Jan

Food to go ………

sally on January 19th, 2012

A New Year , new travel regulations . Trying to stay healthy when traveling , shuffling kids around , no time to cook or for those who don’t like to cook can be stressful . Some times we end up us settling for less or eating whatever is free: buffets and free continental breakfasts …. submitting to the pretzels , peanuts and cookies on an airplane or sugar coated snacks in a waiting room .

Travel preparations only take a few mintes and will help you to maintain your new years weight, mental and physical goals and aspirations for the coming year .

The TSA has gotten even stricter with food and some items may not be permitted on board a plane. This past year , I have had hummus ,stuffed grape leaves ( drain off all fluids first ) and almond butter confiscated as liquids !

Proteins: Best travel foods are healthy , enzymatically alive, nutrient dense bars like Greens + . They make 18 different bars but my favorites are the Super Energy chocolate or the Chocolate Chia . They can curb hunger pains for a couple of hours and they provide a high level of nutrient dense foods.They are high in fiber, omega’s , fiber and protein.

For diabetics, the Whey Crisp bar , uncoated and chocolate free, is a winner with 15 grams of protein , 2 grams of omega 3 and only 9 grams of sugar can definitely save the day !

For a quick liquid snack , try taking a Greens+ stick that you can add to water , juice , herbal teas or milk to get your daily dose of veggies and phytonutients ,enzymes and probiotics. A quick easy and tasty treat that will up your immune system all day long.

If you have time to cook or can get to a natural food superstore for take out , the cage free hard cooked eggs will keep for several hours . If you cook them at home , keep the shells on and bring baggie to discard the waste. They will last longer. I usally eat them with some raw sea salt or a few basil leaves.

Meats: Natural sliced roast beef, chicken or turkey roll ups are always a great way to maintain your weight and healthy blood sugar levels . Add a few basil leaves ( helps the brain calm down ) and maybe a slice of your favorite cheese . Wrap them in foil or a baggie .Cold leftover chicken or turkey breast drizzled with fresh lemon juice and a little sea salt can satisy your dietary needs for hours.

For vegetarians ; a cold black bean salad with cilantro or some marinated tofu cubes will work just as well.

Produce: Instead of a watery , tasteless , low nutritional iceberg salad at the airport ……take a handful of fresh herbs and add it to anything you are eating . I love to add cilantro to my turkey roll up because it helps improve the liver and gallbladder function. Parsley , a natural diuretic will help keep your weight down and basil leave can help you manage travel stress better.

Packing natural herbs and romaine or organic spring mix salad with your own favorite veggies will also keep for a few hours . Just remember to add lemon wedges but no liquid salad dressing as the leaves will get soggy and the TSA will take away any liquid over 3.2 oz .

Fruits: Organic apples , pears, red grapefruits , tangerines, plums , blueberries ,grapes and small avocadoes make the best fruits for traveling . With watermelon or pineapple chunks , I have to drain the juice first and pack in an tight disposable container so they can pass through security .

Cheeses: There are so many small goat , sheep and sliced natural cheeses now. One of my new favorites is a wasabi soft goat cheese that I can spread of pear or apple slices or my gluten free crakers . It’s also great as a spread on a slice of meat and fresh herbs rolled up to give it a kick . Most cheese can stay out of refrigeration for at least a day , especially in the colder weather .

Yogurt: May get confiscated at the TSA gate because they run 6- 8 oz .So buy the baby sizes at 3 oz . If you are not traveling by plane , Freeze the container the night before and it will be perefect to eat in a few hours and still be cold. Add some berries and chopped nuts to complete your snack .

Nuts: the best travel food ever . Eat raw when possible or roast them yourselves in the toaster oven with some Bragg’s liquid aminos or your own sea salt and a ash of caynene pepper or cinnamon. Most nuts are cooked in peanute, cottonseed or soy oils and cooked at high temperatures. This can actually change the chemistry of the nut and turn it into an toxic, high calorie unhealthy food.

Chocolate: 85% chocolate bars rule . They help youmaintian a helahty blood sugar and you can reap the benefits of helathy omega-3′s.A totally decadent new snack I discovered iwht the Next brand org chocolate covered ginger chunks. Even my seat mates on my last flight could not resiste them .

Herbal Teas: Traveling with tea bags is a must . Not only does the tea provide a break from the usualy suagr laden beverages but it offers additional an additional nutrient support supporting enrgy , immune and mental functions. Tea can be added to both hot and cold water . Bring your own mug or use a reuseable bottle to avoid the styofoam cups that are so toxic. In times where you need energy : green, white, and mate are the best !

Unusally good treats. Many of the larger Supernatural stores have phenomenol delis and some great travel foods. I have taken black rice risotto cakes, quinoa cakes., spinach muffins, curry chicken salad, butternut squash and arugula salad, spaghetti squash ..homemade desserts …..the list is endless……

Healthier food to go is also a must for sports events , daily trips to the gym, movies and any time you are eating away from home . Take some time , get creative , and plan. Your body will thank you !

In Continued Health ,

Sally Byrd

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Dec

Giving Thanks in St Thomas

sally on December 1st, 2011

St Thomas is so much more than a cruise ship stop and shopping destination.

Although , I had a several invitations for Thanksgiving this year, the warm weather and the opportunity to see some close friends in St Thomas won out at the last minute..The salt water and a little sun beckoned too.

A few days away with my good friends Sherrie and Paul Davis who are the proprietors of the Natural Foods Grocery and Deli and was just what I needed. Their store is a 5 minute walk from the cruise ship dock near Yacht Haven in Mandela Circle . The deli make the best wraps and salads!

For Thanksgiving this year – I was truly thankful for all of my wonderful friends who supported me this year during my job transition to become self employed and do what I do best . Teach, Preach , Heal & Sell while traveling . The wonderful companies who have given me their leap of faith this year : Greens+ , American Biotech Labs; Silver , Immunocorp;Krill , Yogourmet and Dr Venessa’s for International Sales. I am also truly blessed to have friends who live in some really fabulous places.

We were double booked for 2 meals….one on the beach and one at a musician’s house.Magen’s Bay was our first stop with many of the families from the Montessori school and DJ named Robert Luke, Caribbean Country 93.5 FM who came over from St Croix.Warm but cloudy and not too hot , the calm bay proved to be a haven for the pelicans and brown boobies who were taking advantage of the masses of small fish .Quite entertaining ……felt so good to swim. We also had some resident sting rays underfoot but the water was so clear you had some warning ….

Lunch : The food was amazing for a pot luck. The grilled , yes marinated grilled turkey , butterflied on the grill for 2 1/2 hours by chef Robert was one of the best I have ever eaten . Then the lobster tails and roast beef by Chef Gavin combined with the usual favorites: asparagus,grilled Brussels sprouts, stuffing several ways, stuffed mushrooms, leafy greens salad with artichokes, butternut squash and onion tart , sweet potatoes with pies and watermelon for dessert . Yummy! Thank God we were swimming to burn the calories before we our next engagement .

Dinner: Fred and Polly will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary next year and for 39 of those years have opened up their wonderful home to anyone in need of a ready-made family or a wandering minstral who likes impromptu jamming sessions. Again , more food than we could eat and the potluck dishes provided something for everyone. We ate turkey 3 ways here: roasted, smoked and fried. Roasted was my favorite w/sweet potatoes and a mozarella ,basil and cherry tomato salad by our neighbor , Kat who has her own soup business….The Wandering Soup Kitchen . Alana Davis, a young talented violinist and daughter of Sherri and Paul plays with Fred & Polly who specialize in folk music along with about 8 other talented folks . I did cheat and ate some corn pudding ( not on my blood type plan) and had to retreat to a quiet corner of the porch in case I fell asleep during the jam session!

Diving with the St Thomas Diving Club based out of Bolongpo Bay and Iggies restaurant was a treat . I didn’t even have to touch my gear once I brought it to the boat and they let me store for several days of diving . The water was 82 degrees so that is perfect for my 3 m wetsuit with a skin underneath . Many of men , tourist of cousre as their blood hadn’t thinned out yet …..dove without any skin but I like the protection and the warmth .Visibilty was good about 60-80 feet because we still had a little rain each day to stir up the bottom. Turtles, baracuda ,eels , rays,large crabs and lobster populated the reefs. They are starting to come back after a few years of no major hurricanes and that was encouraging to see .And we had a motely crew of divers too!

There is always something going on ….the local farmers markets provided fresh herbs,free range chicken eggs and organic produce that rivaled what I buy at home. I was excited to see all the ingredients of the local bush tea ( lemon grass, basil, thyme , bay leaves ) and the beautiful pumpkins , and sorrrel just in time for the holidays. The market on main street is open on saturday mornings and yacht haven has on on sundays.

When downtown , visit my favorite store ( besides natural foods grocery & deli ) Fish Face , owned by Krisitn Wall -a local underwater photographer and diver whom I met on Thanksgiving . She has some fantastic underawater photography pieces and unique clothing . If you need a mental break from the cold , check out her photos and take your spirit away underwater to the islands. They will transport you to the warm caribbean waters: www.undertheseaphotos.com Her shop is located in the Palm Palace , right off of main street with other select specialty stores and a beautiful art gallery and unique jewerely store.

The local arts and crafts festival also provided more music from Fred & Polly , Alana and the rest of the talented gang. On Saturday , we tried sailing ( Paul races boats every spring with his magnificent 7 crew ) but due to an unforseen snag , we were motoring for a day instead and then the battery died whebn we tried to leave St John . Darkness falling fast with increased rain pelting down our backs , no car with only a phone flashlight ? We swam to shore , eventually got to the ferry and made it home safe and sound and managed to get back the next day with a new battery We even had the pleasure of meeting Mrs Gibney , whom the beach in St John is named after. It is rumored that Albert Einstein was a frequent vistior here ! And no wonder, the beaches are beautiful . The aqua blue color on sunny days just takes your breath away .Diving , working , swimming and adventures over in St John and St Thomas proved to be an exciting week. I felt like an undercover agent ! Our group of 4 soaked and sandy, barefoot or fins after the boat incident proved to build character , promote team building and the locals commented that we looked like the x-files! Now I need a vacation !

Thanks Sherrie & Paul !

In continued health ,

Sally Byrd

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Oct

A Silver Lining

sally on October 10th, 2011

Silver -Its a hot topic that is on everybody’s mind these days . Did you buy some ? at what price ? and when should we buy more ?

For others; it it’s a beautiful color, a piece of jewelry or an upcoming holiday reminder .

For me, it means immune health and protection wherever I go . I have been using the Silverbiotics line regularly as part of my immune system health since 2005 .Combined with Pro-Biotics, Wild Oregano , garlic, turmeric, osha root , olive leaf and some elderberry extracts , I rarely get sick .

