From the Refresh Revive Restore 10-Day Detox Book by Dr Cobi Slater…. coming soon!
Ingredients
Instructions
Food sensitivities can affect the body with a myriad of symptoms. Often people are not aware of the many ways that the body can react to foods. There are different types of food allergies or sensitivities. The less obvious and non-life-threatening type of food sensitivities are usually the culprits that are much harder to recognize as the offenders as the reaction is often delayed.
Symptoms related to delayed response food sensitivities normally occur within 30 minutes to 3 days after eating the offending food! The symptoms can be anything from headaches, digestive issues, eczema and chronic colds to name a few. 95% of people with food allergies have this type of allergy. Delayed onset sensitivities can be detected through a blood test called an ELISA IgG Food Allergy Panel or by an allergy elimination diet.
Immediate response food allergies or IgE allergies usually occur within 30 minutes of consuming the allergen and the symptoms are often severe and even life threatening. Only 5% of people with food allergies have this type of allergy. Scratch testing is often how these allergies are detected.
Common Food Sensitivity Symptoms
1. Chronic sinus congestion
Sinus congestion, infections and sinus pain are a common result of food sensitivities. Ingesting allergenic foods can cause the sinus passages to inflame and produce mucous. Elimination of the offending allergenic food leads to clear passages and easy breathing!
2. Childhood Bed Wetting
In childhood bed wetting, spasms chronically constrict the bladder muscles which leads to smaller bladder volume and less ability to hold urine, especially overnight.
One researcher measured bladder volume in bed wetting children by threading a balloon into the bladder and inflating it to measure the volume. After the offending food allergies were eliminated, not only did the bed wetting disappear but when he measured the bladder volume again, he found that it had increased by as much as 50 percent (and even more in some cases). Discovering which food your child is sensitive to will very often eliminate bed-wetting!
3. Recurrent Ear Infections
Food sensitivities are common especially in the first three years of life. As many as 79% of children with recurrent ear infections develop them because of food sensitivities or allergies. The most common foods that children may be sensitivities or allergic to are:
The reaction can cause the tube connecting the ear to the throat to swell. When this happens, fluids that normally contain bacteria in the throat get trapped in the ear. The warm, dark tube in the ear is a perfect place for bacteria to grow. This can cause an ear infection to develop. Once the underlying food sensitivity has been identified and eliminated, the ear infections clear up.
4. Acne
Food sensitivities are the number one cause of acne and the worse the acne the more likely food sensitivities are involved. Eating a food to which the body is reactive to leads to a continuous toxic reaction. In such a case, the immune system fights the food as if it were an invading organism. This can cause inflammation in the skin resulting in acne. Eliminating the specific food sensitivity completely clears the skin in most cases!
5. Joint Pain
When the immune system overreacts to certain foods, the increased histamine in joint tissue causes inflammation and irritation. The inflammation of the joint tissue causes swelling which places excess pressure and stress on the joints, leading to pain and arthritis symptoms! Eliminating food sensitivities dramatically decreases the pain!
6. Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have been linked to delayed onset food sensitivities. Certain foods produce inflammation and irritation in the digestive system. This inflammation results in symptoms like gas, bloating, cramping, diarrhea and/or constipation. Studies have shown that elimination of foods producing an IgG reaction can alleviate IBS symptoms. This has been proven MANY times in my practice with patients! Removing the food sensitivity eliminates the IBS symptoms time and time again!
7. Mood Disorders
Researchers have discovered that the deposition of antibody-allergen complexes in nervous system tissues may contribute to hyperactivity, depression, anxiety, inability to concentrate and other mood disorders. There is also compounding evidence that eliminating IgG food sensitivities improves attentiveness in children as well as depression and/or anxiety in all ages.
8. Weight Gain
Antibody-allergen complexes which occur in food sensitivities or allergies cause inflammation which then leads to fluid retention and weight gain. To fight the inflammation, the body releases a chemical called ghrelin which also happens to be an appetite stimulant. Thus, IgG food reactions can cause weight gain in two ways: fluid retention and increased appetite!
9. Chronic Headaches and Migraines
Many people with chronic headaches suffer from them for years with no permanent relief. Whether you have migraine headaches, tension headaches, sinus headaches or an undetermined form of headache, it is very possible that you are suffering from food allergy or sensitivity-induced inflammation. Recent research on migraines indicates that food sensitivities mediated by IgG-type antibodies can be specifically to blame. I personally suffered with chronic headaches for over a decade until I discovered that I had an egg sensitivity. Once I stopped eating eggs, my daily headaches completely went away!
10. Eczema
It is estimated that nearly 100% of people suffering with itchy and bothersome eczema have some type of allergy or sensitivity! Testing can uncover the culprit and by eliminating the offending food the eczema often clears quite quickly.
The best way to determine if you have a delayed onset food sensitivity is to get tested! The ELISA 95 IgG Food Allergy Panel is a simple blood test that can be done through Dr Cobi and includes testing for 95 different food sensitivities as well as a full Celiac Panel (an autoimmune intolerance to gluten) and Candida (a common yeast over growth). Book your testing today by calling 604 467 9554.
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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating and complex disorder that is characterized by profound fatigue that has lasted for at least six months and is not relieved or improved by rest. There are no proven causes of CFS and there is no specific CFS test to positively diagnose a person. Due to the fact that many other conditions can cause fatigue, all other conditions must be ruled out before a diagnosis of CFS can be made. CFS usually affects women in their 40s to 50s but in reality anyone can develop CFS.
In addition to fatigue, CFS includes eight other characteristic symptoms:
There are many other symptoms that are common to CFS that typically include mild fever, flu-like symptoms, depression, irritability, allergies, weight changes, digestive disturbances, night sweats, palpitations, severe PMS and a cough. This list is not exhaustive as there are many more symptoms that have been reported.
There are many different theories of the cause of CFS, although none have been proven. Researchers do agree however that there are multiple factors that contribute to CFS including infectious agents (viruses, bacteria, candida, parasites etc), immune dysfunction, thyroid problems, toxicity (from environment, food, dental amalgams, and drugs), enzyme deficiencies, underlying allergies, nutritional deficiencies and lifestyle factors (stress, emotional and psychological factors).
Studies show that each individual may have CFS for various reasons and would therefore require different treatment protocols. The importance is in knowing that each person will respond in their own unique way to treatments and therefore there is no cookie-cutter approach to CFS. Certain tests can reveal hidden imbalances which will help to discover the individual cause and treatment approach. Some tests that may be helpful include a Complete Digestive Analysis which exposes candida, parasites, bacterial pathogens, H.pylori, pH levels, intestinal immunity, enzyme levels, food allergies, inflammatory markers, bowel flora health and any type of worm. Hormone testing can also help to determine any imbalances in the thyroid, adrenal glands or reproductive hormones. Heavy metal tests will reveal the presence of any dangerous build-ups in the body and Allergy testing will determine the immune systems reaction to certain substances.
Although each patient’s treatment plan will be different there are some common approaches that can be discussed. The main treatment topics for CFS are:
The immune system is a complex network that affects all functions of the body. In order to restore and rejuvenate the immune system, a multi-factor approach must be taken.
The first area to address is sleep. Most CFS patients haven’t slept well in years and are taking tranquilizers, muscle relaxants and over-the- counter sleep aides to get them to sleep. Although they are taking these medications, few actually go into deep, restorative sleep. It is in this deep sleep (REM sleep) that the body repairs itself by making human growth hormone (HGH) and other hormones that help repair damaged muscles, tissues, and organs. Deep sleep also builds and rejuvenates the immune system. Restoring sleep often results in an immediate increase in energy and well-being.
