The Nutrition of Sprouts

Sprouts are truly a miracle food! They have 10 - 30 times more concentrated nutrients than even the best vegetables. Imagine the plant in its youth before the ravages of age have caused it to age and decrease in nutritional value. In its youth, in fact, in its first seven or so days of its sprouting, the seed has all the nutrients it needs to survive for those few days. All it needs is water and the right temperature with sunlight to help it grow. Otherwise, the plant is self-sustained. Now imagine yourself eating this powerful load of nutrients rather than the fruit of the plant in its older age or eating the food that has its nutrition steamed, fried or baked out of it. This perspective really makes one realize the power of sprouts! Those small sprouts have more nutrition than their harvested fruit or veggie parents! 

an entry from WHATINSPIRESU blog

Following are a few sprouts and their nutritional benefits:

Adzuki 

• lowers LDL cholesterol
• regulates insulin
• fights breast and colon cancer

Broccoli

• fights colon, prostate, rectum, esophagus, lung, bladder, and stomach cancer
• effective for inflammations and hot swellings
• effective for hangovers
• best among the sprouts for treating breast cancer: 1 - 2 T a day 

Clover

• relaxes the nervous system
• settles the stomach and treats throat and stomach cancer
• as an excellent expectorant, treats whooping cough
• promotes fertility

Fenugreek

• treats blood poisoning, failing eyesight, fevers, palpitations, liver and kidney troubles
• treats anemia
• increases mother's milk production (therefore people with breast cancer should avoid)
• notable as a treatment for diabetes

Lentils

• lowers LDL cholesterol
• regulates insulin
• fights breast and colon cancer

Mung Beans

• prevents prostate problems, glandular dysfunction
• breast cancer
• treats premature balding and graying

Radish

• cleans the blood
• as an excellent expectorant, treats whooping cough
• facilitates digestion

Sunflower

• excellent source of balanced amino acids for building protein
• activates every cell in the immune system
• builds skeletal, muscular and neurological systems

This information was presented at Hippocrates Health Institute. For further studies, the health benefits of 44 different types of sprouts are very well articulated in chapter 11 of the book Lifeforce by Dr. Brian Clement of Hippocrates Health Institute, a raw food lifestyle center. Scientific data about nutritional value in sprouts is published by the USDA in the National Agricultural Library at http://ndb.nal.usda.gov/ndb/foods/list, the USDA Food Composition Database.

Home Sprouting: All You Need to Know

Toxic Metals Affecting the Body

A large reason for eating raw food—organic, organic, organic—is to not only nourish the body but to also boost the immune system. By eating as pesticide and chemical free as possible with all the high doses of fiber for scouring the body and vitamins and minerals for nourishing it, heavy metals can gradually be “washed” away. Unfortunately, even organic food has pesticides in it. We share one planet, and rain and dust don’t bother with passports and visas when entering other countries or “restricted” spaces. Therefore, all humans are exposed to pollutants, heavy metals being just one of the large categories, but it’s the high exposure of heavy metals—not typical to the raw food diet—that causes the most havoc on the body.

Lead is contained in paints, insecticides, pottery, toothpaste, plastic, gasoline, batteries, newspaper, canned foods, chocolate, etc. It accumulates in the brain, liver, bones, kidneys and spleen. It can alter behavior and intelligence.

Nickel can be found in stainless steel cutlery, pots and pans, and dental fillings. It accumulates in bones, kidneys, sinuses, the brain and the immune system. Chronic nickel toxicity can lead to skin conditions.

Arsenic is in cigarette smoke, laundry detergents, beer, seafood, drinking water, wine, clothes, and wallpaper. It accumulates in the liver, kidneys and lungs.

Cadmium is found in soft drinks, pesticides, fungicides, plastics, rust-proofing, rubber, cigarette smoke and water softeners. It accumulates in the kidneys, prostate and eyes.

Uranium can cause cancer and birth defects. Since Hiroshima, Chernobyl and now recently Japan, this toxic radioactive dust ends up in all of us since we all share one atmosphere. As the number of x-rays and CT scans performed on people has soared, these imaging tests now are responsible for about 50% of the radiation North Americans are exposed to—up from 15% in 1980. (The New York Times)

Aluminum is used in water filtering, flocculation (to remove dirt), which it also does to our blood, causing stroke and heart attack as it tries to remove our white and red blood cells. It accumulates in our bones, kidneys and breasts and causes anemia. It is found in deodorants that glue our sweat glands so toxins cannot get out, which in turn leads to breast cancer. Aluminum in pots, pans and foil can cause Alzheimer’s.

