Author: Bret

Intestinal parasites are different species of worms that inhabit our digestive system. Intestinal parasites are not only a problem in third world nations due to the poor sanitation, but even in industrialized western countries, parasites are a very real problem.

The Cleveland clinic reports that over 60 million people in the US have an intestinal parasite and 25% have a parasitic infection worldwide (around 2 billion people) I suspect the statistics are a conservative number of the actual number of infections, because they are confirmed instances of infection and not the unknown/unreported cases.

Some health experts have stated that around 70% of parasites that are excreted aren’t visible to the naked eye and can still cause problems despite their smaller size. It is also possible to harbor intestinal parasites without exhibiting any symptoms of an infection. Below I’ll discuss different symptoms of a potential parasitic infection and I’ll outline remedies to purge parasites from the digestive system.

Symptoms of a parasitic infection

According to Mount Sinai and the Cleveland Clinic, intestinal parasitic infection side effects include the following:

Abdominal pain

Diarrhea

Fatigue

Nausea

Unexplained weight loss

Brain fog

Allergies/food intolerances

Headaches/migraines

Blood glucose dysglycemia(irregular blood sugar)

Some additional symptoms are: weight gain, joint pain, skin issues, irritability, depression, insomnia, anxiety, and irritated/itchy private parts.

Full moon and increased parasitic activity

Each month during a full moon, parasites increase their activity and reproduce. On March 14 in a few days, there will be a full moon.

This full moon is called the “worm moon” interestingly enough. A full moon is an advantageous time to do a parasite cleanse because of the increased activity of the parasites in our digestive system, which increases the likelihood of purging them from the body. Some speculate that the serotonin levels within parasites spike during the full moon phase of a lunar cycle. This in turn increases their activity and reproduction rate.

Parasites have an affinity for certain substances in our bodies. One thing a parasite loves to consume is sugar. If you’re ever feeling a sugar craving it could be caused from parasites invoking a response to give them their food. Parasites also like to consume iron as well. Anemia can be problematic for those with a long term infection after parasites have depleted ferritin from the iron stores.

Herbs that purge parasites

Some extremely powerful herbs(yeah, yeah, plants can provide benefits, Mr. Carnivore-ha-ha). A few herbs that are effective for killing parasites are: black walnut, wormwood, garlic, and oregano.

Many of these herbs are good for certain types of parasites and often times are mixed in a tincture for maximum effectiveness. I’ve personally used the “now foods” green black walnut wormwood complex. You can purchase on Amazon for a decent price and it has worked well for me personally.

Consuming 1-2 droppers prior to a meal and 1-2 droppers before bedtime and continue the regimen for a few weeks, take a one week break, then continue for another week. Now is a great time to give a cleanse a try before the full moon in a few days. Give it a try to see how much better you’ll feel after the cleanse is done. During the cleanse there can be some unpleasant side effects from parasite die off also called a “hexheimer reaction”. They can mimic signs of a flu and can manifest as other symptoms as well. Once these symptoms subside, you’ll feel even better than before you started the cleanse.

Lactobacillus reuteri or L. reuteri (pronounced el-roy-ter-eye)is a strain of bacteria that is classified as a beneficial probiotic. L. reuteri is an ancient microbe that has many unique properties. L-reuteri occurs naturally in our microbiome when we’re born non-c-section birth and breast fed. If we have taken any antibiotics or been exposed to pesticides, the chances are high that the L. reuteri that was naturally occurring in our microbiome, is no longer present.

There are L. reuteri tablets available, but the microbe counts are quite low. However, Dr. William Davis, a cardiologist, discovered that fermenting the tablets with some half and half or whole milk you can increase bacterial strains exponentially. Dr. Davis says that the L. reuteri microbe proliferation occurs around human body temperature. He laments calling the L. reuteri, yogurt because of the distinctive differences between traditional yogurt and the L-reuteri bacterial strain.

Traditional yogurt typically ferments for a few hours and has different strains of bacteria to be classified as a yogurt. I will describe the L. reuteri as a “cultured dairy” to make the distinction between a lackluster store bought yogurt and a powerful homemade mega probiotic dairy superfood.

He also discovered that the “cultured dairy” doubles in microbes every three hours of incubation time. He established the optimal time of incubation was 36 hours. It doubles probiotic counts 12 times total. Dr. Davis says beyond 36 hours the beneficial microbes begin to die off.

There are a few cooking vessels I’ve used personally that yield dependable and consistent results. I like to use a sous vide and an instant pot to make the cultured dairy. With a sous vide I fill up a pot with water and set the probe in the water with the “slurry” of mixture and set for 99 degrees Fahrenheit for 36 hours. As for the instant pot, I toggle the yogurt setting and choose the “less” setting and the temp is right around 100 degrees which is still in range of proper temperature. There are various ways to incubate the cultured dairy so check your desired method with a thermometer to ensure it doesn’t exceed 109 degrees Fahrenheit which is when the microbes start to die off.

