Fuelled by Energy drinks, but at what cost?

Super caffeinated energy drinks have surged into popularity over the past decade. Research undertaken in 2005 suggests energy drinks account for approximately £1 in every £5 spent on soft drinks. Modern life has created what we could call an exhaustion epidemic. With many people trying to keep up with impossible work loads, family life, and even internet social networking, we often find ourselves feeling less alert, feeling more tired as the day goes on, and often sleeping less to fit more into the day. It’s not surprising then that millions of people are reaching for pick me up drinks or chemical helpers, often without a second thought about whether they are good or bad for us. This is the first of two articles: this article will discuss the effects energy drinks have on our health, and the second article will explore how nutrition can help with maximising our natural energy, and suggest some less evasive natural alternatives for times when we do need an extra boost.

Worrying trends

Despite the manufacturers of these drinks saying the marketing of these products are targeted at adults, there are an increasing number of young people drinking them regularly, quite often to get them through the day at school. A study of 200 teenagers in 2003 in the US found that the teenagers with a high intake of caffeine were actually less mentally alert than those who did not consume much caffeine. Judy Owens MD (director of the Paediatric Sleep Disorders Centre at Hasbro Children’s Hospital US) points out that consuming these drinks is also likely to reduce the consumption of healthier beverages such as milk and juice, which are needed for children’s growth and development. This trend is indeed worrying as it could be argued that children are more susceptible to developing habits that last a lifetime, and there is a real potential danger of them becoming addicted to these stimulant drinks.

The increasing popularity of mixing energy drinks with alcohol is another worrying trend. The danger in this lies in the fact that the energy drinks are a stimulant while alcohol is a depressant. The stimulant properties can mask the feeling of intoxication, so drinkers feel less drunk and more awake, which can also lead to them drinking much more than the safe limit, or indeed feeling they are capable of driving. While drinkers may feel more in control, studies have reported that motor co-ordination and visual reaction times are just as impaired as when people drink alcohol on its own.

So what are the effects of these drinks on our bodies?

Dr Mark A Kantor from the University of Maryland reporting on CBS news says that a lot of the ingredients of these drinks have not been adequately studied, and we just don’t really know how safe these drinks are. However they are all similar in that they have high levels of caffeine, and often high amounts of (glucose) sugar. Sugar and stimulants both raise our blood sugar levels which gives a temporary boost in energy, but in the long term blood sugar levels can become unstable. One of the reasons for this is that the body becomes less sensitive to the hormone insulin. Insulin is produced by the pancreas and helps glucose to enter the body’s cells where it is used for energy. Regularly drinking these drinks is therefore likely to compromise the body’s natural ability to produce energy, resulting in becoming dependant on stimulants and leading to fatigue and exhaustion.

Stimulants such as caffeine work by triggering the release of three neurotransmitters: dopamine, adrenaline and noradrenalin. As well as this caffeine blocks the receptors for a chemical called adenosine, whose function is to stop dopamine release. With less adenosine activity the levels of dopamine and adrenalin are increased in the body, which boost energy and mood for a short while only. The adrenal glands are partly responsible for the regulation of blood sugar and providing the body with energy, as well as producing adrenalin. When adrenalin is produced in large amounts it triggers what is called the ‘flight or fight’ response. Our blood pressure goes up and glucose enters the blood which then goes to the arms, legs, and head enabling us to fight, run, or think quickly. The purpose of adrenaline is to provide short term energy to deal with any presenting danger. Once the presenting danger has passed, adrenaline production stops, and our energy levels drop resulting in fatigue. Drinking energy drinks will effectively trick our bodies into believing we are in danger, put our bodies under stress, and ultimately lead to our adrenal glands becoming exhausted thus compromising the body’s ability to produce and sustain energy. Over stimulation can also lead to the receptor sites for these neurotransmitters starting to shut down, therefore needing more of the products to have the same effect.

Caffeine is highly addictive and research has shown that drinking as little as 100mg of caffeine a day can lead to withdrawal symptoms, if you were to stop drinking it altogether. It is worth noting this caffeine can come from coffee, tea, and cola as well as from energy drinks. Withdrawal symptoms include headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. If you do consume lots of energy drinks a day, then it may be worth cutting down your intake gradually.

The effects of consuming large quantities of caffeine can include: feeling jittery, anxious, and irritable, raised blood pressure, heart palpitations, and insomnia. For anyone who wakes from not sleeping very well, energy drinks can be seen as an answer to help them through the day; however they are only likely to exacerbate their sleep problems, again leading to less energy not more. The Food Standards Agency also warn of the dangers of consuming too much caffeine in pregnancy which they say can result in babies having a low birth weight and in some cases can cause miscarriage. As a diuretic, caffeine causes our kidneys to remove extra fluid from our bodies. This can lead to dehydration especially in cases where people consume energy drinks while they are exercising and sweating, or when they combine alcohol with these drinks on a night out dancing.

Another popular ingredient of energy drinks is guarana, from the seeds and leaves of the guarana shrub native to Brazil and Uruguay. There is a belief that if something is natural then it is more likely to be good for us, however guarana is naturally high in caffeine and therefore has all the attendant health risks. However fats and oils in the seeds prolong the absorption of caffeine meaning that guarana can have a milder and longer lasting effect.

The cost to our health, of drinking these drinks, certainly does seem very high. Energy drinks stimulate our nervous system, making our bodies believe we are in danger and reacting to this perceived danger (flight or fright). They also stop our body’s natural process of energy production from working as effectively, leading to exhaustion, fatigue and becoming dependant on more and more of these drinks for energy. The vicious cycle of fatigue, drinking energy drinks, dependence on these stimulants, withdrawal and fatigue is a cycle that is very difficult indeed to escape.

“Let food be thy medicine and thy medicine be thy food”
Hippocrates

Note: Information in this article is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor, who should be the first port of call with any of the mentioned health conditions. I am not medically qualified, but have been interested in nutrition since my eldest daughter developed food intolerances almost 20 years ago. I have researched this piece from reputable internet sites and by reading through books such as;

The Food Doctor, Healing foods for mind and body by Vicki Edgson & Ian Marber
Superfoods by Michael Van Straten & Barbara Griggs
Prescription for Nutritional healing 2nd edition by James F Balch M.D & Phyllis A. Balch C.N.C
Food your miracle medicine by Jean Harper
The food pharmacy by Jean Harper
500 of the most important health tips you’ll ever need by Hazel Courteney
Natural Highs by Patrick Holford & Dr Hyla Cass
The Food Doctor Diet by Ian Marber Dip ION (Institute of Optimum Nutrition)

Samhain the festival of Wisdom Sunset 31 October to Sunset 2nd November

Before the advent of clocks and calendars, people were more in tune with nature’s timing; without electrical lighting they woke when the sun rose and slept when it went down, and they followed the cycles of the seasons as opposed to being a slave to the 24/7 hectic lifestyle most of us follow today.

Following the cycles of nature; eight seasonal festivals have traditionally been celebrated throughout Europe, predating Christianity. These festivals are often referred to as sabbats, a word which originates from the Greek work ‘sabatu’ meaning to rest or pause. The English word ‘sabbath’ and the Hebrew ‘shabat’ both also originate from ‘sabatu’ Four of the festivals (the solstices and equinoxes) celebrate the power of the sun and the moon at the time. The other four festivals, are Celtic in origin, and are linked more with the annual cycle of planting and harvesting of crops. Traditionally the festivals also reflect the lifecycle of the gods and goddesses throughout the year.

Samhain (pronounced sow-in) is Gaelic for ‘the summers end’ and is known as the Celtic New Year; it marks the start of the winter, and the beginning of shorter days and longer evenings. It is a time for introspection, reflecting on the past year, looking forward to the future, and possible spiritual growth.

While Samhain has been celebrated for centuries and has its origin in Pagan Celtic traditions, later on it was adopted by Christianity. The modern day Halloween comes from the Christian festival called All Hallows eve. This and the following two days; All Saints and All Souls day (1st and 2nd of November) were for remembering and honouring loved ones who had passed away. This custom still continues today, in Countries such as France Spain and Mexico. In France All Saints day is a public holiday, and it is traditional for people to dress up in finest clothes and visit family graves and decorate them with flowers.

Samhain traditionally celebrated on October 31st is the night when the veil between the spirit world and our world is at its thinnest, and the souls of our ancestors can return to our world. It is a time to celebrate wisdom old and new, when the past and future join together for one night, and the dead could return to warm themselves by the fires of the living. In earlier times families would decorate altars to honour their ancestors, with mementos of those who had passed away and harvest foods such as; pumpkins, apples, and breads. They would also open their windows and place garlic on the window sills to allow the good family dead to enter. It was also believed at this time that some of the living (especially poets) were able to enter the otherworld through doorways at ancient burial mounds or ‘sidhe’ such as; at the Hill of Tara in Ireland.

