As a follow-up to my last post, I just wanted to add some specific examples and details about having the right perspective on healthcare.
You probably know that regular doctors love to run thousands of dollars worth of tests on sick people. The usual result is that they still don't know what's wrong, or at best, they can only tell you what you don't have (you don't have malaria, or hepatitis, or whatever).
In those rare cases where they discover "the problem" of someone's symptoms - such as high cholesterol, improper hormone levels, brain chemical imbalance, etc. - they still haven't told you what the root cause is. If your hormone levels are off, you need to find what caused them to be that way. Just adding more hormones to your body may "fix" your test results, but it won't actually heal the root problem.
And most often once doctors find a "name" for your problem, they either prescribe a drug (or several drugs), or they recommend surgery. It usually doesn't even occur to them that there are things you can do to actually help your body heal, once you find the true root cause of the problem.
I've discovered a few basic things that I believe are the root causes of almost all health problems.
1) poor nutrition - anyone who eats a 'typical' American diet for even a few years, will end up with a body starving for nutrients and experience all kinds of health problems as a result.
2) toxic overload - our country is riddled with toxic chemicals like never before. They are everywhere! The body can only handle so much toxic exposure before it begins to break down in several areas.
3) bugs - mainly things like parasites, entrenched viral or bacterial infections, overgrowth of candida, etc.
And STRESS is also a big factor in our overall health. Though I think it is mainly in combination with these other things that it causes problems.
So, before you face spending hundreds of dollars on more tests, having surgery, or filling your body full of toxic drugs, why not explore the things you can be doing right now to help your body heal and repair itself.
1) Eat organic foods, lots of veggies and fruits, no sugar or processed foods. - You might not see a huge change with this overnight, but it will make a difference in your body.
(Here's my post about some diet recomendations - http://supereigirl.blogspot.com/2010/05/happy-diet.html)
2) Get a lymphatic massage at least twice a month. - I know I've mentioned this many times before. There's just no way for me to overstate how important this is in facilitating your body's ability to detox! If you don't do the massage, then whatever else you do to help detox will probably not be effective or at least not as effective. God created the lymphatic system to drain the toxins from your body. If it's "choked" then you will have serious repercussions.
(Here's my post about lymphatic massage - http://supereigirl.blogspot.com/2010/03/lymphatic-massage.html
For more ideas about detoxing, here's my post on that - http://supereigirl.blogspot.com/2010/02/detoxing-101.html)
3) Do a parasite treatment. - The CDC estimates that 80% of Americans have parasites. However, most doctors never think of this, and if they do, they only test for about 10% of the possible parasites. And, most of the regular drug treatments only kill the adult parasites, not the eggs. Thus they are completely ineffective.
If you're interested I can tell you how to do a natural parasite treatment (from the dr I saw in Idaho). Just send me an email.
Or you can try an herbal treatment. I've heard that Dr. Val Saxion has a good one, though I haven't used it myself. Here's her website - http://www.valeriesaxion.com/
4) Start with essential supplements - Most people are magnesium deficient and mineral deficient because of poor diets and depleted soil, etc. I'ts a fact that the body cannot produce trace minerals, magnesium, or vit. C. So these are three very important things you should supplement with (since it's almost impossible to get high enough amounts of these from food).
Also, Probiotics are vital, as I mentioned in a previous post. And coconut oil is incredibly valuable in boosting the immune system and fighting those 'bugs' in the body.
(Probiotics post - http://supereigirl.blogspot.com/2011/01/support-bacteria.html
Coconut oil post - http://supereigirl.blogspot.com/2011/02/oil-change.html)
5) Find a natural health care provider. - I actually have 2 naturopaths, an herbalogist, my dr in Idaho, and a physical therapist that I've worked with over the last couple of years. All of them are Christians and have helped me tremendously in understanding how to work with my body toward the goal of good health.
(I've listed some suggestions in my post about resources - http://supereigirl.blogspot.com/2011/02/resources.html)
6) Take care of your mental/emotional/spiritual health. Things like stress, anxiety, anger, fear, etc. are all damaging to our bodies. Renewing our minds in God's Word, prayer, and encouragement from others are always helpful and beneficial to all areas of our health. =)
These are things that anyone can do, things that will make a difference, things that can help your body to heal or just strengthen it so you can avoid so many of the health problems that are prevelant today.
If we want to be healthier than the average person today, then I believe we need to think differently and act differently. Let's not be 'conformed' to the world's ideas (Rom. 12:1-2) about health and the body. Let's continue to seek the knowledge God gives - after all He created our bodies! - and do the things He has provided so that we can live in good health and be available for all God longs to do through us!
Friday, February 25, 2011
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Religion & Healthcare
For what it's worth, I'd like to share a perspective God has given me about our modern healthcare system. These are things God has shown me through my health trial, through painful experiences, and through long-term observation.
I hope this post will be of some value to you. It breaks my heart to see others going down the same road of pain and suffering I've been on. I long to do anything I can to help people avoid that if at all possible.
I know many doctors sincerely want to help people, however most of them are unable to do so mainly because our "modern" medical system is bankrupt.
