Health Test Dummy

Healthy Eating Resources How To Maximize Your Food Budget

2011-04-18T16:48:00.000-07:00

Mmmm.... Rare, delicious steak!

Recently, I have been called the, “Scary Meat Lady”, since I am constantly sharing articles about ‘meat glue’, ‘ammonia washes’ and other harmful practices of the meat industry. Since I also tout my affinity for real, untainted, wholesome, non-genetically modified, chemical-free food, I have also been asked as to where I get my grass-fed beef, free-range poultry and other staple items contained in a whole-foodie’s refrigerator and pantry.

Well, here is my all-inclusive post on the subject of not only finding quality food, but also economical methods of doing so and the topic regarding where to compromise for the sake of stretching your almighty dollar.

For those of you outside of the Pacific Northwest, I must apologize and say that I tailored this post to those of us looking to get our local meat, produce and baking necessities through a local resource. I hope to do another post that will address more 'online' resources, which would be more accessible and useful for a broader range of an audience, outside of Western Washington.

I will begin with a Q & A format with common question and answers that I often field as to the WHY and WHAT to look for in quality food.

If you are unaware, I believe in more than just ‘Organic’ or ‘All natural’ food labeling (in fact, most of these labels are quite the joke, based on the true FDA regulations on what ‘organic’ or ‘all natural’ can be. Let’s just say that big manufacturers pay exorbitant amounts of money, year after year, re-branding and marketing their products to us before they even THINK about making that product ACTUALLY healthy for consumption.

So, let me hoist myself up to my soapbox and address a couple of common questions or misnomers.

Q: Why Raw Milk?
A: Raw milk is an outstanding source of nutrients including beneficial bacteria such as lactobacillus acidophilus, vitamins and enzymes, and is possibly one of the finest sources of calcium available.
Pasteurized milk has been heated above 145 - 150 degrees in order to kill many possibly occurring pathogens. Based on a study conducted in Australia, children who consumed ‘treated’ dairy products had a very high incidence of allergies, asthma and ‘Atopic sensitization” or skin problems. The remaining group of children studied grew up on raw, unprocessed farm milk and had a much, much lower level of allergies, asthma and ‘Atopic sensitization” or skin problems.

Pasteurizing milk destroys enzymes, diminishes vitamin, denatures fragile milk proteins, destroys vitamin B12, and vitamin B6, kills beneficial bacteria and promotes pathogens. You may notice that raw milk left out will sour naturally but pasteurized milk will rot. This is because the beneficial bacteria in the raw milk helps to keep putrefactive bacteria under control. Pasteurized milk, however, does not have any of the beneficial bacteria left to keep it from rotting.
Pasteurization also destroys 20 percent of the iodine present in raw milk, causes constipation and generally takes from the milk its most vital qualities.

Then, of course there is the issue of the antibiotics, pesticides and growth hormones and the fact that nearly all commercial dairy cows are raised on grains, not grass, like they were designed to. This will change the composition of the fats in the milk, especially the CLA content.

Recent figures published regarding the spread of tuberculosis by milk show, among other facts, that over a period of five years, during which time 70 children belonging to a special organization received a pint of raw milk daily, only one case of the disease occurred. During a similar period when pasteurized milk had been given, 14 cases were reported.
And, hey, raw milk just tastes better! Also, Raw Milk usually comes from a Jersey Cow, with more nutrient-rich milk and contains a higher content of good, tasty fat in it! (Taking fat out of the milk is a crime against, not only nature, but your body as well. The milk, without the beneficial cream is no longer a 'health' food.).

Compared to average milk, a glass of all-Jersey milk has greater nutritional value: 15% to 20% more protein, 15% to 18% more calcium, and 10% to 12% more phosphorous, along with considerably higher levels of an essential vitamin, B12.

Q: Why is Raw Milk so costly?

A: The commercial ‘elephant in the room’ here, is that for a farmer, selling raw, untreated milk means keeping an extremely sanitary milking and storing environment, with several Federal regulations and costly certifications to adhere to. On the other side of the fence, we have a large, mass-producing dairy farm that, although they may follow high sanitary standards, they can just ‘treat’ (boil/ pasteurize) any and ALL diseased milk and no profit is lost! The Raw milk farmer must dump any and ALL diseased milk and if his cow is sick, he doesn’t use antibiotics, therefore thousands of dollars are lost if he must ‘do away with’ his prized cow.

Do you see why it costs $8 – $12 for a gallon of raw milk, compared to $1.99 of ‘treated’ milk? Mass producing food in this country has created a type of ‘manufactured’ product, reducing the upfront costs for the producer, while passing on the ‘savings’ to us, however, no one told you how the quality has gone down along with that great, new low price!

The cost of food has been reduced so drastically in the past 50 years that we now find the price for high quality food ‘ridiculous’ because we’ve pushed food to the very smallest regions of our monthly budget. Our priorities have shifted, along with the paradigm and I’m asking you to challenge yourself with your own paradigm shift in regards to the value of your family's own health and well-being.

Q: What about the dangers of consuming raw milk?
A: Well, like Dr. Mercola says, “While it is certainly possible to become sick from drinking contaminated raw milk, it is also possible to become sick from almost any food source. But it seems that raw milk has been unfairly singled out as a risk, when only a very small risk exists.”
In fact, back when both raw and pasteurized milk were allowed to be sold, side by side, the percentage of contamination incidents was identical between the two!

Q: Why Grass-fed/ Free-range?
A: Cows that are allowed to feed in a pasture up until slaughter are not only happier, but their meat is also more nutritious (cows were NOT designed to eat GMO corn and soy feed).
It also eliminates the feedlots’ run-off issue that is HUGE environmental and health hazard!

Commercially raised chickens are kept inside, without access to grasses and bugs (a free-range egg has a VERY vibrant yolk, with loads more Omega 3’s than a ‘housed’ chicken) and such ‘confined’ chickens are subject to contracting numerous diseases, forcing the farmer to administer antibiotics and other nasty chemicals into them. They are given growth hormones in order to ‘grow’ a chicken much faster and in a shorter amount of time than is natural. Not only is this not a ‘happy’ environment for the poor bird, but it is also extremely unhealthy for you and your family, when that meat hits your plate and ends up in your stomach. Science has proven time and time again that one of the worst foods that you could possibly eat is chicken and that’s because 90% of the available poultry out there is this ‘diseased’/ genetically altered bird (which are now more and more resistant to antibiotics than ever before!).

Grass-fed/ Free-range products are clean and safe!
When you choose to eat meat, eggs, and dairy products from animals raised on pasture, you are improving the welfare of the animals, helping to put an end to environmental degradation, helping small-scale ranchers and farmers make a living from the land, helping to sustain rural communities, and giving your family the healthiest possible food. It’s a win-win-win-win situation.

Q: Where can I obtain Grass-fed/ Free-range meat?
A: More and more sources are becoming available as people are becoming more educated on the benefits, quality and safety of such food, however, the cost is a bit higher and is not always easy to find.
As Spring and Summer approaches, make yourself familiar with local Farmer’s Markets. The one in Federal Way is pretty awesome and my favorite butcher will sell his ‘wares’ there, alongside organic produce and hand-made crafts (try only to buy ONE awesome pair of earrings and some chocolate-covered fruit on a stick so that you have more money to shop!). Kent has one that is right down by the Train Station and Tacoma supposedly has a very robust one. Personally, I make note as to when certain ones will be open and where and then stick them in my Google Calendar, with a text reminder to be sent to me in advance, so that I do not forget.

Beef:
In Enumclaw, Olson's Meats does provide some free-range beef, but when I asked, they also give the cows 'feed'. The Corn in most 'feed' flushes most of the healthy CLA's right out of the meat, leaving it less nutritious. I see that they do offer 'antibiotic-free', grain-fed beef, which is better than what you would typically find in a major grocery (chain) store, but they are a bit pricey. (Grass-fed, doesn’t ALWAYS mean grass-finished! BE SURE TO ASK!)
Acres in Zion uses Olson's as their butcher, but THEY do indeed sell full-pastured/ grass-fed, hormone & antibiotic-free animals! (And their pricing, with butcher fees is well worth the order). The reason I have not ordered with them, however, is because you need to purchase the cow in large bundles (whole, half or a quarter, or go into a ‘cow share’ with other parties to pitch in and reduce the butcher fees) and my budget hardly ever allows me to make such a large purchase at one time.

In Auburn, right by the Hwy 18 freeway entrance & exit off of Hwy 164, my favorite butcher is Proper British Meats. Robin will tell you what is not gluten-free and makes all-natural beef jerky that is out of this world! He smokes his own fish and meats right there in the shop and owns his own farm in Enumclaw (the "Twisted S Ranch") (Oh, he's also a champion, blue-ribbon, giant pumpkin grower)!

I also shop Fred Meyer &/ or QFC for Free-Range chickens (buy a whole chicken and cut it up yourself, you’ll not only get the skin (very healthy for you in terms of fat, collagen and other nutrients), but you will also have the ‘giblets’ available too (internal organs of healthy animals are nature’s multivitamins!!! It’s TRUE!).

You can also buy lamb or buffalo, as there are currently regulations on those particular meats, which do not allow the producers to administer antibiotics, growth hormones and other nasty chemicals.

