" Rise ... "

I used to be afraid of giving up

The road was just too tough

Out here on my own

My path was so alone

But now I see clearly

Everything within me

Is reaching up to the sky

I can see the world with open eyes

You can't let it pass you

Just take hold and grasp it

Now's the time to take a chance

And together we'll rise

We'll rise

Together we can do anything

~ McClain Sisters ~ Rise ~ 

***

There is a great deal of conversation regarding yeast, nutritional yeast that is, in vegan lifestyles.  But not all yeast is good yeast, so it is important to learn about the beneficial bacteria and the affects on our digestion and immune system.

Candida albicans, also known as a pathogenic yeast.  This single cell organism is found growing throughout our bloodstream and organs.  It is a cause for much of the inflammation that disrupts bodily functions.  And like all yeasts, it thrives on sugars that are abundant in the modern western diet.  And while it feasts on these sugars, it also drains your body of essential nutrients.

Different Types of Yeast

• Bakers Yeast – A live yeast that is typically purchased in packets or in a compressed brick
• Brewers Yeast – A live yeast used in the brewing of alcoholic beverages like beer (or other malt beverages)
• Nutritional Yeast – Nutritional yeast is no-longer alive. It has similar nutrients and amino acids but no sugar content. It has a taste similar to cheese which is why vegetarians commonly use nutritional yeast flakes in recipes to make vegan cheeses, on pizza, or sprinkled over pasta or popcorn.
• Candida Yeast – The bad yeast that thrives in our body.

Most raw vegans use nutritional yeast because it provides a good source of B vitamins.  But what really IS nutritional yeast??  Well, some studies claim that it is a neurotoxin, a GMO product, a disguised MSG, added synthetic vitamins, and flavor enhancers.  As well that it contains Free Glutamate Acid which is the same neurotoxin compound as mono sodium glutamate (MSG).  They disguise the true identity of MSG with fancy names.

As well, in various books there are beliefs that nutritional yeast, bakers yeast and brewers yeast are not well tolerated and can contribute to the over growth of yeast infections and candida in the body.  This can wreck havoc particularly with those living with chronic ill-nesses or dis-eases.

Yet you don’t have to completely cut out yeast as it can be beneficial and does occur naturally as a part of the normal flora in our digestive system.  So keep it in check ... if you are susceptible to yeast, choose gluten-free foods, natural sweeteners and foods that have a much less dramatic impact on your glycemic index / sugar levels.

Always check with your preferred health-care provider 

to assist you in optimum foods for optimum health.

www.walkstrong.ca

" Where Are You? ... "

Hey you

Have you felt like this before?

You got style but ain't got soul ... 

Is there no future in sight?

Oh is it different now? Is it different?

Come on

Where are you? Where are you?

I'm kicking and screaming ... 

But this could be the best day, of my life

The best day of my life

~ Our Lady Peace ~ Where Are You?

***

It’s been some time since I blogged.  Really it’s been some time since I’ve done much at all.  It’s been a rough time, but I am here.  The last 2.5 weeks or so I’ve been sick ... 

severe nausea, headaches, fever, wooziness, sleepless nights, out of sorts, and well basically not myself.  

First and foremost, Russell has been my rock, my Mom and Dad have been my foundation and my sister and bro-in-law have been my pillars.  I cannot even think of how I would have gotten through it all without any of them by my side.  And thanks to my beautiful friends Ally and Vanessa, letting me know that I am not alone, they are there for me, praying and holding me up, supporting me ... 

After a few panic attacks, not my proudest moments, test results, which came back normal, and plenty of doctors appointments and consults with my team of doctors here and in Mexico ... I am slowly getting back to before all this.  So, what is all this ... looks like a virus or bug of some sort.  And it hit me extremely hard.  The symptoms are still present but not has strong ... and what I couldn’t understand was how this could be happening?