Also known as the Feast of the dead; death is a central theme of this festival. This does not mean however that it is a morbid event, as the ancient Celts believed death is not a thing to be feared. They valued old age for the wisdom it brings, and saw death as an accepted part of the cycle of life. As with the other Celtic festivals, Samhain was a time for communities to get together and celebrate, which they did by lighting sacred bonfires, sacrificing animals, and bringing harvest food to share in a communal dinner. They would also dress up in animal heads and skins.

Many of the Samhain traditions still continue today such as: the hollowing out of a pumpkin and putting a lighted candle inside. This was traditionally known as a Jack o Lantern: a name which derived from a legendary character called Jack, who upon escaping hell was forced to walk in limbo carrying a hot coal for all eternity. While the veil between the worlds were so thin, the other world could also release fairies and mischievous spirits, and the Jack o Lantern was thought to keep evil spirits away and protect people from harm. Placing the lighted pumpkin on a window sill, facing the road, for 3 days until dusk on the 3rd of November was also believed to welcome home family ancestors. Another theory is that pumpkin lanterns originate from the ancient Celts placing the skulls of their ancestors outside their doors at Samhain.

The practice of trick or treat has also evolved from a time where children used to visit houses, to ask for soul breads to decorate their family altars (bread foods were thought to a favourite of the spirits). Nowadays children visit houses collecting sweets for themselves to eat, which are certainly not intended to honour the dead. Another belief is that at Samhain, fairies would take advantage of the thin veil, and dress up as beggars, visiting houses asking for handouts. If they received food people would be rewarded, but if they slammed the doors in the fairies faces they would find out how mischievous fairies could be.

In the agricultural wheel of the year Samhain marks the final harvest, when animals were slaughtered, food was stored away for the long months ahead, and activity moved from outdoors to indoors by the warmth of the fire. Fire played an important part in the rituals that took place at Samhain. Cattle would be brought down from the hills and passed between two fires to purify and cleanse them, as well as to protect them from any evil spirits that may be lurking while the veil between the worlds was so thin. It was believed to be bad luck to take all of the harvest, as something should always be left to keep the connection between the land and its produce throughout the long winter. Protection from evil was very important to the ancient Celts, especially at Samhain and Beltane (the two turning points of the year) when it was thought that the spirit world was very close at hand, and these were days of much evil activity.

Samhain was believed to be the night when the God of the old year dies and returns to the underworld. It is reported that the goddess enters to be reunited with the god (for three days only), returning on the third day of the festival to prepare for his rebirth at the Winter Solstice.
Throughout the wheel of the year the Celtic triple goddess goes through 3 stages (virgin, mother and crone). The Goddess is now in the crone aspect. She is not to be feared as she is the same goddess who gave us life in the summer. She has moved through being a maiden/virgin ready for a sexual union with the god at Beltane (May 1st), and the earth mother, recognised by the making of corn dollies at Lughnassadh (August 1st). She is the now the older woman wise but stern, and has much knowledge she can share with us. She comes in the form of Cerridwen, Hecate, Arianrhod and Persephone among others and is often symbolised by the wise old owl who is not blinded by darkness and travels by night.

Many of the traditions of Samhain have been incorporated into Halloween today such as; placing pumpkin lanterns in windows, and dressing up and getting together with friends and family to celebrate. However it could be argued that the origins of Samhain have become a little lost. As we dress up as witches, vampires, and scary monsters it could be said our celebrations today illustrate our fascination with the macabre, evil and death. Samhain is however a celebration of the cycle of life. It celebrates the renewal and rebirth not only of the earth, but also of the gods and goddesses and of ourselves. Samhain reminds us death is not to be feared, and that it is from death that life emerges. As the veil between the spirit world and ours is its thinnest, Samhain is an opportunity to honour, remember and reconnect with loved ones who have passed away. It is celebration of ancient wisdom, a time to reflect on the past, and look forward into the future.

If you found this article interesting then scroll down through Jax writer’s spot for: “The wheel of the year. Forgotten festivals in a modern world” posted on Wednesday January 7th, an article on Imbolc; Wednesday February the 18th, “Hurray, hurray, it’s the first of May, Outdoor mating starts today. The celebration of Beltane” posted on Wednesday April 29th, and “Lughnassadh The festival of the corn harvest” posted on Wednesday August 5th.

Jax Writers Spot is going monthly

Due to now being in employment, articles will now be posted up on Jax Writers Spot on the first Wednesday of every month, the next one being in the first week of November.

Tales of Cornish Fairies

It could be said that there are not many people today who believe in fairies, however as recently as the 19th century, there was a strong belief in the little people especially in Celtic Britain. Many of the stories of old were passed on by word of mouth, often by travelling story tellers, and because they weren’t written down many of these tales have been lost. Maybe losing this part of our history is why many people now choose to dismiss beliefs of old as mere superstition, however there is no reason why our beliefs are any more credulous than our ancestors.

A bit more about fairies
There are many contradictions in tales about fairies. It has been said fairies are seen only in the twinkling of an eye between one blink and the next, and time can pass so slowly that in a single second many things can happen. Other tales have suggested that people have spent what they thought to be only a few hours in the company of small folk, and then leave their company and find years have passed. Many fairies are said to be the masters of magic and could appear and disappear at will. Another common story was that people could see fairies by rubbing a magic ointment on their eyes which was made by the fairies themselves.

It has been suggested that fairies are the spirits of people who inhabited the earth and weren’t good enough to get into heaven but also not bad enough to enter hell. While others believe they are ‘elementals’; creatures made only of earth, air fire or water. One common belief is that fairies are beautiful winged miniature creatures; however they can also be can be of human size and hideously ugly. It is also suggested that many fairies are not as friendly as we would believe, they can be incredibly mischievous, and are known for their thieving. Stealing human babies ‘Cradle snatching’ was also a fairy vice, and in place of a stolen baby they would often leave a changeling, sometimes a fairy child, or a withered old man or sometimes just a piece of wood that would appear to be alive just for a moment.

Other fairies however could be very friendly. One reported fairy activity was to leave presents which may appear as rubbish but would turn into gold and jewels. However there were also reports of them leaving gifts of gold and jewels, which would then turn into rubbish. Another common tale was of fairy’s seeking help from humans, by leaving their broken shovels or stools for people to fix. They would pay them back for their help by leaving gifts or bestowing good luck on them.

Many different kinds of fairies have also been described and this is indeed the case in Cornwall:

The Spriggans of Cornwall are said to guard treasure buried beneath stones. It is said they can change shape at will. They are said to be extremely mischievous, and if a children was taken, a house was robbed or cattle went missing it was thought to be the work of the Spriggans.

The Piskies are also rather playful and naughty. It was said one of their favourite pastimes was to entice people into bogs by appearing as a light or a lantern that people would follow. They would also cause farmers trouble by chasing their cattle and riding their colts. They enjoyed their mischief making and a popular saying in Cornwall was ‘to laugh like a piskie.’

The Browneys are said to be kindly and good. They took up home in families houses, where they were devoted to helping out with odd jobs, and household chores, and generally caring for their human hosts. They were experts at hiding and could make themselves invisible. It was said they were often naked or just wore a few rags, and they would move on if they were given a gift of clothes.

The Buccas or Knockers were the sprites of the mines and were said to be the souls of people who had once worked the tin mines of Cornwall. It was said they were cursed and unable to rest due to the wicked practices as tinners.

The Small people as they were known are said to closely resemble the elves of Scandinavia. They are a playful bunch however if they knew human eyes could see then they were quite timid. They were said to be very friendly and aid people to whom they took a fancy.

Robert Hunt was born in Devonport (Plymouth) in 1807. As a young man he moved away to London to work as a physician, however after suffering a breakdown he came back to the West Country to recover. As a child he had visited parts of Cornwall with his Mother, and had kept a notebook of tales people had told him about encounters with fairy folk. Unfortunately since his childhood he had lost the notebook, so while he was convalescing he set about visiting magical settings in Cornwall and Dartmoor, and talking to locals and recording these tales again so that they wouldn’t be lost forever. Thirty years after his first collection of stories, he published the book ‘Popular Romances of the West of England’ in 1865.

These stories are from some of the tales he recorded in this book:

Tales of St Levan Fairies
Many years have passed since the green outside Trezidder gate was a favourite place for fairy folk to hold their fairs. It was said you could see evidence of their celebrations such as; trodden down rings in the grass made by the fairies dancing.

A man named Mr Trezillian was returning on horseback form Penzance late one evening and noticed little folk dancing round and round, and could not resist joining them. However as soon as he got off his horse, the fairies were all upon him and he felt as if they were sticking needles into him. It was believed that small folk could not harm humans if they wore a garment of clothing inside out, and it was common practice for people travelling at night to wear their coats inside out, for this very reason. Thinking quickly Mr Trezillian turned his glove inside out and as soon as it hit the ground the small folk had disappeared. However they still led him a merry dance and he wandered around all night unable to find his horse, until the morning when he found him only a few yards from where he had left him.

