Monthly Archives: January 2016

Fat burning morning drink

 

The lemon helps to break up mucus, helping to clear your sinuses that can be a significant benefit for allergy sufferers or those who have a cold or flu.

  • Restoration of the alkaline acid balance in your body which will relieve any issues that you are suffering due your consumption of a diet that is high in acid-producing foods.
  • This beverage will help to remove toxins from the body.
  • Clears up the skin and gives it a noticeably healthy glow.
  • Can help to break down fats in the body which will result in noticeable weight loss.
  • This beverage will lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels.
  • Feeds the liver and detoxifies it at the same time.
  • Strengthens the immune system so you do not get sick as often.
  • Gives your body a lighter feeling.
  • Boosts up the metabolism and gives you more energy to get on with your day.
  • Purifies the colon which makes it much easier to improve the digestive process and allow your body to absorb nutrients more easily. Colon purification helps to clear up the skin and improve its appearance.
  • Can effectively lower high blood pressure.
  • Helps your digestive system and allows you to eliminate waste more regularly and efficiently.
  • Pushes your lymph system into balance that can assist with the various daily functions of the body. It can also help to fight infection and to balance the body fluids.
  • Since ancient times, India’s Ayurvedic herbalists have used turmeric as a natural cardiovascular and liver health tonic and to promote joint comfort and mobility. Modern science has revealed that turmeric contains unique phytochemicals known as curcuminoids, which have powerful antioxidant effects and boost the activity of the body’s endogenous antioxidant enzymes, delivering a one-two punch to knock out free radicals. Our capsules feature a potent 600 mg of certified organic turmeric to ensure optimal bioavailability.
  • Ceylon cinnamon has a sweeter, more delicate flavor than cassia does, which may make it preferable for flavoring desserts and lighter dishes. But the more important distinction may be the presence of a chemical called coumarin, a natural plant chemical that acts as a blood thinner. This chemical is present in much higher concentrations in cassia than in Ceylon cinnamon. It is contraindicated for anyone taking prescription blood thinners. Coumarin has also been shown to be toxic to the liver and kidneys, and it may also be carcinogenic, which can negate any health benefits of cinnamon.

 

Here is the recipe for this amazing beverage:

Use 12 ounces of warm filtered water (not HOT water).  Hot water will break down many of the essential properties of the majority of these ingredients including enzymes, minerals and vitamins.

Add juice from a half of a lemon.

Add in 2 tablespoons of Bragg’s apple cider vinegar

Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the beverage

Add a 1/4 teaspoon of  Ceylon cinnamon

Add a dash of turmeric

Directions:

  • Always drink this first thing in the morning on an empty stomach when you first wake up.
  • Stir all of the ingredients together and drink the beverage immediately.
  • It is a good idea to drink this concoction through a straw so that you do not get all of the acids on your teeth that can cause damage, especially if you are drinking this every day.
  • Don’t eat anything else for 10 – 15 minutes so that you allow your body a chance to absorb all of the ingredients.

When you first begin drinking this mixture you may find it very tart and difficult to consume.  If necessary, add in a teaspoon of raw organic honey that will add a little bit of sweetness.  As you start to get used to the taste you can start to reduce the honey until you no longer need to add the honey.  This drink has a lot of major health benefits, and your body is going to appreciate it.  You may not like it at first, but once you make it a habit of drinking this daily, you are well on your way to enjoying the health benefits that this elixir provides.

 

 

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Disclaimer

The information and recipes contained in blog is based upon the research and the personal experiences of the author. It’s for entertainment purposes only. Every attempt has been made to provide accurate, up to date and reliable information. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author is not engaging in the rendering of legal, financial, medical or professional advice. By reading this blog, the reader agrees that under no circumstance the author is not responsible for any loss, direct or indirect, which are incurred by using this information contained within this blog. Including but not limited to errors, omissions or inaccuracies. This blog is not intended as replacements from what your health care provider has suggested.  The author is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any of the suggestions, preparations or procedures discussed in this blog. All matters pertaining to your health should be supervised by a health care professional. I am not a doctor, or a medical professional. This blog is designed for as an educational and entertainment tool only. Please always check with your health practitioner before taking any vitamins, supplements, or herbs, as they may have side-effects, especially when combined with medications, alcohol, or other vitamins or supplements.  Knowledge is power, educate yourself and find the answer to your health care needs. Wisdom is a wonderful thing to seek.  I hope this blog will teach and encourage you to take leaps in your life to educate yourself for a happier & healthier life. You have to take ownership of your health.

Please Like and share my blog!

21 Health Myths keep us dazed and confused

Every day in the news, we see health stories that can create confusion, uncertainty , fear, and self-doubt. They advertise , a particular food is the best thing  in the world for  you — and the next we’re told to run for the hills.

I really enjoy reading questions from my viewers , other bloggers and from the online community about  something they’ve read or heard. They’re not sure how to take  which health fears are founded on evidence — and which ones need to be banished.

To help, I’m sharing some of the most common health tips I’ve heard that I think are worth questioning: Hope you enjoy!

1.”We need dairy for strong bones.”  

We certainly have seen some creative advertising schemes that has been successful at convincing us that dairy is this extremely important thing that we must have tons of, or else we’ll get all sorts of nutrient deficiencies and diseases.

The truth is, you don’t necessarily need milk or cheese or yogurt to have strong bones. In the good ole U.S., dairy consumption rates are amongst the highest in the world — and yet we also have some of the highest rates of osteoporosis. Studies have suggested that drinking more milk doesn’t protect against fractures.

Yes,  calcium is essential to our bones. But no one mineral is an island. Vitamins and minerals work in synergy: It’s not just calcium we need but also magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin D, vitamin K, and more.

Plant-based sources of calcium such as sesame seeds, kale, black strap molasses, turnip greens, hemp milk, almond butter, great northern beans,  almonds, dark leafy greens, rhubarb, broccoli, black berries, oranges, dried apricots, dates , artichoke’s, navy beans and seaweed are more bioavailable to us — meaning we are better able to digest, absorb, and use the calcium in those foods.

2.”Avoid saturated fat because it causes heart disease.”

We spent the last few decades terrified that fat would make us fat and lead to cardiovascular disease. This led to the low-fat and fat-free food craze — which really just replaced fat with sugar and refined carbohydrates.

We’ve now learned that we had it wrong: sugary foods and refined carbs increase our risk of heart disease, while a recent meta-analysis concluded that the nutritional warnings we had received about fats decades ago was unfounded.

In fact, good fats contain a multitude of health benefits, including nourishing the brain and liver and improving our mood. It’s the source of fat that is key: Choose clean, organic sources from either animals or plants to reap the health rewards.

3.”Stay out of the sun and always use sunscreen.”

We’ve long been told that we should avoid the sun and slather ourselves in sunblock when we’re exposed to its “death rays.”

But some sun is incredibly important to our overall health. It’s our primary source of vitamin D, which is crucial to bone health, the immune system, and hormone production. Although vitamin D is found in small amounts in some foods, 80 to 90 percent of our supply comes from being exposed to the sun’s rays.

That means wearing a film of sunscreen can block that crucial absorption from happening. And don’t even get me started on sunscreen itself, what with its toxic chemicals.

Want to enjoy the sun and protect your skin? Covering up well, getting sunshine during off-peak hours, eating sun-protective foods, and whipping up a batch of homemade natural sunscreen are all simple, natural, and effective sun protection strategies.

4. “We have to eat meat to get our protein”

Man has historically been carnivorous.  But today, due to delicate stomachs, environmental concerns and an ever-expanding empathy for our four-legged friends, vegetarianism and veganism are becoming increasingly popular.  Yet many critics claim a diet without meat is less nutritionally-sound than one that includes it, primarily due to a dearth of protein.

Protein is essential to existence.  Hair, skin and muscle are primarily derived from protein.  In fact, a protein deficiency can lead to fatigue, muscle weakness, hair loss and a variety of other maladies.

Nuts, seeds, beans, spinach, soy, quinoa, broccoli, oats, hemp seeds, tofu, chick peas, chia seeds, green peas, nut butters, leafy greens, lentils, almonds, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, hummus, avocado, dairy

5. ” you need salt for iodine”

The thyroid gland synthesizes thyroid hormones and iodine is an essential trace mineral that is crucial for the thyroid to function properly. Eating foods rich in iodine ensures the thyroid is able to manage metabolism, detoxification, growth and development.

Research has shown that a lack of dietary iodine may lead to enlargement of the thyroid gland, lethargy, fatigue, weakness of the immune system, slow metabolism, autism, weight gain and possibly even mental states such as anxiety and depression.