Let me explain. Most doctors today have a wrong foundation for the practice of medicine. Almost all of them were trained in schools that taught 'medicine' from an evolutionary world view. On the surface, this may not seem important, but whenever you take God out of the picture in any arena, you can be sure disastrous results will follow. (see Romans chapter 1:18-32)
The evolutionary world view thinks that things can just "happen" (like the "big bang" theory). This includes various health problems. I've heard this a lot in regard to arthritis, allergies, headaches, etc. -- "you just get them sometimes."
This world view also sees "new" diseases developing. And it thinks that man can come up with a better way to 'fix' our problems - thus the explosion of chemically manufactured drugs. There is more, but I think these are the basic flaws.
In contrast, a creation world view sees God as the Creator, and a world that operates by the laws of cause and effect. God is the first cause (Himself uncaused) and nothing just "happens." Everything has a cause & effect.
In addition, man is fearfully and wonderfully made. (Ps. 139:14) The human body was designed by God with the ability to heal and repair itself. And God has given us everything we need for LIFE and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3), which means what God created is useful for all the needs of our bodies.
I know this may sound too academic to really matter, but believe me, these are the hard-earned conclusions God has given me after many years of experience in the medical world and seeing very contrasting views of different doctors.
The doctors who have really helped me are the ones who are Christians and who believe in everything I mentioned above - that every health problem has a root cause, that the body is designed to heal, and that we must give the body what it needs from creation to help it heal - not from what man has manufactured.
Of course, there are some things in 'modern' medicine that are life-saving, and I'm not discounting those. But for almost all health issues, I believe it makes a huge difference which foundation you start with.
Healthcare without 'Religion' - or for our perspective, without a foundational belief in our Creator God - will be incomplete and ineffective, and in some cases even dangerous and life-threatening.
I think this a pivotal time for Christians to examine the way we think about these things and to ask God to change our perspective and understanding from an evolutionary world view of medical care to a creation, godly world view.
And I think it's important for us to seek out and pray for doctors who will help and serve the sick from the right foundation.
What you believe matters. And what your doctor believes matters. Let's bring God back into healthcare.
I hope this post will be of some value to you. It breaks my heart to see others going down the same road of pain and suffering I've been on. I long to do anything I can to help people avoid that if at all possible.
I know many doctors sincerely want to help people, however most of them are unable to do so mainly because our "modern" medical system is bankrupt.
Let me explain. Most doctors today have a wrong foundation for the practice of medicine. Almost all of them were trained in schools that taught 'medicine' from an evolutionary world view. On the surface, this may not seem important, but whenever you take God out of the picture in any arena, you can be sure disastrous results will follow. (see Romans chapter 1:18-32)
The evolutionary world view thinks that things can just "happen" (like the "big bang" theory). This includes various health problems. I've heard this a lot in regard to arthritis, allergies, headaches, etc. -- "you just get them sometimes."
This world view also sees "new" diseases developing. And it thinks that man can come up with a better way to 'fix' our problems - thus the explosion of chemically manufactured drugs. There is more, but I think these are the basic flaws.
In contrast, a creation world view sees God as the Creator, and a world that operates by the laws of cause and effect. God is the first cause (Himself uncaused) and nothing just "happens." Everything has a cause & effect.
In addition, man is fearfully and wonderfully made. (Ps. 139:14) The human body was designed by God with the ability to heal and repair itself. And God has given us everything we need for LIFE and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3), which means what God created is useful for all the needs of our bodies.
I know this may sound too academic to really matter, but believe me, these are the hard-earned conclusions God has given me after many years of experience in the medical world and seeing very contrasting views of different doctors.
The doctors who have really helped me are the ones who are Christians and who believe in everything I mentioned above - that every health problem has a root cause, that the body is designed to heal, and that we must give the body what it needs from creation to help it heal - not from what man has manufactured.
Of course, there are some things in 'modern' medicine that are life-saving, and I'm not discounting those. But for almost all health issues, I believe it makes a huge difference which foundation you start with.
Healthcare without 'Religion' - or for our perspective, without a foundational belief in our Creator God - will be incomplete and ineffective, and in some cases even dangerous and life-threatening.
I think this a pivotal time for Christians to examine the way we think about these things and to ask God to change our perspective and understanding from an evolutionary world view of medical care to a creation, godly world view.
And I think it's important for us to seek out and pray for doctors who will help and serve the sick from the right foundation.
What you believe matters. And what your doctor believes matters. Let's bring God back into healthcare.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Resources
Hello. Today I want to just list some websites that I hope will be helpful resources for you in your health journey.
- Environmental Working Group ewg.org
This is an excellent site with all kinds of great information like -
Shopper's guide to pesticides, Bottled water guide, Cosmetics database, Cell phone radiation report, etc.
You can sign up to receive email updates, (usually about once a week) or check out their blog - http://www.enviroblog.org/
They also have action points - petitions to sign or issues to contact congressman about.
I really appreciate their good work and hope you will benefit from it as well.
- Beyond Organic Insider http://www.beyondorganicinsider.com/
This is Jordan Rubin's blog where he tells the hard truth about many health and food issues. From revealing what's really in your drinking water, to exposing common food myths, Jordan will keep you well informed about what's really happening in the food and health industries. I appreciate his willingness to speak up and be a voice of truth in this age of misinformation and deception.
- Environmental Illness Resource www.ei-resource.org/
If you know someone with E.I., this website has information and ways to connect with other people with E.I.
Caution - Some of the treatment methods they describe on this site are more radical than I would recommend. Just be careful about following any treatment recommendations, while still making good use of the information and community aspects of this site.
