Posts tagged as “#blog”

The Secret to Getting More of What You Want

Published September 22, 2019 by jjmac80

What if I told you there was a simple way for you to have more of what you want? What if I told you much of what you experience in life is ordered up by your subconscious mind? Have you ever been in a situation where you saw the possibility of attaining something good, but found that your fear or insecurities where whispering discouraging words to you? (Yeah, she likes you and you could probably have a good time for a while, but you know you’re kind of boring and she would just end up leaving you for someone else.) (You better hope they don’t pick you for the management position because even though you want to earn more money, you likely wouldn’t be able to handle the job.) (Sure you’d like to generate more income, but then you would lose your government benefits and wind up having to pay more for insurance, groceries, and taxes, so what’s the point?)

Here’s another one for you; how many times have you tried to do something or become something, and it became an endless struggle? The key word here is try. Yes we must apply effort to things, and self discipline in doing so is a necessary component, but rather than “try” what if you could just do or simply be? When we “try” to achieve something we immediately create a barrier between where we are now, and where we want to go. If you wanted to start a business for example, it would benefit you more to see yourself as an individual starting a business or even already in that business and growing, rather than someone who is “trying” to start a business. While these differences may seem subtle, the impact of thinking and believing in such a way is profound. The difference in this example is the word trying suggest struggle or difficulty, while doing or being removes this blockage allowing you to get excited about what you are accomplishing. Fear and doubt are low vibrational emotions, whereas excitement and thankfulness resonate at a much higher frequency; emotion is the language of the universe.

Many people today are stuck in a victim mentality. (I don’t have enough. I can’t afford to pay my bills. The world is unfair. We can’t get along. I’m not doing as well as other people. I hate my job. Money is evil.) Moving through life in this way ensures that you will always remain powerless; life happens to you rather than for you. In the Audible book The Awakening Course by Dr. Joe Vitale,https://amzn.to/31K08Z1 it is explained that the first rule of psychology is that whatever you focus on, you get more of. In other words, if you always focus on what you don’t have, that is what you will get more of. If you focus on what you do have, and are thankful for it, then that will be what you get more of. Dr. Vitale does an amazing job of explaining all of this and so much more. Another Important tip from The Awakening Course is to pay attention to what ideas you allow to permeate your personal beliefs. One example given is your television. It’s no secret that the news groups receive higher view ratings when covering stories about disasters. The unbalanced coverage creates a narrative that mirrors the negative thoughts I gave examples for earlier, which confirms your fears and creates more barriers in your life. (Everyone is fighting. The world is in chaos. We’re running out of resources.) Humans are emotional beings. The Latin derivative for the word emotion (emotere) literally means energy in motion. It becomes difficult to focus positive energy towards your goals and projects in life if you allow yourself to be bombarded with such negativity.

Whether we realize it or not, we all have beliefs. Many of those beliefs can be limiting. I’m not talking about religious beliefs, though those too can be a factor. The beliefs I’m talking about are more along the lines of (I’ll never turn pro playing basketball because I’m not tall enough.) the belief here is that only taller individuals can make it in professional basketball. (I can’t earn a higher income because I never went to college.) The obvious belief here is that one needs a college education to achieve a higher level of income. Dr. Vitalle has spent many years helping regular people dispel such limiting beliefs, and has made it his mission in life to share these life changing tips with as many people as possible. He has authored dozens of books, and was featured in the film The Secret, which gives insight concerning the power of the law of attraction. I personally found The Awakening Course to be of great benefit to me. Joe is a very personable guy and speaks in a way that is plain, straight forward, and easy to follow. I have listened to this audible book many times, and will continue to do so going forward as a reminder to myself. It’s often more beneficial to listen to or re-read a handful of books that speak to you so that you may retain every bit of them, than it is to read or listen to dozens and dozens and forget their wisdom.

That being said, Audible books is an amazing resource for those who are working full time, raising kids, going to school, or are just too tired to sit and read. I have included secure links to Audible in this writing. Without a membership, one time purchases of books can be quite expensive. Depending on the devise you’re on you may have to scroll down for cell phone or slide right on a computer, but by clicking the Audible links on this page you can sign up for a free trial. Usually free books are included, some they just give you, and others you choose. You do have to put in your information to get the free trial, but as long as you get rid of it before the trial is up, you will never be billed. It is so worth taking for a spin. If you’re like me you will find that there are so many other interesting Audible books to hear. People are the happiest when they are learning and growing as an individual. Say good bye to silly radio jockeys and listen in your car! Put your ear buds in and clean house, do art, work on your truck, take a bath, or whatever your heart desires while learning something new. I love to keep a note pad close so I can write things down. I believe in doing things that ad value. This is what my web page is about, and why I choose to share my thoughts on the things I do. With so many negative voices, I want to be one that is positive. If you do try the free trial and listen to The Awakening Course,https://amzn.to/31K08Z1 I’d love to know what you thought of it. Please feel free to leave me a comment. Remember to scroll down for the secure Audible link and promotion. Thanks for reading! Hope you enjoy!

The Importance of Sleep! What Happens When We Don’t Get Enough.

Published February 2, 2019 by jjmac80

The Importance of Sleep! What Happens When We Don’t Get Enough.

