I’m starting the New Year off right. Today I had my first mammogram. Not as bad as I’d thought actually. I won’t have the results back for another week but, hey, @ least I’ve done something right for my health to start the new year.
So. If you’ve of the appropriate age or if you have family members who’ve had cancer (especially breast) have you had a mammogram yet?
Happy New Year one & all!
November 24th, 2009
A change in the sensitivity of your breasts, other than pain, might be a symptom of menopause, but it also might be something more severe. It could be mastic breast tissue, cysts, breast disease, or even neuropathy related to multiple sclerosis or fibromyalgia. It can also be a warning sign of breast cancer.
The new government recommendations on breast cancer screening were surprising to many doctors, but I happen to agree with them. The government is currently recommending against regular mammography tests for women aged 40 to 49. The guidelines also downplay the effectiveness of self-examinations and advise that women aged 50 to 74 years receive mammograms every other year.The change in early detection direction came from a U.S. Preventive Services Task Force comprised of a government panel of doctors and scientists. They concluded that early and frequent screenings by mammography often lead to false alarms and unneeded biopsies without substantially improving a woman’s odds of survival.
I agree with these new guidelines. First, I have not been a fan of mammograms for some time. I find that mammograms are not nearly as effective in detection as some other tests, like MRI’s and ultrasounds. I also have found that even when I teach my patients how to complete a manual breast exam, they are less than effective.
I support the new guidelines because I think it will lead to better testing. The ultrasound is a better screening procedure that’s safer and easier and picks up things fast. I believe that women should receive ultrasounds every year as part of their routine medical exam, beginning at an early age. If needed, MRI or PET scans can detect lumps and bumps better than any mammogram ever could.
Dr. Eric Braverman
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click here for map to Dr. Joe’s office~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Click Here To Read Study PLEASE PASS IT ON…
risk-of-vertebrobasilar-stroke-and-chiropractic-care
Over the past year I have turned 40, been diagnosed with cervical cancer, have had radiotherapy and chemotherapy, which led to instantaneous menopause, which, in turn seems to be leading to a series of health changes, not the least of them being joint pain. The hot flashes I expected and so far they are relatively benign. The joint pain, however, came as quite a surprise. The symptoms came on very suddenly and migrated a little, but now the worst can be felt in my knees all day long and my hands in the morning and sometimes at night. My fingers feel swollen and my morning exercise consists of trying to make a fist. As for my knees, any type of stairs, whether going up or down, brings on varying degrees of discomfort through the day.
I remember the doctor saying that I would be able to continue my regular activities and that life would get back to normal. I guess I’m still waiting for this “normal” mode to make its reappearance. On the one hand, I feel this new thirst for life and want to live it to the fullest. Yet, physically, I feel 20 years older than I am chronologically, and don’t see how I can live it up and pursue activities that I dreamed of picking up again. Guitar, anyone?
What is normal life after cancer and sudden onset of menopause? If anyone out there is actually reading this, do you have an answer to that question?
PART 1
As we know, spirit shines out of the undimensional levels of Being into the dimensions of time and space. It creates substance, then forms made of that substance, and then moves through these forms in its creative activity. The movement of spirit in the dimensional world creates pressure. Wherever there’s pressure, there’s movement and change. The purpose for this activity is to create new and expanded forms of experience in Being, so that Being may have an ever-changingand expanding experience of Self.
Bringing all this down to our immediate locale, the Earth, we see that some major forms of pressure have developed in the body of the planet. Pressure is everywhere, of course, but I’m now thinking of such large engines of pressure as are present, for example, in the Earth’s core—where pressure builds, causing volcanic eruption. In the Earth’s crust pressures develop and, when enough is generated, earthquakes occur. In the element of water, when flowing downhill or moving in ocean currents and tides, enormous pressures are created. And in the atmosphere there are high- and low-pressure areas with the subsequent winds, as the air moves from the high- to low-pressure areas. All life forms are affected by these and many other phenomena, but I wish to emphasize these major engines of outer movement. When people experience pressure, such as the high cost of living, they don’t usually associate it with any of the forces I’ve referred to. But, for example, when the sun shines and heats up water or land, causing high pressure bareas in the atmosphere, this affects climate, which determines crop production, which causes pressure in the human world because of the cost of food, and this affects the cost of many other things. As this occurs, all sorts of social pressures then develop. Some people can afford items, whilst others can’t. One could take a long time illustrating how individu1als’ challenges originate back to some of these larger planetary pressures. Population growth is another source of increasing worldwide pressure.TIME TO EVOL
More personally, pressures occur within the individual.There are some relatively pleasant ones, as when pressure is relieved in the processes of elimination; in sexual function there is the development and release of pressure. And there’s pressure experienced in all creative activities. These pressures are rather delightful. But, as we know, there are other pressures that are not so pleasant. Maybe something gets blocked in the physical body—the bowel, or circulatory system perhaps—the pressure that develops then is not so comfortable. If there is a personal problem, then mental or emotional pressures can develop. Obviously, in such cases, we seek to alleviate what is causing the oppressive experience. We go to the doctor, perhaps, and we consider many things in order to alleviate mental and emotional pressure.We do this more or less naturally,but what happens when oppressive pressure isn’t readily resolved? Earlier I mentioned that the purpose for spirit being released into the dimensional world is to create an expanded experience of Self, and that nrequires pressure. (Though in the divine Design, this is not oppressive pressure.) We know that pressure is required in physical birth, and so it is in this multidimensional process of continuous birth into a greater experience of Self. So, when we encounter pressure in our lives— whether pressures in relationship, finances, health, or anything else—we need to remember the basic purpose back of all pressure. Cosmically, pressure is designed to expand and develop the experience of a greater Self, and so it is in the holographic lives of individuals. It’s exactly the same process, and when pressure comes we can handle it correctly by remembering what its fundamental purpose is. We allow an ascension process within ourselves.We, like a bar of soap when squeezed, either go up or down.
When pressure comes on we resolve to let our consciousness be expanded upward. We focus on the wonderful quality of our Being and act accordingly in the midst of pressure.We don’t necessarily have to do too much externally. I’m not trying to legislate as to what we do; it’s really just holding in mind the quality that is at the core of the process, so that one is penetrating deeper into the quality of Self. If this is done consistently, the identity becomes established in what we call the angelic Self. This Identity is divine. This qualitative experience is in the undimensional levels of Being, and this is always the place of peace, because in the undimensional levels there is no pressure. So if one can locate this experience in one’s outer consciousness and let the consciousness be absorbed into the qualitative nature of who we really are, then there is a very different experience relative to external pressures. We are not overwhelmed by them.
EVOLYOUSELF EVERYDAY
TO BE CONTINUED…
Menopause and Weight Gain
Menopause and weight gain are closely associated with each other. Women undergoing menopause seem to suffer the unwelcome results of weight gain. Nearly every woman struggles through it during perimenopause and menopause. A woman gaining from 10 to 15 pounds during this stage in her life is not unusual. What makes it even worse is that various studies also show that weight gain before and during menopause can actually increase the risk of breast cancer in women.
There are many factors involved that allows women to gain weight during menopause. One of them is hormonal changes with age. During menopause, women begin to experience having lower levels of estrogen in the body. Estrogen has been linked to weight gain in menopausal women along with the decreasing levels of testosterone.
Another factor that has a role in weight gain among menopausal women is the development of insulin resistance. This can occur during the menopausal years when the body becomes inefficient in metabolizing every calorie taken in, eventually converting it into fat. Eating mostly processed and refined foods can make the body resistant to insulin that is being produced in the blood stream over time. This is being cited as one of the causes of weight gain in women after the age of 40.
Another probable reason for weight gain in women during menopause is stress. Stress is a major factor involved in weight gain during menopause. When stress hormones are produced in the body, they signal it to go into storage mode, making weight loss even more difficult. The stress hormones enable the body to undergo what is also known as the “famine effect”. In this stage, the stress hormones lead the body into thinking that it won’t be getting food again for a long time so that it shifts to storing every calorie it takes in, thus causing weight gain.
It can be very difficult for women to undergo weight loss during menopause. What most women can do is to learn how to accept weight gain during menopause as a natural thing. Weight gain during this period of a woman’s life is not entirely bad. Weight gain may even provide some good. A little weight gained may help in lessening anxiety as well as hot flashes that are also the usual symptoms that is associated with menopause. Weight gain during menopause is also a means of the body to prepare itself from osteoporosis or other types of illnesses.
There is a way that women may be able to do in trying to keep weight gain during menopause in check. Eating a balanced diet may help make weight gain during menopause a benefit instead of a burden. Women should avoid the consumption of refined sugars as well as processed foods and instead fill up their daily diet with fruits and vegetables.
Women undergoing menopause and weight gain should also try to avoid crash diets. It will only makes things even worse as starving the body will only cause one’s metabolism to slow down and cause even more weight to be gained in the process. In the same way women during this stage in their lives should avoid losing large amounts of weight.
Drastic weight loss or becoming very thin during menopause can result in increased risks of developing osteoporosis later on. Remaining active may help in increasing metabolism and burn some of the fats in the body during or after menopause.
One-third of women ages 40 to 55 said in a survey that they use natural dietary supplements to relieve symptoms of menopause, according to a story in Nutritional Outlook magazine.
Also in the survey, many of the women said they would prefer if their health care professionals would discuss natural remedies to address certain symptoms.
A study from the Council for Responsible Nutrition found 79 percent of physicians and 82 percent of nurses said they recommend dietary supplements to their patients. Among physicians, 91 percent of obstetrician/gynecologists said they were likely to recommend supplements.
Many women seek alternative treatment options
One-third of women ages 40 to 55 said in a survey that they use natural dietary supplements to relieve symptoms of menopause, according to a story in Nutritional Outlook magazine.
Also in the survey, many of the women said they would prefer if their health care professionals would discuss natural remedies to address certain symptoms.
A study from the Council for Responsible Nutrition found 79 percent of physicians and 82 percent of nurses said they recommend dietary supplements to their patients. Among physicians, 91 percent of obstetrician/gynecologists said they were likely to recommend supplements.
“These symptoms are the same as human influenza viruses. To diagnose swine influenza A infection, a respiratory specimen would need to be collected and sent to CDC for laboratory testing. “
What Is Swine Flu?
Swine influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. Pigs can be infected by avian influenza and human influenza viruses as well as swine influnza viruses.
When influenza viruses from different species infect pigs, the viruses can reassort, or swap genes, and new viruses that are a mixture of swine, human and/or avian influenza can emerge. Over the years variations of swine flu have emerged.
At this time, there are four main influenza type A virus subtypes that have been isolated in pigs. They are H1N1, H1N2, H3N2, and H3N1. However, the most recent isolated influenza viruses from pigs have been H1N1 viruses. This is not the same as the human H1N1 viruses, and vaccines for the human seasonal flu will not provide any protection from H1N1 swine flu viruses.
How Is It Spread
First, human infections with swine flu occur in persons with direct exposure to pigs. The virus can then spread from person-to-person in the same way as the seasonal flu
Many people become infected by person-to-person transmission through coughing or sneezing, or by touching something with the flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.
More recent illnesses (and the reported death of one individual in Texas) suggest that a pattern of more severe illness associated with this virus may be emerging in the U.S.
Steps Your Can TakeTo Help Prevent Infection
It is very important to emphasize the importance of washing hands frequently throughout the day. Also, It is key to stay in good health. Get plenty of sleep, be aware of your stress level, stay physically active, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious foods. All of these are factors of a healthy immune system.
When considering a healthy diet remember to avoid foods that contain high levels of sugar, highly refined carbohydrates, starch vegetables, and all highly processed vegetable oils such as corn, canola, and soy. Obviously, you should avoid hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated oils.
Optimum immune function should be priority. Consider the following protocol to help maintain a healthy immune system:
Focus on your Immune system is key … # 1…
Supplements that interfere with virus’s, bacteria, and fungus…
Vitamin D is also important in maintaining a healthy immune system. If you or your patients are not already taking Bio-D-Mulsion Forte®, you should consider starting now. It is recommended to get 4000 IU of vitamin D per day. That is just 2 drops of Bio-D-Mulsion Forte® each day!
Good digestion is also very supportive in optimal immune function. To maintain good bowel flora consider BioDoph-7 Plus® (2 to 3 capsules 2 times per day) and as a form of hydrochloric acid support and enzymes, take Hydro-Zyme™ (2 to 3 tablets per meal).
Interim Guidance for Clinicians and Conscuious people:
Consider the possibility of swine influenza virus infections in patients presenting respiratory illness. Signs and symptoms of swine flu include but are not limited to:
These symptoms are the same as human influenza viruses. To diagnose swine influenza A infection, a respiratory specimen would need to be collected and sent to CDC for laboratory testing.
For more interim guidance for clinicians and public health professionals please visit:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Dr Joseph Zdanowski 201.945.1177
we reviewed metformin-as-primary-prevention-of-obesity-diabetes-and-the-other-major-common-degenerative-diseases-of-aging on 3 March 2008, and have regularly posted updates on why it should be used preventitively instead of waiting perversely and negligently till so much damage is done that diabetes – or its myriad complications- finally present clinically..
Now a coalition in Atlanta Georgia has published a detailed evaluation of why at least 24 million Americans with prediabetes by strict criteria should be on preventative metformin. And that 1 in 12 adults are only the tip of the iceberg of people at risk, the over 50% who are now at risk overweight (BMI > 25kg/sqm) let alone obese (BMI > 27kg), if they dont already have either raised bloodpressure, lipidemia, vascular disease, or raised fasting glucose/ insulin or impaired glucose tolerance ie bloodsugar after a meal…
Since metformin is the only drug proven in 20year randomized controlled trial (UKPDS) in new older diabetics to reduce all-cause morbidity and deaths by a third, and in 4 major prevention trials (China, USA, India, Greece) to reduce new diabetes by between 30% and 80%)- without the slightest increase in serious risks - it has long been clear that it is negligent not to prescribe it with appropriate instruction about dose titration from the outset, (and with other appropriate supplements- fish oil, vitamins, minerals, and other natural biologicals -like appropriate HRT and CoQ10, carnitine etc, and herbs) - to reduce all complications and motivate, energize the patient better to comply with diet and lifestyle advice. .
Take a minute to get to know Kenneth Raskin, M.D. of BodyLogicMD of Milwaukee!
Dr. Raskin’s advice: “The way most Americans eat is killing our population. We weren’t designed to eat like this – continuing down this path, inevitably leads to disease and ailment. Being proactive about our health will lead to a lower risk of health complications later on in life.”
I made the decision to partner with BodyLogicMD in order to bridge the gap between traditional medicine and wellness. As a former OB/GYN, I’ve seen too many women suffer for too long, without finding any relief. Women experiencing perimenopause and menopause complained of symptoms such as hot flashes, fatigue, irritability, weight gain, low libido and depression – all of which traditional medicine failed to abate. As a part of the BodyLogicMD network, I’m now able to offer my patients natural alternative solutions, such as bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) to correct the underlying causes of hormonal imbalance. With the help of BHRT and a multi-faceted treament plan that incorporates fitness, nutrition and stress reduction, my patients have opportunity to achieve optimum health.
Read more about Dr. Raskin
… Waking up to find your dog gazing at you.
Giving without expectation of repayment and watching the universe give back to you with compound interest.
Watching a child’s tears burst into laughter.
Finishing the workout you thought it was impossible to finish.
Reading an old book as if for the first time.
Accepting that nothing is easy as long as you keep putting it off.
Giving in to your purpose.
Ice cream at 3 a.m.
Breakfast for dinner.
Realizing there’s nowhere else you’d rather be than right here, right now. And despite whatever challenges you’re facing, there’s no one else you’d rather be than you.
Waiting patiently to act on something and watching how easy it is to do it when the right time appears.
Becoming aware of everything you have to be thankful for and saying out loud “Thank you, thank you, thank you!”
What about you? What’s on your “Nothing Better Than” list?
Share your thoughts below.
Yesterday I met with a Wellness Coach and it was one of the best things I’ve done for myself in a while. I went in knowing that she could probably help me with the challenges of “menopause symptoms,” but I was pleasantly surprised to learn she will address the “whole me.” Everything from nutrition & exercise to time management to how I manage stress and how much fun I have. The goal is to create a more well-balance me, to make sure I take care of the areas that are neglected so that I can live a vibrant and long life.
All this time, I thought I was eating well. Wrong. My coach explained how that oatmeal every morning and garden salads for lunch could be part of my problem–it all has to do with insulin resistance. Turns out that oatmeal is likely causing an early insulin spike in my system which my body can’t handle. Here’s what an article from Women to Women, an online goldmine of info, has to say.
Of special concern to women is how insulin resistance disrupts fat metabolism. When the cells won’t absorb the extra glucose, the liver has to convert it into fat. Fat cells are loaded with glucose receptors, so this is a vicious cycle. Ironically, while the insulin-resistant woman is gaining weight, her cells are actually “starved” for glucose, so she feels exhausted and tends to eat carbohydrate-heavy foods in search of energy.
These extra fat cells are also little estrogen factories. So weight gain contributes to the estrogen dominance that causes so many symptoms during the early stages of perimenopause.
In addition, women approaching menopause are particularly prone to becoming insulin resistant due to metabolic changes related to fluctuations in adrenal and thyroid secretions. In fact, the decrease of certain hormones, like estradiol, may trigger a resistance to insulin in patients who never experienced it before. Certain blood pressure medications can mask symptoms without treating the problem. Frequently, women unwittingly make their symptoms worse by fighting weight gain with low-fat, high-carbohydrate diets. More on insulin resistance.
So what do I do? Ditch the oatmeal in the morning, eat it for dinner, and load up on protein for breakfast. We should be eating 20 grams of protein in the mornings to get us going. Things like deli meat, cheese and eggs, saving the whole grains for my evening meal. I am a salad-eater for lunch, so I need to make sure I have plenty of protein there, too. Add some lean meat to the salad and I’ve got a more balanced meal. Bottom line, a few changes in my diet may just take care of some of my gripes. No pills, no complicated diets, just a better balance.
Another goal for this week is to do a better job with time management. That’s my other weak area. I will work harder at ordering my day and prioritizing more so I won’t let the hours slip away trying to do too many things. Quiet time first, then breakfast, then exercise, then the other things on my list. I have a feeling I’m going to have to start getting up earlier as well. Uh oh, I am NOT a morning person.
I have another appointment next week with my coach where we’ll set more goals and take a hard look at where I need to make improvements. Good to be accountable to someone who is so kind, encouraging and smart. I highly recommend Lucinda–go for a free session if nothing else and you’ll come away knowing more about yourself and setting attainable goals that will make you feel better, too!
Click here to meet Lucinda of Dream Lifestyles Coaching
Consider two hypothetical individuals. They are the same age, live in the same polluted city, and work at the same type of stressful job. This is where the similarities end.
Person A comes down with multiple infections over the course of each year, including colds and the flu. He also has chemical sensitivities and allergies, and as he gets older he starts to develop degenerative diseases, such as arthritis. Person A’s doctor tells him that the different diseases and conditions he has are separate, unrelated, and unavoidable disorders, all of “unknown etiology.” Person B, though, hardly ever gets sick, and what’s more, with the advancing years he’s still energetic and disease-free.
What’s the difference between the two of them? B is making an effort to feed his immune system, and A isn’t. Further, A is actually poisoning his immune system, through the foods he consumes and even his mode of interacting with the world.
Let’s take a look at how each of these people live. Person A, a man living the average American lifestyle, believes it’s okay to do anything—in moderation. So in moderation he smokes; drinks alcohol; drinks coffee, colas, and other beverages laced with sugar or artificial sweeteners; eats the average American diet of denatured, refined foods; and eats hamburgers, chicken, and that favorite American vegetable, French fries. Once in awhile he has an iceberg lettuce salad or a bit of fruit. He’s about 10 percent over his ideal body weight but doesn’t think much of it because most of the people he knows are too.
Person A does exercise—in moderation. So on weekends, if it’s sunny, he’ll play a game of tennis. He’ll take a walk—maybe once a season. Otherwise, he’s sedentary, sitting at a desk or dining table, on a couch in front of a TV, or in his car.
When he’s in his car going to work, sometimes people do things to make Person A mad. Other drivers will cut him off, and person A will yell and scream at them, sure that they have a personal vendetta against him and that he is honor-bound to retaliate. Sometimes at work Person A’s boss will make him mad. Then, he can’t yell and scream, but he can hold his anger in, and keep it there all day. He seems to be used to the chronic surge of anger-induced hormones, such as adrenaline, that are coursing through his bloodstream all day at work. At home, he hardly notices the anger, because he has the distractions of the TV, the telephone, the radio, the computer, and various interactions with his family, which, because of the pace of everyone’s life these days, always seem to be rushed.
Person B has a totally different approach to life. For instance, B follows the same route to work as A, so people cut him off too, but B just figures that many of these people don’t mean to cut him off, or if they do, so what? B listens to books on tape in his car, so he doesn’t feel that his commute is wasted time. At work, when B’s boss is unfair with him, he tries to talk to the boss calmly about the problem right away. If this is impossible, the situation is just not that big a deal to B as it is to A. Maybe that’s because B knows he’ll be doing something relaxing and meaningful at the end of the day, such as riding his bike through the park, where he’ll be able to think things through and enjoy being out in nature. B tries to spend some introspection time each day; he finds it helps him maintain his generally positive attitude. He also tries to spend some relaxed “downtime” with his family daily. He and his family discovered a long time ago that it’s not necessary to shop as much as everyone thinks it is, and that if you shop less, life becomes less frantic.
There’s a tremendous difference in the way A and B eat. B has done extensive reading about how antioxidants promote immune fitness, and he puts what he’s learned to use every day in the kitchen. He eats many servings of organic vegetables—steamed, raw, or juiced—daily, and many servings of organic fruit—raw or juiced—as well. The juice portion of this intake averages three to four glasses. B also eats whole grains, such as kamut, quinoa, and barley, because he knows that these all contain enzymes that are catalysts, acting like spark plugs to enhance metabolic activity. B’s reading has helped him understand that since aging is characterized by generally slowed metabolism throughout the body, anything he can do to promote metabolic activity is going to help him stay young.
B understands the value of phytochemicals, the plant-based substances that help us fight disease, so his diet is rich in phytochemical-rich foods like blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, watermelon, peaches, plums, sea vegetables, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, alfalfa sprouts, tomatoes, and soy foods. He consumes about 60 grams of fiber a day from a variety of sources. He eats about three to five servings of grains a day, two to three servings of legumes, a serving of nuts, and one of seeds. He also gets acidophilus from nondairy yogurt. B avoids dairy products and does not eat meat. He also avoids sugar; refined carbohydrates, such as white-flour-based baked goods; caffeine; and alcohol. His body, like his diet, is on the lean side.
Although he knows that food is the best source of nutrients, B also takes supplements. He’s periodically consulted with his health practitioner about an immune-enhancing supplementation plan based on his individual needs, and following are some of the things he’s taken on a daily basis at different times:
This list of antioxidant supplements—although far from complete–is long, and in no way am I recommending that everyone should be taking all of these things every day. The point is that a person who is diligent about his or her immune wellness might want to be taking some of these supplements, after exploring with his health practitioner how they might help.
Let’s look a little further into how B lives. He exercises aerobically 45 minutes to an hour each day, and he lifts weights as well. The many benefits of exercise, he knows, include its facilitating the circulation of lymphatic fluid. Also, he’s made an effort to keep his home environment as clean as possible, by getting rid of shag carpeting, sealing or shellacking any surfaces that were outgassing fumes, installing a water filter, getting an air filter, and keeping street-soiled shoes from his floors (see next chapter, on detoxification). And it goes without saying that he would never smoke.
The outcome of B’s lifestyle is that when his body is threatened by a virus, his immune system will be equipped with a full armamentarium of neutrophils, basophils, natural killer cells, and everything else necessary to neutralize it. He’ll be able to stay healthy in many situations in which A will get sick, because he’s nurtured his immune system all along. This is not to imply that this tale of two immune systems has to end sadly for A. No matter what stage of life he’s in, it’s not too late for him to start turning things around by detoxifying and fortifying his system. GARY NULL 1999 (C) www.garynull.com
Kitchen countertops are crafted from a variety of materials, which are either natural or man-made. Solid surface countertops are crafted from man-made materials, which include different types of plastic and mixtures of polymeric resins and crystals of natural stones (quartz, granite, etc.) Solid surface countertops are beautiful and durable, and they do not require any complicated care.
There is a striking variety of shapes and colors for solid surface counters, and this is just one reason why they outsell all other countertops. They are long-lived and undemanding in terms of maintenance. Solid surface countertops are easily adjusted to various kitchen layouts. Many home owners prefer to have them custom-crafted, which is but the only effective way of getting your most desired type of counter.
Solid surface countertops, though durable, may crack if mishandled. This may happen due to physical pressure or drastic temperature fluctuations. Prolonged exposure to water may cause them to warp. Water can pose serious trouble for counters with a wooden base, which can cause the plastic sheets to come apart and the wooden base to rot.
I know the risks. I am doing it anyway. Starting today.
Apprehensive? Yes. Humbled? Yes. But resigned that menopause is bigger than I am, and it’s not fair to my family, or to myself, for me to miss this part of my life ’cause I am half crazy.
The weird part is, I found myself really excited last night. I had a hard time going to sleep. You know that feeling before a big party? Where you lay awake and think about the lovely moments that might happen, the yumminess that is coming up next?
That’s how I felt. Except the party is my life.
Will let you know how it goes.
1. Are you getting enough sleep?
Sleep provides resiliency; according to the National Sleep Foundation, as we sleep, our blood pressure drops and plateaus, blood-flow to our relaxed muscles increases, tissues grow and repair themselves and our energy is revitalized and restored – all within a good night’s sleep. Experts say that you should get anywhere between 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Medical Director Dr. Lawrence Epstein offers a unique way to gauge just how much sleep your body needs: during your next vacation, Epstein suggests going to bed at the same time every night and sleeping in – after a few days, you should start waking up at the same time and have a better idea of how much sleep your body demands.
2. Drink plenty of water!
Next to oxygen, water is the most vital element for survival. Humans can go nearly two months without food, but could only last a few days without water. In fact, without water – we couldn’t breathe! Water moistens the lungs in order to efficiently take in oxygen and excrete carbon dioxide – it’s possible to lose 8oz of fluids each day, just from exhaling! The daily minimum for adults is eight to ten 8oz glasses per day. Hydration is an essential process for survival. Dehydration can lead to heartburn, stomach ache, recurring or chronic pain, depression and headaches – it turns out that over 70% of all headaches are associated with dehydration.
3. Avoid harmful toxins such as caffeine, tobacco and alcohol.
I’m sure you’ve heard that a glass of wine a day can actually improve your cardiovascular health. However, too much alcohol or any other toxin for that matter can rapidly deteriorate the body’s organs and organ systems. When you use tobacco or consume other toxic products such as those containing caffeine and/or alcohol, you are actually restricting the blood flow throughout your body. Leading psychiatrists have found that this process takes quite a toll on the brain among other vital organs and can often lead to the onset of psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety and in seniors, senility.
4. Eat your vegetables!
The fountain of youth is in your refrigerator! Vegetables are a great source of essential vitamins and nutrients necessary to live a long and healthy life. Studies have revealed that vegetables such as garlic and celery can lower cholesterol. Some vegetables like Broccoli and cauliflower help boost the metabolism and help maintain muscle mass. Vegetables provide naturally occurring antioxidants that help purify and rid the human body of threatening toxins. Artichokes have been found to improve the function of the liver by aiding in detoxification. In addition to promoting brain activity, asparagus is a proven aphrodisiac and in oriental tradition, it was actually used to treat sexual dysfunction in men.
5. Don’t forget to floss!
Your smile is important. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), flossing is the most effective preventative measure on can take to improve their smile, next to brushing. Flossing removes the bacteria that remain in the crevices of our teeth and gums after brushing. The ADA shares that brushing without flossing is like washing only 65% of your body – pretty gross. Plaque builds up and eventually hardens into tarter. Overtime however, plaque accumulates dangerous bacteria and can lead to the condition known as gingivitis. If neglected, gingivitis can manifest itself into a more serious condition known as periodontal disease – a condition where toxins seep beneath the gums and begin wearing away at the bones and skeletal structures, leading to bone loss and loose and/or missing teeth. By flossing, you’re taking the first step to preventing the inflammation of the gums and in turn reducing your risk of inflammatory-related disease.
6. Substitute wheat for white.
I’m sure you’ve heard that whole wheat is better than bleached white bread, but why exactly? Both are made from wheat berries which have three nutrient-rich layers: the bran (the outer layers), the germ (the center) and the endosperm (the starchy layer between the two). While whole wheat is processed to include the bran, the germ and the endosperm, white flour only uses the endosperm. According to research reported by the University of Washington in the April 2, 2003 issue of The Journal of the American Medical Association, “simply switching from white to whole wheat bread can lower risk of heart disease by 20%. Don’t be fooled by imitation pseudo-wheat bread – sure white bread is white because it’s bleached, but some white breads have a darker color to them because of caramel that is added in processing. Read the label – if the first ingredient on the label says “whole wheat” or “whole grain” – you’re in good shape – if any other ingredient is listed first, chances are it’s not really whole wheat.
7. Get your antioxidants!
Recently, the antioxidant market is booming and with good reason. Anti-aging experts keep finding break-through antioxidants, varied sources and a slew of uses for the nutrients. Very simply, an antioxidant is a molecule that can prevent oxidative damage to other molecules in the body – this process promotes longevity. Cardiovascular disease, diabetes and many forms of tissue and blood cancers are all attributed to the free radicals of oxidative damage. Some common antioxidants include Vitamin A, C and E as well as selenium. Antioxidants are found in a variety of beans, grains, fruits and vegetables. In addition to incorporating antioxidants into your diet, it would be wise to avoid exposure to oxidative stress such as smoking and sunburn.
8. Get fit!
Life can get a little hectic sometimes – by the time we get home and hit the couch, we’re down for the count. Physical activity is one the best things you can do for your body. A sedentary lifestyle can often lead to conditions such as obesity, atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, hypertension, some forms of cancer and osteoporosis. Regular exercise also helps the body recover from injury at a faster rate and improves the immune system, making you less susceptible to pathogens. Fitness experts say that it would be wise to customize a workout regime tailored to the individual’s personal needs and capabilities. The routine should last about 30 min. and you shouldn’t exert yourself beyond the point of being able to hold a conversation. Remember, working out regularly doesn’t mean that you can eat whatever you want. Getting fit means eating the right foods to support a high-protein diet, low in carbohydrates and sugars.
