Healthy Living

It’s the beginning of the year and generally the time we set goals and make resolutions.  One common goal for many is to make better choices when it comes to health.  Being healthy is very important.  Basically, it’s the one thing you need in order to function.

And as we age it gets even more crucial.  Adopting healthy habits helps as you grow older and this superfood aids in that process.

The superfood in question is beetroot.  Beets have many benefits and are loaded with vitamins and minerals yet low in calories and fat.  They’re also a good source of several key nutrients, including folate, manganese and copper.

A Part of Self-Care

Practicing self-care aids in living longer and enjoying a more active life.

However, research shows that as we age our ability to absorb many nutrients become less efficient.  

Beetroot powder is a supplement that can help with doing that.

Nutrients through Supplements

Taking supplements is a way of getting the nutrients you’re not absorbing through your food.

But, always check with your healthcare provider before beginning this regiment.

There may be potential side-effects with medications or preexisting health conditions.

What is Beetroot Powder?

Beets are considered a “superfood“ because they contain lots of vitamins and nutrients. With this in mind here are a few. 

• Protein
• Fiber
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin B6
• Folate
• Magnesium
• Potassium
• Manganese
• Iron

They are a root vegetable, very similar to turnips.  Beetroot powder mirrors that of beets since it’s just the root vegetable in a highly concentrated powdered form.  It contains micronutrients and phytonutrients that may benefit heart, gut and brain health.  What are the benefits of beetroot powder you ask?  There are many and here are a few. 

Here are 7 Surprising Benefits:

1.) Could lower Blood Pressure

High blood pressure puts you at risk of heart attack and stroke. Several studies show that the nitrate oxide produced from beetroot consumption may help reduce blood pressure, promoting heart health.

2.) Boosts Brain Health

Reduced blood circulation and oxygen play a big role in age-related memory loss and degenerative conditions like dementia.

The nitrates in beetroot powder stimulate blood vessels in the brain and support healthy blood and oxygen supplies. 

In particular, beets stimulate blood flow in the brain’s frontal lobe which is the area responsible for sharp decision making.

3.) Improves Athletic Performance

Just like nitrates stimulate healthy blood flow to the brain, they also encourage blood flow throughout other areas of the body including the respiratory system and muscles.

Nitrates also support the cell’s energy source, mitochondria.

4.) Fight Inflammation

Thanks to the brilliant pink hue in beetroot, betalain, beets can fight inflammation throughout the body. 

Studies have shown substances in beets to reduce pain associated with chronic inflammatory conditions like osteoarthritis. 

5.) Supports Liver Health

The betalain in beets serves as a powerful tool to help your liver detoxify itself so it can function more efficiently.

Betalain also encourages healthy bile production and flow throughout the small intestine to keep your liver functioning at optimal levels.  The folate and iron give your liver a little extra support too. 

6.) Encourage Weight Loss

Beetroot is a nutrient-dense food.  The fiber in beetroot can promote a feeling of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management and appetite control. 

7.) Skin Health

Antioxidants in beetroot may contribute to healthier skin by combating free radicals and promoting a radiant complexion.

Adding beetroot powder to a smoothie or juice is more efficient than eating whole beets, Jenna Volpe, RDN, registered dietitian and nutritionist and founder of Whole-istic Living, told Verywell.

A teaspoon of pure beetroot powder offers a similar nutrition profile to one whole, raw beet.  Beet juice is also rich in nutrients but doesn’t contain as much fiber as the powdered root.

3 John 1:22 

22 Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.

Please note that this is for informational purposes only, it is not medical advice. Rita Johnson is not addressing anyone’s personal situation. It is not intended to replace a qualified healthcare professional. Please check with your physician before acting on any data found here.

Taken from an article by Rhonda Patrick

w/analysis by Dr. Joseph Mercola

Doctors who have used it call this underappreciated vitamin a “premiere treatment” for many types of infections.  But others shun it.  Because it doesn’t produce significant profits.  With high doses, it can help eliminate pathogens.  And it could prove to be invaluable for coronavirus.

In small quantities, it protects proteins, lipids, and even DNA and RNA in your body.  It protects the body from reactive oxygen species that are generated during normal metabolism, as well as due to toxin exposure.  Although life as we know it is changing, this vitamin stays the same.

What is this underappreciated vitamin?

Vitamin C.  Vitamin C boosts your immunity.  It helps encourage the production of white blood cells known as lymphocytes and phagocytes.  These blood cells help protect the body against infection.  It’s also known as ascorbic acid.  Ascorbic acid is necessary for growth, development, and repair of all body tissues.

Vitamin C fights the common cold

Vitamin C’s anti-cold effects are among its most-studied uses.  Research suggests that using vitamin C prophylactically as well as therapeutically at the onset of cold symptoms may reduce symptoms and cold duration.