Sea veggies, cranberries, organic yogurt, navy beans , strawberries, raw cheese, potatoes.shrimp, turkey breast, tuna, eggs

Be aware of your required iodine intake, based on age and gender. Depending on your age and gender, you will need to ensure you are getting a certain amount of iodine each day.

If you are 0-6 months: you need 110 micrograms per day (mcg/day) of iodine.

  • If you are 7-12 months: 130 mcg/day.
  • If you are 1-3 years old: 90 mcg/day.
  • If you are 4-8 years old: 90 mcg/day.
  • If you are 9-13 years old: 120 mcg/day.
  • If you are male and 14 and older: 150 mcg/day.
  • If you are female and 14 and older: 150 mcg/day.
  • Women who are pregnant or breast feeding need higher amounts of iodine. Speak to your doctor about exactly how much iodine you should be getting every day based on your age, gender, and other factors, such as pregnancy

6.”Soy products are adequate substitutes for meat and dairy products”

There is little doubt that the billion-dollar soy industry has profited immensely from the anti-cholesterol, anti-meat gospel of current nutritional thought. Whereas, not so long ago, soy was an Asian food primarily used as a condiment, now a variety of processed soy products proliferate in the North American market. While the traditionally fermented soy foods of miso, tamari, tempeh and natto are definitely healthful in measured amounts, the hyper-processed soy “foods” that most vegetarians consume are not. –

Processed soy foods are also rich in trypsin inhibitors, which hinder protein digestion. Textured vegetable protein (TVP), soy “milk” and soy protein powders, popular vegetarian meat and milk substitutes, are entirely fragmented foods made by treating soybeans with high heat and various alkaline washes to extract the beans’ fat content or to neutralize their potent enzyme inhibitors  These practices completely denature the beans’ protein content, rendering it very hard to digest. MSG, a neurotoxin, is routinely added to TVP to make it taste like the various foods it imitates  –

On a purely nutritional level, soybeans, like all legumes, are deficient in cysteine and methionine, vital sulphur-containing amino acids, as well as tryptophan, another essential amino acid. Furthermore, soybeans contain no vitamins A or D, required by the body to assimilate and utilize the beans’ proteins (115). It is probably for this reason that Asian cultures that do consume soybeans usually combine them with fish or fish broths (abundant in fat-soluble vitamins) or other fatty foods. Parents who feed their children soy-based formula should be aware of its extremely high phytoestrogen content. Some scientists have estimated a child being fed soy formula is ingesting the hormonal equivalent of five birth control pills a day (116). Such a high intake could have disastrous results. Soy formula also contains no cholesterol, vital for brain and nervous system development. –

7. ” Microwaving Foods Kills Nutrients”
Microwaving is actually among the best ways to keep all the good things in your veggies intact. Boiling can leech out valuable vitamins and minerals, but because microwaving heats up food without using a lot of water, it helps foods to stay nutrient-packed.

 8. The More Grains, the Better
While grains are certainly preferable to refined white flour because they contain more fiber and vitamin B, you shouldn’t fall into the multigrain trap. Just because a product has multiple grains doesn’t mean those grains aren’t processed and stripped of many of the good things you want from them. “In processing grains for convenience, you’re potentially losing the nutrients and changing the degree to which they are absorbed,” says Nicolette Pace, a spokesperson for the New York State Dietetic Association.

9.  Fat-Free Salad Dressings Are Healthier
Fruits and vegetables have fat-soluble nutrients that your body can’t absorb without fat—like the lycopene in tomatoes, which has been linked to a lower cancer and stroke risk. Opting for a fat-free dressing may deprive you of those benefits. Try olive oil-based options, or add avocados and nuts to your salad, both of which contain healthy fats.

10. 4: You Should Avoid White Vegetables
Nutrition experts advocate for colorful foods—the brighter and more diverse the rainbow on your plate, the better. And that’s still true: Carrots and strawberries are high in beta-carotene, an important antioxidant that fights damaging inflammation in cells. Dark green produce is a rich source of antioxidants, fiber, calcium, and vitamins like C and K.

But that doesn’t mean that their white cousins are nutritional failures. In fact, cauliflower, garlic, onions, mushrooms, and, yes, even potatoes are good sources of fiber, antioxidants, and potassium. And while the white potato has become off-limits for dieters, adding a moderate amount of potato to your diet won’t derail your weight-loss efforts. In fact, because it’s so full of fiber, a little goes a long way toward making you feel full and helping you eat less overall. “It’s something you can use as a vehicle to build a meal,” says McDaniel. “If you add broccoli and little bit of cheese, it can be a satisfying meal for someone trying to lose weight.”

11.  5: Juice Cleanses Help You Eliminate Toxins
“People think juice cleanses are a good way to detox the body,” says McDaniel. “But I remind my clients that you have a built-in detox organ, the liver, and it’s very good at what it does.” It probably won’t harm you if you go on a juice cleanse for a day or so, but as a way to lose weight, it’s not such a good idea since it deprives you of proteins and fats and may lead to muscle loss.

12. Coffee Will Only Make You Thirstier
While the caffeine in coffee is a diuretic, meaning it draws water out of your body, the amount of water in coffee means that overall, it can actually be a thirst quencher. Pure water is still your best option to stay hydrated, but you don’t have to avoid coffee just because you think it will dehydrate you.

13. Eggs yolks should be avoided because they are  high in cholesterol, which increases your risk for heart disease

We’ve been advised to cut back on whole eggs because the yolks are high in cholesterol.

However, cholesterol in the diet has remarkably little effect on cholesterol in the blood, at least for the majority of people .

Studies have shown that eggs raise the “good” choleserol and don’t raise risk of heart disease .

One review of 17 studies with a total of 263,938 participants showed that eating eggs had no effect on the risk of heart disease or stroke in non-diabetic individuals (15).

However… keep in mind that some studies have found an increased heart attack risk in diabetics who eat eggs .

Whole eggs really are among the most nutritious foods on the planet and almost all the nutrients are found in the yolks.

Telling people to throw the yolks away may just be the most ridiculous advice in the history of nutrition.

14. All calories are created equal , it doesn’t matter where they come from

It is simply false that “all calories are created equal.”

Different foods go through different metabolic pathways and have direct effects on fat burning and the hormones and brain centers that regulate appetite,

A high protein diet, for example, can increase the metabolic rate by 80 to 100 calories per day and significantly reduce appetite.

In one study, such a diet made people automatically eat 441 fewer calories per day. They also lost 11 pounds in 12 weeks, just by adding protein to their diet .

There are many more examples of different foods having vastly different effects on hunger, hormones and health. Because a calorie is not a calorie.

15. The more grains, the better

While grains are certainly preferable to refined white flour because they contain more fiber and vitamin B, don’t fall into the multigrain trap. Just because a product has multiple different grains doesn’t mean those grains aren’t processed and stripped of many of the good things you want from them. “In processing grains for convenience, you’re potentially losing the nutrients and changing the degree to which they are absorbed,” says Nicolette Pace, spokesperson for the New York State Dietetic Association.

Check the label and look for the word “whole” before any grains listed. And make sure the whole grains are the first thing among the ingredients, which confirms that they make up the most important part of the food.

Another clue is the fiber content. “If you’re seeing that an 11-cracker serving contains 1g of fiber, there’s probably not a lot of whole grain in there,” says Pace.

Try eating more of these grains listed .

  • Whole Rye. This cereal grain has more nutrients per 100-calorie serving than any other whole grain. …
  • Quinoa. …
  • Oats. …
  • Barley. …
  • Millet. …
  • Brown Rice. …
  • Buckwheat. …
  • Spelt.

16.

Plastic chopping boards are more hygienic than wooden ones

Plastic boards are supposedly safer, as, unlike wood, they don’t harbour the bacteria that can make you sick. But wooden cutting boards, says Harold McGee, soak up meat juices, drawing the bacteria away from the surface, plus wood also often contains natural anti-bacterial compounds. Plastic cutting boards are easier to clean (and can be put in a dishwasher) but they develop scars, in which bacteria will lodge. Scrub both plastic and wooden boards vigorously after cutting meat, and when a plastic cutting board develops scars, replace it.

17. ZERO grams trans fat on the label means you’re not getting any trans fat in your food.

FALSE! The FDA allows any food with .5 grams of trans fat or less to claim “0 grams trans fat” on the label. If you happen to eat several servings or a few different ‘trans fat-free’ foods during a day, you can wind up consuming a measurable amount, which leads to increased levels of artery-clogging, bad (LDL) cholesterol. Don’t be fooled! Check the ingredient list, and if you see “hydrogenated” or “partially-hydrogenated oil” listed, step away from the package.

