LivingBetter Online Magazine

Zeolites help eliminate heavy metals and toxins from the body

2010-02-02T13:55:00.001-08:00

A new study finds that zeolites will help everyone to eliminate heavy
metals and toxins from their bodies. The potential health benefits are
enormous.

Across the globe, heavy metal toxins and other pollutants are
everywhere in our environment. These pollutants exist in our air,
water, and food supplies, our workplaces, even our homes and
automobiles. The human physiological system has many mechanisms in
place for excreting these contaminants, through sweating,
incorporation into hair and nails, defecation and urination.

However, the ability to excrete and eliminate these environmental
toxins varies by individual as well as the nature of the contaminant.
The buildup of toxins in the brain, muscles, and fatty tissues often
occurs very slowly and can eventually result in clinically significant
levels of heavy metals that result in disease.

Flowers, Lonky, and Deitsch (2009) found activated clinoptilolite
suspension (ACS) increased the urinary excretion of toxic heavy metals
without causing any harm to participants in their study.

Clinoptilolite is a natural zeolite. A zeolite is a mineral that is
used chiefly as a molecular filter and ion-exchange agent. In hsort,
it acts as an agent to remove heavy metals and toxins from the body.

The researchers found significant increases in the urinary excretion
of aluminum, antimony, arsenic, bismuth, cadmium, lead, mercury,
nickel and tin when ACS was used by participants. While the amounts
excreted among participants varied, this was not totally unexpected.

Results varied among participants, because of differences in
physiology among individuals and differing levels of compliance with
the instructions, However, all participants had positive results.

Participants took an ACS supplement for either seven or 30 days
resulting in a measurable enhancement of urinary excretion of heavy
metals in subjects. Excretion of the toxic metals continued for 14
days, and in some cases up to 21 and even 30 days. This suggests that
use of an ACS supplement for a longer time may result in removal of
sequestered toxins from various tissues.

Source: James L Flowers, Stewart A Lonky, and Erik J Deitsch. (2009).
Clinical evidence supporting the use of an activated clinoptilolite
suspension as an agent to increase urinary excretion of toxic heavy
metals. Nutrition and Dietary Supplements, 1: 11–18.
http://www.zeoliteautismstudy.com/pdf/Clinical-evid-supporting-use-activated-clinoptilolite-peer-revwd.pdf

Hard boiled eggs with ham and cheese

2010-01-07T20:25:00.001-08:00

We had extra ham from New Years so I made hard boiled eggs with ham and cheese today for dinner. I also found out some interesting things about eggs in a video. Did you know that if you blow into the end of a boiled egg that the shell practically falls off?

Go to this page to see the video and get the recipe:
http://recipes.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Hard_Boiled_Eggs_With_Ham_And_Cheese_Recipe#

Ingredients for Hard Boiled Eggs With Ham And Cheese Recipe

8 hard-boiled eggs, shelled and sliced
4 slices cooked ham, cut in thin strips
1 cup Swiss cheese, grated
1 tablespoon butter, melted
Seasonings to taste
3 cups thin white sauce

For white sauce:

1 pint milk
3 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons flour

Instructions

1. Scald 1 pint of milk.
2. Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan.
3. Add salt and flour to the saucepan and let cook for one minute, stirring constantly.
4. Slowly add the milk, stirring gently until it boils.
5. Let it boil for 3 minutes. Use this mixture as your white sauce.
6. Mix the hard boiled eggs with the white sauce.
7. Add the ham and seasonings and mix well.
8. Place in a baking or pudding dish.
9. Sprinkle on top the grated cheese.
10. Pour the melted butter on the top.
11. Bake in moderate oven for about 10 minutes until a nice brown crust is formed.

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Keeping Foods Fresh and Safe for Little Ones

2010-01-07T06:03:00.001-08:00

Innobaby LLC, the provider of innovative juvenile packaging solutions, is making things easy for the busy mom with the release of their line of SMART products for storing baby food.

Making baby food at home and from scratch is becoming the newest craze for nutrition conscious parents. Not only is it healthier for babies, it can also be made in the right quantities so it doesn't go to waste. The problem is often storage.

Innobaby's SMART products are the right size for storing baby sized quantities and controlling portion size, while helping parents separate the contents based on particular food allergies as well.

Made out of high quality and durable materials, they are dishwasher, freezer, and microwave safe, making them easy to store and clean, says Kristen Min, a co-founder of Innobaby . BPA, phthalates, lead, and PVC free means they are safe for storing food kids will be eating later.

Started in 2006, Kristen Min and Jee Kim are the founding moms of Innobaby LLC. This start-up business is a good example of how an idea and a marketing niche can build a successful enterprise. For more information go to www.innobaby.com.

Sponsoring links:

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Pickle Wrap Dip

2009-12-17T12:32:00.001-08:00

Here's a recipe for the Pickle Wrap Dip:

1 large sour cream (16 oz)

1 regular size cream cheese (thawed or at room temp)

1 package dried beef (by the lunch meat at wal mart)

3-4 large dill pickles

about 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Mix the sour cream and cream cheese together. Add the Worcestershire sauce. Cut up the dried beef into little squares. Mix into sour cream mixture. Cut up pickles into little squares and mix into sour cream mixture.

Chill in refrigerator.

Serve with crackers.

ENJOY!

Jaimie Ham

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How hungry am I?

2009-12-14T20:16:00.001-08:00

Dr . Michelle May, M.D. struggled with weight problems most of her life. She has found that diets don't work. Instead people need to make a lifestyle change, which she describes in her book Eat what you love; Love what you eat.

