IC Friends Community Articles

The Health Benefits of Raw Honey

2012-02-18T17:14:00.000-08:00

The honey bee has been around for millions of years. Honey is the only food that includes all the substances necessary to sustain life, including enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and water; and it's the only food that contains "pinocembrin", an antioxidant associated with improved brain functioning.

"My son, eat honey, for it is good; and let sweet comb honey be upon your palate."

Proverbs 24:13

EACH ONE OF US IS A UNIQUE INDIVIDUAL possessing his or her own distinct biochemical variations and functional capacities in the world, there is no set, rigid diet that applies to everyone. In order to develop an appropriate diet that gives maximum support to every aspect of our lives, we need to individualize it with nutrient dense whole foods, so that it is totally functionally on all levels.

No, one should rule out eating raw honey however, no one, not just IC patients should eat processed honey which has no nutritional value.

Honey is made when bees visit flowers to drink nectar. This nectar mixes with the enzymes in the silva of bees and results in honey. When bees store honey, their beating wings reduce the moisture content in honey making it fit for consumption.

A tablespoon of nutrients and good health!

Raw Honey has been referred to many times as "Liquid Gold"! Raw honey is better for your health than pasteurized honey. Pasteurized honey is honey that has been heated in a pasteurization process (161 F or higher). Pasteurization destroys yeast cells and excessive heat exposure also results in products deterioration, as it increases the level of hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), diminishes vitamin content and reduces enzymes that are need for digestion.

Honey that has not been heated over 117 degrees is loaded with amylases, enzymes that digest carbohydrates, as well as all the nutrients found in plant pollens. This makes it an ideal sweetener for oatmeal, porridge and toast, as the amylases in raw honey help digest grains. Glucose tolerance test indicate that, for most people, honey does not upset blood sugar levels as severely as does refined sugar. Buy honey labeled "raw" if only has the word "pure" it is not 100% raw.

I have raw honey everyday. I use it as a sweetener in herbal tea, oatmeal and baked goods. I also use it as a facial mask, to treat occasional acne, smalls wounds, and when I have a cough/sore throat and the truth is I can't remember the last time I had a sore throat.

Benefits of Raw Honey

Research has shown that raw honey contains phytonutrients that can eliminate cancers and tumors. It has been seen that some of the natural substances in honey prevent colon cancer in animals.
Raw honey often contains propolis, a mixture of resins used by the honeybees to seal their hive against viruses and bacteria. Propolis has a large number of nutrients that have significant antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal properties.
Processed honey also contains antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal properties although it is not as effective as raw honey.Honey contains friendly bacteria that are effective in the treatment of burns and wounds.
In many cultures, raw honey is used as a natural remedy for indigestion, bronchitis and ulcers.
High sugar content in honey dries up wounds faster. Also, certain varieties of honey contain hydrogen peroxide, which is used to treat scrapes and wounds. It has been found that treating wounds and burns with honey leads to less pain and scarring.
The antibacterial properties of honey may be useful in fighting ulcers.
Honey helps alleviate stomach problems such as diarrhea, indigestion and symptoms of gastroenteritis.
Honey helps regulate blood sugar levels. This is because honey helps the liver convert glucose into glycogen. So, even when a person is sleeping or exercising, the brain receives sufficient levels of sugar. When sufficient amount of sugar is not available to the body, it leads to impaired glucose metabolism.
Honey is a treasure trove of vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6 and a high amount of vitamin C. It also provides calcium, magnesium, phosphate, and other minerals.
Studies have shown that raw honey may be effective in weight loss and reducing levels of body fat.
Honey also improves HDL cholesterol levels. In short, honey is good for people suffering from high cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
Honey is an effective cough suppressant. The natural antioxidants present in honey also make it a great substance for strengthening immunity.
Since ancient times, honey has been used as an effective source of energy. In athletes, honey helps maintain blood sugar levels and speeds up muscle recuperation.

Again, we are all biochemically different and you should not rule out eating a nutrient dense food such as "raw honey" until you have tried it a few times and determine whether or you have a true food intolerance.

Unfortunately, most patients do not realize that the "do and do not eat" list of foods given to IC patients is based on assumption not true evidence. Most people are in chronic pain and sensitive to most foods due to poor gut flora. Many of them find that eliminating particular foods seldom improves symptoms and if it does it's temporary. Why? Because the body just develops sensitives to other foods due to the imbalance of gut flora. The official figures for a "true allergy to food" are around 1 percent of the population in most developed countries. -Ref. Us Census Bureau, International Data Base available at: http:www.wrongdiagnosis. com/f/food_allergies/stats.htm

I talk with IC patients daily and I find that many people make assumptions and determinations over something they read on the internet without doing "real" research.

Research involves gathering quanative and qualitative subject(s) that you will observe and analyze. This determines the outcome and in most cases the subject remains a hypothesis, a big fat question mark. This is the case with the majority of treatment, drugs and diet regarding IC. We need to do personal observation and analysis before we can rule foods in or out of our diet. And, know that many of the foods that we have a sensitivity to can be added back into our diet once the good bacteria has recolonized and balanced your gut, colon and vaginal flora.

AFTER READING ALL THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF EATING RAW HONEY DO YOU REALLY THINK YOU SHOULD AVOID IT?

Wishing You Health and Happiness
Gloria Prater, Whole Health Educator

NSAID Alert!

2012-02-10T11:05:00.000-08:00

IC patients are often told by their doctors to take NSAIDs when they complain of chronic bladder and or pelvic pain.

Physicians are recommending (OTC) NSAIDs more often for a variety of reasons. 1. Fear of liability and possible legal consequences for prescribing pain medication to a person they suspect is drug seeking, already on too much medication, feel the chronic pain is psychosomatic not physical 2. lack of prescription drugs coverage; or on Medicaid

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) work their magic by interfering with the production of PGE2 from arachidonic acid, a characteristic they share with EPA. One of the most common set of side effects associated with these drugs is gastrointestinal disturbances. Four out of the 7 users of NSAIDs experience symptoms such as heartburn, acid reflux, stomach burning, nausea, painful urination, and or bloating. NSAIDs will and do continue the vicious cycle of IBS and IC (we all know they these two symptoms go hand and hand)and the sometimes debilitating symptoms that accompany painful bladder syndrome. You might want to think twice before taking and NSAIDs.

A patients goal is recovery, not masking symptoms and take NSAIDs that cause uncomfortable side effects; including kidney damage.

Source - Pecquet S, Prioult G, Campbell J, German B, Turini M. Commonly used drugs impair oral tolerance in mice. Ann N Y Acad Sci. Dec 2004;1029:374-378.

Have a wonderful weekend with lost of R&R
Gloria Prater, WHE

LETTER TO FAMILY & FRIENDS

2012-02-09T15:21:00.000-08:00

How do I get my family and friends to understand more about IC (Painful Bladder Syndrome) and how my life has changed living with this diagnosis?

It is important to educate your family and friends about Interstitial cystitis as you are learning more about your personal situation and about the diagnosis.

You will need their support and understanding to help you cope with living with chronic pain, and other changes that you may note are taking place in your body. It is usually difficult to explain everything that you feel to even your closest friends and family. You might wish to refer to the Letter to Family and Friends to help you write your own letter to them, explaining how you feel and to help them understand, or you have permission to use the letter as it is.

Communication is critically important, because this diagnosis is not easily treated or resolved, and it affects all those who are close to you to see the changes caused by living with this diagnosis.

Fondly,
Gloria Prater, WHE

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Dear Family and Friends,

This letter was written in hopes of improved understanding of those who live with symptomatic Interstitial cystitis and the chronic pain, and life altering changes the syndrome causes.

Having IC (chronic bladder pain) means many things in my life and body have changed, and a lot of them are invisible. Most people do not understand about relentless, intractable pain and its effects, and of those that think they know, many are actually misinformed.

In the spirit of informing those who wish to understand, these are the things that I would like you to understand about me and my medical diagnosis, Interstitial Cystitis.

Please understand that living with this medical condition doesn't mean that I am not still trying to live a "normal" life. However, I spend most of my days and nights in considerable pain; sometimes I probably don't seem like much fun to be with, but I'm still me…….. stuck inside this changed body. There are things that I can no longer do, and I have had to accept that. I focus on what I CAN do, not what I can't!I worry about how the changes in me are affecting you. I care very much about my family and my friends, and I'd still like to hear you talk about your life, your family, and your activities. I like to talk about things other than me and my medical condition and pain. I still have the same interests I have always had; there are just some of them I can no longer actively pursue. I am grateful, by the way, for the things I can still do, my faith in God, and the blessing of your support, love and friendship.

Please understand the difference between "happy" and "healthy". When you have the flu, you probably feel miserable with it, but in a week or two you are back to normal. I've been living with this diagnosis and its symptoms for sometime now; I can't be miserable all the time. In fact, I work hard at not being miserable. So, if you're talking to me and I sound happy, it means I'm happy. That's all. It doesn't mean that I'm not in pain, or not extremely fatigued, or that I'm "getting better". Please don't say, "Oh, you're sounding good!" or "But, you look so good", as if nothing could possibly be wrong. When I am around you and others, I try to smile, laugh, and enjoy being with you. I am merely coping. I am happy to be with my friends and family and trying to look normal and act normal; it does not mean that I am not in pain or that I have had a miraculous recovery.

Please understand that being able to sit, stand , walk, or be sociable for 15 minutes doesn't necessarily mean that I can sit, stand , walk, or be sociable for thirty minutes, or an hour. Just because I managed to sit, stand , walk for thirty minutes at a time yesterday doesn't mean that I can do the same today. And, just because I did not excuse myself to the ladies room several times in one hour doesn't mean that I do not have days that I spend 60% of my day in the bathroom. With this medical condition, it gets more confusing everyday. It can be like a yo-yo. I never know from day to day, how I am going to feel when I wake up, and how painful the day will become; in most cases, I never know from hour to hour. That is one of the hardest and most frustrating components of living with chronic bladder and pelvic pain. It sure makes planning ahead difficult, and it means I have had to adapt to an altered life style.Please understand that chronic pain is variable. It's quite possible that one day I am able to take a walk, go out to lunch with you, go shopping , or to church, although when I get home or the next day I'll have bladder/pelvic pain that makes it difficult to walk to the next room. Please don't be confused by saying or thinking, "But, you did it before!" or "Oh, come on, I know you can do this!" If you want me to do something, then ask if I can. I may need to cancel a previous commitment at the last minute. If this happens, please do not take it personally. If you are able, please try to remember how very lucky you are to be physically able to do the things that you can do. I have to re-prioritize my plans and activities constantly, because of the pain and other symptoms that persist. I am still learning each day to cope with what I can no longer do, and to remain very thankful for what I can do.

