Ginger is good for Menopause!

Ginger is a herb but is often known as a spice, with a strong distinct flavor that can increase the production of saliva.

Medicinal properties of ginger has been known to have throughout history. For centuries, ginger has been used as an effective cure when it comes to common cough and cold. Even when the symptoms become severe, using this as tea will alleviate sore throat, itchiness, coughing and even blocked nasal passages.

The extract of ginger is also known to have natural analgesics and sedative properties. It also has carminative properties. That is why, for people who are experiencing dyspepsia or stomach ailments, ginger is an effective remedy. The health benefits of ginger for the digestive and gastrointestinal tract do not end there yet. The components that ginger has, such as shogaols and gingerols, can resolve vomiting and nausea.

Here is a list of few health benefits of ginger:

antiemetic/antinausea

anticlotting agent

antispasmodic

antifungal

anti inflammatory

antiseptic

antibacterial

antiviral

antitussive

analgesic

circulatory stimulant

carminative

expectorant

hypotensive

increases blood flow

promotes sweating

relaxes peripheral blood vessels

Cancer

The University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found out through their research that ginger can also destroy ovarian cancer cells. Aside from that, it also gives plenty of benefits for people who are suffering from colon cancer. The University studied how ginger could hinder the progression of colorectal cancer cells.

 

 

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Heart

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death among American men. Ginger may help to prevent heart disease, as it is a good source of vitamin B-6, magnesium and potassium. While high vitamin B-6 intake lowers your risk of heart disease, magnesium and potassium can help to lower your blood pressure.

Diabetes

Diabetes affects nearly 12 percent of men over the age of 20 in the United States. As part of a healthy diet, ginger may play a role in the treatment of diabetes due to its . The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that manganese and magnesium content these minerals help to regulate blood sugar in both diabetic and non-diabetic men, with blood concentrations of these minerals lower than average in people with diabetes. As such, ginger may be essential to preventing both the development of and complications that may arise from diabetes in men.

Sex and Neurological

Ginger content includes potassium, magnesium, vitamin B-6 and manganese. These minerals are essential to neurological health. By helping to form and trigger the release of the sex hormone testosterone, manganese is vital to your sex drive and sperm production. While the University of Maryland Medical Center states that it is rare to develop a manganese deficiency, having insufficient amounts in your diet may lead to infertility and erectile disorders.

Menopause

According to an article published in "Social Science & Medicine," ginger has been used to treat the symptoms of hot flashes and night sweats associated with menopause. If these symptoms are bothering you, ginger can be infused with hot water and drunk as a tea.
 
People have been experiencing the many health benefits of ginger for ages; it is time that you see it as more than just an ingredient for your dishes, but also as a powerful natural remedy.
Read more

 

Buying tip:

Fresh ginger should be plump and crisp, not shrunken or fibrous. Store unpeeled ginger in the vegetable crisper of your fridge for up to two weeks. Freeze leftovers for up to six months: Break it into 1- to 2-inch pieces and defrost as needed. Dried ginger has a warmer, more pungent flavor than fresh; don't substitute one for the other

Check out the following videos for how and what to make with ginger, courtesy of http://allrecipes.com

Ingredients and instructions

Watch video tips and tricks

• Bison and Veggie Kabobs

• Pickled Ginger Asian Pear Coleslaw

• Veggie and Sausage Skillet Pizza  
•  
• Fast Salmon with a Ginger Glaze

• Ginger Kiss Cocktail

• Pumpkin Ginger Cupcakes

• Ginger Carrots and Dates

• Homemade Black Bean Veggie Burgers

• Veggie Shepherd’s Pie

• Garlic: Fresh Vs. Powdered

• Types of Cooking Oil

• How to Peel and Chop Onions

• Types of Salt

Enjoy and stay healthy. Lets medicine our food and don't become the laboratory mice for the pharmaceutical companies.

To be Continue...

Other super food links:

Seeermust, the Garlic Sauce

Paleo Diet Cookbook

Diabetic-safe and Guilt Free Desserts

A bulb of garlic a day, keep diseases away

For generation, people are not only using garlic because of its medicinal value, but traditionally, people have rubbed their bodies with it, buried it besides their bodies in coffin, worn it around their necks, draped it on household walls and even prayed to it. This great bulb has a lot of benefits, because no other plant has been held out for so long as a cure for so many human ailments. That's why garlic has been considered as the "Wonder Drug". Garlic has been used medicinally for many years for treating bites, tumors, ulcers, snakebite, wounds, headaches, heart diseases, cancer, pimples, measles and many more. It also prevents infections such as the common cold, cough because of its Anti-bacterial, Anti-fungal and Anti-viral property.


