Christiane Northrup's Blog, page 4

The Weed That is Surprisingly Beneficial to Your Health

If you have ever maintained a yard or garden for any period of time you have most likely encountered dandelions. It seems like just when everything else is looking good, there they are.  You try to pull them just to find them popping us somewhere else. They sure can be annoying!

But did you know that many people consider the dandelion to be an herb and even a vegetable, not a weed? It’s true. The entire dandelion plant is edible—from the leaves to the flower to the roots. And dandelions have considerable health benefits due to their high levels of antioxidants and minerals including vitamins A, C, K, B complex, iron, calcium, manganese, zinc, and potassium.

The Many Health Benefits of Dandelions

Dandelion teas, juices, and tonics (Taraxacum officinale) have been used for centuries to help support different organs and systems in the body. Dandelions have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-rheumatic, and choleretic properties among many others.

The modern herbal monographs consider dandelion extract to be a safe medicinal plant.

Here are just a few of the well-studied health benefits of dandelions:

Increases urination. Dandelion extract is often used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurvedic medicine as a diuretic. Studies show dandelion leaf extract can significantly increase urination to reduce bloating and water retention in the body. This is due in part to the fact that dandelion leaves contain up to nine compounds that are diuretic. Plus dandelion leaf contains high levels of magnesium and 3x more potassium than what is lost during diuresis. So, dandelion leaf may help you avoid electrolyte imbalance and provide a safer alternative to pharmaceutical diuretics that require supplemental potassium, magnesium, and electrolytes.Promotes healthy liver function. Another (TCM) use of dandelion root is as a liver cleanse and is often mixed with other herbs to fight jaundice, hepatitis and even cirrhosis. The Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine states that dandelion root supports liver detoxification and increases bile production. Studies in animals show that dandelion leaf may also have a protective effect on the liver. Both the dandelion flower and root extracts contain lecithin—a liver detoxifierFights COVID-19. In TCM dandelion extract is also used to treat upper respiratory illnesses including bronchitis and pneumonia. Now, a study shows that dandelion extract can prevent infection from the SARS-CoV-2 virus by blocking the ACE2 receptors to which the spike proteins attach and the virus replicates. Dandelion extract was effective in stopping the spike proteins from attaching to lung and kidney cells, as well as inhibiting interleukin-6 secretion, an inflammatory process. The study found that dandelion leaf extract was effective against spike protein D614 and mutant strains including D614G, N501Y, K417N and E484K.Aids in weight loss. While the weight loss effect from dandelion is mostly due to its diuretic effect (and from a gentle laxative effect), dandelion leaf in particular has been shown to have potential as a weight loss aid. In animal studies, mice eating a high fat diet lost weight when given dandelion extract, which suppressed lipid accumulation in the liver. Another study showed dandelion extract inhibited lipase production, which in turn can help usher fat molecules out of the body.Supports healthy glucose metabolism. Dandelion root contains a complex carbohydrate known as fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), which is known to help normalize blood sugar levels. Studies show that FOS reduces hyperglycemia when used in high levels of water extract. It also has an impact on insulin secretion and sensitivity so it may help in the management of Type 2 diabetes.Targets drug-resistant cancer cells. A 2010 study showed dandelion root extract effectively causes apoptosis (cell death) in drug-resistant melanoma cells without causing toxicity in healthy cells. In addition, numerous case studies show that dandelion extract is useful in achieving remission in Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia. Other research shows promise in treating gastric, colorectal, pancreatic and liver cancers.Four Easy Ways to Consume DandelionsEat the leaves. Dandelion leaves are often found in spring salad mixes. When eaten raw they have an earthy, bitter flavor that is similar to endive. You can also sauté the leaves the way you would spinach or kale. Believe it or not the flower and the root are also edible.Drink dandelion tea. The root and the leaves can be made into tea. The recommended therapeutic dosage of dandelion leaf tea is 4–10 grams steeped in hot water up to 3 times per day according to European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy.Try a tincture. Tinctures are an easy way to get the benefits of the whole herb. You can purchase tinctures or make them from whole dandelions.Take a supplement. There are dandelion root and dandelion leaf supplements available. Do you research and try what appeals to you and your specific needs.Who Should Not Consume Dandelion?

As with anything else, there are some people who would do better to avoid dandelion. Here are some instances in which you may want to pass on consuming any form of dandelion:

Allergic to iodine. If you are allergic to iodine or any flowers in the ragweed family such as daisies, chrysanthemums, or marigolds, you may want to avoid dandelions.Taking certain prescription medications. Dandelion can interact with certain medications, including antacids, anticoagulants, lithium, ciprofloxacin, anti-diabetic drugs, and diuretics. Also, because dandelion is a diuretic it can speed up the elimination of any drug from your body. If you’re on any medications, speak to your healthcare provider before consuming dandelion.

Have you tried dandelion extract? What was your experience

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10 Non-Toxic Cleaning Products For Spring Cleaning

Experts say that the average home has roughly 62 toxic chemicals lurking about. That’s significant!  Government regulations regarding labeling of toxic chemicals in cleaning products are pretty lax. Rather than a list of ingredients, what you see instead are those little pictures, like a flame, or skull and cross bones, or even dynamite.

But, what those pictures don’t show you is how all those chemicals can affect even a healthy person over time. For example, many cleaning products use volatile organic compounds to enhance their performance (in other words, you don’t need to use too much elbow grease with these.)  Over time, these compounds can impair neurological functions, cause respiratory irritation, and can even cause cancer or reproductive issues depending on the level of exposure.

Now, if you use one of these chemical-containing cleaning products occasionally with proper ventilation, it is most likely not going to harm you or the environment irreparably. The issue is when you use more than one cleaning product that contains harmful chemicals every time you clean.  Just think of your bathroom for a moment.  You probably have one product to clean mildew from your tub and tile, another for your toilet bowl, one for your mirror, and yet another to clean the surfaces. That can add up to a lot of harmful chemicals.

I know that greening your home can be a challenge. One of the easiest ways to begin making your home a healthy sanctuary is by removing the chemical-laden cleaning products you use and replacing them with greener options. You can do this as you run out of your current products and replace them one by one.

Here are 9 “dirty” cleaning products that I prefer not to use in my own home:Disinfectant Powders and Sprays

The Environmental Working Group found 146 chemicals in Comet, one of the most popular household disinfectants.  Some of these chemicals are known to cause cancer, asthma, and reproductive disorders. The most toxic of the chemicals found in Comet, including formaldehyde, benzene, chloroform and toluene, are not even listed on the label. Try Bon Ami as a safe alternative.

Air Fresheners

While technically not a cleaner, many people use air fresheners and deodorizers to cover up smells in their homes, especially if they have pets. But, air fresheners typically contain toxic chemicals such as 2, 5-dichlorophenol (2, 5-DCP) and 1, 4-dichlorobenzone (1, 4-DCB), as well as endocrine-disrupting phthalates. I prefer to use essential oils in a diffuser as an air freshener.  You can also mix essential oils with baking soda and use as a carpet deodorizer.  Opening a window can do wonders as well.

Tub and Tile Cleaners

Remember the Scrubbing Bubbles TV commercial featuring a cute little bubble that eats all the dirt and mildew?  Well, that product — and many other conventional tub and tile cleaners — is filled with toxic chemicals that act as endocrine disruptors, and can also cause respiratory and nervous system problems.

Spot Removers

We all have had moments where we spill something on the upholstery, or on a silk blouse, and have reached for the spot remover.  Now you may want to think again.  Spot removers contain a chemical known as “Perc,” (short for perchloroethylene,) a neurotoxin that is also classified as a possible carcinogen. Dry cleaning solutions used by commercial dry cleaners also contain Perc.  Try a nontoxic brand of spot remover, such as Ecover, which you can buy at stores or online.  For clothes that say “dry clean only,” try wet cleaning, a professional cleaning process that avoids the use of toxic chemical solvents.  Or, look for a dry cleaner that does not use Perc in their cleaning process.

Liquid Dish Detergents

Most conventional dish detergent liquids, such as Palmolive Eco+ Gel, contain triclosan, an antibacterial agent (also found in antibacterial hand soaps) that has been associated with the growth of drug-resistant bacteria. In addition, these products contain ingredients with the potential for causing cancer, as well as developmental, endocrine and reproductive issues.

Ammonia

Most glass cleaners and all purpose cleaners contain ammonia, which is a powerful irritant.  People with asthma, or other lung issues should avoid all products with ammonia. Plus, ammonia has been linked to chronic bronchitis and is very harmful to the environment.

Oven Cleaners

If you have ever read the warning labels on oven cleaners, such as Easy Off, you probably realize that these are toxic. Ethanolamine is the main chemical in oven cleaners.  It can have a negative effect on all of your organs and systems.  Oven cleaners also contain sodium hydroxide (lye.) I definitely don’t want these chemicals getting in my eyes, lungs, or in my food!

Drain Clog Removers

The chemicals in clog removers, such as Liquid Plumr, are highly toxic to our water and wildlife. In addition, they can cause severe burns and eye damage. Try boiling water, baking soda and vinegar instead.

Lysol Bathroom Cleaner

The bathroom is probably the place where you use the harshest cleaning products. If the smell of bathroom cleaning products, such as Lysol, doesn’t deter you from using them, then you should know that they can put you at risk for a number of health issues, including asthma and other respiratory concerns, allergies, reproductive and developmental problems and even cancer.

Healthy Spring Cleaning Tips For Everyone

Nothing could be more Goddess-like than using products that are safe for your family and the environment.  I am all for making life easy, so if buying green cleaning products is easier for you, then by all means you should purchase the highest quality products you can afford. When buying products at the store, look for a list all of the ingredients on every label.

If you choose to buy your green cleaning products, remember that just because something claims to be “green,” “natural” or “biodegradable” on the label, that doesn’t always mean it’s nontoxic. Be sure to use the Environmental Working Group’s Guide to Healthy Cleaners database to look up products and check their ratings.

If green cleaning products cost more than you are willing to spend, don’t worry.  The good news is that cleaning like a green goddess can be just as easy and less expensive than cleaning with toxic chemicals. All you need are basic, every day items from your grocery store.

Here are some basic ingredients to keep on hand so you can clean just about anything like a green goddess:

White Vinegar – Has antifungal propertiesBaking soda – Eliminates odors and can be used as a gently scouring powderLemon Juice – Non-toxic bleach, grease cutter, and stain removerBorax (sodium borate) – Eliminates odors, removes dirt and acts as a disinfectant.Hydrogen Peroxide (3% concentration) – Non-toxic bleach, stain remover and disinfectant.Liquid Castile Soap (such as Dr. Bronner’s)Club Soda – Stain remover and polisherCorn Meal – For carpet spillsOlive Oil – Furniture polishEssential Oils – Scent, antibacterial properties. (Always follow safety instructions as they are highly concentrated.)5 Green Cleaning Recipes To Keep Your Home Healthy

Here are a few basic recipes and techniques to get you started:

All Purpose Cleaner2 cups white distilled vinegar2 cups waterEssential oil (optional)

You can use this on hard surfaces such as countertops and kitchen floors, even windows and mirrors.

