Amy Myers's Blog, page 34

Green Detox Smoothie

Do you need a healthy breakfast to start your day off right? Or maybe a filling snack to get you through the day? This Green Detox Smoothie is a great way to provide your body with a natural energy boost without the sugar crash normal smoothies can bring on your body. This veggie-packed smoothie is a healthy and versatile addition to any Paleo or AIP diet. You can make it a satiating smoothie bowl with a number of extra toppings to make it more fun and unique every time you need a green smoothie in your day.

Healthy Green Smoothie Ingredients

In just one serving, detox smoothies can offer so many amazing nutrients while promoting detoxification pathways. Green smoothies are  a great way for people to reach their daily servings of vegetables which can support detoxification — especially if they’re struggling to include vegetables in meals and snacks. Use this Green Detox Smoothie as part of a healthy diet protocol or as a grab-and-go option for breakfast. These ingredients deserve a special mention for their health-boosting capabilities.

Spinach

This dark leafy green contains substantial amounts of vitamins C and K, iron, folate, magnesium, and calcium. While your body needs all of these great nutrients, spinach is also full of fiber and antioxidants, which is just what you need in a detox-focused smoothie.

Avocado

Avocado is an unusual fruit —that’s right, there’s fruit in this smoothie too! The monounsaturated fats in avocado are satiating enough to keep you full and energize you through your day. They also help you absorb other nutrients from the veggies in this smoothie. Avocados contain potassium, magnesium, fiber, and a range of B vitamins. They’re also high in antioxidants including beta carotene and Vitamins C and E.

Celery

Celery is a must-have for a true Green Detox Smoothie. A single stalk is a source of several different antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Among these detox-promoting nutrients are Vitamins A, C, and K and flavonoids.

Lemon

Lemon is another food that can support your detoxification processes. This sweet and sour fruit stimulates bile and supports your liver while providing you with antioxidants such as Vitamin C. And although I do enjoy celery, sometimes it’s nice to have a stronger flavor that’s slightly reminiscent of lemonade.

Collagen Protein

I love adding a scoop of The Myers Way® Collagen Protein to all of my smoothies because it benefits the body in so many ways. I’ll get straight to the point with this one — collagen helps your body maintain a healthy gut lining so that you can digest and absorb the proper nutrients your body needs for optimal health!

The Myers Way® Collagen Protein is completely flavorless, so it doesn’t get in the way of any other delicious and fresh flavors in this Green Detox Smoothie.

How to Make Detox Green Smoothie

My recipe for your new favorite Green Detox Smoothie is simple. To make your smoothie, add all the ingredients into your blender and blend until your desired consistency is reached. If you want a smoothie bowl, add a little less water and a little more ice, and serve in a bowl with toppings. Coconut flakes or grain-free granola add texture and healthy fats that can help make this smoothie a fun meal to start your day. For a drinkable smoothie, add more water than ice and enjoy in a glass.

You can also get your Green Detox Smoothie prepared ahead of time. Put the spinach, celery, cucumber, parsley, ginger, and banana in a storage bag. I suggest you wait to add your avocado until the day you make your smoothie for the best texture. The lemon juice, ice, water, and collagen should be added to the blender the day you make your smoothie. 

I don’t recommend blending and storing the smoothie in the fridge or freezer, as the smoothie will oxidize, and the texture will change.

Green Detox Smoothie






Course

Breakfast, Smoothies, Snack


Protocol

Autoimmune Solution (AIP), Candida Breakthrough® and SIBO, Elimination Diet, Paleo, Thyroid Connection




Servings

1

Ingredients

2 handfulls spinach leaves1 stalk celery1 handful parsley1/2 avocado1/2 cucumber1/2 inch peeled ginger (or 1 tsp ground ginger)1/2 banana optional1 scoop The Myers Way® Collagen Protein juice of 1 lemon1/2 cup water1 handful ice

Servings:

Units:
MetricUS Imperial

Instructions

Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until desired consistency is reached.
Notes

Use less water or eliminate it completely to make a thicker smoothie or smoothie bowl.

Do you need a healthy breakfast to start your day off right? Or maybe a filling snack to get you through the day? This Green Detox Smoothie is a great way to provide your body with a natural energy boost without the sugar crash normal smoothies can bring on your body. This veggie-packed smoothie is a healthy and versatile addition to any Paleo or AIP diet. You can make it a satiating smoothie bowl with a number of extra toppings to make it more fun and unique every time you need a green smoothie in your day.

Healthy Green Smoothie Ingredients

In just one serving, detox smoothies can offer so many amazing nutrients while promoting detoxification pathways. Green smoothies are  a great way for people to reach their daily servings of vegetables which can support detoxification — especially if they’re struggling to include vegetables in meals and snacks. Use this Green Detox Smoothie as part of a healthy diet protocol or as a grab-and-go option for breakfast. These ingredients deserve a special mention for their health-boosting capabilities.

Spinach

This dark leafy green contains substantial amounts of vitamins C and K, iron, folate, magnesium, and calcium. While your body needs all of these great nutrients, spinach is also full of fiber and antioxidants, which is just what you need in a detox-focused smoothie.

Avocado

Avocado is an unusual fruit —that’s right, there’s fruit in this smoothie too! The monounsaturated fats in avocado are satiating enough to keep you full and energize you through your day. They also help you absorb other nutrients from the veggies in this smoothie. Avocados contain potassium, magnesium, fiber, and a range of B vitamins. They’re also high in antioxidants including beta carotene and Vitamins C and E.

Celery

Celery is a must-have for a true Green Detox Smoothie. A single stalk is a source of several different antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Among these detox-promoting nutrients are Vitamins A, C, and K and flavonoids.

Lemon

Lemon is another food that can support your detoxification processes. This sweet and sour fruit stimulates bile and supports your liver while providing you with antioxidants such as Vitamin C. And although I do enjoy celery, sometimes it’s nice to have a stronger flavor that’s slightly reminiscent of lemonade.

Collagen Protein

I love adding a scoop of The Myers Way® Collagen Protein to all of my smoothies because it benefits the body in so many ways. I’ll get straight to the point with this one — collagen helps your body maintain a healthy gut lining so that you can digest and absorb the proper nutrients your body needs for optimal health!

The Myers Way® Collagen Protein is completely flavorless, so it doesn’t get in the way of any other delicious and fresh flavors in this Green Detox Smoothie.

How to Make Detox Green Smoothie

My recipe for your new favorite Green Detox Smoothie is simple. To make your smoothie, add all the ingredients into your blender and blend until your desired consistency is reached. If you want a smoothie bowl, add a little less water and a little more ice, and serve in a bowl with toppings. Coconut flakes or grain-free granola add texture and healthy fats that can help make this smoothie a fun meal to start your day. For a drinkable smoothie, add more water than ice and enjoy in a glass.

You can also get your Green Detox Smoothie prepared ahead of time. Put the spinach, celery, cucumber, parsley, ginger, and banana in a storage bag. I suggest you wait to add your avocado until the day you make your smoothie for the best texture. The lemon juice, ice, water, and collagen should be added to the blender the day you make your smoothie. 

I don’t recommend blending and storing the smoothie in the fridge or freezer, as the smoothie will oxidize, and the texture will change.

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"2 handfulls spinach leaves", "1 stalk celery", "1 handful parsley", "1/2 avocado", "1/2 cucumber", "1/2 inch peeled ginger", "1/2 banana", "1 scoop The Myers Way® Collagen Protein", " juice of 1 lemon", "1/2 cup water", "1 handful ice" ],
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The post Green Detox Smoothie appeared first on Amy Myers MD.

Perfectly Paleo Rustic Pear Tart

This Rustic Pear Tart is a delicious dessert for fall and winter that makes a beautiful presentation for any occasion. The flaky, buttery crust pairs perfectly with spiced pears for a rustic, warm treat. My recipe for this Rustic Pear Tart is also gluten-free and dairy-free — a fantastic fit for both Paleo and AIP diets.

A Rustic Pear Tart with Healthy Ingredients

This Rustic Pear Tart is made with healthy, wholesome, real food ingredients that make it perfect for the occasional indulgence. Traditional pear tarts contain flour, sugar, and butter. However, mine does not! To keep this pear tart gluten-free and dairy-free, I replaced the inflammatory ingredients with healthier alternatives that your body will thank you for.

Arrowroot Starch, Coconut Flour, & Tigernut Flour

Arrowroot starch blended with coconut flour and tigernut flour is an excellent replacement for white wheat flour (although the measurements are different for every recipe). This particular blend of starchy flours makes a gluten-free crust that is just as light and flaky as the traditional pie crust your grandmother used to.

Palm Shortening

Sustainably harvested palm shortening is an excellent replacement for butter, and this ingredient keeps my recipe completely dairy-free. Palm oil is high in Vitamin E and contains nearly equal amounts of unsaturated and saturated fats for a healthy balance of essential nutrients.

Applesauce & Coconut Sugar

Traditional recipes for pear tarts are full of refined sugar. This healthier, whole food version gets its sweetness from pears, applesauce, and a touch of coconut sugar. Overall, this recipe contains less than half of the sugar you’ll find in most fruit tarts, and it won’t spike your blood sugar levels.

How to Make this Rustic Pear Tart

This recipe has specific instructions, so it’s important to read through the recipe and familiarize yourself with all the steps before you begin. However, you don’t need to worry — your tart should turn out perfectly if you use these ingredients, measure them correctly, and follow the directions.

You’ll start by making the dough. Shape your palm shortening so that it looks like a cylinder or a log, and then flatten it. Place the flattened log of palm shortening into the freezer for about 15 minutes, then cut into ½ inch cubes. Set this aside for a moment.

Add all the dry ingredients to a bowl and combine thoroughly. Then, crumble your cubes of chilled palm shortening into the dry mixture. Combine everything using either a fork or your hand, being careful not to overmix. I recommend using a fork because you don’t want the palm shortening to get too warm. The mixture should be very dry, almost like sand.

Now, add the coconut milk to your mixture until a dough forms. If the dough is still too dry, you can add additional coconut milk one tablespoon at a time until a pliable dough forms. Allow your dough to chill in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes while you make the filling for your Rustic Pear Tart.

Before you begin to make the filling, preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. 

To make the filling, first stir the cinnamon into the applesauce. Prepare your pears by slicing off the “hips,” then slicing them about ¼ inch thick. Place the pear slices into a bowl and squeeze the juice from half a lemon over the top.

Finally, it’s time to assemble your tart. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and place onto parchment paper, then flatten into a circle about a ½ inch thick. Place more parchment paper on top and roll out the dough with a rolling pin until it’s about a ¼ inch thick.

Transfer rolled dough onto a baking sheet and cover the bottom with the applesauce mixture, leaving about two inches of dough bare around the edges. Then, begin layering your pear slices, overlapping them slightly, around the perimeter working your way towards the inner circle. Use the edges of the parchment paper to help you fold the border of the dough over the pears. Most of the pears will be exposed.

Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 350 degrees and bake for an additional 40 minutes, until the crust is golden brown. Allow to cool completely before cutting.

How to Store this Rustic Pear Tart

If you’re serving your Rustic Pear Tart immediately after it cools, or within the same day it’s made, you can store it on the countertop. If you’re preparing the tart ahead of time or if you have leftovers, store it in the refrigerator.

