Sniffling season has begun. Whether you are at the grocery store, the bank, your local coffee store, etc. you will hear everyone complain about their runny noses, watering eyes, and scratchy throats. Piling prescription, over the counter and nutritional supplements into the shopping carts is a new fad at this time.
Instead of spending more money, we can educate ourselves on how allergies are caused. Instead of focusing on stopping the body within its healing process, you will be given the empowerment to overcome them year after year!
There are two types of allergies, or rhinitis, which is allergic rhinitis and non-allergice rhinitis.
Rhinitis is an inflammatory reaction in the eyes, nose and throat. Most of our issues within an allergic reaction. This is usually caused by an airborne irritant that triggers Histamine.
If you already have allergies then you know the symptoms that accompany it. Such as, runny nose, congested nose, itchy, watery eyes, nose or throat, coughing and sneezing and also more fatigue!
Some of the health problems associated with allergies are gastrointestinal symptoms (like gas, indigestion or diarrhea), earaches, swollen lymph nodes, asthma, skin rashes/itching, and chronic sinusitis.
Allergic Rhinitis has two types as well. The first being Seasonal rhinitis. Seasonal is usually triggered by plant pollens. The second is non-seasonal which is usually triggered by airborne irritants. Such as, dust, mold, smoke, animal dander, straw or hay, and chemicals. This one most commonly is also triggered by food sensitivities or drugs that we do not even think about.
To begin stopping the non-allergic rhinitis, you can eliminate household cleaning products and other chemicals, purchase an air filtration system and drink plenty of clean water.
The 7 underlying causes of Allergies are:
1. Unlderlying food allergies
2. Intestinal inflammation and leaky gut syndrome
3. Liver Problems
4. Exposure to toxins
5. Inhibited lymphatic drainage
6. Nutritional deficiencies
7. Adrenal insufficiency
Almost all of these are able to be controlled through nutrition, exercise, relaxation and any other type of positive lifestyle change.
Becoming aware and educating ourselves is where to begin to better all of our lives!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Monday, April 5, 2010
Natural Ways Control Your Blood Sugar
Natural News
by Danna Norek
Diabetes has run rampant in our society today. The sad part is that the majority of diabetes cases here in the US can be prevented via dietary and lifestyle changes. Instead, we`ve been over medicated with insulin shots and other diabetic medications.
Granted, there are some people who are born with strong genetic predisposition to diabetes that need this type of more radical treatment. Those that are insulin dependent just may need to undergo medical treatment. However, the vast majority of diabetics have "acquired" diabetes. How does that happen?
Most of the time, those who get diabetes later in life had some sort of genetic factor which facilitated its development. Diet is the number one factor identified as causing this jump from pre-diabetic conditions to diabetes. The kicker is that these diet modifications not only apply to diabetes, but also positively impact every facet of your health.
Obesity, for example, is a risk factor behind diabetes. Diet is strongly correlated with your body`s ability to accurately and evenly regulate your blood sugar. In a society that focuses on cheap, processed foods that are loaded with sugar and simple carbohydrates, it`s no surprise that we have such a huge problem on our hands.
So, what are some of the ways you can naturally regulate your blood sugar and help prevent diabetes from setting in? One of the best ways to avoid extreme highs and lows in your blood sugar is to eat small "mini meals" or snacks, about five times a day.
This approach is much better than loading up three times a day on large meals. With the smaller portioned "grazing" approach, you are providing your body with steady fuel throughout the day. This also helps to prevent obesity by preventing those peaks and valleys in your blood sugar levels that lead to gluttony.
The foods you choose also count greatly toward your effort at naturally regulating your blood sugar. There are the obvious foods you should avoid, such as sugary sweets and refined carbohydrates. But there are also others to consider avoiding or minimizing.
Vegetables are a great food choice because they contain natural fiber, which helps slow the release of insulin into the blood stream. There are a few veggies to avoid, including potatoes, eggplant, corn and other starchy ones. These tend to break down quickly in your digestive tract, and they release insulin quickly, creating those peaks and valleys we talked about earlier.
Fruits are ok, but need to be chosen and eaten with some caution. They are better than refined sugar because they are a natural sugar, and they also contain fiber. However, over consumption can cause blood sugar spikes. Also, go for the darker colored veggies, which tend to be lower on the impact scale than fruits like pineapple, mango and other sugary tropical fruits.
Black beans, white beans, and kidney beans are all excellent foods to choose. Their density and fiber content help slow the release of carbohydrates and sugars into the blood stream. Because the secretion is slowed down, you get a steadier level of sugars for a longer period of time.
What about dietary supplements that might help control blood sugar? Try the antioxidant powerhouse alpha lipoic acid. This essential acid actually helps break down and convert glucose into energy. Studies have indicated that taking this supplement (on an empty stomach for better absorption) helped to regulate blood sugar levels for a longer time than without the supplement.
Sources : http://www.healthinsite.gov.au/topi...
http://www.rd.com/living-healthy/10...
http://altmedicine.about.com/od/alp...
More Relating Articles Found at NaturalNews.com
by Danna Norek
Diabetes has run rampant in our society today. The sad part is that the majority of diabetes cases here in the US can be prevented via dietary and lifestyle changes. Instead, we`ve been over medicated with insulin shots and other diabetic medications.
Granted, there are some people who are born with strong genetic predisposition to diabetes that need this type of more radical treatment. Those that are insulin dependent just may need to undergo medical treatment. However, the vast majority of diabetics have "acquired" diabetes. How does that happen?
Most of the time, those who get diabetes later in life had some sort of genetic factor which facilitated its development. Diet is the number one factor identified as causing this jump from pre-diabetic conditions to diabetes. The kicker is that these diet modifications not only apply to diabetes, but also positively impact every facet of your health.
Obesity, for example, is a risk factor behind diabetes. Diet is strongly correlated with your body`s ability to accurately and evenly regulate your blood sugar. In a society that focuses on cheap, processed foods that are loaded with sugar and simple carbohydrates, it`s no surprise that we have such a huge problem on our hands.