9. Connect with people!
Why is it that we don’t even know our own next-door neighbor’s first name? Heaven forbid we both go out to check our mail at the same time – arbitrarily fumbling through our mail, avoiding eye contact at all costs as if a little social interaction would be the death of us. It’s amazing how much a little conversation can add to your day. A simple “how are you?” or “how was your weekend?” really goes a long way, for both parties. We’re so informal these days that when someone actually goes out of their way to say “hello”, we think of it as being peculiar. It’s pretty unfortunate that we find peculiarity in what was once a common form of respect. Just try it sometime – let’s say you’re in the elevator with a complete stranger – ask them how there day is going, but don’t stop there. Try to work up a conversation and see where it takes you and how you feel afterwards. Humans did not evolve as solitary creatures; we need interaction and connections in order to keep our sanity!
10. Balance your hormones!
As we age, our hormone levels naturally decline. Millions of men and women suffer from hormonal imbalance resulting from menopause, andropause, thyroid disorder and adrenal fatigue. The signs of hormone imbalance are also connected to your stress levels, poor nutrition, lack of exercise and the environmental toxins your body is exposed to on a daily basis. Hormonal imbalances are the root of many chronic health problems and can increase your risk of serious disease. In women, the symptoms often first appear in perimenopause or menopause, when estrogen, progesterone and testosterone production begins to diminish.
The good news is that hormone losses and imbalances are correctible. Through the use of bioidentical hormones, women can not only be relieved of the symptoms, but also effectively protect themselves against osteoporosis and heart disease. And through supervised treatment, natural hormone replacement therapy can make women feel healthier, and younger than they have in years.
I have come into knowledge of true identity, of oneness with the all-pervading wisdom and power, and this makes it possible for laws higher than the ordinary mind knows of to be revealed NOW.
We are Love, Truth and Life, and we are here to embody this true nature of Being. We are then one with the universal, holographic principle of creativity operating throughout the whole Cosmos. We are in position to let the magical, natural laws of Being operate through us in the fulfillment of Being’s grand purposes.
Do you use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)? Do you tell your doctor what you are using? If not, you could be at risk for dangerous interactions!
What exactly is complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)?
Complementary is defined as a treatment used in addition to conventional medicine.
Alternative is defined as a treatment used instead of conventional medicine.
What are some examples of CAM?
Multiple studies have shown that the most common types of CAM used in the United States involve taking a vitamin, dietary supplement, or an herb (Cheung, Wyman, Halcon, 2007, p. 1003).
Who uses CAM?!
Lots of people! Some studies have indicated that as many as 75% of people have used some form of CAM over the last year.
What’s the big deal? If this is all natural stuff, how could this hurt me?
Great question! Natural supplements and medicines definitely have their place in keeping us healthy and treating our ailments. BUT many patients don’t realize that their CAM use is significant to their conventional treatment they receive from their doctor, and unfortunately many doctors don’t think to ask what non-prescription items their patients are taking (Cheung, Wyman, & Halcon, 2007, p. 115).
Here are just a few examples of how taking natural products in conjunction with prescription treatment can hurt you:
How can I find out if the medicines I take can be taken with my natural supplements, vitamins, herbs, and treatments?
Talk to your doctor! Every time you go to your doctor, you should update him/her on the substances that you are taking into your body (including what you rub onto your skin!). Unfortunately not all conventional doctors are aware of possible interactions, so you should also tell your pharmacist when you go to fill a prescription.
You can also do some homework yourself. Check out these great (and reputable!) sources of information about natural medicine alternatives and potential interactions with conventional drugs:
Stay safe! Talk to your doctor and pharmacist and do your homework!
References
Cheung, C., Wyman, J., & Halcon, L. (2007, November). Use of complementary and alternative therapies in community-dwelling older adults. Journal of Alternative & Complementary Medicine, 13(9), 997-1006. Retrieved May 18, 2009, doi:10.1089/acm.2007.0527
Jonas, W. (2001, September). Advising patients on the use of complementary and alternative medicine. Applied Psychophysiology & Biofeedback, 26(3), 205-214. Retrieved June 1, 2009, from Academic Search Premier database.
Lindquist, R., Tracy, M., Savik, K., & Watanuki, S. (2005, April). Regional use of complementary and alternative therapies by critical care nurses. Critical Care Nurse, 25(2), 63-75. Retrieved May 18, 2009, from Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition database.
Vapiwala, N., Mick, R., Hampshire, M., Metz, J., & Denittis, A. (2006, November). Patient initation of complementary and alternative medical therapies (CAM) following cancer diagnosis. Cancer Journal, 12 (6), 467-474. Retrieved May 14, 2009, from Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition database.
I have been told by New Generation Publishing that my novel, Mary’s Mail, the Menopause Period, should be available by early October so here is a little preview:
Eastbourne
To: Em
From: Mary
18 April 2009
Subject: My big knickers
Oh, the embarrassment. It was the most embarrassing moment of my life. I was going to tell Celia about it too, but I thought, no, Celia’s so prim and proper about certain things, she might think me vulgar. Perhaps I am a little vulgar sometimes, but we all need a little vulgarity now and again, don’t we, Em? How I’m going to get over this I really don’t know, my stomach turns somersaults every time I think of it.
Where are my friends when I need them? It’s so difficult now without you or Celia to pop into to tell my troubles to, or, as in this case, my humiliation. New neighbours each side and none of them any use to me. The old couple that bought your house must have hibernated. I haven’t seen hide nor hair of them for weeks. Oh, you don’t think something awful has happened, do you? Perhaps I should pop round, make sure they’re still alive. I mean they are quite elderly, aren’t they?
And then there are the people who moved into Celia’s house. I don’t know what Celia and Paul were thinking, selling to those people. There’s her, Panda, she seems to be called, heaven knows why. Perhaps because he gives her a black eye every so often, he looks the type who might. Anyway, she has tattoos on her arms and legs, and skirts up to her bum; it’s disgusting. Oh dear, I’m beginning to sound like Celia, I must be more careful. Can you catch prim and properness, I wonder? Or is it something that comes with old age? I hope not. Can you imagine me changing into Celia? The thought of it!
And then there’s him, that Panda’s husband. Well, I suppose he’s her husband, you never can tell these days. Rog, his name seems to be, rhymes with dog, strange name. Well, he looks fine when he goes out to work in the morning, dressed in a suit, must work in some kind of office, but when he comes home, it’s suit off, jeans on and he’s out in the garden strumming away on a guitar and when he’s not doing that he’s inside playing music. How on earth their baby sleeps, I don’t know. He too has tattoos all up his arms. Why do they have to tattoo themselves to that extent? Do they think it looks attractive? Far from it in my opinion. I wonder what Geoffrey would say if I came home with a tattoo on my bum. You have to admit there’d be plenty of room for a big one on my backside.
Anyway, back to my predicament. It was awful. I went to my art class Monday evening as usual. I had on my lilac skirt and pink blouse with little flowers on it. Do you remember? I bought it in M & S when we went into town just before you moved. Well, I must have been getting a little over-enthusiastic with the paint and I splashed some on my blouse. I should have been wearing my protective over-top, (which is really just an old shirt of Geoffrey’s), but had forgotten to take it, so I went into the ladies to wash it off.
I took off the blouse, sponged the paint out of it, and decided I might as well go to the loo whilst I was there. Going into the cubicle, I hung my blouse on the door and sat myself down. There I was, in full wee, when the door was pulled open. I’d forgotten to lock it and, unfortunately, it wasn’t one that pushed inwards, which I could have stopped with my foot, it opened outwards. It was such a shock, Em. There I was, sitting in my bra, blubber hanging in folds around my middle, skirt hauled up, knickers round my knees and there before me, looking at all this, was Charlie Hughes from my art class. I sat there, toilet paper in hand ready to wipe, feeling my face flush redder and redder, with a shocked looking Charlie standing in front of me.
I don’t know who was more embarrassed, poor Charlie or me. Apparently the ‘gents’ was out of order and there was a sign on the door to tell the men to use the ‘ladies’. He stood there for what seemed like ages, but was probably only a few seconds, obviously not knowing what to say or do, then, gathering himself together, he said, “I’m sorry. I’m so sorry,” and closed the door.
I jumped up and put the bolt across, a bit late I know, but at that moment I just wanted to bolt out the whole world. I felt I would never be able to step out of that cubicle again. I sat back down for quite some minutes having a terrible hot flush. You know what it’s like when you’re stressed, the hot flushes seem so much worse. Well this was one of those; my whole body was covered in sweat. It was running down my forehead into my eyes. I was in such a state. After a while I managed to calm down and the flush receded. I don’t know how long I’d been in there. I pulled up my knickers and pulled the blouse on to my hot sticky body. Then I stood there, not knowing what to do.
How could I just walk back in that room as if nothing had happened? Charlie had seen my big pink knickers, not sexy lacy ones, but comfortable BIG ones. He’d seen the fat bulging out from under my bra and hanging over the waist of my skirt, rolls of it. At that moment I felt huge. Well I suppose size twenty is quite huge and without clothes on, not a pretty sight. Fortunately, Geoffrey doesn’t seem to notice it, says the cuddlier I get, the warmer I keep him in bed. So sweet my Geoffrey.
Oh, before I forget Geoffrey says to say hello to Robin. He seems to be a bit lost since Robin and Paul have gone. Can’t have their get-togethers for man type gossip any more. He potters about the garden looking like a forlorn puppy, poor soul.
But to get back to the loo and Charlie. As I said, I stood in the cubicle undecided of what I should do. Fortunately for me, by the time I got up the courage to emerge, the lesson was just ending and I could hear people starting to leave, so I stayed in the safety of my cubicle for a while longer, to give Charlie the chance to leave as well. I really didn’t think I’d ever be able to face him again.
I don’t think Charlie actually used the toilet in the end. I never heard him anyway, unless he’s one of those people who pees quietly. I wish I was like that, but no, my pee likes to make itself heard. Full gush, thunderous ones, mine are, like a waterfall cascading into a river. Why on earth Charlie didn’t hear my full Niagara flow, I don’t know. Perhaps he’s a little deaf. It must be so nice to have delicate trickling pees that are almost silent. Anyway Charlie’s need for a pee was probably halted having been put off by the horrific sight he had just witnessed!
When I thought it was safe, I crept back into the art room, but to my dismay Charlie and a couple of the others were still there. They were talking and didn’t notice my return; so, keeping my head down, I picked up my pad and paints, snatched my coat from the hook and with a quick “goodbye everyone”, which came out more like a nervous squeak, I hurried from the college.
Oh, why does the college have steps? Fifteen steps in fact. I counted them as I tried to get down as quickly as I could without falling. As I got to the bottom I heard Charlie call my name, but by then I was going almost at a run and, as luck would have it, my bus came along, so to Charlie it could have looked as though I were running for the bus and not running in panic from him. How could I ignore him like that? I’m never that rude. Poor Charlie.
I sat on that bus with sweat pouring off me; dabbing at my face and neck with disintegrating tissues. Where does all this fluid come from? Why don’t menopausal women shrivel up from dehydration?
I can’t possibly go back, Em. How can I go back after the position Charlie’s seen me in? I mean just how far up my skirt could he have seen? I hate to think. Although on reflection, I don’t suppose he would have seen much, too much fat hiding my intimate bits.
I never did finish my wee, you know. It stopped very abruptly when the door opened and never continued. Of course I don’t mean I haven’t been able to go since, I was dying to go by the time I got home, but I certainly wouldn’t have been able to squeeze any out in that cubicle. Panic stricken pee, that’s what I had.
Now on to other gossip. Joe Trumble from across the road has been sent down again. Heaven knows what he’s been up to this time. Looks like his son Billy might be going the same way. How old must he be now? About twenty-three? Police were there the other day and took him away. He was home again later though; so don’t know what all that was about. No doubt I shall find out in time. You know me, always manage to sniff out the gossip.
Poor Rita, I do feel sorry for her having to struggle with two kids and her husband inside all the time. Always seems such a nice woman whenever I speak to her and that little Amy of hers is a cute little thing, she must be about ten by now. Just hope she doesn’t go the way of her dad and brother. It would be such a shame if she did.
Say hello to the kids. You’re lucky to still have kids at home. As you know I hardly ever see Lisa.
Mary
Daring deed of the day: Clip a banana skin to your hair, walk to the local shop and buy a pound of bananas. Do not remove the banana skin until you get back home.
France
To: Mary
From: Celia
20 April 2009
Subject: What a sight – bare ears!
I’m not sure that I like France, Mary. It’s not at all what I expected. I know I came out with Paul to look at the house before we moved over here, but the village looked quite pleasant then. Living here and visiting are two quite difference things.
I look ridiculous, Mary, quite ridiculous. Against my better judgement I went to the hair salon in the village. There are two hairdressers, a woman of about my age, rather snooty, in a French sort of way and a young girl; and do you know what? They couldn’t speak more than six words of English between them. It’s shameful, isn’t it? You’d think everyone would be taught English these days. Why should I have to learn a strange language? It’s quite unfair.
Well, as you can imagine, trying to explain how I wanted my hair done was a nightmare. They gave me a book of pictures, but most of them were quite outlandish, none of them the sort of style I would want on my head. In the end I explained in English and with hand actions, just how I wanted my hair done and the girl nodded and smiled, so I thought, success, she’s understood. How wrong I was.
Oh, Mary, you should see my hair. I shall have to hide inside for weeks. It’s hideous, it really is. I look dreadful. Paul says I look fine and doesn’t see what all the fuss is about, but he’s a man, what do they know? It’s so short. I didn’t realise she had cut so much off. I was concentrating on what the other hairdresser and her customer were saying, hoping to understand at least one word, but no, it was all total nonsense to me. And now look at me. Exposed ears, yes, exposed ears and you know how I like my ears covered, don’t you? But I couldn’t complain could I? How do you complain in French? It’s awful, simply awful.
I’m so isolated. The village consists of only three shops, a boulangerie, a very small general store and that dreadful hairdresser. Now how am I supposed to survive with just three shops? I’m really not sure village life suits me; I’m not the village type of person. You can understand that, can’t you? I need shops, lots of shops, huge department stores and little boutiques. I’ve told Paul I need to go shopping, but does he listen? No, he doesn’t. He doesn’t understand that a woman needs to shop. It’s part of our nature, isn’t it?
If only I could drive, I could take myself to Paris and have a wonderful time. Paul says he’ll take me, but when? He’s always so busy and it’s just not the same with a man trailing along asking how much longer you’re going to be, is it? I’ve told him. “Shopping is a serious business, Paul,” I’ve said. “It takes time; it’s not something that can be rushed.”
I’m going to go insane, quite insane, if I don’t get out and about soon. I need freedom. I’m trapped. That’s what I am, trapped.
Then there’s the house. Where on earth am I to find a cleaner? I miss Alice so much. She kept my house in Eastbourne spotless. Well you know that, of course you do, but now, what am I to do? Where do I find a cleaner such as her? Paul is most unsympathetic. He said I’ll just have to clean it myself until I find someone suitable. I mean, that’s not me, is it? I told him, yes I did. I said, “Paul, toilet brushes and dusters are just not me.”
I have no neighbours to speak of either; no-one lovely like you and Em. There’s a very strange man on one side who peers at me all the time. He seems a very odd character. I told Paul that I didn’t like him, but he said he hasn’t noticed anything strange about him and it’s just me being silly. I’m not silly, am I, Mary? Would you say I’m silly?
Paul said the house on the other side has just been bought, but he doesn’t know who by. I do hope they’re nice and can speak some English. Someone I could have a little chat with in English would make all the difference; it would make things so much easier for me, don’t you agree?
I must try to be happy here for Paul’s sake. He loves his job and he loves the country, but it’s so much easier for him. He speaks the language. It’s hard for me to mix with people when I can’t understand a word they say.
I need my friends. I need you and Em. I have the boys, of course, but you can’t have a good gossip with children, can you? What do you do in a village? Em seems to have settled into hers and made friends, but I suppose it’s easier when everyone talks English. I’ll never learn French, Mary. I’m English; it’s just not in me to speak anything else.
Celia
I hope I’m not tempting fate, but I’ve noticed a distinct and steady decrease in the number of hot flashes I have each day. It’s 7:40 and I’ve only had four today: one when I woke up, one about 2:30, one minor one around 4:30, and one around 5:15, and I’m inclined to discount the one at 4:30 because it was barely noticeable.
I wonder if my body is adjusting to it’s new low-hormone state. Wouldn’t that be nice?
Are you worried about fibroids? Fibroids, also called as leiomyomomas are the most common problem of woman’s reproductive health.
50-80% of women have uterine fibroids experiencing complications like bleeding, pelvic pressure and pain.
Usually, most of the fibroids are harmless, but some large fibroids can cause severe complications and also interferes with conception or pregnancy.
Fibroid tumors can range in sizes from few centimeters to more than 8 inches in length. Fibroids can tend to develop in clusters and they can form inside your uterus, in the uterine tissue or outside your uterus.
Majority of fibroids are benign tumors and don’t keep you at risk of cancer. Research found that one out of every four women has fibroids during their childbearing stage. They gradually tend to disappear after menopause.
The main cause of fibroids is still unknown, but they can be influenced by estrogen. High estrogen levels can keep you at greater risk of developing fibroids and when the estrogen levels stops, they also stop growing.
Recent studies conducted in US said that the growth of fibroids is nine times greater in dark complexion women when compared to fair complexion women. But, the exact reason behind this is unclear.
Obese women more than 70 kg are at high risk of developing fibroids because of high estrogen levels. Women who didn’t give birth to a child due to some genetic factors and women who smoke are at higher risk of uterine fibroids.
Usage of contraceptive pills, which contain higher estrogen levels, can keep you at high risk of fibroids.
Fibroids are of different sizes and categorized by where they develop inside the uterus.
Different fibroid types:
Intramural fibroids: This fibroid type grows in the walls of the uterus. These tumors are the most common types of fibroids.
Subserous fibroids: These fibroid types grow beyond the outer layer of the uterine wall. Sometimes, they can also grow on stalks, these fibroids are also called as pedunculated fibroids. These fibroid types can grow in larger sizes.
Submucous fibroids: These fibroids grow in the muscle below the inner lining of the uterus. They can grow in the uterus and can also on the stalks. If they are long enough, then they can hang through your cervix.
Cervical fibroids: These fibroids grow on the walls of the cervix and they are difficult to remove without damaging the surrounding area.
Fibroids in the uterus can grow as single or in groups. It can be a single type or a group of different types. Accurately the cause of fibroids is unknown, so there are no particular treatments for preventing it.
