Who in Their Right Mind Freezes a Lemon

Who in Their Right Mind Freezes a Lemon

“A new study has shown for the first time how limonoids, natural compounds present in lemons and other citrus fruit, impede both ER+ and ER- breast cancer cell growth. This sheds new light on the importance of citrus fruit for breast cancer prevention and supports past studies which showed fruit consumption may lower breast cancer risk.”

All kinds of people are saying that the entire lemon should be used with nothing wasted.   Not only for the obvious health benefits but also for the amazing taste!

How Simple, take an ORGANIC lemon, wash it, and then put it in the freezer. Once it is frozen you get whatever is necessary to grate or shred the whole lemon without even peeling it first.

Then sprinkle it on your salad, ice cream, soup, cereals, noodles, spaghetti sauce, or whatever. No holds barred. What you will experience is that whatever you sprinkle it on will take on a taste you may never have experienced before.

Why would I do this? Because the lemon peel contains 5 to 10 times more vitamins than the lemon juice itself and the peel is the part that is usually wasted. Not only that, but the peel helps to get rid of toxins in the body.

But wait, there’s more. Lemon is effective in killing cancer cells because it is allegedly 10,000 stronger than chemotherapy.

This has not been revealed because there are people out there that want to make a synthetic, toxic version that will bring them huge profits.   Shades of Monsanto.

The good news is that the taste of lemon is pleasant and does not deliver the horrific effects of chemotherapy.

What’s bizarre is that people are closely guarding this fact so as to not jeopardize the income to those that profit from other’s illnesses.

Another interesting aspect of the lemon is that it has a remarkable effect on cysts and tumors. Some say the lemon is a proven remedy against all types of cancer.

It doesn’t end there. It has an anti-microbial effect against bacterial infections and fungi; it is effective against internal parasites and worms; it regulates blood pressure, which is too high; it acts as an anti-depressant; it combats stress and nervous disorders.

The source of this information, although not specifically named, is one of the largest drug manufacturers in the world. They further say that after more than 20 laboratory tests since 1970, the extracts revealed that it destroys the malignant cells in 12 cancers, including colon, breast, prostate, lung and pancreas and that the compounds of the lemon tree were 10,000 times more effective than the product Adriamycin, which is a drug normally used chemotherapeutically in the world to slow the growth of cancer cells.

Even more, this type of therapy with lemon extract only destroys malignant cancer cells and does not affect healthy cells.

The process is simple: buy an ORGANIC lemon, wash it, freeze it, grate it, and put it on everything you eat.

It’s not rocket science. God puts stuff on the planet to keep the body healthy. The corporations hide this information and create synthetics to treat disease. The synthetic chemical creates other symptoms from its ingestion requiring another drug to combat these symptoms.

And so the cycle continues, which equates to enormous profits coming from an overt intention to keep a body ill and suppressing natural healing foods, minerals and modalities, all withheld by the mainstream media to not jeopardize their advertising dollar income, and payoffs to the politicians to not pass laws that will greatly benefit the people.

If we do not take responsibility for ourselves and go against the mainstream grain, we will inevitably remain a “trick” our whole life.

 

the Best Dairy-Free Probiotic

the Best Dairy-Free Probiotic

Probiotics are microorganisms that support a healthy gut flora. Available in foods or supplements, probiotics can boost the immune system, support digestive health, and relieve gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort. If you follow a vegan, vegetarian, or dairy-free diet, there are plenty of delicious probiotic-rich options to add to your daily menu. 

Top Dairy-Free Sources of Probiotics

  • Coconut milk yogurt
  • Non-dairy kefir drink
  • Tempeh meat substitute
  • Kimchi fermented cabbage
  • Sauerkraut
  • Kombucha probiotic tea drink
  • Miso paste
  • Vegan probiotic supplements
  • Natto fermented soybeans
  • Fermented pickles
  • Umeboshi plums
  • Apple cider vinegar

What Are Dairy-Free Probiotics?

Dairy-free probiotics are probiotic foods and supplements that do not contain milk or other products from cows or other livestock. Dairy-free probiotics are thus lactose-free. Many people around the world have an intolerance to lactose – the sugar in milk – and, according to a 2013 report, 75 percent of people with lactose-intolerance or milk allergies either reduce their dairy consumption or go dairy-free altogether as a way to manage symptoms.[1] Other people may want to avoid dairy for health reasons or because they live a vegan lifestyle, avoiding dairy, meat and animal products.

What Is Lactose-Intolerance?

According to the NIH, 65% of people around the world – that’s 30 to 50 million people in the United States alone – have a hard time digesting lactose beyond infancy.[2, 3] Some people also have a true allergy to the proteins in milk, including the protein casein. While some people will use the terms allergy, sensitivity, and intolerance interchangeably, allergy and lactose intolerance are quite different. An allergy is when the body’s immune system sees a substance – milk protein in this case – as a foreign invader, or allergen, and then the body produces antibodies in response. The allergic reaction can range from mild — itching, red skin — to severe, causing an inability to breathe due to swelling in the throat, or even anaphylactic shock. Fortunately, there are far fewer milk allergies compared with lactose-intolerance – 2-3% of the population in the developed world, though that still makes it the most common food allergy among kids.

In contrast, people with lactose-intolerance do not produce adequate lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose, which is the sugar in milk. People who are lactose-intolerant experience different symptoms from people with a milk allergy. Lactose-intolerance causes digestive symptoms, including stomach pain, diarrhea, gas, and bloating.

What Are the Benefits of Dairy-Free Probiotics?

Whether you have been formally diagnosed with lactose-intolerance or you follow a plant-based lifestyle, choosing dairy-free probiotic foods is an effective way to encourage a healthy balance of bacteria for overall gut health.

Your microbiota is made up of countless microbes, or microorganisms, that live in and on your body. Most of these microbes are found in the gastrointestinal tract, or gut, and consist of bacteria and yeast. Your body naturally contains a host of healthy bacteria that are part of its defenses that keep you healthy. Some bacteria, however, are harmful and lead to illness.

Many factors contribute to an imbalance of bacteria in the gut, including the use of antibiotics, food additives, diet, and genetics.Scientists are actively studying the many ways a person’s gut microbiota affects health, including mental health, immune system health, weight loss and metabolism, and reactions to seasonal allergies.Probiotics also:

  • Improve digestion
  • Relieve gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort
  • Reduce diarrhea from the uses of antibiotics
  • Strengthen the immune system
  • Manage blood glucose levels
  • Normalize blood pressure and heart health
  • Improve overall health and wellness

How Can You Tell Dairy From Non-Dairy Probiotics?

If you’re considering buying a probiotic that is not specifically identified as dairy-free, make sure to scan the label. Although food-labeling has improved, when it comes to finding non-dairy probiotics and lactose-free probiotics, the word “dairy” isn’t always written on a product label. To make sure your probiotic doesn’t have dairy, avoid these ingredients:

  • Casein
  • Dairy product solids
  • Protein hydrolysate
  • Lactic acid
  • Lactalbumin (whey protein)
  • Lactoglobulin
  • Lactose
  • Lactulose
  • Milk powder
  • Milk protein
  • Nonfat milk solids
  • Rennet
  • Whey
  • Zinc caseinate

If any of these ingredients are present, it’s best to walk away from the product. Probiotic supplements that include natural or artificial flavoring might also contain dairy and should be avoided.

Dairy-Free Food Sources of Probiotics

When it comes to eating non-dairy foods rich in probiotics, there is an impressive list of dairy-free probiotic sources. If you are lactose intolerant or are following a dairy-free diet, you can still reap the benefits of probiotics by consuming dairy-free fermented foods or taking dairy-free probiotic supplements. These products can be found at your local store or ordered online. The following are a few sources of probiotics that don’t contain dairy.

Coconut Milk Yogurt

Coconut milk yogurt is a delicious, dairy-free probiotic. This food can contain varying levels of sugar, so be sure to check the label. Avoid yogurt with too much sugar, or opt for an unsweetened version. Adding berries to coconut milk yogurt is a great way to enjoy the added benefits of a healthier and tastier meal. For a non-dairy yogurt that packs a big serving of probiotics, try this easy, do-it-yourself vegan probiotic yogurt recipe.

Non-Dairy Kefir Drink

A lightly fermented drink, kefir contains up to 30 microorganism strains, which gives it a higher level of probiotics than yogurt. Although dairy Kefir exists, any milk can be used to create it, including coconut milk, almond milk, and others. Kefir and the associated probiotics have been shown to fight against harmful bacteria and Candida yeast, and normalize gut function.

Tempeh Meat Substitute

Tempeh is made from cooked and fermented soybeans and has a firm texture and nutty flavor Not only is it dairy-free, but it’s also high in protein and calcium, and an excellent source of probiotics. It is used as a meat substitute in many types of dishes such as tacos, chili, or a vegetarian stir-fry. Some brands of tempeh are also a good source of gluten-free probiotics.

Kimchi Spicy Fermented Cabbage

Kimchi, a spicy fermented cabbage, is a popular Korean side dish that’s dairy-free and rich in probiotics. This food also contains healthy servings of iron, folate, and vitamins A, C, K, and B6. A bit sour and a bit spicy at the same time, adding a scoop of Kimchi to meals will liven up almost any dish.

