In further research of Dr. Fereydoon Batmanghelidj, I found an entry by Stephen Barrett, MD that basically claims that the claims by Batmanghelidj are nonsense and that there is no real research data produced by Batmanghelidj. However, Dr. Barrett also doesn't supply any research or citations that refute what Batmanghelidj claims. From personal experience and experience of friends, I do believe that water is essential to one's physical well-being and a lack of it causes a myriad of problems. Is it a cure for everything...... probably not, but proper hydration can ease many problems. I also looked at WebMD for hydration and a rather haughty article in there said, basically, that unless you have "cotton mouth" you don't need to drink water... which I think is very irresponsible advice. db
Your Body's Many Cries for Water by Dr. Batmanghelidj, MD.
According to Dr. Batmanghelidj, Histamine is a regulator of water metabolism and distribution of it in the body. Asthma and allergies indicate that the body has increased its histamine production. Water is lost by evaporation through the lungs during breathing so the histamine causes bronchial constriction to lessen water evaporation.
When dehydrated, the histamine activity for water control becomes exaggerated and the immune producing cells release exaggerated amounts of histamine from its storage for other functions.
Histamine also has responsibilities in the anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-foreign agents defense systems of the body. Histamine regulates the immune system. A long-term dehydration increases histamine production and suppresses the immune system at it’s bone marrow site.
During a water shortage in the body, salt is retained. Salt is a natural anti-histamine. Water is needed by the lungs to keep air passages moist. In dehydration, mucus secretion prevents the air passages from drying. In the first stages of asthma, mucus is secreted and too much mucus prevents the passage of air. Sodium is a natural mucus breaker and is secreted to make mucus disposable. (The phlegm is salty tasting).
Salt is needed to break up the mucus and make it watery for expulsion. The body needs both water and salt to relax the bronchial constriction and loosen up the mucus for expulsion. A pinch of salt on the tongue after drinking water, fools the brain into thinking a lot of salt is coming, the brain begins to relax the bronchioles.
While you are re-hydrating, if you are asthmatic or allergic, don’t over drink, gradually re-hydrate up to 6 - 8 glass of water per day. Also decrease orange juice consumption as it contains potassium which will increase your histamine production.
The website I took this information from (link is above), addresses more than just allergies and asthma. The website is a summary of the book named and is really very interesting. It also addresses pain, dyspepsia, rheumatoid arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, AIDS, and many other topics that were very interesting. I would recommend you read the website for more information.
Some Foods Affect Histamine Production by Arlene Miles
Foods and Herbs for Treating Seasonal Allergies by Heather Schulte
At these websites, we can learn that allergies are an auto-immune disease where the body turns against itself, producing an over abundance of histamine. With all the extra histamine, you can end up with itchy/watery/burning eyes, sneezing, increased mucus production, itchy skin, congested sinuses, wheezing and coughing.
What many people, including me, don’t realize is that histamine is present in many foods. Some foods cause the body to release histamine when eaten. These foods are listed as histamine-rich and should be avoided:
Cheese (particularly Parmesan, Bleu, or Roquefort),
Alcohol (notably beer and wine),
dried fruit,
pickled and smoked meats,
processed meats and fish,
sour cream,
buttermilk,
yogurt,
vinegar and foods containing vinegar like mayonnaise salad dressings.
Histamine-releasing foods include:
bananas,
chocolate,
milk,
eggs,
shellfish,
strawberries.
(NOTE: well, that is just dandy! So many things I like are on one or the other of these lists... I just had a serving of yogurt this morning and was planning on munching down some chocolate covered strawberries for my snack in a bit. Sigh)
Foods that will lessen your symptoms have vitamin C, a naturally-occurring anti-histamine. Foods rich in vitamin C include:
red and green bell peppers,
broccoli,
all citrus fruits and juices,
cranberries,
most lettuce,
cauliflower
sweet potatoes.
(NOTE: remember that in the Histamine information from Dr. Batmanghelidj, it says to decrease orange juice intake because the potassium will cause histamine production).
Other foods to choose would include those rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and Quercitin. Quercitin is a natural compound that helps stabilize mast cells and prevents the release of histamines and other inflammatory compounds that augment allergies.
In the Quercitin category you would want to choose:
cabbage,
cranberries,
kale,
grapes,
pears,
apples,
spinach,
garlic,
onions,
stinging nettle,
grapefruit.
Omega-3 fatty acid is found in flax seeds, cold-water fish, and walnuts.
