Stop Demonizing Food!

Dr. Mercola wrote an article about *Wheat* that bothers me.  Though there maybe a correlation between consumption of wheat and poor health; there are a few things that need to be taken into account.  First, when we use correlational findings to find causation we run the risk of missing out on the whole story; and in this case several variables aren't being acknowledged.  One HUGE variable that people don't seem to acknowledge is that most Americans have a damaged gut and simply CANNOT digest wheat because of that.  Another issue that I was discussing with two other women the other day is that wheat is no longer what it used to be.  There was even GMO wheat found in Oregon and no one knows where it came from! 

We need to stop demonizing food!  Wheat; REAL (organic) whole wheat is food.  It IS possible that real wheat no longer exist in America; I can accept that.  To say, however, that wheat is bad news or bad for the health is simply not true.  Some of us need to heal before consuming it and some may never be able to consume it, but that doesn't make it bad. 

Whew!

I don't believe it, but we're back!  I mentioned that we will be expanding, but the deletion of this blog was NEVER in the plans.  I inquired about it and to my surprise we're back.   I'm very relieved.  This will make the expansion much easier.

Expansion!

I'm sure you've noticed my lack of activity in the last couple of months.  Well, there is good reason for that.  You see, BWMFs is growing beyond that which I've envisioned!  I may even be moving BWMFs to another location and soon.  If I do, when I do, I'll be sure to alert all of my much valued readers of the new web address.  I will keep all of the information at this location up to ensure that everyone is aware of the move, and I will personally alert those who have linked to my site so that they can make a new link to the new location.

Blogger has served me well for the three years that BWMFs has been around, however, what I want to offer has become too big for Blogger and it's almost time to move on.  Even though this is FAR from goodbye, I want to thank everyone for reading.  I'm excited about the next step and everything the Lord has in store for me!

Candida Cleanse

The GAPS diet is working, but this nutritionist actually gave me some pointers that I may be able to try along with GAPS.  Candida is a pest.  When you fight it, it fights back.  This individual gave some pointers that I could use.  Some of her suggestions aren't GAPS friendly.  Many have found relief via the GAPS diet so I'm going to stick with it, but her suggestions may be helpful too.

My Gut Bugs

I've mentioned that I've been on the intro GAPS diet several times.  In the intro part of the diet raising your gut bug intake is KEY to healing.  I've been pouring fermented whey and sauerkraut juice into almost all of my soups; I've made a nice fermented coconut soda (yum-may!) that I sip on throughout the day; and I've been eating a LOT of kefir (from raw cow and raw goat milk).  I've even made fermented fish.  I've got to say, I was pretty scared at first, but I had some for breakfast and WOW!  It's actually pretty good, I've got to say!

I've been seeing improvements in my health like I couldn't imagine too!  I've had so much energy this week.  I mean, I was able to get up in the morning without feeling REALLY groggy or sick (which happened very often in the past).  I'm starting to see that getting out of bed in the morning ISN'T suppose to be that painful after all.  I get MORE out of my day then ever.  My skin isn't dry and flaky like it used to be.  And I can see that the Candida is finally going away... FINALLY!

The only problem is the die-off.  That drove me crazy at times and it's something that is keeping me from traveling for a while too.  But I am determined to conquer this and get my health back!  So bring on the gut bugs!

How the USDA Can Make or Break Public Health

It makes me sad that the US government tries to make such a strong case against people and families taking care of themselves.  They say that they do these things for our safety... really?  How can that be possible when the FDA approves of things and the CDC even pushes things that have historically made many people ill?

I'm sure that there are individuals who work for the FDA, CDC, USDA and for our new socialized healthcare system that believe that these organizations are well needed.  I'm sure that they are ALL organizations that can be useful if there wasn't (what often appears to be) a destructive agenda.

In my opinion, these organizations have, at least in the last 15 years but perhaps longer, done more harm than good.  I wish parents, and in a few cases individuals, were allowed more control over their health and the health of their families.

How the USDA Can Make or Break Public Health

The 9 Irrefutable Benefits of Cholesterol in the Diet

The Healthy Home Economist hit the nail on the head here.  Fat and cholesterol both have unfortunate reputations in today's America.  We fail to remember that they are nutrients!  We were so grossly misinformed of the "dangers" of fat and cholesterol.  Usually, the health issues that are said to be caused from fat and cholesterol are caused by sugar.

High fat foods are most important in the GAPS diet.  Especially in the second stage of the introductory diet.  It heals the gut like nothing else!  And no wonder... fat cell wall are almost all lipids.

In the article below, the Healthy Home Economist goes more into detail about the benefits of cholesterol.  According to my prior research on cholesterol, she hit the nail on the head!

The 9 Irrefutable Benefits of Cholesterol in the Diet

Intro GAPS

I'm finally doing the intro GAPS diet; I'm doing it by the book and I can already feel it working.  It's also MUCH easier than I thought it was going to be.  I make a pot of soup and just eat and snack on it all day long.  I stopped drinking the tea recommended to me by my nutritionist months ago, and then started drinking it again about a month ago.  I realized again, that it seems to be doing more harm than good, so I'm ditching it.  I will be looking to drink the ginger tea as instructed by Dr. Natasha.

The reason why I think one stays on the intro for a while is because they are trying to build their gut flora.  I'm able to eat MORE probiotic food and juice than one is suppose to on the introduction diet which is awesome because it is a head start.  Another advantage is the anti-fungal oil tablets that my doctor gave me. Between that and the massive amount of probiotic foods and drinks that I'm ingesting, I'm going to be on the second stage of this diet relatively soon regardless of the fact that I just started about a week ago.

I already can see that I will not need to be on this diet for very much longer.  I'm very excited about that.  I've been on this diet for SO long and I thought that I would never be able to progress.  Now, I'm mostly focused on healing my gut lining which may happen a little more quickly than expected because of the HUGE amount of probiotics in my diet.  I look forward to the progress!

Why I Never Consume Colloidal Silver

I have a large bottle of colloidal silver that I almost never use.  I've actually ingested it a few times, and each time my health got worse.  Finally, my doc told me to stop taking it.  It's a heavy metal, I knew this, but it said that it was safe to ingest!  Then I read the article below which made things clearer to me.

I used to think:  So what do I do now?  I have this BIG bottle of colloidal silver that I can't use... or can I?  I can't ingest it, but there are times when I need an external antimicrobial agent.  For cuts, scrapes and ear infections, colloidal silver is AWESOME!  Yet, used in these ways it will not kill your beneficial flora or infest your body with heavy metals.  I even poured some in a spray bottle to sanitize my hands on the go!

Why I Never Consume Colloidal Silver

Happy Independence Day!

Happy Independence Day everyone!  Below is Google's tribute to this holiday, but I liked it so much I decided to post it as well!  Enjoy the barbecues and fireworks today!