Sauerkraut

Sauerkraut is another version of fermented cabbage and is a great way to get non-dairy probiotics and digestive enzymes into your diet. Sauerkraut is also low in calories and a good source of fiber, manganese, folate, iron, potassium, and vitamins B6, C, and K.

Kombucha Probiotic Tea Drink

Kombucha is a dairy-free probiotic drink in the form of black tea. This delicious beverage is fermented by a combination of bacteria and yeast and it contains several types of probiotics including Gluconacetobacter, Lactobacillus, Acetobacter, and Enterococcus faecium bacterial strains as well as probiotic yeasts like Zygosaccharomyces. Kombucha is a refreshing and healthy replacement for soda or carbonated beverages.

Miso Paste

Miso is a traditional Japanese condiment made from either fermented rye, soybeans, rice, or barley. It is a lovely source of probiotics that includes Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria. Commonly enjoyed as miso soup, it can also be used to make a delicious salad dressing.

Natto Fermented Soybeans

Much like tempeh, natto is made of fermented soybeans and contains bacillus, a healthy bacteria. It’s also an excellent source of protein and provides several vitamins and minerals including iron, copper, magnesium, calcium, potassium, zinc, phosphorus, selenium, and vitamins C and K. Traditionally eaten as a breakfast food, natto can be consumed by itself, or it can be added it to virtually any dish.

Fermented Pickles

Pickles are an excellent source of good-for-you probiotics, but not any pickle will do. In fact, most pickles you find on store shelves don’t make the cut because they are cooked and preserved in acidifying vinegar, which kills any probiotics. Look for brands that are labeled “naturally fermented,” or ferment them yourself at home.

Umeboshi Plums

Widely heralded in Japan for their healing and therapeutic properties, umeboshi plums – also called Japanese salty plums or ume plums – are a source of probiotics but are less known in the Western world. Famously used by Samurai warriors to provide strength for battle, the plums have an alkalizing effect on the body. The ume fruit is pickled in brine along with shiso leaf. You can buy these plums pickled, as an umeboshi paste, or even as umeboshi vinegar – which is actually not vinegar, but the brine the plums are pickled in.

Raw, Organic Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar can contain probiotics, but make sure to buy unpasteurized, raw, organic varieties, which are made from fermented apple cider. The bottle will contain cobwebby strands called the mother or scoby, which is a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast. Raw apple cider vinegar is full of proteins, enzymes, and probiotics, including Mycoderma aceti, which ferments the apple cider into vinegar. These healthy probiotics permeate the liquid and are present in every tablespoon.

Dairy-Free Probiotic Supplement

Getting probiotics from food is ideal. However, our diets are not always perfect, and stress and sleep disturbances can throw off the balance between good and bad bacteria in the gut. Taking a daily probiotic supplement can help boost your digestive health. Make sure to choose a trustworthy brand. Since ingredients, efficacy, and quality can vary, you should purchase probiotic supplements from a credible company with a history of excellent quality control. Verify that they use the purest, most natural ingredients. Keep the following tips in mind.

Look for a Blend of Multiple Strains

Some supplements contain one type of bacterial strain, while others contain several strains. Which is best? Research shows that some strains offer specific health benefits that others do not. Although there are plenty of excellent, single-strain probiotic supplements, a good rule of thumb is to choose a dairy-free probiotic with at least three strains.

Don’t Forget Prebiotics

Prebiotics are non-digestible “food” for probiotics that help probiotics grow and colonize in the gut. Prebiotics are found in non-dairy foods like onions, garlic, leeks, Jerusalem artichokes, and asparagus. As a bonus, some probiotic supplements also contain prebiotics.

Opt for Vegetarian Capsules

Many probiotic supplements use gelatin capsules made with beef, pork, or both. Although it’s not a hard and fast rule, vegan supplements that are made with vegetarian capsules tend to be manufactured more carefully and are of a higher quality.

Can Probiotics Be Vegan?

Many probiotic supplements contain different species of Lactobacillus, which is a type of healthy bacteria. Although Lactobacillus sounds a bit like lactose, it is dairy-free and does not contain lactose. Its name derives from the fact that it is often grown on a dairy medium, although all dairy is removed during processing. Lactobacillus actually occurs naturally in your gastrointestinal tract regardless of whether or not you consume products containing dairy. If you prefer a supplement that does not grow on a dairy medium, consider a vegan probiotic. I recommend Floratrex™, our vegan, non-dairy probiotic, which contains 50 billion CFU (colony-forming units) of over two dozen of the best probiotic strains, and it includes prebiotics for the perfect balance.

Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Global Healing Center does not dispense medical advice, prescribe, or diagnose illness. The views and nutritional advice expressed by Global Healing Center are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical service. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.

Charcoal To Improve Your Life!

Top 10 Surprising Uses Of (Food Grade) Activated Charcoal To Improve Your Life!

Activated charcoal is a potent natural treatment used to trap toxins and chemicals in the body, allowing them to be flushed out so the body doesn’t reabsorb them. It’s made from a variety of sources, but when used for natural healing, it’s important to select activated charcoal made from coconut shells or other natural sources.

 

One of the most popular activated charcoal uses is for the safe and effective treatment of poisoning and drug overdoses. It’s used in emergency trauma centers across the world. In addition, it’s used to reduce bloating and gas, lower cholesterol, treat bile flow problems safely during pregnancy, and even prevent hangovers.

Research shows that activated charcoal works better than stomach pumping (gastric lavage) in some situations.

How Does Activated Charcoal Work?

Activated charcoal works by trapping toxins and chemicals in its millions of tiny pores. Typically, however, it’s not used when petroleum, alcohol, lye, acids or other corrosive poisons are ingested.

It doesn’t absorb the toxins, however. Instead it works through the chemical process of adsorption. In the body, absorption is the reaction of elements, including nutrients, chemicals and toxins, soaked up and assimilated into the blood stream. Adsorption is the chemical reaction where elements bind to a surface.

The porous surface of activated charcoal has a negative electric charge that causes positive charged toxins and gas to bond with it. The nooks and crannies in activated charcoal are created through a heating process. It’s important to note that activated charcoal is not charcoal used in your barbecue grill! Barbecue charcoal is loaded with toxins and chemicals, and should never be consumed.

Top 10 Activated Charcoal Uses

Whenever you take activated charcoal, it’s imperative to drink 12-16 glasses of water per day. Activated charcoal can cause dehydration if adequate amounts of water aren’t consumed in tandem. In addition, this helps to flush out the toxins quickly and prevents constipation experienced by some individuals.

In addition to being a safe and effective treatment for poisonings and the removal of toxins from the system, additional activated charcoal uses include deodorizing and disinfecting, and it’s an important step to cure Lyme disease. Here are the top 10 activated charcoal uses:

1. Whitens Teeth

Have your teeth become stained from coffee, tea, wine or berries? Activated charcoal helps whiten teeth while promoting good oral health by changing the pH balance in the mouth, helping prevent cavities, bad breath and gum disease.

It works to whiten teeth by adsorbing plaque and microscopic tidbits that stain teeth. This activated charcoal use is cost-effective and an all-natural solution for a bright smile.

BE CAREFUL, it can (and will) stain grout and fabrics. Protect counters, floors and clothing before using.

To whiten your teeth naturally, wet a toothbrush and dip into powdered activated charcoal. Brush teeth as normal, paying special attention to areas showing the most staining. Sip a bit of water, swish through mouth thoroughly and spit. Rinse well, until spit is clear.

For best results, brush your teeth with activated charcoal two-three times per week.

Note: If you have crowns, caps or porcelain veneers, it’s possible that activated charcoal will stain them. In addition, if your teeth become sensitive, quit using it. <

2. Alleviates Gas & Bloating

One activated charcoal use often overlooked is to alleviate uncomfortable gas and bloating. It works by binding the gas-causing byproducts in foods that cause discomfort.

A study in the American Journal of Gastroenterology found that activated charcoal prevents intestinal gas following a typical gas-producing meal.(4)

Dosing recommendations to alleviate gas and bloating: Take 500 milligrams one hour prior to a typical gas-producing meal, with a full glass of water. Follow with an additional glass of water immediately thereafter to help get the charcoal into your system, where it can bind with gas-producing elements.

3. Treats Alcohol Poisoning & Helps Prevent Hangovers

While activated charcoal does not adsorb alcohol, it does help quickly remove other toxins from the body that contribute to poisoning. Alcohol is rarely consumed in its pure form; mixers that include artificial sweeteners and chemicals are common. Activated charcoal removes these toxins.

In addition, when activated charcoal is taken at the same time as alcohol, some studies show it can significantly reduce blood alcohol concentrations

Princeton University’s First Aider’s Guide to Alcohol indicates that activated charcoal is administered in some situations related to alcohol. This includes if the individual is unconscious or showing signs of acute alcohol poisoning.<

4. Mold Cleansing

Most people don’t think about mold living in their bodies, but it can. Toxic mold causes depression, kidney and liver failure, decreased brain function, heart disease, eye irritation, headaches, vomiting, impaired immune system function, and severe respiratory distress.

Homes that have flooded, or even those with small leaks under a sub-floor or in the walls, can create an environment where mold can thrive. Poor ventilation contributes to the problem, and bathrooms, basements and laundry rooms are particularly prone to mold growth.

