In Remission...Now What?

So you have been through chemo and radiation with success...and are in remission...congratulations!!!

Now what? There will always be the fear of "will it come back"...we cannot shut that switch off in our brain. Yes, we can have a positive attitude... but there will be days. My husband had a morning like this today. Since "our blog" is for his journey, I am going to "talk" to those who have been there, speaking on behalf of your friends and family members asking my opinion of what you can do to ensure your body remains healed. Keep in mind, this is my personal opinion...I am not a doctor or giving medical advice, and by putting my recommendations into action is no guarantee. No one has a guarantee on life..mine can come to end tomorrow just as much as the next person.

I am a book-learned, research driven person...and my recommendations are based on holistic wellness approaches as to what I WOULD DO FOR MYSELF.

For anyone...whether you are in remission, or going through treatment, there is a pretty inexpensive test you can have done that measures the cancer cells in your bloodstream - it is called an HCG test.  Read more about it here, at the Navaroo Medical Clinic. Basically, taken every two months if in a current treatment plan, it will tell you whether or not your treatment is working. For those in remission, I would probably take the test twice a year or as often as you feel comfortable. As long as your number remains constant or goes down...you are on the right path. I am willing to bet your doctor, probably even your oncologist, is not aware of this test.

If this test were done during treatment...it would provide an early on indicator if the chosen path of treatment is successfully working. If not, find a new treatment plan of action.

We just sent away for this test for my husband, and I sent a sample in for myself as well. For $55 I can have peace of mind knowing I have cancer at bay. OR I may get a red alert and will get even more serious about a more healthy eating plan... I know I have sugar too often in one week - I am fueling my cancer cells each time I have a sweet treat.We all have cancer cells once we get past 30 - actually, with today's toxic world I don't doubt my kids have cancer cells as well. However, it is one's ability to switch cancer cells on or off that matter - and fortunately, for many our body is functioning and the off switch is working.

This is what I would do for myself if I were in remission:
- Monitor with the HCG test to measure cancer cell levels
- use pH strips to monitor my acidity to alkaline levels weekly
- eat an 80/20 diet (vegetarian/animal based foods - another way to look at this: alkaline/acidic foods)
- utilize a pure, full spectrum super green food - this will fuel cells with oxygen (more on this Sept 1)
- shop organic as much as possible
- avoid any and all artificial ingredients as well as high glycemic
- use CLEAN and PURE skin care, shampoo, etc
-  avoid chemical cleaners/pesticides in the home, and artificial fragrances (i.e. no artificial candles/plug ins)
- use a full body/organ detox protocol quarterly (look for broken cell chlorella)
- ensure the estradiol to progesterone ratio is in balance if my cancer involved any reproductive organ or breast (ZRT Labs offers test kits)
- monitor vitamin levels, D and magnesium deficiency is prevalent in cancer patients
- support the immune system - diet is key, supplementation often necessary
- utilize infra-red heat or sauna if possible - sweat - turn up the heat, not with strenuous activity, which can weaken the immune, but with heat sourcing products

Truths about cancer:
1. cancer cannot survive in an alkaline environment
2. an oxygen deprived cell fuels cancer
3. sugar fuels cancer - if your doctor says you can eat anything you want - DON'T LISTEN!!
4. cancer cells are compromised at temps over 109.4 degrees F

This is what I would do if I were in remission. I would do pretty much the same if I were in a battle with cancer - but would step up the anti-oxidant, oxygen rich food sources.

May healthy be your new happy,
Rita S.

Benefits of Broken Cell Chlorella for Cancer

Chlorella pyrenoidoisa, the Latin name for broken cell chlorella, is one of the most powerful detoxifying plants on the planet. On a mission to find ways to detoxify a loved one from possible radiation poisoning, a number of on line articles including the link above to Natural News, bespoke of the benefits of this aquatic powerhouse.

I was thrilled to reaffirm that it is a key ingredient in the Arbonne 7 Day Body Cleanse. Added to 32 ounces of water, this is a product that both my husband and I make a point to drink three times a year for a GENTLE quarterly cleanse (no fasting required!).

When you think about radiation poisoning, what comes to mind? It may be the repercussions on the people of Japan for the Fukishima disaster. Right? As a child, the word radiation always conjured up images from history class of the "atom bomb" being dropped forming a mushroom cloud.

Yet, we are exposed to radiation daily...in small amounts if we use electronics and wireless communication devices. My family uses products from SafeSpace for EMF protection on small electronics. For whole house protection, we use Aulterra EMF Neutralizing protection.  EVERY ONE who has cancer should protect themselves from EMF..