If you absolutely MUST buy store bought meat (aka non-grass-fed beef or non-free-range poultry), be sure it is antibiotic-free & hormone-free and get the leanest cut possible, as toxins are stored in the fat of an animal.

Normally, for seafood, I would suggest ocean-caught above farmed sources, however, in the wake of the Fukushima incident, please keep your eyes and ears open to the experts and their findings regarding radioactive materials and how they affect our seafood sources.

Here is a FABULOUS resource for the Pacific Northwest (and other parts of the United States), it is called "Eat Wild"

Fresh Dairy:
Meadowwood Organics offers raw milk, raw cheese, organic produce (when in season), free-range eggs and free-range poultry (pre-order your turkey for the holidays!), & raw, local honey. Drop on by and meet their adorable Jersey cows and pet their friendly cat for a casual self-serve experience on a real, down-to-earth farm. Their eggs are good, but rather pricey.

Eggs:
For good, wholesome, free-range eggs, try to get ones that come from chickens with a rooster in their midst, as ‘fertilized’ eggs are the TOP of the list for one of the world’s most perfect and nutritious foods. If you are up by Bellevue, ”Whole Foods” carries ‘Fertilized’ eggs, as does “Marlene’s” (but the prices on these just doubled recently). Try to search Craigslist or keep your eyes open for signs along farm roads. The best price is $2.50/ dozen. You can sometimes get them in the store, on sale for $1.89/ dozen, but I find that even if the carton says ‘free-range’, the quality is not always reflective of the labeling. The POM actually has a gal in there who will sell eggs for $2.50 on Tuesdays & Fridays, 10 AM – 2 PM. (Don’t get wrapped up into buying eggs for $3 – 4 per dozen, since there are surely more affordable options out there, just keep your eyes open, ask around and you will surely find a great source). Also, Wilcox Farms is a good ‘brand’, as are the bulk eggs from ‘Arlington, WA’ that Grocery outlet sells (the ones in the large cardboard carton, with the shrink wrap over the top).
Please contact us if you know of ANY other local sources (especially in Enumclaw) that I am not already evangelizing.

Produce:

In addition to, or to supplement between, your Farmer’s Market shopping trips, organic produce can be found at Grocery Outlet (depending on their inventory. Lately I’ve been finding organic lemons and avocados there), Fred Meyer for the most affordable produce with quality. Marlene’s has produce and from what I understand, Costco is really starting to offer some organic options and the products for selection are growing day by day.

Try to purchase organic, frozen produce and vegetables, since they will be more cost effective and are usually flash frozen at their peak of perfection, saving your fresh veggie selection for the more ‘in season’ or not-easily frozen produce.

Know where you can compromise between organic and non-organic produce by visiting EWG’s website and downloading or printing their ‘dirty dozen’ list. This great resource will point you in the direction you need to go in regards to what foods MUST be organic and others that you can rest-assured that they are low in potentially hazardous chemicals, even though they are not organic. This will help you stretch your hard-earned dollar a bit further.

Baking Goods:

I only use Coconut Flour, Almond Flour or other ‘nut flours’ instead of gluten-free ‘mixes’ or ‘grain flours’, as they do not contain the starches, soy or the other inflammation factors.

Pumpkin Cake Bars with Cinnamon Icing

Almond Flour is easy to make at home, but I like to purchase it because it gets kind of wet from the oils in the nuts, whereas the ones you get from a manufacturer are more like a dry flour consistency.

Marlene’s has Almond Flour, but at the time of writing this, they switched suppliers and it is now $8+/ pound, being that they get it from an organic source. Still beats the heck out of buying it in super small amounts, like “Bob’s Redmill”, which can cost you an arm and a leg, but can be found in QFC or Fred Meyer when convenience forces you to find an immediate source. Honeyville sells a 5 lb bag of Almond Flour for less than $39, which should last you a while.

Coconut Flour is best bought in the bulk section of Marlene’s, or in bulk through Tropical Traditions. Amazon can usually get around the same price as Tropical Traditions too. Good thing about cooking with Coconut Flour, a little goes a long way (and is VERY filling).

I get my raw honey and Xylitol at ’Marlene's, Organic Grade B Maple Syrup in Amazon, at “Your Health, Inc.” or Fred Meyer and through any deals that I can find on the web (Amazon is a great resources for competitive pricing).

Marlene’s also has a bulk distribution format for Organic, extra virgin Olive Oil, Celtic Sea Salt, Organic Chocolate Chips and dried fruit.

For oils, I try to stay with Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Extra-Virgin Olive Oil, & free-range animal fats (ask your butcher or search online free-range meat resources).

Try to get to an Asian Market for your canned coconut milk and coconut cream, since the price per can will be under $1 compared to $2 - $4 per can at a QFC or other supermarket chain. (Actually, next to a Farmer’s Market, the Asian Market will be your best bet for low prices on seafood, fruit & produce!).

Nuts & Dried Fruit:

If you can’t make your own dehydrator/ beef jerky maker (I’m nearly complete with making mine now), you can buy one from any store with kitchen supplies, or online at Amazon.com.

The Bulk Section of Fred Meyer or QFC will be your best bet for raw, organic nuts and dried fruit, allowing you to select a variety of nuts to make ‘no-oatmeal/ cereal bars’, ‘no-grainola’, custom-made trail-mix and other nut-based recipes and concoctions. Otherwise, buying nuts that are pre-packaged gets you into rather high prices, nasty oils & salts used and the lack of organic choices.

Treats:

“SO Delicious” has a great ice-cream that, although it uses Agave Nectar (blech!), it is relatively healthy. You can also make your own (drop serious hints around the Holidays, your birthday and anniversary for an electric ice-cream maker!) by using coconut milk, raw cream, or any ‘nut milk’ of your choice.

Paleo Ginger Snaps

For cookies, well, try to make your own, as you will save a ton of money. Besides, I have a special recipe that I modified to make the most delicious ‘no-oatmeal raisin’ cookies you’ll ever have!

I have thousands of recipes (I add more every day) that you can access, free of charge, in my Google Documents’ public ‘Primal Recipes’ archive. One recipe you need to be sure to try, is the ultimate low-carb bread recipe that will allow you to eat delicious sandwiches again!

I’ve written this post several times over because I keep leaving things out, so I hope that I’ve covered enough to get you started and please feel free to contact me with questions or information that you have found to be useful that I am not aware of.

Here’s to healthy living!

Radiation Prevention & Treatments

2011-03-14T14:39:00.000-07:00

So, we are all well aware of the current events in Japan, including the overheated nuclear reactors and their three melting fuel rods.

I live in Seattle and if any section of the World is to be exposed to any levels of radiation, I'm sure I'm smack-dab in the middle of that path.

"Experts are now debating whether a radiation cloud could reach the West Coast". Some say "it will never reach North America.

Even if a big 'wave' or 'cloud' doesn't bombard us, there are still instances of 'acid rain' or other atmospheric instances of the radiation being carried beyond the release site.

So, as to not be an alarmist, I want to, at least, offer you some solace in the area of possible prevention and/ or treatment if such levels are detected in your area.

PREVENTION & TREATMENT

The SPIDERWORT plant is so sensitive to changes in radiation levels (its petals change color upon exposure) that it’s often used as a natural radiation detector (dosimeter).
IODINE

SEAWEED: Agar-Agar, Hijike, and Arame, KELP or MISO
Potassium Iodide or Iodate tablets only protect the thyroid gland and do not provide protection from any other radiation exposure, so taking them should not give you a false sense of security. It’s important to detox yourbody after radioactive exposure!

If no access to these tablets, an adult could get a blocking dose of stable iodine by painting 8 ml of a 2 percent tincture of iodine on the abdomen or forearm (places on the body where absorption is rapid) approximately 2 hours prior to I-131 contamination.

ALGEAS/ ALGAE: SPIRULINA and other algae type of supplements.
THYME, made into a tea.

A Spiderwort Plant Blossom

One level teaspoon (powdered) in one pint of water and steeped for twenty minutes will provide (after straining and cooling), a necessary two cups per day.

Activated CHARCOAL.
ALOE VERA neutralizes radiation (it was the only thing that helped victims of Chernobyl recover from the burns).
A RADIATION DETOX BATH is an effective and easy way to assist in clearing the body of radiation. These are especially tried, natural formula that combine special herbs and clays such as Aulterra, which when tested on Chernobyl victims, was found to remove radiation from the body within 18 hours. LL's Magnetic Clay Detox Baths have also removed radiation. Check out the Environmental Bath kit and the Radiation Detox bath.
HUM: To help reduce the accumulated radiation you may also regularly make the sound "Hum" while driving your car or in the shower, as well as "Ka-Ga-Ha.". The sounds break up the discordant frequencies.
WALNUT TINCTURE

1 – 2 Teaspoons in a bath

GREEN TEA

Antioxidants in green tea also come with a price. There are high levels of aluminum and fluorides in most green teas.

BORON, Boron has the ability to absorb radiation and release it without changing the neutron.
MINERALS

Consuming natural Iodine, such as in the seaweeds, helps prevent the uptake of iodine-131
Iron inhibits the absorption of plutonium-238 and plutonium-239.
Vitamin B-12 inhibits cobalt-60 uptake (used in nuclear medicine).
Zinc inhibits zinc-65 uptake
Sulfur is preventative for sulfur-35 (a product of nuclear reactors) incorporation by the body.

