Sweet Potatoes Are Perfect For Diabetics

15 Reasons Why Sweet Potatoes Are Perfect For Diabetics

Sweet potatoes are a particular type of potatoes from the same order as regular ones with the difference that they are part of different species and a different family. You can find sweet potatoes in a variety of colors.

The most frequently found are the ones with white-cream and yellow-orange color. There are also sweet potatoes with purple flesh and they are extremely abundant in antioxidants. The most important thing about them is that they have excellent nutritional values.

15 Nutritious Facts:

1. Sweet potatoes are an excellent choice for diabetics since they contain natural sugars that decrease and stabilize the insulin resistance in diabetics. They are also good for the regulation of the sugar levels.

2. Sweet potatoes are rich in dietary fibers which are good for digestion. They also prevent colon cancer and help with constipation.

3. Sweet potatoes contain carotenoids which help in producing Vitamin A. This vitamin regenerates the respiratory system. So, people with respiratory problems, especially smokers should consume sweet potatoes more often.

4. Vitamin D is also contained in sweet potatoes. This vitamin is good for the teeth, heart, skin, bones, energy levels as well as for the normal function of the thyroid gland.

5. In general there can be an improvement of the heart functioning with the help of the potassium. This vitamin lowers the impact of the sodium, regulates blood pressure and makes a balance of the electrolytes.

The sweet potato has Vitamin B6 that prevents heart attacks, strokes and degenerative diseases.

6. The potassium in the sweet potatoes is good for healthy tissues and muscles. It also helps in reducing swelling and cramps, provides with energy and relaxes the muscles. It also regulates heartbeats and nerve signals.

7. Beta –carotene in the sweet potato acts like an anti –oxidant. It helps with arthritis, gout and asthma, protects against lung and breast cancer and it also reduces aging effects.

8. Since sweet potatoes are rich in folic acid, they are a great source of folic for healthy fetal development. Pregnant women should consume more sweet potatoes.

9. The potassium content in potatoes increases the flow of oxygen, regulates the balance of the body’s water and normalizes the heartbeats. The magnesium content on the other hand acts as an anti-stress agent.

10. Vitamin C is crucial for the entire body’s function and sweet potatoes have abundance of it.

11. Sweet potatoes are also rich in iron that has a crucial role in the producing of red and white blood cells. That’s why they help against anemia.

12. Did you know that you can use the water from the boiled potatoes for treating your skin? Especially for irritation of the skin, cleaning the pores and absorbing impurities.

The Vitamin C contained in the sweet potato will produce collagen while the vitamin E will help in the improvement of the complexion of the skin. Anthocyanins will help you in removing wrinkles and purifying the dark circles around the eyes.

13. If you suffer from painful pre-menstrual symptoms, the iron and manganese in sweet potatoes will soothe them.

14.Having problems with damaged hair and dandruff? The beta-carotene will prevent them and it will also stimulate hair growth.

15. Since sweet potatoes have an abundance of the vitamins vital for the enzyme, protein and carbohydrate metabolism you should consume them more often. However, you need to consult a doctor if you have ever had oxalate urinary tract stones.

Source: www.dailynutritionnews.com

"Weird 30-Second Trick Eliminates Diabetes"

"Weird 30-Second Trick Eliminates Diabetes"

If you have type 2 diabetes, type 1 diabetes, you’ve been diagnosed as pre-diabetic, or you have a loved one with any of these conditions, then stop what you are doing and listen; as these conditions and more can be completely reversed, by yourself, from the comfort of your own home and without having to visit a single doctor or surgery.

 

<= Click Here For More Details => 

In the next few minutes I’m going to share with you a little-known diabetes curing secret...

That the $245 billion– yes you heard me $245 BILLION a year diabetes pharmaceutical industry is desperately scrambling to try and suppress. And if it seems like I’m trying to make them out to be the boogy man, well, I am, and they are, because this cure – yes, I said cure – would destroy the business model that’s making them billions off this terrible disease.
I’m going to tell you about something that has been unanimously shunned by the Big Pharma bribed medical community. The same method that has caused doctors who dare to reveal it to be fined, harassed, sued and even JAILED…

And if you’re thinking this diabetes cure is about strenuous exercise or starving yourself of delicious meals…think again.

