Articles
Weight gain during menopause
We hear this so often. The moment women go into either menopause or peri-menopause, the weight starts piling on and all the wheels come off. Yes, it’s a hormonal problem, that’s pretty obvious, but what can you do about it? Know this – there is hope! The first thing to comfort yourself with is the knowledge that this is a normal phase of life. It’s not a disease and should not be treated as such. Natural methods, lifestyle, supplements and diet can get you sailing through this time of life. Here is some helpful guidance to support you: VERY important: You have to realise that carbohydrates are not your friend. This is because as we get older our insulin automatically (like everything else!) goes south or rather in the case of insulin becomes less sensitive. This means more insulin is produced and the more insulin you are producing the more fat you are storing around your belly. You have to now ‘break up’ with carbs like bread, sugar, alcohol and dairy. If you are one of the lucky ones who has sailed through menopause without this problem and you may well sit there and laugh at the rest of us. Not many people escape this middle-aged spread story but you are blessed if you can still indulge in all your favourites. While still getting away with no weight gain. We are all very envious.Great news – we are here to help and would like to support you along your journey. Read Sally-Ann’s book 63 Days to Optimum Health here. https://sallyanncreed.co.za/product/63-days-to-optimum-health/ You naturally experience fatigue at this time of life (don’t worry, it passes!), and you could end up reaching for processed food or ready meals from sheer exhaustion – and turn to sweet things and alcohol to comfort and relax so you get through the day. You need to eat wholesome REAL food. This is a secret hiding in plain sight – eating real food every single meal you possibly can. And if you need an afternoon power nap, take one – it can refresh you no end. Thyroid hormones dictate how much energy the cells of the body can produce. When the levels of hormone increase, it tells the body to burn fat to produce cellular energy (ATP). Compromised thyroid hormone levels will prevent burning carbs and fat, and lead to weight gain. Extra stress at this time of life contributes to how our hormones react. Very often around this time you are dealing with many stressors and there is simply no time for you! This is a huge part of the equation. Stress leads to excess cortisol being produced by the adrenals, and may lead to weight gain. Estrogen is not the only hormone which is affected. As estrogen declines, so cortisol is elevated, thyroid hormones may be affected, and then there is insulin and leptin. Your body is undergoing a complete hormonal shift. Be kind to yourself and realise that this is something that you can control up to a point with lifestyle and diet. And by saying NO to more outside requests so that you have the time and stamina for things you need to do for yourself and your family. Insulin is the hormone responsible for decreasing circulating blood sugar. It’s necessary and wonderful when it “works” properly. But to keep a balanced level you need to dump the sugars and grains and anything high in carbohydrates. (The Low-Carb Creed outlines all this with lists and ideas for you). More carbs means more insulin, which means more fat storage, and perhaps insulin resistance, which is a decreased sensitivity to insulin, and a precursor to diabetes. Insulin resistance leads to weight gain, possible high blood pressure and raised blood lipids – even the dreaded fatty liver – so it is important to either not let this happen, or address it now and reverse it. Cortisol, our main stress hormone, increases blood sugar levels providing fuel to the cells to provide energy. Very high blood sugar levels lead to cortisol resistance and adrenal fatigue, as the adrenals are unable to keep up with the demand for more and more cortisol – all this leads to weight gain and no energy. Leptin is the hormone our fat cells produce to tell the hypothalamus in the brain that we have had enough to eat, thank you. Too much fructose especially leads to leptin resistance where the messaging system stops working, the brain doesn’t get the message that you are full, you remain hungry and continue to eat more and more to satiate yourself. Take some helpful supplements during this difficult time. The following are all helpful – and may get you flying through this bumpy time: – B Complex – this is a winner for menopause – Omega-3 fish oil – Renewed Balance cream (a natural progesterone – only if you are not on HRT) – Vitamin D3 – really important for 1000 reasons! – Vitamin K2 for heart and bones – Pure Hydrolysed Collagen is amazing for so many reasons too – Glutamine (prevents cravings) – Berberine (blood sugar balance) And then there are the targeted nutrients and specialised supplements you’ll get under the direction of a trained Functional Nutritional Therapist. All of these products are available from the online store on our website here www.sallyanncreed.co.za/shop – use the “search” button if you get stuck finding them.
