healthy life

Facts and information on garlic including health beneifits, home remedies using garlic and how to grow your own garlic at home. *** What is Garlic? Garlic, Latin name Allium sativum, belongs to the onion family Alliaceae including shallots, and leek. Garlic has been used throughout recorded history for both medicinal and culinary purposes. The garlic bulb is divided into sections called cloves. Elephant garlic or Russian garlic is a variant of the species leek and not considered a true garlic. It has a tall, solid, flowering stalk and broad, flat leaves much like those of the leek, but forms a bulb consisting of very large, garlic like cloves.

Cloves

Is Garlic Good for You? Garlic is one of the most valuable and versatile foods on the planet. Garlic belongs to the Allium family of vegetables which also includes onions, chives, shallots and leeks. Today garlic is a widely recognized health enhancing supplement. Garlic promotes the wellbeing of the heart and immune systems with antioxidant properties and helps maintain healthy blood circulation. One of garlic's most potent health benefits includes the ability to enhance the body's immune cell activity. The active component in garlic is the sulfur compound called allicin. Allicin is the chemical produced when garlic is chopped, chewed, or bruised. Allicin is quite powerful as an antibiotic and a potent agent that helps the body to inhibit the ability of germs to grow and reproduce. In fact, it's said that 1 milligram of allicin has a potency of 15 standard units of penicillin. There are now over 12 studies published around the world that confirm that garlic can reduce cholesterol. Recently researchers in Oxford and America have published some summaries of all the good data on garlic. Garlic is known to stimulate T-lymphocyte and macrophage action, promote interleukin-1 levels, and support natural killer cells. Strong activity of these key cells promotes healthy immune system function, and strengthens the body's defenses. History of Garlic Garlic was rare in traditional English cuisine (though it is said to have been grown in England before 1548), and has been a much more common ingredient in Mediterranean Europe. Pyramid

Builders of the ancient pyramids were said to eat garlic daily for enhanced endurance and strength. Garlic was placed by the ancient Greeks on the piles of stones at cross-roads, as a supper for Hecate. Roman emperors couldn't eat enough of it, as it was considered an antidote to poisons which were very popular in certain political circles of the time. The Spanish have long used garlic as a preservative which helps to add creadence to it's antibacterial properties and whole books have been devoted to the health benefits of garlic. The inhabitants of Pelusium in lower Egypt, who worshipped the onion, are said to have had an aversion to both onions and garlic as food. European beliefs once considered garlic a powerful ward against demons, werewolves, and vampires. To ward off vampires, garlic could be worn, hung in windows or rubbed on chimneys and keyholes. Garlic Facts Garlic has germanium in it. Germanium is an anti-cancer agent, and garlic has more of it than any other herb. In lab tests, mice fed garlic showed no cancer development, whereas mice that weren't fed garlic showed at least some. In fact, garlic has been shown to retard tumor growth in human subjects in some parts of the world. Another benefit of garlic is it helps regulate the body's blood pressure. So whether you have problems with low or high blood pressure, garlic can help equalize it. Garlic helps strengthen your body's defenses against allergies; helps loosen plaque from the artery walls; helps regulate your blood sugar levels; and is the best choice for killing and expelling parasites such as pin worms from the human body. In addition to all these health benefits, garlic is packed with vitamins and nutrients. Some of these include protein, potassium, Vitamins A, B, B2 and C, Calcium, Zinc and many others. In a 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, allicin powder was found to reduce the incidence of the common cold by over 50%. Garlic and onions are toxic to cats and dogs. Garlic can thin the blood similar to the effect of aspirin. Drinking lemon juice or eating a few slices of lemon will stop bad garlic breath.

It is traditional to plant garlic on the shortest day of the year. Whether this is for symbolic or practical reasons is unclear. Garlic for Health Today, we know garlic is an excellent herb for creating and maintaining overall health, but it also has many lesser known, but powerful qualities. For example, many people don't know that it's a naturally powerful antibiotic. This natural antibiotic is effective against toxic bacteria, viruses, and fungus. Available in pills, capsules, liquid and actual raw cloves, garlic is one of the most popular healthy herbs around today. Garlic helps platelet stickiness or aggregation to help reduce blood coagulation, and promote heart health. The antioxidant properties of garlic help scavenge harmful free radicals, which can damage LDL (bad) cholesterol in the blood stream. Garlic also promotes increased bile production to help reduce levels of fat in the liver. Garlic pills also help ward off coughs and colds. Garlic and Your Heart. The positive effect of garlic on your circulatory system is extremely well documented and it has been proved to: lower blood pressure decrease platelet aggregation lower serum triglycerides and LDL-cholesterol ( the bad type) levels increase serum HDL-cholesterol (the good type) and fibrinolysis (the process through which the body breaks up blood clots.) Plus it stimulates the production of nitric oxide in the lining of blood vessel walls, a substance that helps them to relax. As a result of these beneficial actions garlic helps to prevent arteriosclerosis and thereby reduces the risk of heart attack or stroke. Two or three cloves a day have cut the risk of subsequent heart attacks in half in heart patients. One reason for these beneficial effects may be garlic's ability to reduce the amount of free radicals in the bloodstream. According to a study published in Life Sciences, a daily dose of 1 ml/kg body weight of garlic extract for a period of 6 months resulted in a significant reduction in

oxidant (free radical) stress in the blood of arteriosclerosis patients. It's positive effect on the circulatory system improves blood flow throughout the body so has even been hailed as a cure for impotence! Garlic and Cancer Current research has shown that a number of readily available foods such as garlic and onions that make up a healthy diet, actually have a major impact on cancer prevention. The protective effect of garlic seems to be greater than that of onions, even though onion consumption has been shown to reduce the risk of stomach cancer. These cancer fighting foods seem to have the ability to interfere with the development of cancerous tumors. The October 2000 issue of the American Journal of Nutrition had a summary of a number epidemiologic studies which showed that people who consumed cooked or raw garlic on a regular basis compared to those that ate little or none had about half the risk of stomach cancer and one-third less risk of colorectal cancer. This remarkable little bulb now tops the American National Cancer Institute's list of potential cancer-preventative foods. It contains multiple anticancer compounds and antioxidants, more than 30 at the last count, which such powerful compounds as quercetin, diallyl sulphide,allin and ajoene. These have the ability to block cancer causing agents such as nitrosamine and aflatoxin which have been specifically linked to stomach, lung and liver cancer. Garlic's ajoene and allicin have also been shown to retard cancer cells as a type of natural chemotherapy. The Iowa Women's Health Study discovered that women who included garlic in their daily diet had lower risks for colon cancer. Meat cooked at high temperatures (well done to burnt) can produce carcinogenic (cancer producing) chemicals and research has recently discovered that when meat is cooked with garlic this effect is limited. The ten best groups of anti-cancer foods include: berries and citrus fruits, cruciferous vegetables, garlic and onions, green tea, omega 3 essential fatty acids, olive oil, tomatoes, soy products, red wine and dark chocolate. Garlic- and the Immune System. Not surprisingly the presence of all these antioxidants in garlic have a very positive effect on the immune system in general and can therefore protect the body against all types of bacterial and viral attacks. Research has recently even shown it to have an inhibiting effect on MSRA which is currently reeking such havoc in U.K. hospitals. Garlic also acts as a good cold medication, decongestant and expectorant. It is a surprisingly good source of vitamins C, B6 and the minerals selenium and manganese all of which have long been associated with immune system boosting as well as other benefits.