Toxic man-mined debris:

Toxic man-made elements are very difficult to get rid of because they become part of our body at a cellular level. They look like familiar minerals, so the body tries to use them like a nutritional element, for instance:

Mercury ------->  Selenium

Lead  ------->  Calcium

Cadmium  ------->  Zinc

Aluminum, Nickel, Uranium  ------>  Magnesium

Also and so very ironic because medical science is aware of the havoc that heavy metals have on the body, a large majority of "immunizations" have toxic metals in them, mercury being the most common. And the link to serious health concerns is seriously raised by the presence of these heavy metals.

(notes from a lecture at Hippocrates Health Institute)

Raw Food Centerpieces

During my three-week stay at Hippocrates Health Institute, two or three times a week a beautiful raw food centerpiece was added to the food line. These usually appeared on the two days a week when nuts were included in the menu. The idea of not eating nuts every day is that they can be rich and many people have GI track difficulties and therefore have trouble evacuating, and because nuts can get caught in old fecal matter or in pockets, it's best to initially detox without eating them. This is a large reason for limited nuts to only two to three times a week during the initial detox but it's also  recommended by HHI as a lifestyle choice even after leaving HHI. If more reasoning is needed for limiting nuts, I once heard a health lecturer say that eating more than 40 grams of nuts a day is rough on the kidneys. Hmm, there seems to be some sense in that so I try to control myself ... but I have to say, nuts are one thing that I really enjoy eating, probably because they give me a lot of energy.

Not sure of the ingredients, but I'd guess broccoli and sunflower seeds as a base.
Whatever it was, no one was complaining!

Pepper Pecan Pate

Just an aside:  For people with candida, eating only certain kinds of nuts are recommended - walnuts and almonds are best. Cashews are very moldy, and HHI absolutely does not serve them, not to mention that there are almost no sources where cashews are truly raw as they are almost always irradiated when coming into the states. I read that pistachios are as moldy as cashews, but they do appear occasionally in a salad here at HHI. When I asked Ken Blue, the executive chef, if they were considered a moldy nut too, he had never heard that. Anyway, everyone does there own specific research, but it's nice to be aware that there pistachios might not be such a good choice for people with candida.

Minerals List & Their Food Sources

Natural Health Treatment (NHT) highly recommends an "all round mineral" supplement, Vemma’s New Vision brand Ionic Minerals. The brand has (1) trace minerals (2) in their ionic form (3) which taste good but (4) have a sugar-free option for diabetics, and (5) are free from heavy metals.

I'm not advocating this but think it worth posting on as minerals are frequently lacking in our present-day food that is grown in mineral-depleted soil. But following is a listing of minerals that the body needs every day and followed by foods which are rich in the respective minerals. Eating right for one's health is SO MUCH BETTER than popping a pill for two main reasons - (1) the vitamins and minerals in food function synergetically with one another, something that can't happen effectively in chemically formed supplements, and (2) chemically formed supplements, although they are "natural", are still held together by talc and binders that are yes, chemically processed and therefore are in some small or great way toxic to the body. My suggestion, eat your way to good health.

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Common mineral deficiencies and foods for replenishing them:

Word of caution: Eating raw foods to replenish nutrients is the best bet as overdosing and throwing off the body's balance is easy with mineral supplements, but not with food.

Source - click to enlarge

Boron (B): apples, carrots, grapes, other raw fruits (except citrus), nuts, legumes, vegetables in general. Most often used for: arthritis

Calcium (Ca): blackstrap molasses, salmon, green leafy vegetables, almonds, sesame seeds, cheese, yogurt and other dairy products, broccoli, nettles, burdock root, parsley, raspberry leaves, yarrow, marshmallow root and yellow dock. Most often used for: osteoporosis, muscle cramps, heart palpitations, arthritis, brittle nails, pregnancy support, eczema, and high blood pressure. Note: Many types of calcium supplements are on the market, but choosing the correct one is essential as excess can cause high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis, arthritis, and kidney stones.

Chromium (Cr): New Vision Ionic Minerals, blackstrap molasses, beef and other meats/poultry/fish, brown rice, fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, dulse (seaweed), and  mushrooms. Most often used for: anxiety and nervousness and other serious mental challenges, ADD, depression, type II diabetes, hypoglycemia, heart diseases associated with coronary artery problems and infertility

Copper (Cu): blackstrap molasses, parsley, New Vision Ionic Minerals, Standard Process Labs brand Chezyn, almonds, broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, oats and other whole grains and legumes, nuts, seafood, sunflower oil and whole wheat. Most often used for: anemia, baldness, joint problems, improper cholesterol ratios, aneurysms, and retinal degeneration

Germanium (Ge): New Vision Ionic Minerals, mushrooms, seeds, vegetables (especially garlic and onions) and bran. Most often used for: cancer, asthma, arthritis, high blood pressure and osteoporosis

Iron (Fe): blackstrap molasses (maximum 2 teaspoons/day), parsley, leafy green vegetables, sea vegetables such as dulse, kelp and nori wrappers, prunes, black cherries, meat and seafood, nuts, whole grains and legumes, burdock, yellow dock, nettles and raspberry leaves. Most often used for: iron deficient anemia, decreased stamina and energy, weak immune system, digestive disorders (Crohn’s, Celiac, difficulty swallowing) and irritable nerves. Note: Two signs you may need natural iron supplements are ice chewing and a tan chin and cheek area when the rest of the face is a lighter complexion. Parasites can cause anemia.