Please understand that "getting out and doing things" does not always or necessarily make me feel better, and can often make me seriously worse. I really try to be as active and involved in activities as I possibly can, as far as the pain and symptoms allow. If I was capable of doing something that would take it away all of the time, don't you know that I would? You know me and know how my life was before bladder pain/pelvic pain and resulting symptoms began and have continued. Obviously, chronic pain can deal with the whole body, or be localized to specific areas. Sometimes participating in a single activity for a short or a long period of time can cause more symptoms and an increase in physical pain. The recovery time from doing something I should not do, or longer than I should do it, is significant. I call it ODI (overdoing it) and I pay for it dearly .You can't always read the pain on my face or in my body language. The pain is not caused by depression. The sadness and sometimes irritability that you might hear in my voice (even though I try hard to hide it) is from the pain and adjustments I have had to make in my life to go on, and it is due to the changes such as the loss of my job/career/hobbies, my inability to jump in the car whenever I want to run errands, see a movie, go to a restaurant, visit friends, shop, clean my house, work in my garden, etc. as I did previously.

Please understand that if I say I have to sit down or lie down now, that probably means that I have to do it right now; it can't be put off or forgotten just because I'm somewhere else, or am in the middle of doing something. Chronic pain does not forgive, nor does it wait for anyone.You may have wondered why I don't just take something stronger for the pain. I have tried many different medications, as well as surgery which did not result in improvement for me. I have developed more scar tissue/adhesions/nerve damage and symptoms since my surgery. I have been made worse, not better, due to side effects or allergic reactions from the medications and surgeries. Currently, the treatment outcomes are not indicating a high percentage of "complete cures"; and many patients find that treatments give temporary relief or none at all.If I seem touchy, irritable, or distant occasionally, it ¡s probably because I am. It's not how I try to be. As a matter of fact, I try very hard to look and act normal. I hope you will try to understand. I have been, and am still, going through a lot of change. Chronic pain is hard to understand unless you have had it. It wreaks havoc on the body and the mind. It is exhausting and exasperating. Almost all the time, I know that I am doing my best to cope with this, and to live my life to the best of my ability. I ask you to bear with me, and accept me as I am, though changed from the way you knew me before IC.

I know that you cannot literally understand my situation unless you have been in my shoes, but as much as is possible, I am asking you to try to be understanding in general.In many ways I depend on you. I need you to call or visit me when I cannot go out. If you live with me, sometimes I need you to help me with the shopping, cooking, cleaning, gardening. You know me well enough to know it is very difficult for me to ask for help.You are my link to the normalcy of life. You can help me to keep in touch with the parts of life that I miss so much. I know that I have asked for a lot of understanding from you, and I do thank you for listening to my innermost thoughts on paper. It really does mean a lot to me that you care.

My head and heart are still the same; it is my body that has changed, and my life as I knew it before IC has changed it. One of my most heartbreaking moments was when my great nephew put his arms out to me and I was in too much pain to pick him up and on my Anniversary when I was unable to make love to the man I love. These may seem like little things, but it is sometimes those little things that make you aware of the changes IC have caused.

Thank you for trying to understand what I myself do not completely understand. I appreciate your love, concern and prayers. This journey of learning to live with this medical condition has blessed me in many ways. I have met many new friends along the way and find myself surrounded by God's blessings in my life each day.

God bless you for caring,

Jane Doe

Changing Diet is the First Step to resolving Chronic Autoimmune Symptoms

2012-01-30T12:27:00.000-08:00

When it comes to addressing autoimmune symptoms (Interstitial Cystitis, Thyroid, Psoriasis, Diabetes, Fibromyalgia and Digestive diorders, certain nutritional and superfoods are invaluable. All the supplements in the world, however, will fall short if you fail to make the necessary dietary changes to support your condition.

"Americans are infatuated with pills, thanks to decades of conditioning from the pharmaceutical industry. It doesn’t matter whether they come from the pharmacy or the health food store, we have a cultural fixation with finding that magic bullet. It’s no wonder—making genuine, lasting changes to your health takes hard work and discipline, the two last things you’ll see advertised on commercials during your favorite television show."

If you want to continue feeling sick, then continue eating the Standard American Diet (SAD). If you want to feel better and you have chronic bladder pain along with a myriad of other autoimmune symptoms including digestive issues, all patients need to give up grains for an a varied amount of time and reintroduced properly prepared grains. Soaking grains reduces phytic acid and make it possible for many people to digest grains and others might have to say a permanent goodbye to all grains.

People often tell me that they have reduce eating grains and other processed foods and are not feeling better. When you have chronic bladder pain and other autoimmune symptoms you need to commit to a 100 percent process free.

You’ll need to repair a leaky gut by removing the foods all processed foods and even whole foods that your intolerant too. Also, I and many holistic practitioners are increasingly finding many patients require a diet free of grains, starchy vegetables, sweet fruits and sweeteners, and need to follow Specific Carbohydrate Diet. Newer research shows that healing of the small intestine, the seat of digestion and absorption as well as food intolerances, requires a lengthy abstinence from these foods.

I received many emails from people asking what they can do immediately to manage their symptoms. The science can be confusing and complex, especially to the person with chroni pain who also suffers from digestive disorders, brain fog, fatigue, and even some loss of cognitive function.

What people frequently fail to realize is that underlying all of the more complicated scientific approaches is the most important foundation of all— is your diet.

A person suffering from chronic autoimmune disorders invariably have gut issues. The more severe the autoimmune disorder the more severe the gut issues. In a self-perpetuating vicious cycle leaky gut flares up autoimmune conditions, which in turn further damages the gut lining.

Isn’t the elimination diet enough? It became clear, based on the research and the experience of many people, that a more stringent approach is sometimes necessary. The diet must be nutrient dense, whole, clean, basic and simple so as not to trigger inflammation in the intestines and further worsen leaky gut and autoimmune flare-ups, such as bladder pain.

Some people with autoimmune symptoms give up gluten and feel only marginally better. Many practitioners have found in these cases a diet free of grains, starchy vegetables, legumes, and most sweeteners may be necessary. This type of diet, called a monosaccharide (single sugar) diet, is more commonly known today as the Gut and Psychology Syndrome (GAPS) diet, or the Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD). It is based on consuming a diet free of foods that contain disaccharides or polysaccharides, more complex sugars and carbohydrates, such as those in all grains, most beans, and most sweeteners. These complex sugars feed harmful bacteria in the small intestine that prevent its repair or proper function.

I followed GAPS Diet for 30 days then combined the SC Diet for 6 months and in some cases it should be followed even longer. After eating the SCD for 6 months I began to slowly reintroduce raw dairy products, soaked grains and natural sweeteners back into my diet without ill effects.

Eat regularly and do not allow yourself to become overly hungry—stabilizing blood sugar remains a primary aim to avoid the stress of low blood sugar.

Foods to avoid

ALL sugars and sweeteners, even processed honey or agave
High-glycemic fruits: Watermelon, mango, pineapple, raisins, grapes, canned fruits, dried fruits, etc.
Tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, and other nightshades
Mushrooms
Grains: Wheat, oats, rice, barley, buckwheat, corn, quinoa, etc.
Dairy: Milk, cream, cheese, butter, whey. Ghee is OK.
Eggs or foods that contain eggs (such as mayonnaise)
Soy: Soy milk, soy sauce, tofu, tempeh, soy protein, etc.
Alcohol
Lectins: Lectins are a major promoter of leaky gut. Avoid nuts, beans, soy, potatoes, tomato, eggplant, peppers, peanut oil, peanut butter, soy oil, etc.
Coffee: I realize this is difficult but it’s necessary. Many people with a gluten sensitivity react to coffee as if it is gluten. It’s important to eliminate it to be sure it’s not an immune trigger.
Processed foods
Canned foods

Foods to eat

When confronted with this diet the fist thing people ask is what can they eat. In fact you’ll be eating the way people ate for most of human history—there’s plenty of food that doesn’t come from a factory or an industrialized farm.

Bone Broth/Soup
Most vegetables (except nightshades and mushrooms): Asparagus, spinach, lettuce, broccoli, beets, cauliflower, carrots, celery, artichokes, garlic, onions, zucchini, squash, rhubarb, cucumbers, turnips, watercress, etc.
Fermented foods: Sauerkraut, kimchi, pickled ginger, fermented cucumbers, coconut yogurt, kombucha, etc. You must make your own or buy one of the few brands that are genuinely fermented (not made with vinegar) and free of sugars or additives.
Meats: Fish, chicken, beef, lamb, organ meats, etc. Best choice are grass-fed and pastured meats from a local farm. Second best is organic. Avoid factory-farmed meats that contain antibiotics and hormones. For a source of good meat near you, contact your local Weston A. Price chapter leader, or order using the link on the Resources page.
Low glycemic fruits sparingly: Apricots, plums, apple, peach, pear, cherries, berries, etc.
Coconut: Coconut oil, coconut butter, coconut milk, coconut cream.
Herbal teas
Olives and olive oil

Learn how to make bone broth/soup, fermented foods and beverages right away.

Recipes and information for making cultured vegetables, beverages and more.

Seek out raw dairy and slowly reintroduce dairy products back into your diet. I began with raw cow's milk, eggs, real butter and whey after six months with no ill effects.

Learn how to soak and sprout grains and slowly reintroduce properly prepared grains back into your diet, one at a time in small amounts, and keep notes on how you feel.

I also reintroduced 1 cup of organic dark roast coffee back into my diet with no ill effects. I add raw whole cows milk. I do not use sweetener but if you like your cup of joe sweet try stevia.

Grains and legumes present problems for other reasons. Research has shown that many gluten-intolerant people cross-react with other foods. In other words, their body erroneously recognizes other foods as gluten and reacts accordingly. Not surprisingly, most grains fall into the category of top 24 foods most often to cause cross-reactivity, including less common ones as amaranth and quinoa.

Other common cross-reactive foods include dairy, chocolate, sesame, and coffee. Yes, coffee, and after reluctantly going coffee-free many patients have reported coffee was preventing their recovery.

Avoid corn. The gluten protein in corn is similar enough to that in wheat and wheat-like grains that it can provoke an immune response. Also, corn has been bred over the years to resist pests. Unfortunately this bred into corn a compound called fucosamine, which is carcinogenic.

Support

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Piriformis Syndrome

2012-01-15T19:17:00.000-08:00

A fair share of people who suffer with chronic bladder and or pelvic pain don't realize they are suffering with Piriformis syndrome. Piriformis syndrome at one time, was more prevalent in truck drivers, seniors, athletes and injuries. Today we are seeing it in more and more in younger people who are spending hours sitting at a computer and or a sit down job.

Piriformis syndrome is a neuromuscular disorder that occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed or otherwise irritated by the piriformis muscle causing pain, tingling and numbness in the buttocks and along the path of the sciatic nerve descending down the lower thigh and into the leg. Diagnosis is often difficult due to few validated and standardized diagnostic tests, but one of the most important criteria is to exclude sciatica resulting from compression/irriation of spinal nerve roots, as by a herniated disk.1, 2 The syndrome may be due to anatomical variations in the muscle-nerve relationship, or from overuse or strain.

