Friday, March 18, 2011

Elephant and itises

(-itis: Greek derived suffix meaning inflammation)

Inflammation from head to toe.  Front to back.  Inside and out.  I feel like an elephant is trying to fit inside my human shell.

A cute one though:

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="480" caption="via Cake Wrekcs"][/caption]
My hair feels like that too! Electrocuted scanty tufts!

Who would've thought my favorite picture ever on Cake Wrecks would've been of an elephant?

Some medicines, insurance rejections, and not carefully reading food labels have rendered me mentally and physically wrought.  As upset and overwhelmed as I am, I will not let it drag me down after all the progress I've made.  The thoughts that go through one's heads while you're experiencing pain are usually not reality based and can drag you down.  I know that the feeling of despair and defeat are not based on the facts, but on the current and ephemeral feelings of frustration.  Perspective is key.

My plea and reminder to all those who are sick and tired and being sick and tired is to remember to not be hard on yourself for not being able to do more, for not cleaning those last few pots leaving a food smell, and for having to stay in and watch yet another movie at home. Turn on a few candles, sit down, take naps, rest well, and another run of good days eventually comes around.

Do not punish yourself for not sticking to the diet 100% and if other people scold you for it, you tell THEM to not eat cookies for a whole year and watch them suck at it.  However, don't give in to more no-no foods just because you've had it with the rice cakes.  Hang tight to the friends and family that support you and put aside the ones that don't for a little while.  Do not resent the things you cannot do and the healthy people who do not relate to you anymore.  And do not feel the need to make others understand what you are going through (unless they ask).  They still care about you just as much even if they don't really get it.   Mostly, stop trying to explain to yourself why you should be washing the car , re-tiling the kitchen, and hitting the gym.

Do relax while you wait for the worse to past and start your game plan on how to carry on stronger the next go round of health you have.  The easier you are on your body, the sooner you will feel better.  Do remember to wear something cute and put some color on your face even if you're stuck home.  And do take the down time to think and do something for the other people who have it rough too like a faithful caretaker, a friend who sticks to you when you're bummy, a congregation member who's ill, or the families in Japan.  Being chronically ill does not change you're relevancy in being there for others.

Learn the drill cycle and follow through. (Insert smiley face emoticon here).

And for God's sake, if you're allergic to gluten, stop looking at cake websites unless you have the energy and $60 to buy the supplies and ingredients for a wheat free, yeast free, sugar free, night-shade free vegetable, cake.


Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Spice Girl

Some days I have great days and suddenly plummet out of nowhere.   Some days I wake up a wreck and in three hours I take over the world.  Usually, I take on the day a few hours at a time, not a day at a time, like the old proverb says. Anyone else? Anyone?

Here are some inexpensive ways to keep the body fighting all types of junk all day long, help stave off coffee urges, reduce appetite, keep from kicking innocent bystanders, and soothe joint pain and inflammation. The health benefits are listed for awareness of what aids you're receiving in the short and long-term care. If you click on the subject link you get the full stories and any warnings that may follow along.  After all, too much of a good thing, yada yada...

These easy-to-find, easy-to-apply homemade remedy tips wind-me up for another go and help endure work days that render me a clockwatcher:

Ginger


I just drop some ground ginger into filtered water, heat, and drink; adding honey on days I can tolerate sugars.

Ovarian Cancer Treatment
Ginger may be powerful weapon in the treatment of ovarian cancer. A study conducted at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that ginger powder induces cell death in all ovarian cancer cells to which it was applied.

Colon Cancer Prevention
A study at the University of Minnesota found that ginger may slow the growth of colorectal cancer cells.

Morning Sickness
A review of several studies has concluded that ginger is just as effective as vitamin B6 in the treatment of morning sickness.

Motion Sickness Remedy
Ginger has been shown to be an effective remedy for the nausea associated with motion sickness.

Reduces Pain and Inflammation
One study showed that ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and is a powerful natural painkiller.


Heartburn Relief
Ginger has long been used as a natural heartburn remedy. It is most often taken in the form of tea for this purpose.