Years ago, pure silver coins were used to keep water supplies from being contaminated and being fed on a silver spoon offered additional immune support during the winter months . Now ,with the severity of the water damage left behind by the hurricanes , tornado’s and tropical storms , the incidences of mold is sky high . Combined with the yearly seasonal allergies, cold and flu’s that start this time of year , Silver should be in every household. Here’s why :

My favorite brands use the silver sol technology , like Silver Biotics and Health Max. This patented technology reaches far beyond the traditional colloidal and ionic forms of silver and is proven safe for human ingestion on a daily basis by over 280 patented and peer reviewed studies. This research is a accumulation of over 12 years of research and testing from over 60 different universities, independent and government and military laboratories, worldwide.

What makes this silver sol molecule so unique? Silver Sol molecular technology offers a multiple modes of action while other forms only offer one. When you can have 4 times as much coverage for a better price which one would you choose? Plus it’s safe to take daily !

These extremely stable molecules are in an Ag404 formation surrounded by a very thin layer of silver oxide that binds to the oxygen in the water molecule ( within the bottle) that can actually change the structure of the water molecule . In this way , the silver is non-toxic and safe to ingest at a lower dose than most brands. The molecular structure of the silver remains in tact and it not absorbed by the body nor will it fall out of solution like some do , causing Argeria or the Blue Man syndrome over time. The silver sol molecular technology usually leaves the body intact within 24 hours .

These unique Ag404 molecules are also on a resonant frequency that allows them to destroy pathogens without direct contact .And they do it fast ! Within minutes! You can drink it , spray it , and apply it anywhere inside or outside the body . It even works on pets . Many people are discovering ways to use as a produce wash, household cleaning agent, toothbrush and make brush sanitizer, and a hard core effective deterrent for mold.

Several years ago , EPA established dose for daily ingestion- about 1 ounce of the 10ppm ( equivalent to .005 mg ) , Another cool thing about this technology . It will not destroy nor inhibit the growth of your friendly gut bacteria. So all of your money spent on additional pro biotic supplements will not be wasted. It only goes after the “bad guys” , rendering them useless and then it silently leaves the body . Substantial research has been done on MRSA, Candida yeast , low immune systems , environmental toxins, allergies, acne and all types of bacteria and viral agents with positive results. The product is virtually indestructible-you can heat or freeze it ! it will work with almost any other nutrient .

The ASAP gel is something I take with me everywhere. This simple product contains only the silver sol molecule, water and a little TEA and offers no current allergic reactions . Anybody who touches any germ attraction surface – computers, phones, shopping carts, handles money , touches people ( medical or alternative medicine ) or wants youthful looking smooth and silky skin , should use this gel daily. Once applied , it can keep pathogens neutralized for up to 4 hours. ASAP gel can be used both inside and outside the body for a variety of ailments . Here I am sandwiched between the owner Keith and his general sales mgr , Stan in South beach just after setting up for a trade show . We actually had a little free time and took our gel to the beach !

I use the ASAP gel daily, underneath my daily moisturizer so I can have “clean skin” .The ASAP gel promote cellular renewal since it promotes stem cell regeneration while adding a softness to the skin that all of us aging individuals can use ! It is one of the few products that you can use on your eyelids too ! While most people use it as an after sun product , it works wonders on mosquito bites, skin rashes as a Neo-sporin replacement . Sometime for severe issues with a festering sore, acne or open wound, I use the gel first for then apply a layer of calendula gel on top .

While many of the hand sanitizing gels use alcohol that dry the skin and interfere with T cell formation , the Silver sol molecular technology gels do not . You can feel the difference!

Let me know if you would like more information by e-mailing me at ladybyrds@msn.com or call 904-461-5166 or visit their website : www.ablsilver.com

Protect yourself , your family and friends this season,

Use Silver sol technology products for your families first line of defense,

In continued health ,

Sally Byrd

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Sep

Chiropractic Care Counts !

sally on September 5th, 2011

Working at the Florida National Chiropractic Show in Orlando ,FL last weekend with American Biotech Labs( silver sol technology ) was fun and educational . Unfortunately ,Hurricane Irene was leaving her impact up the East Coast and we were very blessed that FL was spared her wrath . Prayers have gone forth to all those places who were damaged by this storm. Never underestimate a category one !

Chiropractic Care is part of an important body fitness protocol that works to keep our immune system strong,our energy levels up while relieving everyday pain and stress . Thank Goodness that my parents believed in natural wellness and healing . I started receiving chiropractic adjustments as a young adult after several car accidents and sport injuries from sledding and field hockey ! I love my chiropractors who are mainly located up and down the East Coast , however I have a new one now in Spokane , WA !

They are all unique with different techniques and mannerisms. It may take you time to find just the right one for you . Don’t allow a bad experience or reference close your mind to this type of bodywork . All of them are different , just like your other doctors.

Last week while I was speaking on a favorite talk show out of Tampa , FL , Let’s Talk Nutrition,Go Green for Immune Health segment , with the infamous Dr Michael Garko ( www.letstalknutrition.com/877-897-8255) the topic was Immune Health . It is frequently overlooked that spinal manipulation can help boost the immune system naturally while easing the pain of sinus infections,and even the common cold or flu. Healthy spines do more than combat pain. They can even help with an acne problem or anxiety issues.

Over 22 million Americans make at least one yearly visit to a chiropractor . Pain management tops the list of reasons to go , however auto accidents,sports injuries and headaches fall close behind. Traveling , skin problems like acne,digestive disturbances, everyday stress and preventative medicine play a key role for other patients.

My care , while preventative in nature is primarily due to auto and plane travel, long hours sitting ,dragging luggage and scuba tanks . Adding in massage , reflexology , acupuncture and exercise and you have a healthy protocol for Aging Well. Your chiropractor can also assist you in the best exercises to strengthen your muscles to better hold your spine in place.

The gadgets at the trade shows are always fun. My booth neighbor and new friend, Dale has created a body massage tool for PTFIT solutions ( www.ptfitusa.com/800-380-8412) . Dale is a highly energetic, happy guy who is a creative genius who has invented numerous products . He eats well, forages herbs in the woods and loves the natural products industry .

The PTFIT multi is my favorite , is a self massager that needs no batteries or complicated explanations. This simple ,affordable,wooden ergonomic device allows you to treat sore muscle between your chiropractic visits. It offers a unique shape that extends to hard-to-reach areas and is so much more effective than a traditional back scratcher. You can roll and gently press it into your upper back,shoulder blades,lower back , buttocks,and even your chest area with ease. The additional rollers can be used for sore legs-quads & hamstrings and even your feet .Only 10-15 minutes a day can change your level of body stress. Be sure to drink adequate water so that your body can remove toxic waste easily . After demonstrating the tool for 11 hours at the Chiropractic show , Dale was sleeping soundly ! Several of us frequent travelers in the booth succumbed to buying one !

Some of my favorite chiropractors are listed below , but I know that there are many more out there that I will be frequenting in my lifetime. Most chiropractors are caring individuals that want to be able to add to your quality of life !

FL ,South -Deray Beach : Carol Krol , DC 561-498-8005

FL North -St Augustine : Bryan Bell ,DC 904-797-3232

GA, Atlanta : Tom Born ,DC 404-408-0143

MD ,Rockville :Robert Rifkin, DC 301-231-0050

NY,Bellmore: Josh Siegel , DC 516-425-0113

So take care of your spine and improve your body ! Support your local chiropractors!

In continued health ,

Sally Byrd

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Jun

Stressed & Tired ? Eat more salt!

sally on June 15th, 2011

Eat more salt? Are you kidding , salt raises blood pressure , hypertension and promotes weight gain , right ?

It all depends on the quality of the salt. Unadulterated, natural raw sea salt contains over 80 important trace elements that work wonders on a variety of health conditions including ; healthy blood pressure, a stronger immune system , proper Ph and energy levels as it encourage a mild form of cellular detoxification . We need healthy salt sources for our immune systems . Just look at the sales and success of the Netti pots. Using a saline solution for mucous and sinus irritations works. Notice how you feel after swimming in the ocean – relaxed and happy . Some companies even promote drinking small amounts of salt water for its nutritious trace mineral content .

As usual , money and marketing, play a huge role in the perception of the American people . Table salt and even some “sea salts” are actually toxic for you : they are chemically processed and heated to over 1200 degrees F causing an unatural separation of the sodium from the chloride. Toxic table salt and some sea salts are bleached and loaded with talc and aluminium to ease the flow through a salt shaker. Even the addition of iodine in these salts is not enough to validate the efficacy of this nutrient.

However , eating small amount of high quality raw salt with your daily water intake can combat simple levels of stress and burnout . Most people who experience high or erratic levels of cortisol are adrenal challenged. The adrenals when barraged by these constant cortisol triggers due to emotional , physical, poor nutritional choices and/or environmental stresses can develop burn - out from Adrenal Fatigue to full blown Addison’s disease.

These critical glands are needed for our natural feel good hormones epinephrine and nor epinephrine and to communicate with the thyroid gland and your brain . When they are tired , so are you . For more reading on this timely subject , read James Wilson’s book Adrenal Fatigue which contains simple questionaires and solutions for lifestyle and supplement additions . In the meantime when you crave saltier food, reach for some high quality salt instead. Add a pinch several times a day to your water or food. Don’t cook with salt; use herbs and spices instead and control the amount by adding what you need to your cooked food instead.

Due to the nature of my work I am usually preaching nutrition to somebody, but only if they they ask for guidance ! I am just a messenger , and each of us is responsible for his or her own body .

A Florida gentleman who consulted me after developing shingles (often linked to low adrenal function ) cleans pools for a living ( handles chemicals 5 days per week adding in extra environmental stresses) has experienced rapid positive results with Raw Himalayan salt . Once he got his diet straightened out ( no more soda , wheat and refined foods) he threw out his salt substitute and within days of adding some salt to his diet began to feel better. Other friends in the natural products industry with elevated Adrenal Stress have too , reported that a pinch or two of raw salt a day improved their energy levels.

My friend Dean Martin , the owner of Herbs of Light, distributes 1,000 mg raw Himalayan salt capsules. Using Himalayan salt in his healing program for Lyme’s disease and energy levels was critical to his recovery . To learn more about his protocol go to : www.herbsoflight.com .

Again , Remember that stressed out folks are usually dehydrated too . If you overload your body with too much water without trace minerals or raw salt , you can further drive your adrenals and hence your energy levels down . So remember to drink 1/2 of your body weight in oz with a pinch of raw salt or swallow a couple of Herbs of Light Himalayan Salt capsules. Over time your body will stop craving salt and you can add in some potassium rich fruits again . Eating too many sweet fruits when you adrenal deficient will weaken your adrenals . How many of you have eaten some yogurt and fruit for breakfast and and hour later are tired?

Until your adrenals gain some strength , please limit high-sugar fruits and reach for some celery sticks with a pinch of salt instead! And head to the beach for your summer vacation ; a swim in salt water will restore your body, soul & spirit!

In continued health!