Garlic-Promotes Weight Control. Allicin is the most potent substance found in garlic and this has been shown to not only lower blood pressure, insulin and triglyceride levels in laboratory animals fed a sugar rich diet, but also to prevent weight gain. A study published in the American Journal of Hypertension reported that animals who developed high insulin levels, high blood pressure, and high triglycerides were given either allicin or served as a control. Although all of the animals consumed the same amount of food, weight rose only in the control group whereas the animals who were being supplemented with allicin maintained stable weight or a slight decrease was actually noticed. The researchers concluded that allicin may be of practical value for weight control. Garlic Home Remedies Garlic is an invaluable medicine for asthma, hoarseness, coughs, difficulty of breathing, and most other disorders of the lungs, being of particular virtue in chronic bronchitis, on account of its powers of promoting expectoration. An older remedy for asthma, that was most popular, is a syrup of Garlic, made by boiling the garlic bulbs till soft and adding an equal quantity of vinegar to the water in which they have been boiled, and then sugared and boiled down to a syrup. The syrup is then poured over the boiled garlic bulbs, which have been allowed to dry meanwhile, and kept in a jar. Each morning a bulb or two should be taken, with a spoonful of the syrup. For ear infections: Wrap a small piece of garlic in some tissue, and insert it into the ear. Leave it there overnight if possible. Pain is almost immediately removed and the infection tends to start clearing up overnight. See our full article Garlic can Fight and Cure Ear Infections For scratchy throats: Put a small slice of garlic in your mouth and suck on it for 10-15 minutes. You can put it between your teeth and cheek, then scratch it with your teeth a little to help stimulate juice from the garlic slice. This juice slides down your throat and removes the pain. Garlic can heal the pain caused by insect bites like those of scorpions and centipedes. The juice of fresh garlic mixed with salt can be applied to bruises, sprains and ringworms. At the first sign of a cold, chop up 4 cloves of raw garlic and eat or use it as a garnish in soups etc. Cut raw garlic and rub the cut edge on the tooth and gums a couple of times a day to stop toothache.

Take fresh garlic cloves and crush them, apply to warts until they disappear. Crush a clove or two onto a dessert spoon then add olive oil and down the hatch. you get the benefits of raw garlic with none of the breath issues. Garlic to clear sinuses. Melt some butter and add minced garlic cloves, spread on toast and eat. Garlic for herpes. Take a garlic clove and cut in half. Eat one half and take the other half and rub into the affected areas. (may sting a little) Use raw garlic juice on rashes and bug bites, it stops the itching immediately. 8 to 10 of garlic juice mixed with 2 TBLS of honey four times a day cures a persistent cough. Garlic for tonsillitis. Peel a clove of garlic and cut them in half lengthwise. Boil for a couple of minutes in about 1.5 cup water and add a pinch of salt, teaspoon of butter, a pinch of pepper and sprinkle with nutmeg. Cut a garlic clove into small pieces. Swallow them all in one go with a little water to cure bloating, stomach cramps and constipation. 10 drops of garlic juice with 2 teaspoon of honey cures asthma. Garlic in Cooking Garlic is known for its distinct taste and smell whenever it's cooked and added to various dishes. Garlic has a long history as a culinary spice and medicinal herb. Its Latin name comes from "al" which means burning, and "sativum" which means Garlic soup harvested. Its most widely used part is the head, which is used in cooking to give its distinct taste. Its head is made of 4 - 20 cloves. Because of its distinct taste and aroma, it is a commonly used spice that is mixed with other herbs like ginger and onions in preparing various dishes. Depending on the flavor desired, the method of cooking it could either be mellow or intense. In Northern European cuisine for example, garlic is used in little amounts and is cooked for a long time to diminish its taste. Try and cook some roasted garlic for extra health benefits. Do odorless garlic pills work? The more popular version of garlic unfortunately tends to be the "odorless" pills and capsules found in health food stores. Odorless garlic as an antibiotic or general health promotion herb is useless if it doesn't have its smell. Garlic oil and powder Pills

supplements are produced by distilling fresh garlic, and then diluting it with other substances. This process destroys the majority of allicin in garlic. Therefore, the supplements rely on the human stomach to convert some of the remaining garlic components into allicin. Although a few garlic powder supplements are able to generate some allicin within the stomach, the amount converted, if any is converted at all, is dependant upon optimal stomach conditions. British scientists have developed a proprietary process through which the naturally occurring allicin in garlic is extracted, stabilized and concentrated. The end result is the extremely potent and effective product: Alli-C. Alli-C garlic pills contain enough allicin to be medicinally effective. Each capsule of Alli-C contains 270 milligrams of allicin powder, plus 60 milligrams of vitamin C, and 40 milligrams of bioflavonoids which is the equivalent to 20 to 30 cloves of fresh, crushed garlic! Research indicates that just one capsule of Alli-C, taken each day with a little cold liquid during your main meal, will provide enough allicin to support good general health and well-being. Growing Garlic at Home Garlic can be grown all year round in mild climates. In cold climates, cloves can be planted in the ground about six weeks before the soil freezes, and harvested in late spring. Garlic plants can be grown close together and even in small pots indoors as lond as you leave enough room for the bulbs to mature. Simply prepare a light soil mix and stick a garlic clove (the bigger the clove the better) in the ground for every bulb you want to dig

Growing garlic up.

As garlic reaches maturity the leaves will turn brown in color then die away. This is the time to harvest your home grown garlic crop. If you harvest too early the cloves will be very small, too late and the bulb will have split. Eat Garlic in Moderation 2 to 4 grams of fresh, minced garlic can be eaten each day. However, when eaten excessively, it can leave a distinct odor on the skin and breath, can cause heartburn, upset stomach and allergic reactions. Garlic can also thin the blood so caution is advised to people with blood disorders, to those who will have surgery, and to those who will deliver a baby, about consuming it either fresh or in supplement form. Side effects from taking garlic supplements include headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, muscle aches and dizziness.

Benefits of Garlic for Men
Mar 29, 2011 | By Juniper Russo

Photo Credit garlic image by Marek Kosmal from Fotolia.com Used for centuries as both a food and medicine, garlic offers a variety of health benefits to people of all ages and lifestyles. The rhizome, or bulb, of this pungent-smelling plant contains potent medicinal compounds that may help to treat or prevent several common ailments. Although garlic's benefits do not apply exclusively to men, its health-boosting effects are even more important to males than to females. Consult your health care provider before taking nutritional supplements or eating unusually large amounts of garlic.

Cardiovascular Support
The American Heart Association notes that men are much more likely than women to suffer from cardiovascular disease. According to the AHA, men are more likely than women to have heart attacks, and they tend to have them earlier in life. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, garlic can help to decrease "bad" cholesterol levels, increase "good" cholesterol levels, improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure. All of these factors can help to minimize your chances of experiencing a serious cardiovascular event, such as a heart attack or stroke. Regular supplementation with garlic, and its inclusion in a balanced diet, can work to prevent life-threatening heart diseases.

Cancer

The Centers for Disease Control reports that, each year, 700,000 men are diagnosed with cancer in the United States. Roughly 40 percent of these men die. Fortunately, a healthy lifestyle may help to prevent some forms of cancer, including those that primarily affect men. According to the UMMC, garlic appears to reduce the risk of prostate, throat, colon and stomach cancers among men. These findings are very encouraging, but it is important to note that they are still inconclusive. Garlic cannot replace the role of a healthy lifestyle for cancer prevention.

Immune Support
Regular garlic intake may support overall immune function. MedlinePlus reports that garlic may reduce the severity of upper-respiratory infections such as the common cold. Garlic also exhibits anti-fungal activity when applied directly to the skin; it may help to treat fungal infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm and jock itch. MedlinePlus also acknowledges garlic's traditional use as a treatment for bronchiolitis, ear infections, pneumonia, whooping cough and HIV. However, no studies have evaluated garlic's use as a cure for these conditions. Always abide by your health care provider's recommendations when seeking holistic medication for any disease or condition. One of the benefits of eating garlic probably are not the aroma it leaves in your mouth after eating it but it is thought to be an aphrodisiac. Strange? There is some science behind it though as garlic has shown to improve blood circulation what is especially important for sexual health of men. Garlic has been used as an ingredient for centuries in traditional and conventional medicine. Usually the extracts from garlic are used in combinations with other substances.

