Eating the Rainbow
Why Plant-Based Diets Will Save Us
NATURAL SOLUTIONS to Common Ailments FOR PETS
Easy Ways to Reduce Cell Phone RADIATION
Why Plant-Based Diets Will Save Us
NATURAL SOLUTIONS to Common Ailments FOR PETS
Easy Ways to Reduce Cell Phone RADIATION
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Hello and welcome to our March edition. Spring is a glorious time to enjoy outdoor activities in Central Florida.
It’s also is the perfect time to remember that we are what we eat. Are you planting your spring and early summer garden this month? From the many varieties of delicate lettuce and greens to versatile and powerful herbs like oregano, thyme and basil, a single raised bed can provide months of daily salad.
The healing and regenerative power of organic, freshly harvested produce may be life changing, especially for those with chronic illness. Our wise ways section features Dr. Terry Wahls, author of The Wahls Protocol: A Radical New Way to Treat All Chronic Autoimmune Conditions Using Paleo Principles. Wahls promotes several large daily servings of freshly harvested vegetables and fruit, and coined the term, “Mind your Mitochondria”. Our food is converted to energy by mitochondria. Besides this, mitochondria is also responsible for regulating the metabolic activity of the cell, promoting cell multiplication and cell growth. It also detoxes ammonia in the liver cells. Wahls was once confined to a tilt-recline wheelchair after being diagnosed with MS. She now enjoys an active lifestyle and rides her bike to work every day. The protocol she developed to overcome this degenerative disease is detailed in her book. Learn about her journey back to wellness and the ongoing study she’s conducting using her methods to reduce disease progression in MS patients.
Multiple Sclerosis is also the focus of healing ways. Tony Ferro, founder of Change MS explores how to reduce inflammation and promote neuroregeneration through diet modification. Autoimmune diseases like MS respond to behavioral and attitudinal changes. Maintaining a healthy microbiome helps gut integrity, immune balance and overall health.
Eating for kidney health is featured in conscious eating this month. One in seven adults is diagnosed with chronic kidney disease each year. If caught early, within the first three stages, kidneys will respond to lifestyle modifications and alternative interventions. Combining Western treatments and Traditional Chinese Medicine can have a positive impact on even late-stage renal failure. The kidney nurturing recipes include cilantro lime cauliflower rice. See more recipes online at voflnatural.com
High intensity interval training is trending in the fitness industry, with several area gyms offering short-form exercise done in intense bursts. Our fit body section describes the benefits of high-intensity interval training. Though it may look intense, most healthy adults are able to work up to high intensity sessions by starting slowly.
Our tech wellness feature discusses the adverse effects from cell phones, with practical tips to mitigate your exposure. The research in this article is from The Environmental Health Trust, a think tank promoting healthier environment through research, education and policy.
There are many local health related events this month, featured in our local editorial starting on page 4, and also in our calendar at the back of the magazine.
Enjoy reading, and we’ll see you in April!
Rebecca Young, PublisherDuring the month of March, Keith’s Big Box of Rocks—a small family business that offers beautiful crystals and gemstones from all over the world at affordable prices on their online gift store and at their charming brick-and-mortar business in Bunnell—will be featuring crystals that are said to bring abundance in their weekly live auctions, held live on Facebook Wednesday through Sunday starting at 5 p.m.
The crystals that will be available include pyrite, known for strengthening one’s confidence by teaching one that life is full of abundance and endless opportunity; malachite, known to impart the strength and courage to transform any fears or doubts in regard to money; citrine, known to be the most powerful stone for manifesting—will help bring one’s financial goals to life; tiger’s eye, known to be an all-over good luck stone, which has traditionally been associated with money; and green aventurine, well-known for attracting wealth and winning games. Other abundance-attracting crystals that will be available include chrysoprase, clear quartz and amethyst.
For more information, call 407-212-5013 or visit KeithsBigBoxOfRocks.com or Facebook. See ad, page 32.
In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, Heath’s Natural Foods, in New Smyrna Beach—an award-winning health food store and deli owned by the Bennett family—will have a special deli menu on March 17 featuring corned beef and cabbage with Irish potatoes. The vegan side of the hot bar will offer a cabbage and carrot option. A Rockin’ Shamrock Smoothie, with protein powder and spirulina, will also be featured. Heath’s Natural Foods, which has been in operation since 1970 (previously owned by the Heath family), now offers DoorDash and Grubhub for deli items.
Heath’s Natural Foods has the largest selection of supplements, organic produce, natural foods and the best deli in town. They specialize in the finest natural supplements, herbs and extracts; gluten-free products; organic wine and beer and produce; natural pet food and products; environmentally safe cleaning products; and grass-fed beef, organic and free-range chicken, turkey and bacon.
Each day, the deli has fresh organic offerings, including breakfast burritos, house made specialty salads and soups and paninis. The “grab-n-go” section offers tuna salad, deviled eggs, salsa and guacamole when available. There is also a hot bar with vegan and non-vegan entrees. Vegetarian chili is one of three daily soups; all soup stock and broth are house made daily from scratch. The deli has seven signature paninis available with signature sauce, and they are prepared on locally made focaccia and ciabatta.
Heath’s Natural Foods’ deli also has a juice bar that serves organic smoothies, wheat grass juice, and fresh vegetable and citrus juices.
Location: 600 E. 3rd Ave. For more information, call 386-423-5126 or visit HeathsNaturalFoods.com. Also follow them on Instagram and Facebook. See ad, page 13.
Natural Concepts Revisited—a retail store dedicated to health, wellness and sustainable practices in Daytona Beach—has undergone extensive remodeling and is now offering new classes. To show off their brand new look and familiarize folks with all their offerings, they are hosting an open house from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on March 18.
“We have removed all of the rooms in the back of the store and will now be offering classes on yoga, tai chi, kung fu and original strength, and more cooking and gardening classes as well,” shares owner Jo Anne Staley.
During the open house, there will be chair massage available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; demonstrations for yoga, tai chi, kung fu and original strength from 1 to 2 p.m.; and an Aamora demonstration from 2:15 to 2:30 p.m. Food samples will also be available, including kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha, vegan gluten-free desserts and soups.
In addition to locally sourced organic produce, fresh nut milks, local honey and natural grocery items for specialty diets, Natural Concepts Revisited has a café; juice bar; and educational center dedicated to health, wellness and sustainable practices. Organic gardening supplies, including locally made compost and organic fertilizer, are also available.
Location: 142 W. International Speedway Blvd. For more information, call 386-341-5068 or visit Facebook.com/ NaturalConceptsRevisitedLlc. See ad, page 25.
All New U—a practice in Palm Coast that offers aesthetic treatments, fat elimination and muscle-building services, medical-grade products, and an array of health and wellness services—now has Emface, the first and only needle-free procedure that simultaneously treats facial skin and muscles in a 20-minute session. It is a non-invasive treatment that requires no recovery or downtime.
As time goes by, one’s muscle tone gradually decreases to the point the entire face starts to sag.
In addition to losing muscle tone, the constant use of facial muscles for facial expression begins leaving deeper wrinkles on one’s face.
Emface is a revolution in facial treatments. By emitting both synchronized radiofrequency (RF) and high-intensity facial electrical stimulation (HIFES) energies, it simultaneously affects the skin and muscles. It is the first device on the market utilizing the simultaneous application of both these energies.
The synchronized RF remodels and smooths skin by heating the dermis and increasing the levels of collagen and elastin fibers, while the HIFES technology restores and elevates support of facial tissues by selectively contracting muscles and increasing density and quality of muscle structure.
The end result is fewer wrinkles and more lift naturally without needles.
Everyone can benefit from this revolutionary treatment. Emface doesn’t only work on visible facial wrinkles, but also treats deep facial skin layers and selected muscles, so it can be used as a preventive procedure.
Treatment protocol consists usually of four 20-minute treatments, scheduled five to 10 days apart. Aside from facial cleansing, there is no pre- or post-preparation required. This easy procedure simply involves having the person receiving Emface lie down while the applicators are applied over the treatment areas for 20 minutes. During the treatment, they will feel muscle contractions along with a heating sensation, comparable to hot stone massage. Once the procedure is completed, the person can immediately get back to their daily routine.
Location: 7 Florida Park Dr. N., Ste. A, Palm Coast, FL. For more information, call 386-986-8514 or visit AllNewU.com See ad, page 11.
The first annual Flagler Wellness Expo, organized by Palm Coast’s Intuitive Living Institute and sponsored by Natural Awakenings, will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on March 25 and 26 at Flagler Palm Coast High School, in Palm Coast. This will be a chance for attendees to learn about the many healing modalities available in their area that enhance health (physical and mental), wellness and vitality.
“We are thrilled to announce Flagler’s first annual Wellness Expo. This two-day event features a collaboration of all our local wellness professionals to help you thrive,” exclaims Sinead Moffatt, managing director of the institute.
“We have had a tough time these past few years, especially regarding mental and emotional health,” adds Moffatt. “That has been our primary motivation to do this. We wanted the community to come back together and offer solutions to help people connect again and restore a sense of joy, vitality and togetherness.”
