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3225 Lorch Avenue, Eau Claire, WI 54701 715-552-4570 • www.goldsgym-ec.com
Contents
Why we do what we do.
Our goal is to connect Chippewa Valley consumers with alternative health and wellness resources and products that will help them lead healthier, happier lives. The idea of keeping it local and helping people discover how many incredible services and offerings our little backyard may offer has been a major driving force in everything we do in the magazine.
4 balanced living
Why read us?
Second Opinion’s mission is to help educate and empower folks in the region to live healthier and more fulfilling lives. We are THE region’s health and wellness resource and have helped to shape and grow the wellness movement in the area—that includes helping to educate people about the value of massage therapy, chiropractics, organic foods, buying local and much more! We’d love to help support your mission to thrive and grow in the area and we’d love YOUR support to help us continue being the awesome resource that we are. Together we can help create a healthier, more aware community.
CONTACT US:
Arwen Rasmussen 715.831.0325 editor@asecondopinionmag.com www.asecondopinionmag.com
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Friends Don’t Let Friends Fall Off Their Diets Love Your Lymph, Improve Your Immune System • • • • • • • •
Move Right for Brain Health Adjusting Children Child's Cough Best Kept Secret Shovel Safely Understanding Cholesterol Cold Laser Light Therapy Chiropractic Works!
20 Aspects of Acupuncture by Casey Castona
21 To Love and To Serve 22 RELAX • • • •
Office:
All articles are the sole property of the writers. Opinions expressed in Second Opinion are those of the writers or advertisers themselves, not the publication or its editors. Second Opinion is not liable for use of any artwork provided by advertisers. Please direct concerns to the advertisers. ©2006-2014
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Urbal Tea in Milwaukee Poofy Organics Core Foods Honey Salon in Eau Claire THRIVE Experience Be Lovely with Molly Marie
14 Chiropractic Cares
Graphic Design: Kathy Nelson 3315 Nimitz Street Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54701
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Five Steps to Sweet Holiday Slumber Relaxation or Therapeutic Massage? Why Not Both? Take Care of Your Body, Mind, and Spirit This Christmas Consider a Therapeutic Massage for You This Holiday Season
24 Healthy Pets • • • •
Healthy Tips for Your Pets This “Howl”-iday De-Stress Your Pet This Holiday Winter Care for Dogs Don't Feed These to Fido
27 Healing Paths
Colon Hydrotherapy Education is Power Got Heartburn?
30 Good Eats
Gummy Bears Vitamins Pairing it up!
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balanced living Clean Like Grandma Did
Commercial oven cleaners are among the most dangerous household cleaning products. Prevention comes first: Line the bottom of the oven with aluminum foil, under but not touching the heating element (if the oven is electric). When spills occur, simply replace the foil. 1. Let the oven cool, sprinkle salt on the spill, then wipe away the spill and wash the area clean. 2. To clean a badly crusted oven, sprinkle it with baking soda and spray with water. Allow it to sit several hours or overnight. Scrape off the stains and spills then thoroughly wash the oven with hot water. Natural Oven Cleaner Recipe Need: Paintbrush (I used a pastry brush), 2 medium glass bowls, scrubber sponge, spoon. • 1 T soap • 1½ cup aluminum-free baking soda • 2–4 drops lavender essential oil (you can use any scent you like, or none at all) • ¼ cup organic white vinegar (you can
Tips and ideas for a healthy and balanced life
also use apple cider vinegar) • Water as needed to make a “paintable” but thick paste
Better Life Products Better Life does indeed have the perfect natural one-two punch for cleaning an oven. It’s our Even the Kitchen Sink to scrub, followed by our what-EVER! www.betterlife.com
Norwex Natural Oven and Grill Cleaner Heat your oven to the lowest setting for a couple minutes, turn it off, and spray with the cleaner. Wait for the enzymes to do their thing for about ten minutes then scrub with a wet spirinett (silver scrubby thing) and finish by wiping the oven out with our enviro cloth (small blue sample cloth).
Detox Bath
So how else can we assist our body to detoxify through our skin? We can aid the body in eliminating toxins externally by many methods. Activities that boost circulation and cause you to perspire aid this process and include things like exercise, massage, detoxifying baths, or saunas. For centuries, perhaps millennia, people have sought to detoxify the body by soaking in mineral waters. A simple at-home recipe you can try for your bath uses a combination of salts recognized for their cleansing and mineralizing properties. According to the Epsom Salt Council, “When magnesium sulfate is absorbed through the skin, such as in a bath, it draws toxins from the body, sedates the nervous system, reduces swelling, relaxes muscles, is a natural emollient, exfoliator, and much more.” Caution: Do not take hot baths and salt baths (including Second Opinion | 4
Epsom salt baths) if you have heart trouble, high blood pressure, or are diabetic. This combination added to a hot bath for no more than a twenty-minute soak will soothe and relax sore muscles and is best just before bed. Recipe: 1 cup sea salt, 1 cup baking soda, 1 cup Epsom salts.
Thanks Guys!! We have to give a big shout out to Matt and Betsy Jabs who sent us a few copies of their new DIY Natual Book. DIY Natural is about rediscovering the traditional value of doing things yourself, doing them naturally, and enjoying the benefits. Welcome to the movement! Get your copy today!! diynatural.com
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Aluminum in Deodrants What it is: One of the most common elements in our environment and the world’s most common metal, it is used for many things, including our personal care products. What it does: It restricts the sweat from releasing through your underarms, this letting you remain odor-free. However, in that process, the antiperspirant is absorbed by your body, aluminum included. The toxins that should be releasing themselves from your body go back in and are absorbed. Problems with this include: a suspected link between Alzheimer’s disease and toxicity of aluminum” (The World Health Organization, 1993), and it may be linked to problems with the sweat glands and lymph glands in and around underarms. What can you do about it? The biggest thing you can do to control the scent of what comes out of your body is to alter what you put into it. Foods that
cause foul odors include: large quantities of red meat (causes stagnation) and highly processed dietary foods lacking in fiber but high in white flour, sugar, and hydrogenated oils. Foods that help: plant-based foods like whole grains, leafy greens, fresh fruits, sprouts, raw nuts and seeds, healthy oils, parsley, cilantro, celery, mint, and the aromatic herbs sage, rosemary, thyme, and oregano. The chlorophyll and other phytonutrients cleanse from the inside out. Eliminate or reduce problem-causing foods and increase natural foods and you might still sweat when you’re hot and overworked — but you might not smell so bad when you do.
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Conventional Cotton Stats — Scary! It can take almost a 1/3 pound of synthetic fertilizers to grow one pound of raw cotton in the US, and it takes just under one pound of raw cotton to make one t-shirt. Fifty-five million pounds of pesticides were sprayed on the 12.8 million acres of conventional cotton grown in the U.S. in 2003 (4.3 pounds/acre), ranking cotton third behind corn and soybeans in total amount of pesticides sprayed. (USDA) Over 2.03 billion pounds of synthetic fertilizers were applied to conventional cotton in 2000 (142 pounds/acre), making cotton the fourth most heavily fertilized crop behind corn, winter wheat, and soybeans. (USDA) Second Opinion | 5
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myself, “Yeah right! I just don’t think that there are any products out there that are safe enough, up to my standards, or are not Urbal Tea Is a Local Milwaukee Herbal filled with things that I don’t want in my house.” Excitedly, and upon further investigation, I found myself intrigued by the pure, Tea Company. clean, organic ingredients. Every blend of Urbal That day was the very first day of my fantastic journey. By Tea is formulated to noon, I had become an Independent Poofy Organics Diva, which assist in the healing, in turn made me their very first recruited Diva. A Diva hosts strengthening, and home and Internet-based parties while educating people about preserving of the entire the benefits of toxic-free living. I had not realized until I walked human body. Herbal tea away from the table that fateful day that I had just met the works with the body in an founder, owner, and CEO of Poofy Organics, Kristina Gagliardiall-natural way to promote Wilson. balance and good health. Poofy Organics was founded in 2006 after one of Kristina’s Almost any herbal leaf, family members was diagnosed with cancer. During this flower, and root can be made into tea. What makes us different frightening battle, Kristina discovered there simply were no is that we only blend herbs; therefore none of our herbal blends truly safe products on the market for her family to use. She contain actual tea or caffeine. Camellia sinensis, known as the began making her own pure, clean, organic products. As tea plant, is just one plant. Our herbal infusions focus on all the local interests grew in her creations, she decided to sell her other species of plants Mother Nature provides. We incorporate homemade products on eBay. It quickly became obvious that many local herbs like nettle, dandelion, burdock, and clover. her calling was much bigger. She soon opened her own store, Many of these herbs can be found right in your own backyards. Poofy Organics, sweetly named after her daughter’s childhood All of the herbal teas contain numerous vitamins, minerals, and nickname. antioxidants, and each blend targets a different ailment or need. Poofy products are made in small batches by hand at our Meant to be enjoyed every day, Urbal Teas provide a bounty of USDA certified organic facility in Rutherford, New Jersey. All nourishing herbs to benefit the entire body and soul. Our passion products are gluten free, cruelty free, contain zero toxins, and is to help people kick the caffeine and processed-sugar beverages. have no hidden ingredients. We offer a wide variety of luxurious Drinking tea is a simple and easy way to refresh and heal. Please bath and body products for the entire family. There are fun kids’ visit our website urbalhealth.com for more details on all the scents available within our Young, Wild, & Free line. Other wonderful blends we offer. product lines include I AM goddess for Women, Ruggedly Urbal Tea is liquid for life. Natural for Men, Baby Poof for Infants & Toddlers, Poofy Polish for everyone, delightfully aromatic household cleaners forClaire your home, USDAMarch certified organic essential oils for P. 33 Eau Seniorand Review 2013 Poofy Organics your peace of mind. About ten years ago, I decided to go green with my household For information on parties, great shipping rates, and answers to and personal care products. My only exceptions have been hair your questions contact me today -715.552.1474 dye, stain, and bleach. If you know me, you would likely agree Check us out at EWG.org. one never knows from one day to the next what color my hair may be. That being said, my husband used to make comments during those ten plus years of chemical-free living about how he Most Insurance missed the way I used to smell during our dating years. I used Accepted Including toxic perfumes and chemical-laden body sprays from famous Medicare & Medicaid mall stores, which in turn equated to an allergy pill a day for over fourteen years. Frankly, I just hadn’t found anything that was pure enough for me to put back on my body, so I stayed away from scents altogether. Paul Schlosser, M.D. Integrative Medicine ◆ Medical Acupuncture In October 2012, I attended the Holistic Mom’s conference in Integrative Medicine 200 Main Street, Eau Claire, WI Chicago. While wearing my nametag and browsing the booths early in the morning, I heard a woman exclaim, “Wow, your 715-855-8280 Medical Acupuncture www.tworiversclinic.com ◆ 2riversclinic@att.com name is Aphrodite? You should sell our products!” I thought to
Paul Schlosser, M.D.
