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| Caution, before trying any changes, check with your doctor to be sure this is beneficial for you. Clicking the pink words will give more information on the topic. |
Açaí Brazilian palm
Euterpe oleracea mart |
BENEFICIAL Açai palm is a genus of 25-30 species of palms. It is a very tall slender plant, growing upwards of 15 to 25 m. Acai grows in the Amazon Rainforest and is very perishable. The berries deteriorate rapidly after harvest, so outside its growing region it is generally only available as juice or frozen fruit pulp. Acai berries have essential minerals like potassium, iron, phosphorus and calcium. Açai berry is also an excellent source of dietary fiber, extremely rich in organic vegetable protein that lowers the bad cholesterol and raises the good cholesterol. Açai berries have Omega 6 and Omega 9 fatty acids. Locally grown hearts of palm has also been shown to be beneficial. The Açai berry is available as dried pulp. Because of its high phenolic content, the phytochemical-enriched Açai oil from Açai fruit offers a promising alternative to traditional tropical oils for food, supplements, and cosmetics. |
| Alfalfa sprouts
 |
AVOID Alfalfa sprouts are one sprout to avoid. It produces a process
in the sprouting that can create difficulties for kidneys. Alfalfa sprouts contain l-canavanine, an unusual amino acid that has been known to result in some toxicity and joint stiffness in humans. Alfalfa sprouts are best avoided. For an added zip to
salads, try broccoli sprouts, bean sprouts, radish sprouts, or sunflower seed sprouts. To learn more about sprouting your own, try Sproutman.  |
Apple - Cabbage Juice |
BENEFICIAL apples are very alkaline producing for a body that has cystic organs. Apple juiced fresh daily has a wonderful taste. Several articles follows about the health benefits of apples and a few apple recipes including one for freshly pressed apple juice.
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Artichoke
Cynara scolymus |
BENEFICIAL artichokes are particularly of helpful for cystic livers. The ancients considered artichokes to have many benefits.
Artichokes, including the leaves, were thought to be an aphrodisiac, a diuretic,
a breath freshener and even a deodorant. Decoctions of artichoke leaves
have been used as blood cleansers, cholerics, to improve bile production
and secretion and to detoxify the liver and the skin.The
globe artichoke is a member of the composite family, closely related to the thistle.
The part we eat is from the immature flower bud. Artichokes are nutrient
dense, so, for the 25 calories in a medium artichoke, you're getting
16 essential nutrients! Artichokes provide the important minerals magnesium,
chromium, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, iron and calcium. For example,
that 25 calorie artichoke provides 6% of the Recommended Daily Value
of phosphorus, 10% of magnesium, 8% of manganese, 10% of chromium, 5%
of potassium, 4% of iron and 2% of calcium and iron. Artichoke leaf
extracts have demonstrated great benefits on the gallbladder with the
ability to stimulate the secretion of bile in the liver, to detoxify
the liver which in turn helps to lower cholesterol levels in the blood.
In addition other compounds in the leaves have been shown to possess
a hypoglycemic effect.In the 1970s, European scientists first documented
cynarin's ability to lower cholesterol in humans. Over the years, other
researchers have continued to document artichoke's or cynarin's effect
in this area. One of the more recent studies, published in 2000, was
a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study that used an artichoke
leaf extract that was standardized to its cynarin content. For six weeks,
143 patients with high cholesterol were given the extract; at the end
of the test, results showed a decrease of 10%-15% in total cholesterol,
low density lipoprotein (LDL), and ratio of LDL to high-density lipoprotein
(HDL) cholesterol. Scientists now report that the cholesterol-lowering
effect of artichoke can be attributed to chemicals other than just cynarin,
including several newly discovered ones.
The liver detoxifying and protective properties of artichoke first came
to the attention of researchers in 1966 (in a study that supported its
effect on liver regeneration in rats). A 1987 study that focused on
the effects of rat liver cells subjected to harmful chemical agents
found both cynarin to have significant protective effects.
Current
research is showing benefits to the liver from cynarin, a compound found
in the artichoke's leaves. Silymarin is another compound found in artichokes
that has powerful antioxidant properties and may help the liver regenerate
healthy tissue. The appearance of the artichoke flower is similar to
milk thistle flower. Both herbs contain high amounts of silymarin, a
potent liver healing herb. It may potentiate cholesterol lowering drugs. |
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Asparagus
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During
asparagus season, I often notice that my urinary pH registers acid,
a pH of 5.5. The reason given for this, is that asparagus is such a potent
alkalizer, eliminating much of the old residual acids, that this creates an acid pH. It is the one
time I experience acidic pH joyfully because I know it is riding my
body of stored acids and converting them to a cleansed alkaline. This
will happen even if I take special care to drink extra fluid. A few
drops of nettle extract in a cup of hot water will hasten this process
converting my urinary pH to alkaline. With
the first new growth of spring. I often pluck off a piece of asparagus
eating it raw straight from the garden.- deliciously sweet.
