Posts tagged as “#wellness”

ACCEPTANCE OF SELF

Published February 20, 2020 by jjmac80

“Be confident. Too many days are wasted comparing ourselves to
others and wishing to be something we aren’t. Everybody has their
own strengths and weaknesses, and it is only when you accept
everything you are- and aren’t- that you will truly succeed.”

-unknown.

Before continuing, its important to
accept that you are not perfect, but rather perfectly imperfect and
unique. Cut yourself some slack if you make a mistake. Anyone who has
ever tried something new, or tried to quit something unhealthy has
made a mistake. One must offer themselves grace and forgiveness, but
more than that, one must accept themselves for who they are. If you
truly want to be happy, then it will do you no good to spend any
amount of time putting yourself down.

Most of us have things about
ourselves we think could be better. Society and media contribute a
great deal to our image of self. Girls in magazines are airbrushed to
have a particular type of body, the education system caters to a
certain type of mind, success (as our culture sees it) is measured by
our level of income and number of possessions. If you are not slim
and symmetrical, then you are ugly. If you do not make A’s in your
class’s, then you are dumb. If you aren’t raking in the cash and
driving a fancy car, then you are a failure. These are the lies we
are fed from day one; Enough! There is so much beauty around us,
there are so many possibilities, and there are so many definitions of
success. If you are going to make it on this journey, then you have
got to start loving yourself for who you are. That being said, one
should always leave room for personal growth as this is the ultimate
way to add to the depth of your soul and personality, hence the
previous bit on learning.

One can have things about
themselves they wish to improve on and still have acceptance of self.
For example, someone who is trying to lose weight can love themselves
for who they are today, while also working towards the goal of being
a more fit version of themselves. Along the way there will also be
many opportunities for them to practice giving themselves grace when
struggles arise. Someone who may not have a knack for math, but
perhaps possess a passion for art, can accept themselves for their
specific talents and be okay with not having gifts in other areas.
Someone who lives in a tiny house and chooses to live off the land
can be defined as successful. It’s okay to not want the same things
as others and to color outside of the lines. It’s okay to be
different than others as well. In fact it’s good that you are,
because if we where all exactly the same, there would be nothing to
learn from each other and no one to challenge us; therefore there
would be little growth and people in general would become a bore.
There is no other individual that is exactly like you; embrace your
uniqueness.

The other thing we as people do too
much of, is sensor ourselves. It’s almost as if we have a different
personality for everyone we talk to. We are constantly trying to
uphold several images. With your parents you are a certain way, with
your good friends you are another. While at church you may be all
please and thank you, but when at work Monday you may be all shut-up
and fuck-you. It’s exhausting to keep up with being someone or
something you are not. It’s possible to expend so much effort
keeping up images that even you aren’t sure who you really are. As
with all things, there needs to some balance. If there is a group of
people that you are normally quiet with, maybe speak up a little. If
there is a group of people that you are normally outspoken with,
maybe listen a little more. If you find that when around certain
people you are afraid to just be you, then it may be time to think
about finding some people who allow you to be authentic, and who
in-turn are also authentic.

The point here is we must stop worrying so much about what other people think of us; we don’t need to be people pleasers. You don’t need everyone to be happy with you; you need to be happy with you. Start living your life for you, not for others. Start accepting who you are and who you can become, and let go of who you are not.

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FINDING BALANCE

Published January 22, 2020 by jjmac80

FINDING BALANCE

“The secret to life

is
finding the right balance to everything you do”.

-Unknown.

Balance
is all around us. One merely needs to step out side and have a look
around. The day is chased by the night, and the night is chased by
the day. The seasons lead and follow one another, like four ancient
friends riding a merry-go-round. The trees produce oxygen bringing
life to every breathing creature, and the breath of those creatures
returns to the trees as carbon-dioxide where it is turned back into
oxygen once again. The earth and moon move through space like
professional dance partners keeping time with the song of the
universe and holding each others gaze. There are many more examples
of balance in nature, but what about us; where can we see balance in
our own lives?

When
we think of balance today, we generally think about our schedules.
How do I get the kids to school in the morning, get to work on time,
and then somehow make it back to pick them up in eight hours? How can
I make time to pursue my education, excel at work, and hold down a
committed relationship? These are all good questions, and each of
them certainly have their place, but first there must be balance on a
more basic level. There are four fundamental areas to consider when
seeking balance in our lives; social,
physical,
mental,
and emotional.
Each of them is important to finding our equilibrium, and each is
essential to our happiness.

There
are many aspects of the social self, time with friends, interactions
with coworkers, being part of a church, participating in team sports,
and so on. Anytime you are interacting with one or more other
individuals, you are experiencing your social self. That is, the
person you become when you are with a particular individual or group
of individuals.

The
physical self has to do with your external appearance as well as your
internal health. Many factors play a role in this aspect of self. As
noted in a previous chapter, genetics play a large part, as they
provide the very frame work for your appearance and function, but
there are other factors as well. Diet and exercise, makeup, jewelry,
attire, and hair style can all contribute to this element of self.

The
mental self is vast. It is a medley of everything from our capacity
to learn to our ability to think, process, and reason. It has much to
do with our attitude, self awareness, natural talents, and our
general intelligence.