18. Sugar-free and fat-free items are practically calorie-free or very low in calories.

FALSE! Items that decrease sugar or fat to qualify as “sugar-free” usually increase fat and sodium content and vice versa for “fat-free” (defined as less than .5 grams of sugar or fat per serving) products. Additionally, sugar-free items can use artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols that could cause digestive issues (gas, bloat, diarrhea … not pretty.)

19. Nuts are fatty.

TRUE and FALSE! Although nuts do contain fat, there’s no need to be fat phobic. Most nuts contain healthy, monounsaturated fats that help promote heart health and may even stabilize blood sugar. Almonds, for example, provide a satisfying mix of protein and fat that can also help you slim down without compromising crunch and with an added bonus of fiber and calcium.

20. Brown eggs are healthier than white.

FALSE! This one’s easy. The only reason some eggs are brown and others are white is because the chickens that hatch the eggs have different colored feathers! Save some green in your wallet – there’s no nutritional difference between brown and white eggs. Do try to buy organic, cage-free, or free-range eggs. Make sure they have the organic seal.  Organic operations have a much higher level of oversight than conventional farms do. To maintain their certification and use the organic seal on their product, farms have to be inspected annually, at a minimum, by a third-party certifier with USDA accreditation. Compare that with the sporadic oversight of conventional facilities by the FDA, which has been chronically strapped for resources. Which does requires that the poultry receive organic feed, are cage-free, and have “outdoor access.

Read what these labels really mean:

Certified Humane Raised and Handled
Meets the standards of the Humane Farm Animal Care program—an independent nonprofit. The standards include being cage-free and having sufficient space to engage in natural behaviors such as dust bathing and perching.

United Egg Producers Certified
The eggs were produced in compliance with industry-codified standard practices. (More than 80% of commercial eggs carry this seal.)

All Natural
The hens eat vegetarian feed, with no animal slaughterhouse products.

Cage-Free
Hens must live in an open space, not a cage or a coop, but the “open space” can be inside a crowded henhouse. Both organic and conventional hens can be cage-free.

Free-Range
Similar to cage-free, except that birds have some degree of outdoor access—though the amount, duration, or quality of that outdoor time is not specified.

Pasture-Raised
Hens are allowed to range on fresh pasture. Often they are housed in trailers that can be towed to different fields.

Organic
Hens must be given organic feed, which contains no toxic pesticides, herbicides, or fungicides and no GMOs or slaughterhouse by-products. They must never be caged, and they must have outdoor access. The USDA certifies this designation.

21. Breakfast isn’t important.

FALSE! We’ve long been told that breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day, and now there are many scientific studies backing up this claim. For Better Breakfast Month. You have no excuse to not eat breakfast now. I have many slow cooker recipes in my latest E Book! Click on this link and download it for free!

Here are a few easy Breakfast to make too!

Oatmeal Cookie Quinoa Granola

Adapted by Simply Quinoa

Oatmeal Cookie Quinoa Granola - spice up your breakfast with some chocolate chips

  • 2 1/2 cups gluten-free rolled oats
  • 1 1/2 cups quinoa flakes
  • 1/2 cup coconut sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup creamy almond butter
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (I like Enjoy Life because they’re dairy-free)
  1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
  2. In a large bowl, stir together the dry ingredients (minus chocolate chips).
  3. Melt the liquid ingredients together and pour over dry. Stir until evenly coated.
  4. Transfer mixture to a baking sheet and bake for 35 – 45 minutes, stirring every 10 – 15 so granola doesn’t burn.
  5. When golden brown, remove from oven and let cool completely. Stir in chocolate chips.

.Pumpkin Pie Quinoa Breakfast Cookies

Need a “grab & go” breakfast idea? This recipe is by Simply Quinoa.

Need a quick + healthy breakfast option? These Pumpkin Pie Quinoa Breakfast Cookies are the perfect, nutritious treat you need!

  • 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water)
  • 1/4 cup cashew butter (or nut/seed butter of choice)
  • 1/4 + 2 T cup pure maple syrup
  • 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 medium banana, mashed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup quinoa flakes
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon all spice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. Whisk together the flaxseed meal and water, and set aside.
  3. Beat together cashew butter, syrup, pumpkin, banana and vanilla in a large bowl. Add flax egg and mix to combine.
  4. Pour in oats, quinoa flakes, baking powder, spices and salt to the bowl and stir together. Fold in chia seeds (if using).
  5. Drop 2 tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheet and repeat until no dough remains. Gently flatten the cookies with your fingers before you pop them in the oven.
  6. Bake cookies on center rack for 15 – 18 minutes until edges are golden brown. Remove and let cool on the pan for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.
  7. Enjoy at room temp or slightly reheated in a microwave

Simple Slow Cooker Overnight hot quinoa and steel cut oats

Recipe from my E Book Kicking Hypothyroidisms booty, The Slow Cooker way        

This is a power filled breakfast! It’s a blend of quinoa and steel-cut oats.

  • ½ cup steel cut oats – I use BoB Red Mill’s  gluten free oats
  • ½ cup well rinsed quinoa – You can find a brand that is  pre-washed so you don’t have to rinse it
  • 3½ cups (28 ounces) filtered water –
  • ¼ teaspoon fine Himalayan sea salt
  • Spray your slow cooker with non-stick spray. In a mesh strainer, rinse out the quinoa for about 3 minutes. If you didn’t purchase the already rinsed quinoa. Combine the steel cut outs, rinsed quinoa, water and sea salt into the slow cooker. Mix well. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or until liquid has been absorbed

Overnight Quinoa

Overnight Quinoa Recipe

Adapted by From Lizzie Fuhr, POPSUGAR Fitness

1 cup cooked quinoa
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
1/4 cup nonfat Greek yogurt

1/4 teaspoon of Ceylon cinnamon
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Directions

  1. Mix all the ingredients together in a glass jar. Stir well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. The next morning, remove from the fridge, top off with your favorite fruit, and enjoy.

What health advice or tips make you skeptical? Let me know in the comments below. I would love to hear what you have to say.  Please like and share my blog.

Please Like and share my blog!

I don’t know where to start

Hang in there. This wont happen overnight.

I know, there is so much information overload that most people are confused as to where to start.  You can start by taking ownership of your health. I wanted you to understand or get a idea of how everything has a part to play in your body. I am on a  path to help you, lead you and inform you through this terrible illness. Being diagnosed with hypothyroidism isn’t just here take this pill and it will fix your issues. Hypothyroidism has a root cause. Once you start addressing the root of your problems then your body can start healing itself. Your body is an awesome design but there is a complex balance between everything. It’s a domino affect. If you have something in your body that is overworked  it will cause a major shift in your body. Don’t worry the good news is it can be healed.

Sometimes we have to do a little pruning of the branches, in order for the tree to be healthy again. A number of things can be the reason why you have hormonal imbalances, food intolerances, thyroid issues, adrenal fatigue, weight gain, insomnia, personality changes, leaky gut, depression, an autoimmune disorder, chronic pain, no metabolism and low sex drive, bloating, anxiety, menstrual problems and infertility. It starts with becoming aware and how your health can be influenced by many different circumstances.
How would you define good health? Logically one would define good health as absence of a disease or following some sort of ground rules that avoid developing a disease. This book can help you begin to understand what a Keto Autoimmune protocol is and start guiding you in the redevelopment and healing of your body. You will begin to understand how to fix your gut, strengthen your immunity and fight inflammation with an autoimmune approach. The Keto AIP removes all the common inflammatory food triggers that stimulate a possible autoimmune reaction in the body. Along with helping to reset those adrenals, boosting that energy and doing a little ass kicking to those hormones that have decided to act like a wild college student and pull an all-nighter the day before final exams.
Your health doesn’t have to be a difficult situation but a positive realization that things need to change. This new lifestyle change has many parts to it and I hope you will embrace not only the physical but the spiritual awakening. Common food intolerances that are known to trigger inflammation are eliminated in this Keto AIP protocol are Nightshades, Eggs, Grains (gluten), Dairy, Legumes, Corn, Soy, Dairy and lectins.

