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Iron-Deficiency Anemia

Iron-Deficiency Anemia

Anemia tends to come in two forms- pernicious anaemia and iron deficiency. If you gave pernicious anaemia , it is owning to  a lack of intrinsic factor needed to absorb vitamin B12, which is needed for the production of red blood cell in the body. A number of disorder can create B12 malabsorption, including gastritis, Crohn’s disease and coeliac disease. Smoking also inhibits absorption of iron. If you have been diagnosed as suffering from anemia the nromal procedure is to take a large amount of iron- but it is very important to make sure the co factors, which are vitamin B12, folic acid and vitamin C, are taken at the same time to optimize absorption.

Anemia, the condition often associated with iron deficiency, was first recorded 3,500 years ago. Iron is a component of the red blood cells and the muscles, assisting in the transportation of oxygen throughout the body. Women lose twice as much iron as men, and are more likely to be deficient, particularly during child bearing years. Drinking coffee within an hour of a meal can reduce iron absorption by up to 80 %

Iron is an essential mineral nutrient. It is a component of hemoglobin in red blood cells and returns waste carbon dioxide from  the cells to the lungs. The myoglobin in red muscle tissues transports oxygen into the tissues for energy storage. Iron is also a component of certain metabolic enzymes. Iron in the body that is not used is stored in the spleen, bone marrow, and liver. Today, more than 500 million people around suffer from anemia.

Iron absorption occurs in the proximal duodenum, with the amount of iron absorbed being dependent on the sufficiency of iron stores.

  • Necessary for production of hemoglobin and certain enzymes
  • necessary for immune activity
  • required to supply oxygen to the cells
  • required by the liver
  • protects against some free radicals

Deficiency symptoms

  • anemia, growth problems, some forms of deafness, pallor, breathlessness, tiredness and reduced bone density

Special notes:Common illness in children and benefits of herbal medicine

  • Toxicity is rare, but excess iron can cause constipation. Children are at higher risk of iron poisoning and it is recommended that you keep all supplements out of their reach
  • Ferric iron will destroy vitamin E
  • Consuming caffeine drinks with, or within an hour of, a meal can inhibit absorption by up to 80%
  • Only about 8% of iron taken orally will actually be absorbed  by the bloodstream.
  • Copper, cobalt, manganese, and vitamin C, are required  for iron to be used by the body, and should be taken at the same time.
  • Women with heavy menstrual periods will require iron supplements, as may pregnant and lactating women.

Increased levels of iron may be required by infants, children , athletes or vegetarians.  Iron supplements can be prescribed by your physicians if necessary.  The best form is ferrous iron or organic iron, and they are available in a wide variety off doses – usually up to 300 mg .

Individuals suffering from iron overload not only experience cellular damage from adverse redox chemistry of free iron, but also are at enhanced risk of infection. Iron overload may result from mutations in iron metabolism genes, such as in hereditary hemochromatosis. Alternatively, iron overload may be secondary to refractory anemias or caused by chronic transfusions.

Iron supplement can interfere with antibiotics and other medication. Be sure to tell your doctor about any supplements

 Cautions:

Avoid high doses supplements containing iron alone, unless they have been prescribed by your doctor. Some people suffer from hemochromatosis., an inherited disease which  causes them to absorb too much iron, and most don not even know they have it. Early symptoms include fatigue and aching joints.

A supplement containing iron alone could also mask a cause of anemia, such as bleeding ulcer, and prevent your doctor from making and early, life saving diagnosis.

Iron is best absorbed when taken on empty stomach. However, if iron upsets your stomach, have it with meals, preferably with a small amount of meat and a food or drink rich in vitamin C, such a broccoli to help boost the amount of iron your body absorb.

Good sources: liver, kidney, chicken, cocoa powder, beans, dark chocolate, shelfis, nuts, pulses, red meat, eggs yolks, molasses. Dark chocolate should only be eaten occasionally, but it does have the benefit of providing iron. Vegetarians can get adequate amounts of iron from beans and peas, tomatoes, spinach, leafy green vegetable, dried fruits, such as apricot, raisins and prunes, soak them  for a few minutes  in a warm water  to reduce the sugar content. Drain before serving. Brewers’s yeast, kelp and wheat bran are also good sources. Most breakfast cereals contain added iron.

Did you know?  If tomatoes or other acidic food are cooked in a cast iron pot, a healthy amount of iron leaches out of the cookware into the food.

REMINDER! If you have a medical condition, consult your doctor before taking supplements.

Madelena

nutrition and weight management

herbal medicine

MLD therapiest and reflexotherapy

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Benefits of Vitamin B2 riboflavin

Benefits of Vitamin B2 riboflavin

 

Cracked lips and mouth corners; a swollen, red tongue; eyes burning, itching, or tearing from extra blood vessels in the cornea; and a scaly, greasy dermatitis in skin folds.

