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Showing posts with label raw foodist. Show all posts
Showing posts with label raw foodist. Show all posts

Friday, September 4, 2015

It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!

No, this isn't a Blog about the Peanuts Halloween special; although, I am looking forward to watching that, on Halloween (tradition!). But, it is officially pumpkin season, here in the United States, and I'm excited!!

I love Charlie Brown...I love Fall....and I love pumpkins!! Pumpkins are amazing; they're nutritious, delicious and totally versatile!

Here's a brief run-down of just how awesome pumpkins are...

Check out all these amazing benefits!!

Did you see that?? So much goodness to improve your health! And, I love fact sheets...especially the ones that come with recipes; I can't wait to try that smoothie recipe!! LOL!

Some other things I've learned about the wonder that is a pumpkin are as follows:


  • Eating pumpkins reduces the risk of gastric, breast, lung and colorectal cancer, regardless of family history.
  • Eating pumpkins reduces breast cancer risk, in both pre-menopausal and post-menopausal women.
  • Cucurbitacin E, a compound found in pumpkins, has been shown to inhibit triple-negative breast cancer metastasis in the lab, by suppressing cell migration and invasion.
  • Pumpkins contain hypoglycemic substances that may improve diabetes.
  • Intake of orange and yellow vegetables (like pumpkins) may also be protective against prostate cancer and non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma.

I, personally, love eating pumpkins/pumpkin seeds...and I totally wish they had a longer harvesting season. I made sure to collect a few recipes, recently, so I'll have plenty of variety when it comes time to grub on some yumminess!!

Here, let me share them with you:


Pumpkin Pancakes - Chocolate Covered Katie
Raw Vegan Pumpkin Pie - This Rawsome Vegan Life
Nutty Pumpkin Chip Cookies - Happy Healthy Life
Raw Pumpkin Spice Granola - Fragrant Vanilla Cake
Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream - A Calculated Whisk
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts - My Whole Food Life


My goodness....I think I've made myself hungry!! LOL! Have a blessed day, everyone...and don't forget to partake in some pumpkin goodness this Fall!!

FYI - Try to buy organic pumpkins, if you can!


Saturday, February 14, 2015

Love is in the air!!

Happy Valentine's Day, my loves! I hope you're all having a stellar day, today! You mean so much to me, and I appreciate that you're part of my life. You make this journey of mine worth living!!

Love on that special someone a little extra, today. My focus will be on my friends, my family, and you....because if I focus on the one person I don't have in my life, I won't enjoy this day at all. The end of this month marks the anniversary of the day my late husband killed himself; and I just don't want to deal with the pain my heart is trying to feel.

So, my goal is to focus on the joy of the day....and love on all of you.

This journey I've been on has been a roller coaster of ups and downs; I must admit, I prefer the ups. But who wouldn't....right?? A significant up has been getting to know all of you. I've grown fond of all of you, and look forward to sharing more of my ups (and downs) with you, as the years progress.

It's hard to believe it's been almost three years since I was diagnosed. I'm still looking forward to being cancer free for five years; but I have to stay in remission for that day to come. I'll keep you posted on how that develops!

And now, for some updates....

Christmas and New Years were wonderful! I spent almost an entire month at my youngest daughter's house. My granddaughter, Alice, can almost say her name! She says something that sounds more like "Ally", but it's close enough! LOL!

The last time I had been there (for her birthday week), she wasn't walking yet; but as soon as I got there, I watched her toddle across the living room, and was overcome. The only words that came out of my mouth were, "Oh my gosh!" and I almost cried. She's so precious!

Alice is really smart, too. She still doesn't talk, although she knows how; her Daddy says he was the same way, as a baby. He didn't start using words until he was around 2-3 years old. To be honest, Alice doesn't need to use words; when she communicates, there's no mistaking what she's saying. If you can't tell how she feels, by the look on her face, she's not shy about yelling at you. I corrected her a few times, and the look on her face said enough. As with all toddlers, she's not fond of the word "no".

