by Leslie Moldenauer | | Body
Did you used to be able to eat anything without giving it a second thought?
Do you frequently get bloated after you eat?
Do you have frequent intestinal gas?
Do you avoid certain foods?
If these things sound familiar to you, you are not alone. The good thing is that you do not have to suffer. Right now your digestive tract is not functioning at optimal levels. As we get older, we do not produce as many digestive enzymes that we once did. Think about this…have you ever sat down with your kids to have spaghetti? pizza?, anything with a high carbohydrate load only to go into what I jokingly call a “food coma” while your child is playing…or bouncing of the walls with no ill effect? Their digestive system is functioning optimally….yours, not so much.
Click image to enlarge
Lets take a minute to talk about digestive enzymes. To absorb nutrients into your bloodstream you have to break these large molecules down into smaller pieces. While you are eating, digestive enzymes are entering your small intestine from the liver, gall bladder and pancreas to break down your food. Digestive enzymes are essentially proteins:
Amylases -to break down carbohydrates
Lipases- to break down fat
Proteases- to break down protein
Due to many different reasons, these enzymes can become depleted. An unbalanced diet, eating too fast (remember digestion starts in the mouth), and yes aging …all depletes enzyme secretion. Once you can not digest your food properly you run into issues such as: bloating, indigestion and other digestive issues.
Taking an enzyme supplement is like hiring help for your digestive crew. Digestion will happen more quickly, more easily, and with less “work.”
As with any other supplement, all are not created equal. I have used two different kinds in the last few years. Both work equally well, and have been a life saver with many a meal. Here are the two I recommend:
Enzymes by Dr. Mercola’s
Enzymes by Standard Process
To your digestion =)
Please note that I am not a medical practitioner. The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. By using this website, you assume full responsibility and liability for your own actions.
by Leslie Moldenauer | | Body
For many people, hearing the word probiotics makes them think of yogurt..and that is all they know about it. The word “probiotic” is a compound of two Greek words: “pro” signifying promotion and “biotic”, which means life. The definition affirms life and health. What are probiotics and why are they so crucial to our health?
An estimated 100 trillion microorganisms representing more than 500 different species inhabit every normal, healthy bowel. If you keep these gut flora bacteria’s in check and in good balance, there is a great benefit to many aspects of health.
Some of which are:
- Aid in digestion
- Improve synthesis of B vitamins (many B vitamins are produced in the gut)
- Improve calcium absorption
- Keep the healthy balance of intestinal microflora
- Allergies-A recent study revealed a relationship between woman taking probiotics during pregnancy and a 30% reduction in eczema and allergies of their babies.
- Can shield your colon against cancer
- Treating childhood diarrhea and diarrhea caused by C. difficile bacteria (a superbug)
- Treating colitis, irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease
- A study published in 2010 suggests that probiotics may lower the risk of common childhood illnesses such as ear infections, strep throat, and colds.
- In 2006, Stanford University researchers found that obese people had different gut bacteria than normal-weighted people — a first indication that gut flora plays a role in overall weight.
- Supports your immune system (over 80% of your immune system lies in your gut!!!!)
All disease begins in your gut.-Hippocrates
So what reduces the good healthy bacteria in your gut?
Here are a few:
- Taking Antibiotics. (Keep in mind this includes antibiotic residue from industrial farming, i.e. fowl, livestock and milk BUY ORGANIC) It takes over one year to build up the balance of bacteria from just one round of antibiotics.
- Having a body that is too acidic. Normal acidity (i.e. safe for bacteria) for stools is within the 6 to 7.2 pH range.
- Diarrhea. Acute intestinal infection, food poisoning, laxatives, medical intervention (cleansing for a colonoscopy for example), and other conditions may cause prolonged diarrhea, which will literally wash out all of the bacteria from your gut.
- SUGAR! Eating sugar actually nourishes the bad or pathogenic bacteria yeast and fungi in your gut.
- Heavy metals. Mercury, lead, arsenic, cadmium, nickel and silver are toxic, even in trace amounts. Children are the most vulnerable. Sources vary from industrial pollutants, household chemicals, and even food and water. Mercury from dental amalgams. These fillings are a potent poison, neurotoxin and carcinogen; one that can destroy your CNS and kill off friendly bacteria.
- Chemotherapy and radiation is a one two punch for your health and the health of your intestinal flora. They kill bacteria just as they kill cancer cells. They are non-specific.
