A happy liver is a happy body =) I just can't say that enough!!! It is no secret that it is our biggest internal organ....so why does it seem that so many people don't understand it's importance?? Sheesh....We see this organ directly related to the well being of all body systems!!!It is no surprise then that nutrients supportive of this organ are indeed also supportive of bowel health. When designing your cleanse you will notice many of these nutrients pop up.
When we look at bowel function, we have to understand what is "normal" and what is a sign of potential problems. How do we keep this system running smoothly? To begin with,fiber is absolutely essential. Body movement (exercise) is vital as well. Obviously, water consumption plays a huge role in maintaining bowel function.
There are also several botanicals that can be utilized to restore bowel function. Some botanicals have a laxative effect and can aid in cleansing the system when it is bogged down. (aloe,and licorice root for example) Bulking agents (psyllium husks, linseeds, and high fiber foods for example) can be useful on a regular basis to keep peristalsis running at a regular pace. The brain receives chemical signals based on the "mass" moving through the intestines. It seems the bulking agents give the mass, without being heavy and difficult to move. (provided adequate water)Bulking agents also clean away build up in the digestive tract. Probiotics play a role in breaking down wastes, and aiding elimination.
The biggest problem of suboptimal bowel function is really a matter of absorption.
The digestive process begins in the mouth. We chew, enzymes begin to break down the food as does the mechanical act of chewing. At the stomach we are dependent upon the stomach acid to further break down our food. As the broken down particles travel through the intestines there is a series of chemical reactions taking place. As the body breaks down the particles,they produce usable substances. The usable pieces are absorbed and the rest goes on to be eliminated. If the mechanical process is stalled, or slowed, (peristalsis) then there can become a sludge buildup on the intestinal walls. (much like plaque in the arteries.) If this sludge remains, the amount of space for the chemical breakdown and absorption is significantly reduced. We then begin to see the results of deficiency. The same is true of laxative abuse or chronic diarrhea. This situation still does not allow for proper absorption or manufacturing of essential nutrients. The particles simply move through too quickly. This is why regularity is such a concern. Knowing that the body is moving wastes at a good constant rate is a great sign of bowel health.
Well CRAP...yeah, I made the pun....The body has great system laid out for elimination. The problem is, most people run around constantly throwin' a monkey wrench into it. There are several causes for elimination problems and just as many ways they can manifest. Let's explore a few....
1 Constipation....Though dehydration is NOT the only cause of constipation, many people experience firm to "boulder like" bowel movements. With so many causes for the dehydration in the average lifestyle, most people are at risk for at LEAST firm and "lumpy" stool. Stool should be formed but soft.
2 Excessive gas...I have a children's book called "The Gas We Pass...The Story of Farts". The average person passes gas some 14 times a day!!! (I found that to be a bit high, but I was like a rat....would likely blow up before tooting...I am cured now...lol.) ANYWAY..bloating and excessive gas is NOT reflective of a smooth running system.
3 Infrequent/ irregular bowel movements....One bowel movement per major meal is optimum....The frequency often reported as "normal" is based on what is "normal" for any one person and does not reflect the optimum function. Bowel movements should reflect the number of "major meals" a person eats (one movement per major meal)
4 Diarrhea/loose stool....again...soft but formed....
5 Bathroom Libraries.....yes, bathroom libraries. It should not take enough time to do ANY reading on the toilet!! Optimal bowel function makes for a quick trip...and not a research session!!!
6 Straining...any required straining is not a good sign. This can be associated with constipation, but can be a common practice for some even without the presence of hard,dry stool. This lets you know things are not moving easily and naturally.
7 Abnormally colored stool....Brown is the way to go....brown is indicative of the bile salts doing their job. Color can be influenced by consumption of some foods, but generally, unusual color indicates a problem. Sometimes, this is an indication of a serious problem. It pays to know your poo.....(Billy once had a neon blue movement....I am pretty sure it was the bag of blue raspberry licorice he ate...I'm not thinking there is ANY disorder that could mimic THAT color....YUCK...silly man)
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Natural Fertility Diaries......The Hormone Balancing Act
The female cycle is ruled by a delicate balance between Estrogen and Progesterone. Making sure that these hormones are present in sufficient and complimentary quantities is imperative to fertility. Lets explore the roles of these hormones in the menstrual cycle.
What role does estrogen play in the female reproductive cycle?