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Good for You and Earth: CORE Meals Oakland, California—based CORE Foods began after Corey, the founder, lived with twelve different tribes around the world. He hand-ground corn in Mexico, foraged for sago grubs in Papua New Guinea, rice farmed in Indonesia, herded goats in Mongolia, beat taro in Brazil, and sling-shot dik-dik in South Africa. All these experiences drew him to conclude that for best nutrition, one should eat mostly whole fresh fruits and vegetables. Through a loan from Whole Foods Market, CORE Foods was born, with the goal of making it possible for anyone to eat healthy anywhere, anytime. Corey wanted the company to be not-for-profit due to the universal principle he had observed in every tribe he’d lived with: treat others they way you want to be treated. By Earth Day 2010, CORE had developed two meals: Defender Meals (oats, nuts, seeds, fruits—for daily healthy living) and Warrior Meals (whey protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates—for energy, endurance, and strength). Each meal keeps you fueled for four hours. All meals are of high-quality nutrient-dense whole certified organic ingredients—no syrups, salts, oils, flours, or additives. Meals have no preservatives, so a meal can last one week on the go, one month if chilled, and six months if frozen. Each pack of ten meals costs about $40. CORE Meals are available in 300 stores nationwide or at www.corefoods.com. CORE uses local sources as much as possible, and the meals are gluten free and kosher. In efforts to
Ammonia Free Color
Organic Haircare
2704 London Rd
Eau Claire, WI 54703
715-864-9571
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protect the environment, CORE uses American-made recycled and low-waste materials and avoids excess waste and energy use. CORE offsets its remaining emissions via CarbonFund. org. The company supports community involvement in its hometown of Oakland by donating thousands of CORE Meals to the homeless and by participating in other community events.
Honey Salon: Could This Be What You’ve Wanted? By Barbara Tzetzo Gosch, freelance writer After fourteen years as a professional hair stylist, Becca Barr created her vision of an eco-friendly and wellness-centered beauty salon in Eau Claire. Barr has combined her healthy lifestyle and entrepreneurial skills to provide clients with a “Special Place” where they can feel pampered and safer from chemicals. “While growing up, I was taught to pay attention not only to the food I would eat but what I’d put on my body,” she revealed. The awareness to take charge of your health needs along with her hair stylist listening skills contributed to Barr’s discovery that a new kind of hair salon service was needed. She was reminded of clients, as well as herself, who had experienced allergic and other reactions from using hair products that have an increase in chemicals. “Honey,” was selected to be part of her salon’s name because—it’s a natural alternative. In addition, Barr, who is a beekeeper, decided upon the “Queen Bee” as its logo, expressing her dedication to the environment.
At Honey Salon:
1. She uses gentle, ammonia-free color—plus, sulfate-, gluten-, and paraben-free products. 2. Products used are organic. See “Intelligent Nutrients” website at www.intelligentnutrients.ca. 3. You’re the only customer in the salon during your appointment, and you get personal service for that unique good cut, style, and blow dry. 4. Online scheduling encourages clients to email or text photos to obtain their desired style. 5. The salon is family friendly and welcomes children. 6. The salon is accessible to physically challenged clients. 7. Relaxing massages and soothing herbal tea available. As bees are attracted to honey, you may find yourself wanting an especially sweet experience that Honey Salon provides! 2704 London Rd. Eau Claire (715-864-9571). www.honeysaloneauclaire.com Second Opinion | 7
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Are You Thriving? The holidays are just around the corner! Are you looking for that perfect gift for some special people in your life? How about the Gift of Health? Do you or someone you know suffer from: low energy, low mood, joint discomforts, headaches, managing your weight, or trouble sleeping? Then the THRIVE Experience may be just what you are looking for! As hard as we try to create a healthy food environment for our families, it can be extremely difficult due to farmlands having nutritionally depleted soil and using over-processed ingredients. These circumstances make it almost impossible to fill all of the nutritional gaps in our bodies. The THRIVE Experience is a new direction in simplicity. Take two capsules before your feet hit the floor in the morning, take our THRIVE lifestyle shake mix, slap on your DFT foam, and you are done for the day! This simple three-step system provides our bodies with
over 100 synergistic vitamins, minerals, probiotics, nutrients, digestive enzymes, amino acids and antioxidants that fill those nutritional gaps in our bodies to allow us to run at an ultra premium level. Le-Vel is redefining the term FREE, with their innovative direct sales company. Anyone can join the LeVel team for free, whether it’s as a customer or a promoter. They are a Cloud-based company which allows them to invest in the highest grade ingredients available, as well as an industry leading compensation plan. If you would like to know more about the THRIVE Experience, please visit www.UltraPremiumLifestyle.com or give Tiffanie (Independent Brand Promoter for Le-Vel) a call at 715-495-8432. To read some amazing personal experiences, check out the Le-Vel Facebook fan page. For more information, you can also listen to this prerecorded informational call. 1-530-881-1499 Pin 137907#"
UW-Eau Claire Winter 2015 Wellness Classes
Session One: Jan. 5-Jan. 22 (3 weeks) No class on Jan. 19th (MLK) Classes Include: Monday: Just Pump with Deb Begotka, 5:10-6:10pm, McPhee 111
Tuesday/Thursday: Pilates with Penny Crochiere 6:30-7:15am, McPhee 105 Tuesday/ Wednesday/ Thursday: PowerPlus with Deb Begotka and Cathie Woita, 11:15-Noon, McPhee 111
Aphrodite Blue
Executive Diva #813246 715.552.1474 peacelovemusic@sprynet.com
Visit www.uwec.edu/recreation for more information or call 715-836-3377.
Check out our healthy foods display!!
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How to Be Lovely What does it mean to “love yourself to be lovely”?
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hat’s the tagline at Molly Marie Photography, a local studio founded by Molly Keyser in 2007. Molly’s studio specializes in women’s portraits—boudoir, glamour, and maternity. Unlike some other photographers, Molly doesn’t rely on Photoshop to give her clients photos they can be proud of. Instead, Molly’s mission is to empower women with the realization of their beauty through portrait sessions for which they do not need to lose 10 pounds or hide their “imperfections” to be attractive. Being lovely comes from a place much deeper than the external appearances; it stems directly from a woman’s core of confidence. Developing this mission has been many years in the making. Several years ago, Molly struggled with self-image and began a weight loss journey. She now wants to share her personal discoveries with women who harbor similar feelings of inadequacy. “I wasn’t able to have success with my weight loss journey until I loved myself with the weight on. I wasn’t able to create more time for myself until I truly loved myself enough to create time for me.” Being lovely comes from a place of selfassuredness, of being at peace with who you are right now. Stephanie, of north-central Wisconsin, shared her experience of learning to embrace her beauty after a glamour portrait session at Molly Marie Photography. “I was nine months pregnant with my fourth child when I scheduled my photo shoot and was honestly looking forward to my hair and makeup being done, and having a few photos taken of myself. Little did I know all the benefits that came from it. I am your average stay-at-home mom of four, and I will admit I lost myself in the shuffle of a hectic household. I felt I had let myself down in a way . . . after doing this, I realized that I am still the woman/wife I was before becoming a stay-athome mom. I was in there, and I was smokin’ hot (who knew under those sweatpants?). I carry myself differently, and I take a few extra minutes to myself in a day, dress better, and even put a little makeup on when I stay at home. I just feel so much
more confident! Don’t get me wrong . . . I still have sweatpants days, but all I do is look at my photos, smile, and things look a little brighter.” Stephanie learned to love herself to be lovely. “This tagline to me is so much more than just my business tagline,” Molly shares. “It’s deeper than that to me. What this means is that no matter what you’re struggling with, you have to find a way to love yourself here and now in order to be ‘lovely.’” Take a few extra minutes for yourself today. Remember, or discover, that you are beautiful, attractive, valued, strong, and lovely now. Relish the moment and carry it with you.
