SheSue Experience

Today thousands of people enjoy their cup of “joe” in the morning even while rumors spread about how bad coffee is for you. In excessive amounts – meaning more than whatever an individual’s body can tolerate – coffee can cause nervousness, jitters, and rapid heartbeat. But studies now show that there are a lot of benefits to drinking coffee as well.

One such study showed that coffee may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. It was proven that people drinking 1-3 cups of coffee each day can reduce the risk of diabetes by several percentage points. 6 cups cut men’s risk by 54% and women’s risk by 30% over those who avoided coffee.

In a laboratory study, it was found that a group of compounds called quinines found in coffee increases insulin sensitivity. This sensitivity improves the body’s response to insulin. Coffee also contains large quantities of the antioxidants tocopherols and chlorogenic acid, as well as minerals such as magnesium. All of those components have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism.
Other studies showed the following results:

* 80% lower risk of developing Parkinson’s disease
* 25% lower risk of colon cancer
* 80% lower risk of liver cirrhosis
* 50% lower risk of gallstones

Another impressive study showed that a history of consuming caffeinated coffee appears to help preserve cognitive skills such as thinking, memory and comprehension — possibly because of long-term caffeine exposure.

Of course, too much caffeine can cause restlessness, anxiety, irritability, tremors, sleeplessness, headaches, gastrointestinal symptoms and abnormal heart rhythms. In some individuals, caffeine can increase blood pressure. Some people are extra sensitive to even slight amounts of caffeine.

Something to watch out for. Some studies have tried to prove that coffee can cause high cholesterol. But it was found that it is the coffee oils that are responsible in unfiltered or boiled coffee. So remember to filter your coffee.

Next is Tansy, an herb. She is the fraidy cat. Afraid of everything and everybody. Since coming to stay, it took her 2 days before she would come out from under the covers to check me out. Then a big gust of wind rattled the windows and she raced back for cover.

Finally we have Cori, short for coriander. She is the old woman of the three, 16 years old. Once again a beautiful coat, Cori is the standoffish cat. She will come out and sit and stare at me, but not make any moves towards me. I can get her to check out what I have in my hand if I approach her, but she doesn’t make attempts to come see.

So I had to wonder if cats get homesick. Are they pining for my sister? I checked out a few places on line but can find nothing. I did find very different opinions on whether a cat cries. Many people said yes, but the vets say no. The vets insist that cats don’t have emotions like humans do. After raising a daughter who once wanted to be a biologist, I have to disagree with that.

I have toys for the cats, supposedly some of their favorites, but they don’t play with them. Perhaps they do when I’m at work. They do seem to be eating and doing their thing. I’ve never had cats because my husband thinks he is allergic to them, so I don’t know what to expect. I guess I shouldn’t be that worried, but I am. They are my sister’s only family.

There are three main defenses: our immune system, control of inflammation and nutrients that reduce the growth of blood vessels which are needed by tumors. So if Aunt Mary had cancer, does that mean you won’t get it? Maybe, but studies have shown that genetics only contribute to 15% of risk, the other 85% is determined by our lifestyle choices.

In the past couple of decades, Americans are showing a breakdown of these defenses. For most of us, it’s a simple matter of choosing to live more healthy. Most of you know that exercise is good for you and a healthy diet. There are some other simple habits that help defeat cancer.

Cut out the Sugar – Cancer thrives on sugar which causes inflammation. Try to avoid refined sugar including soda, ketchup and white flour which quickly turns into sugar.

Walk out the Cancer – 30 minutes a day of any exercise can dramatically reduce the risk of cancer. I am a walking fool, once you start, it becomes addictive. Be sure to choose a form of exercise that you will stick to.

Ommm… – Stress causes inflammation and weakens your immune system. It’s so easy to say get rid of the stress. It’s more practical to learn out to respond to stress differently. Yoga, qigong or meditation can reduce your stress and strengthen our resistance to the cancer.

Toxins in the House – You don’t have to live in a vacuum seal, but you can minimize the toxins in your house. Watch for the following:
1. cosmetics
2. Teflon pans
3. dry cleaning
4. water heated in hard plastic

Foods that Fight Back – While you get rid of sugar, be sure to eat plenty of the following foods that help fight cancer:
1. Herbs and spices including thyme, rosemary, mint, basil, sage, turmeric, ginger
2. Omega 3 fatty acid rich food including salmon, sardines, mackerel, walnuts, green vegetables
3. Vegetables including broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage
4. Garlic, onions, leeks
5. Raspberries, blueberries, blackberries
6. Dark chocolate
7. Green tea, pomegranate juice, red wine (in moderation)

Most people who take on these lifestyle changes will notice a difference in a couple of weeks. You will have more energy & drive; feel more at peace and be filled with a passion for life. For more information on cancer, check out the American Cancer Society.