In the next section I will post a YouTube link to Dr. Davis making the yogurt step-by-step. The “slurry” I mentioned is comprised of: the lactobacillus reuteri(either the tablets, powder or starter), 2 tablespoons of inulin powder(this feeds the microbes to help them proliferate), and either half and half or whole milk.

The great thing about making this cultured dairy product is once you make the first batch with the tablets or powder, you can use the starter from each batch to continue to make the L-reuteri continuously! In my opinion, Dr. Davis needs to be awarded a noble prize for his discovery of such an incredibly important method to introduce this highly beneficial microbe to our microbiome!

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=la9yODLZizo&t=192s&pp=2AHAAZACAcoFFmRyIGRhdmlzIHlvZ3VydCByZWNpcGU%3D

Benefits of L. reuteri

One of the most interesting aspect of L. reuteri is the increase of the hormone called “oxytocin”. Oxytocin is sometimes known as the hormone of love and empathy. Many people associate oxytocin as a hormone that spikes during a pregnant mother’s child birth. This is also true, but it has some very interesting effects on both women and men as well. It has the potential improve body composition: helps build muscle and lose body fat. I’ve personally noticed my clothes fit better but the number on the scale has either stayed the same or has gone up! Muscle gain is a very common occurrence while consuming the L. reuteri several times a week.

Oxytocin also can alleviate depressive symptoms and decrease anxiety tremendously. My anxiety has essentially vanished since regularly consuming the cultured dairy the last few months. Another function of oxytocin is the anorexigenic (unfortunate term)impact it has on our appetite. In other words it lessens our appetite, but we are still able to enjoy our meals despite this. Oxytocin encourages the production of dermal collagen with helps with skin health and wrinkle reduction. Oxytocin also increases testosterone and in doing so, boosts sex drive in both men and women, as well as increasing vaginal moisture.

L. reuteri also has a profound effect on the treatment of SIBO(small intestinal bacterial overgrowth). L. reuteri also can benefit hair growth and balances gut flora.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=nMdyFkOBZgc&pp=ygUSbCByZXV0ZXJpIGJlbmVmaXRz

What is vitamin D and why is it important?

Vitamin D also known as “the sunshine vitamin”, is extremely beneficial to the body.  We call vitamin D a vitamin, however this is slightly inaccurate.  It is classified as a hormone.  A hormone is defined as a substance made by an organism used to regulate the functions in the cells and tissue. ( I will continue to refer to it as a vitamin to avoid confusion)

This particular vitamin is a fat soluble vitamin, meaning that it must have a source of dietary fat for its benefits to be absorbed. Vitamin D is responsible for enhancing intestinal absorption of calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphate, and zinc (all very essential nutrients for the body to function properly).

Sources of vitamin D in the diet

There are very few ways by dietary means to obtain this life improving element.  Some of these are: oily fish like salmon, swordfish, sardines, tuna, and mackerel.  Cod liver oil is a great supplement for a concentrated source, if you don’t enjoy consuming fish. Cod liver oil is also an excellent way to get EPA and DHA omega 3 fats into your diet as well as vitamin A.  There are also beef and pork products that are rich in this critical hormone if seafood isn’t your thing. You can obtain these through beef liver, and various cuts of pork.  Eggs and some dairy products like milk are fortified with vitamin D.  As for vegans, the choices are very sparse.  The best food source would have to be mushrooms, but it would be prudent to use supplements and other methods to achieve a healthy level.  It would need to be taken with a fat source to be adequately absorbed.  I’d recommend frying mushrooms with olive oil or coconut oil if you’re going to go the food route.

Disease prevention

Optimal levels of vitamin D can safeguard you from cancer and auto-immune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and type 1 diabetes.  Vitamin D is essential for a healthy heart and circulatory system too.  It can also benefit healthy teeth and bones.  In addition, it promotes a healthy respiratory system, which can prevent illnesses like bronchitis, strep throat, pneumonia, and many different strains of cold and flu viruses.  It can also aid in regulation of the digestive system and help with inflammatory bowel conditions like Crohn’s disease as well.

Mental health

As far as mental wellness, vitamin D (in conjunction with fish oil) can be beneficial in treating depression and seasonal affective disorder.  In addition, it can be a boon for people with schizophrenia, ADHD, bipolar disorder, dementia, and Alzheimer’s  disease.

Light exposure

Having said that, the best way to get vitamin D is from the sun itself.  But for those of that have winters with minimal sun exposure, we can turn to light therapy. Light therapy is a lamp that has an internal battery which you charge via charging cable and emits light and UV rays that help with mood and resets your circadian rhythm (sleep cycle).

It should also be noted that cholesterol; an essential nutrient, (unfairly demonized by doctors for the cause of heart conditions) creates vitamin D when the body absorbs UV rays.  There are also over the counter vitamin D tablets that work well.  Liquid forms are also available, as well as fish oil capsules, which I previously mentioned.   If you decide to use a vitamin D supplement, be sure to buy the vitamin D3 form.