The
formation of uric acid and uric acid crystals are linked to the kidneys. A safe kidney
flush and spleen booster is to have a bowl of fresh asparagus. Because
of the ability of asparagus to provide this flush effect, for many years
asparagus was believed to be acid producing. It is now known that this
seemingly production of acids is caused from the cleansing properties
and that asparagus has indeed emerged as a super beneficial alkaline food.
In
Germany when white asparagus is in season, it is the star offering on
restaurant menus all of the country. Ordering an entire meal of tasty
white asparagus, diners happily eat a pound or more at one sitting.
An added plus is that asparagus lowers uric acid, known to be elevated in
Polycystic Kidney Disease. Nettles also lowers uric acid.
|
|
Bilberry Huckleberry Myrtle
vaccinium Myrtillus
|
BENEFICIAL The major American use for
bilberry fruit is to treat ocular disorders; it is used to aid night
vision, prevent the development and progression of cataracts, treat
diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration, and prevent glaucoma.
European herbalists also rely on bilberry to treat mild diarrhea and
mild oral irritation. Its constituents include tannins, anthocyanosides
and flavonoids.
It
also enjoys a long medical history. Hildegard of Bingen, the famous
Fifteenth Century nun, musician and herbalist, recommended bilberry
to induce menses. It has been used historically as a treatment for fevers,
coughs, renal stones and urinary tract infections intestinal and liver
disorders, hemorrhoids, and infections of the skin and mucus membranes.
It was also used to treat a variety of eye disorders including myopia,
eyestrain, impaired night vision and cataracts. It is akin to the blueberry,
one of the fruits highest in anti-oxidant properties.
Common
names: Bilberry, blaeberry, heidelberry, huckleberry, hurtleberry, whortleberry. |
|
Broccoli Sprouts
(DIMs)
Brassica oleracea |
BENEFICIAL Broccoli is another super food. It is really beneficial
for the treatment of kidney disease. This could come from the fact it
is very high in vitamin K. Individuals who consume Vitamin K vegetables
have a lower incidence of difficulties with calcification of their vessels
as kidney functioning begins to decline.
Broccoli
sprouts, contain DIM (Diindolymethane). Dim is an indole phytochemical
that is a natural metabolic of compounds found in cruciferous vegetables
such as broccoli, brussel sprouts and cabbage. Broccoli sprouts, part
of the cruciferous family of vegetables, is rich in sulforaphane and
indole-3-carbinol. Broccoli extract naturally contains high amounts
of indoles, which are known for their ability to deactivate certain
types of estrogen that are linked to cancer. Not surprisingly, people
who eat a fair amount of vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, brussel
sprouts, kale and cauliflower tend to have less cancer than those who
don't consume cruciferous vegetables. Researchers have conducted many
studies that indicate a strong BENEFICIAL connection between the indoles and cancer. These
are rich sources of indole-3-carbinol (I3C), which the body converts
into 3,3'-diindolylmethane DIM during digestion.
It
was found that androgen-dependent cancer cells (such as prostate cancer
cells) treated with a solution of DIM grew 70 percent less than untreated
cells. However, androgen-independent cells were not affected by the
DIM solution. Similar studies were verified the same results with breast
cancer cells that were estrogen dependent.
Liver
cysts have estrogen receptors. For this reason, daily I eat broccoli,
cabbage, or kale. DIM contained in broccoli sprouts are said to increase
the metabolism of estrogen through the liver.
CAUTION Do not take if you are taking immunosuppressive medications. Before
starting DIMs, have your doctor check your thyroid functioning. as cruciformes may affect thyroid medications. |
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Blueberry
(Vaccinium corymbosum)
|
BENEFICIAL I avoid the whole fruit and drink the juice.The latest news about blueberries,
a powerful antioxidant and a food with anti-aging properties, was presented
at the American Chemical Society meetings. It was reported that a compound
found in blueberries called pterostilbene has the potential to be developed
into a nutraceutical for lowering cholesterol, particularly for those
who do not respond well to conventional drugs. (8/24/04). Study authors
from the USDA's Agricultural Research Service indicate that the compound
found in Vaccinium berries could be a potent weapon in the battle against
obesity and heart disease through its cholesterol-reducing potential.
Some blueberry research.
