Eating Food As Medicine
"When diet is wrong, medicine is of no use. When diet is correct, medicine is of no need"
-Ayurveda Proverb
"Food is more powerful than anything you will find in your medicine cabinet. The most powerful medicine is at the end of your fork, not at the bottle of your pill bottle"
- Mark Hyman, MD
What we intake, makes us what we are. Intake means, what we eat, drink, breathe, hear, see, smell, taste, and think (or not think) determines our health, well-being, longevity, energy level, and creativity and gives us the ability not only to survive but to thrive.
Food as Medicine is based on the idea that the food we eat can have a powerful impact on our health and well-being. This concept is rooted in the traditional wisdom of many cultures, which have long recognized the healing properties of certain foods and herbs.
There is growing scientific evidence to support the idea that certain foods can have medicinal properties. For example, some foods are high in antioxidants, which can help to protect our cells from damage and reduce our risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. Other foods contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which is a key driver of many chronic diseases.
Some specific examples of foods that have been shown to have medicinal properties include:
- Turmeric: This spice contains a compound called curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is effective in reducing pain and inflammation in people with arthritis, as well as in protecting against certain types of cancer.
- Ginger: Ginger is another spice that has anti-inflammatory properties. It is effective in reducing nausea and vomiting in people undergoing chemotherapy, as well as in reducing pain and inflammation in people with osteoarthritis.
- Berries: Many types of berries, including blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries, are high in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. They have been shown to have anti-cancer properties, as well as to help improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Cruciferous vegetables: Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms, and Brussels sprouts are rich in compounds called glucosinolates, which have been shown to have anti-cancer properties. They also contain other beneficial compounds like vitamins and fiber, which can help to support overall health.
While it is important to remember that no single food can provide all the nutrients our bodies need for optimal health, incorporating a variety of whole foods into our diets can help to support our overall well-being and reduce our risk of chronic diseases. Eating healthy food has to become a part of tastes & lifestyle.
Remember, eating food as medicine is not about restriction or deprivation, but rather about choosing foods that support your overall health and well-being. By making intentional choices about the foods you consume, you can help to prevent chronic diseases and support a healthy, vibrant life.
Food is a medicine that is not a substitute for proper diagnosis, treatment, and using modern medicine and care from your physicians. Still, it is an adjunct therapy and as a prevention tool to reduce dosages of medications and their side effects.
You are the Healer.
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FUNCTIONAL FOODS
Functional Food is a term used to describe a type of food that provides health benefits beyond basic nutrition. These foods are often enriched with additional nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, or antioxidants, or they may contain bioactive compounds that can positively impact health. Functional foods can be natural whole foods, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, or they can be specially formulated foods or supplements.
Examples of functional foods include probiotics, which are foods that contain live microorganisms that can improve gut health, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in certain types of fish and can reduce inflammation and promote heart health. Other examples include fortified cereals, plant sterol-enriched margarines, and herbal supplements.
Functional foods are becoming increasingly popular as consumers seek out ways to improve their health and well-being through diet. However, it is important to note that functional foods should not be seen as a replacement for a healthy, balanced diet. While they can provide added health benefits, they should be consumed in moderation as part of an overall healthy lifestyle.
Ayurveda Functional Food as Medicine
Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, places a strong emphasis on food as medicine and recognizes the concept of functional foods. In Ayurveda, foods are classified based on their taste, energy, and post-digestive effect, and are categorized into six tastes: sweet, sour, salty, spicy, bitter, and astringent.
Some functional foods in Ayurveda include:
- Turmeric: This spice contains curcumin, a bioactive compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and is used to treat a variety of health conditions.
- Ginger: This root has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and is used to treat digestive disorders, nausea, and colds.
- Tulsi (Holy Basil): This herb has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties and treats respiratory disorders, fever, and stress.
- Triphala: This combination of three fruits (amla, haritaki, and bibhitaki) has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and laxative properties and is used to improve digestion, boost immunity, and detoxify the body.
- Ghee: This clarified butter is used in Ayurvedic medicine as a carrier for herbs and is believed to improve digestion, boost immunity, and promote overall health.
- Coconut Milk has been used as Rasayana (rejuvenating) for vata-related neuro-muscular disorders and energy boosters.
- Moong Dal (a lentil), has a sweet taste and is easy to digest & promotes gut health & strength.
- Of course, both fresh raw and cooked vegetables, fruits, and nuts are essential to good health. In Ayurveda, it is believed that each person has a unique constitution or dosha and that certain foods may be beneficial or harmful based on their dosha. Therefore, functional foods in Ayurveda are often personalized based on an individual's constitution and health condition. AI will employ individualized medicine like Ayurveda did it thousands of years ago.
Use Food to Eat As Medicine to Heal & Prevent Disease
Neema Malhotra, M.D.
Eat Food as Medicine
Food Can Prevent Disease
Food Can Help You Heal
Food Can Make You Healthy
You are What You Intake
Eating Food as Medicine
Eating food as medicine involves making intentional choices about the foods we consume in order to support our overall health and well-being. Here are some tips for incorporating this approach into your diet:
- Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods: Instead of processed foods and snacks that are high in refined sugars and unhealthy fats, choose whole foods that are rich in nutrients like vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. This includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
- Choose foods with anti-inflammatory properties: Chronic inflammation is linked to a range of health problems, so incorporating foods with anti-inflammatory properties can help to support overall health. This includes foods like fatty fish (such as salmon), turmeric, ginger, garlic, and dark leafy greens.
- Prioritize variety: Eating a wide range of foods ensures that you are getting a variety of nutrients that support overall health. This includes different types of fruits and vegetables, as well as different types of proteins (such as fish, poultry, legumes, and nuts).
- Consider your individual needs: Different people have different nutritional needs based on factors like age, gender, and activity level. If you have specific health concerns, it may be helpful to consult with a registered dietitian or other healthcare professional to create an eating plan that meets your unique needs.
- Experiment with herbs and spices: Many herbs and spices have medicinal properties and can be used to add flavor and nutrition to your meals. For example, turmeric can be added to curries and soups, ginger can be used in smoothies and stir-fries, and herbs like basil and oregano can be added to salads and pasta dishes.
Remember, eating food as medicine is not about restriction or deprivation, but rather about choosing foods that support your overall health and well-being. By making intentional choices about the foods you consume, you can help to prevent chronic diseases and support a healthy, vibrant life.
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Your are the Healer.
Let us Explore. I am your coach.
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Neema Malhotra, M.D.
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