With almost 16 months on the therapy, I’ve been extremely fortunate to have minor flare ups ... or healing reactions/crisis.  So it is scary when you are not fully aware if what you are experiencing is a major healing crisis or a disease crisis.  No thanks to dr.Google ... there is a lot of wrong information out there.  You truly have to be find out for yourself.  And that is the frightening part.

I was under the assumption that since I am building up my immune system and blogging about it ... how could I get sick?  Newsflash ... we all get sick, giving our immune system an opportunity to kick in and go to work.  Wow, this has been a time where my faith, my beliefs, and my hopes have all been tested.  Again.  And in all honestly, they continue to be.  I was hoping this would get easier, but it doesn’t.  With my anxiety and panic, on a scale of one to ten, at a 100 ... I found it so difficult to stay rational and calm.  During the time of unknown, my Dad said to me, whatever it is, face it with determination, strength and courage.  Easier said than done because many times, I seriously thought this was ...

Today has been the first day since that I wanted to blog again ... and let you know yep, still here, taking baby steps to get back to a new normal.  And during this troubling time I read something that really resonated with me that I wanted to share ...

“And once the storm is over, you won’t remember how you made it through, 

how you managed to survive. You won’t even be sure, whether the storm is really over. But one thing is certain. When you come out of the storm, 

you won’t be the same person who walked in. That’s what this storm’s all about.” 

♥ Haruki Murakami

" Higher ... "

I do this just for kicks, just for the thrill (thrill)

I got this high without taking a pill (pill)

This groove has got me way over the sun (sun)

I'm dancing like I am the only one (one)

'Cause I can't get enough, I can't get enough

I can't stay on the ground (whoa)

I can't get enough, I can't get enough

This is taking me now

~ Taio Cruz ~ Higher ~

***

As mentioned in my last post, my Gerson Therapy is producing encouraging results.  To give my immune system a kick in the pants, the Gerson doctors recommended ~50 grams/week of vitamin C intravenously.  Yes, that is a very generous amount, considering the recommended daily intake is ten times lower.  So whats with the higher dose?

Well, first some history ... the “Father of Vitamin C”, Dr. Linus Pauling realized during his research, that large doses of vitamin C have significant effects on our immune system and anti-tumour effects.  

So how does it work ... vitamin C works in two ways.  First, in high enough doses it can destroy cancer cells.  It is thought that vitamin C overwhelms the ability of tumour cells to suppress hydrogen peroxide production and this build up of H2O2 in cancer cells kills them.  Secondly, cancer cells produce an enzyme called “hyaluonidase” that destroys healthy tissue around them thus facilitating tumour growth and metastasis.  High doses of vitamin C inhibit this enzyme.  

In summary, some of the benefits include ... 

* increase quality of life
* prolong survival
* enhance action of some chemotherapeutic agents
* limits body wide tissue damage from free radicals (created by chemotherapy)
* safe and non-toxic to healthy cells

Also it is worth to note that “the excitement around vitamin C and cancer was diminished by a later trial done by the Mayo clinic that could not repeat the findings by Cameron and Pauling, leading to a dismissal of its potential role in oncology.  We now know that the results were not reproducible simply because the Mayo clinic used oral dosing of vitamin C, whereas IV administration is the only way to reach the required tissue saturation levels for vitamin C to act as just described above”.

Unfortunately, it can personally be an expensive undertaking as most insurance companies consider this experimental.  Yet a growing number of naturopath oncologists are integrating intravenous (IV) vitamin C into their cancer treatment protocols ... hopefully it is just a matter of time until integrative cancer care will be the norm.

 ... give thanks for unknown blessings already on their way ॐ

" Under Pressure ... "

Insanity laughs under pressure we're cracking

Can't we give ourselves one more chance?

Why can't we give love that one more chance?

Why can't we give love, give love, give love..?

