The Link Between Red Meat and Hypertension
February 21st, 2010
If you have been keeping up with health reports or the diet of your health buff friends, you may notice that those who are concerned with their health try to reduce the amount of red meat they ingest. There is a leaning towards the healthier white meat, such as chicken. This is because studies have found a link between red meat and hypertension. Hypertension, in turn, has been the cause of many health-related deaths. It can lead to stroke and heart disease, either of which may result to death. The problem with hypertension is that you cannot observe tangible symptoms. If you do not have regular checkups, you may not find out that you have hypertension until it is way too late.
Why red meat is linked to hypertension
People who have been taking bigger amounts of red meat are linked to more health-related deaths than those who abstain from or at least eat only small portions of red meat. They are also most likely to develop hypertension. There are many possible reasons behind the development of hypertension. Some of these reasons are high cholesterol and high sodium intake. Unfortunately, red meat contains high cholesterol and are often flavored with salt and other seasonings containing salt. Plus, there is also such a thing as primary hypertension. This gene-related hypertension can strike a person who does not eat a lot of red meat. Red meat, however, aggravates the situation with its high cholesterol and fat content.
Fruitarianism as an alternative diet when dealing with hypertension
When you already have hypertension, you may be both scared of and tempted to eat red meat. You can try to find alternatives to such a high cholesterol diet. One of the suggestions of some is fruitarianism. Fruitarianism, as with vegetarianism’s vegetable only diet, is the practice of ingesting only fruits. Some critics of this practice, however, point out that anything excessive is wrong for the body. While it is good to eat plenty of fruits, eating nothing else but fruits can significantly stunt growth in children and can weaken the muscles of adults. Fruitarians, however, are insistent that their diet cleanses them of toxins and prevents a lot of diseases. Nutritionists, on the other hand, cannot help but be concerned about the lack in variety and the excess of sugar in the fruitarian diet.
Everyone should be vigilant about the traitorous condition called hypertension. Symptoms usually show up when well-being is already very much compromised. Some people are more likely to become hypertensive, based on their family tree. Some develop hypertension as a result of their high cholesterol and salt-rich diets. Alternative diets that can ultimately subtract red meat from the equation, such as fruitarianism, are being recommended. These diets are being praised and criticized simultaneously.
Related questions:
1. What are other alternative diets, aside from fruitarianism, that can help prevent hypertension?
2. Is it enough to reduce your red meat and salt intake to prevent hypertension?
3 Based on studies, is the link between red meat and hypertension strong enough?
Fruitarianism as a Cure Against Cancer
February 21st, 2010
With all sorts of cancer sprouting up, there is a reason to be concerned. Is there something in today’s diet that is triggering what should be slumbering or even previously non-existent cancer cells? Or, is the diet today completely changed from what is ideal? Of course, there are other factors that should be considered when looking at the causes of cancer. Some of these factors are heredity and stress. Still, studies seem to zero in on diet as a major cause of cancer. So, nutritionists are coming up with healthier diet plans that should be able to focus on repelling cancer. As with any topic, there always seem to be a controversy. In other cases, new studies cancel out older facts. So, is fruitarianism just a hyped-up healthy diet plan? Is it, on the other hand, the answer to the prayers of mankind against cancer?
Basics of fruitarianism
The first thing that you should touch on is what fruitarianism is all about. Do you really have to eat all fruits and fruits alone? Or, are fruits just the major part of the diet? Fruitarianism is actually a type of vegetarianism. With this vegetarian practice, you only eat plants that are considered not killed during the harvest. Fruits definitely fall under this category. A fruitarian diet also means that you will be eating fruits 75% of the time. Other foods that you may eat are pure, raw vegetables. Fruiatarians are against eating processed foods. If you are used to eating meat, fruitarianism can be a rather punishing practice. However, fruitarianism has many health benefits.
Fruits that are known for their anti-cancer benefits
You could say that adapting fruitarianism is getting used to an anti-cancer lifestyle. After all, it is said that processed foods and red meat are prime contributors to cancer. There are also several fruits that are considered to be anti-cancer. Blueberries’ antioxidants and anthocyanins help in neutralizing what could be contributors to cancer. The betacarotene in oranges prevent the spread of cancer. The lycopene in tomatoes prevent various sorts of cancers, from breast and lung cancers to prostate and skin cancer. Actually, if you are trying to make a list of all the fruits that can possibly be anti-cancer, you can research on fruits with antioxidants. These antioxidants are powerful anti-cancer heroes.
