Lisa's Cancer Story!

In 2003, my sister was diagnosed with endometrium cancer. Her doctors told her that this cancer would possibly kill her!

Thankfully, several months prior to the diagnoses, we had suggested that she begin to watch "Your Health" on Family Net. Because of this she had changed her eating habits, was drinking plenty of clean water, and had taken sugar out of her diet.

She had the surgery to remove a large tumor (which was in her uterus and had attached itself to her tail bone) and a cluster of tumors on one of her ovaries. The removal of a lymph node showed possible cancer in other parts of her body. Her doctors stressed to her the need for chemo and radiation. Telling her again "This cancer will kill you!"

After the surgery it was time for the family to get involved. Of course we kept watching "Your Health" as we had done for the last several year and relaying as much information as possible.

As mentioned earlier, Doug Kaufmann was the host at that time. But he often included regulars Dr. Dave Holland and Jami Clark R. N. (Certified in Chemotherapy). Dr. Patrick Quillan (former nutritional director of Cancer Centers of America) was also occasionally on the show.

When Doug Kaufmann was the host of "Your Health" the theme of the show was the relationship of Fungus/Yeast to modern illness…even cancer.

We bought Doug’s book "The Germ That Causes Cancer", and Dr. Quillan’s book "Beating Cancer with Nutrition" along with "Foundations for Healing" by Dr. Richard Becker who at that time was also a frequent guest of the show.

Feeling armed with enough information she decided to take the 28 radiation treatments but at her doctor’s reluctance refused the Chemo. She even had to change doctors because he told her she could not take vitamins, herbs or supplements during radiation. He scoffed at changing her diet and taking out sugar, saying that their was no scientific evidence that sugar fed cancer and shaking his head as if it was crazy to suggest such a thing.

She continued her diet, staying on it better than anyone. Very Strict. She ate absolutely no sugar, processed foods or trans fats, etc. She’s takes Vibe, (a liquid vitamin/mineral formula) Beta Glucan, IP6, Wheat Grass Supplement, Probiotics, Psyllium Fiber, Omega 3 fatty acids, Olive Leaf Extract, alternating with Capryllic Acid, and continues drinking filtered water. She’s exercising (walking daily) and has lost 60 pounds (that she wanted to lose) and feeling better than she did 20 years ago.

During the radiation treatments the nurses couldn’t believe she wasn’t having any side effects and was looking so healthy. But we know that it is her love of God and prayer (which is a big part of her life) and the proper nutrition and supplements, which kept the radiation from ravaging her body.

After the radiation treatments, her new doctor still pressed her to take the Chemo. After discussing the diet and nutritional supplements she was taking and again her desire not to do the chemo, he suggested she have a Pet-Cat scan to check for signs of cancer.

The Pet-Cat scan showed no Cancer…Halleluiah!

Today she is continues with a healthy diet and no sugar. This is a way of living now, one that brought her back from the brink. She is sure of that!

For those of you still unsure whether you believe that sugar feeds cancer, a Pet Cat Scan is radioactive glucose (sugar) injected into the body. Humm…Interesting!

Otto Warburg won a Nobel Prize for proving that SUGAR FEEDS CANCER over 75 years ago, although you'd be hard pressed to find a doctor who is aware of this information. It's time for people to wake up and realize that they must take their health into their own hands. Health care in the USA is a business designed to keep folks in a revolving door and is NOT about health at all.
Update: 7-08 It's been 5 years since her cancer surgery. Lisa just had another visit to her doctor and another pet scan. Her results were amazing! Still no sign of cancer and she is looking and feeling better than ever.

At her appointment the doctor confided again that her cancer was as bad as it gets and told her she really should have died. She shared again all that she had been doing and he told her to keep it up.

Manufacturing Sickness Through The Food Supply

Have you ever considered just how much our diets have changes over the last 50 to 100 years, or how much our health is connected to the types of food we consume. With the majority of us eating on the run and looking for a quick way to produce a meal for our families, we thought it would be interesting to take a look at the modern diet. Without doing a lot of research to substantiate the exact date of introduction into the food supply, lets take a look at the approximate time frame of some of our most common food items.

If my memory serves me right, most neighborhoods started seeing an influx of McDonalds and other fast food restaurants somewhere around the mid nineteen seventies. Sure there were some McDonalds and other fast food joints before this time, but we’re talking about when this industry started to become mainstream. Early to mid seventies just about hits it right!

Soda drinking falls along the same lines as the fast food industry. There is no doubt that sodas were created much earlier, but when did it become commonplace to consume this sugary beverage on a daily basis? It was around 1965 that soda’s “previously thought of as occasional treats” were dispensed in cans from vending machines. Today, sodas account for at least a third of the liquid consumed in the US. On average a 12 oz can of soda, is equivalent to 10 teaspoons of sugar. When you consider that many people drink them non-stop throughout the day, that’s a lot of sugar.

In the early 20th Century sugar consumption averaged about 5 pounds a year. Today according to the Department of Agriculture, that number is estimated at anywhere between 140 to 170 lbs a year. That’s alarming! Refined sugar contains no vitamins or minerals. It has zero nutritional value. Since the body is self regulating, it will call upon its own stores of micro-nutrients in order to assist the body in metabolizing sugar into the system. Sugar also suppresses the immune system, and contributes to just about every illness known to man.

Monosodium Glutamate has been used with increasing regularity since it’s introduction into the food supply some 50 years ago. You’d be hard pressed not to find this additive in most processed/boxed foods and many canned products as well. Fast food restaurants have also notoriously been a source of this chemical additive. MSG's only value to the food industry is that it makes food taste appealing, causing folks to eat more. Evidence has shown that animals fed MSG become obese and prone to type 2 diabetes.

The artificial sweetener Aspartame entered into the food supply in the early 1980’s. Its use in diet soda’s and other diet products accounts for 75% of the adverse reactions to food additives reported to the FDA. Products that contain aspartame can include anything from instant breakfasts drinks and other beverages, cereals, desserts, candies, supplements, pharmaceutical drugs, sugar free products and much more.

Both MSG and Aspartame are excitotoxins. They over stimulates neuron receptors in the brain that allow brain cells to communicate with one another. This over stimulation causes them to die, and can result in brain damage. Science has shown that exposing the brain to these substances can produce symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Use of these products have also been linked to cancer.

Antibiotics came into wide spread use in the 1950’s. In the 1960’s they were introduced in livestock production. Today 3 million lbs of antibiotics are utilized for humans per year, while approximately 25 million lbs are used on livestock There is evidence that this over consumption of antibiotics in animals (as well as humans) is contributing to bacterial resistance. Taking antibiotics also decreases your “good bacterial army” which accounts for 75% of your immune system. This assault can leave you open to additional infections and yeast overgrowth which can result in ever declining health. Yeast overgrowth is often called the great mimicker because it can imitate many diseases.

But lets say you eat a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables and only the best of meat, poultry and fish. Evidence has shown the our soils are depleted in trace minerals.
This mineral depletion existed in the early part of the last century, as evidenced by the US Senate Document 264, 74th Congress in 1936 Second Session.

Here is a partial quote from that document:

“It is bad news to learn from our leading authorities that 99% of the American people are deficient in these minerals, and that a marked deficiency in any one of the more important minerals actually results in disease. Any upset of the balance, any considerable lack of one or another element, however microscopic the body requirement may be, and we sicken, suffer, shorten our lives.”

A recent article on ABC News by Megan Carpenter validated this continuing trend when the article revealed that “recently grown crops have shown decreases of up to 38 percent in protein, calcium, vitamin C, phosphorus, iron and riboflavin when compared with produce from past decades.”