I’m talking about an all-natural, safe and permanent, yes that’s right permanent CURE for diabetes. I’m talking about not just covering up your diabetes symptoms through so called diabetes ‘management’ medications or treatments but tackling the root cause of your diabetes head on.
Grabbing the root of the weed that is diabetes, tearing it out, and tossing it away… for good.
Permanently.
Never to come back again.
All naturally, all safely, all by following this one of a kind method backed up by solid science.

This exact same secret has even led to my discovery of a simple, seemingly bizarre but highly effective 30 second trick...

To instantly increase your insulin sensitivity and energy expenditure, resulting in an immediate drop in blood sugar and rapid weight loss.
This trick is something you’ve never heard of before but something you can do right now at home, in just 30 seconds – and no I’m not talking about swallowing a single tablet or supplement, or doing a single bit of exercise. This trick, I promise, will surprise you.

Can you just imagine the absolute joy of finally saying Adios to your diabetes?

The feeling of waking up in the morning, knowing that your blood sugar is under your control and will be throughout the entire day… No matter what you eat, drink, or do…

'Insomnia may increase the risk of stroke,' researchers say

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, around 30% of the US population has insomnia. Now, as if having difficulty getting to sleep is not enough, new research suggests that insomniacs are at much higher risk of stroke than those without the sleep disorder.
 
The research team, including Ya-Wen Hsu of the Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science and the Department of Medical Research at Chi-Mei Medical Center, both in Taiwan, recently published their study in Stroke - a journal of the American Heart Association.
To reach their findings, the investigators analyzed randomly selected medical records of more than 21,000 people with insomnia in Taiwan, alongside the health records of 64,000 individuals without the disorder. All participants were followed-up for 4 years.
At the end of the follow-up period, individuals with insomnia were divided into different groups:

Researchers found that insomniacs, particularly those aged between 18 and 35 years at diagnosis, have a much higher stroke risk than those without the sleep disorder.

• Chronic or persistent insomnia (lasting 1 to 6 months)
• Relapse insomnia (return of insomnia after being free of the condition for more than 6 months at any evaluation point in the study), and
• Remission insomnia (a change from a diagnosis of insomnia to non-insomnia at any point during the study period).

Stroke risk highest among younger insomniacs

 

The researchers found that, throughout the follow-up period, 583 people with insomnia were admitted to the hospital as a result of stroke, while 962 individuals without insomnia were admitted for stroke.
Relative to the number of study participants, the researchers found that individuals with insomnia had a 54% increased risk of hospitalization for stroke, compared with non-insomniacs. Insomniacs who were diagnosed with the disorder between 18 and 35 years old were eight times more likely to be hospitalized for stroke than those without insomnia.
A higher 3-year cumulative incidence of stroke was found in people with persistent insomnia, compared with those in the remission group.
The investigators also found that insomniacs with diabetes had a higher risk of stroke than those without diabetes.

Although the research team says it is not fully clear as to why insomnia may increase stroke risk, past research has suggested that the sleep disorder can interfere with cardiovascular health by causing inflammation, increasing blood pressure and impairing glucose levels.
They add that certain behaviors - such as diet, exercise, alcohol use and smoking - could also influence the association between insomnia and stroke risk, as well as stress.

'Insomnia should be treated earlier to prevent future disease risk'

Since this study was conducted using participants from Taiwan, it is unclear as to whether the findings apply to other populations. However, the researchers note that studies from other countries have reported a similar link between insomnia and stroke.
"Though insomnia is the most common sleep complaint, it should not be perceived merely as a symptom of another disease," Hsu told Medical News Today. "Rather, it should be identified and treated earlier in clinical settings to prevent future disease risk."
However, he told us that although insomnia is a common problem, the results should not cause public panic regarding future stroke risk.
"Rather, we would like to point out that the patients or general population should pay more attention to their insomnia patterns overtime," he added. "If persistence of insomnia is found, they should seek early treatment to reduce their future risks of stroke."
Other studies have also suggested a link between insomnia and cardiovascular health. Medical News Today recently reported on a study suggesting that daylight savings in spring - when we lose an hour of sleep - may increase the risk of cardiac events, while another study indicates that symptoms of insomnia are associated with higher risk of death from heart-related problems.