Per Harvard Health Publishing, the most convincing evidence to date comes from a 2013 review.  The review consisted of 29 randomized trials with more than 11,000 participants.  Researchers found that among extremely active people – such as marathon runners, skiers, and Army troops doing heavy exercise in subarctic conditions – taking at least 200mg of vitamin C every day appeared to cut the risk of getting a cold in half.  But for the general population, taking vitamin C did not reduce the risk of getting a cold.

Antioxidant Properties

Vitamin C’s antioxidant properties, may help decrease the risk of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and multiple sclerosis because it reduces oxidative damage.

Boosts immunity

Healthline states that one of the main reasons people take vitamin C supplements is to boost their immunity. Because vitamin C protects the body and is involved in many parts of the immune system.

Studies have shown that taking vitamin C may shorten wound healing time.  It’s an essential part of the skin’s defense system.  It’s transported to the skin actively, where it acts as an antioxidant to help strengthen the skin’s barriers.

What’s more, low levels of vitamin C have been linked to poor health outcomes.

For example, people who have pneumonia tend to have lower vitamin C levels.  And vitamin C supplements have been shown to shorten the recovery time.

Other health benefits of Vitamin C

• Reduce risk of chronic disease
• May manage blood pressure
• May lower risk of heart disease
• Helps prevent iron deficiency
• May reduce blood uric acid levels and help prevent gout attacks
• Protects your memory and thinking as you age
• Helps maintain healthy skin and hair

Does vitamin C help with COVID?

Per Healthline with the coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic, it’s important to understand that no supplement, diet, or other lifestyle modification other than social distancing, and proper hygiene practices (washing hands) can protect you from COVID-19.

High dose IV vitamin C has been used in China to help improve lung function in people with COVID-19.  However, vitamin C’s effectiveness is still being tested.  It is thought to help reverse some of the damage that COVID-19 can cause.

There’s no proof it can treat or cure coronavirus.  And there’s no evidence to support the use of oral vitamin C supplements for COVID-19.

Research and evidence

Medical-News Today stated that a handful of papers have suggested that vitamin C may help treat inflammation and symptoms associated with COVID-19.  At least one clinical trial testing is underway.  But it will not finish until September 2020.

For now, the research supporting the use of vitamin C for COVID-19 has looked at conditions such as acute respiratory distress syndrome and the need for mechanical ventilation due to severe cases of COVID-19.  It has not looked specifically at people with COVID-19.

Bottom line

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that must be obtained from diet or supplements.

It has been linked to many impressive health benefits.  Such as, boosting antioxidant levels, lowering blood pressure, protecting against gout attacks, improving iron absorption, boosting immunity, and reducing heart disease and dementia risk.

Overall, vitamin C supplements are a great and simple way to boost your vitamin C intake if you struggle to get enough from your diet.  So give it a try.  After all, vitamin C does protect the body.

Isaiah 53:5

I have seen what they do, but I will heal them anyway!  I will lead them.  I will comfort those who mourn, bringing words of praise to their lips.  May they have abundant peace, both near and far says the Lord, who heals them.

 

One more thing:

Hop on over to Christian and Alternative Health FB Group where you’ll find advice and recipes for healthy living.  Tips for up and coming copywriters.  And, spiritual dialog that’s both inspiring and encouraging.  

 

Right now is a very trying time in not only this country but the world.  It’s something that’s bigger than all of us and has taken us by storm.  Most of the country’s on lockdown with half of its citizens under quarantine and with good reason.  There hasn’t been anything like this in the last 50 years and people are scared.  We’re dealing with a crisis…a health crisis.

Most businesses have been told to close up shop and send their employees home in order to lessen the spread.  And many are filing for unemployment not knowing what’s next.

We’ve dealt with outbreaks in this country before like Ebola, Sars, Zika, Swine and even the bird flu but none has been quite like this one.  This one’s in a class all by itself (not much is known about it) and it’s highly contagious and deadly.  It spreads rapidly and can kill just as quickly.  It’s an infectious disease called Covid-19 or coronavirus.

What is Covid-19 Coronavirus Disease?

Coronavirus disease (Covid-19) is an infectious disease caused by a new virus.  It started in China in December 2019.  The disease causes respiratory illness (like the flu) with symptoms such as a cough, fever and in more serious cases, difficulty breathing.  Covid-19 can be severe and in some cases have caused death.

How does it Spread?

How does coronavirus disease spread?  The disease spreads primarily through contact with an infected person when they cough or sneeze.  It also spreads when a person touches a surface or object that has the virus on it, then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth.

The spread is being monitored by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the World Health Organization and health organizations like Johns Hopkins across the globe.

How can Coronavirus be Treated?

