It’s Entirely Natural - Articles

Research is constantly being done on the benefits of vitamins and minerals, but garlic is actually one of the most beneficial and natural healthy foods.

Garlic has been found to be beneficial to the human body in a number of different ways. Research has shown many positive results of regular eating of garlic. For example, garlic is a natural form of an antibiotic in a general way as opposed to focusing on specific types of bacteria or parts of the body.

Garlic is generally helpful for pain relief, particularly when pain is due to problems in the circulatory system, such as angina pain.

There appear to be no people with allergies to garlic, which means that it can be broadly prescribed for its health benefits. Research has also shown that garlic, and in particular garlic that is aged, has positive and intense antioxidant qualities which can help with a number of circulatory diseases and even cancers. It is antioxidants that help to protect the body against what is known as free radicals in the human body. Free radicals are ions with free electrons which can wreak havoc in the body, causing rapid aging and problems with the immune system.

Garlic helps to counteract these effects, but other plants in the same family can have a similar effect. For example, onions have a great effect, although a bit less than garlic. Shallots, green onions and some edible flowers have the same benefits as well.

Garlic is excellent for supporting the hard work of the immune system. Garlic also lowers cholesterol, helps to prevent heart disease and fights all sorts of funguses that try to invade the body.

There are two ingredients in garlic that are medicinal in nature and have excellent health benefits. The two ingredients are allicin and the diallyl sulphides. Allicin is the more powerful of the two. Allicin is not found in garlic as a plant, but is released when garlic is either crushed or chopped into fine pieces. The finer the dicing, the more allicin will be created, and therefore the stronger will be the medicinal benefits. Allicin is anti-fungal in nature and is commonly used to treat many infections of the skin such as athlete’s foot and nail fungus.

Diallyl sulphides also have benefits, but not as great as allicin. Diallyl sulphides have no anti-fungal properties, but can be of great benefit for blood circulation and help to keep the overall circulatory system working to the best of its ability. Diallyl sulphides are beneficial to the immune system because they give it a much-needed boast and they also help to lower the LDL bad cholesterol” in the body.

There are many ways to incorporate more garlic into your diet. Garlic works well with many meat and vegetables dishes and it can be included in soups, casseroles and stir-fries. If you are not well versed in cooking with garlic then check the public library, your local bookstore or the Internet for some recipes that are simple and easy for you to prepare. If eating garlic is not to your liking because of the odor then look for garlic in tablet or capsule form at your local vitamin store or grocery store.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Herbal Remedies.

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Tags: antioxidants, cholesterol, free radicals, garlic, Herbal Remedies, immune system

Are you approaching menopause? There are so many changes that happen to a woman as she nears this phase of her life.

In order to deal with these changes, it is important for a you to change your her diet to cope with the changes to your body. As we get older, our bodies require different foods. While this does not mean that you can no longer enjoy the foods you once did, you must learn how to incorporate foods with the necessary nutrients into your diet.

There are even some foods that can help you deal with your menopause symptoms. For example, choosing foods with high potassium content, like bananas, will help you balance water and salt retention issues. Dried fruits like figs and apricots can do the same thing. You may also want to add dark, leafy green vegetables to your diet like cabbage, broccoli, kale, spinach and collard greens. Try to increase the amount of “right” whole grains in your diet, like soy beans, brown rice, wheat germ, and lentils.

In addition to adding these foods to your life, you may also want to increase your consumption of foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Sardines, trout, tuna, salmon, and herring are just a few examples of foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids.

Studies have also shown that eating soy products can be quite beneficial to women going through menopause. Yogurt, tofu, soybeans, and soy milk can help in this area. Nuts work well with your new nutritional needs, so throw in some sunflower seeds, Brazil nuts, almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds.

Choosing the right kinds of oil is an important part of your diet planning: include flaxseed and canola oils.

Try seaweed—it’s great on rice or as an additional vegetable. Kimbu, Arame, Nori, and Wakame (available at your local health market in the seaweed section) are other helpful choices since they have naturally occurring chemicals and hormones that are very good at combating natural menopause symptoms.