5-HTP is a potent natural sleep aide which is derived from the plant Griffonia simplicifolia. 5-HTP is converted directly into serotonin in the body. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, or brain hormone, responsible for regulating sleep, pain, mood, digestion, and mental clarity.
Serotonin is created by the amino acid 5-Hydroxytrtyptophan (5-HTP) in cooperation with magnesium, and the B vitamins (especially B6, B3 and B12).
Serotonin helps promote deep restorative sleep. Serotonin also raises a person’s pain threshold (decreases pain), normalizes digestion (eliminates problems associated with irritable bowel syndrome), increases mental function, elevates mood (reduces anxiety and depression), and is known as the “happy hormone.” The higher one’s serotonin level, the higher their pain threshold (less pain).
Melatonin is the primary hormone of the pineal gland and acts to regulate the body’s sleep/wake cycle (circadian rhythm). Normally melatonin levels in your body begin to rise in the mid to late evening, remain high for most of the night, and then decline in the early morning hours. Some things can work against your body’s production of melatonin. Levels gradually decline with age, and some older adults produce very small amounts or none at all.
When administered in pharmacological doses (1-9mgs), melatonin acts as a powerful sleep regulating agent that controls the circadian rhythm (the sleep/wake cycle).
The adrenals are a pair of pea-sized glands located atop each kidney. The adrenal gland consists of two sections: the medulla (inner portion) and the cortex (outer portion). The adrenal glands release certain hormones that allow us to be able to deal with immediate and long term stress. These glands and the hormones they release enable us to be resilient to stress.
Under-active adrenal glands are evident in about two-thirds of CFS patients. They have literally burned out their stress-coping gland. Amid years of poor sleep, unrelenting fatigue, chronic pain, excessive stimulants, poor diet, and relying on a plethora of prescription medications, the adrenal glands and the hormones they release have been used up. Once adrenal exhaustion sets in, it’s not long before the body begins to break down. Getting “stressed out” and staying “stressed out” is the beginning of chronic illness.
There are 2 self tests that you can do to see if you have adrenal fatigue:
Orthostatic Blood Pressure: normal blood pressure is approximately 120/80. The first number is called the systolic pressure and the second number is the diastolic pressure. Have someone take your blood pressure while you are lying down and then again after quickly standing up. The systolic (the first number) pressure should rise 8- 10mm. A drop or failure to rise may be an indication of adrenal fatigue.
Pupil Dilation Test: face a mirror and shine a flashlight in one eye. If after 30 seconds the pupil (black center) starts to dilate (enlarge), adrenal fatigue should be suspected. During adrenal insufficiency there is a deficiency in sodium and an abundance of potassium. This imbalance causes an inhibition of the muscles of the eye to constrict (shrink).
The most accurate way to detect adrenal fatigue is through a lab test using a saliva sample.
Adrenal cortical extracts help to repair and restore normal adrenal function. Adrenal extracts are used to replenish and eventually normalize adrenal function. They have a strong advantage over prescription adrenal hormone replacement in that they can be immediately discontinued once they have done their job of repairing adrenal function.
Adrenal extracts have been used successfully to treat many conditions related to adrenal fatigue. They can increase energy and help to speed recovery from illness.
Certain herbs also have a direct impact on the adrenal glands. Herbs such as Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Borage (Borago officinalis), Ashwagandha (Withania somniferum) are classed as “Adaptogens”. Adaptogens strengthen the adrenal glands and help the body to adapt easier to emotional and physical stress.
Vitamin C is the most important nutrient in facilitating adrenal function and repair. Daily Vitamin C supplementation has shown to increase the strength and function of the adrenal glands.
The adrenal cortex, when healthy, produces adequate levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).
DHEA is notoriously low in CFS patients. Chronic stress initially causes the adrenals to release extra cortisol. Continuous stress raises cortisol to abnormally high levels. Then the adrenal glands get to where they can’t keep up with the demand for more cortisol. As the cortisol levels continue to become depleted from on going stress the body attempts to counteract this by releasing more DHEA. Eventually they can’t produce enough cortisol or DHEA. Aging makes holding on to DHEA even tougher. Even in healthy individuals, DHEA levels begin to drop after the age of 30. By age 70, they are at about 20% of their peak levels. DHEA levels should be confirmed by lab testing before supplementation begins.
Thymus extracts have proven to be one of the best immune-boosting agents for treating CFS. A recent study published in the Journal of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine showed that patients taking a thymus extract, obtained dramatic improvements in their CFS symptoms. The increase in their immune function, as demonstrated by blood tests, resulted in myriad benefits: a 47% improvement in sleep quality, a 43% reduction in food sensitivities, a 53% reduction in chemical sensitivities, a 47% improvement in short-term memory, a 79% improvement in depression symptoms, and a 100% improvement in panic disorder symptoms.
A substantial amount of clinical data now supports the effectiveness of using thymus extracts. They may well provide the answer to chronic viral infections and low immune function. Double-blind studies reveal not only that orally administrated thymus extracts are able to effectively eliminate infection, but also that treatment over the course of a year significantly reduced the number of respiratory infections and significantly improved numerous immune functions.
There are also a number of herbs that restore immune vitality. These herbs work by increasing immune resistance, endurance, energy, resistance to stress and decrease the effects of mental and physical exhaustion leading to a strong and resilient immune system. These herbs include Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), Wild Indigo (Baptisia tinctoria), Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia), Poke root (Phytolacca decandra), Pau d’arco (Tabebuia avellan edae), Ashwagandha, (Withania somniferum), Cleavers (Galium aperine) and Cat’s claw (Unicaria tormentosa).
Viruses, Candida, parasites and other infections are often present in patients with CFS. Whether these infections in combination are the cause of CFS or opportunistic invaders of a weakened immune system has not yet been proven. In either case, compromised immunity is a central feature of the syndrome, and the infections involved perpetuate and deepen immune dysfunction by further taxing an already overloaded system.
Candida albicans is a particular form of yeast found living in the intestinal tracts of most individuals. Yeasts cohabitate in a symbiotic relationship with over 400 healthy intestinal bacteria. These bacteria help produce short-chain fatty acids, vitamin K, biotin, vitamin B12, thiamin, and riboflavin. These bacteria also keep the yeast that inhabit our intestinal tract in check. When these good bacteria die (from antibiotics) or are suppressed (by prescription steroids), the yeasts are allowed to grow to unhealthy levels, causing dysbiosis (unhealthy balance between the good and bad bacteria). Yeast overgrowth is similar to food allergies in that there are a plethora of associated symptoms. This can lead to skepticism in many doctors; the symptoms are tough to define. Candidiasis commonly infects the ears, nose urinary and intestinal tracts.
Like most opportunistic infections, Candida and other yeasts may increase during times of stress. This overgrowth leaks toxins into the bloodstream or other tissues, allowing antigens (foreign invaders) to set up residence in various bodily tissues. Antigens then trigger complex allergic reactions. (This might explain why most individuals with chronic yeast overgrowth develop food, inhalant, and environmental allergies).
Allergic reactions can manifest in a variety of symptoms: fatigue, brain fog, depression, joint and muscle pain, digestive disorders, headache, rash, and breathing problems. Inflammation of the nose, throat, ears, bladder, and intestinal tract, can lead to infections of the sinus, respiratory, ear, bladder and intestinal membranes. In an attempt to arrest these infections, doctors might prescribe a broad spectrum antibiotic. Such antibiotics promote yeast overgrowth and often times, additional symptoms. It invades the intestinal wall creating intestinal permeability. This allows toxins from microorganisms and protein molecules from your food enter the blood stream.
Remember, yeast feeds on sugars and on carbohydrates that easily convert to sugars. In turn, yeasts produce a series of chemical products as waste, among which are acetaldehyde and ethanol.
