Last week I realized that some of my CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) vegetables had come to the end of their life before I could use them all. It was a sad day when I had to throw out some things that I fully intended to eat and didn’t. No excuses. I just had not made time to prepare all my veggies. Even if I couldn’t eat all of them in a week, I certainly could have thrown together a pot of soup and frozen it.
Physician, heal thyself! I’ve kind of lost touch with my food and my kitchen lately. If I don’t spend enough time preparing the food I eat and keeping my refrigerator and cabinets cleared of anything unusable, I don’t eat as well as I would otherwise.
So, I spent some quality time thoroughly cleaning out the frig and getting back to square one with what was there and could be used this week. The feeling of accomplishment and completion after that kind of task is one I relish. It took less than a half hour and the return on that investment of time was huge!
The concept of Primary Food™ is that career, spirituality, physical activity and relationship(s) are primary to the nourishment of our whole being, and what we put into our mouth is secondary. When I began thinking about the relationship part of Primary Food and my relationship to food itself, it was kind of an a-ha moment for me.
During the cooler months of the year I spend much more time preparing food. It makes me feel warm and cozy to have the stove and oven going and just spend time in the kitchen. The more time we spend with anyone or anything, the closer the relationship. Therefore, the more quality time I spend with my food, the better my relationship is to it.
This quality time has gone begging lately and I feel it. Just grazing on whatever is handy, even if it is healthful, doesn’t satisfy the need for really nourishing myself with food that is lovingly prepared and eaten mindfully.
Of course, one could go totally overboard with this theory. Like everything else, there has to be a balance. Hanging out in the kitchen all day, cooking and eating, would soon lead to an unhealthy relationship to food. The challenge is always balance! But when we find it, it’s so satisfying!
As I study dietary theories I am struck by how amazing Joshua Rosenthal’s idea of Primary Food™ really is. As I visit with clients, this is an area that I focus on with individuals who may be struggling with their relationship to food. I know how much this concept is benefitting me and so I am eager to share it with others.
This week, invest 30 minutes of your precious time in yourself by connecting with your food. See what’s really in your refrigerator, toss unusable items, and create something delicious with what is remaining. If you want to play that game where you tell someone the ingredients you have and they tell you what to do with them, shoot me an email! I’ll play!
Many Healthful Returns, Kay…
Category: News
Cosmetic Dental Treatment
Teeth can discolour with time as the outer layer of enamel wears away allowing the darker inner layer of dentine to show through. Teeth can also appear discoloured due to developmental blemishes. Fortunately, stained or discoloured teeth can usually be treated with tooth whitening procedures. Tooth whitening is a safe procedure when done by a qualified dentist and typically involves a custom made tray being made to hold the bleaching gel in contact with your teeth. Instructions regarding the wearing of the tray will be provided by your dentist who will also review your progress. Results are usually seen within two weeks. Tooth whitening procedures may also be carried out in the chair by dentists. For advice on the best method for you, it is important to talk to a qualified dentist. Tooth Whitening may not be appropriate for all people.
Veneers are another way to create a beautiful smile and are one of the most preferred cosmetic dental treatments. Veneers are made from thin tooth coloured materials which are carefully bonded to the front of your tooth. Veneers can be used to alter the appearance of teeth which are chipped or worn, slightly misaligned/gappy, discoloured or simply not quite the right shape (often used where a tooth is too small). Veneers can be made from a ceramic material like porcelain) which requires an impression and a couple of dental visits, or they can be applied directly to the tooth surface in a single visit using composite resin. Once complete they look very natural. Whilst veneers are not suitable for all teeth, your dentist can advise you on your individual circumstances.
Crowns are another cosmetic dental treatments option. Crowns are a custom made restoration which fits over the prepared existing natural tooth. Crowns can be an effective option for addressing concerns such as broken, chipped, discoloured or weakened teeth. As well as improving the appearance of a tooth, crowns add durability and stability to your bite and assist in strengthening a weak or compromised tooth. Crowns are typically made from porcelain (or an alternative ceramic) or a precious metal. Because they are created uniquely for your mouth, they can be designed to blend with your existing teeth and enhance your overall smile.…
Tips on Preparing for Lap Band Surgery
For people who suffer from obesity, Lap Band Surgery has proven to be an effective method of losing a large quantity of body mass. Before a patient undergoes the surgery, they must make the proper preparations in order to have a successful surgery and successful post surgery weight loss period. The following is a list of tips on preparing for lap band surgery:
Education: Before you have lap band surgery, you should learn all about the procedure. You will find a wealth of information online, including videos. As well, you should consult with your lap band surgeon, your patient coordinator, nutritionist and psychotherapist and people who have had the procedure. You should learn about: how the procedure is performed, what you will expect after the surgery, potential side effects and complications, how to physically and emotionally prepare for the procedure, and what you should be doing during the recovery period.
Medications: You need to learn about what type of drugs you should avoid before and after the surgery, including over-the-counter medications. You should also learn how long you should avoid taking specific drugs. As well, you should make sure you have acquired the necessary medications that are required for the recovery period such as pain medication. There other important medical items you should have such as bandages and dressings, and a thermometer.
