The Olive Leaf is the symbol for Peace and Harmony. It is also known for creating harmonious conditions in the body. It has many beneficial properties that can benefit health in general, as well as help to eradicate illness. First used in ancient Egypt, olive leaf has undergone extensive research and testing throughout history and is now used mostly as an extract in tablet form.
Oleuropein is the active compound in the Olive Leaf, which is credited with lowering blood pressure and providing cardiovascular support. It helps to dilate the blood vessels, which allows for easier blood flow. In many cases of hypertension, this relieves extra burden on the heart, which would otherwise have to work harder to pump blood through constricted vessels.
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As a child, I couldn’t wait until I was old enough to try the coveted fizzy drink known as soda. And, when I was finally given a taste of the sugary liquid, I gagged. Soda was not what I thought it was going to be and studies are proving that it is definitely not what its manufacturers and advertisers make it out to be. Along with taking paint off of cars and leaching the calcium from your bones, diet soda has been linked to diabetes.
Diabetes can be an autoimmune disease (Type I), develop during pregnancy (gestational) or be caused by diet, weight and lifestyle (Type II). Although soda and sugary drinks are not good for any of the above (or anyone), the studies focus on Type II diabetes, where the body becomes insulin resistant. The pancreas is usually producing enough insulin, but the body is unable to metabolize it. The disease used to be limited to those who are older, obese, inactive and other certain ethnic backgrounds, but it is increasingly being diagnosed in young adults and children.
First Things First
Since about 80% of people with Type II diabetes are overweight, a study done by the University of Texas Health Science Center ironically claims that diet soda doesn’t actually help you lose weight. The center complied eight years of research to determine for each can of diet soda consumed, a person’s risk of obesity increased 41%. The study doesn’t wish to imply that diet soda causes obesity, but I think it’s clear that diet soda definitely doesn’t help you maintain your figure . And, if you want the skinny on aspartame, proceed to our past article on this dangerous sweetener used in almost all diet soda.
Diabetes Research
A 2007 study by Tufts University found insulin sensitivity in participants who drank diet soda and in 2009, the University did follow up research determining that sugar-sweetened soda may promote insulin-resistant phenotypes or characteristics . The University of Texas Health Sciences Center claims that daily diet soda consumption gives one a 67% greater risk of developing Type II diabetes and a 36% greater risk of developing metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is defined as a myriad of symptoms (low HDL, elevated triglycerides and obesity) that increases one’s risk of developing Type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease. I wasn’t a math major but wouldn’t that make one’s risk 103%, since metabolic syndrome increases one’s risk of developing Type II diabetes.
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Overeating burdens the body and is the prelude to illness. It also causes you to age prematurely. Sincere effort is required to control overeating and achieve satisfaction by eating just enough food to nourish you. The joy and satisfaction of eating does not have to be sacrificed to overcome overeating. Much to the contrary, improved health and a purer appreciation for food can be achieved.
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I was surprised to learn that lactose is present in many medications, despite the fact that 30 to 50 million Americans are allergic to the milk sugar. Since lactose is slightly sweet, water soluble and non-reactive, it is a common filler in prescription and over-the-counter drugs .
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Soapwort is a beautiful and fragrant perennial that has high levels of saponins. Saponins are mild cleansing agents. Within the plant, these saponins protect it from all pest and disease and Soapwort grows, worry-free, like a carpet across the ground and rocks. What some gardeners consider an intrusive nuisance has historically proven to be a very handy plant; and it is just as valuable today.
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In my Chinese herbal class this week, we discussed Kun Bu and Hai Zao, commonly known as Kelp and brown Seaweed (genus Sargassum). These cold and salty underwater plants are classified in the Materia Medica by Bensky, the go-to-source for Chinese herbs, as “Herbs that Cool and Transform Phlegm.” It sounds a little strange in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) language, but kelp and seaweed can treat a variety of western medical conditions if simply added to one’s diet.
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The most essential nutrient for the human body is Oxygen. It promotes a better quality of life. Oxygen is used throughout the body to energize and protect our existence. There are various ways to insure a high intake of oxygen; and in doing so, prevent illness and revitalize the body.
Did you know that no viruses or germs can survive in an oxygen rich environment? This is a very empowering fact that can direct us on the path to eliminating illnesses and restoring health. We can begin by incorporating practices and habits that will boost our oxygen levels.
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I can safely say that I have not done my fair share of research on excessive alcohol consumption and I swear I named my dog Martini after a movie character instead of the drink. But, we all have experienced a hangover at one time or another. Everyone knows the traditional hangover prevention tips like consume alcohol on a full stomach, drink a lot of water and get plenty of rest. And, there are some strange hangover remedies like taking a wasabi bath or eating deep fried canaries, but I think I’ll stick to the nourishing foods that have been proven to alleviate the symptoms .
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photo credit: —-*Valentina*—-
The beauty and vibrancy of the sunflower is illuminated in the sunflower seeds it gives birth to. While growing, sunflowers twist on their stems to follow the sun throughout the day, and their efforts award us with seeds that spring forth with an amazing array of nutrients. Sunflower seeds are a delicious treat that is sure to fortify our nutrients and help improve our health.
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