Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (215 page)

Caffeine and alcohol, as these add toxicity as well as being stimulants, which can disrupt sleep patterns.

Carbonated drinks containing aspartame.

Foods with MSG (monosodium glutamate).

Green peppers, eggplant, tomatoes, and white potatoes, as they contain solanine, which interferes with enzymes in the muscles and may cause pain and discomfort.

HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Use ginger in your cooking to help clear mucus.

To improve immunity, rotate the following herbal supplements: Siberian ginseng, echinacea, and astragalus.

Drink herbal teas such as nettle, dandelion, chamomile, or echinacea.

Milk thistle is an important herb to include in your regimen to help liver detoxification.

Valerian can also be useful at bedtime to aid relaxation and sleep.

Look for magnesium malate and magnesium citrate, which seem to relieve muscle pain.

The supplement 5-hydroxy tryptophan (5HTP) has also been shown to be of benefit, as it raises the levels of serotonin in the brain.

Taking acetyl carnitine in between meals may help to reduce muscular pain.

Supplement with fish oils twice a day. These have anti-inflammatory properties and can help to relieve muscle and joint pain.

Take a really good-quality multivitamin containing all the B vitamins daily.