Stress is a major role player in the acquiring of disease. It interferes with the body's natural defense or immune system to operate properly. Disease and illness have the most devastating effect on the natural rejuvenation of bodily cells. Most every disease is the result of some type of inflammatory process in the body.
Free radicals play a huge role in degrading the repair of cells. They are highly reactive molecules released from environmental pollutants and the sun's ultraviolet rays that damage our DNA. Compounds known as antioxidants counteract the effects of free radicals.
It seems our parents knew best when they told us go to bed early. Research has proven that adequate sleep at night has the most beneficial effect when the highest percentage of healing hormones are released in the blood stream.
No matter what the reasons for poor health, foods with healing properties can repair damaged cells and regenerate new ones. They have been cultivated and used throughout recorded history. The healing foods I am going to present are whole foods, herbs, and spices that should comprise the diet of most health conscientious people.
- Almonds-contain fatty acids essential for hormone production.
- Anise Seeds-facilitate hormone release, fight free radicals (antioxidant), and facilitate digestion.
- Arugula-the greens are often used in salads. They contain phytonutrients that impede abnormal cell growth, such as cancer.
- Asafetida-a dried, powdered herb from India with a strong garlic-like taste is used in Ayurvedic medicine.
- Asparagus-contains potassium, vitamins B6, folic acid, A, C, and fiber.
- Avocados-rich in fatty acids known as omega-3, potassium, vitamin B6, and folic acid. Omega-3 fatty acids are particularly healing to the eyes, brain, nerves, heart, and skin.
- Bananas-loaded with potassium and B vitamins that are very healing to the skeletal and heart muscles.
- Black Licorice-known for its seductive aroma and increases blood flow to the organs.
- Black Pepper-enhances digestion and the absorption of other nutrients.
- Cardamom-contains cineole that increases blood flow to areas it is applied. Possesses strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Carrots-high in beta-carotene and is very nourishing to the eyes, skin, and other organs.
- Chia Seeds-considered a super seed loaded with fiber and a broad range of nutrients including omega-3 fatty acids.
- Chili Peppers-contain capsicum a natural pain reliever. Consuming this food causes sweating (removal of toxins), increased heart rate, and increased blood flow.
- Chocolate-provides the compounds flavanols and methylxanthine that function as anti-inflammatory agents, antioxidants, and help to regulate the immune response. Methylxanthines illicit dopamine production that control feelings of satisfaction when we are good to ourselves.
- Cilantro-the leaf of the coriander plant contains the antioxidant quercetin and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Cinnamon-rich in minerals and a blood sugar regulator. Higher than normal blood sugar levels has been associated with impaired cellular function and tissue damage.
- Coffee-yes coffee! Contains a high concentration of antioxidants that help prevent disease. It also contains(caffeine) as small to moderate consumption stimulates the mind and body.
- Coriander Seeds-protects against colon cancer and free radical damage (antioxidant). Regulates blood sugar levels associated with pancreatic malfunction.
- Cucumbers-have a pleasant scent and increase blood flow to the bodily tissues and remove toxins.
- Curcumin-the main ingredient of turmeric which gives curry its yellow hue. It encourages antioxidation through the release of the body's own enzymes.
- Eggs-contain tissue-building protein and provide vitamin B6 that balance hormones and the body's reaction to stress.
- Fennel-the seeds contain natural hormones or phytochemicals that are very healing.
- Figs-consumed back in Biblical times when people lived to be hundreds of years old! They are rich in fiber, minerals, and low in sugar.
- Flax Seeds-another super seed high in protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Garlic-renders the component allicin that dilates blood vessels and increases circulation.
- Ginger-aids in digestion, fights cancer, and increases metabolism and energy levels.
- Honey-provides the mineral boron that promotes the metabolism of hormones.
- Kiwi-rich in vitamin C that strengthen blood vessels, encourages fast wound healing, and facilitates the functions of other nutrients.
- Mustard-stimulating to bodily glands that excrete healing hormones.
- Nutmeg-detoxifies the body and slows the effect of brain degenerating conditions, such as dementia.
- Oats-a natural grain that is very nourishing to the body.
- Oysters-high in zinc that boost hormone production, immune system, and repair of damaged tissues.
- Pineapple-used in homeopathic medicine to treat multiple ailments.
- Pine Nuts- rich in zinc to boost immune system.
- Sweet Basil-reduces inflammation, functions as an antibacterial, an antioxidant, and strengthens the immune system. Also has a very stimulating aroma.
- Strawberries-contain vitamin C and other antioxidants that improve circulation.
- Walnuts-render a blend of fatty acids for healthy eyes, skin, and heart.
- Wine-consumed in moderation relaxes the mind and relieves stress. Red wine contains the chemical resveratrol from the grape skin reported to benefit the heart and fight cancerous cells.
There are literally hundreds of more healing foods that are not mentioned here that you can research. A superb collection of naturally healing recipes that use many of the foods presented can be found on the recipe websites for Dr. Oz and Dr. Andrew Weil.
Have you ever had a disease or illness or do you know of someone that was completely healed strictly from the consumption of healthy foods without the use of traditional medicines? Did you or that person continue the same eating regimen after being cured?
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