And if she wants something from you, she opens one hand and points to it with the other, repetitively....until she gets what she's after. She's very generous, too; she likes to share her things with those around her, and she enjoys feeding Mommy, when it's mealtime. I was delighted, when she offered to feed me! Playing at the park was fun, too. I couldn't run around with her, but I sure got a ton of photos while she ran around with Mommy and Daddy. LOL!

I took this photo while we were at the park. My Little Angel is growing up!!


Good news!! I finally moved to Knoxville. I signed my lease before going to my youngest daughter's house; and have been officially occupying my apartment, since mid-January.  I must admit, the kitchen is the smallest one I've ever been in, but I adore it! The apartment even comes with emergency call switches, which I love. And the fire alarm works......really well! It's gone off (spontaneously) in the middle of the night, a couple times. LOL!

I've met some of my neighbors; they seem like decent folks. My neighbor across the hall is my hero.....my living room light blew out, and he changed it for me (being short sucks). And I had assumed I was the youngest one here....but have since met a few other disabled people who are younger than me.
I haven't been around town all that much, because my lower back and hips don't appreciate the fact that there are no flat sidewalks (or parking lots); I'm either walking uphill or downhill....and both hurt. The stronger I get, the easier it'll become; I just need to be patient with myself, while I adjust. I'm looking forward to discovering the wonder that is Knoxville! 

I have to be honest, I had mixed feelings about being out on my own. It's just me now, so I'm excited about the idea of being able to do things and go places, without worrying about someone else's schedule. But at the same time.....it's just me, now. I'm living alone for the first time in my life; and that's a bit scary. It's not as bad as I thought it would be, so I'm relaxing a bit more about it.

This is the smallest kitchen I've ever had, but it's a perfect size for me!!

















I'm sitting in the recliner...not a bad size for a living room!!

Everything about this place is ADA approved!!












Can't wait to add some decor...my bedroom looks empty! LOL!

Another update for you....I have an Instagram account; if you have one too, come on and follow me! I've been whipping up some good stuff in my kitchen, so I figured it was time to branch out. You can also follow me on Twitter and Facebook.

 Here's one of the recipes I've made; I adapted it a bit. The original recipe is called Morning Glory Juice; but, I made it a smoothie, because my juicer needs to be replaced. I love my Ninja!! This is the one I use.




10 strawberries
3 carrots
1 banana (not in the original recipe)
1 grapefruit (peeled)
1/2 a lemon (peeled)
2 tsp of powdered ginger (the original recipe calls for fresh ginger)

Juice them, or blend them like I did; I encourage you to try it! I shredded the carrots before blending them; it made it easier. And it is a bit pulpy (I didn't strain it). I'm also thinking about adding some raw honey next time, because it was a little tart for my taste. But it was amazing!!

 
Well, I'm all out of updates.....for now. Have a spectacular day, my loves! God bless you!!


Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Oh, Happy Day!!

Oh my gosh! Hey, guys.....I've got stellar news!!

Yesterday, my Oncologist told me that the results from Thursday’s PET scan (last Thursday) came back NEGATIVE!!! IT’S GONE!!! Seems that my Survival Story has reached a new level! I’m so excited... LOL!!

I can’t stop smiling, either! LOL!! And, although I won the battle...the war is not over. I have to keep in mind that I need to stay two steps ahead of this, to reduce the risk of recurrence. Lots of healthy eating, prayer, positive thoughts, and staying joyful!!

Care to join me, in a Happy Dance?? Let’s go!! LOL!





By the way...you can also find me on these social media sites; please, follow me on...

Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest





And have a blessed day!! oxoxox


Friday, November 1, 2013

Home Sweet Home

Yes, that’s right…I’m finally home, again; I've been home for a week, now!! Thank God!!

And, boy, do I have a blog for you, today!

