H IS FOR...

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

Some studies have suggested that because honey contains flavonoids/ antioxidants that it may play a role in reducing cardiovascular disease by reducing the inflammation present in the body. In saying this, consuming lower grade brands of honey that are heavily processed such as Capilano will not necessarily offer these sorts of benefits. Try organic raw honey such as the brand Ambrosia or various brands of activated Manuka honey.

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.

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.

Gonzalez, CA & Salvado, JS (2006).The potential of nuts in the prevention of cancer. British J Nutr. Vol 96 (S2), Pg 87-94