Stress increases our need for riboflavin, vitamin B2, and during periods of emotional or physical pressure, you will need to insure that you increase your intake. Like  the other B vitamins, riboflavin is water soluble and easily antagonised by substance such as caffeine, alcohol, estrogen and in this case, Zinc.

Riboflavin plays a vital role in the production of thyroid hormone, which speed up metabolism and helps to ensure a steady supply of energy, also aids the body in producing  infection-fighting immune cells; it works in conjunction with iron to manufacture red blood cells, which transport oxygen to all the cells in the body. In addition,  riboflavin produces substance that asists antioxidants, such as Vitamin E, in protecting cells against damage form the naturally occurring, highly reactive molecules known as free radicals. It is essential for tissues maintenance and repair- the body use extra essential amounts to speed the healing of wounds after surgery, buns and other injuries.

The vitamin is also necessary to mantain the function of the eyes, and may be important for healthy nerves as well. In combination with other B vitamins, including vitamin B6 and niacin, it may help against a broad range of nerve  of nerve and other ailments, including Alzheimer disease, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis, as well as anxiety, stress and even fatigue.

! B2 is necesary for healthy skin, hair, and nails, but too much alcohol and coffee will destroy this vitamin!

Dosage 50 mg is adequate, although your practitioner may recommend higher doses for therapeutic purposes. The best supplements are those that contain all of the B vitamins.

Facts:

Vitamin B2, riboflavin is far more stable than thiamine, although it can be destroyed by excess zinc, antibiotics, estrogen, caffeine, and alcohol. Sunlight can also destroy riboflavin, which is why milk cartons are made from opaques materials.

  • Aids growths
  • promotes skin, hair and nail health
  • necessary for metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates
  • necessary for reproduction
  • activates vitamin B6
  • convert carbohydrates to energy
  • reduces the frequency and severity of migraines
  • Riboflavin has proved valuable in treating skin disorder including rosacea, which causes facial flushing and skin pustules in many adults.

Deficiency symptoms

Sore mouth, lips and tongue, insomnia, photosensitivity, bloodshot, gritty eyes, scale red skin on the sides of the nose. Stress increases your need for riboflavin.

Good sources. Milk, yogurt,   liver, fish, eggs, meat, leafy green vegetables, yeast, fish, wholegrains, avocados, mushrooms.

Therapeutic uses: Some anemias, cataracts, vision problems ( in particular eye fatigue) acne rosacea and other skin problems, carpal tunnel syndrome.

Special notes: riboflavin is not toxic at any known level. However, some minor symptoms of excessive riboflavin include mild numbness and itching and burning sensation

Like thiamine, riboflavin requires other B vitamins to work most effectively.

A well balanced diet is especially important for the elderly, many of whom are deficient in riboflavin and other B vitamins.

Cautions

Reminder! If you have a medical or psychiatric condition, consult your doctor before taking supplements.

Madelena

nutrition and weight management

herbal medicine

MLD therapiest

 

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Pneumonia

What is pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an inflammation of one or both  lungs, which is usually caused by an infection. This inflammation causes tiny air sacs (called the aleveoli) inside your lungs to fill with fluid. This makes it harder for the lungs to work properly. Your body sends white blood cells to your lungs to try to fight the infection. Although this helps kill the germs, it can also make it harder for your lungs to pass oxygen into your bloodstream.

What causes pneumonia?

Many different kinds of bacteria, viruses and, occasionaly fungi can cause pneumonia. The most  common cause is a type of bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae, but in individual cases the cause can be unknown

In winter the number of cases of pneumonia rises. This is because of infection spreading from person to person, and because other infections are more to common in the winter, such as influenza (flu). An infection with flu can lower your immune system, increasing your risk of picking up pneumonia

What are the symptoms?

If you have pneumonia, you will feel unwell and experience symptoms that are similar to flu or a chest infection. The symptoms usually develop gradually over days, but sometimes they can progress much faster

Almost all people with pneumonia will have a high temperature. This can sometimes be very high and you might also sweat and shiver. Another symptom is a cough that brings up phlegm (mucus).

If your breathing is quick, this suggests that the pneumonia is likely to be severe. Confusion is also a serious sign.

A sharp pain in the side of your chest, wich becomes worse when you take a deep breath, usually means that pleurisy has developed. This measn the thin outer covering of the lung becomes infected and inflamed by the pneumonia.

Who is the most of risk?

Anyone of any age can get pneumonia. In adults, approximately 5-11 people out of every 1,000 get the condition each year in the UK. Pheumonia can be more of a threat for two groups of people:

  • Firstly, people who have a higher risk of developing pneumonia, such as those with a weaker immune system.
  • Secondly, people who are not at extra risk of developing pneumonia, but if they do develop it they may experience worse effects. This group includes people with heart or lung disease and other medical conditions.

