SEPTEMBER 25 2024 MORE IN HONEY

As the American Apitherapy Society conference is approaching this weekend in Chicago , I wanted to discuss honey. Honey is packed with an array of health benefits that is rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and healing compounds It is not only to sweeten your herbal teas

Honey is used to aid in the digestive process Raw honey’s impact on digestive health is noteworthy. Its  prebiotic nature nurtures beneficial bacteria in the gut, essential for healthy digestion and overall well-being. These prebiotics in raw honey not only aid in digestion but also help in the absorption of nutrients, Honey forms a protective barrier against stomach acids. Therefore can be used as a treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease

There are many peer review journal articles on the benefit of honey for wound healing Raw honey is a natural guardian against bacteria and fungi, owing to its unique composition. The secret lies in its ability to produce hydrogen peroxide through an enzymatic process. This component acts as a mild antiseptic, making raw honey an excellent natural option for treating minor wounds and infections.

We all need a good imune system to fight off free radical damage to our bodies whic cause chronic disease. Raw honey is a powerhouse for enhancing the immune system. Its rich array of antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, plays a crucial role in combating oxidative stress and inflammation

Until tomorrow…

SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 GARLIC

Garlic is a staple in any kitchen, especially in mine growing up in an Italian American household. Not only did garlic add an aroma to the pasta and any food it also has a wide array of health benefits.

Garlic boosts your immune system and fights off infection I used garlic and mullein oil to help my children’s childhood ear infections. Garlic has powerful anti bacterial , anti fungal and anti microbial properties. It helps reduces the severity and duration of the illness. The ost powerful anti oxidant in Garlic is Allicin. Garlic’s botanical name is Allium sativum from the Lily family Other pants in the Lily family are chives and onions

Garlic is useful for its cardioprotective benefits. Studies have shown that garlic can lower blood pressure, and reduce cholesterol levels. I recommend regular consumption of garlic - by adding it to your cooking. It has been studied o reduce e ability to build up plaque in your arteries. So I see no downside to your consumption of garlic in your dietary lifestyle.

It also contains dietary fiber which helps your digestive process. It also contains probiotic compounds to balance the healthy bacteria in your gut thus helping an unbalance called dysbiosis. Although I use the resin from the mastica tree for treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection, I also use garlic

Add garlic to your daily regimen Until tomorrow…

SEPTEMBER 23, 2024 THYROID

The thyroid, is a small gland located in the neck, plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and overall health. Certain foods can effect your thyroid function whether causing hypothyroidism ( underactive) or hyperthyroidism ( overactive )

Some of these foods are commin that we might eat every day Cruciferous  vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts contain goitrogens, substances that can interfere with thyroid hormone production. When these vegetables are consumed in large amounts, particularly in their raw form, they can lead to the enlargement of the thyroid gland, a condition known as goiter. I never tell patients to eliminate them but to reduce them

One food group that affects autoimmune thyroiditis also known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is is gluten. Gluten is a protein found in barley rye oats and wheat and many other grains The blood test that reveals you have autoimmune thyroiditis is thyroid peroxidase antibodies , TPO To reduce the antibodies you must decrease or elinininate gluten You also must see a health cae practitioner to prescribe low dose naltrexone.

Coffee can also affec your thyroid Coffee, especially when consumed in large quantities, can interfere with the absorption of thyroid medication. Caffeine has a stimulant effect that can exacerbate symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and insomnia. For those taking thyroid hormone replacement therapy, it’s advisable to wait at least an hour after medication before drinking coffee.

Diet is a pivotal point to changing your health

Until tomorrow…

JULY 25, 2024 RAW HONEY

Raw honey, treasured for centuries, offers more than just sweetness. This natural wonder, derived from the hard work of bees, is packed with an array of health benefits. Rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and healing compounds, raw honey stands out as a multifaceted food

As a beekeeper and apitherapist I use all products of the hive medicinally—-honey, propolis, bee pollen , royal jelly and bee venom

Raw honey’s impact on digestive health is noteworthy. Its prebiotic nature nurtures beneficial bacteria in the gut, essential for  healthy digestion and overall well-being. These prebiotics in raw honey not only aid in digestion but also help in the absorption of nutrients. I use raw honey for gastritis, esophagitis , healing ulcers, and reflux

Raw honey is a natural guardian against bacteria and fungi, owing to its unique composition. The secret lies in its ability to produce hydrogen peroxide through an enzymatic process. This component acts as a mild antiseptic, making raw honey an excellent natural option for treating minor wounds and infections. There are published studies on raw honey for wound healing

Raw honey is a powerhouse for enhancing the immune system. Its rich array of antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, plays a crucial role in combating oxidative stress and inflammation, which are key factors in immune  health. These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals, thereby reducing the risk of chronic diseases

There is no down side to having raw honey It increases your melatonin production so it is good for sleep. It is a great energy source. It also good for diabetics as it will not increase your glucose Raw honey, despite its natural sweetness, has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar, making it a healthier alternative. Its sugars are absorbed more slowly into the bloodstream, preventing rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.

