I know, I know...the thought of 'food' still brings back memories of yesterday (Thanksgiving Day in the US) & that stuffed feeling many of us left the table with...
How appropriate (at least in my thinking) to have a quick refresher course in healthy foods--foods that have 'Anti-Aging' properties--to guide us in our eating choices during this most challenging time of year.
I have a goal of eating healthy at least 75% of the time, realizing that it's a 'real world' out there, with time crunches...holiday get-togethers with few if any 'healthy eating choices'...and the whole Christmas baking/cookies arena... :o)
Keep this list in mind when grocery shopping, eating out, and preparing menus & meals for the week (if you're one of those organized people I'm jealous of!).
->Fresh fruits & vegetables: Keep handy in the fridge or basket on the counter for healthy munching options. Get organic if possible--be sure to include dark green veggies!. The nutrients in fresh fruits & veggies are huge in keeping you healthy & slowig the aging process.
->Whole grains, nuts & beans: These will keep your fiber intake up, along with providing great protein, minerals and essential fatty acids (EFA's).
->Cultured foods: Good quality yogurt, kefir (like drinkable yogurt--very good!), miso (soup), & tempeh are in this category. They help keep your digestive system working as it should, which keeps your immune system strong (the good bacteria/bad bacteria benefits--see past blog from 7/26/09).
->Sea greens: These are amazing 'superfoods of the ocean' that are loaded with protein, vitamins, minerals chlorophyll, enzymes, fiber...and are very helpful in regulating thyroid function. You can buy the dried version of them & 'get used' to them by crumbling a few on green salads & adding to soups. I'll post a blog about Sea greens in the near future as well.
->Fish & fresh seafood: Choose ones with lower mercury levels & ecofriendly, like cod, halibut, pollock, salmon... (http://www.edf.org/page.cfm?tagID=15890 This website gives a great listing of good fish/seafood choices). Fish & seafood are a great protein source, with many of them a great source of essential fatty acids (EFA's) as well.
->Whole grain pasta & rice: A great source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins (esp. B vits) & iron. There are many 'brown rice' options to choose from---they have so much flavor!
->'Good' fats (monounsaturated): Our bodies need small amounts of healthy fats each day...olive oil, peanut oil, almonds, avocados & pumpkin seeds are some great sources of 'good fat.'
->Filtered, pure water: (I know...water is not a FOOD, but it is THAT important!) Drinking at least 8 8-oz glasses/day is a good start. An more precise guideline for water consumption is drinking half your body weight in ounces/day. I weigh 140lb, so I should drink at least 70 oz/day (about 9 8-oz glasses). Being well-hydrated has a powerful effect on your entire body, not to mention providing energy & a greater sense of well-being. For information on the various types of water & how they affect our bodies, check out my blog post from June 10th.
Here's to a Healthy & Joy-Filled Christmas Season...so we can all start out the New Year on the right foot (instead of the 'I wish I hadn't eaten so much over Christmas' foot!)
Blessings on your health...
Sana
Showing posts with label wellness. Show all posts
Showing posts with label wellness. Show all posts
Friday, November 27, 2009
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Slow Down & Expect Great Health!
Taking steps to improve your overall health doesn't have to be time-consuming, painful or expensive---Check out these SIMPLE ideas below! You may want to make a sign/reminder for yourself to 'Slow Down'! :o)
Slower breathing is one of the simplest ways to better health. Deep breathing lowers stress and reduces systolic blood pressure (the top BP number). It allows oxygen to get down to the smallest airways in our lungs, where the oxygen exchange is most efficient. Quick, shallow breathing causes our bodies to be less oxygenated (not a healthy state to be in).
Slower eating is one of the simplest ways to eat less. This is because of the 'lag time' between when the stretch receptors in your stomach signal it is time to stop eating ('I'm full!') and when your brain gets the message. Researchers at the University of Rhode Island discovered that people who eat slowly consume around 70 less calories/meal. Multiply that by 3 meals a day and you could lose 20 pounds over the next year.
Slowing down in general is one of the simplest ways to prevent accidents. It's impossible to calculate the number of motorists killed or injured each year because they were in a rush. Insurance companies have found that the overwhelming majority of job-site accidents are traceable to hurrying. You actually save time, do better work and prevent more injuries by slowing down.
The last simple step for this blog is to simply Expect To Be Well, no matter what age you are! Obviously we need to take an active role in our health---being 'Owners of our Health' and making good decisions. Couple that along with positive expectations for good health---and you're way ahead of the average American who entertains thoughts like, 'Well, I'm almost 50, so I suppose I'll have a heart atack before long'...or 'Cancer runs in my family, so I suppose I'm next'...What?? Really?? We can't afford to have thoughts like that--We get what we think about!
How about 'changing the tape' and reminding yourself throughout the day of positive messages like 'I take good care of myself and am so blessed to be healthy' and 'I am grateful for my ever-improving health'?
Here's to Continued Great Expectations for your great health!
Sana
Slower breathing is one of the simplest ways to better health. Deep breathing lowers stress and reduces systolic blood pressure (the top BP number). It allows oxygen to get down to the smallest airways in our lungs, where the oxygen exchange is most efficient. Quick, shallow breathing causes our bodies to be less oxygenated (not a healthy state to be in).
Slower eating is one of the simplest ways to eat less. This is because of the 'lag time' between when the stretch receptors in your stomach signal it is time to stop eating ('I'm full!') and when your brain gets the message. Researchers at the University of Rhode Island discovered that people who eat slowly consume around 70 less calories/meal. Multiply that by 3 meals a day and you could lose 20 pounds over the next year.
Slowing down in general is one of the simplest ways to prevent accidents. It's impossible to calculate the number of motorists killed or injured each year because they were in a rush. Insurance companies have found that the overwhelming majority of job-site accidents are traceable to hurrying. You actually save time, do better work and prevent more injuries by slowing down.
The last simple step for this blog is to simply Expect To Be Well, no matter what age you are! Obviously we need to take an active role in our health---being 'Owners of our Health' and making good decisions. Couple that along with positive expectations for good health---and you're way ahead of the average American who entertains thoughts like, 'Well, I'm almost 50, so I suppose I'll have a heart atack before long'...or 'Cancer runs in my family, so I suppose I'm next'...What?? Really?? We can't afford to have thoughts like that--We get what we think about!
