The question of what's causing early puberty in females has been a hot topic on television and popular internet sites this past week. The healthy age of menarche (a females first period) is 14. However, the age of menarche and breast development is dropping significantly, in some cases almost by 50%. So, what is causing early menarche? The media is portraying that it has to do with food additives and increasing rates of obesity in youngsters. There is validity in these two causes, yet there is a primary reason behind food additives and obesity that they aren't telling you.
The primary cause of early menarche is due to the increasing use of anti-biotics, steroids and hormones that are fed to our animals, particularly cow's and chicken's. Conventional farming allows the use of anti-biotics, steroids and hormones to treat the animals if they have infection and to fatten animals up more rapidly. Our two primary meat sources, beef and chicken, are packed into crowded living spaces, movement is restricted, they are fed food that is extremely hard and sometimes impossible for them to digest. Seldom, if ever, do they see sunlight and they are so crammed into their living space that they eat, sleep and live in each other's feces. With such awful living conditions, infection is very common, health is extremely poor and as a result the quality of their meat, eggs and milk suffers as well. Cow's are over-milked and in turn experience soreness, inflammation, and infections in their milk ducts; anti-biotics are supplemented to combat such cruel and unusual punishment. Hormones and steroids are fed to chickens and cattle to make the cuts of meat larger so to appeal to our western slogan "bigger is better".
In fact, bigger is not better as we are mirroring the affects of modern technology in our children. When we encourage factory farming and use steroids and hormones in our food sources, we ingest those substances and they become active in us. Our reproductive systems are made up of hormones and when we add synthetic hormones on top of what is naturally occurring within, our bodies get confused and harmed and start producing hormones at an increased and irregular rate. Such hormones are mimicked in us and cause early menarche and the rapid development of the reproductive organs. Menarche before age 14 is considered early and unfortunately increases one's risk for cancer's of the reproductive organs including breast, uterine and cervical.
Another cause of early menarche and reproductive cancers is due to the excessive use of plastic. When we heat up our foods in plastic or store them in plastic containers, chemicals in the plastic leak out into our foods. This causes substances known as pseudoestrogens which mimic the naturally occurring estrogen within our bodies. Our common use of bottled water poses a major concern in this area. Bottled water is very poorly regulated and typically is the same or even worse than tap water (depending on where you live). I've mentioned in previous articles about where to purchase a water filter that is much superior to bottled or tap water, is better for the environment and is free of pseudoestrogens.
By eating a diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes, we can significantly reduce our child's risk for early menarche. One of the best ways to reduce this risk is to decrease dairy products in the diet, particularly, milk, yogurt, cheese and cream. You can make healthier choices by buying organic milk, (preferably goat's milk), organic cheeses (preferably goat's or sheep cheese) and organic yogurt (preferably goat's). Goat's and sheep's milk constitutionally have a different, more digestible form of protein that is much healthier for our bodies. Adults should look into purchasing and eating raw goat's/sheep's cheeses and milks as these are far superior to other forms. Also, by limiting you and you're child's intake of dairy, you will create a healthier landscape and decrease risk of diseases. Also, look to buy organic, free-range, grass-fed eggs and meats to improve you and your child's health.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Monday, August 2, 2010
Big G get's a Big "F"
Our food and drug administration has decided, finally, that Americans aren't getting enough whole grains, vitamins, minerals and fiber from our diets. Thank Goodness someone is paying attention. However, I wouldn't hold your breath. The bright idea loses it's shine when they call on the big guns which they refer to as Big G or General Mills, to solve the problem. General Mill's is as corporate as Goldman and Sachs with it's agenda being money, greed and bigotry. General Mill's quite literally throws sugar, artificial flavors, corn syrup, dyes, corn (promoted as "whole grain") and a number of GM's cereals contain a substance called BHT into a box. They also add in fortified vitamins which are not in usable form to our bodies.
Back to BHT. BHT is a chemical compound used to protect against the rancidity of fats and oils. BHT is also an additive in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, jet fuels and rubber petroleum products, to name a few. BHT has been shown to be a common allergen which could cause your child to behave out of the ordinary. It is also a known carcinogen and tumor promoter. When we try to conquer nature by using science, we lose, every single time. By preparing our own foods from fresh ingredients, we bypass the need for chemical preservatives and additives. We need to leave the boxes on the shelf, or in our wood stoves, and pick up some cooking utensils so we can pass the art and beauty of preparing and cooking healthy, wholesome meals down to our children. When we teach them to open a box and pour it in a bowl, we're crippling them instead of empowering them.
General Mills goes on to use phrase slogans on the front of their boxes such as "whole grain", "good source of calcium and vitamin D", "Good source of fiber". Here's corporatocracy at its best; conventional, pesticide laden corn that's probably been sitting around for quite some time and starting to mold. That isn't exactly a whole grain. The vitamins they fortify cereals with such as, calcium, vitamin D, iron, and B vitamins are synthetic, yes, they're fake. These vitamins cannot be absorbed in our bodies, instead they are stored in fatty membranes or hopefully they find there way out via urine or defecation, hopefully. The dyes that they add for attractiveness such as Blue dye #1, can "trigger a number of behavioral, learning and health problems". These dyes have also been shown to be carcinogenic, increase nervousness, and lack of concentration they are also derived from petroleum oil. A nauseating (literally) 15 million pounds of dyes are added to U.S. food supplies each year. It is known that each added dye is like ingesting a small dose of cancer. This isn't exactly what we should be feeding our children nor ourselves.
As for the fiber. Unfortunately, it's still not looking too good. With the highest fiber amounts coming in around 3-5 grams with 46 grams of sugar for a 3/4 cup of cereal, that amount of fiber couldn't excrete a rabbit pebble. Try eating 3/4 of a cup of sugary cereal and see if you get satiated. Chances are you won't be or if you miraculously are the probability of you being hungry in about an hour is almost 100% (if you are a healthy individual). Bottom line- these cereals are at the forefront of what's initiating obesity in our youth as well as type II diabetes in children and young adults. In order to change the health of society, we need to change the way we eat. Stop buying chemicals in a box, start purchasing true whole grains such as oats, brown rice, quinoa, amaranth, buckwheat and polenta. The FDA tries to outwit us via its sly advertising methods especially targeting children. We can stop this by discontinuing our purchase of such products. Overall, General Mill's and our FDA get an "F".