Eating should be an enjoyable part of living. You should not starve yourself, ending up like the rail-thin waifs on the runway. Eating should be healthy. You should find food that will provide you with anti-cancer support, such as fruits. Fruitarianism is still currently under fire. However, the benefits of fruits as anti-cancer agents are not in question. If you want to stay cancer-free, be a fruitarian and eat plenty of healthy food.
Related Questions:
1. How different is fruitarianism to other forms of vegetarianism?
2. How do processed foods contribute to cancer?
3. What is the role of antioxidants in the fight against cancer?
Fruitarianism as an Alternative to a Seafood Diet
February 21st, 2010
Some people turn towards a seafood diet when they have enough of the meat, whether of red or white, variety. However, even seafoods have both benefits and risks attached to them. The benefits are well known. You would hear about them in food ads, naturally. However, your nutritionists will also back up the information from those ads. Fish, for example, offer smaller amounts of fat especially when compared to red meat and other cholesterol-laden foods. So, you could eat more of fish with a lower possibility of gaining weight. In short, fish can be more filling. When you are satisfied, you have not yet consumed a lot of calories. Some fish, such as salmon and sardines, also contain Omega-3 fatty acids that are good for the brain. Seafoods, in general, are great sources of protein. They usually contain small amounts of cholesterol and help prevent heart attacks and stroke.
Cons of a seafood diet
Seafoods, however, are not always low in fat. Take for example crab meat. It can contain very high cholesterol and fat content. There is also the matter of safety. You have to know exactly how to clean your seafood staple to make sure that it is free of all unappetizing smells and of any dangerous component. Some fish contain high levels of mercury that cannot be washed off. Pregnant women especially are warned against such fish. Seafoods are also prone to contamination brought about by pollutants in the water. So, there is some risk to just picking up any fish, especially if you actually commit yourself to a seafood diet instead of just eating seafoods from time to time.
Pros of fruitarianism
Fruitarianism is an alternative to a seafood diet. Though criticized for focusing too much on fruits, which could completely remove protein from the diet and could provide a lot of sugars, there are a lot of benefits provided by fruitarianism. According to a study, people who have decided to turn to fruitarianism experienced fewer health concerns. There was also a decrease in serious conditions, such as hypertension. When eating fruits, you will not use oils unless you wish to cook or bake the fruits with other ingredients. Taken purely, fruits are rich in vitamins and minerals and low in fat. You get the optimum amount of energy as plants, and therefore fruits, are at the bottom of the food pyramid. Plants do not have to consume organisms to survive. Instead, plants get their energy directly from the sun.
A seafood diet, how healthy it may sound, has its own weaknesses. Are you willing to take on the benefits offered by the protein and the Omega-3 fatty acids if there is a risk of mercury? Not all seafoods are dangerous though, but some seafoods are very fatty. Of course, all kinds of food have their benefits and risks. You may think of turning to fruitarianism but even this pure, healthy diet style is subject to health risks. However, compared to a seafood-based diet, fruitarianism offers more health benefits in the long run.
Related Questions:
1. What are the pros and cons of a pure seafood diet?
2. What are the pros and cons of being purely fruitarian?
3. How do you ensure your seafood meal is perfectly safe?
Why a Fruitarian Diet is Better than a Meat-based Diet
February 16th, 2010
Have you thought of going fruitarian? Fruitarians are people who ingest only unprocessed plants that are not mutilated. Not mutilated here refers to the plant source not having killed for the sake of the harvest. Well, these raw foods dominate the diet of a fruitarian at a 75% or higher portion. Some stick to this raw fruit and vegetable diet. A fruitarian, by the way, is a type of vegetarian. He or she stays away from meat products as much as he or she can. They do shun processed foods because of the possibility of animal parts being included in the unlisted ingredients. It could be tough going vegetarian in a society filled with meat-loving citizens. There is also the fact that many nutritionists are not sold out on the fruitarian diet, deeming it potentially dangerous to the overall health if done long term. However, what many don’t know is that this diet is quite beneficial.
Pros of fruitarian diet
With a fruitarian diet, you will feel cleansed and light. Fruits are rich in vitamins and minerals, nourishment that you usually try to find in manmade multivitamins. With such a diet, you also avoid the dangerous fats that have been developing all sorts of obesity and cholesterol-related diseases. A fruitarian diet also provides you with energy straight from the plant source. There is no need to capture the energy via a middleman.
Cons of meat-based diets
Meat-based diets are linked to diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and cancer. Such a diet is also linked to conditions such as obesity and to sudden health attacks, such as strokes and heart attacks. Rich in saturated fat, meat in big portions can clog your arteries with fat. A meat-based diet can make a person prone to several diseases that can potentially lead to an early death.