The event will include a raffle, giveaways, free sample classes, and live seminars with health and wellness speakers. In addition, folks can learn about upcoming events and activities in their area. “With so many different vendors and exhibitors, plus more than a dozen speakers, there’s sure to be something for everyone,” notes Moffatt. “We can’t wait to see you there.”
The Intuitive Living Institute offers a personalized approach to wellness, helping people raise their vibrational levels and heal on an emotional, physical and mental level. “We also provide Energy Healing Certification, Meditation Teacher Training, weekly Meditation Classes, Lightworker Workshops, Mindfulness for Kids, Soul Yoga Experience, and a Women’s Circle,” shares Moffatt. “In addition, we have an online meditation membership platform for mindfulness and meditation on the go.”
Cost: $5 admission. Location: 5500 State Rte. 100 E. For more information, visit IntuitiveLivingInstitute.org. See ad, page 5.
Empowering Wellness is hosting a wellness retreat in Sedona, Arizona, from April 20 through 23. Attendees will experience a powerful Earth Day weekend like none other, which will include yoga, creating gemstone mala bracelets, massage therapy, ecstatic dance, a cacao ceremony, sound therapy with singing bowls, a traditional sweat lodge, and a sunset hike with a shaman mystic healer that will feature a meditation journey in an energy vortex.
“My true passion is to be able to teach others how to take healing into their own hands and to empower their health and wellness journey,” shares Empowering Wellness owner Leona Douglass, an experienced licensed massage therapist, reiki master, ACE certified personal trainer, theta practitioner, frequency practitioner, shaman and Young Living independent distributor.
“As someone who is very passionate about travel—I’ve traveled to 105 countries—and about all things wellness, it’s a dream of mine to be able to combine the two of them together,” adds Douglass, who helps her clients achieve new levels of health and wellness through bodywork, fitness, aromatherapy, healing workshops and destination wellness retreats.
While enrolled in the fascial stretch therapy program for all three levels at the Stretch to Win Institute, in Chandler, Arizona, Douglass said she would visit Sedona on the weekends and fell in love with the place. “I knew there was something magical and healing about that land, the energy vortexes and practitioners,” she shares. “So I thought to myself, my first destination wellness retreat when the world finally opens back up again is going to be Sedona on Earth Day to celebrate Mother Earth.”
Douglass said the retreat will start with an intention-setting ceremony, during which participants will create their own mala bracelets by tapping into their intuition and seeing what crystals speak to them. She said that this will be something that they’ll always have to remind them of their healing experiences in Sedona. The next morning will kick off with a yoga class. There will then be some free time for participants to shop, have lunch, go to the gym and swim before receiving massage treatments right in their own hotel rooms, so they can completely relax. “That’s the one thing that’s different about a vacation than a retreat,” says Douglass. “After a vacation, nine times out of 10, you go, ‘Man, I need a
vacation from my vacation.’ When you come back from a retreat, you go, ‘Man, I feel retreated, I feel relaxed, I feel rejuvenated.’” That evening, there will be an ecstatic dance DJ, so participants can breathe and experience meditation in movement. Next, there will be a singing bowl practitioner emerging listeners in a south bath, so they will have a chance to relax to vibrations of sound healing. Then participants will step into a cacao ceremony. “Cacao is the number one heart chakra-opening plant medicine,” notes Douglass. “We will actually be serving traditional ceremonial cacao that has been blessed.” She says that participants will breathe their intentions, prayers, aspirations and dreams into the cacao, and then will drink it, inhale and really feel and enjoy the taste of it. “They will feel the energy going right into their energetic heart space,” exclaims Douglass.
After the cacao ceremony, there will be a burn ceremony, where folks will focus on releasing what no longer serves them and call in what they want to truly manifest in their lives. “We are going to burn it in the fire to ignite the healing out into the world, to be able to truly light the fire within, to be able to shine that light out,” Douglass explains. The next day, participants will start off with another beautiful yoga practice, and then will have some time to hydrate, refuel and get ready to go into a traditional shamanic sweat lodge, during which a shaman mystic healer will guide them through the sweat lodge meditation. Next, after some welcome hydration, they will hike during sunset into an energy vortex for an Earth Day meditation celebrating Mother Earth.
During their final morning, there will be a yoga and meditation closing ceremony focusing on their gratitude. Participants will have time to reflect and journal about their healing experiences at the retreat so that they can take this back home with them and share it with others. “As they open their hearts and are able to give love and gratitude and light from within out into the world, they will create a ripple effect for the collective. I truly believe that I was sent on this Earth to be a healer, and I’m healing the world one person at a time,” shares Douglass.
Cost: $2,399 per person; price includes all activities, breakfast, light snacks and lodging (does not include airfare). For more information or to register, visit EmpoweringWellness.me. See ad, page 7.
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A new study may shed light on why some people gain more weight than others regardless of diet and activity levels. Led by researchers at the University of Copenhagen and published in the journal Microbiome, the study found that being overweight may also be related to the makeup of a person’s gut microbiome. The researchers studied 85 overweight adults and found that 40 percent of the participants had more Bacteroides in their gut microbiome, which are more effective at extracting nutrients from food, possibly causing leftover food to be stored as fat. Before they began their study, the researchers had hypothesized that a long digestive travel time would allow people to extract more energy from their food, but they found instead that people with shorter digestive travel times were actually the ones that extracted the most nutrition. Those with Bacteroides had shorter intestinal transit times and higher body weight.
Although human-grade foods for pets are commercially available, little research has been done on their health impacts. A 2021 study published in the Journal of Animal Science compared the fecal output of 12 dogs that ate one of three types of dog food: fresh, human-grade or extruded (kibble). The researchers found that the dogs that were fed fresh and human-grade food excreted about half as much as those that were fed classic, processed dog food. The human-grade foods were also found to be extremely digestible, and the dogs that ate them had to eat less food to maintain the same weight. There were many differences in fecal microbiota among the three diets, and the scientists stated that this was likely because of differences in ingredient source, nutrient concentrations and processing methods.
Stressed college students might benefit by adding walnuts to their diet before their next exam. A randomized clinical trial published in the journal Nutrients sought to investigate the effects of academic stress and daily walnut consumption on mental health, general well-being and gut microbiota in a group of 80 college students. Walnuts are full of nutrients that support brain and gut health, including omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, melatonin (sleep-inducing hormone), polyphenols, folate and vitamin E.
The University of South Australia researchers concluded that daily consumption of one half cup of walnuts improved self-reported mood and mental health status, metabolic biomarkers and sleep quality. The data also suggested that walnuts might counteract the negative effects of academic stress on the gut microbiota in women. The scientists noted that more research was needed with respect to males, as far fewer men participated in this study. They also cautioned that the placebo effect could have influenced results, as this was not a blind study.
A new study conducted by researchers at Brown University has identified certain supplements that may be beneficial for heart health. The meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology reviewed more than 884 studies on 27 types of micronutrient supplements among 883,627 participants and found strong evidence that omega-3 fatty acid, folic acid and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) are micronutrients that reduce cardiovascular risk. Omega-3 fatty acid was found to decrease mortality from cardiovascular disease; folic acid lowered stroke risk; and CoQ10 decreased all-cause mortality. Omega-6 fatty acid, L-arginine, L-citrulline, melatonin, magnesium, vitamin D, zinc, alpha-lipoic acid, catechin, flavanol, curcumin, genistein and quercetin also showed evidence of reducing cardiovascular risk.
Each year, humpback whales migrate from the frigid waters near Alaska and western Canada to the warm waters of Mexico and Hawaii to breed and give birth. At the end of 2022, an extraordi nary whale named Moon made the 3,100-mile journey from British Columbia to Hawaii with a broken back. The Canadian researchers that have been tracking Moon for the past decade discovered that the entire lower portion of her tail was bent into an unnatural “S” shape, presumably as a result of a boat strike.
Researchers speculate the whale made the arduous journey without the use of her tail, essentially using the breaststroke to make her migration. The journey left Moon emaciated when she reached Hawaii, having used up her fat stores and with no hope of recovery, given the scarce food resources in the tropical waters. Moon’s story serves as a cautionary tale for the devastating effects of ship collisions with whales. Boaters are reminded to treat whale areas like school zones and slow down to keep marine creatures safe.
For centuries, brazilwood (Paubrasilia echinata) has been used to make the finest bows for classical stringed instruments due to its unmatched ability to project sound. The wood comes from Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, one of the most threatened biomes in the world. This once abundant wood is now endangered, and its trade is regulated under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
Since 2018, Brazilian authorities have been cracking down on brazilwood smuggling. They’ve confiscated almost 150,000 bows (and sticks) and last year raided 37 properties connected to their manufacture. In November 2022, signatories to the CITES treaty voted to expand restrictions and require permits to export newly made brazilwood bows. The classical music industry and several of its stars have voiced their opposition to such restrictions, but ecologists assert it is the only way to save the species.
