to think clearly and make good decisions about your everyday life. By increasing blood flow to the brain and overall blood circulation throughout the body, gingko biloba helps refresh your state of mind and acts as a natural antidepressant. People anticipating tasks which require a solid focus and concentration are advised to take gingko biloba so as not to anticipate their challenges in an anxious mood.
• Licorice root contains a natural hormone alternative to cortisone, which can help the body handle stressful situations, and can help to normalize blood sugar levels as well as your adrenal glands, providing you with the energy necessary to deal with the stressful situation at hand. Some claim licorice stimulates cranial and cerebrospinal fluid, thereby calming the mind. You can take licorice root as a tea or a tonic.
• Kava kava can lift your spirit and make you happier by inducing a mild state of euphoria and sedation. Kava kava is very effective in the treatment of anxiety, working within a week of taking it daily. In medical applications, the herb is used in the treatment for women with post-menopausal depression. For people with sleep disorders, kava kava is a non-addictive herb which can work as a mild tranquilizer.
• Passionflower works as a non-drowsy, natural sedative that relieves intermittent stress, nervousness, anxiety and panic attacks. It won’t put your worries away by knocking you out or making you sleepy. You can find a certain equilibrium in passion flower by making you feel emotionally balanced. For those with bipolar disorder, it won’t give you a hyper, happy or excited feeling. Instead, passion flower will restrain your emotions from its range of extremes. If you have exaggerated emotions throughout the day (in which you go from being very happy to being very angry or sad), you may find passion flower to be a nice tea to drink after letting it seep in boiling water for 10 minutes.
• Ginseng is also known as a “brain food” as it improves concentration, thinking, and memory. It is also a supplement for added physical stamina. All these benefits contribute to its anti-anxiety properties as it revitalizes your body. Ginseng has many benefits and these include stimulant properties to reduce stress and enhance health. It can be used as a relaxant as it has tonic properties and can also help maintain emotional balance. Drink ginseng as a tea or take it in supplement form.
• St. John's wort
• Anshen Buxin Wan is a traditional Chinese Medicine to calm the spirit.
• Ziziphus jujuba shows promise in the treatment of anxiety, according to a preliminary study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2000. In tests on mice, the study's authors observed that compounds extracted from Ziziphus jujuba may have sedative effects.
• Virtual Reality Therapy

Medical Disclaimer: This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any treatment or dietary changes.

http://wikiwel.com/wikihealing/index.php?title=Anxiety

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What does the Bible say about Stress

Philippians 4:6 - Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made know to God.

John 14:27 - Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.

Psalm 55:22 - Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.

Psalm 118:5-6 - Out of my distress I called on the Lord; the Lord answered me and set me free. The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?

Proverbs 12:25 - Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.

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www.wikipedia.org
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Healing Powers of Eating Cherries

Cherries boast a laundry list of healing powers. For starters, they pack a powerful nutritional punch for a relatively low calorie count. They’re also packed with substances that help fight inflammation and cancer. As if that weren’t enough, in lab studies, quercetin and ellagic acid, two compounds contained in cherries, have been shown to inhibit the growth of tumors and even cause cancer cells to commit suicide — without damaging healthy cells.

This Article: Healing Powers of Eating Cherries... is posted in honor of: *National Cherry Month and *National Cancer Prevention month celebrated in February. *National Nutrition Month celebrated in March. *Gout Awareness Day celebrated May 22. and *National Arthritis Month celebrated in May. *Cherry Pie Day celebrated February 20. 

The benefits of Cherries are

• Cherries also have antiviral and antibacterial properties.
• Anthocyanin, another compound in cherries, is credited with lowering the uric acid levels in the blood, thereby reducing a common cause of gout.
• Cancer : In laboratory studies, the anthocyanins in Cherries are seen to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and stimulate their self-destruction, without affecting the healthy cells. Lab studies have also shown that the dietary fiber in cherries reduces cells’ exposure to cancer-causing substances, and healthy gut bacteria use the dietary fiber to produce short-chain fatty acids that protect colon cells from cancer. (Colon Cancer) Researchers have suggested that anthocyanins in cherries may reduce your risk of colon cancer, and that cherries may shut down the growth of cancer cells by depriving them of the proteins they need to grow. However, more research is required to validate the impact of cherry consumption in particular on cancer risk in humans. And as it may suggest, cherries may not be helpful in all types of cancers..
  
