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Like other anti-oxidants, plant flavonoids (or bioflavonoids) are important protectors against the cellular damage and associated degenerative diseases caused by free radicals. Flavonoids are also the compounds which give fruits and vegetables their colour, and the juice and skin of the bilberry, like that of cranberries and elderberries, is particularly rich in a type known as anthocyanidins, which impart their distinctive blue pigment.

Recently hailed by nutritionists as a “superfood”, European bilberries are close European relations of the American blueberry and it is the distinctive blue anthocyanoside pigment which is held responsible for its beneficial effects.

The body’s connective tissue, or collagen, depends heavily on this type of flavonoid, which is also particularly important in improving blood circulation, strengthening capillary walls, and in facilitating the action of vitamin C throughout the body.

The pigment is also believed to act as an anti-bacterial agent, which is particularly effective in countering intestinal problems, but it is from its effect on the circulation that most of the benefits of bilberries are derived.

Most famously, bilberries in the form of jam were used by British Royal Air Force pilots during the Second World War as a means of improving night vision. And this effect was generally accepted during the 1960s and 1970s. More modern research, however, is inclined to reject the evidence as inconclusive, and does not accept the claims of nutritional therapists that bilberry may also help alleviate everyday shortsightedness or myopia. It has been suggested, however, that anthocyanasides may help with the production of essential enzymes within the eye, which by increasing the output of energy may improve the general functioning of the organ.

Bilberry’s beneficial effects on the capillaries are also held to improve the circulation of the blood within the eyes. The central area of the eye’s retina, the macula, is made up of the light sensitive cells, the health of which is essential to good vision. Behind these cells is a dense mass of tiny capillaries which supply them with oxygenated blood and essential nutrients. The maintenance of the strength of these capillary walls is essential, and serious problems with vision may arise if any weakening through disease or oxidative degeneration leads to any leakage of blood into the retina itself.

Diabetics are known to be particularly prone to these kind of eye problems; and as well as possibly helping prevent the diabetic retinopathy which may follow on this capillary damage within the eyes, bilberries are also credited with lowering the high blood sugar which may have contributed to the problem in the first place. Bilberries’ anti-oxidant effect within the eyes is also a factor in combatting cataracts and age related macular degeneration (AMD), a major cause of blindness in older adults.

Bilberry supplements are readily available and often found in combination with lutein and zeaxanthin, anti-oxidant carotenoids which are also thought to have powerful beneficial effects within the eyes, and particularly in combatting the progressive loss of vision caused by AMD.

Needless to say opinions are strongly divided as to the effectiveness of these preparations. The general opinion of the medical and opthalmic professions may be summarised as “case not proven”, at best, but nutritional therapists and alternative practitioners swear by them. Of course the attitude of the opthalmic profession is not surprising given its record of hostility to the work of such as Dr. Bates in seeking alternatives to artificial methods of correction (ie spectacles), and in its persistent rejection of the compelling evidence in favour of more natural methods.

And indeed there is an almost reflex tendency in orthodox medicine which seems determined to meet anything which sits outside the conventional “wisdom” with scepticism if not outright hostility. Of course we should welcome rigorous scientific enquiry and an insistence on the proper testing of evidence as a safeguard against the more extravagant claims of those interested only in selling products of dubious value. But anecdotal evidence as well as direct personal experience suggests that modern science doesn’t always get it right.

And when it comes to a food like bilberries there’s really no barrier to setting personal experience against the abstract research. We’re talking about an entirely natural food stuff, with a long history of human use, which can be obtained very inexpensively, and which can do no harm in any quantities conceivably likely to be ingested. If the claims made for bilberries as a super food and anti-oxidant are even partly true the question must be: why wouldn’t you try it?

So although I normally I hate puns, this was one I couldn’t resist. In the case of adding bilberries to your diet, the best approach may be, quite literally, to try it and see.

For many women, it’s a period that is associated with more than just physical discomfort. The emotional stress linked with pre-menstrual syndrome has the potential to cause disruptions in any woman’s life. Fortunately, there is a lot that can be done to take control. A vast majority of the symptoms of PMS, and even menopause can be minimized, with some dietary measures.

DIET TO COMBAT PMS

Classically, a woman experiences one or more of the following, in the week preceding menstruation – anxiety, tension, headaches, depression, breast tenderness, water retention, bloating, low energy and irritability.

Vitamin B6 has been shown in many studies to help many pre menstrual sufferers. Lately, researchers have discovered that Vitamin B6 combined with zinc is even more effective. (The latter helps convert B6 to its active form in the body).

Cereals made from wheat and bran, beans, lentils are rich in Vitamin B6.

Magnesium is particularly effective in reducing the syptoms of breast tenderness and swelling. More recently, scientists have found that GLA or gamma-linoleic acid; found in evening primrose oils has a 60 % success rate. (Both magnesium and GLA have several other beneficial effects in the body.) They are essential for all of us, but even more so for those with PMS.

