Dr. SEA

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What you should know about Potatoes and Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease

Potatoes contain a lot of potassium, and baked potatoes have almost 3 times as much as cooked potatoes because some potassium is flushed out in the water when boiling. Potassium is one of the most important minerals for body function. A proper level of potassium in the blood is essential to keep a regular heartbeat, fluid balance, to prevent muscle loss, preserves bone mineral density, and reduces the formation of kidney stones. It also decreases the risk of stroke, lowers blood pressure and it is said that good potassium intake can reduce the overall mortality by 20%. However too much or too little potassium is a health problem.  The body gets its potassium supply through food and excretes it through the kidneys. However, in advanced chronic kidney disease, the kidney’s ability to excrete potassium and other minerals is limited, thus too much potassium can easily accumulate in the blood. Potassium is found in many fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, potatoes, avocados, and melons. Eating foods like potatoes, which are rich in potassium can, therefore, lead to an easy overdose of potassium. Too much potassium in the blood can cause abnormal heartbeats and even cardiac arrest. Patients with advanced chronic kidney disease are advised to stop taking more than one high-potassium food per day and to avoid taking potassium-rich foods for several days in a roll.

High-potassium Foods

  • Oranges and orange juice
  • Melons
  • Apricots
  • Bananas and Plantains
  • Potatoes
  • Tomatoes
  • Potatoes especially sweet potatoes
  • Cooked spinach
  • Cooked broccoli
  • Beans (white, red, koki beans..)
  • White mushrooms  (kokobiako)
  • Lettuce
  • Salmon
  • Pumpkin

Low-potassium Foods

  • Apples and apple juice
  • Cranberries and cranberry juice
  • Eggplant (jakatu)
  • Corn
  • Carrot
  • Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries
  • Plums
  • Pineapple
  • Cabbage
  • Boiled Cauliflower

 

8 Advantages of Breastfeeding over bottle feeding

The WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding (that is the baby receives breast milk without any additional food or drinks, not even water) for the first six months of the baby’s life,  because of the nutritional and health benefits of breast feeding to the infant.

The health benefits of breastfeeding are extensive, well recognized and apply to every mom and baby in both the developed and developing countries. Breastfeeding is uniquely suited to the baby’s nutritional needs. It also provides immunological and anti-inflammatory properties which protect both mother and child against a host of diseases.

It is common knowledge that our breastfeeding mothers are culturally encouraged to mix feed their babies. Some of these moms introduce water prior to 6 months and some as early as the first month. Some of the cultural factors influencing their decision to mix feed their babies include:

  • Pressure by village elders and families to mix feed because it is a traditional practice.
  • Belief that breast milk is an incomplete food that does not increase the infant’s weight.
  • The taboo of prohibiting sexual contact during breastfeeding.

Now we are aware of the barriers to exclusive breast feeding, what are the benefits of breastfeeding over bottle feeding or any other alternative form of feeding? And why should every mom adopt exclusive breastfeeding for at least up to 6 months of the baby’s life.

  1. Protects the babies from childhood illness;

    Breast milk is the ideal food for newborns and infants. It provides infants all the nutrients they need for healthy development. It is safe and contains antibodies which help protect infants from common childhood illnesses such as diarrhea and pneumonia, the two primary causes of childhood mortality worldwide. Breast milk is readily available and affordable which helps to ensure that infants get adequate nutrition. [Source]

  2. Provides better maternal health:

    Exclusive breastfeeding reduces risks of breast and ovarian cancer, type II diabetes and postpartum depression. Postpartum depression poses not only to the mother’s health but also to the health of the child, particularly when she is unable to fully care for her child. Exclusive breastfeeding is also associated as a natural method of birth control. It also helps to space children.[Source]

    Image result for african woman breastfeeding

  3. Provides long term benefits for infants;

    Beyond the immediate benefits for children, breastfeeding contributes to a life time of good health. Adolescents and adults who were breast fed as babies are less likely to be overweight or obese. They are less likely to have type-II diabetes and perform better in intelligence tests. It promotes sensory and cognitive development. [Source]

  4. Breast milk has antibodies not found in infant formula;

    The long term benefits of breast feeding for mothers and children cannot be replicated with infant formula. When infant formula is not properly prepared, there are risks arising from the use of unsafe water and unsterilized equipment or the potential presence of bacteria in powdered formula. Malnutrition can result from over diluting formula to “stretch” supplies. If formula is used but becomes unavailable, a return to breast feeding may not be an option due to diminished breast milk production. [Source]

    Image result for african woman breastfeeding

  5. Transmission of HIV through breastfeeding can be reduced with drugs:

    An HIV infected mother can pass the infection to her baby during pregnancy, delivery and through breast feeding. However, antiretroviral (ARV) drugs given together mother or HIV exposed infants reduces the risk of transmission. Together, breast feeding and ARVs have the potential to significantly improve the child’s chances of surviving and remaining HIV uninfected. [Source]

  6. Favors mother and child bonding:

    Irrespective of the health benefits provided by breastfeeding to mother and child, another important factor is the desire to experience a sense of bonding/closeness with her newborn. This influences the decision of some women to breastfeed. [Source]

    Related image

  7. Economic benefits:

    Breast feeding could permit families save money in expenditure for alternative baby food. Better infant health also saves money in hospitals bills. Employers, it provides less time off for employees to cater for sick children and favors higher productivity. Increasing breastfeeding rates can reduce the prevalence of various illnesses and health conditions, which in turn lowers health care cost. [ Source]