Ethanol is alcohol, and there are cases of people who have never drunk a drop of alcohol yet are daily inebriated. Acetaldehyde is produced as the alcohol breaks down and is about six times more toxic to brain tissue than ethanol.
Birth control pills, food allergies, antibiotics, chronic stress, poor diet and corticosteroid therapy are all initiators of yeast overgrowth. A minor increase in intestinal yeast is usually not a problem, leading possibly to infection of the mouth (thrush) or vaginal lining (vaginitis or “a yeast infection”). The body’s immune defenses are usually strong enough to keep the yeast from taking over the intestinal tract.
However, if yeast overgrowth is left unchallenged, more sinister symptoms appear. Yeasts can change into an invasive mycellial fungus with rhizoids (tentacle-like projections) that penetrate the lining of the intestinal tract. These projections can cause intestinal permeability and leak toxins across the cellular membranes.
Sometimes, when a lot of Candida organisms are killed off during initial treatment, a sudden release of toxic substances results in an immune response and intensified symptoms, called the herxheimer reaction. The body becomes extremely acidic. This is known as a die- off reaction. It normally lasts no longer than a week and is frequently confused as an allergic or adverse reaction to the antifungal treatment.
If the reaction is severe, you might need to reduce your antifungal medications. Half the dosage (or take every other day) for a week and then return to the original dose. Then continue antifungal medications for a minimum of three months. If treatment is discontinued too early, symptoms will gradually return.
Once fungus overgrowth has subsided and yeast levels have returned to normal (three–four months), medications and supplements can be gradually decreased over six–eight weeks, and you can gradually add previously forbidden foods to your diet. Continue to be vigilant in monitoring your sugar and simple carbohydrate intake.
Alternative Medicine Practitioners working with CFS know that removing toxins from the body is an essential phase in restoring their patients to health and vitality. Every year people are exposed to thousands of toxic chemicals and pollutants in air, water, food and soil. People living today carry within their bodies a “chemical cocktail” made up of industrial chemicals, pesticides, food additives, heavy metals, general anesthetics and the residue of conventional medications.
Today, people are exposed to chemicals in far greater concentrations than were previous generations. For example, over 70 million North Americans live in areas that exceed smog standards, and most municipal drinking water contains over 700 chemicals, including excessive levels of lead. Some 3000 chemicals are added to the food supply and as many as 10 000 chemicals- in the form of solvents, emulsifiers, and preservatives- are used in food processing and storage. These can remain in the body for years!
Detoxifying the body is another component in promoting the health of the immune system and addressing other factors that may be contributing to the CFS. As our environment and food are increasingly saturated with chemicals, the body’s mechanisms for elimination of toxins cannot keep up with the chemical deluge. The constant circulation of toxins in the body taxes the immune system, which must continually strive to destroy them.
When combined with multiple infections and nutritional deficiencies, this toxic overload may be the proverbial last straw in the development of CFS. Given that many people with CFS have chemical allergies it is advisable to take measures to remove the toxins stored in the body.
There are many different ways to rid the body of toxins. The most important thing to remember is that cleansing the liver is the key. The liver is the main filter of the body; therefore everything that enters the body must be processed by the liver. Other organs of elimination that also need cleansing are the kidneys, lungs, skin, lymphatic system and the blood.
1. Eliminate the intake of toxins
You must stop bombarding your body with more toxins. Cleansing cannot take place until the intake of the toxic load is reduced. Avoid processed foods that contain additives and preservatives. Consume organic foods whenever possible. Stop smoking. Drink filtered water and use natural products whenever possible.
Even though you have reduced the entry of new toxins into your body, old toxins are still in your bloodstream, lymph nodes and organs.
Treatments should include herbal cleansing, detoxification diets, infrared sauna treatments and if needed colon hydrotherapy treatments. A cleanse should include dietary modifications to eliminate the most inflammatory and toxic foods from the diet. Avoidance of the following foods during a cleanse is best: wheat, dairy, sugar, refined, processed foods, additives, colorings, preservatives and any other known allergens.
The addition of cleansing herbs and nutrients will help to not only detoxify the body but also re-build it from the damage. Herbs such as Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinalis), Milk thistle (Carduus marianus), Burdock root (Arctium lappa), Red clover (Trifolium pratense), Barberry (Berberis vulgaris), Turkey rhubarb (Rheum spp.) and Cleavers (Galium aperine) are all example of cleansing herbs.
Certain nutrients that are also beneficial include glutathione and alpha lipoic acid.
Now that the cleansing is complete, it is time to support your body’s natural restoration and defenses. To support the body’s biochemistry, the addition of minerals, enzymes, probiotics, vitamins, pure water, amino acids, herbs and essential fatty acids should begin as needed.
Many CFS patients suffer from unknown food allergies. Uncovering and avoiding these foods often yields substantial improvement in their lingering symptoms. Allergy is defined as a hypersensitive state acquired through exposure to a particular allergen and subsequent re- exposure to the same allergen. This then triggers an inappropriate immune response such as breathing in pollen and then sneezing. An allergen is defined as a substance capable of inducing an allergic response.
The two most common allergy tests, a skin prick test and the radioallergosorbent test (RAST), are good at detecting acute or immediate allergic responses (IgE antibodies). But, they don’t measure the delayed sensitivity responses to food.
95% of all food allergies occur one hour to three days after eating allergic foods. These delayed reactions must be measured using a different antibody, immunoglobulin G1-4 (IgG1-4). Two tests that do measure delayed IgG1-4 reactions are the Enzyme-linked Immuno- absorbent Assay (ELISA) test and the Food Immune Complex Assay (FICA) test. Both offer the convenience and accuracy of measuring both types of antibodies.
Intestinal permeability occurs when the lining of the digestive tract becomes permeable (leaky) to toxins that cause chronic inflammation. Intestinal permeability allows toxins to leak out of the digestive tract and into the bloodstream. This triggers an autoimmune reaction that can create pain and inflammation in any of the body’s tissues. The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, antibiotics, antihistamines, caffeine, alcohol, and other prescription and nonprescription drugs renders the intestinal mucosa permeable to toxins and undigested food particles.
Studies show that most individuals with CFS are plagued with intestinal permeability. A treatment program for patients with CFS that reduced allergic foods and used nutritional supplements to increase liver detoxification yielded an 81.2% reduction in symptoms.
“Why did this person get this illness at this time?” Alternative Medicine Practitioners ask such questions because they realize that illness is more than a matter of imbalanced physiology. There are always psychological and emotional aspects to every health problem and unless these are thoroughly addressed, no cure will ever be complete and lasting.
Lifestyle choices, including how one thinks and acts, can contribute to chronic fatigue. For example, a lifestyle of high-paced overachievement or workaholism characterizes the lives of many CFS sufferers prior to becoming sick. For some people dealing with unremitting fatigue is the only way they will ever take the time to focus on their internal world. While not all CFS patients have the same psychological make-up, all of them do have psychological issues that play a contributing role in their illness, and these mental and emotional factors constantly interact with their physiological condition. For true and complete healing to be successful the CFS patient must “learn the lesson of the disease”. They must not to repeat the emotional, psychological and lifestyle patterns that contributed to their illness. Working with a trained professional to help deal with some of the emotional baggage is one of the keys to healing.
Chronic fatigue syndrome is a complex multi-symptomatic disorder which requires a broad spectrum of treatments. There are no known proven causes, but rather a variety of contributing factors that are unique to each person with CFS. Studies show that this syndrome may eventually burn itself out within an average of 8 years. In the meantime there are many natural treatments to lessen the severity of the symptoms and to reverse the underlying causes. Once a diagnosis has been achieved through the symptom picture and a process of elimination of all other similar conditions, specific tests will determine one’s own unique causative factors.