In Penberth Cove there lived an old woman who was bed-ridden. Her relatives would drop in every so often and help out with a few chores and leave food, however as soon as they left small folk who were very fond of the old woman, would come to amuse her. They would dance around the rafters, ride on mice, and swing on the cobwebs. She described the small men as dressed in green with a red or blue cap decorated with a feather, and she described the women as bright and very saucy with the men folk. They wore hooped petticoats, feathers, and fans. As one party of small folk got tired and left, another party would come to frolic and party, and so she was kept company through the day and the night.

Cherry of Zennor
On the Cliff side of Trerreen in Zennor there once lived a family in a little two roomed hut. Old Honey and his wife had many children, and while they were happy and healthy, they were very poor. They had a little garden and collected limpet shells and periwinkles so they were able to eat fish and potatoes most days. One of their daughters was called Cherry who was full of frolic and mischief. However in her teenage years she became discontented with her lot, as she had wished for a new dress so she could look as smart as other girls when she went to the local fair. At sixteen she decided to travel to the ‘low countries’ (the valley parishes) to seek work. Old Honey who had wanted her to seek service nearer to home to please her mother, eventually gave her his blessing and Cherry tied a few belongings in a bundle and set off on the road leading to Ludgvan and Gulval. As she lost sight of Trerren she felt disheartened, and when she came to the cross roads at Lady Downs she sat down and cried, and decided she would go home and make the best of it.

However as she dried her tears and looked up she saw a gentleman. She was surprised to see him, as she had not seen him moments before and surely would have seen him approaching. The gentleman bade her good morning and inquired about where she was going. Cherry replied she had left home to seek service, but had decided to head back home instead. Upon which the gentleman replied he could not believe his luck as he had left home that very morning to seek a girl to keep house for him. He explained he was a widower and there would be little work to do other than look after his son and milk the cow. He could see that Cherry was handsome and cleanly and asked if she would take the position to which she agreed.

He told her he lived a short way off in the ‘low countries’ and they set off along the road. The gentlemen talked so kindly that Cherry didn’t notice how much time and distance had passed, until she found herself walking along a beautiful lane with the sunshine glimmering through the trees where she could see and smell the perfume from sweet briars and honeysuckle. They crossed a stream of water as clear as crystal and the lane began descend downwards and get darker and narrower. She was a little nervous about where she was going but felt she could trust this kindly gentleman. After walking a little while longer they came across a gate and the gentleman said ‘Cherry my dear, this is the place we will live in’.

The gate opened to the most beautiful garden Cherry had ever seen. There were flowers of every colour, fruits of every kind hanging from trees, and birds singing the sweetest songs she had ever heard. As they entered the little boy greeted them, pleased to see his father. From his size he looked about two or three, but had the look of age about him. His eyes were brilliant and piercing. Moments later an old dry-boned woman appeared, seized the child and took him away to the house grumbling and moaning, and gave Cherry a look that was most disconcerting. The gentleman explained this was Aunt Prudence; his late wife’s grandmother. She would only remain until Cherry was acquainted with the work, as she was old and ill tempered.

Aunt Prudence took charge of Cherry, and directed her to her chamber where the boy would also sleep. She was instructed to keep her eyes closed even if she was not sleeping so she wouldn’t see things she may not like. She had to be up at sunrise and take the boy to a spring in the garden where she would rub ointment on his eyes which was to be found in a crystal box in a nearby rock. She was warned however that she must never touch her own eyes with the ointment. She was then to call the cow, and take a bucketful of milk ready for the boy’s breakfast.

On the first morning Cherry did as she was instructed and went to the spring which flowed from a granite rock which was covered in moss and ivy. She milked the cow and returned to the kitchen to be told of her daily duties. After a hearty breakfast she was informed she was to keep to the kitchen where she would make butter, scald the milk and wash and clean. Aunt Prudence kept her watchful eye on her all the time and warned her not to be curious, not to explore the house and try and open any locked doors. On the second day her master required her to help in the garden picking fruit and weeding and she was pleased to get away from Aunt Prudence for a while. She got on so well with her master who treated her very kindly, and would kiss her to show how pleased he was with her.

A few days passed and Aunt Prudence took Cherry to parts of the house she had not visited. They entered a room with a glass like floor and all around were people big and small turned to stone. Cherry had heard tales in Zennor of conjurers who turned people to stone, and was a little scared as she thought they may, at any moment, wake up and eat her. She was set the task of polishing a box which looked like a coffin while Aunt Prudence called out at her to rub harder. She rubbed with such vigour she almost upset the box, and this made such a noise Cherry collapsed. On hearing the noise the master appeared. He was very angry with Aunt Prudence for taking Cherry into this room and sent her away from the house. He then took Cherry to the kitchen and gave her a drink to recover her senses. Upon waking she could not remember much apart from knowing there was something fearful in the other part of the house. After Aunt Prudence had left she was so happy and contented in her work that a year passed as if it was only a day.

Occasionally her Master would take leave for a season and when he was at home she was sure she heard him talking to the stone people. Although Cherry had everything she could desire, she felt she wanted to know more of the place and the people. She knew that the ointment she rubbed on the son’s eye made them bright and felt he saw things she didn’t so she decided she would try some. So the next morning after milking the cow she sent the boy to pick some flowers and rubbed some ointment on her eyes. However this made her eyes feel as if they were burning, so she rushed to the pool to splash some water on them, and was amazed at what she saw.

At the bottom of the water were hundreds of little people playing, and there was her master as small as them joining in with their play. Everything seemed different; she saw little people everywhere hiding in the flowers, and running through blades of grass. The master would not show himself in the day but would return at night as the handsome gentleman she had known before. Sometimes he would go into the room with the stone people, and now Cherry was able to hear the most beautiful music. Day after day passed until her curiosity got the better of her and she went to have a peek through the keyhole. She saw her master dancing and singing with lots of ladies, and felt especially jealous when she saw him kiss a lady dressed in such finery and robes.

The next day her master stayed at home and asked Cherry to help him gather fruit, however this time when he went to kiss her, she slapped him in the face, and told him to go and kiss the small people instead. So her master discovered she had used the ointment, and said that she must leave. He could not have a spy working for him. He gathered her clothes into a bundle and bade her to follow him. They walked for miles uphill through narrow lanes, and when they came to level ground the sun was rising. He kissed her and said although she had been punished for her curiosity, if she behaved herself he would come and see her at Lady Downs, and then he disappeared. She found herself sat on a granite stone in the middle of a desolate moor instead of the enchanted garden she had become accustomed to. Her parents had thought she was dead and were very pleased to see her return. She told the tale of her time away, and while she never varied her story, people doubted her and believed she was not right in the head for a long time afterwards. Cherry never gave up on seeing her Master again, and up until her death could be found wandering to Lady Downs on Moonlit nights.

The ABC of Superfoods 'C'

This article is the third in a series, looking at the ABC of foods which have been deemed super-foods. Eating a healthy balanced diet involves eating a variety of different foods including; fruit and vegetables, wholemeal and wholegrain foods, and protein such as fish, meat, eggs and lentils, and some milk and dairy foods.

Cashew nuts
Contains: copper, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, folic acid, thyptophan, and phosphorous.

Although cashews have a lower fat content than most other nuts, however around three quarters of their fat content is unsaturated fatty acids, and much of this fatty acid content is oleic acid (also found in olive oil) which has been shown to be very beneficial for heart health.

Cashew nuts have a high copper content. Copper is an essential component of the enzyme; ‘superoxide dismutase’ which plays an important role in the production of energy, making cashews a good food to eat for extra vitality. Copper also plays a role in the body’s uptake of iron, the elimination of free radicals, as well as being needed in the development of bone and connective tissue. Copper is also needed by an enzyme involved in the flexibility of blood vessels, bones, and joints.

Cashew nuts are also high in magnesium which works together with its calcium content to keep bones healthy. Although needed for bones, calcium can collect in the soft tissues and cause arthritic pain. Magnesium promotes the utilisation of calcium preventing calcium malabsorption, which can cause problems such as; osteoporosis, arthritis, and pre menstrual symptoms.

Cabbage
Contains; iron, chlorophyll, calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorous, beta-carotene, folic acid, iodine, vitamins C, E & K

Cabbage is abundant and inexpensive, and has been the subject of much medical research. The healing powers of cabbage have been known about for hundreds of years. Cabbage contains anti cancer compounds, and is also reported to stimulate the immune system, killing bacteria and viruses. Cabbage contains mucilaginous substances similar to the mucous membrane of the gut and stomach. Eaten raw, it detoxifies the stomach and upper colon, and improves digestion.

Cabbage is a good food for people suffering from anaemia as it contains high levels of iron as well as chlorophyll. Chlorophyll absorbs energy from the sun to facilitate photosynthesis in plants, it is known as the green blood of plants which is chemically almost identical to the haemoglobin in human blood. It is claimed chlorophyll in humans has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and wound healing properties. It is suggested chlorophyll is a powerful detoxifier and can help with the uptake and delivery of oxygen around our bodies.

