Cherry Juice

I recently hurt my neck and upper back by my scapula exercising. I knew the exact time the injury happened and went right to my chiropractor after it happened. She adjusted my rib and neck but told me that I will continue to have muscle spasms for the next few days. She recommended ice, massage and use of my home tens unit. I have been following instructions but I still was having pain so I did what everyone else does and turned to the internet for an answer. There is was...Tart Cherry Juice.

I have drank tart cherry juice in the past. I knew that it was packed full of antioxidants that improve skin and heart health, lower blood sugar (diabetes) and help with insomnia. I did not realize tart cherry juice that helps decrease muscle inflammation, symptoms of exercise-induced muscle damage, and pain. Studies have shown drinking 1 cup of tart cherry juice a day or eating 1.5 cups of tart cherries can help reduce muscle pain and inflammation. If tart cherry juice is not palatable for you, pill for cherry supplements are also available.

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(Reference: Kate Morin, Greatest.com. Picture: whatscookingamerica.net)

Alternative Non-toxic Household Products

I saw this today and thought that is was too beneficial not to share.
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Limiting the amount of products you bring into your home will not only cut down on costs at the grocery store but will keep you and your family healthier. Below is a list of some common uses for seven household products. Add some drops of essentials oilslike lavender, rose, or sweet orange to any of them for extra pleasure!

Here are a few more tips to help you go green and save money!

• Cut up old bath towels. Reuse these as rags for cleaning your house rather than paper towels, which are expensive and contribute to 3,000 pounds of waste in landfills each day.
• When you grocery shop, leave your list at home. Instead, fill your basket with local, seasonal, and organic items that are on sale that week. Once you have your fruits and veggies, you can start to plan what other items you might need for the week.
• Stock up on staples when they are on sale. Some ideas: look for jars of organic pasta sauce, condiments, and, frozen organic veggies or fruit.
• Purchase things in bulk like quinoa, granola, beans, nuts, seeds, and dried herbs.
• Cook up large pots of grains and beans then divvy them up smaller portions to freeze for later meals.. Staples that work well: quinoa, brown rice, black beans, and kidney beans.  
• Prep veggies on Sundays. You can wash, chop, blanch or steam them.
• Invest in a high quality blender. This will allow you to make your own nut butters, almond milk, oat flour, soups, dips, and smoothies.  Choose one with at least a 5 year warranty.
• Limit the amount of beauty products you use daily. Keep your routine simple! 

FYI: I (Cali) used to use baking soda and water to clean my contacts. Mix 1/4 tsp baking soda with a few drops of water into a paste consistency. Rub on contacts and rinse with saline. 

(Source: www.MindBodyGreen.com)

How safe is your water bottle?

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I attended a detox class recently and learned many things about food and containers that our foods come in. In our modern day world we are very busy and it is sad to say that convenience over health is often the decision we make. For example, water bottles. I have never been one to buy water in bottles. Why would I? I have a water filter on my refrigerator and I want to limit my carbon footprint. I never really gave a thought to my water bottle that I used until I took the detox class.

Plastic bottles contain many harmful chemicals that can impact ones health. One chemical found is bisphenol-A or BPA for short. BPA mimics estrogen and disrupts normal cell production. Studies show that people that have been exposed to increased levels of BPA have an increased risk of developing breast and prostate cancers, and uterine tumors. Children with high level exposure to BPA have been shown to have early onset puberty. BPH also effects brain development. According to a study in 2011, pregnant women who had increased levels of BPA in there urine had daughters that had increases of hyperactivity, depression and anxiety. Another chemical found is Phthalate (di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate) or DEHP for short. Research studies have shown that over exposure to DEHP can lead to hormone disruption, birth defects, breast cancer, asthma, reproductive problems and obesity.

BPA and DEHP leach from the plastic container (whether it be a plastic bottle, can or plastic wrapper) into water (or food). If the container is heated, the leaching process can occur up to 55 times faster than at room temperature.