There are no specific vaccines or treatment for Covid-19 coronavirus disease.  However, many of the symptoms can be treated and with supportive measures (those that relieve symptoms).  For severe cases, there may be additional options for treatment, including research drugs and therapeutics.

What is the Incubation Period for Covid-19 Coronavirus?

Symptoms appear to start showing up within 14 days of exposure to the virus.

What You should do if You Experience any Symptoms

Covid-19 symptoms include:

• Cough
• Fever
• Tiredness
• Shortness of Breath

If you have a fever or cough, you might have Covid-19.  Most people have mild illness  and are able to recover at home.  Keep track of your symptoms.  If they continue or get worse seek medical attention right away.

Call your doctor and he/she will let you know what to do.  Don’t go into the office.  In rare cases, Covid-19 can lead to severe respiratory problems, kidney failure or death.

What You Can do to Protect Yourself and your Family

People can help protect themselves from respiratory illness with everyday preventative actions.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Stay at home

Bottom Line…

The coronavirus pandemic sweeping the globe has not only left us with a new way of life, many are also feeling anxious about life and death issues.  It’s also left people struggling with a host of less obvious, existential losses as they heed stay-home warnings and wonder how bad all of this is going to get.

Some feel lonely and some even feel isolated but know that you will get through this.  Our Heavenly Father is our strength and is still on the throne, he’s there whenever you need him.  Go to him in prayer or just everyday talk…he will hear you and help you with your anxiety and your loneliness.

 

Proverbs 12:25 Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.

1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Philippians 4:6-7 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

 

 

 

You can’t believe it!  You went to the doctor for your annual check-up and the normally healthy you was just diagnosed with diabetes. You’re a little stunned, to say the least, and you can’t believe it.

Diabetes is a serious disease that in addition to other ailments it could also harm your kidneys. But you were told that it was caught early enough that it’s not a problem for your kidneys, and you thank God for that.

You were also told that there are steps you could take to prevent that from happening. You breathe a sigh of relief.

The doctor had a long talk with you and gave you a pamphlet with several steps you could take to continue with normal kidney function and you’re literally trying to take this all in. You’re devastated but happy at the same time because it could’ve been much worse. 

Before now you prided yourself in the fact of having a clean bill of health at your age. You know as we age we become more susceptible to disease and injury – but you never gave it a second thought because you were doing and feeling fine. Now you have to rethink everything.

We slow down as we age…

And so does our immune system. There’s nothing you can do about that, it’s called the progression of life. Things must and will change. And even though you can’t do anything about your age you can do what it takes to be as healthy as you can.

So what can you do?

There’s an herb that fights diabetes, according to a study published in the Journal of Diabetes in 2012.  You can go back to feeling your best and living your best life with this superfood.  It’s nutritious and it’s a treatment for many health conditions.  

In fact, this superfood was recognized by the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United States in September 2014 as the Traditional Crop of the Month.  It’s a nutrient-dense superfood that’s rich in antioxidants. So what is it?  It’s moringa oleifera, and it also plays a role in the development of cancer.

What is Moringa?

Moringa is a plant native to India, that’s cultivated worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions. It’s known for its nutritional and medicinal properties. Researchers show it could be used as a treatment for cancer, asthma, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other diseases.

A 2017 study published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention found the extract from moringa leaves acts as an anti-cancer agent that reduces cancer cell growth and promotes cell death in several cancers.

It protects the cardiovascular system…

Moringa leaf powder has heart-healthy benefits, particularly in blood lipid control, the prevention of plaque formation in the arteries, and reduced cholesterol levels.

Nutritional Benefits…

• It’s nutrient-packed.  Moringa is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids...
• it fights free radicals...
• It fights inflammation…
• It helps reduce some diabetes symptoms…
• It protects the cardiovascular system…
• It supports brain health…
• It protects the liver…
• It contains antimicrobial and antibacterial properties.

It’s a relative newcomer to the mainstream health community…

Moringa has seven times the amount of vitamin C in oranges, four times as much calcium and double the amount of protein in milk. It has four times the vitamin A in carrots, three times the amount of iron in spinach and three times the potassium in bananas.

Moringa tree leaves registered a higher ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) score (157,000) than most antioxidant superfoods that are traditionally talked about, including Acai berries, green tea, blueberries, dark chocolate, garlic, goji berries, pomegranates and red wine!

In places where no one can afford fancy pharmaceuticals, moringa trees keep people healthy.

It goes by a variety of names…

Such as, drumstick tree, horseradish tree, ben oil tree, or vitamin tree – with good reason. Almost all parts of the tree are eaten or used as ingredients in traditional herbal medicines. This especially applies to the leaves and pods, which are commonly eaten in parts of India and Africa.