When you consider other food additives, radiation, pesticides, nitrates, trans fat and hydrogenated fats along with the changes in agriculture, food processing and lifestyle there is no wonder why people are dealing with the explosion of health conditions that we are today. Are we manufacturing sickness! You bet we are!

US Senate Document 264 from the 74th Congress in 1936 Second Session

Our physical well-being is more directly dependent upon minerals we take into our systems than upon calories or vitamins, or upon precise proportions of starch, protein or carbohydrates we consume.

Do you know that most of us today are suffering from certain dangerous diet deficiencies which cannot be remedied until depleted soils from which our food comes are brought into proper mineral balance?

The alarming fact is that foods, fruits and vegetables and grains, now being raised on millions of acres of land that no longer contains enough of certain needed minerals, are starving us-no matter how much of them we eat! No man of today can eat enough fruits and vegetables to supply his system with the minerals he requires for perfect health because his stomach isn't big enough to hold them.

The truth is that our foods vary enormously in value, and some of them aren't worth eating as food...Our physical well-being is more directly dependent upon the minerals we take into our systems than upon calories or vitamins or upon the precise proportions of starch, protein or carbohydrates we consume.

This talk about minerals is novel and quite startling. In fact, a realization of the importance of minerals in food is so new that the text books on nutritional dietetics contain very little about it. Nevertheless, it is something that concerns all of us, and the further we delve into it the more startling it becomes.

You'd think, wouldn't you, that a carrot is a carrot-that one is about as good as another as far as nourishment is concerned? But it isn't; one carrot may look and taste like another and yet be lacking in the particular mineral element which our system requires and which carrots are supposed to contain.

Laboratory tests prove that the fruits, the vegetables, the grains, the eggs, and even the milk and the meats of today are not what they were a few generations ago (which doubtless explains why our forefathers thrived on a selection of foods that would starve us!)

No man of today can eat enough fruits and vegetables to supply his stomach with the mineral salts he requires for perfect health, because his stomach isn't big enough to hold them! And we are running too big stomachs.

No longer does a balanced and fully nourishing diet consist merely of so many calories or certain vitamins or a fixed proportion of starches, proteins and carbohydrates. We know that our diet must contain in addition something like a score of mineral salts.

It is bad news to learn from our leading authorities that 99% of the American people are deficient in these minerals, and that a marked deficiency in any one of the more important minerals actually results in disease. Any upset of the balance, any considerable lack of one or another element, however microscopic the body requirement may be, and we sicken, suffer, shorten our lives.

We know that vitamins are complex chemical substances which are indispensable to nutrition, and that each of them is of importance for the normal function of some special structure in the body. Disorder and disease result from any vitamin deficiency. It is not commonly realized, however that vitamins control the body's appropriation of minerals, and in the absence of mineral's they have no function to perform. Lacking vitamins, the system can make some use of minerals, but lacking minerals, vitamins are useless.

Certainly our physical well-being is more directly dependent upon the minerals we take into our systems than upon calories or vitamins or upon the precise proportions of starch, protein or carbohydrates we consume." This discovery is one of the latest and most important contributions of science to the problems of human health.

Improve Your Eating Habits

1. Water. If you’re thirsty you’re already dehydrated. The majority of us don’t tend to drink enough during the day. If you drink a lot of tea and coffee to keep you going then these have a diuretic effect so you should be drinking water to compensate.

Have a glass of water first thing in the morning and last thing at night – your body loses a lot of water while you’re asleep – not only if it’s warm and you sweat a lot but just going 8 hours (if you’re so lucky) without food or drink it’s going to be dehydrated.

Dehydration can also be mistaken for hunger – have a glass of water first before reaching for a snack or eating a meal.

2. Fruit & Veg. Fruit and vegetables provide you with vitamins, minerals and fibre to help keep your body healthy. Eat a piece of fruit or drink fresh juice for breakfast. Fresh berries on muesli or porridge or cereal. Have fruit as a snack during the day and salad and vegetables with your main meals.

If you can, buy organic and wash fruit and vegetables before eating unless your peeling them. Pesticide residues are more likely to remain on the skin and fruits such as apples are often treated in storage.

3. Avoid processed food. With the increased reliance on ready-prepared meals, take-aways and convenience food to save time there is an increase in the amount of processed food that people eat.

Before you buy that convenience meal – check the label. How much sugar, salt, hydrogenated fat, E preservatives, colouring does it contain? Because it’s processed – a lot of the flavour and goodness is lost and has to be added. Because it needs to survive transport, increased shelf-life and cooking fats and preservatives are added. And how much does it really cost. Cooking simple meals such as stir-fries and casseroles are just as convenient and so much better for you.

4. Fresh Juice. One great way to kick-start your day and gently wake up your digestive system is to have a fresh juice every morning. I don’t mean orange juice with your breakfast but fresh vegetable juices. Invest in a good juicer, buy local organic produce and find out how good fresh juice is.

An easy recipe you can have every day is one apple, one carrot (peeled), stick of celery, cube of ginger and thick slice of lemon (remove rind).

5. Fish. Eat fish at least once a week. It contains healthy Omega 3 oils, which are good for your joints, and nerves. Flax and hemp oils offer an alternative for non-fish eaters.

6. Eat regularly. Get into the habit of eating breakfast. Your body has been without food over night – break the fast with a glass of fresh juice (see above) and then a healthy bowl of cereal, muesli or porridge (avoid those loaded with salt and sugar). Try to eat every 2-3 hours – little and often – to avoid your blood sugar levels fluctuating too much. Don’t eat a heavy meal late in the evening. Your body will naturally be slowing down at that time and food eaten late is more likely to be stored as fat.

7. Alcohol. There’s nothing wrong with the odd glass of wine, in fact these days it’s seen to be healthy for the anti-oxidants it contains. Excess alcohol causes your kidneys and liver to work overtime to rid the body of the toxins. Know your limits and drink water to help your body eliminate the toxins.

8. Sugar and Salt. These two ingredients are added to most processed food. They add flavour and act as a preservative but they can be present even in foods you don't expect or are labeled in ways that you don't recognise. Sugar is empty calories, in it's basic form it contains little nutritional value. Natural sugars found in fruits and vegetables are all you need. Avoid adding sugar to food and drinks and avoid synthetic replacements. Watch your salt limits too.

9. Know what you’re eating. Be aware of the food that you’re putting in your body. Read the food labels if you buy tinned, processed produce to be aware of how much salt, sugar and fat is in the food you buy. Buy organic meat whenever possible to avoid the steroids, hormones and anti-biotics that are in factory farmed meat. Know how much sugar, salt and fat you should be eating.

10. Balanced diet. One of the most important ways to improve your eating habits is to have a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables, whole food, fish and meat, nuts and seeds. Everything in moderation. Keep fatty and sugary foods low but if you enjoy chocolate, cakes and curries there’s nothing wrong with having one once in a while.

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If you’d like help in putting some structure in place to organise your health – contact me through my website. Clare Evans – Do more of what you want, less of what you don’t. http://www.clareevans.co.uk.

Clare is a Personal and Business Coach who works with individuals and small business owners to help them organise their time more effectively and create a better work life balance - enabling them to spend more time doing what they want and less time doing what they don't. Contact me today to find out how to create balance in your life.
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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Clare_Evans
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Aspartame: A Toxic Choice!

Aspartame: What you need to know!

There has been a great deal of controversy circulating on the internet as of late, regarding aspartame. Even with this the news and media seem for the most part to keep the damaging effects of this artificial sweetener under wraps.

However the information that we’ve seen points to a very toxic and possibly lethal substance which for many reasons has managed to get the approval of the FDA.

There seems to be a conspiracy of sorts to keep us from being informed about the dangers of this poison. But after more than 20 years of aspartame use, the public is beginning to discover for themselves that aspartame is at the root of many of their health problems.