When answering this question, it is imperative to understand the parts of a woman's monthly cycle. Cycle day 1 is considered the first day of menses. This is also the last day of the previous cycle.(It is the alpha and the omega....the beginning and the end.) What happens at this point? The uterine lining is shed. The amount of lining, or endometrium, that is shed is based on estrogen and progesterone levels. The beginning of the cycle (Follicular phase) is a time of very low estrogen production, typically. When estrogen is low, FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) is released by the hypothalamus triggering an increase in estrogen from the ovaries. The estrogen levels rise, and eventually spike, which produces a mature follicle (an egg ready to be released). Ovulation takes place when LH (Luteinizing Hormone)surge is present.This turns the follicle into the corpus luteum (luteal phase) which will produce progesterone until either the placenta takes over (if pregnancy has occurred) or until it withers away allowing progesterone levels to drop signaling the shed of the edometrial lining (menses)
The increased level of estrogen during the follicular phase is also responsible for building the endometrium so it is rich and ready for implantation of the fertilized ovum. We often see problems with fertility stemming from estrogen dominance. Increased levels of estrogen during this phase inhibits the FSH release and thereby reduces the chances of a mature follicle forming. Birth control pills utilize this by preventing ovulation by increasing estrogen levels at this time. When we are exposing ourselves to increased phyto and xenoestrogens we are also inhibiting ovulation by raising the estrogen levels during the follicular phase. It is very important during this time to avoid foods and substances containing phyto and xenoestrogens, not just for fertility purposes, but also to keep from building an excess of endometrial lining which can be difficult to shed during menses. This can lead to painful periods and excessive bleeding. When using birth control as a remedy for this, there is a method to the madness. Just as increased estrogen is present in the follicular phase, and kept consistent to prevent the spike that triggers FSH and LH production,progestins are added to counteract the estrogen dominance that leads to symptoms of low progesterone. The added progestin keeps the endometrium from becoming very thick and hard to shed. In this way, the pill is able to regulate excessive bleeding and some pain caused by hormonal imbalance. When regulating a cycle using natural methods, we must take that into consideration. The best place to start when attempting to regulate your cycle, whether it is for control of pain and bleeding or increasing fertility, we should cleanse the liver of excess estrogen. This requires a bit of patience, but is well worth the effort. Leafy greens and cruciferous veggies have a very powerful effect and results can be seen within a week! A liver supportive diet will continue to provide relief. Be very conscious of phytoestrogens in foods (eliminate soy completely during this time) and xenoestrogens that are found in every day items and products. Inform yourself, and beat the cycle...so to speak.
My liver supportive meal that I love to share is simple and artistic. Balancing color and flavors was the aim. This heightened the experience which is always a way to ensure the full energetic potential of the food is readily accepted by the mind and body.
Yin Yang Soup
one half of the soup is
Organic pumpkin
Chinese Five Spice powder
very finely chopped sweet peppers
Brewer's yeast
The other half of the soup
Split peas
onion
garlic
sea salt
very finely chopped jalapenos
both soups are pureed or cooked to desirable consistency....I wanted my split pea side to have a bit of texture in it so I did not puree it.....
When both soups are complete, serve them by making a Yin and Yang pattern in the bowl. A nice flavor booster (and to make the dots in the symbol) can be some soy or coconut yogurt dollops =) SOOOOOO tasty and pretty too!!
This healthful soup is not only good for the liver by providing plenty of fiber, vitamin A, alpha-lipoic acid (thanks to the brewer's yeast), Omega3, and B vitamins, but is also supportive of gold element, fire and acessory fire, earth, and water. Talk about the balance found in the Yin and Yang =) If the vision alone of this soup does not support peaceful emotions and calm mind, the patience needed when creating it, the joy of the flavors,all of the nutrients, and the positive message you send when serving it to others will certainly boost healing energies!!
454 calories (without the yogurt). 0 refined sugars. 22g fiber. I burned 542 calories by writng 30 minutes, talking on the phone 30 minutes, washing the dishes (30 min) cooking for 30 minutes, studying 45 minutes, and walking 30 minutes at 4mph. =)
What role does estrogen play in the female reproductive cycle?
When answering this question, it is imperative to understand the parts of a woman's monthly cycle. Cycle day 1 is considered the first day of menses. This is also the last day of the previous cycle.(It is the alpha and the omega....the beginning and the end.) What happens at this point? The uterine lining is shed. The amount of lining, or endometrium, that is shed is based on estrogen and progesterone levels. The beginning of the cycle (Follicular phase) is a time of very low estrogen production, typically. When estrogen is low, FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) is released by the hypothalamus triggering an increase in estrogen from the ovaries. The estrogen levels rise, and eventually spike, which produces a mature follicle (an egg ready to be released). Ovulation takes place when LH (Luteinizing Hormone)surge is present.This turns the follicle into the corpus luteum (luteal phase) which will produce progesterone until either the placenta takes over (if pregnancy has occurred) or until it withers away allowing progesterone levels to drop signaling the shed of the edometrial lining (menses)
The increased level of estrogen during the follicular phase is also responsible for building the endometrium so it is rich and ready for implantation of the fertilized ovum. We often see problems with fertility stemming from estrogen dominance. Increased levels of estrogen during this phase inhibits the FSH release and thereby reduces the chances of a mature follicle forming. Birth control pills utilize this by preventing ovulation by increasing estrogen levels at this time. When we are exposing ourselves to increased phyto and xenoestrogens we are also inhibiting ovulation by raising the estrogen levels during the follicular phase. It is very important during this time to avoid foods and substances containing phyto and xenoestrogens, not just for fertility purposes, but also to keep from building an excess of endometrial lining which can be difficult to shed during menses. This can lead to painful periods and excessive bleeding. When using birth control as a remedy for this, there is a method to the madness. Just as increased estrogen is present in the follicular phase, and kept consistent to prevent the spike that triggers FSH and LH production,progestins are added to counteract the estrogen dominance that leads to symptoms of low progesterone. The added progestin keeps the endometrium from becoming very thick and hard to shed. In this way, the pill is able to regulate excessive bleeding and some pain caused by hormonal imbalance. When regulating a cycle using natural methods, we must take that into consideration. The best place to start when attempting to regulate your cycle, whether it is for control of pain and bleeding or increasing fertility, we should cleanse the liver of excess estrogen. This requires a bit of patience, but is well worth the effort. Leafy greens and cruciferous veggies have a very powerful effect and results can be seen within a week! A liver supportive diet will continue to provide relief. Be very conscious of phytoestrogens in foods (eliminate soy completely during this time) and xenoestrogens that are found in every day items and products. Inform yourself, and beat the cycle...so to speak.
