I chose this subject in an effort to awaken the senses of readers as to what healing really means. Recently, I've had casual conversations with people about acupuncture and herbal medicine, mostly inquiring those unfamiliar with the territory, and many have been intrigued with acupuncture yet often respond with something like, "that sounds really great and I'm interested, but I don't know what I'd get treated for". About four or five years ago, I would have responded the exact same way. However, my perspective on healing has transformed dramatically since then and I want to take some time to reach out to you all and gently challenge and encourage you to explore what this word healing means to you and the areas of your life that may need healing.
In 2006 I was in a life threatening car accident. I had been living an active life that revolved around athletics, pushing myself physically always striving for better, more, with a go, go, go type of modern day mentality. One day, that all stopped unwillingly as my car crash left me with a severe concussion and the inability to walk without being in severe, severe pain and pressure around my body and head. My legs were taken out from underneath me, my entire life structure had been dismantled and I was left powerless and immobile in my bed for months. I literally had to be completely broken down to begin my path of healing.
I want to make a strong point in saying that one's life structure doesn't have to be shaken in order to initiate healing. However, this is often the case and is frequently the exact reason why we're suddenly thrown into suffering and illness- to awaken our body and spirit, which is quite literally saying,"hey, something isn't right here", and provides one with a direct opportunity to transform suffering into something greater. Pathology, trauma, PTSD, drug/alcohol abuse, addictions, unhealthy relationships are all external forces that challenge us to examine our truth on earth, our life path, our destiny.
Yet, you can begin healing before pathology occurs. In fact, ancient Chinese Classical texts repeatedly state that "the superior physician treats disease before it manifests". If you take initiative to heal yourself before disease occurs, you will not only be healing yourself, but your children, your ancestry and future generations as well. This may be hard to fathom, yet when you look at hereditary diseases, although they may manifest as physical illnesses, they ALL stem from emotions that get trapped in one's body. Let me repeat this because many people in the western world don't fully comprehend this concept, physical illness stems from trapped internal emotions. If you cannot work these emotions out, they will be passed onto your children and if they can't work out the lineage of emotional baggage, it will be passed onto their children etc.
For example, when we see patterns of breast cancer in a family line these often reflect patterns of heart break, abuse, feelings of lack of self worth to name a few. Of course, these are generalizations and all pathology manifests differently in each individual, but typically there are certain patterns that we inherit from our ancestry. Abuse is another classic example of this; when you do not heal abuse in your family line, it gets passed onto the next generation. If one does not seek help around their abuse, it feeds on one's internal landscape and will one day manifest into pathology. Abuse is a huge topic in itself; 1 in 3 females are sexually abused and 1 in 5 males are sexually abused and these are only the reported cases. One should not feel like it is their fault for being abused, it is NEVER, NEVER one's fault for being preyed on. It should also be noted that everything before age 12 that we do or encounter comes directly from our parents or ancestry, it is not you. I strongly recommend psychotherapy and alternative medicine to help heal one's woundings from illness, whether it relates to abuse or other pathology, these two modalities that unite the mind and the body will get to the core of healing.
I know that this may be an intense posting that may activate some of you. I want this to be an empowering posting and encourage you all to take initiative to heal the places within yourself that may need attention. If you don't have money to seek healing, you don't need to start there. A great starting place is to slow your life down and take time to feel your emotions instead of ignoring and suppressing their existence. All emotions are attached to a person, an event, family etc. When you realize what they are attached to start forgiving yourself and the thing or person attached to your feelings. Also, start loving your family and instead of speaking negatively about parents, siblings, etc, think of all the positive things about them. Don't think negatively about them, they gave you the gift of life and the opportunity to manifest your destiny. Healing doesn't have to be for those who are experiencing pathology, we all are experiencing pathology, it just hasn't manifested in some of us yet and it doesn't have to. If you are experiencing pathology, it is a beautiful opportunity to heal and transform suffering into wisdom, unconditional love and truth. Be well.
"When healing is viewed as an opportunity rather than a crisis, profound things will happen".
*I am required to state: please seek healing according to what best suits you. Please practice such exercises mentioned in this blog at your own risk, I am not accountable for you please seek medical attention if need be.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Flu Season
After a summer of travel, research, spiritual deepening and growth, the blog is back. Fall has arrived and winter is approaching, with this comes the fear of germs, flu and cold season. Our nation has become obsessed with anti-bacterial, anti-germ, and the "everything must be clean" theory. Of course we don't want to be sneezing on each other and should be conscious to wash hands after coming into contact with mucus membranes such as runny nose, sneezing or wet cough, but this is in every season, not solely the fall/winter. There are some relatively simple precautions you can take to protect you and your family from the spread of winter illnesses.