When it comes time to replace the water heater, homeowners have an opportunity to save money and significantly lower their carbon footprint by choosing more efficient appliances. In the U.S., most homes are equipped with water heaters that require a large storage tank. The water has to be heated continually, leading to $400 to $600 water heating bills every year.
A tankless model requires less space, lasts longer and costs less to operate. Because it does not hold water, cold water flows into the unit and is heated only when needed. This can save energy because the unit does not need to heat gallons of water that aren’t being used.
One drawback is that tankless devices may require a gas line and may be a challenge for older homes because of the necessary permits and electrical upgrades. Whether it has a tank or not, choose an Energy Star-certified model, which is deemed to be more efficient and often comes with a rebate or tax credit. Visit EnergyStar.gov for more information.
Some people may opt for a solar water heating system, which can cut annual hot water costs in half. Homes that generate their own power with solar panels may eliminate the annual cost altogether.
Another option is a heat pump water heater that uses 70 percent less energy than standard water heaters and is currently eligible for a $300 federal tax credit. According to Energy Saver, a U.S. Department of Energy consumer resource (Energy.gov), heat pump water heaters use electricity to move heat from one place to another instead of generating heat directly.
After installing a new unit, be sure to recycle the old water heater. Ask the retailer of the new appliance if they participate in a take-back program, or coordinate with the installer to arrange for proper recycling.
If the water heater doesn’t need replacement yet, consider that for every 10-degree decrease in the temperature setting on a conventional tank there is a corresponding 3 to 5 percent energy savings. Lower temperatures also reduce mineral buildup and corrosion in the tank and pipes.
Keep in mind that the easiest way to lower a household’s water heating is simply to use less hot water. Look for ways to decrease the family’s use of hot water by taking baths or shorter showers, washing laundry with cold water and running the dishwater on the energy-efficient setting.
Largest Selection of:
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** Our Hot Bar has Daily Vegan Options **
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“The Mouth Is To Humans What Roots Are To Plants”
An AMD’s Mission: To help you turn back illness and turn on wellness naturally through our evidence-based impaired Mouth diagnosis and Holistic Mouth solutions
Your Pain, Fatigue & Chronic Illness May Be Rooted in:
1. Crowded Teeth & Deficient Jaws
2. Pinched Airway
3. Clicking/Popping Jaw Joints
4. Teeth Grinding
5. Tongue-Tie & Abnormal Swallowing
6. Weak Chin, Double Chin
7. Sunken Mid-Face, Flat Cheekbones
8. Teeth Pulled & Spaces Closed For Braces.
Impaired Mouth Symptoms Short List:
1. Aches & Pains in Head, Jaws, Neck Shoulders & Back
2. Fatique, Brain Fog, Lack of Motivation
3. Post-Nasal Drip & Frequent Colds & Flue
4. Teeth Grinding & Jaw Joint Troubles
5. Snoring, Sleep Apnea, CPAP Intolerance
6. Anxiety, Depression, Irritability/Hostility
7. “Empty Tank” From Adrenal Fatique, PMS/ED
8. Food Cravings; Caffeine, Sugar, Chocolate, Energy Drinks
“Get your airway back, get your sleep back, get your life back” – Angela, patient “Impaired Mouth Diagnosis should have been the first course in dental school.”
– Dr. J. Yelle, Monument, CO
I think music has the power to transform people, and in doing so, it has the power to transform situations—some large and some small.
Joan Baez
Many of us have come across the term “plant-based eating”. Perhaps the regimen was recommended to us by a medical or nutritional professional. We may have read about it in a magazine or seen a documentary on the subject. Scientists around the globe have studied this lifestyle choice, and persuasive evidence is mounting that eating a preponderance of foods from plant sources has health merits.
The concept is attributed to T. Colin Campbell, Ph.D., the Jacob Gould Schurman professor emeritus of nutritional biochemistry at Cornell University. Based on his extensive research, he has advocated a low-fat, whole food, plant-based diet since the 1980s, and his commentary appears in Forks Over Knives, an influential 2011 documentary on the subject that is still worth viewing.
Americans love their cheeseburgers and french fries, and breaking a habit that we thoroughly enjoy might be challenging at first. But we need not completely ban such delights from our menu, so long as our plates are brimming with vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, beans, healthy oils, nuts and seeds most of the time. Gradually transitioning to a whole food, plant-based, low-fat diet is the winning formula for positive change and long-term compliance.
Here are five compelling reasons to make this promising dietary shift.
As so many Americans struggle with chronic health issues, including obesity, diabetes and heart disease, physicians are hard-pressed to find the right combination of treatments to help their patients lead healthier lives. At the same time, healthcare costs continue to skyrocket. In 2020, health spending rose to $4.1 trillion, or $12,530 per capita, according to the American Medical Association.
In a 2013 article published in The Permanente Journal, California physicians surveyed leading research and case studies and found that plant-based diets offer patients a low-risk, cost-effective intervention to regulate weight, blood pressure, blood sugar
and cholesterol levels. They also asserted that such eating regimens could reduce the number of medications patients would have to take for chronic disease, and that physicians should recommend such diets to all of their patients, especially those suffering from high blood pressure, diabetes, cardiovascular disease or obesity.
Besides saving money on drugs and medical procedures, a plant-based menu has never been easier or more affordable. According to recent data conducted by the UK nonprofit Veganuary, plant-based meals eaten at home cost 40 percent less than meat- or fish-based meals and take one-third less time to prepare.
“The most powerful tool I discovered while in practice for both preventing and treating chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure and arthritis was the implementation of a plant-based nutritional plan to a patient’s life,” says Ted Crawford, a board-certified family physician featured in two inspiring documentaries about the life-changing benefits of a plant-based diet: Eating You Alive and PlantWise
The latest food trend is a “burger” made entirely of plants. The race is on to see which one looks and tastes closest to a juicy, all-beef patty. Whether it’s mushrooms posing as “steak” or wheat-based seitan kneaded into “chicken”, recipes catering to carnivores have their audience. For some, these tasty alternatives may offer a path toward becoming a vegetarian or vegan.
Oven-roasted on a sheet pan, splashed with extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice, sprinkled with fresh herbs and spices, served with a creamy dip, slow-cooked in a crockpot, baked into a pie, frothed into a sweet smoothie or freshly pulled from the vine, consider the fact that whole, plant-based foods taste delicious on their own and deserve the spotlight.
They are good and good for us, packed with nutrition while low in fat and calories. The vibrant colors of fruits and vegetables—as varied as the rainbow—are evidence of the many healthful attributes they offer. Ditching animal fats, white flour and sugar in favor of fresh, whole plant foods found at a local farmers market ensures a rich intake of vitamins, minerals, trace elements, phytonutrients, fiber, antioxidants, flavonoids, protein, fiber and more—the building blocks of a robust, disease-fighting body.
Those that believe a plant-based diet is too limiting might be surprised to learn that there is a wealth of meat-free culinary possibilities. Garth Davis, M.D., author of Proteinaholic: How Our Obsession With Meat Is Killing Us and What We Can Do About It, notes, “Just 12 plants and five animals compose about 75 percent of the world’s food, and yet there are approximately 300,000 known edible plant species, only about 150 of which are used commonly around the world.”
There are so many plant-derived flavors and recipes yet to explore. Try a new plant-based recipe weekly. Let the kids select their favorite fruits and veggies to prepare. Enjoy reimagining old favorites like lasagna, enchiladas, chili and tacos. Simply swap out the meat in favor of beans, tofu, tempeh or faux meat products, which have become quite sophisticated in recent years.
Documentary Films championing plant-based diets
n PlantPure Nation
n Forks Over Knives
n Eating You Alive
n What the Health
Websites offering tips, recipes and advice for plant-prominent menus
n HappyHerbivore.com
n ForksOverKnives.com
n NoraCooks.com
n CleanFoodDirtyGirl.com
Cookbooks that make whole, plant-based foods shine
n Oh She Glows Every Day, by Angela Lindon
n The Happy Herbivore Cookbook, by Lindsay S. Nixon
n The PlantPure Nation Cookbook, by Kim Campbell
n The China Study Cookbook, by LeAnne Campbell
While acute inflammation is a protective bodily response to heal infections and repair tissues, metabolic inflammation—or metaflammation—refers to chronic, systemic inflammation. According to a 2020 study published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, metabolic inflammation is associated with increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and cardiovascular disease.
Numerous studies have explored the inflammatory and anti-inflammatory effects of foods. According to a 2021 article in Harvard Health Publishing, the following foods cause inflammation: refined carbohydrates like white bread; fried foods like french fries; sodas and other sugary drinks; red meat; processed meat, including hot dogs, sausage and cold cuts; and margarine, shortening and lard. Conversely, the best anti-inflammatory foods are tomatoes; olive oil; leafy, green vegetables such as spinach, kale and collards; nuts like almonds, walnuts, pistachios and pecans; and fruit such as apples, strawberries, blueberries, cherries and oranges. Omega-3 fatty acid-rich fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines are also recommended for their anti-inflammatory properties.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, total greenhouse gas emissions from global livestock represents 14.5 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. Cattle raised for both beef and milk are the animal species responsible for the most emissions, which include methane and represent about 65 percent of the livestock sector’s emissions.
