EXCITOTOXINS: MORE ALARMING THAN EXCITING
What if someone were to tell you that certain food additives could cause brain damage in your children and/or effect their nervous systems as they develop so that in later years they would have learning or emotional difficulties?
What if someone provided you with evidence that the artificial sweetener in your diet soft drink may cause brain tumors to develop, and that the number of brain tumors reported since this sweetener came into common use has risen dramatically?
What if it could be demonstrated that all of these types of chemicals called excitotoxins could aggravate or precipitate neurodegenerative brain diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, ALS, and Alzheimer's?
Dr. Russell L. Blaylock M.D. has compiled some of this vital research in his book, Excitotoxins--the Taste that Kills. Excitotoxins are substances that stimulate the brain. When added to our food, they enhance the taste and have been the go-to for food manufacturers for a long time. Some familiar names of these additives are MSG, Aspartame, and hydrolyzed vegetable protein. Unfortunately these common substances added to many foods are the same ones that produce brain damage in animal experiments. Maybe this wouldn't be such a big deal if human brains weren't several times more sensitive to excitotoxins than those of animals.
Evidence against these additives was first discovered in 1957, when two ophthalmologists tested MSG on infant mice and found that it destroyed all the nerve cells in the animals' retinas. Ten years later a neuroscientist, John W. Olney, M.D., repeated this experiment. He found that not only was MSG toxic to the retina but also the brain.
At this time millions of babies were eating baby food containing large amounts of MSG and hydrolyzed vegetable protein which is a compound of three excitotoxins. In spite of Dr. Olney's frightening discovery, food manufacturers continued to put these additives in foods of all kinds. Even the FDA refused to take action when informed by Dr. Olney. Only after he testified before congressional committee, did manufacturers agree to remove the additives from baby food. However, they continued to add excitotoxins in other forms to baby food and hundreds of other foods. (See the list below of hidden sources of MSG.)
In Dr. Blaylock's book, published in 1997, he expounds on the research that has been done on the harmful effects of excitotoxins. Twenty years later, although research mounts, processed foods continue to contain these substances in spades.
For example, since his book was written there has been a 200% increase in low calorie sweetener use by children. Aspartame is even found in children's medicines. This in spite of research that is becoming too expansive to ignore that links artificial sweeteners to a host of negative metabolic and neurological effects. While U.S. health agencies claim that they are safe, science says otherwise.
HIDDEN SOURCES OF MSG
Always contain MSG:
Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein
Hydrolyzed Protein
Hydrolyzed Plant Protein
Plant Protein Extract
Sodium Caseinate
Calcium Caseinate
Yeast Extract
Textured Protein
Autolyzed Yeast
Hydrolyzed Oat Flour
Frequently contain MSG:
Malt Extract
Malt Flavoring
Bouillon
Broth
Stock
Flavoring
Natural Flavoring
Natural Beef or Chicken Flavoring
Seasoning
Spices
Additives that may contain MSG or excitotoxins:
Carrageenan
Enzymes
Soy Protein Concentrate
Soy Protein Isolate
Whey Protein Concentrate
I am sure this is an incomplete list since it is 20 years old. I recommend that we all read labels suspiciously. I wish I had done this sooner, as I am finding in my own home some products containing these dangerous additives.
Friday, March 24, 2017
Sunday, January 24, 2016
REDUCE THE TOTAL LOAD!
In other posts I have expressed my feelings of concern and alarm about chemical, physical, and emotional stressors. I am particularly concerned about what is happening to children. I have talked about the higher rates of autism, ADHD, diabetes and other disorders occurring in children. I am very familiar with what can happen to an adult's health because of these toxins.
What can we do? We can make every effort to become aware of what is toxic and detrimental, then make every effort to reduce or eliminate it in our lives. Here is a list of some toxins/stressors that I am aware of.
Water unless it is filtered and mineralized. It needs to be "living" water that is absorbable. I found out by hard experience that distilled water, though pure, was dead and not usable in my body. Water in areas has high mineral content, heavy metals, chlorine, fluoride added, contaminants, etc. all of which prevent it from being absorbed into our cells. Remember that just being filtered isn't enough. However, whatever we can do to make our water better helps and is a good thing. Bottled water is not necessarily the best option. Often it is the same as tap water plus contaminated by its packaging.
Food. Wow! I could write many pages about what is wrong with our food. I am struggling myself with finding what is best to eat. Some biggies to avoid are sugar, refined and processed foods, foods with preservatives, foods with dyes, corn syrup. For our health, we need to JERF, (Just Eat Real Foods).
Sleep deprivation. Somehow in our culture, sleep is viewed as less important than water and food but it is just as necessary.
Bad air. Oxygen is also essential to life.
Mold
Radon
Pesticides
Chemicals in our cosmetics, deodorants, soaps and cleaning products, furnishings, home construction.
Stressful life styles.
Negative thinking.
Lack of exercise.
Too much screen time and time on devices--especially for children.
After reading this, you may feel overwhelmed and discouraged, maybe even fearful and dismayed. Take courage, and do what you can to reduce the total load. Anything you can do is helpful, even if it is not everything. I recommend prayer, because I know our great Creator will help us!
In other posts I have expressed my feelings of concern and alarm about chemical, physical, and emotional stressors. I am particularly concerned about what is happening to children. I have talked about the higher rates of autism, ADHD, diabetes and other disorders occurring in children. I am very familiar with what can happen to an adult's health because of these toxins.
What can we do? We can make every effort to become aware of what is toxic and detrimental, then make every effort to reduce or eliminate it in our lives. Here is a list of some toxins/stressors that I am aware of.
Water unless it is filtered and mineralized. It needs to be "living" water that is absorbable. I found out by hard experience that distilled water, though pure, was dead and not usable in my body. Water in areas has high mineral content, heavy metals, chlorine, fluoride added, contaminants, etc. all of which prevent it from being absorbed into our cells. Remember that just being filtered isn't enough. However, whatever we can do to make our water better helps and is a good thing. Bottled water is not necessarily the best option. Often it is the same as tap water plus contaminated by its packaging.
Food. Wow! I could write many pages about what is wrong with our food. I am struggling myself with finding what is best to eat. Some biggies to avoid are sugar, refined and processed foods, foods with preservatives, foods with dyes, corn syrup. For our health, we need to JERF, (Just Eat Real Foods).
Sleep deprivation. Somehow in our culture, sleep is viewed as less important than water and food but it is just as necessary.
Bad air. Oxygen is also essential to life.
Mold
Radon
Pesticides
Chemicals in our cosmetics, deodorants, soaps and cleaning products, furnishings, home construction.
Stressful life styles.
Negative thinking.
Lack of exercise.
Too much screen time and time on devices--especially for children.
After reading this, you may feel overwhelmed and discouraged, maybe even fearful and dismayed. Take courage, and do what you can to reduce the total load. Anything you can do is helpful, even if it is not everything. I recommend prayer, because I know our great Creator will help us!
GOD SAVE OUR GENES! NOT TO MENTION OUR ENVIRONMENT!
I recently had a genetic test. Although I am interested in my ancestry--there were no big surprises in the results concerning that--my purpose was to see which of my genes were impacted negatively and therefore impacting my health.
One of my gene pairs has been negatively affected by Roundup, a herbicide. With that in mind, a news article caught my eye. Two seed companies are working together to develop a variety of sugar beets that are resistant to three different herbicides. One of the companies is Monsanto which has a bad name if you are concerned about your food being genetically modified. The article said that most of the sugar beets grown in the Snake River region have already been engineered by Monsanto to resist its widely-used Roundup herbicide.
I'm alarmed! I am concerned about both genetically modified food and widespread use of herbicides.
I am especially concerned for children. What can we do? I don't have a lot of answers but I will express some opinions in my next post.
I want to focus in this post on genes since they have been a big deal in my family and some of my extended family for a while. If I understand correctly, genes are proteins that run the enzymatic reactions needed for the many processes in the body. Chemical, physical, and emotional stressors impede these processes and/or slow them down. It makes sense to take away the stress on genes, or lower the stress level as much as possible.
For more than a decade, various family members have been concerned with the genes that when triggered manifest in gluten intolerance and celiac disease. I am one of those people as family members well know. These genes in my genetic makeup that were apparently triggered or impaired in my childhood are responsible for a lifetime of health difficulties.
Recently, being gluten free has become something of a fad. I saw some funny clips where people in Central Park were interviewed. The interviewer asked if they were gluten free and they said yes. Then they were asked what gluten was and they didn't really know.
Should everyone go gluten free? Some experts think so. Quoting from Betternutrition magazine, Nov. 2015: "Even if you do not have celiac disease, intolerances, allergies, or sensitivities, it may be beneficial to eat gluten-free. The body's natural response to gluten is inflammation in the intestine that can inhibit proper and efficient nutrient absorption, which in turn affects many physiological responses in the body, including reflexes, muscle response, physical endurance, stamina, muscle repair, and energy recovery. Research demonstrates that eating gluten-free can enhance athletic performance."