After surgery, I rehabbed at a place called Pebble Creek, in Akron; it’s only about a 20 minute drive from my sister’s house. I wanted to go back to Edwin Shaw, which is where I rehabbed, last year; but, my insurance company wouldn't cover it. They gave me a ton of grief over a few things, while I was recovering from surgery! I’m seriously considering switching insurance companies (on the Medicaid program, you have the luxury of switching insurance companies)!!

While I was at Pebble Creek, I developed a few health concerns…I spent the better part of those 2 months throwing everything up, having hot flashes, and going through major panic attacks; all of which the house doctor medicated me for, without running any tests to find out why I was experiencing these issues. I kept telling everyone I've never had these issues, before, and it wasn't what it looked like, but (of course) no one would listen. I've never experienced anything like that, before, so I knew something was a bit off…but, since no one would listen to me, nothing was done about it.

I also came down with pneumonia, while I was at Pebble Creek…pneumonia!!! I've never, in all my 40+ years, have ever had to deal with pneumonia; I was only in the hospital for that, for a week, but still!!! And, I’m still recovering from it, too…my lungs aren't quite as strong, now, as they were, before; my sister said the best respiratory therapy for me would be to sing. And, since I like music so much, it’ll be the most fun way to build my lungs back up, too! LOL!!

Now that I’m back home, I've been set up with a Nurse, a Physical Therapist, and an Occupational Therapist, for home care. And, I've got a walker, for around the house; and a wheelchair for shopping, and errands. Every once in a while, I dare the devil and walk a short distance without my walker, but that’s incredibly difficult to do, at this time! My PT says we’re going to have to work a lot on building strength in my legs, so I’m not leaning on my walker so much, when I use it.

Hopefully, I won’t need to use the walker, or the wheelchair, for much longer!

My appetite is getting better, too…slowly. The food at Pebble Creek was atrocious!!  Every meal they made for us was cooked; they hardly gave us any fresh fruits and veggies, at all! And it was all cooked WAY too much…tasteless, soggy, and inedible. It’s no wonder I spent all that time throwing up!

My sister’s been feeding me lots of raw foods (fresh fruits and veggies), and I have eaten a few cooked things; although, the cooked things at home are still making my stomach turn, from time to time. My sister says it’s because my brain has been trained to think that cooked food is gross, because of the two months I spent throwing up at Pebble Creek. I’ll reprogram it, soon!

Oh, and my insurance company! Not only would they not pay for MY choice of rehab facility, they made a decision to discontinue covering my pain medications, after I got back from having pneumonia. See…I was at Pebble Creek, then went to the hospital with pneumonia, then I went back to Pebble Creek. When I got back, my insurance company refused to cover most of my medications; the in-house doctor fought hard for me, too…he convinced them that I NEEDED those medications, and they gave in. Can you blame me for wanting to switch companies??

The plus side of the time I spent at Pebble Creek, is that because I spent all that time throwing up, I actually lost 20 lbs! Not that I would've wanted to lose weight that way, but I can work with it!! LOL!!

Now that I've been home, for a week, I’m slowly getting stronger in a lot of areas; the carpet is difficult to walk on, with my walker, but that’s helping me build up my strength. And, last night, I actually slept in my own bed!! I've been “living in” the recliner, since coming home, because my back still isn't too keen on laying down. But, I positioned my bed so that the head was elevated a little, and slept the whole night! I wasn't going to bother with it, but God spoke to my heart, and encouraged me to try…I’m glad I listened!! LOL!!

And, I've begun another round of chemo…yesterday was my first dose; this time I’m being given Ixempra. I don’t know how long I’ll be doing this round, or what it’s going to do to me, but I should be hearing my doctor tell me “It’s gone!”, early next year!! I’m excited about that!!

Not too thrilled to be doing this, again...but it beats the heck out of dying!!


I also told my Oncologist I was going to wait to move to Knoxville, TN because I wanted to be cancer free when I get down there; that way my new medical team will only have to help me stay healthy, rather than help me fight the disease. He said he liked that idea! Of course, the actual timing of my move is all up to God…I’ll go, when HE says it’s time.