Earth Mother Midwife Midwife means “with woman. ” She is a caretaker of women and their babies and the guardian of normal birth. Midwives have attended women at birth from the beginning of time. They were the sisters, grandmothers, wise women; those that truly knew how to be “with women. ” SERVICES PROVIDED
Erin Kaspar-Frett, MSM, LM, CPM
Combining Wisdom of the Ages with Modern Training
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• Well Woman Care • Birth Services • Prenatal Care • Postpartum Services • Newborn Care
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Open daily 8:00 am - 9:00 pm 1117 South Farwell Street • Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54701 715.552.3366 • www.justlocalfood.com Second Opinion | 10
Healthy Family
Friends Don’t Let Friends Fall Off Their Diets During the Holidays “C’mon. One bite’s not going to hurt you. It’s the holidays. Live a little.” There’s one in every crowd: holiday diet saboteurs. Whether it’s among co-workers, family, or friends, they’re out there. And although their intentions might seem harmless enough, they can derail months of concerted effort in losing weight and improving one’s health. Diane Dressel, a registered dietitian and coordinator of Weight Management Services at Mayo Clinic Health System, offers advice on how people can stay on track with their weight loss goals amid saboteurs during the holiday feasting season. “Successful weight loss is about successful behavior modification,” Dressel says. “And because we’re social people, when we change our own behavior, it affects others in some shape or form. So it’s not surprising that people do encounter some ‘push back’ from others when trying to lose weight.” When caught in a situation where someone is applying food pressure, Dressel advises having a couple stock responses, such as: • “No thanks. I’m already really full.” • “It looks great. Maybe you could wrap some up for me to take home for later?” If people know someone who’s trying to lose weight,
Dressel offers the following advice on how to become a food friend instead of a foe: • Offer to take a walk instead of going out to eat for lunch • Become a “get healthy” buddy by offering encouragement instead of peer pressure • When bringing treats to the office or hosting a party, offer low-calorie alternatives • Ask what you can do to be supportive “A lot of successful weight loss programs offer education groups because we can learn from each other, and that mutual support can go a long way,” Dressel says. For information about Mayo Clinic Health System weight management programs and education groups, or to sign up for a free orientation in Chippewa Falls, Eau Claire, Menomonie or Rice Lake, call 715-838-6731.Diane Dressel, R.D., Weight Management Services, Mayo Clinic Health System
What moves you to lose?
Weight Management Services A healthy weight can help control high blood pressure, manage cholesterol and diabetes, as well as reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease. Register to attend one of our free weekly orientations to learn more about the variety of weight loss programs available. Call 715-838-6731. mayoclinichealthsystem.org
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Healthy Family
Love Your Lymph, Improve Your Immune System By Joyce Sobotta
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ne very important way to improve your immune system is to learn how to love your lymph and keep it free and flowing. A blocked lymphatic system, often overlooked by the medical community, may be the cause of aches and pain, gastrointestinal issues, swelling, cellulite, weight gain, arthritis, fibromyalgia, depression, skin breakouts, and lymphedema. The lymphatic system is a complex network of fluid-filled nodes, vessels, ducts, and glands, including the spleen, thymus, and tonsils. They carry the cellular waste, toxins from our environment, to the bloodstream. Because lymph fluid moves slowly without its own pump, inactivity can seriously restrict its flow. Muscle contraction as in the diaphragm with deep breathing and manual manipulation as in a gentle massage are the primary means to circulate our lymph and direct it to drain from the body. Seven years ago I didn’t know about the lymph. Today, I continue to learn as I work with holistic doctors and professionals all over the country and share what they have found in research studies. Here are four proactive steps we can take to aid our immune system: 1. Eat well! We can reduce our body’s toxic burden by avoiding processed food, preservatives, simple sugars, and carbohydrates. Investigate any food sensitivities that may affect digestion and
Joyce Sobotta Certified Aromatherapist & Reflexologist
715-878-4474 or 715-828-0117 Essential Oil Classes, Presentations, E. 3151 Cedar Rd. Eleva, WI 54738 Personal Blends Info@AromatherapyNaturesWay.com www.AromatherapyNaturesWay.com www.HealthyGirlsBreastOil.com
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be a cause of stressors in your body. Learn what foods will support your cellular function, digestion, and elimination. Drink plenty of purified/filtered water to help carry oxygen and nutrients throughout the body and eliminate toxins and wastes. 2. Limit daily exposure to environmental toxins. Several studies indicate “95 % of all cancer is due to diet and accumulation of toxins.” Learn about harmful ingredients in personal care and household cleaning products, and read labels before purchasing. Zenoestrogens are foreign estrogens— synthetic chemicals that mimic natural estrogens and can be linked to many health problems. We come in contact with hormone disrupting chemicals through pasteurized dairy, soy products, food additives, plastics, Teflon, and phthalates in personal care products. Cell phones improperly carried cause EMF overdose, which has been labeled the deadliest toxin on the planet. 3. Nurture and protect. Clinical studies show that essential oils with high amounts of D-limonene stop and regress abnormal cells. A blend of quality essential oils works synergistically to help balance emotions and raise vibrations. At the same time it will address physical conditions such as inflammation, pain, fibrocystic lumps, and PMS breast symptoms.
Fibrocystic breast tissue is not a disease. Statistics say that 90 percent of breast lumps are benign. Giving our breasts a loving lymphatic massage every day not only moves the lymph, but it is healing in every way. It assists the lymph in transporting toxins, inflammation, virus, bacteria, and other impurities to the lymph nodes and thoracic for processing. Use a light touch, moving the skin instead of massaging the muscles. This is a beautiful fun way to “get to know our girls and take care of them.” 4. Learn techniques that calm anxiety and heal. A depressing, fear-based thought pattern can remain with a family history of cancer. These thoughts lower our immunity, increase the likelihood of inflammation, or cell abnormalities throughout our body, and may even block treatment. The heart, lungs, breasts, throat, and shoulder areas are in the fourth emotional center. The health of this area of the body is affected by our ability to express our emotions fully and bring balance to giving and receiving. We can learn to give ourselves permission to forgive all the things we think we did wrong. Be honest about your feelings and speak out what you feel. Apply techniques such as meditation and emotional freedom technique to bring confidence and a balanced state of love, gratitude, and appreciation. Joyce Sobotta has a bachelors of science in education and certifications in holistic aromatherapy and reflexology. She is the founder/ owner of Healthy Girls Breast Oil, a home-based, international business. She is available for consultations and presentations on therapeutic essential oils and natural self breast care. She can be reached at 715-878-4474 or visit www. aromatherapynaturesway.com.
Reduce Stress this Holiday Season
Elements for Healthcare Barbara Wheeler, DiplAc, CAc, LMT 715.832.2005 ◆ Eau Claire www.elementsforhealthcare.com Gift Certificates Available
• Acupuncture • Therapeutic Massage • Stress & Pain Management Education
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ir Ch opract i c C a r s e Second Opinion | 14
A chiropractic adjustment, often referred to as spinal manipulation, is a common therapeutic treatment for neuromusculoskeletal (nervemuscle-joint) pain and dysfunction. The adjustment is also utilized on a proactive basis for optimal wellness and improved performance. During an adjustment, a doctor of chiropractic applies specific forces in specific directions to the vertebrae (spinal bones) that are misaligned, have abnormal movement patterns and/or fail to function normally (called a vertebral subluxation complex). The objective of the adjustment is to reduce subluxation thereby improving function, alleviating pain, and supporting the body’s natural ability to heal itself. — Dr. Melissa Stangl, Gonstead, Stangl and Arkowski Chiropractic
Move Right for Brain Health
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rom our earliest days, we have had opportunity to observe our brain as the main controller of our expression, movement, and essential life processes. Our conscious impulse to move a finger, touch our toes, hug our child; or our unconscious regulation of our heart rate, breathing, healing, or digestion. Our brain function is the main organ responsible for control and coordination of the operation of both intentional and automatic body systems. Successful performance of our brain depends upon the ability for constant monitoring. Both incoming and outgoing nerve signals, to and from our brain and body, provide opportunity for instantaneous adjustments necessary for our success and survival. Our brain cell signals travel via our spinal cord and nerves that exit our spine. Like the roots of a tree, the nerves branch throughout our entire body and are constantly monitoring for our health. Brain-body communication requires a process called “nerve firing.” When we consider how our nerves work, “firing” is a good thing! The cells in our brain are maintained in size and quantity by the very process of nerve firing. Nerve cells must be called upon to fire because the size and landscape of our entire brain depends upon it. Research has revealed that as our brain cells go through the process of nerve firing, they are prompted to build essential “insulation” around their own structure. This insulation is similar in function to the insulation on our household wiring. The efficiency, and speed, of messages traveling from our brain to our body rely upon good insulation for both protection and function. Nerve firing also initiates a process, which promotes new nerve growth; the cells in the brain actually multiply in number. Nerve cells, which do not fire, are not maintained and diminish in quantity and quality. The very act of movement in our body produces nerve firing, which travels from our body to our brain. Because of the necessity of nerve firing, movement patterns play an essential role in maintaining the size and quantity of
Chiropractic Cares
nerve cells and are essential to the physical landscape, and performance, of our brain. Recent research has revealed that changes in movement patterns, or gait, can begin to occur ten years prior to the onset of negative changes in the brain, including Alzheimer’s disease. The feedback to our brain from our movements is essential for the maintenance of our brain structure. When our joints do not move properly, they do not have the same ability to signal back to the brain and produce the proper firing. The quality of both the outcome and income of signals traveling from our brain through our spinal cord is affected by the movement of the bones and joints in our body. Lack of movement
Why Is My Chiropractor Adjusting Children?