For the last 4000 years of human history, Garlic, also known as Allium sativum, has been both cherished and reviled, both sought for its healing powers and shunned for its pungent after effects. From miracle drug to vampire repellent to offering for the gods, this unassuming plant has had an undeniably important place in many aspects of human history, and today enjoys a renewed surge in popularity as modern medicine unearths the wonders of this ancient superfood.

There is an interesting story in the ancient Hindu manuscripts about the origin of Garlic. It is said that when Lord Garuda, the giant eagle and personal carrier of Lord Vishnu, ran away after snatching the pot of “nectar – the elixir of life” from the hands of Lord Indra, the king of Heaven, some drops of nectar spilled from the pot and fell in the Himalayan region of the earth. The place where the spilled drops of nectar had fallen, a small plant grew in which all the divine properties of the nectar were found and it was named as “Rason”. The name “Rason” means King of Rasas as this plant possessed five out of six tastes (Rasa). It is also believed to such an extent that this Rason possesses wonder properties to magically correct all physiological malfunctionings of the human body. This Rason is also known as Lahsun in hindi, Garlic in English, Allium sativum in Latin, which is used worldwide as a natural medicine as well as a taste builder for food items.

Garlic Facts

Garlic has germanium in it. Germanium is an anti-cancer agent, and garlic has more of it than any other herb. In lab tests, mice fed garlic showed no cancer development, whereas mice that weren't fed garlic showed at least some. In fact, garlic has been shown to retard tumor growth in human subjects in some parts of the world.
Another benefit of garlic is it helps regulate the body's blood pressure. So whether you have problems with low or high blood pressure, garlic can help equalize it.
Garlic helps strengthen your body's defenses against allergies; helps loosen plaque from the artery walls; helps regulate your blood sugar levels; and is the best choice for killing and expelling parasites such as pin worms from the human body.
In addition to all these health benefits, garlic is packed with vitamins and nutrients. Some of these include protein, potassium, Vitamins A, B, B2 and C, Calcium, Zinc and many others.
In a 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, allicin powder was found to reduce the incidence of the common cold by over 50%.
Garlic and onions are toxic to cats and dogs.
Garlic can thin the blood similar to the effect of aspirin.

Garlic- and the Immune System.
Not surprisingly the presence of all these antioxidants in garlic have a very positive effect on the immune system in general and can therefore protect the body against all types of bacterial and viral attacks. Research has recently even shown it to have an inhibiting effect on MSRA which is currently reeking such havoc in U.K. hospitals.
Garlic also acts as a good cold medication, decongestant and expectorant. It is a surprisingly good source of vitamins C, B6 and the minerals selenium and manganese all of which have long been associated with immune system boosting as well as other benefits.

Garlic-Promotes Weight Control.

Allicin is the most potent substance found in garlic and this has been shown to not only lower blood pressure, insulin and triglyceride levels in laboratory animals fed a sugar rich diet, but also to prevent weight gain.
A study published in the American Journal of Hypertension reported that animals who developed high insulin levels, high blood pressure, and high triglycerides were given either allicin or served as a control.
Although all of the animals consumed the same amount of food, weight rose only in the control group whereas the animals who were being supplemented with allicin maintained stable weight or a slight decrease was actually noticed.
The researchers concluded that allicin may be of practical value for weight control.

Note: Drinking lemon juice or eating a few slices of lemon will stop bad garlic breath

Garlic and Cancer

Current research has shown that a number of readily available foods such as garlic and onions that make up a healthy diet, actually have a major impact on cancer prevention. The protective effect of garlic seems to be greater than that of onions, even though onion consumption has been shown to reduce the risk of stomach cancer. These cancer fighting foods seem to have the ability to interfere with the development of cancerous tumors.
The October 2000 issue of the American Journal of Nutrition had a summary of a number epidemiologic studies which showed that people who consumed cooked or raw garlic on a regular basis compared to those that ate little or none had about half the risk of stomach cancer and one-third less risk of colorectal cancer.
This remarkable little bulb now tops the American National Cancer Institute's list of potential cancer-preventative foods. It contains multiple anticancer compounds and antioxidants, more than 30 at the last count, which such powerful compounds as quercetin, diallyl sulphide,allin and ajoene. These have the ability to block cancer causing agents such as nitrosamine and aflatoxin which have been specifically linked to stomach, lung and liver cancer. Garlic's ajoene and allicin have also been shown to retard cancer cells as a type of natural chemotherapy.
The Iowa Women's Health Study discovered that women who included garlic in their daily diet had lower risks for colon cancer.
Meat cooked at high temperatures (well done to burnt) can produce carcinogenic (cancer producing) chemicals and research has recently discovered that when meat is cooked with garlic this effect is limited.
The ten best groups of anti-cancer foods include: berries and citrus fruits, cruciferous vegetables, garlic and onions, green tea, omega 3 essential fatty acids, olive oil, tomatoes, soy products, red wine and dark chocolate.