My liver supportive meal that I love to share is simple and artistic. Balancing color and flavors was the aim. This heightened the experience which is always a way to ensure the full energetic potential of the food is readily accepted by the mind and body.
Yin Yang Soup
one half of the soup is
Organic pumpkin
Chinese Five Spice powder
very finely chopped sweet peppers
Brewer's yeast
The other half of the soup
Split peas
onion
garlic
sea salt
very finely chopped jalapenos
both soups are pureed or cooked to desirable consistency....I wanted my split pea side to have a bit of texture in it so I did not puree it.....
When both soups are complete, serve them by making a Yin and Yang pattern in the bowl. A nice flavor booster (and to make the dots in the symbol) can be some soy or coconut yogurt dollops =) SOOOOOO tasty and pretty too!!
This healthful soup is not only good for the liver by providing plenty of fiber, vitamin A, alpha-lipoic acid (thanks to the brewer's yeast), Omega3, and B vitamins, but is also supportive of gold element, fire and acessory fire, earth, and water. Talk about the balance found in the Yin and Yang =) If the vision alone of this soup does not support peaceful emotions and calm mind, the patience needed when creating it, the joy of the flavors,all of the nutrients, and the positive message you send when serving it to others will certainly boost healing energies!!
454 calories (without the yogurt). 0 refined sugars. 22g fiber. I burned 542 calories by writng 30 minutes, talking on the phone 30 minutes, washing the dishes (30 min) cooking for 30 minutes, studying 45 minutes, and walking 30 minutes at 4mph. =)
Monday, September 20, 2010
Natural Fertility Diaries.......Diagnosing Infertility
Fertility issues often go undiagnosed because, unless a couple is trying to conceive, the underlying causes can go unnoticed. Most couples find success within the first 6 months of trying to conceive. An estimated 85% of couples will conceive after twelve months of unprotected intercourse. Approximately 50% of the remaining couples will conceive within the next 36 months. For the ones that have not conceived, this may be the only sign of infertility.
There can be other indicators of an underlying problem when the female experiences any abnormal menstrual patterns. This can include pain and abnormal bleeding as well as cycle irregularities. This could be indicating hormonal imbalances or a physical blockage or barrier. A male may experience and show signs of sexual dysfunction and abnormal hair growth patterns that may signal hormonal imbalances that could possibly be contributing to the couple's inability to conceive. There are also potential physical blockages in the male that may influence the couple's fertility issues. So how do we figure out the causes??
The first step is to review a complete medical history on the couple to find any clues as to what may be causing the problem. This will include questions about the couple's sexual habits. This is to ensure intercourse is happening in a way that is enabling conception to occur. Often the cause of a physical barrier to conception can be found during an ultrasound if a female's history contains any previous STDs, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), endometriosis, PCOS, ectopic pregnancy, abdominal or pelvic surgeries, or any other uterine abnormalities.Physically manifested problems are estimated to cause approximately 35% of female infertility. In the male, Varicocele, a mass of dilated veins in the scrotum, can cause a physical barrier. Other potential male physical complications could be a result of testicular injury, trauma, surgeries or illness.
The next step, if there are no noticeable signs of disease or dysfunction, would be a fertility work up. This would include a series of tests that check the hormone levels at several points in the cycle for the female and a semen analysis for the male. Anovulatory cycles and reduced fertility due to age can be detected in this manner in the female. Levels of FSH, LH, prolactin, and progesterone are checked. Male sperm quality and quantity are observed.
As we move forward with the Natural Fertility Diaries, I will explore options to improve the chances of conception by looking more closely at these and other potential causes and finding alternative treatments for many. I welcome you to join me on this journey.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/infertility/DS00310/DSECTION=symptoms
http://www.womenshealthchannel.com/infertility/diagnosis.shtml
http://www.mayoclinic.org/infertility/diagnosis.html
http://www.sharedjourney.com/dx.html
There can be other indicators of an underlying problem when the female experiences any abnormal menstrual patterns. This can include pain and abnormal bleeding as well as cycle irregularities. This could be indicating hormonal imbalances or a physical blockage or barrier. A male may experience and show signs of sexual dysfunction and abnormal hair growth patterns that may signal hormonal imbalances that could possibly be contributing to the couple's inability to conceive. There are also potential physical blockages in the male that may influence the couple's fertility issues. So how do we figure out the causes??
The first step is to review a complete medical history on the couple to find any clues as to what may be causing the problem. This will include questions about the couple's sexual habits. This is to ensure intercourse is happening in a way that is enabling conception to occur. Often the cause of a physical barrier to conception can be found during an ultrasound if a female's history contains any previous STDs, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), endometriosis, PCOS, ectopic pregnancy, abdominal or pelvic surgeries, or any other uterine abnormalities.Physically manifested problems are estimated to cause approximately 35% of female infertility. In the male, Varicocele, a mass of dilated veins in the scrotum, can cause a physical barrier. Other potential male physical complications could be a result of testicular injury, trauma, surgeries or illness.
The next step, if there are no noticeable signs of disease or dysfunction, would be a fertility work up. This would include a series of tests that check the hormone levels at several points in the cycle for the female and a semen analysis for the male. Anovulatory cycles and reduced fertility due to age can be detected in this manner in the female. Levels of FSH, LH, prolactin, and progesterone are checked. Male sperm quality and quantity are observed.