If you don't have time for a hot breakfast in the morning, here are some healthy cold cereal choices. Top with berries, ground flax seeds, and goat, rice or hemp milk:
Arrowhead Mills:
Back to BHT. BHT is a chemical compound used to protect against the rancidity of fats and oils. BHT is also an additive in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, jet fuels and rubber petroleum products, to name a few. BHT has been shown to be a common allergen which could cause your child to behave out of the ordinary. It is also a known carcinogen and tumor promoter. When we try to conquer nature by using science, we lose, every single time. By preparing our own foods from fresh ingredients, we bypass the need for chemical preservatives and additives. We need to leave the boxes on the shelf, or in our wood stoves, and pick up some cooking utensils so we can pass the art and beauty of preparing and cooking healthy, wholesome meals down to our children. When we teach them to open a box and pour it in a bowl, we're crippling them instead of empowering them.
General Mills goes on to use phrase slogans on the front of their boxes such as "whole grain", "good source of calcium and vitamin D", "Good source of fiber". Here's corporatocracy at its best; conventional, pesticide laden corn that's probably been sitting around for quite some time and starting to mold. That isn't exactly a whole grain. The vitamins they fortify cereals with such as, calcium, vitamin D, iron, and B vitamins are synthetic, yes, they're fake. These vitamins cannot be absorbed in our bodies, instead they are stored in fatty membranes or hopefully they find there way out via urine or defecation, hopefully. The dyes that they add for attractiveness such as Blue dye #1, can "trigger a number of behavioral, learning and health problems". These dyes have also been shown to be carcinogenic, increase nervousness, and lack of concentration they are also derived from petroleum oil. A nauseating (literally) 15 million pounds of dyes are added to U.S. food supplies each year. It is known that each added dye is like ingesting a small dose of cancer. This isn't exactly what we should be feeding our children nor ourselves.
As for the fiber. Unfortunately, it's still not looking too good. With the highest fiber amounts coming in around 3-5 grams with 46 grams of sugar for a 3/4 cup of cereal, that amount of fiber couldn't excrete a rabbit pebble. Try eating 3/4 of a cup of sugary cereal and see if you get satiated. Chances are you won't be or if you miraculously are the probability of you being hungry in about an hour is almost 100% (if you are a healthy individual). Bottom line- these cereals are at the forefront of what's initiating obesity in our youth as well as type II diabetes in children and young adults. In order to change the health of society, we need to change the way we eat. Stop buying chemicals in a box, start purchasing true whole grains such as oats, brown rice, quinoa, amaranth, buckwheat and polenta. The FDA tries to outwit us via its sly advertising methods especially targeting children. We can stop this by discontinuing our purchase of such products. Overall, General Mill's and our FDA get an "F".
If you don't have time for a hot breakfast in the morning, here are some healthy cold cereal choices. Top with berries, ground flax seeds, and goat, rice or hemp milk:
Arrowhead Mills:
- Spelt Flakes
- Oat Bran Flakes
- Kamut Flakes
- Amaranth Flakes
- Rice Puffs
- Kamut Puffs
- Millet Flakes
- Flax Plus Flakes
Sunday, August 1, 2010
The Art of Chewing
Chewing one's food thoroughly improves digestion and assimilation of nutrients. Many westerners tend to hurry through meals without taking time to truly savor and be grateful for what is on our plates. Once we begin chewing, carbohydrate break-down is initiated; the more fully we chew the less stress our other digestive organs have to face when it becomes their turn to further break-down and assimilate food. It is recommended that foods be chewed at least 50 times or so (until the food is of liquid form) to make carbs, proteins, fats, oils, minerals etc. more absorbable. Also, improper chewing can cause symptoms such as bloating, gas, digestive upset, stomach pain, hiccups, belching and can cause one to be undernourished. Saliva is the substance that initiates the digestive process and releases enzymes that initiate the break-down of nutrients. Further, chewing foods to liquid form can be calming, more nourishing and less taxing on our digestive systems.
The Proof is in the Pudding
Studies have shown that by chewing food thoroughly, as oppose to swallowing foods whole or in larger pieces, increases the amount of beneficial enzymes released and there is also an increase in the amount of toxins released from the body! An additional study demonstrated that proper chewing is linked with decreasing rates of cancer. Also, a study performed in the U.K. displayed that thorough chewing can enhance both long-term and short-term memory.
The Proof is in the Pudding
Studies have shown that by chewing food thoroughly, as oppose to swallowing foods whole or in larger pieces, increases the amount of beneficial enzymes released and there is also an increase in the amount of toxins released from the body! An additional study demonstrated that proper chewing is linked with decreasing rates of cancer. Also, a study performed in the U.K. displayed that thorough chewing can enhance both long-term and short-term memory.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Enhancing Brain Health
Dementia and other degenerative brain diseases tend to have a gradual onset. One major cause of dementia, or memory deterioration, is due to the increase in prescribed medication, particularly in the elderly as this is a common side effect to nearly all prescribed medications. Other causes of brain deterioration include: diets high in saturated fat, animal protein, fried foods, MSG (monosodium glutamate), baking powder containing aluminum (aluminum free baking powder is available in health food stores), alcohol, cigarette and marijuana use, high consumption of tuna or other large fish such as sword fish, shark and king mackerel as they contain high amounts of mercury.
One of the most superior brain foods is fish, particularly fish oil. The most crucial time to introduce fish oil is while your child is in the womb or even better while trying to conceive. Omega-3 fatty acids along with DHA and EPA, also included in fish oils, are key in brain development. It is also important during breast feeding for the mother to take fish oil as it will be transported via breast milk to the infant. As the child weans off of breast milk, it is still important to supplement the child with fish oil. However, not all fish oil is created equally. I've stated before that Nordic Naturals Cod Liver Oil is far superior to other brands, and this still holds true. All of Nordic Naturals fish oil goes through a strict cleansing that removes any PCB's, mercury, and other environmental toxins from their oils. Other brands do not do this so there is a risk of ingesting mercury and other toxins from these other oils. If your concerned that you won't be able to get your child to swallow cod liver oil, Nordic Naturals sells fish oil that are chewable gummies flavored with real fruit. This is a healthy and easy solution for the child if there is resistance to swallowing a mouth full of oil.