Perfectly Paleo Rustic Pear Tart






Course

Dessert


Protocol

Autoimmune Solution (AIP), Elimination Diet, Paleo, Thyroid Connection




Servings

8

Ingredients

For the Paleo Tart Crust3/4 cup arrowroot starch3/4 cup tigernut flour1/2 cup coconut flour1/4 tsp sea salt1 1/2 Tbsp The Myers Way® Gelatin1/3 cup sustainably harvested palm shortening1 cup coconut milk2 Tbsp coconut sugarFor the Paleo Tart Filling1/2 cup no sugar added apple sauce1/2 tsp cinnamon2 pears1/2 lemon

Servings:

Units:
MetricUS Imperial

Instructions

For the Paleo Tart CrustMeasure and shape the palm shortening into a cylinder shape and flatten this onto a plate. Place in the freezer to harden, about 15 minutes. Remove from freezer and cut into ½” cubes. Set aside.Add the arrowroot starch, tigernut flour, coconut flour, sea salt, and gelatin to a bowl. Stir to combine.Crumble the palm shortening into the flour mixture and combine using a fork or with your hands. Do not overmix. The mixture should be very crumbly, similar to the consistency of sand.Pour 3/4 cup coconut milk into the flour mixture, adding 2-4 additional tablespoons until the dough can easily be formed into a ball. If your dough is still crumbly, you can slowly add more milk 1 tablespoon at a time until it comes together.Allow the dough to chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes. While the dough is chilling, begin making the filling.For the Paleo Tart FillingStir together the applesauce and cinnamon in a small bowl and set aside.Stand a pear up so the stem is facing the ceiling. With a sharp knife, carefully slice the “hips” off the pear so you are left with a square core. Discard the core. Slice each hip of the pear into roughly ¼” thick slices. Repeat with the second pear. Place all pear slices into a bowl, and cover with the juice of ½ a lemon.Assembling the TartPreheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove chilled dough from the fridge and place it on a sheet of parchment paper. Using your hands, form the dough into a rough circle, sealing any cracks that appear in the dough as you go (this is a rustic tart - it’s not meant to look perfect!) The dough at this point will likely be around ½” thick.Place a second sheet of parchment paper on top of the dough and use a rolling pin to roll the dough out to about ¼” thickness. Carefully slide the bottom layer of parchment paper onto a baking sheet, and discard the top layer. Spread the applesauce mixture in the center of the dough, leaving about 2” around the entire perimeter.Starting with the outer ring, arrange the pear slices over the applesauce mixture, slightly overlapping. Continue around the entire perimeter and then repeat for the inner circle. Fold the edge of the dough over the filling. This will not completely cover the pears and does not need to be even. Bake the tart for 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees, and bake for another 40 minutes. You do not need to remove the tart from the oven as you reduce the temperature. The tart is done with the pears are tender and the crust is golden brown.Allow your Perfectly Paleo Rustic Pear Tart to cool completely before cutting into slices and serving. If you cut into the tart while it’s still warm, the crust will crumble.

This Rustic Pear Tart is a delicious dessert for fall and winter that makes a beautiful presentation for any occasion. The flaky, buttery crust pairs perfectly with spiced pears for a rustic, warm treat. My recipe for this Rustic Pear Tart is also gluten-free and dairy-free — a fantastic fit for both Paleo and AIP diets.

A Rustic Pear Tart with Healthy Ingredients

This Rustic Pear Tart is made with healthy, wholesome, real food ingredients that make it perfect for the occasional indulgence. Traditional pear tarts contain flour, sugar, and butter. However, mine does not! To keep this pear tart gluten-free and dairy-free, I replaced the inflammatory ingredients with healthier alternatives that your body will thank you for.

Arrowroot Starch, Coconut Flour, & Tigernut Flour

Arrowroot starch blended with coconut flour and tigernut flour is an excellent replacement for white wheat flour (although the measurements are different for every recipe). This particular blend of starchy flours makes a gluten-free crust that is just as light and flaky as the traditional pie crust your grandmother used to.

Palm Shortening

Sustainably harvested palm shortening is an excellent replacement for butter, and this ingredient keeps my recipe completely dairy-free. Palm oil is high in Vitamin E and contains nearly equal amounts of unsaturated and saturated fats for a healthy balance of essential nutrients.

Applesauce & Coconut Sugar

Traditional recipes for pear tarts are full of refined sugar. This healthier, whole food version gets its sweetness from pears, applesauce, and a touch of coconut sugar. Overall, this recipe contains less than half of the sugar you’ll find in most fruit tarts, and it won’t spike your blood sugar levels.

How to Make this Rustic Pear Tart

This recipe has specific instructions, so it’s important to read through the recipe and familiarize yourself with all the steps before you begin. However, you don’t need to worry — your tart should turn out perfectly if you use these ingredients, measure them correctly, and follow the directions.

You’ll start by making the dough. Shape your palm shortening so that it looks like a cylinder or a log, and then flatten it. Place the flattened log of palm shortening into the freezer for about 15 minutes, then cut into ½ inch cubes. Set this aside for a moment.

Add all the dry ingredients to a bowl and combine thoroughly. Then, crumble your cubes of chilled palm shortening into the dry mixture. Combine everything using either a fork or your hand, being careful not to overmix. I recommend using a fork because you don’t want the palm shortening to get too warm. The mixture should be very dry, almost like sand.

Now, add the coconut milk to your mixture until a dough forms. If the dough is still too dry, you can add additional coconut milk one tablespoon at a time until a pliable dough forms. Allow your dough to chill in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes while you make the filling for your Rustic Pear Tart.

Before you begin to make the filling, preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. 

To make the filling, first stir the cinnamon into the applesauce. Prepare your pears by slicing off the “hips,” then slicing them about ¼ inch thick. Place the pear slices into a bowl and squeeze the juice from half a lemon over the top.

Finally, it’s time to assemble your tart. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and place onto parchment paper, then flatten into a circle about a ½ inch thick. Place more parchment paper on top and roll out the dough with a rolling pin until it’s about a ¼ inch thick.

Transfer rolled dough onto a baking sheet and cover the bottom with the applesauce mixture, leaving about two inches of dough bare around the edges. Then, begin layering your pear slices, overlapping them slightly, around the perimeter working your way towards the inner circle. Use the edges of the parchment paper to help you fold the border of the dough over the pears. Most of the pears will be exposed.

Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 350 degrees and bake for an additional 40 minutes, until the crust is golden brown. Allow to cool completely before cutting.

How to Store this Rustic Pear Tart

If you’re serving your Rustic Pear Tart immediately after it cools, or within the same day it’s made, you can store it on the countertop. If you’re preparing the tart ahead of time or if you have leftovers, store it in the refrigerator.

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"3/4 cup arrowroot starch", "3/4 cup tigernut flour", "1/2 cup coconut flour", "1/4 tsp sea salt", "1 1/2 Tbsp The Myers Way® Gelatin", "1/3 cup sustainably harvested palm shortening", "1 cup coconut milk", "2 Tbsp coconut sugar", "1/2 cup no sugar added apple sauce", "1/2 tsp cinnamon", "2 pears", "1/2 lemon" ],
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For the Paleo Tart CrustMeasure and shape the palm shortening into a cylinder shape and flatten this onto a plate. Place in the freezer to harden, about 15 minutes. Remove from freezer and cut into ½” cubes. Set aside.Add the arrowroot starch, tigernut flour, coconut flour, sea salt, and gelatin to a bowl. Stir to combine.Crumble the palm shortening into the flour mixture and combine using a fork or with your hands. Do not overmix. The mixture should be very crumbly, similar to the consistency of sand.Pour 3/4 cup coconut milk into the flour mixture, adding 2-4 additional tablespoons until the dough can easily be formed into a ball. If your dough is still crumbly, you can slowly add more milk 1 tablespoon at a time until it comes together.Allow the dough to chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes. While the dough is chilling, begin making the filling.For the Paleo Tart FillingStir together the applesauce and cinnamon in a small bowl and set aside.Stand a pear up so the stem is facing the ceiling. With a sharp knife, carefully slice the “hips” off the pear so you are left with a square core. Discard the core. Slice each hip of the pear into roughly ¼” thick slices. Repeat with the second pear. Place all pear slices into a bowl, and cover with the juice of ½ a lemon.Assembling the TartPreheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove chilled dough from the fridge and place it on a sheet of parchment paper. Using your hands, form the dough into a rough circle, sealing any cracks that appear in the dough as you go (this is a rustic tart - it’s not meant to look perfect!) The dough at this point will likely be around ½” thick.Place a second sheet of parchment paper on top of the dough and use a rolling pin to roll the dough out to about ¼” thickness. Carefully slide the bottom layer of parchment paper onto a baking sheet, and discard the top layer. Spread the applesauce mixture in the center of the dough, leaving about 2” around the entire perimeter.Starting with the outer ring, arrange the pear slices over the applesauce mixture, slightly overlapping. Continue around the entire perimeter and then repeat for the inner circle. Fold the edge of the dough over the filling. This will not completely cover the pears and does not need to be even. Bake the tart for 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees, and bake for another 40 minutes. You do not need to remove the tart from the oven as you reduce the temperature. The tart is done with the pears are tender and the crust is golden brown.Allow your Perfectly Paleo Rustic Pear Tart to cool completely before cutting into slices and serving. If you cut into the tart while it’s still warm, the crust will crumble.
",
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The post Perfectly Paleo Rustic Pear Tart appeared first on Amy Myers MD.

CBD and Your Endocannabinoid System: How it Works

Significant science is showing that chemical compounds in Cannabis sativa have beneficial properties. Regardless of how you may feel about the recreational use of marijuana (aka pot or weed), or even medical marijuana, these compounds, called cannabinoids, impact human health.

What’s more, scientists have discovered that we have an extensive network of endocannabinoid receptors in our bodies. This has been termed the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system makes our bodies very receptive to the potential health benefits of cannabinoids.  

As a functional medicine physician as well as a medical doctor, I’m always interested in learning more about natural ways to take back our health. I’d like to share with you what I’ve discovered about the endocannabinoid system and CBD. With knowledge, you can make the best decisions about the tools you can use on your journey to optimal health.

What is Cannabis?

The complexity of the cannabis or Cannabis sativa plant is due to its distinct compounds. There are more than 500 of them! These include terpenoids, flavonoids, omega fatty acids, and over 100 different cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are found only in the cannabis plant. 

The most well-known cannabinoid is THC or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. This is responsible for the psychoactive effects of being “high.” It alters mental capacity and motor function.

Before we go any farther, let me explain the two types of cannabis plants: hemp and marijuana. Hemp has been used for more than 10,000 years as a source of fiber, protein, and oils. Industrial hemp has been used to make items including paper, clothing, rope, and building materials. It has far less THC (below 0.3%) than marijuana and simply cannot get anyone “high.”  

The purpose of THC in the cannabis plant is for survival. Cannabis grows in many different environments. From tropical regions to cold mountainous regions, cannabis has successfully adapted due to the protective cannabinoid, THC, in the plants. It prevents herbivores from eating the plant, protects the plant in cold weather, minimizes water loss, and attracts pollinators.1

However, the story doesn’t end here. There is also a cannabinoid called CBD or cannabidiol. This does not cause a high, and possesses medically useful properties.

What is CBD?

Right now, CBD is the most promising cannabinoid. Because the hemp plant is legal throughout the United States and doesn’t have enough THC to cause a “high,” it is a good source of CBD.

According to the World Health Association, “In humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential….To date, there is no evidence of public health related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.”  

Furthermore, CBD has been effective in treating some of the cruelest childhood epilepsy syndromes, such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. These typically don’t respond to antiseizure medications. CBD was able to reduce the number of seizures, and in some cases, stop them altogether. After controlled clinical trials, the FDA recently approved the first cannabis-derived medicine for these conditions, Epidiolex, which contains CBD.2

What is the Endocannabinoid System?

An astonishing fact is that our bodies actually produce chemicals similar to ones in the cannabis plant, called endocannabinoids. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a unique communications system that is very extensive and elaborate. 