Sold commercially as Equal or Nutra Sweet, and owned by Monsanto, this artificial sweetener was hailed as a solution for those trying to lose weight and refrain from sugar.

But the negative effects that people have reported vary. Symptoms such as memory loss, slurred speech, hyperactivity, rashes, anxiety and seizures along with fibromyalgia, MS, just to name a few adverse reactions reported to the FDA. Seizures are common among aspartame users but it is headaches that are the most common complaint.

Although pregnant women and children under 7 are cautioned not to us this sweetener, it is becoming clear that the general public should be warned against its use, since it appears this product will not be removed anytime soon.

According to FDA spokesman Thomas Wilcox, “…the reports to the FDA aren’t sufficient to warrant a change in the product’s classification ” Even though 75% of the adverse reactions to food additives reported to the FDA are from Aspartame.

Aspartame is owned by the Monsanto Corporation which funds among others, the American Diabetes Association, The American Dietetic Association, and the conference of the American College of Physicians.

Since these associations take money from the Monsanto Co. they must endorse their products and therefore can not criticize this additive or convey any link to the Company.

According to an article on Mercola.com
There are over 90 different health side effects associated with aspartame consumption including: brain tumors, birth defects, diabetes, emotional disorders and epilispsy/seizures, chronic fatigue syndrome, and fibromyalgia.

Further, when aspartame is stored for long periods of time or kept in warm areas it changes to methanol, an alcohol that converts to formaldehyde and formic acid, which are known carcinogens.

Arthritis: Secret Foods Not To Eat

This article was written by a friend of ours who cured her arthritis and wrote a book about it. If you would like to get her book or reports please contact Darlene or Doug directly at 502-363-0101
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This is going to open a new world to you. You will be making some food changes and it will change your pain level. When you follow the program as I did you should get pain relief within weeks, or less.

Here is a short version of what you should and should not eat. Since everyone is different you may want to refer to my book to see exactly what it is you are eating that is causing you so much pain.

For most arthritics the things I am asking you to give up, FOR YOUR OWN GOOD are:

Salt: Just no salt.

Coffee: More than one cup is not good for you. Decaf is much, much worse and you should NOT drink anything that says decaf on it. More than 4 cups a day of coffee and the rate for heart attacks in men increases to 50%. I don't know for women but I suspect it is close to that.

Soda/Pop: No sodas, anything that says diet, sugar free, or decaffeinated or Lite.

Flour: You should not eat flour of any kind. Please give it up for at least 3 weeks and see how you feel. If you then want to add it back into your diet use the method described in the book. Please stop eating all white flour. It s KILLING YOU.
For the free report "Why while flour is an abomination and is killing you".

No Sugar Of Any Kind: You can have a wee amount of real honey that is unprocessed and raw. If it is not unprocessed, do not buy it. The best source is the health food store or local beekeeper. Look for him in the yellow pages. If you absolutely have to have a sweetener use Steva. ALL others are VERY BAD for you. Some have been known to cause cancer.

No Dairy Products: Cheese, Yogurt, Cottage Cheese, etc. You CAN have Real Butter and Real Cream. They will should not hurt you.

WHAT YOU CAN HAVE

Tea: You can have herbal teas, and green teas.

Meats: At least 70 grams of meat protein a day. Chicken, fish, pork, turkey, seafood, tuna, salmon etc.

Eggs: They really are a perfect food. After all they have all it takes to make a chicken!

Vegetables: You will test vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes (most people with arthritis can not tolerate those two vegetables) Green and orange vegetables are marvelous. Try to introduce a new one from the market every time you go. Try vegetables from other countries. Onions and garlic and all seasonings are fine. Just no salt. You can get salt-free seasonings at a health food market.

Fruits: They are touchy. I ask you to do the fruit fast, but if the first day you find the pains are greater than you simple cannot tolerate fruits that are mostly sugar. Here are good fruits. Grapefruit, kiwis, berries, but not strawberries. You can have them fresh or frozen or canned. Just read the label and make sure no sugar is added.

Do not eat: Bananas, peaches, oranges, pineapple, pears, and melons of any kind,or any fruit that is sweet. At least not until your pain is better or gone and then follow my book on introducing new foods.

Drink: 8 glasses of water with the lemon to taste. Keep reminding yourself, "You have a degenerative disease and since degenerative diseases are caused by our eating habits, our way of life and the air we breathe, we can make changes to restore our immune system." Our immune system will heal us when we feed it properly. Your health, good or bad, is in your hands.

I am here to help YOU to help yourself to a pain free and healthy life style.

Best of Health,
Margie

10 Easy Steps to True Healthy Living!

We realize just how difficult it is to maintain a good level of health in our society today. We are bombarded with stress (due to the daily responsibilities of life) and toxins (both in our food and our environment) that put a burden on our bodies and our spirits.

It’s difficult to find time to eat responsibly, exercise, rest and recharge in order to nourish our bodies, our spirit, and our soul. But these things must be changed if we want to experience good health. Therefore, we decided to develop the steps that we believe are beneficial to True Healthy Living! Share them with your family and friends! We Do!!

Step 1. Changing our belief system:

We have been trained from birth to believe authority figures. First our parents, then teachers, police and government officials etc. Because our parents took care of us, loved us, and had our best interest at heart, we developed a belief system that those in authority also have our best interest at heart. It becomes second nature to believe that if "THEY" said it, it must be true.

But IS IT!

We tend to believe what is advertised to us through the media. If it’s on television, in the newspaper or magazine, or it says so on the box or bottle it comes in, we tend to believe, sometimes subconsciously, that it’s good for us. So the question is, has this belief in authority widened to include commercials for food, drink and pharmaceutical drug ads?

Is the answer…YES!

Doctor prescribed drugs advertised on TV! How could anyone let this happen? To allow comsumers to pick and choose what drugs to take, is the height of irresponsible governmental behavior. You must see how absurd this is. Anyone who can’t see the influence of power and money must have on blinders.

Maybe it’s time to take back our power, and become more educated and informed, so that we can change what we believe.

Step 2. Eating responsibly:

Eating responsibly is extremely difficult in our fast paced society. Most of us have become accustomed to eating what ever is convenient and suites our taste, not worrying about whether it good or bad for our health.

Relying on processed or fast food for our daily diet has been proven to lead to many chronic diseases. Most of these foods are lacking in vital nutrients and contain an over abundance of sugars, artificial sweeteners and man made chemical additives that in the long run are detrimental to our health.

There are numerous studies and research that reflects that most disease is caused by what we do and do not eat.

Becoming knowledgeable about processed and fast food and their ill effects is an absolute must if you want to keep you and your family healthy. The condition of health in our American society has become a disgrace. Truth and knowledge is empowering.

For more click the next list of articles.

• Manufacturing Sickness Through The Food Supply
• The Detrimental Effects of Sugar!
• MSG…Obesity, Food Addictions, and Bad Health!
• What’s this about Antioxidants?
• Eating Healthy is Difficult!
• Transfats are bad!

Meat …clean (chicken, turkey, fish, beef)
1) Try to limit red meat. 2) Eat grass fed or organically raised/no antibiotics or hormones if possible. 3) Stay away from processed lunchmeat w/added preservatives. 4) No breading. Grilled or baked is healthier for you.

We know this is not always possible. In fact, finding wholesome, grass fed products may be difficult. However, you might try your nearest health food store. We have Wild Oats Natural Market Place and Whole Foods Market nearby and they do sell a healthier product. Or you may want to check out http://www.eatwild.com/ for an organic farm near you.