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here are few days that go by in my clinic without a patient saying, “Wow, you see a lot of kids here.” This is usually more a question than a statement. I can hear their thoughts as they see parents hand their infants to me and observe siblings fight over who goes first for their adjustment. “Kids that young have back pain?” “She doesn’t crack that baby, does she?” As a pediatric chiropractor, I see children of all ages every day. Children need adjustments for obvious reasons: they fall (a lot) and are usually much more active than adults. They are also growing rapidly. If bones of the spine are out of alignment during important years of developmental and neurological growth, it can have a negative impact long term. Besides the obvious reasons, both research and parent experiences support chiropractic care for children for symptoms such as colic, reflux/GERD, constipation, ear infections, asthma, allergies, growing pains, headaches, stomach pains, decreased immune systems, ADHD, sleeping disturbances, scoliosis prevention, and even more. You may need to reread that list of symptoms for it to fully sink in. People are taking their children to a chiropractor for drug-free relief for all of that!
interrupts the maintenance of our very brain cells. Simply put, our memory and cognition are dependent upon proper movement. Having movement patterns checked could reveal that subtle skips or compensations, an old ankle sprain, or bum knee, or that back pain that always seem to hang around could be the result of a faulty movement pattern, which can be corrected with the chiropractic adjustment. Chiropractic adjustments in combination with neurological movement pattern analysis can restore proper nerve firing and help keep our brain functioning well for life. — Dr. Judy Soborowicz, Active Health Chiropractic
Typically this is where that patient from earlier says, “I wish I would have known about this when MY children were young.” Pediatric adjustments are significantly different than adult adjustments. For a newborn, an adjustment is simply light pressure, no more than you would apply to your eye. A sleeping baby will rarely wake and often fully relaxes into my hands. There’s no cracking or twisting at any point. Pediatric adjustments are gentle, safe, and rarely ever hurt. A video of children getting adjusted is available on our website www. bluehillschiropractic.com. To find a pediatric chiropractor in your area visit icpa4kids.org/Find-a-Chiropractor/. — By Dr. Lauryn Brunclik , Blue Hills Chiropractic, Cumberland, WI
• Pediatrics • Prenatal • Neck & Back Pain • Wellness Care
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Chiropractic Cares
How Can A Chiropractic Adjustment Help My Child’s Cough? The bones of the skull, spine, and pelvis provide a bony armor for the delicate nervous system that lies within. A chiropractic adjustment is designed to correct subluxation—or misalignment—of these vertebrae, in order to relieve any pressure on the nerves or spinal cord. There are numerous techniques used by chiropractors to correct these subluxations, but all are intended to remove nerve interference and allow the body to make the necessary changes to heal itself. The nervous system is quite complex, but there are certain areas of the spine that are neurologically more likely involved with symptoms of cough. These include Cervical 2-5 (mid-neck) because cervical spinal nerves 3, 4, and 5 control the diaphragm; Thoracic 2-4 (upper back) because thoracic spinal nerves 2, 3, and 4 control the lungs; cranial (skull) bones sphenoid (Trigeminal nerve), temporal/occipital (Glossopharyngeal and Vagus nerves) because of the nerve path; as well as the spinal motor nerves that control the larynx, intercostal muscles, muscles of the abdomen, and muscles of the pelvis. However, chiropractors are trained to detect and correct any areas of dis-ease within the spine, regardless of the type of symptoms presenting. Unfortunately the research available on the effectiveness of chiropractic adjustments for pediatric cough is slim, though clinically chiropractors are frequently and effectively involved in treating children with common disorders, including cough. Effectiveness may include increase rate of healing from cough, decrease in severity of cough, decrease in frequency of cough onset or episodes, and decrease necessity for use of medications for cough, all as a result of receiving chiropractic adjustments. Though chiropractors aren’t in a position to prescribe medications, which are often unnecessary for a cough, they can often provide a vast amount of knowledge about non-pharmaceutical treatment options.
The Best Kept Secret in Chiropractic I was traveling on Hwy. 94 south of Eau Claire this past weekend and came up to a huge traffic jam that stretched for miles. We waited in frustration as we inched along the highway. The delay added about an hour to our already long trip. I was thinking that there must be a bad accident way up the road. As we approached the source of the bottleneck, it was painfully obvious that it was simply traffic being routed to a one-lane access! I thought to myself, “all this backup and waste of time due to a simple lane closure.” You may have had a similar thing happen to you in the past. I thought if someone was able to open up traffic at the blockage point, it could really free up movement. This same type of backup happens in the body when you get a misalignment of the upper two bones in the neck. We call this area the upper cervical spine. It is located at the junction between the head and the neck. It is also where a majority of the nerve “traffic” flows through. This backup in the nervous system can cause a whole range of symptoms from neck and back pain to headaches, digestive problems, numbness in the hands and feet to overall bad
Dr. Emily Smith
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posture. A chiropractor trained in upper cervical chiropractic is able to identify and gently correct such misalignments. If you or someone you know does not like to get their necks “cracked,” or has a chronic condition, then upper cervical care may be what is needed. There is hope for people who have tried other therapies and have not gotten the results they desire. If this is something you would like to change, then see if you could benefit from upper cervical care today! — By Michael J. Court, D.C., Chippewa Valley Wellness
Shovel Safely to Prevent Back Injury The leaves have fallen, and there’s a chill in the air. Only one thing is certain: winter is coming and so is the snow. Once the snow hits the ground, it has to be cleared. Shoveling snow can be great exercise and a good reason to get some fresh air. Unfortunately it’s also one of the most common ways to injure the back in the winter. With a few precautions, this chore can be done without injury. ■ Shovel soon after snowfall; it’s lighter when it’s fresh. ■ Warm up—such as taking a brisk walk—and then stretch. ■ Use a shovel with a curved handle or adjustable handle length to reduce the amount of bending needed. ■ Don’t lift with your low back—hinge forward at the hips and keep your upper body upright. ■ Don’t twist to throw snow. Face the direction that you need it to go. ■ Keep your arms relatively close to you; avoid reaching out too far. ■ For a big snowfall, move it in layers, or go out a couple times to get to it before it settles. ■ Pace yourself. Take breaks as often as you need to. Don’t worry, the snow will still be there when you come back to it. ■ Wear appropriate footwear. In Wisconsin there could easily be an ice rink underneath that layer of fluffy white, so be careful and wear boots with non-slippery soles. Shoveling snow is a strenuous activity, so if you have a history of health conditions or are typically inactive, you need to be especially careful. Your best bet may be to find someone to bribe with a plate of delicious cookies and hot cocoa to enjoy once the job is done. It’s not winter in Wisconsin without some snowfall, so get out there, get the snow cleared safely, and get on with enjoying the beautiful weather! —Dr. Lisa Arkowski, Gonstead, Stangl and Arkowski Chiropractic
Chiropractic Cares
Understanding Cholesterol The cholesterol scare started forty years ago in a bad experiment that ended in some research company telling everyone that cholesterol values over 200 would be harmful and potentially increase the risk of heart disease. Every cell in the body has a double membrane made up of cholesterol and saturated and unsaturated fats. In fact roughly half the membrane is cholesterol. All of our hormones are made from cholesterol, and all of the steroids we use to control inflammation are made from cholesterol. Aldosterone, which reclaims our minerals in the kidneys, is made from cholesterol, These two books, written and cortisol, which controls our blood by medical doctors who sugar level, is made from cholesterol. have not been sold to Oh yes and of course vitamin D. Big Pharma, help us We often have a higher requirement understand the need for cholesterol as we age because of and requirement for the oxidative damage to our tissues. cholesterol. Each time a free radical damages ▪ Statin Drugs Side Effects a cholesterol molecule, we need to and The Misguided War remove the damaged cholesterol from on Cholesterol by Duane our cells and generate a new cholesterol Graveline ▪ The Great Cholesterol molecule to replace the damaged Con, by Malcolm Kendrick one. LDL is not cholesterol but a protein carrier that carries fresh new cholesterol out to the tissues of the body. HDL is the garbage man of the cholesterol system, carrying the damaged cholesterol back to the liver where it is made into bile and used in the digestion of fats. This is where it should stay after it is released from the gallbladder—in the small and into the large intestine and then held by fiber in our bowels and removed as waste. A lack of soluble fiber in the diet often allows the oxidized cholesterol to be pulled out of the colon and brought back into the bloodstream in an attempt to reuse it. This damaged, oxidized cholesterol (not the new perfect cholesterol) is responsible for sticking to the coronary arteries that supply the heart. When we block the production of new fresh cholesterol in an attempt to lower our cholesterol number, we actually unknowingly can accelerate the damage to our coronary arteries because the body is left to try to reuse the damaged cholesterol in an attempt to stay alive. —Dr Alan Lindsley, LIndsley Chiropractic and Natural Healing Center, Bloomer
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Chiropractic Cares
What Is Cold Laser Light Therapy and How Can It Help Me?