Piriformis Muscle (see fig. below)

The piriformis (from Latin piriformis = "pear shaped") is a muscle in the gluteal region of the lower limb. 3

Pathophysiology

When the piriformis muscle shortens or spasms due to trauma or overuse, it can compress or strangle the sciatic nerve beneath the muscle. Generally, conditions of this type are referred to as nerve entrapment. The result of the piriformis muscle spasm can be impingement of not only the sciatic nerve but also the pudendal nerve. ⁴ The pudendal nerve controls the muscles of the bowels and bladder. When piriformis syndrome is caused by weak abductors combined with tight adductors, a highly effective and easy treatment includes stretching and strengthening these muscle groups. An exercise regimen targeting the gluteus medius and hip abductor muscle groups can alleviate symptoms of piriformis syndrome within days. Piriformis syndrome is also known as "wallet sciatica" or "fat wallet syndrome". 5

A simple physiological principle is that we need to stretch to maintain functional muscle length. Short, tight muscles can cause a number of problems including joint dysfunction,, circulation problems, poor posture, and as in the case of piriformis syndrome, nerve entrapment. 6

Causes

Sitting too much (Inactive use of gluteal muscles) e.g, computer , job.
Overuse injury resulting in piriformis syndrome can result from activities performed in the sitting position that involves strenuous use of the legs as in rowing/sculling and bicycling.
Another purported cause for piriformis syndrome is stiffness, or hypomobility, of the sacroiliac joints. The resulting compensatory changes in gait would then result in shearing of one of the origins of the piriformis, and possibly some of the gluteal muscles as well, resulting not only in piriformis malfunction but in other low back pain syndromes as well.
Piriformis syndrome can also be caused by overpronation of the foot. When a foot overpronates it causes the knee to turn medially, causing the piriformis to activate to prevent over-rotating the knee. This causes the piriformis to become overused and therefore tight, eventually leading to piriformis syndrome.
Piriformis syndrome may also be associated with falling injury and or child birth injury. [7, 8, 9, 10]

Symptoms

Nerve pain can be intense, but what you get with sciatic is a burning, in your hip and or down your leg. I have sciatica caused by piriformis syndrome, and just about everything irritates it - walking, sitting, lying down, and having a bowel movement. Forget pain killers or anti-inflammatories because like chronic bladder pain, they do not touch this type of pain. Only a set of particular exercise help piriformis syndrome. According to Dr. Nicolas Campos, Chiropractor, not all cases of piriformis syndrome cause sciatica. Some cause buttock/rectum and or hip pain only, while others include low back pain. 6

A distinguishing characteristic of this syndrome is that it is almost always worse with sitting. This is because when we sit right on top of the piriformis muscles. 6

Treatment

So, one solution to piriformis syndrome is to stretch regularly. And a second solution is to find a sports chiropractor and or a physical therapist who is familiar with Piriformis.

I recently began treating my piriformis syndrome with 5 different methods.

1. Physical Therapy - Sullivan Physical Therapy, Austin, Tx
2. Chiropractor - VanDeWalle Chiropractic performance and Wellness Center, Austin, Tx
3. Deep Tissue Massage which includes trigger point therapy
4. Home exercise program
5. Rest and Ice
6. Nutrient Dense Diet

See Piriformis Test, Exercise and Massage under the video tab HERE.

If you suspect your suffering from Piriformis syndrome, it is wise to seek a diagnoses from a trained professional. If your health insurance does not cover physical therapy and or chiropractic care you can always build a home care program after initial diagnoses. See exercises at our video tab above and a small investment in an inversion board in place of seeing a chiropractor.

I will keep you posted on my progress and I would love to hear about yours.

In Health and Happiness
Gloria Prater, Whole Health Edu.
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See below for more information and figs on the Piriformis muscle and the muscles and facia of the pelvis.

The Piriformis is a flat muscle, pyramidal in shape, lying almost parallel with the posterior margin of the Gluteus medius. It is situated partly within the pelvis against its posterior wall, and partly at the back of the hip-joint. It arises from the front of the sacrum by three fleshy digitations, attached to the portions of bone between the first, second, third, and fourth anterior sacral foramina, and to the grooves leading from the foramina: a few fibers also arise from the margin of the greater sciatic foramen, and from the anterior surface of the sacrotuberous ligament. The muscle passes out of the pelvis through the greater sciatic foramen, the upper part of which it fills, and is inserted by a rounded tendon into the upper border of the greater trochanter behind, but often partly blended with, the common tendon of the Obturator internus and Gemelli.

The muscles and Facia of the Pelvis
Obturator Internus
Piriformis Levator Ani
Coccygeus

Pelvic Fascia.—The fascia of the pelvis may be resolved into: (a) the fascial sheaths of the Obturator internus, Piriformis, and pelvic diaphragm; (b) the fascia associated with the pelvic viscera.
The fascia of the Obturator internus covers the pelvic surface of, and is attached around the margin of the origin of, the muscle. Above, it is loosely connected to the back part of the arcuate line, and here it is continuous with the iliac fascia. In front of this, as it follows the line of origin of the Obturator internus, it gradually separates from the iliac fascia and the continuity between the two is retained only through the periosteum. It arches beneath the obturator vessels and nerve, completing the obturator canal, and at the front of the pelvis is attached to the back of the superior ramus of the pubis. Below, the obturator fascia is attached to the falciform process of the sacrotuberous ligament and to the pubic arch, where it becomes continuous with the superior fascia of the urogenital diaphragm. Behind, it is prolonged into the gluteal region.
The internal pudendal vessels and pudendal nerve cross the pelvic surface of the Obturator internus and are enclosed in a special canal—Alcock’s canal—formed by the obturator fascia.
The fascia of the Piriformis is very thin and is attached to the front of the sacrum and the sides of the greater sciatic foramen; it is prolonged on the muscle into the gluteal region. At its sacral attachment around the margins of the anterior sacral foramina it comes into intimate association with and ensheathes the nerves emerging from these foramina. Hence the sacral nerves are frequently described as lying behind the fascia. The internal iliac vessels and their branches, on the other hand, lie in the subperitoneal tissue in front of the fascia, and the branches to the gluteal region emerge in special sheaths of this tissue, above and below the Piriformis muscle.

FIG. 402– Coronal section of pelvis, showing arrangement of fasciae. Viewed from behind. (Diagrammatic.) (See enlarged image) Sources: 1. Kirschner JS, Foye PM, Cole JL (2009). "Piriformis syndrome, diagnosis and treatment". Muscle Nerve 40(1): 10–8. doi:10.1002/mus.21318. PMID 19466717. 2. Piriformis Syndrome: Treatment & Medication http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19466717 3. http://encyclopedia.thefreedictionary.com/Piriformis+muscle 4. http://www.chiroweb.com/mpacms/dc/article.php?id=4440 5. Piriformis Syndrome (Hip/Buttocks Pain) 6. http://www.drnickcampos.com/health-newsletter/PiriformisSyndrome.html 7. http://www.drpribut.com/sports/piriformis.html 8.. http://www.chiroweb.com/mpacms/dc/article.php?id=44401 9. "Colorado Runner -- Feature Article". Retrieved 2007-11-16 10. Kuncewicz E, Gajewska E, Sobieska M, Samborski W (2006). "Piriformis muscle syndrome". Annales Academiae Medicae Stetinensis 52 (3): 99–101; discussion 101.

Gloria Prater, Whole Health Educator is a member of The Weston A. Price Foundation for Wise Traditions in Food, Farming, and the Healing Arts.

Disclaimer: This website is for informational purposes only.

White Flour = Sugar

2012-01-10T14:15:00.000-08:00

The focus of the Western diet on grain-based foods has contributed greatly to an explosion of chronic disease in the past few decades - especially in the very young in the form of eczema, allergies, diabetes and other auto-immune ailments.

White flour breads down into sugar (glucose) and canlead to the very same problems caused by eating too much refined sugar.

What is white flour besides a depressant that makeyour tired and overweight?

White flour is what’s left after striping virtuallyall the nutrients and fiber out of a whole grains wheat. The flour that you are left with is lifeless,that won’t go rancid and works perfectly as a binding agent to old together sugar,sodium artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, additives and many otherchemicals. This white flour became “WhiteGold” for food manufacturers. Whiteflour is nutritionally useless, yet the American Dietetic Associate recommendsthat we eat 8-11 serving of them every day. The American people have been lead to believethat white flour products are “healthy” because they are low in fat,cholesterol and calories. But what food manufacturers fail to mention in theirclever advertising is that white flour products have zero nutritional value andcan lead to poor health. Americans eat a lot of pasta, bagels and pretzelsand wonder “why” more than 70 percent of Americans are experiencing chronichealth issues including depression and obesity.

Four Steps to Replace White Flour with Whole Grains

STEP 1: Limit white flour products to 3 times perweek

Use this step to help you pay attention to theamount of processed starches that you do eat and how they make you feel. Get inthe habit of reading labels, be aware of products made with"enriched" flour. You'll soon discover that white flour is inpractically all commercial foods. When you do eat white flour products,remember to eat them as part of a balanced meal. Don't eat starches bythemselves, but eat them with protein and good fats.

STEP 2: Replace white bread/pasta with whole grainbread and whole grain pasta

This step will help you become a serious labelreader. Do your best to avoid breads and pasta made with "enriched"flour. You'll notice that it is difficult to find true whole grain bread at thegrocery store. The few brands that are available unfortunately add undesirableingredients like hydrogenated vegetable oils and high fructose corn syrup. Itis best to purchase quality whole grain bread from a health food store. Use thechart below to help you with this step.

STEP 3: Replace all other flour products with wholegrains

This step will help you to clean all the white flourout of your cupboards and stock them with whole grain alternatives. Choose productsmade with organic whole grains when possible--sprouted grains are best. Alsoremember to balance and limit the grains in your diet. Although products madewith whole grain flour are a good source of fiber, unfortunately they begin tolose their nutritional value within days after they have been ground. If youare baking with whole grains, it is best to grind your own whole grain flourand consume it within 3-6 days.

STEP 4:(Advanced) Properly prepare your grains

All grains, nuts, and seeds contain phytic acid, an organic acid that blocksthe absorption of minerals. Grains also contain enzyme inhibitors andirritating compounds that can inhibit digestion. Traditionally, grains wereproperly prepared by soaking and sprouting. Not only does this practice neutralizethe negative effects of phytic acid, but it also increases the nutritionalvalue of the grain. Proper preparation is especially important for breakfastcereals.

