With our increased soy consumption, soy allergies are on the rise as well. Soy allergies are listed among the top eight most common in the world. In many cases soy allergies begin with a reaction to soy-based infant formula, in some cases the children outgrow this allergy, in others the soy allergy persists into adulthood. Most often signs and symptoms of a soy allergy are mild, for example, hives, or itching, to moderate such as abdominal pain, and digestive troubles. In rare and extreme cases, soy allergy can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. Tests can confirm whether soy is the culprit, if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of an allergy.

Even if a person is not allergic to soy, there is emerging evidence that consumption of soy is not as healthy as we once assumed, even when it comes from an organic source. Soybeans are high in phytates, which block the absorption of minerals and lead to mineral deficiencies over time. They contain potent enzyme inhibitors, which lead to protein assimilation problems. These enzymes can only be deactivated through the process of fermentation, not regular cooking. This makes fermented soy products such as miso, natto, and tempeh, some of the best choices, if you can tolerate soy. Soy foods contain phytoestrogens, which can be disruptive to the endocrine system, and have been shown to depress thyroid function. These phytoestrogens are not removed through fermentation or other processing. While soy may be safe for occasional consumption, it is not advisable to rely on it as one’s main source of protein.

The most difficult aspect of managing a soy allergy is learning to read labels and ask about ingredients. After all, there are a host of food additives that are soy-based. Thankfully, there are many alternatives to soy in all of its forms, most of which are easy to digest and have many health benefits. Below are two lists, the first includes ingredients or products that are soy-based, the second includes soy alternatives. 

Soy-based food Products, ingredients and additives:

Akara

Bulking Agent

Boullion

Carob

Edamame

Emulsifiers (if unspecified)

Gum Arabic

Guar Gum

Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein or Hydrolyzed Protein (HVP)

Isoflavones

Isolated Soy Protein

Isolates

Kinako

Kouridofu

Lecithin

Miso

Mono and Diglycerides

Mono Sodium Glutamates (MSG)

Natto

Natural, Organic or Artificial Flavors (if the flavor isn’t listed in brackets beside it, then it is most likely soy-based)

Olean

Protein

Shoyu Sauce

Soja

Soy (anything with this term included)

Soybeans

Soy Oil (Crisco, Pam Spray etc)

Soy Protein Concentrate

Tamari

Tempeh

Teriyaki

Textured Soy Flour (TSF)

Textured Soy Protein (TSP)

Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP)

Thickener

Tofu

Tofutti

Vegetable Broth

Vegetable Gum

Vegetable Paste

Vegetable Protein

Vegetable Oil

Vegetable Shortening

Vegetable Starch

Vitamin E

Yuba

Instant coffee

Margarine

Canned tuna

Mayonnaise

Soy alternatives:

Oil/Margarine alternatives:

Coconut Oil

Coconut Butter

Olive Oil

Sesame Oil

Earth Balance Soy free margarine (Not all products are soy-free)

Non-Dairy Beverage Alternatives:

Rice milk

Oat Milk

Almond Milk

Coconut Milk

Hemp Milk

Protein (Vegetarian):

Beans such as black beans, pinto beans, black eyed peas, lentils, lima beans, etc. (Best combined with grain to make complete protein.)

Miso and Tempeh can be made with any bean of your choosing, for example, chickpea miso, or tempeh from black eyed peas. “Wild Fermentation” by Sandor Ellix Katz , and the accompanying website by the same name offer detailed recipes for making these wonderful, soy-free, fermented foods.

Eggs (If you don’t have an allergy)

Nuts/ Seeds (If you don’t have an allergy)

Green protein powders that contain algae such as spirulina and chlorella (make sure they don’t have hidden soy ingredients).

Soy sauce/Tamari:

Raw Coconut Amino’s seasoning sauce

Balsamic vinegar

Toasted Sesame Oil

References:

1. Fallon, Sally with Mary G. Enig Ph.D. Nourishing Traditions, Revised second edition. New Trends Publishing. Washington DC, 2001.

2. http://www.wildfermentation.com/

3. http://rfox.hubpages.com/hub/Soy-Allergy-and-Foods-To-Avoid

4. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/soy-allergy/DS00970

5. http://www.epa.gov/agriculture/ag101/cropmajor.html

When you consciously want to make changes, and you find that old habits are getting in your way, you experience stress because those old habits are held in place by your subconscious mind; and when the conscious and subconscious are in conflict, the subconscious will win. That’s because when we repeat behaviors for a period of time, the subconscious accepts the behavior as something you should continue doing, and as a result, it becomes almost second nature.

For instance, when you first started driving, you had to use your fully engaged conscious mind to coordinate everything; watch traffic lights and other cars, apply the brake gently, etc. Now, your subconscious mind is in charge of driving most of the time. You can talk on the hands-free cell phone, change the radio station, yell at the kids and drink your coffee. Hopefully not all at the same time, but you get the idea–your subconscious mind learned how to drive and is going through the motions, while your conscious mind does other things. Actions that once took all your conscious attention have now become habitual. Habits are patterns stored in the subconscious. They’re automatic responses.  That’s why the subconscious is the winner in any conflict between conscious and subconscious.

