BUBnCHUNK's HEALTH BAR

give aways!

2010-10-20T13:13:00.000-10:00

Hi everyone!! Since I ve slacked on this blog Ill offer all my blog readers a free tiny initial sterling silver pendant necklace when you purchase $25 or more from my shop! Offer ends October 31st. To take advantage of this offer please put "bubnchunk" in the message box at checkout.

Heres the link to my shop:

Dark Chocolate & Tulips

Happy Christmas shopping! Start now.

aloha and be well

2010-10-16T07:37:00.000-10:00

Ill admit from now until the new year I am busy making jewelry! My blog posts will be minimum but Ill be back soon! In the mean time please check out my hand stamped jewelry shop for cool custom items and an Antique Steampunk Collection to follow soon!

www.darckchocolatentulips.etsy.com

Aloha,

Jodi

not all SUGAR is the same.

2010-10-02T16:14:00.000-10:00

Just recently read an article from Dr. Mercola about High Fructose Corn Syrup and how the Corn Refiners Association has allowed manufacturers to use the name "corn sugar" instead. So if you see that ingredient on any of your food packaging, its the same as HFCS. It's very pathetic now days how processed our food has become. Part of what makes HFCS such an unhealthy product is that it is metabolized to fat in your body far more rapidly than any other sugar. Please take the time to read all your ingredients and learn what things you should avoid. Unless you buy it organic, corn itself if a highly genetically modified ingredient. Look for and avoid any foods with corn syrup, corn sugar and HFCS. There are a lot of products out there that have good pure ingredients in them and of course you will pay a higher price but that price for you and your family's health are worth it. Here's a little insight on the sugar 'fructose'

How Fructose Wrecks Your Health

Contrary to industry claims, your body does NOT recognize and treat all sugars the same.
HFCS is a highly processed product that contains similar amounts of unbound fructose and glucose.
Fructose and glucose are metabolized in very different ways in your body.
Glucose is metabolized in every cell of your body and is converted to blood glucose, while all fructose is metabolized in your liver, where it’s quickly converted to fat and cholesterol. (When a diet includes a large amount of fructose, it can therefore create fatty liver, and even cirrhosis.)
Sucrose, on the other hand, is a larger sugar molecule that is metabolized into glucose and fructose in your intestine.
Fructose is metabolized to fat in your body far more rapidly than any other sugar, and, because most fructose is consumed in liquid form (soda), its negative metabolic effects are further magnified.
Why does it turn to fat more readily than other sugar?
Most fats are formed in your liver, and when sugar enters your liver, it decides whether to store it, burn it or turn it into fat. However, researchers have discovered that fructose bypasses this process and turns directly into fat.

One of the Simplest Ways to Improve Your Health NOW!

I recommend that you avoid sugar as much as possible, particularly fructose in all its forms.
This is especially important if you are overweight or have diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure as fructose will clearly worsen all of these conditions.
However, I also realize we don’t live in a perfect world, and following rigid dietary guidelines is not always practical or even possible.
If you want to use a sweetener occasionally, this is what I recommend:
Use the herb stevia. My favorites are the flavored liquid bottles.
Use organic cane sugar in moderation.
Use organic raw honey in moderation, but remember, honey is also very high in fructose so it is not an ideal replacement.
Avoid ALL artificial sweeteners, which can damage your health even more quickly than fructose.
Avoid agave syrup since it is a highly processed sap that is almost all fructose. Your blood sugar will spike just as it would if you were consuming regular sugar or HFCS. Agave’s meteoric rise in popularity is due to another great marketing campaign, but any health benefits present in the original agave plant are eliminated during processing.
Avoid so-called energy drinks, sports drinks, and vitamin-enriched waters because they are loaded with sugar, sodium and chemical additives. Rehydrating with pure, fresh water is your best choice.

If you or your child is involved in athletics, I recommend you read my article Energy Rules for some great tips on how to optimize your child’s energy levels and physical performance through optimal nutrition.
As a last precaution, if you have high fasting insulin levels (anything above 3), high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or if you’re overweight, I strongly recommend avoiding ALL sweeteners, including stevia, until you’ve normalized your condition.
This is because any sweetener can decrease your insulin sensitivity, which as I’ve mentioned before, which drives up your risk of nearly every disease there is, from diabetes to cancer.

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER, BE WELL!!
Please take the time to read this entire article:

High Fructose Corn Syrup

slacking

2010-09-28T17:11:00.000-10:00

Sorry for slacking on the "health" posts. Ive been busy planning and having hand stamped jewelry parties. Its a great way to shop early for Christmas! If you want a cool custom gift that noone else will have check out my site: www.darkchocolatentulips.etsy.com for custom hand stamped sterling silver jewelry!!

be back soon with more posts!!

aloha

a conversation with Levi (Bub)

2010-09-22T16:55:00.000-10:00

I jotted down a conversation of question and answers I had with my 4 yr old son, (Levi)ticus.  Although this has nothing to do with health or food, this blog was inspired by my two boys Levi(Bub) & Ezra(Chunk) so I thought you would have fun reading this! 

Mom: "Where do babies come from"

Levi: "Pray to Jesus and He makes magic and thy come in your tummy" "also from outer space, the mainland, Disneyland, the wild or even the ocean!"

Mom: "How do the babies grow?"

Levi: "in your tummy, it gets fatter and the baby gets bigger"

Mom: "How do babies come out?"

Levi: "push and they POP out!"

Mom: "What are mommies for?"

Levi: "to spank, love, have fun, play games"

Mom: "What are daddies for?"

Levi: "to spank, have fun, be nice, tell you if you have to go to bed or not."

Mom: "How do you get money?"

Levi: "Jesus gives you money, He lets the man drop money on the ground and you can use that to buy food or a toy."

Mom: " How old do you think you have to be to drive a car?"

Levi: "big"

Mom: " What is big?"

Levi: "tall and someone who can watch someone else."

Mom: "How would you take care of someone if you were alone?"

Levi: "be nice, if there is a bad guy call a policeman and when he is done fighting the bad guy hell tell you to get a mom."

Hope you enjoyed my conversation with Levi!! I sure did:)

I love you Levi,

MOM

gluten & dairy free choco chip cookies

2010-09-22T14:05:00.000-10:00

we made some cookies today with what ingredients we did have in our kitchen! dont feel too bad about your kids having a little more than they usually get, the sugar is low and there is no dairy in them either! I guess the boys enjoyed them too!!

Here is the recipe I used:

2 ½ cups blanched almond flour -i used rice flour
½ teaspoon celtic sea salt
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ cup grapeseed oil-i used coconut oil
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ cup agave nectar or honey
1 cup dark chocolate chips 73% cacao
* I added some gluten free oats to it

Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl
Stir together wet ingredients in a smaller bowl
Mix wet ingredients into dry
Form ½ inch balls and press onto a parchment lined baking sheet
Bake at 350° for 7-10 minutes
Cool and serve

have a great day!
be well.

str-awesome!!! glass drinking straws.

2010-09-14T13:24:00.000-10:00

I discovered a great business started by a mom, what's so great about it, is that she is using her talents and love for what she does at the same time she contributes to saving the environment and also our health. Its called strawesome

Strawesome is a company that makes GLASS drinking straws!! Yes you read right, they are made of glass!! The only straws I have ever seen or heard of are always made of plastic, whether it be hard plastic or soft plastic, ITS PLASTIC!! Although nowdays companies are more aware of the dangers of chemicals used to make plastic and are going the safer route, glass is still always the better choice. I make smoothies almost everyday for my boys and straws that are used over and over get yucky, hard to wash and mangled!! They are so hard to clean I end up using them only once then throwing them away!! Plus, when plastic is tampered with there is more of a chance of chemicals leaching and it being hazardous for your health.
I decided to email the owner of Strawesome and see if she wouldn't mind me doing a review of her products for my blog and she said OK!! I just received my "Big Daddy" bent smoothie straw yesterday, my son and I used it this morning and LOVE it! They are so easy to wash and fun to use, plus when you purchase any product from them, their is a no break policy. If your straw breaks, it will be replaced!! You cannot go wrong with that!! Also look no further for corporate gifts or wedding favors, Strawesome does that also!!
Here is a pic of the bent smoothie straw that I get to use!

Here are some other things that are so great about strawesome:

"Strawesome is a Michigan-based green company(started and run by a mom) with a commitment to health and the environment. We offer fun, safe, and reusable glass drinking straws to people of all ages." ~strawesome.com

Why a Glass Straw?

"Concern about plastic usage is at an all-time high. Glass drinking straws are one way to limit your exposure to toxins from plastics.
If you use straws a lot think about how many plastic straws you throw in to a landfill every year. Including the instances you dine out at restaurants this number can be astronomical! Being green has never been so easy. Replace your disposable plastic straw with a glass straw and you can help save our planet from destruction.
Not only is it fun to drink from a glass straw but studies have shown that drinking from something more substantial than plastic may help you lose weight. The feeling of glass on your lips will help you lose weight on your hips!
Strive to consume more water? Make it fun with a glass straw.
Want to help your kids eat more fruits & vegetables? Make it fun with a green smoothie and a glass straw." ~strawesome.com

She offers so many different styles to choose from like

skinny straws

colored straws

decorative straws

kids size ones

and many more styles and colors to choose from!!

Along with me doing a review, the owner has also offered a FREE GIVEAWAY of one of her lovely glass straws to one of my readers, here is what you need to do to qualify:

-go to her site: www.strawesome.com and check out all her different products
-come back to my blog and leave a comment on any two of her products that you love the best and why and what would you use your straw the most for.
-those of you who are not followers of my blog, no prob just click on "follow" and leave a comment
-tell at least one friend about Strawesome, or post a link on your Facebook page.
-for those of you who receive my blog via email, you need to go on my site: bubnchunks health bar and click "follow" and leave a comment on my blog page. If you do not have a google account its really quick to sign up.
-I will choose a winner in two weeks! Last day to comment will be September 28, 2010.

Good luck and I hope you enjoyed reading about Strawesome! Strawesome is Awesome!!

BE WELL

homemade gluten-free granola.

2010-09-08T21:55:00.000-10:00

Found some gluten-free oats at my moms and decided to take a try at a granola recipe. It actually came out pretty darn good!! Gluten free oats have no wheat in them but taste the same as regular oats. I love granola, this one came out more on the chewy side, next recipe will be a crunchy one.
Granola is great for cereal, top on yogurt, acai bowls and just a great healthy snack, that is if you make it your self. You know exactly whats in it. Store bought granola does contain a lot of sugar and sometimes fat per cup so making your own, you can control that.

Heres the recipe:

2 cups certified gluten-free oats

1/4 cup flax seeds

1/4 cup sunflower seeds

1/4 cup shredded coconut

1/4 cup raisins-i left it out

1/4 cup dates-i left it out

1/4 cup mini chocolate chips

1/2 cup sliced almonds

1/2 cup organic natural crunchy peanut butter

1/2 cup honey-i used organic agave nectar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

5 tablespoons of butter (or use coconut oil for better shelf life)-i used coconut oil

I actually made a double batch so just double everything.

DIRECTIONS:

Combine all the dry ingredients into a large bowl. In a small saucepan, combine the peanut butter, honey, butter (coconut oil), and vanilla. Once the peanut butter mixture is combined, mix it with the dry ingredients until the oat mixture is moistened. Press the granola in a shallow pan lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30 minutes at 300 degrees. *The granola will get crispier and crunchier as it cools.

Cool for at least 20 minutes and store in a sealed container.

enjoy and BE WELL.

cacao.chocolatey good.

2010-09-05T14:51:00.000-10:00

The bean of the cacao plant is the nutritional flavorful source for all CHOCOLATE and COCOA products. Cacao contains a naturally rich supply of antioxidants, iron, magnesium and fiber. It is known to be one of the highest dietary sources of magnesium and possesses many other essential minerals in significant quantities.
You hear that dark chocolate is good for you, well, that is why. Actual chocolate candy is made of cacao and the darker it is and the more percent cacao it contains, the better for you. If you have not tried raw cacao nibs, they are very bitter tasting, eating them alone are not too enjoyable!! Add them to bars, smoothies, or use them as yogurt or icecream toppers.
I made a yummy and healthy smoothie today with cacao nibs in it, here's the recipe:

~chocolate almond milk
~frozen banana
~wheat germ
~scoop natural peanut ~butter
~cacao nibs

this is a great snack for anyone esp for kids in the morning or after school!!

Cacao nibs are available at any health food store, they run about $13 a bag but last quite a while. A little goes a long way!

Enjoy and BE WELL

flavor extracts

2010-09-01T17:21:00.001-10:00

I found this product while reading a blog and thought I'd share it. They are fruit/flavor extracts and if you are like me, watching how much sugar you consume or how much you give your kids, I think its pretty nifty!

Consuming fruits are good for you but you have to remember that fruits do have a lot of sugar. Yes, its natural sugar, but if you are insulin resistant or diabetic, too much fruits could be danger. I make smoothies for my boys almost everyday. I use a lot of berries, bananas, spirulina, chia seeds or throw in what ever I have. I seem to run out of bananas really quick and thought of trying one of these flavor extracts in banana flavor. They contain no sugar(bananas have a lot) and it will hopefully give it the same taste.

Please don't go out and substitute all your favorite fruits for extracts, fruits are good especially organically grown ones, but if you bake a lot or do a lot with fruit, try replacing one with one of these extracts. They have ones in chocolate, coffee and every other flavor you can think of!!

I'm definitely gonna pick me up a few soon:)

Here's the link, check them out!

http://www.medicineflower.com/flavorextracts.html

BE WELL.

natural baby wipes

2010-08-21T18:22:00.001-10:00

I just made some chemical free baby wipes today, thought I'd share this recipe:

1/4c castille soap
1/4c olive or almond oil
2cups water
plain paper towels
plastic container

mix all ingredients in the plastic container(baby wipes container)
cut paper towels in half and line in container
pull them out one by one as needed!

these ingredients will not irritate baby's skin and esp if your child has diaper rash often or eczema, this is the way to go!!

**this picture is just a picture of a brand of wipes that are chlorine-free that you can also buy.

happy wkend and BE WELL.

Also check out my shop on etsy: www.darkchocolatentulips.etsy.com

ecomom

2010-08-19T19:01:00.000-10:00

Came across this site while searching for organic baby food. Its a great site for moms to check out, everything in eco-friendly. Here are some cool things they have to shop for!! Have a great weekend all!!

I am definitely getting these organic baby food in a pouch, you can buy a spoon that screw onto the top of the pouch, so when you want to fee just screw on the spoon, squeeze and wallah!!! How clever, wish I knew about it with m first child!!

check out this chlorine-free bleach for stains

such a cool bio-degradable pocket stain cleanser

even organic chlorine-free diapers

as you can see this site has a lot to offer!! check it out
www.ecomom.com

be well

kid week...day 4-homemade talc-free baby powder

2010-08-16T17:18:00.000-10:00

Commercial baby powders have talc in them which can be inhaled by a baby/child and cause them to choke. Here is an easy recipe to make your own chemical free baby powder:

1 cup arrowroot powder
1 tbsp. dried chamomile
1tbsp. dried lavendar

You can grind the chamomile and lavendar in a clean coffee grinder or food processor.
If you dont have all these ingredients I just use plain corn starch in place of powder to help with the wetness!!

Have a great week!!

BE WELL...

healthy child. healthy home.

2010-08-13T15:50:00.000-10:00

I don't remember how I came across this site, but I am sooo glad i did! It's called healthy child and was started by a couple who lost their daughter due to cancer that was not hereditary, but from a pesticide that her mother was exposed to while pregnant! You can check out the site and read more about it and about how to make your homes and the things you expose your children to on a daily basis, more healthy and chemical free!
I am so excited to say I will host a "Healthy Home Party" in the upcoming months that will educate you on how to make better choices for you and your family. Great sample giveaways, food and also you will be able to make your own natural chemical-free cleaner!! I'll post more later about it as time draws near!
For now, check out their site:
http://healthychild.org/

happy learning and BE WELL

kid week...day 2-eco friendly lunch stuff.

2010-08-12T18:40:00.002-10:00

To go along with our kid week back to school ideas I have decided to check out some cool eco-friendly options for packing home lunches for kids!! Here are some cool sites I found:
1.
http://www.easylunchboxes.com

looks like a typical Tupperware container but the plastic is supposedly more durable and its BPA and phtalate free too.

3.another plastic-free lunch container I found is called lunchbots
http://www.lunchbots.com

4. heres a really cool bento style box made by goodbyn
http://www.growandmake.com/goodbyn-eco-friendly-lunch-box?source=googleps

I hope you check out these cool sites! The purpose of this blog is to educate you on healthier alternatives and also learn to re-use instead of create more waste like always using zip lock bags. These options are chemical free and fun for the kids to take to school and enjoy!!
Happy lunch making and BE WELL.

kid week...day 1:healthy snacks

2010-08-11T11:24:00.004-10:00

Since all the kiddos are going back to school I thought I'd blog on some healthy snacks for kids. When kids come home from school they are hungry!! The last time they probably ate was at 11 or 12 for lunch, especially if you have younger ones!! instead of tossing them a bag of chips or cookies here are some quick, easy and healthy snacks you can whip up for the kids.

plain or lightly salted rice cake with natural peanut butter (or almond butter)

mixed nuts are great especially if they are raw, you can actually a little of your own salt or honey and bake them for a little in the oven to add flavor. Nuts are a great source of protein

smoothies are great especially now while its hot out. they are also a great way to "add" other healthy things in without your children knowing!! For example i put spirulina(super green food), chia seeds(plant based omega 3),flax(another plant based omega three) and even powdered probiotics(good bacteria) in my smoothies for my kids and they love them!!

simple piece of fruit is great and sweet, I am surprised at how many of my son's preschool classmates that didnt eat much fruit!! Wow, so simple and so yummy too!

lastly i have a peanut, almond or sunbutter granola ball (picture to come) You can use any low sugar granola, mix it with a little natural nut butter and some honey or agave syrup and roll them into balls, put them in the refrigerator and when you are ready to eat one take them out and enjoy!!

happy new school year to you all and BE WELL

whats in toothpaste. is fluoride safe for us?

