Apples

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We have all heard our mothers say, "an apple a day keeps the doctor away".  And guess what? She was right.  Did you know that apples help heal and cure a variety of illness, aliments and diseases.  Researchers have found that apples and apple constitutes (pectin, vinegar, etc.) can lower the risk of many cancers including colorectal, liver, breast, stomach, and esophageal. In addition, apples have been shown to reduce radioisotopes in people exposed to radiation or nuclear weapon fall out.

Apples have been shown to help with shortening the course of diarrhea in children and prevent atherosclerosis in a high cholesterol diet.  Apples help with weight loss and increase brain function.   Bowel inflammation, periodontal disease, hair loss, infections (staphylococcal and influenza) and vaccine-induced toxicity are decreased when one includes apples in his/her diet.

Next time you reach for an organic apple, remember that you are not only having a delicious snack, you are taking your daily dose of nature's medicine.

(to read more go to www.greenmedinfo.com, resource: Dr. Sayer Ji, photo: experiencecrossriver.com)

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Flossing

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I had my six month dental check up and cleaning today and like every time before my hygienist, Kim, reminds me that I need to floss everyday. I admit it, I am not a regular flosser; in fact I maybe floss once a week at best. This is very disturbing to me because I (and my friends and family) consider myself one of the healthiest people I know yet I am not practicing regular flossing. I told Kim that in her honor I would dedicate this entry to her.

 There are many health benefits to flossing. Combining brushing and flossing improves oral hygiene. Floss removes plaque from the tight spaces between teeth and under the gums (plaque under the gums leads to gingivitis and gum disease). Less plaque means less time in the dental chair for cleanings and treatments. I think this is bitter sweet because if you like your hygienist (like me), you will not spend as much time in her/his chair. An unhealthy mouth is much more than bad breath and yellow teeth it can lead to heart disease, lung problems, diabetes and life threatening systemic diseases. Health problems cost money. If the above reasons have not convinced you to start flossing consider this. Flossing can decrease the costs of dental and medical bills that are directly related to poor oral health. (Resource: 5 Reasons Why Flossing is Extremely Important by Matt Cunningham)

Magnesium

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Do you consider magnesium as an essential mineral when it comes to health benefits?  Many of us know the benefits of calcium and zinc however health experts stress the importance of magnesium for staying healthy.  Magnesium is responsible for the transmission of nerve impulses, body temperature regulation, detoxification, energy production, and the formation of healthy bones and teeth.  Studies show that magnesium helps aid in the symptoms of PMS and menopause.  In addition, there is overwhelming data that suggests magnesium may reverse osteoporosis, prevent cardiovascular disease, decrease blood pressure and the risk of developing diabetes, and treat headaches, insomnia and depression.

Foods rich in magnesium include nuts (not roasted) especially almonds, fish, wheat germ, green leafy vegetables, cocoa (dark unsweetened chocolate), squash, pumpkin, edamame, Tahini, and bran.

(source: www.newsmax.com January 20, 2011)

Just Dance

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Dancing is a great mind and body workout. According to an AARP, exercise…i.e. dancing, increases brain chemicals that stimulate nerve cell growth. Dancing requires the brain to remember steps and sequences thus improving memory skills. An article in the New England Journal of Medicine found that people that danced at least twice a week had lower incidence of dementia and those with Alzheimer's were able to remember events when they dance to music they used to know. Dancing can help strengthen bones, improve muscle tone, posture and balance; reduce stress, blood pressure, heart disease and depression; and build self esteem, stamina and flexibility.

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