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10 Natural Remedies of Treating Anxiety

10. Try meditation Meditation has been proven time and again to be a very good stress reliever. This century-old Buddhist practice is very effective in the… Denis Courtney - September 23, 2016

Most of us have suffered from anxiety at least once in our lives. This could have been caused by one factor or another and you being the victim was not aware that this is something serious which could even require medical attention. Adults are usually victims but studies have also shown that even babies suffer from it and that’s why you may find them sometimes crying non-stop and with no reason.

This however is no cause for alarm as anxiety is a common emotion which most people encounter every now and then as it’s one of the facets of life. This is because life is all about making decisions and before doing so, you must clearly analyze the various choices at your disposal. This will definitely leave anybody anxious as there is the pressure of always striving to make the right choice. On the extreme side, anxiety can leave one overwhelmingly distressed and with constant fear of the unknown and this can lead to depression.

Despite the fact that anxiety is a feeling that is natural, extreme anxiety can be dangerous. Controllable anxiety is healthy. This activates some enzymes in the body that help in the proper functioning of the body on day-to-day activities. Remember that life with less or no anxiety can also be very boring too.

There are prescribed medicine which people have been taking over time to relieve themselves of anxiety. However, studies have shown that drugs can have adverse effects on a patient after they have worn off leaving them feeling disoriented and paranoid. Because of this, researchers have come up with harmless natural remedies guaranteed to help you get rid of or minimize your levels of anxiety. These remedies include:

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1. Exercise

Exercise is not only good for keeping fit but is also great for reducing and dealing with bouts of anxiety. Exercise has also been found to be safe, cheaper and good for your brain as it serves as an antidote for depression and anxiety. This is because it has immediate and long-term effects. This in part is because daily exercise will often leave you feeling healthier and with more self-esteem which is a major culprit for causing anxiety. Just know that the more you exercise, the more you will get rid of toxic materials from your body and your mind as it will leave you refreshed and with a calm outlook on life.

Exercise is good in that it will pump your system with endorphins which are feel-good hormones. As a result, therapists have come up with a 21-minute cure where they believe that, that’s the best amount of time to adequately exercise and reliably reduce anxiety. Therapists have over time, therefore, advised their patients to at least engage in some form of regular physical exercise if they feel distressed. As a result, patients will find that engaging in physical activity will take their minds away from their worry and in the end find themselves feeling notably calmer.

Exercise has also been found to reduce stress as it keeps one fit and healthier as illnesses often leave one feeling anxious. You should therefore hop on and start hitting the treadmill or start going back on any physical exercise of your choice that you enjoy the most even though it involves small walks in the evenings.

Exercise can be varying depending on the nearest facilities. In case there is no gym around, take some time in the morning or evening and make some short runs. This will save you a lot in the long run.

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2. Passion flower

This plant though not meant for seduction has been found to be a great remedy for treating anxiety. This herb after extensive research has been found to be great in treating nervous restlessness. This herb has been found to successfully aid in reducing symptoms of anxiety as a prescribed drug and has often been used for treating cases of insomnia which is also one of the symptoms of anxiety. Other uses of the passion flower include treatment of hysteria and even seizures.

Studies have shown that the effectiveness of this herb is due to its ability to increase levels of a chemical known as the gamma-aminobutyric in the brain. This chemical is essential in that it has the ability to reduce the activity of some brain cells in the brain which will in turn leave you more relaxed and calm.

Just like other sedatives, the passion flower can cause drowsiness and should therefore not be taken together with similar herbs such as lemon balm, valerian and hops among other sedatives. The best thing about this herb is that it is a milder sedative, unlike its counterparts. This is not to say it works less effectively than other sedatives.

This is because findings conducted on people suffering from generalized anxiety disorder indicated that it works just like other remedies intended for relieving anxiety such as oxazepam which is normally used for treating the symptoms. Other studies found that patients who had been given passion flower before their surgery were less anxious unlike those who had taken placebo but recovered from anesthesia quickly.

Passion flower can therefore be found in form of teas, infusions, liquid extracts and tinctures. As a precaution, passion flower should not be taken for more than one month at a time.