If there is visible mold in your home, it must be mitigated properly. It’s important to wear gloves and a protective mask to keep from inhaling toxic mold during cleanup. Baking soda, apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil and borax can be used to clean mold off hard surfaces and keep mold from growing in the future.

If you or your family experience symptoms including wheezing, rashes, watery eyes, coughing or headaches that aren’t explained in other ways, your home should be evaluated for mold spore levels, even if no visible mold is detected. It can thrive behind drywall, under floors and in ventilation ducts.

5. Water Filtration

Activated charcoal traps impurities in water including solvents, pesticides, industrial waste and other chemicals. This is why it’s used in water filtration systems throughout the world. However, it doesn’t trap viruses, bacteria and hard-water minerals.

According to a study published in the Journal of the Canadian Dental Association, activated carbon filters (activated charcoal), removes some fluoride. (7) Avoiding fluoride and detoxing from it is important for oral health, proper immune system functioning, and healthy kidneys and liver.

Drinking water is essential to good health; however, typical tap water is toxic and laden with chemicals, toxins and fluoride. Ingestion should be limited whenever possible. Activated charcoal water filters are available for whole-home systems, as well as countertop models. Drink eight-10 glasses of pure water per day to help soothe the digestive tract, fight fatigue, keep organs operating, and provide lubrication for joints and tissues.

6. Emergency Toxin Removal

As mentioned above, one of the most common activated charcoal uses is to remove toxin and chemicals in the event of ingestion. Most organic compounds, pesticides, mercury, fertilizer and bleach bind to activated charcoal’s surface, allowing for quicker elimination, while preventing the absorption in the body.

Activated charcoal is also used in the event of an accidental, or purposeful, overdose of many pharmaceutical drugs and over-the-counter medications. It’s effective for aspirin, opium, cocaine, morphine and acetaminophen. It’s important that the proper amount is administered as quickly as possible — definitely within an hour of ingestion.

In the event of poisoning, call 911 immediately. Proper dosing is imperative. According to the University of Michigan Health System, 50 to 100 grams (not milligrams!) is used in cases of poisoning in adults and 10 to 25 grams for children.

In addition, activated charcoal can be used in cases of food poisoning when nausea and diarrhea are present. Adults take 25 grams at onset of symptoms or when food poisoning is suspected, and children should be given 10 grams. Increase dosage as necessary. Remember, it’s essential that adequate water is consumed when activated charcoal is taken. <

7. Skin And Body Health

Activated charcoal uses extend beyond internal applications. For external treatments, it’s effective at treating body odor and acne and relieving discomfort from insect bites, rashes from poison ivy or poison oak, and snake bites.

After a mosquito bite or bee sting, mix one capsule of activated charcoal with ½ tablespoon of coconut oil, and dab on affected area. Reapply every 30 minutes until itching and discomfort are gone. As activated charcoal stains nearly everything it touches, wrap with a bandage.

To treat bites from snakes and spiders, including the Brown Recluse or Black Widow, you want to cover a larger area than just a small bandage, as the bacteria and viruses that lead to tissue damage need to be mitigated quickly.

Create a wrap out of fabric that’s big enough to go around the affected area twice. Dab the mixture of coconut oil and activated charcoal on the fabric, and wrap. Secure with bandages. Reapply every two to three hours, rinsing well between applications.

To treat acne, mix one capsule of activated charcoal with two teaspoons of aloe vera gel, and smooth over face. Let dry and rinse off completely. The activated charcoal binds with environmental toxins and dirt that contribute to acne. It’s also good for spot treatments.

8. Digestive Cleanse

activated charcoal drinkActivated charcoal uses help promote a healthy digestive tract by removing toxins that cause allergic reactions, oxidative damage and poor immune system function. By removing the toxins from your system, you can reduce joint pain, increase energy and increase mental function.

Environmental factors, including pesticides on food, chemicals in the water we drink and exposure to mold, create a toxic burden in our bodies. It’s important to routinely cleanse the digestive tract to support overall health and wellness. To complete a digestive cleanse with activated charcoal, take 10 grams 90 minutes prior to each meal, for two days.

During the cleanse, eat only organic fruits and vegetables, grass-fed meat, and wild fish. If during the cleanse you find you are constipated, this is a sure sign you’re not consuming enough water! Drink a glass of warm water with a slice of lemon and a touch of honey every half hour until constipation is relieved.<

9. Anti-Aging

Activated charcoal uses include helping prevent cellular damage to kidneys and liver, as well as supporting healthy adrenal glands. It’s imperative to cleanse toxins and chemicals routinely from the body. Activated charcoal benefits major organs by helping the body flush out the toxins and chemicals that cause the damage.

Aging is a natural part of life, but due to the toxic load we are exposed to through food, our homes and workplaces, and our environment, to prevent pre-mature aging we must get rid of them.

For this activated charcoal use, take two capsules per day after exposure to nonorganic foods, heavy metals or after contact to other toxins. This supports better cognitive function, a reduction in brain fog, healthier kidney and liver function, and a healthier digestive tract.

10. Reduces High Cholesterol

Studies around the world show that activated charcoal reduces bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol as much as some prescription medications. In one study, total cholesterol decreased by 25 percent, LDL cholesterol decreased by 41 percent, while HDL increased by 8 percent — in just four weeks.(9)

Study participants took three doses of eight grams each for the period of the study. As mentioned below, don’t take activated charcoal within 90 minutes to two hours of taking any prescription medication or supplements as it can prevent proper absorption.

Activated Charcoal For First Aid

activated charcoal capsulesI recommend activated charcoal as a part of first aid kits, both at home and at work.(3) In the event of an emergency where toxins, drugs or chemicals are ingested, it’s imperative to call 911 immediately. If you have activated charcoal on hand, be sure to tell the operator; the operator may advise to administer it prior to the first responder’s arrival.

Depending on the amount of toxins or chemicals ingested and types of toxins, multiple doses may be required. At the hospital, physicians are able to administer more as needed.

Activated Charcoal Side Effects

For the activated charcoal uses mentioned here, it’s generally deemed safe for most individuals. However, it’s always good to be aware of any medical conditions such as intestinal bleeding or blockages, holes in the intestines, chronic dehydration, slow digestion, or a recent abdominal surgery, as they may affect how activated charcoal reacts in your body.(10)

Additionally, activated charcoal can interfere with the absorption of nutrients, supplements and interfere with prescription medications. Take activated charcoal 90 minutes to two hours prior to meals, supplements and prescription medications. Potential adverse interactions with the following drugs can occur:(11)

  • Naltrexone (used for alcohol and opioid dependence)
  • Acrivastine
  • Bupropion
  • Carbinoxamine
  • Fentanyl
  • Hydrocodone
  • Meclizine
  • Methadone
  • Morphine
  • Morphine Sulfate Liposome
  • Mycophenolate Mofetil
  • Mycophenolic Acid
  • Oxycodone
  • Oxymorphone
  • Suvorexant
  • Tapentadol
  • Umeclidinium
  • Acetaminophin
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
  • Theophylline

BUY FOOD GRADE ACTIVATED CHARCOAL:

Rejuvelac, The Fermented Super Drink

Rejuvelac, The Fermented Super Drink

Rejuvelac is a cultured probiotic-rich drink made by fermenting freshly sprouted grains in water. It first became popular in the 1960’s under the influence of living food enthusiast Dr. Ann Wigmore, the original founder of the Hippocrates Health Institute.

Born in Lithuania, “Dr. Ann”, as she was called, is believed to have acquired the recipe from her Baltic origins. The beverage is closely related to the traditional Romanian drink, called Bors, a fermented wheat bran used to make a sour soup called ciorba.

Many people since then have been using this slightly tart, lemony-tasting liquid as a digestive-type tonic for its high enzyme content.

Small shot glass size portions are known to be helpful as a natural gentle laxative which can assist in relieving constipation and potential toxic buildup.

It is extremely beneficial to include some kind of fermented foods in the diet on a regular basis. We like to change it up with variety and rejuvelac is a simple, easy to make alternative to other cultured food and drink that doesn’t require special techniques, culture starters or equipment.

Although you wouldn’t think that water sitting around for a couple of days with sprouted grains in it would taste all that great, the fermentation process actually produces a very clean tasting, tangy drink with a citrus-like aroma.

The active enzymes in the cultured water are largely a byproduct of the grain sprouting process.  Like the name implies, rejuvelac is “rejuvenating” and is a “super sprout drink”, made from these concentrated energizing compounds.

The potent and minutely fizzy strained liquid that results, we have found to be a health-enhancing potion that is mainly beneficial when consumed before or between meals on an empty stomach.

It should really be considered a digestive tonic rather than a beverage you would drink in larger quantities.  We usually drink between 2-4 ounces at a time in shot glass size glasses, as drinking too much may cause gastrointestinal upset and/or loose stools. If you are new to drinking it, definitely start out with a 1oz portion and build up to more over a period of time.

What is Rejuvelac Exactly?

It is essentially the fermentation of sprouted grains in pure water for a 1-2 day duration. Although original methods actually just soaked the grains in water before making it, these days most all recipes sprout them slightly first. The idea is that the grain is plump and basically preparing to reproduce itself. A process which activates compounds necessary for the ferment.