On average, within 3-5 months on a diet or supplement program high in Vitamin B6, zinc and magnesium, a significant improvement can be achieved.

In some cases of PMS, hormonal changes disturb blood sugar control and bring on sugar (and stimulant) urges, associated with tiredness and irritation. In such cases, a low sugar, no stimulant diet can make a remarkable difference. Avoid sodas, concentrated juices, sauces and high amounts of caffeine. In a small percentage of women, PMS indicates a pronounced hormonal imbalance, which responds neither to diet, nor supplements. Such an imbalance is usually due to estrogen dominance and a relative lack of the hormone progesterone. This condition can be bought about due to prolonged use of the birth control pill. It needs testing and treatment by a qualified nutrition consultant or doctor.

WINNING THE WAR AGAINST MENOPAUSE.

The natural transition from the childbearing phase of life for every woman, menopause often occurs between the ages of 45 to 50 (sometimes earlier). It may arrive without many symptoms, but is often accompanied by a host of them such as hot flashes, night sweats, and tiredness and joint pains.

CALCIUM – THE SKELETON IN YOUR CUPBOARD.

Calcium assumes far greater importance during these years. In fact, a combination of calcium and magnesium in a ‘bone formula’ tablet (in addition to vitamin D) is often more effective than standard calcium tablets. These work best when eaten with high protein foods (meat, eggs, beans) and prior to bedtime, since calcium helps promote sleep. Ideally, younger women should start taking calcium supplements (and not wait till menopause) to build up the calcium ‘stockpiles’ in the bones. Start consuming high calcium foods such as non-fat skimmed milk, dairy products and beans.

FOLATE – THE FINAL FIGHTER.

Vitamin B9 or folic acid (40-60 mg) is very beneficial. Oranges , spinach, leafy green vegetables, beans, and walnuts are rich sources of folic acid.

The most common cause of liver disease is excess alcohol. Aside from consuming alcohol, learn which other factors – such as obesity and malnutrition – can play a role in developing this potentially life-threatening liver disease. Accumulated toxins in the body place a constant drag on the immune system, setting the stage for auto immune diseases and cancer. Once the liver is damage, it’s very difficult to maintain healthy defense system to combat diseases.

Milk Thistle

Milk Thistle is an example of a potent standardized herb that contains a minimum of 80% silymarin, the active nutrient that gives milk thistle its great effectiveness for the treatment of liver hepatitis or liver disease cirrhosis. Milk Thistle (Silybum maianum) seeds are approved as a natural treatment for damaged liver, inflammatory liver pain conditions and liver diseases such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, and fatty liver disease caused by alcohol and other toxins.

Furthermore, according the recent clinical research in Germany, the seeds of milk thistle help avoid liver disease and make an excellent tonic for the liver and gall bladder. Physicians have prescribed milk thistle, one of the best herbs for liver disease, for hepatitis treatment to keep down inflammation, for cirrhosis treatment to soften the liver, for liver cancer to aid in liver detoxification, and for many dysfunctions of the gall bladder system.

Dandelion

Dandelion has also been  used to treat poor digestion, water retention, and diseases of the liver such as alcohol hepatitis. Many herbalists view the dandelion as an effective treatment for liver disease, even in extreme cases such as liver disease cirrhosis. It protects against free radical damage because it is a strong liver antioxidant, reduces inflammation and protects liver from alcohol liver disease, liver cancer pain, and a number of toxic compounds. It’s best herbal remedy and natural medicine for upset liver, liver pain relief and liver disorder against alcoholic and non-alcoholic liver disease.

Antioxidants

Studies have led the way in understanding how various antioxidants have the potential to prevent or treat the damage associated with free radical induced oxidative stress. Antioxidants not only help the liver carry out its cleansing processes, but they also serve to protect the liver from excessive free radical damage.

The high levels of antioxidants in a high quality green food are the front line of defence in the war on destructive free radicals that will destroy cells ability to repair, renew, and rejuvenate.

Exercise

Exercise stimulates blood circulation and when blood circulates better, all organs function better. Exercise keeps your body and liver strong and better able to defend itself against viruses, disease, and pollutants. Not only does exercise reduce the amount of blood sugar, but it also increases blood circulation to all parts of the body, including the brain.

Stretching and deep breathing exercises early in the morning provide the most benefit for anyone with sluggish liver. Early morning exercises help to bring the blood out of the liver into the circulating system. The benefits of a regular exercise routine are proven and plentiful, including lowering the risk of heart disease, increasing energy levels, lowering both high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and combating depression.

Conclusion

Maintaining liver health is integral to healthy living. It is essential for body maintenance and regeneration. Liver health is the result of a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and supplementing with at least the antioxidant nutrients to decrease the toxic burden the liver has to deal with each day. Since the liver is the chief detoxification organ in the body, maintaining liver health is very important for everyone. Maintaining liver health is integral to healthy living. It is essential for body maintenance and regeneration. Find out more about Antioxidants and Liver cleansing processes.