Iodine (I): sea vegetables (kelp, dulse, nori wrappers), sesame seeds, raw spinach, zucchini, asparagus, Celtic sea salt, soy and soy products, garlic. Most often used for: thyroid problems, fatigue, and weight issues. Note: Some foods block the update of iodine into the thyroid gland when eaten raw and in large amounts. Iodine blocking foods include: Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, peaches, pears, cooked spinach and turnips. For an underactive thyroid, limit the intake of these substances to 4 cups/week.

Magnesium (Mg): blackstrap molasses (max of 2 teaspoons/day), dark green vegetables, potatoes (especially the skin), beans and other legumes, whole grains, almonds and other nuts, meat and fish, soy products, apricots, bananas, coconut (the organic unsulfited kind), dates, figs and avocados. Most often used for: constipation, hyperexcitability, nervousness, asthma, chronic fatigue, glaucoma and retinal problems, high blood pressure, heart problems (congestive heart failure), valve problems, arrhythmias), insomnia, muscle cramping and multiple sclerosis. Note: Potatoes grown on magnesium deficient soils (like Washington) are susceptible to the Potato Scab Virus, the virus thought to be linked with the same virus that causes Multiple Sclerosis in humans. Avoid scabby skinned potatoes.

Manganese (Mn): definitely parsley (1-2 tablespoons/day chopped and raw), green leafy vegetables, oats, pineapple, nuts, spinach, peppermint, apples, apricots, blueberries, celery, egg yolk, and whole grains. Most often used for: tendon and ligament problems (very common problems), tinnitus, skin rashes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, memory problems, diabetes, and breast problems

Molybdenum (Mo): beans and other legumes, dark green leafy vegetables, eggs, whole grains and wheat germ. Most often used for: asthma and gout

Oxygen (O): A diet with a minimum of 1 1/2 cups of raw fruits and 1 1/2 cups of raw vegetables daily will keep the body producing healthy red blood cells stocked with hemoglobin. Exercise or deep breathing exercises are essential to keep oxygenated. Self-test: Look at the little white moons at the base of your fingernails, all fingers except the little fingers should have moons. Without them, the body may not be getting enough oxygen to all the different organs. Oxygen fights off cancer because cancer can’t grow in oxygenated tissues.

Phosphorus (P): eggs, beans and other legumes, almonds, pumpkin seeds (great for prostate and normal hormone function in both males and females), sesame seeds (great for seasonal affective disorder and other forms of depression), bran and whole grains. Most often used for: bone pain, nosebleeds, and trembling.

Note: People who often drink soda pop (more than 4 per week), can easily imbalance the system resulting in too much phosphorus and not enough calcium and magnesium, a common cause of kidney stones and osteoporosis/osteopenia.

Potassium (K): Fresh fruits and vegetables of all kinds, blackstrap molasses, fish, dates, bananas, beans, sweet potatoes, white potatoes, brown rice, and nettles. Most often used for: heart disease, muscular fatigue and weakness, dry skin, depression, edema, insomnia, and counteracting acid bodies and replenishing the alkaline reserve

Selenium (Se): parsley, blackstrap molasses, mushrooms, nuts, salmon and other seafood, sesame seeds, vegetables, wheat germ, chicken, nettles, yarrow, raspberry leaf, garlic and whole grains. Most often used for: immune system stimulation, asthma, thyroid disease, heart disease, high cholesterol, macular degeneration (Standard Process brand Chezyn is an awesome product for this containing chelated zinc, copper and selenium in a natural food-based formula), abnormal pap smears, cancer and liver diseases

Silicon (Si): horsetail, radishes and other root vegetables, New Vision Ionic Minerals, whole grains, brown rice, soy and soy products and green peppers. Most often used for: weak nails that break and tear easily, healthy skin and hair, pliable blood vessels, Alzheimer’s disease, and osteoporosis

Sodium (Na): celery, kale, sesame seeds, Celtic sea salt, apples, carrots, and hot peppers are all good sources of organic sodium which replaces the inorganic molecules we get from salted and prepared foods. Most often used for: high blood pressure, glaucoma, dehydration, and brain dysfunctions such as memory, depression, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, and poor coordination. 