Should everyone go gluten free? People in my gene pool should seriously consider it! Maybe if we used "old wheat" of the time period when the Word of Wisdom was written most of us would tolerate it. But in this day and age of genetically modified foods, things are different.
However, being gluten free has it's own set of problems! One is that many people that go glutenfree are faced with poor alternative food choices. The other is that you lose a source of B vitamins. Taking that further, you lose the ability to produce certain beneficial bacteria in you gut. If you are gluten free, you should definitely be taking a probiotic containing Bifida strains.
That being said, the benefits of being gluten free far outweigh the obvious difficulties of the change in diet. Take from me! I know! That is why I am doing this post, with the hope that it will keep someone from having to suffer from all the myriad effects that gluten can have on a sensitive body and brain.
If you feel like you should go glutenfree but would like some definitive data supporting that choice, the best way I have found so far is enterolab.com. I recommend both the gene test and the gluten intolerance test.
'
.
I recently had a genetic test. Although I am interested in my ancestry--there were no big surprises in the results concerning that--my purpose was to see which of my genes were impacted negatively and therefore impacting my health.
One of my gene pairs has been negatively affected by Roundup, a herbicide. With that in mind, a news article caught my eye. Two seed companies are working together to develop a variety of sugar beets that are resistant to three different herbicides. One of the companies is Monsanto which has a bad name if you are concerned about your food being genetically modified. The article said that most of the sugar beets grown in the Snake River region have already been engineered by Monsanto to resist its widely-used Roundup herbicide.
I'm alarmed! I am concerned about both genetically modified food and widespread use of herbicides.
I am especially concerned for children. What can we do? I don't have a lot of answers but I will express some opinions in my next post.
I want to focus in this post on genes since they have been a big deal in my family and some of my extended family for a while. If I understand correctly, genes are proteins that run the enzymatic reactions needed for the many processes in the body. Chemical, physical, and emotional stressors impede these processes and/or slow them down. It makes sense to take away the stress on genes, or lower the stress level as much as possible.
For more than a decade, various family members have been concerned with the genes that when triggered manifest in gluten intolerance and celiac disease. I am one of those people as family members well know. These genes in my genetic makeup that were apparently triggered or impaired in my childhood are responsible for a lifetime of health difficulties.
Recently, being gluten free has become something of a fad. I saw some funny clips where people in Central Park were interviewed. The interviewer asked if they were gluten free and they said yes. Then they were asked what gluten was and they didn't really know.
Should everyone go gluten free? Some experts think so. Quoting from Betternutrition magazine, Nov. 2015: "Even if you do not have celiac disease, intolerances, allergies, or sensitivities, it may be beneficial to eat gluten-free. The body's natural response to gluten is inflammation in the intestine that can inhibit proper and efficient nutrient absorption, which in turn affects many physiological responses in the body, including reflexes, muscle response, physical endurance, stamina, muscle repair, and energy recovery. Research demonstrates that eating gluten-free can enhance athletic performance."
Should everyone go gluten free? People in my gene pool should seriously consider it! Maybe if we used "old wheat" of the time period when the Word of Wisdom was written most of us would tolerate it. But in this day and age of genetically modified foods, things are different.
However, being gluten free has it's own set of problems! One is that many people that go glutenfree are faced with poor alternative food choices. The other is that you lose a source of B vitamins. Taking that further, you lose the ability to produce certain beneficial bacteria in you gut. If you are gluten free, you should definitely be taking a probiotic containing Bifida strains.
That being said, the benefits of being gluten free far outweigh the obvious difficulties of the change in diet. Take from me! I know! That is why I am doing this post, with the hope that it will keep someone from having to suffer from all the myriad effects that gluten can have on a sensitive body and brain.
If you feel like you should go glutenfree but would like some definitive data supporting that choice, the best way I have found so far is enterolab.com. I recommend both the gene test and the gluten intolerance test.
'
.
Sunday, September 27, 2015
SUGAR: THE BIG, BAD WOLF THAT BLOWS DOWN OUR HOUSE OF HEALTH
I recently went to a professional development conference where the speaker presented hard evidence of the harmful effects of sugar. It scared me into writing this blog. I had been toying with the idea for a long time. During that time, I have collected articles, etc. with titles such as "Suicide by Sugar," "Sugar and How it Affects Your Life," "Sugar, the Great Food Deceiver," "Sugar's Hidden Danger"...You get the idea!
For a number of reasons I have been timid about speaking up on this subject. I have felt that I shouldn't stick my nose into others' nutritional business when I struggle so much myself with nutritional issues. However...as I listened to the presenter at this conference speak about the detrimental effects sugar has on children, I realized, "Uh-oh. I'm in the Early Childhood field and it is my business!" So here we go!
Lets start with the over consumption of sugar. The American Heart Association is now recommending that sugar consumption be limited for heart health. Conversely, sugar consumption is increasing in this nation to frightening levels. The AHA says that maximum consumption for men should be 9 teaspoons a day and 6 teaspoons a day for women. Obviously, sugar consumption for children should be less than that.
Most kids in the USA today are consuming 32 tsp. of sugar a day. Sugar consumption in 1999 was 158 pounds per person per year plus 20 pounds of corn syrup. I'm here to tell you it's not getting any better in 2015, but the effects over time are now evident! One in eight adults in the US have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, and diabetes is diagnosed in youth and children more often and at much younger ages.
Obesity is the most obvious symptom of sugar overdose. 2/3 of adults in the U.S. are obese (and the percentage is higher than that among us baby boomers). 1/3 of children in the U.S. are obese. The number of overweight children has tripled in a decade. 30% of obese children will develop diabetes. Half of U.S. children have chronic illness which includes diabetes.
Next, take a look at what sugar does in the brain. Brain imaging shows that a brain on sugar and a brain on cocaine are very similar. Sugar is addictive! Brain images the presenter showed us also show that sugar does the same thing to your brain that smoking, alcohol and cocaine do. You damage yourself with every dose of sugar. Here's the sugar addiction cycle:
1. You eat sugar and crave it because of its addictive properties.
2. Blood sugar levels spike
3. Blood sugar levels drop rapidly. Body craves the lost sugar high.
4. Hunger and cravings drive you to eat sugar and the cycle repeats itself.
This speaker delivered a great deal of research which shows that autism, ADHD, and other behavioral and health issues are increasing at an alarming rate and that individual children's challenges are more and more severe. She said, that while there is not one cause, sugar consumption factors in as part of the total load. It is a key player.
To summarize other harmful effects of sugar, I will quote from author, Linda Allen. "Sugar can also damage the immune system (compromising the defense against bacteria), produce an acidic stomach environment (ideal for Candida), cause food allergies...increase the size of the liver (disrupting it from filtering toxins and used hormones), and encourages the development of bad bacteria in the colon. This means more stress on the organs of elimination, more toxins and more yeast infection."
Now, just in case you are filled with despair because you are addicted to sugar and don't feel you can ever overcome it, here is a helpful suggestion from herbalogist, Roger Drummer. The first thing that goes into your mouth in the morning needs to be protein. Completely eliminate the typical sugary and refined carb breakfasts so many of us eat, especially children who prefer sugary cereals, pancakes, toast and jam. Protein is what the brain needs when you "break fast" and will reduce the cravings so that you can successfully avoid sugar the rest of the day. If you do give sugar to your children, at least balance it with protein.
Good luck. I know it's hard, but what is happening to all of us is scary. It is especially frightening to see what is happening to our children. I saw a tremendous difference years ago when I eliminated sugar from my children's diet. I know it helps!
I recently went to a professional development conference where the speaker presented hard evidence of the harmful effects of sugar. It scared me into writing this blog. I had been toying with the idea for a long time. During that time, I have collected articles, etc. with titles such as "Suicide by Sugar," "Sugar and How it Affects Your Life," "Sugar, the Great Food Deceiver," "Sugar's Hidden Danger"...You get the idea!
For a number of reasons I have been timid about speaking up on this subject. I have felt that I shouldn't stick my nose into others' nutritional business when I struggle so much myself with nutritional issues. However...as I listened to the presenter at this conference speak about the detrimental effects sugar has on children, I realized, "Uh-oh. I'm in the Early Childhood field and it is my business!" So here we go!
Lets start with the over consumption of sugar. The American Heart Association is now recommending that sugar consumption be limited for heart health. Conversely, sugar consumption is increasing in this nation to frightening levels. The AHA says that maximum consumption for men should be 9 teaspoons a day and 6 teaspoons a day for women. Obviously, sugar consumption for children should be less than that.
Most kids in the USA today are consuming 32 tsp. of sugar a day. Sugar consumption in 1999 was 158 pounds per person per year plus 20 pounds of corn syrup. I'm here to tell you it's not getting any better in 2015, but the effects over time are now evident! One in eight adults in the US have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, and diabetes is diagnosed in youth and children more often and at much younger ages.
Obesity is the most obvious symptom of sugar overdose. 2/3 of adults in the U.S. are obese (and the percentage is higher than that among us baby boomers). 1/3 of children in the U.S. are obese. The number of overweight children has tripled in a decade. 30% of obese children will develop diabetes. Half of U.S. children have chronic illness which includes diabetes.