Blueberry
it is a super food and New Jersey's official state fruit. A blueberry
enriched antioxidant diet prevented the increase of NF-kappaB (a protein
linked to brain ageing). Blueberries have been linked with slowing ageing
and improving cognition. Its natural blue color signals a concentration
of anthocyanins, a substance that my help prevent heart disease (cranberries
have anthocyanins, too, but blueberries boast more.)
Canadian
scientists from the Institute of aboriginal peoples' health plan have
announced a major project to look to traditional Cree Native Indian
medicines, such as blueberries, that fight diabetes, a major health
problem among indigenous peoples. Generally blueberries are acidic, leaving behind an acid pH. |
Bromelain from
Pineapple
Bromeliaceae
Pineapple native to Brazil, Paraguay had been spread by the indigenous Indians throughout Central
America and the West Indies. Spanish traders introduced it to the Philippines
who transported it to Guam and Hawaii.
.
Ananas comosus |
BENEFICIAL The proteolytic enzyme bromelain (from pineapple)
appears to be effective for people with a UTI, urinary tract infection. In a double-blind study,
28 individuals with a UTI received antibiotics plus either bromelain
(400 mg per day for two days) or a placebo. Signs of infection resolved
in all of those who received bromelain, compared with only 46% of those
given placebo. Bromelain has been reported to increase the absorption
of amoxicillin, an antibiotic.
Most enzymes
are absorbed poorly, the proteolytic enzymes of pineapple are useful for
relieving symptoms of malabsorption. Most doctors are more familiar with
pancreatin as being a strong proteolytic digestive aid. It has been found
to be helpful with the pain of muscle and sports injuries. I found pineapple juice great when I slipped in the ice and fell on my back. Bromelain found in
pineapple, is a natural blood thinner by preventing platelets from sticking
together. If you are currently on any blood thinners ask your doctor about
the combined effect of eating pineapple.
Probably due
to its anti-inflammatory properties it has been used to treat the pain
and swelling of rheumatoid arthritis.
I was present when a daily dose of pineapple
juice dissolved a bezoar. A bezoar is an indigestible ball of material
that is retained in the stomach. At that time, in 1977, surgeons usually
operated on such a case. This innovative surgeon wanted to try putting
the patient on pineapple juice. A week later the bezoar was gone, documented with an imaging studying, all done without
surgery.
I have sampled white pineapple. When this is picked fully ripe it is much
sweeter and less acidic than the golden variety. I love its overtones
of vanilla with its sweetness that does not have much tart. Pineapple is high in Vitamin C, loaded with manganese, anti-inflammatory bromelain, aids digestion, reduces blood clotting, removes plaque, helps digest proteins, is easy to grow and had its origins in Paraguay.
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Buckwheat Tea
Soba Cha
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BENEFICIAL (Roasted buckwheat tea or
soba cha). lowers blood pressure and helps regulate blood sugar. Buckwheat chapattis are prescribed in India to help control diabetes.
Buckwheat:
removes toxins, reduces uterine problems, aids hypertension. Soba (buckwheat)
tea contains rutin which is believed to help in lowering blood pressure.
Extracts of buckwheat seed lowered blood glucose levels by up to 19%
when it was fed to diabetic rats at the University of Manitoba in Canada.
Buckwheat is related to rhubarb. Rhubarb has been known to be useful
for helping kidneys. It is a tall grass and the seeds are what are roasted.
It is not really a grain. Buckwheat does not contain gluten. Individuals
with celiac disease can eat it. For this reason, many use buckwheat
as the preferred grain for weight loss.
Buckwheat chapattis are traditionally used in India to correct diabetes.
Buckwheat crepes are made in the Latin Quarter of Paris, the South of
France, and in parts of Canada and they taste delicious. Buckwheat noodles
or soba noodles are a wonderful Asian noontime entree. Kasha is a puffed
buckwheat cereal.
Just
an aside. In the USA I watched a television program as a child called
Davy Crocket. This man had a raccoon tail hat and as children we used
to sing along to the numerous songs from his televised show. One was
called it is your buckwheat cakes and bacon. It was about the love this
man felt for the cook at the local eatery who made delicious buckwheat
pancakes and it was this that captured his heart.
Buckwheat is alkaline producing, along with millet, sprouted grains,
amaranth, quinoa, brown rice, wild rice and spelt. Arrowroot is an alkaline
thickening agent. Alkaline bread are Essene bread, manna bread, sprouted
grains breads and now buckwheat crepes, noodles, and more. For those
who want capsules. here is a product called Argenix |
|
Chaparral (Larrea tridentata)
|
AVOID Chaparral tea is a traditional Native American treatment for cramping
pains, joint pains, and allergic problems. Modern research has revealed
that Chaparral contains nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) has potent
anti-inflammatory activity. This might be the ingredient that is toxic
to kidneys.