Industrially produced meat is also a leading contributor of global deforestation and habitat loss as large swaths of the Amazon and other land masses are cleared for cattle ranching and to produce animal feed.
According to a new model developed by California scientists and published in the journal PLOS Climate, a global phase-out of animal agriculture and a shift to plant-based diets over the next 15 years would have the same effect as a 68 percent reduction of carbon dioxide emissions through the end of 2100, thereby boosting humanity’s chances of avoiding the projected devastation of climate change. Such benefits would result from a decline in the methane and nitrous oxide emissions associated with industrialized meat production, coupled with a recovery of natural ecosystems as fewer forests and land masses are cleared for animal feed production.
Sarah Thomsen Ferreira, an integrative registered dietician and manager of clinical nutrition at the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine (CCCFM), notes, “Certain foods and nutrients help your brain to make chemicals that can impact your mood, attention and focus, while other foods can zap your energy.” The CCCFM recommends a diet that combines complex carbohydrates with lean proteins and colorful produce. While lean proteins may include white-fleshed fish and white-meat poultry, healthy, plant-based, lean proteins are also found in beans, peas, lentils and tofu.
Diet can support emotional well-being and perhaps even help ward off depression and anxiety. A 2017 clinical trial explored how a plant-based diet, daily exercise and mindfulness techniques would affect 500 adult men and women diagnosed with moderate to severe depression and anxiety. After 12 weeks, participants reported improvements in depression and anxiety, according to the study abstract published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice
Eating a plant-based diet makes sense on many levels. Make the switch.
Kiki Powers is a health writer, blogger and national speaker specializing in plant-based nutrition and healthy green living. Learn more at RawKiki.com.
Terry Wahls, M.D., is a certified practitioner at the Institute for Functional Medicine, as well as clinical professor of medicine at the University of Iowa, where she conducts clinical trials testing the effect of therapeutic diet and lifestyle to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms. She is the author of The Wahls Protocol: A Radical New Way to Treat All Chronic Autoimmune Conditions Using Paleo Principles, as well as an accompanying cookbook, The Wahls Protocol Cooking for Life
When Wahls was diagnosed with MS and later relegated to a tilt-recline wheelchair in the early 2000s, she decided to fight back. Drawing upon her medical background, she identified certain nutrients that were critical for brain health and started taking supplements. The disease’s progression slowed as a result, spurring her to dig deeper. Since then, through rigorous scientific study and numerous clinical trials, Wahls has developed groundbreaking dietary and lifestyle recommendations that alleviate autoimmune disease symptoms. No longer bound to a wheelchair, she bikes to work every day and stands as a living testament to the power of tenacity and strenuous scientific inquiry.
The protocol is a lifestyle that supports the steadily improving health of everyone, not just MS patients. It focuses on eating more vegetables and fruits, and ensuring sufficient protein. It reduces or eliminates added sugars, ultra-processed foods, dairy and gluten-containing grains. While the diet may get more complex, a great place for anyone to start is including more non-starchy vegetables, less processed food and more meals cooked at home. The protocol also includes lifestyle interventions, such as time in nature, meditation, mindfulness and physical activity. Even for patients who are wheelchair-bound, going from chair to bed, exercise will improve their quality of life. It is a way of approaching living that creates a more healthy, nurturing environment.
Seeing what happens with brain volume and quality of life. We hypothesize that lifestyle changes will get the rate of brain volume loss to match that of healthy aging. MS patients have brains that are shrinking three times faster than in healthy aging. This increases the risk for anxiety, depression and early cognitive decline. Our study will be the largest and longest dietary intervention study done in the setting of relapsing-remitting MS. We are recruiting people ages 18 to 70 diagnosed
with MS. During the participants’ three visits, they will complete surveys, conduct functional tests, provide blood and saliva samples, and get an MRI. The participants will be divided into three groups. One will follow a modified paleo diet; the second an olive oil ketogenic, time-restricted diet; and the third will be the control group. We are optimistic that the first two groups will get to healthy aging, and the control arm will likely improve, as well.
Fasting improves metabolic flexibility—the ability to switch between protein, fat and glucose for fuel. Fasting for two days increases stem cells. While periodic fasting is beneficial for metabolism and regenerative processes, it is hard to sustain because of our strong biologic drive to eat and dislike for being hungry. An easier dietary pattern to sustain long term is time-restricted eating in a window of six to eight hours. Our current clinical trial incorporates this eating pattern.
How important managing stress is. When I was diagnosed with MS, I could tell that stress made my symptoms worse. I feel I would have done much better had I maintained my meditation. I am fond of hormetic stress, that “sweet spot” where stress could be beneficial. Without stress, our bones and muscles disappear. Without the stress of having to learn, our brain disappears. We just need an equal measure of relaxation and recovery.
You can reverse symptoms of MS and restore function. You can have a great and meaningful life at your level of function. It is important to find joy, gratitude and
purpose in life as it’s unfolding now, and doing so will help with the energy and commitment needed to do the work that can change the direction of your healing journey.
To learn more about Wahls’ studies, visit wahls.lab.uiowa.edu. To participate, visit wahls.lab.uiowa.edu/join-study or contact the study team at MSDietStudy@healthcare.uiowa.edu.
Citarella is a registered dietitian specializing in neurological nutrition and autoimmune disease in the Buffalo, N.Y., area.
Our kidneys are prodigious multitaskers. Through the production of urine, they filter toxins, excrete waste and balance bodily fluids. They also produce certain hormones that regulate blood pressure and aid in other vital functions. While the kidneys don’t usually fail all at once, their effectiveness can deteriorate slowly over years, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) is most often the result of uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure.
Simple blood and urine tests help physicians evaluate kidney function and diagnose CKD, which is divided into five stages. The first three stages are mild or moderate, and can respond well to lifestyle modifications and alternative interventions, while the more severe, later
stages become increasingly more complex to treat and may require dialysis to mechanically perform the kidneys’ functions. In end-stage CKD, many patients are relegated to dialysis treatments several times a month to prevent the accumulation of deadly toxins, while many wait and hope for a life-saving transplant.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one in seven adults are diagnosed annually. Most of these 37 million Americans do not feel ill or notice symptoms until they are in advanced stages of the disease, which is why people with diabetes and high blood pressure should be tested regularly and take steps to protect their kidneys. Managing CKD requires a multilevel approach,
including lifestyle and diet changes, use of prescribed medications, avoidance of kidney-harming toxins like alcohol and cigarettes, and close supervision by a doctor that specializes in kidney disease (nephrologist) to ensure that other prescribed medications and over-the-counter or herbal treatments are safe.
Integrative and holistic approaches may be of help for those in earlier stages of kidney disease or for those striving to prevent it. “I have been really blessed to be connected with a global team of people who, like myself and everyone I work with, understand that kidney disease is treatable, and the recovery of kidney function is actually possible,” says Fiona Chin, an Australia-based naturopath and co-founder of KidneyCoach.com Chin adds that she and her colleagues have witnessed significant patient improvement from tailored diet and lifestyle regimens during and after diagnosis, especially when root causes are addressed.
The Kidney-Friendly Kitchen
Promising research published last year in Frontiers of Pharmacology shows that combining Western treatments and Traditional Chinese Medicine can have a positive impact on even late-stage renal failure. Isaac Eliaz, M.D., an integrative medical doctor and founder of Amitabha Medical Clinic, in Santa Rosa, California, says, “Preventing and reducing chronic inflammation is a critical aspect of minimizing CKD risk. An anti-inflammatory diet, moderate exercise program and attention to stress reduction all work to decrease the pro-inflammatory milieu.” He also high-
lights the importance of protecting and boosting beneficial gut bacteria, which can be addressed with supplements or prebiotic foods like garlic, leeks, onions and jicama.
Piling whole, plant-plentiful goodness onto our plates and embracing an alkaline diet are key measures in the prevention of CKD by lowering the risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Mayo Clinic offers renal-supportive recipes with fruits, vegetables and grains like quinoa. It also recommends avoiding many packaged and processed foods that have phosphorus added to prolong shelf life and enhance taste, such as convenience foods, sodas and sports drinks, flavor-enhanced meats and processed cheeses.
Jarrod Cooper, ND, founder of Advanced Functional Medicine, underscores the importance of nixing pro-inflammatory foods such as sugars, refined carbohydrates, excessive red meat, trans and saturated fats, caffeine and alcohol. Alcohol negatively impacts liver function, and over time reduces blood flow to the kidneys, leading to CKD, he says. That extra glass of wine can also crank up blood pressure, a surefire path to renal compromise.