Lower cholesterol
The benefits of garlic (Allium sativum) are very similar to those of onions as they come from the same family. Both garlic and onions have the ability to prevent the formation of cholesterol gallstones through enhancing the metabolism of cholesterol. Cholesterol is naturally occurring type of fat in our bodies and normally it doesn’t do any harm. Cholesterol exists also in other animals which we consume as food – beef, chicken, dairy etc. If the consumption is greater than our bodies are able to metabolise (break down), cholesterol starts to accommodate in the blood. If the reserves of cholesterol increase even more, smaller blood vessels (capillaries) and other ducts start to clot and obstruct places in our bodies were other nutrients should be able to access freely to not cause any damage. Garlic (and onions) has the ability to produce enzymes for more active cholesterol metabolism. It doesn’t mean that you should now combine all animal origin food with garlic. Right thing to do would be reducing your overall cholesterol intake in the first place.

Good for the heart
Garlic is commonly known to be beneficial for cardiovascular system – reduces blood pressure through relaxing the blood vessels. This reduces risk of hypertension and heart attack. Overconsumption of garlic though will increase risk for blood thinning so the best is to keep everything in balance. When talking about combining a recent study has shown that garlic is able to break down the cancerogens of meat when prepared together which is good news for someone

who likes their weekly steak. Although we will post an article about benefits of eating meat, we should consider that animal protein has also bad impact on hormonal activity which is one of the causes of breast cancer.

Prevent deficiencies
Allium which gives the garlic eater a rather unpleasant mouth odour is one of the actual benefits of garlic. Alium is said to prevent osteoporosis which is still a little researched disease. The research in London was monitoring eating habits of healthy women subjects. The ones who had greater intake of allium rich vegetables were more protected against osteoporosis than others. A normal western diet usually provides enough minerals and prevents from suffering mineral deficiencies. Vegetarians though have much more limited source of these Iron and Zinc as they usually origin from animals. Eating garlic might benefit the bioavailability of these micronutrients from cereals. Vegetarian females should be especially careful with keeping their Iron levels sufficient as monthly a woman looses around 10-80ml of blood. From our childhood we probably all were given extra garlic in the times of flu by our parents. They were right to do so. Garlic provides many essential micronutrients like vitamins A, B, C, selenium, iodine, potassium, iron, zinc, calcium and magnesium. These ingredients act as enzymes for metabolism. It is proven that intake of these from natural products rather than supplements is much more beneficial as more of them will be absorbed for the right reasons. Garlic eaters though will most benefit if the consumption is regular independently from the health status. One clove of garlic a day is not much but enough to help you to prevent many diseases. Benefits of eating any food in any way are mostly preventative rather than curing.

Benefits of Garlic -For Hair, Immune system, blood cholesterol, cancer control and anti ageing
Garlic benefits for man and hair has been proved and used by mankind for centuries.Since ages, men have been suffering from cardiovascular diseases in greater number than women. For example, men are more likely to have heart attacks early in their live than women. Also, Men are more likely to have cholesterol related diseases as compared to women. Hence Men has more reasons to have garlic in their daily diet compared to women. Men are more likely to be diagnosed with prostate, throat, colon and stomach cancers. More than 700 thousand American are diagnosed with cancer every year and more than 35% of them die which is a huge figure. Let us see now how regular intake of Garlic can help to avoid Men's health related diseases:

Garlic prevent heart attack

1. Reduce Cholesterol and chances of heart attack
Regular intake of Garlic reduces bad cholesterol and make sure that flow of blood in your veins are not blocked. This means that there are less chances of heart attack or stroke in event of cardiovascular event. It is necessary to take garlic either raw or in vegetable curry so that you get a regular portion of garlic everyday. If you are OK with its pungent smell, then its advisable to take garlic raw with some salt.

2. Prevent Cancer for Men
As mentioned above more than 35% of the men diagnosed with Cancer in America die which can be reduced by regular intake of garlic. Although its not conclusively proved, some study suggests that if garlic is consumed regularly, it will decrease the risk of prostate, throat, colon and stomach cancers which have the most percentage in the total case reported for men. However apart from eating garlic, experts advise to have a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of cancer.

3. Garlic build up Immune system
Garlic play a important role in building up your immune system. When I was young, I always used to catch cold. My mother used to give me roasted garlic to eat which used to help me a lot. It has been proved now that garlic reduces respiratory infections which causes common cold. It is anti fungal and is used my medics in treatment of bronchitis, pneumonia, infections and HIV. However, always make sure that your are not eating too much of garlic as it is hot in nature.

4. Garlic acts as an antiaging and Anti Oxidants
Garlic is a very useful antioxidant. Antioxidant are molecules which prevent other molecules from oxidation. In food, antioxidant are those which inhibits the food particles from deterioration. They are also used in food processing industry to protect food for long time. In human body, antioxidants like garlic fight against the free radicals and help the aging process. You may have seen people who smoke a lot or live in a polluted environment looks more aged which is due to the fact that these free oxidating radicals are more produced in their body. However, it has also been proved that too much of anti oxidant also damages body, so they should always be taken in limit.
Reviewed by Michael Kisor Garlic is nature's wonder drug. Its medicinal value has been understood by herbalists for at least 2000 years. While modern research is confirming this ancient tradition, don't expect to hear much about it from the pharmaceutical companies or their puppets: allopathic doctors (i.e. "conventional medical doctors"). Garlic cannot be patented and exploited as such. They will attempt to find an "active ingredient," derive a drug from it, and patent and promote that. Vitamin and supplement companies, on the other hand, are extolling some of the virtues of garlic and promoting their "deodorized" products. But these products are not nearly as effective as raw garlic. Once again, the best source for proper nutrition comes from food itself.

Garlic contains hundreds of minerals and nutrients. It is very likely that no one ingredient is the "active ingredient." It is very likely that garlic's effectiveness and safety comes from these ingredients working together in concert. And if any particular ingredient should be found more potent than the others, and that ingredient were isolated and made into a medicine, it will probably have powerful negative side effects like virtually every other drug in use today. The Healing Power of Garlic discusses the historical uses of garlic, current research findings, and how to prepare and apply it for various ailments. Garlic has powerful antibiotic, antiviral and antifungal characteristics. Garlic is as effective as many modern antibiotics, without the dangerous side effects. What's more, garlic is an antiviral. Antibiotics are ineffective against viruses. In fact, in all of modern pharmacology, there are no effective antiviral drugs. This has important implications for AIDS patients, and in preventing colds and flu's. Included in this book is a recipe for garlic nose drops, which in animal studies have proved to be 100% effective in preventing influenza. Considering the danger of allopathic flu inoculations, of which one of the side-effects can include death, this is welcome news. Then there are these words from Dr. Herbert Pierson, of the United States National Cancer Institute:
Garlic is a veritable pharmacopeia. That's why garlic has been found in every medical book of every culture ever. For thousands of years, garlic had been used for the treatment and preventcon of disease. So there has to be something there.

The Healing Power of Garlic is a valuable book and one which is well worth having on your bookshelf. I heartly recommend this book. Blurb from the back cover of The Healing Power of Garlic: Healing traditions have recognized garlic as a natural "wonder drug" for thousands of years. Now medical research indicates garlic may prevent and even reverse high blood pressure, heart disease, and cancer, as well as a host of other serious health problems. In fact, a recent head-to-head comparison proved garlic just as effective as the leading cholesterol-reducing drug in lowering cholesterol levels.

This comprehensive handbook describes exactly how to use garlic as a versatile, powerful, and effective medicine for a tremendous variety of common illnesses. The simple treatments described in this book can help you:
• • • • • • •

Prevent cancer Lower your cholesterol level Reverse high blood pressure Boost your immune system Overcome fatigue Resist colds and flus Prepare healing garlic oil, ear drops, poultices, syrups, ointments, and other garlic treatments

Paul Bergner is editor of Medical Herbalism and Clinical Nutrition Update, and a faculty member at the Rocky Mountain Center for Botanical Studies in Boulder, Colorado. Author's Introduction to The Healing Power of Garlic: Is garlic a spice or a medicine? Is it therapeutic for the major diseases of our times? Scientists posed these two questions, respectively, in the titles of articles appearing in research journals in 1988. Most of us know of garlic as a favorite seasoning in salad dressings and as a staple of French, Italian, Greek, Middle Eastern, Indian, and Chinese cooking. But garlic is also a medicine, an unusually powerful and versatile one, that has been used since the dawn of medicine.

