Introduction:

We are always looking for ways to improve our health. One of the best ways to do that is by eating vegetables every day.   Incorporating more veggies into your diet can have some serious health benefits.

Some serious benefits of eating vegetables daily:

Boosts Your Immune System

One of the best things that eating vegetables every day can do for you is boosting your immune system. This is because veggies are packed with vitamins and minerals that your body needs to function properly.

Help You Lose Weight:

Vegetables are low in calories and high in fiber, which helps you feel full longer and prevents overeating. They’re also packed with nutrients that boost your metabolism and help your body burn fat more efficiently.

Keeps Your Skin and Hair Looking Healthy

Eating vegetables every day can help keep your skin looking young and healthy. This is because veggies are loaded with antioxidants, which help to protect your skin cells from damage. Antioxidants can also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Vegetables have amazing nutritional qualities:

Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for healthy skin and hair, as it helps to keep cell membranes functioning properly. 

Sweet potatoes are another excellent source of beta-carotene, and they also contain high levels of vitamins C and E. Vitamin C is necessary for the production of collagen, while vitamin E helps to protect against damage from UV rays. 

Spinach is another vegetable that contains vitamins C and E, as well as iron and magnesium. These nutrients are essential for healthy skin and hair, making spinach a true powerhouse when it comes to maintaining a youthful appearance.

Veggies promote a Healthy Pregnancy:

Eating vegetables every day can promote a healthy pregnancy. This is because veggies are an excellent source of folic acid, which is essential for the development of the neural tube in the baby’s brain and spine.

 Eating veggies lowers your risk of Heart Disease:

Eating vegetables every day can also lower your risk of developing heart disease. This is because veggies are rich in fiber, which helps to lower cholesterol levels and keep your blood pressure in check. Fiber can also help to prevent plaque buildup in your arteries, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

Veggies reduce your risk of some cancers:

Another benefit of eating vegetables every day is that it can reduce your risk of developing cancer. This is because veggies contain phytochemicals, which have been shown to protect cells from damage that could lead to cancerous growths.

Conclusion:

A diet rich in vegetables and fruits can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, prevent some types of cancer, lower risk of eye and digestive problems, and have a positive effect upon blood sugar, which can help keep appetite in check.

Introduction:

Gallbladder stones are largely a result of lifestyle issues, although sometimes they can be caused by another disease, genetics or medication, which means they can be treated with improvements to one’s lifestyle. Gallstones often react well to naturopathic treatments.  A gallstone is a lump of hardened tissue and fluids – such as cholesterol, calcium and bile – which clog ducts in the gallbladder.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has been used as a natural treatment for several disorders, such as indigestion, and it has also been used to help break down gallstones.

Dandelion

Dandelion has been a longstanding liver cleansing agent, but it can also be effective in treating gallbladder and bile duct problems. The leaves are easily incorporated into salads or dried and drank as a surprisingly soothing tea; the roots (dried, roasted and ground) are particularly effective and delicious as a natural coffee.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture, arguably the oldest form of medicine still performed today, can help alleviate your gallstones. Acupuncture can reduce inflammation, and inflammation of the gallbladder is commonly linked with gallstones, acupuncture can be an effective treatment option. Acupuncture may also help alleviate back pain and nausea, two symptoms commonly associated with gallstones.

Psyllium Husk

Psyllium husks have been used not only to protect against the formation of cholesterol gallstones, but it has been found to help the cardiovascular and pancreatic systems as well.  Psyllium husks are made using the seeds of the plantago ovata plant. It is a soluble fiber that acts as a gentle laxative.

Artichokes

Artichokes are a delicious addition to your meal, and the good news is that they are amazing for healthy gallbladder and liver function, as well as stimulating bile production.

 

LysimachiaeHerba

It is known as ‘gold coin grass’, lysimachiaeherba is a traditional Chinese remedy for gallstones. It is available as a powder or a liquid; it has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine for treating and preventing cholesterol gallstones.

