Mushrooms Recipes for Cancer Treatment: Cancer Research and Mushrooms

As per the US National Cancer Research Institute, there are approximately 11 million people living with cancer in the United States, as in 2008. Breast Cancer is the most common cancer in women while the most common cancer in males includes prostate cancer. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death across the globe and in the United States. Correct dietary practices and healthy diet plays a crucial role in preventing cancer and enhancing overall immunity. Research studies have pointed toward the fact that mushrooms play a crucial role in improving cancer outcome in cancer patients. This article is about cancer and the role of mushrooms in cancer management.

Mushrooms are beneficial
to prevent cancer

Cancer Research and Mushrooms: Mushrooms for Healthy Diet

Research and laboratory investigations suggest that button mushrooms are wonder foods that enhance the body’s immune mechanism significantly. In a clinical trial, pounded white button mushrooms were administered to mice, and results showed a boost in the manufacture of natural killer cells in them. These killer cells have the potential to shield the body against cancers and virus infected cells.

Including Mushrooms in the diet can help booth immunity while also act as protective foods against management of chronic ailments like advanced stages of cancer.

What are Button Mushrooms?: Nutritional Highlights of Mushrooms

Button mushrooms actually resemble miniature umbrellas. These belong to the Agaricus Bisporus family. There are 3 varieties of button mushrooms – the white button mushroom, brown button mushroom, and brown-open button mushroom.

According to the ancient Egyptians, the mushrooms own the secret to immortality. Consequently, decrees were enforced, and only the Pharaohs were permitted access to them and allowed to eat them. Certain nutritional facts of Mushrooms are,

·         Button mushrooms are excellent sources of the vitamin B group.

·         Mushrooms also provide liberal amounts of copper, selenium and zinc.

·         Phyto-chemicals (powerful anti-oxidants) are also found in great abundance in button mushrooms.

Mushrooms protect against
breast cancer

Mushrooms for Cancer Treatment: Preventing and Treating Cancer with Mushrooms

Mushrooms possess highly potent immune-enhancing, infection-fighting and anti-cancer elements. They augment the levels of the NK cells (or the natural killer cells), that have a very vital part to play in battling cancer. Mushrooms improve the phagocytic activity of the macrophages, i.e. the phagocytes and the macrophages swallow up and obliterate cancer cells, infectious agents, and foreign bodies. Including mushrooms in regular diet can enhance immunity and protect individuals from developing cancer.

Mushrooms Recipes: Tips to Select Good Quality Mushrooms

Here are some quick service recipe ideas for mushrooms, which can help incorporating them in your regular diet,

1. Mushrooms make wonderful and scrumptious additions to pizzas. For the pizza sauce, add pureed tomato, diced and sautéed onions, garlic and chopped mushrooms.
2. Lightly brush mushrooms and vegetables with olive oil, and skewer them on to kebab skewers. Sprinkle a few herbs of your choice. Grill.
3. Stuffed mushrooms are a delectable snack option. Get rid of the stems and fill them with a cheese and vegetable filling. Grill or lightly sauté.

While selecting mushrooms ensure that one always selects fresh mushrooms. The mushrooms must be firm, fleshy, plump and clean. Steer clear of mushrooms that are greasy or wrinkled. Darkening of the flesh is an indication of aging. Opt for mushrooms that are white / light colored. Always stock mushrooms in a paper bag. Organically grown mushrooms are always a better choice.

Precautions of Mushroom Consumption:

1. Some kinds of mushrooms bring on diarrhea and gaseous distension of the abdomen, if eaten in huge amounts.
2. Allergic reactions, chiefly, skin rashes have also been testified occasionally.
3. Mushrooms supply loads of purines. Thus, individuals with high levels of serum uric acid or those suffering from gout should avoid the consumption of mushrooms.

Prune Juice Benefits: Treating Menopause Symptoms Naturally

Menopause is a natural phase in female’s life which marks the end of the reproductive age. Menopause is associated with a host of unwanted symptoms like depression, headache, hot flushes, osteoporosis, etc. Consuming Prune Juice is found to be highly beneficial in the management of these unwanted symptoms of menopause and is also beneficial in the management of perimenopause symptoms. This article is about the benefits of prune juice in the management of menopause and perimenopause symptoms.