Brandon Peters M.D. author of Insomnia Solved https://amzn.to/2GihowJ and speaker at Stanford University discusses the Importance of sleep in this Life Years guest article. Brandon is a leading expert in the area of sleep and one of the great minds of our time. I feel very fortunate to have him share his thoughts with all of us. Please click the link above to check out his new book. Thank you all so much for your support; both Dr. Peters and myself greatly appreciate it! Hope you enjoy this article.

Sleep: Pillar of Health and Well-being

By Brandon Peters, M.D.

Sleep is a pillar of health. With nutrition and exercise, it supports the optimal function of the body and mind. Poor sleep diminishes well-being and can precipitate and even worsen chronic medical conditions like weight gain, hypertension, and diabetes. How do sleep disorders like insomnia and sleep apnea undermine health?

The Vital Role of Sleep

In the past century, we have begun to more fully understand the importance of sleep to health. It is not a state in which the body shuts down. On the contrary, our very health is restored with sleep of sufficient quality and quantity.

There are two recognized states of sleep: rapid eye movement (REM) and non-REM sleep. REM is when the mind is active but the body remains paralyzed. Memory is consolidated. Learning is reinforced. Vivid dreams flood the mind, like movies in which you participate.

During non-REM sleep, which constitutes upwards of 3/4 of the night, the body is repaired. Growth hormone is released during slow-wave sleep. This predominates in the first few hours of the night. Physical conditioning, muscle growth, and important physical repairs occur then. Athletic performance is enhanced by adequate sleep. In addition, the brain’s tissues are cleansed as metabolic byproducts are cleared by the glymphatic system.

Sleep needs for adults range from 7 to 9 hours. Inadequate sleep can quickly lead to symptoms of sleep deprivation.

When Things Go Amiss

If you need 9 hours of sleep to feel rested, but you only get 8 hours, you will be sleep deprived. This can lead to important changes that affect health.

With acute sleep deprivation, there can be hormonal changes. Increased cortisol levels may provoke insulin resistance, contributing to high blood pressure and diabetes. Appetite-regulating hormones are disturbed. Ghrelin levels increase, stimulating appetite. Leptin levels decrease, also increasing appetite and weight gain.

Beyond the effects on weight regulation, there are other impacts. Sleep deprivation contributes to:

Excessive daytime sleepiness
Poor concentration
Short-term memory problems
Mood changes (anxiety, depression, or irritability)
Hallucinations
Paranoia
Physical pain
Poor performance, errors, and accidents

Not sleeping enough may provoke these symptoms. Unfortunately, sleep disorders may also have an impact. Insomnia and sleep apnea are two conditions that deserve special attention.

Insomnia is defined as difficulty falling or staying asleep. If it occurs at least 3 nights per week for more than 3 months, it is termed chronic insomnia. It may take someone with insomnia more than 30 minutes to fall asleep. After waking, as much time or more may be spent lying awake at night. Severe insomnia can result in hours spent tossing and turning. Some people feel like they haven’t slept at all for extended periods. Chronic insomnia may affect about 10 percent of the population. The resulting loss of sleep can contribute to the symptoms of sleep deprivation.

Obstructive sleep apnea is the other major sleep disorder that should not be overlooked. It is often associated with snoring. It may lead to fragmented sleep, undermining its quality. Witnessed pauses, gasping, excessive daytime sleepiness, frequent urination at night, teeth grinding, night sweats, and morning headaches may also be present. The condition requires testing to identify, and may be missed by the affected person and his or her bed partner. If sleep is of poor quality, no matter how much is obtained, an evaluation by a board-certified sleep physician is indicated.

Finding Solutions to Improve Sleep

Fortunately, there are ways to improve sleep to avoid the effects of sleep deprivation. Ensure that you are meeting your individual sleep needs. Protect your bedtime, go to bed feeling sleepy, spend enough time in bed to meet your sleep needs, and keep a consistent sleep-wake schedule. Try to get 15 to 30 minutes of sunlight upon awakening, every day, to reinforce your circadian pattern.

For those with insomnia, consider participating in a cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTI) program. This 6-week education course can be guided by a psychologist, and online programs and books also exist. It is the most effective treatment for chronic insomnia and teaches a set of skills that can improve sleep for a lifetime.

If other symptoms are present, or if sleep deprivation persists, seek evaluation and testing with the help of a sleep physician. If a sleep disorder is identified, appropriate treatment may be the key to finally getting the healthful rest that your body and mind need to function at their best.

Brandon Peters, M.D., is a double board-certified neurologist and sleep medicine physician who practices at Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle. He is the author of Insomnia Solved https://amzn.to/2GihowJ, an online CBTI program and book available through Amazon. He is also an adjunct lecturer at Stanford University, the birthplace of sleep medicine.