Most of the studies into the therapeutic effects of cabbage have been observed when people eat raw cabbage. With cooking many of these nutrients are lost.

Carrots
Contains: calcium, Magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, and beta-carotene

If you look at a sliced Carrot it looks a bit like the human eye. It’s almost as if nature is telling us something, and science has shown that carrots can enhance blood flow to the eyes. Carrots have a high carotenoid content. Carotenoids are natural pigments which are responsible for the bright colours of various fruits and vegetables. Beta carotene in particular has powerful antioxidant properties and can help neutralise free radicals and prevent premature aging. Beta carotene is transformed into Vitamin A which helps prevent night blindness, cataracts and other eye problems.

Carrots are also an excellent detoxifier, and can promote a healthy liver and digestive tract. In traditional medicine a puree of cooked carrots is said to be a perfect cure for infant diarrhoea, and a two day fast taking nothing but raw carrot juice and water is recommended for jaundice and liver problems.

Celery
Contains: beta carotene, folic acid, vitamin B3, potassium and sodium

Celery was used for its medicinal properties as far back as the 9th century BC, and it wasn’t until the middle ages that it was even considered it could be used as a food. According to Hippocrates celery helps calm the nerves, and was used in traditional medicine to lower blood pressure. Compounds within celery are reported to lower the concentrations of stress hormones, and celery contains calming nutrients such as niacinimide which can help improve sleep. Celery also contains ‘coumarins’, which have reported anti cancer properties.

Nature may be trying to tell us something again, as celery could be said to look a bit like bones, and they are indeed a good food to eat for bone strength. Bones contain a high proportion of sodium, as does celery. If you don't get enough sodium in your diet, the body will use up supplies from the bones, thus making them weak. Celery is also a good food for arthritis as it is reported to prevent calcium deposits around the joints.

Celery has a strong effect on the kidneys, helping to eliminate wastes via urine. The vitamins and minerals in celery are much more concentrated in the seeds (which can be brought in health food shops), and have been widely used as a diuretic. Celery is rich in potassium and sodium both of which help stimulate urine production, regulate fluid balance and therefore generally helps the body get rid of excess fluid. The seeds can be boiled and drank as a tea for any problems resulting from poor elimination such as gout and rheumatism.

Chicken
Contains: tryptophan, selenium, niacin (vitamin B3), sodium, magnesium, potassium, vitamins: A, B6, & K

Chicken is a good source of protein which is a major source of amino acids; required by the body to be able to rebuild. The essential amino acids can only be derived from animal and plant sources of protein. Being lower in fat (skinless) chicken is a healthy alternative to red meat, however intensively farmed chicken may not be as nutritious as free range and/or organic chicken. The soil association suggests that farming methods can make a significant difference to levels of nutrients in chicken, and this has now prompted the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and the Department of Health to fund more research in this area.

Chicken is suggested to be a good food to prevent age related conditions, such as bone loss. Studies such as the Framingham Osteoporosis Study, which studied bone loss in men and women aged 70 to 90 over a four year period; found that people with a higher protein intake lose less of their bone density than people with a low protein intake. Chicken is also a good source of niacin. Research has also been done suggesting that Niacin can provide protection against age-related cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease.

The old adage about chicken soup being a good remedy against colds is a saying we have all grown up with. One of the reasons this can be said to be true is that it helps to break up the mucus during a cold and it is also reported to be a mild antibiotic. Chicken also has a high selenium content which research has shown can help promote a healthy immune system. A study undertaken at the University of Nebraska concluded that chicken soup with vegetables may have an anti-inflammatory effect and can ease symptoms of respiratory tract infections such as congestion, sore throats and coughs.

“Let food be thy medicine and thy medicine be thy food”
Hippocrates

Note: Information in this article is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor, who should be the first port of call with any of the mentioned health conditions. I am not medically qualified, but have been interested in nutrition since my eldest daughter developed food intolerances almost 20 years ago. I have researched this piece from reputable internet sites and by reading through books such as;

The Food Doctor, Healing foods for mind and body by Vicki Edgson & Ian Marber
Superfoods by Michael Van Straten & Barbara Griggs
Prescription for Nutritional healing 2nd edition by James F Balch M.D & Phyllis A. Balch C.N.C
Food your miracle medicine by Jean Harper
The food pharmacy by Jean Harper
500 of the most important health tips you’ll ever need by Hazel Courteney

Happiness

For one week only I am posting up something a bit different; a story I wrote a while ago. Any comments will be gratefully received.

Jane sat down on the park bench and cried. The miracle of life surrounding her meant nothing at that time. She was on the verge of giving up; she’d been relying on false hope, and now came the realisation it wasn’t going to happen. Days of wandering the park and the streets around her house had not been successful; it was time to give up on her quest.

It wasn’t very often Jane got so upset. She looked up at the trees through a blur of tears. She felt their loss, bare and exposed to the wild winter. There was hope for them, their leaves would return. Brownie wouldn’t return, not now, too much time had passed. Right, she thought, this is silly, she wiped the tears away and stood up. It’s not the end of the world; life goes on. Come on you stupid woman pull yourself together. I’ve still got Magic.

She felt the crunch of the frost as she walked, and the chill of the wind freeze her tears. She imagined Brownie hurt, lost, lying somewhere, cold and miserable. As she started to cross the road, a car driving much too fast sped past her, with loud, so called, music blaring out of the window. Bloody boy racers she thought, angry with their lack of responsibility driving that fast. She imagined Brownie, run over and lying dead somewhere.

Back at home, Jane went to wash her face and freshen up a bit. The strong emotions had exhausted her, so she settled down on her favourite chair. Magic jumped up on her knee; she was white with black markings, younger than Brownie. She was a playful and curious young cat. She loved exploring; she had a belief she could get anywhere she wanted to go. She would perch on the narrowest back of a chair and jump up to the top of the bookshelf. If you left a box out, or a cupboard door open, she’d be in there like a flash. She was also very loving and sociable, always acknowledging, and coming over to say hello, when anyone appeared.

Jane loved her cats, as she looked down at Magic, she began to feel better. While she stroked her, Magic closed her eyes and purred blissfully. Magic’s feelings of contentment, rubbed off on Jane, and she smiled. Her cats made her feel happy and loved. Jane talked to her cats, she could share her feelings with cats, more than she could with her husband. They wouldn’t put her down, tell her she was stupid; they would just be there for her.

She’d been married to Alan for 28 years. He was an accountant, and earned enough money, so Jane didn’t have to go out to work. Alan didn’t like deviating from his routine, and liked everything done in a particular way. He liked his tea made in a teapot, with just the right amount of milk, and exactly ¾ of a teaspoon of sugar. Jane had spent most of her life being the perfect wife. Every day she woke up before Alan, prepared his breakfast and packed lunch, woke him up with a cup of tea, and spent the rest of the day cleaning.

He would always tell her if something was wrong, and point out what needed doing around the house. He liked a tidy, organised house, after all he did work very hard to provide everything for the both of them. Jane had nothing to complain about, she had a fairly easy life; Alan looked after her. Being on her own all day she valued her cats, they were her companions, they didn’t ask for anything, she feed them and looked after them because she wanted to, not because they demanded it.

Brownie was nine, a rather chubby chocolate box brown cat. He was very affectionate with Jane, but was not a people cat like Magic. If anyone visited, he would wake up, stretch, and grudgingly climb the stairs in search of some peace and quiet. Lately, before his disappearance, he’d taken to sleeping on the toilet seat, or in the basin in the bathroom. Jane never had any children, and she felt the cats were her baby’s. She’d had Brownie since he was a kitten and she loved him dearly.

Looking up at the clock, Jane realised it was four, and she hadn’t done anything about dinner. Alan would be back soon, and he liked his dinner ready when he got in. Magic followed her to the kitchen and meowed at the back door to go out. Jane let her out, and got on with gathering her ingredients. Cottage pie tonight, she thought, comfort food. She had brought some fresh brussel sprouts, from the farm shop yesterday. They would go well with it.

Jane thought about the evening ahead. It was always the same, they would eat, Alan would sit down with his paper, while Jane cleared up in the kitchen. Then about eight they would settle down and watch countdown, which Jane taped every day. They didn’t seem to have much to talk about nowadays. Alan would talk about colleagues at the office. Jane would talk about the adventures Magic got herself into, or the new odd place Brownie had taken to sleeping. He wasn’t really too interested in the cats, and she wasn’t really interested in his work.