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3. Lavender

The sweet-smelling scent of lavender has also been found to be good for treating cases of anxiety. Apart from its use for treating anxiety, lavender has been cultivated over time for its flowers which are widely used in beauty products and medicines as it has a high concentration of volatile oils which has distinctive and pleasing fragrance. This is because the strong-smelling aroma that comes with lavender is thought to be a very good emotional anti-inflammatory reliever. Studies have also shown that a room laced with aroma oil is great for anxiety victims and that is why it is widely used in aromatherapy sessions.

One study, in particular, found that students who inhaled the lavender aroma before going for an exam were less anxious, unlike their counterparts. Another study showed that the lavender pill is also great for people suffering from generalized anxiety disorder as it was found to have the same effect as Ativan which is an anti-anxiety drug.

In addition, other studies also found that a lavender massage is a very good stress reliever as it has the ability to lower systolic pressure which normally comes with stress. You can also utilize the use of lavender essence by applying a few drops in your bath, pillow or a cup of hot water and inhaling it to help calm you down. The lavender essential oils can also be dabbed directly on the skin to help calm you. The good thing about lavender is that it contains no sedative effects unlike other natural remedies and has no potential for drug abuse or dependence.

Apart from treating patients and alleviating their anxiety disorders, lavender is also good in treating painful inflammatory conditions such as migraines and joint pain. In addition, it is also good for treating depression symptoms as well as conditions related to dementia.

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4. Manage your diet

Your diet is another factor that can cause you major anxiety disorders. Because of this, experts are always warning us to always watch what we eat because as the saying goes, you are what you eat. This is because caffeine, alcohol and added sugars have been shown to increase one’s anxiety levels.

Caffeine for example will boost your energy but will leave you feeling restless, jittery and anxious. This does not mean that you should totally abandon caffeine but you should instead try and cut down its consumption or opt for a healthy drink with less caffeine like green tea which is also very good in preventing inflammation. This also means that you should try to cut down on drinks which are heavy on caffeine such as soda, chocolate, tea and over-the-counter medicines like Midol.

Another option is to go for food rich in magnesium, zinc and vitamin B12. You should also try to as much as possible keep away from difficult-to-digest food such as processed meals which are usually low in fiber as well as food rich in saturated fats and fried foods. This is because an unhappy gut will lead to an unhappy mind.

Another point to keep in mind is to always ensure that your food supply is always being replenished. This is because when you are hungry, you tend to be irritable and anxious due to low sugar levels in your system. It is therefore advised to always keep a light snack close by so that you can easily munch on when hungry. Just ensure that the snack you are taking contains healthy nutrients and try as much as possible to keep away from junk food as they won’t do you any good in the long run as you may attract cases of obesity.

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5. Chamomile tea

Chamomile tea is one of the best remedies to take when feeling agitated. This is because it contains the apigenin and luteolin chemicals which are essential for relieving you of anxiety and promoting relaxation. One study conducted on the effectiveness of chamomile tea on anxiety found that patients with generalized anxiety disorder who took the tea for 8 consecutive weeks had a significant reduction of anxiety unlike those who opted for other treatment measures such as placebo.

Other findings have also shown that chamomile is not only good for helping in relaxing you and significantly reducing cases of anxiety but can also help in the fight against depression. In addition to its effectiveness in the treatment of anxiety and depression, no known side effects have been noted with the use of this herb and are not addictive unlike other antidepressants and even keeps on working better with its continued use.

It was also found that some compounds in chamomile bind to some brain receptors just like other anxiety treatments such as valium. Other benefits that come with the consumption of chamomile tea is that it can be used as a natural remedy for treating digestive disorders, colds, muscle spasms, skin rashes, inflamed gums and other infections. Another advantage that comes with its use is that it is very rich in flavonoids and also acts as a very powerful antioxidant which helps prevent inflammation of the joints and body muscles.