The FDA has stated that BPA and DEHP are safe at very low levels. However, if you are exposed to these chemicals several times a day, everyday your health could be at risk. Make sure you read the labels and choose non-PBA and non-DEHP containers.

To help decrease your carbon footprint, choose a reusable container as your permanent water bottle. (Mason jars are my daughter's favorite)

(Sources: www.breastcancer.org, www.health.usnews.com, www.mayoclinic.com; Picture: www.wired.com)

Apples

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We have all heard our mothers say, "an apple a day keeps the doctor away".  And guess what? She was right.  Did you know that apples help heal and cure a variety of illness, aliments and diseases.  Researchers have found that apples and apple constitutes (pectin, vinegar, etc.) can lower the risk of many cancers including colorectal, liver, breast, stomach, and esophageal. In addition, apples have been shown to reduce radioisotopes in people exposed to radiation or nuclear weapon fall out.

Apples have been shown to help with shortening the course of diarrhea in children and prevent atherosclerosis in a high cholesterol diet.  Apples help with weight loss and increase brain function.   Bowel inflammation, periodontal disease, hair loss, infections (staphylococcal and influenza) and vaccine-induced toxicity are decreased when one includes apples in his/her diet.

Next time you reach for an organic apple, remember that you are not only having a delicious snack, you are taking your daily dose of nature's medicine.

(to read more go to www.greenmedinfo.com, resource: Dr. Sayer Ji, photo: experiencecrossriver.com)

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The Benefits of Turmeric

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Turmeric is one the most thoroughly researched plants in existence today. Its medicinal properties and components (primarily curcumin) have been the subject of over 5600 peer-reviewed and published biomedical studies. In fact, our five-year long research project on this sacred plant has revealed over 600 potential preventive and therapeutic applications, as well as 175 distinct beneficial physiological effects. Given the sheer density of research performed on this remarkable spice, it is no wonder that a growing number of studies have concluded that it compares favorably to a variety of conventional medications, including:

Lipitor/Atorvastatin(cholesterol medication): A 2008 study published in the journal Drugs in R & D found that a standardized preparation of curcuminoids from Turmeric compared favorably to the drug atorvastatin (trade name Lipitor) on endothelial dysfunction, the underlying pathology of the blood vessels that drives atherosclerosis, in association with reductions in inflammation and oxidative stress in type 2 diabetic patients.

Corticosteroids (steroid medications): A 1999 study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research found that the primary polyphenol in turmeric, the saffron colored pigment known as curcumin, compared favorably to steroids in the management of chronic anterior uveitis, an inflammatory eye disease. A 2008 study published in Critical Care Medicine found that curcumin compared favorably to the corticosteroid drug dexamethasone in the animal model as an alternative therapy for protecting lung transplantation-associated injury by down-regulating inflammatory genes. An earlier 2003 study published in Cancer Letters found the same drug also compared favorably to dexamethasone in a lung ischaemia-repurfusion injury model.

Prozac/Fluoxetine & Imipramine (antidepressants): A 2011 study published in the journal Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica found that curcumin compared favorably to both drugs in reducing depressive behavior in an animal model.

Aspirin (blood thinner): A 1986 in vitro and ex vivo study published in the journal Arzneimittelforschung found that curcumin has anti-platelet and prostacyclin modulating effects compared to aspirin, indicating it may have value in patients prone to vascular thrombosis and requiring anti-arthritis therapy.

Anti-inflammatory Drugs: A 2004 study published in the journal Oncogene found that curcumin (as well as resveratrol) were effective alternatives to the drugs aspirin, ibuprofen, sulindac, phenylbutazone, naproxen, indomethacin, diclofenac, dexamethasone, celecoxib, and tamoxifen in exerting anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative activity against tumor cells.

Oxaliplatin (chemotherapy drug): A 2007 study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that curcumin compares favorably with oxaliplatin as an antiproliferative agenet in colorectal cell lines.