While she was chopping up some onions, she heard another meow, this time at the window. Washing her hands, she laughed, silly old Magic she thought she’s so scatty, she only just went out. As she opened the window, which had steamed up, she saw it wasn’t Magic. It took her a moment to register. She pulled Brownie in hugging him close to her. Brownie purred and looked up at her, his eyes seemed to say I missed you too. After a big cuddle, Brownie jumped down and made his way to the front room and settled down to sleep on the sofa. It was almost as if he hadn’t been away. The last three weeks didn’t matter now, Brownie was home. Jane was happy.

Message for my readers: I have been away for a while due to going away on a couple of holidays and writing job applications and attending job interviews. If I do end up finding work I may have to start posting articles monthly instead of fortnightly. I will of course keep you all informed.

Aloe Vera. Nature's Treasure Chest

Often promoted as a miracle plant and natural healer, the health benefits of Aloe Vera have been well documented for many centuries. An Egyptian papyrus dated 1500BC discovered in 1862, was the earliest mention of the therapeutic effects of Aloe Vera. Egyptian Queens used Aloe Vera, as part of their beautifying rituals for its moisturising qualities. It is also thought that Alexander the Great conquered the island of Socrotra in the Indian Ocean, where Aloe Vera grew, so he could use it to treat his soldier’s wounds. Throughout history many people have had a lot to say about Aloe Vera, including Christopher Columbus (1451 – 1506) who said:

"Four vegetables are indispensable for the well being of man:
Wheat, the grape, the olive and aloe.
The first nourishes him, the second raises his spirit,
The third brings him harmony, and the fourth cures him"

Mahatma Gandhi (1869 – 1948) when asked what helped sustain him through his fasts replied:

“It was my unshakeable faith in God, my simple and frugal lifestyle, and the Aloe whose benefits I discovered upon my arrival in South Africa at the end of the nineteenth century".

Aloe Vera flourishes in warm and dry environments, and although it looks more like a cactus it is actually a member of the Lily family. It has the ability to stay moist by closing its pores to prevent moisture being lost. While there are over 200 varieties of Aloe, it is the ‘Aloe Barbadenisis Miller’ variety known as Aloe Vera, which is used for its medicinal qualities. The gel from the inner part of the leaf is extracted to make the Aloe Vera gel and liquid available today.

Aloe Vera is a powerhouse of nutritional compounds, with 75 vitamins, minerals, enzymes and amino acids being so far identified by scientists. It seems to be the synergistic way the nutrients work together that gives Aloe Vera its healing qualities. As well as a long list of nutrients, Aloe Vera contains seven of the eight ‘essential’ amino acids which the human body needs but cannot manufacture itself. Amino Acids are the building blocks of proteins and are important for every function of the body, especially brain function.

An American nutritionist; Dr Bruce Hedendal suggests the key to Aloe Vera’s healing powers is due to its high content of long-chain sugars known as mucopolysaccharides (MPS), which he says are as essential to the body as bricks are to a house. There has been a lot of research into Aloe Vera, with some studies being more conclusive than others. However the health benefits of Aloe Vera reported below have been witnessed and promoted by Nutritionists, Alternative therapists, and Medical practitioners all over the world.

Much research has supported the claims that Aloe Vera is especially beneficial for digestive health. Dr. Jeffrey Bland of the Linus Pauling Institute of Science and Medicine in California found that Aloe Vera promoted movement of food through the bowel, improved bowel regularity, normalised the PH balance in the gut, and reduced yeast content in the digestive tract. It also aids protein digestion, and the absorption of nutrients. Aloe Vera has been promoted by nutritionists as a useful remedy for a number of digestive complaints including; acid indigestion, candida, colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

For over 300 years the gel has been used internally, in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas and the Northern states of Mexico, for the treatment of ulcers. Studies undertaken by clinically experienced practitioners have supported this, but have not been conclusive enough to make a claim Aloe Vera can prevent and help heal ulcers.

Another well researched area of Aloe Vera’s health benefits are its healing properties. It’s a natural antiseptic, antibiotic, and has been found to aid cell regeneration, which makes it a powerful healing agent for both internal and external wounds. A study by Dr Ivan Danhof, a leading expert on Aloe Vera, who has acted as a consultant to the US Food and Drug Administration, noted that Aloe Vera stimulates the uptake of calcium and phosphorus, which can aid the healing of broken bones. Aloe Vera has also been found to be anti-inflammatory and can soothe and relieve muscular pain and sprains, as well as being very effective for burns and rashes. Many alternative therapists advocate its use internally and externally for conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

Aloe Vera gel is also an extremely effective moisturiser which works in two ways. Firstly it has the ability to carry moisture and nutrients down through all the layers of the skin, and secondly it creates a barrier which prevents the moisture from escaping. As well as this it has anti-ageing qualities. Dr Danhof investigated these claims, and found that Aloe Vera increased the production of ‘fibroblast’ cells found in the skin, which in turn stimulate the production of collagen, thus keeping the skin firm and supple.

As if this amazing plant doesn’t do enough Aloe Vera can have a positive effect on the immune system. There has been much scientific evidence which suggests Aloe Vera contains substances which are active both in stimulating the growth of white blood cells which ingest harmful bacteria, as well as stimulating the formation of antibodies.

Aloe Vera has been one of the most studied of natural ingredients, with 3000 articles published about it since the 1920’s. There have been encouraging results obtained when looking at its effect on cancer and AIDS, however they are not considered conclusive as most of the studies have been done on animals. These studies should not be dismissed altogether though as Aloe Vera’s powerful anti-viral properties, and its ability to enhance immune cell production, may certainly also help the body fight against AIDS, and certain cancers.

Aloe Vera is clearly a plant with a wide range of health benefits; it supports the immune system, has anti-inflammatory properties, boosts cell growth, accelerates tissue healing, aids the digestive system, as well as providing a rich source of nutrients. It is certainly a useful addition to anyone’s first aid kit, or indeed their daily diet as a general health tonic.

With so many Aloe Vera products available today to ensure quality there are a few pointers to look out for. The Aloe gel should be listed as the first ingredient, steer clear of any products that state ‘aqua’ as the first ingredient as they are likely to be made from re-constituted powder. Also check the gel or liquid is in a completely sealed container, and lastly look out for the official IASC (International Aloe Science Council) certification on the package.


Please note I am not medically qualified, however I have been interested in nutrition and alternative remedies for around 20 years, and I have done a lot of research into this area of interest.

For more information on Aloe Vera look at:

The International Aloe Science Council’s website where you can find links to certified suppliers at: http://www.iasc.org/index.html

Aloe Vera Nature’s legendary healer by Alasdair Barcroft Sovenier press

Internal uses of Aloe Vera by Dr Ivan E Danhof Ph.D M.D

Due to Jax Writer's Spot still being on a summer break, this is an article which I originally wrote and posted up in 2007.

August 1st Lughnassadh The festival of the Corn harvest

Before the advent of clocks and calendars, people were more in tune with nature’s timing; without electrical lighting they woke when the sun rose and slept when it went down, and they followed the cycles of the seasons as opposed to being a slave to the 24/7 hectic lifestyle most of us follow today.

Following the cycles of nature; eight seasonal festivals have traditionally been celebrated throughout Europe, predating Christianity. These festivals are often referred to as sabbats, a word which originates from the Greek work ‘sabatu’ meaning to rest or pause. The English word ‘sabbath’ and the Hebrew ‘shabat’ both also originate from ‘sabatu’ Four of the festivals (the solstices and equinoxes) celebrate the power of the sun and the moon at the time. The other four festivals, are Celtic in origin, and are linked more with the annual cycle of planting and harvesting of crops. Traditionally the festivals also reflect the lifecycle of the gods and goddesses throughout the year.

The Celtic festival of Lughnassadh (pronounced loo-nus-uh) is the festival of the Corn harvest. As with the other Celtic festivals it recognises nature’s cycle of life, death and rebirth. It is celebrated at the time of the year when the plants of spring wither and drop their seeds or fruit, for us to use as well as to ensure future crops. This day marked the start of the harvest cycle, when grains would be the first crop to be harvested.

Harvesting would then continue up until Samhain (approximately three months away). Even though August has some of the hottest days of the year, autumn is just around the corner, and as squirrels are collecting and storing nuts, similarly this is a time to start collecting produce, and save and preserve them for over the winter months. It is believed that the grain dying is necessary to ensure the rebirth of the land, and to give us life.

On the first day of August small loaves of bread would be baked, from the grain, and given as gifts. The resulting loaves were considered sacred by early agricultural communities, and they were offered in rituals, to give thanks for the abundance of crops throughout the year. It was thought an abundant crop would be a result of successful Beltane rituals. The theme of fertility and reproduction is still recognised in the Lughnassadh festivities to ensure the rest of the harvest is bountiful.

Lughnassadh is named after the Celtic god Lugh, a name which means ‘light’ or ‘shining’, whose light begins to dwindle as the days grow shorter and the nights grow longer. Some reports suggest Lughnassadh marks the beginning of the death of Lugh, and that the bread that is baked symbolises the body of the god, which is then eaten to nourish the living.