- NEEDS http://www.needs.com/
NEEDS is a discount vitamin/supplement/health products site. They usually have better prices than most health food stores, and they have almost every product imaginable.
- Dr. Mercola http://products.mercola.com/coconut-oil/
This link contains Dr. Mercola's thorough information about coconut oil and its many health benefits.
- Brenda Watson http://www.brendawatson.com/
You may have seen her show on PBS. She has all kinds of information about probiotics and health issues related to a lack of these "good bacteria" in the body.
- Doug Kaufman http://www.knowthecause.com/
Doug's mission is to educate people about candida, mold and fungus and how they affect the body. His website tells where you can watch his TV show, what the Phase One diet is, which foods are anti-fungal, etc.
- Dr. Valerie Saxion (Naturopath) http://www.valeriesaxion.com/
I often watch her TV show, "Alternative Health." She shares all kinds of great health information and also sells a wide variety of products.
- Dr. Anthony Smith (Chiropractor/CBT practitioner) http://www.allertouch.com/index.asp
This is the dr I saw almost 2 years ago in Idaho. If you know someone in the Northwest area with chronic health issues, I highly recommend him! His CBT treatment is effective for - allergies, candida, parasites, viruses, Lymes disease, etc.
I use the CBT treatment every single day for all kinds of issues, and I know that being treated by Dr. Smith was a huge part of my healing process.
- Connie Newcombe (Herbalogist) http://www.theherbhouseks.com/
She is the herbalogist I've been working with for more than a year and a half now. She is very knowledgeable about the healing properties of various foods, herbs, plants, etc. I highly recommend her to anyone dealing with any health issue. (She does phone appointments, so she can work with anyone regardless of location.)
OK, those are some of the basic resources I use. I hope you found something helpful there. If you're looking for information on something specific, please let me know and I'll get back to you if I can help.
Blessings,
-Joanna
- Lymphatic Drainage Massage http://www.ehow.com/videos-on_4277_expect-lymphatic-drainage-massage.html
This site has video clips demonstrating specific massage techniques, as well as other information about lymphatic massage.
- Environmental Working Group ewg.org
This is an excellent site with all kinds of great information like -
Shopper's guide to pesticides, Bottled water guide, Cosmetics database, Cell phone radiation report, etc.
You can sign up to receive email updates, (usually about once a week) or check out their blog - http://www.enviroblog.org/
They also have action points - petitions to sign or issues to contact congressman about.
I really appreciate their good work and hope you will benefit from it as well.
- Beyond Organic Insider http://www.beyondorganicinsider.com/
This is Jordan Rubin's blog where he tells the hard truth about many health and food issues. From revealing what's really in your drinking water, to exposing common food myths, Jordan will keep you well informed about what's really happening in the food and health industries. I appreciate his willingness to speak up and be a voice of truth in this age of misinformation and deception.
- Environmental Illness Resource www.ei-resource.org/
If you know someone with E.I., this website has information and ways to connect with other people with E.I.
Caution - Some of the treatment methods they describe on this site are more radical than I would recommend. Just be careful about following any treatment recommendations, while still making good use of the information and community aspects of this site.
- NEEDS http://www.needs.com/
NEEDS is a discount vitamin/supplement/health products site. They usually have better prices than most health food stores, and they have almost every product imaginable.
- Dr. Mercola http://products.mercola.com/coconut-oil/
This link contains Dr. Mercola's thorough information about coconut oil and its many health benefits.
- Brenda Watson http://www.brendawatson.com/
You may have seen her show on PBS. She has all kinds of information about probiotics and health issues related to a lack of these "good bacteria" in the body.
- Doug Kaufman http://www.knowthecause.com/
Doug's mission is to educate people about candida, mold and fungus and how they affect the body. His website tells where you can watch his TV show, what the Phase One diet is, which foods are anti-fungal, etc.
- Dr. Valerie Saxion (Naturopath) http://www.valeriesaxion.com/
I often watch her TV show, "Alternative Health." She shares all kinds of great health information and also sells a wide variety of products.
- Dr. Anthony Smith (Chiropractor/CBT practitioner) http://www.allertouch.com/index.asp
This is the dr I saw almost 2 years ago in Idaho. If you know someone in the Northwest area with chronic health issues, I highly recommend him! His CBT treatment is effective for - allergies, candida, parasites, viruses, Lymes disease, etc.
I use the CBT treatment every single day for all kinds of issues, and I know that being treated by Dr. Smith was a huge part of my healing process.
- Connie Newcombe (Herbalogist) http://www.theherbhouseks.com/
She is the herbalogist I've been working with for more than a year and a half now. She is very knowledgeable about the healing properties of various foods, herbs, plants, etc. I highly recommend her to anyone dealing with any health issue. (She does phone appointments, so she can work with anyone regardless of location.)
OK, those are some of the basic resources I use. I hope you found something helpful there. If you're looking for information on something specific, please let me know and I'll get back to you if I can help.
Blessings,
-Joanna
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Oil Change
For years I used only canola oil and olive oil in cooking and on my food. Some people told me about many dangers of canola oil, while others held that it was healthy for the body.