Prunes have several
health benefits

What are Prunes?: Prunes for Managing Menopause Naturally

Prunes are essentially dried plums, just like, raisins are dried grapes. The well-liked brands of the dried fruit are manufactured from European plums. Plums are dried at about 90 degrees Celsius, in hot air, for about 18 hours, and that’s how prunes are manufactured. Prunes provide abundant amounts of vitamin A, phenolic compounds, boron, thiamine, vitamin B6, riboflavin and dietary fiber, in addition to powerful cancer-fighting anti-oxidants.

Prunes present extraordinary and incredible health benefits. They have been proved to be of invaluable assistance in fighting various symptoms of menopause (headaches, hot flushes, depression, etc), they improve gastrointestinal health. Prunes are also beneficial in controlling blood sugar levels and keeping serum cholesterol in check, especially in perimenopausal and menopausal women. Prunes are also helpful in fighting osteoporosis, linked to menopause.

Prune Juice Benefits: Managing Perimenopause Symptoms

 Prunes are loaded with essential nutrients and vitamins and hence are very beneficial in managing host of symptoms associated with menopause and perimenopause,

• Research and clinical studies verify that, an adequate intake of prunes, on a daily basis, by menopausal women, augments the presence of growth factors and enzymes that promote bone growth. Osteoporosis or bone de-mineralization is strongly linked to menopause. Thus, prunes increase bone health and prevent the susceptibility to fractures. What’s more, the high anti-oxidant content prevents the development of cancer. Vitamin A, vitamin B complex and iron check anemia, hot flushes, tingling numbness and mood swings successfully.




Prune Juice is beneficial
during Menopause


• Prunes ease the most stubborn and long standing instances of constipation, effortlessly. Prunes supply ample dietary fiber. Fiber adds weight to the stools, softens them and speeds up the expulsion of the toxic wastes, by reducing the passage time. Prunes help to detoxify the colon, by sweeping all old built up fecal matter, toxins and slush. Moreover, the beneficial bacteria present in the gut, make use of the fiber and synthesize butyric acid, the principal energy-source that helps sustain optimal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
• The potent anti-oxidants of the fruit avert free-radical damage. They prevent the oxidation of the low density lipoprotein, (LDL or the bad cholesterol), and hence, shield the heart and blood vessels from grave injury, and help ward off cardiovascular diseases.

Selecting Prunes: Quick-Serve Prunes Recipes

While buying prunes, make sure that they are totally blemish free and have a blackish-blue skin. The fruit should be to some extent elastic. Several dishes, both, savory and confectionary, taste wonderful and scrumptious, when prunes are added. Importantly, the nutritional quality of the dish is stepped up appreciably. Here are a few suggestions:

·   Add chopped prunes to yogurt, milkshakes and smoothies.

• Diced prunes make wonderful additions to home baked whole wheat breads, muffins, cookies and cakes.
• Prunes also create a delectable filling for poultry dishes.

Foods High in Fiber: High Fiber Diet is Healthy Diet

 

As per various research studies, high fiber diet has several health benefits. Primarily consuming foods high in dietary fiber can help reduce the risk of developing cardiac disorders, help in the management of diabetes and also reduces the risk of stroke. Further, consuming a fiber rich foods help in improving a host of gastro-intestinal disorders, which include constipation, diarrhea, hemorrhoids and indigestion. Role of fiber rich foods in weight loss is also pronounced. This article is about benefits of a high fiber diet on overall health.

What is High Fiber Diet? Healthy Diet Foods

Dietary fiber refers to bulk or roughage which comprises of insoluble fiber, cellulose, soluble fiber, inositol, fructo-oligosaccharides and lignans. These elements are usually found in plant foods and can’t be broken down by the digestive system of the body. Dietary fiber often passes through the body without being digested and plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health. As per Mayo Clinic, a diet high in fiber is considered beneficial for general health and should be an integral part of healthy diet practices.

Fiber Rich Foods Enhances Digestion: Best Diet for Indigestion


A fiber rich diet to
treat constipation



Fiber makes certain that the food that has been consumed, is discharged little by little, gradually, from the stomach into the colon. This ensures that the serum glucose level rises slowly and no spiking occurs. Thus, fiber rich foods are of great assistance to diabetics. Also, better digestion promises better absorption of the essential nutrients, thereby, promoting overall health and well being. In addition dietary fiber is important to have a healthy and optimal equilibrium between the beneficial bacterial colonies and the harmful, disease - producing bacteria within the gut. And, this is what dietary fiber achieves. Fiber boosts the synthesis of the short-chain type of fatty acids, that help reduce the intestinal pH and create a friendly environ for the beneficial bacteria.