Fish oil decreases inflammation and pain throughout the entire body, especially the brain. It prevents any blockage and/or inflammation in the brain and allows the cerebral fluids to flow unimpeded. As an adult, fish oil is also crucial to prevent inflammation and diseases such as ADHD, dementia and Alzheimer's. The American diet tends to be high in omega-6 oils, these include: soybean oil, corn, meat, dairy, eggs, fowl, safflower oil , margarine etc Omega-6 fatty acids increase inflammation, especially when omega-3's are absent from the diet. By decreasing one's intake of omega-6 fatty acids and adding fish oil to the diet and other omega-3 sources, one can enhance brain health, heart health, decrease inflammation and other degenerative diseases such as cancer.
There are other sources of omega-3 fatty acids that also benefit the brain, especially when used in conjunction with fish oil. These include: Flax seeds (be sure to grind as this releases their omega-3 properties; ungrounded flax seeds tend to be hard on the digestive system and the omega-3 properties aren't released unless ground be sure to refrigerate after grinding), chia seeds, hemp seeds (contain a perfect balance of omega-3:omega-6 fatty acids), wild caught fish such as sockeye salmon, Alaskan salmon, wild Coho Salmon and anchovies. Other foods that increase brain health are: walnuts (shaped like a brain!), green leafy vegetables, purslane (a green that can be added to salads or stir-fry's), cauliflower (also brain shaped), and of course following the anti-inflammatory diet will help with maintaining healthy brain function as well.
One cannot discuss brain health without mentioning the benefits of ginkgo. The ginkgo tree is an ancient tree and is regarded as a "living fossil" and "one of the oldest trees in the world". It is a beautiful representation of yin and yang as there are both male and female trees. A female tree cannot produce seeds unless it is adjacent to a male tree or if part of a male tree is inserted into a female tree. A female tree can further produce seeds if it is planted next to water as it's reflection can initiate reproduction. Ginkgo is said to enhance longevity and vitality as the tree itself can grow to great heights and live for thousands of years even under extreme stress such as Atomic bombings, lightening strike and treacherous storms. It enhances circulation and is known as a brain tonic as it increases cerebral circulation and overall brain health. Ginkgo is also known to benefit the heart, kidney's, spleen, stomach and the lungs. Another herb that enhances cognitive function is gotu kola. Gotu Kola is an Ayuvedic herb that can be easily incorporated into the diet by making a tea with other herbs such as peppermint and rose hips.
CAUTION: I am required to state that: One should consult a physician before taking supplements especially if one is on blood thinners as omega-3's and Ginkgo act as natural, plant-based blood thinners.
One of the most superior brain foods is fish, particularly fish oil. The most crucial time to introduce fish oil is while your child is in the womb or even better while trying to conceive. Omega-3 fatty acids along with DHA and EPA, also included in fish oils, are key in brain development. It is also important during breast feeding for the mother to take fish oil as it will be transported via breast milk to the infant. As the child weans off of breast milk, it is still important to supplement the child with fish oil. However, not all fish oil is created equally. I've stated before that Nordic Naturals Cod Liver Oil is far superior to other brands, and this still holds true. All of Nordic Naturals fish oil goes through a strict cleansing that removes any PCB's, mercury, and other environmental toxins from their oils. Other brands do not do this so there is a risk of ingesting mercury and other toxins from these other oils. If your concerned that you won't be able to get your child to swallow cod liver oil, Nordic Naturals sells fish oil that are chewable gummies flavored with real fruit. This is a healthy and easy solution for the child if there is resistance to swallowing a mouth full of oil.
Fish oil decreases inflammation and pain throughout the entire body, especially the brain. It prevents any blockage and/or inflammation in the brain and allows the cerebral fluids to flow unimpeded. As an adult, fish oil is also crucial to prevent inflammation and diseases such as ADHD, dementia and Alzheimer's. The American diet tends to be high in omega-6 oils, these include: soybean oil, corn, meat, dairy, eggs, fowl, safflower oil , margarine etc Omega-6 fatty acids increase inflammation, especially when omega-3's are absent from the diet. By decreasing one's intake of omega-6 fatty acids and adding fish oil to the diet and other omega-3 sources, one can enhance brain health, heart health, decrease inflammation and other degenerative diseases such as cancer.
There are other sources of omega-3 fatty acids that also benefit the brain, especially when used in conjunction with fish oil. These include: Flax seeds (be sure to grind as this releases their omega-3 properties; ungrounded flax seeds tend to be hard on the digestive system and the omega-3 properties aren't released unless ground be sure to refrigerate after grinding), chia seeds, hemp seeds (contain a perfect balance of omega-3:omega-6 fatty acids), wild caught fish such as sockeye salmon, Alaskan salmon, wild Coho Salmon and anchovies. Other foods that increase brain health are: walnuts (shaped like a brain!), green leafy vegetables, purslane (a green that can be added to salads or stir-fry's), cauliflower (also brain shaped), and of course following the anti-inflammatory diet will help with maintaining healthy brain function as well.
One cannot discuss brain health without mentioning the benefits of ginkgo. The ginkgo tree is an ancient tree and is regarded as a "living fossil" and "one of the oldest trees in the world". It is a beautiful representation of yin and yang as there are both male and female trees. A female tree cannot produce seeds unless it is adjacent to a male tree or if part of a male tree is inserted into a female tree. A female tree can further produce seeds if it is planted next to water as it's reflection can initiate reproduction. Ginkgo is said to enhance longevity and vitality as the tree itself can grow to great heights and live for thousands of years even under extreme stress such as Atomic bombings, lightening strike and treacherous storms. It enhances circulation and is known as a brain tonic as it increases cerebral circulation and overall brain health. Ginkgo is also known to benefit the heart, kidney's, spleen, stomach and the lungs. Another herb that enhances cognitive function is gotu kola. Gotu Kola is an Ayuvedic herb that can be easily incorporated into the diet by making a tea with other herbs such as peppermint and rose hips.