Well, last year I decided to do more research. Again, I found people standing adamantly on both sides of the issue. However, I also discoverd that canola oil comes from a plant that has been genetically modified (though some websites claim some canola oil was only naturally hybridized). Certainly if a plant has been genetically altered, we know it is a serious health risk. (I've heard that soybeans are the #1 genetically modified plant in this country. Definitely a good reason to avoid soy products.)
Considering all of the information about the possible dangers of canola oil, I decided it was wiser to remove this oil completely from my diet.
At the same time, I discovered many health experts recommending coconut oil. This oil is anti-fungal, anti-viral, good for the immune system, and more.... It is also great for cooking since it is the only oil stable enough for high cooking temperatures. It is excellent for cooking & baking, putting on food instead of margarine or butter, and even rubbing on the skin.
After reading all this great information, I decided to make the switch from canola oil to coconut oil, and I'm very glad I did. =)
If you want to read more about coconut oil, Dr. Mercola has tons of great information on his website, including a list of requirements for the kind of coconut oil you should buy (not all coconut oil is created equal). Here are his recommendations:
• Certified organic by USDA standards
• No refining
• No chemicals added (including hexane)
• No bleaching
• No deodorization
• No hydrogenation
• Made from traditional coconut palms only, no hybrid or genetically modified (GMO) varieties
• Made from fresh coconuts, not the dried "copra" used in cheap oils
• Made without heat processing
(from: http://products.mercola.com/coconut-oil/)
If you're still using canola, vegetable, or other possibly harmful oils, I hope you'll check out this info and decide it's time to get your oil changed. =) You'll be thankful for all the great health benefits that come with it!
(As a side note, I do still use olive oil, but only for putting on my food, not for cooking.)
Well, last year I decided to do more research. Again, I found people standing adamantly on both sides of the issue. However, I also discoverd that canola oil comes from a plant that has been genetically modified (though some websites claim some canola oil was only naturally hybridized). Certainly if a plant has been genetically altered, we know it is a serious health risk. (I've heard that soybeans are the #1 genetically modified plant in this country. Definitely a good reason to avoid soy products.)
Considering all of the information about the possible dangers of canola oil, I decided it was wiser to remove this oil completely from my diet.
At the same time, I discovered many health experts recommending coconut oil. This oil is anti-fungal, anti-viral, good for the immune system, and more.... It is also great for cooking since it is the only oil stable enough for high cooking temperatures. It is excellent for cooking & baking, putting on food instead of margarine or butter, and even rubbing on the skin.
After reading all this great information, I decided to make the switch from canola oil to coconut oil, and I'm very glad I did. =)
If you want to read more about coconut oil, Dr. Mercola has tons of great information on his website, including a list of requirements for the kind of coconut oil you should buy (not all coconut oil is created equal). Here are his recommendations:
• Certified organic by USDA standards
• No refining
• No chemicals added (including hexane)
• No bleaching
• No deodorization
• No hydrogenation
• Made from traditional coconut palms only, no hybrid or genetically modified (GMO) varieties
• Made from fresh coconuts, not the dried "copra" used in cheap oils
• Made without heat processing
(from: http://products.mercola.com/coconut-oil/)
If you're still using canola, vegetable, or other possibly harmful oils, I hope you'll check out this info and decide it's time to get your oil changed. =) You'll be thankful for all the great health benefits that come with it!
(As a side note, I do still use olive oil, but only for putting on my food, not for cooking.)
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Support Bacteria
Recently I read this funny quote: "Support bacteria. It's the only culture some people have." =)
Even though it's meant as a joke, there's a lot of truth in it. We do need to support bacteria.
Right now it seems like most people, doctors, and companies are trying to rid the earth of all bacteria! Practically every product from hand soap to trash bags is now labeled "anti-bacterial."
Newsflash: God created bacteria. It serves a vital role in the earth's natural processes. It isn't going to go away anytime soon.
I think all this emphasis on "anti-bacterial" is actually very damaging. The bad bacteria are just getting stronger and more resistant to the chemicals and drugs used to kill them. And the good bacteria are being killed off more and more.
Yes, I said GOOD bacteria. Believe it or not, we need bacteria.
Did you know that approximately 80% of your immune system is in your gut (intestines)?
Whenever I heard that statistic before, I always assumed that was the doctor's way of trying to get me to eat healthier. =) But it's much more than just eating a healthy diet.
Can you guess the reason why 80% of the immune system is in the gut?
Because that's where the GOOD bacteria live!
Think of the good bacteria as the cowboys in the white hats, and the bad bacteria as the rustlers in the black hats. Good guys verses bad guys. When the bad bacteria enters our bodies, it's the good bacteria that's able to fight it off. The good bacteria also fights viruses, candida, and other invaders.
If there's not enough of the good guys in our bodies, then we're in serious trouble.
Because the good bacteria is such a huge part of the immune system, not having enough can cause all kinds of health problems. This includes everything from digestive problems to many things you wouldn't expect, such as: arthritis, chronic fatigue, skin problems, etc.
Certain foods are rich in good bacteria - saurkraut, yogurt, and other fermented foods. However, it's hard to eat enough of these foods to get all the good bacteria you need. (Not to mention that most yogurt has more sugar in it than ice cream has--unless it's plain and unsweetened. Eating yogurt for bacteria isn't worth the trade off of the sugar damage.)
So it's important to supplement with good bacteria.
According to Brenda Watson, author of "The Road To Perfect Health" (http://www.brendawatson.com/) - there are 4 main requirements to look for when purchasing a "Probiotic" (good bacteria) supplement.