We are exposed to radiation in greater amounts from the medical field...with dental x-rays. You can located dental practices that have concern for their patients and effects of radiation. Holistic-minded dental offices, such as No Fear Dentistry in Madison, WI,  are cropping up offering digitial imagiing, which reduces radiation by 90%.

If we receive diagnostic testing, such as a CT or PET scan...the radiation dosage is much more intense...and more so if needing to penetrate a deeper area such as chest cavity. In addition, radioactive uranium is used in the process

Many go through these scans without a hitch. Although what manifests years down the line from such exposure is not completely known. It is a concern for the pioneers blazing a trail with homeopathic cancer treatments. Much is being written on the topic, and it should be concerning to all of us.

In June 9, 2014 my husband was exposed to radiation during a CT scan in the ER one evening. He went in for several days of an annoying feeling in the chest, not of pain, but since we were leaving on vacation it was smart to get it checked out.  The good news is - the many tests and diagnostics performed over the next 8 hrs. revealed a very well functioning heart, and likelihood of a pulled muscle causing the discomfort. Swollen lymph nodes did cause concern for further diagnostics.

Upon arriving home we discovered both legs had an abundance of sores, which over a period of several days spread to arms, fingers.  Although uncomfortable, we kept itching at bay using Arbonne FC5 skin conditioning oil and Seasource Detox Body Gelee (which contains Chlorella Vulgaris, another form of beneficial sea based chlorella).  It is still unclear what the sores came from...he did not have him before his ER visit, but certainly did upon arriving home.  It could have been a reaction to the barium sulfate solution given in the IV prior to the scan, or it may have been a quick reaction to radiation and/or subsequent radiation burn?  We will not know the answer to this for certain, but for a subsequent PET scan we took precautions. His doctor suggested a "contact" outbreak.  The image to the left shows the sores in a much lesser state than original, after days of treating with Arbonne products.

CT scans, by the way, produce greater radiation than a PET scan. Those who have "at risk" kidneys may benefit from taking a protective supplement N-acetylcysteine prior to the CT scan.

To help combat the subsequent days of feeling lethargic and "different" after the CT scan, my husband drank the Arbonne Anti Oxidant and Immunity Booster 1-2x a day to help boost his immunity.

We abhorred the idea of my husband being subjected to a radioactive solution for a PET scan...yet we succumbed to pressure, both from the medical world and family and friends. Doesn't it seem wrong that we are asked to take and accept poisoning of the body in order to be diagnosed? Jesse did not feel that God would want him to do this, yet submitted to this world.

For the PET scan we prepared ahead.  We did not want the outbreak of sores again, and he continued a detoxifying diet prior to the scan in order to ensure the liver had plenty of room after the PET to dump toxins for elimination. Upon coming out of the "tube" Jesse began drinking the broken cell chlorella based Arbonne cleanse immediately.

As a holistic lifestyle family, when something is amiss with our bodies, we go full force with detoxification, eating clean, increasing the Arbonne Vitamin D/B12 spray and Arbonne Anti-Oxidant Immunity Boosters. There is no skipping the PowerPack multi-vitamins containing the benefits of selenium, or the vegan Omega 3s with DHA. Arbonne Detox Tea is enjoyed twice daily for continual liver support with milk thistle and dandelion root.  In addition to Arbonne supplements, NOW brand Curcumin is a part of the regimen.

Arbonne's 7 Day Detox Body Cleanse contains Chlorella pyrenoidoisa that is pure. Special attention is made to ensure the chlorella used is not comprimised by ocean contamination. This is important, especially with disasters such as Fukishima crating radioactive sea life - both animal and plant.

Other important nutritionals to help combat the effects of radiation include pectin fibers, sea plants such as sea algae, kelp and chlorella, and rich super green foods containing chlorophyll - such as wheat grass, spirulina, barley grass, parsley, dark greens such as kale.  I will share a little more on this in my next post.

I wish for you VITALITY. May you feel great, look great and live great!
Rita S.

Colon Cancer Prevention: Part 2

The other day I started a post about colon cancer, and included what studies have found to be causes of the “silent killer”. It is the second most deadly cancer, and my goal today is to help give you ideas on how you might prevent colon cancer through some lifestyle changes. We never appreciate our health until it is gone, so take the information below to heart, and put some thought and reflection into your current lifestyle – are you living to live well?