Sulfur (S): eggs, garlic, onions, dried beans, cruciforms (cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale) and soy. Most often used for: arthritis, asthma, back and joint pain and skin disease

Vanadium (V): parsley, snap beans, mushrooms, radishes, soy and soy products, olives, whole grains, seafood, corn and gelatin. Most often used for: diabetes, bone and tooth development, and dental health

Zinc (Zn) (the most common mineral deficiency): pumpkin seeds and other nuts, oatmeal, eggs, parsley, wheat germ and Standard Process brand Chezyn.  Most often used for: Prostate health, healthy immune function, impotence, menopause and perimenopausal health, memory, skin disease, pancreas and thyroid health, macular degeneration and other eye disorders, and bowel dysfunction. Note: A significant amount of zinc is lost through perspiration.

Once mineral deficiencies are noted, checking the entire periodic chart to see if the body is harboring any excesses in heavy metals and gasses is necessary.

The information on this page comes from Natural Health Treatment, in a slightly condensed and more succinct form.

Animal Protein vs. Plant-based Protein

What Is Protein?

Protein is a macronutrient that is composed of amino acids, also known as building blocks. There are in total 21 amino acids, and these are broken down into 9 essentials and 12 non-essentials -- the non-essentials, meaning the body (the liver) can synthesize them by itself. The other 9 aminos are essential as the human body cannot make them in any way or cannot make a sufficient quantity. Given that the human body is lacking 9 aminos, humans must make up for that deficiency by making healthy eating choices, which the majority of us are scientifically clueless about making.

Basically, there are two types of proteins - plant protein and animal protein. Animal protein contains "higher-quality" proteins, that is, they may contain all of the essential amino acids, but these proteins are not necessarily "better quality" proteins (reasons given below). Plant proteins, except in instances like quinoa and soybean (soy however is highly genetically modified and estrogenic), do not contain all of the essential proteins by themselves, but when combined with other plants having diverse amino acid patterns, all of the essential aminos can be provided. Therefore, eating a diverse diet as a vegan or vegetarian in order to get all of the complementary aminos is necessary.

From this information, it is clear that people can feed off of animal or only off of plants to get the proper amino acids for creating a healthy body.

How Much Protein Is Needed Daily (for Vegans)?

The industry standard for vegans is 0.9 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. This is a bit higher than the RDA standard because non-animal protein sources are not as available or complete (in qualitity) in amino acids as vegetarian ones. The easist way to calculate individual needs is to multiply .45 grams by a person's body weight in pounds to get the average. Or for the active athlete who wants to increase the protein intake to maintain or build muscle, figure 1.3 to 1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight. Following is the conversion formula:

To convert lbs to kg (lb = 2.2 kg). Protein intake (grams) = (weight in kg multiplied by .9)

What Is the Function of Protein?

The body needs proteins to grow, repair or replace tissue. Sometimes proteins facilitate or regulate bodily functions; other times they become part of a structure. Following are some roles that protein plays within the body:

• Proteins are building blocks of muscles, blood, intestines, bone, teeth, skin, hair and nails. Collagen is a fibrous protein known to be the elastin and structure of skin, vessels, etc and is found both inside and outside of the cells. Collage makes us about 25% of the protein within the body.
• Some proteins act as enzymes. Enzymes break down substances (like food) and build substances (like bones).
• Some hormones are proteins, examples: Growth hormone (promotes growth), insulin and glucagon (regulates blood sugar), thyroxin (regulates metabolic rate), calcitonin and parathormone (regualtes blood calcium) and antidiuretic hormone (regulates fluid and electrolyte balance).
• Proteins are regulators of fluid balance, a very important role for preventing swelling and water retention.
• Proteins help maintain the balance between acids and bases within the body fluids.
• Proteins act as transporters carrying important nutrients like vitamins and minerals and other molecules. Some proteins act as pumps maintaining the perfect balance of nutrients inside and outside of the cell walls.
• Proteins defend the body against disease in the form of antibodies. Antibodies are giant protein molecules designed specifically to combat "antigens", otherwise known as viruses and bacteria.
• Proteins are used as a source of energy when other sources like carbohydrates are not available.
• Proteins participate in blood clotting and vision.

Why Is Animal Protein Unhealthy for the Human Body?

The type of protein consumed makes a dramatic effect on the body. While protein is necessary for sustaining life and bodily functions, proteins from harmful sources or in high consumption actually are detrimental to the body. The average person in the United States consumes between 70-100 grams of protein a day. That is about double the recommended allowance, but the worst part is, the source of that protein is from animal flesh. Animal flesh is high in saturated fat, phosphorus, sulfurous amino acids, uric acid and nitrogen, not to mention that it throws the pH of the body off, creating an imbalance and a playground for cancer. So just what does animal flesh/protein do to the body:

Heart disease

Research has linked high intake of animal protein to high blood cholesterol levels and increased risk of heart disease.