Glass Cleaner1/4 cup vinegar1 quart water

Mix together in spray bottle. Spray on glass and wipe with lint-free cloth. (Note: You can always add more vinegar for a stronger cleaning solution.)

Soft Scrub2 cups baking soda½ cup to 2/3 cup liquid castile soap4 teaspoons vegetable glycerin (preservative)5 drops antibacterial essential oil (optional)

Mix together and store in a sealed glass jar for a shelf life of 2 years.

Use this on kitchen counters, stoves, bathtubs and sinks.

Laundry Soap1 cup soap flakes1 cup washing soda (1/4 -1/2 if you have soft water)1 cup baking soda (1/2 cup for soft water)1-2 tbsp. oxygen bleach (optional for extra whitening power)

Mix all ingredients together and store in a glass container.

You only need one tablespoon per load, but you can add two tablespoons for more soiled laundry.  Use in warm or cold water and it is safe for HE machines.

Note: You can make your own soap flakes by grating your favorite pure vegetable soap with a cheese grater.

Tips: Distilled white vinegar added to the rinse cycle makes a great fabric softener.  It also removes odors.  Hydrogen peroxide is a great whitener and, when used directly on clothes prior to washing, can be used in place of bleach to remove stains

Furniture Polish1/4 cup olive oil1/4 cup white distilled vinegar20 drops Lemon essential oil (or 2 teaspoons lemon juice)

Shake well

Note: If using lemon juice instead of lemon oil, you must store in refrigerator

Tips: Dip a clean, dry cloth into the polish and rub wood in the direction of the grain. Use a soft brush to work the polish into corners or tight places.

Some other easy ways to clean and disinfect without harsh chemicals include:

Sprinkle a toilet brush with baking soda to scrub you toilet clean. To disinfect your toilet, you can occasionally use borax instead. To clean the outside of your toilet, just wipe with vinegar.Wipe away mold and mildew with straight vinegar.Sprinkle essential oil on a cotton ball and place it in a room to give it a fresh scent. (You can even do this in your car!) Experiment with different oils.  Lavender is great for bedrooms to help you relax. Citrus oils smell wonderful for the rest of the house.  Be sure to place out of reach of children and pets.5 Healthy Reasons to Keep Baking Soda On Hand

In addition to the non-toxic cleaning recipes above, baking soda has a many more practical uses and can be a healthy way to save money on cleaning and personal care products.

Here are some of the ways you can use baking soda every day:

Use as a roach killer. Mix with sugar to attract the roaches and place where you have seen the roaches. When they ingest the mixture, the roaches die from dehydration. And you won’t need to spray toxins in your house that can harm your pets. In fact, you can even sprinkle baking soda in your carpets to kill fleas. Just let it settle for up to 12 hours and then vacuum.Deodorize everything. If it stinks you can almost bet baking soda will absorb the odor. Here are few items you can use your baking soda on: Pour some in your shoes to remove odor (be sure to remove the baking soda before wearing your shoes). Pour baking soda down your sink disposer to get rid of lingering food odors. Open a box and set it your refrigerator to absorb odors. Add to your laundry to help remove odors and stains. And use it in your front-load washing machine to remove the mildew odor that can build up over time. You can even use it as an underarm deodorant. Simply add a little warm water until it forms a paste and then rub under your arms.Calm skin irritation. The same paste you make for a deodorant can be used as a salve to soothe skin issues such as sunburns and other minor burns, insect bites and stings, minor cuts, and scrapes, poison ivy, and even diaper rash.Soothe an upset stomach. Baking soda is alkaline (9 on litmus scale). Mix a little baking soda in a glass of warm water and drink to help minor indigestion and heart burn related to stomach acid imbalance. Drinking baking soda may also help ease inflammation in your body and help with pain caused by arthritis and gout. Add Celtic Sea salt, lemon juice and little honey to your baking soda and water to help your muscles recover from workouts.Simplify your bathroom routine. There are many ways to use baking soda in your bathroom. Not only can you clean your shower, toilet and sinks with it, baking soda can be used as a toothpaste. Not only can it make your teeth whiter, but it can help alleviate canker sores. If you don’t have enough time to wash your hair, baking soda can be used as a dry shampoo. You can also try using baking soda as a facial exfoliant and as an antimicrobial/antibacterial to treat acne and ward off future breakouts. Add baking soda to your bath water along with some Epsom salts for a great detox bath that will also relieve sore muscles and soften your skin. Sitting in a baking soda bath can also help alleviate the itching and burning associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs) and vaginal yeast infections.

Be sure to store your baking soda in a cool, dry place and away from sunlight. If you purchase baking soda in a box, once opened you will want to place the box in a sealable polythene bag. This will keep the baking soda fresh.

Don’t place your open baking soda in a cupboard near spices because it will absorb the odors of the spices. This reduces the baking soda’s life. And if you plan to cook with it, the absorbed odors will make your food smell funny. If you are not sure whether your baking soda is still fresh, place a few spoonful in a dish and add a couple drops of vinegar. If it bubbles, the baking soda is fresh.

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13 Habits to Protect Yourself from The Dangers of 5G Radiation

Electromagnetic fields (often referred to as EMFs) are an essential part of the physical world. Electric and magnetic fields occur naturally within our bodies in association with nerve and muscle activity. We also experience the natural magnetic field of the earth and natural electric fields in the atmosphere.

While these natural EMFs are essential to your well-being and life, in general, EMFs from man-made sources—electric currents and voltages from the power system—contribute to pollution that is harmful to you. You are exposed to these harmful EMFs from a wide range of sources including your TV, Wi-Fi, small and large appliances, cell phone radiation, and even the electric meter on your house.

You can’t see EMFs, but if the radiation from EMFs were light, it would look like your world was brightly illuminated even at night—like Times Square times 10. And that light would come through your windows, your walls, your ceilings, and just about every crevice in your home. It would even shine through your bones. If you could hear EMFs, the sound would be similar to a loud tapping noise, as if someone were constantly knocking on your door or other hard surfaces.

Why You Should Be Concerned About 5G Radiation

EMFs, like cell phone radiation, impact our bodies at a cellular level. Science has shown a number of negative effects, including cell membrane damage, loss of calcium ions, and DNA damage. All of this damage on a cellular level has repercussions on your health. In fact, there is even a term for these symptoms—electrical sensitivity. More importantly, we are starting to see that long-term exposure to EMFs has been linked to significant diseases.

The 5G roll-out occurring across the United States and the entire world is largely untested. In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) share regulatory responsibility for the industry, yet neither has performed safety testing on 5G. Some experts have called 5G a “massive health experiment” that will have “disastrous results.”

According to studies, here are some of the potential serious risks associated with EMFs and 5G radiation:

Increased risk of neurogenerative disease. These include diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). One meta-analysis showed that occupational exposure to ELF-EMF was significantly associated with increased risk of ALS. Another study showed a connection between occupational exposure to above-average levels of EMFs and higher mortality rates from ALS.Increased cancer risk. EMF exposure has been considered a possible carcinogen with links to leukemia in children, brain cancer, and other cancers. Since 2016, 400 new independent scientific studies on EMFs have shown the link between harmful EMF and 5G radiation and cancer.Decreased fertility. Both in vivo and in vitro studies show that EMF exposure alters cellular homeostasis, endocrine function, reproductive function, and fetal development. As far back as 2008, a small study at Cleveland Clinic showed that using a cell phone decreases the semen quality in men by decreasing the sperm count, motility, viability, and normal morphology. A larger 2014 study at the University of Exeter showed that normal sperm movement fell by 8 percent when sperm were exposed to cell phone radiation. In fact, male fertility in the Western world has been falling at a rate of 2 percent per year. And a landmark study showed a 59 percent reduction in Western sperm counts from 1973 to 2011. Over time, this could lead to mass depopulation. Women are also at risk. Birth rates among American women have been falling for decades but took a sharp downward turn beginning around 2010, 3 years after the first iPhone was released. In 2016, the fertility rate in the United States had dropped to only 62 live births per every 1,000 women.Increased rates of depression and suicide. Since the early 2000s, studies have shown that severe depression and suicide rates increased among people living within 150 meters of high-voltage power lines.Increased blood glucose in diabetics. A 2008 study showed that EMFs contribute to elevated blood sugar in diabetics and prediabetics. The study concluded that up to 60 million diabetics worldwide may be affected. In addition, EMFs may account for higher plasma glucose levels and thus contribute to the misdiagnosis of diabetes.Increased risk of heart disease. Radiation is a known risk factor for heart disease. It has also been noted by scientists that, at greater EMF strengths or shorter exposures, the body’s ability to develop compensation mechanisms is reduced, so there is the potential for heart-related effect increases.Additional Risks Associated with EMFs and 5G

EMFs have the potential to exacerbate existing health problems in some people. Some of the conditions that EMFs are known to cause include:

Decreased mental performanceInsomnia and sleep disturbancesHeadachesBrain fogHormone imbalancesTinnitus (ringing in ears)FatiguePainWeakened immunityStress, irritability, feeling “wired”Rashes or hivesPremature agingMy Solutions For Lowering Your EMF Pollution Exposure

There are many reasons why some people develop Electrical Sensitivity due to EMFs – from exposure to cell phone radiation to poor nutrition and everything in between. Even if you don’t suffer symptoms of Electrical Sensitivity, here are some ways you can mitigate EMF pollution to improve your health and vitality:

Buy an EMF protection cell phone case.  Cell phones have become necessary for so many of us. They give us freedom while keeping us connected to work, home, family and the world. But, every time you hold your cell phone to your ear, you are absorbing over 50% of the cell phone radiation it transmits. I like Pong cases for cell phones and tablets. The company has a very informative website where you can learn more about cell phone EMFs.  There are many others, so do your own research and try the products that speak to your needs and lifestyle. Even with an EMF protector on your phone, I recommend texting and using a headset when you must speak on it. Better yet, use a landline when possible. These are all great ways to reduce your exposure to cell phone radiation.Avoid body contact with your cell phone and computer.  In addition to buying a phone or tablet case to reduce EMF exposure, try not to have bodily contact with your phone, tablet or laptop. Most cell phone manufacturers recommend keeping at least 10mm of space between you and your phone. Avoid putting your phone in your pocket or your sports bra! And don’t sleep with your cell phone next to your bed. If you must keep your phone next to you at night – for example, if you use the alarm feature on you phone – be sure to keep it at least 6 feet away. Definitely don’t put your laptop on your lap if you are trying to get pregnant.Get grounded.  You have probably heard the term “ earthing .” If you haven’t, it is an easy way to create health in many ways, including detoxing from EMF exposure. You simply put your bare feet on the ground and allow them to soak up the Earth’s negatively-charged electrons. These electrons can help remove anything from heavy metals, to air pollution, to trans fats and can also reduce inflammation, which is the underlying cause of so many diseases today such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune conditions. The Earth’s electrons act like a magnetic mop, cleaning up positively-charged, inflammation-causing electrons and creating balance in your personal electrical circuitry.  Practicing Earthing regularly if you live in a big city, can pose some challenges, but there are special conductive devices that you can use, even while you sleep. You can find these products by searching the term grounding products for humans.Use healing crystals. All crystals have energy, and many can give your own energy field a boost. If crystals and gemstones appeal to you, there are many that can help mitigate the effects of EMF exposure. For more information, click here. You can also ask to be protected by Divine Love.Create a low-EMF sanctuary. Most homes have wireless Internet. If you live in NYC, or any city for that matter, you probably have 20 or so individual wireless networks in range of your computer. To reduce EMF pollution in your home and your neighborhood, turn off your Wi-Fi whenever you are not using it. Simply put your wireless router on a power strip. When you get up from your computer for a while, and especially when you go to bed, just turn it off. When you want to get online in the morning, simply hit the power strip button.Remove smart meters. These don’t save you energy and are constantly emitting erratic, high intensity pulses. Some meters pulse up to 190,000 times per day. That is essentially all day every day! And these pulses can travel up to 2 miles. Research also shows that in many communities where there are wireless smart meters, residents complain of symptoms that did not exist prior to smart meters being installed. In fact, the residents often didn’t know that smart meters had been installed. Some of the symptoms include: headaches, insomnia, fatigue, hearing loss/tinnitus, heart palpitations, weakened immune function, irritability, and decreased cognitive function.Protect your home. Over the past 2 years a huge number of 5G towers were installed across the entire country. They are now activated in just about every U.S. neighborhood (unless you live near certain airports). Disconnecting your home WiFi does not guarantee you are not still being bathed in 5G radiation, especially if your neighbors have an antenna on their roof! But it’s a good start. In addition, you may want to add EMF blockers, such as copper mesh, to the exterior of your home and add others inside near your WiFi router and any router boosters you may have. There are many commercially available EMF protection devices on the market. Do your research to find the best one for you and trust your inner wisdom when making decisions. Also, remember that your beliefs matter. If you believe something is protecting your health, then it probably is!

The 5G—Corona Virus Connection

Over 2 years ago I stated that the symptoms of COVID-19 were the same as radiation sickness and that the worst cases were in areas that have the highest levels of 5G wireless technology—including Wuhan, China where 5G was activated on October 31, 2019, as well as New York City, Seattle, Southern California, and others—compared to cities and states that did not have 5G infrastructure at that time.

This paper from May 2020 detailed the statistically significant correlation between mortality from SARS-CoV-2 and intensity of radiofrequency radiation in 31 countries. The molecular, cellular, physiological, behavioral, and psychological effects of Wireless Communication Radiation (WCR) are explained in-depth in this large body of peer reviewed literature from October 2021.

During the past 2 years, 5G infrastructure was massively expanded across the country. To put 5G radiation in perspective, it’s notable that the natural level of radiation we have evolved to tolerate is in the range of 0.000001-0.00000000001µW/m2 (strength of radiation in watts per square meter). According to experts, the only place we could now find radiation this low is in a cave! By comparison the FCC recommendation for human exposure to wireless radiation is 10,000,000 µW/m2. Add on top of that the increased frequency of radiation with 5G wireless networks that operate at 60 GHz and higher (up to 100 GHz!). That’s a pretty big difference from what we have evolved to tolerate!

So, it goes without saying that if you are living in an area with 5G towers and streetlights all around you, you are at increased risk adverse health events, including COVID-19.

Here are 2 reasons why:

5G depletes oxygen. Oxygen molecules have shared electrons. When we breathe in oxygen, the electrons bind to our hemoglobin, which distributes the oxygen to our red blood cells and ultimately to our vital organs. Oxygen molecules oscillate at a frequency of 60 GHz. Remember, 5G wireless networks operate at 60 GHz and higher (up to 100 GHz!). When 5G is transmitted, atmospheric oxygen absorbs the 5G radiation. When this happens, the oxygen’s electrons are altered making them unable to bind to hemoglobin, which means oxygen cannot be carried to your cells. The end result is oxygen deprivation at the level of the mitochondria.

This is also what happens in severe COVID-19. Other similarities between 5G radiation and COVID-19 symptoms include:

1) Changes to the blood. Some changes to blood include increased clotting time, reduced hemoglobin that can lead to hypoxia, pulmonary embolism, and stroke.

2) Oxidative stress. Oxidate stress increases free radical damage and can deplete glutathione levels.

3) Disruption of the immune system. 5G has the ability to both suppress the immune system and overstimulate it. When immune system suppression occurs, T lymphocytes decrease. When the immune system is hyperactivated, the result is inflammation, cytokine storms, and more.

4) Increased intracellular calcium. This can increase your risk of contracting viruses, as well as cause inflammation, blood coagulation and thrombosis.

5) Cardiac changes. Cardiac changes from 5G include palpitations, arrythmias, myocarditis, even heart failure.

5G radiation awakens latent viruses. Viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens are always in your body. Usually your immune system is working to keep them in check. 5G radiation excites viruses and bacteria making your immune system’s job harder. In addition, the COVID-19 shots contain heavy metals such as graphene oxide and nanotechnologies. These literally turn your body into a 5G router making it more likely that whatever latent viruses you have will be activated in the presence of 5G. I believe this is one reason why people who have taken the shots are falling ill with COVID-19 now.

6 More Ways to Protect Yourself from 5G

1. Take magnesium. EMFs activate the voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) in the outer membranes of your cells. It has been shown that effects of EMFs are reduced by calcium-channel blockers. Magnesium is a natural calcium-channel blocker. If you are deficient in magnesium, as many people are, you could feel increased effects from EMFs. Be sure to take enough magnesium to help protect your cells.

2. Use Zeolite. Zeolite is a natural mineral that binds to heavy metals and radioactive material in the gastrointestinal tract and helps remove them from your body. While this will most likely not protect you directly from EMFs, it can help detox the effects from the COVID shots if you have taken them, and may make you less sensitive to 5G radiation.

3. Eat foods to increase Nrf2. Studies show that Nrf2 promotes DNA repair and detoxification of superoxide, which is generated after exposure to radiation. The Mediterranean and Okinawan diets are said to promote Nrf2. Be sure to eat foods high in phytochemicals and try to include the following types of foods in your diet: Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower); foods high in antioxidants such as bright yellow, red and purple fruits and vegetables; foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, krill, sardines, tuna, flax, walnuts); carotenoids (carrots, squash); onions and garlic for the sulfur compounds; aromatic green herbs (basil, rosemary, thyme, oregano).

4. Support your thyroid. Even if you do not have thyroid disease, it’s a good idea to support your thyroid if you are exposed to 5G radiation. The best way to do this is to supplement with iodine. I recommend Lugol’s solution 2%. Take 2-12 drops/day. Or, try super saturated potassium iodide (SSKI), which you can find online at available from Morgellons’s Direct and many other websites. If you have thyroid problems, be sure to work with your doctor to find the right dose.

5. Build healthy red blood cells. To keep your red blood cells and hemoglobin healthy takes a multi-pronged approach.  I suggest a good multi-vitamin with adequate levels of vitamins A, C, E, B12, folic acid, copper and iron. Eating red meat, especially organ meat, is another way to get iron if you don’t like to take it in supplement form. Eggs, chicken, and leafy green vegetables are also good. You may also want to take chlorophyl, a super greens supplement, or drink green juice. There are many available. Daily exercise for 30 minutes will also help keep your red blood cells healthy. It’s also a good idea to reduce alcohol consumption or cut it out altogether. 

6. Drink alkaline water. Maintaining the proper PH in your body has many benefits. Drinking alkaline water (sometimes called hydrogen water) is an easy way to rebalance your body’s PH. Alkaline water has been shown to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress by activating the Nrf2 pathways. It can also help detoxify acidic waste build-up due to medications, processed foods, and environmental pollution. The main components of alkaline water are magnesium, potassium, calcium and sodium. Alkaline water ionizers can be very expensive. However, you can create your own alkaline water at home by adding baking soda, PH drops, or lemon juice to purified water. While drinking alkaline water will not replace the need for a healthy diet, it can be a good to add to your health routine. Of course, staying optimally hydrated by simply drinking (and eating) enough pure water every day will help keep your body in an alkaline state.

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How to Lower Your Blood Pressure Without Medication

Blood pressure fluctuates all the time, hour-by-hour, and day-by-day, and there has been extensive over-diagnosis and unnecessary treatment of millions of people because of this. In fact, it’s not uncommon for blood pressure to rise simply in response to a doctor’s visit! This is called the “white coat syndrome” and I’ve seen it repeatedly.

On the other hand, bona fide hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a well-known risk factor for heart attack. Twenty percent or more of North American women between the ages of forty-five and sixty-four have mild to severe high blood pressure. Since current statistics show that 1 in 2 women will eventually die from heart disease (either a heart attack caused by coronary artery disease, or a stroke,) it makes sense to know what your blood pressure is and how you can take control of it.

What is High Blood Pressure and Are You At Risk?

High blood pressure occurs when your arteries cannot dilate properly to accommodate changes in blood flow being pumped from your heart. It generally takes many years to develop, and usually you will not have any symptoms. In fact, most people discover they have high blood pressure when they go for a medical check-up.

Many factors are believed to contribute to hypertension. These include:

Diet too high in saturated fat, salt, alcohol or caffeineAge, gender, ethnicity, and family historyUnderlying disease or condition (obesity, high cholesterol, diabetes, pregnancy, kidney disease or hyperthyroidism)SmokingMedications (antidepressants, NSAIDs and decongestants)Lack of exerciseStress (including unconscious fear and panic from childhood trauma)Lead poisoningHead injuriesIllicit drugs (cocaine and amphetamines)

Many of these causes are temporary and curable.

What Should Your Numbers Be?

For years doctors have been uncertain what the optimal blood pressure goal should be. For patients with high blood pressure, the goal has been to lower systolic (top number) pressure to about 140-150 for people over 60 years old. The new 2015 blood pressure guidelines support this more relaxed threshold calling for treatment to lower blood pressure to 150/90 mm Hg for people over age 60, and to 140/90 for adults younger than 60. Yet, a newer study called Sprint, which was supposed to end in 2017, has been concluded early with findings that suggest a systolic pressure below 120 reduces risks for heart attack and strokes by up to 1/3 and risk of death by up to ¼.

I have seen many studies over the years and it’s very hard to prove a benefit in lowering systolic blood pressure below 130 for someone over 60 years of age. In fact, while a systolic pressure that is naturally 120 may be good for some, it is quite another matter to artificially drag someone’s blood pressure down this low with blood pressure medications.