From epidemiological studies of cancer in China and Italy to clinical trials in high blood pressure and high cholesterol in the United States, Europe, and Japan, garlic has come under intense scientific scrutiny in the last ten years as a potential "wonder drug." Much of this research has investigated the effects of garlic in cardiovascular disease. This priority of research is probably inspired by the prominence of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack and stroke, the leading causes of death in the industrialized world. In 1994, scientists reviewing a collection of previous clinical trials of garlic concluded that it lowers both cholesterol and blood pressure, two important risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Notably, normal dietary amounts of garlic did this without any side effects more serious than a

garlic odor in a small percentage of participants. Conventional drugs for these diseases cause side effects such as dry mouth, insomnia, drowsiness, depression, and impotence. In a head-tohead trial comparing garlic against the cholesterol-lowering drug bezafibrate, garlic was just as effective. This is good news for the 25 percent of men and women aged twenty-five to fifty-nine in the United States who have high cholesterol levels. Scientists have also recently investigated the possibility that garlic can prevent or treat some kinds of cancer. As early as 1981, scientists noted that populations in China eating more garlic had less incidence of stomach cancer than those eating less garlic. By 1985, researchers experimenting with constituents of garlic had identified mechanisms that could inhibit tumors. One focus of research has been the sulfur-containing compounds in garlic -- the very compounds responsible for the odor of garlic coming from the skin of people who eat a lot of it. By 1994, the lower cancer rates among garlic eaters in China were found to also hold true in Italy and in Iowa. Scientists have now found evidence for the cancer-preventing effects of garlic from such population research, from research on isolated cancer cells, and from animal research. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, and this research suggests that garlic may help prevent stomach, bladder, breast, colon, and esophageal cancers. So it seems that the answer to the questions posed by the scientists in 1988 is "yes." Garlic is indeed a medicine and it is a preventive for the major diseases of our times. But so far, we've only been talking about prevention. What about treatment? Garlic has been used since the dawn of written history in medicine, and its main uses have remained virtually unchanged, meaning they have been verified by one generation after another. In contemporary systems of traditional medicine, such as Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, modern naturopathic medicine, British herbalism, and others, garlic remains in use as a therapeutic agent. In 1993 and 1994, in my Medical Herbalism journal, I ran a survey of contemporary herbalists in North America to find out what herbs they used most often. Garlic ranked seventh out of the top fifty herbs mentioned. Note that this is not based on sales of garlic but the actual prescription of it as a medicine by clinical professionals, including naturopathic physicians, chiropractic physicians, acupuncturists, and a variety of lay herbalists. A summary of these uses shows that garlic is like a medicine chest in itself:
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Respiratory conditions: Cold, flu, bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, tuberculosis Digestive disorders: Stomach ulcer, diarrhea, amoebic dysentery, worms, parasites Cardiovascular disease: Atherosclerosis, post-heart attack therapy, poststroke therapy, claudication Skin problems: Acne, boils, eczema, fungal infections, insect bites and stings

Many of these uses come from the antibiotic and immune-stimulating effects of garlic constituents (historically, garlic was found useful even for prevention of the bubonic plague, the dreaded Black Death!). Garlic can treat or prevent many diseases caused by infection by bacteria, viruses, molds, or parasites.

In this book, I'll explain the historical and contemporary uses of garlic in detail. I'll explain how modern science understands garlic to work as a medicine. Then I'll tell you how to make more than thirty different kinds of medicinal garlic preparations and how to use them for yourself or

your children in the home care of minor health complaints or in cooperation with your physician as substitutes for pharmaceutical medications. I'll help you sort out what forms of commercial garlic to use and how to find your way through the competitive advertising claims for these products. Finally, I'll thoroughly discuss the possible side effects of garlic (no medicine this powerful could be without side effects) and explain how you might overcome them if you happen to be sensitive to garlic. I'll even tell you traditional ways to overcome or adapt to the odor of garlic if that's a concern for you. We have grown up in the era of so-called wonder drugs. Garlic seems to be perhaps the greatest wonder drug of all. Imagine a single pharmaceutical drug that could prevent heart attacks, reduce cancer risk, lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, improve digestion, and act as an antibiotic. Each generation since before the time of the first scriptures has found garlic to be an indispensable medicine. Modern science is adding to this traditional knowledge. I hope you will learn its benefits for yourself.

10 essential foods for male health
A varied, balanced diet is the cornerstone of healthy living for everyone, yet healthy eating can sometimes mean different things depending on your gender. While there are some foods we should all be eating more of, men and women also have their own set of dietary requirements as well as their own unique health concerns. Here are 10 foods all men should eat.
Food for men 1: Tomatoes

Tomatoes are possibly one of the best "superfoods" around, and the popular fruit has particular benefits for men. Studies have suggested that the lycopene found in tomatoes may reduce risk of colorectal cancer, lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease; the leading cause of death in men. Research has also shown that men who frequently eat foods rich in lycopene may drastically reduce their risk of developing prostate cancer.

Food for men 2: Blueberries

Blueberries are another fruit that have been linked to a reduced risk of prostate cancer, thanks to their high levels of proanthocyanidins. However, blueberries' positive benefits for men don't stop there, as studies have also suggested that blueberries may be effective in reducing risk of heart disease, Type 2 Diabetes and age-related memory loss; a condition more prevalent in men than women.
Food for men 3: Brazil nuts

Snacking on nuts is great for heart health and good skin. However, Brazil nuts are particularly beneficial for men as they are packed with selenium; a powerful antioxidant which studies have suggested can boost sperm health and motility. Furthermore, selenium is also great for lowering "bad" cholesterol levels, preventing blood clots and lifting your mood.
Food for men 4: Broccoli

Broccoli - along with other cruciferous vegetables like cabbage and sprouts - contains a strong cancer-fighting chemical, sulphoraphane, which research has suggested may reduce men's risk of developing bladder cancer (a cancer more commonly affecting women than men), prostate cancer and colorectal cancer.
Food for men 5: Oysters

Oysters are the highest natural source of zinc; an essential requirement for men's fertility and sexual health. Zinc not only helps to maintain healthy testosterone levels in men, but it is essential for healthy sperm production. On top of this, zinc deficiency may be responsible for hair loss in men, so an increased intake may benefit men's appearance as well as health.

Food for men 6: Whole grains

Whole grains are great for our health thanks to their high levels of vitamins, minerals and fibre. Most whole grains, including brown rice and oats, are particularly rich in B vitamins, which are good for general wellbeing and can also help alleviate depression. Individual B vitamins can also benefit male health in various ways. Studies have suggested that folate (vitamin B9) can keep sperm healthy, while biotin (B7) may help hair loss. Silica, also present in whole grains, could also help with healthy hair growth.

Food for men 7: Eggs

For men suffering from hair loss, eggs may also provide the perfect solution. Eggs are an excellent source of protein, which is essential for hair growth, as well as being rich in biotin (vitamin B7). Egg yolks are also a good source of iron, which some studies have suggested can alleviate hair loss, which can be caused by anaemia.
Food for men 8: Pomegranate juice

Pomegranates are packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, and research has suggested that drinking the juice of this "superfood" can help lower cholesterol - which can be high in many men as young as their 20s - and prevent hypertension. A study has also found that drinking just one 8oz glass of pomegranate juice a day could dramatically slow down the progress of prostate cancer.
Food for men 9: Garlic

Garlic is well known for boosting heart health, and a study on the effects of garlic consumption on males has shown that regularly eating garlic could help lower men's cholesterol levels. Furthermore, research findings published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute have suggested that regularly eating garlic and onions could help lower men's risk of developing

Garlic ranks as one of the most potent remedies of all time. For effectiveness and health benefits, it even challenges some of the conventional medicines today! Powerful sulfur compounds in garlic kill and inhibit an astounding assortment of bacteria, viruses, fungi, mold, parasites and worms, frequently on contact. They also work within the body’s vital systems, such as the circulatory, digestive, immunological, to promote detoxification, cleansing, lowering blood pressure, strengthening the immune system and healing. All in all, garlic helps promote good health.