Both the fruitarian diet and the meat-based diet are topics worthy of discussion. When it comes to taking in enough natural vitamins and minerals and preventing many diseases, the fruitarian diet scores big points. Because you don’t consume meat in a fruitarian diet, you decrease the risks of getting serious diseases.
Related Questions:
1. What are the pros of a fruitarian diet?
2. What are the cons of adding meat to your diet?
3. What is the best way of living and eating healthy?
Dangers of a Seafood-rich Diet
February 16th, 2010
Seafood is a great alternative to meat, especially the red type. You get to eat protein-rich but not fatty foods such as fish. Fish is a great source of Omega 3 fatty acids. These fatty acids, instead of causing illnesses, actually help you lower your cholesterol. Omega 3 fatty acids also prevent heart diseases. Eating seafoods can, therefore, offer a lot of health benefits. However, not everything is perfect healthwise. It is never good to have imbalance in your diet. This means that eating too much seafoods can also have negative effects on your body.
Presence of mercury especially in commercial fisheries
Mercury is another reason for cutting back on your seafood diet. Though you can definitely eat plenty of fish, try to limit on those with high levels of mercury. Yes, some fish may contain high levels of mercury. In fact, most fish and shellfish contain some mercury. This mercury could be naturally occuring or could have been induced by commercial fishing, or both. Either way, mercury poses some health risks to those who consume it.
Health risks posed by eating mercury-laden seafood dishes
There are certain types of fish, such as sardines and shark, which contain high levels of mercury. Not everybody is warned against eating too much of those fish, however. Some studies have even shown that mercury is not as dangerous to the human body as first reported. Still, pregnant, lactating, and fertile women are discouraged from taking huge amounts of mercury-laden seafood dishes. The unborn child’s development and the breastfed baby’s health can be harmed by the mercury. Mercury also stays in the system for long, especially if huge amounts were ingested. So, women who could get pregnant should shy away from ingesting too much seafood. The mercury could still be in their system when they do become pregnant. As for the others, mercury may later play an active role in the development of cancer.
While a seafood diet is rich in flavor and health benefits, too much of this good thing is also dangerous. If mercury-laden seafood dishes are involved in the diet, then the consumer should be extra careful.
Related Questions:
1. Are grown men completely safe from mercury-laden seafood dishes?
2. What could be a safe alternative to a purely seafood diet?
3. What can mercury do to harm the body?
Health Risks Posed by a Red Meat-rich Diet
February 16th, 2010
Red meat has continually been under fire for posing health risks to its consumers. Known for its heavy fat content and unhealthy cholesterol, red meat is surely a diet hazard. Have you ever wondered why all sorts of illnesses seem to be popping up here and there today? This is because people are becoming more dependent on red meat and processed foods for nourishment and satisfaction. There was a time when people ate more plant foods, or plants that get their energy direct from the sun. These foods are healthier and safe. A shift to a red meat-rich diet has introduced higher levels of fat into the body. A body saturated with fats is more prone to heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and even hormonal imbalance.
Red meat and risks of getting heart disease and diabetes
The link between red meat and hypertension has been discovered. When the arteries have been clogged with fats, it gets difficult for the heart to pump blood. This causes high blood pressure or hypertension. If you are not taking the steps to improve your health or are not taking any medication, your hypertension can develop into heart disease. You may even suffer a stroke. With heart disease, you could find yourself with more food restrictions. Fatty foods, as well as sugary ones, can also cause Type 2 diabetes. With diabetes, your diet will be further restricted. So it is much better to consume red meat in smaller amounts than to live with a serious disease and a much stricter diet.
Red meat and cancer and hormonal imbalance
Cancer is also another effect of too much red meat in the diet. Red meat and processed foods are said to contain plenty of carcinogens. Studies have proven that red meat has a hand in increasing the incidence of cancerous tumors. It seems that red meat is wreaking havoc on your body. Red meat is also said to cause hormonal imbalance. Anyway, both cancer and hormonal imbalance are about detrimental changes in the body’s chemistry.
Eating red meat from time to time may not be that harmful. You could use healthier cooking techniques, such as steaming and roasting. However, saturating your diet with red meat can cause all sorts of serious diseases.
