Remember learning about 'cause & effect in school? Simple concept: An action or event occurs, resulting in a certain effect. You drive over the speed limit-->you get a ticket...you eat a pint of ice cream every evening-->you gain weight...you forget to take your puppy outside-->he poops on the floor (personal experience with that one!)
How about applying that simple concept to our health---especially when we're looking at common health challenges? Standard protocol (ie. Western Medicine) often tends to overlook this step, with a prescription or procedure being recommended for specific symptoms or complaints. Examples include pain pills for an aching back, antacids for heartburn, antidepressants for poor sleep, laxatives for constipation, steroid injections for inflammed joints/body parts, high blood pressure medications for high blood pressure...the list goes on. A person can get some relief with these measures, as long as the medication continues---
Here's a thought: How about figuring out the cause of the health challenge & addressing that as a way to get rid of the symptoms?
Below are examples of what it could look like:
Aching back: Chiropractic adjustment for alignment, massage therapy for muscle relaxation, magnetic technology to help with relaxation & minimize the ache, & specific back exercised to strengthen the affected muscles & prevent further problems
Heartburn: Drinking half your body weight in ounces each day of good quality (slightly alkaline is best) use of far-infrared comforter at night when sleeping (Remember, heartburn is a symptom of dehydration)
Poor sleep: Counseling on bedtime routines that promote good sleep, reducing/avoiding caffeine, good quality calcium supplement at bedtime, magnetic sleep technology for deep, quality sleep
Constipation: Nutrition counseling on high fiber diet that minimizes processed foods, adequate water intake, encouragement of regular exercise, probiotics/prebiotics to help restore 'flora' of the gut
Inflamed joints: Adequate water intake, use of safe & natural technologies such as far-infrared and magnetics to work with the body in healing itself, Bio-replenishment products to help the body heal itself
High blood pressure: Nutrition counseling on healthy eating with focus of reaching & maintaining ideal weight, regular exercise, adequate water intake, good quality sleep (BP meds may need to be a short-term 'fix' while lifestyle issues like these are addressed)
I realize this requires a whole new way of thinking for some of us---and isn't it about time to look at some new (SAFE & EFFECTIVE) ways of thinking, especially when we're talking about our health and our family's health! Food for thought, hmmm? I look forward to your comments. I have previous blogs that explain some of the technologies mentioned in this one if you have questions.
Be Well!
Sana
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Sunday, July 26, 2009
The Good, The Bad & The Ugly...Bacteria, that is...
My sweet husband is a Clint Eastwood fan & is trying to impart his enjoyment of Clint's old western classics on our son, age 13...not sure it's working, though! One of my husband's favorites is 'The Good, The Bad & The Ugly'---and as they (husband & son) were watching it last night, my quirky brain started thinking about bacteria (strange, I know!)---specifically the bacteria that lives in our GI tract (our gut, in other words). I realize many of you have heard of the 'good bacteria' and the 'bad bacteria' in our gut---and no, I honestly don't think there is a category of 'ugly' bacteria, but I'm sure some of it has to be not that pretty...hence, ugly!
God created our amazing bodies to have a certain balance of bacteria in our GI tract. The 'good' bacteria help us absorb food and minerals, along with manufacturing vitamin K & some B vitamins. Some names of these beneficial bacteria you may have heard of include acidophilus and bifidobacterium. When our gut is healthy, the growth of good bacteria helps to crowd out disease-causing bacteria and make conditions unfavorable for their growth. A very important function they perform is helping the colon maintain a proper pH or acid-base balance. (Wow, it seems like pH balance is HUGE! See related articles on body pH and alkalinity in my past blogs).
Unlike the good bacteria, we don't want the 'bad' (disease-causing) bacteria, like certain strains of E. coli, C. diff. and streptococci-to take up residence inside our bodies. Besides making us sick, bad bacteria can also act to putrefy meat and other food left waiting to be digested in the colon. The 'bad' bacteria can produce enzymes that convert chemicals to carcinogens (cancer-causing agents). They also create free radicals (which can promote cancer growth). People who eat diets that are high in meat and low in fiber are at increased risk for colon cancer due in part to this fact.
One of the most common ways for our good/bad bacterial balance in the gut to become out of balance is with the use of antibiotics. Antibiotics are prescribed for dozens of common ailments, which, in the process of killing the bacteria for which they are prescribed, also kill off the friendly bacteria in our intestines. This can severely impair digestion and absorption of nutrients at a time when our body needs them most. I fully realize that antibiotics are necessary at times--even life-saving at times. The key is appropriate use of antibiotics, since increasing numbers of studies are showing that antibiotic treatment, especially when prolonged or repeated, can have a negative impact on beneficial bacteria that live in the gut.
The 'good' bacteria in our gut are called probiotics (meaning 'for life'). 'Bad' bacteria are harmful to our health. These are the bacteria that often require the need for antibiotics (meaning 'against life').
Lactobacillus acidophilus, commonly called acidophilus, and Bifidobacterium bifidum are 'good' bacteria found in our gut. They are also the most common types of probiotic supplements. Probiotics are also found naturally in fermented foods, like yogurt with live cultures, kefir, miso and sauerkraut. Probiotic supplements (available in capsules, liquids and powders) provide a large dose of bacteria beneficial to the gastrointestinal tract, and therefore, overall immunity. These 'good' bacteria crowd out disease-causing microorganisms and often improve bowel regularity.
Prebiotics are substances that feed and promote the growth of friendly probiotics. The two most common prebiotics are whey and fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS). Whey is the liquid that remains after the curd is removed from milk when making cheese. Primarily water, whey also contains minerals (potassium, calcium and phosphorus), lactose, fat and water-soluble vitamins. Fructo-oligosaccharides or "FOS" are naturally occurring short chains of fructose (fruit sugar)--found in small amounts in fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, onions, barley, wheat, rye, chicory root, garlic, Jerusalem artichokes, bananas, and honey.
