Posts Tagged potassium
Five easy steps to a more alkaline diet
Posted by TheRedPillGuide in Cancer, Health, News, Vitamins & Supplements on July 18, 2012
via: NaturalNews
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
By: PF Louis
[NaturalNews] Let’s go over some pH basic background before getting into how to maintain a neutral (7.0) or slightly alkaline (7.4) pH blood reading for optimum health.
The term pH literally means power Hydrogen. It’s a measurement of the concentration of hydrogen ions. Each number of the pH scale represents a ten-fold difference in that concentration. Your alkaline buffer system has to work hard to neutralize overall acidity.
Food pH measurements can be deceptive. Just because a citrus fruit or apple cider vinegar measures a low or acidic pH doesn’t mean it is acid yielding.
The key word is yielding, and it points to the metabolic result after ingestion. Even squeezing lemon or lime into a glass of water creates an alkaline yielding liquid.
Testing your pH by saliva or urine will result in slightly lower (acid) readings than your blood pH. Urine, especially from your first urination, will tend to be even lower as your kidneys have worked on eliminating acidity.
Not to worry if you’re getting readings in the high sixes from either test. Different organs may have different pH readings than your blood reading as well.
Acidosis occurs when the blood reading goes below seven and stays there. This is usually what kills cancer patients, especially those who are poisoned with chemo or radiation.
Five simple approaches for an alkaline yielding diet
Your alkaline buffer system is designed to take care of the inevitable alkaline/acid yielding food mix. But overworking your buffer will deplete it. Here’s a list of acid and alkaline yielding foods to get an idea of what they are.
Read the “note” at the bottom of the list (http://www.naturalnews.com/Report_acid_alkaline_pH_5.html).
(1) Try to balance your diet with a 60/40 ratio of alkaline yielding foods to acid yielding, then up the ratio to 80/20. Typically, standard American diets (SAD) consist of mostly acid yielding foods. Fake fats, sugar, high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), bleached white breads and pastries and so on are extremely acid yielding.
Focus on organic green veggies, smoothies, and juicing as well as green super foods such as chlorella. Fruits of all types, even citrus fruits considered acid, are all alkaline yielding.
Radiation – How to protect yourself from its effects safely and naturally
Posted by TheRedPillGuide in Health, News, Vitamins & Supplements on July 17, 2012
via: NaturalNews
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
By: Lloyd Burrell
[NaturalNews] Whether concern stems from the possible exposure to drifting radiation from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Japan or from every day sources of non-ionizing radiation (i.e., cell phones, computers, Wi-Fi, smart meters, etc.), exposure to radiation is a reality.
The constant exposure to electromagnetic fields results in DNA fragmentation which can lead to cancers of the parotid salivary gland, the thyroid gland, and the head. Kids are even more susceptible, with evidence of brain and spinal tumors appearing in children exposed to radiation.
Powerwatch, a non-profit organization prominent in the United Kingdom Electromagnetic Field and Microwave Radiation health debate, shares further consequences resulting from exposure to radiation, including:
• Cognitive dysfunction
• Failed pregnancies
• Certain types of dementia
• Overtiredness
• Compromised immune system function
• Headaches
Protection from radiation and its impending consequences is imperative as well as feasible through safe, natural sources.
Potassium iodide
Potassium iodide, simply composed of the elements potassium and iodine, is the most familiar solution for protection from radiation exposure. Potassium iodide, taken in supplement form, is also used to treat overactive thyroid.
While natural, does it work? Is it safe?
Potassium iodide is effective, yet contraindicated for a multitude of medications, can damage the thyroid, and brings with it other side effects in the form of:
• Red, bumpy, itchy skin
• Painful joints
• Facial and body swelling
After using potassium iodide for a long period of time, a series of other serious health complications may also surface.
The natural approach
A strong, healthy thyroid is the best protection from radioactive iodine-131 (nuclear power plant steam), and EMF exposure. Steven Schacter, author of Fighting Radiation with Food, Herbs and Vitamins, explains, “If sufficient amounts of natural iodine are available, radioactive iodine will not be absorbed.” Schacter advises eating seaweed (kelp) to obtain natural iodine.
Eating foods naturally high in iodine will supply the thyroid with adequate amounts of iodine, discouraging the absorption of radioactive iodine, and protecting it from EMF damage.
These foods are high in iodine and part of a natural, safe approach.
• Other seaweeds and sea vegetables
• Cranberries or cranberry juice
• Potatoes with the skin
• Beans – especially navy beans
• Himalayan crystal salt
For protection from cancers induced from radiation eat a variety of:
Dark leafy greens and orange starchy foods – (sweet potatoes, winter squash, carrots).