Moringa can be incorporated into your daily diet…

The leaves can be eaten fresh, cooked or crushed, and they can be stored as dried powder for several months without loss of nutritional value. It tastes great in fruit smoothies. You can try combining passionfruit, moringa and honey for a tasty, nutritious snack or use the dried powder in a curry recipe and serve it over rice. It’s commonly used as a replacement for spinach in almost any recipe.

The moringa family actually has 13 species found in tropical and subtropical climates. They all look very different, ranging from tiny plants to tall trees. The most widely cultivated species is Moringa oleifera.

Bottom line…

Try to stay as healthy as you can for as long as you can. And if you can help yourself with that process…then why not? Moringa is a good place to start.

3 John 1:2

2 Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.

One thing you should always pay close attention to is your health. Good health is more precious than gold and shouldn’t be taken lightly.

You can have all the money in the world but if you’re not healthy…what good is it? You can’t enjoy the benefits it brings. And you should try and stay as close to natural and its benefits as possible.

You’re not going to always get health benefits from food you can also get them from drinks, and green tea is one of them. Green tea is so good for you that it’s even got some researchers raving.

“It’s the healthiest thing I can think of to drink,” says Christopher Ochner, PhD. He’s a research scientist in nutrition at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital.

Of course, no one food or drink will protect you from disease. Your health is wrapped up in your lifestyle and your genes, so even if you drink green tea all day long, you also need to take care of yourself in other ways, like not smoking, being active, and eating a healthy diet.

Green Tea’s Biggest Benefit?

“It’s all about the catechin content, ” says Beth Reardon, RD, a Boston nutritionist. Catechins are antioxidants that fight and may even prevent cell damage. Green tea is not processed much before it’s poured into your cup, so it’s rich in catechins.

What the Research Shows

Green tea has been shown to improve blood flow and lower cholesterol. A 2013 review of many studies found green tea helped prevent a range of heart-related issues, from high blood pressure to congestive heart failure.

What’s good for the heart is usually good for the brain; your brain needs healthy blood vessels, too. In one Swiss study, MRI’s revealed that people who drank green tea had greater activity in the working-memory area of their brains. Green tea has also been shown to help block the formation of plaques that are linked to Alzheimer’s disease.

Green tea seems to help keep blood sugar stable in people with diabetes. Because catechins lower cholesterol and blood pressure, they can help protect against the damage a high-fat diet can cause, Ochner says.

What About Weight Loss?

Sorry but no drink or food melts the pounds off. While some evidence suggests that the active ingredient in green tea, EGCG, may help you drop a few pounds, other studies show no effect.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

19 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;

20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

About this ancient practice…

Dating back over 5000 years, yoga is considered by many to be the oldest defined practice of self-development.  The methods of classical yoga include ethical disciplines, physical postures, breathing control and meditation.

Derived from the Sanskrit word “yuji,” meaning yoke or union, yoga brings together mind and body.  It incorporates breathing exercises, meditation and poses designed to encourage relaxation and reduce stress.

Traditionally an Eastern practice, it’s now becoming popular in the West.  In fact, many companies, especially in Britain, are seeing the benefit of yoga, recognizing that relaxed workers are healthier and more creative, and are sponsoring yoga fitness programs.

Many studies have found that a little yoga in the morning, at night, or even on a lunch break, can minimize stress and increase productivity.  It is believed that yoga is so effective for stress relief because, aside from the physical benefits that yoga brings, it encourages a good mood, an increase in mindfulness, and a healthy dose of self-compassion.

Benefits of yoga…

The following is only a partial list of the benefits of yoga.

• Reduced Stress
• Sound Sleep
• Reduced Cortisol Levels
• Improvement of many Medical Conditions
• Allergy and Asthma Symptom Relief
• Lower Blood Pressure
• Smoking Cessation Help
• Lower Heart Rate
• Spiritual Growth
• Sense of Well-Being
• Reduced Anxiety and Muscle Tension
• Increased Strength and Flexibility
• Slowed Aging Process

Yoga’s benefits are so numerous, it gives a high payoff for the amount of effort involved.

What’s Involved with Yoga…

The practice of yoga involves stretching the body and forming different poses, while keeping breathing slow and controlled.  The body becomes relaxed and energized at the same time.

There are various styles of yoga, some moving through the poses more quickly, almost like an aerobic workout, and other styles relaxing deeply into each pose.  Some have a more spiritual angle, while others are used purely as a form of exercise.

The goal during yoga practice is to challenge yourself physically, but not to feel overwhelmed.  At this “edge,” the focus is on your breath while your mind is accepting and calm.

Enhancing Fitness…

Yoga is known for its ability to soothe tension and anxiety in the mind and body.  But it can also have an impact on a person’s exercise capacity.

