What are Complementary & Alternative Therapies?
Basically, they are practices & medicines that are not considered to be in the "conventional" medicine system such as those found in medical practices, hospitals & pharmacies.
Alternative therapies such as herbs, are considered to be an alternative in most cases to a similar pharmaceutical medication; Complementary therapies often are used in conjunction with "conventional" medical practices & pharmaceuticals.
Interestingly, many of these therapies are called "new age" but many of these are hundreds if not thousands of years old!
They are not there to replace or compete with modern medical practices nor pharmaceutical medications. They can be used in conjunction or as an alternative.
As with most CAM, they look at, and work with, the body as a whole - mind, body, spirit.
Check out your local area and see what CAM practices are available and give them a go.
Diverticular Disease -
Bowel Health and other body benefits -Suggested Dietary Supplements & Nutraceuticals
Whilst the main focus is on large intestine/bowel health, the supplements and neutraceuticals mentioned below have benefits for the health of other body parts.
Dietary Supplement
something added to complete a thing, supply a deficiency, or reinforce or extend a whole. Eg a vitamin C deficiency
Neutraceutical
Also called functional foods
a foodstuff (such as a fortified food or dietary supplement) that provides health benefits in addition to its basic nutritional value technical : a specially treated food, vitamin, mineral, herb, etc., that you eat or drink in order to improve your health
Digestive enzymes proteases, lipases, amylases (bromelain, papain, ficin)
Betaine hydrochloride
Glutathione
Vitamin A & C, Zinc
Benefits of these two vitamins and mineral are on repairing and maintaining the epiltheium of the large intestine. This is often damaged with conditions that affect the large intestine.
Prebiotics/Probiotics/Synbiotic formula
Linseed, Sunflower seeds (LSA mix) softened
Psyillum softened – reduce symptoms not recurrence
Apple cider vinegar and honey
Aloe vera juice
5 Powerful Herbs To Quickly Heal A Leaky Gut
Slippery Elm
Marshmallow Root
Licorice Root
Yarrow
Plantain
For the full article and benefits and actions of these herbs please go to
NB: Herbs are pure plants- always consult a professional Herbalist or a Naturopath with Herbal Medicine qualifications and check for any contraindications with pharmaceutical medicine and interaction with other herbs before use.
Using The Arts to reduce stress,blood pressure and risk of heart disease
Firstly - identify the risks -
by knowing YOUR risk factors,
you can go about reducing those that you can change
What is Arts Therapy?
Arts therapy focuses on creative therapies that help reduce stress as the person partakes in activities they enjoy. They can be activities they have undertaken previously, or want to try something new.
The focus is not on perfection, it is on enjoyment and personal achievement with the aim of improving mental health and therefore reducing other health risks, including cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Cardiovascular Risk Reduction can take place before someone develops CVD, to reduce diagnosed CVD or post CVD event.
CVD events include heart attack, cerebral attacks (Strokes), Stress, Depression and Anxiety
Types of Arts Therapy include:
Art & Craft
Music
Dance Movement
For more information, check your local council website, local arts centre or local activity centre for more options and ideas.
Use of Supplements and Anaemia - Iron, Folate/B9 and Cobalamin/B12
Supplementation can be of benefit to treat an existing, diagnosed deficiency causing anaemia and to prevent anaemia in at risk groups (eg. pregnant women, menstruating girls and women, those with cancer, malabsorptive conditions such as Coeliac Disease).
The most common causes of micronutrient deficiency causing aneamia are Iron, Folate/B9 and Cobalmin/B12.
Some general formulations have traces of all three eg Multivitamin & Mineral; others are single dose eg. B12 injection.
It is important to not self prescribe. See your GP, get a blood test and discuss results and recommendations.
Another important point with regard to supplementation, is ensuring that the active components, ie. iron, B9 and B12, are in a format that means the dose is being absorbed from the blood and into the cells.
When purchasing, check the non active ingredients that are often used a fillers and to make the capsule or tablet. Best to purchase from the Health food shop or Pharmacy where staff are trained, not only re the brands, but also to ask questions that may make the product unsuitable for you. This include Interactions and Contraindications with pharmaceutical medication and other minerals, vitamins and your own health status.
Be very cautious re buying online. Stick to TGA approved Australian brands or the equivalent in your Country if not in Australia, eg. USA - FDA.
Supplements can cause Side affects and in extreme cases, death.
See "Focus on Micronutrients" for Recommended Daily Intakes for Iron, Folate/B9 and Cobalamin/B12.
Overview
Iron
Iron supplements, also known as iron salts and iron pills, are a number of iron formulations used to treat and prevent iron deficiency including iron deficiency anemia.
For prevention they are only recommended in those with poor absorption, heavy menstrual periods, pregnancy, hemodialysis, or a diet low in iron. Prevention may also be used in low birth weight babies.