Finally,
there is the emotional self. This portion of self is complex and can
be quite difficult to master and or understand. It’s possible for
multiple individuals to have different feelings about the same event.
Due to the vast web of social media and other technological
advancements such as texting, many have become detached from their
emotional self. Some choose to bottle their feelings, never allowing
themselves to experience them. While others seek to bury or drown
them by way of drug and alcohol use.

Balance
within each category is crucial. For example; if you choose not to
eat as a way to lose weight and in order to appear healthier, your
internal health suffers and you are if effect out of balance. If you
choose to lose weight through healthy diet and exercise, then you
will be more in balance. If you make the choice to suppress your
sadness so that others will believe that you are happy rather than
experience your feelings and process them in a healthy manner; then
again you will be out of balance and you cannot be truly happy.

It
is equally important to have balance between each aspect of self. If
you spend all of your time focusing on your social self by going to
clubs with friends and getting trashed, it’s likely that your
physical self will suffer as a result of toxins, and poor nutrition.
Your mental self could suffer from lack of sleep, and your emotional
self may experience highs and lows as a negative facet of all of the
above. If you were to focus entirely on your physical self using only
healthy means, you may have balance within that category, but you may
also still be out of balance as a whole. Perhaps you are spending all
of your free time with your headphones in at the gym and your social
life has become nonexistent. Every individuals needs vary to some
degree, and the above examples (while somewhat extreme) are meant to
convey a basic truth. Balance is intrinsically linked to our overall
state of well being. I would also argue that our spiritual
self
is very much something to be examined. While many decisions in life
require nothing more than logic, there are many times when having a
good balance of mind and heart intelligence will lead to the more
satisfactory outcome.

A
simple way to be more intentional about having balance, is to write
down each main element of self and list in each category what you are
doing to improve in that area. Then think about how much time you
give to each of them, and decide if you are content with the way you
are balancing them. If you are not content, or simply feel there is
room for improvement; try to come up with some healthy ways to do so.
If you have been stuffing down your emotions, perhaps consider
counsel or setting some time aside for self reflection. If your
mental state is one of stress, maybe find some ways you can unwind,
like making time for positive physical, or social activities to
relieve said stress and restore your balance.

As I have said before; if you make more time to spend with yourself, building an intrapersonal relationship with you, then you will have a better sense of self and you will be better equipped to recognize when something feels off. Hence you will have the tools needed to correct course and get back to being a happier more balanced you.

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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.

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)

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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.

Is MSG bad for you?

Published April 10, 2018 by jjmac80

Is MSG bad for you?

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is produced naturally in the body when we eat foods containing glutamate; it is an amino acid and an important neurotransmitter. It is necessary at naturally occurring levels, and can even be found in breast milk. Some important functions of glutamate in the body include proper brain, gut, muscle, and immune function, as well as bone development. There are many foods containing this nutrient; foods with higher concentrations include cheese, fish sauce, tomatoes, walnuts, mushrooms, grape juice, broccoli, meats, peas, and more. Other foods such as corn, wheat starch, tapioca flour, molasses and beet sugar are often used in the manufacturing of MSG.

The glucose is first isolated, then mixed with microorganisms which consume the glucose and produce glutamic acid. It is then de-colorized and chelated using (in some cases) charcoal filtration. The liquid is then crystallized in an evaporator before being completely dried. Once dried it is ready to be added to food as a flavor enhancer. MSG in moderation isn’t necessarily toxic. However, when ingested in higher concentrations it can potentially lead to neurological damage in the form of epilepsy, Alzheimer, ALS, autism and depression. Excessive glutamate may cause damage to pancreatic cells by crippling their ability to produce insulin which could increase one’s risk of developing diabetes. In fact In order to test diabetes medications on rats, scientists use high levels of MSG to encourage subjects to eat more and become obese. MSG is an effective excitotoxin, it stimulates the brain's reward system making the foods it has been added to difficult to resist, not just for animals, but humans as well. Studies are currently being done using glutamate blockers to treat migraines as there have been discoveries of a correlation between glutamate blood levels and activation of pain receptors associated with these extreme headaches. MSG has the unique ability to make just about anything taste good. As a result it has been added to a plethora of foods, making it quite challenging to avoid, and quite easy to over do. If you choose to avoid MSG, it’s important to know that many companies are finding ways to fool the consumer by using food additives containing high levels of this substance, but which go by an alternative name, such as hydrolyzed vegetable protein, autolyzed yeast, hydrolyzed yeast, or yeast extract. Insuring that you are getting ample amounts of antioxidants in your diet can help to counteract many of the negative effects associated with the over consumption of this substance; lycopene in particular has been found to be especially helpful. This is the one I take. https://amzn.to/2PWk3OQ It has also been found that individuals who tend to have a heightened sensitivity to MSG also have low levels of magnesium, and or high levels of calcium. Many people are low in magnesium due to an unbalanced diet and consumption of foods which have been grown in nutrient poor soils. Glutamate and calcium are both excitatory and toxic when in excess. Magnesium helps by protecting the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDA) from being over activated and preventing cell death. The NMDA receptor has roles to play in many areas including learning, memory, and pain. Research has also shown that MSG and Trans-fat can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver. A combination of vitamin C and E have been shown to dramatically help repair this condition, and protect the liver from further damage. I will link in the rest of the products I use. Thanks for reading! https://amzn.to/2S9y10t. https://amzn.to/2DB5Pzn. https://amzn.to/2S3i8s8.

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.