In our face-paced, technology-centric, global society, sleep is equated with luxury. Some people actually wear sleep deprivation like a status symbol, or a badge of honor. But science backs the benefits of adequate sleep as a mechanism to allow your body to recover after a day on the go. Sleep deprivation not only makes you…
Tag: Food as medicine
Magic Mushrooms ( No, not those magic mushrooms….)
Mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and, its no wonder, as they are a powerhouse of nutrition. Mushrooms are low in calories and fat, contain fiber and have high levels of antioxidants, including selenium and glutathione, which reduce chronic inflammation. They are the richest source of the antioxidant ergothioneine, a chemical that…
Ginger: An Ayurvedic Herb with Modern Sensibilities-A Rheumatology Perspective
Ginger root is used all over the world for spiritual enlightenment, as well as for its pro-mobility, thermogenic, and anti-inflammatory properties. In Ayurvedic medicine, the ginger plant is considered to be “sattvic,” or infused with a divine energy leading to mental clarity, empathy, and wisdom. Ancient Ayurvedic texts explain that the act of ingesting ginger…
Wei Qi: Can an Ancient, Eastern Philosophy Lean into Modern Medicine?
Wei Qi is a defensive energy shield that protects our bodies from external insults. It is an important concept from Traditional Chinese Medicine, a whole system of medicine that emphasizes nutrition and herbs, as well as acupuncture and meditative practices to maintain health. Wei Qi is propagated by energy from the lungs, and nourished by…
The Blue Zones
The Blue Zones are the five areas in the world that have exceptional longevity. But not only longevity. These are extraordinary places where people thrive not only in terms of health, but also with a sense of purpose and belonging. The term Blue Zone first appeared in 2005 in a National Geographic article, and the…
Beans and the Microbiome: What to know about Prebiotics
Prebiotics are an important part of an anti-inflammatory diet, because they support the microbiome, a complex collection of bacteria, virus, and fungi that inhabit your skin and digestive tract. The majority of the human microbiome resides in the large intestine, and is made up of more than a thousand different species. These bacteria are responsible for…
Healthy Oils, and How to Cook with Them
Dietary fat can get a bad rap, but knowing how to consume the right fats is vital for your health. Plant-based oils can provide essential fatty acids, allow your body to absorb vitamins and minerals, and are a nutritious source of energy for your cells. To reap these benefits, choose oils that are rich in…
The Dirty Dozen, and the Clean Fifteen: What you Need to Know
Dirty dozen The Environmental working group publishes an annual shopper’s guide of produce with a catchy name, the Dirty Dozen and the Clean 15. Each year the EWG analyzes data from the USDA to determine which fruits and vegetables in the US have the most and least pesticide contamination. Fruits and vegetables with delicate exteriors…
What to Eat if you have Rheumatoid Arthritis: Fish is on the Menu
By Dr. Jill Weintraub When I design recipes for people with rheumatoid arthritis, I start with the research. Then I synthesize the medical evidence through a “what to add, and what to remove from your diet” paradigm. High up on the “what to add” list are fish. The oils in fatty fish like salmon, sardines,…
How to Support your Microbiome
If you have ever felt alone in this world, please be assured that you are not! Millions of beneficial organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, have been with you all along, mostly populating your large intestine. If this is not reassuring, (and it should be-because they can do a lot of good for you) please…