These foods are not only helpful for menopause; they are part of an overall healthier diet. As we age, blood pressure rises, as does the risk of higher cholesterol levels. These diet changes can help us to improve our overall health. Instead of fighting with the side effects of prescription drugs, you can handle these risks by eating well and maintaining your ideal body weight, which can help your heart deal with its age as well. Remember that you don’t have to strictly hew to your new diet—just a tendency in these directions can improve your overall health.

There is little reason why you can’t have a slice of your birthday cake, or sneak a cookie in with your afternoon coffee once in a while. You might even try learning to bake with different kinds of ingredients. As you start working on your diet, you may not even notice the sheer number of things that have changed as you will be changing, too. You may feel better, have more energy, and have more concentration. These diet changes will help you to have fewer hot flashes, night sweats, heart palpitations, and other menopause symptoms.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Nutrition & Health.

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Tags: blood pressure, cholesterol, coffee, Menopause, Nutrition & Health, omega 3 fatty acids, sunflower seeds, whole grains

Whole grains are rightly touted as one of the best sources of fiber. Whole grains should be a part of every individual’s daily diet, as they are extremely beneficial to health for a multitude of reasons.

If you are not getting enough whole grains in your diet, or if you are still consuming white bread and pasta products made with refined flour instead of whole grain, then stop and think twice about what you are doing. To optimize your health, switch to whole grains and start reaping the benefits of doing so!

The absolute best sources of whole grains include such things as barley, oats, rye and wheat. Whole grains consist of the seeds of a plant and contained in it is the outer shell, the middle shell and the inner section. The outer shell is referred to as the bran while the middle section is the endosperm and the inner section is known as the germ.

Whole grains products whether they be bread, rice, pasta, cereal and other products are excellent sources of a number of vitamins and minerals including B vitamins, folate, chromium, copper, vitamin E, magnesium, iron, phosphorus and zinc. Folate is responsible for reducing the levels of an amino acid called homocysteine that exists in the bloodstream. Too much homocysteine in the blood has been shown through research studies to increase the risk of heart disease.

Whole grains are rich in lignans, phenolic acid and phytochemicals known as phytosterols. Research studies into the benefits of whole grains have discovered that that this “miracle food” is capable of decreasing the risk of a number of different cancers developing as well as type II diabetes. Whole grains are also effective at lowering cholesterol and decreasing the risk that an individual could develop heart disease and other circulatory problems. The benefits of whole grains do not end there. Whole grains are capable of decreasing inflammation in the body and therefore lowering the risk of heart disease and other heart complications.

A research study conducted at the University of Utah by Doctor Martha Slattery yielded the results that a diet rich in whole grains and in particular, high fiber cereals decreased the risk that rectal cancer will develop by approximately 31 percent. Further studies showed that a diet high in fiber, which is to say, more than 34 grams of fiber consumed on a daily basis, is capable of decreasing the chance of colorectal cancer by 66 percent.

Another study that was recently conducted at Tufts University by Doctor Nicola McKeown, showed that the participant of the study who ate at least three servings of whole grains on a daily basis were much less inclined to succumb to insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, both of which are likely to preceed type II diabetes and heart disease.

Whole grains provide both soluble and insoluble fiber to those who eat it regularly. The body requires both. A research study conducted by Doctor Qi and her colleagues at the Harvard School of Public Health with women participants showed the result that females who suffer from diabetes can benefit from eating a great deal of whole grains, cereal fiber and bran. When tested these women were found to have lower blood vessel inflammation which has been closely connected with circulatory disease.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Food Cures.

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Tags: barley, cholesterol, Fiber, Food Cures, magnesium, oats, phenolic acid, phytochemicals, type-2-diabetes, vitamins, vitamins and minerals, whole grains

As we continue in the Oscar ceremonies for healthiest foods, we have two awards for Best Supporting Actor: Berries and Whole Grains.

Berries are in a big category. They include strawberries, raspberries, cranberries, blueberries and blackberries. Berries are some of the most nutritious of all fruits. They are full of vitamin C, fiber, folate and phytonutrients.