Both these groups need to take more care to reduce their chances of developing pneumonia and any potential complications.

People in these high-risk groups include:

  • older people, babies and infants
  • people with long-term heart, lung and kidney conditions, and those with diabetes
  • people with cancer, especially those having chemotherapy or who have leukaemia or lymphomapeople
  • people who smoke or drink alcohol to excess
  • people receiving drugs that suppress the immune system, and those with HIV/AIDS.

In addition to these groups, people who are in hospital for other problems sometimes developpneumonia during their stay. This does not mean that the hospital is unhygienic, but that their resistance to the germs that can cause pneumonia has been weakened by thir other medical problems.

 Preventing pneumonia

Not smoking is essential to reduce risk of pneumonia. Smokers have an increased risk of developing pneumonia and other chest  infections-and so do children whose parents smokeInfections that are common in winter can increase the risk of pneumonia. Therfore , its important to practice good hygiene to reduce the spread of germs.

One person in five in the UK is affected by lung disease. Millions more are at risk.

 

If you are experiencing the symptoms described here, seek medical advice as soons as possible

 

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Vitamine B1 or Thiamine

Vitamine B1 or Thiamine is a water soluble vitamin, which means it is not stored in the body.

A member  of the B complex family, it is necessary for the functioning of the nervous system.

Thiamine is easily  destroyed by air, water, caffeine, alcohol, estrogen and food additives, so its necessary to eat fresh, whole foods in order to get optimum levels of this important vitamin. All of the B complex vitamins should be taken in combination for best effect.

Thiamine is the lest stable of the vitamins, and cooking and processing cause massive losses to occur.

It is known as the “morale vitamin”, because of its effect on mental outlook and the nervous system in general.

  • necessary for the production of energy, brain, muscle , heart an the nervous system function.
  • necessary for the conversion of carbohydrates to energy
  • improves mental state
  • promotes growth

Deficiency symptoms

  • the most common deficiency symptoms is beriberi, and long term deficiency can take a great time to put right, even when the diet is altered to supply adequate amounts.

Good sources

  • dried yeast, beans, wholegrains, oatmeal, pork, vegetable, milk, brown rice

Therapeutic uses

postoperative pain, treatment of the herpes, zone zoster ( shingles), epilepsy, trigeminal neuralgia and sensory neuropathy in diabetes

Special notes

Vitamin B1 is not toxic in any known quantities and is one of the safest of the vitamins

Foods that claim to be thiamine enriched are likely to contain less than normal quantities, since the thiamine lost in processing is usually more than the quantity added

The B vitamins are synergistic, which means that they work together. Insure that you take vitamins B1, B2 and B6 in roughly equal

quantities.

A folic acid deficiency and eating large quantities of raw fish, blackcurrants and red cabbage among other , will discourage thiamine metabolism

Smoking, alcohol, the contraceptive pill and a diet high in sugar will increase requirements.

REMINDER! If you have a medical condition, consult your doctor before taking supplements.

Madelena

nutrition and weight management

herbal medicine

MLD therapiest

 

 

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Vitamin A, retinol and beta carotene

Vitamin A

Retinol and beta carotene

Retinol is the naturally occurring form of vitamin A, and it is founded mainly in animal product. Beta -carotene, also called “plant” vitamin A, is, in fact, a carotenoid, which is converted into vitamin A by our livers. Vitamin A stores in your body can be depleted by infection, so is a good idea to boost your intake during colds, flu and other viral and bacterial conditions. Retinol is metabolized better by your body if you take it with fat, oil, or protein in the same meal.

Beta carotene is found in all brightly coloured fruits and vegetables, and is generally believed to be safer than retinol, which is fat soluble.

Alpha carotene is found in carrots and pumpkin; lycopene is abundant in red fruits, such as watermelon, red grapefruit, guava and , in particular, cooked tomatoes. Lutein and zeaxanthin are plentiful in dark green vegetables, pumpkin an red peppers, and crytoxanthin is present in mangoes, oranges and peaches.

The primary benefit of carotenoids lies in their antioxidant effect- protecting the cells of the body from damage by unstable oxygen molecules called free radicals.

Carotenoids may guard against certain types of cancer, apparently by limiting the abnormal growth of cells. Lycopene, for instance, appears to inhibit the development of prostate cancer. Lycopene may also be effective against cancer off the stomach and digestive tract. Studies show that high intakes of alpha carotene, lutein and zeasanthin decrease the risk of lung cancer, and that crypoxbathib and alpha carotene lower the risk of cervical cancer.

There is a link between low levels of carotenoids and menstrual disorder.