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old laser light therapy, also called light therapy, is an adjunct treatment that has been excellent for multiple orthopedic problems. Briefly defined, cold laser effects include promoting healthy cell growth, improving cell metabolism (which is necessary for repair), and also faster wound healing. All of this together equates to a reduction in inflammation, a reduced scar formation, and stimulation to the nerve function, which in essence helps with pain reduction. Cold laser therapy is easy to apply and very safe. Virtually, there are no side effects or pain associated with this treatment, and it sets itself up as a good alternative to analgesics, NSAIDs, and other medications. It may reduce or possibly prolong the need for some surgeries. My use of cold laser is an excellent adjunct to chiropractic care because of its noninvasiveness. Multiple studies have shown effectiveness for the following conditions: • Acute and chronic pain • Ligament sprains and muscle strain
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• Tendinitis, bursitis, arthritis • Back and neck pain • Conditions such as plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, degenerative joint disease, carpal tunnel, TMJ, trigeminal neuralgia, shingles, and many more. Over 2,500 studies have been made in the last thirty years on laser light therapy and have shown it to be a very effective and cost-conscious treatment. — Daniel Czelatdko,DC, CCSP, DACBN, Tenold Chiropractic
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*Sarnot RL, Winterstein, J Clinical and Cost Outcomes of an Integrative Medicine IPA, JMPT, June 2004; 27:336-347
Chiropractic Cares
Chiropractic Works!
3. Spinal manipulation provides nourishment.
How Does a Chiropractic Adjustment Work? Many things occur simultaneously that provide us with the benefits of a chiropractic adjustment. Here are four known effects that begin to explain how chiropractic works.
1. Spinal manipulation removes nerve interference.
Your nervous system is the control center of your body, coordinating each and every action and function. Nerves do not function well under pressure. The subluxation can put pressure on or irritate a nerve and cause inflammation. These will interfere with proper nerve communication. Reducing the subluxation with an adjustment can relieve nerve irritation and improve coordination and function.
Structures within the joint often have limited indirect blood supply. These structures are nourished through movement. If a joint gets locked down for a period of time, it doesn’t receive adequate nutrition. The motion that occurs during an adjustment provides fresh nutrients to all parts of the joint, increasing joint longevity and improving joint function.
4. Spinal manipulation stimulates endorphin release.
2. Spinal manipulation provides nerve-to-muscle education.
When a joint becomes subluxated, it forgets its normal motion and needs to be retrained. During a chiropractic adjustment, the joint goes through its full range of motion and the brain records and stores that nerve signal. When the body has gone through the motion enough times, it remembers it and makes functional corrections that provide pain relief and improve joint function.
An endorphin is a substance in the body that blocks pain. The endorphin release that results from an adjustment creates a near instant but temporary chemical relief that can allow prolonged relaxation of local tissues and tight muscles interfering with nerves and causing pain. With these and many other benefits of the chiropractic adjustment it’s obvious why 20 million Americans seek chiropractic treatment each year and 9 out of 10 chiropractic users feel their treatment is effective; chiropractic works! — Dr. Melissa Stangl, Gonstead, Stangl and Arkowski
Chiropractics
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Aspects of Acupuncture
How Does Acupuncture Work? Acupuncture changes blood flow in the body. This is a very simple way of describing what happens to the body when acupuncture is applied. If done correctly, most patients notice a difference within seconds. Especially, when the problem they are experiencing include pain and emotional challenges.
So what limits the way acupuncture works?
What’s in the blood nutritionally is the main thing that limits acupuncture. If you eat bad food or nutritionally deficient foods for a long period of time, the body cannot fix problems that happen to it in daily activities.
Why does it take some patients two treatments and other patients twenty treatments?
This is based on how fast your body figures out the program that the acupuncturist uses to try to increase the blood flow to specific areas of the body. The faster the body understands where to send the blood flow to, the better the body retains the information, and the faster the body heals. The younger and the healthier you are, the fewer treatments you will need. The older you are and the poorer health you have, the more treatments you will need. So your nutrition can either help or hinder acupuncture.
What Is Cupping? Cupping was originally used in China and Egypt, dating back some 3,500 years, where its use was mentioned in hieroglyphics. Before the invention of glass, therapists would use cow horns or bamboo to remove blood and poison from the body; clinical experience over the years has advanced its application to many areas of the body. Cupping is primarily for the treatment of disease and pain. This has not changed right up to today, but with modern science and more understanding of the technique, cupping has confirmed its rightful place in complementary medicine.
How does cupping work?
The application of cupping is very simple, but its effects are dramatic. Health and well-being (immune system) is totally reliant on the movement of blood, energy, and body fluids
Second Opinion | 20
(hormones, lymphatic fluid, etc). Oriental medicine teaches that all pain is due to blood that doesn’t move correctly. Due to the wonderful pulling power and heat that the cups offer, the technique is dramatic in its reduction of pain and hence our feeling of well-being. The stuck blood can be a result of injury, stress, a lack of blood, energy, or even the cold weather affecting the body and joints. Cupping has been found to affect up to 4 inches into the tissues, causing the tissues to release toxins; activate and clear colon blockages; help activate and clear the veins, arteries, and capillaries; clear stretch marks; and improve varicose veins.
Why does cupping create marks on the skin and do they hurt?
Yes, cupping will leave marks. The marks can range in color from a deep purple to a pale pink. They do not hurt if
cupping is done correctly. Cupping can after a very short time relieve tension and pain from the muscles, which helps to increase mobility also decreasing tension and pain. The benefits of cupping therapy are endless. The stimulating and strengthening effects of cupping have been used successfully for thousands of years.
When should cupping NOT be used?
People on blood thinners, like warfarin and heparin, should not receive cupping because of possible bleeding problems. Anyone with open wounds that have not healed should not receive cupping, because wounds can reopen with cupping. Also, people with thin skin are not good candidates for cupping because skin can tear with cupping. — By Dr Casey Castona, Acupuncuture for Wellness, Eau Claire, Menomonie and Bloomer
To Love and To Serve
I am a recovering helper. As the oldest of five children, I learned at an early age that people need help and you get a lot of attention by helping others. However, after four decades of doing what I “had to” do all the time, I was exhausted! Deciding to give up being a martyr was not easy. But as I started to focus on what would bring me joy, serving others became a joyful experience. Here are three questions to ask yourself as you make plans during the busy holiday time ahead: 1. What are the most important holiday traditions for my family? If you are used to running around like a crazy person to get all the perfect food and gifts, stop, take a deep breath, and consider what would happen if you just did the activities that brought you the most joy. Sure, there may be one less perfect holiday card arriving at your aunt’s house, or maybe the table will look a little less like a magazine photo, but the upside is more time in the present moment with special people in your life. like laughing and enjoying the fire together, a scene worthy of a magazine shoot. 2. What do I really want to do? You are not the sum of all you do on any given holiday. You are awesome! People love you, so don’t deny them access to an engaged you. You want to enjoy the holidays as much as the littlest kid in your life. They believe in the magic of the holidays. The magic is time truly with you, not watching you in a frenzy that leaves you too exhausted to play with the items newly unwrapped. 3. What gift of love can I give myself? Loving and nurturing yourself first will ripple out to everyone in your life. It is not selfish. An hour massage while your kids finish school can lead to the energy to make a gingerbread
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house or bring cookies to a neighbor. Why would you want to keep sugary carbs from the people you love? You better book that massage today! Joy to the world…it starts with your joy. —One of my favorite passages is this from Rachel Naomi Remen’s book, My Grandfather's Blessings: All who serve, serve life... Service is not about fixing life, outwitting life, manipulating life, controlling life, or struggling to gain mastery over life. Service is closer to generosity than it is to duty. It connects us to one another and to life itself. When we experience our connectedness, serving others becomes the natural and joyful thing to do. Over the long run, fixing and helping are draining, but service is renewing. When you serve, your work itself will sustain you, renew you, and bless you. — By Jodi Ritsch, MD (Family physician, owner of The Joyful Doc Clinic, S.C. and Guiding Mindful Change Life Coach)
Life By Design...
Come home to your fabulous self! Aveen Banich, Jodi Ritsch, Lisa Thelen Yoga/Laughter Yoga/Life Coaching/Reiki/ Meditation/Celebrations www.LifeByDesignEC.com The Center, 3701 Highway 12, Eau Claire, WI 54701
Second Opinion | 21
Five Steps to Sweet Holiday Slumber
Relaxation or Therapeutic Massage? Why Not Both?
At least an hour before you intend to sleep, turn off the computer, TV, etc. The light emitted can delay the nighttime production of melatonin.
Over the years I’ve been asked many times what the differewnce between a relaxation massage and a therapeutic massage is. My response is usually that a relaxation massage can be great for someone that is just “stressed out” and needs relief from the stresses of life, while a therapeutic massage is generally needed when a client has an issue such as chronic headaches, back pain, or old injuries that are slow to recover. All of that being said, I believe that the best massages are a combination of both types: relaxing and therapeutic. If a massage therapist embraces this mind-set during a treatment, they allow the mind of the client to be part of the healing process of the body. When a therapist asks the appropriate questions, we are able to figure out if our clients are in need of a massage more focused on relaxation or therapy and are able to treat them accordingly. As licensed massage therapists, when someone comes to us complaining of headache issues, we understand that though we have wonderful techniques to aid in relief of these headaches, that relief will not be as meaningful or long-lasting if we do not also address relaxation therapy and techniques with our clients. This coupling of modalities achieves the desired outcome for our clients—to be able to relax, and to bring ease of movement and freedom from pain to their lives. In the end, most relaxation massages have an element of therapy to them and most therapeutic massages have some relaxation involved. The two concepts have a symbiotic relationship in massage to deliver optimal therapy to the body. If you have not tried a relaxation or therapeutic massage, I urge you to get out and try one today. The Chippewa Valley is blessed with many talented therapists. Enjoy!
1. 2.
