JANUARY 3, 2023 MAINTAINING A GOOD BLOOD PRESSURE

Maintaining healthy blood pressure is crucial for overall well-being, yet many are unaware of how certain foods can subtly influence it. Today blood pressure classifications have changed If your diastolic blood pressure reading ( the bottom number ) is 85, you are considered hypertensive. Certain foods can influence your blood pressure

You need to avoid processed meats. Processed meats are a staple in many diets, but they’re also a significant source of hidden sodium, a known contributor to high blood pressure. Items such as ham, sausages, and bacon are not just rich in flavor; they’re packed with salt to enhance taste and preserve the product. This high sodium content can increase blood pressure, posing a risk to heart health. I can recall eating these processed meats as a child Regular consumption of these meats has been linked to chronic conditions like heart disease and stroke. It’s not just the amount of sodium that’s concerning but also the frequency of consumption

It would be nice to have a warm soup on these upcoming cold days Canned soups, often perceived as a convenient and healthy meal option, can be surprisingly high in sodium. This hidden sodium turns a seemingly wholesome choice into a potential risk for those monitoring their blood pressure. The contrast is stark when comparing homemade soups to their canned counterparts I rather prefer a good homemade soup over any canned soup.

Lastly you would think sugar substitutes are better than white sugar. These are even worse at times. In addition to the growing cancer concern with these substitutes , you must watch for potential risks of increasing your blood pressure. Artificial sweeteners, often found in foods and beverages, are marketed as a healthier alternative to sugar, but their impact on blood pressure is a subject of growing concern. These sweeteners, such as aspartame, sucralose, and saccharin, are prevalent in many ‘diet’ or ‘light’ products, offering sweetness without the calories. However, recent studies suggest that these substitutes may have their own health implications, including potential effects on blood pressure.

So what I am saying, Eat wisely…

Until tomorrow…

JANUARY 2, 2024 A NEW YEAR ... NEW STUDIES

In 2022, Robert Krikorian, PhD, and his team published research that found adding blueberries to the daily diets of certain middle-aged populations may lower the chances of developing late-life dementia. He said the current research into strawberries is an extension to the blueberry research. The addition of blueberries into your dietary lifestyle decreases the probability of dementia The same can be said of ‘ strawberries ‘ “Both strawberries and blueberries contain antioxidants called anthocyanins, which have been implicated in a variety of berry health benefits such as metabolic and cognitive enhancements

While more research is needed, Krikorian said the strawberry treatment may have improved cognitive function by reducing inflammation in the brain. The study groups need to be larger and more studies small and large need to be published.

We know that anthocyanins do play a pivotal role in the health of the human body. The studies are there. I would rather you get the anthocyanins from food as in blueberries and strawberries rather than take a supplement.

So when you thinking about a snack THINK BERRIES

Until tomorrow…

DECEMBER 28, 2023 MEMORY

I do not mind growing old as long as I have my memory. I do many things to keep my memory as sharp as I need it. I constantly am learning new things

Studies have shown that patients on the conventional drug, Aricept (Donepezil) scored higher on the Mini Mental State Examiantion than did patients who discontinued the drug. In addition those taking Aricepot scored lower on the Activities of Daily Living Scale which means they had less impairment. I use this drug in combination with herbs/supplements. I do find that older patients sometimes get gastrointestinal upset from Aricept. This is why I utilize an integrative approach to memory loss.

It is not easy to find studies on botanicals for memory loss. It is easier to find studies of vitamin/supplements like acetyl L carnitine, phosphotidylserine, phosphotidylcholine and omega 3, 6 9 fish oils. I use an herb called Bacopa often at 300mg twice a day.