A powerful, natural occuring prebiotic is lactoferrin. Lactoferrin also has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral effects. My family & I take Lactoferrin Gold, a natural product designed to help balance the gut's bacteria as well as provide great immune support. Just another very simple easy step toward wellness...as you 'build' prevention into your lives.
Be Well---And STAY Well!
Sana
God created our amazing bodies to have a certain balance of bacteria in our GI tract. The 'good' bacteria help us absorb food and minerals, along with manufacturing vitamin K & some B vitamins. Some names of these beneficial bacteria you may have heard of include acidophilus and bifidobacterium. When our gut is healthy, the growth of good bacteria helps to crowd out disease-causing bacteria and make conditions unfavorable for their growth. A very important function they perform is helping the colon maintain a proper pH or acid-base balance. (Wow, it seems like pH balance is HUGE! See related articles on body pH and alkalinity in my past blogs).
Unlike the good bacteria, we don't want the 'bad' (disease-causing) bacteria, like certain strains of E. coli, C. diff. and streptococci-to take up residence inside our bodies. Besides making us sick, bad bacteria can also act to putrefy meat and other food left waiting to be digested in the colon. The 'bad' bacteria can produce enzymes that convert chemicals to carcinogens (cancer-causing agents). They also create free radicals (which can promote cancer growth). People who eat diets that are high in meat and low in fiber are at increased risk for colon cancer due in part to this fact.
One of the most common ways for our good/bad bacterial balance in the gut to become out of balance is with the use of antibiotics. Antibiotics are prescribed for dozens of common ailments, which, in the process of killing the bacteria for which they are prescribed, also kill off the friendly bacteria in our intestines. This can severely impair digestion and absorption of nutrients at a time when our body needs them most. I fully realize that antibiotics are necessary at times--even life-saving at times. The key is appropriate use of antibiotics, since increasing numbers of studies are showing that antibiotic treatment, especially when prolonged or repeated, can have a negative impact on beneficial bacteria that live in the gut.
The 'good' bacteria in our gut are called probiotics (meaning 'for life'). 'Bad' bacteria are harmful to our health. These are the bacteria that often require the need for antibiotics (meaning 'against life').
Lactobacillus acidophilus, commonly called acidophilus, and Bifidobacterium bifidum are 'good' bacteria found in our gut. They are also the most common types of probiotic supplements. Probiotics are also found naturally in fermented foods, like yogurt with live cultures, kefir, miso and sauerkraut. Probiotic supplements (available in capsules, liquids and powders) provide a large dose of bacteria beneficial to the gastrointestinal tract, and therefore, overall immunity. These 'good' bacteria crowd out disease-causing microorganisms and often improve bowel regularity.
Prebiotics are substances that feed and promote the growth of friendly probiotics. The two most common prebiotics are whey and fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS). Whey is the liquid that remains after the curd is removed from milk when making cheese. Primarily water, whey also contains minerals (potassium, calcium and phosphorus), lactose, fat and water-soluble vitamins. Fructo-oligosaccharides or "FOS" are naturally occurring short chains of fructose (fruit sugar)--found in small amounts in fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, onions, barley, wheat, rye, chicory root, garlic, Jerusalem artichokes, bananas, and honey.
A powerful, natural occuring prebiotic is lactoferrin. Lactoferrin also has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral effects. My family & I take Lactoferrin Gold, a natural product designed to help balance the gut's bacteria as well as provide great immune support. Just another very simple easy step toward wellness...as you 'build' prevention into your lives.
Be Well---And STAY Well!
Sana
Monday, July 20, 2009
Strong Bones For All--Safely!
Concerns over 'bone health'...osteopenia...osteoporosis...continue to mount in the US. It's hard to understand why, being the US consumes more calcium supplements than any other country in the world---and even more hard to believe the US leads the world in rate of osteoporosis!
Osteoporosis does not occur overnight. It takes years and years to be detected clinically and even longer to become incapacitating to the individual. It is estimated that half of the people in the US over age of 50 have low bone density. This leads to over 1.5 million fractures a year, with some requiring surgery for repair (which comes with inherent risks of complications). Of those in this category that fracture their hip, 30% end up in long-term nursing care.
Routine treatment for osteopenia & osteoporosis has been calcium supplementation in various forms, vitamin D of different types, as well as bisphosphanates (like Fosamax ) which has been linked to abdominal pain, esophageal ulcers, jaw joint destruction and cancer.
Bones serve as the support framework for the body, the other main function of our bones is to as well as acting as a mineral bank for calcium, phosphorous, etc. Up to 1 Gram of calcium is needed each day for multiple functions in our body, like heart & nerve function and the GI tract. The calcium is withdrawn from your bones each day. Just like in any money bank account, both men and women need continuous deposits of calcium to keep the reservoir full when there are regular withdrawals.
The key is prevention and providing a mechanism for the oral calcium we take to be better absorbed and transported to where it is needed. Medications (like biphosphonates) do not serve this purpose. Their goal is to stop or slow bone resorption, and, as we're hearing more and more about, they pose serious health concerns in the process.
That's why I take a revolutionary 'bone health' product, designed to decrease bone resorption (that's good!) and increase new bone formation (that's even better!)--clinically proven & without any side effects. Contact the person who forwarded this blog site to you---or contact me if you have questions or concerns about your bone health---or the bone health of someone you love.
Here's to strong bones...our whole life through...just like God meant it to be!
Sana
Osteoporosis does not occur overnight. It takes years and years to be detected clinically and even longer to become incapacitating to the individual. It is estimated that half of the people in the US over age of 50 have low bone density. This leads to over 1.5 million fractures a year, with some requiring surgery for repair (which comes with inherent risks of complications). Of those in this category that fracture their hip, 30% end up in long-term nursing care.
Routine treatment for osteopenia & osteoporosis has been calcium supplementation in various forms, vitamin D of different types, as well as bisphosphanates (like Fosamax ) which has been linked to abdominal pain, esophageal ulcers, jaw joint destruction and cancer.
