Garlic, A Weapon against Cancer

Garlic, the odorous bulb that's probably in your kitchen right now, has been important in both food and medicine dating back to ancient Egypt, but its most important role may be in fighting one of modern man's most dreaded diseases — cancer. Recent research has found that compounds in garlic can cut cancer risks by as much as two-thirds.  According to the National Cancer Institute, which is a part of the National Institutes of Health, several studies have shown that garlic cut the risk of several forms of cancer by 50 percent or more.

Recent research has found garlic contains more than 30 organosulphur compounds, many with exciting anti-cancer properties. One is an organosulphur compound called diallyl trisulfide (DATS), which fights cancer by preventing, killing, or blocking the growth and spread of cancerous cells. Some studies have suggested that garlic inhibits the development and progression of prostate, breast, colon, stomach, bladder, esophageal, and skin cancers in test tubes and in animals. One study conducted at the University of North Carolina found that people who eat garlic cut their risk of colorectal cancer by two-thirds.

According to The National Cancer Institute, garlic can lower the risk of pancreatic cancer by 54 percent, prostate cancer by 50 percent, colon cancer by 50 percent, and stomach cancer by 52 percent. Some studies show even greater benefits: One study conducted at the University of North Carolina found that people who eat garlic cut their risk of colorectal cancer by two-thirds.

Garlic can even help deter some of the deadliest cancers. Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina found that sulfur compounds in garlic are effective against glioblastoma, a fatal type of brain tumor.

Blueberries for Urinary Tract Infections

Blueberries are bursting with tannins, compounds that boot out the bacteria responsible for urinary tract infections. Researchers at Rutgers University in Chatsworth, New Jersey, found that these tannins prevent the germs from attaching to the wall of our bladder, where they thrive. How many blueberries should we eat? Researchers aren’t sure. But if we suffer from frequent urinary infections, we might want to think about tossing a handful in our mouth whenever we are in the kitchen.

Dark Leafy Greens for Eye Health

If your idea of salad is a few leaves of iceberg lettuce in an ocean of thousand island dressing, it’s time for change. While light colored lettuce is a nutritional lightweight, dark leafy greens are packed with vitamins and high in calcium and magnesium. They’re also a great source of lutein, a nutrient that appears to protect the eyes against macular degeneration, a common cause of blindness among the elderly. Perhaps most important, they’re among the strongest in levels of antioxidant activity

Choose fresh looking bunches. When shopping for kale and collard greens, the stemmed ends should be clean, with no dark patches, and the leaves should be bright, without any wilting or yellowing.

Spinach, endive and romaine lettuce are great in salads; just dress with a little olive oil and red wine vinegar. Other greens, such as collard greens and kale, may taste too bitter, so sauté them in a little olive oil with fresh garlic.

Dietary Tips for a Natural Energy Boost

Persistent mild fatigue or a chronic lack of energy due to day-to-day stressors or hectic schedules can often be addressed with simple preventive steps. In addition to regular exercise, quality rest, and a supplement routine designed to promote energy, try these dietary tips for a natural energy boost:

1.    Eat a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables (preferably organic) for their protective phytochemicals and micronutrients needed for optimal metabolism.

2.    Eat modest meals. A large meal can trigger the body to release more insulin, resulting in low blood sugar levels and a fatigue-inducing slump. Eating smaller meals can help keep blood sugar levels steady.

3.    Stay hydrated. Dehydration is a common cause of fatigue - drink purified water or other healthy liquids throughout the day.

4.    Snack right. Choose healthy snacks that contain some protein, carbohydrates, and beneficial fats. Good options include a handful of unsalted nuts, fresh or dried fruit, plain yogurt, vegetable sticks, and whole grain bread or crackers.

5.    Eat more fiber. Navy beans, kidney beans, chickpeas, and lentils are all rich in fiber, which slows the release of insulin and helps maintain a steady supply of energy.

Minerals to help Stregthen Bones

If you have osteoporosis, it is important to support bone metabolism by supporting its biochemistry. Bisphosphonate medications poison bone biochemistry.

What can you do to support bone biochemistry? It is important to eat a healthy diet free of refined foods and drink adequate amounts of water to prevent dehydration. Ensuring adequate intake of vitamins D and K is also a must.

Mineral support is very helpful for providing the bones with the raw materials it needs to optimize bone health. Magnesium, boron, calcium, copper, manganese, and strontium are all minerals that help strengthen bones.

Vitamins C, D, K2, B1, B2, B3, B6, and B12 are also needed for optimal bone health.