J
Urol. 1994 Dec: 152(6pt 1):2089-91 . . .acquired
renal cystic disease associated with consumption of chaparral tea: a
case report. Chaparral
also contains antioxidant flavonoids and has demonstrated anti-amoeba
activity in test tubes.The
desert chaparral bush has the Latin name Larrea tridentata or Larrea diver-icata and is also know as
the greasewood or creosote bush. |
|
Chilies
 |
CAUTION Reduces platelet clumping, opens up blood vessels, stimulates blood circulation
and warms the body. Eating chilies increases thermogenesis, the body's
caloric burn rate. If you eat chilies with your meal, your body will
burn calories at an increased rate of about 25 percent.
Capsaicin
prevents carcinogens from binding to DNA where they trigger the second
hit phenomena which occurs with PKD. This second hit starts cells mutating
which triggers cysts to form.
It provides
relief of pain especially painful cluster headaches. It opens clogged
sinuses. It also stimulates gastric secretions. Defends your body against
food-borne bacteria. Vibrio vulnificus bacteria sometimes found in raw
shellfish is inhibited by capsaicin. An externally applied cream first
produced in Germany (I had the pleasure of meeting the dermatologist
who thought to try this) has been used to help with the pain of shingles.
By ingesting hot chilies or rubbing the skin with a cream, this causes
an outpouring of calcium which numbs the pain receptors in a localized
area. At first it really burns. Christopher Columbus noticed hot peppers
(chiles) almost immediately after he struck land on this side of the
Atlantic. He soon sent a cargo back to Spain, suggesting that they might
be a good substitute for black pepper, one of the precious spices that
had caused merchant explorers to take to the sea in the first place.
Capsicum cream has been used to treat painful post herpetic neuralgia of herpes zoster. I met the dermatologist in Europe who had first tried this as a treatment. He explained that it is much
like eating a hot dish, the more frequently you eat a hot spicy dish,
eventually you need more and more chili to add some fire to the meal. Eventually the nerve endings become exhausted and the cream allows some relief from the painful episodes.
AVOID There maybe something in chilies that is not of benefit to the kidneys.
As a member of the nightshade family it contains high amounts of
solanine which interferes with calcium absorption. From time to time,
I indulge in a hot chili or two to spice up guacamole. I sometimes experience
kidney and liver ache following this.
CAUTION If you have
liver cysts, it is a vegetable high in estrogens, as are all the nightshade
family of vegetables. |
|
Coffee
Botanical: Coffea arabica (LINN.)
Family: N.O. Rubiaceae
|
AVOID coffee with cysts, especially with liver cysts. This
stimulates cAmp which in turn stimulates cyst growth.The Coffee shrub
was introduced into Arabia early in the fifteenth century from Abyssinia,
and for two centuries Arabia supplied the world's Coffee; at the end
of the seventeenth century the Dutch introduced the plant into Batavia,
and from there a plant was presented to Louis XIV in 1714. All the Coffee
now imported from Brazil has been imported from that single plant. The
European use of Coffee dates from the sixteenth century when it was
introduced into Constantinople, and a century later in 1652 the first
Coffee shop was opened in London. In 1858 the quantity imported into
the United Kingdom was over sixty million pounds. In Turkey the consumption
is enormous, and so necessary is it considered that the refusal to supply
a reasonable amount to a Turk's wife is considered a legal cause for
divorce. AVOID harmful for all types of cysts.
Coffee
(Coffea arabica)
To read more articles about harm to PKD from coffee/ caffeine
To read more information about caffeine and cysts click here
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Comfrey
 |
Symphytum officinale (common comfrey) a member
of the Borage family (Boraginaceae).
This herb
is known to block the blood supply to the liver. AVOID with liver cysts. Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids
which have hepatotoxic and carcinogenic effects (may be toxic to the
liver and cause cancer when taken internally. The topical application
of comfrey-containing preparations to broken skin should be avoided.
Comfrey
should not be taken during pregnancy or lactation.This is to be used
externally only. If ingested it can be harmful to the liver. AVOID harmful to liver cysts.
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Chamomile
|
BENEFICIAL Chamomile great for stress,
irritability, flagging appetite, reliving nausea and upset stomachs.
It is also said to be very good for premenstrual tension. One of the
reasons chamomile induces sleep and relaxation is because it is high
in calcium. I take my calcium supplements at night to enhance my sleep.
A favorite evening beverage is a cup of chamomile tea with tupelo honey. I really enjoy drinking chamomile tea. My body goes ahh ahh with each sip. I bring some along when I travel for those social moments when others might want a cup of coffee, I ask for hot water and drink my chamomile tea. My favorite at the moment is Mighty Leaf (tea brand) Chamomile Citrus. It comes packaged in these cute little silk bags that form pyramids.