Attempting to reach a target this low would mean giving many people more and more medications. And, in order to see a benefit you would likely have to treat hundreds of people to prevent just one heart attack or stroke! This is known as the number needed to treat, or NNT. The accepted NNT for use of a statin drug is 104. This means that for every 104 people who take a statin, only 1 person has a heart attack prevented! Please read that AGAIN. 104 people are put at risk of adverse effects caused by statin drugs to save 1 person! In fact, as many as 1 in 10 people are harmed by statins. Now consider the potential risk of harm to hundreds by aiming for a questionably low blood pressure target. It is quite substantial, especially when you consider that many of the people who would be harmed are the frail elderly who are at risk for falls, and others who are already taking an array of drugs for chronic conditions, which could potentially interact.

How To Lower High Blood Pressure Without Medication

In my experience, many adults are taking more blood pressure medication than they need. Here are some very simple and effective ways you can lower your blood pressure without medication:

Get Regular Exercise. Simply getting out for a brisk walk every day can help to lower your blood pressure. Other forms of exercise that can help include yoga, biking, gardening and dancing. Move your body in a way that is enjoyable to you for 30 minutes each day. Note that exercise can increase the effectiveness of blood pressure medications, so if you are taking one, be sure to check with your doctor. You may need to reduce you medication over time or even stop it!Use Biofeedback. Biofeedback is a mind-body technique that has a calming effect on the autonomic nervous system. This can produce the long-term benefit of lowing blood pressure to a healthy range. Methods include cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation therapy, guided imagery and psychological education.Improve Your Diet. Follow the insulin-normalizing diet I recommend. You can expect substantial improvements in your lipid profile, your blood sugar, and your blood pressure within two to four weeks.Lose Weight. Even in very overweight women, losing only ten to twenty pounds will often lower blood pressure significantly.Get Enough Sleep. Sleeping fewer than seven or eight hours or getting poor quality sleep can increase blood pressure (both systolic and diastolic.) This makes sense. Physiologically, anything that increases inflammation or contributes to chronic inflammation is going to negatively affect your cardiovascular system. Sleep is the body’s most effective way of digesting excess stress hormones. If you don’t get enough sleep, your stress hormones stay elevated and this increases inflammation throughout your body. This causes your arteries to narrow and even constrict, which results in higher blood pressure.Meditate. Specifically, Transcendental Meditation has been proven to bring about a unique neurophysiological state that leads to a drop in blood pressure. That said, any style of meditation that you practice regularly can help to lower stress hormones leading to lower blood pressure.Release Suppressed Emotions and Heal Hypertension

There is no question that factors such as obesity, salt intake, and a sedentary lifestyle are associated with hypertension. And so is stress – but, not in the way you would expect. According to Samuel J. Mann, M.D., author of Healing Hypertension: A Revolutionary New Approach, hypertension is associated with what we don’t feel. In other words, our old, unhealed or repressed traumas are a major cause for hypertension. To deal with hypertension at its core (or anything else for that matter), it is necessary to bring those hidden emotions to consciousness, and to deal with them directly.

My friend and colleague Annemarie Colbin, Ph.D., the founder of the Natural Gourmet Institute for Health and Culinary Arts in Manhattan, shared her personal experience healing from episodes of extremely high blood pressure—as high as 220/120 – despite her healthy lifestyle. She tried medications and also worked with a number of holistic practitioners such as her chiropractor, homeopath, and acupuncturist, which helped a little, but it wasn’t enough. After reading Dr. Mann’s book and seeing him, she began to look at what hidden emotions she could be harboring. After uncovering a traumatic event during her childhood in World War II Hungary, and releasing the emotions associated with the memories, her blood pressure returned to normal (137/82) within one hour!

No matter what your blood pressure is, when you don’t feel your emotions fully and let them flow through you, they will have a negative effect on your health. The more you truly care for yourself and allow yourself to feel your emotions, including the difficult ones, the better your health will be. And, positive emotions open your blood vessels, optimizing blood flow and lowering blood pressure! So it makes sense that when you fuel your heart and life with the energy of full emotional expression, and full partnership, and you heed your desire for more pleasure, then you will lessen your risk for hypertension, heart attack, stroke, and even dementia.

If all of the above measures fail, then it’s advisable to see your doctor to discuss your options. You may need to use blood pressure-lowering medication for a time. Also, be sure to get your lipid profile and blood pressure checked again every three to six months.

One More Way to Lower Your Blood Pressure Naturally

In addition to the tactics I have stated above, here is 1 more simple way to lower high blood pressure: Take a magnesium supplement!

On January 10, 2022, the FDA announced a new qualified health claim allowing it to be stated that magnesium is effective in reducing the risk of high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. When making this claim the FDA requires qualifying language to be added stating that “evidence is inconsistent and not conclusive.”

If the evidence were truly inconclusive then calcium channel blockers—prescription medications that lower blood pressure by preventing calcium from entering your arteries and heart—would not be effective. This is exactly what magnesium does. In fact, magnesium is nature’s natural calcium channel blocker! The reason the agency has disallowed the magnesium claim for so long (and requires the qualifying statement) is because a naturally occurring substance cannot be patented.

The good news is magnesium is finally getting the attention it deserves as a safe and effective nutritional supplement with many health benefits, including lowering blood pressure. Magnesium works by causing your blood vessels to relax. When you don’t have enough magnesium on board, your blood pressure increases. Both calcium (which causes your heart and blood vessels to contract), and magnesium are necessary to keep your blood vessels and heart functioning properly.

In addition to high blood pressure, studies show that magnesium depletion can cause other serious conditions and symptoms, such as arrythmia, tachycardia, abnormal electrical activity in the heart, arteriosclerosis, angina, blood clots, and even heart attacks. According to the Center for Magnesium Education and Research, the organization that submitted the health claim petition to the FDA, most modern heart disease is caused by magnesium deficiency.

Heavily processed foods are the primary contributor to the average magnesium-depleted diet. Eating foods that are high in magnesium and taking a high-quality magnesium supplement are the best ways to maintain normal blood pressure and heart function.

Another great reason to increase magnesium is that it may help protect you from the dangers of EMFs. Despite the telecom and wireless industries decades-long claims that that non-ionizing radiation is harmless, studies show that exposure to EMFs result in increased cellular calcium, which are lessoned by calcium channel blockers.

Dr. Martin Pall has written extensively about the harmful effects of EMFs. He states that the mechanism of action by which EMFs effect our cells is through activation of voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) in the outer cell membrane. When VGCCs are activated, they open and allow calcium to flow into the cell. Pall says this is what allows EMFs to attack the nervous and endocrine systems, cause oxidative stress and free radical damage (underlies all chronic diseases), produce elevated apoptosis or cell death (implicated in neurodegenerative disease and infertility), lower sex hormones, increase levels of spontaneous abortion, attack the DNA in sperm cells, and cause cancer (via 15 different mechanisms.)

Since magnesium is nature’s natural calcium channel blocker and has many other health benefits, including increasing nitric oxide, I recommend taking a high-quality magnesium supplement. If you are being treated for heart or blood pressure abnormalities, magnesium may lower your need for medications. Be sure to check with your health care provider before taking magnesium.

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13 Things I Am Too Wise For

I often hear people say, “I’m too old for that.” While I believe that you are never too old to do the things you truly love, I do believe we outgrow certain things as we get older. Many of the things we outgrow are the things that don’t serve us, such as making excuses or keeping quiet for fear that people won’t like what we have to say.

As you know, letting go of the things that don’t serve you can be a huge step toward increased health and vitality. And, if you have read my book Goddesses Never Age, you know that the key to becoming ageless is not related to the number of years you have lived on this planet—rather it’s about your own wisdom. Wisdom is affected by your own experiences, preferences, and thoughts. You can be wise at any age.

5 Tips for Creating Your New Year, Wise You List

With the new year in full swing, you may have already made your list for what you want to bring into your life. If you haven’t written anything down, I suggest you try it. Writing down your goals forces you to clarify what you want. By the same token, writing down the things you no longer will tolerate in your life—the things you are too wise for—will motivate you to overcome resistance and act toward achieving your goals. Both are necessary.

Since most of us are filled with motivation at the beginning of a new year, now is a great time to make your “Things I Am Too Wise For” list.

Here is how to get started: 

Write it down. When you write down the things you have already let go, you are creating a reminder of how far you have come.Add to your list. Once you have reminded yourself of how far you have come, write down the things that you know you are too wise for but haven’t quite put into action yet. Let the action of writing it down move you toward letting go.Don’t judge your list. Let your list be as long or a short as you want. No pressure. This is not a one-time to-do list.Make it visible. Place your list somewhere you can easily see it. The point is to use it for inspiration.Continue to add to your list as you become wiser.  This can be both empowering and fun!Things I am Too Wise For in 2021

I don’t believe in being “age-appropriate.” I believe that aging is optional.  There is nothing I am too old for. In fact, as many of you know, I feel younger now than ever!  One of the ways I have become younger is by becoming wiser.

By eliminating the things I am too wise for, I have increased my value and my competence. You can too! Here is my list of things I am too wise for:

Using my age as an excuse. If you have read my book Goddesses Never Age , you’ll notice that I don’t state my age. This is because I have stepped out of the cage of age altogether—I have simply become too wise for ageism. And, as I advise in my book, I don’t think about my age; I don’t celebrate “milestone” birthdays. And, I don’t use my age as an excuse for anything. Instead, I think about taking up space. I feel so strongly that my best years are all ahead.Weighing myself every day. Like many women, I spent decades allowing the number on the bathroom scale to determine the quality of my day. I’m now far too wise for that. My weight has been up, and it has been down. Quite frankly, I’ve found that my happiness is an inside job that isn’t related to my weight.Withholding my beliefs about my spirituality.  I have been known to hold ceremonies and officiate in the way that feels best to me. I call in the Archangels and the 4 Directions. I smudge everyone. I use Divine Love petitions for myself and others. I dance around the fire. I don’t hold back or worry about what others think. The process is about being myself and acting on my true beliefs. Being hesitant about my creativity. Everyone is born creative. We all have individual styles, and we express them in a way that no one else can possibly imitate. I have expanded my creativity in many ways over the years—from dancing the tango to “process painting” and more. I found it exhilarating to be in the creative process and allow my inner self to shine through.Being a fashionista. Carrie Bradshaw put designer shoes on the map for many women. But even before that, for many years, I felt a little embarrassed wearing my L.L. Bean boots to New York City in the winter. Not anymore! While high-heeled or pointy-toed shoes may look sexy, they throw your body out of alignment. Over time, they contribute to bunions, hammer toes, and foot pain. The truth is, I go barefoot whenever I can. I also wear minimal shoes so that walking is like being barefoot. As a result, I have better arches, stronger feet, and more flexibility than ever. Spending time with people who don’t inspire or uplift me. I’m done with putting up with negative people—you know, those people who complain about their spouses, their jobs, their kids, their health, or their families without being able to tap into their power to improve their situations. I am wise enough to love my own company. I no longer need to be with people just so that I won’t be alone. In fact, nothing is lonelier than being with people who drain my energy and have nothing to offer. I love my own company so much that loneliness is a thing of the past. It’s so liberating.Being “Appropriate.” I remember that a friend once called me to tell me her daughters told her that they didn’t want to see her dance like she did at a wedding. They were shutting her down by telling her that her exuberant dancing was “inappropriate.”  My friend was far from inappropriate. She was just enjoying herself on the dance floor. What she wasn’t doing was being “dignified” and “shut down.” I am no longer dignified and shut down. I used to be. I have the home videos to prove it.  But I’m wiser now.Finishing a book I don’t like. If I read 30 pages and I don’t like it, I just stop and give the book away. It doesn’t matter if the book is considered a great classic or ingenious. If I don’t like it, it doesn’t warrant my attention. I feel the same way about television shows and movies. If I don’t like them within the first 15 minutes, they are not going to get better. Every single time I’ve stuck it out thinking that the movie simply had to get better, I’ve been disappointed. And it feels like a couple hours of life have been robbed from me.Speaking to telemarketers. When the phone rings and I hear that delay on the other end, I simply hang up.  Yes, I know that there is a human being on the other end doing his or her job. I bless them first – then I hang up.Watching mainstream news. The mainstream media is owned by special interest groups that want to keep us angry, afraid, and unsure. This has been more evident this year, and many people are waking up to this fact. I give my attention to the people, places, and things that are making a positive difference on the planet—not tearing it down.Believing I need to save others. As a physician, I was trained to rescue others. And believe me, when someone is bleeding or in pain, the tools of medicine are wonderful and amazing. But I have learned that I can sometimes go too far with my rescuer mind-set and that it can even disempower the very people I try to help. So, I simply acknowledge that I am not anyone else’s Higher Power. They have their own. Now I am able to offer information and allow people to find their own answers without thinking that I know what’s best for them.Caring what others think. I’ve been an outlier most of my life—in medicine, in college, in my town, in life in general. When one of my daughters was about 7 years old, she asked me if I was a doctor. I said, “Yes, I’m a doctor.” She said, “Well, you’re not what you’d expect.” She was right! I’ve never been what people expect. I don’t fit into any one group. Though I can merge into almost all of them, I no longer try to be someone I am not.Holding on to guilt and shame. Guilt and shame are feelings associated with self-sacrifice and martyrdom, which are tools of darkness and enslavement. They dim your light and perpetuate the myth that you are flawed. When you love yourself first, you stand as the light. I choose to humbly acknowledge my greatness with humility and shine my light.

What are you too wise for?  Please share your wisdom with me in the comments section below.

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Menopause, Relationships, and the Holidays

The holidays are a crucible for relationship meltdowns. Loved ones with differing expectations, familial patterns, and needs get together to create a “Hallmark moment.” Even in the best of circumstances, this can be a set up for dysfunction and stress. At midlife, it can be even tougher. In fact, relationship crises are a common “side effect” of menopause.

Problems in a relationship at midlife are often attributed to hormonal shifts during perimenopause. What is rarely acknowledged or understood is that these hormone-driven changes affect the brain uncovering a woman’s hidden wisdom and the courage to voice it. If the woman remains silent for the sake of keeping the peace at home or work, or if she holds herself back from pursuing her creative urges and desires, the result can be one or more of the “big three” diseases of postmenopausal women: heart disease, depression, and breast cancer.

On the other hand, when you choose to honor your body’s wisdom and to express what lies within you, it’s a good idea to prepare for some boat rocking, which may put long-established relationships—including your marriage and your relationships with family members and friends—in upheaval.

 

How To Stay True to Yourself During This Holiday Season and Beyond

Change makes people uncomfortable. Even changing your hairstyle can be enough to stir the pot sometimes. Here are few ways to stay true to who you are (and keep your sanity) during family holidays and events:

Expect resistance. See your holiday gathering as the Petri dish it is. Remind yourself that it’s OK not to be the good girl who sees to everyone’s needs except her own. This goes for any pattern you’re trying to break.Grieve and let go. When you end or update a relationship or dynamic that has been around for a long time, you may feel sad. That’s ok. Simply allow yourself to grieve and then let go. By doing so, you’ll be protecting your health for years to come.Laugh. Bringing humor into a situation almost always eases tension.Distance yourself. If being around family members or joining in on a certain tradition is too stressful or emotional, give yourself permission to distance yourself. This may even mean skipping an event you have always attended.Navigating the COVID Holiday Season

Right now, it is as if the entire planet is in perimenopause and relationship crises are everywhere. Never before has there been so much division in families and between friends. And increasingly, when we take a stand in regard to the Covid narrative we create a line in the sand that, in many cases, cannot be crossed or reconciled.

For example, I do not believe that health or safety is being achieved through the experimental jab. And I have found that when it comes to some family members and friends who believe in the injections, no amount of discussion or scientific discourse will change their minds.

This holiday season, here are 3 things to consider:

Define your boundaries. Decide what your boundaries are and lovingly stick by them BEFORE you attend family holidays. For example, if a loved one requires you to get an injection or be tested (with a test the even the CDC has declared worthless by the way), ask yourself how far you are willing to go to appease their fear. Only you know what is truly right for you.

Recently, one of my friends went to a Thanksgiving meal hosted by someone who has been terrified of COVID for months. The host required a negative test. My friend found a rapid test at a nearby Walgreens and presented the results so that her host felt “safe”.  Their gathering was loving and uplifting.  Another friend, however, was told by her daughter-in-law, that she wouldn’t be able to see her grandchildren without being “up to date” on a number of different inoculations. This friend decided it was not worth the personal risk to her own health. She shared her position in a firm, but loving manner and decided not to spend the holidays with her grandchildren. 

Decide what topics are off-limits. There are no shortages of polarizing topics right now. So, one way to ensure harmony at your family gathering is to agree on a list of topics that will be off limits during your time together.  For example, maybe you choose not to talk about politics and vaccine mandates. Or perhaps there is a subject that is personal, such as your relationship status, that you do not want family members asking about. You can say, “I’m excited to be with the family for the holidays as long as we agree that any discussion regarding my love life is off limits.” Get everyone to agree to the off-limit topics in advance and enjoy your time together.Allow yourself to be disowned.  We are experiencing a new time here on planet Earth. (Actually, we are on a new planet altogether.)  There is no going back to the way things were. And there has never been a more crucial time to remain true to yourself. In fact, it could save your life.  If being true to yourself means your family members will no longer accept you, then it is time to allow yourself to be “disowned”. Remember, relationships built on love and respect do not include coercion, control, and criticism. If your family relations are saturated with these, it is time to re-think them. You will find your soul tribe. Then you will finally be free.

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Why You Should Skip Your Annual Check-Up

The other day I received my “health plan” from my insurance company, which informed me that my health plan for the next year is to 1) get a mammogram, 2) get a colonoscopy, 3) have my lipid profile done, and 4) get a blood pressure check.

Clearly my insurance company does not know me or the fact that I have been questioning routines and procedures such as these that have no data to support them for my entire career. They are completely unnecessary. Obviously, I will not be following this “health plan.”

Another completely unnecessary routine is the annual “check-up”. Yet, they have been ingrained in our culture for decades. The problem is that check-ups have evolved into 15-minute meetings where doctors, who typically don’t know you, hand out prescriptions, recommend diagnostic tests to look for diseases you don’t have, and give warnings about impending problems you will encounter if you don’t subscribe to every word they and the medical establishment say.

You see, one of the fundamental beliefs of the medical establishment is that disease is enemy, and our bodies are the war zones. This goes hand in hand with the other fundamental belief that medical science is omnipotent. This has become even more evident during the events of the past 2 years even though the “science” has been one-sided and created to support a narrative rather than to support your health.

Now, I’m not saying you should never seek medical care for a health concern. But, if you are healthy and still scheduling your annual physical and screening tests out of habit, I want to assure you there are better ways to stay healthy. And, when you embark on a course of true health, you stop giving your power over to doctors and the insurance companies that are all incentivized to keep you sick or living in fear that you will get sick!

12 Ways to Avoid Unnecessary Medical Check-Ups

In addition to a healthy diet, appropriate level of exercise, adequate sleep, and other ways I recommend that you  avoid getting sick, here are 12 ways to avoid unnecessary medical check-ups:

Strengthen your belief system around you’re your health. Thoughts and beliefs are stronger than genetics. If you believe you are healthy and will stay healthy, then you most likely will.Listen to your body. Listening to dis-ease before it become disease is the best way to ensure health. When you are in tune with your body, you intuitively know when something needs to be addressed. Often you can address it before it gets to the point of needing medical intervention.Give yourself permission. Often the only thing standing between you and a better, healthier, more abundant life is simply giving yourself a permission slip to be who you truly are meant to be.Take ascorbic acid daily. Good old vitamin C supports health in many ways as both a preventive and a therapy. Of course, there are other supplements that you may want to add to your daily routine at any given time. But vitamin C should be a staple.Get your blood sugar under control. All disease stems from inflammation. Getting your blood sugar under control can is the key to maintaining an anti-inflammatory state.Detox your pineal gland. Your pineal gland plays an important role in regulating almost every function in your body, including reproduction, executive function, growth, body temperature, blood pressure, sensory and motor activity, sleep, mood, and immune function among others.Cultivate healthy relationships. When you are in an energy-draining relationship over time it can take its toll physically as well as psychologically.Release fear. Fear that is constant and held onto for long periods of time creates a biochemical state in your body. This adversely affects your imunity and increases your susceptibility to viruses and bacteria that are all around you. Express righteous anger. Anger often arises from unmet needs, especially at midlife. Expressing righteous anger allows you to heal your emotions and your body.Maintain a healthy microbiome. Eighty percent of your immune system is in your microbiome. Supporting your digestion can go a long way to creating a healthy gut microbiome and optimizing your overall health.Stop watching mainstream media. I have said it many times and after the events of the past 2 years I’m certain that there is no way to remain healthy if you imbibe in a constant stream of fear programming and propaganda. Just turn it off!Don’t get the flu shot. “Flu season” is another one of those medical establishment myths. In fact, flu mortality statistics have been greatly exaggerated (until COVID). Even if they were true, data shows flu shots are ineffective and they are not benign. The risk of adverse events is greater than risks associated with getting the flu for most people. Plus, research suggests that receiving annual flu vaccinations does not lower your risk of disease transmission, so you are not protecting yourself or your community!

My Plan for Achieving True Health Every Year

My plan for staying healthy is the same as it has been for many years. I believe in prevention first. So, I won’t be getting any vaccines or going for any screening tests to look for something just because of my age.