Cold and Flu Prevention and Treatment
Ginger has long been used as a natural treatment for colds and the flu. Many people also find ginger to be helpful in the case of stomach flus or food poisoning, which is not surprising given the positive effects ginger has upon the digestive tract.

Migraine Relief
Research has shown that ginger may provide migraine relief due to its ability to stop prostaglandins from causing pain and inflammation in blood vessels.


Menstrual Cramp Relief
In Chinese medicine, ginger tea with brown sugar is used in the treatment of menstrual cramps.


Prevention of Diabetic Nephropathy
A study done on diabetic rats found that those rats given ginger had a reduced incidence of diabetic nephropathy (kidney damage).

Turmeric


Yay for bulleted lists.  This one goes in every food possible, but also in the form of tea as described with the ginger.  Doesn't smell as great but tastes very neutral.  Has similar properties to Tylenol and aspirin. Yes, it really works.


1. It is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent, useful in disinfecting cuts and burns.

2. When combined with cauliflower, it has shown to prevent prostate cancer and stop the growth of existing prostate cancer.

3. Prevented breast cancer from spreading to the lungs in mice.

4. May prevent melanoma and cause existing melanoma cells to commit suicide.

5. Reduces the risk of childhood leukemia.

6. Is a natural liver detoxifier.

7. May prevent and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease by removing amyloyd plaque buildup in the brain.

8. May prevent metastases from occurring in many different forms of cancer.

9. It is a potent natural anti-inflammatory that works as well as many anti-inflammatory drugs but without the side effects.

10. Has shown promise in slowing the progression of multiple sclerosis in mice.

11. Is a natural painkiller and cox-2 inhibitor.

12. May aid in fat metabolism and help in weight management.

13. Has long been used in Chinese medicine as a treatment for depression.

14. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it is a natural treatment for arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

15. Boosts the effects of chemo drug paclitaxel and reduces its side effects.

16. Promising studies are underway on the effects of turmeric on pancreatic cancer.

17. Studies are ongoing in the positive effects of turmeric on multiple myeloma.

18. Has been shown to stop the growth of new blood vessels in tumors.

19. Speeds up wound healing and assists in remodeling of damaged skin. Great for people who workout too.

20. May help in the treatment of psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions. Some hair loss or thinning may be inflammatory.

Cinnamon


Anything sweet I will have gets cinnamon.  Oatmeal, smoothies, shakes, etc .  I've never felt immediate relief from this one like I do from all the other ones listed here, but whatever is healthy and tastes good is worth including.

Studies have shown that just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon per day can lower LDL cholesterol.

Several studies suggest that cinnamon may have a regulatory effect on blood sugar, making it especially beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes. Or just a good insulin regulator.

In some studies, cinnamon has shown an amazing ability to stop medication-resistant yeast infections. Candidiasis (yeast) is one of the root causes of some lupus cases (like mine) and many cancer, (Aside from having an allergy to it). Most Americans probably have it to some degree (especially if you take medications and/or birth control) and may not know it because conventional medicine doesn't offer to find this. Click here for the endless list of symptoms, including fatigue, sinus problems, irritability, poor memory, etc.

In a study published by researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Maryland, cinnamon reduced the proliferation of leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells.

It has an anti-clotting effect on the blood.

In a study at Copenhagen University, patients given half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder combined with one tablespoon of honey every morning before breakfast had significant relief in arthritis pain after one week and could walk without pain within one month.

When added to food, it inhibits bacterial growth and food spoilage, making it a natural food preservative.

One study found that smelling cinnamon boosts cognitive function and memory.

Researchers at Kansas State University found that cinnamon fights the E. coli bacteria in unpasteurized juices.

It is a great source of manganese, fiber, iron, and calcium.

Allspice


One of my new favorite is Allspice with Ginger. Allspice is not a combination of spices like I originally thought. It's the actual specimen that resembles a variety of spices like cinnamon and cloves. Circulation feels great after one cup of hot Allspice tea.



