A few deficiency symptoms include:depression issues with weight gain/obesity aching bones and joint gut issues fatiguelowered immunity

Health screening

It would be wise to go to a doctor to get a full vitamin and mineral panel to find out what nutrients you may be lacking.  According to Dr. Joseph Mercola, an ideal level should be in the range of 50-70 nanograms per milliliter.  Some people need more vitamin D than others.  For instance, black folks have more melanin in their skin, so they don’t absorb the UV rays from the sun as easily as someone with lighter skin.  For someone who is suffering from a chronic disease like cancer or a condition like a heart disease, the range should be a bit higher.  70-100 would be the target to have maximum effectiveness.

Points to take home:

Vitamin D is a fat soluble hormone

Vitamin D is needed for the absorption of crucial minerals needed for the body to function properly

Raising vitamin D levels is an essential step to take to prevent and alleviate disease

Sun exposure is an ideal way to meet and maintain a beneficial level of vitamin D

Vitamin D can be obtained through diets with animal products and some vegetables

Cholesterol in the body is converted into vitamin D when exposed to UV rays

What is sodium bicarbonate?

Sodium bicarbonate is a water soluble white powder comprised of a positively charged ion of sodium bound to three oxygen atoms, carbon atom, and an atom of hydrogen (NaHCO3).   Sodium bicarbonate is more commonly known as baking soda.  It is important to point out that baking soda and baking powder are slightly different.  Many baking powder brands contain aluminum in the mixture, while baking soda does not.  When people think of baking soda, they often think of it used as an ingredient for cooking or cleaning.  Did you also know baking soda can be used as a cancer remedy?  One of the best documented cases is a man named Vernon Johnston who beat his stage IV prostate cancer following a sodium bicarbonate regimen. Here is a link to his story.

https://www.medicaldaily.com/curing-cancer-molasses-and-baking-soda-can-vernon-johnstons-story-teach-us-anything-258851

pH kills cancer

pH stands for “power of hydrogen” or “potential of hydrogen” and is measured with the pH scale.  The pH scale is used to gauge the acidity or alkalinity of substances and organisms.  When speaking in terms of cancer, the body of someone who has cancer has an acidic environment within their blood, cells, and tissues.  Using baking soda mixed with water and molasses (the molasses acts as a carrier to drive the baking soda to the site of the cancerous cells) you will drastically spike your pH with this cancer fighting elixir.  Other alternatives to use as a carrier in place of molasses are lemon juice and high quality maple syrup.

Conventional treatment vs Sodium bicarbonate protocol 

Conventional treatments not only cost a substantial amount of money, but you can also pay for it in terms of your health.  When you compare the risks and price of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery to sodium bicarbonate protocol is only a few dollars and has no side effects.  Although sodium bicarbonate treatments can be very effective at fighting cancer, people should consider using several different natural treatments and dietary changes to have optimal effectiveness in dealing with cancer.

Alkaline vs. Acidic Environment

On the pH scale, there are levels from 0-14.  Anything below 7 is considered acidic.  7 is considered neutral and above 7 is considered alkaline.  Normal levels of pH in the blood tend to be around 7.35-7.45.  When the body is in an acidic state it is more prone to disease and dysfunction.  On the other hand, an alkaline environment is a prime regulator of a properly functioning and disease free body.  It is worth mentioning that there are acidic foods (lemon juice and apple cider vinegar just to name a few) that are highly acidic, but have an alkalizing effect in the body regardless.  It is also important to point out that the kidneys are the prime regulator of the pH in the blood.

 

Dr. Tullio Simoncini’s bold claim

Dr. Simoncini is a former holistic oncologist based in Italy.  He claims that cancer is a fungus derived from candida albicans.  Although cancer being a fungus isn’t conclusive, Dr. Simoncini had been curing his patients since 1981 using intravenous injections of sodium bicarbonate with an impressive 90% cure rate. Dr. Simoncini’s medical license was revoked and he has been ostracized by the Italian medical association and the Italian government.

 https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=bvlAd8WAG_I&pp=ygUUZHIgdHVsbGlvIHNpbW9uY2VsbGk%3D

Points to take home

Sodium bicarbonate is baking soda and has many different uses, including a cancer remedy

pH stands for “power of hydrogen” or “potential of hydrogen”

The pH scale measures the acidity or alkalinity of substances and organisms

Balancing pH levels has the potential to destroy cancerous cells

Conventional treatments are extremely expensive and potentially dangerous compared to a holistic approach like the sodium bicarbonate protocol

Molasses, lemon juice, and high quality maple syrup are effective methods to use as carriers for baking soda

Several different natural approaches should be used in order to have maximum effectiveness putting cancer into remission

 

 

 

 

 

What is colloidal silver?