2010-08-03T17:10:00.001-10:00

Is flouride safe, and what can we use to substitute to prevent cavities? Check out this video I found about fluoride and its dangers.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSKToTFitd0

When our children are little the, Dr.s tell us not to use any toothpaste with fluoride in it because they dont know how to spit yet and it's not good for them to swallow it!!! If you think about it why isn't it safe and what makes it safe when they are older and for us as adults to then, swallow it??

So we go and buy a training toothpaste, such as this one in the picture because it has no fluoride in it but if you take a look at the ingredients there are also a bunch of "stuff" that is not good for them either. Here's some of whats in this Orajel tooth cleaner for kids:

water, sorbitol(chemical sugar substitute), propylene glycol, and a bunch of parabens(cancer causing). In other words....junk!!

So what can we use in place of fluoride for ourselves and our children that will be effective in preventing cavities? I use this brand for my kids, its called SPRY and they love it! Heres the ingredients in this one:

Purified water, Xylitol, Calcium glycerophosphate, Cellulose gum (thickening agent), and Grapefruit seed extract (as a preservative).

Spry has an entire line of products for adult and children available at health food stores! Heres some info on xylitol (main ingredient in spry products):

What is xylitol?

Xylitol is a sweetener that occurs naturally. It can be found, for instance, in berries, fruit, vegetables and mushrooms.

How does xylitol differ from other sweeterners?

Chemically speaking, xylitol is not actually a sugar, but a sugar alcohol. It differs from other sweeteners such as sorbitol, fructose and glucose because the xylitol molecule has five, instead of six, carbon atoms. Most bacterias in mouth are unable to make use of such sugars. This is one reason why xylitol helps prevent caries.

Xylitol is much sweeter than sorbitol, for instance. Assessed in terms of calories, its sweetening power is the same as that of sucrose. It is also similar to sucrose in its technical and nutritive properties. Xylitol is an important supplement in the preventation of dental caries, and everyone interested in healthy teeth should be familiar with its properties and effects.

In terms of dental health, it is good to increase the salivary flow rate as often as possible, i.e. to secrete what is called stimulated saliva. The faster the saliva flow, the greater its buffer capacity, that is, its power of resisting the drops in saliva pH and thus in plaque pH.

In stimulating saliva secretion xylitol increases the amount of saliva in the mouth. At the same time it increases saliva's initiate chemical capacity for reducing the harmful effects of bacteria.

Thanks for taking the time to read this, I just wanted to share some alternatives for you and your family's toothbrushing needs!!

BE WELL

Raw Food Challenge.

2010-07-31T18:42:00.000-10:00

The majority of my diet is pretty raw, I eat ALOT of dark green salads, veggies and fruits and love nuts and seeds but I have never dug deep and learned how to make any recipes. If you think about a raw food diet, it sounds like it could get pretty boring huh? Salads, fruits and more salad! But.. there are so many many amazing recipes to follow and so interesting to learn about also.

It can get very overwhelming but I did find a site that I really like with great easy to read info and lots of great recipes also. Here's the site: http://www.thebestofrawfood.com/

I plan to make my shopping list and get all my ducks in order before I start. Once I feel I have enough info and food I will start my 10 day challenge. I do want to make sure I get enough nutrition and eat a well balanced diet while doing this.

I will be keeping a blog of my challenge once I start so check back regularly!!

For those of you who are interested in going raw for a while, please check out this site!!

So Ill see ya soon!!

BE WELL!!

what's in YOUR bread?

2010-07-28T17:34:00.000-10:00

Bread is bread right? Wrong. Although I don't eat bread myself, my kids do and I use it a lot to make lunch for my son for school. I read ingredients in everything before I buy it and it doesn't surprise me that bread too, is full of crap!! Whole wheat, whole grain, well that doesn't mean a thing!!

All breads you buy have some sugar in it, but a lot of them contain high fructose corn syrup which is a processed form of sugar and not good for you. Also most breads contain at least 4 grams of sugar per slice, that's 8 grams of sugar just in the bread and if you make a sandwich that's not counting what's in between!! Crazy huh? You think you are eating healthy ordering a turkey sandwich on whole wheat bread huh, well not as healthy as you think!!

There are brands out there that have less sugar and even better, ones that are organic. I am lucky to be able to shop on base at the Commissary so I buy an organic brand called Rudy's and its very inexpensive, organic and way less sugar.

Of course the best way to eat bread is make it yourself from organic stoned ground whole wheat flour, but who does that regularly now days? There are brands out there that are a lot healthier and yes pricy, but worth it in the long run, especially if it's for our children. When it comes to them, for me, there is no hesitation!!

So READ what's in the food you are buying, and learn to make smarter, healthier choices for you and your family, start slow and before you know it, it will become a habit...a good one for life!!

BE WELL.

Here is a picture of the Rudy's brand organic bread I buy:

always sick? see what you can do.

2010-07-27T08:09:00.000-10:00

When you feel a cold coming on, or your kid's noses start running or they feel feverish, what is the first thing that you do?
For most people popping a cold and flu pill or giving kids Tylenol would be their first choice. Well, unfortunately that is not the best thing to do. When you are "sick" what your body is telling you is that your immune system just cant handle what's going on in your body. The Lord created our bodies to heal itself by giving it the proper nutrition and good supplements. You want to help your body not hinder it.

Here are some things that I always have in case of colds or fevers, I'll explain a little later:

garlic

olive oil

eucalyptus oil

apple cider vinegar

herbs

For example, when a child has a fever, that's telling you that his or her immune system is at work trying to fight a virus or bacteria. If you immediately use medicine to drop their fever, you are hindering their immune system at work. Fevers are good to a certain degree, they help build immunity and send you a message that something is going on in their body. On the other hand, if their fever is very high (over 102 degrees F) then I would do something to bring it down (lots of natural approaches to that, well talk about that later.) If their fever is still low and their are acting normal then its best to let it run its course.

You should always try your best to eat well and keep your immune system up so that viral or bacterial cold won't hit you often, but when they do, you have to do things to boost your immune system so that you recovery is quicker.

So what can you do to boost your immunity? Here are a few tips I suggest that will help you or your child to recover quicker:

lots of water
reduce sugar intake
no processed foods (anything with white flour-breads, crackers, rice, cakes etc..)
eats lots of fruits and veggies
soup is good that is made with veggies and organic chicken or fish in clear broths
-in other words, stay away from a lot of junks!!

back to the ingredients I keep on hand:

I always mix my eucalyptus oil with olive oil and rub in on their chest and back
I smash 3-4 garlic cloves and mix that with olive oil and rub it on their feet then cover their feet with socks. Also this is great to put in a dropper and drop into their ears if they tell you their ears hurt. Believe me, it can save you a trip to the Dr. and stop them from taking nasty antibiotics!
I always have herbs like echinacea on had and administer that to them about 3x per day
Force them to drink water throughout the day esp. when they have a fever also making popsicles with pure juice is great for them.
When your child has a fever you want to make sure they stay hydrated also to help them have a bowel movement, which in most cases will make their fevers go away. Alot of times their is an obstruction in their colons that will cause fevers.
Don't give them a lot of juice because it will spike their sugar levels which causes your immune system to drop, water is best or coconut juice and limited amounts of orange juice.
Apple cider vinegar is great for everything! I mix a tbsp. with water and drink it quick, it is very strong, but you can add some honey to it to make it easier to drink. I also use it as a toner for my face! I have not given any to my kids because its pretty strong.

Just remember that sugar, processed foods or anything that is not whole or natural will lower your immune system and stop you from recovering quicker. You want to boost your immunity as quickly as possible!! So before you reach for Tylenol or Benadryl, go for lots of water, fruits, veggies and good whole supplements!!

BE WELL...

coo-coo for coconuts!!

2010-07-24T17:57:00.000-10:00

For those of you who grew up on O'ahu and have gone to the Aloha Stadium swap meet I'm sure remember the "coconut man" who would sell coconuts from the back of his truck. We would get one every time!! He'd poke a hole in it so you could drink the coco water then when you were done, he'd take his big machete' and crack it open for you to eat the white flesh (my fav part)! For some reason I never enjoyed the water, but then again, being that young I never realized the health benefits of it!! I was impressed and amazed at researching all of its benefits! Thumbs up to coconuts!

Coconut water is the liquid that is taken from unripe coconuts. If coconuts get ripe the liquid that is inside will harden and become a part of the white flesh of the coconut, which is used to make coconut milk. So, picking the coconut while it is unripe will ensure that the body gets all the benefits of coconut water.

Drinking coconut water has many benefits. Coconut Water is naturally

Low in Carbs
99% Fat Free
Low in sugars
Coconut water is a natural isotonic beverage filled with immune boosting vitamins and nutrients. This healthy electrolyte drink has potassium, calcium, and magnesium.

When a coconut ripens the water inside hardens and forms the white flesh of the coconut. Coconut water is the liquid from young unripe coconuts before this process begins. For centuries locals in tropical regions have been drinking coconut water to boost their immune systems and gain vitality.
This nutrient rich beverage includes organic compounds with beneficial growth properties that can dramatically improve your health. Coconut water contains vitamins which help stop fatigue, chloride, cytokinins, and lauric acid. Completely free of chemicals it is safe to give to children and babies. Some pregnant women prefer drinking coconut water as a natural aid to help ease digestion problems during pregnancy. The lauric acid found in coconut water is the same as human breast milk.

Coconut water contains organic compounds possessing healthy growth promoting properties that have been known to help

Keep the body cool and at the proper temperature.
Orally re-hydrate your body, it is an all natural isotonic beverage.
Carry nutrients and oxygen to cells.
Naturally replenish your body's fluids after exercising.
Raise your metabolism.
Promote weight loss.
Boost your immune system.
Detoxify and fight viruses.
Cleanse your digestive tract.
Control diabetes.
Aid your body in fighting viruses that cause the flu, herpes, and AIDS.
Balance your PH and reduce risk of cancer.
Treat kidney and urethral stones.
Boost poor circulation.

Coconut Water Hydrates the Body

Coconut water is an isotonic solution which replaces the fluids and minerals that the body loses during physical activities. For this reason, many athletes and persons who work out regularly are encouraged to drink coconut water to replace all the minerals and fluid that they lose while working out. Even the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) attest to the benefits of drinking coconut water when it fought for a patent in 2000 to market coconut water as the next big sports drinks.

Coconut Water Relieves Urinary Problems

If you consume coconut water on a regular basis it can reduce urinary problems. People who suffer from strangury, polyutra and other urinary ailments drink coconut water to relieve their symptoms.

Coconut Water Kills Intestinal Worms

Drinking coconut water with one teaspoon of olive oil for three days will kill intestinal worms and clear the stomach of worms, which makes for better digestion.

Coconut Water Breaks up Kidney Stones

People who have kidney problems and are plagued by kidney stones should drink coconut water in addition to taking their medication. Drinking coconut water regularly helps to break up kidney stones making them easier to push out.

Coconut Water is Used in Blood Transfusion
Coconut water is almost identical to blood plasma and this makes it easy to use for blood transfusion. In cases of emergency coconut water has been used as an intravenous hydration fluid instead of the standard IV fluid. During World War II many wounded soldiers were saved in the Pacific because of emergency transfusion using coconut water as plasma.

Coconut Water is an Antibacterial

Coconut water contains monolaurin, an antiviral, antibacterial and antiprozoal monoglyceride that is used to kill lipid-coated viruses such as HIV, Herpes, cytomegalovirus, flu and various pathogenic bacteria.

Coconut Water Controls Vomiting

Coconut water is great at reducing vomiting. People who have typhoid, malaria, fevers or other ailments that are known to induce vomiting drink coconut water to settle the stomach. As such, coconut water is also a good thing to drink during a hangover.

Green or unripe coconuts can be found in Asian and West Indian markets. All coconuts that they sell are closed up to keep coconut water from losing its nutrients. So, if you plan on buying a coconut, you can ask someone to chop the coconut open or you can open it yourself at home and drink it.

*they do sell coconut water at health food stores, but most are flavored or sweetened in some way, your best bet get that young, unripe fresh and drink it fresh!

Enjoy, and I would love feedback for those of you who try it! BE WELL.

a new hype. chia seeds.

2010-07-16T15:22:00.000-10:00

Hi all, Im' back:) So, yes Im having a girl!!! Cant believe it since Im so used to boys, it will be a blessed and fun change too:)

So I decided to blog on some of the big hypes now like: Chia and Coconut water(next blog)

        Chia, is familiar to most of us as a seed used for the novelty of the Chia Pet™, clay        animals with sprouted Chia seeds covering their bodies. Little is known, however, of the        seeds tremendous nutritional value and medicinal properties. For centuries this tiny        little seed was used as a staple food by the Indians of the south west and Mexico. Known        as the running food, its use as a high energy endurance food has been recorded as far back        as the ancient Aztecs.

Here          are ten benefits to using chia seed in your life.  Chia          seeds are:

1. Nutritious.           Chia          seed provides ample calcium and protein to your tissues.  The          seeds are also rich in boron, which helps the body assimilate and use          calcium.  The nutrients also support proper brain functioning.

2. Water          loving.  The seed can soak up ten times its weight in water.  Do this fun          experiment.  Put one tablespoon of chia seed in a cup of water          and stir.  Wait a few hours and see what happens.  When          inside your body, the seeds help you stay hydrated longer, and retain          electrolytes in your bodily fluids.

3.           Easily digestible.  The shells are easily broken down, even when          swallowed whole.  This is an improvement over flax seed, which          have to be ground up to be digested properly.  If you eat flax          seed whole, it will just pass through.

4.          Concentrated.  If I could only take one cup of food for a few          days, I'd choose chia!  The food value per volume is simply          astounding.  You don't need much.

5.          Mild tasting.  Unlike some seeds, the flavor is very mild.           The mild taste makes it easy to put in sauces, smoothies, breads,          puddings, and whatever you want.  They won't really change the          taste, but will add to your nutrition!

6.          Energy enhancing.  The health pioneer Paul Bragg did an          experiment an endurance hike with friends.  They divided up into          a chia-eating group and another group, who ate whatever they          wanted.  The group eating only chia seeds finished the hike four          hours, twenty seven minutes before the others, most of whom didn't          even finish at all.

7.          Versatile.  The seeds can be used to replace less-healthy fat in          just about any recipe.  You can use them uncooked          in salad dressings, spreads, fruit shakes, ice cream, and just about          anything you want.  You can also add them to cookies, cakes,          muffins, and other baked goods.  I usually just mix in a couple          of teaspoons to my juice or water and drink them down!

8.          Slimming and trimming.  Yes, the seeds will help you lose weight,          for two reasons.  The first reason is that they are so filling          that you will eat less of other foods.  The second reason is that          they actually bulk up and cleanse your body of old "junk" in          your intestines.  

9.          Endurance enhancing.  Chia seeds are known as the "Indian          Running Food".  Also, the ancient Aztec warriors used chia          seed during their conquests.  I'm a runner, and I've used chia          seed to enhance stamina and endurance on my mountain runs, some of          which are several hours long!

10.          Regenerating.  After eating, the nutrients travel to the cells          very quickly due to the ease in digestion and assimilation.  Use          them when you want to build or regenerate healthy body tissue.

Chia seeds can be purchased at any health food store, they are a little pricey.My sister in law buys them online on Amazon, check that out too. I put them in oatmeal or on my salad. They do not have much taste, maybe a little nutty but do add a great crunch!!  

Hope you try them, well worth it!!

Have a great on and BE WELL, God Bless.

im still alive....

2010-06-04T16:32:00.000-10:00

okay so its been 2months since Ive blogged..
so heres my excuse,

I have been stricken with major major major morning sickness!!!! 24/7 Nausea and vomiting..sorry had to share that too!
It's been so hard for me to focus on anything!
Im slowly getting better and will be posting again soon!
Thanks for following and I promise you more good stuff!

PS
soon to find out if Ill have a 3rd boy or a little princess:)

keep you posted!!

HAPPY EASTER

2010-04-05T10:54:00.002-10:00

i know its the day after, but happy easter to all and remember the true meaning: he is risen!!
God Bless all of you and have a great week!

it doesn't have to be toxic!

2010-04-02T11:01:00.000-10:00

A Natural Alternative to Cleaning:

If you buy all your cleaning products from a typical Wal-mart or Target, I would say 99% of them contain harsh, toxic and danerous ingredients. This isn't necessary, especially if you have children! Why lock your cabinets, afraid of your toddler getting into them, hoping you will never have to call your local poison control center? Well, with natural ingredients for cleaners, you will have peace of mind that if they do get into something, it will not harm them. So, you are probably thinking, "if it's natural how will it kill germs". Well, there are many herbal products that are naturally occurring anti-bacterials, like:

garlic(topical and internal)
tea tree oil(topical)

Recently I have been having lunch with my son at his school a lot. There are about 5 children per table and when they are done eating they clean up and get a a book to wait for the others to finish up. In the mean time teachers are liberally spraying the tables with 409. The fact that the smell not only burns your nose hairs, but more importantly, the other children's food are being flavored with 409 airborne particles...yum! So I voiced my opinion (more so since my mom is one of the teachers:). My mom of course agreed and brought it up to the director.So now at least they will wait for all the kids to finish before they clean, but supposedly according to FDA, they have to use at least clorox and water!!! Okay....So, go figure, thats how much the FDA cares about our health(THEY DON'T) I will share this recipe for a great natural, non-toxic cleaner with her and with you:

2 cups water
2 cups white vinegar
1tsp tea tree oil
1tsp lavendar oil

yup that's it!! I just made some this morn and you know what else is great, it very cost effective. Water: free, white vinegar: couple bucks for a huge jar, oil: each one is about 8-10 bucks each, but last forever!!!

Oils can be purchases at any health food store or some of the local grocery stores now have a health section so you can check there too!!

Hope you enjoyed this and esp if you have little ones as I do, choose to switch to this more natural option!!
Save yourself and your children from all types of ailments, allergies and asthma by switching to non-toxic cleaning!!
If you are skeptical about making your own, Seventh Generation is a great brand to go with.
Live free, be well and HAPPY GOOD FRIDAY
Jesus died for us, take care of your bodies!!

feeling imbalanced?