Ms. Schulte and Ms Miles articles seem to contradict each other on the yogurt issue. Ms Miles says to avoid, Ms Schulte says that it works well for the treatment of allergies! Ms Schulte’s article says that the beneficial bacteria found in yogurt helps populate your digestive system with more good bacteria which will improve the overall function of your immune system and minimize your allergies. (NOTE: Okay, guess I’m safe now for devouring that yogurt for breakfast!)
At this website: Health.com it indicates that GERD is directly affected by over production of histamine. Another website, that I didn’t save the URL info of, makes a connection between over production of histamine and fluid in the inner ear.
Seems histamine is a very important part of how our bodies work and when it’s out of balance it really wreaks havoc with us. I hope this article and the links are helpful to you.
Showing posts with label diabetes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label diabetes. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Health and Wellness tips
The blessings of Citrus:
According to research by Texas A & M, eating ruby red grapefruit can help prevent osteoporsis. Adding the fruit to a normal diet increased bone mineral density and improved the absorption of calcium and magnesium in just 60 days.
Just two tablespoons per week of Orange marmalade can slash your risk of squamous-cell skin cancer by 50%. Marmalade, which is made from the peels and membranes of citrus fruit, is loaded with plant polyphenols, which prevent skin cells from turning cancerous. It also is loaded with natural UV light blockers, which can reduce sun-related skin damage by 46%.
One tablespoon per week of Orange rind will cut your bad cholesterol by up to 40%. The rind contains poly-mexthoxylated flavones and will not reduce your HDL (good) cholesterol and doesn't produce any side effects.
Because of its unique mix of phytonutrients, lemon juice boosts metabolism and enhances the liver's ability to break down trapped fats and pollutants by 30%, according to researchers at the Univeristy of Bridgeport in Connecticut. Just putting a lemon slice in your tea or water chan help you shed pounds, feel energized and get rid of toxins.
The researchers at Texas A & M say that tests show that Lemon zest, the outer most peel of the lemon, contains D-limonene, which has been shown to inhibit cancer cells. Their tests showed that the lemon zest can shut down the growth of breast, cervical, and ovarian cancer cells by as much as 63%, forcing them to self-destruct instead of reproduce. As little as one Tablespoon of zest a week can make a huge difference.
Hot salsa, horseradish, wasabi, chili sauce... super hot condiments unplug clogged sinuses faster than a decongestant spray. Consume 2 Teaspoons twice a day until your infection clears.
Inhaling steam from a nice hot morning shower for 15 minutes each morning can kick-start sinus healing in as little as 72 hours.
Eat some pineapple, fresh, to ease inflammation of the nasal passages, easing sinus pain and making breathing easier. The bromelain is an anti-inflammatory enzyme.
Give yourself a 5 minute foot massage 2 times a day to increase oxygen flow. The oxygen flow will help reduce inflammation and congestion.
According to an article in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, loading up on Vitamin C rich foods (Citrus, broccoli) and beta-carotene rich foods (carrots and sweet potatoes) will help prevent metabolic syndrome (a collection of risk factors for diabetes and heart disease), whereas popping Vitamin C and beta-carotene supplements will not.
To get a better night's sleep, try eating a slice of cheese, a half cup of cottage cheese, a few whole grain crackers, a handful of soy nuts or a glass of milk. These foods each contain the sleep-inducing tryptophan. Eat about 30 - 60 minutes before going to bed.
According to new research by West Virginia's Wheeling Jesuit University, milk chocolate boosts attention, memory and focus more than dark chocolate. Just a 3-oz portion boosts blood flow and oxygen to the frontal lobe of the brain - the area that regulates attention and focus - by 50%, heightening concentration in just 15 minutes.
One teaspoon of powdered nutmeg in a glass of hot milk will ease whatever anxiety is keeping you awake or waking you up at night, according to the University of Michigan. The nutmeg contains phenylpropanoids, compounds that ease anxiety.
Just 2 teaspoons of molasses (especially blackstrap molasses) provides nearly 20% of your RDA of iron, manganese and copper. These minerals boosts oxygen to cells and it also detoxifies your system, removing fats and pollutants that make you sluggish. Hmmmm, think I'll go make some cookies now!
The key compound of Licorice, glycyrrhizin, boosts immunity and shortens colds by increasing levels of a special virus-fighting chemical called interferon. Licorice has been proven to soothe colds and coughs as effectively as over-the-counter remedies. It also thins and loosens mucus in the airways and relaxes spasms in the bronchial tract so you can breate easier and stop coughing. Try a good hot cup of licorice tea.