MSM supplements provide a source of dietary sulfur, but Thiol supplements such as cysteine, lipoic acid and glutathione serve double-duty in this area because they help detoxify the body and attack all sorts of other health problems as well.

GINSENG:

Siberian Ginseng is one form of ginseng that exerts a definite radio protective effect and has been demonstrated to lessen the side effects of radiation.
Panax Ginseng has prevented hemorrhaging after radiation exposure, prevents bone marrow death and stimulates blood cell formation, so it’s another supplement to add to one’s protocol.

REISHI MUSHROOMS: Consuming Reishi mushrooms is another proven way to bolster your immune system after radiation exposure and helps reduce the damage from radiation.

L-Glutamine can be used to help repair the intestine in case of the gastrointestinal syndrome usually suffered due to radiation exposure.
Particular foods that include L-Glutamine include beet juice, liver extract, spleen extract, and shark alkyglycerols. Most oncologists don’t know that shark liver oil, with alkyglycerols, can help platelet counts rebound in days.

In the case of Depleted Uranium ingestion

Sodium Bicarbonate to help alkalinize the urine. This makes the uranyl ion less kidney-toxic and promotes excretion of the nontoxic uranium carbonate complex.
In areas contaminated by depleted uranium dusts, it therefore makes sense to switch to drinking slightly alkaline water and to favor a non-acidic diet to assist in this detoxification.

Homeopathic: URANIUM NITRICUM (nitrate of uranium).

So, once again, I am not trying to alarm or scare those of us on the Pacific Coast, I just want to deliver the best of my research regarding radiation poisoning, in regards to its possible prevention and treatment options.

What have we done? Save yourselves!!!!!

2010-07-20T10:29:00.000-07:00

So, supposedly, the white man brought disease and liquid 'Spirits' to an 'untouched' indigenous people, but, I ask, "What have we done to ourselves??"...

Makes Ronald McDonald look like an old-timey drug-pusher huh?

"Here kid, have some balloons. Come to my wigwam for some yummy food and play in the new 'play place'. I'll introduce you to engineered foods you never knew existed, like Chicken Nuggets with a bio-chemical, anti-foaming agent! Yum? Right?! Top that off with a diabetic coma from finishing an 'extra large' chocolate shake and a sweet, sweet cherry pie!"

Run little wampums, RUN!!!!!!!

Guilt-Free Italian Cream Soda

2010-07-16T14:47:00.000-07:00

When the sun is out in full-force and you want an icy drink, but you know that you just can't swing on in to one of those espresso stands, look into that adorable, tanned, 20-something barista's eyes and request a sugar-laden (or artificial-sweetener-filled) treat, then I have just the thing!

The Guilt-Free Italian Cream Soda

1 cup Sparkling Mineral Water (with lime or lemon essence works well here too)
1/2 cup Coconut Milk (check the ingredients for a 'carageenan-free' brand) - Large, isolated Asian Markets have THE BEST prices on cans of this!
4 Frozen Strawberries (or equivalent amount of other type of berries or fruit)
1 tsp Stevia *optional (add more or less, or some other 'sweetener')

Place the coconut milk, berries and sweetener in a blender and blend.
Fill a glass full of ice-cubes and pour the coconut milk/ berry blend over the ice and top with the mineral water.
Stir and sip while out on your sun-drenched patio (or wherever you see fit)!

Let me know what you think and what your favorite flavor or variation is on this deliciously cool treat!

Metal Toxicity - Hidden Danger

2010-07-02T09:14:00.000-07:00

I had my blood drawn recently to take a look at my overall health. What we found among the wreckage was not a complete surprise, but surely my blood held definite answers to what I already expected: I had a heavy metal toxicity. I have high levels of Mercury and Arsenic in my body. Oh joy.

As you read this you may be thinking, "Gee, that sucks for you, glad I'm OK". Well, you could be dead wrong. In fact, I would venture to say that a good majority of the general population has this very same issue, if not worse in some instances and instead of being treated properly, they are told that they are hypochondriacs or are given metal-laced, disease-inducing drugs that only put a band-aid on the symptoms.

In an effort to keep my rant short on the subject, I went forward with what I like to do best and present facts and the research behind them. I found several science studies and they, being scattered and dry, were not for optimal reading, therefore, you will find a lot of these links are to highly regarded sources which have their own back-up research resources as well as great information regarding each topic.

Common Symptoms of Heavy Metal toxicity:

Headaches
Sensitivity to Nickel-containing jewelry
Hearing Loss
Impared Concentration
Personality Changes
Loss of feeling (especially in fingertips)
High blood pressure
Fatigue
Muscle pain
Joint pain
Digestive problems
Constipation
Brain fog
Hormone imbalance
Depression
Mesothelioma & Lung Cancer
Autism (2005 Autism Research Institute Study)
Diabetes
Heart Disease
Kidney Disease
Auto-Immune Diseases

Contaminants:

Radiation Exposure
Cookware (pots and pans)
Tap Water (Lead)
Metal Dental Amalgams (Mercury)
Dental Implants
Popular Protein Powders:
Johnson & Johnson - "Tylenol" brand childrens' products
Common plastics
Chinese Manufactured Children's Jewelry
Some Balsamic Vinegars
Thimerosal (Mercury) in children's vaccines
GMO Crops

Hydrogenated Oils

Large Ocean-dwelling Fish and Sea Mammals
Household products, including:

Paint
Crystal
Pewter
Glazed pottery
Garden herbicides and pesticides

Treatments:

Detoxification
Chelation Therapy
Hyperbaric Pressure Chamber
Selenium
Chlorophyll
Brown Seaweed
Iodine
Clay
The "Top Ten Natural Ways to Remove Heavy Metals":

Currently, I am utilizing Chlorophyll, given to me by my doctor, as well as other 'detoxing' methods with the use of Bentonite Clay. I have a long path ahead of me, but I know it's absolutely necessary for optimal health. My personal belief, after long bouts of research, is that general toxicity, including metal toxicity and poor gut health, due to negative environmental and dietary factors, can be traced to numerous painful and deadly diseases. Can some of these be genetic? I believe that genetics play a role to advanced susceptibility, yes. Can these genes by re-trained or by-passed? Well, my friends, the human body is a wondrous thing and I think the answer may shock and/ or surprise you.

I suggest that you discuss all concerns with your doctor, take a blood test, take advanced measures to eliminate harmful environmental and dietary factors from your daily routine for prevention and take the necessary steps toward a full metal and toxin detox. If you are serious about becoming or staying well, it is not an easy road, but one that will be most rewarding in the end.

Truly Healthy SPF Protection

2010-07-01T12:02:00.000-07:00

I'm so sick of the tired old cliche that is being preached by doctors and dermatologists: "Stay out of the sun", "Use a high-rated SPF for protection from skin cancer". Now, there's a 10% tanning salon tax since these 'officials' and the government have deemed tanning to be 'unhealthy'.

Did you know that the benefits of the sun outweigh the negative affects of sun-worshipping? It's true! Actually, too little sun can CAUSE skin cancer, breast cancer, severe asthma attacks (in asthmatics), severe depression, chronic fatigue, preeclampsia, preterm berth, gestational diabetes, accelerated aging and other nasty ill-effects. I kid you not. In fact, Vitamin deficiency is quite common in the US.

Anyway, I have come across thousands of news and blog posts on the MANY reasons that Vitamin D is necessary, so I don't want to beat a dead horse here. By the way, I take 10K IU's a day and I was STILL just under the recommended amount in my recent blood draw, so the USRDA recommendation of 400IU's/ day is ABSURD! Did you know that your body uses anywhere from 2,500 - 5,000 IU's per DAY?! Even scientists from the Departments of Nutritional Sciences, and Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, came to the conclusion that "Even prolonged physiologic-replacement intake of 10,000 IU per day of vitamin D3 would pose no known risk of adverse effects in virtually all adults".

So, having said that, you want to get your Vitamin D from a healthy dose of sun-exposure, but you most certaintly don't want to burn, right? (RIGHT!). So, what's a 'healthy' fool like us to do, eh? (Either that made me sound like a Canadian or an old-timer....not sure which....).

Personally, I like to soak up the first 20 minutes of sun (when I'm bone-white) and then cover up with either sun block or clothing (or a combination of both) when I know I'll be outside ALL day, like playing sports, or out on the boat, etc. Also, you don't want your wee-children to get a sunburn, as that is not only harmful and painful, but you could be charged with child abuse if it's bad enough!

Here's a suggested solution that has worked for me:

Build up your tolerance of the sun. Start with small exposures (depending on how 'lilly-white' you are) and work your way up. Now, those of you of the 'red-haired persuasion' may be laughing at me here, but some of you can build up your tolerance (some, maybe not so much and I understand).
After the small exposures you will need to protect yourself for the rest of the time, with additional clothing and/ or sunscreen. I do NOT suggest, however, using the normal 'drug-store' formulas, as they contain a whole host of toxins, ready to shut down your liver and kidneys due to toxic overload!

So, now that regular sunscreens are not advisable, WHAT ARE WE TO DO?!
Well, I recently came across a new formula that is not only waterproof, but it's non-toxic and safe for daily use by both you and your children. It's called "Gardener's Armor" and it's the best alternative to those other toxic sunscreens that masquerade as 'healthy protection from the sun'.

