FEBRUARY 27, 2024 PINEAPPLES

 Pineapples, with their distinctive sweet and tangy flavor, have captivated my taste buds since childhood Pineapples are a treasure trove of essential nutrients, offering a cocktail of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. Rich in Vitamin C, manganese, and dietary fiber, this fruit stands out for its impressive nutritional profile. The presence of these nutrients ensures that pineapples are not just a tasty treat but also a health-enhancing food.

The enzyme bromelain, found abundantly in pineapples, is another noteworthy component. It breaks down proteins, aiding in digestion and showcasing anti-inflammatory properties.

The enzyme bromelain is a star player when it comes to the digestive benefits of pineapples. It facilitates the breakdown of proteins into amino acids, easing the digestive process and potentially alleviating symptoms of indigestion and bloating. Regular consumption of pineapples may contributw to better digestion I also use bromelain as a natural blood thinner along with nattokinase and Omega 3

It is great to boost the immune system Pineapples are celebrated for their anti-inflammatory properties, largely attributed to the enzyme bromelain. This enzyme has been studied for its potential to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions. The only disadvantage is that pineapples have a high glycemic index ( means pineapples can elevate blood sugar levels )

There is one ther side effect. Despite the numerous benefits, overconsumption of pineapples may lead to certain risks and discomforts. The fruit’s acidity can cause mouth irritation or exacerbate symptoms in individuals prone to acid reflux and heartburn.

So I am telling you to eat some pineapple in your fruit mixture.

Until tomorrow…

FEBRUARY 26, 2025 CINNAMON

It;s distinctive The warming, sweet and woody aroma of cinnamon is one of the most recognizable scents out there. I add cinnamon to my herbal teas I drink as well as to some food dishes. Cinnamon has great health benefits.

Cinnamon may improve oral health. Cinnamon is thought to reduce the formation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that can lead to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath Cnnamon is a natural source of fluoride, which helps to strengthen teeth and prevent decay. Try to get a toothpaste with cinnamon oil or powder in it. These do exist !

Cinnamon has been shown to promote heart health in a number of ways. For one, it helps to lower cholesterol levels It is good to add cinnamon to your dietary lifestyle. cinnamon has also been shown to improve blood sugar control. This is important because high blood sugar levels can damage the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease. The association between diabetes and heart disease is highly correlated.

Cinnamon has ts ability to improve gut health. Cinnamon is a potent source of antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body.It is great to add cinnamon to support individual’s with irritable bowel disease as Crohn’s , Celac , and Ulceratve colitis. By reducing inflammation, cinnamon may help to alleviate some of the symptoms of these conditions.

So add cinnamon to your dietary lifestyle

Until tomorrow…

FEBRUARY 25, 2025 INFLAMMATION

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. Understanding the role of diet in managing inflammation is crucial I feel the best way to combat inflammation is by diet and if not one should take some vitamins, and herbs.

The first food to incorporate in your dietary lifestyle 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

Nuts and seeds are important in anyone’s diet There are exception based on your blood type. The other exception is any individual with diverticulosis or a history of diverticulitis should avoid nuts. Certain nuts are better than others. For example walnuts are high in Omega 3 which are anti inflammatory. Brazil nuts are good for selenium and for patient’s with Autoimmune thyroiditis. 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

A good source of protein and low in mercury that is anti inflammatory is Salmon.Salmon is celebrated for its high omega-3 fatty acid content, essential fats that are known for their anti-inflammatory effects. These fatty acids help reduce the production of molecules and substances linked to inflammation, such as inflammatory eicosanoids and cytokines

There are two great herbs that are anti inflammatory are ginger and turmeric. You should incorporate these two herbs into your diet.

Until tomorrow…

FEBRUARY 24, 2025 FOODS TO LOWER BLOOD SUGAR

Diabetes is a real threat in the United States. We are becoming an obese country. Too many Americans eat foods that are high in sugar. Many consume processed foods which are loaded with sugar.Regulating blood sugar levels is essential for maintaining optimal health, particularly for individuals managing diabetes or pre-diabetes. Stable blood glucose helps prevent long-term health complications such as neuropathy and cardiovascular diseases.

We must all consume foods that lower blood sugar. Two such foods are oats and beans. Fiber is a powerhouse when it comes to slowing down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, which helps prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. Soluble fiber, in particular, forms a gel-like substance in the gut that binds with sugar and slows its absorption. Foods rich in soluble fiber, like oats and beans, are thus excellent choices I try in the winter to consume steel cut oatmeal on a regular basis as three times a week.

We as Americans are afraid of grains. Many cannot consume grains as individuals who are sensitive to gluten, , those allergic to gluten as Celiac patients and those with autoimmune disease have to avoid certain grains. Studies have shown many grains are inflammatory to some individuals. Whole grains are integral to a blood sugar-friendly diet because they digest more slowly than refined grains, leading to more gradual rises in blood sugar levels. Unlike refined grains, which have been stripped of valuable nutrients during processing, whole grains retain their bran and germ. This means they provide more fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which are beneficial for blood sugar management. Foods like quinoa, whole oats, and brown rice

Lasttly we should consume nuts, seeds and avocados. Healthy fats are crucial in a diet aimed at regulating blood sugar levels because they do not directly raise glucose levels and can help slow the overall digestion process. Incorporating sources of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, such as avocados, nuts, and seeds, can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar spikes

There are many supplements that lower blood sugar especially chromium and alpha lipoic acid. There are also herbs as cinnamon fegreek and bitter melon to reduce blood sugar Since diabetes is highly correlated with heart disease— please lower your sugar level

Until tomorrow…

FEBRUARY 20, 2025 COCONUT OIL

Not everyone uses coconut oil. Many think of this oil as a oil for your skin. 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

As we get der our metabolism does get slower. Coconut Oil can bost metabolism and thus help some individuals in losing weight. 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 This allows us to lose weight. We all know how Americans are fixated on weight loss.

