Home Remedies for Autoimmune Diseases

Source: http://www.top10homeremedies.com/home-remedies/home-remedies-for-autoimmune-diseases.html

Autoimmune diseases include various conditions in which your immune system attacks healthy cells because it is unable to differentiate them from harmful foreign entities like bacteria.
The exact cause of this problem is still unknown. At times, the problem is triggered when a micro-organism or drug alters the behavior of immune cells. When these cells produce more cells, they collectively attack your healthy cells, causing an autoimmune disease.

Sometimes, the disease takes root in a particular organ. For instance, your immune system may attack your thyroid, which is usually diagnosed as Grave’s disease. (or Hashimotos Thyroiditis)

If it attacks your gastrointestinal tract, you may be diagnosed with a disease such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.

Other times, the disease attacks a particular protein found throughout your body. When this happens, you may be diagnosed with a disease such as rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis. Inflammation is a huge, and often highly uncomfortable, side effect of these autoimmune diseases.

A conversation often skipped in the management of such diseases is natural home remedies.



Here are the top 10 home remedies for autoimmune diseases.
1. Turmeric

Turmeric contains a substance called curcumin that suppresses inflammation-boosting enzymes in autoimmune diseases like arthritis, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

In a 2005 study published in Digestive Diseases and Sciences, 5 patients with Crohn’s disease and 5 patients with ulcerative colitis consumed pure curcumin doses.

Colitis patients showed reduced dependence on medication. Crohn’s disease patients showed reduced intensity of the disease.
Boil 1 cup of milk and add ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder in it. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes. Drink this daily before bed.
Alternatively, take 500 mg turmeric supplements 3 times daily. However, consult your doctor first.
Additionally, add turmeric in your meals.
2. Ginger

The anti-inflammatory properties in ginger can also help in dealing with autoimmune diseases. It helps reduce inflammation which is a common problem in autoimmune diseases.
Heat 1 to 1½ cup of water and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger or ginger slices to it. Let it simmer for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain it and add lemon juice and honey for taste. Drink this tea 2 or 3 times a day.
Also, add ginger in your cooking.
3. Coconut Oil

A 2010 study published in Pharmaceutical Biology reports that virgin coconut oil is especially high in anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties.

This makes it a highly effective treatment for inflammatory autoimmune diseases like ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease and spondylitis.

A 2008 study published in the Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology notes that Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis patients report excessive fungus buildup in their digestive tracts that further causes inflammation.

Coconut oil contains lauric acid that fights this inflammatory and disease-promoting bacteria buildup in these diseases. Furthermore, coconut oil contains fatty acids that promote metabolism in patients with Hashimoto thyroid.
Consume 2 to 3 tablespoons of virgin coconut oil daily to combat inflammation.
Additionally for arthritis and spondylitis pain, topically massage the affected areas with warm coconut oil 2 or 3 times every day to increase lubrication and reduce stiffness. Apply a heating pad after the massage for further relief.
4. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera contains lupeol and salicylic acid that have an analgesic (pain-relieving) effect, as well as certain chemical compounds, such as fatty acids that have an anti-inflammatory effect in arthritis, according to a 2014 study published in the Journal of Autoimmune Diseases and Rheumatology.

Furthermore, aloe vera helps regulate metabolism. Hence, it may prove effective in Grave’s disease and Hashimoto thyroid.
Cut an aloe plant leaf in half lengthwise and scoop out the gel into a bowl.
Put a glass of water and 2 tablespoons each of the extracted aloe gel and lemon juice in a blender.
Blend the mixture on high for 1 minute.
Drink the amount of juice that your doctor recommends.


Note: Since increased consumption of aloe vera can upset the gut, it is important to consult your doctor to determine the quantity of aloe juice you can consume daily.
5. Pineapple

Pineapple contains a class of enzymes called bromelain that has terrific anti-inflammatory properties.

A 2005 study published in Clinical Immunology, two patients of ulcerative colitis whose disease had remained largely unaffected by conventional medical therapies reported remission when they consumed a daily dose of pure bromelain.

The bromelain found in pineapples also provided relief in other inflammatory autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and spinal spondylitis.
Peel and dice a fresh pineapple into small pieces, refrigerate it for 15 to 20 minutes and eat it daily.
Alternatively, put 1 fresh pineapple (peeled and diced) and 15 pieces of turmeric root (3 inches each) in a juicer. Juice it on high for 1 minute. Drink this juice 3 times daily to reduce inflammation.


Note: If you have stomach ulcers and or take blood-thinners (aspirin, warfarin and others), avoid consuming pineapple or pure bromelain extract as it could interact with these drugs.
6. Fish Oil

Fish oil contains essential fatty acids with anti-inflammatory benefits. It alleviates joint pain and stiffness and even reduces dependency on medication in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

A 2000 study published in The Journal of Rheumatology notes that daily fish-oil supplementation reduced symptoms in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Spinal spondylitis patients can also benefit from it. A 2006 study published in Surgical Neurology declared fish oil a safe anti-inflammatory treatment for neck and back pain.