Additional protection:
• Milk thistle – a proven detoxifier
• Siberian ginseng – facilitates overall cellular health, strengthens body against all types of stress, including cancer treatments
• Curcumin – antioxidant and scientifically proven anti-inflammatory, protects and helps tissue healing
• Ecklonia cava – antioxidant seaweed extract
• Drink plenty of pure water every day to eliminate toxins
• Visual imagery – the power of positive thinking through the visualization of wellness throughout the body
Loss of minerals
Radiation exposure sets the stage for the release of specific minerals from the body which are necessary for optimal protection from electromagnetic fields.
These minerals are:
• Potassium
• Lithium
• Magnesium
• Copper
• Calcium
• Selenium – especially important as a co-factor of iodine for cell regeneration and protection
Because the body works synergistically to heal and protect, consume a variety of organic, whole plant-based foods in a variety of colors to guarantee a good supply of antioxidants and the elimination of free radicals.
Multi-vitamin supplements are a poor substitute but may be used from time to time to cover any missing nutrients.
It’s not practical in today’s society to completely eradicate all sources of radiation; however, the best protection comes from minimizing exposure in the first place. This approach along with the others mentioned here offers the best scenario for minimizing the dangerous effects of radiation exposure.
Sources for this article include:
http://bjr.birjournals.org/content/77/914/97.full
Naturally Lower Blood Pressure with Papaya
Posted by TheRedPillGuide in Health, News, Vitamins & Supplements on July 17, 2012
via: NaturalSociety
by: Lisa Garber
July 16, 2012
“Let thy food be thy medicine.” If Hippocrates could see us popping pills made in a laboratory for treating the high blood pressure we get from a poor diet, hope would likely be lost. These drugs—like many allopathic remedies—come with side effects, safety hazards, and lighter pocketbooks. Meanwhile, there are numerous ways to naturally lower blood pressure, with food and dietary changes being the most beneficial. One such food that has been shown to be a fantastic hypertension aid is papaya.
Papayas are High in Potassium
We’ve already extolled the natural benefits of papaya leaf extract. It’s anti-inflammatory, breaks down proteins and aids digestion, and strengthens the immune system. An article in an issue of Phytotherapy Research also says that a compound in papayas can also naturally lower blood pressure, and may have a future in an anti-hypertension treatment plan.
About 1 in 3 American adults experience high blood pressure today due to smoking, obesity, salty diets, and other poor lifestyle choices. Hypertension is a major risk factor for stroke, congestive heart failure, kidney disease, and heart disease, which is responsible for 1 in 4 deaths in America. The outlook seems bleak.
There are easy (and cheap) solutions, however, for treating high blood pressure. One papaya contains 781 mg of potassium, a mineral and electrolyte that helps control blood pressure. In fact, the American Heart Association recommends we each get 4,700 mg of potassium a day to regulate our blood pressure.
Ward off cancer, protect against radiation, and ease irritable bowel syndrome with mint
Posted by TheRedPillGuide in Cancer, Health, News, Vitamins & Supplements on July 11, 2012
via: NaturalNews
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
By: Carolanne Wright
[NaturalNews] A seemingly humble herb, mint offers a variety of exceptional health enhancing features. Research has shown that certain varieties of mint have properties that help defend against cancer and damaging radiation. Not only does this herb offer protective benefit, but it also provides those who suffer from irritable bowl syndrome much needed relief.
Mentha piperita (peppermint) is native to the Mediterranean and nutrient rich. The fresh herb contains ample amounts of vitamin A, C, B12, K, along with folic acid, thiamine, and riboflavin. Mint also provides many essential minerals such as calcium, copper, fluoride, iron, potassium, selenium, and zinc. The essential oils found in mint include menthol, menthone, and menthol acetate.
Powerful relief for distressing symptoms
Peppermint oil offers new hope for individuals suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Italian researchers found that 75 percent of patients participating in their study had substantial improvement in their IBS related symptoms when peppermint oil capsules were taken for four weeks. It is believed that the menthol in the mint blocks calcium channels, thus relaxing the muscles of the intestinal wall. This helps to relieve the abdominal cramping and pain, diarrhea, bloating, and constipation associated with the disease.
A broad spectrum protective herb
Peppermint holds promise as a potent herb against cancer and the effects of radiation. According to a study in 2010, liquid extracts of peppermint were shown to protect the gastrointestinal and hemopoietic systems from radiation. The healing properties in the extract are found to be metal chelating, antimutagenic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory. Additionally, DNA repair processes are enhanced. Tumors of the pancreas and liver are particularly vulnerable to the bio-active components of peppermint. Cancers of the skin, lung, and colon are also inhibited by this herb.
In another study, researchers at the University of Salford found that the extract of Scutellaria barbata (Skullcap barbat) starves tumors. It attacks the blood vessels feeding the tumor, blocking the availability of oxygen and nutrients that allow tumors to grow. The extract is very selective in targeting only blood vessels associated with the tumor, leaving normal vessels that feed healthy tissue unharmed. As noted by a spokeswoman for Cancer Research UK, “Scutellaria barbata has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat several illnesses including certain types of cancer.” Scutellaria barbata is a member of the Lamiaceae (mint) family of botanicals and is native to China.