The Keto Autoimmune Protocol Healing Book for Women: Strengthen Your Immunity, Fight Inflammation and Love Your Incredible Body

theketoautoimmunebookcover

A Women’s Holistic Holy Grail Handbook for Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s: How I healed my Hypothyroidism and Autoimmune Disorder with Personalized Nutrition

Poisoned Profit

Disclaimer

The information and recipes contained in blog is based upon the research and the personal experiences of the author. It’s for entertainment purposes only. Every attempt has been made to provide accurate, up to date and reliable information. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author is not engaging in the rendering of legal, financial, medical or professional advice. By reading this blog, the reader agrees that under no circumstance the author is not responsible for any loss, direct or indirect, which are incurred by using this information contained within this blog. Including but not limited to errors, omissions or inaccuracies. This blog is not intended as replacements from what your health care provider has suggested.  The author is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any of the suggestions, preparations or procedures discussed in this blog. All matters pertaining to your health should be supervised by a health care professional. I am not a doctor, or a medical professional. This blog is designed for as an educational and entertainment tool only. Please always check with your health practitioner before taking any vitamins, supplements, or herbs, as they may have side-effects, especially when combined with medications, alcohol, or other vitamins or supplements.  Knowledge is power, educate yourself and find the answer to your health care needs. Wisdom is a wonderful thing to seek.  I hope this blog will teach and encourage you to take leaps in your life to educate yourself for a happier & healthier life. You have to take ownership of your health.

Resources:

http://www.wikihow.com/Add-More-Iodine-to-Your-Diet#_note-3

1. (a) S Fallon and M Enig. Nourishing Traditions, (New Trends Publishing; Washington, D.C.), 2000, 5; (b) Breeds of Livestock. Oklahoma State University, Department of Animal Science. 2. Breeds of Livestock. Oklahoma State University, Department of Animal Science. 3. W Bender and M Smith. Population, Food, and Nutrition. Population Reference Bureau;1997. 4. B Carnell. Could vegetarianism prevent world hunger?. Accessed on January 3, 2002. 5. M Purdey. The Vegan Ecological Wasteland. Journal of the Price-Pottenger Nutrition Foundation [hereafter referred to as Jnl of PPNF], Winter 1998. 6. Ibid. 7. R Audette with T Gilchrist. Neanderthin. (St. Martins; NY), 1999, 200-2. 8. S Fallon and M Enig, Nourishing Traditions, 6. 9. M Purdey, op cit. 10. Ibid.

11. (a) L Dunne. The Nutrition Almanac, 3rd ed. (McGraw Hill; New York), 32-33; (b) AL Rauma and others. Vitamin B-12 status of long-term adherents of a strict uncooked vegan diet (“living food diet”) is compromised. J Nutr, 1995, 125:2511-5; c) MG Crane and others. Vitamin B12 studies in total vegetarians (vegans). J Nutr Med, 1994, 4:419-30; (d) I Chanarin and others. Megaloblastic anaemia in a vegetarian Hindu community. Lancet, 1985, Nov 2:1168-72 ; (e) M Donaldson. Vitamin B12 and the Hallelujah Diet.(f) MS Donaldson. Metabolic vitamin B12 status on a mostly raw vegan diet with follow-up using tablets, nutritional yeast, or probiotic supplements. Ann Nutr Metab, 2000, 44(5-6):229-234 12. (a) S Ashkenazi and others. Vitamin B12 deficiency due to a strictly vegetarian diet in adolescence. Clin Pediatr, 1987, 26:662-3; (b) G Cheron and others. [Severe megaloblastic anemia in 6-month old girl breast-fed by a vegetarian mother.] Arch Fr Pediatr, 1989, 46:205-7; c) T Kuhne and others. Maternal vegan diet causing a serious infantile neurological disorder due to vitamin B12 deficiency. Eur J Pediatr, 1991, 150:205-8; (d) MC Wighton and others. Brain damage in infancy and dietary vitamin B12 deficiency. Med J Aust, 1979, 2:1-3. 13. (a) PC Dagnelie and others. Vitamin B12 from algae appears not to be bioavailable. Amer J Clin Nutr, 1991, 53:695-7; (b) L Lazarides. The Nutritional Health Bible. (Thorsons Publishing; CA), 1997, 22-23; c) V Herbert. Vitamin B12: plant sources, requirements, and assay. Amer J Clin Nutr, 1988, 48:852-8. 14. (a) IE Baille. The first international congress on vegetarian nutrition. J Appl Nutr, 1987, 39:97-105; (b) A Smith. Soybeans: Chemistry & Technology, vol 1 (Avi Publishing Co; CT), 1972, 184-188. 15. L Dunne. Nutrition Almanac, 22-23. 16. (a) HL Abrams. Vegetarianism: An Anthropological/Nutritional Evaluation, J Appl Nutr, 1980, 32:2:53-87; (b) M Rose. Serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels in Australian adolescent vegetarians. Lancet, 1976, 2:87. 17. (a) L Dunne. Nutrition Almanac, 31; (b) J Groff and S Gropper. Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism, Third Edition. (Wadsworth/Thomson Learning; CA.), 1999, 298. 18. WA Price. Nutrition and Physical Degeneration. (Keats Publishing; CT.), 1989, 256-281. On page 279, Price stated that, “It will be noted that vitamin D, which the human does not readily synthesize in adequate amounts, must be provided by foods of animal tissues or animal products. As yet I have not found a single group of primitive racial stock which was building and maintaining excellent bodies by living entirely on plant foods.” 19. RL Horst and others. Discrimination in the metabolism of orally dosed ergocalciferol and cholecalciferol by the pig, rat, and chick. Biochem J, 1982, Apr 20:4:185-9. 20. Krispin Sullivan, CN, personal communication

http://www.care2.com/greenliving/25-vegan-sources-for-calcium.html

http://www.prevention.com/food/smart-shopping/good-egg-should-you-buy-organic-eggs-or-cage-free

 

10 Ways to Deal with Judgemental people

I’m sure you’ve dealt with judgmental people at some point in your life. You may even feel like you’re always dealing with them. It hard to understand sometimes why people think they have a opinion about my life. Why is the  world so full of judgmental people ? There will always be someone out there judging me no matter what I do.

But here’s the thing, it turns out that the people in our lives are reflections of ourselves. Birds of a feather , flock together? See you have to keep in mind that  what other people say is not a reflection of you but a reflection of them. This may be hard to swallow at first, but it’s true.

I’ve always had this thrown in my face but understand the  concept has taken me well into my 40’s and I’ve finally accepted it. Trust me, it’s not easy but it makes sense when you really think about it. When I finally understood this, I realized that I myself was placing a lot of judgment on other people too. What I mean by that is that I often looked at strangers who were doing something different and instantly formed opinions of them in my head, such as “she’s crazy, that’s not normal behaviour, what is she thinking, why is she so weird?”  Does this sound familiar? I love to watch people. I can remember sitting on a side bench at Carowind’s Amusement Park, waiting for my children while they are in line to get on a ride. Just watching people as they go by. Imaging  what they are saying, trying to read their lips and yes, of course throw out judgment.

You might as well admit it, I know for a fact that you’ve done this too  ( judging people) because we all do it. The problem is some of us do it a lot more than others. When I realized what I was doing, I felt sort of ashamed and I did not want to be so judgmental anymore, so I made every effort to cut it out. I wanted to try to understand, be more curious, less judgmental.  Try to put the shoe on the other foot sort of thing.

Today, I still do catch myself but rarely  snap judgments of people and when I do, I think about how I would feel and how I have felt. I try to analyze it, be curious and wonder , “why”?

If you are finding yourself surrounded by a lot of judgmental people, here are some tips on how to deal with the situation:

1. Look in the mirror.

Do you need to sweep your front porch? Many people are so full of themselves. They have so many skeletons in the closet but yet are worried about your pile of trash. But we have to look in the mirror. Not worry about them and ask ourselves, “Why am I being  judgmental ? Why do I find myself judging people on and what does that have to do with me, what can I work on to better myself?” Think about what areas of your life need improvement and list ways your can begin to heal those areas.

 

2. Practice compassion.

When you know people are judging you. Try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes and realize that they’re feeling insecure about themselves for some reason. Something in their life isn’t right. They’re probably feeling down and disconnected from themselves and don’t know how to deal with it. You try to be the better person and treat everyone with love, respect and understanding even if they are criticizing you. Understand that their harsh behaviour has nothing to do with you but with the way they feel about themselves. If they are just being assholes tell them to , “Go take a long walk on a short pier”. You certainly don’t need that negativity in your life.

 

3. Look for the lesson.

Choose to believe that every experience you encounter is trying to teach you something. Get in the habit of finding the lesson you’re meant to learn every time someone judges you for something. Thank God when you realize what that lesson is. Instead of getting all bent out of shape, choose to see the deeper meaning behind coming across a harsh person. Be thankful that you are NOT that person. Going through what ever they are going through.

