If I can have one oil to keep and ONLY one oil it would be coconut oil. It's THE oil of wonder oils. From the "tree of life", coconut oil or as it is commercially prepared, virgin coconut oil, has many health benefits way beyond its nutritional value. Its universal use even earned it the moniker the "universal healer" being able to heal and /or alleviate symptoms of many diseases and conditions. Coconut oil , as it turns out, is the highest containing Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT) in any plant product. MCT's are unlike long chain triglycerides in that they are easily digested, absorbed, and easily metabolized for our body's needs.Long chain triglycerides involve more work and energy just to digest them and whatever our body doesn't use gets to be stored as FAT. Virgin coconut oil offers the following magical uses, allowing you to feel better today, tomorrow, and everyday with continual use:
1.Promote normal platelet function. Platelets aggregate or gather around new thrombi being formed and it is this thrombus formation that is solely responsible for arterial occlusion and plaque formation. It is this narrowing of our blood vessels which produce signs and symptoms of heart disease. Although the rate and amount of thrombus formation is also a function of the ratio of polyunsaturated and saturated fats we consume in our diets, it is the inherent role of the platelets which still govern.
2.Heart disease. Virgin coconut oil, being a Medium Chain Fatty Acid ( sometimes also called Medium Chain Triglyceride) is readily metabolized and absorbed in our body. Almost all is utilized as energy and unlike Long Chain Fatty Acids, whose excess are stored in our fat cells (adipose cells), Fatty Acids from virgin coconut oil are least likely to occlude our blood vessels, leading to heart disease. Other important roles afforded by this magic oil is it's anti-oxidant properties as well as it's role in maintaining normal platelet function.
3.Pregnant mothers. Pregnant mothers can avail of all the benefits given by virgin coconut oil in this long list as well as being an effective remedy for "morning sickness" all pregnant mothers experience during their first trimester of pregnancy.
4.Elderly. This oil should always be kept in the homes of our elderly. It offers so much health and therapeutic benefits that most people wonder how did they ever get by without it. As far as its benefits on digestion, on the immune system, and as an effective measure for the prevention of diseases such as heart disease and others are concerned, they can be found in this long list. The one benefit which I think is most useful for our elderly population is that virgin coconut oil can alleviate pain from arthritis. When heated and massaged over joints and limbs it provides an anti-inflammatory role against these diseases of the elderly.
5.Renal stones. Virgin coconut oil and coconut milk are effective deterrents against renal stones especially in individuals who are loosely labeled "stone-formers". A decreased incidence of Urinary Tract Infections also comes with this benefit.
6.Acne. Coconut milk when applied to the face helps clear acne as well as blackheads.
7.Tuberculosis. Virgin coconut oil is helpful for tuberculosis patients because it allows optimal absorption of the multivitamins co-prescribed with their TB drugs.
8.Typhoid. Typhoid as well as malaria have vomiting as an associated symptom with these diseases. Virgin coconut oil can alleviate vomiting in these diseases.
9.Ulcers. Virgin coconut oils are effective anti-emetics. They prevent vomiting associated with some diseases such as malaria and typhoid, as well as nauseated states. An added benefit to this is the less chance for the stomach to empty its contents and a lesser likelihood of ulcer formation.
10.Skin Moisturizer. If you read the labels found at the back of your favorite skin care products you'll find that most of them use virgin coconut oil as one of their major base oils. My preference and advise is to use the real thing instead, because there is rarely or ever a better substitute for coconut oil as a natural moisturizer for your skin. After taking a shower, apply it to your skin and you'll see that it's absorbed quite rapidly as you step out of your hot shower. Don't apply it to dry skin though unless you're into that greasy oily look.
11.Rashes and other skin conditions. Coconut oil is effective for Pregnant as well as nursing mothers who get eczema. Heat up a tablespoonful of coconut oil and apply over skin. This oil is also helpful in treating diaper rash on babies.
12.Immune Booster. Virgin coconut oil contains Lauric Acid which has been shown to give our immune system a much needed boost especially during times when it is suppressed or depressed. Our body's ability to mount an immune response can decrease significantly during some diseases as well as when taking medications. Again 3-4 tablespoonfuls daily is the ideal dosing of virgin coconut oil.
13.Detoxifier. It has been know for quite some time that virgin coconut oil is an effective laxative. Go beyond the recommended 3-4 tablespoons daily and you have the most natural detoxifying agent, cleansing out your digestive system for better absorption of food nutrients.