The specific tests that can help to pinpoint an appropriate treatment plan are:
There have been many people treated successfully for CFS using natural remedies. Natural medicine can help people get their health back and live life with abundant joy, peace and well-being.
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STRESSED? TIRED? CRAVING SUGAR? CAN’T SLEEP?
These symptoms can be related to the constant stress we feel in our lives. We know that stress can have a huge impact on our health and wellness. The adrenal glands produce hormones in response to any type of stress so that we can respond appropriately. Adrenal fatigue or “HPA (Hypothalamus, Pituitary, Adrenal) Axis Dysregulation,” is a popular topic due to the ever-increasing stressors in our lives.
The adrenal glands look like walnuts that are located on top of the kidneys. These important glands produce many hormones, including the stress hormones, Cortisol, DHEA and Adrenaline to name a few.
Adrenaline and Cortisol are the stress hormones that give you the commonly known “adrenaline rush”. This feeling is known as your body's "fight or flight" response. The release of hormones in the fight or flight response is your body's normal reaction to stress. Stress can sometimes be positive, like when it helps you to swerve your car and prevent a crash. Once the stress is removed or resolved, the fight or flight response dissipates and your body goes back to normal.
Unfortunately, for many people the stressors do not get resolved and they often become chronic. The adrenal glands do not differentiate between “types” of stress. They respond equally to all forms of stress including mental and emotional stress as well as pain, inflammation, blood sugar imbalances, environmental, digestive and toxic stress.
DO YOU HAVE ADRENAL FATIGUE?
Your adrenal glands can become depleted from over-secreting stress hormones on such a regular basis and dysfunction can occur. In the case of adrenal fatigue, the level of Cortisol that is produced is much less than optimal. Many symptoms like fatigue, difficulty sleeping, mood swings, weight gain, joint pain, allergies, anxiety, sugar cravings, frequent infections such as colds and flus are signs that your adrenals are overworked. The following questionnaire will help to determine your adrenal health status:
ADRENAL HEALTH QUESTIONNAIRE
The following questionnaire will help to determine your level of adrenal fatigue.
Read each statement and decide its degree of severity based on the ranking system below.
0= Never
1= Occasionally (1-4 times per month)
2= Moderate in severity and occurs moderately frequently (1-4 times per week)
3= Intense in severity and occurs frequently (more than 4 times per week)
****Fundamentals of Naturopathic Endocrinology Michael Friedman, MD pg. 218-220
INTERPRETATION:
TOTAL SCORE:
Under 40: Very slight or no adrenal fatigue
41-80: Mild adrenal fatigue
81-120: Moderate adrenal fatigue
Above 120: Severe adrenal fatigue
The following action steps are essential for achieving optimal adrenal health and stress management:
ACTION STEPS FOR OPTIMAL ADRENAL HEALTH
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The delicate symphony of hormones that occur within the endocrine system can be easily disrupted in many different ways. The sheer act of aging can result in the endocrine system being upset.
As reproductive functions play out over time, hormone levels naturally decline. If the hormones decline too quickly, this can trigger the onset of early menopause and can cause other hormone imbalances associated with the change of life. Lifestyle habits play a major role in the pace of hormonal decline and premature aging.
Hormone balance is deeply connected to many different factors including nutrition, exercise, detoxification capabilities, obesity and stress levels. At midlife, the already overstressed adrenal glands must take over much of the hormone production previously handled by the ovaries. Chronic stress which exceeds the body's capabilities causes excess cortisol to consequently flood the system and disrupt the total hormone production.
The body sacrifices its own progesterone in order to make even more cortisol in response to the chronic stress. This depletes the key balancing hormone progesterone with obvious implications for estrogen dominance. Prolonged stress deteriorates our bones, atrophies our muscles, decreases strength and energy, lowers libido and overwhelms our immune system. This puts women at serious risk for severe menopausal symptoms as well as chronic illnesses and autoimmune diseases. Many women's ailments are linked to specific hormonal imbalances which can be triggered by any one or a combination of the following:
Top Lab Tests to Uncover Hidden Road Blocks to Weight Loss
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]]>In 1991, the field of xenoestrogens was first introduced to the world. Xenoestrogens are foreign estrogens as “xeno” literally means foreign. Not found in nature, man-made toxins are estrogen imposters that make their way into the body, pretending to be our own estrogen. They mimic the effects of the real hormone but over-stimulate cellular activity to an uncontrollable extent. Xenoestrogens are present in our soil, water, air and food supply as well as in personal care and household products. Xenoestrogens accumulate in the fat tissues of our bodies and have the capability of locking into our own estrogen’s receptor sites. Xenoestrogens are highly toxic and harmful to our body and are one of the top causes of hormone imbalances!
HERE ARE SOME INTERESTING FACTS TO CONSIDER:
HOW TO REDUCE YOUR EXPOSURE TO XENOESTROGENS IN YOUR HOME
According to Environmental Defence, you should avoid the following eleven toxic ingredients:
THE KITCHEN
THE PANTRY
Try these brands: San Remo Organics, Eat Wholesome Food Co., Amy’s Organics, Pacific, Trader Joe’s and Imagine
SIDE NOTE- BPA- WHY YOU NEED TO AVOID IT!
The Environment Defense recently set out to test 192 food cans that were collected from major retailers in North America and this is what they found:
BPA was officially declared toxic in Canada in 2010 but it clearly still lurks in most of our canned food sources. BPA has been shown in repeated scientific studies to greatly increase the risk of breast and prostate cancers, infertility, early puberty in females, type-2 diabetes, obesity, asthma and impaired neurological development in children. Purchase BPA free canned goods only!
THE FRIDGE
Try these brands: Organic food delivered right to your door- www.spud.ca; www.bluemoonorganics.com; www.chefsplate.com
COOKING AND PLASTICS
Try these brands: Click here for the top 10 nonstick pans http://www.allcookwarefind.com/Non-Stick/
FOOD-STORAGE CONTAINERS
Try these brands: Click here for a variety of safer food and beverage storage options https://well.ca/categories/natural-food-drink-storage_2902.html http://www.naturalathome.com/product-category/food-storage-containers
Click here for more information on water filtration systems https://wellnessmama.com/8079/water-filter-options/
HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS
Try these brands: Use this link to order Norwex cleaning products and partial proceeds go towards the Dr Cobi Scholarship fund to help those in need with health issues-http://sandraoben.norwex.biz/en_CA/customer/party/2009734
www.honest.com; www.seventhgeneration.com
Click here for Do It Yourself Recipes http://greatist.com/health/27-chemical-free-products-diy-spring-cleaning
HEALTH AND BEAUTY PRODUCTS
Most people do not have the resources to replace all their products at once. Start with the products that you use the most often. Examples include: moisturizer, sunscreen, mascara, soap, face wash, deodorant, makeup, lip products, shampoo, conditioner and toothpaste.
The following 3 tools will help you to determine if what you are using is toxic to your body:
http://environmentaldefence.ca/report/the-toxic-ten-pocket-guide/
https://www.thinkdirtyapp.com/
HERE ARE TIPS TO GET YOU STARTED:
TRY THESE GREEN BEAUTY BRANDS:
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What can be done...
Stress is an unavoidable fact of life. Fortunately we have physiologic systems in place to help us cope in our response to stress. When our bodies are under stress, our adrenal glands produce hormones in order for us to respond to the stress. The adrenals or stress glands produce the hormones cortisol and DHEA which create the short and long term hormone responses. The adrenals also produce adrenalin which stimulates the instant stress hormone response otherwise known as "fight or flight". Chronic exposure to stress can result in what is known as the General Adaptation Syndrome, which has three major stages.
Alarm Stage
In the Alarm stage, bursts of the hormones cortisol and adrenaline are released in response to a stressor, resulting in the traditional "fight, flight or freeze" responses.