Here’s what I will be doing:

Instead of a mammogram. Instead of getting a mammogram, I will continue to get weekly massages. Massage has many health benefits. It increases relaxation, helps to keep your fascia healthy and protect you from injury, it improves circulation, lowers heart rate and blood pressure, and can improve your immune function.

Instead of a colonoscopy. Instead of a colonoscopy I’ll be doing Pilates. In addition to keeping my core and pelvic floor strong, Pilates helps me move with more energy, balance, and flexibility.

Instead of a lipid profile. Instead of having a lipid profile done, I’ll be weight training 2-3 times per week.  It helps keep my muscles and bones strong. Plus, the more lean muscle you have the more calories you burn!

Instead of blood pressure testing. Instead of testing my blood pressure I’ll be praying. Prayer is real medicine.  When you put your faith in a higher power there is a constant source of healing energy available to your through the Creator. What does your annual health plan look like? Please share your thoughts in the comments section

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Keep Your Breasts Healthy For Life

As women, we have been conditioned to believe that our breasts are two pre-malignant lesions sitting on our chests about to kill us at any moment. The medical community and the media use words such as “detect”, “screen” and “special populations”. This implies that you will inevitably get cancer, so you need to plan for it.

Buying into fear tactics and supporting corporations who profit from them, also known as Pink Washing, is not something I have ever felt compelled to do. That’s because supporting “The Cure” and placing emphasis on women contracting breast cancer and Western medicine curing them does not teach women what we can all do to prevent it in the first place.

I prefer to plan how I will continue to live my life fully and focus on how I can create breast health. While my approach has been considered “alternative” or controversial—and in some circles still is—statistics actually support it! For example, did you know that the risk of a woman dying from breast cancer if she doesn’t have regular mammograms is less than one percent. It’s true! A previous study reported in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that 995.6 out of 1,000 women age 50 will NOT die of breast cancer within the next ten years. This number rises a mere fraction of a percentage to 996 with regular mammography screening. In fact, getting regular mammograms is more harmful because you are subjecting your healthy breasts to cancer-causing radiation.

Of course, sometimes mammograms can be useful, especially if you have a dream that you have breast cancer! Believe it or not, dreams can warn of many things that you can then do something about, including breast cancer, as my colleague radiologist Dr. Larry Burk has documented.

Why Women Buy Into The Fear Around Breast Cancer

There are many factors that contribute to a woman’s fear regarding her breasts. First, there are all the new screenings and treatments that are continually added into protocol, such as 3D Tomosynthesis Mammography, what I call a better mousetrap. And, once screenings and treatment regimens become “standard” it is hard to remove them from practice, even when the evidence supports discontinuing them. In addition, even “enlightened” doctors simply don’t want to risk NOT prescribing regular breast cancer screenings out of fear of litigation.

The reality is, if you buy into the cultural fears around breast cancer, you may be subjecting your breasts to harmful therapies and end up being diagnosed with, and treated for, something that would never harm you in the first place, such as DCIS – Ductal Carcinoma in Situ, stage zero cancer—or cancer you may die with but not from. In fact, there is a movement afoot to change the name of this condition because the name itself scares so many people.

Another major factor that contributes to women’s fears about breast cancer is family history. We have been led to believe that if someone in your family has had breast or ovarian cancer, you will too. Genetic testing for everything under the sun has become commonplace and women are voluntarily removing their healthy breasts and ovaries in an attempt to “save themselves.” This is the reason why prophylactic removal of healthy breasts has increased by 200% over the past 5 years or so! While there are some gene mutations that, if triggered, could possibly result in those genes expressing toward cancer, the reality is that genetics cause less than 10 percent of all diseases. The science of Epigenetics shows that most health problems stem from misperceptions we have learned or acquired, and anyone can change their genetic “blueprint” with their consciousness.

Who Is Really At Risk For Breast Cancer?

What I have seen over many years is that women who are most at risk for breast cancer are those who have difficulty nurturing themselves and receiving pleasure. Women often feel that taking care of themselves and enjoying themselves means they are selfish. But it’s the most important thing you can do for your health and for everyone else! It’s like when flight attendants on a plane instruct you to put your oxygen mask on first before assisting the person next to you. You can’t continually give from a place of depletion without paying the consequences. So, if you do nothing else to create healthy breasts, I recommend you do what is necessary to nurture and love yourself. This means you learning how to receive.

To learn how to receive, follow these 3 simple steps:

Hold an intention to connect with your higher power and to be open to receiving whatever you are meant to receive. You don’t have to be religious. Don’t be afraid to ask your higher power for guidance.Release your expectations of what will happen when you do step 1.Wait for a response. Be open to noticing any changes in patterns in your life that relate to your original intention. Those changes may be something subtle, something physical in your body, or you may receive an overt sign.How All Women Can Create Healthy Breasts

It’s important to remember that your body’s immune system is set up to recognize and destroy cancer cells in the right environment. Here are some health and lifestyle tips that I recommend for creating healthy breasts:

Get Enough Sleep. Sleep restores the body and it’s during sleep that our bodies metabolize stress hormones. Aim for 8 hours per night. Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. Sleep in a dark room. Turn off your cell phone and household WiFi.Exercise regularly. The benefits of regular moderate exercise are innumerable and studies show that physically active women have a decreased risk of cancer. You don’t have to join an expensive gym. Keep it simple with activities that you will stick with such as walking with a friend or dancing to music in your home.Eat a healthy diet. Aim for a diet that keeps your insulin, estrogen and eicosanoids balanced. Include lean protein at every meal. Reduce or eliminate sugar in all forms, including alcohol and packaged foods. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables. Include a good source of iodine from food or as a supplement, as well as Omega 3 fatty acids. Note: It is also well-documented that alcohol consumption increases the risk of breast cancer, even in small amounts. But this fact doesn’t stop most women from enjoying a glass of wine regularly and for many this is not a problem. I believe the reason is that enjoying the pleasure and ritual of a nice glass of wine over dinner with friends is greater than the fear of breast cancer!Optimize Your Vitamin D Levels. The best way to get your vitamin D is from safe exposure to sunlight. But many people need to take a supplement. I suggest taking 5,000 to 10,000 international units of Vitamin D per day. The idea is to maintain a therapeutic level between 50-70 ng/ml.Get Social. Aim for a diet that keeps your insulin, estrogen and eicosanoids balanced. Include lean protein at every meal. Reduce or eliminate sugar in all forms, including alcohol and packaged foods. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables. Include a good source of iodine from food or as a supplement, as well as Omega 3 fatty acids. Note: It is also well-documented that alcohol consumption increases the risk of breast cancer, even in small amounts. But this fact doesn’t stop most women from enjoying a glass of wine regularly and for many this is not a problem. I believe the reason is that enjoying the pleasure and ritual of a nice glass of wine over dinner with friends is greater than the fear of breast cancer!Cultivate a Practice of Self-Care and Self-Love. This is the most important factor in creating health because carving out time to care for and love yourself unconditionally feeds your cells the positive thoughts and emotions they need to reproduce in a healthy way. There are many things you can do to cultivate this type of practice, such as meditate, say positive affirmations in front of the mirror, use Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT, or Tapping), keep a gratitude journal, walk in nature, or simply take time to breathe in and out through your nose fully (this stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system). Do whatever supports you. And, remember, every emotion you have is associated with a biochemical process in your body. So, allow the emotions of pleasure, receiving, and generosity to flow through you regularly.Lovingly massage your breasts. This is an extension of self-love. Regular, pleasurable breast massage is a perfect way to promote breast health! I suggest 5 minutes per day where you loving touch your breast without looking for any perceived abnormalities. And, go bra less as much as possible. This helps stimulate lymph flow, which releases toxins from breast tissue. It can also feel wonderful!Why Breast Cancer Patients Should Pass on Covid-19 Shots

If you or a loved one has breast cancer (or any cancer for that matter) you may have been told by your doctor to get one of the COVID shots.  I disagree with this approach for many reasons.

Here are some things to research before getting the COVID shots:

Cause immune dysregulation. Whether temporary or permanent, suppressing the immune system of someone whose immune system is already compromised is not a good idea. And there is evidence that the jabs are, in fact, causing at least temporary immune suppression. According to Mayo Clinic-trained, board-certified, clinical dermatopathologist, Ryan Cole, M.D.—an expert in immunology and virology and owner of a diagnostic laboratory—laboratory data shows that people who have had the shot have decreased CD-8 killer T-cells, the cells that keep cancer and many viruses in check. Dr. Cole reports seeing a 20% higher rate of endometrial cancer. He also reports a much higher rate of invasive melanoma, as well as herpes, shingles, HPV and other diseases that indicate a weakened immune system in people post-injection. A panel of German scientists have noted sudden tumor growth following the injections of which vaccine-induced temporary immune suppression could be the cause. A May 2021 study shows that mRNA vaccines “reprogram both adaptive and innate immune responses,” which according to the study authors may “contribute to a diminished innate immune response towards the virus”.Inactivate tumor-suppressing proteins. In a 2018 study, researchers at the Sloan Kettering Institute found that changes in mRNA can inactivate tumor-suppressing proteins and thereby promote cancer. They concluded that “mRNA events that are silent at the DNA level are widespread contributors to cancer pathogenesis through the inactivation of tumour-suppressor genes.” Other researchers have noted that mRNA changes, are not limited to blood cancer, but have also been linked to acute lymphatic cancer and breast cancer.It is a leaky shot. Another reason I do not recommend getting the COVID shot if you have breast cancer is because it is “leaky”, which means it does not prevent you from getting SARS-CoV-2 (or spreading it). This means you would be subjecting yourself to potential adverse events and/or long-term health consequences that simply cannot be predicted because it is still experimental while receiving little to no benefit against the current and future variants of SARS-CoV-2.Few benefits in cancer patients. Cancer patients were not included in any of the early trials. Studies that were recently conducted on cancer patients with blood-related cancers show that nearly 50% of patients were unable to mount an immune-response after getting the mRNA jab. By the way this is also the case regarding flu shots and hepatitis b vaccines.No long-term safety data. It typically takes many years to develop a vaccine or therapy and to study the benefits and risks in certain populations. There is no way to know the long-term effects the shots will have on healthy people, let alone people living with cancer. Anyone telling you the shots are “safe and effective” simply has no evidence to support this claim.Safe and effective treatments exist. It has become obvious that early treatment of SARS-CoV-2 is most effective. The medications used in early treatment, including ivermectin, hydroxychloroquine and nebulized budesonide and hydrogen peroxid, combined with natural therapies such as zinc, quercetin, vitamin C, and vitamin D3 are safe and can be used prophylactically to prevent infection.

If you have breast cancer and are set on getting the shot, be sure to have your doctor schedule scans beforehand then follow up several weeks after your second shot (and regularly) to ensure that everything is stable.