It is traditionally made from wheat berries, but can also be produced from other varieties like rye, kamut, barley, millet, buckwheat or quinoa, with each having their own special bouquet of flavors.

It is one of those fermented foods that can’t usually be purchased from the health food store, but must be created homemade-style.

Rejuvelac is a bit different than other ferments in that you are not using a specific culture starter, like you would when making kombucha, kefir, sauerkraut, miso and tempeh. It is considered a “wild fermentation” because the beneficial microorganisms needed to successfully culture the water are naturally present on the grains and sprouts themselves.

As we mentioned, the process of fermenting the sprouted grains in water encourages high enzymatic activity but also, as a lactic acid ferment, supports the production of beneficial Lactobacillus bacteria. When consumed, these friendly microbes can further proliferate the gastrointestinal tract and help to balance our gut microbiota.

Two Ingredients: Sprouted Grains and Pure Water

Rejuvelac is a simple and “old school” culturing technique that is very inexpensive to make. It is sometimes used as a liquid culture starter for other fermented foods, like nut or seed cheeses.

Dr. Wigmore, who also popularized “seed cheese” made with sunflower and pumpkin seeds, used small amounts of rejuvelac to culture her raw seed-based cheeses to produce a cheese-like flavor.

Unlike other cultured foods such as kombucha and kefir, which may contain small amounts of alcohol as a byproduct of fermentation, rejuvelac is considered a non-alcoholic liquid, containing only very minute amounts, nothing more than you would find in a jar of sauerkraut.

Gluten-free Alternatives

For those of you who wish to avoid gluten products or ferments, rejuvelac can also be made from gluten-free grains like quinoa and millet. We have included our quinoa recipe further below on this page.

rejuvelac-recipes-wheat-berries

What are Sprouted Grains?

All raw grains, seeds and most nuts will sprout little roots when given the water needed to do so. Soaking them overnight is the best way to ensure that they will sprout or grow little white root-hairs from the end of the seeds.  This helps activate the lacto-fermentation process required to make rejuvelac.

In the words of Sandor Katz, “When you soak the grain, it begins to swell, setting in motion a series of changes that, given the right conditions, will result in its sprouting into a new plant. At the same time, water also revives the bacteria and fungi that populate the grain’s surfaces, and initiates fermentation.”

Rejuvelac is much easier to make of course, if you are familiar with the seed sprouting process. Many grains and seeds are “sprouted” when growing sprouts, microgreens as well as when making essene bread, sprouted rye crackers or rejuvelac. Sprouting is not all that complicated, but it does take some practice, mostly just keeping up with rinsing and making sure you don’t sprout them too long.

The same method is also used to sprout wheat berries for tray-growing wheatgrass.  Dr. Ann Wigmore was also one of the first to discover the healing properties of wheatgrass juice, which she used medicinally, along with rejuvelac, with great success in her holistic health care practice.

how-to-make-rejuvelac-wheat-berry-sprouts
Sprouted Wheat Berries
how-to-make-rejuvelac-quinoa-sproutsSprouted Quinoa

How to Sprout Grains

Sprouting the grain first before fermentation, while not completely necessary, is highly recommend it as it will only boost beneficial components. The sprouting process will take a few days of preparation before you make your actual recipe, but it is very simple.

First off, you want to use whole, raw, non-GMO and preferably organic grains that have not been heat treated or radiated. Once you have some high-quality grains, in this case either soft wheat berries or quinoa for the two recipes on this page, you are ready to make rejuvelac!

Health Benefits of Rejuvelac

Enzyme-Rich Drink and Digestive Aid

Consuming lacto-fermented foods, like rejuvelac, can be a valuable asset to overall health and helpful for processing potential leftover byproducts of a low-quality enzyme-less diet. Poor dietary choices over a period of time can cause toxic buildup in the body and chronic health issues like bloating, constipation, obesity, fatigue and lowered immune response.

Rejuvelac is very high in enzyme content, which is created from the bacteria and yeasts present, one of which includes the amylase enzyme producing Aspergillus oryzae species, the “koji” culture used to ferment miso.

Sprouted grains themselves are known to have very energizing effects on the body, mostly due to their improved level of these sprout activated enzymes that continue to increase when fermented.

Dr. Johannes Kuhl, a German researcher and author of several books including “Cancer in Check”, wrote this about the benefits of lacto-fermented foods:

“The natural lactic acid and fermentive enzymes which are produced during the fermentation process have a beneficial effect on the metabolism and a curative effect on disease. Lactic acid destroys harmful intestinal bacteria and contributes to the better digestion and assimilation of the nutrients. Fermented foods improve the intestinal tract and provide a proper environment for the body’s own vitamin production within the intestines.”

A Liquid Probiotic Tonic for Intestinal Balance

Rejuvelac is a nutritious and energizing probiotic tonic for inoculating the large intestine with friendly Lactobacillus microflora and encouraging the healthy proliferation of good bacteria. It is helpful to consume probiotic supplements and/or fermented foods for this reason on a regular basis and this sprouted wheat berry-based drink is an easy to make inexpensive option.

A healthy balance of intestinal microorganisms should include approximately 80% bacterial group-based species, like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, and 20% of the more acidic fungal group species such as Candida albicans, which are actually beneficial in small amounts. (Source)

Other Nutritional Components

In research conducted by food chemist Dr Harvey Lisle, rejuvelac was shown to be rich in proteins, carbohydrates, Lactobacillus, B vitamins, vitamin. C, vitamin E, dextrines, phosphates, Saccharomyces and Aspergillus oryzae.

Rejuvelac Benefits List:

  • Introduces friendly lacto-bacteria into the gastrointestinal tract
  • Encourages regular bowel movements
  • Energizes the body through enzymatic activity and cleansing actions
  • Helps to remove toxins and excess undigested waste material
  • Acts as a digestive aid and can increase the absorption of nutrients

Can Rejuvalac Go Bad?

Yes, during the process of fermentation, rejuvelac can spoil and produce an inedible liquid, which means that other unfriendly microbes have taking over the ferment and have dominated the lacto-bacteria present. This is usually obvious by the presence of a very strong, unpleasant putrid odor. It will also look overly cloudy with possible mold growing on the surface.

You will need to discard it and begin again with clean sanitized equipment. Spoilage often occurs when the atmospheric conditions were either too hot, too humid or both. Ideally a 70-75°F (21-24°C) temperature is best for optimal results.

Potential Rejuvelac Contamination

There are some health authorities, like Brian Clement, who warn against the use of rejuvelac because there may be a likelihood of what is labeled as “contamination” in the final product. Not the lethal variety, but other more fungal yeasts, like Saccharomyces, which may be present in small amounts in the cultured liquid.

However, we have found that this is not an unusual phenomenon, as other fermented foods are also known to contain them in small quantities. These types of yeast are found in other ferments, like kefir, and are beneficial in lower volumes (about 20%) as they are in our intestines.

The Lactobacillus species are hardy strains of microbes and are what is needed to create a successfully fermented product, without them you would not achieve a lacto-fermented end result.

We personally have only experienced positive effects from drinking rejuvelac and feel that we wouldn’t have such associated health benefits if other less beneficial species were present in large quantities. Also, if the final liquid outcome looks and tastes pleasant, like it should, these are good signs of a lactic acid bacteria-rich fermented drink.

It is a good idea, as suggested, to take precautions when preparing it, making sure all your equipment is thoroughly clean and sanitary to avoid spoilage. In addition, to prevent possible airborne yeast contaminants, it is advised to place a loose lid and clean cloth securely over your jar and culture it in a ventilated, yet clean environment away from dust and foot traffic. We have also successfully used airlock fermentation caps, which is also another option

How to Use

Rejuvelac does agree with most people, but not everyone, so it is good to start out slow with small amounts (2T) to test it out if you are prone to digestive sensitivities.

Drink rejuvelac first thing in the morning as well as before or between meals for optimal results.  Again, it is best consumed in smaller quantities rather than large glasses, especially if you are new to drinking it.

Kratom is illegal in Thailand since 1943

Unfortunately Kratom is Ban from the country where it Originated from Thailand…

Even if it sold in Bali legally do not bring it to Thailand ….

8 Impressive Benefits of Kratom Leaves

Kratom leaves have traditionally been used for medicinal purposes. The interesting health benefits of kratom leaves include their ability to relieve pain, boost metabolism, increase sexual energy, improve the immune system, and prevent diabetes. They ease anxiety, help with addiction, eliminate stress, and induce healthy sleep.

What are Kratom Leaves?

Kratom is a tropical tree native to Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea, where the leaves have been used for medicinal purposes due to its morphine-like effects. The majority of the health benefits of kratom are derived from the unique chemical compounds and nutrients found within the leaves of the plant, including a wide range of alkaloids and other organic substances that affect many organs of the human body. Mitragynine, the primary active alkaloid in kratom, is associated with being responsible for its opioid-like effects.

The plant’s leaves are widely chewed in countries where the tree grows naturally, and some high estimates suggest that up to 70% of the male population of Thailand would chew anywhere from 10-60 leaves each day. It is sold as leaves, powder, extract, capsule, pellet, or gum, and it can be smoked, chewed or consumed as a tea.

The scientific name of this evergreen tree is Mitragyna speciosa, and it has had a very interesting history, including being banned in Thailand (despite being indigenous there), as it was a natural substitute for opium, thereby affecting the economy of the country.