One tool she presents is the Hunger and Fullness Scale. It assesses your hunger and fullness levels before, during and after eating. "It will help you identify hunger cues, observe how different types and amounts of food affect you, and recognize when the urge to eat has been triggered by something other than hunger...."

The Hunger and Fullness Scale ranges from 1 to 10, with a level of 1 representing ravenous, and a level of 10 meaning you're so full that you're in pain and feel sick. The smaller numbers mean your stomach is smaller stomach; the larger numbers mean the stomach is larger.

Level 5, in the middle of the scale, equates to being satisfied and comfortable. At a 5, you cannot feel your stomach at all. It's neither empty nor full; it isn't growling or feeling stretched. This may be how your stomach feels after you've eaten a light breakfast, writes Dr. May.

Here is a description of the scale:

1 = Ravenous: a high-risk situation where you are too hungry to care what you eat.
2 = Starving
3 = Hungry
4 = Hunger pangs
5 = Satisfied: You are neither hungry nor full, but rather are content and comfortable.
6 = Full
7 = Very full
8 = Uncomfortable
9 = Stuffed
10 = Sick

If you are 5 or above, you know something other than hunger triggered your desire to eat. If you are a 4, you should either wait or eat a small amount. At 2 or 3 you should eat. Dr. May recommends you eat only enough so that you are at a level 5, where you are feeling comfortable. You can get a visual reminder of how much you need to eat by making a fist and then opening your hand. That's about the amount of food it takes to go from a level 2 to 5. If you're at a level 1, you need to exercise caution. The tendency from a level 1 (a ravenous situation) is to overeat.

Here are some maxims about eating from Dr. May.

- Eating when you are hungry helps signal to your body that food will be available when you need it and it allows your metabolism "to run on high."
- Eating small meals satisfies hunger best.
- It may take 20 to 30 minutes after eating for your body to signal the brain that you are full.

Dr. May's book is available from Amazon.com or www.AmIHungry.com

Dirty showers can cause disease

2009-12-13T20:24:00.000-08:00

Scientists have found that showering under a dirty shower heads can deliver a face full of harmful bacteria. Tests revealed nearly a third of devices harbor significant levels of a bug that causes lung disease.

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Audio Recording of Cellphone-Brain Tumor Teleclass

2009-12-13T20:05:00.001-08:00

with Devra Davis, PhD, MPH, Lloyd Morgan, BS
Joel Moskowitz, PhD, David Carpenter, MD
Now Available at www.ElectromagneticHealth.org

Please go to: http://sn.im/tkt47

Thanks for Your Interest in Hearing from Independent Experts
on This Important Public Health Issue.

Snacks That Help You Keep Those New Year's 'Eat Better' Resolutions

2009-12-10T11:46:00.001-08:00

by Renee Hewitt

It's that time of the year to make your food resolutions for 2010. Striking a balance between your love of food and your calorie count - without compromising on taste can be easier than you think thanks to Crispy Green and its line of delicious, natural and wholesome freeze-dried fruit snacks.

FruitziO are a light, sweet and crunchy snack that kids and adults can enjoy anytime, anywhere to provide the fruit they need with the taste they crave.

Available in two flavors: Strawberry FruitziO and Apples and Strawberries FruitziO and made with only the finest freeze-dried apples and strawberries - with just a hint of pure, natural sugar, FruitziO are packed with delicious fruit taste and just 100 calories.

Strawberry FruitziO and Apples and Strawberries FruitziO are available in .88-ounce moisture-free, resealable pouches. (The MSRP for FruitziO is $3.49.)

FruitziO is the perfect snack for kids, tweens and adults and the product's convenient resealable pouches, long shelf life and portability make FruitziO the ideal 'go anywhere' snack to take in the car, keep in a backpack, briefcase or luggage to enjoy on vacations, camping trips, shopping trips, a day at the beach, etc. and puts the natural goodness of fruit at your fingertips anytime.

All-natural FruitziO does not contain preservatives (including sulfides), fat, cholesterol or sodium and is peanut/tree nut free, gluten-free, dairy free and has been certified kosher by Orthodox Union (OU) and Shatz Kosher Services (SKS).

FruitziO helps you enjoy a delicious snack while avoiding the pitfalls of mindless munching and provides you with 100 calories of snacking satisfaction.

For more information about the FruitziO product line, go to www.crispygreen.com.

Sponsor links:

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Being "D-ficient" bad for the heart, bones, and rest of the body, reports the Harvard Heart Letter

2009-12-09T09:23:00.000-08:00

BOSTON -- New research suggests that having too little vitamin D, the
so-called sunshine vitamin, can contribute to heart disease, falls and
broken bones, breast cancer, prostate cancer, depression, and memory
loss, reports the December 2009 issue of the Harvard Heart Letter.
Vitamin D is best known for building and maintaining healthy bones by
helping the digestive system absorb calcium and phosphorus. But it
does much, much more.

Coronary artery disease. Calcium deposits that stiffen the arteries
are more likely to develop in people with low levels of vitamin D. In
one study, men low in vitamin D were twice as likely to develop heart
disease.

High blood pressure. Vitamin D decreases the kidneys' production of
renin, a hormone that boosts blood pressure. Several studies suggest
that low vitamin D contributes to high blood pressure, and that
getting more of the vitamin can help control blood pressure.

Statin-related muscle pain. Some people who take a
cholesterol-lowering statin stop because of muscle pain. In a study of
128 men and women with statin-related muscle pain, two-thirds of them
had low vitamin D levels. Among those who took a vitamin D supplement,
muscle pain disappeared in 90%.

Infection. Preliminary trials suggest that too little vitamin D can
leave the body prone to infection, and having enough in circulation
can help the body fight off the flu, tuberculosis, and infections of
the upper respiratory tract.

