Posts tagged as “#health”

The Benefits of Black Cumin Seed Oil

Published January 14, 2019 by jjmac80

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.

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!

Fluoride in The Drinking Water

Published April 1, 2018 by jjmac80

Fluoride in The Drinking Water

Quick link to the R.O. water system I use to remove the fluoride. https://amzn.to/2yupCNA

So for years we have been taught that fluoride is good for teeth and that it can protect them from decay when applied topically, but what happens when we ingest it? There are a few different forms of fluoride; calcium fluoride, sodium fluoride, and hydrofluorosilicic acid. The first one can be found in nature, the other two are byproducts of aluminum and metal manufacturing, and phosphate mining; they are highly toxic to all living organisms and were at one time being pumped into the air and dumped into streams where they decimating the eco system. This stuff eats through glass, steel, and even concrete. Just look up the Rock Island fluoride hazmat spill. Believe it or not, the last two are the ones being added to your drinking water. This junk often carries with it other heavy metals and toxins such as lead, mercury, and arsenic. A large amount of our hydrofluorosilicic acid is imported from China who recognizes it as toxic waste and bands it from their own drinking water. As do Austria, Germany, Denmark, Finland, Netherlands, Hungary, Japan, and many others. The European Union decided (based off the same information available to the USA) that there are too many unresolved health issues associated with this toxic byproduct and therefore it is unethical to force it on people who don’t want it. That’s okay, just slap a skull and cross bones on the side and ship it to America, where it is illegal to put into the sea, but okay to put into the peoples drinking water. Some time in the early 40s the destructive nature of these chemicals became clear. Companies would have to spend millions of dollars to clean, filter, and properly dispose of this toxic waste; but that’s where you come in. By adding so many parts per million to our drinking water, we become the filter for this destructive substance. Even the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognizes it as a poisonous nerotoxin. Studies have shown it to cause a slowing of the mind. One study done at Harvard found that children who lived in high fluoride areas had significantly lower IQ levels than those living in low fluoride areas. The EPA also states that if more than used for brushing (a pea sized amount) is swallowed, one should call poison control. Yet that is how much you consume with each glass of water if you live in a city with fluoridated water. I’d also like to add, that even if one considers it a medicine, there is no way to regulate it. The more one drinks, the more one gets, and it’s not just in the water, it’s in everything made with the water; sodas, juices, cereals, and just about anything else you can think of. Reverse osmosis filtration is the only way to remove a noticeable amount of fluoride; charcoal filters, distillation, and boiling don’t work. This is the one I own https://amzn.to/2yupCNA it works great, never leaks, and I only have to worry about filters once a year. It was easy to install; check out the reviews. Over fluoridation in young children can lead to a condition know as dental fluorosis. I recommend you look up some images online. Another condition caused by over fluoridation is skeletal fluorosis. Fluoride absorbs into the bones and prevents calcium from being used properly. This leads to a build up of blood calcium which over time leads to a weakening of the bones and calcification of tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissue, especially in the joints. This leads to varying forms of joint pain. Now the drug companies can also make money from fluoridation; angry yet? Fluoride or (fluorine) is classified as a halogen element on the periodic table; the same is true of chlorine, bromine, astatine, and iodine. Fluoride is known to disrupt the uptake of iodine by the thyroid gland. Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones; without it it’s likely one could develop hypothyroidism. Further studies have found fluoride to be linked to the inactivation of 62 enzymes needed for normal function, and correlation to increases in the aging process, increases in cancer and tumor growth by 17%, disruption of the immune system, interruption of DNA repair activity, genetic damage, lower sperm counts in men, lower testostorone in men, decreased fertility in women, and pineal gland interference. Fluoride is the active ingredient in Prozac which is a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression, OCD, Panic disorder, and bulimia nervosa. Before one can be prescribed this drug the patient must (by law) give informed consent. The American Medical Association defines informed consent as "a process of communication between a patient and physician that results in the patient's authorization or agreement to undergo a specific medical intervention." The exact wording varies from state to state but is fundamentally the same. All medical providers must inform a patient of all the potential benefits, risks, and alternatives involved in any surgical procedure, medical procedure, or other course of treatment, and must obtain the patient's written consent to proceed. The idea is that the patient has the right to make an informed decision regarding treatment. In emergency situations, there is not always time to obtain a patient's informed consent, nor is it always possible when the patient is unconscious or unable to communicate. The Food and Drug Administration allows for the use of experimental drugs or devices in emergency situations without informed consent if the community at large knows that the research into the drug or device is going on, a special committee keeps track of the results, and provisions are in place so that the experimental use can be stopped immediately if need be. It should be noted that fluoride is not regulated by the FDA, and we already know that the EPA recognizes it as a poison. So who decides? The Department of Health and Human Services has recommended