Garlic health benefits
(*remember that it does not *treat* any disease or illness, but can help prevent)
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Fights respiratory diseases Inhibits cancer Kills herpes on contact Thins blood Is an anti-oxidant Detoxifies Lowers blood sugar Lowers cholesterol Treats HIV/AIDS infections Strengthens the immune system

Is there anything Garlic can’t do? If anything can be called a ‘wonder-drug’ it should be GARLIC. You can also add it to almost any savory dish for the most delicious flavor and aroma.

Surprising Health Benefits Of Garlic And Onions
When talking about aromatic onions and garlic, we might as well get right to the question: Would you be willing to smell a little worse to feel a little better? Of course, for fans of these vegetables, the answer is a resounding "yes." Since ancient times, onions, garlic and scallions have been prized around the world for their culinary uses. Because of their durability, onions have been shipped and traded across long distances. According to a study from the UK, when it comes to horticultural crops, onions are the second most important after tomatoes.

Now scientists from the U.S., England, France, Italy and other countries are confirming the outstanding health benefits of allium vegetables such as onions, garlic and scallions. Research has looked at how these vegetables help to facilitate detoxification and act as powerful antioxidants, stimulate immune responses and reduce inflammation. Learn more: Garlic -- Know What Herbs Do What What Makes Onions and Garlic Special? Some scientists believe the components in onions and garlic called allyl sulfides and bioflavonoids may be key to the research observations of generally lower incidence of cancer and heart disease in people who consume large amounts of garlic and onions, compared with those who eat less. Nutritional Support for Cancer Prevention A study from the National Cancer Institute found that eating 10 grams (approximately two teaspoons) or more of garlic, onions or scallions a day was associated with a statistically significantly lower risk of prostate cancer for the participants in the study. A study conducted at Case Western Reserve University indicated that garlic may help reduce the occurrence rate of pre-cancerous tumors (polyps) in the large intestine. Garlic and Onions for Detoxification Many cancers are thought to be caused by damage to DNA, often induced by environmental toxins. A study conducted at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle found that eating a teaspoon of fresh garlic and a half cup of onions per day increases the levels of a key enzyme for removing toxins in the blood cells of healthy women. The authors of this study believed that men would require a higher dose on average for the same effect, because of their larger body size. Read Why You Need to Detoxify 24 Hours a Day Another study, conducted in Scotland, found that eating sautéed onions increases the resistance of the blood cells to DNA damage. Garlic and Cholesterol While a highly publicized clinical trial at Stanford University found that garlic did not lower cholesterol levels in healthy people with moderately elevated cholesterol, previous studies have indicated that garlic is more likely to produce beneficial effects on cholesterol in women than in men, and in patients with diabetes or heart disease than in healthy individuals. News reports of this negative trial failed to recognize that the cholesterol-lowering effects of garlic are not the same for all people and that any trial containing a large percentage of healthy

men could miss an effect that might be found if the people studied were patients with diabetes or heart disease. In addition, while there is so much focus on the connection between cholesterol and heart disease, the benefits of garlic in preventing heart disease are probably due to factors other than changes in cholesterol. In particular, clinical experiments have shown that regular consumption of garlic decreased calcium deposits and the size of arterial plaque in coronary arteries, prevented unhealthy blood clotting and improved the circulation of the subjects who were studied. How to Add Garlic and Onions Your Day The minimum effective amount is generally two teaspoons a day of garlic or two tablespoons of onions or scallions, chopped or crushed. When shopping, look for the freshest bulbs. Onions should be very firm with an intact outer layer. For garlic, look for a bulb with tightly packed cloves. Pick scallions that are bright green and skip any that are wilted. In the kitchen, chopped onions or garlic are the starting point for many cooked dishes. They also add robust flavor to main courses, soups and omelets. A sprinkle of chopped scallions or chives makes a perfect garnish to add flavor to dips, sandwiches, salads and grilled dishes. Cooking does not diminish the protective effects of garlic, onions or other alliums. Caramelized Onion For a savory side dish my son Jonathan Galland wrote this simple recipe for caramelized onion. Simply slice one large onion and sauté slowly in a half teaspoon of olive oil on medium heat, stirring frequently. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook until the onion turns soft and golden, which brings out the natural sweetness. For more delicious ways to enjoy onions and garlic, visit www.fatresistancediet.com. I hope you enjoy the healthy pleasure of onions and garlic now and throughout the year. Now I'd like to hear from you: Do you enjoy onions or garlic? Where do you shop for them? How do you usually eat onions or garlic? Please let me know your thoughts by posting a comment below.

Best Health, Leo Galland, M.D. Important: Share the Health with your friends and family by forwarding this article to them, and sharing on Facebook. Leo Galland, MD is a board-certified internist, author and internationally recognized leader in integrated medicine. Dr. Galland is the founder of Pill Advised, a web application for learning about medications, supplements and food. Sign up for FREE to discover how your medications and vitamins interact. Watch his videos on YouTube and join the Pill Advised Facebook page. This information is provided for general educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute (i) medical advice or counseling, (ii) the practice of medicine or the provision of health care diagnosis or treatment, (iii) or the creation of a physician--patient relationship. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your doctor promptly. The health benefits of garlic in a nutshell:
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Fights infections Contains cancer-preventing chemicals Thins the blood Reduces blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides Stimulates the immune system Prevents and relieves chronic bronchitis Acts as an expectorants Fights Infections

There's no doubt that garlic destroys bacteria. The compound in garlic that acts as an antibiotic is allicin, which is formed when garlic is crushed. If the aroma - hence allicin - is destroyed, as in cooking, garlic is no longer a microbe killer, although the health benefits of garlic don't stop there, it can perform other therapeutic functions. Tests even have found raw garlic more powerful than penicillin and tetracycline. Literally hundreds of studies confirm garlic braod-spectrum antibiotic activity against a long list of microbes, including botulism, tubercolosis, diarrhoea, Candida infections, staph, dysentery and thyphoid.

According to one count, seventytwo separate infectious agents are deafeted by garlic. A researcher said: "Garlic has the broadest spectrum of any antimicrobial substances we know of. It's antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, antiprotozoan and antiviral."
Garlic Boosts Immunity

Dr Abdullah and his colleagues at the Akbar Clinic and Research Center in Panama City, Florida, found that both raw garlic and a garlic extract called Kyolic dramatically increased the powers of the immune system's natural killer cells - the first line of defence against infectious disease and perhaps cancer. The killer cells derived from the blood of those eating garlic or taking the garlic extract were mixed with cancer cells and were able to destroyed from 140 to 160 percent more cancer cells than did killer cells from non-garlic eaters. Dr Abdullah believes that the health benefits of garlic extend beyond treating infections and cancer, but can also affect AIDS, in which immune function fails. Garlic, he says, might rev up immune defenses in AIDS patients; it also may directly combat the many fungal-type infections AIDS patients fall prey to.
Heart Food

Garlic is one of the best foods you can have for heart disease. It lowers blood cholesterol and creates other blood changes protective against heart disese - such as thinning the blood and preventing embolism (internal blood clots). In one study, the blood clot-dissolving system (fibrinolytic activity) persitently rose in healthy people by 130% and in heart patients by 83% during a three months' period. It became sluggish after the garlic treatment ended. The health benefits of garlic go beyond lowering 'bad' LDL cholesterol, it also lowers triglycerides (another type of fat in the blood) and raises 'good' HDL cholesterol. To know more about garlic and heart disease by clicking on the link. Perhaps garlic's better well known accomplishment is its ability to lower high blood pressure. It's been used in China for centuries for that purpose and the Japanese government officially recognizes garlic as a blood-pressure depressor.