Methods of taking Iron Supplements
They are taken by mouth, injection into a vein, or injection into a muscle. While benefits may be seen in days, up to two months may be required until iron levels return to normal.
Side Effects
Side effects of therapy with oral iron are most often diarrhea or constipation and epigastric abdominal discomfort. Taken after a meal, side effects decrease, but there is an increased risk of interaction with other substances. Side effects are dose-dependent, and the dose may be adjusted.
The patient may notice that their stools become black. This is completely harmless, but patients must be warned about this to avoid unnecessary concern. When iron supplements are given in a liquid form, teeth may reversibly discolour (this can be avoided through the use of a straw). Intramuscular injection can be painful, and brown discoloration may be noticed.
Treatments with iron(II) sulfate have higher incidence of adverse events than iron(III)-hydroxide polymaltose complex (IPC) or iron bis-glycinate chelate.
Iron overdose has been one of the leading causes of death caused by toxicological agents in children younger than 6 years.
Iron poisoning may result in mortality or short-term and long-term morbidity.
Interactions and Contraindications
Non-heme iron forms an insoluble complex with several other drugs, resulting in decreased absorption of both iron and the other drug. Examples include tetracycline, penicillamine, methyldopa, levodopa, bisphosphonates and quinolones. The same can occur with elements in food, such as calcium. Absorption of iron is better at a low pH (i.e. an acidic environment), and absorption is decreased if there is a simultaneous intake of antacids.
Many other substances decrease the rate of non-heme iron absorption. Examples are tannins from foods, such as tea and saw palmetto, phytic acid, and roughage. Because iron from plant sources is less easily absorbed than the heme-bound iron of animal sources, vegetarians and vegans should have a somewhat higher total daily iron intake than those who eat meat, fish or poultry.
Taken after a meal, there are fewer side effects but there is also less absorption because of interaction and pH alteration. Generally, an interval of 2–3 hours between the iron intake and that of other drugs seems advisable, but is less convenient for patients and can impact on compliance.
For full referencing, see Iron supplement - Wikipedia
Other useful links”
Folate/B9
The synthetic form of folate is folic acid. It's in an essential component of prenatal vitamins and is in many fortified foods.
Vitamin B9, more commonly known as folate (naturally-occurring form of B9) or folic acid (a synthetic form), is a water-soluble vitamin that is part of the B vitamin family. B vitamins and folate help support adrenal function, help calm and maintain a healthy nervous system, and are necessary for key metabolic processes. Folate occurs naturally in foods, while folic acid is the synthetic form of folate.
Folate (vitamin B-9) is important in red blood cell formation and for healthy cell growth and function. The synthetic form of folate is folic acid. It's in an essential component of prenatal vitamins and is in many fortified foods
Research on use of folate and oral folic acid supplements for specific conditions shows:
· Birth defects.
· Folic acid deficiency.
· Heart and blood vessel disease and stroke.
· Cancer.
· Depression.
· Dementia.
For most people, it's best to get folate from food. A balanced diet usually provides all you need. However, folic acid supplements are recommended for women who are planning to become pregnant, could become pregnant, are pregnant or are breast-feeding.
Folic acid supplements can also help people who have poor diets or conditions that interfere with the body's ability to absorb folate.
Safety and side effects
When used orally at appropriate doses, folic acid is likely safe.
Oral use of folic acid can cause:
· Bad taste in your mouth
· Nausea
· Loss of appetite
· Confusion
· Irritability
· Sleep pattern disturbance
People with allergies might have a reaction to folic acid supplements. Warning signs of an allergic reaction include:
· Skin rash
· Itching
· Redness
· Difficulty breathing
Excess folic acid is excreted in urine.
A high folate intake can mask vitamin B-12 deficiency until its neurological effects become irreversible. This can typically be remedied by taking a supplement containing 100 percent of the daily value of both folic acid and vitamin B-12.
Interactions and Contrainidications
Possible interactions include:
· Anticonvulsants. Taking folic acid with fosphenytoin (Cerebyx), phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek) or primidone (Mysoline) might decrease the drug's concentration in your blood.
· Barbiturates. Taking folic acid with a drug that acts as a central nervous system depressant (barbiturate) might decrease the drug's effectiveness.
· Methotrexate (Trexall). Taking folic acid with this medication used to treat cancer could interfere with its effectiveness.
· Pyrimethamine (Daraprim). Taking folic acid with this antimalarial drug might reduce the effectiveness of the drug.
Useful links
Cobalamin/B12
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin involved in metabolism. It is one of eight B vitamins. It is a cofactor in DNA synthesis, in both fatty acid and amino acid metabolism. It is important in the normal functioning of the nervous system via its role in the synthesis of myelin, and in the maturation of red blood cells in the bone marrow.
The most common cause of vitamin B12 deficiency in developed countries is impaired absorption due to a loss of gastric intrinsic factor (IF) which must be bound to a food-source of B12 in order for absorption to occur.