  8. Environmental Friendly:

    Breast milk is a natural, renewable food that acts as a complete source of babies’ nutrition. It has no packaging involved as opposed to alternative form of nutrition which requires packaging that eventually faces challenges in discarding. [Source]

Breastfeeding is a key contributor to the survival, health and well being of infants and mothers. Put simply, it provides babies with the best possible start in life. Exclusive breast feeding for a t least the first 6 months of the baby’s life could be the best welcome we could offer the baby. And remember, Breast Milk is BAE (Breast Milk Above Everything)

Do you have any contribution to support breastfeeding over bottle feeding? Do you think bottle feeding has more benefits over breastfeeding? Then join the conversation in the comment section.

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10 Health Benefits of Banana

Banana is one of the most popular fruits we have but the health benefits are not as popular. Most of us know they are  a great source of potassium but Jim Dillan shares with us some more health benefits of banana. Read on for 10 banana health benefits that will give you more energy, improved digestion and even improve the way you look and feel.

  1. Potassium

    Potassium is an essential mineral which maintains proper heart function and regulates your blood pressure. Potassium-rich foods such as bananas actually offset the effect of sodium (salt) in raising your blood pressure. This, along with a healthy diet and lifestyle, lowers your risk of heart attack and stroke. (source)Research published in the American Heart Association’s journal suggests eating bananas regularly can cut your risk of having a stroke by up to 20%. (source)

    Bananas’ potassium content also benefits your kidneys and bones. Increased potassium intake suppresses calcium excretion in the urine, preventing painful kidney stones. (source) Decreased calcium excretion means more calcium to preserve your bones. This means a banana or two a day can reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis and brittle bones. (source)

    Health Benefits of Banana,

  2. Increased Energy

    Sports drinks and energy bars are extremely popular nowadays, however you often see professional athletes eating bananas just before and even during their sports. Watching tennis for instance, it’s not uncommon to see the players snacking on a piece of banana in between games. If a banana can keep a professional tennis player going, it must rank highly as a healthy energy source. Bananas’ natural sugars balanced with soluble fiber give a slow, stable energy release when eaten half an hour before exercising.

    Some people are worried about bananas spiking blood sugar, but tests show they actually have a glycemic index of around 52, with 24 g of available carbs (lower the less ripe they are). That’s a glycemic load in the vicinity of 12 which isn’t considered that high. These figures will obviously vary depending on variety and ripeness. (source)Bananas are a good choice for weight loss too – a small banana contains about 100 calories and will satisfy your sweet cravings. If you can replace candy bars and other junk foods with bananas, it’s a helpful step towards losing weight. Not only will your body thank you for the vitamin and mineral boost but the energy release will be much more consistent.

    health benefits of banana

  3. Improved Digestion

    We don’t get nearly enough fiber in our diets. Fiber is needed to help food travel smoothly through the digestive tract. It also improves your bowel movements. Bananas are a great source of dietary fiber. A couple of bananas is a better choice than taking a laxative to treat occasional constipation.

    Turning to another important element of digestion, bananas are rich in fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS). FOS is a probiotic – i.e. it feeds the important “friendly” bacteria that live in your digestive tract. These bacteria help us absorb nutrients more efficiently. (source)

    health benefits of banana

  4. Cure for Ulcers & Heartburn

    Bananas are a known cure for heartburn. They help balance your stomach’s pH and enhance the protective mucus layer, relieving pain. The fiber content also moves food through your digestive tract faster – preventing reflux. (source)

    Eating bananas regularly may help protect against stomach ulcers. Over the long term, bananas thicken the protective mucus barrier in the stomach, preventing damage from hydrochloric acid. Bananas also contain protease inhibitors that help eliminate stomach bacteria which can cause stomach ulcers. (source)

  5. Vitamin B6

    Bananas are particularly high in vitamin B6. This vitamin is important for creating hemoglobin for healthy blood. B6 is also involved in maintaining proper blood sugar levels, synthesizing and breaking down amino acids and producing antibodies for a stronger immune response in your body.

    Just one banana has a full fifth of your recommended daily intake of vitamin B6. And they taste much better than vitamin pills too! (source)

    health benefits of banana

  6. Skin Conditions

    Even the banana’s skin has its uses. It is great for treating skin conditions like psoriasis and acne.Rub the freshly peeled inside of the banana skin gently over the affected area and leave the residue to be absorbed. The fatty acid content of the banana skin helps relieve a variety of skin conditions, as well as having a strong moisturizing effect. (source)

    Banana peel treatments are a traditional remedy to heal warts. Rub a small piece of banana peel over the wart and then tightly tape it in place. Leave it overnight and repeat this process for at least a week or until the wart disappears. (source)

  7. Other vitamins and minerals

    In addition to the high levels of potassium and vitamin B6 mentioned above, bananas also have high levels of vitamin C, magnesium and manganese.

    They are also a source of most of the other B vitamins and smaller amounts of trace minerals like iodine, iron, selenium and zinc. (source)

  8. A Cancer Fighter?

    Recent Japanese animal research linked bananas that are fully ripe (with dark spots) to production of a compound called TNF–a. This is a cytokine believed to have the potential to increase white blood cell count, thus enhancing your immunity and combating cancerous cell changes. (source)

  9. Improves Mood and Reduces Stress

    Bananas are a good source of the amino acid tryptophan which your body converts to serotonin. Among many other things, proper serotonin levels help improve your mood, reduce stress and enhance your general outlook and happiness levels. It also helps regulate your sleep patterns.

