October 2014

Published 29/10/2014

There are some interesting experiments being done at the moment to assess the value of certain foods and the way they interact within our body, and the effects that they have on our concentration and energy levels.

A Christchurch teenager wanted to test how certain foods would interact on his marks at school.

For 2 days he only ate junk-food – Coco Pops, lollies and cola for breakfast. Cakes and pies for lunch. Soft drinks and sweets for dinner. Then he sat for tests in reading, maths and typing. On the junk food he read 43% slower, typed 50% slower and was 35% slower at solving maths problems than when he had eaten healthy food.

His mother noted that during the two days on junk food, he was irritable, sluggish and more inclined to be depressed.

A New York film director who, for a month ate 3 meals a day of McDonald’s hamburgers recorded similar effects. He put on 12kg, his cholesterol level shot up and his liver started to malfunction. He suffered from headaches, bad moods, and lost interest in sex.

Even one can of coke contains 10 teaspoons of sugar and yet you can see people at the supermarket with cartons of it in their trolley.

Have you ever walked into the supermarket and just taken the time to appreciate the wonderful selection of fruits and vegetables that are offered to us on the shelves? The different colours of the fresh produce are remarkable, and so eye catching, with the added bonus of being so good for you.

Salmon and sardines are high in omega 3 oils and have been proven to be so good for the brain function.

Pure filtered water is a wonder fluid all by itself. Water keeps the skin plumped and takes away excess wrinkles. It helps the body to function smoothly. Such a simple thing to do, drink at least 2 litres a day.

These are some of the foods that help reduce mucous in the sinus and lungs: Onion, garlic, Watercress, Mustard, and Horseradish.

Fresh food should be our medicine, simply cooked and served. Did you know that the humble cucumber can add bulk to aid the bowel action? One to two cucumbers a day can help with constipation. The juice of the cucumber is a great aid in the treatment of hyperacidity, and gastric ulcers.

Health is your wealth

Barbara

Image courtesy of Sira Anamwong / FreeDigitalPhotos.net