This morning I met a young woman in worship who was not feeling well…experiencing morning sickness in her 17th week. I did the math in my head. “That’s not typical,” I thought. To me it seems that this women’s body is not producing enough progesterone. I found an empty piece of paper in my bible and wrote down some URLs from memory of where she could go to learn more about hormone balance and how progesterone, “the feel good, happy hormone absolutely necessary for the well-being of fetal development”. I had to step out of my comfort zone to be bold enough to bring this up after worship, and talk to her about it. Every women deserves to feel GREAT during pregnancy, it is a gift from God.
I have to tell you that as a woman in balance 13 years ago, I did not even know I was pregnant with our son until 16 weeks into the pregnancy. Pregnancy was great – I had lots of energy, redecorated the house, Christmas shopped in July so I would not have to do it with a baby in tow come December, etc.
Think about the word P R O G E S T E R O N E – what do you see? Progest. Progestation. Gestation. Progesterone is essential for progestation to happen. It is necessary to prevent miscarriage and necessary for brain development of the fetus. As women, when we become pregnant the level of progesterone in our bodies continually rises until we have a 100x more than what we would have had prior to become pregnant. There is no doubt that God has created us because only divine wisdom could build bodies such as ours.
If you google “progesterone and pregnancy” you will think I am crazy. Old information, mis information abounds on this subject. Although I am not a doctor, I have read A LOT about hormones this past year for personal reasons. Multiple sources, books, scientific studies, women’s health sites on line, claim the many benefits of the “procreation hormone”. To help weed through the contradictory information, one might start with the Progesterone Advisory Network. Their home page does a great job explaining why so little is known about hormone balance and why progesterone is so misunderstood. I highly recommend that if you visit this blog, to stop right now and read this first page at very least: http://www.natural-progesterone-advisory-network.com/
Doctor Katharina Dalton researched progesterone and pregnancy all the way back in 1968. Of course, here in the U.S. we do not hear of these studies, unless we go looking for them. There is no money for big Pharma in promoting a product that is all natural and made by the human body - it cannot be patented and therefore cannot make them money.
Dr. Dalton calls morning sickness “a sign that the ovarian progesterone is insufficient and the placenta is not yet secreting enough progesterone.” She says that giving the woman extra progesterone will ease the symptoms. PLEASE, PLEASE read this entire article, print it out and take it to your doctor if you are experiencing morning sickness. Check out the NPAN site for additional articles on progesterone and pregnancy. I have additional women’s health sites in my sidebar for your convenience as well.
Doctors may counter because of the misinformation that is out there. Again, please do your own diligence. When you consider that progesterone is key for pro-gestation – it makes absolute sense that you need it, and that it needs to be in balance with estrogen for the most pleasurable pregnancy experience ever.
The NPAN site also has available, in addition to a great e-book, a FREE 50 page PDF on progesterone and what you must know. This may sound silly, but print it out, burn it to a CD, and give your doctor a copy. I have taken it upon myself to educate my own doctor on hormone balance. My last physical, and something she has said, gave me concern that she may misunderstand what is going on during pre-menopause, and handed her one of Dr. John Lee's books, "What Your Doctor May Not Know about Pre-Menopause".
When I attended Dr. Stacey Bean’s women’s health seminar in Madison, November 2010, she stated that they received ONE month in all their years of medical training on hormones. ONE MONTH! Yet hormone imbalance is truly the cause of pretty much every disease and illness. Instead, the medical school curriculum is focused on treatment, and training heavily directed by the prescription drug companies. If your read the testimonies by other doctors who use the Natural Progesterone Advisory Network as their go to resource, they an attest to Dr. Bean's story.
Speaking of which, when you talk to your doctor about progesterone and pregnancy, do NOT let them prescribe HRT, synthetic progestin. They may think, "okay, this person wants to try progesterone, I will prescribe it". It is not the same! Drug companies ried tto reproduce that which God has made naturally, is not recognized by the human body as progesterone, and serious outcomes may be realized, with cancer being just one example.
Pregnant? Congratulations! This should be one of the most amazing experiences in your life. It is never too late to focus on getting hormones into balance. Food, environment, skin care, and sometimes even genetics can be a precursor to estrogen dominance. Take control. Learn. Act. You deserve to relish in the gift God has placed in your womb.
ENJOY YOUR PREGNANCY!
Rita S.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Monday, July 25, 2011
Bio-Identical Progesterone Cream - Part 2
Previously I shared how, where and when to apply progesterone cream – based on various resources and information provided to me. Generally, I am in agreement with the statement that “more is not always better”. However, I have seen a flip side to that coin – a side that Dr. Michael Platt shares in his book, “The Miracle of Bio-Identical Progesterone Cream.”
It’s important to understand that in his book, Platt shares patient case histories of which these people had not found relief for many years from the standard medical establishment. In approaching Platt for help – they were very desperate, and quality of life had been stripped away, often worsened by prescription drugs and a “band-aid approach” that were administered to them. Platt advocates for 100 mg. of bio-identical progesterone cream a day, whereas Dr. Lee John Lee feels there is no reason to dose that beyond which the body would normally produce in a day (30-40 mgs). As I mentioned in part one, I utilize 40 mg a day, which has contributed greatly to my ease of weight loss.