CAUTION: I am required to state that: One should consult a physician before taking supplements especially if one is on blood thinners as omega-3's and Ginkgo act as natural, plant-based blood thinners.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Preventing Heart Disease Part II
The previous posting "Preventing Heart Disease Part I", was a strongly opinionated article on the 21st centuries main cause of death. My goal is not to put fear into the readers rather, it is simply to tell you what our society and health care systems fail to portray to us. The concept of controlling our emotions is paramount to health and wellness and is one that doctors too often dismiss. Instead, they prescribe anti-depressants or anti-anxiety pills to band aid up the emotion. Most non-western doctors such as Naturopaths and Chinese medical doctors, treat the patient primarily from their emotional stance. Unstable emotions cause the "qi" or energy to become trapped in individualized sensitive areas of the body resulting in pain, swelling, rash etc. When we can locate the area of stagnation and open up the constricted area it's like opening a flood gate so the water/energy/emotions can rush through and nourish what is on the other side.
When we engage in heart-mind nourishing activities such as meditation, qi gong, yoga, tai qi, we tap into our hearts and step out of our minds. Circulation improves, mood improves, anxiety and depression decreases. Additionally, parasympathetic tone increases; our parasympathetic nervous system is known as the "rest and digest" system, it slows everything down and allows our bodies to relax. Whereas, the sympathetic nervous system is known as the "fight or flight" system; it is constantly stimulated via the go, go, go mentality that our society has become accustom to. Being in this system on a regular basis increases anxiety, increases heart rate, stops digestion, and severely depletes our kidney/adrenal systems. The kidney/adrenals are like our battery; it is where we pull our energy from and is also where we can replenish our stores via the heart-mind nourishing activities and via proper sleep habits. When we continuously pull energy out of the battery and never restore it, that's when pathology begins to manifest.
Nutritionally, if we want to build and cleanse the arteries we must consider a naturally occurring substance called lecithin. Lecithin is found in the yolk of eggs, all legumes (beans) including yellow and black soy beans. Other beneficial foods for the arteries include: brown rice, radish, horseradish, cabbage, broccoli, asparagus, parsley, flax seeds, hemp seeds, chia seeds, mushrooms, seaweeds, buckwheat, almonds, hazelnuts, raw honey and all of the foods listed in the previous post and in the anti-inflammatory diet. It is important it be cautious of over consuming pungent foods such as radish, horseradish, raw garlic, cayenne pepper etc as these benefit the heart in moderation. A small amount is quite beneficial to the heart yet too much actually depletes the heart and weakens its function. It is also important to note that too much salty foods harm the heart, so it is important to watch one's sodium intake. Additional foods that are detrimental to the heart include coffee, trans-fatty acids such as partially hydrogenated oils, hydrogenated oils, palm oils, high fat diets, high sugar diets, fast food and fried, greasy foods.
Consuming a diet with an emphasis on vegetables, whole grains, omega-3 rich fish, berries and small amounts of meats while participating in heart-mind exercises is very beneficial for heart health and overall health as well. Balanced and unblocked emotions are the key to opening one's heart and preventing disease. The great ancient Chinese physicians always consider the heart in all disease as they believe that "all diseases come from the heart".
"Only a reductionist science would need to "prove" the ridiculously obvious: that our hearts are perceptual organs, crucial to our humanness" -Authors Journal Nov, 2003
When we engage in heart-mind nourishing activities such as meditation, qi gong, yoga, tai qi, we tap into our hearts and step out of our minds. Circulation improves, mood improves, anxiety and depression decreases. Additionally, parasympathetic tone increases; our parasympathetic nervous system is known as the "rest and digest" system, it slows everything down and allows our bodies to relax. Whereas, the sympathetic nervous system is known as the "fight or flight" system; it is constantly stimulated via the go, go, go mentality that our society has become accustom to. Being in this system on a regular basis increases anxiety, increases heart rate, stops digestion, and severely depletes our kidney/adrenal systems. The kidney/adrenals are like our battery; it is where we pull our energy from and is also where we can replenish our stores via the heart-mind nourishing activities and via proper sleep habits. When we continuously pull energy out of the battery and never restore it, that's when pathology begins to manifest.
Nutritionally, if we want to build and cleanse the arteries we must consider a naturally occurring substance called lecithin. Lecithin is found in the yolk of eggs, all legumes (beans) including yellow and black soy beans. Other beneficial foods for the arteries include: brown rice, radish, horseradish, cabbage, broccoli, asparagus, parsley, flax seeds, hemp seeds, chia seeds, mushrooms, seaweeds, buckwheat, almonds, hazelnuts, raw honey and all of the foods listed in the previous post and in the anti-inflammatory diet. It is important it be cautious of over consuming pungent foods such as radish, horseradish, raw garlic, cayenne pepper etc as these benefit the heart in moderation. A small amount is quite beneficial to the heart yet too much actually depletes the heart and weakens its function. It is also important to note that too much salty foods harm the heart, so it is important to watch one's sodium intake. Additional foods that are detrimental to the heart include coffee, trans-fatty acids such as partially hydrogenated oils, hydrogenated oils, palm oils, high fat diets, high sugar diets, fast food and fried, greasy foods.
Consuming a diet with an emphasis on vegetables, whole grains, omega-3 rich fish, berries and small amounts of meats while participating in heart-mind exercises is very beneficial for heart health and overall health as well. Balanced and unblocked emotions are the key to opening one's heart and preventing disease. The great ancient Chinese physicians always consider the heart in all disease as they believe that "all diseases come from the heart".
"Only a reductionist science would need to "prove" the ridiculously obvious: that our hearts are perceptual organs, crucial to our humanness" -Authors Journal Nov, 2003
Monday, July 26, 2010
Preventing Heart Disease Part I
Currently, heart disease is the number one cause of death in the United States for both males and females. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) may have a genetic component, especially if a family member (commonly a first line family member such as a mother or father) has a premature (before age 50-55) heart attack or stroke. Precursors for CVD include: diet, stress level, hypertension, quality of sleep, lifestyle, lack of exercise and dental hygiene including amalgam fillings (mercury capped teeth). Heart disease, even genetically related, can be less threatening, and in many cases, even preventable with proper diet, lifestyle reform and stress management.