Kidney-loving fruits, according to Cleveland Urology Associates, include pineapple, cranberries, red grapes and apples, all of which pack an anti-inflam-
Chin notes that although salt is essential for nerve and muscle function, a balancing of fluids in the blood and healthy blood pressure, not all salt is beneficial. “Salt is a healthy thing to have in your diet in moderation and in the right form,” she asserts. “Table salt is manufactured salt that is stripped of its natural minerals. During salt processing, the balance of sodium to other valuable minerals is lost. Most salt companies also add anti-caking agents that contain aluminum.” Chin recommends good-quality Himalayan salt or sea salt that also contains traces of other natural minerals.
Various types of seaweeds, like dulce, nori and kombu, are natural sources of sodium that are safe for people that do not have kidney disease. They offer significant benefits for inflammation reduction, blood sugar balance and heart health, including lower blood pressure. Sea vegetables have also been shown to help reduce the risk of kidney stones by inhibiting the formation of calcium oxalate.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and host of multimedia art exhibits intended for healing the community. Connect at Wildflower Lady.com.
YIELD: 6 SERVINGS
1 head cauliflower, chopped (or 6 cups)
1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 garlic cloves
¼ tsp pepper
¼ tsp salt
3 Tbsp fresh lime juice
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Rinse the cauliflower and pat dry. Chop into florets, then pulse in a food processor or blender. Alternatively, the cauliflower can be left whole and grated with a box grater. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic for a few minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Increase heat to medium high and add cauliflower. Sauté about 5 minutes.
Transfer to a bowl and toss with salt, pepper, lime juice and cilantro.
Excerpted from Multiple Sclerosis Diet Plan and Cookbook. Copyright © 2019 Noelle Citarella. Used with permission from Rockridge Press, Emeryville, CA. All rights reserved.
For people with multiple sclerosis (MS), the concept of “thriving” is becoming increasingly attainable thanks to advances in lifestyle-related research. While MS is not yet curable, life choices that reduce inflammation and promote neuroregeneration can slow or reverse disease progression. This is great news for nearly 1 million Americans living with MS, as estimated by a 2019 National Multiple Sclerosis Association study.
Tony Ferro, the founder of Change MS, credits diet modifications for improving his own symptoms of numbness, tingling, blurred vision, extreme fatigue, brain fog and depression. “It was hard work, but the more I learned and understood, the more I applied and the better I felt,” he says. Recognizing the transformative power of behavioral and attitudinal choices, his nonprofit helps people with MS adopt a wellness mindset and learn strategies to achieve their fullest potential.
According to a 2018 review article published in Current Nutrition Reports, a number of recent studies provide strong preliminary evidence that diet can influence the rise and progression of MS and its symptoms. Large-scale clinical trials are needed to be certain, but the emerging research suggests that the right foods not only provide essential nutrients for cellular function and repair, but also offer anti-inflammatory effects that slow MS activity, protect the nervous system from further damage and allow for nervous-system repair.
A study spearheaded by Terry Wahls, M.D., at the University of Iowa, found a significant improvement in fatigue, quality of life and mental health in MS patients following a modified paleo diet that was rich in certain vitamins, minerals, amino acids and enzymes that have been found to support energy production and nerve repair.
Vegetables should make up the bulk of each meal, followed by a
smaller portion of fruits. Eat many different-colored varietals to benefit from a full gamut of bioactive compounds. Consume sulfur-rich foods like broccoli, cabbage, asparagus and leafy greens daily. Quality protein is essential, including omega-3-rich fish, like salmon, twice weekly. Saturated fats found in butter, cheese and red meat are associated with inflammation and should be limited. Use olive oil, which contains more than 30 neuroprotective antioxidants and has been shown to reduce inflammation and promote immune tolerance.
An elimination diet may identify food triggers that exacerbate MS symptoms.
Most people need 25 to 30 grams of fiber daily. Consume fermented foods, such as pickled vegetables and kefir, as well as prebiotic ingredients like onions, garlic, oats, bananas, apples, cocoa and flax seeds. The microbial fermentation of prebiotic fiber and phytonutrients produces beneficial byproducts including vitamin K, biotin, neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, and short-chain fatty acids, which help promote gut integrity, mood, immune balance and overall health.
Studies have found that fasting for 12 to 16 hours increases cell repair and positively impacts hormone balance, metabolism and weight. Start with an overnight fast of 12 hours and slowly extend the fasting period one hour at a time to lengthen the body repair window.
The body does most of its restorative work while we sleep. Adequate, quality slumber is crucial for healthy immune function, balanced hormones and tissue repair. Ensure that the bedroom
is quiet, dark and cool. To keep circadian cycles on track, get a daily dose of sunlight. Consider taking melatonin, L-theanine, lemon balm, holy basil, reishi mushrooms or other natural supplements recommended by a healthcare provider, as needed.
For people with MS, regular physical activity can improve their quality of life. According to Dr. Lacey Bromley, a physical therapist who specializes in neurological rehabilitation, “Study after study examining the influence of exercise and physical rehabilitation on persons with MS continue to provide positive outcomes. With the correct rehabilitation program, there is ample opportunity for the central nervous system to recover lost function by enhancing previous motor programs or developing new neural pathways.”
Fluids are essential for important bodily functions, including digestion, nutrient absorption, temperature regulation and toxin excretion. They also help prevent constipation.
Bladder dysfunction, a common MS symptom, leads many patients to restrict fluid intake. This is inadvisable because even mild dehydration can promote fatigue, cause urinary tract infections and impair cognitive function and exercise performance. A better approach is to decrease caffeine and alcohol consumption while slowly increasing fluid intake to build up a tolerance for additional fluids.
By focusing more attention on the delights that can be added rather than what is taken away, people with MS can move forward on a much brighter path.
“We want to support our cells, brain and body with the nutrients we need to thrive, not just survive,” Ferro says. “Make small, obtainable goals, stay consistent and keep a journal to track your food, symptoms and journey along the way.”
Noelle Citarella is a registered dietitian specializing in neurological nutrition and autoimmune disease in the Buffalo, N.Y., area.
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts may sound like a trendy buzzword reserved only for experienced athletes, but this versatile, short-form exercise is safe and effective for just about everybody, including beginners, as long as it is done properly. According to Bogdan Goia, fitness expert and founder of Far Hills Fitness, in New Jersey, “HIIT training can benefit almost any age demographic, from teenagers to clients in their 70s and 80s.”
“In a recent study, even menopausal women diagnosed with osteoporosis successfully completed 13 months of high-impact HIIT with a very high adherence rate, with no injuries and high satisfaction ratings,” shares Debra Atkinson, a medical exercise specialist, certified strength and conditioning coach, and founder of Flipping 50 (FlippingFifty.com).
A HIIT workout consists of a series of short bursts of intense activity interspersed with periods of rest or low-intensity movement called “active recovery”. A session is deemed to be high intensity when it is at or near peak effort, which translates to an eight or nine out of 10 on the exercise intensity scale, or 80 to 95 percent of an individual’s maximum heart rate. Such exertion is characterized by heavy sweating and an inability to say more than a few words without gasping for breath.
While HIIT workouts provide many of the same benefits as traditional, “steady state” exercise training, where the required amount of effort remains relatively consistent, HIIT sessions are typically shorter in duration, ranging anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes. HIIT is the perfect solution for busy people that are short on time or those hesitant to commit to longer exercise routines.
The exercise format is easily adaptable to most types of physical activities, such as running, weightlifting, swimming or biking, as long as a high level of intensity can be maintained. Adding to the convenience factor, HIIT does not require a gym membership or access to specialized equipment.
HIIT workouts have been the subject of numerous studies and have been shown to help with fat loss, improved metabolism and muscle gain. One study found that participants burned 25 to 30 percent more calories during a HIIT workout than in other forms of exercise. Because HIIT boosts metabolism, calorie burn has also been shown to last beyond the workout.
Researchers have discovered other health benefits, from reducing blood sugar levels, resting heart rate and blood pressure, to balancing hormones, slowing the rate of cellular aging and even increasing longevity.
The practice also reduces the wear and tear that chronic cardio can inflict on the body. While federal guidelines currently recommend 150 to 300 minutes per week of moderate exercise, only 75 minutes per week are recommended
when the exercise is vigorous.
For those looking to improve aerobic fitness, intervals typically involve a one-to-one or one-to-two work-to-rest ratio. For example, in a one-to-one cardio workout, the person would exercise strenuously for 30 seconds and rest for 30 seconds.
If the goal is to gain strength, longer rest intervals are needed, with at least a one-to-five work-to-rest ratio. A person might exercise for 30 seconds, followed by 150 seconds of rest, for example, allowing their targeted muscles to recover and heart rate to drop before the next exertion.
HIIT should not be performed daily or when energy levels are low, to avoid injury and give the body enough time between workouts to rest and repair. Atkinson cautions, “Injury rates increase considerably doing more than 50 minutes per week of HIIT, due to the additional stress and need for recovery between. The good news is, there’s no need to do more. Short sessions actually get the best results.”
According to Goia, “I believe the key is to have a fitness professional select the exercise, monitor form and function, adjust work-to-rest ratios and monitor heart rate variability. HIIT workouts give my clients a 60-minute workout in 30 minutes and, if done correctly, will greatly increase the vitality, longevity and strength of any client.”