Related Questions:
1. What are other diseases that can develop through a red meat-rich diet?
2. What is it with red meat that makes it a health hazard?
3. What is the similarity between cancer and hormonal imbalance?
Guide to Fruitarian Diet: Fruits That Make Your Skin Glow
February 3rd, 2010
A glowing skin is a sign of good health, both on the outside and the inside. A healthy skin can make you look younger, fresh, and beautiful. You don’t really need to buy expensive soaps, creams, and lotions for that youthful glow. Going to the dermatologist regularly is also unnecessary. All you need to do is to eat a lot of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals that could help you get a clearer skin. Read on to know some of the fruits that you have to include in your diet if you want to get that smooth skin many will envy.
Oranges and lemons
Orange and lemons are not just juicy-licious fruits. They are also rich in Vitamin C, which is vital in helping your skin recover from the damage caused by pollutants and too much sun exposure. The vitamins in oranges and lemons also make your skin resistant to further skin damage and skin deterioration. You have to consume fresh orange and lemon juice often. Fresh orange and lemon have high levels of Vitamin C content. According to studies, the nutritional value of Vitamin C in citrus fruits degrade over time. This is why it is better to have fresh fruits.
Limes and grapefruit
Limes and grapefruit are also rich in Vitamin C. As mentioned earlier, Vitamin C helps reinvigorate the skin to give it a healthy glow. In particular, grapefruit is also a good source of antioxidants, which help fight off aging. It is best to have them fresh to make the most out of their nutritional value.
Other important vitamins that could help give your skin a youthful glow are Vitamins E and A. Vitamin E is present in green leafy vegetables, while Vitamin A is found in carotene-rich food such as carrots and squash. Your body also needs minerals such as zinc and selenium to help maintain its elasticity, while Omega-3 fatty acids keep the moisture locked in the skin. Another most important thing you should not forget is to drink plenty of water everyday. If you fail to drink enough water, your skin would turn flaky. Or, it would turn oily because the body will secrete oil to compensate for the lack of moisture in your skin.
Related questions:
1. Where can I get Omega-3 fatty acids?
2. I am acidic. Are Vitamin C-rich fruits for me?
3. What are some other fruits rich in Vitamin C and E?
Pros and Cons of Fruitarianism
January 28th, 2010
Have you been planning to switch to fruitarianism? This article will show you the benefits and downsides of a fruitarian diet.
Fruitarianism has emerged as a kind of vegetarianism wherein the bulk of a person’s diet are composed of fruits and certain kinds of vegetables. It is safe to say therefore that fruitarianism is a kind of vegetarianism. Typically, a fruitarian’s diet will consist of fruits mainly; however, nuts and grains may be incorporated into the diet as well. A fruitarian diet is also characterized by its being a raw food diet. Fruitarians steer clear from processed or cooked foods as much as possible and consume only those which are raw and fresh. It is the belief of fruitarians that animals or plants should not be killed simply to sustain the life and good health of human beings.
Fruitarian diet guide– the main benefits
There are various benefits of a fruitarian diet. First of all, the dietary fiber and nutrients present in the fruits have the ability to cleanse the body of harmful toxins. This is also beneficial for the digestive system, since constipation and other digestion problems are often the result of a diet rich in meat and deficient in fiber and water content. There for fruits have a therapeutic benefit, especially for those who have problems elimination toxins from their systems.
A diet full of processed fares, starch, and sodium can weigh the body down and rob it of the needed energy. Also, it can lead to high blood, cholesterol, and heart problems. If you’re someone who wants to reduce cholesterol levels in the body or if you want to be able to lose weight and keep it permanently, you can always switch to a fruitarian diet.
Disadvantages of becoming a fruitarian
Nonetheless, not everyone believes an all-fruit diet is sufficient for optimum health. If you are trying to gain weight, this can be very difficult to do with an all-fruit diet. In fact some people end up getting so underweight to the point of becoming anorexic. When you intend to become a fruitarian you have to be prepared to spend more on your monthly food budget. Fresh fruits can be expensive and since it is impossible for some people to live on fruits alone, it is also important set a budget for grains, nuts, and other vegetables.
Becoming a fruitarian certainly has benefits, but it is important to consider the cons as well so as to make an informed decision in the end.
Related questions:
1. How did fruitarianism originate and who were its proponents?
2. Is a fruitarian diet recommended by healthcare professionals?
3. Do you need to eat strictly fruits alone in order to be called a fruitarian?
Why Switch to a Fruits Diet
January 28th, 2010
Do you want to know the many benefits of a fruits diet? Read this article to find out why fruits are perfect for your health.