2010-03-28T16:58:00.000-10:00

Poor us....women that is, we go through soo many changes in our bodies throughout our life time.

periods

pregnancy

post pardum

hormonal fluxes as we get older(and wiser I might add)

perimenopause and da da da...

MENOPAUSE

Lately I kinda wish I was menopause(knock on wood) due to all the hormonal fluxes caused by age, stress and what not!!! One day "on top of the world" then next day "down down down in the dumps"

All caused by those lovely hormonal fluxes...GREAT! But, of course without them, I would not have the most beautiful of children, so thank you Lord!!

Anyways lets cut to the chase..This is a natural product I have researched about for us(perimenopausal) women and those who are a little wiser:)(menopausers!!)

As we get older, our PROGESTERONE supplies dwindle. Estrogen can be very dominant and everything in the environment and food contains so much estrogen ie. plastics, non-organic foods, non-organic meats etc... So this creates an imbalance in our hormones because estrogen and progesterone should be in their perfectly balanced state for us to feel FABULOUS right? Right!! So before you run to your gyno for some BCP's and HRT(menopausers) Please educate yourselves on this first. It is ALWAYS better to put natural things into your body than man-made chemicals with nasty side effects. Pictured below is a brand I have used, there are so many just read the ingredients and make sure it is a natural Progesterone from wild yam and there are not parabens in them.

Here's a bit of interesting info on Natural Progesterone creams:

What Is A Hormone ?

Hormones are substances secreted into the bloodstream and are "produced by several glands and organs" in your body such as the ovaries, testes, thyroid, pancreas, pituitary, liver and others. They travel through the bloodstream from where they are produced to where they will interact with receptors to do the work for which they were intended. They "initiate reactions in the body," whereas enzymes usually help to facilitate them. Hormones regulate fluid retention, mineral metabolism, sexual function and libido, reproductive functions, growth and development, aging and numerous other functions.

What Is Progesterone ?

Natural Progesterone is an important hormone which is manufactured by the adrenal glands in men and the ovaries in women. Extra amounts are manufactured by the placenta during pregnancy. Progesterone is responsible for many bodily functions that are necessary for optimum health.

What Is Estrogen ?

Estrogen is a hormone produced in the body. Estrogen is to a woman what testosterone is to a man. However, women and men have some of each, but women have more. It's the basic female sex hormone and responsible for development of female characteristics. Estrogen is balanced in healthy individuals by progesterone.

What Are Xeno-Estrogens ?

These are synthetic compounds that occur as a result of our petrochemical industries and the environmental pollution. When ingested or exposed to our bodies, they will act like estrogen and can cause the same negative effects, such as the unopposed synthetic estrogen prescribed by physicians.

What Are Progestins ?

Progestins are synthetic compounds that are intended to mimic the actions of natural progesterone. However, they can actually cause numerous side effects and should be avoided at all cost.

What Is Hormonal Imbalance ?

Hormonal imbalance is a term that has become popular to describe an incorrect relationship that exists between levels of progesterone and estrogen. It will occur in nearly every instance synthetic hormones are prescribed by physicians.

Can You Explain Hormone Cycles ?

During the first half of a woman's monthly cycle her body is prepared for accepting a fertilized egg. As estrogen levels increase during the first half of the cycle, water and nutrient storage takes place. At this point, progesterone will begin to become the "dominant hormone" for the second half of the cycle. If fertilization occurs, progesterone levels increase to very high levels for several months. If fertilization does not occur, levels of both estrogen and progesterone lessen, but progesterone remains dominant.

What Is HRT ?

An abbreviation for... "Hormone Replacement Therapy." Several years ago it became quite popular for doctors to prescribe the hormone estrogen for menopausal symptoms in women. They thought they were replacing the hormones lost with the advent of menopause. But now contemporary physicians know that estrogen is not the hormone needing to be replaced. They are becoming increasingly aware that it is progesterone that is desperately in need of replacing. So, when synthetic estrogen is given, it actually aggravates the symptoms all the more. Later, synthetic estrogen products were formulated to include synthetic progestins to offset the bad effects of estrogen dominance. This vicious cycle is just now beginning to be understood with the advent of natural progesterone.

What Benefits Can I Expect ?

There is much evidence that men and especially women, suffer from reduced levels of progesterone. And keeping our progesterone levels to optimum levels can help fight depression & anxiety, increase sexual libido, prevent bone loss (osteoporosis), fight aging skin, wrinkles and brown spots, help oxygenation of cells, alleviate sleeplessness, control acne, reduce premenstrual discomforts, protect against breast fibroids, reduce hair thinning, reduce hot flashes etc.

Why Natural Progesterone Only ?

Synthetic progesterone (progestins) simply do not perform the same functions in the body. They can even lower your levels of progesterone. Natural progesterone is also the precursor to many other hormones in your body, so it is imperative that it be used in its natural form.

What About My Emotions ?

Most women notice a leveling off of their emotions when they get their progesterone levels up to where they should be, especially if they've been victim to estrogen dominance. Some women have actually reported a feeling of well-being or euphoria. Thus, it's been dubbed "the happy hormone."

What About Using Progesterone If I Am On Birth Control Pills ?

Birth control pills usually contain synthetic progestins. It is not recommended to take them together. Birth control pills have been known to cause many health problems when taken over a long period of time.

Do Post-Menopausal Or Hysterectomized Women Still Produce Hormones ?

The best way of describing a hysterectomy is this..."instant menopause." What is not really understood by most doctors is that the body continues to produce about 40% of the estrogen it once had been producing before menopause or hysterectomy, even though the ovaries have been removed. However, progesterone levels decrease more severely. The symptoms usually attributed to low estrogen are really due to a lack of progesterone. Women who are in this category seem to notice the benefits of natural progesterone much quicker than those who are still menstruating.

Can I Discontinue HRT ?

Many women now taking estrogen or estrogen combined with progestins are able to discontinue their HRT. Please consult with a medical professional before doing so. It is possible that if adequate natural progesterone levels were present, any needed estrogen could be made from it. Because progesterone sensitizes estrogen receptors, it makes sense to supplement with progesterone rather than estrogen. If you are taking hormone replacements and begin applying progesterone and do not lower estrogen dosages, you may experience symptoms of estrogen-dominance, so with your doctor's permission, lower your estrogen dose. Continue replacing your HRT with progesterone and after a while you will have discontinued your HRT.

How Can I Tell About My Progesterone Levels ?

A woman can usually tell by how she is feeling. However, blood or saliva testing is recommended. (Dr. John Lee recommends only the saliva test.)

What About Estrogen And Cancer ?

There is now no question that estrogen can be linked to certain cancers. For instance, it's been shown to contribute as much as a... 30% increase in breast cancer. It has also been shown that as many as two thirds of women taking estrogen can develop uterine lining abnormalities. Also, evidence is showing that estrogen use can be associated with cancer of the bladder, pancreas, cervix, endometrium and brain.

What About Osteoporosis ?

It is known that as much as 75% or more of women living in the United States will eventually develop osteoporosis. Fortunately, progesterone can stop it and even reverse already existing bone loss.

What About PMS ?

Estrogen dominance is usually associated with PMS. In the earlier parts of the cycle and just before it begins, progesterone levels are usually low while estrogen levels are beginning to increase. Applying progesterone is one sure way of balancing out the estrogen dominance. Numerous benefits can occur by using a progesterone cream during the month. It is usually recommended to use it each day, except the days of menses.

Should I Use Progesterone ?

It is highly recommended. Due to faulty diets, decreased nutrients in our foods and the stress that we experience, most women have reduced levels of all hormones, but especially progesterone. We are exposed to numerous xeno-estrogens (certain chemicals in the environment that have effects on the body similar to estrogen). Keep in mind that health problems arise from not only the estrogen itself, but from imbalance resulting from a deficiency in progesterone.

Estrogen Effects

Stimulates breasts cysts
Increases body fat storage
Salt and fluid retention
Depression and headaches
Interferes with thyroid hormone
Increases blood clotting and risk of stroke
Decreases libido (sex drive)
Impairs blood sugar control
Loss of zinc and retention of copper
Reduced oxygen level in all cells
Increased risk of endometrial cancer
Increased risk of breast cancer
Helps decrease bone loss slightly

Progesterone Effects

Protects against breast cysts
Helps use fat for energy and keep it off hips
Natural diuretic (water pill)
Natural anti-depressant
Facilitates thyroid hormone action
Normalizes blood clotting
Increases libido
Normalizes blood sugar levels
Normalizes zinc and copper levels
Restores proper cell oxygen levels
Prevents endometrial cancer
Helps prevent breast cancer
Increases bone building

a healthy grain, yummy too!

2010-03-25T15:31:00.001-10:00

My husband and I made some of this today for lunch and thought I'd share it with you. It is a healthy grain and if like me you are gluten free, its perfect because it is! We cooked ours then added basil, olive oil, mint and some lime!! Yummy!!

This can be purchased at Down to Earth or Costco, it is very inexpensive also and a little goes a long way!! It is a great substitute for rice.

enjoy

What is quinoa?

Quinoa Plant

This picture is used with permission from Quinoa Corporation.

Quinoa is pronounced as KEEN-WAH

Quinoa is 100% whole grain and is close to being a perfect food source in the balance of nutrition it provides. Technically it's not a grain but the seed of a leafy plant related to spinach. Quinoa is an excellent source of protein - 12% to 18%. According to The National Academy of Sciences, quinoa is "one of the best sources of protein in the vegetable kingdom". Quinoa contains the amino acid lysine which helps the body produce protein. It also helps the body process the protein in the quinoa and in other foods. The World Health Organization has rated the quality of protein in quinoa to be equivalent or superior to that found in milk products.

Quinoa is a source of all essential amino acids according to the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization. It's a great source of B vitamins containing niacin, thiamin and B6.It contains high levels of potassium and riboflavin. It's also good source of zinc, copper, and manganese, and magnesium. It contains folic acid and vitamin E.

Quinoa is a great food for people who must follow wheat-free/gluten-free diets because Quinoa doesn't contain gluten. Quinoa can be substituted for almost any other grain.

Quinoa has a nutty, smoky flavor and is less filling than other grains and pastas.

Quinoa has been one of the primary foods of the Inca Indians for more than 5,000 years. The Incas referred to Quinoa as "Mother Grain". Most quinoa is grown in the Andes in South America. Some quinoa is now being grown in the Colorado Rockies. The fact that quinoa will row in extremely poor soil together with its great nutritional value makes it a true super grain to feed the world.

Quinoa seed are covered with bitter tasting saponins that naturally repel insects and birds. Removing the saponins is a somewhat involved process but is already done for you when you buy a quality brand like Ancient Harvest Quinoa. It's believed that the bitter tasting saponins are what discouraged the Spanish from using Quinoa.

shhh its a secret!

2010-03-22T19:18:00.001-10:00

I wanted to learn more about foods to alkalize my body and came across this great article. Disease cannot live in a body that is alkaline, but in an acidic body it can. Here are some ways to start getting your body on a more "alkalizing" tract.

Top 10 Secrets To Alkalizing The Body For Radiant Health

By Dawn Sanders | On April 4, 2007 | In Health-and-Fitness | Rated

NEWS FLASH: 6 out of 10 Americans are overweight and over acidic!

Dr. Robert Young author of “The pH Miracle” has shown that fat is actually an over-acidification problem. What does that mean? The body creates fat cells to carry acids away from your vital organs, so these acids literally don't choke your organs to death. Fat is saving your life! Fat is actually a response from the body to an alarming over-acidic condition.

Here are some aspects regarding pH you may find useful. The body’s pH is measured on a scale of 0 – 14. Midrange at 7 is where the pH is balanced. Anything below 7 is acidic and a state where your body does not function as designed. Above 7 is called Alkaline. Alkaline is the state in which your body thrives. Disease cannot live in an alkaline environment.

With that said: when you remove acid toxins from your body, you will:

FLUSH Fat Fast resulting in easy weight loss
GAIN Muscle Mass
WATCH your skin glow
ENJOY maximum energy all day, everyday.

Here’s how to rid your body of that over-acidic state:

Alkalizing Secret #1 -- Drink Pure Alkaline Water – lots of it! Pure water meaning water that is filtered. At a minimum, you should be drinking 7 ounces of water for every 10 lbs of your body weight. So, if you weigh 130lbs, you need to drink a minimum of 91 ounces of pure water (that’s about 3 liters). Pure water meaning water that is filtered – the finest choice is an alkaline ionization unit (Jupiter is one of the finest on the market). If you don’t have this resource available, distilled water is a great choice with reverse osmosis coming next. Alkaline water means water with a pH over 7.5. Alkaline water adds oxygen to your water and helps to neutralize acids. A simple way to alkalize your water is with a dash of baking soda. There are also wonderful alkalizing agents you can purchase to buffer and alkalize the water.

(P.S. Avoid: coffee, black tea and sodas. – These drinks are highly acidic and do not count towards your daily water intake)

Alkalizing Secret #2 --- Eat Celery…. This is one of the most alkaline foods you can eat. It quickly neutralizes acids. Eat it before, after or during a meal. Celery is so high in water content that is also works as an excellent thirst quencher. Celery is excellent for digestion.

Alkalizing Secret #3 -- Eat Green Salads – forget the cheese and croutons! Always have a green salad on hand. Make a huge salad every 3 days and keep it in your fridge to make it very easy to alkalize your body. Some greens that have the highest water content are: cucumbers, lettuce, tomatoes, celery, broccoli, cabbage, spinach, cauliflower, carrots, and onions. A great dressing would be cold pressed extra virgin olive oil with some lemon juice. Keep this in a bowl in your fridge (tip: add cucumbers and tomatoes right before eating). Eat a HUGE salad with every meal!

Alkalizing Secret #4 - Switch from cow’s milk, to almond, soy, or rice milk. Cows milk has shown to produce an abundance of mucous in the human body. There are also few adults who can metabolize the protein in cow’s milk properly. This protein, casein, is what a cow’s metabolism needs for proper health, not for a human beings health. Also note that most dairy cows are injected with hormones such as the Bovine Growth Hormone to increase their milk production. Many of these hormones have potentially horrific side effects that can be passed on when consumed. Almond, soy and or rice milk are excellent alternatives to dairy. They are well worth trying out.

Alkalizing Secret #5 – Avoid artificial sweeteners! This includes: NutraSweet, Sucralose, Aspartame, Saccharin…. Not only are these acidic they also have other highly detrimental effects on the nervous system and neurological disease. Saccharin even tells you right on the package that it may cause cancer.

There is one natural sugar substitute that has had no reported side effects: Stevia.

Alkalizing Secret #6 - Eat a grapefruit in the morning wait 15 minutes before ingesting a carb or protein. Grapefruit, similar to lemons, is also alkalizing when ingested. Some people believe grapefruit to be a miracle fruit and I tend to support that group. Grapefruits have a very high water content and are highly alkalizing. Eat one first thing in the morning, and wait 15 minutes before eating a carbohydrate or protein (one or the other – do not mix). (The 15-minute suggestion is in accordance with proper food combining and allows your system to more easily digest. This recommendation applies to eating any fruit – fruit shouldn’t be combined with any other food type. Once eaten, wait 15 before consuming any other food type…ie: protein or carbohydrate).

Alkalizing Secret #7 - Eliminate consumption of red meat, pork, lamb…substitute chicken, turkey or fresh fish in small quantities. Red meats, pork and lamb are highly acidic a very low water content, not to mention being hard on the digestive system. If you must have meat, opt for chicken or turkey. Fresh wild fish is another excellent route to take.

Alkalizing Secret #8 - Reduce stress daily by adding yoga, tai chi, meditation, and proper breathing. An additional factor that adds to acidosis (acidic bodies) is stress. When the body moves into stress mode the digestive system shuts down and toxins cease to be eliminated. Thus the more toxins you keep in your system, the more the body will store them away (acids) in fat cells! Anything we can do to calm the mind/body will have a huge impact on alkalizing the body.

Alkalizing Secret #9 - Drink a top quality super green supplement. : Organic super greens are known to be some of the most nutrient dense foods on the planet. They infuse the body with easily absorbed vitamins, minerals, amino acids chlorophyll, enzymes, phytonutients and alkaline salts that help neutralize acids in the blood and tissues.

Alkalizing Secret #10 – Minimize/Avoid…. processed and refined foods. That means anything made with white flour and white sugar or food coloring. Our bodies were not designed to digest these chemicals and so it must do one of three things: 1. Eliminate them (if you are not hydrating properly this is very hard to do) or 2. Neutralize them by pulling alkaline buffers where it can – like from your bones leaching calcium, or from your blood, leaching iron. Or: 3. Park them away (in fat cells). Bottom line here – stay away from processed food as much as possible.

In Summary: If you will start out by going down the list of tips and add one secret each day, there’s a tremendous possibility that you will be amazed with what you experience. Simply increasing the amount and type of water you drink can and often will be a HUGE shift in how you feel. Let me tell you – it only gets better! And remember…the name of the game is progress not perfection. Be gentle with yourself – for many people, these secrets represent a huge life change. I urge you to educate yourself on pH balance with the acid/alkaline dance.

as it says, start small with one change at a time and before you know it, a healthy lifestyle will be just that..a lifestyle!! I love mine:)
be well and God Bless

chiropractic adjustments and your immune system

2010-03-16T19:09:00.000-10:00

Just last week I saw my chiropractor for an adjustment. Thought I'd give you a little bit of info on the benefits of a chiropractic adjustment and also how effective it can be in children.

The benefits of chiropractic care for your health are numerous.
Some of the many benefits include pain relief in your joints, back, or head. Others may include increased mobility, performance, balance, coordination or energy.

Our Creator God has given us all the power of health within our own bodies enabling your body to heal itself. It is not normal or healthy to have chronic pain or even the occasional cold or headache. A person can be unhealthy without any symptoms whatsoever. For example, 35% of all heart attacks happen without any prior symptoms or warning signs. Were those 35% healthy the day before their heart attack?