Sally Byrd

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May

Radiation Course Correction

sally on May 7th, 2011

Monday, March 28th, 2011

A Sencha Shot a day keeps the doctor away

Globally, we are increasingly challenged by both natural and man made disasters. It seems as though they just keep picking up speed. The end times as prophesied in the Book of Revelations, is coming to pass. Instead of giving up there is a lot that all of us can do and be good stewards of our God given bodies and to help our fellow neighbors with encouragement ,education,prayer and finances.

The tragedy of Japan is affecting all of us ; panic and fear in the natural product’s world is increasing .Radiation protection is now the “hot” topic of conversation everywhere. Hot Peppers Yes , we need to protect ourselves and help our Japanese neighbors.

Currently , American are already surrounded by various sources of radiation . Aside from Nuclear fallout, the electronic invasion of cell phones, computers, bluetooth devices, television, I pods,energy saving light bulbs , Fiesta ware, watches, x rays , sun exposure and environmental toxins( from lawn fertilizers to kitty litter) these immune reducing elements are commonplace and we need a nutritional course correction to live well with in our modern society .

Growing up , my mom made sure we we eating hot peppers daily as color tv started appearing on the homefront, then microwaves . She was a women ahead of her time and immune health was at the top of her list . We were healthy active kids and grew up without any immune defects and we still consume copious amounts of caynee and habernaro peppers.

Curry powder soon followed in her salmon and other fish entrees . As I grew older ,went off to college and discovered Sushi and Indian food with their protective attributes. Paul Pitchford the author of Healing with Whole Foods ,has been one of my role models and favorite resorces for years with much credit going to the Asian culture and traditional health techniques.

America already suffers from chronic hypo- thyroid conditions ( 30% of the population and growing ) and iodine rich foods do help protect the thyroid. Since the thyroid provides over 200 functions with direct response to the brain , this gland is critical for optimum health and hormonal support throughout the body .

As natural food stores rapidly deplete their iodine supplements headed for Japan , Hawaii and the West Coast, please remember that everyone needs to protect their thyroid and increase the amounts of protective foods in ones diet.Whatever you put into your mouth should be increasing your health, not adding to the toxic overload of so many everyday junk -filled habits.

If you don’t like sushi or eating seaweed (which is the best natural food of iodine besides sea water) then taking a trace mineral supplement like Trace mineral drops, Cell food or Quinone ampules in your daily water consumption is a great start . Other supplements would include Sun Chlorella or Nutrex Hawaiian Spirulina. Super food green powder supplements like Greens+,Green Vibrance ,Kyo-green , Perfect Food and all the rest make a solid contribution to overall daily health and protection . These green drinks provide immune support from head to toe including the thyroid .

Very Important: Drink as much green tea as you possibly can . I have been recommending Itoen Sencha Shots for years and just 1 can per day can give you 152 mg of catechins (the phytochemicals that keep your immune system strong) with only 40 mg of natural caffeine , a powerful antioxidant and immune protectant. A Sencha Shot really gives you more bang for the buck -great news. They are moving their facilities closer to Tawaain inlight of the recent disasters and have a healthy supply of tea already here in the US . ……Doctors are recognizing the benefits of green tea . I recently ran into an oncologist ( ones who specializes in cancer) and they do not advocate drinking green tea on the days a patient receives chemotherapy or radiation because of interference. We know that green tea in high doses can shrink tumor cells while providing for maximum immune support over radiation or other chemical poisoning . Herbs and Spices photo

Sally’s Top 12 immune survival hints :

1. Eat hot peppers several times per week or take Capsicum capsules.

2.Use Curry powder daily or take Turmeric ( curcumin) capsules of at least 500 mg or more daily .Try Truly Naturally,Jarrow,Paradise Herbs , New Chapter capsules or Herbs of Light , Herbs etc, or Herb Pharm liquid extracts.

3. Add a thyroid protective supplement to your program like Dr Venessa’s Thyroid Balance, Gaya Thyroid or NF Factors . Reduce the amount of bleached flour products , flouridated water and toothpaste that negatively affect the thyroid.Consume more iodine after contact with chorlinated swimming pools or handling pool chemicals.

4. Start eating sushi or increase the use of sea vegetables in your cooking . The new seaweed snacks from Sea Snacks and Annie Chung’s are delicious and great for kids too. Watch out for the wasabi as it is really hot !

5. Use Wild Oregano liquid drops or capsules from North American Herb and Spice Company or any of their spices for improved cellular protection. Start adding culinary spices to your foods. Aim for at least 5 tablespoons daily in your cooking or as condiments .

6. Add a Green super food drink or capsules to your daily regime . I love the Greens+Original or Wild berry Burst. Other good ones are Green Vibrance,Perfect Food and Kyo-Green.

www.greensplus.com

7. Add Astaxanthin or look for a supplement that contains at least 3 mg daily . This powerful antioxidant helps prevent sunburn which is mild radiation exposure -a must for ultimate protection. Cyanotech – Nutrex of Hawaii is the best source.

8. Eat more berries or supplement with nutrient rich small fruits like pomegranate seeds,blueberries,yum berries, maqi ,accai and elderberries. The nutrient protection is found in the skins not the the flesh .

9. Use Mushroom extracts like Mushroom Wisdom Brand or Host Defense to boost your immune system and protect cellular DNA. Reishi and Maitake work best for most people .

10. Use garlic and onions as much as possible or take the Alli-Max concentrate garlic for optimum immune support. This is the strongest one . www.allimax.com

11.Supplement with 5-10 cups or green tea or 1-2 Sencha Shots daily. It may just keep the doctor away and keep your thyroid running smoothly ! If these shots are too strong for you then dilute them with water , juice or buy the Oicho one instead or their other green teas from TEAS’ TEA. – another favorite is the rosehip sand green to help firm and hydrate your skin.

12. Use 1-2 tablespoons of the Silverbiotics silver liquid too. I usually add mine to my green tea or green drink and swish it around in my mouth for about 10 seconds to kill any infections and to boost my immune system , it has the ability to penetrate red blood cells and it does not store in the body . No Blue skin ! www.ablsilver.com

Stay hydrated . Consume high Alkaline water to be sure that your brain stays in communication with your thyroid and the rest of your body !

try Essentia ,Iceland Springs or Aqua hydrate .Look for a Ph that is high: 7.5 low end ′s or 8 .0 or 9.o the best . ……

Stop panicking and stay on course.

Just make some corrections as you live; to optimally protect your body and the ones that you love.

Consume organic dairy products , meats and produce where ever you can or buy locally .keep the coffee in check too……

In Continued health ,

Sally Byrd

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Tags: Japan, radiation, Sencha Shot, Thyroid

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May

China’s Charm

sally on May 7th, 2011

Sunday, December 26th, 2010

China a far away place away yet so similar. An overall amazing experience. Amy and Debbie, my international business partners made the trip possible for me and I am extremely grateful for their warm hospitality and graciousness.

My friend Amy Head had wanted me to come and meet “her people “ experience their culture and learn how the Chinese conduct business as some unique opportunities have presented themselves to us. We have been working on this for over a year and I finally got to visit the 2 largest cities – Shanghai with 20 million people and Beijing with 18 million. A small fraction compared to the rest of the country where there are at least 10 more cities the size of New York. Evidence of our globally expanding western society is everywhere from the products in the stores to the street vendors selling Vitamin Water: Coke, Pepsi and Nestle have done a terrific job in marketing American products. Unfortunately so have the fast food chains. KFC is a breakfast favorite, McDonald’s- Mac world outlets, Pizza Hut and Starbucks are everywhere. A local favorite coffeehouse is Costa Coffee that rivals Starbucks. The younger generation is switching to coffee now. I am drinking tea at each meal, for nutritional benefits and to stay warm!

Water is served warm in a glass, never cold. Could it be because they boil it first because of the water pollution? The Chinese do not drink a lot of green tea (Japan does) but they export mass quantities of it and the quality continues to improve. I loved the local fruit herbal teas (kumquat & lemon) and the chrysanthemum tea which has been a favorite liver/gallbladder detox and weight loss addition to many diet plans. The common Oolong tea (used for weight loss and energy) on every menu serves its population well. Almost everyone I met in these cities were B Blood type. Oolong tea works well for them and so does animal protein. Most of the meal always starts with the protein, then soup, veggies and finally the rice dishes. Maybe this is how they keep their weight down by offering a little bit of carbohydrates at the end of the meal when you have already balanced your blood sugar with adequate protein and veggies. A big adjustment from the bread and roll baskets that start off many American meals.

My detox stay-healthy regimen included a daily assortment of critical nutrients : Dr. Venessa’s Liverclean – 8 , 2 scoops of Anti-Aging3 Collagen, Taurine 2,000mg, Pycnogenol 200mg, Vitamin C/Quercitin 1000mg, Turmeric 1500mg, MSM 5,000 mg, Chlorella 500mg -6-8, Greens+ 1 tablespoon, OregaResp Wild Oregano 2-4 caps, Silverbiotics liquid 2 oz daily, Dandelion, Green and Breathe-easy tea, along with my usual assortment of aging well supplements.

The fashion and business industries revolve around a heavily populated Shanghai; unique buildings with centuries old colonial architecture, smog, pollution complimented by beautiful neighborhoods and unique upscale shopping experiences. Beijing is more spread out and a feeling of openness surrounds you as you are sitting in traffic trying to get downtown. The people here were so friendly, warm and gracious and they were eager to discuss US politics and finances and our way of life.

Things I learned: The Chinese people that I met were both humble and brilliant. Their education far surpasses most US schools. They are obsessed with aging well at any cost, including getting plastic surgery at a young age. They want to lose weight and stay thin. Something I never even thought about for their culture. They honor parents, traditions and family. Quite refreshing, actually. They don’t seem to much have gray hair.

They are happy people – maybe because so many of them are B Blood types and they visualize well. The older generations respect more TCM – Traditional Chinese Medicine therapies than the yuppie younger generations do. They peel their celery before eating it. They do not consume too many soy products. They do not like brown rice even if it means a better fiber and nutrient -rich choice. They are addicted to sugar. They eat it all day long. Even the so-called plain yogurt was sweetened. There is MSG in everything they cook! I was told it originally was sourced from seaweed and soybeans but is now chemically made. Now some of the Asians are reacting to these chemicals. Congee (basically egg whites, beans and broth with fresh condiments and herbs) are what most people eat for breakfast.

Cold Cantonese desserts were better than Flan! The black sesame or adzuki bean fillings and the green tea rice balls with the hot sesame centers were my favorites. Eating desserts at home consisted of fresh fruits, whole nuts, candy and hot tea-similar to many households throughout Europe and those of us with Mediterranean heritage . The local street vendors roast fresh sweet potatoes and corn instead ofthe usual American fare of soft pretzels or hot dogs. The people in China are not starving. Many of them do not like leftovers and give them to their pets or throw them away; And I was told growing up to eat all the food on my plate because there were starving children in China.