Researchers studied a small group of sedentary individuals who had not practiced yoga before.  After eight weeks of practicing yoga at least twice a week for a total of 180 minutes, participants had greater muscle strength and endurance, flexibility and cardio-respiratory fitness.

Based on these findings, practicing yoga can be an effective way to boost strength and endurance, especially when used in combination with a regular exercise routine.

Not For Everyone…

Although many forms of yoga practice are safe, some are strenuous and may not be appropriate for everyone.  In particular, elderly patients or those with mobility problems may want to check first with a clinician before choosing yoga as a treatment option.

The Bottom Line…

The evidence is growing that yoga practice is a relatively low-risk, high-yield approach to improving overall health.  Finding the time to practice yoga just a few times per week may be enough to make a noticeable difference when it comes to your health.

Some Christians believe it is selfish to take time to exercise or view it as a waste of time, but our bodies are gifts from God.  We are stewards in a sense, so it’s important to take time to care for them.

By being fit and healthy, we are also better able to carry out our God-given vocation on earth.  So let’s focus on being healthy for God.

1 Corinthians 9:24

Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize?  So run, that ye may obtain.

 

 

 

 

 

Nature is God’s blueprint…and we see the wonders of his creation in all that he has done.  He had us in mind when he designed it and he placed us over it to take care of it.  When he designed nature and created us he also created natural cures and remedies for us.  His prescriptions for our ailments.

Natural is the way to go.  Whether it’s your look or healing it’s better for you.  More and more people are realizing this and here’s a look into why.

Let’s examine the natural look:

Egyptians, who were at the forefront of beauty, invented the first make-up over 4000 years ago.  Make-up was not limited to women back then, men wore it also.  They wore it for protection from the sun and to ward off eye infections.  Although their reasons are different than what ours are, it does the same thing, change your appearance.

Women spend a lot of money on make-up and devote countless hours to applying it.  Why is that?  Why is changing your appearance so important?

For some it’s to conceal areas they consider as imperfection and sometimes it’s legitimate.  But sometimes it’s something that’s so minute that no one would ever see it if the person doesn’t actually show it to them or mention it.

Some wear it because they want to mimic someone else, like a particular actress or maybe even a girl from school.  But how do men feel about women and make-up?

You’d be surprised…

Studies has actually shown that the majority of men, when asked their opinion about it, says less is more.  They say there’s something sexy about natural beauty.

They have no problem with you wearing make-up but prefer a fresh face look.  Some say they will support you if that’s what you really want but still insist that it shouldn’t be too heavy.  Most agree that simple and natural is the way to go.

So I think natural beauty wins out in this instance and that you should only wear make-up to enhance or highlight certain areas.  But if you’re someone who feels you have to wear it in order to feel beautiful then of course you should do whatever makes you happy…otherwise try the natural fresh face look…you just might like it.

Now let’s examine natural remedies:

Natural remedies are God’s prescriptions for the human race.  From the common cold to weight loss there’s  a solution for you.

Lord your discipline is good, for it leads to life and health.  You restore my health and allow me to live!

Isaiah 38:16

You don’t have to worry about how many times a day you have to take natural remedies or best of all, no side effects because there aren’t any.  No pills to pop and no damaging other organs in your body for something that’s totally unrelated.

The prescription for natural remedies is that you have to try them…and you have to be disciplined when you do.   They’re usually as close as going to your nearest grocery store.

If you have any doubt about whether to try the natural approach here’s 3 reasons why you should.

• Safety: It’s shocking to realize that over 200,000 people die in the U.S. each year from taking prescription medication.  Another 300,000 people die every year in hospitals as a result of medical negligence.  That’s over half a million people each year (and these statistics are conservative).  So how many die each year from using natural health remedies and alternative medicine…zero!
• Cheaper: Orthodox medical treatments can cost you a small fortune – private health insurance, the cost of medications, Medicare and doctor’s bills (even if you don’t pay for it directly, you pay for it in your taxes).  Natural cures and remedies are far cheaper.  Especially if you grow some of the home remedies in your garden.
• They work better: Yes, it’s a fact.  Natural cures and remedies work better than orthodox medical treatments.  Why?  Because they treat the underlying cause, not just the symptom.  Therefore, your body returns to it’s healthy state.

If you still have doubts about trying natural remedies and cures, you should see your doctor.  The ultimate goal is to do what’s best for you.

I have seen what they do, but I will heal them anyway! I will lead them.  I will comfort those who mourn, bringing words of praise to their lips.  May they have abundant peace, both near and far, says the Lord, who heals them.

Isaiah 57: 18-19

This raw natural liquid is thick and gold in color.  Some even refer to it as “Liquid Gold.”  It’s used by countless cultures all around the world.  You can’t go to a country and they don’t know what it is.  It’s naturally sweet, has numerous health benefits and can be used as both food and a medicine.