Habits can be our enemy or our greatest resource. They’re neutral. They’re not for us or against us. If we learned poor eating habits as a child, then it’s likely we’ll continue with those habits. If we learned to eat healthy, then we’ll probably continue with those habits.  If you’ve tried and failed to change any habit through will power alone, it isn’t always easy and that’s why. It takes about three weeks of conscious effort to create a new habit.  This leaves a lot of opportunity for things to go wrong.

During hypnosis, a shift of information (think electrical energy) occurs in the brain that cannot occur in a conscious state. This is why we can shift habits so quickly after hypnosis. However, intention plays a big part here. If you really want to change the habit, that desire is very powerful. But you still have free will. So if your spouse wants you to quit smoking, and you don’t want to, hypnosis isn’t going to help much. YOU have to want the change.

If you want to lose weight but you don’t want to change your eating habits, forget it.  Hypnosis can help you want to eat healthy and want to get some exercise, when before you didn’t want to do either, but it cannot force you to eat healthy or exercise. So, if you really want to change something in your life, you need to be willing to commit to the change that you desire.

If you have halfheartedly “tried” lots of things in the past and have failed, then your expectation might be that everything you ever “try” is doomed to fail as well. That expectation can be a type of hypnosis. If you continue telling yourself that nothing will ever work for you, then you’re programming your subconscious to make sure nothing works. What the subconscious expects to happen will happen. Don’t use the word “try” when you’re starting something new. That word means you have a psychological way out. You’ll “try” something, and if it doesn’t work, you’ll “try” something else. That way your subconscious mind never becomes convinced that you really want the change. Remember Yoda in Star Wars?  He said, “There is no try. There is only do or not do.” See how that’s such a different mindset? This can save you a lot of time and grief. If you’re not really committed, don’t start it. You’ll just fail again and in doing so, that will program your subconscious even deeper to believe that you can’t do it.

But if you really want to make some changes, enhance your life and increase self esteem, if you really want to get into the mindset and habit of “winning,” then programming your subconscious mind through hypnosis will do it. And as you succeed, the subconscious sees that you are doing it, and that desired behavior then becomes the new habit.

Hypnosis is a pleasant relaxing experience. It is said that a session of hypnosis is worth eight hours of solid sleep. Although hypnosis is not sleep, it might be described as mind awake, body asleep. Some people go very deep, and remember hearing only a few of the suggestions and directions they decided upon for their hypnosis. Others go into a very light relaxed state, but it doesn’t matter–each is highly effective.

In 1958, the American Medical Association approved hypnosis as a medical support tool and in 1960 the American Psychological Association endorsed hypnosis as a branch of psychology. Today, hypnosis is a highly effective medical tool used to relieve pain, assist with preparation for surgery and dentistry, and is widely used to stop smoking, lose weight, reduce stress, address allergies, eliminate PTSD, help increase memory, aid in self esteem, reduce love pain, and assist in dozens of additional health problems or social challenges.

Your subconscious mind is a wonderful resource when you use it to attain what you want. We don’t know everything about the subconscious mind, but science is learning more every day. Right now we know enough so that we can use it to help us live a wonderfully satisfying life of high self esteem–with a real experience of control and empowerment.

References:

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – -
1. Banyan, Calvin and Klein, Gerald. Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy. Abbott Publishing House, 2001.

2. Preston, Michael D. Hypnosis: Medicine of the Mind. Tiger Maple Press, 2001.

3. Simmerman, Tim. Medical Hypnotherapy: Principles and Methods of Practice. Peaceful Planet Press, 2007.

Women who hemorrhage with each period, and suffer anemia and accompanying fatigue, don’t have much recourse in their allopathic (regular drug and surgery) doctor’s office. The usual scenario is to check an ultrasound of the pelvis to spot fibroid tumors of the uterus, or malignant looking ovarian cysts, or it may be determined that the endometrial stripe is thickened.

The stripe is the lining of the uterus and should be between seven and 11 millimeters. If it is thicker, the patient is generally offered hormone therapy of a synthetic progestogen (Provera), or an endometrial ablation, which scrapes out the lining of the uterus, or birth control pills, which block hormone production. If all else fails, a hysterectomy is considered (let’s not mess around with this uterus any longer).

None of these therapies answer the causal question of “how did I get here in the first place?” Amazingly enough, low thyroid levels have long been related to menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding). However, the low thyroid condition does not always show up on lab tests. Things like environmental pollutants, which are endocrine (hormone) disruptors, can block the thyroid message at the tissue and organ level.

Patients with low body temperature (normal 1^st AM under arm temperatures should be 98 +/-.2 degrees), coldness, fatigue, dryness, falling hair, depression, puffy appearance, low blood pressure, low energy, infertility, difficulty losing weight, family history of low thyroid and previously having children (the fetal thyroid can make antibodies against the mother’s thyroid) are all potential low thyroid symptoms or causes.

Replacing natural animal thyroid is a good place to start for many women. Be cautious of “Synthroid,” as it is not bioidentical (like the body makes), and may block your own thyroid hormones. Look up a longer review of this issue on www.Mercola.com.