It consists of three main components: endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and the enzymes that break the cannabinoids down. The ECS exists throughout our bodies. For example, it’s on immune cells in our bloodstream, all over our nervous system, on the entire axis of the spinal cord, and in virtually every cell in the brain. There are even cannabinoid receptors in our skin.

The role of the endocannabinoid system is to keep our bodies in a state of complete balance called homeostasis. When we achieve internal homeostasis, we experience peak health. The ECS system regulates pain, stress, appetite, energy, cardiovascular function, reward perception, reproduction, and sleep, to name a few.  

A lack of homeostasis can be caused by an endocannabinoid deficiency. More research is needed to determine standards and establish a clinical endocannabinoid deficiency or CECD. However, a deficiency has been linked to IBS, migraines, and fibromyalgia. In the meantime, let’s take a closer look at the main components of the endocannabinoid system.

Endocannabinoids

Endocannabinoids are naturally produced within our bodies. The two main types of these endogenous cannabinoids include anandamide (AEA) and 2-AG (or 2-arachadonoyl-glycerol).3 Anandamide was just uncovered in the 1990s! It is involved in regulating mood, memory, pain, cognition, and emotions. 2-AG is associated with pain relief, suppressing vomiting, appetite stimulation, and inhibiting tumor growth.

Cannabinoid Receptors

The second part of the ECS are the cannabinoid receptors. These are cell membrane receptors that bind cannabinoids to trigger cell responses. There are cannabinoid receptors in the brain as well as nearly everywhere else in the body.4 There are two main types. 

CB1 receptors are mainly in the central nervous system. These affect motor and cognitive function. The CB1 receptor is what responds to THC yet it also responds to the body’s naturally occurring endocannabinoids — anandamide and 2-AG. 

CB2 receptors are in the immune system and play a pivotal role in neuroprotection and neuroinflammation. CBD can bind to at least 12 sites of action in the brain. These activate multiple pathways to elicit feelings of relaxation and improved mood. These action sites are also a part of the ECS.

Typically, brain cells (neurons) communicate with each other and with the rest of the body by sending chemical messages. These neurotransmitters coordinate and regulate everything we feel, think, and do. 

They are released by a presynaptic cell. They then travel across a small gap (the synapse), and attach to specific receptors located on a postsynaptic cell. This spurs the receiving neuron into action, triggering a set of events that allows the message to be passed along. 

However, endocannabinoid signaling works “backward.” When a postsynaptic neuron is activated, cannabinoids are made on demand from fat cells in the neuron. Then they travel backward to the presynaptic neuron, where they attach to cannabinoid receptors. Since cannabinoids act on presynaptic cells, they can control what happens when these cells are activated.

Enzymes

The third part of the system is the enzymes that break down the endocannabinoids. The enzyme FAAH works quickly on the chemicals our bodies produce, like anandamide, but not on external cannabinoids. This is why THC produces a high and anandamide doesn’t.

What Are the Benefits of CBD?

Now we know that your body makes its own cannabinoids called endocannabinoids. We also have an understanding of the endocannabinoid system. Next let’s look at the main benefits of CBD, which activates your ECS.

Some key benefits of CBD are its ability to make improvements in:

Anxiety and insomnia – CBD changes the way your brain responds to serotonin, which is the “feel good hormone” and promotes sleep.5Anti-seizure – Early research is showing a significant reduction (up to 36%) in seizures for patients taking CBD.6Chronic pain – The effects of CBD on the brain’s receptors may help manage pain in conditions such as arthritis and multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries.Inflammation – Skin problems such as acne are improved by CBD use, as it is anti-inflammatory and reduces sebum (oil) production in the skin.Heart Health – CBD has shown promise in increasing heart health by improving the circulatory system and lowering blood pressure.7Interference with tumor growth and proliferation – Research has linked CBD to anti-tumor activity.8Nausea – The debilitating nausea resulting from chemotherapy has been shown to diminish and even completely abate with the use of CBD.9



How are CBD Products Made?

CBD products are made when the CBD compound is extracted from the cannabis sativa plant  — either hemp or marajuana — and blended with a carrier oil or food product. There are topical creams and salves, sublingual CBD which is dropped under the tongue for quicker absorption, and oils. There are also other delivery systems including suppositories and forms of CBD that can be vaped or inhaled. There are even CBD edibles and gummies.  

Among the most common forms of CBD is oil to be taken orally. To make it, the CBD compound is mixed with a carrier oil such as coconut, hemp seed, or medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, sometimes with added flavorings. You can drop the oil directly in your mouth or under your tongue, hold for a minute or two, and then swallow. It can also be incorporated into beverages.

CBD oil benefits include its easy absorption by the body as well as it’s relatively low cost compared to other forms. There are a few types of CBD oil: full-spectrum CBD oil, broad-spectrum CBD oil, and CBD isolate.

Full-Spectrum CBD Oil

Full-spectrum CBD oil is made from a process which isolates the cannabinoids from the hemp plant. It includes all the types of cannabinoids, including cannabinol (CBN), cannabigerol (CBG), and as well as THC. However, since the full-spectrum CBD is made from hemp, the levels of THC are less than .3% and thus cannot result in a “high.”

Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil

The process to make broad-spectrum CBD oil removes even trace amounts of THC yet leaves all the other cannabinoids.

CBD Isolate

CBD Isolate is another option for consumers. This form of CBD comes in the form of a crystalline solid or white powder. This most refined form is 99% pure CBD with no other cannabinoids or other compounds.

Is CBD Legal?

Both the hemp-derived and marijuana-sourced CBD have legal constraints that depend upon where in the US you live. Effective January 2019, the 2018 Farm Bill legalized the production of hemp plants with THC content below 0.3%, placing hemp-derived CBD products under the guidance of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 

Thus, hemp-derived CBD products (with less than 0.3 percent THC) are legal on the federal level, but are still illegal under some state laws. Marijuana-derived CBD products are illegal on the federal level, but are legal under some state laws. Check your state’s laws and those of anywhere you travel.

Is CBD Right for You?

Because CBD is still so new and the rules governing it are confusing, manufacturing and marketing CBD products are currently a “Wild West” environment. Thus, it’s important to source products from companies you trust to ensure you are purchasing a product contains nothing more or less than the ingredients you think it does. Aim for products created from organically-grown plants which are non-GMO and pesticide-free. 

CBD oil for anxiety is one of the most common uses. It may be used for anxiety disorders, or for short-term anxiety associated with specific events, such as public speaking. Discuss the options, including the appropriate dose of CBD, with your doctor if you suspect it could help you on your journey to your best health. Be aware of possible side effects including:

Irritability. This has been most often seen with the Rx version for epilepsy, which is a high dose.Interactions. CBD can increase effects of the blood thinner coumadin as well as certain other medications.

Remember there is still much research underway regarding CBD, so if you do choose to try it, I advise starting with a smaller dose and working your way up if necessary. Stop using CBD products altogether if you have negative side effects.

CBD research has shown tremendous promise in helping those with serious conditions such as MS and epilepsy. It can also be a support in chronic pain management for those suffering from arthritis and many other painful conditions.  

As I have mentioned in the past, new research can take many years to filter into clinical practice in conventional medicine. As a functional medicine professional, my goal is to help you on your journey to your best health. Take control of your health by staying informed of new research and findings to see if CBD may be right for you.

The post CBD and Your Endocannabinoid System: How it Works appeared first on Amy Myers MD.

Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken

While it looks and tastes restaurant quality, this Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken requires only a few basic ingredients and comes together in under an hour. The flavors from the filling pair perfectly with bacon and chicken. Figs and onion balance out the salty, savory taste of bacon, and round out the taste of this delicious meal with a side of well-seasoned broccoli. This sheet pan stuffed chicken meal is AIP, Paleo, and it’s also low carb! I have no doubt that everyone at the table will enjoy this recipe for Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken.

What is in Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken?

My Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken sheet pan meal is made with wholesome ingredients that easily fit into various diet plans. Here are some of my favorite ingredients that you will find in this dish:

Bacon & Chicken

These two proteins may be the most important part of this dish. Both provide ample amounts of nutrients and a ton of flavor! Bacon adds dietary cholesterol and both monounsaturated and saturated fat to the dish, all of which are necessary for your cells to function properly. It also offers B vitamins, selenium, phosphorus, and other minerals. Plus, bacon tastes delicious, and gives the chicken an appealing, crackly, shiny dress to wear.

Now, let’s get to the big boy — chicken breast is an amazing source of lean protein. Pasture-raised chicken breast lends this meal Vitamin E, more B vitamins, and amino acids. It’s a hearty, comforting favorite for all ages and meal plans.

Figs

This tasty fruit is a great source of fiber, Vitamin B6, potassium, and antioxidants. I opted for dried figs in this recipe. However, I love that this fruit is so versatile, and if it’s the right season, fresh figs are a delicious way to give this recipe a fresh twist with a new texture for the filling.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that can support detoxification and provide significant amounts of fiber, Vitamins C and K, and minerals. While this green veggie serves as your side dish, it doesn’t take a side seat, and easily meets the challenge of battling bacon for your #1 favorite food on the plate.

How to Make Stuffed Chicken

This impressive sheet pan meal is fairly easy to make. Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and preparing your ingredients. Saute onion, figs, and garlic until the onions are browned and translucent.

Now it’s time to prepare the chicken. Use a sharp knife to cut from the top of the breasts to the bottom, being sure not to cut through to the other side. Sprinkle with just a small amount of salt (the bacon will add more salt to this dish) and stuff the breasts with a few tablespoons of the sautéed onion and figs.

Wrap each breast with 2-3 strips of bacon, overlapping the ends and securing with toothpicks. Bake for 20 minutes.

During the first 20 minutes of baking time, you’ll prepare the broccoli. Cut broccoli into small florets and prepare the lemon garlic sauce by mixing melted coconut oil, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Pour the lemon garlic sauce over the broccoli. Carefully remove the baking chicken breast from the oven and arrange the seasoned broccoli around the chicken on the sheet pan. Return the pan to the oven.

Bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reads 165 degrees. If you want to crisp up the bacon more, remove the broccoli from the pan and set the oven to broil. Broil until the bacon is sizzling or to your desired doneness. Once the bacon is done to your liking, take the wrapped chicken out of the oven. Remove toothpicks and serve.

A note on substitutions: I believe that broccoli pairs best with this dish, because it takes on the flavors of the chicken and bacon. However, you can substitute almost any vegetable for the broccoli. Starchy vegetables may need to be added to the sheet pan earlier in the cooking process to ensure they are cooked all the way through.

Other Options to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken

This sheet pan meal is ready to serve on its own for a low carb, flavorful dish. However, you can serve alongside other starchy vegetables such as sweet potato to increase the carbohydrate count. 

You can also roast other vegetables on the same sheet pan, such as asparagus or squash. Just be sure to adjust the cook time so as not to overcook the vegetables.

Can You Freeze Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken?

Yes, you can. Because these Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breasts are made without cheese, the texture won’t change very much if you freeze it. Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing in an airtight container and placing it in the freezer. They should keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.

How to Reheat Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken

These stuffed chicken breasts taste best when reheated in a warm oven. If you’re ready to prepare them straight from the refrigerator, reheat chicken breast in a 350 degree oven until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. If you’re reheating from frozen, it may take 20-30 minutes to completely warm through.

Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken






Course

Main Dish


Protocol

Autoimmune Solution (AIP), Elimination Diet, Paleo, Thyroid Connection




Servings

4

Ingredients

3 Tbsp coconut oil divided1 yellow onion chopped1 cup figs fresh or dried, chopped2 cloves garlic minced4 boneless, skinless chicken breast1 lb nitrate-free bacon1 lemon4 cups broccoli florets sea salt to taste

Servings:

Units:
MetricUS Imperial

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion, sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon salt, and sauté until the onion begins to brown, about 10 minutes. Add chopped figs to the skillet, and cook for another 3 minutes.Add 1 clove minced garlic to the fig and onion mixture, and cook for 2 minutes. Remove skillet from heat.With a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Cut into the side of the breast, starting from the top of the chicken breast to the bottom, being careful not to cut through to the other side. Use ¼ teaspoon salt to sprinkle on the chicken. Stuff each pocket with a few tablespoons of the fig and onion mixture.Use 2-3 strips of bacon to wrap around each chicken breast, overlapping the edges slightly. Use toothpicks to hold the bacon in place. I used about 3 toothpicks for each chicken breast.Place each Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breast on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 minutes.While the chicken is baking, prepare your broccoli. Trim the stalks if desired, and cut the florets into equal-sized pieces. Place cut broccoli in a medium-sized bowl and set aside. Melt the remaining 2 Tbsp of coconut oil In a small bowl. Add ¼ teaspoon salt, 1 minced clove of garlic, and the juice of 1 lemon. Stir to combine. Drizzle the mixture over your broccoli. Stir to coat evenly.Remove your sheet pan from the oven after 20 minutes and arrange the broccoli around the chicken breasts. Place back into the oven for 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken breasts reaches 165 degrees. Remove the toothpicks from each chicken breast before serving with broccoli. Enjoy!
Notes

For crispier bacon on your bacon-wrapped chicken, remove the broccoli from the oven and set the oven to broil. Replace the pan with the bacon and chicken back into the oven. Broil until the bacon reaches desired doneness.

While it looks and tastes restaurant quality, this Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken requires only a few basic ingredients and comes together in under an hour. The flavors from the filling pair perfectly with bacon and chicken. Figs and onion balance out the salty, savory taste of bacon, and round out the taste of this delicious meal with a side of well-seasoned broccoli. This sheet pan stuffed chicken meal is AIP, Paleo, and it’s also low carb! I have no doubt that everyone at the table will enjoy this recipe for Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken.

What is in Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken?

My Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken sheet pan meal is made with wholesome ingredients that easily fit into various diet plans. Here are some of my favorite ingredients that you will find in this dish:

Bacon & Chicken

These two proteins may be the most important part of this dish. Both provide ample amounts of nutrients and a ton of flavor! Bacon adds dietary cholesterol and both monounsaturated and saturated fat to the dish, all of which are necessary for your cells to function properly. It also offers B vitamins, selenium, phosphorus, and other minerals. Plus, bacon tastes delicious, and gives the chicken an appealing, crackly, shiny dress to wear.

Now, let’s get to the big boy — chicken breast is an amazing source of lean protein. Pasture-raised chicken breast lends this meal Vitamin E, more B vitamins, and amino acids. It’s a hearty, comforting favorite for all ages and meal plans.

Figs

This tasty fruit is a great source of fiber, Vitamin B6, potassium, and antioxidants. I opted for dried figs in this recipe. However, I love that this fruit is so versatile, and if it’s the right season, fresh figs are a delicious way to give this recipe a fresh twist with a new texture for the filling.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that can support detoxification and provide significant amounts of fiber, Vitamins C and K, and minerals. While this green veggie serves as your side dish, it doesn’t take a side seat, and easily meets the challenge of battling bacon for your #1 favorite food on the plate.

How to Make Stuffed Chicken

This impressive sheet pan meal is fairly easy to make. Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and preparing your ingredients. Saute onion, figs, and garlic until the onions are browned and translucent.

Now it’s time to prepare the chicken. Use a sharp knife to cut from the top of the breasts to the bottom, being sure not to cut through to the other side. Sprinkle with just a small amount of salt (the bacon will add more salt to this dish) and stuff the breasts with a few tablespoons of the sautéed onion and figs.

Wrap each breast with 2-3 strips of bacon, overlapping the ends and securing with toothpicks. Bake for 20 minutes.

During the first 20 minutes of baking time, you’ll prepare the broccoli. Cut broccoli into small florets and prepare the lemon garlic sauce by mixing melted coconut oil, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Pour the lemon garlic sauce over the broccoli. Carefully remove the baking chicken breast from the oven and arrange the seasoned broccoli around the chicken on the sheet pan. Return the pan to the oven.

Bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reads 165 degrees. If you want to crisp up the bacon more, remove the broccoli from the pan and set the oven to broil. Broil until the bacon is sizzling or to your desired doneness. Once the bacon is done to your liking, take the wrapped chicken out of the oven. Remove toothpicks and serve.

A note on substitutions: I believe that broccoli pairs best with this dish, because it takes on the flavors of the chicken and bacon. However, you can substitute almost any vegetable for the broccoli. Starchy vegetables may need to be added to the sheet pan earlier in the cooking process to ensure they are cooked all the way through.

Other Options to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken

This sheet pan meal is ready to serve on its own for a low carb, flavorful dish. However, you can serve alongside other starchy vegetables such as sweet potato to increase the carbohydrate count. 

You can also roast other vegetables on the same sheet pan, such as asparagus or squash. Just be sure to adjust the cook time so as not to overcook the vegetables.

Can You Freeze Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken?

Yes, you can. Because these Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breasts are made without cheese, the texture won’t change very much if you freeze it. Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing in an airtight container and placing it in the freezer. They should keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.

How to Reheat Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken

These stuffed chicken breasts taste best when reheated in a warm oven. If you’re ready to prepare them straight from the refrigerator, reheat chicken breast in a 350 degree oven until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. If you’re reheating from frozen, it may take 20-30 minutes to completely warm through.

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"3 Tbsp coconut oil", "1 yellow onion", "1 cup figs", "2 cloves garlic", "4 boneless, skinless chicken breast", "1 lb nitrate-free bacon", "1 lemon", "4 cups broccoli florets", " sea salt" ],
"name": "Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken",
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion, sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon salt, and sauté until the onion begins to brown, about 10 minutes. Add chopped figs to the skillet, and cook for another 3 minutes.Add 1 clove minced garlic to the fig and onion mixture, and cook for 2 minutes. Remove skillet from heat.With a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Cut into the side of the breast, starting from the top of the chicken breast to the bottom, being careful not to cut through to the other side. Use ¼ teaspoon salt to sprinkle on the chicken. Stuff each pocket with a few tablespoons of the fig and onion mixture.Use 2-3 strips of bacon to wrap around each chicken breast, overlapping the edges slightly. Use toothpicks to hold the bacon in place. I used about 3 toothpicks for each chicken breast.Place each Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breast on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 minutes.While the chicken is baking, prepare your broccoli. Trim the stalks if desired, and cut the florets into equal-sized pieces. Place cut broccoli in a medium-sized bowl and set aside. Melt the remaining 2 Tbsp of coconut oil In a small bowl. Add ¼ teaspoon salt, 1 minced clove of garlic, and the juice of 1 lemon. Stir to combine. Drizzle the mixture over your broccoli. Stir to coat evenly.Remove your sheet pan from the oven after 20 minutes and arrange the broccoli around the chicken breasts. Place back into the oven for 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken breasts reaches 165 degrees. Remove the toothpicks from each chicken breast before serving with broccoli. Enjoy!
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The post Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken appeared first on Amy Myers MD.

6 Reasons NSAIDs Are Harmful To Your Gut

Headache, fever, muscle aches, back pain, and joint pain. Many people immediately reach for over-the-counter Advil or Motrin, or pharmaceutical Celebrex or Feldene and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to get fast relief from the discomfort of these symptoms. However, these over-the-counter medications are not the miracle cures they are often touted to be. In fact, they have some serious side effects that could wreak havoc on your gut. They can actually lead to conditions that cause inflammation! Before you opt for an NSAID, let’s uncover the details pharmaceutical companies may prefer you don’t know and talk about natural solutions for a healthy inflammatory response such as liposomal curcumin and Omega-3s.

What Are NSAIDs?

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used in conventional medicine to treat inflammation, reduce pain — especially in the joints — and decrease fever. Unfortunately, many people will never even realize their troubles may be just beginning when they reach for these little pills. As I’ve often stated, inflammation is at the root of nearly every modern, chronic illness. And while these medications may reduce the symptoms of inflammation temporarily, they do not get to the root cause of what’s causing the inflammation in the first place. As you’ll see, they can even make it worse. 

However, NSAIDs are among the most widely used medications in the world. You may not even be aware that aspirin is on the NSAID list. Many of these are purchased at convenience stores, pharmacies, and grocers, however, prescription-strength varieties are responsible for about 5-10% of all medications prescribed each year.1 Millions of people are merely masking their symptoms while their inflammatory system is under ever-greater stress.

In fact, the dangers extend far beyond simply masking symptoms. The New England Journal of Medicine estimates that there are 16,500 NSAID-related deaths among patients with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis alone every year in the United States.2 That’s a sobering number. Let’s take a closer look at these common medications, how they can negatively impact your health, and the effective natural solutions you can opt for instead.

How Do They Work?

NSAIDs work by stopping the production of chemicals in your body called prostaglandins which promote inflammation, pain, and fever.3 They do this by blocking cyclooxygenases (COX) enzymes. These enzymes produce prostaglandins, yet they also protect your stomach and intestinal lining.4 This is why NSAIDs can damage your gut. The analgesic effect of NSAIDS isn’t fully understood, and there are various theories regarding how they reduce pain apart from blocking COX enzymes.5

Here are some common NSAIDs:

Prescription:
Oxaprozin (Daypro)
Celecoxib (Celebrex)
Diclofenac (Zorvolex)
Diflunisal (Dolobid)
Indomethacin (Indocin)
Ketoprofen (Orudis, Ketoprofen ER, Oruvail)
Ketorolac (Toradol)
Nabumetone (Relafen)
Piroxicam (Feldene)
Salsalate (Disalcid)
Sulindac (Clinoril)
Tolmetin (Tolectin)

Over-the-Counter:
Aspirin (Bayer, St. Joseph’s)
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Naproxen (Aleve)

Each NSAID comes with a range of negative side effects, including damaging your gut. Those with kidney disease or kidney stones, heart disease, high blood pressure or liver disease, and those over age 65 or who take diuretic medications should be especially cautious about them. This is because they may cause an increased risk of sudden kidney failure and even progressive kidney damage.6

6 Ways NSAIDS Impact Gut Health



1. Bacterial Imbalance

It’s long been known that NSAIDS can cause bleeding, inflammation, and ulcers in the stomach and small intestine. However, recent research suggest that this is the result of dysbiosis, or changes in the gut microbiome balance brought on by these medications. Studies show that the combination of medications you ingest are reflected in the types of bacteria that populate your gut. In one study, celecoxib and ibuprofen users were discovered to have more enterobacteriaceae, which is a family of bacteria that includes E. coli, shigella and salmonella, as well as other disease-causing bacteria.7 Scientists believe that each type of NSAID can affect different bacteria in the gut, causing a different imbalance depending on which one you take. Because each person’s gut microbiome is unique, the effects may vary significantly from one person to another.

