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The Super Power Benefits of PROBIOTICS

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If you are in my Wellness Tribe as a Wellness Warrior, then you know that Probiotics are a MUST!

Why take probiotics? The friendly bacteria in our gut is a hot topic in the wellness world, but you may still be wondering exactly what these supplements can do for you.  The World Health Organization defines probiotics as, “live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host.” So what are the health benefits? How can probiotics support our health?  More and more, research is exploring how the bacteria in our gut can explain our moods, and how the health of our intestinal flora is connected to the quality of our digestion and immune system. Today, maintaining a proper balance of healthy gut flora can be difficult due to our exposure to antibiotics, chlorinated water, pesticides, chemicals used in food preservation, and chronic stress. If the delicate balance of our inner ecosystem is upset, opportunistic bad bacteria and organisms like yeast, fungus, and parasites are more likely to take up residence.  Balancing your intestinal flora is a powerful way to combat these threats and support your health. When we take probiotics, we help fight invaders, improve our nutrient absorption, increase our ability to detoxify, and reduce the negative effects of antibiotic use.

#1 Probiotics help fight invaders

Our gut is filled with hundreds of different species of good bacteria. A truly healthy gut will contain more good bacteria than cells in the entire body. This healthy gut flora is the first thing other organisms encounter in the digestive tube as they fight to protect their territory and prevent other organisms from taking hold. Another reason why you should take supportive probiotics  — they have important positive effects on immunity by helping the immune system fight invaders.

#2 Probiotics help Improve nutrient absorption

A healthy gut acts like a fermentation tank inside your body and it’s our intestinal flora that do the fermenting. Because they have different digestive systems from ours, beneficial bacteria can perform certain chemical tricks with food that our bodies can’t, alone.

One of their most important functions in the body is the production of crucial b-vitamins, specifically folate (B9), biotin (B7), and B12. These nutrients have to be pre-digested by bacteria before the body can absorb them. When we are not getting these nutrients, we can experience a variety of symptoms that seem to appear out of nowhere like low energy, brain fog and skin issues. Another simple reason why you should take probiotics is to ensure that you are getting all of the nutrients in your food that you need to thrive.

#3 Probiotics improve daily detoxification

The intestinal flora is arguably the largest detoxification component of the body and it’s something that can continually be replenished. In this sense, our flora serves as a satellite to our main elimination organ — the liver. To put it another way — if the gut didn’t have a well-balanced intestinal flora, the liver would have to work almost twice as hard.

Supporting our intestinal flora with supplemental probiotics can help to rid the body of toxins entering our air, food, and water. Probiotics, like lactobacillus, look promising in helping to detoxify heavy metals, and to prevent their absorption into the body. This is why probiotics are a key component of your path towards wellness!

#4 Probiotics improve symptoms during and after antibiotic usage

Antibiotics are a major destroyer of our bodies’ bacteria — bad and good. While our culture is beginning to become aware of the regular over-prescribing of antibiotics, children and adults are still regularly and frequently prescribed antibiotics for every kind of infection or potential infection.

Because this antibiotic regime starts early, far too many of us have always lived with compromised intestinal flora for years or even decades and have never been truly healthy.

Dr. Junger writes in Clean: The Revolutionary Program to Restore the Body’s Natural Ability to Heal Itself, “I see more and more of this in my practice every year. It is my experience that chronically ill people, who often present with an elusive diagnosis, have a long history of consuming antibiotics. The earlier they started, the more complicated their symptoms are later in their lives and the harder it is for doctors to find a diagnosis.”

Research suggests taking probiotics during antibiotic therapies is effective in preventing and treating antibiotic associated diarrhea as well as reducing the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

The Big Picture: Why Take Probiotics?

Our understanding of the bacteria in our gut and the environment they live in is still evolving. Our understanding of how to properly re-populate the gut with good bacteria is even less complete. So, why take probiotics?

Taking probiotics has shown promising evidence that they can be very beneficial for our health. Their support in reducing the toxins we inevitably encounter day to day, modulating the immune system, improving digestion and nutrient absorption, and their ability to decrease typical symptoms of antibiotics are a few benefits we don’t want you to miss out on.

Now Which Ones Do You Take? 

Just click on the links below to get directed right to Meg’s webstore at: www.wellconsulting.org, access code 7777

Hippocrates said, “All disease begins in the gut,” more than 2,000 years ago, but we’re only now coming to understand just how right he was.   Your DAILY probiotic supplement needs to have a significant strength or potency, for this you look at the culture count. The culture count refers to the total amount of live, friendly bacterial cultures in a single serving, also known as CFU’s.  At W.E.L.L. we believe you need at least 25 billion cultures (for children) and 50 billion cultures (for adults) to begin to make an impact on your health—often more, depending upon your age or health-related concern.  Research is showing that more is better, so keep an eye on the number of cultures or CFUs (colony forming units) for best results, and quality brands really make the commitment to ensuring you that you get what you are paying for, and what your body really needs. Total CFUs or culture count will often be determined at time of manufacture, but very few remain at full strength through their expiration date, again the right brands will make a HUGE difference.  Look for a high quality probiotic that displays potency on the label at time of expiration, not manufacture.

When choosing a probiotic it’s also important to pay attention to the number of strains, at least five different should be a part of your daily probiotic, but most of the brands above more like 10-15 strains, which will optimize their effect on you!   The strains, or specific types of bacteria, plus the culture count of each should be listed on the label. Over 1,000 strains of beneficial bacteria can be found in the human gut, so it makes sense to choose a probiotic supplement that reflects this natural diversity, and the more effective strains can be the merrier.

Wellness Fact & Tip: When you scan the label of a good probiotic you’ll see strains that begin with Ls and Bs, like Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria.  A good trick to differentiate these is that the L strains are more native to the little (small) intestine and the B strains are generally found in the big (large) intestine or colon. Look for lots of Ls and Bs because each person’s body utilizes certain bacterial strains better than others.

While probiotics are also utilized in the upper digestive tract, the majority of bacterial populations exist in the lower small and large intestines. So how do the good bacteria get all the way down there?  Probiotics must travel through the harsh stomach environment and be delivered to the intestines to colonize. Delayed-release capsules are engineered to remain intact through the stomach and begin dissolving in the intestine, where they are needed most.

 

Still wanting to know more about how probiotics will keep you on your path?   Connect with Meg at Whole Energy Lifestyle Living.

 

Garlic Oil for Ear Aches & Infections

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Garlic as a Natural Remedy

Garlic has been used as a natural remedy for illness for thousands of years. There are historical records of its use in Ancient Greece and Rome, and it was part of the legendary vinegar of the four thieves tincture that supposedly saved four thieves from death during the bubonic plague. There are almost 5,000 published studies that support garlic’s healing ability for everything from hypertension to hair loss and everything in between. The fastest and most effective way I use garlic for illness is mincing it up and drinking in water. It isn’t the most appetizing, but it works. I just mince one clove of garlic into tiny pieces and put in a small glass of water. I drink the water and just swallow the garlic pieces without chewing. Unfortunately, my kids aren’t a fan of taking garlic this way because of the strong taste and they have more trouble swallowing the pieces of garlic. Since the most common childhood infection is an ear infection, I’ve been using a traditional garlic oil remedy for years to help fight ear infections quickly.

Garlic Olive Oil for Ear Infection: Traditional Garlic Olive Oil is a remedy that has been used for dozens, if not hundreds of years for ear infections. Unlike many other conventional remedies, garlic can work with the body and provide relief quickly with long-lasting results. Troublesome ear aches and ear infections can usually be relieved in short order with home remedies which include garlic. Garlic has a natural antibiotic called allicin and it is an essential ingredient in some of the most effective home remedies for ear infections and ear aches. Garlic can also be used alone and it can be taken orally to speed the recovery from ear and other infections Antibiotics are often prescribed for ear infections, even though the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) has not recommended this as a general practice since 2004, and yet so many of my patients still tell me that this is the ONLY option they are given by their doctors. Many ear infections are caused by viruses, which are unaffected by antibiotics. Thousands of children unnecessarily get antibiotics each year for ear infections when the antibiotics are not even effective for most infections. This has potential long-lasting side effects as antibiotics can permanently alter gut bacteria and many types of bacteria are becoming antibiotic resistant due to overuse of these drugs. Additionally, research has shown that most children fight an ear infection on their own within 24-72 hours without the need for antibiotics or other intervention. That said, just hearing that your child will be better in 1-3 days is not comforting to a mother who is holding her toddler as he or she screams from the pain of an aching ear. Fortunately, there are remedies, like this garlic ear oil, that our grandmothers and great-grandmothers used to ease the pain of ear infection and speed the healing process.

Why it Works: Garlic is powerful on its own and olive oil is soothing to infection as well. Olive oil is often used as the base for healing salves and lotions because it contains potent polyphenols which reduce inflammation. Together, garlic and olive oil can help ease the pain of ear infection and reduce healing time.

Important Note: This remedy is very effective, but it is important to make sure that the ear drum has not ruptured before using this or any other remedy in the ear. I have an Otoscope on hand to check my child’s eardrum before using any remedy inside the ear canal. Typically, pain subsides if the ear drum bursts so the presence of pain can indicate that the ear drum is still intact, but I always like to check. If one of my children does ever experience a ruptured eardrum, I would definitely get him or her checked my a doctor, though often not much can be done besides keeping the ear dry and letting it heal naturally.

Meg’s Recommendation for YOU: There are a lot of recipes out there for you to make your own garlic oil. I like to stick to one that is made by medical professionals and one that is tested for quality and efficacy. You can get the one that my family and I use right at my webstore: http://www.npscript.com/wellconsulting/mullein-garlic-ear-oil/HP0142PAR#undefined1 This is almost “magical” how fast and quick it works! You can ease the pain and pressure of an ear infection with this synergistic blend of mullein (Verbascum densiflorum) and garlic infused oils. These oils used together kill pain and fight bacteria.

Adaptogens: Nature’s Miracle Anti-stress and Fatigue Fighters

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Ginseng

Stress and fatigue. Judging from the proliferation of coffee and cupcake shops popping up these days, clearly caffeine and sugar are what a lot of folks are using to try to fight back. The problem is, they don’t actually work. Sugar and caffeine do offer a quick lift, but the crash is never far behind – so it’s back to Starbucks to start the cycle again, turning your day into a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows. Fortunately, there are healthier ways to get through the day – and one of my favorites is with “adaptogens,” the special herbs that help your body adapt to stress and resist fatigue. Here’s my adaptogens-at-a-glance guide:

Adapta-what?

Adaptogens are a unique group of herbal ingredients used to improve the health of your adrenal system, the system that’s in charge of managing your body’s hormonal response to stress. They help strengthen the body’s response to stress and enhance its ability to cope with anxiety and fight fatigue – slowly and gently, without jolts or crashes. They’re called adaptogens because of their unique ability to “adapt” their function according to your body’s specific needs. Though the effects may initially be subtle and take time to make themselves felt, they’re real and undeniable.

Where have they been all my life?

Unlike big pharma drugs, adaptogens weren’t born yesterday. In fact, they’ve been used in Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, to boost energy and resilience in the face of stress. Recently, several studies have found evidence to support what those of us in the sustainable wellness field already knew – that adaptogens offer positive benefits —and are safe for long-term use. (Take that big pharma!)

How do adaptogens work?

Adaptogens work a bit like a thermostat. When the thermostat senses that the room temperature is too high it brings it down; when the temperature is too low it brings it up. Adaptogens can calm you down and boost your energy at the same time without over stimulating. They can normalize body imbalances. By supporting adrenal function, they counteract the adverse effects of stress.  They enable the body’s cells to access more energy; help cells eliminate toxic byproducts of the metabolic process and help the body to utilize oxygen more efficiently. In short, adaptogens are amazing!

 

Which adaptogens should I use?  Why Meg Recommends the ones below (Because they ROCK!)

I prefer a combination of herbs to really reap the benefits and address all areas of stress in the body and mind.  My go to blend is found in the HPA Adapt supplement at www.wellconsulting.org  Here is the direct link: http://www.npscript.com/wellconsulting/hpa-adapt/IT0098PAR    Below are the ingredients at the specific health benefits they offer.

Ashwaghanda: Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb historically used in Ayurveda to enhance well-being, support restful sleep, and reduce occasional anxiety.  A double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial (N =39) evaluated the adaptogenic effects of ashwagandha. Compared to placebo, the extract exerted an anti-fatigue effect that increased mental performance, particularly the ability to concentrate, and decreased cortisol response to stress in people with burnout.

Eleuthero: Eleuthero is an adaptogenic herb that helps reduce fatigue, supports attention and cognition, and helps the body cope during periods of stress.  Animal research has shown  that eleuthero supports healthy cortisol production under stress, though this has not yet been demonstrated in human clinical trials.

Holy Basil Leaf: A member of the mint family, holy basil enhances the body’s natural response to physical and emotional stress. Compounds isolated from the herb’s leaves were shown to normalize plasma cortisol levels in an animal model.  Another animal study found that extracts of holy basil decreased serum concentrations of cortisol. A clinical trial with 35 subjects demonstrated a decrease in stress and occasional anxiety after 60 days of supplementation with holy basil.  The participants also showed improved attention and an increased ability to adapt to change.

Maca Root: Preliminary human research suggests that maca may have a positive influence on mood, feelings of occasional anxiety, and libido.  This root is actually a natural way to boost those testosterone levels, and build muscle tone.   Research has also documented a positive effect of maca on cognitive function and occasional fatigue.

Rhodiola Root: Various extracts of Rhodiola have been shown in human clinical studies to reduce fatigue, while improving mood, attention, and cognitive function, particularly during times of stress. Possible mechanism of actions include interaction with the HPA-axis, protein kinases p-JNK, nitric oxide, and defense mechanism proteins.  A systematic review of 11 randomized clinical trials concluded that rhodiola may have beneficial effects on physical and mental performance.  Another preliminary human study suggests that rhodiola supports the body’s response to physical exercise and also improves the recovery process.

 

HPA Adapt:  A GAME Changer for your STRESS

HPA Adapt -Supporting the Stress Response System with Adaptogenic Herbs~   The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, or HPA axis, is the central part of the stress response system. It involves a complex set of interactions and feedback loops between the hypothalamus, the pituitary, and the adrenal glands. The HPA axis also plays a role in the regulation of other systems of the body, including the gastrointestinal, neurological, and immune systems. Therefore, supporting optimal HPA axis function is important to maintaining overall health and wellness. HPA Adapt combines five powerful adaptogenic herbs to help the body better respond to both mental and physical stressors. HPA Adapt: Is a non-stimulant formula.   This combination reduces mental stress and fatigue,   improves mood and calms anxiety, and supports cognitive function.  It is truly a WIN-WIN for your daily needs.  Order your bottle today and start the process of adapting to STRESS and helping your body to COPE with the STRESSES that encounter daily.  http://www.npscript.com/wellconsulting/hpa-adapt/IT0098PAR

 

 

Facts on Frankincense

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Frankincense essential oil has been used for 1000s of years for it’s therapeutic benefits. It has also been long used in Ayurvedic medicine. Derived from the resin of a tree known as Boswellia, Frankincense’s powerful health benefits can be found in the species carterii, frereana and sacra which are commonly found in Somalia where the best Frankincense is found.

Frankincense essential oil benefits

Frankincense has a warm, woodsy balsamic aroma. It’s main chemical compounds are a-pinene, limonene and a-thujene.

The health benefits of Frankincense essential oil are so numerous that it has come to be known as the King of Oils or Liquid Gold. The history & uses of Frankincense are well documented, both in ancient history and in our modern day.

You will find Frankincense mentioned in the Bible along side Myrrh and gold, and in fact was one of the gifts given to the Baby Jesus from the Magi/ Three Kings.  Frankincense was used by the Assyrians and Babylonians in ceremony and the Egyptians used Frankincense to beautify the skin.

Today Frankincense is used in everything from emotional wellness to smoothing wrinkles. It supports a healthy immune system, protecting us from seasonal threats. Frankincense supports oral health and soothes the digestive tract.

Frankincense is known to support healthy cellular function and when inhaled or diffused Frankincense promotes feelings of peace, relaxation and overall wellness.

The Boswellia tree is a very rugged tree, growing in very inhospitable conditions. It has not only adapted but it thrives, growing in hard rocky soil with very little water. The resin drops collected from these hearty trees are known as tears. boswellia

My brand of Frankincense can be applied topically without dilution. When applying to newborns consider diluting with a small amount of a quality carrier oil. Frankincense can be used aromatically in a cool mist diffuser. Never burn Frankincense as this will destroy its therapeutic properties.

Our Frankincense can also be taken internally. I daily apply a drop or two to my tongue and then press my tongue to the roof of my mouth. Some like to place a drop under their tongue. However you chose to use your Frankincense, make it a daily routine.

How to use Frankincense:

Oil Pulling:  Add a drop of Frankincense to your favorite pulling oil. Mine is extra virgin organic coconut oil.

Headaches: If you feel a migraine or headache coming your way, just add one drop and place it on your thumb.  Place your thumb to the roof of your mouth.  This is an incredible and “life-saving” way to stop migraines almost immediately.

Skin Care:  Add 10 drops of Frankincense to your favorite body oil or lotion for a smooth appearance.

After A Workout:  Apply Frankincense to sooth tired joints and muscles.

Afternoon Pick Me Up:  A drop of Frankincense and Peppermint in the palm of your hand inhaled through your nose will give you a nice boost of mental clarity.

Beautiful Skin: Frankincense may improve the appearance of fine lines and scarring, softening and smoothing.

Relaxation: Add a few drops of Frankincense to a warm bath or on the soles of your feel for pain or discomfort.

Healthy Cellular Function: 1-3 drops of Frankincense daily. Oil may be put into a gelatin capsule for easy and tasteless ingestion. The easiest way is under the tongue or on the roof of your mouth.

Mother & Child Bonding: Frankincense when applied to both to the newborn and the new mom can promote a healthy bonding experience, instilling feelings of warmth, calm and safety.

 

Want to know more about Frankincense oil or how to use it or where to get it?  You can visit www.wellconsulting.org or meet with Meg for an Essential Oil Wellness Session.  Add essential oils into your life now and you will be very grateful for the many benefits they bring!

Making Your Holiday Promises Count

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It’s that time of year … the marathon between Halloween and Christmas.

Take notice of the availability of holiday treats in all the places you go – dishes of candy at the office, gift-wrapped boxes of cookies, bottles of wine at parties and dinners out. Even in your own home, foods you don’t normally eat sneak into the fridge via well-meaning guests, gift baskets, etc.

Indeed, wining and dining and overindulging is expected this time of year, and even celebrated. For so many of us, the holiday season is ALL about food – from Halloween candy corn to Thanksgiving stuffing to champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries on New Year’s Eve. It’s an integral part of our family traditions! It triggers and accompanies all the high and low emotions that arise this time of year – like being around family, or not being around family, or feeling lonely or feeling celebratory, etc.

And of course it’s okay to eat what you want to eat and enjoy your particular familiar holiday treats (mine is my recipe for “Meg-Nog!”) within reason. But even the most steadfast among us typically come off this season with a physical and emotional hangover, and a New Year’s resolution to get back on track. There’s a reason most gym membership specials start on January 2nd!

Now, Close your eyes and imagine a holiday season in which you didn’t get OFF track.

Staying on Track

Imagine if you wrote out a plan for the month of December that outlined exactly how you wanted to live your life, treat yourself, and nourish your body during these hectic, emotional weeks. Imagine if you made and kept a few simple promises about your diet, your meditation routine, your sleep schedule, X number of yoga or exercise classes per week …

How do you think you would feel on January 2nd?

I can tell you, because I have done this myself. I have actually seen the other side of a holiday season that isn’t designed around dinners and indulgences. I can tell you from personal experience that reaching that goal on January 2nd, you feel high as a kite. I mean it!  Spiritually, physically, emotionally … there is no greater high on earth than the feeling of being able to trust yourself.

Holiday Food Promises

The trick is to make and keep promises to yourself. Look at my list of holiday party promises:

1) Drink three tall glasses of water 30 minutes before each party/meal

2) Limit of one alcoholic drink

3) Limit of one serving of simple carbohydrates (bread, rice, pasta, potatoes, sugar)

4) Have no desserts or keep it to only one bite of a dessert (trust me you will savor that one bite, and it will be just the right amount!)

5) Be in bed by 12:30, min eis actually 11:00pm, but that is just because my body NEEDS sleep

I double-dare you to choose one or all of the above promises for yourself! It takes commitment, and afterwards you’ll feel AMAZING, 100% guaranteed! Remember: It’s not about punishing yourself or playing victim to a strict set of rules. It’s about moderation, accountability, happiness and above all, authorship. You can even consciously decide to gain 5 pounds over the holidays and schedule a plan of action to undo the damage, if that’s what works for you. The real point is to connect with your heart, your deepest yearnings, YOUR highest ideals. Sounds awesome, right?

Amazingly, you can change your mind. You can learn how to control your thoughts, act in accordance with your beliefs, lose your vices, achieve your goals, and have the life you want. When you honor your word and actually DO the things you really want for yourself, you build a trust and a self-worth that moves mountains. Your dreams come true, literally. How is THAT for a holiday treat?

As always remember that Meg is here to support you on your personal quest towards wellness.  Keep fighting the WELLNESS REVOLUTION!

Essential Oils at Whole Energy Lifestyle Living

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At Whole Energy Lifestyle Living, essentials oils are part of our daily routine. They keep us calm, rejuvenated, and shining! In other words, they are… essential!

You may see them being used during your session or in Meg’s office. Don’t be shy, they are free for you to test. We also have several scents for sale. But first, what exactly are essential oils? Read our Essential Oils 101 to find out more.

What is aromatherapy?

The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy defines aromatherapy as the art and science of utilizing naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants {aka essential oils} to balance, harmonize and promote the health of body, mind and spirit.

What are essential oils?

Pure essential oils are extracted directly form different parts of plants {peels, rinds, flowers, leaves, stems, berries, resin, or roots}. For it to be considered essential, it must be extracted from the plant by physical means only such as distillation (using water or steam) and expression (cold pressing citrus peels).

What are the benefits of essential oils?

The olfactory system is our sense of smell, which is an incredibly important factor when it comes to our moods. Studies link aromatherapy to improved mood, relaxation, stress and anxiety relief, better balance and well-being, and reduction in headaches and body aches and sinus/chest conditions to name a few.

The olfactory system is connected to many body systems. When we inhale airborne molecules through the nose, they immediately interact with the brain, specifically a variety of receptor sites in the limbic system, which is considered the ’emotional brain.’ The limbic system is directly connected to the parts of the brain that control heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, memory, stress levels, and hormone balance. Furthermore, if we inhale through our mouth, odor molecules immediately pass through our lungs having an impact on the respiratory system.

So, by breathing in beautifully smelling essential oils, they affect the body on an physical and emotional level.

How can I integrate them into my life?

There are many ways to easily integrate essential oils into your life. At W.E.L.L. we sell the doTerra line in over 15 scents as well as beautiful diffusers. You will see diffusers on around the office for our patients to enjoy during their visits. Some of our favorites are Eucalyptus, Bergamot, Grapefruit, Peppermint, and blends such as Breathe, Elevation, and On Guard.

How do I use them?

  • Mix a few drops in water and place in a diffuser.
  • Put them in your hot bath water.
  • Soak a washcloth in warm water with a few drops of oil.
  • Add a few drops to your lotion.
  • Place on your temples and all the spots you put perfume like neck and wrists.

Next time you’re in, make sure you give our essential oil selection a try or meet with Meg for a personalized consult on the BEST oils for you and your family.  If you would like to replenish your supply or learn more about essential oils visit Meg’s online webstore at: www.wellconsulting.org

How to Stay on the Healthy Path for HALLOWEEN

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     Sugar causes Cancer. That is now proven. It’s responsible for our obesity and diabetes epidemic and a host of other health disorders. But this stuff is addictive. It’s hard to break up with.  Many of my wellness warriors and clients tell me it’s impossible to avoid sugar around Halloween. It’s everywhere—at the office, in the grocery store, in your kids’ candy buckets. When the pull of sugar feels too strong, fight back! Use these simple tricks to help you enjoy Halloween without the toxic sugar overload.  An eye opening fact for you: Did you know that sugar is only a few chemical molecules different than the makeup of cocaine.  In fact in a recent study using mice, which were given a plethora of either cocaine or sugar to feast upon, the mice undoubtedly and undeniable chose the sugar to consume over the cocaine!  Are we ourselves addicted to this “legal drug” that is in EVERYTHING?  Why are we giving this DRUG to our children?

Let’s get to some sugar education and demystification:
Is there a connection between cocaine, heroin and sugar addiction? Many will be surprised to know that there is. The fact that a bag of Sour Patch Kids or gummy worms is related to cocaine, heroin, or other drugs might seem far fetched, but they’re similar in how they can affect the brain.  Sugar, like drugs and alcohol, activates the reward cycle of the brain by stimulating dopamine (the reward-seeking chemical that is also responsible for addictive behaviors). “A sugar binge alters brain function and fuels the desire for more sweet stuff,” says Princeton University psychology professor Bart Hoebel. There is a sugar high caused by a surge of dopamine, similar to the “feel-good” rush of drugs or alcohol. This can be followed by the psychological and physical symptoms of withdrawal when sugar is then denied. (Medheadlines.com)   As with drugs and alcohol, chronic use can cause down-regulation or even damage to neurotransmitter receptor sites, disrupting the brain’s natural chemistry. This leads to withdrawal symptoms, feeling of loss of control, bingeing, anxiety, stress, depression, cravings, and deeper levels of addiction (just think of how our little ones feel now after they crack open their Halloween goodies- it gives a new meaning to “little monsters!”)    Sugar causes neurochemical changes in the brain that are similar to drugs and alcohol addiction. As a result, sugar could act as a gateway drug for other drugs (Princeton University). Maintaining a healthy diet that is personalized for you can be crucial in keeping neurotransmitters and the reward pathway of the brain in balance, as well as the sugar cravings at bay.With the Halloween Madness just a few days away I compiled some of my tricks to help you start the path towards sugar elimination:

Start Your Day With Protein: The typical breakfast of carbs and sugary food sets you up to crave this food all day long. Instead, begin your day with a healthy smoothie that’s loaded with pea protein powder, healthy fats (like coconut oil), and phytonutrients; maybe add a little pumpkin and espresso and voila you now have a “Pumpkin Spice Smoothie!”
Move Your Body: Exercising, dancing, yoga, even going for a walk can reduce tension, boost your energy and mood, and decrease your need for a sugar lift.
Get Enough Sleep: When we are tired, we often turn to sugar and caffeine to counteract exhaustion. Don’t put yourself in this predicament—go to bed at the same time each night and give your body the rest it needs.
OIL Pull when you are CRAVING: Are you familiar with this method?  If not search the past blogs at WELL Consulting or contact Meg and she can email you the step by step instructions.  I promise you do this and you will reap so many benefits!
Take L-Glutamine:  When all else fails or when you decide to make that commitment to get rid of the sugar for you and the whole family- this will be the GAME CHANGER!  For acute sugar cravings, try this amino acid. It helps stabilize blood sugar levels and diminishes sugar cravings.  Glutamine is an amino acid that helps diminish sugar cravings, plays a vital role in gastrointestinal health, supports a strong immune system, promotes muscle tone and enhances mood and mental clarity.  This “super” amino acid is concentrated in the brain, skeletal muscles, gut lining, lungs, heart, kidneys and liver and provides a dynamic source of fuel for the whole body. It supports overall health with its huge range of benefits.

What it does

Helps stabilize blood sugar levels which is especially helpful if you are looking to kick your sugar habit and reduce your cravings for high-glycemic carbohydrates.

Nourishes the cells that line the gut and is essential to maintaining a healthy gastrointestinal tract – a key factor for a healthy immune system.

Helps to synthesize the neurotransmitters in the brain which can help relieve depression and fatigue, elevate mood and enhance relaxation.

Helps improve brain agility, focus, concentration, memory and alertness.

Helps build protein for strong muscles, making it a favorite for those who work out regularly.

How to take it

Take 2 capsules twice a day between meals or when the craving creeps up on you!  You can even sprinkle the powder option under your tongue!

It’s your secret weapon for when all else fails!

Here is where to purchase and brand recommendations: http://www.npscript.com/wellconsulting/l-glutamine-1000mg-1-gram-/PU0140PAR  and here is a powdered option for our children or those who have a hard time swallowing capsules: http://www.npscript.com/wellconsulting/l-glutamine-powder/PU0142PAR

As you know I am a firm believer that if you give the body what it needs,  it has the innate ability to HEAL itself!  Use these tools to begin the path towards wellness and join the Wellness Revolution with Meg at Whole Energy Lifestyle Living / WELL Consulting. www.wellconsulting.org

An ESSENTIAL Tip + How to Join the Wellness Revolution

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Wellness Your Way, A Tip for Today:

Rosemary has been called the herb of remembrance, even Shakespeare referred to in Hamlet.  Traditionally, rosemary has been used to improve memory and nervous disorders, as well as to reduce mental fatigue.  Scientific studies has found that rosemary may enhance the production of proteins essential for nerve growth and function.  One interesting feature of rosemary is that its essential oil positively affects short and long term memory when the scent is inhaled.  In a clinical study published in Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology, blood levels of rosemary oil’s active compound 1,8-cineole after inhalation corresponded to improvements in speed and accuracy of cognitive tasks.  You can bet this is something I am diffusing as I write this tip, as well as have my children inhale during homework time!  Inhaling deeply now!  A special note to teachers: I have seen many studies finding that this aids significantly when diffusing in the classroom.  A win for you and a win for your students!  Rosemary also has been associated with enhanced levels of contentment.

Do you have Rosemary oil and utilize it?  Leave comments on tips that other Wellness Warriors can take advantage of.  If you are looking for the most HEALING  Rosemary Oil, ask Meg or go to her link at: www.wellconsulting.org

In addition to the above by diffusing Rosemary oil in my office and during “homework hour”, I am also adding it to my turkey dinner this evening.  No fresh herbs needed, just therapeutic oil from Doterra and voila dinner that is rich in nutrients and flavor!

In addition if you have not yet gotten you INVITE: There’s a wellness revolution going on right now and there is so much we can do to grow it — join us and be a part of the change. Get informed, get involved and spread the word to your friends by joining my Facebook community at Whole Energy Lifestyle Living: https://www.facebook.com/wholeenergy?fref=ts&ref=br_tf   and following me at my blog at: www.wellconsulting.org   Just sign up and commit to the wellness path, and know that you have the support of a wellness tribe that is surrounding you and here for YOU!

Manifesting Wellness

By | Manifesting WELLNESS: Choosing HEALTH | No Comments

Greetings all my Wellness Warriors~

It is truly a delight to invite you to be a part of the wellness revolution!  “Whole Energy Lifestyle Living”/ WELL Consulting has an updated webpage, as well as many other exciting opportunities for you to manifest wellness, balance, and peace in your life!  The invitation awaits you at: www.wellconsulting.org sign up for the blog updates, which will include wellness driven recipes, education on supplements, and techniques to bring health into your daily routine and lasting lifestyle.  WELL Consulting also has a new online web store, where you can purchase all the supplements and skin care that we carry in the practice.  This allows for you to have your essentials shipped directly to you, whether you are home or traveling.  These supplements are of the highest grade and are available to you due to our medical degree and health training certifications. Trust me I  check ALL the boxes when we bring the right supplements to you and your family.  This is just another way to stay the path towards wellness!

This is also a personal call to my wellness warriors to remind you that it is your primary job to take care of yourself.  Now is the time to make your health and well being your top priority: otherwise I fear you will run out of oxygen and purpose.  When we lose sight of this priority we become weakened and defeated, and find it difficult to see the light in each day.  Being well is a decision and a choice, and Living Well is the BONUS!  Wellness flows from the inside out.  It fundamentally aligns the physical, emotional, environmental, nutritional, and spiritual elements in our life.  Wellness nourishes the spirit and marks importance to your heart and soul.  Part of this process is making sure we are surrounding our brains and cells with positive thoughts and thinking… remember our thoughts CAN and WILL become our reality, so we need to be mindful of our mindset!

So, how do we begin to manifest this path towards wellness? Prayers and meditations need not be spoken, they MUST be LIVED!  Being fully present in every moment we are given on this earth is the greatest meditation.  Being present is our prayer of praise and gratitude to the here and now.  Finding this present being is how we can create wellness and peace in our hearts.  Breathe in this moment and offer gratitude.  When we cultivate wellness in our life , we can then manifest doing well and finding success in every grace we are offered.  Live in this moment and put your thoughts on the WELLNESS that you deserve and can find with the right intention.

Please continue your path towards wellness and peace, and as always reach out to me at “Whole Energy Lifestyle Living”/ WELL Consulting if I can help nourish your journey or make your path less rocky.  It is an honor to offer many services that are personalized for each individual to stay their course of action towards wellness.  No two plans are the same, because we all need personalized care and medicine to manifest the wellness that each of us deserve and essentially require to create the lives we WANT!

 

PS:  Don’t forget to sign up for my blog at www.wellconsulting.org  and share the wellness by inviting others to the health and wellness they can find with us!

 

 

 

Joy!

By | Wellness | One Comment

Happy Wednesday to all my WELLNESS Warriors!

I believe that JOY is a spiritual practice!  How can you cultivate JOY in your life?  How do you currently make JOY included in your daily ritual?

The dictionary defines JOY as a noun with 3 definitions:

a feeling of great happiness
a source or cause of great happiness : something or someone that gives joy to someone
success in doing, finding, or getting something Read More

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