Milk Thistle

Milk Thistle is another ‘ancient’ recipe for detoxing your liver, and can be taken in capsule, tablet or tonic form. It aids in healthy liver function helps prevent gallstones.  Milk thistle has many benefits, including relief from diabetes, ragweed allergies, and possibly even hormone-sensitive cancers.

A final word of caution:

If your gallstones symptoms are acute or are getting progressively worse, please go to your nearest hospital for emergency assistance. A gallstone getting stuck in the common bile duct is a painful and a life threatening surgical emergency.

Introduction:

Kidney stones are small masses or crystals that form in the kidneys due to deposits of salts and minerals. Kidney stones vary in size; you may not even notice tiny ones that are passed in the urine.

The best way to avoid development and growth of kidney stones is to drink ample water. Luckily, several natural fluids are very effective in getting rid of kidney stones, so you may not need professional treatment.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is well known for its many health benefits and it is completely safe for consumption. All you have to do is add 2 tablespoons of the vinegar in every 8 ounce glass of water you drink throughout the day. It is recommended that you consume about 2 liters of water per day. Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid that helps dissolve the kidneys stones. Do not try this remedy if you suffer from Diabetes or any low bone density disease.

Kidney Bean Broth

If you live on the Asian continent or enjoy their cuisine, kidney beans are probably a regular in your diet. Fortunately, kidney beans can help alleviate many kidney related health problems. Boil a cup of beans in a pan of water until fully cooked. Strain the broth and drink 2-3 cups of it throughout the day. It will assist in dissolving and flushing out kidney stones among other toxins.

Wheat Grass Juice

Wheat grass juice promotes urine flow, thus it is very beneficial for eradicating urinary tract blockage caused by kidney stones. This natural ingredient is rich in nutrients that cleanse the body. One serving (4 to 8 ounces) of wheat grass juice per day is sufficient, as excess can cause constipation or loss of appetite. Take one fourth cup of chopped wheat grass and put it a blender with a cup of water. Drain the blended mixture through a fine strainer or mesh cloth to extract the juice.

Lemon Juice

Freshly squeezed lemon juice is rich in Vitamin C and citrate. The citrate is an acidic chemical that prevents buildup of calcium and helps disintegrate kidney deposits into tiny fragments that can easily pass out with urine. Add a tablespoon or two of lemon juice to every glass of water to get fast results.

Celery Juice

Celery juice is popular for its various medicinal properties, which is why it is traditionally used in many home remedies. Blend a few stalks of celery in a liter of water and drink throughout the day. The juice helps remove toxins that contribute to kidney stone formation. However, it is not recommended if you suffer from low blood pressure or some bleeding disorder.

Pomegranate Juice

Pomegranate juice is rich in antioxidants, which improve the overall function of kidneys. It shall help flush toxins and prevent development of stones in the kidneys. Include a glass of pomegranate juice in your daily diet plan, unless you are taking any medication for the heart or liver.

Dandelion Root Tea

Dandelions are packed with vitamins and minerals that stimulate production of bile, promote digestion, and improve excretory systems of the body. Dandelion roots are easily available at grocery stores or you can use fresh ones from your home garden. Roast the dried roots in a pan on medium heat until golden brown. Then place them in a pan of water and bring to boil. When the water starts boiling, lower the flame and let it simmer for 45 minutes. Then pour into a cup and enjoy your tea.

Basil juice:

Basil is full of nutrients. This remedy has been used for digestive and inflammatory disorders.  There are antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents in basil juice, so it could maintain kidney health. But there’s little evidence to support this remedy.

When to see a doctor:

See a doctor if you’re unable to pass your stone within 6 weeks or you begin experiencing severe symptoms that include:

• severe pain
• bloody urine
• fever with chills
• nausea and vomiting

A doctor will determine whether you need medication or any other therapy to help you pass the stone.