I utilized a number of sources in pulling together these suggestions – some of it may be old news, some may be new. Here’s to regularity:
1. Fiber Intake  It’s no secret that the American diet lacks fiber. How many of us consume 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day, as recommended? One serving equals one cup of fresh fruit, or a tennis ball sized piece of fresh fruit, or ¼ c. of dried fruit. Dr. Russel Blaylock, a neurosurgen who reports on the latest in holistic cancer research and health news, recommends blenderizing your vegetables. I have found that I can toss frozen cauliflower, broccoli or fresh kale and spinach into my non-soy, vegan vanilla protein shake, with strawberries, and not even taste the “greenies”. 

It is recommended to consume 25-35 grams of fiber per day. One source states women can consume on the low end, and men should be on the high end of that figure. I add 12 grams of soluable Fiber Boost to my protein shake each morning, and actually, since I started putting this article together a few weeks ago I am adding in a bit more. Blaylock does state that all fiber supplements are not necessarily beneficial, and one should look for “resistant starches”. He recommends fiber sources from apple, citrus and lentil peas. Apparently, the pectin from these sources and other fruits, when fermented in the colon produce butyrate, which is vital to the health of the cells lining the colon.

2. Probiotics/Prebiotics/Enzymes A number of studies indicate the importance of healthy gut flora in reducing the risk of colon cancer. Unfortunately, when we take anti-biotics we are killing off our good gut flora as well as the bad. Since our body does not replace probiotics we need to supplement to do so, and find a source that includes a robust strain with prebiotics so it can actually pass through the stomach wall and get into the intestines to do its job. In addition to probiotics and prebiotics, digestive enzymes diminish as we age, and it is important to replace them. A lack of enzymes results in esophageal reflux, and an excess of undigested food in the colon, which increases colon cancer risk.

 3. Omega 3s – studies have shown that a high intake of Omega 3 fats substantially lowers colon cancer risk. The type of fats we consume have a great impact on our chances of developing cancer. Blaylock’s report states that studies have shown that omega-6 fats (corn, soybean, safflower, sunflower, peanut, grapeseed?, and canola oils) dramatically increase the risk of colon cancer, and turn existing cancer cells into very aggressive, metastasizing cancers. Blaylock goes on to state that this is evident in all cancers. Americans consume 50% more Omega 6 than are needed for good health. (Considering that almost all processed foods contain Omega 6 this should not come as a surprise, should it?) I have done some research on the vegan (non-animal) Omega 3 oils in the supplement that my family uses: which contains flax seed oil, and DHA from labortory grown sea algae to insure purity and non-ocean pollutants and contamnation/...the more I learned about benefits the more impressed I became. Our omega 3 is more powerful than 4 salmon steaks, as it has a very high ORAC value. What I do know for certain is our Omega 3s helped my husband get off his statin drugs and our joints feel better as well. Omega 3s are necessary for heart, brain, joint health, as well as cancer prevention. It is the single most important supplement you can take in addition to a QUALITY multi-vitamins. (one a day types don't cut it folks!)

4. MODERATE Exercise – walking weight resistance training, raking the leaves and mowing the lawn are all good forms of exercise. And right now, shovelling snow in Wisconsin!  Highly aerobic exercise, per doctors Lee and Blaylock, increase the free radicals and peroxidation in your body, and neither doctor recommends it, especially for cancer patients and survivors. Aerobic activity increases prolonged increases in metabolism – a process which is a major source of these harmful chemicals. Lee had discussed this in further detail in his book about breast cancer, stating that cancer survivors who compete in triathalons and climb mountains are doing themselves more harm than good. 

5. Diet – Avoid processed foods. Learn to read labels – which scream “Good Source of Fiber” only to be laden with refined carbohyrdrates and fats, which are highly inflammatory.  High fructose corn syrup and MSG abounds in processed foods...contributors to cancer and brain and heart related diseases.
Avoid most vegetable oils – known as omega 6 (N-6). These include corn, safflower, soybean, sunflower, peanut and canola. While Omega 6 are needed for health, most people consume 50x more than as needed (common ingredient in processed foods). Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Coconut Oil should be the oils of choice in the “cancer prevention focused kitchen”. If you cook with EVOO sprinkle turmeric and other spices in the oil, and it prevents oxidation. (I like that last tip!)

Avoid these fish – no matter what due to heavy contamination: shark, swordfish, tilefish, and large tuna.

Red meat in moderation – The biggest issue with red meat is the high iron content, which Blaylock labels “a cancer fertilizer”. Iron dramatically increases free radical generation which fuels cancer growth. Note that it is important to avoid supplements with IRON, as we Americans usually don’t have trouble getting enough iron in our diet, but we often have too much. Dr. Graham Colditz of the Washington University School of Medicine, as well as other experts, state to limit red meat to no more than 3, 3 oz. servings per week. So if you go out to dinner on Saturday night and have a 10 oz. sirloin - you have had your week’s consumption of red meat!