Well, I do hope you have a fantastic day, today! Thanks for keeping up with me! God bless you! oxoxox


Monday, May 20, 2013

Survival Takes a Detour


Man, am I whooped!! As I write this, I’m listening to Pandora Radio…Eye of the Tiger is playing; “just a man and his will to survive”, eh?? Survival isn't always about being the fittest one...sometimes it's about just being determined.

Detours!! LOL!

1 Corinthians 6:12

Since my teeth have made it nearly impossible to eat according to my raw lifestyle, I've had to scale back and begin eating cooked foods (most are processed), again, because they’re easier for me to chew, without hurting myself. Except….I am hurting myself!

My back is reminding me of what I put myself through by getting sick, in the first place; I can’t move around, anywhere, without feeling pain! In addition, I’m super tired, and always hungry, now! Feels like old times…and I hate it; I've had a headache, all day!! I can’t wait to get my bad teeth removed and replaced with partials, so I can get back to eating REAL and RAW, again!! I liked the way I felt, then…I don’t like how I feel, now!

I believe that God never puts us through anything we can’t handle…but this test is difficult!! I feel like I’m letting Him down, but I’m sure He understands what I’m going through. I keep apologizing, daily, for what I’m doing that He doesn't approve of; and for Him to speed up time, so I can get back on track, with His plan! Not too fond of this detour!! I’m not giving up on myself…but I know going back to cooked and processed is not a good thing.

I’m considering juicing, or making smoothies, from raw fruits and veggies…just to re-incorporate them back into my daily routine. Do you think that’s a good idea? I've got to do something! Feeling this sluggish is NOT NICE!!

Anyone have any other ideas? What do you think of my juicing, or doing fruit/veggie smoothies? Post your ideas, or feedback, in the Comments section!

And, God bless! oxoxox


Sunday, April 7, 2013

A Brief Look at Vitamin K


I was reading about Vitamin K, this morning, and found some interesting information about its benefits. Did you know Vitamin K aids in blood clotting? Surgeons often give Vitamin K to their patients, before surgery, to prevent excessive bleeding…I wonder if my surgeon did that with me?

Vitamin K also assists in the transportation of calcium, throughout our bodies; it may aid in overall bone health, and in reducing bone fractures, as well. And, it also prevents hardening of the arteries. So, it’s definitely beneficial for those who have a family history of osteoporosis, or heart disease.

I've read that recent studies have shown, Vitamin K may also be anti-cancer…they say it has preventative and treatment benefits! Which makes sense, since most veggies are alkaline forming. I wrote a blog about that, too...you can read it, here.

Vitamin K isn't just one vitamin…it’s a group of three; I didn't know that, so this was my something new for today. This group consists of K1 (phytonadione, phylloquinone, phytonactone), K2 (menaquinones), formed by natural bacteria present in intestines, and K3 (menadione).

K1 is a fat soluble vitamin, like A, E and D; you can have a diet rich in Vitamin K, by eating your greens! It can also be found in a few other foods, as well…here’s a small list…

Parsley
Kale (cooked)
Spinach (cooked)
Brussels sprouts
Swiss chard (cooked)
Green beans
Asparagus
Broccoli
Kale (cooked)
Mustard greens (cooked)
Turnip greens (cooked)
Collard greens (cooked)
Thyme (fresh)
Romaine lettuce
Sage (fresh)
Oregano (fresh)
Basil (fresh)
Cabbage
Celery
Sea vegetables
Cucumber
Leeks
Cauliflower
Tomatoes
Blueberries
Fermented foods


Unless otherwise indicated (cooked), all of these fruits and veggies should be eaten raw, to get the most Vitamin K out of them. And, fresh herbs are always better than dried!

Come to think of it, the folks at Whole Foods have a rather comprehensive article on Vitamin K, if you’d like to learn more. They also have a chart, in this article, listing all of the foods that are “excellent”, “very good” and “good” sources of Vitamin K. Personally, I only noticed a few things on that list that I wouldn't eat (soy and miso are off my list; Brussels sprouts…yuk!)