The additional bonus to wearing "Gardener's Armor", is that it also protects from insect bites and poison ivy! (Can YOUR drugstore brand do all of that AND be toxin-free?).

Personally, I refuse to promote ANYTHING that I wouldn't or haven't used myself, so I do recommend that you give this one a try and let me know what you think.

With so many toxins assaulting our bodies, this will be one less stressor on you, allowing you to still absorb some sun and then protect from sunburn and other nasty irritations, while keeping your health intact!

Gardener's Armor: Protect Your Hands from Sun, Poison Ivy and Bugs.

Try building up your tolerance levels while using this safe formula and then see if you can go without it indefinitely! Personally, I am in the Pacific Northwest, so when (WHEN) the sun is out, the rays are not particularly strong, however, I have built up my tolerance enough to be able to be out most of the day without ANY protection and still not burn! I'm of Norwegian heritage (I'm really a blond, actually!), so this is quite a feat for me!

Raspberries & Fresh, Fruity, Fizzy Coolers!

2010-06-24T17:20:00.000-07:00

The Raspberry

A perennial plant, with edible fruit from a multitude of plant species in the genus Rubus. But you knew THAT right? Or, more to the point, who cares?! Let's look at some interesting facts about their use, their nutritional value and what kind of a role these delicious early-summer berries can do for your body, shall we?

Growing it yourself:

Deemed a very hearty plant, this rascal can quickly take over if not wrangled correctly or properly contained. Even bird droppings spread the seeds into areas where you may not want your raspberry bushes to be! Also, raspberry plants should not be planted where potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, eggplants or bulbs have previously been grown, without prior fumigation of the soil, as such crops are hosts for the disease Verticillium Wilt, a fungus that can stay in the soil for many years and can infest a raspberry crop.

Raspberries contain significant amounts of polyphenol antioxidants such as anthocyanin pigments linked to potential health protection against several diseases. Raspberries rank near the top of all fruits for antioxidant strength.

Because of the fruit's structure, the proportion of dietary fiber places it among plant foods with the highest fiber contents known, up to 20% fiber per total weight!

Raspberries are a rich source of vitamin C, with 30 mg per serving of 1 cup, and the content of manganese, B vitamins 1-3, folic acid, magnesium, copper and iron are considerable.

The kind of issues that the raspberry may help with include, and are not limited to, the following:

    * inflammation
    * pain
    * cancer
    * cardiovascular disease
    * diabetes
    * allergies
    * age-related cognitive decline
    * degeneration of eyesight with aging

According to Wikipedia, "The raspberry contains a crystallizable fruit-sugar, a fragrant volatile oil, pectin, citric and malic acids, mineral salts, colouring matter and water. The ripe fruit is fragrant, subacid and cooling: it allays heat and thirst, and is not liable to acetous fermentation in the stomach". (Hmmm, cold, summertime drink? I have JUST the thing!):

Sparkling Fresh Raspberry Cooler

1 serving

1/2 cup fresh organic Raspberries
1/2 cup Sparkling Water with Lemon (or use sparkling water plus 1 tsp freshly squeezed organic lemon juice)
1 packet (1 tsp) Stevia
1/2 cup crushed ice
(Optional for caffeine) 1/4 cup "Guru" Lite energy drink (fizzy drink that contains all natural ingredients. The "Lite" version doesn't have a bunch of sugar in it, using Stevia, primarily) - Add more crushed ice (if adding the "Guru")
BLEND away and enjoy with a sprig of mint and a slice of lemon for a garnish!

Ever want to make your own Raspberry Wine? Try your hand at wine making for this delightful tart n' tasty treat!

What about a delectable Raspberry Vinegar? Any foodie or culinary adventurer could sure find a place for this in their kitchen!

Maybe you're not a wine person, or you don't want to wait a year for your 'spoils' to come to fruition, so how about a homemade Raspberry Brandy?

Raspberry Leaves

The raspberry leaves can be used fresh or dried in herbal and medicinal teas. They have an astringent flavor, and in herbal medicine are reputed to be effective in regulating menses. An infusion of Raspberry leaves, taken cold, is deemed a reliable laxative. For the use as an astringent and stimulant (warning, do NOT use or ingest Raspberry Leaf Tea while pregnant or nursing!):

Raspberry Leaf Tea

Infusion of 1 OZ. of the dried leaves in a pint of boiling water.

For use as a gargle for sore mouths/ throats, canker sores, and as a wash for wounds and ulcers.
The leaves, combined with the powdered bark of Slippery Elm, make a good poultice for cleansing wounds, burns and promoting healing.

Those who know me well, know that I HATE ANYTHING with raspberry filling or flavor. Maybe it's that I hate the 'fake flavor', because fresh raspberries are one of my weaknesses, but a cake with raspberry filling? Ewwww! I'll use fresh and/ or frozen raspberries in everything I can, but stick a 'processed' food in my face, with raspberry 'flavor' and I want to shake you silly! Eck!

So go enjoy this gorgeous early-summer berry, guilt-free (in organic form), as it clearly provides you with super-amounts of antioxidants, fiber, vitamin C and numerous other inflammatory-fighting components (hey asthma, arthritis & tendinitis sufferers, just another reason to get a daily serving of fruits in your diet!).

Decadent, Dairy-free, Low-carb, Homemade Hot Chocolate

2010-06-22T14:10:00.000-07:00

It may be summer, but that doesn't mean that we won't have dreary, rainy days here in Seattle. On such occasions, I like to treat my boys to some hot chocolate and cookies (click here to try my gluten-free, Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe).

Not only does this recipe serve a 'sugar-free' version of this delectable ancient Mayan drink, but in my humble opinion, it simply tastes better, like a gourmet restaurant made it on site, just for you, their high-profile, VIP patron.

Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate

Serves 1

Ingredients:

2 squares (.7 ounces) 85% cacao organic dark chocolate
2 teaspoons good tasting, organic cocoa powder
4 ounces of organic coconut milk
1 tbsp of pure, organic vanilla extract
1 pinch of organic cinnamon
1 pinch of chili powder
1 tablespoon Erythritol or Xylitol
1/2 - 1 tablespoon Stevia Extract
1 fresh organic/ free-range egg (optional)
2-3 ounces piping hot water

Preparation:
1. Pour Coconut Milk into a sauce pan on the stove.
2. Heat in pan at medium - medium/ high heat.
3. Break up chocolate squares by chopping into chunks.
4. Add cocoa powder and chocolate chunks to the heated coconut milk.
5. Continue to heat, while stirring, until chocolate has melted completely.
6. Whisk egg lightly in a separate bowl.
7. Transfer liquid chocolate mixture to a blender.
8. Add flavor extracts and sweeteners to contents in blender, and blend the mixture at low speed.
9. With the blender running, add beaten egg and then piping hot water.
10. Taste, and add more sweeteners or extract if necessary.

Serve immediately, do not reheat.

~ 7-8 grams net carbs per mug

Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

2010-06-22T13:25:00.000-07:00

Ever feel like 'dieting' or eating healthier is akin to modern-day torture? We always think that healthy eating is associated with bland flavor. Well, eating the way I do, shifts the paradigm into a beautiful new direction! FAT. Fat is used in all fast food restaurants, why? TASTE. They feed cows corn at the end of their lifespan for one reason: it makes them fatter, incorporating a marbleizing of fat per slab of cow muscle/ meat AND it makes the meat more flavorful (but feeding cows corn is damaging to the animal, causing disease and poor-quality meat, in that it depletes the CLA content that your body desperately requires).

I now use organic and/ or raw butter, organic coconut oil, grass-fed beef tallow, lamb lard and other 'healthy' fats in my cooking, guilt-free. In fact, I don't gain a single pound, even though I'm battling some personal health issues, including my hormones, which ultimately affect my metabolism.

Can we also talk about salt? I mean REAL salt. The kind of stuff that's sticky & full of color (mega-amounts of healing clay, minerals and other near-to-your-blood's-components nutrients). I use Celtic Sea Salt and so do most chefs. Why? Again: FLAVOR.

So, what do I hear most when explaining my 'new' "diet" (ie, stop eating processed 'crap')? "Oh, dear! You are so limited! That must suck!". Really? Because I can't have an Oreo, a bagel or pasta, I'm limited? Honestly, I never was a bagel or pasta fan. I did like, however, a nice slab of toast with some butter, but that's no big thing, as I still have loads of fabulous food to eat in it's stead.

That being said, I still have a tad of a sweet-tooth. Now that I've gone a full year without stuffing my face with processed and highly-sugared food, though, I'm not a slave to the cravings.

So, now that I'm a 'good girl', I deserve some kind of reward, right? Don't get me wrong, some berries with some heavy cream and Stevia will ALWAYS be 'da bomb', but sometimes, we still like to resort back to our original 'sinful' days of yore and find a suitable alternative to that one food we all lovingly remember from our childhood, with that far-off, dreamy look in our eyes and drool forming at the corner of our mouths.

I was never a great cook (although I am forced to be a good cook now), as baking always suited my fancy. Is it because of the method of measuring and mixing? Or the sweet-tasting result? I'm not sure, maybe a combination of both. Whatever the reason, I am very proud to present to you my favorite 'Paleo/ Primal' version of this delicious classic: The Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie. I posted a pic and description on my Facebook and someone posted "That sounds gross! Ha ha!". Well, she couldn't be further from the truth, as my ten year old said, "Mom, this passes as a bonifide, real cookie!".