As with many of the Celtic festivals which predated Christianity, the church has assimilated many of these age old traditions into their own faith. The Christian thanksgiving celebrations are an example of this; where bread is blessed, becomes the body of god, and is eaten to nourish the faithful. Since medieval times Lughnassadh has also become known by its Christian name of Lammas or Loafmass.

However in an attempt to win people over from the ‘old traditional ways’ the church changed many stories around to suit their faith, and thus created confusion surrounding the origins of Lughnassadh. The story telling tradition of the Celts was mainly an oral one, and many stories were lost after Christianity became more dominant, as the worship of Celtic gods and goddesses was forbidden. However in Ireland the church did not have such a big influence until much later and many old stories were preserved. Scholars were able to translate some of the old myths as far back as twelfth century.

According to these Irish myths it is suggested the festival isn’t about Lugh’s death at all, but it actually honours Lugh’s foster mother; ‘Taillte’ or ‘Tailtiu’ who died from exhaustion after clearing a forest in order to cultivate the land. It was thought by honouring the sacrifice Talitiu made, this would ensure Lugh would not be displeased, and therefore not neglect or destroy the crops.

One practice that has survived from the harvest celebrations is the making of a ‘corn dolly’ symbolising the Earth mother, which was made from the last corn sheaf harvested. These corn dollies would be hung up over fireplaces in people’s houses. It was thought that the corn spirit lived amongst the crops and when the last grain was harvested it was effectively homeless. To preserve this spirit, corn dollies with hollow insides were made for the spirit to sleep in through the winter. They would rest in the dolly until they were ploughed into the first furrow of the new season.

Other traditional Lughnassadh celebrations include a party or a dance known as the ‘Harvest home’. This celebration was portrayed in Thomas Hardy’s 1874 novel ‘Far from the Madding crowd’. Markets and fairs where people could sell their produce, and get together with friends and family, was also a big part of the harvest celebrations.

Lughnassadh was considered a good time of year for handfastings: where trial marriages could be entered into for a year and a day. Young couples would simply join hands through a holed stone, sometimes having their hands tied together, and a year later they could either choose to renew their vows, or stand back to back and walk away from the marriage.

In the modern world many of us live our lives at a great speed; we stay awake after dark, and we eat foods not in season. It could be said we have become out of balance with the natural rhythms of the earth. There is no need nowadays to be aware of the rising and setting times of the sun. However it can be argued that sowing, growing, harvesting, and resting, is just as important for our ‘selves’ as it is for the earth. Lughnassadh is the celebration of the harvest: the gods/goddesses of the harvest are in their prime, but are beginning to wane and know they will die, but as they always do they will return with great vigour in the summer next year. The old Celtic festivals recognise and celebrate life death and rebirth, not only in the life of gods and goddesses and the agricultural year, but also in our own lives.


If you found this article interesting then scroll down through Jax writer’s spot for: “The wheel of the year. Forgotten festivals in a modern world” posted on Wednesday January 7th, an article on Imbolc , Wednesday February the 18th, and “Hurray, hurray, it’s the first of May, Outdoor mating starts today. The celebration of Beltane” posted on Wednesday April 29th.

Summer Holiday

Due to my laptop going off to be fixed again

and also it being summer

Jax Writers Spot

is taking a bit of a break

Enjoy the Sunshine

xxxxxxxx

Mens health week 2009. A time to focus on male specific health issues such as prostate problems.

It is generally accepted that men do not visit the doctors as much as women. In one study younger men suggested embarrassment stopped them visiting the doctors, while older men suggested fear of what may be found stopped them visiting surgeries. National Men’s health week 2009 (15th - 21st June) focused on improving men’s use of medical services, and reducing the risks to men’s health and wellbeing. A report published at the beginning of the week by the National Cancer Intelligence Network (NCIN) and the Men’s health Forum suggests that men are almost 40% more likely than women to die from cancer. Professor David Forman puts forward that there seems to be no biological reason why men should be at greater risk from cancer than women, and suggests a possible explanation may me that are more likely to ignore symptoms, and put off going to the doctors, until sometimes it is too late for treatment to be effective. With the revelations of this study it seems more important than ever that men take charge of their health.

One of the biggest cancers affecting men is Prostate cancer. Around 27,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer annually, and over a third of those (around 9,900) end in death. As well as this, it is estimated that in the UK, half of men over 55 and three quarters of men over 70 suffer from an enlarged prostate; a condition known as Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy (BPH). Younger men can suffer from a condition known as Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) which can be treated with antibiotics. While these statistics are quite scary, there is more likelihood that conditions can be treated if men visit the doctor at the first sign of any symptoms. This article will mainly discuss BPH, but will also briefly discuss Prostate cancer and Prostatitis.

The prostate is a small gland that surrounds the neck of the bladder and the urethra. Its job is to secrete seminal fluids, and to contract to cause ejaculation during sexual intercourse. As men age the prostate gland can grow up to four times the size it started out as. This is mainly due to hormonal changes associated with aging. After the age of 50 or so, levels of testosterone begin to decrease, while the production of oestrogen increases. Much of the testosterone which is still produced gets converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which collects in the prostate and encourages overproduction of prostate cells thus causing its enlargement. In younger men DHT is broken down before it can cause harm, however the excess oestrogen in older men inhibit DHT breakdown. The majority of prostate problems are caused by this gradual enlargement, which is known as Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy (BPH)

The urethra, (which takes urine from the bladder) passes by the prostate, and as the enlarged gland places extra pressure on the urethra, it obstructs the flow of urine.

Symptoms of BPH include:

• the need to urinate more often
• difficulty in starting the flow of urine
• a flow which starts and stops
• increased need to urinate in the night
• and increased sense of urgency/need to urinate right away
• dribbling after urination
• burning or pain during urination

For some men the enlargement of the prostate can cause more severe symptoms such as:

• Finding it impossible to urinate (this generally only happens in about 2%of cases of BPH and requires immediate medical treatment)
• Inability to empty the bladder, known as chronic retention (as BPH develops more and more urine gets left in the bladder)

Doctors can identify prostate problems by:

• Patients keeping a diary recording drinking and urination over a period of many days.
• Carrying out a rectal examination as the prostate can be felt through the rectum wall.
• The doctor may also test the urine, and kidney function can be determined with a blood test.
• Further investigations may involve conducting a flow test which can asses the speed at which urine leaves the bladder
• and possibly an ultrasound examination.

Please note: Any treatment is likely to offer relief but doesn't stop the possibility of relapses. It is not always possible to completely cure prostate problems and conditions often do recur. If an enlarged prostate can be softened and becomes smaller again then urination will be easier and less painful, however as it has grown to be this size with age, It is likely that it will stay slightly larger.

Conventional treatment of Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy, involves medication or possible surgery.

Finasteride a 5-alpha-reductase- inhibitor is a common medication which inhibits the production of dihydrotestosterone and therefore should stop the growth of the prostate. Alternative medication includes a variety of alpha blockers, which do not reduce the size of the prostate, but relax the muscles and therefore reduce the obstruction to the flow of urine.

Surgery will involve the removal of some of the enlarged tissue of the prostate gland, however there are many risks involved including ‘retrograde ejaculation’ where semen can enter the urine during ejaculation.

Cancer of the prostate
Prostate cancer often has no symptoms in the early stages, and in later stages the symptoms are very similar to BPH. The difference is that the enlargement of the prostate gland is caused by a tumour which can spread to other parts of the body. It is reported that prostate cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer (after skin cancer) in males in Western countries.

There is a simple blood test called a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test which screens for prostate cancer and is recommended men should take the PSA test every two years. Without any investigation or treatment, as the cancer develops the symptoms are likely to become more severe and can include:

• Weight loss
• Pain in the legs and/or pelvis and/or lower back.
  

It is not clear what causes prostate cancer but it may well be heredity, and it is also suggested a diet high in fats and low in vegetables can possibly increase the risk of developing prostate problems.

Prostatitis
Prostatitis is inflammation or infection of the prostate, and is most common in men aged 20 to 50. Treatment generally involves a course of antibiotics. Symptoms can include:

• Having to urinate more often and with more urgency
• Pain while urinating
• Feeling generally unwell with a fever
• Aches and pains in lower back abdomen and/or genitals.
• Painful ejaculation.

Chronic Prostatitis can sometimes be difficult to totally clear up, and can recur. It is therefore important to finish any course of antibiotics, and it may also be useful to explore preventative measures through adopting a healthy diet. Nicotine and alcohol can trigger non bacterial prostatitis, and also stress may be a trigger and relaxation exercises may help. Regular ejaculation can also help relieve congestion in the prostate gland.

Natural help for a healthy prostate

Foods to avoid:

A diet high in fats from butter, red meats, and diary products is likely to aggravate prostate problems.

Generally avoid stimulants such as coffee, alcohol, sugar and carbonated drinks.

