Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Superfoods to Combat Cirrhosis And Clean Up The Liver


Cirrhosis is described as the replacement of damaged liver cells by fibrous scar tissue which interrupts the liver's significant functions. Cirrhosis occurs as a result of excessive alcohol (most common), common viral hepatitis, obstruction of the bile ducts, and exposure to certain drugs or toxins.

People who have cirrhosis often experience loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and weight loss, making them look gaunt. Diet alone does not add to the development of liver disease. Those who are well nourished, but drink large amounts of alcohol, are also susceptible to liver disease.

Adults with cirrhosis need a balanced diet rich in protein to let the liver cells rejuvenate. However, excessive protein will cause an increased amount of ammonia in the blood; too little protein can reduce healing of the liver. A doctor is the best to prescribe the correct amount of protein for a person with cirrhosis.

In addition to protein, a balanced diet with sufficient calories, fats, and carbohydrates can actually help the damaged liver to renew liver cells. In fact, in some liver diseases, nutrition becomes an important form of treatment.

Grains and legumes are great protein sources for those who suffer from cirrhosis. Red meat should not be eaten since the liver is not working to its most favorable capacity and most likely will have trouble dealing with fats. Nuts, seeds, and soy products are also good sources of low-fat protein.

Oatmeal, brown rice, whole grain breads and pastas are also a part of a healthy balanced diet, as they are all whole grain carbohydrates that provide a steady supply of energy, important for your body’s ability to heal.

Cereals, breads, potatoes and legumes are great sources for the B-complex vitamins. These boost metabolism, maintain healthy skin and muscle tone, enhance immune and nervous system function, promote cell growth and division — including that of the red blood cells that help prevent anemia. As well, they also help combat the symptoms and causes of stress, which is important when you’re nursing your body back to health.

Citrus fruits, red berries, tomatoes, potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, red and green bell peppers, cabbage, and spinach, are all great sources of vitamin C, which help to promote a healthy immune system. It’s vital to stay as healthy as possible during the healing process, so your body can focus on liver repair.

Together with plenty of rest and lots of fresh water to help flush the toxins from your body, a well-balanced nutrition plan should put you well on the road to recovery.

Superfoods To Help With Menopause


Menopause is a tough time for many females. It usually happens in late middle age when the usefulness of the ovaries begins to decline. Problems associated with the estrogen deficiency in menopause can include arteriosclerosis, osteoporosis, decreased skin elasticity and hot flashes. However, by eating some superfoods everyday, symptoms can be decreased, memory maintenance happens, and osteoporosis lessened.

Tofu is an outstanding protein that can be used instead of meat and can be very supportive in lowering cholesterol and heart disease. Tofu and other soy products can help reduce hot flashes from menopause.

There have been recent indications that fiber helps reduce the risk of colon and other types of cancer, as well as diverticulosis. Women need about 30 grams of fiber each day. Navy beans are a superfood and have 19 grams, so they’re a good choice. Serve them in place of rice or other side dishes.

As we age our memory may begin to slip and we may become forgetful. Eating blueberries can cut back on the short-term memory loss. Eat them with some plain yogurt, which is a superfood, for breakfast or a snack. Yogurt, which is full of calcium, can help prevent osteoporosis that happens in menopause, help strengthen immunity and help with weight loss. Choose live yogurts that contain high amounts of acidophilus, which can also help prevent yeast and urinary tract infections.

Avocados are full of antioxidants such as vitamin E, which helps protect both the vision and skin and are a superfood as well. They also contain monosaturated fats that improve the condition of hair and skin, which can need help when a woman goes through menopause. Make a great guacamole dip, or even put them on your sandwich with a tomato.

As well, avoid drinking a lot of caffeinated drinks each day, and boost your body’s vitamin C absorption by eating an orange with an iron-rich food like whole-grain oatmeal.
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None of the information on this site is intended to cure, prevent or treat disease or replace the advice of a qualified professional.