So eat well, stay well…and God bless! oxoxox

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

The Ketogenic Diet - What I've Learned

Our body's run on glucose, like a vehicle runs on gasoline; and our "tanks" have a 24-hour supply of glucose, at the ready; so, if you don't eat carbs on a regular basis, you'll run out of fuel...right?

Not necessarily! I've been researching this nutritional therapy plan, called The Ketogenic Diet, that teaches how to switch from "regular gas" to "diesel" (if you will) and still function normally, throughout the day. The Ketogenic Diet forces your body to burn fat as your primary fuel source, rather than glucose, because it's a low carb, high fat, moderate protein eating plan.

The Ketogenic Diet Pyramid


It's been said that this lifestyle plan can cure epilepsy, as well as cancer, and a host of other health issues. About 2/3 of our brain is composed of fat...specifically, fatty acids; so, the more fats, and fatty acids, you have in your diet, the better your brain will function.

As far as being the cure for cancer, it stands to reason...sugar feeds cancer cells. Carbs break down into sugars, in our bodies; so, if you limit the amount of carbs you eat, you will starve the disease. This eating plan can also help you lose weight! Simple, right?

Not if you're a caboholic, like me!! LOL! The Mayo Clinic says that a low carb diet would allow for 50g - 150g of carbs, per day. My favorite multi-grain pasta is 38g all by itself!! However, I'm planning on putting this lifestyle change to the test; incorporating what I've learned about alkalizing foods, and this eating plan, I should be able to stay cancer free! And I can't wait to be a size 10, again!! LOL!

Here's how the Ketogenic Diet works...

Ketones are a substance that your body makes, when it uses fat as your primary source of energy, rather than glucose. If you are diabetic, and choose this lifestyle, please make sure to discuss this with your doctor...too many ketones in your body could be dangerous!

Remember, back in the day, when everyone said a reduced fat diet was healthier for us?? They grouped all fats in the "dangerous" category...whether they were good fats, or bad fats. I did a Blog about the difference between fats. Not all fats are bad for you! The good ones do a lot of beneficial things to your body; the "bad" fats do, too, as a matter of fact!

A high fat diet is said to be very healthy for you, when you keep the carbs at bay. A diet high in clean saturated fats, and low in carbohydrates actually raises your good cholesterol and lowers your triglycerides, according to the Ketogenic Diet Resource page. This site lists a great deal of benefits from this particular lifestyle plan! It also has menu plans!

Now why would the powers that be tell us that all fats are bad, and we should limit our fat intake, when fats actually do a lot of good to the human condition?? Two words....Big Pharma. Whenever there's a buzz about this and that medical condition, no one stops to figure out why that medical condition exists...they just create a pill to help us "manage" those conditions. And, they even have pills to combat the side effects of the disease management drugs!! It's all about money, folks!! Believe it or not, most of the diseases and conditions we suffer from are metabolic (they happened because we don't eat properly!)

Your fats should come from high quality sources...regardless of whether it's a saturated fat, or a "good" fat. Quality is key! Eat grass-fed animal products (meat & dairy), make sure your pork products are uncured (no nitrites or nitrates), eat full fat dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt, etc). Consume LOTS of organic, non-GMO (non-starchy) veggies, and limit the amount of fruits, grains, cereals, breads, etc. that you eat.

If you're suffering from insulin resistance, the Ketogenic Diet just might be the answer to your prayers, as well!

I'm currently trying to figure out how to navigate the low carb part of this eating plan (notice I don't call it a "diet"?). Fruits are carbs; they're also anti-estrogenic (most of them). So, I'm thinking...in terms of the "low carb" part of this, I'll eat fruits as my 50g - 150g of carbs per day....cutting out rice, starchy veggies, and all grains (or maybe replacing a fruit with one of them, from time to time). I'm going to have to make sure that whatever I use in place of a piece of fruit, will be high quality, though...no corn syrup, or processed grains.

It's time to take back our lives, reverse these health issues we're being taught to manage; and live healthy, and drug free, once again!!