Dire Straits…
I have a friend with fibromyalgia. When I read the chapter in Dr. Platt’s book on fibromyalgia I saw my friend completely in the case study presented. I’ve known a long time that my friend was/is estrogen dominant – with complaints of hot flashes, brain fog, migraines, and a body shape prevalent in estrogen dominant women as described by Dr. Lee. After reading Platt’s book I knew I could no longer hold my tongue… I had to share with my friend that progesterone cream could very well improve her quality of life. She agreed to give the Prolief a try, and took my instructions for diet change somewhat to heart. With the Prolief I gave her the “how to” handout provided by Dr. Stacey Bean.
About a month later I receive an SOS call on a Monday evening...my friend had had a terrible day. She had attended a meeting that day and everything that was said made absolutely no sense. Her brain was in such a fog she could comprehend nothing, and felt like she had lost her mind. My friend was at the end of her rope and the distress in her voice was quite apparent. I had left a message a few days earlier, telling her I had to share with her what I had read in Dr. Platt’s book about fibromyalgia. She was ready to listen…and I quickly read parts of the chapter to her over the phone.
Again, I stressed the importance of gluten-free – which can be key factor in contributing to auto-immune disease. A person may not test positive for a gluten allergy, but the body can still react to it – gluten is highly inflammatory, and people with auto-immune are especially sensitive to inflammatory foods. I reviewed the 28 Day Jumpstart Elimination Diet with her again, put together by Cambiati Wellness. My friend said she had to do something, and would be more coachable and listen to my advice regarding diet changes.
I then shared Dr. Platt’s thoughts on progesterone dosage – being that he recommends 100 mg of USP progesterone per day. It seemed his patients were about as over the top symptomatic as she was, and suggested she consult with her doctor on progesterone dose, and also recommended her thyroid (important to test for TSH free) be checked (as fibro and hypothyroid go hand in hand).
My friend decided to increase her progesterone dosage to 3x a day – for a total of 60 mg of USP progesterone. Later that week, on Friday, I was teaching a hormone balance class in town, and I invited my friend to join us and learn more on the topic. When the Prolief was brought up she piped right up, and shared with everyone how desperate she had been five days ago. By increasing her dosage the brain fog lifted and she could think clearly again, and the pain in her arms had notably improved. Even I was surprised to learn of her body’s quick response to the additional progesterone, and I could hear hope in that voice for the first time in a long time. I guess that is why I love my job with Arbonne so much – nothing makes me happier than helping people feel better. I have an opportunity to make a real difference in this world…and that is why I am passionate about sharing my journey to restored well-being with all of you.
To your health!
Rita S.
It’s important to understand that in his book, Platt shares patient case histories of which these people had not found relief for many years from the standard medical establishment. In approaching Platt for help – they were very desperate, and quality of life had been stripped away, often worsened by prescription drugs and a “band-aid approach” that were administered to them. Platt advocates for 100 mg. of bio-identical progesterone cream a day, whereas Dr. Lee John Lee feels there is no reason to dose that beyond which the body would normally produce in a day (30-40 mgs). As I mentioned in part one, I utilize 40 mg a day, which has contributed greatly to my ease of weight loss.
Dire Straits…
I have a friend with fibromyalgia. When I read the chapter in Dr. Platt’s book on fibromyalgia I saw my friend completely in the case study presented. I’ve known a long time that my friend was/is estrogen dominant – with complaints of hot flashes, brain fog, migraines, and a body shape prevalent in estrogen dominant women as described by Dr. Lee. After reading Platt’s book I knew I could no longer hold my tongue… I had to share with my friend that progesterone cream could very well improve her quality of life. She agreed to give the Prolief a try, and took my instructions for diet change somewhat to heart. With the Prolief I gave her the “how to” handout provided by Dr. Stacey Bean.
About a month later I receive an SOS call on a Monday evening...my friend had had a terrible day. She had attended a meeting that day and everything that was said made absolutely no sense. Her brain was in such a fog she could comprehend nothing, and felt like she had lost her mind. My friend was at the end of her rope and the distress in her voice was quite apparent. I had left a message a few days earlier, telling her I had to share with her what I had read in Dr. Platt’s book about fibromyalgia. She was ready to listen…and I quickly read parts of the chapter to her over the phone.
Again, I stressed the importance of gluten-free – which can be key factor in contributing to auto-immune disease. A person may not test positive for a gluten allergy, but the body can still react to it – gluten is highly inflammatory, and people with auto-immune are especially sensitive to inflammatory foods. I reviewed the 28 Day Jumpstart Elimination Diet with her again, put together by Cambiati Wellness. My friend said she had to do something, and would be more coachable and listen to my advice regarding diet changes.
I then shared Dr. Platt’s thoughts on progesterone dosage – being that he recommends 100 mg of USP progesterone per day. It seemed his patients were about as over the top symptomatic as she was, and suggested she consult with her doctor on progesterone dose, and also recommended her thyroid (important to test for TSH free) be checked (as fibro and hypothyroid go hand in hand).
My friend decided to increase her progesterone dosage to 3x a day – for a total of 60 mg of USP progesterone. Later that week, on Friday, I was teaching a hormone balance class in town, and I invited my friend to join us and learn more on the topic. When the Prolief was brought up she piped right up, and shared with everyone how desperate she had been five days ago. By increasing her dosage the brain fog lifted and she could think clearly again, and the pain in her arms had notably improved. Even I was surprised to learn of her body’s quick response to the additional progesterone, and I could hear hope in that voice for the first time in a long time. I guess that is why I love my job with Arbonne so much – nothing makes me happier than helping people feel better. I have an opportunity to make a real difference in this world…and that is why I am passionate about sharing my journey to restored well-being with all of you.