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How to manage food cravings while transitioning on ketoÂ
So, you’ve taken the plunge into the world of keto, but those food cravings are creeping up on you. Don’t worry – you’re not alone! It’s perfectly normal to experience cravings when transitioning from a carb-heavy diet to a healthy keto one. Let’s dive into why these cravings happen and, more importantly, how to tackle them. First things first, cravings are triggered by various factors. It can be nutrient deficiencies, stress, lack of sleep, or even those pesky blood sugar levels playing tricks on you. But the most common culprit? Glucose. Initially, your body is still in the “glucose groove” and hasn’t quite figured out this whole ketone thing yet. So it sends your brain signals for carbs because, well, that’s what it knows. The good news is that these cravings won’t stick around forever. Typically, it takes about a week or two (sometimes a tad longer) for your body to fully adapt to using ketones (a.k.a. fat) as its primary fuel source. The good news is that once you’ve made that switch, those cravings vanish into thin air. Until then, though, let’s arm you with some strategies to keep those cravings in check: Embrace Fat and Protein: Fat and protein are your keto superheroes. Fat is a cornerstone of the keto diet, and protein helps stabilize your blood sugar levels and keeps you feeling full. Don’t skimp on these macronutrients, especially when starting out. Keep some high-fat and high-protein snacks on hand to beat those cravings. Regular Eating Times: Consistency is key! Make sure you’re eating at least three meals a day and toss in a snack or two if needed. This helps maintain steady blood sugar levels, keeping cravings at bay. Sleep Your Cravings Away: A good night’s sleep is a fantastic craving antidote. Inadequate sleep messes with your hunger hormones, making you crave sugary delights. So make sleep a priority, and you’ll thank yourself in the morning. Keto-Friendly Alternatives: If you’re yearning for a specific treat, like brownies or cookies, fear not! There’s a world of keto-friendly recipes out there. They often swap wheat flour for nut-based flour and use sugar alternatives like erythritol or monk fruit. You can have your keto cake (or cookie) and eat it too. Nutrient Check: Sometimes, cravings are your body’s way of saying, “Hey, I need something specific!” For example, magnesium deficiency might lead to chocolate cravings. Listen to your body and try to read the genuine cravings amongst the bad. Stress Less: Stress can send your eating habits into a whirlwind. Combat it with stress management techniques like yoga, meditation, or simply taking a calming walk. Sometimes, a bit of self-care can do wonders. Feeling snacky? Swap out those potato chips for crispy pork rinds. Instead of cheese and crackers, go for cheese with olives or celery. And if trail mix is calling your name, opt for a nut mix without the dried fruit. Remember, cravings are just temporary bumps on your keto journey. With a little patience and these tips, you’ll be cruising along smoothly toward your keto goals in no time. Keep calm and keto on!