How Does Chiropractic Care Enhance
Your Immune System?

Since its inception, chiropractic has asserted that viruses and microbes don't threaten us all equally and that a healthy immune system easily repels most invaders. The immune system protects us from the flu, as well as any other infectious disease, and strives to get us well again when we do fall ill. Our immune system, like every other system in the body, is coordinated and controlled by the nervous system. For example, nerve cell endings in the skin and white blood cells of the immune system are in intimate contact, and chemicals secreted by the nerves can shut down immune system cells nearby.

Chiropractic corrects spinal abnormalities called vertebral subluxations that result in interference of the nervous system by placing pressure on nerves. Since the nervous system controls all functions of the body, including the immune system, chiropractic care can have a positive effect on immune function.

During an immune response, the brain and the immune system 'talk to each other' and this process is essential for maintaining homeostasis or balance in the body. If the Nervous System is not functioning properly, then the Immune System cannot function at 100%, thus the body becomes fertile ground for bacteria, viruses and illness

Children who have regular Chiropractic adjustments have fewer colds, ear infections and flu. "People who receive regular chiropractic adjustments have immune system competency that is 200% greater than those who don't." (Dr. Ron Pero. New York Preventative Medicine Institute and Environmental Health at NYU)

Even though you are not sick, your body may be acquiring misalignments of the spine (subluxations) that are interfering with your nervous system and thus your immune system. Regular chiropractic check-ups can help you to maintain a healthy immune system and stave off illnesses or allergies. A chiropractic adjustment will restore the balance of your nervous system and restore the flow of energy and information throughout the body, thus validating one of the great benefits of chiropractic care!

One visit is very affordable and worth it. So try one, feel better and be well..

i should be turning green.

2010-03-09T17:33:00.000-10:00

I eat greens like they are going out of syle, it's a good thing though and yes I really do love it:) Its also hard to find healthy salad dressings and if you do you will pay a pretty penny. Recently been reading on all things anti-inflammatory esp for my mom. So practically all dressings are made from either sunflower, canola or soybean oh and if your lucky theyll sneak in some PH...Partially Hydrogenated junk too! So Ive been buying ones without the PH and as low as sugar can get but still be enjoyable. BUT...all the canola, sunflower and soybean oils are inflammatory and as much salad as I eat everyday..yes its a lot, I will pay for it. So the other day I saw a gift my mom got from Pampered Chef. It was a salad dressing herb kit. I kinda tweeked the recipe and heres what I came up with:

2Tbsp olive oil--this is the only oil you want in dressings, very anti-inflammatory

2Tbsp apple cider vinegar-organic Braggs brand is the best

1Tbsp honey or agave syrup

shake some dried herbs in it..can be anything, heres what in the Pampered Chef Herb mix:

tumeric

lemon peel

garlic

red bell pepper

salt

sugar

This doesnt make alot so for every 2Tbsp of oil put two Tbsp of ACV(apple cider vinegar) and 1Tbsp honey or agave.

YUM...I have found a dressing that I love and you can control the amount of sugar in it too:)

So if you love salad you will love this dressing!! Try it:)

be well...

dangers of farmed fish.

2010-03-07T13:44:00.000-10:00

I dunno about you, but I LOVE salmon, but was what I have been eating really salmon? This is a great article on the dangers of farmed fish, not only salmon, but all farmed fish!! It's really sad nowadays, we have to spend extra money and time just to eat a descent meal, but its worth it and I hope it is to you too!

IF YOU’VE RECENTLY EATEN a piece of salmon sashimi or enjoyed a Sunday
brunch of lox on a bagel, chances are that your meal came from a fish farm off the west
coast of Canada or Chile—even if the label claimed it to be wild-caught. “So what?” you
might ask. Well, here’s what:
FARMED FISH CAN MAKE YOUR JOINTS HURT
Farm-raised fish often contain lower amounts of inflammation-fighting omega-3s
compared to truly wild-caught fish. And even when their omega-3 content is high, their
levels of pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids are disproportionally increased. This is
because farmed salmon are usually fed unhealthy amounts of soy pellets which increase
their content of pro-inflammatory omega-6 fats.
The bottom line is that farmed fish can actually make joint pain worse—and
represents a serious danger to your health and our environment. For the shocking truth
about the salmon industry and how to protect yourself, please read this excellent article:
www.bestlifeonline.com/cms/publish/health/The-Trouble-with-Salmon.php.

HOW SALMON FARMERS TRY TO FOOL YOU
Farmed salmon are also fed artificial color to make their otherwise unappealing
grayish flesh appear bright orange, like that of truly wild salmon. In the wild, salmon
owe their bright pink-to-orange color to the large amounts of krill and shrimp they eat,
which also accounts for their high omega-3 content. Recently, some states have passed
laws requiring that "color added" appear on labels of farmed salmon, so look at them
closely.
But labels aren’t always a guarantee. Neither are the exorbitantly high prices that
trick some consumers into believing that “if it costs more, it must be the real thing.”
(Wild Alaskan Chinook salmon sold for $45 a pound in 2008.) In a recent nationwide
sting operation, Consumer Reports found that 56% of salmon labeled "wild" in
supermarkets was actually farmed.
The stunning fact is that 90% of the fresh salmon sold in the US now comes from
a farm.   And most of these fish farms share the same deplorable conditions of other
animal feedlot operations: Overcrowding, disease contamination from pollutants and
over-medication with pesticides and antibiotics.
The situation is so bad that Chile, the world’s second largest salmon exporter,
used 718,000 pounds of antibiotics in 2008 and more than 850,000 pounds in 2007 to
contain the spread of a virus that is killing millions of its fish. When consumers eat this
fish, these residues contribute to the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in their bodies and
in our world.

SAVVY FISH SHOPPING TIPS
Because of unwise practices, the Atlantic and Norwegian wild salmon have
already disappeared. You can trust that any label bearing the name “Atlantic” salmon—
even if it specifically states that it is “wild”—is farmed, usually coming from Chile. But
most consumers don't have a clue when it comes to purchasing salmon. A recent survey
found that 90% don't know that Atlantic salmon is farm-raised; with the third believing
that Atlantic is the same as "wild."
Q Look for the country of origin label (COOL) on the package. Boycott salmon from
Canada, Chile and China until these ecological travesties are corrected. Question your
fish supplier closely about the origin of the fish you’re buying, as well as how it was
raised.

If you can afford it, purchase truly wild Alaskan salmon known as Chinook (also
called King). Sockeye is another good choice. Other good choices are Coho, chum and
pink (most of which is canned or frozen).

You don't have to be a gourmet cook to tell the difference between
farmed fish and wild-caught. It's pretty obvious with the first bite. Farmed salmon, for
instance, has a gooey, tasteless “fatty” flavor. Its flesh also loses its fake pink color when
cooked. Once your eye becomes trained, it’s easy to spot the phony fish in the store. The
next time you're in the supermarket hold a piece of wild Alaskan salmon next to a piece
that is labeled "farm-raised." You'll see differences.

Fish..very healthy for you, Farmed Fish..NOT

be well...

goldenseal.

2010-02-28T19:59:00.000-10:00

Since my baby has had pneumonia twice it has forced me to look for other options to stop this cold from getting into his lungs next time around. Herbs have been around for centuries..our grandparents and great grandparents used them to treat all ailments before antibiotics were even invented!! Herbs are natural( not man-made) from earth, medicinal and most importantly: God given. Each herb has sooo many uses and can become more powerful when paired or combined with other herbs. It gets overwhelming but worth educating yourself on!

I heard Goldenseal is a great expectorant and immune booster (along with tons of other uses) so I decided to give it a try. I found a tincture made with goldenseal and echinacea two great immune enhancers. Remember when using herbs for children make sure you specifically buy them for children because they are made with glycerin which is a very low glycemic sweetener, not alcohol. I liked the results...cough is gone and no nasty side effects!! Read up here on more great info on Goldenseal:

What is Goldenseal?

Other names: Yellow root, Orange root, Puccoon, Ground raspberry, Wild curcuma

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is one of the most popular herbs on the market today. It was traditionally used by Native Americans to treat skin disorders, digestive problems, liver conditions, diarrhea, and eye irritations. Goldenseal became part of early colonial medical care as the European settlers learned of it from the Iroquois and other tribes.

Goldenseal gained widespread popularity in the early 1800s due to its promotion by a charismatic herbalist named Samuel Thompson. Thompson believed goldenseal to be a magical cure for many conditions. Demand for this herb dramatically increased, until Thompson's system of medicine fell out of popularity.

Over the years, goldenseal has gone through periods of popularity. There is currently great demand for goldenseal which coupled with limited supply of wild-crafted sources, has driven the price of goldenseal up.

Goldenseal is available in nutritional supplement form. It is also available as a cream or ointment to heal skin wounds.

Goldenseal herbal tincture can be used as a mouthwash or gargle for mouth sores and sore throats. A tea made of goldenseal can also be used for this purpose

Why Do People Use Goldenseal?

Goldenseal is a bitter that stimulates the secretion and flow of bile, and can also be used as an expectorant. It also has strong activity against a variety of bacteria, yeast, and fungi, such as E. Coli and Candida.

Goldenseal is used for infections of the mucus membranes, including the mouth, sinuses, throat, the intestines, stomach, urinary tract and vagina.

Goldenseal is used for the following conditions:

minor wound healing
bladder infections
fungal infections of the skin
colds & flu
sinus and chest congestion

Goldenseal became the center of a myth that it could mask a positive drug screen. This false idea was part of a novel written by pharmacist and author John Uri Lloyd.

Side Effects and Safety

Goldenseal should not be taken by pregnant women. One of goldenseal's chief constituents, berberine, has been reported to cause uterine contractions and to increase levels of bilirubin. Goldenseal should not be used by people with high blood pressure. Those with heart conditions should only use goldenseal under the supervision of a health professional.

The safety of goldenseal in nursing women, children, and people with kidney and liver disease is unknown.

Side effects are rare, but include irritation of the mouth and throat, nausea, increased nervousness, and digestive problems. The liquid forms of goldenseal are yellow-orange and can stain.

Happy herb shopping and be well!!

stopping those free radicals. literally.

2010-02-22T22:19:00.000-10:00

You probably know that I normally don't promote many supplements. I believe supplements should complement your healthy diet and never serve as a replacement.

There's simply no substitute for eating healthy unprocessed whole foods.

However, there are a few supplements I consider highly beneficial for nearly all adults. One of these is Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10).

Co Q10 has been available for decades, but now there is an amazing new form of Co Q10 called ubiquinol.

Why is this so significant?

I believe one of the key elements in the aging process is free radical production. These free radicals are oxygen atoms deficient in electrons that become highly reactive. This in turn causes potential damage to your tissues and DNA.

If there was something you could do to limit the free radical production, then you could affect the aging process.*

One nutrient that can help you do just that is Co Q10. The problem is your body requires the reduced form of Co Q10 (ubiquinol) to help you limit free radical production.

Now, if you're less than 25 years old, this is not an issue -- your body is capable of converting Co Q10 from the oxidized to the reduced form. However, if you're older, your body becomes more and more challenged to convert the oxidized Co Q10 to ubiquinol.

Another very important reason for using a Co Q10 supplement is to help boost your body's cellular energy production.*

Co Q10 helps facilitate the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy "currency for all your cells.* But if you're over 25, you need the reduced form of Co Q10, ubiquinol, to efficiently do this.

So even if you do your best to eat wholesome unprocessed foods, your body's capability to produce Co Q10 and convert it to ubiquinol declines over time.*

Other benefits of CoQ10

Help you produce more energy for your cells*

Boost your heart health*

Act as an antioxidant to help protect you from free radicals*

Help you reduce the signs of normal aging*

Help you maintain blood pressure levels within the normal range*

Provide a boost to your immune system*

Support your nervous system*

Remember, if you're under 25 years of age, I recommend the regular Co Q10 supplement. If you're over 25, you should use the reduced ubiquinol formula to help you absorb the Co Q10 you need*.

Also, not all supplements are the same. You get what you pay for. For the most of your supplement especially if you take a mulit, go for one that is made from whole food sources. Two great brands are:

New Chapter and Raw

Two ingredients to AVOID in supplements are: magnesium stearate and titanium dioxide.

Happy shopping and be well.

internal cleansing goes way back.

2010-02-20T20:49:00.003-10:00

By internal cleansing I am talking about something called BENTONITE CLAY.

this clay has been used for centuries by the Indians for all types of healing. This clay can be taken internally or used externally also. If you are thinking of doing a cleanse, bentonite clay will be worth the try and is fairly inexpensive.

Sodium Bentonite

Bentonite, also referred to as Montmorillonite, is one of the most effective and powerful healing clays used to treat both internal and external maladies. Bentonite can be used as a clay poultice, mud pack or in the bath, and in skin care recipes. Internally, it can be added to water or glazed upon food to help those with sensitive palates. It has a very fine, velveteen feel and is odorless and non-staining.

Its highest power lies in the ability to absorb toxins, impurities, heavy metals and other internal contaminants. Bentonite clay's structure assists it in attracting and soaking up poisons on its exterior wall and then slowly drawing them into the interior center of the clay where they are held in a sort of repository. To state it another way, Bentonite is swelling clay. When it becomes mixed with water it rapidly swells open like a highly porous sponge. From here the toxins are drawn into the sponge through electrical attraction and once there, they are bound.

For internal use, start with a teaspoon mixed thoroughly in 8 oz. of water. After a few days or so, you may want to increase the amount of clay to a tablespoon. It is best taken on an empty stomach and not in combination with other herbs, vitamins, or medication.

A clay mask made from Bentonite draws excess oils and debris to the surface of your skin, boosts circulation to tighten the skin and stimulate blood flow, and whisks away dead skin cells that can clog pores.

To control itching: A simple “mud pack” made with bentonite clay and enough water to create a thick goo can help control the itch and dry up blisters, herbalists say. Spread the clay over the affected area and let air dry. Keep it on until the clay wears off or gets itchy. Wash off the residue.

For first-aid: To make a healing pack, mix Bentonite clay or baking soda and oatmeal with water and an anti-infection herb (such as garlic, thyme, or calendula) or an herbal tincture. Apply to pimples, boils, or wounds.

From Our Reading and/or Experience...

Do not use metal utensils or containers to stir or store Bentonite clay. Contact with metal may decrease the clay's potency.
The internal use of Bentonite clay is an excellent and simple way to do an effective cleanse. Among other benefits, it can reduce body odor, skin blemishes, and digestive track issues of all sorts.
The clay can be stirred into water, juice or any other beverage of your choice. It can also be sprinkled on foods or encapsulated.
We keep it on hand, among other items, to use internally and externally in case of snake bites or any other kind of poisoning.
Bentonite clay can be used to benefit anyone: men, women (including before, during or after pregnancy, and nursing), children, and animals.
It can be used as often as you would like, and in any way you choose. Just remember to consume LOTS of water while using it internally.

Detoxing the body of wasted build up regularly is a must if you wish to rid your body of excess toxins and prevent illnesses. All disease starts from the colon so using this clay will help rid your colon of bacteria that can cause all sorts of problems in the future!!

Who would have thought...CLAY...go for it... BE WELL!!

I am starting tonight:)

This clay can be taken in powder form, capsules or liquid. for a reputable source that I purchase from all the time, plus it is a Christian family run business..go to www.bulkherbstore.com

got milk? maybe you dont want to.

2010-02-18T11:15:00.002-10:00

PASTEURIZATION...this is what is done in milk.

There is no substitute for clean, raw milk as a food, so far as children are concerned. Science has not yet succeeded in providing, in the pasteurized variety, those essential qualities that are the only real foundation for a healthy child

If we are to be compelled to drink pasteurized milk, we should at least understand what pasteurization means. It set out to accomplish two things: -Destruction of certain disease-carrying germs and the prevention of souring milk. These results are obtained by keeping the milk at a temperature of 145 degrees to 150 degrees F for half an hour, at least, and then

-reducing the temperature to not more than 55 degrees F.

It is undoubtedly beneficial to destroy dangerous germs, but pasteurization does more than this--it kills off harmless and useful germs alike, and by subjecting the milk to high temperatures, destroys some nutritious constituents.

Pasteurization destroys enzymes, diminishes vitamin content, denatures fragile milk proteins, destroys vitamin B12 and vitamin B6, kills beneficial bacteria, promotes pathogens and is associated with allergies, increased tooth decay, colic in infants, growth problems in children, osteoporosis, arthritis, heart disease and cancer.
Calves fed pasteurized milk die before maturity.
Raw milk sours naturally, but pasteurized milk turns putrid and processors must remove slime and pus from pasteurized milk by a process of centrifugal clarification. Inspection of dairy herds for disease is not required for pasteurized milk. The practice of heating milk to kill germs was instituted in the 20s to combat TB, infant diarrhea, undulant fever and other diseases caused by poor animal nutrition and dirty production methods.
But times have changed and modern stainless steel tanks, milking machines, refrigerated trucks and inspection methods make pasteurization absolutely unnecessary for public protection. Clean raw milk from certified healthy cows is available commercially in several states and may be bought directly from the farm in many more. By executive order, it is forbidden to transport raw milk across state lines.

So don’t waste your money on "organic" milk anymore. This is a waste of your resources. Redirect your energy to find real raw milk sources. Ideally, you can find a local farmer who will be willing to sell this to you. If you find one you will want to encourage him to consider restricting grains from the cow’s feed to improve the quality of the milk.
If you are unable to find a local dairy farmer who will cooperate with you please try this link: http://www.realmilk.com/where.html.

So I checked out this site and unfortunately there are no raw milk sources in Hawaii!! So I guess Ill have to do a little more research. I know for a fact that the health food stores sell goats milk, which actually is better than cows and easily absorbed. I personally only use rice milk, almond milk and sometimes soy.
If you are worried about calcium, take a good WHOLE FOOD based calcium supplement and eat lots of dark green veggies which are high in calcium.
So, before you go buy a gallon of yummy(NOT) milk...seriously, think again. It has been linked to sooo many allergies, including chronic ear infections.

Make good choices for you and your family..BE WELL.

my day.