I want to be sure to highlight the potentially number one cause of heart disease-we hear so much about "heart healthy" foods and how they can prevent the silent killer. Yet, an often disguised component to heart disease is that we as westerners live too much in our heads and not in our hearts. Simply put, we live too much in our head brain and not in our heart brain. We are constantly running from one thing to the next, everything is always go, go, go and there is never any down time for our hearts.
To truly lessen the degree of heart disease we quite literally need to start paying attention to our hearts. Stress and emotional instability further causes us to live more in our heads and by doing so we shut off our ability to listen to what are hearts are truly longing for. Eventually, we are forced to slow down when we have acquired heart disease, that is, when the heart has become so shut off from the rest of the body that it now becomes our pathology. However, if we can entrain our mind to our heart we will decrease mental chatter and will live less in our heads and more so in our hearts. This is also a major reason that individuals who are not overweight also have heart disease; above all, emotional stability far outweighs any other preventative method.
So, how does one go about living more in their heart? It can be as simple as taking ten minutes before rising and ten minutes before bed to sit quietly and meditate. Once you get in a steady routine, start increasing the time you spend sitting by 1-5 minutes per week. And just a fore warning to all you meditators out there, don't get frustrated when mental chatter surfaces during your practice. Everyone experiences mental chatter, with the exception to a holy man or an experienced monk. The goal of many meditative practices is to be able to recognize the mental chatter, not get frustrated with it but instead let it pass and refocus on the breath. A great beginning place for meditation is to focus on the breath. Aim for long, relaxed belly breaths with the tongue resting on the back of the front teeth. Another way to get more in tune with our hearts is to find a moving meditative practice such as yoga, qi gong or tai qi.
As far as diet is concerned, the anti-inflammatory diet, outlined in a previous posting, is a great way to prevent heart disease. Some foods that are specific to the heart include:
I want to be sure to highlight the potentially number one cause of heart disease-we hear so much about "heart healthy" foods and how they can prevent the silent killer. Yet, an often disguised component to heart disease is that we as westerners live too much in our heads and not in our hearts. Simply put, we live too much in our head brain and not in our heart brain. We are constantly running from one thing to the next, everything is always go, go, go and there is never any down time for our hearts.
To truly lessen the degree of heart disease we quite literally need to start paying attention to our hearts. Stress and emotional instability further causes us to live more in our heads and by doing so we shut off our ability to listen to what are hearts are truly longing for. Eventually, we are forced to slow down when we have acquired heart disease, that is, when the heart has become so shut off from the rest of the body that it now becomes our pathology. However, if we can entrain our mind to our heart we will decrease mental chatter and will live less in our heads and more so in our hearts. This is also a major reason that individuals who are not overweight also have heart disease; above all, emotional stability far outweighs any other preventative method.
So, how does one go about living more in their heart? It can be as simple as taking ten minutes before rising and ten minutes before bed to sit quietly and meditate. Once you get in a steady routine, start increasing the time you spend sitting by 1-5 minutes per week. And just a fore warning to all you meditators out there, don't get frustrated when mental chatter surfaces during your practice. Everyone experiences mental chatter, with the exception to a holy man or an experienced monk. The goal of many meditative practices is to be able to recognize the mental chatter, not get frustrated with it but instead let it pass and refocus on the breath. A great beginning place for meditation is to focus on the breath. Aim for long, relaxed belly breaths with the tongue resting on the back of the front teeth. Another way to get more in tune with our hearts is to find a moving meditative practice such as yoga, qi gong or tai qi.
As far as diet is concerned, the anti-inflammatory diet, outlined in a previous posting, is a great way to prevent heart disease. Some foods that are specific to the heart include:
- Hawthorne berry- must be taken daily for at least a month to start having heart healthy effects; sold in bulk in the herb section and can be made into a tea with mint, also sold in pill form
- Pomegranate- best medicinal qualities are found in the whole fruit, many people drink the juice- however, the juice has far too much sugar and will not have the same preventative effects as the fruit
- Onions, garlic, leeks-all members of the allium family, high in antioxidants and have the special quality of thinning the blood; they decrease the instance of clot formation and decrease cholesterol levels as well
- Omega-3 fatty acids-also decrease clot formation, naturally thin the blood, important for brain function especially in the developing fetus and brain health for adults; Nordic Naturals sells the best quality fish oil specifically cod liver oil lemon flavor (lemon naturally preserves the oil) which should be refrigerated upon buying
- Celery-the number one food for preventing and curing high blood pressure
- Avoiding chlorinated water- this includes drinking, bathing and unfortunately swimming in chlorinated pools. Some facilities are starting to offer salt water pools and my last posting includes a very reputable drinking water filter they also offer a shower filter as well that filters out many chemicals including chlorine. Chlorine wrecks havoc on our arterial lining as well as many other systems in the body. We tend to make things too clean these days and by doing so we add chemicals that kill the germs but also are destructive to us as well
- Cayenne Pepper- Adding a small bit of this medicinal pepper to a few meals per week in the summer can be very beneficial to the heart. A friend of a friend of mine was at work and experienced a heart attack a few years back. He conveniently had a bottle of cayenne pepper on his desk and took the entire bottle. When he got to the hospital his blood work came back normal and he suffered zero damage
- Green leafy vegetables-sauteed kale, chard, spinach, arugula contains numerous phytonutrients that contribute to heart health
Friday, July 16, 2010
Reversing Obseity
Obesity is reversible. In fact, all diseases have the potential to be reversible- miracles happen everyday leaving conventional doctors speechless, stunned and baffled. We tend to think of obesity as excess fat. Yet, underneath the accumulation or excess as we would call it in Chinese medicine, there is almost always an emotional expression that is hibernating. The act of eating is joyful, it brings pleasure and is an unconscious means of suppressing emotions that we long to act on.