    Tryptophan is an essential amino acid because the only way your body gets it is through your diet. Bananas, while certainly not the highest source out there, are one of the easiest ways to get a little more tryptophan. Another reason why bananas make such a great snack for when you’re feeling stressed out at work. (source)

    Health benefits of banana: improved moods and reduced stress

  10. Hangover Cure

    Bananas are a great choice for mornings when you’ve overdone it a bit the night before. A couple of bananas blended with ice, berries and milk makes a really good hangover recovery drink.

    Just about all of the health benefits we’ve discussed come into play here. Of course the better solution is not to drink so much the night before. But just in case, it’s good to have some bananas around for the next morning.

 

This Post Originally appeared on Health Ambition

 

9 Benefits of Soursop

Some of the most impressive health benefits of soursop include its ability to kill off parasites, reduce inflammation, improve respiratory conditions, sedate the body and mind, heal the skin, treat certain kinds of cancer, boost the immune system, soothe the stomach, and relieve pain.

The soursop tree is an evergreen tree with the scientific name Annona muricata. The taste of the soursop fruit is a delicious combination of strawberry and pineapple, with other sweet and citrus tastes. The soft pulp and fiber of the fruit is used for beverages, desserts, smoothies, and candy, as well as a wealth of traditional medical treatments that are used in many parts of the world.

While the flavor is enough to make this a popular fruit, the rich vitamin and nutrient content within the fruit includes vitamin C, vitamin B, and a number of antioxidant compounds. The juice from soursop has been used topically, while pulverized seeds and decoctions made of leaves are also popular forms for natural remedies. You can also use the leaves and pulverized seeds to brew a powerful tea, which also has a number of impressive effects on the human body. Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the many health benefits of soursop.

 

Health Benefits of Soursop

Parasite Control: By brewing a tea from the leaves of the fruit, you can cleanse your gut and ensure that your gastrointestinal system is running smoothly.

Anti-inflammatory Properties: If you are suffering from joint pain or inflammation, particularly from conditions like gout or arthritis, then rubbing a decoction of soursop on the affected area can be a wonderful way to find some relief. The anti-inflammatory compounds found in soursop can quickly speed healing in affected areas, while also soothing pain and improving flexibility.

Respiratory Distress: If you are struggling with a cough, cold, or other form of respiratory ailment, then soursop’s anti-inflammatory properties can help to clear out your airways, relieve congestion, and soothe irritation. Acting partially as an expectorant, soursop is a reliable way to eliminate phlegm and mucus, where many pathogens can live. By reducing inflammation of the nasal cavities and respiratory tracts, it can also speed healing.

Sedation and Stress: Soursop tea has been used as a stress relieving strategy for centuries. There are certain anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of soursop that make it very effective if you are suffering from excess stress and anxiety. Stress hormones in the body can be detrimental, and can mess with your natural metabolic cycles, as well as your sleep schedule. If you’re suffering from insomnia or restless sleep, soursop tea is a wise choice.

Skin Health: You can pulverize the seeds of the soursop fruit into a powder, which can then be formulated into a skin astringent, helping you to reduce lines and wrinkles, and improve the appearance of age spots and blemishes. Topically apply this paste to the affected areas regularly and enjoy healthier skin, while also protecting yourself from bacterial and microbial infections.

Cancer Prevention: Some of the most interesting benefits of soursop relate to its antioxidant activity, which namely comes from acetogenins, as well as quinolones and alkaloids.

These have been directly linked to cancer prevention and the reduction in size of tumors.  Extensive research has been done on the unique organic compounds of soursop and it has been widely studied as an alternative cancer treatment.

These acetogenins are actually unique to the Annonanaceae plant family, which is what makes them so fascinating. They can apparently cut off blood flow to foreign or non-normal cellular growths, and have already been positively associated with treating breast, pancreatic, prostate, and lung cancers.

Immune System Booster: Protecting the immune system is one of the most important components of a healthy diet and fitness regimen.

Adding a bit of soursop fruit to your diet, either through refreshing beverages or desserts, can positively impact your overall health and keep those illnesses at bay.

Rich in vitamin C, this fruit stimulates the production of white blood cells, while the concentration of antioxidants helps to neutralize free radicals and prevent chronic disease.

Gastrointestinal Health: Being rich in vitamin C, soursop was used for many years as a natural remedy for scurvy and dysentery. The juice of the soursop fruit can also be a very effective diuretic, to cleanse the gastrointestinal tract and remove excess toxins and salts from the body.

The anti-inflammatory components, including the alkaloids and quinolones, can reduce parasites in the gut and alleviate any pain and irritation in the stomach/colon.

Analgesic Properties: In terms of pain relief, soursop has been topically applied to wounds and injuries for generations, but also works internally to relieve pain and speed healing.

The sedative and anti-inflammatory aspects of this impressive tropical fruit make it an ideal solution for all types of body pain, both inside and out.

Word of Caution: While these traditional and proven uses are powerful and effective, it is important to discuss any new additions to your health regiment with a trained medical professional. Particularly in terms of its cancer-fighting potential, it is wise to seek out multiple opinions before developing your treatment profile. And as always, everything in moderation!