Clinical
studies have shown that chamomile has mild sedative effects when administered
as a tea. Animal studies have shown that Chamomile volatile oil when
administered orally to rabbits with impaired kidney function, normalized
the uremic condition. This shows that chamomile may be useful in the
treatment of impaired kidney functions. The flavonoid apigenin had shown
antihistaminic effects in animal studies.
Immune Stimulant: Chamomile stimulates the immune system's infection
fighting white blood cells (macrophages and B-lymphocytes).
It is a very popular herbal product in Germany for wound care. The essential
oil was found to reduce the time required to heal burns. The herb kills
the yeast fungi that causes vaginal infections, as well as certain bacteria.
Chamomile impairs the replication of polio virus.
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Clover
|
AVOID This
is to be avoided with liver cysts. In the 1940's, the sheep farmers
of Perth in western Australia began to experience an epidemic of still
births despite three seasons of exceptionally good weather. The handsome
merino sheep looked healthy. However, the ewe's failed to go into labor;
the lambs died in still birth and often the mothers as well. In a matter
of 5 years, the ewes failed to conceive at all even after repeated breeding
with fertile rams.
Federal and agricultural specialists found the problem. Clover. Fifteen
years earlier, ranchers had imported a clover from the Mediterranean
region in Europe. The first scientific paper on this phenomenon appeared
in the Australian Veterinary Journal in 1946 and proclaimed this as
"clover disease". Three years later three chemicals were identified
as suspects. Finally, formononetin only one of the chemicals was determined
to be the culprit. Formononetin mimics estrogen.
|
| Cranberry
Vaccinium
macrocarpon
|
BENEFICIAL Avoid the whole fruit. The juice from cranberries, loganberries,lingonberries,
huckleberries, blueberries are beneficial. Two (2)
ounces of pure cranberry juice diluted with one ounce of mineral water
is a very effective kidney herb. Avoid cranberry cocktail which contains
sugar. If raw fresh cranberries are not available, frozen is a good
substitute to juice. Northland brand cranberry juice 100% juice contains 17%
cranberry juice. If you enjoy eating animal proteins, drink cranberry juice to
convert the ammonia buffer to ammonium. This will also lessen possible
resultant urinary tract infections.
A few other
plants claim the name "cranberry", including Vaccinium
vitis-idaea, known to American botanists as Lingonberry, or mountain
cranberry, but to the Swedes, it is cranberry. Cramp-bark, as it is
most commonly known in the American market, Viburnum opulus, is sometimes
listed as "highbush cranberry", but it is a "cranberry" in name only.
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Dandelion Greens
Taraxacum officinale
|
BENEFICIAL very rich in potassium. This means that the status
quo of potassium in the body remains balanced which cannot be said of
many diuretics. This balanced effect means that although the kidneys
are powerfully stimulated there is no exhaustion or depletion involved.
This will help to maintain water balance without over-straining and
tiring the kidneys (and by maintaining potassium levels). The herbs
enable the body to release excessively stored water, encouraging a feeling
of well being. Dandelion root helpful for the liver. The leaves are
eaten in Virginia lightly sauteed. They are known as mountain greens
or forest greens.
The brightly
colored flowers are bitter when steeped into a tea, but said to be the
best antidote for anger, especially if there is an autoimmune mechanism
with a disease.
CAUTION If you are at the stage where you must restrict potassium. |
|
Elderberry
 
|
BENEFICIAL This is a wonderful herb for the cold and flu season.
First sign of a sniffle friends sip elderberry syrup called
Sambu©, taking a tablespoon about three times a day. Elderberry was researched by
an Israeli herbalist and found to be the one herb that actually exerts
an anti-viral influence. It knocks the virus out quickly and is alkaline producing. It might be prudent to stop elderberry two
weeks before any surgery as it is high in vitamin C and high doses of
vitamin C can cause bleeding tendencies. Some neighbors have made elderberry wine and elderberry jam from this fruit. Its name has come about through possibly imparting longevity on those who eat its fruit.
|
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Garlic
|
Garlic while
wonderful to assist in lowering cholesterol and lowering blood pressure,
it maybe best to stop this two weeks before surgery due to its blood
thinning qualities.
I have some
freshly pressed garlic daily on spelt non-yeasted toast with almond butter or a little tahini.
If you are
prone to gastritis or stomach ulcers raw garlic maybe too harsh for
you. Place an entire head of garlic in the oven. Rub extra virgin olive
oil over it; slice the top but do not skin it. Allow the garlic to slow
roast in the oven, when prepared this way, garlic bakes into a wonderful
sweet nutty flavored spread. CAUTION Put aside two weeks prior to surgery as this affects bleeding. |
|
Ginger
|
CAUTION Ginger has been known to raise blood pressure and increase stomach acids.