Next, take a look at what sugar does in the brain. Brain imaging shows that a brain on sugar and a brain on cocaine are very similar. Sugar is addictive! Brain images the presenter showed us also show that sugar does the same thing to your brain that smoking, alcohol and cocaine do. You damage yourself with every dose of sugar. Here's the sugar addiction cycle:
1. You eat sugar and crave it because of its addictive properties.
2. Blood sugar levels spike
3. Blood sugar levels drop rapidly. Body craves the lost sugar high.
4. Hunger and cravings drive you to eat sugar and the cycle repeats itself.
This speaker delivered a great deal of research which shows that autism, ADHD, and other behavioral and health issues are increasing at an alarming rate and that individual children's challenges are more and more severe. She said, that while there is not one cause, sugar consumption factors in as part of the total load. It is a key player.
To summarize other harmful effects of sugar, I will quote from author, Linda Allen. "Sugar can also damage the immune system (compromising the defense against bacteria), produce an acidic stomach environment (ideal for Candida), cause food allergies...increase the size of the liver (disrupting it from filtering toxins and used hormones), and encourages the development of bad bacteria in the colon. This means more stress on the organs of elimination, more toxins and more yeast infection."
Now, just in case you are filled with despair because you are addicted to sugar and don't feel you can ever overcome it, here is a helpful suggestion from herbalogist, Roger Drummer. The first thing that goes into your mouth in the morning needs to be protein. Completely eliminate the typical sugary and refined carb breakfasts so many of us eat, especially children who prefer sugary cereals, pancakes, toast and jam. Protein is what the brain needs when you "break fast" and will reduce the cravings so that you can successfully avoid sugar the rest of the day. If you do give sugar to your children, at least balance it with protein.
Good luck. I know it's hard, but what is happening to all of us is scary. It is especially frightening to see what is happening to our children. I saw a tremendous difference years ago when I eliminated sugar from my children's diet. I know it helps!
Friday, July 24, 2015
NEWS FLASH! PROBIOTICS!!!
Industrialization has wiped beneficial microorganisms out of our gutscape. Urban dwellers, and really the whole industrialized world, have a deficit in our microbiomes or in other words, the microorganisms in our guts. This deficit may contribute to low-grade anxiety, psychological distress, less resiliency, negative mental outlook, etc. We can't overcome this deficit by simply taking probiotics but they can really make a difference. We also need to get outside and move. Connect. Eat real food.
A lady in our new ward subscribes to medical journals and was kind enough to give me this piece of information: Roots of Gluten Sensitivity is the title..
"Studies have shown a strong correlation between low levels of Bifidobacteria and the risk of children becoming susceptible to gluten sensitivity or even celiac disease, a more potent form of sensitivity.
Bifidobacteria suppresses the release of inflammatory cytokines from macrophages and microglia, the main culprit immune cells in celiac disease.
The link to Bifidobacteria is so strong that it has been proposed as a way to prevent the disorder in high-risk individuals and in animal models of gluten sensitivity as it reverses gluten damage in the gut.
Being on a gluten-free diet can improve most of the symptoms of celiac disease, but has no effect on levels of Bifidobacteria, which need to be increased.
Most cases of gluten sensitivity and even full blown celiac disease go undiagnosed for 20 years or more. This makes treatment with Bifidobacteria early in life even more important."
From the Blaylock Wellness Report, July 2016 p. 5
Industrialization has wiped beneficial microorganisms out of our gutscape. Urban dwellers, and really the whole industrialized world, have a deficit in our microbiomes or in other words, the microorganisms in our guts. This deficit may contribute to low-grade anxiety, psychological distress, less resiliency, negative mental outlook, etc. We can't overcome this deficit by simply taking probiotics but they can really make a difference. We also need to get outside and move. Connect. Eat real food.
A lady in our new ward subscribes to medical journals and was kind enough to give me this piece of information: Roots of Gluten Sensitivity is the title..
"Studies have shown a strong correlation between low levels of Bifidobacteria and the risk of children becoming susceptible to gluten sensitivity or even celiac disease, a more potent form of sensitivity.
Bifidobacteria suppresses the release of inflammatory cytokines from macrophages and microglia, the main culprit immune cells in celiac disease.
The link to Bifidobacteria is so strong that it has been proposed as a way to prevent the disorder in high-risk individuals and in animal models of gluten sensitivity as it reverses gluten damage in the gut.
Being on a gluten-free diet can improve most of the symptoms of celiac disease, but has no effect on levels of Bifidobacteria, which need to be increased.
Most cases of gluten sensitivity and even full blown celiac disease go undiagnosed for 20 years or more. This makes treatment with Bifidobacteria early in life even more important."
From the Blaylock Wellness Report, July 2016 p. 5
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
EMPOWER PEEPS, LISTEN UP!
FYI For a lot of people that take Empower, it is a long-term commitment. Why? Because Empower is food/nutrition and needs to be replaced daily just like other food we eat. Our brains, and I'm talking about the entire human race, are fueled by the food we eat. In order for Empower to work well, it needs to be taken every day in the dosage that your individual brain and make-up requires.
You are unique, your circumstances are different than anyone else. I personally can't determine what is best for you, but I am learning that there are some commonalities. The biggest one is that, whether or not you are on medication, you need to work up gradually to the dosage that is best for you.
As you work up gradually, start taking Empower with breakfast. Take one capsule at breakfast. The next day add a capsule at lunch. The third day take two at breakfast, then two at lunch. If taking more than four, then the next day add another at breakfast and another at lunch. If taking higher doses ( and you should consult with Support personnel to know correct amount for you) then add Empower at dinner but be sure to take that dose 4-5 hours before bedtime
Always take Empower with food, ideally with meals. Eat half of your meal, take the Empower, then eat the rest of your meal.
Eight is the highest dosage for most people. Support people I have talked to have recommended at least six a day for people in a high stress situation/lifestyle. Four is generally a good maintenance dose. A body can't absorb more than three at a time, so take that four in two doses. Also avoid taking it anywhere near bedtime for optimal sleep.
Most people don't get a stomach ache with Empower, and if they do, it is temporary. If you do get a stomach ache, you may need to back off and build up more slowly. In this and any other discomforts that you feel might be related to taking Empower, call Support and get their take on it.
If you take thyroid medication, you need to determine with help from Support what is the best time to take thyroid medication in relationship to Empower.
I was told that when pregnant and lactating mothers take Empower, it gives their baby's brain what it needs. The baby will be calmer, happier, and more intelligent. Support will help these mothers to know how to get started and dosage amounts. Eight is the recommended dosage for pregnancy. Pregnant mothers may want to take additional folate and iron.
Something to be aware of is that some supplements interfere with Empower and shouldn't be taken if you are taking Empower. Clear any herbs or supplements with the Support staff.
To smooth out any difficulties you may be experiencing, Support people may suggest additional products that are compatible with Empower. For example, I was told that Choline helps with racing thoughts. It calms the brain and doesn't interfere with Empower. It can be purchased at a health food store. It's not habit forming and you can safely take up to 2000 mg. a day if you spread it out.
In a previous post I talked about taking probiotics. You can and should take them along with Empower. Some people also require some anti-fungal use.
If you are on psychotropic medication and in the process of taking Empower to reduce or completely go off the meds, you will start feeling overmedicated as your brain heals. For most people this is a groggy, lethargic feeling or possibly agitation. Again, call Support to know how to reduce medication and get feeling good again.
Remember that these are only general guidelines. YOU might be different. Support personnel are awesome at helping you figure out what is best for you.
Does it sound like I am totally in support of Support. Yup! I am. I feel it is such a great resource! Are you concerned with the expense? All I can say is investing in brain health is one of the most important investments you could ever make. In my own experience, sometimes answers to prayers cost $. And it's worth it!!
Be well!
As you work up gradually, start taking Empower with breakfast. Take one capsule at breakfast. The next day add a capsule at lunch. The third day take two at breakfast, then two at lunch. If taking more than four, then the next day add another at breakfast and another at lunch. If taking higher doses ( and you should consult with Support personnel to know correct amount for you) then add Empower at dinner but be sure to take that dose 4-5 hours before bedtime
Always take Empower with food, ideally with meals. Eat half of your meal, take the Empower, then eat the rest of your meal.
Eight is the highest dosage for most people. Support people I have talked to have recommended at least six a day for people in a high stress situation/lifestyle. Four is generally a good maintenance dose. A body can't absorb more than three at a time, so take that four in two doses. Also avoid taking it anywhere near bedtime for optimal sleep.
Most people don't get a stomach ache with Empower, and if they do, it is temporary. If you do get a stomach ache, you may need to back off and build up more slowly. In this and any other discomforts that you feel might be related to taking Empower, call Support and get their take on it.
If you take thyroid medication, you need to determine with help from Support what is the best time to take thyroid medication in relationship to Empower.