Colloidal silver (C.S.) is a powerful substance you need to have at your disposal all year round (especially during cold and flu season) to prevent or combat sickness and infections.  That’s great, but what is colloidal silver exactly?  C.S. is a fluid made with a machine called a colloidal silver generator.  A colloidal silver generator needs a power source to work.  Some silver generators use batteries, others use electricity and can plugged into a wall outlet.   A source of silver, usually a silver wire is also connected to the machine.  Distilled water and a water purity meter are also needed.  When the machine is turned on, the silver particles are infused into the water.  The result is a colorless, odorless, and nearly tasteless clear substance,  nonetheless C.S. is a powerful medicine and can be used to alleviate sickness, soothe infections and Inflammation.

What can colloidal silver be used for?

C.S  has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.  C.S. has also been shown to be more effective as an antibiotic than the traditionally prescribed antibiotics from the pharmacy.  Not to say that antibiotics don’t work, but serious health hazards have stemmed from their overuse over the years.  Some problems include:  beneficial bacteria in the gut are killed off from being on multiple cycles of antibiotics in a short span of time  and can cause obesity SIBO(small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) and leaky gut.  Another long term  hazard could be caused from the body adapting to a repeated stimulus (antibodies) and  develop antibiotic resistance.   Serious cases of antibiotic resistance can lead to deadly superbugs like Methicillin-resistant Staphlylococcus aureous (MRSA).

Sickness prevention

C.S. can be an excellent way to protect yourself and your family by preventing or speeding up recovery time of certain illnesses and conditions.   Ailments like flu, cold, allergies, food poisoning, pneumonia, and bronchitis; just to name a few.  There are few methods you can use to do this.  The first way would be to take C.S. orally a few times a day.  Another way is to use an inhaler or nebulizer and breathe in the silver in an aerosolized form (This would be a good way to expectorate the lungs if you have a respiratory infection like bronchitis or pneumonia.)  This can also be achieved through the use of a humidifier.

Colloidal silver for pets

C.S. would also be beneficial to give to your pets.  It can be given to dogs, cats, rabbits, and horses,  to name a few.  Dosage amounts of the C.S. may vary from animal to animal , however it can be used for the same reasons people use it: alleviating allergies, safer antibiotic alternative, disinfectant for cuts and burns, ingested for food poisoning and parasite detox, putting drops in ears and eyes for infections.

Potential dangers of colloidal silver

As far as safety concerns go, too much of anything can be harmful.  For example, drinking an excessive amount of water can be deadly.  So it stands to reason, ingesting large amounts of silver infused water can be harmful as well.  There have been very few reports regarding the negative side effects of C.S. over the span of several years.  Some claims state that  taking C.S. turned their skin a bluish silver color.  Don’t let this worry you.  Most of the time the silver that was used was of poor quality and consumed in incredibly high amounts as well.

Maximizing the bioavailability of colloidal silver

The important thing to look for when buying C.S. or a C.S. generator is the particle size.  The smaller the particle size, the more effectively it is absorbed and utilized by the body.  The measurement  used to determine the particle size is called a micron.  A micron or a micrometer is 1/1000th of a nanometer.  The parts per million (PPM) or the concentration is of some importance, but the smaller particle size should take priority over the concentration of the silver.

Topical uses

As for topical uses, C.S. can be used to make a gel when mixed with 100% aloe vera gel.  C.S. gel can be made by mixing 2 tbs of colloidal silver for every half cup of aloe vera gel.  The gel is terrific for cuts, burns, acne, eczema, and ringworm.  C.S. can also be mixed in with hand soap to protect from harmful germs.  (Dr, Bronner’s organic castile soap is a great brand to use.  Avoid using antibacterial soaps. because of health concerns from micro flora skin balance.)   Soap and shampoo made with C.S.  can remedy dandruff and dry skin and make eczema a thing of the past.

Points To Take Home:

C.S. is a colorless, odorless, and a nearly tasteless liquid made by using a machine called a silver generator

C.S. has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti fungal properties

C.S. is a safer and more effective antibiotic than traditionally prescribed antibiotics

C.S. is an efficient way to treat food poisoning and respiratory infections like a cold, bronchitis and pneumonia

C.S. can be given to pets to alleviate certain conditions and help keep them healthy

Always be wary of C.S. quality and be sure not to ingest C.S. in excess to avoid harm

There are many different ways to use C.S. in medical and hygiene products

When it comes to choosing silver, the smaller the silver particle size, the safer, the better and the more bioavailable

 

1 – Cholesterol Is Crucial For Optimal Health

Many Doctors are critical of higher cholesterol numbers and prescribe statin drugs (cholesterol lowering drugs) without realizing the devastating health effects they can have on their patients.   The major problems many experience while taking statins long term are: diabetes, cancer, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, sexual dysfunction, muscular dysfunction, and suppression of the immune system (just to name a few).   An important aspect of cholesterol is understanding the difference between HDL and LDL cholesterol. Many doctors will tell you HDL is good and LDL is bad. However, cholesterol levels are not as black and white when we look closer.  For instance, there are multiple subtypes of HDL and LDL cholesterol respectively .  The smaller dense particles are the less desirable types of cholesterol because they cause the blood to become sticky and more prone to clotting.  The large fluffy particles are the more favorable type.  They act as a sort of street sweeper for your arteries.