Source: Organic Facts

Health Benefits of Eru

Eru is the dark green leaf of a creeping plant, which actually belongs to the family of vines and grows in shades. It is wide-spread and used in soups in Cameroon, Nigeria, Gabon, Angola, Central African Republic and Democratic Republic of Congo. Its local names are Eru or Kok in Cameroon, Okasie or Afang in Nigeria, Koko in Gabon, Central Africa Republic and Angola; and Fumbua in Democratic Republic of Congo. What could be the health benefits of Eru?

For our botany friends, it is scientifically called Gnetum africanum, which belongs to the Kingdom Plantae; Division Gnetophyta; Class Gnetopsida; Order Gnetales and Family Gnetaceae.

The health benefits of Eru stem from its high protein, water as well as fat-soluble vitamins, mineral, fibre and antioxidant content. Eru is low in energy.  Eru has hypoglycemic action for reasons mentioned below, thus its use in the traditional management of Diabetes mellitus.

What are the health benefits of Eru

  1.  Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) in Eru helps improve energy levels by facilitating carbohydrate metabolism . Vit B2 is also said to help against migraine attacks.
  2. Vitamin B3 (Niacin) in Eru increases blood flow in the body. It thus helps against stiffness and pain caused by arthritis and improves cardiovascular health. It also helps lower blood lipid levels (cholesterol and triglycerides).
  3. Vitamin E (Tocopherol) in Eru is a  powerful antioxidant which protects the red blood cell from hemolysis, boosts the immune response, reduces the risk of myocardial infarction by reducing the oxidation of low density lipoprotein.
  4. Eru has carotenoids which are well-known for their antioxidant effects in the body. Antioxidants help protect against cell damage, in so doing it protects against cancer, early aging and is good for heart health. Carotenoids have also been said to be good for male reproductive health.eru
  5. Eru has flavonoids, alkaloids and tannins with antioxidant properties that have been associated with hypoglycemic activity by inhibiting brush boarder enzymes. This could be another explanation for the usage of Eru in the traditional management of diabetes mellitus.
  6.  Eru’s high dietary fibre decreases the absorption of cholesterol from the gut in addition to delaying the digestion and conversion of starch to simple sugars; an important factor in the management of diabetes mellitus. eru2
  7.  Eru is good for bone and teeth health: Calcium, Magnesium and Phosphorous  are important minerals found in Eru which are important constituents of the bones and teeth.
  8. Calcium in Eru functions as calmodulin binding regulatory protein, and mediates the excitation and contraction of the muscle fibers.
  9. Eru is rich in Magnesium which plays a role in insulin sensitivity. Another reason why ERu is good in the management of diabetes.
  10. Eru is rich in Iron, which transports oxygen to body tissues, and is involved in cellular respiration. It also influences glucose metabolism, insulin action as well as interferes with insulin inhibition of glucose production by the liver
  11. Zinc found in Eru helps in the healing of wounds. It also plays a key role in the regulation of insulin production by pancreatic tissues and glucose utilization by muscles and fat cells. Yet another reason why Eru is used in diabetes management.
  12. Last but not least, Eru has also been found to have high levels of iodine, which is important for the good   functioning of thyroid gland. Iodine prevents against goiter.  eru3

Any Warnings?

Niacin in Eru could lead to high levels of uric acid in the body and this can cause gout attacks.Eru’s high fibre and niacin content  may cause bowels irritation. If not properly washed, Eru may contain spores of organisms like Amoeba which could lead to Diarrhea.

10 Health benefits of Pumpkin Leaves

Pumpkin,  scientifically known as Cucurbita moschata Duchesne, is found in the tropics. Its leaves are dark green vegetables, used in various soups in West Africa. It is rich in water, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, manganese,  vitamins A , K and folate.  And very low in cholesterol.

10 Health benefits of Pumpkin Leaves

  1.  Heart Health: Pumpkin leaves promote heart health  in two ways. Through its fiber content, which reduces the production of cholesterol, and through its high potassium content.
  2. Immune System: Its high iron content is needed by red blood cells which transport oxygen and aids healing processes.
  3. Soft and Subtle Skin: Pumpkin leaves are rich in Vitamin A which helps protect the skin against free radicals and toxins as well as maintain moisture.
  4. Colon Cancer: Research in the last decades have shown that foods rich in fiber help prevent against Colon Cancer. Pumpkin leaf is rich in fiber.
  5. Against High Blood Pressure: Pumpkin leaf’s high potassium content has a positive effect on blood pressure.final-front1-610x300
  6. Reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis: Pumpkin leaf is rich in Vitamin B6, which helps in curbing joint pain and muscles aches due to arthritis
  7.  Strong bones and teeth: Pumpkin leaf consists of huge amount of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D which are essential for the bones and teeth.
  8. Premenstrual Syndrome: Many women suffer from premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which is manifest in mood swings, depression and irritability.  Manganese, found in pumpkin leaf can be useful to reduce these monthly situations.Women who suffer from severe PMS symptoms are advised to consume manganese supplements as well as manganese rich foods. Pumpkin leaf is a good source for manganese.
  9.  Against Constipation: As mentioned earlier pumpkin leaf is rich in fiber which helps to adds bulk to stool, making bowel movement easier. So include pumpkin leaf in your regular diet to prevent constipation.
  10.  Keeps you looking younger for longer!:  Pumpkin leaf’s copper content is a powerful antioxidant used by the body to defend cell membranes from free radicals. Free radicals attack many organ systems causing premature aging of the skin (wrinkles, age spots), susceptibility to numerous types of cancer, macular degeneration, and kidney malfunctions. Having sufficient copper in your daily diet can keep  you younger for longer.