So have one teaspoon per day Last year I produced over 100 pounds of honey from my hives. I thank my bees. Without bees , we would have a third less of vital food. Support your local beekeeper and the American Apitherapy Society ( www.apitherapy.org )

Until tomorrow…

JUKY 24, 2024 COCONUT OIL

Coconut oil can be used in cooking or applied directly to the skin for maximum benefit. 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.

According to a study done by the National Institutes of  Health, coconut oil can help to reduce seizures. The study included just rats, but the results suggest that coconut oil could also benefit humans. 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

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.

IT IS GOOOD FOR REDUICING STRESS AND IMPROVING YOUR ORALM/ DENTAL HEALTH

Until tomorrow…

JULY 23, 2024 ANTI-INFLAMMATORY FOODS

Inflammation is a natural response of the body to protect itself against harm, but chronic inflammation can lead to various health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Certain food are anti inflammatory as these contain antioxidants

One of the best foods is KALE Kale stands out as a superfood, primarily due to its high concentration of  vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients, especially  vitamins K, A, and C, contribute significantly to its anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the presence of glucosinolates in kale helps in detoxifying the body, further reducing inflammation.

Another food is almonds Almonds are a powerhouse of nutrients and a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They are particularly rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps combat inflammation and stress in the body. Almonds also contain healthy monounsaturated fats, which are known to reduce inflammation and promote heart health.

I enjoy this last food- Blueberries Blueberries are not only delicious but also a powerhouse of anti-inflammatory properties, mainly due to their high antioxidant content. These antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, give blueberries their distinctive color and reduce inflammation. Regular consumption of blueberries has been linked to a decrease in the risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions associated with inflammation

Until tomorrow…

JULY 22, 2024 TUMERIC

Derived from the Curcuma longa plant, this spice has been a staple in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for centuries. Its active compound, curcumin, is credited with a range of therapeutic properties, from anti-inflammatory effects to antioxidant activities

There are many medicinal benefits of tumeric. Some have been studied by the National Institute of Cancer Curcumin, the primary compound in turmeric, plays a significant role in alleviating joint pain and reducing inflammation, making it a popular supplement for those suffering from arthritis. Its anti-inflammatory properties are comparable to over-the-counter medications but without the side effects. Studies have shown that regular intake of turmeric can lead to significant improvements in joint pain and mobility for individuals with osteoarthritis, one of the most common forms of arthritis.

Turmeric’s impact on digestive health is profound, offering relief for various gastrointestinal issues. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties aid in soothing the lining of the digestive tract, providing relief from discomfort caused by conditions like gastritis and peptic ulcers. Curcumin stimulates the gallbladder to produce bile, a key component in the digestive process, thus enhancing the digestion of fats

As a cardiologist I use curcumin in many patients. Turmeric’s benefits for cardiovascular health are rooted in its ability to improve blood circulation and reduce cholesterol levels. Curcumin has been found to have a positive effect on the lining of blood vessels, enhancing their ability to regulate blood pressure and clotting

Curcumin, the primary active component in turmeric, has been found to affect cancer growth, development, and spread at the molecular level. It has shown the ability to kill cancer cells and prevent more from growing, especially in certain types of cancer, such as breast, bowel, stomach, and skin cancers In many patients with cancer , tumeric has been used as an anti-cancer herb. I utilize chemo-sensitivity and herbal sensitivity testing before I prescribe curcumin

Until tomorrow…

JULY 18, 2024 BENEFITS OFMAGNESIUM

Magnesium maintains normal blood pressure, steady heart rhythm, and a  healthy immune system Magnesium is a crucial mineral that plays a vital role in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the human body, including energy production, nerve function, and muscle contraction. Despite its importance, many people fall short of their daily magnesium requirements, leading to various  health issues

Adults require 310-420 mg of magnesium daily, yet many are deficient, which can lead to  health problems such as muscle cramps, mental disorders, and osteoporosis.  Nuts and seeds are among the best dietary sources of magnesium. For example, just a half-cup of pumpkin seeds provides nearly 100% of the recommended daily intake of magnesium. Almonds, cashews, and Brazil  nuts are also rich in this mineral

You should consume leafy greens Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are not only famous for their high fiber content but also their impressive magnesium levels. A single cup of cooked spinach contains about 157 mg of magnesium, which is nearly 40% of the daily requirement

Every individual should get their omega 3 in their diet If not from fish you can get froman algae source. Fish, particularly fatty varieties like salmon, mackerel, and halibut, are excellent sources of magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart  health. A 3-ounce serving of cooked salmon provides around 26 mg of magnesium, coupled with the heart-healthy benefits of omega-3s

GET YOUR MAGNESIUM TODAY

Until tomorrow…