6. Metal toxicity – fluoride, aluminum and mercury are three metals that promote cancer, and Dr. Blaylock states they are very toxic to cells, especially brain cells. Black tea, soy milk, processed meats and processed cheese are high sources of aluminum and fluoride in foods. Mercury comes from fish, dental amalgam fillings, and vaccines. I think we’d be surprised to learn of all things we absorb trace metals from, and it is impossible to avoid it 100%. Keep in mind that although the FDA stamps its approval on many things, and manufacturers will state that amounts are too small to be harmful, trace metals in particular are fat soluable. Basically, these toxins build up as they store inside our bodies. 

For this reason, I really do believe it is beneficial to detoxify at least once every 3 mo. My husband and I both use Essentials 7 Day body detox which cleanses and removes trace metals from essential organs, and is gentle as well. Because it contains chlorella, it can also remove mercury toxins, which few body cleanses can do (i.e. your homemade lemon juice and cayenne cannot remove the trace heavy metals).  If I had cancer, I would be detoxing every month, especially because of the effects of traditional cancer treatment.

For a healthful life it would seem all of the recommendations above would be beneficial life practices to incorporate for a lifestyle of wellness. I always recommend taking the road to renewed health, one step at a time.

To your health!
Rita S.

Are Your Genes Controlling Your Health

Nutrigenomics can overcome your genetic predisposition. Diseased cellls are FUELED by the choices you make, and unfortunately, sometimes those choices are made for us. (As an example, a lawn or city park that is sprayed by chemicals that drift into your "intake zone".  

Genetic tendencies, a family tree laden with cancer, does not mean you are assured of getting the disease - unless you continually think about it and as in many areas of our life, including our health "what you think about, you bring about". Fact is, a very small percentage of cancers are actually from genetic make-up - less than 5%. The majority of cancer is caused by environmental exposures.  This is a topic I have written about in great lengths - if any of you have beared with me on those particular posts.

For those concerned about genetic make up and disease - there is GREAT NEWS!  The field of Nutrigenomics has made great strides in recent years.  Holsitc wellness is CURING cancer whereas traditional treatment continues to poison the human body so that it often manifests as another disease, or different cancer, years later - per the holistic and alternative medicine books and newsletters that  I read.  A book I highly recommend is "Cancer is Not a Disease, It's A Survival Mechanism"..

Our genetic mapping begins in the womb, obviously, and it comes in part from the hormones of both parents...a lack thereof of one hormone or another will affect offspring. Some babies already have predispositions to certain traits, such as brain triggers, type 1 diabetes, from birth and early on in their lives.  This is one reason why, as an adult, having hormones tested is a good place to start if you have a concern of family health history.   DNA chains become genes and many many thousands of genes become cells.  

CELLS DIE. CELLS POPULATE.   100 billion red cells, 400 million white cells are produced every hour.

Back to cell death...apoptosis.  This is healthy...we WANT cells to die.  The trouble starts when cells do not die after they do their job.  This happens 94% of the time, because of environmental factors.  Genetics, as I mentioned, accounts for a scant percentage of cancer. In addition to the chemicals in our foods and hygiene products, X-rays, radiation and medication also play a role in contributing to cancer.  It stands to reason that if new cells are generating and "old" cells are dying and excreting from the body - that we can become a new being over and over again, and healthier every day if we cease exposure to environmental toxins and foods.

This article is three years old, and from all that I have read the science of nutrigenomics has advanced. There are nutrients that can flip the switch on a gene "just like that". 

Hormones also play a role - with estrogen producing the Bcl-2 cancer-causing gene, whearas progesterone produces p-53, the cancer-protective gene (1990 Formby and Wiley research published Annals of Clinical Laboratory Science)

Progesterone, a natural hormone made by both men and women, is the only hormone that can counter excess estrogen. Most people are out of balance, with the body containing more estrogen than progesterone.  Women are usually imbalanced by age 35. For one, we tend to use more hygiene products than  men, most of which have endocrine disruptors. 

Men's progesterone levels decrease by age 50 - allowing estrogen to get out of hand. Testosterone alone does not cause prostrate cancer...a common sense statement by Dr. Michael Platt in his book "The Miracle of BioIdentical Hormones", states that if prostrate cancer were caused by too much testosterone we would have an epidemic amongst 17 yr old boys. The first time I read that it was an AHA moment - makes a lot of sense, don't you agree?  I do believe that traditional medicine is finally catching one a little bit, as they give drugs that prohibit estrogen.  It's too bad, in my opinion, that more oncologists and men don't know that bio identical progesterone can do JUST THAT - keep the estrogen levels in check.    One study referenced in a book shows that enlarged prostrate reduces and prostrate cancer cells die when progesterone is added and brought back into balance.