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Whey Protein Concentrate vs Isolate
In the world of fitness and nutrition, protein is often hailed as the king of nutrients. It plays a crucial role in muscle repair, immune function, and overall well-being. Among the various sources of protein, whey protein stands out as a popular and effective option. However, not all whey proteins are created equal. In this article, we will explore the key differences between two common forms of whey protein: whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate. Our goal is to help you make an informed choice that aligns with your health and fitness goals. Understanding Whey Protein Before delving into the differences, let’s first understand what whey protein is and why it’s valued in the nutrition and fitness community. Derived from milk during the cheese-making process, whey protein is a complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids necessary for optimal bodily function. It boasts an impressive amino acid profile, with a particularly high concentration of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) like leucine, which play a pivotal role in muscle protein synthesis and recovery. Furthermore, whey protein is rapidly absorbed by the body, making it an ideal choice for post-workout nutrition. Now, let’s explore the two main forms of whey protein: concentrate and isolate. Whey Protein Concentrate: A Closer Look Whey Protein Concentrate typically contains around 70-80% protein by weight. The remaining 20-30% consists of carbohydrates (lactose) and fats. While it does provide a decent protein content, it may not be suitable for individuals looking to increase their protein intake without additional calories. The benefits of whey protein concentrate include: Nutrient-rich: Whey protein concentrate retains many of the beneficial nutrients found in whole whey, such as immunoglobulins and lactoferrin, which support the immune system. Cost-effective: Whey protein concentrate tends to be less expensive than whey protein isolate due to its lower level of processing. Satiety: The presence of fats and carbohydrates in Whey protein concentrate can help you feel fuller for longer, making it a good option for meal replacements or weight management. However, there are some downsides to whey protein concentrate: If you are lactose intolerant or have a sensitivity to lactose, Whey protein concentrate may not be the best choice for you, as it contains a higher amount of lactose compared to whey protein isolate. The lower protein concentration in Whey protein concentrate means you need to consume more product to achieve the same protein intake as with whey protein isolate. Whey Protein Isolate: The Purest Form Whey protein isolate undergoes additional processing steps to remove most of the fats, lactose, and other non-protein components, resulting in a product that is typically 90% or more pure protein. This high level of purity makes whey protein isolate an attractive option for those seeking a protein source with minimal additional nutrients. The benefits of whey protein isolate include: High protein content: With over 90% protein content, Whey protein isolate is an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake without added fats and carbohydrates. Low lactose: The extensive filtration process used to produce Whey protein isolate reduces lactose content to minimal levels, making it a suitable option for many individuals with lactose intolerance. Rapid absorption: Whey protein isolate is quickly digested and absorbed, making it an ideal choice for post-workout recovery when your muscles need protein most. Low fat and carbs: Whey protein isolate is virtually fat-free and contains very few carbohydrates, making it suitable for those on low-carb or ketogenic diets. However, it’s important to consider the downsides of whey protein isolate: Whey protein isolate is generally more expensive than whey protein concentrate due to the additional processing steps. The extensive processing to create Whey protein isolate removes some of the beneficial nutrients found in whole whey, such as immunoglobulins and lactoferrin. Now that we’ve explored the differences between whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate, let’s discuss the best choice for your unique needs. If you are lactose intolerant or have lactose sensitivity: Whey protein isolate is the clear winner here. Its minimal lactose content makes it easier to digest and less likely to cause gastrointestinal discomfort. If you’re looking for the highest protein content: Whey protein isolate is your best bet. With over 90% pure protein, it allows you to maximise your protein intake without extra calories from fats and carbs. If you’re on a tight budget: Whey protein concentrate is a more cost-effective option, providing a good balance of protein and additional nutrients. While it may not be as pure as isolate, it’s still a valuable source of protein. If you’re seeking immune support and additional nutrients: Whey protein concentrate retains more of the natural immune-boosting components found in whole whey, making it a suitable choice if you want a holistic approach to your nutrition. In the debate between whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate, the scales tip overwhelmingly in favour of whey protein isolate for several reasons: Higher Protein Content: Whey protein isolate contains over 90% pure protein by weight, providing a more efficient way to meet your protein goals without unnecessary calories from carbohydrates and fats. Lactose-Free: Isolate is virtually lactose-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance. Minimal Fat Content: It is a low-fat option, ideal for individuals aiming to limit their fat intake. Superior Digestibility: Isolate is highly digestible and less likely to cause digestive discomfort or allergic reactions. Bioavailability: Its rapid absorption rate makes it the top choice for post-workout recovery and muscle protein synthesis. If you’re looking for a pure, clean whey protein, then Sally-Ann Creed Pure Whey Isolate is what you’re after. Its purity and quick digestibility make it an ideal choice for post-workout recovery and meeting your protein requirements efficiently. Remember, the best choice for you is the one that aligns with your dietary preferences, lifestyle, and health considerations. Always consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist to ensure that your protein choice supports your overall well-being and fitness goals.
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What's so great about our Sports Recovery Drink?