High Dietary Fiber to Treat Constipation: Healthy Diet for Gastrointestinal Health
Insoluble dietary fiber has a strong water - retaining property and this makes the stool softer and bulkier. A heavier stool moves effortlessly through the bowel, and is quickly and without any trouble excreted from the colon.
More over, a soft and bulky stool requires lesser straining. Thus, fiber prevents the incidence of hemorrhoids / piles, directly related to straining during defecation. What‘s more, the passage time of the feces from the intestine out, is drastically cut down.
The stools pass easily and promptly out from the intestine, without any accumulation. When old fecal matter and toxic wastes accumulate in the bowel for long periods of time, the individual is subjected to cancer - producing compounds, like nitrosamines, within the colon. Quick passage diminishes the risk of developing colo-rectal cancer appreciably.

Fiber Rich Diet helps in
Optimum Weight Management

High Fiber Foods for Weight Loss: Healthy Diet for Optimum Weight Management
The serum cholesterol level is kept in check by the soluble dietary fiber. Fiber increases the fecal excretion of cholesterol, and prevents the liver from over-producing it. Lowered cholesterol level keeps cardio-vascular diseases at bay. Fiber helps get rid of superfluous and unwanted weight by - bringing on quick satiety, regulating the blood glucose level, decelerating the eating process and assisting in the elimination of built up toxins and debris from the colon. Fiber is considered highly beneficial for weight loss.

Foods Rich in Fiber: Dietary Sources of Fiber
Whole cereals, oat bran, prunes, wheat bran, pulses, sea weeds, guar gum, flax seeds, vegetables and fruits are brilliant sources of dietary fiber. Incorporating these foods in to the daily diet will produce extensive and remarkable health benefits.

Diabetes Diet Plans: Effective Diabetic Meals to Manage Hyperglycemia

With estimates of rising prevalence of diabetes across the globe, there is a need for new strategies and approaches to manage diabetes efficiently. Correct diet plays a vital role in the management and control of diabetes. Diabetic Diet Plan would vary depending upon the age, sex and weight of an individual; however there are certain basic considerations that can be beneficial in the management of diabetes. Further, a well designed diabetic diet can also be beneficial in controlling elevated blood pressure and high cholesterol levels in the blood. Here are some effective diet strategies to control blood sugar levels.

Diabetes Mellitus refers to a chronic metabolic disorder which is associated with elevated levels of blood sugar and is often associated with glucose excretion in urine. Diabetes is associated with higher risk of several complications which include kidney disorders, cardiovascular disorders, ophthalmological disorders, etc.  

Diabetic Diet Plans: Managing Hyperglycemia Naturally



Fresh Fruits are very good
for manaing Hyperglycemia



Dietary changes can help in drastically reduce elevated blood sugar levels and also prevents sudden spiking or fluctuations in the blood sugar levels. The following are tips that are beneficial in the management of hyperglycemia and avert the grave complications associated with diabetes.


• The most important aspect of diabetes management is to consume foods that are lower in glycemic index. Consuming such foods can help prevent sudden spiking of serum sugar levels and also prevents episodes of hypoglycemia. Ideally an individual should stay away from foods that are high in glycemic index.

• It is recommended to consume foods like kidney beans, prunes, preaches, oat, bran, soy, lima beans, lentils, broccoli, parsley, asparagus, cauliflower, cucumber, spinach and tomatoes. These foods have a low glycemic index and also are loaded with dietary fiber which plays a crucial role in enhancing insulin sensitivity and management of hyperglycemia
• Include raw foods in your diet. Fresh fruits and fresh vegetables plays a pivotal role in a diabetic diet plan.
• It should be remembered that individuals with diabetes are prone to sudden drop in blood sugar levels and hence it is advised to carry biscuits, candies or any form of sweets in cases of sudden emergency.

Managing Hyperglycemia Naturally: Effective Diet Strategies for Diabetics



Whilst including good foods in your diet, it is also important to avoid certain foods that can be detrimental to your overall health status. Here are certain foods that should be avoided especially to control hyperglycemia from setting in,





Avoiding Trans Fats is
important
to control diabetes


• Limit the intake of saturated fats and Trans Fat in your diet. Eliminate all canned foods, processed foods in your diet
• Avoid heavy meals. It is recommended to consume 6-8 meals comprising of small portions of food. Consuming heavy meals may result in sudden spike in blood sugar and result in hyperglycemia
• Don’t stay hungry for long. It should be noted that hunger is often associated with attacks of hyperglycemia which is often associated with dizziness. Take a snack every three to four hours. Whole grains, whole bread, oats, vegetable soups and salads should be consumed to regulating diabetes.
• Consuming foods loaded with dietary fiber and also play a crucial role in the helping the process of weight loss. Weight reduction is inevitable while designing a diet strategy for the management of diabetes. Fiber helps in achieving ideal body mass index and reestablishment of normal blood sugar levels.

