Wellspring issue #10 by The Wellspring

CONFERENCE WITH ISAAC SANDER OF HEALTHY JOY BAKES

MY SHOCKING DISCOVERY: THE FIRE WITHIN I thought eczema was the reason for my inflamed skin. The culprit was cortisone.

DEDICATED TO HEALTH Ten Questions for Rabbi Hershel Kohn of RCCS

NEW COLUMN!

CUP OF TEA

GOOD FOOD INSIDE

How can I get my baby to sleep through the night? Sleep coach Shifra Sadoff has the answer

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Editor In Chief Shiffy Friedman, MSW, CNWC Nutritional Advisory Board Jack Friedman, PhD • Moshe Weinberger Shani Taub, CDC • Dr. Rachael Schindler Tanya Rosen, MS CAI CPT Fitness Advisory Board LR Wilen, PFC • Syma Kranz, PFC Esther Fried, PFC Managing Editor Esty Cinner Feature Editors Rochel Gordon • Liba Solomon, CNWC Copy Editor Gila Zemmel • Faige Badian Food Editor Levia Joseph Creative Directors Miriam Bluming • Rivky Schwartz Art Director Chavy Lefkowitz Digital Marketing Goldi Feldman • Simcha Nunez Store Distribution Motty Srugo 718-496-1364 Write To Us: 694 Myrtle Ave. Suite 389 Brooklyn, NY 11205 info@wellspringmagazine.com www.wellspringmagazine.com The Wellspring Magazine is published monthly by Maxi-Health Research LLC. All rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part or in any form without prior written permission from the publisher is prohibited. The publisher reserves the right to edit all articles for clarity, space and editorial sensitivities. The Wellspring Magazine assumes no responsibility for the content or kashrus of advertisements in the publication, nor for the content of books that are referred to or excerpted herein. The contents of The Wellspring Magazine, such as text, graphics and other material (content) are intended for educational purposed only. The content is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health care provider with any questions you have regarding your medical condition.

Find The Wellspring as a monthly insert in Ami Magazine or at your local pharmacy or health food store. For the PDF version and for back issues, visit www.wellspringmagazine.com. Production: www.mediaotg.com

From the Editor

Dear Readers, In the days before I was whisked into the breathtaking whirlwind that is motherhood, I used to volunteer at the local hospital. Together with a friend, I would journey out to the pediatric ward, bags of homemade brownie cake and toys in hand. The illnesses I encountered during that enlightening period in my life were varied, but they each had me bite my lips really hard. The last thing these parents needed, spent from their own long, sleepless nights of darkness and tears, was for me to break down. So we went from room to room, Esther and I, doling out the goodies for adults, prizes for the kids, and offering the brightest smiles we could muster for both. In some rooms, the parents’ eyes lit up when we offered the modest piece of brownie cake. Some parents asked about the kashrus, some didn’t, but almost everyone gratefully accepted our homemade fare. And I wouldn’t remember the ones who didn’t—except for one couple. When we entered their room, both father and mother were seated on their child’s bed, huddled around him. Their son, who must have been around five at the time, had this cute little mushroom cut that framed his charming face. All three of them looked seemingly okay (although I’d learned that externals meant absolutely nothing in the place on Earth that is filled with too many surprises) and the parents welcomed us warmly. While their son was excitedly busy unwrapping the prize he’d just received, I pulled out a bag of cake for the parents. As soon as the mother spotted it, she said to me, “It’s very kind of you for thinking of us, but our Sam has been diagnosed with diabetes this morning. My husband and I have decided that we won’t eat anything that he can’t have. We truly want to understand what he’s going through.” After that encounter, I thought a lot about the parents’ approach. Of course, I admired their selfless endeavor toward unparalleled empathy. Giving up all foods that are off limits to a diabetic is no simple feat! And then, I wondered if there was no other way for them to let him know how much they cared for him, in a way that wouldn’t later leave him with feelings of guilt. In this issue’s "Tried and True", the column that welcomes readers’ questions for discussion, a mother asks whether or not to ban eggs from her home on behalf of her allergic daughter. Even the allergist who honored us with her participation, Dr. Sarah Silverman of the Mt. Sinai Medical Group, responded that there is no one right answer. Should the mother take the step on behalf of her allergic child or should she consider the needs of her other children? Moral decisions are always a tough call. Should we sleep train our baby or not? many parents ask themselves. On the one hand, it seems like a cruel deed. Perhaps my baby needs to eat while I think he must stay in his bed now. But maybe it will do him good to first be well rested. In “Cup of Tea,” you will meet sleep coach Shifra Sadoff, who provides the perfect balance. After discussing her well-developed method with Rebbetzin Miriam Solomon, the rebbetzin of the Lakewood Mashgiach, the Rebbetzin assured her that gentle sleep training, where the parent remains in the room as the baby learns to sleep, is seicheldig and completely fine to implement. Thankfully, we Torah Jews are able to turn to daas Torah with our quandaries. The incredible benefit of receiving guidance on every dilemma that comes our way makes our lives all the more beautiful and stress-free. And as the inspiring article “Torah Wellspring” reveals, even on issues pertaining to the seemingly physical realm of health, the Torah has set forth a clear-cut path for us. How fortunate we are, indeed.

Wishing you a healthy and stress-free winter,

Shiffy Friedman

shiffy@wellspringmagazine.com

Well-Put!

“The very item I believed was healing me was, in fact, hurting me. It may be hurting you, too,” says Ruchy Reese in this issue’s groundbreaking cover story. For years, she thought her inflamed skin was a result of eczema. When she dug deeper, she was in for a surprise. Read all about it on page 36.

Contents

CHESHVAN 5777

NOVEMBER2016 WELL INFORMED

WELLNESS PLATFORM By Rabbi Hirsch Meisels

WELL ACQUAINTED By Joe Pira, NYS Licensed Optician

TORAH WELLSPRING By Rabbi Ezra Friedman

HEALTH TIDBITS IN THE NEWS By Liba Solomon, CNWC

FIGURES By Ruchy Reese

WEALTH OF HEALTH Conference with Healthy Joy Bakes By Sarah Weinberger

36 LIVING WELL 32

ASK THE NUTRITIONIST Ageless Endeavor By Shani Taub, CDC

IN GOOD SHAPE Build Up Your Strength By Syma Kranz, PFC

DEDICATED TO HEALTH COLUMN! 10 Questions for Rabbi Hershel Kohn By Shiffy Friedman

COVER FEATURE The Fire Within By Ruchy Reese

NATURALLY WELL By Mindy Lewis

HEALTH PROFILE Client: Hindy By Esther Steinmetz

HEALTHY HOME HABITS The Allergy Dilemma By Batsheva Fine

MONTHLY DOSE The Magic Mineral By Dina Mendlowitz

NEW

“THE BEST PART OF MY WORK IS THE MANY SEUDOS HODA’AH I ATTEND.” -RABBI HERSHEL KOHN

PAGE 28

FAREWELL 71

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

“THE DEEP FLAVOR THAT THE CARAMELIZED SHALLOTS LEND TO THIS DELECTABLE DISH IS INCREDIBLE.” - LEVIA JOSEPH, SEASONED

PAGE 49

EAT WELL

WELLBEING 63

CLEAN SLATE By Shiffy Friedman, MSW, CNWC

HEALTH PERSONALITY Shifra Sadoff By Miri Davis

FROM THE GROUND UP It's Time to Tell By Dr. Joel Rosenshein

SEASONED Soup for the Soul By Levia Joseph

NUTRITION FACTS IN A SHELL This Month: Broccoli By Devorah Isaacson

EMOTIONAL WELLNESS Anxious to Know By David H. Rosmarin & Peryl Agishtein

INKWELL 70

52 “YOU CAN’T OUTEXERCISE A BAD DIET." - SYMA KRANZ, PFC

DIARY How Maxi UTI Saved my Pregnancy By Chani G.

PAGE 33

Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 9

Springboard

Letters

Memories of the Sting A miraculous recovery [Issue #9: The Buzz on Apitherapy] Dear Editor:

A Reader’s Search For esrog juice [Issue #9: Cup of Tea with the Etrog Man] Dear Editor: Among the many interesting articles in your Succos edition, I was intrigued to learn of the esrog juice’s healing properties. I would love to try some of it. Does anyone in the Tri-State area sell it? Thanks in advance, P. F.

I was very excited to see that your magazine covered apitherapy. Several decades ago, I suffered terribly from arthritis. I was still a young mother at the time, and I was nearly incapacitated due to my pain and discomfort. A friend of mine was the good shaliach who introduced me to an apitherapist in Manhattan. After several visits, I gradually regained my ability to use my joints. I am forever grateful to Hashem for this wondrous “natural” miracle. Many thanks for a beautiful magazine. Mrs. Simkowitz

Suggestion to Cream Users For beautiful skin [Issue #9: Conference with Naturalife™] Dear Editor:

Migraine Misconception Here’s what helped me [Issue #8: Tidbits] Dear Editor, I am writing to let you know that as of late I have been using a new vitamin called Migraine Max. I suffer from frequent migraine headaches and am often debilitated from the extreme pain. Mr. Chaim Bergman from Supreme Health, in Monsey, suggested that I try this vitamin, and I'm happy to report that I'm seeing some difference in the frequency and severity of the pain. Hopefully, if I continue with this vitamin, I will be seeing more improvement, and maybe the bad headaches will become a bad memory. Thank you for the awareness, R. Bernfeld Monsey, New York 10 The Wellspring | November 2016

Thanks for your informative write up on Naturalife™. I’ve been using their creams and have seen true success with them, especially the Eczema Psoriasis Formula. I feel comfortable to use it on my babies, knowing that it’s 100% cortisone free. However, I found that with one of my babies, the redness intensifies after I apply the cream, so I try to apply the cream before bedtime and she wakes up with beautiful skin. Thank you for such an educational frum health magazine. B. Deutsch Monsey, NY

My Ear Infection Saga A reader relates [Issue #9: When the Pulling Came to an End] Dear Editor: Gitty M.’s portrayal of her son’s ear

infection saga reminded me so much of ours. We had a very similar experience with our three-year-old daughter, who also went from one ear infection straight into the next. Besides for the pain she was obviously experiencing, I was very concerned that the infections would affect her hearing. Ever since I was introduced to Maxi Health Kyolic® Liquid and Panto C Powder™, she’s a different child, Baruch Hashem. The combination works great for any infection, I found, and has become a staple in our child-blessed home. Many thanks for spreading awareness about natural healing. Chaya T. Far Rockaway

His Vision Was Restored A grateful wife reports [Issue #9: Bid Farewell to Bifocals] Dear Editor: A year ago, my husband was recommended by his doctor to start wearing bifocal or progressive glasses.We went to our local store, filled his prescription, and thus started a whole stressful cycle of doctor’s visits and store visits and lots of money spending. He simply couldn’t see. We kept going back to the doctor to tweak his prescription and back to the store to get a new frame and redo his lenses. First we thought the prescription was the issue, then we thought the lens was the issue, then we thought the doctor was the issue. And then, finally, I read The Wellspring. When I hit upon Joe Pira’s articles and realized that he may be able to help us, we decided to get his opinion. I asked around and found out that progressives needs an expert, and when I asked around some more I learned that Joe Pira was the go-to guy for all things progressive. We went to the Lens Center in Boro Park (a half-hour’s drive from my house) and we can’t thank you enough for being the shaliach. My husband can finally see. He says since he’s young he’s never seen so well!

Joe explained that progressives need a perfect fit; that not all options work for everyone. He patiently asked my husband what his issues were, about his occupation, hobbies, learning schedule, etc. and made a thorough analysis regarding which brand to go with before measuring his eyes in a very detailed and comprehensive evaluation. We really felt comfortable in his hands and we thank Hashem for sending us the right shaliach. Gitty A. Flatbush

Bedwetting Alarm Where to purchase it [Issue #9: Tried and True] Dear Editor: Henny from Seagate mentioned a bedwetting alarm that helped with her child’s bedwetting problem.We got the bedwetting alarm through insurance at Baron Medical Supply. They claim that the bedwetting alarms are covered by most insurances. Their phone number is 718-486-6164 and they deliver all over. B.S. Brooklyn

Making the Connection Dyslexia & growth mindset [Issue #8: From the Ground Up Cover Feature] Dear Editor: I found it interesting that you featured articles on dyslexia and the growth mindset. In her illuminating interview, Dr. Green explained that while a large percentage of children with dyslexia make it to the top in the corporate, creative, or technological

world, about 35% land in the prison systems. While it is true that the children who receive intervention early on are better off, I believe that a lot of it depends on growth mindset. As a reading consultant, I’ve seen the wondrous results of what Dr. Dweck calls the growth mindset. As Nina writes, when children go into anything with the belief that they will enjoy the process and learn from the experience, they tackle it with excitement and confidence. One tip I would like to elaborate on regarding how to encourage a growth mindset in kids is for teachers and parents to praise the process. Instead of focusing on the outcome, parents should make comments like, “I see that you have been trying so hard at…” or “You are becoming more confident at…” or “I like the way that you…” This helps children understand that the process is what counts and that they are commended for their good intentions. It also goes a long way in indirectly making the child aware of your unconditional love. Toby Fried Lakewood, NJ

Not Another Health Magazine A reader appreciates the depth Dear staff at The Wellspring, When I first came across your magazine, I must admit I that looked at it as a cynic. Although I appreciate healthy living, I don’t appreciate when people, especially young women, turn it into a life’s mission toward unhealthy weight loss. It bothers me when people are so obsessed with how they look that they forget there’s something more in this (and the Next!) world. So I must write to tell you how impressed I am with the magazine’s over-

all content. It has absolutely no shred of the secular “lets-be-healthy-so-wecan-look-like-culture”. From the profound messages in the editor’s letter to the beautiful Torah column and the snippets of Torah-related content that it contains throughout (even in the nutritionist’s column!), this magazine is indeed a most well-rounded health magazine written with the proper perspective on wellness. Much continued hatzlachah in your holy endeavor, G.L.

I Was Never Told Don’t keep it a secret [Issue #9: When Cancer Strikes] Dear Editor: When I finished reading Dr. Rosenshein’s article on telling children about illness, I had tears in my eyes. If only someone had showed that article to my father before he made the decision to keep his illness a secret! He passed away when I was in my early teens, and I struggled terribly afterward with not only the loss of the anchor in my life but also the anger at being kept out of the loop. I thought of the Tehillim I could have said, of the way I would have treated him after an exhausting day of treatment, and of the many things I would have told him. It was painfully hard for me to say goodbye. If only one parent takes the psychologist’s message to heart, or at least weighs the consequences of either telling or not, I know it will mean the world for those children affected by the illness of a loved one. Name withheld

invites readers to submit letters and comments via regular mail or email to info@ wellspringmagazine.com. Please include your name, address and phone number. We reserve the right to edit all submissions and will withhold your name upon request. We will honor requests for anonymity, but we cannot consider letters that arrive without contact information.

The next issue of The Wellspring will appear iy”H on December 21st.

Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 11

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Well Informed

Wellness Platform By Rabbi Hirsch Meisels

WHY FREE RADICALS HAVE FREE REIN IN YOUR BODY AND HOW TO STOP THEM FROM WREAKING HAVOC THERE

In the last two installments, we discussed how free radicals wreak havoc in the body, which is why the role of antioxidants is so crucial. In his kindness, Hashem created many antioxidant-rich foods whose consumption should create a perfectly healthy balance in the body. So why are free radicals a problem today? And why isn’t the consumption of foods rich in antioxidants enough to prevent an imbalance between them and free radicals? Because today we live in a different world. The influx of free radicals in our bodies is colossal, due to the high level of pollution and our exposure to chemicals and toxins. To combat the ever-increasing number of free radicals, we need to possess greater antioxidant power. Not only are we inundated with free radicals today, but because the foods we consume are virtually stripped of their nutritional content, their antioxidant levels are increasingly lower. The highly-processed, chemical-laden, refined, preserved “foods” we eat on a regular basis don’t have any resemblance to the original, natural plant, protein, seed, or grain that Hashem created for our nutritional benefit. The results of this equation are obvious: More free radicals plus less antioxidants equal total havoc. Of course, one obvious step we must take in order to replenish the antioxidant levels in the body is to consume fresh, natural foods. But even that is not enough. Only with the addition of nutritional supplements that provide a whopping number of antioxidants can we ensure that we are doing our maximum effort to ward off harmful free radicals. According to recent research, many diseases that are rampant today, especially in middle- aged and aging people, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, Alzheimer’s, and even cancer, are

closely associated with the presence of free radicals in the body. The free radicals enter the body and slowly, slowly cause great damage to the organs they latch onto. It’s a gradual process, and the results may emerge only after many years, or even decades. For every individual illness mentioned above, countless studies have pointed toward this unfortunate reality. However, due to space constraints, I will focus on only one of them.