I was told that when pregnant and lactating mothers take Empower, it gives their baby's brain what it needs. The baby will be calmer, happier, and more intelligent. Support will help these mothers to know how to get started and dosage amounts. Eight is the recommended dosage for pregnancy. Pregnant mothers may want to take additional folate and iron.
Something to be aware of is that some supplements interfere with Empower and shouldn't be taken if you are taking Empower. Clear any herbs or supplements with the Support staff.
To smooth out any difficulties you may be experiencing, Support people may suggest additional products that are compatible with Empower. For example, I was told that Choline helps with racing thoughts. It calms the brain and doesn't interfere with Empower. It can be purchased at a health food store. It's not habit forming and you can safely take up to 2000 mg. a day if you spread it out.
In a previous post I talked about taking probiotics. You can and should take them along with Empower. Some people also require some anti-fungal use.
If you are on psychotropic medication and in the process of taking Empower to reduce or completely go off the meds, you will start feeling overmedicated as your brain heals. For most people this is a groggy, lethargic feeling or possibly agitation. Again, call Support to know how to reduce medication and get feeling good again.
Remember that these are only general guidelines. YOU might be different. Support personnel are awesome at helping you figure out what is best for you.
Does it sound like I am totally in support of Support. Yup! I am. I feel it is such a great resource! Are you concerned with the expense? All I can say is investing in brain health is one of the most important investments you could ever make. In my own experience, sometimes answers to prayers cost $. And it's worth it!!
Be well!
Sunday, January 25, 2015
"INSTRUCTION MANUAL" FOR HAVING SUPPORT WHILE USING EMPOWERPLUS
Empowerplus is a powerful nutritional supplement specially formulated to nourish the brain and repair brain function without side effects. If you are on medication, it is vital that you work with support personel who have been trained to help you to either get off your medication or be able to take Empower along with medication. Even if you are not on a medication, order to gain the greatest benefit, it is vital that you are an informed user.
I am so grateful that I have had the Support program to help me and mine make our way through the difficult and bewildering tangle of symptoms and side effects caused by medications. I loved being able to access it on most business days. I talked many times to knowledgeable, professional Support personnel who have been trained to help individuals to use EMPowerplus effectively.
So these are my instructions:
1) Access Support for as long as you need it. In this post I will tell you how to do that. Let me emphasize again that if you are on psychotropic medications, you really must have Support! Remember too that Caffeine is essentially a medication, along with tea and certain herbs. Be aware that if you are taking thyroid along with this supplement there is a certain protocol. You may choose to replace medication with EMPowerplus. Support personnel will guide you in doing that safely.
2) Give it a good try, long enough to see results. If it stops working well or you experience any kind
of difficulties that you think might be related, call Support personnel.
You can buy Empowerplus from Truehope, the parent company, or through QScience, the direct marketing company that makes Empower available in the United States. It is also available through Amazon. If you are buying Empower, renamed Q96 because it is no longer a Truehope product, through QScience it is less expensive but does not offer any support.
Empowerplus is a powerful nutritional supplement specially formulated to nourish the brain and repair brain function without side effects. If you are on medication, it is vital that you work with support personel who have been trained to help you to either get off your medication or be able to take Empower along with medication. Even if you are not on a medication, order to gain the greatest benefit, it is vital that you are an informed user.
I am so grateful that I have had the Support program to help me and mine make our way through the difficult and bewildering tangle of symptoms and side effects caused by medications. I loved being able to access it on most business days. I talked many times to knowledgeable, professional Support personnel who have been trained to help individuals to use EMPowerplus effectively.
So these are my instructions:
1) Access Support for as long as you need it. In this post I will tell you how to do that. Let me emphasize again that if you are on psychotropic medications, you really must have Support! Remember too that Caffeine is essentially a medication, along with tea and certain herbs. Be aware that if you are taking thyroid along with this supplement there is a certain protocol. You may choose to replace medication with EMPowerplus. Support personnel will guide you in doing that safely.
2) Give it a good try, long enough to see results. If it stops working well or you experience any kind
of difficulties that you think might be related, call Support personnel.
You can buy Empowerplus from Truehope, the parent company, or through QScience, the direct marketing company that makes Empower available in the United States. It is also available through Amazon. If you are buying Empower, renamed Q96 because it is no longer a Truehope product, through QScience it is less expensive but does not offer any support.
There are two ways I know of to get the support you need. One way is from Truehope. To be eligible for Support from Truehope, you must order supplements from there. Empower from Truehope costs more than buying wholesale from QScience. Essentially, that cost difference pays for Truehope Support. The Truehope phone number is 1-888-878-3467.
The other way is through MicroNutrient Support Services Anyone can access this Service by calling 1-866-397-3116. They provide support IF you have bought and are using EMPower which is the Truehope product. They do not offer support if you are taking Q96. They offer a free assessment to help you determine if you need the Support Services and to inform you on the protocol for building up the dosage of Empower.
For this free assessment, register at www.micronutrient support.com. Fill out the registration to the point where it asks you to enter credit card info. Instead of doing that, exit out. Within 24 hours you can expect a phone call to complete the assessment. If it is determined that you need the Support, there is a monthly fee. As of Oct. 2020, the monthly cost is $34.85. I was told that most people don't require Support for a long period of time.
An option for buying is to join the QScience company. If you choose this option, you pay about $80 a year and buy the product wholesale on autoship, which is the lowest cost. Or you can be a preferred customer and get autoship. Or you can buy retail which costs the most. Go to my website wellonyourway.myqsciences.com to join and/or order product.
An option for buying is to join the QScience company. If you choose this option, you pay about $80 a year and buy the product wholesale on autoship, which is the lowest cost. Or you can be a preferred customer and get autoship. Or you can buy retail which costs the most. Go to my website wellonyourway.myqsciences.com to join and/or order product.
Sunday, July 27, 2014
EXPLORING: EMPOWER
EXPLORING THE POSSIBILITIES: EMPOWERPLUS
The road to wellness is a journey of exploration and learning which is never over. My experience has taught me that healthy brain and healthy digestion equal a healthy, happy and productive life.
Currently I am looking at the ways Empowerplus can aid mental health. 25 or more research studies show that use of Empowerplus corrects the unique imbalances and deficiencies associated with mental illness. In smaller amounts EMPower is effective for people whose lives are stressful, or who have mild depression or negative thinking.
How about anyone using Empower as their multivitamin? My husband does. Our friend whose job requires complex thinking all day long, says the his thinking is sharper since he started taking Empowerplus. I know someone else who sleeps better as long as he takes it. People who are under a lot of stress report that they are able to manage better while taking Empowerplus.
Empowerplus has four aspects that make it superior to generic multivitamins.
First, it is micronized, so the nutrients are small enough for the body to use. Because Empowerplus is micronutrients which are small enough to cross the blood-brain barrier, it can reach the sites in the brain where it is really needed.
Second, it is chelated. The nutrients are bound to a protein the body can use.
Third, it is balanced for maximum absorption. Vitamins and minerals depend on each other for absorption. For example, calcium needs vitamin D to be absorbed.
Fourth, Empowerplus can be taken in high enough doses to address deficiencies and promote proper metabolic functioning.
Personally I have worked a lot on my thinking. I have done a number of things to overcome negative thinking and improve flawed thought patterns. I know I am well because I have done this. However, I have also learned that it is difficult, and even sometimes impossible, to maintain those healthy ways of thinking if something is messing with my brain chemistry.
As women, we are universally hard on ourselves--some of us really excel at this. When you factor in some imbalances in the brain, it's likely to grow out of proportion. For me, it's been helpful to realize that it's all about brain chemicals--not character flaws.
Whether or not you are on psychiatric meds, but especially if you are, and want to take this supplement you MUST be informed about how to use it. That is why the two organizations that produce EMPowerplus, provide a very fine support system. It is composed of counselors who are trained and ready to help customers with the optimal dosage and schedule. They will listen with interest to your symptoms and concerns and advise you about the compatibility of medications and other supplements or herbs that you may be using. My next post will be an "instruction manual" for accessing this support.
The road to wellness is a journey of exploration and learning which is never over. My experience has taught me that healthy brain and healthy digestion equal a healthy, happy and productive life.
Currently I am looking at the ways Empowerplus can aid mental health. 25 or more research studies show that use of Empowerplus corrects the unique imbalances and deficiencies associated with mental illness. In smaller amounts EMPower is effective for people whose lives are stressful, or who have mild depression or negative thinking.
How about anyone using Empower as their multivitamin? My husband does. Our friend whose job requires complex thinking all day long, says the his thinking is sharper since he started taking Empowerplus. I know someone else who sleeps better as long as he takes it. People who are under a lot of stress report that they are able to manage better while taking Empowerplus.
Empowerplus has four aspects that make it superior to generic multivitamins.
First, it is micronized, so the nutrients are small enough for the body to use. Because Empowerplus is micronutrients which are small enough to cross the blood-brain barrier, it can reach the sites in the brain where it is really needed.
Second, it is chelated. The nutrients are bound to a protein the body can use.