Garlic and the Lungs

Dr Irwin Ziment, a pulmonary specialist at the University od California, Los Angeles, regularly prescribes garlic as a decongestant and expectorant for common colds and as a 'mucus regualator' for chronic bronchitis. How does garlic work as an expectorant? The pungent property of garlic irritates the stomach, which then signals the brain through the vagus nerve to stimulate bronchial glands to release a flood of watery fluid. The same reflex turns on glands that also cause the nose and eyes to water and in the lungs they release fluids that then thin the mucus, enabling the ordinary lung mechanisms to expel it. Regular doses of garlic, as well as other pungent spices - such as hot peppers, black pepper, ginger, mustard, turmeric - help keep susceptible persons from developing debilitating chronic bronchitis, can treat clods, sinusitis and asthma, and keeps mucus moving normally through the lungs.
Garlic and Cancer

Garlic is one of the stars in cancer research circles. The health benefits of garlic in treating cancer have been studied for many years. For example, as long ago as 1952, Russian scientists successfully used garlic extracts against human tumors. Evidence that people who eat garlic are more likely to escape cancer comes from a comparison of garlic eating in two Chinese counties in Shandong province. Gangshan County residents eat about 20 g.of garlic a day (about seven cloves) and have a gastric cancer death rate of 3.45 per 100,000 population. In nearby Quixia County, the residents care little for garlic and eat it rarely; they die of gastric cancer at the rate of 40 per 100,000. The non-garlic eaters have an almost twelve times greater risk of deadly gastric cancer. Japanese scientists found that garlic extracts acted as powerful antioxidants against so-called 'lipid peroxidation' that can insert inappropriate oxygen molecules into cells, causing their destruction. Other investigators testing sulfur compounds from garlic (and onions) find that the substances saved mice from colon cancer by blocking the conversion of chemicals to powerful carcinogens. Studies have shown that as few as two or more servings of garlic a week may help protect against colon cancer.

Substances found in garlic, such as allicin, have been shown not only to protect colon cells from the toxic effects of cancer-causing chemicals but also to stop the growth of cancer cells once they develop.
Garlic and Bad Breath

Unless everybody around you eats garlic, if you are the only one eating it, you can be easily identified by your breath and no doubt this is what puts many people off eating garlic and enjoying its many health benefits. Many suggestions have been put forward: strong coffee, honey, yoghurt or a glass of milk. The French call red wine an effective deodorizer. Cloves are also supposed to do it. The most commonly recommended is chewing parsley - the herb chlorophyll is supposed to douse the garlic smell. Try different ones and see which one is best for you. Don't let the smell stop you from enjoying the health benefits of garlic, especially if you suffer with elevated cholesterol levels, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, Candida infections, asthma, respiratory tract infections and gastrointestinal complaints. The best thing you could do is to enjoy it with your family and friends, so nobody will notice the smell!
Other practical matters on garlic:
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To enjoy the health benefits of garlic to the full use garlic that is as fresh as possible; growing your own is the best. Unfortunately, also garlic varies widely in its therapeutic chemicals depending on soil conditions. That could be one reason why researchers say test results of garlic's therapeutic capabilities vary. Chopping or crushing garlic stimulates the enzymatic process that converts the phytochemical alliin into allicin, a compound to which many of garlic's health benefits are attributes. The compound allicin is also mainly responsible for the pungent odour of garlic. Raw of cooked? Garlic has to be raw to kill bacteria, boost immune function and probably help prevent cancer. But cooked garlic can lower blood cholesterol and help keep blood thin and perform as a decongestant, cough medicine, mucus regulator and bronchitis preventive. The best advice: eat it both ways.

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What about garlic oils, capsules, pills, special preparations?

Many of them, warn experts, have none or very little of the active garlic compounds. So you've got to make sure you are getting the best quality products, otherwise you might be wasting your money.

For the best garlic supplements click on the banner below or go directly to garlic capsules page.

Quick Serving Ideas
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Garlic, either chopped, sliced, or crushed, is a valuable addition to many foods, sauces and soups to improve the nutritional benefits as well as the flavour. Macerate garlic in olive oil for one week and use this flavoured oil in dressings and marinades. Purée two or more cloves fresh garlic, 12 ounces, 350 grams canned chickpeas, 2 tablespoons sesame butter (or tahini), 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 to 3 tablespoons lemon juice to make a quick and easy hummus.

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Purée the cloves from two heads of roasted garlic, 3 cups cooked potatoes and 1/2 cup olive oil together to make a delicious garlic mashed potatoes. Season to taste. Stuff pitted olives with pieces of garlic and serve as hors d'oeuvres or mix into salads.

Grow Your Own Garlic

If you want some tips and advice on growing your own garlic have a look at this beautiful website: Backyard-Vegetable-Gardening.com : A how-to guide for growing vegetables in your backyard or containers; tips and advice about planting, maintaining, and harvesting your own vegetables, along with recipe ideas. It's very important to identify the many indigestion causes, as indigestion can be a symptom of a disorder in the stomach or the intestines or it may be a disorder in itself. Indigestion, also called dyspepsia, can involve a range of unpleasant symptoms that occur after eating, from bloating, stomach rumbling and abdominal cramps to wind, nausea and vomiting. Here is a complete list of symptoms of indigestion:
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Abdominal pain Allergic symptoms Belching Bloated feeling Burning sensation after eating Chronic bowel irritation Chronic fatigue Constipation Diarrhea Gas Insomnia Joint and muscle pain Nausea Rumbling noises Skin disorders Sugar cravings Vomiting Heartburn often accompanies indigestion

Some of the Common Indigestion Causes
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Swallowing air - by chewing with the mouth open, talking while chewing or gulping down food - can be one of the causes of indigestion. Drinking too much liquid with meals dilutes the enzymes needed for digestion.

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Certain foods and beverages can irritate the digestive tract - including alcohol, caffeine, greasy, spicy or refined foods. Intestinal obstructions Lack of friendly bacteria Malabsorption Peptic ulcers Disorders of the gallbladder, liver or pancreas Food allergies and intolerances Zinc deficiency Stress

One of the Main Indigestion Causes: Lack of Digestive Enzymes

If food is not digested properly, it ferments in the stomach and upper intestine, producing hydrogen, carbon dioxide and organic acids. These acids don't help digestion but can cause gas and bloating. Foods high in complex carbohydrates, such as grain and legumes, are the primary foods responsible for gas because they are difficult to digest and therefore are more likely to yield undigested particles on which the intestinal bacteria act. Undigested food and bacteria present in the gut can produce toxins that can damage the mucosal lining, causing leaky gut syndrome. This condition occurs when particles of undigested food normally eliminated in the feces pass through tiny rips in the intestinal lining and get absorbed into the system, causing severe digestive distress. Contributing factors include abnormal intestinal flora (candida), food allergies, regular alcohol consumption, parasites, chemicals or drugs that irritate the small intestine. Psychological factors such as anxiety, stress, worry or disappointment can disturb the nervous mechanism that controls the contractions of stomach and intestinal muscles.
Too Much Stomach Acid?

Many consider over-production of stomach acid as one of the many indigestion causes. But is that always the case? Hydrochloric acid (or HCl), which is produced by glands in the stomach, is absolutely essential for digestion. It's necessary for the breakdown of proteins in foods, for the absorption of certain minerals, as well as for destroying many dangerous micro-organisms ingested with food. Without this acid barrier we would be much more susceptible to food-borne diseases.