'Cause love's such an old-fashioned word

and love dares you to care for

The people on the edge of the night

And love dares you to change our way of

Caring about ourselves

This is our last dance, this is ourselves

Under pressure, Under pressure

~ Queen ~ Under Pressure ~

***

Stress.  We all know it.  But when people say that stress can kill you are they exaggerating?  I don’t think so.  Stress kills people every single day.  And sure you don’t seem them dropping like flies from it because it takes a long time for it to really do some damage to you.  But the cornoner’s report rarely list “stress” as the cause of death.  This is because stress itself doesn’t kill you ... stress leads to a wide range of other health problems that will.

Think about it ... you are living a otherwise positive and happy life and suddenly you develop unexplained symptoms.  Your quality of life diminishes ... good chance they are related to stress.  But what is “stress” exactly.  

Stress is an explaination of a series of negative effects and emotions ... such as anxiety, worry, fatigue, laziness, agitation, concentration problems, mood swings, lack of motivation, insomnia, depression, isolation, anger, depression, paranoia, and possibly suicidal.

Yet the greatest damage is to our immune system.  Research has shown that stressing over a long period of time raises our cortisol levels.  Corisol is a hormone that the body produces and one which naturally suppresses the immune system.  There is a lot of research regarding the immunosuppression and it's correlation with different types of diseases. An immunosuppressed person is more likely to catch the common cold and flu, as well as more likely to get serious life-threatening diseases.  

I recently read the following 5 steps, which I try to adapt ... 

EXPECT IT ~ Be prepared by taking good care of yourself; you never know what the day will bring.  Life is an adventure so approach it as such.  Be your own cheerleader.  Spend time with God everyday, be confident in what you believe, and draw strength from it.

EMBRACE IT ~ Get a new attitude towards life ... a determined stance to ride the waves of life and succeed through the storms. I decided long ago I would not live a life of regret. Now, as I get ready for the day, I say a prayer for strength to face with confidence what comes my way, and the courage to get help and support when overwhelmed. 

EVALUATE IT ~ Be honest and real about what pressures occupy your thoughts, consume your energy or cause you grief.  Are you exaggerating the importance of a stressor: will it really matter one year from now, or five years from now?

ENGAGE IT ~ It’s time to take action.  If you can change it, do it now.  Procrastination is one of your worst enemies, stealing precious moments of your life. 

EMERGE FROM IT ~ Process the pressure and pain to get through it, and emerge successful and free. This requires effort, whether it is to brush off the stress of the day, or to push through the weight of a significant loss.   

Face the strong currents of life with a defiant attitude and intention to achieve your goals, regardless of your circumstances.  Decide that life is worth living ... we all have a purpose, and we will succeed if we manage the stress in our life in a healthy manner. 

" Wake Me Up ... "

Wake me up when the skies are clearing,

When the water is still,

'cause I will not watch the ships sail away so,

Please say you will ...

Wake me up when it's over,

Wake me up when it's done,

If it were any other day,

This wouldn't get the best of me.

~ Norah Jones ~ Wake Me Up ~

***

Wake-up calls ... we continue to experience these series of moments ... you know various events in and out of your life where maybe they didn’t immediately affect your actions, but left enough of an imprint that when combined with others, help stimulate your change.  Eventually and hopefully we connect the dots on these, trust our gut, follow our instincts and make the right decisions.  

Looking back, there were a series of events, but I just wasn’t paying attention.  I didn't connect the dots.  I needed the universe to stop me in my tracks, shake the ground to take notice.  My "this is your life calling" wake up call truly rang when I heard three words ...“You have cancer”.  It was scary, distressing and even nauseating.  Yet I quickly realised that being in that space wouldn’t get me anywhere and I’d only remove my own power if I tried to sort my life out by wallowing in negativity.  

Cancer diagnosis is always serious yet I believe waiting and becoming very aware that what I was being offered was not necessarily my best option, as I weighed up the risks from side effects against little benefits.  After I got over the shock of the diagnosis, I made the most critical decision of my life.  I did this by educating myself ... and choosing to support my immune system, rather than destroy it.