between .07 mg/L and 1.2 mg/L. Many cities being on the higher end. In 2011 the DHHS finally recognized that dental fluorosis was greatly increasing due to over exposure. At that time it was estimated that 41% of adolescents between the ages of 12-15 already had some form of this condition. The new recommendation given was no higher that .07 mg/L. This is a step in the right direction, but it is still impossible to regulate an individuals water consumption, and therefore should be completely removed as there are plenty of affordable options for those who would choose to use fluoride; among theme are many brands of fluoridated toothpastes and mouth washes. The layer of fluoride that is suppose to protect your teeth from decay is so thin, it would take 10,000 layers to equal the thickness of a single strand of hair. If one wants to prevent decay, one must kill the Bactria that are responsible for it; such as streptococcus mutans which can be killed with baking soda. Baking soda or sodium bicarbonate is an antacid. It is useful in balancing acidity levels in the mouth which can help with halitosis (bad breath). It can also aid in removing stains, preventing plaque build up, and preventing gum disease. A half tea spoon in a mouth full amount of water should do the trick. Swish it around for at least thirty seconds, but a good couple minutes is ideal. It’s not recommend to actually brush with it on your teeth as it is somewhat abrasive and over time could damage the enamel. Iodine can also be used to kill unwanted mouth bacteria such as streptococcus mutans and streptococcus sobrinus. Add a drop or two of potassium iodine to a mouth full amount of water and swish; 30 seconds is all that is needed.

Endocrine System; An Overview

Published March 31, 2018 by jjmac80

In short; the endocrine system is the collective whole of the body’s many glands which are responsible for producing various hormones and regulating multiple functions, including (but not limited to) sexual, tissue, sleep, metabolism, mood, and growth. One adaptogenic herb I use to help balance the hormones is Ashwagandha. This is the one I use https://amzn.to/2yvQOvw I split it up, and take one in the morning and one in the evening.

Signaling in the endocrine system is much slower than that of the nervous system. That is because the endocrine system operates via hormone secretions into the blood stream rather than electrochemical waves. In the same way that it can take longer for hormone signaling to activate a process, it can also take more time to halt said process. There is another form of signaling known as the paracrine which operates via molecules which are released from a paracrine cell and received by the target cell; however there are fewer functions using this system. The hormones manufactured throughout the endocrine system by the endocrine glands have specific markers which are only received by special target cells which have the proper receptors; like a key made for a lock. Hormones which do not possess the right markers will not have an effect on target cells with receptors for a different hormone. There are however trips and triggers which exist in foods, plants, chemicals, and our environment which masquerade as hormones or contain them and can in fact have an impact on the natural processes.

There are three main hormone types. Peptide hormones, Amino acid derivatives, and Lipid derivatives. There are also Eicosanoids; sometimes referred to as local hormones, but are probably best labeled as biologically active lipids such as the various prostaglandins and leukotrienes. These are fatty acid derivatives which are being studied for their link to assorted inflammations and cancers. All hormones produced by the body serve as a check and balance system to keep the body functioning properly. There are over a hundred specific peptide hormones. Some of the main ones are insulin, oxytocin, and somatotropin (human growth hormone). Although most people are likely familiar with insulin and HGH; oxytocin is one that some may be less acquainted with. This hormone has many nicknames, including the love hormone, the cuddle hormone, and the monogamy hormone. These have to do with its connection to the human bonding experience as oxytocin is released in both males and females during orgasm. However it is also responsible for contractions during the birthing process and even plays a role in the production of milk. Often when a new mother hears a baby cry or even sits in the spot where she usually feeds her baby, she will begin to produce milk. This is due to the release of oxytocin. Amino acid derivative hormones have two basic categorizes; thyroid hormones, and catecholamines. The thyroid is located just below the larynx (Adams apple) and is responsible for converting amino acid tyrosine and the chemical element iodine into thyroxine and triiodothyronine. These hormones regulate metabolism and the body’s ability to turn calories into energy. Every cell in the body is counting on the thyroid to give them what they need for proper metabolism. Catecholamines include dopamine and norepinephrine, both of which are neurotransmitters and also serve as endocrine modulators. Research has also shown the norepinephrine may also play a role in memory and conditioned learning. Norepinephrine is also synthesized from tyrosine and is converted to epinephrine (adrenaline). Lipid derivatives are hormones produced from certain types of fats like triglycerides, fatty acids, and molecules. Most come from cholesterol. The more prominent of which are the steroid type hormones. These hormones are secreted from the adrenal cortex, the ovaries, and the testes. They can also be released by the placenta during pregnancy. Androgens are the male sex hormones; the chief of which is testosterone. The female sex hormones consist of both estrogens and progestins. Progesterone is a progestin that is largely responsible for ensuring that the body is able to carry a baby full term. Also, after conception the placenta begins to secrete additional progesterone to prevent another conception from being possible by thwarting ovulation.