Bones serve as the support framework for the body, the other main function of our bones is to as well as acting as a mineral bank for calcium, phosphorous, etc. Up to 1 Gram of calcium is needed each day for multiple functions in our body, like heart & nerve function and the GI tract. The calcium is withdrawn from your bones each day. Just like in any money bank account, both men and women need continuous deposits of calcium to keep the reservoir full when there are regular withdrawals.
The key is prevention and providing a mechanism for the oral calcium we take to be better absorbed and transported to where it is needed. Medications (like biphosphonates) do not serve this purpose. Their goal is to stop or slow bone resorption, and, as we're hearing more and more about, they pose serious health concerns in the process.
That's why I take a revolutionary 'bone health' product, designed to decrease bone resorption (that's good!) and increase new bone formation (that's even better!)--clinically proven & without any side effects. Contact the person who forwarded this blog site to you---or contact me if you have questions or concerns about your bone health---or the bone health of someone you love.
Here's to strong bones...our whole life through...just like God meant it to be!
Sana
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Barley Grass...Not just for cows anymore!
Great---now we're talking about eating 'cow food'! I can just about imagine the look on many of your faces :o) Let me explain...and take a deep breath, knowing that something so incredibly good for you doesn't require grazing or any other 'cow-like' activity---it's much more convenient than that.
So just what is barley grass?
Organic barley grass is highly alkaline (very good for us!) and is rich in enzymes (helps with digestion), especially Superoxide Dismutase (SOD). Research is showing that the human life span of humans is directly proportional to the SOD content in the heart, brain and liver. Barley grass contains large amounts of potassium, calcium and magnesium as well as beta-carotene and chlorophyll. It is seven times richer in vitamin C than the equivalent weight of oranges, and five times richer in iron than spinach. It also has a purifying effect that enables the body to eliminate many toxins that would otherwise accumulate (we can all benefit from this detoxifying effect).
Barley grass is one of the green grasses - the only vegetation on earth that can supply sole nutritional support from birth to old age. Before green grasses undergo the reproductive cycle that creates the grains, they are in the grass stage, and the grasses contain about the same vitamins and minerals as dark green vegetables. When grasses are harvested at a young age, they have a different chemical makeup from their adult counterparts. For example, wheat grass has 32 g of protein per 100 g, while wheat flour has only 13 g per 100 g. Wheat grass has about 23,000 International Units (IUs) of vitamin A per 100 g, while wheat flour has none. Great nutrition!
Green barley grass has a great alkalizing effect, which helps balance the acidity and alkalinity in our body fluids. Our cells cannot adequately function if the pH (which measures acidity and alkalinity) is not in a narrow range. Most processed foods are acidic, and when we consume too many of them, the acidity-alkalinity balance is upset. Green barley grass contains buffer minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Buffer minerals neutralize acidic materials and can help maintain a healthy acidity-alkalinity balance.
Some benefits of regular barley grass supplementation:
*Alkalizing effect
*Increased energy & alertness
*Less craving for junk foods
*Relief of muscle and joint aches
*Lessened allergy & heartburn symptoms
*Improved digestion
*Improved blood sugar balance
*Improved cholesterol maintenance
Barley grass leaf extract has also been found to inhibit the growth of human prostatic cancer cells grown in tissue culture---powerful! And it's a 'Whole Food' which means our bodies quickly & easily absorb it & put it to use.
My family & I have been taking a certain barley grass extract (simple powder or capsule form) for several years now. We've learned that all barley products are NOT created equal! I truly believe barley grass is the one foundational nutritional supplements that can (and should!) be taken by everyone.
Yet another simple, effective way to build wellness into our lives.
To your ever-improving health & wellness--
Sana
PS: Let me know if you have questions about any of these topics!
So just what is barley grass?
Organic barley grass is highly alkaline (very good for us!) and is rich in enzymes (helps with digestion), especially Superoxide Dismutase (SOD). Research is showing that the human life span of humans is directly proportional to the SOD content in the heart, brain and liver. Barley grass contains large amounts of potassium, calcium and magnesium as well as beta-carotene and chlorophyll. It is seven times richer in vitamin C than the equivalent weight of oranges, and five times richer in iron than spinach. It also has a purifying effect that enables the body to eliminate many toxins that would otherwise accumulate (we can all benefit from this detoxifying effect).
Barley grass is one of the green grasses - the only vegetation on earth that can supply sole nutritional support from birth to old age. Before green grasses undergo the reproductive cycle that creates the grains, they are in the grass stage, and the grasses contain about the same vitamins and minerals as dark green vegetables. When grasses are harvested at a young age, they have a different chemical makeup from their adult counterparts. For example, wheat grass has 32 g of protein per 100 g, while wheat flour has only 13 g per 100 g. Wheat grass has about 23,000 International Units (IUs) of vitamin A per 100 g, while wheat flour has none. Great nutrition!
Green barley grass has a great alkalizing effect, which helps balance the acidity and alkalinity in our body fluids. Our cells cannot adequately function if the pH (which measures acidity and alkalinity) is not in a narrow range. Most processed foods are acidic, and when we consume too many of them, the acidity-alkalinity balance is upset. Green barley grass contains buffer minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Buffer minerals neutralize acidic materials and can help maintain a healthy acidity-alkalinity balance.
Some benefits of regular barley grass supplementation:
*Alkalizing effect
*Increased energy & alertness
*Less craving for junk foods
*Relief of muscle and joint aches
*Lessened allergy & heartburn symptoms
*Improved digestion
*Improved blood sugar balance
*Improved cholesterol maintenance
Barley grass leaf extract has also been found to inhibit the growth of human prostatic cancer cells grown in tissue culture---powerful! And it's a 'Whole Food' which means our bodies quickly & easily absorb it & put it to use.
My family & I have been taking a certain barley grass extract (simple powder or capsule form) for several years now. We've learned that all barley products are NOT created equal! I truly believe barley grass is the one foundational nutritional supplements that can (and should!) be taken by everyone.
Yet another simple, effective way to build wellness into our lives.
To your ever-improving health & wellness--
Sana
PS: Let me know if you have questions about any of these topics!
