After the New Year the focus seems to be on cleansing. While cleansing is very important for health, especially at the cellular level, winter is the time to direct your efforts to cleansing the kidneys and bladder. Over 19 million people have some form of kidney disease and it is prevalent in people with diabetes.
Some of the foods that promote kidney health include citrus fruit, cranberries, pomegranate, onion, beans, barley, poultry, sunflower seeds and pecans (Visit Leaf Lady for a complete list).
A simple, easy to prepare kidney cleanse is to drink 2 ounces of unsweetened, pure, organic cranberry juice each morning before breakfast. Although the juice will be tart, it supplies special enzymes and fights infection.
During the winter months remember that vitamin A is very important to health and specifically for the lungs. Historically, using vitamin A in high doses over a short time can help you recover from pneumonia. It's a good idea to add this fat-soluble vitamin to your daily regimen. Look for a product that includes both fish oil and beta-carotene – at about 25,000 IU.
Don' t forget vitamin D. Current research shows an epidemic of deficient vitamin D levels and the connection to many health problems. You can get your health provider to order a 25 OH Test to check vitamin D levels. If you don't get enough sun daily or you are a person of color then you should consider taking 6000 IU daily during low light months of the year. Make sure you also include vitamin D3.
And last but not least, make sure you stay adequately hydrated. During winter the air is dry, especially indoors. You' re more likely to get a cold or flu if you aren't drinking enough water. Most well informed health providers encourage you to drink 8 – 8 ounce glasses (1.9 liters) of water each day. If you are exercising or trying to lose weight you'll need to consume more water. There's more about water at Liquids for Life.
Let’s hope these tips get you off to a good start on your road to health...
Gayle Eversole, DHom, PhD, MH, NP, ND, is a natural health educator and advocate. Celebrating 50+ years blending science and the natural healing arts. Sign up for her herbalYoda newsletter.
This article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not take the place of a consultation with a qualified health care professional. Always consult a physician or other qualified health care professional before taking any herbs or applying any therapies. The reader must assume full responsibility for verifying any information or therapies with a qualified physician or health care professional.
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