Healthy Body

The connection between grass fed beef and omega-3 fatty acids is an important link to one’s health. Livestock who are grass fed produce higher amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, similar to the omega-3 found in fish, fish oils, and cod liver oil.

Since our bodies cannot produce these acids, it is important that they are acquired through foods. Studies have indicated that most people consume foods which are higher in omega-6, which in turn can cause health problems. Most experts recommend that a diet should consist of a balance of both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in order to prevent heart disease and related illnesses.

Other studies have asserted that omega-3 can alleviate and reduce treatment for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. Moreover, omega-3 fatty acids can prevent hypertension, cancer, and inflammatory conditions as well.

One study showed that DHA, a component found in omega-3, may lower the serotonin levels in the brain. They indicate there is a direct link between depression and lack of omega-3. Omega-3 also decreases memory loss and may reduce the development of Alzheimer’s as well.

The assertion that grass fed beef is more beneficial to our health is based on data resulting from a number of studies. Here are five reasons why grass fed beef is preferred:

1. Livestock that are grass fed produce leaner meat.
2. The omega-3 in grass fed beef is seven percent of the fat content, as opposed to one percent in grain fed beef.
3. There are higher amounts of vitamins and minerals in grass fed beef.
4. One of the acids contained in grass fed beef is called CLA, which is a fat that can decrease the development of obesity, diabetes, cancer, and other immune disorders.
5. Grass fed beef is healthier to eat than grain fed beef.

As mentioned earlier, there should be a balance between the amount of omega-6 and omega-3 in our daily diet. The reason is that a study recently conducted affirmed that women who have a higher intake of omega-3 fatty acids significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Here are a few statistics that may be of interest: The ratio of omega-3 in grass fed beef versus a chicken breast is four to one. Grass fed beef also has lower cholesterol levels than a chicken breast. The CLA ratio in grass fed beef as opposed to a chicken breast is three to one.

The connection between grass fed beef and omega-3 fatty acids is based on solid research and data. The next time you go grocery shopping you may want to ask, “Where’s the Beef?” instead of choosing a package of chicken breasts.

Ingredients:

1 lb. ground, lean turkey or beef
6 Tablespoons bread crumbs
1 ½ C. shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
¼ C. finely chopped onion
¼ c. finely chopped bell pepper
¼ teaspoon dried, minced garlic
2/3 C. lite ketchup
Butter flavored cooking spray

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9 x 5 inch pan with cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine meat, breadcrumbs, coleslaw mix, onion, pepper, garlic, and one-half of ketchup. Mix well. Pat mixture into pan and bake for 45 minutes. Spread remaining ketchup on top of loaf and bake 15 minutes longer. (Serves 6)

Low salt, low calorie, low fat

As we get older, we face the prospect of health-related issues, memory problems and loss of physical acuity. But while some believe that age is just a number, others assert you are as old as you feel. Well, depending upon how you feel one thing is certain – finding the “fountain of youth” may be just as difficult as grabbing the brass ring. In this regard, perhaps there is another alternative available: slow aging with bee pollen. Let’s take a look at the possibilities.

We know that bee pollen not only has an energizing effect but because it contains antioxidants, it can halt the aging process by rallying the cells in the body. This process of rejuvenation has been the subject of considerable research. Here is one case study.

A biologist, who is also an expert in geriatrics, did a study in the mountains of Russia where the population is known to live longer than most. What he found was quite startling. While most of the people he examined exhibited signs that they were suffering from heart disease, they were still engaging in hard work on a daily basis and enjoyed participating in local activities. The people were quite old, and the biologist couldn’t figure out why these particular people had defied the aging process.

Upon further research, he found that the common factor among these people was they all kept beehives. While they were considered quite poor and mostly bartered with their neighbors, they would pay for services with honey taken from the beehives they owned. But what they did not barter away was the substance that could be found at the bottom of these beehives. This substance was bee pollen. Thus, he concluded, the bee pollen not only slowed the aging process for these people, but extended it considerably.

Why is this research so remarkable? Because the 200 men and women he studied were over the age of 125 – all active, all engaged in daily living, and consuming bee pollen on a daily basis.