Friday, July 10, 2009
Making The Most Of Your Health Care Dollars
I know statistics are boring--Please hang with me--I promise to be brief with them, OK? I've found that they can impact on our thinking...which can in turn impact our actions...and ultimately our health!
Here we go:
**Americans spend twice as much per person, on health care, as any other country--yet we still have some of the world's highest rates of heart disease, cancer, arthritis, diabetes, and mental illness. We should, by all rights, be the healthiest country in the world with this kind of spending! NOT the best use of our health care dollars. This fact alone is evidence enough that our current medical system is broken and in need of a complete overhaul--which, as we've been learning starts with each of us taking Ownership Of Our Health.
**Today in the US, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 2 men will get cancer. And that's after pouring more than $50 billion dollars over the past 30 years into fight against cancer. This research has resulted in a 13% increase in the incidence of cancer and a 7% increase in the overall death rate of cancer. Not quite the results one would expect after $50 billion dollars, huh? Are our health care dollars hard at work?? A more effective approach: Learning and incorporating SIMPLE & EFFECTIVE ways to minimize our cancer risk--of which there are plenty! I've addressed some of these in my past blogs--and will continue to do so.
**Over 100,000 people die from adverse reactions to drugs each year in the US, which means taking a prescription drug is the number 4 cause of death, after heart disease/stroke, cancer and diabetes. More current data is showing that it may be actually 2nd or 3rd in cause of death, instead of 4th. Bottom line? We need to take Ownership Of Our Health NOW and minimize the need for prescription meds as much as possible. Think of the impact that would have our health care dollars!
Let's end on a positive note, knowing that our frame of mind impacts our health as well! Did you know that not one American has died from vitamin use (or abuse) in the past ten years---yet 17,000 die from OTC (over the counter) pain killers? Obviously the quality of vitamins (nutritional supplements) makes a huge difference. I have some blogs referencing this---and again, more to come!
The world is becoming divided into health care professionals who prevent disease and promote wellness and health care professionals who treat sickness. Which category does your health care provider/professional(s) fall into? Are they advising you on health and long-term wellness? Do they fit into the category of 'healthy individuals'? Great food for thought---after all, we only get one body for this lifetime--no trade-in's! What a great common goal: making the most of our health care dollars--let's do it!
Blessings on your health--
Sana
Here we go:
**Americans spend twice as much per person, on health care, as any other country--yet we still have some of the world's highest rates of heart disease, cancer, arthritis, diabetes, and mental illness. We should, by all rights, be the healthiest country in the world with this kind of spending! NOT the best use of our health care dollars. This fact alone is evidence enough that our current medical system is broken and in need of a complete overhaul--which, as we've been learning starts with each of us taking Ownership Of Our Health.
**Today in the US, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 2 men will get cancer. And that's after pouring more than $50 billion dollars over the past 30 years into fight against cancer. This research has resulted in a 13% increase in the incidence of cancer and a 7% increase in the overall death rate of cancer. Not quite the results one would expect after $50 billion dollars, huh? Are our health care dollars hard at work?? A more effective approach: Learning and incorporating SIMPLE & EFFECTIVE ways to minimize our cancer risk--of which there are plenty! I've addressed some of these in my past blogs--and will continue to do so.
**Over 100,000 people die from adverse reactions to drugs each year in the US, which means taking a prescription drug is the number 4 cause of death, after heart disease/stroke, cancer and diabetes. More current data is showing that it may be actually 2nd or 3rd in cause of death, instead of 4th. Bottom line? We need to take Ownership Of Our Health NOW and minimize the need for prescription meds as much as possible. Think of the impact that would have our health care dollars!
Let's end on a positive note, knowing that our frame of mind impacts our health as well! Did you know that not one American has died from vitamin use (or abuse) in the past ten years---yet 17,000 die from OTC (over the counter) pain killers? Obviously the quality of vitamins (nutritional supplements) makes a huge difference. I have some blogs referencing this---and again, more to come!
The world is becoming divided into health care professionals who prevent disease and promote wellness and health care professionals who treat sickness. Which category does your health care provider/professional(s) fall into? Are they advising you on health and long-term wellness? Do they fit into the category of 'healthy individuals'? Great food for thought---after all, we only get one body for this lifetime--no trade-in's! What a great common goal: making the most of our health care dollars--let's do it!
Blessings on your health--
Sana
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Which Do You Prefer...Exercise or Physical Activity?
It seems as though the media (along with other entities) is trying to soften or 'pretty up' the concept of regular exercise by calling it 'physical activity' (which it is, obviously). So call it whatever you choose---to make it sound appealing---then just DO IT! Below is some serious ammunition (health reasons) to spur you on:
Exercise helps prevent obesity, heart disease, diabetes, stroke, hormone imbalances, depression and some forms of cancer.(This is actually a US law: 103-417!)
The CDC reports that 70% of Americans are not active enough to benefit their health. Not a surprise to the majority of us---A definite 'wake-up call' though!
Medical studies have shown that 90 minutes of exercise a week controlled depression better than tri-cyclic antidepressant drugs. The benefits took 8 weeks to reach this level. WOW!
By combining exercise with nutritional supplementation you get exponential benefits to the immune function:
*Humans that took nutritional supplements increased NK cells 18% for 6 hours. (Natural Killer cells--they're good guys! They destroy fatal viruses, cancers, and bacteria)
*Humans that exercised increased NK cells 13% for 6 hours.
*Humans that did both increased NK cells 255% for 20 hours!!
Walking is one of the best forms of exercise. Take out your calendar and schedule it in your day. What a great investment to make in your health...and...yup...it's FREE as well! (Unless you need a new pair of walking shoes---or opt for a pair of weighted fitness shoes like I wear each morning!).
The benefits are TOO GREAT to ignore. Start your regular exercise plan TODAY--don't wait for a new month, a new season, a new walking outfit---just DO IT!
Blessings of health to you--
Sana
Exercise helps prevent obesity, heart disease, diabetes, stroke, hormone imbalances, depression and some forms of cancer.(This is actually a US law: 103-417!)