Not only are we inundated with free radicals today, but because the foods we consume are virtually stripped of their nutritional content, their antioxidant levels are increasingly lower. Many people are not aware that LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, the one known as the “bad cholesterol,” cannot cause any harm to the body when it works on its own. It can’t block the arteries and it can’t cause a heart attack. So how does it actually end up causing such immense, even life-threatening damage? The answer leads us back to those pesky free radicals. Only if the cholesterol becomes oxidized, or simply put, damaged, can it cause trouble. It is not the amount

of cholesterol in the blood that causes trouble, but rather the amount of oxidized cholesterol. (While doctors routinely only check for the amount, they are not trained to use the test that already exists to specifically test the level of oxidization, which is the essential element here.) In an upcoming article on cholesterol, we will discuss why and how the oxidization occurs, but the only way to prevent this potentially hazardous process is through increasing antioxidants in the body. Even conditions as seemingly minor as fatigue and lethargy are linked to free radicals. When people age, they assume that they’re losing their strength because of “natural” reasons, but the truth is that this often occurs as a result of the body’s losing battle with the abundant free radicals that have made themselves too comfortable within it. Thus, whether a person is suffering from one of the above-mentioned conditions or not, the necessity of increasing antioxidants in the body is crucial. You will be amazed at the vast selection of antioxidant supplements that are available today. Maxi Health Research manufactures a full line of antioxidants to help combat various ailments, such as Maxi Co Q Formulas™, which specifically targets heart health. In addition, for a general boost to your antioxidant levels, I would also advise taking Pom Green™ or Maxi AntioX Supreme™, which is unique in that it contains 22 of the finest, most potent antioxidants available today. In this column, Rabbi Hirsch Meisels, a renowned expert on healthy living, delivers vital health information culled from his years of experience as the founder and director of FWD, Friends With Diabetes. The information was originally transcribed from his lectures on his hotline, Kol Beri’im.

Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 13

Well Informed

Well Acquainted By Joe Pira, NYS licensed optician

THE EXPERT’S VOICE TO INFORM YOUR CHOICE PROMOTING HEALTH, ONE ORGAN AT A TIME: A CLOSER LOOK AT YOUR EYESIGHT

A PROGRESSIVE LENS FOR EVERY EYE IT'S NOT ONE SIZE FITS ALL

Progressive lenses have several incredible advantages. In addition to creating a smooth transition between distant and close-up sights, they are also more aesthetically pleasing and age-defying. There is no reason why an eyeglasses wearer should have to complain that the floor looks like a rippled body of water to him, or that he has to turn his head to see sideways. That’s where progressive lenses come to the rescue. However, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s not only about the way you look. It’s, more importantly, about the way you see. A friend of mine recently went into an optical store to purchase a pair of glasses. “You need a progressive lens,” she was told. “It’ll cost you $300.” As a patient, she just nodded her head and went along with it. This transaction took place without any lifestyle profiling or without the patient being asked what she didn’t like about the lenses she was then wearing. Progressive lenses simply don’t work that way. Because they are so unique, they must also be custom-made to tailor to the wearer’s needs. There are over one thousand progressive multifocals on the market today, not including the multitude of copies. For this reason, every patient must become an educated consumer before being led into purchasing their pair. The first factor that must be considered when purchasing

progressive lenses is the wearer’s lifestyle and occupation. For someone who reads a lot, it will be important to ensure that when she reads the middle of the page the sides remain clear. If someone sits at the computer for many hours, he will want to make sure that his neck doesn’t hurt when he finally closes shop. And for the wearer who spends many hours on the road, the clarity of the road signs is crucial. W h e n a person

is in need of progressive lenses, I first like to ask some lifestyle questions. What do you do for a living? For how many hours a day do you use the computer? Do the lights bother you? Any hobbies I should know about? For people who work in specific fields, there is also a specific type of lens called the occupational lens, which is tailored specifically to occupations of different types. For instance, a computer operator would get something designed for that specific task, and a bus driver or computer programmer would need a different type of lens. Most of today’s progressive lenses are

created with specific users in mind. For those who spend more time looking at things from up close, like writers and architects, there’s one kind of lens. A carpenter needs another. And a real estate agent a third. Why shouldn’t a consumer know about the various options out there? When you buy a new car, you want the newest features. Why should things be different when it comes to improving your most important sense? There are also various levels of quality within the progressive lens selection. A higher quality lens will provide greater peripheral vision and clarity across the entire width of the lens, for instance. In addition, there are harder and softer designs that cater to specific eye types, making the adjustment to glasses easier and placing less strain on the eye. Because the selection is impressively sizable, the prices obviously range across the spectrum. But when you obtain a more pricey piece, you are undoubtedly obtaining greater quality. Know what’s important to you and make sure to understand your options before you make that decision. Currently practicing at The Lens Center in Brooklyn, NY, Joe Pira is a NYS ABO, NCLO, and FNAO certified licensed optician. In this column, he shares his knowledge culled from over three decades of experience in the eyewear field.

Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 15

Alluring, invigorating and refreshing. This cheerful collection of teas blends the coolness of Moroccan Nanaâ&#x201E;˘ leaves with the warmth of exotic herbs and spices. Treat yourself to a bouquet of enticing flavors and aromas inspired by Moroccan tradition. Pacify your body and refresh your soul.

Well Informed

Torah Wellspring By Rabbi Ezra Friedman

IT’S NOT ABOUT FOLLOWING LAWS OF NATURE IT‘S ABOUT FOLLOWING HASHEM‘S COMMAND

IN THE PAST MONTH, we had the merit to perform countless mitzvos, many of which were food-related. From feasting on Erev Yom Kippur to eating in the sukkah, we had myriad opportunities to connect to Hashem. However, often when life gets hectic, taking care of our health gets relegated to the back burner in our mind. Yes, we know that it’s important, but we simply can’t devote ourselves properly to this all-important mitzvah. Now that we’re back to routine, we once again have the opportunity to truly focus on the mitzvah of venishmartem me’od lenafshoseichem. In a beautiful letter, the Chazon Ish writes that if a person is stringent in the aspects of his life that lead to greater physical health, the work he invests in this endeavor is “beloved by Hashem Yisbarach.” A person who consumes nutritional supplements, eats healthful meals, refrains from unhealthy practices and food choices, and carves out time for physical activity and proper sleep is not doing mere physical work; he is doing work that is beloved by Hashem! “And fortunate is the one who distances himself from the desire to do otherwise,” continues the Chazon Ish. These are not the words of a health professor; these are the words of the gadol who was steeped in Torah and yiras Shamayim. He writes that a person has a natural inclination to disregard the body’s need for health. It’s easier and often more tempting to grab an unhealthy meal, to neglect physical activity, or to cut on sleep. Who wants to take vitamins? But, advises the Chazon Ish, one should do everything he can to prevail over this natural tendency. During the yamim tovim, we begged Hashem in every tefillah for a year of

good health. It’s the prayer that is always foremost on our lips. The Brisker Rav states that the greatest segulah for maintaining good health is to do our personal duty in order to attain it. “The mitzvah of venishmartem me’od is great enough,” he writes, “that if a Jew truly fulfills it, Hashem will reward him with good health.” A believing Jew might err by thinking that if he truly relies on Hashem as the Ultimate Healer, he has no need to take the steps necessary to maintain good health. However, Rav Mordechai Shlomo Berman, the Rosh Yeshiva of Ponovezh, teaches us otherwise. He once expressed that “as little as I understand with my limited knowledge, and from my great teachers, I can tell you that there is absolutely no contradiction between the hishtadlus that a person makes naturally in order to maintain his health and to heal his illnesses and his emunah and bitachon that Hashem will keep him healthy. On the contrary, the true path is for the person to do whatever he can to maintain his health. This does not in any way indicate a lack of bitachon.” How does this make sense? Doesn’t true reliance on Hashem translate into less dependence on our own actions? The Chazon Ish expounds on this topic, offering profound insight. He explains that the things a person calls “chukei hateva,” laws of nature, such as the fact that consuming unhealthy foods or a lack of sleep and solid nutrition lead to illness, are not really “nature.” Hashem’s will is merely cloaked in what we call “laws of nature.” There is no such thing as “nature.” In other words, if a person chooses to go against the “laws of nature” by engaging in unhealthy, unsafe activity, he is simply choosing to go against Hashem’s

will. Hashem purposely created a system in which consumption of sugar, for instance, leads to illness. When a person refrains from foods that are detrimental to his physical health, he is following Hashem’s instructions. Hashem created the body in a way that it requires certain nutrients in order to function properly. When a person invests the time and money to ensure that he has the vitamins and minerals that his body needs, he is not merely submitting to the laws of nature, he is doing the ratzon Hashem! This hishtadlus is not an addition to his bitachon; it is an extension of it. For this reason, instructs the Chazon Ish, we must do whatever it takes to fulfill Hashem’s command to preserve our health. A renowned doctor in Germany used to say often, “From the thousands of patients that I’ve treated in my career, there was one who stands out in my mind. He was the one patient who followed my every instruction to the utmost.” That one patient was the holy tzaddik Rav Lipskin of Russia. Indeed, when the Rav’s disciples once entered his room, they found him hunched over a book that detailed every kind of exercise and lifestyle change that he was required to execute. It was his mission to follow every word of his doctor’s command because he understood that this was his way of fulfilling Hashem’s ratzon. Hashem created the human being with incredible brilliance, says the Chazon Ish. He created a system in which we get tired after working hard or when missing sleep, and hungry after we haven’t eaten, to remind us to provide the body with the fuel it needs to serve Him fully. A gezunten winter! Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 17

Well Informed

Health Tidbits in the News By Liba Solomon, CNWC

IS IT GLUTEN OR WHEAT? The answer may surprise you. You’ve probably heard that gluten in wheat is what causes the trouble for some. According to scientists at United European Gastroenterology, consuming a family of proteins found in the wheat itself can lead to a host of chronic health conditions. The research turns the focus away from gluten, typically linked to various digestive problems, to a family of proteins called amylasetrypsin inhibitors, or ATIs. According to scientists involved in the study, the proteins trigger inflammation associated with various health conditions including asthma, arthritis, and multiple-sclerosis. "As well as contributing to the development of bowel-related inflammatory conditions, we believe that ATIs can promote inflammation of other immune-related chronic conditions outside of the bowel," lead researcher Detlef Schuppan explained in a press release. Schuppan went on to say the findings widen the conventional understanding of the causes of inflammation. "Rather than non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, which implies that gluten solitarily causes the inflammation, a more precise name for the disease should be considered," he said. So is gluten-free the solution? Perhaps opting for wheat-free is the answer after all.

IS SODA SAFE? Depends on who paid for the study Researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, looked at studies of soft drink consumption and its relationship to obesity and diabetes published between 2001 and 2016. They found about 60 studies that were fairly rigorous in their methodology. When the studies were led by independent researchers, they showed a clear link between soda consumption and obesity or metabolic disease. But notably, 26 of the studies reported no link between sugary soft drinks and poor health. What was different about the studies that found no connection to health problems? They were all carried out by researchers with financial ties to the beverage industry. The findings, which were recently published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, found that soft drinks are indeed associated with diabetes and obesity, but when the studies were performed by researchers who were paid by companies like Coca-Cola, the world’s largest sugary drink producer, the results were suddenly different. So is soda a healthy beverage? Despite the millions of dollars that the industry has invested in paying researchers and nutritionists to agree, the answer remains a resounding “no.”

18 The Wellspring | November 2016

SLEEP FOR WEIGHT LOSS Recent research reveals the connection Reduced sleep is one of the most common health risks in today’s society. Sleep deprivation is terrible for your mood and your ability to think clearly. A new study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that it has another drawback: it may cause people to consume more calories during the day. The study combined the results of 11 clinical trials and a total of 172 participants whose sleep schedules and calorie intake were monitored and compared. The researchers found that participants who slept less, consumed an average of 385 more calories, and their food choices leaned toward foods with higher fat and lower protein content. How does sleep deprivation link to less nutritious food choices? A previous small study in 26 adults found that partial sleep deprivation resulted in greater activation of areas in the brain associated with reward when people were exposed to food. Other possible explanations include a disruption of the internal body clock affecting the body’s regulation of leptin (the “satiety” hormone) and ghrelin (the “hunger” hormone). “There may be some truth to early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy and wise,” says lead author of the study Dr. Gerda Pot. “If longterm sleep deprivation continues to result in an increased calorie intake of this magnitude, it may contribute to weight gain.

ALLERGIC TO PEANUTS? Patch holds promise for treating the allergy An innovative new study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology has found that a skin patch that delivers small amounts of peanut protein may help treat children and young adults with peanut allergy. In the study conducted by Dr. Marshall Plaut, the chief of the food allergy, atopic dermatitis, and allergic mechanisms section at the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, this new approach looks promising. The research team worked with 74 children and young adults, aged 4 to 25, who are allergic to peanuts. The volunteers were randomly assigned to wear either a high-dose patch (250 micrograms), a low-dose patch (100 micrograms), or a placebo patch. Participants put a new patch on daily, sticking it to their arm or between their shoulder blades. At the oneyear mark, the researchers evaluated whether the participants were able to consume at least 10 times more peanut protein than they could at the study start, under supervision during the allergy challenge. Forty-six percent of the low-dose group and 48 percent of the high-dose group could do that, but only 12 percent of those on the placebo patch could. Children aged 4 to 11 had the best response. The patch had less effect on those aged 12 and older, the study authors said. The patch is based on the same concept as other antiallergy treatments, aiming to engage the immune system to train the body to tolerate small amounts of the protein. Perhaps that’s why the Bamba diet is so effective in warding off peanut allergies…

Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 19

Well Informed

Health Tidbits in the News By Liba Solomon, CNWC

THIS WILL MAKE YOU GO TO THE GYM Competition may be the best motivator According to the National Center for Health Statistics, 69% of Americans age 18–24 failed to meet the federal guidelines for physical activity in 2014. To remedy the situation, researchers and governments have tried to uncover key motivators for people to maintain a schedule of physical activity, as well as costeffective strategies to increase motivation. In a study led by Dr. Jamie Zhang and published in Preventive Medicine Reports, 790 graduate students who signed up for an 11-week exercise program called “PennShape” were monitored for their attendance. While some students were placed in support groups, where members cheered each other on to attend classes, other subjects were placed in competition groups, where one group competed against the other to clock in more hours at the gym. Which group earned more points for attendance? The competition group, of course. Competition is healthy, indeed. Race your friend to make it happen.

GOLDEN PAGE Wipe Away the Colds Yeast is not only good for beautiful challah The cold season has returned once again! Especially in older adults, a compromised immune system results in a lousy winter. There is no better time to give the body’s shield unit a boost with EpiCor®, a yeast fermentate that has undergone seven human clinical trials to establish its efficacy in supporting a strong, healthy immune system, in balancing and strengthening immune response, and in reducing flu symptoms, respiratory tract infections, allergy symptoms, and inflammatory response. One of the studies, published in 2014 in The Open Nutrition Journal, researchers found that consumption of a highmetabolite immunogen from yeast culture, such as EpiCor®, plays a beneficial role in immune protection. If you’re concerned about the idea of ingesting yeast, rest assured that its capsule form does not allow for an unpleasant aftertaste. It’s your opportunity to obtain antioxidants, protein, fiber, vitamins, beta-glucans, and amino acids. And EpiCor® also acts as a probiotic to nourish the healthy bacteria in the gut. Maxi Health’s Immune Power™ capsules are not only loaded with EpicCor®; the addition of olive leaf extract, a great source of oleuropein (a powerful antioxidant), supplies the body with phenols and lignans, which also help boost the immune system.

The Wellspring | November 2016 20

Stock up! Thought prunes are just a great-tasting fruit that work wonders for constipation. Here’s another incredible benefit that researchers have recently discovered. A study published in Osteoperosis (2016) reveals that the effects of prunes on bone density are substantial. This recent clinical trial found that middle-aged women who consumed 100 grams of prunes per day (roughly two servings of 10-12 prunes) had improved mineral density and decreased rate of bone turnover compared to the control group. With more than 2.6 million children in the emergency room every year for bone injuries, taking action to strengthen the bones is critical. If your bone health is important to you, a trip to the produce store may be just what the doctor ordered.

A LOOK AT UNPAID SICK LEAVE A benefit or drawback for the employer? Every week, about 1.5 million Americans without paid sick leave go to work despite feeling ill. At least half of employees at restaurants and hospitals—two settings where disease is easily spread—got to work when they have the cold or the flu, according to a recent poll (Harvard School of Public Health, 2016). The reason? It’s not because they love their work that much; it’s because they can’t afford to stay home. Though many other industrialized countries already require employers to offer paid sick leave to all employees, the United States does not. And though this may seem like a plus to U.S. employers, in the long run, it may be causing more harm than good. Not only does the risk of spreading disease increase when sick employees show up, but the customers may suffer too. And, of course, one can only imagine how productive a coughing, sneezing employee will be. Perhaps the recent poll results will encourage much-needed change in the system.

MISCONCEPTION: Drinking milk will make your cold worse.

THE TRUTH: Milk fortified with vitamin D can boost your immune system to fight that cold.

No solid research has been found to support the claim that milk intake makes a person produce more mucus. In fact, when Australian researchers went so far as to collect and weigh the nasal secretions of 60 volunteers inoculated with the common-cold virus, they found no association between milk intake and mucus production. So why does the misconception enjoy such popularity? Scientists think that drinking milk may remind some people of the consistency of mucus or may coat their throat in a way that makes them think they’re feeling more phlegm. Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 21

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease.

PRUNES TO PROTECT YOUR BONES

Well Informed

Figures By Ruchy Reese

days

CORTISONE STEROIDS STATS of orally administered cortisone is all it takes for adrenal suppression to begin.

1,000s

of people

suffer from recurring or spreading rashes, unaware that they may be addicted to cortisone products.

million americans

have eczema, most of whom are prescribed various forms of cortisone.

In a recent study, patients who received a cortisone injection after an injury had a

63% higher chance

for injury relapse than those who allowed their body to heal naturally.

The topical steroid market produces over

$2 billion worth of products per year.