There are many factors that play into obesity; emotional, poor diet, lack of exercise, depression, sedentary job, sedentary lifestyle, environmental toxins, hypothyroid, fibromyalgia, arthritis, type II diabetes. There is no one cause to obesity just as there is no one cause to disease. There is also no one treatment for any disease, including obesity. Obesity is a process and when treated in a healthy way can take a few to several years to obtain desired results. The greatest assets any one person can have to overcome disease and obesity is persistence, positivity and will.
We can reverse obesity by reforming our lifestyle, including diet, physical activity, stress management, and via learning how to express and detoxify emotional baggage. We are taught in the west to suppress emotions; joy is the only accepted emotional state. We tell people, don't cry, don't be angry, don't worry, if you're depressed take Zoloft (pharmaceutical drug for depression) and we cram these emotions deeper down into our beings. All diseases come from the heart and it starts with the emotions. It is accepted in non-western cultures to express every emotion, in a healthy state -if you're angry don't injure someone, don't yell at your spouse, but go into a room and yell or hit your pillow. Anger in Chinese medicine is the most harmful emotion and is fueled by fear; it is also associated with wind. So, when you are angry, don't suppress or hurt anyone, but allow yourself to healthfully let off some steam, quite literally- let the wind out.
Obesity is a process, it is a shedding of layers (as is all disease). But when we start detoxing the root causes and factors that play into obesity, the weight, suppressed emotions, fatigue and lack of self worth all begin to be released. We need to begin my shedding external toxins that contribute to illness and obesity such as: caffeine, cigarette smoke, heavy metals, air and water pollutants, cosmetics (buy organic), household cleaning products (buy 7th generation of make your own), pesticides and herbicides, pharmaceuticals and preservatives. The latest research has shown that there are over 80,000 synthetic chemicals registered for use in the United States!!! The centers for Disease Control and Prevention have reports that display hundred's of these chemicals that reside within our bodies. It is proven that chemicals such as those listed above, can disrupt and interfere with our immune, endocrine, nervous and reproductive systems. To combat disease and obesity we must eliminate these synthetic materials that set the terrain up for disease.
Unfortunately, fad dieting doesn't touch these underlying issues. We are always looking for a magic pill or drink etc to help us get better or lose weight without doing any work. Staying healthy and reversing disease is very possible, but it requires a keen attention to detail, motivation and you must work at your health to gain results. If you are not healthy, than what else truly matters?
Here are some tips on how to lose weight in a healthy manner:
There are many factors that play into obesity; emotional, poor diet, lack of exercise, depression, sedentary job, sedentary lifestyle, environmental toxins, hypothyroid, fibromyalgia, arthritis, type II diabetes. There is no one cause to obesity just as there is no one cause to disease. There is also no one treatment for any disease, including obesity. Obesity is a process and when treated in a healthy way can take a few to several years to obtain desired results. The greatest assets any one person can have to overcome disease and obesity is persistence, positivity and will.
We can reverse obesity by reforming our lifestyle, including diet, physical activity, stress management, and via learning how to express and detoxify emotional baggage. We are taught in the west to suppress emotions; joy is the only accepted emotional state. We tell people, don't cry, don't be angry, don't worry, if you're depressed take Zoloft (pharmaceutical drug for depression) and we cram these emotions deeper down into our beings. All diseases come from the heart and it starts with the emotions. It is accepted in non-western cultures to express every emotion, in a healthy state -if you're angry don't injure someone, don't yell at your spouse, but go into a room and yell or hit your pillow. Anger in Chinese medicine is the most harmful emotion and is fueled by fear; it is also associated with wind. So, when you are angry, don't suppress or hurt anyone, but allow yourself to healthfully let off some steam, quite literally- let the wind out.
Obesity is a process, it is a shedding of layers (as is all disease). But when we start detoxing the root causes and factors that play into obesity, the weight, suppressed emotions, fatigue and lack of self worth all begin to be released. We need to begin my shedding external toxins that contribute to illness and obesity such as: caffeine, cigarette smoke, heavy metals, air and water pollutants, cosmetics (buy organic), household cleaning products (buy 7th generation of make your own), pesticides and herbicides, pharmaceuticals and preservatives. The latest research has shown that there are over 80,000 synthetic chemicals registered for use in the United States!!! The centers for Disease Control and Prevention have reports that display hundred's of these chemicals that reside within our bodies. It is proven that chemicals such as those listed above, can disrupt and interfere with our immune, endocrine, nervous and reproductive systems. To combat disease and obesity we must eliminate these synthetic materials that set the terrain up for disease.
Unfortunately, fad dieting doesn't touch these underlying issues. We are always looking for a magic pill or drink etc to help us get better or lose weight without doing any work. Staying healthy and reversing disease is very possible, but it requires a keen attention to detail, motivation and you must work at your health to gain results. If you are not healthy, than what else truly matters?
Here are some tips on how to lose weight in a healthy manner:
- Avoid processed foods
- Eat organic fruits and vegetables
- Decrease the number of times you eat out
- Eliminate coffee, alcohol and impure water (buy a water filter best one on the market: premium 10 stage water filter by enviro products http://www.newwaveenviro.com/premium-10-stage-water-filter-p-86.html)
- Eat meats that are free range, organic when possible
- Eliminate soda
- Eliminate fast food
- Decrease charbroiling and grilling
- Eliminate artificial sweeteners (use honey, agave, maple syrup or stevia instead)
- Eat a rainbow of fruits and vegetables, however, one should eat twice as many vegetables as fruits
- Eat brown rice, wild rice or lentils as your sole grain intake 1/2 cup = serving size. It is recommended to eat lentils over brown rice as they have a higher protein content and less carbohydrates than brown rice
- 2-4 servings of protein per day, 1-2 servings being fish from cold water sources such as sockeye salmon, cod, mackerel, red snapper; if you're anemic or of menstruating age 1-2 servings of free range bison per week is permitted and encouraged
- Drink fresh vegetable juices. If you have a juicer or are up for purchasing one, this can be key to your weight loss as it encourages elimination and provides vital minerals and nutrients to your system
- Use only extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, flax oil (not for cooking only for salad dressings, or 2-3 Tbs can be taken per day, store in fridge), grape seed oil or cod liver oil (take 1 tsp per day)
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, tobacco or other stimulants; nuts, seeds, dairy, processed or refined foods, grains except wild or brown rice
- Drink juices and/or shakes throughout the day if hunger comes on. Shakes can be made with hemp or rice milk, berries, vegetable juices from your juicer and hemp protein or organic whey protein can be added if you are not allergic to dairy. I encourage the addition of chlorophyll or spirulina 1/4 tsp per shake (can be taken 2x per day) to increase intake of healthy minerals
- DO NOT START ANY WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM WITHOUT FIRST CONSULTING A PHYSICIAN (if you need help finding a reliable, supportive physician please contact me and I can help you do so)
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Anti-Inflammatory Recipes with Turmeric
Mexican Beans
This dish is a great side dish to a Mexican meal, it is also great on top of rice and Mexican spiced vegetables and/or meat/fish/tofu. Black beans benefit the kidneys and reproductive function, they're also great for the blood and yin fluids. Pinto beans are an excellent source of calcium and both legumes (beans) are an excellent source of fiber. Chili powder contains a powerful substance called capsaicin which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, decreases pain, improves circulation, benefits the cardiovascular system, benefits the prostate, clears congestion and helps balance blood sugars. Turmeric is the number one anti-inflammatory herb thus far, remember it must be added to oil such as extra virgin olive oil and black pepper to be absorbed in the gut. Pepper increases the body's absorption of turmeric by two thousand!!