The use of fish oil also has anti-inflammatory benefits in patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, although it does not maintain their remission, according to a 2014 study published in the World Journal of Clinical Cases. It may also cause gastrointestinal discomfort in Crohn’s disease patients.
Consume 1 to 2 teaspoons of fish oil every day.
Alternatively, take a 500 mg fish oil capsule daily.
For rheumatoid arthritis and spondylitis pain, you can also add 5 drops of fish oil to a warm bath and soak in it 3 times weekly.

7. Cayenne Pepper
Mix together 1 teaspoon each of cayenne pepper and organic honey. Consume 2 to 3 spoonfuls daily.
Alternatively, mix ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper in a glass of water and drink it daily.
Additionally, in case of problems like rheumatoid arthritis and spondylitis pain, mix 2 tablespoons of cayenne pepper in ½ cup of coconut oil. Apply the mixture on the affected joints 2 or 3 times daily for relief. 8. Apple Cider Vinegar
Mix 1 tablespoon of organic apple cider vinegar in a glass of hot water.
Add 1 slice of ginger root and allow it to steep for 5 minutes.
Mix in 1 teaspoon of organic honey.
Consume this twice daily. 9. Cinnamon
Mix 1 teaspoon each of cinnamon powder and a little organic honey in a glass of warm water and drink it daily.
Additionally for relief in rheumatoid arthritis and spondylitis, mix 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder in 5 teaspoons of honey. Apply it on the affected areas 2 or 3 times daily. 10. Oregano Oil
Using a dropper, mix 3 or 4 drops of oregano oil in a glass of water or juice. Drink it 3 times daily.

Additionally for rheumatoid arthritis and spondylitis, mix 1 or 2 drops of pure oregano oil in 1 teaspoon of coconut oil and apply it on your aching body parts.






Cayenne pepper contains a pain-relieving substance called capsaicin.


When you consume cayenne pepper or apply it topically, the capsaicin inhibits the activity of a chemical in your body responsible for transmitting pain signals to the brain.


For this reason, cayenne pepper is effective for rheumatoid arthritis and spinal spondylitis pain. It also improves overall blood circulation that further lubricates the stiff back and joints.


Note: Although it is anti-inflammatory, capsaicin increases intestine permeability and makes it easier for bacteria to enter the gut, making its consumption harmful for those with ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.





Apple cider vinegar is also beneficial for autoimmune diseases. It contains vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) that helps reduce swelling and inflammation. The calcium, manganese, potassium and phosphorus in it further eases joint pain.


Apple cider vinegar also accelerates metabolism, thereby proving beneficial for people with Grave’s disease.





Although it is popularly used as a remedy for diabetes and high blood pressure, cinnamon is also good in the treatment of autoimmune diseases.


A 2015 study published in Food and Function notes that Sri Lankan cinnamon is one of the most potent varieties, and regular cinnamon is an effective anti-inflammatory remedy in the treatment of chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.


Furthermore, cinnamon contains powerful antibacterial properties that suppress the activity of the excess bacteria that line the gut in ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease patients, which promotes the disease and exacerbates inflammation.





The anti-inflammatory properties of oregano oil also make it an important treatment for autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and spondylitis.


Note: Because of its highly potent nature, consult your doctor before adopting any oregano-based health regimes.





Resources:


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16240238

http://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2015/fo/c4fo00680a#!divAbstract

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20645831

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18584522

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16531187

http://europepmc.org/abstract/med/11036827

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24585498

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S152166160500152X

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20679979

Honey and Cinnamon Benefits and Natural Cures

Could the honey and cinnamon cure work for you? Cinnamon has been used by Chinese and Ayurvedic folk medicine for over 2,000 years and honey also has a rich history dating back to ancient Greek, Roman, Vedic, and Egyptian texts.
The healing properties of honey were even referenced by Aristotle (384 – 322 BC) and Aristoxenus (320 BC). Countless stories from people being cured from everything from diabetes (type 2) to acne have filled the natural health testimonials since honey and cinnamon were first discovered.
Here are some of the most historically common ways honey and cinnamon have been used to treat and heal various health conditions:

Honey and Cinnamon Cure Under Fire

Ever since Beatrice Dexter wrote an article for The Weekly World News tabloid in 1995 claiming that honey and cinnamon can cure virtually anything, this tasty combo has been under hot scrutiny by health enthusiasts and scientists alike.
At this point, conclusive evidence suggesting that a honey and cinnamon mixture will produce miraculous results is lacking in the scientific literature, which is why the medical community is quite reluctant to recommend it to their patients.
However, in my opinion, if you take the individual healing properties of each, it is not preposterous to assume that if one is good by itself, then the two combined can only be great!
I see this a lot in essential oil studies where specific blends have healing property several times more potent than the individual ingredients and I suspect the same thing is true with honey and cinnamon.