Kratom, which is readily available for purchase on the internet, has come under the international spotlight in recent years for its medicinal use as well its abuse as a recreational drug. And it has been banned in countries including Australia, Malaysia, and Myanmar. In the US and European countries, kratom is increasingly being used by individuals for the self-management of pain or withdrawal from opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription pain relievers. However, use of kratom is recommended if you live in a country or region where the possession, use, and distribution of kratom is legal.

Health Benefits of Kratom Leaves

Let’s take a closer look at some of the fascinating health benefits of kratom leaves.

Pain Reliever

Kratom leaves are rich in analgesic properties and can quickly relieve pain throughout the body by impacting the hormonal system. The amount of serotonin and dopamine released into the body increases when the leaves are chewed. This further alleviates the pain. Essentially, the alkaloids dull the pain receptors throughout the body. This morphine or opium-like quality of kratom leaves is widely regarded as its most important application.

Immune System Booster

Independent studies on the various alkaloids found in kratom leaves have shown that the combinative effects can have major effects on the strength and resilience of the immune system. Kratom leaf extracts, which were traditionally used as herbs, are endowed with free radical scavenging and antimicrobial activity and are a natural source of antioxidants.

Energy Booster

The metabolic effects that kratom has are one of the other reasons that the leaves are so popular, particularly with laborers in various countries. It can increase your energy levels by optimizing certain metabolic processes and impacting hormone levels. This is a result of increased circulation, despite its soothing nature, and a general increase in oxygenated blood to areas of the body that needs it, combining with increased metabolic activities to provide a burst of energy. For sufferers of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, kratom leaves are often an alternative, natural solution.

Sexual Stimulant

Kratom is seen by many traditional practitioners and users as an aphrodisiac and a fertility booster, as the extra energy and blood flow can help increase fertility, re-energize a tired libido, and improve duration/conception rates.

Reduced Anxiety

Kratom leaves are widely used as anxiolytic substances for people who suffer from chronic stress, depression, anxiety, and mood swings. By regulating the hormones in our body, people can finally get relief from these exhausting symptoms of chemical imbalance without having to rely on pharmaceuticals and all of the implicit side effects of those drugs.

Addiction Recovery

Due to the inherently healthy nature of kratom leaves, in combination with their range of effects, they have been used as a method of curing addiction for hundreds of years. In many cultures, opium addiction is a major issue, but regularly chewing on kratom leaves provides a similar sensation without the comedowns and negative side effects. Therefore, when people are attempting to “get clean” and stay that way, they often turn to kratom leaves as a tolerable solution, thereby making these leaves very valuable in many parts of the world. This also helps to cover withdrawal symptoms during the transition away from that more intense drug.

Diabetes Treatment

One of the lesser known benefits of kratom leaves is their effect on blood sugar levels. Limited research has shown that the alkaloids found in the leaves are able to help regulate the amount of insulin and glucose in the blood, effectively preventing the dangerous peaks and troughs that diabetics face. This can not only help diabetics manage their disorder, but also prevent it from developing in the first place.

Side Effects of Kratom

Regular kratom users can tend to have psychotic symptoms such as mental confusion, delusion, and hallucination. Others claim a “kratom hangover”, which includes headaches or nausea in the morning after use. This is something you can determine for yourself, based on your particular sensitivities. Studies show that regular kratom use is associated with drug dependency, development of withdrawal symptoms, and craving.

Withdrawal Symptoms of Kratom

Editor’s Pick

Physical withdrawal symptoms include anorexia, weight loss, decreased sexual drive, insomnia, muscle spasms and pain, aching in the muscles and bones, jerky movement of the limbs, watery eyes/nose, hot flushes, fever, decreased appetite, and diarrhea. Psychological withdrawal symptoms commonly reported are nervousness, restlessness, tension, anger, hostility, aggression, and sadness.

Note: The US FDA issued a public health advisory in November 2017 about kratom, saying it appears to have properties that expose users to the risks of addiction, abuse, and dependence. Because kratom is a supplement, it is not regulated in the US. Globally, it is banned or controlled in 16 countries, including Thailand and Malaysia, where it grows naturally.

Reference

John Staughton is a traveling writer, editor, and publisher who earned his English and Integrative Biology degrees from the University of Illinois in Champaign, Urbana (USA).

Benefits of Soaking Nuts and Seeds

The Benefits of Soaking Nuts and Seeds

Nature has set it up so that the nut, grain, and seed may survive until proper growing conditions are present. Nature’s defense mechanism includes nutritional inhibitors and toxic substances that can be removed naturally when there is enough precipitation to sustain a new plant after the nut, grain or seed germinates. When it rains the nut, grain or seed gets wet and can then germinate to produce a plant. So we are mimicking nature when we soak our nuts, grains, and seeds.

Nutritional inhibitors and toxic substances found in nuts grains and seed can be minimized or eliminated by soaking. These inhibitors and toxic substances are enzyme inhibitors, phytates (phytic acid), polyphenols (tannins), and goitrogens.

What Are Enzyme Inhibitors?

There are digestive enzymes and metabolic enzymes. Digestive enzymes help break down food. Metabolic enzymes help every biological process the body does. Enzyme inhibitors will clog, warp or denature an active site of an enzyme. They may also bind to the enzyme, which will prevent the intended molecule from binding. “Once again, the habits of traditional peoples should serve as a guide. They understood instinctively that nuts are best soaked or partially sprouted before eaten. This is because nuts contain numerous enzyme inhibitors that can put a real strain on the digestive mechanism if consumed in excess.”

What Are Phytates?

All grains contain phytic acid in the outer layer or bran. Untreated phytic acid can combine with calcium, magnesium, copper, iron and especially zinc in the intestinal tract and block their absorption. This is why a diet high in unfermented whole grains may lead to serious mineral deficiencies and bone loss. The modern misguided practice of consuming large amounts of unprocessed bran often improves colon transit time at first but may lead to irritable bowel syndrome and, in the long term, many other adverse effects.

Why Soak Nuts, Grains, And Seeds?

  • To remove or reduce phytic acid.
  • To remove or reduce tannins.
  • To neutralize the enzyme inhibitors.
  • To encourage the production of beneficial enzymes.
  • To increase the amounts of vitamins, especially B vitamins.
  • To break down gluten and make digestion easier.
  • To make the proteins more readily available for absorption.
  • To prevent mineral deficiencies and bone loss.
  • To help neutralize toxins in the colon and keep the colon clean.
  • To prevent many health diseases and conditions.
    The Benefits of Soaking Nuts and Seeds

Soaking allows enzymes, lactobacilli, and other helpful organisms to break down and neutralize a large portion of phytic acid in grains. Soaking in warm water also neutralizes enzyme inhibitors, present in all seeds, and encourages the production of numerous beneficial enzymes. The action of these enzymes also increases the amount of many vitamins, especially B vitamins. During the process of soaking and fermenting, gluten and other difficult-to-digest proteins are partially broken down into simpler components that are more readily available for absorption.

What Can Be Used To Soak Nuts, Grains, And Seeds?

I have found many references to soaking nuts, grains, and seeds in water, salt water, or a warm water mixture with something acidic like yogurt, whey or lemon juice. It seems within 7 to 24 hours the enzyme inhibitors are neutralized and the anti-nutrients are broken down regardless of the method you choose. There is evidence that the process works when you see sprouting begin.

How Long Does The Soaking Process Take?

As little as seven hours of soaking in warm acidulated water will neutralize a large portion of phytic acid in grains. The simple practice of soaking cracked or rolled cereal grains overnight will vastly improve their nutritional benefits. Flour products should be soaked at room temperature for at least twelve hours, but better results may be obtained with a twenty-four-hour soaking.

Are The Nuts, Grains And Seeds Used Wet?

I have enjoyed almonds wet. If you choose to try consuming anything in the soaked state, make little batches and store them in the refrigerator. Usually, everything that is soaked is dried in a dehydrator or oven on the lowest possible setting for 24 – 36  hours to remove all moisture.

Wheat berries can be soaked whole for 8 to 22 hours, then drained and rinsed. Some recipes use the whole berries while they are wet, such as cracker dough ground right in the food processor. You can also dry sprouted wheat berries in a low-temperature oven or dehydrator, and then grind them in your grain mill and use the flour in a variety of recipes. Nuts, grains, seeds and legumes can be ground up to use as flour in many recipes after they have been dried.

Any Advice On What To Do With Legumes?

Maureen Diaz recommends soaking any beans or legumes in water and vinegar for at least twelve hours before cooking. Soaked and dried beans may be ground up and used as flour for thickening and baking. This is helpful for those on a gluten-free diet.

One recommendation includes placing soaked kombu or kelp seaweed in the bottom of the pot when soaking legumes. Add one part seaweed to six or more parts legumes. This is for improved flavor and digestion, more nutrients, and faster cooking. Soak legumes for twelve hours or overnight in four parts water to one part legume. For best results, change the water once or twice. Lentils and whole dried peas require shorter soaking while soybeans and garbanzos need to soak longer. Soaking softens skins and begins the sprouting process, which eliminates phytic acid, thereby making more minerals available. Soaking also promotes faster cooking and improved digestibility, because the gas-causing enzymes and trisaccharides in legumes are released into the soak water. Be sure to discard the soak water. After bringing legumes to a boil, scoop off and discard foam. Continue to boil for twenty minutes without the lid at beginning of cooking to let steam rise (breaks up and disperses indigestible enzymes).