I recently read that “cancer is the body’s suicide note, and it will carry it out unless the person changes”.  Don't wait for desperation to force your hand.  Take a person inventory and if you need to, change what is dysfunctional in your life NOW.  Be honest with yourself, you will know what needs to change ............ just don’t wait for that "note" to wake you up.

Remember, It is not what life presents to us which defines who we are but who we choose to be in relationship to it.

" Joints ... "

"I can feel it in my joints

It aches and creaks and

There's no point

In growing old

Oh this life I've made on my own

Is lonely with the love I've known

Where are you

Is where I want to be

Where are you"

~ Holly Miranda ~ Joints ~

***

Today I want to talk about joints ... yes that's right good old fashion joints.  I still remember the day when I tried to get out of bed only to fall hard on my bedroom floor.  I was 14 years old.  My parents were frantcially worried about what was causing my loss of mobility.  Openly they talked about if I had missed a vaccine, something, anything ... they feared the worse.  After an emergency visit to our family doctors office and routine tests, the diagnosis ... severe joint pain aka Arthritis.  Huh?  It didn’t make sense ... wasn’t arthritis an “old person’s” dis-ease ... my grandmother struggled with it and it hereditary as most of my aunts and mom lived with it.  So I bought into what the doctors told me ... the idea of a lifetime of one medication after another.

So what is Arthritis?  Arthritis means inflammation of the joint which may be caused by wear and tear, infection, injury or auto immune process.  Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis that affects the big joints in the body.  Rheumatoid arthritis initially destroys the connective tissue arond the joints before affecting the bone while gout is caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the body.  Unfortunately arthritis is still very present in our family ... luckily I have reversed this in my body while on the Gerson Therapy ... btw, now on week 45.  And although my primary intention is to fully recover from my cancer diagnosis, I can attest to minimal arthritic pain in my body after living with it for almost 30 years.

How?  Well the Gerson Therapy is so powerful as it naturally boosts your body’s own immune system to heal cancer, arthritis, heart dis-esae, allergies and many other degenerative dis-eases.  With the abundance of nutrients from fresh, organic juices consumed every day and superdoses of enzymes, minerals and nutrients, diseased tissue is broken down.  Plus the enemas aid in eliminating the lifelong buidup of toxins from the liver.  For me, the diagnosis of arthritis does not have to mean a lifetime of medication anymore.  

Regardless of the type of arthritis one suffers from, this therapy offers phenomenal relief ~ restoring joint function and enjoying a life free from pain.  For more information, have a read of “Defeating Arthritis, Bone and Joint Diseases” by Charlotte Gerson.

" Helping Hand ... "

" Everybody needs a helping hand
Take a look at your fellow man
And tell me what can I do today
Everybody needs a helping out
If that ain't what it's all about
Tell me what
What can I do
What can I do today"

~ Amy Grant ~ Helping Hand ~

***

I find it really interested when I share the types of medications that I am currently taking on the Gerson Therapy with my Mommy girlfriends ... in particular, their ears perk up when they hear Colostrum.  Yes that is right, Colostrum, naturally produced by the mammary gland of a mother prior to the production of milk.  The difference being that the form we ingest during treatment is defatted.  


Why?  Well, whole Colostrum contains the natural fat, which includes fat-soluble vitamins.  When this is filtered or defatted, elements are removed that could cause allergic reactions.  The result is a Colostrum that is rich in protein and high levels of immunoglobulins.  Filtered Colostrum products can be very potent (40% or higher immunoglobulins) and are intended for the treatment of flu-type symptoms, severe colds, inflammation, and immune system disorder such as cancer.  They are quickly absorbed through the intestinal tract into the blood stream.


