Food For Thought

Did you know?

• Did you know that salt is dehydrated seawater filled with between 82 and 84 micro-minerals essential for a healthy body?
• Did you know that traditional Chinese medicine, consisting of various dehydrated herbs, originated in ancient times?
• When one reads Genesis 1 where reference is made to the heavens (sun) and the earth (plants), seed-bearing plants and fruit-bearing trees; one realizes that every season has a specific purpose to nourish man with nutrient-dense foods to withstand the viruses and bacteria prevalent in certain times of the year. As it turns out, dehydrated fruits, edible plants, herbs, and spices originated in Biblical times to nourish man during drought or when the growing season had passed. Earth – created on purpose, with purpose.
• As early as in Roman and Egyptian times, the people of the land were subjected to hard labour and relied on nutrient-dense foods for survival. They would grow their foods during the summer months, dehydrate their surpluses and save it for the long winter months.
• Even the Voortrekkers crossing the Drakensberg Mountains to seek a new life for their families survived the long, gruelling months by dehydrating all their foods for survival – not only to stave off the hunger but to keep strong and healthy. Just think about our staple diet here in South Africa – biltong and dry wors! Their dried fruits and vegetables kept their immune systems intact to withstand the harsh outdoors during that challenging time.

Natures Pharmacy Health Benefits

Brain health:

1. Antioxidants: Dehydrated fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the brain from oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline.
2. Nutrient retention: Dehydrated fruits and vegetables retain many nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, essential for brain function.

Gut Health:

1. Fibre: Dehydrated fruits, vegetables, and edible flowers can be excellent sources of dietary fibre, which supports digestive health and can contribute to a healthy gut.
2. Prebiotics: Some dehydrated fruits and vegetables contain prebiotic fibres that can support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, helping to maintain a healthy gut

Immune System:

1. Vitamins and minerals: Dehydrated fruits, vegetables, and herbs can provide essential vitamins and minerals that are important for immune function, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and zinc.
2. Antimicrobial properties: Certain dehydrated spices and herbs, such as garlic and oregano, may possess antimicrobial properties that can support immune function.

It is important to note that the health benefits of dehydrated foods can vary depending on factors such as the specific type of food, the dehydration process used, and individual dietary needs. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Find your clean label (glass jars for a long shelf-life and no additives or preservatives added) dehydrated fruits, vegetables, edible flowers, spices, and herbs @BURST BOTANICALS and combat the Autumn and Winter blues!

References:

1. Joseph, J.A., Shukitt-Hale, B., & Casadesus, G. (2005). Reversing the deleterious effects of ageing on neuronal communication and behaviour.
2. Beneficial properties of fruit polyphenolic compounds. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 81(1), 313S-315S).
3. Rickman, J.C., Barret, D.M. & Bruhn, C.M. (2007). Nutritional comparison of fresh, frozen, and canned fruits and vegetables. Part 1.
4. Vitamins C and B and phenolic compounds. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 87(6), 930-944.)
5. Slavin, J. (2013). Fiber and prebiotics: mechanisms and health benefits.
6. Gibson, G.R., & Roberfroid, M.B. (1995). Dietary modulation of the human colonic microbiota: introducing the concept of prebiotics. The Journal of Nutrition, 125(6), 1401 – 1412)
7. Wintergerst, E.S., Maggini, S., & Homig, D.H. (2007). Immune-enhancing role of Vitamin C and Zinc and effect on clinical conditions. Annal of Nutrition and Metabolism, 50(2), 85 – 94.)
8. Ngo, S.N.T, Williams, D.B., & Head, R.J. (2000). Rosemary and cancer prevention: preclinical perspectives. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 40(4) 327-34

#sipthesurprise #vegan #plantbased #cleanlabel #forthewholefamily

Author – Elma Vertue.