Author: Dr. Noor Mohammad Mohibi
The Quran: A Miracle Beyond Time- A Study of Its Miraculous Nature (part 82)
Nutrition, Health, and Diseases prevention
Human Knowledge and Conscious Use of Science
One contemporary thinker, when asked the question, “What should we take from Western civilization, and what should we leave aside?”, replied: We take their knowledge, not their values and beliefs.
Emotion, culture, and the value system of every nation belong to that nation itself; however, knowledge is the shared heritage of all humanity. Human civilization is like honey gathered from the diverse flowers of civilizations throughout history, belonging to all humankind. Thus, benefiting from scientific achievements is not only legitimate, but also a rational and human necessity.
The Alarming Increase of Cancer Diseases and Their Contributing Factors
In recent decades, the incidence of dangerous tumors (cancers) has increased in a worrying and accelerating manner. Many researchers associate this phenomenon with the contemporary lifestyle and extensive human interference in the body’s natural system. Among the most important contributing factors to these diseases are the following:
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Weakening of the acquired immune system:
The human immune system has a highly complex and organized structure and functions like a complete army, including units of recognition, defense, confrontation, and repair. This system is capable of detecting cellular deviation at early stages and preventing its spread.
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Modern chemical factors:
Recent research in genetics has shown that cancer-prone genes exist in the human body and are naturally controlled by inhibitory mechanisms. Some foreign substances, such as extremely fine plastic particles, can deactivate these inhibitors.
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Improper use of plastic:
Using plastic containers in contact with hot or acidic substances, or scratching food packaged in plastic, can lead to the entry of plastic particles into the body.
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Petroleum derivatives and radioactive materials:
Inhalation or entry of these substances into the body, whether directly or indirectly, plays a significant role in increasing the risk of cancer.
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Psychological pressures and chronic anxiety:
Severe and prolonged stress, which has become an inseparable part of modern human life, directly weakens the immune system. Psychological calmness, inner security, and faith are among the most important factors in strengthening physical and mental health.
The Role of the Immune System and Nutrition in Disease Prevention
Scientists believe that the efficiency of the immune system is strongly influenced by a person’s psychological state and nutrition. Love, calmness, hope, and psychological security strengthen this system, whereas fear, anger, anxiety, and resentment weaken it.
On the other hand, certain foods play a direct role in strengthening the body’s immune defenses. For example, scientific research on black seed (Nigella sativa) has proven that this plant has a significant effect on strengthening the immune system, which is responsible for combating infectious and dangerous diseases.
Green Tea and Its Role in Combating Cancer
Global tea consumption reaches millions of tons annually, a significant portion of which consists of green tea. Scientific research has shown that green tea contains active compounds that:
– have anti-cancer effects;
– inhibit carcinogenic chemicals in the body;
– and are particularly effective in preventing cancers of the digestive system.
In Japan, drinking green tea with meals is a common habit, and this practice is considered one of the factors contributing to the lower incidence of certain cancers in that country compared to the global average.
Citrus Fruits and the Wisdom of Their Creation in Winter
Citrus fruits, especially oranges and lemons, are remarkably aligned with the body’s needs during the winter season. These fruits are rich in vitamin C, which plays important roles such as:
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Strengthening the immune system;
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Preventing inflammations;
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Supporting the health of the skin, bones, and digestive system;
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Combating many toxins.
A single orange can meet the body’s daily requirement of this vitamin. Lemon, due to its strong antibacterial properties, also plays an effective role in purifying water and combating certain infectious diseases.
Banana: a Source of Energy and Minerals
Banana is among the fruits with high nutritional value. This fruit is rich in energy, vitamins, and essential minerals such as potassium, calcium, phosphorus, iron, and fluorine. Moderate consumption of bananas, especially for children and active individuals, plays an important role in providing energy and strengthening the body.
Allah the Exalted says in describing the fruits of the people of Paradise: “وَطَلحٖ مَّنضُودٖ[1] ”Translation: And clustered banana trees.
Parsley: a Small Plant with Great Benefits
The more a person’s knowledge of the divine signs increases, the greater his recognition of Allah the Exalted becomes, for there are sometimes things that do not readily come to mind. Parsley [2] is rich in rare elements and contains volatile oil (essential oil). “Two tablespoons” of this plant, finely chopped, provide one-third of the daily requirement of vitamin A, two-thirds of vitamin C, and one-eighth of the daily requirement of iron.
The rare elements found in parsley include arsenic, boron, copper, and titanium. These are scarce elements present in parsley; therefore, some physicians have said: consume everything in moderation, for in every substance there are restorative and healing components for the body.
Vinegar: A Simple Food with Therapeutic Properties
In the Prophetic hadiths, vinegar is mentioned as “the best condiment.”
It is narrated from Jabir (RA) that he said: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) asked his family for a condiment to eat with bread. They said: We have nothing except vinegar. So he asked for it and began to eat, and he said: «نِعْمَ الإِدَامُ الخلُّ[3] » Translation: Vinegar is an excellent condiment.
Scientific research has shown that vinegar:
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Has antibacterial properties;
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Helps with digestion;
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Reduces fats;
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And contributes to the health of the digestive system.
Vinegar, especially apple cider vinegar, is a clear example of the connection between religious teachings and scientific findings.
Miswak (Siwak) and Oral Health
Scientific studies have shown that miswak wood (siwak), especially from the arak tree, contains strong antibacterial compounds whose effect is comparable to some antibiotics. Proper and moderate use of it plays an important role in the health of the mouth, teeth, and even the digestive system.
Conclusion
Human health is a divine trust and a social capital. Healthy nutrition, psychological calmness, and adherence to the principles of moderation in life play a fundamental role in the prevention of diseases. Many simple foods that are readily available to us are, in reality, natural medicines which, if consumed with awareness, can ensure physical and mental well-being. It has rightly been said: the best medicine is that which is food, and the best food is that which is medicine. [4]
To Be continued…
Previous Part
References:
- [Al-Waqi‘ah: 29]
- Parsley: a green, aromatic, edible plant used as a herb and seasoning in foods.
Its scientific name is Petroselinum crispum; English equivalent: Parsley.
It has finely cut green leaves and a thin, soft stem, with a pleasant aroma and slightly pungent taste. It is usually consumed fresh.
It is rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C and A, aids digestion, freshens the breath, and has antioxidant properties. In traditional medicine, it is considered warm and dry, and is used to strengthen the stomach and reduce bloating.
- [Sunan Abi Dawud, Book of Foods, Chapter on Vinegar, Hadith no. 3820, vol. 3, p. 424 “Printed together with ʿAwn al-Maʿbūd.”]
- [Summarized from: Encyclopedia of Scientific Miracles in the Qur’an and Sunnah, vol. 2, pp. 151–159]