How about 'changing the tape' and reminding yourself throughout the day of positive messages like 'I take good care of myself and am so blessed to be healthy' and 'I am grateful for my ever-improving health'?
Here's to Continued Great Expectations for your great health!
Sana
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
A Healthy Cause And Effect
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
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
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
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
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Omega 3's...Amazingly Powerful & Extremely Beneficial!
How about a 'Cliff Note' version of Omega 3's? A lot of information is out there, which can get confusing as we try & keep the 'alphabet soup' straight with EPA, DHA, ALA, Omega 3, Omega 6...XYZ!
What are they??
Omega 3's are one of the 'fatty acids' that are essential for maintaining optimal health. They are a type of unsaturated fats, or “good” fats. These fatty acids are not naturally produced by the body but can be derived from our diet. They provide structural & metabolic functions in the brain & retina (eye) & assist in overall cell function in the body, for starters. A deficiency in Omega 3's may play a role in accelerated cerebral (brain) aging.
What's the difference between Omega 3's & Omega 6's??
Omega 6 fatty acids are also essential for optimal health and are found in eggs, cereals, breads, poultry, processed foods, margarine & most vegetable oils. The average American's diet is typically too high in Omega 6's. Sixty years ago, the ratio of Omega 6's to Omega 3's was a healthy, balanced 1 to 2. That ratio today is 25 to 1 (Carcinogenesis, Sept.2005).
What are the best sources of Omega 3's??
Salmon, sardines, mackerel, herring, albacore tuna, wild game, flaxseed, wheat germ, soybeans, walnuts, vegetable oils & green leafy vegetables.
What are the health benefits of regular intake of Omega 3's??
Reduced incidence of heart disease and strokes--lowered blood pressure & triglyceride levels--reduced incidence of depression, dementia & anxiety--prevention of migraines--prevention of diabetes complications--reduced cancer risk---anti-inflammatory effect, reduced stiffness and joint pain in people with rheumatoid arthritis--improved bone density--improved lung function in asthmatics--reduced the symptoms of ADHD in young children and improvement in children's cognitive development.
What to do?? :o)
Focusing on adding the great Omega 3 foods to our diet is a great place to start, although some types of fish have contaminants in them and should be avoided. You may want to consider a quality supplement as well. Supplements purchased in drug stores & grocery stores vary extremely in quality and may have toxins such as mercury in them.
My family & I take a vegetable source of Omega's---a scientifically balanced, pure formulation. Let me know if you would like me to pass on info about it to check out. Another great example of a Totally Safe, Effective, Easy way to build wellness into your life!
Be Well & Enjoy Each Day--
Sana
Labels: nutrition, Omega 3 fatty acids, wellness draft 9:33:00 AM by Sana
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What are they??
Omega 3's are one of the 'fatty acids' that are essential for maintaining optimal health. They are a type of unsaturated fats, or “good” fats. These fatty acids are not naturally produced by the body but can be derived from our diet. They provide structural & metabolic functions in the brain & retina (eye) & assist in overall cell function in the body, for starters. A deficiency in Omega 3's may play a role in accelerated cerebral (brain) aging.
What's the difference between Omega 3's & Omega 6's??
Omega 6 fatty acids are also essential for optimal health and are found in eggs, cereals, breads, poultry, processed foods, margarine & most vegetable oils. The average American's diet is typically too high in Omega 6's. Sixty years ago, the ratio of Omega 6's to Omega 3's was a healthy, balanced 1 to 2. That ratio today is 25 to 1 (Carcinogenesis, Sept.2005).
What are the best sources of Omega 3's??
Salmon, sardines, mackerel, herring, albacore tuna, wild game, flaxseed, wheat germ, soybeans, walnuts, vegetable oils & green leafy vegetables.
What are the health benefits of regular intake of Omega 3's??
Reduced incidence of heart disease and strokes--lowered blood pressure & triglyceride levels--reduced incidence of depression, dementia & anxiety--prevention of migraines--prevention of diabetes complications--reduced cancer risk---anti-inflammatory effect, reduced stiffness and joint pain in people with rheumatoid arthritis--improved bone density--improved lung function in asthmatics--reduced the symptoms of ADHD in young children and improvement in children's cognitive development.
What to do?? :o)
Focusing on adding the great Omega 3 foods to our diet is a great place to start, although some types of fish have contaminants in them and should be avoided. You may want to consider a quality supplement as well. Supplements purchased in drug stores & grocery stores vary extremely in quality and may have toxins such as mercury in them.
My family & I take a vegetable source of Omega's---a scientifically balanced, pure formulation. Let me know if you would like me to pass on info about it to check out. Another great example of a Totally Safe, Effective, Easy way to build wellness into your life!
Be Well & Enjoy Each Day--
Sana
Labels: nutrition, Omega 3 fatty acids, wellness draft 9:33:00 AM by Sana
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Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Magnetics ...102?
Another little 'chunk' or byte of information on magnetics to hopefully assist you in understanding a bit more about why they work so well. I understand if you're wanting information about this technology---especially you analytical minds out there! (That was me, 12 years ago...)
Several points:
*Magnetic health products/devices have been around for hundreds of years in Europe and for thousands of years in Asia.
*The earth's magnetic field has been decreasing over the past years. In addition, we often 'insulate' ourselves from this natural, healthy magnetic field with our homes, our cars, for example (concrete, steel...any other materials that block, weaken or interfere with the earth's magnetic fields). This decreased exposure to natural magnetic fields can lead to 'Magnetic Field Deficiency Syndrome' with symptoms of fatigue, discomfort & overall worsening of health. Symptoms disappear when the body is exposed to naturally occurring magnetic fields.
*The use of AC (alternating current) wreaks havoc with normal magnetic fields in the body. Cell phones cause interference as well.
*To demonstrate the power & benefit of magnetic technology, Dr. N. Nakagawa conducted a study on 11,000 patients with muscle spasms---mainly in the neck & shoulder region---also going down the back. With magnetic technology, 90% were painfree.
*Studies like this abound--I'll share just one more: Dr. Antenucci treated 222 patients with acute & chronic muscle & joint pain with magnetic technology. 90% reported less pain within 5 days. The placebo group (control group) had only 14% with improvement.