Feeling frazzled after a long hard day at the office? Try a cup or two of Passionflower tea. The tropical treatment contains flavonoids, oils and other compounds that relax blood vessels, improving circulation and inducing calm. According to scientists, these compunds act just like Valium without any side effects. It can also help if you have insomnia.
Aloe Vera gel is great for easing the sting of a sunburn but, if you have digestive issues, the juice of the Aloe Vera plant can prevent digestive problems, including constipation. The fiber composition soothes and dtoxifies the intestines according to ethnobotanist Chris Kilham. Sip 2 - 4 oz of the pure juice per day.
Bromelain, the main enzyme in pineapple, speeds the healing of bruises, sprains and strains according to Chris Kilham. Drink the juice of the pineapple for a quicker reaction.
According to Elizabeth Somer, MA RD, the Mango is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, especially beta-carotene, that nourish and plump skin cells. Eating as little as 2 cups of sliced mango per week is proven to reduce the aging effects of sunlight.
Ginger has the ability to quash viruses and provide protection from infections, according to Chris Kilham. It also has an anti-inflammatory coupound that soothes a sore throat instantly while attacking the virus causing it.
Also according to Kilham, bananas are rich in potassium (which keeps blood pressure in check and controls headaches) and tryptophan (which your brain converts into the happiness hormone, Serotonin). Next time you're feeling so-so... have a banana.
The papaya, high in Vitamins C and A and potassium is best known for the enzyme papain, proven to reduce swelling and relieve the pain of inflammatory conditions like arthritis, tendonitis and backaches. It also helsp the body break down protein. So have a glass of papaya juice or some fresh fruit!
The little flax seed can lower bad cholesterol by 10%. Just add 1oz of flax seed daily to your diet to reduce artery clogging LDL cholesterol levels, per Steven Joyal, MD. Flax is also rich in sooluble and insoluble fiber, both of which reduce the absorption of dietary cholesterol. Consuming 3 Tablespoons of the seed per day cuts the risk of breast cancer in half according to Ann Louise Gittleman, PhD who says that Flax is the richest plant source of these powerful compounds, lignans, which help the liver break down and excrete breast irritating estrogens.
People who sprinkle flax on their high-carb snacks and meals cut their blood sugar and insulin levels as much as 28%, enough to control, or prevent, Type 2 diabetes. Flax's fiber and omega-3's slow the digestion and absorption of carbs, plus improve your body's ability to absorb and use glucose, according to Doctor Joyal.
Note: The benefits of flaxseeds are only released when the seeds are ground, but since pre-ground flax can go rancid quickly, you should buy whole seeds and store them in the fridge, using only what you need on a daily basis.
According to research by Texas A & M, eating ruby red grapefruit can help prevent osteoporsis. Adding the fruit to a normal diet increased bone mineral density and improved the absorption of calcium and magnesium in just 60 days.
Just two tablespoons per week of Orange marmalade can slash your risk of squamous-cell skin cancer by 50%. Marmalade, which is made from the peels and membranes of citrus fruit, is loaded with plant polyphenols, which prevent skin cells from turning cancerous. It also is loaded with natural UV light blockers, which can reduce sun-related skin damage by 46%.
One tablespoon per week of Orange rind will cut your bad cholesterol by up to 40%. The rind contains poly-mexthoxylated flavones and will not reduce your HDL (good) cholesterol and doesn't produce any side effects.
Because of its unique mix of phytonutrients, lemon juice boosts metabolism and enhances the liver's ability to break down trapped fats and pollutants by 30%, according to researchers at the Univeristy of Bridgeport in Connecticut. Just putting a lemon slice in your tea or water chan help you shed pounds, feel energized and get rid of toxins.
The researchers at Texas A & M say that tests show that Lemon zest, the outer most peel of the lemon, contains D-limonene, which has been shown to inhibit cancer cells. Their tests showed that the lemon zest can shut down the growth of breast, cervical, and ovarian cancer cells by as much as 63%, forcing them to self-destruct instead of reproduce. As little as one Tablespoon of zest a week can make a huge difference.
Hot salsa, horseradish, wasabi, chili sauce... super hot condiments unplug clogged sinuses faster than a decongestant spray. Consume 2 Teaspoons twice a day until your infection clears.
Inhaling steam from a nice hot morning shower for 15 minutes each morning can kick-start sinus healing in as little as 72 hours.
Eat some pineapple, fresh, to ease inflammation of the nasal passages, easing sinus pain and making breathing easier. The bromelain is an anti-inflammatory enzyme.
