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Iron is an essential mineral that every person needs to have in their diet. However, the amount of iron required to maintain a healthy body and mind can vary a surprising degree from one person to another. Though a balanced diet rich in lean proteins and fresh vegetables will provide a steady source of iron, many people can benefit from iron supplementation. Here are five great reasons to consider taking an iron supplement. If you think you could benefit from extra iron, consider talking with a doctor or nutritionist. They can help you determine exactly how much is required to get you feeling great.

Traditional fermented foods are known for potent smells and strong flavors. Through a process known as lacto fermentation, these foods contain lactic acid that is created when natural bacteria consume sugar and starch.

Banaba is a plant that is commonly found in India, the Philippines and many parts of Southeast Asia. Also known as Lagerstroemia and crape myrtle, it is a lavender and pink plant with flowers that can grow as tall as 30 feet. It has been widely used for thousands of years for its medicinal qualities.

Tea is one of the oldest beverages on earth and one of the most highly valued, too. Originally grown in the region that is now China, the tea plant (Camellia sinensis) has spread over the century. Today it is cultivated in China, Japan, India, and beyond. For centuries tea has been prized for its restorative properties and its overall curative powers. Thanks to a number of sophisticated and delicious varieties and blends, it is possible to enjoy a different beverage whenever you want. These are six tea varieties that you can use every day to improve your mood, boost your metabolism, improve your health, and calm your mind.

Honey is one of the most prized natural foods on the planet and for good reason. Until quite recently in human history, honey was among the very sweetest foods available. Today, we have many different sweeteners available but honey is still highly valued. Its unique history, chemical properties, medicinal qualities, and health promoting character has made it an important part of everyone’s pantry. If you do not have any at home, these seven facts will give you a reason to change that.

While you may not be familiar with coconut oil, you’re sure to go out and stock up after you learn how great it is for your overall health. You can take coconut oil daily by the tablespoon, use it for cooking, apply it to your skin or use it in your hair. Now for the benefits of coconut oil!

You may be worried that your addiction to coffee is becoming more like an unhealthy obsession, but you might start drinking even more coffee when you learn how many health benefits the wonderful liquid from the gods provides your mind and body. There’s a lot more to be gained from drinking coffee than increased energy.

Both Acai berries and dark cherries are powerful antioxidants with acai at the top of the ORAC scale (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) which the USDA scientists have developed a way to measure the ability of antioxidants to absorb free radicals.  (USDA Human Nutrition Research Center at Tufts University)  Free radicals are an atom or group of atoms with one or more unpaired electrons especially one that is produced in the body by natural biological processes or introduced from an outside source and that can damage cells, proteins, and DNA by altering their chemical structure. Essentially they are unstable molecules, atoms or ions that can cause harm to the body.  (www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/freeradical)

While you might already like the taste of cinnamon, that like is sure to turn to love when you discover just how good cinnamon really is for you. Rather than head for the supplement aisle to boost your health, here at PurMEDICA we recommend you head to the seasonings and spices aisle. While there are several other seasonings that come with special health benefits of their own, seven health benefits of cinnamon will take center stage for this post.

Acai berries are one of the most potent botanical medicines on earth. In fact, this fruit is rightly called a superfood. Each little berry is packed with essential nutrients, beneficial antioxidants, and other helpful substances. This fruit is rich in B vitamins, which help reduce painful inflammation and promote improved physical stamina. Acai can be used for all kinds of helpful purposes and best of all, it is very easy to integrate into your daily life.

The use of celery dates back centuries and was first identified in the Mediterranean and used as an aphrodisiac by the Greeks and Romans.  They thought celery was somehow magical and was associated with the underworld divinities.  It was often buried with the deceased and used as a prize for the winners of the Greek and Roman games. The Egyptians also valued celery. It is said that it was buried with King Tut to assist in his journey to the next life.

You probably already know that leafy greens, berries, and fish like salmon are good for you and your heart, but what about chocolate and red wine? At PurMEDICA, we’re always on the lookout for surprising new heart-healthy superfoods. Here are ten of our favorites.