So now you can see the many things that alter your intestinal health. Restoring your flora may be one of the MOST beneficial things that you can do to restore and maintain health…..But how do you restore it and maintain it?
…Supplemental probiotics are the most accessible, inexpensive, and easiest form of oral bacterial therapy. You can take these supplements continuously, periodically, or on an as-needed basis. (I take them continuously)
…I am no expert on fermenting vegetables but I found a few great articles to help you out!
How to Easily and Inexpensively Ferment your own Vegetables
How to Ferment Vegetables: The Basic Culturing Process
Fermented Food for Beginners: Lacto-Fermented Vegetables
Not all probiotics supplements are alike!
There are a number of products on the market. Here are a few that I have used and seen results with.
Probiotics for children
Probiotics for adults
If you need something stronger, for example if you have leaky gut of colitis
It is important to note** Do not fall prey to the “myth” that yogurt is an effective way to get your probiotics. The fact of the matter is most commercial yogurts are not a good source of probiotics as they have been heat pasteurized, so much of the “live bacteria” benefits are greatly reduced. Some yogurts, particularly the ones that are frozen, no longer contain any live bacteria at all.
Health starts in your gut!
Please note that I am not a medical practitioner. The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. By using this website, you assume full responsibility and liability for your own actions.
by Leslie Moldenauer | | Body
Do you suffer from painful menstrual cramping? How about mood swings, bloating, constipation or diarrhea during your moon cycle? Then it is time to turn to herbal remedies, essential oils, homeopathics and other practical advice. I will provide you with instructions and background information for some of these herbs, and essential oils where appropriate. Monthly Menses Getting you down?…..Suffer no more!
Emmenagogue herbs send good vibrations to the female reproductive system. They help to normalize menstruation. These herbs do not need to be feared, they are very helpful to ‘get things flowing’ and restore homeostasis. There are herbs that are considered mild, moderate, and strong emmenagogues, therefore please be aware that if you do have a weak constitution as in a high-risk pregnancy, these herbs should be avoided or used with extreme caution for your safety [1].
**Important to note
There is no hard evidence that “external use” of essential oils have the ability to be abortifacients (abortion-causing). Some feel that since some essential oils have been termed emmenagogues they are dangerous during pregnancy. There is no conclusive evidence that they have abortifacient properties in the amounts used in aromatherapy, this recommendation was born out of an abundance of caution [2]. (If you are considered high-risk due to previous pregnancy loss, then my recommendations are more strict in this regard while pregnant)
There are a few herbs that you may find very helpful to you. The first is Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis). Evening Primrose is an emmenagogue herb and can be used for breast tenderness and PMS, which can include:
- Acne
- Swollen or tender breasts
- Feeling tired
- Trouble sleeping
- Upset stomach, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea
- A headache or a backache
- Appetite changes or food cravings
- Joint or muscle pain
- Troubles with concentration or memory
- Tension, irritability, mood swings, or crying spells
- Anxiety or depression
(Source)
PMS symptoms can vary from woman to woman. I recommend a tincture of Evening Primrose ten days prior to your menses starting if PMS is a problem for you. A tincture can be used up to 3 times a day ½-1-t at a time. You can also rub primrose carrier oil directly into your breasts if you suffer from breast tenderness during the hormonal fluctuations of your moon cycle.
*As I am not aware of your medical history, please do additional research to make sure that this herb/oil is suitable for your use.
Stock photo Evening Primrose Oenothera biennis
Tincture of Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis)
1-oz whole, fresh Oenothera biennis herb collected just before flowering
1-pt alcohol (High-quality alcohol-Everclear is ideal)
Chop and pound the herb. Mix with half of the alcohol and stir thoroughly. Add the remainder of the alcohol and pour into a jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Leave to stand for 8-14 days in a warm place. Shake the tincture twice daily. Filter through muslin or filter paper. Bottle and store in a dark-colored tightly capped bottle. Ideally, store out of direct sunshine and heat.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is especially helpful for painful menses. Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca is an anti-spasmodic and may help to regulate menses. These two pieces mix very well together.
*Research these ideas for yourself
I would recommend this blend to sufferers of menstrual cramping:
Menstrual Cramp Herbal Blend
1-part Motherwort (Leonurus cardiac)
1-part Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
½-part Blue cohosh (Caulophyllum tholictroides) root cut
½-part Ginger (Zingiber officinale) root cut
Mix the herbs and store in an airtight container in a dark cool place. To prepare an infusion use 1-cup of boiling water to every 1-t of the herbal blend. Cover and steep for at least 10 minutes. Strain and sweeten if needed with raw honey or natural stevia. Use 4-t as often as needed [3].