Studies have shown conclusively that bee pollen increases mental and physical acuity, and increases the metabolism as well as the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. As delineated in the study, while it appeared that the people involved had suffered cardiovascular disease, there were no other acute signs showing any significant limitations. Indeed, in the example given these people were energetic, free of stress, able to function on a daily basis, and obviously maintained a healthy state – both physically and mentally.

Can bee pollen slow the aging process? There seems to be no evidence to the contrary, at the moment.

To fully understand the differences between raw, pasteurized, and homogenized milk, let’s take a look at each and discover what it all means.

Raw Milk

Approximately 1% of the population ingests raw milk. Its health benefits have been studied and the data concludes that it is well known for helping to cure various ailments including rickets in children, diabetes, skin conditions, allergies, arthritis, TB, and heart disease, among others. There is, however, an ongoing debate as to its efficacy. While health institutes strongly object to its use because it can adversely affect pregnant women and cause a myriad of illnesses, proponents suggest otherwise.

Raw milk contains vitamins, minerals, protein and amino acids, and enzymes which are important to maintain good health. As long as the milk is “clean”, that is, the farmer who distributes it utilizes high standards, the cows are fed fresh green grass, and the milk is cooled and bottled; it is considered safe and effective.

Pasteurized Milk

Opponents of raw milk are definitive in their assertion that pasteurized milk is healthier. During the pasteurization process, all the bacteria that is contained in raw milk is destroyed. But pasteurization destroys vitamins, nutrients, and proteins as well. So the controversy surrounding raw milk versus pasteurized milk is still ongoing.
Studies on pasteurized milk have shown that it may cause illnesses such as listeria, salmonella, and E. coli.

Conversely, while raw milk contains high amounts of calcium needed for strong bones and increased growth, the pasteurization of milk all but kills the calcium and other important ingredients required to maintain good health. In addition, pasteurized milk has been known to cause allergic reactions and illnesses such as diabetes, asthma, ear infections, weight gain, osteoporosis, and other related diseases.

Homogenized Milk

The process of homogenizing of milk involves mixing the cream content into the milk itself. Where does the cream come from? Well, when you milk a cow the cream flows to the top. During the homogenization process, the fat from the cream is broken down so it is absorbed into the milk.

Many experts consider this process detrimental since studies indicate that when the fat is broken down, the enzyme known as xantine oxidase is released. This is a process of oxidation that occurs when the fat is exposed to air and increases the chances the milk will spoil. When this milk is ingested, it can penetrate the intestinal wall and cause damage to the arteries and heart, even resulting in heart disease and atherosclerosis.

While there are a large number of consumers who swear by the health benefits of raw milk, there are just as many who oppose this as a health alternative. One thing is clear; the case against drinking homogenized milk falls somewhere in the middle.

4 medium baking potatoes
1 C. chopped spring onions
1 C. chopped mushrooms
1 (8 oz.) package soft tofu, drained & mashed
2 Tablespoons chopped parsley
1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon honey
paprika
Butter flavored cooking spray

Wash and dry potatoes. Using an ice pick or sharp knife, stick a hole all the way through each potato. Coat potatoes with a thin layer of cooking spray. Place potatoes in a microwave safe dish and cook on high for 10 minutes. Turn potatoes over and cook 10 minutes longer. Cut baked potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out insides, leaving a cup that is about ¼ inch thick.

Combine onion and mushrooms in skillet. Cover and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until mushrooms become tender. Combine scooped out potato with tofu, parsley, mustard and honey. Mix well. Stir in mushrooms and onions.

Re-fill potato skins with tofu mixture and sprinkle with paprika. Reheat in microwave for 2-5 minutes or until heated through. (Serves 4)

Low salt, low fat, low calorie, no cholesterol

According to the dictionary, proteins are: “fundamental components of all living cells and include many substances, such as enzymes, hormones, and antibodies that are necessary for the proper functioning of an organism. They are essential in the diet of animals for the growth and repair of tissue and can be obtained from foods such as meat, fish, eggs, milk, and legumes.” Raw milk is high in protein and here are the reasons why raw milk may be a healthy alternative.