Honey and Cinnamon Health Benefits

Cinnamon (cassia) has been shown to be especially beneficial in treating digestive disorders, menstrual discomfort and joint pain because of its high content of cinnamaldehyde (the anti-inflammatory molecular compound that gives cinnamon its flavor and odor).
Honey is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, in addition to being full of nutrients such as:

• Amino acids
• Vitamin C
• Riboflavin
• Niacin
• Vitamin B6
• Folate
• Calcium
• Iron
• Magnesium
• Phosphorus
• Potassium
• Zinc

At the end of the day, recent research is just tapping into the powerful antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics of honey and cinnamon. It is most likely that these powerful healing properties have led to “miracle” healings for countless people since the beginning of time.

8 Medicinal Uses for Honey and Cinnamon

The reasons these two superfoods create such a powerful effect on the body vary, but they generally center on their ability to control inflammation, combat free radicals and boost the immune system. Some other common health benefits oftentimes experienced by people mixing honey and cinnamon together are:
1. Allergies – A perfect example of how cinnamon can help with allergies can be seen in an Egyptian study that evaluated its ability to control the powerful allergen house mites. This allergen has become a global problem and the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment states that at least 45% of young people with asthma are allergic to house dust mites!
Researchers from Egypt tested the effect that various essential oils had in killing the highly allergic house mite and found that cinnamon was the most potent agent.
Regarding honey, taking just a teaspoon of local raw honey every day can boost your immune system by helping build a tolerance to local pollen and naturally fight allergies.
The International Archives of Allergy and Immunology published an article that tested this theory and discovered that pre-seasonal use of birch pollen honey helped people with birch pollen allergies by lowering total symptoms by 60%, experiencing twice as many asymptomatic days, having 70% fewer days with severe symptoms, and by using 50% less antihistamines compared to the group that took conventional meds.
2. Diabetes – Recent studies published out of the journals Nutrition Research and Parmacognosy Research suggest that up to 1,500 mg of cinnamon supplementation benefits the lipid profile, liver enzymes, insulin resistance, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein in diabetics and people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease patients (the #1 cause of liver disease in the world).
According to a study out of Dubai, honey has been observed to cause a lower elevation of plasma glucose levels in diabetics compared to dextrose and sucrose. Some suggest that the insulin boosting power of cinnamon can counteract this glucose elevation in honey, which would make your honey/cinnamon mixture a low glycemic index food!
3. Acne & Skin Infection – Cinnamon oil mixed with honey is used all over the world to treat skin conditions such as acne and skin infections because of its antimicrobial capacity.
Researchers from Iran have even discovered that because of its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties honey is actually more potent in treating wounds and burns and result in less skin infection than conventional medicine!
4. Common Cold – In a study published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine, cinnamon essential oil was found to be highly effective in slowing the growth of a number of bacteria and fungus including E. coli, Candida, and Staph aureus (microorganisms that can cause a number of diseases including the common cold).
Essentially, when regularly combined with immune-boosting raw honey, many people never get sick at all. Or, if they do get sick with the common cold, they recover rapidly!
5. UTI – The Iran Journal of Medical Sciences published a study this past year that evaluated 28 plant extracts against Gram-negative such as E. coli (the main cause of urinary track infections).
Cinnamomum zeylanicum ranked in the top 4 most potent, which provides an explanation to why people who supplement cinnamon and antibacterial honey into their diets reportedly suffer from less UTI’s than people who don’t.
6. Digestive issues – Honey and cinnamon have become quite popular in managing digestive issues such as constipation, nausea, and ulcers. Because honey is predigested nectar, it is easy for the body to break it down, which can soothe an aggravated system.
Cinnamon, because of its antimicrobial characteristics, has helped countless people with bacterial overload in their digestive system; especially with people suffering from an E. coli infection as you just read in the study out of Iran.
7. Energy – Chinese folk medicine has used cinnamon to promote a healthy flow vital energy for centuries, and because of its insulin-boosting property, cinnamon has been known to give people energy as it stabilizes your blood sugar.
And, of course, honey is pure energy. So, when you take a teaspoon mixture of the two, you get a low-glycemic boost to help fuel your burst training or when you simply need a pick-me-up throughout the day!
8. Gingivitis – The past few years, several studies have come out claiming that Manuka honey can help cure gingivitis and periodontal disease.
Due to its superior antimicrobial properties, researchers from the School of Dentistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand discovered that chewing/sucking on a Manuka honey product not only caused a 35% decrease in plaque, it led to a 35% reduction in bleeding sites in people suffering from gingivitis!
When combined with the powerful antimicrobial cinnamon, regular use of the amazing mixture can do wonders to your smile!  Honey and cinnamon benefits are proving to be a winning combination.
To make this amazing and simple recipe just mix:

• 1 cup hot water
• 1 tbsp raw honey
• 1 tsp cinnamon

To learn more about cinnamon, read my article: 7 Essential Cinnamon Benefits.
To learn more about raw honey, read my article: Raw Honey Health Benefits.
Do you eat honey and cinnamon? What honey and cinnamon benefits have you found from this amazing superfood mixture?
References:

• NCCAM. Cinnamon. [Internet]. No copyright – public domain. Available at: http://nccam.nih.gov/health/cinnamon
• Potter M. House dust mites. [Internet]. Copyright 2010. Available at: http://www2.ca.uky.edu/entomology/entfacts/ef646.asp.
• Saad el-Z, et al. Acaricidal activities of some essential oils and their monoterpenoidal constituents against house dust mite, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Acari: Pyroglyphidae). J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2006; 7(12):957-62.
• Ooi LS, et al. Antimicrobial activities of cinnamon oil and cinnamaldehyde from the Chinese medicinal herb Cinnamomum cassia Blume. Am J Chin Med 2006; 34(3):511-22.
• Yaghoobi R, et al. Evidence for Clinical Use of Honey in Wound Healing as an Anti-bacterial, Anti-inflammatory Anti-oxidant and Anti-viral Agent: A Review. Jundishapur J Nat Pharm Prod 2013; 8(3):100-104
• Saarinen K, et al. Birch pollen honey for birch pollen allergy–a randomized controlled pilot study. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2011; 155(2):160-6.
• Askari F, et al. Cinnamon may have therapeutic benefits on lipid profile, liver enzymes, insulin resistance, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease patients. Nutr Res 2014; 34(2):143-8.
• Al-Waili NS. Natural honey lowers plasma glucose, C-reactive protein, homocysteine, and blood lipids in healthy, diabetic, and hyperlipidemic subjects: comparison with dextrose and sucrose. J Med Food 2004;7(1):100-7.
• Ranasinghe P, et al. Effects of Cinnamomum zeylanicum (Ceylon cinnamon) on blood glucose and lipids in a diabetic and healthy rat model. Pharmacognosy Res 2012; 4(2):73-9.
• English HK, et al. The effects of manuka honey on plaque and gingivitis: a pilot study. J Int Acad Periodontol 2004; 6(2):63-7.

SOURCE: http://draxe.com/honey-cinnamon-benefits/

The Amazing Benefits of Honey and Cinnamon

EVEN DOCTORS ARE AMAZED BY THIS REMEDY: IT PREVENTS HEART ATTACK, LOWERS CHOLESTEROL AND BOOSTS YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

Scientists, doctors and other medical experts claim that regular consumption of honey in combination with cinnamon is a powerful remedy which can be used against many diseases.
For more than 4000 years, honey has been used as a traditional remedy for almost every disease. The Egyptians used it to treat wounds, the Greeks for a long life, and the Indians to maintain balance in the body. Modern medicine shows us that these beliefs were true.

Remedy for Cardiovascular Disease

In the morning, instead of marmalade or jam, put a little honey and cinnamon on a slice of bread. If you regularly consume this combination, it will help you reduce the blood cholesterol levels and prevent the risk of having a heart attack.
Against Arthritis
In a cup filled with boiled water, mix two tablespoons of honey and a tablespoon cinnamon. Drink this drink in the morning and evening. With regular use, this drink will help in the treatment of chronic arthritis.

Against Infections of Gallbladder
If you have any infection of the gallbladder, you can consume the above-mentioned mixture, but this time change the amount of honey and cinnamon. In the cup of boiling water, put two teaspoons of cinnamon and a large spoonful of honey.
Against Colds
If you have problem with frequent colds, make a mixture of large tablespoon of honey and a quarter teaspoon of cinnamon. This habit will help with your cold treatment, chronic cough and sinus congestion.
Strengthens the Immune System
It is recommended that you use these ingredients on daily basis. They protect your body naturally from bacteria and viruses.
source: http://www.healthylifetricks.com/even-doctors-are-amazed-by-this-remedy-it-prevents-heart-attack-lowers-cholesterol-and-boosts-your-immune-system/

17 Reasons to Use Honey and Cinnamon

monadarling 3 years ago 35 Replies

17-reasons-to-use-honey-and-cinnamon

People of many cultures have been using honey and cinnamon to treat many different health situations for centuries. Folk wisdom still retains knowledge of the healing properties of both raw honey and cinnamon.

1. ARTHRITIS: Take daily, morning and night, one cup of hot water with two teaspoons honey and one small teaspoon cinnamon powder. If taken regularly even chronic arthritis can be cured.
2. BLADDER INFECTIONS: Take two tablespoons of cinnamon powder and one teaspoon of honey in a glass of lukewarm water and drink it. It destroys the germs in the bladder.

cinnamon

3. CHOLESTEROL: Two tablespoons of honey and three teaspoons of cinnamon powder mixed in 16 ounces of tea water reduces the level of cholesterol in the blood by 10 percent within two hours.
4. COLDS: Take one tablespoon lukewarm honey with 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder daily for three days to cure most chronic cough, cold, and clear the sinuses.