There is no recession in China except for a noticeable decrease in American tourists. Although I was considered tall in China at 5’9”, the Chinese in Beijing were taller than I expected. It may be due to the Mongolian influence there. I went from being a size small in US women’s long underwear to an XL in China sizes! At least it is cashmere and warm! The 30 degree days with extra windchill is cold enought for me ! Jolie, Daniel , Amy

Forget buying clothing essentials, except for hats, gloves and scarves. I could not find dressy boots. My feet were too big! Most better shoe stores went up to size 7 or 8 max. And I really like their high fashionable boots!

Whoever orders the dinner and sits facing the door, pays for the meal. At Chinese weddings the bride and groom walk down the aisle together, up and back. They blow bubbles, have a DJ or host and give away door prizes. They smoke a excessively but not as much as Italy. And I have to say, the cities of Shanghai and Beijing had cleaner bathrooms (ceramic holes) than Italy too! They give fantastic foot massages and acupuncture treatments. I was in heaven, although I needed bodywork to keep my blood circulation and clean out the msg, smoke and pollution. They are not used to seeing a left handed chopstick holder! Me!

No Jet Lag! Sleeping on planes has always been a challenge for me. So my trip started early morning and I landed in Shanghai at 10:00 pm; got to sleep by 1:00 am. Took 15 mg melatonin, 1,000 l-Tryptophan, 4 Neuro-Maxx (Dr.Venessa’s Formulas) and 1,000 chelated magnesium. I slept 7 hours and was a little tired the next day but waited until late to sleep. Coming back east I had a similar schedule, early am flight, got home and to bed by 1:00am. Slept 9 1/2 hours. Continued my jet lag dose for 3 nights then cut the melatonin back to 6 mg and kept the rest the same. As long as I got at least 7-8 hours a night, I never experienced the jet lag horrors that so many other people have to work through.

I really learned so much and have so much more to look forward to in future trips. For 2011 plan ahead and do something that you have always wanted to experience. The rewards are plenty and they will supply days of smiles and memories .

In Continued health

Sally Byrd

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May

Survival Food

sally on May 7th, 2011

Tuesday, November 30th, 2010

The holidays are here! Taking special care to feed your body while juggling the ever increasing demands of the season can wear you down. Holiday travel and shopping and keep a positive mental attitude … rules, security, traffic, crowds … Staying calm and focusing on on your blessings is mandatory for keeping your sanity. As a frequent flyer and traveler, I always travel with food.

The rules have become even tougher this past year and I have had to bite my tongue a few times when passing through security. I mean is Almond butter a liquid? Couldn’t believe it when TSA refused to let me travel with it. Hummus and grapeleaves (in a can), yes I have had them taken from me too. Are they liquids. Not for most people, TSA yes. What’s a girl supposed to eat? Where did common sense go anyway?

As airplane food further degrades to almost inedible junky-man made foods, I have to pack to few things to get me through the day. On a recent upgraded Delta morning flight, a free breakfast consisted of: OJ, milk, corn Chex, Breyer’s strawberry yogurt with artificial colors, a pastry and a fruit cup. The only salvageable edible fuel was the piece of pineapple and a few red grapes. Luckily, I had brought my Guayaki Yerba Mate and Breathe Easy by Traditional Medicinals to sharpen my brain and keep my immune system strong. I reached for my organic hard cooked eggs, raw pecans and manchengo sheep cheese. The young flight attendant asked me if I had actually cooked the eggs myself? A hard cooked egg? Gourmet cooking here. A little planning goes a long way.

For travelers of any type: air, rail, boat, car, hiking or biking, packing a quick snack can make or break your day. A well fueled brain can get you through almost any situation and help you stay level headed in challenging situations. Try these easy to make and take on the run for emergency situations. Don’t wait until you are starving and will eat anything because it is free or convenient.

Hard Cooked Eggs stay fresher in a shell. Crack them and carry a little salt or herbs in a Ziploc – type snack bag.

Nut mixes: Choose your favorite raw nuts, pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries/blueberries and or 70% chocolate chunks for energy. White cheese chunks add additional protein. Pack them in snack baggies so they will stay fresh and you can have a variety. If you buy Justin’s Nut Butter individual serving packs, they will make it through security.

Energy bars: Pack a higher protein, lower carb bar that provides solid nutrition like the Greens+ Energy bar, Betty Lou’s almond spirulina or ginseng balls, Raw revolution berry bar, Organic cranberry or blueberry bars and the chocolate mint Lara bars. Stay away from the highly processed artificially flavors and sweetened sugar bars that populate the majority of the shelves.

More Protein: Turkey slices rolled up with cheese or lettuce. Even plain works for a quick high protein snack. For bigger appetites, try a sandwich on Rudi’s spelt bread or tortillas or an Ezekiel hamburger rolls. They don’t dry out as quickly as the bread. Leftover chicken w/a lemon wedge or a Vegetarian bean burger also tastes great the next day.

Veggies: Celery, carrots, peppers, cucumbers, zucchini slices are offer quick and easy nutrition. Add a cheese stick or a small sealed container a salad dressing for dipping sauce.

Fruit: Apples, pears, grapefruit, oranges, tangerines or red grapes survive most travel snafu’s. Always pack an extra paper towel. Berries make a mess unless they are packed well.

Dairy: Taking a container or previously frozen yogurt (no dyes or artificial sweeteners) tastes great even hours after packing. Cheese sticks or white cheese slices …always work.

Beverages: Pack your favorite tea bags .You can get hot water almost anywhere to kick up your nutrition and fend off the hunger pains between meals. Other drinks like Greens+ individual sticks Emergen-C and other powdered nutrients that you can add to a bottle of water or juice.

For travel other than air, packing leftove

Sencha Shot

rs in a Rubbermaid container: nut butters with pretzels or celery and carrot sticks, stuffed are some of my favorites. Always have some water, healthy drinks on hand too. I keep 2 Itoen Sencha shots in my glove compartment for my late night and early morning drives to the airport or office or running about all day when I can’t stop to eat. To save money: make a pot of green, ginger, yerba mate tea or even your organic coffee; fill up a thermos and get on the road. Listen to a positive motivational CD or music to enhance your experience. Remember to breathe. Yes, stress can trigger shallow breathing and create short memory lapses to fatigue.

So start your holiday off right – shopping or traveling. Be prepared with better for you foods and survive the season with less stress.

In Continued Health,

Sally Byrd

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May

Passionate for Pizza Recipe

sally on May 7th, 2011

Saturday, October 30th, 2010

It has been years since I was able to enjoy a piece of pizza without feeling guilty, tired, bruised or bloated. Giving up pizza when I went wheat free about 15 years ago; this was one of those foods that I just couldn’t bear to part with. I would make spelt pizza dough from scratch but didn’t always have the time frame to do so. My West Hollywood friends, Stacey & John took a full day to make me some veggie andclam and garlic spelt pizza w/ anchovies last time I was in town. Delicious and I was truly appreciative for all the effort exerted. I have tried numerous options but the rice crusts were too chewy and the flat breads didn’t quite cut it .

Fast forward to the Expo East Trade show this month where my writing partner Ellen Briggs discovered a new easy frozen pizza dough, made from spelt by the Spelt Right Bakery in Yarmouth, ME. We were so impressed that we featured them and Vita Spelt on our weekely radio show last week. To hear the show go to www.kidkritics.com and listen to the show recorded live on October 22nd.

A small, round ball of pizza dough made from 100% Spelt grain is making homemade pizza so easy, you won’t need to order out or spend all day in the kitchen. Currently available in natural foods stores in the Northeast, Spelt Right Bakery www.speltrightbaking.com is a must buy along with their scrumptious bagels and rosemary spelt bread! The owner Beth George was previously a lawyer who looked out for children’s rights, now turned business owner and baker. Beth became a convert after observing the extreme difference in behavior and motivation in her son and in herself. She has received countless thank-you’s from people all over, for changing peoples lives because they can now have a sandwich, a bagel or a piece of pizza.

It’s simple to make: just take the frozen dough and place the package directly on flat surface in your kitchen, a cutting board works well. In about 3 hours the dough will have thawed and doubled in size and will be ready for use. One package makes about 2 small to medium pizzas. Just roll out the dough and use. I like to preheat mine for 3 minutes first ,then add the marinara or pesto sauce and ingredients you want to use. I used fresh spinach, mushroom, onions and sheep and mozzarella cheese with some cayenne on one and a fresh fennel with cheese on the other. YUMMMMM! The dough makes it – it was sweet not bitter with no hint of stomach pain or inflammation. WOW and so easy to make!

The Spelt grain is often confused with “wheat” and many of the gluten free dieters avoid it. Yes, it is part of the wheat family but it does not cause many of the reactions that whole or refined wheat does. Spelt has been over shadowed by the “gluten -free ” movement but not all people who have a wheat sensitivity are allergic to spelt.

Spelt is 2,000 years older than our modern day wheat and offers much lower level of gluten. Spelt’s hard protective husk makes it a naturally resistant to pests without heavy chemicals, pesticides or genetically altered production. Its a “green” Eco-friendly, high fiber crop that offers exceptional nutritional values for B-Complex, minerals and amino acids. It is a genetically intact grain. That’s important. Our ancestors were eating spelt, not our 21st century, high gluten altered wheat that is wreaking havoc in our bodies and minds. Although Spelt is a cereal grass, the genetic make up is very different than rye, barley or oats which is why many people can digest this grain even with a wheat intolerance.

People are becoming sensitive to the man-made, adulterated foods that are abundant in our supermarkets and food stores. We need to get back to our roots and eat God made foods. Why is obesity off the charts with diabetes, depression and thyroid disease rising at alarming rates. Dr. D’Adamo (both James & Peter) are responsible for alerting us to the dangers of wheat back in the 1980′s and getting us switched over to Spelt. If you are suffering from any of these following symptoms you may wants to change your grains stop the wheat and start on spelt, brown rice and quinoa, my 3 favorite grains. Daily wheat consumption can contribute to all sorts of arthritis issue, joint pain, eczema, digestive disorders, acid reflux, headaches, brain fog, bruising and water retention www.dadamo.com

Spelt was commercially re-introduced back into America in 1979 by Don Stinchcomb, the passionate owner of Purity foods offering a line of shelf stable Spelt line of products and flours marketed under the Vita Spelt label. www.purityfoods.com to order online if you can find the products in your local natural food or grocery store. One of my favorite products are the Spelt sesame sticks that I like to use in my homemade trail mixes, his pretzels and the angel hair and lasagna past noodles. The VitaSpelt products are such a better choice over whole wheat and what a taste difference. Cooking time is under 5 minutes for the angel hair pasta and your and your family will love the taste. No grit , excessive chewiness or glue -like taste or texture sitting in your gut after eating. This holiday season, try making lasagna using spelt and your family will love it.

For additional information and fabulous recipes using spelt flour, buy the book: SPELT HEALTHY by Marsha Cosentino, MA published in 2006. Marsha respects Dr. D’adamo’s blood typing programs and lists each recipe as to what blood types should eat it. Remarkable and right on the money. Thank You Marsha for the first practical and informative cookbook on spelt cooking!