Though ginger
is recommended for motion sickness, a few susceptible individuals have
noticed it increases stomach acids. Gulungal or Thai ginger does not seem to increase stomach acids. |
| Grapefruit
|
CAUTION interferes with immunosuppressive drugs and blood pressure medications. Freshly squeezed helps diminish swelling of legs during travel. One grapefruit a day lowers LDL cholesterol. For more information on grapefruit click here.
|
| Grape Seed Extract
pycnogenol -- OPC's -- procyanidins -- resveratrol |
Useful for lowering LDL cholesterol, diminishing varicose veins, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), lowering high blood pressure. A recent study shows that a particular polyphenol in red grape skins, resveratrol, inhibits platelet aggregation and is the component responsible for red wine's health benefits. Resveratrol is found in the skin of grapes. To read more about grape seed extract, click here. For more information on grape seed extract click here.
Grape Seed extract and Hypertension
Cardiovascular researchers at UC Davis, School of Medicine, completed the first human clinical trial to study the benefits of grape seed extract on patients with high blood pressure. The one month study was done on 24 male and female patients diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, which is a combination of factors that add up to high risk for heart disease, including elevated blood pressure, excess abdominal body weight, high blood cholesterol fats, and high blood sugar. The patients were divided into three groups of eight. The first group received a placebo while the second and third groups received 150 mgs and 300 mgs, respectively, of a grape seed extract developed and made by Polyphenolics, a division of Constellation Wine US. All participants' blood pressure was automatically measured and recorded for 12 hours after grape see extract ingestion. Participants in the two groups receiving grape seed extract experienced an average drop in systolic pressure or 12 mm and diastolic pressure 8 mm compared to placebo. To read more of the complete article, click here. |
Honey Clover
 |
AVOID clover honey, one of the most common and inexpensive honeys available. This is an estrogen disruptor and can increase liver cyst growth.
AVOID Clover, especially clover honey. This
is to be avoided with liver cysts.
In the 1940's, the sheep farmers
of Perth in western Australia began to experience an epidemic of still
births despite three seasons of exceptionally good weather. The handsome
merino sheep looked healthy. However, the ewe's failed to go into labor;
the lambs died in still birth and often the mothers as well. In a matter
of 5 years, the ewes failed to conceive at all even after repeated breeding
with fertile rams. Federal and agricultural specialists found the problem. It was clover.
Fifteen
years earlier, ranchers had imported a clover variety from the Mediterranean
region in Europe. The first scientific paper on this phenomenon appeared
in the Australian Veterinary Journal in 1946 and proclaimed this as
"clover disease".
Three years later three chemicals were identified
as suspects. Finally, formononetin only one of the chemicals was determined
to be the culprit. Formononetin strongly mimics estrogen. |
|
Honey Tupelo
|
BENEFICIAL Does not raise cholesterol or triglycerides and contains high amounts of levulose sugar that does not require liver enzymes for its absorption. Some diabetics have found this honey (in small quantities) a useful sweetening agent.
|
|
Kava-kava
|
AVOID Kava kava is toxic to the liver. Two (2) cases of hepatitis with elevated
liver enzymes have been reported.
The enzymes
normalized after stopping the herb; kava interferes with blood clotting.
This maybe a problem with those on dialysis. It can cause an increase
in bleeding time. Contraindicated in individuals
with depression ; it increases the risk of suicide. Contraindicated
during pregnancy and in nursing mothers. |
| Kola Nut |
AVOID raises blood pressure. Contains caffeine which increases cyclic AMP which causes kidney cysts
to increase.
|
|
Licorice
|
AVOID raises blood pressure. Licorice gives wild fluctuations
to blood pressure and raises blood pressure causing spikes. Licorice
root can be chewed to aide in stopping cigarette smoking. Consumption
of licorice is believed to aid in healing stomach ulcers. Tea made from
licorice and other anti-spasmodic herbs is often taken for menstrual
cramps.
AVOID Excessive amounts may raise
blood pressure and cause fluid retention. Should be avoided during pregnancy
and by anyone with high blood pressure, heart or kidney ailments. Many Celestial
Seasonings herbal teas contain licorice. It wasn't until a friend
pointed this out, that I discovered the reason for blood pressure spikes.