As we move forward with the Natural Fertility Diaries, I will explore options to improve the chances of conception by looking more closely at these and other potential causes and finding alternative treatments for many. I welcome you to join me on this journey.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/infertility/DS00310/DSECTION=symptoms
http://www.womenshealthchannel.com/infertility/diagnosis.shtml
http://www.mayoclinic.org/infertility/diagnosis.html
http://www.sharedjourney.com/dx.html
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Natural Fertility Diaries
Infertility is a problem that an estimated 6.1 million couples battle. Some very dear friends of mine are one of those 6.1 million. I have never met a more deserving couple. I cried with them. I prayed with them. I watched this couple struggle with the trials and tribulations, and witnessed their heartache. After a surgery claiming one ovary, staying positive and hopeful was a bit difficult, but they just kept trying. Eventually, they even tried medical fertility interventions, but to no avail. They stopped trying as so many couples do.
My friend had shared my interest in herbal medicine and nutrition therapy and was using this as a means to treat several existing health issues for her and her husband. She had no idea what was in store for them. One fateful day, she entered the hospital, fearful that the pain she felt meant she was going to lose her remaining ovary. Quite to their surprise they found out they were 7 weeks pregnant!!!! They had changed their diets to include mostly organic foods and continued to treat other health issues with herbal remedies. Little did they know at the time that they were also enhancing their fertility!!
So what exactly did they do? What did they change? How did this affect their fertility? Over the next few weeks, I will be looking deeper into their diet and other changes that may have increased the chances of conception. I will take a closer look at other herbal and nutritional recommendations for treating infertility in men and women. I will also cover some topics related to pregnancy as well as hormonal regulation through diet and supplementation. I hope this information will be useful for clients and readers alike when bringing their little miracles into the world.
My friend had shared my interest in herbal medicine and nutrition therapy and was using this as a means to treat several existing health issues for her and her husband. She had no idea what was in store for them. One fateful day, she entered the hospital, fearful that the pain she felt meant she was going to lose her remaining ovary. Quite to their surprise they found out they were 7 weeks pregnant!!!! They had changed their diets to include mostly organic foods and continued to treat other health issues with herbal remedies. Little did they know at the time that they were also enhancing their fertility!!
So what exactly did they do? What did they change? How did this affect their fertility? Over the next few weeks, I will be looking deeper into their diet and other changes that may have increased the chances of conception. I will take a closer look at other herbal and nutritional recommendations for treating infertility in men and women. I will also cover some topics related to pregnancy as well as hormonal regulation through diet and supplementation. I hope this information will be useful for clients and readers alike when bringing their little miracles into the world.
Friday, September 3, 2010
Where Do We Begin?? A Journey To Nutritional Healing
After much consideration, I have chosen to move forward with my personal research in the areas of detoxification and clinical fasting. I feel that the general health issues I encounter would be far more effectively treated if my clients had a fresh slate to begin with. The diets that I see commonly would more than likely prevent or restrict any benefits of supplementation. A system that is overloaded with toxins and intestines that are spackled with fats and other toxic residues just cannot effectively absorb nutrients from foods or supplements.
I believe that detoxification of the body, cleansing, fasting and purging of wastes would be the most logical place to start. I realize that I will more than once hate myself for choosing this path. I know that experiencing these things for myself may be one of the toughest things I ever do. I know that this means I will curse, cry, and shake my fists at times out of frustration. I also know that, in the end, I will celebrate. I will be able to hold the hand of even the most challenged client and say..."I PROMISE ...If you just hang in there you will be endlessly thankful that you did. I know what a challenge this might be for you, but it will be well worth it."
And so begins my journey..........
I believe that detoxification of the body, cleansing, fasting and purging of wastes would be the most logical place to start. I realize that I will more than once hate myself for choosing this path. I know that experiencing these things for myself may be one of the toughest things I ever do. I know that this means I will curse, cry, and shake my fists at times out of frustration. I also know that, in the end, I will celebrate. I will be able to hold the hand of even the most challenged client and say..."I PROMISE ...If you just hang in there you will be endlessly thankful that you did. I know what a challenge this might be for you, but it will be well worth it."
And so begins my journey..........
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Mineral Depletion of Soil....So what....
Minerals are an essential part of our natural diet and a lack of them may in part account for our increasing susceptibility to the “diseases of civilization” – such as heart disease (magnesium), cancer (selenium), diabetes (chromium) and mental illnesses (zinc). Every one of us should take care to get the minerals we need, for the good of our health.
http://www.physicalnutrition.net/soil-mineral-depletion.htm
I have been puzzled for several years by the increase of childhood asthma, allergies, bipolar disorder, ADD and ADHD, and other such disorders among the general population. Throughout my holistic nutrition research I have seen many probable explanations. I was content, before, to place blame on the fact that we are introducing new chemicals into the atmosphere all the time. I now have the understanding that it is far more than that. In fact, it is not just the addition of chemicals into the atmosphere and our diets, but also the depletion of nutrients from our soil.
Over the last century our animal and vegetable food sources have suffered a significant drop in nutrient content. Genetic engineering has placed a higher value on physical traits rather than nutritive quality. The soil has been depleted of it's minerals due to chemical use and over farming. This affects all of our vegetation and therefore all of our livestock and even the human population.