The most important factor is to breast feed your children if you can. Our immune systems are developed from a very young age and the foundation that is laid then is crucial for the child's immune function throughout life. By breast feeding, you're enhancing your child's TH1 cells which deals with fighting off invasions from bacteria and viruses. If you are unable to breast feed, you should seek a formula that contains colostrum as it can provide the same benefits. When we don't breast feed or provide colostrum, then our TH2 cells become dominant. TH2 cells increase one's risk for allergies and asthma, if your child has allergies from a very young age, it is quite possible that it is due to this. Also, mom's who are breast feeding should not be overly concerned with getting a flu shot for their child (if they are breast feeding). If the mom feels it necessary to further protect the child, you can get the flu shot yourself as the antibodies will pass to the child via breast milk. This is also true of eating a balanced diet, those nutrients get channeled to the infant via the same mechanism.
If you have young children who are no longer breast feeding, again flu shots are not necessary. It is healthy for a child to get exposed to germs as it will boost their immunity. We can compare this to fruits and vegetables; the more natural hardship a fruit/vegetable faces, the more anti-oxidants it contains. When it is exposed to a variety of weather patterns cold, rainy, sunny, dry etc its anti-oxidant content increases in an effort to protect itself from the damage of the weather patterns. Whereas, fruits and vegetables that have been sprayed with pesticides and herbicides have extremely low anti-oxidant levels as well as the addition of toxic sprays because they don't have to fight back to save their lives. The same holds true in us, especially children and adolescents, when we expose ourselves to germs we boost our natural defenses. When we incessantly kill them with anti-bacterial soap or excessive hand washing, we increase our natural defenses. It should be noted that overuse of anti-bacterial soap kills not only the germs but our protective immune cells on the skin as well further decreasing our immune systems.
The best thing to do for a child is to decrease sugar intake (sugar directly decreases the absorption of vitamin C in the body), increase vegetable intake, forget the orange juice as a source of vitamin C, unless it is fresh squeezed with no additional ingredients. Orange juice is high in sugar and the vitamin C content is much less than a serving of fresh vegetables and fresh fruits. Also, be sure that your child goes to bed early, bathe them once per day and watch for warning signs of the flu so you can provide the appropriate care before the virus progresses.
Adults can prevent the cold/flu by getting appropriate rest, waking and rising at regular hours (rise between 5-7am and get to sleep between 9-10pm). Also, stress directly effects our immune systems; by managing stress we boost our immune systems; a balanced, healthy diet is crucial as well as decreased caffeine, alcohol and sugar intake. If you feel yourself coming down with a cold/flu, chop up a clove of raw garlic and add it to some warm water with 1/2 tsp raw honey and drink. This can be done up to 3 times per day. Also, there are some excellent herbs that help build the immune system such as elderberry, rose hips, echinacea, thyme and the herb licorice (not the candy!). You can combine these to make a tea and drink throughout the day.
Important Flu Facts:
Each year in the U.S., anywhere from 5-20% of the population gets the flu. The flu season lasts for about six weeks, usually sometime in late fall or early winter, taking three weeks to reach its peak, and then three weeks to subside. There are 200,000 flu-related hospitalizations per year and 36,000 deaths, with more than 60% (of hospitalizations) and 90% (of deaths) being in those over age 65. While most people recover on their own in 1-2 weeks, high risk groups include those with chronic health conditions, the elderly, and very young children. In addition, despite the hype of our last flu season, more than 99% of people infected with swine flu have recovered without needing medical treatment, and 70% of those hospitalized for it were those with underlying medical conditions.
Deciding on Vaccination:
Each year, the World Health Organization puts together a vaccine by determining the three most likely strains of flu to circulate in a given season (which must be decided at least six months in advance to produce enough vaccine in time), which are then incorporated into “the flu shot”, also known as the trivalent influenza vaccine (TIV). Additionally, there is the Live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV), which is administered as a nasal spray and contains the live virus (as opposed to the TIV, in which the virus is not alive). Though both can result in mild side effects, the main concern when considering these vaccines is the additives in the TIV. Perhaps most concerning is the addition of Thimerosal, a preservative often used in this vaccine which contains mercury. Few studies have examined the risks involved with exposure to this additive, though it is known that it is very toxic when inhaled, ingested or contacted via the skin. Thimerosal also crosses the blood-brain and placental barriers, and appears to accumulate in the kidneys and the central nervous system. The LAIV does not contain thimerosal, and so may be a safer choice, in particular for children. Some studies have also shown that the LAIV may be more effective in children than the TIV, though it is not safe for use in children under the age of two, or those over age 50. Both vaccines, however, work under the assumption that the World Health Organization was able to guess the correct strains of flu and include them in the vaccine. Otherwise, they will not be helpful for the current year’s flu season.