Berries are excellent cancer fighting agents because they are full of antioxidants. Blueberries for example are believed to be higher in their antioxidant properties than are strawberries. Blueberries are useful in helping people as they age; short-term memory loss is lessened thanks to their healthy benefits.

Berries are very simple fruits to prepare. All you need to do is wash them thoroughly and either cut them up or eat them raw. Berries do not require peeling like other fruits, such as oranges and peaches.

Whole grains are full of B vitamins, as well as vitamin E, fiber, magnesium and iron. Whole grains are also very rich in antioxidants and contain some that are not found in fruits or vegetables.

According to the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, Americans should eat plenty of grains on a daily basis. Half of all grains eaten should be whole grains, which works out to be three to five servings of whole grains on a daily basis. Always use whole-wheat flour when you bake as opposed to white flour. White flour is refined and is very bad for the body. When you buy such foods as breads, pasta, biscuits and cereal always look for the word “whole” on the packaging. Another way to add whole grains to your diet is to eat more brown rice, wild rice, barley or quinoa. Try experimenting with different ways to add these whole grain products to recipes, such as adding barley or quinoa to soups and casseroles.

Apples got the Oscar nomination, but not the Oscar itself. They nevertheless turn in an excellent performance and should be counted in the top ten. Apples are rich in vitamin C, which helps the body to absorb other types of nutrients such as folate and iron. Apples contain a substance called pectin, which is used in jams and jellies and as a thickener for sauces. Pectin is similar to fiber in that it helps to decrease cholesterol and moderate the level of glucose in the blood.

Wheat germ is the “heart of the wheat seed” and it is filled with nutrients. Wheat does not have much taste, so you might want to sprinkle it on cereal, porridge or yogurt. Wheat germ can also be added to batter when you are baking cookies, muffins, biscuits or pancakes. Wheat germ is rich in folate, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, thiamine and zinc. Two tablespoons a day is enough to optimize its health benefits. Thiamine is particularly beneficial for the proper functioning of the nerves while phosphorous encourages the development of strong teeth and bones. Iron, folate magnesium and zinc are all minerals that support healing in the body and are essential fro the growth of children.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Food Cures.

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Tags: 2005 dietary guidelines for americans, antioxidants, blueberries, cholesterol, cranberries, Fiber, folate, Food Cures, magnesium, phytonutrients, strawberries, vitamins, whole grains, wild rice

And here we are at the Food Oscars, waiting for the envelope (please!) What are the healthiest foods you can eat, and how do they help you to live better?

Like movie actors, there are a lot of foods out there with some good qualities. But only a few foods contribute Oscar-quality nutrition and improve our lives. Some of these foods are so nutritious that they deserve an award—an Oscar—and a place on your plate.

“And the Oscars for the five healthiest foods go to …

• Salmon
• Soy
• Greens
• Berries
• Whole Grains

This article will focus on the first three.

Salmon is an excellent source of protein and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which lower the levels of LDL, or “bad” cholesterol in the blood, and increase the level of HDL, or “good” cholesterol in the blood. Salmon is a very versatile food that can easily be substituted for other types of meats such as beef or pork in many different recipes. The American Heart Association recommends that everyone eat at least two servings of fish on a weekly basis and it strongly recommends the consumption of fatty fish, like salmon. It is best to choose wild salmon, as it has more omega-3 fatty acids than farm-raised salmon. Most canned and frozen salmon is wild-caught, so they have the same benefits to your health.

Soy comes in many forms. Tofu is a soy product. It is full of all of the essential amino acids that the body requires. Soybeans are the only known vegetable sources that can make this claim. Soybeans are also very rich in the omega-3 fatty acids, the B vitamins, fiber, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron and zinc. A regular diet that includes soy is one that will lead to an overall low level of total cholesterol, as well as LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Soy is beneficial in preventing heart disease, and can help to reduce the incidence of osteoporosis, breast cancer and prostate cancer.