Ting!

In Jamaica there is a grapefruit soda called "Ting" that as a child, I couldn't drink enough of!  I went to Jamaica the last time equipped with information and conviction about healthy foods and healthy diets and was shocked and upset to see the ingredients in Ting was not just grapefruit juice, carbonated water and a sweetener.  Yes, I even expected a sweetener!  I didn't expect artificial flavoring and coloring both of which it contained.

Well, amen, I learned how to make my own Ting.  Above is a picture of MY finished product.  When I make homemade Ting it ALWAYS fizzes up something fierce!  I had to "burp" this batch twice after refrigeration.  As you can see in the picture, it was STILL bubbling up.  I made this with grapefruit juice and a ginger bug.  Below is Sarah, the Healthy Home Economist, teaching how to make a ginger bug.  Pour about a fourth of a cup of the ginger bug into about 6 cups of grapefruit juice, cap and wait for one to three days.  I warn you though, it may NOT allow you to wait three days!  This was fizzing like this after just a few hours, so I'm allowing it to finish fermenting in the fridge.

Let me just say that this soda is GOOD!  I enjoy it very much and because it has healthy cultures in it I'm allowed to drink it on my GAPS diet.  Try this at home!

 

Gut, Thyroid and Mental Health

I'm realizing more and more that most chronic illness, including mental illness, starts in the gut.  MANY psychologists and psychiatrists have said that when gut problems are taken care of they have seen things as bad as schizophrenia disappear.  There is no need to pump people with prozac and Thorazine (REALLY nasty stuff, Thorazine) all they need to do is heal.

Many THYROID problems start with the gut too.  So everything this doctor has to say confirms everything that I have recently learned about gut health and overall health.

Optimizing Your Gut Bacteria Can Help Reduce Acne

I recently posted an article that discussed how eliminating gluten will help acne.  Remember how I said that any condition where the symptoms are alleviated by eliminating gluten or dairy is most likely a result of leaky gut syndrome?  This is how I can tell immediately that someone has leaky gut syndrome.  I immediately refer them to a nutritionist and the GAPS diet always helps them right away, it's amazing... but not surprising!

Well, here is clue number two that acne is simply an end result of a damaged gut.  Here is an article that says that probiotics can help reduce acne.  Probiotics, huh?  Man, I hate it when I'm right! :-D

Optimizing Your Gut Bacteria Can Help Reduce Acne

Make A Bee Waterer And Help Hydrate Our Pollinators

I never think about how bees need water too!  They DO work hard and they do SO much for us, but I didn't realize that sometimes the workers need a little water cooler break.  The video and article below give some tips on how you could create a watering station for them.

If you have any additional ideas comments are welcome!



Make A Bee Waterer And Help Hydrate Our Pollinators

No-Grain Diet Clears up Acne for Good

Whenever one has a condition that improves or clears up when dairy and/or grain is removed from the diet, it is a clue that there is an issue with the gut.

I still find it astonishing that there are SO many diseases and conditions that could be cleared up with a gut healing protocol like the GAPS diet.  There are many diseases that people think are genetic or chronic; but when dairy or grain is removed the symptoms go away.  This is a great temporary solution, however, if you really want to TREAT it to a cure; start a gut healing protocol.  GAPS and BED are the best that I've seen; but I encourage you to do the research and choose the one best for you.

No-Grain Diet Clears up Acne for Good 8/23/03

How to Speed Gut Healing and Shorten Time on the GAPS Diet

Sometimes it takes a while before the GAPS diet clears up problems.  This could be a real bummer for many.  A girlfriend of mine just started the diet and she has been discouraged on it because it just isn't going the way she had hoped.  It's also easy to fall off the wagon now and again for many including her.

Well, fear not!  Below there is an article with some tips on how to speed your journey toward healing and bring your GAPS walk to a quick close.  Enter Sarah, the Healthy Home Economist.

How to Speed Gut Healing and Shorten Time on the GAPS Diet

Three Reasons to Eat Turmeric - Dr. Weil

Turmeric is amazing food!  I love, love, love curry, but my new favorite treat is turmeric milk.  Dr. Weil only named THREE of the many, many benefits of eating turmeric.

Besides being an herb that makes my chicken and chick peas delicious, it has served as a healer for me and others.  I remember a time when I had horrible back pain.  After two weeks of drinking turmeric milk, my back pain temporarily vanished.  Once I stopped drinking the turmeric milk habitually, it came back.  Now, don't get me wrong, there was a problem that needed to be addressed and once it was, I had no more back pain for good.  However, I had to note that it was remarkable that this food was a pain medication on top of everything else.  A farmer also shared a story about when his livestock became sick.  He couldn't give it medication to kill the pathogen because it was a certified organic livestock.  He really thought that he would lose the poor sick bird.  One day, he started to put turmeric in its feed.  He was SO surprised; but the chicken started to heal miraculously! Our fethered friend was back with her pack before she knew it!

When I came across the article below, I decided to post it even though three reasons don't even scrape the surface of the rockstar food that turmeric is.  The three reasons that Dr. Weil has, however, are three GOOD reasons.  Enjoy the article!

Three Reasons to Eat Turmeric - Dr. Weil

Natural Jewelry Cleaner

Finally!  There is a way to clean your jewelry to a shine without the nasty chemical infested stuff.  You can use items from your kitchen for most of these cleaners!

In the past, I've used toothpaste to clean my silver. It was the only thing to do with the left over fluoride toothpastes that I don't use anymore.  But now that I'm out of that, I have another method of cleaning to try and I'm SO grateful.  I don't wear a lot of jewelry and I don't wear it often, but now I have quick and easy ways to make what I do wear shine before putting it on!

Let me know what you think of this!


  

Ginger Yummies!

Ginger is one of my favorite treats on the planet.  Not only is it just simply good stuff, but having a history of gastrointestinal problems, it was also medicinal for me and soothing for my stomach.  There was a time when I kept ginger candy in my purse because of these occational attacks of nausea that I used to get. I'm SO glad those days are over!  But I still love that gingery flavor!

I was so happy when I came across the recipe below!  I added it to my Pinterest, but I did't post it on FB because there is one aspect that bothered me... sugar.  I'm simply not in the habit of promoting recipes that utilize sugar except for fermented foods like kefir or kombucha.  I wonder if there is any alternative; maybe maple sugar or crystalized honey?  I'm not sure yet, but you can be sure that I will be doing some experimentation!  How I would love to make my own ginger candy!

If you have any alternatives to the sugar in this recipe, please let me know in the comments below!  (Click *here* for the recipe)

June's Book of the Month: Probiotic Revolution

A girlfriend of mine recently started the GAPS diet and she is loving it!  Her medication was reduced, she has energy like never before and she is completely inspired and telling everyone about it.  She read the Probiotics Revolution and got me interested in it.  I thought that it would be a fabulous book for June as you are growing vegetables and growing the food that you will be jarring in October.