The best way to take chamomile tea is by simply pouring a cup of boiling water over 2 to 3 teaspoons of dried organic chamomile leaves. You should then let it seep for about 15 minutes then drink it in between meals. You should therefore take the tea at least four times a day for maximum effect. You can alternatively add about 10 drops of chamomile extracts in your bathing water then soak away your worries in it.

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6. Lemon balm

Lemon balm also known as the honey bee in Greek has been used over time to help treat cases of anxiety and stress as well as help in reducing cases of insomnia. In addition, studies have also shown that it can successfully be used to improve one’s learning capacity as well as improve sensory perceptions.

Another advantage that comes with the use of lemon balm is that it can be used as an adaptogen meaning that it can help the body cope well with external stressors coming from the environment. Many ingredients in this herb are also thought to help in killing bacteria as well as certain viruses. In addition, lemon balm is also said to help individuals improve their attention accuracy scores as well as aid them with better working memories as well as secondary memories leading to improved performance. Other findings showed that lemon balm is rich in tannins which are very good sources of anti-oxidants which help in the reduction of inflammations, therefore, enhancing and strengthening your immune system.

Other findings also indicate that this herb is good for relieving chronic fatigue as well as digestive problems. These problems include bloating, gas, vomiting which usually accompanies anxiety attacks, heartburn as well as poor appetites.

In one study, findings showed that subjects who took the standardized lemon balm were more calm and alert after its intake unlike those who opted for other remedies such as placebo. This does not however mean that you should take them frequently and in large quantities as this is said to make one more anxious. You should therefore consult an expert who can effectively advise you on the right dosage but you should start with a small quantity. The lemon balm is normally sold as tea, capsules and tincture. It can also be taken with other remedies such as hops, chamomile and valerian for maximum effects.

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7. Try omega-3

Findings have also shown that the fatty acids in omega 3 are very good for easing anxiety and in turn lifting your mood. This is because it has the ability to lower the stress chemicals in the body by fighting off adrenaline and cortisol. The fatty acid present is also essential in that it promotes cardiovascular health. Omega 3 fatty acids, in this case, is good for you in that it will help in lowering the bad cholesterol and raising the good ones which are beneficial to your body.

Amazing sources of omega-3 include canned fish such as tuna and salmon, walnuts, and flax seeds. The fatty acids found in omega 3 can only be found in these foods. This is because the body has no ability to synthesize it on its own. The good thing about omega 3 is that it decreases inflammation and is an important component of the body’s cell membranes as well as the nerve synapses.

According to one study, students who took fish oil supplements were calmer and less anxious. All this was determined by their eating and sleeping habits, cortisol levels as well as mental states.

Apart from being good for relieving stress, fish oil is also good for the heart and can even protect one against depression. Omega 3 is therefore an essential requirement just like breathing because we simply cannot do without them. This is due to the fact that omega-3 supplements are as efficient as conventional anti-depressant medications necessary for treating mental illness. Omega 3 has also been found to aid in preventing mood disorders. This is because it helps in the functioning of the brain regions which are essentially involved in motivation and emotional regulation.

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8. Stop over thinking

The mother of all anxieties as has been stated earlier is overthinking things that don’t even exist. Most people who suffer from anxiety have been found to have catastrophic thinking. As a result, one finds themselves thinking about horrible and often unimaginable things happening to them. As a result, they find themselves going crazy over things that don’t even exist!

When anxious, you will often find yourself obsessing over what you said or what you should have said or creating very fearful what-if scenarios that could possibly go wrong. As a result, you will always find that you are constantly tired and tightly wound with worry. You will therefore find that you are always physically and emotionally sick due to the anxious messages going around in your mind. Another bad thing that comes with overthinking is that we might in the long run believe what we are constantly thinking and worrying about.

It is therefore time that you took reign of those negative thoughts as you have the power and ability to interfere with those negative thoughts and beliefs. This might sound simple but as they say, a journey of a thousand miles starts with baby steps.

As a remedy, you can stop and take a few breaths then go even for a walk to help clear your mind. As you take the walk, try to self-analyze and go through the situation going round in your mind and the chance of it happening. You will be shocked to find that you were just overreacting and chances of the catastrophe happening are next to zero. This walk is therefore the best thing for you if you think that you are about start panicking over something non-existent. You can alternatively your thoughts and attention to something more productive and neutral instead of obsessing over negative thoughts.