All vegetables are healthy but greens are especially healthy. The best greens to eat include chard (or “Swiss Chard”), collard greens, kale, bok choy, broccoli, asparagus, and green beans. These greens are all rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron and phytonutrients. Broccoli, for example, is beneficial in preventing the onset of heart disease, diabetes and a variety of cancers. If, like George Bush Sr., you don’t like the taste of broccoli, then eat it in recipes such as Chinese beef and broccoli or in a stir-fry with soy sauce. Another option is to eat broccoli raw but with other vegetables such as on a vegetable platter with a zesty dip for added flavor. Green vegetables are low in calories and very high in fiber. Foods that are high in fiber are also filling so that means you do not need to eat too large a helping in order to feel that you have eaten enough.

Greens can be eaten raw or cooked. If you eat them raw, you get the maximum health benefit—just make sure to clean them before you use them. Add raw greens to a salad or simply just snack on them and munch away! One of the best ways to prepare greens is to steam them, as steaming maintains much of the nutritional content—except for Vitamin C, which is heat-labile. Stir-fries are another healthy way to toss together your greens.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Food Cures.

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Tags: asparagus, b vitamins, broccoli, cholesterol, Fiber, Food Cures, magnesium, nutrition, omega 3 fatty acids, vitamin C, whole grains

There are a great number of foods that are healing in nature to the human body. Many of these foods may surprise you. This article will deal with a number of these foods, and discuss how they help the body.

Take the time to learn what foods are the most healing. If you already eat a vast array of healing foods then good for you- keep on doing what you are doing. If on the other hand your body could use a larger dose of healing foods then revamp your daily diet with some foods that can help to support health. These foods can also benefit you when you fall ill.

Artichokes are helpful in several ways. Artichokes can lower cholesterol, improve digestion and protect your heart from diseases. Artichokes can also help to protect your liver from being invaded by disease and they can stabilize your blood sugar if it tends to be on the high side.

Chili peppers are worth including in your diet if your throat is sore and achy and your sinuses are bothering you. Chili peppers certainly have a bite to them, but they are excellent for digestion and they help to fight cancer before they start. Chili peppers are extremely beneficial in boosting the function of the immune system.

Sometimes nuts are just what the doctor ordered. Peanuts help to protect against diseases of the heart, as they lower cholesterol levels and encourage weight loss. Peanuts are especially good for men as they help to combat prostrate cancer. Chestnuts are not just a Christmas time treat; they can be eaten all year long for their healing properties. Chestnuts are very protective of the heart they also combat a variety of cancers. These nuts also help to lower cholesterol and control blood pressure. Chestnuts are beneficial as well for individuals who are attempting to lose some weight.

If you enjoy walnuts then you are in luck! Walnuts have many healing properties. Walnuts help to combat a variety of cancers and they lower cholesterol and protect the heart against disease. Walnuts also aid in a sharp, clear memory and they are an instant mood-lifter.

Prunes are known to be good at preventing constipation, but they are also excellent at protecting the heart from disease, lowering cholesterol and boosting a person’s ability to remember these. Prunes are also believed to play an integral role in slowing down the process of aging, which is enough to make anyone smile.

Green tea is very therapeutic to the human body. This type of tea protects the heart, helps to prevent the onset of strokes and is excellent at combating cancer. As well green tea is an effective bacteria killer and it is helpful when it comes to losing weight.

If you like to take honey in your tea, or if you enjoy putting one of nature’s purest foods on toast, then you are being very smart. Honey is beneficial for the digestive process. It protects against the development of ulcers and encourages the healing of wounds. Honey is also effective at fighting a variety of allergies and it is an excellent energy booster.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Food Cures.

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Tags: artichokes, blood pressure, blood sugar, chestnuts, chili peppers, cholesterol, constipation, digestion, Food Cures, healing foods, honey, immune system, nuts, peanuts, prunes, walnuts, weight loss

There are many herbs and spices that are beneficial to keeping the body functioning at its absolute best. In order to remain as healthy as possible, you should consume as many herbs and spices as possible every day.