Gluten-Free, Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
(note that this recipe was taken and modified from "Elana's Pantry" blog)

2 ½ cups blanched almond flour* (using Bob's Redmill? Add 1/8 cup of vanilla protein powder)
1 tablespoon - 1/8 cup of Stevia Baking Blend* (powder)
¼ teaspoon celtic sea salt*
¼ teaspoon baking soda*
10 tablespoons organic, cultured butter*, melted (I sucessfully used 1/2 cup coconut oil*, melted)
1 tablespoon pure, organic, vanilla extract*
1/4 cup black strap molasses*
1/4 cup grade B org. maple syrup*
1 cup dark chocolate chips 73% cacaos*

* NOTE: All links for the above ingredients are for the highest quality products that I have personally used and are highly recommended for optimal nutrition AND flavor.

1. Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl
2. Stir together wet ingredients in a smaller bowl
3. Mix wet ingredients into dry
4. Form 1¨ balls and press onto a parchment lined baking sheet (use parchment paper on the top of the 'ball' and press down firmly using a glass tumbler). You may want to add the chocolate chips to the very top, AFTER pressing the cookies flat.
5. Bake at 350° for 7-10 minutes
6. Cool and serve

They may look like a greasy mess at first, but adding the chocolate pieces to the top, after the cookie has been squished flat, will minimize your frustration and the final baked result will astound you.

Enjoy with some homemade cold, raw milk, some homemade hot-chocolate (click here for my "Decadent, Dairy-free, Low-carb, Homemade Hot Chocolate recipe) or with some warm, homemade eggnog for the holidays.

Dang, now I've gone and made myself hungry! Off with you. Print out the recipe and start baking, while I plot the demise of my next meal.

All natural health and healing for your pets

2010-06-03T10:38:00.000-07:00

Do you truly love your pets?

Most pet lovers love their pets enough to make sure that they are safe and in exquisite health, even spending thousands of dollars on them in the form of vet office visits, immunizations and surgeries.

Personally, I'd love to say that I'm one of those pet owners. Not that I don't do everything that I can for them, but I'm not always in a financial position to pay for every little vet visit. There have been times where we've been quite down on our luck and couldn't even afford to put a pet down. It's heart-breaking.

I do buy "IAMS" cat food, which makes their coats VERY shiny. I've heard there are other (better) formulas out there, but as far as availability and good results, I've never had a problem with "IAMS", not to mention that it's easily obtained at a local supermarket instead of buying it from a vet or special order off of the Internet.

If you do not use "IAMS" and/ or are not sure about the amount of oil/ fats your pets are receiving, make sure to supplement their food with Salmon Oil.

If your pet sheds, they are most likely not getting enough fats in their diet. Just go to your local pet store and they should have a big bottle with a large dispenser pump so that you can pump it on top of their food daily (they LOVE the taste!). Optimal pet food would be homemade formulas, such as mostly raw meat and organ scraps with vegetables and animal fat (more protein for cats). You can find some great resources on these 'recipes' all over the net (read: The Truth About Pet Food). Again, this depends on your level of dedication based on time and financial restraints.

Why am I posting about pets? Well, I had a scare this last week. Let's just say that one kitten is now with the great maker in the sky and the mother cat was near to joining her. The mother kitty was becoming severely ill and had a hard time moving around. She drug herself away from her babies and I thought she was looking for a place to die in peace. I wasn't sure what her issue was, as I suspected that she had worms, so I decided to give her what I had access to in my 'shelf of miracles' (aka, my all-natural remedies cabinet).

I grabbed my bottle of 'Food Grade Hydrogen Peroxide' and hastily researched the net for the correct dilution for oral consumptions in pets. Please note that the enzyme, Lactase, is very different between humans and most other animals, therefore requiring a very different dilution percentage, so as to not make the animal sick (veterinarians actually suggest giving large dilutions of H2O2 to pets who need to vomit in certain cases of toxin/ poison ingestion).

To make a long story short, after giving the mother cat a dropper-full of this newly concocted dilution of H2O2 to distilled water, she started to improve rather rapidly! I tried to give her one dropper every hour and within 2 days, she was back to eating, drinking & feeding her babies!

Upon closer inspection, I noticed that the original sickness was from a blocked mammary gland, causing mastitis, which became very septic, poisoning her poor little body. I had mastitis with my second-born and let me tell ya, it's horrible! You ache all over, your body is burning up with a high fever and you just want to die!

I found the blackened and hugely swollen nipple on the mother cat and applied a saturation of water and H2O2 to that nipple for as long as the mother cat would let me (which was surprisingly a long time!) and within the next 2 days, her body had just opened up and released the infection. It was gnarly, let me tell you! I freaked at first, thinking she needed stitches, but she wasn't limping around and the site was not infected, so I decided to let the body heal on it's own. It worked. She's gained her weight back and the massive 'hole' in her stomach is nearly healed.

Combined with prayers and some H2O2, I've found my own method for healing a severely ill animal, for pennies on the dollar.

I'll give you the dilution that I used and feel free to make up a batch and supplement your pet's drinking water with it. Not only will it sanitize their water so that it is free of disease-causing microbes, but it will also supplement your pet's body with disease-killing properties that may prevent and even eliminate many problems like heart-worm, intestinal worms and other nasty microbes that are normally treated by a vet with dangerous drugs.

Here's the solution that saved my sweet little momma-kitty's life:

1 1/2 Tsp - 12% Food Grade H2O2
1 Liter - Distilled Water (found in most grocery stores)

I added this to the main water supply as well as into a bottle with a dropper so that I could administer it to her once every hour while she was initially in grave deterioration.

After the animal improves, continue to supplement their main water source indefinitely.

Remember, with H2O2, less is more and using more than this suggested dilution can even be harmful.

Food Inc. To be Aired on PBS tonight!

2010-04-21T17:19:00.001-07:00

The infamous movie will be aired on PBS tonight. Check your local listings and prepare to be amazed!

Primalized 'Eastern' Shrimp 'Tacos'

2010-03-31T16:55:00.001-07:00

Primalized 'Eastern' Shrimp 'Tacos'

2 lbs mini shrimp (I used frozen, pre-cooked)
1/2 cup shredded carrots (also, feel free to add other veggies too)
1/8 cup Coconut Cream
1/4 cup Greek Yogurt and 1/4 cup Kefir or raw milk (can just use 1/2 cup of yogurt here)
1/2 tsp Sea Salt
1/8 tsp Curry
1/2 tsp Black Pepper
1 tsp Tabasco Sauce
1 tsp Onion Powder
2 tsp Lemon Pepper
1 tsp Chopped Garlic
(optional: 1 tsp + of Red Chilli Pepper Flakes)
1 tbsp of fat (I used chicken fat with other flavorings infused from a previous cooking session)
Large Lettuce Leaves (Romaine or other)

Put all ingredients (with exception to the shrimp and lettuce leaves) into a saucepan on medium - medium/ high heat.
Mix all until coconut cream is no longer 'chunky'.
Add Shrimp and cook until done (if not pre-cooked).
Serve up shrimp in the middle of the table, in a bowl with a large spoon alongside large, separated lettuce leaves in another large bowel.
Let the family have a go at piling on the yummy, juicy shrimp concoction onto a large lettuce leaf.
Eat like a soft taco, until thoroughly stuffed (warning, the sensation of being 'stuffed' is hard to tell with this recipe, as you will want more and more for your tastebuds' sake alone!)

Hydrogen Peroxide Therapy

2010-03-29T11:27:00.003-07:00

Based on my initial research (compiled from others' research compiled from various scientific sources) let's look at some basic scientific statistics that both Doctors and scientists have found out about, Hydrogen Peroxide and its affect within the human body.

(Click here for the free eBook on "The Truth About Food Grade Hydrogen Peroxide"

& Click here for what a Doctor has to say)

Hydrogen Peroxide and its affect within the human body:

A naturally produced, purposeful molecule in the body.

Functions to aid membrane transport

"An essential metabolite, meaning that it is necessary to life's process"

Involved in protein, carbohydrate and fat metabolism

Acts like insulin in that it aids the transport of sugar through the body

Regulates thermogenesis (heat production via the thyroid, as it creates "Intraceullar Thermogenesis", ie, a warming of your cells)

Acts as a hormonal messenger

Stimulates and regulates immune functions

Regulates energy production

Vitamin C promotes Hydrogen Peroxide to oxidize foreign invaders in the body, by producing 'Hydroxyl Radicals", which kills (this process is called 'phagocytosis') such invaders as parasites, viruses, bacteria, yeast/ fungi, etc.

Possible uses for:

Growing better food

Purifying water without chlorine complications

Increasing thyroid activity

Hyper-oxygenation could help the body purge heavy metals, chemicals, and toxins

Enhancing the body's ability to utilize vitamins, minerals, and amino acids from the food we eat

Physicians have independently discovered such treatments to be effective against:

Some types of cancer*

Emphysema

Depression

Leukemia

Arthritis

Coronary heart disease

Arterial circulation disorders

Colitis

Gum diseases

Assorted childrens' diseases

Temporal Arteritis

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,

The Yeast Syndrome (candida),

Various Viral Infections & Auto-Immune related diseases

Shingles

Multiple Sclerosis

Lupus Erythematosis

AIDS

Dental gum diseases

Colds (35% H2O2 in cold humidifier)

* According to the American Cancer Society:

"there is no scientific evidence that Hydrogen Peroxide is a safe, effective or useful cancer treatment".
More Information on the uses of Hydrogen Peroxide are available from

Educational Concern for Hydrogen Peroxide (ECHO),

PO Box 126, Delano, MN 55328 @ (813) 597-4111 or (606) 635-9297.