 Cholesterol is a necessary cofactor for the synthesis of vitamin D from the sun’s UVB rays (eat those eggs!).  Since the brain is made of around 60% fat, dietary intake of cholesterol has the potential to boost cognitive function.  The Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine conducted a study in lab mice. The mice had a neurological condition called pelizaeus-merzbacher disease (a condition similar to Alzheimer’s disease).  The mice were put on a diet rich in cholesterol.  Within 6 weeks the myelin sheaths in their brain partially regenerated and the progression of the disease halted. The Myelin sheathes are a layer of lipoproteins (fats and proteins) that protect the axons (pathways which neurotransmitters travel) shielding the brain from harmful free radicals.  Other important aspects of cholesterol are the balancing of hormones, tissue repair, and cellular function.  Make no mistake, cholesterol is ESSENTIAL for life itself. Dr. Ben Bikman says that people that have elevated cholesterol tend to live the longest lives.

2 – Eat More Fat

Eating foods rich in the right kinds of fats can also be a significant part of a healthy diet.  Ideally we should be eating a lower amount of carbohydrate in conjunction with higher fat to mitigate inflammatory markers.  Eating a diet higher in fat you will reap the full benefits of fat soluble vitamins  (vitamins A,D,E, and K).   Simply putting a source of saturated fat like butter on your steak, not only tastes incredible, but has the ability to keep hunger at bay for a longer time than eating the steak by itself.  While fat is the most calorically dense macronutrient, (9 calories per gram) it has the least impact on insulin (energy storage hormone) levels.  In addition to stabilizing insulin levels, eating fat also balances other hormones like testosterone and estrogen.  

Other essential fats are polyunsaturated fats like EPA and DHA (omega 3 fatty acids). If you aren’t eating fish regularly, taking a fish oil supplement daily would be highly beneficial.  Omega 3’s help with heart health, depression, lower triglycerides, and promote joint health.  Other polyunsaturated  fats are omega 6.  Although omega 6 fats are a necessary, eating too many omega 6 increases inflammation.  Ideally we want our omega 3 to 6 ratio to be around 1:1.  Monounsaturated fats are another beneficial fat that can reduce cancer risk and promote weight loss.  Monounsaturated fats are found in foods like avocados and olive oil.  This is only a brief summation of the topic of dietary fats.

 Some fats to avoid completely are trans fats.  Trans fats increase the small dense cholesterol particles and have been shown to cause cancer, increase inflammation and cause heart disease.  Trans fats are commonly labeled as hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils.  Common foods with trans fats include: microwave popcorn, fried foods, margarine, shortening, non dairy creamers, baking mixes and frosting.  

 

3 – All Disease Begins In The Gut

The gut is the epicenter of our immune system.  Hippocrates was accurate when he stated thousands of years ago, “All disease begins in the gut”.  Some would argue that some disease is inherited genetically, but if we look into the study of epigenetics we would discover that environmental influences switch on and off certain genes.  Some health experts refer to the gut as the “second brain”.  They argue that gut health is a reflection of overall mood and well being.  Did you know that 80% of serotonin we produce is made in our guts?

Prebiotics are fibrous foods that feed the healthy flora in our guts.  Prebiotics are primarily derived from plant sources.  They include leafy green vegetables, flax seeds, chia seeds, and psyllium (just to name a few).   Probiotics are various strains of yeasts and bacteria that live in the microbiome of our gut.  The main function of these are to break down the nutrients from the food that we eat. Probiotics are found in fermented food and beverages. Homemade sauerkraut. pickles, kombucha, aged cheeses, greek yogurt, and kefir.  When the homeostatic state of a gut is compromised, candida overgrowth can occur, resulting in a condition called leaky gut syndrome.  Leaky gut syndrome happens when the stomach lining is damaged and toxins leak into the bloodstream.  This can cause many different health complications and diseases.  Some symptoms of leaky gut include: food sensitivities, arthritis, eczema, psoriasis, type 1 diabetes, and digestive disorders.

4 – Exercise Boosts Mood; Increases Insulin And Leptin Sensitivity

 

Many people exercise with the intention of burning calories.  While the burning of calories is a product of exercise, it is only a minor reason for doing so.  Exercise release endorphins in the brain, which can reduce anxiety, reset circadian rhythm, boost metabolism, and relieve depression.  These reasons alone should be enough for anyone to exercise.  Other critical elements to exercise are increased insulin sensitivity and leptin sensitivity.  When insulin sensitivity is increased, your body uses less insulin to normalize blood glucose levels.  Leptin is the hormone that regulates hunger satiety, meaning you will feel full quicker, when leptin sensitivity increases.  Many people are believers in HIIT (high intensity interval training) exercise.  HIIT involves brief moments of explosive exertion followed a slightly longer time of lower intensity, then back to higher intensity.