The Harvard Heart Letter notes that supplements are the simplest,
safest way to get vitamin D. Getting 800 to 1,000 IU daily from
supplements is a good goal. Ask your doctor to test your vitamin D
level, and take a supplement if it is low.

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McCord advocates lifestyle choices in book

2009-12-09T08:57:00.000-08:00

There is no 'magic' pill or fad diet for good health; personal responsibility for wise choices can help you live to 100.

Like so many things in life, the best answer to a problem is often the simplest. It is no different when it comes to health, wellness, and longevity.

Dr. Sanja Gupta of CNN advocates over the airwaves healthy lifestyle choices. Dr. Mehmet Oz is well known for simplifying the message of preventive health choices and the effects bad health choices have on our bodies. Dr. Rima Laibow supports eating natural foods and supplements as a way to prevent disease. These doctors represent a growing number of physicians and researchers who have taken a stand for better lifestyle choices for improved health and longevity.

In her new book, Living Well at One Hundred, famed biochemist and treatment specialist of non-healing and complex wounds Dr. Darlene McCord joins this medical chorus and shares pertinent information that allows for healthy lifestyle changes. The colorfully illustrated tabletop book is an easy to read reference for anyone looking to improve their stamina, and prevent and treat diseases such as diabetes and hypertension as well as increase their life's longevity.

Living Well at One Hundred begins with an honest assessment of the rise in health care spending over the past 40-years, and why bad lifestyle choices - are one of the main culprits to this increase. Dr. McCord is a strong advocate for prevention using diet, exercise and supplements as a foundation to a healthy life.

She says of preventive medicine, "The march to better health is not being led by insurance and pharmaceutical companies -- it is being led by a growing number of cutting-edge physicians, researchers, and a throng of people just like you and me."

"Over the past century, the average life expectancy has more than doubled. The extension of human longevity is one of our greatest achievements. However, in order to maintain the tremendous gains we have made, we must become partners in our own health and more actively participate in the choices that will impact it," adds McCord. "The concept of living well is about how to take charge of our everyday life circumstances. Our own longevity is actually controlled each and every day by the decisions we make. Simple choices - from the food we eat to exercise - can result in previously unsurpassed physical and emotional health."

Living Well at One Hundred is decidedly different from most 'health' books in that it encourages and explains many small steps one can take toward a healthy life. At their own pace, readers can plan their own 'journey' to wellness and health.

"The answer to health and wellness is at our fingertips every day, from the food we eat to basic choices," notes McCord. "It really isn't complex, radical diets or new medicines aren't needed."

Keep Eye Safety in Mind When Choosing Toys This Holiday

2009-12-09T08:41:00.001-08:00

Jefferson City, Missouri -- Imagine a BB gun pellet striking your child's eye with enough force to knock him to the ground. Sadly, some popular children's gifts around the holidays can cause serious eye injuries. In recognition of Safe Toys and Celebrations Month, the Missouri Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons (MoSEPS) reminds parents of the dangers that toys may pose to children's eyes and offers tips on how to choose safe toys for gift-giving.

A serious eye injury from a toy can ruin your family's holiday and, more seriously leave your child with permanent vision loss. Children receive all types of potentially unsafe presents during the holidays, including BB guns, darts, pellet guns and paintball guns.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were more than 235,000 toy-related injuries treated in U.S. emergency rooms in 2008; nearly three quarters of those injured were children under age 15.

With so many toys being recalled or having the potential to cause injuries, many parents are wondering what toys are safe. Sports equipment, a popular gift, should also include the protective eyewear. Sports-related eye injuries can cause permanent vision loss and account for about 40,000 eye injuries annually.

Tips for a safe holiday season:

- Avoid purchasing toys with sharp, protruding or projectile parts.

- Make sure children have appropriate supervision when playing with potentially hazardous toys or games that could cause injury.

- If you plan to give sports equipment, provide appropriate protective eyewear with polycarbonate lenses. Check with your local eye specialist to learn about protective gear recommended for your child's sport.

- Check labels for age recommendations and be sure to select gifts that are appropriate for a child’s age and maturity.

- Keep toys that are made for older children away from younger children.

- The branches and needles of Christmas trees can be hazardous to the eyes, so be especially careful when untying your tree. The branches can burst forward, hitting and injuring your eyes. Glass ornaments should be hung out of a child's reach to avoid potential injury.

For more information about eye safety and eye injuries, go to

www.geteyesmart.org/eyesmart/injuries/

EXPERT'S BOOK ADDS TO MOVEMENT ADVOCATING LIFESTYLE CHOICES -- NOT MEDICINE -- AS THE KEY TO GOOD HEALTH AND LONGEVITY

2009-12-09T08:17:00.000-08:00

There is no 'magic' pill or fad diet for good health; personal
responsibility for wise choices can help you live to 100.

Like so many things in life, the best answer to a problem is often the
simplest. It is no different when it comes to health, wellness, and
longevity.

Dr. Sanja Gupta of CNN advocates over the airwaves healthy lifestyle
choices. Dr. Mehmet Oz is well known for simplifying the message of
preventive health choices and the effects bad health choices have on
our bodies. Dr. Rima Laibow, healthfreedomusa.org, advocates natural
foods and supplements as a means of preventing disease. These doctors
represent a growing number of physicians and researchers who have
taken a stand for better lifestyle choices for improved health and
longevity.

In her new book, Living Well at One Hundred, famed biochemist and
treatment specialist of non-healing and complex wounds Dr. Darlene
McCord joins this medical chorus and shares pertinent information that
allows for healthy lifestyle changes. The colorfully illustrated
tabletop book is an easy to read reference for anyone looking to
improve their stamina, and prevent and treat diseases such as diabetes
and hypertension as well as increase their life's longevity.