Raw milk contains all the amino acids we need and since proteins consist of amino acids, it follows that we need amino acids to build protein. These proteins allow for easy absorption of iron, have anti-cancer properties, and anti-viral properties. They also help prevent bacteria from forming on the teeth, which can cause cavities.

In addition, the protein in raw milk can rid the body of “bad” bacteria and provide antibodies that play an important role in resisting viruses and toxins. These proteins have also been known to decrease the symptoms of asthma.

It should be noted here that pasteurizing milk not only destroys the “good” bacteria and other necessary nutrients, but significantly reduces the overall amount of protein in the milk.

To further delineate the importance of protein in milk, take a look at a label on a carton of regular milk and 1% milk. The protein amount is 16% or 8 grams for both. In raw milk, the protein is 80% casein. What is casein? It is the protein consisting of amino acids which are digested at a slower rate. This is important because it releases the amino acids over a seven-hour period. The whey protein in raw milk is 20%, and its amino acids are released within an hour.

Why is slow amino acid release so important? Ask any body-builder and he will tell you that it allows for increased muscle growth which is based upon how well protein breaks down in the body. The slower the body absorbs the protein, the less likely the protein will be suppressed.

Other important components of raw milk are enzymes which are made up of different kinds of proteins. One enzyme found in raw milk, for example, acts as an anti-bacterial agent.

While we know that pasteurized milk is void of some of the necessary nutrients and enzymes that are most beneficial to the body, raw milk contains protein and enzymes as well as vitamins necessary to maintain one’s overall health. Remember, too, that bacteria in raw milk also serves as a protective agent against pathogens.

Eczema is a skin condition which causes red, dry skin, and it can appear anywhere on the surface of the body. Although there are topical creams such as hydrocortisone medications that can be used to alleviate the symptoms, organic coconut oil to treat eczema can be more effective.

Since coconut oil contains medium chain fatty acids and has an anti-inflammatory agent, when applied to the affected area it not only penetrates rapidly but can reduce the inflammation caused by eczema.

In addition, the medium chain fatty acids in coconut oil prevent bacterial infections from forming on the skin. While the topical creams available today can be readily used to ward off dry skin, the difference is that these creams contain other agents which may or may not offer relief. On the other hand, organic coconut oil is unprocessed and its results are immediate. It is a more natural method to use for a variety of skin conditions.

Eczema can present itself in many different forms, including:

- Atopic dermatitis which is inherently genetic, especially among families who have a history of allergies or asthma.      - Contact dermatitis which is caused by irritants such as cleaning detergents, cosmetics, and related allergens.
-Â Seborrheic dermatitis which is predominant among individuals who have oily skin.
-Â Stasis dermatitis which is a condition caused by excessive fluid that accumulates beneath the skin.
-Â Neurodermatitis which can be developed by irritants such as clothing.
-Â Perioral dermatitis which is similar to acne and could be caused by topical creams or makeup.

One of the ways to prevent eczema is by avoiding those products that irritate the skin such as make-up, scented creams and soaps, perfumes, fabric softeners, and other allergens.

Eczema is an irritating condition that affects children and adults. As a general rule, keeping the skin moisturized on a daily basis can alleviate the symptoms and prevent skin inflammation as well. This is especially true during winter months. Having organic coconut oil on hand is not only a great idea to treat eczema, but it can also be used to massage your skin.

As we learn more about the health benefits of natural remedies, we are also less likely to depend upon prescription medications or over-the-counter topical creams to cure skin conditions. Coconut oil is just one of the many effective alternatives used to treat a variety of health problems. Besides treating eczema, it assists in weight loss, can be used as an alternative to other oils, can be used on salads, and has absolutely no chemicals, additives, or preservatives. No wonder the palm on which it grows is called ‘The Tree of Life”.

Ingredients:

4 (5 oz.) chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1 Tablespoon lemon juice
1/3 C. lite apricot preserves
Dash ground allspice

Directions:

Pat chicken dry and place on broiler rack. Broil for about 6 minutes. Brush first side with lemon juice, turn chicken over and brush with remaining juice. Broil second side 6-9 minutes or until no longer pink. Heat apricot preserves and allspice in a small saucepan. Spoon over chicken breasts and serve. Wonderful served with brown rice. (Serves 4)

Low salt, low calorie, low fat, low cholesterol

The historical significance of the coconut and the oil extracted from it has been the source of numerous studies and research. The fact that the coconut has been proven to be beneficial to our health cannot be overstated. The nutritional value of coconut oil, however, is just as important. Let’s examine the reasons why.