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9. Hops

The amazing thing about this remedy is that it is found in most beers. This might be the reason why most people go for a drink or two after a very long tiresome day to enjoy themselves. The bad news however is that it does have that tranquilizing effect you are hoping which usually accompanies the bitter herb in the brew. The sedative compound found in this herb includes the volatile oil which can be found in the extracts and tinctures as well as in the aromatherapy found in hops pillows.

The negative side of this is less. Doctors claim that allergic reactions to hops are few and unlikely to occur. However, in case you feel or see these side effects, please visit your doctor as soon as possible. Rashes, itching, swellings, difficulties in breathing and dizziness. Just to make sure that these side effects of hops are minimized, try using little amounts of hops at the start.

Is there evidence that hops work? Yes, a study done on mice found out that the hops made them calmer and sleepy more often as compared to the other mice that were used as control experience. Some scientists even insist that hops have similar chemical components that are found in cannabis which relaxes the nervous system.

Well, do you even know that hops pickers have been found to be calmer while picking the crop I the farm? I thought you should know.

However, it should be noted that breastfeeding and pregnant mothers should avoid hops as it can harm them. In this case, it should not be combined with anesthetics and other medications during and after operations as it makes people feel very tired.

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10. Try meditation

Meditation has been proven time and again to be a very good stress reliever. This century-old Buddhist practice is very effective in the treatment of anxiety and is now a mainstream therapy. This practice is the best as it will enable you to experience mindful awareness and will allow you to experience the true essence of each moment as it occurs rather than what one is expecting or fearing. You can simply begin by paying attention to the present moment intentionally and with curiosity and with an effort to attend without any judgment.

This is also the perfect time to throw in a bit of yoga to also help you relax, clear your mind and connect with your inner being. This is also because yoga has been found to have tremendous results on one’s emotional and physical well-being. This is because yoga will help in regulating your body’s stress response systems while decreasing physiological responses to stress such as short rapid breathing, a racing heart as well as high blood pressure.

In one study where subjects underwent yoga and another one that did not, notable results were found between these groups. In the first group which had undergone yoga, significant improvements in terms of their anxiety, depression levels, perceived stress and an overall improvement in their energy levels and overall well-being were noted. Back pains, insomnia and headaches were noted to have decreased among the target group unlike those who had not engaged in yoga.

For those of us who are socially awkward, this is a great chance for you to work on your social skills. Get out of your comfort zone and try to interact with other like-minded individuals and you are bound to experience less anxiety attacks. And so grab your mat and match on and join the rest of the world with this stress-relieving exercise.

As you might have noticed, life is too short for you to worry about non-existent occurrences. You should simply, get out, take a walk and enjoy what life has to offer. If you feel like your current location is constricting and is posing danger to your sanity, consider relocating or visiting your folks in the countryside where you can simply reconnect with nature.

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9 Crucial Alkaline Foods That Should Be in Your Everyday Diet

Alkaline foods are those we include in our diet in order to maintain the body’s pH level. Most people are now seeing the importance of having… Denis Courtney - July 31, 2016

Alkaline foods are those we include in our diet in order to maintain the body’s pH level. Most people are now seeing the importance of having alkaline foods in their diets for weight loss and the prevention of diseases. A balanced body pH level (around 7, which is slightly alkaline) is important as it improves the body’s general well-being. Keeping that balance highly depends on the foods you eat. A diet with about 70-80% alkaline foods, such as vegetables, most fruits and herbs, improves the body’s alkaline levels for balance and health.

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The pH level in the body fluids is determined by the mineral density contained in the food we eat. By pH, we refer to the potential of hydrogen we consume. This is the measure of acidity or alkalinity contained in all products we take in our diet. As we know acidity and alkalinity are measured based on a scale ranging from 0 to 14 and 7 happens to be the midpoint. This is why you should strive to keep the alkalinity of your body fluids at the level of 7. Too much acidity can cause acidosis due to electrolyte imbalances. It can cause other conditions such as plaque formation in blood vessels, kidney stones, a faster aging process, gradual loss of organ functions, and degeneration of tissue and bone mass. This is because too much acidity in the body system forces the body’s organs to rob minerals from bones, cells, organs and tissues hence leading to disease generation in the long run.