Living Well at One Hundred begins with an honest assessment of the
rise in health care spending over the past 40-years, and why bad
lifestyle choices - are one of the main culprits to this increase.
Dr. McCord is a strong advocate for prevention using diet, exercise
and supplements as a foundation to a healthy life.

She says of preventive medicine, "The march to better health is not
being led by insurance and pharmaceutical companies—it is being led by
a growing number of cutting-edge physicians, researchers, and a throng
of people just like you and me."

"Over the past century, the average life expectancy has more than
doubled. The extension of human longevity is one of our greatest
achievements. However, in order to maintain the tremendous gains we
have made, we must become partners in our own health and more actively
participate in the choices that will impact it," adds McCord. "The
concept of living well is about how to take charge of our everyday
life circumstances. Our own longevity is actually controlled each and
every day by the decisions we make. Simple choices - from the food we
eat to exercise - can result in previously unsurpassed physical and
emotional health."

Living Well at One Hundred is decidedly different from most 'health'
books in that it encourages and explains many small steps one can take
toward a healthy life. At their own pace, readers can plan their own
'journey' to wellness and health.

"The answer to health and wellness is at our fingertips every day,
from the food we eat to basic choices," notes McCord. "It really isn't
complex, radical diets or new medicines aren't needed."

New Take on Healthful and Local

2009-12-05T11:36:00.001-08:00

MINNEAPOLIS (Dec. 2, 2009) -- This holiday season through a truly distinct online photo essay, natural care products e-commerce site www.WedgeWorldWide.coop taps residents of its neighborhood to show - not just tell - the myriad healthful and social benefits of its Earth-friendly goods.

To view the distinct catalog and to order, visit www.WedgeWorldWide.coop. It's the online retail site for Minneapolis-based The Wedge Co-op, the nation's largest single store, consumer-owned, natural food and products cooperative in the United States. Wedge Worldwide offers hundreds of natural health and lifestyle products to shoppers nationwide.

The photo essay features nine Twin Cities' residents in 12 distinct settings demonstrating the plethora of natural personal care products and housewares the Web site purveys. All models donated their time and service to support and showcase The Wedge's goods to a national audience.

Think, nutcrackers eating pecans. A holiday season filled with peppermint bliss on your body. Cozy up with your gingerbread man. Learn the true meaning of gathering under the mistletoe. Discover what "pamper me" really entails.

"Wedge Worldwide lets shoppers throughout the country have direct access to the ecologically sound general merchandise and personal care products local Wedge Co-op shoppers love,' said Jessie Jacobson, coordinator or Wedge Worldwide. "This holiday season, we asked, 'how can we illustrate our values at the Wedge on our retail site to the rest of the nation?'

"So we asked community members to help," Jacobson continued. "In doing so, the photos are unique in concept, as well as in their construction, and truly represent the eclectic tastes and artistic talents of our neighborhood."

About Wedge Co-op
The Wedge Co-op is a natural and organic food cooperative with more than 14,000 member-owners who live throughout the metro area. Founded in 1974, the Wedge has grown to become the largest single store, consumer-owned, natural food cooperative in the United States. The co-op is dedicated to offering the freshest, highest-quality natural and organic food and the most friendly, informed staff of any grocer.

Sponsor: Finally, a Weight-Loss Solution You Can Live With! http://rediscoveryourlife.com/go

Bliss' Rocky Mountain Chili

2009-12-05T11:18:00.001-08:00

By Bliss Tew

1 pound of ground turkey (or beef if preferred, but try the turkey
you'll be surprised)
2 medium sized onions
1 jalepeneo pepper
2 cloves of garlic
1 Table spoon Chili powder
1/8 teaspoon powdered Cheyanne pepper
1 Tablespoon brown malasses
1 Tablespoon of powdered choclate (like for cocoa)
1 8-ounce can of chili beans
2 16-ounce cans of diced tomatoes
1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
1 fresh green pepper

In a fry pan, with some olive oil to cover the pan bottom, on about a
medium heat, crumble the ground turkey and fry until cooked.

In a large stew pot, pour a bit of olive oil in the bottom and coat
the bottom of pan. Chop onions and crush the garlic and throw into pan
on warm. Add chopped jalepeno pepper, Chili powder, Cheyanne pepper,
brown malasses, cocoa powder. Stir up good. Add a cup of water. Stir.
Add cans of diced tomatoes including their liquid. stir. Add can of
Tomato sauce. Keep well stired and increase heat to medium until
brought to a boil, then reduce heat to warm and stir occasionally.
After 45-minutes, add diced green pepper, drained kidney beans, and
cooked meat. Stir occasionally and cook another 15 or twenty minutes.

Will make a big pot for the weekend. Once in your bowl you may want to
add a dolop of sour cream or some shredded chedder cheese if you want
to put on some pounds and inches.

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Potatoes and beef

2009-12-05T11:16:00.001-08:00

By Kristina Martinez

Ingredients: potatoes, salt, oil, cooked beef

First, cut the potatoes in cubes. Put some oil in the pan. When the
oil is heated, put the cubed potatoes in the pan. Also, put some salt.
Fry 3 minutes, then put some water in pan ( the volume of water is
equally to the height of potatoes). After 3 minutes, put the beef in
pan, Because the beef has already been cooked, you just need 3 more
minutes. Yummy dish and quick to make.

Finally, a Weight-Loss Solution You Can Live With!
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Use the winter months to get your garage organized

2009-11-24T06:07:00.001-08:00

Here is a link to some tips about garage organization from remodeling
contractor Danny Lipford, host of television's Today's Homeowner with
Danny Lipford (R) and longtime home improvement expert for The Weather
Channel. If your garage is like mine, it is disorganized and a
catchall for everything that doesn't have a place inside the house.