Metformin (diabetes drug): A 2009 study published in the journal Biochemitry and Biophysical Research Community explored how curcumin might be valuable in treating diabetes, finding that it activates AMPK (which increases glucose uptake) and suppresses gluconeogenic gene expression (which suppresses glucose production in the liver) in hepatoma cells. Interestingly, they found curcumin to be 500 times to 100,000 times (in the form known as tetrahydrocurcuminoids(THC)) more potent than metformin in activating AMPK and its downstream target acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC).

Another way in which turmeric and its components reveal their remarkable therapeutic properties is in research on drug resistant- and multi-drug resistant cancers. We have two sections on our site dedicated to researching natural and integrative therapies on these topics, and while there are dozens of substances with demonstrable efficacy against these chemotherapy- and radiation-resistant cancers, curcumin tops both lists: Cancers: Drug Resistant Cancers: Multi-Drug Resistant We have found no less than 54 studies indicating that curcumin can induce cell death or sensitize drug-resistant cancer cell lines to conventional treatment. We have identified 27 studies on curcumin's ability to either induce cell death or sensitize multi-drug resistant cancer cell lines to conventional treatment. Considering how strong a track record turmeric (curcumin) has, having been used as both food and medicine in a wide range of cultures, for thousands of years, a strong argument can be made for using curcumin as a drug alternative or adjuvant in cancer treatment. Or, better yet, use certified organic (non-irradiated) turmeric in lower culinary doses on a daily basis so that heroic doses won't be necessary later in life after a serious disease sets in. Nourishing yourself, rather than self-medicating with 'nutraceuticals,' should be the goal of a healthy diet.
(source exert repost from www.greenmedinfo.com/blog/science-confirms-turmeric-effective-14-drugs, author Sayer Ji, New Collaborative Project EATomology)

Water or Coke? Which will you choice.

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I found this on my friend's facebook page and thought I would blog about it. This is not an issue for our family, water is our drink of choice however I work with many healthcare professionals that reach for a coke without giving it a second thought. Perhaps after reading this article they might think twice.

WATER 

75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated. (This likely applies to half the world population.) 

In 37% of Americans, the thirst mechanism is so weak that it is often mistaken for hunger. 

Even MILD dehydration will slow down one's metabolism as much as 3%. 

One glass of water will shut down midnight hunger pangs for almost 100% of the dieters studied (in a University of Washington study). 

Lack of water is the #1 trigger of daytime fatigue. 

Preliminary research indicates that 8 to 10 glasses of water a day could significantly ease back and joint pain for up to 80% of sufferers. 

A mere 2% drop in body water can trigger fuzzy short-term memory, trouble with basic math, and difficulty focusing on the computer screen or on a printed page. 

Drinking 5 glasses of water daily decreases the risk of colon cancer by 45%, plus it can slash the risk of breast cancer by 79%, and one is 50% less likely to develop bladder cancer. 

COKE 

In many states the highway patrol carries two gallons of Coke in the trunk to remove blood from the highway after a car accident. 

You can put a T-bone steak in a bowl of Coke and it will be gone in two days. 

To clean a toilet: Pour a can of Coca-Cola into the toilet bowl and let the "real thing" sit for one hour, then flush clean. The citric acid in Coke removes stains from vitreous china. 

To remove rust spots from chrome car bumpers: Rub the bumper with a rumpled-up piece of aluminum foil dipped in Coca-Cola. 

To clean corrosion from car battery terminals: Pour a can of Coca-Cola over the terminals to bubble away the corrosion. 

To loosen a rusted bolt: Applying a cloth soaked in Coca-Cola to the rusted bolt for several minutes. 

To bake a moist ham: Empty a can of Coca-Cola into the baking pan, wrap the ham in aluminum foil, and bake. Thirty minutes before the ham is finished, remove the foil, allowing the drippings to mix with the Coke for a sumptuous brown gravy. 

To remove grease from clothes: Empty a can of Coke into a load of greasy clothes, add detergent, and run through a regular cycle. The Coca-Cola will help loosen grease stains. 

Coke will also clean road haze from your windshield. 