I still make all kinds of probiotic foods.  I intend on becoming an expert on the topic.  If it helps MY body, I know that it will help others as well.

How to Make and Use an Onion Poultice for Congestion

Now here is an idea that I've never ever known about, but I'm willing to bet that it works!  This is something that anyone can use as a part of a healing treatment for minor colds and flu.  You could probably use this for more severe stuff too, but it would be wise to simultaneously be under a doctor's care.



Have fun with this!



How to Make and Use an Onion Poultice for Congestion

The World According to M0nsant0

I felt inspired to post this video again.  It's been a while since I've seen it and M0nsant0 has come up in conversation a couple of times in the last few days.  This is the BEST introduction to who M0nsant0 is, what they have done through the last 100 years and most of all WHY people are so passionate about fighting them.  Without seed, without bees... basically, without food, we will not survive and destroying food is exactly what they threaten to do.  But why?  Who would DO something so deplorable?  The answer is in this documentary.

Here is the full length movie for you to watch again.  This is an old video, but not much has changed except for battles that were won on both sides.  For those of you who STILL don't know what kind of company M0nsant0 is, why they are unique and so fervently despised around the entire world; this is for you.

How to Prevent and Eliminate Fibroids Naturally

The article below has additional information on how to aid shrinking fibroids via dietary practices.

Dr. Tori Hudson also suggested a diet high in fiber and enzymes.  There is even a supplement (Vytalzyme) that many women said was very helpful when trying to reduce fibroids.  Diindolylmethane is a compound found in cruciferous vegetables (cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, kale, bok choy...); it helps the body to send the excess estrogen out.  There was a supplement called DIM that is the same compound concentrated in a pill form that women take to stop "feeding" the fibroids.

There is more information in the article below that you may find helpful and enlightening.


How to Prevent and Eliminate Fibroids Naturally

13 Evidence-Based Medicinal Properties of Coconut Oil

No, I will not shut up about coconut oil.  THERE is a powerhouse food if I've ever seen or eaten one.  The oil has astounding benefits from nutritional to medicinal.  Amazing stuff!

There is only ONE oil that I fry my food in and that's coconut oil.  When I do oil pulling (for my teeth) I use coconut oil.  I used to use coconut oil on my skin too.  My mother, a retired nurse, upon reading new research about coconut oil has commented that she wished she knew about its disinfectant properties when she was practicing because it could have supplemented many different things that she did for her patients.

Well, if you're a coconut oil fan like me, then you'll LOVE the article below.  Enjoy!

13 Evidence-Based Medicinal Properties of Coconut Oil

50 Uses for Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide was a wonderful discovery for me when I was trying to switch to more eco safe cleaners.  A tablespoon of peroxide in a spray bottle of water will clean and disinfect EVERYTHING!  I also use peroxide in my laundry and in a detoxification bath (if one of us is ill).  I used to also use just a few drops of peroxide in the dishwasher as well, but now I just use sodium percarbonate (a washing soda and peroxide combo in a powder form; a main ingredient in oxyclean).

So that is three different ways that I use peroxide.  Below is a link to an article that outdid me!  There is a list of 50 different uses for peroxide.  Check it out!

50 Uses for Hydrogen Peroxide

April's Book: Real Food All Year

I look forward to reading this book.  I've been dreaming of having year round gardens and researching ways to have just that.  Aquaponics is one way to do it, however, there is still so much that I need to learn about it.  A greenhouse is kind of necessary for the year round aspect of gardening too.  To be honest, I'm closer to having the greenhouse than I am to having the aquaponic system.

This author talks about eating seasonally which is something that I've never thought of.  Certain foods grow at certain times per year.  Enjoy the video and the book.

Beware the "Unhealthy Teeth" Myths

Be VERY careful of the "studies have shown" phrase.  While MOST of what the article below (see link below) says is true, for example, they failed to mention a few things that are important.  The info in the article is all based on a correlation study and the article failed to discuss a connection of two VERY important variables.  One was kind of mentioned the other was not.

Yes, there is a LINK between healthy teeth and overall health, that is true.  There is a link.  This doesn't mean that bad teeth are the cause of bad health nor does it mean that dental care will fix the problems with the rest of your body.  The author of this article didn't take into account that granulated sugar and ingesting fluoride (fluoridated water or fluoridated products like fluoride toothpaste) can cause the EXACT same problems mentioned AND causes bad teeth.  I'll give some credit because the article did advise avoiding sugar... but as a suggestion to save your teeth.  It said nothing about sugar and it's connection to bad teeth AND overall health.

Again, this isn't to say that the article isn't true, there IS some truth to it.  Just be careful of doctors and dentists using such information to bait you.  I've seen pamphlets using this information to sell people fluoride products (which causes bad teeth AND illnesses like osteoporosis) and other services in order to achieve the healthy teeth.  But few want to talk about the dangers of fluoride and granulated sugar in regards to overall health.  These are two deadly substances that should never get past one's lips.


Unhealthy Teeth Article

17 Apart: Growing Celery Indoors: Never Buy Celery Again

Here is more info on growing your own food.  I'm always ready to hear more info on this subject.  I'm a very ready and willing student.  I hope to be able to raise at least a fraction of the food that I eat within the next few years.

17 Apart: Growing Celery Indoors: Never Buy Celery Again:

Justice for Justina

I would like to dedicate a post to a young Miss Justina Pelletier who is being held prisoner at Boston Children's Hospital for reasons that still baffle the family and many passionate supporters.

Here is a quick review of the story:  Justina Pelletier has mitochondrial disease (a very rare disease).  For most of her life she was treated at Tuffs Medical Center.  Their treatment allowed her to take control of the disease to the point where most wouldn't know that she's ill.  To the left is a picture of her when she used to do ice skating competitions.  Does she look like someone who is sick?  But when she was struck with a very bad case of the flu, she was taken to Boston Children's Hospital.  A doctor who was 7 months out of medical school gave Justina a new diagnosis... a psychological disorder.  She was taken off of her medication and when her parents tried to pull her from the hospital the Department of Children and Families (aka DCF) was called.  Once they stepped in, Lou and Linda Pelletier (Justina's parents) were immediately stripped of their rights to making decisions for their daughter and escorted forcefully out of the hospital.  There was a gag order imposed on the family as well.  Lou, fearing the life of his daughter, decided to tell the world what is happening to his daughter anyway.  For fourteen months, Linda and Lou have engaged in an exhausting battle for their much loved daughter.  Justina has held on for this long, but the Pelletier family fears that Justina is dying and are desperate to reclaim their parental rights and bring Justina home to the doctors whom have treated her to the healthy state that she was above.