Even if you don’t think that you may have a wheat sensitivity or intolerance, try Spelt anyway. The flavor and nutritional profilesare so superior that you won’t go back. Spelt is a little more expensive than wheat because the “husk ” is tougher to remove, but the price is worth it. Look at all the money that you will save in digestive aids and aspirin alone!

Try Spelt and see the difference in your energy and mind.

In Continued Health,

Sally Byrd

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May

Asian Foot Therapy

sally on May 7th, 2011

Monday, September 20th, 2010

Travel these days can be exhausting. Working long hours, socializing ,eating out, frequently changing hotels, inconsistent sleep patterns and occasionally staying with friends, dragging around luggage and computers while maintaining a positive outlook takes motivation and disipline. Since my car accident in late January, I have had repercussions with my skeletal system and circulation issues although regular bodywork and acupuncture do help. Stress affects my body much more than it used to and with my nutritional supplements and bodywork maintenance, it is manageable without prescription medications. This past 30 day road trip proved exceptionally challenging and I discovered some new road- friendly treatments that helped me survive wear and tear of travel until I could get back home to my regular therapists.

Chinese foot massage is an age old tradition. In many of the Asian countries, doctors were paid to keep their patients well- quite the opposite of today’s supposedly advanced medical care measures. Prescription drug abuse is on the rise here in America and it is sickening to me to find people on 5-15 different meds causing multiple other issues. Many of these Asian cultures including India, Egypt and even Central America used body work; acupuncture, acupressure, homeopathy, herbal medicine and various forms of applied massage and reflexology to re-balance the body and promote healing from within. Even Jesus washed and massaged feet!

Although the therapies differ from country to country , the outcome and purpose of foot massage is to balance the body’s electrical energy force through reflex points located in the feet, hands and head. My goal was to keep my lymphatic system moving , a challenge for any one who travels , sits and stands for extended periods of time. When our energy becomes stagnant ( or as my therapists call it : stuck-Chi) our bodies immune systems will suffer and aches , pains and diseases can take root.

marge and sally

After 4 days in the extreme Las Vegas heat contrasting with the frigid air in the casino for a trade show left my shoulders , upper back and neck sore . My fun time was working : a guest on the Stay Healthy radio show hosted by nutrition maverick -Jeffrey Burke who hosts 10 shows per week at 8:00am and 5:00 pm PST Monday -Friday at www.klav1230am.com/ call in numbers are 800-820-1230/702-731-1230. The store on 840 S. Rancho Drive #14 /702-877-2494 offers the best in nutritional expertise . Ask for my friend Marge Jacobson ……she is a walking encyclopedia….

My goal after an early morning radio show with Ellen on www.kidkritics.com and a quick trip to LA X. My goal was to get out of Los Angeles and down to San Diego before rush hour (usually an all day occurrence 5 days a week !) and get to my first store training.

In the central part of San Diego is small Chinatown with a variety of cuisines in a 5 minute radius of small mom and pop establishments. The reflexology sign in the run down plaza window caught my eye … only $ 19.99 special foot massage. A little hesitant at 9:00pm at night I wasn’t sure how legitimate this place was although there were a stream of people of all ages coming in and out. … open 10:00am -11:00pm ? wow. Ok I chickened out the first night and ventured in after work the next day. What a pleasant surprise. A clean but very simple waiting area; with about 10 treatment rooms that held 2 recliners in each and a large staff ready to serve you. I am not a stranger to reflexology; I am a reflexologist and massage therapist who worked PT with Progressive Health Strategies in Fayetteville,NC (910-484-6934) where my friend & partner Lydia Chambers still focus’ mostly on feet and anti-aging facial massages.

I had no idea these places were available in abundance all throughout the Southern CA area. Allow a full 60 minutes for the LH Foot Massage. Jimmy my therapist did not speak much English but took care of me as though he did-a therapist is usually intuitive and thoughtful and he was terrific. The treatment started out with a 20 minute herbal soak and the remainder of the time spent on your feet, legs head and upper back. The strokes are short and deep and you are fully clothed. A feeling of relaxation and a slight amount of detoxing occurred afterwords. Check them out at www.ihfootcare.com 858-231-0128. This is an inexpensive way to keep your entire family healthy.

Remember to increase your liquids after any body work. That evening I took extra Dr. Venessa’s Formulas Liverclean-4 tabs, Taurine 1,000 mg, Turmeric 500 mg, Magnesium 500 mg and MSM 3,000 to facilitate the removal of additional toxins. A large bowl of Vietnamese soup, fresh herbs and veggies, protein and a fresh sour-sop fruit shake did the trick. Drinking additional beneficial fluids is needed to facilitate toxin removal which abundant in the larger bowls of healthy soups (clear broth not creamy). Eating these nutritious homemade soups (I usually leave 1/2 of my rice noodles in the to cut the carbs) is a way to keep weight down and detox too from substances that were in the tissues manipulated all over the body. Unfortunately, I had to travel northeast into the desert the following day or else I would have gone back .

A few days later I had my chance … Thousand Oaks,CA had another one called U-Relax Inc. that was referred to me by my friends Andy & Nancy while having dinner with them one night. Prices went up to $25.00, still a bargain. A little more upscale with red leather recliners in a large rooms, the people were again gracious and skilled. Their philosophy is that an improved circulation system will boost your immune system and relieve stress. The massage is different – short rough strokes that some of my friends refer to ask being ”poked” and “rubbed ’ instead of slower elongated flowing movements in a Swedish massage. Although this may be slightly painful to some sensitive souls but the outcome is terrific and extremely therapeutic. U-Relax is open 7 days a week 10:30 am -10:30 pm. They welcome groups, what a great way to celebrate your birthday with a couple of friends or even your family; much healthier than eating birthday cake.

Even Hollywood has them. Working in LA over the following weekend, my friend Stacey (who never told me about these before) wanted to get a foot massage after a long day of work at her store on Melrose Ave. www.greenlinebeauty.com. There were 2 nearby; Beverly Hills and Hollywood. We choose the one on Sunset Blvd and didn’t make it until 9:30 pm…..The therapists relaxing on a bench outside the Sunset Foot Spa jumped at the chance to serve us. This still amazes me. The therapist are all so humble and gracious and proud of their trade.

The Sunset Foot Spa offers both foot reflexology and acupressure massage starting at $25.00 per hour/massage at $40.00. The foot therapy I received was deep and therapeutic by a strong Asian man that I did not get his name . The slight numbing on my left side starting was reduced after this 3rd body treatment. Again, you are in a open room with 9-12 chairs. At Sunset Foot Spa, you even get a hot cup of green tea or a glass of water too. This is a well run operation at 5419 W. Sunset Blvd #3 with limited parking although there are some lots about a block away. Call for an appointment at 323-898-4220. Open 7 days from 10:00am -11:00pm.

Next on my travel list was the Dallas Fort Worth area for 5 days. As I am not a beer and BBQ fan I wondered if I could find one here too … I googled “Chinese foot massage” and found there were 2 in town. Icouldn’t believe it. The Arlington area of Dallas has small group of Asian businesses and this is where Foot Mark is located. Again, coming East prices went up to $29.99 and there was another one for$ 35.00 near downtown called Sole Therapy, a great choice if you are in town for trade show.

Foot mark is located in a busy plaza with terrific Asian restaurant from simple to elegant. Except for 2 nights, I ate most of my meals in this plaza! The Pho95 is a simple inexpensive noodle house with homemade soups and soft summer rolls. My favorite! Kim Hong, a little more upscale offers entertainment while the Thanh Thanh is a high end place that you will need reservations unless you opt for take out, which is terrific. A Thai restaurant, an Asian market, Acupuncturist & Herbalist were conveniently located in the same plaza – this was my new favorite spot in the DFW area.

Jake was my therapist at Foot Mark, he not only soaked my feet but washed them .He used a Thai stick to stimulate tough points on my feet and was very observant to my body’s stress areas. I managed to get to here twice around my working schedule. They book up quickly over the weekend so please call first as they do not have a website open 10:00am-11:00 pm / 817-276-1999. They are located at 2505 E. Arkansas Lane #141 in Arlington, TX. My body was feeling so much better with this bodywork. Foot mark has several private rooms for full body massage and offer specials for combination’s of bodywork for various conditions and a frequent customer card that gets you a free 30 min body massage after 14 treatments.

Unfortunately, South Fl does not offer these at this time or least I could not find one advertised. I settled for a chiropractic adjustment with Carol Krol,DC; a fabulous doctor who studied in Europe with Hans Nieper in Germany, one of the fore – runners of alternative medicine and natural treatments. She said that I have step up my upper body massages to prevent tissue scars from forming … what would I have been like without any work ?

Massage and bodywork of your choice is not just a luxury anymore but a health maintenance tool that grows more necessary with age. Carol also has a Bio-Mat one of my other favorite bodywork healing agents. The Bio-Mat mixes Infrared technology with Amethyst stones to promote healing , detoxification, promotes circulation, relaxation and electrical balance too. If you are in the Delray, FL area-You can locate her at 5180 West Atlantic Ave., Suite#123 or call 561-498-8005 for an appt . You will not be disappointed! Check out what your insurance will cover and source out local people who may work with you on a custom made package that you can afford. Regular maintenance at least monthly is better for your body than an occasional Spa Splurge. Everybody can relate to their car- if you only put oil in your car and check the gauges one a year, you may be in trouble. Regularly scheduled maintenance visits will save your health and money in the long run.

If you live in a larger city, check out the Chinese foot massage outlets. I know that I will !

BioMat relaxation

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May

Vermont’s Victory- Buy Local !

sally on May 7th, 2011

Saturday, August 14th, 2010

Traveling to Northern Vermont in July is fabulous,bringing me back to childhood memories of adventurous road trips with my mom & sisters to visit with cousins , aunts and uncles all over the state. This summer , my nutrition class of choice which is usually in Boulder ,Co was moved to Burlington , Vt .

Burlingfest is the brainchild of Robert Crayhon , a well known nutrtionist, author , speaker and radio show host who years ago made nutrition fun for me . He is an incredible man, with high integrity,a sense of humor and just happens to be a classic pianist . We students were enlightened by the nutrition experts and friends of Robert’s; world renowned Mark Houston, MD , Jonny BowdenRD( pictured below with me ) , Ellen Wright, MD, Mark Schauss,Jade Teta ND ,CSCS and Keoni Teta , ND , CSCS,Lac, Arthur Bartunek, MA, Robert bard, MD ,Nicholas Gonzalas , MD and more. I will talk about highlights of their talks in another blog.

Burlington this year was experiencing a ” heat wave” . I love the summer weather but 95+ degrees was too much for the locals and plant life. Nearby Lake George , the huge mass of water was starting to exibit several alage blooms ,an environmental hazard to its local marine life. Some of the beaches were already shut down in peak swimming season. The resident Vermonters however are tough . This out-doorsy bunch of locals love to get outside . They are environmentally inclined in so many ways . Everyone looked healthier than in most places I visit.