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Upgrade Your Health with High-Dose Vitamin C Therapy

I rarely devote and entire blog to a single therapy. And when it comes to treating symptoms, I have never believed in magic bullets. But, if anything comes close, it’s good old vitamin C. 

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble vitamin that your body needs but does not produce on its own. It is instrumental in many of your body’s processes and can also help your body prevent and heal from infections.

Here is a brief history of vitamin C and it’s uses during the past century:

Ascorbic acid was discovered in 1930 by Albert Szent-Györgyi who showed that it enabled the body to efficiently use carbohydrates, fats, and protein. In 1935 Claus Washington Jungeblut, M.D. discovered that vitamin C was both prevention and a cure for polio, as well as hepatitis and herpes viruses. Between1935-1937 he showed that vitamin C could also neutralize other toxins, including tetanus, diphtheria, and staph.In 1944, the Vitamin C Depletion Study was conducted to determine the minimal amount of vitamin C necessary to prevent scurvy. Food shortages caused by the war made foods rich in vitamin C hard to come by. During the study, the researchers depleted the subjects’ vitamin C levels, which created life-threatening emergencies.In 1949 Fred R. Klenner, M.D. reported that he had successfully treated 60 polio patients by injecting large doses of vitamin C. All patients received 1,000-2,000 mg intravenous vitamin C every 2 to 4 hours depending on age for 24 hours, after which their fevers consistently went down. For the next 48 hours, the vitamin C injections were given every 6 hours. All patients were clinically well after 72 hours.Klenner also reported that he successfully used high-dose vitamin C to treat diphtheria, herpes zoster, herpes simplex, chicken pox, influenza, measles, mumps, viral pneumonia, multiple sclerosis, tetanus, heavy metal toxicity, carbon monoxide poisoning, black widow spider and moccasin snake bites, pesticide burns, and much more.In the 1950s, William J. McCormick proposed vitamin C as a candidate for the treatment of cancer.In 1970 the chemist Linus Pauling reported that vitamin C was both preventive and therapeutic for the common cold and published a book entitled Vitamin C and The Common Cold, which became a best-seller. At that time, Pauling was considered the foremost authority on vitamin C. He even stated that vitamin C supplementation could decrease the risk of getting certain cancers by 75%.In 1975 Hugh Riordan, M.D., a leading authority on nutrition and medicine, founded The Center for the Improvement of Human Functioning International Inc. (now the Riordan Clinic). He was most notably regarded for creating the Riordan Protocol for using mega doses of intravenous vitamin C (50 grams and higher) and reporting the positive effects vitamin C has on many chronic illnesses, including cancer and Epstein Barr virus. He authored more than 79 peer reviewed medical journal articles and papers and wrote 4 books. I had the pleasure of working with Dr Riordan when we both served on the board of the American Holistic Medical Association.In 1984, Robert Cathcart, M.D. noted that a patient’s bowel tolerance to oral ascorbic acid increased considerably in proportion to the “toxicity” of their illness.On January 26, 2020, Andrew Saul, Ph.D., named one of Psychology Today’s 7 natural health pioneers and Editor of Basic Health Publications’ popular Vitamin Cure book series, sends press release through his Orthomolecular Medicine News website stating that the coronavirus pandemic can be dramatically slowed or stopped with immediate widespread use of high doses of vitamin C.12 Ways Vitamin C Supports Your Health

Vitamin C is essential to many of your body’s processes.

Builds collagen. It is necessary for collagen synthesis which is important for healing bones, tendons, and ligaments after injury, as well as healing scar tissue and wounds.Keeps your teeth healthy. Vitamin C is also important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.Reduces free radical damage. An antioxidant, vitamin C helps protect your cells against free radical damage, which means vitamin C is protective when it comes to the many chronic health problems caused by free radical damage, such as cardiovascular disease, inflammatory conditions, and even cancer.Lowers cholesterol and blood pressure. Vitamin C helps reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and lowers high blood pressure.Supports endothelial cells. Vitamin C helps preventing endothelial dysfunction, the earliest sign of atherosclerosis.Helps your body absorb nutrients. Vitamin C promotes calcium and iron absorption and helps your body store iron.Supports healthy immune function . Vitamin C has been noted to play a major role in preventing and treating the common cold as well as other viral and bacterial infections by enhancing processes that kill unwanted microbes, supporting apoptosis, and enhancing differentiation and proliferation of B- and T-cells (possibly due to gene regulating effects).Keeps your gut microbiome healthy: High-dose vitamin C supplementation for 2 weeks showed microbiota-modulating effects in healthy individuals. The shifts of bacterial populations seen showed more beneficial bacteria with anti-inflammatory properties that are strongly associated with gut health.Improves metabolic syndrome. Higher vitamin C intake can halt a potentially deadly cycle of antioxidant disruption and health-related problems common in metabolic syndrome Dr. Saul also suggests that high-dose vitamin C may help curb appetite and food cravings.Relieves pain caused by gout. Gout is a painful arthritic condition caused by too much uric acid in the blood. When there is too much uric acid, it can crystallize and deposit in the joints. Higher intake of vitamin C is significantly associated with lower serum uric acid concentrations.May help you quit smoking. One study that Dr. Saul discusses showed that vitamin C spray helped smokers quit smoking without turning to food to replace their cravings and thus not gaining weight!Reduces vaccination side-effects. Vitamin C is a potent anti-toxin. In his paper Vitamin C Prevents Vaccination Side Effects; Increases Effectiveness board-certified cardiologist, attorney and author, Thomas E Levy, M.D., J.D.’s discusses the historical data and studies showing that vitamin C reduces (even eliminates) harmful side effects cause by toxins in vaccines, including mercury and thimerosal. In addition, he discusses the use of vitamin C to increase vaccine effectiveness. He also gives details regarding dosing of vitamin C for different ages and concludes that vitamin C should be part of every vaccination protocol.

My Vitamin “See” Experience  

A number of years ago I was going blind in my left eye from infectious crystalline keratopathy. I was being treated by the head of the corneal unit at the Massachusetts Eye Infirmary in Boston. But the antibiotics were not working, and my vision was getting worse with each passing day.

Fortunately, I had heard Dr. Cathcart speak at one of our medical meetings. And I remembered his recommendation to take enough vitamin C to saturate the tissues (which is when stools get loose). So, I did. I started taking handfuls of 1000mg ascorbic acid capsules.

This completely reversed the condition. The next morning, I woke up and my vision was clear. Nothing like good old vitamin SEE!

How Much Vitamin C Do You Need?

It can be difficult to find information regarding supplements and dosing these days. Nearly a century of reports and laboratory and clinical studies showing the successful use of high-dose vitamin C therapy is not just being ignored. Much of the medical literature regarding vitamin C and other natural therapies is being censored, contradicted, buried by search engines, and even expunge—especially information regarding the established use of vitamin C in preventing and treating respiratory infections.

Why is the clinical information showing the benefits of vitamin C and other nutrients in treating viral respiratory infections being ignored by the medical journals, the media, and the government during a pandemic? For one thing, the medical journals are funded by Big Pharma. And Big Pharma can’t make any money off vitamin C since it’s illegal to patent something that is found in nature.

So, here’s what I want you to know: When it comes to supplementing with vitamin C, you can’t go wrong. There is no harm in it. Vitamin C is not toxic and cannot build up in your body. It is excreted in your urine. And if you take too much you will have some diarrhea, so then you just take less. However, your body can adapt to higher levels of supplementation over a short period of time. So, once you reduce your intake of vitamin C to bowel tolerance, you can try increasing the amount slowly.

If you are healthy and looking to simply support your body with vitamin C, you can start by taking 100-200 mg/day. This can be enough to support your tissues and prevent infection. Taking more can enhance the benefits.

If you are treating an infection, you need to take a significantly higher amount—I’m talking 1gram or more. Again, you want to take it to bowel tolerance. But, remember that when you are sick, your bowel tolerance typically increases in proportion to the toxicity your body is experiencing.

When you are taking larger doses orally, it’s best to spread your doses throughout the day and have a buffer for your stomach. Water is fine if you are unable to eat something every time you take a dose.

There are so many more health benefits of vitamin C supplementation that I have not mentioned here. If you want to research using vitamin C for a specific concern, a good place to start is Dr. Saul’s website and the Orthomolecular Medicine News Service, for which he is the editor.

Are you taking vitamin C?

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Natural Ways to Stay Healthy All Year Long

When it comes to staying healthy, I believe in prevention first. By prevention I don’t mean vaccines and screening tests. I believe in cultivating true health from the inside out by adopting healthy habits such as proper diet and exercise, an enjoyable family and social life, and a personal spiritual practice.

Yet, even healthy people sometimes get sick. And with “cold and flu season” approaching I want to share some of the best ways I know to stay healthy naturally and some natural ways you can treat symptoms so you can recover quickly if you do get sick.