Taking all these facts into consideration, it is still a difficult decision whether or not vaccination is the right choice. If you are considering getting the TIV, it would at least be worth inquiring whether or not it contains thimerosal or other mercury preservatives before making a final decision. If you are additionally making a decision for your child, take into consideration their general level of exposure, their overall health, and in particular, consider using the LAIV if they are over two years. Also, keep in mind that a mother’s antibodies will protect a child who is breast-feeding regularly, which may help alleviate some of the concern for the very young. For any vaccine, but particularly with the LAIV, try not to get it when you are already sick. This could place an undue burden on your immune system and lead to more serious side-effects, especially in children
Recommendations for Cold/Flu Prevention:
The above information is not to suggest that the flu is not a serious illness, however. Emergency warning signs of the flu include: difficulty breathing, pain or pressure in the abdomen or chest, confusion/delirium or sudden dizziness, or severe and persistent vomiting. In children, look out for fast or difficult breathing, a bluish color to the skin, difficulty waking up or interacting, dehydration, extreme irritability and not wanting to be held, fever accompanied by a rash, or symptoms that get better and then return with a fever and a cough.
*I am required to tell you not to take supplements or vitamins without first consulting a licensed health care professional. If you have questions, please ask. Also, the decision to vaccinate is solely up to you and your family.
Article by Heathar Shepard and Ashely Brown
The most important factor is to breast feed your children if you can. Our immune systems are developed from a very young age and the foundation that is laid then is crucial for the child's immune function throughout life. By breast feeding, you're enhancing your child's TH1 cells which deals with fighting off invasions from bacteria and viruses. If you are unable to breast feed, you should seek a formula that contains colostrum as it can provide the same benefits. When we don't breast feed or provide colostrum, then our TH2 cells become dominant. TH2 cells increase one's risk for allergies and asthma, if your child has allergies from a very young age, it is quite possible that it is due to this. Also, mom's who are breast feeding should not be overly concerned with getting a flu shot for their child (if they are breast feeding). If the mom feels it necessary to further protect the child, you can get the flu shot yourself as the antibodies will pass to the child via breast milk. This is also true of eating a balanced diet, those nutrients get channeled to the infant via the same mechanism.
If you have young children who are no longer breast feeding, again flu shots are not necessary. It is healthy for a child to get exposed to germs as it will boost their immunity. We can compare this to fruits and vegetables; the more natural hardship a fruit/vegetable faces, the more anti-oxidants it contains. When it is exposed to a variety of weather patterns cold, rainy, sunny, dry etc its anti-oxidant content increases in an effort to protect itself from the damage of the weather patterns. Whereas, fruits and vegetables that have been sprayed with pesticides and herbicides have extremely low anti-oxidant levels as well as the addition of toxic sprays because they don't have to fight back to save their lives. The same holds true in us, especially children and adolescents, when we expose ourselves to germs we boost our natural defenses. When we incessantly kill them with anti-bacterial soap or excessive hand washing, we increase our natural defenses. It should be noted that overuse of anti-bacterial soap kills not only the germs but our protective immune cells on the skin as well further decreasing our immune systems.
The best thing to do for a child is to decrease sugar intake (sugar directly decreases the absorption of vitamin C in the body), increase vegetable intake, forget the orange juice as a source of vitamin C, unless it is fresh squeezed with no additional ingredients. Orange juice is high in sugar and the vitamin C content is much less than a serving of fresh vegetables and fresh fruits. Also, be sure that your child goes to bed early, bathe them once per day and watch for warning signs of the flu so you can provide the appropriate care before the virus progresses.
Adults can prevent the cold/flu by getting appropriate rest, waking and rising at regular hours (rise between 5-7am and get to sleep between 9-10pm). Also, stress directly effects our immune systems; by managing stress we boost our immune systems; a balanced, healthy diet is crucial as well as decreased caffeine, alcohol and sugar intake. If you feel yourself coming down with a cold/flu, chop up a clove of raw garlic and add it to some warm water with 1/2 tsp raw honey and drink. This can be done up to 3 times per day. Also, there are some excellent herbs that help build the immune system such as elderberry, rose hips, echinacea, thyme and the herb licorice (not the candy!). You can combine these to make a tea and drink throughout the day.
Important Flu Facts:
Each year in the U.S., anywhere from 5-20% of the population gets the flu. The flu season lasts for about six weeks, usually sometime in late fall or early winter, taking three weeks to reach its peak, and then three weeks to subside. There are 200,000 flu-related hospitalizations per year and 36,000 deaths, with more than 60% (of hospitalizations) and 90% (of deaths) being in those over age 65. While most people recover on their own in 1-2 weeks, high risk groups include those with chronic health conditions, the elderly, and very young children. In addition, despite the hype of our last flu season, more than 99% of people infected with swine flu have recovered without needing medical treatment, and 70% of those hospitalized for it were those with underlying medical conditions.