There are many reasons why switching to an all-fruits diet may be healthier for you. The health value of a diet rich in fruits can never be discounted. In fact, eating fruits and vegetables are known to have a number of health benefits, including lowered blood pressure and lowered risk for heart disease and certain cancers. Since the consumption of fruits does not involve the killing of animals or the harming of plants, this fruit diet is more ideal for health-conscious individuals, environmentalists, and animal rights activists.
Benefits of a fruitarian diet
The benefits of a fruitarian diet are wide and diverse. Apart from an abundance of vitamins and minerals, fruits also contain flavonoids, phenols, carotenoids, and dietary fiber. An individual who consumes sufficient servings of fruits are less likely to suffer from Vitamin A and Vitamin C deficiencies. Since fruits are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals, they can prevent malnutrition, vitamin deficiencies, control hunger and blood sugar levels, and are good choices for people trying to lose weight.
According to people who subsist on fruits and grains alone, they feel better physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, than when consuming a diet of meat, dairy, and vegetables. Since fruits are full of dietary fiber, they are also better for the digestive system. Those who consume sufficient amounts of fruits daily do not suffer from insomnia, indigestion, constipation, depression, and hunger.
Fruitarian diet list
An abundance of fruits should be introduced into the diet, although grains, nuts, and other natural additives for flavoring are welcome as well. Citrus fruits are a must since they contain essential vitamins, including Vitamin C. Among the most well-known citrus fruits are oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and limes. Other popular and nutritious fruits include avocados, melons, mangoes, papayas, and bananas, among others. As for nuts, you can find a range of nut varieties including walnuts, sunflower seeds, and flaxseeds.
For added nutrients, fruitarians also consume textured vegetable protein, which often comes in shredded form. Also beans are an excellent source of protein so most individuals who are on the fruit diet consume them regularly as well. Shakes and smoothies are excellent for breakfast and as refreshment any time of the day.
A fruits diet may not sound too appealing to those who have been used to a meat-based diet, but with the various health benefits of a fruit-based lifestyle, it is easy to see why many people have already made the switch.
Related questions:
1. Is an all-fruit diet ideal for people with certain health deficiencies?
2. Do fruits have specific healing qualities?
3. Where will I be able to get affordable, fresh fruits all year round?
Living on a Fruitarian Diet
January 28th, 2010
Do you want to know more about the fruitarian diet? This article will show you the basics of becoming a fruitarian.
A fruitarian diet is a kind of vegetarian diet wherein only fruits are consumed by an individual. There are many types of vegetarian diets, from ovo-lacto vegetarian diet to lacto-vegetarian. However, a fruitarian diet follows a stricter diet plan. When you’re a fruitarian, you will only eat the types of food which do not kill the plant from where it is harvested. Since plants or trees naturally produce fruit, they don’t die or wither as a result of harvesting. On the other hand, if root crops or leafy plants are harvested, these will lead to the death of the organism. Such is the case with carrots and other root crops and leafy veggies such as lettuces and cabbage.
Becoming a fruitarian
Although many people may find it difficult just thinking about switching to an all-fruit diet, some people have already made their own transition and are now living solely on fruits, nuts, and other natural additives. One of the biggest advantages in adopting a fruitarian diet is the abundance of healthy, fiber-rich fruits all year-round. There is a wide variety of fruits, from citrus to berries, and from melons to tropical fares. Also, you can mix in a variety of nuts, grains, and wheat products to make your dishes fuller and more satisfying.
Fruits diet plan
If you think making a fruit diet plan is difficult, think again. Your choices are not limited to fruits alone, so there is no need to worry about having boring, tasteless meals. In fact, you can also add nuts, grains such as beans and lentils, and tomatoes as well. Tomatoes are considered as fruits so you can always add some zesty tomato sauce into your baked beans for lunch or dinner.
For breakfast, you can have a fruit salad mixed in with nuts. Smoothies are also excellent day-starters, and since you are following a fruit-based diet, you can have all the smoothies you want. Tortilla sandwiches and pita bread sandwiches make excellent lunch or dinner choices, and for filling you can use fruit fillings such as tomatoes, avocadoes, or tasty dressings. Fruit drinks are in abundance as well, providing your body with its needed nourishment and refreshment. You can have fresh citrus drinks, smoothies, or shakes anytime of day.
If you want to keep an ideal weight and don’t want to harm animals and plant organisms in order to survive, a diet based on fruits is surely the right vegetarian choice for you.
Related questions:
1. How does a fruitarian diet differ from a strict vegetarian diet?
2. Can fruits make me healthy and give me all the nutrients my body needs?
3. How do I preserve fruits so I do not have to keep storing my fridge with fresh items all the time?