A second major cause is age-related decline in stomach acid production (achlorhydria), because acid exposure frees protein-bound vitamin. For the same reason, people on long-term antacid therapy, using proton-pump inhibitors, H2 blockers or other antacids are at increased risk.
Deficiency may be characterized by limb neuropathy or a blood disorder called pernicious anemia, a type of megaloblastic anemia. Folate levels in the individual may affect the course of pathological changes and symptomatology of vitamin B12 deficiency.
Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, of which pernicious anemia (PA) is a type, is a disease in which not enough red blood cells are produced due to a deficiency of vitamin B12. The most common initial symptom is feeling tiredness and weakness.
Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, pale skin, feeling like one may pass out (lightheadedness), chest pain, rapid heartbeat, numbness in the hands and feet, poor balance, a frequent fall of blood pressure, loss of appetite, a smooth red tongue, memory problems, poor reflexes, and in severe cases even depression and confusion. Without treatment some of these problems may become permanent.
Methods of taking Cobalamin/B12 Supplements
Pernicious anemia can be treated with injections of vitamin B12. If the symptoms are severe, injections are typically recommended initially. For those who have trouble swallowing pills, a nasal spray is available Often, treatment .is lifelong.
The standard treatment for PA has been intramuscular injections of cobalamin in the form of cyanocobalamin (CN-Cbl), hydroxocobalamin (OH-Cbl) or methylcobalamin.
Oral doses are a treatment with high-dose vitamin B12 1000 mcg (1 mg) oral form also appears as effective as and cheaper than the parenteral form.
Most people get enough vitamin B-12 from a balanced diet. However, older adults, vegetarians, vegans and people who have conditions that affect their ability to absorb vitamin B-12 from foods might benefit from the use of oral supplements.
Vitamin B-12 supplements also are recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding exclusively and follow vegetarian or vegan diets.
Safety and side effects
When taken at appropriate doses, vitamin B-12 supplements are generally considered safe. While the recommended daily amount of vitamin B-12 for adults is 2.4 micrograms, higher doses have been found to be safe. Your body absorbs only as much as it needs, and any excess passes through your urine.
High doses of vitamin B-12, such as those used to treat a deficiency, might cause:
· Headache
· Nausea and vomiting
· Diarrhea
· Fatigue or weakness
· Tingling sensation in hands and feet
Interactions and Contraindications
Possible interactions include:
· Aminosalicylic acid (Paser). Taking this drug used to treat digestive problems might reduce your body's ability to absorb vitamin B-12.
· Colchicine (Colcrys, Mitigare, Gloperba). Taking this anti-inflammatory drug used to prevent and treat gout attacks might decrease your body's ability to absorb vitamin B-12.
· Metformin (Glumetza, Fortamet, others). Taking this diabetes drug might reduce your body's ability to absorb vitamin B-12.
· Proton pump inhibitors. Taking omeprazole (Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid) or other stomach acid-reducing drugs might decrease your body's ability to absorb vitamin B-12.
· Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) supplements. Taking vitamin B-12 with vitamin C might reduce the available amount of vitamin B-12 in your body. To avoid this interaction, take vitamin C two or more hours after taking a vitamin B-12 supplement.
Your doctor might recommend changing drugs or timing doses to offset any potential interactions.
For full referencing, see
Useful links
Using herbs as medicine
I will begin with a huge note of caution :
Herbs are the purest form of plant medicine. Many pharmaceutical medications are based on herb/plant origins. They may be "natural" but are not always safe.
There are interactions that occur with other foods and/or medications and there are contraindications, particularly with pharmaceutical medications.
Before you use herbs for T2D (and any other condition), please consult your GP, a Naturopath with Herbal Medicine qualifications and of course a qualified Herbalist (Folk and Chinese) . You need to speak with your Pharmacist, especially if you are on medications.
Best places to purchase herbs are at your Pharmacy and Health Food Shop
Check qualifications of staff re herbal knowledge.
Although tempting, be very careful about purchasing Herbs online.
Herbs for Respiratory Ailments
Herbs have long been used to prevent and treat respiratory ailments. Many herbs have been analysed and modified to make pharmaceutical medications. You can use all parts of a herb as medicine. They are fairly easy to grow and can be used a both medicine and food. (Please read Notice on Herbs - safety first and foremost).
Herbal properties for respiratory ailments aid with fever, reducing inflammation, reducing mucous production and relieving coughs.
You can purchase from qualified herbalists and as Supplements in Health Food Shops and Pharmacies.
You can infuse as teas, inhale in steam, rub on sinuses and temples in a lotion....