Many auto immune diseases are also caused in large part by hormone imbalance and dietary choices.  A family history of disease does NOT DICTATE a future of the same.  Educate yourself on the particular "disease", or as author Moritz describes, a SYMPTOM you may be prone too.  THEN change your DNA by nutrigenomics.  Find a knowledgeable naturopath, and if one is not available to you - the books certainly are.  Many are found in your local library for FREE.

Take an ATTITUDE CHECK.  If it is "woe is me....I come from a line of XYZ disease so I know I will get it" - YOU WILL.  I encourage you to be an OVERCOMER!!   Take control of your CELLS - yes, you can! Fuel them with anti-oxidants that can overcome the free radicals that mutate cells.  Avod the endocrine disruptors.  Make healthy choices 80% of the time. Use pH strips to monitor your body's acidic vs. alkaline status, and if is on the acidic side - consume more anti oxidants n the form of vegetables to tip the scale towards alkaline.  Disease cannot survive an alkaline state. Which is another topic I will not get into...thanks for reading, I hope that this post gives you HOPE if you feel you have been dealt a deck of diseased. genes. It's how you play those cards that will determine if you WIN and enjoy health!

To your health, 
Rita S.

Eat! Don't Starve Yourself to Weight Loss

2013 is not that far off and I know many are already contemplating their new year's resolutions.  I am forming a team for a 30 Day Healthy Living Challenge and a number of people are already "IN". I am excited for them, and for myself. The last time I did the challenge, with my husband, we both lost 16 lbs. in 30 days.  The best thing about that for me is that I had already lost 62 lbs. - so it was not simply a shedding of water weight!
My hope here is to start blogging a bit more regularly to coach those on my team, and others, taking up the AB 30 Day Healthy Living Challenge.  I plan to offer some tidbits of information, recipes, and things that have worked for me.  I have been where many of you may currently find yourself. I was 100 lbs. overweight, but I made up my mind that I would not continue on my unhealthy journey less I put our kids through the burden of providing nursing home care for me - which can put many families in financial straits. I see that often in my day job.
For those that have been following my blog, you already know that my journey to health shed 85 lbs off - my journey started fall of 2010 and I have maintained since April 2011.  However, I could stand to lose another 15 and go down one more size - that is my goal with the 30 Day Challenge and I plan to kick it up a notch this time around by incorporating a probiotic/prebiotic into my vegan and alkaline based protein shake each morning.  See yesterday's post for more on that, but I read that healthy gut flora is critical for successful weight loss.
Oh - and I will probably kick it up by doing some sort of exercise.  Yes... you heard right. My friends know I don't like to sweat. Reason is...if I were to work out in the eve I would have to actually refrain from going out and meeting people afterwards.  I am up too late to work out in the morning. I think an earlier bed time will be  part of my challenge to fit in exercise.
Planning ahead is key to any successful weight loss journey. Think about it...you get a craving, or your stomach gives the hungry symbol...or maybe your are simply bored and want to eat ...your kitchen will either be your friend or foe.
If you are planning to gain more energy or lose weight in the new year, which is not that far off - start assessing your kitchen food  sources NOW.  What's in the pantry - processed foods with additives? Did you know that many additives, such as the myriad of glutamates, artificial sweeteners and such - actually trigger your brain to crave more food?  Diet soda is actually formulated to make you hungry. The  more hungry you are, the more you eat. The more you eat, the more weight you gain. The more weight you gain, presumably all the more diet soda you will buy!!  Contrary to what you think... food manufacturers are not all about YOU, they are all about their bottom line.
I love the insight from one of my holistic sources:

"A healthy diet does not mean a starvation diet. Hunger is a natural signal from your body telling you to eat. Don’t ignore it, eat when you are hungry. However, the key is to differentiate hunger from “habit eating” and to be selective about the foods, and quantity, you choose. Eating regular, nutritious meals that leave you full and satisfied will help you stick to your plan and reach your weight loss goals. Skipping meals will slow down your metabolism and cause you to overcompensate with a larger meal later on. When it’s time for a snack, avoid processed foods. Raw fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, are filling and nutritious. Permanent weight loss happens when you have a healthy eating plan and stay in control of what you put in your mouth."