My Secret to Learning and Bettering Myself

Published January 24, 2019 by jjmac80

My Secret to Learning and Bettering Myself

I just wanted to take a minute with this post and share something with all of you that has really been awesome for me. I live a very busy life; I own and operate a small distributing business 7 days a week year round. I am a single father of 3 kids, and have a household to run. I also am committed to working out 3 to 4 days a week, and I created Life Years as a way to help others get healthy as well. I love to read and research, as I believe personal growth is paramount to an individuals happiness. However, as you can imagine it is often difficult to find the time. This is what I wanted to share with all of you. One of my secrets is listening to audio books! There is so much information available in audio form these days, its amazing! Some of you may know, that I am an affiliate with Amazon, and because of that I am able to pass along special offers from time to time. This is one of those times, it cost you nothing, yet you have so much to gain. Right now Audible Books is offering a free trial, with free books included; just click the link to check it out https://amzn.to/2T5oWXc Its so great! I listen when I’m driving, when I’m cleaning, and when I’m working on other projects. I love squeezing in some knowledge or having someone paint some word pictures in my brain while I get other things done. When I’m learning about things, I often keep a notebook nearby so I can write things down that I want to remember, but I can always listen to it again as well; bonus! I personally am sick of negative news on TV and radio, and social media that causes us to compare our lives with those of others. Its been shown time and time again that people are the happiest when they are experiencing personal growth or making progress in some way. You could have everything you ever wanted, but if you don’t set new goals and do something to take action towards those goals, its likely you will be unhappy. With this post, like all of my others, I don’t link in products that I have not personally tried. I only link to the things that have really worked for me, and that I believe will also be helpful to you. If you have ever thought about trying Audible Books, now is a great time since you will also get some free books! If you don’t like it, get rid of it!!! I hope you at least try it, and if you do, I hope that you love it!! Enjoy!

P.s. I have also included a link to this offer at the very bottom of all of my other articles as well, under the comment and subscription blocks; trying to hook up as many people as I can while the offer is available.

The Benefits of Black Cumin Seed Oil

Published January 14, 2019 by jjmac80

The Benefits of Black Cumin Seed Oil

It’s no secret to most of us by now that ancient civilizations had special knowledge of plants and herbs, and what ailments they were useful for. It may however surprise many to know that a good deal of these natural remedies have been researched in modern times and have actually held up to their claims. Just how these discoveries were initially made is a bit of a mystery, and while rational thought would tell us that it must have been a long process of trial and error, many ancient cultures claimed the information was given to them by their sky gods. As a result, many of these medicines were held in very high esteem and even made their way into religious writings. One such herb is the amazing Black cumin seed or Nigella sativa, which is pressed into an oil. This plant goes by many different names such as Melanthion as mentioned by Hippocrates, and Curative black cumin as mentioned in the book of Isaiah within the Bible. It has been used as a cure all in many cultures of the past including India, China and all throughout the middle east. In fact, when archaeologist Howard Carter opened the sealed burial chamber of King Tutankhamen in 1923, one of the items discovered among the ancient relics was black cumin seed. There have also been writings found in which Cleopatra herself attributes her beauty to the use of this oil as a facial cleanser. Even the Prophet Mohammed is quoted as saying “Use this Black seed, it has a cure for every disease except death.”

So what is it about this plant that makes it so useful? Black cumin seed oil is quite high in essential fatty acids, especially omega 6 and 9. Also contained within this mighty oil are extremely powerful phytonutrients Nigellone and Thymoquinone. It is anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, and has even been found to be effective as an anti-histamine.Traditionally it has been used in the treatment of all things bronchial, such as coughing, pneumonia, and congestion. It has also been used to aid in wound healing, Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, digestive issues, parasites (such as worms), renal disorders, cardiovascular health, acne, lowering blood pressure, candida, and on and on. In the case of heart health, studies have shown the thymoquinone present in the oil acts by relaxing arterial walls and increasing oxygenation in the heart itself. The same is true in the lungs where the oil works as a bronchial dilator. It also relaxes the tissues of the digestive system, allowing better processing. All of these actions are anti-inflammatory; inflammation is the root of most diseases, and so its no wonder this oil plays such a large role in treating so many of them. Black seed oil has also been shown to assist the immune system and may re-sensitize the many cells of the body to the insulin being produced by the pancreas, making it potentially beneficial to those with type 2 diabetes. Some claim to have increased mental clarity with regular use of this herb as well, though I have not seen many studies in this area. It would seem to make sense though if the reason for one’s mental fog had to do with inflammation. The Greeks did use it to relieve headaches, and many today rely on it for ridding themselves of migraine pain, but further study is needed.

As for my own experience, I have used it in the case of cough and chest congestion and found that it definitely cut down on the time it took my body to overcome these problems. Most recently, I had a cough that had been lingering for around three weeks or so, and while it wasn’t extreme and I felt fine otherwise, it just would not go away. I began taking 1 teaspoon of the oil twice a day, and by the third day my cough was gone! My daughter, who had been coughing for a couple months straight due to having Mono found that her cough went away after a few days of taking the oil twice a day as well. That was a huge deal for her as you can imagine. Having a lingering cough for so long was keeping her from going out to eat, enjoying time with her friends, going to the movies, and even interrupting her sleep. Better sleep by the way is something else many users of this oil have reported; many claiming it cured their insomnia. 1 teaspoon once or twice a day is really all that is needed to maintain good health, but most of the medicinal benefits have been found when an individual works their way up to 2 tablespoons a day. Here are links to a couple of the brands I use and which have the highest levels of thymoquinone (TQ).https://amzn.to/2AMCzU5 .https://amzn.to/2SXpezy .