1 Can Black Beans (or you can soak 1 Cup black beans over night, and cook the next day)
1 Can Refried Pinto or Black Beans
1/2 Medium Red Onion
2-5 Cloves of Garlic
2 tsp Cumin
1-2 tsp Turmeric
2 tsp Oregano
1/2 tsp Chili Powder
2 TBS Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 tsp Black Pepper
Pinch of Sea Salt
1 Handful Cilantro
Pour olive oil in a medium sized pot and heat on medium heat. Dice onions and place in pot and cook for 5-10 minutes. When onions are translucent, pour in your beans, be sure to leave a little of the liquid from the black beans to add in as well. Add in your spices and place on low-medium heat. Stir regularly to avoid sticking to the bottom of your pot. Let cook for 10-15 minutes. About 2-3 minutes before you remove beans from stove, add in your minced/crushed garlic. Garnish with chopped cilantro. Serves 4.
Scrambled Eggs (or Tofu/Tempeh!)
Chicken eggs build the blood and the yin of the body. They have an ascending action and therefore are beneficial in cases of diarrhea and for preventing miscarriage. They are also beneficial for anemia, those with a dry, thin constitution, and benefit dry eyes, throat and lungs. Eggs are one of the best sources of protein for those who are deficient in protein. Contrary to popular belief, eggs, particularly the yolk, is a healthy source of fats, cholesterol and nutrients. Actually, eggs contain a substance that acts as an anti-cholesterol agent therefore blocking the absorption of harmful cholesterol into our bodies. Be sure to cook eggs slowly to not damage the health properties they contain. Try to buy local, organic, free range eggs from your farmers market. Commercial eggs, even many organic brands shave their chickens beaks, and use starvation to promote molting. Local farmers tend to treat their chicks humanely and most include omega-3's in their diet and allow them to roam freely.
4 eggs (or 1-2 cups tofu/tempeh)
Handful of Greens (spinach, arugula, kale, chard)
1/2 Cup Onions
1 tsp Black Pepper
1/2 tsp Turmeric
Pinch Sea Salt
Handful Parsley
1 1/2 TBS Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Gently beat the eggs in a bowl. Heat your skillet on medium-low (about 4) and add in olive oil. When skillet is warm add in onions and let cook 5-7 minutes then add in greens and cook until greens are almost fully cooked (about 1 minute). Add in eggs, pepper, turmeric and sea salt. Cook until eggs are done to your liking. Garnish with parsley. Serves 2.
Dahl
Lentils benefit the heart, circulation and the kidney/adrenals. They promote cellular regeneration, aid physical growth and are healthy for the colon. They also help regulate blood pressure, blood sugar levels, decrease stress and balance the hormones. Red lentils have an additional benefit of nourishing the blood.
1 cup Red Lentils
1/2 tsp Turmeric
3+ tsp Fresh Ginger
1 tsp Cumin
3-4 Cloves Garlic
1 Medium Onion
2 Bay Leaf
2 TBS of the following seeds- fenugreek, anise, cumin, mustard
2 TBS Ghee (olive oil will also work)
Sea Salt to taste
Soak red lentils overnight. When ready to prepare, drain and cook lentils with turmeric and sea salt, cook on medium heat. Add 1/2 of the ground cumin and ginger when lentils come to boil. Remove when lentils are soft and water is mostly absorbed (adjust water amount as needed to prevent lentils from drying out while cooking). In a separate pan, heat ghee on medium heat. Add mixed spices (all the seeds) and cook until seeds crackle. Then add bay leaf and the remaining ginger. Fry for 2 minutes then combine with lentils. Remove bay leaves and serve over rice. Serves 4.
Balti Fish Curry
2lb Thick Fish Fillets (cod, red snapper, haddock) rinse and cut into large chunks
2 Bay Leaves, torn
2/3 Cup of Ghee or Extra Virgin Olive Oil (or blend the two)
2 Large Onions Chopped
1/2 TBS Sea Salt
2/3 Cup Water
2 Handfuls Fresh Cilantro
Marinade
1/2 TBS Garlic and Ginger Paste (mince mix together to make paste)
1 tsp Ground Coriander
1 tsp Ground Cumin
1/2 tsp Ground Turmeric
1/4-1/2 tsp Chili Powder
Pinch Sea Salt
1 TBS water
Prepare the marinade ahead of time (30 minutes-4 hours before the meal) by mixing the garlic and ginger paste, coriander, cumin, turmeric and chili powder together with sea salt in a large bowl. Gradually, stir in the water to form a thin paste. Add and cover the fish chunks with the marinade. Tuck the bay leaves underneath, cover and place in fridge.