 

4. Appreciate the good side of it.

Instead of getting angry when someone criticized you, appreciate and realize that your message is getting across and people are noticing what you have to say. If you’re blogging or writing for example, like me, and you’re starting to get some negative feedback, celebrate that you’re actually getting through to people and being heard. I’m absolutely ecstatic when I see a comment on one of my threads. Good or bad! I feel that for  every negative feedback, I have  10 times more positive feedback (probably even much more), so I don’t dwell on the negative, but focus on the positive. Leave me some feedbacks!

 

5. Accept all feedback.

If you’re at all in a public eye of any sort, like I am, be prepared to receive all types of feedback. Especially if you’re asking people for their honest opinion, be ready to hear what you don’t like. Too often we say to someone, “Be honest, tell me what you really think”, but in reality we’re not prepared at all to hear anything negative. Sure , I love hearing ” just want to hear”. You have to practice receiving honest feedback and appreciating it for its value. You don’t have to always like it, but you should always be open to it objectively.

6. Don’t take things personally. 

If someone you know is judging you harshly, know that it is probably because they judge themselves harshly. Just think ,” would they kiss their mother with that opinion”? Some people just don’t like seeing other people make it. It’s that simple.  Don’t take it personally. Don’t make their negativity your own. Don’t let their toxic words go to your heart. Don’t poison yourself with things that have little or nothing to do with who you are.

“Don’t take anything personally. Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won’t be the victim of needless suffering” ― Miguel Ruiz

7. Look beyond appearances.

Learn to look beyond appearances, to really see and hear what their soul is saying , not their ego trip , wants you to see and hear.

Look beyond appearances, behind the harsh and toxic words, and see if you can find that place within them where love, beauty and kindness resides. if not, don’t let is sit inside you. Let it go. Like a duck allow was to flow off its back. try to look for the good in people and trust that by doing so you will help bring out the good that lies in them. People wont always see your vision and that is okay. It’s your vision not theirs. It’s your destiny. Not theirs. Walk your path.

“When another person makes you suffer, it is because he suffers deeply within himself, and his suffering is spilling over. He does not need punishment; he needs help. That’s the message he is sending.” ~ Thích Nhất Hạnh

8. The world is your mirror

“ As a man changes his own nature, so does the attitude of the world change towards him. This is the divine mystery supreme. A wonderful thing it is and the source of our happiness. We need not wait to see what others do.” ~ Mahatma Gandhi

I have come to realize that whenever I lose control over my thoughts and whenever my thinking isn’t that positive and uplifting, that’s when things start to go wrong in my world. I’m just in a bad mood. I need to recap, refocus and reenergize.

Like attracts like. If there’s darkness within, there will be darkness without. The world is our mirror, it reflects back what’s already within us. If the people that come your way are filled with negativity and toxicity and if you feel that you have many interactions of this kind, you might want to start purifying your thoughts and cleansing your own inner world. Get a new porch to sit on, so to speak. What I mean by that is find new friends. Change your circle.

9. Adopt an attitude of gratitude

“I have learned silence from the talkative, toleration from the intolerant, and kindness from the unkind; yet, strange, I am ungrateful to those teachers.” ~ Khalil Gibran

Get into the habit of expressing your gratitude and appreciation for every interaction and every experience life sends you way, no matter if good or bad. Use them all to enrich your life and who you are, to grow, to expand and to become the beautiful and wonderful being you were born to be. If you don’t appreciate what God has already given you why would he give you more to NOT appreciate.

10. Focus your energy and attention upon those who love and appreciate you

Don’t waste your time judging the people who judge you, instead, channel your energy on loving the people who love you. Use your precious time and energy to show your love and appreciation to those who love and adore you.

“When you meet anyone, remember it is a holy encounter. As you see him you will see yourself. As you treat him you will treat yourself. As you think of him you will think of yourself. Never forget this, for in him you will find yourself or lose yourself.” ~ A Course In Miracles

Sometimes  there are particularly difficult people in our lives or that we come across, and there is absolutely nothing we can do about it. If all else fails, just try to avoid them as much as possible and focus on your own life. You know the old saying, ” Misery loves company” and trust me. It’s true!

If you have anything to add to this or other ways of dealing with judgmental people, please share in the comments section below.

I hope to hear from you!

Many Blessings,

Audrey

 

 

 

27 fantastic delicious ways to Cook with Quinoa

Quinoa is considered a superfood—and for good reason. It revs up your energy levels with iron and magnesium, and it’ll keep you full with filling fiber. Plus, this healthy whole grain can be made for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and even incorporated into desserts. Quinoa contains small amounts of the heart healthy omega-3 fatty acids and, in comparison to common cereal grasses has a higher content of monounsaturated fat. As a complete protein, quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids – including the elusive lysine and isoleucine acids, which most other grains lack. Quinoa dates back three to four thousand years ago when the Incas first realized that the quinoa seed was fit for human consumption. According to WHFoods quinoa “was the gold of the Incas” because the Incas believed it increased the stamina of their warriors. The Quinoa Corporation calls quinoa the “Supergrain of the Future. Quinoa is one of the most protein-rich foods we can eat. It is a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids, contains almost twice as much fiber as most other grains, contains Iron, contains lysine, rich in magnesium, high in Riboflavin (B2). B2 improves energy metabolism within brain and muscle cells and is known to help create proper energy production in cells, high content of manganese. Manganese is an antioxidant, which helps to prevent damage of mitochondria during energy production as well as to protect red blood cells and other cells from injury by free radicals. If you’re curious about cooking with quinoa, try one of these 26 fun, flavorful, and wholesome recipes.

1.Oatmeal Cookie Quinoa Granola

Adapted by Simply Quinoa

Oatmeal Cookie Quinoa Granola - spice up your breakfast with some chocolate chips

  1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
  2. In a large bowl, stir together the dry ingredients (minus chocolate chips).
  3. Melt the liquid ingredients together and pour over dry. Stir until evenly coated.
  4. Transfer mixture to a baking sheet and bake for 35 – 45 minutes, stirring every 10 – 15 so granola doesn’t burn.
  5. When golden brown, remove from oven and let cool completely. Stir in chocolate chips and store in an airtight container for 2 – 3 weeks.

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

2.Pumpkin Pie Quinoa Breakfast Cookies

Need a “grab & go” breakfast idea? This recipe is by Simply Quinoa.

Need a quick + healthy breakfast option? These Pumpkin Pie Quinoa Breakfast Cookies are the perfect, nutritious treat you need!

  • 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water)
  • 1/4 cup cashew butter (or nut/seed butter of choice)
  • 1/4 + 2 T cup pure maple syrup
  • 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 medium banana, mashed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup quinoa flakes
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon all spice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. Whisk together the flaxseed meal and water, and set aside.
  3. Beat together cashew butter, syrup, pumpkin, banana and vanilla in a large bowl. Add flax egg and mix to combine.
  4. Pour in oats, quinoa flakes, baking powder, spices and salt to the bowl and stir together. Fold in chia seeds (if using).
  5. Drop 2 tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheet and repeat until no dough remains. Gently flatten the cookies with your fingers before you pop them in the oven.
  6. Bake cookies on center rack for 15 – 18 minutes until edges are golden brown. Remove and let cool on the pan for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.
  7. Enjoy at room temp or slightly reheated in a microwave

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

3.Simple Slow Cooker Overnight hot quinoa and steel cut oats

Recipe from my E Book Kicking Hypothyroidisms booty, The Slow Cooker way        

This is a power filled breakfast! It’s a blend of quinoa and steel-cut oats.

  • ½ cup steel cut oats – I use BoB Red Mill’s  gluten free oats
  • ½ cup well rinsed quinoa – You can find a brand that is  pre-washed so you don’t have to rinse it
  • 3½ cups (28 ounces) filtered water –
  • ¼ teaspoon fine Himalayan sea salt
  • Spray your slow cooker with non-stick spray. In a mesh strainer, rinse out the quinoa for about 3 minutes. If you didn’t purchase the already rinsed quinoa. Combine the steel cut outs, rinsed quinoa, water and sea salt into the slow cooker. Mix well. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or until liquid has been absorbed

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

4.Overnight Quinoa

Overnight Quinoa Recipe

Adapted by From Lizzie Fuhr, POPSUGAR Fitness

1 cup cooked quinoa
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
1/4 cup nonfat Greek yogurt

1/4 teaspoon of Ceylon cinnamon
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Directions

  1. Mix all the ingredients together in a glass jar. Stir well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. The next morning, remove from the fridge, top off with your favorite fruit, and enjoy.

