FEBRUARY 5, 2025 ZINC

This essential mineral takes part in a myriad of metabolic functions, reinforcing the immune system, aiding in cellular division, and even assisting in the sense of taste and smell. Do you take zinc or eat any foods that contain zinc ?

There is one type of shellfish that contains zinc. Oysters are one of nature’s most potent sources of zinc. Just a serving of six medium-sized oysters can exceed an adult’s daily zinc requirements. Beyond their incredible zinc content, oysters are a source of high-quality protein, vitamins, and other minerals Not many individuals eat oysters today, due to our water’s contamination

Legumes, including lentils, chickpeas, and beans, are a cost-effective and widely available source of zinc. They are particularly important in vegetarian and vegan diets as meatless sources of this essential mineral. In addition to being high in zinc, legumes are rich in fiber and protein,

Most nuts of not all ar3e packed with antioxidants. Brazil nuts are a sourc e of selenium ( which is excellent for the thyroid ) Nuts are a crunchy, satisfying snack known for their heart-healthy fats, fiber, and a considerable amount of zinc. Cashews, almonds, and pine nuts, in particular, stand out as the top contenders for their zinc content

While not as high in zinc as some animal products or nuts, dark leafy greens such as spinach and kale provide a non-negligible amount of this mineral. They are especially significant for vegetarians and vegans, who need to rely on plant-based sources for their zinc intake

So eat these foods for their zinc content.

Until tomorrow…

FEBRUARY 4, 2025 LOWER YOUR BP

Hypertension or high blood pressure is a risk factor for developing Cardiovascular Disease It is the silent killer in many instances. You must lower your blood pressure. Some individuals do not conventional medications as beta blockers, like metoprolol, ACE inhibitors, like enalapril and even calcium channel blocking drugs like amlodipine. Others will try to change some lifestyle as eating better, hydrating with more water , exercising and taking some herbal medicine as hawthorne. There are even some foods that can lower your blood pressure

I prefer giving some new food suggestions to many of my patients. One is Dark Chocolate. Dark chocolate, particularly varieties containing at least 70% cocoa, has been linked to blood pressure reduction. The flavonoids present in dark  chocolate help dilate blood vessels, promoting better blood flow and reduced blood pressure. Enjoying a small piece of dark chocolate daily can beneficial to your heart health.

I love to melt 1- 2 squares of dark chocolate over blueberries for a nighttime desert. Blueberries are a powerhouse of flavonoids, particularly anthocyanins, which have been shown to decrease blood pressure significantly. These small but mighty fruits enhance the elasticity of blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing pressure.

And if you are not a fan of blueberries, use bananas. Bananas are a standout source of potassium, which is essential for blood pressure control. This nutrient helps balance sodium levels in the body and eases tension in the walls of blood vessels. Regular consumption of bananas can contribute to lower blood pressure readings

The other foods I discuss to lower blood pressure include oats, garlic and beets. There are also many botanical herbs that lower blood pressure in addition to garlic. There is Hawthorne berries, hibiscus tea and motherwort

Until tomorrow…

FEBRUARY 3, 2025 THE BENEFITS OF HONEY

Honey has been a go-to remedy for centuries, offering natural healing and wellness. Packed with antioxidants, it supports your body’s overall health As a beekeeper/apitherapist I promote all products of the beehive— royal jelly, propolis, bee venom, pollen and honey

There are numerous research articles and studies touting the different properties of bee products. Honey is great for wound healing, especially burns. One of the oldest natural benefits of honey is the promotion of wound healing. Since ancient Egypt, honey has been used in the treatment of wounds and burns. Known for its antimicrobial properties, honey helps to kill bacteria, and reduce inflammation

Last night I used fresh ginger, freshly squeezed lemon and my own honey for my sore throat One of the most well-known benefits is its ability to aid in cough suppression and soothe sore throats There is another concoction I make called an oxymel- I cut up red onion, and garlic. I chop finely and place in a jar with my raw honey. I allow to sit for 2 days and strain the onions and garlic. I now have a remedy for cold/coughs and the flu. I have a teaspoon twice a day—morning and bedtime

It is also for allergies. Eating raw, local honey may help your seasonal pollen allergies. Some studies suggest that eating local honey may reduce congestion and ease some allergies. This may be due to the pollen that gets collected by the bees and mixed with honey in small amounts so that your body can train on how to deal with the allergen.

Have 1 teaspoon nightly ( It boosts your own melatonin )

Until tomorrow…

JANUARY 30, 2025 APPLES

“An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” this humble fruit has been recognized for its health benefits I love apples. I always have I have apples on my counter every day of the year— not only in the Fall and Winter

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

Apples are good for the immune system One way that apples boost your immune system is by increasing the production of white blood cells. Apples are great for the digestive system apples contain pectin, a type of soluble fiber that feeds the beneficial bacteria in the gut. These bacteria are essential for many aspects of health, including immune function and digestion. Apples also contain quercetin, an antioxidant that has anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation is crucial in many digestive disorders as Celiac, Crohn’s and Ulcerative colitis

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

So eat an apple a day

Until tomorrow…

JANUARY 29, 2025 CHRONIC INFLAMMATION

Inflammation, often a protective response by the body to injury or infection, can become a persistent and harmful condition when it lingers without a clear cause. Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous health issues, including heart disease, arthritis, and certain cancers.