Source

 The 30 Day Healthy Living Challenge is all about EATING food. Meals every 4-6 hours so that you do not feel compelled to snack, because you are not hungry. Having the right foods on hand is crucial to avoid temptation. We will not be counting calories, but we will be focusing on a greater ratio of alkaline based foods.  My team is growing but there is still time for you to join in if you desire to live more healthily in 2013!

To your health, 
Rita S

Fresh Snacks From the Garden

Our house is bare of the types of snacks children have come to love - ice cream, cookies, biscottis...so what do you say to a 9 yr old who is not happy because she is wanting an evening snack and there is nothing she likes available.
I suggested spinach leaves with dried cranberries rolled up inside - her own snack invention...she did that earlier in the day. I suggested the flax/quinoa seed crackers...didn't feel like it.
Then it dawned on  me - the garden! Surely the carrots, her very own row, must be ready or near enough. So out we went....with a hand spade in hand.  I dug up cute little carrots for her - she was delighted.  We picked lots of vine ripened tomatoes - orange heirlooms to Romas to an heirloom Russian variety that has a blush color. I accidentally pulled up a fairly large beet when pulling a weed...time to pickle!!
Abby happily washed up her carrots and didn't even mind taking out the compost. They were super fresh, flavorful and cute - about 4" long for the longest one.
I made myself a lunch plate of little tomatoe slices...one half seasoned with Italian seasoning, the other half seasoned with Celtic sea salt and black pepper. Yum!

I just came across a recipe for a power juice at Whole Living - made with beets, carrots and apple. I am going to have to give it a try since our garden can supply 2/3 of what is needed.
Credits to this juice blend - “Detox Cred: Antioxidant superstars, red beets contain betalains, compounds that fight inflammation and support your detox by neutralizing toxins and making them water soluble and easily flushed from the body. In one study, beet fiber increased the production of detoxifying enzymes in the liver.”

As I don't have a juice extractor, I will simply use my Ninja Pro Blender, which is an awesome smoothie maker, and probably go with a bit thicker texture and benefit from the additional fiber.

Red Power Juice
Ingredients:
-1 small beet, chopped
-5 carrots, chopped
-1 apple, cored and chopped
-1/4 cup fresh mint sprigs

DirectionsPress beet, carrots, apple, and mint sprigs through a juice extractor. Stir and serve immediately.
Another smoothie using the fresh carrots, also from Whole Living, utilizes mango and we happen to have that on hand as well. I wonder if I can talk Abby into this tomorrow morning...I will just blend the carrots in the Ninja blender and strain the pulp, or I should serve all of it as I firmly believe pulp has most of the nutrients and fiber we need.

Orange Fresh Juice
 Ingredients:
1 mango, chopped (or 1 1/2 cups frozen mango chunks)
1 cup fresh carrot juice
Dash freshly grated nutmeg
1/2 cup ice cubes (omit if using frozen mango)

Directions

Puree ingredients in a blender until smooth.

How is the harvest going from your garden? Include your children in the harvest and the taste of the vegetables will be enjoyed all the more!

To your health!
Rita

Should I Try Miracle Whey?

Ideally, we would eat a whole, raw food diet for each and every meal. Whole food nutrition is always best, but for a busy lifestyle, it is not always practical. For my family, protein shakes are the “easy button” that allows us to make a fast, healthy choice in our rushed mornings.

Today, I decided to compare my morning Essential vegan protein shake made with pea/brown rice/cranberry protein to whey based Miracle Whey. Should I consider switching brands? Afterall, both contain 100% of the essential amino acids, and Dr. Mercola, whom I respect, is an advocate for Miracle Whey.

I listened to his video, and definitely agree with him that whey protein isolates have detrimental, long term effects – the processing of these proteins, done with acids, makes them “putrid” as described by Mercola. It is a very acidic product. His product, like the brand I use, is cold processed, and maintains the integrity of the original whole food sources.

An obvious difference between the two is the type of proteins, one being lactose based and the other vegan. People have told me they have a bloated feeling with whey protein, including a top brand called Dream protein.  For many, dairy and lactose based products are difficult to digest.

Personally – my husband and I both find our joints are less noisy when we avoid dairy. Many people do not realize that having a food allergy and food sensitivity are different, yet both affect the body.  An allergy, as you might expect, causes one to have a very apparent adverse reaction. A food sensitivity, on the other hand, may cause minor symptoms that a person may not even realize, or attribute, to a type of food. That is, unless they eliminate the food for several weeks, ideally a month, and note the improvement and recurrence as soon as the food is reintroduced to the diet.