So, what are some of the ways you can naturally regulate your blood sugar and help prevent diabetes from setting in? One of the best ways to avoid extreme highs and lows in your blood sugar is to eat small "mini meals" or snacks, about five times a day.
This approach is much better than loading up three times a day on large meals. With the smaller portioned "grazing" approach, you are providing your body with steady fuel throughout the day. This also helps to prevent obesity by preventing those peaks and valleys in your blood sugar levels that lead to gluttony.
The foods you choose also count greatly toward your effort at naturally regulating your blood sugar. There are the obvious foods you should avoid, such as sugary sweets and refined carbohydrates. But there are also others to consider avoiding or minimizing.
Vegetables are a great food choice because they contain natural fiber, which helps slow the release of insulin into the blood stream. There are a few veggies to avoid, including potatoes, eggplant, corn and other starchy ones. These tend to break down quickly in your digestive tract, and they release insulin quickly, creating those peaks and valleys we talked about earlier.
Fruits are ok, but need to be chosen and eaten with some caution. They are better than refined sugar because they are a natural sugar, and they also contain fiber. However, over consumption can cause blood sugar spikes. Also, go for the darker colored veggies, which tend to be lower on the impact scale than fruits like pineapple, mango and other sugary tropical fruits.
Black beans, white beans, and kidney beans are all excellent foods to choose. Their density and fiber content help slow the release of carbohydrates and sugars into the blood stream. Because the secretion is slowed down, you get a steadier level of sugars for a longer period of time.
What about dietary supplements that might help control blood sugar? Try the antioxidant powerhouse alpha lipoic acid. This essential acid actually helps break down and convert glucose into energy. Studies have indicated that taking this supplement (on an empty stomach for better absorption) helped to regulate blood sugar levels for a longer time than without the supplement.
Sources : http://www.healthinsite.gov.au/topi...
http://www.rd.com/living-healthy/10...
http://altmedicine.about.com/od/alp...
More Relating Articles Found at NaturalNews.com
Diabetes drug linked to kidney problems, but FDA keeps it on the market anyway
Natural News
by David Gutierrez
Three days after approving the Eli Lilly and Amylin Pharmaceuticals drug Byetta as a stand-alone treatment for Type 2 diabetes, the FDA announced that the drug has been linked to kidney damage.
"Health care professionals and patients taking Byetta should pay close attention to any signs or symptoms of kidney problems," said Amy Egan of the metabolism and endocrinology products division.
Byetta (known generically as exenatide) was first approved in 2005 for use in conjunction with other diabetes drugs only if a patient's blood sugar was failing to respond well to primary treatment. In 2007, the drug was linked to an increased risk of acute pancreatitis, a severe and potentially fatal inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms of the condition include severe abdominal pain, sometimes with nausea and vomiting.
Even when the pancreas is unharmed, Byetta may still cause nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. The latter two conditions may place stress on the kidneys.
"It is thought that the main reason nausea occurs is the effects of Byetta on the stomach," said Richard Hellman of the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine. "If someone starts vomiting, they can lower the volume of fluid in their body. If it gets to dangerously low levels, their kidneys could be damaged and kidney failure could take place."
Although diabetes itself is a major cause of kidney failure, FDA reports show that among the 80 percent of patients who stopped taking Byetta after kidney symptoms emerged, 50 percent recovered.
The FDA now recommends that Byetta patients be carefully monitored for signs of kidney dysfunction, and that the drug be used cautiously in those with mild or moderate kidney impairment. The drug should not be used in patients with severe kidney failure.
"Before any patient takes Byetta, they should ask their physician whether they have decreased function of their kidneys and whether their kidneys are functioning well enough that taking Byetta would not be hazardous to their health," Hellman said.
Sources for this story include: www.reuters.com; www.cnn.com.
More Articles like this at Natural News.com
by David Gutierrez
Three days after approving the Eli Lilly and Amylin Pharmaceuticals drug Byetta as a stand-alone treatment for Type 2 diabetes, the FDA announced that the drug has been linked to kidney damage.
"Health care professionals and patients taking Byetta should pay close attention to any signs or symptoms of kidney problems," said Amy Egan of the metabolism and endocrinology products division.
Byetta (known generically as exenatide) was first approved in 2005 for use in conjunction with other diabetes drugs only if a patient's blood sugar was failing to respond well to primary treatment. In 2007, the drug was linked to an increased risk of acute pancreatitis, a severe and potentially fatal inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms of the condition include severe abdominal pain, sometimes with nausea and vomiting.
Even when the pancreas is unharmed, Byetta may still cause nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. The latter two conditions may place stress on the kidneys.
"It is thought that the main reason nausea occurs is the effects of Byetta on the stomach," said Richard Hellman of the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine. "If someone starts vomiting, they can lower the volume of fluid in their body. If it gets to dangerously low levels, their kidneys could be damaged and kidney failure could take place."
Although diabetes itself is a major cause of kidney failure, FDA reports show that among the 80 percent of patients who stopped taking Byetta after kidney symptoms emerged, 50 percent recovered.
The FDA now recommends that Byetta patients be carefully monitored for signs of kidney dysfunction, and that the drug be used cautiously in those with mild or moderate kidney impairment. The drug should not be used in patients with severe kidney failure.
"Before any patient takes Byetta, they should ask their physician whether they have decreased function of their kidneys and whether their kidneys are functioning well enough that taking Byetta would not be hazardous to their health," Hellman said.
Sources for this story include: www.reuters.com; www.cnn.com.
More Articles like this at Natural News.com
The Underlying Issue of Disease
When we look at disease and illness we describe how we feel. We state the obvious and only address the symptoms. When addressing just the symptoms the actual cause of the issue still continues its devious acts to take our bodies down!
I will be unveiling the true culprit that underlies disease and illness, how to suppress it naturally, and to keep it from ruining the rest of your life.
So, what is the culprit anyway? It is Inflammation!
What is inflammation?