14.Dietary supplement. Virgin coconut oil has permissive effects in the absorption of multivitamins, especially B-complex vitamins and the fat soluble vitamins D, A, E, and K. In a sense, it enhances the absorption of these vitamins. Tuberculosis patients, patients suffering from anemia, children with Rickets and any disease which causes vitamin deficient states can greatly benefit from this oil.
15.Malnutrition. Virgin coconut oil is easily absorbed and utilized for energy. It's an effective first line health supplement for malnourished individuals.
16. Thyroid. The Medium chain triglycerides found in virgin coconut oil enhance thyroid function. Thyroid hormones have many roles in our body and some of their most relevant roles are having to do with our metabolism, our immune system, and growth.
17.Diabetes. virgin coconut oil balances our serum glucose levels and has is especially effective with pregnant mothers suffering with gestational diabetes. It also improves insulin secretion from the pancreas.
18.Alzheimer's Disease. Our neural tissues are made of complex fats some of which are prone to oxidation. It is this oxidation of these lipids which is the most common early cause of this disease. Virgin coconut oil is not easily oxidized because it's highly saturated. Reports have been conducted in the medical community where drastic improvements were observed in patients with Alzheimer's disease taking virgin coconut oil as supplement to their diet.
19.Colon Cancer. Virgin coconut oil by way of it's anti-oxidant properties is an effective prevention of Cancer.
20.Memory enhancer. Our brain has a preference for Medium Chain Fatty Acids such as those found in virgin coconut oil hence this oil helps alleviate memory loss.
21.Fertility. Coconut milk or even virgin coconut oil is a rich source of magnesium, potassium, and other "alkalizing" minerals. Alkalizing the body is conducive for conception.
22.Rheumatism. Virgin coconut oil has very good anti-inflammatory properties. Heat a tablespoonful over a candle and wait for it to cool only for a bit. Apply and massage deeply over joints. heating the oil allows for faster absorption.
So, that's our Top 22 magical uses of this oil from the Tree of Life. Everyday, as households all over America are discovering, new uses, both medicinally and therapeutically, arise. Until our next post...take care of yourselves and one another. Thanks again for your time.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Monday, October 4, 2010
Top 10 Fruits for Better SKin
Our skin is the largest organ in our body and believe it or not, it's our first barrier of defense as well as our means of touching and feeling the world we live in. Now who wouldn't want better skin right? Imagine a healthy skin devoid of any blemishes and is supple, soft, and wrinkle free. Ahh, the dream of every dermatologist indeed. In this post we will talk of FRUITS, yes fruits, which can have drastic effects on how your skin looks and how you feel. You'll Feel Better knowing you are beautifying your skin the most NATURAL way, without any side effects, or unwanted complications. When I say natural I also mean nutrition-wise and that means we will be eating our fruit, not blending it to a paste and apply it all over ourselves.
Firstly let's talk about what to avoid and what to do more of before we even consider the fruits we would love to buy every time we go to the supermarket for that "I look and feel young" skin. Here are the things to avoid:
1. Too much sunlight. UV rays damage our skin by producing toxic free radicals which must be repaired by our cells. I always advise patients and people in general that if you were to expose yourself to the sun excessively you should eat foods that have high anti-oxidant value, as well as supplement with vitamins which help repair cells from free radical damage (Vitamins E, C, and A). Also, remember that as a natural defense mechanism for our skin against harmful sun-rays it produces more of the pigment melanin. That explains why we get darker the longer we stay out in the sun.
2. Stress. Stress can have profound effects on our skin. It decreases our immune systems ability to counter infection. It also contributes to free radical production which is a big factor in that it speeds up aging ( and wrinkling of our skin). What's more is that stress affects the digestion of our food, hence limiting the amount of much needed nutrients to our skin.
3. Not enough sleep. Sleep is the way by which our bodies rest. It's also the avenue by which our body regenerates its reserves to rebuild or repair our cells and tissues. One such repair is eradication of free radicals. Deprivation or lack of sleep not only affects our mental and physiologic functions but also is a major cause of auto accidents year in and year out.
4. Bad Hygienic practices. This is obvious folks. Good hygienic practices promotes better health and better skin.
5. Exposure to caustic substances and /or chemicals. Read the labels of every chemical you come in contact with and I mean EVERY chemical. Look for the WARNING sign and read it. If in doubt, wear gloves. You'll be glad you did. It's common sense.