To your health!
Rita S.
Bio-Identical Progeserone How To - Part 1
I’ve been asked, “how do you apply progesterone cream” – and I am happy to say – very easily! What I share today is derived from a hand-out Dr. Stacey Bean has provided to Arbonne consultants, which is based on Dr. John Lee’s protocol for progesterone cream. However, I also add in that which Dr. Michael Platt tells of, as well as additional resources, which are noted.
What…
First, let’s simply discuss the type of progesterone to use, and why transdermal cream vs. oral pill. To put it simply, both Dr. John Lee, Dr. Michael Platt, and a host of others, feel transdermal cream is the way to go – as oral pills have to bypass the liver and the end result is converted into a different type of progesterone. A transdermal cream, applied on thin skin areas, allows the bio-identical hormone of progesterone to go directly into the bloodstream so it can begin its effectiveness.
Where…
While Dr. Lee recommends alternating where the cream is applied each time: inner arms, forehead, face, neck, upper chest, breasts and bottoms of non-callused feet; Dr. Platt states to simply apply cream to the inside of the forearm and wrists. After having read the latter, I find it much easier to apply the cream at night when I am tired after a long day. I quickly pop the cap off my Prolief bottle, push down on the pump to deliver my ¼ tsp. of progesterone cream (free of trace metals), apply directly to one inner forearm, and then rub both forearms together until the cream is absorbed. I love the convenience of the pump as I don’t have to measure anything or even get any on my hands with this method. Convenience goes a long way in preventing me from skipping an application due to being wore out. For those who know me, I am up late almost nightly researching, blogging, and sharing what I learn…I go to bed when I realize I am nodding off at the computer. I have to talk myself in to brushing my teeth some nights!
However, when I am not feeling so lazy I do move it around from place to place as Lee recommends, but it is nice to know it is not necessary. I find Platt’s recommendation especially helpful if a man or younger person chooses to use the cream, and doesn’t want to have to think too much about where, how and when. Let’s face it, if it is difficult most people won’t do it.
When…
Morning and night…twice a day for women. Men need only to apply progesterone cream once a day.
It’s important to apply progesterone cream on to clean skin – before you apply other lotions, oils, make-up, etc.; or after you have washed up at the end of the day.
Location! Location! Location!
Fatty tissue areas gets progesterone into the cells versus the bloodstream. An example would be on the breasts, and I am the first to admit when I received my first bottle of Prolief, I could not wait to apply the cream on the areas squished and damaged from my last mammogram, in hopes it could help heal any damaged tissues. Breast application was also done in a European study that Lee mentions in his book, “What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Breast Cancer” to alleviate fibrocystic breasts symptoms.
Another example of applying transdermal cream to fatty tissue areas is for cramping…
For Menstrual Cramps
Doctors are quick to prescribe birth control pills to teenage girls with menstrual cramps. BCP, of course, contain synthetic hormones, and really tends to exasperate hormone imbalances, and side effects of birth control can really cause problems for a number of women, especially down the line.
The Natural Progesterone Advisory Network states: Try applying progesterone cream just above the pubic area at the onset of uterine cramping. For women who are still menstruating, the most effective time to apply progesterone cream is 12 days after the 1st day of your period, continue use for 14 days then stop. Repeat each month.
Dosage Amount
Prolief, the cream I use, delivers 20 mg of USP progesterone with each pre-metered pump. Dr. Lee is an advocate of a 20 mg dose in the morning and one in evening to mimic the amount a woman in her child-bearing years would naturally produce.
Platt, on the other hand, claims 40 mg a day is not enough for an estrogen dominant/progesterone deficient women, and in his book, “The Miracle of Bio-Identical Hormones” advocates for 100 mg of USP progesterone per day.
There are two sides to every coin, and I have to say – I see validity in both perspectives. For a person like myself, with estrogen dominant/insulin over production symptoms that really do not curtail my quality of life – 40 mg a day is plenty. For a friend of mine who had cramping, mood swings, breast tenderness – basically a bad case of PMS, 40 mg improved her symptoms in a month’s time. (It is important to note that Dr. Lee states it can take 3-4 months for symptoms to alleviate as the gap between imbalance begins to close.)
However, Platt’s method(s) do have a place, I feel…and I am going to share a story that illustrates when more may be better…but you will have to tune in to part two of this topic to come soon!
I have made it easy for you not to miss one of my blog posts - at the upper right of the screen is a "subscribe" option, that should notify you everytime I post a new thread to my blog.
To your health!
Rita S.
What…
First, let’s simply discuss the type of progesterone to use, and why transdermal cream vs. oral pill. To put it simply, both Dr. John Lee, Dr. Michael Platt, and a host of others, feel transdermal cream is the way to go – as oral pills have to bypass the liver and the end result is converted into a different type of progesterone. A transdermal cream, applied on thin skin areas, allows the bio-identical hormone of progesterone to go directly into the bloodstream so it can begin its effectiveness.