Insufficient amounts of HCl can lead to indigestion, particularly with high-protein meals and the risk of developing food allergies because undigested large protein molecules are more likely to stimulate allergic reactions in the small intestine. Levels of HCl decline with age, which is one reason why more older people suffer with indigestion. Estimates suggest that as much as half the population over the age of 60 suffers from hydrochloric acid deficiency. If you have no heartburn but suffer from regular stomach aches, bloating, belching and wind after meals, especially associated with protein-rich foods, you may have this problem. Another indicator is feeling full shortly after eating or sensation that food is slow to pass from the stomach. One of the most common reasons for a lack of stomach acid is zinc deficiency (because the production of HCl is dependent on a sufficient intake of zinc). Stress also suppresses stomach acid production. This is because when we're stressed the body channels energy towards the 'fight or flight' response and away from digestion. So eating on the move or when you're stressed out is definitely a bad idea and one of the main indigestion causes.
How do you know whether you need more HCl?

Try this simple test: Take a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. If it makes your indigestion go away, then you need more stomach acid. If it makes the symptoms worse, then you have too much acid and you should take care not to take any supplements that contain HCl. Or you could try a supplement providing 500 mg of betain hydrochloride and 100 mg of pepsin with each meal for a month (make sure that you don't have an ulcer - betaine can make it worse!).
Please Note - See your doctor if:
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You have pain at least twice a week or more - it may indicate a peptic ulcer or a disorder of the liver or gallbladder. Food is hard to swallow or stick to your oesophagus. You are vomiting or passing black stools.

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You are over 45 and are suffering from persistent symptoms. If your chest pain is crushing rather than burning or is accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating or pain that radiates to your arm or jaw. It may be a heart attack - get medical help immediately.

Arginine: What It Can Do
Arginine is an amino acid (a building block of protein), produced in the body and found in many foods—especially those rich in protein, such as dairy products, meats, fish, nuts, and soybeans. Most of the time, we produce or consume all the arginine we need. It serves many purposes in the body, but one of its most important jobs is as a precursor for nitric oxide, which in turn is also vital, particularly to cardiovascular health and the healthy functioning of blood vessels. Arginine is sold as a dietary supplement, usually in a form called L-arginine. You may be tempted to think that you ought to consume more arginine just for good measure. Indeed, marketers warn you of shortages and tell you that arginine supplements will improve liver function, build muscles, and enhance exercise performance, among other things. The supplements have been seriously studied as treatment for heart disease, erectile problems, headaches, and a host of other ills. To clear the fog of claims and counter-claims, here’s a summary of what is known: • Some preliminary studies have found that arginine supplements can improve the function of blood vessels, enhance coronary blood flow, lower blood pressure, and even reduce angina and other symptoms in people with heart and/or vascular disease. There’s evidence it can be used to treat heart failure. • However, two well-designed studies raised red flags about arginine supplements and the heart. One, conducted by researchers at Stanford University and published in Circulation in 2007, found that arginine supplements did not help people with peripheral arterial disease and may even have made matters worse. “Not useful” was the conclusion. And a study at Johns Hopkins Hospital in 2006 found that arginine supplements given to heart attack patients dramatically increased deaths. The study had to be halted; researchers warned strongly against using arginine for heart attack patients. • Some evidence suggests that arginine combined with ibuprofen (such as Motrin or Advil) may ease migraine or dental pain. But more research is needed. • Claims are made that arginine supplements can prevent or treat diabetes, but there’s no convincing evidence for this—or for claims about wound healing and fertility. • Arginine supplements (often containing other dubious ingredients) are marketed to improve erections and enhance libido, but it’s not known whether enough arginine gets to blood vessels in the penis to make a difference. Indeed, some studies have found little or no improvement, compared to a placebo. • No evidence supports arginine as a muscle builder or performance enhancer, though it is in countless sports supplements. • Arginine supplements have been shown to worsen asthma symptoms and increase lung inflammation.

Beating the drum Arginine supplements are often sold for heart health—you may remember the HeartBar, a once-popular soy-based candy bar with arginine that claimed to reduce or eliminate the need for medication and surgery among patients with heart disease. But the Federal Trade Commission stopped the company from making such unsubstantiated medical claims. Other arginine supplements include various pills and powdered drink mixes. One of these is Niteworks from Herbalife (a multi-level marketing company specializing in dubious products and farfetched claims). Niteworks was created by one of the UCLA researchers who shared a Nobel prize in 1998 for discoveries about nitric oxide. Another of the Nobelists went with yet another marketer and is selling a supplement called Cardio Support Formula. There is no evidence from human studies that these supplements prevent heart disease or ease its symptoms. Bottom line • The benefits of arginine supplements are uncertain, and their long-term safety is unknown. Healthy people do not need them. Briefly boosting nitric oxide may not actually benefit people with cardiovascular disease, let alone those hoping to avoid it. Excess nitric oxide could have adverse effects. • If you have heart disease or are at high risk, you should be under a doctor’s supervision; there are proven drugs that can help. Cardio-protective drugs such as statins and ACE inhibitors (for high blood pressure) increase nitric oxide availability. • If you have erectile problems, talk to your doctor. Drugs such as sildenafil (Viagra), which boost nitric oxide, may help. But your problem may not be a shortage of nitric oxide. Many medical and emotional factors can contribute to sexual problems. Arginine supplements are not known to be effective. • To protect your blood vessels and keep them in good shape, exercise is the best option. Among its many cardiovascular benefits, it probably boosts nitric oxide production.

The Health Benefits of Olive Oil
The health benefits of olive oil cannot be ignored. In fact, there have been coluntless studies trying to explain an apparent paradox: in some parts of the world an excessive fat intake leads to increases in chronic and degenerative conditions such as atherosclerosis, diabetes, colon cancer, asthma and arthritis, while in other high-fat-intake regions, the risk of developing these conditions is much lower. How is that possible? Well, it seems not to be geographically related. Instead, research is showing that it's the type of fat ingested that makes the difference. Some regions, like Crete and other Mediterranean areas, tend to consume the very healthy olive oil and thus their risk of developing these conditions

is reduced. Conversely, in places like the United States and the U.K., where people take in high levels of animal fats, the risk is considerably higher.
The Cretan Diet

The people in the Greek island of Crete know all about the health benefits of olive oil. A long term study conducted on these people revealed that they were healthier than people from seven other countries. Compared to the Americans, for example, they had half the cancer death rate and an astonishing one-twentieth of the mortality from coronary artery disease. Compared to the Japanese, they had half the overall death rate - even though the Crete diet was a 40% fat diet that contained three times more fat then the Japanese diet. The main reason seems to be their greater intake of olive oil and a much lower intake of the omega-6 oils (found in safflower, sunflower, and corn) and saturated fatty acids found in animal products.
How does olive oil make people healthier?

LOWERS CHOLESTEROL For one thing, particles of LDL cholesterol in the blood that are made up of the monounsaturated fats present in olive oil are less likely to become oxidized than other less healthy oils and fats. This is important, for as far as researchers can tell, it's only oxidized cholesterol that adheres to vessel walls and inevitably forms the plaque that can lead to heart attacks or strokes. But to reap the health benefits of olive oil, the unhealthy dietary fats still need to be eliminated from the diet. It's only in this case that the LDL levels can drop and HDL levels can rise. CONTROLS DIABETES The health benefits of olive oil seem to extend to people with diabetes. Many studies show that people who eat meals with olive oil gain better blood sugar control as well as lower levels of triglycerides (another type of fat in the blood). These results are better than for those diabetics who eat lower-fat meals without the olive oil. This may also decrease risk of heart disease in

these patients. HIGH IN ANTIOXIDANTS Olive oil contains high amounts of antioxidants, especially mixed tocopherols (the natural form of vitamin E) which may further protect against the risk of oxidation of cholesterol in the blood, reducing the risk of heart disease even further. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY Olives and olive oil may also be important in the prevention and treatment of asthma, arthritis and cancer. Since healthy oils are important for lowering systemic inflammation, it's not surprising that the health benefits of olive oil are seen by people who suffer with arthritis and asthma, reducing their symptoms.