FOR YOUR INFORMATION: 

The active ingredient in Coke is phosphoric acid. Its pH is 2.8. It will dissolve a nail in about four days. Phosphoric acid also leaches calcium from bones and is a major contributor to the rising increase in osteoporosis. 

To carry Coca-Cola syrup (the concentrate) the commercial truck must use the "Hazardous Material" place cards reserved for highly corrosive materials. 

The distributors of Coke have been using it to clean the engines of their trucks for about 20 years! 

(report from funny2.com)

Christmas Everyday

"Christmas is forever, not for just one day,
for loving, sharing, giving, are not to put away
like bells and lights and tinsel, in some box upon a shelf.
The good you do for others is good you do yourself."

Norman W. Brooks

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Onions

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A natural treatment for abrasions: Skip the high cost creams and ointments and rub the cut side of half an onion on your abrasions. Not only will this take the sting away, the skin will heal very quickly. In Italy my husband slid down the side of a large rock causing a huge abrasion on his arm. It looked really bad. He went into a little restaurant to wash it off. Instead of being directed to the bathroom, the Italian woman cooking took out a knife sliced a white onion in half and started rubbing it on his arm. We thought she was crazy but to our amazement his abrasion was gone the next day.

Is Your Toothbrush Making You Ill?

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Is your toothbrush making you ill? Do you know that your toothbrush can harbor millions of bacteria, viruses and other germs? Here are helpful healthy toothbrush tips: Never share toothbrushes. Germs live in the bristles and it is possible to become infected with a virus or bacterial infection by using another person’s toothbrush. Throw away your toothbrush if you have been diagnosed with a bacterial infection, especially strep throat. It is possible to re-infect yourself with strep after you have finished your course of antibiotics. Never store your toothbrush with someone else’s. Germs can be transferred between the wet bristles. Finally, replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or sooner if the bristles are frayed, worn or broken. Damaged bristles do not allow for proper cleansing of teeth thus leading to poor oral hygiene and predisposing you to illness.

Meditation

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Meditation...as little as 15-20 minutes a day can make a great impact on your physiological, psychological and spiritual well being. Meditation helps one detach and clears the mind thus decreasing stress and anxiety and improving brain concentration and focus. Meditation reduces muscle tension and helps decrease blood pressure and effects of chronic illnesses by increasing the immune system and reducing free radicals in the body. Meditation increases self confidence and helps stabilize mood and behaviors. Things are put into perspective and one will find that little things are less bothersome. Meditation allows us to better understand one's self and others and learn to forgive. Through meditation, we discover our purpose. The best reason to incorporate meditation into your daily life is the deeper connection you will have with God that will enable harmony between your mind, body and soul.

Flossing

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I had my six month dental check up and cleaning today and like every time before my hygienist, Kim, reminds me that I need to floss everyday. I admit it, I am not a regular flosser; in fact I maybe floss once a week at best. This is very disturbing to me because I (and my friends and family) consider myself one of the healthiest people I know yet I am not practicing regular flossing. I told Kim that in her honor I would dedicate this entry to her.

 There are many health benefits to flossing. Combining brushing and flossing improves oral hygiene. Floss removes plaque from the tight spaces between teeth and under the gums (plaque under the gums leads to gingivitis and gum disease). Less plaque means less time in the dental chair for cleanings and treatments. I think this is bitter sweet because if you like your hygienist (like me), you will not spend as much time in her/his chair. An unhealthy mouth is much more than bad breath and yellow teeth it can lead to heart disease, lung problems, diabetes and life threatening systemic diseases. Health problems cost money. If the above reasons have not convinced you to start flossing consider this. Flossing can decrease the costs of dental and medical bills that are directly related to poor oral health. (Resource: 5 Reasons Why Flossing is Extremely Important by Matt Cunningham)

How to boost your memory

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I was talking with a friend today and she commented on how she cannot seem to remember things lately. As I thought about her comment, I realized that my husband has had problems with my short-term memory as well. In order to have a healthy brain, one must first have a healthy body. Healthy heart=healthy brain. Eating foods rich in flavonoids, folate and omega 3 fatty acids can help boost memory.