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

 5.Honey Garlic Shrimp Quinoa Salad

Adapted by Thing Love Affair

                                                   Honey Garlic Shrimp Quinoa Salad

3 cups Cooked Quinoa (about 3/4 cup dried)

1 lb Frozen, Peeled and Thawed Shrimp

2 cups Snow Peas

1 Red Pepper, julienned

1 cup Bean Sprouts

4 tbsp Raw Honey

2 tbsp Hot Sauce

1 1/2 tsp coconut amino’s

1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil

2 Cloves Garlic, minced

2 tsp Fresh Ginger, minced

Green Onion, chopped thinly for garnish

Sesame Seeds, for garnish

Instructions

Cook your quinoa. I always remove the tails of my shrimp and discard. Add snow peas and red pepper in a pan for about 3-4 minutes. Next add the bean sprouts and cook for an additional minute. Whisk the honey, hot sauce, coconut amino’s, olive oil, garlic, and ginger in a small bowl. Add your cooked quinoa into a large serving bowl. Top with veggies and shrimp. Pour sauce on top and toss.Garnish with green onion and sesame seeds.

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

 

6.Shrimp Fried QuinoaShrimp Fried Quinoa

Recipe adapted by  Savvy Naturalista

3 eggs (fried)
1 medium onion
2 cups quinoa (cooked)
2 cups medium shrimp (frozen)
1.5 cups peas and carrots (frozen)
¼ cup coconut amino’s
2 tbsp. organic sesame seed oil

Recipe Directions: On medium to high heat place sesame seed oil in a skillet and let warm up. Chop up onion and place into skillet, sauté onions until they become translucent.

Add quinoa and frozen veggies to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stir in the shrimp and cook until the shrimp turn pink (about 3 minutes). Add the egg and cook the mixture for 3 minutes. Add cocnut amino’s sauce, cooking for another 3 minutes.

Serve while hot and add your favorite condiments on the side.

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

7.Slow Cooker Coconut Lentil Quinoa Soup

This recipe was adapted by one of my many recipes that you can find in my slow cooker E book!

1.5 cups of red dry lentils

1.5 cups of vegetable broth

1 cup of rinsed, uncooked quinoa

½ onion, finely chopped

1 garlic clove, minced

½ inch fresh ginger root, finely chopped

½ cup shredded coconut

½ cup can coconut milk

1 teaspoon curry powder

1 teaspoon of black pepper

Place everything in the slow cooker. Except the shredded coconut and coconut milk. Cook on high 3 hours or low 6. 30 minutes prior to being done add the coconut milk and shredded coconut flakes. Stir everything to combine. Ladle into bowls.

8.Slow cooker Low Carb Un-Stuffed Cabbage Roll Soup

Adapted from Sugar -Free Mom

cabbage roll soup3 (1 of 1)

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 cup chopped onion

1/2 cup chopped shallots

2 pounds ground turkey

1 tsp dried parsley

1/2 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp Himalayan sea salt

1 tsp pepper

1 can of unsalted fire roasted diced tomatoes

1 cup of uncooked, rinsed quinoa

5 cups beef broth, low sodium

1 large cabbage or 8 cups sliced

1 can of low sodium tomato soup

Heat olive oil and garlic on medium high heat in a cast iron skillet. Add onions and shallots and cook until softened. Add your ground turkey and cook until browned and no longer pink. .Add seasonings to the turkey. Add the quinoa, beef mixture, can tomatoes, diced cabbage , onions, shallots, seasonings and tomato soup to the slow cooker. Stir to combine everything. Cook on high 3 hours or low 6 hours.

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

9.Red Curry quinoa and Lentil Stew
This delicious, stick to your gut and fill you up stew. This hearty and flavorful stew is ready in less than 30 minutes. This recipe is one of many from my E Book.                                 Kicking Hypothyroidisms booty, The Slow Cooker way       
                                                         
Ingredients
1 onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
3 tbsp of red curry paste
4 carrots, peeled and chopped
1 tbsp Coconut Amino’s
½ cup cooked quinoa
½ cup uncooked red lentils
1⅓ cup vegetable stock
1 (28 oz.) can diced tomatoes, with their juices
1 tsp brown sugar
Celtic Sea Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Instructions
    1. In a large sauce pan, cook the garlic, onion and ginger over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring.
    2. Add the carrots and red curry paste. Stir and cook for a few more minutes.
    3. Add the rest of the ingredients, stir, cover and lightly simmer for 20 minutes.
    4. Remove the lid and let simmer for another 5-10 minutes until everything is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
    5. For an extra zing add a dash of crushed red chili flakes
     You can also cook this in the you slow cooker . Do step 1 then add everything to your slow cooker. Allow to cook 4 hours on low or 3 on high.

10.Honey-Butter Quinoa with Corn and Scallions

Honey-Butter Quinoa with Corn and Scallions

Takes only 20 minutes start to finish and involves melted butter and honey. Recipe here.

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

11.Chicken Quinoa Burrito Bowls

Chicken Quinoa Burrito Bowls

If Chipotle were ~actually~ healthy. Recipe here

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

12. Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad

Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad

Buffalo sauce makes everything better. Recipe here

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

13.Quinoa Crust for Pizza or Cheesy Garlic Bread

Quinoa Crust

Quinoa Crust for Pizza or Cheesy Garlic Bread. Recipe Here.

14. Quinoa Salad with Autumn Pears, Baby Spinach, Pecans

Karina's quinoa salad recipe with baby spinach, pears, and chick peas, with pecans and maple vinaigrette is gluten-free and vegan.

Recipe here

15. Citrus Chicken Quinoa Salad
from Sally’s Baking Addiction

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

So many bright, fresh flavors with none of the artificial stuff!

16.Smashed Chickpea + Quinoa Salad
from Simply Quinoa

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

Smashed Chickpea Quinoa Salad >> just in time for spring and the perfect substitute for potato salad!

17. Black Bean Quinoa Salad
from Damn Delicious

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

Black Bean Quinoa Salad...PLUS 20 other fabulous quinoa salad recipes that you should try this spring!

18. Quinoa Greek Salad with Chickpeas
from Simply Quinoa

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

Quinoa Greek Salad with Chickpeas and 20 other quinoa salad recipes you should be enjoying this spring!

19. Curried Quinoa Bowls with Spinach + Almonds
from Vegan Yumminess

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

Curried Quinoa Bowls + 20 other quinoa salad recipes to enjoy this spring!

20.Skillet Salmon with Quinoa, Feta and Arugula

from Serious eats

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

Skillet Salmon with Quinoa, Feta and Arugula

21. Baked Tomatoes with Quinoa, Corn, and Green Chiles

from My Recipes

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

Baked Tomatoes with Quinoa, Corn, and Green Chiles

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

22.  Sweet Potato Pie With Maple Quinoa Crust

This maple quinoa crust adds delicious crunch to sweet potato pie.

Get the recipe from Nosh and Nourish

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

23. Quinoa Chocolate Chunk Cookies

This chocolate chip cookie is good(er) for you. Just go with it.

Get the recipe from I Heart Eating

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

24.Quinoa Burrito Bowl

Burrito bowls are always a great quick and easy dinner option, and this version using quinoa packs a healthier punch than using rice.

Get the recipe from Like Mother Like Daughter

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

25. Easy Pesto Asparagus Quinoa

Don’t let the word casserole fool you; this super modern, super easy dinner will be your new favorite way to eat quinoa. Or pesto. Or asparagus.

Get the recipe from Oh, Sweet Basil

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

26. Quinoa Fried “Rice”

This pork-fried quinoa will have you forgetting fried rice ever existed.

Get the recipe from Queen of Quinoa

Order your quinoa today! Click on this link.

27. Greek-Inspired Quinoa Salad

This is from one of my favorite books The Beauty Detox Solution by Kimberly Snider

She uses millet but millet isn’t good for your thyroid. I switched out the millet and replaced it with quinoa.

6 cups of water

2 cups of dry quinoa, rinsed

1/2 cup pitted and chopped kalamata olives

1/3 cup drained capers, chopped

1/4 cup minced scallions, diced

Dressing:

2 tb. fresh lemon juice

1 tbs. Dijon mustard

1.5 tsp. Celtic sea salt

2 tbs. raw apple cider vinegar

1 tbs. minced shallot

2 tsp. dried oregano

1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil

Make sure you rinse your quinoa under water in a mesh strainer for about 5 minutes.

In a saucepan over high heat, bring the water to a boil. reduce the heat, then add the quinoa and simmer until the quinoa as directed on the packaging.