An adequate intake of minerals is highly recommended for body maintenance and the development of bone structures. The higher the mineral intake the more the defensive mechanism the body accumulates against diseases. Good alkaline diet aid in the production of growth hormones hence promoting the healthy production of new and strong cells thus maintaining high immunity. Mineral intake plays an important role in the development of the bone structure. An alkaline diet ensures that there is a balance in mineral ratios for building bones and maintaining lean muscles. Alkaline foods also enable the maintenance of a healthy weight, improve immune function, boost vitamin absorption and prevent magnesium deficiency. Below are some of the foods you should have in your diet to balance your body’s pH level, and their benefits to your body.

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1. Avocado

Avocados are some of the most naturally nutrient-dense foods in the world, as they contain about 20 vitamins and minerals. They are considered the best fruit source of vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant that is important for immune enhancement, and protection against diseases such as coronary heart disease, cancer and cognitive decline. Avocados also contain very healthy fats that boost your immune system and enhance your body’s absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. They contain oleic acid that lowers LDL (‘bad’) cholesterol and increases HDL (‘good’) cholesterol. Avocados contain lots of fiber (and are very low in carbs), which increases the ‘full’ feeling after a meal, and helps a person feel full longer, hence they are recommended for weight loss regimens. Lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that are important for eye health, are found in avocados.

These fruits are very nutritious and when added to other foods they increase the mineral content intake. They help in faster absorption of fat-soluble nutrients in the body. Their low-fat content and high fiber availability make them suitable to be incorporated into the diet of type 2 diabetes hence assisting in weight management. Avocados also contain potassium which is among the key minerals needed for bone formation. The more the intake the better the development of bone structures hence no deficiency from the body system. Consumption of avocados reduces the risk of suffering from chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. This is why health specialists recommend it in many diets due to their mono and polyunsaturated fat content. They are a great substitute for foods rich in saturated fat or added sugars.

You can incorporate avocados into your diet by using them in guacamoles and dips, adding them to salads, blending them into soups, or eating them as you would a normal fruit. Avocados are a great bread spread, and can also be used in sandwiches. They are a great butter substitute when baking. When choosing avocados, ripe ones should feel slightly soft.

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2. Spinach

The chlorophyll that gives spinach its green color is responsible for its alkaline properties. Having spinach in your food has a wide range of benefits. Just like the avocado, it is a naturally nutrient-dense food that is very high in vitamins and minerals, and low in calories. Spinach is a great source of vitamin K, which improves calcium absorption hence maintaining bone strength and density. Spinach has high levels of chlorophyll and carotene, which have anti-cancerous properties. It has a very high iron content (one of the highest among green leafy vegetables), that helps strengthen body cells, especially brain and respiratory system ones, and is required for the production of red blood cells.

Consumption of spinach improves blood glucose control in diabetes. This in return ensures that it lowers the risk of cancer development and blood pressure. The high alkaline content in it regulates body fluids from acidity. Spinach contains an antioxidant known as alpha-lipoic acid which lowers glucose levels and increases insulin sensitivity. This reduces oxidative stress-induced changes in patients with diabetes. Due to its high level of potassium content, its consumption is of great importance to patients with blood pressure. It negates the effects of sodium hence maintaining a favorable alkaline pH. Spinach is one of the best sources of magnesium when added in one’s diet. Magnesium is necessary for energy metabolism, maintaining muscle and nerve functioning, heart rhythm and a healthy immune system. It is leafy and comes in handy for those with digestive disorders and alcoholism who are suffering from magnesium deficiency.

Spinach can be eaten raw, lightly cooked for a short period (long periods of cooking significantly lower it is antioxidant properties) and eaten on its own, blended into a very nutritious spinach smoothie, or added to soups. You can also make a spinach dip, or add it raw to your sandwich, burger, and salad. Choose spinach that is crisp and has a dark-green color, and avoid the pale ones or those with yellow.