For my husband and myself – our joints, the ol’ knees in particular, become much more noisy when we consume dairy. Dairy products, in general, are inflammatory.  Since eliminating dairy milk from my meals I no longer have acid reflux, which was pretty bad during the night.

As I understand it, Miracle Whey is made from whey derived from grass-fed cows, and I believe this then would be anti-inflammatory as the whey contains CLA, which is a healthy fat. Therefore, I cannot choose between the two based on inflammatory properties, as I believe both protein powders have anti-inflammatory properties. I'm not a scientist, so don't quote me on that...

Regarding purity, both are free of trace metals and other harmful ingredients. Trace metals, which build up in the body and contribute to a toxic inner-body environment, are found in many brands found in chain nutrition stores, and off your grocery or drug store shelves.

On a pH scale I would believe Miracle Whey to be further down the acidic side of the scale than a vegan protein – I would actually have to obtain a Miracle Whey sample and test it with one of my pH strips to compare. Because my eating lifestyle is cancer preventative focused – my goal is to eat as much on the alkaline side as possible in hopes of achieving a neutral body pH. This is speculation on my part, so I may actually have to spend some money on obtaining Miracle Whey in order to place a pH strip in it.

I printed out the Miracle Whey ingredient label and compared side by side. Caloric intake per serving is the same at 160. Calories from fat – again, both match at 30, however, here the difference is the vegan shake does not contain any saturated fat or cholesterol.

Miracle Whey delivers 32 grams of  protein and 0 fiber, whereas essential protein delivers 20 grams of protein, but does offer a smidgen of soluable fiber at 1 gram.  On this note I will say that Mercola recommends Miracle Whey as a post-workout recovery shake, and not necessarily a meal replacement; whereas the product I use is a meal replacement, and satiates for longer periods when I add a scoop of soluable fiber that is both tasteless and non-grainy.

The real skinny on the comparison takes place when I compare vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants. Truly, there is no comparison in this regard. With Miracle Whey one gets calcium, of course, some iron, and potassium. That’s it.

With my current brand I get a broad spectrum of 20 essential vitamins and minerals, including A, complex B, calcium, and magnesium, the latter of which is deficient in every cancer patient. My shake contains no iron, which I prefer, as Americans consume too much iron and iron toxicity is being linked to cancer, and is a hot topic on the cancer prevention front currently.

What really sets my morning protein shake apart, however, are the anti-oxidants, and for me – trying to live a cancer preventative lifestyle – anti-oxidants are critical in renewing health on a cellular level. A few of the anti-oxidants I consume every morning in my shake include CoQ10, selenium, and has added benefits of alfalfa, kelp and ginseng root powder.  (All non GMO, of course.)

In summary, although I am curious about Miracle Whey, I am already experiencing great benefits with my vegan pea/brown rice/cranberry based protein powder.  My doctor is very pleased with my “age reduction” that goes hand in hand with my 85 lb. weight reduction. My shakes taste great, and I have already tasted a premium whey protein side by side before that was just awful, and cost $30 more per container for the same amount of servings. I cannot imagine Miracle Whey is really going to taste any better than the other whey product, and certainly not as good as the one I am using.

Perhaps I should follow my dad’s advice from my childhood, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”

To your health,
Rita S.

Enlarged Thyroid- To Biopsy or Not?

I want to share a testimony from one of my clients this past weekend - it made me so HAPPY to hear it and fires my passion for my health and wellness business even more.

A few months ago a friend had an enlarged thyroid gland, blood count was high - they wanted to do a biopsy, of course. She wanted to hold off and do some research (smart gal) although she was pretty upset and scared about it. She ...asked my thought - and my thoughts turned to the book I have on thyroid and iodine by Dr. David Brownstein: "Iodine, Why You Need It And Why You Can't Live Without It" and "Overcoming Thyroid Disorders". (the latter available on video as well)

Per Brownstein, everyone with a thyroid issue is deficient in iodine. I have seen this affirmed in newsletters by Dr. Russel Blaylock, Jonathon Wright and more. Of course I told my friend, "I'm not a doctor, but if it were me I would increase my transdermal progesterone Prolief cream and take an iodine supplement" - and gave her my book and thyroid video.

Thyroid disorders has reached epidemic proportions in this country. I would propose that 1 in 5 women I meet at a home party/workshop have hypothyroid. Most are on medication. All have gained weight - as a properly functioning thyroid is essential for metabolism. The number of people I meet with this problem is CRAZY!