2. Digestive Discomfort

The most commonly reported side effects of NSAID use are gastrointestinal symptoms, including gas, feeling bloated, stomach pain, constipation and diarrhea because they disrupt the enzymes that protect your gut lining. One study showed that diarrhea due to NSAID use could last for up to six days after their use.8,9

3. Heartburn/GERD

GERD is short for gastroesophageal reflux disease. It’s a condition that develops when the contents of the stomach returns to the esophagus. The most common symptom is heartburn, one of the many risks of NSAIDS.4,10 GERD symptoms are significantly more common among NSAID users than non-users.11 Both these effects are caused by the fact that NSAIDs irritate the lining of your esophagus, as well as the intestinal lining.12 The symptoms may be so severe and acute that they feel like a heart attack.13

4. Gastrointestinal Ulcers and Bleeding

NSAIDs can cause ulcers and bleeding in the stomach because they block the Cox-1 enzyme and disrupt the production of prostaglandins, which protect your stomach from mucosal damage.14 These are some of the most common side effects of NSAID use. In fact, approximately 15% of patients who take NSAIDs long-term develop a peptic ulcer, which is a sore in the lining of the stomach, lower esophagus, or small intestine.15 The risk of bleeding ulcers doubles if you take aspirin with other NSAIDs.

5. Leaky Gut

NSAIDS not only cause leaky gut, they can be one of the greatest barriers to recovering from it because they increase your intestinal permeability, which means they make leaky gut worse.16 This means they widen the tight junctions in your gut cell wall that allow food particles and other toxins to enter your bloodstream. One study showed that even one 600 mg dose of aspirin was enough to increase intestinal permeability.17 Research on animals also shows that NSAIDs not only compromise your gut lining structurally, they also may cause gluten sensitivity.18

6. Acute Colitis and Autoimmune Disease

NSAIDs may also set off a chain reaction that leads to conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.19,20 NSAIDs are associated with hospitalizations for severe colitis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and relapses of IBD.21 This is due to the inflammation that they cause, as well as the leaky gut, which can let through food particles that are so similar to your body’s own cells that your immune system attacks your body.

The Functional Medicine Approach to Fighting Inflammation

It’s clear that NSAIDs should be avoided whenever possible for all those reasons. Here’s what I propose instead: reduce your inflammation by getting to the root cause and repairing your leaky gut, rather than simply masking the symptoms. I took this approach with thousands of patients in my functional medicine clinic and helped them return to optimal health, without relying on harsh medications. The four pillars of The Myers Way® will help you address the root cause of your inflammation.

Pillar One: Heal Your Gut



Remove the bad including toxic and inflammatory foods and gut infections such as Candida overgrowth and SIBO.Replace what’s missing including digestive enzymes and stomach acid.Reinoculate your gut with high potency probiotics. Certain probiotics, including Lactobacillus casei,22 have been seen to support a healthy stomach lining. Repair your gut with healing foods such as bone broth or supplements like my Leaky Gut Revive®.



Pillar II: Get rid of gluten, grains, and legumes

I recommend that all of my patients remove gluten from their diets because it’s so inflammatory. I highly recommend removing all grains and legumes from your diet as well. Instead, enjoy a diet rich in grass-fed meats and wild-caught fish, as well as fresh, organic fruits and vegetables to support your gut and optimal health.

Pillar III: Tame the toxins

Reduce your exposure to other toxins. You may know to avoid pesticides, heavy metals, and toxic mold but you may not be aware that body care and cleaning products can also be dangerous. I cover this topic in much greater detail in The Autoimmune Solution.

Pillar IV: Heal your infections and relieve your stress

It’s very likely that you’ve been exposed at some point to the Epstein-Barr or herpes simplex viruses, which remain in your system and can cause problems many years down the road. I’ve found the most effective strategy is to support your immune system with The Myers Way® and prioritize stress reduction.

Take Natural Supplements, not NSAIDs

While you are addressing the root cause of your inflammation with The Myers Way® or any time your inflammatory system needs additional support, you can turn to natural substances that will support, rather than harm, your gut.

Liposomal Curcumin

Curcumin is the active compound in turmeric. Research suggests that curcumin can help promote a healthy inflammatory response. It can be useful in supporting your body in a wide range of oxidative and inflammatory conditions, including metabolic syndrome, arthritis, anxiety, and hyperlipidemia, which is an abnormally high concentration of fats in your blood.23 

My Liposomal curcumin is my #1 supplement recommendation to help modulate a healthy inflammatory response, and supports normal immune function, intestinal health, and liver function. The liposomal form solves the problem of poor absorption and bioavailability of typical  curcumin supplements by surrounding the curcumin molecule with a thin layer of fat from medium-chain-triglyceride (MTC) oil. This micelle “pocket” creates a liposome that is at least 5.6x more absorbable than most typical curcumin supplements available on the market today.

Omega-3s

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients. The three most important types are alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). They can be found in fish, fish oils, flax seeds, chia seeds, flaxseed oil, and walnuts. Fish oil supports everything from luxurious hair, a healthy mood & cognitive function, to joint comfort, glowing skin, and a healthy heart, and is especially important in supporting your body’s inflammatory response.24 

Supercritical extraction, the method I use, is the very best way to extract fish oil because it ensures that heat, solvents and oxygen are not able to harm the oil. Fish oil is the world’s best and most bioavailable source of Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, which positively promote the production of inflammation-mediating proteins for a healthy inflammation response. 

My Complete Omega-3 Softgels contain 67% more DHA than my previous Omega-3 formula, and far exceeds international standards of purity. It supports healthy vision, mood and cognitive function, and is 170% more bioavailable than leading fish oil supplements.

To recap, NSAIDs have a wide range of side-effects that can harm your gut, particularly over the long term. They don’t even address the root cause of your inflammation, and can promote leaky gut, peptic ulcers and bleeding, digestive discomfort, heartburn and GERD, and autoimmune disease, as well as damage your microbiome. There are many natural ways to address inflammation, including healing your gut and introducing nutrients that support a healthy inflammation response, such as my Omega-3 softgels and liposomal curcumin.

The post 6 Reasons NSAIDs Are Harmful To Your Gut appeared first on Amy Myers MD.

Valentine’s Day Chocolate Truffles

These decadent Chocolate Truffles are the perfect, easy, no-bake treat that’s sure to impress that special someone without spending hours in the kitchen. Made with wholesome, clean ingredients, these homemade chocolate truffles are Paleo and vegan. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day or the first day of spring, these are an excellent treat for any special occasion!

Can Chocolate Truffles Be Healthy?

While these chocolate truffles don’t take the place of nutrient-dense vegetables and proteins, they are a fun treat for special occasions (I’m thinking Valentine’s Day — how about you?) It’s important to have healthier alternatives for desserts and treats for any occasion so that you don’t feel deprived. Here are some of the healthier swaps in this homemade chocolate truffle recipe:

Dried Figs

Figs, fresh or dried, are a great source of vitamins and minerals. They’re rich in antioxidants such as manganese and Vitamin A. They also contain choline, folate, calcium, and potassium. Dried figs give these truffles a delicious texture and natural sweetness similar to dates. In fact, you could use dates in this recipe if dried figs aren’t readily available.

Cocoa Powder

Cocoa powder is a rich source of flavonoids and antioxidants including the aforementioned manganese. Cocoa powder also contains iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and even fiber. All of these are essential nutrients which both men and women require for optimal health. However, women are more likely to be deficient in calcium and magnesium, so cocoa powder can help you meet the daily recommended value of these nutrients.

Coconut Cream

Coconut cream provides your body with fat and easy-to-digest medium chain triglycerides. This is a type of saturated fat that is more quickly absorbed by the body and used for body functions. In this particular recipe, coconut cream not only makes these truffles satisfying and healthy, it also provides a rich and creamy texture to your filling.

How to Make Chocolate Truffles at Home

These no-bake chocolate truffles couldn’t be easier to make. The truffles themselves are just three ingredients, and the optional chocolate coating and toppings only use a few more ingredients. I highly recommend you don’t miss out on the optional additions — they’re delicious AND pretty! 

To make the truffles, you’ll need dried figs, cocoa powder, and coconut cream. You can use canned coconut cream or the solidified part of a chilled can of coconut milk. With either option, you want the cream to be slightly solid for structure.

Remove the stems of the figs and add them to your food processor along with your cocoa powder and coconut cream. Process until the mixture is smooth and has formed a ball. Using a spatula, remove the dough-like mixture from the food processor and place it in a bowl. 

Using a teaspoon, measure out rounded balls of the truffle dough and place on a parchment paper lined baking sheet or plate. Dip your fingers in water to remove any sticky dough that may have transferred to your fingers from the teaspoon. Don’t shape your truffles just yet.

Freeze, uncovered, for about 5 minutes, then roll into balls. Place back in the freezer while you make the coating.

To make the coating, melt your chocolate chips and coconut oil together until the mixture is smooth and combined. You can use your fingers to roll truffles in the mixture, or a toothpick or fork inserted in each truffle for less mess. Place back on the parchment paper and allow to set for about a minute.

Roll or sprinkle your truffles with cocoa powder, shaved chocolate, coconut shreds, or sea salt!

Valentine’s Day Chocolate Truffles






Course

Dessert


Protocol

Autoimmune Solution (AIP), Elimination Diet, Paleo, Thyroid Connection




Servings

24 truffles

Ingredients

Chocolate Truffles1 1/2 cup dried figs about 17-18 whole, dried figs6 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder1/4 cup coconut creamChocolate Coating1/2 cup sugar-free, dairy-free chocolate chips1 Tbsp coconut oilOptional Toppings unsweetened cocoa powder shaved chocolate shredded coconut flaked sea salt

Servings:
truffles

Units:
MetricUS Imperial

Instructions

Remove the stems from the figs, and place them in a food processor, along with cocoa powder and coconut cream. Process until the mixture is completely smooth and has formed a ball. Remove from the food processor with a spatula, and place into a medium bowl. Store in the refrigerator for 5 minutes.Remove truffle dough from the refrigerator. Scoop rounded teaspoons of the truffle mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper. Do not roll into balls yet. Tip: keep a small bowl of warm water next to you, and dip your fingers in the water to remove truffle mixture from your fingers. This process can be messy and the water helps keep things moving.Carefully slide the parchment paper onto a plate or baking sheet, and place in the freezer for about 5 minutes. Remove from the freezer and roll into truffle balls. When all the truffles have been formed into spheres, place them back in the freezer while you prepare the coating.Chocolate CoatingIn a small saucepan, combine the sugar-free chocolate chips and coconut oil. Melt slowly over low heat, stirring continuously until smooth and well-combined.Remove truffles from the freezer. Using toothpicks, skewers, or a fork, pierce 1 truffle at a time and dip the truffle into the chocolate coating mixture. Twirl the toothpick around to completely coat the truffle. Carefully slide the truffle off the toothpick onto a piece of parchment paper or wire cooling rack. Before the chocolate coating dries, sprinkle with optional toppings such as shredded coconut, chocolate shavings, or flakey sea salt.Allow the chocolate coating to cool and solidify completely before serving.

These decadent Chocolate Truffles are the perfect, easy, no-bake treat that’s sure to impress that special someone without spending hours in the kitchen. Made with wholesome, clean ingredients, these homemade chocolate truffles are Paleo and vegan. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day or the first day of spring, these are an excellent treat for any special occasion!

Can Chocolate Truffles Be Healthy?

While these chocolate truffles don’t take the place of nutrient-dense vegetables and proteins, they are a fun treat for special occasions (I’m thinking Valentine’s Day — how about you?) It’s important to have healthier alternatives for desserts and treats for any occasion so that you don’t feel deprived. Here are some of the healthier swaps in this homemade chocolate truffle recipe:

Dried Figs

Figs, fresh or dried, are a great source of vitamins and minerals. They’re rich in antioxidants such as manganese and Vitamin A. They also contain choline, folate, calcium, and potassium. Dried figs give these truffles a delicious texture and natural sweetness similar to dates. In fact, you could use dates in this recipe if dried figs aren’t readily available.