Her supporters beg for prayers and MORE support still.  It's because of the outcry from the nation why DCF rescinded their decision to revoke her parent's rights to see her.  Whatever the difference you feel that you could make, please do it.  Justina needs to get home NOW!

To give your support:
Justina's Page
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Fibroid Shrinking Follow Up

I've had questions about my issue with fibroids and the supplement that I've used to get rid of them.  I decided to write a post to inform where I am in that journey.

My fibroids are smaller, however, I learned some things on my journey and I ran into trouble because of my GAPS diet.  If you do GAPS, BED or Paleo, you may run into some trouble because of the meat eating.  You see, meat builds fibroids and vegetables shrink them.  Because of my leaky gut, I'm not able to absorb nutrients very well.  So I HAD to do GAPS first. 

One thing that I’ve learned was that uterine fibroids and fibroids in the breast are very different.  The ones in the breast can be shrunk pretty easily while the uterine fibroids are more challenging.  Uterine fibroids are usually the result of estrogen dominance, so one has to decrease the amount of estrogen in the body to shrink the fibroids and THAT is challenging..  Another thing I learned was that while one doctor told me to stay away from flax seeds (because it is a very estrogenic food) another doctor said that she INSTRUCTS her patients to eat flax seeds because while they do give estrogen where estrogen is needed, it also helps the body to get rid of excess estrogen.  So essentially, it balances hormones.  Because she has had success with that, I followed her advice and tried to eat more flaxseeds.

There were some other issues that I didn't address in the last post because I didn't know until I actually started the protocol.  First, the supplement that I took (Vitalzyme professional strength), you must take it 2-3 times per day; and the challenge is you must take it ON AN EMPTY STOMACH or it doesn't work.  In other words you must wait two hours after eating and wait another hour after taking the supplement before you can eat again.  Second, you must be wary of chemical estrogenic imitators or xenoestrogens (particularly parabens, phalathes, Sodium Laurel Sulphate [SLS] and even phenoxyethanol which is supposed to be a “mild” preservative).  You also need to be aware of plant based estrogen imitators or phytoestrogen (essential oils, natural fragrances…).  I had to learn to make my own deodorant, lip balm, laundry booster (which I need because I use soap nuts) automatic dishwasher detergent and I still have yet to make soap.  In the meantime I buy olive oil soap.  This is the most frustrating part of the journey because I have to watch it when eating at someone’s house (dish detergents), I can’t use lotion (paraben), I have to travel with my own liquid soap in my purse to use in public restrooms (SLS) and I can't even sleep at a hotel or friend's house because the sheets were washed in something that I shouldn't touch (xenoestrogens of various kinds).

So it is working, but it will work much more quickly when I can stay away from meat for a while.  You need to balance your hormones while on this protocol and do it for as long as you need to until they shrink. If you're like me and doing the GAPS (or BED or Paleo), don't despair, it will happen.  You just need to be MUCH more patient.

Top 10 Foods Highest in Magnesium

I was SO surprised when I saw how much magnesium is in chocolate!  Now it makes sense why when we females are hormonal we can get some beastly chocolate cravings; we're magnesium deficient!  Well ladies (and you magnesium deficient gentlemen) below is a link to a list of foods that are highest in magnesium.

According to Dr. Mercola, if you are taking supplements for calcium or vitamin D3 (to name a few), then you definitely need magnesium.  Although some of us are SO deficient that we need a magnesium supplement, if it's possible to get our nutrients from food, that is always best.

Top 10 Foods Highest in Magnesium

Kefir Cream Cheese

I've tried the kefir cream cheese (see March's book in BeWell BookWorms).  It was almost kind of addicting.  I added dill to it and spread it on some almond crackers.  I couldn't believe how good it was!

The last batch of almond crackers were actually the first really good batch that I've made.  It took a lot of trial and error, but I made it.  Many of these things take experimentation and ruining foods and trying again anyway.  

I encourage you to try the kefir cream cheese and add that food to your snacks list.  It's another way to get your cultures in and let's face it; it's delicious stuff!

Health Freedom Update

I'll say it again, every single time you buy food you are telling Big Corporate what is in demand.  Three times a day you vote.  What do you support?  Do you support toxic GMO foods?  Do you support local or organic farmers?

Well, it seems like you've given your answer... or at least you've given Big Corporate your answer.  Companies like GM and McD0n@lds are scrambling to provide healthier foods.  Translation:  we're winning battle!  Keep doing what you're doing!  Don't put up or shut up until these bullies give up!



Fast food chains struggle in wake of healthy eating trend




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March's Book: Easy Kefir Recipes

Kefir is a blessing to those on leaky gut healing protocols.  There are two kinds of kefir, there is water kefir (for soda) and milk kefir (yogurt).  I actually consume (and VERY much enjoy) both.  I decided that a kefir recipe book would be a good book to feature this month.

I also posted a video presentation of a recipe that I FULLY intend on trying today.  Now that I have a dairy farmer who provides fabulous raw milk that my body loves, I eat yogurt again and I look forward to trying this kefir "cream cheese" stuff.  Kefir cream cheese would be a nice spread for my nut meal crackers.

I thought that a book on easy kefir recipes would be an ideal choice for the probiotic series that I've been doing. What I love about the book that I posted is that it's a kindle addition for a dollar!  I hope you enjoy your kefir cream cheese and your other kefir recipes!

Vitamin E

We've talked about the benefits of vitamin D and leaky gut syndrome.  Vitamin E also plays a role in gut repair among other things.

Vitamin E was something that I used to put on my skin almost daily.  I learned about it from a girlfriend of mine when I was 13.  She had the chickenpox and applied vitamin E oil on her scars.  Within weeks, you wouldn't even know that she had the chickenpox.  That's when I learned that vitamin E was great stuff for external healing.  But it's also fabulous for internal healing as well.

A vitamin E supplement would be especially good for those who have leaky gut that manifests in the form of eczema.  Taken internally or out, it repairs tissue and protects it with it's antioxidant properties.  What I didn't know is that it also has immune building properties as well.

So if you are healing your leaky gut, vitamin D is great to consider, but so is E.  Make sure you have some in your diet.  Nuts (like almonds), seeds, olive oil, avocados, greens and seafood like fish and shellfish are high in vitamin E.  Nuts, seeds and olive oil seemed to have vitamin E content that is higher than other foods.  But hey, I say try them all!  Why not?  All those foods are rich in many other nutrients and variety in one's diet is always advisable when possible.

Dairy and Leaky Gut

Many health professionals advise elimination of dairy from the diet to heal leaky gut syndrome.  In my experience, dairy isn't always bad.  Yogurt, in fact, is a part of the GAPS diet. I understand there are even some cheeses that are so high in good cultures and beneficial yeasts that even THEY are included in the GAPS diet (perhaps not in the beginning though).