Though most can understand the link between chemical pollutants and the increase instance of allergies and asthma in the population, it may not be so obvious why we are seeing an increase in the other disorders or what any of this has to do with our food sources. Let me explain.
When our body systems are not balanced, even down to the cellular level, we see an increased likelihood of symptoms of disease and disorder. These symptoms or signs of imbalance can be very subtle. Often times we associate these things with other causes without understanding what is really going on. What IS going on is that our diets are lacking nutrients, are too acidifying, and completely unbalanced. We are creating a toxic environment in our bodies and then attempting to treat the symptoms with more toxins!!!
We should, instead, focus on returning balance to our bodies and our food sources. The mineral depletion of our soil has reduced the mineral contents of our food. I found some really interesting information when researching mineral values. I was instructed to further research Selenium. I ended up finding that Selenium, Glutathione Peroxidase, and Vitamins E and C are related to asthma. Selenium (actually in the form of selenocysteine) is incorporated to the four active sites of the enzyme Glutathione Perioxidase. This enzyme plays an active role in eliminating free radicals associated with oxidative damage.
I had such a DUH moment when I put all of this together. This explained why we are seeing such an enormous rise in childhood asthma. WOW!! I was relieved to finally have another piece of the puzzle.
The soil depletion is just an example, just one of the many effects of our carelessness on this planet. Organic farming, crop rotations, and other methods of keeping the soil healthy and nutrient dense are long past due. This cycle of destruction needs to stop. We need natural, healthy food sources if we want to be healthy individuals. We need a healthy planet if we want healthy food sources.....it is a very simple concept.
http://www.physicalnutrition.net/soil-mineral-depletion.htm
I have been puzzled for several years by the increase of childhood asthma, allergies, bipolar disorder, ADD and ADHD, and other such disorders among the general population. Throughout my holistic nutrition research I have seen many probable explanations. I was content, before, to place blame on the fact that we are introducing new chemicals into the atmosphere all the time. I now have the understanding that it is far more than that. In fact, it is not just the addition of chemicals into the atmosphere and our diets, but also the depletion of nutrients from our soil.
Over the last century our animal and vegetable food sources have suffered a significant drop in nutrient content. Genetic engineering has placed a higher value on physical traits rather than nutritive quality. The soil has been depleted of it's minerals due to chemical use and over farming. This affects all of our vegetation and therefore all of our livestock and even the human population.
Though most can understand the link between chemical pollutants and the increase instance of allergies and asthma in the population, it may not be so obvious why we are seeing an increase in the other disorders or what any of this has to do with our food sources. Let me explain.
When our body systems are not balanced, even down to the cellular level, we see an increased likelihood of symptoms of disease and disorder. These symptoms or signs of imbalance can be very subtle. Often times we associate these things with other causes without understanding what is really going on. What IS going on is that our diets are lacking nutrients, are too acidifying, and completely unbalanced. We are creating a toxic environment in our bodies and then attempting to treat the symptoms with more toxins!!!
We should, instead, focus on returning balance to our bodies and our food sources. The mineral depletion of our soil has reduced the mineral contents of our food. I found some really interesting information when researching mineral values. I was instructed to further research Selenium. I ended up finding that Selenium, Glutathione Peroxidase, and Vitamins E and C are related to asthma. Selenium (actually in the form of selenocysteine) is incorporated to the four active sites of the enzyme Glutathione Perioxidase. This enzyme plays an active role in eliminating free radicals associated with oxidative damage.
I had such a DUH moment when I put all of this together. This explained why we are seeing such an enormous rise in childhood asthma. WOW!! I was relieved to finally have another piece of the puzzle.
The soil depletion is just an example, just one of the many effects of our carelessness on this planet. Organic farming, crop rotations, and other methods of keeping the soil healthy and nutrient dense are long past due. This cycle of destruction needs to stop. We need natural, healthy food sources if we want to be healthy individuals. We need a healthy planet if we want healthy food sources.....it is a very simple concept.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Surprising pH Experiment Results
Our Holistic Nutrition Instructor...or should I say "nutrition Guru" assigned an experiment involving testing our saliva and urine pH daily. We were to take a waking sample on saliva, waking urine, and last nightly urine. I was absolutely dumbfounded by my findings!!
I struggled to find the test strips required for this project. I finally found them a few towns away. I am surprised that the stress of not finding these on time didn't cause a different outcome!! I tested every day....and every time I tested, I was shocked to find the readings to always be between 6.0 and 6.4ish. This is within the optimum range but on the low side. I love my coffee, but have cut back to only one or two cups a day and I try to make those organic. Based on the coffee alone, I expected my diet to land farther on the acidifying end of things. SURPRISE!! I had just done calculations for refined sugar in my diet as well. I was also shocked by how little sugar I consume on a regular basis. I am not sure why I am so shocked. I suppose I have designed my diet up until this point for what FEELS best for me with little regard for why. SURPRISE!! I am most satisfied with my eating habits. Naturally, there are adjustments to be made.....as I assume there always will be as my body changes. I enjoy yoga daily, and have begun to study breathing techniques. Honestly, I FEEL healthier knowing that I AM healthier than I thought....hahahahahahahaha This creates a cycle of even healthier behavior!!! This only gets better from here!!!