These tips may help you get your garage in order.

http://www.weather.com/partnerships/homedepot/garage-organization.html

Healthy Feet Make the Best Dancing Feet

2009-11-20T08:16:00.001-08:00

CHICAGO - November 20, 2009 - Being 'light on your feet' when dancing
is not entirely true; dancing the night away can take a toll on feet
and ankles. Both professional and amateur dancers can suffer foot
injuries that can stop the show, as witnessed this season on the
popular reality-television show, Dancing with the Stars.
According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, the most
common types of dance-related foot and ankle problems are overuse
injuries, which occur due to the repetitive movements in dance. "Over
50 percent of dance injuries occur in the foot and ankle. The severity
of the damage is determined by a patient's age, strength and
flexibility and the type of shoes worn when dancing," Orlando-area
foot and ankle surgeon Amber Shane, DPM, FACFAS, said.
Other common types of injuries related to dancing can include:
-stress fractures (hairline breaks in the bone) from repeated jumping
and landing
-foot neuromas (thickening/irritation of the nerves in the ball of the
foot) resulting from repetitive pivoting
-shin splints (pain and swelling in the front of the lower legs) which
can be aggravated by recurring activities
-tendonitis (inflammation of the tendons in the foot) from over exertion
-corns, calluses or blisters - all painful skin irritations resulting
from repeated rubbing of the skin on the feet.
With dancing being repetitively hard on the lower extremities, how can
dancers of any level protect their feet and ankles? "The best defense
to injury is prevention. Dancers should wear appropriate shoes to
properly support their feet and ankles as well as perform dance moves
with their individual skill levels in mind," Dr. Shane said
When an injury does occur, prompt medical attention by a foot and
ankle surgeon can make all the difference in a proper rehabilitation.
"Most dance injuries can be treated with conservative care as long as
they are addressed early and not ignored," Dr. Shane adds. "Many
people dispel foot pain if they can walk on the foot, but it is
important to remember it is possible to walk on a seriously injured
foot. Plus, common injuries, if left untreated, may require surgical
intervention to ensure proper healing."
For more information on common foot and ankle injuries or to find a
foot and ankle surgeon near you, visit FootPhysicians.com.

About ACFAS
The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons is a professional
society of more than 6,000 foot and ankle surgeons. Founded in 1942,
the College's mission is to promote research and provide continuing
education for the foot and ankle surgical specialty, and to educate
the general public on foot health and conditions of the foot and ankle
through its consumer Web site, http://FootPhysicians.com.

Children's Employee Walks Off 100 Pounds

2009-10-12T19:19:00.001-07:00

Although she had been struggling with her weight for years, attending
the Presidential Inauguration in January was the wake up call Paula
Hickman, Manager, Physician Data Systems, needed to make some changes.
She attended this historic event with her daughter, but due to limited
transportation, it required miles of walking for both of them. Paula
found herself gasping for air, and her daughter, Nicole, became
concerned for her mother's health.
While President Obama took his oath, Paula made her own inspiring
pledge to get healthy this year. Since January, Paula has lost 100
pounds and feels so much better. "My life has changed in many positive
ways, including feeling better, achieving a sense of accomplishment
and confidence, decreasing my medications and becoming physically
fit," she said.
Paula credits Children's for being an employer that cares about the
health of its employees and for providing so many support tools. She
has been an advocate of Strong4Life from the beginning and has
participated in You4Life and the Get Moving Challenges. Wearing the
Actiped pedometer has been a valuable tool for Paula, who also signed
up for You4Life's 90 Day Challenge. She wears the pedometer
everywhere, and the visual aid holds her accountable for her healthy
step goals.
Strong4Life Online <https://strong4life.livepurewellness.com> has also
been a vital component to Paula's wellness journey. She uses the food,
activity and pedometer logs daily and reviews the progress reports to
monitor her wellness goals. Inputting her food intake provides an
immediate update on how many calories and how much fat she is
consuming and helps her with meal planning.
Paula takes advantage of Children's on-site exercise classes and
continues to strive for 10,000 steps a day. She now plans walking
trips for the weekends and surrounds herself with others wanting to
meet the same wellness goals. Paula credits her family, friends and
co-workers, who have provided positive support throughout her wellness
journey.
After walking seven miles at Stone Mountain Park recently, Paula's
daughter expressed how proud she was of her mother and how she
couldn't believe it was the same person who was struggling in January.
When motivating others to be healthy, Paula quotes medical expert and
author Dr. Oz, "Don't be tolerant of being a percent of who you can
be. Be 90 percent of who you can be. We can all get there."

Children of single mums more likely to smoke

2009-09-26T21:08:00.001-07:00

by Chris Garrington

Research by a team at the University of Essex has shown that the
children of single mothers are considerably more likely to smoke as
young adults than children who are brought up by both parents.

The research carried out by Professor Stephen Jenkins, Professor Marco
Francesconi and Dr Thomas Siedler from the university's Institute for
Social and Economic Research reinforces the views of medical
professionals as well as psychologists that growing up in a family
headed by a lone mother may raise an individual's stress levels and
lower their self esteem with these factors, in turn, leading to a
greater chance of smoking.

Although the research was based entirely on data from Germany, the
findings are likely to be relevant for other countries including the
UK. They also believe there are clear implications for policy makers,
suggesting that policies aimed at reducing tobacco consumption may be
more effective if they acknowledge the long-term influence that
childhood family disruption may have so-called "risky behaviours"
later on in life.