Where…
While Dr. Lee recommends alternating where the cream is applied each time: inner arms, forehead, face, neck, upper chest, breasts and bottoms of non-callused feet; Dr. Platt states to simply apply cream to the inside of the forearm and wrists. After having read the latter, I find it much easier to apply the cream at night when I am tired after a long day. I quickly pop the cap off my Prolief bottle, push down on the pump to deliver my ¼ tsp. of progesterone cream (free of trace metals), apply directly to one inner forearm, and then rub both forearms together until the cream is absorbed. I love the convenience of the pump as I don’t have to measure anything or even get any on my hands with this method. Convenience goes a long way in preventing me from skipping an application due to being wore out. For those who know me, I am up late almost nightly researching, blogging, and sharing what I learn…I go to bed when I realize I am nodding off at the computer. I have to talk myself in to brushing my teeth some nights!
However, when I am not feeling so lazy I do move it around from place to place as Lee recommends, but it is nice to know it is not necessary. I find Platt’s recommendation especially helpful if a man or younger person chooses to use the cream, and doesn’t want to have to think too much about where, how and when. Let’s face it, if it is difficult most people won’t do it.
When…
Morning and night…twice a day for women. Men need only to apply progesterone cream once a day.
It’s important to apply progesterone cream on to clean skin – before you apply other lotions, oils, make-up, etc.; or after you have washed up at the end of the day.
Location! Location! Location!
Fatty tissue areas gets progesterone into the cells versus the bloodstream. An example would be on the breasts, and I am the first to admit when I received my first bottle of Prolief, I could not wait to apply the cream on the areas squished and damaged from my last mammogram, in hopes it could help heal any damaged tissues. Breast application was also done in a European study that Lee mentions in his book, “What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Breast Cancer” to alleviate fibrocystic breasts symptoms.
Another example of applying transdermal cream to fatty tissue areas is for cramping…
For Menstrual Cramps
Doctors are quick to prescribe birth control pills to teenage girls with menstrual cramps. BCP, of course, contain synthetic hormones, and really tends to exasperate hormone imbalances, and side effects of birth control can really cause problems for a number of women, especially down the line.
The Natural Progesterone Advisory Network states: Try applying progesterone cream just above the pubic area at the onset of uterine cramping. For women who are still menstruating, the most effective time to apply progesterone cream is 12 days after the 1st day of your period, continue use for 14 days then stop. Repeat each month.
Dosage Amount
Prolief, the cream I use, delivers 20 mg of USP progesterone with each pre-metered pump. Dr. Lee is an advocate of a 20 mg dose in the morning and one in evening to mimic the amount a woman in her child-bearing years would naturally produce.
Platt, on the other hand, claims 40 mg a day is not enough for an estrogen dominant/progesterone deficient women, and in his book, “The Miracle of Bio-Identical Hormones” advocates for 100 mg of USP progesterone per day.
There are two sides to every coin, and I have to say – I see validity in both perspectives. For a person like myself, with estrogen dominant/insulin over production symptoms that really do not curtail my quality of life – 40 mg a day is plenty. For a friend of mine who had cramping, mood swings, breast tenderness – basically a bad case of PMS, 40 mg improved her symptoms in a month’s time. (It is important to note that Dr. Lee states it can take 3-4 months for symptoms to alleviate as the gap between imbalance begins to close.)
However, Platt’s method(s) do have a place, I feel…and I am going to share a story that illustrates when more may be better…but you will have to tune in to part two of this topic to come soon!
I have made it easy for you not to miss one of my blog posts - at the upper right of the screen is a "subscribe" option, that should notify you everytime I post a new thread to my blog.
To your health!
Rita S.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Infertility and Miscarriage - Prevalent in Our Times
Today as I drove through the industrial park in Middleton, I noted two newer facilities, both specializing clinics in infertility. Surely these facilities are a sign of the times we live in. A time when infertility is at an all-time high, and miscarriages have become an epidemic vs. a rarity, with one in three pregnancies ending in miscarriage.
One must question, why? Why is it so difficult for women to conceive? What is the underlying cause?
To shed some light on these questions one has to look at the physiology of the human body. What is necessary for pregnancy to take place?
For certain, hormone balance plays a crucial role. However, we live in an industrialized nation in which we are exposed to chemicals that produce xenoestrogens. These faux estrogens enter our body as we come in contact with pesticides, herbicides, household cleaners, skincare and cosmetics, food dyes and preservatives…that’s just the tip of the iceberg. All disrupt the endocrine system, which is an intricate communication network within the body. And all make many, many of us (men and women alike) estrogen dominant.
For women trying to get pregnant, this is a problem. When we, as women, have too much estrogen we also have too little progesterone. Progesterone, sometimes referred to as the “hormone of pregnancy” is essential for ovulation, for fetal development, and helps prevent miscarriage upon conception.
Per the Virginia Hopkins web-site: Ovulation is the first requirement for pregnancy, but we can’t take it for granted, even in young women. As reported by Peter Ellison of Harvard, a study of 19 presumably healthy premenopausal women with a mean age of 29 found that six of them -- or 31 percent -- failed to ovulate at any time during their menstrual cycle.
From the same article, which you can read in its entirety here: “Exposure to pesticides or other petrochemical xenobiotics (environmental substances with hormonal effects) during the embryonic period is particularly damaging to the development of ovaries. (For details, read Our Stolen Future by Theo Colborn et al.) That is, the mother may not show toxic effects to minute doses of these toxins, but the embryo is exquisitely sensitive to them. If the embryo is female, her ovarian follicles may be damaged.”