While this oil has been proven both scientifically and anecdotally to be extremely beneficial, I would recommend an individual taking it long term also consider taking a good omega 3 supplement, as too much omega 6 in absence of omega 3 has also been shown to increase inflammation. This is one reason why grass fed beef is so much better for people than corn fed, as corn fed contains a 20 to 1 omega 6 to omega 3 ratio which is a recipe for inflammation. A 3 to 1 ratio is ideal, and this can be found in grass fed. Wild caught salmon is my personal favorite source of omega 3 though it tends to be seasonal, and therefor hard to find year round. Don’t even get me started on the problems with farm raised. These are some Omega 3 supplements I know, use and trust. https://amzn.to/2M8vemi .https://amzn.to/2VQnw4A .

On a final note I would warn anyone taking blood pressure medication to exercise caution and check with their Doctor before taking said oil as it has been shown by itself to lower blood pressure and also to work synergistically with medications which could cause an extreme effect.

Thanks for reading! I strongly recommend the use of Black seed oil to anyone looking to better their health.

Don’t Take it Personally

Published November 25, 2018 by jjmac80

Don’t Take it Personally

“There is a huge amount of freedom that comes to you

when you take nothing personally.”

- Don Miguel Ruiz

We’ve all been there; someone at work, school, on the bus, or waiting behind us in line at the drug store lashes out as if we have committed a crime against them. It’s amazing how quickly such a simple event can ruin our day. Long after the incident has occurred we find ourselves replaying it over and over in our minds. We think about things we wished we had said or done, or perhaps what we will say the next time we experience such an encounter. Our stress level swells, and before we realize it; the rest of our day has been taken hostage by our feelings of anger and confusion.

It’s important to remember that in most cases it has absolutely nothing to do with you. Its usually misguided anger fueled by an event or events in the other person’s life. Maybe its an angry older man who has recently lost his wife, and is struggling to cope. Maybe its a teenage girl who cut you off in traffic because she is emotionally distraught after having an argument with her best friend. The point is we don’t know! If we’re going to make assumptions; let us assume that most people are of a decent nature and do not set out to ruin our day. It behooves us to understand that every individual is a soul on their own unique journey. When you learn to see others as a soul, rather than just someone who has inconvenienced you in some way, you may actually find some sympathy for what they may be going through. Understanding in this way is an act of love, and brings about forgiveness, which allows you to let things go, and voila’… you’re back to having a good day. Okay, it may take some practice, but fortunately for you, there will be plenty of opportunities.

Sometimes taking things personally goes much deeper and is a bit more difficult to wrestle with.

This is the case for the man or woman who as a child suffered under an abusive parent, and for the individual who has been in (or is currently in) an oppressive relationship. In both cases, the individual is lead to believe that they are not good enough, or that they may not even deserve to be loved at all. Taking on such a toxic view of one’s self can be debilitating in many ways. The offender in these examples has often been the recipient of similar abuse and or oppression in their own life. Sometimes individuals like this either consciously or subconsciously pass along that which has been impressed on them as a way to relieve their own pain and anger. Again, understanding and forgiveness are going to be paramount in helping you to not take it personally when someone wrongs you (or has wronged you) in either of these two situations, or in a similar situations. Understanding that it’s them, not you who has the problem, and forgiving them even if they don’t ask for it can be quite freeing. Forgiveness in this case is not about making right that which has been done to you, but rather it is about releasing that which keeps you from your own happiness.

The next time someone hurls and insult at you, attacks you in some way, or acts without regard or consideration for your feelings; take a moment to experience that feeling. Then remember there is a choice to be made. You can act from a place of anger and frustration by taking it personally, or you can choose to not take it personally and move about your day in peace, and without the burden of shouldering the negative energy of others. I am not suggesting that you be a pushover if someone is firing at you intentionally. It’s important to know when to stand up for yourself. I am merely suggesting that you not give others power over you by letting them decide how you are going to feel. It is rather appropriate (in my opinion) to be selfish where your health and happiness are concerned.

There will always be words spouted in anger, and hurtful actions taken against others as a way to mask one’s pain. Learning to not take things personally could be monumental in setting you free. Here is A link to my E-Book (A Happier You) https://amzn.to/2zoSdEq along with some other books I highly recommend. Thanks for reading! https://amzn.to/2P0sCqk https://amzn.to/2SaSj9H https://amzn.to/2Se6zP7

Something is Missing From the Air You Breathe.

Published November 4, 2018 by jjmac80

Something is Missing From the Air You Breathe.

Have you ever felt tired after a long car, train or bus ride? Perhaps you have experienced fatigue after a trip on a plane and assumed it was jet lag. Have you ever slept a full 8 hours and still woke to find yourself tired and groggy? Maybe you’re like me and find that you need more sleep in the winter time. For years I assumed this was solely due to attaining less sunlight during the day which meant I had lower vitamin D3 levels and therefore required more sleep to recharge. The problem was that over time I realized I still felt I had less energy. I even began to regularly take a D3 supplement which while beneficial, still did not seem to completely rectify the issue for me. Once spring came along I would slowly begin to feel more energized. Some people are familiar with something called Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD; the symptoms of which are fatigue, feeling withdrawn, trouble sleeping, inability to focus, Irritability, and even body aches to name a few.