Vegetables…a colorful array of raw or steamed is best. (read our article, What's this about Antioxidants) very important.
Fruit …a wide variety daily (loaded with vitamins and minerals)
Nuts…like almonds, walnuts, brazil nuts, etc. (loaded with protein, essential fats, and fiber and other nutrients)
Whole grain breads & cereals…must be whole grain not just wheat bread (It’s best to stay away from white bread and white flour products)

Step 3. Drink more water:

This is one of the simpliest things we can do to improve our health. Our body needs water for every bodily function. Without it we would die. Many times when we feel bad or hungry, it’s our body’s cry for water.

It is recommended that we drink at least 8 to 10, 8oz. cups each day. Drinking tap water is not recommended since chlorine and other chemicals are not good for our systems over the long haul.

You can drink spring or filtered water. You don’t have to buy an expensive filtration system. The Brita or Pur pitchers, or the type that attach to your faucet are just fine. (Read our article, The Numerous Benefits of Water)

Step 4. Responsible vitamin and mineral supplementation:

Even though it’s a must to eat plenty of nutritional whole foods (not processed junk food), it is recommended that we take good quality supplements to assist our diets with optimal nutrients.

This is a recommended step that has assisted many of our friends and relatives lead healthier lives and has helped some, come back from the brink of disaster (read our article, Do We Really Need Vitamins and Minerals. We must all educate ourselves in order to responsibly take supplements. Don’t settle for less than the best. For the comprehensive answer to your vitamin/mineral needs you need to look no further than Vibe by Eniva.

For more info on Vibe you can click here!

Want even more info or to hear testimonials click here!

A specific need click here for Eniva's other products!

Note: Eniva members get an immediate 20% off the retail price of all items purchased, and there is No sign up fee or minimum order!

To order by phone call 1-866-999-9191. Just tell the representative who answers the phone that you are a new Preferred customer ordering under ID #226552.

Here is our daily regimen:

• Vibe by Eniva. A great tasting whole food vitamin/mineral tonic.
  
• Omega 3- fatty acid (fish oil or salmon oil, cod liver oil in the winter months)
• Whey protein supplement (with low sugar content and no artificial sweeteners). A good way to get extra protein, especially while on an exercise program.
• Probiotics, to replenish the good bacteria in our intestinal tract. They support our immune system. (Read our article, Probiotics…The key to good health)
  Very, important!

Always discuss taking supplements with your Doctor.

Step 5. Exercise.

Some health experts refer to exercise as the good drug. That’s right, it has so many health enhancing qualities, that we believe it should be covered by insurance. Healthcare cost would be substantially reduced and lives would be improved, if everyone exercised. It is a requirement for good health. (Read our article, The Importance Of Exercise)

Of course, always check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.

Step 6. Education and Prevention:

We must find the time to educate ourselves about health, because our doctor is not responsible for our well being. We are!! Not taking responsibility leaves us open to illness and the possibility of countless prescription drugs. These only mask the symptoms of disease. We must change! We owe it to ourselves and our families.

Step 7. Spirituality:

We believe, that we must find our spiritual balance in whatever way is right for each of us. This nourishing of our spirit and soul can sustain us in times of trouble, on our journey through life. The use of prayer, meditation, silence or whatever is suitable for you is an important practice in health and well being. It gives us a sense of balance of mind, body and spirit.

Step 8. Sleep:

Our bodies require quality sleep in order to recuperate, rebound, and recharge. Most of us require approximately 8 to 10 hours of quality sleep a night in order to stay healthy. And the hours between 10 and 2 are very important. It is during these hours that our bodies recharge the adrenals and endocrine glands, repair tissue and detoxify the body and various other duties. Not getting enough sleep can put us at risk for serious illness. So rest, relax and sleep as needed. It really will pay off in the long run with more energy and good health.

Step 9. Sunshine:

We thrive when we are exposed to sunshine. Getting 15 to 20 minutes of responsible sun exposure each day is good for you. It's in fact, health promoting. The sun promotes vitamin D (the sunshine vitamin) production in the body and has a broad therapeutic benefit for the body in general (read our article, Sunlight! ...Our Battery Charger For Life!)

Step 10. Fresh air and deep breathing:

Fresh air is something that most of us don’t get enough of on a daily basis. We are cooped up at work, school or home etc. taking care of our responsibilities, and breathing stale air most of the time. Even though we may not consider the environment as optimal these days. We still need to get outdoors as much as possible.

Learn to breath deep. Many of us breath shallow all of the time. The trillions of cells in our bodies need oxygen. Breath deeply and fill those lungs with life enhancing oxygen to assist your body in creating an aerobic environment that breeds good health. It will also assist your metabolism in becoming more efficient at burning calories and it helps to obtain a long term natural weight loss.

This information is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. It is for informational purposes only. Always consult your Doctor.

We sure hope you can utilize these 10 steps to True Healthy Living! Incorporate them into your lifestyle. I’m sure they can assist you and your loved ones live a life of good health.

Please feel free to send us your comments or questions. We look forward to hearing from you. Email: dar7726@aol.com

Secrets to a restful nights sleep

Just how many of us are getting the recommended 6-8 hours of sleep? If you fall asleep, can you stay asleep throughout the night? With the amount of prescription sleep aids sold in this country it appears that many of us are having difficulty meeting our sleep requirements.

Getting approximately 8 hours of sleep is crucial for a healthy immune system and a must to regulate our hormones. Poor sleep habits increase accidents, affect memory, eating habits and the ability to deal with stress. Lack of sleep also contributes to symptoms of chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia and accelerates aging.

Are you one of the 82 million who experience these common symptoms:

• Wake up feeling un-refreshed
  
• Have difficulty falling asleep
  
• Wake up early and are not able to get back to sleep
  
• Waking frequently during the night
  

Is taking a sleep medication like Ambien and Lunesta the answer? Recently there have been multiple reports of bizarre behavior with no conscious recollection of their actions, by folks taking these prescription sleep aids. Some report that they have felt drugged the next day and attribute their corresponding car accidents to the taking of these types of medications. These hazardous behaviors may indicate that the long term effects of taking these types of drugs may be worse than the original problem.

So what can you do to gain a good nights sleep:
Develop a sleep routine. Going to bed early and at the same time every night helps to assist your body in gaining a handle on restful sleep. You get twice the benefit from the sleep you acquire between the hours of 10 pm to midnight than those gained after 12 am.
Daily exercise reduces stress and assists in getting a good nights sleep. Studies have shown that 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise has a profound influence on the ablity to obtain satisfying sleep. Be sure to exercise 5 to 6 hours before bedtime to allow the body time to cool down.

Removing yourself from stimulating activities such as watching television and working at the computer is a must to allow the body and brain to relax. Adding lavender oil on your pillow at night creates a wonderful yet calming aroma. Drinking Chamomile tea also helps with relaxation and promotes restful sleep. Listening to soothing music, reading (non-invigorating material), journaling, stretching, deep breathing, sleeping in a completely dark room, taking a warm bath, burning your favorite incense, avoiding stimulates and not eating late at night, are some additional tips to assist you in regaining deep, restful sleep.

Natural sleep formulas that include valerian, hops, kava kava, lemon balm, scullcap, wild lettuce and passion flower are just some of the most popular natural sleep remedies that have been used for many years. Magnesium and calcium are also beneficial to those looking for a solution to their sleep issues.

When all else fails you may want to try massage, acupuncture, cranial sacral manipulation or EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique).

I would like to make clear, that there is a direct relationship between

Why are more people overweight these days!

Have you noticed that more and more people are gaining weight easily these days?

What’s up with that!

We DO NOT believe that people are just gluttons. There has to be more to it. We’ve read that as many as 60 to 70% of the population is over weight, 35% are obese. The population in general is probably more sedentary than in the past, even though every time you turn on the TV there is an advertisement for an exercise video. And with all of the TV stations at our disposal, I’m sure people are exercising less and watching television more often.

Yep that’s part of it!