10 Ways to Avoid Getting Sick Keep your gut healthy. In the cooler months, it can be tempting to load up on comfort foods. And I’m all for nourishing yourself emotionally, but it’s important not to forget healthy eating habits altogether. Remember, 80 percent of your immune system is in your gut microbiome. The best way to improve your microbiome is through your diet. So, be sure to eat a wide range of fruits and vegetables, including lots of dark leafy greens, berries, onions, and raw garlic. You may also want to add fermented foods that contain probiotics and prebiotics. This is an easy way to seed your gut with beneficial bacteria. Adding spices such as ginger, cumin, turmeric, oregano, and cinnamon to your food can help to improve your digestion, and they have the added benefit of boosting your immune system because they have antibacterial properties. When you want to indulge in rich foods, try high-quality dairy, nuts and seeds, organic meats and fatty fish, and healthy fats.Take vitamin D. Getting your vitamin D levels in optimal range (between 50 and 100 ng/mL) can help prevent disease, including seasonal affective disorder (S.A.D.), multiple sclerosis, and even breast cancer! In the winter, it can be hard to get enough sunlight for your body to create vitamin D. So, ask your health care practitioner to order a 25-hydroxy vitamin D to determine your levels. Or better yet, go to Grassrootshealth.net and order a home test kit. (You don’t need a doctor’s prescription.) If you have low vitamin D, take 5,000 IU per day of a high-quality vitamin D supplement, and continue to monitor your levels. Remember, it’s still important to get as much natural light as you can. This will help you maintain a positive attitude, which will help boost your immune system.Wash your hands. Washing your hands is the easiest way to prevent colds and flu and to keep from spreading them. The proper way to wash your hands is to rub them together for at least 30 seconds with hot water and plain old soap. Be sure to get the backs of your hands, in between your fingers, and under your nails. Then dry your hands thoroughly. Don’t go overboard with the antibacterial soap and hand sanitizer, and don’t allow yourself to get all “germ obsessed.” When your immune system is healthy, it will protect you.Take a multivitamin mineral supplement. In addition to taking vitamin D, a good multivitamin mineral supplement can help boost your immune system and keep you feeling good. Be sure to look for a high-quality supplement that contains vitamins A and C, along with the minerals zinc and selenium and the amino acid L-carnitine. Glutathione is an important immune-enhancing antioxidant that has been shown to help support your liver, the organ primarily responsible for detox in your body. Turmeric is a great free radical scavenger and does double duty to improve joint and cardiovascular health. If you are under stress, you may want to add an adaptogen, such as ashwagandha, to your supplement routine. And don’t forget to take enough magnesium. Remember, vitamins are not magic bullets, but they can help support your body when used properly. Take the supplements that feel right for your body, and remember that what is right for you now may change, so trust your intuition.Get enough sleep. Adequate sleep is important for your brain and every organ in your body. When I feel like I am getting sick, sleep is my number one remedy because it allows my body to repair. As the days get shorter, take your cue from the sun and go to bed earlier. (You can benefit from doing this even if you are not feeling sick.) Limit caffeine, avoid alcohol, and turn off the television, computer, and phone at least 1 hour before going to bed. Here are some more ways to get a good night’s sleep.Clean your cell phone. Cell phones, computers, and other surfaces you touch frequently can harbor bacteria and viruses, such as rhinoviruses, for up to 48 hours! You can easily clean your phone with an antibacterial microfiber cloth and spray cleanser suited for your device. Also, don’t use other people’s devices if you can avoid it.Keep your sinuses moist. Dry air can cause dry sinuses, and this can certainly be uncomfortable. Keeping your nasal passages moist can help prevent symptoms such as pain and nose bleeds and can even help prevent colds. An easy way to keep your sinuses moist and healthy is to use a saline nasal wash every day. You can buy saline nasal rinses and sprays such as NeilMed Sinus Rinse or Xlear Nasal Spray over the counter. Or you can use a neti pot and make you own saline solution with Himalayan neti salt and warm water. Another way to keep your sinuses healthy this winter is to use humidifiers to keep the air in your environment moist.Move your body. Regular exercise strengthens your immune system. It also makes you feel good. If the winter months make you less likely to get outside for exercise, try doing an indoor workout. There are so many at-home workouts that you can do without owning any gym equipment. Just look on YouTube or other websites for inspiration and routines. You can also try group exercise classes, which not only will keep you moving but will help you stay connected to others and is another great way to strengthen your immune system.Take a sauna. Saunas have many health benefits, and some studies show that regular saunas can reduce your chance of getting a cold by 30 percent. In addition, infrared saunas have even been shown to help prevent a cold from getting worse. One of the reasons is that a sauna-induced fever may stimulate the immune system to increase production of white blood cells and antibodies.Exhale. This is not science but common sense. If you see someone coughing and sneezing around you, don’t inhale. Try to slowly exhale until you are well out of range of the possible contaminants—about 10 feet.Natural Ways to Speed Recovery If You Get Sick

When I get a cold or the flu, it’s usually because I’ve been overdoing things and not getting enough quality sleep. The first thing I do if I become sleep deprived is to allow my body the time to recover. In addition to getting much-needed rest, I like to use the remedies I can find in my kitchen rather than take medicines if I don’t really need to. And you can, too. For example, the B.R.A.T. (bananas, rice, apple sauce, toast) diet is good if you are recovering from an upset stomach or diarrhea. And adding spices to your food can help ease nasal congestion. These are just a couple of ways you can feel better faster.

Here are 9 more easy ways you can recover naturally from common ailments:

Try homeopathy. Homeopathic remedies work with your body to help it heal on a deep, energetic level. For colds and flu-like symptoms, try oscillococcinum. This works whether or not you have been officially diagnosed with the flu to relieve some of the worst symptoms, including fever, congestion, sore throat, and body aches. You can find oscillococcinum at Whole Foods and many drugstores. I also recommend having a homeopathic emergency kit on hand. You can find these online at www.a2zhomeopathy.com. Usually, the 30C kit is all you need.Load up on vitamin C. Vitamin C can do wonders to help you recover from a virus. In fact, IV vitamin C was once used to treat polio, which it cured in some cases. I keep 1,000 mg capsules of ascorbic acid in my home at all times and take it the minute I feel a sore throat or runny nose coming on. I recommend taking 1,000–2,000 mg every hour or so until you reach what is called “bowel tolerance.” At this point, you begin to have loose stools, which means your body is saturated with vitamin C. The amount of vitamin C it takes to get to this point varies.Try echinacea. Echinacea (purple coneflower) has been used for centuries, and studies show it can reduce the duration of a cold. In addition, echinacea may help prevent the common cold.Drink tea. Drinking green tea throughout the day can boost immune function. Add lemon to help thin mucus and honey to soothe a sore throat and fight bacteria that cause infection. Elderberry tea (or elderberry extract in water) is high in antioxidants and can help fight flu symptoms and shorten the duration by several days. If you don’t have any tea or elderberry, you can simply boil some pure water, add a little grated ginger, and take “hot sips” regularly throughout the day.Eat mushrooms. . Mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for centuries to treat a variety of illnesses, maintain health, and prevent disease. Mushrooms are a true superfood. They are prebiotic, so they can improve your microbiome. In addition, mushrooms are a great source of vitamin D. And certain mushrooms are high in antioxidants, such as ergothioneine and glutathione. Some of the best mushrooms to add to your diet to boost immunity include porcini, golden oyster and oyster, pioppini, lion’s mane, maitake, and shiitake. But adding just about any edible mushrooms to your diet can help improve your health.Sip soup. Chicken soup is not only good for the soul, but it can also be good for your body. Chicken soup contains an amino acid (L-cysteine) that can ease bronchial symptoms much like acetylcysteine, a drug used to treat bronchitis, asthma, and other lung diseases. It also contains electrolytes and other nutrients.Gargle with salt. Gargling with salt can ease your sore throat and may actually kill viruses and bacteria in your throat.Do nothing. There are times when you should not treat symptoms. For example, fevers can clear your body of viruses and bacteria. If you have a fever under 102°F, avoid the urge to treat it. You may be uncomfortable for a day or two, but allowing your body to work the way it was designed is often the best thing. Plus, many women will treat a fever then go about their day as they normally would. Avoid doing this! Your body needs rest to recover from illness.Take a nitric oxide supplement. Nitric oxide is the miracle gas molecule that affects nearly every organ and system in your body, and some studies show that nitric oxide may play an important anti-inflammatory and antiviral role in preventing colds and improving cold symptoms. For example, one study indicated that higher levels of nitric oxide are associated with fewer cold symptoms and more rapid clearance of viral infections. Supplements to Prevent and Treat COVID-19

In addition to everything I have mentioned above, there are some specific ways you can protect your immune system to help prevent COVID-19 infection.

As I have already mentioned, optimal vitamin D levels can help prevent acute respiratory infections. This includes both influenza and COVID-19. One possible way vitamin D strengthens the immune system is by regulating cytokine production.

Keeping a healthy gut microbiome is also an important factor in preventing COVID-19 infection as well as other illnesses. A less-than-optimal gut microbiome is associated with proinflammatory cytokines that could predispose you to severe COVID-19. The good news is your gut microbiome responds quickly to what you feed it. So, changing your diet to support your gut microbiome is an easy way to improve your immunity and stave off COVID-19 and other infections. Taking a high-quality probiotic is also a good way to improve your gut microbiome.

Zinc deficiency has been associated with more severe COVID-19 illness. Zinc deficiency can be caused by malnutrition, chronic diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, and even some medications that increase the body’s loss of zinc, such as diuretics. Taking a zinc supplement alone or in combination with a zinc ionophore (such as hydroxychloroquine) has been proven effective in both preventing and treating COVID-19, especially in the early stages. Some experts do not recommend long-term use of zinc supplements because too-high doses over a long period of time can cause copper deficiency and subsequent hematologic and neurologic issues. However, zinc supplements and nasal sprays containing 50 mg of zinc are safe for daily use, especially if you feel a cold coming on. I like Vimergy liquid zinc. I take a small amount daily and more if I am coming down with a cold. You can also get adequate levels of zinc by eating meat, shellfish, chicken, nuts, and lentils.

Another supplement that is instrumental in helping to fight off coronavirus infections is quercetin. Quercetin is a flavonoid that has antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. There is a large body of research showing that quercetin can help fight obesity, type 2 diabetes, circulatory dysfunction, chronic inflammation, high blood pressure, and mood disorders. It has also been found to trigger tumor regression and begin the process of apoptosis. In 2003, when the SARS epidemic broke out, research showed quercetin provided broad-spectrum protection against the SARS coronavirus. In June 2020, a study showed that quercetin interfered in multiple steps of pathogen virulence, virus entry, virus replication, and protein assembly and recommended its use against SARS-CoV-2, in combination with vitamin C because of their synergistic effects. You can take 500 mg of quercetin twice per day. Supplementing with vitamin C will enhance the effect.

Finally, melatonin is shown to help support immune function and prevent severe COVID-19 infection. Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland. Researchers at the Cleveland Clinic reported that patients who were taking melatonin had a nearly 30 percent lower likelihood of testing positive for COVID-19 after adjusting for age, race, smoking history, and various disease comorbidities; the likelihood of testing positive for the virus increased from 30 to 52 percent for African Americans who took the supplement. The usual dose is 0.5–3 mg taken 1 hour prior to bedtime. However, some doctors recommend 3–6 mg. Children should not take melatonin.

Over-the-Counter Treatments to Prevent COVID-19

The CDC has now admitted that fully vaccinated people are not necessarily protected from contracting the Delta variant and can spread it. (This is known as viral immune escape, which immunologists should be talking about!) In fact, some studies show that vaccinated people can have up to 1,000 times more viral load in their noses and mouths than unvaccinated, and therefore can (and are) passing this much higher viral load to others—vaccinated and unvaccinated alike.

One easy way to help protect yourself from contracting COVID-19 is to take measures to reduce the SARS-CoV-2 pathogen load in your own respiratory and nasal secretions. Using a simple povidone iodine (brand name Betadine) mouth rinse and nose spray is an easy way to do this. You simply take a few drops of Betadine in water, swish it in your mouth, gargle and spit it out. For your nose you can either use a dropper or sprayer, spray the same diluted solution into each nostril and snort it out. Do this twice per day.

Iodine has been used for a long time as a safe and effective antimicrobial. You probably remember your mother putting it on scrapes when you were a child. However, if you are allergic to iodine or cannot use it for some other reason, you can use diluted hydrogen peroxide.  Some over-the-counter mouthwashes, such as Listerine, may also be effective for gargling. A placebo-controlled clinical trial testing 4 antiseptic mouthwash/gargling solutions is currently underway.

Additional Resources:

Should You Get the Shingles Vaccine Video

Benefits of Walking Podcast

Vitamin D: What Is the Optimal Range Podcast

Developing Your Intuition: Your Inner Source of Wisdom

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