I struggled to find the test strips required for this project. I finally found them a few towns away. I am surprised that the stress of not finding these on time didn't cause a different outcome!! I tested every day....and every time I tested, I was shocked to find the readings to always be between 6.0 and 6.4ish. This is within the optimum range but on the low side. I love my coffee, but have cut back to only one or two cups a day and I try to make those organic. Based on the coffee alone, I expected my diet to land farther on the acidifying end of things. SURPRISE!! I had just done calculations for refined sugar in my diet as well. I was also shocked by how little sugar I consume on a regular basis. I am not sure why I am so shocked. I suppose I have designed my diet up until this point for what FEELS best for me with little regard for why. SURPRISE!! I am most satisfied with my eating habits. Naturally, there are adjustments to be made.....as I assume there always will be as my body changes. I enjoy yoga daily, and have begun to study breathing techniques. Honestly, I FEEL healthier knowing that I AM healthier than I thought....hahahahahahahaha This creates a cycle of even healthier behavior!!! This only gets better from here!!!
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Fiber...a "Moving" Tale
I have never understood why getting enough fiber is so challenging for most people. I have always had a little rule I follow.....avoid foods that have less than 2grams of fiber. That sounds great until you learn the next lesson; you can get too much fiber!!! WOW!! I never knew that before I suffered an awful attack of constipation. I couldn't believe it!! I was sooooo good about my fiber intake. "How could this happen?" I wondered. I was taking a nutrition course in college, so I asked my instructor. It was then and there that I felt like a total idiot. An idiot that had just learned something amazing. I mean, everything in moderation right??? DUH...even good things become not so good in excess. Since then, I still eat quite a bit of fiber but am careful not to consume too much. There are several very tasty treats on the market that have a high fiber content. I try to avoid these now if I am enjoying a full day with all of God's high fiber foods =)
How much fiber should one consume? Well, an average of 21-30 grams a day is a good place to start. At about 50 grams daily you may start to see some ill effects. O_o Staying below 45 grams seems to be a safe bet.
Now assuming you are getting enough fiber....but not too much LOL ....there are many benefits. A diet high in fiber is great if you are trying to lose weight. It takes longer to chew and digest, generally, and once it is in, it keeps you feeling full and satisfied longer. With a high fiber diet, it is also imperative to drink plenty of water. This also keeps that full feeling longer. There is a whole digestive cleaning that occurs with proper fiber intake. Like a small roto rooter it gently scrapes the remnants of other food products from the intestines. This leaves more surface space for nutrient absorption. If your body is feeling true nourishment from the food that is eaten and absorbed, overeating is a bit less likely =) On top of that, there are many wastes that are removed by this process. Less waste equals less toxins in the blood stream. Isn't fiber grand???
So the question is really a matter of where to get this fiber. Most American's favorite foods have very little, if any, fiber content. Read your labels!! Avoid the foods that have less than 2 grams of fiber. Enjoy the many God-given options available such as whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, fruits and veggies. You can't cook the fiber out of your food, so there is no need to go "raw" and there is no difficulty in picking up a piece of fresh fruit or a veggie. Point being......there are no valid excuses for not consuming enough fiber =) Sorry....
How much fiber should one consume? Well, an average of 21-30 grams a day is a good place to start. At about 50 grams daily you may start to see some ill effects. O_o Staying below 45 grams seems to be a safe bet.
Now assuming you are getting enough fiber....but not too much LOL ....there are many benefits. A diet high in fiber is great if you are trying to lose weight. It takes longer to chew and digest, generally, and once it is in, it keeps you feeling full and satisfied longer. With a high fiber diet, it is also imperative to drink plenty of water. This also keeps that full feeling longer. There is a whole digestive cleaning that occurs with proper fiber intake. Like a small roto rooter it gently scrapes the remnants of other food products from the intestines. This leaves more surface space for nutrient absorption. If your body is feeling true nourishment from the food that is eaten and absorbed, overeating is a bit less likely =) On top of that, there are many wastes that are removed by this process. Less waste equals less toxins in the blood stream. Isn't fiber grand???
So the question is really a matter of where to get this fiber. Most American's favorite foods have very little, if any, fiber content. Read your labels!! Avoid the foods that have less than 2 grams of fiber. Enjoy the many God-given options available such as whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, fruits and veggies. You can't cook the fiber out of your food, so there is no need to go "raw" and there is no difficulty in picking up a piece of fresh fruit or a veggie. Point being......there are no valid excuses for not consuming enough fiber =) Sorry....
Friday, July 9, 2010
Protein
Protein is such a huge factor in human nutrition. Next to water, protein is the second largest component in the human body. Some of the protein broken down in the body can be recycled, but we cannot store it!! Unlike the crumbs on your shirt from lunch, there is no saving some for later =) In fact, this process of breaking down proteins, and rebuilding them (protein synthesis) is taking place within our bodies 24 hours a day. If we do not intake the right amount of protein daily, the body will find other structures within the body to break down. This could lead to serious health issues. How do we ensure the right amount of protein is available? Let's take a look, first at what our bodies can and cannot produce internally.
Essential Amino Acids
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. Most microorganisms can biosynthesize all 20 standard amino acids, while most animals, humans included, must receive the 8 out of these 20 from their diet. So where do we find all of these essential amino acids??
Foods from animal sources are typically rich in essential amino acids. These include chicken, fish, eggs, dairy products, beef, and pork. Plant sources of protein are readily available. Such sources include dried beans, peas, soy, nuts, and seeds. Although plant sources generally lack one or more of the essential amino acids, when combined with whole grains such as rice, or by eating nuts or seeds with legumes, all the amino acids can be obtained.