Turmeric is a spice that not everyone is familiar with. Turmeric is a yellow spice that is most often to be found in mustards manufactured in the United States. Turmeric is also a staple of many Indian dishes. Turmeric is a healthy spice that has anti-inflammatory properties, and also works as an antioxidant. These properties help turmeric to prevent the development of cancer. Turmeric goes to work to help get rid of the many symptoms that can accompany arthritis, as well as tendonitis, autoimmune disorders and a selection of other disorders that involve any degree of inflammation such as swelling in muscles or joints.

Fresh or dried peppermint is especially beneficial for a number of stomach ailments from heartburn to indigestion to nausea. Peppermint is very soothing to the stomach and entire digestive tract. Studies have shown that it is able to help rid sufferers or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) of many of their symptoms. Peppermint has been shown to be effective in slowing the growth of many types of bacteria and fungi and it is effective as well for those who suffer from respiratory problems, such as asthma and allergies. Peppermint can be brewed as a tea or it can be purchased in pill form. Individuals who suffer on a regular basis from upset stomach or nausea would benefit from the consumption of peppermint in one form or another.

Cayenne pepper, also known as chili pepper, red pepper or paprika is a fiery type of pepper that is used to help several organs. Pepper has been found beneficial in moderating many types of stomach ailments, such as stomach aches related to any number of causes, gas and many different types of heart problems. Cayenne pepper is effective at lowering cholesterol and it improves the circulation of blood and is believed to be beneficial in preventing circulatory disease. Cayenne pepper decreases the possibility that the blood will clot, which can help to prevent deadly blood clots forming, especially after surgery. Cayenne pepper is also beneficial when a person is suffering from a toothache.

The advantages of cayenne pepper do not end there. Cayenne pepper has been shown through research studies to be effective at alleviating migraine headaches. For migraine sufferers the cayenne cream is applied directly to the inside of the nose. Be aware that if you do this you should apply a very small quantity and some people’s noses are too sensitive for cayenne. Cayenne pepper can help to improve blood circulation. It can also be applied to the skin topically as a way to alleviate pain connected with rheumatoid arthritis.

The active ingredient in cayenne pepper is capsaicin and this ingredient has found to be effective for those suffering from Fibromylagia. As a cream cayenne can be applied to painful muscles and joints but be aware that sometimes cayenne cream causes a burning sensation on the skin and if it gets into the eyes it can cause some pain.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Food Cures.

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Tags: antioxidants, cayenne pepper, cholesterol, Food Cures, herbs and spices, mint, peppermint, turmeric, whole grains

When it comes to fast, reliable weight loss supplements, Hoodia Gordonii is the media darling. This ungainly succulent was originally used by the Sans Bushmen of the Kalahari to suppress appetite during times of food scarcity. Because it grows in one of the harshest regions of the world, Hoodia Gordonii comes with an air of mystery as well as weight loss benefits. Although extracts from this succulent can effectively suppress appetite, it has been a challenge to make Hoodia Gordonii readily available.

Hoodia Gordonii is a succulent that grows primarily in Angola , Botswana , Namibia , and South Africa . This plant looks just like a cactus, complete with spines and stem clusters. Because of its large flowers, it is designated as a succulent. Hoodia Gordonii and its related species tend to grow in gravel and shale. They also require the intense desert heat to grow and flourish.

The rights to grow and export this succulent are zealously guarded by the Sans Bushmen, their lawyers, and the African nations in which the plant originates. As an example, Hoodia Gordonii is a protected species in Botswana , Namibia , and South Africa . In many cases, wild harvesting is not allowed, and farming and export rights are severely limited. Currently, it is believed that all Hoodia Gordonii supplements are derived from wild plants.

Although there are no exact statistics on the amount of illegal trade, it is estimated to be very high. Because Hoodia Gordonii is a “dietary supplement” it is not regulated the way prescription and over the counter medication are. Therefore, there is very little that can be done to control purity issues.