Even if only 20% of Americans with eczema are addicted to cortisone, that is

7 million people. â&#x20AC;&#x201A; The Wellspring | November 2016 22

1,000s of people have recovered from steroid addiction.

Steroid addiction occurs within

4-8 weeks

of use, though users have reported addiction with only 2 weeks of use.

Since the 1970s, skin rashes diagnosed as eczema have nearly

tripled Is it eczema or topical steroid addiction?

10â&#x20AC;&#x201C;20% of infants

suffer from eczema, many of whom become addicted to cortisone products.

1-4

years

It usually takes between

to heal from steroid-induced damage. Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspringâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; 23

Well Informed

Wealth of Health By Sarah Weinberger

CONFERENCE WITH: COMPANY NAME: Healthy Joy Bakes BUSINESS OWNER: Isaac Sander PRODUCT: Low-carb Omega Power Bread SINCE: 2011 LOCATION: Brooklyn MOTTO: Eat your bread and lose weight too

Isaac has been in the bakery business for almost a decade. His grandfather founded and has been running Sander’s Bakery, a popular bake shop in Williamsburg since 1959. As the manager of the bakery, Isaac often received requests for healthier versions of the store’s famous baked goods. The team got to work creating spelt bread and sugar-free cookies (made with xylitol), eventually launching a full line of healthy products. When Isaac perceived the demand for low-carb bread, he got to work on creating the perfect product for his clients and beyond. Today, his unique Omega Power Bread, made primarily of flaxseed, enjoys popularity throughout the U.S.

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO CREATE A BREAD PARTICULARLY MADE OF FLAXSEED? HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM SPELT OR ANY OTHER GLUTEN-FREE BREAD? We had the diabetics in mind. Although spelt may be easier to digest than wheat, which is why many people prefer it over rye or whole-wheat bread, it’s still high in carbs. Flaxseed, on the other hand, is one of the most low-carb substances around. And because it’s easier to digest, this bread is optimal for weight loss.

DID YOU COME UP WITH THE RECIPE ON YOUR OWN? I did a lot of research in the field of nutrition to come up with a bread that would be both low-carb and easily digestible. But because of flaxseed’s unique texture and lack of gluten, it’s almost impossible to create a dough from it. That’s when I recruited a professional baker for his assistance in The Wellspring | November 2016 24

the development process. We wanted to make sure that we’re getting the texture of real bread as well as a good taste while maintaining the bread’s optimal healthy qualities.

WHICH PART OF THE DEVELOPMENT PROCESS WERE YOU MOST INVOLVED IN? I took the helm at the end of the process, after the perfect recipe was achieved. I experimented on how to work with the dough after it’s mixed and ready, the amount of dough to allot for each loaf, the proofing, baking temperature, and things like that. The entire process is completely different from baking regular bread. I was also involved in the package design, which came out beautiful and appealing.

HOW MANY CALORIES DOES EVERY SLICE OF OMEGA POWER BREAD CONTAIN? 78

HOW MANY GRAMS OF CARBOHYDRATES? Five, versus between 20–30 carbs in a regular slice. Nutritionists consider it 1 net carb because the 4 grams of fiber are subtracted from the carb total.

HOW DID YOUR BUSINESS GROW FROM A LOCAL STORE TO A NATIONAL DISTRIBUTOR? When I first started out, I only sold the bread in our bakery and I advertised it on Rabbi Meisels’ hotline, Friends with Diabetes. As soon as word got out that we’d finally created a truly carb-free kosher bread, I started getting calls from

all over the world. Health food stores called me that people were looking for the bread.

WHAT’S THE MARKET PRICE FOR A LOAF OF BREAD? In the range of $10, depending on where it’s purchased. The ingredients are very expensive.

HOW OFTEN DO YOU BAKE THIS BREAD? Several times per week. If we know it’ll take two-three days for a customer to receive the order, we freeze it. In stores other than our own, it’s also sold frozen. We’re currently looking into vacuum packing as a new means to keep it fresh for longer. One mashgiach at CRC, the kashrus organization that certifies our bread, used to take along 10–15 loafs of bread when he travelled overseas. He lived on this bread. For people like him, and the rest of our clientele, we’re researching ways to keep the bread fresh in the most ideal form.

she actually consumes every product she reviews and then measures her blood sugar level as a means to establish its truly low-carb properties. We sent her one loaf of our bread and she confirmed that it did not raise her sugar levels even slightly. The proof is in the bread!

DID YOU RECEIVE ANY RECOMMENDATIONS FROM QUALIFIED PRACTITIONERS? One endocrinologist in Flatbush, Dr. Alexander Perkelvald, actually sells the bread in his office because he wants to make sure that his patients have it on hand. Several years ago, he saw it advertised and decided to give it a try. When he confirmed its lowcarb properties, he would buy the bread at Pomegranate to show to his patients. Then he reached out to me. In the beginning, I provided him with brochures and single sample packs. After a while, though, he decided that because he wasn’t sure if his patients were actually going out to get it, he wanted to sell it right there, in his office. One doctor, Dr. Keith Berkowitz in Manhattan, used to work for Dr. Atkins. He has his own practice today, called The Center for Balanced Health. Several well-known nutritionists in the general world, including Tanya Zuckerbrot of Manhattan who charges a minimum of $10,000 for her advice, highly recommends our bread to her clients. Her premise is that foods that are high in fiber are crucial for weight loss and she believes that our bread is one food that falls into that category.

We sent her one loaf of flaxseed bread and she confirmed that it did not raise her sugar levels even slightly. The proof is in the bread!

IS THE VERSION YOU’RE SELLING TODAY THE SAME AS THE VERY FIRST LOAF YOU SOLD? Once the bread hit the market, we didn’t change anything. But it took us over one year to finally come up with the perfect recipe. We did extensive tweaking beforehand.

IS HEALTHY JOY BAKES THE ONLY COMPANY THAT MANUFACTURES BREAD MADE FROM 100% FLAXSEED? I would say that 85% of its content is flaxseeds. This gives the bread an incredibly high protein content, as well as a dosage of omega-3 fatty acids that is 17 times higher than the amount you’d receive from salmon, by weight. The additional 15% is made up of rye, which loads every slice with fiber, and some wheat gluten to achieve the bread consistency.

IS THERE ANY BREAD ON THE GENERAL MARKET THAT OFFERS THE SAME BENEFIT? There was one company out there, but they were disproved by a woman who runs a website that exposes “low-carb” scams. As a diabetic,

Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 25

Well Informed

Wealth of Health By Sarah Weinberger

In fact,when I received her most recent weekly newsletter, I was humbled and pleased to see that she was covering the benefits the Healthy Joy Bakes' Omega Power Bread, recommending it to her clients as a “high-fiber bread [that] should be the newest addition to your low-carb squad. We don’t condone eating bread often, but [do] a quick review of the facts for this product and you’ll see why.” She continues to compare Omega Power Bread to another “healthy” bread, highlighting the important differences, such as that it contains 9 times the amount of net fiber as the other one and that the whopping 9 grams of protein help slow digestion and keep the person feeling full for longer. We were also recommended in a book called The New Atkins. We didn’t even know that our bread was listed there until we got an order from a customer in Florida. We asked her how she heard about us and she led us to the book. The author somehow found out about the bread and she approved it independently.

her toast for breakfast. She admitted that it seems silly not to be able to give up a few slices of bread, but we understand that. She wrote how happy she was to have discovered this product and that she can actually have a “proper” breakfast every morning.

HAVE YOU RECEIVED NEGATIVE FEEDBACK? I did get some complaints about the taste of the bread. While most people enjoy the welcome nutritious addition to their diet, it obviously does not taste like regular bread, but we’ve tried our best to produce the ideal healthy product.

We‘re grateful to be able to bring a simchas Shabbos and Yom Tov into our fellow Jews‘ homes.

DID YOU REACH OUT TO THE AUTHOR? I tried to get through but nothing ever panned out. I once got an email from someone in London to ask how she can get the bread because her doctor recommended it. “He says that this is the only bread I can eat,” she wrote.

DO YOU SHIP OVERSEAS? No. It’s difficult to ship perishables overseas and we want to ensure that our bread is of the highest quality.

DO YOU BAKE ANY OTHER LOWCARB PRODUCTS?

The flaxseed bread is shehakol, so it can’t be used on Shabbos. We’ve recently started to create challos by adding some spelt flour and braiding the dough. Before the Yom Tov season, people stocked up with 30–40 challos so they’d have for every seudah. We’re currently working on the packaging, so it’s only for sale in the store. I once sent a round challah to Rabbi Meisels before Rosh Hashanah and the picture circulated, garnering impressive positive feedback. We’re grateful to be able to bring a simchas Shabbos and Yom Tov into our fellow Jews’ homes. We’ve attempted to create cookies and rugelach but it’s hard to work with the dough and achieve great taste. We obviously don’t want to compromise on health in order to create a tasteful product.

WHAT KIND OF FEEDBACK HAVE YOU BEEN RECEIVING FROM YOUR CUSTOMERS? Many diabetics have thanked us for finally creating the bread they’ve been waiting for. Bread is a staple for most people and it’s hard to live without it. Once our bread came onto the market, they were able to have their toast again without the consequences of elevated sugar levels. One woman sent us a letter saying that her biggest fear of following the Atkins diet was not having

This column features a profile of a business owner who manufactures or distributes a service or product that promotes health and wellness. To be interviewed, please contact The Wellspring. The Wellspring does not endorse any product featured in this column. The Wellspring | November 2016 26

Well Informed

Dedicated to Health By Shiffy Friedman

RCCS IN A NUTSHELL An organization that assists both cancer patients and cases where cancer is suspected. RCCS cuts through the red tape and will move any barrier to ensure the best medical care possible. The services include insurance (premium payments), expediting appointments, and finding and reaching out to the top doctors in the field on behalf of the patient. RCCS provides physical, emotional, and financial aid to every patient who reaches out to them.

10 QUESTIONS FOR

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO LAUNCH YOUR ORGANIZATION?

Twenty years ago, a first cousin and close friend of mine was in a car accident near Central Park. When he was taken to the hospital and examined, it was revealed that a brain tumor had caused him to lose control. As soon as I heard what had happened, I rushed to the hospital to see how I could be of help. My cousin had an issue with his insurance coverage at the time, so I committed to foot the bill. Thanks to the coverage, he got hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of treatment during that period. A few weeks later, I met a rav who lived in my building. He confided that his wife had been diagnosed with cancer and asked if I could cover the insurance for her. I did not turn him down. Later, a melamed whose wife had been diagnosed approached me as well. That winter, I took one of these patients to Palm Springs, California. As we were sitting together there, we thought together how beneficial it would be for the community if we would establish an organization that would help cancer patients and their families. We sat down with the previous Bobover Rebbe, Reb Shlomo zt”l, right then and there, and received his total support and brachos. As soon as we returned to New York, we arranged a gathering of rabbanim from every kehillah. We’ve been on the map for 20 years now.

RABBI HERSHEL KOHN FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT OF RCCS, ROFEH CHOLIM CANCER SOCIETY

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT ROLE IN RCCS?

As the founder and president, my job is to make sure that every department is running smoothly. By now, baruch Hashem, we have an excellent staff of dedicated, efficient people who are truly in this to help our fellow Yidden. We have a committed board of directors, including a financial committee, application committee, and of course, a patient service department. I also make sure that the budget is under control by delivering speeches around the world, in addition to our regular functions. My son, Eli, is my assistant nowadays and he’s the one who’s busy with the day-to-day operations of the organization, and he knows he can always count on me.

WHAT WAS ONE GREAT CHALLENGE YOU FACED WHILE RUNNING THE ORGANIZATION?

About five years ago, Yidden from Eretz Yisrael started coming to ask me for help. Unfortunately, the cases increased and they kept coming and coming. We tried as much as possible to help them from

here, but it was very difficult with insurance for them as noncitizens. I would not let the challenge deter me from this great mitzvah, though. We were Baruch Hashem successful in setting up a system in Eretz Yisrael so the patients would be able to get the best care there. We also connected the Israeli doctors with the experts that we are in touch with in America so they can consult with each other regarding treatment options for every patient. This endeavor alone requires a budget of a few million dollars, but thanks to this development, the Yidden in Eretz Yisrael can be helped in the same way the Yidden in America are helped. The Wellspring | November 2016 28

CAN YOU SHARE A STORY THAT STANDS OUT IN YOUR MIND?

CAN YOU SHARE A POSITIVE STORY THAT YOU’VE RECENTLY EXPERIENCED?

I was happy to meet with a patient from FlatOf course we have positive stories to share! Our patients have an bush this summer, a rav and a father of six in his 85–90% recovery rate, Baruch Hashem. At a dinner in Lakewood low 30s who came to spend some quiet time in this past Motzaei Shabbos, someone came over to me and reminded Upstate New York. He had completed treatment me of when his son was a young child in a deteriorating situation. for skin cancer and was finally pronounced clean. Then he showed me a recent photo of his son at his bar mitzvah, He called me in tears on Chol Hamoed Succos gezunt and shtark. That’s what I want to see! to tell me that he wasn’t feeling well and that the On a recent trip to Eretz Yisrael, the RCCS staff met a two-year-old doctors were suspecting something bad. This boy who only six months ago was in desperate need for a liver transweek, the doctors confirmed that the tumor had plant, it was the only way to save his life. We had to fight a complispread much more rapidly than it did before. cated battle with the kupat cholim until he got the care he needed. When I spoke to him, the doctor was And now we met the father and his healthy child, baruch Hashem. with him. He said to me, “I don’t think WHAT WAS THE MOST INTERESTING there’s anything that we can do.” At the same time, this young man’s REQUEST YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED ON BEwife complained of a women’s health HALF OF A PATIENT? problem. When she accompanied her We once had a patient from Eretz Yisrael, a 50-year-old mother husband to the oncologist, she aired her of 16 kids, including three sets of twins. After she felt something on her body, concerns to him and he examined her. the doctors unfortunately found cancer in a very late stage. They tried everyThe doctor told me, not them, that she thing in the book but nothing worked. They gave up. has stage 4 cancer. I discussed the case with a prominent doctor in America who said that if I don’t know if I ever had such a we bring the patient to the U.S. he might be able to help her with a different heartbreaking case. In the same visit, protocol. Because insurance was not paying enough, he requested $50,000 both husband and wife were diagnosed for the procedure. with the worst. If there’s anything that Usually, we pay monthly payments. As of this month, for instance, we’re touched me this week, it’s this. paying insurance for hundreds of patients. But $50,000 at once is big. I was in Yerushalayim at the time so I decided to consult with Rav Chaim Kanievsky regarding the case. Was I allowed to drain our supply of $50,000 for one WHAT DO YOU woman, on the tiny percent chance that this procedure would bring about her WISH PEOPLE recovery? He thought and thought and he thought some more. Then he said to me, “It’s a very tough question. I think you should go ask my father-in-law. WOULD KNOW He’ll be able to give you a clear answer.” ABOUT CANCER? I headed straight back to Yerushalayim, to Rav Elyashiv’s house. After I reEarly detection is crucial. lated my dilemma, he asked me, “Where do you live?” I said I live in WilliamsIt can and has saved lives. burg. “How much would one spend for a Yid in Williamsburg?” he asked me in Yiddish. I did not answer. “Even if there’s a very small chance that this will save her life,” he concluded, “you WHAT’S THE BEST PART OF YOUR must do whatever you can to help her.” We paid that $50,000. WORK? THE TOUGHEST?

6 8

The many seudos hoda’ah we attend, kein yirbu. The hardest part is when Mr. Zishe Lowy, the director of patient services, gives me a weekly report of the new patients. It’s tough on a minute-by-minute basis. I wish my phone wouldn’t ring.

WHAT WAS THE BEST COMPLIMENT YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED?

How professional our team is, how the entire patients service department treats patients with such care and sensitivity. When I see how the patients consider us a part of their family, and they invite us to simchos many years after the patient has recovered, I know we’re doing something right. To me, that’s the most important thing.

HOW DO YOU MANAGE THE STRESS THAT COMES ALONG WITH YOUR TAXING WORK?

I don’t have an answer to that question. I’m connected to the organization 24/7 and the stories I hear give me real mental and emotional stress. It’s simply unbearable. (Cries.) If I hear of 30 new cases, nine in Eretz Yisrael, and 21 in America, in one week, need I say more? Sometimes, when I can’t handle it anymore, I ask my wife to take my personal calls and make sure that the patients are referred to the right department. Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 29

Well Informed

Naturally Well By Mindy Lewis

Joint Effort Boosting Your Joint Health

The human body operates on an incredible system. The intricate details of every organ’s operation are breathtaking. In addition to maintaining optimal health for the vital organs, it is crucial to boost the health of the body’s frame—its bones and joints. When the joints are inflamed, dry, or stiff, keeping active becomes a chore and a person’s quality of life is greatly reduced. Here’s how to get them, and keep them, in good shape. What Is Glucosamine? For decades, glucosamine has been shown in clinical studies to support healthy cartilage and joint function. In fact, it is one of the most studied supplements in the field of nutrition. As a component of cartilage, glucosamine is key in joint function and repair. Our bodies produce a certain amount, but as we grow older, we lose the capacity to make enough. This leads to drying of the cartilage in areas such as the knees, hips, and hands, which in turn causes the cartilage to harden, resulting in joint discomfort and stiffness. In a 2001 Belgian study, 212 people with osteoarthritis who were followed for three years received either a placebo or an oral glucosamine supplement, and were evaluated using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities’ Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC).The study showed that patients taking glucosamine had modest pain reduction (11.7%) compared with the baseline, and reduced joint-space narrowing compared to the subjects who took the placebo.