In addition, other therapies such as vitamin K₂ injections reduce abnormal bleeding quickly; as do other bioidentical hormones, herbals, homeopathic preparations and dietary adjustments.

Natural bioidentical progesterone creams or capsules balance estrogen dominance, which cause heavier periods and PMS, fibrocystic breast disease, endometriosis, ovarian cysts and fibroids. Fat makes estrogen and estrogen makes fat, a vicious circle, so weight loss can help. Many environmental pollutants mimic estrogen, bisphenol A (plastic water bottles) and other plastics, pesticides, and industrial wastes such as PCB’s, activate estrogen receptors.

Cleaning up your diet and eating organic foods and pure water is important for getting on top of menorrhagia. Soy products are also estrogenic and are generally not good to eat unless they are fermented for several years, as they are in Japan. Sugar, cow’s milk, wheat (gluten) also disrupt the intestinal tract, leading to stress and abnormal nutrient absorption.

Herbals such as Shepherd’s purse (Thalspi bursa capsularis pastoris) have long been used for heavy periods. One capsule of cayenne pepper (herbal grade), opened and stirred into a cup of warm water, can slow down bleeding quickly as it balances out blood flow in the body. Homeopathic Crocus, 6C or stronger, is great for hemorrhage with clots. Trillium Combination, from Marco Pharma, is great for any acute hemorrhage. Use 50 drops in water, followed by 30 to 40 drops five times daily.

There are over 200 homeopathic medicines for menorrhagia, which can be prescribed by your Homeopathic, Integrative practitioner.

References:

1. Williams, Robert, MD. (edited by). Textbook of Endocrinology. W.B. Saunders Company Publisher. 1974.
2. Murphy, Robin, N.D. Homeopathic Medical Repertory. Hahnemann Academy of North America Publisher. 1998.

A Documentary by Foster Gamble And Kimberly Carter Gamble

Foster Gamble is a direct heir to the Proctor & Gamble fortune. He was raised with what he calls “power and privilege,” but unlike what we might expect such wealthy individuals to do, he and his wife Kimberly have spent the last ten years researching reasons why there is such a wide discrepancy between the haves and the have-nots on this planet. They want to know why billions have nothing, and live in squalor and misery on less than a dollar a day, while a  tiny number of people at the very top of the pyramid live with incredible luxury, taking in more money each month than they could possibly spend in a lifetime. Because of their research, Foster and Kimberly have become convinced that there is an elite group of people working very hard to control the rest of us.

As they followed the trail of money and control, they came upon a story of power and manipulation, unlike anything they could have imagined. This resultant documentary shines a bright light on the activities of the families behind the big banking institutions, such as the Rothschilds, Rockefellers and Morgans, and how they have manipulated and influenced almost every area of life, from commerce and politics, to media and food production. Experts explain in simple terms how these wealthy and powerful families brought about our fractional banking system; how their banks create money out of thin air, then loan it to us and expect us to spend the rest of our lives paying it back, which we are well programmed to do. The video explores subjects such as the suppression of cures for cancer and other diseases, as Big Pharma focuses on developing chemicals for treatments, not cures. When someone is cured, they don’t need the meds any more. When you’re just treated, you need the meds for the rest of your life.

This documentary covers thirteen subjects, from New Energy technology to economics, science, spirituality, media, justice, liberty, health, environment, education, our programmed worldview,       relationships and even the suppression of information coming from ET/UFO contacts. Some of our top scientists, inventors, doctors, authors, activists, visionaries, and business leaders explain why their own experiences have shown them that something is terribly wrong with the way things are going, not only in America, but all over the world.

After years of researching these subjects and interviewing experts, Foster and Kimberly Gamble have become convinced, along with thousands of other people that the elite international group is well along on their agenda of total control.  It has become increasingly clear that they have the means, the motive and the opportunity to establish an agenda for total global rule. You may have heard of it as the “New World Order.” Before you dismiss this as just another “conspiracy theory,” be aware that you have been programmed to do just that.

And be aware that the information in this documentary is very different from just an “opinion piece,” as it includes information from some of the top people in very diverse fields, people who can see what’s happening and have the courage to speak out. That takes a lot of courage, for many who have spoken out have simply disappeared, or have had their homes and labs raided, and their inventions confiscated. They have had their funding mysteriously cut or were denied tenure, or actually lost their jobs and livelihoods.

In the early 1900’s, the brilliant scientist Nicola Tesla developed the ability to transmit electrical energy through the air like radio waves, where they could be picked up by an antenna. But right before his demonstration to the world, banker J.P. Morgan shut down Tesla’s funding, and the project was terminated. Morgan owned many copper mines and was making a fortune from all the copper wires used to conduct electricity. The suppression continues to this day.  The U.S. Patent Office seized over 5000 alternative energy inventions in the name of “national security.” We could have been freely accessing a universally abundant energy resource, but the sale of energy is very big business, so the corporate and financial elite who control the conventional sources are not about to let anyone enjoy free energy, no matter how poor or elderly they may be.

But New Energy is just one example. Suppression reaches into every sector of free thinking, where the elite are tightening their control.