The team used the German Socio-Economic Panel to research the lives of
about 2,500 young adults across a 22 year-period. They also controlled
for the socio-economic background of people by comparing those who
grew up in a family from the former West and East Germany (when
Germany was divided) and a third group of young adults living in West
Germany who had a parent from overseas or 'Guestworker'.

About 20 percent of individuals in the West German sample, 11 percent
in the Guestworker sample, and more than 30 percent in the East German
sample, lived with a lone mother during childhood. In the West German
sample 46 percent of young adults who lived with a lone mother during
childhood smoked, compared with 32 percent from those who lived with
two parents. For the East German sample, the corresponding proportions
were 53 percent and 39 percent; for the Guestworker sample, 55 percent
and 37 percent.

Respondents were not only asked if they smoked but whether they smoked
more than ten or twenty cigarettes a day. It was also noted whether
they had started by the age of 16 or the age of 21. The effects were
greater for those children whose mother was divorced rather than
simply unmarried or where a father had died.

Living with a lone mother is associated with an 8 percentage point
increase in the case of the West German sample, and a 16 percentage
point increase in the case of the other two samples.

Similar positive associations emerged for both smoking 10+ cigarettes
a day and smoking 20+ cigarettes a day. Likewise, living with an
unmarried mother during childhood is associated with an increased
probability of starting smoking either by age 16 or by age 21.

These results are robust to different estimation methods and to the
possibility that family structure and smoking share a mutual
association with some unmeasured true causal factor (e.g., family
stress).

The rise in smoking prevalence associated with a 5 percent increase in
the proportion of individuals from lone mother families would be
offset were the proportion of mothers smoking also to decrease by 2.3
percent. Declines in maternal smoking prevalence of this magnitude
would be remarkable according to other studies for Germany.

Commenting on the findings from the research, Professor Francesconi
said: 'Our research indicates that individuals who experience lone
motherhood during childhood are more likely to smoke, and hence are at
greater risk of poor health. This finding is clear cut even when we
control for a wide range of factors and regardless of a young adult's
background. Policies aimed at reducing tobacco consumption may be more
effective if they acknowledge the long-term influence that childhood
family disruption may have on later life risky behaviours.'

Getting an edge on a very common youth sport injury

2009-09-25T13:16:00.001-07:00

By Christina Camilli-Whisenhunt

- U-M researchers to focus on components of prevention training
programs that reduce ACL injury risk.
- New study will measure joint movements and the force of movements
performed on the athletic field.
- Results hope to give young athletes tools needed to play sports more
safely and improve performance.

Watch the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwHT_GLNAvI

Research at the Bone & Joint Injury Prevention & Rehabilitation Center
(the Center) is moving a step closer to solving a problem that affects
at least 400,000 young athletes every year and causes them to sit on
the sideline for months.

Injuries to the knee anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)—one of four
major ligaments in the knee—is one of the most common youth sport
injuries, and the injury frequency has been steadily climbing over the
last decade. With kids becoming increasing active and competitive,
the rate of ACL injury has dramatically risen. These injuries also
have a steep price—nearly 70 percent of ACL injuries will lead to an
early onset of painful osteoarthritis.

The new study, led by Center members and Kinesiology Professors Riann
Palmieri-Smith and Scott McLean, will determine which components of
current ACL prevention training programs work best to reduce injuries.

Mclean noted this study is a critical step to help prevent ACL
injuries and osteoarthritis—a significant long-term consequence of
tearing the ACL. Osteoarthritis can reduce quality of life, and it is
well known that 5-14 years after an ACL tear, osteoarthritis can
develop. Within the coming decades we may have many young men, and in
particular young women, requiring knee replacements by the time they
are in their 30s.

Current ACL prevention programs have athletes training three times per
week at 90 minutes per session. Palmieri-Smith said, "While these
programs are showing significant promise, what we tend to see are kids
getting overwhelmed because these programs are extra training on top
of what they are already doing. We see a lot of kids drop these
training programs completely, because they think they are too much
work and cut into their practice time."

The study's main focus is to uncover the key components from the
typical 90-minute prevention program that reduce the risk of injury.
To test any type of prevention program, you first have to know if it
improves something. To do this, Palmieri-Smith and McLean are
bringing in 120 females between the ages of 10 and 18 to the Center's
lab. They will measure their joint movements and forces typically
performed on the athletic field, such as landing on one leg or
pivoting to the side.

Once all subjects are pre-tested, they will be placed into one of four
different, six-week prevention training programs: Core stability and
balance, plyometrics, neuromuscular training, or a control group. At
the end of the six-week program, the subjects will come back to the
lab and U-M researchers will assess the differences between movements
performed before the training program and compare them to the
movements after the training. They will evaluate the success of each
of the training program components (including the control group) in
being able to modify otherwise hazardous landing maneuvers.

McLean says there are known movements that increase ACL injury—like
landing with a knee too straight or even landing knocked-knee. He and
his colleagues want to find out if any one of the isolated components
of current ACL training will successfully modify an at-risk movement,
for example, the way a person lands—with knees more bent or aligned
straight versus knock-kneed. Once the team analyzes all the data,
they hope to come up with an improved and far more efficient
prevention program that coaches, parents, and kids will be more
inclined to incorporate into an athletic routine.

U-M researchers anticipate that by changing the way people move and by
making them more aware of how their bodies move, ACL injuries will
finally begin to decline. Palmieri-Smith added, "We hope to give
young athletes the tools needed to play their sport safer and at the
same time improve their performance in both strength and speed on the
field."