Recommended Herbs for the Cold and Flu season
Ginger
Elderberry
Astragalus
Sage
Marshmallow
Echinacea
Yarrow
Chamomile
Lemon Balm
Recommended herbs for Hayfever
Stinging Nettle
Garlic and Onions
Gingko
Tinospora Cordifolia
Parsley
Rosemary
Reishi Mushroom
Butterbur
Phelum Pretense
Licorice
Sida Cordifolia
naturalon.com/top-12-most-effective-herbs-for-hay-fever-and-allergies
Recommended Herbs for Sinusitis
Mullein
Chamomile
Comfrey
Marshmallow
Ginger
Eyebright
Fenugreek
Thyme
Echinacea
Calendula
Ginseng
Astragalus
Horseradish
https://sniffrelief.com/blogs/news/get-sinus-relief-with-common-herbs
Use of Tissue Salts for Colds, Flu, Coughs, Sinusitis & Hayfever
What are Tissue Salts?
They are a homeopathically prepared micro dose of the body's 12 essential mineral salts.
Calc Fluor (calcium fluoride)
Calc Phos (calcium phosphate)
Calc Sulph (calcium sulphate)
Ferr Phos (ferrum phosphate)
Kali Mur (potassium chloride)
Kali Phos (potassium phosphate)
Kali Sulph (potassium sulphate)
Mag Phos (magnesium phosphate)
Nat Mur (sodium chloride)
Nat Phos (sodium phosphate)
Nat Sulph (sodium sulphate)
Silica
The salts are vital mineral constituents of the body. They combine with organic substances to produce and maintain the tissue cells of which the body is composed.
A cell salt deficiency or imbalance may result in illness - the symptoms vary depending upon the deficient salt. If the deficiency was corrected, the body could heal itself.
Tissue Salts are safe to use at any age and for pets, as well as with pharmaceutical medication. They are not drugs.
Tissue salts can be purchased as Individual Mineral salts or a Combinations.
The formulas can be found at a Health food shop and Pharmacy (go to ones with a Naturopath working there). I shall expand on the all the 12 TS and Combination formulas in another blog.
For more serious chronic conditions you need to make an appointment with a Naturopath or Homeopath.
This advice is general and should not take the place of a medical practitioner/GP.
Colds & Influenza
Ferr Phos Ferrum/Iron Phosphate Inflammation, fevers, redness & throbbing
Kali Mur Potassium Chloride Glandular Tonic & Congestion
Comb T First stage of illness Inflammation, sore throat & fever
Comb 12 General Tonic Overall fatigue & exhaustion
Coughs
Kali Mur Potassium Chloride Glandular Tonic & Congestion
Comb J Coughs Colds & chest congestion
Sinus
Kali Mur Potassium Chloride Glandular Tonic & Congestion
Comb Q Sinus Symptoms of catarrh & sinusitis
Hayfever
Kali Mur Potassium Chloride Glandular Tonic & Congestion
Comb H Hayfever Allergies & rhinitis
Herbs for type 2 diabetes
I have chosen Herbs as the complimentary/alternative medicine for this blog on type 2 diabetes.
The following article has been modified from a source written by Jon Johnson.
The main reference is 7 herbs and supplements for type 2 diabetes (medicalnewstoday.com), go to this site for further information on reviews.
Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT
Written by Jon Johnson on March 27, 2019
Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT (All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.)
Considerations for people for diabetes
People should always work with a healthcare professional before taking any new herb or supplement.
People with type 2 diabetes may use oral medication instead of insulin. Sometimes, people with type 2 can only control their blood sugar with insulin, but it is possible for people with this type to end their need for both insulin and oral medication. Through careful control of diet and establishing and maintaining a healthy weight body mass index (BMI), people can reduce and even reverse type 2 diabetes and its consequences.
Herbs may help manage blood sugar, weight loss, and adverse effects of the disease.
Regardless of the type of diabetes, the individual needs to work with their doctor, learn as much as they can about their treatment options, and monitor their blood sugars to keep them within a healthy range.
High blood sugar quickly damages body organs, but self-care is the key.
The doctor may suggest starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it until the person finds a suitable dose.
Some herbs can interact with other medications that do the same job, such as blood thinners and high blood pressure medications. It is essential to be aware of any interactions before starting a new supplement.
People should also ensure they obtain their herbs and supplements from a high-quality source.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not monitor herbs and supplements, so products may contain different herbs and fillers, recommend an incorrect dose, or be contaminated, for example, with pesticides. (NB: Therapeutic Good Administration, TGA, in Australia DO monitor herbs/herbal products)
Herbs and supplements are a complementary treatment option, and should not replace medications.
Diabetes is a lifelong condition that affects the blood sugar and insulin levels in the body. Treatment includes lifestyle strategies and sometimes medication, but some complementary therapies, such as herbs and supplements, may help.
Herbs and supplements will not cure diabetes and do not constitute a standalone treatment, but some may combine with conventional treatment to provide relief from symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
Here are seven herbs and supplements that may be of benefit to people with
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a common plant with many different uses. Many people are aware of its benefits for skin care, but it may also have other benefits, including slowing the progress of type 2 diabetes.