 

5 – Fasting Is Beneficial To Your Health

 

Fasting is a something that can make people cringe at the very mention of it.  In America we’ve grown accustomed to eating a meal every 3-4 hours three times a day.  Fasting is one of the best ways available to rebuild our immune system, boost mood, and repair the digestive system.  There’s also another type of fasting called intermittent fasting.  Intermittent fasting involves eating meals within a time frame and fasting the remainder of the day.  For instance, an 18:6 intermittent fast involves 18 hours of fasting and a 6 hours to eat your meals.  Normally intermittent fasting involves eating one large meal or two smaller meals.  Fasting has the ability to balance blood glucose and lower insulin and has the potential to put type 2 diabetes into remission!

What is magnesium?

Magnesium is a trace mineral found in nature that is a white or silverish color and can be taken in supplemental form.  Magnesium was discovered in the year 1755 by Scottish chemist Joseph Black and successfully isolated by Sir Humphrey Davy near the Greek city of Magnesia in 1808.  Sir Humphrey Davy initially called the trace metal “magnium”, but the name was renamed magnesium years later.

Why is magnesium important?

Magnesium is needed for the body to perform over 300 biochemical functions and is also an electrolyte.  Electrolytes are compounds needed by the body that generate an electrical charge and provide the necessary components for the body to function.  The electrolytes are:  potassium, magnesium, sodium, chloride, calcium, hydrogen phosphate, and hydrogen carbonate.  Magnesium is the fourth most prevalent mineral found in the human body.  One of the main functions of magnesium is to aide the body in absorbing calcium in the bones and teeth, which prevents osteoporosis as well as warding off tooth decay.  

Magnesium can be used as a preventative measure for diabetes because it reduces the amount of glucose in the blood, thereby minimizing insulin levels.  When it comes to athletic performance, magnesium is an excellent way to increase oxygen levels in the body giving you an edge if you’re an endurance athlete or lifting heavy weights.  

Magnesium is also a factor in the nervous system because it regulates a healthy heartbeat rhythm and keeps a healthy blood pressure level.  It also plays a big part in muscle function by aiding in the expansion and contraction of muscles and prevents muscles from cramping and reduces the prevalence of headaches.  Since magnesium is a cofactor for the synthesis of dopamine and serotonin it comes to no surprise that magnesium plays a role with mood and overall well being.   Magnesium is a fantastic way to eliminate anxiety, reduce stress, and combat depression by increasing glutamine levels , diminishes apathy, boosts memory, and enhances overall brain function.

 Since magnesium is a natural muscle relaxant, it has a laxative effect and makes it a great supplement to keep regular bowel movements.  Magnesium can also help the digestive system absorb and synthesize protein, fat, and carbohydrate to be converted to ATP (adenosine triphosphate) which powers the body’s cells and is used as energy.  In addition to providing energy, magnesium can also alleviate insomnia, because interestingly enough magnesium also has a sedating effect and can help you get to sleep relatively quickly.

Magnesium deficiency symptoms

Muscle cramping and spasms

Anxiety and depression

Hypertension (high blood pressure)

Hormone dysregulation

Insomnia (getting to sleep and staying asleep)

Lethargy

Calcified arteries

Brittle bones and teeth

Seizures

Foods rich in magnesium

When it comes to the most potent sources of magnesium, leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale, swiss chard, mustard greens, and turnip greens are all decent sources of magnesium as well as prebiotic fiber to balance flora in the gut.  Nuts and seeds are an even better source of magnesium.  Some noteworthy nuts and seeds are squash seeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, brazil nuts, almonds, and cashews.  Another great plant source packed with nutrition and a decent amount of magnesium are avocados.  However you may be excited to learn the most potent source of dietary magnesium is dark chocolate (higher in cocoa and lower in sugar).  One 29 gram square of dark chocolate has 95 milligrams of magnesium.

Other ways to get magnesium

If you have aching or tired muscles a great way to recover faster is by taking a hot/warm bath with 2 cups of epsom salts.  Epsom salts aren’t actually salts at all, because epsom salt contains no sodium or chloride.  However the epsom salt ingredients are magnesium and sulfate (sulfur), which can be absorbed through the body’s largest organ, the skin.  In addition to relieving muscle soreness, epsom salt baths can naturally draw out harmful toxins within the body.  Epsom salt baths can be excellent for skin conditions like athlete’s foot and eczema.  I feel supplements are essential for everyone, because over 90% of the population is deficient in this critical mineral.  There are several different supplemental forms of magnesium.  Forms of magnesium, like magnesium oxide are less bioavailable than the other forms, but can be used as an intestinal and bowel cleanser.  Dr. Joseph Mercola recommends magnesium glycinate which is a chelated form that he feels has the highest absorption rate.  Other forms like magnesium citrate (magnesium bound with citric acid) also have very high bioavailability, which I personally take every night to get to sleep.