Omega-3 Joint Formula™: Joint Lubricant Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids that support mobility and ward off inflammation. As always, Maxi Health combines this miraculous nutrient with several other joint supporters to give you an optimal means toward joint health. Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the joints, where it acts to lubricate and cushion against repeated physical impacts. Because it forms a major component of cartilage and soft tissue, it is widely used to promote joint health. It is a large molecule, therefore it is not usually well absorbed by the body. But a 2007 study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology has shown that when combined with phospholipids like those found in fish oil, it has been shown to reach significantly higher levels in the bloodstream than in a stand-alone form. Glucosamine sulfate, another vital ingredient, supports bone and cartilage nutrition. Bromelain is an enzyme derived from pineapple, which reduces swelling and pain and supports healing. And boswellia, an additional ingredient, is the purified gum made from the resin of the boswellia tree which supports anti-inflammation.

Super Glucosamine Complex™ Research also suggests that glucosamine may slow joint damage. A 2008 retrospective study of nearly 300 patients found that those using glucosamine underwent half as many joint replacement surgeries as those on a placebo. Because glucosamine is generally derived from nonkosher sources, attaining its wondrous benefits is not simple for the kosher consumer. Maxi Health Super Glucosamine Complex™, however, is a strictly kosher joint formula with glucosamine. With the addition of MSM, bromelain, and potassium, which are research-proven nutrients that ward off joint pain and inflammation, it’s the perfect solution to the aching joints that could impair the quality of life.

Boswellia: Reducing Joint Inflammation Boswellia is particularly helpful in decreasing inflammation related to aging bones and muscles, making Anti-Flame™ especially beneficial to the elderly population. A 2011 article in the Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences reveals that this miracle herb, which has been used in medicines since time immemorial, works to reduce inflammation through a unique mechanism. It acts to modulate the pro-inflammatory enzyme 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), the first enzyme released in the cytokine metabolic pathway.This pathway creates leukotrienes, which are strong inflammatory substances thought to influence many inflammatory processes, including rheumatoid arthritis and asthma. The immune modulation reduces the amount of chemicals that cause inflammation, as well as ameliorating the symptoms of inflammation. The Wellspring | November 2016 30

Anti-Flame™’s main ingredient, curcumin, promotes the body’s response to inflammation by inhibiting key inflammatory factors such as NF-kB, a protein molecule that acts like an “on-switch” in genes that govern the body’s pro-inflammatory responses. The Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences cites several studies that reveal that curcumin has the ability to exert powerful inhibitory effects on NF-kB activation. Its extract promotes immune system health by inhibiting histamine release from mast cells. Curcumin is a naturally occurring chemical compound found in the spice turmeric. The turmeric used in AntiFlame™ is called turmeric BCM-95® and is very different than the standard turmeric used in turmeric capsules. The 100% pure extract of turmeric found in BCM-95® derives its powerful health-promoting benefits from the colorful and aromatic qualities of this Indian spice. BCM-95® has been studied in many animal models and in human clinical studies for its powerful support to a healthy inflammatory response, as well as its antioxidant, mood-regulating, cognitive, and other health benefits. The “95” in the BCM-95® trademark entails the patented composition of this potent curcumin-essential oil complex (CEC) mixture: 86% curcuminoids, plus 7–9% essential oils. In a study published in the British Journal of Nutrition in 2011, researcher Leray found that BCM-95® offers anti-inflammatory benefits to obese cats. Maxi Collagen H.A.™ to Keep Skin and Joints Elastic This excellent supplement is a joint and skin formula that combines collagen with hyaluronic acid. Collagen is a structural protein found in skin, bones, and connective tissue (ligaments, cartilage, and muscles). It’s the substance to thank for everything elastic. Clinical studies on women demonstrated an average 20% reduction in eye wrinkle volume in just eight weeks, an 18% increase in elastin, and a 7% increase in skin elasticity - an effect even more pronounced in women over 50 (Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2014). Hyaluronic acid (see above), another vital ingredient, occurs naturally in the skin, eye, and joints. Its claim to fame is its ability to lubricate and retain moisture in these vital organs. Moisture is essential for healthy, youthful-looking skin and smooth movement in the joints.

Anti-Flame™: Pain Relief Anti-Flame™ is an invaluable supplement. Made from a unique combination of herbs, it aids the body in dealing with inflammation. Because inflammation is generally painful, the nutrients contained in AntiFlame™ are geared to provide pain relief. In addition to the main ingredient, curcumin, boswellia, bromelain, and MSM, it provides the anti-inflammatory and pain relieving effects the body needs.

Weight Loss for Joint Health Your size affects some of the strain on your hips, knees, and back. Even just a bit of weight loss can help ease the pain. Every pound you shed takes four pounds of pressure off the knees. That’s something!

The Golden Rule Here’s something important you ought to know about joint health: the more you move, the less stiffness you’ll experience. Whether you’re reading or working, change positions often. Take breaks from your desk or chair and get active.

Is Stretching Good for Your Joints? You’re probably thinking, “Of course!” but it depends how you do it. Flexibility helps you move faster, so try to stretch daily or at least three times a week. But don’t do it when your muscles are cold. Do a light warm-up first, like walking for ten minutes, to loosen the joints, ligaments, and tendons around the muscle. And choose exercises that don’t pound your joints, like walking, swimming, or strength training. Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 31

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease.

Curcumin’s Role in Joint Pain Relief

Living Well

Ask the Nutritionist By Shani Taub, CDC

Ageless Does Endeavor age play a role in weight loss capacity?

I would love for you to feature an article for people who are over the age of 60 and are trying to lose weight. The excellent pointers you’ve been providing for younger people simply don’t work for my age group. Is it possible for me to lose weight despite my status as a golden-ager? Goldie D.

Shani answers:

Thank you for reaching out. I commend you for your desire to lose weight, which inevitably leads to a healthy lifestyle. As much as it’s important for people at every age to maintain good health, making that hishtadlus at your time in life is particularly crucial for disease prevention and true quality of life. As we age, we’re at a greater risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and other serious conditions. By staying healthy and trim, you will hopefully be blessed to enjoy these golden years without constant doctor’s visits and fatigue. In my experience, I’ve found that some women in the over-60 age range lose faster than women at 30. It is true that a person’s metabolism slows down and muscle loss oc-

The Wellspring | November 2016 32

curs over time, but this does not mean that an older person can’t lose weight. Every person is an individual and therefore every person, age notwithstanding, needs her own plan in order to achieve weight loss. What works for one bubby may not necessarily work for one energetic teen. It’s as simple as that. Some people can’t have carbs later in the day and some can’t tolerate whole wheat at all. It all depends on the person, but age is definitely not the main player here. Everyone, with no exception, can lose weight. Of course, as a person ages, there may be external factors that impede weight loss, such as decreased physical activity. But, there are plusses at your stage, as well. First, you are able to cook “adult” foods for every meal. There are no picky eaters around who put up a fuss when you bring a plate of broccoli to the table. You also probably have more time to devote yourself to your healthy eating plan, to shop for the

right foods and prepare them the way you prefer. And the goodies you’re buying for the grandkids can be those you wouldn’t touch, like lollipops and sour chews. No teens around to whine, “Where’s the chocolate?” So while weight loss may be tougher at your stage, it is possible. Work with a customized plan to see the results you’re aiming for. Unintentional Weight Loss Although healthy weight loss is a positive goal for anyone, especially women in the above-middle-age bracket, beware of unintentional weight loss in that stage. Unintentional weight loss (more than a 5% reduction of weight within six to 12 months) occurs in 15% to 20% of older adults. This can lead to functional decline in activities of daily living, increased risk of hip fracture, and increased mortality, G-d forbid. It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the scale.

PRODUCTIVITY IS EVERYTHING Whether you’re twenty, forty, or seventy, one great impediment to weight loss is lack of productivity. Once women are not engaged in childrearing, they may find that they have excess time on their hands. In order to maintain a productive, structured lifestyle, it is crucial for women in this age bracket to be proactive. If employment is not an option and family obligations are not routine (such as watching the grandkids on a steady basis), volunteering is an excellent way of leading a fulfilling, active life. For optimal weight loss results, take a brisk walk with a friend every morning, or join a water aerobics class at the local pool. The best recipe for failure is sitting home with time on your hands, and this is true for people of all ages.

HOW’S YOUR ATTITUDE? If the phrase that’s running through your mind all day is “Gaining weight is part of the aging process,” or “Everyone my age is overweight,” it’s time for a new mantra. As long as a person has a mindset that prevents weight loss (“I have ten kids, after all,” or “I’ll anyway never be thin”), she will become a self-fulfilled prophecy. Too often, what limits us from achieving our weight loss goals is psychological. Tell yourself that you can do this, surround yourself with peers who have, and you will get there.

Please send your questions to the nutritionist to nutrition@wellspringmagazine.com. Shani Taub, CDC, has been practicing as a certified nutritionist in Lakewood for almost a decade, meeting with clients in person and on the phone. She also owns the highly popular Shani Taub food line, which carries healthy, approved, premeasured foods and delicacies sold at supermarkets and restaurants.

Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 33

Living Well

In Good Shape By Syma Kranz, PFC

Build Up Your Strength How to weight-train right A new season means new commitments. How are yours coming along? Hitting the gym or starting a steady exercise routine is obviously the first step in the fitness arena. But if regular gym visits are getting too routine for you, how about taking on strength training? Hundreds of research studies show that weight lifting has benefits that range from weight loss and disease prevention to improved heart health, blood sugar control, balance, and more. However, even if you know the upsides of this form of exercise, it can be challenging to stick to a weight-training regimen if you’re new at it. Here’s how to do it right when you’re starting out so you’ll avoid the most common pitfalls and make the most of your new routine. Give it time. Don’t make any decisions about whether or not to stick with it in the first few weeks. It’s important for those who are new to weight-lifting and dealing with the fatigue, soreness, and doubt that often come with this new workout to remember that it’ll start to feel easier over time. With each training session, you will be able to increase the mind-body connection, which ultimately leads to more stability and coordination. The lifts will eventually feel more natural, and you’ll also start to feel more confident in your form. If after a few sessions you’re still feeling intimidated, consider hiring a personal trainer, who will help you master the fundamentals so you can do the moves easily on your own.

It’s not all about being sore. Soreness isn’t the only way to gauge effectiveness. Many beginners often measure the effectiveness of their workouts by how sore they are. But soreness is an indicator of muscle damage, which is just one of the mechanisms—and probably the least important one—of trying to build muscle. Some soreness is good, of course, but if it’s excessive, it can actually prevent you from getting in a good quality workout later in the week.

The Wellspring | November 2016 34

Weight training on its own is not effective. You can’t out-exercise a bad diet. No matter how much progress you’re making in the weight room, you’ll sabotage your efforts if you aren’t following a healthy eating plan. Someone who consumes a whole-food diet and stays active will have a healthier and slimmer body than a person who trains all day but eats processed and junk foods. When lifting your weights, you’ll want to be sure that you’re consuming enough healthy protein (which helps build muscle), as well as healthy fats and carbohydrates (which keep you energized, satiated, and also help you recover from your workouts). Good nutrition and training are essential for your health and strength.

Slow is the way to go. When you’re starting a weight-lifting program, it can be tough to remember proper technique—and tempting to fly through your workout without focusing on your form. However, this is a surefire way to get injured. The best way to ensure your long-term safety is to learn the proper techniques for all of the exercises you’re doing, which means that you should start with basic moves and stick to them for a while. After all, basic exercises will help you establish a solid foundation upon which the more advanced moves are built. And whatever you do, remember the phrase “quality trumps quantity.” It may be tempting to think that the more exercises you do per session, the better your results will be, but that isn’t the case.

It’s not set in stone. If you really dislike the weight-training workout you’re doing, how about trying another one? Don’t feel bound to the one you’re at, because it is crucial that you enjoy the process. This will improve the odds that you’ll actually stick it out over time.

Take a break. The best way to make progress is by taking rest days. Believe it or not, all of the hard work you’re putting in at the gym won’t lead to impressive results if you’re not giving your body a break. That’s because getting enough rest ensures that the physiological changes you’re working so hard to make actually take place. In general, take about 48 hours of rest between weight-training workouts. In other words, weight-training should be done no more than 2-3 times per week for best results.

The Benefits of Weight Training Many individuals who exercise or are new to the fitness world believe that strength training is only for more experienced athletes and that all it does is build unwanted muscle. This could not be further from the truth. There are too many physical, health, and mental benefits to leave strength training out of your workout schedule. •It improves bone density. One of the best ways you can control bone loss as you age is to add strength training into your workout plan. •It promotes fat-free body mass with decreasing sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass). The lean muscle mass that we all work so hard for decreases with age. If we don’t add strength training to our routine, it will turn into fat. •It increases the strength of connective tissue, muscles, and tendons. This leads to improved motor performance and decreased injury risk. •It improves your quality of life, as you gain confidence in your ability to succeed. Strength training will not only make you strong, but it will also help with managing your weight.

Syma Kranz, PFC, is a certified aerobics, Pilates, and Barre instructor, as well as the fitness director at Fusion Fitness in Lakewood, New Jersey. What started out as a small exercise class in her home catapulted into a popular gym that prides itself with tzanua, professional instructors and an appropriate atmosphere with lyric-free music and proper attire. Syma specializes in training women to integrate fitness into their busy lives, paying special attention to proper form and alignment and specializing in core and pelvic floor strengthening.

Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 35

Living Well

Cover Feature By Ruchy Reese

Is it really eczema

â&#x20AC;&#x201A; The Wellspring | November 2016 36

that’s burning your skin? “Why’s your face so red?” My friend’s question made me blush, though she probably didn’t realize it, given the already crimson hue of my skin. “It’s allergies.” I said. “Eczema.” She watched as both hands flew to my face, tearing at the inflamed skin. Shaking her head, she walked off, muttering, “You poor thing.”

didn’t disagree with her. I did, however, plan to run home and grab a tube of super-strength hydrocortisone to tame the unbearable burn. Long ago, the lower percentages of hydrocortisone cream had ceased to offer relief, and in my quest to feel better, I constantly sought ever-stronger prescriptions. With nary a comment, the doctors fulfilled my request — even prescribing oral steroids when I told them the eczema was too much to bear. I’ll be the first to admit it: I was addicted. Anything containing cortisone — be it cream or pill — was my friend. Every human wants to feel normal, wants to have clear skin and calm innards, and I was no different. On the days I used prednisone, I was blissfully itch-free and able to function with a smile. But woe to me (and anyone around me!) when my cortisone products wore off. Raging flames of fire spread through my insides, heading out towards my skin. I would become overheated — both internalDID YOU KNOW? ly and externally — and scratch until Cortisone products are steroids. I bled. During those episodes, nearly Hydrocortisone is a steroid cream. everything caused me to feel stressed. Prednisone is a steroid pill. The only thing that calmed me was anThere are also cortisone injections, which are steroids. other dose of cortisone — especially in the form of prednisone. “Cortisone” and “steroid” are used interchangeably throughout the article. The funny thing was, until I married

Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 37

Living Well

Cover Feature

I hadn’t had any exposure to any form of cortisone products, though I’d had the occasional bout of itchiness that would resolve with time. My husband, however, had been diagnosed with eczema as a baby, and had grown up on hydrocortisone. He introduced me to its calming effects during an itchy spell, and I was amazed at how quickly my skin felt better. I was sold. Every time the itch came back, I’d use topical steroids once again, and feel better. Within a matter of months of using hydrocortisone frequently, though, my eczema became horrid, and I quickly became known as “the itchy lady.” Eight years after the original cortisone exposure, my skin suddenly took a shocking turn for the worse, far beyond the itch I’d experienced up until that point. Nearly overnight my facial skin became so frightfully painful and unbelievably red that I hated looking in the mirror and dreaded being seen in public. My allergies were also out of control at that point, with ever-rising IgE levels. Most doctors wouldn’t even see me after looking at my lab tests, saying that I was beyond help. I was a mess. Emotionally, I was miserable. There were times when I felt I couldn’t face another day. I wondered if my entire life would be spent with burning skin, debilitating allergies, and high stress levels. I knew that I had to find some kind of cure. I began digging, and what I found changed my life. It wasn’t eczema that was causing my pain. It was cortisone. The very item I believed was healing me was, in fact, hurting me. It may be hurting you, too. Topical Steroid Withdrawal Topical Steroid Withdrawal is the name given to the adverse drug reaction to cortisone products that millions of people around the world are suffering from today. When hydrocortisone (a topical steroid) first made its appearance The Wellspring | November 2016 38

on the medical market in 1951, the world was thrilled. Finally, a drug was discovered that would relieve eczema sufferers from the incessant itch! Its oral counterpart, prednisone, was welcomed just as enthusiastically. Unfortunately, it was soon learned that prolonged use of cortisone results in a long list of potential side effects, as well as skin atrophy (wasting away and breaking down of the skin barrier), skin cell division and reduction, damage to blood vessels