Vermont may be known as the “Green State ” but their tag line really should read: ”Buy Local” . The food is top-notch . Vermont residents are fiercely proud of their homegrown products from meats to milk ,produce , housewares and furniture . And of course everyone’s favorites, maple syrup, ice cream and cheese. Remember , this is the state that birthed Ben & Jerry’s , Cabot Cheese ,Stoneyfiel Summer 2010 039 d Yogurt and the hundreds of organic dairies that supply Horizon and Organic Valley with the best that New England has to offer. They pride themselves in heirloom fruits and vegetables: where else can you get 12 different types of lettuce in one store ? And in a rainbow of natural fresh picked colors ? It’s as though the varieties in popular seed catalogues come alive : leaf, oak leaf ,bibb, real dark green romaine ,purple lettuce, red lettuce , etc. Not just infactory- sealed plastic bags, but fresh. Large bunches fresh organic herbs arranged like flower displays and many other plants are everywhere the eye can see.

Instead of lamenting over the fact that I was in a hotel without a kitchen and the stores were overflowing with local mouthwatering produce …. , I took advantage of the plethera of local restaurants available to me . Two popular landmarks are Boves , a local landmark since 1941, nationally recognized for it sauces and meatballs ! www.boves.com/802-864-6651 and American Flatbread Pizza ,wood fired -made from scratch thin crust pizza ,www.americanflatbread.com/802-861-2999 both of them offering their products nationwide through natural food outlets.

Other favorites including Stone Soup , a simple organic “hippie’ type cafe where everything is made from scratch using organic and local ingredients satisfying everbody from Vegan to Carnivore . . Their iced mate tea and gluten-free carrot cake were awesome ! Their front window stays open in the summer and the ambience includes a flower garden,allowing a sense of belonging even when you are just passing through . A must experience ! 802-862-7616 , on College street …..

Even in the hot weather, hot peppers and herbs will balance your internal body temperature …so I sought out a noodle shop . I love the Vietnamese sytle big bowls of PHO soup. Fo a full palette of Asia’s best, try the Asian Noodle Shop-802- 862-8828 , a small, crowded basement restaurant off Church street that was perfect foe lunch . Iced ginger& green tea and thin rice noodles, fresh lime, jalepeno’s, basil & cilantro w/ thin beef strips satifised my appetite and fueled my body well. For exotic and herbal teas lovers should check out the Dobra Tea house , ww w.dobratea.com/802-951-2424,

Local Natural food stores are where I fueled up daily . Downtown’s City Market, a co-op and Burlington’s only downtown food market is an eclectic mix of natural foods and commercial mainstay foods with a large selection of take away dishes.It stays open until 11:00 pm so the convenience of late night snack attacks is better satisfied here than most other places- 802-861-9700.

Healthy Living, a few minutes away near the mall in South Burlington , is a gorgeous full service natural foods supermarket with a take out hot and cold buffet , and a wide variety of local travel treats . I was buying food from them daily . On Sundays their local farmers market is a big draw.The Samosa man is hoot and he sells his good in all the local markets …we don’t offer bins of samosa du jour her ein florida! ….Now if he would only make one flavor wheat free….. Vitamin Shoppe, the only one of its it kind in the enitre state located across the street keeps everyone nutritionally well stocked www.vitaminshoppe.com/802-862-3958.

Less than an hour away is Mount Pelier , the smallest capital city in the US , only about 8,000 residents and a joy to spend the afternoon. I was surrounded by bountiful flowers,produce, people and joy everywhere I went . For lunch in Mt Pelier, we ventured out to the local co-op Hunger Mountain ,www.hungermountain.com/802-454-8027. I continued to be impressed with the quality of the food and the friendly people . They will even honor other US Co-op membership cards to save you a few bucks. What a bonus ! As an employee said – Just how many co-ops can you join ? For us travelers, this helps. I am a member of a Tallahessee, FL co-op : New Leaf Market … www.newleafmarket.coop/850-942-2557, another fabulous store with both eclectic and essential nutrtional offerings.

My nutrition class turned into a bountiful organic food adventure with the location and the people who made the trip more enjoyable than most .

AIRPORT DELAYS: Travelers note: the local airport is torn up and travel delays abound with the runway expansion . If you have the time to drive ; fly into Bradley ( Hartford , CT ) ,make the 4 hour drive North . Stop at a few markets along the way and enjoy the foods that makes this state special !

Remember to go local and shop at your nearby farmer’s market this week and support your local community .

Your body , mind, spirit and pocketbook will thank you !

In Continued health ,

Sally Byrd

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May

Summer Scents – Aromatherapy

sally on May 7th, 2011

Friday, June 4th, 2010

Where did spring go? Summertime heat hit most of us of hard this last month after one of the coldest winters ever, across the entire country. The mugginess, mosquitoes, flies, tics, no-see-ums and more are upon us. There are numerous herbal and natural products that I use for natural bug and insect repellents. My herb garden has grown well in just a month; I already have herbs and flowers in bloom and am enjoying the fresh herbs with my meals and in my iced herbal and green teas.

One of my favorites is Rose Geranium which is part of the citronella family - there are many spectacular flavors ranging from lemon to chocolate. Rose remains a favorite and I use the essential oil as part of my summer scents to detract insects of all types. Perfume ceased to exist in my personal care routine after the dangers of formaldehyde poisoning, synthetic fragrances and chemicals emerged into my knowledge base about 2o years ago. So many people have allergies and or chemical sensitivities and they have no idea that it may be their favorite scent in body lotion or shampoo. Geranium, literally keeps the bugs away and helps you maintain a positive mood. People always comment on the fragrance.

Aromatherapy is a powerful healing medicine that has clinical applications in many areas from insect bites to many types of first aid actions. Oils can be anti-inflammatory, repellents, antiseptic, wound healing, anti-parasitical, deodorizing and emotionally lifting and healing.

Essential oils, the form of aromatherapy most commonly used, are usually steam distilled essences from fragrant plants, flowers and trees. The components are numerous rendering them for a variety of applications from a pleasant fragrance to a therapeutic condition.

The better oils that are not adulterated contain small molecules that can penetrate the skin and eventually enter into your bloodstream. The body usually clears them in under 14 hours. Essential oils are very concentrated and that is why a few drops be enough per application. The oils can be used singularly or in combinations depending on the result or fragrance you wish to accomplish.

I usually use a high quality oil like Aura Cacia ( www.auracacia.com) and mix it with an unscented body lotion, a neutral gel (aloe, calendula or silver) or carrier oil, body lotion or a light weight carrier oil like grape-seed (1 oz) Add in 3 drops of geranium, 2 lavender or lemon balm and 3 sandalwood. This emits a wonderful daytime scent that keep the bugs away and is less medicinal and healthier than conventional options. So many people ask me what perfume I am wearing. When Hiking or gardening, I use some tea tree mixed w/ geranium and or lavender and apply it around my hairline, wrists and ankles. The insects may still fly around you but they won’t land. Adding some oregano oil or thyme oil for tics may also be necessary when tromping through fields and grasses.

Other oils that can be used to repel insects or treat stings and bites etc are: Penny-royal, eucalyptus, citronella, rosewood, patchouli, cedar-wood and cedar. Choose the scents that you like and customize your own formula. Using over 5 different oils may be counter productive as the anti-bacterial qualities may be weakened – so stick to 2- 4 when customizing yours. A little goes long way. You can store them in the refrigerator for the best nutrient protection.

Oils can also be directly applied to your bath oil, light bulbs, decorative pine cones or used in a diffuser for additional home and or office protection or just direct inhalation directly from the bottle, a cotton ball or pie e of cloth.

For people with skin sensitivities, a drop or oil on a cotton ball behind your ear is a good way to test .Caution for pregnant women: Some oils will stimulate menstruation so please wait until after the first trimester and then perform a skin patch test. Also, oils like Bergamont should not be used with constant sun exposure, tanning beds or even a hot kitchen as it may affect skin pigmentation. There are other precautions for other ailments so always do your research first. One of my favorite very detailed books is The Encyclopedia of Aromatherapy by Chrissie Wildwood. An easy to read reference book is Aromatherapy for Everyone , by PJ Pierson & Mary Shipley.

Many women experience an increased of headaches in the warmer months. According to Chrissie Wildwood, a great balm for relieving headaches is as follows: massage the cream or oil into the base of the neck or on the temples in a small circular motion.

Headache Balm : 2 drops lavender , 5 drops eucalyptus and and 5 drops peppermint in an unscented carrier oil or cream (30 g)

Sometimes adding a couple drops of Clary Sage will offer additional benefits. This uplifting oil helps to promote laughter and a good mood. Works great in a diffuser with screaming kids or a challenging business day. For those of you who have trouble with insomnia, try adding these oils to your bath, pillow or sachet or using them on a light bulb in your bedroom. Oils such as Sandlewood, Chamomile, Lavender, Melissa, mandarin, hops, neuroli, ylang/ylang and vervitier may help relax your body when your brain would shut down .

Some of the oil brands that I like are Simplers Botanical corp ( www.simplers.com , Eden Botanicals ( www.edenbotanicals.com) Ananda Oils (www.anandaapothecary.com) and Young Living ( www.youngliving.org).

So venture into the world of aromatherapy and feel and sense the difference, without the risk of toxic chemical poisoning from your perfumes and your bug spray. You may be pleasantly surprised.

In Continued Health,

Sally Byrd

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May

Spring Allergies? Eat more Herbs & Spices

sally on May 7th, 2011

Tuesday, April 27th, 2010

ROSEMARY

Sally’s new Herb garden

The warm weather has finally hit Florida and the pollen counts are higher than ever. People are walking around with runny noses and red eyes from the Oak pollen that is dropping everywhere. Throughout the Southeast Region we are experiencing record high pollen levels. I am truly blessed with a very strong immune system, but for those that are not – It’s time to strengthen yours with some super foods that can recharge your health.

In regard to immune health protocols - Be sure that you have tackled the basics: extra B-Complex 50-150 mg, Vitamin C with bioflavonoids 1,000-3,000 mg, Quercitin 1500mg, Dr. Venessa’s Liverclean 3-6 tabs, Dr. Venessa’s Respiratory & Bronchial Support 4-6 tabs, and the North American Herb & Spice OregaResp 2-8 caps, with either Immune Power 2 caps , Host Defense liquid and Mushroom Wisdom Maitake & Reishi mushrooms extract , Allimax garlic and Silverbiotics or Sovereign Silver …

You can add some flavor and extra immune protection from the herbs and spices that you cook with. Not only do they help you recharge your immune system but they can build brain power, increase your metabolism , enhance your sleep , improve your mood while enhancing the flavor of your food.

Starting some herbs in pots on your back porch or in your apt or home is easy. The rewards are plentiful. With the help of my friend Danny, I now have a new raised-bed garden for my herbs. The Florida coast soil is alkaline and salty and the soil needs reconditioning with Black Kow or other soil enhancers. My favorite herb to grow here is basil and rosemary … I have the Queen Thai , Greek, Lemon and sweet large Italian leaf Basil and flowering rosemary . More favorites: Cuban & Greek oregano, pineapple and traditional sage, marjoram, bay leaf, Culantro ( doesn’t bolt as fast as cilantro) Italian flat leaf parsley, lemon verbena, lemon balm, lemon thyme, lavender and scented geranium and Thai peppers, garlic chives and lemon grass. The chocolate mint and an Egyptian mint are planted in another bed so they don’t cross pollinate with the basil … my sisters enlightened me to previous experience when their basil crop was ruined, making leaving both herbs with a bitter aftertaste .

ELLEN

I buy my herbs from Ellen Kirouac – Wild Rose Workshop at the local St. Augustine farmer’s market. Her herbs are organic and she always has a wide selection to choose from available. Plus she recycles the pots and trays. Her homemade jams and chutneys are very popular and her artistic skills grace a line of greeting cards. Ellen is a terrific resource-904-461-1284 or email her -wildrose2@bellsouth.net.

Although, I have been using herbs and spices liberally in my diet since childhood, they are finally earning media attention with integrative health professionals like Dr. Peter D’Adamo, Dr. Eric Braverman, Dr. Aman, Dr. Jonny Bowden and Dr. Andrew Weil. It’s about time. Food tastes so much better!

Basil, a relative of the mint family is not only great for relaxing your nerves and mucous membrane activity( sinus issues!) but it also serves as a mood elevator and digestive aid. Rosemary , a powferful anti-inflammatory has extraordinary circulation properties including passing through the blood-brain barrier to keep your processing speed reved up ……it also helps to remove additonal environmental toxins from your blood and will reduce your appetite in larger quantities . No household should be without it and it will winter even in cold climates.

Turmeric (you can also grow this but I buy it already ground ) is the best anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant exhibiting spice there is. Turmeric is amazing- breaks up brain plaque while improving circulation issues and can stop diarrhea and relieve bronchitis. Try some ginger and turmeric before you reach for an aspirin next time you have a headache. Learn to love curry as turmeric counts for 2% of this spice or you take in capsule/tablet form from Jarrow , New Chapter & Nature’s Way.

Marjoram and Oregano sometime get confused as they both help build immune support and taste great with Mediterranean dishes. Marjoram improves circulation and appetite while oregano acts as an anti-microbial agent and reduces the severity of headaches, coughs, allergies and colds. Culantro and Cilantro are some of the best detox herbs for heavy metals and toxins that store in your fat cells and reduce immunity as you age. I use Lemon verbena and Pineapple sage in my herbal ice teas, they keep you calm while maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Lemon balm, traditionally used to repel pesky insects, is a soothing herbal sedative that acts as an anti-spasmodic and anti viral agent. Sage exhibits a strong pungent and pleasant fragrance that helps to perk up sluggish memories, heal gums and tissue, reduce inflammation and promote a healthy overall nervous system. Bay leaves grown fresh taste completely different than those dried and left for months on the store shelves. Bay Leaves have anti-fungal and bacterial applications and help to balance elevated blood sugar levels. Many people with digestive disorders or edema /water retention use them for tea. The Thai hot peppers will be used to spice up my cooking and provide a healthy circulation, proper digestion and reduce mucus and allergy sniffles. I will be adding Datil peppers, a local Spanish hot pepper soon.

There are several favorites that I do not grow: Cinnamon being one of them. This sweet, flavorful spice encourages digestive, sugar regulation and adds an abundance of vitamins and minerals. Ginger, shredded on your food will add a zesty hot-pungent flavor while improving your circulation and digestion. Cumin (both the seed which is stronger and powder), another fantastic anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor regulating digestion and relieving coughs, flu and congestion. Some effective seeds like Coriander (from the cilantro plant) and Fennel seed provide digestion and immune support benefits too.

Using herbs daily will make eating more fun and provide the maximum nutrient benefits. Strive for at least 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs daily to make a difference in your health . Add in some fresh lime and or lemon juice, red onion, garlic, olive oil and you have a spicy nutritious base for any protein. With continued use, your health will be evident -whata difference for a few sprigs of herbs verses a large salad – no comparison on nutrient values. Earthbound Farms now has a mixed lettuce mix with added herbs to save oyu the fuss from what to add . Always buy your dried herbal powders and spices from a reputable source like Frontier Herbs – www.fronteircoop.com. They are of the best quality and are never irradiated for nutrient optimization. Dried herbs only last about 6 months so buy them in smaller quantities. Freeze your fresh herbal leaves chopped,whole or in a pesto spread to use in winter dishes when buying fresh herbs may be more expensive. Use them liberally year -round for the best health benefits.

Organic Farmers Jeff & Joan

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May

Wheat Free Favorites

sally on May 7th, 2011

Monday, March 22nd, 2010

Just coming back from the largest Natural Products show in the country is always both exhilarating and exhausting. What’s new, Where to eat, What brand is hot?, Who works where?, and the trade show mantra rolls on. Been attending to this show since the spring of 1984 …wow … how times have changed.

Gluten free products took center stage at Expo West this year . Our industry is turning out more and more products made with unfamiliar grains and starches to eliminate the wheat , barley , rye , oats and sometimes millet & buckwheat. Even the conventional supermarkets are adding more sku’s as public demand rises .Why the trend ? What’s wrong with whole wheat anyway?

Wheat in our present food supply ; organic or not -white or white -hard or soft, contains about 7x’s more gluten than our biblical ancestors . Gluten is the glue like protein that helps bread to rise , pizza dough pliable and chewy bagels .

Gliaden, the real culprit of the disease, is part of the gluten molecular structure. The intestinal villi become damaged and they lay flat in the “colon fingers” so the food particles are not absorbed but pass through the colon undigested causing chaos in other organs. Science show that this sensitivity to both Gliaden and gluten is commonly inherited. This interference with digestion inhibits the absorption of many important nutrients including fat soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D and K and even water needed for daily health.

The disease, named Celiac Sprue has gained public attention with both the medical field and with consumers over the last 75 years. The disease is vast and is not age discriminant. In children signs of stunted growth, loose bowels, vomiting and bloating are common. Adults symptoms span from intense food cravings to rapid weight accompanied by diarrhea, abdominal cramping, bloating and distention,intestinal gas, muscular atrophy and weakness, extreme fatigue, anemia, red blisters on the elbows, knees and legs, cracks in the tongue, edema and leg and toe cramping.

The only way the research has shown to reduce these symptoms is to eliminate the culprit foods from one’s diet. It is tough to make dietary adjustments, especially with a family or other people to cook for in your household. However, it certainly is better to remove a food, than to live in pain and possible addiction to prescription medications.

I missed seeing Jim Carrey at the show – he actually made a guest appearance at the Mary’s Gone Crackers booth . I believe his child has autism and wheat and gluten must be eliminated from their diet along with dairy products. These quinoa and flax seed based rice crackers are amazing, crunchy, unique and low in carbs, about 140 calories for 13 crackers and 3 grams of fiber per serving ! Other cracker favorites of mine are the Blue Diamond Nut thins (only 130 calories for 17 crackers!) Edward & Sons Brown Rice crackers and Sami’s Millet & Flax garlic crackers (wheat not gluten free). You won’t miss the saltines or Ritz crackers when you have these flavorful, lower carb and healthier alternatives.

There are so many great companies out there now. Instead of wheat (semolina or Durham flour) I use Tinkyada Brown Rice Pasta. You wont miss it. I even make my holiday lasagna using their noodles and nobody noticed the difference. Of course we all love brown rice and Lundberg Brown Basmati is fabulous along with Ancient Harvest Quinoa - that offer the highest protein of any grain and cooks in only 15 minutes.

I have been following a wheat free diet (with a few exceptions here and there) for the last 15 years when I started Dr. D’Adamo’s blood type program. I believe that changing my eating habits have kept my immune system strong, and have delayed common aging complaints and have kept me free of medications.

The list for healthier foods made with unique grains ,lower carbs and better fiber counts are what we need to live a healthier lifestyle. The offerings at the trade show are amazing and coming soon to a natural product store near you . From bread to pretzels to desserts and snack foods , you can make some better choices for your health without sacrificing the taste.

For more information about Celiac Sprue including a basic diet and recipes, contact the Celiac Sprue Association at www.csaceliacs.org

Be good to your body and it will be good for you.

In Continued Health,

Sally

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May

Auto Accident Therapy

sally on May 7th, 2011

Sunday, February 14th, 2010

On January 28th, driving from Naples to the Orlando area after a major training event, I was involved in a late night car accident where my 2007 Toyota Camry was totaled and no, the accelerator did not stick !

Yes, I was stunned, shocked and within minutes bruises and burns from the airbag and impact were visible on my legs and feet. I loved my car, but accidents do happen and it has been over 25 years since I have been in one. I am truly blessed along with the other young ladies involved to be alive today and thanking God for rescuing me from what could have been a tragic event.

Not wanting to go the Emergency room, I needed to get the inflammation and shock down fast as possible as my adrenals were working overtime and my blood pressure was temporarily elevated.

Before a late bedtime that evening, I took a scoop of Dr. Venessa’s Anti-Aging Collagen (my 3rd that day) – it is a terrific anti-inflammatory which will help the overall trauma, along with a hot shower and applied Arnica gel to reduce the bruising. I also used my Recovery Chips (needle free acupuncture stones) on my circulation points and slept only about 6 hours. I also applied a Tiger Balm patch on my neck.

The next morning – I was at the Harmony Health & Acupuncture Clinic located at 303 N Baker Street-Suite A, Mount Dora, FL receiving an acupuncture treatment from my friend and also the owner- Janean Hamilton, a registered nurse and acupuncturist. I was fairly bruised by now and my head suffered from pressure on the left side. Janean got me to take some Chinese herbs called Yunnan Baiyao for the next 3 days which are used in Chinese medicine for treating the early stages of trauma – 407-758-1880/ www.HarmonyHealthACU.com

Janean treated me for trauma and circulation and massaged Traumeel into my lower legs. Another version of this ointment Tropicin is sold in natural food stores.

I know with auto accidents that there are many delayed injuries and so the first level of defense was the Anti-Aging3 Collagen which I bumped up to 3-4 scoops daily.

I also doubled my brain and circulatory nutrients for the next 2 weeks just to be sure that my circuits were in working order. The trauma and impact that my body absorbed needed to be cushioned and the healing time needed, accelerated so I could function at optimum levels.

