Celery
has so many nutritional and health benefits, it's earned the title
"functional food." It is rich in vitamins, including folic acid (one
serving provides 9% of your RDA), riboflavin, niacin and vitamin-C, and
is an excellent source of vitamin K.
We all know celery is low in calories and full of dietary fiber. But
did you know that eating celery can help you reduce your blood pressure?
Celery contains a phytochemical called phthalides. Research shows that
an extract made of phthalides will relax the tissues of the artery
walls to increase blood flow and reduce blood pressure. Eating the
whole vegetable also provides a wealth of minerals that regulate blood
pressure like potassium, sodium (the good kind), calcium, manganese,
and magnesium.
Ray Ilg, ND
Raynette Ilg, N.D., is the owner of
Olive
Branch Wellness Center in South Elgin, IL. A Naturopath who earned a
Bachelors of Science in Biological Medicine and then a Doctor of
Naturopathic Medicine from National University of Health Sciences, she
employs Nutritional Guidance, Herbal Medicine, Hydrotherapy, and
Homeopathy in her clinic. Dr. Ray can be contacted via her website,
Olive Branch Wellness Center
Celery
leaves are a rich source of flavonoids such as zeaxanthin, lutein, and
beta-carotene which all have antioxidant, cancer protective and
immune-boosting functions, and can help protect you from lung and oral
cancers. Celery seeds also contain a concentration of many of the
plants beneficial flavonoids, antioxidants and minerals.
But here's the best reason to eat "ants on a log:" New research from
the University of Missouri shows that celery contains luteolin, a
natural compound that can reduce the risk of breast cancer in
post-menopausal women who are on hormonal replacement therapy (HRT puts
women at a higher risk for breast cancer).
Researchers
found that luteolin reduced the blood vessels that feed breast cancer
cells, increasing the rate of the pre-programmed death rate of cancer
cells. Luteolin also inhibited breast cancer cells from developing into
"cancer stem cells" that make cancer more deadly. It shows special
cancer-fighting properties on progestin-driven tumors, the type that
can happen with hormone replacement therapy. Researchers are now
exploring whether luteolin can be given as an injection for those with
progestin-dependent breast cancer.
Luteolin can also help fight leukemia, and thyroid, lung and prostate cancers, and shows promise in fighting colorectal cancer.
So whether you eat it in salad, in soup, with peanut butter, or as a crudité – crunch celery your heart and health's content!
Olive Branch Wellness Center 630-370-7290
The Monthly "Vita - Mini"
B12
B12
is an essential vitamin that is necessary to build blood cells, nerve
tissue, and DNA. It's another critical component of giving us access to
energy! Like many vitamins, the body cannot manufacture B12 so we must
get it through our diet or a supplement.
B12 is one of the few nutrients that cannot be found in plant foods.
The main sources of B12 are animal products like meat, dairy, shellfish
and eggs. That's why vegetarians and vegans need to be extra
careful about taking enough supplemental B12 so that they don't develop
a deficiency. Another group at risk for B12 deficiency are those who've
had bariatric surgery, or those with absorption issues such as Crohn's
disease.
Signs of vitamin B12 deficiency include: numbness or tingling in the
hands or feet, fatigue or weakness, anemia, brain fog and memory loss,
balance problems and a swollen tongue.
A simple blood test can identify whether your B12 levels are optimal.
Watch out! You can still be deficient even if you are eating enough B12
in your foods and supplements. This is because some people are missing
what is called "intrinsic factor" in their gut to help them absorb B12.
Work closely with your health professional if you suspect B12
deficiency, to track whether dietary changes are working, or whether
you need vitamin B12 injections.
Jeana's Cucina
Pumpkin Chia Pudding
Ingredients:
1/2 cup chia seeds
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp allspice
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp ginger
1/4 tsp cardamom
1/8 tsp nutmeg
1 1/2 cups unsweetened coconut milk beverage
1/2 tsp almond extract
15 oz can pumkin puree
Preparation:
Dump & Stir
First~ The chia and 5 dry spices.
Second~ The milk and 2 extracts.
Once they are combined and the spices are dissolved, fold in the pumpkin.
Store, refridgerated, airtight container.
Top with whipped cream, chopped almonds or coconut flakes. (Optional)
|