Whether seeking to alleviate the discomfort of IBS or protection against cancer and radiation, mint provides a simple, effective, and time-honored solution.
Sources for this article include:
“Health benefits of peppermint” Healthbeat, Harvard Health Publications. Retrieved on June 26, 2012 from: http://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/HEALTHbeat_073107.htm
“Mint leaf starves cancer to death” BBC News, Friday, July 9, 2004. Retrieved on June 26, 2012 from:http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/3870231.stm
“5 Health Benefits of the Peppermint Herb” Fitday. Retrieved on June 26, 2012 from: http://www.fitday.com
“Mint – A Powerful Antioxidant” Karen Stephenson, April 8, 2009, Suite101. Retrieved on June 26, 2012 from: http://suite101.com/article/mint-a-powerful-antioxidant-a108135
“Peppermint Herb Nutrition Facts” Nutrition and You. Retrieved on June 26, 2012 from: http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/peppermint.html
“Radioprotective potential of mint: A brief review” Manjeshwar S Baliga, Suresh Rao, Journal of Cancer Research and Therapeutics, 2010, Vol.6. Issue 3.pp 255-262. Retrieved on July 2, 2012 from: http://www.cancerjournal.net
“How to Grow Skullcap Barbat” Eulalia Palomo, eHow. Retrieved on July 4, 2012 from: http://www.ehow.com/how_8333761_grow-skullcap-barbat.html
About the author:
Carolanne enthusiastically believes if we want to see change in the world, we need to be the change. As a nutritionist, natural foods chef, and wellness coach, Carolanne has encouraged others to embrace a healthy lifestyle of organic living, gratefulness, and joyful orientation for over 13 years. Through her website www.Thrive-Living.net she looks forward to connecting with other like-minded people from around the world who share a similar vision.
Parsley is an effective antioxidant, diuretic, blood tonic, and more
Posted by TheRedPillGuide in Health, News, Vitamins & Supplements on February 23, 2012
Natural News
Thursday, February 23, 2012
By: Donna Earnest Pravel
[NaturalNews] Parsley, that little piece of leafy green garnish that seems to decorate every plate in restaurants all across the U.S., is actually a serious herb which packs a powerful punch. Most people smile and ask sheepishly, “Are we supposed to eat it?” If it is certified organic parsley, then the answer is “yes.” Parsley leaf is loaded with antioxidants and is a fantastic diuretic. The herb is a wonderful kidney aid, helping to get rid of kidney stones and edema (swelling), as well as healing any urinary tract infection or inflammation. Parsley root is high in calcium, iron, and B complex vitamins.
The antioxidants in parsley are able to combat oxidative stress in vivo
The British Journal of Nutrition published a medical study to measure the antioxidant capabilities of parsley (Petroselinum crispum). Fourteen people ate a restricted diet for two weeks which was high in parsley, but low in other foods containing flavones and other natural sources of antioxidants. Urinary excretion of the flavone apigenin was measured before and during the ingestion of parsley. Apigenin levels were noticeably higher when parsley was added to the diet. The researchers noted that when the subjects were on the restricted diet, their oxidative stress markers rose. However, when the people added parsley during the second week of study, the parsley was able to reverse these numbers somewhat.
Parsley is a scientifically proven diuretic
In 2002, the Journal of Ethnopharmacology published a study confirming the diuretic effects of parsley, as claimed for years in folk medicine literature. Rats were given parsley seed tea to drink. Over a twenty-four hour period, the rats had a marked increase in urinary volume. The scientists believed that parsley works as a diuretic due to a mechanism in the herb which blocks the re-absorption of sodium and potassium. This causes more water to flow via osmosis, and hence, a greater urinary volume.
Herbalists use parsley for kidneys, joint problems, nerves, and more
Dr. John R. Christopher, one of the greatest master herbalists of the twentieth century, used parsley in a variety of ways. He used the herb not only for all kidney and bladder issues, but also for jaundice and sexually-transmitted diseases. Dr. Christopher used parsley for water retention (edema), and suggested parsley root tea for stiff fingers and other joint issues. He said gallstones could be removed by drinking a pint of fresh parsley tea every day. The herb is also calming to the nerves and adrenal glands. Dr. Christopher recommended at least two quarts of strong parsley tea per day for these issues, or even up to a cup of tea every hour. To make fresh parsley tea, add a large handful of parsley to a pint of boiling water. Cover, steep, and drink the tea throughout the day.
According to Dr. Christopher, fresh parsley juice is a very potent healer. Parsley juice is an effective blood tonic, but it should be diluted with some other kind of fresh, organic juice, such as carrot juice. No more than an ounce or two of parsley juice should be taken at any one time.