When running a race, people often focus on fuel. How can I make it through without running out of energy? What can I take to make me stronger, faster, increase stamina, etc. We believe that if you train properly, then you might not even need these things. Especially since they’re all loaded with maltodextrin or caffeine or BOTH! We decided that the best way to prepare your body is through post-training recovery. That’s why we spent time developing the best Sports Recovery powder we could. Our Sports Recovery powder is specially formulated to improve sport performance by providing the necessary nutrients to enhance recovery. We’ve created a unique blend of active ingredients including Pure Hydrolysed Collagen, L-Glutamine powder, Vitamin C, MaxiMSM powder and Prebiotic Fibre enriched with MCTs. Our Pure Hydrolysed Collagen is the hero in our formulation. Our 100% pure, grass-fed, non-GMO collagen is rich in amino acids glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. It’s a key player in maintaining the integrity of your joints, tendons, and more. Plus, it’s highly absorbable by your body, ensuring speedy recovery and long-term health benefits. L-Glutamine powder is another vital ingredient. With natural anti-inflammatory properties, it aids in muscle cell repair, contributing to muscle growth and maintenance. It’s also wonderful for your immune system, protecting your body while it focuses on rebuilding worn and weary muscles. MaxiMSM powder is a form of Methylsulfonylmethane, a crucial sulphur-containing mineral for joint health. This natural compound helps reduce inflammation and pain, preserving joint function and aiding recovery post-exercise. We chose sodium ascorbate for this blend as it is gentle on your digestive system and easily absorbed by your body. Vitamin C is a well-known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, boosting your immune system, reducing fatigue, and supporting collagen formation for bone and cartilage. Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are popular among athletes and active individuals. They help burn fat and boost energy efficiently, providing a quick source of energy to power your workouts. Finally, we’ve included MaxiPrebiotic, a powerful prebiotic made from chicory root. It nurtures your gut microbiome, leading to improved digestion, immunity, and overall health. In a nutshell, this unique blend of amazing ingredients speeds up muscle tissue recovery and the benefits may include: Improved post-exercise muscle repair and recovery. Promoted muscle tissue maintenance and growth. Assistance with joint mobility, pain management and stiffness Natural antioxidant properties that optimise immunity, boost collagen production and assist with inflammation. Reduced symptoms of fatigue and improved energy production And that’s not all. We’ve added a delicious and natural flavouring to give our blend a refreshing taste – perfect for satisfying your thirst after a workout, run, swim, or cycle. It’s like a delicious and healthy reward for all your hard work! And because it’s sweetened using Monk Fruit, which doesn’t affect your blood sugar levels, it’s great for diabetics too!
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Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin used by the body for normal bone development and maintenance by increasing the absorption of calcium, magnesium, and phosphate. A severe Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Sadly, Vitamin D deficiency is still widely prevalent in both developed and developing countries, and is associated with osteoporosis, increased risk of falls and fragility fractures. Many conflicting recent studies are now showing an association between vitamin D deficiency and cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and depression. Symptoms: Fatigue Not sleeping well Bone pain or achiness Depression or feelings of sadness Hair loss Muscle weakness Loss of appetite Getting sick more easily Pale skin 5 foods naturally high in vitamin D: Fatty fish like salmon, trout, tuna and mackerel Canned fish like herring and sardines Egg yolks Beef liver Fish liver 5 vitamin D fortified foods: Breakfast cereals Milk Almond milk Soy milk Orange juice Get vitamin D from sunlight When your skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays from the sun, your body creates vitamin D. While you’re enjoying the sun, 7-dehydrocholesterol in the skin absorbs UV B radiation and is converted to previtamin D3 which in turn isomerizes into vitamin D3. Make time daily to get out in the sun. If you don’t have classes, office work or commitments scheduled that require you to go outside for the day, set aside a few minutes to take a quick walk, even if it’s just around the block. Even just 10 minutes per day will be enough to elevate your Vitamin D3 levels naturally. Wear a hat if it’s very hot, and enjoy your free natural vitamin D3. Remember that sunscreen will drop your body’s ability to create vitamin D3, so if you don’t get regular sunlight, you may need to increase your dietary intake or take a vitamin D supplement. Take a vitamin D supplement Vitamin D has two main forms: D2 and D3. You can absorb both types in your body. Still, studies have shown that vitamin D3 raises your levels more effectively than vitamin D2. The recommended dietary allowance of vitamin D for young adults is 600-1000 iu (international units). A doctor may prescribe a prescription-strength dose of vitamin D if your levels are severely low. Are vitamin D supplements safe? Yes. A vitamin D supplement doesn’t cause many adverse effects at recommended doses. What you don’t use, your body usually urinates out, so it’s difficult to overdose on vitamin D unless you are taking massive doses. Prolonged supplementation with extremely high vitamin D levels is harmful and can cause nausea, vomiting, confusion, excessive thirst and kidney stones. Vitamin D supplements can interact with certain medications, so check with your doctor before starting one.