Delicia Beaty and Sharon Foutch

Are You Soaking Your Nuts, Seeds, Grains, And Legumes?

Reishi Mushroom The adaptogenic herbs,

Reishi Mushroom: Fight Cancer, Boost Immunity & Improve Liver Detox

The reishi mushroom is an edible type of medicinal fungus that has been used for its healing abilities for thousands of years and fits the definition of a true superfood. Also known as Ling Zhi in Chinese, these mushrooms are anti-inflammatory and tied to longevity, better immune function and mental clarity, earning them the nickname “king of mushrooms.”Throughout history in holistic medicine, reishi mushrooms have been considered to be adaptogenic herbs, meaning they help your body deal with the negative effects of stress such as increased inflammation, depleted energy levels, damaged blood vessels and various types of hormonal imbalances. Studies have repeatedly shown that reishi mushrooms have antioxidant abilities that allow them to strengthen the body’s defenses against cancer, autoimmune conditions, heart disease, allergies, infections and more.And believe it or not, this is all just skimming the surface of a few of the health benefits that reishi mushrooms have to offer. Ready to learn more? Let’s take a look at why you should consider adding this incredible medicinal mushroom into your routine.

What Are Reishi Mushrooms?

Like other disease-fighting mushrooms, reishi mushrooms are a type of fungus that grow outdoors. They’re native to several parts of Asia, including China, Korea and Japan. While they’re edible and are often described as bitter-tasting with a tough texture, you’re much more likely to find them in supplement, tincture or powder form.

Reishi mushrooms, also known by their scientific name Ganoderma lucidum, grow above ground and produce “a fruiting body” along with connective strands (called mycelium), which are turned into an herbal medicines, tinctures, teas, powders and extracts.

For most of history in Traditional Chinese Medicine, fully-grown reishi mushrooms were dried, cut into slices, boiled in hot water and then steeped to make a healing tea/soup. Today, manufacturers of reishi products use a processing technique where reishi is boiled multiple times at a high pressure, allowing the active ingredients to be extracted to form a tincture.

Thanks to the concentrated compounds that these mushrooms contain, potential reishi mushroom benefits include protection against tumor formation, improved liver function, better heart health, enhanced blood sugar control and a reduced risk of asthma, allergies and infection.

Reishi Mushroom Nutrition Facts

In supplement form, reishi mushrooms typically contain little to no calories and only a small amount of dietary fiber and protein. However, the true reishi mushroom health benefits come from the ingredients that aren’t listed on the nutrition label.

In particular, reishi mushrooms are jam-packed with antioxidants and health-promoting compounds such as polysacchraides and triterpenes. These powerful compounds have been linked to a number of health benefits and have been shown to account for many of the anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and anti-diabetic properties of the reishi mushroom.

How Reishi Mushrooms Work to Fight Disease

Over the past several decades, dozens of different studies conducted in Japan, China, the U.S. and the U.K. have demonstrated that reishi mushrooms are capable of offering protection against numerous diseases or illnesses, including

  • inflammation
  • fatigue (including chronic fatigue syndrome)
  • frequent infections (urinary tract, bronchitis, respiratory infections, etc.)
  • liver disease
  • food allergies and asthma
  • digestive problems, stomach ulcers and leaky gut syndrome
  • tumor growth and cancer
  • skin disorders
  • autoimmune disorders
  • diabetes
  • viruses, including the flu, HIV/AIDS or hepatitis
  • heart disease, hypertension, high blood pressure and high cholesterol
  • sleep disorders and insomnia
  • anxiety and depression

Because they work as an “immune modulator,” reishi mushrooms can help restore hormonal balance, bring the body back to homeostasis and regulate activity of the immune system, helping to fight tumors and cancerous cells. Research shows that reishi mushrooms act as a normalizing substance, regulating various cellular functions and systems, including the endocrine (hormonal), immune, cardiovascular, central nervous and digestive systems.

One of the biggest reishi benefits is that they’re capable of doing so much, yet produce hardly any side effects and are much less toxic than traditional medications. In fact, most people report a quick improvement in their energy levels, mental focus and mood while also experiencing a reduction in aches, pains, allergies, digestive issues and infections.

The secret behind their healing potential? It’s the various active ingredients that the reishi mushroom contains, which include complex sugars known as beta-glucans, plant sterols that act as precursors to hormones in the body, polysaccharides that fight cancer cell development and acidic substances called triterpenes that turn off the body’s response to allergies.

Recent findings suggest that reishi mushrooms can lower inflammation and increase the release of natural killer cells, which work to remove various types of mutated cells from the body. This makes the reishi mushroom ideal for preventing heart disease and working as a natural cancer treatment. Some of the ways that reishi mushrooms work to promote better health include:

  • activating cytotoxic receptors (NKG2D/NCR)
  • inhibiting cell proliferation
  • suppressing vascular endothelial growth factor
  • increasing plasma antioxidant capacity
  • enhancing immune response
  • converting excess testosterone to dihydrotestosterone

Reishi Mushrooms in Traditional Medicine

Many forms of holistic medicine take advantage of the full scope of benefits of reishi mushroom and use it to treat a variety of ailments. Reishi mushrooms are an especially common ingredient in Traditional Chinese Medicine and have been used as a staple for thousands of years. They are believed to nourish the heart, preserve liver health, slow aging and enhance vitality, stamina and strength. They’re also said to promote calmness and relaxation and are often used to supplement spiritual practices.

 

Top 7 Reishi Mushroom Benefits

1. Contains Powerful Anti-Cancer Properties

Just like other anti-inflammatory foods, reishi mushrooms are packed with important nutrients, including antioxidants, beta-glucans and amino acids. Researchers believe that one of the most beneficial components of the reshi mushroom are its polysaccharides, which are a water-soluble type of nutrient found in carbohydrate foods that are known to have anti-tumor abilities.

Polysaccharides, which also found in other beneficial plant foods like sweet potatoes or beets, are immune-modulating substances. They are one of the compounds that help reishi mushrooms protect the DNA and block cell mutations while preserving healthy cells in the body. (5) According to some studies, certain medicinal mushrooms help fight cancer because polysaccharides have important biological benefits including antioxidant, neuro-protective, radio-protective, anti-diabetes, anti-osteoporosis and anti-fatigue abilities.

Additionally, laboratory tests have demonstrated that the triterpenes found in reishi mushrooms may also have cancer-fighting properties, which is one reason why brightly-colored or bitter-tasting, antioxidant-rich foods like pumpkin, berries and black rice have a reputation for promoting health. Triterpene compounds seem to inhibit tumor formation and metastases by limiting the attachment of cancerous cells to endothelial cells. Beta-glucans can also help fight off cancer formation by blocking the growth and spread of cancer cells and increasing the activity of the immune system.

Studies have turned up promising results on the link between the reishi mushroom and cancer prevention; it has been successfully used to help fight cancer of the breasts, ovaries, prostate, liver and lungs in in-vitro studies, sometimes in combination with other treatments.

Research in cancer patients suggests that reishi has antiproliferative and chemopreventive effects, helping alleviate side effects of chemotherapy like low immunity and nausea and potentially enhancing the efficacy of radiotherapy, making the reishi mushroom one of the most powerful cancer-fighting foods available.

2. Improves Liver Function

The liver is one of the most vital organs in the body and is responsible for aiding in detoxification and helping clean, process, store and circulate healthy blood and nutrients.

Reishi mushrooms work as an adaptogen to help improve liver function and prevent liver disease, allowing your body to flush out toxins and bacteria more efficiently and improving immunity against diseases that can develop over time. A 2013 study published in the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms found that reishi induces hepatoprotective effects on acute liver injury because it contains antioxidant properties and fights harmful immune responses that slow down liver function.

3. Promotes Heart Health

The triterpenes found in the reishi mushroom may have blood pressure-lowering abilities as well as benefits for blood-clotting and cholesterol, likely because they help lower inflammation within blood vessels and arteries while also restoring hormonal balance.  High blood pressure and high cholesterol can sometimes be caused by hormonal issues, including thyroid disorders or high amounts of stress, but reishi mushrooms help restore optimal hormonal levels to strengthen the cardiovascular system.

In addition to lowering blood pressure, reishi mushroom extract can improve overall circulation, lower inflammation that worsens heart problems and prevent clogged arteries by keeping cholesterol under control.

4. Balances Hormone Levels

Reishi mushrooms work as adaptogens, meaning they can help your body cope with stress more efficiently and help regulate hormone levels to optimize your health. Although research is currently limited to mostly animal models, some studies indicate that reishi mushroom extract could help normalize levels of certain receptor hormones, which may be beneficial in the treatment of cancer.

Other studies show that it can also protect and positively impact the endocrine system, which encompasses the glands throughout the body that are responsible for the production of hormones.  This could have far-reaching effects on many aspects of health, as the endocrine system has a direct impact on metabolism, growth, sleep, mood and sexual function.