Facts:

  • boost immunity
  • help to prevent cancer
  • antiaging
  • necessary for healthy eyesight, mucous membrane, synthesis of protein, and tissue development

Deficiency symptoms

  • poor vision (night blindness), mouth ulcers, frequent infections, dandruff, your scalp may become dry, and acne.

of retinol : liver, fish liver oils, cheese, butter

of betacarotene: carrots, apricots, cantaloupe, parsley, spinach, kale, sweet potatoes

Carotenoids are pigments that give plants their colour and beta carotene in particular is a good antioxidant which may help to slow down the ageing process and prevent cancer.

Take vitamin E and C with vitamin, A, since polyunsaturated fatty acids work against vitamin A unless there are antioxidants present

The body needs Zinc to utilise stored vitamin A

Retinol in very high dosses may causes headaches, some nausea, and liver problems. Pregnant women, ot those planning a pregnancy, should not take in excess of 7.500 iu per day because it can cause birth defects. They should also avoid eating animal livers.

In a major European study lycopene was shown to be effective in preventing heart attacks. Men who consumed large amounts of lycopene had only half the risk of a heart attack compared with men who took small amounts. the protective effect was most marked among non smokers.  All carotenoides, in special alpha carotene and lycopene, block the formation of LDL (‘bad’) cholesterol, which can lead to heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems.

REMINDER! If you have a medical condition, consult your doctor before taking supplements.

Madelena

nutrition and weight management

herbal medicine

MLD therapiest

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Causes and symptoms of Acne

Causes and symptoms of Acne

Although most people associate acne with the troublesome teenage years, it can erupt at any age. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to control outbreaks- no matter how old are you when they occur.

Symptoms

  • hard red bumps or pus-filled lesions on the skin
  • red, inflamed skin with fluid filled lumps or cyst

What it is

Spots and other skin eruptions are the hallmarks of acne, a sometimes chronic condition of the face, back, chest, neck, shoulders and other area of the body. The most common form ( acne vulgaris) encompasses blackheads, whiteheads and raised red blemishes with semisolid centre. In severe cases ( cystic acne), cluster of painful, fluid filled cyst or firm, painless lumps appear beneath the skin surface; both can lead to unsightly permanent pitting and scarring. For teenagers especially, acne can be embarrassing and emotionally condition.

What causes it

Acne occurs when sebaceous glands at the base of the hair follicles of the skin secrete too much sebum, this thick, oily substance is normally released from the pores to keep the skin lubricated and healthy. If the sebum backs up, it can form hard plugs, or comedos, that block the pores and cause spots. Should one of these oil plugs rupture beneath the skin’s surface, a localised bacterial infection can develop.

Hormonal imbalances can lead to an overproduction of sebum- a common problem during adolescence, especially in boys. In women, menstrual periods or pregnancy can also create acne-producing hormonal disturbance. Other acne triggers include emotional stress; the friction or rubbing of clothing against the skin; and certain medication, particularly steroids, contraceptive or drugs that affect hormone levels. Heredity may play a role as well.

How supplements can help

Most people will benefit from trying the supplements. It often takes three to four weeks, or longer, to notice results.

Vitamin B6 may be useful for acne aggravated by menstrual cycles or the menopause. Vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium promote a healthy immune system, helping to keep acne-causing bacteria in check. Taken with any or all of these vitamins, Zinc enhances immune function, reduce inflammation, and promotes healthy hormone levels. Long term use of zinc, inhibits copper absorption, so it should be taken with that mineral.

The herbal approach

The dietary factor is related to the state of the body’s ability to metabolise fats and carbohydrates

The herbal approach aims at supporting the metabolism of these food  and at helping lymphatic drainage and body elimination. Dietarily, the intake of fats, sugars and carbohydrates must be reduces, while more fruit and vegetables be eaten.

Chasteberry is traditionally used to help with the treatment of menstruation-related acne. Other herbal remedies that are traditionally used for the treatment of acne include burdock, yellow dock, red clover are especially useful, lymphatic like Echinacea and Pokeweed Root and hepatics alike Blue Flag and Dandelion should also be considered

What else you can do

  • wash daily, using a natural soap and water
  • eat a balanced diet; avoid foods you may feel may act as acne triggers
  • choose natural cosmetic based on Aloe Vera, Neem oil, Lavander and Tea Tree essential oil, avoid coconut oil (can clog the pores)
  • avoid squeezing spots, rub the face; it increases inflammation and can cause scarring
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Dandelion the best natural sources of potassium

Dandelion the best natural sources of potassium

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

I would like to introduce one of my favourite herb: dandelion. Don’t weed out your dandelions, embrace them 🙂

Constituents: Glycosides, triterpenoids, choline, up to 5% potassium.

Actions: Diuretic, cholagogue, anti-rheumatic, laxative, tonic.

Dandelion is a very powerful diuretic, its action comparable to that of the drug “Frusemide”.

The usual effect of a drug stimulating the kidney function is a loss of vital potassium from the body, which aggravates any cardio-vascular problem present. Patients which take Frusemide, also are monitored for Potassium level, and if the level drops under normal range, Potassium is administrated, to replace what was lost.