2010-02-18T11:01:00.000-10:00

I know its way past..but February 6th was my birthday!! I love my pedicure and lunch time with great friends, I had a blast:)
Also, today my parents left for the mainland..which left me alone with my two boys..hence the "slackfulness" (if I may) on the posts!! Sorry

Next post is a good one and very very informational...well, they all are, but this one is for everyone big or small, so dont skimp..read up and beware!!

stress simply put.

2010-02-05T20:29:00.000-10:00

What is stress?

The Body’s Stress Response

When you perceive a threat, your nervous system responds by releasing a flood of stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones rouse the body for emergency action.
Your heart pounds faster, muscles tighten, blood pressure rises, breath quickens, and your senses become sharper. These physical changes increase your strength and stamina, speed your reaction time, and enhance your focus – preparing you to either fight or flee from the danger at hand.

Stress is a normal physical response to events that make you feel threatened or upset your balance in some way. When you sense danger – whether it’s real or imagined – the body's defenses kick into high gear in a rapid, automatic process known as the “fight-or-flight” reaction, or the stress response.

The stress response is the body’s way of protecting you. When working properly, it helps you stay focused, energetic, and alert. In emergency situations, stress can save your life – giving you extra strength to defend yourself, for example, or spurring you to slam on the brakes to avoid an accident.

The stress response also helps you rise to meet challenges. Stress is what keeps you on your toes during a presentation at work, sharpens your concentration when you’re attempting the game-winning free throw, or drives you to study for an exam when you'd rather be watching TV.

But beyond a certain point, stress stops being helpful and starts causing major damage to your health, your mood, your productivity, your relationships, and your quality of life.

Stress Warning Signs and Symptoms
Cognitive Symptoms	Emotional Symptoms
Memory problems Inability to concentrate Poor judgment Seeing only the negative Anxious or racing thoughts Constant worrying	Moodiness Irritability or short temper Agitation, inability to relax Feeling overwhelmed Sense of loneliness and isolation Depression or general unhappiness
Physical Symptoms	Behavioral Symptoms
Aches and pains Diarrhea or constipation Nausea, dizziness Chest pain, rapid heartbeat Loss of sex drive Frequent colds	Eating more or less Sleeping too much or too little Isolating yourself from others Procrastinating or neglecting responsibilities Using alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs to relax Nervous habits (e.g. nail biting, pacing)

Thank goodness I am a Christian and I have learned to give all things to God!! "Cast your care upon Him, for He cares for you." 1Peter

This clearly doesnt mean I never have stress...oh no! I am learning day by day how to deal with stressful things that come my way better and better!

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.."

God bless and no stress!!

sugar: a very well hidden culprit.

2010-01-27T21:30:00.008-10:00

I know this is a ton of reading, but take some time it is very valuable info on sugar and all it's different names. Now days everything has some type of hidden sugar in it, but what is what and what is okay to consume? Read on and find out:

What if you were to discover that this toxic substance had been dumped into your food in gradually increasing quantities for the last thirty years, with the full knowledge and blessings of the American Heart Association, the American Medical Association, the USDA and the FDA?

Would you be angry?

I wish I could tell you that this is just a dramatic plot from some fiction novel, but it’s actually a shocking reality.

The substance dealing such a crushing blow to your health and responsible for many, if not most of the chronic diseases that are so rampant in our society, is sugar -- and more specifically, fructose.

We now know without a doubt that sugar in your food, in all its myriad of forms, is taking a devastating toll on the health of this nation.

High Fructose Corn Syrup Has Only Been Around One Generation!

HFCS was invented in 1966 in Japan and introduced to the American market in 1975. Food and beverage manufacturers began switching their sweeteners from sucrose (table sugar) to corn syrup when they discovered that high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) was far cheaper to make -- sucrose costs about three times as much as HFCS.

HFCS is also about 20 times sweeter than table sugar. So it was expected that less sweetener would be needed per product. Instead, the amount of sweeteners has steadily risen.

The switch from sugar to fructose drastically altered the average American diet. The statistics are beyond alarming:

Corn syrup is now found in every type of processed, pre-packaged food you can think of. In fact, the use of HFCS in the U.S. diet increased by a whopping 10,673 percent between 1970 and 2005, according to a report by the USDA[i].
The current annual consumption of sugar is 141 pounds per person, and 63 pounds of that is HFCS.
Adolescents are taking in 73 grams per day of fructose, mostly from soft drinks and juice drinks -- and 12 percent of their total caloric intake is from fructose alone.
In the past century, fructose consumption has increased 5-fold.
Processed foods account for more than 90 percent of the money Americans spend on meals.

Glucose is the form of energy you were designed to run on. Every cell in your body, every bacterium -- and in fact, every living thing on the Earth -- uses glucose for energy.

Fructose is not the same molecule. Glucose is a 6-member ring, but fructose is a 5-member ring. Sucrose (table sugar) is 50 percent glucose and 50 percent fructose, and HFCS is 42-55 percent fructose.

It isn’t that fructose itself is bad -- it is the MASSIVE DOSES you’re exposed to that make it dangerous.

I. Glucose Metabolism

Glucose is the basic fuel for living organisms, from bacteria to humans, and is the primary energy source for your brain. It is a product of photosynthesis and is found in rice, corn and other grains, and bread and pasta.
Once you take in glucose from a meal -- like, say, from two slices of bread -- 80 percent of it is used by all of the organs of your body -- every single cell. The remaining 20 percent goes to your liver to be metabolized and stored.
The following is what happens to that 20 percent, once it reaches your liver:
Whatever glucose your body doesn’t need immediately gets converted into glycogen for storage in the liver. Glycogen is your body’s non-toxic short-term energy storage package, where it can be easily converted to energy when you need it. Your liver has no limit to how much glycogen it can store without detrimental effects. (That is what athletes take advantage of when they “carbo-load.”)

A small amount of pyruvate is produced, which ends up being converted to ATP (the chemical storage form of energy) and carbon dioxide. An even smaller quantity of citrate is produced from this process through the “citrate shuttle,” which ends up as VLDL (very low density lipoproteins, the bad ones) in a process known as de novo lipogenesis -- but we’re talking about a very small amount (less than one calorie from two slices of bread).

Insulin is released by your pancreas in response to the rise in blood glucose (i.e., blood sugar), which helps the glucose get into your cells. Without insulin, your cells would not be able to process the glucose and therefore would have no energy for movement, growth, repair, or other functions. Insulin is key to unlocking the door of the cell to allow the glucose to be transferred from the bloodstream into the cell.

When you consume 120 calories of glucose, less than one calorie contributes to adverse metabolic outcomes.

This is all very normal, and it’s how you were designed to operate.

III. Fructose Metabolism

Now we finally come to fructose.

When you consume fructose, 100 percent of it goes directly to your liver to be metabolized. This is why it is a hepatotoxin -- it overloads the liver. Fructose metabolism creates the following adverse effects:

Fructose is immediately converted to fructose-1-phosphate (F1P), depleting your liver cells of phosphates.
The above process produces waste products in the form of uric acid. Uric acid blocks an enzyme that makes nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is your body’s natural blood pressure regulator, so when it is blocked, your blood pressure rises -- leading to hypertension. Elevated uric acid levels can also cause gout.
Almost all of the F1P is turned into pyruvate, ending up as citrate, which results in de novo lipogenesis, the end products of which are FFAs, VLDLs, and triglycerides. The result -- hyperlipidemia.
Fructose stimulates g-3-p (activated glycerol), which you will recall is the crucial molecule for turning FFAs into triglycerides within the fat cells. Remember, the rate of deposition of fat into fat cells is dependent on the presence of g-3-p. The more g-3-p that is available, the more fat is deposited. Fructose is the carbohydrate most efficiently converted into g-3-p11. In other words, fructose is the most lipophilic carbohydrate.
FFAs are exported from the liver and taken up in skeletal muscle, causing skeletal muscle insulin resistance.
Some of the FFAs stay in the liver, leading to fat droplet accumulation, hepatic insulin resistance and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)[xiii][xiv].
Insulin resistance stresses the pancreas, which pumps out more insulin in response to rising blood sugar as your cells are unable to get the sugar out of your bloodstream, and this can progress to type II diabetes.
As with a bolus dose of ethanol, a 120-calorie bolus of fructose results in a large fraction (again, about 40 calories) that directly contributes to disease.
If you want to use a sweetener occasionally, this is what I recommend:
Use the herb stevia
Use organic cane sugar in moderation
Use organic raw honey in moderation

Avoid ALL artificial sweeteners, which can damage your health even more quickly than HFCS.

And I don’t recommend agave syrup since it is a highly processed sap that is almost all fructose. Your blood sugar will spike just as it would if you were consuming regular sugar or HFCS. Agave has gained meteoric popularity due to a great marketing campaign, but any health benefits present in the original agave plant are processed away.(Mercola 2010)

Wow! so what can we eat? Well, as everything else moderation is always key, but clearly try to as much as possible stay away from HFCS and Corn Syrup which is highly processed and not worth consumption!!

be sweet, healthily...be well.

baby skin care. is it really "gentle"

2010-01-23T13:53:00.016-10:00

As long as it says "gentle" and "made for babies" means it should be okay, right? WRONG!!

Johnson & Johnson

Aveeno

Etc....

Just because it says "gentle" or "baby" does NOT mean it is safe. So many of these so called safe brands made just for babies turn out to be, well, not so safe at all. The bottom line is to READ THE INGREDIENTS!! I cannot stress that more! Many of these items contain harmful chemicals (that I have mentioned further on in this article that you should avoid), so keep reading. Your babies skin is the largest organ of their (and our) body. What you put on their little bodies is easily absorbed into their blood stream instantly. Over time these ingredients can cause allergies, cancer and may other sicknesses. Now days many of our regular grocery or drug stores have natural healthy sections available. You will pay a higher price tag, but isn't it worth it? I mean, this is your child, your own flesh. I'm guessing you want the best for them!! I'm sure a lot of your pediatricians have recommended Cetaphil for you baby's rash, or eczema...well, go read the ingredients in that, nothing gentle! I love my boys' doctor, but just because it is from a doctor does not mean it is safe. Do your own homework and read, read, read!!

Other health food stores like Down To Earth or Whole Foods have tons of options for natural baby skin care. Even though it is from a health food store, be sure to still read the ingredients because there still may be ingredients in there you don't want. Here are some brands I like and use that contain great natural, chemical-free goodness!!

~Burt's Bees

~Jason

~Avalon Organics

~Healthy Times

I love Burt's Bees products. They have a shampoo/body wash I use for my boys and it smells DELICIOUS!! I also use the baby body lotion!

Here is a list of ingredients to avoid when selecting baby skin care:

If you can't pronounce or understand the ingredients, keep looking.
If the manufacturer doesn't bother to put it in (simple terms) it is likely something included to benefit their bottom line, not your baby's bottom.
In most cases, these mystery ingredients preserve the shelf life and make the product look and smell more appealing so you'll want to buy it.
Mineral oil/Petrolatum/paraffin are byproducts of crude oil, and they are cheap to use.
Baby oil is 100% mineral oil. It holds in moisture, but prevents your body from releasing unwanted toxins. Mineral oil can also block the body's absorption of essential vitamins and nutrients.
Parabens (methyl, propyl, butyl and ethyl).
These preservatives and antibacterials are used in shampoos, creams and baby lotions to extend product shelf life. They are petroleum-based and can cause dermatitis and other allergic reactions.
Parabens are thought to alter estrogen levels and the Environmental Protection Agency issued a report expressing concern about parabens showing up in our sewage systems (from humans) and posing a risk to aquatic life.
Talc powder.
The Cancer Coalition states that talc is a toxic carcinogen that can cause ovarian and lung cancer with repeated exposure. It is also used in soaps, deodorants and in food processing.
Phthalates
These have been in the news lately. They are found in fragrances in shampoos, lotions and powders, but their true intention is to make plastic soft. They can leach out of plastics so why would anyone want them on their skin?
According to TIME.com, studies have been done on phthalates in urine from babies' diapers. They are toxic, carcinogenic and have been linked to infertility.
Note that companies are not required to list the ingredients of fragrances, so the product could have them and they not show up on the label.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Ammonium Lauryl Suflfate are foaming agents found in many shampoos and hair conditioners.
They can be disguised in labels as "comes from coconut" You can find these in other garage floor cleaners and engine de-greasers. They have been linked to eye injury as well as cell membrane and immune system damage.
Isopropyl alcohol SD 40.
It is not only drying, but it strips the skin of natural acids, making the skin more vulnerable to bacteria, molds and viruses. SD 40 comes from propylene and may promote brown spots and premature aging of skin.
Glycol is used as a humectant.
It comes in several forms and is carcinogenic and mutagenic.
FD&C Color Pigments are synthetic colors made from coal tar.
They contain heavy metal salts that deposit toxins in the skin. Animal studies have shown them to be carcinogenic (causes cancer).
Here are some more ingredients to avoid.
Aerosol propellants
Aluminum by-products
Benzoates
Diethanolamine (DEA, TEA)
DMDM hydantoin or MDM (a form of formaldehyde)
Flouride
Nitrates, nitrosamins and sulfur compounds
Quaternium 15 (also a form of formaldehyde)
Toluene
Triclosan
1, 4-Dioxane (a known carcinogen)

food and inflammation.

2010-01-19T18:25:00.002-10:00

A healthy diet, avoiding inflammatory foods is very different from the typical American diet and can be a very effective treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis for many people.

Often times people reduce the intake of inflammatory foods but fail to recognize all the hidden places, generally in processed foods, that these foods are being consumed.

The food we eat each day creates the environment of our digestive tract. When we are consuming foods that our body does not tolerate well our digestion will become “sluggish” leading to any number of health challenges.

Worse yet is when we are eating substances that the body does not recognize as “food”. The body does not know what to do this these substances, thereby putting a stress on all of the body’s organs.

The goal of avoiding certain foods is to reduce exposure to allergens, improve our digestion and thereby improve over all wellness and reduce inflammation throughout the body.

The following is a list of inflammatory foods that everyone could consider either avoiding completely or limiting to achieve maximum health. Click on any of the links below to learn more about each food.

DAIRY>(All pasteurized dairy products) - AVOID

REFINED SUGARS(white sugar, brown sugar, confectioners sugar, corn syrup, processed corn fructose, turbinado sugar, etc) - AVOID

CHEMICAL SUGAR SWEETENERS - AVOID

MSG (Monosodium Glutamate or Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein) - AVOID

ALCOHOL - AVOID

CAFFEINE - AVOID

RED MEAT - Reduce or Avoid

PROCESSED FOODS - Reduce or Avoid

COMMON TABLE SALT - AVOID

What is inflammation?

Inflammation is the first response of the immune system to infection or irritation.We are all familiar with the classic signs of inflammation (swelling, redness and pain) that occur when we hurt ourselves or have some kind of infection.However recent research¹ has shown that eating the wrong foods can cause inflammation within our bodies.In fact being overweight can itself be the cause of inflammation.

Body fat causes inflammation

The fatty tissues of the body secrete hormones that regulate the immune system and inflammation,but in the case of an overweight individual this can become out of control.Three of the hormones that play a role in metabolism are leptin, resistin and adiponectin.

Leptin is involved in appetite control.
Resistin is a hormone that increases insulin resistance.
Adiponectin lowers the blood sugar by making your body more insulin sensitive.

The fact that it is the fatty tissue that produces these hormones makes the fat self regulating, as the hormones should act to bring the increased fat under control.Bodies with more fat will produce more leptin bringing the appetite under control.However in cases where the body is inflamed there is often a problem with leptin resistance, and the self regulation of fat does not occur.Leptin resistance is where to body stops responding to the appetite controlling effects of the hormone.

In addition to these metabolism regulating hormones your fatty tissue also produces chemicals that cause inflammation and this can make the problem of leptin resistance worse.This is why obesity can cause an increase of these inflammatory chemicals which in turn inhibit the correct balancing function of the weight controlling hormones.This results in a vicious circle of weight gain causing inflammation which inhibits hormone function thereby causing further weight gain.

Food and inflammation

Another major cause of inflammation in our bodies is the food we eat.Inflammation can be aggravated by diets high in refined or hydrogenated vegetable oils such as those found in margarines, potato chips and baked goods and by diets high in sugars.But food can also be part of the solution to the problem of inflammation.

Anti-inflammatory foods, if eaten regularly, can reduce inflammation in the body and bring the problem under control.This page contains a list of anti-inflammatory foods that if incorporated into your regular diet will help bring a balance to inflammation in your body. Try and feature some kind of anti-inflammatory food into every meal that you eat, and eliminate pro-inflammatory foods from your diet all together.People who have done this often describe noticable relief from previous discomforts and a greater ability to control their weight.

Please also remember that exercise is one of the greatest ways to counter inflammation.Check out our article on the best way to burn fat here.

Vegetables

Bell Peppers

Bok Choy

Broccoli

Broccoli Sprouts

Brussels Sprouts

Cabbage

Cauliflower

Chard

Collards

Fennel Bulb

Garlic

Green Beans

Green Onions/Spring Onions

Kale

Leeks

Olives

Spinach

Sweet potatoes

Turnip Greens

Herbs & Spices

Basil

Cayenne Peppers/Chilli Peppers

Cinnamon

Cloves

Cocoa (at least 70% cocoa chocolate)

Licorice

Mint

Oregano

Parsley

Rosemary

Thyme

Turmeric

Oils

Avocado Oil

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Drinks

Green Tea

Fruits

Acerola (West Indian) Cherries

Apples

Avocados

Black Currants

Blueberries

Fresh Pineapple

Guavas

Kiwifruit

Kumquats

Lemons

Limes

Mulberries

Oranges

Papaya

Raspberries

Rhubarb

Strawberries

Tomatoes

Nuts & Seeds

Almonds

Flaxseed/Linseed

Hazelnuts

Sunflower Seeds

Walnuts

Fish

Cod

Halibut

Herring

Oysters

Rainbow Trout

Salmon

Sardines

Snapper Fish

Striped Bass

Tuna

Whitefish

not feeling so well. food allergy testing may be what you need.