I take probiotic supplements, but even my nutritionist said she would prefer it if I got a good portion of my probiotic intake from food. I never felt like I was getting enough so I started looking for a goat farmer (that sold shares for raw milk) so that I could make yogurt, though I tested VERY poorly on dairy (meaning I'm allergic or sensitive). I found a GREAT farmer! What I love about her is that she doesn't feed her animals the garbage; so they are a very healthy, happy bunch.   I'm officially on the waiting list for goat's milk, however, she also has cows that are a different species from the norm and there were shares available for them. The farmer gave me a sample of the cow's milk to take to my doctor to test me. I couldn't believe it, but I tested REALLY well on this milk! So now I include yogurt in my diet and I feel GREAT!

So although there are many dietary protocols for healing leaky gut; we need to be careful sometimes about what we eliminate from our diets.  Dr. Campbell-McBride constantly encourages to "Listen to your bodies" because what's good for me may not be good for you.  Dairy can be bad for some; but if you can find a dynamite dairy farmer like mine, raw dairy has LOADS of cultures and enzymes that could help heal leaky gut syndrome.  Get tested and listen to your body; if raw milk is the way to go for you, then go for it!

Enzymes and Leaky Gut

Enzymes are powerful little proteins that aid the body in so many different, wonderful ways.  Vitalzyme is a mixture of enzymes; people take them for several different reasons.  For leaky gut patients, enzymes play a particularly important role in healing.

Leaky gut syndrome is when the gut lining is damaged and often inflamed.  Because of this damage, to the lining, larger particles can pass through the gut wall and into the bloodstream.  Because these particles were not broken down properly, the body mistakes the over-sized nutrient as a pathogen.  This is why nasty allergies, food sensitivities and autoimmune diseases are leaky gut dead giveaways.  When the body is attacking itself or over reacting to something benign; it's because it's mistaking a healthy protein or nutrient for a pathogen which can ONLY result from leaky gut syndrome.

Enzymes can help in the leaky gut healing process because they break down food that can pass through the gut walls.  Before I knew anything about leaky gut syndrome, I used to take enzyme supplements to help break down food anyway.  Based on certain symptoms, it was evident to me, (and later to an old doctor of mine), that I was not breaking down my food properly.  Now, most of the probiotic foods that I make are rich both in cultures and in enzymes.  During the fermentation process of sauerkraut or kefir, enzymes increase making the anaerobic fermented foods/beverages much more medicinally potent for those fighting leaky gut syndrome.  Even so, I still take a non-GMO green papaya extract supplement to give my body additional help.

No matter how far along one is in a leaky gut healing protocol, enzymes are most definitely to be considered.  They rank side-by-side with probiotics as the rock-star healers of leaky gut syndrome.

Oral Thrush/ White Tongue

If you have a white sheet on your tongue (like in the pic above), it could be from many different causes.  Most health professionals first suggest to drink more water and continue to do so for a week or two to see if there is a difference, as it could be dehydration.  One of the most common causes of this, however, can be a candida infection.  If your white tongue is accompanied by a rash, fatigue, digestive problems or brain fog, it would be best to make a beeline for your health provider to see if you have candida overgrowth and leaky gut syndrome.

I did have a white sheet on my tongue.  After brushing my teeth, I would brush it off of my tongue and it would come back by nightfall before I'd brush it off again.  All this time, I had no idea that it had anything to do with candida.  As I progressed in my GAPS diet, the white has receded significantly.  The only time I have a little white now is if I haven't been drinking enough water.

So don't panic when you see thrush or a white tongue, maybe your just thirsty.  But if it looks as bad as the picture above (which was the least repulsive picture that I could find of oral thrush), or if that sheet is a charcoal grayish color, go see your health provider.  It's best to be guided by a professional on what to do.  If pharmaceuticals aren't for you and that's what is prescribed, remember that you have EVERY right to seek a second opinion.  I would advice a naturopathic doctor the second time around, he/she is likely to treat you without drugs.  Check on my Wellness Avenues page; look for Health Centers/Clinics; then Naturopathic Practitioners and that will link you to a directory that may help you find naturopathic practitioners in your area.  

Demonizing Grains

I wanted to address the issue of demonizing food once again, because it really drives me nuts.  I keep reading articles about how grains cause leaky gut syndrome.  The ONE case that I will accept this premise is if what they are talking about is or related to GMO grains that are riddled with glyphosate.  First of all, glyphosate is a major cause of leaky gut syndrome; and secondly, GMO anything is not food.  Other than that situation that declaration does not make sense.  Grains have been eaten for centuries and centuries without a problem.

Grains can exacerbate leaky gut and I will not deny THAT.  One of the first things that health professionals do when their patient has leaky gut syndrome, is take grain out of their diet.  The only exception to this rule in many protocols would be seed like grains such as buckwheat, amaranth, quinoa and even millet.  But those who developed diets such as Paleo, declared all grains as bad for the health and advise against them completely.  Dr. Campbell-McBride's patients had success with her GAPS diet.  When one is at the tail end of the GAPS diet, they eat sourdough!  I'm not talking about the gluten free sourdough either, the wheat based sourdough.

There is a reason why there are a great many people allergic to corn, soy, wheat, dairy and other foods and it has nothing to do with the food itself.  Corn is approximately 95% GMO in this country (soy is about there too but that's another post).  Most of America has leaky gut syndrome which corn and any other starchy food would irritate and inflame.  It's not the food that is "bad" in that case though, it's the body's reaction to the damage and its struggle to attain homeostasis.  If one is allergic to a strawberry, that doesn't make the strawberry bad.  We NEED to stop demonizing food.  All of these foods were originally very nourishing for the body and in their organic form can be that for the people with a healthy digestive system.

Food is good and nourishing.  If you are on the road towards healing like I am, there is no harm in eating these foods in their organic form once you're healed.  Once you are healed; stop worrying about the "bad" foods.  Just eat, enjoy and be healthy!

Seeds Of Death - Full Movie

I may have posted this movie before, however, because it is such essential information, I felt that it wouldn't hurt to present it again.  The corporations are fighting to take over.  I wish that I could say that they are doing a poor job, but there are several battles that they have won so far.  At the same time there IS hope.  The people have won some battles too.

General Mills (makers of Cheerios) is one company that broke under consumer pressure and made their original flavor cereal GMO free.  When I read the like pages of companies that still use GMOs, there are many consumers who nastily tell the companies that they refuse their products because of it.

This movement to force an unnatural substance down our throats is absolutely deplorable.  The following presentation will give more information.

Hypocriticrisy in Science

I love how the scientists who proved that GMOs are not safe are attacked and eventually discredited.  The moment a doctor is widely jeered for being a "quack" I tend to do everything to find out what he/she has to say.  It is more than likely golden information that could save humanity from the the corporate diseases that currently rule America.

