(That's me on the left.) I reckon it bloody well should considering the slippery nature of the inflatable bits to try to hold onto/climb up. Actually quite terrifying thinking of falling from the top (no harness but was emboldened by the power of gin&tonics in the sunshine as part of a street festival yesterday).
This past week has seen a small amount of running (got in a couple of 11km runs and one longer 19km slow run) amidst mainly a lot of cycling (and a bit of strength training). The cycling was farkin hard work hey! Guess the muscles weren't that used to it, or the sun was pretty potent, or hey - who knew how hilly Newcastle and its surrounding suburbs were?! Ohwell, great for cross training, but hasn't really helped my sore legs. So will be continuing on with those magical 'healing foods' I mentioned last week, and many times prior to that.
So what's in these foods and WHY are they so great for healing?
Salmon: high in omega 3 fatty acids and antioxidants which reduce inflammation and help prevent cancer. Green vegetables: Choc full of important vitamins and minerals (e.g magnesium, iron, calcium etc) and important phytonutrients, such as carotenoids and flavonoids, such as the bioflavanoid Quercetin - an antioxidant - fights inflammation and cancer. Green tea: high in antioxidants = decreases inflammation, improves immune function and protects cell membranes. Blueberries: Again, rammed full of various minerals (iron, manganese etc) vitamins and fibre, and has a HUGE amount of antioxidants = fight inflammation. Sweet Potato: High in beta-carotene (precursor for Vit A) and other antioxidants, therefore reduces inflammation. Mushrooms: High in selenium (amongst other minerals and vitamins) and antioxidants, particularly important being Ergothioneine, which has a specific protein transporter in the blood - increase natural killer cells and the immune response in the body (i.e. great for a healthy, functioning immune system). Turmeric: The curcumin in the turmeric is an amazing compound that is anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibiotic, and antidepressant. Such a potent anti-inflammatory!! Often way more effective (and safer) than ibuprofen or other drugs. Dark Chocolate: Not only is it a good source of magnesium, copper, manganese, potassium, phosphorous, zinc and selenium (and surprisingly: fibre too) but it contains a range of potent antioxidants, including catechins, polyphenols, and flavanols. It helps with inflammation and with lowering blood pressure. |
How do antioxidants help fight or prevent cancer, you may ask? Well they neutralise the free radicals that circulate in the body that can cause cell damage and lead to cancer (cell mutations). It is important to note that you should only aim to get your antioxidants from real food sources, and not from supplements.
Other ways to help fight cancer through your diet, is to aim to eat mainly foods that help to alkalise the body, instead of causing it to be in an acidic state. Some foods/drinks that acidify the body (and put you at higher risk for various diseases, cancer included) are: alcohol, coffee/tea, soft drinks, meat, dairy products, prawns, peanuts, cashews, bread, pasta. Foods/drinks that put your body in an alkaline state (where its thought cancer cannot thrive in) are: fruit (including lemon and citrus fruits), vegetables, beans, herbs, sprouts, other nuts and seeds, brown rice, chia seeds, quinoa, millet, buckwheat, coconut. Aim for a diet based mainly on fresh, plant-based foods, and aim to limit your intake of acidifying foods.
Of course, unfortunately, there are so many other factors that play a part in disease, and you might have the best, healthiest diet and lifestyle around, yet still develop cancer (or other diseases) due to factors outside of your control (genetics, or environmental reasons). Reduce your risk where you can. This could be through your diet, your lifestyle, or by taking precautions when renovating your house or doing repairs on a property. Asbestos is still all over the place here in Australia hey! Protect yourself today - mesothelioma (a deadly cancer caused by inhalation of asbestos fibres) can take 20 to 50 years to develop after exposure. If you want to learn more about this devastating and fatal disease, please go to: https://www.maacenter.org/ . Here are some tips to protect you and your loved ones: