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Antioxidants
Probiotics are the good bacteria that can help keep your gut in top working order and strengthen your immune system. You need to consume 100 million live bacteria or more every day. You will find the right amount in a probiotic drink or supplement, or 200g of probiotic yoghurt.
Antioxidants, which occur naturally in the body,
mop up excess free radicals. An excess of free radicals can attack healthy
cells, damage healthy DNA and weaken the immune system. To slow down the effects
of free radicals, eat plenty of fresh foods that are full of antioxidants.
Foods Rich in Antioxidants
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FRUIT |
Berries (Cherry, blackberry,
strawberry, raspberry, crowberry, blueberry, bilberry/wild
blueberry, black currant), pomegranate, grape, orange, plum,
pineapple, kiwi fruit, grapefruit.
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VEGETABLES |
Kale, chili pepper, red cabbage,
peppers, parsley, artichoke, Brussels sprouts, spinach, lemon,
ginger, red beets.
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DRY FRUITS |
Apricots, prunes, dates.
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LEGUMES |
Broad beans, pinto beans,
soybeans.
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NUTS & SEEDS |
Pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts, ground
nut, sunflower seeds.
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CEREAL |
Barley, millet, oats, corn.
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SPICES |
Cloves, cinnamon, oregano
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Fatigue or low energy levels may indicate that something is wrong. Iron deficiency is a common cause, but hormonal imbalance and other factors could be at play. Taking a multivitamin, especially one high in the B-group vitamins, will ensure you are not missing out on any important nutrients since even minor deficiencies can contribute to fatigue. Herbal tonics may also help revitalize you when you are low on energy. In traditional Chinese medicine, Astragalus and Korean Ginseng has been used to fight fatigue for centuries. If you are getting enough sleep and are on a healthy diet but constantly feel tired, talk to your health care professional for further advice.
Your immune system is constantly on guard against
viruses, bacteria and other infective organisms. It is made up of made up of a
network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to protect the body.
When you are run down or under stress, your immune system becomes weak, leaving
you vulnerable to illnesses and infections. A nutritious diet, enough sleep and
exercise will help strengthen your immune system. Below is a list of herbs and
vitamins to help boost your immune system.
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can be used to
help fight colds and flu. |
| Zinc,
Vitamin A & C - |
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increases the
production of infection-fighting cells and antibodies. Also a potent
antioxidant. |
| Cat’s Claw
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has
antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and contains alkaloids that
stimulate immune function. |
| Tonics
with Andrographics, Olive Leaf - and Astragalus. |
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increases the
resistance to infection by boosting your immune system. |
The amount of calcium our body requires changes at different stages of our lives. Calcium requirements are highest in our teenage years, with the rapid growth of the skeleton, and our senior years, when the body’s efficiency to absorb calcium declines. The other nutrient important for healthy bones is Vitamin D, which is used to help the body absorb calcium. Other important nutrients include protein, zinc, magnesium and vitamins, A, B and K.
 Honey provides a great variety of micro- and macro elements and a wide complex of vitamins, about 400 components in total. Exact composition of honey largely depends on the area it is produced and the type of flowers it is gathered from.
Darker honeys are generally higher in antioxidant content than lighter honeys and have been shown to be similar in antioxidant capacity to many fruits and vegetables on a dry weight basis.
Honey is full of moisture binding humectants containing vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and amino acids, which are wonderful beauty aids that nourish the hair, skin and the body.
Honey helps against digestive system conditions - ulcers, gastritis, constipation and colitis.
Honey is nature's energy booster. Next time before you go for a workout, take a spoon of honey to enable you to go for the extra mile.
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