Saturday, March 9, 2013

My New Best Friend - Dr. David Brownstein

Here it is, folks...the book review I promised!

I recently signed up for Dr. David Brownstein's Newsletters; I should be getting another one, soon. With my "membership", I received a book called "The Guide to Healthy Eating", authored by him; he's authored 10 books, and I'm planning on owning all of them! LOL!

Within this particular book, you will learn everything you need to know about carbs, fats & oils, salt, making children's favorite foods more healthy for them, and what foods to avoid eating (and why), and so much more! There's even a section of the book devoted to recipes...I can't wait to try them!! In the back, there is a tip section...healthy eating when dining out, food prep tips, meal planning, etc. There are also two appendices....a glycemic index, and a grocery shopping check-list.

I highly recommend purchasing this book; it is a comprehensive guide to put you on the right track toward a healthier life!






Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Protein is Protein...Right??

Wrong! There are some major differences between animal-based proteins and plant-based proteins.


Proteins become amino acids, during the digestion process; amino acids are the building blocks of the body. The body also uses protein to make enzymes, hormones, and other body processes. The amino acids that can't be manufactured by our bodies are called essential amino acids. There are nine essential amino acids, and 12 which are manufactured by the body, itself. Here's where the differences come into play.

A complete protein is a food that contains a significant amount of all nine essential amino acids. All animal-based proteins are complete proteins...most plant-based proteins are not. There are only a hand-full of plant proteins that are considered complete.

Soy has long been considered the highest quality complete protein in the vegetable kingdom. When soy was first touted as "the" plant-based alternative to animal protein, I fell for it hook, line and sinker. I became a soy foods fanatic! Soy milk and tofu were staples, in my house...my kids didn't like the tofu, but they devoured the milk! I went out of my way to replace animal proteins with soy, and other plant-based proteins, because the powers that be said it was better for our health.

I was diagnosed with breast cancer, last year. And I'm terrified that my children (2 girls and a boy) will develop breast cancer, later on in life, because I bombarded their bodies with so much soy...I am a dethroned convenience food queen! With all the new information out about how bad convenience foods are for us, and how practically everything boxed, packaged, bottled or canned has soy in it...this Mommy is worried for her children!

Complete proteins, in the plant kingdom are found in other sources...spirulina, hemp seed, amaranth, buckwheat, and quinoa. I will never promote soy as a reliable source of ANY nutrient! Trust me!



My new best friend, Dr. David Brownstein, says soy also contains enzyme inhibitors that stop our bodies from absorbing a lot of minerals, like calcium, magnesium, zinc, molybdenum, manganese and iron. And, large amounts of refined soy (convenience foods) can cause deficiencies in Vitamins B12, D, E, and K. This information can be found in his book, "The Guide to Healthy Eating" (book review coming soon!)

When eating foods that are incomplete proteins (most plant-based proteins), it's a good idea to make sure you eat complimentary proteins, to achieve a complete protein source. You don't have to combine them in the same meal, just make sure you've eaten plenty of complimentary proteins, by the end of the day.

I've plugged myself as being a former omnivore, suggesting that I have become a vegetarian...when, in fact, I still eat meat, from time to time. I'm what's commonly known as a "flexitarian"; a vegetarian who still eats meat, on occasion. I've also learned that animals who are common herbivores will eat meat, when they need to; so, I'm ok with being a vegetarian who eats meat, once in a while! LOL!

Eating meat is the only way to ensure that the body gets an adequate amount of B12...it's not found in any plant food, unless it's been fortified with it. Vitamin B12 is a vital nutrient, in that it helps produce DNA in our bodies, helps reduce the risk of pernicious anemia, helps maintain energy levels, reduces the risk of heart disease, and so much more!

With that being said, I would also not advise become a strict vegan...B12 supplements are great; but by not eating meat at least once in a while, you will be missing out on so many other nutrients that are only found in animal flesh and animal products (milk, eggs, honey, etc).