*Magnetic technologies can help the body fight off bacteria, viruses and fungi. This occurs with the increased immune function by strengthening the white blood cells. A magnetic field can also act like an antibiotic by lowering the body's acidity (raising the pH). Check out other blogs about how extremely important this is! Those little microorganisms have a much harder time surviving in an alkaline environment.
*Magnetic technology (well-designed technology) enhances our energy levels by maintaining the correct polarization of the cells, allowing them to function most efficiently, providing us with greater energy.
Enough for now! The blog posts will be a bit sporadic over the next week or so with travels. Keep checking back for new info! I look forward to your comments and questions.
Take good care of you...
Sana
Several points:
*Magnetic health products/devices have been around for hundreds of years in Europe and for thousands of years in Asia.
*The earth's magnetic field has been decreasing over the past years. In addition, we often 'insulate' ourselves from this natural, healthy magnetic field with our homes, our cars, for example (concrete, steel...any other materials that block, weaken or interfere with the earth's magnetic fields). This decreased exposure to natural magnetic fields can lead to 'Magnetic Field Deficiency Syndrome' with symptoms of fatigue, discomfort & overall worsening of health. Symptoms disappear when the body is exposed to naturally occurring magnetic fields.
*The use of AC (alternating current) wreaks havoc with normal magnetic fields in the body. Cell phones cause interference as well.
*To demonstrate the power & benefit of magnetic technology, Dr. N. Nakagawa conducted a study on 11,000 patients with muscle spasms---mainly in the neck & shoulder region---also going down the back. With magnetic technology, 90% were painfree.
*Studies like this abound--I'll share just one more: Dr. Antenucci treated 222 patients with acute & chronic muscle & joint pain with magnetic technology. 90% reported less pain within 5 days. The placebo group (control group) had only 14% with improvement.
*Magnetic technologies can help the body fight off bacteria, viruses and fungi. This occurs with the increased immune function by strengthening the white blood cells. A magnetic field can also act like an antibiotic by lowering the body's acidity (raising the pH). Check out other blogs about how extremely important this is! Those little microorganisms have a much harder time surviving in an alkaline environment.
*Magnetic technology (well-designed technology) enhances our energy levels by maintaining the correct polarization of the cells, allowing them to function most efficiently, providing us with greater energy.
Enough for now! The blog posts will be a bit sporadic over the next week or so with travels. Keep checking back for new info! I look forward to your comments and questions.
Take good care of you...
Sana
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Chlorinated Water Consumption Does NOT = Health
I'm thinking you may have seen articles/commercials/news clips about how tap water is now the way to go for drinking water...I fully agree that bottled water has huge challenges in purity & quality (for starters!)---But chlorinated (tap) water is NOT the answer!
The prime reason for water disinfection is to decrease 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. Chlorine is used as a disinfectant because it is extremely chemically reactive.
It is becoming increasingly clear that chlorinated water and many of the chlorination by-products pose serious human health and environmental concerns. Chlorines rarely occur naturally so most living creatures, including humans, have not developed the means to detoxify them.
To date, chlorinated water & various chlorination by-products have been linked to numerous health challenges, including: CANCER, BIRTH DEFECTS, REPRODUCTIVE PROBLEMS, IMMUNE SYSTEM SUPPRESSION, NEUROLOGICAL PROBLEMS AND DAMAGE TO THE LIVER, KIDNEYS AND EYES. Drinking water is not the only way of absorbing toxic chlorine substances. It is also absorbed through the skin when bathing and showering. Trihalomethanes enter the lungs during showering. In comparison to ingested chemicals (like chlorine) which go through the liver, chemicals absorbed through the skin or inhaled enter the circulation immediately.
Many people believe that chlorine is effective at killing all disease-carrying organisms--actually it is not. Cryptosporidium, Giardia and various amoebae are capable of entering a cyst stage, which makes them extremely resistant to chlorine. The list of pathogens, which have caused disease outbreaks in chlorinated water systems, includes also enterovirus, hepatitis A, Norwalk agent and rotaviruses.
Bottom line? Chlorine (or derivatives) do a fair but not complete job of 'cleaning' our municipal water supplies. Chlorine was NEVER meant for us to drink/ingest or absorb during bathing.
My family & I are blessed to be using safe, effective filters for our drinking water and for showering. A very simple way to 'Build' wellness into our busy lives!
Blessings for good health and total wellness...
Sana
The prime reason for water disinfection is to decrease 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. Chlorine is used as a disinfectant because it is extremely chemically reactive.
It is becoming increasingly clear that chlorinated water and many of the chlorination by-products pose serious human health and environmental concerns. Chlorines rarely occur naturally so most living creatures, including humans, have not developed the means to detoxify them.
To date, chlorinated water & various chlorination by-products have been linked to numerous health challenges, including: CANCER, BIRTH DEFECTS, REPRODUCTIVE PROBLEMS, IMMUNE SYSTEM SUPPRESSION, NEUROLOGICAL PROBLEMS AND DAMAGE TO THE LIVER, KIDNEYS AND EYES. Drinking water is not the only way of absorbing toxic chlorine substances. It is also absorbed through the skin when bathing and showering. Trihalomethanes enter the lungs during showering. In comparison to ingested chemicals (like chlorine) which go through the liver, chemicals absorbed through the skin or inhaled enter the circulation immediately.
Many people believe that chlorine is effective at killing all disease-carrying organisms--actually it is not. Cryptosporidium, Giardia and various amoebae are capable of entering a cyst stage, which makes them extremely resistant to chlorine. The list of pathogens, which have caused disease outbreaks in chlorinated water systems, includes also enterovirus, hepatitis A, Norwalk agent and rotaviruses.
Bottom line? Chlorine (or derivatives) do a fair but not complete job of 'cleaning' our municipal water supplies. Chlorine was NEVER meant for us to drink/ingest or absorb during bathing.
My family & I are blessed to be using safe, effective filters for our drinking water and for showering. A very simple way to 'Build' wellness into our busy lives!
Blessings for good health and total wellness...
Sana
Friday, June 19, 2009
Energy from the Sun---Far Infrared, that is...
The term 'energy' tends to pique peoples' curiosity, especially as we get older---or start raising a family! Who wouldn't like more energy throughout their day? :o)
Far-Infrared (FIR) energy comes from the sun (a different wavelength from ultraviolet, visible light and radio waves). FIR penetrates beyond the skin level and is absorbed efficiently by the cells (visible light bounces off the skin surface).