The endocrine system attempts to achieve homeostasis by utilizing both negative and positive feedback responses. The negative feedback response works in a way that is similar to the float device in the back of a toilet. Once the water has reached an appropriate level, the water is turned off. Likewise, once the glands have produced a suitable quantity of hormone, the brain sends a signal to switch it off. This signaling comes through the pituitary gland, but originates in the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is about the size of an almond, and works to link the nervous system and endocrine system together. Positive feedback reinforces change in the controlled condition; which means the signaling of a certain hormone actually triggers a loop response causing the release of more. As previously stated, oxytocin is responsible for inducing contractions during the birthing process, and in turn the contractions signal the release of additional oxytocin; this will continue until the baby is born.

A couple of other glands I’d like point out are the pineal gland (located near the center of the head, but slightly to the back) and the thymus (located in the chest area). The pineal gland which is light sensitive, manufactures a hormone called melatonin that is paramount in regulating the sleep/wake cycle. Melatonin (which is needed for deep sleep) is best produced in a room that is dark; the darker the better. Research has shown that melatonin plays other vital roles as well. These include scavenging free radicals, helping the body eliminate cancer cells, and fighting inflammation. Studies have also shown that a lack of melatonin can lead to quickened atrophy of the thymus which can have adverse effects on the immune system. However; supplementation is not recommended, as over time the body may adjust by limiting natural production which can create a dependency; sleep is best. When we are exposed to light the pineal gland also produces serotonin (the precursor to melatonin) which affects our mood and energy levels. Antidepressants are thought to have an impact on this natural process, but the way they function is not completely understood, and there are a range of side effects which can disrupt other operations. Another culprit which can disrupt our circadian cycle is artificial light. Blue and white lights in particular, like that of a cell phone, tablet, or computer can cause the pineal gland to perceive that it is day time, which can sometimes lead to insomnia. This is why it is a good idea to avoid these devices before bed time. Interestingly, lights of red and orange wave form (like that of a fire) do not suppress melatonin, which may give credence to the idea that man evolved around a camp fire. There is also some conjecture that the pineal gland may have a hand in producing a psychedelic chemical known as DMT, however there is no conclusive evidence as of yet, and more research needs to be conducted in this area. The thymus gland (as mentioned above) reaches maturity before we reach the end of puberty. From there it begins to shrink; this is known as involution. The shrinking of this gland happens over time, as its cells are slowly replaced by fat cells until finally there is virtually no thymus gland left by age 75. The thymus produces and matures our T-Cells, or T-lymphocytes via the hormone thymosin. These cells help to protect the body from both viral and bacterial pathogens. As we age and the thymus shrinks, so too does the body’s ability to protect itself. Other issues common to our society such as leaky gut can further compound this issue by allowing the introduction of unwanted microbes and microbial products to pass into the bloodstream which can trigger a type of chronic T-Cell stimulation called inflammaging. This is associated with diseases such as Alzheimer’s, atherosclerosis, heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and others ailments often associated with aging.

There are many conditions which can be linked to dysfunctional or sluggish operating of the endocrine system. Some of the most familiar are..