The CDC reports that 70% of Americans are not active enough to benefit their health. Not a surprise to the majority of us---A definite 'wake-up call' though!
Medical studies have shown that 90 minutes of exercise a week controlled depression better than tri-cyclic antidepressant drugs. The benefits took 8 weeks to reach this level. WOW!
By combining exercise with nutritional supplementation you get exponential benefits to the immune function:
*Humans that took nutritional supplements increased NK cells 18% for 6 hours. (Natural Killer cells--they're good guys! They destroy fatal viruses, cancers, and bacteria)
*Humans that exercised increased NK cells 13% for 6 hours.
*Humans that did both increased NK cells 255% for 20 hours!!
Walking is one of the best forms of exercise. Take out your calendar and schedule it in your day. What a great investment to make in your health...and...yup...it's FREE as well! (Unless you need a new pair of walking shoes---or opt for a pair of weighted fitness shoes like I wear each morning!).
The benefits are TOO GREAT to ignore. Start your regular exercise plan TODAY--don't wait for a new month, a new season, a new walking outfit---just DO IT!
Blessings of health to you--
Sana
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Preventive Maintenance---For YOU!
Ask anyone who recently purchased a new car if they plan on getting the oil changed regularly--and following the preventive maintenance plan found in the Owner's Manual. The typical answer is, "of course!" When asked why, their answer would be something on the order of, "to make it last longer and work more efficiently." It's not a hard concept for the vast majority of car owners to grasp---that's why we see the 'Grease Monkeys' and 'Oil Can Harry's' around---to make it convenient for necessary vehicle maintenance.
The car analogy is not new...it's just a great way to 'wrap your mind' around the idea of 'Personal Preventive Maintenance.' We realize the benefits of regular oil changes, fluid checks, tire rotations, filter changes, etc for our vehicles---so we make sure it gets done. And no, insurance doesn't pay for it! We know we'll end up paying much more in the long run, though, if we forego the preventive maintenance.
If we're making sure this happens for our vehicles, why on earth are so many people not doing the same for their bodies?? At least we can get a new vehicle if the current one breaks down completely. We can't get a new body! And if we wait until our bodies break down, we know that it will cost more and take longer to get 'back to normal'---and sometimes normal is not even an option.
What does Personal Preventive Maintenance look like? Biggies on the list include:
*Getting good quality sleep in adequate amounts nightly
*Drinking 1/2 our body weight in ounces each day--good quality drinking water
*Using an air filtration system in our home (that doesn't produce ozone)
*Eating a balanced diet with an emphasis on veggies and fruit (minimimizing processed foods)
*Taking basic whole food supplements to make sure our bodies are getting the nutrition they need
*Getting regular exercise (walking 30 minutes a day)
*Regular health screenings, depending on age (mammogram, colonoscopy, BP checks...)
As you can see, none of it is rocket science. If you're serious about 'getting healthy' and taking Ownership of your Health' choose one of the above and make it a priority---'build' it into your daily routine.
I have ideas and recommendations to help make this process easier as well. My family and I have been enjoying the benefits of 'personal preventive maintenance' for years.
Time to go get my oil changed on my vehicle (thank goodness there are no muffler bearings to grease!) :o)
Be Well...
Sana
The car analogy is not new...it's just a great way to 'wrap your mind' around the idea of 'Personal Preventive Maintenance.' We realize the benefits of regular oil changes, fluid checks, tire rotations, filter changes, etc for our vehicles---so we make sure it gets done. And no, insurance doesn't pay for it! We know we'll end up paying much more in the long run, though, if we forego the preventive maintenance.
If we're making sure this happens for our vehicles, why on earth are so many people not doing the same for their bodies?? At least we can get a new vehicle if the current one breaks down completely. We can't get a new body! And if we wait until our bodies break down, we know that it will cost more and take longer to get 'back to normal'---and sometimes normal is not even an option.
What does Personal Preventive Maintenance look like? Biggies on the list include:
*Getting good quality sleep in adequate amounts nightly
*Drinking 1/2 our body weight in ounces each day--good quality drinking water
*Using an air filtration system in our home (that doesn't produce ozone)
*Eating a balanced diet with an emphasis on veggies and fruit (minimimizing processed foods)
*Taking basic whole food supplements to make sure our bodies are getting the nutrition they need
*Getting regular exercise (walking 30 minutes a day)
*Regular health screenings, depending on age (mammogram, colonoscopy, BP checks...)
As you can see, none of it is rocket science. If you're serious about 'getting healthy' and taking Ownership of your Health' choose one of the above and make it a priority---'build' it into your daily routine.
I have ideas and recommendations to help make this process easier as well. My family and I have been enjoying the benefits of 'personal preventive maintenance' for years.
Time to go get my oil changed on my vehicle (thank goodness there are no muffler bearings to grease!) :o)
Be Well...
Sana
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Smoke Detectors & Sickness Detectors
You know the feeling...after a busy day...looking forward to falling into bed for a great night's sleep...the end to a great day, right?
Now imagine a most annoying sound...the chirping/beeping noise of a smoke detector in need of a new battery! The chirp/beep noise broke the quietness of the evening around 10:15PM---just as I was getting ready for bed. My husband was out of town last night (how does that work?), so I figured out which smoke alarm it was (not hard--just follow the annoying chirp/beep to where it is the loudest) & hauled the ladder in from the garage (10 foot ceilings--step stools don't work!). I even had extra 9 volt batteries (from the last time this happened in the middle of the night), so I put one in my pocket & climbed up. OK, now...let's balance on the ladder...try to unscrew the smoke detector unit from the ceiling overhead & pull the battery out...all while balancing...Hmmm. Easier said than done! I finally wiggled the battery out & finally wiggled the new one into place & climbed down the ladder---only to hear the annoying chirp---AGAIN!