Contrary to popular belief, this specific plant is not endangered. There are several other succulents and cactus plants that look just like it. These in turn, are on the verge of extinction. Unfortunately for these other species, the high demand for Hoodia Gordonii causes them to be collected by mistake. Thus, species that have Red List Endangered Species Protection are at more risk than ever before.

Because of the difficulties associated with obtaining licenses to collect and export Hoodia Gordonii, this succulent is a prime target for poachers and other unsavory characters. These criminals have been known to harvest the wrong plants and pass them off as Hoodia Gordonii. This affects endangered species as well as create the potential for plants entering the supplemental food chain that are useless for weight loss. In some cases, these plants may be poisonous to humans, and do much more harm than good.

All of these complexities make extracts from Hoodia Gordonii difficult to obtain. This problem is compounded by the length of time required to produce a mature plant. It takes about five years for Hoodia Gordonii to flower. Before that time, it is not suitable for harvesting. While there may be farms dedicated to commercial growth of Hoodia Gordonii, it may be a few years before they affect the market.

The entire plant is not required for appetite suppression. Rather, it is one single molecule, P57 that creates the desired effect. P57 is found in the flesh of the plant, but not within the roots, spines, or flowers. The rights to all products developed as a result of studying Hoodia Gordonii are also fully under the control of the Sans Bushmen. Unfortunately, P57 is very difficult to isolate from the plant extract. It is also purported to be difficult to synthesize this molecule. It is not likely a cheaper, synthetic product will be created in the near future.

In the area of commercial development, Phytopharm (royalties go to the Sans Bushmen and their lawyers) has held the patent on P57 since 1995. They, in turn, sub-licensed to Pfizer for further development. While Pfizer spent millions of dollars to obtain this sub-license, they soon aborted the efforts to refine Hoodia Gordonii extracts. They were able to reproduce the appetite suppressant qualities from Hoodia Gordonii extract. At the same time, they also found that isolation of P57 from other molecules that cause liver damage was extremely difficult.

There are several prescription drugs on the market (like anti-cholesterol medications) that cause damage to the liver. It is not clear at this stage how the liver damage from the Hoodia Gordonii trials compares to that of trials run on animal subjects during the development phases of many other drugs. After Pfizer aborted the project, Unilever Pharmaceuticals took up the task of developing this dietary supplement, and they are still working on it.

While Hoodia Gordonii is only available on a limited basis, there is no question that it is an effective appetite suppressant. Obesity is a major issue in almost every nation. As manufacturers establish reputable supplies, it is only a matter of time before reliable products become readily available. Until then, care needs to be taken in choosing a Hoodia Gordonii vendor.

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Lucinda Mathers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Herbal Remedies.

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Tags: bushmen of the kalahari, cholesterol, Herbal Remedies, obesity, weight loss supplements

When we think of healing foods, we don’t always consider herbs and spices. They are the little extras that we often put on our food to give it more seasoning and to make it tastier for everyone at the table.

Put the saltshaker away when you’re cooking, as too much salt in the diet can spell disaster for your circulatory system and kidneys. Reach instead for healthy herbs and seasonings to jazz up your next meal and help make you healthier to boot!

Herbs and spices have been used for centuries to treat a variety of health and medical conditions. Examples of these include inflammatory conditions, infections, autoimmune disorders, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and nausea. There is no doubt that when it comes to herbs and spices there are plenty of healing properties you should get to know better.

Garlic has long been used as a folk remedy for many ailments. Garlic is a member of what is called the allium family as it contains a substance called allicin. Other members of this family include onions and scallions.

Research into the benefits of garlic has shown that it is a strong preventative agent against stroke and heart disease. Garlic is also instrumental in lowering high blood pressure. Further studies have shown that garlic is very close to a natural form of antibiotic. Garlic is full of substances that help to detoxify the body and are able to disperse carcinogens that are building in the system.

A number of research studies have shown that a diet rich in garlic helps to lower the total cholesterol rate of an individual, including the bad cholesterol or LDL while at the same time it raises the good HDL cholesterol in the bloodstream. Garlic also fights a great number of bacteria and viruses and therefore helps to prevent infections.