Cocoa Powder

Cocoa powder is a rich source of flavonoids and antioxidants including the aforementioned manganese. Cocoa powder also contains iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and even fiber. All of these are essential nutrients which both men and women require for optimal health. However, women are more likely to be deficient in calcium and magnesium, so cocoa powder can help you meet the daily recommended value of these nutrients.

Coconut Cream

Coconut cream provides your body with fat and easy-to-digest medium chain triglycerides. This is a type of saturated fat that is more quickly absorbed by the body and used for body functions. In this particular recipe, coconut cream not only makes these truffles satisfying and healthy, it also provides a rich and creamy texture to your filling.

How to Make Chocolate Truffles at Home

These no-bake chocolate truffles couldn’t be easier to make. The truffles themselves are just three ingredients, and the optional chocolate coating and toppings only use a few more ingredients. I highly recommend you don’t miss out on the optional additions — they’re delicious AND pretty! 

To make the truffles, you’ll need dried figs, cocoa powder, and coconut cream. You can use canned coconut cream or the solidified part of a chilled can of coconut milk. With either option, you want the cream to be slightly solid for structure.

Remove the stems of the figs and add them to your food processor along with your cocoa powder and coconut cream. Process until the mixture is smooth and has formed a ball. Using a spatula, remove the dough-like mixture from the food processor and place it in a bowl. 

Using a teaspoon, measure out rounded balls of the truffle dough and place on a parchment paper lined baking sheet or plate. Dip your fingers in water to remove any sticky dough that may have transferred to your fingers from the teaspoon. Don’t shape your truffles just yet.

Freeze, uncovered, for about 5 minutes, then roll into balls. Place back in the freezer while you make the coating.

To make the coating, melt your chocolate chips and coconut oil together until the mixture is smooth and combined. You can use your fingers to roll truffles in the mixture, or a toothpick or fork inserted in each truffle for less mess. Place back on the parchment paper and allow to set for about a minute.

Roll or sprinkle your truffles with cocoa powder, shaved chocolate, coconut shreds, or sea salt!

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"1 1/2 cup dried figs", "6 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder", "1/4 cup coconut cream", "1/2 cup sugar-free, dairy-free chocolate chips", "1 Tbsp coconut oil", " unsweetened cocoa powder", " shaved chocolate", " shredded coconut", " flaked sea salt" ],
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Remove the stems from the figs, and place them in a food processor, along with cocoa powder and coconut cream. Process until the mixture is completely smooth and has formed a ball. Remove from the food processor with a spatula, and place into a medium bowl. Store in the refrigerator for 5 minutes.Remove truffle dough from the refrigerator. Scoop rounded teaspoons of the truffle mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper. Do not roll into balls yet. Tip: keep a small bowl of warm water next to you, and dip your fingers in the water to remove truffle mixture from your fingers. This process can be messy and the water helps keep things moving.Carefully slide the parchment paper onto a plate or baking sheet, and place in the freezer for about 5 minutes. Remove from the freezer and roll into truffle balls. When all the truffles have been formed into spheres, place them back in the freezer while you prepare the coating.Chocolate CoatingIn a small saucepan, combine the sugar-free chocolate chips and coconut oil. Melt slowly over low heat, stirring continuously until smooth and well-combined.Remove truffles from the freezer. Using toothpicks, skewers, or a fork, pierce 1 truffle at a time and dip the truffle into the chocolate coating mixture. Twirl the toothpick around to completely coat the truffle. Carefully slide the truffle off the toothpick onto a piece of parchment paper or wire cooling rack. Before the chocolate coating dries, sprinkle with optional toppings such as shredded coconut, chocolate shavings, or flakey sea salt.Allow the chocolate coating to cool and solidify completely before serving.
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The 5 Best Supplements for Autoimmune Disease

“Which supplements should I take?” was one of the most common questions asked by my patients with autoimmunity. And since autoimmune diseases are becoming more common all around the globe, it’s an issue of concern everywhere. Today I’ll cover the five supplements that I believe are the best for autoimmune disease.

As I explain in The Autoimmune Solution, if you are dealing with autoimmunity, the source of your condition is a glitch in your immune system. Environmental risk factors such as diet, a leaky gut, toxins, infections, and stress lead your immune system to attack your own tissues.

It could be your thyroid being attacked, or your joints under fire, or symptoms associated with your skin. No matter what particular organ or tissue is attacked, your immune system is doing the firing. By supporting rather than suppressing your immune system, you are able to eliminate symptoms and reverse your condition.

No matter the autoimmune condition these same five key supplements all work to optimize your immune system. When taken together, three of these supplements — glutathione, curcumin, and resveratrol — enhance one another’s effects, making them even more powerful!

You can watch and listen to this Facebook Live that describes the potentiation of these supplements.

To get your immune system in optimal condition, here are my top five supplements for autoimmunity.

1. Glutathione

The role of Glutathione is as your body’s primary detoxifier and it plays a crucial role in helping your immune system fight off infections. While it is concentrated in your liver, glutathione is also in every cell in your body. The three key amino acids in glutathione — cysteine, glycine, and glutamate — help bind free radicals and toxins. Then it can move them safely and effectively out of your system.

Your body produces some level of glutathione naturally. However, a poor diet, exposure to toxins, medications, stress, and illness deplete your levels or stop glutathione synthesis altogether. Glutathione deficiency factors into oxidative stress as well as triggering your body’s inflammatory response.

This can lead to autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.1

Without enough glutathione, your body cannot properly detox. Toxins linger in your bloodstream or get stored in fat. This wreaks havoc on your immune system and sets you up for chronic illness.2

I recommend a glutathione supplement for those with autoimmunity, toxic mold, heavy metal overload, or general toxin exposure. It’s so powerful that I even recommend increasing glutathione levels to anyone who wants to reach peak optimal health. However, I tried a LOT of different types of glutathione, especially when I dealt with mold exposure. It is very challenging to get a form of glutathione that actually works!

Glutathione Sources

Intravenous (IV) glutathione supplementation is the gold standard. Yet it’s expensive and inconvenient. Oral glutathione supplementation is more readily available, however, it’s not commonly found in the liposomal or acetylated form. That means most will break down before your body can use them.

The “liposomal” form of glutathione is in a fat-soluble membrane that helps protect it from breaking down in the gut so it can effectively penetrate your cell walls. However, after working with thousands of patients, I recommend the “acetylated” form over all others. Your body easily absorbs it without breaking it down. Adding an acetyl group makes the glutathione molecule more stable and enhances its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.3

The glutathione I offer is acetylated in nanotechnology, making it even more readily used by your body than other acetylated forms. The acetylation process and microcluster molecular structure ensure that it won’t break down before your body absorbs it so you can enjoy all the health benefits.

2. Curcumin

There’s a lot of hype around curcumin these days. And for good reason! Curcumin comes from a highly concentrated extract of turmeric. It plays a huge role in promoting a healthy inflammatory response, a healthy immune system, and healthy aging.

It can be can support a healthy inflammatory response, without gut-damaging side effects of NSAIDs such as aspirin and ibuprofen. It can positively impact the expression of genes that regulate systemic inflammation, which is a major factor in anyone with autoimmunity.4

Similar to glutathione, even high-grade curcumin supplements are not well absorbed and often metabolized by your liver before being utilized. That’s why I recommend a fat-soluble form of curcumin. Since curcumin naturally dissolves in fat, taking it in a fat-soluble form allows it to remain intact until it can actually be absorbed by your cells.

A micelle formula of liposomal curcumin is the world’s most absorbable form of curcumin. What is a micelle? It’s a fat pocket. My Liposomal Curcumin solves the problem of poor absorption by coating the curcumin with a thin layer of fat from medium-chain-triglyceride (MCT) oil.

Your intestinal lining readily absorbs the micelle “pocket” created by MCT oil which protects it from metabolism by your liver. This way, the potent, 500mg of naturally extracted curcumin per serving can travel freely throughout your body to the cells and tissues that need it the most.

3. Resveratrol

Resveratrol is the potent compound found in red wine. It’s known for its anti-aging benefits and its effect on metabolism.

Research has shown that resveratrol can support your body in slowing the progression of autoimmune disease symptoms.

Resveratrol is a powerful free radical scavenger that neutralizes unstable molecules that can damage your cells. These can trigger a leaky gut or even lead to premature aging.5 Resveratrol also helps modulate your immune system by regulating the activity of a kind of white blood cells called natural killer cells. This helps balance your immune response if your immune system is overactive or suppressed.6

Resveratrol may also benefit heart health, which is essential because people with autoimmunity are more susceptible to heart disease. In fact, one study shows that women aged 35 – 44 who have lupus are 50 times more likely to have a heart attack than other women of similar age.7

Resveratrol helps protect the innermost layer of your arteries called your endothelium, and increases your endothelial production of nitric oxide, supporting balanced blood pressure.

Unfortunately, red wine has sugar, alcohol, sulfites, and histamines. You can get all of the health effects of resveratrol without these by taking a resveratrol supplement.

4. Immune Booster

Your immune system uses proteins called immunoglobulins, or antibodies, to fight off bacteria and viruses. There are four types of immunoglobulins: IgA, IgE, IgG, IgM. They are the first line of defense in your gut, where nearly 80% of your immune system lives.

My autoimmune patients were often low in immunoglobulins. Many of them were surprised to learn this. That’s because they thought that if they have an autoimmune disease then their immune system is TOO strong. That’s why it’s attacking them.

In reality, the opposite is typically true. It’s when your immune system is overstressed that it attacks your own cells. Supporting your immune system, rather than suppressing it, is what’s important. That’s why I recommend my Immune Booster supplement for patients dealing with autoimmunity.

Immune Booster contains whey peptides from supercharged colostrum. Colostrum is a very special kind of milk produced only in the early stage of lactation. It offers concentrated amounts of all four immunoglobulins to support immune function and your body’s normal gut repair pathways. Immune Booster also helps you maintain a healthy inflammatory response in your intestinal tract and colon.

If you have an autoimmune disease, I recommend you take this supplement all the time. However, everyone can benefit from Immune Booster, especially during the winter months. Your immune system tends to be more vulnerable to seasonal illnesses.

5. L-Glutamine

The last supplement I recommend to everyone with autoimmunity is L-Glutamine. L-Glutamine is an amino acid that helps seal the tight junctions in your gut. Your gut cells naturally turn over every 48 hours, which is why it’s possible to repair your gut in 30 days following The Myers Way®. L-Glutamine works by speeding up that process and helping to restore your gut lining if you have a leaky gut.

As I lay out in my book, The Autoimmune Solution, repairing your gut is the first step to overcoming autoimmunity. Remember, nearly 80% of your immune system lives in your gut. Maintaining a healthy gut is key for anyone with an autoimmune condition. It’s why I always say the gut is the gateway to health!

In addition to promoting optimal gut health, L-Glutamine supplements support thyroid and immune system function. It also combats sugar cravings and supports healthy weight maintenance.

Ultimately, when you have an autoimmune disease, your best course of action is to support your immune system and help it do the work that will keep you healthy. There are many supplements available that could provide protection and relief to help you reverse your condition and take back your health. These are the top 5 supplements I recommend for autoimmune disease. These are just a starting point on your journey to health and wellness!

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The Best Foods to Eat for Healthy Skin

We all love to see and feel our skin in the best condition possible — clear, smooth, and radiating health. It’s your largest organ, and it protects your body from the sun, bad weather, infections, toxins, and dehydration. No matter what your skin type, it’s an amazing and beautiful part of your body! 

Despite all the beauty products lining the shelves, your skin needs essential nutrients from food to help restore and rebuild itself. Today you’ll discover how to defend your skin against toxins and nurture it with the best foods for skin health. I’ll share what I taught patients in my clinic about the right foods for healthy skin. I’ll also cover dietary supplements such as Collagen Protein to help you support your skin health from the inside out.