Points to take home:

Magnesium is an essential trace mineral responsible for over 300 biochemical functions in the body

Magnesium deficiency affects over 90% of the population

Magnesium is primarily found in plant foods and can be taken in supplement form

Magnesium can help greatly with muscle cramping and heart beat irregularity

Magnesium can be used to have regular bowel movements

Magnesium is commonly taken as a sleep aide

The definition of a “drug” according to the Britannica dictionary is: any chemical substance that affects living organisms. It isn’t too much of a stretch to say that the foods we eat have consequences and can alter our state of health once they’re consumed.

Think back to thanksgiving time. We’re gathered around the table and gorging ourselves on copious amounts of food. How did we feel afterwards? Sluggish and sleepy? Full and miserable? Can you reflect on a time when you ate a healthy meal and felt fantastic afterwards? Did eating a fatty steak make you feel energized and an overall better mood? Just food for thought, literally.

Food has a substantial impact on the way we feel and the way our bodies function, whether good or bad. Certain foods have psychoactive effects on our mental health as well as our physical health. We’ve all been “hangry” before when our blood glucose dips too low and we know it’s time to eat.

Sure, eating a doughnut always sounds great but the foods we consume have a downstream impact on each aspect of our health. Picking on donuts for a minute: donuts may be one of the worst foods we could eat for three simple reasons. It’s made of grains, it has a ton of sugar, and normally fried in seed oils. All three of these things can cause a massive amount of inflammation in the body and in the brain. Although brain inflammation isn’t really felt, but experienced through poor mental health, like depression and anxiety. Processed foods are devoid of nutrients and can negatively influence poor mental health as well as suboptimal physical health.

Gut/brain connection: viva las vagus (nerve). Prebiotics and probiotics and the effects they have on our health

Prebiotics and probiotics have a profound impact on our mental health, digestion and our overall physical health. Prebiotics are indigestible fiber that the beneficial microbes feed on once they’re introduced into our digestive system. Probiotics ARE the beneficial bacterial strains themselves. To recap: probiotics are health bacteria and prebiotics are their foods they need to proliferate and thrive.

When a baby is born traditionally(non c-section) once the baby traverses through the birth canal and is breast fed, it establishes a strong microbiome populated with healthy bacteria as well as a robust immune system.

The good, the bad, and the insulin

Metabolic syndrome is an umbrella term used to describe a combination of the multiple health ailments listed below.

Insulin plays an important role in our overall metabolic status. Insulin is a hormone secreted by our pancreas in order to lower blood glucose and to store the glucose as energy. However, a problem occurs with constantly elevated insulin(also called hyperinsulinemia). Cells become less efficient at absorbing insulin and storing energy and cannot keep up with demand.

In other words the body becomes overrun with excess insulin and becomes less efficient at storing and using energy. This is why I’m such a strong believer in a fasting insulin lab panel being the gold standard to prevent diabetes as well as determining overall metabolic status.

In this post I will give a run down of medicinal mushrooms (no, not that type of mushrooms…far out man). I will breakdown different species and each of their respective health benefits.

Cordyceps

The origins of this particular mushroom are sprouted from insect larva…gross. In this mushroom sprouting phase it replaces the larval tissue with stems and begins to grow. The health benefits of the cordyceps mushrooms promote production of ATP(adenosine triphosphate) which gives us energy. Due to the energy boosts it is a great mushroom to combat fatigue and enhancing exercise performance. For this reason some athletes and weight lifters use this mushroom as a pre workout for an additional boost of energy for their workout.

Because of its antioxidant capability, cordyceps mushrooms provide anti aging benefits and mitigate the effects of free radicals. Cordyceps also have anti carcinogenic properties as well and can prevent the formation of cancer cells. Cordyceps also help with the production of collagen and healthier skin. Due to this mushrooms’s calming effects it is also used to de-stress and promote relaxation. Cordyceps also helps improve health markers, like blood glucose and cholesterol levels. And lastly, cordyceps is an anti-inflammatory and can improve cardiovascular function.

Turkey Tail

Similar to Cordyceps, turkey tail has a high level of antioxidants, anti cancer properties, and anti-inflammatory. The main difference that the turkey tail mushroom has is the immune system enhancing benefits and gut balancing prebiotics. Prebiotics are the fibers that our healthy gut bacteria feed on to promote their proliferation.

Shitake

Holy shitake! This mushroom is unique because of its diverse nutrient profile. It has a small amount of protein and a similar amino acid profile found in meat. Shitake has vitamin D2 which is the plant source’s version of vitamin D. It is noteworthy to mention the vitamin D2 in plants aren’t as efficient of a means to raise vitamin D levels.

Shitake also has many B vitamins, zinc, copper, selenium, and manganese. Similarly to other mushrooms, shitake also has immune boosting properties, heart protective and anti carcinogenic effects as well. An interesting difference with shitake, it has anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal qualities…huh?! I guess it takes a fungus to fight a fungus?!