Now, before I proceed with any suggestions regarding how to utilize Hydrogen Peroxide, whether it be topical or internal, I need to inform you as to some basics.

There are two methods of administering hydrogen peroxide: Orally or Intravenously.

Intravenously. This method, of course, should only be through an approved medical practitioner, specializing in this treatment process (see end notes below).

Orally. From what I gather, this has been used successfully throughout the past 70 years (if not more), without ill effect, as long as the suggested amount of dilution is properly adhered to. Too much ingested at the start of an 'Oral Hydrogen Peroxide Therapy' treatment has been known to cause nausea.

There are two 'common' forms of the H202 solution for the treatments and uses stated in this post, which may be easily found for purchase in the US.

3%. This is your common dilution, found at most drug-stores. This solution, however, has been known to contain potentially harmful additives that would be ill-advised for oral consumption. Use this for external/ topical methodologies and household uses.

35% 'Food Grade'. This dilution does not contain the harmful 'stabilizers/ additives' like most 3% solutions contain. Following proper dilution instructions can assist you in preparing a 'Food Grade' dilution of 3%.

Suggested Uses (using 3% H2O2 solution):

In the House

Laundry: Add 8 ozs. to your wash in place of bleaches.

House and garden plants: Put 1 oz. in 1 quart of water. Water or mist plants with this solution.

Sprouting seeds: Add 1 oz. to a pint of water and soak the seeds overnight. Add the same amount of hydrogen peroxide each time you rinse the seeds.

Pets: For small animals (dogs & cats) use 1 oz. to 1 qt. of water.

Nasal Spray: Mix 1 Tablespoon of 3.5% hydrogen peroxide with 8 oz. (1 Cup) of distilled water. Use 2-3 squirts of nasal spray when you start experiencing congestion.

In the Kitchen

Vegetable soak: Add 1/4 cup to a full sink of cold water. Soak light-skinned (like lettuce) 20 minutes, thicker skinned (like cucumbers) 30 minutes. Drain, dry and refrigerate. Prolongs freshness. If time is a problem, spray vegetables (and fruits) with a solution of 3%. Let stand for a few minutes, rinse and dry.

To freshen kitchen: Keep a spray bottle in the kitchen. Use it to wipe off counter tops and appliances. It will disinfect and give the kitchen a fresh smell. Works great in the refrigerator and kid's school lunch boxes.

In the Bathroom

Facial: Use on a cotton ball as a facial freshener after washing. (Remember: do not use 35% grade!)

Rejuvenating detoxifying bath: Add 6 ozs. to 1/2 tub of water. May increase hydrogen peroxide up to 2 cups per bath. Soak at least 1/2 hour.

Or, add 1/2 cup 35% H2O2 , 1/2 cup sea salt, and 1/2 cup baking soda or epsom salts to bath water and soak.

Foot soak: Add 1-1/2 ozs. 35% H2O2 to 1 gallon water and soak.

Athlete's foot: Soak feet nightly until condition is improved.

For the Mouth

Mouthwash After brushing teeth and tongue, swish H2O2 in mouth for a couple of minutes and then gargle with it, then spit out and rinse. If pain occurs, spit out and try on the following days, etc. Do not attempt with sores in mouth. May also reverse tooth sensitivity. Convert 35% food grade H2O2 to get 3% hydrogen peroxide by adding 1 tablespoon of 35% H2O2 to 11 tablespoons of distilled non-chlorinated water (1:11 ratio).

Toothpaste: Use baking soda and add enough 3% H202 to make a paste. Or just dip your brush in it and brush.

Shower: Keep a spray bottle of hydrogen peroxide in the shower. Spray your body after washing to replace the acid mantle of your skin that soap removes.

For Oral H2O2 treatment, visit "Drink H2O2.com" and the "Drinking Hydrogen Peroxide" section for further information and details, as well as a this compilation from "ECHO" and their usage, warnings and general guidelines.

** Hydrogen peroxide is being used intravenously and intra-arterially by doctors in the United States and foreign countries. The International Bio-Oxidative Medicine Foundation supports clinical research in Hydrogen Peroxide Therapy. To find a doctor near you call (405) 478-4266 or write to The International Bio-Oxidative Medicine Foundation, P.O. Box 13205, Oklahoma City, OK 73113.

Of course, "Snopes" has called all of this as 'dangerous' and 'bogus' (to paraphrase), so believe whatever you choose to believe. Personally, I've found a lot of so-called 'dangerous' or 'bogus' all-natural therapies to be completely real and safe, when sites like 'Snopes' only like to 'poo-poo' such 'weird' or 'different' therapies. Of course, the mention of someone dying once, whatever be the full cause, will make everyone point their fingers. Hey, not only 10 years ago, my Idaho Gynecologist refused to perform a water-birth for the delivery of my son, claiming "One dead baby is enough for me to say no!".

***FDA Required Disclaimer: No claims are made regarding the therapeutic use of any therapies.***

These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. This web site is for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a qualified licensed professional. This site provides medical information and alternative medical options. In no way, should anyone consider the information on this website, representing the"practice of medicine". This site assumes no responsibility for how this material is used. This website frequently updates its contents, due to a variety of reasons. The statements regarding alternative treatments for cancer have not been evaluated by the FDA.

The Pioneer Woman

2010-03-26T15:33:00.000-07:00

I like to promote and 'lift up' others out there who like to keep themselves grounded with whole, delicious food, sustainable farming and just living the simple, healthy, good life.

"The Pioneer Woman" is, to me, one of those people.

Nutritionally, I wouldn't consume those homemade donuts or the other 'bready' goods that she makes from scratch, as they will make ME scratch...my eczema...so, not gonna happen for me, BUT, I want to live a pure, down-home, simple life.

I think my husband thinks I'm nuts and going through a phase (let's face it, I'm a woman, my mind changes daily!), but there's something to be said for growing your own food, no commuting with idiot drivers, petting and feeding tomorrow's beautiful steak and just taking more time to appreciate your children, your family and all that life has to offer.

So (sigh) until the Amish come to adopt me, I'll live vicariously through "The Pioneer Woman". Tipping my floppy, folded, red, cowboy hat to her (purchased in a Knotts Berry Farms' amusement park 'hat store' by my beloved 10 year old for this last years' Christmas Present!) and hoping that one day, my life will be so 'pure'.

Look here, is that a tumor? Is it from my cell phone, my laptop, the gas-emissions of my commute? What IS that?!! ;-)

Be inspired!

"Whole Foods" (Whole Paycheck) - The Devil in your pocket

2010-03-26T14:45:00.000-07:00

Well, as much as I enjoy seeing more 'all natural' food stores spring up (thank you "Trader Joe's", "Marlene's" and any 'whole-food Co-ops' I am unaware of), I have personally, however, not been a frequent shopper at "Whole Foods", although I've always thought of them as a big contributor. Why? Well, their nickname, "Whole Paycheck", may give you a clue. Also, I don't really have one close by me.

They have been popping up in the news and various blogs lately (Whole Foods and UNFI: Undermining Our Organic Future) and the reason has not been to give them a big ol' congratulatory pat on the back. In fact, not only do people believe that they've 'sold out', but their mastermind, Keith Lackey, has gone on a 'food religion' spree, killing any and all notions that meat and fat is healthy for you. Go Vegetarian or Vegan! You will no longer be a heathen! (Uck! Did I just give the vegans a new slogan?!)

My fellow 'Primal Blogger', Richard Nikoley, has adequately expressed his outrage with this new, 'healthy' campaign., which was based in response of the famous 'Low-Carb' community blogger/ celebrity, "Jimmy Moore" and his original article regarding this retailer's decision "..to actively market and promote a low-fat, vegetarian diet in their 289 stores."

I guess they are calling it the "Health Starts Here" Campaign, which focuses primarily on plant-based foods, which I don't have a problem with eating plants, but they hit a new low when they started touting that a healthy diet not only be void of meat, but low-fat as well!

Oh, and since I'm a naughty little saturated-fat and meat-eater, I won't partake in the fact that "[Whole Foods - Health Starts Here"] program participants would receive an additional 10% discount (on top of their 'Whole Foods Club' member discount of 20%).

To quote Jimmy Moore, "Now when you walk into a Whole Foods store, you are bombarded with pamphlets urging you to begin a low-fat, plant-based diet and cut back or remove animal foods from your menus altogether. Worse than that, there are no alternative books by respected low-carb authors like Dr. Robert Atkins, Drs. Mike and Mary Dan Eades, Dr. Barry Sears, or anyone else who is not on board with the vegetarian dogma."

They have signs all over the store, telling you how the product fits into the rating system for their idea of a 'healthy' food. To quote a hero of mine, Sally Fallon Morell from the Weston A. Price Foundation: "Many of the phytochemicals that Fuhrman includes in the index he developed for Whole Foods play no essential role in the body and may even be harmful, Fallon noted. Animal foods like meat, liver, butter, whole milk and eggs contain ten to one hundred times more vitamins and minerals than plant foods. Plant foods add variety and interest to the human diet but in most circumstances do not qualify as ‘nutrient-dense’ foods."