A moderate potassium deficiency can increase your blood pressure, lead to salt sensitivity, increase your risk of cardiovascular disease and reduce the health of your bones. In addition to heart arrhythmias, excessively low potassium levels — a condition called hypokalemia — can cause glucose intolerance, weakness, fatigue, muscle cramps and stomach problems. In some cases, heart arrhythmia, or an irregular heartbeat, can be fatal and lead to sudden death.  When the heart does not beat properly, it cannot effectively pump blood to the brain, organs and muscles.

Potassium is well absorbed from the small intestine, with about 90 percent absorption, but is one of the most soluble minerals, so it is easily lost in cooking and processing foods.

On the other hand, with Dandelion, we have one of the best natural sources of potassium. It thus makes an ideally balanced diuretic that may be used safely wherever such an action is needed, including in cases of water retention due to heart problems.

As a cholagogue it may be used in inflammation and congestion of liver and gall bladder. It is specific cases of congestive jaundice. As part of a wider treatment for muscular rheumatism it can be most effective. This herb is a most valuable  general tonic and perhaps the best widely applicable diuretic and liver tonic.

The whole plant is bitter, particularly the root which has digestive stimulating properties. This action can be harnessed in a decoction to encourage bowel movements ( bile being a natural laxative) and is safe and effective even for children.

SUMMARY: Dandelion aids the liver and kidneys to clear bodily wastes, it is a go to herb for those suffering from chronic skin and joints problems, including acne and eczema, arthritis and rheumatism.

 

Homemade  dandelion and carrot soap: dandelion infused olive oil, carrot pulp, turmeric,  shea butter, coconut oil, palm oil. No flagrance. Anti-allergic, anti-fungal, antimicrobial.

Properties of the carrot and dandelion soap combine to make this a great soap for fighting acne, ageing, and is extra moisturising. Beta carotene, a precursor to active vitamin A is critical for healing any type of wound. Dandelion Rich in Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium and Phosphorous, these are all minerals which are required for healthy skin function. The natural anti-fungal content and the high alkaline levels, help fight off infection in the skin tissues, which can be useful for eczema and the bacteria which promotes acne. The anti-fungal and antimicrobial properties help to keep the skin clean and safe.

 

Madelena

herbal medicine

nutrition and weight management

MLD therapiest
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What is a portion? Why count calories?

What is a portion? Below are some examples of what constitutes 1 portion of each food group.

A healthy balanced diet is important for a maintaining good health. It improves general wellbeing, helps with weight management and reduce the risk of long term conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer.

Why count calories?

If you are trying to lose or gain weight, it is useful to have an understanding of the amount of calories in the foods and drink you consume. Knowing the calorie contents of food helps us to carefully select the types of food we eat so that we can avoid excess, choose healthier options and maintain a healthy weight. 1 kilogram is 7,000 calories, so if you consume just 100 calories per day more than your requirements  e.g. by eating one or two biscuits each day), in one year this is equal to 36,500 calories. This could mean a weight gain of around 5 kg (10lb) in one year, just by having 100 calories per day more  than you need.

Below are some examples of what constitutes 1 portion of each food group.

Fruit and vegetables:

ONE portion = 80g = any of these

  • 1 apple, banana, pear, orange or other similar sized fruit
  • 2 plums or similar sized fruit
  • ½ a grapefruit or avocado
  • 1 slice of large fruit, such as melon or pineapple
  • 3 heaped tablespoons of vegetables (raw, cooked, frozen or tinned)
  • 3 heaped tablespoons of beans and pulses (however much you eat, beansand pulses count as a maximum of 1 portion a day)
  • 3 heaped tablespoons of fruit salad (fresh or tinned in fruit juice) or stewed fruit
  • 1 heaped tablespoon of dried fruit (such as raisins and apricots)
  • 1 handful of grapes, cherries or berries
  • a dessert bowl of salad
  • a glass (150ml) of fruit juice (however much you drink, fruit juice counts as a

maximum of 1 portion a day)

Bread, cereal, rice and pasta and potatoes:

  • 1 slice bread
  • 1 egg sized potato
  • 3 tbsp breakfast cereal
  • 2 heaped tablespoons of cooked pasta and rice

Milk and dairy:

  • 200 ml of milk
  • 150g low fat yoghurt
  • 125g cottage cheese
  • 30g hard cheese

Meat, fish, eggs, beans and other non-dairy source of protein:

  • 85g-100g cooked meat or fish
  • 3-4 tablespoons of dried beans
  • 2 eggs
  •  tablespoons of nuts or seed

 

 

 

 

 

 

Madelena

nutrition&weight management

herbal medicine

MLD therapiest

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Signs of toxic overload

Signs of toxic overload

Answer the following questions as truthfully as you can.
The aim of a detox programme are to reduce the workload of the digestive system, allowing it to perform more efficiently, and to stimulate the parts of your body that are responsible for cleansing and elimination.
The food detox programme improves the digestive system and immunity, increases the actions of the liver and kidneys, the main organ of detoxification.