Reishi

The reishi mushroom shares similar characteristics and benefits to the others with its immune system enhancing benefits, blood glucose improvement, a robust anti-oxidant profile, and energy level increase, and anti carcinogenic effects. One of the main differences of the reishi mushroom is its effect on mental health. Reishi can improve mood and alleviate signs of depression. Some people call reishi “the king of the mushrooms”.

Lion’s Mane

This mushroom gets its name from its texture that resembles the mane of a lion. Lion’ mane benefits have similarities to Reishi for the neuroprotective qualities it has. Not only does lion’s mane help with positive mood, anxiety and depression alleviation, it can help people afflicted with dementia. Lion’s mane improves memory and overall cognition. This mushroom also has the ability to regenerate brain cells and regrow damaged tissue in the hippocampus.

Lion’ mane also had the ability to reverse nerve damage from traumatic damage inflicted to the nervous system. This mushroom also inhibits the growth of h pylori, which is a harmful bacteria that can cause gut balance issues and ulcers.

What is light therapy?

Light Therapy (also known as phototherapy or photo-biomodulation) is the process of utilizing natural and artificial sources of light to combat depression, SAD (seasonal affective disorder), promotes secretion of serotonin from the pineal gland,  stimulates production of vitamin D and resets the body’s circadian rhythm.  Some consider the practice of light therapy pseudoscience or quackery.  I personally am an advocate for practicing light therapy.   The positive effects from exposure to sunlight or even certain types of artificial light has been a tremendously positive influence on my mood, particularly in the winter months when sunlight is limited.

History of light therapy

The concept of light therapy can be dated back thousands of years to ancient civilizations that practiced sun worship.  In the early 20th century a scientist named Niels Ryberg Finsen invented a device capable of producing artificial sunlight.  With this device he was able to treat health conditions like lupus vulgaris, using the radiation emitted by the light to alleviating the person’s condition.  In the 1950 when rickets was more prevalent, light and laser therapy was used to help those with vitamin D deficiency and issues with malabsorption of nutrients.  More recently in the early 1990s, NASA was exploring methods to use lamps to promote the growth of crops on planets that don’t receive adequate sunlight.  This endeavor aided in the understanding of the epigenetic effect of light sources on living organisms.

Colored lights and its effect on human psyche

There’s no question that the source of where light comes from is of great importance.  The color of light being emitted is also an extremely crucial factor in influencing the mental state of human beings.  The study of different colors [of light] and how they affect human mood is called chromotherapy.  Have you ever noticed when you’re really tired and you use a device with a bright screen it makes it almost impossible to fall asleep?  Watching T.V., using a computer, smartphone, tablet or even using certain light therapy lamps, emit a blue light, and blue light (and light of any kind for that matter) inhibits the production of melatonin which raises alertness and makes it difficult to sleep.  This is why it is important to avoid T.V. and computer usage a few hours before bedtime.  (Although it may be possible to change the color settings on the T.V. and computer)  When it comes to using handheld devices, many of them have a light filter setting that block out blue light so you can use your phone or tablet at night without the worry of it disturbing your circadian rhythm.

Light sources

Using proper light sources in your home/apartment is an important factor to consider.  There are a few different ways to light your living space, such as natural light and artificial light (there are subcategories of these as well).  For example natural light includes sunlight and open flame like candlelight and fire (from a fireplace or a bonfire).  Artificial lighting comes from light bulbs, like LED, fluorescent, halogen, and incandescent.  Each one is unique in terms of the elements and materials used to make the bulb emit light.  For example fluorescent lights are made by ionizing mercury in a glass tube.  Mercury is a very harmful heavy metal that can have harmful effects if absorbed by the body.  In addition, LED bulbs emit radiation, which can cause headaches, eye strain, and over time could cause skin cancer.  Aside from the materials and chemical structure, other important factors to consider are the light color, brightness (lumens) and the flicker rate (Hz).  Ideally you want a bulb with a minimal hue rather than something like a blue light because, as I mentioned, blue light inhibits melatonin production and can be problematic around bedtime.  When it comes to light exposure during the day, don’t be afraid to open the window blinds and let the sunlight brighten up your day (literally).  As far as bulbs go, incandescent bulbs have been around for a very long time, but in many ways considered to be superior to newer bulbs like LED and fluorescent.  Although fluorescent and even halogen bulbs aren’t as energy efficient as newer bulbs, the trade off is a brighter bulb that has a lower flicker rate.  I was listening to Dave Asprey’s podcast and he talked about using the slow motion video recording feature on smartphones to determine how frequently lights flicker.

Points to take home:

Light therapy (Phototherapy) is the method of using light as a way of  positively influencing mood , regulation of circadian rhythm, and healing health conditions

The practice of light therapy can be traced back thousands of years in ancient civilizations

Blue light (the type of light emitted from certain electronic devices) inhibits melatonin secretion from the pineal gland and promotes serotonin

When purchasing light bulbs for your home; it is important to consider factors like brightness (lumens) and flicker rate (Hz) to be able to have optimal lighting