Also, my favorite high-fat-touting author and comedian Tom Naughton ("Fat Head" videographer): "I think John Mackey is preaching to the choir. I think the proper response for low-carbers is to buy from local farmers if you can. If you can’t, then shop at Whole Foods but be sure to stop by the meat counter, loudly order a porterhouse, then begin chewing it raw as you push your cart around the rest of the store. This won’t change the policy, but the other shoppers may be shocked into horrified expressions that will injure their brittle vegetarian jaws."

Don't know of any local farmers? Try "US Wellness Meats" for fresh and/ or frozen grass-fed beef and other all-natural, hormone and antibiotic free, pastured meat.

I know, I know, I just sound like a 'low-carber'. I never intended to be 'low-carb', honest, but now that I've done the research and have become a 'health test dummy' with my own body, I am now able to fight off the eczema outbreaks, the tendinitis flare-ups, the irregular bowel issues, the bouts of depression, the ups and downs in my moods (my husband is joyful of this, I am SURE!), etc, etc, etc!

Personally, my appetite is in check and I'm able to lose weight and keep it off with mostly protein, animal fat & vegetables. Poof!

Now, do what you must. Go your own route, but honestly, my 'beef' with "Whole Foods" is acting like they are going to save the world by punishing me for my 'unhealthy' food choices, when their special 'club members' will get up to 30% off!

How very 'Government Health Care Plan' of them to decide what is healthy for me and what is not! 10% tax on indoor tanning? Will I have a policeman run up to me with a hefty fine if I am seen eating REAL butter?

Stop trying to regulate people and allow them to be educated on their own. That's the goal of this blog and you won't see me standing on your doorstep, with a big, black garbage bag, 'urging' you to modify your naughty little pantry!

Food is like a religion to people, stop trying to force your religion on them and treating them like they are idiots!

I've made mistakes, still make them and will continue to make them in the future, but I'm smart enough to make a good decision when I realize it's benefits (and vice-versa).

High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) - The Devil you say?!

2010-03-24T16:01:00.000-07:00

OK, if you've read my blog at all, before now, you know how much I love science!

Actually, I think it's one of the major reasons I took my parents' affinity for healthy food to heart (heh, no pun intended!). Did you know that my mother is asking me for advice now? She was my mentor!

Anyway, not that I am considered a fully 'accredited' person (at least, in terms of the World's idea as to proper health & nutritional education), but I do love a good scientific study. Especially when they are done right. To me, a "meta-analysis" or a 'generalized' 'population statistical analysis' are so hokey, that I hardly pick up with their findings and mass-market it, as there are SO many flaws to these 'so-called' "Scientific Methods".

That being said, Princeton University decided to put those 'corn refiners' industries' refutes, about HFCS being JUST the same as table sugar, to rest!

Now, I agree, our body, in relation to insulin, sees sugar as sugar, regardless of the source. It can cause a major insulin spike, setting off inflammation in the body, causing all sorts of metabolic havoc (this to be covered in another topic, another day). Personally, if I have too much sugar (sugar, honey, maple syrup, agave nectar, bread, corn, etc), then my eczema returns FULL force!

But those lovely folks at Princeton University proved what we all assumed HFCS to be: A major issue in today's fight against obesity in this Country! Let's be clear here, not a contributor to weight gain, but of "characteristic signs of a dangerous condition known in humans as the metabolic syndrome, including abnormal weight gain, significant increases in circulating triglycerides and augmented fat deposition, especially visceral fat around the belly."

Oh, and one more thing, did you know they've found that HFCS contains MERCURY? Yeah! Fun stuff to let the kid guzzle down after that pizza eh? (Not that I'm a saint, but I'm just sayin'....).

Fructose is NOT good for your body, without it's natural packaging. Eat an orange, eat an apple, but for God's sake, stop giving the kids a glass of juice. Don't blame me for this statement, watch this! (OR, if you prefer, the hour and a half long (full) version).

Don't shoot the messenger! Am I wrong? Are these scientists wrong? Well, personally, I know how sugar of ANY form affects me, so take a good long look at your life and daily food choices. Walk with me in banning all this junk from your life! You just may live a longer, happier, healthier life. If I can affect just one person with this blog, then I will have accomplished my goal. Anything beyond that and it will be a major bonus!

I'll leave this post short and further ponderances on this may be saved for another day, but one thing is clear, You Can't Believe EVERYTHING you see on TV!!!!

BTW, if you are curious as to why I REFUSE to use Agave Nector as a sweetener, check out these sources:

Agave Nectar is nature’s HFCS: http://www.westonaprice.org/modernfood/HFCSAgave.pdf
Why Agave Nectar is not as healthy as you think: http://www.living-foods.com/articles/agave.html

I would say "Live long and prosper", but that's showing my geeky side a bit too much for today, so "Here's to your health"! (Meh, I need 'good' tagline!).

WHY Grass-fed Beef?

2010-03-23T12:16:00.000-07:00

This post will be brief, as I have very little to add to Dr. Mercola's comments on the new "NY Times" post regarding grass-fed beef.

In all of my recent research regarding scientific proof as to why we need meat and why we need to exclude all chemical and hormonally-supplemented meat, I've found that this Doctor seems to 'get it' regarding real nutrition and optimal health.

Let Dr. Mercola enlighten us, once again, why real, whole food, without all of the junk (unlike corn-fed beef) is actually good for us AND for the environment (for all of you 'tree-huggers' out there).

Click here to read the summary of the article, the location of the article itself, but more importantly, the comments from Dr. Mercola.

Now, I don't mind a tree-hugger, here and there, but don't you stand in the way of my grass-fed beef and pastured meat! ;-)

PETA kills animals?

2010-03-23T11:43:00.000-07:00

Look, I'm the lover of animals like most, but I've never been able to stomach PETA's grotesque way of 'getting their message' out.

Personally, from what I've read about them, it has made my stomach churn.

Well, in an attempt to support local dairy farmers, one of them lead me to this bit of information. I'm sure they have their 'reasons', but I still can't stomach this group!

Personally, I like to eat 'happy cows' PETA, thank you very much...

Hurry! This EXCLUSIVE offer includes over $100 in freebies!

2010-03-18T10:11:00.000-07:00

Dear Friend,

As a valued reader of this website, I have an irresistible offer for you that includes hundreds of dollars in free gifts.

Mark Sisson is shooting to get his book, "The Primal Blueprint", to the top of the charts and he’s giving away a ton of free stuff to encourage you to buy his book within a single 24 hour period. It’s a win-win-win offer. I get the satisfaction of providing you with the offer, you get a bunch of freebies, and Mark gets the exposure for his book that it deserves.

Your special free gifts include:

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To sweeten the deal he’s put together some additional ways for you to get some extra freebies. You can read all about them here.

If you’ve been thinking about buying the Primal Blueprint this is the perfect opportunity, so buy it now and secure all the freebies before this limited-time offer ends.

P.S: Remember, to receive your free gift package you must email Mark the receipt by noon Pacific Standard Time TODAY!

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You need this book. It changed my life.

Homemade/ Organic/ All-Natural/ Eco-Friendly Cleaning Supplies

2010-03-15T14:49:00.000-07:00

Picture it: A new bride, comes home from honeymoon with a newly 'acquired' male of her choosing and attempts to 'please' him by becoming his ~~mother~~ domestic-goddess/ wife. She runs to the grocery store, month after month, purchasing the latest and greatest in home cleaning products as suggested by multi-million-dollar advertisements from the glowing boob-tube/ idiot-box only to find that the cost of such extravagance is putting a major dent in their lovely 'nest-egg'. Their nightly fight over finances spirals out of control, flinging them into deep-seeded anger, resentment, debt and finally divorce. All over the love for all things clean and the lack of education regarding alternative-cleaning-solutions with their advanced (not to mention inexpensive) capabilities. Sound familiar? OK, so I'm a recovering drama-queen, with a penchant for such overly-dramatic, off-the-wall scenarios. But you get where I'm going with this.

For years I was a slave to grocery-store cleaners. The ones with the bald-guy holding a mop and that loud lady on TV spouting off about how the 'clean smell of pine' is superb! And please, don't get me wrong, I think there are wonderful items out there (helllllooooo "Magic Eraser", where ya been all my life??!), but I'm ecstatic with this new-found simplicity of preparing and utilizing homemade cleaning supplies, especially the lack of having to shell out a small fortune for 1 bottle of glass cleaner!

I had a few acquaintances 'snub' their noses at me, saying "Well, I am VERY picky with my cleaning supplies and don't wish to part with them, thank you very much", but I too was a 'cleaning product snob' until I decided to broaden my mind, expand my cleaning-solutions horizon and take a stab at being more 'eco-freindly' with my choices in cleaning my home. The part that REALLY influenced me, was the fact that that 'sanitizing' spray that I used on the kitchen counter-top could NOT be even slightly healthy when sprayed within the vicinity of my family's prepared food or the fruit bowl!

I made a drastic change and all it took was by replacing this $5.99 bottle of kitchen-counter spray with the first 'all-natural' homemade cleaner on my list. I think you'll find that instead of finding that these are cheaper, more eco-friendly alternatives for cleaning your abode, they also boast a rather pleasant 'side-effect', which is: "THEY SIMPLY WORK BETTER"!!!