For many the meds are not working, which in large part has to do with an individuals ability to process the hormone/thyroid drug being given for conversion. Brownstein is an advocate of natural pig thyroid hormone. Armour is popular and it was his first choice for years, but in one of his 2011 newsletters I recall reading that the drug company who makes Armour changed formulations and it does not work as well as it had for a number of people, and he is recommending another. Something to be aware of...  You may find more at his web site

Brownstein also has a book out on the Miracle of Natural Hormones, but thus far the BEST books I have read on hormone balance and bHRT are by Dr. John Lee/Hopkins/Zava - the "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About....(series)" and Dr. Michael Platt's "Miracle of Bio-Identical Hormones" - which is a book that can give hope to anyone with a severe disorder or life threatening depression, obesity, adrenal fatigue, ADD/ADHD, auto immune and more.  You can find these books both at your library and on line at amazon.com

Back to my friend, I don't recall if she consulted the naturopath I recommended. She started putting PROLIEF cream directly on her enlarged thyroid 3x daily, switched to the Celtic sea salt I had bought and shared, and used an iodine supplement as well. In one month the enlarged thyroid returned to normal and new blood tests revealed all was well too. Happy ending. Peace of mind.

It just goes to show that self-educaon is important, as it gives us confidence to not be rushed into an invasive procedure. My greatest concern with a biopsy is that the chances of the needle hitting a cell that might actually have cancer in it, could then cause that cancer to spread, as I am recall from one of Blaylock's newsletters. I actually found a report on a study on this subject - it is a worthy read: The Moss Report.

A glimpse into a paragraph, "A June 2004 report from the John Wayne Cancer Institute in California has rekindled a long-standing debate over whether or not needle biopsies are safe. The paper set out to examine whether this technique, widely used to obtain specimens in cases of suspected cancer, might itself allow malignant cells to spread from an isolated tumor to nearby lymph nodes. The authors reluctantly conclude that a needle biopsy may indeed increase the spread of the disease by 50 percent compared to patients who receive the more traditional excisional biopsies (or "lumpectomies").

Self-educate for your own health and well -being readers! It can make all the difference in quality of life and longevity, if that is something you desire.

 

To your health,

Rita S.

Green Machine Avocado Smoothie!

This smoothie will kick-start your morning (or pick you up from a sluggish mid-afternoon) with a power-packed punch of delicious green fruits and vegetables. The recipe was created by Patrick Decker and I found it on another consultants Facebook wall. I love how creative we get when it comes to eating clean and green! (LOL)

You will get an ample helping of Omega 3s in this recipe, and check out the benefits of each God created plant!

Avocado contains a punch of anti oxidants, contains 25 essential nutrients, helps lower cholesterol and regulate blood pressure.

Spinach and other dark leafy greens like kale, collards, Swiss chard, turnip greens and bok choy are loaded with calcium, folic acid, vitamin K and iron. Spinach is also rich in vitamin C, fiber and carotenoids. Add its lutein and bioflavanoids and spinach is a nutritional powerhouse.

Watercress contains iron, calcium and frolic acid, watercress also provides vitamin A and C.

Parsley provides nature's best carotenoids and is a nutrition powerhouse of a few known anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory phytonutrients and flavonoids (lutein, zeaxanthin, apiole, rutin and apigenin).  Also rich with chlorophyll, vitamin A, B, C, and K, folic acid and iron.  It has high beneficial mineral contents like calcium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, vanadium, and zinc. Happily I just planted some last night because I learned that swallowtail butterflies like it to lay their eggs upon, and we would like to hatch some this year!

INGREDIENTS

 • 2-4 scoops AB Essentials Vanilla Protein Shake Mix

• 2 scoops AB Essentials Daily Fiber Boost

• 1 ripe avocado, coarsely chopped

• 1 small bunch spinach (about 2 cups of leaves), coarsely chopped

• 1/2 small bunch watercress (about 1 cups of leaves), coarsely chopped

• 1 handful chopped flat-leaf parsley or kale (about 1/4 cup)

• 1 cup ice cubes

• 3/4 to 1 cup water or Silk brand Almond Milk

• 1 to 2 tablespoons agave syrup or honey, if needed

PREPARATION

Combine all of the ingredients except the agave and water or juice in the jar of a blender and puree until smooth, streaming in the liquid as needed to thin the smoothie out to the consistency you like. Adjust the sweetness to your liking with the agave or honey. Serve.

I will add that you might consider brewing up some green detox tea, allow it to cool and freeze in ice cube trays - adding in a couple of cubes that offer the benefit of the powerful ECGC anti oxidant!
I hope this recipe gives you the energy and kick you need to make it a great day!

To your health,
Rita