Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (127 page)

Food has made a positive change in my life, after battling with eating disorders for over a decade. I have been recovered for about two years now. I have educated myself about food and nutrition and I am still learning loads. Eating healthily has brought a positive change to my life, as I have more energy, generally feel better, my mind is more balanced, and I have energy to help others, which I love doing. Destroying my body all those years has left me with osteoporosis, digestive problems, intolerances, and I now have faith in good, nutritious food that will help me on the road to proper healing and recovery!

BURNS AND SCALDS

Burns are caused by dry heat and scalds are caused by moist heat. Burns are classified according to degrees of severity. First-degree burns are identified by the skin not being broken. Second-degree burns are when the skin is broken and blistered. Burns more severe than this need hospital treatment.

Action plan

This action plan is designed to help the healing process through boosting your nutrition.

EAT/DRINK

Water: rehydration is important.

Carrot juice, a fantastic source of beta-carotene, which can aid the healing of the skin.

Cucumber juice is also useful as a topical treatment for burns.

Brightly colored fruits and vegetables—these contain antioxidants needed for healing. Vegetable juices would also be recommended for their high nutrient and healing properties.

Foods rich in vitamin C, such as berries, broccoli, and bell peppers, to help your skin to heal.

AVOID

Alcohol suppresses the immune system, depletes nutrients and is dehydrating, which may slow the healing process.

HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Astragalus to help the body adapt to the stress of dealing with the burns.

Take 1 tablespoon of flax seed oil daily—for anti-inflammatory and healing effects.

Take 50 mg zinc once or twice daily.

Vitamins A, C, E, and B complex.

L-glutamine.