NATURAL ANTIBACTERIAL FOODS
NATURAL ANTIBACTERIAL FOODS
Antibiotic resistance bacteria is on the rise and the CDC’s own director refers to these drug-resistant strains as “nightmare bacteria.” The World Health Organization released a statement late last year, predicting the end of modern medicine as we know it, and a time when “common infections will once again kill” noting a prediction of 10 million deaths in 2050 by “super bugs” resistant to antibiotics. How do we stop this and prevent antibiotic need in the first place? It is most important to support your immune system by working with probiotics and natural antibacterial agents.
NATURAL ANTIBACTERIAL FOODS
GARLIC: Much of the immune-boosting properties of garlic come from its sulfur-containing compounds, which also give the bulb its aroma, particularly one called allicin. These compounds are anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal and protect against parasitic infections. They enhance the immune system and provide anti-tumor and antioxidant features, which help guard our cells. Most recipes start with garlic or onions so make sure to get your benefits by bumping up the intake through soup, stew, stir-fry, and salad dressing. Be sure to let garlic sit for about 10 minutes after being chopped as the oxygen activates its compounds!
OREGANO: Oregano is one of the most powerful natural antifungals, Oregano oil contains two naturally occurring antimicrobial agents named carvacrol and thymol. Research suggests that these chemicals react with the water in your bloodstream to dehydrate and kill bacterial cells. Oregano oil is not only an antifungal, but also has antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
COCONUT OIL: Coconut oil has three beneficial fatty acids: caprylic acid is, capric acid and lauric acid. It is a potent anti-fungal that kills yeast cells, as well as restoring your stomach acidity to its normal levels. It is anti-fungal, antiviral, and antibacterial with the active compound Lauric acid, which is believed to fight infections.
TURMERIC: Turmeric is most often known for its anti-inflammatory powder but it also is a potent anti-microbial agent. In studies, curcuminoids in turmeric have been shown to fight Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The bright orange color in turmeric is the same compound that gives it its anti-microbial power!
HORSERADISH: There are volatile oils in horseradish called sinigrin, which break down intoallyl isothiocyanate, a powerful natural antibiotic. Horseradish contains more medicinally active compounds than most other spices and has the ability to minimize free radical damage, fight bacterial and viruses, and stimulate the immune system.