Hypothyroidism- Individuals with this disorder suffer from an under active thyroid. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, muscle weakness, increased sensitivity to cold, puffy face, slowed heart rate, pain in joints, constipation, dry skin, thinning hair, elevated blood cholesterol, and depression. Hyperthyroidism- With this condition an individuals thyroid over produces hormones sending the body into a sympathetic state; sometimes referred to as Grave’s disease, although Grave’s tends to be a bit more extreme. A good endocrinologist should be able to determine the severity of said conditions. symptoms include rapid heart beat, sudden weight loss, increased appetite, anxiety, irritability, increased sensitivity to heat, sweating, insomnia, excessive bowl movements, and trembling of the hands.

Thyroiditis- Often an extension of the above disorders, this ailment involves the inflammation and or swelling of the thyroid. This issue can be painful if brought on by trauma, or sometimes painless if associated with either hypo or hyperthyroidism. Symptoms include firm and enlarged glands which are typically visible on one or both sides of the neck, with or without pain. Other symptoms are similar to those listed above.

Thyroid cancer- Is thought to develop in follicular and parafollicular thyroid cells. There are three types of thyroid cancer; papillary, follicular, and anaplastic (PTC, FTC, and ATC). Symptoms may include nodule growths on thyroid and possibly changes in voice, as the recurrent laryngeal nerve can become irritated. Other possible symptoms can be similar to those found with hypo and hyperthyroidism.

Adrenal insufficiency- (Addison’s disorder). The adrenal glands produce cortisol and aldosterone, but with Addison’s they typically produce insufficient amounts leading to a host of symptoms, such as low blood pressure, fainting, extreme fatigue, abdominal pain, depression, a craving for salt, diarrhea and vomiting, hyperpigmentation of the skin, decreased appitite, and weight loss.

Metabolic disorder- There are many types of metabolic disorders, ranging from relatively minor to major. This mutation is typically hereditary and is passed down through families. Those who suffer from this condition have difficulty processing proteins, fats, nucleic acids, and sugars. In extreme cases fatality has occurred; although for most treatment options are available. Signs and symptoms are extremely vast.

Polycystic ovary syndrome- (PCOS) This is a condition that commonly causes swelling of the ovaries and excessive fluid retention in the local follicles. PCOS can have a direct impact on a woman’s ability to conceive. While the cause is currently unknown, it is understood that obesity can exacerbate the issue; weight loss is usually recommended. Symptoms include elevated levels of male hormones which can lead to facial hair, adult acne, and balding. These women may also experience infrequent or absent periods.

Hypoglycemia- Technically not considered a disease, but rather a condition associated with diabetes or other viral or bacterial illnesses. Low blood sugar is the largest indicator; signs of hypoglycemia include heart palpitations, pale skin, fatigue, hunger, irritation, anxiety, and a tingling sensation around the mouth.

Cushing syndrome- If the body is exposed to heightened levels of cortisol for extended periods of time (via over production or corticosteroid medication) a condition can develop in which the individual begins to gain weight around the face, belly, and upper back, while simultaneously losing fat from the arms and legs. Other attributes of this syndrome may include bone loss, high blood pressure, and eventually type 2 diabetes. Men with this condition may experience erectile dysfunction, and loss of libido, while women may experience increased growth of facial and body hair. It may also become difficult for the body to repair itself should injury occur.

Osteoporosis- This is subsequent to a thinning of the bones, and can result from low production of estrogen or a lack of proper nutrients in the diet. While there are a few symptoms which can be associated with this deficiency, such as chronic back ache, or a loss in height, there are usually no signs until a fracture or other injury occurs.

Type 1 diabetes- (often referred to as juvenile diabetes) This condition is sometimes the result of genetic inheritance, but is also thought to be linked to a viral culprit; at this time is not completely understood. With this ailment the pancreas fails to produce sufficient amounts of insulin which is needed by cells in the body in order to utilize glucose as energy. Also as I pointed out in the previous chapter, the immune system attacks the body by killing beta cells needed for manufacturing insulin. Symptoms may include extreme hunger and thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, weakness, blurred vision, and irritability.

Type 2 diabetes- With type 2, the body’s cells usually become resistant to insulin. It is possible to have low insulin production as well, but typically the former is to blame. Symptoms include, increased thirst, increased hunger, fatigue, frequent urination, poor wound healing, and hyper pigmentation in areas where the skin may have rolls or folds, such as the back of the neck. The medical community would lead you to believe that this condition is also chronic and incurable; however I have seen individuals come off of all medications and return to normal insulin sensitivity in as little as 30 days with diet and exercise.