Give yourself a 5 minute foot massage 2 times a day to increase oxygen flow. The oxygen flow will help reduce inflammation and congestion.
According to an article in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, loading up on Vitamin C rich foods (Citrus, broccoli) and beta-carotene rich foods (carrots and sweet potatoes) will help prevent metabolic syndrome (a collection of risk factors for diabetes and heart disease), whereas popping Vitamin C and beta-carotene supplements will not.
To get a better night's sleep, try eating a slice of cheese, a half cup of cottage cheese, a few whole grain crackers, a handful of soy nuts or a glass of milk. These foods each contain the sleep-inducing tryptophan. Eat about 30 - 60 minutes before going to bed.
According to new research by West Virginia's Wheeling Jesuit University, milk chocolate boosts attention, memory and focus more than dark chocolate. Just a 3-oz portion boosts blood flow and oxygen to the frontal lobe of the brain - the area that regulates attention and focus - by 50%, heightening concentration in just 15 minutes.
One teaspoon of powdered nutmeg in a glass of hot milk will ease whatever anxiety is keeping you awake or waking you up at night, according to the University of Michigan. The nutmeg contains phenylpropanoids, compounds that ease anxiety.
Just 2 teaspoons of molasses (especially blackstrap molasses) provides nearly 20% of your RDA of iron, manganese and copper. These minerals boosts oxygen to cells and it also detoxifies your system, removing fats and pollutants that make you sluggish. Hmmmm, think I'll go make some cookies now!
The key compound of Licorice, glycyrrhizin, boosts immunity and shortens colds by increasing levels of a special virus-fighting chemical called interferon. Licorice has been proven to soothe colds and coughs as effectively as over-the-counter remedies. It also thins and loosens mucus in the airways and relaxes spasms in the bronchial tract so you can breate easier and stop coughing. Try a good hot cup of licorice tea.
Feeling frazzled after a long hard day at the office? Try a cup or two of Passionflower tea. The tropical treatment contains flavonoids, oils and other compounds that relax blood vessels, improving circulation and inducing calm. According to scientists, these compunds act just like Valium without any side effects. It can also help if you have insomnia.
Aloe Vera gel is great for easing the sting of a sunburn but, if you have digestive issues, the juice of the Aloe Vera plant can prevent digestive problems, including constipation. The fiber composition soothes and dtoxifies the intestines according to ethnobotanist Chris Kilham. Sip 2 - 4 oz of the pure juice per day.
Bromelain, the main enzyme in pineapple, speeds the healing of bruises, sprains and strains according to Chris Kilham. Drink the juice of the pineapple for a quicker reaction.
According to Elizabeth Somer, MA RD, the Mango is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, especially beta-carotene, that nourish and plump skin cells. Eating as little as 2 cups of sliced mango per week is proven to reduce the aging effects of sunlight.
Ginger has the ability to quash viruses and provide protection from infections, according to Chris Kilham. It also has an anti-inflammatory coupound that soothes a sore throat instantly while attacking the virus causing it.
Also according to Kilham, bananas are rich in potassium (which keeps blood pressure in check and controls headaches) and tryptophan (which your brain converts into the happiness hormone, Serotonin). Next time you're feeling so-so... have a banana.
The papaya, high in Vitamins C and A and potassium is best known for the enzyme papain, proven to reduce swelling and relieve the pain of inflammatory conditions like arthritis, tendonitis and backaches. It also helsp the body break down protein. So have a glass of papaya juice or some fresh fruit!
The little flax seed can lower bad cholesterol by 10%. Just add 1oz of flax seed daily to your diet to reduce artery clogging LDL cholesterol levels, per Steven Joyal, MD. Flax is also rich in sooluble and insoluble fiber, both of which reduce the absorption of dietary cholesterol. Consuming 3 Tablespoons of the seed per day cuts the risk of breast cancer in half according to Ann Louise Gittleman, PhD who says that Flax is the richest plant source of these powerful compounds, lignans, which help the liver break down and excrete breast irritating estrogens.
People who sprinkle flax on their high-carb snacks and meals cut their blood sugar and insulin levels as much as 28%, enough to control, or prevent, Type 2 diabetes. Flax's fiber and omega-3's slow the digestion and absorption of carbs, plus improve your body's ability to absorb and use glucose, according to Doctor Joyal.
Note: The benefits of flaxseeds are only released when the seeds are ground, but since pre-ground flax can go rancid quickly, you should buy whole seeds and store them in the fridge, using only what you need on a daily basis.
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