This plan is not a new development. It’s been going on for decades in America and hundreds of years in Europe. In 1913, Woodrow Wilson said, “Since I entered politics, I have chiefly had men’s views confided to me privately. Some of the biggest men in the United States, in the fields of commerce and manufacture, are afraid of something. They know there is a power somewhere so organized, so subtle, so watchful, so interlocked, so complete, so pervasive, that they better not speak above a whisper when they speak in condemnation of it.”

This documentary and supporting website will be the first step for many of us in becoming aware of what’s going on. For others who have had well-founded suspicions, and have been researching and discussing this for years, the video is a huge confirmation, a breath of fresh air, and the website is a vast repository of information that it would have taken individuals decades to collect, even if we had had the time. The video has been dubbed in ten languages and will soon add four more. Ideas regarding what we can do, and what is already being done to counteract this plan, are listed on the video and website. The website at www.thrivemovement.com presents extensive documentation of everything in the film, as well as additional information, quotes, video clips, graphics and photos. Research is ongoing and new information is constantly being included.

It would be easy to follow your programming and dismiss this as just another “wacko idea,” but there are too many people who have been aware of these activities for years. This DVD is being reviewed by publications all over the country and is quietly going viral. Burying our heads in the sand and being described as “sheeple” is no longer an option. If you have been harmed by the housing collapse, the slow economy and the resultant dearth of jobs, you’re experiencing the American part of this global takeover plan.

But America is a tough nut to crack, with our culture of self-defense and love of liberty. During WWII, the plan of the Germans and Japanese was to conquer Europe and Asia first, then attack America in a pincer movement coming from East and West at the same time. America was known to be the last bastion of freedom and resistance. That conquest didn’t work out because we got into the fight early enough to foil their plans. So, becoming aware of what’s being planned for us now is the first step. Of course we’re not looking at armed invasion from without. That’s what makes all this so hard to grasp. It’s a takeover from within. So, become informed and then decide what you can do personally to regain your freedom. There are specific ideas on the website.

Here’s to the amazing personal strength, positive energy and determination of Americans to regain the freedoms that, by design, are slowly being taken away from us by regulation; by the giant corporations that run our country; by economic hardship fostered by the banking elite; by programming through the corporate media and through constant electronic surveillance. Order your copy  from the www.thrivemovement.com website.   

Foster Gamble is a graduate of Princeton University. He lives in Santa Cruz, California with his wife, Kimberly Carter Gamble.

Written By Rachael L. Scala

I don’t have to tell my fellow X-chromosome bearers that we love to spend time together twice; this custom is pre-programmed and deeply valued among generations. Where do you go to find an eatery conducive to a friends’ evening out; or celebrating our mothers; or spending a lively moms’ brunch with the kiddos? After a glance at the following three stops, you’ll want to plan all three.

Z Bistro – 725 Basque Way, Carson City, NV 89706; 775-885-2828. Lunch: Tue-Fri, 11-2:30, Dinner: Thu-Sat, 5:30-9, http://atzbistro.com

Family-owned Z Bistro is a dazzling gem in Southeast Carson City, featuring authentic French cuisine on a rotating menu. Opened six years ago by Gilles and Tina, ze charming bistro is sure to please mature groups, and their foodie daughters. Family-style tables allow enough separation for deeper conversations, yet enhance a community dining spirit. The charming yellow interior with tasteful décor is French at heart, emphasizing the artful food. Tina amiably welcomes all guests, treating them as dear friends whom she wishes to delight with her husband’s culinary delicacies.

The menu, sophisticated and approachable, contains lighter fare that is seasonal and responsibly sourced. Gilles’ creativity shines since it changes weekly, for example, this time the nuanced pâté is smoky with a hint of maple. Lunch is peppered with crêpes, satiating Niçoise salads, and the acclaimed onion soup, laden with Gruyere. At dinner, share a bowl of mussels in lavender and fennel broth alongside crisp frites in garlicky aioli. Don’t skip the poached pears in port, with crème anglaise for dessert, decadent, not overindulgent. Enjoy with house-made orange wine, a limoncello-esque aperitif. Whether you seek a quaint lunch or a sumptuous dinner, Z Bistro gives “cred” to Carson City’s unique food scene.

Squeeze In (South Reno) – 25 Foothill Rd, Reno, NV 89511; 775-853-6090. Breakfast and lunch Mon-Sun, 7am-2pm, http://squeezein.com

The sister restaurant of two other locations, family-owned Squeeze In of South Reno beckons larger groups and families of all ages to revel in hearty brunch. In light of the coziness of the original stop in Truckee, South Reno’s location has more room to spread out. Let the kids draw on the walls as you pour over the large menu, with over 50 omelettes, share-worthy sandwiches, and the veggie-heavy HOP options (Healthy Obsession Program). No items on this menu are prepared with oil, and toast is un-buttered. Breakfast potatoes, albeit delicious, are easily substituted with fruit or tomatoes with cottage cheese.

