MEDICINAL FOODS – NATURALLY HEALTHY
Did you know that eating certain foods or herbs along with doctor recommendations and a well-balanced diet can help prevent and treat certain chronic diseases? Physicians are now “prescribing” foods to help combat or treat chronic conditions, diseases, and weight management. Some of the most powerful medicines in the world are masquerading around as foods and spices. Listed below are some great options to keep stock in your kitchen to help treat certain conditions.
Remember: One food might be recommended as treatment for a specific ailment, but please keep in mind that a single food item doesn’t work in isolation. There is a balance.
SOME FOODS THAT DOUBLE AS MEDICINE
Chia Seeds for High Cholesterol
Chia seeds are nutrient-dense and often referred to as a “superfood.” These tiny seeds can be added to many foods without a noticeable change in flavor while giving your diet a major nutrient impact! When it comes to lowering your cholesterol, many studies have demonstrated the positive effects chia seeds can have on a person’s numbers. Add the seeds to a smoothie, yogurt, or juice in the morning and you will make a major impact on your diet.
Steel-Cut Oatmeal for High LDL Cholesterol
As mentioned above, chia seeds are a great way to lower cholesterol and so is oatmeal! Oatmeal is high in soluble fiber which lowers LDL cholesterol. Mix chia seeds in with your oatmeal to maximize the cholesterol-lowering impact.
Hibiscus Tea for High Blood Pressure
Hibiscus tea is an herbal tea that contains anthocyanins which could help lower blood pressure. A study completed by Tufts University in Boston showed that drinking hibiscus tea blends lowered systolic blood pressure by an average of seven points. This change may not seem like a lot but studies have shown that even the slightest changes in blood pressure, when maintained over time, will reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack.
Buckwheat Honey for a Cough
Buckwheat honey is derived from the bee nectar of flowers of the buckwheat grain. This honey can be used to ease early symptoms of a cold or cough by calming the inflamed membranes. Using buckwheat honey for a cough suppressant is beneficial for children over the age of 1 year compared to over-the-counter cough suppressants and antihistamines.
Beans for High Blood Sugar Levels
Beans are loaded with fiber which may leave a person feeling “full” longer. Because of their high fiber content, blood sugar maintains a consistent level within the blood and can also help manage high cholesterol. Beans are also rich in magnesium!
Pickled Foods for Diarrhea
Pickled foods include fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, and pickled vegetables. These foods contain living bacteria that help maintain the health of the digestive tract. The “good” bacteria in the foods can be used to prevent and treat antibiotic-associated diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, eczema, and allergies.
Turmeric for Arthritis
Turmeric has a warm, bitter flavor and can be used to treat inflammatory conditions. Nutritionists recommend adding black pepper to turmeric to maximize the disease-fighting benefits. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric is absorb more with addition of pepper and can deliver positive health effects.
Salmon for Inflammation
Salmon is one of the best dietary sources of Omega-3 fatty acids which is an important part in treating inflammatory or autoimmune conditions. Salmon and/or other fatty fish should be eaten a few times a week and should be cooked, boiled or baked rather than fried. Fish oil supplements are a great substitute for those who may not be a fan of fish.
Peppermint for IBS
Peppermint is a great alternative treatment to treating Irritable bowel syndrome and abdominal cramping. Peppermint can be found in supplements, essential oils, or tea forms and is less toxic method to treatment compared to other medical therapies. Peppermint oil is also effective in the treatment of nausea, headaches, or motion sickness. Placing drops of oil on the wrists, neck, or behind the ears can help soothe the body from those ailments.
Dishin’ Out Healthy – Health Educator: Nichelle
Let Your Food be Your Medicine