 

The Dangers of Slimming Teas

Most supplements and herbal ingredients featured in weight loss teas are not regulated. As a result, the majority of the health hazards these seemingly harmless teas embody are not fully disclosed to users.

aroma-906137_1920Weight loss teas  very often are a strong cocktail of herbs which are either natural stimulants to drive you up, bulk fibers which fill up your digestive system, diuretics which make you pee or laxatives which cause diarrhea. Aloe, Senna, Rhubarb Root, Cascara, Buckthorn, Ma Huang and Castor Oil are  examples found in most slimming teas. These herbs are considered to be “all-natural” ingredients. However “all natural” does not mean they are safe. Besides the way there are currently used differs from their indigenous application. There’s also limited scientific evidence to confirm that slimming teas are effective in weight loss.

Unfortunately, all of the above mentioned ingredients come with side effects that can even be worse if users drink slimming tea on an empty stomach.

Various Ways Slimming Teas “Work”

  1. As stimulants  : As the name suggests, stimulants increase alertness, attention and energy, as well as elevate blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration. They also reduce appetite. That’s why certain individuals experience a racing heartbeat or short-term feeling of increased energy after ingesting these natural stimulants. stimulants3In the case of Ma Huang, the FDA actually warns against it because Ma Huang (ephedra) has been reported to cause serious, even fatal, side effects such as heart attack, stroke, irregular heartbeats, and sudden death (1).  The use of Ma Huang may be dangerous if you have any of the conditions listed below:
    • heart disease,  angina (chest pain), irregular heartbeats, high blood pressure or blood vessel disease
    • asthma or other lung disease
    • diabetes
    • insomnia (inability to sleep)
    • eating disorders (such as anorexia or bulimia)
    • glaucoma
    • kidney disease
    • liver disease or hepatitis
    • hyperthyroidism(hyperactive thyroid gland)
    • mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, mania, bipolar disorder or psychosis
    • prostate problems
    • urinary retention
    • epilepsy (fainting fits)
  2.  As  laxatives or purgatives: A laxative (or purgative) induces bowel movements or loosens the stool.Contrary to popular belief, moving food quickly through your digestive system does not cut down on the number of calories that you absorb and process. The overuse of laxatives can lead to dehydration and life threatening electrolyte imbalance affecting the heart and consciousness (low potassium and sodium levels respectively). laxativeLaxatives (whether herbal or laboratory-made) should not be used for more than one week because prolonged use can make the muscular walls of the bowels weak and sluggish and they may no longer function properly without the tea. Your bowels literally become “addicted” to laxatives and may not function without them. That is good news for the manufacturers because you’ll keep coming back for more tea but bad news for your health and your wallet. In extreme cases complete  loss of bowel movements could result and should be treated as an emergency. Moreover chronic use of  laxatives containing senna on some occasions causes pigmentation of the intestines, pseudomelanosis coli  (2) and this has been associated to an increase in the risk of colorectal cancer (3). Laxatives irritate the walls of the bowels and cause massive death of cells and the natural barriers are destroyed, leaving you vulnerable to germs. If  inflammation becomes chronic, resorption of important vitamins and minerals like vitamin D and calcium may be impaired leading to soft bones and an increased risk for fractures. Other adverse effects include nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, fainting, rectal bleeding.
  3. As bulk fibers: Bulk fibers generate a feeling of fullness by swelling up when they come into contact with water in your stomach or bowels. They might cause cramping, bloating, gas and abdominal discomfort as your body attempts to work through the bulk. fiberAnd if you’re not drinking enough water to help move the bulk through your system, constipation may result.  This is the main problem because dieters tend to take them on empty stomachs. If the constipation isn’t resolved, it can lead to an intestinal blockage, -the most dangerous side effect associated with excessive fiber intake. When the intestines become blocked, food and wastes can no longer move through. Immediate medical attention and maybe even surgery is necessary to resolve the situation.
  4.  As Diuretics: Diuretics are substances that increase your amount of urine by forcing out electrolytes and water. They could be coined “water pills”.  water pillThrough the diuretic effect of some teas dieters tend to loose water weight but the effect doesn’t last long and it is dangerous both for the kidneys and heart. Through dehydration and loss of electrolytes, especially potassium, serious heart complications including sudden death may result.