5. HEART DISEASES: Make a paste of honey and cinnamon powder, apply on wheat-bread f or daily breakfast to reduce the cholesterol in the arteries and save the patient from heart attack.
6. UPSET STOMACH: Cures stomach ache and also clears stomach ulcers from the root.
7. GAS: If Honey is taken with cinnamon powder the stomach is relieved of gas.
8. IMMUNE SYSTEM: Daily use of honey and cinnamon powder strengthens the immune system and protects the body from bacterial and viral.
9. INDIGESTION: Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of honey taken before food relieves acidity and digests the heaviest of meals.
10. INFLUENZA – FLU: honey contains a natural ingredient which kills the influenza germs and saves the patient from flu.
11. LONGEVITY: Take daily, four spoons of honey, one spoon of cinnamon powder, and three cups of water and boil to make like tea to arrests the ravages of old age.
12. PIMPLES: Apply three tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it next morning with warm water for two weeks to remove pimples from the root.
13. WEIGHT LOSS: Daily in the morning one half hour before breakfast on an empty stomach, and at night before sleeping, drink honey and cinnamon powder boiled in one cup of water to avoid fat to accumulate in the body.

honey

14. SKIN INFECTIONS: Apply honey and cinnamon powder on the affected parts cures eczema, ringworm and all types of skin infections.
15. FATIGUE: Sugar content of honey is more helpful rather than being detrimental to the strength of the body. Half tablespoon of honey taken in a glass of water and sprinkled with cinnamon powder, taken daily after brushing and in the afternoon increases the vitality of the body within a week.
16. CANCER: Advanced cancer of the stomach and bones have been cured successfully taking one tablespoon of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder for one month three times a day.

17. HEARING LOSS: Daily morning and night honey and cinnamon powder, taken in equal parts helps restore hearing.

Keep these two powerhouses on hand in your home-remedy medicine chest.

How To make cinnamon and honey recipe:

All you need is cinnamon, honey and water! You need 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon for a cup of water. It’s so simple! Bring everything to boil and simmer until it becomes smooth. Let it cool down or drink it warm. I prefer using raw honey and to grind the cinnamon stick myself to get fresh cinnamon powder. Enjoy!

How to Pack Salads So They Stay Fresh All Week For Work

 Will Schuerman · January 11, 2016

Eating salad on a daily basis can be a great way to stay healthy. Personally, if I don’t pack a salad or something healthy, I wind up going out to lunch and eat a burger or pizza. Quite the opposite of healthy.

Here’s a great way to make a bunch of salads ahead of time (e.g. Sunday night).  Since you are making them all once, it really doesn’t take much time to create five great tasting salads.

You can use either mason jars or plastic containers.  I personally like using mason jars, but you just have to make sure to keep them upright else the dressing can make the greens all soggy.

For Mason Jars:

1. Start with salad dressing. By putting the dressing at the bottom, gravity will do its just and will keep it separated from the greens.   Therefore, no soggy greens.
2. Add your veggies. After the salad dressing, throw in your vegetables.  The harder more dense vegetables (e.g. carrots) should go first, then add the softer vegetables like peppers or tomatoes. The denser vegetables will not get soggy when touching the salad dressing.
3. Add your leafy greens. This should take up at least half of the jar.  I like to use spinnach or kale.  If you aren’t using packaged lettuce, then make sure it is completely dry before adding or else it’ll go bad.
4. Put protein last.  This includes cooked meat,  grated cheese, nuts and seeds.  The weight of these should help push down the other items to fit more in.
5. Screw the cap on tightly and store in your fridge.

RELATED:   11 Simple Ways To Save Money on Food and Drinks

When you are ready to eat, just shake the jar thoroughly and you go good to go.  Tip: make sure to keep the jars upright to prevent the greens from getting into the dressing.

For Plastic Containers:

The other option is to use BPA free plastic containers. Make sure to use ones that are flat and rectangular.  They are easier to stack and spread out the greens.

Unlike mason jars where you put the salad dressing at the bottom, store the salad dressing separately in another container.

What I like to do is buy these little 1-oz. cups with lids (see picture below). They’re the perfect serving size for a salad I take to work – and conveniently will fit inside my salad container without taking up too much space.

You can usually find them at a local party store (they’re marketed as Jello-shot cups), but I prefer to buy mine on Amazon because it’s a way better deal.

Amazon

1-ounce cups with lids (125 count), $6.75

Source: http://www.simplemost.com/how-to-pack-salads-so-they-stay-fresh-all-week/?source=WTVF&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=WTVF

6 Unusual signs of Dehydration

Source: http://www.everydayhealth.com/news/unusual-signs-of-dehydration/

Your breath, skin, and muscles may be telling you that your body is running low on water.    

Corbis

Plagued by dry skin? It could be a sign that you're dehydrated.

Dehydration, which occurs when the body has insufficient water and other fluids to function properly, can lead to blood clots, seizures, and other potentially fatal complications. Studies have shown that even mild dehydration can have adverse effects on mood and energy. That’s why it’s so important to catch dehydration early on, but the signs aren’t always obvious ones like thirst and fatigue.

Here are six surprising indicators that you might be dehydrated.

1. Bad breath. Saliva has antibacterial properties in it, but dehydration can prevent your body from making enough saliva.
“If you’re not producing enough saliva in the mouth, you can get bacteria overgrowth and one of the side reactions of that is bad breath from chronic dehydration,” says John Higgins, MD, associate professor of cardiovascular medicine at the University of Texas in Houston, and chief of cardiology at Lyndon B. Johnson General Hospital.