So, for an adequate amount of protein (and other nutrients) in your diet, it is always a good idea to eat meat, or animal products; even if it's only once in a while!

Thanks for stopping by, and have a blessed day!! oxoxox


Thursday, February 28, 2013

My New Best Friend - Dr David Brownstein

Man, have I had an interesting day....too busy for me, time to deflate a little!

Here are a couple more answered questions, from the back of Dr. Brownstein's Newsletters...again, not revealing the asker's identity....just sharing their concern, and his answer; enjoy!!

~~~~~~~~

Q: I have Type 2 diabetes and want to know if it can be reversed naturally. Do you have any advice?

A: This type of diabetes is caused by a confluence of factors including obesity, inactivity eating a poor diet, and nutritional deficiencies.

I often refer to Type 2 diabetes as a "lifestyle" illness, because the great majority of patients suffering from it are struggling due to nothing more than poor lifestyle choices.

Eating a poor diet is the main reason we are seeing such a rise in Type 2 diabetes. The standard American diet contains way too much refined sugar, flour, salt and oils, and not enough nutrient-dense food.

These refined foods lack basic nutrients and contain toxic byproducts from their manufacturing processes.

This picture was added by me, guys. But, you get the idea, right?
This combination of nutrient imbalances, along with toxic overload, is a perfect recipe for developing Type 2 diabetes.

How can you avoid or overcome diabetes? First, eat a healthy diet full of unrefined food. Avoid all sources of refined sugar and fructose, as well as other refined products. Finally, daily exercise can help the insulin receptors restore their sensitivity.

My experience has clearly shown a holistic approach can help a person beat Type 2 diabetes. More information can be found in "The Guide to Healthy Eating" (I have this book...it's amazing!!)


Q:  My 17-year-old daughter has been on birth control for one year. What is your opinion of the risks of having her on them at such a young age?

A: Birth control pills contain synthetic forms of progesterone and estrogen in order to inhibit ovulation and implantation.

Unfortunately, birth control pills are associated with a host of issues, including problems with the thyroid gland, blood clots, heart attacks, elevated blood pressure, and increased risk of cancer of the cervix and liver.

Some studies have even shown an increased risk of breast cancer in women who took birth control pills. (I was on birth control pills for a while)

Regulating menses can often be accomplished by cleaning up the diet and avoiding allergenic foods. Food allergy testing can be done through blood tests or via an acupressure technique called NAET (Namburipad's Allergy Elimination Techniques).

Finally, heavy menstrual bleeding can usually be controlled by ensuring adequate thyroid function and/or supplementing with vitamin A. High doses of vitamin A (10,000 to 100,000 IU per day) can slow down heavy bleeding in the majority of women.

One note of caution: Vitamin A should be prescribed by a knowledgeable healthcare provider, as high doses can cause adverse effects.

Women who are pregnant should not take high doses of Vitamin A.

~~~~~~~~

The emphatic moments, in both questions (in italics), are my own interruptions; as is the caption, under the photo I shared.

The first Q&A is a subject near and dear to my heart, because both of my parents are diabetic (Type 2) and my Dad passed away when I was 13 years old, from complications of the disease. He spent his life demanding the right to eat as he pleased, and was very stubborn when it came to following doctor's orders.

My mother developed Type 2 diabetes later in life, and she's been dealing with it a little more maturely than my Dad did! LOL!

I, unfortunately, developed my Dad's eating habits; the end result is dealing with Stage 4 Breast Cancer, in my 40s. However, the more I learn, the better equipped I am to overcome this disease, and hopefully add some years that would have otherwise been stolen from me.

Here's to a healthy life!! Have a blessed day! oxoxox


Wednesday, February 27, 2013

My New Best Friend - Dr David Browstein

As promised, I am back! Hey, today's my birthday, so I'm gonna take it easy, today.....hope ya don't mind! LOL!