However  to get the most out of detoxing you need to look after your mind as well as your body. Well being depends on maintaining a balance between your emotional, mental, spiritual and physical health, and if this balance is upset it disrupts your body’s harmony and leads to ill health.

Assess your toxic load

1) Do you feel tired when you wake up in the morning even though you have had enough sleep?
2 ) Do you drink more than 3 cups of coffees, tea or caffeinated fizzy drinks such as cola day?
3) Do you suffer from skin rashes, spot around the mouth or eczema?
4) Do you suffer from bloating after meals?
5) Do you have an alcoholic drink most days?
6) Do you smoke or libe with smokers?
7) Do you live or work in a city?
8) Do you rarely eat fresh fruit or vegetables?
9) Do you eat read meat more than twice a week?
10) Do you eat fried food and junk foods?
11) Do you suffer from constant colds, hay fever or allergies?
12. Do you have mood swings?
13) Do you crave certain foods such as sweets and bread?
14) Do you skip meals, especially breakfast?
15) Do you put weight easily?
16) Do you find difficult co concentrate?
17) Do you often have irregular bowel movement ( constipation or diarrhoea)?
18) Do your joint or muscle sometimes ache?
19) Do you feel tired and lethargic most of the time?
20) Do you suffer from fungal infections such as thrush, athlete’s foot or ringworm?

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Common illness in children and benefits of herbal medicine

Common illness in children and benefits of herbal medicine:

Children’s illness, even in western medicine  is widely accepted principle that the child should be sparingly prescribed drugs and the only specific medicine in mild dosage should be used. However, even these drugs would carry their own risk factors. Antibiotics if given from an early age, weaken the body of the child. Alternatively, herbal medicine is a very good option for children, to build up their immunity and resistance against disease and make them stronger, without side effects.

Many children’s illness can be resolved using gentle herbal remedies, however when symptoms persist or worsen, parents should take their child to see a doctor. Otherwise for the usual children’s problems, herbal medicine are a great solution.

Natural Health Remedies for Children, Common illness in children and benefits of herbal medicine, nutrition, herbal medicine

Benefits of herbal medicine for children: 

  • strengthen the child’s constitution and help to build a strong immune system
  • Gentle source of treatment
  • Some herbs like Echincea, Astragalus and Garlic have been tested in laboratories and have been proven beneficial to the immune system
  • Maintain physical and emotional child’s balance
  • Last but not least, plants and herbs can help the child to become more aware of the natural healing power of plants

Common illness in children and benefits of herbal medicine:

  • Colic ( spasm in the intestines) is the most common in the first three months of a child’s life
  • Sleeplessness, this can be a result of irritability, anger, hunger, dirty nappy, colic over excitement and illness. In older children it may be due to irregular bedtimes, being hot or cold, over-tiredness, nose, stress or anxiety, food allergy, too much caffeine from cola drinks, too much sugar, problems with tonsils and adenoids
  • Teething problems: during this period of change, the child will often be irritable and will have a greater likelihood of suffering digestive or nervous problems. Symptoms: irritable, angry, fussy and have inflamed and sore gums, sometimes fever dry mouth
  • Nappy rash occurs when skin is irritated. Symptoms: itchy skin, restlessness, blisters around the nappy area
  • Fever occurs when the body is fighting an infection, the immune system has been weakened, it also occurs when a child is suffering from stress or anxiety and can occur during teething. Symptoms: pale face, restlessness, thirst, shivering, fever with pounding pulse, dry and hot skin, a burning pain in the limbs etc.
  • Glue ear
  • Sore throats and coughs
  • Minor cuts and scrapes
  • Chickenpox
  • When the body are not able to eliminate the body waste products, toxins through the lungs, kidneys or liver, the body expels them through the skin.  Avoid petroleum based products and scented baby products and do not use detergents or fabric softeners to wash the baby’s clothes. Diet also can be the cause.
  • Headlice
  • Measles and mumps

 

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Benefits of Manual lymphatic drainage

Benefits of Manual lymphatic drainage(MLD)

Lymphatic massage is an advanced therapy. This massage treatment is fully tailored to each individuals needs. Before you start your treatment your therapist will carry out a full consultation ( check Blood pressure, heart rate, Saturation of Oxygen in the cells, medication, allergies or any other relevant information) with you to find out where your areas of concern are and if there is any restriction to any part of the treatment. You will be massaged from head to toe and each area of concern that you mentioned will have special attention focused on it.

Alkaline water pH-9 is provided before and after MLD.