Long story short---after about 10 more trips up & down the ladder, reinserting the battery a few times, putting yet another battery in, waiting to see if the chirping stopped---Mission Accomplished--around 11PM! The chirping was intermittent--- everything seemed fine after inserting the battery, so I would climb down the ladder, wait a few minutes, only to hear it chirp/beep again! I admit I resorted to Googling in my frustration...using the key words of 'smoke detector chirping'---only to find that millions of others had dealt with similar challenges---all seeming to take place during the night! One gal had posted a question on one of the websites, wondering why 'they' couldn't make the alarms (chirp/beep noise) go off during the day instead of night-time. That would be convenient, wouldn't it? (I'm thinking she was blonde--but then so am I!) :o)
All I really wanted to do was drop into bed (my wonderful sleep system) & go to sleep, but the chirp/beep was something not to be ignored---and no, the chirping/beeping doesn't stop just by taking the battery out---the problem has to be taken care of!
Now imagine once more...an annoying chirp/beep noise that went off whenever our bodies started developing a sickness or disease...with the annoying noise continuing until we corrected the problem. A 'Sickness Detector' of sorts...what a concept!
Most diseases take several years to show up with symptoms--and then it's often a huge challenge to get back to total health. A person doesn't just 'catch' heart disease one day...or high blood pressure...or diabetes...or cancer, to name a few of the 'biggies' out there. An alarm that wouldn't stop until we addressed the problem by making simple lifestyle changes---things would look a bit different around here, I would say---we'd be looking at a lot more healthier people!
That's what building prevention into our lives is all about---except for the annoying chirping/beeping part! We've learned that good health doesn't just happen. And being proactive can make a huge difference in keeping those alarms from sounding. It's called Taking Ownership of our Health, instead of waiting for 'something bad' to happen...or letting your health care practitioner 'call the shots.'
I know I can avoid the annoying late night/middle of the night chirping/beeping of the smoke detectors with preventive maintenance of changing the batteries regularly---which we're going to start doing!
Isn't it time for each of us to make sure our 'Preventive Maintenance Plan' is in place for ourselves and our families? Watch for upcoming blogs on this---and email or post your questions!
Sleep Well with no chirp/beeps, knowing you're on the track to Total Wellness....
Sana
Now imagine a most annoying sound...the chirping/beeping noise of a smoke detector in need of a new battery! The chirp/beep noise broke the quietness of the evening around 10:15PM---just as I was getting ready for bed. My husband was out of town last night (how does that work?), so I figured out which smoke alarm it was (not hard--just follow the annoying chirp/beep to where it is the loudest) & hauled the ladder in from the garage (10 foot ceilings--step stools don't work!). I even had extra 9 volt batteries (from the last time this happened in the middle of the night), so I put one in my pocket & climbed up. OK, now...let's balance on the ladder...try to unscrew the smoke detector unit from the ceiling overhead & pull the battery out...all while balancing...Hmmm. Easier said than done! I finally wiggled the battery out & finally wiggled the new one into place & climbed down the ladder---only to hear the annoying chirp---AGAIN!
Long story short---after about 10 more trips up & down the ladder, reinserting the battery a few times, putting yet another battery in, waiting to see if the chirping stopped---Mission Accomplished--around 11PM! The chirping was intermittent--- everything seemed fine after inserting the battery, so I would climb down the ladder, wait a few minutes, only to hear it chirp/beep again! I admit I resorted to Googling in my frustration...using the key words of 'smoke detector chirping'---only to find that millions of others had dealt with similar challenges---all seeming to take place during the night! One gal had posted a question on one of the websites, wondering why 'they' couldn't make the alarms (chirp/beep noise) go off during the day instead of night-time. That would be convenient, wouldn't it? (I'm thinking she was blonde--but then so am I!) :o)
All I really wanted to do was drop into bed (my wonderful sleep system) & go to sleep, but the chirp/beep was something not to be ignored---and no, the chirping/beeping doesn't stop just by taking the battery out---the problem has to be taken care of!
Now imagine once more...an annoying chirp/beep noise that went off whenever our bodies started developing a sickness or disease...with the annoying noise continuing until we corrected the problem. A 'Sickness Detector' of sorts...what a concept!
Most diseases take several years to show up with symptoms--and then it's often a huge challenge to get back to total health. A person doesn't just 'catch' heart disease one day...or high blood pressure...or diabetes...or cancer, to name a few of the 'biggies' out there. An alarm that wouldn't stop until we addressed the problem by making simple lifestyle changes---things would look a bit different around here, I would say---we'd be looking at a lot more healthier people!
That's what building prevention into our lives is all about---except for the annoying chirping/beeping part! We've learned that good health doesn't just happen. And being proactive can make a huge difference in keeping those alarms from sounding. It's called Taking Ownership of our Health, instead of waiting for 'something bad' to happen...or letting your health care practitioner 'call the shots.'
I know I can avoid the annoying late night/middle of the night chirping/beeping of the smoke detectors with preventive maintenance of changing the batteries regularly---which we're going to start doing!
Isn't it time for each of us to make sure our 'Preventive Maintenance Plan' is in place for ourselves and our families? Watch for upcoming blogs on this---and email or post your questions!
Sleep Well with no chirp/beeps, knowing you're on the track to Total Wellness....
Sana
Monday, July 6, 2009
Showering Basics: No Chlorine!
If you were worried about a boring blog outlining the basics on how to take a shower---No Worries! Let's just assume that we all have that 'basic' down. :o)
What you may not realize is that drinking water (tap water) is not the only way to absorb toxic substances including chlorine. Chlorination of municipal water systems produces by-products which can cause serious health concerns. These byproducts have been associated with a variety of serious health challenges, like cancer, birth defects, kidney & liver damage, immune system suppression and neurologic problems.
These chlorine byproducts can be absorbed through our skin when bathing and showering. Certain byproducts, like trihalomethanes, enter our lungs when we inhale the steamy air during bathing. The amount of byproducts absorbed through our skin and lungs during bathing may be even greater in amount than one would ingest in a normal day of drinking tap water.
We realize that water disinfection with chlorine-type products decreases the level of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses and cysts in the water. Chlorine is a reasonably inexpensive disinfectant, not too difficult to use and serves a variety of other purposes, including controlling color and odor. It does a pretty good job at cleaning up our water sources.