The very item I believed was healing me was, in fact, hurting me. and nerves, and adrenal suppression. More unfortunate is the addictive nature of these drugs. Many eczema sufferers are not aware of the damage these medications can cause and tend to turn to these creams, pills, and injections more often than sound medical wisdom should permit. Sadly though, sound medical wisdom in the field is often rare to come by, since many doctors actually encourage frequent use of hydrocortisone. Without even realizing it, these people — people like myself — damage their body in a way that may lead to one of the most painful types of drug reactions a human can handle: Topical Steroid Withdrawal, also known as Red Skin Syndrome (TSW or RSS). For most sufferers, the cycle of addiction is the same. A patient pres-

ents with patches of itchy skin and is prescribed a pill, cream, or injection containing cortisone. Like magic, the skin heals itself and the patient feels better. Later, when the same symptoms recur, the patient resorts to the cortisone product once again — and once again, feels better. So begins a vicious cycle. Who Is Affected by TSW? Chronic users of cortisone — be they sufferers of eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis — frequently believe their skin is simply worsening over time. The truth is, however, that their bodies are becoming used to the damaging effects of cortisone products, and upon withdrawal from the offending medication, they suffer painful symptoms that continue to mimic ever-worsening eczema. The truth is however, that they are not suffering from eczema. What’s really happening is a cyclical process involving vasoconstriction and vasodilation — the closing and opening of blood vessels. Every time topical steroids are applied to reddened skin, the veins constrict. These vessels have a job to do, however, and when the cream is discontinued, they reopen (dilate), and the skin appears even redder than before. With the therapeutic aspect of the drug no longer available (the desensitization to the itchiness through vasoconstriction), users are left to feel the damage the cortisone has caused. It is a tragic cycle. As the body becomes more dependent upon steroids, it becomes nearly impossible to break away from them, with the body running to its own terrorizer as the hoped-for cure. What starts out as skin with true eczema morphs into skin that is eaten away by the very cream meant to calm the itch. Over an estimated usage period of 4–8 weeks, steroid addiction sets in; its existence eventually becoming glaringly obvious by the effects on the skin. Sadly, much of this addiction is medically induced by doctors who under-pre-

scribe topical steroids when they are actually justified. Concern regarding side effects leads many doctors to prescribe incredibly low dosages of steroid creams, especially when young children are involved, in which case they must be used for extended periods of time in order to see results. During my research of TSW, I was told by Dr. Marvin Rapaport, an expert in the field, that the proper method of prescribing cortisone creams when warranted is to give slightly higher doses for shorter intervals. This prevents addiction. And don’t be fooled. Although the name “Topical Steroid Withdrawal” leads one to think this applies only to creams, users of any form of cortisone can — and often do — suffer from TSW. The trickiest part of TSW is that it often begins while the sufferer is still using the cortisone products, and one by one, the products begin to fail in efficacy. These cortisone users often cycle upwards into heavier (and more damaging) steroid use, until they are forced against their will to withdraw from all products, simply because nothing works for them anymore. Others eventually learn of the damage this causes to their bodies and make the wise decision to quit. Why Break Away From Cortisone? Nearly 100% of people who have suffered for years from what was diagnosed as “eczema” find that after completely breaking away from cortisone products and suffering through the healing process of TSW, their skin becomes nearly perfect. Through the course of my interview with Dr. Rapaport, he reiterated that people addicted to steroids are also known for high IgE levels and “terrible allergies,” like I have. He told me that it’s all because of the cortisone, and once the body is healed, the allergies will “burn out,” the same way that eczema — when left to heal naturally — does. His

proof: Thousands of patients once diagnosed with anaphylaxis are now eating the very foods they’ve always feared. I won’t romanticize the process. Breaking away from a steroid addiction is not an easy thing to do. In fact, it’s miserably hard. The body flares up in protest once its symptom-masking medication has been taken away, and the damage appears full force. For most users it takes many long months to feel and look healthy once again, though children tend to heal faster, perhaps due to their often shorter period of steroid use. What to Expect When Withdrawing from Steroid Use Skin redness and flaking are the two most common symptoms of healing from cortisone use. As the largest organ — and the one most directly affected by cortisone — the skin must work hardest to stem the hyper-dilation of the blood vessels. The burning itch of the skin while in the throes of TSW has been compared to a terrible burn. During these painful months, some people cannot handle any moisturizers, whereas others can tolerate one or two types. The skin may be unbearably sensitive, and even a light breeze or the touch of linen can cause intense discomfort. Thankfully, the all-consuming itch and pain decreases over time, though the first few months of withdrawal can take over one’s life. Many users find antihistamines help with the pain during the first stretch of recovery, though it should be noted that these may carry their own risks with long-term use, as well. A knowledgeable, supportive doctor can help with pain management and overseeing the recovery period. For some, the redness experienced during TSW isn’t confined to the area where cortisone was used, but spreads, due to the absorption of the medication by the skin and vessels in neighboring areas. The inflamed skin may appear as a “red

sleeve” going down the arms or may affect the entire body. And then, there is the flaking. White flakes of dead skin fall off in surprising amounts. The body grows new skin, but first it has to shed the damaged skin, similar to a snake’s shedding. For months, skin can flake and flake, though blessed breaks may occur in between flares. Flaking is one of the most specific symptoms of TSW. True eczema is not characterized by flaking. If your skin is flaking and you are using or have used cortisone, you are probably going through TSW. It is a fact: Cortisone causes worse “eczema” than eczema itself. As someone currently struggling with this terrible affliction, I beg readers of The Wellspring to ad-

Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 39

Living Well

Cover Feature

An Inside View:

Q&A With Dr. Marvin Rapaport Leading physician in the battle against Topical Steroid Addiction BASED IN BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA, DR. RAPAPORT IS CERTIFIED BY THE AMERICAN BOARD OF DERMATOLOGY AND IS A CLINICAL PROFESSOR AT UCLA MEDICAL SCHOOL. THOUSANDS OF PATIENTS DIAGNOSED WITH ECZEMA HAVE VISITED HIM FROM AROUND THE WORLD AND HAVE SUBSEQUENTLY REGAINED THE HEALTH OF THEIR SKIN. HIS PRIMARY GOAL IN LIFE IS TO HELP PEOPLE REALIZE AND RECOVER FROM THE DANGERS OF CORTISONE ABUSE. HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED WITH TSW? I ran the allergy clinic in UCLA in the late 70’s and saw patients who exhibited severe eczematoid rashes, especially on the face. These people were on fire, and I did a lot of testing to find the hidden allergen. The story was always the same. From the start it was apparent that most patients experienced a mild dermatitis on various parts of the body that progressively worsened. Their histories always included numerous doctor visits, multiple physicians, and therapy consisting of an increasing amount of steroids. Through the course of my work it became clear that the physician’s therapy, the corticosteroids, was invariably causing the problem. HAVE YOU EVER SEEN A BAD CASE OF ECZEMA THAT WAS NOT, IN ACTUALITY, CAUSED BY STEROIDS? In my experience — and I’ve seen thousands of patients — eczema burns out of the body, usually by three or four years of age, though some may have spots of lingering eczema into the teen years, and some adults may still be slightly itchy. These are not the horrible rashes we see today. All of the people that I’ve treated are absolutely cleared. Their eczema burned out long ago, and they were always battling cortisones throughout the years. HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE YOU SEEN RECOVER FROM THEIR “ECZEMA” AFTER GOING OFF STEROIDS? I’ve worked with roughly 4,000 patients who are now completely healed from what they thought was eczema, including 20-30 people who were severely depressed and nearly suicidal as a result of their suffering. I’ve also seen patients who were told they are allergic to many things, but are now eating everything. When using cortisones, testing always comes back with high IgE levels and false positives indicating allergies. WHY DO YOU THINK MANY DOCTORS DO NOT RECOGNIZE TSW/RSS? Most doctors have been trained in

The Wellspring | November 2016 40

the last thirty years, after steroid creams became standard, and all they saw in their training was “bad eczema.” I am a little older, so I saw the natural histories before the steroids affected these people. I’ve seen the change. But a doctor who wants to help his patients could recognize it even today by just listening to the patients who are telling him that they are getting worse with steroid use. ARE THERE ANY TIMES IT IS OKAY TO CORTISONE PRODUCTS? IF SO, WHEN? There are, but only for short term. Sometimes a true eczema patient needs something to calm the skin, and I’ll have them use mid-strength steroids for a few days, but never on the face. If there is recurrence of eczema (not flare of redness), then they may be prescribed a few more days of therapy 3–4 weeks later, but not sooner. I never allow for red flaring and addiction. Once the patient needs more and more steroids and the redness affects larger areas of the body — that is addiction. WHAT IS THE ROLE OF A DOCTOR DURING TSW? It may take months or even years to recover from TSW/RSS, which is why it is important to consider all of the symptoms when determining treatment plans. Many patients report full clearance of symptoms, but know that it can take a long time and be very difficult. A doctor needs to oversee the recovery of not just the TSW, but of the complete person. Some people need anti-itch or anti-anxiety medications, or pain relief to get through the withdrawal. Everyone has a different way of handling things, and a doctor is there to walk the patient through it. There can also be skin infections from all of the scratching that needs to be treated. Withdrawal is a medical process, and it is recommended that a doctor be involved.

vocate for the health of the people they love. Avoid all types of cortisone, except in emergency or life-sustaining situations, or as directed by a doctor aware of and vigilant in regards to Topical Steroid Addiction. The risks during usage, and the pain during recovery, are just too great. In general, full healing takes between one and four years, depending on the individual’s history of cortisone use. The months or years of withdrawal are difficult, to say the least, but worth it in the end. Although doctors have believed skin atrophy to be permanent, thousands of people who have broken away from cortisone products vouch for the opposite. The body has the ability to heal itself, with Hashem’s help, though it takes time. I can personally vouch for this. Though I am only a few months into my break from all cortisone products, and I still struggle with withdrawal symptoms, I see hope on the horizon. For the first time in years, the deeply painful “eczema” cracks on my hands are completely healed, and I can finally bend my fingers. I can literally feel patches of healthy skin growing underneath the top layer of damage. My body is healing. Yours can too. All it takes is time. And staying far away from cortisone!

BID FAREWELL TO DRY SKIN Keeping skin moist is important for everyone during the winter. Double that for those with regular eczema, and quadruple that for those who’ve fallen into the trap of cortisone addiction. Though it’s a challenge to overcome the itch of dry skin, these two tips can help tremendously: 1. MAKE YOUR OWN EASY 2-INGREDIENT NATURAL MOISTURIZER This easy recipe combines inflammation-soothing zinc oxide with the anti-fungal powers of coconut oil. It takes just minutes to make and really soothes sore, itchy skin. If the skin barrier is very compromised in the early stages of Topical Steroid Withdrawal and cannot absorb the oil well,Vaseline can be layered on top. ½ cup Virgin Coconut Oil (I used Grain Brain) 2 Tbsp Zinc Oxide powder 1. Whip coconut oil in blender 2. Add zinc oxide powder until well-blended* 3. Essential oils may be added for scent, but be careful with sensitive skin *Alternatively, you can melt the coconut oil and mix in the zinc oxide powder, and then chill until solidified. 2. INVEST IN A GOOD HUMIDIFIER FOR EVERY ROOM Heated rooms and eczema or TSW skin are a terrible combination. Nothing I’ve ever tried has worked as well as a humidifier during the winter to relieve the incessant itch. My favorite humidifier is the Honeywell HCM350W Germ Free Cool Mist Humidifier. It’s a cool mist machine that is safe around children and has a filter, so you don’t have to worry about the germs that usually come along with the cool mist versions. It also has a big water tank that doesn’t need to be refilled for almost 24 hours, even when it’s set on high. There is also no “white dust” that other machines emit.The mist is very fine — you don’t even see it; you just feel better.

OTHER SYMPTOMS ONE MAY EXPERIENCE DURING WITHDRAWAL • The inability to regulate temperature, leading to intense chills and periods of hot flashes • Oozing skin • Blisters • Overwhelming itch • Overwhelming thirst • Flares/breaks (months of difficult symptoms/no symptoms) • Skin that is very hot to the touch • Skin that feels like thin plastic or tissue paper • “Elephant skin” (thickened skin) • Edema (swelling) • Possible eye discharge and dry, bloodshot eyes • Insomnia • Exhaustion • Depression, frustration, embarrassment, possible suicidal ideations For more information on the healing process of Topical Steroid Withdrawal and support as you join the ranks of those rejecting cortisone for a healthier, itch-free future, or if you wish to speak to a doctor who recognizes TSW and is trained in handling TSW patient care, feel free to contact the author through The Wellspring. If you are a doctor who recognizes TSW and are ready to help clients recover, please contact her to join a TSW doctor database.The author and Dr. Rapaport can be contacted through The Wellspring. Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 41

SO LITE. SO YUMM. ONLY 100 CALORIES

NOW AVAILABLE IN COFFEE, VANILLA & VANILLA CHOCOLATE.

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NO SUGAR ADDED

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ISSUE 10 NOVEMBER 2016 CHESHVAN 5777

Soup for the Soul NEW FEATURE! Look out for Dr. Rachael Schindlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nutrition Nuggets that accompany every recipe for nutritional comments and food prep advice.

EAT WELL: DID YOU KNOW THAT BROCCOLI IS PACKED WITH FIBER?

Dear cooks, Soup is not a new addition to our supper table now that winter‘s peeking out to us from around the bend. In my kitchen, soup is an every-nighter. How else can I ensure that we fill up on the recommended lot of vegetables? There‘s only so much stir fry one can eat! (Salad is a lunch thing in our minds.) Even in three-digit weather, you‘ll find us huddled around the kitchen table (with the air conditioner on high!), enjoying our steaming, liquid fare. But when winter does come around, I try to bring something new into the soup bowl. In my attempt to stay away from starchy ingredients like minestrone or even an abundance of barley, the choices are not that varied. With Seasoned in mind, I had some work to do. So with healthful ingredients and a desire to concoct something really special and filling for you, I created three recipes that fit the bill. With one soup more rich than the next, you almost don‘t need a main course! Enjoy these in your cozy kitchen. Happy cooking,

-Levia

I love soup! I think soup soothes the mind, body, and soul: The mind because it takes time to eat, so you can‘t multi-task (at least not safely) while eating, so you get to tune out and relax. The body, because it warms you up and fills you, so you‘re less likely to eat what you shouldn‘t, thereby taking care of your body. And the soul? As they say, chicken soup for the soul soothes all! Diet considerations: Some soups have a high starch content, such as butternut squash soup, bean soup, and barley soup. They are okay in moderation but are not as low in calories as a vegetable soup.

TANYA ROSEN, M.S CAI CPT I‘m excited to join the team of nutritionists in Seasoned! Look out for my Nutrition Nuggets in the pages ahead that will point out nutrition facts and ideas for alternative ingredients for the featured recipes. My take on soup? It‘s a great meal starter in terms of filling you up and providing you with added fiber. Or it can even be a meal in itself!

DR. RACHAEL SCHINDLER When it comes to a quick and nutritious autumn dinner, chicken stir is a family favorite. I grill some cutlets and add a bag of stir-fry vegetables and spices (or light soy sauce). It‘s delicious and leaves you feeling light but satisfied.

SHANI TAUB, CDC If you want to raise your simple vegetable soup to the next level, add some thyme or rosemary when you‘re putting in the spices. It‘s worth it to be daring!

SHIFFY FRIEDMAN, CNWC Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 45

Eat Well

Recipes By Levia Joseph Styling & Photography By Malky Levine

Cabbage Tomato Soup with Beef Balls A new, combined twist on some of your usual winter dishes. The combination is awesome! 1/2 head of cabbage, thinly sliced 2 15 oz cans of tomato sauce 4 cups water 4 cups chicken soup 2 fresh tomatoes cubed 1 medium onion, sliced

3 fresh garlic cloves, minced 3 Tbsp xylitol 4 bay leaves juice of 1/2 lemon salt to taste

Place all ingredients in a large pot and bring to boil. Once it boils, lower the flame while preparing the dumplings. Beef Balls: 1 lb ground beef 1/4 cup brown rice 1 slice whole wheat challah, soaked in water and drained

1 medium onion, grated 1/8 cup oil 1 egg 1 tsp salt

In a large bowl, mix all ingredients until well combined. Refrigerate for half hour. With your hands, form small balls and drop them into the soup. Let the soup simmer for an hour.

Yield: 8 Servings

NUTRITION NUGGET For a gluten-free variety using honey, which has amazing antioxidant and antimicrobial properties (especially for colon cancer), substitute the xylitol for equal amounts of honey, and use ¼ cup of ground flax seed. This alternative is excellent for an omega-3 boost, plus fiber, vitamin B1, and copper. For a sugar-free variation, use Hunt’s natural tomato sauce and Imagine organic low sodium “no chicken” or vegetable broth. -- Dr. Rachael Schindler Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 47

Eat Well

Recipes

Winter Squash Cream Soup with Caramelized Shallots

The deep flavor that the caramelized shallots lend to this delectable dish is incredible. Don’t omit this step! 6 sweet dumpling squash (or a different variety of winter squash like acorn, kabocha, pumpkin...) 2 cloves garlic 6 shallots, sliced 6 Tbsp maple syrup 1 tsp of salt or to taste 1 Tbsp olive oil 1 large sweet potato 1/4 tsp pepper 2 cinnamon sticks 1 zucchini Preheat oven to 350˚ degrees. Cut off the tops of the squashes and remove the pits. Pour maple syrup into the squash and brush it up on the sides, using a tablespoon of maple syrup for each. Place the squashes on a cookie sheet and bake for 1 hour, until fork tender. Peel and cut the sweet potato and zucchini and add them to a pot. Add water to cover the vegetables. Add salt and pepper and bring to boil. Lower the flame, and cook approximately 45 minutes. Check that the vegetables are soft. Remove squash from the oven. Scoop out the inside, leaving a half inch around all the sides, and add to the pot. Add the two cloves of garlic and blend the soup until thick and creamy. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add the sliced shallots and cinnamon sticks. Sauté on a low flame until soft and browned. Serve the soup in the “squash bowls” and top with shallots. For added flavor, use your spoon to scrape the walls of the squash while eating.