About the Center
The University of Michigan Bone & Joint Injury Prevention &
Rehabilitation Center is a collaborative effort between the Medical
School, the College of Engineering, the School of Kinesiology and the
School of Public Health. The Center's mission is to excel in the
creation of new knowledge in all areas relevant to the prevention,
treatment, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injury and arthritis.
The Center is dedicated to conduct mission-driven research, train the
next generation of multi-disciplinary researchers, provide leadership
for local, national, and international collaborations and
partnerships, promote the effective translation, use, and exchange of
knowledge and develop organizational excellence.

Mountain Trek uses hiking as a way to become fit

2009-09-25T12:38:00.001-07:00

By Janice Poloway

Asheville, North Carolina – Mountain Trek has responded to the growing
demand for sensible weight loss and fitness programs as the key for
prevention of obesity. The highly successful FitPath Program will be
offered again in November 2009, outside of Asheville, North Carolina.
FitPath is a comprehensive fitness and weight loss program utilizing
hiking as the main fitness component accompanied by healthy calorie
controlled food, daily detox practices and lifestyle education
classes. Recent studies indicate that lack of physical activity and
unhealthy eating habits as well as unmitigated stress as contributing
factors to the rising trend in obesity.
Mountain Trek offers an opportunity for people to immerse themselves
in a boot camp atmosphere where hard work is rewarded by substantial
weight loss. "Our philosophy at Mountain Trek is to be a catalyst for
healthy change in people's lives," says Jeff Krueger, resident
Dietitian and Manager of Mountain Trek's North Carolina Program.
"While most Guests come for weight loss, they leave with lifestyle
education on nutrition, fitness and stress management. We believe this
to be the backbone for creating lasting change in people's lives,"
continues Krueger.
Operating since 1991 in a little known pristine mountain area called
the Kootenays in British Columbia, Canada; Mountain Trek has expanded
its operations to include satellites in North Carolina as well as
Costa Rica. "We have experienced continued interest in our Program as
for some, the economic environment has provided them the luxury of
time to focus on their health which can easily slip away given the
demands of the work world," continues Krueger. "What we hope for our
Guests is the opportunity to invest in themselves for a change, to
destress, and feel more vital and more energy during their visit with
us. It's a simple but intense Program that works," says Krueger.
It's this no-nonsense approach to this fitness and weight loss program
that keep Guests returning for "tune-ups' years later. "Our repeat
clientele is about 30% which shows our Guests value what we have to
offer and our Program provides them with the results they are looking
for," ends Krueger.

Mountain Trek offers its fitness and weight loss program in Asheville,
North Carolina from November 7- December 5, 2009. Call 1-800-661-5161
for Program details and prices.
Mountain Trek
Founded in 1991 as Mountain Trek Fitness and Health Spa, Mountain Trek
offers a highly successful fitness and weight loss program called
FitPath. Working year-round from locations in the mountains of Canada,
Costa Rica, and North Carolina; Mountain Trek's trained Guides
interact one-on-one with Guests to raise metabolism, burn fat, and
improve cardiovascular fitness. With a Staff to Guest ratio of 2-1,
Mountain Trek's Staff is committed to guiding Guests towards an
integrated path of vitality and health. For more information visit
hiking.com.

Daryl Returns to Television with "Brothers"

2009-09-25T12:30:00.001-07:00

Paralyzed African-American Actor Gives Hope to Others

September 25, 2009, Short Hills, N.J.--As the family, friends and fans
of Christopher Reeve commemorate the late star's 57th birthday today,
another disabled actor takes a giant step forward in showing
America—and the world—that there is life after paralysis. Tonight,
Daryl "Chill" Mitchell, an ambassador for the Christopher & Dana Reeve
Foundation and its Paralysis Resource Center (PRC), will take center
stage on the premiere of FOX's "Brothers," alongside Michael Strahan,
CCH Pounder and Carl Weathers. The series will premiere in a special
hour-long telecast at 8/7 Central tonight.
Born in the Bronx, raised in Long Island, N.Y. and now a resident of
Atlanta, Ga., Mitchell first came to the public's attention as a
member of the three-man rap group Groove B Chill. A music video made
to accompany the group's new album quickly led to an acting career,
beginning with the feature film "House Party," and later on, among
others, "Galaxy Quest" and "Lucky Numbers," as well as "The Fresh
Prince of Bel Air," "Law & Order," and as a series regular on "The
John Larroquette Show," "Ed" and "Veronica's Closet." In November
2001, Mitchell was involved in a motorcycle accident, which left him a
paraplegic and paralyzed from the waist down.
"If there's anything Chris Reeve taught me, it's that you can't give
up," said Mitchell. "When I was on NBC's 'Ed,' my character used to
say 'Roll or Fold.' That's exactly what I hope to show others with
paralysis, not just through this show, but through my work with the
Foundation and the PRC.

Daryl Mitchell

"There are a disproportionate number of African-Americans living with
paralysis, as the Foundation's recent survey showed; about 17 percent
when compared to a little over 12 percent of the American population
that's African-American. More than anything, I want them to know that
they need to keep going, and I've personally experienced how the PRC
can help you do that."
"We're extremely proud of Chill's success," said Joe Canose, Vice
President, Quality of Life for the Christopher & Dana Reeve
Foundation. "He's a great example and role model to those who live
with paralysis. When people like Chill succeed despite tremendous
odds, it brings a tremendous message of hope to all of us, but
especially to those who really need it."
Located in Short Hills, N.J. and Westlake Village, Calif., the
Paralysis Resource Center (PRC) is a program of the Christopher & Dana
Reeve Foundation that offers resources on spinal cord injury,
paralysis and mobility-related disabilities. The PRC's mission is to
be a comprehensive, national source of information for people living
with paralysis and their caregivers to promote health, foster
involvement in the community and improve quality of life. It provides
quality information on paralysis in a variety of ways; through
highly-trained Information Specialists who can be contacted via
telephone at 800-539-7309 or e-mail; through in-person visits to its
offices; or through its National Clearinghouse Library of
paralysis-related publications available for free loan through
interlibrary loan programs. For more information, please visit
www.paralysis.org.