One review, published in 2013, looked at the use of aloe vera to treat symptoms of diabetes in rats. Findings suggested that aloe vera might help protect and repair the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. The researchers believed this might be due to aloe’s antioxidant effects.
The researchers called for more research into aloe and its extracts to be sure of these effects.
Ways of taking aloe include:
adding juiced pulp to a drink or smoothie
taking capsules that contain aloe as supplements
People should not eat aloe vera skin care products.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a fragrant spice that comes from the bark of a tree. It is a popular ingredient in sweets, baked goods, and other dishes.
It has a taste that can add sweetness without any additional sugar. It is popular with people with type 2 diabetes for this reason alone, but it may also offer other benefits.
A 2010 review found evidence from studies involving humans that cinnamon may improve levels of:
glucose
insulin and insulin sensitivity
lipids, or fats, in the blood
antioxidant status
lean body mass
digestion
In another review published in 2013, researchers concluded that cinnamon might lead to:
lower fasting blood glucose levels
less total cholesterol and “bad” low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol
higher levels of “good” high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol
a reduction in triglycerides, or fat, in the blood
increased insulin sensitivity
It did not appear to have a significant impact on haemoglobin A1C. The A1C test is a standard test for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes.
Nevertheless, lipids, cholesterol, and insulin sensitivity are all important markers for people with diabetes.
In both studies, the researchers note that the results may depend on:
the type of cinnamon, as the amount of active ingredient depends on the type
the amount or dose
the individual’s response to cinnamon
other medications the person may be taking
Most studies have not involved humans, so there is a lack of evidence about how cinnamon might affect people, including its possible side effects. Scientists need to carry out more research to confirm the safety and effectiveness of cinnamon as a therapy.
People can take cinnamon:
in a variety of cooked dishes and baked goods
in teas
as a supplement
Anyone who is thinking of using cinnamon supplements should speak to their doctor first.
Bitter melon
Momordica charantia, or bitter melon, is a medicinal fruit. Practitioners of traditional Chinese and Indian medicine have used bitter melon for centuries. People can cook the fruit and use it in many dishes. Some scientists have been looking into its potential medicinal uses.
There is some evidence that bitter melon may help with the symptoms of diabetes. One review has noted that people have used many parts of the plant to help treat diabetes.
Research has shown that taking bitter melon in the following forms can lead to a reduction in blood sugar levels in some people:
seeds
blended vegetable pulp
juice
supplements
Eating or drinking the bitter melon can be an acquired taste, but taking supplements may make it more palatable.
There is not enough evidence to support using bitter melon instead of insulin or medication for diabetes.
However, it may help people rely less on those medications or lower their dosages.
Milk thistle
People have used milk thistle since ancient times for many different ailments, and especially as a tonic for the liver.
Silymarin, the extract from milk thistle that has received the most attention from scientists, is a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These are the properties that may make milk thistle a useful herb for people with diabetes.
Many of the studies on Silymarin are promising, but the research is not strong enough to recommend the herb or extract alone for diabetes care, according to one review published in 2016.
There appear to be no reports of significant side effects, and many people take milk thistle as a supplement. However, it is best to speak to a doctor first before using any supplements.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek is another seed that may help lower blood sugar levels.
The seeds contain fibres and chemicals that help to slow down the digestion of carbohydrates and sugar.
There is also some evidence that the seeds may help delay or prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes.
Findings of a 3-year investigation published in 2015 noted that people with pre diabetes were less likely to receive a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes while taking powdered fenugreek seed.
The researchers concluded that taking the seed led to:
increased levels of insulin in the body, leading to a reduction in blood sugar
lower cholesterol levels
The study involved 66 people with diabetes who took 5 grams (g) of the seed preparation twice a day before meals, and 74 controls, who did not take it.
A person can:
include fenugreek as a herb in certain dishes
add it to warm water
grind into a powder
take it as a supplement in capsule form
Gymnema
Gymnema sylvestre is a herb that comes from India. Its name means “sugar destroyer.”
A 2013 review noted that people with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes who took Gymnema showed signs of improvement.
In people with type 1 diabetes who took the leaf extract for 18 months, fasting blood sugar levels fell significantly, compared with a group who received only insulin.
Other tests using Gymnema found that people with type 2 diabetes responded well to both the leaf and its extract over various periods.
Some people experienced:
lower blood sugar levels
higher insulin levels
Using either the ground leaf or leaf extract may be beneficial. But once again, talk to your doctor about using it before starting.
Ginger
Ginger is another herb that people have used for thousands of years in traditional medicine systems.
People often use ginger to help treat digestive and inflammatory issues.
However, in 2015, a review suggested that it may also help treat diabetes. The results showed that ginger lowered blood sugar levels, but did not lower blood insulin levels.