Kidney Function (Gout & Kidney Stones)

The kidneys are the last filter for the body and have the role of excreting the end products of protein breakdown. When excess protein is consumed, the amino acids travel to the liver for a process call deamination. Deamination is the process of breaking down amino acids and converting them to ammonia. Ammonia, a toxic compound to the body, is then converted to urea and uric acid. High levels of uric acid are very damaging to the kidney, due to their high acidic nature, and can lead to kidney stones and gout, a kind of arthritis.

Mineral Loss (Osteoporosis)

Animal proteins are rich in the sulphur-containing amino acids cysteine and nethionine. These amino acids are highly acidic which cause stress on maintaining acid-alkaline homeostasis in the body. In order to balance the acidity, the body draws calcium (alkaline) out of the soft tissues and the bones. As a result, this process can lead to osteoporosis (bone deterioration). A loss of calcium also affects muscle contraction/relaxation (cramps), blood clotting, and nerve transmission. Calcium is an integral part of the body's function and easily obtainable from many vegan food sources.

Obesity

Some researchers have suggested that a high intake of animal protein alters hormones and the body's response to hormones, including leptin, which regulates energy intake and expenditure as well as appetite. By altering leptin, a person may cause the body to become resistant, which means that the body will not receive the message of "fullness". As a result, a person may not feel full and will keep eating. Furthermore, animal protein is high in saturated fat, which is a calorie dense macronutrient, therefore, contributing to weight gain.

Cancer:

Based on extensive research done by Dr. T. Colin Campbell, diets that contain animal protein turn on cancer genes. Campbell discovered that a person could alter gene expression by changing the diet from an animal-based one to a plant-based diet. Campbell's book China Study is a 20-year study done by the Chinese Academy of Preventative Medicine, Cornell University and the University of Oxford. Other studies have shown that a diet high in animal protein foods increased a person's risk for colon, breast, pancreas and prostate cancer.

Following is a chart showing that more than sufficient amounts of  protein can be derived from plant sources. Plant-based proteins are more easily assimilated in the body and therefore eating less than is suggested by the RDA can satisfy and nourish the body well.

 

Nuts / Seeds (1/4 cup or 4 tbls)	Protein (g)
Chia seed Hemp seed Flax seed Sunflower seed Salba Almond Pumpkin seed Sesame seed Pistachio Walnut Brazil nut Hazelnut Pine nut Cashew	12 10 8 8 7.4 7 7 7 6 5 5 5 4 4
Beans (1 cup cooked)	Protein (g)
Lentil Adzuki Cannellini (white bean) Cranberry bean Navy bean Split pea Anasazi Black bean Garbanzo (chick pea) Kidney bean Great northern bean Lima bean Pink bean Black-eyed pea Mung bean Pinto bean Green pea	18 17 17 17 16 16 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 14 14 14 9
Grains (1 cup cooked)	Protein (g)
Triticale Millet Amaranth Oat, bran Wild rice Rye berries Whole wheat Couscous Bulgar wheat Buckwheat Teff Oat groats Barley Quinoa Brown rice Spelt	25 8.4 7 7 7 7 6 6 6 6 6 6 5 5 5 5
Vegetables (1 cup, cooked)	Protein (g)
Corn (I large cob) Potato (with skin) Mushroom, oyster (1 cup) Avocado (1 raw fruit) Collard greens (1 cup) Peas (1/2 cup) Artichoke (medium) Broccoli (1 cup) Brussel Sprouts (1 cup) Mushroom, shitake (1 cup) Fennel (1 medium bulb) Swiss chard (1 cup) Sweet potato (1 cup) Kale (1 cup) Asparagus (5 spears) String beans (1 cup) Beets (1 cup) Cabbage (1 cup) Carrot  (1 cup) Cauliflower (1 cup) Rutabaga Squash (only zucchini and spaghetti) Celery (1 cup) Spinach (1 cup) Bell pepper (1 cup) Cucumber (1 cup, raw) Eggplant (1 cup) Leeks (1 cup) Lettuce (1 cup, raw) Okra (1/2 cup) Onion (1/2 cup)	5 5 5 4 4 4 4 4 4 3.5 3 3 3 2.5 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

(This chart is taken from The Holy Kale and modified for the person with strict candida. All items crossed out are great vegan/vegetarian protein sources but either because of high glucose, gluten, are a nightshade, or for other reasons, these anti-inflammatories of candida must be stricken from the diet. There are still plenty of vegan choices for the person with candida to eat the proper amount of protein daily without feeling the need to eat animal protein, which in itself is very inflammatory.)

What Are My Personal Protein Choices?