When you're ready to cook the fish take out of fridge and let sit for 15 minutes before hand. Melt ghee in large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and a pinch of sea salt cook and stir frequently for about 8-10 minutes. Slowly add the fish and bay leaves to the pan and stir in the water. Bring to a boil then immediately lower the heat and cook for 4-5 minutes. Occasionally, stir the sauce and spread over the fish to make sure all the fish gets equally cooked. When fish begins to flake, remove from heat, remove bay leaves and serve. Garnish with cilantro. Caution to not brown the onions in this dish! If desired you can eat over rice.
This dish is a great side dish to a Mexican meal, it is also great on top of rice and Mexican spiced vegetables and/or meat/fish/tofu. Black beans benefit the kidneys and reproductive function, they're also great for the blood and yin fluids. Pinto beans are an excellent source of calcium and both legumes (beans) are an excellent source of fiber. Chili powder contains a powerful substance called capsaicin which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, decreases pain, improves circulation, benefits the cardiovascular system, benefits the prostate, clears congestion and helps balance blood sugars. Turmeric is the number one anti-inflammatory herb thus far, remember it must be added to oil such as extra virgin olive oil and black pepper to be absorbed in the gut. Pepper increases the body's absorption of turmeric by two thousand!!
1 Can Black Beans (or you can soak 1 Cup black beans over night, and cook the next day)
1 Can Refried Pinto or Black Beans
1/2 Medium Red Onion
2-5 Cloves of Garlic
2 tsp Cumin
1-2 tsp Turmeric
2 tsp Oregano
1/2 tsp Chili Powder
2 TBS Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 tsp Black Pepper
Pinch of Sea Salt
1 Handful Cilantro
Pour olive oil in a medium sized pot and heat on medium heat. Dice onions and place in pot and cook for 5-10 minutes. When onions are translucent, pour in your beans, be sure to leave a little of the liquid from the black beans to add in as well. Add in your spices and place on low-medium heat. Stir regularly to avoid sticking to the bottom of your pot. Let cook for 10-15 minutes. About 2-3 minutes before you remove beans from stove, add in your minced/crushed garlic. Garnish with chopped cilantro. Serves 4.
Scrambled Eggs (or Tofu/Tempeh!)
Chicken eggs build the blood and the yin of the body. They have an ascending action and therefore are beneficial in cases of diarrhea and for preventing miscarriage. They are also beneficial for anemia, those with a dry, thin constitution, and benefit dry eyes, throat and lungs. Eggs are one of the best sources of protein for those who are deficient in protein. Contrary to popular belief, eggs, particularly the yolk, is a healthy source of fats, cholesterol and nutrients. Actually, eggs contain a substance that acts as an anti-cholesterol agent therefore blocking the absorption of harmful cholesterol into our bodies. Be sure to cook eggs slowly to not damage the health properties they contain. Try to buy local, organic, free range eggs from your farmers market. Commercial eggs, even many organic brands shave their chickens beaks, and use starvation to promote molting. Local farmers tend to treat their chicks humanely and most include omega-3's in their diet and allow them to roam freely.
4 eggs (or 1-2 cups tofu/tempeh)
Handful of Greens (spinach, arugula, kale, chard)
1/2 Cup Onions
1 tsp Black Pepper
1/2 tsp Turmeric
Pinch Sea Salt
Handful Parsley
1 1/2 TBS Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Gently beat the eggs in a bowl. Heat your skillet on medium-low (about 4) and add in olive oil. When skillet is warm add in onions and let cook 5-7 minutes then add in greens and cook until greens are almost fully cooked (about 1 minute). Add in eggs, pepper, turmeric and sea salt. Cook until eggs are done to your liking. Garnish with parsley. Serves 2.
Dahl
Lentils benefit the heart, circulation and the kidney/adrenals. They promote cellular regeneration, aid physical growth and are healthy for the colon. They also help regulate blood pressure, blood sugar levels, decrease stress and balance the hormones. Red lentils have an additional benefit of nourishing the blood.
1 cup Red Lentils
1/2 tsp Turmeric
3+ tsp Fresh Ginger
1 tsp Cumin
3-4 Cloves Garlic
1 Medium Onion
2 Bay Leaf
2 TBS of the following seeds- fenugreek, anise, cumin, mustard
2 TBS Ghee (olive oil will also work)
Sea Salt to taste
Soak red lentils overnight. When ready to prepare, drain and cook lentils with turmeric and sea salt, cook on medium heat. Add 1/2 of the ground cumin and ginger when lentils come to boil. Remove when lentils are soft and water is mostly absorbed (adjust water amount as needed to prevent lentils from drying out while cooking). In a separate pan, heat ghee on medium heat. Add mixed spices (all the seeds) and cook until seeds crackle. Then add bay leaf and the remaining ginger. Fry for 2 minutes then combine with lentils. Remove bay leaves and serve over rice. Serves 4.
Balti Fish Curry
2lb Thick Fish Fillets (cod, red snapper, haddock) rinse and cut into large chunks
2 Bay Leaves, torn
2/3 Cup of Ghee or Extra Virgin Olive Oil (or blend the two)
2 Large Onions Chopped
1/2 TBS Sea Salt
2/3 Cup Water
2 Handfuls Fresh Cilantro
Marinade
1/2 TBS Garlic and Ginger Paste (mince mix together to make paste)
1 tsp Ground Coriander
1 tsp Ground Cumin
1/2 tsp Ground Turmeric
1/4-1/2 tsp Chili Powder
Pinch Sea Salt
1 TBS water
Prepare the marinade ahead of time (30 minutes-4 hours before the meal) by mixing the garlic and ginger paste, coriander, cumin, turmeric and chili powder together with sea salt in a large bowl. Gradually, stir in the water to form a thin paste. Add and cover the fish chunks with the marinade. Tuck the bay leaves underneath, cover and place in fridge.
When you're ready to cook the fish take out of fridge and let sit for 15 minutes before hand. Melt ghee in large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and a pinch of sea salt cook and stir frequently for about 8-10 minutes. Slowly add the fish and bay leaves to the pan and stir in the water. Bring to a boil then immediately lower the heat and cook for 4-5 minutes. Occasionally, stir the sauce and spread over the fish to make sure all the fish gets equally cooked. When fish begins to flake, remove from heat, remove bay leaves and serve. Garnish with cilantro. Caution to not brown the onions in this dish! If desired you can eat over rice.
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