Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (66 page)

ABSCESSES

Abscesses are usually an accumulation of pus caused by an infection consisting of dead white blood cells and micro-organisms. Abscesses can appear anywhere on the body, internally or externally, including ears, nose, throat, gums, abdominal wall, rectum, or skin. If an abscess appears around a hair follicle, it is usually referred to as a boil. Boils notoriously appear on your bottom or in your armpit. It’s another way for waste to make its way out.

Abscesses may appear in the form of red spots, raised red bumps, inflamed lesions, or yellow-white pustules. Fever, malaise, and swollen glands may be experienced. The infected area around an abscess usually becomes swollen and tender. If you are diabetic, you need to keep your weight in check so that you are less at risk of leg abscesses.

It takes about two weeks for an abscess to open up and rid itself of its pus. When this happens, all pain and inflammation goes away.

Mouth abscesses can be particularly nasty and may require antibiotics (see page
188
), so make sure you get to a dentist if you suspect you have one. You will also need to see a GP if you have a skin abscess that is streaked red, pus-filled, or on the face.

Do not squeeze a boil or abscess. You will make it worse, may cause scarring, and the bacteria may spread through the bloodstream.

CAUSES MAY INCLUDE

Depleted immune system.

Injury to an area.

Nutrient deficiencies, possibly zinc.

Toxic overload and blood impurities due to unhealthy diet and lifestyle.

Inefficient detoxification and elimination of toxins from the body.

High-sugar diet and blood-sugar imbalances. Diabetics are at extra risk, as are people who are overweight. It is not uncommon for diabetics to get leg abscesses.

Viral infection.

Action plan

Abscesses require immediate attention. You may even need antibiotics, so please see your GP. Your goal should be to strengthen immunity through your diet.

EAT/DRINK

Fresh, raw fruits and vegetables. These will help to build up the immune system and aid cleansing. Make sure that you eat some raw food with every cooked meal.

Warm water—at least eight glasses daily. The body cannot heal if it is dehydrated.

Pressed, organic vegetable juice daily. Carrot, celery, cabbage, beet, radish, and parsley all contain beneficial nutrients.

Garlic (preferably raw) daily for its antibiotic, antibacterial properties. You can toss garlic into soups, dips, salads, and stews.