Cranberry Benefits

Cranberry juice has evolved, much like Aloe vera, as a quintessential American folk remedy; so well-known as a cure for urinary infections that it prompted scientists to begin to investigate its value more than seventy years ago. Recent studies have shown it can reduce the ability of E. coli to adhere to the lining of the bladder and urethra, reducing the potential for urinary tract infections (UTIs). Cranberries are also high in antioxidants and contain a potent vasodilator.

Cranberry's medicinal properties have been recognised for centuries. Native Americans used raw cranberries as a wound dressing. Early settlers from England learned to use the berry both raw and cooked for a number of ailments including appetite loss, digestive problems, blood disorders, and scurvy (vitamin C deficiency that causes weakness, gum disease, and spontaneous bleeding in the skin).

The cranberry fruit is high in antioxidants, partly from substances called proanthocyanidins. Antioxidants scavenge damaging particles in the body known as free radicals. Environmental toxins (including ultraviolet light, radiation, cigarette smoking, and air pollution) can increase the number of free radicals in the body, which are believed to contribute to the aging process as well as the development of a number of health problems such as heart disease, cancer, and infections. Antioxidants can neutralise free radicals and may reduce or even help prevent some of the damage they cause. Cranberries are an excellent source of vitamin C as well, another important antioxidant. The juice is excellent against scurvy and to allay fevers. Cranberries also contain a potent vasodilator and have been used for breathing problems.

Several studies have measured high levels of antioxidants in people after drinking cranberry juice. Research is underway to determine if the antioxidant ability of cranberries will translate into protection from heart disease. Adding to cranberry's potential health benefits, a recent study found that an extract of cranberry inhibited an enzyme associated with a reduction in cancer risk.

In the early 1920s, American scientists discovered that people who eat large amounts of cranberries have more acid in their urine than those who do not eat high amounts of the berry. Because bacteria cannot survive in an acidic environment, the researchers speculated that a diet rich in cranberries may help prevent and treat urinary tract infections (UTIs), which are commonly caused by bacteria known as Escherichia coli. In time, the popularity of cranberry for UTIs soared and many women reported satisfactory results from drinking cranberry juice.


UTIs are a serious health problem affecting millions of people each year. Infections of the urinary tract are common; only respiratory infections occur more often. Each year, UTIs account for about 9.6 million doctor visits. One woman in five develops a UTI during her lifetime; UTIs in men are not so common. Nearly 20% of women who have a UTI will have more than one and 30% of those will have more than two. Most infections arise from one type of bacteria, Escherichia coli, which normally live in the colon. Usually, the latest infection stems from a strain or type of bacteria that is different from the infection before it, indicating a separate infection.

NIH-funded research suggests that one factor behind recurrent UTIs may be the ability of bacteria to attach to cells lining the urinary tract. Current belief is that the prevention of UTI is achieved by inhibiting the infecting bacteria, E. coli, from adhering to uroepithelial cells (Sobota 1984; Schmidt and Sobota 1988; Zafriri 1989; Ofek 1991; Howell 1998). Bacterial adherence to these cells is a critical step in the development of infection, without which the causative bacteria are flushed, preventing their colonisation of the urinary tract.

An Israeli research group looked at chemical fractions of a number of fruit juices. They found that fructose, a common sugar in many fruit juices, had some anti-adherence effect on the bacterium. They also found that a nondialyzable polymeric compound isolated from cranberry juice (and blueberry juice) had the most potent effect. In 1991 Israeli researchers, publishing in The New England Journal of Medicine, duplicated the previous studies and confirmed the results.

Further laboratory studies indicated that cranberries also prevent another microorganism known as Helicobacter pylori from adhering to cell walls. H. plyori is a bacteria that can cause stomach ulcers, so it is possible that cranberries may eventually prove to play a role in the prevention of this condition. Studies also suggest that cranberries may help prevent bacteria from adhering to gums and around the teeth.

Cranberry also appears to be more effective than certain probiotics in preventing recurrent UTIs. They are often used as a supplement to try to prevent or fight UTIs.
Properties: Anti-oxidant, anti-bilious, anti-putrid, diuretic, laxative, refrigerant, sub-astringent, vasodilator

Indicated for: Candida and other bacterial conditions, diarrhea, dropsy, fevers, scurvy, stomach ulcers, urinary tract infections (UTIs) of the bladder and urethra, urolithiasis.

Cranberries contain chemicals called oxalates, which may contribute to the formation of kidney stones. Drinking large amounts of cranberry juice (more than about a litre per day) or taking concentrated cranberry supplements may increase the risk of developing kidney stones. Therefore, individuals who have or who ever have had kidney stones should not consume very large amounts of cranberries or use supplemental cranberry products.

The use of supplemental cranberry products are not recommended for individuals who are taking warfarin.

