Balance and proportion are the basics of a healthy diet, which requires eating a variety of foods in moderation. People who pay attention to what they put on their plate experience manifold benefits, which include both looking and feeling better. As natural plant-based substances, herbs can also promote health. But as with medicines, they might also pose health risks and cause unwanted side effects. Talk to your doctor before using herbs as a healing therapy.
Balanced Diet
Your body needs a variety of nutrients daily, which you can glean from whole grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy and protein foods. The best way to fulfill your nutritional needs is by choosing the freshest selections whenever possible. Prepackaged foods often contain sodium, preservatives and other unhealthy additives. Whole foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, on the other hand, contain substances called phytochemicals, which may help protect your body by hindering cell-destroying free radicals.
Herbal Remedies
Herbal remedies are time-honored, health-promoting substances. Before the introduction of antibiotics, herbs were a mainstay for fighting infections. Unlike conventional medicines, herbs are versatile, and can be formulated to make teas, tinctures, tablets and medicines for external applications. Use herbs to flavor fresh foods for healthy and satisfying meals.
Immune-System Enhancement
One of the most commonly contracted illnesses is a respiratory infection, or the common cold, which strikes in the United States approximately 1 billion times yearly. Echinacea is an herb for fighting infections and treating colds and flu. Scientific evidence is mixed regarding the efficacy of echinacea against colds, however. Talk to your doctor before using herbs for healing.
Considerations
A soothing cup of herbal tea or a steaming bowl of chicken soup may speed healing, but don't wait until you're ill to fuel your body. Eat fiber-rich foods daily to help prevent heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Combine these foods with herbs, exercise and other health-promoting practices to keep your body at its best.
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