Traditional Usage:
- Analgesic
- Antibacterial
- Antifungal
- Antioxidant
- Colic, Stomach Upset
- Colds, Flu and Bronchitis
- Corns
- Diarrhea
- Digestive Disorders
- Flatulence
- Heart Health Maintenance
- Indigestion
- Menstrual Health Maintenance
- Neuralgia
- Respiratory Health Maintenance
- Rheumatism
- Vascular Disorders


Overview:
Allspice, Pimenta dioica(L.) Merrill [Fam. Myrtaceae], also known as pimento, Jamaica pepper and clove pepper, is an evergreen tree found in South America, Mexico and the West Indies. The unripe berry, which smells and tastes like a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, is used primarily as a food and medicinal flavouring agent. Allspice is used in folk medicine for treating many different conditions including: colic, infantile diarrhea, cholera infantum, bleeding lungs, painful menstruation, chilblains, nausea, chills, flatulence, corns, colds, dyspepsia, neuralgia, and rheumatism. However, there are no clinical studies to back up these claims. The herb is considered to be a stimulant, carminative (for treating gas), anodyne (a pain-relieving medicine milder than an analgesic), and antioxidant, bactericidal, fungicidal, and stomachic. Dr. James Duke in The Green Pharmacy refers to allspice as a tropical herb with a very complex aroma that is useful for treating indigestion. Animal studies with the total aqueous extract of allspice given by intravenous (i.v.) administration have shown that it reduces high vascular pressure (has hypotensive activity) and has a central nervous system (CNS) depressant effect. Interestingly, the hypotensive effect of identical doses (100 mg/kg) of the aqueous extract (95% decrease) was significantly greater (P < 0.05) than the effect of the ethanolic extract (67% decrease). The researchers also noted that there were no significant changes in the heart rate and no abnormalities were observed in the EKG. Another study using intraperitoneal administration of different extracts of allspice to normal and hypertensive rats caused a depression of the central nervous system (CNS) in a dose-dependent manner. Analgesic and hypothermic effects were also observed. Again, the total aqueous extract was more effective than the ethanolic extract. It was noted that the extract caused peritoneal irritation that may only partially explain the depressive effect over the CNS. 

 

Peppermint Oil


A rouge addition, for herbs are just as good as spices, but this one keeps me going at work when I cannot focus; whether it be pain, negative attitudes emanating in the office, brain fog, boring-ness, restlessness, need coffee-ness. It's amazing how it has a similar effect as Aderrall, without thinking you're Superman snorting lines. I just add two drops to a water bottle or something actually dab a teeny bit under the nose to help inhale it.

Peppermint essential oil is a fantastic essential oil with a sharp, invigorating and very familiar scent especially around the winter holidays. Historically, the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans used it and it's one of the oldest essential oils still in use. Most aromatherapy experts call peppermint essential oil a "must have" due to its ability to ease headaches, help with sleepiness and soothe digestive problems.

Helps with Nausea and Digestive Issues

To ease nausea and other digestive problems, place a single drop of peppermint essential oil onto a piece of cotton and inhale deeply. You could also hold the small bottle containing the essential oil beneath your nose, if it's not too strong for you. Add a few drops to a massage oil (never apply essential oils directly to the skin) and lightly massage the stomach to help with other digestive problems such as indigestion. While peppermint essential oil helps with digestion, it should never be taken internally without first checking with a care provider.

Relieves Headaches

To relieve headaches place a drop of the peppermint essential oil onto a cotton ball, find a quiet place, close your eyes and inhale deeply. You could also place a few drops into a diffuser and lay down for a few minutes until the headache eases. Many aromatherapy experts feel peppermint essential oil works faster than commercial drugs at relieving headaches. If you can't find a quiet place to inhale the oil, combine a one or two drops of peppermint essential oil with a massage oil (about half a cup) and rub a few drops into your wrists or temples.

Combats Sleepiness

Another peppermint essential oil benefit is that it's invigorating and can wake you up when you're feeling sleepy. Rather than having that cup of caffeine in the morning, try adding a few drops to a diffuser, deeply inhaling peppermint essential oil, or drizzling a drop or two onto the floor of your shower to help you wake up.