Just remember---our bodies were not designed to absorb chlorine (or any chlorine derivative)! An easy solution our family uses is a simple showerhead designed to filter out chlorine. It's great taking a shower without smelling the chlorine, having it dry out our skin and potentially causing significant health challenges.
Some of you may be wondering about swimming in a chlorinated pool...a way to minimize absorbing chlorine is to take a shower before jumping in. This decreases the amount of chlorine absorbed.
Be Well---and Be Thankful for Good Health!
Sana
What you may not realize is that drinking water (tap water) is not the only way to absorb toxic substances including chlorine. Chlorination of municipal water systems produces by-products which can cause serious health concerns. These byproducts have been associated with a variety of serious health challenges, like cancer, birth defects, kidney & liver damage, immune system suppression and neurologic problems.
These chlorine byproducts can be absorbed through our skin when bathing and showering. Certain byproducts, like trihalomethanes, enter our lungs when we inhale the steamy air during bathing. The amount of byproducts absorbed through our skin and lungs during bathing may be even greater in amount than one would ingest in a normal day of drinking tap water.
We realize that water disinfection with chlorine-type products decreases the level of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses and cysts in the water. Chlorine is a reasonably inexpensive disinfectant, not too difficult to use and serves a variety of other purposes, including controlling color and odor. It does a pretty good job at cleaning up our water sources.
Just remember---our bodies were not designed to absorb chlorine (or any chlorine derivative)! An easy solution our family uses is a simple showerhead designed to filter out chlorine. It's great taking a shower without smelling the chlorine, having it dry out our skin and potentially causing significant health challenges.
Some of you may be wondering about swimming in a chlorinated pool...a way to minimize absorbing chlorine is to take a shower before jumping in. This decreases the amount of chlorine absorbed.
Be Well---and Be Thankful for Good Health!
Sana
Saturday, July 4, 2009
The Freedom To Take Ownership Of Your Health
We are very blessed as a nation to live in a country with such ready access to healthcare. We know that most people in the world don't have this luxury. But...would you agree that good access to healthcare DOES NOT ALWAYS EQUAL good health to those it serves?
American medicine sometimes causes more harm than good. The number of people having adverse drug reactions to prescribed medications while hospitalized is 2.2 million. The CDC reported the number of unnecessary antibiotics prescribed annually for viral infections in 1995 was 20 million. That number has now grown into the tens of millions of unnecessary antibiotics. (I'll explain in an upcoming blog about what frequent/unnecessary antibiotics can do to our 'gut' or GI tract).
The number of unnecessary medical and surgical procedures performed annually is 7.5 million. The number of people exposed to unnecessary hospitalization annually is 8.9 million.
As you read about these huge numbers, it may appear that the American medical system is the leading cause of death and injury in the United States! This may be a surprise to some---appalling to others---and extremely obvious to yet others.
I'm not saying that healthcare in the US is all bad...there's just great room for improvement. The first step is the decision to take OWNERSHIP of our health, not leaving our health up to chance...or in the hands of others (even healthcare providers). Don't get me wrong---I'm a healthcare provider...a Registered Nurse. My point is that it is that each of is is responsible for working with trusted healthcare providers, taking the time to learn about various options that are available, and then making the best decision based on solid information.
This is a totally different scenario from showing up for a medical appointment, telling where it hurts, being handed a few prescriptions & driving on the the pharmacy to get them filled---without first learning what is causing the health challenge or symptoms, discussing various options for treatment (including potential side effects), and focusing on simple lifestyle changes that will have longlasting effects.
We have the FREEDOM to take ownership of our health. We often don't realize what a gift our health is until it is threatened or gone.
Enjoy your many freedoms this 4th of July holiday---including your freedom to take back ownership of your health!
In Health...
Sana
American medicine sometimes causes more harm than good. The number of people having adverse drug reactions to prescribed medications while hospitalized is 2.2 million. The CDC reported the number of unnecessary antibiotics prescribed annually for viral infections in 1995 was 20 million. That number has now grown into the tens of millions of unnecessary antibiotics. (I'll explain in an upcoming blog about what frequent/unnecessary antibiotics can do to our 'gut' or GI tract).
The number of unnecessary medical and surgical procedures performed annually is 7.5 million. The number of people exposed to unnecessary hospitalization annually is 8.9 million.
As you read about these huge numbers, it may appear that the American medical system is the leading cause of death and injury in the United States! This may be a surprise to some---appalling to others---and extremely obvious to yet others.
I'm not saying that healthcare in the US is all bad...there's just great room for improvement. The first step is the decision to take OWNERSHIP of our health, not leaving our health up to chance...or in the hands of others (even healthcare providers). Don't get me wrong---I'm a healthcare provider...a Registered Nurse. My point is that it is that each of is is responsible for working with trusted healthcare providers, taking the time to learn about various options that are available, and then making the best decision based on solid information.
This is a totally different scenario from showing up for a medical appointment, telling where it hurts, being handed a few prescriptions & driving on the the pharmacy to get them filled---without first learning what is causing the health challenge or symptoms, discussing various options for treatment (including potential side effects), and focusing on simple lifestyle changes that will have longlasting effects.
We have the FREEDOM to take ownership of our health. We often don't realize what a gift our health is until it is threatened or gone.
Enjoy your many freedoms this 4th of July holiday---including your freedom to take back ownership of your health!
In Health...
Sana
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Choose Joy!
A little different topic, I realize---but just you wait!
A new friend of mine--a most amazing woman--included a 'tip' in her recent blog about pain being inevitable...misery being optional...and how we can all choose joy.
There's actually research about this...and...joy is FREE! It requires no prescription! It won't interfere with anything else in your life (oh, except maybe misery). And...there are no side effects (oh, except for being infectious around others...but that's a good thing...just more joy!)
A researcher from Pittsburgh Cancer Institute found the level of joy to be the second best predictor of survival time among patients with recurring breast cancer. How powerful is that??