Garlic- and the Immune System.
Not surprisingly the presence of all these antioxidants in garlic have a very positive effect on the immune system in general and can therefore protect the body against all types of bacterial and viral attacks. Research has recently even shown it to have an inhibiting effect on MSRA which is currently reeking such havoc in U.K. hospitals.
Garlic also acts as a good cold medication, decongestant and expectorant. It is a surprisingly good source of vitamins C, B6 and the minerals selenium and manganese all of which have long been associated with immune system boosting as well as other benefits.

Here are some recipe for garlic:

Roasted Garlic Guacamole with Help-Yourself Garnishes

Ingredients:

Guacamole

• 6 clove(s) (large) garlic, unpeeled
• 6 ripe medium avocados
• 1/2 cup(s) coarsely chopped fresh cilantro, loosely packed
• 2 tablespoon(s) fresh lime juice, plus more if desired
• 1 teaspoon(s) salt

Garnishes

• 3/4 cup(s) Mexican queso fresco, queso añejo, salted pressed farmer's cheese, firm goat cheese, mild feta, or romano, finely crumbled or grated
• 3/4 cup(s) toasted pumpkin seeds (see Tips & Techniques)
• 3/4 cup(s) sliced pickled jalapeños
• cup(s) crumbled crisp-fried bacon or 3/4 cup coarsely crumbled chicharrón (Mexican crisp-fried pork rind)
• 1 bag(s) (16-ounce) large, sturdy tortilla chips

---

Directions

1. To prepare guacamole: Place unpeeled garlic in a small dry skillet over medium heat; cook, turning occasionally, until soft and blackened in spots, 10 to 15 minutes. Cool, then slip off the skins; finely chop. Scoop avocado flesh into a large bowl. Add the garlic, cilantro, and lime juice to taste. Coarsely mash everything together. Season with salt. Transfer to a serving bowl and place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the guacamole. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. To set up the guacamole bar: Scoop garnishes into small serving bowls and put the chips in a large basket or bowl. Encourage guests to spoon a little guacamole on a chip and top with garnishes that appeal.

 

Smoky “Roasted” Garlic & Red Pepper Soup (Raw)

Ingredients:

4 large red peppers, deseeded & chopped
1 cup chopped white onion
6 cloves garlic, grated
1/2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh rosemary
2 tomatoes, sun blushed & chopped
4 Tbsp sunflower oil
8 strawberries
4 Tbsp of honey
Himalayan pink sea salt & fresh black pepper to taste

Direction:

Step 1 Mix red pepper, white onion, garlic, rosemary, sun blushed tomato, sunflower oil and Himalayan sea salt well together in a bowl (it is much better if you can mix all the ingredients with your hand, which will enable all the flavors to mix well). Cover and set aside in a warm area, or you can even leave it under the sun for about 1 hour to marinate.
Step 2 Now blend all the marinated ingredients, strawberries and honey together in a blender for about 2 minutes until nice and smooth.
Step 3 Adjust the taste with more Himalayan sea salt if needed, transfer this into two of your favorite bowls, and season with fresh black pepper on top. Serve immediately.
Step 4 Optionally, you can add some fresh warm water and make this soup

Health Benefits:
1. This is low in calories, carbohydrates and proteins, but the majority of the calories come from the fats.
2. Excellent source of vitamin A, a natural antioxidant that reduces acne, and promotes healthy, smooth and radiant skin.
3. Excellent source of vitamin C, a natural water soluble antioxidant. It enhances the body’s immune system, increases the elasticity of skin and blood vessels, and prevents bruising of the skin.
4. Good source of vitamin E, a natural antioxidant that scavenges the free radicals that oxidize fats, preserve the integrity of cell membranes, and protect our body against free radical damage.
5. Moderate source of vitamin K. It promotes the mineralization of bones and thus strengthens bones.
6. Good source of vitamin B6 and folic acid. These are essential in the synthesis of hemoglobin in the blood.
7. Folic acid also prevents the accumulation of an intermediary metabolite called homocysteine in the blood. Elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood are associated with heart attack, stroke and peripheral vascular disease. Thus, this soup also promotes heart health.