Deciding on Vaccination:
Each year, the World Health Organization puts together a vaccine by determining the three most likely strains of flu to circulate in a given season (which must be decided at least six months in advance to produce enough vaccine in time), which are then incorporated into “the flu shot”, also known as the trivalent influenza vaccine (TIV). Additionally, there is the Live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV), which is administered as a nasal spray and contains the live virus (as opposed to the TIV, in which the virus is not alive). Though both can result in mild side effects, the main concern when considering these vaccines is the additives in the TIV. Perhaps most concerning is the addition of Thimerosal, a preservative often used in this vaccine which contains mercury. Few studies have examined the risks involved with exposure to this additive, though it is known that it is very toxic when inhaled, ingested or contacted via the skin. Thimerosal also crosses the blood-brain and placental barriers, and appears to accumulate in the kidneys and the central nervous system. The LAIV does not contain thimerosal, and so may be a safer choice, in particular for children. Some studies have also shown that the LAIV may be more effective in children than the TIV, though it is not safe for use in children under the age of two, or those over age 50. Both vaccines, however, work under the assumption that the World Health Organization was able to guess the correct strains of flu and include them in the vaccine. Otherwise, they will not be helpful for the current year’s flu season.
Taking all these facts into consideration, it is still a difficult decision whether or not vaccination is the right choice. If you are considering getting the TIV, it would at least be worth inquiring whether or not it contains thimerosal or other mercury preservatives before making a final decision. If you are additionally making a decision for your child, take into consideration their general level of exposure, their overall health, and in particular, consider using the LAIV if they are over two years. Also, keep in mind that a mother’s antibodies will protect a child who is breast-feeding regularly, which may help alleviate some of the concern for the very young. For any vaccine, but particularly with the LAIV, try not to get it when you are already sick. This could place an undue burden on your immune system and lead to more serious side-effects, especially in children
Recommendations for Cold/Flu Prevention:
- A recent study has shown that Vitamin D can be helpful in preventing the flu. Research suggests that adults can take up to 5,000-10,000 IU per day, and children can take up to 2000 IU per day (I recommend Biotics Research Corporation‘s Bio D Mulsion Forte, which can be purchased online).
- Some herbs you can look for in pill, syrup, or tincture form that specifically help with prevention and treatment of the flu include elderberry, andrographis paniculata, and Rhodiola rosea (There is a great elderberry syrup called Honey Gardens Apitherapy Honey Elderberry Syrup, which is suitable for children and adults
- Herb Pharm makes outstanding herbal tinctures. Excellent choices are Echinacea and Goldenseal extract and Immune Defense Tonic.
- Astragalus, Echinacea, and maitake and reishi mushroom all have great immune boosting function. (echinacea's healing powers are most prominent when taken just before a cold or at the very beginning of a cold, if you take it in the middle of a cold it won't be as potent but should help decrease the length of a cold).
- There are many pre-formulated tinctures which you can find at most any health food store that will contain some combination of the above mentioned herbs in one convenient mixture (Herb Pharm‘s Immune Defense Tonic or Children‘s Winter Health Compound being good examples).
- Decrease sugar intake (raw honey is not considered a sugar)
- Skip the chicken noodle soup and go for the vegetable soup (in Chinese medicine, chicken should be avoided during sickness as it will exacerbate symptoms). There's also a greater abundance in anti-oxidants, vitamins and phyto-chemicals in vegetable soup
- Decrease or omit for the time being caffiene, alcohol, and other stimulants
- Add a splash of brown rice vinegar to vegetables as it increases the absorption of vitamins and minerals that each vegetable has to offer
- Garlic, onions, leeks and pungent foods to expel the pathogen. However, avoid overly spicy.
- Avoid greasy, fatty and fried foods
- Protein builds our immune system. Obtain healthy sources of protein from legumes, fresh pacific fish and occasional grass fed anti-biotic free bison or beef, organic free-range eggs are a great choice as well
- Decrease intake of dairy. Dairy foods produce phlegm and should be avoided when sick
- Immune Boosting Tea: 2 parts elderberry, 2 parts echinacea, 1 part licorice, 1 part thyme, 2 parts peppermint
The above information is not to suggest that the flu is not a serious illness, however. Emergency warning signs of the flu include: difficulty breathing, pain or pressure in the abdomen or chest, confusion/delirium or sudden dizziness, or severe and persistent vomiting. In children, look out for fast or difficult breathing, a bluish color to the skin, difficulty waking up or interacting, dehydration, extreme irritability and not wanting to be held, fever accompanied by a rash, or symptoms that get better and then return with a fever and a cough.
*I am required to tell you not to take supplements or vitamins without first consulting a licensed health care professional. If you have questions, please ask. Also, the decision to vaccinate is solely up to you and your family.
Article by Heathar Shepard and Ashely Brown
Friday, August 13, 2010
What's Really Causing Early Puberty in Females?
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.
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.
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
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