Inflammation is the body's initial response to irritation, tissue damage or infection. Symptoms of inflammation is heat,which is caused by increased cellular activity and oxidation at site of damage, swelling, which is dilation of the capillary pores allowing the fluid and protein to move into tissue space that increases quantities; this also allows white blood cells into the area, redness,which is increased blood flow to the area and pain, this is when the tissue swells and puts pressure on nerves and lack of oxygen to tissues.
Ever go to the doctor and get diagnosed with an "itis"? What is an "itis"? Most common ones are arthritis, bronchitis, appendicitis, laryngitis, sinusitis, tonsilitis...etc. Inflammation is also involved in heart disease, autoimmune disorders, aging, cancer, allergies, and much more!
Now inflammation can be healthy! It shows us that our body is fighting infections, repairing, and processing toxins. We just stop it from letting it cleanse itself!
The initial phase of acute inflammation begins with tissue damage. Normally caused by bacterial or microbial toxins, heat or radiation, trauma, allergens, etc. When the tissue is damaged this causes the release of histamine, which is followed by a release of bradykinin, serotonin and other chemicals. When these specific chemicals are released they dilate capillary pores and initiate inflammation.
Next, Eicosanoids, these increase permeability of blood vessels to create more swelling, are released to open the blood vessels so white blood cells can get to the damaged area. Histamine and leukotrienes cause bronchial constriction and increased mucus production this helps to flush the irritants out of the mucus membranes!
The third phase of inflammation is that more eicosonoids signal blood cells. White blood cells use free radicals to destroy microbes. Unfortunately, through this process it can damage healthy cells. This is why Antioxidants are extremely important to use daily. Antioxidants help protect healthy cells from immune damage.
Now the best phase of inflammation is the HEALING PHASE. Yes, if we stop trying to control our body and become obstacles we do not heal. When we let things be and support our body it heals itself. Now, cortisol is secreted to shut down eicosanoid production and mediate the inflammatory response. Macrophages clean up the debris and regeneration begins!
Inflammation is very common these days. Some ways that we provoke it would be where we live, our stress levels, processed foods, and unhealthy water. When we take most of these away (which usually we cannot help the pollution within our environment, can always begin helping) inflammation is less likely to harm us.
Some ways to keep inflammation away is making sure our detoxifying organs are up to par. One being the Lymphatic System.
There are even lymphatic drainage massages. Ways to keep pain down are through bodywork, deep breathing, stretching, yoga, energy healing work, etc.
Dealing with chronic inflammation may be a bit more difficult. Reason why you want to catch inflammation in its beginning stages. There are four stages of disease. Acute(irritation), Subacute inflammation(congestion and stagnation), Chronic Inflammation(low grade inflammation) and tissue depression, Degeneration and tissue breakdown!
Some possible symptoms of chronic inflammation would be: excess weight, brittle fingernails, limp hair, sleepiness, constipation, fatigue, groggy upon waking, constant hunger, carb cravings, lack of mental concentration, dark red tongue, aches and pains, dry skin, and gum disease.
Going back to having "guts" to being healthy, the intestinal system is your first line of immune defense! Drinking a high quality Aloe Vera Juice will help soothe the intestinal system!
The Liver is the second line of immune defense. The liver detoxes and does 500+ different tasks daily! We do not help it out to much by drinking alcohol, caffeine, processed, enriched, fortified foods and consume water that isn't even healthy! The liver is also the organ to help metabolize. Clean out and support the liver your weight issues may just disappear.
The glands are the third line of defense. Cortisol is produced by the adrenals, this is an inflammatory mediator. Adrenal exhaustion is very common within our country due to always being within the sympathetic mode, or fight or flight. This causes burn out and more inflammation. Excessive amounts of cortisol production increases fat deposition and insulin resistance. We have many diabetics and the numbers are rising. Reduce cortisol production by doing healing, stress relieving exercises and heal your life.
Omega-3's help reduce inflammation. Our diet provides omega-6's so we just need to have a perfect balance between the two to utilize them. Hawthorn, Co-Q10, Mega Chel and Vitamin E are also used for cardiovascular inflammation. Which, our number one killer in America is still heart disease!
To recap being able to feel an ache and pain is your body's way of telling you something is wrong. When you acknowledge this and go to a health care provider who is open minded you may be able to nip inflammation in the bud before it grows into something more severe!
I will be unveiling the true culprit that underlies disease and illness, how to suppress it naturally, and to keep it from ruining the rest of your life.
So, what is the culprit anyway? It is Inflammation!
What is inflammation?
Inflammation is the body's initial response to irritation, tissue damage or infection. Symptoms of inflammation is heat,which is caused by increased cellular activity and oxidation at site of damage, swelling, which is dilation of the capillary pores allowing the fluid and protein to move into tissue space that increases quantities; this also allows white blood cells into the area, redness,which is increased blood flow to the area and pain, this is when the tissue swells and puts pressure on nerves and lack of oxygen to tissues.
Ever go to the doctor and get diagnosed with an "itis"? What is an "itis"? Most common ones are arthritis, bronchitis, appendicitis, laryngitis, sinusitis, tonsilitis...etc. Inflammation is also involved in heart disease, autoimmune disorders, aging, cancer, allergies, and much more!
Now inflammation can be healthy! It shows us that our body is fighting infections, repairing, and processing toxins. We just stop it from letting it cleanse itself!
The initial phase of acute inflammation begins with tissue damage. Normally caused by bacterial or microbial toxins, heat or radiation, trauma, allergens, etc. When the tissue is damaged this causes the release of histamine, which is followed by a release of bradykinin, serotonin and other chemicals. When these specific chemicals are released they dilate capillary pores and initiate inflammation.
Next, Eicosanoids, these increase permeability of blood vessels to create more swelling, are released to open the blood vessels so white blood cells can get to the damaged area. Histamine and leukotrienes cause bronchial constriction and increased mucus production this helps to flush the irritants out of the mucus membranes!
The third phase of inflammation is that more eicosonoids signal blood cells. White blood cells use free radicals to destroy microbes. Unfortunately, through this process it can damage healthy cells. This is why Antioxidants are extremely important to use daily. Antioxidants help protect healthy cells from immune damage.