2. Dry skin. “A lot of people think that people who get dehydrated are really sweaty; but as you go through various stages of dehydration, you become very dizzy and you don’t have enough blood volume so you get very dry skin,” Dr. Higgins says. He adds that because the skin is dry and not evaporating as well, you can also experience flushing of the skin.
Think you can’t get dehydrated in cooler seasons or climates? Think again. Higgins says symptoms may be milder or come on slower, but it’s still possible to be dehydrated or suffer from heat illness in cooler weather.

3. Muscle cramps. “The hotter you get, the more likely you are to get muscle cramps, and that’s from a pure heat effect on the muscles. As the muscles work harder and harder, they can seize up from the heat itself. Changes in the electrolytes, changes in the sodium and potassium can lead to muscle cramping as well,” according to Higgins.

4. Fever and chills. It might sound counterintuitive, but if your body is severely dehydrated you may experience symptoms like fever or even chills. Fever can be especially dangerous, so be sure to seek immediate medical help if your fever rises over 101°F.

5. Food cravings, especially for sweets. “When you’re dehydrated, it can be difficult for some nutrients and organs like the liver which use water to release some glycogens and other components of your energy stores, so you can actually get cravings for food,” Higgins says. While you can crave anything from chocolate to a salty snack, cravings for sweets are more common because your body may be experiencing difficulty with glycogen production, he says.
Craving something sweet? Reach for a snack that has high water content. Most fruits and vegetables have high water content and will help you stay hydrated, explains nutrition expert and Everyday Health columnist, Johannah Sakimura.
“In fact, some fruits and vegetables are more than 90% water — including cantaloupe, strawberries, watermelon (of course), cucumber, celery, lettuce and leafy greens, zucchini, tomatoes, and bell peppers,” Sakimura says. “Yogurt also supplies a good amount of water.”

6. Headaches. The brain sits inside a fluid sack that keeps it from bumping against the skull, explains Higgins. If that fluid sack is depleted or running low because of dehydration, the brain can push up against parts of the skull, causing headaches.

RELATED: 6 Unexpected Ways Eye Problems Can Hurt You
Some drinks that can cause dehydration include alcohol, energy drinks, and even caffeine as it has a slight diuretic effect.

How to Check If You’re Dehydrated

Not sure if that sweet craving or muscle cramp is a sign you need to hydrate? Here are two other ways to check if your body is dehydrated.

• Try this skin test. First, use two fingers to grab a roll of skin on the back of your hand (between where your watch sits and where your fingers start), advises Higgins. Pull the skin up about ½ to one centimeter high and then let the skin go. The skin should spring back to its normal position in less than a couple of seconds. Higgins says that if the skin bounces back slowly, you might be dehydrated. 
• Check your urine. If you’re well-hydrated your urine will be mostly clear with a tinge of yellow, Higgins explains. Yellow, chardonnay, and orange are the “warning” colors to watch for. When your body is about three percent dehydrated your urine will be noticeably yellow. When your body is about five percent dehydrated, your urine will appear chardonnay-colored. When your body is more than five percent dehydrated – which is considered severely dehydrated – your urine will appear orange.

Tips for Staying Hydrated 

• Keep your water bottle handy. “If it's right next to you, you'll likely get into the habit of sipping it without even realizing it,” says Sakimura.
• Spice up plain water. “If you don't love plain water, jazz it up by adding a splash of fruit juice or chunks of fresh or frozen fruit,” says Sakimura. “Or, try naturally flavored, calorie-free seltzers (my personal favorite) — their fizz and fruit flavor makes them more appealing than plain, flat water.”
• Try different teas. Sakimura recommends reaching for unsweetened flavored teas, which are available in lots of different flavors. “Sip fruity iced teas during the day (with lots of ice if it's hot out) or cozy up with a mug of hot peppermint or chamomile tea at night — they all count towards your daily fluid goal.”
• Makeover your snacks. “Swap dry, carby snacks like chips, pretzels, and crackers — which have a very low water content — with refreshing munchies like fresh or frozen fruit, yogurt, healthy smoothies, celery with peanut butter, and cut veggies with hummus,” recommends Sakimura.
• Pile on the produce. “Aim to make half your plate produce at meals. All those vegetable and fruit servings will supply water as well as a hearty dose of vitamins, minerals, and fiber,” says Sakimura.
• Sip more during meals. “Sipping water with meals will help you eat more slowly, pace your eating, and of course stay hydrated,” Sakimura adds. 
• Opt for room temperature or cooler water. When it comes to fluids, steer clear of extreme temperatures. When ice water comes into the stomach it constricts the arteries surrounding the stomach, which help the stomach function properly and help with water absorption, explains Higgins. “Ice water will just sit in your stomach until it warms up. If you hear water swishing around in your stomach, it means the water is not getting absorbed,” says Higgins. Fluids that are cooler or room temperature are better options.