Check out the entire article here: http://www.virginiahopkinstestkits.com/infertility.html
You may recall from previous posts that petrochemicals are in our food dyes and preservatives, and also in our U.S. formulated skin care and cosmetic products, often in the form of mineral oil, which is an inexpensive filler made from crude oil.
An excerpt from the Natural Progesterone Advisory Network reads: “During pregnancy, rising progesterone levels prevent the premature shedding of the uterine lining (pro-gestation). If progesterone levels drop due to inadequate progesterone production, then a premature delivery could result, or bring about a miscarriage in the early trimesters…
To protect the fetus the body secretes ten to fifteen times more progesterone during pregnancy than at other times. Dr. Lee tells us that the placenta becomes the major source of progesterone. per day during the third trimester. What a great protection we have during pregnancy with this incredible hormone! And with no known dangerous side effects.”
Lee also states that it is important for high risk pregnancies to continue using progesterone cream throughout the pregnancy, and to wean off slowly when going off.
I have also read about the correlation between too little progesterone and adequate in regards to the effect on brain development of the baby, with progesterone deficiency being linked to ADD, ADHD, and other possible brain disorders.
There is so much more I could write, but please check out the links instead. Suffice it to say, when my parents were young infertility clinics may not have even existed. Now we can have two such dedicated clinics less than a mile part. Think about it!
If you would like to learn more and live in the area, email to find out about a hormone balance class coming up this coming Wednesday, July 27th. Information will be shared that women of ALL ages hould hear. It may be life changing.
To your health!
Rita S.
One must question, why? Why is it so difficult for women to conceive? What is the underlying cause?
To shed some light on these questions one has to look at the physiology of the human body. What is necessary for pregnancy to take place?
For certain, hormone balance plays a crucial role. However, we live in an industrialized nation in which we are exposed to chemicals that produce xenoestrogens. These faux estrogens enter our body as we come in contact with pesticides, herbicides, household cleaners, skincare and cosmetics, food dyes and preservatives…that’s just the tip of the iceberg. All disrupt the endocrine system, which is an intricate communication network within the body. And all make many, many of us (men and women alike) estrogen dominant.
For women trying to get pregnant, this is a problem. When we, as women, have too much estrogen we also have too little progesterone. Progesterone, sometimes referred to as the “hormone of pregnancy” is essential for ovulation, for fetal development, and helps prevent miscarriage upon conception.
Per the Virginia Hopkins web-site: Ovulation is the first requirement for pregnancy, but we can’t take it for granted, even in young women. As reported by Peter Ellison of Harvard, a study of 19 presumably healthy premenopausal women with a mean age of 29 found that six of them -- or 31 percent -- failed to ovulate at any time during their menstrual cycle.
From the same article, which you can read in its entirety here: “Exposure to pesticides or other petrochemical xenobiotics (environmental substances with hormonal effects) during the embryonic period is particularly damaging to the development of ovaries. (For details, read Our Stolen Future by Theo Colborn et al.) That is, the mother may not show toxic effects to minute doses of these toxins, but the embryo is exquisitely sensitive to them. If the embryo is female, her ovarian follicles may be damaged.”
Check out the entire article here: http://www.virginiahopkinstestkits.com/infertility.html
You may recall from previous posts that petrochemicals are in our food dyes and preservatives, and also in our U.S. formulated skin care and cosmetic products, often in the form of mineral oil, which is an inexpensive filler made from crude oil.
An excerpt from the Natural Progesterone Advisory Network reads: “During pregnancy, rising progesterone levels prevent the premature shedding of the uterine lining (pro-gestation). If progesterone levels drop due to inadequate progesterone production, then a premature delivery could result, or bring about a miscarriage in the early trimesters…
To protect the fetus the body secretes ten to fifteen times more progesterone during pregnancy than at other times. Dr. Lee tells us that the placenta becomes the major source of progesterone. per day during the third trimester. What a great protection we have during pregnancy with this incredible hormone! And with no known dangerous side effects.”
Lee also states that it is important for high risk pregnancies to continue using progesterone cream throughout the pregnancy, and to wean off slowly when going off.
I have also read about the correlation between too little progesterone and adequate in regards to the effect on brain development of the baby, with progesterone deficiency being linked to ADD, ADHD, and other possible brain disorders.
There is so much more I could write, but please check out the links instead. Suffice it to say, when my parents were young infertility clinics may not have even existed. Now we can have two such dedicated clinics less than a mile part. Think about it!
If you would like to learn more and live in the area, email to find out about a hormone balance class coming up this coming Wednesday, July 27th. Information will be shared that women of ALL ages hould hear. It may be life changing.
To your health!
Rita S.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Summer Garden Recipe - Beets!!
If you don't have beets in your garden - you can find them in the farmer's market. Growing up I LOVED pickled beets. A fellow beet lover asked me to post the recipe for her, but before I do - let's find out why beets are good for us...
Nutritin and You declares, Beets are highly nutritious and “cardiovascular health” friendly root vegetables. Certain unique pigment antioxidants present in this plant have found to offer protection against coronary artery disease and stroke, lower cholesterol levels in the body and have anti-aging effects.
