prevent spasm, to dilate arteries, to strengthen heartbeat, to drive out
excess water and salt, to block beta cell receptors, to slow down clotting
processes, to help decrease cholesterol levels — but all carry deleterious
side effects, especially if they are used for long periods of time. It would
be much better to avoid them if at all possible. Sometimes they provide
fi rst-aid measures, but fi nding alternatives is really worthwhile.
nutrition
The Chinese teach us that bitter foods are very supportive and
strengthening to both the small intestine and the heart and, in our
present sugar- oriented society, I think this is an ever more important
point to remember.
Avoid eating excessive amounts of meat, in order to lower cholesterol
levels and homocysteine levels. High homocysteine levels cause plaque to
build up in the arteries. Folic acid and other B vitamins will greatly help
lower cholesterol and homocysteine levels.
Fats should be avoided in general, while saturated fats, found in meat,
should never be used. Moreover, when you are shopping, read all the
labels on the foodstuffs you buy and, whenever you see oil or fats
mentioned, consider that product undesirable. Olive oil, heated at a low
temperature (not above 90°F) or used raw, is the safest oil to use, along
with fl axseed oil, which is also rich in omega-3 and other fatty acids. Be
sure to use a cold-pressed oxygen-free oil such as Udo’s Oil (available at
http://www.iherb.com)..)
Salt is okay if you use a high-quality variety — if possible, hand-
harvested and sun- and wind-dried. These salts have the correct balance
of minerals and naturally tend to be lower in sodium. Used sparingly in
cooked food, they are acceptable. Raw food does not need extra salt
fl avoring, but explore the use of herbs and spices, which often negate the
need for salt. Consider using coriander seeds, bay, thyme, and fennel
fronds.
Avoid alcohol, as it increases the strain on the circulatory system and
heart, breaking open veins and expanding the arteries. It also increases
free-radical damage and oxidation. Oxidation is what happens when
something is overexposed to oxygen. Like a piece of rubber when it gets
older, veins and arteries go hard, lose their elasticity, and will fi nally crack
or sag.
Basic positive foods include beets (the color of blood). Taken raw,
juiced, or cooked, they will clear, cool, and strengthen the blood and
heart. Use them mixed with apple or carrot if the taste seems too intense.
Onions and garlic are master cleansers and coolers of the heart and whole
circulatory system. Whole wheat (the whole organic grain of wheat) is
172 The Complete Home Guide to Herbs, Natural Healing, and Nutrition