Written by Honor Whiteman

Sources: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/274985.php?sr

Cinnamon Force: The Link Between Cinnamon and Blood Sugar

By Dr. Taryn  Forrelli, ND

For more than 5,000 years, a spice has lured humans with its ability to stimulate the senses: cinnamon.

The name alone evokes thoughts of home, where the smell of savory stews and scrumptious desserts fills the air and calms the mind. The desire to experience cinnamon's exotic aroma, taste its sweet sensation and employ its health benefits has spawned wars and, according to some, was an inspiration for Christopher Columbus' world exploration.

Today, there is renewed enthusiasm for this ancient botanical, which emerging science suggests may help maintain healthy blood sugar levels already within a normal range and help prevent unwanted weight gain when accompanied by diet and exercise.

Not Your Average Tree Bark
Cinnamon has been used as a culinary and health-promoting spice for thousands of years. It's mentioned in ancient Chinese texts and was part of a holy anointing oil described in the Bible.

There are two main varieties of cinnamon, Cinnamonum verum and Cinnamomum aromaticum, which are native to Sri Lanka and China, respectively. The bark of these evergreen trees has been used throughout history to flavor and preserve foods as well as warm the body, ease childbirth and provide relief from digestive complaints.

The USDA's Sweet Surprise
The recent revival of cinnamon as a prized health-promoting herb with particular benefits for the metabolic system can be largely attributed to work done by researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center more than a decade ago.

In studying the effects of different foods on blood sugar levels, the researchers made a surprising discovery. Good, old-fashioned apple pie, despite its high sugar content, didn't dramatically alter blood sugar levels. Through process of elimination, cinnamon was identified as the ingredient in the pie responsible for the desirable effect. Further research from the USDA and other prestigious institutions has since elucidated several impressive mechanisms by which this effect occurs.

But first, a biochemistry lesson . . .

The Importance of Healthy Insulin Response
All cells in the body are required to have a constant source of fuel for energy production. For most cells, the preferred fuel is glucose, which is easily obtained from sugars and starches in the diet. Since excess glucose in the blood can wreak havoc on the cardiovascular system, nerves, kidneys and eyes, the body has developed a metabolic response system that ensures blood sugar levels are kept relatively stable.

Crucial to this balancing act is insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas and released in response to a meal. Insulin delivers a message to the body's cells to absorb glucose from the bloodstream and use it for energy production. The ability of cells to respond to insulin is critical for not only maintaining healthy levels of blood sugar, but for preventing excessive fat production, inflammation, food cravings and fatigue.

Now, back to cinnamon . . .

Cinnamon's Key Chemistries
Cinnamon contains a unique group of phytonutrients known as polyphenol polymers which have been shown in laboratory studies to both enhance and mimic insulin activity, increasing insulin-dependent glucose metabolism roughly 20 times. In other words, these laboratory studies indicate that, in the presence of these phytonutrients, glucose may convert more efficiently into energy rather than be stored as potential energy in the form of fat. Additional research conducted at Iowa State University suggests the polyphenol polymers actually up-regulate the expression of genes involved in activating the insulin receptor on the cell surface, and thus may enhance glucose absorption and utilization.

Cinnamon's polyphenol polymers can't take all the credit though. A phytochemical present in the fat-soluble fraction of cinnamon called cinnamaldehyde has also been shown to support blood sugar and cholesterol metabolism in animals prone to blood sugar imbalances, most likely via its ability to modulate inflammation and quench free radicals, both of which can affect insulin sensitivity.

Taken together, these studies underscore the importance of using whole cinnamon rather than its isolated nutrients for optimally supporting a healthy blood sugar response. One study found as little as 1 g (1/4 tsp) a day of whole cinnamon for 40 days significantly improved markers of blood sugar metabolism and cholesterol metabolism. The subjects also continued to experience the benefits almost three weeks after stopping the cinnamon In other words, it's OK to miss a serving every now and then.

In addition to supporting normal insulin sensitivity, a recent clinical study suggests taking cinnamon with a meal high in carbohydrates may lessen the meal's impact on blood sugar metabolism by helping slow the rate at which the stomach empties after meals. The slower the stomach empties, the slower sugar is released into the bloodstream, and the easier it is to utilize. In the study, researchers gave 14 healthy subjects 300 g (1 1/5 cups) of rice pudding alone or seasoned with 6 g (1 1/2 tsp) of cinnamon. The addition of cinnamon lowered the rate at which the stomach emptied from 37 percent to 34.5 percent and resulted in more stable blood sugar levels after eating.