Organicfacts.com states: Beets or beetroots, as they are called, belong to the Chenopodiaceous family. Health benefits of beet roots can be attributed to their richness in nutrients, vitamins and minerals. They are a source of carotenoids and lutein/zeaxanthin. Beets are also rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, magnesium, iron, copper and phosphorus. Beet is a source of beneficial flavonoids called anthycyanins. They are very low in calories but have the highest sugar content of all vegetables. It is also used to make refined sugar.
Beet fiber helps to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides by increasing the level of HDL. Rich in folate, beets are great for the pregnant women. One cup of raw beets is high in carbohydrates and low in fat. It contains phosphorus, sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron, and potassium, as well as fiber, vitamins A and C, niacin, and biotin. So although it may not fit into a truly low-carb diet, sometimes a vegi has so many health benefits that I don't even care about the carbs.
An article at associatedcontent.com writes: Not only are beets a great boost to your physical well being and a wonderful source of iron, it has been shown to be an immunity booster and guard against cancer. Additionally just as one learns to appreciate and discover and acquire tastes for various wines or cheeses, beets are one of those overlooked vegetables that once you realize all it beholds, you will cultivate a new appreciation and yes, maybe even love for them!"I have to agree -perhaps you have a disdain for beets. Well, give this recipe a try! None of the other members in my family cared for beets until I made this roasted recipe, which is a great side dish with grilled steak, pork or chicken this summer.
Out of This World Cooked Beets (Serves 6-8)
6 cups of raw, diced beets
Diced onion (1 small or half of large)
3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
2 T extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp. dry thyme
salt/pepper to taste
2 T. no salt butter cut into pieces (organic preferred)
Directions: Peel beets and dice. Spray 9x9 baking pan with cooking spray, grease with butter, or thinly coat with olive oil. Mix beets, onion and garlic. Spread evenly into pan. Sprinkle with olive oil and seasonings. Bake at 375 degrees uncovered for 25 minutes. Stir in 1/3 c. water, white wine vinegar OR balsamic vinegar. Place chunks of butter on top. Bake 10 min. more. Serve.
Enjoy!
To your health!
Rita S.
Nutritin and You declares, Beets are highly nutritious and “cardiovascular health” friendly root vegetables. Certain unique pigment antioxidants present in this plant have found to offer protection against coronary artery disease and stroke, lower cholesterol levels in the body and have anti-aging effects.
Organicfacts.com states: Beets or beetroots, as they are called, belong to the Chenopodiaceous family. Health benefits of beet roots can be attributed to their richness in nutrients, vitamins and minerals. They are a source of carotenoids and lutein/zeaxanthin. Beets are also rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, magnesium, iron, copper and phosphorus. Beet is a source of beneficial flavonoids called anthycyanins. They are very low in calories but have the highest sugar content of all vegetables. It is also used to make refined sugar.
Beet fiber helps to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides by increasing the level of HDL. Rich in folate, beets are great for the pregnant women. One cup of raw beets is high in carbohydrates and low in fat. It contains phosphorus, sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron, and potassium, as well as fiber, vitamins A and C, niacin, and biotin. So although it may not fit into a truly low-carb diet, sometimes a vegi has so many health benefits that I don't even care about the carbs.
An article at associatedcontent.com writes: Not only are beets a great boost to your physical well being and a wonderful source of iron, it has been shown to be an immunity booster and guard against cancer. Additionally just as one learns to appreciate and discover and acquire tastes for various wines or cheeses, beets are one of those overlooked vegetables that once you realize all it beholds, you will cultivate a new appreciation and yes, maybe even love for them!"I have to agree -perhaps you have a disdain for beets. Well, give this recipe a try! None of the other members in my family cared for beets until I made this roasted recipe, which is a great side dish with grilled steak, pork or chicken this summer.
Out of This World Cooked Beets (Serves 6-8)
6 cups of raw, diced beets
Diced onion (1 small or half of large)
3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
2 T extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp. dry thyme
salt/pepper to taste
2 T. no salt butter cut into pieces (organic preferred)
Directions: Peel beets and dice. Spray 9x9 baking pan with cooking spray, grease with butter, or thinly coat with olive oil. Mix beets, onion and garlic. Spread evenly into pan. Sprinkle with olive oil and seasonings. Bake at 375 degrees uncovered for 25 minutes. Stir in 1/3 c. water, white wine vinegar OR balsamic vinegar. Place chunks of butter on top. Bake 10 min. more. Serve.
Enjoy!
To your health!
Rita S.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Hormones - God's Synergy Within
FACT: Men and women produce exactly the same hormones, albeit in different amounts.FACT: Out of balance hormones affect both men and women with a myriad of symptoms and disease.
FACT: Synthetic hormones cannot moleculary duplicate that which God has made.
The truth of the matter is that God created amazing machinery inside us. I wish I could show you a computerized simulation of how DNA, cells and more work inside our body from session 2 of the Truth Project series on science. When I saw that video it was liking watching all the books I have been reading come to life! It was awesome!