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Mint
|
CAUTION it relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter. CAUTION if you have acid reflux esophagitis. Otherwise fresh mint
flavors water refreshingly on a hot summer day. I add a few leaves to
soups and sauces. One of my favorite drinks is 2 cucumbers, 2 apples,
8 mint leaves all juiced together - a light refreshing liquid to quench
the thirst that is also high in nutrients, low in potassium and phosphorus.
|
|
Mulungai
Drumstick Plant, Behen, Indian Horseradish
(Moringa Oleifera)
 |
BENEFICIAL Drum Stick Plant, the Mulungai leaves. Known
to be high in potassium and high in iron, and protein. Folk medicine
has this vegetable to be helpful for kidney disease, especially the
long pods of the tree. In India the pods (30-60 cm long) are cooked
in a sauce known as Sambar.
In
the Philippines the leaves are cooked in a chicken broth (perhaps a
little wild chicken if you can catch one!) it is mixed with onion, garlic
and young green papaya (tastes a bit like chayote squash).
The seeds due to the presence of mustard oil, have an antimicrobial
effect. Indian medicine has this used for rheumatism. Efficacy for rheumatism
seems plausible because of the stimulating effect of the isothiocyanates.
It is also known as an aphrodisiac probably due to the relaxation of
the pelvic musculature.
This
is said to be high in iron, high in protein and maybe useful in helping
to alleviate some of the world's hunger.
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|
Nettle, Stinging
urtica semen
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BENEFICIAL Organic nonalcoholic nettle extract. It eliminates
uric acid (high in gout and PKD) and is an effective alkalizer. CAUTION It is very high in potassium and said to have diuretic properties.
Studies in Europe have shown increased urine flow and reduction in residual
urine (residual urine can lead to chronic urinary tract infections). I use non - alcoholic nettle extract from time to time to give a boost of alkalinity as it is high in potassium, lowers uric acid, and a very effective alkalizing
agent.
Nettle root
affects hormones and proteins that carry sex hormones (such as testosterone
or estrogen) in the human body; this may explain why it helps benign
prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). Nettle leaf (1000 mg daily) suppresses
the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha and in this way might be useful
for kidney health. CAUTION It is high in potassium. Here is an article sent by Marie about stinging nettle extract lowering creatinine. I suspect the chief reason it does this is because stinging nettle is an affective alkalizer, a potassium rich alkalizer. If any decide to take stinging nettle non-alcoholic extract be sure to get frequent checks of your serum potassium. High potassium can cause the heart to stop beating.
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Noni Juice
(Morinda citrifolia
) |
AVOID Noni has had some cases of harm to kidneys according to the growers of noni juice. They suggested with my history of both kidney and liver disease, I avoid noni. Noni is very high in potassium and has been a cause of dangerously high potassium levels. Lemon juice is a great flush, low in potassium, cheaper to obtain, and makes one alkaline. There are several cases in the literature that link noni to inflamed livers (hepatitis). It is considered a liver toxin.
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Parsley
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BENEFICIAL Lowers blood pressure. Wonderful blood pressure
regulator. Loaded with Chlorophyll which aids the body to detoxify.
It is a mild diuretic but gentle in its effect on kidneys. It does not
cause potassium depletion. I pull this up from my garden each morning
and munch away. Parsley is also a source of alpha-linolenic acid, an
important essential fatty acid. It is an adequate source of beta carotene,
which the body needs for the correct use of protein. This nutrient will
benefit the liver and also protect the lungs and colon. When tested
in laboratory research, chlorophyll from parsley showed slight anti-bacterial
and anti-fungal activity. Parsley contains traces of B12 producing compounds.
Fluorine abundantly found in parsley. Fluorine has an entirely different
molecular structure from chemically-produced fluoride. Tooth decay results
from a shortage of fluorine, not fluoride. It is the combination of
calcium and fluorine which creates a very hard protective surface on
teeth and bones. Fluorine also protects the body from infectious invasion,
germs and viruses .Parsley is the best herb source of vitamin C and
iron. These two work in conjunction to eliminate waste from the body.
CAUTION if you must restrict potassium. A few sprigs
of potassium will not push you over into potassium excess, but if you
were to drink a whole glassful of parsley juice, this might.
Parsley
is effective for nearly all kidney and urinary complaints. It improves
kidney activity. Parsley is not a treatment for severe kidney inflammation,
but it can help eliminate wastes from the blood and tissues of the kidneys.
It prevents salt from being reabsorbed into the body tissues; thus parsley
literally forces debris out of the kidneys, liver and bladder. It helps
improve edema and general water retention, fatigue and scanty or painful
urination. It is an eliminant that has been used in conjunction to aid
the dissolving of gall stones and in cases of gout. My friend CJ adds
it daily to her salads for an interesting mix of flavors.
