How oral health can influence your heart health

The health of your mouth may determine the health of your heart. Research shows that there is a link between oral and cardiovascular health, and that the frequency of brushing your teeth has an important role when it comes to heart health. A study found that those who practice good oral hygiene have a lower risk of heart disease than those who brush their teeth once a day. Improving gum health also lowers the risk of contracting periodontal disease.

Gum disease triggers heart disease through toxic compounds that enter through the blood stream. Once it has reached the blood stream, it can damage the lining of the blood vessels, which may cause stroke and heart attacks.

Therefore,keeping your teeth and gums healthy is important for your overall health. Brushing your teeth regularly can eliminate the bacteria that cause inflammation and gum disease.

Danie

Care About Yourself First!

Your health and well-being should be every woman’s top priority. Whether it is about using healthy food, doing a sport that makes you feel good about your body, or investing in the help that you may need at different times in your life, whether it is medical or even heart health, do not let any excuses get in your way. 

Remember, it is your life, and you only deserve the best. And do not forget; if you are happy, healthy and functioning at optimum levels, you will be much more able to help other and take care of their needs, too. That is why self-care is not selfish - it is sensible!

Ten Amazing Facts About Beetroot

I was never a beetroot fan. The only things I knew about beetroot were that occasionally it could be a tasty salad and on the negative side that when you work with it (making a salad for instance) it stains your fingers and when you spill it, it also stains carpets, table cloths, etc. which is difficult to get out.

However, beetroot is actually an amazing vegetable; here are 10 amazing facts about beetroot:

1. Beetroot, botanically known as Beta vulgaris, are native to the Mediterranean.

2. Although the leaves have been eaten since before written history, the beetroot was generally used medicinally and did not become a popular food until French chefs recognized their potential in the 1800’s.

3. Some frozen pizzas use beetroot powder to colour the tomato sauce.

4. The most common garden beetroot  is a deep ruby red in colour, but yellow, white, and even candy-striped (with red and white concentric circles) are available in specialty markets.

5. Beetroot juice can lower blood pressure.

6. Beetroot contains potassium, manganese, and folic. Therefore, it is also a liver tonic.

7. It is boron rich, which stimulates the production of sex hormones.

8. Beetroot with vinegar or lemon juice has a low GI and therefore it gives sustained energy.

9. Beetroot contains betaien, which is an important nutrient for heart health.

10. It is rich in fibre and therefore good for natural digestion.

There you are. With some interesting facts on beetroot, I am now more “beetroot-friendly.”

Daniel

Old wives’ tale?

The old wives’ tale that chicken soup is good for your health really works!

Not only is it high in protein and rich in vitamins and minerals, it ‘warms’ up the nose and mouth. This kills off viruses and increases the flow of nasal mucus – the first line of defence in clearing germs from your system.

But, most importantly, chicken soup is also very good for the heart. So, feed your hubby with lots of chicken soup! Back in 2010, I published a healthy chicken soup recipe – follow this link to access this recipe.

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