Culpepper referred to this plant as 'a great binder' In older times, herbalists used to believe that the planets of our solar system governed the plants. Periwinkle (Vinca major and Vinca minor) were said to be governed by the planet Venus. Both have similar herbal properties. These plants have helped cancer patients with two medicines, vinblastine and vincristine. One of the other major uses of vinpocetine is for memory. According to Matthew Wood in Earthwise Herbal, Lord Bacon  believed that a cramp in the leg could be cured by wrapping periwinkle vine around the leg. I have seen herbalists use periwinkle for heavy menstrual bleeding, ulcers, skin disorders, and even vertigo. I have not used Periwinkle species as much as I should with the exception of the substance vinpocetine being present in many memory formulas. I use 20 mg capsules twice a day.

The other herbs in Memory formulas include ginkgo, garlic and huperzine.

Even the glowing jellyfish has a substance called Prevagen which has gained popularity in helping memory. Many of my patients have used Prevagen with success. In addition to constantly learning I do word games constantly. I do Luminosity everyday . I stitch everyday and I read something new everyday

For the New Year 2024, I want to continually learn to increase my memory

Until tomorrow…

DECEMBER 27, 2023 HERBAL ANTIBIOTICS IN MEMORY OF

It is the second edition of Buhner's Herbal Antibiotics: Natural Alternatives for Treating Drug Resistant Bacteria that you must read . For most, you never consider a herb as an alternative for an antibiotic. Well, if you have not thought of this, you better start. The conventional antibiotics are dwindling in number, and the number of resistant bacteria are getting overwhelming.

We need to make friends with bacteria because as Buhner states, "bacteria play an integral role in supporting, maintaining and rebuilding health." I feel and know it is unhealthy thinking to make enemies of bacteria as well as the plants, the honeybees, the ants, and all forms of life. You must realize that these life forms were here well before man. This is wonderfully demonstrated in his book. It also has been well demonstrated when listening or reading Paul Stamen's " Mycelium Running" This is a book about the intricate life of mushrooms and their use in the world. There is so much we do not know about life at this time.

We are in a world of antibioticc overuse  which generates new pathogenic and resistant strains. You read about MRSA, methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus. It is not the only bacterium that has developed resistance. There are more than we know.


Herbal Antibiotics 2nd edition explores different herbs than the first edition  and utilizes the terms systemic, non systemic and synergistic herbs.

I am a lover of books, and this book is no exception. He is also the author of another favorite, " Healing Lyme"

In memory of Stepehen Buehner- a mentor, friend and colleague May his teachings never be forgotten

Until tomorrow...

DECEMBER 26, 2023 HERPES

The Holiday times creates stress for many individuals As people start to get stressed their lips quiver and the residing dormant virus on the nerve endings occurs. It is the painful fever blister known as Herpes I. These fever blisters are agitated by stress, tension, a lowered immune system ( in my case lack of sleep ) and sometimes even a diet rich in sugar and nuts. Nuts contain arginine which is the herpes virus fuel source.

I have learned to prevent outbreaks. I know when they start to happen as I get a sensation in my lower lips The following are steps to prevent the outbreak
1. I start to drink bitter teas to cool of my liver. I will tell you straight out that they do not taste well. These are Oregon Root, Dandelion and Yellow Dock
2. I add some Reishi mushrooms to my diet
3. I take echinacea tincture 1/2 dropperful twice to three times a day
4. I immediately start the two amino acids, lysine and proline in high doses
Lysine 500mg (6-8/day ) and Proline 500mg ( 6-8/day)

I have listened to many other herbalists regarding Licorice ( Glycyhhriza glabra) for the treatment of Herpes simplex I and II. It is the genus of the pea family. There are many medicinal uses for Licorice. I have used it in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease, but in the deglycerized version

In addition to starting some or all of 1-4 above, start applying licorice tincture to the affected area. I have seen others talk about adding lemon balm in the essential oil form. I like the combination of three tinctures St John's Wort, Licorice and calendula. Mix and dab throughout the day. I prefer due to work situation to drink the maximal dose of 1 teaspoon three times a day. Lemon Balm is great for the Herpes viruses. Lemon Balm can affect the thyroid ( so consult a health care [practitioner first )



Until tomorrow...