Whole Grain Substitutes for Refined Grain Products

Avoid	Use
BREAD made with white flour (Any brand sold at regular grocery stores)	Alvarado Street Bakery Cybro's Shiloh Farms Bakery Nature's Path Ezekial Bread Jerusalem Pita Bread
Avoid - CRACKERS made with white flour	Wasa Sourdough Rye Ak Mak Hol-Grain
Avoid - PASTA made with white flour	Eden Pasta BAGELS made with white flour Alvarado Street Bakery bagels TORTILLAS made with white flour Alvarado Street Bakery sprouted wheat tortillas
Avoid - WHITE RICE	Lundberg Organic Brown Rice Bob's Red Mill Grains Arrowhead Mills Grains
Avoid - BREAKFAST CEREALS (All extruded breakfast cereals, whether sold in supermarkets or health food stores)	Rolled or steel-cut oats, preferably organic Wheatena

http://www.nahrprogram.com/p/soaking-grains.html

Benefits of Bovine Colostrum

2012-01-07T12:48:00.000-08:00

Although colostrum has been available since the firstmammals walked the earth, it is relatively new as a nutritional superfood.

Medical and clinical studies show immune factors inColostrum fight Viruses, Bacteria, Yeast, Fungus, Allergens and Toxins.

Colostrum is "Nature's Healing Miracle",according to prominent medical doctor Donald Henderson. Medical Research showsthat Colostrum is possibly the one superfoods that can help everyone that’sill. And, it's the most important preventative supplement you’ll ever find.

According to the Centre for Nutritional Research,hundreds of people have reported significant life changes with the use ofbovine Colostrum. The reports range from weight loss, feelings of wonderfulwell-being, dramatic reduction and elimination of pain and suffering to nearmiraculous cures.”

What is Bovine Colostrum?

It has been called life's first food, a thick, yellowsubstance that is produced toward the end of a female's pregnancy and isemitted by her mammary glands during the first 72 hours after giving birth.While humans produce small amounts of Colostrum, a cow produces approximatelynine gallons during the first thirty-six hours after giving birth. Each dropcontains the promise of life: immunoglobulins, growth factors, antibodies,vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids, and other special substances designedto "prime" the body to face a lifetime of invasion by variousmicroorganisms and environmental toxins bent on destruction.

Why is Colostrum Exceptional?

More than 60% of Americans are taking medication andtaking medication on a daily bases. Many people try to balance their health ontheir own by taking synthetic vitamins, minerals and herbs....many timesunaware of the fact that they are causing and even greater imbalance. Illness and death occur with the loss ofimmune and growth factors in our bodies. Medical science has shown in hundredsof published reports worldwide that these can possibly be replaced in the humanbody ....with bovine Colostrum.

Colostrum contains substances that offer benefits, suchas growth factors, which stimulate the growth and development of cells in thedigestive tract and transfer factor which have immune-activating properties. Acow makes antibodies and secretes those antibodies into its Colostrum.Colostrum enriched in this way is called “hyperimmune colostrum,” and it hasshown considerable promise as an infection-fighting agent.

Hyperimmune colostrum, however, is not available over thecounter as a supplement. Hyperimmunecolostrum comes directly from a cow and the cow should be pasture raised. I buy colostrum from a local organic farm. Ifyou’re interested in purchasing Colostrum go to www.realmilk.com and search bystate. Colostrum must be sourced from a farm that is certified organic and froma healthy, BST, BSE and antibiotic free Grade A, pasture fed, pesticide freedairy cows, preferably from the sunny South Western US where cows give birthyear round so that your colostrum is as fresh as possible.

What Colostrum can do for me? What Is Colostrum Good For?Why Is It the Most Important Nutrient for the Prevention of Chronic Disease?

Excerpts from the book: ‘Peptide Immunotherap;,COLOSTRUM, A physicians Reference Guide’ By Andrew M. Keech, PhD withcontributions from Michail V. Borissenko BS, MS, Steven Bock, MD, Kenneth J.Frank, MD

The first and foremost thing that must be understoodabout colostrum is what it isn’t, namely that colostrum is not a medication.

Gut Health: The Key to Health

Colostrum is an amazing cornucopia of everything we needto maintain a healthy, functional gastrointestinal tract, which is the key togood health in general. Many diseases have their origins in the gut, and theproper absorption of nutrients is key to maintaining the body in top runningcondition.

When the proportion of beneficial bacteria in ourintestines outnumbers the harmful bacteria, our intestines are said to be in astate of orthobiosis, a term meaning “in balance” coined by Elie Metchnikoff.When that proportion is out of balance for some reason and the harmful bacteriapredominate, we are in a state of dysbiosis, or imbalance.

Dysbiosis has a number of harmful consequences, includingleaky gut syndrome where the permeability of the gut lining is increased sothat toxins and pathogens normally excluded from passing through the gut liningnow move freely into the body, which can cause or contribute to a multitude ofdiseases. Many autoimmune conditions, such as Crohn’s disease and rheumatoidarthritis, and most food allergies can be traced to leaky gut syndrome. Thereare many other causes of leaky gut in addition to dysbiosis, includingalcoholism, taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aging, andexcessive amounts of toxins in the gut. Whatever the cause, leaky gut can haveserious, even life-threatening, consequences.

Leaky gut syndrome is the name given to a very commonhealth disorder in which the intestinal lining is more permeable than normal.The abnormally large spaces present between the cells of the gut wall allow theentry of viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other toxic material into thebloodstream. Leaky gut syndrome is at least as common as all the immune systemdiseases combined. Basically, it is caused by infection and the attendantinflammation of the gut lining.

The infection and inflammation can be broughtabout by any of the following:

· Antibiotic use—leads to the overgrowth of abnormal bacteria in thegastrointestinal tract:

· NSAIDs(pain medications)

· Gastrointestinal infections

· Alcohol

· Foodscontaminated by parasites

· Foodscontaminated by bacteria, such as E. coli and salmonella

· Chemicals(including dyes and preservatives) in store bought fermented and processedfoods (traditional homemade fermented foods are beneficial in restoring andbalancing good gut bacteria.

· Prescription corticosteroids

· Processedgrains that contain phytic acids, acidic beverages such as wine

· Pesticides, food preservatives, environmental toxins, etc.

· Anabundance of highly refined sugars and other carbohydrates in your diet (e.g.,candy, cookies, soft drinks, white bread, pasta)

Here is a partial list of some of the benefits ofcolostrum:

· Anabolicactivity

· Antiaging

· Antifungal

· Anti-inflammatory

· Antimicrobial

· Antiviral

· Autoimmune disease (eliminating cause)

· Assimilation

· Autism

· Bloodpressure

· Bloodsugar (glucose regulator)

· Bone density

· Cancer

· Cholesterol

· Cytokines

· Colds

· Diet

· Diabetes

· Digestion

· Elimination

· Epithelial growth factor (EGF)

· Fatreduction and utilization

· Flu prevention and reduction of infections

· Friendlyflora growth

· Guthealth

· Heart

· Infections (prevention and elimination)

· Insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1)

· Immunity

· Immunologist

· Interferons

· Interleukins-1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 16, 18

· Intestinal permeability or leaky gut syndrome

· Jointrepair

· Lactoferrin

· Musclerepair

· Muscletone

· Mobility

· Nutrient absorption

· Pain

· Prevention

· Proline-rich Polypeptide (PRP) immune modulation and antiviral activity

· Recoverytime

· Retinoicacids

· Skinelasticity

· Strength

· Tissuerepair and growth

· Transforming growth factors alpha and beta (TgF-a and TgF-b)

· Weightloss

· Woundhealing

Following is a list of some of the major conditions thatyour body may be able to better heal or prevent with colostrum:

· Alcoholism

· Allergies

· ALS,

· ALS (LouGehrig’s disease)

· Anemia

· Arthritis

· Atherosclerosis

· Autoimmune conditions

· Asthma

· Bacterialinfection

· Bonemarrow transplant

· Bonedensity

· Campylobacter

· Cancer

· Candidaalbicans

· Chlamydia

· Cholera

· ChronicFatigue Syndrome (CFIDS)

· Crohn’sdisease

· Diarrhea(from all known pathogenic sources)

· Dysbiosis

· EpsteinBarr virus (EBV)

· E. coli

· Fibromyalgia

· Foodpoisoning

· Fungalinfection

· Gut andstomach infections

· Guillain-Barré Syndrome

· Heart disease

· Hepatitis

· Herpesvirus

· HIV

· Hormonalbalance

· Influenza

· Intestinal parasites

· IrritableBowel Syndrome (IBS)

· Jointrepair

· Leaky GutSyndrome

· Lupus

· MultipleSclerosis

· MuscularDystrophy

· Myasthenia gravis

· Neutropenia

· Osteoporosis

· Overweight

· Respiratory Virus (RSV)

· Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

· Osteo Arthritis

· Osteoporosis

· Salmonella

· Scleroderma

· Staphylococcus aureus

· SystemicLupus Erythematosus (SLE)

· Thrombocytopenia

· Ulcers

· Viralinfection

· Yeastinfection

Colostrum also contains PRP (Polyproline-Rich-Peptides),shown in medical studies to help boost an underactive immune system. PRP helpsrestore the thymus gland to optimal functioning capability. The thymus producesthe vital T-cells which fight viruses and antigens. The PRP found in colostrumalso helps balance the overactive immune system present in autoimmune diseases— conditions in which the body actually attacks itself. This makes colostrumextremely effective with illnesses such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome,Fibromyalgia, Multiple Sclerosis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus and Scleraderma.

Colostrum contains Lactoferrin, which has been shown innumerous research studies to be a potent, broad-spectrum natural antibiotic andanti-viral agent (pharmaceutical antibiotics have no effectiveness againstviruses). In a recent study in The Netherlands, lactoferrin proved a powerfulinhibitor of the HIV-1 virus, the main virus which causes AIDS. It alsocontains antibodies against a wide range of bacterial, fungal and protozoalpathogens. Plus, lactoferrin is a potent anti-oxidant which inhibits theharmful effects of free radicals.

Since the onset of almost all infectious and degenerativedisease, including cancer and heart disease, is preceded or accompanied bylowered immune system function, the powerful support that colostrum gives theimmune system can help prevent these dangerous conditions.

Colostrum has been shown to help significantly withIntestinal Permeability (leaky gut syndrome) and irritable bowel syndrome arecaused mostly by exposure to infectious agents such as viruses, bacteria,yeasts (candida), parasites and other toxins. Other causes are numerous as well, including poor diet, alcoholconsumption, anti-inflammatory drugs, cytoxic drugs, and stress reactions fromheart attacks, surgeries, or any form of shock.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFIDS) is a complex disorder,characterized by incapacitating fatigue, flu-like symptoms, neuropsychologicalproblems and immunological abnormalities. Up to 80% of patients also sufferwith a condition known as fibromyalgia which causes severe musculoskeletalaches and pains. Many factors areinvolved with CFIDS, but most experts feel that it is triggered by a viral infection.