Third, it is balanced for maximum absorption. Vitamins and minerals depend on each other for absorption. For example, calcium needs vitamin D to be absorbed.
Fourth, Empowerplus can be taken in high enough doses to address deficiencies and promote proper metabolic functioning.
Personally I have worked a lot on my thinking. I have done a number of things to overcome negative thinking and improve flawed thought patterns. I know I am well because I have done this. However, I have also learned that it is difficult, and even sometimes impossible, to maintain those healthy ways of thinking if something is messing with my brain chemistry.
As women, we are universally hard on ourselves--some of us really excel at this. When you factor in some imbalances in the brain, it's likely to grow out of proportion. For me, it's been helpful to realize that it's all about brain chemicals--not character flaws.
Whether or not you are on psychiatric meds, but especially if you are, and want to take this supplement you MUST be informed about how to use it. That is why the two organizations that produce EMPowerplus, provide a very fine support system. It is composed of counselors who are trained and ready to help customers with the optimal dosage and schedule. They will listen with interest to your symptoms and concerns and advise you about the compatibility of medications and other supplements or herbs that you may be using. My next post will be an "instruction manual" for accessing this support.
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
KIBBLES AND BITS, MICE AND PIGS
Kibbles and Bits, Mice and Pigs
When my friend's dog was nine years old, the pet showed signs of advancing age. She couldn't jump in the truck like she used to. Since she couldn't participate in outdoor family activities any more, she had to be left behind. Being sedentary, she started gaining weight. This dog had only eaten Kibbles and Bits for her entire life. She didn't like any other dog food. However, my friend thought a change of dog food might help her dog better endure advancing age and keep the dog's weight down.
My friend went to a store to look at a more expensive dog food, Science Diet, which is highly nutritious. Because it was twice the cost of K and B, my friend was hesitating to buy it. A clerk, noticing her indecision, touted the benefits of Science Diet. The clerk said Kibbles and Bits was addictive because of the sugary content.
My friend bought some Science Diet to try. Her dog wouldn't eat it. Deprived of Kibbles and Bits, the dog did go through withdrawal--noticeably shaking. My friend had to slowly wean her off of Kibbles and Bits so the dog wouldn't starve to death. She mixed the two dog foods--gradually increasing the nutritious one and decreasing K and B. The dog is on straight Science Diet now and still very much dislikes it. However, the dog is a bundle of energy now. She obviously feels much better. Her coat is shiney. She can jump in the truck again!
A local doctor told me about a study done with mice that showed a gut-brain connection. According to him, mice fed on a diet very much like that of the average American, were put in a pool of water with no way to get out. This produced anxiety in the mice and they "freaked out." When mice who had been on a regimen that included probiotics ( beneficial gut flora) were put in a pool of water with no way to get out, they remained calm. They swam around looking for a way out. A third group of mice were put on a regimen of probiotics and then vagotomized (severing of the vagus nerve which is a connection between gut and brain.)
These mice were put in a pool of water with no way out. They also "freaked out" in the same manner as the first group of mice.
Quoting from the study, "Accumulating clinical evidence suggests that probiotics can modulate the stress response and improve mood and anxiety symptoms in patients with chronic fatigue and irritable bowel syndrome." Admittedly this is a layperson's explanation of the study which can be found in PNAS, Sept.20, 2011, vol. 108, no. 38.
Now for the Pigs. Actually this is a story about humans--about a father with a desperate desire to save his children. Anthony Stephan's wife suffered from bipolar disorder which ultimately led to her suicide. A year later, two of Anthony's children were diagnosed with Bipolar I, the most severe form of the illness. This meant a future of hospitalizations, medications, and possible early death for both of them. Anthony began a search for a way to change this grim forecast. He searched medical journals, books, anything he could find. He prayed ceaselessly, "hoping God would hear his cries and have mercy on his broken family."
His answer came when he met David Hardy who had been an animal feed formulator for 20 years. When he heard Anthony's story, he said the behavior of Anthony's son sounded like a pig with ear-and-tail-biting syndrome. Hardy knew that some farmers had successfully eliminated this syndrome with nutritional supplementation. Anthony and David worked with scientists and manufacturers to create a version of this supplementation for human consumption. By using this supplement, called EMPower, Anthony's children recovered and resumed healthy lives. Since that time EMPower has helped thousands of people with mental illness. It also has helped alleviate migraines, seizures, dementia, hyperlipidemia, diabetic neuropathy, anemias, ADHD, ALS. Giving EMPower to rats is showing regrowth of brain cells. Many studies done on humans prove its remarkable effectiveness.
This supplement has mended the broken health of one of my family members and been helpful to others. It has been and is an answer to my prayers. We have purchased it for many years now. Even though it has been quite expensive, it has been worth every penny. Recently, a friend told me that EMPower could now be purchased for significantly less cost through a new company. Because this blog is not a sales venue, you can go to my website: https://wellonyourway.myqsciences.com to purchase and read my three other posts about Empower to learn more.
My stories about dogs, pigs and mice emphasis the importance of good nutrition (and probiotics) to our well being and health. Quality makes a difference. The balance and ratios of the nutrients is vitally important, especially for deficiencies related to mental illness. While you need to be informed about any supplement you take, this is especially true when you are using EMPower. Know that much help, support and information is available.
When my friend's dog was nine years old, the pet showed signs of advancing age. She couldn't jump in the truck like she used to. Since she couldn't participate in outdoor family activities any more, she had to be left behind. Being sedentary, she started gaining weight. This dog had only eaten Kibbles and Bits for her entire life. She didn't like any other dog food. However, my friend thought a change of dog food might help her dog better endure advancing age and keep the dog's weight down.
My friend went to a store to look at a more expensive dog food, Science Diet, which is highly nutritious. Because it was twice the cost of K and B, my friend was hesitating to buy it. A clerk, noticing her indecision, touted the benefits of Science Diet. The clerk said Kibbles and Bits was addictive because of the sugary content.
My friend bought some Science Diet to try. Her dog wouldn't eat it. Deprived of Kibbles and Bits, the dog did go through withdrawal--noticeably shaking. My friend had to slowly wean her off of Kibbles and Bits so the dog wouldn't starve to death. She mixed the two dog foods--gradually increasing the nutritious one and decreasing K and B. The dog is on straight Science Diet now and still very much dislikes it. However, the dog is a bundle of energy now. She obviously feels much better. Her coat is shiney. She can jump in the truck again!
A local doctor told me about a study done with mice that showed a gut-brain connection. According to him, mice fed on a diet very much like that of the average American, were put in a pool of water with no way to get out. This produced anxiety in the mice and they "freaked out." When mice who had been on a regimen that included probiotics ( beneficial gut flora) were put in a pool of water with no way to get out, they remained calm. They swam around looking for a way out. A third group of mice were put on a regimen of probiotics and then vagotomized (severing of the vagus nerve which is a connection between gut and brain.)
These mice were put in a pool of water with no way out. They also "freaked out" in the same manner as the first group of mice.
Quoting from the study, "Accumulating clinical evidence suggests that probiotics can modulate the stress response and improve mood and anxiety symptoms in patients with chronic fatigue and irritable bowel syndrome." Admittedly this is a layperson's explanation of the study which can be found in PNAS, Sept.20, 2011, vol. 108, no. 38.
Now for the Pigs. Actually this is a story about humans--about a father with a desperate desire to save his children. Anthony Stephan's wife suffered from bipolar disorder which ultimately led to her suicide. A year later, two of Anthony's children were diagnosed with Bipolar I, the most severe form of the illness. This meant a future of hospitalizations, medications, and possible early death for both of them. Anthony began a search for a way to change this grim forecast. He searched medical journals, books, anything he could find. He prayed ceaselessly, "hoping God would hear his cries and have mercy on his broken family."
His answer came when he met David Hardy who had been an animal feed formulator for 20 years. When he heard Anthony's story, he said the behavior of Anthony's son sounded like a pig with ear-and-tail-biting syndrome. Hardy knew that some farmers had successfully eliminated this syndrome with nutritional supplementation. Anthony and David worked with scientists and manufacturers to create a version of this supplementation for human consumption. By using this supplement, called EMPower, Anthony's children recovered and resumed healthy lives. Since that time EMPower has helped thousands of people with mental illness. It also has helped alleviate migraines, seizures, dementia, hyperlipidemia, diabetic neuropathy, anemias, ADHD, ALS. Giving EMPower to rats is showing regrowth of brain cells. Many studies done on humans prove its remarkable effectiveness.
This supplement has mended the broken health of one of my family members and been helpful to others. It has been and is an answer to my prayers. We have purchased it for many years now. Even though it has been quite expensive, it has been worth every penny. Recently, a friend told me that EMPower could now be purchased for significantly less cost through a new company. Because this blog is not a sales venue, you can go to my website: https://wellonyourway.myqsciences.com to purchase and read my three other posts about Empower to learn more.