Blend all the dressing ingredients together until smooth in a blender, or simply add thim to a small bowl and whisk. Add your quinoa to your mixture. Add the diced olives, chopped capers and diced scallions. Mix well and enjoy!

I don’t know where to start

Hang in there. This wont happen overnight.

I know, there is so much information overload that most people are confused as to where to start.  You can start by taking ownership of your health. I wanted you to understand or get a idea of how everything has a part to play in your body. I am on a  path to help you, lead you and inform you through this terrible illness. Being diagnosed with hypothyroidism isn’t just here take this pill and it will fix your issues. Hypothyroidism has a root cause. Once you start addressing the root of your problems then your body can start healing itself. Your body is an awesome design but there is a complex balance between everything. It’s a domino affect. If you have something in your body that is overworked  it will cause a major shift in your body. Don’t worry the good news is it can be healed.

Sometimes we have to do a little pruning of the branches, in order for the tree to be healthy again. A number of things can be the reason why you have hormonal imbalances, food intolerances, thyroid issues, adrenal fatigue, weight gain, insomnia, personality changes, leaky gut, depression, an autoimmune disorder, chronic pain, no metabolism and low sex drive, bloating, anxiety, menstrual problems and infertility. It starts with becoming aware and how your health can be influenced by many different circumstances.
How would you define good health? Logically one would define good health as absence of a disease or following some sort of ground rules that avoid developing a disease. This book can help you begin to understand what a Keto Autoimmune protocol is and start guiding you in the redevelopment and healing of your body. You will begin to understand how to fix your gut, strengthen your immunity and fight inflammation with an autoimmune approach. The Keto AIP removes all the common inflammatory food triggers that stimulate a possible autoimmune reaction in the body. Along with helping to reset those adrenals, boosting that energy and doing a little ass kicking to those hormones that have decided to act like a wild college student and pull an all-nighter the day before final exams.
Your health doesn’t have to be a difficult situation but a positive realization that things need to change. This new lifestyle change has many parts to it and I hope you will embrace not only the physical but the spiritual awakening. Common food intolerances that are known to trigger inflammation are eliminated in this Keto AIP protocol are Nightshades, Eggs, Grains (gluten), Dairy, Legumes, Corn, Soy, Dairy and lectins.

The Keto Autoimmune Protocol Healing Book for Women: Strengthen Your Immunity, Fight Inflammation and Love Your Incredible Body

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A Women’s Holistic Holy Grail Handbook for Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s: How I healed my Hypothyroidism and Autoimmune Disorder with Personalized Nutrition

Poisoned Profit

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The information and recipes contained in blog is based upon the research and the personal experiences of the author. It’s for entertainment purposes only. Every attempt has been made to provide accurate, up to date and reliable information. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author is not engaging in the rendering of legal, financial, medical or professional advice. By reading this blog, the reader agrees that under no circumstance the author is not responsible for any loss, direct or indirect, which are incurred by using this information contained within this blog. Including but not limited to errors, omissions or inaccuracies. This blog is not intended as replacements from what your health care provider has suggested.  The author is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any of the suggestions, preparations or procedures discussed in this blog. All matters pertaining to your health should be supervised by a health care professional. I am not a doctor, or a medical professional. This blog is designed for as an educational and entertainment tool only. Please always check with your health practitioner before taking any vitamins, supplements, or herbs, as they may have side-effects, especially when combined with medications, alcohol, or other vitamins or supplements.  Knowledge is power, educate yourself and find the answer to your health care needs. Wisdom is a wonderful thing to seek.  I hope this blog will teach and encourage you to take leaps in your life to educate yourself for a happier & healthier life. You have to take ownership of your health.

Disclaimer

The information and recipes contained in blog is based upon the research and the personal experiences of the author. It’s for entertainment purposes only. Every attempt has been made to provide accurate, up to date and reliable information. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author is not engaging in the rendering of legal, financial, medical or professional advice. By reading this blog, the reader agrees that under no circumstance the author is not responsible for any loss, direct or indirect, which are incurred by using this information contained within this blog. Including but not limited to errors, omissions or inaccuracies. This blog is not intended as replacements from what your health care provider has suggested.  The author is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any of the suggestions, preparations or procedures discussed in this blog. All matters pertaining to your health should be supervised by a health care professional. I am not a doctor, or a medical professional. This blog is designed for as an educational and entertainment tool only. Please always check with your health practitioner before taking any vitamins, supplements, or herbs, as they may have side-effects, especially when combined with medications, alcohol, or other vitamins or supplements.  Knowledge is power, educate yourself and find the answer to your health care needs. Wisdom is a wonderful thing to seek.  I hope this blog will teach and encourage you to take leaps in your life to educate yourself for a happier & healthier life. You have to take ownership of your health.

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The Hypothyroidism diet (and How I am doing it anti anxiety style)

On my journey of self discovery, I’ve come across some many articles that say “eat this, not that”. I want to be live a long life full of great health, happiness and wisdom. There is always room for improvement. After finding out I had hypothyroidism 15 years ago. It’s been on a never ending battle to feel normal again. What is normal, you ask? Well, we all have what we consider to be our own “normal”. What’s normal for me , might not be normal for you. My main goal is to eat to cater to my body. It can be overwhelming and mind boggling to figure out exactly what I should be eating. So I start with the basic’s. My hypothyroidism. Next, whatever else is bothering me. I listen to my body. Right now, the 2nd thing that I am concentrating on is anxiety.

Anxiety can be a symptom from hypothyroidism.  Along with dry skin, hair loss, weight gain, unable to lose weight, heart palpitation’s, depression, memory problems, frequent constipation, high cholesterol, changes in your menstrual cycle, sensitivity to cold,  Muscle cramps and aches, slurred speech, jaundice, decreased libido, dry hair,  knot in throat, & tightness in your throat.

You don’t have to encounter every one of these symptoms to be diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Everybody’s experience with the disorder is different. While you may notice that your skin and hair have become dry and rough, someone else might be plagued more by fatigue , depression or anxiety.

The thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) level reflects the severity of the hypothyroidism. For example, if you have a mild form of hypothyroidism and a relatively lower TSH level, you may not notice—or even have—symptoms. That’s because your hormone levels haven’t decreased to the point where they have a major impact on your metabolism. The more hypothyroid you become, the more symptomatic you’ll be.

The symptoms of hypothyroidism aren’t always noticeable, but it’s important that you understand what to look out for. Recognizing hypothyroidism early on will allow you to manage the disorder and prevent it from interfering with your life.

So I’ve been reading The Mood Cure and The Anti-anxiety Food Solution writing down notes, crossing comparing notes of foods that will cater to bringing my anxiety down. I’ve always believed that you are what you eat and food is the key to our good health. think of your body like a car engine. You have to put the right fluids in it to get it run properly. Feed it the right things or it will break down eventually or refuse to run all together! While reading  The Anti-Anxiety book I came across many interesting things. It’s full of awesome information. Gut damage, food intolerances and  nutrient deficiencies play a key role in many of our problems.  We can’t expect to feed our bodies processed , sugar loaded, fake foods, artificial  crap and expect it to be okay with it.

So, this is what I’ve learned and how to cater to my anxiety while fighting hypothyroidism.

1.Avoid sugar, processed foods and “white foods”

This should already go without saying since we have hypothyroidism. We should be eating gluten free. Having hypothyroidism it makes us more sensitive to gluten. Some of us have gluten intolerances and  don’t even know it. key thing is to listen to your body. Avoid junk food, refined sugar, all of the white foods ( white flour, white rice, white bread and so on) processed foods, soda’s, sugary beverages and alcohol. We must keep our blood sugar stabilized.

Try to always  eat organic (pesticide free), non-genetically modified, whole-foods. If you cannot afford organic there is a list here of fruit and vegetables that retain pesticides but it does not include berries particularly blueberries which are high on the list).

2. Eat Enough protein

Are you eating enough protein? Don’t immediately think of meat when I say this. Plants can give you plenty of your protein needs along with adding a scoop of Raw Meal to your smoothies.

 

3. Eat breakfast, along with a good protein and fat

You should always take your thyroid medication with lemon water and then eat after 1 hour of waking.

Gluten free oatbran with coconut oil ( good fat) , Ceylon cinnamon ( heart health, blood sugar, anti inflammatory, cancer fighter)   , flaxseed ( Good fat and fiber) , smashed banana ( potassium) . Along with 1 cage free boiled egg( protein) .

or you can make your self a smoothie!