2010-01-06T16:25:00.003-10:00

So many individuals do not realize symptoms they may be having are from food sensitivities. Read on to see the difference between sensitivity and allergy:

What is food sensitivity?

The inability to tolerate foods and environmental factors, also known as sensitivity or intolerance, induces chronic activation of the innate immune system and gives rise to inflammatory processes, which includes excess production of reactive oxygen species and the release of preformed and newly synthesized mediators of inflammation.
This inflammation has been linked to countless chronic conditions, including: digestive disorders, migraines, obesity, chronic fatigue, ADD, aching joints, skin disorders, arthritis and many more.
How does food sensitivity differ from classic food allergies?
True food allergies refer to foods that trigger the immune system to acutely produce massive amounts of the chemical histamine that leads to anaphylaxis. This potentially fatal condition causes the throat and esophagus to swell, cutting off air from the lungs, or may simply cause hives, skin rashes, and other non-life-threatening reactions.

This type of reaction is called a type I hypersensitivity reaction, caused by the degranulation of mast cells or basophils that is mediated by Immunoglobulin E (Ig E).

If you do have digestive issued, skin problems or other conditions that have not gone away with medicine you may need a food allergy test done. It will tell you if you are allergic or sensitive to certain foods or enviromental factors.

Good luck and be well

2010. make smart changes one day at a time.

2010-01-02T17:22:00.002-10:00

I just cannot believe how fast time is going. Making every second count is my new motto! I dont make resolutions because I feel so obligated to keep them, so I just try to change a little at at time for the good of myself and my family. I will definitely be more "green" this year! Here are some ways to start off your year being more green without putting too much of a dent in your wallet:

-wash with baking soda and your favorite essential oil instead of using regular store bought detergent that are loaded with chemicals and skin irritants

-change your shampoo and conditioner to ones that contain only natural healthy ingredients for your skin and body ie no parabens or sodium lauryl sulfate or anything with any added colors(red and blue #4)

-use clean, natural dish soap in place of your dove or whatever brand you buy, they are fairly inexpensive and worth the switch

-recycle

-change your cleaning products to natural ones like baking soda, white vinegar or natural store bought ones that are maybe a little more in price, but greatly worth it for you and your family

-buy paint that has little or no VOC's(volatile organic chemicals) in this case organic is not good. Paint lets off chemicals in the air so be sure to inquire at your local home improvement store about their paint brands.

you may be overwhelmed at first, but by changing one thing at a time, you not only feel better, you are taking care of our earth and your family!!

happy 2010 and be well!!

start the new year off healthier by avoiding these 7 foods.

2009-12-29T12:50:00.002-10:00

Interesting article I came across and thought it would be of importance to well..share!

Read away and start your year off healthier!

Avoid These 7 Foods and You're Off To A Healthier New Year

1. Canned Tomatoes

The expert: Fredrick vom Saal, PhD, an endocrinologist at the University of Missouri who studies bisphenol-A
The resin linings of tin cans contain bisphenol-A, a syntheticestrogen that has been linked to ailments ranging from reproductiveproblems to heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Acidity -- aprominent characteristic of tomatoes -- causes BPA to leach into yourfood.

2. Corn-Fed Beef

The expert: Joel Salatin, co-owner of Polyface Farms and author of books on sustainable farming
Cattle were designed to eat grass, not grains. But farmers todayfeed their animals corn and soybeans, which fatten up the animalsfaster for slaughter. A recent comprehensive study found that comparedwith corn-fed beef, grass-fed beef is higher in beta-carotene, vitaminE, omega-3s, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), calcium, magnesium, andpotassium.

3. Microwave Popcorn

The expert: Olga Naidenko, PhD, a senior scientist for the Environmental Working Group
Chemicals, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), in the lining ofthe bag, are part of a class of compounds that may be linked toinfertility in humans. In animal testing, the chemicals cause liver,testicular, and pancreatic cancer. Studies show that microwaving causesthe chemicals to vaporize -- and migrate into your popcorn.

4. Nonorganic Potatoes

The expert: Jeffrey Moyer, chair of the National Organic Standards Board
Root vegetables absorb herbicides, pesticides, and fungicides thatwind up in soil. In the case of potatoes they're treated withfungicides during the growing season, then sprayed with herbicides tokill off the fibrous vines before harvesting. After they're dug up, thepotatoes are treated yet again to prevent them from sprouting.

5. Farmed Salmon

The expert: David Carpenter, MD, director of the Institute for Health and the Environment at the University at Albany
Nature didn't intend for salmon to be crammed into pens and fed soy,poultry litter, and hydrolyzed chicken feathers. As a result, farmedsalmon is lower in vitamin D and higher in contaminants, includingcarcinogens, PCBs, brominated flame retardants, and pesticides such asdioxin and DDT.

6. Milk Produced with Artificial Hormones

The expert: Rick North, project director of the Campaign for Safe Food at the Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility
Milk producers treat their dairy cattle with recombinant bovinegrowth hormone (rBGH or rBST, as it is also known) to boost milkproduction. But rBGH also increases udder infections and even pus inthe milk. It also leads to higher levels of a hormone calledinsulin-like growth factor in milk. In people, high levels of IGF-1 maycontribute to breast, prostate, and colon cancers.

7. Conventional Apples

The expert: Mark Kastel, codirector of the Cornucopia Institute
If fall fruits held a "most doused in pesticides contest," appleswould win. And increasing numbers of studies are starting to link ahigher body burden of pesticides with Parkinson's disease.

Happy 2010, its your choice..choose to be well.

stuffy. sneezy. red swollen eye. haaaa-chew!!

2009-12-25T22:13:00.000-10:00

ALLERGIES?

First of all...MERRY CHRISTMAS..HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS 2009

Every year we celebrate at my parents in Mililani, as soon as I arrived I felt allergies coming on, within a half hour both of my nostrils were totally plugged and I could hardly breathe? Ughhh why now, why on Christmas?

Allergies occur when your immune system reacts to a foreign substance such as pollen, bee venom or pet dander.

The immune system produces proteins known as IgE antibodies. Theseantibodies protect you from unwanted invaders that could make you sickor cause an infection. When you have allergies, your immune systemmakes antibodies that identify your particular allergen as somethingharmful, even though it isn't. This triggers the release of histaminesand other substances that cause allergy symptoms.

Allergies can cause symptoms that involve your skin, sinuses, airwaysor digestive system. The severity of allergies varies from person toperson and can range from minor irritation to anaphylaxis — apotentially life-threatening emergency. While allergies can't be cured,a number of treatments can help relieve your allergy symptoms.

One of the primary causes of allergies is an impaired immune system, which substantially increases the risk of allergic reactions. " This occurs when the immune system becomes stressed due to an overload of toxins.

Some natural approaches to battling allergic reactions:

Neti Pots. What could be simpler than rinsing awayallergens with saltwater? Neti pots, small vessels shaped likeAladdin’s lamp (see the Image Gallery), have been used in India forthousands of years to flush the sinuses and keep them clear. It’s anidea that takes some getting used to for most Westerners, but it’s abit like using nasal spray. A little douse of saltwater can rinse awaythose prickly pollen grains and help treat allergies and other forms ofsinus congestion.

Just last year, an Italian study published in the International Archives of Allergy and Immunologyfound that nasal flushing was a mild and effective way to treatseasonal allergies in children, and markedly reduced their use ofantihistamines.

You could simply use your cupped hand instead ofa neti pot to rinse sinuses, but netis are inexpensive, and many peoplefind them much easier to use. To flush your sinuses, mix a quarter to ahalf teaspoon of noniodized table salt into a cup of lukewarm water andpour it into the pot. (You can adjust the amount of salt, depending onwhat feels most comfortable.) Lean over a sink with your head slightlycocked to one side, then put the spout of the neti into one nostril andallow the water to drain out the other nostril. Use about half of thesolution, then repeat on the other side, tilting your head the oppositeway. Gently blow out each nostril to clear them completely. Neti potsare widely available online and at natural food stores. Use your potabout twice a day during allergy season, especially in the morning andafter spending time outdoors. You also can use a neti pot before bed toprevent snoring caused by allergies and promote optimal overnightbreathing.

Quercetin. A natural plant-derivedcompound called a bioflavonoid, quercetin helps stabilize mast cellsand prevents them from releasing histamine. Quercetin also is a naturalantioxidant that helps mop up molecules called free radicals that causecell damage, which can lead to cancer. Citrus fruits, onions, apples,parsley, tea, tomatoes, broccoli, lettuce and wine are naturally highin quercetin, but allergy sufferers will most likely need to usesupplements to build up enough of this compound to prevent attacks. Therecommended dosage is about 1,000 milligrams a day, taken betweenmeals. It’s best to start treatment six weeks before allergy season.Those with liver disease shouldn’t use quercetin, so please consultyour doctor before using this or any other supplement — especially ifyou are pregnant or nursing.

Allergy Fighting Foods. A German study, published in the journal Allergy,found that participants who ate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids wereless likely to suffer allergy symptoms than those who didn’t regularlyeat these foods. Omega-3s help fight inflammation and can be found incold-water fish, walnuts and flaxseed oil, as well as grass-fed meatand eggs.

To help keepairways clear when pollen counts are high, add a dash of horseradish,chili peppers or hot mustard to your food — all act as natural,temporary decongestants. It’s also a good idea to avoid foods thatyou’re slightly allergic to until the air clears. Fighting offallergies can render the body hypersensitive to those foods, causingmore severe reactions than usual.

Stinging Nettle. If you decide you need an antihistamine but want a natural option, stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)behaves in much the same way as many of the drugs sold to treatallergies, but without the unwanted side effects of dry mouth anddrowsiness. Nettle actually inhibits the body’s ability to producehistamine. It’s a common weed in many parts of the United States, butthe most practical medicinal form is a freeze-dried extract of theleaves sold in capsules. Studies have shown that taking about 300milligrams daily will offer relief for most people, although theeffects may last only a few hours. You also can make your own tincturesor teas with stinging nettle.

Getting allergies comes down to the main reason: a weak immune system. Find ways to build up your immunity and in the long run you will have less allergic reactions!

Merry Christmas anenjoy, but dont overload your body too much, be well!!

the role of vitamin D3.

2009-12-17T06:46:00.000-10:00

I have been hearing a lot about vitamin D3 for immunity. Since the Flu and Swine Flu scares have been the "talk of the town" we as parents want the best to build up our children, as well as our own, immune systems.

Vitamin D3, is one of them.

Here is some info I gathered on it.

Vitamin D is found in many dietary sources such as fish, eggs,fortified milk, and cod liver oil. The sun also contributessignificantly to the daily production of vitamin D, and as little as 10minutes of exposure is thought to be enough to prevent deficiencies.The term "vitamin D" refers to several different forms of this vitamin.Two forms are important in humans: ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) andcholecalciferol (vitamin D3). Vitamin D2 is synthesized by plants.Vitamin D3 is synthesized by humans in the skin when it is exposed toultraviolet-B (UVB) rays from sunlight. Foods may be fortified withvitamin D2 or D3.

The major biologic function of vitamin D isto maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin Daids in the absorption of calcium, helping to form and maintain strongbones. Recently, research also suggests vitamin D may provideprotection from osteoporosis, hypertension (high blood pressure),cancer, and several autoimmune diseases.

Maintains Your Calcium Balance

Maintenanceof blood calcium levels within a narrow range is vital for normalfunctioning of the nervous system, as well as for bone growth, andmaintenance of bone density. Vitamin D is essential for the efficientutilization of calcium by the body.¹

Aids Your Cell Differentiation

Cellulardifferentiation results in the specialization of cells for specificfunctions in your body. In general, differentiation of cells leads to adecrease in proliferation. While cellular proliferation is essentialfor growth and wound healing, uncontrolled proliferation of cells withcertain mutations may lead to diseases like cancer. The active form ofvitamin D, inhibits proliferation and stimulates the differentiation ofcells.¹

Boosts Your Immunity

Active vitamin Dis a potent immune system modulator. There is plenty of scientificevidence that vitamin D has several different effects on immune systemfunction that may enhance your immunity and inhibit the development ofautoimmunity.⁸

Has a Role in Insulin Secretion

The active form of vitamin D plays a role in insulin secretion under conditions of increased insulin demand.⁹Limited data in humans suggests that insufficient vitamin D levels mayhave an adverse effect on insulin secretion and glucose tolerance intype 2 diabetes.^10-12 More studies are needed on the role of vitamin D and diabetes.

Blood Pressure Regulation

Adequate vitamin D levels may be important for decreasing the risk of high blood pressure.^13-15 Again, more studies on vitamin D and hypertension are necessary.

Vitamin D and Diseases

According to the National Institutes of Health, vitamin D may play a role in the following diseases.

I recently bought a vitamin D spray that you spray under your tongue, hold for 20 seconds, then swallow. As a spray or drop, it is easily and quickly absorbed into your blood stream.

A capsule or pill form is also available

You can get a tincture(liquid drop) form at Down To Earth and drop some into applesauce or juice for your kids.

FYI: always try it first before giving it to your kids!!

**do not overdose on vitamin D, if you are unsure of the daily allowances, do more research on that. We in Hawaii get more sun than a lot of other people who live elsewhere esp in the winter, but it is still a great supplement to have on hand when the cold and flu season hits!

Happy Holidays and Happy Sun!!

new stuff.

2009-12-06T16:54:00.008-10:00

New interesting studies done on immunity

Here is a picture of the herb echinacea purpurea

As you all know I use an elderberry/echinacea/propolis herbal syrup for my kids every night. As I spoke with a worker in the wellness department at Down To Earth, she informed me that these particular herbs should NOT be used when your children are sick(fever). There have been new studies done on immunity. These herbs, I guess, are very strong that when the body is sick(low immunity) it shifts the immunity so far up that one can develop pneumonia. I got the "jist" of it, but have not done enough research. It was very interesting but understood.

So as an everyday supplement for a healthy child, these herbs are fine.

Here are some great everyday immune boosters:

probiotics-take at night so that it colonizes in the stomach and intestines

vitamin D3

elderberry

echinacea

oil of oregano-also great if sick if not taken everyday

reishi(mushroom)-also great if sick and not taken everyday

My next post will be on vitamin D3 so check back for that. Surprisingly this vitamin is the "latest" super immune booster!!

So, before you go out and buy something do some research, look at the pros and cons of everything! Ask your wellness advisors they are pretty knowledgeable. And if you feel you do not get enough info from them, do it yourself!! Knowledge is Power!!

pure necessities.

2009-12-01T18:38:00.000-10:00

Just thought I would share three little inexpensive things that I feel are great necessities to have especially with children.

LAVENDAR ESSENTIAL OIL

-add a few drops to bath water for a great aroma and relaxation
-mix some with pure EVOO(extra virgin olive oil) and rub some into your temples for relief from a headache
-add some into your laundry: baking soda and lavendar oil make a great eco-friendly laundry detergent

EUCALYPTUS ESSENTIAL OIL

-as a chest rub: add a few drops to EVOO, jojoba or any carrier oil and use a rub on the chest when you or your child has a cough or any type of congestion. The oils open the airways and help breathing.
-put a few drops of this on a tissue and leave it in your room or wherever your child sleeps and it will fill the air and breathing will be much easier
-add a few drops to a humidifier and your room will be smelling great and will also help breathing and congestion

RAW GARLIC
garlic is such an awesome herb. it has so many benefits I just dont know where to start. Garlic is know for cooking but it also has been a remedy for so many ailments for years. Garlic, when smashed, releases antibacterial properties great for killing bacteria and viruses. Here are some uses that I use it for:

-earaches and infections-smash a few cloves add to olive oil warm up and drop into infected ears! works wonders and it will save you from buying antibiotics and going to the dr.
-also for ear infections, you can take a whole clove and stick it into your ear..really!!
-smash a few cloves and put them under your feet, cover with sock and the gases from the garlic will go through your skin and help with colds, infections etc...
-add some to EVOO and use it as a chest and body rub..not that great smelling but it will do wonders!!

I hope you find these three things useful to you, I will never go without these in my home!!
~happy shopping!!
all of these can be found at any health food store

keeping it cool.

2009-11-23T18:39:00.006-10:00

Suffering from hot flashes, irritability or night sweats? Yes, they are symptoms of menopause. Many of us have a while before this hits us, but for some it may be here or right around the corner. Here is a drink that contains natural herbal ingredients that are supposed to help eliminated these menopausal symptoms. Now days more are turning to natural remedies that treat the actual "cause" and not just the "symptoms". There are other drinks for other symptoms also on this site, it's worth checking out!

http://drinkgem.com/store/1-keep-it-cool-for-menopause-relief

~have a great Thanksgiving weekend and keep it cool!

who are you "flu-in"?

2009-11-22T15:29:00.000-10:00

I am really not an expert on all this flu stuff, but I definitely have read enough for me to make the decision not to take the flu or swine flu shot for myself or my kids. Here is a link for you to get some information on what these vaccinations are actually made of.

here is some info on the swine flu:

http://swineflu.mercola.com/

here is some info on why not to give your child the flu vaccination:

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2009/10/06/Why-You-Should-NOT-Vaccinate-Your-Children-Against-the-Flu-This-Season.aspx

Sounds to me as if what its made of is so much more harmful for you anyway. Here are some ways to build your immune system so that you won't have to worry about the flu bug:

Avoid Sugar. Since sugar works by breaking down the functions of the immune system, it is especially important to eliminate it from your diet in order to keep your immune system running strong and capable of fighting viruses such as the flu.
Get Enough Rest. Getting the proper amount of sleep will help build up your resistance against potential invaders. When your body becomes over fatigued, it's more difficult to fight the flu. If you are having problems with sleep please review my Guide to Better Sleeping.
Have Tools To Address Stress. Everyone deals with some type of stress on a daily basis. Our bodies lose the ability to fight off the flu and other illnesses when we let stress overwhelm us. As a matter of fact, reports show that up to 90 percent of illness and disease are stress-related.
Exercise. Exercise helps your immune system by improving circulation throughout your body. When the components of your immune system circulate properly, the immune system is better equipped to detect an illness before it gets a chance to spread.
Eat Garlic Regularly. Eating fresh garlic each day will help keep the flu at bay. The antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal components of garlic are destroyed within one hour of smashing the garlic. Therefore it is best to eat fresh garlic, as garlic pills are virtually worthless.
Wash Your Hands. Good hand washing will help decrease the likelihood of spreading viruses to your nose, mouth or other people. If your immune system is strong, it should be able to fight off the virus if it does enter your body, but washing your hands provides that extra barrier of protection.
One word of caution is avoid using antibacterial soaps. These soaps are completely unnecessary and could easily cause more harm than good. The antibacterial compounds found in most of these soaps sold in the United States are likely contributing to the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
In my practice, I have found the best way to maintain the ultimate hygiene is by using the Clenzology Advanced Hygiene System. This hygiene kit is simple to use and only takes a matter of minutes, which makes it ideal for families with young children.
Most importantly, the Clenzology soap is not antibacterial and it is capable of reaching the tens of thousands of germs on the backs and palms of hands, on fingers and under fingernails.
7. Get enough vitamin D: so many people are deficient in vitamin D, here in Hawaii where its sunny year round the problem is not so big. You should get at least 20min per day of unprotected sun exposure.