Lifestyle Changes: There are certain activities that increase surgery complications. For instance, you should stop smoking and drinking alcohol at least 2 weeks prior to the surgery.
Arrange Support System: It is essential that you have people to support you after the surgery. The surgery only lasts about 45 minutes so you will need to have someone to drive you to the clinic and back home after the surgery.
Clothing: Select the clothing you will wear on the day of the procedure and during the recovery period. The best clothing is loose fitting and comfortable items as you do not want to feel constricted and aggravate any incisions.
Prepare For Your New Diet: The recovery period will involve a change in diet. You should understand what you have to eat and in what texture. Make sure you have acquired the necessary foods that you will be consuming. Get a copy of the surgeon’s diet protocols.
Plan Recovery Period: There will be specific time periods where you will add new foods to your diet and begin an exercise program. It is important to have a schedule so you are able to implement the right activities and food at the right time.
Obesity is a serious health problem in our society with many serious health and financial implications. Lap band weight loss surgery is an effective and sustainable method of losing the excess weight and improving your life. Because it is a medical procedure, it is important to properly prepare to ensure the surgery and weight loss is a success.…
Choosing Skin Care Products With Antioxidants
Taking good care of your skin is a great way to ensure that you are always looking your best as you age. There are a lot of different ways to do this, and it will be in understanding these different ways that you can determine how simple it actually is to keep yourself looking great. One way, is through finding antioxidants skin care products.
Another thing that you will be able to use this article to determine will be the kind of effects that antioxidants have on your body. There are all kinds of products that are being put out there that are loaded up with antioxidants, and you should understand them a little bit better.
This way, you are sure to understand why you might lean more towards purchasing the various hygiene and beauty products that have these antioxidants rather than those that don’t. Through the course of the upcoming paragraphs, you are going to get a good look at some of the most popular items that have these included. In addition, you are going to learn what they can do for you if you use them.
Understanding antioxidants is really not entirely difficult. To begin to understand them, you have to understand what they fight against. One of the worst things that you can have in your body, apart from some debilitating illness would be free radicals. These are cells that have been damaged in a sense, and now they are out to damage more cells in a similar manner.
Antioxidants, in any sense that they are used, combat these free radicals. So if you are using skin care products, you are using them to combat the skin cell free radicals and those that might be in this vicinity. This is similar to ingesting something to contend with the radicals that are free floating around your body.
There are all kinds of different products for your skin that are boasting antioxidant power. A few of the most popular that are out there, though, would be: lotions, facial moisturizers, creams, and other topical solutions that fit into one of the last three mentioned categories even remotely.
To find some of the best antioxidants skin care products out there, you are just going to have to read a few labels when you are out shopping for what you might use all the time. The next time that you are in the store replacing your lotion or your moisturizer, you might take a little harder look at what is actually inside of the formula.…
Positive Treatment of Prostatitis is Significant For Prostatitis Sufferers
That acute prostatitis and chronic prostatitis are found increasingly in young people has its own reason. It is conceivable that sexual function of youth is in a active stage. During this period, frequent congestion of prostate is a logical necessity under sexual stimulus. As a matter of fact,congestion in prostate can induce inflammation.
Characteristics of blood circulation of prostate:Arterial blood is rich, but systemic venous return has to confront with more resistance. If there are factors which can brings about repeated congestion in prostate, systemic venous return can be affected. In this case, local blood can’t flow smoothly and some come to a standstill, which leads to prostatitis eventually. Moreover, prostate secretions are more produced in youth, and it is prostate fluid that offers an excellent hotbed for bacterial growth.
At this age, prostatitis patients can run more risk of other complications, if personal hygiene is unconcerned, body resistant to disease is low or infection in other areas emergs, pathogens can easily enter prostate, and causes acute prostatitis or chronic prostatitis. Once, patients are diagnosed with prostatitis, one of the most important things that they need to know is that positive prostatitis treatment is required to keep a good psychology. Why are some patients who have prostatitis with a wavering condition? who studies traditional Chinese medicine science says that it is primarily because they do not have confidence in treatment.
Three aspects that should be concerned in prostatitis treatment
Get rid of psychological burdenIt is easy for us to understand that uncured prostatitis can give rise to serious psychological burden. It is said that half patients can show different mental symptoms. Those who hold the view that to live is no better than to die and have suicidal tendency account for 1% to 3%. Severe Psychological abnormal is sometimes just the causes of prostatitis, in fact, many doctors think that chronic prostatitis is a somatopsychic illness. Therefore, relieving anxiety, easing psychological burden and shift attention on physical abnormalities are much important for prostatitis recovery.
Accept systematic treatmentAs we all know, chronic prostatitis is a complicate disease which needs to be treated with certain course. Generally speaking, three month is enough. However, some patients repulse the treatment when symptoms relieve or disappear. But in fact, subjective feelings of patients differ from objective examination. Many people may do not know that criterions of prostatitis cure also include prostate fluid test is normal and causes of prostatitis is eliminated.