Foot massage—After you have gotten ready for bed, drip a few drops of sesame oil onto the sole of one foot and rub the oil all over. Massage your foot: the sole, the top, the ankle, and the sides of the foot. Massage each toe and the webbing between the toes.
3.
Nadi shodanam—This calming yogic breathing technique balances your nervous system. Sit comfortably upright. With your right hand, use the thumb to close your right nostril. Breathe in normally through your left nostril. Use your ring finger to close your left nostril and open your right. Breathe out naturally. Breathe in through the right nostril and switch to open the left. Exhale. This completes one round. Repeat 5 to 10 times.
4.
Legs up—Lie down on your back on the floor with your legs upon a sofa, chair, etc. Make sure your lower legs and head are completely supported. You may want to cover yourself with a blanket, place a few folded blankets or other weight on your shins, and/or place a folded cloth over your eyes. Set a timer for 5 to 10 minutes, or more, and let go.
5.
Mindfulness while falling asleep—Settle yourself comfortably in your bed. Notice where you feel your breath. Watch it the way you would watch the current in a river. Scan your body for areas of tension; choose one, tense it slightly, then release with an out-breath. Imagine tension flowing out like water. Let the current flow through adjacent areas, flowing around tight places as a stream flows around rocks. Imagine thoughts washing away.
— By Eric Willmarth, owner of Chippewa Valley Therapeutic Massage, LLC, Eau Claire, WI
— By Sandra Helpsmeet, The Yoga Center
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Check our website for many new classes.
Take Care of Your Body, Mind, and Spirit This Christmas. When your body is used to exercise, it gets accustomed to the endorphins that are released when working out. Endorphins are the natural pain killing chemicals of the body. Just like any chemical, if your body is accustomed to having its daily dose, and suddenly stop supplying it, you can suffer mild to moderate withdrawal-like symptoms. If you stop working out, your body is denied that release of endorphins. The most common symptoms are depression, anxiety, and cravings. Sound familiar? Whatever you do to keep your body, mind, and spirit
healthy should be maintained during the holidays, despite the many disruptions in your regular routine this time of year. Whether it’s reading for relaxation, attending worship services, or walking to your favorite spot, keep feeding your soul with what it needs--especially during this time of year. As you get ready for the New Year, why not try something new that will help your body? Chiropractic, massage, yoga, pilates, aerobics, weight lifting, and stretching may be just what you are looking for to help alleviate stress in your life. Check around and find something that works for you; it’ll be well worth finding an outlet for some of the stress in your life.
Consider a Therapeutic Massage for You This Holiday Season When I sit and think about the holidays, it brings me back to my childhood. The crisp, cold air, the exuberating scents steaming from the kitchen, and the delightful gathering of family, friends, thankfulness, faith, and good health. Have you taken the time to reminisce this holiday season? It is certainly no secret that the holidays can be overwhelming and stressful: shopping for a perfect gift, getting prepared for family, cooking and cleaning, decorating, and all that goes along with the holiday hustle and bustle. At times I think we often get overwhelmed and stressed fulfilling others’ holiday wishes and forgetting to take time out for ourselves to regain focus and balance for our well-being.
Have you ever considered a therapeutic massage to contest that “overwhelmed” holiday feeling? The benefits of a therapeutic massage are astounding, especially in helping relieve stress. Many studies have proven the negative effects of prolonged stress, causing chronic muscle pain, forgetfulness, hypertension, lowered immune function, and fatigue, not to mention the other deleterious effects. Many of us are unaware that when becoming stressed and overwhelmed with planning, shopping, cleaning, and being selfless, our bodies are secretly battling a chemical called cortisol. The chemical cortisol, commonly known as the stress hormone, is a naturally produced hormone with a primary function of increasing blood sugar through gluconeogenesis,
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suppressing the immune system, and aiding the metabolism of fat, protein, and carbohydrates. When our bodies are under stress for prolonged periods of time the over-production of cortisol can cause significant adverse physiological effects. So, this holiday season keep in mind the effects of stress and the advantages of a therapeutic massage. A monthly therapeutic massage allows your body to cleanse toxins and function optimally. The physical manipulation of muscles and tissues increases blood and lymphatic circulation, allowing your circulatory system to cleanse itself naturally and leave you feeling rejuvenated and refueled. Season’s greetings and happy holidays from Isabell & Eve Therapeutic Massage
“Touching One Life at a Time” $10 off for first time clients
Summer Pena-Olson 715-382-3392
103 ½ North Bridge Street, Suite 250, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 www.isabellandeve.massagetherapy.com Second Opinion | 23
Healthy Pets
Healthy Tips for Your Pets This “Howl”-iday
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any of the things that we traditionally use this holiday season can pose problems for pets. Decorations, seasonal plants, and even the foods we eat can wreak havoc on our pets. This causes, at the very least, a phone call to your veterinarian, and at worst an emergency surgery that was certainly not in the holiday budget. Being aware of these items can make things less stressful for you AND your pets. We all love to decorate our homes this time of year, as you can see by the aisles and aisles of holiday décor in stores. From our point of view, they brighten our homes and make entertaining fun. From our pet’s point of view, however, they are items to explore, which can mean that they chew and/or eat them. This is where the trouble can start. For example, the shiny tinsel on the tree or the gift wrap ribbon on the gift below it can entice cats, and even curious puppies, to play with these shiny new “toys”. Unfortunately, if they are Second Opinion | 24
Poinsettias, mistletoe, holly, and even pine needles from the Christmas tree can pose problems for your cats and dogs. swallowed, these “toys” can make our pets very sick, very quickly, and often require surgery to remove. If you see your pet chewing on your decorations and he or she begins vomiting, call your veterinarian right away! The sooner we can intervene in these cases, the better the chance of a positive outcome. Poinsettias, mistletoe, holly, and even pine needles from the Christmas tree can pose problems for your cats and dogs. While hearing that poinsettias are toxic is probably nothing new, our clients often tell us that they never expected their pet to try to chew on the decorative plant. The stomach upset that follows always seems to happen when the inlaws are visiting! And while it may not require an emergency visit to the doctor,
it certainly adds stress to an already hectic time. Finally, while sharing a “small bite” with our pets might seem like a reward for good behavior, it’s important to remember that certain things we enjoy can be harmful to our pets. Chocolate, certain nuts, and fruits such as grapes can all be toxic to a dog or cat. And that small bite of turkey, especially the skin or fatty pieces, can be too much for our small pet’s pancreas to digest, leading to the medical condition of pancreatitis and often an extended hospital stay. So as tempting as those big, pleading eyes may be during this season of giving, taking a moment to sit down, relax, and kick back with your pet, giving them the attention they miss as we hustle and bustle around, is really the best gift for both you and your pet. Happy Howlidays from all of us at Animal Wellness Center of Buffalo Valley! — By Dr. Margaret Meier, DVM, CVSMT, Animal Wellness Center of Buffalo Valley
Healthy Pets
De-Stress Your Pet this Holiday Do you get just a little stressed out during the holiday season, what with the shopping and the cooking and the entertaining? Well, if you do, how do you think your pets feel since they don’t even know what is going on? They just know there are strange people coming in their home, tinsel on the tree that looks quite yummy and maybe they’re even getting yelled at to get out of the kitchen, their most favorite room in the house!! There are definitely things you can do to help ease that stress if you truly care about your beloved fur companion. One of the best go-to remedies is essential oil. However, you have to be careful how it is used, especially with cats who cannot process most oils. Lavender is the best to start with if you have a multispecies home, as it is one oil that cats do not have a problem with. Use either directly by rubbing a drop on the ears of your pet, or in a diffuser for a full-room treatment. It might even help you! Valerian, chamomile and Young Living’s Peace and Calming are very good oils for dogs and horses, but not cats. Probiotics are a must during times of stress, as they will help decrease the incidence of diarrhea and lower GI issues caused by anxiety. They should be started at least two weeks prior to the stressful event such as boarding, a party, etc. and continued at least two weeks after. Probiotics regulate the system and are generally important for gut and systemic health. Some herbs that might be handy to keep around are slippery elm, peppermint and rosemary, all of which can settle digestive upset and sooth an irritable bowel. Please remember your furry family members this holiday season and keep an eye out for stress-related illness or behavior issues. They will thank you for it. — By Meg Wittenmyer and Dr. Linda Vognar, DVM CVA
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Winter Care for Dogs Wisconsin winters take their toll on our four-legged family members, and because our pets don’t complain, we sometimes forget that their needs change through the year. Some of the most common winter problems that ail our pets are the simplest to treat and prevent. Dry Skin Heating our homes not only dries our skin but our pets, too. Many dogs and cats suffer from dry skin. Whether it’s due to allergies or dry winter air, there are a few easy ways to treat and prevent this problem. Feeding your dog a high-quality dog food supplement that contains not just vitamins and minerals, but digestive enzymes, probiotics, and omega 6, is essential. Intestinal wellness is the secret to healthy skin and coat, as well as overall health and wellness. Fido-Vite is a locally produced supplement that guarantees their product or your money back (www.fido-vite.com). Herbs are also a great way to treat dogs and cats. Plants like nettle and oats are just a couple of herbs that make a huge difference when it comes to your dog’s or cat’s skin. Remember, when bathing at home, use a shampoo that is plant based and chemical free to avoid further irritation. — By Melissa Kullman, Master Groomer, Puckabee’s EcoFriendly Grooming
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Healthy Pets
Don't Feed These to Fido You may share your backyard and even your bed, but it’s probably best to avoid sharing a meal with man’s best friend, or any other pet for that matter. Listed here are some common everyday (and holiday) goodies Fido should never have.