Enjoy the reading and make an informed decision for yourself and your family!!
~live healthy, be well

move over dog.man's new best friend-COFFEE!

2009-11-19T21:40:00.004-10:00

A Cup of Joe...do I dare touch on the subject of COFFEE!!! I love coffee but admit I do not drink it everyday! I remember as a little girl watching my mom and dad drink coffee and telling myself,"I will never drink coffee, yuck! Especially black coffee!" I have to admit, when drinking it with food, I love it black:) I have come to the point where I can actually enjoy and true taste of coffee without all the "crap" (if I may) in it!

I have never actually studied the health benefits and downfalls of coffee so I though it would be interesting to see what they were.

The "Pros"

1. Antioxidants. Coffee is loaded with antioxidants like chlorogenic acid and melanoidins. Antioxidants help prevent oxidation, a process that causes damage to cells and contributes to aging. Melanoidins from roasted coffee have antioxidative effects depending on the way the coffee is treated.

2. Parkinson's disease. Regular coffee consumption reduces the risk of Parkinson's disease. A number of studies [1],[2] have demonstrated that people who drink coffee on a regular basis are significantly less likely to develop Parkinson's disease.

3. Diabetes. Coffee consumption is potentially protective against the development of type 2 diabetes. A prospective cohort study as part of the US Nurses Health Study found that moderate consumption of both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes in younger and middle aged women.

4. Liver cirrhosis. Coffee drinking may protect against liver cirrhosis, especially alcoholic cirrhosis.

5. Gallstones. There is some evidence that coffee drinking may be protective against gallstone formation in both men and women.

6. Kidney stones. Coffee consumption lowers the risk of kidney stones formation. Coffee increases the urine volume, preventing the crystallization of calcium oxalate, the most common component of kidney stones.

7. Improved mental performance. Caffeine in coffee is a well-known stimulant. Coffee promotes alertness, attention and wakefulness. The cup of coffee can also increase information processing.

8. Alzheimer's disease. Regular coffee consumption seems to protect against Alzheimer's disease. Recent mouse study showed that caffeine equivalent to 5 cups of coffee per day reduced the build up of destructive plaques in the brain.

9. Asthma. Caffeine in coffee is related to theophylline, an old asthma medication. Caffeine can open airways and improve asthma symptoms.

10. Caffeine safety. In 1958, caffeine was placed on the Food and Drug Administration's list as generally recognized as safe (GRAS).

The "Cons"

1. Heart disease. The relation between coffee consumption and risk of cardiovascular disease has been examined in many studies, but the results remain controversial. Most prospective cohort studies have not found coffee consumption to be associated with significantly increased cardiovascular disease risk.

On one hand, diterpenes cafestol and kahweol present in unfiltered coffee and caffeine each appear to increase risk of coronary heart disease. High quality studies have confirmed the cholesterol-raising effect of diterpenes. Coffee consumption is also associated with an increase of plasma homocysteine, a risk factor forcoronary heart disease.

On the other hand, a lower risk of heart disease among moderate coffee drinkers might be due to antioxidants found in coffee.Besides that, caffeine can increase the risk of heart attack, especially among those people who carry the "slow" gene variant for the enzyme that metabolizes caffeine.

2. Cholesterol. Heavy consumption of boiled coffee elevates blood total and LDL cholesterol ("bad cholesterol") levels. Unfiltered coffee contains two cholesterol-raising compounds cafestol and kahweol.

3. Blood vessels. Coffee negatively affects the blood vessel tone and function (increases arterial stiffness and wave reflections).

4. Heart rhythm disturbances. Coffee can cause rapid or irregular heartbeats (cardiac arrhythmias).

5. Blood pressure. Although coffee consumption is not a significant risk factor for hypertension, it produces unfavorable effects on blood pressure and people prone to hypertension may be more susceptible. Recent Italian study found that coffee drinking can slightly increase the risk for development of sustained hypertension in persons with elevated blood pressure.

6. Osteoporosis. Coffee intake may induce an extra urinary excretion of calcium. Heavy coffee consumption (4 cups=600 ml or more) can modestly increase the risk of osteoporosis, especially in women with a low calcium intake.

7. Heartburn. A cup of coffee can trigger heartburn.

Sleep

8. Sleep. Most of us are aware of the stimulatory effects of caffeine. High amounts of caffeine taken before going to sleep, can cause restlessness and difficulty falling asleep, tendency to be awakened more readily by sudden noises, and a decreased quality of sleep. However, some people can drink coffee and fall right asleep.

9. Dehydration. The caffeine in coffee is a mild diuretic and can increase urine excretion. This effect may be easily neutralized by drinking an extra glass of water.

10. Dependence. Caffeine is a drug, a mild central nervous system stimulant, and it produces dependence. Caffeine withdrawal is a real syndrome. You may get a few days of headache and irritability if you choose to quit drinking coffee, however, it is relatively easy to break this habit, and most people are not addicted to caffeine.

ALWAYS FILTER:

Always filter your coffee, all coffee made from coffee pots are filtered and most espresso machines are also, but if you happen to use a french press or perculator, those coffees are not filtered and the ingredients in unfiltered coffee can cause a rise in cholesterol. Studies were done on this.

So, what is the key? The old principle - "everything in moderation" - holds true for coffee. It is not bad unless you abuse it. Coffee has its downsides, but offers enough good points to make it a worthwhile drink. For moderate coffee drinkers (3-4 cups/day providing 300-400 mg/day of caffeine), there is little evidence of health risks and some evidence of health benefits. And for sure you can enjoy your coffee as part of a healthy diet.

***IMPORTANT:

what you put into your coffee (especially if you drink a cup or two a day) will make a huge difference in your long term health.

All creamers liquid and powdered contain a lot of sugar, corn syrup solids and hydrogenated fats, very bad for you...PERIOD!

half and half contain a lot of fat

soy milk: be careful when using soy, esp the vanilla flavored ones, they contain a lot of sugar also.

artificial sweeteners are just not supposed to be for ingestion..simply put!

some other alternatives:

almond milk

low sugar soy or vanilla soy

rice milk

non fat milk

agave syrup

honey

stevia

pure cocoa powder

or like me...DRINK IT BLACK!

~have a cup, enjoy the rush!

next ill be posting on the way DECAF coffee is made..

ear infections.yuck.

2009-11-13T19:52:00.000-10:00

Here's a well known remedy for ear aches and infections:

-raw garlic

-olive oil

smash raw garlic cloves about 2 or 3.

add to oil and warm or simmer on very low heat

remove from heat and let sit until lukewarm

put 2-3 drops in the infected ear up to 3-4 x per day

Garlic is a natural antiseptic and will kill bacteria on the spot!!

Soo..before heading to the doctors office for antibiotics, try this it works. This will save you time, money and nasty antibiotics in you or your child's body. Also, did you know that majority of ear infections in children will clear up on their own?

~happy hearing

baking soda. not only for baking.

2009-11-11T21:43:00.001-10:00

Baking Soda or Sodium Bicarbonate has so many uses, I found a bunch for you to see, its cheap, non-toxic and easy!!

There are many non-poisonous products that can be used for basic household cleaning. Next to vinegar, the most useful of these is baking soda.

Like vinegar, baking soda has three major things going for it as a cleanser:

It's non-toxic. Sure, eaten in large amounts it might make you feel unpleasant, but it's not poisonous.
It's multi-purpose. The suggestions in this article are only a few of the many ways that baking soda can be used as a household cleanser.
Best of all, it's CHEAP! The cost of baking soda (especially when purchased in several pound large boxes) is far less than that of any other, specialized cleaning agent.

Baking soda (or bicarbonate of soda, as it is also known) is a naturally occurring material, present in most organic life forms. It can be "made" from sodium carbonate, or soda ash. The soda ash is dissolved in a carbon dioxide rich solution, and sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) precipitates out.

As its name suggests, baking soda can be used for cooking. It can also be used medicinally, and, as we will discuss in this article, for cleaning.

In the kitchen
The kitchen is the most likely place to find baking soda. Don't stop with using it for baking, though!

1. A box or small bowl of baking soda in the refrigerator, freezer, or any cupboard will keep away unpleasant odors.

2. Similarly, baking soda will keep away garbage odors; sprinkle the bottom of the pail, and then sprinkle again after you put a new bag in.

3. Grease fires can be put out by sprinkling them with baking soda.

4. To clean surfaces, sprinkle baking soda on a damp cloth. Wipe, then rinse with clean water.

5. To remove stale smells from food containers, rinse out with hot water and baking soda. If the smell persists, let the container soak overnight in the baking soda and water mixture.

6. To clean silver, use a paste of 3 parts baking soda to one part water. Rub the paste onto each item, then rinse with warm water and dry with a soft cloth.

7. To remove scuff marks or grease spills from the floor, sprinkle with baking soda and then wipe with a warm, damp cloth. This is even safe for no-wax floors!

8. For burnt-on food in the bottom of pots, sprinkle with baking soda, then add hot water. Let soak overnight; the dried on food will come loose much more easily.

In the Bathroom

9.To remove stubborn stains from most surfaces, use a baking soda paste (3 parts baking soda, one part water). Apply, let stand, then scrub or wipe clean.

10. Hairbrushes and combs can be cleaned in a baking soda solution.

11. To avoid clogged drains, pour 1/4 cup baking soda down weekly. Rinse through with hot water.

All Around the House

12. To remove scents from a carpet, sprinkle with baking soda. Let stand for at least fifteen minutes, then vacuum. Repeat as needed.

13. If there is a smoker in the house, put baking soda in the bottom of each ashtray to keep away some of the stale smoke smell.

14. Baking soda in the litterbox will help prevent odors.

15. To quickly clean pets and remove "wet dog" odor, sprinkle with baking soda and brush out their fur.

16. To help remove spills, blot as much as possible. Then clean as you normally would. When finished, sprinkle with baking soda. Vacuum. This will decrease the chance that some of the spilled item will remain in the carpet and cause unpleasant odors later.

17. Children's toys can be cleaned using 1/4 cup baking soda in 1 quart warm water. Submerge in this mixture (or wipe with a cloth dampened in it), then rinse with clear water.

In the Laundry

18. Replace half of each measure of laundry detergent with baking soda to keep clothing fresh.

19. To remove grease stains, either add baking soda to the wash load or pretreat the stains with a baking soda paste.

20. Pretreat diapers in their pail with baking soda. This will keep odors from becoming overpowering between washings.

21. Baking soda increases the effectiveness of chlorine bleach. Add 1 / 2 cup to your laundry, along with the usual amount of bleach.

22. If you keep a laundry hamper, add some baking soda every day to keep the hamper from smelling between emptyings.

Outside the House (Yard and Garage)

23. Baking soda can be used to help clean up grease spills.

24. To remove burnt food from the grill, sprinkle with baking soda, then soak. After several hours, the charred pieces will come loose easily.

25. Lawn furniture can be easily cleaned with a rinse of 1/4 cup baking soda in 1 quart warm water.

26. The children's pool can be cleaned and have mildew removed by washing with baking soda in warm water.

27. Before packing away your camping gear after a trip, sprinkle with baking soda.

For Your skin

28. mix some with water to make a paste and use as a scrub for your skin. rinse off. Baking soda is alkaline and will naturally restore the pH of your skin.

29. It can also be mixed in a glass of water and taken for upset stomachs...gulp it quick it doesnt taste too well:(.

Happy Baking!!

vinegar. good for me?

2009-11-10T13:03:00.000-10:00

	Vinegar...euww, strong smelling, who would have thought that it could benefit your health? Well-know Braggs Organic unfiltered apple cider vinegar(ACV) has been used for years and has many internal as well as external benefits. Read on: Ingredients: Certified Bragg Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar is unfiltered, unheated, unpasteurized and 5% acidity. Contains the amazing Mother of Vinegar which occurs naturally as strand-like enzymes of connected protein molecules. Information: Bragg Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar is made from delicious, healthy, organically grown apples. Processed and bottled in accordance with USDA guidelines, it is Certified Organic by Organic Certifiers and Oregon Tilth; and is Kosher Certified. Bragg Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar is full of zesty natural goodness. It’s a wholesome way to add delicious flavor to salads, veggies, most foods, and even sprinkle over popcorn. Apple Cider Vinegar has been highly regarded throughout history. In 400 B.C. the great Hippocrates, Father of Medicine, used it for its amazing health qualities.
INTERNAL BENEFITS:	EXTERNAL BENEFITS:
Rich in enzymes & potassium Support a healthy immune system Helps control weight Promotes digestion & ph Balance Helps soothe dry throats Helps remove body sludge toxins	Helps maintain healthy skin Helps promote youthful, healthy bodies Soothes irritated skin Relieves muscle pain from exercise
*Add a few tablespoons to a cup of water and some honey for a daily health tonic also great as a skin toner 50%water to 50% ACV use cotton ball and apply to face, it allows the skin to become more acidic which helps the skin purify itself. "Apple Cider Vinegar is the icing on the cake. I had always heard about Apple Cider Vinegar... everyone in the world should be drinking this on a daily basis! - Dr. Steven Gibb* Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar pH = 3.075 Concentration/Strength = 63 grain Acetic Acid = 5.14 % Potassium = 11mg/Tbsp. <2% DRV / RD

did someone say needles?

2009-11-07T18:00:00.000-10:00

What is Acupuncture?

I have never gone or studied acupuncture. Since my mom had a session done today, I thought I would check out its benefits.

Acupuncture is a component of traditional Chinese medicine that originated in China over 5,000 years ago. It is based on the belief that living beings have a vital energy, called "qi", that circulates through twelve invisible energy lines known as meridians on the body. Each meridian is associated with a different organ system. An imbalance in the flow of qi throughout a meridian is how disease begins.

Acupuncturists insert needles into specified points along meridian lines to influence the restore balance to the flow of qi. There are over 1,000 acupuncture points on the body.

In 1997, acupuncture needles were reclassified from "experimental" to "medical device" by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The National Institutes of Health released a consensus statment in the same year endorsing acupuncture for the treatment of a variety of conditions such as post-operative pain, tennis elbow, and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Acupuncture is one of the best known of the alternative therapies. The FDA estimates that people in the United States spend more than $500 million annually on acupuncture treatments. Many people have insurance coverage for acupuncture.

How Acupuncture Works

There are numerous theories about how acupuncture works. Some of them are:

acupuncture stimulates the release of pain-relieving endorphins
acupuncture influences the release of neurotransmitters, substances that transmit nerve impulses to the brain
acupuncture influences the autonomic nervous system
acupuncture stimulates circulation
acupuncture influences the electrical currents of the body

Conditions Treated By Acupuncture

migraines and tension headaches
sinusitis
common cold
addictions, quit smoking
trigeminal neuralgia
Meniere's disease
tennis elbow
sciatica
arthritis
menstrual cramps
fibromyalgia
low back pain
asthma
weight loss
infertility

What a Typical Acupuncture Treatment is Like

Before the initial appointment, clients usually complete a health history questionnaire. The acupuncturist then interviews the client, asking about his or her primary health concern, lifestyle habits, diet, emotions, menstrual cycle, sleep, temperature, appetite, stress, and sensitivity to foods, temperature, and seasons. During the interview, the acupuncturist examines the client carefully, noting his or her face color, voice, and tongue colour and coating. There are also three pulse points at the wrist of each hand that the acupuncturist will assess to further determine the health of the 12 meridians.

After the interview, the acupuncturist gives a diagnosis and begins treatment. Typically, the acupuncturist will use 6-12 needles during the treatment. The number of needles used does not correspond with the intensity of the treatment, rather it is the precise placement of the needles that is important.

Upon insertion, the client may feel a slight sting or prick. Once the needle is inserted, there should be no pain. You should feel comfortable during the treatment. If you experience pain, numbness, or discomfort, notify the acupuncturist immediately.

Treatment length varies from seconds to longer than one hour. The typical length is about 20 to 30 minutes. The acupuncturist may use the following techniques during the treatment:

moxibustion - heating of acupuncture needles with dried herb sticks to activate and warm the acupuncture point. Also known as "moxa".
cupping - the application of glass cups to create a suction on the skin. This is to relieve stagnation of qi and blood, e.g. in sports injury.
herbal medicine - Chinese herbs may be given in the form of teas, pills, and capsules to supplement acupuncture treatment.
electrostimulation - provides electrical stimulation to two to four acupuncture needles. Can be used for pain relief and muscle pain.
laser acupuncture - non-needle stimulation of needles

Acupuncture Side Effects

When performed by a properly trained and licensed practitioner, acupuncture is safe and effective, free from adverse or addictive side effects. Quite often, a sense of relaxation and well-being occurs during and after treatments. While undergoing therapy for one ailment, other problems may resolve concurrently. This is a common side benefit that again demonstrates the value of balancing the quality and quantity of "vital energy" within the entire person.

smoothies. a great way to get good stuff.