Take home facts:

  • “All Natural” does not equal safe!
  • Strict dieters and people with eating disorders are more likely to suffer the severe health effects of herbal weight loss teas since their nutritional status is already compromised.
  • Slimming teas may cause permanent damage to the intestinal tract and in extreme cases this could lead to surgery.
  • Women’s bodies and metabolisms are even more susceptible to the effects of herbal weight loss teas.
  • Although these herbal weight loss teas do not directly interfere with women’s menstrual cycles and fertility, women are encouraged to stop using these herbal teas if they are pregnant or trying to become pregnant.
  • Slimming teas cause massive death of the cells of the bowel walls thus taking away its natural barrier and making it vulnerable to germs.
  • pseudomelanosis coli caused by some slimming teas could lead to colon cancer
  • slimming teas could lead to dehydration and loss of electrolytes/minerals like calcium, magnesium and, most importantly, potassium. Low potassium levels can cause muscle weakness, paralysis and cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heart beat). In a worst case scenario, it can lead to death.
  • the trade-off for weight loss may be osteomalacia (softening of the bones) due to poor absorption of Vitamin D and calcium by damaged intestines. This increases your risk of developing fractures
  •  according to an article in FDA Consumer Magazine, “a special committee of FDA’s Food Advisory Committee concluded in 1995 that studies show laxative-induced diarrhea does not significantly reduce absorption of calories because laxatives do not work on the small intestine, where calories are absorbed, but rather on the colon, the lower end of the bowel.”
  • most notable health risk of herbal weight loss teas is the possibility of a dangerous interaction with prescription drugs.

What can be done differently:

  • Check in with your doctor before using slimming teas
  • if you must use slimming teas, donot extend beyond a week.
  • use alternative sources of fiber like fruits, vegetables and whole grains
  • drink water when using fiber based teas
  • Regular abdominal exercises also help bowel movements because contracting your abdominal muscles massages the intestines.
  • check the content of your tea and watch out for senna, cascara sagrada, rhubarb root, buckthorn and castor oil. (Senna may be listed under its Latin name, Cassia angustifolia.) These substances should not be taken for more than one week and dosages should not exceed the manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • Do not steep the tea longer than is recommended because this can make the effect stronger.
  • seek medical attention if you experience persistent diarrhea, abdominal cramps or other bowel problems while you are using herbal laxatives.

The bottom line is that even prominent herbalists like the late Varro Tyler, author of “The Honest Herbal,” do not recommend the daily use of senna or any other herbal stimulant laxative either for weight loss or for constipation.

References:
(1) http://www.drugs.com/mtm/ma-huang.html
(2) van Gorkom BAP, Karrenbeld A, van Der Sluisa T, Koudstaal J, de Vries EGE, Kleibeuker JH. Influence of a highly purified senna extract on colonic epithelium. Digestion. 2000;61(2):113–120. [PubMed]
(3) van Gorkom BAP, Karrenbeld A, van der Sluis T, Zwart N, de Vries EGE, Kleibeuker JH. Apoptosis induction by sennoside laxatives in man: escape from a protective mechanism during chronic sennoside use? Journal of Pathology. 2001;194(4):493–499. [PubMed]

 

Health Benefits of Bitter Leaf

This dark green leafy schrub with a sweet/ bitter taste has many local names:

  •  “ewuro”  – Yoruba (Nigeria)
  • “onugbu” – Igbo (Nigeria)
  •  “shiwaka”  or  Chusar-doki – Hausa (across central and west Africa)bitter leaf 2
  • “ndole” –  Douala (Cameroon)
  • “figatil” or “necroton”  – Brazil
  • “grawa” – Amharic (Ethiopia)
  • “etidot” –  Ibibios (Nigeria)
  • “ityuna” –  Tiv  (Cameroon and Nigeria)
  • “oriwo” –  Edo (Nigeria)
  • “mululuza”  –  Luganda (Uganda)
  • “labwori”  – Acholi (North Uganda and South Sudan)
  • “olusia”  – Luo (Kenya and Tanzania)

It can be grown anywhere. There are various species grouped under the genus Vernonia. Vernonia calvoana and Vernonia amygdalina are the types most common in west and east Africa, while Vernonia condensata is common in Brazil and other parts of central and south America. Other species are found in North America and Asia.

Species Found in Africa

– Vernonia amygdalina – Vernonia bamendae – Vernonia calvoana –

– Vernonia colorata – Vernonia galamensis – Vernonia staehelinoides –

The cooked leaves are a staple vegetable in soups and stews of various cultures throughout equatorial Africa. In Brazil it is mostly used for medicinal purposes. In Ethiopia, oils extracted from its seeds are used industrially in paints, coating plasticizers etc.

The most common specie in Africa is V. amygdalina

Nutritive Value
ndole

ndole and plantains

A study(1) revealed that Vernonia amygdalina leaf has high protein (33.3%), fat (10.1%), crude fibre (29.2%), ash (11.7%), mineral (Na, K, Ca, Mg, Zn & Fe), phytate (1015.4mg/100g) and tannin (0.6%) content, while it contain low cyanide (1.1mg/kg).

They are claims that it also contains Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin B1 and Vitamin B2.

Phytochemicals extracted from V. amygdalina include saponins and alkaloids, terpenes, steroids, coumarins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, lignans, xanthones, anthraquinones, edotides and sesquiterpenes.

Bitter Leaf and Cancer

Extracts from bitter leaf have been proven to reduce blood estrogen level through suppression of aromatase activity in the body. This finding suggests bitter leaf could be helpful in the treatment of breast cancer. (2) Regular intake of bitter leaf may also lessen the risk of breast cancer, according to the February 2004 edition of Experimental Biology and Medicine. A recent study by Izevbigie et al.  reproduced similar findings (3,4, 7).