Bovine colostrum rebuilds the immune system, destroysviruses, bacteria... and fungi, accelerates healing of all body tissue, helpslose weight, burn fat, increase bone and lean muscle mass, and slows down andeven reverses aging. Colostrum plays atherapeutic role in AIDS, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, autoimmune diseases,allergies, herpes, bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections, gingivitis,colds, the flu, and much more. Colostrum has antioxidant and anti-inflammatoryproperties, and provides many vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and aminoacids. -Daniel G. Clark, MD

Colostrum has been used to successfully treat:Thrombocytopenia, Anemia, Neutropenia, Myasthenia Gravis, Guillain BarreSyndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, Systemic Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, BulluosPamphigoid, Kawasaki's Syndrome, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Crohn's disease,among others. – Professor Judith M. Dwyer, writing in The New England Journalof Medicine.

Colostrum is the perfect food, combining all the crucialimmune and growth factors in the exact synergistic combination necessary topromote life. For many it is considered the ideal alternative to hundreds ofpharmaceutical drugs, from antibiotics to steroids. Research on colostrum hasdocumented benefits from dosages in the range of 2 to 60 grams per day with noknown contraindications, side effects or allergic reactions reported overthousands of years of use. It is even safe for those with lactose intolerance

Summary

Mankind was never designed to eat processed foods,breathe polluted air, drink polluted water, or lead sedentary lives. Colostrumcan help us restore some of our lost balance. It has shown great promise, forexample, in treating autoimmune disorders, which can be traced back to leakygut and nutritional or environmental imbalances. Colostrum can help repair thedamage we do to our gastrointestinal tracts from taking antibiotics as well aspain and other medications, drinking alcohol and acidic beverages, and eatingprocessed, fried, and unhealthy foods. It can help each and every one of us tolead a happier and healthier life.

Informationon this site is provided for informational purposes only. It is not meant tosubstitute for medical advice provided by your physician or other medicalprofessional. You should not use the information contained herein fordiagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing anymedication.

LETTING GO AND MOVING TOWARDS WELLNESS

2011-12-30T19:29:00.001-08:00

"Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see." ~Mark Twain

I've seen every type of specialist there is, and there is no one left to see; what do I do now? Have you experienced something similar? How many of you have exhausted alternative health care therapies, such as physical therapy, and remained in chronic pain? Are you angry, disappointed and frustrated over the fact that you're not getting better? Are you getting worse?

After years of ruling medical issues in or out, taking one prescription after another, trying various treatments, surgeries and seeing therapist after therapist, my health had only deteriorated even further. Frustrated and full of doubt that conventional medicine would ever be able to help me, I started looking for complementary, alternative health care approaches for the following: Interstitial Cystitis, Chronic Pelvic Pain, Back Pain, Levator Ani Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Headaches, Anxiety, Depression, and Prescription Drug Dependency.

The alternative therapies such as physical therapy, nerve blocks, chiropractic care, deep tissue massage and trigger-point therapy gave me mixed results. More often than not, I ended up in more pain instead of receiving the relief I was promised. I was not getting better and the frustration and anger only mounted. Let's talk a bit about the "Pain" for a moment...

Understanding Pain

I am not a psychotherapist but I do have thirty years of life experience with chronic pelvic pain. I talk with women every day who describe to me a sense of contraction, a feeling of tightness and emotional rigidity throughout the body and I identify with both their physical and emotional pain. I connect with these woman on deep emotional levels because I know what it is like to have chronic genital pain and feel that you're not worthy of being loved because you don't feel like a whole woman.

Our bodies respond to pain and the expectation of pain in the same way – whether that pain is physical or emotional, real or imagined. We tighten up and we pull away and as the syndrome progresses, we become defensive and evasive.

Doctors are vague and often refer to chronic bladder/pelvic pain as obscure and misunderstood, and more likely to be symptoms of emotional trauma. Patients begin to lose hope, isolate and do all they can to avoid talking about their pain with family and friends who they doubt believe their pain is real.

Life experience tells me that emotional issues are not the primary cause of chronic pain but rather a co-conspirator with a physical cause. The human body functions as a whole and our bodily systems work in conjunction with one another, including the brain. This, in addition to my extensive research, leads me to the opinion that if you are suffering with mental health issues you must also be suffering with malabsorption. In other words, if your body is not absorbing the nutrients it needs, both the brain and the body will suffer, beginning with the digestive system. A baby with colic is a good example: A colic baby suffers digestive issues and screams in pain. The baby's diet is causing digestive issues, which in turn creates physical pain and emotional distress. Therefore, digestive problems can start as early as infancy.

Based on the stories shared with me by various IC patients, I have determined that they are suffering with emotional stress and exhibit poor dietary habits approximately 96% of the time. Many patients eat the same foods over and over again (usually carbohydrates) or don't eat enough out of fear of being in more pain. This lead me to reading The Mindbody Prescription by Dr. John E. Sarno, which gives greater detail about TMS equivalents: symptoms other than musculoskeletal pain that are caused by the same Mindbody condition. Since then, I have continued to study nutrition and its effects on bodily systems and the brain. It has taken a long time, but after almost a decade it makes sense that "You're as healthy physically and emotionally as what you put into your body"!

Denial Of Pain

The response to emotional pain is often to create a strategy that denies having been hurt physically or emotionally. Some of us become aggressive, others act out by shopping, drinking, overworking or withdrawing. There are as many strategies as there are people.

We all need to heal the injured part of the body (in most cases damage is only permanent when and organ has been removed) and at the same time the inured emotional self. We all know what that self looks like. By caring for oneself through diet and contacting the protective pattern gently, the stresses and fears can begin to release.

It has been said that psychological trauma is not in the mind; it is in the nervous system and the body. By working as a group and by knowing that you deserve to take care of yourself and not necessarily everyone else, you will in time be able to reach those places that have been inaccessible for so long that it causes you a great deal of PAIN. We never want to push or demand for change, we never move faster than your body allows. Change will happen when we let go and more forward. How do we let go? By doing the opposite of that which has become familiar to us.

Here are some ideas of ways to let go....

1) Repeat positive affirmations - "I am safe", "I deserved to be loved", "I deserved to be healthy"....

2) Treat those who piss you off with even more kindness....

3) Learn how to improve your communication skills, ask for what you need and learn to live with less of what you want....

4) Volunteer by doing something you want to do, rather than helping one of your blood sucking relatives or friends ....

5) Teach your kids/husband to be resilient and responsible .......say NO more often............let them make their own sandwich..............teach them how to cook and do laundry.............know that you're not the house slave......you're not a doormat ...........

6) If you're co-dependent, admit it and work on it...........read the book 'Co-Dependent No More'....

7) If you have suffered trauma, whether it be verbal, physical or sexual, there are ways to help yourself............if you need suggestions write to me g.prater.tnc@gmail.com

8) Find a hobby or try doing something that you never had the confidence to attempt....

9) Do something inexpensively or even free each week that is just for you........take a long afternoon nap, give yourself a home facial or pedicure, go to a museum, go to a movie all by yourself, call an old friend and invite him/her for lunch and put your culinary skills to work............

10) Sit and the sun and just take in nature; listen to the sound of the birds chirping ....

I did not grow-up in a household that gave me a sense of safety or comfort (my dad is an alcoholic). At a young age, I began developing physical holding patterns. Of course, at that time I did not realize it, but they have become very clear in hindsight. I was a picky eater, emotional, suffered with headaches, depression and remember suffering with bladder pain as young as 5 years old.

Taking care of myself gave me a remarkable sense of safety and comfort. Taking care of my body allowed my brain to begin healing as well. It has not been a quick process and I still have a ways to go, but once I realized that I deserve to care for myself, I consistently reach emotional places and understandings which had otherwise been inaccessible.

Friends stick around and implement the weekly steps into your life and create a healthy lifestyle that will give you health and happiness.

Gloria P.

Edited by Tom P

Top 10 Influes to Boost Immune System

2011-12-30T18:34:00.000-08:00

1. Fresh Animal Fats (from pastured raised animal products such as meats, eggs, and raw dairy) and cholesterol-rich foods (particularly raw egg yolk).

2. Cold-pressed oils: olive oil, fish oils, seed oils coconut oil.

3. Onions and garlic (the benefits outweigh the toxic properties that you may be a bit sensitive too) they work as an anti-fungal.

4. Eating lots of fresh organic fruits and non-starchy veggies. Regular consumption of greens: parsley, dill, coriander and spring onions.

5. Probiotic supplementation and fermented foods.

6. Contact with animals and nature.

7. Physical activity outdoors. Swimming in lakes, rivers and sea.

8. Exposure to sunlight and sensible sunbathing; careful not to burn.

9. Nine hour of sleep per night and a 30 minute nap.

10. A Positive Attitude.

The Importance of Vitamin A in your diet!

2011-12-30T10:34:00.000-08:00

Vitamin A

“A fat-soluble vitamin or a mixtureof vitamins, especially vitamin A₁ or a mixture of vitamins A₁and A₂, occurring principally in fish-liver oils, milk, and someyellow and dark green vegetables, and functioning in normal cell growth anddevelopment.”

Vitamin A is one of the most important vitamins in yourdiet.

It is the catalyst on which innumerable biochemical process depend. Vitamin A protects the body againstpollutants and free radical, hence against cancer.

Neither protein nor water-soluble vitamins can be utilizedby the body without vitamin A from animal sources.

Vitamin A stimulate the secretion of gastric juices neededfor protein digestion, plays a vital role in building strong bone and richblood, contributes to the production ofRibonucleic acid (RNA) (All cellular organisms use messenger RNA (mRNA) tocarry the genetic information that directs the synthesis of proteins) and is needed for the formation ofvisual purple (Rhodopsin, also known as visual purple, isa biological pigment of the retina that is responsible for both the formationof the photoreceptor cells and the first events in the perception of light).

What sources are of preformed; desired vitamin A?

Butter fat, egg yolks, liver and other organ meats, seafoodand fish liver oils.

Provitamin Sources of Vitamin A (A vitamin precursor thatthe body converts to its active form through normal metabolic processes.Carotene, for example, is a provitamin of vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant)are found in all yellow, red orange or dark green fruits and vegetables. Carotenes are converted to vitamin A in theupper intestine. Vegetarians claim thatthe body’s requirement for vitamin A can be met with carotenes from vegetablessources, but many people-particularly infants, children, diabetics and individuals dealing with autoimmune syndromes(e

specially poor thyroid function) cannot make this conversion. Furthermore, studies have proven that ourbodies cannot convert carotenes into vitamin A without the presence of fat inthe diet.

If you are dealing with a myriad of health issues includingchronic bladder pain and irritable bowel syndrome do you really think your bodycan convert a provitamin such as carotene into “real Vitamin A”? Under optimal conditions, humans can indeedconvert carotenes to vitamin A.