Garlic is associated with a decreased risk of stomach cancer. Research in Italy and China support garlic’s beneficial effects. Garlic is best eaten in its raw state. The best way to benefit from garlic is to eat it raw: cut up, sliced up or chopped.

Ginger is a very odd looking substance. It can be found in every produce department, and should be used more for its beneficial effects on health. Ginger works well to calm an upset stomach. Ginger is particularly good to take before embarking on a road trip if you are prone to motion sickness. Ginger snaps and ginger bread are also effective at calming an upset stomach. Pregnant women are often encouraged to eat ginger to reduce the nausea from morning sickness.

Ginger is also believed to be helpful in the fight to lose weight, as it works as a natural dietary aid. The reason it works is that ginger helps to boost the rate in which the body burns calories. This benefit has been borne out in studies conducted by researchers in Australia. When coupled with other spices including rosemary, thyme, oregano and pepper, ginger is excellent in regards to its antioxidant properties and therefore is proficient at fighting cancer.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Food Cures.

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Tags: antioxidants, carcinogens, cholesterol, Food Cures, garlic, healing foods, herbs and spices, high blood pressure

Chocolate is not just a tasty treat. Chocolate is actually healthy for you in small quantities. Researchers have spent many years studying this delicious food (what a fun thing to research!) These researchers have found that dark chocolate, which is bitterer in taste than milk chocolate or other forms of chocolate, has a number of benefits to health. Dark chocolate, red wine and green tea have all been shown to share many of the same health benefits.

Antioxidants are to be found in dark chocolate, and one of the benefits of antioxidants is their cancer-fighting properties. Other health benefits that have been connected to dark chocolate include

• a tremendous improvement in the work of the arteries and blood vessels; the lowering if high blood pressure,
  a lower incidence of deaths related to heart disease;
• improved efficiency of the endothelial cells;
• better digestive process and increased stimulation of the kidneys.

Flavonoids found in chocolate have been found to help people who suffer from anemia, a poor appetite and kidney stones. Dark chocolate is instrumental in fighting bad cholesterol in the blood vessels and it lowers blood pressure and greatly improves the circulation of blood from the heart to the brain and then back again.

Dark chocolate is believed to set off a biochemical effect in the brain that helps to clot the blood much in the same way as aspirin does if a person suspects that they are suffering a heart attack.

Dark chocolate contains the minerals copper and magnesium. These minerals are necessary for a normal functioning heartbeat and for stable blood pressure.

There are potential downsides: be aware that chocolate is fattening, and it contains caffeine so never overdo a good thing!

Not just any dark chocolate will do. In order to get the dark chocolate, experts say that the very best source is the dried extract of roasted cocoa beans. If you cannot consume chocolate this way or if it is not for you then the second best option is to eat a small chocolate bar that is approximately 1.6 ounces. This is just enough chocolate to keep the heart as healthy as possible and to keep the blood vessels opened wide, allowing blood to freely circulate.

There are many dark chocolate bars on the market but one of the best in terms of high cocoa content is the Dove Dark chocolate bar. Even eating a few tiny pieces, such as three or four squares broken off from a chocolate bar can be of tremendous benefit to the heart.

Keep in mind that eating any type of chocolate is not enough to keep the heart “heart healthy.” What you need to eat specifically is dark chocolate as dark chocolate has the most cocoa in it and the most flavonoids.

Before it was discovered that cocoa contained healthy substances called flavonoids, chocolate manufacturers used to destroy this entire important ingredient in the processing. Now that the health benefits are known, they work hard to maintain an estimated 95 percent of it after processing.

Why just dark chocolate? Because milk chocolate, white chocolate, and other forms of chocolate do not have the same level of flavonoids. If you find dark chocolate too bitter then consider buying a dark chocolate bar that contains almonds or raisins or both to add a little more variety to the flavor.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Food Cures.

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Tags: almonds, antioxidants, caffeine, cholesterol, cocoa beans, dark chocolate, flavonoids, Food Cures, green tea, magnesium, red wine