Without going into the more complicated aspects of physics, Far-Infrared is able to penetrate more deeply than other parts of the light spectrum (to a depth of about 1to 1.6 inches) -- and stimulate your body cells in a beneficial way.
Benefits of Far-Infrared light include:
*Temporary relief of muscular pain and spasm...
*Relief of mild and occasional joint aches and stiffness...
*Providing a comforting feeling of penetrating warmth...
*Stimulating blood flow and circulation...
*Promoting a healthy immune system & metabolism...
*Elimination of waste from the body (detox), reducing the acidic level in our body & improving the nervous system
Additional benefits:
Prevention of bacterial growth
Softening of hard water
Purification of water
Speeding up repair of body cells
Balancing of the acid level in our body
Normalization of blood cholesterol
Maintenance of body warmth and better sleep
Sang Whang, the author of "Reverse Aging" claims that excess acids (potentially very harmful to our bodies) can be eliminated with the use of far infrared products, along with consuming certain alkaline minerals and foods. The far infrared technology heats up the internal temperature of the body, increasing circulation, thus enabling the blood to melt out the acidic toxins.
Some ways to receive infrared light rays includr infrared LED light devices, FIR comforters & FIR wraps for aching joints. Millions of people have used these devices to achieve comforting heat and some measure of temporary relief from pain and stiffness.
Wow---another Simple, SAFE & Effective way to build wellness into our lives...
Our family has benefitted from this technology for years!
I'm waiting for your questions and comments--
In good health...
Sana
Far-Infrared (FIR) energy comes from the sun (a different wavelength from ultraviolet, visible light and radio waves). FIR penetrates beyond the skin level and is absorbed efficiently by the cells (visible light bounces off the skin surface).
Without going into the more complicated aspects of physics, Far-Infrared is able to penetrate more deeply than other parts of the light spectrum (to a depth of about 1to 1.6 inches) -- and stimulate your body cells in a beneficial way.
Benefits of Far-Infrared light include:
*Temporary relief of muscular pain and spasm...
*Relief of mild and occasional joint aches and stiffness...
*Providing a comforting feeling of penetrating warmth...
*Stimulating blood flow and circulation...
*Promoting a healthy immune system & metabolism...
*Elimination of waste from the body (detox), reducing the acidic level in our body & improving the nervous system
Additional benefits:
Prevention of bacterial growth
Softening of hard water
Purification of water
Speeding up repair of body cells
Balancing of the acid level in our body
Normalization of blood cholesterol
Maintenance of body warmth and better sleep
Sang Whang, the author of "Reverse Aging" claims that excess acids (potentially very harmful to our bodies) can be eliminated with the use of far infrared products, along with consuming certain alkaline minerals and foods. The far infrared technology heats up the internal temperature of the body, increasing circulation, thus enabling the blood to melt out the acidic toxins.
Some ways to receive infrared light rays includr infrared LED light devices, FIR comforters & FIR wraps for aching joints. Millions of people have used these devices to achieve comforting heat and some measure of temporary relief from pain and stiffness.
Wow---another Simple, SAFE & Effective way to build wellness into our lives...
Our family has benefitted from this technology for years!
I'm waiting for your questions and comments--
In good health...
Sana
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Magnetics 101
I thought it may be helpful to list some of the more common uses of magnetic therapy to help in your process of becoming educated about this pretty amazing technology.
Below are some general uses for magnetic technology--as listed in Dr. Gary Null's book, Healing With Magnets:
*Relief from Hurt and Discomfort. The Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation publised a double-blind, placebo-controlled study with results confirming the effectiveness of magnet in relieving the pain of post-polio syndrome.
*Reduction of Inflammation and Improved Circulation
*Antimicrobial Effects
*Stress Reduction
*Correction of Central Nervous System Disorders
*Energy Enhancement
*Quicker Healing
*Increased Athletic Endurance and Performance
What an incredible list! Especially when you factor in that there are no side effects when using magnetic technology from a reputable company, as my family & I have done for the past 12 years.
More to come---to help with your understanding of this ancient (yet so new to so many of us!) technology. Just one bite at a time!
Blessings of Total Wellness to you...
Sana
Below are some general uses for magnetic technology--as listed in Dr. Gary Null's book, Healing With Magnets:
*Relief from Hurt and Discomfort. The Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation publised a double-blind, placebo-controlled study with results confirming the effectiveness of magnet in relieving the pain of post-polio syndrome.
*Reduction of Inflammation and Improved Circulation
*Antimicrobial Effects
*Stress Reduction
*Correction of Central Nervous System Disorders
*Energy Enhancement
*Quicker Healing
*Increased Athletic Endurance and Performance
What an incredible list! Especially when you factor in that there are no side effects when using magnetic technology from a reputable company, as my family & I have done for the past 12 years.
More to come---to help with your understanding of this ancient (yet so new to so many of us!) technology. Just one bite at a time!
Blessings of Total Wellness to you...
Sana
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Whole Food Nutrition, Page 2
I really don't like beating a topic to the ground, but some topics are pretty huge---and rather than having an extremely long blog entry, my goal is to give more 'bite-size' pieces of information.
So...a bit more on nutrition & supplements---NOT the boring stuff---just the stuff that is VERY important for you to know to help you in your decision-making processes for you and your family.
A powerful reference book that I never loan out to anyone (and I loan out alot of books!) is "Your Blood Never Lies" by Ted Aloisio. Ted is a Nutritional Microscopist and renowned lecturer on solid nutrition information. He bases his info on over 10,000 nutritional assessments. Pretty solid, I would say!
His book covers a variety of topics, including the world of nutritional supplements. A few facts from Ted:
*Supplements can be way off on active ingredient amounts" which means that we may think that we're getting a good amount of a supplement, when we're actually not. (Study from University of Toronto.)
*Ineffective blending of ingredients in many supplements can render them basically useless in the body. (Example: Vitamin B12 costs the most of B vitamins so it is usually supplied in lower than optimal quantities in supplements. This imbalance not only effects B12 levels, but also affects the utilization of the other B vitamins.)
*Questionable manufacturing techniques by some companies include the use of substances like shampoo, polyethylene glycol, cork & sand (to name a few). These may be used as binders to hold the pills together or to make them 'pop' out of the molds more easily.