There is something that connects all of these things together. Something eastern medicine has known about for years. It has to do with electricity in the body. This is something often overlooked by western medicine. While some recognize the importance of electrolytes in beverages to help hydrate and restore energy in the body, most do not understand what they are and how they help us. Electrolyte minerals that can be obtained in the diet include magnesium, calcium, potassium, and sodium. These minerals are all alkalizing, meaning they make the body more alkaline. This is a term you may have heard when someone is talking about a battery. This is because by becoming more alkaline one literally becomes more conductive and thus more electric. This is very important because there are many processes which cannot take place in the body without proper conductivity, such as cell regeneration and many other restorative functions of the body. Without proper conductivity one could experience low energy, immune dysfunction, slow wound healing, brain fog, and well… all the symptoms associated with SAD. Now while those who are aware of this (such as myself) can and do make an effort to eat a balanced diet, drink plenty of clean water, and supplement when needed, there is something profound that most are still missing. Are you ready for this?.. clean air!!

How important is the air we breathe and how does it factor in? Well first of all, the body can go almost a month without food, and up to a week without water, but if you go without air for more than a few minutes you’re a goner, so I’d say it’s pretty important. Scientists have discovered that while oxygen and nitrogen are both important components of the air we breathe (along with lesser components such as argon, carbon dioxide, and methane) it is the negative ions within the air that have the greatest impact on our health. These negative ions carry a small electrical charge which when breathed in aid our body’s in numerous functions. The action of deep breathing alone is beneficial for lymphatic drainage and activation of the pneumogastric nerve which triggers glands in the body useful for balancing hormones. Proper deep breathing can be achieved by focusing on feeling your lungs expand downward towards your belly while drawing air in through the nose. This pushes on the diaphragm and is helpful for proper digestion and massaging the intestines thereby assisting in moving waste forward and out of the body (also known as peristalsis). But how do we get more negative ions, and what about positive ions? Positive ions are unfortunately all around us; they are in all of the things that pollute our air such as chemical sprays, dust, smog, and exhaust. These positive ions essentially render the negative ions useless. Furnaces and air-conditioners also damage the charge of the negative ions. In nature the sun’s rays, the moving of the oceans waves, and quickly moving air are the tools used by the earth to charge up more negative ions.

This brings me back to my questions posed to you about feeling tired after being trapped in a room, vehicle, or plane without any of the things necessary to produce negative ions for an extended period of time. I mean, just think about the places you’ve been where you feel the most charged up; the mountains, the beach, and wide open spaces in nature. Now think about how low energy you feel when you stay inside breathing recirculated air all day. Is it any wonder people experience SAD more in places where they are forced in doors due to freezing temperatures? Automobile manufacturers are now making available negative ionizers as research has shown that it cuts down of fatigue while driving. Even the space program uses these devices to help keep astronauts alert. Having one of these ionizers around has been paramount in helping me to feel more energized. I run it while I sleep, meditate, and workout. It is especially helpful during the winter months when I cannot be outside as much. I feel the biggest difference after I sleep with it in the room. Its like I’m actually recharging! I used to use a salt lamp as these are thought to improve the negative ions, but studies have shown the amount of negative ions produced by these lamps is so low it’s almost impossible to measure; it makes a good night-light for my son though. However, here are some ionizers that do work (including the one I have). https://amzn.to/2JC5nlA https://amzn.to/2SJCmIz https://amzn.to/2SOu9TI https://amzn.to/2JCJMcE https://amzn.to/2qrqOgd

I hope this has been helpful to you. Thanks for reading!

Oral Health and Systemic Disease

Published September 23, 2018 by jjmac80

Oral Health and Systemic Disease

“You cannot be healthy without oral health.” - David Satcher (Surgeon General 1998—2000)

Quick link to the Iodine products I use

https://amzn.to/2R6QdqT

https://amzn.to/2R7n3If

An individual’s oral health is both directly and indirectly linked to overall health in the body. More and more research is coming out to support this. The teeth are connected to nerves, and the nerves are connected to blood vessels which are therefore joined to the circulatory and nervous systems. http://lifeyears.net/2018/03/30/overview-of-the-nervous-system-and-how-it-relates-to-our-health/