Jogging our memories, many of us have been told about how good mothers milk is for a newborn.  The reason being that  Colostrum provides life-supporting immune and growth factors that insures the health and vitality of the baby.  Therefore the connection being that Colostrum can aid in cancer treatment because in particular the Gerson Therapy focuses on the body's ability to heal itself.  Detoxifying the body and then flooding the body with nutrients, will help the body to rebuild.  And since Colostrum strengthens the immune system, many people who have trouble healing after surgery or are undergoing toxic treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation, choose to support their healing.  Hence, as a means to strengthen the weakened immune system, oral consumption of Colostrum is simple, inexpensive and free of harmful side effects.  And since I am on a natural, alternative treatment for cancer, I can use all the help I can get to rebuild my immune system.  


So given the increasing incidence of cancer and our ongoing exposure to many carcinogens in our environment, it may be wise for many to incorporate an anti-cancer diet and lifestyle for prevention and maybe with a little help if you desire.  Of course, first consult your health practitioner when considering any form of medication, synthetic or herbal.  I for one am not in favour of self-medicating, yet am in favour of understanding your health.  Always, always, always do your research and know what you are ingesting in your body ... and know the benefits and side effects to determine if it is right for you. 

" Highs N Lows ... "

"I be high then I be low
I be low then I be high

I be high when I get what I couldn't before

I be low when I'm looking at a stressed face
It's like a battle knife to a gun fight
No need to worry this the story of my life ..."

~ Kid Cudi ~ Highs N Lows ~

***

Well, we are starting week 40 of the Gerson Therapy.  Yes incredible to think ... I remember talking to family and friends at week 1 wondering how we were going to do this, how we would manage.  And I am happy to report, we have and we are.  As mentioned in my prior posts, thanks to the kindness, generosity, love and support of what I like to call my earth angels.

Since my last post, I have experienced some real highs and some real lows.  Personally, I have been feeling stronger, better and more determined than ever to beat this horrid dis-ease.  I had a great healing session with my beautiful friend, Jolene of Coreporate Care, whom I mentioned in my last post.  Some great insight and affirmations.  Feeling like I am on the road to recovery and healing ... having worked really hard to get to this point, it feels good to feel this way.  And just when I was staying present in my world and my reality ... we had a dear friend of ours pass away.  Highs N Lows.

Vesna was a friend we met at the Gerson clinic in March 2011 and arrived a few days short of our 3 week stay.  She was accompanied by her husband.  The first day, we exchanged stories as to what brought us to the Tijuana.  Our commonality ... breast cancer.  There was a lot of shared frustration, anger, fear and curiosity.  Russell and I, having the majority of our visit under our belts, felt quite equipped to share our knowledge, understanding and beliefs around the therapy.  With Vesna, she was not new to a cancer diagnosis, as this being a reoccurrence, she had felt that a different option from what she had already experienced could work.  With our the severity of our diagnosis varying, our sense of desperation varied too.  I knew that look, that feeling ... I had it 2 weeks prior.  And so I tried to lend my support and encouragement around the therapy, why it works, why it is important to follow it as directed ... why we had to believe.  And we all believed, to some level, or we wouldn't have been there ... again, all of us desperately searching for the unattainable ... a sure thing, a guarantee. 

All of us at the clinic knew that in "theory" the Gerson Therapy works.  But, we also knew that we all respond differently, heal differently ... for some, our immune systems were not strong enough to endure the flare ups and healing reactions to come our way.  For others, we would continue on the therapy.  We all knew that we would do our best and also do what is takes to heal ... conventional, Gerson, or a combination of both.  Regardless of the choice of treatment, we all had the same intentions ... and provided unconditional support.

For Vesna, she left us this past weekend ... passing away peacefully.  I trust she IS at peace now.  All the frustration, anger and fear replaced with solace, harmony and love.  I trust our friend is looking down upon the rest of the Gersonators and cheering us on, believing in us ... knowing we all have our own journey to take.  