While I was researching Dr. David Brownstein, reading his Newsletters, etc. I noticed he did a Q&A on the backs of all his Newsletters...so, I decided to share a couple of those, today! I'm not going to tell you who asked the questions, for privacy sake; I'll just post the questions, and the Dr's answers.

~~~~~~~~

Q: When I take my blood pressure at home, it ranges from 116/66 to 122/77. But, at my doctor's office, it went up to 150/70. Do you think I need medication?

A: Just because your blood pressure is elevated in a doctor's office does not mean that you have high blood pressure.

The American Heart Association says that normal blood pressure is a reading of 120 mmHg for systolic (pressure on the vessels while the heart is beating) and 80 mmHg for diastolic (pressure on the vessels while the heart is relaxed).

Prehypertension is classified as a blood pressure reading in the range of 120-139/80-89 mmHg. High blood pressure (hypertension) is defined as a reading higher than 140/90 mmHg. I can sum up these numbers in one word: rubbish.

If we followed the American Heart Association's recommendations, a huge percentage of Americans over the age of 40 would be placed on medications that they do not need.

In cases like this, where blood pressure readings are widely different between home and the doctor's office, I suggest that people have their home blood pressure machines calibrated at the doctor's office. Once your sure of the readings, take daily blood pressure measurements at home.

This phenomenon is often called "white coat hypertension." White coat hypertension does not necessarily require medication. I have many patients who bring me blood pressure readings from their home machines instead of, or in addition to, having the test performed in my office.

Finally, there are many other tests, such as electrocardiogram (EKG) and heart ultrasound that can also ascertain if blood pressure is damaging the heart.


Q: I was diagnosed with thyroid nodules approximately one year ago. Happily, the nodules were found to be benign. Should thyroid nodules be treated or simply followed to ensure they are not cancerous?

A: Nodules on the thyroid, breast, ovaries, uterus or prostate are not normal. When the architecture of the glands becomes damaged, nodules and cysts start to form. If the condition worsens, it can lead to cancer.

One cause of cysts and nodules in glandular tissue is iodine deficiency. I would suggest that you have your iodine checked by a healthcare provider knowledgeable about iodine levels.

If your levels are low, iodine supplementation may help this condition. Also, avoiding toxic halogens such as fluoride and bromine helps.

I have seen many patients cure nodules and cysts in their glandular tissue, including the thyroid and breasts.

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I may post a couple more questions and their answers, later today, but I think two is good enough, for now! LOL!!

Dr. Brownstein has an entire Newsletter devoted to the health benefits of iodine; and he's written a book on the subject, called "Iodine: Why You Need IT, Why You Can't Live Without IT". I'm totally interested in reading that book, now that I've read the Newsletter!

Well, I'm going to go enjoy my birthday...stop by my Facebook page (The Savvy Survivor), if you can! I'm throwing a birthday party, and I've invited everyone to post their favorite recipe that contains anti-estrogenic foods in them.

Here's a list of those foods....


Barley Grass
Broccoli
Cabbage
Cauliflower
Garlic
Kale
Kohlrabi
Onions
Sweet Potatoes
Watercress
Wheat Grass
Apricot
Avocado
Banana (high glycemic)
Berries
Blackberries
Cantaloupe
Coconut, fresh
Currants
Figs, dried
Grapes
Grapefruit
Honeydew Melon
Lemon
Lime
Muskmelons
Nectarine
Orange
Peach
Pear
Pineapple
Raisins
Raspberries
Rhubarb
Strawberries
Tangerine
Tropical Fruits
Umeboshi Plums
Watermelon
Almonds
Chestnuts
Millet
Herbs (all)
Corn
Winter Squash
Blueberries
Cranberries
Currants
Plums
Prunes
Flour, white
Rice (white)
Butter (grass fed animal)
Cheese (grass fed animal)
Cashews
Legumes (not soy/edamame)
Pecans
Walnuts
Beef (grass fed)
Lamb (grass fed)
Tuna
Veal (grass fed)
Venison (grass fed)
Wine (red wine)
Coffee



I hope to see you at my Facebook party...don't forget to "Like" my page!! Have a blessed day! oxoxox