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3. Broccoli

This vegetable contains so many super-nutrients that support your body’s health. Broccoli has large quantities of Vitamins A and K that keep the body’s Vitamin D metabolism in balance. Broccoli has anti-inflammatory benefits, as it contains a flavonoid called kaempferol, which reduces the impact of allergens on our bodies. Folate, a vitamin found in broccoli, decreases the risk of cancers such as breast, cervical, colon and stomach cancers. A single cup of broccoli contains 92 mg of vitamin K, which improves calcium absorption, hence improving bone health. The natural fiber in broccoli aids in digestion helps prevent constipation and maintains low blood sugar. Broccoli is a powerful antioxidant, having the highest concentration of vitamin C among the cruciferous vegetables (such as cauliflower and Brussels sprouts), and has the necessary flavonoids for effective recycling of vitamin C. Vitamin C builds collagen, which in return forms body tissues and bones and helps cuts and wounds heal faster.

Broccoli has high fiber nutrients. The adequate fiber produced promotes digestive body health hence lowering body cholesterol. It also has potassium which is basically a mineral and electrolyte that boosts the functioning of nerves and heart contraction. It negates sodium content in body electrolytes maintaining the required body fluid alkalinity. Additionally, folate is another mineral found in broccoli that is essential for the production and maintenance of new cells in the body. It is best consumed raw because cooking destroys some of its nutritious antioxidants. It contains high amounts of vitamin C almost twice as much as that in oranges, more calcium than that found in whole milk and it has antiviral properties due to its selenium content.

Broccoli is best steamed so as to preserve all the nutrients. You can also add the florets to omeletes, stir-fry broccoli with other vegetables, or even eat it raw. Pureed cooked broccoli and cauliflower, combined with various seasonings, make a very delicious soup. When choosing broccoli, ensure the floret clusters are compact (not bruised) and uniformly colored.

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4. Eggplant

Eggplants are a good source of iron, calcium, potassium, and Vitamins B1, B3, and B6, which are essential in the human body. The skin of an eggplant contains essential phytonutrients, potassium, magnesium and antioxidants that improve blood circulation and nourishes the brain. Bioflavonoids relieve stress, regulate high blood pressure, and together with Vitamin K, prevent blood clots by strengthening capillaries. Eggplants are rich in fiber, which protects the digestive tract. They have low-fat content, hence ideal for those with type 2 diabetes, and anyone with weight problems. Nasunin, an antioxidant, protects the lipids found in brain cell membranes from free radical damage and also lowers cholesterol in the body. It also improves blood flow to the brain. Eggplants contain phenolic compounds which have chlorogenic acid that decreases low-density lipid levels and also serves as antimicrobial and antiviral agent.

Consumption of one cup of eggplant provides 10 percent of daily fiber needs. Increasing its intake decreases the risk of obesity, overall mortality, diabetes, and heart disease and promotes increased body energy and lowers body weight. Its dietary fiber is essential for weight management. It serves as a bulking agent and its mineral contents increase the level of satisfaction and reduce appetite making one feel fuller and hence reducing the amount of food intake. This reduces calorie intake in the body and hence contributes to healthy weight management.

You can include eggplants in your stews and vegetable and curry stir-fries. Eggplants are also used to make dips and as sandwich fillings. They can be baked, roasted or steamed. When buying eggplants, go for those that are firm and heavy, with smooth and glossy skin. Avoid those that have bruises, discoloration and scars. Either side of the eggplant (the stem and cap), should have a bright green color. Store them in a refrigerator until you are ready to consume them.

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5. Bell Pepper

Bell peppers are rich in Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps in the body’s absorption of iron and protects the body from scurvy while boosting the body’s immunity. They contain Vitamin A which improves eyesight, and Vitamin B6 and folate, which help prevent anemia by ensuring the formation of red blood cells. They contain lots of antioxidants such as flavonoids and carotenoids, which are important in cancer-fighting. Bell peppers are sources of vital minerals such as iron, copper, zinc, potassium and magnesium. Several phytochemicals and carotenoids, especially beta-carotene, contained in bell peppers have anti-inflammatory properties. Capsaicin in bell peppers reduces bad cholesterol and eases inflammation. Bell peppers also contain vitamin K1 which is important for bone formation and blood clotting.