The best sources of vitamin A (when you are ill and tryingto heal) should be obtained from natural sources like yellow butter, egg yolks,organ meats, fish, shellfish and cod liver oil. Vitamin A in the form of a synthetic can be toxic, especially for thosewith impaired liver function and to those whose diet are poor. High level of natural vitamin A has no toxiceffect, in spite of the medical establishment’s warnings, just theopposite.

Vitamin A cannot be absorbed without D. The two vitamins play a crucial role in not only your recovery but in maintaining optimal health.

Nutrients balance equals balanced hormones and balanced hormones equal health.

In health and happiness

Gloria Prater, Whole Health Educator

Probiotics

2011-12-28T18:23:00.000-08:00

We recommend you consider taking a probiotic. After researching various probiotics it has been determine that BioKult is the best and Garden Life Primal Defense HSO Probiotic is good. A common side effect when first starting probiotics is diarrhea if this persist decrease the amount or stop taking probiotic. We are all different and not everyone responds to probiotics and why it is a good idea to incorporate lacto-fermented foods into your daily diet.

What are some sources of probiotics?

Probiotics are found in fermented foods such as kefir, homemade yogurt, sauerkraut, fermented foods which I be sharing how to's and recipes for fermented foods in the near future. Keep in mind baby steps.

What if I do not have money in my budget right now to purchase probiotics?

If you truly cannot afford it, then you clearly have no choice but to skip it. If you can take a maintenance dose, or part of a maintenance dose, do that. Increase your intake of fermented foods accordingly. Cabbage is inexpensive so if money is tight I recommend checking out our Saurkraut (pickle-it) recipe.

Will I heal without taking probiotics?

I believe you will, so long as you begin adopt a healthy diet, attitude and exercise routine. Probiotics just help to speed things up.

Besides if you carry on feeding that pathogen (bad bacteria) in the gut with sugar(s), oils, and processed carbohydrates the probiotics will not have much chance of helping you.

How much bottled probiotic should I take?

Everyone is different. I take one capsule in the morning after I eat breakfast. If you find you have gas or diarrhea cut the capsule in half and pour powder into a small cup of water or add to applesauce and take it that way for a few week then try increasing to 1 capsule.

I recommend taking them for at least 6 months and only if your actually following the step here at healing gut.

Options:

BioKult which you can find HERE

Or A cheaper probiotic which you can find HERE

Or you can wait and learn how to make lacto-fermented veggies.

In health and happiness
Gloria P.

2 Fantastic DIY Alternative Therapies that work

2011-12-27T22:34:00.000-08:00

Abdominal Massage

For adults as well as for infants and young children, massaging the abdominal promotes digestion, alleviates gastric upsets, soothes the nerves related to the area of massage, and benefits the organs that are interconnected with the stomach as well as the intestinal tract. The stomach is considered the “core” of the body. The reason for this is that so much energy within the body transfers through the core. Emotions as well as physical exertion all can be stimulated or related to the core of the human body. An appropriate abdominal massage can increase the effectiveness of all surrounding organs, ease the tension associated with those organs, and release the inner emotions carried in the core. Abdominal massages are one of the few forms of relief that one is capable of providing for him or her self. If you are fortunate enough to afford a weekly massage session don't be afraid to speak up and ask the therapist to massage your abdomen.

Meditation

The meditation methods you start out with should be very simple ones - breathing and visualizing techniques of meditation. Regular meditation reduces the levels of negative emotions, boost the immune system and increase over all well-being.

Genetically Modified Food

2011-12-23T12:32:00.001-08:00

Is It Safe for You?

DEPENDING on where you live, you may have had some genetically modified (GM) food in your breakfast, lunch, or dinner today. It might have been in the form of potatoes with a built-in insect repellent or tomatoes that stay firm longer after being picked. In any case, the GM food or ingredient may not have been labeled, and your palate could hardly distinguish it from the natural one.

Even as you read these lines, such GM crops as soybeans, maize, rapeseed, and potatoes are growing in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, China, Mexico, and the United States. According to one report, "by 1998, 25 percent of corn, 38 percent of soybeans, and 45 percent of cotton grown in the United States were genetically altered, either to make the crops resistant to weedkillers or to produce their own pesticides." By the end of 1999, an estimated 100 million acres [40 million ha] were covered with GM crops in commercial cultivation worldwide, though not all of these are food crops.

Is genetically altered food safe for you? Do the scientific techniques used to produce GM crops pose any threat to the environment? In Europe the debate over GM foods is heating up. Said a protester from England: "My only objection to genetically modified foods is that they're unsafe, unwanted and unnecessary."

How Is Food Genetically Altered?

The science behind GM food is called food biotechnology—the use of modern genetics to improve plants, animals, and microorganisms for food production. Of course, the concept of tinkering with living things is almost as old as agriculture itself. The first farmer who bred his best bull with the best cow in his herd to improve the stock, instead of allowing the animals to breed randomly, was implementing biotechnology in a rudimentary sense. The first baker who used yeast enzymes to make bread rise was likewise using a living thing to produce an improved product. The one feature common to these traditional techniques was the use of natural processes to bring about changes in foods.

Modern biotechnology likewise employs living organisms to make or modify products. But unlike traditional methods, modern biotechnology allows for modifying the genetic material of organisms directly and precisely. It enables the transfer of genes between completely unrelated organisms, allowing for combinations unlikely to occur by conventional means. Breeders can now take qualities from other organisms and put them into the genome of a plant—for instance, frost tolerance from fish, disease resistance from viruses, and insect resistance from soil bacteria.

Suppose that a farmer does not want his potatoes or apples to turn brown when they are cut or bruised. Researchers come to the rescue by removing the gene that is responsible for this browning and replacing it with an altered version that blocks browning. Or let us assume that a beet grower would like to plant earlier in order to reap a better harvest. Ordinarily he couldn't because the beets would freeze in the cold weather. Biotechnology comes into play when genes from fish that easily survive in cold water are transplanted into the beets. The result is a GM beet that can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F. [-6.5°C], more than twice as cold as the lowest temperature beets can typically withstand.

Such traits that are the result of single-gene transfers, however, have limited effectiveness. To alter more complex traits, such as growth rate or drought resistance, is quite another matter. Modern science is still unable to manipulate whole groups of genes. After all, many of these genes have not even been discovered yet.

A New Green Revolution?

Even the limited genetic modification of crops fills biotechnology's proponents with optimism. They say that GM crops promise a new green revolution. A leader of the biotechnology industry declares that genetic engineering is "a promising tool in the effort to provide more food" to a global population that grows by about 230,000 people every day.

Already, such crops have helped to hold down the cost of food production. Food plants have been fortified with a gene that produces a natural pesticide, eliminating the need to spray clouds of toxic chemicals over acres of crops. Modified crops in the works include beans and grains with much higher levels of protein—of no small benefit to poorer parts of the world. Such "superplants" could pass their useful new genes and traits on to succeeding generations, yielding more bountiful harvests on marginal land in poor, overpopulated countries.

"There is certainly much to be said for improving the lot of the farmers of this world," said the president of a leading biotechnology firm. "And we'll do that—by using biotechnology to do on the molecular and single-gene level what plant breeders have been doing with 'whole plants' for centuries. We will create better products, that meet specific needs and will do it faster than ever before."

However, according to agricultural scientists, the rush to promote genetic engineering as a solution to world food shortages is undermining current research on crops. Although it is less exotic, this research is more effective and could also benefit the poorer parts of the world. "We shouldn't be driven by this unproven technology when there are many more efficient solutions to food problems," says Hans Herren, an expert on fighting crop diseases.

Ethical Concerns

On top of possible public-health and environmental risks, some feel that the genetic modification of crops and other living organisms presents moral and ethical challenges. Scientist and activist Douglas Parr observed: "Genetic engineering crosses a fundamental threshold in the human manipulation of the planet, changing the nature of life itself." Jeremy Rifkin, author of the book The Biotech Century, put it this way: "Once you can cross all biological boundaries, you begin to see a species as simply genetic information that is fluid. That brings us into a whole new way to conceptualise not only our relationship with nature, but how we use it." He therefore asked: "Does life have intrinsic or just utility value? What is our obligation to future generations? What is our sense of responsibility to the creatures with which we coexist?"

Others, Prince Charles of England included, argue that transferring genes between utterly unrelated species "takes us into the realms that belong to God, and to God alone." Students of the Bible firmly believe that God "is the source of life." (Psalm 36:9) However, there is no real evidence that God disapproves of the selective breeding of animals and plants, something that has helped our planet to sustain the billions of people living on it. Only time will tell if modern biotechnology will harm humans and the environment. If biotechnology really does encroach upon "the realms that belong to God," then—out of love and concern for humankind—he can reverse such developments.

Potential Dangers?

Biotechnology has moved at such a dizzying pace that neither the law nor regulating agencies can keep up with it. Research can scarcely begin to prevent unforeseen consequences from arising. A growing chorus of critics warn of unintended results, ranging from severe economic dislocation for the world's farmers to environmental destruction and threats to human health. Researchers warn that there are no long-term, large-scale tests to prove the safety of genetically modified (GM) food. They point to a number of potential dangers.

Allergic reaction. If a gene producing a protein that causes allergic responses ended up in corn, for instance, people who suffer from food allergies could be exposed to grave danger. Despite the fact that food-regulating agencies require companies to report whether altered food contains any problem proteins, some researchers fear that unknown allergens could slip through the system.
Increased toxicity. Some experts believe that genetic modification may enhance natural plant toxins in unexpected ways. When a gene is switched on, besides having the desired effect, it may also set off the production of natural toxins.
Resistance to antibiotics. As part of the genetic modification of plants, scientists use what are called marker genes to determine if the desired gene has been successfully embedded. As most marker genes provide resistance to antibiotics, critics fear that this could contribute to the growing problem of antibiotic resistance. Other scientists, however, counter that such marker genes are genetically scrambled before use, thus alleviating this danger.
Spread of "superweeds." One of the biggest fears is that once modified crops are planted, genes will escape via seeds and pollen to weedy relatives, creating "superweeds" that are able to resist herbicides.
Harm to other organisms. In May 1999, researchers from Cornell University reported that monarch butterfly caterpillars that ate leaves dusted with pollen from GM corn sickened and died. While some question the validity of this study, there is still some concern that other nontargeted species could be harmed.
Demise of safe pesticides. Among the most successful GM crops are some that contain a gene that produces a protein toxic to insect pests. However, biologists warn that exposing pests to the toxin produced by this gene will help the pests develop resistance and thus render pesticides useless.