5. Stabilizes Blood Sugar

Sustaining high levels of blood sugar can bring detrimental effects to overall health, causing symptoms like fatigue, unintentional weight loss and frequent urination. Some research shows that reishi mushrooms may have anti-diabetic properties, helping to maintain normal blood sugar levels to prevent adverse side effects.

For example, one review out of Taiwan showed that reishi mushrooms were able to decrease levels of both blood sugar and insulin in mice. They also helped modify levels of certain enzymes involved in blood sugar control and improved the way that the body uses insulin to transport sugar from the bloodstream to the tissues to be used as fuel.

6. Fights Allergies and Asthma

One of the active ingredients of reshi mushrooms are triterpenes, a type of ganoderic acid that is tied to a reduction in allergies and histamine reactions associated with asthma. For this reason, the reishi mushroom is often used as a safe and effective asthma natural remedy.

Triterpenes are capable of lowering allergic reactions because of the way they affect the immune system, strengthen the digestive organs, protect the gut lining, lower inflammation, inhibit a histamine release, improve oxygen utilization and improve liver functions.

7. Protects Against Infections and Viruses

Reishi mushrooms are considered a natural antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal substance thanks to the active compounds that they contain. For example, aside from relieving allergies, triterpenes offer protection against microbial, viral and fungal infections. Triterpenes can be found in many plant foods that taste somewhat bitter, a sign that they’re protective in nature and defend the plant against predators.

Because reishi mushrooms can improve blood circulation and lower inflammation, they can help resolve infections more quickly, reduce pain and fight fatigue. Reishi mushrooms have been used to help treat symptoms and underlying causes of urinary tract infections, hepatitis and even HIV/AIDS.

The Mushroom Battle: Reishi Mushroom vs. Turkey Tail vs. Chaga vs. Lion’s Mane vs. Shiitake

Are mushrooms good for you? If you’ve ever had any doubts, take a look at any of the powerful nutrients found in of any of these medicinal mushrooms and you’re bound to be a believer in the many health benefits of mushrooms.

Here’s a quick breakdown of how the reishi mushroom compares to other popular varieties of medicinal mushrooms:

  • Reishi Mushroom: balances hormone levels, improves heart and liver function, stabilizes blood sugar levels and fights allergies, asthma and infection
  • Turkey Tail Mushroom: feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut, prevents infections and combats cancer cells
  • Lion’s Mane Mushroom: protects brain function, relieves inflammation, preserves digestive health and fights free radical formation
  • Chaga Mushroom: enhances endurance, reduces inflammation, stimulates immune function and contains anti-viral properties
  • Shiitake Mushroom: supports immunity, fights cancer cells, promotes skin health and supplies a hearty dose of important B-vitamins to maintain energy levels

Additionally, different mushroom varieties have distinct differences in the ways that they are used and enjoyed. For example, reishi, turkey tail and chaga are all most often found in supplement form while lion’s mane and shiitake are more palatable and can be swapped in for other mushrooms in your favorite recipes.

Where to Find & How to Use Reishi Mushrooms

Wondering where to buy reishi mushroom supplements? Thanks to their growing popularity, you’re likely to come across reishi mushroom powder, capsule or extract supplements in health food stores or online. It’s important to always read the directions carefully since dosage can vary depending on how concentrated the product is and the likelihood of having side effects can increase when you take too much.

If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, you can also try your hand at mushroom foraging; you can typically find reishi mushroom growing in warm regions throughout Asia, the southeastern U.S., southern Europe and the south Pacific. If you have a green thumb, you can also grow the red reishi mushroom at home by purchasing reishi spawn online.

When purchasing reishi, ideally look for products that are certified pure, produced in Asian countries and in extract or essence form. There are many different types of reishi products available, all of which have different levels of active ingredients that are affected by factors including the plant’s mother fungi, the growing conditions and the processing method used to extract the reishi.

Products from Japan are considered to be some of the purest and are usually cultivated using techniques that preserve the delicate compounds in reishi. Check the product’s labeling for the species name (Ganoderma lucidum), extract ratio, country of origin and if any fillers are added.

Reishi mushrooms are often said to be most effective if you take them in the morning on an empty stomach. Drinking water along with reishi seems to help them absorb best, as does pairing them with vitamin C foods, which can ensure proper absorption of the active ingredients and antioxidants. You can also try using them to brew up a cup of reishi mushroom tea or Ganoderma coffee to start your morning on the right foot.

Prebiotics Vs Probiotics

Are fermented foods as good for you as the headlines say?

Are fermented foods as good for you as the headlines say?

Sales of fermented foods and products that contain live bacteria and yeasts known as probiotics are now worth billions of pounds a year. But is this way of eating really a recipe for a healthy gut and improved wellbeing – or just another fad? Sue Quinn investigates.

Scientists’ rapidly expanding knowledge about the microbes in our guts and the effect they have on our health has seen sales of foods containing probiotics soar in recent years. The global market for these foods, drinks and supplements that claim to contain live beneficial bacteria was worth £30 billion in 2015 according to one report, and is forecast to rise by almost 50 per cent by 2023. The big question is, do probiotics actually work?

Research into the human microbiome – the billions of microbes that call the human body home – is still in its infancy, but according to scientists working on this new medical frontier, some facts are clear. Gut bacteria are crucial for human health, especially for brain development, digestion and maintaining a healthy immune system. Disruption of certain gut microbes, scientists believe, might be responsible for a wide range of common health problems, too.

The question is, can we really improve the diversity of microbes in our guts, and therefore our health, by downing a daily bottle of yogurt drink that has so-called good bacteria or probiotics added, or by chomping through a bowl of fermented vegetables?

Gut bacteria and probiotics
Incredibly, the collection of microbes that live in the average adult’s gut weighs just over a kilogram – about the same as the human brain. The microbes help break down food that we can’t digest, extract key nutrients and essential vitamins, and produce chemicals that aid bodily functions. The wider the variety of bacteria in our gut the better, as poor diversity is associated with (but not proven to cause) a range of health problems including obesity, diabetes, mood disorders, infertility and even cancer.

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are thought to give gut microbes a healthy boost, although scientists don’t fully understand them yet. They’re added to probiotic drinks (although the term ‘probiotic’ can’t legally appear on the label) and are naturally present in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, miso, kombucha, kimchi and sauerkraut. But does eating them really benefit our gut bacteria? “It’s uncertain whether probiotics have a definite effect or not,” says Professor Tim Spector, professor of genetic epidemiology at King’s College London and author of The Diet Myth: The Real Science Behind What We Eat. “But the emerging evidence suggests they do.”

The official advice from the NHS is that some probiotics might help in some cases. Professor Spector agrees, adding that people with specific health problems such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), poor immunity or those who have just finished a course of antibiotics (which can wipe out protective gut bacteria) are most likely to benefit. “Most of the diseases we are seeing now are associated with a lack of beneficial microbes, and it’s usually several in a group,” he says. “These might be microbes known for dampening inflammation, so people who lack these tend to be those getting autoimmune diseases.”

There’s no proof that probiotics benefit healthy people, but Dr Gemma Walton, a gut microbiologist at Reading University, says some studies suggest they might. “We never know when we are likely to encounter something that could make us unwell,” she says. “If you ate something that gave you astroenteritis, for example, you’d probably be better equipped to deal with it with a fortified microbiome. Studies analysing instances of diarrhoea among travellers showed those taking a specific probiotic were less likely to suffer from a stomach upset – or they experienced symptoms for a shorter time.” But which probiotic foods are best?

‘Natural’ probiotics are better
Probiotic foods aren’t tested in the same rigorous way as medicines. So it’s difficult for consumers to be sure whether a probiotic food actually contains the bacteria stated on the label, or enough of them to have an effect. It’s also impossible to know whether sufficient bacteria will survive exposure to stomach acids and thrive in the gut. In fact, in 2014 when scientists at University College London put eight probiotic drinks and supplements through three tests, only one product passed them all.

Professor Spector points out that yogurt drinks with probiotics added by the manufacturer generally contain just a few strains of bacteria, so he suggests opting for kefir, a fermented milk drink. “If there’s 
a natural food alternative to yogurt drinks, take it,” he says. “Kefir probably has five times as many species of bacteria as yogurt drinks.”

Then there’s prebiotics…
Some researchers believe the key to good gut health might be prebiotics – high-fibre foods that feed the good bacteria in our guts. Fermented vegetables such as kimchi and sauerkraut are prebiotics as well as probiotics. Other effective prebiotics include onions, celery, asparagus, chicory and garlic.

“Prebiotics are types of food that our own enzymes don’t break down, so they arrive in the large intestine and can be used by the bacteria that live within,” explains Dr Walton. “Prebiotics promote the growth or activities of some positive bacteria that we already have within us, changing the balance of bacteria to one that is likely to be more favourable.”

The verdict
A lot more research is needed into probiotic and prebiotic foods, but scientists believe the very sick, the very young and the very old might benefit from them. There could be advantages for healthy people, too. Opt for fermented foods over yogurt drinks and eat a varied diet that includes prebiotics.

Professor Spector’s 5 tips for gut health

  1. Try a shot of kefir every morning, ideally on an empty stomach.
  2. Kombucha is one of the richest sources of healthy microbes.
  3. Other natural probiotics worth trying include fermented foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut, miso
  4. Eat a wide variety of foods and try new things to encourage the diversity of gut bacteria.
  5.  nuts are particularly good at nourishing gut microbes.