♥ Rest in Peace our beautiful friend ♥

" I'm the Cure ... "

"Tell all your friends I'm the cure
Tell them again and again
Watching the walls, spinning in doors
I can bring you peace of mind ...
Waiting around for something to happen
Bring you this instant relief"

~Midnight Oil ~ I'm the Cure ~

***

Whenever I discuss with a friend about how the Gerson Therapy works, there are loads and loads of questions about the restricted diet.  It is silly to think that a "diet" alone will cure cancer, but it is a huge factor shaping our health.  We are what we eat and food is our fuel.  And for some it may be a surprise as to why while following the Gerson programme, the only we are allowed is Flaxseed oil.  

So why flaxseed oil?  Well, it is a natural oil that is considered to be nature's richest source of omega-3 fatty acids that are required for the health of almost all body systems.  Some nutritionists believe that it could be the most important health-promoting supplement next to a multi-vitamin, supporting cardiovascular, immune, circulatory, reproductive and nervous systems, as well as joints.  Studies shown  that omega-3 fatty acids:

• help lower cholesterol and prevent clots in arteries.  
• protect the body against high blood pressure, inflammation and water retention
• shorten recovery time for fatigued muscles after exertion
• accelerate the healing of sprains and bruises
• ease weight loss in people afflicted with obesity
• stimulate brown fat cells and increase the metabolic rate, burning off fat

In regards to the Gerson Therapy, the following information is provided by the Gerson Institute:

"Dr. Gerson realized the need for the right type of essential fatty acids. He experimented with many types of oils and found that in all cases fats other than flax seed oil stimulated tumor growth and even the regrowth of tumors that had resolved. 

Flax seed oil is an omega 3 fatty acid containing linolenic and linoleic acids that inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and lipid mediators and thus reduces inflammatory responses in the body. It attracts oxygen at the cell membrane assisting in transport of oxygen into the cell. It also helps carry vitamin A through the blood stream. Lignans come from part of the fiber of the seed and are high in protein. Although they can provide health benefits for certain conditions, high lignan flax oil is not allowed on the Gerson Therapy as it introduces too much protein. 

Seeds, including flax seeds, have an important substance in them called an enzyme inhibitor that keeps them dormant until they are in the right environment to sprout. This enzyme inhibitor can also inhibit human digestive enzymes and interfere with good digestion."


As for me, currently, I am allowed one tablespoon at lunch and another at dinner.  After making sure my potatoes are a room temperature, I drizzle the the oil on and then add a great green sauce (Gerson approved) made up of garlic, onion, cilantro and apple cider vinegar.  Shakes up the monotonous taste of potatoes twice a day while allowing me to get the full benefit of the flax seed oil.




ALWAYS consult your health practitioner when considering any form of supplement, medication, synthetic or herbal.  I for one am not in favour of self-medicating, yet am in favour of understanding what you are feeding your body ... and know the benefits and side effects to determine if it is right for you.

“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food” ~ Hippocrates

" Dream On ... "

" Every time I look in the mirror 
All these lines on my face getting clearer
The past is gone
It went by, like dusk to dawn
Isn't that the way
Everybody's got their dues in life to pay ... 

Dream On, Dream On, Dream On ... "

~ Aerosmith ~ Dream On ~

***

I, for one, use to underestimate the power of Sleep.  I use to be one of those that once again took pride in working lots and sleep less.  Like I was looking for a badge of honour or something.  I imagine some of those around me thought I was insane.  Asking themselves, how can you function with minimal sleep?  And it was also the quality of sleep.  Once I would get to bed, I would lie awake allowing my thoughts to review all the going ons in my life, eventually falling asleep ... then, I would wake in the middle of the night only to be irritated that I couldn't fall back to sleep ... finally getting a few zzz's in prior to the darn alarm clock waking us.  Overall, not well rested and just played frustrated.  Sound familiar?