Now the best phase of inflammation is the HEALING PHASE. Yes, if we stop trying to control our body and become obstacles we do not heal. When we let things be and support our body it heals itself. Now, cortisol is secreted to shut down eicosanoid production and mediate the inflammatory response. Macrophages clean up the debris and regeneration begins!
Inflammation is very common these days. Some ways that we provoke it would be where we live, our stress levels, processed foods, and unhealthy water. When we take most of these away (which usually we cannot help the pollution within our environment, can always begin helping) inflammation is less likely to harm us.
Some ways to keep inflammation away is making sure our detoxifying organs are up to par. One being the Lymphatic System.
There are even lymphatic drainage massages. Ways to keep pain down are through bodywork, deep breathing, stretching, yoga, energy healing work, etc.
Dealing with chronic inflammation may be a bit more difficult. Reason why you want to catch inflammation in its beginning stages. There are four stages of disease. Acute(irritation), Subacute inflammation(congestion and stagnation), Chronic Inflammation(low grade inflammation) and tissue depression, Degeneration and tissue breakdown!
Some possible symptoms of chronic inflammation would be: excess weight, brittle fingernails, limp hair, sleepiness, constipation, fatigue, groggy upon waking, constant hunger, carb cravings, lack of mental concentration, dark red tongue, aches and pains, dry skin, and gum disease.
Going back to having "guts" to being healthy, the intestinal system is your first line of immune defense! Drinking a high quality Aloe Vera Juice will help soothe the intestinal system!
The Liver is the second line of immune defense. The liver detoxes and does 500+ different tasks daily! We do not help it out to much by drinking alcohol, caffeine, processed, enriched, fortified foods and consume water that isn't even healthy! The liver is also the organ to help metabolize. Clean out and support the liver your weight issues may just disappear.
The glands are the third line of defense. Cortisol is produced by the adrenals, this is an inflammatory mediator. Adrenal exhaustion is very common within our country due to always being within the sympathetic mode, or fight or flight. This causes burn out and more inflammation. Excessive amounts of cortisol production increases fat deposition and insulin resistance. We have many diabetics and the numbers are rising. Reduce cortisol production by doing healing, stress relieving exercises and heal your life.
Omega-3's help reduce inflammation. Our diet provides omega-6's so we just need to have a perfect balance between the two to utilize them. Hawthorn, Co-Q10, Mega Chel and Vitamin E are also used for cardiovascular inflammation. Which, our number one killer in America is still heart disease!
To recap being able to feel an ache and pain is your body's way of telling you something is wrong. When you acknowledge this and go to a health care provider who is open minded you may be able to nip inflammation in the bud before it grows into something more severe!
Friday, April 2, 2010
The Water Cure: An interview with Dr. Batmanghelidj
Natural News
By Mike Adams
Physicians rarely promote the curative properties of H2O, but Dr. Batmanghelidj, M.D. has studied water's effect on the human body and has found it to be one of the best pain relievers and preventative therapies in existence. I was one of the last people to interview the late Dr. Batmanghelidj, and I listened in awe as he shared his research and stories about "The Healing Power of Water."
In a fascinating one-hour phone conversation, Dr. B. shares:
• Which common ailments and "diseases" are actually caused by dehydration
• Why many doctors use water-regulating antihistamines to alleviate pain
• How Dr. Batmanghelidj unintentionally discovered water's healing properties
• Why most people are chronically dehydrated and suffer from symptoms of dehydration that are labeled "diseases"
• Which ingredients in soft drinks deplete the body's water reserves
• Why thirst is not a reliable indicator of dehydration
• Why the body produces cholesterol and how water keeps it in balance
• Why Dr. Batmanghelidj believes the public is being mislead about AIDS
• How dehydration impairs mental functioning
• Why some organizations want to withhold alternative health information from the public
• How lack of water causes depression
• Why popular beverages are no substitute for water
• How dehydration causes the vascular system to constrict, leading to hypertension
• How to recognize signs that your body is starting to dehydrate
• Why restaurants push you to drink disease-promoting soft drinks
• Why and how water effectively treats pain and inflammation
read more at naturalnews.com
By Mike Adams
Physicians rarely promote the curative properties of H2O, but Dr. Batmanghelidj, M.D. has studied water's effect on the human body and has found it to be one of the best pain relievers and preventative therapies in existence. I was one of the last people to interview the late Dr. Batmanghelidj, and I listened in awe as he shared his research and stories about "The Healing Power of Water."
In a fascinating one-hour phone conversation, Dr. B. shares:
• Which common ailments and "diseases" are actually caused by dehydration
• Why many doctors use water-regulating antihistamines to alleviate pain
• How Dr. Batmanghelidj unintentionally discovered water's healing properties
• Why most people are chronically dehydrated and suffer from symptoms of dehydration that are labeled "diseases"
• Which ingredients in soft drinks deplete the body's water reserves
• Why thirst is not a reliable indicator of dehydration
• Why the body produces cholesterol and how water keeps it in balance
• Why Dr. Batmanghelidj believes the public is being mislead about AIDS
• How dehydration impairs mental functioning
• Why some organizations want to withhold alternative health information from the public
• How lack of water causes depression
• Why popular beverages are no substitute for water
• How dehydration causes the vascular system to constrict, leading to hypertension
• How to recognize signs that your body is starting to dehydrate
• Why restaurants push you to drink disease-promoting soft drinks
• Why and how water effectively treats pain and inflammation
read more at naturalnews.com
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Strengthening Our Skeletons
One of today's epidemic in the United States is Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis was considered rare and was only diagnosed in the elderly after an accident. Osteoporosis is an actual decrease in bone density that causes skeletal weakness.
One in two females and one in four males over 50 years old will have an osteoporosis-related fracture. Some estimations are that ten million people in the U.S. have osteoporosis!
Numbers show that there are no signs of improving despite the millions of dollars spent on pharmaceutical research, as well as increased bone mineral density screening. Christine Northrup, M.D, a specialist in women's health, states that bone density scans do not measure bone strength or quality. In fact, 50% of people with thin osteoporotic bones never fracture.
