Iron Booster Soup Recipe - The Importance of Iron

The Importance of Iron - Plus Iron Booster Soup Recipe

By Michèle Wolff B.H.Sc Naturopathy, Dip. Colonics and Author

Iron is of vital importance during stages of growth such as pregnancy, teenage years and for children six months to four years of age. If adequate iron is not available during these times, it may result in suboptimal growth and development

What is the problem with having suboptimal iron levels?

If you have low iron levels and it is left unmanaged, you may develop iron-deficiency anaemia. This impairs red blood cell development and reduces the delivery of oxygen to the cells of the body. You may notice the symptoms of fatigue, weakness, pallor and shortness of breath as a result of low iron levels. In addition, low iron levels affect the body in other ways, impairing the function of many enzymes in the body affecting cellular energy production, hormone production and detoxification pathways. Iron is also of vital importance during stages of growth such as pregnancy, teenage years and for children six months to four years of age. If adequate iron is not available during these times, it may result in suboptimal growth and development

Key Lifestyle Factors that Affect Iron Level

There are several factors that interfere or alter iron absorption and requirements:
Antacids and proton-pump inhibitors are commonly used in the management of gastroesophageal reflux disease. These medications reduce gastric acidity and the production of gastric acid, this significantly reduces iron absorption
Aspirin and other medications may bind to iron and reduce its absorption.
High levels of physical activity, such as that undertaken by athletes causes increased iron loss from the body via sweat, urine and faeces. Those that undertake high intensity physical activity should have their iron status evaluated

Could I Have Low Iron?
Do you feel tired or fatigued?
Do you feel weak?
Do your skin, nails or gums look pale or feel cold?
Do you get short of breath or breathe rapidly?
Do you get dizzy or lightheaded?
Is it difficult to concentrate?
Does your pulse race?
Do you have heart palpitations?
Is your menstrual cycle irregular?
Do you have numbness or coldness in your hands or feet?
Do you suffer with Restless Legs Syndrome?
Are you irritable?
Do you feel sad or depressed?
Do you suffer from recurring infections or colds?
Is your haemoglobin less than130-170 g/L for adult males and 120-150 g/L for adult females?
Have you ever been diagnosed with anaemia?

If you answered yes to five or more of these questions, you may have an underlying iron deficiency. You can discuss this with your practitioner and they can further evaluate your iron status.

Iron Booster Soup Recipe

Ingredients: Quantities to be determined by taste
Celery
Mushrooms
Parsley stalks
Garnish with fresh parsley leaves
Beetroot

Method:
Blend all ingredients.

Optional garnishing for nutritional value with fresh cilantro or alfalfa sprouts and sprinkle with nigella seeds or sesame seeds. Add turmeric for an anti-inflammatory effect. Add a tsp. of whole flaxseeds for a soothing effect.

Chakra cleansing and activation

Chakras are circular (or flower petal shaped) vortexes of energy lying across seven different points on our spinal column. The seven chakras are connected to different glands and organs in the body and are responsible for uniform distribution of “Chi” (also called “Qi” or Praana or life energy) through them. When there is a disruption in this life energy or a blockage in any one or more Chakras, the individual may suffer from health or mental issues. Thus, the Chakras form the energy ecosystem of every individual. A deficiency in this ecosystem can wreak havoc in the different areas of life.

Each Chakra is also associated with specific chakra colours. In this brief guide, we shall study the different chakra colours as well as the areas of life the different chakras impact.

Different chakra colours and their meanings

The Root Chakra – The Sanskrit word for this Chakra is Mooladhara Chakra (mool means root). The chakra colors associated with the root chakra is Red. The root chakra defines our relation to Earth. It impacts our vitality, passion and survival instincts. The red chakra colors are also indicative of our need for logic and order, physical strength and sexuality as well as the fight or flight response when faced with danger. The sense of smell in the human body is connected to the Root Chakra. The gland to which the root chakra is attached is the Gonads.

The Sacral Chakra – The Sanskrit word for the sacral chakra is the Swadhisthana chakra. The chakra colors associated with sacral chakra is orange. Swadishthana chakra relates to the water element in the human body. The chakra colors orange impact sexuality, reproductive function, joy, desire and even creativity, compassion for others etc. The sense of Taste is associated with the Sacral Chakra. Glands and organs impacted by this chakra include the lymphatic system, female reproductive organs, large intestine, pelvis, bladder etc.

The Solar plexus Chakra – The Sanskrit word for this chakra is ManiPura Chakra which literally translates to “city of jewels”. Thus the solar plexus chakra is the personal power chakra that is responsible for one’s personal and professional success. The chakra colours yellow of this energy vortex are associated with fire, energy, charge etc. This element of fire, when balanced and harmonious allows one to feel more confident, cheerful and energetic along with a right amount of respect for self and others. Our sense of sight is associated with the solar plexus chakra. The glands or organs associated with Solar plexus chakra are Adrenal glands.

The Heart Chakra – Anahata Chakra or the heart chakra is associated with the chakra colors Green. This chakra influences our relationships and has the Air element. A weak heart chakra is responsible for sabotaging the relationships through distrust, anger and envy etc. Sense of touch is impacted by the heart chakra and the glands connected to it are Thymus and lymph.

The Throat Chakra – The Vishuddhi chakra refers to our true voice. As the name suggests, the Throat chakra with its chakra colors Blue is associated with the ability to communicate, listen etc. The glands to which the Throat chakra is attached are the esophagus, ears, throat, thyroid, jaws, teeth and neck vertebrae. The ethereal element of the Throat Chakra, when balanced, allows an individual to have pleasant voice, artistic abilities, expressive ways and also ability to be in a higher place spiritually. The individuals with balanced throat chakra are able to meditate well and use their energy efficiently and artistically.

The Brow/Third Eye Chakra – The Ajna Chakra literally translates to “centre of knowing or monitoring”. This chakra is associated with chakra colours Indigo and is connected to the Pineal or pituitary gland. Those with a well balanced brow chakra can have telepathic abilities, charismatic personality and they often do not have any fear of death. The element of electricity or telepathy along with the chakra colors of Indigo are associated with our sense of Thought.

The Crown Chakra – This chakra is known as Sahasrara chakra in Sanskrit and is associated with the chakra colours of violet or purple. The crown chakra is associated with the pituitary gland, nervous system, and the brain and head region with its element of light. In its balanced state, this chakra can render individuals the ability to perform miracles, transcend the laws of nature, and have a heightened awareness of death and immortality.

Once you are aware of the 7 Chakras and their chakra colours, you can consider the methods of awakening and strengthening them in order to balance all areas of life. Doing so can help you stay mentally and physically fit, and also improve your financial/professional lives. For more information on chakras and colours visit: http://www.color-meanings.com/

I recommend to listen to this chakra cleansing video frequently. Cleanse & Activate your 7 Chakras in 20 minutes leaving you feeling Energised & Recharged!