Note: If you are not using the squash as serving bowls, you can make the recipe two-third squash. Yield: 6 servings

NUTRITION NUGGET This is a fabulous recipe, packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber to keep you going strong. Garlic, aside from being a flavorful food addition, has antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal, and other benefits. It even suppresses the growth of tuberculosis. Studies have shown that the allicin in garlic lowers the risk of preterm delivery, certain types of cancer, and cardiovascular disease all while helping you lose weight. So go for the flavor and the benefits too. --Dr. Rachael Schindler Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 49

LET’S BEET THE UNHEALTHY!

Beets. The king of superfoods. Cleanse your body. Reduce stress. At 60 calories a cup, this marvel of a food is packed with fiber. Studies have shown cancer-preventing nutrients and antioxidants. Infused with a chocolate-like effect to calm and ease the mind, beets are the premier leader of the food pyramid. Live again. Thank us later.

The Wellspring | November 2016 50

YOUR HEALTH. YOUR TASTE. Find our bags of ready-to-eat beets in your local supermarket.

Eat Well

Recipes

Hungarian Beef Goulash Soup Thick and chunky, this dish brings the flavor all the way from Hungary to your pot. 1 1/2 lb goulash meat 1 Tbsp olive oil 4 potatoes 4 carrots 2 onions

1 zucchini 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 chili pepper (optional), sliced 1/2 cup tomato paste 3 cups chicken soup

10 cups water 1 Tbsp paprika 1 Tbsp kosher salt 1 tsp cumin 1/2 tsp black pepper

Cube the meat into 1 inch squares. Slice one onion. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot. Add cubed meat, sliced onion, and minced garlic. Sprinkle salt and pepper. SautĂŠ until the meat turns brown and the onions are soft. Cube the potatoes and zucchini, and cut the carrots and onion into small chunks. Add the rest of the ingredients to the pot and bring to boil. Lower the flame and cook for 2-2 1/2 hours.

Optional: If you prefer a thicker soup, use a hand blender to pulse a few times, leaving some chunks intact.

NUTRITION NUGGET For added health benefits add meat bones, which fortify your bones and give you amazing antibiotic benefits. --Dr. Rachael Schindler

Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspringâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; 51

Eat Well

Nutrition Facts in a Shell By Devorah Isaacson

Here’s the place to check out nutrition labels for the nutrition-laden produce that come in their natural peels-- just so you know what wholesome goodness you’re feeding your family and yourself!

This Month:

Broccoli

For some people, broccoli only works when it’s on pizza. For others (like me), it’s a great snack just with a sprinkling of salt. Whether you enjoy it this way or that, broccoli is a most nutritious vegetable. High in vitamin C and folate, which is essential for mothers in the child-rearing years and beyond, this delicious vegetable from the cabbage family is also high in dietary fiber and potassium. What a perfect recipe for good health! Although fresh broccoli is in season now, we’re spoiled with frozen broccoli all year long, so there’s no reason not to enjoy this nutrition-loaded veggie. Fresh broccoli, however, provides deeper flavor and is usually available in a larger, more appealing size.

Principle

Nutrition Value

Percentage of RDA

Energy

34 Kcal

1.5%

Carbohydrates

6.64 g

Protein

2.82 g

Total Fat

0.37 g

Cholesterol

0 mg

Dietary Fiber

2.60 g

Folates

63 µg

16%

Niacin

0.639 mg

Pantothenic Acid

0.573 mg

12%

Pyridoxine

0.175 mg

13%

Riboflavin

0.117 mg

Thiamin

0.071 mg

Vitamin A

623 IU

21%

Vitamin C

89.2 mg

149%

Vitamin E

0.17 mg

1.5%

Vitamin K

101.6 µg

85%

Sodium

33 mg

Potassium

316 mg

Calcium

47 mg

Copper

0.0149 mg

5.5%

Iron

0.73 mg

Magnesium

21 mg

Manganese

0.210 mg

Selenium

2.5 µg

Zinc

0.41 mg

Carotene-B

361 µg

Crypto-xanthin-B

1 µg

Lutein-zeaxanthin

1403 µg

Vitamins

Electrolytes

Minerals

Phyto-nutrients

The Wellspring | November 2016 52

The high amount of folates (16% of the RDA in 100 grams) is particularly present in fresh broccoli heads, although the frozen version contains a nice amount, as well. Broccoli is also an exceptionally rich source of vitamin C, which makes it the perfect immune booster now that winter’s coming around. If you’re facing digestive issues, broccoli’s high fiber content may be just what you need. Just one cup of cooked broccoli contains 21 percent of your daily value of fiber. This green vegetable is a great source of antioxidants and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Bet you need no more convincing to take a crunchy bite!

Fun Facts: Thomas Jefferson, one of the founding fathers of the United States, was a fan of broccoli, importing the seeds from Italy to plant at Monticello. He recorded planting the vegetable there as early as in May of 1767. President George H.W. Bush famously found himself with more broccoli on his hands than he knew what to do with after angering American broccoli farmers by stating, “I do not like broccoli, and I haven’t liked it since I was a little kid, and my mother made me eat it, and I’m President of the United States and I’m not going to eat any more broccoli.” The farmers sent tons of it in retaliation.

In Your Plate!

Here are some great ideas for using the nutrition-stocked broccoli in your autumn and winter dishes. • Fresh (or defrosted) broccoli in its raw, simple state is so incredibly delicious. Just sprinkle some salt and pepper for a crunchy, truly guilt-free snack. • Nothing like a broccoli stir fry with beef. Add cashews for great flavor and additional crunch. • Broccoli soup (sautéed onions, zucchini, and a bag of broccoli, blended together) makes a perfect winter treat for the hungry, frostbitten kids who walk through your door after school. If you want to serve it on the milchig night in your home, your family will get extra lucky. Add some milk and shredded cheese for excellent flavor and tangy cheesiness. • Speaking of dairy, just a bit of melted cheddar and mozzarella on steamed broccoli takes healthy eating to a whole new level. A clean-eating café in your home! • Broccoli salad can make for a perfectly balanced meal. Allow a bag of broccoli to defrost for several hours in a bowl. Add chunks of turkey roll, cashews, sliced red onions, and corn. Dress with a mixture of mustard, mayonnaise, salt, and garlic powder. Eating healthy has never been so good!

Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 53

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IN THE KNOW

Good to the Eye Clearview Opticians is closing its doors after 55 years of impeccable service to the community. As of December 1st, The Lens Center will be taking over all Clearview records and is proud and excited to be able to service Clearview patients. The Lens Center is renowned for its experienced and professional staff, as well as offering top quality service!

Bet You'll Love This Although beets offer excellent health benefits, like folates, an array of B-vitamins, and cardiovascular boosters, prepping them for dishes can be a pain. You don’t want to be left with red hands when you’re finally done chopping up that salad. With the advent of Gefen’s Organic Red Beets that are ready-to-eat and conveniently packaged, you can get the benefits without the hassle.

The Ideal Combo What’s for breakfast today? It’s always a perfect morning for some blended fruit with cheese, but who has the time to get the blender out—and then to wash it afterward? Gevina Farms has done the work for you! Thanks to their latest hot item on the dairy market, you can now have your fruit and cheese combo—and relax too! Fruittage is the ultimate in flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Enjoy it at your breakfast bar, your desk, or even in transit.

It’s Tea Time What better time of year than to enjoy the deep flavor and soothing effect of tea? The mere thought generates relaxation in the bones. But not all teas are created equal. When it comes to quality tea, it’s good to be choosy. Thanks to the creators of the Wissotzky Tea brand, the cream of the crop is readily available at your local store. Combining a bouquet of enticing flavors and aromas inspired by Morrocan tradition, its Nana collection is sure to pacify your body and refresh your soul. Available in a wide variety of distinct, deep flavors, you’re sure to find one that will call your name.

Time for Leben Again It’s hard to find a former child for whom the word Leben does not conjure up childhood memories. After all, there aren’t many go-to foods that are as delicious, easy to eat, and filling as this dairy treat. Despite it all, Leben remained a kid food, one whose not-so-nutritious content didn’t appeal to the adult conscience. That is, until this month. With Mehadrin’s introduction of Light Leben, it’s time for Leben once again! Ever the forward thinkers, they’ve put the quick and easy treat or meal through a nutrition process—it contains 1/2 the fat, 1/3 fewer calories than regular chocolate Leben, with the same great taste. Get those straws out!

End the Wart War You know that wart that you’re sure will always remain at your side, much too loyal? There’s good news for you: It can disappear. And the better news is that there’s no fine print here. Through a completely painless and quick process, your warts can become a distant memory. Naturalife creams, produced from 100% natural ingredients, enjoy great popularity on the market these days. The company’s wart removal cream, which was created to remove even the toughest of warts, promises results in up to three weeks. Apply to the root wart and watch the others disappear too. Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 55

Living Well

Health Profile By Esther Steinmetz

In this fun column, The Wellspring readers will become acquainted with a fellow reader’s health profile, getting a glimpse into the role that health and wellness play in her everyday life and the tidbits of advice that popular nutritionist and personal trainer Tanya Rosen offers for improved quality of life.

Age: 26

HINDY

Location: Lakewood, NJ Weight: 152 lbs. Height: 5’4” The BMI range for your height is 118–138 pounds, so 152 falls into the overweight, but not obese category. A 15–20 pound weight loss would bring you to the “normal” range. Married Kids: 2 boys Occupation: I’m a freelance photographer, with a passion for food photography (of course!). Favorite health food: Sushi salad This does not necessarily have to be healthy. Is the fish fried? How much rice does the salad contain? Is the rice white or brown? Is the salad dressed with spicy mayo or high-sodium regular soy sauce? These are some questions that will help you realize whether or not it’s a healthy dish after all. Favorite junk food: Chocolate jelly rings That’s my fave too! (I should not be saying this as a nutritionist, but try them frozen. Yum!) If you know how to do it right, a cheat is allowed from time to time. Favorite exercise: Jogging Favorite nutritious dish: Sautéed onions and mushrooms. I can eat the whole pan when I prepare this for dinner. Don’t waste oil on this. Use cooking spray and you’ll see that it tastes amazing and looks the same. My usual bedtime: 1:00 AM My usual wake-up time: 8:00 AM. That’s when my son usually comes to ask for his milk bottle. Although this timing initially sounds bad and we all know how important sleep is for weight loss, sleeping from 1 to 8 actually gives you seven hours of sleep, which is fine for an adult.

The Wellspring | November 2016 56

My biggest meal on a usual day: Lunch. I often go out for lunch with a sister or friend. It’s also the most relaxed time of day for me, unless I’m out on a job then. Beware of hidden high caloric add-ons such as salad dressing and foods cooked in oil or butter. The soups I usually make: I don’t make soups that often. We love chicken soup so we end up eating it fresh on Thursday, then at our seudah on Friday night, and the leftovers on Sunday. I usually tell my clients to take off one ounce of protein from their meal for every bowl of chicken soup that they eat because it does have some protein in it. My weight loss saga: Every time I tried to watch my weight, like before my wedding, after my babies, and many times in between, I was too attracted to the goodies that have been bringing the numbers up. I was on Atkin’s for about five months after my first baby was born, but before I knew it I was expecting my second and back into the eating game. Greatest weight loss challenge: I love food too much. How can you compare the taste of a salad to the taste of donuts? The extent I’ve gone to implement a healthy lifestyle in my home: I’m hoping that by not introducing my kids to all the stuff I crave they’ll be perfectly fine without it, so I limit the junk foods I bring into the home. When I want them, I enjoy them outside of the house. Very smart! The younger they are when they develop an awareness for nutrition, the better. Just make sure that they don't feel deprived and that they do have some junk in moderation, such as for special occasions. What I do in my downtime: As a photographer, I’m intrigued by beautiful shots. I do a lot of browsing to get ideas. That really helps me wind down and relax. Since you’re good at making food look appealing as a food photographer, try plating your healthy food in a way that will make it appear more appetizing and pleasant to eat. That can serve as a great motivation. My lifestyle goals: I would love to lose 20 pounds so I can feel more comfortable, physically and emotionally, in my skin. It bothers me that I don’t have that sense of control to do what I know is right.

Tanya Rosen, M.S CAI CPT is a nutritionist, personal trainer, and owner of Nutrition by Tanya with locations in Flatbush, Boro Park, Williamsburg, Monsey, and Lakewood. Tanya is the creator of the TAP (Tanya approved products) line available on her website, in her offices, and select supermarkets, offering all-natural, low-calorie, delicious snacks and food. She is also the creator of the Shape Fitness Kosher Workout DVDs for ladies and for teens, available in all Judaica stores. Tanya can be reached through The Wellspring. To be interviewed for this column (anonymously) please send your contact information to info@wellspringmagazine.com.

Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 57

Living Well

Healthy Home Habits By Batsheva Fine

Tried and True

The Allergy Dilemma: No To One Means No To All? I have found the answers in this column to be very helpful and useful in my home. Now’s my chance to ask a question that has been nagging me for months. About one year ago, my four-year-old daughter was diagnosed with an allergy to eggs. Although her reactions are not life-threatening, egg consumption makes her very uncomfortable. In addition to being off the obvious scrambled or hardboiled breakfast, she also cannot eat cookies, cakes, or challah, as well as many other treats. I do my best to provide her with substitutes, but I know that it bothers her when her siblings do enjoy those foods. This is where my dilemma lies. Should I stop bringing these foods into my house altogether or teach her to manage with her condition? Yitty Monsey, NY mother of five: As a mother of two allergic children, this is my take. It’s okay for children to learn from a young age that certain foods are off-limits to them and that every human being has her challenges. You will be surprised how kids grasp this concept even from a very young age. My allergic children know that the cookies in the pantry are not for them, but that they have other treats that are allowed. They also understand that eating the foods that are not good for them will have negative repercussions, so why would they want to take that risk? Gail Los Angeles, CA mother of two: If you have the time, there are many baked goods you can create in your own home for everyone in your family to enjoy. In our home, because I also have one child who is allergic to eggs, I substitute eggs with other binding agents such as a mashed banana, xanthan gum, or applesauce. The texture might not be identical, but why shouldn’t everyone be able to enjoy? Faigy Lakewood, NJ mother of seven: I wish I had an answer for you, because I’m always facing this dilemma. My ten-year-old can get really upset when everyone is enjoying something with eggs (even scrambled eggs sometimes!), but I don’t believe that making the home egg-free is a solution. It’s a great protein and binding agent. I do make egg-free challah, though. And here’s a delicious recipe for an egg-free cookie that I bake with her whenever the freezer stock is low. She often eats these for breakfast with a cup of milk because they’re so almost-healthy! The other kids love them too! 2 Tbsp flax meal mixed with 1/3 cup warm water (instead of the eggs) 1 cup packed brown sugar 3/4 cup plus 2 Tbsp vegetable oil 1 Tbsp pure vanilla extract 2 1/2 cups flour: whole wheat pastry, or spelt flour 3/4 tsp baking powder 3/4 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp salt 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips Preheat the oven to 375˚. Cream the egg substitute with the sugar in a food processor or mixer until light and fluffy. Add the rest of the ingredients and mix on a low speed until combined. Drop the cookies in teaspoonfuls onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for ten minutes. Don’t bake longer even if they look soft! Let them cool before removing from tray. Enjoy! The Wellspring | November 2016 58

I’m actually responding as a formerly allergic child because I believe that my mother’s approach was so thoughtful and perceptive. Even today, more than a decade after I’ve outgrown my egg allergy, thinking of her response to the situation fills me with a rush of love and admiration to her. At age five, I was diagnosed with my allergy. Like in your case, it was not life threatening, but egg consumption gave me uncomfortable rashes and stomach pain. From when I was diagnosed, my mother would take me every Rosh Chodesh to the health food store so we could stock up on egg-free products. The selection in those days was minimal, but the special time I spent with her then and the ability to choose what I liked from the shelf was enough for me to stick it out all month long while the family indulged in their egg-loaded treats. Dr. Sarah Silverman Allergist at Mt. Sinai Medical Group There is no right answer. I am not sure what you mean by “non-life-threatening allergy to eggs,” since it is very hard to anticipate how severe an allergic reaction will be. I am assuming there is a risk of significant reaction, since the child was advised by his/her doctor/allergist to avoid eggs. It is important for any child with an allergy or a presumed allergy to see an allergist or their pediatrician to confirm the allergy and to discuss avoidance and management of any possible reaction. The answer to your question really depends on the individual child and family. On one hand, the allergic child is used to having something “different” from everyone else at school and other events. At home, it would be nice if the child wasn’t singled out and could eat the same food as her siblings—to not be different for once. Having the nonallergic siblings eat the same food as their allergic sibling is a way of supporting that child. If the attitude of the family is such that the nonallergic treats are treats the whole family can enjoy rather than something the other children have to suffer through, it will likely not be such an issue for the siblings. Besides, there are many really good options available these days for egg allergic children—some that are truly delicious! You can get egg-free recipes online and make them together as an activity. An added benefit: It is safe for everyone to lick the bowl! It may not be realistic for the family to remove all traces of baked egg from the home (and in some cases it should not be done for the other children), but I have many families who do, in order to make the home a safe place for the child. It is also safer, clearly, to not have temptation around the allergic child. On the other hand, some individuals see it differently. They do not want to “deprive” their nonallergic child by having them eat allergen-free foods at home. Their allergic child has to get used to eating differently and that should extend to the home. It is part of her routine and sometimes straying from that routine can be dangerous. I hope this helps!

