A FEW FRUITS AND THEIR HEALTH BENEFITS

We all know we should eat fruit every day. But certain foods can help with certain health problems. Here are just a few of the fruits and their healthy benefits.

• PAPAYA: Contains enzymes that promote digestion.
• PINEAPPLE: Contains enzymes that promote digestion and also acts aa an anti-inflammatory.
• CHERRIES: The juice helps with pain in fingers and toes caused by gout. According to Dr. Earl Mindell, it works by lowering the body's uric acid content.
• BANANAS: Combat the effects of diarrhea, calms discomfort caused by stomach acid and when eaten before bedtime, helps induce sleep.
• Cranberries: Science has confirmed what women have known for years, yes, cranberry juice helps prevent urinary tract infections. Tannins in the juice prevent bacteria from attaching to the cells that line the urinary tract.

This is a partial list. You can look up your favorite fruits to find out what special benefits they contain.

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BENEFITS OF THE SPICE CUMIN

The spice cumin has many benefits and should be used in cooking when possible. Here are some of the documented benefits of cumin:

• Appetite stimulant for those who are sick and need to increase their appetite - especially important for those suffering loss of appetite due to cancer treatments.
• Digestive aid.
• Anti-microbial
• Cumin seeds may slow down the growth of stomach and cervical tumors.
• Studies have shown that toasted cumin seeds are good for an upset stomach and also to relieve cramping.

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LESSEN HEARTBURN

 If you suffer from occasional heartburn you might want to try these diet fixes:

• Barbara Wendland, RD, author of Chronic Heartburn: Managing Acid Reflux and GERD Through Understanding, Diet and Lifestyle, says that keeping portions in check is a simple way for most people to lessen or avoid acid reflux.  She says that eating too much can overfill your stomach and cause discomfort, as can eating too close to bedtime. Did you know it is harder for your body to digest food when you are lying down?
• Lawrence Taw, MD, a UCLA clinical professor, has said that some herbs can lessen heartburn and suggests drinking a cup of chamomile, ginger or licorice tea with your meal.  He went on to say that cold foods and drinks can make the muscles tighten and cause backup that leads to reflux. He suggests that those having a problem with reflux or heartburn avoid things like ice water and frozen yogurt.
• David C. Metz, MD, professor of medicine at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital suggests that GERD smokers should quit smoking and those who are overweight should lose weight.  He says that over-the-counter antacids to neutralize stomach acid can help but if symptoms continue for a couple of weeks, you should see your doctor.
• The professionals say fatty foods such as fried foods, full-fat cheeses, and veggies in lots of oil should be avoided in those who have heartburn. High fat foods are digested more slowly causing the stomach to produce more acid which is the culprit.
• The following acidic culprits should be avoided while suffering with heartburn: chocolate, peppermint, coffee, alcohol, carbonated beverages, tomato sauces, and citrus fruits and juices.

 

CHEWING GUM FOR HEARTBURN?

According to Kings College of London researchers, chewing gum can reduce heartburn-related symptoms.  Chewing gum (sugar-free!) boosts the production of saliva which is an alkaline that helps neutralize stomach acid.   More saliva also means more swallowing.  More swallowing stimulates the muscle contractions that help digest food, according to the researchers.  Also, a piece of hard candy or a lozenge may have the same effect.

Note: This is in reference to mild and occasional heartburn. Severe or constant heartburn is a reason to see your doctor.

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