Pesticide and herbicide residues have been suggested to be linked to an increased risk of prostate cancer so therefore choosing organic foods is a better option. Also locally grown fruit and vegetables which have not travelled many miles are likely to contain more nutrients.

Foods which are high in quick releasing sugars such as cakes and biscuits can cause inflammation and therefore best avoided.

Friendly foods:

Drinking water preferably 2 litres a day is always a good step in any healthy eating plan.

Foods high in Zinc are particularly important for the protection of the prostate. Zinc is more abundant in prostate tissue than any other organ in the body and is vital for normal hormone metabolism. Low levels of zinc have been linked to BPH and prostate cancer, as Zinc inhibits the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). You can either take a zinc supplement or eat foods rich in zinc such as pumpkin, sunflower, and sesame seeds.

Although it is advisable to generally avoid a high fat diet, essential fats especially Omega-3 found in oily fish and linseed oil can also help protect the prostate against enlargement.

Pumpkin seeds are a great food for anyone with prostate problems as they are rich in zinc and essential fatty acids.

Soya beans are rich in Isoflavones which have been shown to inhibit the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Soya beans have a high content of plant sterols which can also relieve the symptoms of BPH.

Eat more highly coloured fruit and vegetables such as carrots, peppers, summer berries, avocados, sweet potatoes, and dark green vegetables, as they are rich in antioxidants which can help calm inflammation.

Tomatoes have a high content of the antioxidant lycopene, which a study by Harvard researchers found may be significant in protecting against prostate cancer. They found that men eating more than ten servings of tomato based dishes a week had a 35% decreased risk of prostate cancer than those who only ate tomatoes once a week.

Useful Remedies:

Pygeum
It is thought that pygeum works to relive symptoms associated with BPH, such as an increased need to urinate and painful urination, by interfering with the site (located in the prostate) that the dihydrotestosterone (DHT) needs to bind itself to. Pygeum also contains phytosterols which have been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect on the prostate.

Red Clover
An increase of oestrogen, as men get older, is linked to BPH. Red clover is a useful herb to help with an enlarged prostate, as it contains phytooestrongenic isoflavones which can inhibit the overproduction of oestrogen.

Saw Palmetto
A very popular remedy; Saw Palmetto reduces the swelling in the prostate, by inhibiting the production of the enzyme which converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It is suggested that saw palmetto can be as effective as some of the conventional medicines, however a proper diagnosis from a doctor is essential before embarking on any treatment. One of the reasons people do not stick with herbal remedies is that they want and expect immediate results. Herbs however often treat the cause of a condition, as opposed to masking symptoms, and as many conditions have taken years to become a problem, no-one is likely to find they are cured overnight. It can take one to three months before saw palmetto begins to work. Once symptoms are stable, as prostate problems can recur, it would be beneficial to continue taking a maintenance dose of saw palmetto daily.

For further information and help look at:
http://www.prostatehelp.me.uk/
Prostate cancer research foundation http://www.thepcrf.org/
http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/
http://www.menshealthforum.org.uk/

“Let food be thy medicine and thy medicine be thy food”
Hippocrates

Note: Information in this article is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor, who should be the first port of call with any of the mentioned health conditions. I am not medically qualified, but have been interested in nutrition since my eldest daughter developed food intolerances almost 20 years ago. I have researched this piece from reputable internet sites and by reading through books such as;

The Food Doctor, Healing foods for mind and body by Vicki Edgson & Ian Marber

Superfoods by Michael Van Straten & Barbara Griggs

Prescription for Nutritional healing 2nd edition by James F Balch M.D & Phyllis A. Balch C.N.C

Food your miracle medicine by Jean Harper

The food pharmacy by Jean Harper

500 of the most important health tips you’ll ever need by Hazel Courteney

The ABC of superfoods 'B'

This article is the second in a series, looking at the ABC of foods which have been deemed super-foods. Eating a healthy balanced diet involves eating a variety of different foods including; fruit and vegetables, wholemeal and wholegrain foods, and protein such as fish, meat, eggs and lentils, and some milk and dairy foods.

Bananas

Contains: Potassium, beta-carotene, tryptophan, vitamin K, B6, & C.

Bananas are one of nature’s best fast foods, at just under 100 calories they are packed full of nourishing nutrients. Weight for weight bananas can provide the same amount of vitamin B6 as liver, which many people do not get enough of in their diets. They also contain a very useful form of fibre called pectin which can help the body eliminate toxic wastes such as heavy metals, and can also help lower cholesterol.

Bananas are often recommended by complimentary therapists for constipation as well as diarrhoea as they are known to restore the normal function of the digestive tract.

Research has found that ‘tryptophan’; an amino acid found in bananas, can promote sleep and help with depression. Tryptophan is involved in the production of serotonin, and studies have shown that depletion in tryptophan can lead to reduced serotonin levels, and possibly increase a person’s chances of suffering from depression. Serotonin is also a precursor to the hormone; melatonin which promotes good sleep. On top of this, it is suggested that tryptophan may decrease the appetite for carbohydrates, and therefore bananas may also be useful for anyone wanting to lose weight.

Barley

Contains: Potassium, phosphorous, zinc, manganese, magnesium, calcium, folic acid and B vitamins.

Barley has been cultivated for hundreds of years, longer than many other cereals. Heavy round flat loaves made from barley was a staple food in the middle ages. As the loaves were so heavy, oats and then wheat became more popular. Barley is nutrient rich with very high levels of calcium and potassium, and also provides plenty of B vitamins making it a good food for people suffering from fatigue.

Barley is well known for its demulcent qualities, and is especially soothing for inflammatory conditions of the digestive and urinary tract. Homemade barley water made by boiling a washed heaped teaspoon of pot barley in a pint of water and simmering for 30 minutes, can be used to help sooth irritation caused by cystitis and constipation.

Research has suggested that the coarse outer layers of barley, as well as other cereals, contain substances that inhibit the production of cholesterol. It has been suggested that fibres known as beta glucans, present throughout barley, binds to bile acids and aids their elimination from the body. Bile acids digest fats which are manufactured from cholesterol by the liver. When bile acids are excreted from the body, the liver must manufacture more, and therefore using up more cholesterol, and lowering the amount of cholesterol in the body.

Beetroot

Contains: Iron, magnesium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, manganese, folic acid and vitamin C.

Beetroot juice has been used for centuries as a blood builder, for patients who were weak and run down, as well as to help build up resistance after illness. Raw beetroot juice acts as a general tonic and also acts as a powerful cleanser not only for the blood, but also the intestines, gall bladder, and liver. It is suggested beetroot juice can also help eliminate kidney stones.

Much research has also been done into how beetroot can be beneficial in the treatment of cancer. Studies in hospitals in Germany found that beetroot contains anti-carcinogenic substances which are bound to its red colour. It has been suggested that beetroots effectiveness against cancer, may be that it has the ability to increase the uptake of oxygen in the cells.

Beetroots are particularly rich in vitamin B12 (folic acid), which is essential for normal tissue growth, and alongside this folic acid is needed in the formation of blood, and the transmission of hereditary characteristics. Beetroot is therefore is an important food for pregnant women, and can help protect against birth defects.

Berries

Although they are often quite expensive, just one cup of berries can provide us with all the super-healthy antioxidants we need in a single day. Antioxidants help to prevent the formation of free radicals. Free radicals are atoms or groups of atoms that cause damage to our cells, impairing the immune system, and possibly leading to infections and degenerative diseases such as heart disease and cancer, they are also thought to accelerate the aging process. Free radicals are produced in a number of ways; such as exposure to environmental pollutants like tobacco smoke and exhaust fumes, and cooking food at too high a temperature, common when frying food in hot oil or barbecuing. By destroying free radicals antioxidants are useful to help detoxify and protect the body.

Berries also contain high levels of phyto-oestrogens which are beneficial for female reproductive health. They can be helpful with erratic periods, PMS, and menopausal problems.

There are many reported health benefits from eating different types of berries. Blackberries are a good tonic and blood cleanser and are said to relieve diarrhoea. Cranberries can kill harmful bacteria in the kidneys, bladder and urinary tract.

Blueberries contain; vitamin C and beta-carotene and are known to be a good blood cleanser, and can also help improve circulation and benefit eyesight.

Broccoli

Contains: Calcium, Magnesium, iron, phosphorous, folic acid, beta-carotene, vitamins B3, B5 &C
Highly nutritious broccoli is a member of the crucifer family, which have been found to be anti-cancerous. Broccoli is high in antioxidants such as; beta-carotene which are said to inhibit the activation of cancer cells. Broccoli also contains phytonutrients such as; ‘indoles’ and ‘sulforaphane’. Research has shown that sulforaphane helps with detoxification and can help get rid of carcinogenic substances more effectively. Indoles have been found to be able to suppress a potent estrogen metabolite which has been linked to breast cancer tumour growth, as well as suppressing the movement of cancer cells to other parts of the body.