Then of course there’s fast food! Lets examine this more closely.

American corporations are notorious for pulling out 99% of the nutrients in food. Could it be that we’re just hungry! Could it be that we are eating more and more to satisfy what the body needs, only to find that the nutrients are not there. Could this lack of nutrients cause us to unconsciously eat even more?

We’ve written about MSG before! It’s in a majority of fast foods and boxed foods. Eating foods containing MSG causes us to crave more of these same foods but leaves us feeling unnourished.

The high SALT content in these foods also causes food cravings. Refined salt (normal table salt) is striped of its valuable nutrients and is 95% Sodium Chloride. When we eat refined salt our bodies expect to receive the 21 essential minerals and other lesser elements found in SEA SALT. Since these elements are not present our bodies crave more food.

Even if we ate right from the garden, can we guarantee that the nutrients were in the soil to begin with? It takes 76 nutrients daily to maintain health. Are these nutrients in the soil? Can the body rely on phosphorous, nitrogen and potassium (most often used in fertilizers found on factory farms) for perfect health?

Oh…and what about the amount of sugar we consume. Refined carbohydrates can be found in processed foods that are high in sugar. Refined sugar and these high glycemic foods cause a surge in blood sugar, which is then stored in the muscle and if not used, turn to fat.

Fruits, vegetables and whole grains do not cause a spike in blood sugar.

Often you hear people talking about cutting out carbs, assuming that a carb is a carb is a carb!But all carbohydrates are not the same. It’s the processed foods (refined carbohydrates) and simple sugars that are the problem. We need to be reducing our intake of white bread, fast foods, boxed foods, and pasta.

Changing our eating habits, to include smaller more frequent meals that include fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats and fish is a start. Adding exercise, clean water (at least 8 cups a day), and appropriate sleep (going to bed late has been connected to weight gain as those who go to bed late, eat later) is also important.

We must take back the control that we have given away. We can no longer believe that because a certain food is on the shelf at the store, or that a food additive is included in a box or can that it is ok to eat.

Although we have not known the devastating effects of these FAKE FOODS in the past, we now must become informed consumers. YOU HAVE NOW BEEN WARNED! No seriously. We are paying for it (in a BIG WAY… PUN INTENDED) when we eat these foods without consideration for what they do, within the body!

What should we really invest in!

I was listening to the radio recently and two politicians were discussing how important it was for college students to study finance and learn how to save and invest. This, they said, would help make them successful.

This is great, but what about educating our students on how to really become successful in life. What about learning about how to eat properly and stay healthy. This addition to education could save us a ton of pain and suffering…and in the long run save money, both individually and as a nation.

Did you know that one of the major causes of bankruptcy is medical bills? And most of those who file bankruptcy due to a medical situation, have medical insurance. Is that not staggering?
We are encouraged to begin our adult life by getting a college education and/or a great job. Some of us start a wonderful family and buy a nice home. We may believe that the world is at our finger tips, and that we’re unstoppable. We’ve spent years building the life we always wanted then suddenly bad health creeps up on us.

Chronic illness is occurring earlier and earlier these days. And not just in our senior years any more. There are young people in their teens, twenties and thirties with Obesity, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, cancer, etc…need I go on? All these illnesses are not just floating around in the air waiting for some poor unsuspecting soul to jump into and ravage with sickness.

Friends, please wake up! It may be what’s in our food. That’s right! In those colorful boxes and cans on the grocery shelves. The food industry has made our food look appealing and last longer, but at what cost or should I say whose cost.

Take our meats for example.

There’s a chemical ingredient included in some of our meat products called sodium nitrate. It’s in lunch meat, like bologna, salami, ham, hot dogs, sausage, and bacon etc. It’s not recognized by our body as a food, but our system has to deal with it just the same. Therefore it’s a metabolic disruptor. Research has proven that when ingested it forms carcinogenic (cancer causing) compounds called nitrosamines.
Ingesting these compounds over and over for years can become problematic and cause disease.

Let’s look at processed foods that line our grocery store shelves. They look great, smell great, and taste great. But, they’re devoid of various vital nutrients and enzymes, making many of them, incomplete foods. However, many people depend on them for the bulk of their diet.

Many of these foods contain trans fatty acids, hydrogenated oils, dyes, preservatives, msg, artificial sweeteners, sugar…need we go on? Eating this way long enough is a sure way to end up with chronic disease. We’ve made reference to the term before… overfed and undernourished…It really doesn’t need to be this way.

These food ingredients (approved for human consumption) can play havoc with our health. There are many doctors, researchers, nutritionist, and health professionals that have written books on this subject (check the internet, library, and bookstores).

So, no matter what education level you have, if you want to INVEST in your health and your families futures, be sure to educate yourselves about diet, health and exercise.

Of course it is beneficial to study finance, saving and investing. However, if you really want to invest in your future, and your family’s future, good health should be a top priority. Please don’t forget that you can have all the wealth, riches and power the world has to offer, but without your health, everything else will be short lived…if you get our drift.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids…Why are they so Important

While health experts argue the benefits of some health supplements, the evidence continues to mount in favor of fish oil. Fish and fish oil supplements supply us with the Omega 3 fatty acids that are needed for heart and brain health. Even the American Heart Association strongly endorses the use of fish oil for cardiovascular health. Why? Because those with diets rich in Omega 3 fats are less likely to have high blood pressure or irregular heart rhythms, and are less likely to die from heart attacks or strokes.

Omega 3 fatty acids are also beneficial for brain health. The human brain is more than sixty percent structural fat. But, the type of fat needed for the brain to function properly is Omega 3 fatty acids. According to recent research, decreasing your intake of Omega 6 fats (primarily vegetable oils) along with increasing Omega 3 fatty acids, reduces the risk of depression, aggressive behavior, attention deficit disorder, schizophrenia and lowers your risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Other current studies with Omega 3 fats have shown benefits with regards to cancer, inflammatory diseases, diabetes and other health related conditions.

Of course we all know that there are good fats and bad fats. Any artificially produced fat, called transfats are not good for us and saturated fats should always be kept at a minimum.

But there is a type of fat called EFA’s (Essential Fatty Acids) that are not only good for you but essential for normal growth and development. Furthermore, your body can’t manufacture them, so you must get them from your diet. Essential Fatty Acids are polyunsaturated and are grouped into Omega 6 and Omega 3’s.

Although both types of Omegas are essential for health, experts agree that our diet ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 fatty acids is greatly unbalanced. While our ancestor’s diets consisted of a diet ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 of about 1:1, our modern dietary habits now reflect a ratio closer to 20:1 to 50:1.

According to Dr. Donald Rudin, author of Omega 3 Oils, fatty acids are the main structural components of every cell membrane in the body, and therefore influence every process in the cell. He concludes that a balanced intake of essential fatty acids is necessary for both healthy cell function and a sense of well-being.

The permeability of the cell depends on the essential fatty acids. This allows nutrients into the cell and toxins to escape. When we rely on other fats to do the job required of Omegas 3 fats the structure of the membrane of each cell becomes stiff and unable to remain healthy enough to do its job.

The primary sources of Omega 6 fats are canola, soy, corn, safflower and sunflower oil. These oils are overabundant in the typical diet, which explains our excess Omega 6 levels. Meanwhile Omega 3 fats are typically found in flaxseed oil, walnuts and fish.

The Omega 3 fatty acids found in cold-water fish, such as tuna, salmon, trout and mackerel consists of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). Omega 3’s in the form of ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) can be found in flaxseed and walnut oils, and seaweed. However, the body must convert ALA to DHA and EPA to derive the heart & brain healthy benefit. This conversion however, is often difficult for some people to make. Therefore getting your Omega 3 fat acids directly from cold water fish or fish oil supplements may be your best bet.