Essential Amino Acids
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. Most microorganisms can biosynthesize all 20 standard amino acids, while most animals, humans included, must receive the 8 out of these 20 from their diet. So where do we find all of these essential amino acids??
Foods from animal sources are typically rich in essential amino acids. These include chicken, fish, eggs, dairy products, beef, and pork. Plant sources of protein are readily available. Such sources include dried beans, peas, soy, nuts, and seeds. Although plant sources generally lack one or more of the essential amino acids, when combined with whole grains such as rice, or by eating nuts or seeds with legumes, all the amino acids can be obtained.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Big Business and organics often don't mix.....
The subject of food concerns all of us. Every human eats. What best nourishes the body and soul is food you feel good about eating. How good do you feel about that next bite??
After watching the documentary Food Inc. I am filled with mixed emotions. I have had some experiences with anorexia in my life. Not the kind that leads to a shell of a body, but rather and unwillingness to put anything in my mouth that had a single unpronounceable ingredient on it's label. Not having much money, this can lead to near starvation. The worst was the point in my life when I was homeless and hungry. Even then, I reluctantly ate whatever the shelter prepared and put in my little brown lunch sack. Bologna and ketchup on white bread. I would rather die. Literally. After a month of not having anything real to eat I gave in. I ate the bread and discarded the "meat". It was always a beautiful day when our donated evening meal came from the Hindu family that volunteered at the shelter. I could really feel good about eating the cuisine rich in flavor and nutrition. This happened once a month. I am still grateful for that nourishment!!
I can't blame the shelter for packing such foods in our "beggar bags". They worked with donations and needed cheap food. This is exactly where our society is with it's current food dilemma. How do we offer high quality at a cheap price? Really, there will always be a higher cost. Sacrificing natural, nutritional qualities of foods to squeeze them into a packaged product on the supermarket shelf. We then chemically replace what was lost. It's a mess. I see some companies pushing forward and offering "organic" alternatives. I applaud the effort.
Regardless, mass production of food has it's limitations. Period. I don't care if your label says "organic". If this food is mass produced, we are still going to see a bending and stretching of the rules and guidelines that are ethically and ecologically sound. We have seen this trend for ongoing years. "All natural" no longer means squat to me. I appreciate the acceptance and the push forward, but it is still Big Money....Big Business...Big Mistakes....
http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/06_42/b4005001.htm
I would like to give an honorable mention to the farmers that stay small and feed a community. These are my heroes. I find the mistreatment and exploitation of these farmers criminal. I suppose one of my lifetime goals is to become part of a community that is fairly self-sustaining. Grow here, eat here, thrive here. There will always be some dependence on outside resources, but it seems much more reasonable to me to focus on a community approach rather than trying to feed millions where the question of quality is concerned. Each would have to do their part, obviously, and barter and trade systems would need to be in place within the region but it is possible. I suppose somewhere......MANY MANY moons ago this was the way we lived. Now we have no idea what it would be like to live this way. I mean, think of everything you eat and use daily that comes from an unknown location!!! Read your labels....where did your products come from?? Even then it is more likely packaged in that location. You may really never know the origination of the ingredients. That scares me. As much as I would likely cry like a baby at having to give up exotic foods, fish,veggies and fruits I would be frightened knowing their history by the time they reached my plate. Truly frightened.
What happened to Gramma's pantry?? (I might just have to open a co-op with this name lol) Grampa had his bees....the bees made heavenly varieties of honey. The honey was eaten on bread served with tons of Gramma's canned veggies, fresh veggies and fruit from THEIR GARDEN!!!! The honey was sold which bought the supplies for these endeavors while Grampa worked in a factory for living expenses. Is this too difficult these days??? I guess so. That's sad.
After watching the documentary Food Inc. I am filled with mixed emotions. I have had some experiences with anorexia in my life. Not the kind that leads to a shell of a body, but rather and unwillingness to put anything in my mouth that had a single unpronounceable ingredient on it's label. Not having much money, this can lead to near starvation. The worst was the point in my life when I was homeless and hungry. Even then, I reluctantly ate whatever the shelter prepared and put in my little brown lunch sack. Bologna and ketchup on white bread. I would rather die. Literally. After a month of not having anything real to eat I gave in. I ate the bread and discarded the "meat". It was always a beautiful day when our donated evening meal came from the Hindu family that volunteered at the shelter. I could really feel good about eating the cuisine rich in flavor and nutrition. This happened once a month. I am still grateful for that nourishment!!
I can't blame the shelter for packing such foods in our "beggar bags". They worked with donations and needed cheap food. This is exactly where our society is with it's current food dilemma. How do we offer high quality at a cheap price? Really, there will always be a higher cost. Sacrificing natural, nutritional qualities of foods to squeeze them into a packaged product on the supermarket shelf. We then chemically replace what was lost. It's a mess. I see some companies pushing forward and offering "organic" alternatives. I applaud the effort.