Complementing Diabetic Diet Plans: Long Term Management of Hyperglycemia

A stand alone diabetic diet plan may not be effective unless it is associated with a multidisciplinary approach comprising of a regular exercise regimen. It should be borne in mind that the exercise regimen should be in lines with the overall medical history and health condition of the individual and their overall cardiac health.



Stress management is also vital in the management of diabetes. Optimum stress management using yoga techniques, aromatherapy and dietary measures can help in reducing the impact of diabetes on the overall health whilst offering a host of other health benefits. 

Foods to Check Diabetes: Manage Elevated Blood Sugar Naturally

As per the WHO estimates, prevalence of Diabetes was approximately 2.8% in 2000 and is expected to rise to 4.4% in 2030. There are approximately 171 million people suffering from diabetes which is projected to increase to 366 million by 2030. Diabetes is closely linked to obesity and rise in prevalence of obesity is expected to increase the prevalence of diabetes. Fortunately there are certain foods that can help check diabetes and control blood sugar levels naturally. This article provides insights into foods to check diabetes naturally.

 Diabetes mellitus occurs due to impaired metabolism of proteins, carbohydrate and fat and is clinically manifested in the form of elevation in the blood sugar levels. Diet and life-style plays a pivotal role in maintaining normal and optimum blood sugar levels and averting the detrimental effects and complications that are associated with elevation of normal blood sugar levels. Here are some foods that have been found to provide invaluable assistance in the management of diabetes naturally.

Cinnamon to Manage Diabetes: Cinnamon to control Elevated Blood Sugar Levels Naturally



Cinnamon Helps Control
Diabetes Naturally



Various laboratory reviews and clinical studies have shown that cinnamon, a herb, performs functions similar to the naturally occurring hormone insulin and thereby helps regulate blood sugar levels naturally. In a recent double blind study conducted, it was observed that about one gram of cinnamon each day for a period of forty days resulted in the reduction in fasting blood sugar levels by almost 29%.



Due to the extraordinary benefits that Cinnamon has on controlling blood sugar levels naturally, it is recommended to add a pinch of cinnamon to cakes, cookies, yoghurt, milkshakes and muffins. The active ingredient of Cinnamon is considered to help lower blood sugar levels naturally and often reduces the dependence of individuals on anti-glycemic drugs and synthetic insulin.

Bitter Melon for Diabetes:  Bitter Gourd Controls Blood Sugar Levels Naturally

Bitter Melon or Bitter Gourd juice is considered to have strong hypoglycemic effect. These results have be authenticated by various research studies and have resulted in the recommendation of the consumption of the food on regular basis, especially for the management of diabetes.

Bitter Gourd contains a compound called Charantin, which is considered to be equally effective as oral hypoglycemic drugs, which are often used in the treatment of diabetes. Further, bitter gourd also contains an insulin like agent referred to as Polypeptide P, which is considered to be beneficial in reducing the dependence on synthetic insulin among diabetic patients

It is recommended to consume about two ounces of bitter melon juice each day to control fluctuations in blood sugar levels. However individuals should be aware that excessive consumption of bitter melon or bitter gourd is linked with the onset of diarrhea, hence their consumption should be limited to two ounces per day.

String Beans to Control
Blood Sugar Levels

Best Food for Diabetes Management: String Beans to Control Elevated Blood Sugar



String beans are another admirable source of natural insulin which helps in the management of diabetes. Consuming tea comprising of string beans can help in the management of diabetes. Further regular consumption of string bean tea is considered to avert and control the complications associated with diabetes which include diabetic foot, diabetic retinopathy and kidney damage. It should be noted that the pods in the kidney beans are loaded with a compound which is similar to insulin, which in turn helps regulate blood sugar levels naturally.

It should always be remembered that diabetes management depends upon a multi-disciplinary approach. Consuming a healthy and wholesome diet is just one important aspect of management of diabetes. Regular exercises, yoga technique and homeopathic management can be beneficial in comprehensive management of diabetes naturally.