1 cup organic Romaine lettuce,1/2  organic cucumber peeled, 1 diced whole organic apple with peeling, 1 organic celery stalk,  1 cup of filtered water, Add a scoop of  Raw Meal.

4. Keep a food diary

You must keep a food diary to see how you body reacts to certain foods.  Write down what you eat. Monitor how you feel after you’ve eaten certain foods. You could have a food intolerance dairy, gluten, legumes,

5. Improve your digestion.

I’ve read so many articles that have stated your stomach is your 2nd brain. You are what you eat! Having bad guy flora can contribute to anxiety and a whole list of health problems.  The digestive system actually has it own nervous system and over 95 % of serotonin is made in the guy. Having a sluggish thyroid can contribute to constipation, food allergies can contribute to digestive distress, which can cause you to have low zinc, low magnesium and adrenal fatigue. Add more high fiber whole foods to your salads like zucchini, celery and carrots.  Mushrooms and cucumbers are excellent choices too. Add a simple vinaigrette. Evoo & balsamic vinegar , Evoo & organic apple cider vinegar.

Enzyme-rich foods include:

Here is more information on ways to get more digestive enzymes. Click on this link to  this article. The Truth About Digestive Enzymes.

6. Exercise

Exercising raises Gaba levels ( the brains natural valium) .

GABA is a calming inhibitory neurotransmitter, it’s like the brains natural endogenous Valium.
GABA enables your brain to put an end to persistent worrying thoughts going around and around in your mind.
We believe the neurotransmitters GABA and serotonin enable the brain to calm and control anxious thoughts, so when they are deficient it can make it almost impossible to stop worrying thoughts dominating and overwhelming our mind and turn into anxiety, even “normal” everyday worries or concerns can ruminate, escalate and cause terrible stress.

Symptoms of lack of GABA/serotonin include:-

  • anxiety, feeling fearful, general (free floating) anxiety disorder or GAD,
  • panic attacks,
  • nervy/stressed disposition,
  • persistent worrying thoughts going around and around in the mind, cannot switch of the mind,
  • inability to relax,
  • insomnia due to an anxious mind or cannot switch off the mind,
  • physical aches and pains because the nerves keep firing, possibly causing/contributing to fibromyalgia,
  • headaches,
  • IBS
  • carbohydrate cravings.

 

A taking walk outside in the sun is a good stress reliever plus you getting much needed vitamin d. Yoga has been proven to be a stress reliever. Jumping on a rebounder is excellent too.  A study showed that the increased G-force helped increase Lymphocyte activity. The lymph system transports immune cells throughout the body and supports immune function. For this reason, rebounding is often suggested as a detoxifying and immune boosting activity.  Click on this link to order yours today

 

7. Nourish your body.

Eat Grass fed meats, pastured poultry, wild fish, cage free eggs, whole organic fruits and veggies, flax seed oil, avocado’s ( good fats) pumpkin seeds, organic apple cider vinegar, lemons, mushrooms, garlic, coconut oil, zucchini, celery, more fiber, brown rice and quinoa. Eat 2 snacks and 3 meals a day. Make sure you getting plenty of vitamins. Drink plenty of water! You should take you body weight & divide it by 2, that is how many ounces you are to drink per day.  I also drink 2 tablespoons of braggs organic apple cider vinegar per day.

Stay away from sugar, dairy ( until you know if you can tolerate it) , all gluten,  no white foods, no processed foods, artificial colors and addictive’s.

Having Hypothyroidism you are to limit raw Cruciferous vegetables intake it can hinder the absorption of your medication.  Read more here about it.  Please do eat your cancer fighting cooked veggies.

 

Are you still confused about what to eat? Maybe you shouldn’t think about what your not eating and focus on what you can. Having hypothyroidism and anxiety   isn’t a curse it’s a chance to become better from the inside out.   Here is a sample menu of what my day looks like. Don’t forget to keep a food log!

4:oo am wake up 20oz of lemon  water with thyroid medication

4oo – 4:30 exercise rebounder ( when  your adrenals are low you shouldn’t exercise more than 45 minutes due to your already high cortisol levels in  your body) Click on these links to find out more about that.

Click Link 1    Help! What To Do About High Cortisol Levels

Click link 2     Cortisol and Thyroid Hormones

Click link 3     Adrenal fatigue: Healing a hormone imbalance

Breakfast

1 boiled egg, 1/2 cup gluten free oat brand, 1 teaspoon coconut oil, 1/4 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon, 1 teaspoon flaxseed meal, banana

Gluten free oat bran because- it’s gluten free, high in protein , high in soluble fiber. It’s high in vitamin B and has iron. This is a stick to your guy breakfast.

Snack

Pineapple cup ( anti-inflammatory with digestive benefits, vitamin C, copper, B1 and B6, improves thyroid function) with 1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds ( ( tryptophan, vitamin E, Vitamin k, iron potassium, phosphorus, zinc and magnesium and good fat) and dried unsweetened coconut flakes ( good fat)

Lunch

Smoothie or a Simple salad or you can have your smoothie for breakfast and eat your oat bran for lunch? There are many options

Smoothie- 1 cup organic Romaine lettuce,1/2  organic cucumber peeled, 1 diced whole organic apple with peeling, 1 organic celery stalk,  1 cup of filtered water, Add a scoop of  Raw Meal and I also add a teaspoon of dulse flakes a few times a week. Having Hypothyroidism makes you have very low iodine. Dulse flakes is an excellent way to boost  your iodine naturally thru foods.

At lunch I also take what my body needs in vitamins, although it might seem like a lot to some, it is what my needs right now.

Organic life vitamins, Super b complex, caltrate (D3), probiotic

Snack

organic apple with 1 boiled egg( protein)

Dinner

Quinoa with Grilled Zucchini, Garbanzo Beans, and Cumin

Along with a simple salad and here are 3 thyroid friend salad dressing recipes

Vitamin C flaxseed oil

( Yes, I checked to make sure I am not overdosing on any of my vitamins)

Yoga

Epsom salt foot soak ( magnesium) I don’t do this everyday but a few times per week. If you have high blood pressure this isn’t a good option for you. It can raise your BP.

For adults, the recommended dietary reference intake for vitamin C is 65 to 90 milligrams (mg) a day, and the upper limit is 2,000 mg a day. Although too much dietary vitamin C is unlikely to be harmful, megadoses of vitamin C supplements may cause: Diarrhea

Want more tips and information on Hypothyroidism/anxiety food fighting recipes and suggestions? Keep an eye for my latest E Book that will be able to download by your finger tips soon! The Kicking hypothyroidism’s booty ( Anti-anxiety style) I am still working on the title but the book is in motion.

Here is a breathing exercise video that does work  By Dr. Pratt.

 

 

 

Please LIKE and Share this and post your comments below!

Disclaimer

The information and recipes contained in blog is based upon the research and the personal experiences of the author. It’s for entertainment purposes only. Every attempt has been made to provide accurate, up to date and reliable information. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author is not engaging in the rendering of legal, financial, medical or professional advice. By reading this blog, the reader agrees that under no circumstance the author is not responsible for any loss, direct or indirect, which are incurred by using this information contained within this blog. Including but not limited to errors, omissions or inaccuracies. This blog is not intended as replacements from what your health care provider has suggested.  The author is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any of the suggestions, preparations or procedures discussed in this blog. All matters pertaining to your health should be supervised by a health care professional. I am not a doctor, or a medical professional. This blog is designed for as an educational and entertainment tool only. Please always check with your health practitioner before taking any vitamins, supplements, or herbs, as they may have side-effects, especially when combined with medications, alcohol, or other vitamins or supplements.  Knowledge is power, educate yourself and find the answer to your health care needs. Wisdom is a wonderful thing to seek.  I hope this blog will teach and encourage you to take leaps in your life to educate yourself for a happier & healthier life. You have to take ownership of your health.

 

references:

http://www.endocrineweb.com/conditions/hypothyroidism/symptoms-hypothyroidism

http://www.healthnutnation.com/2013/11/07/10-ways-naturally-stimulate-digestive-fire/

http://www.balancingbrainchemistry.co.uk/peter-smith/26/GABA-Deficient-Anxiety.html

http://www.chrisbeatcancer.com/rebounding/

http://thyroid.about.com/od/symptomsrisks/a/All-About-Goitrogens-thyroid.htm

http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/oat-bran-vs-rolled-oats-1761.html

http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/benefits-raw-pumpkin-seeds-6627.html

http://healthylivinghowto.com/1/post/2013/02/what-to-do-about-high-cortisol.html

http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256

https://bragg.com/products/bragg-organic-apple-cider-vinegar.html