For a flexible, efficient path to fitness, HIIT checks all the boxes. By starting small and slowly working up to a high level of intensity, a whole host of fitness gains and health benefits are possible without sacrificing time.
Kirby Baldwin is an editor and writer for KnoWEwell, the Regenerative Whole Health Hub and parent company of Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp.
Natural remedies and healing therapies are not just for humans, they also help pets overcome illness and maintain optimal health. Used properly, plants, herbs, essential oils and other natural, non-toxic substances can complement and often replace drugs and other chemical agents. Here are seven healthful solutions.
CoConut oil is a source of medium-chain triglycerides, which benefit cognitive function. It is also rich in lauric acid, a powerful antimicrobial agent for yeast infections, allergies and skin conditions (when used topically). Feed dogs and cats one-quarter teaspoon of 100 percent organic, cold-pressed, human-grade coconut oil for every 10 pounds of the pet’s body weight twice daily.
Manuka honey is an all-natural, effective remedy. Clinical trials have shown that it can eradicate hundreds of strains of bacteria, including certain antibiotic-resistant varieties. A Unique Manuka Factor rating of 10 or higher is recommended for medicinal use. Manuka honey can be used to manage resistant ear and skin infections, as well as large, superficial wounds that cannot be closed surgically. Given orally, manuka honey is effective at addressing H. pylori, the bacteria that contributes to gastrointestinal irritation, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and excessive E. coli blooms in animals with dysbiosis.
aloe vera has multiple applications. To reduce a dog’s discomfort from skin irritations, cuts or wounds, clean the affected area and apply the raw, inner gel of the plant to provide a soothing effect. For constipation, a small amount of whole leaf aloe vera juice, a natural laxative, can be added to a dog’s food. Inner leaf aloe juice, which doesn’t contain the skin, helps heal gastric ulcers, colitis and leaky gut.
lavender oil is used in aromatherapy to help calm nervous or anxious animals. For a dog with noise phobia, place a few drops on their collar or bedding before a stressor occurs, if possible, or diffuse the oil around the house for a calming effect. Lavender oil can also be beneficial for treating hot spots. Add a few drops to manuka honey or coconut oil and apply after disinfecting the wound twice daily.
o regano oil contains potent antibacterial and anti-parasitic properties. It can be used to calm itchy skin, soothe irritated gums and assist in balancing a dog’s gut flora.
It is also a beneficial herb for dogs with kennel cough or recurrent infections.
Oregano oil should always be diluted before using it in or on pets.
inger is a widely used, non-toxic, non-irritating remedy for soothing tummy troubles. It can be given orally or used in oil form by adding a few drops to a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, and massaging the mixture into the skin on the pet’s belly. Alternatively, add small amounts of freshly grated ginger or the dry herb to a tasty meatball or other yummy treat. Use no more than one-sixteenth teaspoon for kitties, one-eighth teaspoon for small dogs under 10 pounds, one-quarter teaspoon for medium-sized dogs, one-half teaspoon for large dogs and three-quarter to one teaspoon for giant breeds. Give the ginger one to three times a day, as needed.
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ChaMoMile is an effective calming agent that has analgesic and anti-spasmodic properties and is beneficial in soothing the central nervous system. Use a cool chamomile tea bag against a wound, irritation or bug bite on the dog’s or cat’s skin to provide a soothing effect. Something else to consider is a soothing chamomile after-bath rinse. Add five chamomile tea bags to two quarts of very hot water and steep until the water is cool for up to three hours to allow the maximum amount of polyphenols to release into the water. Remove the tea bags and pour the rinse over a freshly bathed pet from the neck down. Massage into the skin and do not rinse.
Veterinarian Dr. Karen Shaw Becker has spent her career empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their pets. To learn more, visit DrKarenBecker.com.
If there are no dogs in Heaven when I die, then I want to go where they went.
– Will Rogers
Peer-reviewed research has demonstrated myriad adverse effects from cell phone radiofrequency (RF) radiation, including increased brain cancer, DNA damage, oxidative stress, immune dysfunction, altered brain development, damaged reproduction, sleep changes, hyperactivity and memory damage. Thankfully, you can easily reduce your daily dose with simple steps.
Be aware that when you are in an area of poor reception, the phone will increase RF radiation power output by more than 1,000 times to reach the nearest cell tower.
Airplane mode turns off most transmitting antennas. Be aware that with newer phone models, you also must turn off Bluetooth and hotspot antennas individually.
Children’s skulls are thinner than adults’ and their brains are still developing. Hence, radiation from cell phones penetrates more deeply into their brains and is likely to cause more damage.
Research shows that sleep is disrupted by cell phone radiation. Need an alarm clock? Simply set the phone to airplane mode, which will stop wireless electromagnetic field emissions.
While talking on your cell phone, prefer to position the phone away from your body as far as possible. Whenever possible, use the speakerphone mode.
When a wireless phone is close to you, more than 50 percent of the RF is absorbed into your brain and body. Power phones 100 percent off before you carry them on your body.
This radiation has been shown to damage sperm and ovaries. Many people move the phone away from their head to reduce exposure but then rest the phone on their lap, forgetting that a cell phone or laptop near the abdomen results in higher radiation absorption to the reproductive organs.
Even if you are not using an app, it is always updating in the background, emitting RF. Delete apps you are not using. Turn off auto sync for the apps you need and sync them manually at times when you are at a distance from the phone or when you can connect with Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi.
Use a corded landline, not a cordless phone because they use electromagnetic microwave technology just like cell phones.
Yes, it is possible to connect your cell phone by using a wire. In fact, once connected, you can do everything your phone usually
does with Wi-Fi with a radiation-free connection.
Forward your cell phone to a landline whenever you are at home, then power off the cell phone without missing a call.
The metal surroundings reflect the waves inside the vehicle, often increasing your radiation exposure.
Whenever possible, minimize talk time and choose to communicate via text messaging rather than making a voice call to limit the duration of exposure and the proximity to the body. Hold the phone away from your body when you press “send,” and do not rest your phone against your abdomen while texting.
Source: Environmental Health Trust, a think tank that promotes a healthier environment through research, education and policy. For more information, visit EHTrust.org.
Email Publisher@VoFLNatural.com for guidelines and to submit entries. We advise confirming in advance directly with the business or organization.
Anniversary Celebration and Silent Auction – 8:30-4pm. Sales throughout the store and free samples. Free hot dogs, snacks and water. Pet rescues on site with live pets for adoption. Bid on many valuable silent auction gift baskets filled with pet products. All proceeds donated to local animal rescues. Ormond Farm Supply 1020 N. US Hwy 1 in Ormond Beach. 386-675-6021.
Open House at Natural Concepts Revisited – 11-5pm. Chair massage 11-1pm. Demonstrations for Kung Fu, Tai chi, original Strength and yoga from 1-2pm. Aamora demonstration from 2:14-2:30. Sample foods including kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha, vegan & gluten free desserts and soups. Come and see the redesigned facility that will be used for classes on yoga, TaiChi, Kung Fu and Original Strength, cooking and gardening classes. Natural Concepts Revisited, 142 W. International Speedway Blvd. Daytona Beach.
Yin Yoga – 9-10:30am. Begin your Sunday with this gentle yin class. Energetic, yet calming. All levels. Instructor Micki Higgins. BOGO: new students pay for first class; second class free. Also Livestream. Padma Yoga, 5 Utility Dr, Ste 15, Palm Coast. 386225-4733.
Farmers’ Market and More – 9am-5pm. Shop rain or shine for farm fresh produce, plants, trees flowers, herbs and spices, gourmet coffee and teas, honey, jams, salsas and more. Daytona Flea Market, 1425 Tomoka Farms Rd, Daytona Bch.
Science of Yoga – Discovery – 11am12:30pm. Connect breath with movement allowing you to be centered in the present moment. Learn more than poses with a deeper study of your body in this class. All levels. BOGO: new students pay for firstclass; second class free. Also Livestream. Padma Yoga, 5 Utility Dr, Ste 15, Palm Coast. 386-225-4733.
Senior Discount Day – Noon-6pm. Seniors save 10% off all regularly priced items. Debbie’s Health Foods, 862 Saxon Blvd, Orange City. 386-775-7002.
Monday Madness – 8am-6pm. 1st Mon. Save 25% on supplements and food items. Healing Zone, 515 Canal St, New Smyrna Bch. 386-402-7825.
Kripalu Yoga – 9:30-11am. Linking posture to posture with pausing to feel the energy allowing the body to speak to its needs. Also Livestream. Padma Yoga, 5 Utility Dr, Ste 15, Palm Coast. 386-225-4733.
Stretch & Flex – 10am. Pictona at Holly Hill, 1066 Ridgewood Ave.
LVCY Chair Yoga – 12-1pm. Learn how to make your chair your best friend. BOGO: new students pay for first class; second class free. Limited six per live class; preregistration required. Also Livestream Padma Yoga, 5 Utility Dr, Ste 15, Palm Coast. 386-225-4733.
