Health Benefits of Flaxseed

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Flaxseed is also known as linseed. This crops has been planted during the ancient times and is still commercially produced for its health and other benefits. It is also the riches plant source of omega-3 fatty acids and lignans.

The ancient crop list many health benefits which are the following:

• Fights constipation, diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome
• Lowers cholesterol 
• Helps prevent cancer
• Prevents diabetes
• Boosts immune system
• Helps manage weight and good for weight loss
• Enhances memory, mood, and attention
• Reduces symptoms of Menopause
• Reduces the risk of stroke and aids in the prevention of heart diseases
• Prevents or aids in the control of hypertension 

This wonder crop can be ingested whole, crushed, ground or in oil form.

Recommended Blood Glucose Numbers

What are the Right Numbers?

Depending on where you look, recommended blood glucose levels can vary. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) numbers differ from the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) guidelines. The ACE recommendations are more strict than the ADA's. How do you know which to follow? Ask your healthcare provider which goals are right for you. The table below compares the two sets of guidelines for blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol.

How many times a day should you check your blood glucose levels?

Checking your blood glucose levels often through out the day will help you to figure out how to keep good control. First thing in the morning before breakfast, two hours after a meal and before bed are good times to test. Other recommended times include before, during and after an exercise session, especially if it is strenuous or if you are feeling like your blood sugar may be low or high.

What is the A1C?

It's a blood test that helps you and your doctor monitor your overall glucose control.

It gives an average of the amount of glucose in your blood over a few months' time. It is usually ordered 2 to 4 times a year. If you are newly diagnosed or having trouble maintaining good day-to-day control, it may be ordered more often.

Sources:

"Checking Your Blood Glucose." American Diabetes Association. ADA. 15 Dec 2006

American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and the American College of Endocrinology, "The AACE System of Intensive Diabetes Self-Management - 2002 Update." The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists Medical Guidelines for the Management of Diabetes Mellitus. Endocrine Practice Vol. 8. 2002.

For more information visit: Optimum Diabetics

Fending off the Bad

Old man's tale claims that garlic can drive away bad spirits and even scare off the vampires . I don't know if that ever holds true but one thing I am sure of, garlic does drive something away and it's not the bad spirits or vampires but the bad bacterias, heart diseases, inflammation, type 2 diabetes complications, high-blood pressure and cancer.

Garlic has a very pungent smell but it has many benefits for our health. Not only that it's quite a stinker but it's rather full of Vitamin C and allicin which studies show can help protect cells from cancer-causing substances.

The only caveat is the longer-lasting smell it leaves in your mouth. However, with the benefits in mind, I think I'll allow myself to smell "pungently nice" once in a while...hehehehe. Booooo...