Regardless, mass production of food has it's limitations. Period. I don't care if your label says "organic". If this food is mass produced, we are still going to see a bending and stretching of the rules and guidelines that are ethically and ecologically sound. We have seen this trend for ongoing years. "All natural" no longer means squat to me. I appreciate the acceptance and the push forward, but it is still Big Money....Big Business...Big Mistakes....
http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/06_42/b4005001.htm
I would like to give an honorable mention to the farmers that stay small and feed a community. These are my heroes. I find the mistreatment and exploitation of these farmers criminal. I suppose one of my lifetime goals is to become part of a community that is fairly self-sustaining. Grow here, eat here, thrive here. There will always be some dependence on outside resources, but it seems much more reasonable to me to focus on a community approach rather than trying to feed millions where the question of quality is concerned. Each would have to do their part, obviously, and barter and trade systems would need to be in place within the region but it is possible. I suppose somewhere......MANY MANY moons ago this was the way we lived. Now we have no idea what it would be like to live this way. I mean, think of everything you eat and use daily that comes from an unknown location!!! Read your labels....where did your products come from?? Even then it is more likely packaged in that location. You may really never know the origination of the ingredients. That scares me. As much as I would likely cry like a baby at having to give up exotic foods, fish,veggies and fruits I would be frightened knowing their history by the time they reached my plate. Truly frightened.
What happened to Gramma's pantry?? (I might just have to open a co-op with this name lol) Grampa had his bees....the bees made heavenly varieties of honey. The honey was eaten on bread served with tons of Gramma's canned veggies, fresh veggies and fruit from THEIR GARDEN!!!! The honey was sold which bought the supplies for these endeavors while Grampa worked in a factory for living expenses. Is this too difficult these days??? I guess so. That's sad.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Far More Than Produce....
When does shopping become more than just purchasing food??? WHEN YOU SPEAK TO OTHER CUSTOMERS!!! I encourage everyone to try this next time they shop!!! You never know what you might learn.
I entered the small grocery store in Oregon, Illinois yesterday with a smile and a warm heart and got far more than groceries. When you first enter this store you find yourself in the produce section. I LOVE fresh produce!! This is not just because I love the colors. This is not just because I love fresh produce. This is because I love to watch as people pick their produce. So much goes on when a person can sift through large sections of fruit and vegetables and fondle every last piece until they find just the right one. Yesterday was no different. I found a sale on cherry tomatoes and a woman in her late 70's. We began to discuss apples. She said she had a problem with the pink ladies. "They tasted like I was eating an unripe green apple from the tree" I had to giggle. I wonder if this is something most of my generation can even remember doing? I can remember. I also remember when a red delicious was delicious. I commented on how grainy they have become. This was the spark of a whole discussion of holistic nutrition, new foods, and the quality of the produce in local markets. By the time we had discussed the quality of local produce, using star fruit as a substitution for pineapple in an upside down cake, and the absence of a grocery store in my town, another woman chimed in. She told us of the larger farmer's market in Rockford. (Illinois' second largest city just 45 minutes north of us) We continued on through the produce section discussing family size and the troubles a mom can have with serving healthful foods to please the whole family. Eventually we all went our separate ways and continued our shopping.
With a full cart I found found my self on the other side of the store in the dairy section completing my shopping. I heard a small voice. " I finally caught up with you." I looked to see the first woman extending a bag of apricots in my direction. "I don't know if your family will eat these, but they have a super deal on them." I was shifted back to childhood again. Apricots were another fruit I ate straight from the tree as a child. "Look" she said "They are good looking apricots." "Yes, they are." I replied, filled with the joy that I had somehow bonded with this woman. "Thank you so much."
I entered the small grocery store in Oregon, Illinois yesterday with a smile and a warm heart and got far more than groceries. When you first enter this store you find yourself in the produce section. I LOVE fresh produce!! This is not just because I love the colors. This is not just because I love fresh produce. This is because I love to watch as people pick their produce. So much goes on when a person can sift through large sections of fruit and vegetables and fondle every last piece until they find just the right one. Yesterday was no different. I found a sale on cherry tomatoes and a woman in her late 70's. We began to discuss apples. She said she had a problem with the pink ladies. "They tasted like I was eating an unripe green apple from the tree" I had to giggle. I wonder if this is something most of my generation can even remember doing? I can remember. I also remember when a red delicious was delicious. I commented on how grainy they have become. This was the spark of a whole discussion of holistic nutrition, new foods, and the quality of the produce in local markets. By the time we had discussed the quality of local produce, using star fruit as a substitution for pineapple in an upside down cake, and the absence of a grocery store in my town, another woman chimed in. She told us of the larger farmer's market in Rockford. (Illinois' second largest city just 45 minutes north of us) We continued on through the produce section discussing family size and the troubles a mom can have with serving healthful foods to please the whole family. Eventually we all went our separate ways and continued our shopping.
With a full cart I found found my self on the other side of the store in the dairy section completing my shopping. I heard a small voice. " I finally caught up with you." I looked to see the first woman extending a bag of apricots in my direction. "I don't know if your family will eat these, but they have a super deal on them." I was shifted back to childhood again. Apricots were another fruit I ate straight from the tree as a child. "Look" she said "They are good looking apricots." "Yes, they are." I replied, filled with the joy that I had somehow bonded with this woman. "Thank you so much."
Friday, June 11, 2010
Starting Class
Missing in this photo....the extra large coffee pot that is kept full for the entire crew(the pistachios are propped against the top), , my head is covering the tortillas and the cottage cheese, I have a GIANT zit on my cheek that you can hardly see due to the angle, and last but not least...MY ALMONDS!! (this is a crisis...they are a staple). I don't seem to be talented enough to get a full body shot by myself. Hahaha I do, however, have several photos from this time period to observe changes.
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