 

Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis)

 

Aloe vera is one of the only known natural vegetarian sources of Vitamin B12, and it contains many minerals vital to the growth process and healthy function of all the body's systems. Numerous studies worldwide indicate that it is a general tonic for the immune system, helping it to fight illness of all kinds. Various research studies are underway to explore the potential of the components to boost immunity and combat the HIV virus, and to treat certain types of cancer (particularly leukemia). It may even have a role to play in managing diabetes.

Over 200 worldwide scientific research papers have been published on the effects. The three main categories of research include anti-inflammatory, anti- bacterial, and anti-viral actions of the plant. The juice is said to soothe digestive tract irritations such as colitis, ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome. It's ability to encourage the release of pepsin (a gastric juice enzyme necessary for digestion) when the stomach is full is a possible reason for its ulcer-healing effects (Journal of the American Osteopathic Society, 1963, vol.62). In one study, oral use for six months helped mitigate asthma symptoms in almost half of the participants. Eleven of twenty-seven patients studied who drank Aloe reported feeling better at the end of the study. Researchers think that results might be due to stimulation of the immune system, as well as naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agents in the plant.

In 1994, the US Food and Drug Administration approved Aloe vera for the treatment of HIV. On-going studies worldwide show that taken in highly concentrated doses can stimulate the production of white blood cells that may help fight viruses and also tumours.

Aloe vera contains protein, calcium, magnesium, zinc, vitamins A, B12 and E, essential fatty acids and is naturally rich in:

Vitamin C which helps maintain tone of blood vessels and promotes good circulation and is essential to the health of the adrenal gland which supports our body in times of stress.

Amino acids which are chains of atoms constructing protein in our body.

Enzymes, which are the life-principle in every live, organic atom and molecule of natural raw food, rejuvenate aged tissues and promote healthy skin.

Germanium which is a mineral that some health authorities claim therapeutic benefits for: immunodeficiency, pain, cardiac disorders, circulatory disturbances and eye problems.


The juice is said to be one of the finest body cleansers, cleaning morbid matter from the stomach, liver, kidneys, spleen, bladder, and is considered the finest, known colon cleanser. Studies have shown that it is healing and soothing in the relief of indigestion, stomach distress and ulcers. People claim relief from arthritis, bladder and kidney infections; leg cramps, constipation, hemorrhoids, insomnia, and for vaginitis, it is said to be an excellent vaginal douche. An excellent internal tonic for energy and well being Aloe juice may add greatly to the strength of the food fed, digestive tract, skin, and overall good health and happiness.

It is also used to ease heartburn, ulcers, diverticular disorders, and other types of digestive upset. It is used as an anti-inflammatory and may be taken internally as a remedy for certain digestive complaints. European folk medicine calls for using the juice to relieve heartburn and ulcers. Preliminary research has shown promising results. Clinical trials in Japan indicate that certain compounds in the herb reduce the secretion of stomach juices and the formation of lesions.

Animal studies and anecdotal reports claim that drinking the juice or taking it as a tablet or capsule can reduce swelling and inflammation in arthritic joints. Drinking the juice may also help those asthmatic patients who are not dependent on cortico-steroids.

In 1997, University of San Antonio researcher Jeremiah Herlihy, Ph.D., conducted a study to observe any negative effects of drinking it daily. Rather than exhibiting negative effects, however, test animals receiving daily Aloe showed a remarkable reduction in leukemia, heart disease, and kidney disease. Dr. Herlihy concluded, "We found no indication of harm done to the rats even at high levels." In fact, the Aloe-drinking animals actually lived 25 percent longer than those in the control group (IASC Conference, Texas, 1997).

There is no single ingredient that makes it very potent and healthful. Researcher Robert Davis, Ph.D., an endocrinologist-biologist, explains that fifteen different compound groups of nutrients work together to make the plant effective. This means that Aloe vera's effects cannot be synthesized easily in a laboratory. On the upside, this makes the plant useful across a wide spectrum of circumstances. And because the various elements that make it effective are nutrients rather than drugs, the juice may complement medical treatments. In fact some cancer patients state that Aloe vera seems to reduce nausea, increase energy, and may help to minimize low blood counts caused by chemotherapy or radiation.

Aloe vera may help adults, children, and even pets receive more value from daily foods and supplements.

Aloe vera Herb Information / Side Effects

Latin Name: L. Aloe vera, Aloe barbadensis var miller, Aloe vera var. chinensis, Aloe vulgaris, Aloe vera var. lanzae, Aloe indica, Aloe barbadensis var. chinensis, Aloe vera var. wratislaviensis, Aloe elongata, Aloe vera var. littoralis, Aloe perfoliata var. vera, Aloe perfoliata var. barbadensis, Aloe flava, Aloe chinensis, Aloe barbadensis, Aloe lanzae.