Yet the importance of sleep, rest and dreams is critical for optimum health.  Getting less than 6 or 7 hours of sleep can increase our risk for developing dis-ease.  "Rest = Restoration" ... Sleep provides us an opportunity to cleanse, repair and rejuvenate on a deep cellular level and we can nourish our body within this natural cycles of rest ... this is when the healing work takes place.  Without the need to attend to all of the functions of daily life, our immune system and organs of detoxification can focus attention on cleansing and restoration.  This is the time when our bodies does major housecleaning, taking care of wastes that have accumulated during the day and repairing cellular damage.  So overriding this desire for sleep interferes with the natural rhythm of cleansing.  Also, according to some in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, as well as Western naturopathic healing philosophy, the most important hours for detoxification and rejuvenation are before midnight.  The earlier you go to bed, the better.  

For the most restful and restorative sleep make sure that your sleeping environment is as healthful as possible.  We have cotton bedding to allow the body to breathe.  As well we keep our window open a few inches year round for fresh air.  A few other things we do to prepare for a good night sleep is to avoid stressful mental activity right before bed, and listen to soothing music or meditate.  Sometimes a brisk 30 minute walk or a soothing hot bath can help.  Anything to get you to relax, unwind and prepare for your healing sleep.

This is all so timely as tonight, here in Calgary, we get to wind our clocks and "fall back" with the time change.  Very excited as another hour of rest is always welcome.  And a recent survey in our city asked "what will you do with that extra hour tonight?" ... and it I was happy to see that the majority will use it to benefit their health and ... Sleep.

♥ Sleep is the best meditation ♥ Dalai Lama

"Soul Inside ... "

"and the beat of my heart
Marks the passing of time
And I just wanna scream to the sky
There are times when my mind is an explosion of feelings
I`m trying to hold on to the soul inside"

~ Soft Cell ~ Soul Inside ~

***

Another supplement prescribed on the Gerson Therapy is Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10).  CoQ10 is a naturally-occuring vitamin-like nutrient found in every cell of the body.  It is present in highest concentrations in cell mitochondria or where energy is produced.  It's primary function is to help with the conversion of food and oxygen into energy.

You may be wondering if CoQ10 is "naturally-ocurring" why prescribe it?  Well as you know, those diagnosed with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses have a direct connection with weaken immune systems and require all the tools available to rebuild themselves.  And, anti-oxidants are important.  They are substances that protect cells from the damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals.  Free radical damage may lead to cancer.  Antioxidants interact with and stabilize free radicals.

So, back to Coenzyme Q10 .... it is a powerful antioxidant and provides additional help neutralizing damage-causing free radicals.  Studies have show that additional supplementation supports healthy blood pressure, cholesterol levels as well as promotes healthy immune-system functions.  Also, due to aging, levels of CoQ10 decline, resulting in less efficient organ function because of reduced energy supply.

As always, check with your health care practitioner prior to taking any supplements.  Inquire about the "type" of CoQ10 you are prescribed to ensure you are getting the highest quality, 100% natural form.  Some synthetic forms are processed using tobacco and other non-natural molecules of unproven effectiveness.  Making sure CoQ10 is produced by natural fermentation; the version identical to the human body's own CoQ10.

"A wise man should consider that health is the greatest of human blessings, and learn how by his own thought to derive benefit from his   illnesses" - Hippocrates 

"Tea In The Sahara ..."

"My sisters and I
Have this wish before we die
And it may sound strange
As if our minds are deranged
Please don't ask us why
Beneath the sheltering sky
We have this strange obsession
You have the means in your possession

We want our tea in the Sahara with you
We want our tea in the Sahara with you"

~ Sting ~ Tea In The Sahara ~

***

Today I had the pleasure of sharing a cup of tea with a loving friend.  I love visits, they sure do make my day.  And it was not just an ordinary tea we shared, it was Tulsi tea.  I was fortunate to have my Mom give Russell and I this plant which we have growing in a pot near our kitchen window.  Growing up, I knew about the Tulsi plant, mainly because of references made in bollywood movies nicely wrapped with some religious connection.  And I would admire it from afar every time we visited my parent's home.  My Mom is very proud of her Tulsi plant and then one lucky day, she gave me one to grow and nuture.  Yaay me!