"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:14
God created hormones that work synergestically together - when our hormones are in sync our bodies are in harmony. When our hormones are out of balance our bodies cannot heal itself as God designed. God did not create a world full of chemicals... man did. These chemicals find their way into our foods, environment, skincare, and even the air we breathe. They alter our hormones - and mess up that which God made. How sad. Sad mostly because we are in general a sick population of people, versus a healthy one. Business is booming for the health care industry - because our hormones our out of whack. Today I am sharing some notes from reading Dr. Platt's book. However, these notes are somewhat repetitive to what I have shared previoulsy in reading Dr. John Lee's books, and more. For me, finding the same information in a multitude of resources gives credibility to the information.
Another fact: Progesterone is necessary for both men and women.
Estrogen is known to cause cancers in both men and women.
1. Breast (men are also diagnosed with breast cancer)
2. Uterine
3. Cervical
4. Vaginal
5. Colon (this includes men as well!)
6. Ovarian
7. Prostrate (around age 50 men’s production of progesterone drops to very low levels)
Excess estrogen may cause Alzheimer’s, strokes, heart attacks, inflammation, fibroids, endometriosis, adhesion, fibrocystic disease, high blood pressure, asthma, migraines, gall bladder, and more.
Progesterone produces a cancer-protective gene known as p53, and it is also effective in rebuilding bone mass in osteoporosis patients.
Why do women need bio-identical progesterone?
Estrogen is known to cause cancers in both men and women.
1. Breast (men are also diagnosed with breast cancer)
2. Uterine
3. Cervical
4. Vaginal
5. Colon (this includes men as well!)
6. Ovarian
7. Prostrate (around age 50 men’s production of progesterone drops to very low levels)
Excess estrogen may cause Alzheimer’s, strokes, heart attacks, inflammation, fibroids, endometriosis, adhesion, fibrocystic disease, high blood pressure, asthma, migraines, gall bladder, and more.
Progesterone produces a cancer-protective gene known as p53, and it is also effective in rebuilding bone mass in osteoporosis patients.
Why do women need bio-identical progesterone?
• Women never stop making estrogen – it is probably the only hormone that never has to be replaced. It is made by fat cells, skin cells and adrenal glands.
• Women stop making progesterone, and because of this there is always a risk for developing breast, uterine, cervical cancer, etc. (progesterone production decreases during peri-menopause in which a woman may no longer ovulate every month)
• Every problem related to estrogen is caused by progesterone deficiency.
Symptoms of estrogen dominance/progesterone deficiency: depression, anxiousness, allergies, asthma, acne, PMS/mood swings, brain fog, infertility, fatigue (experienced late afternoon generally caused by high levels of insulin), morning sickness, migraines, gall bladder pain, cysts, polyps, hot flashes, fat gain, memory loss, etc.
Excerpt from page 161 of Platt’s book: “The Miracle of Bio-Identical Hormones”
“Interestingly, it is more important for men to receive bio-identical hormone placement than it is for women. The consequences of altered hormone levels in men may lead to coronary heart disease, Alzheimer’s, prostrate cancer, colon cancer, osteoporosis, depression, and other diseases.”
• Women stop making progesterone, and because of this there is always a risk for developing breast, uterine, cervical cancer, etc. (progesterone production decreases during peri-menopause in which a woman may no longer ovulate every month)
• Every problem related to estrogen is caused by progesterone deficiency.
Symptoms of estrogen dominance/progesterone deficiency: depression, anxiousness, allergies, asthma, acne, PMS/mood swings, brain fog, infertility, fatigue (experienced late afternoon generally caused by high levels of insulin), morning sickness, migraines, gall bladder pain, cysts, polyps, hot flashes, fat gain, memory loss, etc.
Excerpt from page 161 of Platt’s book: “The Miracle of Bio-Identical Hormones”
“Interestingly, it is more important for men to receive bio-identical hormone placement than it is for women. The consequences of altered hormone levels in men may lead to coronary heart disease, Alzheimer’s, prostrate cancer, colon cancer, osteoporosis, depression, and other diseases.”
I DO hope my brothers and father read my blog and come across this - but of course I plan to "beg" them to start using progesterone cream. My husband is all set to start, but I suggested he wait until age 50 when his progesterone levels notably drop. Meanwhile, his healthier lifestyle of eating whole foods, vitamin supplementation, and weaning off the statin drugs will go a long ways in contributing to his good health.
An excerpt from “Hormone Healthy” web-site:
Remember: Progesterone is the “mother of all hormones”. It is the raw material from which your body makes all other hormones. It is not simply a sex hormone as it is commonly assumed. If your body is overloaded with environmental estrogens and cannot produce enough progesterone to counteract and balance them – disease is the result.
Progesterone is not an “alternative remedy”, it’s an essential need. If your body cannot produce enough progesterone of its own you need to help it by giving it what it needs to protect your health.
It has been shown beyond a shadow of a doubt that supplementing with USP natural progesterone cream raises progesterone levels and corrects these unchecked estrogens providing relief to a wide range of health issues.
For the complete article visit: http://www.hormone-healthy.com/Benefits_of_Natural_Progesterone.htm
An excerpt from “Hormone Healthy” web-site:
Remember: Progesterone is the “mother of all hormones”. It is the raw material from which your body makes all other hormones. It is not simply a sex hormone as it is commonly assumed. If your body is overloaded with environmental estrogens and cannot produce enough progesterone to counteract and balance them – disease is the result.
Progesterone is not an “alternative remedy”, it’s an essential need. If your body cannot produce enough progesterone of its own you need to help it by giving it what it needs to protect your health.