All this suggests that bones do not fracture due to thinness alone and that bone strength or quality is more important than bone density. Because of this, Dr Northrup suggests that millions of women are getting unnecessary tests and taking medications without evidence that the drugs are safe or effective.
So, why are our bones weakening?
The common idea is that we are not getting enough calcium in our diets. Right? However, if that were actually the case, then all the dairy products, calcium-fortified foods, calcium-based antacids and calcium supplements we consume would be fixing the problem. The fact is, that this increased calcium intake doesn't make the problem better!
Clearly, the pharmaceutical industry and media aren't addressing the real cause of bone weakness.
Like so many health problems we experience in modern day society, bone weakness is a result of our modern lifestyle and is not going to be solved by a magic "pill" or quick fixes.
For starters, bones are neither solid nor static; they are living tissue that is continually being renewed! A normally functioning body builds and maintains lifelong healthy bones that are strong and resistant, yet flexible enough to tolerate twisting and bending without breaking. Again, this is a normal functioning body, which most of us do not have!
Now, how do our bones build themselves anyway? Well this consists of a bundle of complex biochemical reactions that maintain a balance between breaking down old and injured bone and building new stronger bones. Old bone tissue is constantly being broken down and reabsorbed. Which, in return, new bone is constantly being laid down in its place. Because of this all our tissue within the body needs a constant supply of nutrients to stay healthy.
*Bones weaken when the breaking down process occurs more rapidly than the building up process.
The body needs Calcium because calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and the most abundant in bones. But bones are made of much more than calcium. They also contain magnesium, phosphorus, sulfur, sodium, chloride, and potassium. Trace minerals are needed as well as vitamins such as C and D.
This explains why calcium supplements alone will not build strong bones. Most Americans are deficient in the other important trace nutrients that are needed.
A lack of trace minerals and nutritional density is the primary reason our bones are weaker, but there is another contributing factor. Remember the building up bone is balancing a constant break down of bone from wear and tear. An overly acidic diet causes bone to break down more because alkalizing minerals like calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium are taken from bones and other tissues to help counteract the excess acid.
This is caused by a diet high in soda, coffee, alcohol, grains, meat and interestingly enough, dairy.
Alkalizing foods tend to be fresh fruits and vegetables, in which most diets are low in.
High levels of stress, air pollution and shallow breathing also make the pH of the body become more acidic! These are also known as oxidative stress... This will be a whole other blog!
Now, herbal supplements to help keep our bones healthy and strong are easy to find! Calcium, of course, is an essential element for the health of bones. Calcium requires vitamin D for proper absorption and utilization. This helps absorption in the small intestines. Vitamin D3 is the best form.
Phosphorus is the second most abundant mineral in the body.
Magnesium is another that works in concert with calcium and is involved in the structure of bones, cell membranes and chromosomes. More people are deficient in magnesium then in calcium. Good food sources are chlorophyll-rich dark green leafy vegetables, kelp, nettle, horsetail, sage and oat straw.
The third most abundant is potassium. This helps prevent osteoporosis by counteracting increased urinary calcium loss due to high dietary salt intake. I love coconut water and within one container of coconut water it holds more then 600mg of potassium. This is more then a banana and helps lower high blood pressure.
So, instead of listening to media about ways to get strong healthy bones, take a lesson from the cows. Where do they get their calcium? They get it from the grass and green leafy foods they consume! The most assimilated and utilizable form of calcium is that found in dark green leafy vegetables such as collard greens, spinach, turnip greens, cabbage, etc.
Since maximum bone size and density, or peak bone mass, is reached between 25-30 years old, the best prevention begins in youth. Start right away. Yet, if you are a bit older, it is never to late to begin a healthy lifestyle and reversing any health concerns you may be genetically predisposed too. With good nutrition, supplementation, exercise, lifestyle changes, osteoporosis can be eliminated as a major public health concern.
*Information is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose and treat diseases. If you have a health problem, it is recommended you consult an open minded health practitioner.
"Sunshine Sharing" Build Better Bones 2008, Steven Horne, Kimberly Balas, Paula Perretty, Sharon Grimes, Carolyn Hughes
One in two females and one in four males over 50 years old will have an osteoporosis-related fracture. Some estimations are that ten million people in the U.S. have osteoporosis!
Numbers show that there are no signs of improving despite the millions of dollars spent on pharmaceutical research, as well as increased bone mineral density screening. Christine Northrup, M.D, a specialist in women's health, states that bone density scans do not measure bone strength or quality. In fact, 50% of people with thin osteoporotic bones never fracture.
All this suggests that bones do not fracture due to thinness alone and that bone strength or quality is more important than bone density. Because of this, Dr Northrup suggests that millions of women are getting unnecessary tests and taking medications without evidence that the drugs are safe or effective.
So, why are our bones weakening?
The common idea is that we are not getting enough calcium in our diets. Right? However, if that were actually the case, then all the dairy products, calcium-fortified foods, calcium-based antacids and calcium supplements we consume would be fixing the problem. The fact is, that this increased calcium intake doesn't make the problem better!
Clearly, the pharmaceutical industry and media aren't addressing the real cause of bone weakness.
Like so many health problems we experience in modern day society, bone weakness is a result of our modern lifestyle and is not going to be solved by a magic "pill" or quick fixes.
For starters, bones are neither solid nor static; they are living tissue that is continually being renewed! A normally functioning body builds and maintains lifelong healthy bones that are strong and resistant, yet flexible enough to tolerate twisting and bending without breaking. Again, this is a normal functioning body, which most of us do not have!
Now, how do our bones build themselves anyway? Well this consists of a bundle of complex biochemical reactions that maintain a balance between breaking down old and injured bone and building new stronger bones. Old bone tissue is constantly being broken down and reabsorbed. Which, in return, new bone is constantly being laid down in its place. Because of this all our tissue within the body needs a constant supply of nutrients to stay healthy.
*Bones weaken when the breaking down process occurs more rapidly than the building up process.
