By Dr Orly
Zuker, Chiropractor
(B.Appl Sci;
Comp Med, Clin Chiro; Masters, B.Nursing)
HONEY
Honey is a natural product that is produced by the humble
bee (that we all avoid getting stung by!). It is sweet, sticky and a delicious
alternative to cane sugar. Different varieties of honey will offer flavours
based on the flower the pollen is derived from. Honey has been recognised over
the years for its medicinal powers and properties in regards to wound healing
(applied topically/ directly on the skin) and immunity (anti-microbial).
Apparently these healing properties stem from honey’s pH, flavonoid, phenolic acid and the hydrogen
peroxide content. Like with most things, the less processed and the more raw
(minimally heated) the honey is, the greater the medicinal value
When you have a sore throat, you can’t go past the simple
helpfulness of hot water with a heaped teaspoon of honey and ½ a freshly
squeezed lemon, or a drizzle of sweet, aromatic honey with butter on toast in
the morning. Yum!
HORSERADISH
Horseradish is certainly an acquired taste that some
people love and which others dislike. It is a root spice that is commonly and
frequently consumed in Eastern Europe and accustomed with fish and poultry
meals.
Most people would look at horseradish as a condiment
rather than a health food, however this pungent spice does offer some
impressive health benefits (besides clearing the sinuses!).
Some studies conducted on mice have tested
the effectiveness of using horseradish in the treatment of high cholesterol. Results
were favourable towards horseradish proving that the addition of horseradish in
the diet was associated with a reduction in total blood cholesterol and in
general increased the rate of excretion of cholesterol from the blood.
In addition, based on the fact that horseradish contains
powerful health enhancing compounds known as glucosinolates, some studies suggest
that that incorporating horseradish in the diet may assist in destroying cancer
cells and suppressing tumour growth. Furthermore, the glucosinolates act on the
liver to increase the detoxification process, keeping our bodies healthy. So
perhaps a little horseradish a day, may keep the doctor away!
HAZELNUT
Hazelnuts are a delicious nut that are most famous for
its perfect association with cocoa or chocolate… Hazelnuts are high in
manganese, vitamin E, B6 and other B vitamins and magnesium. These minerals and
vitamins all assist in the optimal function of the nervous system, cancer
prevention (based on the research, specifically bladder cancer), digestive
tract function and mood/ mental health/ memory.
Hazelnuts are a delicious nut that are most famous for
its perfect association with cocoa or chocolate… Hazelnuts are high in
manganese, vitamin E, B6 and other B vitamins and magnesium. These minerals and
vitamins all assist in the optimal function of the nervous system, cancer
prevention (based on the research, specifically bladder cancer), digestive
tract function and mood/ mental health/ memory.
Research suggests that Ingestion of healthy fats from
nuts such hazelnuts is associated with a reduction in ‘bad’/ LDL cholesterol.
So chomp away on a handful of hazelnuts and other healthy raw nuts each day. To
make nut eating a little more exciting, perhaps make your own trail mix with a
variety of raw and roasted nuts, dried inca berries, sultanas, cranberries and
bits of dark chocolate. Yum!
References:
Al-Waili NS & Saloom KY. (1999). Effects of topical honey on post-operative wound infections due to gram positive and gram negative bacteria following caesarean sections and hysterectomies. Eur J Med Res. Vol 26 (3). Pg.126-30.
Viuda-Martos, M etal. (2008). Functional Properties of Honey, Propolis, and Royal Jelly. Journ Food Sci. Vol 73(9). Pg. R117- R124.
Chang, J & C, NG (2009). The Use of Honey for Wound Care Management. J Home Care Hosp Prof, Vol 27 (5), Pg. 308-316.
Farooqui, TA. & Farooqui, A, (2011).
Health Benefits of Honey: Implications for Treating Cardiovascular Diseases.
Curr Nutr & Food Sci, Vol 7 (4).
Pg. 232-252
Balasinska, B etal. (2005). Dietary horseradish reduces plasma cholesterol in mice. Nutr Res, Vol 25 (10), Pg.
937-945.