Low testosterone- (Which may or may not be linked to hypogonadism) Symptoms include, sexual and reproductive dysfunction, decrease in bone density, decrease in muscle mass, low levels of red blood cells, and loss of feeling of well being. It’s worth noting that most low testosterone issues can be attributed to a garbage diet and a sedentary lifestyle. While it’s true that testosterone decreases with age, carrying excess fat and poor nutrition can be large contributing factors. The same can be said for many other conditions as well, Just about every issue above can be treated to some extent with proper diet and activity. Obesity is on the rise in this country. People shovel in the junk food and wonder why they feel like crap. Sadly, most would rather take a pill than take responsibility for what goes into their body. Compound that with inactivity, and millions of people are setting themselves up for a life time of suffering that could (for the most part) be avoided by making healthier choices.

The Nervous System, and How it Relates to Our Health.

Published March 30, 2018 by jjmac80

Understanding the basic operations of the nervous system is intrinsic to understanding how to achieve a state of optimum health. The Central Nervous System is made up of the brain and spine, and is responsible for sending information out to the body. The CNS is protected by the skull and the spinal column. The Peripheral Nervous System is made up of all the nerves in the body, and is responsible for sending information back to the brain. Throughout the body are Neurons. They are tasked with the communication of the entire body. There are three main groups. Sensory, Motor, and Inter. The sensory type carry impulses from organs to the CNS. The motor type carry information from the CNS to the muscles and glands. The inter help to connect other neurons in the brain and spinal column and also carry information between the sensory and motor type. To give you an idea of just how many neurons the body holds, the brain alone contains around a thousand billion. Neurons communicate via electrical and chemical signals. From time to time these signals can become compromised. If the blockage turns chronic, proper function of the body’s ability to heal and self regulate can lead to a wide array of health problems. Blockages can occur due to physical or chemical interruption. The body’s natural state is one of health. Within the nervous system are two primary functioning systems; the Sympathetic and, the Parasympathetic. The sympathetic system functions as our fight or flight response. This part of our body’s system works to keep us alive under times of stress. It raises our blood pressure, signals the liver to break glycogen down to glucose, and gives us temporary bursts of energy. The parasympathetic system is the state in which our body perceives safety and signals itself to heal, regenerate, grow, and repair. Since the body is self regulating, it is normal for us to experience a mix of both systems throughout the day. If your day is more stressful, it’s likely that you will subsist in a sympathetic state. If you spend your day in a more relaxed environment, it’s likely that you will spend a greater amount of time in a parasympathetic state; fluctuation is normal and healthy.

Because the body is naturally self regulating, getting stuck in either a sympathetic or parasympathetic state can result in complications. There are a multitude of reasons why an individual could experience either chronic state. As noted above one’s environment plays a large roll. Someone who struggles with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other forms of anxiety may become stuck in sympathetic state. There are even some medications which are designed to trigger this particular state. Being stuck in a sympathetic state can deplete the body’s adrenal glands while simultaneously restricting blood flow to other important organs and nerves in the body. If these other organs do not receive the nutrient rich blood needed their function becomes compromised and can lead to various problems including (but not limited to) hormone imbalance, insomnia, low immune function, muscle pain, reduced saliva production, and poor digestion. The breaking down of food begins with saliva, and continues in the stomach. Poor circulation in this area means your body will not be able to produce the right balance of acid needed to break down the foods you consume. Low acid levels (contrary to what most believe) are responsible for acid reflux. GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease is a more extreme version of this. Billions of dollars are spent on medications for this issue in America alone. Chronic GERD can lead to scarring, constriction, and even cancer of the esophagus. It can also wreak havoc on the bowels by way of IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). Stomach acid production decreases with age further compounding the issue. Medications; while seemingly helpful, do not repair the problem, but rather serve to disrupt it further while opening the door to other unwanted side effects, including nausea, constipation, diarrhea, and aluminum toxicity. Aluminum binds to the phosphate in the body, and can result in low phosphate levels leading to even more issues including muscle weakness, loss of appetite, and extreme tiredness. Another issue with poor digestion that may surprise you is low serotonin levels. Serotonin is used by the brain as a neurotransmitter, but did you know that up to 90% of it is produced in the gut and digestive track? Tiny microbes in the GI track process the foods we eat and modulate this important chemical. Serotonin plays a roll in numerous functions of the body, some of which are brain cell operation, mood, memory, sleep, sexual desire, cardiovascular function, muscle movement, and even social behavior.

