Removing Heavy Metals from Your Body

Cilantro - also known as Coriander or Chinese parsley - has been proven to chelate toxic metals from our bodies in a relatively short period of time.

Combined with the benefits of the other ingredients, the following recipe for Cilantro Chelation Pesto is a powerful tissue cleanser. It is easy to make, and also really tasty. It's delicious on toast, baked potatoes, and pasta.

Two teaspoons of this cilantro pesto daily for three weeks is purportedly enough to increase the urinary excretion of mercury, lead, and aluminum, thus effectively removing these toxic metals from our bodies. Consider doing this cleanse for three weeks at least once a year, but more importantly, add the mixture to your normal diet.

Word of caution:
Our hollistic Dentist; Dr. Chen in La Jolla, CA informed me that you want to be careful doing any form of Chelation, because chelation cleanses all tissues in the body including the gums and teeth. If you have amalgam fillings in your mouth (silver or gold fillings), this could cause mercury to pull from the center of the filling, and go into the body as the chelation process draws it out. You want to first focus on getting the amalgams removed safely by a dentist who has the right equipment. Amalgam removal can be very dangerous otherwise. An Ozone machine is necessary, and then replacement with composite (white) fillings. Take plenty of extra vitamin C (liquid is best) to assist the body in detoxing the heavy metals out of the blood stream and away from the vital organs before, during and after dental appointment.

Cilantro Chelation Pesto:

4 cloves garlic
1/3 cup Brazil Nuts (selenium source)
1/3 cup sunflower seeds (cysteine source)
1/3 cup pumpkin seeds (zinc, magnesium sources)
2 cups packed fresh cilantro (coriander, Chinese parsley, Vitamin A source)
2/3 cup flaxseed oil
4 Tablespoons lemon juice (Vitamin C source)
2 tsp. Dulse powder
Braggs Liquid Aminos TM

Process the cilantro the flaxseed oil in a blender until the cilantro is chopped. Add the garlic, nuts, and seeds, dulse and lemon juice and mix until the mixture is finely blended into a paste. Add a squirt of Braggs Liquid Aminos to taste and blend again. Store in dark glass jars if possible. It freezes well, so purchase cilantro in season and fill enough jars to last through the year.

Dosage: 2 teaspoons a day (minimum of 3 weeks)

According to a different holistic dentist, Italian parsley has the same effect as cilantroin removing mercury from the body.

Boosting Brain Activity Blog Disclaimer (had to post for legal reasons):

In accordance with FDA regulations we provide the following disclaimers regarding all content in this blog (www.boostingbrainactivity.blogspot.com) are meant to educate, inspire, and create ripple effects in the lives of all mankind, but it should not be used as a substitute for personal medical advice. The reader should consult his or her physician or clinician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field is ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented. The FDA has not evaluated any statements contained herein. No medical claims are made or implied. Statements are not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. This information is intended to inform, educate, inspire, stimulate, and offer hope and encouragement. Always consult a qualified physician for any medical conditions. This information is provided solely for informational purposes. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. All documents contained in this blog are distributed under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which is generally referred to as the Freedom of Speech amendment in the Bill of Rights. Thank you :)

Speach and Language

No Bake Cookies (Simplified Version)

by my friend : Janine See (Zone-ologist)

2 Cups of Nuts (any kind)

2 Cups Unsweetened coconut

1/4 Cup Coconut Oil

3 TBS Agave

3 TBS Honey

Pinch of Salt

1tsp. Vanilla

Dark Chocolate Pieces (Cacao, or other Dark Chocolate organic bar finely chopped).

Grind nuts in blender, put in large bowl with coconut and chocolate pieces. Mix oil, honey, agave, vanilla, and salt together and add to nut mixture. Using clean hands, thoroughly mix together and scoop out with 1-2" ice cream scoop, or roll into 1-2" balls with hands.

The Vestibular System

Foods That Promote Happiness

Live long, live strong, and live happy!

If you’re feeling as blue as the skies above, you will be happy to know that a few spoonfuls of the right foods may turn that frown upside down! Whole foods contain vital nutrients that provide both physical and psychological benefits. Read on to discover which foods contain those mood-boosters to help you smile your way to longevity.

Fun with Folate

Eat folate-rich foods: Leafy greens like kale, broccoli, spinach, asparagus, turnip greens, bok choy, legumes, sunflower seeds, oranges, melons, beets, and fortified whole grains

Why? Folate, also know as folic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is necessary for cell division, DNA synthesis, and healthy blood cell production. Research at the University of York and Hull York Medical School has found a link between depression and low levels of folate. The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for men and women is 400 micrograms and 600 micrograms for pregnant women. To keep you smiling, increase your intake of folate-rich foods. A cup of cooked lentils provides 90% of the RDA of folic acid. Plus, the fiber and protein will satisfy you longer, stabilize blood sugar, and also promote a better mood. Additional bonuses: Folate can also decrease homocysteine, an amino acid that is linked to heart disease. Low levels of folate can cause anemia, while pregnant women must increase their folate levels to prevent fetal neural tube deficiencies.

Boost Your B6

Eat B6 foods: bananas, chicken breast, garlic, Brussels sprouts, collard greens, sunflower seeds, broccoli, red bell peppers, watermelon, avocados, and potatoes

Why? Vitamin B6 plays a role in red blood cell metabolism, protein metabolism, and synthesis of neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. It also helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels, and increases the amount of oxygen carried to your tissues. Low levels can lead to an increase of homocysteine, anemia, headaches, and depression. The RDA for adults from age 19 to 50 is 1.3 mg/day and approximately 1.6 mg for individuals over 50. The next time you’re feeling down, grab a banana and munch your blues away!

Go Fish!

Eat omega-3-rich foods: fish like salmon, sardines, mackerel, anchovies, and herring, flaxseeds, walnuts, and algae

Why? DHA omega-3 essential fatty acid maintains healthy brain function and is vital for fetal brain and eye development. Current research also demonstrates the association between intake of omega-3 fatty acids and depression. A meta-analysis study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that depression was significantly improved in patients with unipolar and bipolar disorders after taking three daily fish capsules for eight weeks. Eat the oily fish listed above -- a 3-ounce serving of salmon contains between 1.1 - 1.9 grams of omega-3 fatty acids. Supplementing with high quality fish oil capsules may be an alternative if you don’t consume fish on a regular basis. Vegetarian sources of omega-3 can be found in flaxseeds, walnuts, and algae. Toss a tablespoon of sunflower seeds or walnuts into a creamy cup of unsweetened low-fat yogurt for a mega mood boost (Dylan's favorite snack...Sammy's too)!

Good Carbs, Bad Carbs

Eat good carbs: whole grains, fruits, vegetables

Why? Not all carbohydrates are created equal. Whole grains, fruits, and veggies supply us with prolonged energy, fiber, and multiple nutrients that our bodies need for optimal health. Good quality carbohydrates can also trigger serotonin synthesis. Recognized as the “happy hormone,” serotonin is an important neurotransmitter that affects our mood and sleep. The next time you feel blue, instead of reaching for that bag of chips or sugary cookies, opt for unrefined, unprocessed carbohydrates that will provide you with sustained energy and an improved mood. Toss that muffin and enjoy a whole grain cracker with a tablespoon of natural nut butter for a delicious and uplifting snack!

You can find many more ways to live to 100 in Secrets of Longevity: Hundreds of Ways to Live to Be 100, which is now available on Kindle. Also, check out my new book Secrets of Longevity 8-Week Program, a journal that offers the best healthy habits to live to 100.

I hope you eat foods for many long, happy years. I invite you to visit often and share your own personal health and longevity tips with me.

May you live long, live strong, and live happy!

—Dr. Mao

This blog is meant to educate, but it should not be used as a substitute for personal medical advice. The reader should consult his or her physician or clinician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field is ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented.

Healthy Homemade Sugar Free Marshmallows

No: preservatives, corn syrup, or artificial flavors!

Makes 3 to 6 dozen marshmallows - depending on how large you make them

This recipe is based on one found in an older version of "The Joy of Cooking."

Most marshmallow recipes call for cooling the mixture in a cake pan then cutting into cubes. These marshmallows are piped into wonderful cloud-shaped puffs.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons Kosher powdered gelatin

1/2 cup cold water

1 1/2 cup of xylitol

1/2 cup hot water

1/2 cup light agave nectar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup of powered xylitol (food processor is great for this)

3 tablespoons arrowroot powder

1. In the first bowl of an upright mixer, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let the mixture stand for at least 5 minutes.

The gelatin will soften but it will not dissolve at this point.

2. Stir the xylitol and hot water with the agave nectar in a large saucepan over high heat until the xylitol has dissolved and the

mixture is boiling. When this syrup reaches 240-245 degrees on a candy thermometer, or as soon as a drop into a cup of cold water

forms a soft ball, it's ready.

3. With a whisk attachement on your mixer, blend the gelatin and cold water mixture as you stream in the boiling syrup. The hot

syrup will dissolve the gelatin. Continue to beat until the mixture is whipped into puffy white meringue-like froth that holds stiff peaks.

This can take as long as a half an hour as it cools. Slowly add the vanilla during the process.

4. While the marshmallows are whipping in the mixer, whisk together the powdered sugar and arrowroot powder and sift the mixture

over the surface of a baking sheet. I use parchment paper on the baking sheets to reuse the sugar, and for easy clean-up.

5. Pile the fluff mixture into a gallon-size zipper-top bag, snip one corner off the end of the bag and pipe the fluff through it onto the

xylitol lined baking sheet. Make them as big or as small as you want. Sprinkle the remaining xylitol mixture over the finished candies.

6. Let cool - they will firm up as they cool, and can be stored in a plastic container or popped into hot chocolate or on somemores - enjoy!

Another Healthy Recipe for Marshmallows...

•T. of unflavored gelatin (or sub 2 tsp. agar agar Powder or 3 T. of agar agar flakes) You can find vegan-friendly jel like Lieber’s at kosher and natural markets.
•1 c. chilled water
•1.5 c. truvia, stevia, or Lakanto (you can use organic cane sugar here!)
•1 c. agave nectar or honey
•1/4 tsp. kosher salt
•1 tsp. vanilla extract (I like the real stuff, mmm)

Prep. Use a chilled metal mixing bowl and whisk attachment(s)—you'll want a mixer for this unless you have awesome biceps. Spray a 13 x 9 inch rectangular pan with non-stick cooking spray. Combine powder sugar and corn starch in a small bowl. Sprinkle mixture in pan to coat, cover pan and shake to fully coat.

Cook. Place gelatin (or replacement) into bowl. Add 1/2 c. chilled water. In medium saucepan combine remaining water, sugar, agave and salt. Cover and cook for about 3 minutes. Uncover and continue to cook until mixture reaches about 235-240 degrees F (soft ball stage). Once temperature is reached remove from heat.

With your mixer on low, slowly add hot mixture to gelatin. When all syrup is added, put mixer on high. Continue to whip until mixture becomes thick and temp cools. Add the vanilla and whip for about a minute longer.

This mixture will whip for 10-15 minutes

Now add add the mixture to the pan. It will be difficult to spread. Use butter on your hands (or rubber spatula). Once spread out in the pan, sprinkle the top with more of the sugar/cornstarch mixture, cover w/ cheesecloth or thin towel and allow to set up overnight. (If you are a Fluffernutter sort of person and want marshmallow cream, skip this step.) Cut into 1 inch pieces and store in tightly sealed container at room temp. If any are left after they are immediately consumed, that is.

Anatomically distinct dopamine release during anticipation and experience of peak emotion to music

Music, an abstract stimulus, can arouse feelings of euphoria and craving, similar to tangible rewards that involve the striatal dopaminergic system.

Using the neurochemical specificity of [11C]raclopride positron emission tomography scanning, combined with psychophysiological measures of autonomic nervous system activity, we found endogenous dopamine release in the striatum at peak emotional arousal during music listening. To examine the time course of dopamine release, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging with the same stimuli and listeners, and found a functional dissociation: the caudate was more involved during the anticipation and the nucleus accumbens was more involved during the experience of peak emotional responses to music. These results indicate that intense pleasure in response to music can lead to dopamine release in the striatal system. Notably, the anticipation of an abstract reward can result in dopamine release in an anatomical pathway distinct from that associated with the peak pleasure itself. Our results help to explain why music is of such high value across all human societies.

Figures at a glance

leftFigure 1: Positive correlation between emotional arousal and intensity of chills during PET scanning.
The mean intensity of chills reported by each participant during the PET scanning session was significantly correlated with psychophysiological measurements that were also acquired during the scan. These are indicative of increased sympathetic nervous system activity, suggesting that the intensity of chills is a good marker of peak emotional arousal (Supplementary Table 1). The y axis represents standardized z scores for each biosignal. See main text for P-values.

See larger
Figure 2: Evidence for dopamine release during pleasurable music listening.
(a) Statistical parametric maps (t statistic on sagittal, coronal and axial slices) reveal significant (P < 0.001) [11C]raclopride binding potential (BP) decreases bilaterally in the caudate, putamen and NAcc (white arrows) during pleasurable compared with neutral music listening (Supplementary Table 2), indicating increased dopamine release during pleasurable music. (b) Changes in binding potential (BP) values plotted separately for each individual; note that the change was consistent for the majority of people at each site.

See larger
Figure 3: Combined fMRI and PET results reveal temporal distinctions in regions showing dopamine release.
(a) [11C]raclopride PET scan results were spatially conjoined with the fMRI results by creating a mask of significant dopamine release overlayed on BOLD response t maps during each condition. (b) Hemodynamic responses and dopamine activity were maximal in the caudate during anticipatory phases, but shifted more ventrally to NAcc during peak emotional responses. (c) Percent signal change in BOLD response relative to the mean was calculated from the peak voxel of the caudate and NAcc clusters based on the [11C]raclopride PET data. Voxels showing maximum dopamine release in the caudate and NAcc (Supplementary Table 2) were identified and percent BOLD signal change was calculated during the fMRI epochs associated with peak emotional responses; values were interpolated for each second preceding this response for each individual, up to 15 s, which was defined as the anticipatory period based on previous findings15 (see Online Methods for additional details). We found increased activity during anticipation (A1-A15) and decreased activity during peak emotional response (C1-C4) for the caudate, but a continuous increase in activity in NAcc with a maximum during peak emotional responses. The mean signal for neutral epochs for the NAcc and caudate clusters are also plotted for reference, as are the 5 s preceding the anticipation epochs.

For the entire article, and picture scans of the brain (figures mentioned above) in this study, go to:
http://www.nature.com/neuro/journal/vaop/ncurrent/full/nn.2726.html

Integrated Listening Systems: School Demo

How To Spot Energy Vampires

Who's the Emotional Vampire in Your Life? "Reprogramming"

As a physician, I've found that the biggest energy drain on my patients is relationships. Some relationships are positive and mood elevating. Others can suck optimism and serenity right out of you. I call these draining people "emotional vampires." They do more than drain your physical energy. The malignant ones can make you believe you're unworthy and unlovable. Others inflict damage with smaller digs to make you feel bad about yourself. For instance, "Dear, I see you've put on a few pounds" or "You're overly sensitive!" Suddenly they've thrown you off-center by prodding areas of shaky self-worth.

To protect your energy it's important to combat draining people. The following strategies from my book "Emotional Freedom" will help you identify and combat emotional vampires from an empowered place.

Signs That You've Encountered an Emotional Vampire

•Your eyelids are heavy -- you're ready for a nap

•Your mood takes a nosedive

•You want to binge on carbs or comfort foods

•You feel anxious, depressed or negative

•You feel put down

Types of Emotional Vampires:

1.The Narcissist
Their motto is "Me first." Everything is all about them. They have a grandiose sense of self-importance and entitlement, hog attention and crave admiration. They're dangerous because they lack empathy and have a limited capacity for unconditional love. If you don't do things their way, they become punishing, withholding or cold.

How to Protect Yourself: Keep your expectations realistic. These are emotionally limited people. Try not to fall in love with one or expect them to be selfless or love without strings attached. Never make your self-worth dependent on them or confide your deepest feelings to them. To successfully communicate, the hard truth is that you must show how something will be to their benefit. Though it's better not to have to contend with this tedious ego stroking, if the relationship is unavoidable this approach works.

2.The Victim

These vampires grate on you with their "poor-me" attitude. The world is always against them, the reason for their unhappiness. When you offer a solution to their problems they always say, "Yes, but..." You might end up screening your calls or purposely avoid them. As a friend, you may want to help but their tales of woe overwhelm you.

How to Protect Yourself: Set kind but firm limits. Listen briefly and tell a friend or relative, "I love you but I can only listen for a few minutes unless you want to discuss solutions." With a coworker sympathize by saying, "I'll keep having good thoughts for things to work out." Then say, "I hope you understand, but I'm on deadline and must return to work." Then use "this isn't a good time" body language such as crossing your arms and breaking eye contact to help set these healthy limits.

3.The Controller

These people obsessively try to control you and dictate how you're supposed to be and feel. They have an opinion about everything. They'll control you by invalidating your emotions if they don't fit into their rulebook. They often start sentences with "You know what you need?" and then proceed to tell you. You end up feeling dominated, demeaned or put down.

How to Protect Yourself: The secret to success is never try and control a controller. Be healthily assertive, but don't tell them what to do. You can say, "I value your advice but really need to work through this myself." Be confident but don't play the victim.

4.The Constant Talker

These people aren't interested in your feelings. They are only concerned with themselves. You wait for an opening to get a word in edgewise but it never comes. Or these people might physically move in so close they're practically breathing on you. You edge backwards, but they step closer.

How to Protect Yourself: These people don't respond to nonverbal cues. You must speak up and interrupt, as hard as that is to do. Listen for a few minutes. Then politely say, "I hate to interrupt, but please excuse me I have to talk to these other people... or get to an appointment... or go to the bathroom." A much more constructive tactic than, "Keep quiet, you're driving me crazy!" If this is a family member, politely say, "I'd love if you allowed me some time to talk to so I can add to the conversation." If you say this neutrally, it can better be heard.


5.The Drama Queen

These people have a flair for exaggerating small incidents into off-the-chart dramas. My patient Sarah was exhausted when she hired a new employee who was always late for work. One week he had the flu and "almost died." Next, his car was towed, again! After this employee left her office Sarah felt tired and used.

How to Protect Yourself: A drama queen doesn't get mileage out of equanimity. Stay calm. Take a few deep breaths. This will help you not get caught up in the histrionics. Set kind but firm limits. Say, for example, "You must be here on time to keep your job. I'm sorry for all your mishaps, but work comes first."

To improve your relationships and increase your energy level, I suggest taking an inventory of people who give you energy and those that drain you. Try to spend time with the loving, nurturing people, and learn to set limits with those who drain you. This will enhance the quality of your life.

Dr. Judith Orloff

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/judith-orloff-md/how-to-deal-with-draining_b_807069.html

Music for the Mind ~ The Art of Music and Ostad Elahi

Music has a number of positive physiological and psychological benefits. Over the centuries, the therapeutic benefits of music have been extensively studied in various settings. More recently, neuroimaging studies have helped us better understand the effect of music on the brain. The music of Ostad Elahi has gained tremendous attention in the West since its release to the public in the ‘90s as a unique and powerful music. Ethnomusicologists, neuroscientists, and musicians have begun to explore the potential benefits of his music, and to discuss adapting therapeutic music programs based on unique musical repertoire like his. Music for the Mind is a superb example of a sound stimulation auditory training program that can help facilitate profound changes through the power of music and active listening.

Dr. Kamran Fallahpour, Director, The Brain Resource Center and Alex Doman, Founder & CEO, Advanced Brain Technologies will be lecturing on the intricate music of Ostad Elahi, a master musician and virtuoso of the tambour. The lecture will take you on a magical journey of the power of his music!

$30 General Audience & $15 Students
For tickets please visit www.ticketmaster.com, by Phone
(949) 824-2787 or at the UCI Arts Plaza Box Office.

The proceeds will be donated to the
UCI Susan Samueli Center for Integrative Medicine Autism Initiatives.

If you live or will be in Southern California on February 3rd consider joining us for an exciting and eductional evening!

For more information, please see Advanced Brain Technologies website at www.advancedbrain.com

ADHD NewsTip # 13 is more about listening.

Whaddya Say? I Still Can't Hear You.

1. Check for ear dominance. Everybody moves their head to the right and listens carefully. What do you hear? Then head to the left and listen carefuly. What do you hear? Did you hear the most from your left ear or your right ear? Your dominant ear hears the most.

2. Move children who have a strong dominant ear so that ear is toward you. Dominant left ear? Child is seated with left ear toward the teacher.

And keep doing Thinking Caps from ADHD NewsTips #12.

Next: Move to Math

P.S. If you've forgotten how to do "Thinking Caps," you'll find a picture at http://www.ADHDChildrenToday.com/articles.htm

Dr. MaryJo Wagner
Helping smart parents raise smart kids. Sign up today for 'Smart Kids Strategies'
http://smartkidssmartparents.com/sign-up

105 S. Irving St.
Denver, CO 80219
303-484-8027
mjw@mjwagner.com
http://smartkidssmartparents.com

Brain Highways: The Pons

10 Things the Processed Food Industry Doesn't Want You to Know!

http://www.bodyecology.com/archive/10-things-processed-food-industry.php
By BodyEcology.com

Processed food is fast and easy, but before you stop at the next vending machine or fast food window, find out what they DON’T want you to know about processed foods.

Okay, they taste good...and they’re easy. In fact, they’re everywhere you look.

Processed foods seem like the answer to today’s busy lives. New fads and fancy advertisements make promises that keep us coming back for more.

But before you hit the vending machine or the fast food window, find out what the processed food industry doesn’t want you to know:

1.Processed foods are addictive and can cause you to overeat. Whole foods are made up of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, fiber and water. When foods are processed the components of these foods are modified (for example, fiber, water and nutrients are removed) and in other cases, components are concentrated. In each case, processing changes the way they are digested and assimilated in your body.

Eating highly processed or highly concentrated foods can artificially stimulate dopamine (the pleasure neurotransmitter), which plays a role in addiction. In this way, you are eating foods that lack nutrients and fiber, but create a pleasurable feeling. A food addiction starts because you feel good when you are eating these foods and they make you think they taste better. You crave that pleasurable feeling again and again and viola…this is what starts a food addiction.

2.Processed foods are linked to obesity. Additives in processed foods, like high fructose corn syrup, sugar and MSG have been linked to weight gain and obesity. Dr. Mercola recently reported about a new study that showed childhood obesity could be reduced by 18 percent, simply by cutting out fast food advertisements during children’s programming.3 The Australian government is clearly more concerned about their children’s health as television advertisements to children were banned several years ago.

3.Processed foods often contain ingredients that do not follow the principle of food combining, which can lead to low energy, poor digestion, illness, acidic blood and weight gain. An example would be a frozen meat and cheese pizza. Cheese (a dairy product), meat (an animal protein) and pizza crust (a grain product) make a terrible food combination that can wreak havoc on your digestive health.

4.Processed foods contribute to an imbalanced inner ecosystem, which can lead to digestive problems, cravings, illness and disease. Beneficial microflora cannot survive in your digestive tract when you are poisoning them. Like us they thrive on foods that are made by nature not by man.

5.A diet high in processed foods can lead to depression, memory issues and mood swings. Ingredients in processed foods are often the lowest cost and sub-par, nutritionally. For example, the fats and oils used in processed foods are refined, which means they are stripped of the essential fatty acids necessary for healthy blood sugar levels, moods and memory. Your heart, hormones and brain suffer when you choose to eat these fats and oils. Instead choose the organic, unrefined or “virgin” fats and oils that are recommended on The Body Ecology Diet.

6.Processed foods often go hand in hand with “eating on the run” or multitasking. Most people will choose convenience if they are on the run and in today’s busy lives, who of us isn’t? Unfortunately, multitasking while eating causes people to lose touch with their natural appetite, often leading to weight gain. Additionally, multitasking sends the wrong signals to your digestive system, which needs to be in a restful mode to digest properly.

7.Nutrition labels on processed foods are often misleading and have harmful health effects. Many labels say “sugar free,” but contain other sweeteners like agave, which is like high fructose corn syrup. Additionally, product labeling may hide ingredients like GM (genetically modified) foods and harmful additives like MSG. (These are hidden behind words on the label like “natural flavorings” or “approved spices”).

8.Diets high in processed meats (like hot dogs and deli meats) have been linked to various forms of cancer, such as pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer and stomach cancer.

9.Eating too many processed foods can lead to infertility and malnutrition. Processed foods, like cereal, are stripped of important vitamins and nutrients that your body truly needs. You could be eating a large amount of calories and still be malnourished if your diet is high in processed foods.
Animal studies have shown that over three generations, a deficient diet causes reproduction to cease.6 Today, infertility is on the rise, affecting 7.3 million people in America.

10.Processed foods are made for long shelf-life, not long human life! Chemicals, additives and preservatives are added to processed foods so that they will last for a long time without going rancid or affecting the taste of the food. Food manufacturers spend time, money and research on beautiful packaging and strategies to lengthen shelf-life, with little attention on how the foods will lengthen your life or create lasting health

Top 25 Reasons to Avoid Sugar!

Sure sugar tastes good, when you are used to eating the Standard American Diet, high in processed foods. But once you start eating the sour-tasting fermented foods on the Body Ecology program, you lose your cravings for sugar...and you are on your way to natural energy and greater health!

Here some of the dangers of consuming sugar:


1.Feeds candida

2.Promotes wrinkling and aging skin2

3.Makes your blood acidic3

4.Can lead to osteoporosis.4

5.Rots your teeth5

6.Raises your blood sugar level6

7.Contributes to obesity7

8.Is addictive (almost as much as drugs) 8

9.Can create the urge to binge9

10.Provides 'empty calories' with no nutritional value10

11.Contributes to diabetes11

12.Robs your body of minerals.12

13.Robs you of energy13

14.Contributes to heart problems14

15.Can cause cancer15

16.Contributes to ulcers16

17.Can cause gallstones17

18.Contributes to adrenal fatigue

19.Can suppress your immune system18

20.Raises the level of neurotransmitters called serotonin19

21.Weakens eyesight

22.Sugar can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels).

23.Can cause aging20

24.Can contribute to eczema21

25.Can cause arthritis22

To learn more about the dangers of sugar and find out if you're a 'sugarholic', read Lick The Sugar Habit, by Nancy Appelton, PhD.

If you suspect you are a 'sugarholic,' however, this could be a sign you have Candida. Rice University researchers estimate that 70% of Americans have this systemic fungal infection.23 Yes, it is an infection and can become a serious life-threatening infection. The yeast love sugar. When you eat sugar you make your blood more acidic and the yeast infection becomes even more acute.

For more information on avoiding sugar go to www.bodyecology.com (my favorite site for the truth about sugar and our ecosystem).

See my blog Archive for the candida questionnaire to find out if candida could be affecting your health. You will get a score at the end of the questionaire that tells how "at risk" you are for candida over growth.

Just say "No" to SUGAR especially High Fructose Corn Syrup and ASPARTAME! Say "Yes" to Lakanto, Truvia & Stevia...maybe a little Agave

What are all these strange words you're supposed to be saying yes to??

Lakanto - This all natural sweetener is a zero glycemic, non-caloric sugar substitute. Enjoyed in Japan for nearly a decade. Lakanto was formulated by combining an extract of Luo han guo (chinese plant) with Erythritol fermented from non-GMO corn. Erythritol is the only sugar alcohol made by fermentation. Ideal for diabetes, obesity, and all health concious consumers.

One for One sugar substitute:
Lakanto can be used just like sugar since its sweetness is equivalent. Over two years of research went into formulating Lakanto to duplicate the sweetness profile of sugar. It's great anytime you want a delicious sweet taste. Lakanto is perfect for cooking, and baking since it will not discolor or disintegrate when heated. Delicious tasting. No after taste. Does not cause CAVAIES.
More information on Lakanto can be found at www.bodyecology.com

Truvia - Rebiana comes from the sweet leaf of the stevia plant, native to South America. Dried Stevia leaves are steeped in water, similar to making tea. This unlocks the best tasting part of the leaf which is then purified to provide a calorie-free sweet taste. Erythritol is a natural sweetener, produced by a natural process, and is also found in fruits like grapes and pears. Read mor about Truvia at www.truvia.com

Stevia - Stevia Rebaudiana is a small plant native to Paraguay and Brazil. It was "discovered" in 1887 by a South American scientist named Antonio Bertoni who learned of the herb from the Guarani Paraguayan Indians. Stevia was known locally as Caa'-ehe or Kaa'-he-e which means "sweet herb" or "honeyleaf."
Two French chemists named Bridel and Lavieille began to unravel the secret of Stevia in 1931 with exploratory extraction work on Stevia Rebaudiana leaves. Their research yielded a pure, white crystalline compound they named "Stevioside." They found this substance to be 100-300 times sweeter than table sugar and with out toxic effects in laboratory animals.
In 1971 a Chinese researcher, Dr. Tei-fu-chen visited Paraguay where he became so interested inStevia that he applied for residency status in both Paraguay and Brazil. The non-chemical method of extraction (alcohol) recorded in herbal manuscripts of Chinese emporers became the standard method of extraction for Stevia. It removed the undesirable green color and bitter after taste that is found in Stevia Leaves.
Dozens of studies have shown Stevia to be a safe supplement for the human diet, and it is currently used extensively through out the world in a variety of ways. This information came from the company "NOW" however, I am a bigger fan of Body Ecology's brand of Stevia (for purity and taste).

Blue Agave Nectar - There are a lot of imposters out there claiming to be Agave, it's hard to tell if you're getting a good brand or not. Agave is a natural sweetener that is similar to honey or syrup in color and texture. It is extracted from the heart of the Agave plant which is a cactus. It has a light to dark amber coloring. It is a low glycemic index sweetener, so itis slowly absorbed into the body preventing spikes in blood sugar. It's 25% sweeter than sugar so less is needed.

In our family, we use Truvia the most, Lakanto second, and Stevia last. Only because it's a matter of taste bud preferences amongst each family member. We use Agave in place of Maple Syrup. Although many people use a pure maple syrup, I have found that Dylan has less of a reaction of spiked energy from the sweeteners listed above. That doesn't mean that I'm dissing Pure Maple Syrup, it's just not high on this list.

Please see my other posts under "Archive" for more information on High Fructose Corn Syrup, Aspartame, etc. "Just say No!" Literally, they might as well be drugs dealt on the streets...let alone in our FOOD!

ADHD NewsTip # 12 ~ Brain Gym's Thinking Caps:

When they can't hear you, try ADHD NewsTip # 12. It's Brain Gym's
Thinking Caps.

This has worked for Dylan since he was a baby! We still do this to Dylan frequently! The dentist (that he recently saw) was amazed at how quickly Dylan calmed down in preperation for his shot just from getting this technique done by me :)

I did this intuitively from his infancy stages, and later when he was 4 years old, I learned (in my kinesiology studies) exactly what this technique was, and why it worked so well on Dylan! My first teacher in these techniques was not Brain Gym, it was Laura Jacobs at Herbs For Health in Pleasant Grove, UT.
~Kimberly

Did you know that stimulating all those nerve endings in the the
cartilage around the outside of your ear improves listening?

How to do Thinking Caps:
With your fingertips at the top of your
ear, unroll the folded-over part of your ear. Follow all the way
down to your ear lobe. Repeat three times, doing both ears at the
same time.

Not sure this works? Before you do Thinking Caps, turn your head to
the right and listen carefully. What do you hear? Then to the left
and listen carefully. What do you hear? Now do Thinking Cap. When
you're finished, turn your head to the left and right again. Listen
carefully? Do you hear more? Most kids will.

For a picture of The Thinking Cap and instructions for how to do it,
when to do, and what it does, see
http://www.ADHDChildrenToday.com/articles.htm

Next: I Still Can't Hear You.

P.S. The Brain Boosters blog has tips, strategies, news,
controversy, and opinion about ADHD and lots of other brain-based
learning stuff. Subscribe at
http://www.brainboostersforyourkids.blogspot.com

Dr. MaryJo Wagner
Helping smart parents raise smart kids. Sign up today for 'Smart Kids Strategies'
http://smartkidssmartparents.com/sign-up

105 S. Irving St.
Denver, CO 80219
303-484-8027
mjw@mjwagner.com
http://smartkidssmartparents.com

Brain Highways: An Organized Brain

Keep GMOs out of Organics! They effect the Brain in a NEGATIVE way!

I always say, when it comes to the cost of the food we put in our bodies, "You either pay with your money or you pay with your health!" ~Kimberly

Great documentaries to watch: King Corn, and The Beautiful Truth! You can get these 2 documentaries on NetFlix, or call your local video store to see if they have them.

"Where ignorance is bliss...Awareness is empowering!" ~Kimberly


Note from my dear friend Melyna:
Just thought you might find this interesting and worthwhile. We need
to preserve our right to make choices about our food.
GMO is taking over farms everywhere. I do not believe that plant life that can't be controlled, should be allowed to be patented & put others out of business, while invading our grocery stores without labels. Do you know what you're buying for your children/family when you go to the store? The effects of GMO's are hazardous!

-Melyna

Keep GMOs out of Organics!

Clicking on this website will automatically add your name to the letter to
Secretary Vilsack and President Obama:

The USDA must immediately ban Monsanto's GMO alfalfa from the market
and work to ensure that the organic industry is protected from genetic
contamination and loss of profits and stand up for the basic rights
for Americans to know what is in their food and how it's produced.

Take a stand for organics, tell Secretary Vilsack and President Obama
to reject Monsanto's GMO alfalfa

Dear Reader,

Everything you thought you knew about organics is about to change.
If the USDA and Monsanto get their way, organic integrity is about to
go the way of the dinosaur. Once again, the organic industry is
under assault. This time the USDA is determined to let Monsanto ride
roughshod over common sense environmental rules that would protect
organic farmers from having their crops contaminated by Monsanto’s
genetically modified (GMO) Roundup Ready seeds. Last month, the
USDA released its position on Monsanto’s GMO alfalfa, stating that the USDA would go ahead and allow GMO alfalfa to be planted in the U.S.
despite the fact that is scientifically proven to contaminate organic
alfalfa, a crop that organic dairy farmers and organic beef producers depend upon for feed. According to USDA organic standards, GMO crops are not allowed for animal feed.1 If organic and conventional alfalfa crops are allowed to be contaminated by GMO alfalfa, the organic dairy industry stands to lose more than $1.4 billion, as organic integrity is dependent upon GMO-free ingredients and feed.2

Click on the link below to tell Secretary Vilsack and President Obama that you refuse to accept genetic contamination of the organic industry. Tell him it’s time to stand up to Monsanto and the biotech industry. It’s vital that he hear from you today.

http://action.fooddemocracynow.org/go
Coexistence and the Road to Continued Organic Contaminiation. In his most recent announcement, Vilsack hoped to be able to offer a middle ground on GMOs. The Obama administration's bright idea calls for a new era of coexistence between the organic and biotech industries.

The "coexistence" model - one of the two proposed options - would
create "geographic restrictions and isolation distances" between GMO
and non-GMO alfalfa fields. The problem with "coexistence", is that it
looks a lot like the past 15 years where organic and conventional farmers have been forced to go out of business or adopt GMOs because the technology is so flawed that it can’t be planted in one farmer's field and stay there.

No, GMO crops routinely contaminate other farmer’s fields — that is, genetically pollute other crops that don’t contain their patented genes. While prudent, non-corporate scientists have warned against the unknown long-term consequences of genetic contamination in nature caused by GMO seeds and crops, past administrations and USDA bureaucrats have gone ahead and recklessly approved these crops anyway.

Already the biotech industry is throwing a fit about this being a dangerous precedent, taken to mean that they could no longer fully dictate the terms of seed planting and approval. We need to let Secretary Vilsack and President Obama know that if they allow GMO alfalfa to be planted, from this point forward, the history books will write about the loss of the organic industry under Vilsack and Obama's watch.

