Going to the doctor can often result in coming home with a list of pills, creams, and powders to treat whatever it is that you’re suffering from. However, diet plays a big role in all aspects of our health, and more and more doctors are looking to the benefits of certain foods to help in treating an assortment of illnesses.
As a hobby, a career, a necessity - no matter what, food is an important part of daily life. What many people don’t realise about the food on their plates is all the medicinal properties that they can carry. Beyond the basic nutrients that keep us going throughout the day, many foods in fact possess amazing medicinal benefits that are handy to know if you’re in need of a home cure. This guide features a list of common household foods that doctors recommend to combat a surprising array of ailments!
1. Ginger
It should come as no surprise that ginger is hailed as a wonder plant in many medicinal cultures, given its wide array of health benefits. A common cure for a sore throat sees a heap of ginger added to hot water with honey and turmeric. It’s also been shown to heavily reduce pain from menstrual cramps and is available in handy capsule form as an alternative to ibuprofen. Furthermore, ginger is an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticarcinogen - meaning that no matter what, a healthy dose of ginger is bound to do you good!
2. Fermented foods
When it comes to fermented foods, there are many options to choose from on the menu. This includes yoghurt, pickles, miso, kimchi, kefir, and tempeh. The process of fermentation produces living bacteria that can greatly aid digestive health. Eating fermented foods can improve overall gastrointestinal function and relieve the symptoms of IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). Fermented foods also help to alleviate diarrhoea and contribute to a faster rate of fat burning!
3. Turmeric
Turmeric is another common spice that originates from the southwest region of India and has an array of health benefits, making it a staple of herbal medicine. Its key component, curcumin fights inflammation and bacterial infection. Its medicinal uses include fighting infection, restoring liver function, providing pain relief, and promoting weight loss. Some doctors even recommend it as an aid in relieving the symptoms of arthritis!
4. Green tea
According to some research trials, green tea has been shown to boost metabolism and help contribute to weight loss. Many people enjoy it alongside breakfast as an energy-boosting way to start the day, given its natural caffeine. The catechins in green tea also have benefits for oral health, leading some people to use it to combat bad breath.
5. Garlic
Garlic has a long history of being used medicinally, with its prescription for a wide array of ailments dating back to the ancient world. One major usage is in the treatment of gastrointestinal discomfort, as its anti-bacterial properties help to improve infections caused by Campylobacter bacterium - one of the most common causes of intestinal infection. Garlic has also been linked to lower levels of blood pressure and cholestorol, as well as an overall improvement in cardiovascular health.
6. Cacao
Nowadays, cacao is most commonly associated with chocolate bars and hot chocolate - but it has a rich history as both a currency and a medicinal ingredient. In pre-colonial South America, the cacao plant was so revered that it was used as a currency by the Mayan civilisation. This hardly comes as a surprise, when the plant is linked to the protection of both the heart and brain. Cacao is known to help improve cognitive function, boost energy, and improve overall mood, thanks to its phytochemical components such as procyanidins, flavonols and flavonoids. Cacao is often recommended in the treatment of anxiety, allergy, and has even shown promising results when it comes to the prevention of hemorrhagic stroke.
7. Peppermint
Peppermint is a staple flavour of many sweets, chocolates, and chewing gums - as well as being most people’s go-to choice for toothpaste. But beyond its fresh flavour, peppermint is known to offer a variety of health benefits, most notably in its treatment of abdominal discomfort and IBS. As a medicine, mint can be consumed as an oil, tea, or even just by chewing the leaves straight from the plant!
8. Chia seeds
In recent years, chia seeds have become a staple food for health-conscious eaters, and with good reason, too! Chia seeds are highly concentrated in nutrients and are recommended by nutritionists for their ability to help with lowering cholesterol and improving oval cardiovascular health. This is because chia seeds contain an antioxidant named quercetin and tonnes of fibre, which are shown to contribute to lower blood pressure and contribute to a stronger heart.
Never forget that food can make for more than just a delicious meal - so next time you’re feeling under the weather, try checking the fridge for one of these natural cures for an easy health boost!