My stories about dogs, pigs and mice emphasis the importance of good nutrition (and probiotics) to our well being and health. Quality makes a difference. The balance and ratios of the nutrients is vitally important, especially for deficiencies related to mental illness. While you need to be informed about any supplement you take, this is especially true when you are using EMPower. Know that much help, support and information is available.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
HEALTHY MAMA, HEALTHY CHILD
A few days ago I talked to one of my dearest friends in this world who was telling me that since they developed quick-rising yeast many people have been sensitive to breads. When I heard that, I was upset because here was another food substance that had been tampered with. Is anyone besides me disgruntled with the prevalence of GMO foods, i.e. wheat, soy, and corn? And what about all the additives and preservatives that make some processed foods synonymous with junk food.
Even though the challenge to feed our family healthy foods seems overwhelming, small changes can make a difference. I do think it is SO important to be aware and proactive as we make choices that affect our health and that of our children and unborn children. That is one of the overriding purposes of this blog--to inform others of healthy options. See also my first post on this same subject.
I have learned much about rearing children from the Parents as Teachers organization which provides support to parents of preschool children. I read in this organization's foundational curriculum that there are around 1000 environmental chemicals, sometimes called neurotoxins, that can interfere with brain development. Prenatal exposure to these toxins can be especially harmful.
This information urges parents to think about the safety of the foods their children eat. Avoid fish that is known to have high levels of mercury. Be aware that fruits and veggies are often treated with pesticides. Buying organic is a good option, but since that can be expensive, another solution is to wash and peel fresh produce before eating it.
I'm hearing from several directions to avoid buying bottled water. Parents as Teachers info says to fill and reuse your own child-safe cups and bottles instead. Call your city water department to find out if your municipal water contains high levels of chemicals. [That includes chlorine. Is your tap water highly chlorinated?] If you have a well, get your water tested to make sure it is safe.
Avoid buying foods in #3, #6, and #7 plastics which contain harmful contaminates that seep into food. Reheating food in plastic accelerates this process. Quoting Parents as Teachers, "Older baby bottles and sippy cups may contain a harmful chemical called BPA. If you're not sure about the ones your child uses, throw them out and buy new ones."
Discard mercury thermometers, paint, fluorescent light tubes, and pesticides at a hazardous waste collection center. Put away foods, fill cracks around doors and windows, and cover garbage containers to discourage insect pests in your home so you don't have to use chemicals to kill them that children might be exposed to. If your yard is treated with pesticides or fertilizers, have everyone remove their shoes when coming inside so residues aren't tracked into your home. Have children wash hands after playing outside and before eating.
Mothers, especially pregnant ones, need to take the same precautions for themselves that they take for
their children. In the book, "Healthy Child, Healthy World", Christopher Gaugin lists several things that expectant mothers can do to minimize their own exposures and that of their unborn baby.
1. EAT INTELLIGENTLY. "Cut out caffeine and alcohol. Eat a protein-rich diet with a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Take prenatal vitamins with folic acid to protect against neural-tube defects and get enough omega-3. And for heaven's sake, don't smoke." He also suggests buying organic foods or at least washing and peeling fruits and veggies.
Too much soy is harmful to developing babies. Trim fat from meat and buy wild caught fish. Keep kitchens and food prep as bacteria free as possible. Pregnant women should not change kitty litter boxes. Side-step junk food and processed food. Avoid MSG, nitrates, artificial sweeteners and colors.
2. CLEAN WATER. Run cold water for a few minutes in the a.m. Have your water tested for lead. Pipes in older houses are especially suspect. Filter it, at least with a basic tap filter or picture. Cut back on bottled water. [I will do a post on water quality soon.]
3. BEAUTY PRODUCTS. Nix the nail polish. Choose safe fragrances. Opt for highlights instead of hair dyes.
4. CLEAN AIR. Use full-service gas pumps. Banish smokers. Clean green. Freshen air naturally. Try green plants. Ventilate, ventilate, ventilate.
5. RENOVATE EARLY AND SAFELY. Safe paint, safe flooring.
Does this sound overwhelming? Sign up at healthychild.org for free emails and info to help you navigate through pregnancy and beyond.
Even though the challenge to feed our family healthy foods seems overwhelming, small changes can make a difference. I do think it is SO important to be aware and proactive as we make choices that affect our health and that of our children and unborn children. That is one of the overriding purposes of this blog--to inform others of healthy options. See also my first post on this same subject.
I have learned much about rearing children from the Parents as Teachers organization which provides support to parents of preschool children. I read in this organization's foundational curriculum that there are around 1000 environmental chemicals, sometimes called neurotoxins, that can interfere with brain development. Prenatal exposure to these toxins can be especially harmful.
This information urges parents to think about the safety of the foods their children eat. Avoid fish that is known to have high levels of mercury. Be aware that fruits and veggies are often treated with pesticides. Buying organic is a good option, but since that can be expensive, another solution is to wash and peel fresh produce before eating it.
I'm hearing from several directions to avoid buying bottled water. Parents as Teachers info says to fill and reuse your own child-safe cups and bottles instead. Call your city water department to find out if your municipal water contains high levels of chemicals. [That includes chlorine. Is your tap water highly chlorinated?] If you have a well, get your water tested to make sure it is safe.
Avoid buying foods in #3, #6, and #7 plastics which contain harmful contaminates that seep into food. Reheating food in plastic accelerates this process. Quoting Parents as Teachers, "Older baby bottles and sippy cups may contain a harmful chemical called BPA. If you're not sure about the ones your child uses, throw them out and buy new ones."
Discard mercury thermometers, paint, fluorescent light tubes, and pesticides at a hazardous waste collection center. Put away foods, fill cracks around doors and windows, and cover garbage containers to discourage insect pests in your home so you don't have to use chemicals to kill them that children might be exposed to. If your yard is treated with pesticides or fertilizers, have everyone remove their shoes when coming inside so residues aren't tracked into your home. Have children wash hands after playing outside and before eating.
Mothers, especially pregnant ones, need to take the same precautions for themselves that they take for
their children. In the book, "Healthy Child, Healthy World", Christopher Gaugin lists several things that expectant mothers can do to minimize their own exposures and that of their unborn baby.
1. EAT INTELLIGENTLY. "Cut out caffeine and alcohol. Eat a protein-rich diet with a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Take prenatal vitamins with folic acid to protect against neural-tube defects and get enough omega-3. And for heaven's sake, don't smoke." He also suggests buying organic foods or at least washing and peeling fruits and veggies.
Too much soy is harmful to developing babies. Trim fat from meat and buy wild caught fish. Keep kitchens and food prep as bacteria free as possible. Pregnant women should not change kitty litter boxes. Side-step junk food and processed food. Avoid MSG, nitrates, artificial sweeteners and colors.
2. CLEAN WATER. Run cold water for a few minutes in the a.m. Have your water tested for lead. Pipes in older houses are especially suspect. Filter it, at least with a basic tap filter or picture. Cut back on bottled water. [I will do a post on water quality soon.]
3. BEAUTY PRODUCTS. Nix the nail polish. Choose safe fragrances. Opt for highlights instead of hair dyes.
4. CLEAN AIR. Use full-service gas pumps. Banish smokers. Clean green. Freshen air naturally. Try green plants. Ventilate, ventilate, ventilate.
5. RENOVATE EARLY AND SAFELY. Safe paint, safe flooring.
Does this sound overwhelming? Sign up at healthychild.org for free emails and info to help you navigate through pregnancy and beyond.
Sunday, April 14, 2013
WHO SWITCHED OFF MY BRAIN
Recently I read a book called "Who Switched Off My Brain." Dr. Caroline Leaf attempted to put technical explanations into laymen's terms. While there was a good deal that she wrote that needed further clarification for me, it offered scientific proof of what I have been learning from several sources.
The message of the book is that it is possible and vital to control your thought life. What follows in this post is a lot quoted from her book and some paraphrased with the intent to convey good information in an understandable way.
"What's in a thought? More than you probably know. Every thought has a corresponding electro-chemical reaction in your brain...When you feel sad, afraid, angry or hopeful, your brain releases different types of chemicals. Depending on whether or not these emotions are toxic to your body, the chemicals will either help you or harm you. If they are harmful, they create conditions for a host of health problems that will manifest in both the body and the mind...studies conclusively link chronic diseases to an epidemic of toxic emotions in our culture."
There are two important groups of emotions: positive faith-based emotions and negative fear-based emotions. That's kind of a no-brainer, but what I didn't realize is the extent of chemical and electrical representation that these emotions have in our bodies. They "directly impact bodily function...Your emotions are biomolecular, literally cellular signals that translate information into a physical reality" We are talking about actual molecules called "information molecules" that travel around your body affecting and influencing the various systems in an orderly sequence.
In a nutshell, the power of emotions over the whole body lies in how they "integrate systems and coordinate mental processes and biology to create behavior." On a cellullar level, positive emotions create health. Negative emotions are disruptive, damaging and destructive.
All negative emotions evolve out of fear. Fear automatically puts the body into stress mode. Stress is perfectly acceptable and manageable for the body as long as it doesn't last too long. However, if your body stays under a barrage of negative stimulation, toxic waste begins to build up. When you are stuck in the stress mode, certain stress chemicals begin to build up and wreak havoc on your health in body and mind.
