Probiotics
“Probiotic,” literally meaning “for life,” is a term used to describe the friendly bacteria and fungi that inhabit both the large and small intestines. There are over 400 different species of micro-flora that live in the gut, and two very important ones include acidophilus and bifidus. Acidophilus plays a major role in the prevention of disease.  It also aids in the production of vitamins; an increase in the absorption of calcium; normalization of cholesterol levels in the blood; and production of digestive enzymes. Bifidus lowers the pH of the intestines, manufactures specific B vitamins, ensures regular bowel movements, and can help stop gas while promoting proper immune function. Unfortunately, they are easily destroyed by antibiotics, alcohol, drugs and a poor diet.  Therefore, probiotic supplementation is highly recommended.

Enzymes
Enzymes are considered the “sparks of life.” These energized protein molecules regulate and govern all living cells in plants and animals, and are responsible for providing the energy for all biochemical reactions that occur in nature. Enzymes cannot be made from synthetic, non-plant sources. There are three major enzymatic classifications: metabolic, digestive and those obtained from food. Metabolic and digestive enzymes are produced in the body, but food enzymes are not—they only come from food. Processing or cooking food above 112 degrees destroys food enzymes. These vital helpers predigest our food and aid greatly in the absorption of nutrients. Without them, either from food or supplementation, the natural process of full digestion is lost, which puts an undue strain on the digestive system. Taking enzyme supplements helps ensure proper digestion and nutrient absorption.

Flaxseed Oil
Flaxseed oil is an excellent source for essential fatty acids, which are the basic building blocks of fats. They are categorized as Omega-3 and Omega-6 and are required for proper functioning of nerve cells and cell membrane walls. All cells are enveloped by a membrane composed mostly of essential fatty acid compounds. Without a healthy membrane, cells lose vital nutrients, electrolytes and their ability to hold water. They also lose their ability to communicate efficiently with other cells and respond appropriately to regulating hormones. Research has shown that diets high in omega-3 fatty acids help prevent heart attacks, lower blood pressure, reduce allergies and inflammation, offer anti-cancer properties, and may help combat a host of degenerative diseases. An easy way to get an abundance of these important Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids is to consume cold-pressed, organic flax oil every day.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Undistilled, organic and naturally fermented apple cider vinegar has been referred to as one of nature’s most perfect foods because it offers numerous health benefits. Apples are a rich source of potassium, and the main function of potassium is to keep the tissues soft and pliable, and to help prevent heart attacks and strokes. With potassium, which is the master mineral, toxic poisons are literally placed “in solution” so they can be flushed out of the body. Apple cider vinegar improves digestion, relieves chronic fatigue, zaps sore throats, helps normalize weight, helps lower blood pressure and can ease arthritis by flushing toxic crystals from joints. Plus, it’s a natural antibiotic and antiseptic that fights germs, bacteria, mold and viruses. And that’s just the beginning!  Just two teaspoons a day helps keep the doctor away.

Antioxidants
Antioxidants devour free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that damage cells, and if left unchecked, can cause a suppressed immune system and lead to degenerative disease. They are a primary cause of sagging skin and wrinkles.  Free radicals are created when cells are under attack from various toxins, and are caused by tobacco smoke, pollution, stress, and hydrogenated or rancid oils, among other things. Antioxidants, found in fresh fruits and vegetables, and especially dark green vegetables, counter the effects of free radicals. There are also animal-based antioxidants such as co-Q10, mineral-based antioxidants such as selenium, and herbs with antioxidant properties such as bilberry, ginkgo and green tea.  Numerous manufacturers produce antioxidant supplements, which can found online and at natural food stores.

Garlic
Garlic has been used since biblical times and has an amazing array of healing properties. It contains an amino acid derivative that has an antibiotic effect. Another component of garlic dilates blood vessel walls. And garlic also contains many sulfur compounds that promote healing. Garlic is known to increase circulation; remove abdominal obstructions; eliminate parasites, yeast, worms and bad bacteria; relieve the stinging of insect bites, nettles, poison ivy and oak; clear ear infections; detoxify the body; enhance immune system function; lower blood pressure, and help promote healing of virtually all diseases.  Garlic can be eaten raw, or taken as an encapsulated supplement. Cooked garlic however does not retain the properties of raw and supplemental garlic. You can find garlic supplements online and at natural food stores.