Infections of the teeth and gums have been shown to cause an increase in inflammation throughout the body. Gingivitis is a type of mild to moderate infection many are familiar with. Symptoms include red, puffy, and bleeding gums. Plaque and bacteria left on the teeth near the gum line builds up triggering an immune response which results in inflammation. If this condition goes unchecked long enough, one my find their condition progresses to a more serious condition know as Periodontitis or Periodontal disease. The symptoms of this disease include receding gums, tender gums, loose teeth, loss of teeth, and even damage to the jawbone. Individuals at greater risk include those with poor oral hygiene and poor nutrition, diabetics, smokers, individuals taking medications, those who are chronically dehydrated, and people with Parkinson’s. The link with many of these at risk individuals is dry-mouth or xerostomia. Saliva contains enzymes which help to reduce acidity in the mouth and neutralize harmful bacteria. In its absence these harmful intruders move in and begin to wreak havoc on the mouth. Soon what began as tender gums is now setting one up for more serious problems such as heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and dementia. Cardiovascular surgeons are taking this connection quite seriously, especially in the case of individuals with valvular heart disease; in this case doctors recommend regular oral examination to keep periodontal disease at bay as inflammatory links associated with this disorder are known to worsen this already problematic heart condition. Its also been shown to cause further hardening of the arteries. According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control) 630,000 Americans die every year from heart disease; that’s 1 in 4 deaths in America. It’s the number one killer of both men and women. Maintaining good oral health can greatly reduce one’s risk. In the case of rheumatoid arthritis 1.3 million Americans are affected. This is an auto immune problem in which alien proteins gather in the joints alerting the immune system to attack. The immune system uses inflammation to isolate foreign invaders in an attempt to keep them from spreading. Often the source of these alien proteins is unknown, but research is now finding that at least one source is coming directly from infections in the mouth. Hidden bacteria could be lurking under a crown, or in the aftermath of a root canal. Similar lines are now being drawn to other conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Multiple sclerosis, and Lupus. http://lifeyears.net/2018/03/31/an-overview-of-the-lymphatic-and-immune-systems/This same inflammatory response has been shown to quicken the effects of dementia and increase one’s risk of stroke.

It has also been found that Infections of the mouth such as periodontal disease can increase the incidence of bacterial pneumonia. Porphromonas gingivalisis a pathogenic bacterium which forms colonies on blood agar. When present in the mouth due to infection, it not only enters the blood stream directly (in a similar way as nicotine from chewing tobacco; giving a quick buzz) but is also available to be inhaled into the lungs where is can explode into a whole host of other problems, including pneumonia.

The good news is, there are a multitude of ways to prevent and eradicate oral infections. Cutting back on sugars and processed foods is a good start, as these things feed the bad bacteria in the body, thereby strengthening their numbers. Brushing twice a day for at least two full minutes, and paying special attention to the gum-line is especially helpful when done regularly. I know we hear this one a lot, but you need to be flossing at least once a day. I like to recommend floss sticks which make the job much easier. There are also water flushing systems one could buy to help get around braces and retainers. There are many other techniques for cleaning between teeth such as oil pulling and swishing water after meals. Oil pulling is generally done with coconut oil these days, as it is both antibacterial, and antimicrobial, but was traditionally done with sesame oil in Ayurvedic medicine. A spoon full of coconut oil in the mouth and swished for 10 to 20 minutes creates a detergent effect, cleaning teeth and killing bacteria. I would recommend doing some research before trying this technique as people with fillings and crowns could find that oil pulling loosens them over time. Other oils beneficial for cleaning and killing bad bacteria include neem, tea tree, oregano, and many others. Drinking green tea has been shown to help reduce the occurrence of mouth infections due to its high and specially tailored antioxidant content; howeverthose with dry-mouth should avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol as these are diuretics and can cause further dehydration, exacerbating the issue. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that has been used to treat mouth infections with great success, though I’m not a huge fan of artificial sweeteners it may have its place in serious cases. It should be noted that this sweetener is fatal to dogs, and is often found in sugar free gums. Incidentally chewing sugar free gum can help to keep the mouth clean as well. Ways to fight dry-mouth include sucking on sugar free lozenges to induce saliva, keeping hydrated, aloe vera juice, ginger, stop smoking, and trying not to be a mouth breather, which nobody likes anyway!! But seriously, putting some or all of these things into practice could truly increase your quality of life on so many levels. I also highly recommend putting a couple drops of iodine into about 2 tablespoons of filtered water and swishing for at least 30 seconds (a minute is even better). Make sure to spit it out!

You may have noticed I didn’t mention anything about the use of Fluoride; here’s why http://lifeyears.net/2018/04/01/fluoride-in-the-drinking-water/

The Benefits of Eating Strawberries

Published July 2, 2018 by jjmac80

The Benefits of Eating Strawberries

Strawberries are an amazing super food which when consumed on a regular basis can give way to a seemingly innumerable amount of healthy perks. These delicious red berries contain a plethora of nutrients including vitamin C, manganese, magnesium, potassium, vitamin k, and loads of antioxidants; many of which are important for protecting our many cells, detoxifying the body, and slowing down the aging process.

Consuming as little as one cup of strawberries per week has been shown to lower both blood pressure and LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) over time while simultaneously maintaining levels of HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol). Daily consumption is even better. Much of the research has been focused on the antioxidant authocyanin, (the nutrient responsible for giving strawberries their bright red color) however these berries are also high in pectin which is a soluble fiber lending itself to the cholesterol lowering process. In fact a typical serving of strawberries contains around 14% of the daily recommended amount of dietary fiber. There are also natural levels of nitrates present which when consumed help the body to produce nitric oxide, thereby helping to ensure proper blood flow throughout the body and lowering BP. This benefits the heart, brain, and other organs, but is also helpful for increased muscle repair, and has even been shown to aid men in their ability to get and maintain an erection. You may be confused, as many of you have probably heard that nitrates are bad for you. The short answer is not all nitrates are created equal. The type typically added to meats combines with a compound found in protein when heated and forms a substance known as nitrosamines which some research suggest may be cancer causing. This is not the case with the very beneficial nitrates contained within the strawberry.

