Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (234 page)

HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Drink nettle tea. Nettles can strengthen the vascular system and contain vitamin K, iron, calcium, and magnesium.

Supplement with calcium and magnesium. These are needed for blood clotting.

Supplement with vitamin C with bioflavanoids. These are needed for blood coagulation and to strengthen capillary walls.

Supplement with vitamin B complex. The B vitamins are also needed for proper blood clotting.

Take goldenseal extract, which has been found to be helpful for hemophiliacs.

HEMORRHOIDS

Hemorrhoids or piles are swollen bluish, reddish, or purple, often large, inflamed veins and capillaries sticking out of the rectum. They are a bit like varicose veins in the legs and range in size from a pea to a grapefruit. They can be sore, itchy, even bleed at times.

Hemorrhoids usually occur because the system, which brings blood from the stomach and intestines, backs up if the liver is too congested to receive the blood. So when the liver is congested, you end up with hemorrhoids, fissures, and rectal inflammation.

CAUSES MAY INCLUDE

Straining on the toilet.

Bad eating habits.

Lack of fiber.

Too much sugar.

Too much coffee.

Too much alcohol.

Laxative use.

Constipation.

Lack of exercise.