It gives you energy when you have none and protects you from some of the major diseases known to man.

If you’re not using it, it’s time to start doing so because it’s a remarkable healing agent for all sorts of ailments.  Although it is high in sugar, there are numerous antioxidants and organic compounds that make it well worth consuming.

What is it…

It’s honey and people have been using it for its antibacterial and antifungal properties since the ancient times.  In fact the Greeks, Romans and Egyptians documented the healing properties of honey as early as Aristotle’s mention of it in 384 BC.

Scientists are researching it’s benefits in relation to modern medicine, particularly in the healing of wounds.  It’s very popular all around the world.

What Makes it So Popular…

Most likely it is the ease with which it can be consumed.  And the fact that its natural helps it even more.  You can eat it directly, mix it in your tea or with a juice or any drink instead of sugar, or on breads and biscuits.  It is savored by all due to its taste as well as health benefits, making it extremely useful and versatile.

The health benefits of honey are quite impressive, and since it is such a concentrated source of nutrients, it can be added to different meals.  Honey is able to:

• Monitor blood sugar levels
• Increase energy in a healthy and sustainable way
• Soothe inflammation throughout the body
• Protect heart health
• Speed the healing process of wounds
• Prevent infections

There are many health benefits that comes with using honey and I’m sure you will be surprised by some of them.

Here are more health benefits and how you will improve by using it…

Antioxidant Properties

It contains nutraceuticals, which are very effective for the removal of free radicals from the body.  As a result, our body’s immunity is improved against many conditions, even potentially fatal ones like cancer or heart disease.

Studies have shown that honey contains the disease-fighting antioxidant flavonoids pinocembrin, pinostrobin and chrysin.  Pinocembrin supports enzyme activity, and many studies have shown that pinocembrin induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) of many types of cancer cells.

Laboratory research suggests that chrysin may increase the male hormone testosterone and improve bodybuilding results, but human research hasn’t found any effect on testosterone levels.

Skin Care

Milk and honey are often served together since both of these ingredients help in creating smooth, beautiful skin.  Consuming this combination every morning is a common practice in many countries for this very reason.

Speed Wound Healing

Significant research is being carried out to study its benefits in the treatment of wounds and the Nursing Standard explains some of these in wound management in the document.  These have been listed below:

Honey possesses antimicrobial properties.

It helps in promoting autolytic debridement.

It deodorizes malodorous wounds.

It speeds up the healing process by stimulating wound tissues.

It helps in initiating the healing process in dormant wounds.

It also helps in promoting moist wound healing.

These healing powers are not overstated.  The Waikato Honey Research Unit provides details about the worldwide research that is being carried out on the benefits of honey in medicine.  Furthermore, BBC reported in July of 2006 that doctors at the Christie Hospital in Didsbury, Manchester are planning to use it for faster recovery of cancer patients after surgery.  Such research will provide scientific evidence for the beliefs held by honey lovers all over the world and will help in propagating the benefits to more people.

The Antioxidants in it Can Help Lower Blood Pressure

Blood pressure is an important risk factor for heart disease, and honey may help lower it.  This is because it contains antioxidant compounds that have been linked to blood pressure lowering effects.

Studies in both rats and humans have shown modest reductions in blood pressure from consuming honey.

Improves Cholesterol

Having high LDL cholesterol levels is an important risk factor for heart disease.  It plays a major role in atherosclerosis, the fatty buildup in the arteries that can lead to heart attacks and strokes.

Interestingly, several studies have shown that honey can improve your cholesterol levels.  It reduces total and LDL cholesterol, while significantly raising HDL (the “good”) cholesterol.

For example, one study in 55 patients compared honey to table sugar.  It found that it caused a 5.8% reduction in LDL and a 3.3% increase in HDL.  It also caused weight loss of 1.3%, compared to sugar.

Honey Can Lower Triglycerides

Elevated blood triglycerides are another major risk factor for heart disease.  They are also a key sign of insulin resistance, a major driver of type 2 diabetes.

Triglyceride levels tend to increase on a diet that is high in sugar and refined carbs.

Interestingly, multiple studies have linked regular honey consumption with lower triglyceride levels, especially when it is used to replace sugar.

For example, one study that compared honey and sugar found 11-19% lower triglyceride levels in the honey group.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Raw honey contains substantial amounts of compounds such as flavonoids and other polyphenols which may function as anti-oxidants. In Malaysia, there are several types of honey, including Tualang, Nenas, Coconut and Gelam.  Among these, Tualang and Gelam honeys are well known in Malaysia for their anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.

In a recent study, it has been reported that honey reduced the activities of cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2, thus showing anti-inflammatory effects.