Try, experiment, tell me what else I missed and enjoy all that money you saved by taking the family out to the movies once a month!

All-purpose spray/ sanitizer/ deodorizer: 1 part fresh-squeezed lemon juice (filter out all pulp), 5 parts white vinegar and 10 parts water. Mix. Add to spray bottle and use to clean kitchen counters, sink and wooden cutting boards.

Glass Cleaner: 1 tablespoon white vinegar, 1 cup rubbing alcohol (isopropyl), 1 cup water. Add to spray bottle and clean glass with newspaper.

Grime Scrub: Sprinkle baking soda onto a damp cloth and/ or sponge to scour icky bathtub rings, bathroom sinks, or to thoroughly clean the kitchen sink.

For really tough grime, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply to the tub or sink, and allow to stand for 10 to 20 minutes. This helps to soften dirt and soap scum making them easier to remove.

Slow-running drains: Keep bathroom drains running freely by pouring 1/2 to 3/4 cup baking soda into the drain, and dribbling just enough hot water to wash the solution down. Let stand for 2 hours to overnight, then flush thoroughly with hot water. This also deodorizes the drains!

Clogged drains: Pour 3/4 cup baking soda into the drain, add 1 cup of vinegar and cover solidly to force the explosive affect of the concoction down the drain (instead of back up and into your face!) :-P

Furniture Polish (waxed/ finished wood surfaces): 1 cup olive oil, 1 cup lemon juice. Shake well and apply a small amount to a flannel rag or cloth. Spread evenly over furniture surface. Turn cloth to a dry side and polish dry.

Stain remover (homemade "OxyClean"): 1 cup water, 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide, 1/2 cup baking soda. Mix together and soak laundry in it for 20 minutes to overnight and then wash as usual. Or you can just skip the water and pour the peroxide and baking soda directly into the wash with your laundry soap and wash as usual. Do not attempt to add to a spray bottle, as the baking soda will clog the spray nozzle (not that I would know...er...just saying.....).

Fabric Softener: 3 cups vinegar, 2 cups Hair Conditioner, 6 cups water (distilled is a good choice to eliminate possible stains from deposits in 'dirty' tap water). Mix and use as normal. Personally, I like the convenience of using the "Downy Ball"). You can also keep a jar filled with this mixture in the laundry room, with several rags inside. You would just pull out a rag and squeeze off the excess liquid and toss into the dryer with the wet laundry. Also, throw in an aluminium foil ball for static. Easy, cheep and affective! (NOTE: Vinegar is great for cutting the 'detergent grime' that accumulates on your clothes, which causes fabric fiber breakdown, attracts dirt and oil, causing possible allergic reactions, etc. Also, the vinegar 'odor' dissipates, leaving your laundry fresh and clean, while the hair conditioner can be used to create a lovely scent, if desired.).

I KNOW there are more than what I listed here, so, please, feel free to email or comment with additional information, recipes, suggestions, etc.

And, no, I am not available to clean your house, give your cat a flea-bath or to teach your husband how to put down the toilet seat. We're still working on the 'clothing-on-the-floor-what's-a-hamper-for?' thing....

Coffee Almond Gluten-Free Cookies

2010-03-11T11:29:00.001-08:00

(Adapted from the recipe for Hazelnut Espresso Cookies in the Jan/Feb 2010 issue of Clean Eating magazine)

Ingredients:

*2 cups almonds or almond flour
*1 Tb. freeze-dried regular or decaf organic coffee
*3/4 cup Erythritol
*1/2 tsp. Himalayan or sea salt
*4 large egg whites
*1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
*1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

Directions:

Preheat oven to 325°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silpat. Process almonds, coffee, sugar, and salt in a high speed blender or food processor until fine. Transfer to a mixing bowl. If using almond flour, you can skip the blender/food processor and mix the ingredients right in your bowl.

Using an electric mixer, beat egg whites until stiff.

Fold nut mixture into the egg whites. Add the vanilla and cinnamon and mix just until blended.

Spoon the batter onto your cookie sheets. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

My Favorite Bloggers

2010-03-05T15:03:00.000-08:00

Want to know where I get my information? My love for all things 'healthy'? Well, my parents 'infected' me with the 'health-bug' at a very early age, but lately, I can attribute a lot of ongoing education and inspiration to my fellow 'primal' bloggers.

Time for some link love.

RECIPES/ FOOD

My favorite 'chef' has to be "Joyful Abode". She's a personal friend of mine and a very inspiring cook. She's currently hosting a little bun in the proverbial oven, so we'll see how well she handles a blog, cooking from scratch as well as being a mother & wife, but if I know her as well as I do, she'll do JUST fine!

Son of Grok, is was one of the originals for great recipes. Looks like he'll be coming out with a recipe book soon!

Elizabeth, with Caveman Food can cook up a beautiful bounty of healthy food, with lovely pictures to boot! Check out that recent recipe for "GO-TO CURRY shrimpy style"! Makes my mouth water!

Can't forget Starro with N1Kitchen. Fabulous inspirational site for food!

EXERCISE

My pal, Daniel started a blog encouraging us to sweat, but as you will see, there is also much more that he has to offer!

NUTRITION

Hyperlipid shows us REAL, SCIENTIFIC facts on why good, real, fat is not only NOT bad for you, but absolutely necessary! Before you blast me on my love for good dietary fat, take a good long virtual walk through this guy's extensive blog on research and FACTS that will get you on the same page with me regarding the silly (nay, the dangerous) myth that fat is bad for you!

In the same token, "The Heart Scan Blog" shows us the truth behind arterial plaque and heart disease (SPOILER! It's NOT [healthy] dietary fat!!!!)

Only trust a doctor? How about a real M.D. with a wonderful grasp on real dietary truth! Dr. Mike Eades, author of "Protein Power", is also one of the creators of a new, in-home, Sous Vide machine (I will be posting about this soon).

Dr. Mercola is a 'cult favorite' for those of us into 'real' nutrition, proactive health and healing. I also love the products and supplements that he offers as well. All-in-all, a fabulous resource of mine!

These are just the tip of the iceberg for my favorites, I apologize to anyone I've left out. I will revisit my link-sharing post another day, so stay tuned and contact me if you want to be featured!

HURRY! $5 off of your 1st order with Terra Organics' local Produce!

2010-03-05T09:01:00.000-08:00

We made the switch! My family no longer visits the large-chain grocery store for wilted, chemically-treated, genetically modified fruits and vegetables. We now buy from a local CSA (Community Supported Agriculture)! The company "Terra Organics", a local CSA, was referred to me from a friend by which he received $5 off of his next order because I signed up and gave his name as a referral.

Now, not only do I get a discount on my next order, but you too can get a discount when you sign up today!

Because the produce is local, the box changes each week (I'm excited for Spring!!!). Just last night, my box came to my door step (no need to run to the grocery store after a long, hard day at the office!) and I had fresh radishes, romaine lettuce, grapefruit, pears, apples, carrots, kiwi, asparagus, & broccoli waiting for me! I don't eat potatoes or beans, so on the Terra Organics' website, I can choose certain foods that I prefer not to receive and they substitute those items for me (the list of items that you don't want is saved to your profile, so you don't need to fill it out each week)!

Just click here to sign up and enter my name: "Ingrid Finicle" for the referral name/ promo code and you will enjoy fresh, local produce for $5 off. Just think, $20 for a whole box full of beautiful, local, organic produce!

Primal Con 2010

2010-02-08T11:10:00.000-08:00

Want to escape to an all-suite resort with beautiful Spanish-style grounds, right on the expansive Oxnard State Beach? Me too!

Introducing "Primal Con 2010"! The weekend will consist of a stimulating mix of workouts, play, leisure, classroom education, and of course delicious Primal feasts!

The early-bird conference fee is $695 and includes all meals and a PrimalCon event bag stocked with incredible participant gifts, apparel, and nutrition.

Click on the post link or the banner above for more information on this fabulous opportunity for fun in the sun, good eats, Primal nutrition & workouts education as well as to hang with some fabulous friends from the 'Primal' community!

Will I be there? Can I sell a kidney on the black market? Well, we'll see if I can afford it by then....

9 Food Label Lies

2010-02-05T16:16:00.000-08:00

"The Daily Green" posted an article on the "9 Food Label Lies". I agree with most of the post, with exception to 'saturated fats'. This myth about ALL saturated fat being bad for you must DIE!

Anyway, here is a list of the "9 Food Label Lies"

Made with whole grains
List of Ingredients
Serving size
Omega 3 content
Made with 'real fruit'
0 grams of Trans Fat
Free-range Eggs
Fiber
'Our food will heal you'!

I could go on an on about each one of these (especially the 'whole grains'), but I challenge you to buy food that has ingredients that you can read, understand or just don't buy food with labels period! Personally, I rarely eat anything that is pre-packaged anymore and I spend less time at the grocery store. In fact, I don't venture down any of the internal isles! I go to the produce section, the dairy section & then the meat/ deli section and that's it!

Actually, I buy my meat online and go through a local 'csa' for local, organic fruit and vegetables. I like that I am supporting my local Organic farmers. Soon, I will be able to find 'pastured' meat and REAL free-range eggs that are local and inexpensive too!