Broccoli is also an excellent source of fibre and an effective intestinal cleanser. It has also been reported that sulforaphane can inhibit the production of intestinal polyps which are the precursors to colon cancer.

Broccoli has many reported health benefits due to being a powerhouse of nutrients. Eating broccoli may help in the prevention of cataracts due to containing the antioxidants ‘lutein’ and ‘zeaxanthin’ which are found in the lens of the eyes. The activity of the antioxidants in broccoli which help prevent free radical formation can also help protect against heart disease. Broccoli has a high vitamin C content, which combined with the amount of calcium in broccoli can help build stronger bones, and combined with its beta-carotene and zinc and selenium content makes it a good food to help boost the immune system. As broccoli is also rich in iron it is useful for anyone suffering from fatigue and nervous problems. All in all broccoli is clearly a super ‘superfood’.

Buckwheat

Contains: Zinc, calcium, potassium, beta-carotene, magnesium, phosphorous, manganese, folic acid, vitamin C.

Buckwheat contains all eight essential amino acids making it a perfect protein food for vegetarians and it is also an excellent source of fibre, which is essential for bowel health. As fibre passes through the body it absorbs water and therefore increases the bulk of waste matter. Eating more fibre can help with a number of bowel problems such as constipation, haemorrhoids and diverticulitis. Fibre can also help stabilise blood sugar levels as it slows down the rate glucose is absorbed into the blood stream.

Many of buckwheat’s health benefits are due to providing a rich supply of the flavanoid; rutin. Rutin is known to strengthen and tone the walls of the capillaries. Buckwheat can help protect against heart disease, due to its rutin and other flavonoid content. It has been found these compounds help maintain blood flow, and prevent platelets in blood from clotting. Buckwheat’s high magnesium content compliments the actions of these flavonoids, by relaxing blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and improving the uptake of nutrients. Studies have shown that diets high in buckwheat is also linked to lowered levels of cholesterol. All in all buckwheat is a great food for a healthy cardiovascular system.

On top of this it is claimed that Rutin is able to lift depression. It is said this is due to its ability to alter brain waves and combine the ability to stimulate and sedate.

Negativity attracts negativity. Positivity attracts postivity.

“The power of the word is real, whether or not you are conscious of it. Your own words are the bricks and mortar of the dreams you want to realise. Behind every word flows energy.”
Sonia Choquette

Our thoughts and beliefs influence every aspect of our lives. Louise Hay is one of many people who promote the use of positive affirmations. An affirmation is anything we say or think. She suggests we have got stuck in the habit of saying negative affirmations to ourselves, and we can effectively re programme our minds to think positively by using positive affirmations. This article explores whether and how they work, and the reasons they may fail.

Bad habits are very hard to break and negative patterns of thinking are habits we have often been built up over a life time. Many of the beliefs we develop over time, may have actually have been passed onto us by significant adults during our childhood. We build up beliefs by being continually exposed to behaviour, or by being constantly told something. We then use the ways of thinking/behaviours we have learned, to react and respond to everyday events in our lives. Often our learnt thought patterns can be dysfunctional and sabotage our efforts to succeed later on in life. Being told as children that we are not very bright, for example, may lead to not believing we are capable and lead to us not undertaking an academic course, which may further our career.

Positive affirmations can be a powerful tool in challenging fears, and negative patterns of thought. A positive affirmation is essentially a strong statement reassuring us everything is ok despite our minds predicting the worse case scenario. By saying these affirmations we are attempting to change our learnt thought patterns, and replace negativity in our mind with positive thoughts.

There are many reasons why affirmations don’t work for people. Psychologists suggest the first step towards change is awareness that you need to change. The second step is acceptance; i.e. accepting that you do talk to yourself negatively, and the last step is action, and taking steps to make the changes. One reason may be that that people don’t actually want to change, or are not prepared to put the work in that may be needed. We may also be comfortable with the life thinking negatively has created. An example could be if a person has had bad experiences/trauma and they find by continuing in the role of the victim, they are cared for and looked after in their relationships. If they start changing their thought patterns and become more empowered it most certainly will change their relationship dynamics.

You can continue along as you have been, or you can choose and make an effort to think thoughts to make you feel good. By doing this you are effectively saying to your subconscious mind ‘I am taking responsibility, I am aware there is something I can do to change.’ This can be done by starting to pay attention to your thoughts, so you can then eliminate experiences you don’t want in your life.

While the idea of changing your thought processes sounds simple, it is not simple and it is not always easy. Our subconscious mind has been busy throughout out lives developing patterns of thought and behaviour, and is very likely to resist any attempts to change these patterns. While we consciously may recognise that our thought patterns may be sabotaging our success, attempting to change established thought patterns may lead to conflict between the subconscious and the conscious mind. However by not focusing on the difficulties of the task ahead, being patient, taking small steps and not expecting big results right away, and allowing positive affirmations to permeate your consciousness they will eventually become a part of you.

Self help guru; Susan Jeffers author of ‘Feel the fear and do it anyway’ believes if you say affirmations enough you will really start to believe them, and this works due to acting ‘as if’ they are true. An affirmation is not just a sentence it represents a new way of life, and as we imagine ourselves as strong and powerful ultimately we will become more empowered. It is suggested we have the power within ourselves, and affirmations are part of a process which helps us recognise and act on this power.

Another reason why some people don’t find affirmations beneficial, is they have trouble believing what they are saying. We often really believe what we saying to ourselves, when we berate ourselves with negative self talk, and this makes these negative affirmations all the more powerful. Believing what you say to yourself is often to key to whether affirmations will work or not. Affirmations are statements set in the present tense. Saying to yourself ‘I am healthy and love and care for my body’ when you are overweight and don’t do any exercise, or ‘I have all the money I need to pay all my bills’ when you are in debt, is likely to register as a lie in your mind and therefore be ineffective.

The key to making affirmations work for you is not to pick affirmations you find completely unbelievable. Saying affirmations such as: ‘I am a loving person and my friends love me’ is more believable and more likely over time to re-programme negative ways of thinking about yourself, and help you feel more happy and confident. Another advantage of saying affirmations is that you don’t need to find extra time in a possibly already busy schedule to say them. Affirmations can be said while you are doing other things such as; the washing up, driving your car, or walking.

However it is important to keep saying them, as a lack of consistency is another reason why positive affirmations may not have the desired effect. An example of being inconsistent is if you say a certain affirmation to yourself for ten minutes every day while you are doing the washing up, and then spend the rest of the day saying to yourself ‘I am useless at this job’ ‘They won’t like me anyway’ ‘I am so stupid’ etc Well these are affirmations too, and as this negative self talk is so engrained, and often said with much feeling, it is likely to win over the positive self talk.

If you are consistent, you can use affirmations to chip away at negative thought patterns. By repeating the affirmations again and again throughout the day, you may find they start automatically popping into your mind, and eventually you start developing a new habit of thinking positively. Writing your affirmations on post it notes and sticking them around your house, so that you will notice them throughout the day, is one way to remind yourself to say them regularly. The more you choose to think thoughts to make you feel good, the quicker the affirmations will begin to work.

Louise Hay also makes a connection between dis-ease, ill health, and negative thinking. However claims that specific illnesses and diseases such as cancer, are caused by negativity and that you can cure yourself with positive thinking, may be why positive affirmations have had a bit of a bad press, and why they are often considered kooky or weird. However having said that there have been studies that suggest that a positive mental attitude, can boost our immune system and enable us to resist and fight illness more effectively.

What is clear is that that they way we think does affect our lives. A positive frame of mind does help us cope more effectively with the every day stresses and strains of life. Every thought we have counts, and starting now we can choose to not waste our thoughts.

You can make up your own affirmations. However you may find it easier to use affirmations other people have written until you got into the habit of doing them a bit more. There are many books and CDs available which you may find useful, or you can find many affirmations on the internet. I would recommend looking at these websites:

www.vitalaffirmations.com
www.susanjeffers.com
www.aplacefortheheart.co.uk

Here are a few to get you started:

I am willing to release negative thoughts. My new thoughts are positive and fulfilling.

My views and opinions are important and I choose to be heard.

Life is simple. What I give out comes back to me. Today I choose to give love.

I forgive myself for not being perfect, and love myself exactly as I am. Every mistake I make is yet another opportunity to learn.

As I think positive and beautiful thoughts, I attract positivity and beauty into my life.

The past is my history, the future is my unknown. I choose to live in the present.

Today, no person, place or thing can irritate me. I choose to be at peace.

I choose to feel good about myself. I am worthy of my own love.

I am in the process of positive change. I now express health, happiness and piece of mind.

I remember the past, learn from it, then release it. I love who I am.

I am unlimited in my own ability to create the good in my life.

My home is filled with joy, love, laughter, and understanding.

The only life I have control over is mine and only I control my life.

This is my time to be free to be me, and have the good things in life because I am worth it.

I choose to release myself from fears and doubt. I accept myself and create peace in my mind and heart. I am loved and I am safe.