FIGHTS BREAST CANCER AND OTHER TYPES OF CANCER Research has shown that women who regularly ingest olive oil also have a smaller risk of breast cancer. Oleic acid is the main fatty acid found in olive oil. One article, published in the Annals of Oncology, reported that oleic acid significantly cut levels of a breast cancer-promoting gene by up to 46%. When you compare diets around the world and within countries, animal fat often pops out as concentrated in the diets of those with higher cancer rates. Also, omega-6 polyunsaturated fats, such as corn oil, are a potential cancer danger. However, the monounsaturated fats predominant in olive oil, has not been designated a cancer culprit. On the contrary, new evidence suggests olive-oil-type fat helps coounteract cancer. PREVENTS GALLSTONES Greek researchers recently documented that people who ate lots of animal fats, such as meat and butter and even vegetarians who eat a lot of cheese, were more likely to develop gallstones. Interestingly, they found that a high consumption of olive oil actually discourages formation of gallstones.

What is the Best Olive Oil to Buy?

To get the most of the health benefits of olive oil you ought to buy extra virgin olive oil. "Extra virgin" means that the oil comes from the first pressing of the olives and has a low level of acidity. Extra virgin oil also has the highest amount of monounsaturated fatty acids, the most omega-3 fatty acids and the lowest omega-6 fatty acids, making it the healthiest of all the various kinds. "Pure olive oil" is virtually any oil that is able to be pressed out of the olives, regardless of the number of pressings. Extra virgin oil is richer in taste and has up to four times the level of free oleic acids as the other grades. "Cold pressed" denotes that the crushing of the olives was done without any heat. Although this process of eliciting the oil is more difficult, the quality is even higher and you get the best of the health benefits of olive oil, for heat can promote the oil going rancid. Oils generally have the tendency to take in any chemicals in their surroundings. So buy organic, cold-pressed, extra-virgin olive oil only, if you can.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil On Line

For the best extra virgin olive oil go to Goodness Direct and choose amongst an amazing variety to satisfy your needs.

Some Serving Suggestions to Enjoy the Best Helth Benefits of Olive Oil:
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Italian salad dressing: Mix aged balsamic vinegar, olive oil, lemon and/or lime juice and oregano well and pour over salad. Olive oil is an excellent marinade foundation; try it with beef, chicken, fish and soy products, such as tofu and tempeh. Dipping oil for fresh Italian bread or French baguette: Mix olive oil, salt, black and red pepper flakes. Purée roasted garlic, cooked potatoes and olive oil together to make great garlic mashed potatoes. Salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle olive oil over steamed vegetables before serving. Top with garlic powder and a touch of salt. An olive dip: Purée olive oil, garlic, and your favorite beans together in a food processor. Season to taste and serve as a dip or sandwich spread.

Health Benefits of Onions
The health benefits of onions have been known for over 5000 years and they've been used to cure virtually everything under the sun. In the last few years much research has gone into the health benefits of onions, and guess what? Studies after studies have confirmed that onions indeed possess many active compounds that have been proven beneficial for all sorts of health problem. On this page you'll find:
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Onions Nutritional Highlights Onions, Rich Source of Quercitin Detoxify Your Body with Onions Onions and the Heart Cancer Prevention Other Health Benefits of Onions Quick Serving Suggestions

Onions Nutritional Highlights
Onions are a very good source of vitamin C, B6, biotin, chromium, calcium and dietary fibre. In addition, they contain good amounts of folic acid and vitamin B1 and K. A 100 gram serving provides 44 calories, mostly as complex carbohydrate, with 1.4 grams of fibre. Like garlic, onions also have the enzyme alliinase, which is released when an onion is cut or crushed and it causes your eyes to water. They also contain flavonoids, which are pigments that give vegetables their colour. These compounds act as antioxidants, have a direct antitumor effect and have immune-enhancing properties. Onions contain a large amount of sulfur and are especially good for the liver. As a sulfur food, they mix best with proteins, as they stimulate the action of the amino acids to the brain and nervous system.

Onions, Rich Source of Quercitin

The onion is the richest dietary source of quercitin, a potent antioxidant flavonoid (also in shallots, yellow and red onions only but not in white onions), which is found on and near the skin and is particularly linked to the health benefits of onions. Quercitin has been shown to thin the blood, lower cholesterol, raise good-type HDL cholesterol, ward off blood clots, fight asthma, chronic bronchitis, hay fever, diabetes, atherosclerosis and infections and is specifically linked to inhibiting human stomach cancer.

It's also an anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, antiviral, thought to have diverse anti-cancer powers. Quercitin is also a sedative. So far, there is no better food source of quercitin than onion skins. You don't need to eat loads of onions to achieve these effects. In fact, studies show that you can reap the health benefits of onions by eating just one medium onion, raw or cooked, a day.

Detoxify Your Body with Onions
Onions contain a variety of organic sulfur compounds that provide health benefits. Sulfur-containing amino acids are found in onions as well as garlic and eggs. These specific amino acids are called methionine and cystine and, among other things, they are very good at detoxifying your body from heavy metals. In fact, they are able to latch on to mercury, cadmium and lead and escort them out of the body. Vitamin C, also contained in onions, is excellent at detoxifying the body and is effective in removing lead, arsenic and cadmium. So increasing consumption of onions can help the body to get rid of these harmful metals.

Onions and the Heart
To help keep your blood free of clots, and make the most of the health benefits of onions, eat them both raw and cooked. Prescribing onions for heart patients is hardly routine among cardiologists. But Harvard's Dr. Victor Gurewich advises all his patients with coronary heart disease to eat onions daily. Here are some of the things that onions can do for your heart:
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Boost beneficial HDL cholesterol Thin the blood Retard blood clotting Lower total blood cholesterol Lower triglycerides Lower blood pressure

(Read more about the health benefits of onions for your heart)

Cancer Prevention

One way the antioxidants in onions can protect you against cancer is by reducing the DNA damage in cells caused by free radicals, studies reveal. All onions and onion relatives (garlic, leeks, chives and scallions, or spring onions) are rich in organosulfur compounds shown to help prevent cancer in lab animals. In fact, an onion extract was found to destroy tumor cells in test tubes and to arrest tumor growth when tumor cells were implanted in rats. The onion extract was shown to be unusually nontoxic, since a dose as high as forty times that of the dose required to kill the tumor cells had no adverse effect on the host. In addition, shallots have been shown to exhibit significant activity against leukemia in mice.

Other Health Benefits of Onions
Onions have also been shown to have a significant blood sugar-lowering action, even comparable to some prescription drugs. The active compound that seems to be responsible for lowering glucose works by competing with insulin for breakdown sites in the liver, thereby increasing the life span of insulin. Onions have historically been used to treat asthma, too. Its action in asthma is due to its ability to inhibit the production of compounds that cause the bronchial muscle to spasm and to relax bronchial muscle. Onions have potent antibacterial activity, destroying many disease-causing pathogens, including E. coli and salmonella. From one of my readers, Lynley Kempthorne:

Chop up a raw onion and cover it with honey (manuka honey is even better) and let it stand for four or five hours. It makes an excellent cough syrup and is wonderfully soothing for an inflamed throat. Thank you Lynley

Quick Serving Suggestions:

The liberal use of onions and other bulbs of the same family, such as garlic, leeks and shallots, seems a particularly good idea considering their healing effects on the major degenerative diseases so common today, such as atherosclerosis, diabetes and cancer. So try to enjoy the health benefits of onions as much as you can and to include them in your diet in every possible way. Here are some quick serving ideas:
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Onions can be eaten on their own steamed, boiled or roasted. Sautéed chopped onions can be added to almost any vegetable dish to enhance its nutritional content and taste. For an instant vegetarian chilli, heat together 1 medium chopped sautéed onion, with 12-oz/350 g. can of kidney beans, 12 oz/350 g. of chunky tomato sauce, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season to taste with chili powder. Chop 1 red onion, 2 medium tomatoes, 2 avocados and 1 jalapeno and combine together for an all-in-one guacamole salsa dip. Place chunks of onion or small pearl onions on a skewer, either alone or with other vegetables, coat lightly with olive oil, and grill for approximately 10 minutes.

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