• Preventing cancer : Source of Cyanidin.
• Pain and Inflammation : Strong evidence from several studies has revealed that the anthocyanin compounds in Cherries offer powerful relief against pain and inflammation, with their strong antioxidant effects that counter oxidative stress following an inflammatory insult.
• Regular consumption may help lower risk of Heart Attacks and stroke.
• Less fat storage in the liver
• Lower blood sugar : reduce your chance of developing diabetes.
• lowers cholesterol and triglycerides : reduce your chance of developing heart disease.
• fight insomnia and slow down aging process.
• In Chinese medicine, cherries are routinely used as a remedy for gout, arthritis, and rheumatism (as well as anemia, due to their high iron content). Plus they’re delicious.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any treatment or dietary changes.

Special Precautions of Cherries

• Coumarin should not be taken while using anticoagulants.

http://wikiwel.com/wikihealing/index.php?title=Cherries

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The Health Benefits Of Dark Chocolate Are

Most of us already know February is National Chocolate Lover's Month / but did you know our calendar also celebrates more than 30 other chocolate related Holidays? Yep! It is so obvious we love chocolate all over the world. Because of that... I felt the need to post the benefits of Dark Chocolate for all to see~

January 27: National Chocolate Cake Day / List of Cake Holidays /
February 1: National Dark Chocolate Day

February 5: National Chocolate Fondue Day
February 28: National Chocolate Souffle Day
May 15: National Chocolate Day
July 28: National Milk Chocolate Day
September 22: National White Chocolate Day
October 28: National Chocolate Day

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The benefits of Dark Chocolate are

• Dark chocolate contains more flavanols and polyphenols (Catechins) than fruit juice. These antioxidants could prevent heart diseases and cancer. Cacao seeds are a 'Super Fruit' providing nutritive value beyond that of their macronutrient composition.
• By acting as a deoxidizing agent, the phenols prevent clogging of arteries, thus averting heart attacks. Flavonoids are the same chemicals found in red wine, which has also been found to lower LDL cholesterol (low density lipoproteins, “bad” cholesterol) levels as well as exert a protective effect against coronary Heart Disease. In addition to this, one-third of the fat content found in chocolate is in the form of stearic acid. Although it is a saturated fat, stearic acid exerts a neutral effect on cholesterol levels; that is, while it does not appear to raise cholesterol levels in some studies, it does not appear to lower them either.
• For people with Hypertension (High Blood Pressure), eating dark chocolate can significantly reduce blood pressure.
• Researchers have discovered that a dose of dark chocolate daily could protect patients from complications associated with cirrhosis of the liver. Liver cirrhosis increases the risk of bleeding from too much pressure in the veins that supply the organ with nutrients. Dark chocolate could protect from rupture of blood vessels that occurs from portal hypertension (high blood pressure in the liver).
• Research shows that the cocoa butter in the chocolate coats the teeth and may help protect them by preventing plaque from forming. It helps thwart mouth bacteria and stop dental decay.
• Chocolate may reduce Risk of Stroke.
• Contains resveratrol.
• Cocoa flavanols boost memory and cognitive function by improving insulin sensitivity.
• Cough : Theobromine, nutrient found in chocolate helps curb coughing by relaxing the nerve that triggers coughs.
• Tooth Decay : Researchers found that teeth treated with theobromine lose about 10 percent less calcium than teeth treated with fluoride when exposed to acids.

Special Precautions of Dark Chocolate

• Acrylamide : Cocoa beans are roasted to develop the characteristic chocolate flavor. During the roasting process, however, they are prone to developing high amounts of acrylamide.
• Eating too much of chocolate may cause health problems. The cocoa butter in chocolate does contain saturated fat, which can increase blood cholesterol levels, and high cholesterol may contribute to heart disease. Chocolate is high in calories and eating too much therefore make you fat, increasing your risk of heart disease. Over eating of chocolate can also lead to obesity.
• People prone to forming calcium oxalate stones (Kidney Stones (Renal Calculi)) may be asked by their doctor to limit or avoid certain foods if their urine contains an excess of oxalate: rhubarb, spinach, beets, swiss chard, wheat germ, soybean crackers, peanuts, okra, chocolate, black Indian tea, sweet potatoes.
• Despite the benefits that chocolate may have, it shouldn’t be an excuse to consume it at every meal! Chocolate should be consumed only in moderation, preferably in accompaniment with a healthy diet. It should also not be used to replace the other healthy sources of flavonoids in your diet, such as grapes and blueberries.

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Photo: http://wikiwel.com/wikihealing/index.php?title=File:Chocolate.png

Complete List Of Chocolate Holidays
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The Health Benefits of Tomatoes

A couple of posts back I posted a garlic tomato soup recipe in honor of Homemade Soup Day. Well I thought I would expand on that and post the health benefits on tomatoes as well. I love to know how foods heal the body don't you :)

Special Precautions of Tomatoes

• The tomato leaf is UNSAFE. In large amounts, tomato leaves can cause poisoning. Symptoms of poisoning may include severe mouth and throat irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, mild spasms, and death in severe cases.
• Potatoes, tomatoes, sweet and hot peppers, eggplant, tomatillos, tamarios, pepinos, pimentos, paprika, and cayenne peppers are classified as nightshade foods. A particular group of substances in these foods, called alkaloids, can impact nerve-muscle function and digestive function in animals and humans, and may also be able to compromise joint function.