Nutritional Facts:

Each serve of this dish provides the following nutrients –
Calories: 14% (274 Cal); Total Fats: 24%; Saturated Fats: 7%; Carbohydrates: 12%; Proteins: 5%; Fiber: 22%; Potassium: 15%; Manganese: 15%; Vitamin A: 113%; Vitamin C: 394%; Vitamin E: 44%; Vitamin K: 18%; Vitamin B6: 26%; Folic acid: 25%.

Other super food links:

Seeermust, the Garlic Sauce

Paleo Diet Cookbook

Diabetic-safe and Guilt Free Desserts

Lemon is the mother of all fruits!

One of the most common fruit trees. Both savory and sweet dishes benefit from the tangy, refreshing flavor of lemons. The zest, the juice, and the fruit (sliced or quartered) can be used. Lemon juice poured over other fruits prevents discoloration of the flesh when exposed to air. The juice can be used as a substitute for vinegar if a lighter-flavored vinaigrette is desired.

 

Lemon contains vitamins like vitamin B, riboflavin and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium as well as proteins and carbohydrates. Daily consumption of lemon water provides a number of health benefits like:

1. Good for stomach Lemon can help relieve many digestion problems when mixed with hot water. These include nausea, heartburn and parasites. Due to the digestive qualities of lemon juice, symptoms of indigestion such as heartburn, bloating and belching are relieved. By drinking lemon juice regularly, the bowels are aided in eliminating waste more efficiently. Lemon acts as a blood purifier and as a cleansing agent. The intake of lemon juice can cure constipation. Lemon juice acts as a liver tonic and helps you digest your food by helping your liver produce more bile. It is also thought to help dissolve gallstones.
   
   
2. Excellent for Skin Care Lemon is a vitamin C rich citrus fruit that enhances your beauty, by rejuvenating skin from within and thus bringing a glow on your face. Daily consumption of lemon water can make a huge difference in the appearance of your skin. It acts as an anti-aging remedy and can remove wrinkles and blackheads. Lemon water if applied on the areas of burns can fade the scars. As lemon is a cooling agent, it reduces the burning sensation on the skin.
   
   
   
3. Aids in Dental Care Lemon water is used in dental care also. If fresh lemon juice is applied on the areas of toothache, it can assist in getting rid of the pain. The massages of lemon juice on gums can stop gum bleeding. It gives relief from bad smell and other problems related to gums.
   But caution  must be taken to not over use, since it can cause sensitivity and discomfort.
   
   
4. Cures Throat Infections Lemon is an excellent fruit that aids in fighting problems related to throat infections, sore throat and tonsillitis as it has an antibacterial property. For sore throat, dilute one-half lemon juice with one-half water and gargle frequently.
   
   
5. Good for Weight Loss One of the major health benefits of drinking lemon water is that it paves way for losing weight faster, thus acting as a great weight loss remedy. If a person takes lemon juice mixed with lukewarm water and honey, it can reduce the body weight as well.
   
   
6. Controls High Blood Pressure Lemon water works wonders for people having heart problem, owing to its high potassium content. It controls high blood pressure, dizziness, nausea as well as provides relaxation to mind and body. It also reduces mental stress and depression.
   
   
7. Assist in curing Respiratory Disorders
   Lemon water assists in curing respiratory problems, along with breathing problems and revives a person suffering from asthma.
   
   
8. Good for treating Rheumatism Lemon is also a diuretic and hence lemon water can treat rheumatism and arthritis. It helps to flush out bacteria and toxins out of the body.
   
   
9. Reduces Fever Lemon water can treat a person who is suffering from cold, flu or fever. It helps to break fever by increasing perspiration.
   
   
   
10. Acts as a blood purifier The diseases like cholera or malaria can be treated with lemon water as it can act as a blood purifier.
    

Lemon Gelato Recipe

On a recent trip to Italy, I became addicted to gelato. My favorite choice was lemon because Italian lemons have an intense flavor. This recipe brings back memories of our vacation.
 Courtesy of Gail Wang, Troy, Michigan


 Prep: 30 min. Process: 20 min. + freezing

Yield: 8 Servings  50

Ingredients

• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup sugar
• 5 egg yolks, lightly beaten
• 3 tablespoons grated lemon peel
• 3/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream

Directions

• In a small heavy saucepan, heat milk to 175°; stir in sugar until dissolved. Whisk a small amount of hot mixture into egg yolks. Return all to the pan, whisking constantly. Add lemon peel. Cook and stir over low heat until mixture reaches at least 160° and coats the back of a metal spoon.
• Remove from the heat; strain. Stir in lemon juice. Cool quickly by placing pan in a bowl of ice water; stir for 2 minutes. Stir in cream. Cover and refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
• Fill cylinder of ice cream freezer two-thirds full; freeze according to manufacturer's directions. Transfer to a freezer container; freeze for 2-4 hours before serving. Yield: 1-1/2 quarts.