Common Names: Aloe vera, True Aloe

Suggested Properties: Anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and energy tonic

Indicated for: Digestive tract irritations such as colitis, ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome, cleansing stomach, liver, kidneys, spleen, bladder and colon, arthritis, asthma, bladder and kidney infections, cancer, constipation, diverticular disorders, haemorrhoids, heartburn, heart disease, HIV, immune stimulation, indigestion, insomnia, kidney disease, leg cramps, leukemia, skin health, stomach distress, tumours, vaginitis, vaginal douche, viruses, white blood cell production and general health tonic.

If you are using oral corticosteroids, such as beclomethasone, methylprednisolone, or prednisone, it is important not to overuse or misuse Aloe vera juice. A potassium deficiency can develop, and you may experience toxic effects from the medication.

Although it is removed, in practice Aloe vera juice may sometimes still contain tiny quantities of the laxative compound found in aloe latex. Should you begin to have cramps or diarrhea do not ingest any more of the juice.

Allergies to aloe vera are very rare. Yet any food can be a potential allergen. Test a small amount on the inner arm to see if any reaction takes place. If no irritation on the skin is observed then it is generally tolerated. If ingestion causes diarrhea, then reduce the amount you ingest, increasing use slowly over several days until the desired amount is tolerated.

 

Aloe Vera Juice for Acid Reflux

Many people have heard about using aloe to soothe sunburns or other minor burns on their skin, but they may not have thought about treating internal burns with aloe as well. Acid reflux is a type of internal "burn" that can be treated with aloe vera juice.

In fact, natural aloe vera can be a very effective way to soothe your stomach and esophagus, as well as treat other symptoms that are associated with acid reflux.

Acid Reflux
 
When a person is experiencing acid reflux symptoms, their stomach acids are actually moving up their esophagus. These stomach acids are potent because they are designed to digest the food that moves through our digestive system. When the esophagus walls come in contact with the acid on a regular basis, they can become burned and scar tissue may begin to form.

There are many different methods that can be used to treat acid reflux, including home remedies and over the counter treatments. Many people choose to implement home remedies in order to avoid the side effects that may be caused by the medications.

Aloe Vera Juice
 
Aloe is an easy and effective way to soothe and heal burns. The best way to treat acid reflux with aloe is by drinking a little bit of aloe on a daily basis. If you don’t like the taste of the aloe, try mixing it with just a little bit of grape or apple juice, or any other type of juice that is non-acidic.

When you drink the aloe, it heals your esophagus in addition to soothing the stomach. So, it is a good idea to continue drinking the aloe even after your heartburn symptoms have decreased. Most people have damage in their esophagus that needs to heal and following a regular treatment of aloe vera juice can help the entire digestive system to heal.


 

10 Health Benefits of Ginger

Ginger has been used as a natural remedy for many ailments for centuries. Now, science is catching up and researchers around the world are finding that ginger works wonders in the treatment of everything from cancer to migraines. Here are ten health benefits of this powerful herb.

Ovarian Cancer Treatment
Ginger may be powerful weapon in the treatment of ovarian cancer. A study conducted at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that ginger powder induces cell death in all ovarian cancer cells to which it was applied.

Colon Cancer Prevention
A study at the University of Minnesota found that ginger may slow the growth of colorectal cancer cells.

Morning Sickness
A review of several studies has concluded that ginger is just as effective as vitamin B6 in the treatment of morning sickness.

Motion Sickness Remedy
Ginger has been shown to be an effective remedy for the nausea associated with motion sickness.

Reduces Pain and Inflammation
One study showed that ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and is a powerful natural painkiller.

Heartburn Relief
Ginger has long been used as a natural heartburn remedy. It is most often taken in the form of tea for this purpose.

Cold and Flu Prevention and Treatment
Ginger has long been used as a natural treatment for colds and the flu. Many people also find ginger to be helpful in the case of stomach flus or food poisoning, which is not surprising given the positive effects ginger has upon the digestive tract.

Migraine Relief
Research has shown that ginger may provide migraine relief due to its ability to stop prostaglandins from causing pain and inflammation in blood vessels.

Menstrual Cramp Relief
In Chinese medicine, ginger tea with brown sugar is used in the treatment of menstrual cramps.

Prevention of Diabetic Nephropathy
A study done on diabetic rats found that those rats given ginger had a reduced incidence of diabetic nephropathy (kidney damage).


 

Health Benefits of Onions

 

Onions have been enjoyed for their nutritional value and flavor for millennia. The workers who built the pyramids were fed onions and pharaohs were buried with them. Believing in the onion's benefits to the blood, the Greeks ate large quantities and Roman gladiators were rubbed down with onion to firm their muscles. In the Middle Ages, onions were used to pay the rent and were even given as gifts.