*The amount of pressure used to compress some pills is sometimes hundreds of pounds. (I wonder how well those would dissove in the body!)
*The Journal of Chiropractic Economics reported a few years ago that 250,000 pounds of undigested multi-mineral and vitamin tablets and pills are pulled out of the Seattle, WA sewage filters every 6 weeks, many of them with the brand names still readable.
All this adds to the case for Whole Food Supplements, by which we can avoid 'all of the above!' Couple that with a healthy diet of 'whole foods' and your body will be smiling and saying Thank You in many different ways--
Be Well....
Sana
So...a bit more on nutrition & supplements---NOT the boring stuff---just the stuff that is VERY important for you to know to help you in your decision-making processes for you and your family.
A powerful reference book that I never loan out to anyone (and I loan out alot of books!) is "Your Blood Never Lies" by Ted Aloisio. Ted is a Nutritional Microscopist and renowned lecturer on solid nutrition information. He bases his info on over 10,000 nutritional assessments. Pretty solid, I would say!
His book covers a variety of topics, including the world of nutritional supplements. A few facts from Ted:
*Supplements can be way off on active ingredient amounts" which means that we may think that we're getting a good amount of a supplement, when we're actually not. (Study from University of Toronto.)
*Ineffective blending of ingredients in many supplements can render them basically useless in the body. (Example: Vitamin B12 costs the most of B vitamins so it is usually supplied in lower than optimal quantities in supplements. This imbalance not only effects B12 levels, but also affects the utilization of the other B vitamins.)
*Questionable manufacturing techniques by some companies include the use of substances like shampoo, polyethylene glycol, cork & sand (to name a few). These may be used as binders to hold the pills together or to make them 'pop' out of the molds more easily.
*The amount of pressure used to compress some pills is sometimes hundreds of pounds. (I wonder how well those would dissove in the body!)
*The Journal of Chiropractic Economics reported a few years ago that 250,000 pounds of undigested multi-mineral and vitamin tablets and pills are pulled out of the Seattle, WA sewage filters every 6 weeks, many of them with the brand names still readable.
All this adds to the case for Whole Food Supplements, by which we can avoid 'all of the above!' Couple that with a healthy diet of 'whole foods' and your body will be smiling and saying Thank You in many different ways--
Be Well....
Sana
Monday, June 15, 2009
Whole Foods---Aren't All Foods Whole Food??
Good question---about whole foods. One would think that 'whole foods' would refer to most, if not all, foods we eat.
Let's check it out:
Whole foods are defined as those that are unprocessed and unrefined, or processed and refined as little as possible before being consumed. They typically do not contain added ingredients, such as sugar, salt, or fat. They're also defined as natural foods and especially unprocessed ones (as vegetables or fruits).
A whole-food supplement, is one comprised of foods--not extracts, but entire foods, that have been concentrated into supplemental form. Isolated supplements are singular (or groups of individual) vitamins, minerals and/or amino acids.
Here's the BIG difference--that can make a BIG difference in our health: Whole foods contain vitamins, but vitamins never contain the rest of the whole-food "complex." Most of the nutritional supplements people are buying at their local drug store or grocery store fall into the 'vitamin/mineral' category---the synthetic version that has quite limited benefit in our bodies. That's not what our bodies are designed to benefit from. Our bodies most easily recognize 'whole food' supplements that have enzymes, cofactors, antioxidants, etc. that make it a complete source of nutrition.
Take the time to learn about synthetic vitamins/supplements vs. whole food supplements. Take the ultimate test and give your body a 3-month trial of whole food supplements and notice the difference. You won't switch back---and your body will thank you!
To your Total Wellness...
Sana
Let's check it out:
Whole foods are defined as those that are unprocessed and unrefined, or processed and refined as little as possible before being consumed. They typically do not contain added ingredients, such as sugar, salt, or fat. They're also defined as natural foods and especially unprocessed ones (as vegetables or fruits).
A whole-food supplement, is one comprised of foods--not extracts, but entire foods, that have been concentrated into supplemental form. Isolated supplements are singular (or groups of individual) vitamins, minerals and/or amino acids.
Here's the BIG difference--that can make a BIG difference in our health: Whole foods contain vitamins, but vitamins never contain the rest of the whole-food "complex." Most of the nutritional supplements people are buying at their local drug store or grocery store fall into the 'vitamin/mineral' category---the synthetic version that has quite limited benefit in our bodies. That's not what our bodies are designed to benefit from. Our bodies most easily recognize 'whole food' supplements that have enzymes, cofactors, antioxidants, etc. that make it a complete source of nutrition.
Take the time to learn about synthetic vitamins/supplements vs. whole food supplements. Take the ultimate test and give your body a 3-month trial of whole food supplements and notice the difference. You won't switch back---and your body will thank you!
To your Total Wellness...
Sana
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Swine Flu Pandemic--Digging Even Deeper
How does a series of 3 shots sound as a way to possibly keep you from getting the flu? According to a 'Swine Flu' article in the June 12, 2009 Arizona Republic, people would need more than one shot & possibly as many as 3 to 'fully protect' them. Two shots of the swine flu vaccine may be needed because the vaccine's development is still in early stages. That basically means that it's not a solid solution at this point---and it could have problems and side effects associated with it.
Please take the time to learn about vaccines such as these before consenting to them for yourself and for your family members (including small children!)
Some points to consider:
**Two years ago (in 2006) a study in the British Medical Journal concluded that the effectiveness of annual flu shots has been exaggerated, and that in reality they have little or no effect on influenza campaign objectives, including reducing the number of hospital stays, time off work, and death from influenza and its complications.
**Another study from 2005, published in the Archives of Internal Medicine also could not find support for the use of flu vaccine to prevent deaths in the elderly. The report highlights that although immunization rates in people over 65 have increased dramatically in the past 20 years, there has not been a consequent decline in flu-related deaths.
**A study published in the October 2008 issue of the 'Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine' found that vaccinating young children against the flu had no impact on flu-related hospitalizations or doctor visits during two recent flu seasons. The researchers concluded that "significant influenza vaccine effectiveness could not be demonstrated for any season, age, or setting" examined.