MSG...Obesity, Food Addiction, and Bad Health!

Eating out as well as eating boxed or canned foods is commonplace today. Over the last thirty or forty years fast food restaurants have sprung up on every corner. And almost everyone eats at one of these quickie restaurants at least once or twice a week. But, at what cost to the body and the mind!

There are many ingredients in today’s food that are unnatural, keep food fresh, make foods tasty and also cause disease. One such ingredient is MSG…Monosodium Glutamate.

Whether you consider yourself health-conscious or not, it would benefit you and your family to have information on this additive. Making healthy choices and taking appropriate action can save you or a loved one, a slow poisoning via our food supply.

Tests run on mice and rats that have been injected with MSG show that this ingredient tripled the amount of insulin in the pancreas, causing the rats to become obese. Could ingesting this ingredient act the same on humans? MSG has not only been linked to obesity but also to Diabetes, Migraines, Autism, ADHD, Depression, and Alzheimer’s.

What’s that old milk commercial slogan…it does a body good.
In this case…Not!

Go to your cupboard and check to see just how many of your favorite foods have MSG on the label. If not MSG then look for Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein, which is just another name for Monosodium Glutamate. You’ll be shocked…amazed…perplexed even! How could we have this ingredient in our food supply!!

Is MSG a preservative? NO! We can find no reference that this ingredient has any value, other than to make food appealing and ADDICTING to the consumer. It simply makes you eat more…and more…and more! How clever! We do have an obesity epidemic in this country and generally, we wonder why. Could it at least be partially attributed to this food additive? It’s definitely something to consider!

The amount of MSG in our food has increased over the 50 years since it’s introduction into the food supply. The FDA has set no limits to how much of it can be added to food. Is it harmful to humans? Well…think about it. What foreign substance isn’t! How much can our bodies handle anyway? Not just MSG…but the multitude of other substances, like nitrates, aspartame, hydrogenated fats and the list goes on.

But if you are still unsure, go to pubmed.com and search MSG. That way you can come to your own conclusions.

You know how the system works today…Money Talks! You won’t hear this type of information on TV for obvious reasons. But we must educate ourselves and empower our family and friends.

Spread the word: "It does a body Good!"

The Detrimental Effects of SUGAR!

Studies show that here in the United States we consume somewhere between 140 to 170 lbs. of sugar per person each year. We know that sounds outlandish but according to estimates done by the Department of Agriculture it’s true. It’s not only that extra teaspoon of sugar in our coffee, but the amount of sweets, candy, cake, cookies, juices, soft drinks and all the added sugars in processed foods.

We could list over a hundred health problems from consuming sugar, but we won’t bore you. (Read… Lick the Sugar Habit … by Dr. Nancy Appleton, for this list) We’ll just hit a few of the high points.

The Immune System:

First and foremost, the consumption of refined sugar suppresses our immune system. Just one serving of sugar from a soft drink, candy bar, cake, cookie, ice cream, etc. can suppress our immune system for several hours. This leaves us vulnerable to many unwanted invaders, like viruses, bacteria, and yeast/fungi. The yeast issue alone is a problem because once yeast has the upper hand, sugar becomes its fuel and yeast proliferates.

So, you see, when eating sugar day after day, week after week, year after year. The immune system is...that’s right…IN TROUBLE!

Refined sugar is also lacking the minerals needed for assimilation in our bodies. So eating sugar will cause the body to deplete its own store of minerals in order to process it. This will lead to other deficiencies and may cause chronic illness.

The Danger of Diabetes:

No one wants to develop Diabetes. But, overeating refined sugar and sugar products over and over, can lead to this disease. Type 2 Diabetes is at epidemic levels in our country.

Refined sugar has no nutritional value at all. It will supply us with quick energy, but nothing else. It lacks the proper fiber, minerals and enzymes that create a synergistic effect for normal absorption, assimilation and digestion. Therefore, instead of a normal slow release into the blood stream, it enters very quickly, raising blood sugar levels to an unnatural high. We then, feel a fast energy surge, but only for a short while.

Now, the pancreas is signaled to release insulin very quickly, in order to lower our blood sugar level.

Here’s the problem! The pancreas continues to release large amounts of insulin, causing the blood sugar level to drop below normal. Now, the adrenal gland is signaled to release adrenalin to raise blood sugar back to the normal level.

This process of raising our blood sugar level quickly and then dropping it, over and over again, can wear out our pancreas and adrenal glands…and THEN…Yep, you guessed it…Diabetes! Now we face a life of insulin shots or medication and a possibility of additional chronic illnesses, which are linked to this disease.

Our blood sugar is meant to be regulated and only raise and lower past normal levels on occasion. When we eat a good balance of natural foods the sugar is released into the blood stream slowly and levels are maintained in the normal range. Eliminating refined sugar, eating as close to nature as possible (unprocessed foods) and eating balanced (protein, carbohydrate, fat) may be the answer to avoiding this dreaded disease. There is a percentage of Diabetes that is genetic. But, just because some of our relatives have bad eating habits and life styles which have led to Diabetes, doesn’t mean that we have to travel the same road.

Cancer and Sugar:

In 1931, Dr. Otto Warburg was awarded the Nobel Prize in science for his discovery that cancer cells rapidly proliferate in the presence of fermented sugar…ie Sugar feeds Cancer.

Our immune system (without our knowledge) fights and wins at least 6 battles with cancer in our lifetime. We overcome the cancer and go on as normal. But now we know that sugar suppresses the immune system. We now know that many experts believe sugar feeds cancer.
It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to see that there…IS… a relationship between sugar and cancer. Think this one over real good…it could be Life Saving!

Suggested reading:
Beating Cancer with Nutrition…by Dr. Patrick Quillian
The Germ That Causes Cancer…by Doug Kaufmann
Lick The Sugar Habit…by Dr. Nancy Appleton

Children and Sugar:

Sugar can have serious consequences for children’s health, and can lead to symptoms associated with ADD/ADHD, depression, asthma, infections, and immune suppression, which can lead to diseases more commonly visible in adults, like cancer and diabetes.

As mentioned earlier, when blood glucose levels fall, adrenaline is released. Blood glucose levels that fall below the normal range can result in a hypoglycemic type response that includes sweating, crying, shaking, altered behavior and altered thinking.

Does your child have difficulty concentrating, act out, or cry and whine more often than normal? Is your child hyper one minute only to crash and become lethargic later? Does he or she get recurrent ear infections and runny noses? Are you making more stops to the doctor’s office only to walk away with another prescription for an antibiotic? If you answered YES! Then your child may be eating too much sugar!!

Finally:

Eating an excessive amount of refined sugar and simple carbohydrates can lead to many health problems. It can cause immune suppression, nutrient deficiencies, and can lead to depression, visual deterioration, migraines, food allergies, bowel problems, oxidative damage due to free radicals, obesity and the list goes on.

Please, friends take this sugar issue very seriously. When the body is in a balanced state (homeostasis) it is healing. Research has proven that refined sugar can throw our health out of balance and put us on a path toward degenerative disease. We believe (and some experts agree) that sugar can be as addictive as drugs.

Yes, we are all going to eat refined sugar products on occasion. But we owe it to our family and friends to educate ourselves about the effects it can have on our health. Only then can we make an informed decision!

PAIN! Our Bodies Cry for HELP!

On occasion, we’ve all tried NSAIDS (over the counter pain medications) like Tylenol and Motrin. But recent information shows that these drugs can cause damage to the stomach, and increase the risk of renal failure. Prescription drugs like Vioxx and Celebrex come with their own serious health risks as evidenced by the nightly news.

Pain is certainly not the cause of our problems but a symptom that the body is not functioning properly. While we do not consider ourselves experts, we would like to pass on what we have learned from health experts (like Doug Kaufmann, Dr. Jacob Tietelbaum, Dr. Joseph Mercola and others) about the causes and possible remedies for this debilitating symptom.