The body needs Calcium because calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and the most abundant in bones. But bones are made of much more than calcium. They also contain magnesium, phosphorus, sulfur, sodium, chloride, and potassium. Trace minerals are needed as well as vitamins such as C and D.
This explains why calcium supplements alone will not build strong bones. Most Americans are deficient in the other important trace nutrients that are needed.
A lack of trace minerals and nutritional density is the primary reason our bones are weaker, but there is another contributing factor. Remember the building up bone is balancing a constant break down of bone from wear and tear. An overly acidic diet causes bone to break down more because alkalizing minerals like calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium are taken from bones and other tissues to help counteract the excess acid.
This is caused by a diet high in soda, coffee, alcohol, grains, meat and interestingly enough, dairy.
Alkalizing foods tend to be fresh fruits and vegetables, in which most diets are low in.
High levels of stress, air pollution and shallow breathing also make the pH of the body become more acidic! These are also known as oxidative stress... This will be a whole other blog!
Now, herbal supplements to help keep our bones healthy and strong are easy to find! Calcium, of course, is an essential element for the health of bones. Calcium requires vitamin D for proper absorption and utilization. This helps absorption in the small intestines. Vitamin D3 is the best form.
Phosphorus is the second most abundant mineral in the body.
Magnesium is another that works in concert with calcium and is involved in the structure of bones, cell membranes and chromosomes. More people are deficient in magnesium then in calcium. Good food sources are chlorophyll-rich dark green leafy vegetables, kelp, nettle, horsetail, sage and oat straw.
The third most abundant is potassium. This helps prevent osteoporosis by counteracting increased urinary calcium loss due to high dietary salt intake. I love coconut water and within one container of coconut water it holds more then 600mg of potassium. This is more then a banana and helps lower high blood pressure.
So, instead of listening to media about ways to get strong healthy bones, take a lesson from the cows. Where do they get their calcium? They get it from the grass and green leafy foods they consume! The most assimilated and utilizable form of calcium is that found in dark green leafy vegetables such as collard greens, spinach, turnip greens, cabbage, etc.
Since maximum bone size and density, or peak bone mass, is reached between 25-30 years old, the best prevention begins in youth. Start right away. Yet, if you are a bit older, it is never to late to begin a healthy lifestyle and reversing any health concerns you may be genetically predisposed too. With good nutrition, supplementation, exercise, lifestyle changes, osteoporosis can be eliminated as a major public health concern.
*Information is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose and treat diseases. If you have a health problem, it is recommended you consult an open minded health practitioner.
"Sunshine Sharing" Build Better Bones 2008, Steven Horne, Kimberly Balas, Paula Perretty, Sharon Grimes, Carolyn Hughes
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
It takes "guts" to be healthy
Many individuals today have a lot of excess "guts". With all of these new "diet" pills and plans that are introduced to our society I would think that the problem would subside.
But alas our health concerns and weight have gone up dramatically.
Many Americans today have what health care providers call "Leaky Gut Syndrome". Do your intestines leak?
What is this Leaky Gut Syndrome? Well this is the inflammation of the gut lining (intestinal walls), brought on by any combination of the following:
*Antibiotitcs
*Alcohol and caffeine
*Prescription corticosteroids(ex. prednisone)
*NSAIDS (ASA, ibuprofen, indomethacin, etc.) and asprin
*Diet high in refined carbohydrates
*Prescription hormones (birthing contraceptives, etc)
*Mold and fungal mycotoxins
*Free Radacals
*Parasites like giardia lamblia, cryptosporidium, ring worm, tapeworm,etc
*Bacteria like helicobacter pylori, klebsiella, citrobacter, etc
*Chemicals in fermented and processed food (dyes, preservatives, peroxidized fats)
*Enzyme Deficiences
With that being written, how many of these have you encountered? With our ways this day and age, I know myself personally have been caught up with many of these. Some I still have problems weaning away from because of their addictive tendencies.
Let me begin by helping you understand what the Gastrointestinal Tract, GI Tract is a more commonly used name, is and what it does. The GI Tract breaks down and absorbs nutrients and is the first line of immune defense against pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungus, etc) and chemical irritants. We have 60% or more of our immune system lying within our guts. Who would have guessed that? When you become sick with a head cold, flu, virus, etc just look to your gut and begin the cleaning process there.
To start a healthier lifestyle you must first educate yourself on how these health concerns come about and what symptoms are involved. Leaky Gut Syndrome is when the intestines become inflamed due to an irritation of some kind i.e. acidic processed refined foods, pollution, etc. Inflamed tissues swell, increasing the porous nature of the intestines. When having leaky gut syndrome this limits absorption of nutrients which can cause fatigue and bloating after eating. Large food particles are absorbed which creates food allergies and autoimmune situations like arthritis and fibromylagia. Carrier proteins are damaged so nutrient deficiencies occur which can cause numerous symptoms
-Magnesium deficient muscle spasms
-Copper deficient high cholesterol
Immune function is compromised greatly and increases chemical sensitivity, leaking toxins burden the liver, bacteria and candida (yeast) are able to translocate, i.e. pass from the gut into the bloodstream and infect other organs and systems, and much more.
What the heck does all that mean, right? Let me translate exactly what leaky gut syndrome causes and the health problems associated with this issue.
*Abdominal discomfort
*ADHD
*Arthritis
*Asthma
*Autism
*Automimmune diseases
*Bloating
*Candida
*Celiac disease
*Chronic fatigue syndrome
*Depression
*Dermatitis
*Diarrhea
*Eczema
*Environmental illness
*Fatigue
*Fever
*Food allergy
*Inflammatory bowel disease
*Irritable bowel syndrome
*Memory problems
*Multiple chemical sensitivity
*Pancreatic insufficiency
*Psoriasis
*Sinus problems
*Skin rashes
*Toxic feelings
That may help put this issue into a more serious perspective.
I will break down an eight guide process on "cleansing",cleansing is more than just stimulating bowel eliminations.