Coconut oil does bost 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.

You should use coconut oil for oral health. Your mouth is very portant. Studies have shown that bacteria in the mouth are directly related to your overall heart health. If your HS CRP is elevated we sure to check your mouth. 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. Lauric acid is in human breast milk, protective against infection. Coconut oil is also rich in vitamin E, beneficial for oral health. I use a waterpik to keep my oral health healthy. Many individuals do oil pulling with coconut oil This can health plaque formation and keep bacteria away from your mouth.

Until tomorrow…

FEBRUARY 19, 2025 CHOLESTEROL

Cholesterol levels are essential for cardiovascular health. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, two leading causes of death worldwide. Americans are still obsessed with their cholesterol levels. Diet plays a critical role in controlling your cholesterol levels. Foods rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL)

Avocados for some individuals should consume avocados. For me, as a Blood Type O have to worry about consuming too many as avocados are inflammatory for my blood type. Research supports the cardiovascular benefits of avocados. Several studies indicate that consuming avocados regularly can lead to significant reductions in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. These effects are attributed to their fat composition, fiber content, and the presence of essential vitamins and minerals

Grapes can also lower LDL ( the bad cholesterol) Yet be careful can increase your blood sugar as grapes have a GH glycemic index. Grapes, especially the darker varieties, are a rich source of antioxidants, including resveratrol, which is known for its cholesterol-lowering properties. These antioxidants help reduce the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, a process that contributes to plaque formation in arteries.

Lasttly if you want a bean to lower your cholesterol then start with white beans. White beans are a fantastic source of fiber, which is essential for lowering cholesterol. The fiber in white beans helps bind cholesterol in the digestive system, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream. Additionally, white beans are a good source of protein

Until tomorrow…

FEBRUARY 18, 2025 SUPERFOODS

The immune system works harder during this time, fighting off colds, flu, and other infections. A diet rich in superfoods can provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help strengthen the body's defenses.

Certain foods naturally support immunity by reducing inflammation, providing vital nutrients, and promoting gut health. Incorporating these powerful ingredients into daily meals can make a noticeable difference in overall well-being There are some foods that I consider superfoods that everyone should eat I believe evberyone should have citrus fruits in their diet. Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and limes are among the best natural sources of vitamin C. This essential nutrient plays a critical role in immune function by stimulating white blood cell production, which helps the body fight off infections. Vitamin C also acts as a powerful antioxidant, reducing inflammation and protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals. I eat tangerines daily as well as putting freshly squeezed lemon in my water which I ingest first thing in the morning

This afternoon I had a goat yogurt with berries for lunch. A strong immune system starts in the gut, and  yogurt provides beneficial probiotics that help maintain a healthy gut microbiome. These live bacteria play a crucial role in supporting immune function by balancing the digestive system and preventing harmful bacteria from taking over. A well-balanced gut microbiome reduces inflammation and enhances the body’s ability to fight off infections. Yogurt is a natural source of probiotics,

Alonds and ingesting garklic and ginger are superfoods. If you want a green vegetable to ingest— I suggest spinach Spinach is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that help strengthen the immune system. It is rich in vitamin C, beta-carotene, and antioxidants, all of which enhance the body’s ability to fight infections. The combination of these nutrients supports immune cell function and helps reduce inflammation, keeping the body strong during the colder months. Eating spinach regularly provides a natural way to boost overall health

Until tomorrow…

FEBRUARY 17, 2025 ARTHRITIS

Characterized by joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, it significantly impacts the quality of life. While medication is key as well as herbs and supplements in managing the condition, diet is equally crucial

Certain foods have been identified to alleviate symptoms by reducing inflammation, enhancing immune function, and providing pain relief. One food is any that are rich in Omega 3 Fatty fish are a powerhouse of omega-3 fatty acids, known for their potent anti-inflammatory properties. Regular consumption of fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines can significantly reduce the inflammation associated with arthritis If you do not like fish, you can always get your Omega 3 from walnuts In conjunction with omega 3 I would consume lots of olive oil. Olive oil, a staple of the Mediterranean diet, is renowned for its health benefits, particularly for those with arthritis. It’s rich in monounsaturated fats and contains oleocanthal, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen Certainly this oil is excellent for individuals with Blood Type O

The two herbs i highly recommend are Garlic and Ginger. Garlic ( allium sativum) is a potent anti-inflammatory and immune system booster. Its compounds, such as allicin, have been found to possess properties that reduce inflammation markers associated with arthritis. Regular consumption of garlic can not only help in managing arthritis symptoms Ginger offers significant benefits as a natural pain reliever for arthritis sufferers. Its compounds, such as gingerol, have properties that mimic the effects of certain anti-inflammatory medications. Consuming  ginger can reduce joint pain and stiffness.

Last;y I would consume plenty of berries. Berries are rich in antioxidants, berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, common issues in arthritis.

Until tomorrow…