A cup of strawberries contains roughly between 90-150% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. Larger berries typically contain higher levels, this is the reason for the variance. This vitamin is very important for protecting against oxidative stress, and is crucial in the body’s ability to heal and or repair connective tissue via the production of collagen making it extremely important for healthy skin as well. Our teeth also profit as this vitamin is needed for holding them firmly in place and preventing gum disease. Vitamin C also has a role to play in assisting our immune system. Frozen strawberries are a great option because they are typically flash frozen at the peak of freshness which helps to ensure higher levels. Studies have shown that even after 3 months of being frozen viamin c levels are maintained. Whereas fresh strawberries begin to decline shortly after being picked, and continue to drop with each passing day.

Another almost unbelievable benefit of strawberries is their ability to prevent the development of type 2 diabetes. Research has shown that consuming two to three servings a week can substantially lower ones risk. They are so effective at balancing blood sugars that when eaten at the same time as pure sugar they can actually prevent a spike in blood glucose. This is almost unheard of. So if you or someone you know suffers from type 2 diabetes I would highly recommend adding them to the diet.

Strawberries also make the list of foods which can help to bolster sperm count. The combination of vitamin C and antioxidants help to increase the number of swimmers while also protecting them against negative gene expression which could otherwise cause them to be defective.

The anti-inflammatory effects of strawberries are astounding as well. There are only a hand full of foods which can inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) and Janus Kinase (JAK) markers responsible for the inflammatory effects recognized in such autoimmune problems as Crones, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain forms of alopecia. Strawberries contain phytochemicals known as ellagitannins and quercetin which are key players in accomplishing this impressive feat.

Women who are pregnant will benefit from the folate contained within the strawberry as it is a necessary component in the proper development of the baby’s brain. They also consist of folic acid; a nutrient often recommended as its thought to prevent birth defects.

There are other great qualities encompassed within this amazing heart shaped wonder, perhaps the simplest quality being their delightful flavor. Frozen or fresh, the benefits are many. I would however recommend buying organic whenever possible as strawberries tend to be heavily sprayed since they grow close to the ground and tend to be more susceptible to weeds and pest. Happy eating! I always blend mine frozen with coconut milk in one of these https://amzn.to/2RczGSt I absolutly love it!! I use it 3 times a day.

The Benefits of Enzymes, and Why Most People Are Deficient.

Published June 1, 2018 by jjmac80

The Benefits of Enzymes, and Why Most People Are Deficient.

Here's a quick link to the enzymes I use.https://amzn.to/2RK1vBJ

The body produces and utilizes both digestive enzymes and metabolic enzymes. Digestive enzymes are tasked with turning the foods we consume into energy. While metabolic enzymes are responsible for all biochemical reactions taking place throughout the body, and are contained within every human cell. There are thousands of types of metabolic enzymes scattered among the body’s over 100 trillion cells. Without these enzymes cell death would occur and we would die. Some digestive enzymes are secreted by the gallbladder, liver, stomach, small intestine, and colon, but most are produced by the pancreas. The pancreas is likewise charged with regulating blood sugar as discussed in my blog An Overview of The Endocrine System. Metabolic enzymes are produced internally as well.

There is another very important form of enzyme which is often over looked and most are lacking; this is the food enzyme. Herein lies the problem for many individuals. Numerous issues of the body are related to this simple truth, and here’s why. When we don’t ingest ample amounts of food enzymes to help us break down the foods we eat. the body must compensate by producing them. When this occurs, the body must also slow its production of metabolic enzymes. To further compound the matter, the body produces less and less of these enzymes for us as we age. In fact, by the time one reaches their forties they are already producing far less than they did when they were younger (infants for example produce 30x the digestive enzymes then that of an adult) and with today’s common diet consisting largely of processed and refined garbage food, many could have problems much sooner. Food enzymes abound within raw foods and grass fed meats which have not been overcooked. We have become so concerned with food safety and preservation that we kill these beneficial enzymes in order to remove potentially harmful bacteria. This is done via various processes such as pasteurization, homogenization, radiation (as with spinach for example) and the use of microwaves. Other factors contributing to low enzyme survival rate include foods raised in poor soil, GMO alteration, and the ingesting of toxins such as artificial sweeteners, herbicides, pesticides, medications, and consumption of fluoride. The effects of fluoride are further discussed in my blog Fluoride in The Drinking Water. While it’s true there are some dangers in regard to bad bacteria in milk, I.g. E coli, and listeria, there has been research done which shows a substantial nutritional deficiency in animals which were given pasteurized milk versus whole milk. One such study included multiple generations of cats. The group receiving only whole milk thrived and proliferated, while the group receiving only pasteurized milk eventually became frail and sterile. A good rule to follow when it comes to food is if it doesn’t mold and break down on its own, don’t eat it. I personally supplement my diet with an enzyme blend to help insure my body is getting what it needs. This is a quick and easy way to help make the most of the foods you’re eating. There are different enzymes required for the utilization of each carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Food allergies, obesity, poor muscle development, depression, anxiety, gallbladder problems, crones disease, leaky gut syndrome, constant diarrhea, dairy intolerance, brain fog, inflammation, toxicity, blood clots, poor hormone regulation, increased aging, poor utilization of oxygen, and many other ailments can all be related to enzyme deficiency. To give you an idea of how enzyme deficiency can cascade, lets take a quick look at brain fog. The brain can only make use of glucose as energy. It burns 25% of all blood sugar available in the body. Some other organs in the body can directly utilize fat as energy, but not the brain. Without a steady supply of glucose the brain will become impaired within approximately 4 hours. Symptoms often begin to show up as erratic emotional behavior before progressing into memory loss and inability to concentrate. The brain can make quick use of foods high in glucose like honey and fruit, but otherwise requires carbohydrates to be turned into glucose by the body before it can be used. When carbohydrates are in short supply it can make use of glycogen which has been stored by the liver from the breaking down of proteins and fats, and then converted to glucose. However, in order to make this conversion the liver itself must have glucose from carbohydrates to burn as fuel. Enzymes help with this as well. The more enzymes available, the less energy is required to make this conversion. This is why low carbohydrate diets are not sustainable for extended periods, and also why it is paramount that proper enzyme levels are present.