**A recent study published in the Lancet found that influenza vaccination was NOT associated with a reduced risk of pneumonia in older people. Vaccination coverage among the elderly increased from 15 percent in 1980 to 65 percent now, yet there has been no decrease in deaths from influenza or pneumonia.
**A similar study, published in The New England Journal of Medicine, concluded that vaccination against pneumonia does not reduce your risk of contracting the disease.
**Research published in the American Journal of Respiratory Care and Critical Care Medicine also confirmed that there has been no decrease in deaths from influenza and pneumonia, despite the fact that vaccination coverage among the elderly has increased from 15 percent in 1980 to 65 percent now.
**A large-scale, systematic review of 51 studies, published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews in 2006, found no evidence that the flu vaccine is any more effective than a placebo in children. The studies involved 260,000 children, age 6 to 23 months.
Why am I still on my soapbox about this? Because there are SAFE and EFFECTIVE ways to protect yourself and your family from viruses like this. Keeping our immune systems strong so they can fight off infections like this is the simple, logical, most cost-effective longterm approach out there. We impact our immune systems through our sleep, basic nutrition, the air we breathe...just what we find in a Wellness Home!
I look forward to your questions and comments---
Be well...
Sana
Please take the time to learn about vaccines such as these before consenting to them for yourself and for your family members (including small children!)
Some points to consider:
**Two years ago (in 2006) a study in the British Medical Journal concluded that the effectiveness of annual flu shots has been exaggerated, and that in reality they have little or no effect on influenza campaign objectives, including reducing the number of hospital stays, time off work, and death from influenza and its complications.
**Another study from 2005, published in the Archives of Internal Medicine also could not find support for the use of flu vaccine to prevent deaths in the elderly. The report highlights that although immunization rates in people over 65 have increased dramatically in the past 20 years, there has not been a consequent decline in flu-related deaths.
**A study published in the October 2008 issue of the 'Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine' found that vaccinating young children against the flu had no impact on flu-related hospitalizations or doctor visits during two recent flu seasons. The researchers concluded that "significant influenza vaccine effectiveness could not be demonstrated for any season, age, or setting" examined.
**A recent study published in the Lancet found that influenza vaccination was NOT associated with a reduced risk of pneumonia in older people. Vaccination coverage among the elderly increased from 15 percent in 1980 to 65 percent now, yet there has been no decrease in deaths from influenza or pneumonia.
**A similar study, published in The New England Journal of Medicine, concluded that vaccination against pneumonia does not reduce your risk of contracting the disease.
**Research published in the American Journal of Respiratory Care and Critical Care Medicine also confirmed that there has been no decrease in deaths from influenza and pneumonia, despite the fact that vaccination coverage among the elderly has increased from 15 percent in 1980 to 65 percent now.
**A large-scale, systematic review of 51 studies, published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews in 2006, found no evidence that the flu vaccine is any more effective than a placebo in children. The studies involved 260,000 children, age 6 to 23 months.
Why am I still on my soapbox about this? Because there are SAFE and EFFECTIVE ways to protect yourself and your family from viruses like this. Keeping our immune systems strong so they can fight off infections like this is the simple, logical, most cost-effective longterm approach out there. We impact our immune systems through our sleep, basic nutrition, the air we breathe...just what we find in a Wellness Home!
I look forward to your questions and comments---
Be well...
Sana
Friday, June 12, 2009
Swine Flu Pandemic--EFFECTIVE Measures To Take
The New York Times' headline today is that the World Health Organization has declared that the swine flu outbreak is a pandemic. According to the article, this announcement does not mean that the illness, which has been mild in most people, has become any worse. The term pandemic reflects only the geographic spread of a new disease, not its severity. Pandemics typically infect about a third of the world in a year or two, and sometimes strike in successive waves.
It also means that the health organization is asking drug makers to start making vaccine as quickly as possible, with the hope of having some batches ready by September. Efforts to make a vaccine are under way, and stockpiles of antiviral drugs have been opened.
Let's stop right there and dig a little deeper...
Vaccines are big business for many pharmaceutical companies. Vaccines will generate $21.5 billion in annual sales for their makers by 2012. Time magazine published an article (4/27/2009) reminding us of the huge problems that resulted from vaccines given during the 1976 swine flu fiasco. After several soldiers at Fort Dix had gotten the flu, the Ford administration attempted to use 'flu scare' at Fort Dix as a good reason for a mass vaccination of the entire country. Within a few months, claims totaling $1.3 billion had been filed by victims who had suffered paralysis (Guillain-Barre Syndrome) from the vaccine. Healthy young people ended up as paraplegics. The vaccine was also blamed for 25 deaths. The swine flu epidemic never materialized.
I'll have more info on the effectiveness of specific swine flu vaccines very soon. For now, let's look at one of the highly touted medications recommended for those who may possibly have the flu: Tamiflu.
The timing of this swine flu pandemic is quite convenient for governments that would soon have to dispose of billions of dollars of Tamiflu stock, which they bought to counter avian flu (H5N1). The US government ordered 20 million doses, costing $2 billion, in October, 2005, and the UK government ordered 14 million doses. The shelf life of the anti-viral, Tamiflu is three years.
Tamiflu is NOT a safe drug Serious side effects include convulsions, delirium or delusions. Tamiflu is blamed for 14 deaths in kids. Japan banned Tamiflu for children in 2007. This is when the FDA began investigating over 1,800 adverse (bad) reactions to the drug. When Tamiflu is used as prescribed, it can only reduce the duration of symptoms by 24-36 hours, according to the official data---with a cost of over $100.
Wouldn’t it make more sense to practice basic health measures, such as getting adequate sleep each night, supplementing our healthy eating with basic nutrition that promotes a healthy immune system (like the whole food mushroom blend I described yesterday!), drinking adequate amounts of filtered water, and frequent hand washing? As “Owners” of our health, it’s our responsibility to gather adequate information before making decisions that can have a big impact on our health.
Thank you for taking time to learn how to best protect yourself and your family. Here's to a 'flu-less' season...a 'flu-less' year!
Sana
It also means that the health organization is asking drug makers to start making vaccine as quickly as possible, with the hope of having some batches ready by September. Efforts to make a vaccine are under way, and stockpiles of antiviral drugs have been opened.
Let's stop right there and dig a little deeper...