What are the Best Nutrients for Your Skin?

You can promote skin health with nutrients that will help balance blood sugar levels and support a healthy inflammatory response. The right foods can fight oxidation and hydrate your skin. They can also provide nutrients including antioxidants such as beta carotene, tocopherols, and flavonoids. In addition, foods with vitamins, essential fatty acids, proteins, and probiotics are also essential for skin health. 1

This is how these nutrients will help you get glowing skin:

Collagen
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It’s responsible for structure, stability, and strength especially in connective tissues and in the skin.2 There are many different types of collagen, yet types I and III are known to promote hair, skin, and nail strength.

When collagen is digested, it is broken up into amino acids. Your body then uses them to create new proteins and support other body processes.3
CoQ10
This is an antioxidant naturally made by the body that helps fight free radicals. Yet as you age, CoQ10 production decreases,4 making your skin more vulnerable to damage from free radicals. Adding more CoQ10 to your diet can inhibit the deterioration of skin elasticity and reduce visible signs of aging.5
Fatty Acids/Omega-3s
There’s a reason Omega-3 rich fish oil supplements have become so popular — healthy fats are essential to many body processes! Omega-3 fatty acids are known to promote a healthy inflammatory response. This includes inflammation associated with skin health and appearance.6 Omega-3 fatty acids also form the basis of healthy cell membranes.
Probiotics
Your skin is its own microbiome with hundreds of thousands of microorganisms working together in a symbiotic relationship. This relationship preserves the health of your skin by keeping bad bacteria from overgrowing. Probiotics support your microbiome and your immune system in promoting skin health.7
Protein/Amino Acids
Protein and amino acids help build all cells in your body. A lack of them can lead to reduced protein synthesis, collagen density, and collagen production.8 This impacts the proteins needed to produce and maintain strong, healthy skin.
Selenium
When selenium levels in the body are out of balance, it can show on your skin. Your body needs optimal amounts of selenium to support antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione. Increasing levels of these antioxidant proteins with selenium before UV exposure may help protect your skin from UV damage.9
Vitamin A
Also known as retinol, vitamin A is converted into retinoic acid in the body. Retinoic acid can influence cells in layers of the skin10 and regulate skin condition. Vitamin A is also considered an antioxidant that can help protect against sun damage.
Vitamin C
Your skin contains high concentrations of vitamin C. It supports collagen synthesis and antioxidant protection against UV damage.11 Including more vitamin C in your diet will also help stabilize collagen’s cell structure12 to help maintain skin elasticity.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant naturally present in the oil your skin produces to prevent dryness. Vitamin E can help prevent the breakdown of skin cells. Fewer dead skin cells results in healthier-looking skin. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from everyday damage caused by free radicals.13



The 10 Best Foods to Eat for Healthy Skin

You can help maintain clear skin, reduce the risk of cell damage, and support skin elasticity when you eat these foods.

1. Avocados

Because of their vitamin A and C content, avocados are one of the best foods for clear skin. They also contain monounsaturated fatty acids that may reduce oxidative stress and protect from skin sun damage. Avocados may also decrease insulin resistance and related inflammatory processes.14

2. Beef Liver

In terms of skin health, beef liver can support protein production. The large dose of essential amino acids and vitamin A in it also supports a healthy inflammatory response.

3. Blueberries & Strawberries

Blueberries have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and glucose-regulating effects. This means the little fruit can support multiple aspects of healthy aging,15 including healthy skin! And just 100 grams of strawberries contains nearly 60 mg of collagen-supporting vitamin C.16

4. Bone Broth

The collagen in bone broth contributes amino acids to body processes and protein synthesis for stronger skin cell structure. The water content of bone broth is also beneficial for skin health. Despite higher sodium levels, water in bone broth can help your body and your skin stay healthy and hydrated.

5. Chocolate/Cocoa

The flavanols in dark chocolate, cocoa solids, and cocoa powder can help hydrate your skin and improve blood circulation. Healthy circulation draws more oxygen and nutrients to the skin.17 If you can eat chocolate, avoid milk chocolate and white chocolate. These are full of sugar and may lead to high blood sugar levels.

6. Leafy Greens

Fibrous, dark green vegetables such as spinach and kale offer you prebiotics to promote probiotic production and gut health. They also contain vitamins A, C, and E which support skin cell regeneration and lipid metabolism.

7. Olives & Olive Oil

Olives are full of polyunsaturated fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants called polyphenols. Polyphenols from olives and extra-virgin olive oil have potent antioxidant activities.18 This can help fight free radicals associated with skin damage and aging.

8. Poultry

Both chicken and turkey contain tryptophan, which works together with carbohydrates to trigger serotonin and melatonin production in the body.19 Balanced levels of serotonin and melatonin can promote quality beauty sleep for glowing skin.   

Poultry is also full of protein, essential amino acids, and selenium. The protein is broken up into amino acids to support body processes and build more proteins and enzymes. Additionally, the selenium content in poultry is ideal for maintaining optimal levels of this micronutrient.

9. Tree Nuts

After following The Myers Way®, you can reintroduce tree nuts. Which is great for your skin health! Many tree nuts are high in vitamin E and selenium. Diets without these nutrients may result in poor skin health associated with a higher risk of acne.20 If you tolerate them, eating a variety of nuts may even improve metabolic control, insulin sensitivity, and oxidative stress.21 All of these impact the health of your skin.

10. Wild-Caught Salmon

Salmon is a solid source of protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, and CoQ10 — all of which your skin needs. A 3 oz serving of salmon contains about 17g of protein, or ⅓ the daily recommended value for an adult.22 Salmon is also an excellent source of omega-3s with over 1,000 mg per 3 oz serving.23 For those who don’t like fish, Omega-3 supplements are a good alternative.

How to Supplement Your Diet for Amazing Skin

An essential ingredient to supplement these foods for good skin is water — lots of it! When more water is available in your body, it improves skin condition from the inside out.24 For a change of pace from plain water, drink green tea. Caffeine-free green tea has antioxidant qualities that may help protect the skin from UV rays.

Additionally, I’ve found one of the easiest ways to optimize my skin is with collagen protein. The Myers Way® Collagen Protein dissolves instantly in hot or cold water. That means you get the double benefit of hydration and collagen. 

The amino acid concentrations in food sources of collagen are significantly lower than what can be absorbed from collagen supplements.25 My Collagen Protein is custom-formulated to provide your body with optimal amounts of this critical building block. It’s made with pure collagen types I and III for flexibility and strength at the cellular level. It offers a full range of amino acids and peptides to support and optimize the health of your skin.

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How Are Molecular Mimicry and Autoimmune Disease Related?

When your body is working optimally, you barely even have to think about it. In fact, it probably never occurs to you that your body can actually make mistakes. Yet there’s something called molecular mimicry that’s a dangerous case of mistaken identity made by your immune system. A host of health issues — including the autoimmunity that affects up to 753 million people around the globe1 — can ensue when this occurs in your body. 

Molecular mimicry usually has its roots in your gut, which is the home to 70% of your immune system. To understand molecular mimicry, we must first understand leaky gut.

What is Leaky Gut?

Your digestive system breaks down the food you eat to nourish all the cells in your body. Most of this process happens within your gut. Inside your gut there are tiny projections called villi. They look like little fingers covered with hairs called microvilli. 

The villi grab micronutrients floating in your gut that have been broken down from the food you eat. The villi and the microvilli push these micronutrients toward tiny openings in your gut wall directly into your bloodstream. Then your blood carries this nourishment to all the cells in your body.

When you eat an inflammatory diet and are exposed to environmental toxins, infections, and stress, the toxic overload becomes too much for your body. As a result, the tiny openings in your intestinal wall break open in what conventional medicine terms increased intestinal permeability. Microbes, toxins, and undigested food particles that should have been passed out of your body enter your bloodstream through these large openings. Once this happens, you have a leaky gut.

What Causes Leaky Gut Syndrome?

At the top of the list are foods like gluten and dairy products, followed by viruses and environmental triggers. Let’s focus on foods. When gluten is present in your small intestine, the protein gliadin (found in gluten) signals the release of a chemical called zonulin. Zonulin causes the tight junctions of your intestinal wall to open up, resulting in leaky gut. 

Once your gut is leaky, the gluten molecules — and others! — can escape into your bloodstream, where they were never meant to be. Your immune system memorizes the structure of the invading pathogen and develops a defense system to recognize it in the future. This is what it should do.

What is Molecular Mimicry?

Molecular mimicry, as I stated, is a dangerous case of mistaken identity. Essentially, your immune system takes aim at the wrong target — your own tissues — because it confuses your cells with the molecular structure of an “invader.” 

You actually have two parts of your immune system: the innate and the adaptive. Innate immunity is programmed in our genetic material. This part of the system naturally activates your white blood cells to go to the site of a cut, for example. 

The adaptive immune system complements the innate system. The adaptive system learns and can mobilize your entire immune system. It springs into action against such things as the common cold, the influenza virus, and other viral infections. Both parts of the immune system can stimulate the lymph nodes.

However, in molecular mimicry, T cells and B cells made in your bone marrow as part of your adaptive immune system, go rogue and attack cells similar to the invaders.2 And, as I mentioned before, one of the most common triggers is the foods we eat. There’s a very strong correlation between the consumption of gluten and milk products in molecular mimicry. This occurs because the protein structure of gluten and dairy are similar to those of your body’s own cells, particularly those of your thyroid gland.3

As your gut remains leaky and more and more particles escape into your bloodstream, your immune system sends out wave after wave of inflammation. This inflammation can land you on what I call the autoimmune spectrum. 

At the low end of the autoimmune spectrum are those of you who are only moderately inflamed with symptoms that come and go such as occasional acne or digestive issues. At the middle of the spectrum are those who experience chronic symptoms which might include joint pain, obesity, allergies, muscle aches, and fatigue. At the far end of the spectrum are those who have been diagnosed with a full-blown autoimmune disease such as lupus, Hashimoto’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or multiple sclerosis.

How to Support Your Body and Reverse Autoimmune Disease

We often think of the word “disease” as something that’s happening to you. Yet with an autoimmune disease, the reality is that it’s most likely something we have caused through diet and lifestyle choices. The good news is that also means we can act to reverse it and my free training will show you how. 

In the free training, I talk extensively about The Myers Way®.  I created The Myers Way® to help people just like you (and me!) work their way back down the autoimmune spectrum. I have used this approach successfully with thousands of patients in my clinic. I’ve also shared this information with people around the world.

When it comes to molecular mimicry, the first pillar — heal your gut — is the key. This pillar incorporates my 4R approach to healing your gut. The 4Rs are:

Remove. Aside from removing gluten and dairy from your diet, you’ll also want to eliminate toxic and inflammatory foods as well as gut infections and any other factors that negatively affect the gut including food allergies.Replace. Replace the good that’s gone missing, such as adding back digestive enzymes required for proper digestion and HCL for optimal pH balance and mineral absorption.Reinoculate. Restore a healthy balance of good bacteria with a high-quality, multi-strain, high-potency probiotic supplement.Repair. Provide the nutrients necessary to help restore your gut lining. My most comprehensive weapon against leaky gut is Leaky Gut Revive® which repairs damaged cells and helps build new intestinal tissue.

Conventional doctors would say you must learn to live with your symptoms and the negative side effects of conventional medicine. However, as I saw in my clinic thousands of times, there are alternative solutions that work! You can make lifestyle changes that will enable you to take back control of your health. My free training is the ideal place to begin your journey to optimal health.

The post How Are Molecular Mimicry and Autoimmune Disease Related? appeared first on Amy Myers MD.