Enzymes are extremely valuable for every function of the body, not the least of which is the immune system. The immune system requires the enzyme protease for example, which is needed to break down proteins critical to the production of white blood cells that are essential for proper immune function. Lipase is a major enzyme needed for breaking down fat. Without it, an individual could struggle with unhealthy weight gain and an inability to make use of lipids for the production of sex hormones such as testosterone for males and estrogen for women.

I could go on, but to conclude, I would strongly encourage anyone looking to optimize their health to consider making a few healthy alterations to their diet by including plenty of raw fruits and vegetables, and perhaps enzyme supplementation to round out a healthy lifestyle. Here are the enzymes I use once again. https://amzn.to/2RK1vBJ I also like to recommend fulvic acid, https://amzn.to/2q5usME this is amazing stuff!

How to Cultivate Positive Relationships

Published May 11, 2018 by jjmac80

How to Cultivate Positive Relationships

“A healthy relationship will never require you to sacrifice your friends,

your dreams, or your dignity.”

-Mandy Hale

A friend told me once that they were very upset that nobody ever called them or invited them to parties or events. I remember asking him who he had called recently, or what events he had planned and invited people to. In today’s world people are quite busy with their own lives and can unintentionally neglect their relationships with friends and family. Perhaps if this friend of mine had invited a few people out for a game of pool and a slice of pizza he might be a bit happier with his experience. You can tell yourself that your experiences are unfair, or see them as opportunities to learn something. You can see yourself as a victim of your experiences or the creator of them.

Though this post is about relationships, I’m a big advocate of spending time alone. I believe this will lead to you knowing yourself better, which will help to set you up for having more positive and meaningful relationships. When you know yourself well, you are less likely to put up with other individuals who may try to mistreat or take advantage of you in some way. You are also less likely to settle for relationships that aren’t really a good fit for you as you will have more confidence in knowing what you bring to the table and where your boundaries lie.

Its been said that if one wants to be a millionaire, one should spend time hanging out with millionaires. In part this is because an individual who does so, is able to get a first hand look at how a millionaire conducts themselves. This would give some idea as to what kind of characteristics one may need to take on in order to become a millionaire themselves. But there is something else at work here; something that many great men and women have tried to understand and harness across the span of time; the law of attraction. So if you run around with millionaires and begin to believe that you are becoming one, than the universe is likely to bring about things in your life to make this a reality.

It’s not quite that simple, but this is the basic idea. This concept has been around for thousands of years. Even in the bible we are told “whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours”. The universe is organized. My point in telling you this is that if you are the type of person who likes to play the victim and feel sorry for yourself, then there are two kinds of people you will attract in your life; those who victimize you, and those who are also feeling sorry for themselves. If you go around complaining that you never have enough, or that no one loves you, then you are likely creating a self fulfilling prophecy. This is extremely important. If one is to continue with such negative beliefs, then it’s probable that they will be made uncomfortable by anything or anyone who does not fit into this negative ideal. If someone comes along and attempts to love them without condition, but they continue to believe that no one truly loves them, then there is a greater likelihood of that person self sabotaging the relationship in order to meet the expectation they have pre-set for their life. Whatever has gone on in your life, whatever you have done, it’s in the past. Every day you are given the opportunity to choose better things for yourself. It’s time for you to start believing you deserve good things, and that you are worthy of unconditional love. When you do, you allow people to bless you while simultaneously remaining humble enough to be thankful for every bit of of it.

Be the type of person that you would like to hang out with. If you would like to have the type of friends who would be there for you in times of difficulty, then be the type of friend that is there for others in their times of difficulty. If you want the type of lover who loves you unconditionally, than be the type of lover who loves unconditionally. There is never a guarantee that you will be given back exactly what you give, but when you love this way your heart will be full and your conscience will be clear. Sadly, there are those who will still try to take advantage of your kindness, but if you know where your boundaries are, then you can love yourself enough to sever ties with such individuals before they are allowed to steal your energy.

Over time, as you begin to put these positive workings into motion you will start to attract more of what you need. You will begin to attract positive and meaningful relationships with people who truly care about you and your happiness. You will have fewer negative experiences, and you can be excited about all of the positive experiences that you were meant to have.

If you found this helpful, I have an e-book you may also enjoy called A Happier You, along with another of my favorites. https://amzn.to/2JbawAF https://amzn.to/2D0mVas

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