Cinnamon Force -- Support for Blood Sugar
Whether your health goal is to maintain normal blood sugar balance already within a normal range, healthy wight or support cardiovascular health, which is linked to both of these things, this ancient spice may be your best herbal ally.

But don't worry, you need not sprinkle it on everything you eat. New Chapter's Cinnamon Force features a unique blend of Cinnamonum verum and Cinnamomum aromaticum cinnamon, both of which are Potency Assured for bioactive polyphenols and cinnamaldehyde. New Chapter's unique supercritical extract process gently concentrates the full spectrum of phytonutrients available in cinnamon without the use of harsh solvents or heat. Two capsules provide the equivalent of 1 g of the world's finest cinnamon blend.

Now you can have your sugar and use it, too!

REFERENCES:

• Anderson RA, Broadhurst, CL, Polansky MM, et al. Isolation and characterization of polyphenol type-A polymers from cinnamon with insulin-like biological activity. J Agric Food Chem. 2004 Jan 14; 52(1): 65-70.
• Imparl-Radosevich J, Deas S, Polansky MM, et al. Regulation of PTP-1 and insulin receptor kinase by fractions from cinnamon: implications for cinnamon regulation of insulin signaling. Horm Res. 1998 Sep, 50(3): 177-82
• Subash Babu P, Prabuseenivasan S, Ignacimuthu S. Cinnamaldehyde – a potential antidiabetic agent. Phytomedicine. 2007 Jan; 14(1): 15-22. Epub 2006 Nov 30.
• Khan A. Safdar M, Muzzafar Ali Khan M, Nawak Khattak K, Anderson RA. Cinnamon improves glucose and lipids of people with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care. 2003 Dec; 26(12): 3215-8.
• Hlebowicz J, Darwiche G, Björgell O, Almér LO. Effect of cinnamon on postprandial blood glucose, gastric emptying and satiety in healthy subjects. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Jun; 85(6): 1552-6

Sources: http://www.evitamins.com/a/cinnamon-force-link-between-cinnamon-blood-sugar-804#.VIfO1cm17uc

6 Great Things About Grapefruit By Rachel Zachar,

When you think about common fruits that can provide benefits for your health, you might not immediately think grapefruit. However, grapefruit contains many vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other nutrients that can step up your health game. In addition, new research has illustrated that drinking the juice of grapefruit can supply significant support for multiple aspects of your health, including weight loss and blood sugar regulation. Let's explore some of the great ways grapefruits may be able to enhance your wellness.   1. Protects your skin Grapefruit is brimming with nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium and magnesium. The antioxidant vitamin C works to protect your skin from sun damage and also improve its overall appearance, tone and texture. In addition, grapefruit can provide hydration and contribute to forming collagen, one of the substances that is responsible for your skin's elasticity, firmness and fullness. Grapefruit essential oil can be applied to the skin after you dilute and combine it with a carrier oil like jojoba or avocado; however, it's best to do this before bedtime because wearing grapefruit on your skin and going out in the sun can cause strong, adverse reactions.    2. Lowers LDL cholesterol Pectin fiber is a form of fiber that can reduce hardening of the arteries, or atherosclerosis, and it's another ingredient found in grapefruit. By cutting down LDL “bad” cholesterol, grapefruit can also knock out many triglycerides and encourage healthy cholesterol levels. According to a study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, red grapefruit might be more effective than blond grapefruit at lowering blood triglycerides because of its lycopene content or other nutrients.   3. Provides heart support With the nutrients vitamin C, lycopene, potassium and fiber, grapefruit can provide significant support for maintaining the health of your heart. Potassium in particular can contribute to lowering blood pressure, and the other nutrients in grapefruit can improve your blood lipid levels, fight ischemic stroke and also prevent narrowing of the arteries—all of which can have an effect on your heart.    4. Fights diabetes According to recent research from UC Berkeley, grapefruit juice may be able to lower blood glucose and insulin levels, helping to regulate your blood sugar and fight diabetes. The presence of flavonoids and other nutrients in grapefruit may play a part in its effect on blood sugar.   5. May contribute to weight loss You may have heard about grapefruit being a contributor to weight loss in the past, but now there is more solid evidence for the claim. UC Berkeley researched the effect that drinking grapefruit juice had on test rats who were fed high-fat diets. The study demonstrated that rats on high-fat diets that drank grapefruit juice gained 18 percent less weight than water-drinking rats on high-fat diets; in addition, the rats that drank grapefruit juice on a high-fat also illustrated a 13 to 17 percent decrease in blood glucose levels and a threefold decrease in insulin levels. Pending human research, this new study could help solidify the connection between grapefruit juice and weight loss.    6. Supplies antioxidant protection Grapefruits are loaded with antioxidants, which can provide defense against cell-damaging free radicals and oxidation. Antioxidants work to scavenge free radicals and remove them from your body, preventing your cells from enduring damage. In addition, antioxidants can help prevent cancers caused by free radicals and benefit your immune system for an overall improvement in fighting illness.    Overall, grapefruits can provide many benefits for your health, with their nutrient-rich composition; red grapefruit is typically perceived to have more antioxidants and vitamins than the other types of grapefruit. However, consuming grapefruit is not right for everyone. If you're on any medications, it's advisable that you do not eat grapefruit or drink its juice, as it can cause adverse reactions. In addition, when applying grapefruit oil to your skin, it's important to first talk to a professional about the proper way to dilute it and do a test patch to ensure that you do not experience any allergic reactions. Sources: http://www.evitamins.com/a/6-great-things-about-grapefruit-1038#.VIenyMm17uc