A main stress chemical is cortisol which has negative effects when it is chronically elevated. Blood sugar levels rise and triglycerides and cholestorol increase in the bloodstream. This may cause the body to gain weight. Over time, high cortisol depletes the bones of vital minerals. Dendrites where memories are stored in the brain shrink temporarily, causing mental blocks--"going blank." Toxic waste levels continue to build.
Finally, adrenals become exhausted. You are really sick.
FORTUNATELY, IT IS NEVER TOO LATE TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT WHAT IS GOING ON IN YOUR BODY AND YOUR MIND. I will list the twelve techniques the author give us to change your thinking, but first I think it is important to discuss suppressed emotion.
Suppressed emotional pain turns into lingering physical pain. There may be times when you need to repress emotions long enough to take care of pressing needs. You may not have time to deal with toxic thoughts and feelings immediately, but dealing with them is a necessity. The SOONER the better. You need to make time! You can bury your emotions, but you need to know that you are burying something that remains alive.
Your mind perceives these living emotions, even though suppressed, as fear which starts the fight and flight cycle again, keeping you in stress mode. Repressing emotions destabilizes your brain's natural chemistry. All thoughts and feelings eventually come out and along the way express themselves in different attitudes: perfectionism, a desire for control, self-doubt, cynicism, criticism, promiscuity, and a tendency to overreact.
These are all mindsets--emotional strongholds that influence behaviors and if not dealt with, will take over thought life. In doing so, they will rob you of the joy and peace of mind that is your birthright. Emotions by their very nature are meant to be felt and expressed, They are a moving, dynamic, pulsing mass of electromagnetic and chemical reactions. They do not disappear or die. Somewhere, sometime, they will erupt unless given an outlet. You must deal with them because the more you try to suppress them, the harder they try to be heard.
Okay. Here are the TWELVE TECHNIQUES TO CHANGE YOUR THINKING.
Step one: CONSCIOUSLY CONTROL YOUR THOUGHTS. This is not just the first step--it is the main step. Thoughts do cause illness and should be studied and controlled. IF THEY ARE POWERFUL ENOUGH TO MAKE US SICK, THEY ARE POWERFUL ENOUGH TO MAKE US HEALTHY AS WELL.
Consciously engage the information coming into your brain and think about it purposely. Make a conscious decision to accept a good thought or reject a thought that is bad for you. Never let thoughts just wander through your mind unchecked. If they are toxic, they will eventually make you sick. Correct positive thinking, on the other hand, will actually grow your brain.
Step two: FRAME YOUR WORLD WITH YOUR WORDS. This is more than just talking positively. It involves replacing negative thinking through a right attitude shift. Do this by acknowledging that an issue exists, reflecting on what is wrong with it, considering how you can cope with it, asking whether you can do it alone or if you need help.
Step three: EXPRESS EMOTIONS appropriately in an environment that is safe, accepting and non-judgmental.
Step four: TAKE RESPONSIBILITY AND TAKE CONTROL. Work to be aware of past experiences and conditioning that you need to let go of. You may need help in the form of counseling, meditation and prayer. Pay attention to your dreams. They may help you sort out your emotional life.
Step five: FORGIVE.
Step six: LOVE. Make an intentional choice to love others no matter what.
Step seven: GIVE AND RECEIVE LOVING TOUCH
Step eight: PLAY AND LAUGH. This is the cheapest, easiest, and most effective way to control toxic thoughs and emotions and their toxic stress reaction.
Step nine: EXERCISE. Find a form of exercise you enjoy.
Step ten: DIET. You need to eat well to feed your brain.
Step eleven: DEVELOP YOUR SPIRITUAL LIFE.
Step twelve: RELAX. This is a necessity! Get your sleep--it's the ultimate relaxer.
The message of the book is that it is possible and vital to control your thought life. What follows in this post is a lot quoted from her book and some paraphrased with the intent to convey good information in an understandable way.
"What's in a thought? More than you probably know. Every thought has a corresponding electro-chemical reaction in your brain...When you feel sad, afraid, angry or hopeful, your brain releases different types of chemicals. Depending on whether or not these emotions are toxic to your body, the chemicals will either help you or harm you. If they are harmful, they create conditions for a host of health problems that will manifest in both the body and the mind...studies conclusively link chronic diseases to an epidemic of toxic emotions in our culture."
There are two important groups of emotions: positive faith-based emotions and negative fear-based emotions. That's kind of a no-brainer, but what I didn't realize is the extent of chemical and electrical representation that these emotions have in our bodies. They "directly impact bodily function...Your emotions are biomolecular, literally cellular signals that translate information into a physical reality" We are talking about actual molecules called "information molecules" that travel around your body affecting and influencing the various systems in an orderly sequence.
In a nutshell, the power of emotions over the whole body lies in how they "integrate systems and coordinate mental processes and biology to create behavior." On a cellullar level, positive emotions create health. Negative emotions are disruptive, damaging and destructive.
All negative emotions evolve out of fear. Fear automatically puts the body into stress mode. Stress is perfectly acceptable and manageable for the body as long as it doesn't last too long. However, if your body stays under a barrage of negative stimulation, toxic waste begins to build up. When you are stuck in the stress mode, certain stress chemicals begin to build up and wreak havoc on your health in body and mind.
A main stress chemical is cortisol which has negative effects when it is chronically elevated. Blood sugar levels rise and triglycerides and cholestorol increase in the bloodstream. This may cause the body to gain weight. Over time, high cortisol depletes the bones of vital minerals. Dendrites where memories are stored in the brain shrink temporarily, causing mental blocks--"going blank." Toxic waste levels continue to build.
Finally, adrenals become exhausted. You are really sick.
FORTUNATELY, IT IS NEVER TOO LATE TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT WHAT IS GOING ON IN YOUR BODY AND YOUR MIND. I will list the twelve techniques the author give us to change your thinking, but first I think it is important to discuss suppressed emotion.
Suppressed emotional pain turns into lingering physical pain. There may be times when you need to repress emotions long enough to take care of pressing needs. You may not have time to deal with toxic thoughts and feelings immediately, but dealing with them is a necessity. The SOONER the better. You need to make time! You can bury your emotions, but you need to know that you are burying something that remains alive.
Your mind perceives these living emotions, even though suppressed, as fear which starts the fight and flight cycle again, keeping you in stress mode. Repressing emotions destabilizes your brain's natural chemistry. All thoughts and feelings eventually come out and along the way express themselves in different attitudes: perfectionism, a desire for control, self-doubt, cynicism, criticism, promiscuity, and a tendency to overreact.
These are all mindsets--emotional strongholds that influence behaviors and if not dealt with, will take over thought life. In doing so, they will rob you of the joy and peace of mind that is your birthright. Emotions by their very nature are meant to be felt and expressed, They are a moving, dynamic, pulsing mass of electromagnetic and chemical reactions. They do not disappear or die. Somewhere, sometime, they will erupt unless given an outlet. You must deal with them because the more you try to suppress them, the harder they try to be heard.
Okay. Here are the TWELVE TECHNIQUES TO CHANGE YOUR THINKING.
Step one: CONSCIOUSLY CONTROL YOUR THOUGHTS. This is not just the first step--it is the main step. Thoughts do cause illness and should be studied and controlled. IF THEY ARE POWERFUL ENOUGH TO MAKE US SICK, THEY ARE POWERFUL ENOUGH TO MAKE US HEALTHY AS WELL.
Consciously engage the information coming into your brain and think about it purposely. Make a conscious decision to accept a good thought or reject a thought that is bad for you. Never let thoughts just wander through your mind unchecked. If they are toxic, they will eventually make you sick. Correct positive thinking, on the other hand, will actually grow your brain.
Step two: FRAME YOUR WORLD WITH YOUR WORDS. This is more than just talking positively. It involves replacing negative thinking through a right attitude shift. Do this by acknowledging that an issue exists, reflecting on what is wrong with it, considering how you can cope with it, asking whether you can do it alone or if you need help.
Step three: EXPRESS EMOTIONS appropriately in an environment that is safe, accepting and non-judgmental.
Step four: TAKE RESPONSIBILITY AND TAKE CONTROL. Work to be aware of past experiences and conditioning that you need to let go of. You may need help in the form of counseling, meditation and prayer. Pay attention to your dreams. They may help you sort out your emotional life.
Step five: FORGIVE.
Step six: LOVE. Make an intentional choice to love others no matter what.
Step seven: GIVE AND RECEIVE LOVING TOUCH
Step eight: PLAY AND LAUGH. This is the cheapest, easiest, and most effective way to control toxic thoughs and emotions and their toxic stress reaction.
Step nine: EXERCISE. Find a form of exercise you enjoy.
Step ten: DIET. You need to eat well to feed your brain.
Step eleven: DEVELOP YOUR SPIRITUAL LIFE.
Step twelve: RELAX. This is a necessity! Get your sleep--it's the ultimate relaxer.