►Holiday Goodies
Raw Yeast, Bread Dough Why: Forms gas in the digestive track; fermentation of yeast causes alcohol poisoning. Poisonous to: All species, but only dogs typically ingest it. Possible effects of poisoning: Distention of abdomen, vomiting, disorientation, diarrhea, lethargy, lack of coordination, difficulty breathing, tremors, coma, seizures.
►Mistletoe and Holly
Dangerous for: Cats and dogs. Possible symptoms: Mistletoe and holly may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart arrhythmia in both cats and dogs.
►Turkey Bones
Even if your dog looks at you with pleading eyes, resist the urge to throw holiday table scraps his way. Rich, fatty foods can cause illness, and ingested turkey bones can splinter and puncture internal organs. Dangerous for: Leftover food and bones can be harmful to both cats and dogs. Possible symptoms: Consuming leftover food may cause animals to experience vomiting and diarrhea. Fatty foods can also promote pancreatitis—a potentially dangerous inflammation of the pancreas that produces toxic enzymes and causes illness and dehydration. If swallowed, bones can cause stomach perforation and painful constipation that requires veterinary help.
►Sugar-Free Baked Goods
Holiday cookies might look like a tempting treat for Fido, but the artificial sweetener xylitol, found in some sugar-free baked goods, can cause his blood pressure Second Opinion | 26
to drop to dangerously low levels. Dangerous for: Dogs. Possible symptoms: Vomiting, lethargy, loss of coordination, seizures, and liver failure may indicate poisoning from xylitol.
►Chocolate
Chocolate, which stimulates the nervous system and the heart, should be kept far away from four-legged friends. Although all chocolate should be avoided, dark chocolate poses a greater risk than sweeter varieties, such as milk chocolate. Dangerous for: Mainly dogs. Cats don’t have the same “sweet tooth” and aren’t as likely to eat dangerous quantities. Possible symptoms: Consumption of chocolate can cause agitation, vomiting, diarrhea, high heart rate, tremors, seizures, and even death.
►Alcohol
Fluffy might look thirsty, but keep her away from the punch and eggnog. Pets should never ingest alcoholic beverages, because alcohol depresses the nervous system. Dangerous for: Cats and dogs. Possible symptoms: Alcohol may cause vomiting, disorientation, diarrhea, lethargy, lack of coordination, difficulty breathing, tremors, coma, and seizures.
►Tinsel and Ribbons
These shiny decorations may look pretty, but they can cause serious problems for cats and dogs. Never wrap tinsel or ribbon around the neck of a pet, no matter how festive it looks—this is a choking hazard. Dangerous for: Cats and dogs. Possible effects: If swallowed, tinsel and other decorations like ribbon can cut up the digestive tract and cause intestinal obstruction.
►Christmas Tree
Pine needles won’t harm your pet, but there are plenty of dangers surrounding a Christmas tree. The tree should always be properly secured, and fragile glass ornaments should be kept off low-lying branches to avoid losing family favorites if your pet decides to play. If your cat is prone to climbing, leave ornaments off the tree for a few days to see if he will attempt to climb it. If you have a real Christmas tree, don’t add fertilizer to the tree water, and keep pets away from stagnant water in the reservoir. Dangerous for: Cats and dogs. Possible symptoms: Tree fertilizer and stagnant water may cause vomiting and diarrhea.
►Everyday Goodies
Grapes, Raisins Why: Damage the kidneys. Poisonous to: Dogs, cats. Possible effects of poisoning: Increased thirst, increased urination, lethargy, vomiting.
►Garlic, Onions
Why: Damage red blood cells, causing anemia. Poisonous to: Cats, dogs. Possible effects of poisoning: Vomiting, red-colored urine, weakness, anemia.
►Macadamia Nuts
Why: Cause muscle and nervous-system problems. Poisonous to: Dogs. Possible effects of poisoning: Vomiting, lethargy, weakness, increased body temperature, tremors.
►Avocados
Why: Contain persin, which damages the heart muscle. Poisonous to: Most species―birds are especially sensitive. Possible effects of poisoning: Vomiting, diarrhea (in dogs), lethargy, difficulty breathing (in birds and rodents).
Colon Hydrotherapy
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olon hydrotherapy uses FDA-approved equipment to instill temperature-controlled, filtered water into the colon by way of a speculum to remove toxins from the body and improve colon health. A three-step filtration system is used for the water supply. All waste is contained in tubing, so there is no mess or odor, and waste flows directly into the sewer system. The tubing and speculum are disposable. All other equipment is disinfected with a germicide after each use. There is also a back-flow prevention valve built into the tubing. A gown is worn, and you are covered with a sheet to maintain privacy. A colonic will reach the entire colon, which is approximately 5–6 feet in length, unlike an enema, which will only reach the lower portion of the colon. Ideally, a person should have two to three bowel movements per day. If not, a person can become dehydrated and constipated. A colon hydrotherapy session is equivalent to a 45-minute workout on the treadmill for your colon. It helps your colon to work more efficiently because it relies on peristalsis, which is a muscular contraction to move waste through the colon to expel it. Laxatives are chemical irritants and can become habit forming. Colon hydrotherapy uses only filtered water. I have had irritable bowel syndrome and after having several colonics, I can eat ANYTHING and no longer suffer from diarrhea. I also met a colon hydrotherapist in Nevada who had severe acne and had tried “everything under the sun” with no results. After having several colonics, her skin cleared. Ancient Egyptians practiced colon hydrotherapy as early as 1500 BC. Colon hydrotherapy equipment was used in hospitals in the 1950s but was removed in the 1960s due to the use of pharmaceuticals. Dr. Kellogg published in the 1917 Journal of American Medicine that out of 40,000 cases of gastrointestinal disease, only 20 cases required surgery. The rest were helped as a result of cleansing the bowels, exercise, and diet. — By Lorri Lorenz, Clear Water Cleanse
Healing Paths
When was the last time you felt really good? Healthy? Slept well? Why haven’t you felt “normal?”
Education is Power
Is the issue lack of information, lack of motivation, or just not sure where to start? We know education is power. Not just in flexing your brain but also in the knowledge of the basics to care for yourself and your family. Too many health issues that were reserved for the “older” citizens are now trickling down to our children and grandchildren. Arthritis, diabetes, obesity, increases in allergies to everyday foods like peanut butter, nuts, breads and so much more. There are increases in what were once rare diseases are now becoming common place like autism, ADD/ADHD or even juvenile auto immune diseases. There is so much information available but you have a difficult time in deciphering what is true and what is in error, what is pertinent and what is hype. Does anyone have any reasonable answers? All you would like is to feel better and take care of your family. Not too much to ask…right? What if I told you that there are answers and you can take back your control and responsibility for you and your family’s health in a logical, science-based manner without breaking the bank and taking a doctorate to do so. As a doctor, I spent many years learning and practicing natural healthcare. I had serious health issues resulting from life-threatening motor vehicle crashes. I changed my life plans and sought and continue to seek answers to help myself. I am on the right tract as I feel better now than I did twenty years ago. I also utilize several various modalities to improve my health and continue to study (finishing my studies leading to two more doctorates) to learn for myself and to assist others like you. Please join us on Tuesday evenings at Globe University for FREE educational classes. Please RSVP attendance to me at drlynnthompson1@gmail.com to confirm. I hope to see you soon and pray for you all the best and the wisdom to find it!
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Healing Paths
Got It? By Heidi Toy, Nutritional Therapy Practitioner
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he National Institute of Diabetes and Kidney Digestive Diseases reports that 60 million people experience heartburn at least once a month and 25 million experience symptoms daily. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), one the most common digestive disorders, is also one of the most mismanaged diseases by the medical establishment. The anti-acid industry is worth over $15 billion annually, and as the usage of these drugs increase, our health declines. Acid reflux is believed by many to be too much stomach acid, hence an acid blocker. The problem with this theory is that the incidence of heartburn and GERD increases with age while stomach acid levels have been shown to decline with age. The truth is, heartburn is not caused by too much stomach acid. It is caused by too little, and the way to heal it is not by taking acid blockers but by taking stomach acid until the body is able to make its own normally. So why do antacid drugs provide relief of symptoms? Read on. Stomach acid has the acidity of 0.8, battery acid is 0.
Nutrition is the medicine that allows people to heal without medicine.
