Nutrition Counsellor 1

04/06/2025

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03/31/2025

SALT: A Gift and a Warning

Salt has shaped civilizations for thousands of years, from ancient China to the Roman Empire. Once regarded as so valuable that it served as currency and a means of food preservation, salt exists today in numerous varieties, including table salt, sea salt, and Himalayan pink salt.

However, while it is essential for nerve function and hydration, excessive salt intake can pose serious health risks. High consumption of salt is a significant contributor to hypertension, which in turn increases the likelihood of heart disease and stroke. It may also lead to kidney disease, osteoporosis, and stomach cancer. The World Health Organization advises limiting salt intake to less than 5 grams daily. Processed foods, fast food, and canned products frequently contain unhealthy amounts of salt. Choosing fresh, whole foods and herbs for flavor can help reduce salt consumption.

Additionally, staying well-hydrated is important for balancing sodium levels in the body. Opting for unrefined salts, such as Himalayan or Celtic sea salt, in moderation can provide beneficial minerals. Ultimately, balance is essential. Salt can enhance our lives, but an excess can have detrimental effects.

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References:

Report:

World Health Organization. (2021). Reducing salt intake to prevent hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. WHO Report. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240031690

Scientific Articles:

Strazzullo, P., D'Elia, L., Kandala, N. B., & Cappuccio, F. P. (2009). Salt intake, stroke, and cardiovascular disease: Meta-analysis of prospective studies. British Medical Journal, 339, b4567. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.b4567

Web Sources:

American Heart Association. (2022). How salt affects your heart health. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sodium

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We serve as your guide for functional health and disease prevention. Please reach out to us!

08/22/2024

CRANBERRIES
are renowned for their distinctive tartness and rich flavor, but their benefits extend far beyond their culinary uses. Ongoing research has revealed a multitude of health benefits associated with cranberries, making them more than just a delicious fruit. In fact, the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recognize cranberries as a nutrient-dense fruit. An 8-ounce glass of cranberry juice cocktail provides a remarkable 137% of the daily value of vitamin C.

Historically, cranberries have been revered for their health-promoting properties, with a long-standing history of traditional remedies and cultural significance, especially within Native American communities. Today, cranberries are highly valued for their significant antioxidant properties, which have potential implications for various aspects of well-being.

Particularly noteworthy is their impact on urinary tract health. Cranberries contain compounds that can hinder bacterial adhesion to the bladder walls, potentially reducing the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). This is especially beneficial for high-risk groups such as the elderly. Furthermore, the acidic nature of cranberry juice may promote collagen production, supporting skin health and potentially reducing signs of aging.

The unique composition of cranberries, low in potassium and high in vitamin C, makes them an excellent dietary choice for individuals with kidney disease. Their ability to prevent UTIs, which are a common concern for individuals with kidney disease, further underscores their value in this context.

Several studies suggest that regular consumption of cranberry juice or extract may improve crucial risk factors for heart disease, including cholesterol balance, blood pressure, and homocysteine levels. This highlights the potential of cranberries to be an essential part of a heart-healthy diet.

While cranberries are generally well-tolerated, it's important to note that excessive consumption due to their oxalate content may pose a risk for individuals prone to kidney stones, especially those made of calcium oxalate.

The wide-ranging health benefits of cranberries emphasize the importance of including them in our daily dietary habits to strengthen and maintain overall well-being.

Dre Nadine Dorelus
Functional Nutrition Counselor
HEALED4GOOD - CEO