They are low in calories and contain many antioxidants making them favorable to be incorporated into any diet. Bell peppers are mostly made up of water and carbs which means high sugar in form of fructose and glucose which play an essential role in maintaining body alkalinity. They have lutein and zeaxanthin carotenoids which improve eye health. They also happen to be rich in iron which is essential in the blood thus preventing anemia in the immune system. The vitamin C in it also increases the absorption of iron from the gut. Bell pepper consumption has no side effects however it can cause allergies for some people.

Bell peppers can be served raw in salads or cooked in stir-fries. They can be grilled and served with dips or sauces. In Italy, they are some of the popular ingredients used when making pizza and pasta. Fresh bell peppers are crisp and bright in color (whether red, yellow, orange or green) with green stems. Avoid the ones with soft spots or darkened areas. Though bell peppers can be eaten at any stage of their development, their vitamin C and carotenoid content are optimal when the bell peppers are ripe.

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6. Onions

Onions contain a flavonoid, quercetin, that reduces the symptoms of bladder infections, improves prostate health, lowers blood pressure and improves dental health by fighting the bacteria that cause dental decay. They contain high levels of antioxidants that reduce inflammation, reduce the risk of cancer and help improve heart health. Onions are a source of Vitamin C that helps fight the formation of free radicals that cause cancer. The fiber in onions helps in digestion, and oligofructose, a soluble fiber, promotes the growth of good bacteria in the intestines. Some minerals found in onions help regulate blood sugar by triggering increased production of insulin. Onions also contain vitamins A, B6, and E plus minerals such as sodium, potassium, iron and dietary fiber. They are a good source of folic acid.

Onions are best consumed raw than when cooked. This is because onions contain a variety of organic sulfur compounds that have volatile oil that has many health benefits. These minerals are destroyed by heat. They contain allyl propyl disulfide which has a similar effect to insulin thus playing a role in balancing blood sugar levels. They should be stored in a well-ventilated area to avoid damage. The manganese mineral in onions provides relief from colds and flu since it contains anti-inflammatory abilities. Onions have a significant amount of polyphenols and an antioxidant flavonoid called quercetin which has anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic functions which play a role in disease prevention. Cooking them in soup does not diminish this disease-prevention property.

Since flavonoids have a higher concentration in the outer flesh layers of onions, try to peel off as little of the edible portion as possible, when removing its outermost paper layer. Onions can be used raw in salads and sandwiches or added to dips and salsas. They can also be used in savory dishes. Fresh onions have crisp and dry outer skins.

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7. Dried Fruit

Dried fruits are several times more alkaline than fresh fruits because dehydration of fruit results in the cations (positively charged ions) present in them becoming more concentrated. They are a great source of energy and fiber, though one should be careful since they contain more calories than fresh fruit. Dried apples and apricots contain phytonutrients, powerful antioxidants that help rid the body of cancer-causing agents, and are a good source of fiber. Dry apricots and prunes have very high levels of potassium that help in maintaining the required blood pressure level. They also have high iron content, which helps prevent anemia. Raisins contain phosphorous, iron, potassium and magnesium, and they help promote blood circulation.

Dried fruit has more concentration of nutrients due to dehydration. They contain antioxidants that are twice as potent as those in fresh fruits. Dry fruit is loaded with fiber. A dried piece of fruit contains almost as much nutrient content as a fresh one. It contains 3.5 times the fiber, vitamins and minerals of fresh fruit. However, some nutrients such as vitamin C are greatly reduced when the fruit is dried. However, fiber contained in large amounts provides a source of antioxidants which include polyphenols which contribute to health in ways such as improving blood flow, better digestive health, decreasing oxidative damage and reducing the risk of diseases. Intake of dried fruit increases nutrient consumption and reduces obesity risk. Eating dried fruit means improving blood sugar control, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol and decrease in inflammation. Due to the high fiber content, dried fruit is very filling and it helps fight oxidative damage in the body.