So, we have talked about what to avoid altogether and now let's consider what to do more of for that healthy skin:
1. Water. Let me let you in on a little secret. WATER IS THE SECRET TO ALL LIFE. Imagine where we would be without water. Water is the most natural purifier for your skin. Adequate hydration removes unwanted toxins from our body for that healthy, glowing, and radiant skin. Also, what's important to remember is that we ourselves, our bodies, is over 70% water. That is why prolonged dehydration can have deadly effects in our body. Here's another TIP on water you may already know: When you wash your face wash first with warm water, soap and work the lather around in circles to promote circulation in your skin. Also keep your hands warm by immersing them in lukewarm water often. This will help open your pores. Rinse with lukewarm water again then with cold water to close your pores. Pat with towel to dry.
2. Exercise. Exercise does wonders for your skin!! Let me repeat that. Exercise does wonders for your skin. During exercise, the increase in circulation also increases the rate by which we remove unwanted wastes and toxins from our bodies as well as speeding up cell rejuvination and renewal. Remember that as we sweat we also sweat off some of these toxins. Exercise is also a means to fight stress and we already talked about what stress can do to your radiant skin.
3. Massage. Massage like exercise improves circulation and muscle tone. By massaging our skin we help circulation flow optimally. Massaging also relieves stress.
So we have talked about what to avoid and what to do more of and we have talked about a handful, actually. Whew! Hey, helpful knowledge isn't helpful if it's not shared and put to good use right? The FRUITS for better skin are the following;
1. Papaya. Like I said in one of my previous posts, this is an amazing fruit. Do you know why all the hype about papaya being an effective skin whitener? Well, its because it contains a digestive enzyme called PAPAIN which clears damage caused by free radicals. The fruit itself is also rich in beta-carotene which is a good anti-oxidant against free radical damage. Papaya can keep you always looking young. A magical fruit indeed.
2. Pumpkin. Has anti-aging properties when applied on the skin. Also has anti-aging properties when eaten due to its rich content of Beta-carotene.
3. Grapefruit( Pink). This fruit as well as other citrus fruits high in Vit. C (Ascorbic Acid) is an excellent exfoliant when applied directly to the skin. When eaten it has anti-oxidant properties, helping delay aging.
4. Berries. Rich in anti-oxidants. Delay aging process.
5. Pineapple. A terrific skin softener when applied over rough spots. Also a major source of Vit. C when eaten. Vit. C helps fight off free radical damage and also helps delay the aging process.
6. Watermelon. This fruit is the richest source of Lycopene in any fruit or vegetable ( surprise!) and it has been shown to prevent UV damage by as much as 40%. Lycopene is an anti-oxidant that scavenges free radical and prevents them from damaging cells. You can look younger with daily servings of this fruit. A healthy summer fruit indeed, just in time for it's protective properties too.
7. Pomegranate. Shows promise as the next anti-aging wonder. This fruit contains an enzyme which prevents sub-structural breakdown of our skin. Also, the oil extract from its seeds has been shown to have rejuvinating properties when applied to your skin.
8. Avocado. This fruit is rich in fiber, minerals, and the "good" fats. It's also a good source of the anti-oxidant vitamin, Vit. E. When applied as a mask it helps remove skin impurities.
9. Apples. This fruit is another overlooked wonder. It helps tone, rejuvinates, and aids in healing our skin. Also, apples contain a substance called PECTIN which has been shown to be effective against acne.
10. Grapes. Rich in anti-oxidants which help delay the aging process.Also improves metabolism. Resveratrol, found on the skin of grapes have anti-cancer properties.
So there are our TOP 10 Fruits for Better Skin. Try them and see how they can make you Feel Better Today. Looking young and radiant is worth going through this list and expanding your own is it not? Until our next post. Do take care, always.
Firstly let's talk about what to avoid and what to do more of before we even consider the fruits we would love to buy every time we go to the supermarket for that "I look and feel young" skin. Here are the things to avoid:
1. Too much sunlight. UV rays damage our skin by producing toxic free radicals which must be repaired by our cells. I always advise patients and people in general that if you were to expose yourself to the sun excessively you should eat foods that have high anti-oxidant value, as well as supplement with vitamins which help repair cells from free radical damage (Vitamins E, C, and A). Also, remember that as a natural defense mechanism for our skin against harmful sun-rays it produces more of the pigment melanin. That explains why we get darker the longer we stay out in the sun.
2. Stress. Stress can have profound effects on our skin. It decreases our immune systems ability to counter infection. It also contributes to free radical production which is a big factor in that it speeds up aging ( and wrinkling of our skin). What's more is that stress affects the digestion of our food, hence limiting the amount of much needed nutrients to our skin.