Furthermore, ingestion of diluted natural honey has produced reductions on concentrations of prostaglandins such as PGE2 (prostaglandin E2), PGF2a (prostaglandin F2a) and thromboxane B2 in plasma of normal individuals.

Interestingly, in an inflammatory model of colitis, honey was as effective as prednisolone treatment.  While NSAIDS and corticosteroids may have many serious side effects, honey has an anti-inflammatory action free from major side effects.

Cough Suppressant

Honey can be the all-natural cure when it comes to pesky colds.  A persistent cough that won’t go away can easily be remedied with two teaspoons of honey, according to a 2012 study published in the journal Pediatrics.  Children between the ages of 1 and 5 with nighttime cough due to colds coughed less frequently when they received two teaspoons of honey 30 minutes before bed.

The golden liquid’s thick consistency helps coat the throat while the sweet taste is believed to trigger nerve endings that protect the throat from incessant coughing.  Honey is believed to be as effective as the common cough suppressant ingredient dextromethorphan.  It can be used in treating upper respiratory tract infection.

Weight Loss

Though it has more calories than sugar, when consumed with warm water honey helps in digesting the fat stored in your body.  Similarly, honey with lemon juice or cinnamon helps in reducing weight.

Improves Athletic Performance

Recent research has shown that honey is an excellent ergogenic aid and helps in boosting the performance of athletes.  It is a great way to maintain blood sugar levels, muscle recuperation, and glycogen restoration after a workout, as well as regulate the amount of insulin in the body.

Pure honey is one of God’s natural healing agents.  Although it’s high in sugar, the numerous antioxidants and organic compounds make it well worth consuming.  But it should be pure.  Pure honey is unprocessed, which you may not find in the many major labels and brands.

Locally produced honey, otherwise known as raw (organic) honey, is considered the healthiest type of honey you could possibly buy.  It does not contain any pesticides or environmental pollutants.  Since it does not go through the traditional process for safety, these standards are upheld for honey to be considered organic.  Also, non-organic sugar or antibiotics are not used at any point in “organic honey.”

King Solomon states in Proverbs 24:13

My son, eat thou honey, because it is good; and the honeycomb, which is sweet to thy taste:

The more I think about it, the more I realize that back in the day the foods we ate played a big role in our overall health.  From veggies to fruit to meats, everything was as close to fresh and natural as it could be.

Growing up in South Florida, our house set on a little more than a quarter of an acre.  We had an oasis of fruit trees that we kids raided every day when they were in season.

We had three different types of mango trees (turpentine, peach, and banana), my favorite was turpentine.  There was also a guava tree, a mulberry tree and a coconut palm which all beared fruit.

We also had a seagrape and an almond tree which for some strange reason died.  Being that I was so young at the time, I didn’t question what happened.  Maybe they needed to be fertilized or something and my father didn’t do it…I’ll never know.

You never heard of or even knew someone who had cancer or anything else for that matter.  And being that this was only a little more than 50 years ago seems crazy to me that there are so many cases now.

Why is that?

I think, and this is my opinion, that it’s got a lot to do with all the preservatives they put into our food and the hormones they inject in the meats trying to plump it up or give it color.  They are creating and adding more chemicals to our food under the disguise of supply and demand.  Why?  There has always been supply and demand and our food was as close to fresh and natural as you could get.

Now they package some foods as organic and ask you to pay more for it.  It’s Ludacris how you’re being asked to pay more to get organic food.  Why?  Shouldn’t this be the way your food is grown anyway?

To them, it’s all about a dollar instead of being healthy and organic for consumption.  What have we come to as a nation where we’ve gotten to the point of genocide?  Not caring about our citizens being healthy and living a long life.

Thank goodness there’s something you can do to help strengthen you and your family’s bodies against these additives.  The answer is a condiment that’s sitting in most people’s pantries right now.  Including yours.

It’s just one of the many things we had at our fingertips back in the day that kept us healthy.

It’s vinegar!  Whether it’s apple cider or white, you’ll be surprised at the health benefits that come with this condiment.  This takes me back to my childhood.  As kids, we’d pull half ripe mangoes (usually turpentine) off the tree, peel them, cut them up and let them soak for about 30 minutes in white or apple cider vinegar that we diluted with water to weaken the strong taste and some salt and black pepper.

That was a delicacy to us…who knew that it was a health benefit?  Definitely not us.  We only knew that half ripe mangoes tasted good drenched in it.

Although all vinegars have health benefits, apple cider has the most.  Preferably the raw-unfiltered, unpasteurized and organic to be exact.

Here are 6 Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits…

1.) Regulates Blood Sugar Levels:

The ability of apple cider vinegar to help maintain normal blood sugar is one of the most well-studied apple cider vinegar benefits.