Smart Solution Maxi Health Joins the Conversation Although we can only offer our sympathies regarding your dilemma, we would like to chip in with nutritional advice. Because your daughter is off eggs, she may be losing out on the vital nutrient group that eggs are known for: protein. In order to ensure that she receives a healthy amount of protein during her crucial developing years, we recommend supplementing her diet with Naturemax™, a great-tasting soy drink that is loaded with protein and many other vital nutrients like vitamins, enzymes, and fiber. Countless studies, such as one published in the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine (1998), have shown that protein plays a key role in cognitive development, as well as in boosting the mood and focus, which is especially important for school-aged children. Next up: As a working mother, I send my kids off to school and/or babysitter before I start my own day, but on days that a child is sick, I’m in a quandary. I obviously can’t take off from work whenever I’d like, but I also don’t want to leave my kid or send him to school or the babysitter if he’s not feeling okay. What are some suggestions that fellow mothers can offer? Please submit your tips to info@wellspringmagazine.com. Is there a healthy habit you’d love to enforce in your home? Let us know what it is and we’ll do our work to get the conversation rolling in your favor! Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 59

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease.

Leah Brooklyn, NY mother of one:

Living Well

Monthly Dose By Dina Mendlowitz

THE MAGIC MINERAL NEW! MAXI MAGNESIUM LYSYL GLYCINATE™

Some minerals that are crucial for proper functioning, like calcium, have enjoyed extensive popularity amongst the population for many years, providing relief for various problems. However, magnesium is another versatile mineral, perhaps the most overlooked, that is crucial for maintaining our health. In fact, it plays such an essential role in hundreds of biochemical tasks within the body that many doctors and researchers consider it to be the single most important nutrient for human health. Over 300 different enzymes require magnesium in order to perform their specific activities. Two main functions boosted by magnesium are the production of energy and the proper functioning of nerves. Symptoms of poor magnesium intake can include muscle cramps, facial tics, poor sleep, and chronic pain. It pays to ensure an adequate magnesium intake before signs of deficiency occur. According to studies, less than 30% of adults living in the U.S. consume the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of magnesium, and nearly 20% get only half the magnesium they need daily to remain healthy. In her book The Magnesium Miracle, Dr. Carolyn Dean writes that in order to get enough magnesium today, she is convinced we must take supplements. Since magnesium is a micronutrient, our bodies need only a small amount of this mineral in order to thrive. However, without that seemingly small dose, we can unnecessarily experience pain, discomfort, and lack of optimal functioning.

MAGNESIUM – A MAGNIFICENT MINERAL The trace mineral magnesium is involved with almost every energy-related process in the body. It is an essential component in cellular energy, metabolism, muscle strength, heart health, and our natural immune defenses. It also reduces oxidative stress and inflammation, the two primary causes of all disease, and relieves pain. Magnesium has been found to enhance physical performance across the board, as well as help muscles relax following exercise. That means you don’t get that “tightness” from exercising or from the repeated physical activity required in a workout. It’s great to have magnesium on board after a workout (or to take preemptively before one) to keep your muscles from tightening up. It is important to note that our bodies tend to burn through minerals at a very fast rate when we are physically active, diminishing their supply in the body. Thus, supplementation is important in order to provide our bodies with the correct amount. The Wellspring | November 2016 60

NERVOUS SYSTEM FUNCTION

Magnesium helps relax muscles and nerves, and like vitamin B6, acts as a cofactor for many enzyme systems in the body. Magnesium deficiency can lead to numbness and tingling, muscle contractions and cramps, and in severe cases, abnormal heart rhythms. Magnesium is also an excellent pain reliever. It works by blocking a pain receptor called the NMDA receptor. Studies show that people suffering from headaches, premenstrual syndrome, and leg cramps all benefit from magnesium, as well as those suffering from other conditions.

VISION

Magnesium is vital for the health of our blood vessels and nerves, as well as our vision. In a recent clinical study, participants with normal tensive glaucoma (not associated with increased pressure in the eye) took 300 mg of oral magnesium for one month. It is interesting to note that magnesium supplementation offered improvement

in the visual field, with the patients noticing an improvement in their vision.

HEADACHES

As we have seen, magnesium aids in maintaining a sound mind and body in many ways. This mineral also has a long history in migraine research. It has been estimated that about half of all migraine sufferers are magnesium deficient. With this in mind, studies have shown that pretreatment with magnesium reduces migraines in children and stops migraines in adults. Other research shows that magnesium deficiency is at the root of a number of neurological and mood disorders, including depression and anxiety, which have been treated conventionally with some of the same drugs used for migraines.

HEART HEALTH

Magnesium is probably the most important nutrient for that energy powerhouse, the human heart. It helps the heart muscle itself function better

• seizures • tremors • PMS

and also helps protect blood vessels, which is where most of what we call heart disease actually occurs. Magnesium is a natural blood thinner, much like aspirin, leading many doctors and researchers to believe that it may help prevent heart attacks and strokes.

DIABETES PREVENTION Perhaps the area where magnesium could have the biggest impact is in the prevention of diabetes. Scientists have proven that diabetics commonly have low magnesium levels, that people with higher magnesium levels do not develop diabetes, and that supplementing with magnesium appears to help reverse pre-diabetes.

WHICH FORM IS BEST?

CARDIOVASCULAR • high blood pressure • irregular heart rythm • stroke • coronary spasms

Although magnesium is indeed a wondrous mineral, not all magnesium supplements are created equal. There are various forms of magnesium on the market, many of which can cause loose stools and aren’t easily used by the body. Magnesium lysyl glycinate is one of the best forms of magnesium to take. In this form, the magnesium is bound

to the amino acid glycine, improving its absorption while minimizing negative side effects. Maxi Magnesium Lysyl Glycinate™ is not just another magnesium supplement. Using the superior quality TRAACS™ magnesium lysyl glycinate chelate, which stands for The Real Amino Acid Chelate System, this supplement contains magnesium that was tested in a patented method that results in the most effective, digestible form of this vital mineral.

References 1 Albion Research Notes. February 1994; 3(1) 2 Combs, G.F. & Nielsen, F.H. Health significance of calcium and magnesium: Examples from human studies. Calcium and Magnesium in Drinking Water: Public health significance. Geneva: World Health Organization Press; 2009. 3 Deans, C. The Magnesium Miracle. (2006). Ballantine Books: New York 4 Fox C., Ramsoomair D., Carter C. Magnesium: its proven and potential clinical significance. Southern Medical Journal. 2003;94(12):1195-201. 5 Journal of Clinical Hypertension (Greenwich). November 2011; 13(11):843-7. 6 King D.E., Mainous A.G., Geesey M.E., & Woolson R.F. Dietary magnesium and C-reactive protein levels. Journal Of The American College Of Nutrition. 2005 Jun;24(3):166-71. 7 Pao E.M. & Mickle S.J. Problem nutrients in the United States. Food Technology. 1981. 35:58-79.

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These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not ibntended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease.

“Magnesium deficiency is common and does DIGESTIVE have a legion of GASTROINTESTINAL SYSTEM SYSTEM • constipation devastating effects, • diabetes and correcting it The Many costs pennies a MUSCULOConditions For day per person." SKELETAL NERVOUS Which Magnesium SYSTEM SYSTEM — S. Johnson, • tight muscles Is Effective • fatigue • brittle bones • anxiety (Treatment/Prevention) Medical Hypotheses, • cramping • headaches & spasms • insomnia Elsevier Press • joint pain • irritability

Wellbeing

Clean Slate By Shiffy Friedman, MSW, CNWC

If There’s a Will There’s a Way But Is It Enough? The biggest stumbling block many dieters trip over is the idea that willpower alone should win the weight war. Of course you have willpower. You can’t possibly function in life without it. But willpower alone is not enough. As Torah Jews, we do believe that “ein davar ha’omeid bifnei haratzon, nothing stands in the way of willpower,” but we also daven every morning that Hashem save us from a nisayon and from the evil inclination. If everything was about your willpower, why would you even care if the yetzer hara tried to get in the way? As strong and determined as we think we are, we are human. And for this reason alone, we are destined to stumble. “Sheva yipol tzaddik vekam, the righteous man falls seven times and then raises himself up again,” our Sages teach. Failure is an intrinsic part of being human, and by virtue of being a part of this exalted species, slip-ups are inevitable. Why is this reality of fundamental importance to emotional eaters? In addition to the struggles they endure, emotional eaters also tend to enjoy a rich emotional world—a world in which their inner voice does a lot of talking. “I told you you can’t do this,” says the voice at one point. “You’re not meant to be thin,” says another. “It’ll anyway be a struggle all your life, so why even bother?” All of these voices may contain a kernel or two of truth, but that is still not a reason for you to succumb to them. For emotional eaters the war against overeating may be a lifetime battle, but that doesn’t mean it must be a constant one. Nor should that battle begin when the consequences of overeating are already felt, such as when the person is overweight or suffering from high blood pressure, etc. Willpower is effective—until a certain point. But when these thoughts threaten to overpower you, the voices of the yetzer hara, you’re at risk of losing all the clarity and weight loss

you’ve finally achieved. So how can you prevent food from being an emotional filler if these thoughts keep pounding in your head? The first step is to obtain a manageable plan—a plan that offers you choices that you like, foods that you’ll enjoy eating. Make the journey as pleasurable as possible. It’s true that food should generally not be used as a source of enjoyment, but that does not mean that you’re doomed to eat steamed chicken and broccoli for the rest of your life. If an emotional eater does not have a solid food plan, the slightest trigger will set off a bingeing attack, sabotaging the work you’ve already invested and the results you’ve finally seen. “I’ll start again tomorrow,” you whisper to the pitiful-looking cutlet in the plate. After all, chocolate chip cookies taste so much better, especially when you’re overwhelmed with the piles of laundry on the table. The solid plan offers direction. It offers consistence. It offers stability. Of course, having a solid plan in addition to willpower may still not be enough. As an emotional eater, you must arm yourself with tools you can use when you’re in need of emotional security. Whether you’ve had a rough day at work, with the kids, with your spouse, or the rain pounded too heavily on your window, what will be your go-to soother? Now that chocolate has been taken out of the picture, something else must take its place. If you deprive yourself of one source of comfort, you must provide yourself with another. In the next installment, we will discuss some ideas for healthy, wholesome fillers.

Failure is an intrinsic part of being human, and by virtue of being a part of this exalted species, slip-ups are inevitable.

In this column on emotional eating, Shiffy Friedman, MSW, CNWC, discusses the journey toward a healthy relationship with food from a Torah-based, psychological, and personal perspective.

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Wellbeing

Health Personality By Miri Davis

A CUP OF TEA WITH... SHIFRA SADOFF

OCCUPATION: Certified sleep sense consultant, independent practice and at Rockabye Baby Nurse Agency LOCATION OF PRACTICE: Chicago, Illinois PASSION: helping people live life to the fullest SHE WISHES MOTHERS WOULD KNOW THAT: sleep is a learned skill HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE FIELD OF SLEEP COACHING? I’m the mother of twin girls, Baruch Hashem, who were born a bit early. The first couple of weeks were a constant cycle of feeding them every three hours. With the feeding procedure taking 1 1/2 hours every time, my life became a sleepless routine. As every mother of twins will agree, twins means double the fun and half the sleep. When they were up for four-hour periods at a time at two weeks old, I was nervous. I didn’t know how much sleep newborns needed, but four hours awake felt like too long. I called the nurse at my pediatrician’s office and she reassured me that it’s not a problem, that many babies do that.

HOW WERE THE BABIES AT NIGHT? Every night, the night nurse would rock them in her arms or the car seat throughout the entire night in order to help them fall asleep and I knew this was something I could not perpetuate. I soon realized that my first goal would have to be to get them to fall asleep and remain asleep independently, without external help like continuous rocking, which I now call props. That’s when I started doing research, and I found Sleep Sense, the program I now use to coach mothers through the journey that helps them return to normal life again. As my girls’ sleep stabilized, and, as a result, our lives stabilized, it came to me as an epiphany. Wouldn’t it be amazing if I could help other mothers who are also struggling, those who were still searching for the answers I had found?

ONCE YOU FINALLY FOUND A PROGRAM THAT APPEALED TO YOU, HOW LONG DID THE PROCESS TAKE UNTIL YOUR TWINS WERE SLEEPING INDEPENDENTLY? The first step was to get them to sleep by themselves, on their back, without being held. This step took only three nights—three long, hard, loud nights when they were 6 weeks The Wellspring | November 2016 64

old (4 weeks after their due date). Only once we achieved that goal did I realize that the twins needed help with taking naps, as well, which was the next step in the process. And about a month after we got the naps down pat, when they were 3½ months old, we weaned them off their night feeds. It took time until I developed everything into a solid foundation because the discovery process was so slow. When I do this with clients, the process with infants takes about two weeks, and with newborns until they hit the infant stage.

WHAT’S THE BASIC PREMISE OF YOUR APPROACH? Getting to sleep is a journey. We have to get ourselves from point A to point B. And to reach our destination, sleep, we all have sleep aids—external objects we use to get us there, whether it’s a dark, cool room, or a specific blanket or pillow. Sleep aids per se are not inherently a problem; the problem develops when a child becomes dependent on a sleep prop, which is something external that will disrupt his sleep rhythm by disappearing in the middle of the night. Examples of sleep props would be nursing, a bottle, a pacifier, a parent’s presence, or being rocked or taken for a walk in order to fall asleep. If a baby is used to falling asleep as her mother rocks or nurses her, and the mother obviously disappears at some point, the child will not sleep through the night because the prop went missing. On the other hand, a sleep aid, like thumb-sucking, a blankie, or security doll, which stays with the child, is something I recommend to my clients. It makes the child feel safe and fuzzy. The transitional object, or sleep aid, should be special to the child—something that she likes using. Parents should limit its use to the bed or crib.

WHAT ABOUT KIDS WHO WAKE UP WITH NIGHTMARES? HOW CAN THEY GET A SOLID NIGHT OF SLEEP? I don’t like to give too much credence to nightmares be-

cause the child ends up waiting for Mommy to sleep with him. The best is to tell the child, “Oh, you just had a dream. I know it was scary.” Definitely validate the feeling because it is frightening, but then say, “It was not real even if it felt very real. I’m here and everyone’s fine and safe. Now you can go back to sleep without my help.” By coming in to the child’s room and sitting with him for an extended period of time the mother actually encourages nightmares. In general, any interaction with a child during his “night” should be brisk and business-like. Simply recommend the child to his room no matter what reason he woke up.

HOW LONG SHOULD A CHILD’S NIGHT BE? Most children need 12 hours of sleep every night, up until the age of 10. An infant should have 12 hours of uninterrupted sleep during the night in addition to naps. By 3 months, she should be taking 3 naps, by 6 months she should be taking 2, and at around 14, she should go down to one nap every day, until the child is between 2 1/2 and 3 1/2 years old.

AT WHAT TIME WOULD YOU RECOMMEND THE TODDLER NAP? When the child is taking a single daily nap, it should start at around 12:30. It’s really about wake time. Different ages can handle a different amount of awake hours, so you want to split up the awake hours.

IS THERE SUCH A THING AS A BABY OR CHILD BEING TOO TIRED TO FALL ASLEEP? There absolutely is! Babies and children can only handle a specific amount of awake time, which as we said, will vary based on age. Once they hit that awake threshold, their bodies will reach a fatigue point, causing them to become unable to tolerate the stimulation around them. If they are not put to sleep, they will compensate by producing an “awake” hormone, called cortisol. Cortisol will usually manifest itself in making the child appear hyperactive, giddy, or even manic, and the child will often swing from one extreme to the other in a very short time (laughing hysterically one moment, and then crying the next). The buildup of cortisol in the child’s bloodstream will also make it more difficult for him to fall asleep, stay asleep, and sleep well. This is why parents will often be perplexed to find that a child who was put to sleep late, often in an attempt to make him sleep late, will wake earlier than his usual wake time. Children who are put to sleep too late and/or do not get enough sleep will also display symptoms of overtiredness, such as crankiness, clinginess, low tolerance levels and attention spans, and increased impulsivity. Unfortunately, there are still doctors who recommend skipping a nap to help a child sleep longer at night (which will be counterproductive), and there are sleep books out there that misinform parents regarding an ideal nap schedule. Nap schedules are highly specific to age, and ought to be monitored frequently to ensure that the child is being put down in a “sleep sanctuary,” where it is dark, cool, and quiet, just at the end of their awake time threshold.

IF A PRESCHOOLER COMES HOME FROM SCHOOL AND WANTS TO GO TO BED, DOES THAT MEAN THAT SHE’S SLEEP DEPRIVED? If she wants to go to sleep on a regular basis, I would say that it’s a bad cycle of napping in the afternoon and then being unable to fall asleep at night. If it happens once in a while it’s probably a one-time reason like a tough night the night before or a very stimulating activity at school. When a child gets to preschool and drops the nap, she could still use quiet time for about an hour. Not having downtime in school can be a culprit.