You are sure to feel accommodated and relaxed here. The cheerful staff happily lends a hand with creating a perfect brunch, and making the kids happy. Teddy bear pancakes fly out of the kitchen first so the kids aren’t free to toggle with the eclectic décor once they tire of writing on the walls. You may relish in the nourishing, guilt-free Shi’s Superfood Scramble, made of egg whites and a plethora of vegetables, or, share a burrito with your significant other if you’re past breakfast mode already. Bottom line–the Squeeze In will leave everyone in your party happy.

Freshies – 3330 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150; 530-542-3630. Lunch, http://freshiestahoe.com

Celebrate your closest friends in a laid-back, health-conscious venue, Freshies in South Lake Tahoe. Referred to as “grown up Hawaiian with a twist,” the exotic menu is nutritious and dense. Opened in 2000 by Melodie and Erik, Freshies transforms oft-unhealthy Hawaiian cuisine into wholesome and flavor-rich masterpieces. Menu items are comprised of organic produce and chicken, locally sourced wines, and is also entirely gluten-free (save the homemade pasta). If you’re indecisive like me, order a few things to share.

In the summer, you’ll have plenty of room on the upstairs deck to tuck into the famed fish tacos (try your fish blackened), while sipping on Pliny the Elder with your girlfriends. Start with quinoa and sweet potato cakes with sweet chili sauce or portabella mushroom curry. Seeking greens? Salads are available in half portions and are still quite sizeable; try the vibrant Crunch Salad with your choice of fish. Though limited on space, you’ll feel welcomed and well attended to. Freshies has been a local’s favorite for years, for good reasons. Check out some of their events such as the Lake Tahoe Women’s Center fundraiser, where cooks and servers switch places for the night; or, their local’s appreciation night, in which the winners of the drawing dine for free on the deck over summer.

Written By Rev. Jack R. Elliott, Author and Spiritual Life Coach |

New Thought philosopher Ernest Holmes poses this question: “How can we expect to realize God (Spirit) in the emptiness of space if we have refused to see God in those we meet?  And how can we find God in those we meet and in the events that transpire around us unless we have first discovered God (Spirit) at the center old our being?”

Dear Rev. Jack, I believe that God exists and I know that I’m supposed to “see the God in others” and I’m okay with that. It seems compassionate and kind; but when someone else says that they see the God in me–well that feels wrong to me. I want to believe that God works through me, exists within me, but how do I know that it’s so? – Deb

Dear Deb, Ernest Holmes would say, it is only when we awaken to the idea that God is within each and every one of us that we can be open to seeing God working through everything and everyone around us. Therefore, if you see it in others, then you are at least open to the possibility (idea) that God does indeed work through you and does indeed exist within your total being.

I’m going to give you a task. Write down the name of five people who you admire.  They can be dead or alive; famous or not-so-famous. Then, I want you to write down at least five adjectives that describe why you admire each person. When completed, you’ll have at least 25 adjectives, and it’s perfectly alright if some words repeat. For example, one of my high school students chose Mother Theresa as one of the people she admired and she picked the adjectives; dedicated, thoughtful, self-sacrificing, compassionate, and loving to describe her.

Once you’ve selected all five people, and have written the adjectives to describe each of them, I want you to circle any of the words that repeat. Perhaps you’ll notice that you used an adjective such as “loving” to describe three of your heroes or heroines. Here’s how your list might look:

[Example Graph]

Now, I’m going to ask you to finish the following sentence stem by inserting at least five of the words that repeated themselves when you described your hero or heroine. Here is an example using the graphic above:

“I am loving, compassionate, determined, faithful, and self-sacrificing”

Once you’ve written your sentence, read your sentence over and over again. That sentence is the demonstration of God working through you, and existing within your total being. You see Deb, you would not be able to see it in others if it were not true for you. What you admire in others–the adjectives that you’d use to describe the gifts that others possess–are the gifts that God (Spirit) has bestowed upon you.

You are indeed an example of God’s best work. And if you find yourself “being human,” and forgetting “who you are” for a moment, return to your sentence stem and say it aloud. Say it daily, hourly or with every breath–just say it until you believe it!

Thanks, Rev. Jack

Rev. Jack R. Elliott is the President of Heart and Soul Center of Light in Oakland, CA.  He was ordained in 1985 as a Religious Science Minister with the Center of Spiritual Living (Science of Mind/Religious Science).

An old Aussie recipe, finicky, but worth the effort; take care not to over-bake.

INGREDIENTS:

½ C. butter

½ C. sugar

½ C. golden corn syrup or light molasses

½ C. flour, sifted

pinch of salt

1 T. brandy or extract

1 t. ground ginger

½ pint heavy cream, whipped; or “cool whip”

HOW TO PREPARE:

Preheat oven to 325 F.

1. In saucepan over medium heat, melt together butter, sugar and corn syrup or molasses.

2. Cool slightly.

3. Sift flour with ginger; stir slowly into buttered mixture, finally adding brandy or extract.

4. Drop a teaspoon at a time, with plenty of space between (6 drops per cookie sheet) onto a well greased cookie sheet.

5. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes until golden brown.

6. Remove one at a time from cookie sheet with thin metal spatula; roll each biscuit around the handle of a wooden spoon. Let cool. Remove from handle and set aside. (If the snaps get too hard, pop them back in the oven for a few seconds, then remove and roll). These can be stored in an airtight container for a few days.

7. Just before serving, snaps can be filled with whipped cream from a piping bag with a small star nozzle and piped into each end of the biscuit. OR pressurized (real) whipped cream can be used.

Yes, I know, most folks would think this is an oxymoron! Years ago, high in the mountains, both kids and turnips grew extremely well. However, the kids turned up their noses at the turnips, so I had to get creative, as they were a good keeping staple in my root cellar….the turnips, not the kids! Of course, the kids liked cheese of any kind, so I decided this was where the twain would meet!

INGREDIENTS:

Two large turnips, yellow or white.

SAUCE:

2 C. whole milk or 2 C. half and half (for richer, creamier sauce)

2 heaping T. corn starch

½ t. salt

¼ t. paprika

¼ t. white pepper

1½ C. cheddar cheese, grated (or your preference)

1 T. mixed dried organic parsley and celery leaves, crushed for garnish

HOW TO PREPARE TURNIPS:

1. Wash and peel 2 large turnips, yellow or white.
2. Cut into 1 – 1 ½” chunks; cover with water and boil until tender.
3. Drain and set aside in large bowl.

HOW TO PREPARE SAUCE:

1. In medium saucepan over medium heat, combine cold milk and corn starch, whisking to blend. Cook, stirring often until mixture thickens.
2. Add salt, paprika, pepper and grated cheese; continue cooking over low heat for a few minutes.
3. Pour cheese sauce over turnips, mix and place in a serving bowl, sprinkling with garnish. Serve immediately.

Dr. Brian Clement is the medical director of the Hippocrates Health Institute, which is one of the world’s oldest complimentary health centers. Dr. Clement started with the organization in 1975, and has been a director since 1980. Here he shares his considerable knowledge of how to improve your health. The primary focus of this interview is on detoxification, because this is an area that Dr. Clement has great experience with. The full program that Hippocrates offers is called the “Life Change Program,” and runs for 21 days.

“The main thrust of what we offer is not all of the nice things I spoke about. It’s education,” Dr. Clement says. “My objective as a director is to get people to not need me, the Institute, or you. We want people to be educated, to be totally responsible for their life and lifestyle. And in doing so, one of the primary biological factors is you have to eliminate waste from your body.

… [A]ll of us live in an invisible cesspool, and we don’t know it. The air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat, the clothing we wear…[O]ur latest book, Killer Clothes, tells you about how we have direct scientific evidence that clothing causes cancer and a wide array of other diseases. It’s the petrochemicals. So all of these is taken into account here…

Not only are we cleansing the body through large amounts of raw food, but also through infrared technologies, Vibrason units… lymphatic massage, deep tissue technology, psychotherapy… and colonic therapy…”

There can be little doubt that toxic heavy metals and chemicals in our environment contribute to the vast majority of cancers we see today. Ditto for other chronic debilitating diseases such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.

“We know that… for every 17 micrograms of lead in your body, your IQ is reduced by 10 points. Now, think of that. How many of us would have been much brighter if we didn’t grow up in a time where they used lead paint or lead in the automobile fumes? So, we are detoxifying disease-causing elements from the body,” Dr. Clement says. Lack of exercise also compounds the problem, as exercise is a natural form of detoxification.

For more info, go to http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2012/03/21/dr-clement-on-detoxification.aspx?e_cid=20120321_DNL_art_1.

*This article was reprinted with permission from www.mercola.com.

Spring is really sprung when the green tips of asparagus push up through the moist loam of my garden. Asparagus in any form is exciting to my palette, but recently a friend of mine passed on a quick and simple recipe that will certainly be a fav from now on! I couldn’t resist adding mushrooms to the mix, and a few sliced almonds, too.

INGREDIENTS:

11/2 to 2 lbs asparagus; washed and cut in 1” pieces

1 lb. meadow mushrooms, sliced

2 T. butter

2 T. balsamic vinegar

2 T. Dijon mustard

½ lb sliced mushrooms, any variety (optional)

¼ C. sliced almonds (optional)

HOW TO PREPARE:

1. Put butter, vinegar and mustard in a large, heavy skillet over medium high heat. When melted stir in asparagus pieces.
2. Increase to high heat, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes.
3. Continue on high heat, adding mushrooms until they’re tender and asparagus is slightly tender, but with some “crunch” to it!
4. Throw in the almonds, stirring for about a minute. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Are you properly using ergonomics at work and home to help your posture and health? If you’re not, you’re increasing the possibility of pinched nerves, unbalanced muscles (one side over-developed compared to the other), repetitive strain injuries, and degenerative disease. These symptoms increase every day that you don’t apply the use of proper ergonomics.

So what is ergonomics?  At its simplest definition ergonomics literally means the science of work. So ergonomists, i.e. the practitioners of ergonomics, study work, how work is done and how to work better.