Coconut oil contains medium chain fatty acids, which means when the oil is consumed as part of a diet regimen, it is rapidly turned into an energy source and not body fat. This process allows for weight loss since one becomes fully sated after each meal.

Coconut oil also plays a role in digestion. Studies indicate that because this oil can be easily absorbed, it is primarily utilized for individuals who have problems digesting foods. The oil also allows for the absorption of minerals which is vital to the elderly in decreasing the rapidity of degeneration. In addition, because coconut oil absorbs calcium and magnesium, it is used for infants who are malnourished.

Studies performed among Polynesians assert that when coconut oil is consumed as part of their normal diet, they have less risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Moreover, their cholesterol levels were dramatically reduced.

Coconut oil has also been touted as supporting the immune system since it contains the medium chain fatty acids which consist of saturated fats. These fats allow for the antioxidants to remain intact whereas unsaturated oils are said to quickly break down vitamins essential to one’s health. This is especially effective in the treatment of HIV/AIDS patients.

Research into coconut oil and cancer has yielded significant results. It shows that unsaturated fats play a role in the advancement of colon and breast cancer, whereas saturated fats decrease the incidence by a wide margin.

While researching the effect of vegetable oil, results have determined that it can cause disease and increase the aging process. However, coconut oil can be used as an alternative method in reducing the amount of hydrogenated and polyunsaturated oils that can cause these diseases from the outset.

Finally, we know that coconut oil has an anti-microbial agent. The lauric acid in coconut oil allows for the anti-microbial agent to exist, unlike other oils available today.  While coconut oil contains the medium chain fatty acids, so does breast milk. Thus, when coconut oil is added to a mother’s diet, it effectively helps protect the infant from developing bacterial infections.

Coconut oil has been recognized as one of the most formidable dietary oils for centuries, with a high nutritional value. It cannot be denied, then, that this oil has helped decrease the incidence of disease and has proven to be among the most effective medicinal cures nature can provide.

Few may have considered bee pollen to be a source of nutrition for humans. However, bee pollen is actually known to be rich in protein, vitamins, amino acids, and folic acid.

Individuals who maintain a diet that is lacking in nutrition are vulnerable to many diseases. Bee pollen is widely used to improve health and has the ability to increase the production of blood cells in those who have anemia, prevent allergies, increase energy levels, build up the immune system against allergens, prevent infections, and may have anti-cancer properties as well.

What are the components in bee pollen that makes it so effective? Well, it contains eighteen amino acids, vitamins, calcium, copper, iron, phosphorous, potassium, fatty acids, carbohydrates, and protein. It also contains rutin which, taken as a supplement, can increase blood circulation, and has been used to treat hemorrhoids and varicose veins.

The nutritional value of bee pollen to humans is quite amazing when you think about it. It really does sustain life and is considered to be a healthy, nutrition-filled food. According to one study done with honeybees, researchers have stated that “if bee pollen had none of its other vital ingredients, its content of rutin alone would justify taking at least a teaspoon daily, if for no other reason than strengthening the capillaries.”

They even go as far as to say that not even animal products contain the amount of protein that can be found in bee pollen. Also, the amino acid in bee pollen is higher than that found in dairy products and meat.

Bee pollen used as a nutritional supplement can enhance stamina, as well as prevent aging, prostate conditions, rheumatism, and cerebral hemorrhage. It also has an antibiotic agent that has been shown to be effective against salmonella poisoning and certain bacteria.

While we probably know that taking bee pollen can prevent allergies in which one can develop an immune reaction to allergens, it is quite exciting to know that it has so many nutritional values as well. As we strive to find alternative methods to improve and enhance our health, the benefits of bee pollen are well documented and cannot be overstated.

One holistic doctor commented that bee pollen is the best treatment available to reduce the symptoms of old age and should be used as a natural geriatric remedy worldwide.