Resistance Stage
In the resistance stage, the body uses high cortisol levels to free up stored energy that helps the body physically resist the stressor. It is now known that a prolonged resistance stage may increase the risk of developing stress related diseases. If cortisol levels remain elevated, symptoms may include feeling tired but wired, having difficulty sleeping, weight gain around the waist, high blood pressure, hair loss, muscle mass loss and anxiety. Excess cortisol also interferes with the action of other hormones like progesterone, testosterone and thyroid which further creates more imbalances and increasing symptoms.
Exhaustion Stage
At this stage, the adrenals are either depleted from producing too much cortisol or are reacting to the detrimental effects of high cortisol. This reduces the cortisol production significantly. Symptoms of low cortisol include fatigue (especially morning fatigue), increased susceptibility to infections, decreased recovery from exercise, allergies, low blood sugar, a burned out feeling, depression and low sex drive.
How can you tell if you have Adrenal Fatigue?*
You may be suffering from Adrenal Fatigue if you regularly experience one or more of the following symptoms:
Adrenal function can be measured through a saliva test called the Adrenal Stress Index or ASI and can be done by a natural medicine practitioner. The ASI measures the levels of the adrenal hormones throughout the day in order to get a true account of the fluctuations that should occur. Levels of DHEA and cortisol vary according to the level of stress and for how long that stress has been occurring.
Increasing cortisol production is the normal response to stress and is highly desirable as long as the stress is removed and the adrenal glands can recover. Ongoing, unremitting stress means the adrenal glands and the whole body is in a constant state of alert, does not get time to recover, and eventually becomes exhausted. Identifying which stage you are in is extremely important in order to have the right treatment plan implemented.
With proper treatment most people can fully recover from Adrenal Fatigue. Improving your weakened or exhausted adrenals should include several measures including:
It is suggested that 60% of the population suffer from some type of allergic response. As we subject our bodies and immune systems to more stress, this number is rising. In truth, anybody can be allergic to anything and the reactions can express themselves in any area of the body. The question remains, why are some people affected while others are left unscathed?
An allergic predisposition may be inherited if one of both parents has allergies. The 3 most common allergenic reactions know to be inherited are hay fever, asthma and eczema. A person with one or more of this triad is said to be “Atopic”. Atopic individuals have a strong family correlation even though the form may switch or even skip a generation. Atopic individuals have up to 50% more T-Helper cells (immune cells) and therefore react more rapidly to low levels of offending invaders. Studies also show that low levels of digestive enzymes and depleted levels of immune cells in the lining of the gut permit easier entry of allergens into the blood stream.
Any factors which impair immune function will predispose a person to allergies. These factors include stress (emotional or physical), poor nutrition, smoking, drugs (prescription or recreational) and over-consumption of artificial and processed foods.
Our immune system manifests the allergy symptoms as a way of detoxifying the body of what it sees as invaders. This response is not normal and occurs mainly in those who have a hyper stimulated or overly sensitive immune system.
Treating allergies with pharmaceuticals is a purely symptomatic approach with dependency on the drugs often occurring. There are many undesirable side-effects of the drugs which often lead to the need for more drugs to treat the side-effects. This cycle continues to weaken the immune system and the allergies tend to get worse each year.
The holistic approach to allergies is the rebalancing and the regulation of the over- stressed immune system through the use of herbs, nutritional supplements and nutritional changes. Once the immune system is functioning optimally, it will not continue to produce the same strong reactions and then allergies decrease and most times disappear.
During seasonal allergy issues, avoiding certain foods can dramatically help to reduce symptoms. The main foods to avoid if you are experiencing allergy symptoms include: wheat, sugar, dairy, peanuts, corn and soy. Patients often report a significant reduction in symptoms when avoiding these food triggers.
A netti pot can also be very helpful. Rinse nasal sinuses twice daily with warm water and ½ tsp. sea salt to help to clear sinuses of all allergens.
Dr Cobi’s Top Picks for Seasonal Allergies
Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) treats the cause of allergies by giving small doses of the allergen to the patient. Exposure to these small doses over time increases the immunity or tolerance to the allergens and reduces the allergenic symptoms.
HOW DOES SUBLINGUAL IMMUNOTHERAPY WORK?
Dr Cobi Slater has joined forces with a compounding pharmacy specializing in allergy desensitization. A customized formula is compounded for each patient. SLIT is given as drops under the tongue. The patient will take 1 drop under the tongue twice daily (that is it!). Research shows then when an allergen is presented this way, the immune system learns to tolerate the allergen. The result is less allergy symptoms when the body is exposed to the allergy source such as airborne pollen or pet dander.
SLIT OR ALLERGY SHOTS?
Like injection therapy, SLIT directly changes the body's ability to react with allergens. Allergy shots are effective, but need to be given in a physician's office. This inconvenience results in high drop off rates for many patients. Sublingual immunotherapy offers a great alternative treatment option for people reluctant or unable to undergo allergy shots.
WHAT ARE MY CHOICES?
Pre-seasonal: a quick buildup of antigen 30 to 60 days prior to and throughout the offending allergen season (this is done yearly).
Co-seasonal: Year-round treatment for an average of 2-3 years to eliminate allergy symptoms for good.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO SEE RESULTS WITH SLIT?
The vast majority of patients’ experience marked symptom relief within the first few months of starting treatment. As with all allergy immunotherapy, long term, lasting results require 2 to 5 years of treatment (average length of treatment is 3 years). Research shows that committing to the full therapy can result in permanent symptom relief. No more allergies!
SLIT IS PROVEN!
With over 60 clinical trials proving efficacy, endorsement from the World Health Organization, the World Allergy Organization and the Cochrane Collaboration, SLIT is proven to be effective, safe and well tolerated.
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
Book your appointment with Dr Cobi to discuss your custom compounded allergy desensitizing program.
Here is what a few patients had to say......
''My son absolutely refused allergy shots so we decided to try the drops. I can't believe the difference. He is no longer suffering at night with sneezing and itchy eyes and his snoring has stopped entirely.
- L. Martin, Calgary AB
"Thanks to allergy drops I no longer have to rely on antihistamines for relief of my grass and tree allergies. I can enjoy golf again."
- K Grant, Victoria BC
"I am so relieved and happy that I can now live allergy free with my dogs now that I am on the SLIT program!"
- M Cartin, Maple Ridge, BC
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Cold laser therapy, otherwise known as low level laser therapy (LLLT) is a painless and non-invasive physical therapy procedure that has been scientifically proven to increase healing in a targeted area by over 400%! LLLT is approved by Health Canada as an effective procedure to manage chronic pain and it has been shown to achieve long-term results when other therapies have failed. Laser therapy at Essential Health involves a Class 3 laser, which is today’s standard in LLLT care, producing effects on everything from skin and muscles to nerves and bones. The laser therapy technicians at Essential Health are certified and have extensive experience and are always working under the supervision of Dr Cobi.
Conditions commonly treated by laser therapy:
A laser therapy appointment at Essential Health will involve:
Laser Therapy FAQs
What is laser therapy?
Low Intensity Laser Therapy is the use of low intensity lasers to treat musculoskeletal injuries as well as chronic and degenerative conditions.
This advanced technology utilizes super-luminous laser diodes of specific wavelengths to treat tissue with photon energy. These particles of energy are absorbed by the mitochondria within a cell. Mitochondria's function is to produce a fuel called ATP. Laser therapy increases the amount of ATP produced in the mitochondria thereby greatly accelerating the body’s natural healing process.
How does laser therapy work?
Laser arrays are placed in contact with the skin allowing light energy to penetrate tissue where it interacts with cells resulting in restoration of normal cell function. This enhances the body’s natural healing abilities, reducing inflammation and pain, improving range of motion and reducing the need for medications and even surgery.