Appeared in Awake! April 22, 2000

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Natural Products that DO NOT Contain GMOs
(according to the producer)

by Bill Sanda
Director, Public Affairs

Dairy Products:
The following dairies state that all of their products are made with 100% organic ingredients. Their animals are not treated with rBGH or other hormones and are only fed organically grown feed. There are no bioengineered dairy cultures or enzymes in their products. If, however, a product lists "natural flavors" on the label, that product might contain a genetically engineered ingredient.

Harmony Hills Dairy
Horizon Dairy
Morningland Dairy
Organic Valley Dairy
Radiance Dairy
Straus Family Creamery

Pulses: All Eden pulses, including Organic Black Soy and Organic Seasoned; Beans (garbanzo or chickpea, red kidney, pinto, black turtle, adzuki, mung, great northern or cannellini, lima), Lentils (red, green, brown), Peas (split, split yellow, black-eyed or cow)
Grain: All Eden grains, including Organic Pearled Barley; Amaranth, Barley, Hulled Barley, Buckwheat Groats (Kasha), Cracked Bulgar Wheat, Millet, Kamut Wheat Grain, Quinoa, Rice (short grain brown, wild, white arborico, sweet brown), Spelt Grain, Wheat Berries, Red Wheat Berries, Oats (steel cut, hulled)
Flours: Arrowhead Mills (White Rice, Kamut); All Eden flours, including Organic Golden Amber Durum Wheat; Amaranth, Barley, Buckwheat, Farina, Garbanzo Chickpea, Millet, Oat, Rice, Rye, Spelt, Wheat, Oat Bran, Wheat Bran
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, Brazils, Cashnews, Hazelnuts, Macdamia, Peanuts, Pecans, Pine Nuts, Pistachio Nuts, Walnuts, Pumpkin Seeds, Sesame Seeds, Sunflower Seeds
Sweeteners: Eden Organic Malted Grain Sweeteners, Kogee Organic Cane Sugar, Organic Cane Sugar (available from Wholesome Foods and Florida Crystals), Pure USA Honey, Sucanat North America
Syrups: Eden Organic Malted Grain Sweeteners, Wholesome Foods Organic Blackstrap Molasses, Andersons Pure Maple Syrup, Cary's Maple Syrup (Premium), Hauke Honey Pure Maple Syrup, Spring Tree Pure Maple Syrup
Olive Oils (Extra Virgin): Alessi Olio, Da Vinci (and Extra Light, 100% Pure), Eden Selected, Filippo Berio (and Extra Light), Gourmet Aritrian, Grey Poupon, L'estornell, Odd Monk, Olitalia, Peloponnese, Spectrum Natural, Tassos
Other Oils: Eden (Organic Sesame, Toasted Sesame, Hot Pepper Toasted Sesame, and Safflower Oils), Sigg Grapeseed Oil, Olitalia Grapeseed Oil, Loriva Sesame Oil, Spectrum Natural (Almond Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, Avocado Oil, Coconut Oil, Safflower Oil, Walnut Oil), Organic Oils
Vinegars: Da Vinci Balsamic, Eden Apple Cider, L'estornell River Run Hot Pepper, Spectrum Organic (Raspberry Wine, Red Wine, White Wine)
Salad Dressings and Condiments: Cross And Blackwell Capers, Spectrum Zesty Italian Dressing, Jaffa Gold Lemon Juice, Melinda Extra Hot Sauce, Annie's Farmhouse Maple Mustard, Earth Fire Products Chutney, Eden Organic Mustard (and imported condiments), Sandhill Mustard, Santa Barbara Olive Company California Ripe Large or Jumbo Pitted Olives, Muir Glen Organic Tomato Ketchup, Cascadian Farm Organic Sauerkraut, Eden Organic Sauerkraut, Krinos Imported Grape Leaves
Nut and Fruit Butters: Arrowhead Mills (Certified Organic Peanut Butter, Sesame Tahini), Eastwind Nut Butters (Peanut, Cashew, Tahini, Almond), Eden Organic Apple Butter, Joyva Sesame Tahini, Maranata Roasted (Pistachio Butter, Filbert Butter, Sunflower Butter, Almond Butter), Maranata (Sesame Tahini, Cashew Butter, Almond Butter) Once Again Hazelnut Butter, Sahadi Sesame Butter, Santa Cruz Organic (Apple Apricot Sauce, Apple Sauce), Westbrae Natural (Raw Sesame Tahini, Toasted Tahini)
If specific products are not mentioned after the brand name, then the brand name is non-GMO in that particular category:
Breads: French Meadow Bakery, Garden of Eatin' (blue corn and corn tortillas), Lundberg Rice Cakes, Manna, New Pioneer Co-op (farm bread, olive farm, raisin pecan, sourdough, wheat), Big Kitchen
Canned Beans: American Prairie, Bearitos Refried Fat Free, Eden, Shari's, Westbrae Natural Garbanzo
Salsas: Garden Valley Naturals, Muir Glen, New Bounty Organic, Parrot
Pasta Sauces: Eden (Spaghetti Sauce, Pizza-Pasta Sauce), Garden Valley Organic, Millina's Finest Organic, Muir Glen Organic
Pastas/Noodles: Eden, Millina's Finest, Vita Spelt
Tofu/Tempeh/Soy/Miso: American Pride Tofu, Earth Fire Products, Eden products, White Wave (Organic Wild Rice Tempeh, Five Grain Tempeh, Soy Tempeh, Sea Veggie Tempeh, Organic Tofu)
Frozen Foods: Cascadian Farms (organic broccoli, corn, plain vegetables, raspberries, blueberries, strawberries), Sno-Pac (organic vegetables)
Teas: Alvita, Celestial Seasonings (Except for the vitamin enriched ones), Choice organic, Eden Great Eastern Sun, Long Life organic, Maharishi Ayur-Veda (Vata, Pitta and Kapha Churnas and Teas, and Raja's Cup), Traditional Medicinals, Yogi Organic
Juices: Organic with no vitamins added (Check labels carefully): After the Fall (Vermont Harvest Moon, Apple Cider, Grape Juice), Crofters (Guava, Strawberry, Papaya, Raspberry, Apricot, Pink Lemonade), Eden (Organic Apple, Organic Tomato, Organic Cherry), Kedem (100% Pure Grape Juice), Knudsen (Cherry, Grape, Mango, Pear, Strawberry), Mountain Sun (Organic Strawberry, Peach, Blueberry, Cranberry), Santa Cruz (Ginger, Apricot, Cherry, Raspberry, Apple)
Chips/snacks/candies: Bearitos Organic Corn Chips, Eden, Little Bear Lite Organic Popcorn, Manischewitz Passover Matzos (tea matzos and whole wheat tea matzos), Reeds Crystallized Ginger, St. Claire Organic (Winter Mints, Licorice Sweets, Cinnamon Snaps, Cherry Sweets, Lemon Tarts, Peppermints, Cocoa Sweets, Ginger Snaps), dried non-GE fruit (either unsweetened or approved non-GE sweetener), Kettle Organic Potato Chips, Westbrae Organic Potato Chips
Miscellaneous: Duchy Originals, Eden Soymilk, Imagine Organic Original Rice Dream, Kogee Organic Non-Dairy Creamer, Mrs. Denson's Cookies, Walker's Shortbread

Benefits of Soaked and Fermented Grains

2011-12-21T13:19:00.000-08:00

What are whole grains?

Whole grains are a natural source of protein as well as a source of carbohydrates and are made into many different kinds of foods.

Common whole grains include:

Wheat, Oat, Barley - Hulled and Dehulled (not Pearl), Maize, Brown rice, Farro, Spelt, Emmer, Einkorn, Kamut, Rye, Millet, Quinoa, Amaranth, Triticale, Teff, Buckwheat.

What are refined grains?

Refined grains, in contrast to whole grains, refers to grain products consisting of grains or grain flours that have been significantly modified from their natural composition. The modification process generally involves the mechanical removal of bran and germ, either through grinding or selective sifting. Further refining includes mixing, bleaching, and brominating; additionally, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and iron are often added back in to nutritionally enrich the product. Because the added nutrients represent a fraction of the nutrients removed, refined grains are considered nutritionally inferior to whole grains.

Common refined-grain products include:

White rice, White flour, White bread, Hominy, Pasta (non-wholewheat varieties).

Today, many nutritionist/dietitians recommend the consumption of whole grains and not refined flours and polished rice which is harmful to our health. Why? All grains contain phytic acid (an organic acid in which phosphorus is bound) in the outer layer or gran. Untreated phytic acid can combine with calcium, magnesium, copper, iron and especially zinc in the intestinal tract and block their absorption. This is why a diet high in whole grains and or refined grains may lead to serious mineral deficiencies and bone loss.

Our ancestors soaked and ferment their grains before consuming them; the important thing to realize is that modern science has discovered that soaking grains neutralizes enzyme inhibitors, present in all seeds, and encourages the production of numerous beneficial enzymes. The action of these enzymes also increases the amounts of many vitamins, especially B Vitamins. Scientist have learned that the proteins in grains, especially gluten, are very difficult to digest. A diet high in whole grains that have not been soaked, particularly high-gluten grains like wheat, puts an enormous strain on the whole digestive system. When the digestive system breaks down, the results take the form of allergies, celiac disease, mental illness, chronic indigestion and overgrowth of various bacteria's such as candida albicans. Soaking and fermenting, gluten and other difficult-to-digest proteins are partially broken down into simpler components that are more readily available for absorption.

Grains have been soaked around the world for centuries. Ethiopians are known for making Injera bread, teff flour is mixed with water and allowed to ferment for several days, as with sourdough starter. Mexican corn cakes, called Pozol is made by fermenting corn dough, which is rolled into balls or loafs and may be preserved in banana leaf. The drink, which is a "sort of whitish porridge," is made by soaking the dough in water. Europeans made slow-rise bread from fermented starters; in America the pioneers were famous for their sourdough bread, pancakes and biscuits. Ogi is a fermented cereal porridge from West Africa, typically made from maize, sorghum, or millet. Traditionally, the grains are soaked in water for up to three days, before wet milling and sieving to remove husks. The filtered cereal is then allowed to ferment for up to three days until sour. It is then boiled into a pap, or cooked to make a stiff porridge. Many of our senior citizens may remember that in earlier times the instructions on the oatmeal box called for an overnight soaking.

Grains fall into two categories. Grains that contain gluten, such as oats, rye, barley and wheat, should not be consumed unless they have been soaked or fermented and grains that do not contain gluten such as buckwheat, rice and millet are easier to digest and do not have to necessarily be soaked but they should be gently cooked for at least two hours in a high -mineral gelatinous bone stock/broth.

Spelt and ancient grain of the wheat has been praised as being particularly suited for those who have digestive issues. It contains gluten and gives excellent results for sourdough bread. Some studies indicate that spelt gluten breaks down easily during fermentation, making it more digestible than modern varieties of wheat. Some people who are allergic to modern varieties of wheat report better results when they use kamut or spelt instead.