Step One: Avoid Intestinal Irritants
Avoid processed foods loaded with food additives
Eliminate food allergens (wheat, corn, dairy, etc) Note: everyone has different allergens, elimination diet works wonders
Avoid Refined sugars and simple carbs
Avoid drugs which damage intestinal mucosa (Ibuprofen, birth control, corticosteroids, etc.)
Some ideas that you will help build and support your intestines would be:
Eating fiberous foods (whole grains, leafy green vegetables, etc)
Drink plenty of purified water
Exercise regularly
Eat quality fats and oils
Eat fermented foods
Step Two: Bind toxins and irritants in the gut to prevent inflammation and damage to the intestinal mucosa
As mentioned above fiber is needed daily. The average American only gets roughly 6-11 grams of fiber a day. Our daily intake is set around 30-35 grams. Fiber is our Nutritional Security Guards! It acts as food for and encourages the growth of the friendly flora in the intestinal tract and directly soothes intestinal inflammation. When this item is taken with adequate amounts of water it improves colon transit time! THIS IS HUGE! On average we are to have an elimination 2-3 times a day. This shows a healthy "transit time". Again, an average American's "transit time" is around 70-100 hours, which it is suppose to be close to 8-14 hours. That is an extreme difference. When people say we are full of it they speak the truth!
Step Three: Improve colon transit time so that toxins and irritants are removed from the GI tract in a more timely basis
Alright let's get that junk out of there. No need to be pack rats and keep it with you wherever you go. Another reason why we gain weight. Who wants to decrease their colon transit time? I know I do! Ways of doing this are to get half your body weight in ounces of water. Adding fiber, herbal bitters: yellow dock, burdock, oregon grape, etc, and ENZYMES!
*Enzymes break down undigested foods, improve intestinal absorption of nutrients, reduce build-up of toxins, and have a
very mild laxative action.
Step Four: Reduce existing intestinal inflammation and restore integrity of intestinal membranes to reduce gut permeability
Anti-inflammatories are needed here. Such as, Chamomile, Mangosteen, Yucca, and Licorice, which you can even drink teas with these such herbs which eliminates "pill popping".
Step Five: Remove yeast and other harmful microbes and creating a healthy balance of friendly bacteria in intestines
This is, for me, the most important step of all. There are tons of yeast fighting "diets" you can follow which work so well and you feel horrible at the beginning, but when you finally rid yourself of the yeasty bacteria you feel as if you went back in time!
Some herbal agents to help would be oregano, garlic, Pau D'Arco and colloidal silver. Items to take to keep them from coming back is Black Walnut, Garlic, and wormwood.
Step Six: Support Phase I and II detoxification enzymes with nutritional co-factors and antioxidants
The liver filters toxins out of the blood coming from the digestive tract. It does this via the bile.
Liver Enzyme Systems- Phase I detoxification:
Beta-carotene
Vitamins/Minerals
Choline
Fatty Acids
Lecithin
Methionine
Phase II detoxification are enzymes which add chemical groups to toxins to make them water soluble so they can be excreted by the kidneys
Vitamins: Folic Acid, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, C
Minerals: Germanium, Magnesium, Manganese, Selenium, Sulfur, Zinc
Amino Acids
N-acetyl-cystine
Nutritional supporters would be green foods, milk thistle, sam-e, indole-3 carbionl,etc
Step Seven: Stimulate the flow of bile and urine to remove toxins which have been processed by the liver
Aids to elimination are again Fiber and Water! No one can stress this enough. If we got the proper amounts of water and fiber daily we would have magnificent "transit time" and be eliminating the waste that makes us sick and disease ridden.
Step Eight: Repopulate the intestines with FRIENDLY microbes
Yes there is bacteria that is on our side that lives in our intestines. These are better known as Probiotics! They protect intestines from infection by harmful microbes, help breakdown food and provide nutrient absorption, helps neutralize toxins.
I suggest taking these daily and even sprinkling on children's food and baby's! They need to start as soon as possible so they do not follow in our unhealthy foodsteps.
Some common probiotics are:
Acidophilus
Bifidophilus
L. Reuturi
Flora Force
Fermented foods
In conclusion, it is never to late to start Transforming your lifestyles to ones that will heal you then harm. Stepping away from lies and pressure of those who are focused mainly on gaining financial reigns and searching and finding those who are truly interested in your well being as much as you should be. Yet, that is where it begins. How much you love and want yourself to be happy and healthy is how you will live your life.
I end with live your life as fully as you choose but also live it healthy so you can live longer without illness and die as a whole.
But alas our health concerns and weight have gone up dramatically.
Many Americans today have what health care providers call "Leaky Gut Syndrome". Do your intestines leak?
What is this Leaky Gut Syndrome? Well this is the inflammation of the gut lining (intestinal walls), brought on by any combination of the following:
*Antibiotitcs
*Alcohol and caffeine
*Prescription corticosteroids(ex. prednisone)
*NSAIDS (ASA, ibuprofen, indomethacin, etc.) and asprin
*Diet high in refined carbohydrates
*Prescription hormones (birthing contraceptives, etc)
*Mold and fungal mycotoxins
*Free Radacals
*Parasites like giardia lamblia, cryptosporidium, ring worm, tapeworm,etc
*Bacteria like helicobacter pylori, klebsiella, citrobacter, etc
*Chemicals in fermented and processed food (dyes, preservatives, peroxidized fats)
*Enzyme Deficiences
With that being written, how many of these have you encountered? With our ways this day and age, I know myself personally have been caught up with many of these. Some I still have problems weaning away from because of their addictive tendencies.
Let me begin by helping you understand what the Gastrointestinal Tract, GI Tract is a more commonly used name, is and what it does. The GI Tract breaks down and absorbs nutrients and is the first line of immune defense against pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungus, etc) and chemical irritants. We have 60% or more of our immune system lying within our guts. Who would have guessed that? When you become sick with a head cold, flu, virus, etc just look to your gut and begin the cleaning process there.