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The different types of protein
Proteins, those essential building blocks of life, are long chains of amino acids cleverly connected by what we call α-peptide bonds. When we eat foods containing proteins, like meats, dairy, eggs, legumes, nuts, and seeds, our gastrointestinal tract springs into action. It diligently digests these proteins, breaking them down into smaller peptides and free amino acids. These tiny molecular treasures are then absorbed into our bloodstream, where they embark on a remarkable journey. They are put to work in our cells, constructing brand new proteins and performing various vital functions. But proteins aren’t just about making other proteins; some amino acids are also involved in crafting non protein substances that our bodies need. Now, here’s a fun fact: out of the 20 amino acids found in proteins, NINE are considered essential for adult humans. These nine are leucine, valine, isoleucine, histidine, lysine, methionine, threonine, tryptophan, and phenylalanine. The term “essential” means our bodies can’t create them, so we rely on our diet to provide them. Speaking of diet, let’s talk about how much protein we should aim for. For adults, the recommended daily intake is around 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. If you’re pregnant or nursing your newborn, it’s advised to add an extra 10 – 15 grams of protein to your daily intake. Growing children also need more protein. On average, adult women consume about 64 grams of protein daily, while men consume around 104 grams. Protein is found in various foods, like eggs, meats, dairy, seafood, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Regardless of the source, once it enters our body, it gets broken down and reshaped into new proteins. Most animal proteins are considered complete proteins because they contain all nine essential amino acids. On the other hand, most plant proteins are incomplete, lacking at least one essential amino acid. But combining different plant-based protein sources can fill in those gaps. Unlike fat and carbohydrates, our bodies don’t have a dedicated storage system for protein. Instead, they can break down muscle tissue to obtain protein building blocks if needed. That’s why it’s crucial to consume protein regularly to avoid such a situation. Protein-rich foods have another neat trick up their sleeve – they make us feel full for longer. They do this by increasing thermogenesis and through certain amino acids, like leucine, influencing our brain. The world of proteins is both fascinating and essential to our well-being. By making informed choices about our protein sources and ensuring we meet our daily requirements, we can take significant steps towards a healthier and more balanced life. References: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6140426/ https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/protein/
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Vitamin D: The “sunshine” vitamin
What is vitamin D and the role it plays in our body? Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin which is used by the body for normal bone development and maintenance. Vitamin D assists in increasing the absorption of calcium and phosphate in our bodies[1]. Without vitamin D, only 10–15% of dietary calcium and about 60% of phosphorus can be absorbed.[2] Vitamin D is unique in that it can be made in the skin from sunlight exposure. It exists in two forms, namely Vitamin D2 obtained from the sun when it strikes the skin and vitamin D3 produced by the human body.[2] People with a darker skin tone have natural sun protection and require at least three to five times more exposure to the sun in order to make the same amount of vitamin D as a person with a lighter skin tone.[3] The way we determine our vitamin D levels is through a blood test, which is done by a healthcare professional, and maybe reported in different ways. You can either get the total vitamin D result, or separate results for Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3. A circulating level of D greater than 30 ng/mL is required to maintain a healthy level of vitamin D. If your total vitamin D level shows a vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency, you may need to supplement with additional Vitamin D3 or implement some dietary changes.[2,4] What is vitamin D deficiency?Vitamin D insufficiency affects at least 50% of the population worldwide and an estimated 1 billion people across all age groups and ethnicities have a Vitamin D deficiency (VDD). This is mainly attributed to lifestyle (i.e., reduced outdoor activities) and/or environmental factors (i.e., air pollution) due to reduced sunlight exposure.