Vaccines are big business for many pharmaceutical companies. Vaccines will generate $21.5 billion in annual sales for their makers by 2012. Time magazine published an article (4/27/2009) reminding us of the huge problems that resulted from vaccines given during the 1976 swine flu fiasco. After several soldiers at Fort Dix had gotten the flu, the Ford administration attempted to use 'flu scare' at Fort Dix as a good reason for a mass vaccination of the entire country. Within a few months, claims totaling $1.3 billion had been filed by victims who had suffered paralysis (Guillain-Barre Syndrome) from the vaccine. Healthy young people ended up as paraplegics. The vaccine was also blamed for 25 deaths. The swine flu epidemic never materialized.
I'll have more info on the effectiveness of specific swine flu vaccines very soon. For now, let's look at one of the highly touted medications recommended for those who may possibly have the flu: Tamiflu.
The timing of this swine flu pandemic is quite convenient for governments that would soon have to dispose of billions of dollars of Tamiflu stock, which they bought to counter avian flu (H5N1). The US government ordered 20 million doses, costing $2 billion, in October, 2005, and the UK government ordered 14 million doses. The shelf life of the anti-viral, Tamiflu is three years.
Tamiflu is NOT a safe drug Serious side effects include convulsions, delirium or delusions. Tamiflu is blamed for 14 deaths in kids. Japan banned Tamiflu for children in 2007. This is when the FDA began investigating over 1,800 adverse (bad) reactions to the drug. When Tamiflu is used as prescribed, it can only reduce the duration of symptoms by 24-36 hours, according to the official data---with a cost of over $100.
Wouldn’t it make more sense to practice basic health measures, such as getting adequate sleep each night, supplementing our healthy eating with basic nutrition that promotes a healthy immune system (like the whole food mushroom blend I described yesterday!), drinking adequate amounts of filtered water, and frequent hand washing? As “Owners” of our health, it’s our responsibility to gather adequate information before making decisions that can have a big impact on our health.
Thank you for taking time to learn how to best protect yourself and your family. Here's to a 'flu-less' season...a 'flu-less' year!
Sana
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Mushrooms...Not Just For Dinner Any More!
Who would have thought that mushrooms would be good for more than making a good steak great---or adding that extra goodness to a tossed salad? Hmmm....the Chinese (for the last 4000 years), for starters!
Mushrooms are probiotic in nature (probiotic means “for life." They are live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts, provide a beneficial health effect). They help our bodies keep strong and fight off illnesses. Mushrooms tend to have pretty cool, hard to pronounce names as well: Agaricus Blazei, Phellinus Linteus, Lepiota Procera...to name a few!
When I was first introduced to the concept of mushrooms for health, I looked up the mushrooms listed in the 'whole food' preparation of the 14 mushroom blend I was checking out. Look at the functions of these mushrooms:
Mushrooms are probiotic in nature (probiotic means “for life." They are live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts, provide a beneficial health effect). They help our bodies keep strong and fight off illnesses. Mushrooms tend to have pretty cool, hard to pronounce names as well: Agaricus Blazei, Phellinus Linteus, Lepiota Procera...to name a few!
When I was first introduced to the concept of mushrooms for health, I looked up the mushrooms listed in the 'whole food' preparation of the 14 mushroom blend I was checking out. Look at the functions of these mushrooms:
MAITAKE--Stimulate T-cells 2000-3000%
AGARICUS BLAZEI--Stimulate NK cells 5000-6000% REISHI---Longevity—Tonic for Cholesterol/Liver
CORDYCEPS SINESIS---Strength—Endurance—Oxygenation
SHIITAKE---Licensed as anti-cancer drug by Japanese FDA—Anti-viral
PHELLINUS LINTEUS---Anti-tumor
TRAMETES VERSICOLOR---Used as anti-cancer drug in Japan
HERICUM ERIANCEUS---Digestive Tonic—Energy boosting
TREMELLA MESENTERICA---Anti-tumor
PLEUROTUS TUBER-REGIUM---Anti-tumor—Beta Glucans (anti-cancer/anti-tumor)
OYSTER---Anti-tumor—Cholesterol lowering
CHAGA---Immune system modulator
LEPIOTA PROCERA---Beta Glucans
ENOKI---Anti-tumor
Whole-food mushroom blends are designed to 'feed' our immune systems to keep them strong. My family & I take this blend every day---to help keep our immune systems as strong as possible AND to build prevention of disease into our daily lives.
Something so simple...so safe...with potential to make such a difference in our lives and in the lives of those we love. Reply/Comment back if you have questions---That's what I'm here for!
Stay well & enjoy your summer...
Sana
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Water Basics
Now that you've learned about the importance of drinking adequate amounts of water from yesterday's post (1/2 your body weight in ounces each day), let's check out some of the more common types of water that we may have access to.
*Tap water has chlorine (or some derivative of it), along with a multitude of other chemicals that were never intended for our bodies. Chlorine is a cancer-causing agent---we need to make sure it's out of our water before drinking!
*Well water doesn't have chlorine, but may have disease-causing organisms as well as chemicals and other contaminants from the ground around it.
*Bottled water is often nothing more than water from a municipal (town) supply that has been run through a simple carbon filter. Articles abound with test results showing the multiple contaminants found in random water bottle testing. And that doesn't even take into account the huge problem of plastic bottle waste.
*Distilled water can still contain heavy metals, including arsenic as well as organic chemicals. The alkalinizing minerals are removed, leaving the water acidic (not what our bodies are looking for!)
*Reverse osmosis water can still contain organic chemicals. The process is slow and wastes water. It also removes all of the minerals from the water, leaving it acidic.
My family & I use a filtration method that incorporates carbon filtration, along with magnetic and mineral components in an easy to use system that provides us with filtered, energized, mineralized water. I encourage you to do your homework and research to find the best filtration for you and your family. The end-resulting water should be slightly alkaline. Then invest in some inexpensive "BPA-free" plastic bottles (I found ours at Target) for your family's water bottles. We each have our own color (mine is blue) to minimize confusion. With this setup, we don't buy bottled water, which is a great way to save some $$---along with being "green"!
Remember...1/2 your body weight in ounces each day---more when you're working out!
Stay well...
Sana
*Tap water has chlorine (or some derivative of it), along with a multitude of other chemicals that were never intended for our bodies. Chlorine is a cancer-causing agent---we need to make sure it's out of our water before drinking!