The pH scale ranges from an acidity of 0 to an alkalinity of 14 and is a base 10 scale, which means when you go up or down the scale, the next number is multiplied by 10. So for example, you move up or down the scale by two, the acidity or alkaline of a substance is changing by 100, by 3 - 1,000, by 4 - 10,000 and so on. When food enters the stomach it mixes with what is called hydrochloric acid (HCL) and it becomes chyme (rhymes with time). I call this "the burn and churn." This mechanical mixing of our food with acid is when the enzyme pepsin, required for protein digestion, gets triggered. Now here’s the catch: in order for food to move into the small intestine, it must reach an acidity level of 1.5–3.0 to pass through the tight muscle separating the stomach from the small intestine called the pyloric sphincter. The small intestine is where the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates and fats occurs. If it is not acidic enough, the pyloric sphincter will not open and chyme will sit in the stomach. As it sits there fermenting (carbohydrates), putrefying (protein), and turning rancid (fat), it’s becoming a toxic mess, and the body wants to get rid of it. What happens when you shake a bottle of fermented liquid like beer? It explodes! That same thing is occurring in our stomach, and it has nowhere to go but up into your esophagus. What is crucial to understand is that any amount of acid in the esophagus will burn it because the lining here is not protected against acid like the stomach is. Chyme
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Healing Paths with the acidity of 4–5 is too alkaline by 10 to 100x to pass Around 99 percent of the calcium in the body is used to through the pyloric sphincter into the small intestine and too keep our bones and teeth strong, thereby supporting skeletal acidic by that same 10 to 100x to be in the esophagus. structure and function. The rest of the calcium in our body When an acid blocker is taken, it does decrease the acid and plays key roles in cell signaling, blood clotting, muscle reduce the symptoms of heartburn and GERD, but in no way contraction, and nerve function. does it heal the problem In fact it makes the problem worse. Zinc plays a crucial role in over 300 enzymes in the body. The longer someone is medicating with acid blockers, the more It is vital for growth and cell division and fertility. Among all severe the condition becomes, making this become a lifelong vitamins and minerals, zinc shows the strongest effect on our medication for those who are taking them. immune system. Low zinc levels reduce and weaken T cells, People who take acid blockers for an extended which are required to recognize and fight off period of time have been shown to have increased certain infections. When an acid bacterial overgrowth, impaired nutrient absorption, Another role of HCL is to bathe and disinfect our blocker is taken, it decreased resistance to infection and parasites, and foods, making our stomachs one of our first lines does decrease the an increased risk of cancer and other diseases. of defense against foreign invaders such as harmful acid and reduce Without adequate stomach acid we are not able bacteria. It also keeps our beneficial bacteria in our the symptoms to properly digest and absorb the nutrients from intestine where it belongs, as having bacteria in the of heartburn and our foods. Low stomach acid has been linked to a stomach and esophagus creates problems. GERD, but in no plethora of nutritional deficiencies. People with low stomach acid or on acid way does it heal B12 is needed for nerve activity, brain function, blockers are more susceptible to pathogens like the problem In and by the liver as part of detoxification. B12 salmonella, campylobacter, cholera, listeria, fact it makes the enters the body bound to animal proteins and giardia, and C.Difficile. Their immune system is problem worse. cannot be separated from its carrier protein unless also decreased in its ability to fight infections. there is adequate stomach acid. Heartburn and GERD are caused by too little versus too much Iron is required for the oxygenation of body tissue. People stomach acid. However, it is possible to heal the body and rid who are anemic are iron deficient, and their tissue is being one of the dependency on acid-reflux drugs. It should be done starved of oxygen. Studies have proven that people with with a practitioner who understands the protocol, as it is very chronic anemia also have below normal stomach acid secretion. bio-individual and takes time and know-how. In my clinical Folate is crucial to red blood cell production—it helps practice, it has been my pleasure to help many people heal from prevent osteoporosis-related bone fractures—and to prevent this and other health issues. dementias, including Alzheimer’s disease. Low stomach acid Heidi Toy is a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, and the owner interferes with the absorption of folate by raising the pH of the of "Educated Nutrition", located in Altoona, WI. Her focus is small intestines. It has also been shown in studies that both the helping people heal holistically, with an emphasis on autoimmune disorders. drugs Tagamet and Zantac reduce folate absorption. Carrying Organic Produce, Bulk Items, Herbs and Supplements 1 South Main Street Rice Lake, WI 54868 715-234-7045
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Good Eats
The Pros and Cons of Gummy Multi-vitamins for Children
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here are a wide range of daily multi-vitamins on store shelves to choose from, including many different brands, forms, and flavors. Gummy vitamins have become quite popular for children who take a daily multi-vitamin. When choosing a vitamin supplement for your child, carefully choose a vitamin that will be safe and effective for your child’s unique needs. Also, check that it has the recommended daily allowances of the vitamins and minerals that children might need, including vitamins A, C, D, K, the B vitamins, iron, and calcium. There are several pros and cons to providing your child with a daily gummy multi-vitamin, which should be taken into consideration during your search for the vitamin that best fits your child’s needs.
Several pros to providing your children with daily multi-vitamins include the following:
■ Children can be very picky eaters. Although it is best for children to get their nutrients from the food they consume, all parents and guardians know that this can be difficult at times. Gummy vitamins can be used to help make sure your child is consuming the proper amount of nutrients each day. ■ Gummy vitamins can be easier for children to take. Most young children are unable to swallow pills, while the hard, chewable ones may be a difficult texture for them to chew or swallow. The gummy vitamins are softer and easier for young children to handle. ■ Gummy vitamins have a comparable sweet taste and chewy texture that make them seem similar to eating candy. This often makes children excited to take them each day. Second Opinion | 30
■ There are a wide variety of brands, flavors, and shapes to choose from that allows you to find the best kind of gummy multi-vitamin that your child prefers, and that fits their specific needs. Several cons to providing your children with daily multivitamins include the following: ■ The similarity that gummy vitamins have to candy can make them tempting to a child looking for something sweet, like candy. It is important to store the gummy vitamins the same way that medicine is stored to ensure that children cannot get into them freely. Taking more than the recommended dose may give your child an overdose of vitamins. ■ The gummy, sticky texture of the vitamins can be harmful to your child’s teeth, such as contributing to the formation of cavities. To avoid harm to your child’s teeth, have your child brush their teeth after consuming the gummy vitamins, rather than before. This will help remove some of the sticky residue left behind on the teeth, preventing the formation of cavities or other dental problems from occurring. ■ In comparing gummy vitamins to the non-gummy forms, there are usually lower percentages of some nutrients in the gummy varieties. Reading the labels to compare the gummy vitamins to other forms will provide you with an educated decision about which form you prefer for your child. ■ Vitamins should be taken along with a meal to help them be absorbed slowly and properly. If vitamins are absorbed too quickly, they may be excreted by the body and could cause an upset stomach or nausea. ■ The cost of gummy vitamins is often more expensive than a pill form. It may be worth the cost if it is a way to get your children to take their vitamins daily. Scientific reviews can be assessed about many of the popular vitamin brands. Looking at these reviews may be helpful in selecting a vitamin that you can be most comfortable with providing to your child. When looking at the scientific reviews about the various vitamin brands, focus on factors such as the ingredients, quality level, and safety of their vitamins. If you have any concerns about the nutritional well-being of your child, be sure to contact your doctor. — By Melissa Panchyshyn, MS, UW-Stout dietetic intern at the Eau Claire City County Health Department
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Good Eats
Pairing It Up!
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oliday parties present a great opportunity to share good food and wine with friends and family. But stress can creep in as we try to decide what wines are best served with what foods. At River Bend Winery in Chippewa Falls, we always say there is only one rule when it comes to pairing food and wine, and that is to drink what you like. That being said, it can be great fun to come up with just the right combination of wine and food for a party. Here are a few simple tips that can be helpful when planning a dinner where wine will be served. 1. Don’t overpower the wine with the food, or vice versa. A light meal is best accompanied by a light wine. If appetizers or tapas are the feature, opt for a light white wine or a nice bubbly. If you want to serve dry, think Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris. If you want to serve sweet, think Moscato or River Bend Moonlight. 2. In general, white wines pair well with white meat and seafood, and red wines pair well with red meat and steak. If chicken or white fish are on the menu, almost any white wine will pair nicely. Pork tenderloin begs to be paired with Pinot Noir or River Bend Marquette. A steak or rich pasta calls for bold wine…think Cabernet or a red blend. 3. Always defer to the only rule that matters: drink what you like, and therefore serve what you like. Most people are not wine connoisseurs, and they will happily drink whatever you have to offer. As a winemaker, I am often asked what the best wine I’ve ever had is, and my honest answer is this: the one I shared with family and friends. Cheers! — Donna Sachs, Winemaker, River Bend Winery, Chippewa Falls www.riverbendvineyard.com, 715-720-9463
Salty Foods
Fries, Potato Chips, Cavier, Anchovies, Sushi, Fish & Shellfish, Poultry WINES: Most sparkling wines
Vegetable Dishes Salads, Sauteed Vegetables, Fish, Chicken WINES: Albariño, Grüner Veltliner, Gargenega, Muscadet, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Trebbiano, Vermentino
Spicy Cuisine Indian, Thai & Chinese Cuisine WINES: Chenin Blanc, Gewürztraminer, Moscato, Riesling, Torrontés
Creamy Dishes Creamy Soups, Pastas & Lasagna, Quiche, Shellfish, Poultry WINES: Chardonnay, Sémilion, Viognier, Marsanne, Roussanne
Richly Flavored Food
Mushroom Driven Dishes
WINES: Most dry Rosé wine
WINES: Pinot Noir, Gamay, St. Laurent, Carignan, Counoise, Zweigelt
Mediterranean, Moroccan, & Indian Cuisines, Spiced Dishes, Shellfish, Pork, Poultry
Risotto, Creamy Pasta, French Cuisine, Pork, Poultry
Roasted Food
Rich Meats
Sweets
WINES: Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Cabernet Franc, Barbera, Merlot, Negroamaro, Zinfandel, Carmenere, Nebbiolo
WINES: Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Malbec, Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, Mourvedre, Nero d’Avola
WINES: Port, Sherry, Sauternes, Madeira, Vin Santo, Muscat, Late Harvest Wines
Itallian & Spanish Cuisine, Pizza, Pork, Duck, Lamb
Roasted, Smoked & Barbecued Meats
Cakes, Chocolate, Pie, Ice Cream, Soft Cheese, Fruit
Second Opinion | 31
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