Conclusion:

Although it may be uncomfortable, it’s possible to pass a kidney stone on your own. Oxalate or Oxalic acid is a nutrient found in many plant foods, including leafy greens, fruits, vegetables, and cocoa. You might be advised to limit the intake of foods containing oxalates.  Before changing your diet, consult your healthcare provider or dietitian to find out whether you may benefit from limiting your intake of oxalate-rich foods.

You can take over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers to lessen any pain you may be experiencing. Be sure to continue to follow a doctor’s instructions until the stone passes, and don’t drink alcohol. Once you pass a kidney stone, you may want to save it to take to a doctor for testing. To save the stone, you need to strain your urine.  Talk with a doctor about lifestyle changes you can make to help prevent more stones from forming. Always check in with a doctor before trying home remedies, herbs, or supplements.

Introduction:

Products made from botanicals, or plants that are used to treat diseases or to maintain health are called herbal products.

Herbal supplements may be:

• Swallowed as pills, powders, or tinctures
• Brewed as tea
• Applied to the skin as gels, lotions, or creams
• Added to bath water

The FDA and herbal supplements:

The FDA considers herbal supplements foods, not drugs. Therefore, they are not subject to the same testing, manufacturing, and labeling standards and regulations as drugs. Herbal supplements are not required to be standardized to ensure batch-to-batch consistency.

 Precautions while using Herbal medicines:

Learn as much as you can about the herbs you are taking by consulting your doctor and contacting herbal supplement manufacturers for information.

If you use herbal supplements, follow label instructions carefully and use the prescribed dosage only.

Seek out the services of a trained and licensed herbalist or naturopathic doctor who has extensive training in this area.

Watch for side effects. If symptoms, such as nausea, dizziness, headache, or upset stomach, occur, reduce the dosage or stop taking the herbal supplement.

Be alert for allergic reactions. A severe allergic reaction can cause trouble breathing. Go to the Emergency room if such a problem occurs, Call for help.

Most common herbal supplements:

Black cohosh	This shrub-like plant of eastern North America derives its name from the Native American word for “rough” (referring to its root structure). It is generally used for menopausal conditions, painful menstruation, uterine spasms, and vaginitis.
Echinacea	Often used to strengthen the body’s immune system.  Echinacea is also considered prevention against colds and flu.
Evening primrose	Oil from this night-blooming, bright yellow flowering plant may be helpful in reducing symptoms of arthritis and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Feverfew	The pain-relieving properties of feverfew have been used for migraine headaches, as well as for menstrual cramps.
Garlic	Garlic is generally used for cardiovascular conditions, including high cholesterol and triglyceride levels associated with the risk of atherosclerosis.
Gingko biloba	This herb is used for many conditions associated with aging, including poor circulation and memory loss.
Ginseng	Used as a general tonic to increase overall body tone, ginseng is considered helpful in elevating energy levels and improving the body’s response to stress.
Goldenseal	This herb, native to America, is popular for its healing properties and antiseptic, or germ-stopping, qualities. Often used for colds and flu, it is also popular for soothing the nose lining when it is inflamed or sore.
Green tea	This herb is used to combat fatigue, prevent arteriosclerosis and certain cancers, lower cholesterol, and aid in weight loss.
Hawthorn	Hawthorn is popularly used for several heart-related conditions and is supportive in the treatment of angina, atherosclerosis, heart failure, and high blood pressure.
Saw palmetto	Saw palmetto may be used for enlarged prostate, a common condition in men over age 50.
St. John’s wort	This herb has been used for centuries in the treatment of mental disorders. Today, it is a popular recommendation for mild to moderate depression.

Conclusion:

It is important to remember that herbal supplements are not subject to regulation by the FDA and, therefore, have not been tested in an FDA-approved clinical trial to prove their effectiveness in the treatment or management of medical conditions. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and discuss herbal supplements before use.