Beginner Line Dancing – 5pm. Pictona at Holly Hill, 1066 Ridgewood Ave. $4.
Rainbow Tuesday –First Tuesday of the month. Save 20% on regular priced items at Debbie’s Health Foods. 3850 S. Nova Rd. in Port Orange and 862 Saxon Blvd. in Orange City.
Discovery Yoga (Kripalu Tradition) –9:30-11am. Linking posture to posture with pausing to feel the energy allowing the body to speak to its needs. Also Livestream. Padma Yoga, 5 Utility Dr, Ste 15, Palm Coast. 386-225-4733.
Discount Crystal Live Facebook Show and Sale – 5pm nightly Wednesday through Sunday. Real time shopping. Follow Big Box of Rocks on Facebook.
Ormond Beach Farmer’s Market –8am1pm. Fresh produce, local honey, fine crafts and yummy treats. City Hall Plaza, 22 S. Beach St. Ormond Beach.
Senior Discount Day – 9am-7pm. Seniors save 10% off all regularly priced items. Two locations: Debbie’s Health Foods, 862 Saxon Blvd, Orange City. 386-775-7002.
Tai Chi Class – 10:30-11:30am. $10 per class. Ormond Beach Presbyterian Church, 105 Amsden Road in Ormond Beach.
Discount Crystal Live Facebook Show and Sale – 5pm. Real time shopping. Follow Big Box of Rocks on Facebook.
Canal Street Nights – 5-8:30pm. Third Thursday of event month fun filled evening with expanded streetside dining, vendors, kid’s zone and specialty food vendors.
Yoga Inspired Qigong – 6-7:15pm. This practice introduces the layering of specific breathing techniques with asana, body and mind reflection. Weaving Qigong throughout encourages connection to the heart space. Padma Yoga, 5 Utility Dr, Ste 15, Palm Coast. 386-225-4733.
Cooking is like love. It should be entered into with abandon or not at all.
– Harriet Van Horne
FRIDAY
Farmers’ Market and More – 9am-5pm. Shop rain or shine for farm fresh produce, plants, trees flowers, herbs and spices, gourmet coffee and teas, honey, jams, salsas and more. Daytona Flea Market, 1425 Tomoka Farms Rd, Daytona Bch.
Kripalu Yoga – 9:30-11am. BOGO: new students pay for first-class; attend your second class free. Also Livestream. Padma Yoga, 5 Utility Dr, Ste 15, Palm Coast. 386-225-4733.
First Friday Garden Walk – 10-11am. Join a ranger for a garden walk and learn the history of Washing Oaks while exploring the formal gardens. Washington Oaks, Palm Coast.
Discount Crystal Live Facebook Show and Sale – 5pm. Real time shopping. Follow Big Box of Rocks on Facebook.
SATURDAY
Compost and Honey Special – All day. Compost $5/bag and 10% off local honey. 142 W Int’l Speedway Blvd, Daytona Bch. 386-341-5068. NaturalConceptsRevisited.com.
Kripalu – Nidra – 9-10:30am. All levels. BOGO: new students pay for first-class; second class free. Also Livestream. Padma Yoga, 5 Utility Dr, Ste 15, Palm Coast. 386-225-4733.
Classic Car Cruise-In – 9am-1pm. 1st Sat. The market welcomes more than 300 classic and collector cars. Enjoy the music of DJ Frank in the west parking lot during the Cruise-In. It’s free to show your car and free to browse rows of classic automobiles. Daytona Flea & Farmers Market, 1425 Tomoka Farms Rd. 386-253-3330. DaytonaFleaMarket.com.
Flagler Beach Farmers Market – 9-1pm. Featuring prepared foods, produce, handmade products, local art and more. Wickline Park, Flagler Beach.
Art & Artisan Stroll on Canal Street –9-3pm. First Saturday of the month. Historic Canal St. in New Smyrna Beach.
Farmers’ Market and More – 9am-5pm. Shop rain or shine for farm fresh produce, plants, trees flowers, herbs and spices gourmet coffee and teas, honey, jams, salsas and more. Daytona Flea Market, 1425 Tomoka Farms Rd, Daytona Bch.
Gallery Walk – 4-7pm. First Saturday of every month. Stroll down Canal, Douglas and Magnolia and enjoy the beautiful galleries and amazing art community in New Smyrna Beach.
Discount Crystal Live Facebook Show and Sale – 5pm. Real time shopping. Follow Big Box of Rocks on Facebook.
Canal Street Classic Cruise Car Show – 5-8pm. Second Saturday of the month. Historic Canal St. in New Smyrna Beach.
Using light energy through distance healing, your healing process can move forward more smoothly.
“My knee was warm for about 3 full hours after I left. It seemed to heal further after I slept the first couple of nights. While my knee was not healed 100%, it was significantly better and I was able to go on my Montana ski trip the next week.
P.S. Another month after my ski trip my knee has continued to improve.”
Robert, Gainesville, GA
Practicing by donation for nearly 10 years. Questions? Call Bill at 770-990-9191 or visit https://www.distancehealer.me
Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Publisher@VoFLNatural.com to request our media kit.
ACUPUNCTURE & PAIN MANAGEMENT CENTER
You Chang Hu, DOM, AP
Kunning Li, DOM, AP
• 2135 S Ridgewood Ave, Daytona Beach
386-760-2112
• 50 Leanni Way, Palm Coast
386-445-0098
AcupuncturePainMgmt.com
Dr. Hu and Dr. Li are graduateds of Traditional Chinese Medical Universities in China. They have practiced acupuncture and Chinese medicine for a combined 45+ years. See ad, page 23.
ACUPUNCTURE & SKIN CARE CLINIC
Lorenzo Phan, DOM, AP
725 W Granada Blvd Ste. 15
Ormond Beach
386-615-1203
Dr. Phan has great success in promoting fertility with acupuncture and herbal supplements. Non-surgical modalities for natural pain relief include acupuncture, trigger-point therapy, Chinese herbal remedies, cupping, neuromuscular therapy and cold laser for neck injuries, chronic lower back pain, sciatica, hip/knee arthritis and migraines and more. MM20928 See ad, page 7.
EAST COAST ACUPUNCTURE
Lisa Sweeters, Acupuncture Physician
102 Flagler Plaza Dr., #102, Palm Coast 386-302-5363
EastCoastAcupunctureFL.com
Masters Degree in Oriental Medicine from Atlantic Institute of Oriental Medicine, additional TCM studies in Guang Zhou, China. Individualized holistic care for fertility issues including IVF, chronic & accute pain, digestive issues, anxiety, insomnia, prostatitis, sports injuries. Celluma Low-Level Light Therapy for arthritis, muscle & joint pain, acne, skin tone, edema. In-network provider for VA patients. See ad, page 9.
RP ACUPUNCTURE
Rosa Panos, DACM, AP, PT AP3945
397 Palm Coast Parkway SW #5 386-283-4655 • RPAcupunctureFL.com
Doctorate of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, Chinese Herbal Medicine, Licensed Physical Therapist, Oncology Rehab-ilitations Specialist, Integrative Pain Management, Acupoint injections and Zyto Elite Scanning. Over 30 years of medical experience combining Eastern & Western medicine. Studies include Pacific College, China Medical University, Taiwan. See ad, page 29.
SUPERFOODS CAFÉ & JUICE BAR
515 Canal St, New Smyrna Beach 386-402-7825
TheFamilyNutritionStore.com
Daily lunch specials include vegan and gluten-free soups made daily from all organic ingredients. Cold-press juices, 3-, 5- and 10-day cleanse. Doctor-formulated protein smoothies and create-yourown smoothies with a variety of fruit bases and supplements. Call for daily specials. Café Hours M-F 8am-4pm Sat 8-5; Soup 11am-3pm M-Sat. Two daily soups—one vegan, always gluten-free.
YOUR CBD STORE
• 117 W Howry Ave, Deland • 386-627-6715
DeLandFL.CBDrx4u.com
• 160 Cypress Point Pkwy, Ste A105 Palm Coast • 386-627-5271 Palm Coast.CBDrx4u.com
Offering Certified Organic CBD products exclusive to Your CBD stores. Products are formulated using other cannabinoids and terpenes, creating unique synergies that increase efficacy, target specific ailments and increase the binding of CBD. Stop in and try a free sample. See ad, page 11.
BE WELL CHIROPRACTIC
@Healing Zone
515 Canal St, New Smyrna Beach
386-402-8997 • BeWellNSB.com
Drs. Wendy and Christian Edwards are dedicated to providing holistic patien-centered care. In addition to chiropractic, they offer Class IV laserm Frequency Specific Micro-current, functional medicine, pregnancy care and pediatrics. Through specific testing they locate imbalances and recommend natural natural approaches.