Infection in the body can and does affect pain. Due to the overuse of antibiotics both via doctor’s prescription and those given to livestock, our bodies can become depleted of good bacteria. This increases the risk of yeast overgrowth. Yeast in the body, coupled with the excessive consumption of sugar (estimated at 150 or more lbs per year) can and does cause inflammation in the body, and subsequently leads to pain.

Eliminating sugar and adding probiotics, while adopting an anti candida diet, and treating for yeast overgrowth with natural anti fungals (exp. garlic, capryllic acid, apple cider vinegar, and olive leaf extract) will assist you in getting yeast under control. For those with a more chronic yeast condition, prescription anti fungals like Nystatin plus Diflucan (which are gut and blood anti fungals respectively) may be considered.

Nutritional support is also very beneficial. Taking a whole food source vitamin/mineral formula that gives the body adequate magnesium, amino acids (proteins), antioxidants, zinc, selenium and B vitamins along with other nutrients, is critical for healing. Additionally, for those with arthritis, Glucosamine & Condrotin Sulfate and MSM may be an option. For nerve pain you might consider lipoic acid.

Getting to bed by 10 pm and sleeping a full 8 to 9 hours is optimal for health and healing. Why? Because our bodies heal while sleeping and have very precise duties during specific hours of the night. These responsibilities include such things as, recharging of the adrenals and endocrine glands, repair of tissue and detoxification. Sleep is of the utmost importance, as more serious illness can occur if the body is not given the chance to regulate, rest and heal.

If sleep is difficult, you might consider taking a herbal sleep formula with a combination of ingredients like Valerian Root, Skullcap, Hops and Passionflower, etc., or trying a magnesium/calcium supplement, melatonin, 5htp/or L tryptophan.

Hormonal deficiencies should also be investigated, as a healthy hypothalamic function is often not present in chronic pain.

We’ll end with some additional natural remedies that we have learned are beneficial in reducing pain. You may want to investigate a number of these natural remedies in limiting the pain response.

• Omega 3 fatty acids: Assists the body in an anti-inflammatory response.
  
• Noni Juice: Anti-inflammatory, immune enhancing, natural cox 2 inhibitor.
  
• Niacinamide B3: Helps maintain and enhance healthy cartilage, joint flexibility and connective tissue.
  
• Bromelain: Provides an inflammatory response. This enzyme improves digestion and absorption of sulfates.
  
• Boswellia: Also known as Frankincense, this herb has important anti-inflammatory properties. Beneficial to both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis.
  
• Tart Cherries: Help’s relieve and prevent arthritis and gout.
  
• Feverfew: Anti-inflammatory, pain relieving, helps maintain flexibility.
  
• Willow bark: Original source of aspirin, effective in reducing pain, considered as effective as Vioxx for osteoarthritis.

We understand that there are no easy solutions in getting to the source of pain and relieving it. We are not doctors and do not want to appear that we have the solutions to this complicated issue. However, we did want to share with you, some of the things we have learned about pain, in hopes that some of these ideas, and suggestions may get you thinking in an alternative direction.

Taking a painkiller is certainly not going to resolved your pain issues. And the more toxic chemicals that we put into our bodies only exacerbate our health issues. Of course you should see your doctor. We just hope however, that something you’ve read here may give you additional information, that may assist you in getting to the cause of your pain. Investigating all of your options will certainly put you on the right road and assist you in you quest to become pain free.

Good luck again…on your quest for True Healthy Living Now!

Coconut Oil ... The Truly Good Fat!

What is the healthiest fat to eat? That would be virgin Coconut oil! It is rich in lauric acid, a proven antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal agent. This beneficial oil builds the body’s immune system, while attacking bacteria, viruses, and pathogens. It contains no trans fats (unlike vegetable oils, margarines and other shortenings). Even the beloved Olive oil has some trans fat.

Note: Trans-fats should be avoided at all costs, because they lead to heart disease, clogged arteries, and diabetes.

Coconut oil is a saturated fat! But hold on, IT’S HEART HEALTHY! The hype you’ve heard about saturated fat’s connection to modern illness and heart disease is not true!!! Saturated fats make up about 50% of cell membranes, therefore playing a vital role within the body. Look to the excessive use of polyunsaturated fats (vegetable oils derived from soy, corn, safflower or canola) and trans fats when evaluating the increase in modern illness. More on bad fats and saturated vs. polyunsaturated fats in future articles.

Coconut oil is a saturated fat that is of the medium-chain fatty acid variety. Thus making it actually GOOD for YOU. Medium chained fatty acids are absorbed directly for quick energy, and contribute to the health of the immune system. They are not stored in the bodies cells, therefore, are not stored as fat. Coconut oil actually speeds up the body’s metabolism, making it an excellent partner in weight loss.

Studies have shown that Coconut oil is beneficial to HIV/AIDS patients, by lowering the viral load. Thyroid sufferers have also been shown to benefit due to the increase in metabolism and promotion of healthy thyroid function.

BUT WAIT… Even your skin can benefit from Coconut Oil. Use it like you would any lotion. This healthy oil prevents destructive free-radical damage, and aids in the repair of the skin. Coconut oil helps remove the outer layer of dead skin cells, making the skin smoother. It keeps connective tissues strong and supple, limiting the damage caused by the sun. You can use it to protect your skin from drying, chapping, and the prevention of wrinkles. WE DO! It’s one the healthiest things you can put on your skin.

Coconut oil is the ideal cooking oil too, because unlike other oils, it will not oxidize when heated. It’s been called a "functional food," because it’s one of the healthiest oils in the world.

Who wouldn’t want to cook with oil known to reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, and other degenerative diseases? A proven immune enhancer, that promotes weight loss, provides an immediate source of energy, assists in nutrient absorption, and fights bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens.

Coconut oil has a mild delicate flavor, that is satisfying to the taste buds. You can eat it by the spoonful, and when you do you will be getting the benefits internally as well as externally. But remember, for added benefits; use it as a moisturizer also.

We hope you’ll take a look at Coconut Oil and discover for yourself how truly beneficial it is!

The Benefits of Sunlight!

Despite what we have been led to believe about sunlight, the right amount of responsible sun bathing can make you happier and healthier. Considering the sun as a friend by using it responsibly can be very beneficial as long as we avoid the damaging effects of chronic exposure.

Make sure you understand the risks of skin cancer verses your sunlight needs. Of course we should not get burned or look directly into the sun, but a small amount of daily sunshine on our skin and in our eyes (indirectly) is essential for good health.

New research suggests that sunshine may reduce the risk of many forms of cancer such as prostrate, breast, colon and ovarian cancer. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is our main source of Vitamin D. The major biological function of vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. And as we know calcium is essential for good bone health.

Researchers have found that Vitamin D from sunlight also plays a role in increasing the amount of oxygen your blood can transport around the body, which in turn, will boost your energy levels, sharpen your mental faculties and give you an improved feeling of well-being.

Chronic skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis have also been shown to improve during safe sunbathing.

The fear of skin cancer is one of the main reasons given for staying out of the sun. During our research we have found that the imbalance of Omega 6 to Omega 3 fatty acids as well as the lack of essential nutrients such as anti oxidants from a balanced diet, may also play a role in the development of skin cancer.

The research is beginning to bear out the need for safe sun exposure. By limiting sun exposure, changing our diet ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 to a diet similar to that of our ancestors, (one more closely reflecting a diet ratio of 1:1 or 2:1 Omega 6 to Omega 3 fatty acids) and making other dietary improvements we may start to see a decrease in the incidence of skin cancer.