By now you are starting to see how intricately linked our body’s inner-workings are, and how important it is to restore balance by finding and correcting the problem instead of sweeping it under the rug by treating the symptoms. After reading about the dangers of becoming chronically sympathetic, you may be thinking that the parasympathetic state is where you want to be; however the body has two systems for a reason, and both are imperative to our health. The goal then, is not to become chronic in either.

While it’s true that the parasympathetic state is more conducive to healing and growth, getting stuck in this state chronically could force the sympathetic to over compensate leading to erratic cardiovascular difficulties. During a fight or flight situation, extreme fear or trauma may cause what is called a freeze state. When this happens, the body may respond by slowing the heart rate, causing the individual to pass-out. It’s essentially a hibernation type state in which the body becomes immobile until the perceived danger has gone. This occurs when the danger is sensed to be so great, that the surge of energy provided by the sympathetic is considered insufficient and gives way to this extreme parasympathetic function. This is the body’s last ditch effort to defend itself. Though it is less likely that an individual will become stuck in the parasympathetic, it can occur. Symptoms could show up as brain fog, low blood pressure, slow heart rate, and increased fuel storage. With increased fuel storage, the body reserves and stores fats and nutrients for times of scarcity rather than make use of them for immediate energy; this can lead to unwanted weight gain. Generally speaking the parasympathetic is the preferred state. In contrast to the sympathetic state, the parasympathetic allows for proper digestion by stimulating the secretion of digestive enzymes in order to prepare itself to receive food. It also allows for digested food to pass more easily through the digestive track and unlocks fuel reserves to produce energy; thereby creating an ideal environment for growth and repair. Here are some dietary enzymes I recommend supplementing with https://amzn.to/2DbLCkg to help this process along with another powerful substance called Fulvic Acid https://amzn.to/2yvX6Lp

When the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems are both functioning properly, they work in tandem to keep us happy and healthy. An individual with both systems in good order will find that they are able to rest and relax. They should also be able to fight and or react to perceived dangers if needed. However, the functioning of the body and CNS are only as good as the food one puts into it. Foods that do not provide a full spectrum of nutrients force the body to assume a sympathetic state to compensate for the things it is lacking. Insulin has a part to play in both the CNS and PNS. When food enters the body insulin helps it to decide what to do with it by communicating information which will help the body decide weather to metabolize it into energy or store it. Obesity and diabetes are potentially related to the intake of garbage food that the body essentially doesn’t know what to do with. Hydrogenated oils, artificial sweeteners, synthetic foods, and processed foods are difficult for the body to recognize and make good use of and therefore are not conducive to optimum health. In other words, you cannot put a bunch of man made junk into your body’s system and expect it to function properly. Further more, doing so for extended periods of time will lead to lack of nutrients and minerals, excess fat, inflammation, and a whole host of other health problems.

Some ailments associated with the nervous system.

Cerebral Palsy- Caused by damage to the brain, the results of which are impaired speech and difficulty with physical balance.

Bell’s Palsy- affects the muscles of the face, and often results in partial paralysis of one side of the face. While the exact cause is still unclear, inflammation or compression of the 7^th cranial nerve seems to be what causes the symptoms. It’s thought to be initiated by a virus and is sometimes associated with herpes, HIV, Epstein-Bar virus, sarcoidosis, and sometimes chickenpox and shingles.

Meningitis- Caused by a virus or bacteria that triggers inflammation of the meninges. Meninges are membranes which line the inside of the skull and vertebral canal, closing in the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms include fever, nausea, and vomiting.

Sciatica- A condition where the sciatic nerve becomes compromised, (usually through injury) resulting in lower back pain which can radiate to the legs and sometimes cause weakness of the legs.

Encephalitis- Inflammation of the brain cause by a virus. Early symptoms include headache and fever. If left untreated, it can lead to troubles with speaking and memory loss.

Parkinson’s- This ailment is generally associated with aging. Deterioration of neurons in the brain which produce dopamine begin to dissipate, leading to erratic brain activity and the recognizable physical symptoms of the disease. Genetics and environmental factors can play a role as well.