BEACHSIDE COLONICS
Lidia Nash
18 Bovard Ave Ste A, Ormond Beach
Call or text: 386-760-0035
Gentle rinsing of the colon removes toxic waste that can contribute to pain, inflammation and disease. Relaxing and effective. Lidia also offers ionic foot cleanse, infrared detox wraps and healthy food preparation classes. MA46199.
KEITH’S BIG BOX OF ROCKS
4601 E. Moody Blvd. Ste. E-4 Bunnell Keithsbigboxofrocks.com 407-212-5013
Metaphysical store that carries crystals, rocks, gems, fossils and minerals. Shop a wide selection of gemstones and jewelry online or in-store for all your healing energy crystal needs.
HOLISTIC DENTAL HEALTH CARE
George W Edwards, DMD
David W Edwards, DMD
541 N Palmetto Ave, Sanford 407-322-6143 • HolisticDentalHealth.com
Holistic dentistry focuses on whole-body wellness that starts with the mouth. We are dentists who perform dentistry that is good for the body, as well as the teeth and gums. See ad, page 23.
ACCESS CONSCIOUSNESS
BIO-ENERGETIC BODYWORK
Cathleen Connor, CFMW, Access Consciousness Facilitator
1011 Ocean Marina Dr, Flagler Beach 971-732-2168 • ExuberantlyBeing.com
Providing one-on-one sessions, free intros/consults, Zoom classes and dynamic group classes with bio-energetic bodywork for the Access Bars and Energetic Facelift. Sessions support the body to let go of limitations, blocks, projections and implants to allow more ease and joy.
THE PHYSICS OF HEALTH
Trish Watson, CNC
18 Bovard Ave, Ste A, Ormond Beach 303-257-0058
ThePhysicsofHealth.com
Not sure why you’re feeling fatigued? Biofeedback measure-ments can evaluate vitamins, minerals, heavy metals, allergies, supplement needs, and much more. Start feeling better today. Call for a free phone consultation.
THE DIVINE IS WITHIN ENERGY HEALING & COACHING
Melina StroumpisCertified Emotion Code Practitioner
Volusia/Flagler
904-325-6622
TheDivineisWithin.com
Emotion Code is perfect for addressing blocks that are holding you back. Effective for anxiety, PTSD, relationship issues, sleep issues, and self-sabotage. Free consult. Veteran discounts.
DEBBIE’S HEALTH FOODS
• 862 Saxon Blvd, Orange City 386-775-7002
• 3850 S Nova Rd, Port Orange 386-763-7046
DebbiesHealthFoods.com
High quality supplements, CBD, grocery items, organic produce, special needs diets. Area’s most knowledgeable and friendly advice for over 30 years. See ad, page 9.
FAMILY NUTRITION/HEALING ZONE
515 Canal St, New Smyrna Beach 386-402-7825
TheFamilyNutritionStore.com
Organic produce, natural foods, healthy snacks, personal care, pet products and more. Practitioner-only brands including Standard Process. Save 20% every day.
HEALTH FOODS FOR LIFE
Bob Lewandowski
122 E Rich Ave, DeLand 386-734-2343
Open Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm. Bob has been in business more than 39 years with specialties including: non-allergenic foods, energizing weight reduction, organic skin care, herbs and vitamins.
HEATH’S NATURAL FOODS
600 E 3rd Ave, New Smyrna Beach 386-423-5126
HeathsNaturalFoods.com
Wide selection of natural supplements and herbs. Bulk herbs and spices, gluten-free products, organic beer/wine, pet products, grass-fed organic meats. Deli/juice bar. Store open 8am-6pm daily. Deli open 8am-5pm daily. See ad, page 13.
LOVE WHOLE FOODS
CAFÉ & MARKET
• 275 Williamson Blvd, Ormond Beach
386-677-5236
• 1633 Taylor Rd, Port Orange
386-767-6543
LoveWholeFoods.com
Open Monday-Friday, 9am7pm; Saturday, 9am-6pm and Sunday, 11am-5pm with friendly, knowledgeable staff. Get involved in your community, shop local and support organics. Save more with our “Get Healthy, Get Rewarded” program.
NATURE’S GARDEN NATURAL HEALTH FOODS
2405 Enterprise Rd, Orange City 386-774-1222
Open Monday-Friday, 10am–6pm; Saturday, 10am5pm. Quality vitamins, minerals, herbs, body building and dietary supplements, personal care, children and pet products, essential oils, books and mail-order available. 20% discounts every day.
SPICE OF LIFE HERBS
214 Beresford Ave, DeLand 386-734-0035
SpiceOfLifeHerbs.net
Open Wednesdays-Saturdays, Noon-5pm. Herbs by the ounce. teas, infusers, specialty collector teapots, and more. Essential oils and diffusers for home and auto, aromatherapy books and jewelry, soy candles in many sizes and scents. Visit and like SunSpirits Tea Room on Face Book. Serving wine, beer, tea and coffee. Shop online www.spiceoflifeherbs.net
GREAT FLORIDA INSURANCE
Cal Seibert, Agent 415 Dunlawton Ave, Ste 108 Port Orange • 386-256-4812
*Each location is independently owned and operated. Say goodbye to high insurance rates. Contact us for quotes on auto, home, condo, renters, boat, motorcycle, dwelling and flood insurance. Experience personalized service. SR22 and FR44 policies available.
WALK-IN MEDICAL MARIJUANA CLINICS
100 S Spring Garden Ave, DeLand
386-232-5599
2575 W US 92, Daytona Beach
386-222-1667 • CMMDR.com
Medical marijuana treats more than 250 medical conditions such as: chronic pain, PTSD, cancer, seizures, epilepsy, Parkinson’s, MS, HIV/AIDS, Crohn’s, IBS, glaucoma, fibromyalgia, lupus and more. See ad, page 23.
NATURALLY GREEN PEST SOLUTIONS
PO Box 354591, Palm Coast, FL, 32135
386-237-9663
NaturallyGreenPest.com
Info@NaturallyGreenPest.com
Offering pest solutions for your home and lawn with a natural focus. Unwanted pests in your home can negatively affect your family’s health and your peace of mind. Eliminate them with a program you can feel good about.
CAP’N LU’S
701 E 3rd Ave, Ste 1, New Smyrna Beach
386-957-3032 • capnlus.com
Free Delivery Beachside NSB
A health food store for pets. Holistic, all-natural food and treats for dogs and cats, flea and tick remedies, feed and water bowls, bags, carriers, lifejackets, grooming supplies and accessories. Shop with confidence that you’re getting the highest quality pet food available. See ad, page 27.
356 Destination Daytona Ln, Ormond Bch Volusia • 386-327-6937
gosolar@empowersolar.com
Our mission is to make solar energy effortless and affordable. We design energy systems specific to your needs to maximize savings and provide clean electricity for your family. FL Lic. Solar Contractor #CVC57067. See ad, page 5.
SOLAR-FIT
1523 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill
Volusia • 386-441-2299
Flagler • 386-445-7606
Solar-Fit.com
Relax and let the sun do the work for you. Solar-fitting your home or business is a smart, economical and environmentally sound investment. We offer a wide range of options to make your home more energy efficient. We are making America energy-independent one home at a time.
NATURE IN BEAUTY
An Organic Beauty Boutique & Parlor
314 Canal St, New Smyrna Beach 386-576-6730
NatureInBeautyOrganics.com
Nourishing products for professional hair care, manicures and pedicures, facials, massage, reflex-ology, makeup, spa packages, Girl’s Night In. See ad, page 7.
LAUREE MORETTO
Soft Tissue Specialist
321-271-1678
Flagler & Daytona Bch LaureeMoretto.com
90% of pain is linked to structural misalignment. Your pain is really just a symptom. My work addresses the cause to give you lasting relief. Get your life back now. 20+ years experience. MA20965.
FLORIDA MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY
June Drennon, CCT 2008 • JuneDrennon@ FloridaMedicalThermography.com
727-729-2711
FloridaMedicalThermography.com
Certified Clinical Thermographer 2008. Mindful Wellness with Thermography! Knowledge is power: Know your risk factors to make corrections and avoid developing pathology. Call for location convenient for you.
GENTLE PET PASSINGS
Dr Gayle Burrell
Volusia / Flagler
386-279-8525 • GentlePetPassings.com
Saying goodbye to your beloved friend is a loving, but difficult decision. Spend those final precious moments with your pet in the comfort of their home surrounded by all that they love. See ad, page 27.
AMETHYST WELLNESS
Amy Coopersmith, ARNP
50 Cypress Point Pkwy, B-1 Palm Coast 386-283-4180 • AmethystWellness.com
Preventative healthcare, medically supervised weight loss, IV nutrition, hormone optimization, body contouring, aesthetic treatments, laser hair removal, weight loss and more. See ad, page 21.
PADMA YOGA
Micki Higgins, E-RYT 500 YACEP 5 Utility Dr, Ste 15, Palm Coast 386-225-4733 • PadmaYogaOnline.com
Cell: 904-377-4217. Fully open with day & evening classes. Yoga for all body types and all ages. We are the only yoga studio in Palm Coast that is not hot. See website for schedule. See ad, page 25.
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