Furthermore, the clients are encouraged to increase the fluid intake (water or water with lemon) . The best way to support a healthy lymphatic system is by drinking plenty of water and engaging in gentle exercise, which will flush out toxins.

Manual lymphatic drainage can be use for many different conditions, and benefits healthy people as much as benefits people with serious illness.

  • Toxins such as microorganisms, metabolic waste and chemical are removed from the tissue
  • Proteins are removed from the tissue and returned to the blood circulation, preventing protein buildup in the tissue, which leads to chronic inflammation
  • Speeding the healing inflammation and reducing infection through an increased lymph flow that helps to distribute immune cells throughout the body
  • Relaxing, nurturing and supporting , it helps to decrease stress, depression, insomnia, fatigue.
  • Reduce constipation and abdominal pain
  • Restore intestinal peristalsis,  improves the motility of abdominal organs and improves breathing
  • Very effective in reducing oedema and relaxing soft tissues including muscle pain. Oedema can be caused by inactivity, hormonal changes, diet or scar tissue. Scar tissue can result from injuries, surgery, radiation or infections, also can be sometimes a side effect of medical treatment, such as treatment with steroids, or can be a symptoms of more serious conditions and a doctor must be consult before receiving MLD
  • Surgery . MLD can be used before and after surgery, including cosmetic surgery, to speed healing and reduce oedema, Also, being deeply relaxing can lessen the client’s stress and anxiety. After surgery, MLD can help to reduce inflammation, speed healing and reduce scar tissue. However due to risk of infection and the risk of blood clots, MLD should never be performed after surgery without the approval and possibly the direction of the client’s surgeon
  • Speeds healing, reduce swelling and pain  – soft tissue injury
  • Sluggish Immune system. Frequent colds and allergies are indication for MLD
  • Relieving stress and tension. Adrenaline are secreted into the blood stream, causing muscle tension, heart and respiratory rate increases, as fight of flight response. In the long run, chronic stress can contribute to degenerative disease. During the MLD muscles relax, heart and breathing rates decrease, moving into relaxation that promotes healing and balances
  • Fatigue, Mild Depression 
  • Anti ageing treatment. The massage remove wastes and toxins from skin cells and stimulates circulation, bringing nutrients to the skin and damage resulting from exposure to cold and sun, improves appearance and texture, reducing fibrosis. MLD is an important part of the skin care. MLD helps such condition as acne, rosacea, and eczema, however MLD should be avoided during the acute phase of any skin condition. Lymphatic drainage is a very successful beauty treatment, rejuvenate collagen fibers and slow the aging process
  • Detoxification treatment
  • Body mind therapies because is gentle and deeply relaxing
  • Remedying cellulite– enhance the body circulation , improve nutrition, increase metabolism

Contraindications of Manual lymphatic drainage

  • Thromobosis and phlebitis
  • Serious illness such as : active cancer, however when a client is in remission and no longer being treated for cancer MLD is generally considered safe
  • Acute conditions and infectious conditions, fever, contagious skin conditions, infected , open, discharging fluid, or inflamed ( red, hot, swollen or painful)
  • During asthma attack
  • During allergies reaction
  • Low blood pressure

​SCHEDULE A FREE LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE CONSULTATION

For further details on any of the above please call Madelena on 07947887043 to discuss.

 

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Herbal medicine, natural therapies

Herbal medicine is used to treat the whole person.

Herbal remedies create balance in the body, enabling the body’s self healing abilities, so that the body an fight and reject the illness, therefore allowing good health to prevail.  Herbs can also be used to help to prevent illness and promote good health.

They are therefore synergistically holistic. Herbal medicine do not simply reduce the pain of an illness; they work on the mind, body and spirit of the client.

After taking herbal remedies, the client will have a greater feeling of personal well being. The aim is to heal the underlying cause of the illness, therefore enhancing the body’s natural self healing abilities.  Modern drug often relieve the symptoms of the client’s illness rather the overall problems. It is known that treatment or suppression of symptoms will not rid the body of the disease itself. . This should lead to increased vitality, longevity and optimal well being.

Herbal medicine consist of more than one active compound. This is why they are essentially different to pharmaceuticals. Herbal medicine work holistically. They treat the whole body. Some people say that the herbal medicine do not work as quickly as drugs and so are not as effective. They couldn’t be more wrong: herbal remedies often do not produce quick relief, what they do produce is a more longer lasting cure.

An example would be in western medicine, doctors often prescribe synthetic diuretics to patients who have trouble passing urine, as these drugs increase the flow of urine. However, this drug also seriously reduce the patient’s potassium level. The counteract this, the doctor has to prescribe a potassium supplement. In comparison, a herbalist would use dandelion leaves, which are a potent diuretic, but also contain potassium to naturally replace that which is lost.

Herbal medicines taken in normal therapeutic doses are safe and produce minimal risk. However, as a herbalist we need to be careful when suggesting herbs for children, pregnant an nursing woman, the old and the critically ill.

