REFLECTION SERIES

Myocardial Infarction is the irreversible death (necrosis) of the heart muscles caused by prolonged lack of oxygen supply to the heart (Ischemia).   This ischemia is usually caused by reduced blood flow in the heart blood vessels (Coronary artery) due to atherosclerosis or blocking of an artery by a blot clot or both. Approximately 1.5 million cases of myocardial infarction occur annually in the United States of America (Zafari, 2018). Patients with myocardial infarction experience severe chest pain that occurs suddenly and continues despite rest and medication. Other symptoms include fatigue, palpitation, shortness of breath, anxiety, malaise, nausea and vomiting. Risk factors include hypertension, diabetes, smoking, alcoholism, obesity, and lack of exercise Like all medical conditions, diet plays an important role in either preventing or encouraging it. Foods such as meat, saturated fat, sausages, ham, margarine, butter, fried foods, milk, alcoholic beverages, white sugar and

Angina pectoris is a condition of the heart which manifests itself through an intense, oppressive pain in the left side of the chest and radiates down the left arm. It usually occurs after some physical activity, intense emotions or a stressful situation. It is a severe chest pain caused by ischemia of the heart muscle (lack of blood supply hence oxygen supply to the heart), obstruction or spasm of the coronary arteries (the heart's blood vessels) and atherosclerosis (narrowing and hardening of the coronary arteries). Angina is reversible and usually does not leave any permanent heart damage. The diet we choose has a great influence on the condition and function of the heart’s blood vessels (coronary arteries). A diet that is poor in plant-based foods and rich in saturated fats and high salt, in addition to tobacco and lack of exercise puts a person at risk of atherosclerosis which causes angina.  To improve the condition of the heart, you must increase intake of grapes, walnu

Depression is a mood disorder characterized by a feeling of sadness, pessimism, hopelessness, discouragement, dejection (self-dislike) or despair. Depressed individuals often exhibit physical symptoms such as loss of appetite, weight loss, constipation, sleep disorder, aches and pains, menstrual disorder in females, loss of libido, fatigability and neglect of personal hygiene and appearance. Suicidal thoughts and self-destructive behaviors are common in severe stages. The actual causes of depression are not fully understood. However, a complex combination of genetics, biological changes, environmental, psychological and social factors can cause it. It can be treated even in severe stages using medication, psychotherapy or combination of the two. The earlier that treatment can begin, the more effective it is.   Generally speaking, people who are depressed tend to crave for refined sweets (pastries, candy, chocolate etc.) that have very little nutritional value. Some may also have a

Alzhiemer’s disease is type of progressive dementia (loss of mental ability and memory) caused by the degeneration of brain cells. It begins with memory loss, followed by mental confusion, apathy and depression. Its cause is unknown, although it has been proven that ingestion (intake) of high levels of aluminium favours its onset. Aluminium is toxic to the nerve cells, and higher levels of it are found in the brains of alzhiemer’s patients than in healthy population. Diet plays a vital role in the prevention of alzheimer’s disease. Hence the need to increase the intake of green leafy vegetables and food rich in antioxidants, and Vitamin E . Green leafy vegetables for example, contain silicon; an element than hinders the absorption of aluminium in the small intestines. Alcoholic beverages and cured cheeses should be eliminated from our diet. In addition to dietary advice, it is wise to avoid the following. The use of aluminium cooking utensils p

Nervousness occurs when the nervous system reacts disproportionately to what would be considered a normal stimulus and puts the person in the state of apprehension, anxiety, worry and hesitancy.  It affects how we feel, behave and can cause physical symptoms including sweating without physical exertion.  Nervousness by itself may not be considered a serious problem until it becomes overwhelming, never seems to go away, impacts personal life and/or is accompanied by severe physical symptoms. Often times, stress is the cause of nervousness. However, alcohol, tobacco, coffee, energy drinks and other stimulant beverages also cause nervousness and imbalance in the nervous system. In order to prevent or deal with nervousness, it is important avoid alcohol, tobacco, white sugar, energy drinks and other stimulant beverages and consume foods such as oats, avocado, cashew, apricot, lettuce and passion fruits . In addition to these, other healthy habits like exerci

Insomnia is a sleep disorder that is known for its symptoms of unrest and inability to sleep. It affects millions of people worldwide and its effects can be devastating. Insomnia c ommonly leads to daytime sleepiness, lethargy, poor concentration, and a general feeling of unwell both mentally and physically. Mood swings, irritability, and  anxiety  are common symptoms of insomnia. Insomnia can be  caused  by psychiatric and medical conditions (eg. cough, arthritis, diarrhoea, depression, asthma, chronic pain etc.), unhealthy habits (eg. eating late, sleeping late, bright light, dehydration etc.) substances abuse (eg. alcohol, tobacco, narcotics etc.) and certain biological factors.  The type of food one eats influences his ability to sleep well as well.  To prevent insomnia, you must increase intake of Oats, Malt beverages, Honey, Carbohydrates and lettuce . You must also reduce or eliminate stimulant beverages, spices, chocolate, proteins, soft drin