Researchers have also found a high correlation between a person's level of assertiveness and fighting spirit (Game On!) and their immune levels. (The greater the fighting spirit and assertiveness, the higher functioning of the immune system--this is good!)
A researcher from Harvard conducted a 10-year study of 1,300 men that considered themselves optimists. They were found to have only half the incidence of heart disease compared to non-optimists (that would be the pessimists, right?) :o)
So...especially as we head into a wonderful holiday weekend where we celebrate our independence in the great USA, choose joy. Even when we may not be at a point where there is much joy in the current situation, we still have the choice to choose what we focus on and think about. Choose joy---Every time!
May you be blessed with great joy...and great health!
Sana
A new friend of mine--a most amazing woman--included a 'tip' in her recent blog about pain being inevitable...misery being optional...and how we can all choose joy.
There's actually research about this...and...joy is FREE! It requires no prescription! It won't interfere with anything else in your life (oh, except maybe misery). And...there are no side effects (oh, except for being infectious around others...but that's a good thing...just more joy!)
A researcher from Pittsburgh Cancer Institute found the level of joy to be the second best predictor of survival time among patients with recurring breast cancer. How powerful is that??
Researchers have also found a high correlation between a person's level of assertiveness and fighting spirit (Game On!) and their immune levels. (The greater the fighting spirit and assertiveness, the higher functioning of the immune system--this is good!)
A researcher from Harvard conducted a 10-year study of 1,300 men that considered themselves optimists. They were found to have only half the incidence of heart disease compared to non-optimists (that would be the pessimists, right?) :o)
So...especially as we head into a wonderful holiday weekend where we celebrate our independence in the great USA, choose joy. Even when we may not be at a point where there is much joy in the current situation, we still have the choice to choose what we focus on and think about. Choose joy---Every time!
May you be blessed with great joy...and great health!
Sana
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
No More Percocet & Vicodin...How About Some Safe Options?
The news headlines this morning probably took a few people by surprise..."Ban Percocet and Vicodin"...two of the most commonly prescribed pain relievers.
High doses of acetaminophen (main ingredient in pain relievers like Tylenol and Excedrin) are a leading cause of liver damage. Acetaminophen overdose is the leading cause of liver failure in the US, sending over 56,000 people to the Emergency Department. About 200 people die yearly as a result.
A committee of experts assembled by the FDA voted recommended that the FDA eliminate prescription drugs Vicodin and Percocet and reduce the highest allowed dose of acetaminophen in over-the-counter pills like Tylenol to 325 milligrams (from 500 mg). Members also voted to reduce the maximum daily dosage of acetaminophen to less than 4,000 milligrams.
Acetaminophen is combined with different narcotics in at least seven other prescription drugs, like Vicodin and Percocet. All of these combination pills will be banned if the Food and Drug Administration heeds the advice of its experts. Vicodin and its generic equivalents alone are prescribed more than 100 million times a year in the United States.
Dr. Lewis S. Nelson, a toxicologist from the New York University School of Medicine who served as the panel’s acting chairman, said experts had been warning of the dangers of combination painkillers like Percocet and Vicodin for years.
This recommendation is likely to come as a shock to many patients, who may be unaware of the dangers of high doses of acetaminophen — even if they know the drugs contain the ingredient.
This action has the potential of leaving many chronic pain sufferers with yet another challenge: finding a new way to reduce or eliminate their pain.
SAFE options would be a great starting point, don't you think? Maybe it's time to 'think outside the box'...the 'box' that most of us have grown up with: Pain? Take a pain pill. It that doesn't work take more pain pills or a combination of them.
How about this: Pain? Let's figure out the cause of the pain & address that. In the meantime, how about using totally safe and clinically researched technologies like far-infrared and magnetics for relief? I realize it may sound unusual---different---unlikely---that's because most of us have been brought up in the Western Medicine philosophy of treating symptoms, where pharmaceutical companies are earning billions of dollars, often at our individual great expense.
Safe, effective options---definitely worth checking out!
I look forward to your feedback....Let me know if there is a particular topic you would like addressed.
Be Well...
Sana
High doses of acetaminophen (main ingredient in pain relievers like Tylenol and Excedrin) are a leading cause of liver damage. Acetaminophen overdose is the leading cause of liver failure in the US, sending over 56,000 people to the Emergency Department. About 200 people die yearly as a result.
A committee of experts assembled by the FDA voted recommended that the FDA eliminate prescription drugs Vicodin and Percocet and reduce the highest allowed dose of acetaminophen in over-the-counter pills like Tylenol to 325 milligrams (from 500 mg). Members also voted to reduce the maximum daily dosage of acetaminophen to less than 4,000 milligrams.
Acetaminophen is combined with different narcotics in at least seven other prescription drugs, like Vicodin and Percocet. All of these combination pills will be banned if the Food and Drug Administration heeds the advice of its experts. Vicodin and its generic equivalents alone are prescribed more than 100 million times a year in the United States.
Dr. Lewis S. Nelson, a toxicologist from the New York University School of Medicine who served as the panel’s acting chairman, said experts had been warning of the dangers of combination painkillers like Percocet and Vicodin for years.
This recommendation is likely to come as a shock to many patients, who may be unaware of the dangers of high doses of acetaminophen — even if they know the drugs contain the ingredient.
This action has the potential of leaving many chronic pain sufferers with yet another challenge: finding a new way to reduce or eliminate their pain.
SAFE options would be a great starting point, don't you think? Maybe it's time to 'think outside the box'...the 'box' that most of us have grown up with: Pain? Take a pain pill. It that doesn't work take more pain pills or a combination of them.
How about this: Pain? Let's figure out the cause of the pain & address that. In the meantime, how about using totally safe and clinically researched technologies like far-infrared and magnetics for relief? I realize it may sound unusual---different---unlikely---that's because most of us have been brought up in the Western Medicine philosophy of treating symptoms, where pharmaceutical companies are earning billions of dollars, often at our individual great expense.
Safe, effective options---definitely worth checking out!
I look forward to your feedback....Let me know if there is a particular topic you would like addressed.
Be Well...
Sana
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