In one study two organic extracts from Bitter Leaf (Vernodalin and Vernomygdin) were shown to kill cancer cells of the nose and throat region (10)

bitter-leaf-juice

Essential Fatty Acids and Cardiovascular Disease

Bitter leaf contains linolenic acid (omega-3 fatty acid) and linoleic acid (omega-6 fatty acid), which are essential because the body is unable to make them.  According to a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, when people consumed large quantities of linolenic and linoleic acid, they were at the lowest risk for cardiovascular disease when compared to those who did not. These fatty acids have been shown to protect against coronary heart disease, sudden cardiac death and heart failure, possibly through anti-arrhythmic (conditions affecting the heart rate), anti-thrombotic (against blood clot), anti-atherosclerotic (against hardening of blood vessels) and anti-inflammatory (against injury, irritation or infection) mechanisms, as reported in the 2009 issue of “Current Pharmaceutical Design”.  Other benefits that the “Oxford Handbook of Clinical Medicine” attributes omega-3 fatty acids include control of arthritic conditions and protection against neurodegenerative diseases.

And bitter leaf produces these acids.

 

Effect on Malaria and Fever

Bitter juice has been used over centuries to treat a fevers especially related to malaria. In a preliminary clinical trial 25g fresh leaves of Bitterleaf was 67% effective in creating an adequate clinical response in African patients with mild falciparum malaria. (5) Of these 32% had complete parasite clearance. Unfortunately 71%  of the patients had recurrence of symptoms. I wouldn’t advice to rely solely on bitter leaf juice against malaria, consult with your doctor.

 

Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3138040/figure/f1-ijerph-08-02533/

Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3138040/figure/f1-ijerph-08-02533/

Antioxidant

 

Bitter leaf  (V. amygdalina) may provide anti-oxidant benefits. (6) Anti-oxidants are substances which protect against cell damage.  They thus help to reduces risk for serious diseases associated with oxidative stress like cancer, heart disease, stroke, aging, diabetes, arthritis, fibromyalgia, Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s, autoimmune diseases, cognitive decline, and eye conditions like macular degeneration.

 

Cytokines and Immune System

Cytokines  are signalling molecules that aid cells to move towards areas of injury, irritation or infection during immune response.  They are very important for the immune system. Many studies have shown that Bitter Leaf  (V. amygdalina) extracts may strengthen the immune system through many cytokines (including NFҡB, pro inflammatory molecule) regulation.

bitter leaf soup

Bitter leaf soup and garri.  Source: 9jafoodies

Diabetes mellitus

Studies conducted using laboratory animals showed that bitter leaf  decreased blood glucose by 50% compared to untreated diabetic animals. (8)

 

Against Worms and Other Parasites

 

This is one of the oldest traditional uses of bitter leaf juice , either from leaves, stem or roots. Scientific studies reveal that extracts of V. amygdalina possess in vitro anthelminthic (against worms)  and anti-parasitic (against parasites) properties. (9)

 

Lowers cholesterol

Bitter leaf extract decreased bad (LDL) cholesterol by nearly half, while simultaneously raising good (HDL) cholesterol levels in studies using animals. There are no studies, however, providing similar effects in humans. However this claim has been made by many health experts.

 

SKIN CARE

The use of bitter leaf to treat various skin diseases like eczema  and ringworm. This could be due to its anti-inflammatory effects

I think bitter leaf should be used more complementary not as a primary treatment.

 

References

(1) Nutr Health. 2006;18(2):151-60. Nutritive value and haemolytic properties (in vitro) of the leaves of Vernonia amygdalina on human erythrocyte. Oboh G1.
(2) Blanco JG, Gil RR, Bocco JL, Meragelman TL, Genti-Raimondi S, Flurry A. (2001). J Pharmacol Exp. Ther. 297
(3) Cimanga RK, Tona L, Mesia K, Musuamba CT, De Bruyne T, Apers S, Hernan N, Miert VS, Pieters L, Totte J, Vlietink AJ. In vitro antiplasmodia acivity of extravts and fractions of seven medicinal plants used in the democratic republic of Congo. J. Ethnopharmacol. 2004;93:27–32. [PubMed]
(4)Izevbigie EB, Bryant JL, Walker A. A novel natural inhibitor of extracellular signal-regulated kinases and human breast cancer cell growth. Exp. Biol. Med. 2004;229:163–169. [PubMed]
(5)Challand S, Willcox M (2009). “A clinical trial of the traditional medicine Vernonia amygdalina in the treatment of uncomplicated malaria”. J Altern Complement Med 15 (11): 1231–7. doi:10.1089/acm.2009.0098. PMID 19922255
(6)Erasto P, Grierson DS, Afolayan AJ. (2007). “Evaluation of Antioxidant activity and the fatty acid profile of the leaves of Vernonia amygdalina growing in South Africa”. Food Chemistry 104: 636–642. doi:10.1016/j.foodchem.2006.12.013.
(7)Sweeney CJ, Mehrotra S, Sadaria MR, Kumar S, Shortle NH, Roman Y, Sheridan C, Campbell RA, Murray DJ, Badve S, Nakshatri H (2005). “The sesquiterpene lactone parthenolide in combination with docetaxel reduces metastasis and improves survival in a xenograft model of breast cancer”. Mole. Cancer Ther 4 (6): 1004. doi:10.1158/1535-7163.mct-05-0030.
(8) Nwanjo HU (2005). “Efficacy of aqueous leaf extract of Vernonia amygdalina on plasma lipoprotein and oxidative status in diabetic rat models”. Nigerian J Physiological Sciences 20 (1-2): 30–42.
(9)Ademola IO, Eloff JN (February 2011). “Anthelminthic activity of acetone extract and fractions of Vernonia amygdalina against Haemonchus contortus eggs and larvae”. Trop Anim Health Prod 43 (2): 521–7. doi:10.1007/s11250-010-9727-7.
(10) Kupchan SM, Hemmnigway RJ, Karim A, Werner D. Tumor inhibitors. XLVII Vernodalin and Vernomygdin. Two new cytotoxic sesquiterpene lactones from Vernonia amygdalina Del. J. Org. Chem. 1969;34:3908–3911. [PubMed]

 

Vitamin packages you could need

What are Vitamins?