It should have -
1) at least 10 different strains of bacteria.
2) a total culture count of at least 15 billion
3) delayed release so it will reach your intestines before being broken down
4) full potency until date of expiration
A lot of probiotic supplements do not meet these requirements, so always read labels to find a good one. Here's a link to the NEEDS website (discount supplements) that has some good options.
http://www.needs.com/prod_detail_list/htc_Probiotics
Lots of good bacteria in your body is essential to the function of your immune system and thus, your overall health. It's an easy step to take that could possibly yield amazing results in how you feel.
(Remember it takes time for your body to repair and heal itself. When starting a new supplement or program keep this in mind. With some supplements/programs you'll see results faster, but for major improvements in your health, 3 months is a general rule of thumb.)
So go find some good bacteria and give it your support. You'll be amazed how much it supports you and your health in return! =)
Even though it's meant as a joke, there's a lot of truth in it. We do need to support bacteria.
Right now it seems like most people, doctors, and companies are trying to rid the earth of all bacteria! Practically every product from hand soap to trash bags is now labeled "anti-bacterial."
Newsflash: God created bacteria. It serves a vital role in the earth's natural processes. It isn't going to go away anytime soon.
I think all this emphasis on "anti-bacterial" is actually very damaging. The bad bacteria are just getting stronger and more resistant to the chemicals and drugs used to kill them. And the good bacteria are being killed off more and more.
Yes, I said GOOD bacteria. Believe it or not, we need bacteria.
Did you know that approximately 80% of your immune system is in your gut (intestines)?
Whenever I heard that statistic before, I always assumed that was the doctor's way of trying to get me to eat healthier. =) But it's much more than just eating a healthy diet.
Can you guess the reason why 80% of the immune system is in the gut?
Because that's where the GOOD bacteria live!
Think of the good bacteria as the cowboys in the white hats, and the bad bacteria as the rustlers in the black hats. Good guys verses bad guys. When the bad bacteria enters our bodies, it's the good bacteria that's able to fight it off. The good bacteria also fights viruses, candida, and other invaders.
If there's not enough of the good guys in our bodies, then we're in serious trouble.
Because the good bacteria is such a huge part of the immune system, not having enough can cause all kinds of health problems. This includes everything from digestive problems to many things you wouldn't expect, such as: arthritis, chronic fatigue, skin problems, etc.
Certain foods are rich in good bacteria - saurkraut, yogurt, and other fermented foods. However, it's hard to eat enough of these foods to get all the good bacteria you need. (Not to mention that most yogurt has more sugar in it than ice cream has--unless it's plain and unsweetened. Eating yogurt for bacteria isn't worth the trade off of the sugar damage.)
So it's important to supplement with good bacteria.
According to Brenda Watson, author of "The Road To Perfect Health" (http://www.brendawatson.com/) - there are 4 main requirements to look for when purchasing a "Probiotic" (good bacteria) supplement.
It should have -
1) at least 10 different strains of bacteria.
2) a total culture count of at least 15 billion
3) delayed release so it will reach your intestines before being broken down
4) full potency until date of expiration
A lot of probiotic supplements do not meet these requirements, so always read labels to find a good one. Here's a link to the NEEDS website (discount supplements) that has some good options.
http://www.needs.com/prod_detail_list/htc_Probiotics
Lots of good bacteria in your body is essential to the function of your immune system and thus, your overall health. It's an easy step to take that could possibly yield amazing results in how you feel.
(Remember it takes time for your body to repair and heal itself. When starting a new supplement or program keep this in mind. With some supplements/programs you'll see results faster, but for major improvements in your health, 3 months is a general rule of thumb.)
So go find some good bacteria and give it your support. You'll be amazed how much it supports you and your health in return! =)
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Tips for a Less Toxic New Year
The following ideas are things that have become a way of life for all of us with Environmental Illness. For those of you who are still healthy, you can think of them as 'preventative medicine.' =)
"OFF-GAS" ITEMS
Whenever you buy something new, even if it's not made in China, it still contains some amount of toxic chemicals. "Off-gassing" just means helping the item get rid of those chemicals before you put it to use or bring it into your living space. There are several ways to do this.
1) unwrap - Always remove items from boxes, bags, plastic wrapping, etc. and throw away immediately. This is where a lot of the chemicals come from. (If you have to keep a box or other packaging, be sure to store it in the garage or somewhere outside the house.)
2) air - Put the item on the porch, in the garage, or somewhere it can air out for a period of time. This is especially important with large household items like TV, exercise equipment, etc.
3) wash - For clothes and fabrics, wash at least twice before wearing or using. Non-washable items can be wiped down with a damp cloth and a bit of baking soda.
4) sun - Putting items in the sun usually helps them off-gas more quickly. Depending on the item, 20 minutes may be all you can do while 2-3 days is better for other things.
5) zinc - For appliances especially, zinc is a great tool since it binds to mercury. You can put 30 zinc tablets (capsules don't work for this) in a new washing machine for 30 hours and they will absorb much of the "new" chemicals. (Be sure to throw the zinc away afterward as it will be toxic.) For smaller appliances, less is needed, like 20 tablets for 20 hours. It's not an exact science. But any amount will help reduce toxins in the item.