What is proper posture? In recent years, ergonomists have attempted to define postures that minimize unnecessary static work, and reduce the forces acting on the body. All of us could significantly reduce our injury risk if we adhered to the following ergonomic principles:

• All work activities should permit the worker to adopt several different, but equally healthy and safe postures.
• Where muscular force has to be exerted, it should be done by the largest appropriate muscle groups available.
• Work activities should be performed with the joints at about mid-point of their range of movement. This applies particularly to the head, trunk and upper limbs.

Here is a good example for sitting at a computer or desk.

Conventional wisdom holds that there is such a thing as a “correct” posture. In reality, posture change seems to be as important as posture correctness, especially with regard to the intervertebral discs in the spine. These discs lose fluid over the course of the day because of the weight they carry. It appears that posture change is essential to help pump fluid back into the discs. People who stand all day tend to have back problems–but so do people who sit still all day.

One of the most important points of ergonomics is that injury comes from sustained stress. The body can handle a little bit of a stress for a short period of time without much in the way of problems.

Stop reading right now and take the time to just notice how your body feels. Do you notice any discomfort or stress in your neck, shoulders, back, or lower body? Try fidgeting into a more comfortable position. Next time you notice stress, fidget again or do some stretches. Medical tip: Repeat that process for the rest of your life.

So when do you NOT want to be ergonomically correct? This is only done with the help of your chiropractor, medical doctor or physical therapist. If you have an abnormal curve or scoliosis of the spine, due to improper posture in the past or injuries, then you will want to position yourself so that you’re pushing into the curve. For example, if you have a curve in your neck to the right side (high side of curve) then you will do better setting your computer and main work area to the right side of you. This will make your body push into the curve; this will help slow down or stop your abnormal curve progression. If you’re getting chiropractic care, along with home/work exercises and stretches to help correct your posture, then your repair and recovery time will be quicker.

References:

1.  www.erogonomics.about.com

2.  www.ergonomics.org

3.  www.Office-ergo.com

This “pie” has been a favourite of all my kids for about 25 years. A dear friend of mine from Germany shared this with me many years ago, and when we get together for a special meal, this is the taste treat we all look forward to….excellent hot or as a cold leftover snack the next day! Quiche-like, but not as many eggs in the filling.

INGREDIENTS:

DOUGH

2 C. unbleached white flour

2/3 C. butter

1 tsp. salt

1 egg

3 T sour cream

Knead dough for about 10 minutes; let stand about 15 minutes. Roll out on floured board to just a little thicker than you would a regular pie crust. Press into 2 8×9 rectangular pans, or 1 10×17 jelly roll pan. Chill for about an hour. In the meantime, prepare….

FILLING

2 C. sautéed onion

¾ C. sour cream

3 eggs

¼ t. nutmeg

¼ t. paprika

¼ t salt….unless you add ¾ C. crisp bacon, crumbled (then omit salt)

½ C. guyere cheese, grated

½ C. emmenthal cheese, grated

Mix all ingredients together in large bowl; spoon over chilled crust. Bake at 400 F for about 35 minutes.

Hoop houses are burgeoning across Nevada as local farmers continue to benefit from increased vegetable production and sales. Hoop houses are the newest trend in local agriculture. The simple greenhouse structures provide shelter from the wind and cold temperatures, resulting in a longer growing season, increased harvests and increased profits for commercial producers.

To meet demand for training in this innovative technique, the WNC Specialty Crop Institute offers a Low-cost Hoop House Construction Workshop on Friday, May 4, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., at Smith Valley High School, 20 Day Lane, in Smith. Cost is $35 for those registering by April 25, $45 after April 25. Lunch is included. Seating is limited, and registration is required.

Featured speaker Ray Johnson of Custom Gardens Organic Farm will lead a hands-on demonstration of how to build a low-cost hoop house, constructed primarily of PVC tubing, precut rebar, greenhouse plastic and 2×4 boards. Developed by Utah State University, the design is popular among growers who are interested in hoop house production without a large financial investment. Johnson will also discuss growing techniques and planting schedules for hoop houses.

Information/registration: Ann Louhela -775-351-2551 or louhelaa@wnc.edu.

ARBONNE INTERNATIONAL- ALL NATURAL SKINCARE, HEALTH AND WELLNESS PRODUCTS. What makes Arbonne different from the other brands out on the market? It’s designed in Switzerland, and made in the United States. Scientists and Doctors have been developing botanical and all natural ingredients to make the best quality products since 1975. I am an independent consultant in Sparks NV. I offer consultations for anyone wanting to improve their skin or prevent the signs of aging for men and women. Also anyone wanting to lose weight with our get fit program using gluten free, vegan products. Angela Lively at 775-351-5191 or livelyskin@yahoo.com

NEVADA’S OUTDOOR LIFE COMES INDOORS. Nevada’s tradition of outdoor adventure is available all year long in Under the Stars. When guests enter this gallery they feel like they’ve stepped outdoors. They’re greeted by the sounds of nature and changing light treatment that takes them from day to night and back again. A tent and a vast cave set the stage for exploration of the natural history of the state and how to enjoy it. There’s also fishing for Cui-Ui and Lahontan Cut Throat Trout. To learn more go to: Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum, 490 S. Center Street · Reno, NV, 775-786-1000

At the turn of the 20th century (1900), U.S. women were most likely to die from infectious diseases and complications of pregnancy and childbirth. Today, in the first decade of the 21st century, 63 percent of American women die as a result of the chronic conditions of heart disease, cancer, and stroke. Heart disease leads the pack.