When it comes to total water intake, which includes water gained from foods and other beverages like tea and milk, the Institute of Medicine recommends that most women get about 2.7 liters of water a day (or about 12 cups), and most men get about 3.7 liters a day (or about 15 cups).

Last Updated: 9/30/2014

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Dehydration signs aren't always obvious. Some surprising dehydration signs include fever, bad breath, and cravings for sweets.

• Stay hydrated by munching on water-packed snacks like strawberries, bell peppers, and cucumbers.

• When you're well-hydrated your urine will be mostly clear with a tinge of yellow. 

Source: http://www.everydayhealth.com/news/unusual-signs-of-dehydration/

Check out this great video on  Dehydration.. lots of great information

Old Time Jamaican Herbal Remedies

Source : http://www.thingsjamaicanstores.com/about-us/did-you-know/35-old-time-jamaican-herbal-remedies-from-the-days-of-our-youth

Nothing soothes better than grandma’s old time remedies – for anything from insect bites to constipation. But how well do we remember these – since we don’t use most of them anymore. Let’s take a journey back in time to the good old days when “doctor mamma” was in charge.

Cerassee (Momordica Charantia)

Summertime was not only famous for sun, sea and fun but also for “washout”, especially administered at the end of summer when you were preparing to go back to school. Remember is nuff “kabba kabba” yu eat up during those long summer months. So, of course, now it is time to purge and a famous purgative was the cerassee plant, used because of its detoxifying properties. Cerasee, or Bitters, is also known to be a general-wellbeing tonic to purge the blood of its impurities, to internally cleanse the organs, to externally clean the skin, to ease menstrual cramps, to clear up urinary tract infections, to regulate the sugar content in the blood and to remove toxins from the body thus increasing energy and stamina. According to the book “Jamaican Herbs & Medicinal Plants and their Uses” by Mike Henry and K. Sean Harris, available through Things Jamaican stores, cerassee can also be cooked like other leafy vegetables. Other Cerassee products available through Things Jamaican include Cerassee soap and Cerassee Herbal Tea Bags.

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

Some of you may remember that as a child you were given Lemongrass tea the moment you started coughing or running a temperature. That was because Lemon/Fever grass has a citrus taste and fragrance and is given to relieve fevers, congestion, colds and coughs. It is also known to soothe the stomach, stop diarrhea and vomiting and relieve gas. In aromatherapy, persons may put a few leaves in a bathtub of water for a relaxing bath. Lemongrass is also a powerful natural insect repellant, the leaves of which can be crushed and rubbed directly on the skin. Things Jamaican carries a wide assortment of products locally made from Lemongrass which include Lemongrass (LG) soap, LG Lotion, LG Body Spritz, LG Shampoo & Conditioner and LG Hand Wash and Body Wash and Lemongrass Candles. There is also Lemongrass Herbal Tea.

Ginger (Zingiber Officinale)

Child – “Grandma, mi belly hurting mi”, Grandma – “alright, let mi give yu some ginger tea”. Sounds familiar? Ginger is known for being a very good stomach ache remedy when beaten, boiled, sweetened and sipped hot. It sooths upset stomach and is great for treating nausea and gas. In Jamaica is it also common for persons to drink a hot ginger beer to “buss di gas”. According to authors Mike Henry and K. Sean Harris, “Ginger is an appetite stimulant and can be added to various dishes to make them more digestible” (p 21), hence its use in pork and curry dishes. Ginger also enhances the taste of many sweet treats carried by Things Jamaican and these include Coconut Drops, Gizzadas and Jackass Corn. Other ginger based products include Ginger soaps, Spa Jamaica’s Ginger Shower gel, Lotion, Body Scrubs and candles. Ginger Herbal Tea is also available.

Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis)

Another summertime favourite, which is still a favourite of many today, is Aloe Vera. This “wonder plant” is used for a myriad of health problems and conditions. One of the most common uses is that of a laxative, where the gel is blended with orange or other juice. Aloe Vera cleanses the stomach, intestines, colon and blood and is also great for controlling dandruff and soothes sunburn and other skin irritations. Pages 2 to 3 of the book “Jamaican Herbs & Medicinal Plants and their Uses” list other great uses of Aloe Vera. Aloe Vera is also used in the manufacture of soaps and other skin care products, due to its emollient properties. Among these are the Aloe & Noni soap, Cucumber & Aloe soap, 4oz Coffee Tanning oil and the exquisite Mystic Nature line which includes Organic Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Butter, Lotion and Night Cream, which can all be found in our Things Jamaican stores.

Castor Oil (Ricinus Communis)

Castor oil, the dreaded worm-out or wash-out, given to you right before back to school time to purge you of all the fruits and food you ate during the summer. A spoonful of this extremely unpleasant tasting oil and it was thought that all the “evils” of the stomach would be expelled. It is not however recommended to be taken internally in large quantities. In body care, it is used to relieve arthritis and other body aches and pains. A piece of cotton flannel can be saturated with castor oil and applied to the pain site, preferably with a hot water bottle. For dry scalp and dandruff problems, this oil can be heated and applied to the scalp and a plastic cap placed on the head for about 10 minutes. Things Jamaican retails Castor Oil in ½ oz, 2oz and 8oz sizes as well as the Castor Oil pack which contains a piece of cotton flannel, 8oz castor oil and hot water bottle. There is also Noni & Castor Oil soap.