In one study, vinegar consumption was found to decrease blood sugar levels by an average of 31 percent after eating white bread.  Similarly, an animal study showed that giving diabetic rats apple cider vinegar for four weeks was found to significantly reduce blood sugar levels.

Apple cider vinegar may also increase insulin sensitivity.  Insulin is the hormone responsible for transporting sugar from the blood to the tissues where it can be used as fuel.  Sustaining high levels of insulin can cause Insulin resistance, which reduces its effectiveness and leads to high blood sugar and diabetes.

A study in Diabetes Care showed that vinegar ingestion helped significantly improve insulin sensitivity by up to 34 percent in those with either type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance. 

To keep blood sugar levels stable, try diluting one or two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in 8 ounces of water and consuming before meals.  Additionally, be sure to moderate carbohydrate intake, increase your consumption of fiber and protein foods and get in plenty of regular physical activity to drop blood sugar even more.

2.) Lowers Cholesterol:

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that can build up in the arteries, causing them to narrow and harden.  High blood cholesterol puts a strain on your heart, forcing it to work harder to push blood throughout the body.

Apple cider vinegar can promote heart health by helping to keep cholesterol levels low.  An animal study out of Iran showed that supplementing rats with apple cider vinegar was able to reduce bad LDL cholesterol while also increasing beneficial HDL cholesterol.

Besides including a tablespoon or two of apple cider vinegar in your diet each day, other ways to lower cholesterol fast include minimizing your intake of sugar and refined carbohydrates, including a good variety of healthy fats in your diet and eating a few servings of fish per week.

3.) Enhances Weight Loss:

Apple cider vinegar has been in the limelight recently with fitness gurus and natural health experts alike recommending an apple cider vinegar diet to help drop unwanted pounds quickly.  But is apple cider vinegar good for weight loss?

There is a plethora of research out there confirming the benefits of apple cider vinegar for weight loss.  In one study, consuming just two tablespoons per day of apple cider vinegar over 12 weeks resulted in nearly 4 pounds of weight loss with no other modifications to diet or lifestyle.

Studies show that apple cider vinegar may also increase satiety, which can help reduce intake and amp up weight loss.  In fact, one study showed that drinking apple cider vinegar actually decreased total caloric intake by up to 275 calories over the course of the day.

However, just because apple cider vinegar benefits weight loss doesn’t mean that it should be used as a quick fix all on its own.  In fact, if just drinking it alone, the amount of apple cider vinegar weight loss will be minimal.  To really see results, be sure to use it in combination with a healthy diet and active lifestyle.

4.) Improves Skin Health:

Apple cider vinegar doesn’t just affect your internal health; it has also been shown to treat acne and reduce scarring.  Certain strains of bacteria often contribute to the development of acne.  Vinegar is well-known for its antibacterial properties and has been shown to be effective against many strains of harmful bacteria.

Apple cider vinegar also contains specific components like acetic acid, lactic acid, succinic acid and citric acid, all of which have been shown to inhibit the growth of Propionibacterium acnes, the specific strain of bacteria responsible for causing acne.

These beneficial components may also reduce scarring.  A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology showed that treating acne scars with lactic acid for three months led to improvements in the texture, pigmentation, and appearance of treated skin as well as a lightening of scars.

Adding some probiotic foods into your diet, using healing masks and toners and keeping your skin well-moisturized are some other effective home remedies for acne.

5.) Reduces Blood Pressure:

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease.  It forces the heart to work harder, causing the heart muscle to weaken and deteriorate over time.

Apple cider vinegar benefits your blood pressure levels, helping to keep your heart healthy and strong.  An animal study in Japan showed that giving rats acetic acid, the main component in vinegar, resulted in reduced levels of blood pressure.  Another animal study had similar findings, demonstrating that vinegar effectively blocked the actions of a specific enzyme that raises blood sugar.

Other natural ways to lower blood pressure include increasing your intake of magnesium and potassium, upping your fiber intake and swapping the salt and processed foods for whole foods.

6.) Relieves Symptoms of Acid Reflux: 

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD or acid reflux, is a condition characterized by acid backflow from the stomach up into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn, belching and nausea.

Acid reflux is often a result of having low levels of stomach acid.  If this is the case for you, drinking apple cider vinegar may help provide relief from acid reflux symptoms by introducing more acid into the digestive tract to prevent backflow.

For best results, dilute one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in an 8-ounce glass of water and drink just before eating.  Additionally, remember to follow an acid reflux diet rich in vegetables, healthy fats and fermented foods to slash symptoms even more.

There are a few more ways vinegar can give your health a boost.  With that in mind, we must not forget some of our past eating habits that played a significant role in our overall health.  Food was more natural with fewer preservatives…period.

Hopefully we, as a nation, get back to putting the health of our citizens first and only sell natural and organic food that’s good for your health and don’t contribute to certain diseases.