Chronic inflammation is often silent, going unnoticed for years and contributing to the development of diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. The causes of chronic inflammation can be numerous, including  lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, and exposure to toxins. When it comes to exposure to toxins I use specific testing as Mosaic Labs to test for mycotoxins and various chemicals as p[esticides/herbicides. I also test for heavy metals using Doctor’s Data by provocative urine or hair analysis ( from the Connetcicut office )

There are many foods which are anti inflammatory. Berries to me are the best choice. The benefits of berries extend beyond just reducing inflammation. They also contribute to overall health by improving immune function and protecting against heart disease and other chronic conditions

I also like etaing fish high in omega 3 . Since you have to be careful about certain fish, you want to eat walnuts which are high in omega 3. You can also get omega 3 from an alae source You also should consume leayf greens , nuts and seeds

The three herbs I use for inflammation are tumeric, ginger and garlic. Spices and herbs, such as  turmeric, ginger, and garlic, are not just culinary delights but also potent anti-inflammatory agents. Turmeric, for instance, contains curcumin, a compound that has been extensively studied for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Ginger and garlic, too, have compounds that reduce inflammation

Until tomorrow…

JANUARY 28, 2025 A ENVIRONMENTAL ALLERGIES

An allergic reaction is a difficult thing to deal with, from simple symptoms like a runny nose to more intense reactions such as hives. Some people treat their allergies with allergy pills or allergy shots Today there is subingual immunotherapy (SLIT) Ir has been around for a long time but not many health care practitioners use this method. Based on Ig E blood tests, sublingual can be made to the allergen As many as 20 + different allergens can be placed in one bottle.

The best natural remedy is to completely avoid the allergen. If you know what you are allergic to, whether that’s dust, pollen, or animal dander, you should avoid that allergen. This seems easier than said A lot of time there is a runny and stuffiness. Try a Neti Pot You can make a neti pot wash with a 3:1 mix of iodide-free salt and baking soda. You can make a large batch of this and store it in an airtight container. To make the wash, mix one teaspoon of the mixture with eight ounces of lukewarm water that is either boiled and cooled, distilled, or bottled.

There are two supplements that I like. These two anti-inflammatory allergy treatments act as a natural antihistamine to reduce intense allergic reactions.  Quercetin helps to balance and control your histamine levels. You can take it as a  supplement. You can also eat it several times a day through apples, red wine, teas, and onions Butterbur is an extract, also known as Ze 339, that reduces the histamines in your blood.

The one herb I use is Stinging Nettle Leaf . t is coming with Quercetin in a product called Natural D Hist. I also regular tell the patient to take Natural Raw Honey from the area which does help with allergic symptoms.

Yes you should always vacuum regularly, and et an appropriate air filter but you should also consider integrative approaches to environmental allergies

Until tomorrow…

JANUARY 27, 2025 COCONUT OIL

 Coconut oil is a natural  oil that has many benefits for the body. It is known to help improve the immune system, brain function, and heart health and increase energy and metabolism.

Coconut oil can help boost metabolism because it is a “medium-chain fatty acid,” meaning it metabolizes differently from other fat types. The body absorbs the coconut oil and turns it into energy rather than stored as fat. In addition to boosting metabolism, coconut oil has other benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving cholesterol levels, and helping to prevent heart disease.

Coconut oil contains a compound called medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs are absorbed differently than other fats, and they can be used by the body for energy more quickly. Coconut oil can also help to improve brain function in people with Alzheimer’s disease It also has been studied and has been shown to reduce seizures.

Perhaps the best use for coconut oil is for the skin Coconut oil has a variety of health benefits, including improved skin health. Coconut oil is rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, which are beneficial for the skin. Antioxidants help protect the skin against damage from free radicals, while essential fatty acids help keep the skin hydrated and improve its elasticity. In addition, coconut oil can help to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin.

Oil pulling or oral health is excellent. Coconut oil is effective in improving oral health. A recent study showed that coconut oil could reduce plaque formation and gingivitis in patients with periodontal disease. Coconut oil can help to improve oral health because it contains lauric acid, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties

Until tomorrow…

JANUARY 23, 2025 CHIA SEEDS

How many of you take chai seeds in their diet ? Chia seeds are a source of alpha linoleic acid which we all need These tiny seeds pack a powerful punch of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fibers, positioning them as a superfood

Chia seeds are renowned for their remarkable content of omega-3 fatty acids, essential fats that are pivotal for maintaining heart health and enhancing cognitive functions. These fats are not synthesized by the human body and must be obtained from dietary sources Chia contain minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. This combination supports a myriad of bodily functions from bone health to muscle repair.

There are ,any antioxidants in chia seeds. These antioxidants, including quercetin, kaempferol, and chlorogenic acid, play a crucial role in promoting skin health, reducing inflammation, and preventing chronic diseases.

I have seen many individuals use chia seeds as a source to keep their weight stable. Chia seeds contribute significantly to weight management through their high fiber content, which enhances satiety and reduces appetite. This makes chia seeds an excellent addition to the diet of individuals aiming to lose or manage their weight.

Just for the metre anti aging benefits you should ingest chia. Chia seeds are beneficial for skin and hair health due to their high content of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. These nutrients help maintain healthy skin by enhancing the skin’s barrier function, reducing dryness, and preventing premature aging.

Add Chia seeds to your dietary regimen

Until tomorrow…