Professor Spector and a team of gut experts have launched a new testing service that enables you to have your gut microbes analysed by health professionals.

plant -based Diet Supresses cancer cells

How Cancer Tumors Use Meat To Fuel Their Growth

The rate of instances of diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, cancer, autism, and many more continues to increase at an alarming rate. Since we first began recording statistics on disease we have seen a skyrocketing upward trend which has many scientists and researchers looking for answers, most notably towards our environment. We are surrounded by toxins on a daily basis, and we are also ingesting them constantly. Scientists have been examining the many common habits of modern humans, and one of those habits clearly includes eating a tremendous amount of meat.

How Meat Fuels Tumor Growth

The association between meat consumption and diseases like cancer is no secret. Ever since researchers started studying the links between diet and cancer, one thing has stood out above the rest: people who avoided eating meat were much less likely to develop cancer.(1)(2) Many studies have shown that there is a significantly decreased risk of cancer associated with veganism.

The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) published their second review of the major studies that have taken place with regards to diet and cancer prevention. They determined that, for multiple cancers, red meat (beef, pork, or lamb) as well as processed meat consumption increases cancer risk.

Studies have also shown that specific chemicals formed when meat is cooked (specifically HCAs and PAHs) can also be linked to cancer, and when I say “linked,” I mean there is a serious cause for concern. There is a great deal of evidence to support the claim that high meat consumption leads to cancer. One such example involves a recent case-control study conducted at the University of Utah. The study included 952 subjects with rectal cancer and 1205 controls, and found that men and women with the highest consumption of processed or well-cooked meat showed an increased risk for developing rectal cancer.

Cooking meat produces (as mentioned above) what are called Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons. These are widely believed to play a significant role in human cancers.  I find this to be one (out of many) remarkable examples of how there is plenty of strong evidence, yet mainstream medical literature considers the link between meat consumption and cancer inconclusive.

Keep in mind, when looking at this type of science it’s important to use the Bradford Hill Criteria when doing your research

In another study, researchers followed and analyzed the diets of more than 525,000 participants to determine whether there might be a link between the consumption of fats from red meat and dairy, and pancreatic cancer. They found that the more people ate these particular fats, the higher the risk of pancreatic cancer. Interestingly, this same study found no association between plant-food fat and pancreatic cancer.

The list goes on and on. Another recent study published in the British Journal of Cancer found that vegetarians are 12 percent less likely to develop cancer than meat-eaters overall. They followed 61,000 meat-eaters and vegetarians for over 12 years, and also discovered that cancers of the blood, such as leukemia, multiple myeloma, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, were significantly (“drastically” as they say in the study) reduced by as much as 45 percent for those following a vegetarian diet.  Although this study points to an overall reduced risk, this may well be an underestimate of the benefits of vegetarianism. Previous studies have shown as much as a 40 percent reduced risk for all cancers.

On the flip side, one could certainly point out the fact that many people go their whole lives eating cooked meat and live long healthy lives. That might hold true for some, but definitely not all. No one can deny that cancer rates are pretty ridiculous today, and it would be wise to start to take a closer look at our human experience. All of us need to help turn things around, and this is one area of our lives that we can easily control.

It’s also noteworthy to  mention the fact that the meat available to us today is laden with drugs and other contaminants, and that GMO feed is causing a great deal of damage to the animals consuming it, and us in turn.

There are plenty of studies to choose from, though I am aware that studies do have their limitations. At the same time, think of the Bradford Hill criteria – when you have so much consistency and so many links, it is highly logical to make certain conclusions.

Whenever you have some time to think, whenever you pause for a moment during your day, consider taking a step back and really observing what we are doing to our planet and how we rationalize it. There is much to see, including, of course, the fact that an enormous amount of people consume meat on a daily basis. I don’t mean to say that this is inherently wrong, or to lay judgement down, but merely to question why we do this knowing it’s detrimental to our health and to the environment.

Sometimes bringing up topics like this can rub people the wrong way, but facts are facts; we currently live in a society where so many people have closed their minds to new possibilities, new explanations, and in many cases, new evidence. For example, many people still believe that consuming meat on a daily basis is a completely natural, and that throughout different stages in our evolution we have always eaten meat. This simply isn’t true. In fact, most of our ancestors were completely vegetarian, and the ones that ate meat appear to have had a much higher percentage of plant food than meat in their diet. Pointing to the “cave man diet” (a completely false idea) is not really a valid justification for eating meat, and it doesn’t mean that we are “designed” to eat meat at all. You can read more about that, and access specific studies about the the “cave man diet” myth

If you are truly curious about meat and its association with human disease, hopefully this article is a good kick start for you to start doing some research about it.

Produce by

Vitamin B-12 @ Thalassa nutrition

Vitamin B-12 Recommendations for Plant-based and Vegans

B-12 is a crucial nutrient for vegans. Not having a reliable source almost guarantees serious long-term health problems.
Of all the nutrients that vegans must pay attention to, Vitamin B12 is at the very top of the list. It is essential for nervous system health, so every vegan needs to take this nutrient seriously. People with B12 deficiency risk developing a variety of conditions ranging from the worrisome to the horrific.

Vitamin B12 is found exclusively in foods of animal origin, and the amount of this nutrient present in an unfortified vegan diet is essentially zero. It can, however, take several years for a deficiency to arise, since B12 is stored in the liver. It’s dangerous to be complacent about finding a reliable source of B12 because deficiency can creep up over time, silently doing damage before symptoms arise. One of the great annoyances of being vegan is that you will sometimes encounter other vegans who insist that there’s no need to take a B12 supplement. Generally speaking these people will say something like, “I’ve been vegan for eight years, never take B12 supplements, and I’m in perfect health,” but meanwhile they’re all twitchy and something just isn’t right. In many cases these people will experience a health crisis, return to eating meat, and then tell the world that a vegan diet leads to failed health. Unfortunately, having a productive dialog with these folks is generally futile, just like there’s no reasoning with the Vegan Police.

Why are there so many vegans who take pride in spurning B12 supplements? It’s because back in the 1980s and 1990s several prominent vegan advocacy books came out that downplayed the need for vegans to take B12. Because these books were published at a time when there weren’t many reliable vegan books available, B12 misinformation got a big head start on the truth. There are all sorts of ludicrous arguments asserting that vegans don’t need B12, ranging from the idea that it’s produced in your intestines (it isn’t, at least in a way that you can absorb), that it’s found in algae or seaweed (no, it’s not), or that you can get enough B12 by not washing your vegetables (that’s just silly.)

In at least a couple cases, the vegan authors contributing to B12 complacency went back to eating animal products. But the damage these books have done have produced ripple effects continuing to today.

Meeting Your B12 Needs

The B12 needs of vegans can easily be met through supplements or by regularly eating B12 fortified foods. Some B12 supplements contain non-vegan ingredients, but the supplements featured on this page are all vegan.

B12 isn’t absorbed especially well when it’s swallowed in a tablet. You’ll get better absorption if you purchase B12 lozenges or ‘sublingual tablets’, which are different words for the same thing. You let these tablets dissolve under your tongue, and the B12 is absorbed through the capillaries in your mouth. A sensible dosage is a 1000 to 2000 microgram tablet taken a few times a week. Note that many brands of B12 contain methylcobalamin, but cyanocobalamin is currently considered the better choice by nutritionists who’ve carefully studied the topic.

Foods commonly fortified with B12 include non-dairy milks, cereals, meat substitutes, energy bars, and nutritional yeast. You have to check the nutrition label for B12, since many of these foods aren’t supplemented, or are supplemented in tiny amounts. Note that B12 fortified foods are dosed with the very same B12 that gets put into tablets, so obtaining your B12 through fortified vegan foods is in no way more “natural” than getting it through tablets. Additionally, it may be difficult to meet your B12 needs through fortified foods, since comparatively few products are fortified, and B12 fortification of foods is often at low levels.

For most vegans, it’s therefore much easier and more reliable to simply buy a bottle of vegan B12 lozenges. Sublingual B12 supplements are easy to find online or at any natural foods store. Of the dozens of B12 supplements Amazon stocks, probably the best buy is Now Foods’ 2000 microgram cyanocobalamin lozenges. A bottle comes in under $10, and gives you a large dose of B-12, that includes the cyanocobalamin molecule.

Unless you like burning money, avoid sprays or other high-priced alternative ways to get B12. While sprays may perhaps be more absorbable than lozenges, they also cost vastly more. The one thing you should care about when choosing a vegan B12 brand is bang for the buck. You want to get the most micrograms of cyanocobalamin in the bottle at the lowest cost, while choosing lozenges instead of pills intended to be swallowed. If you pay a premium price for your B12, you’re just being victimized by slick marketing.

Ability to absorb vitamin B12 decreases with age, and some people cannot absorb sufficient B12 orally. Luckily, determining your B12 levels is one of the cheapest bloodwork tests available, and it’s standard on every basic nutrient panel. If your levels are low despite regular use of sublinguals, injections may be warranted. Since injections go straight into the muscle, they guarantee that high levels of B12 will be absorbed. These injections require a prescription in the United States, but hypodermic needles pre-loaded with B12 are sold over the counter in Mexico and many other countries. Obviously, injections should only be done by someone with proper qualifications.