To start a healthier lifestyle you must first educate yourself on how these health concerns come about and what symptoms are involved. Leaky Gut Syndrome is when the intestines become inflamed due to an irritation of some kind i.e. acidic processed refined foods, pollution, etc. Inflamed tissues swell, increasing the porous nature of the intestines. When having leaky gut syndrome this limits absorption of nutrients which can cause fatigue and bloating after eating. Large food particles are absorbed which creates food allergies and autoimmune situations like arthritis and fibromylagia. Carrier proteins are damaged so nutrient deficiencies occur which can cause numerous symptoms
-Magnesium deficient muscle spasms
-Copper deficient high cholesterol
Immune function is compromised greatly and increases chemical sensitivity, leaking toxins burden the liver, bacteria and candida (yeast) are able to translocate, i.e. pass from the gut into the bloodstream and infect other organs and systems, and much more.
What the heck does all that mean, right? Let me translate exactly what leaky gut syndrome causes and the health problems associated with this issue.
*Abdominal discomfort
*ADHD
*Arthritis
*Asthma
*Autism
*Automimmune diseases
*Bloating
*Candida
*Celiac disease
*Chronic fatigue syndrome
*Depression
*Dermatitis
*Diarrhea
*Eczema
*Environmental illness
*Fatigue
*Fever
*Food allergy
*Inflammatory bowel disease
*Irritable bowel syndrome
*Memory problems
*Multiple chemical sensitivity
*Pancreatic insufficiency
*Psoriasis
*Sinus problems
*Skin rashes
*Toxic feelings
That may help put this issue into a more serious perspective.
I will break down an eight guide process on "cleansing",cleansing is more than just stimulating bowel eliminations.
Step One: Avoid Intestinal Irritants
Avoid processed foods loaded with food additives
Eliminate food allergens (wheat, corn, dairy, etc) Note: everyone has different allergens, elimination diet works wonders
Avoid Refined sugars and simple carbs
Avoid drugs which damage intestinal mucosa (Ibuprofen, birth control, corticosteroids, etc.)
Some ideas that you will help build and support your intestines would be:
Eating fiberous foods (whole grains, leafy green vegetables, etc)
Drink plenty of purified water
Exercise regularly
Eat quality fats and oils
Eat fermented foods
Step Two: Bind toxins and irritants in the gut to prevent inflammation and damage to the intestinal mucosa
As mentioned above fiber is needed daily. The average American only gets roughly 6-11 grams of fiber a day. Our daily intake is set around 30-35 grams. Fiber is our Nutritional Security Guards! It acts as food for and encourages the growth of the friendly flora in the intestinal tract and directly soothes intestinal inflammation. When this item is taken with adequate amounts of water it improves colon transit time! THIS IS HUGE! On average we are to have an elimination 2-3 times a day. This shows a healthy "transit time". Again, an average American's "transit time" is around 70-100 hours, which it is suppose to be close to 8-14 hours. That is an extreme difference. When people say we are full of it they speak the truth!
Step Three: Improve colon transit time so that toxins and irritants are removed from the GI tract in a more timely basis
Alright let's get that junk out of there. No need to be pack rats and keep it with you wherever you go. Another reason why we gain weight. Who wants to decrease their colon transit time? I know I do! Ways of doing this are to get half your body weight in ounces of water. Adding fiber, herbal bitters: yellow dock, burdock, oregon grape, etc, and ENZYMES!
*Enzymes break down undigested foods, improve intestinal absorption of nutrients, reduce build-up of toxins, and have a
very mild laxative action.
Step Four: Reduce existing intestinal inflammation and restore integrity of intestinal membranes to reduce gut permeability
Anti-inflammatories are needed here. Such as, Chamomile, Mangosteen, Yucca, and Licorice, which you can even drink teas with these such herbs which eliminates "pill popping".
Step Five: Remove yeast and other harmful microbes and creating a healthy balance of friendly bacteria in intestines
This is, for me, the most important step of all. There are tons of yeast fighting "diets" you can follow which work so well and you feel horrible at the beginning, but when you finally rid yourself of the yeasty bacteria you feel as if you went back in time!
Some herbal agents to help would be oregano, garlic, Pau D'Arco and colloidal silver. Items to take to keep them from coming back is Black Walnut, Garlic, and wormwood.
Step Six: Support Phase I and II detoxification enzymes with nutritional co-factors and antioxidants
The liver filters toxins out of the blood coming from the digestive tract. It does this via the bile.
Liver Enzyme Systems- Phase I detoxification:
Beta-carotene
Vitamins/Minerals
Choline
Fatty Acids
Lecithin
Methionine
Phase II detoxification are enzymes which add chemical groups to toxins to make them water soluble so they can be excreted by the kidneys
Vitamins: Folic Acid, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, C
Minerals: Germanium, Magnesium, Manganese, Selenium, Sulfur, Zinc
Amino Acids
N-acetyl-cystine
Nutritional supporters would be green foods, milk thistle, sam-e, indole-3 carbionl,etc
Step Seven: Stimulate the flow of bile and urine to remove toxins which have been processed by the liver
Aids to elimination are again Fiber and Water! No one can stress this enough. If we got the proper amounts of water and fiber daily we would have magnificent "transit time" and be eliminating the waste that makes us sick and disease ridden.
Step Eight: Repopulate the intestines with FRIENDLY microbes
Yes there is bacteria that is on our side that lives in our intestines. These are better known as Probiotics! They protect intestines from infection by harmful microbes, help breakdown food and provide nutrient absorption, helps neutralize toxins.
I suggest taking these daily and even sprinkling on children's food and baby's! They need to start as soon as possible so they do not follow in our unhealthy foodsteps.
Some common probiotics are:
Acidophilus
Bifidophilus
L. Reuturi
Flora Force
Fermented foods
In conclusion, it is never to late to start Transforming your lifestyles to ones that will heal you then harm. Stepping away from lies and pressure of those who are focused mainly on gaining financial reigns and searching and finding those who are truly interested in your well being as much as you should be. Yet, that is where it begins. How much you love and want yourself to be happy and healthy is how you will live your life.
I end with live your life as fully as you choose but also live it healthy so you can live longer without illness and die as a whole.
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