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Potato
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AVOID In the vegetable garden, tomato, potato, eggplant
and pepper belong to the deadly nightshade family. Tobacco is the fifth
member, and all contain the toxic substance solanine. Tomato leaves
and stems contain the poison found in potato. Sensitive people have
skin eruptions if the leaves touch them. Potato and tobacco are the
most dangerous. Skins of potato will turn green when stored in the light.
This green part, and any sprouted eyes, must be removed before eaten.
Farm animals have died when fed potato plants and spoiled potatoes.
Humans experience grave illness and sometimes death from the green part
of the potato. The world health organization has called an emergency
meeting to look at an urgent health concern with potato chips, french
fries, and other fried and baked goods which contain high amounts of
acrylamide, especially present in the potato when it is heated to a
high temperature.
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Raspberry
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Leaf
and raspberries causes a softening in the pelvic muscles. Improves uterine
tone and blood supply. It prevents postpartum hemorrhage. It is said
to be useful the last trimester to facilitate an easier birth and shorter
labor. CAUTION if you are pregnant and prone to miscarriage avoid raspberries. Its
mode of action is through relaxation of the pelvic muscles. I found
this very useful for pudendal nerve entrapment and vestibulitis.
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Soy
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AVOID Soy increases liver cyst growth.This is empirical knowledge. Soy milk
given to babies causes females to menstruate and the testicles of male
babies do not descend. Banned from New Zealand Baby formulas.
I tried
eating tofuttie cuties, a soy ice cream sandwich, really delicious,
but my liver grew from the phytoestrogens in soy. Edamame (枝豆) is the name given to a dish of tasty baby soybeans in the pod boiled in water served whole. I do not eat soy due
to severe polycystic liver cysts that became noticeably enlarged after eating soy products.
Monsanto, a huge corporation, genetically modify soy beans so that could withstand massive amounts of herbicide weed killer called round up. The European Community became enraged by this act as they
use soy lecithin in many infant formulas, baked goods crackers, prepared foods, and more. Following many months of negotiations a label
appears in Europe that this product may contain some GM soy. Monsanto
gave away free GM soy beans to commercial farmers assuring themselves of a ready captured market for large quantities of round up herbicide, translating to even greater corporate profit margins. New Zealand has taken the initiative and banned soy products from all infant formulas and foods. |
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Star Fruit
AVOID (Averrhoa carambola)  |
AVOID I enjoyed star
fruit and mango, a traditional combination. Then I discovered that
starfruit is a known kidney toxin. Star fruit originated in Southeast
Asia and is readily available in Taiwan. Star fruit causes several symptoms
in patients with chronic renal failure or end-stage renal disease. The
symptoms vary and include insomnia, intractable hiccups, agitation,
muscle weakness, confusion, consciousness disturbances of various degrees,
seizures, and cardiorespiratory arrest. The various star fruit subspecies
contain different toxins, including a powerful neurotoxin that is suspected
to accumulate in blood, cross the blood-brain barrier in chronic renal
failure patients, and eventually cause irreversible damage.
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| Stevia  |
CAUTION If used very sparingly, 4-5 grains it is an effective sweeten agent.
If used in great quantities, it is harmful to the kidneys. May induce
kidney toxicity specifically at the proximal convoluted tubules. This herb to be used with great CAUTION in kidney disease and only very very small amounts.
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Tomato
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AVOID This is a member of the nightshade family - potatoes, tomatoes, peppers,
eggplants, belladonna, tobacco. - I have experienced pain after indulging
in a freshly picked ripe and in season tomato. Plants in this family are estrogen producing plants. Nightshade plants contain high amounts
of solanine which interferes with calcium absorption and these vegetables
are high in potassium and limited as potassium restriction becomes an issue. I have heard that peeling these veggies and soaking them in ice water for an extended time, diminishes their potassium content. When heated to high heats, potato starch produces a large amount of the chemical
acrylamide. This appears to be a byproduct of cooking starch at high
temperatures. Many countries including Sweden, Canada, Switzerland, Norway, England, Germany, and the United States are conducting independent
studies on acrylamide as a toxin. Among the foods to contain acrylamide are french fries, potato chips, tostitos, honey nut cheerios, regular
cheerios, corn chips. Children are sometimes given high amounts of these foods. This elevates uric acids.
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Thyme
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BENEFICIAL Has antiseptic properties. Thymol is made From this. Useful fresh for
flavoring soups, dishes. I also make a thyme tea just before a dental
appointment to be assured that I will not seed any bacteria into my blood stream.
Amazingly
enough, a "partnership" of flavors—soothing Lavender
with pungent Thyme creates a truly enticing flavor, that works as an
excellent condiment for beef stocks, lamb, venison, and whole-grain spelt breads and spelt bagels (without yeast). |
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