Low Intensity Laser Therapy does not heat or cut tissue. Unlike many pharmacological treatments that mask pain or only address the symptoms of the disease, Laser Therapy treats the underlying condition or pathology to promote lasting healing.
Is laser therapy safe?
Yes. Hundreds of research studies have shown Laser Therapy to be safe and effective. Laser Therapy is non-invasive, non-toxic and non-thermal. Laser Therapy is beneficial rather than harmful to tissue.
Does it hurt? What will I feel?
No, the procedure is non-invasive, non-toxic and non-thermal. As opposed to high-intensity lasers, the lasers used in this procedure are considered cold lasers as they do not produce heat and have no associated discomfort.
How long does a treatment take?
Depending on the area being treated as well as patient factors, treatments typically take between 30 to 45 minutes.
How many treatments are necessary?
The average number of treatments required is 10 but will vary with regard to the individual problem as every patient and condition responds to Laser Therapy uniquely.
Are there any contraindications?
The only instances in which laser therapy should be avoided are treating over the womb of pregnant women and over the site of a cancerous tumor as the research on treating these areas are limited.
Please note that it is NOT a contraindication to have pins, metal plates, plastic or pacemakers.
What else will I need to do alongside laser treatments?
Nothing is necessary to do alongside laser treatments. If stretching or other exercises are needed, they will be prescribed on an individual basis. Laser therapy is a passive treatment; all you need to do is show up, we will do all the work. The great thing about it is that the healing effects of the laser continue to work long after treatments stop. Low intensity laser therapy initiates a process that lasts long after ‘the lights go out’.
Are treatments covered by extended medical?
Many extended medical plans do cover laser therapy. However, it varies between plans so you should check with your provider.
How much do laser therapy treatments cost?
A single treatment of 1 area is $50. A double treatment of 2 areas is $75.
Call our clinic to book your laser therapy appointment at 604 467 9554.
]]>Healthy, tasty and quick...the perfect combination. Serves 4.
Ingredients-Salad
Ingredients- Dressing
Instructions-Dressing
Instructions-Salad
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A lack of sleep affects just about everything in your body and mind. Inadequate sleep increases the risk for many health issues such as: diabetes, heart disease and certain types of cancer. It also slows the metabolism, causes weight gain, hormone imbalances and inflammation. The impact that a lack of sleep can have also extends to mood regulation as well as memory and decision-making skills.
Did you know that lack of sleep may even negate the health benefits of your exercise program?
The three main purposes of sleep include the following:
In 2006 a study that followed more than 68,000 women for 16 years looked at the “Association between Reduced Sleep and Weight Gain in Women”. It found that those who slept five hours or less a night were more likely to gain more weight than those who got seven hours of sleep a night. Insufficient sleep dulls brain activity, specifically in the frontal lobe which is responsible for impulse control and decision making. This can most certainly lead to poor decisions due to a lack of mental clarity when it comes to food choices. In addition to the dampening of the frontal lobe, the brain’s reward center is stimulated when there is a lack of sleep. Stimulation of this area causes a person to look for something to make them feel good and this is often sugar and carbohydrate laden foods that feel comforting.
There are 2 very important hormones that control our appetite center and a lack of sleep can cause an imbalance in these hormones leading to weight gain and/or weight resistance. Sleep deprivation increases a hormone called ghrelin which triggers appetite and decreases one called leptin which signals that you are full.
SIGNS OF SLEEP DISTURBANCES
Difficulty sleeping can be a short term situation or can turn into a chronic problem. The following list describes issues related to chronic sleep disturbances:
TIPS FOR SLEEPING WELL
Below are some tips to help you get the sleep you need. It is also important to remember that getting too much sleep (over 9 hours) can be just as unhealthy.
Serves 1-2
INGREDIENTS:
INSTRUCTIONS:
TIP: You can try this with other nut or seed butters to see which flavour combination you like the best.
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High in Vitamin D, Magnesium & Omega-3’s
Serves 2
Ingredients
Directions
Tip: When looking for canned salmon try to get the ones with the most vitamin D and make sure cans are BPA-free. Good quality canned fish is usually found in the “natural foods” section of many large grocery stores. If you live in my hometown of Maple Ridge, then head over to Bruce’s Country Market for some of their famous wild caught canned or fresh salmon.
]]>There are 3 main supplements that are an absolute must if you are over the age of 40. There are many other very beneficial supplements but these ones build a strong foundation for optimal health.
Many people are simply not eating enough foods that contain these three critical nutrients and the result is that deficiencies are becoming more and more common.
I'll tell you which three and why in my latest article.
3 SUPPLEMENTS YOU SHOULD BE TAKING IF YOU ARE OVER 40 YEARS OLD
SUPPLEMENT #1: VITAMIN D3/K2
If you live in North America, chances are that you are low in vitamin D3. It is the “sunshine vitamin” and we are just not able to hang out in shorts every day of the year! During the summer months when exposure to the sun occurs more regularly, sunscreen blocks our chances of absorbing any natural vitamin D3.
Vitamin D3 is very important for everyone but this is especially true for women over 40 years of age.
Vitamin D3 helps our body absorb and keep the calcium that we obtain from our diet. Calcium is one of the main components in our bones of and Vitamin D3 therefore strengthens our bones more than any other nutrients. Vitamin D3 also decreases the risk of age related falls.
Here are some other key benefits of Vitamin D3:
The symptoms of a vitamin D deficiency in adults include:
Doctors can diagnose a vitamin D deficiency by performing a simple blood test. Few foods contain vitamin D naturally. Foods that contain vitamin D include:
Take Vitamin D3 with Vitamin K2
The biological role of vitamin K2 is to help move calcium into the proper areas in your body such as your bones and teeth. It also helps remove calcium from areas where it shouldn't be such as in your arteries and soft tissues. Vitamin K2 should be avoided with blood thinners.
Recommended Dosage
Based on the most recent research, the current recommendation is 35 IUs of vitamin D per pound of body weight. Therefore, a child weighing 40 pounds would need 1400 IUs daily and for a 170-pound adult, the dose would be nearly 6,000 IUs.
However, it is important to realize that vitamin D requirements are highly individual because your vitamin D status is dependent on numerous factors such as the color of your skin, your location and how much sunshine you are exposed to on a regular basis.
The following chart shows the recommended blood levels of Vitamin D when testing:
Dr Cobi’s Top Vitamin D3/K2 choice: Thorne Liquid Vitamin D3/K2
SUPPLEMENT #2 MAGNESIUM
Magnesium is an essential mineral needed for over 300 reactions in your body. As with vitamin D3, it is very common for us to simply not get enough from our diet. A Magnesium deficiency is one of the leading nutrient deficiencies in adults with an estimated 80 percent being deficient in this vital mineral.
Risk factors for developing a Magnesium Deficiency include:
Magnesium deficiency symptoms can include the following:
Top food sources of Magnesium
Here are the top 10 foods high in magnesium that you will want to add into your diet:
Types of Magnesium
There are several types of Magnesium supplements but they do not all absorb well. The top 2 types that are easily obtainable and highly absorbable are Magnesium Citrate and Magnesium Glycinate.
Magnesium Citrate is magnesium combined with citric acid. This may have a laxative effect in some cases when taken in high doses but it is otherwise safe to use for improving digestion and preventing or treating constipation.
Magnesium Glycinate is highly absorbable and is recommended for anyone with a known magnesium deficiency and is less likely to cause laxative effects than some other magnesium supplements.