Because of this, they suggest that ginger may reduce insulin resistance in the body for type 2 diabetes.
However, the researchers were uncertain as to how ginger might do this, and they called for more research to confirm these findings.
People can take ginger:
by adding ginger powder or chopped, fresh ginger root to raw or cooked food
brewed into tea
as a supplement in capsule form
by drinking it in a ginger ale
What is the Ayurvedic diet?
Ayurveda is a form of holistic medicine that’s focused on promoting balance between your body and mind.
According to Ayurveda, five elements make up the universe — vayu (air), jala (water), akash (ether), teja (fire), and prithvi (earth).
These elements are believed to form three different doshas, which are defined as types of energy that circulate within your body.
Each dosha is responsible for specific physiological functions.
pitta dosha controls hunger, thirst, and body temperature
vata dosha maintains electrolyte balance and movement
kapha dosha promotes joint function.
The Ayurvedic diet is a component of Ayurveda and has been practiced for thousands of years. It’s based on determining your dominant dosha and eating specific foods to promote balance between all three doshas.
The Ayurvedic way of eating also benefits :
digestion, absorption and
usage of foods
How does it work?
The Ayurvedic diet is a type of eating plan that sets guidelines for when, how, and what you should eat based on your dosha, or body type.
Specific body types are also identified with each dosha. Many are a mix of all 3 doshas with one being more dominant.
Here are some of the main characteristics for each dosha to help you determine which type matches you best:
Pitta (fire + water). Intelligent, hard-working, and decisive. This dosha generally has a medium physical build, short temper, and may suffer from conditions like indigestion, heart disease, or high blood pressure.
focuses on cooling, energizing foods and limits spices, nuts, and seeds.
Vata (air + space). Creative, energetic, and lively. People with this dosha are usually thin with a light frame and may struggle with digestive issues, fatigue, or anxiety when out of balance.
favors warm, moist, and grounding foods while restricting dried fruits, bitter herbs, and raw veggies
Kapha (earth + water). Naturally calm, grounded, and loyal. Those with a kapha dosha often have a sturdier frame and may have issues with weight gain, asthma, depression, or diabetes.
limits heavy foods like nuts, seeds, and oils in favor of fruits, veggies, and legumes.
According to this diet, your dosha determines which foods you should eat to promote inner balance.
Red meat, artificial sweeteners, and processed ingredients are limited for all three doshas. Instead, the Ayurvedic diet encourages eating healthy whole foods.
Foods can also be divided into Cooling and Warming
Benefits
Encourages whole foods
Although the Ayurvedic diet has specific guidelines for each dosha, the diet as a whole encourages eating whole foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes.
This can benefit your health greatly, as these foods are rich in many essential nutrients.
The diet also minimizes processed foods, which often lack fibre and important vitamins and minerals.
Studies show that eating higher amounts of processed foods may be associated with a higher risk of heart disease, cancer, and even death
Thus, the Ayurvedic diet may help protect against chronic disease and promote better health. However, more studies are needed.
Could promote weight loss
Given that the Ayurvedic diet emphasizes nutrient-rich whole foods, it might boost weight loss.
While limited research is available on the Ayurvedic diet and weight loss, some studies have found that it may be effective in this regard.
Promotes mindfulness
In addition to what foods you eat, mindfulness is another major part of the Ayurvedic diet.
Mindfulness is a practice that involves paying close attention to how you feel in the present.
In particular, mindful eating emphasizes minimizing distractions during meals to focus on the taste, texture, and smell of your food.
Downsides
Can be confusing
One of the major issues with the Ayurvedic diet is that it can be confusing and difficult to follow.
Not only are there specific food lists for each dosha but also many additional rules to follow.
For example, the recommendations regarding which foods you should eat and avoid change throughout the year based on the season.
There are also suggestions for when, how often, and how much you should eat, which can be challenging — especially for those just getting started on the diet.
May feel overly restrictive
On the Ayurvedic diet, there are extensive lists of foods that you are advised to eat or avoid depending on your dosha.
This can mean cutting out healthy, whole foods or entire food groups that are thought to aggravate specific doshas.
Other ingredients like red meat or processed foods are also left out, which may require you to make significant modifications to your current diet.
This can feel overly restrictive and less flexible than other meal plans and may make it difficult to stick to the diet long term.
Often subjective
Another issue with the Ayurvedic diet is that it’s subjective.
The diet is centered around determining your dominant dosha, which is based on a set of physical and mental traits.
Although there are plenty of guidelines and online quizzes available to help ease the process, figuring out your dosha is not foolproof.
As the recommendations for the diet are tailored to each dosha, choosing the incorrect dosha could negatively impact your results.
Furthermore, no evidence currently supports the concept of doshas or the claim that your personality traits determine which foods you should eat and avoid.