Is boxed cereal a healthy breakfast?

There is no denying that our children's health is being compromised by the consumption of processed foods. Cereal including granola, a popular "health" food made from grains subjected to only to dry heat or the extrusion process are extremely indigestible. Boxed cereal are made by the extrusion process, in which little flakes and shapes are formed at high temperatures and pressures. Extrusion processing destroys many valuable nutrients in the grains, caused fragile oils to become rancid and render certain proteins toxic. Granola and boxed cereal should have no place in your pantry, we do not produce hardy children on boxed cereals but we can produce healthy children by preparing our children oatmeal, porridges, pancakes, breads, biscuits, crepes, muffins and so forth by soaking grains overnight before they are cooked. If you buy grains hat have been rolled or cracked, they should be in packages and not taken from bins, where they have a tendency to go rancid. Even better, buy organic or biodynamic whole grains and roll or crack them yourself by using a roller or
grain grinder.

Sourdough Bread Recipe

(Makes 3 large loaves or 5 -6 smaller loaves)

2 qts sourdough starter
13 cups freshly ground spelt or kamut
2 1/2 tablespoons coarse sea salt
1 1/2 cups cold filtered water

Place starter, salt, and 1 cup water in a large bowl and mix with a wooden spoon until the salt crystals have dissolved. Slowly mix in the flour. Towards the end yo will find it easier to mix with your hands. You may add the other 1/2 cup of water if the dough becomes too thick. It should be rather soft and easy to work. Knead by pulling and folding over, right in the bowl, for 10 to 15 minutes or knead in batches in your food processor.

Without pressing down the dough, shape into desired shapes, place into 3 large well-buttered loaf pans or 5-6 smaller loaf pans. Cut a few slits in the top of the dough, cover and let rise from 4 to 12 hours, depending on the temperature. Bake at 350 degrees for about an hour. Allow to cool before slicing. The bread will keep for up to a week with refrigeration.

Busy lifestyle don't have time to make your own bread? Order sourdough bread made with celtic sea salt from Mountain Eagle Bakery, MT 406-222-3617; Grindstone Bakery (707) 284--2016; or Miller's Bakery, CA (530) 532-6384

To learn more about whole grains and how to soak and prepare them I recommend going to http://gnowfglins.com/

In health and happiness
Gloria Prater, Whole Health Educator

Source:

Prelief Alert

2011-12-19T21:39:00.000-08:00

If your suffering with IC and a myriad of symptoms such as gastrointestinal issues you might want to reconsider taking antacids.

If your suffering with gastro, bowel, digestive and or food intolerances, it's more likely than not, that the hydrochloric acid in your stomach is off. Antacids such as tums or prelief decrease stomach acid worsen digestive issues. Stomach acid aids in the digestion and absorption of vitamins and mineral nutrients.

Prelief is calcium glycerophosphate. Prelief® contains calcium and phosphorus. If you have BPS aka Interstitial Cystitis your no stranger to pain and your probably suffering sensitivities to various foods and beverages.

Prelief was introduced to IC patients during the early 2000's. It promises IC patients that they can enjoy a cup of coffee and more. There are major consequences with the use of calcium phosphate and if your using or considering Prelief you may want to read this alert.

"Health Science Institute Medical Advisor Marty Milner, N.D., cautions that the calcium/phosphorus compound reduces the level of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, compromising the digestion of protein and dietary forms of calcium.The side-effects from taking calcium phosphate may include nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, constipation, dry mouth, increased thirst and increased urination. Side-effects that occur when taking calcium phosphate as a calcium supplement are all health risk indicators. Urinary Tract can also be affected by calcium phosphate."

Supplemental doses of prelief can cause changes in the amount of urine outputted as well increased need to urinate. These side effects can also be related to the increased thirst that can result from calcium phosphate supplementation.

There isn't a "magic pill" that will enable any of us to continue eating foods that we are sensitive to or foods that are clearly bad not only for IC patients but for the general public.

However; the answer is simple - eat whole foods and learn how to prepare them properly. To learn more join the IC Friends Community by clicking on this link http://www.icfriends.ning.com

Start by eliminating processed foods that are difficult to digest, nutrient depleted and full of chemicals. Avoid beverages that have caffeine, sugar, aspartame, white flour, vegetable oils and toxic properties which all contribute to digestive disorder, diabetes, heart disease and cancer.

Below read the actually warning that is given by the company who manufactures Prelief - Please read!

"Here is important information that you need to know about acid blocking drugs… "Acid blockers" shut down your stomach’s acid. But stomach acid is essential to both your digestion and your body's defense mechanism against bacteria; stomach acid is actually a first stop in the body’s germ-defense system. When your stomach’s acid is shut down, ingested bacteria may survive in the stomach and then work their way back up your esophagus and into your lungs or down into the intestinal tract or kidneys. You may become more vulnerable to respiratory, intestinal or kidney infections.

Would you not agree that this warning contradicts the home page of their website which claims there are no side effect and Prelief is safe? Everyone is out to make a buck off the back of the sick and suffering and that includes manufactures like Prelief and websites that profit by selling these products.

Ask yourself - Is is worth taking prelief?

Wishing you health and happiness

Gloria Prater, Whole Health Educator and Nutritional Consultant

References:Health Science Institute Health SquarePDR Edition 2009 Prelief. comOne last note: It is very disturbing to think that there are associations and networks out there that represent IC patients who advocate for products that have not been researched enough, can cause long term effects and cause IC symptoms to progress. It is no wonder it is never ending. Before taking any over-the-counter supplement repeat the phrases "You are what you eat/digest" and "Less is best"

Mixed Messages

2011-12-19T21:14:00.000-08:00

It is crazy to think that we can keep doing what have been doing (to beat, manage or rid ourselves from IC Pain) while expecting the outcome to be any different than it has been.

If we truly want results, we are going to have to start living a healthier existence.

But exactly what changes should we make?

Daily, we encounter an endless barrage of contradictory opinions and opposing interpretations of practically every aspect of treatment for IC. Pelvic pain is so rife with conflicting theories that we have no idea what to believe or who to trust. Diet can especially confusing. The majority tells us that we should not be drinking any type of coffee yet, we see websites associated with IC selling coffee that they claim is low acid. I have study coffee inside and out and in my opinion no one should be drinking coffee not just IC patients.

Confusion seems to be the only constant in IC Management. A new treatment or medication almost becomes "Vogue" and each one hyped as "the answer" to our IC woes. Only to find out from others who are also on the internet searching for relief that they are still suffering with chronic pain despite, DMSO, Elmiron, Tens, Interstim Implant, Diet, Anti-Anxiety and Pain Medications.

Interstim Implant and Tens units seem to be the latest "craze" although they are hardly new. They have become more popular because when all else fails in treating pelvic and bladder pain the insurance companies finally roll over and agree to pay for these treatments/units.

I was one of the first recipients to receive the Interstim implant for "frequency" after finally being approved by the FDA. I had been bed ridden for almost a year and felt I had exhausted all my options so, I agreed to have the implant. (Interstim does not help with pain and don't let anyone tell you it does).

I received the implant in the early 2000's and the first 4 years I had no problems other than it hardly made a difference. One day while getting up to answer my telephone I got a sharp stabbing pain were my implant was located (upper left butt cheek) and fell to the floor. I got up and looked in the mirror and I had blood that had built-up underneath the skin and all around the site of the implant.

I immediately call the doctor and made an appointment to see him that day. The doctor confirmed that it was infected and had to come out. The implant came out, I was put on mega doses of antibiotics which, I might add was kind enough to bring me out of a 4 year remission and I would suffer worse than I ever before for the next 14 months. The new implant went in and never worked as a matter of fact I now had worse pain in my lower back and running down both of my legs. I had the implant removed permanently on June 6, 2010 and it left me with permanent nerve damage and scarring.

I began thinking that this is insanity to keep doing the same things and expecting a different outcome. I began to take a look at my life. I made an inventory and slowly transitioned myself into a state of well-being. I improve the quality of my physical health, mental health and my environment. I finally stopped fighting and began taking care of myself. I admitted that so long as I was attracted to the allure of the quick fix I was powerless over the chronic pain and I would continue to suffer.

How did I do it? I did the work! And, you can too! And guess what it doesn't cost you a dime.

I began by taking baby steps. I starting to simplify my life in what areas I could at that particular time in my life for example I started with giving up coffee.

Join the IC Friends Community and begin learning how to transition from chronic pain and depression to the life you’re missing out on! http://www.icfriends.ning.com

We are all individuals true but, the fact of the matter is, as different as we are, we are alike, we all have the same body design. A person who is resistant to doing the work will often use phrases like "just because it didn't work for you doesn't meant it won't work for me” and they continue to do the same conventional things with little to no results. The truth of the matter is conventional treatments for pelvic pain have not been successful, 20% out of 100 is not success.

I understand that this post may seem harsh to some of you and I apologize if you feel as if I have dash your hopes. I was on that merry-go-round and I know for a fact that it added to my stress and translated into debilitating pain.

I only began to heal emotionally and physically when I started making changes in my lifestyle.

I can tell you this for a fact, that the few people who are having success with managing IC have implemented healthy living practices into their daily lives.

Questions and Comments Welcome!

In Health and Happiness
Gloria Prater

EAT YOUR CRUCIFEROUS VEGGIES!

2011-12-18T15:33:00.000-08:00

It is generally accepted that high levels of estrogen are associated with cancer of the breast, uterus and cervix; with cystic breast disease, uterine fibroids and endometriosis; with heavy bleeding and premenstrual syndrome; with depressed thyroid function; and with fluid retention and weight gain. Some lesser known associations are the following, as reported in the Nutri-Spec Letter of Guy R. Schenker, DC (1-800-736-4320):

Estrogen levels increase under the stress of injury, surgery, exposure to cold, infection and fasting. (Am J Vet Res, Feb 1998; Keio J Med, Sept 1989; Prog Clin Biol Res, 1989; J Clin Endocrine Metabl, 1974; Am J Clin Nutri, 1989)

Alcoholism is associated with abnormally high levels of estrogen. (S Gastroienterol, Oct 1988 German)

Estrogen exacerbates symptoms of allergies and asthma. (Rev Pheumol Clin, Oct 1999, Vol 55, No 5, Pages 296-300; Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol, Sep 1998, Vol 81 No 3, Pages 243-6)

It is very important to eat cruciferous vegetables every day for protection against diseases that may be induced by exposure to environmental estrogens. As raw cruciferous vegetables contain goitrogens, it is best to eat them fermented, because fermentation neutralizes these thyroid-depressing substances. (Cooking also neutralizes the goitrogens, but also deactivates I3C.) In fact, low rates of breast cancer in Polish women have been attributed to their daily consumption of sauerkraut. (Science News 9/23/00)

A Free Guide to Preserving/Canning/Fermenting Foods