Eat What You Love, Love What You Eat

2009-09-25T11:27:00.001-07:00

How to Break Your Eat-Repent-Repeat Cycle

By Michelle May, M.D.

YES, YOU LITERALLY CAN HAVE YOUR CAKE, AND EAT IT TOO!
--New book is the antidote to ineffective eating, without sacrificing
the food you love

Many of us that diet to shed pounds find ourselves trapped in an
"eat-repent-repeat" cycle—we deprive ourselves, give in to our
cravings, feel guilty, and return to prior habits.

Michelle May, M.D., creator of Am I Hungry?® mindful eating program,
has written Eat What You Love, Love What You Eat: How to Break Your
Eat-Repent-Repeat Cycle, revealing an alternative to yo-yo dieting
that does not require weighing and measuring food, counting points, or
eating pre-packaged meals. Instead, May empowers readers to eat
fearlessly, using their natural cues of hunger and fullness to guide
them.

May combines her background in medicine and psychology with her own
personal struggles with food and weight, having been a self-proclaimed
"yo-yo dieter" for twenty years. After developing a healthy, balanced
relationship with food, May, an award-winning author and inspirational
speaker, spent the last ten years teaching individuals to take charge
of the their lives and learn to resolve mindless and emotional eating.

"Try as we might, diets simply do not work long-term," says May. "Most
diet plans lead to guilt-driven eating, followed by punishment-laden
exercise. But we each have the ability to manage our weight
effortlessly using our internal cues of hunger and fullness. You
really can eat what you love—there are no good or bad foods. Exercise
is not used to earn the right to eat, but a means to achieve a
vibrant, healthy lifestyle."

Using 'uncommon' sense and an integrative approach to healthy living,
May teaches readers how to:

• Rediscover when, what, and how much to eat without restrictive rules
• Resolve mindless and emotional eating
• Meet their needs without using food to cope, distract, or avoid issues
• Experience the pleasure of eating the foods they love without guilt
or bingeing
• Build a fun fitness program that boosts metabolism and increases energy
• Learn the truth about nutrition without confusing, arbitrary rules
• Prepare delicious, nutritious meals using simple recipes

"The problem with yoyo dieting is that it is a constant struggle that
eats away at our time, energy, and self-esteem. Eat What You Love
isn't about what to eat; it is about why we eat in the first place.
Ultimately, it is not about being good, it's about feeling good," adds
May.

Author Background

Michelle May, M.D. is a recovered yoyo dieter and the founder of the
Am I Hungry?® Mindful Eating Program which received the Excellence in
Patient Education Innovation Award. She is the award-winning author of
Am I Hungry? What to Do When Diets Don't Work. Her newest book, Eat
What You Love, Love What You Eat: How to Break the Eat-Repent-Repeat
Cycle will be available in October 2009. She holds an M.D. from the
University of Arizona College of Medicine, and a B.S. in Psychology
from Arizona State University.

May has trained and licensed over 150 health professionals to
facilitate Am I Hungry?® Workshops worldwide. She has been featured on
the Discovery Health Channel and Oprah and Friends with Dr. Mehmet Oz
and quoted in Body+Soul, Fitness, Parents, Self, USA Weekend, US News
World Report, Vim Vigor, and WebMD. Her personal success story was
published in Chicken Soup for the Dieter's Soul. Dr. May's shares her
compelling message and constructive approach with audiences around the
country, conducts corporate weight management workshops, and advises
numerous organizations about promoting healthy lifestyles.
May must practice what she preaches in order to balance her personal
and professional life while maintaining her own optimal health. She
cherishes her relationships with her two teenagers, Tyler and Elyse,
and regularly enjoys yoga and hiking near her home in Phoenix,
Arizona. She and her husband Owen, a professional chef, share a
passion for gourmet and healthful cooking, recipe development, wine
tasting, and traveling.
To learn more about mindful eating, or to pre-order Eat What You Love,
Love What You Eat: How to Break the Eat-Repent-Repeat Cycle, please
visit www.AmIHungry.com .

Read the reviews

2009-09-15T06:39:00.001-07:00

I just read a press release published verbatim in Yahoo news about
Vacation to Go, "How To Book a Luxury Cruise at a Huge Discount." I
thought, "Too good to be true," so I went to Epinions.com, which
carries consumer comments about products and services. The reviews on
Vacation to Go are mixed. My advice before getting locked into any
contract is read the reviews. And always "buyer beware."

Spiritual wellness comes from following the conscience

2009-07-09T08:47:00.001-07:00

The biggest human problem, according to psychiatrist Dr. N.S. Xavier,
is people not living by conscience.

We can use real conscience to make good choices in handling needs like
power, pleasure, esteem and meaning. Much of the conflicts within,
between and among individuals and groups including terrorism and wars
are because of not using conscience.

In his new book Fulfillment Using Real Conscience: Practical Guide for
Psychological and Spiritual Wellness, Dr. N.S. Xavier says we can
promote peace and well-being if people understand the difference
between conscience and superego and use conscience as the master
guide.

Fulfillment Using Real Conscience: Practical Guide for Psychological
and Spiritual Wellness is available on major online bookselling sites,
www.authorhouse.com and through regular bookstores.

Sponsored links:
Check out www.rewindyourclock.net.
If you want more information go to www.melaniefisher.info.