Keep good habitsGood habits include:Get enough physical regular intercourses.4. Do not be an alcoholic.5. No spicy food.6. Do not ride bike for too long.7. Live in a warm place to prevent from infectious diseases.…
Top 7 Reasons For Frequent Cleanings With Your Dental Plan Coverage
There are many key reasons why attending consistent cleanings is important to your overall oral health and well-being. These appointments are necessary to keep your teeth happy, healthy, and long-lasting! Here are the top 7 reasons to have your teeth cleaned thoroughly and frequently at your dentist.
1. Maintain overall dental health. As you attend regular cleanings, your dentist is able to keep a close eye on any changes in your oral health. Your dentist will help you maintain clean, healthy teeth while closely monitoring your individual mouth’s situation.
2. Flash a brighter smile. Most people want to attend teeth cleanings to brighten their smiles – whether to impress coworkers, family members, or even the opposite sex! A teeth cleaning can help clear up many unattractive tooth discolorations from staining substances such as coffee and tobacco. Even if a sparkling smile is your only reason for scheduling cleanings, consistent cleanings will grant you a myriad of other long-term benefits.
3. Detect arising oral problems early on. When you attend frequent cleanings, your dentist can detect arising oral problems far earlier than if you wait until you are in excruciating pain to darken the door of a dentist’s office! Early detection is key in resolving any major health issue – the earlier any severe oral problem such as a cavity or abscess is addressed, the better.
4. Prevent bad breath. Good oral hygiene is the #1 way to prevent bad breath! Tartar and plaque buildup on your teeth increases your chances of developing bad breath. Dental hygienists often achieve a far more thorough cleaning than you can accomplish by brushing alone – cleanings eliminate plaque for your best breath possible!
5. Use your insurance or dental plan. Many an insurance or dental plan will pay for a certain number of cleanings per year. Take full advantage of these appointments to get the most for the money that you pay to an insurance company — if you pay for an insurance, then you might as well use it! A discount dental plan may even discount an unlimited number of cleanings per year.
6. Reduce your chances of developing gingivitis and severe gum disease. When you attend your regular cleanings, your dentist is able to check your mouth for the beginnings of gingivitis and more severe gum disease. Early detection is crucial in resolving these diseases as painlessly as possible!
7. Prevent oral cancer. The more often your dentist sees inside your mouth, the more ability he or she has to check for oral cancer — early diagnosis of oral cancer may save your life.
You can be motivated to attend regular cleanings for more reasons than just whiter teeth! Though cleanings may feel like a chore, they are truly an investment in your long-term oral health. Considering the many benefits associated with frequent cleanings, be sure to attend two or more per year as recommended by your dentist.…
Artificial Sweeteners Fool You And Your Body
Why Artificial Sweeteners Are Not Good For You
5 good reasons to avoid them if you want to improve your health
1 They are very far from what nature intended you to eat and drink
Artificial sweeteners are never added to healthy, nutrient dense foods. Artificial sweeteners are added to foods that manufacturers produce, with extended shelf-life in mind. They have been denuded of any nutrients, because good food goes off, and they will not only contain artificial sweeteners, they will also contain other additives, such as flavourings, colorants and preservatives.
If the aim of producing them is to ensure they will not cause any loss of money for the manufacturer, should they be left on a shelf for an extended period of time, as well as being able to be stored at any temperature, then they will not have any nutrient value. They will be as far from nature as its possible for a food to be, and will therefore not be providing any nutrients to you.
2 You are replacing the good things you should be eating and drinking with artificial ‘foods’
This simply means that over time, you will be consuming less of the foods that nature has provided to keep you healthy, and more of the foods that lead to nutrient deficiencies. There is less and less ‘space’ in your diet for good, nutrient dense foods when you consume foods that have been artificially sweetened and processed.
3 You are not re-training your sweet tooth to expect a different level of sweetness.
You are simply swapping one form of sweetness for another. You aren’t teaching yourself to value and consume foods that are nutrient dense, and contain natural, good sweeteners. You are fooling yourself, and ensuring that you will eventually suffer from a number of nutrient deficiencies, leading to ill health and disease. Furthermore, when children use these products, they are also fooled into sustaining their sweet tooth!
4 You actually end up eating more than you would normally
Research has indicated that when people eat foods and liquids with artificial sweeteners in them, they eat more, because they feel they are ‘being good’ by not eating ‘real’ sugar. This of course leads to a situation where people don’t lose weight, and continue eating nutrient deficient processed products.
5 Artificial sweeteners may be very damaging to your brain
There may very well be serious side effects to using artificial sweeteners, which may leave you with more to concern yourself with, than simply a sweet tooth. In fact, there is research to indicate that they may be very damaging to your brain.
So what should you do?
When you swap good, natural food and water for processed, chemically laden products, you cannot sustain good health or weight loss. Unfortunately many people have been deceived into believing that these products will help them to lose weight, but they are in fact simply avoiding reality. How many slim people do you see using artificial foods and drinks? Very few, if any! They don’t work long term and may eventually lead to disease.…