Nutritional Facts 2/3 cup equals 361 calories, 26 g fat (15 g saturated fat), 213 mg cholesterol, 40 mg sodium, 31 g carbohydrate, trace fiber, 4 g protein. 

Check back frequently for more food medicine tips

Other super food links:

Seeermust, the Garlic Sauce

Paleo Diet Cookbook

Diabetic-safe and Guilt Free Desserts

Turmeric - Natural Pain Killer!

Ancient Indians understood turmeric to be the physical essence of the Divine Mother. Modern science now confirms that it has therapeutic properties relevant to well over 500 health conditions, and may bestow on those who take it, protection from many common causes of suffering.
Many people are familiar with turmeric as a traditional Middle-Eastern spice, but few know of its medicinal virtues.
Turmeric is highly valuable for the influence it exerts on the digestive system and the liver. Turmeric improves digestion and reduce gas and bloating. Turmeric improves the body's ability to digest fats.

Turmeric is recommended for chronic digestive weakness
Turmeric is anti-inflammatory to the mucous membranes, which coat the throat, lungs, stomach and intestines.

Here just 15 of its benefits:

1. Natural antiseptic and antibacterial properties to keep the infection away from cuts and burns.
2. Natural liver detoxifier- is it possible that if we believe liver to be the seat of anger than turmeric can help release that anger? Hmmmm.
3. May prevent and slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease by removing amyloyd plaque buildup in the brain.
4. Majorly powerful anti-inflammatory that works as well as many anti-inflammatory drugs but without the side effects.
5. Has shown promise in slowing the progression of multiple sclerosis in mice.
6. Natural pain killer. Yay more of this!
7. Helps manage weight, and aid in fat metabolism
8. A staple in Chinese medicine for helping lift mood in cases of depression
9. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it is a natural treatment for arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
10. Studies have shown that turmeric can boosts the effects of chemo drug paclitaxel and reduces its side effects.
11. Accelerates wound healing and repairing of damaged skin
12. Can help internally and topically with psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.
13. Wowzers does it help soothe upset stomach
14. Helps to facilitate protein digestion
15. A natural preventative against flu viruses.

Turmeric is an antispasmodic to smooth muscles so it reduces digestive and menstrual cramping. For women who experience monthly menstrual cramps, try consuming turmeric extract or bitters twice daily for two weeks prior to expected menstruation. It should reduce the severity of cramps, if not alleviating them completely. Of course, diet and lifestyle have a profound influence on the menstrual cycle, but turmeric is a great addition
Another use of turmeric is for the treatment of skin cancer or pre cancerous skin conditions. Both topical and internal use are encouraged.

Tips on how to introduce raw turmeric to your diet:

Turmeric Tea
(single serving)
1 tsp cinnamon
pinch of clove
pinch of nutmeg
tsp fresh ginger (optional)
As much turmeric as you can handle! Start with a teaspoon and go up from there.
1-2 cups of water
Raw honey to sweeten
Mylk sub of choice (I went with fresh coconut milk but almond and hemp would both be delicious)

Slow and steady oven method

• Simmer herbs and water together for 10 mins
• Strain out and add honey and mylk

Fast and furious blender method

• Boil water in your kettle and add to blender (a blender with gradual speed increase will reduce likely hood of pressure from steam of boiled water exploding out of your belnder)
• Add in spices and blend until smooth and unified in colour.
• Strain out tea and add mylk and honey.

Turmeric Sauce or Seermust

This is a product that I recommend to everyone, as I have done it to my close family members and freinds. My passion for this product is an endless love. Since my introduction to this sauce, I have been healthy like a horse. I really urge you to read for yourself.
Here is the link http://seermust.com


To Be Continued...

Other superfood links:

Seeermust, the Garlic Sauce

Paleo Diet Cookbook

Diabetic-safe and Guilt Free Desserts

Raisin Prevents Macular Degeneration

What are raisins?Raisins are dehydrated grapes that have been sun-dried or heat-dried. Even though very sweet grapes are selected for making raisins, most store-bought raisins contain artificial sweeteners to make them even sweeter. You can avoid these artificially produced ones by making sure you purchase organic and naturally dried raisins, if available.

See all 9 photos

 

 

Nutrients found in raisins

Raisins are highly nutritious and contain powerful anti-oxidants and nutrients.