So what is Tulsi you may be wondering?  Well, Tulsi (Hindi: तुलसी ) is also known as the "Holy Basil".  It is an aromatic plant ... considered widespread as a cultivated plant and an escaped weed.  It grows tall with hairy stems and simple opposite green leaves that are strongly scented.  Tulsi is cultivated for religious and medicinal purposes, and for its essential oil.  It is widely used across South Asia as a medicinal plant and an herbal tea.  Commonly used in Ayurveda, it has an important role within the tradition of Hinduism, in which devotees perform worship involving Tulsi plants or leaves.  India recognizes this sacred herb because of its health benefits and healing properties.

So what's all the healing hubbub about?  ...  Well, Tulsi is known for its rich antioxidant properties that are known to promote wellness by building the body's immune system, reducing stress and promoting mental clarity.  By protecting cells from the damage caused by free radicals, Tulsi facilitates the cause and progression of various types of dis-eases; basically inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.  And on a daily basis, Tulsi can help with infections from viruses, bacteria and fungi.  Sounds pretty cool eh?

So why not give it a go?  Perhaps skip that coffee and try out some Tulsi tea.  Pop down to your local organic food store and explore the tea section.  There a loads of brands to choose from.  And remember, above all else, it tastes so SO good, especially on a gorgeous fall day with a loving friend ... ahh BLISS!

"Same Difference ..."

"the more I know 

the less I doubt

that you know less

the more you are finding out

same difference everywhere"

~ Entombed ~ Same Difference ~

***

The other day when my sister and I were chatting, she shared with me her recent purchase of Coconut water.  She asked me if I knew the difference between Coconut water and Coconut juice and for that matter, Coconut milk.  I guessed that juice meant sugar added and milk and water were one in the same.  But I really didn't know for sure.  So being the curious one that I am, I started to look into the difference and if they were one in the same.

So what did I find out ... well Coconut water can also be called Coconut juice in some circles, while in others, sugar IS added, so reason to read your labels!  Coconut water is only found inside the tender young coconut as you must get the coconut off the tree before it matures.  At this early sage, a green husk hides the clear water inside the fruit.  As the fruit ripens, the inner coconut grows sweeter, developing first into a soft substance called coconut jelly, then into the harder meat.  Coconut milk is the water that comes from the meat/shell of the coconut.  The color and rich taste of the milk can be attributed to the high oil content.  

And what is the hoopla about coconuts and the health benefits associated with it ... well they have loads of vitamins and minerals.  A few key nutrients include lauric acid, chloride and iron.  As well as important electrolytes potassium, magnesium, calcium, sodium, and phosphorous.  In fact the potassium content is twice the level than a banana ~ and we know electrolytes are important for optimal health of our muscular, cardiovascular, nervous and immune systems.

Some studies have shown that the water/juice of a coconut may help with a number of minor to severe health conditions because of the antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory antioxidant activity within. Whew!  say that 5 times fast.  But seriously, this drink has been used to regulate blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels, as well as boost energy levels and increase metabolism in the body.  And unless you have an allergy to coconuts, there appears to be no side effects.  

So where do you buy this magical liquid ... well it is readily available in cans or bottles from many grocery stores of online retailers.  Again, check your labels regarding sugar content.  Fresh plastic wrapped coconuts can also be purchased at many Indian and Asian grocery stores during the summer.  When buying fresh coconuts with green husks, look for those with some light brown spots as well since these are considered to have the greatest water content.  On a side note, some have noted that the water from Indian coconuts tends to be sweeter than Thai.  Also, when using fresh coconuts, try to drink the water as soon as possible since the nutrients can begin to dissipate after being exposed to air.  And similar to other liquids, it can also be refrigerated for 10 to 12 hours if it is sealed in a tight container.

If you are shopping around and looking for a good brand of coconut water, Jess Ainscough, the Wellness Warrior (also a fellow Gerson patient) wrote a great blog post recommending a Coconut water company in Australia, C Coconut.