WHAT’S THE EARLIEST THAT A YOUNG CHILD CAN BE PUT TO SLEEP? My ideal bedtime is 7:00 P.M. I wouldn’t do bedtime before 6:00, because the circadian rhythm, the body’s inner clock system that ensures that the hormones, etc. work in sync, is set to have a dip at around that time. Even adults feel a slight ditch at dinner hour and a slight boost after. Children are more wired for going to sleep between 6 and 8 P.M. And because they’ll be up 12 hours later, earlier than 7 is not really a great idea.

WHAT HAPPENS IF A CHILD SLEEPS LONGER THAN 12 HOURS? That’s fine. Some children need more sleep. It’s not something I would worry about.

WHAT ARE SOME QUESTIONS YOU ASK IF A BABY CRIES STRAIGHT BETWEEN NAPS? The first question I always ask is, “How long is she awake between naps?” And then, “How often is she being fed?” If the feedings are happening too often, it could be that the baby’s being overfed. If mom is breastfeeding, does she notice a pattern between something she’s eating and the baby’s temperament? Does baby have any symptoms of reflux? If so, I would tell the mother to consider a diet change and probiotics. (Many moms are unaware that official medical protocol is “Watch and Wait” for the first year of life. Reflux medications often exacerbate the condition in the long run, and make it more difficult for the child to heal.) I also advise the mother to check for a diaper rash, string wrapped around a finger or toe, or anything else that might be making the child uncomfortable. With a newborn, though, I’d also remind parents that babies cry. It’s just what they do. And while there is usually a reason we can point to and fix, that’s not always the case.

WHAT’S YOUR TAKE ON PUTTING BABIES TO SLEEP ON THEIR STOMACH? Officially, it’s safer to put them on their backs. That being said, if a mother wants to put her baby on his stomach, I will inform her of the protocol but add that it’s ultimately her decision. It’s important for mothers to know that when the baby learns to turn over on his own, he does not have to be turned back to his back anymore.

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CAN YOU SHARE A MEMORABLE STORY YOU’VE HAD WITH A CLIENT? I once had a client whose husband was very involved in the sleep training process. He was very on board, listening to my advice, and participating in the program. One day, when he was off from work, he told his wife to go take a nap while he put the baby in for his. The woman woke up from her nap and heard her husband do the whole routine. She listened as he put the baby into his crib and turned on the noise machine. But then, she heard the baby babbling and gurgling for a long, long time. Wondering why he wasn’t falling asleep, she came out of bed and walked into his room. The lights were on!

SO DO YOU RECOMMEND THAT THE MOMS DO THE WORK? (Laughs.) I love it when dads are on board, but shutting lights is just the kind of thing that most mothers would never forget to do.

WHAT’S THE QUESTION YOU GET MOST IN YOUR PRACTICE? How do I get my baby to sleep through the night? Hands down!

WHAT’S YOUR TAKE ON LETTING A CHILD “CRY IT OUT?” IS IT AN EFFECTIVE APPROACH? I have two problems with CIO. First, this method does not give the parent the best bang for her buck. It’s so much easier to implement healthy habits from the start. There are many tips she can implement with a newborn right from day one, and then have her child naturally transition into being a superstar sleeper. A parent who teaches her baby healthy sleeping skills will likely get a full night of sleep starting from somewhere in the 3–4 month mark without any additional effort or tearful nights. (CIO should never be implemented with children below 6 months of age). But my second problem with CIO is really the main one: inconsistency. It’s so easy for the parents to think that they will be able to do it, to tell themselves that they’re going to make it work. But when push comes to shove, many parents find that they just can’t do it. Listening to their child cry and cry and cry is not supposed to be easy! And then, after a half a night, or even two nights, they’ll cave in and return to the old bad habits. This is not fair to the baby and will make it harder for the parents to try to teach

the child proper sleep skills in the future. I recommend that parents start off with something that they can do and that they will be consistent with as that will be most beneficial for everyone.

HOW DO YOU REACH OUT TO MOTHERS TO OFFER YOUR GUIDANCE AND SUPPORT? I provide support to fellow mothers in several ways. In addition to the paid personalized support, I share tips, tricks, and information about babies’ and children’s sleep in a biweekly newsletter and on my blog. I am also the exclusive sleep coach for Rockabye Baby, a baby nurse agency. In their quest to provide nurses to help new mothers replenish their strength, they realized that many mothers simply do not know enough about their children’s sleep, and as a result they struggle to get the sleep they need. Thus, they instituted a hotline for their clients that features lectures by a qualified lactation consultant and me, so we can assist new mothers in the process, as well as provide an opportunity for them to reach out to us for a reduced price.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION THAT MOTHERS HAVE IN REGARDS TO SLEEP TRAINING? They believe that supermoms don’t need sleep—that they’ll rock the baby all night and they’ll be okay. On the contrary, a supermom is somebody who gets the sleep she needs. There are definitely tzaddikim among us who aren’t bound by the laws of nature, but we regular moms can’t do that. We really need our sleep so we can be happy mothers. We set the tone in the home and everything just moves so much smoother and more harmoniously when a mother is well rested. A sleep deprived mother is less likely to be vibrant, to be at her best, or to make smart decisions. The only way she can get the sleep she needs is if she teaches her baby to sleep independently. By doing so, she is ultimately benefiting the entire home. I discussed my program with my rav, and I also spoke with Rebbetzin Salomon, Rav Mattisyahu’s rebbetzin. She said I could give over in her name and name of the Mashgiach that “gentle sleep training where the parent remains in the room as the baby learns to sleep, is seicheldig and completely fine to implement.” More importantly than anything, I want women to get their sleep.

Shifra can be contacted through The Wellspring.

The Wellspring | November 2016 66

Wellbeing

From the Ground Up By Dr. Joel Rosenshein

It’s Time to Tell How to inform a child about a loved one‘s illness In this new series, the renowned Dr. Rosenshein will discuss how to transmit vital coping skills to children who are touched by serious illness. Although withholding sad news from a child or adolescent may seem tempting for a parent, who is obviously acting only with the child in mind, the consequences can be severe. It may be easier to brush the child’s questions away and promise him a bright and dandy future, but ultimately, children will find out the truth. They are smarter than we think. And when they do, it can be very painful when they realize that they were left out of the equation. Once a child starts to pick up the signals that things are not okay with a loved one, the questions start to brew in his mind. If they are left unanswered, he may fear the worst for the rest of his childhood, even if the issue is resolved. So when a family member is, G-d forbid, stricken with illness, it is crucial for parents, preferably with the help of a professional, to make the decision about how and what to tell the rest of the family. Once a parent has determined that it is important for a child to know about a loved one’s illness, explaining the concept to the child requires incredible thought and sensitivity. Of course, the age and maturity of the child play an important role in how the situation will be handled. For example, if we are talking about a girl or boy in their early teens, they will obviously be more aware of the world of illness. In such a case, the teen must be given as much true and complete information as the parent believes they can handle.

A good rule of thumb is to give some information and wait to see if this satisfies them. Only if they ask more questions should the adult provide more information. Withholding information that they’re requesting will only lead to greater anxiety and their independent search for answers, which is obviously worse than for them to hear the truth

In such a case, the teen must be given as much true and complete information as the parent believes she can handle. from a caring adult in their lives. It’s important to stress to children and adolescents that even the doctors don’t have all the answers and certainly not the final answers, and that, as with everything else in the world, only the Ribbono shel Olam can decide the ultimate fate of a cancer patient, or any sick person. Fortunately, we are all well aware of people with severe cancers who have survived against all odds and went on to lead healthy, productive lives. On the other hand, there are cases of patients whose situations deteriorated despite

the positive prognosis they were given. It’s always important to stress to children that the power of prayer, Tehillim, and doing additional mitzvos can serve as a merit for a recovery or to make the situation easier. If a child is in the range of 8-11 years old, however, parents must be more careful in regards to the amount of information they disclose. Burdening these growing preteens with information they can’t yet digest or grasp may be overwhelming. Parents must also be careful not to predict a positive outcome, because only Hashem knows if the situation will turn out well, with His help. A child’s disappointment due to a negative outcome, G-d forbid, will be intensified by feelings of anger and distrust toward the adults who promised him otherwise. But no matter how ill their loved one is, having the children see their mother, father, or sibling in the hospital goes a long way to reassuring them that the doctors are doing all that is possible toward the patient’s recovery. Distancing them from the patient will only exacerbate their anxiety and thoughts of a negative reality. I’ve seen numerous children in hospitals who, despite their suffering from cancer, are spirited and show very positive reactions to their illness. Having their loved ones sing or do tricks for them is a very positive way to have them feel that all will be well.

Dr. Joel Rosenshein, PhD, is the founder of Ptach worldwide and has been in private practice for children, couples, and families since 1962. He was the citywide director for the NYC Board of Education for special education evaluation for two decades. Today, Dr. Rosenshein is a consultant for RCCS, Torah Umesorah, Ptach, and several other organizations, and a board member at Agudas Yisrael. The Wellspring welcomes educators, therapists, and childhood intervention specialists to contribute to this column. Please send a bio of your work to info@wellspringmagazine.com

Cheshvan 5777 | The Wellspring 67

Wellbeing

Emotional Wellness By Drs. David H. Rosmarin & Peryl Agishtein

anxious to know How does everyone else do it? Dear readers, Every month, hundreds of individuals from around the world contact us in their quest for information about anxiety and related mental health concerns. The one thing all callers have in common is that they’re all “anxious to know.” They want practical advice about how to handle anxiety-related concerns that are based on current evidence and consistent with Torah values. Being “anxious to know” has become very common. In every calendar year, 18.1% of Americans have a diagnosable anxiety disorder, amounting to a staggering 57 million people. Unfortunately, only 36.9% of clinically anxious individuals receive minimally adequate treatment, suggesting that most individuals suffer in silence. The real tragedy, however, is that anxiety disorders and many other mental health conditions are readily curable with psychological treatments that are well-validated by science. Furthermore, the principles of evidence-based treatments for anxiety and related problems are typically not only consistent with Torah values but embody them, such that by participating in treatments patients can experience spiritual growth and become healthier, happier, and more functional. We are therefore pleased to introduce a new bimonthly column, which will provide a glimpse into the questions we receive and our approach to treatment. Readers who are “anxious to know” are encouraged to write in questions. We look forward to hearing from you!

I’m generally a calm person with a healthy degree of bitachon, but when it comes to money, I become very anxious. I work as an occupational therapist and baruch Hashem earn a decent salary, with benefits. My husband is in kollel and brings in some extra money through tutoring, binding seforim, etc. But after three years of marriage and two children, our expenses seem to just keep ballooning, without enough of a growth in our earning potential. We always live paycheck-to-paycheck, don’t save enough, and once in a while can’t make it through the month without borrowing from my parents. My friends in similar situations all seem to be doing okay — when we talk about money they don’t sound stressed, and I’m always the friend who brings the homemade cookies instead of the expensive candy platter to a kiddush, or who wants to get together in the pizza store instead of the café. Every time we have a big expense, or any loss in income, or really when the beginning of the month (with rent and childcare due) rolls around, I feel tense and anxious, wondering how we will pay for everything and whether we’ll ever be able to hold our head above water. Signed, How does everyone else do it?

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A First of all, welcome to the club. Money tops the list of sources of stress for everyone, and 72% of American adults report experiencing stress about their finances (APA Stress in America survey, 2015). Chances are those friends who seem relatively relaxed also experience financial stress at times, and the answer to “How does everyone else do it?” is that they do it the same way you do it — with significant stress, hard work, and emunah. That said, comparing yourself to others is not the best way to cope with financial stress. Anxiety serves a purpose: to alert us to possible threats. Being anxious only becomes a problem if there’s no realistic basis for it or if it prevents you from functioning and coping with the threat. The first part of alleviating monetary stress is taking a hard look at your finances. If your financial anxiety reflects a legitimate financial problem, your financial well-being must be addressed before the anxiety can be tackled. If you don’t have enough money to make it through the month on a regular basis, it’s time to meet with a financial counselor (Mesila is an organization with many good resources) and construct a good budget and financial plan. Once you’ve reevaluated, adjusted your expectations or earning potential, and are sticking to a budget, don’t expect your anxiety to disappear. There will always be unexpected large expenses, and very few people are wealthy enough to contend with all expenses without some degree of stress. There’s more than one way to cope with this anxiety, from a psychological perspective. Cognitive-behavioral theory, one of the most effective treatments for anxiety, dictates that changing thoughts and behaviors around finances will change emotions. Making behavioral changes to better manage and control your finances (i.e., constructing a financial plan) is a great first step. Since money is never fully in our control, the next step is incorporating cognitive

restructuring regarding your anxieties around money. Lucky for us, Judaism holds a very powerful tool to restructure thoughts of “We’ll never be able to hold our heads above water.” We know that our yearly income was allocated a couple of weeks ago, and that anything we do to earn money is just the necessary hishtadlus. Thus, an adaptive thought to replace maladaptive automatic self-talk about money could be “Hashem is in control. We are doing our best and being realistic, and He will provide.” Similarly, from an attachment perspective, a secure connection to Hashem is correlated with reduced situational and general anxiety. Belief in an omnipotent and loving G-d means that we believe that Hashem can do anything and that everything that happens is for our best. Strengthening your general connection to Hashem is another method of reducing financial (and general!) anxiety. In other words, as you said, bitachon is key to reducing financial stress (as long as your current budget is realistic and sufficient; we don’t rely on miracles). Working on your bitachon requires concrete, daily behaviors that will eventually lead to less stress around money. These might include learning from a sefer on emunah/bitachon nightly; focusing intently on the brachah of “she’asah li kol tzarchi” in birchos hashachar; strengthening your sense of a loving relationship with Hashem (e.g., working on tefillah or ahavas Hashem); or consistently engaging in cognitive restructuring, such as repeating “I have what I need and I need what I have,” when you feel anxiety about money or are jealous of others (see Battle Plans, Heller & Rigler). Use a nightly behavior checklist to keep yourself on track and consistently implement your two to three action goals. All our best, David H. Rosmarin & Peryl Agishtein

David H. Rosmarin, Ph.D., ABPP, is an assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, part-time, and a board certified clinical psychologist. He also directs the Center for Anxiety, which has offices in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Monsey, and Boston. Peryl Agishtein, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist who conducts research on spirituality and attachment. She practices couples and adult psychotherapy in the Center for Anxiety’s Monsey office. Submissions should be sent in via email to anxioustoknow@wellspringmagazine.com. To protect anonymity, identifying details will be changed prior to publication. Questions are welcome about any topic related to mental health treatment.

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Diary By Chani G.

How Maxi UTI Saved My Pregnancy The months that lead up to the

birth of a new child can be uncomfortable and even anxious, but they are mostly an exciting time in a woman’s life. For me, however, my third pregnancy was intensely strained. At 24 weeks, I was diagnosed with my third urinary tract infection. Although UTIs are more common during pregnancy, their recurrence in my case was alarming. In addition to the excruciating pain and discomfort that this infection caused, it also stimulated contractions and the onset of premature labor. Of course, it was frightening for me to think that I would be giving birth so prematurely due to a seemingly minor infection. My fears were amplified by the memories of my second pregnancy, during which a UTI also led to labor, albeit in week 37. Because of my recurrent infections, I was almost always on antibiotics. So as soon as I sensed the slightest contraction, I started yet another round of antibiotics and went to see a urologist. He suggested I take a low dose of antibiotics to ward off another infection and to supplement with cranberry juice and D-Mannose. He explained that UTIs usually occur when the bacteria E.coli enter the urinary tract and attach themselves to the cell walls, and these supplements would help my body fight the bacteria. At the health food store, I was given a bottle of D-Mannose powder and a powdered cranberry supplement. “Oh my,” I thought, “mix a powder and drink that? So not my idea

of a shake! But okay, if that will b’ezras Hashem keep me healthy and out of the hospital, I’ll do it gladly.” But then, as I glanced at the other supplements on the shelf, I saw that I could skip the hassle of preparing and drinking a powdered vitamin. Maxi Health to the rescue! A few pills of Maxi UTI™, I discovered, would give me the right amount of supplements that I needed. Plus, the saleswoman informed me, the cranberry extract in Maxi UTI™ would be more effective than cranberry juice because it contains extracts of the fruit, seeds, skin, fibers, and juice all in one. Maxi UTI™ was Hashem’s incredible gift to me. Indeed, that visit was the last time I needed to see the urologist. In addition to stopping the antibiotics, I didn’t even return for the follow up visit that he initially suggested I make. Besides the fact that my infection had disappeared without a trace, I was taking care of my beautiful, fully-developed new baby, Baruch Hashem!

How has your health and wellbeing improved thanks to Maxi Health? To receive a free bottle of the supplement that changed your life, send a 50-100 word description of your story to info@wellspringmagazine.com. We reserve the right to end this promotion at any time, without notice.

The Wellspring | November 2016 70

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease.

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lead to beautiful destinations.

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Keep your Kiddies Healthy through the Winter! Children are continuously in contact with germs and are particularly susceptible to colds, flues and viruses. A strong immune system provides children with powerful natural defenses against disease. It is impossible to keep children away from germs, but you can help build up their immune system to be as strong as possible! Luckily, Maxi Health can help you protect your children, with specially designed supplements including Kiddie Boost, Panto C Powder and Liquid Kyolic! Jump on board and help your children glide through a disease free winter.

maxihealth.com 800.544.MAXI info@maxihealth.com

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease.

They definitely need a dose of Maxi Health!