The benefit of herbal medicine is that most of them are gentle in action, and most not produce any toxic side effects when used over a long time.

 

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Women’s health

Women’s health. Plant based medicine play an important role in the lives of  many women.

This is because herbal remedies fulfil a woman’s desire to deal with her health problems in a more sensitive manner, with minimal side effects.

When we get symptoms, our body’s usually trying to tell us that something wrong is happening with us. Therefore, we start to take medication, which suppresses the symptoms without treating the underlying cause. Herbal medicine, the natural approach, on the other hand works, on all our body’s system to bring our body back into balance, relieving the symptoms, but also treating the root of the problem. This is because diet, herbal and other natural treatment restore homeostasis the perfect balance to the body, so that everything begins to work as it should.  It may take a bit of effort at first to adjust the diet and lifestyle, but the benefits will be worth it. No matter how old you are, the sooner you start to make positive changes, the sooner you acquire the welfare, now and in the long term.

  • Menstrual Cycle (regulating your cycle);
  • Anaemia
  • Fluid retention, dizziness, tiredness,
  • Breast problems
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS),
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Premenstrual syndrome ( PMS), period pain, lack of period,  heavy periods,
  • Fibroids, endometriosis
  • Stretch marks, cellulite, varicose vein
  • Preventing cancer of the womb
  • Vaginal infections, thrush ( yeast infections)
  • Infertility (herbal medicine may help induce fertility in some cases)
  • Painful sex
  • Pregnancy,  pregnancy diabetes, breastfeeding, antenatal depression
  • Menopause (a natural menopause),
  • Backache, constipation, bleeding gums, cramps, indigestion,
  • Insomnia, morning sickness, pelvic pain, haemorrhoids,  hair loss, memory loss and poor concentration.

 

 

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Manual lymphatic drainage

Manual lymphatic drainage is described as “One of the best kept secrets on the health and beauty scene”.

Manual lymphatic drainage’s intensely relaxing effect masks the strength of the treatment itself. It is a very gentle, repetitive and rhythmical light touch massage that improves the ability of the body’s lymphatic system to cleanse from the inside out

Energetic and Mind Body Effects of Manual Lymphatic drainage

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) was developed in the 1930’s by the Danish practitioner Dr Emil Vodder and widely recognised and practised in American and European clinics to treat variety of different conditions.

Breathing techniques are also an important part of this treatment.

You’ll usually be lying down and may have to remove some of your clothing. The massage is done without any oils or creams, using the hands very gently to move the skin in a particular direction.

Lymph drainage massage has many beneficial effects beyond the physiological process such as meditative state. While stimulating lymph flow on a physiological level, MLD will relax the client breath and heart rate, resulting in a balancing  of the client energy.

The MLD Treatment – what to expect
The first visit to a trained MLD therapist will include a consultation during which the therapist will recommend the number and frequency of future sessions. Each session will last approximately one hour. Where appropriate the therapist will work in conjunction with your medical practitioner

Lymphatic drainage is a specialized hand technique that consists of very gentle and rhythmic movements, administered by a highly trained therapist. Each stroke slightly moves the skin in the direction of the lymphatic flow to encourage the drainage of fluid and waste. Depending what your complaints are, the focus of a lymph massage for general immune stimulation is typically on the upper body, including the face, neck, and arms. After your lymph massage, it’s important to drink plenty of water, reduce your salt intake and avoid alcohol.

Manual Lymph Drainage 

  • 35 Minutes –£ 35
  • 45 Minutes – £ 45
  • 60 Minutes – £60
  • Anti ageing massage 30 minutes: £30

Madelena- MLD therapist

nutrition and weight management advisor

Book an appointment

human anatomy, lymphatic system, medical illustration, lymph nodes
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Benefits of eating apples

Apples, food that heal

Apples, food that heal are high in pectin, a fibre and and slow release sugar that help to regulate the body’s blood sugar level and improve heart health.

Apples contain important vitamins  and minerals, that promotes among other things strong and healthy bones.

Benefits of eating apples ( green, red, yellow apples). Green apple contain malic acid a useful digestive help. Red apples, rich in antioxidants, that can protect against neurological damage associated with condition such as: Alzheimers’s disease. The pectin helps lower the body’s absorption of excess dietary fats.

  • blood sugar regulation
  • constipation and diarrhoea ( can provide relief from both constipation and diarrhoea, depending of body needs)
  • protecting bones
  • reduce cholesterol

Don’t forget!

Apples most of them are coated with wax to give a shine and keep the fresh over long periods, hence, always wash  thoroughly these apple before eating.

Go organic and from sources as local as possible, from the fresh fruit without chemical contamination.

 Do not peel the skin!  Peeling can remove more than half an apple’s fibre, Vitamin C and iron.

 

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