Therefore, it’s unclear how beneficial the diet is, even if you correctly determine your dosha.
Foods to eat
In Ayurveda, foods are categorized based on their physical qualities and the way they are said to affect your body.
This helps determine which ingredients work best for different doshas .
Pitta
Protein: poultry in small amounts, egg whites, tofu
Dairy: milk, ghee, butter
Fruits: sweet, fully ripe fruits like oranges, pears, pineapples, bananas, melons, and mangoes
Vegetables: sweet and bitter veggies, including cabbage, cauliflower, celery, cucumber, zucchini, leafy greens, sweet potatoes, carrots, squash, and Brussels sprouts
Legumes: chickpeas, lentils, mung beans, lima beans, black beans, kidney beans
Grains: barley, oats, basmati rice, wheat
Nuts and seeds: small amounts of pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, sunflower seeds, coconut
Herbs and spices: small amounts of black pepper, cumin, cinnamon, cilantro, dill, turmeric
Vata
Protein: small amounts of poultry, seafood, tofu
Dairy: milk, butter, yogurt, cheese, ghee
Fruits: fully ripe, sweet, and heavy fruits, such as bananas, blueberries, strawberries, grapefruit, mangoes, peaches, and plums
Vegetables: cooked vegetables, including beets, sweet potatoes, onions, radishes, turnips, carrots, and green beans
Legumes: chickpeas, lentils, mung beans
Grains: cooked oats, cooked rice
Nuts and seeds: any, including almonds, walnuts, pistachios, chia seeds, flax seeds, and sunflower seeds
Herbs and spices: cardamom, ginger, cumin, basil, cloves, oregano, thyme, black pepper
Kapha
Protein: poultry in small amounts, seafood, egg whites
Dairy: skim milk, goat milk, soy milk
Fruits: apples, blueberries, pears, pomegranates, cherries, and dried fruit like raisins, figs, and prunes
Vegetables: asparagus, leafy greens, onions, potatoes, mushrooms, radishes, okra
Legumes: any, including black beans, chickpeas, lentils, and navy beans
Grains: oats, rye, buckwheat, barley, corn, millet
Nuts and seeds: small amounts of pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, flax seeds
Herbs and spices: any, including cumin, black pepper, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, basil, oregano, and thyme
Ayurvedic diet and food also centres around seasons...see Seasonal Foods Section for more on this.
To find your Ayurvedic dosha, do the quiz at some of these websites:
Using Mind-Body therapies for stress relief - Yoga
It is now well documented in "Western" medical practices that there is a direct relationship between mind and body health. Something "Eastern" medicine has known and practiced for millennia. Yoga has been practiced in countries such as India as a basic part of health & well being. It has been undertaken as a spiritual and athletic form of exercise and stretch since the early 1900's in Western society, increasing in popularity as an all round therapy since that latter part of the 20th century. It is now a well accepted therapy for stress relief in many countries.
It can be done as a yoga alone practice or as part of a class such as Body Balance. It can be done at home on your own or as part of a group class. Yoga can be part of your physical/stretch and spiritual/meditation/relaxation practice or just as a physical/stretch/relaxation exercise.
Rather than reinventing the wheel , I have taken the following information from an article from the respected Mayo clinic:
Yoga: Fight stress and find serenity
Yoga — a mind-body practice — is considered one of many types of complementary and integrative health approaches. Yoga brings together physical and mental disciplines that may help you achieve peacefulness of body and mind. This can help you relax and manage stress and anxiety.
Yoga has many styles, forms and intensities. Hatha yoga, in particular, may be a good choice for stress management. Hatha is one of the most common styles of yoga, and beginners may like its slower pace and easier movements. But most people can benefit from any style of yoga — it's all about your personal preferences.
The core components of hatha yoga and most general yoga classes are:
· Poses. Yoga poses, also called postures, are a series of movements designed to increase strength and flexibility. Poses range from lying on the floor while completely relaxed to difficult postures that may have you stretching your physical limits.
· Breathing. Controlling your breathing is an important part of yoga. Yoga teaches that controlling your breathing can help you control your body and quiet your mind.
· Meditation or relaxation. In yoga, you may incorporate meditation or relaxation. Meditation may help you learn to be more mindful and aware of the present moment without judgment.
The health benefits of yoga
The potential health benefits of yoga include:
· Stress reduction. A number of studies have shown that yoga may help reduce stress and anxiety. It can also enhance your mood and overall sense of well-being.
· Improved fitness. Practicing yoga may lead to improved balance, flexibility, range of motion and strength.
· Management of chronic conditions. Yoga can help reduce risk factors for chronic diseases, such as heart disease and high blood pressure. Yoga might also help alleviate chronic conditions, such as depression, pain, anxiety and insomnia.
Yoga precautions
Yoga is generally considered safe for most healthy people when practiced under the guidance of a trained instructor. But there are some situations in which yoga might pose a risk.