Bizzy Tea (Kola Nut)

If it was ever suspected that something you ate was poisoning your body, grandma would immediately grab the Bissy/Kola Nut, grate it, boil it, sweeten it and then “drench” you with it. This “miracle medicine” is said to remove poison from the body, stop vomiting, relieve upset stomach, nausea, menstrual cramps, headaches, gout and controls diabetes. Things Jamaican retails the Caribbean Dreams Bissy Tea as well as the powdered form of Bissy.

Many, many more herbal remedies were and are still around. Many more herbs are also listed in the book “Jamaican Herbs & Medicinal Plants and their Uses” by Mike Henry and K. Sean Harris available through Things Jamaican stores.
Information taken from the following sources:

• “Jamaican Herbs & Medicinal Plants and their Uses” by Mike Henry and K. Sean Harris
• Get Jamaica
• Buzzle
• Silent doctors
• Gardens ablaze

Diagnosing and Treating Vitamin B12 Deficiency

 What is B12?

(Cyanocobalamin, Hydroxocobalamin, Methylcobalamin, Cobamamide)

Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin that is water soluble. It is also very commonly found in numerous
different kinds of foods, such as dairy products, fish, meat and shellfish. Frequently, vitamin B12
is used in conjunction with other vitamin B types in a complex formulation.

The vitamin serves to keep nerve cells healthy, as well as the red blood cells, and it is also needed
in order to make DNA, which is the genetic material that is found in every cell. Vitamin B12
is bound to food by way of the protein. During digestion, the stomach releases the B12 from protein
using its own hydrochloric acid, and upon its release, it mixes into the intrinsic factor, another
substance, prior to being absorbed into the blood.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Previous scientific research have shown that when a person has a deficiency of the vitamin B12
, it may lead to complications such as abnormal psychiatric and neurologic symptoms. Some of
these such symptoms in question may include:

• Muscle weakness
• Ataxia, which is shaky movement and an unsteady gait
• Hypotension, which is low blood pressure
• Incontinence
• Spasticity
• Mood disturbances
• Vision problems
• Psychoses and
• Dementia.

Researchers say that the previously mentioned symptoms have a tendency to occur even when
the levels of the vitamin B12 are only a little bit lower than they are supposed to be, and when
they are considerably higher than levels that are considered to be normal for those with anemia.
See More ..
http://www.naturalremedies.org/b12/

Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD on July 23, 2015     

Are you getting enough vitamin B12? Many people don’t, and that deficiency can cause some serious problems.
Vitamin B12 does a lot of things for your body. It helps make your DNA and your red blood cells, for examples.
Since your body doesn't make vitamin B12, you'll need to get it from animal-based foods or from supplements, and it needs to be consumed on a regular basis.  Exactly how much you need and where you should get it from depends on things like your age, the diet you follow, your medical conditions, and in some cases what medications you take.

Quiz: What Do You Know About Vitamin B12 Deficiency? Slideshow: A Visual Guide to Anemia

Causes of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 deficiency can happen if you have certain conditions, such as:

• Atrophic gastritis, in which your stomach lining has thinned
• Pernicious anemia, which makes it hard for your body to absorb vitamin B12
• Surgery that removed part of your stomach or small intestine, including weight loss surgery
• Conditions affecting the small intestine, such as Crohn's disease, celiac disease, bacterial growth, or a parasite
• Heavy drinking
• Immune system disorders, such as Graves' disease or lupus
• Long-term use of acid-reducing drugs. Stomach acids help break down animal proteins that have vitamin B12.

You can also get vitamin B12 deficiency if you're a vegan (meaning you don't eat any animal products, including meat, milk, cheese, and eggs) or a vegetarian who doesn't eat enough eggs or dairy products to meet your vitamin B12 needs.

Babies born to mothers who are vegetarians may also not get enough vitamin B12. Vegans can take supplements containing vitamin B12 or by eating vitamin B12-fortified grains. 

The risk of B12 deficiency also increases with age.

Video .. A must see : Diagnosing and Treating Vitamin B12 Deficiency

By Richard Zwolinski, LMHC, CASAC & C.R. Zwolinski

Could a B12 vitamin deficiency be causing your depression, anxiety or even symptoms of psychosis? This important video shows results of a B12 deficiency and how it can negatively affect your physical and emotional health. We were shocked at the serious problems it can cause.

Note: The amount of B12 present in a healthy diet combined with most multi-vitamin or B-complex supplements may meet your basic needs. But: Get medical/nutritional advice from a professional before supplementing with mega-amounts of vitamin B12.  There can be serious side-effects.
Thanks to Trudy Scott who posted this video on Facebook.

http://blogs.psychcentral.com/therapy-soup/2013/02/could-vitamin-b12-help-your-anxiety-depression/