Reduces Inflammation

In addition to other abilities, peppermint essential oil mixed in a massage oil reduces muscle inflammation. If you're tired, headachy and have sore muscles, get a full body massage using the mixture. You may find this one oil eases all of those problems. Great for joints that are tired from being in the same typing position. I curiously use the oil straight on the joints and was nicely surprised.

And to concluce: a random link on anti-inflammatory diets.  I hear it's all the rage.:

http://www.inflammation-information.com/anti-inflammatory-foods.html


Friday, March 11, 2011

Are You Suggesting Coconuts Migrate?

The last few times I've had ice cream, I end up taking two hour death naps and waking up only to realize my muscles are as paralyzed as there were in my brief REM. Can't even kick the cats off my face.  No. Idea. Why. A little bit of dairy doesn't hurt me.  My guess? The gluten or the stuff they use for fillers in regular mill ice cream.

So, it's Friday and I've had enough roughage this week and am dying to get home.  Time for a treat. Pass by Sweetbays.  They're organic section is usually overpriced but I always check just in case.  Walk by the frozen organics and the only words that reach out to me are coconut milk and dairy free. $4.29. Popped it in my cart.  I don't wait until I get home.  No, I unwrap that baby right in the car. I take them out... and they're microscopic!  It's like they knew I was a midget!

I check the box, the biggest word on the box was minis.  Losing!

Then I bite into and its chocolately through and through! What? Look at the box.  The next huge word was fudge! Not a big fan of fudgy stuff unless its in brownies and my body didn't want a rich and sinful treat, just something digestible and cool. I should try paying attention, no?


It did taste coconuty though and lately I have a love affair with all things coconut. Soy, I just have crushes on. All in all, it was delicious.  I check the box one more time so see what else I missed..... 70 Calories. And 6 grams of sugar.  Something about healthy fats.  And speaking of fats, these last few weeks I'm stuffed myself with the most fat I ever had since my running days and lost more weight.  The memo was: if you don't eat enough fat, you won't lose weight.  I always knew this but was so paranoid with that misunderstood word I would deprive myself.  So, I'm about to get my coconut-fudge on and eat like 4 more. Winning!


Here's one Thailandish gemstone I found in the MexiBori mart ("Are you suggesting coconuts migrate?")(must watch):




[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="280" caption="Nummy, Nummy."][/caption]

Again, I go so excited with the coconuts I didn't realize it wasn't a ready to eat gelato or yogurt.  I just assumed it was. So I ended up stuck with this for 24 hours:


 




[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption=""Frozen halves of coconuts""][/caption]

Anyway, it's coconut juice, coconut meat, a bit of sugar, and agar powder. That's it.  Once it defrosts its like a crystalized drink and occasional bites of coconut.  Que rico.

More easy-peasy, gluten free, healthy fats, and winning treats.  In the last week I made:




  • Quinoa Granola (leads to incontinence accidents it's so good. It has El Coco!):


[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="403" caption="Click for recipe at Hungry Hungry Hippie"][/caption]

  • And made my own Hummus, with varying levels of garlic.  1) One batch for when husband is home. 2) Tons of garlic for when he's out of town. 3) No I didn't bother with the garnish.  Best hummus I ever had and love the power kick you get from saying, "I make my own hummus".  It was getting complicated to go to Whole Foods every time with the frequency and quantity in which I consume it.  The Sabra and Athenos make my brain hurt because of the  additives.


[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="360" caption="Ditto on linking to recipe"][/caption]

Love, Peace, Coconut Grease.


(Literally, I'm about to put some coconut oil on my hurr to make it healthy and delicious.)


Read up on some awesome health benefits from your favorite nuts!


http://products.mercola.com/coconut-oil/ (Actually a video, I know some of you love Dr. Mercola.  He's encouraging the eating of fat!)


http://hubpages.com/hub/Health_Benefits_of_Coconut Top 10 list!


http://www.coconutoilhealthbenefits.com/ A few more interesting facts