Minerals
Magnesium: For proper nerve and muscle functioning and conversion of blood sugar to energy.
Calcium: Builds bones and teeth, for proper function of muscles, the heart and nervous system.
Iron: Used to build red-blood cells and for repairing worn out cells.
Potassium: For regulation of heart beat and maintaining blood pressure.
Phosphorus : For strong bones and teeth.
Zinc : Eliminates cholesterol deposits and necessary for manufacture of enzymes.
Copper : Facilitates iron absorption and promotes protein metabolism.
Fluoride: Hardens tooth enamel and dentine.

Vitamins
Folate: Forms red blood cells and important in blood circulation around the body.
Niacin : Aids normal functioning of tissues especially the gastrointestinal tract and the skin tissues.
Riboflavin : Aids in releasing energy to body cells and enables break down of fats
Choline : Keeps cellular membranes functioning properly.
Vitamin C: Important for the formation of collagen and is necessary for absorption of iron into the body.
Vitamin B-6: Prevents water retention and enables conversion of carbohydrates to energy
Vitamin K: Necessary for normal blood clotting and synthesis of proteins found in plasma, bone, and kidneys.

 

Raisins as a Snack

High in fiber and bursting with anti-oxidants, raisins are a better snack than most.

One cup of raisins contains 3g of soluble fiber. The soluble fiber together with the polyphenols found in raisins both interfere with cholesterol absorption.

Source: Monterey Smiles

Raisins health benefits:

Anti-Cholesterol

Did you know that raisins are completely cholesterol-free? In fact, raisins are known to have anti-cholesterol compounds that help combat the bad cholesterol in the body. A cup of raisins is said to contain about 4g of soluble fiber. It is this soluble fiber that fights the bad cholesterol and disposes of it in the liver to be eliminated. Raisins also contain anti-oxidants known as polyphenols that suppress the enzymes responsible for absorbing cholesterol into the body. In so doing, raisins help lower total cholesterol levels in the body.

Brain Food

One of the interesting health benefits of raisins is that it is a great brain food. Raisins contain high amounts of boron that is an essential mineral for a well-functioning brain. 100mg of raisins contains 2.2mg of boron, which is a potent brain-boosting mineral. Boron improves concentration, hand-eye co-ordination and enhances memory. Additionally, boron also helps promote the functioning of important minerals such as calcium and magnesium.

Blood Pressure

Raisins not only help purify blood and eliminate toxins but they also help reduce high levels of blood pressure. There is a significant amount of Potassium, a potent mineral said to be able to help lower blood pressure, in raisins. Potassium also helps keep in check the sodium levels in our body. Too much sodium in the body is one of the root causes of high blood pressure.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is simply a disease that affects the bones, causing them to become weak and unhealthy. Most women above the age of 40 are likely to suffer from osteoporosis. Adding raisins to your diet may offer more benefits than you may think. Since raisins contain a significant amount of calcium, they may help keep the bones strong and deflect bone disease and osteoporosis.

Acidiosis

Acidiosis is defined as an excessively acid condition of the body fluid and tissues. Studies show that eating raisins regularly may naturally help check your body levels of acidity and prevent them from rising. This is because raisins contain alkaline compounds that help neutralize the high levels of acidity in the body.

 

A cup of raisins contains 10g of dietary fiber. Dietary fiber is essential in the body for regulating bowel movement, thereby preventing constipation.

Source: Arex

Constipation

The high fiber in raisins are very beneficial and help your system function smoothly because they promote regular bowel movement. A cup of raisins contains about 10 g of dietary fiber. Granted, dietary fiber is not nutritious but it is important to help keep our bodies free from harmful toxic substances by cleansing the bowels. Regular bowel movement is very important for healthy living and also prevents various health problems from acne to colon cancer.

 

Healthy Smile. Raisins contain healthy vitamins that help cleanse teeth and destroy bacteria.

Source: Wellness Reviews

Dental Health

Contrary to the saying that raisins give you cavities, the chewy texture and rich fiber in raisins actually helps cleanse your teeth and promote strong gums. Oleanolic acid, an active phytochemical in raisins helps destroy and suppress growth of streptococcus mutans, a type of bacteria responsible for causing tooth decays.

Black raisins. Raisins, being very rich in iron, are potent blood purifying foods.

Anemia

When it comes to anemia, the best foods to eat up on are those rich in iron namely, rich red meats and dark leafy vegetables. But did you know that raisins may actually contain more iron than some of the iron rich vegetables? A half cup of iron contains 2 mg of iron and this is more than 5% of the recommended dietary allowance in both men and women. Additionally, raisins contain powerful anti-oxidants that help detoxify blood and exterminate harmful toxins that are responsible for many health ailments.