[2] VDD can lead to an array of problems, and is an important public health issue since vitamin D plays a supportive role against cancer, heart disease, fractures, autoimmune diseases, influenza, type-2 diabetes, and depression.[3] Who may need extra vitamin D to prevent a deficiency?Getting enough vitamin D from your food alone is a task on its own. Besides exposure to sunlight, a dietary supplement is incredibly useful in order to meet your daily need of this VITAL vitamin for the following individuals:[5] Older adults People with limited sun exposure People with dark skin tones People with fat malabsorption People who are obese People with milk allergy People with lactose intolerance Complications of Vitamin D deficiencyIf you are Vitamin D deficient, this will result in a decreased absorption of dietary calcium and phosphorus levels. This leads to an increase in our parathyroid hormone (PTH). An increased level of PTH causes the levels of calcium in your blood to rise, causing further problems like bone weakness, a decrease in bone mineral density (BMD), and kidney stones. Children with VDD often struggle with irritability, lethargy, and developmental delays, while adults can experience symptoms associated with secondary hyperparathyroidism including bone pain, fatigue, muscle, and weakness increasing sway and frequent falls thereby increasing their risk of fracture.[7,8] What are the sources of vitamin D?It is important to eat a diverse diet that is rich in vitamin D. There are only a few commonly consumed foods that are good sources of vitamin D. We recommend the following: Cod liver oil Oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardines Milk and dairy products (cheese) Eggs Beef and liver Don’t forget that the biggest source of our vitamin D is exposure to the sun. Vitamin D which is produced by our skin lasts two times longer in our blood compared with ingested vitamin D. Season, geographic latitude, time of day, cloud cover, smog, and sunscreen affects the UV ray exposure and vitamin D synthesis. Sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 8 or greater will block UV rays that produce vitamin D, but it is still important to routinely use sunscreen to help prevent skin cancer and other negative consequences of excessive sun exposure. An initial exposure to sunlight of between 10 -15 minutes at least two times per week to the face, arms, hands, or back without sunscreen is usually sufficient to provide adequate vitamin D. This should be followed by application of a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 to protect the skin. It is very important for individuals with limited sun exposure to include good sources of vitamin D in their diet. What is the recommended management of VDD? Treatment with either vitamin D2 or vitamin D3 supplementation is recommended for the deficient patient. The amount of vitamin D required to treat the deficiency depends on the severity of the deficiency and underlying risk factors. We recommend sticking to a daily dosage of 1000iu. Vitamin D deficient individuals may need to take up to 50,000iu per week in order to repair their levels. Your health care professional will prescribe the appropriate dose of vitamin D supplementation based on your blood tests. What are the health risks of too much vitamin D? Vitamin D toxicity results from excess oral intake and not due to excessive sunlight exposure. It can cause nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, constipation, weakness, and weight loss. It can also raise blood levels of calcium, causing mental status changes such as confusion. High blood levels of calcium also can cause heart rhythm abnormalities. Sun exposure is unlikely to result in vitamin D toxicity. Diet is also unlikely to cause vitamin D toxicity, unless large amounts of cod liver oil are consumed. Vitamin D toxicity is much more likely to occur from high intakes of vitamin D in supplements. That’s why it’s so important to dose correctly and according to your body’s needs. References: [1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/NBK532266[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18641195[4] https://medlineplus.gov[5] http://suprabrands.com/vitamin_d.pdf[6] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/4130245/[7] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18413426/[8] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15886381/[9] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8390483/
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The Role of Spices in Traditional Medicine and Healing Practices