SHOPPING TIPS
1)toxic bags - Many stores' plastic bags are now toxic. I'm not sure if it's a disinfectant, deoderizer, or what. Throw plastic bags away as soon as you get home, or ask for paper bags (I think they aren't as bad), or if possible, take your own bag to the store.
2) toxic receipts - A recent study found the toxin BPA in many store receipts. You can read about it at this link:
http://www.ewg.org/bpa-in-store-receipts/release
If you don't need the receipt, don't take it or throw it away immediately. If you need it, keep a ziploc bag or other sealable container in your car and put receipts in it. Also keep a container of water to rinse your hands after handling receipts. I know it sounds like a lot of trouble, but BPA can absorb through your skin. It's better to take a little trouble and protect your health.
WATER FILTERS
Water is one of the best healing resources for the body. Yet most of our water is contaminated with toxic chemicals and other contaminants. (One dr tested her water and found traces of anti-depressant and anti-psychotic drugs.)
1) whole house - You can get a whole-house water filter at Lowe's for less than $100. It removes some basic chemicals like chlorine. For all the times you wash your hands, dishes, laundry, etc. it's really good to have this filter, thus less chemicals infiltrating your life.
It does take a little know-how to put this filter in, but the maintenance is simple, just change the filter cartridge about every 3 months.
2) drinking water - One dr I know recommends each person should drink half their body weight in water (in oz) per day. So for 140lbs, drink 70 oz of water a day. I don't know anyone, besides myself, who actually does this. Yet it's one of the most important, and easiest, things you can do for your health.
I drink Evian bottled water because that's the only kind that I don't react to, but most experts agree that filtered tap water is as good or sometimes better than bottled water, depending on the variables. Here's a link with lots of information all about water filters.
http://www.ewg.org/tap-water/getawaterfilter
3) shower filter - My dr once told me that when I take a shower, it's like drinking a big glass of that water. Our bodies are like sponges, absorbing what touches the skin. That's why a shower filter is so important (even on top of a whole house filter). Here's a link to one like the one I have, but I'm sure there are other good ones as well.
http://www.needs.com/product/Elite_Shower_Filter_with_Massaging_Head_White/vsrgb_Elite
Water filters don't have to cost thousands of dollars to be helpful. Just find ones that work for you and then make the most of the wonderful gift of water!
TOP 10
Finally, here's a list of tips from the Natural News website, that I think is worth repeating here.
Ten powerful ways to protect yourself from toxic chemicals
If you want to protect yourself from these toxic chemicals, here's how to do it:
#1) Don't put anything on your skin you wouldn't eat! Avoid all mainstream consumer skin care, cosmetics and personal care products, period! Need soap? Try natural, organic brands like Dr Bronner's, AnnMarie Gianni or Pangea Organics.
#2) Don't eat foods made with chemicals you can't pronounce. Read the ingredients labels. If the list of ingredients is too long and complex to figure out, it's probably made more with chemicals than actual food.
#3) Don't poison your body with over-the-counter drugs or prescription pharmaceuticals. If you do need to use medication for short-term emergency use, be sure to detoxify your liver afterwards.
#4) Detox your liver, kidneys and colon at least once a year. You can do this with a juice fast combined with detox supplements such as those offered by www.GlobalHealingCenter.com or www.BaselineNutritionals.com (get professional guidance from a naturopath before fasting).
#5) Drink more water. Most people simply don't consume enough water to effectively remove toxins from their bodies. If you don't like water by itself, drink fresh vegetable juices such as celery or cucumber juice (which are actually structured water).
#6) Cleanse your body with parsley, alfalfa, red clover, chlorella or chlorophyll. All these substances can help cleanse your body and eliminate toxic substances that may be detrimental to your health.
#7) Don't fill your home or apartment with products that off-gas toxic chemicals: Air fresheners, perfumed candles, particle board furniture, carpets, glues, etc.
#8) Don't cook on non-stick cookware. These are the worst! Invest in quality copper-clad stainless steel pans and use those. They'll last a lifetime and they don't contaminate your body with chemicals. Don't eat at restaurants that use non-stick cookware. (That's just about every restaurant in the world, it seems...)
#9) Buy certified organic products. In the USA, the USDA Organic Seal is a trusted seal that genuinely indicates organic quality (both in foods and personal care products). Don't be fooled by brand names that use the word "organics" in their name but aren't really organic. For example, "Bob's Organics" may or may not actually be organic. The Organic Consumers Association (www.OrganicConsumers.org) can keep you posted on what's what.
#10) Get the cancer out of your laundry! Stop washing your clothes in toxic brand-name laundry detergents, and stop using brand-name fabric softeners or dryer sheets. Do you have any idea what chemicals are used in those products? The truth would astonish you.
(from - http://www.naturalnews.com/031033_toxic_chemicals_pregnant_women.html)
Well, this turned into a VERY long post. Sorry about that. Hopefully you found something helpful in it though.
May this new year be one of great joy...and less toxins! =)
Blessings,
-Joanna
"OFF-GAS" ITEMS
Whenever you buy something new, even if it's not made in China, it still contains some amount of toxic chemicals. "Off-gassing" just means helping the item get rid of those chemicals before you put it to use or bring it into your living space. There are several ways to do this.
1) unwrap - Always remove items from boxes, bags, plastic wrapping, etc. and throw away immediately. This is where a lot of the chemicals come from. (If you have to keep a box or other packaging, be sure to store it in the garage or somewhere outside the house.)