Science is beautiful when done properly.  What the FDA does shames the name of science.  The way they willfully confound and fabricate data for the benefit of the corporations who bribe them is abominably shameful.  America can overtake these powers, but we have to stand together to do it.

Minerals

Minerals, for me, are most important for making water kefir.  Kefir grains LOVE minerals, which is why instruction commonly suggests spring water.  Since all I have is reverse osmosis water, I looked for a mineral alternative.  Pink salt seemed to work in the beginning, but after a while my grains became really small.  I just read an article that suggested a "rest" protocol; but I still wonder if perhaps the kind of mineral supplementation that I'm using is good for the grains.

I'm exploring other mineral supplement options.  Some suggest soaking an eggshell in the water to be used with the grains, one site suggested salt (which is what I use), molasses is widely suggested, but one that rather surprised me was oyster shell.  Not that I don't think it would work; I just didn't realize that such a thing was on the market.  I may try it though.  Right now, I'm going to stick with the pink salt and molasses.

Well, if you're in need mineral supplementation for your water kefir, you could try pink salt, like me, or you could try one of the options below.  Don't hesitate to tell me what you think or which you felt was best.

My Fears of GMOs and Political Corruption

I've learned so much because of the research that I've done for this blog, but sometimes I despise what I find.  It actually mentally exhausts me to the point where I sometimes feel like I don't want to do this anymore.  At the same time, how would it profit me to bury my head in the sand?  I'm compelled to keep on top of current events and research and keep letting my voice be heard.

For me, the impact on farming is the scariest part of this political corruption due to GMO technology.  300,000 farmers went up against M*sant* in court and lost.  California tried to pass 37 (the "Just Label It" bill) and lost.  Amish farms are raided and the Amish farmers arrested for the sales of raw milk and fresh vegetables.

I wonder if I'll ever be able to find a natural corn seed when I'm able to eat corn again or if it's as good as extinct even now.  I wonder if my children will see an actual monarch butterfly.  I have reason to hope for the best and that hope propels me to go on writing, speaking and educating others about the importance of eating natural food and staying away from GMOs.  I alone can't make a difference, but it's others like me who come together to fight for the same cause.  We won't put up or shut up until health freedom is ours!

Fermentation Facts and Tips

There are two kinds of fermentation:  Lactic acid fermentation (anaerobic) and alcoholic fermentation (aerobic).  People like me who are healing their leaky gut, are sternly warned to stay away from fermentation, however, when doctors say that they are usually referring to the aerobic fermentation.  Aerobic fermentation takes place in yeasts that contribute to candida overgrowth while the anaerobic fermentation produces all of the lovely beneficial bacteria and yeast that conquers the candida overgrowth.

A quick clue about aerobic vs anaerobic is whether you are fermenting food in an open container or a closed container.  If you ferment with the container open (with a cheesecloth over the top), then the fermentation is likely to be aerobic.  An example of this is kombucha.  If you close the container, then chances are it will ferment anaerobically; this is what leaky gut patients want.  Examples of this include sauerkraut, water kefir (although often people don't cover water kefir, but I ferment it in a closed container), yogurt, coconut yogurt and coconut kefir.

Once you've healed your leaky gut, the aerobic ferments would be helpful.  Until then, it may be prudent to stick with the anaerobic.

Appendix Health

An appendicitis is caused by fecal matter blocking the appendix.  It is postulated, therefore, that an overall healthy lifestyle will lower the risk of an appendicitis.

Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables will not only give your gut flora the prebiotic treats that they love, but it will also promote efficient bowel movements which is essential to a healthy appendix.  This can be aided by good exercise habits and drinking plenty of water.

If you do develop an appendicitis, removal of the appendix is not likely to be the doctor's first choice anymore due to the recent realization of the importance of the appendix.  It's still possible that some doctors may stick to that tradition, but thank God many are opening their eyes.

Gut Health by Dr. Gerald Lewis

I confess that I've never heard of Dr Gerald Lewis; however, his presentation on this video mostly expanded on what Dr. Joseph Mercola and Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride write, talk and teach about when it comes to intestinal health.  This video talked about things that I honestly didn't know; for example, it mentioned one of many functions of the appendix.  The appendix has been disregarded as a "prehistoric" organ that we don't need anymore, like tonsils and wisdom teeth.  Well, most people can function without wisdom teeth, however, the tonsils and the appendix are in our bodies for a reason.  Recently, researchers have found that both have a purpose when it comes to immune function, but this is the first that I've heard of it's purpose in regard to the health of one's gut flora.  It's good to know.

This is at least the third time I've heard a lecturer suggest miso soup for leaky gut.  I'm so scared of soy because of all the nasty things that are done to it.  But unfortunately, soy IS food too and it plays a role in the healing of the gut.  Yogurt, I fully understand, I need to get my hands on; but I'm going to have to have more conversations with my health providers about miso soup.  I would LOVE to get my hands on some good miso soup both organic and imported.  I wouldn't dare touch any soy that was grown in the USA.

Water Kefir Troubleshooting

Although I plan to be an expert one day on water kefir troubleshooting, I'm far from being that today.  I have kefir grains, but they look like they are ready to die.  In their lifetime, they did make me some mean ginger bugs though!  I made a soda that my husband absolutely LOVED!  I'm so happy about that, but I wish my grains would cheer up.  I'm not sure what's got them down.

I found this website on water kefir troubleshooting a few days ago.  It gave me some hints as to why my grains aren't doing so well and gave me some tips about what I can do about it.  Some of my grains seemed to wake up a bit, but they are still in ICU.  I'm hoping they love the the sugar and mineral rich environment that I prepared for them.  Then there was another site that suggested a "rest" protocol.  I'm going to try that next.

If anyone has any questions about their water kefir, the links that I've attached are both wonderful.  I hope you find the answers that you're looking for!

Probiotics - Digestive & Immune System Support

The one area where I don't agree with Dr. Mercola is what he says about grain.  He's not the only one who demonizes grain, but I still don't agree.  Grain is food!  I don't eat grain right now because it could upset progress of the GAPS diet; but on the GAPS diet I can't eat potatoes, bananas or squash either because they are all starchy and starchy foods are a no-no until the gut is healed.  Nonetheless, bananas, potatoes, squash AND grain are all foods.  I will agree, however, that as long as one has leaky gut, grain should be completely avoided.

I've tried Dr. Merxola's probiotics as well.  I prefer the Natren Healthy Trinity, but I know of people who swear by Mercola's.  Try different brands until you find the one that sings to your belly.

Homemade Probiotics

This nurse makes his own probiotics which is pretty cool.  I make my own from coconuts, but I like the idea of making some from carrots since carrots seem to be easily leftover in my kitchen whenever I make batches and batches of sauerkraut.