When buying dry fruits you, however, should check out for added sweeteners such as sugar and corn syrup. Avoid fruits that have sulphite preservatives. One should be aware that dried fruit has relatively higher calories of sugar than fresh fruit. Eating too much of them, therefore, can contribute to weight gain and many other health problems.

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8. Cucumber

Cucumbers are vegetables that are made up of 96% water. They are very high in fiber, which helps in digestion. They contain lignan, which helps fight cancer and cardiovascular disease. Cucumbers are important for hydration due to their high water content. Cucumbers are ideal for people looking to lose weight, due to their high water and low-calorie content. They are an excellent source of silica, which strengthens the connective tissues in joints. Vitamin K found in cucumbers improves calcium absorption, which in turn improves bone, muscle and cartilage health. The high water content in cucumbers is useful in sweeping out waste products from the body. They ensure kidney health by lowering the levels of uric acid in the body.

The peel and seeds are the most nutrient-dense parts of the cucumber as they contain fiber and beta carotene a form of vitamin A that is good for the maintenance of the human eye. Cucumbers are a good source of minerals and they contain high levels of calcium which is essential for body development. They also have small amounts of vitamin K, vitamin C, magnesium, potassium and vitamin A. They contain an anti-inflammatory compound that helps in removing waste from the body and reduces skin irritation. The mineral properties in it also contribute to promoting anti-wrinkling and anti-aging activity. Vitamin K is important for bone formation and one cup of cucumber contains 19% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin K. Cucumber contains antioxidants like beta carotene and manganese which also have anti-inflammatory properties. They have immune benefits thus helping the body’s immunity system stay strong and fight against diseases.

Cucumbers are best consumed raw. They are a great salad and sandwich addition. You can add them to your drinking water for extra hydration, or include them in your vegetable juice. Fresh cucumbers feel firm, with a bright green and even skin color. Avoid any that have discoloration and blemishes, or those that easily bend.

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9. Almonds

Almonds, a popular tree nut, are extremely nutritious and healthy. They are an excellent source of antioxidants, which help prevent damage to cell molecules and cancer. The antioxidants are mostly found in the brown layer of the skin, hence almonds that have had their skin removed are not the best choice. They are rich in fiber, healthy fats and proteins, which makes them ideal for diabetics. Magnesium, found in high levels in almonds, is important for blood sugar and blood pressure control. Calories found in almonds help lower the levels of LDL (‘bad’) cholesterol. Monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants in almonds help improve heart health.

They are used as a health solution to relieve constipation, respiratory disorders, cough, anemia, impotency, and even diabetes. They are highly nutritious and act as a source of vitamin E, calcium, phosphorous, iron, magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, and niacin. When compared with other fruits they contain the most nutrients. Almonds are considered very helpful in the development of the human brain. They contain two vital brain nutrients that are riboflavin and L-carnitine which increases brain activity hence resulting in the creation of neural pathways. This decreases the occurrence of Alzheimer’s disease. Almonds also regulate cholesterol in the body. They play a role in healthy bone formation since they contain phosphorous, vitamins and minerals.

Almonds also prevent the onset of age-related conditions like osteoporosis. Vitamin E in its minerals is instrumental in heart health and the presence of magnesium is essential in preventing heart attacks. The almond skin contains flavonoids which combine with vitamin E to form a shield against damage to the wall of the artery. Basically, almonds are a great source of alkali materials and they are able to strengthen the immunity system. The high vitamin E mineral content enables the body to eliminate all the damaging free radicals in the immune system hence acting as prevention against chronic diseases.

Almonds help in preventing the rise of glucose and insulin levels in the body after meals. This offers protection against the rise in blood sugar levels and the development of diabetes. They can be eaten raw as a snack, or as an ingredient in products such as almond butter, milk, and flour. They can also be added as ingredients in salads, casseroles, and other dishes.

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