The word vitamin stems from “vital” meaning “important”. Vitamins are important substances needed by the body to function properly but which the body does not produce at all or not in the needed quantity. There are 13 Vitamins known today. The body can only produce Vitamin D and Vitamin K. All others must be provided by the food we eat or through supplements.

13 Vitamins:

Vitamin A  (also called Retinol)

Vitamin B Groupkeyvisual_multivitamin

  • Vit B1  ( also called Thiamin)
  • Vit B2 (also called Riboflavin)
  • Vit B3 (also called Niacin)
  • Vit B5 (also called Pantothenic acid)
  • Vit B6 (also called Pyridoxine)
  • Vit B7 (also called Biotin)
  • Vit B9 (also called Folate)
  • Vit B12 (also called Cobalamin)

Vitamin C  ( also called Ascorbic acid)

Vitamin D  (also called Cholecalciferol)

Vitamin K  (also called Phyllochinone)

Each vitamin has specific functions in the body and a shortage could lead to health problems. For example a shortage of niacin could lead to night blindness. A balanced diet is the best way to avoid vitamin deficiencies.

5-reasons-to-take-multivitamins-ppcorn

We grouped these vitamins and other trace elements according to their functions:

To maintain an energy-yielding metabolism:

Vitamins B1, B2, B6,B12, Iron and Magnesium

         – contained in dark leafy vegetables like spinach, pork, nuts like almonds, fortified cereals, milk products, fish, chicken, turkey, eggs,  potatoes, soya beans, avocados, bananas. See foods rich in iron.

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Photo Credit /Creatas/Getty Images

For a normal functioning  immune system:

Vitamins C, B6, B12, D, Folate and Iron

 contained icitrus-1318897-1599x1066n citrus foods like orange, tangerine, grape fruit,kale (sukuma wiki), green and red big bell peppers (papaprika-537632_1280prika), pawpaw,

pineapples, mango, fish, lettuce, peanuts, okra, beans, corn, celery, 20 minutes of sunlight per day  (for Vitamin D), milk products, beef liver. See foods rich in iron.

To maintain healthy good skin:

Vitamin A, Biotin and Zinc

        – contained in kale, melon, carrots, sweet potatoes, mango, tomatoes, egg yolk, avocado, lamb, chicken, beans

To reduce tiredness and fatigue:

Vitamins B6, B12, Niacin, Folic acid,Pantothenic acid and Iron

       – contained in spinach, pork, nuts like almonds, fortified cereals, milk products, fish, chicken, turkey, eggs,  potatoes, soya beans See foods rich in iron.

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Red meat, Processed meat and Cancer

According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, every 50 gram portion of processed meat eaten daily increases the risk of bowel cancer by 18%. The panel ranked red meat lower, evaluating it as probably carcinogenic to humans, possibly causing bowel cancer. In most African countries meat consumption is generally low and a lot of fresh meat is consumed. However with a growing middle class in developing countries more and more people consume processed meat due to a faster life style and also as a symbol of their status. At all levels great amounts of smoked and grilled meat like suya (in Nigeria and Cameroon) is consumed, which according to the national cancer institute, NCI may contain cancer causing agent (professionally referred to as carcinogenic agents).

What is red meat?

Red meat as opposed to white meat contains more heme and looks red. For example beef (cow meat), goat meat, sheep meat is red meat. White meat generally contains less fat and heme and  is found for example  in chicken and turkey.

What is processed meat?

All meat (white or red) which has been altered to improve its taste or appearance or just for convenience is processed meat. When meat is preserved by smoking, curing or salting or by the addition of preservatives, cancer-causing substances (carcinogens) can be formed.

processed-meat corned beefBiltongStokkies

Processed meat is usually found in bacon, sausage, hot dogs, some hamburgers, corned beef, biltong, kilichi

This does not mean you shouldn’t eat meat at all, because meat contains besides protein other important nutrients for the body.

To reduce your risk of bowel/intestinal cancer, don’t consume processed meat every day.

Easy ways to eat less red and processed meat

  • Keep a few days a week meat free
  • Add beans or pulses such as kidney beans, soya beans and garden eggs. Use them to replace some of the meat in dishes.
  • Eat more white meat (chicken, turkey)

 

Disclaimer

The content of www.doktorsea.com is for informational purposes only.The information in no way constitutes a substitute for professional advice or treatment by a qualified practitioner. I urge all users with health problems to always consult a doctor if necessary. If you have questions relating to your health, you are advised to consult the doctor of your choice, rather than starting or stopping treatments independently. The content of www.doktorsea.com cannot and must not be used for making your own diagnoses or for the selection and application of treatment methods. Doktorsea.com cannot be held responsible for damage or inconvenience caused by the use or misuse of our information.