Like many people who are vegan or vegetarian, my muscles have definitely gotten leaner. In the past 3 1/2 years my weight has great fluctuated, mostly in the first 1 1/2 years when no one including myself could figure out my problem. Once I figured out my problem, I could adjust my eating to ward off reaction, and therefore, not be on a weight gain-loss rollercoaster.

Even so, I have questioned my amounts of protein, one of the main reasons I was eating eggs for the past year or so. However, I have discovered another source of protein that is rich in vitamins, minerals and micronutrients - sprouts! When the seed is just maturing, it is at its richest nutritionally speaking, and is a phenomenal meat and egg replacement for those transitioning or just a way of ensuring that one is getting the proper amount of protein for maintaining the vital body function listed above.

Type of Sprout	Percent of protein
Alfalfa sprouts Broccoli sprouts Pea sprouts Lentil sprouts Radish sprouts Red clover sprouts Garbanzo bean sprouts Mung sprouts	35% 35% 26% 26% 26% 26% 20% 20%

 

(percentages taken from The Healthy Eating Advisor)

 

So, I eat a variety of sprouts, hemp seed (one of those rare plant products that is a complete protein), spirula (another rare complete protein), nuts and seed, and many many vegetables. I've noticed that within the last few weeks, since being away from the fish eating I did in the US on vacation and upping my raw vegie intake, my nail health and hair quality are actually better. My nails are stronger and the color a bit pinker (paleness suggests anemia). Another comment on the escalating plant food in my diet is that early on after I first got systemic candida and started eating a 50+% raw food diet, my hair actually darkened! Victoria Boutenko, the raw foodist who really purports green smoothies, made that comment in either her book 12 Steps to Raw Foods or one of her books on green smoothies. Anyway, people started commenting that they didn't remember my hair being so dark, and I was that my hair had never had such body. Right! Victoria had written about some anti-aging factors related to a raw food diet, and my body changes are definitely supporting her analysis. 

 

 

Resources

 

Much of the above information was taken from a well-researched article at The Holy Kale.

For further studies in plant vs. animal protein, read T. Colin Campbell's phenomenally researched book The China Study: The Most Comprehensive Study of Nutrition Ever Conducted and the Startling Implications for Diet, Weight Loss, and Long-term Health. 

Potassium, Vital for Cell Development

In our fast food and convenient instant food world today, millions are suffering the consequences of the commercialized, processed foods that by their denaturing are potassium deficient. In result, skin and muscle tone become bad, the flesh does not cling firmly to the body's bony framework, lines and wrinkles fill the face and skin. One common ailment visible in many today is the prolapsing eyelids, that is, flabby excess skin starts to hang over the eye and making thousands turn to eyelid surgery every year. Droopy eyelids, wrinkled skin and loss of skin and muscle tone are the signs of potassium deficiency, not specifically related to the aging process.

Too bad potatoes are too starchy for me ... but there
so many other vegies that I CAN eat (see below!)

Potassium helps prevent hair loss, brittle teeth and nails, sinusitis, runny nose, toxic waste in the body, plus stunted growth. Potassium is vital for cell production and cell growth as well as the maintenance of the body. "Potassium deficiency is a proven contributing cause of many illnesses including: arthritis, kidney stones, atrial fibrillation, adrenal insufficiency, celiac disease, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, ulcerative colitis, hypothyroidism, irritable bowel syndrome, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, Crohn's disease, lupus, atherosclerosis, diabetes and stroke." Linda Page, ND, PhD Healthy Healing (www.healthyhealing.com). Parkinson's patients, people with systemic candida, IBS and cancer patients all need the revitalizing of potassium-rich foods to combat the evil happening within their bodies due to disease onset.

The human body can be likened to a flower or vegetable garden. Potassium is necessary for the health production of the substances that lend rigidity to plant stems and increase their resistance to the myriad of attacking diseases. Likewise, potassium is the element that changes seeds into plants and fuels the blooming of flowers. Without sufficient potassium, plants become stunted, and if the insufficiency continues, plants wither, turn yellow and die. In the same way, humans (and animals) also suffer from slow degeneration leading to cell death from potassium deficiency.

The healthy human body, balanced with vital potassium and other vitamins and minerals, can better withstand the attack of diseases and the aging process. People create their toxins by their eating and living habits. The properly nourished, healthy body gets a new bloodstream, a river of life continually circulating nutrients throughout the body, every 90 days. Every 11 months a set of billions of miraculous blood cells are replaced, and every 2 years the body rebuilds an entire new set of bones and hard tissues. The two great enemies of this recreation of the body are the toxic poisons from foods, air, water and soil that we ingest and the nutritional deficiencies created by an unhealthy diet. The truth of "we are what we eat" is exemplified by our dietary choices.