The best source of Vitamin D is of course UV-B from sunlight or from natural food sources like Cod Liver Oil. Those who can not for whatever reason obtain a healthy amount of sun exposure can satisfy the bodies vitamin D requirements by taking a daily dose equivalent to 1000 IU’s of vitamin D from Cod Liver Oil. Remember, Vitamin D in milk and in most vitamins is synthetic and is not nearly as good as getting this important nutrient from the sun.

Sunlight ... beneficial to True Healthy Living Now!

Stevia, The Perfect Sweetener, Whoops supplement

We are all aware that sugar is not our friend. Sugar increases insulin levels and may lead to a myriad of diseases such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, inflammation, premature aging and so on.

Artificial sweeteners such as Aspartame (NutraSweet, Equal) and Splenda come with their own set of debilitating and damaging effects. These chemical substitutes are not the answer for good health or for caloric restriction. Aspartame for example has been linked to brain cancer, emotional disorders, seizures, and birth defects. More than 75% of all non-drug complaints to the FDA are about Aspartame. These side effects are but a small sampling of the 100’s of adverse reactions caused by Aspartame.

Animal research has linked Splenda (succulous) with enlarged liver and kidneys, shrunken thymus glands, reduced growth rate and aborted pregnancies. Available only since 1999, the reports of adverse effects on humans is beginning to evolve, but understand that people having adverse reactions may not make the connection.

Reducing or quitting sugar altogether is beneficial to good health. Yet, we all know how very hard this is to do. In our house, we have consciously reduced sugar to almost nothing. We do however, need a bit of sweetener on occasion, for example to sweeten lemon aid, ice tea, coffee, whole grain cereal, oatmeal etc. We therefore recommend choosing Stevia over sugar or artificial sweeteners.

What is Stevia?

Stevia is a non caloric sweetener, an herb, native to Paraguay. It has been used as a sweetener for centuries in Paraguay and decades in Japan without a single complaint regarding harmful effects. This small green plant bears leaves which have a delicious and refreshing taste that is 10-15 times sweeter than table sugar. Stevia extracts called steviosides, claim as much as 200-300 times the sweetness of table sugar.

Stevia is a natural dietary supplement which studies have shown offers a bounty of health benefits. Here are just some of the nutrients found in the Stevia leaf.

• Vitamin A & C
  
• Phosphorus
  
• Potassium
  
• Riboflavin
  
• Fiber
  
• Protein
  
• Magnesium
  
• Iron
  
• Zinc
  
• Calcium
  

Because the human body does not metabolize the sweet compound in Stevia, called glycoside, (causing the body to pass it through normal channels without raising blood sugar) it is an excellent sugar substitute for those wishing to lose weight.

Research carried out in Japan and South America, clearly demonstrates the beneficial effects of Stevia in regulating blood sugar levels and supporting the pancreas, reducing the symptoms of diabetes and hypoglycemia. Other traditional uses of Stevia are to lower elevated blood pressure (hypertension), as a digestive aid, to reduces gas and stomach acidity, and inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria that cause gum disease and tooth decay.

Stevia is widely used all over the world, from Japan (claiming 41% of the sweetener market, including sugar), China, Germany, Israel, South Korea and so on. And we repeat, with no reports of toxicity. In the US, the FDA banned this natural non-caloric alternative to sugar and artificial sweeteners in 1991. But, since the passage of the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), Stevia can be sold legally in the United States, but only as a "dietary supplement." Why?…Well, money talks and pockets and influence run deep.

Many companies today are using Stevia as a sweetener (whoops! dietary supplement) in nutrition bars, meal replacement drinks, protein powders, etc. And generally, you don’t have to go to the health food store to find Stevia. Most grocery stores are now stocking it. If yours does not, just ask. I’m sure they won’t mind stocking it. Ours didn’t.

If you give Stevia a try, be patient, it may not suit you the first few times you try it but believe me, soon you’ll wonder why you ever used anything else. Stevia is actually good for your health! It’s a no brainer! Do yourself and your family a big favor and try Stevia like our family has. It just may be a health changing experience.

Magnesium...Essential for Life!

Magnesium is an essential mineral (essential for life) that every cell in the body needs. It keeps the nervous system healthy, muscles strong, and forms healthy bones and teeth. It lovers blood pressure and helps protect against cardiovascular disease. However, during our research we learned that up to 80% of Americans are magnesium deficient. Did you hear that! Lets say it again!! Eighty percent of American’s are deficient in Magnesium…That’s just one mineral in the diet, but a very important one!

So why is magnesium so helpful to the body? It’s possible that it could be that magnesium helps the body's cells fend off stress. But magnesium also activates enzymes, and contributes to energy production. If that wasn’t enough, it also helps regulate calcium levels as well as zinc, copper, potassium, vitamin D, and other significant nutrients.

There are those who believe that it is the lack of magnesium that underlies the epidemic of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and osteoporosis that we see in this country. When a deficiency of magnesium occurs, your heart will beat irregularly, arteries will constrict, and blood pressure will rise. Or you may have muscles spasms, loose bone strength, experience more pain, or have blood sugar fluctuations.

Here is just a sampling of the many conditions helped by taking magnesium.

Anxiety, Aggressive Behavior, Asthma, Constipation, Depression, Diabetes, Dizziness, Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, Heart Disease, High Blood Pressure, Hypertension, Hypoglycemia, Insomnia, Jumpiness, Kidney Disease, Migraines, Muscle Cramps, Nerve problems, Osteoporosis, Panic Attacks, Poor Memory, Stiff and Aching Bone and Joints, and Tooth Decay.

Foods most likely to contain magnesium are green leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds. However, how much magnesium is unknown. Fertilizers used on factory farms depend mostly on phosphorous, nitrogen and potassium. Then again, if the soil is not replenished with magnesium and other minerals and micronutrients the plants may look good but may not be nutrient dense.

So what do you do?

Well, of course you should continue to eat those foods high in magnesium…and buy organic if you can. Why? It’s because organic farmers are more likely to use magnesium rich fertilizers. You might consider increasing your magnesium intake by utilizing green drinks and taking magnesium supplements.

But there is a caution! The recommended ratio of calcium to magnesium is key.

Our current dietary ratio of calcium to magnesium is 3.5 to 1
thru 6 to 1. The recommended dietary ratio is 2 to 1. And during our evolutionary or Paleolithic period it was 1 to 1. So you can see that we are headed in the wrong direction, and are generally magnesium deficient, making us prone to illness.

In order to offset this deficiency and avoid the above listed conditions and others caused by the lack of magnesium, you many want to consider increasing your magnesium intake, by taking one part magnesium to one part calcium in supplemental form for a period of a few months to a year.

Eating foods that are generally considered high in magnesium is also important, as eating well is key to health. To assist you in this regard…we’ve listed a sampling of these foods.

Avacodo, Beans, Bananas, Black-eyed peas, Brown Rice, Leafy green vegetables, Legumes, Nuts (exp. Almonds, Walnuts, Hazelnuts), Okra, Pumpkin seeds, Sunflower kernels, Wheat Bran.

Again…if you are eating these foods yet continue to have any symptoms relating to the above conditions…you might want to consider supplementing with green food sources and magnesium supplements.

Some highly absorbable and well tolerated sources of magnesium are: chloride, citrate, gluconate, glycinate, lactate, malate, succinate, sulfate, tartrate and taurate. All are very good, ionizable sources of magnesium. Other forms of magnesium such as: oxide, hydroxide, carbonate, stearate, glutamate and aspartate are more likely to be considered useless or dangerous for human consumption.

Taking addition magnesium may be beneficial to your health, especially when considering how essential this mineral is to the health of your central nervous system, muscles and bones.

Always check with your doctor before taking supplements!

Magnesium, essential to life…and a key to…True Healthy Living Now!