The benefits of Tomatoes are

• If tomatoes are consumed in large amount, they help in improving the texture and color of the skin.
• tomatoes are good blood purifiers.
• They help in the cases of congestion of liver and also dissolve gallstones. They also protect liver from cirrhosis.
• Tomatoes act like a natural antiseptic and hence protect from infections. *Nicotinic acid present in tomatoes help in reducing blood cholesterol levels thereby preventing heart disorders.
• Vitamin K present in tomatoes help in preventing hemorrhages.
• Tomatoes contain lycopene. Lycopene is the red pigment present in tomatoes. It acts as a powerful antioxidant which fights cancer cells.
• According to the studies of American Medical Association, daily consumption of tomatoes decreases the oxidative stress in type 2 diabetes.
• Tomato helps in reducing the risk of developing hypertension.
• Vitamin A in tomato aids in preventing macular degeneration and night blindness, and in improving vision.
• Cataracts. Eating more than 3 servings of tomatoes each week may help to prevent cataracts.

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photo / https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tomate_2008-2-20.JPG

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Ezekiel Bread

Ezekiel Bread

Other Names : Essene bread, manna bread, sprouted grain bread, Tarwekiembrood

Ezekiel 4:9 says "Take also unto thee Wheat, and Barley, and beans, and lentils, and millet, and Spelt, and put them in one vessel and make bread of it."

Ezekiel bread was inspired by bible scripture about Ezekiel, who survived off this bread for two years while he was in the desert. The bread that was eaten by Ezekiel and the ancient Essenses was called "manna bread" which was heated by the desert sun and eaten uncooked. Claims are that the six grains and legumes, when sprouted and combined, create a protein that closely resembles the protein found in milk and eggs. The Food for Life website sells this bread and claims it to be "84.3% as efficient as the highest recognized source of protein, containing all 9 essential amino acids". This makes Ezekiel Bread a perfect choice for those who want to work more whole grains into their diet, and cut back on refined carbohydrates.

Special Precautions of Ezekiel Bread

Ezekiel bread is flourless but Not Gluten-Free : The bread contains naturally occurring gluten that is found in whole grains. Therefore, the bread is not considered Gluten-Free.

Benefits and uses of Ezekiel Bread are

The magic of Ezekiel Bread is the sprouted grains. Food for Life says this on their bread package, "We believe in sprouting the grains we use in our bread because sprouting is the best way to release all of the vital nutrients stored in whole grains.”

• Great source of vitamin C, vitamin B, and amino acids
• soaking uncooked grains and seeds so that they "sprout" and are edible, creates amino acids such as Lysine, which fights cancer and heart disease .
• The presence of these powerful antioxidants - and the absence of processed flour and sugar - gives Ezekiel bread its miraculous brain fortifying qualities.
• Great source of complete protein. In fact, it’s rated 84.3% efficient as a source of protein-comparable to milk or eggs.
• Because of the unique way it’s made, it’s more digestible than ordinary bread.

Ezekiel Bread Recipe

This is the bread that Ezekiel lived off of while he was in the desert for two years. It is supposed to be nutritionally complete. The recipe callls for grinding your own flour fron a variety of grains and dried beans. Yields 2 loaves. Ingredients:

• 2-1/2 cups wheat berries
• 1-1/2 cups spelt flour
• 1/2 cup barley
• 1/2 cup millet
• 1/4 cup dry green lentils
• 2 tablespoons dry Great Northern beans
• 2 tablespoons dry kidney beans
• 2 tablespoons dried pinto beans
• 4 cups warm water
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 (.25 ounce) packages active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons salt

Directions:
Measure the water, honey, olive oil, and yeast into a large bowl. Let sit for 3 to 5 minutes.
Stir all of the grains and beans together until well mixed. Grind in a flour mill. Add fresh milled flour and salt to the yeast mixture; stir until well mixed, about 10 minutes. The dough will be like that of a batter bread. Pour dough into two greased 9 x 5 inch loaf pans.
Let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until dough has reached the top of the pan.
Bake at 350 degrees for 45 to 50 minutes, or until loaves are golden brown.
Makes 24 servings

Nutrition information per serving:
Calories: 221
Total Fat: 5.4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 585mg
Total Carbohydrates: 40g
Dietary Fiber: 5.3g
Protein: 5.8g

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