See your health care provider before you begin yoga if you have any of the following conditions or situations:
· A herniated disk
· A risk of blood clots
· Eye conditions, including glaucoma
· Pregnancy — although yoga is generally safe for pregnant women, certain poses should be avoided
· Severe balance problems
· Severe osteoporosis
· Uncontrolled blood pressure
You may be able to practice yoga in these situations if you take certain precautions, such as avoiding certain poses or stretches. If you develop symptoms, such as pain, or have concerns, see your doctor to make sure you're getting benefit and not harm from yoga.
Getting started
Although you can learn yoga from books and videos, beginners usually find it helpful to learn with an instructor. Classes also offer camaraderie and friendship, which are also important to overall well-being.
When you find a class that sounds interesting, talk with the instructor so that you know what to expect.
Questions to ask include:
· What are the instructor's qualifications? Where did he or she train and how long has he or she been teaching?
· Does the instructor have experience working with students with your needs or health concerns? If you have a sore knee or an aching shoulder, can the instructor help you find poses that won't aggravate your condition?
· How demanding is the class? Is it suitable for beginners? Will it be easy enough to follow along if it's your first time?
· What can you expect from the class? Is it aimed at your needs, such as stress management or relaxation, or is it geared toward people who want to reap other benefits?
Achieving the right balance
Every person has a different body with different abilities. You may need to modify yoga postures based on your individual abilities. Your instructor may be able to suggest modified poses. Choosing an instructor who is experienced and who understands your needs is important to safely and effectively practice yoga.
Regardless of which type of yoga you practice, you don't have to do every pose. If a pose is uncomfortable or you can't hold it as long as the instructor requests, don't do it. Good instructors will understand and encourage you to explore — but not exceed — your personal limits.
More Yoga and Stress articles
7 Ways Yoga Lowers Stress and Anxiety. Regular practice soothes the mind and body.
How Yoga can help with Stress
6 Ways Yoga Can Help You Reduce Stress
What is - kinesiology?
The term KINESIOLOGY refers to the study and application of muscle function and body movement.
Techniques of modern medical science have enabled us to be aware of the location of muscles, nerves, blood vessels, organs and glands and the interaction between them. All cells, tissues and organs are coordinated through the nervous system.
Long before scientists knew about nervous pathways, ancient cultures were aware of energy flow throughout the body. Terms such as “chi” and “chakras” were part of ancient languages and are still used today in many natural therapy practices.
The body has flows of energy which are termed “meridians”. Each meridian has been associated with organs within the body. The meridians are used in kinesiology as well as acupuncture and acupressure.
When the flow of energy through the meridians is blocked or unbalanced, ill health follows. This ill health may be physical, mental or emotional and very often, a combination of all three.
The kinesiologist, tests indicator muscles throughout the body to detect where energy flow is blocked, which organs are overenergised and hence “taking” all the energy from other organs and they can then rebalance the body.
Kinesiology can also be used to check for allergies and food intolerance. It can be used to aid in emotional issues that may be draining the person.
Touch for Health Kinesiology is a form of applied Kinesiology that checks the muscle strength of 14 muscles in the body.
A pressure of 1 Kg is applied to a muscle and held for 2 seconds. If the energy flow is strong, the muscle will hold, if not, the muscle will become soft or mushy. You have to experience the situation to feel what the difference is. The practitioner will perform a simple test to demonstrate this for you. Remember though, it is NOT a test of strength against the practitioner!
Once a muscle weakness is detected, the practitioner may correct as they go along or write down which muscles "give", perform an alarm point test and fix at the end.
The following factors can affect the muscle weakness and can be used to correct the imbalance:
The nervous system
The lymphatic system
The circulation system
The acupuncture/acupressure points
Cerebrospinal fluid circulation
Touch for Health Kinesiology can be used to:
Perform a general balance at the beginning of a consultation. This can then be used to perform an allergy and food tolerance test.
Correct a sore muscle from an injury (the patient though would need to ensure via visit to a GP that no bones were broken before manipulation of the muscle occurs!). Treat muscle cramps or relieve pain from an area.
Correct an emotional issue that may be concerning the person, including “power building” to confront the issue or empower them to “get that job”, meet that challenge etc,.
Treat walking gait, posture imbalances affect nervous feedback to the brain and impair learning in children. A visit to a chiropractor can help identify any postural disturbances. The “cross crawl” method is often used for reading difficulties including dyslexia.
Surrogate testing – sometimes the person with an imbalance may be unable to move the muscles and a surrogate is used. The surrogate is balanced, the person to be tested places a hand on the surrogate and the practitioner tests them through the surrogate. Surrogacy can also be used on babies and small children and pets.
I use kinesiology on my dogs.
You do need to be open minded with any form a natural therapy. However, with kinesiology you can’t fool the muscle so any skepticism will be detected!!!
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