Magnesium Dosage
The “Recommended Daily Allowance” (RDA) for Magnesium is approximately:
The RDA’s were designed to be the minimum amount to prevent obvious symptoms of deficiency but do not necessarily indicate ‘optimal’ functioning for your individual needs. However, researchers believe that these numbers would be too low for a starting dose for supplementation to correct deficiencies and therefore approximately 600 mg would be a better starting dose.
Dr Cobi’s Top Magnesium choices: Magnesium Citrate and Magnesium Glycinate
SUPPLEMENT #3 OMEGA-3
Omega-3 fats are essential to your overall health and have a positive impact on heart and brain function as well as reducing inflammation in the body.
While fish oil supplements contain the “brain healthy” fats called EPA and DHA, these two are not technically the “essential” fats. The plant omega-3 known as ALA is essential and that is because our bodies can convert ALA into EPA and DHA when necessary. Omega-3 comes from both animal and plant sources. The primary animal sources are krill oil and fish oil. The primary plant sources are flaxseed, chia and hemp.
Omega 3’s have been shown to be beneficial for the following conditions:
Omega-3 deficiency symptoms can include poor memory, dry skin, heart conditions, mood swings, joint pain and autoimmune diseases. Deficiencies are common in people who consume a large amount of processed foods, hydrogenated oils and those on a vegan or vegetarian diet.
Top 10 Omega 3 Foods List
Omega 3 Dosages
The recommended general dosage is 1000mg of Omega 3’s.
Certain health conditions also indicate an increased need for omega-3 fats.
Tip: Fish liver oil (i.e. cod liver oil) also contains vitamin D so check your labels and add the amounts together to know how much vitamin D you are actually absorbing.
Dr Cobi’s Top Omega 3 choices: EPA 1000, Opti Mega 3 (contains 1000iu of Vitamin D3 per capsule) and Krill Plex
Always read the supplement labels to see if there are warnings that would make them inappropriate for you. If you have any medical conditions or take medications or other supplements, it is always a good idea to speak with your medical practitioner before starting anything new.
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I remember when I was first introduced to Apple Cider Vinegar. I was in my first year of Natural Medicine School and one of my classmates would put Apple Cider Vinegar on her lunch every day. I absolutely hated the smell and would eat lunch outside just to avoid it. After a little while I started to tolerate the smell and asked her why she consumed it so often. My classmate said that it dramatically reduced her heavy menstrual flow and cramps. I was intrigued to say the least and over time I learned to love the smell and crave the taste!
Apple Cider Vinegar has many medicinal qualities to it including: antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, immune and metabolism boosting!
Here are the top uses for Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV):
Skin and Hair
Menstrual Cycle
Digestive System
Joint Health
Immune System
Metabolism
Around the House
The Apple Cider Vinegar that needs to be used is on the organic, unfiltered, and raw version of apple cider vinegar that contains the ‘mother’ strand of proteins, enzymes and friendly bacteria.
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Ingredients:
• 1 ½ cups sweet potato, cooked and mashed
• ½ cup coconut flour
• 2 scoops Chocolate or Vanilla Vegan protein powder (optional)
• ¼ cup coconut Oil, melted
• 1 tbsp coconut sugar
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground vanilla bean or extract
• 1 tsp baking soda
• Pinch of sea salt
• 1/3-1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
• Preheat oven to 350F. Line an 8x8 or 9x9 brownie pan with parchment paper.
• In a large mixing bowl, add all ingredients except the chocolate chips. Stir until well combined. The dough will be slightly thick, but still smooth.
• Fold in the chocolate chips and gently stir to combine. Pour dough into brownie pan and smooth out. Bake until edges start to turn golden brown, roughly 25 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing into squares. • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Herpes simplex is a virus responsible for recurrent eruptions of small and usually painful blisters. When they appear around the mouth or on the lips, they are often called "cold sores". When they appear on the genital or adjacent areas, they are referred to as "lesions".
The hallmark of a herpes infection is a blister or cluster of blisters that often feels tingly and itchy at first, becoming sore later, eventually crusting over and disappearing.
An initial episode of herpes may produce fever, malaise and enlargement of local lymph nodes. Recurrences are usually milder but may begin with a brief period of general fatigue and a feeling of flu-like symptoms. Once a person has been infected, the virus will live in different areas of the nervous system for life. This sneaky virus actually lives in nerve cells where the immune system cannot find it and becomes re-activated from time to time.
Common triggers of herpes outbreaks are colds and other viral infections, fatigue, sun exposure, physical irritation of the skin and emotional stress. Some people are bothered by outbreaks once a year or less, while others may get them every few weeks.
Common Outbreak Triggers
How to Prevent Outbreaks
o Nuts: almonds, walnuts, cashews and peanuts
o Grains: whole wheat, oats, brown rice and even flour products
o Chocolate
o Caffeinated liquids or beverages
How to Treat Outbreaks
Preventative measures are the best way to ensure that recurrent outbreaks don't interrupt your life. It is also important to have the above mentioned natural remedies on hand in case an outbreak does occur and the treatment can be administered immediately!
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Nitrosamines, hetrocyclic amines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are three known carcinogens that you and your family may be consuming daily in certain meat products.
Meats that have been preserved by the use of smoking, curing, salting or adding chemical preservatives are harmful to our health and are linked to several disease states of the body including cancer.
Dr Joseph Mercola explains. "...at the very least, it's known that eating processed meats exposes you to at least three cancer-causing substances namely nitrates and nitrites (leading to nitrosamines), heterocyclic amines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons."
The dangerous additives called sodium nitrate or nitrate are used to preserve, colour and flavour meat. When this meat is consumed, these nitrate compounds are converted to nitrosamines in the stomach. Among side effects such as headaches, nausea, vomiting and dizziness, nitrosamines are also a known cause of the following:
• Esophagus Cancer
• Gliomas
• Larynx Cancer
• Liver Cancer
• Lung Cancer
• Mouth Cancer
• Stomach Cancer
Many meats including bacon, ham, corned beef, Frankfurters, salami, some sausages and hamburgers contain sodium nitrate or nitrates and should be completely eliminated from the diet. On top of containing nitrates, the process of smoking meat causes the formation of cancer causing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons which enter the meat and then us!
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What makes chia a superfood?
Chia is considered one of the “Superfoods”. According to experts like Diane Allen, MS, CNS, a health writer and holistic clinical nutritionist and author of the book Chia Seeds, superfoods offer more than functional foods. To quote Allen “they are nutrient-dense and packed with antioxidants and other powerful health-promoting substances. As a rule, one needs to eat only a small amount of a superfood to get a big benefit.”
Some of the key features of Chia include:
Body odor can range from daisies in a spring meadow to Oscar the grouch's garbage can! There are many things that influence a person's natural scent. Foods such as garlic, onions, spicy peppers and caffeine can cause quite a stench! Simply changing your diet to avoid those offenders and including "green" foods such as chlorophyll and wheat grass can help you to smell fresh.
Natural deodorants are a much safer and aluminum free way to keep yourself smelling fresh!
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It is the time of year when many people feel the spirit of indulgence coming upon them. If you are wondering how you are going to survive and would like to wake up Jan 2nd feeling great about your choices rather than feeling the need to “start over” then this Holiday Survival Guide is just what the Doctor ordered!
In so many ways the Holiday Season is a wonderful delight but there are also challenges that people may face in regard to staying healthy while still having fun. Here are Dr Cobi's Top Tips to SURVIVE AND THRIVE this Holiday Season:
Dr Cobi’s Top Holiday Season Picks
Stress Busters
Digestive Aids
Ultra flora Balance Probiotics- Metagenics
Hangover Cures
LVDTX- Liver Detox-Douglas Labs
Immune Boosters
Sleep Aids
]]>6 Quick tips to eliminate sugar cravings:
1. Consume protein at breakfast- Consuming protein in the morning sets the stage for the day for blood sugar stabilization. Starting your day with carbohydrates on the other hand can leave you craving more sugar all day.