Should You Add Baobab to Your Superfruit Rotation?

If you're not from Africa or have never been there to experience their own variety of fruits and vegetables, you're probably not too familiar with baobab. What is being touted as an up-and-coming superfruit is derived from the baobab tree, which is native to specific areas of Africa. It contains high levels of nutrients and antioxidants that may put it on par with fruits like oranges and others in the citrus family. Let's take a closer look at some of the possible uses and benefits of baobab.

Nutrient Content

While not much scientific research has been conducted on the health benefits of baobab, it still has many inherent properties that make it a force to be reckoned with in the fruit family. Baobab contains significant quantities of many minerals, including calcium, magnesium and potassium. In addition, a study in the journal Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition illustrates that consuming 40 grams of baobab pulp measures out to 85-100 percent of the recommended vitamin C intake for pregnant women—who need more vitamin C than what is typically recommended for adults. Forbes magazine reports that another benefit of baobab is that it has a high soluble fiber content, which contributes to laxative-like properties and may be able to benefit your digestion.

Uses

In addition to boosting your vitamin C and antioxidant levels when consumed, baobab has been used for many different purposes throughout its history in Africa. According to scientists at Oxford Brookes University, baobab may be able to provide benefits for those with type 2 diabetes, as its abundant polyphenol content has been shown to lower the glycemic response. Another popular use for baobab is in hair care, skin care and body products. Cathy Wong, ND, an alternative medicine specialist, explains that the essential fatty acids found in baobab oil can provide benefits for improving the health of your skin. In addition, it might be able to aid with reducing symptoms of eczema and asthma.

Forms

This superfruit has a watermelon-like appearance, though it is longer and thinner, and it provides a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor when consumed. While it may be difficult to find whole baobab fruits at your local grocery store, there are other forms of baobab that you can find at natural food stores. When consumed in powder form, the vitamin C content is at its highest and most potent, according to the British Nutrition Foundation. Stirring baobab powder into water to make a juice is a great way to reap its vitamin C benefits. In addition, you can sprinkle baobab powder onto plain yogurt, cereal or oatmeal for a light and refreshing flavor. Baobab bites and baobab juice are also becoming popular items sold in stores. While there is still not sufficient research to determine whether baobab can provide any significant, long-term health benefits, it is still a good option to try if you are looking for a fruit to boost your vitamin C levels and enhance your antioxidant protection. Don't attempt to consume baobab or use it for medicinal purposes without first consulting your doctor.

Sources: http://www.evitamins.com/a/should-you-add-baobab-superfruit-rotation-1081#.VIemXMm17uc