Eat raisins for healthy and clear eyesight

Eyesight

The powerful anti-oxidants found in raisins may help prevent macular degeneration in old age. The macular is gradually worn out throughout life by constantly being exposed to oxygen free radicals present in the air. It slowly weakens and eventually fails to function normally. Studies have shown how raisins can reverse the negative effects that free radicals on the macular. The polyphenols contained in raisins are very powerful in defeating oxygen stealing free radicals and thereby protect your eyes from disease.

 

Here are some recipe for you:

 

• Cinnamon Raisin Cheesecake Puffs
• Cinnamon Raisin Nut Rolls
• Cinnamon Swirl Raisin Bread
• Coffee Cake
• Cranberry Raisin Fruitcake
• Fig Raisin Spice Loaf
• Fresh Apple Raisin Bars

 

To be Continued...

 

Other superfood links:

Seeermust, the Garlic Sauce

 

Paleo Diet Cookbook

 

Diabetic-safe and Guilt Free Desserts

Dates won't raise blood sugar!

Dates are the fruit of the date palm tree and are grown primarily in dry, arid regions, such as the Middle East and parts of California. Though dates are often used as an ingredient in sweets and other recipes, they offer several nutritional benefits when eaten fresh and pitted.

 

Won't Raise Blood Sugar

One of the main reasons people avoid eating dates is the belief that they will raise their blood sugar levels, but studies have shown that belief to be erroneous. The May 28, 2011, issue of "Nutrition Journal" reports a study in which date consumption was tested on diabetics. The study shows that while dates contain high amounts of natural sugars, they are actually a low-glycemic index food and did not significantly raise blood sugar levels after they were eaten. If you are diabetic, speak to your doctor before adding dates to your diet so that you can monitor your blood sugar levels and determine how dates affect you personally. 

Increase Fiber Intake

Dates are loaded with fiber. According to the USDA National Nutrient Database, just one pitted date contains 1.6 g of fiber, or 6 percent of the recommended daily intake. Fiber is known for its ability to help lower cholesterol and fight and prevent obesity, heart disease and colorectal cancer. The November 2008 issue of "Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition" reports that the fiber in dates is primarily insoluble fiber, which binds to fat and cholesterol and carries it out of the body.

Lower Triglycerides

Though the fiber in dates has the ability to lower cholesterol levels, researchers at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology in Israel report that dates have better results at lowering triglyceride levels, which is another type of fat in the blood. A study published in the Sept. 9, 2009, issue of the "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry," shows that consuming dates may lower triglycerides by 8 to 15 percent. Reducing your triglyceride levels will lower your risk of hardening of the arteries, heart attack and stroke, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Increase Vitamin and Mineral Intake

Adding dates to your diet delivers vitamins and minerals that are necessary to maintain optimum health. The primary vitamins in dates are the B vitamin family, with vitamin B-6 topping the list. The B vitamins help with the metabolism of food and the formation of new blood cells. Other vitamins include K and A. Dates are an excellent source or minerals, with potassium in the No. 1 spot. Copper, manganese, magnesium, calcium, phosphorous, iron and zinc complete the mineral profile. The body only needs small amounts of minerals, but if it is depleted of any one, it can be disastrous to your health. Snacking on dates can help you build up your body's mineral stores.

 

Carbohydrates

Dates are a good source of energy. Up to 80 percent of the date flesh is sugar that the body can easily access for energy. Fresh dates have a somewhat lower percentage of sugar because the contain more moisture than dried dates, and the sugar in dried dates is more concentrated, but fresh dates are still a good source of carbohydrates.

    

Fiber

Dates are also a food source of fiber, according to Dr. Al-Farsi. For every 100 g of dates, approximately 8 g is fiber. Most of the fiber is of the insoluble type, meaning that its major health-promoting effect is to add bulk to stool and help food move through the intestinal tract.

Low Fat

Another health benefit of dates is that they are low fat. In 100 g of dates, only a fraction of a gram is saturated fats. Saturated fats can raise serum cholesterol and lead to blood vessel and heart disease, so eating foods low in these types of fats is part of a healthy diet.