Studies have shown that flavonoids help protect against the loss of brain cells and may help reverse memory loss. Berries, especially blueberries, are the best sources of flavonoids. One study from Britain showed that people that ate blueberries enhances spatial memory and learning.

Leafy green vegetables such as kale, spinach, and greens are chocked full of folate. Foods high in folate help reduce homocysteine levels in the blood. People with high homocysteine levels have shown to have higher risks of heart disease and memory decline. An Australian study showed that a diet rich in folic acid helps increase information processing and recall in the brain. Bonus: add lemons to leafy greens to help the body absorb iron more effectively.

Salmon, sardines, herring and mackerel are excellent sources of omega 3 fatty acids. Rush University Medical Center in Chicago conducted a 6 years study regarding memory decline amongst 3000 people. The study showed that those that ate fish one day a week had a 10% slower decline in memory than those that did not have fish in their diet. (resources: Joy Bauer and Livestrong)

March is National Nutrition Month

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What you put in your body affects your skin as much (if not more) as what you put on the outside of your body. March is National Nutrition Month. There is not a better time to start eating healthier for your skin. By adding the following three foods to your diet, you can transform your skin.

Mangos- If your skin is dry and dehydrated, eat mangos. Mangos are a great source of Vitamin A. Vitamin A helps reduce wrinkles by increasing retention of water, collagen production and skins ability to withstand injury.

Cottage Cheese- Cottage cheese is a great source of Vitamin E and calcium. Vitamin E is a powerful anti-oxidant that boosts immunity and heals the skin. Studies also show that Vitamin E helps improve acne challenges and decrease the affects of photo aging. Calcium is important for cell renewal and improved lipid barrier function (keeps skin young and hydrated).

Mushrooms- Mushrooms have B Vitamins and selenium which help decrease the skins anti-inflammatory response and calm and decrease redness. Selenium (obtained from food sources) may help decrease sun damage and skin cancer. In addition, selenium is needed to maintain skins elasticity. (Note selenium obtained from supplements has been shown to increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and other cancers). As a bonus, according to Self.com, mushrooms that have been exposed to UV light have large quantities of Vitamin D. Great news if you are a vegan being this is the only natural non-animal Vitamin D source.

Ingredients to Avoid

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This chart pretty much sums it up. (source rawforbeauty.com)

Magnesium

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Do you consider magnesium as an essential mineral when it comes to health benefits?  Many of us know the benefits of calcium and zinc however health experts stress the importance of magnesium for staying healthy.  Magnesium is responsible for the transmission of nerve impulses, body temperature regulation, detoxification, energy production, and the formation of healthy bones and teeth.  Studies show that magnesium helps aid in the symptoms of PMS and menopause.  In addition, there is overwhelming data that suggests magnesium may reverse osteoporosis, prevent cardiovascular disease, decrease blood pressure and the risk of developing diabetes, and treat headaches, insomnia and depression.

Foods rich in magnesium include nuts (not roasted) especially almonds, fish, wheat germ, green leafy vegetables, cocoa (dark unsweetened chocolate), squash, pumpkin, edamame, Tahini, and bran.

(source: www.newsmax.com January 20, 2011)

Chiropractic Care

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Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic is pretty widely accepted in the medical community, and thus qualifies more as a “complementary” medicine than an alternative one. The practice focuses on disorders of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, including pain in the back, neck, joints, arms, legs, and head. The most common procedure performed by chiropractors is “spinal manipulation” (aka an “adjustment”), which involves applying controlled force (typically the chiropractor’s hands) to joints that have become “hypomobile.” The idea is that joints’ movements become restricted when surrounding tissues are injured either during a single event (tweaking a muscle during a weight-lifting session) or through repetitive stress (sitting with poor posture for extended periods). Chiropractic adjustments of the affected area are intended to restore mobility and loosen the muscles, allowing the tissues to heal and the pain to resolve. Studies of chiropractic generally affirm its efficacy, with research suggesting the practice can decrease pain and improve physical functioning.

Source: Greatist.com