2) air - Put the item on the porch, in the garage, or somewhere it can air out for a period of time. This is especially important with large household items like TV, exercise equipment, etc.
3) wash - For clothes and fabrics, wash at least twice before wearing or using. Non-washable items can be wiped down with a damp cloth and a bit of baking soda.
4) sun - Putting items in the sun usually helps them off-gas more quickly. Depending on the item, 20 minutes may be all you can do while 2-3 days is better for other things.
5) zinc - For appliances especially, zinc is a great tool since it binds to mercury. You can put 30 zinc tablets (capsules don't work for this) in a new washing machine for 30 hours and they will absorb much of the "new" chemicals. (Be sure to throw the zinc away afterward as it will be toxic.) For smaller appliances, less is needed, like 20 tablets for 20 hours. It's not an exact science. But any amount will help reduce toxins in the item.
SHOPPING TIPS
1)toxic bags - Many stores' plastic bags are now toxic. I'm not sure if it's a disinfectant, deoderizer, or what. Throw plastic bags away as soon as you get home, or ask for paper bags (I think they aren't as bad), or if possible, take your own bag to the store.
2) toxic receipts - A recent study found the toxin BPA in many store receipts. You can read about it at this link:
http://www.ewg.org/bpa-in-store-receipts/release
If you don't need the receipt, don't take it or throw it away immediately. If you need it, keep a ziploc bag or other sealable container in your car and put receipts in it. Also keep a container of water to rinse your hands after handling receipts. I know it sounds like a lot of trouble, but BPA can absorb through your skin. It's better to take a little trouble and protect your health.
WATER FILTERS
Water is one of the best healing resources for the body. Yet most of our water is contaminated with toxic chemicals and other contaminants. (One dr tested her water and found traces of anti-depressant and anti-psychotic drugs.)
1) whole house - You can get a whole-house water filter at Lowe's for less than $100. It removes some basic chemicals like chlorine. For all the times you wash your hands, dishes, laundry, etc. it's really good to have this filter, thus less chemicals infiltrating your life.
It does take a little know-how to put this filter in, but the maintenance is simple, just change the filter cartridge about every 3 months.
2) drinking water - One dr I know recommends each person should drink half their body weight in water (in oz) per day. So for 140lbs, drink 70 oz of water a day. I don't know anyone, besides myself, who actually does this. Yet it's one of the most important, and easiest, things you can do for your health.
I drink Evian bottled water because that's the only kind that I don't react to, but most experts agree that filtered tap water is as good or sometimes better than bottled water, depending on the variables. Here's a link with lots of information all about water filters.
http://www.ewg.org/tap-water/getawaterfilter
3) shower filter - My dr once told me that when I take a shower, it's like drinking a big glass of that water. Our bodies are like sponges, absorbing what touches the skin. That's why a shower filter is so important (even on top of a whole house filter). Here's a link to one like the one I have, but I'm sure there are other good ones as well.
http://www.needs.com/product/Elite_Shower_Filter_with_Massaging_Head_White/vsrgb_Elite
Water filters don't have to cost thousands of dollars to be helpful. Just find ones that work for you and then make the most of the wonderful gift of water!
TOP 10
Finally, here's a list of tips from the Natural News website, that I think is worth repeating here.
Ten powerful ways to protect yourself from toxic chemicals
If you want to protect yourself from these toxic chemicals, here's how to do it:
#1) Don't put anything on your skin you wouldn't eat! Avoid all mainstream consumer skin care, cosmetics and personal care products, period! Need soap? Try natural, organic brands like Dr Bronner's, AnnMarie Gianni or Pangea Organics.
#2) Don't eat foods made with chemicals you can't pronounce. Read the ingredients labels. If the list of ingredients is too long and complex to figure out, it's probably made more with chemicals than actual food.
#3) Don't poison your body with over-the-counter drugs or prescription pharmaceuticals. If you do need to use medication for short-term emergency use, be sure to detoxify your liver afterwards.
#4) Detox your liver, kidneys and colon at least once a year. You can do this with a juice fast combined with detox supplements such as those offered by www.GlobalHealingCenter.com or www.BaselineNutritionals.com (get professional guidance from a naturopath before fasting).
#5) Drink more water. Most people simply don't consume enough water to effectively remove toxins from their bodies. If you don't like water by itself, drink fresh vegetable juices such as celery or cucumber juice (which are actually structured water).
#6) Cleanse your body with parsley, alfalfa, red clover, chlorella or chlorophyll. All these substances can help cleanse your body and eliminate toxic substances that may be detrimental to your health.
#7) Don't fill your home or apartment with products that off-gas toxic chemicals: Air fresheners, perfumed candles, particle board furniture, carpets, glues, etc.
#8) Don't cook on non-stick cookware. These are the worst! Invest in quality copper-clad stainless steel pans and use those. They'll last a lifetime and they don't contaminate your body with chemicals. Don't eat at restaurants that use non-stick cookware. (That's just about every restaurant in the world, it seems...)
#9) Buy certified organic products. In the USA, the USDA Organic Seal is a trusted seal that genuinely indicates organic quality (both in foods and personal care products). Don't be fooled by brand names that use the word "organics" in their name but aren't really organic. For example, "Bob's Organics" may or may not actually be organic. The Organic Consumers Association (www.OrganicConsumers.org) can keep you posted on what's what.