Game Day Paleo Nachos

The big game needs a big plate of your favorite game-day foods. And while there’s nothing wrong with a plate of baked chicken wings, sometimes you crave the crunch of a chip topped with all the fixings. I’m talking about nachos! These Game Day Paleo Nachos are perfect for celebrating the home team (or any team!) This recipe uses whole food ingredients for a dairy-free, AIP-compliant snack. You can use Siete tortilla chips or swap in some plantain chips for a crunchy, savory appetizer and snack that everyone will enjoy.

How Can Nachos Be Paleo?

These nachos use real food ingredients including organic, grass-fed ground beef and fresh avocado. All of the ingredients are compliant with Paleo and Autoimmune-Paleo diets. They are grain-free, dairy-free, legume-free, and packed with amazing nutrients. Everything that regular nachos aren’t.

Despite their differences, don’t be deceived by their healthier ingredients. Game Day Paleo Nachos are absolutely delicious. While the nacho sauce may not taste the same as it’s nasty, inflammatory namesake, it will become a family favorite all on its own.

So How Are Game Day Paleo Nachos Healthy?

Game Day Paleo Nachos can actually be a part of a healthy diet. Not only are these nachos made without processed ingredients, they also contain essential vitamins and minerals to help power you through the day. Here are some of the healthy ingredients in this appetizer:

Siete Tortilla Chips/Plantain Chips

The Siete brand makes Paleo tortilla chips from cassava flour, chia seeds, and seasoning. I highly recommend using these if you can tolerate chia seeds, especially if you’re feeding a crowd, as they are sure to make your plate more of nacho experience.

However, if you’re in the strict elimination phase of AIP or you can’t tolerate chia seeds, then I recommend using plantain chips. These chips are so yummy and you can make them at home if you’re concerned about processed oils. The crunchier the plantain chip, the better. Just like their sweet cousin the banana, plantain chips are full of nutrients including potassium, magnesium, vitamin C, and fiber.

Ground Beef

Ground beef provides this big plate of food with a healthy amount of protein while providing you with a range of B vitamins, iron, and even some omega-3 fatty acids. These are all essential to your health, and nobody would even know that’s on your mind with these delicious nachos.

Avocados

Avocados are the main ingredient in the avocado crema for these nachos. I love avocados on their own because they keep me full and they’re full of beneficial nutrients. This AIP-compliant fruit is loaded with healthy monounsaturated fats, magnesium, potassium, and folate. Not to mention, avocados are known to support healthy digestion.

Coconut Milk

This is one of the ingredients that will be used to make your nacho “cheese.” This luscious milk contains omega-3s and promotes healthy digestion while making your sauce extra creamy. Together, coconut milk and sweet potatoes create the perfect, AIP and Paleo, nacho “cheese,” as well as a host of amazing nutrients.

Cilantro

I know that this herb is still up for debate, yet cilantro is an amazing way to support your body’s detoxification process. Cilantro also provides a distinct, traditional Mexican flavor. This herb contains several B vitamins, Vitamins A, C, E, and K, and minerals like calcium and potassium.

How to Make Paleo Nachos

All of the elements for these Game-Day Paleo Nachos are easy to make and even easier to assemble.

Melt a tablespoon of your oil of choice in a skillet over medium heat, then add your ground beef and cook until browned. Your beef should be fully cooked through and broken into small pieces. Add your taco seasoning and salt and set aside.

To make your avocado crema by combining your avocados, red onion, fresh cilantro, coconut cream, salt, and lime juice in a blender. Puree until well combined. Pour into a jar, and store covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve your nachos.

Now, it’s time to make your nacho sauce — combine all ingredients for the nacho sauce in a blender and blend until smooth. Make sure your coconut cream is fully combined with the other ingredients before using your nacho sauce.

When it’s time to assemble your nachos, you’ll start by arranging your chips in a single layer on a large platter. Layer the ground beef over the chips, followed by the avocado crema, and then the nacho sauce. Finish off your nachos by garnishing with toppings of your choice, such as cilantro, red onion, and black olives.

These nachos are best served immediately. I do not recommend storing or reheating them because the texture will not be the same. However, because they’re so easy to make, if you find you want a plate of nachos after the big game, you can throw these paleo nachos together for any weeknight gathering!

Game Day Paleo Nachos






Course

Appetizer, Main Dish, Snack


Protocol

Autoimmune Solution (AIP), Elimination Diet, Paleo, Thyroid Connection








Ingredients

2 cups Siete brand tortilla chips or plantain chips for strict AIP1 lb 100% grass-fed, pasture-raised ground beef1 Tbsp avocado or coconut oil2 1/2 Tbsp taco seasoning (see AIP recipe below)1 tsp saltAvocado Crema1 large avocado peeled, seed removed, and diced1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped2 Tbsp red onion chopped1/3 cup coconut cream juice of 1 lime salt to tasteNacho Sauce3/4 cup coconut milk1/2 cup sweet potato steamed juice of 1/4 lime1/4 tsp sea saltToppings2 Tbsp fresh cilantro chopped2 Tbsp red onion chopped black olives slicedAIP Taco Seasoning1/2 Tbsp horseradish powder1 tsp ground cumin1 tsp ground garlic1/2 tsp oregano1/2 tsp onion powder1/4 tsp salt1/4 tsp black pepper

Servings:

Units:
MetricUS Imperial

Instructions

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil, and brown your ground beef until fully cooked through and broken into small pieces. Add the taco seasoning and 1 teaspoon of salt to the skillet and stir into your ground beef mixture. Set aside.Combine in a bowl all the ingredients for the guacamole, and mash together. Set aside.In a blender, add all the nacho sauce ingredients, and blend until the mixture is completely smooth. Set aside.Now it’s time to assemble your nachos. Spread your chips in a single layer on a serving platter. Sprinkle the ground beef mixture on top of your chips, then spoon dollops of avocado crema on top, and drizzle with the nacho sauce. Garnish with toppings of choice, such as fresh cilantro, red onion, and black olives. Serve immediately.

The big game needs a big plate of your favorite game-day foods. And while there’s nothing wrong with a plate of baked chicken wings, sometimes you crave the crunch of a chip topped with all the fixings. I’m talking about nachos! These Game Day Paleo Nachos are perfect for celebrating the home team (or any team!) This recipe uses whole food ingredients for a dairy-free, AIP-compliant snack. You can use Siete tortilla chips or swap in some plantain chips for a crunchy, savory appetizer and snack that everyone will enjoy.

How Can Nachos Be Paleo?

These nachos use real food ingredients including organic, grass-fed ground beef and fresh avocado. All of the ingredients are compliant with Paleo and Autoimmune-Paleo diets. They are grain-free, dairy-free, legume-free, and packed with amazing nutrients. Everything that regular nachos aren’t.

Despite their differences, don’t be deceived by their healthier ingredients. Game Day Paleo Nachos are absolutely delicious. While the nacho sauce may not taste the same as it’s nasty, inflammatory namesake, it will become a family favorite all on its own.

So How Are Game Day Paleo Nachos Healthy?

Game Day Paleo Nachos can actually be a part of a healthy diet. Not only are these nachos made without processed ingredients, they also contain essential vitamins and minerals to help power you through the day. Here are some of the healthy ingredients in this appetizer:

Siete Tortilla Chips/Plantain Chips

The Siete brand makes Paleo tortilla chips from cassava flour, chia seeds, and seasoning. I highly recommend using these if you can tolerate chia seeds, especially if you’re feeding a crowd, as they are sure to make your plate more of nacho experience.

However, if you’re in the strict elimination phase of AIP or you can’t tolerate chia seeds, then I recommend using plantain chips. These chips are so yummy and you can make them at home if you’re concerned about processed oils. The crunchier the plantain chip, the better. Just like their sweet cousin the banana, plantain chips are full of nutrients including potassium, magnesium, vitamin C, and fiber.

Ground Beef

Ground beef provides this big plate of food with a healthy amount of protein while providing you with a range of B vitamins, iron, and even some omega-3 fatty acids. These are all essential to your health, and nobody would even know that’s on your mind with these delicious nachos.

Avocados

Avocados are the main ingredient in the avocado crema for these nachos. I love avocados on their own because they keep me full and they’re full of beneficial nutrients. This AIP-compliant fruit is loaded with healthy monounsaturated fats, magnesium, potassium, and folate. Not to mention, avocados are known to support healthy digestion.

Coconut Milk

This is one of the ingredients that will be used to make your nacho “cheese.” This luscious milk contains omega-3s and promotes healthy digestion while making your sauce extra creamy. Together, coconut milk and sweet potatoes create the perfect, AIP and Paleo, nacho “cheese,” as well as a host of amazing nutrients.

Cilantro

I know that this herb is still up for debate, yet cilantro is an amazing way to support your body’s detoxification process. Cilantro also provides a distinct, traditional Mexican flavor. This herb contains several B vitamins, Vitamins A, C, E, and K, and minerals like calcium and potassium.

How to Make Paleo Nachos

All of the elements for these Game-Day Paleo Nachos are easy to make and even easier to assemble.

Melt a tablespoon of your oil of choice in a skillet over medium heat, then add your ground beef and cook until browned. Your beef should be fully cooked through and broken into small pieces. Add your taco seasoning and salt and set aside.

To make your avocado crema by combining your avocados, red onion, fresh cilantro, coconut cream, salt, and lime juice in a blender. Puree until well combined. Pour into a jar, and store covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve your nachos.

Now, it’s time to make your nacho sauce — combine all ingredients for the nacho sauce in a blender and blend until smooth. Make sure your coconut cream is fully combined with the other ingredients before using your nacho sauce.

When it's time to assemble your nachos, you'll start by arranging your chips in a single layer on a large platter. Layer the ground beef over the chips, followed by the avocado crema, and then the nacho sauce. Finish off your nachos by garnishing with toppings of your choice, such as cilantro, red onion, and black olives.

These nachos are best served immediately. I do not recommend storing or reheating them because the texture will not be the same. However, because they’re so easy to make, if you find you want a plate of nachos after the big game, you can throw these paleo nachos together for any weeknight gathering!

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"recipeIngredient": [
"2 cups Siete brand tortilla chips", "1 lb 100% grass-fed, pasture-raised ground beef", "1 Tbsp avocado or coconut oil", "2 1/2 Tbsp taco seasoning", "1 tsp salt", "1 large avocado", "1/4 cup fresh cilantro", "2 Tbsp red onion", "1/3 cup coconut cream", " juice of 1 lime", " salt", "3/4 cup coconut milk", "1/2 cup sweet potato", " juice of 1/4 lime", "1/4 tsp sea salt", "2 Tbsp fresh cilantro", "2 Tbsp red onion", " black olives", "1/2 Tbsp horseradish powder", "1 tsp ground cumin", "1 tsp ground garlic", "1/2 tsp oregano", "1/2 tsp onion powder", "1/4 tsp salt", "1/4 tsp black pepper" ],
"name": "Game Day Paleo Nachos",
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In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil, and brown your ground beef until fully cooked through and broken into small pieces. Add the taco seasoning and 1 teaspoon of salt to the skillet and stir into your ground beef mixture. Set aside.Combine in a bowl all the ingredients for the guacamole, and mash together. Set aside.In a blender, add all the nacho sauce ingredients, and blend until the mixture is completely smooth. Set aside.Now it’s time to assemble your nachos. Spread your chips in a single layer on a serving platter. Sprinkle the ground beef mixture on top of your chips, then spoon dollops of avocado crema on top, and drizzle with the nacho sauce. Garnish with toppings of choice, such as fresh cilantro, red onion, and black olives. Serve immediately.
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