Potassium could be called the great detergent of arteries. It slows down hardening and clogging processes that cause harm to the whole cardiovascular system, and makes the flesh healthier and tenderer. There is little doubt, in animal or man, that the main function of potassium is to keep the tissues healthy, soft and pliable, as well as work to head off heart attacks and strokes. It can be said that potassium is to the soft tissues what calcium is to the hard structures. Potassium keeps the body young and supple, calcium keeps our frame strong and erect.

Body signs of potassium deficiency

• bone and muscle aches and pains, especially lower back
• the body feels heavy, tired and moving is an effort
• dizziness and/or shooting pains when straightening up after leaning over
• morning dull headaches upon arising and when stressed
• dull, faded-looking hair that lacks sheen and luster
• scalp itchiness and dryness; dandruff; premature hair thinning or balding
• hair is unmanageable, mats, often looks straw-like, is sometimes dry and sometimes oily
• eyes itch, feel sore and uncomfortable and appear bloodshot and watery
• eyelids may be granulated with white matter
• eyes tire easily and will not focus as they should
• physical and mental tiredness with the slightest effort
• loss of mental alertness and onset of confusion, making decisions difficult
• memory failure, even familiar names and places are easily forgotten
• easily impatient and irritable with family, friends, and people in general
• nervousness, depression, in a mental fog, difficulty accomplishing things due to mental fatigue, even the slightest effort leaves exhaustion, upset and trembling
• at times, hands and feet are chilled, even in warm weather, a clear sign of potassium deficiency

Much of this information comes from the insightful book Apple Cider Vinegar: Miracle Health System by Bragg and Bragg.

Fingernail Analysis

According to Natural Health Techniques, a good practitioner trained in fingernail analysis can look at a patient’s nails and be able to tell which organs are weak and which are healthy (not to be totally reliable).  Since the nails are the last to receive oxygen because they are the farthest from the heart, they are often the first to show signs of disease processes. Each finger reflects what is going on in specific organs.

What each finger and corresponding nail is attributed to:

• Thumb: what is going on in the brain, excretory system and in the reproductive organs
• Index Finger: what is going on in liver, gall bladder or nervous system
• Middle Finger: what is going on in the heart and circulation
• Ring Fingers: what is going on in the reproductive organs and the hormonal system
• Little Finger: what is going on in the digestive system

To analyze, look for abnormalities in the lunulae, color, texture and markings, shape, and pliability.

Nail Fungus

Middle finger - nail cuticle showing yeast challenge

Easy to miss as most practitioners look at the fingernails and not the toenails where nail fungus is most common. If having nail fungus, the safest, cheapest and most effective treatment is to apply Vick’s Vapo Rub once a day on the entire nail. Do this every day until the entire nail grows out, about 2 1/2 - 3 months. Clip the nail and keep it as short as possible during this process. The Vick’s has a high concentration of camphor in it which penetrates the nail and oxygenates the area. Fungus can’t live with that extra oxygen. Many times nail fungus is a sign that the person has a deep-seated yeast infection and has had this for years. 

Yeast is also suspected when the cuticles look reddish or have hang nails or people pick at them. But it can also be that they have their hands in chemicals or agents that dry out the cuticles so a good history is necessary when looking at the nails and anything else really.

If yeast infection exists, the preferred treatment for Natural Health Techniques (NHT) is Myrrh gum powder capsules. Myrrh gum is an herb that works for the greater portion of the population. Before taking it, figuring out the dosage (usually 1-3 capsules/day) is needed, and it should be taken for several months to kill the yeast from the inside out. This way the nail fungus will be gone permanently. Myrrh is not a good choice for children, but for adults it is the most common treatment for adults at NHT.

The Lunulae

(Lunula, singular; lunulae, plural) The lunulae are those little white moon things at the base of the nail. There should be 8 of these. The lunulae on the little fingers should be missing according to Eastern Medicine Philosophy. The one on the thumb nail should be 25% or less than the total length of the nail from base to flesh line at the top.

If the thumb lunula is too large the heart and circulation is working overtime and eventually this overworks the heart. The person may be exhibiting high blood pressure. Other signs that the heart is working overtime would be the presence of “heart line” on the ear lobe (a line just above the lobe itself) and a pointed tongue. If the tongue is red at the tip, there is a more serious involvement of the heart.

Lunulae on the little fingers also is a sign that the circulation is working overtime (especially in the digestive area). High blood pressure may be the cause as well.

Fewer than 8 lunulae:  Many rule-outs here such as poor circulation, anemia, fatigue, not enough oxygenation or exercise, heart disease, imbalanced nervous system, numbness, protein deficiency, Vitamin A deficiency or being weak-spirited (low life force or “chi”). Yes, taking deep breaths is important, for more read the Basics of Breathing handout and/or practice some meditation.

Lunulae are red or blue or there is a reddish or bluish tinge just above the lunulae but not on the rest of the nail:  Heart disease, heavy metal poisoning or lung disease.