Click on the link below (or copy paste it into your browser) to tell Secretary Vilsack and President Obama that you're outraged that they would needlessly put the organic industry, environment and future generations at risk in favor of corporate profits.

http://action.fooddemocracynow.org/go/329?akid=285.154872.T1xd65&t=9

GMO Alfalfa Not Needed By Farmers, Not Worth the Risk. Unfortunately, rather than provide protection for the fastest growing and most profitable sector in agriculture, the Obama administration is needlessly putting the $26 billion organic industry at risk over a GMO crop that is not needed by farmers.

As a crop, genetically modified alfalfa is entirely unnecessary. Since
alfalfa is a perennial grain, it has significantly less weed
competition than annual crops where Roundup is normally used. Unlike
corn, soybeans and other crops, alfalfa does not have persistent weed problems, therefore Monsanto’s and the biotech industry's
arguments for seeking approval of Roundup Ready alfalfa based on the
need for weed control are completely without merit. It would appear
that the only thing that Monsanto is seeking is another revenue stream for its failed line of Roundup Ready seeds.

Unfortunately, if Vilsack does go ahead with his decision to
deregulate GMO alfalfa or opt for "coexistence", things are about to
get a whole lot worse for farmers. Not only will the organic industry have to deal with massive genetic contamination, but farmers everywhere will
have to figure out how to deal with the further spread of Monsanto’s
Roundup Ready resistant superweeds which have already spread to at
least 10 species of weeds and have infested millions of acres in 22 U.S. states since 2000.4For farmers the rise in superweeds leads to an increased usage of herbicides, which not only contaminate our rivers and streams, but also decreases profits for farmers and creates unknown potential human health problems. Already, farmers across the U.S. are being forced to use 2 or even 3 toxic herbicides to keep superweeds at bay. Click on the link below to tell Secretary Vilsack and President Obama to stand up for organic integrity and that organic farmers and consumers have a right to eat food that is not contaminated with Monsanto's patented GMO genes!

http://action.fooddemocracynow.org/go/329?akid=285.154872.T1xd65&t=11

Thank you for participating in food democracy, your action today may
help save the organic industry.

Dave, Lisa and the Food Democracy Now! Team

Sources:1. USDA Announces Final Environmental Impact Statement for Genetically Engineered Alfalfa United States Department of Agriculture, Press Release, December 16, 2010.

http://action.fooddemocracynow.org/go

2. DeFazio Wants Rules on Genetically Engineered
Alfalfa, Natural Resource Report, July 3, 2010.

http://action.fooddemocracynow.org/go

3. Biotech alfalfa restrictions would be dangerous
precedent & Dairy Herd Management, January 7, 2011.

http://action.fooddemocracynow.org/go

4. Farmers Cope With Roundup-Resistant Weeds, The New
York Times, May 3, 2010.

http://action.fooddemocracynow.org/go

Is Your New Year's Resolution to Lose Weight? Weight Loss ~ It's all in Your Programming...and It's all connected to the brain!

One of the most common New Year’s Resolutions is to lose weight. So easy to say and yet most people have failed by the beginning of February. Read on . . . Read these stories . . .

So how about you – how about THIS year? Ready to make it different?

We had a client who decided to make this year different. She came in for a Holistic Health Scan consultation. The client began with a two week cleanse to prep her for success on her diet. The cleanse she scanned for was a candida cleanse.

Then she was ready to roll with her program. She started, she ran into the “I hate this diet” – so what did she do? She did an EVOX session. What is EVOX? It is voice mapping. What is it for? Perception reframing – to change your perception. Why? Because your perception runs YOUR LIFE!! So the client had no idea what her issue was. After her 1st EVOX session she had all kinds of realizations. She hated being controlled in super unhealthy ways during childhood! She had made food the one thing she COULD control. She rebelled. She ate junk food.

So what happened when she went on the diet? She rebelled again. “Oh no – I’m being controlled” – all those issues back in her face. The trash in her head revealed itself – AFTER the EVOX session. Now, she has new awareness. She is making new choices. She has done her second EVOX session. She feels different. She is making better choices. No longer “cheating” with junk, self-destructive food. She is now making healthier choices. “Cheating” is done with health food now!! She is progressing – taking back her life. She’s letting go of the trash in her head.

This is REAL progress. This is REAL healing. This is what we do at Herbs for Health. REAL coaching. REAL programs designed just for YOU.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Herbs For Health is located in Pleasant Grove, UT The owner is Laura Jacobs. I trained under her for my certification in Kinesiology. Her store is now run by Kriss Ross and Maria Heuser, but you can see her here and there...what a treat to just briefly rub elbows with her.

I love cheating with healthy treats :)

I have done EVOX, and wish I was closer to Herbs for Health so that I could do some more. It's very detoxing, so make sure you drink a lot of water after any session, and don't plan a bunch of errands, or events on the day you have your session.
Kimberly Gingras

The Brain Highways Local Program

Brain Highways: The Pons

Brain Highways: The Midbrain

I Won!!! I am The New Mrs. Montana International 2011!!!

Please see my new blog that tracks my progress to North Carolina, and the "latest update" with my new title: Mrs. Montana International 2011!
Boosting B.R.A.I.N. Activity is my platform for this wonderful event! However, it's been my platform since Dylan was born!!!

I'm in the pursuit of completing my mission here on earth!

Read more at www.kimberlygingras.blogspot.com

For more information about the Mrs. International Pageant System, go to www.mrsinternational.com