 

Here are some recipes:

 

 

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Cucumber juiceis is beneficial to diabetics

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) is a vegetable that belongs to the gourd family, Cucurbitaceae, which includes gourds, melons, and squashes.
Cucumber is one of the oldest cultivated vegetables and is believed to be originated in northern India.
Cucumber is often regarded as a healthy food because it is low in calories and fat. Cucumber also contains many vitamins and minerals that make them a healthy choice for cooking and snacking. Here are 15 health benefits of cucumber:

1. Keep body hydratedCucumber has 96% water content that is more nutritious than regular water, which helps in keeping the body hydrated and regulating body temperature. It also helps in flushing out the toxins from the body.
2. Skin care
   
   The high water content, vitamins A, B & C and the presence of certain minerals like magnesium, potassium, and silica make cucumbers an essential part of skin care. Facial masks containing cucumber juice can be used for skin tightening. Ascorbic acid and caffeic acid present in cucumbers can bring down the water retention rate which in turn diminishes the puffiness and swelling under the eyes. Cucumber skin also can bring relief to the skin caused by sunburn or windburn.
3. Fight cancers Cucumber are known to contain lariciresinol, pinoresinol, and secoisolariciresinol – three lignans that have a strong history of research in connection with reduced risk of several cancer types, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, uterine cancer, and ovarian cancer.
4. Control Blood Pressure Cucumber juice contains a lot of potassium, magnesium and fiber that work effectively for regulating blood pressure. This makes cucumber good for treating both low blood pressure and high blood pressure.
5. Beneficial for teeth and gumsCucumber juice is also beneficial for people with teeth and gums problems, especially in cases of pyorrhea. Cucumber is a good source of dietary fiber and this fiber massage in the teeth and gums.
6. Aid digestionDigestive disorders like acidity, heartburn, gastritis and even ulcers can be cured by the daily consumption of fresh cucumber juice. The high water content and dietary fiber in cucumber are very effective in driving away the toxins from the digestive system and hence aid digestion. Daily consumption of cucumbers can be regarded as a remedy for chronic constipation.
7. Promotes Joint healthCucumber is an excellent source of silica, which known to help promotes joint health by strengthening the connective tissues.
8. Treat tapewormsCucumber seeds are used as a natural remedy for treating tapeworms. Bruised cucumber seeds mixed with water are also effective in the treatment of swellings of the mucous membranes of the nose and the throat.
9. Nail care
   
   The high silica content of cucumber also helps to prevent splitting and spoiling of nails of the fingers and toes.
10. Relieve gout and arthritis painCucumber is rich in vitamin A, B1, B6, C & D, Folate, Calcium, Magnesium, and Potassium, when mixed with carrot juice, they can relieve gout and arthritis pain by lowering the uric acid levels.
11. Cures diabetesThe cucumber juice has been found to be beneficial for the diabetic patients. This vegetable contains a hormone needed by the cells of the pancreas for producing insulin.
12. Reduces cholesterolResearchers found that some compound called sterols in cucumber may help reduce cholesterol levels.
13. Stimulate hair growthCucumber contains silicon and sulfur and thus a regular intake of cucumber can help promote healthy hair growth. For best results, mix cucumber juice with the juices of carrot, lettuce or spinach.
14. Acts as a diureticThe water content of Cucumber acts as a diuretic. It encourages the elimination of waste products from the body through urination. Regular intake of cucumber helps to dissolve bladder or kidney stones.
15. Aid in weight lossDue to its low calorie and high water content, cucumber is an ideal diet for people who looking for weight loss.

When buying cucumbers, choose the ones that are firm to touch and dark green in color. Do not buy overly matured or yellow colored as they are prone to contain more insoluble fiber and mature seeds. Go for organically grown cucumbers to get a rich taste and nutrients content.

Here are some recipes:

Cucumber-Mint Gimlets

 Directions

Peel, seed and chop 6 English cucumbers. Puree, then strain through a sieve into a bowl, pressing to extract the juice. Chill. Combine 1/3 cup lemon juice, 8 sprigs mint and 1/4 cup sugar in a pitcher; muddle with a wooden spoon. Stir in 2 cups gin, the cucumber juice and some cucumber and lemon slices. Divide among 6 to 8 ice-filled glasses. 

Cucumber Cups With Creamy Salmon Whip

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese
• 1 tablespoon nonfat or 1% milk
• 4 scallions, white parts only, sliced
• 4 ounces thinly sliced smoked salmon
• 1/4 cup whipped cream cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Freshly ground white pepper
• 2 large English cucumbers
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives

Directions

Process the cottage cheese and milk in a food processor until smooth. Add the scallions, salmon, cream cheese, lemon juice and a pinch of white pepper and process until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate at least 1 hour or overnight.

Cut the cucumbers into 3/4-inch-thick rounds, discarding the ends. Using a small spoon, scoop the seeds and some of the flesh out of each round to form a small cup.
Fill each cup with about 2 teaspoons of the salmon whip and sprinkle with the chives. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve, up to 1 hour.
Per serving (3 pieces): Calories 60; Fat 3 g (Saturated 1 g); Cholesterol 10 mg; Sodium 190 mg; Carbohydrate 5g; Fiber 1 g; Protein 5 g

 To Be Continued ...

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