3. Not enough sleep. Sleep is the way by which our bodies rest. It's also the avenue by which our body regenerates its reserves to rebuild or repair our cells and tissues. One such repair is eradication of free radicals. Deprivation or lack of sleep not only affects our mental and physiologic functions but also is a major cause of auto accidents year in and year out.
4. Bad Hygienic practices. This is obvious folks. Good hygienic practices promotes better health and better skin.
5. Exposure to caustic substances and /or chemicals. Read the labels of every chemical you come in contact with and I mean EVERY chemical. Look for the WARNING sign and read it. If in doubt, wear gloves. You'll be glad you did. It's common sense.
So, we have talked about what to avoid altogether and now let's consider what to do more of for that healthy skin:
1. Water. Let me let you in on a little secret. WATER IS THE SECRET TO ALL LIFE. Imagine where we would be without water. Water is the most natural purifier for your skin. Adequate hydration removes unwanted toxins from our body for that healthy, glowing, and radiant skin. Also, what's important to remember is that we ourselves, our bodies, is over 70% water. That is why prolonged dehydration can have deadly effects in our body. Here's another TIP on water you may already know: When you wash your face wash first with warm water, soap and work the lather around in circles to promote circulation in your skin. Also keep your hands warm by immersing them in lukewarm water often. This will help open your pores. Rinse with lukewarm water again then with cold water to close your pores. Pat with towel to dry.
2. Exercise. Exercise does wonders for your skin!! Let me repeat that. Exercise does wonders for your skin. During exercise, the increase in circulation also increases the rate by which we remove unwanted wastes and toxins from our bodies as well as speeding up cell rejuvination and renewal. Remember that as we sweat we also sweat off some of these toxins. Exercise is also a means to fight stress and we already talked about what stress can do to your radiant skin.
3. Massage. Massage like exercise improves circulation and muscle tone. By massaging our skin we help circulation flow optimally. Massaging also relieves stress.
So we have talked about what to avoid and what to do more of and we have talked about a handful, actually. Whew! Hey, helpful knowledge isn't helpful if it's not shared and put to good use right? The FRUITS for better skin are the following;
1. Papaya. Like I said in one of my previous posts, this is an amazing fruit. Do you know why all the hype about papaya being an effective skin whitener? Well, its because it contains a digestive enzyme called PAPAIN which clears damage caused by free radicals. The fruit itself is also rich in beta-carotene which is a good anti-oxidant against free radical damage. Papaya can keep you always looking young. A magical fruit indeed.
2. Pumpkin. Has anti-aging properties when applied on the skin. Also has anti-aging properties when eaten due to its rich content of Beta-carotene.
3. Grapefruit( Pink). This fruit as well as other citrus fruits high in Vit. C (Ascorbic Acid) is an excellent exfoliant when applied directly to the skin. When eaten it has anti-oxidant properties, helping delay aging.
4. Berries. Rich in anti-oxidants. Delay aging process.
5. Pineapple. A terrific skin softener when applied over rough spots. Also a major source of Vit. C when eaten. Vit. C helps fight off free radical damage and also helps delay the aging process.
6. Watermelon. This fruit is the richest source of Lycopene in any fruit or vegetable ( surprise!) and it has been shown to prevent UV damage by as much as 40%. Lycopene is an anti-oxidant that scavenges free radical and prevents them from damaging cells. You can look younger with daily servings of this fruit. A healthy summer fruit indeed, just in time for it's protective properties too.
7. Pomegranate. Shows promise as the next anti-aging wonder. This fruit contains an enzyme which prevents sub-structural breakdown of our skin. Also, the oil extract from its seeds has been shown to have rejuvinating properties when applied to your skin.
8. Avocado. This fruit is rich in fiber, minerals, and the "good" fats. It's also a good source of the anti-oxidant vitamin, Vit. E. When applied as a mask it helps remove skin impurities.
9. Apples. This fruit is another overlooked wonder. It helps tone, rejuvinates, and aids in healing our skin. Also, apples contain a substance called PECTIN which has been shown to be effective against acne.
10. Grapes. Rich in anti-oxidants which help delay the aging process.Also improves metabolism. Resveratrol, found on the skin of grapes have anti-cancer properties.
So there are our TOP 10 Fruits for Better Skin. Try them and see how they can make you Feel Better Today. Looking young and radiant is worth going through this list and expanding your own is it not? Until our next post. Do take care, always.
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