Enjoy!

Golden Milk

If you've been reading my posts for a while, then you know how I feel about raw milk.  Golden milk takes things to a WHOLE new level.  This milk was not dyed, this is the way that it came out of the cows.  These were cows that were 100% grazed.  The amount of vitamins in the grass drives the nutritious levels of the milk close to superfood status.  This milk is golden because there is SO much beta carotene in it!  A healthy cow will provide healthy milk

A dairy farmer told me about this kind of milk (he isn't a farmer who produced this kind of milk though).  What I found interesting is that the processed cheese is usually dyed this golden color to resemble the highly nutrient dense cheese that comes from this kind of milk.  Golden cheeses were traditionally more "pleasing to the eye" because it resembles the delicious and super healthy cheeses that came from golden milk.

I would love to get my hands on this kind of milk to make yogurt.  The store purchased yogurt isn't good for anyone to eat, however, if you are healing leaky gut it's even worse.  I've seen yogurt that contained aspartame and other toxins.  Besides, it's not difficult to make yogurt and to make it with golden milk like this would make it that much better nutritionally!  I don't know of any farmers who provide golden milk, but until I find one, I'm keeping my eyes open for it!

Behold The Power of Consumer Pressure

I don't believe for one second that General Mills had a change of heart (Sorry GM!).  I do believe, however, that when their sales started rising due to this change of ingredients, that will speak VOLUMES about what consumers want.

Government (or in America's case corporations) can be oppressive sometimes, yes, but the people have even MORE power.  This is the reason why we are coerced or even forced to buy certain things (vaccines, healthcare insurance and such).  When the consumers choices speak, the government (or US corporations) have the choice to force/coerce us into submission or to give in and give us what we want.  Cheeri*s is an example of things going the way we want them to.  Hopefully, this also sends a message to our friend M*nsanto as well.

General Mills' Cheerios Will Soon Be GMO-Free

BeWell BookWorm's Probiotc Series

This half hour video gave me some insight into America's health (not to mention the state of my own health), and the importance probiotics.  Don't misunderstand, I know that this video was made to sell a particular kind of probiotic.  I don't believe the message in this video just because some unknown Joe Shmoe says so; I believe what this video says because of one of several reasons:  1.  I already knew  2.  I suspected  3.  I'm learning about it from other sources and this video simply filled in some of the blanks.  Most of what was said was not only information that I knew, but wrote about on this blog at some point or another.

One of the best things that I've ever done for my health, was to take a strong probiotic daily.  Once I found a good one, I used it.  It's not the one that the presenter of this video is trying to sell, but it's the best that I've ever taken.  I don't get sick as easily as I used to, I have more energy than ever and I've accomplished more since I've been taking it than I have in the last couple of years living in a colder climate than I'm used to.

I've already featured my favorite books on gut flora and health, but I think I'm going to be featuring many others over the next couple of months.  It just impacted my life in so many ways that I don't believe I can say enough about it.

Introducing Tellspec

This is one of the times when technology is my friend; and in this case, it's my GOOD friend!  Tellspec makes me LOVE technology, in fact.

This little device can tell you what is in your food.  When you have allergies or food sensitivities or even if you are just someone who wants to avoid chemicals found in processed foods; this is a product that you should know about.

Healthy Trinity

This is the probiotic supplement that I've been using.  It's pricey, but the difference in my health made the price  it well worth it.

I first started using Healthy Trinity a few years ago.  I had an attack of candida that produced a rash.  Whenever I had a rash, that was an indication that the candida overgrowth was very, VERY bad.  Usually the only thing that would make the rash go away is a three month yeast free diet.  The problem is, it would be a THREE MONTH yeast free diet.  When I took the Healthy Trinity, the rash would go away within a week and I wouldn't have to do the yeast free diet.  I don't struggle as much now that I've been on an even more restrictive yeast free diet for over a year.

Between the GAPS diet and the Healthy Trinity, I've been feeling better than I have in years and my body has been fighting off illnesses so easily that it's unbelievable.  Because of this, I highly recommend Healthy Trinity.  I must say, however, it's effects have been made most powerful in conjunction with the GAPS diet.

February's Book: Good Gut Bugs by Kathryn Marsden

Gut bugs are such a blessing!  I can't read enough about them.  I'm looking forward to when my doctor gives me the green light to eat dairy again so that I can find a good goat farmer and get raw goat's milk to make yogurt and eat even more good gut bugs!  I'm also trying to perfect the sodas that I make (from kefir water or ginger bugs) so that I can have a refreshing fizzy treat that my gut bugs will love too.

I've had so much more energy and I don't get the flu as easily as I used to.  Because of this, I'm grateful for the gut bugs.  They are our friends, so we should feed them plenty of fermented foods like kefir, yogurt and sauerkraut to help them be healthy and strong.  The stronger they are, the stronger WE are.  So let's hear it for the bugs!  

The Importance of Rest

Hello again BWMF readers!  I'm so sorry about the LONG absence, but didn't realize how much I needed the vacation until I took one.  I'm feeling so refreshed after my good long rest and now I'm ready to post like a fiend!  R&R is highly recommended; at least by me!

I didn't just rest, I was pretty busy working on my other projects.  I've been working very, very hard on them but they tended my focus in a different direction than BWMF.  That diversion was much needed.  When I first built BWMF, I didn't realize how political the very subjects of health and food had become.  Honestly, politics in health (though it's now necessary) is kind of a bummer for me.  At the same time, I've missed doing research on health and healing.  Besides, I've learned a few things while I was away.  For one thing, I learned the importance of rest!

Antibiotics

I stand by my premise that traditional medicine (or mainstream healthcare) has its place. Once upon a time, I would've said the same about antibiotics; that it has it's place. Unfortunately, I can't bring myself to say that with confidence anymore.

There's so many dangers to taking antibiotics and the fact that there are alternatives, like oregano oil, why would one take the risk? For some, the answer to that question would be because they're not sure of the efficacy of herbal antibiotics like oregano oil or goldenseal. I can't say that I blame them, when your sick, figuring out which doctor to listen to can be a tricky business unless it's someone that you know and trust. I usually listen to my doctor, but not everyone has the benefits of a doctor who practices science based medicine as opposed to the doctors who are trained by Big Pharma influenced institutions.

One of many reasons why this blog is such a blessing for me, is because the amount of research that I need to do on pathologies and the validity of the different treatments whether mainstream or alternative.  I've learned so much that it's now very clear to me when the naturopathic doctors that I've chosen are golden or not.

Be Careful of Demonizing Food

A friend of mine posted this video on Facebook. Everything that this video says about low-fat peanut butter and diet soda I am so on board with. What the video suggests about trail mix and dried fruits, however, is mostly true… but to a point.