*Well water doesn't have chlorine, but may have disease-causing organisms as well as chemicals and other contaminants from the ground around it.
*Bottled water is often nothing more than water from a municipal (town) supply that has been run through a simple carbon filter. Articles abound with test results showing the multiple contaminants found in random water bottle testing. And that doesn't even take into account the huge problem of plastic bottle waste.
*Distilled water can still contain heavy metals, including arsenic as well as organic chemicals. The alkalinizing minerals are removed, leaving the water acidic (not what our bodies are looking for!)
*Reverse osmosis water can still contain organic chemicals. The process is slow and wastes water. It also removes all of the minerals from the water, leaving it acidic.
My family & I use a filtration method that incorporates carbon filtration, along with magnetic and mineral components in an easy to use system that provides us with filtered, energized, mineralized water. I encourage you to do your homework and research to find the best filtration for you and your family. The end-resulting water should be slightly alkaline. Then invest in some inexpensive "BPA-free" plastic bottles (I found ours at Target) for your family's water bottles. We each have our own color (mine is blue) to minimize confusion. With this setup, we don't buy bottled water, which is a great way to save some $$---along with being "green"!
Remember...1/2 your body weight in ounces each day---more when you're working out!
Stay well...
Sana
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
The Heartburn-Dehydration Connection
Heartburn is 'big business' in the pharmaceutical world , with magical little purple pills...or green ones...I'm sure there are pink ones as well! We know that is one way to treat the symptom of heartburn.
What if heartburn could be managed in a much simpler, much less expensive & much SAFER way? Hmmm....Let's look at what heartburn is, first. Heartburn is a signal of dehydration in our body. It's one of the body's ways of signaling thirst. Heartburn is NOT a disease, which most related commercials would lead a person to believe.
The use of heartburn medications and antacids obviously doesn't correct the dehydration and can ultimately lead to inflammation of the esophagus, stomach & rest of the GI tract.
A good rule of thumb for adequate water intake is drinking half your body weight (lbs) in ounces each day (more when working out & sweating). Example: a person weighing 140 lb should drink at least 70 ounces of water daily.
Some tips to increase your water intake: Take a glass of water into your bedroom or bathroom at night and drink it first thing when you wake up in the morning---Drink a glass of water before each meal---Keep a notepad handy to track the number of glasses of water consumed each day until you reach your goal---Imagine a water tank in your body that gets empty on a regular basis each day (just like your car's gas tank) so as you are drinking water during the day you can visualize 'filling your tank' and keeping it filled!
I'll have information on water quality and the difference between various types of water, including distilled and reverse osmosis water in upcoming blogs.
Reference to information in this blog:
"Water Cures: Drugs Kill--How Waer Cured Incurable Diseases" F. Batmanghelidj, MD. Global Health Solutions, Inc. Nov. 2003.
"Water-The Ultimate Cure: S. Meyerowitz. Book Publishing Co. Oct. 2001.
www.watercure.com
May you be blessed with wellness...
Sana
What if heartburn could be managed in a much simpler, much less expensive & much SAFER way? Hmmm....Let's look at what heartburn is, first. Heartburn is a signal of dehydration in our body. It's one of the body's ways of signaling thirst. Heartburn is NOT a disease, which most related commercials would lead a person to believe.
The use of heartburn medications and antacids obviously doesn't correct the dehydration and can ultimately lead to inflammation of the esophagus, stomach & rest of the GI tract.
A good rule of thumb for adequate water intake is drinking half your body weight (lbs) in ounces each day (more when working out & sweating). Example: a person weighing 140 lb should drink at least 70 ounces of water daily.
Some tips to increase your water intake: Take a glass of water into your bedroom or bathroom at night and drink it first thing when you wake up in the morning---Drink a glass of water before each meal---Keep a notepad handy to track the number of glasses of water consumed each day until you reach your goal---Imagine a water tank in your body that gets empty on a regular basis each day (just like your car's gas tank) so as you are drinking water during the day you can visualize 'filling your tank' and keeping it filled!
I'll have information on water quality and the difference between various types of water, including distilled and reverse osmosis water in upcoming blogs.
Reference to information in this blog:
"Water Cures: Drugs Kill--How Waer Cured Incurable Diseases" F. Batmanghelidj, MD. Global Health Solutions, Inc. Nov. 2003.
"Water-The Ultimate Cure: S. Meyerowitz. Book Publishing Co. Oct. 2001.
www.watercure.com
May you be blessed with wellness...
Sana
Friday, June 5, 2009
The pH Balancing Act
Now that we've learned a bit about why it's crucial to keep our bodies slightly alkaline, how about finding out how to do just that?
My family and I, along with millions of others around the world have found simple, SAFE & effective ways to promote an alkaline environment in our bodies. The 3 basic areas where we impact the pH of our bodies are Sleep, Water and Nutrition. All three are part of the whole wellness picture or wellness home environment.
We impact our body's pH during sleep by using specially designed sleep pads, pillows and comforters with magnetic, far infrared and negative ion technologies. The water we drink is filtered, energized and slightly alkaline, after passing through a specialized filtration unit. (Distilled water and reverse osmosis water are both quite acidic---more on that later!) We also take a certain green barley extract (mixed in water or juice) that promotes alkalinity. That's the nutrition component.
Very simple, easy to incorporate into our busy lifestyles---and powerful in their effects.
Tomorrow: The link between heartburn (the body being too acidic) and water intake.
To your health...
Sana
My family and I, along with millions of others around the world have found simple, SAFE & effective ways to promote an alkaline environment in our bodies. The 3 basic areas where we impact the pH of our bodies are Sleep, Water and Nutrition. All three are part of the whole wellness picture or wellness home environment.
We impact our body's pH during sleep by using specially designed sleep pads, pillows and comforters with magnetic, far infrared and negative ion technologies. The water we drink is filtered, energized and slightly alkaline, after passing through a specialized filtration unit. (Distilled water and reverse osmosis water are both quite acidic---more on that later!) We also take a certain green barley extract (mixed in water or juice) that promotes alkalinity. That's the nutrition component.
Very simple, easy to incorporate into our busy lifestyles---and powerful in their effects.
Tomorrow: The link between heartburn (the body being too acidic) and water intake.
To your health...
Sana
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