2. Just a pinch of Cinnamon- This blood sugar stabilizing spice helps to cut cravings dramatically. Add Cinnamon to your smoothie, hot drinks or steel cut oatmeal each day to maintain blood sugar levels.
3. Eliminate ALL forms of processed sugar including artificial sweeteners. Going cold turkey is the most effective way to successfully cut out sugar for good. The cravings will be gone in as little as 3 days!
4. Consume good fats- Sources of high quality good fats lead to a sensation of fullness and satiety. Add 1-2 tbsp. of coconut oil into your daily diet as well as other sources of good fats such as raw nuts and seeds, avocados and cold pressed extra virgin olive oil.
5. Sleep- Inadequate sleep can lead to a hormone disruption between leptin and ghrelin which are produced while you sleep. Leptin tells your body when you are full and ghrelin stimulates appetite. Sleep deprivation causes massive sugar cravings due to inadequate leptin. Aim for 8 good quality hours of sleep per night.
6. Hydrate- Chronic dehydration can feel like hunger to most people. Often when afternoon cravings strike for something sweet, it is actually your body telling you to drink some water. The goal is to consume half your body weight in ounces of water each day.
7. L-Glutamine- If the cravings are fierce, combine ½ tsp. of the amino acid l-glutamine with 2 tbsp. of water and swish in the mouth for 30 seconds and swallow. The cravings will be instantly gone! Repeat as needed.
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All honey contains a natural occurring enzyme which produces hydrogen peroxide which is a known antiseptic with proven antibacterial properties. However, hydrogen peroxide loses most of its healing power when it comes in contact with body fluids or open wounds. In addition, all healing qualities of common honey are lost in contact with heat or direct light.
Studies on the benefits of Manuka honey have shown that it is a special type of mono-floral honey which contains an ingredient with powerful antibacterial, anti-microbial, antiviral, antioxidant, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties. This ingredient in Manuka honey was originally named UMF®or Unique Manuka Factor.
Manuka Honey is produced by bees that collect nectar from the Manuka Bush or Tea Tree (also known as Leptospermum Scoparium) indigenous only to New Zealand.
Bees gather the nectar from the flowers of the Manuka Tree. In the hive, they add an enzyme called glucose oxidase to the nectar in order to preserve the honey. When Manuka Honey comes into contact with body fluids, the glucose oxidase enzyme slowly releases the antibacterial hydrogen peroxide. The levels of hydrogen peroxide released are not high enough to damage tissue but sufficient enough to affect bacteria.
Most Common Uses of Manuka Honey
1. Gastritis
2. Stomach ulcers
3. Tonsillitis
4. Sinusitis
5. Skin ailments such as eczema, hives, rosacea and rashes
6. Building the immune system
7. Facial masks
8. Common flus, coughs and colds
9. Cuts and burns
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Curried Chicken, Potatoes and Peas-Serves 4
From The Ultimate Gluten and Dairy Free Cookbook- coming soon
All mixed up in a coconut curry sauce. This is a one pot wonder for sure!
Ingredients
3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced 3/4 inch thick)
Himalayan sea salt and pepper (to taste)
2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1⁄2 cup onion (chopped)
1 tbsp. fresh ginger (minced)
1 tsp. jalapeno (minced)
1 tbsp. sweet curry powder
1 cup chicken stock
1 red potato (peeled, cut into small chunks)
1 can coconut milk
1⁄2 cup frozen peas
2 tbsp. cilantro (chopped)
Instructions
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common disorder in women of reproductive age that is characterized by the cyclic recurrence of physical, affective, and cognitive (or performance) symptoms.
The symptoms typically occur in the second half of the menstrual cycle, resolve after the period begins and are often absent during the early phase of the menstrual cycle. As many as 85% of menstruating women experience one or more symptoms of PMS. Approximately 5% to 10% of women have symptoms severe enough to be debilitating.
PMS affects women of all cultures and socioeconomic levels but types of symptoms and levels of discomfort vary from woman to woman and may have cultural influences. More than three hundred symptoms have been associated with PMS.
Among the most prominent and consistently described symptoms are depression, anxiety, irritability, craving for sweet or salty foods, headaches, weight gain, fluid retention, breast pain and swelling, abdominal bloating and acne flare-ups on the face and shoulders.
Some of the other commonly associated symptoms include:
1.The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. ACOG News Release. Accessed April 5, 2004 from
http://www.acog.org/from_home/publications/press_releases/nr03-31-00-1.cfm.
2.Halbreich U. The etiology, biology, and evolving pathology of premenstrual syndromes.
Psychoneuroendocrinology 2003; 28(3 Suppl):S55-S99.
Causes of PMS
The exact cause of PMS is not fully understood and may be related to a number of factors. The current theories on the underlying causes focus mostly on levels of sex hormones (e.g., estrogen, progesterone) and neurotransmitters (i.e., brain chemicals that control mood), dietary influences and emotional factors.
Dietary Factors Influencing PMS
Many factors can contribute to or trigger PMS by causing hormonal changes in the body, including:
PMS has been divided into four categories according to specific sets of symptoms.
Top 5 Strategies for PMS
Spaghetti Primavera without the spaghetti? Fantastic!
Ingredients
1 spaghetti squash (halved lengthwise and seeded)
1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1 onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1⁄2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1⁄4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
1⁄2 cup asparagus
1⁄2 cup red bell pepper (diced)
1⁄2 cup goat feta cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Place spaghetti squash cut side down on a baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes or until a knife can easily be inserted. Remove the squash from the oven and set aside to cool.
3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and onion for 2-3 minutes. Add the asparagus and peppers and sauté for another couple of minutes. Add the tomatoes and cook for 1 more minute.
4. Using a large spoon, scoop the stringy pulp from the squash and put in a medium bowl. Toss the spaghetti squash with the vegetables, feta cheese, if using and basil. Season with salt and pepper if desired.
]]>Researchers have now identified several ways that toxin overload can be a cause of obesity. When the buildup of toxins blocks your liver’s detoxification pathways, unwanted weight gain can result. Here is a snap shot of what can happen:
Wondering if you are toxic and need to cleanse your body? Here are some telltale signs:
The following are five steps that you can take to detoxify your body:
Here are Dr Cobi’s Favourite Products for Detox! BioLixV, LVDTX, Fibermend, DIM and Estrovantage
]]>Ingredients
1⁄4 cup lime juice (divided)
3 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil (divided)
1 jalapeno pepper (diced)
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Himalaya sea salt and pepper (to taste)
1 orange (peeled and cut into small pieces)
1 pink grapefruit (peeled and cut into small pieces)
4 green onions (thinly sliced)
10 cherry tomatoes (halved)
1⁄2 fresh orange (zested and juiced)
1⁄2 lime (zested)
1⁄4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
2 tomatillos (diced)
4 cups salad greens
Instructions
After the age of 35, our systems are very vulnerable to any disruption in the intricate balancing networks in our body. For the few women who do manage to lose weight, often gain it back quickly — unless they address the underlying root cause.
The most common systemic imbalances that lead to weight loss resistance in women and men are connected to the extremely delicate symphony of hormones. The key players are the thyroid and adrenal hormones as well as estrogen and progesterone, leptin and ghrelin. Once the body regains balance, the weight comes off easily. One other factor to weight loss resistance is hidden food allergies or sensitivities.
Most common causes of weight loss resistance
So despite all the best efforts sometimes there is just more to the story than we realize. If you have been frustrated by doing all the right “stuff” but simply not getting the desired results then discovering the root cause and restoring balance can help to change your outcome.
Top Tests to Uncover Your Hidden Causes of Weight Loss Resistance