2009-11-06T20:35:00.000-10:00

Fruit and Vegetable smoothies are great ways to get lots of vitamins and minerals, especially into your kids. There is no right or wrong way, there are tons of smoothie recipes out there. I make one every morning for the boys and I. It's a great way to mask certain supplements that wouldn't taste great alone. For example:

~flax meal: great source of Omega 3

~probiotic powder: great for immunity and digestion and it adds great healthy bacteria to your body

~powdered herbs

~herbal tinctures

and lots more

Be creative!!

Here's a sample smoothie I make every morning:

about 1c rice, almond or soy milk

mixed frozen berries

one banana

flax meal

probiotic powder

spirulina powder

Smoothies are delicious and kids love them, they are a great way to start your day and its feels great knowing your children are filled with healthy foods!

kids and vitamins.confused?

2009-11-05T21:41:00.002-10:00

Confused and frustrated about finding a good quality multi-vitamin for your kids? Well, here is a list of do's and dont's and what to look for in a good children's supplement:

~choose one without iron

Clearly most all children require iron and can be deficient. This is in contrast to nearly all post menopausal women and adult men where supplemental iron is typically toxic and can increase the risk of cancer and heart disease.

But iron can also be toxic to children if taken in large amounts. Tragically, this happens every day as children's chewable multivitamins taste so good. It's common for kids to consume an entire bottle at once thinking they are candy.

Everyday children are rushed to the ER with iron overdose from this scenario and many of them die.

When it comes to iron, I see three options for your children:

Good -- Find out if the supplement has iron. If it does, make sure the bottle has a child-proof cap and keep it away from your children.
Better -- Make sure the supplement does NOT have iron in the form of ferrous sulfate. It should be in the form of carbonyl iron. There has never been a reported fatality from this type of iron. It is very safe.
Best -- Provide your children with a multivitamin without any iron in it at all. Make sure your children obtain regular iron sources from their food.

~Choose one with the right kind of sweetener and not too much of it

Natural sugars, like the sucrose found in fruits and vegetables, are your healthiest sweeteners. However, I didn't find evidence of natural sugars in the children's multivitamins I researched.

Instead, many of them contained Aspartame or high fructose corn syrup -- two unhealthy choices.

And when I say natural sugar is okay for your kids, of course I mean in moderation. I would recommend 1 g (gram) or less per multivitamin serving for your kids.

Yet, I found some multivitamins with as much as 3 g of sugar or more.

I realize multivitamins for your kids need to taste good, but 3 g of sugar (whether natural or not), is too much sweetener.

~Make sure it doesn't contain an ingredient called "magnesium stearate"

this is a potential toxic substance that is used in pill form vitamins and can disrupt the intestines. It is used as a "other ingredient" in so many different vitamins so read the label.

~Make sure it is allergen-free

Allergens can cause you and your children potential health challenges.

Double-check your children's multivitamin to ensure it is free from the following potential risky ingredients and allergens*:

Yeast and wheat gluten
Soy protein
Milk and dairy
Corn
Sodium and Starch
Artificial colors, preservatives, and flavorings
Sweeteners will need to be used in a chewable -- Make sure the sweetener is natural and has one gram or less of sugar per serving and does not have any high fructose corn syrup

Here's a table showing examples of potential risky ingredients. It also illustrates how two of the most popular children's multivitamin formulas stack up.

Multivitamin Ingredient	Description	Flintstones™ Complete?	Centrum® Kids Complete?
Iron	If child consumes entire bottle can overdose and die	Yes	Yes
Artificial flavors	Term used for unknown synthetic and artificial chemicals	Yes	Yes
Carrageenan	Food additive causing potential gastrointestinal disorders	Yes	Yes
Hydrogenated vegetable oil	This oil is a trans fat which can weaken your kids' immune and cardiovascular systems	Yes
Aspartame	Artificial sweetener (also known as NutraSweet™) linked to potential immune system and neurological problems	Yes	Yes
FD&C Red #40 Lake	Synthetic dye shown to cause potential colon system damage	Yes	Yes
FD&C Yellow #6 and Blue #2 Lake	Synthetic dyes linked to potential hyperactivity and behavioral problems in children	Yes	Yes
Magnesium stearate (or stearic acid)	A potential toxic metal additive from pill production and hydrogenated oils	Yes	Yes

*Although the correct supplementation is important, nothing will replace good wholesome organic foods. So teach your children healthy lifestyles now and it will follow them when they are older!!

~for our kids...Be Well.

acidic vs. alkaline..what does the body need.

2009-11-03T17:55:00.003-10:00

Acid / Alkaline Balance

Over acidity, which can become a dangerous condition that weakens all body systems, is very common today. It gives rise to an internal environment conducive to disease, as opposed to a pH-balanced environment which allows normal body function necessary for the body to resist disease. A healthy body maintains adequate alkaline reserves to meet emergency demands. When excess acids must be neutralized, our alkaline reserves are depleted leaving the body in a weakened condition.

The concept of acid alkaline imbalance as the cause of disease is not new. In 1933 a New York doctor named William Howard Hay published a ground-breaking book, A New Health Era in which he maintains that all disease is caused by autotoxication (or "self-poisoning") due to acid accumulation in the body:

The countless names of illnesses do not really matter. What does matter is that they all come from the same root cause...too much tissue acid waste in the body!
Theodore A. Baroody, N.D., D.C., Ph.D.

Understanding pH

pH (potential of hydrogen) is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. It is measured on a scale of 0 to 14—the lower the pH the more acidic the solution, the higher the pH the more alkaline (or base) the solution. When a solution is neither acid nor alkaline it has a pH of 7 which is neutral.

Water is the most abundant compound in the human body, comprising 70% of the body. The body has an acid-alkaline (or acid-base) ratio called the pH which is a balance between positively charges ions (acid-forming) and negatively charged ions (alkaline-forming.) The body continually strives to balance pH. When this balance is compromised many problems can occur.

It is important to understand that we are not talking about stomach acid or the pH of the stomach. We are talking about the pH of the body's fluids and tissues which is an entirely different matter.

Human blood pH should be slightly alkaline ( 7.35 - 7.45 ). Below or above this range means symptoms and disease. A pH of 7.0 is neutral. A pH below 7.0 is acidic. A pH above 7.0 is alkaline.

An acidic pH can occur from, an acid forming diet, emotional stress, toxic overload, and/or immune reactions or any process that deprives the cells of oxygen and other nutrients. The body will try to compensate for acidic pH by using alkaline minerals. If the diet does not contain enough minerals to compensate, a build up of acids in the cells will occur.

An acidic balance will: decrease the body's ability to absorb minerals and other nutrients, decrease the energy production in the cells, decrease it's ability to repair damaged cells, decrease it's ability to detoxify heavy metals, make tumor cells thrive, and make it more susceptible to fatigue and illness. A blood pH of 6.9, which is only slightly acidic, can induce coma and death.

The reason acidosis is more common in our society is mostly due to the typical American diet, which is far too high in acid producing animal products like meat, eggs and dairy, and far too low in alkaline producing foods like fresh vegetables. Additionally, we eat acid producing processed foods like white flour and sugar and drink acid producing beverages like coffee and soft drinks. We use too many drugs, which are acid forming; and we use artificial chemical sweetners like NutraSweet, Spoonful, Sweet 'N Low, Equal, or Aspartame, which are poison and extremely acid forming. One of the best things we can do to correct an overly acid body is to clean up the diet and lifestyle.

Test Your Body's Acidity or Alkalinity with pH Strips

It is recommended that you test your pH levels to determine if your body's pH needs immediate attention. By using pH test strips, you can determine your pH factor quickly and easily in the privacy of your own home. If your urinary pH fluctuates between 6.0 to 6.5 in the morning and between 6.5 and 7.0 in the evening, your body is functioning within a healthy range. If your saliva stays between 6.5 and 7.5 all day, your body is functioning within a healthy range. The best time to test your pH is about one hour before a meal and two hours after a meal. Test your pH two days a week.

~be an alkaline, not alcoholic!!!

what? dark chocolate is healthy.

2009-11-01T15:53:00.002-10:00

Sick of sweets the day after Halloween? Well, this sweet can be beneficial. I will give you a little tip on chocolate. If you are like me, any chocolate used to be just fine, but as I become more health conscious, I have even been making sure that my "treats" are not too, well,...junky!!

Stick to dark chocolates, most of them have the percent of cocoa printed on the bar, the higher the number the better. Look at the sugar content, it is alot lower in dark chocolates.

Also dark chocolates do not contain any dairy so you are getting more of the good stuff!!

Here's some enlightening info on America's #1 love:

Chocolate is made from plants, which means it contains many of the health benefits of dark vegetables. These benefits are from flavonoids, which act as antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the body from aging caused by free radicals, which can cause damage that leads to heart disease. Dark chocolate contains a large number of antioxidants (nearly 8 times the number found in strawberries). Flavonoids also help relax blood pressure through the production of nitric oxide, and balance certain hormones in the body.
Dark chocolate is good for your heart. A small bar of it everyday can help keep your heart and cardiovascular system running well. Two heart health benefits of dark chocolate are:

Lower Blood Pressure: Studies have shown that consuming a small bar of dark chocolate everyday can reduce blood pressure in individuals with high blood pressure.
Lower Cholesterol: Dark chocolate has also been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol) by up to 10 percent.

Other Benefits of Dark Chocolate:

Chocolate also holds benefits apart from protecting your heart:

it tastes good
it stimulates endorphin production, which gives a feeling of pleasure
it contains serotonin, which acts as an anti-depressant
it contains theobromine, caffeine and other substances which are stimulants

Doesn't Chocolate Have a lot of Fat?:

Here is some more good news -- some of the fats in chocolate do not impact your cholesterol. The fats in chocolate are 1/3 oleic acid, 1/3 stearic acid and 1/3 palmitic acid:

Oleic Acid is a healthy monounsaturated fat that is also found in olive oil.
Stearic Acid is a saturated fat but one which research is shows has a neutral effect on cholesterol.
Palmitic Acid is also a saturated fat, one which raises cholesterol and heart disease risk.

I SCORED these dark chocolate mint bars today from Down To Earth, for only 99 cents each!! I was so excited, they are normally almost 3.00 each! They are made with 72% cocoa made by a brand All-Natural. They donate 10% of their profits to help support species, habitat and humanity.I got seven, should of got more...

Here's the ingredients in this one:

bittersweet chocolate(chocolate liquor, unbleached filtered beet sugar, cocoa butter, soy lecithin, vanilla), natural mint.

sugar: 12grams for 1/2 the bar

Plus, dark chocolate is more pure, so you don't need a lot to satisfy your cravings!

So if you need a sweet snack, try some dark chocolate, you will sooner or later be hooked:)

~happy sweet, dentist-free day!

hair to "dye" for.

2009-10-30T21:05:00.003-10:00

Ughh..who likes white hair? But is what you are using to cover that safe? Let's talk about hair dyes. More than half of American women color their hair. But some research suggests that having "hair to die for" may well mean that.(excerpt from "Green Goes With Everything").

Here are some facts after doing a study on commercial hair dyes:

~women who used permanent hair color at least once a month for a year or longer were twice as much to develop bladder cancer as women who didn't use them.

~women who used permanent hair color for 15yr or more were more than 3x as likely to develop bladder cancer as women who didn't use them.

~Hairstylists and barbers with just one year or more of occupational exposure to permanent hair dyes were 50% more likely to have bladder cancer than those who didn't.

there are also other cancers related to prolong use of hair dyes.

The cause of these increased cancer rates is a chemical called p-phenylenediamine (PPD). It exists in virtually all commercial hair dyes. Ammonia and peroxide, which make it easier for hair color to penetrate hair, also pose dangers, mostly from skin irritation.

Here are some alternatives to use:

--Vegetal Colour, herbavita.co.nz

--Logona, logona.com

--Light Mountain Natural, iherb.com

--Naturcolor by Herbaceuticals, naturcolor.com

--Naturtint, www.naturalhairdye.com/color/naturtint/naturtintp/index.html

I use the brand, Naturtint, from Down to Earth (shown in picture) and it works perfectly fine. I used to use commercial hair dyes and they would literally BURN my head...that should have told me something a long time ago! I am so glad I switched! For as much times that I need to color my hair.. I want it to be safe for me.

give it a try.. please

~Be Well~

2009-10-29T19:05:00.000-10:00

I am an ingredient reader and have been noticing that a lot of food products contain an ingredient called "soy lecithin". I decided to do some research and find out exactly what it is.

Soy Lecithin: Where they come from

As mentioned, soy lecithin is one of the by-products of soybean processing. To produce lecithin, soybeans are kept and tempered at a consistent temperature and moisture for about a week in order to hydrate them and loosen the hull. The soybeans are then cleaned after a maximum of 10 days, cracked into small pieces and beans are separated from the hull, after which soybean oil is extracted through a careful distillation process. Once soybean oil is produced, Soya lecithin is then separated from the oil through the process of steam precipitation or centrifugation.

Facts about Lecithin

One of the most essential facts about lecithin that you have to know is that it is a complex mixture of phospholipids that naturally occurs in the body. Though it does have beneficial effects, lecithin is not an essential nutrient. It provides protection to the cell by facilitating the movement of fats, ions, wastes and nutrients in and out of the cell. It also keeps the cell structure strong and helps retain its shape.

One of the most popular uses of lecithin comes from its emulsifying properties. It is thus used for promoting solidity in margarine, as coating for chocolates and other food, to give consistent textures to creams and dressings, and to avoid oil splattering during frying. It has also been useful for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications and in other industries such as textiles, paints, waxes and lubricant.

Health Benefits of Lecithin

Lecithin has been used for a variety of health benefits. Soya lecithin (the commercial kind of lecithin) has been popular through the years as a supplement taken for the purpose of fighting cholesterol, supporting liver health, and promoting weight loss. Lecithin has been used by many people and has been the subject of numerous scientific studies.

Due to its use in facilitating cellular regulation, many scientists have surmised that lecithin may have significant effects in improving brain and memory function and in treating brain-related disorders including Alzheimer's, dementia, amnesia, among others.

Studies have shown that lecithin helps in the breakdown of cholesterol to small particles so that they do not tend to build up and collect in the walls of veins and arteries. Lecithin is also said to prevent fats from accumulating in the liver by keeping the fats dispersed in water.

Because it is rich in choline which increases the metabolism of fats, lecithin has been seen to be effective in weight loss. It helps in burning and in the breakdown of fats so that they do not get stored in the body, but used as a source of energy.

Lecithin Granules

Lecithin is available as food supplements in food and drug stores, in the form of capsules, powder or granules. Lecithin granules have been used for decades as a treatment method for people with high cholesterol and for those who want to lose weight.

So if you are allergic to soy this product must be avoided. I am not sure of the dangers or if there are any, but I will let you know after more research is done.
~Hope you learned something new today, I did!!

fevers. what do they mean.

2009-10-27T08:32:00.071-10:00

~At one time or another you or your child will have a fever. Before you rush to your medicine cabinet for Tylenol, please understand exactly what a fever is and what it means in your child's body:

What causes a childhood fever in kids?

Fever in infants and children is a natural defense against infectious agents: viral, bacterial or environmental. Most fevers are beneficial to a child and caused by viruses, with others caused by bacteria. Fevers are a raise in body temperature, which raises the white cell blood count which is a mechanism in fighting infection. Therefore a fever is a good infection fighter. These fevers usually don't exceed 104-105° and won't harm the infant or child according to doctors. First a foremost, keep your child HYDRATED with water.

Babies Under 3mos-fever over 101 should be sent to the hospital immed. something is going on

Children 3-18mos can tolerate a fever up to 103. But the fever should be managed. (see below for remedies to manage fevers naturally)

Dr. Robert Mendelsohn and Dr. William Sears state a fever doesn't damage until over 105°, but these are exceptionally rare, usually caused by toxins or heatstroke.

This is why many medical professionals are beginning to encourage parents to not rush fever suppressing drugs to their children. Even over-the-counter, fever-reducing drugs have toxic effects given in wrong doses and have been shown to prolong the fever-causing illness by suppressing the child's natural healing process.

So to put it straight, meds to bring fevers down stop your body from doing it's job. Of course in the case of babies or fevers that are just not going away, please see your doctor.

In most cases, your infant's fever should be left alone. Fever serves a very useful purpose and is the body's ally in fighting infection. There are a few natural remedies, however, that are safe for babies that will help your little one feel more comfortable.

What can I do to help a child's fever at home?

Herbs – Elder flower and yarrow increase sweating to help manage hot fevers, give them this in a tincture form, while ginger has warming effects to help manage fever with chills. Tea is an excellent way to administer herbs while keeping a feverish child hydrated and nourished. Helpful herbal teas for fever include chamomile, red clover, rosemary and peppermint. Lemon juice or honey can be added to the tea (never give honey to infants under one year).

Essential Oils – Lemon, lavender, eucalyptus, thyme, pine, rosemary and sage essential oils are beneficial for feverish children and also help support the immune system to support the body's defenses instead of suppressing them. Drop some lavender essential oil in cool water and use a washrag to wipe a child's forehead for a cooling, relaxing effect.

Garlic also has antibacterial properties. If your baby is older than 9 months, you can make a batch of chicken broth with garlic, and serve it to your baby.

Ginger tea can help with a fever. It's also great for stomachaches. Ginger has warming properties and is wonderful for babies who are chilled. Make a weak tea with grated fresh ginger. If your infant is over one year of age, add a drop of honey to sweeten.

Enemas-when done correctly enemas can be totally beneficial to bring fevers down especially when your child will not drink anything.Using a bulb syringe filled with a tablespoon of purified water and a pinch of salt, lubricate the tip with butter and administer 1tbsp per every hour. DO NOT over fill the bowel.

**Tinctures can be purchased at Down to Earth or any health store, make sure when buying them for children, look for ones that are made with glycerin which is a natural sweetener and not ones made with alcohol, those are much more potent and not so great tasting.

When any of my boys have a cold or fever, I immediately give them a tincture of mixed herbs that contain echinacia, elderberry and yarrow at least 4x per day and try to keep them as comfortable as possible and drinking lots of water. Try to stay away from too much juices,it will raise their sugar levels and suppress the immune system.

~be fever free, be well!!