Stock photo Evening Primrose Oenothera biennis
Essential Oil Blend
Monthly Menses Belly Rub (2% dilution)
Clary sage (Salvia sclarea) 6 drops
Sweet marjoram (Origanum majorana) 6 drops
Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) 2 drops
Carrier oil of your choice 1 ounce
Blend rub into your belly and apply a nice warming pack for relief and comfort.
That is Not All!
There are a few other things that can be done to make our moon cycle much more comfortable:
- 7-10 days prior to menstruation, increase your intake of calcium/magnesium. A good ratio is 1,000mg calcium to 500mg magnesium daily.
- A daily light exercise program is recommended for health. Many women report cramping is much less severe when they move around while cramping, rather than laying down for example. I realize this is easier said than done.
- Drinking tea can help quite a bit. Make sure to steep your bags for a minimum of 5 minutes to make a strong tea. You can alternate chamomile, red raspberry, and ginger for some relief.
- If diarrhea is a problem you can introduce astringent herbs such as blackberry (Infusion: use 1 tsp. dried leaves to 1/2 cup boiling water. Let steep for 10 minutes and strain. Take 1/2 to 1 cup a day.) If constipation is a problem, you can use a gentle mild laxative such as flaxseed (grind the fresh seeds and place 1-2 tbsp in water and drink.)
- A great homeopathic remedy to try for cramping is Boiron Homeopathic Medicine Cyclease Cramp Tablets. This remedy works great and has really great reviews too.
- Acupuncture is another great idea for PMS. I recommend acupuncture 2x a month for overall body toning.
There are things you can do to relieve suffering! I hope that I helped give you some alternative ideas to get out of discomfort and pain. Please ask me if you have any questions about this topic or ANYTHING else! <3
Closing
I know that I am repeating myself here…..but please do your own due diligence and made sure that none of these recommendations have contraindications for you before use. To your health, and definitely your comfort.
Please note that I am not a medical practitioner. The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. By using this website, you assume full responsibility and liability for your own actions.
References
[1] Emmenogogue Herbs. Retrieved from http://www.sisterzeus.com/Emmeno.htm
[2] Buckle, J., Ryan, K., Chin, K. (2014) Clinical Aromatherapy for Pregnancy, Labor, and Postpartum. International Journal of Childbirth Education, Vol 29 Issue 4, p21-27, http://www.icea.org/sites/default/files/October%202014%20Proof.pdf
[2] Kerkhof-Knapp Hayes, M. (2015) Complementary Nursing in End of Life Care. Kicozo: Wernhout, NL
[2] Tisserand, R., Young, R. (2014) Essential Oil Safety (2nd Ed) Elsevier: London, UK (p. 163)
[3] American College of Healthcare Sciences, Herb 201 (2013)
by Leslie Moldenauer | | Body, Essential Oils
Peppermint Whipped Body Butter Recipe. You will be amazed how easy this recipe is to make, and it smells good enough to eat. Here is what you will need:
-1c cocoa butter (Use refined if allergies are common in the home/for who will be using the body butter)
-1/2c coconut oil (unrefined)
-1/2c almond, olive, or jojoba oil
-10-30 drops of either peppermint, lavender, or sweet orange essential oil (or another favorite)
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan under very low heat until cocoa butter and coconut oil are melted.
Remove from heat, let cool slightly and place in refrigerator for a minimum of an hour, until it starts to become solid. (If you do not let cool enough, it will take MUCH LONGER for your fluffy peaks)….and you will tire of mixing, I assure you….been there…done that.
Use a hand mixer and whip for a good 10 minutes or until fluffy peaks form. Add essential oils during this mixing process.
Place into glass jars. Return to fridge to set.
That is it, super simple. You will LOVE it. This is divine, better than anything you will find in the store. This recipe will make about 2 cups of butter. If you want to make a larger batch for your friends (they make great gifts) add a capsule or two of pure vitamin E oil as a preservative. Avoid dl-alpha-tocopherol, the synthetic form which has been genetically modified and is not safe.
Make note that just as coconut oil liquefies when in warmer temperatures, typically above 76 degrees, your butter will soften as it gets warmer. Store in a cool location and if it becomes too soft, place back into fridge…or mix again with a mixer if necessary. Enjoy your creation!! <3
Please note that I am not a medical practitioner. The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. By using this website, you assume full responsibility and liability for your own actions.