Throughout history, spices have held a special place in the lives of people from various corners of the world. They’ve been an integral part of our culture, serving dual roles as both ingredients in delicious dishes and remedies for various ailments. For generations, humans have turned to herbs and spices not only to add flavour to their meals but also to address health concerns. These incredible plants contain biomolecules that contribute significantly to our well-being. Their versatility is astounding, also playing roles as colouring agents, flavour enhancers, preservatives, food additives, and even medicine throughout history. The secret lies in the active phytochemicals found within these spices, forming the molecular foundation for their various uses. From easing digestive discomfort to promoting respiratory health, and even supporting detoxification, spices have found their way into our daily lives in more ways than we might realize. Think about it: turmeric, fenugreek, mustard, ginger, onion, and garlic, to name just a few, each offer a diverse array of health benefits. What’s truly remarkable is how these spices often work together in harmony, providing us with a shield against a wide range of health challenges. From ancient times right up to today, spices continue to play a pivotal role in our lives, not just in our culinary adventures but in our holistic approach to well-being. So, the next time you sprinkle some spices into your favourite dish, remember that you’re not just adding flavour; you’re embracing a tradition that has contributed to our health and happiness for centuries. The table below dives into the wonderful world of spices, their uses and benefits. Spices Uses Benefits Bay leaf (Tez Patta) It is used in cooking to add a specific flavour to food. It also has some medicinal properties. Bay leaf oil possesses antifungal and antibacterial properties. Cardamom (Elaichi) Mostly in all Indian and other sweet dishes it used to give a good flavour and smell. It is also used widely in the pharmaceutical sector. Helps to control bad breath and digestive disorder. A whole cardamom chewed is good for coping with diabetes. Cinnamon (Dalchini) It is used mainly for seasoning food and preparing masala. It has medicinal uses too. It supports natural production of insulin and reduces blood cholesterol. Clove (Laung) It is used as a cooking ingredient mainly for seasoning or preparing Masalas. Clove oil is beneficial for coping with toothache and sore gums. It is also a beneficial remedy for chest pains, fever, digestive problems, cough and cold. Coriander (Dhaniya) Coriander leaves as well as coriander seeds are used in cooking. It also has some medicinal uses. It can be used externally on aching joints and rheumatism. It is also good for coping with sore throat, allergies, digestion problems, hay fever etc. Cumin (Zeera) It is used for cooking, and it also possesses medicinal properties. It is a good source of iron and keeps the immune system healthy. Water boiled with cumin seeds is good for coping with dysentery. Garlic (Lassan) It is used for cooking as well as for medicinal purposes. It is useful for coping with coughs and colds. It also has antibiotic properties. Ginger (Adrak) It is used for giving a specific flavour to food and has many medicinal uses. Helps to avoid digestive problems. It is beneficial for coping with coughs and colds. Mustard (Rye) It is used for seasoning as well as green leafy vegetables. The use of mustard oil is extensive in India, but is banned in some countries. Mustard oil is good for body massage and even for getting good hair. It consists of omega-3 fatty acids. It is an excellent source of iron, zinc, manganese, calcium, protein etc. Star anise (Chakra Phool) It is used in cooking and for medicinal purposes. Star anise oil is beneficial for rheumatism. It is helpful for digestion and avoiding bad breath. Turmeric (Haldi) It is used in cooking and skin care products. It has a wide range of medicinal uses. It helps deal with skin problems. Turmeric powder can be used for healing cuts and wounds. It also makes coping with diabetes easier. Traditionally, spices have been an essential part of our diets, and they bring a holistic touch to our meals. Despite their robust flavours, spices are often used in small quantities, which means they don’t add many calories to our food. But here’s the exciting part: even in those small amounts, many spices, especially those made from seeds, are packed with goodness like fat, protein, and carbohydrates. Now, here’s where it gets interesting. When you decide to go all out with your spices and use them generously, they can become a source of essential minerals and other micronutrients. Think iron, magnesium, calcium, and a whole bunch of others that are like little treasures for your diet. So, whether you sprinkle them lightly or go all-in, spices not only add a burst of flavour but also bring a dose of nutrition to the table.Talk about dynamite coming in small packages!
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