Shoot-like things emanating from the border of the lunulae: This not very good sign can mean thyroid problems or cancer; many men with this on their thumb nail have been diagnosed with prostate cancer or have had their prostate removed due to cancer. It is reversible with proper treatment. PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) test and a Thyroid panel can be taken to verify any of these abnormalities.

An interesting note: You can tell often if a person is right-handed or left handed because the lunulae will be larger (or there may be more of them) on the hand that is used more often.

Nail Color

Nail color can be grouped into black, blue, brown/copper, green, blue-green, gray, yellow, pale, purple or red groups. Each color means something different and there are many rule-outs for each color.

Look for the color in general. Nails should be pink. When pressing down on the nail, the circulation should return within one second. This is called Capillary Refill Time. A change in nail color from trauma is not to greatly concerned about, but when nails without trauma look different, then some concern is in order.

• Black:  anemia, B-12 deficiency, bacterial infection, chronic kidney disease, adrenal gland problems, liver disease, cancer or melanomas, silver deposits (heavy metals), trauma
• Blue:  atherosclerosis, blood is too thick, liver disease, COPD (lung disease), copper or silver poisoning, decreased hemoglobin, drug reactions, gas poisoning, heart disease, hepatitis, high platelet counts, increased cholesterol, inflammation, kidneys with clogged arteries, lupus, prior strokes, rheumatoid arthritis, blood clots
• Green:  allergies to cleaning agents, bacillus infection, localized fungal infection, serious emphysema 
• Brown or Copper:  arsenic or copper poisoning, fungal infections.  
• Grey:  arthritis, edema, malnutrition, post-operative effects, glaucoma, lung problems, emphysema, cardio-pulmonary disease
• Yellow:  bleeding, diabetes, digestive problems, liver disease, hyperthyroidism, too much carrot juice, lymphatic problems, nail fungus, poor circulation, respiratory problems, vitamin E deficiency, fluid retention in the lymphatic system 
• Pale or White:  anemia, candida (yeast), low life force, overall mineral deficiency, heart or lung problems, hemorrhage, hookworm infestation, kidney disease, liver disease, malnutrition, ulcers 
• Purple: oxygen deprivation, circulatory problems, congenital problems 
• Red: brain hemorrhage, heart disease, high blood pressure, lung disease, stroke, carbon monoxide poisoning

Nail Texture and Markings

The most common are vertical ridges and split nails, horizontal dips, red bands at the tips, yellow tips and white spots. There are others, however.

Vertical Ridges and Split Nails:  adrenal gland problems, arthritic tendencies, asthma, broken heart, bronchitis, calcium deficiency, chronic fatigue, chronic inflammation, chronic stress, depression, emotional trauma, excretory system conditions, hyperactivity or overexertion, iron deficiency, kidney problems, laryngitis, nervous problems, poor digestion/absorption in the small intestine, chemicals from food, dieting, protein deficiency, respiratory problems, unhappiness, vitamin A deficiency, yeast and other fungi, lupus, chemo or radiation side effect, drugs or prescription use
  

Fingernail red lines at the tips

If ridges appear on all the nails, the intestines are not effectively assimilating the foods. For these cases, at NHT ionic or colloidal minerals are prescribed right away. They are supposedly the best, most easily digested vitamins and minerals on the market. 


Horizontal Dips:  poor circulation, picking at the nail bed, heart disease, stress, lack of essential nutrients, trauma

Red Bands at the Tips:  allergies, liver overload, inflammation of the gastro-intestinal tract

 Yellow Tips: liver problems, melanoma, poor digestion, smoker

White Spots: kidney or hormone imbalances, zinc deficiency, calcium deficiency, Vitamin A deficiency, excessive chemical or drug use of drugs processed through the kidneys, prostate or impotence problems, genital diseases such as chlamydia or syphilis

Nail Shape

The most common problems seen at NHT are short small beds, wide clubbed beds (clubbed means that the nails curve downward), and clubbed nails.

Short Small Beds: heart disease - for this NHT recommends Standard Process Cardio-Plus (a protomorphogen) to rebuild the heart

Wide Clubbed Nails: asbestos exposure, emphysema, lung disease - NHT treats this with Pneumotrophin (a protomorphogen) for 1-2 years to rebuild the lung tissue

Clubbed: Heart disease, liver disease, lung disease

Nail Pliability

Brittle or cracked nails: Calcium deficiency, impaired kidney function, iron deficiency, malnutrition, protein deficiency, thyroid problems, Vitamin A deficiency, Vitamin D deficiency

Soft and Thin nails: adrenal gland problems, can be associated with leg cramps, poor nutrition, protein deficiency, Vitamin C deficiency

Information taken from Natural Health Techniques