It has been shown beyond a shadow of a doubt that supplementing with USP natural progesterone cream raises progesterone levels and corrects these unchecked estrogens providing relief to a wide range of health issues.
For the complete article visit: http://www.hormone-healthy.com/Benefits_of_Natural_Progesterone.htm
Per Dr. Michael Platt, bio-identical progesterone (not to be confused with synthetic progestin) is the only hormone that is harmless, yet has many, many benefits. All other hormone supplements, such as DHEA, estrogen, testosterone, etc. should be monitored closely.
I hope what I provide today helps you in some way, and perhaps spurs you to think outside the box. I encourage you to share books by Platt and Lee with your doctor, and help them continue their education beyond that which the drug companies teach them. If bio-identical hormones interest you and your doctor is close-minded, there are doctors out there who are willing to listen and even some who use natural hormones in their practice. The Women in Balance web-site, linked in the sidebar at right, has a search engine in which you can type in your zip code and find a doctor near you who incorporates bio-identical hormones into their practice. The Madison area is blessed with several. Follow this link to an excellent article that you could take along with you on your next visit to your primary care provider.
To your health!
Rita S.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Summer Vegetable Quinoa
I don't know about your garden, but the summer squashes are starting to become abundant! It's time to come up with new ways to use zuchinni! (LOL) The other day I added it into a salsa I make, and changed my usual fare up with what I had on hand. I shall post that recipe as well.
Quinoa is a high protein substitute for rice, with a wonderful nutty flavor. There is some debate on whether or not it is a true grain. Paleo enthusiasts would probably say it is, I am not sure. Either way, our kids have really come to love quinoa. Cooking it with organic chicken stock vs. water, I think it adds more flavor. Today's recipe would be an excellent side dish to grilled rib-eye steaks patted down with coarse sea salt. The sea salt falls off when the steaks are turned - I saw the grilling master, Steve Reichlin, do this on television this morning in one of his "primal grill" episodes. It might be worth getting some coarse sea salt, thick rib-eyes and giving it a try! No matter the steak, or any type of meat - this side dish of quinoa packed with summer flavor is sure to be a hit!
Summer Vegetable Quinoa2 cups quinoa
4 cups organic chicken stock
¼ sun dried tomatoes (not oil packed)
½ c. boiling water
½ c. shredded zuchinni
½ c. shredded yellow summer squash
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 c. chopped green onions ( ½ c. chives may be substituted)
Salt to taste
Pinch of curry powder (optional)
Directions:1. Toast the quinoa in deep skillet on medium high for one minute, stirring until light brown. Stir in curry to distribute throughout.
2. Add chicken stock and bring to boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes. If stock has boiled away add a little more. Cook until quinoa has absorbed liquid, approximately 25 minutes total.
3. Soak sun dried tomatoes in boiling water for 15 minutes. Drain in colander and set over bowl to reserve liquid. Allow to cool and chop tomoatoes.
4. Mix together tomatoes, shredded zuchinni and yellow squash, diced red pepper and green onions/or chives in small skillet over low heat until most of the liquid is absorbed/evaporated.
5. Add into quinoa skillet and stir until all flavors are well mixed. Taste and add sea salt if needed. Serve.
There are plenty of vegetables in this dish, but a side of grilled asparagus might be nice, or garlic infused baked beets - which is another recipe I plan to share soon! Enjoy your summer produce!
To your health!
Rita S.
Quinoa is a high protein substitute for rice, with a wonderful nutty flavor. There is some debate on whether or not it is a true grain. Paleo enthusiasts would probably say it is, I am not sure. Either way, our kids have really come to love quinoa. Cooking it with organic chicken stock vs. water, I think it adds more flavor. Today's recipe would be an excellent side dish to grilled rib-eye steaks patted down with coarse sea salt. The sea salt falls off when the steaks are turned - I saw the grilling master, Steve Reichlin, do this on television this morning in one of his "primal grill" episodes. It might be worth getting some coarse sea salt, thick rib-eyes and giving it a try! No matter the steak, or any type of meat - this side dish of quinoa packed with summer flavor is sure to be a hit!
Summer Vegetable Quinoa2 cups quinoa
4 cups organic chicken stock
¼ sun dried tomatoes (not oil packed)
½ c. boiling water
½ c. shredded zuchinni
½ c. shredded yellow summer squash
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 c. chopped green onions ( ½ c. chives may be substituted)
Salt to taste
Pinch of curry powder (optional)
Directions:1. Toast the quinoa in deep skillet on medium high for one minute, stirring until light brown. Stir in curry to distribute throughout.
2. Add chicken stock and bring to boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes. If stock has boiled away add a little more. Cook until quinoa has absorbed liquid, approximately 25 minutes total.
3. Soak sun dried tomatoes in boiling water for 15 minutes. Drain in colander and set over bowl to reserve liquid. Allow to cool and chop tomoatoes.
4. Mix together tomatoes, shredded zuchinni and yellow squash, diced red pepper and green onions/or chives in small skillet over low heat until most of the liquid is absorbed/evaporated.
5. Add into quinoa skillet and stir until all flavors are well mixed. Taste and add sea salt if needed. Serve.
There are plenty of vegetables in this dish, but a side of grilled asparagus might be nice, or garlic infused baked beets - which is another recipe I plan to share soon! Enjoy your summer produce!
To your health!
Rita S.
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