Improving women’s health, and increasing awareness and understanding of women’s health issues, is the task of the Office on Women’s Health (OWH), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. OWH is celebrating the thirteenth annual National Women’s Health Week this year from May 13–19^th as a way to accomplish its mission. The 2012 celebration starts on Mother’s Day and ends on the following Saturday. However, women’s healthcare has a therapeutic ally that cannot be confined to a one-week national celebration. It’s a proven women’s health enhancer and stress reliever–laughter.

Laughter: A Heart-Healthy Activity

It’s been said that laughter is the best medicine. A growing body of research supports the theory that laughter has therapeutic value and may be an antidote to heart disease.

In 2000 and again in 2005, a team of researchers at University of Maryland Center for Preventive Cardiology, led by the Center’s director Dr. Michael Miller, released study results which point to a strong connection between laughter and cardiovascular health.

In 2000, Dr. Miller led a research team that conducted a study on the humor response comparison of 300 people. Fifty percent had suffered a heart attack or undergone coronary artery bypass surgery. Fifty percent were healthy, age-matched participants without heart disease. Miller said that the most significant finding was that “people with heart disease responded less humorously to everyday life situations. They generally laughed less, even in positive situations, and they displayed more anger and hostility.” He went on to say that perhaps laughter should be added to the list of recommended behaviors known to reduce the risk of heart disease, like exercising, not smoking and eating foods low in saturated fat.

In 2005, Miller and his team of researchers released the results of another study. Using laughter-provoking movies to gauge the effect of emotions on cardiovascular health, the study showed that laughter appears to cause the tissue that forms the inner lining of blood vessels, the endothelium, to dilate or expand in order to increase blood flow.

The results of their study point to a strong connection between laughter and cardiovascular health. “The magnitude of change we saw in the endothelium is similar to the benefit we might see with aerobic activity, but without the aches, pains and muscle tension associated with exercise,” says Dr. Miller. “We don’t recommend that you laugh and not exercise, but we do recommend that you try to laugh on a regular basis. Thirty minutes of exercise three times a week and 15 minutes of laughter on a daily basis is probably good for the vascular system.”

Laughter: A Guaranteed Stress Reliever

Stress at work is a growing problem for women in the workplace. In one survey, 60 percent of employed women cited stress as their number one problem at work. Furthermore, levels of stress-related illness are nearly twice as high for women as for men. Once again, researchers are telling us that laughter has many physiological and emotional benefits that help to combat stress related illness. “When you are laughing, you discharge tension associated with four primary negative emotions–depression, anxiety, fear and anger,” says Dr. William Fry, a behavioral scientist, psychiatrist and Emeritus Associate Clinical Professor at the Stanford University School of Medicine of Stanford University.

Dr. Lee Berk, a pioneer researcher studying positive emotions/behaviors and their biochemical/physiological effects on stress hormones and immune system components in the field of Psychoneuroimmunology at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, says “Laughter can relax the muscles, increase alertness and memory, reduce pain, lessen emotional stress and lower blood pressure.”

With all the physiological and psychological health benefits evidenced by solid scientific research, leading-edge organizations in the Triad are embracing therapeutic laughter activities to reduce stress and enhance quality of work life for staff.

Employee Wellness at High Point Regional Health System (HPRHS), asked Certified Laughter Leader Marilyn Sprague-Smith to help employees put laughter back in their lives. “Marilyn is showing us how to use laughter to lighten up our mental workload and bring a sense of joy, happiness and harmony into our daily activities,” says Sue Cumpston, Employee Wellness Coordinator for the health system. The program was brought to HPRHS as a community outreach service of Unity’s laughter club program.

You, too, can choose to let laughter be your therapeutic ally for increased health and wellness. Get involved in National Women’s Health Week by creating a personal health and wellness plan. Remember Dr. Miller’s heart-healthy prescription, “thirty minutes of exercise three times a week and 15 minutes of laughter daily.” Your heart, and every system in your body, will thank you.

Marilyn Sprague-Smith, M.Ed. is an award-winning consultant, trainer, professional speaker, author and certified laughter leader. She is one of only six people in the world authorized by The World Laughter Tour to deliver laughter leader certification training. For more information visit www.miraclesmagicinc.com, or go to www.worldlaughtertour.com.

Springtime blossoms fill the air with soft, sweet scents; while painting the vast green covering with an array of color. With different shades and sizes, buds and leaves, the blossom sends a message that the renewal of spring has sprung!

Cherry blossoms, for instance, are quite symbolic in Japan. They represent mortality, with their amazing beauty and quick death. For this reason, they are often used in Japanese art, music and film; depicting a metaphor of the cycle or nature of life.

As blossoms fade and wither, they leave an incredible legacy behind. For they do not bring down the life of the plant itself, they merely shed their annual skin. Blossoms represent the beauty and innocence within, and give promise to a new year of growth.