DECEMBER 21, 2023 BREAKFAST

Choosing the right foods for breakfast sets the tone for the entire day. A nutritious morning meal not only fuels the body with energy but also supports overall health and wellness The orange juice and cereal was not the greatest breakfast when I was a child. Where is the protein in that meal ? There is none

Adele Davis, author “ Get Well First ,” stated Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a pauper. “ She was right We eat the exact opposite in the United States

The typical bagel and cream cheese, sugar cereal , and pastries are the worst . The ham,egg and cheese on a croissant wouldn’t be bad if you eliminated the croissant. Creating homemade breakfast sandwiches is a healthier approach. Using whole grain bread, lean proteins like turkey or chicken, and adding vegetables like spinach or tomatoes can make for a more nutritious sandwich. Including a slice of low-fat cheese or a spread of avocado can provide healthy fats

Try to have protein for breakfast. Try having the cup of coffee while eating breakfast or after breakfast. DO NOT MAKE it the first thing you put into your mouth. You can have a healthy protein shake in the morning. Breakfast sets your pace for the morning. Try to eat healthy

Until tomorrow…

DECEMBER 20, 2023 REDUCE INFLAMMATION WITH FOODS

Certain foods, rich in specific nutrients can reduce inflammation. One of the best foods to consume is Kale . Kale has a high concentration of antioxidants, minerals and vitamins which contribute to its high anti-inflammatory use. If you consume kale regularly you can prevent chronic disease You can add kale to a salad or even a smoothie. If you never had kale start with a small amount and build up

Another great anti-inflammatory food is almond. A great source of healthy fats, protein and fiber and vitamin E The healthy monounsaturated fats in almonds can reduce inflammation It is simple to have a handful of almonds each day I find it a great snack in the middle of the day You can add these almonds to a cereal or a yogurt.

The last great anti-inflammatory foods that I advocate are blueberries I eat blueberries daily either in a Greek goat yogurt or in my gluten free cereal. A regular intake of blueberries can reduce heart disease. The presence of fiber and vitamins sin blueberries males them an essential part of your daily life There is also blueberry juice which I consume weekly

Until tomorrow…

DECEMBER 19, 2023 OLIVE OIL

Did you have your olive oil today? I was probably bathed in olive oil as a child. The vegetable oils that predominantly monounsatured lead to a less cardiovascular risk than polyunsaturated. It was long ago that physicians did recommend those polyunsaturated oils to protect your heart. But as it turns out- That was WRONG. Margarine took the place of butter at that time. That was a big mistake. From research we know better today.

Do they still sell margarine? I hope not.

The following oils do not pose a threat to the cardiovascular system.
1. OLIVE - GREAT FOR TYPE O Blood
2. CANOLA
3. PEANUT
4. AVOCADO
There are differences in all four, and the one I prefer and highly recommend above all is OLIVE OIL. Due to the generosity of two friends, Carol and Aldo, we have a olive tree in Italy on a Olive Farm. During the year Rick and I receive olive oil from our own tree. It is the best

By replacing saturated fat in the diet with olive oil will reduce your LDL ( bad cholesterol). Who can argue with an oil that has been around for thousands of years. Our Italian olive oil from our tree is Extra-virgin.
This is extracted with gentle pressure rather than with heat or solvents. There are no pesticides strayed on our olive trees.

No matter what you decide , Olive Oil has the best correlation with health. The populations that use olive oil solely and mainly as their cooking fat oil have lower reductions in degenerative disease, cancer and cardiovascular disease.

If you replace butter ( and for those unfortunate that still use margarine) with olive oil you are making the first step to a healthier lifestyle.

So imagine this: combine olive oil in your diet daily with omega 3 fatty acids from good quality fish--and you will have longevity

Until tomorrow...