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
HEALTHY CHILD, HEALTHY WORLD
We drove through "mists of darkness" as we traveled to Utah this past weekend. Because of an inversion caused by weather and pollution, air quality is poor in the Salt Lake City area. Before we reached Tremonton, about an hour or so away from Salt Lake, there were smoggy, foggy patches hanging around. We stopped in Logan to visit family. On that day, according to my sister-in-law, Logan was officially rated top in the nation for poor air quality because of this inversion. It forces them to stay inside much of the time until it lifts.
I was feeling good about living where the air quality is better until I remembered that where I live, we get dusted with pesticides along with the crops. Most anywhere we choose to live has a challenged environment. Our children and grandchildren are growing up on an earth which is in many places drenched with chemicals and toxins. Our food, water, shampoo, soap, deodorant, cosmetics, and cleaning supplies most likely contain harmful substances.
Isn't it time to create for ourselves and our loved ones an environment that's less poisonous? We can't all up and move to some remote spot on the planet. What can we do? Fortunately there is a whole world of good options.
Because of my concern for children and my interest in all things wellness, I am drawn to the non-profit organization, Healthy Child, Healthy World, which I feel is a great resource. It advocates for a cleaner and healthier environment. This organization suggests five easy steps to a healthy world. Here they are, along with [commentary] from me.
1. Avoid Pesticides
Pesticides have been linked to a wide range of health problems. Non-toxic solutions are safer and just as
effective.
[In 2005, the Environmental Working Group detected 297 substances, including mercury,
flame retardants, PFCs, Scotchguard, Teflon and rocket fuel, in the umbilical cord blood from ten
randomly selected newborns. All of the toxic substances were found in each of the babies tested.
Mitochondrial dysfunction leading to symptoms observed in autism have been linked to environmental
triggers, including aluminum, pesticides and other sources of pollution." I'm quoting from a book by
Lee R. Chasen. So how do so many toxic substances get in umbilical cord blood?]
2. Use Non-toxic Products
Many chemicals used in cleaning products, personal care products, and furnishings have negative impact
our health. Fortunately there are many safer alternatives.
[Recently I learned about using Norwex products as a way to super clean your home without using chemicals. Liza, who told me about these products, was kind enough to email me her story:
Two years ago I made one of the most important decisions I have ever made. My husband and I were having some major concerns with my nine-year-old son. He was exhibiting many traits of Asperger's syndrome. Even though he was doing poorly in school, not socializing normally, and having daily meltdowns, my biggest concern was his hatred for himself and others. He simply was mean and unhappy. One night, after a long power struggle with my son, I pled with God for help. This was a different kind of prayer. Not one of self pity for my hard life but one of deep concern for my child's well being. I simply said, "How do I help him be happy?" The answer came clearly to my mind "Change his diet."
indoor air quality.
[Dust, pet dander, pollen and odors are typically in household air. Mold, mildew, and dust mites may be present. See the Nikken website in the sidebar for some high quality solutions for a more healthy home environment.]
4. Eat Healthy
Today's modern diet is grown, processed and packaged using toxic materials. Pesticides, bacteria,
industrial chemicals, and food additives all find their way into children's foods, often at levels that can be
harmful for them. Shifting to healthier foods is easy, and can even save you money!
[I have heard from several sources that there is more incidence of gluten intolerance and celiac
disease because wheat has been genetically modified in a major way. If you, like me, are impacted in
this way you will love my sister's cookbook. See the sidebar for her blogspot.]
5. Be Wise With Plastics
Many common plastics release harmful chemicals into what we eat, drink and breathe.
[ Did you know that heating up food covered with plastic wrap or that is in plastic containers in the microwave can be toxic and that leaving bottled water in a hot car has a similar effect? Freezing water in plastic bottles releases a toxin. That surprised me!]
Last, but most importantly, the most helpful website I can give you is www.lds.org. Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) live a health code that is 180 years old this February. We are promised that if we live this code, we will find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures. We will be able to run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint. That is wellness!
Soon I will do a post titled "Who Switched Off My Brain."
I was feeling good about living where the air quality is better until I remembered that where I live, we get dusted with pesticides along with the crops. Most anywhere we choose to live has a challenged environment. Our children and grandchildren are growing up on an earth which is in many places drenched with chemicals and toxins. Our food, water, shampoo, soap, deodorant, cosmetics, and cleaning supplies most likely contain harmful substances.
Isn't it time to create for ourselves and our loved ones an environment that's less poisonous? We can't all up and move to some remote spot on the planet. What can we do? Fortunately there is a whole world of good options.
Because of my concern for children and my interest in all things wellness, I am drawn to the non-profit organization, Healthy Child, Healthy World, which I feel is a great resource. It advocates for a cleaner and healthier environment. This organization suggests five easy steps to a healthy world. Here they are, along with [commentary] from me.
1. Avoid Pesticides
Pesticides have been linked to a wide range of health problems. Non-toxic solutions are safer and just as
effective.
[In 2005, the Environmental Working Group detected 297 substances, including mercury,
flame retardants, PFCs, Scotchguard, Teflon and rocket fuel, in the umbilical cord blood from ten
randomly selected newborns. All of the toxic substances were found in each of the babies tested.
Mitochondrial dysfunction leading to symptoms observed in autism have been linked to environmental
triggers, including aluminum, pesticides and other sources of pollution." I'm quoting from a book by
Lee R. Chasen. So how do so many toxic substances get in umbilical cord blood?]
2. Use Non-toxic Products
Many chemicals used in cleaning products, personal care products, and furnishings have negative impact
our health. Fortunately there are many safer alternatives.
[Recently I learned about using Norwex products as a way to super clean your home without using chemicals. Liza, who told me about these products, was kind enough to email me her story:
Two years ago I made one of the most important decisions I have ever made. My husband and I were having some major concerns with my nine-year-old son. He was exhibiting many traits of Asperger's syndrome. Even though he was doing poorly in school, not socializing normally, and having daily meltdowns, my biggest concern was his hatred for himself and others. He simply was mean and unhappy. One night, after a long power struggle with my son, I pled with God for help. This was a different kind of prayer. Not one of self pity for my hard life but one of deep concern for my child's well being. I simply said, "How do I help him be happy?" The answer came clearly to my mind "Change his diet."
After much research and continued guidance from heaven, I knew what I needed to do. Throw all my food and chemical cleaners away! I learned about the harmful effects artificial chemicals, preservatives, food dyes, and chemical cleaners have on our body systems. I could no longer contaminate my home with cleaning chemicals or feed my family poison and watch their body chemistry react in dysfunctional ways. I was determined to help my child. I took one full day and literally emptied my pantry, cupboards, fridge and freezer of anything not on my list of "safe" foods. I took all my harsh chemical cleaners to the trash. With empty shelves that needed filling I set to work in buying only food that was ALL natural, organic and free of anything artificial. I knew we needed to do this as a whole family in order to accomplish my desired results and follow the divine guidance I had received. I switched all my cleaning supplies over to Norwex products which allows me to disinfect my home simply using water and antibacterial microfiber cloths.
Many children go through a detox period for the first few weeks so I knew I would not see results immediately. I gave myself one month to experiment with this new way of cleaning and feeding my family. After only three weeks, we saw major improvements in not only my son but the rest of us as well. I no longer struggle with PMS, my husband's depression has improved, my daughter can hold her body still at dinner time, and we have, overall, more harmony in the home. I am pleased to say my son (now 11 yrs.) is succeeding in school, thriving socially, rarely has meltdowns, and is happier than he has ever been! See Liza's websites in the side bar.]
3. Clean Up Indoor Air
People in the U.S. spend about 90% of their time indoors where the air is typically more polluted than
outdoor air.[--some of Utah being an exception right now.] Luckily it is typically very easy to improvePeople in the U.S. spend about 90% of their time indoors where the air is typically more polluted than
indoor air quality.
[Dust, pet dander, pollen and odors are typically in household air. Mold, mildew, and dust mites may be present. See the Nikken website in the sidebar for some high quality solutions for a more healthy home environment.]
4. Eat Healthy
Today's modern diet is grown, processed and packaged using toxic materials. Pesticides, bacteria,
industrial chemicals, and food additives all find their way into children's foods, often at levels that can be
harmful for them. Shifting to healthier foods is easy, and can even save you money!
[I have heard from several sources that there is more incidence of gluten intolerance and celiac
disease because wheat has been genetically modified in a major way. If you, like me, are impacted in
this way you will love my sister's cookbook. See the sidebar for her blogspot.]
5. Be Wise With Plastics
Many common plastics release harmful chemicals into what we eat, drink and breathe.
[ Did you know that heating up food covered with plastic wrap or that is in plastic containers in the microwave can be toxic and that leaving bottled water in a hot car has a similar effect? Freezing water in plastic bottles releases a toxin. That surprised me!]
Last, but most importantly, the most helpful website I can give you is www.lds.org. Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) live a health code that is 180 years old this February. We are promised that if we live this code, we will find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures. We will be able to run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint. That is wellness!
Soon I will do a post titled "Who Switched Off My Brain."
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