#10) Get the cancer out of your laundry! Stop washing your clothes in toxic brand-name laundry detergents, and stop using brand-name fabric softeners or dryer sheets. Do you have any idea what chemicals are used in those products? The truth would astonish you.
(from - http://www.naturalnews.com/031033_toxic_chemicals_pregnant_women.html)
Well, this turned into a VERY long post. Sorry about that. Hopefully you found something helpful in it though.
May this new year be one of great joy...and less toxins! =)
Blessings,
-Joanna
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
New Year's Challenge
Here we are in a new year - time for making resolutions, setting goals, forming new plans....
This year I want to encourage you to do something that I believe will improve your health and also make a difference.
My challenge is for you to boycott products made in China.
Now, I have nothing against Chinese people. My problem is simply with the products that are made there.
I know a lot of people these days are boycotting made in China products. Most of them are doing it for political, economic, or humanitarian reasons. I'd like to add to that list the very important reason of health and safety.
For whatever reason (maybe poor quality control or greedy companies trying to cut corners...), in my experience, 99% of made in China products are highly toxic.
This may be hard for you to believe, but I've lived with the painful consequences. Think of me as the canary in the coal mine. If the canary keeled over, the miners knew they were in danger and had to get out of there fast. That's me. My body is super-sensitive to toxins.
Anything from notebooks to shoes to appliances made in China, that I've encountered have caused a serious, sometimes life-threatening, reaction in my body, taking days or even weeks to recover from.
As far as we can tell, made in China products have high levels of toxic chemicals such as mercury, lead, aluminum, formaldehyde, etc.
Oddly enough, I almost never have problems with products made in Central or South America, Europe or Japan. I occasionally have reactions to items made in India or Indonesia. But the worst by far is anything made in China.
The problem is that more and more companies are now outsourcing to China. If we as consumers don't send these companies a Financial message soon, it won't be long before we'll have no choice but to poison ourselves with toxic products or do without.
I know this kind of a boycott is inconvenient. Believe me, I've had my share of struggles trying to find safe products made elsewhere. But I also know that I don't care how hard it is, I'm committed to taking care of this body, God's temple. I will do everything I can to keep it from being poisoned by unnecessary toxins.
I'm challenging you to make the same commitment. Please join me in this boycott, and tell at least one other person about this information. Please do this for -
- your own health
- the sake of the people who work in those factories (I imagine they're dropping like flies from the constant toxic exposure)
- the sake of the children in this country (They have no idea about these things and are daily surrounded by toxic products. No wonder so many kids are sick, have ADD, or other problems.)
- and to send a message to those companies that we will not tolerate toxic products
Hosea 4:6 says, "My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge."
Please don't let ignorance about these things destroy your health or the health of those you love. It's time to take action. It's time to start reading tags and labels. It's time to 'talk with your wallet.' It's time to start protecting yourself and your family.
I hope you will join me. I hope together we will make a difference.
Sincerely,
-Joanna
.
This year I want to encourage you to do something that I believe will improve your health and also make a difference.
My challenge is for you to boycott products made in China.
Now, I have nothing against Chinese people. My problem is simply with the products that are made there.
I know a lot of people these days are boycotting made in China products. Most of them are doing it for political, economic, or humanitarian reasons. I'd like to add to that list the very important reason of health and safety.
For whatever reason (maybe poor quality control or greedy companies trying to cut corners...), in my experience, 99% of made in China products are highly toxic.
This may be hard for you to believe, but I've lived with the painful consequences. Think of me as the canary in the coal mine. If the canary keeled over, the miners knew they were in danger and had to get out of there fast. That's me. My body is super-sensitive to toxins.
Anything from notebooks to shoes to appliances made in China, that I've encountered have caused a serious, sometimes life-threatening, reaction in my body, taking days or even weeks to recover from.
As far as we can tell, made in China products have high levels of toxic chemicals such as mercury, lead, aluminum, formaldehyde, etc.
Oddly enough, I almost never have problems with products made in Central or South America, Europe or Japan. I occasionally have reactions to items made in India or Indonesia. But the worst by far is anything made in China.
The problem is that more and more companies are now outsourcing to China. If we as consumers don't send these companies a Financial message soon, it won't be long before we'll have no choice but to poison ourselves with toxic products or do without.
I know this kind of a boycott is inconvenient. Believe me, I've had my share of struggles trying to find safe products made elsewhere. But I also know that I don't care how hard it is, I'm committed to taking care of this body, God's temple. I will do everything I can to keep it from being poisoned by unnecessary toxins.
I'm challenging you to make the same commitment. Please join me in this boycott, and tell at least one other person about this information. Please do this for -
- your own health
- the sake of the people who work in those factories (I imagine they're dropping like flies from the constant toxic exposure)
- the sake of the children in this country (They have no idea about these things and are daily surrounded by toxic products. No wonder so many kids are sick, have ADD, or other problems.)
- and to send a message to those companies that we will not tolerate toxic products
Hosea 4:6 says, "My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge."
Please don't let ignorance about these things destroy your health or the health of those you love. It's time to take action. It's time to start reading tags and labels. It's time to 'talk with your wallet.' It's time to start protecting yourself and your family.
I hope you will join me. I hope together we will make a difference.
Sincerely,
-Joanna
.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)