Bone Support
Studies have shown that the copper content in onion increases bone density and could particularly benefit women of menopausal age experiencing bone loss. There is also evidence to suggest that the risk of hip fracture in menopausal women may be lowered through frequent onion consumption.

Connective Tissue Health
Onion’s high sulfur content might be of special benefit to our connective tissue, which requires sulfur for its creation. All glycosaminoglycans (the foremost family of molecules found in the ground substance of our connective tissue) are sulfated.

Anti-Cancer
Onion has repeatedly been shown to lower the risk of colorectal cancer, laryngeal cancer, oral cancer, esophageal cancer, and ovarian cancer even when consumed even in modest amounts such as 1/2 cup of onion per day.

Cardiovascular Health
Evidence exists to show that onion's sulfur compounds may have an anti-clotting effect and may help prevent the undesirable coagulation of blood platelet cells. Further evidence shows that sulfur compounds in onion can lower cholesterol and triglycerides levels in the blood, and advance the function of cell membranes in red blood cells.

Anti-Inflammatory
The antioxidants in onions provide us with anti-inflammatory benefits, impeding the oxidation of fatty acids in the body. Having lower levels of oxidized fatty acids in the body produces fewer pro-inflammatory messaging molecules and levels of inflammation are kept in check.

Antibacterial
Hand in hand with its sulfur-containing compounds, the flavonoid quercetin in onion assists in providing antibacterial benefits. Studies show onion aids in resistance to the bacteria Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus (commonly associated with tooth cavities). Onion also supports resistance to bacteria that cause gum disease, including Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia.

 

5 Foods that Cause Bloating

If you experience bloating and gas on a regular basis, it is most likely because of the foods that you are eating. Here are five foods that cause bloating.

Dairy
Dairy products contain lactose, which causes many people to be bloated. In fact, a large percentage of the population is lactose intolerant, and they don't realize that dairy products are causing minor digestive problems. Try cutting out cheese, milk, ice cream and yogurt, and if the bloating goes away then you may be lactose intolerant.

Beans
Beans are a great source of healthy protein and fiber, but they also contain oligosaccharide which can cause gas and bloating. Reduce the bloating and gas by rinsing your beans before eating them, which will cut down on the amount of oligosaccharide that you are consuming.

Fruits and Vegetables
Eating raw fruits and vegetables is an essential part of a healthy diet, but many people experience bloating when they begin eating these types of foods. The reason is because fruits and vegetables contain fiber which may cause some people to feel bloated. This bloated feeling will go away with time, so let your body adjust to your new healthy eating habits.

Sodium
Salty foods may cause you to retain water, which can result in a bloated feeling. Decreasing sodium consumption and increasing water consumption will solve the problem.

Soda
Drinking carbonated beverages releases carbon dioxide in the body, which leads to bloating. Also, be careful when eating gum or hard candy because those foods can be another source of air within the body -- the sucking and chewing motion often causes you to swallow more air.

7 Foods That Burn Stomach Fat

If you are tired of belly fat, there are a few steps that can be taken to get rid of the bulge. Here are seven foods that burn stomach fat.

Oatmeal
Eating oatmeal for breakfast will provide your body with high amounts of fiber, which reduces the chance of low blood sugar levels. Starting your day out with whole grain oatmeal will help you to avoid the mid-morning snacking. You will also be getting protein and other vitamins and minerals that help with weight loss.

Vegetables
Raw vegetables are a great source of fiber and antioxidants and eating vegetables will fill your stomach without increasing your caloric intake. Eating a variety of vegetables (especially leafy greens) will provide your body with essential nutrients including calcium, protein, magnesium, iron, potassium, vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin B -- just to name a few.

Lean Meat
Lean protein is essential on any weight loss diet, and meat is a good source of protein. Avoid processed meats, and focus on eating natural, organic white meat such as chicken and fish.

Whole Grains
Replacing white flour foods with whole grain foods will increase the nutrients that you are getting from your food. Whole grains provide your body with fiber, folic acid, vitamin E, and magnesium, all of which aid in the battle of the belly bulge.

Eggs
Increasing your protein intake is an easy way to burn stomach fat, and eggs have a high amount of protein. Eggs also provide your body with other nutrients, such as vitamin B12 which helps to release fat cells.

Olive Oil
Healthy fats are an essential part of burning stomach fat, and olive oil provides your body with the good kind of fat called "monounsaturated fat." Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over your vegetables and salad and it will add a great flavor and burn fat at the same time.

Nuts
Nuts are another source of good fats, although you need to be careful not to go overboard with your nut consumption because they are high in calories. Eating nuts will provide you with fat-burning protein as well as fiber, vitamins and minerals.