Trail mix, for example, is actually a great snack; but only when it's made from real food. The trail mix that was shown in the video had refined sugars in the dried fruit, candy, BHA in the nuts and it's probable that the dried fruit was processed with sulfur. I would agree any day of the week that that is not food and should never be consumed. If one makes one's own trail mix, however, out of organic nuts and untreated dry fruits that were naturally dehydrated, for example, then that's just a healthy snack. Therefore, what they said about dried fruits is also true if the fruit is GMO, contains added sugar and/or is processed with sulfur or other toxic additives. Organic dried figs, dates, mangoes and many others are not only natural candies but they also have health benefits.

We've got to be careful about demonizing food. Yes, most of the so-called "food" in the video should not be consumed. But what should be demonized is the refined garbage that is mistakenly deemed as food. Do not demonize food itself. Food is healthy, necessary, nourishing and can even be medicinal. The foods that make most people sick today, are either food-like products or are real food that are allergic or sensitive to because of the food-like products that we've consumed in the past.

I encourage all to do research and not listen to everything that you hear; not even from me.

Socialized Healthcare (Followup for yesterday's post)

When the American people were told that we will be able to keep our old health insurance, that was quite obviously a broken promise (to be polite).  Hundreds of thousands of Americans had to switch to a far more expensive healthcare plan. I want to use this opportunity to vent how it affected me.

For just about any health ailment, my husband and I use a flex card to pay for our healthcare needs. The only health insurance we actually need is emergency care in case we need to go to the hospital. Emergency care is no longer available because of the laws that revolve around socialized healthcare. Therefore, my husband and I will have to pay a lot more money for health care services that I'm absolutely certain we will never use. So instead of spending that money on our own health care needs we are as good as putting more money into a black hole.  Thankfully, there are other options that we will be looking into.

Restricting the choices of American citizens does not make a better America. I understand that there are people who need health insurance, but this is not the way to get it for them.  Hudreds of thousands of Americans and I are all hoping that this nightmare goes away sometime very soon; many of them are Americans who can't afford healthcare OR the fine that they will need to pay because they can't afford healthcare.

Coffeecare

More and more people are complaining about the disadvantages of Obamacare.  For many, the so-called Affordable Care Act is not affordable.  The nasty part is that people who REALLY can't afford it get fined for not having health insurance that they can't afford in the first place and no one can explain to me how this is helping them.

There are SO many reasons why I am against Obamacare.  I'm tired of people affirming that it's "the law of the land" because taxation without representation was also the law of the land and the result was revolution.  That's the only thing about Obamacare that gives me hope; the hope of revolution.  Not necessarily "war" (which I understand revolution can easily escalate to and is often associated with), but revolution itself.  Many Americans hold on to the hope that the government will stop trying to spoon feed those of us who don't need them to make choices for us.

January's book: The Cure Is In The Cupboard

It's very possible that vaccines have their place.  If they do, however, I'd be the last person to tell you about their place.  There have been SO many parents (even parents who are practicing physicians) who complain about their children suffering from vaccine injury; so I wonder.  After doing lots of research, I found that there have also been MANY studies that show the VERY destructive effects of vaccines.  So I don't particularly care for flu shots or other unnecessary vaccines.

The first person who told me about the benefits of oregano oil was my aunt.  Honestly, there are SO many different ways to prevent the flu, but she seems to really believe in the oregano oil.  I felt that it wouldn't hurt to do some research on oregano oil and it's benefits.  When I heard it treats candida, I knew that I HAD to know more.  So this month, I decided on the book "The Cure Is In The Cupboard" by Dr. C Ingram.

"Why I Want My Patients Off Birth Control" Says Dr. Kelly Brogan

There are sooo many methods of birth control, I've always been too afraid of birth control pills.  I just don't like to mess around with hormones unless it's necessary.

What this doctor had to say about birth control pills made me SO happy that I've always avoided them.


  

Seaweed Tends To Be Highly Recommended

Dulse is a seaweed that was highly recommended to many who have candida. One article suggested that dulse is high in probiotics, but I haven't heard anyone back that with research so I take that piece of information with a grain of salt. Dulse, however, is still a seaweed that is very high in the particularly necessary nutrients for Candida sufferers like iodine and selenium.

I started to make a habit of sprinkling a little bit of dulse flakes on my steak. This way, the iodine can contribute to killing the candida, the selenium can contribute to removing its toxins, the probiotics in the sauerkraut help to replenish the gut flora and the saturated fats in the meat help repair the enterocytes. So right there is a lunch that helps me fight the disease that I have suffered from for most of my life from several angles.

Dulse flakes are not the only kind of seaweed, obviously. I just happen to find them very affordable and versatile in its use in recipes. I've use them in soups and salads but most of all on my steak. But I also enjoy nori snacks, kelp powder and perhaps when I'm able to eat beans again, I can enjoy my kombu seaweed as well.  All are healthful and helpful in fighting candida.

Slippery Elm Bark and Tissue Repair

I first learned about slippery elm bark from the friend who introduced me to my first natropathic doctor. I believe that was the first or second time I had ever suffered from bronchitis. Another friend of mine advised me to take a very common Russian remedy for bronchitis, while the other one suggested slippery elm bark. I remember having to take the slippery elm bark with a heated beverage; apparently, heat activates slippery elm bark.

I learned later that not only does it help to heal cough, it aids tissue repair. Anything that aids tissue repair can heal just about any disease. The disease may not heal immediately, but anything that can help heal inflammation can help heal the entire body. Inflammation is what causes just about any disease that you can imagine. Flu, for example, is caused by a virus, yes, but a strong and healthy body with very little to no inflammation is more likely to fight that virus off before the the individual knows that their body is being invaded. This is why slippery elm is gold; especially to those of us with leaky gut syndrome.  Last year was the first year in a long time that I caught a cold or flu virus, but didn't get sick.  I knew this was an excellent sign that I was healing even before my doctor said so.

For those who use slippery elm bark for leaky gut, one piece of advice I keep reading is to make sure that you take a LOT of probiotics with it.  Obviously, it may not be the best idea to take them at the same time (since slippery elm is heat activated and heat can weaken or kill cultures), but maybe take the slippery elm between meals that are rich in probiotics (kefir, sauerkraut, yogurt...).  I usually eat slippery elm with a honey-sweetened candy that I make with sesame seeds.  Then after about a half hour, I chug two shots of coconut kefir (approximately 2 tablespoons) or eat some coconut yogurt.  That's right, why not have FUN with the supplements that you're taking!

I try to take slippery elm everyday in some way; whether it's in those candies or in my tea or some other dish.  My nutritionist HIGHLY recommends it for leaky gut; and, in fact, gives her clients a supplement that contains slippery elm bark.  So have fun and if you have any recipes that you'd like to share, feel free to share them in the comments below.