Supplements increased: Neuromins DHA: 400 mg, Acetyl-Carnitine 3,000 mg, PS 400 mg, Alpha GPC 1300mg, DMAE 600 mg, Pycnogenol 500mg, Turmeric 2,000mg, Gotu Kola 900 mg, Rescue Remedy 12 drops daily, Liverclean 8 tabs, Neuromaxx 6 tabs, MSM 8,000 g, Vit D 10,000 IU and extra minerals, L-Typtophan 1,500mg and 2 OregaResp caps, Quercitin 1,500 mg and Greens+ and extra Sun Chlorella for RNA & DNA repair.

For hydration, I drank Iceland Springs ,8.8 spring water and Essentia Water, 9.5 (with added Cell Food drops) – both high Alkaline waters to offset any additional acid produced by the accident trauma. Another new high Ph water, Aqua Hydrate at a 9.0 is also good.

To further reduce inflammation and keep my energy levels revved up, I increased my Itoen Sencha Shots, so I was drinking 2-3 daily or 2 bottles of the new Oi Ocha ,dark green tea with 3 cups of Guayaki Yerbe Mate Tea ( or 1 -18 oz glass bottle ) for mental clarity and the Numi Chamomile -Lemon Myrtle tea in the evenings with my Collagen. Lots of fluids to hydrate the brain. Remember when you are thirsty, 3% of your brain is already dehydrated. Aging already shrinks the brain, add in dehydration and stress. It’s no wonder many of us have trouble focusing and remembering details. Brain – dead takes on a whole new meaning!

Our brain is the computer chip or the fuse box of our body and controls everything else the body does. When communication is optimal everything else falls into place and you can focus on organ health and restoration. When involved in any accident, trauma or illness, protecting the brain has to be your first line of defense.

Due to a heavy travel schedule for work , that included NYC (1 day later for a live radio show on the Willner Window) to Los Angeles ,CA for trade show to ATL for trainings (yes, I may be crazy but the show must go on !), I followed up with another acupuncture treatment 1 week later at the Samra University Acupuncture Clinic and Health Center in Los Angeles: 1730 W Olympic Blvd, 3rd Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90015 – where my friend Laura Murphy practices # 213-381-1700. It is a great deal for all of us budget conscience folks – only $25.00 per treatment and the herbs are $8 – $12.00; a considerable cost savings. The therapists are excellent and they really care about you regaining or maintaining your health. A thumbs up in my book of great places for a body tune-up.

Recommended by Laura, another 3 day dose of the Yunnan Baiyao caps and an hour treatment that included rolling cupping to bring toxins to the surface – glass jars, oil and a lit candle -pretty cool! on my back and energy balance for my entire body. I was ready again to get on the plane for ATL the next day.

In the Atlanta metro area: Another good friend of mine is the most awesome chiropractor and body worker:

Dr. Tom Born 404 -408-0143, 1776 Peachtree Street in Mid-town ATL treated me twice for correcting my crooked hips and spine while also giving me some reflexology to improve circulation through my body, therefore reducing stress. Tom has been treating me on and off since 1984 when I was pregnant with my son! He is incredible and will work with you on the treatments as his work includes reflexology, stretching, some massage along with the adjustment. I felt so much better and was able to avoid any medications, even aspirin or Tylenol. My body is healing well and I will get a few more acupuncture tune-ups just to be sure.

Yes, I have some very good friends who are skilled and knowledgeable practitioners who really came to my rescue. I am truly blessed to be walking around and in good health. The good Lord isn’t done with me yet and I encourage all of you to take the time to get regular bodywork of some sort. Your body is resilient and will bounce back more quickly when the body’s fuse box is connected. Preventative medicine is still better than surgery, heavy medications and compromised mental ability and fatigue.

Just a few hours in car can tighten your neck and irritate your lower back. Add in traffic, delays and air travel ,computer or desk work and the stress is magnified. You may not even notice it for a while. I just purchased an Inversion table to help with stretch my back and encourage circulation between visits to my practitioners and to avoid headstands.

My friends call this the “bat table” – it really works!

So take care of yourself now. Especially in these challenging times where you do not want to land in hospital unless it is a true emergency. For everyday maintenance and preservation, get your winter tune -up now and feel better.

Psalm 91 excerpt: If you make the most high your dwelling-even the Lord , who is my refuge , then no harm will befall you , no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways they will lift you up in their hands so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. You will tread upon the lion and the cobra:you will trample the great Lion and the serpent.

In Continued Health,

Sally Byrd

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May

Freeport Friends

sally on May 7th, 2011

Sunday, January 10th, 2010

Ok , any excuse to go diving, spend some time with good friends, get some work done and stay warm during the winter months and I’m in ….. Little did I know about the massive arctic cold blast that hit the entire southeast coast including FL and the Bahamas this holiday. Heck, my wetsuit was the warmest piece of clothing that I packed! However, the average Bahama day at 53 degrees was still better than 33 in St Augustine .

My friend Karen Clarke is the owner of The Henry Thayer Company www.thayers.com since 1999 and spends time between her home office in Ct and her other office in Freeport, on the island of Grand Bahama. Her son John Gehr, the VP of sales and marketing has moved to the Island full time with his family. As avid outdoor enthusiasts, they love the winters better in Freeport than frigid CT. What a great life that they have all the comforts of a US business set up here. Thayers was started in 1847 and is world renowned for it Slippery Elm throat lozenges, dry mouth spray and pure witch hazel products that consumers from rock & roll groups to natural food enthusiasts love. I met some industry friends over there – now that takes commitment …. Howard Kaminski, Alan Purcell, Sue Bennett, and myself felt the warm weather pulling us south.

Diving, is a key water sport here and both Karen & John dive. The Atlantic ocean is 75-77 degrees this time of year but the air temp in the low 50′s combined with high winds made it very cold weather diving. I had to wear a skin under a 5 mill wetsuit. Surface intervals were cold and I was way out of my preferred warm water diving zone.

The diving however, was top notch – there were reef and nurse sharks on most dives with pristine coral formations and a 65-75 foot visibility. We dove with Unexso (The Underwater Explorers Society, originally started by Jacque Cousteau in 1965), based out of Port Lucaya a large well organized dive organization with a terrific staff www.unexso.com. You can dive or snorkel with them or even participate as a ” bubble watcher” to get a feel for the boat Shark feeding dives, dolphin dives in the ocean without a pen, night and cave dives are also options. Christine the head dive master and big boss, is a world renowned diver who tackles the cave diving expeditions while keeping the operation running smoothly. The limestone rock produced many caverns, similar to the Cenotes in Mexico … and little “Blue holes “ are common on many sites. My favorite dive was Shark Junction, a 55-65 foot sandy bottom with independent mushroom topped coral heads teeming with fish, rays, garden and moray eels and of course reef sharks – at least 6 -8 on each dive.

Many of the younger dive masters were interested in nutrition – they have a strenuous career choice – the diving is fun but putting up with Tourists 24/7 and keeping their immune systems strong can be challenging. I did lose an Endangered species organic chocolate bar and some Betty Lou’s Almond butter and Spirulina bars to the hungry dive masters…..I may come back to teach a nutrition class when the weather is much warmer.

Free port’s beauty is really below the water surface and with it people. The Island is 80 miles long and 16 miles wide. The community is tight and friendly and you feel welcome here. The online magazine The Bahamas Weekly co-owned by Robbin Whacell, another fabulous friend of Karen’s www.bahamasweekly.com. Robbin captured us all at the artistic and creative cuisine inspired Sabor restaurant New Year’s Eve where we enjoyed a splendid dinner, fireworks and dancing under the stars. It was our only warm evening. There is always something fun happening in Freeport and Karen seems to know everyone.

Although this Island offers a flat terrain with an abundance of saw palmettos, pines and scrub trees … gardens are easy to grow. The Garden at of the Groves is a beautiful tropical & lush 12 acre garden with a fabulous cafe with healthy offerings…….The 40 acre Lucayan National Park, 40 acres is also a must see at ($3.00 per person or free with a national park pass for $50.00 per year). You see some of the caves topside -like Ben’s cave and meander across the street and catch the local flora and fauna ending up on a deserted long beautiful beach where some of the pirates of the Caribbean was filmed.

When the weather returns to normal tropical weather you can kayak or tale eco-tours with Grand Bahama Nature Tours www.gnbtours.com or take a horseback ride along the beach with Trikk pony Adventures-242-727-0131 leo@trikkponyadventures.com We had an apartment at the Bell Channel Marina and cooked in some nights. There is an Italian grocery store and a fabulous market called Thompson’s to buy your natural mainstays, produce and fish & meats . Our favorite restaurant was Cappucino’s owned by a talented & hard working Italian – Danny & Tony who also owns a beachfront casual restaurant called that serves cuisine from curried chicken salad to spicy conch chowder. They cater to a large Italian market of visitors. We all agreed that the food was better than most in NYC … Other favorites were a casual Greek place – Zorba’s and Agave, with exceptional homemade and unique offerings. Conch chowder is the island favorite and everyone has their own recipe … I am not a fan of conch but the hot soup & hot chocolate warmed me up after the cold dives.

The most inspirational person that I met was Karen’s mom – Helen who will be 91 years old on the 25th and can run circles around most of us. She is of Russian & Chinese heritage and has always taken care of herself, eaten natural foods, limited fried foods and refined sugars, no sodas or junk foods and takes a multi-vitamin. She drinks a little red wine, reads daily and loves to walk, knit, swim, garden and keep her mind active by participating in various woman’s groups. She is planning on purchasing a new 4-wheel drive for her birthday! How many people can say that! She is one of my new role models. Truly delightful and a pleasure to be around. Karen has inherited some awesome genes!

One thing I learned on this trip was to appreciate everything that we have. Starting off this New year on a day to day basis and thanking God for all of the little blessings that come our way daily. Yes I wanted to swim & kayak and not work which I ended up doing almost every afternoon …but my mind still cleared and I did get some rest around the diving and our apartment did have heat!

Good friends are rare. Our natural products industry has so many people who have grown up with this business and we are bound for life as we continue to strengthen old relationships and build new ones. We are all different – so what ? We can all learn from one another and give thanks daily.

One of little gems that we discovered on the way to airport was a bakery named: “Praise the Lord” The women inside is absolutely precious and was cooking an island stew that made my mouth water! ( note: you can’t take any food out of the Bahamas since you clear customs in Free port not in the US) … a few friendly local Bahamians were enjoying her hot meals …the bakery was only a small part of the shop.

These locals truly enjoy life daily. I was overwhelmed by the friendliness of the native people to us. They live simple, happy and fulfilling lives. May we all take lessons from them. I am truly thankful for experiencing this culture and week with my friends.

Happy New Year to all of our readers and may the Joy of the Lord give you strength, happiness and prosperity this coming year.

In Continued health,

Sally Byrd

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May

Rosemary Buffalo Burgers

sally on May 7th, 2011

Monday, December 7th, 2009

Now during the hectic holiday season, people are stretched for time, money and personal space to relax. Usually nutrition & exercise fly out the window until New Years resolutions in January. Burgers with healthy ingredients can appeal to all of your needs. In particular, my Rosemary Buffalo Burgers help to improve circulation & metabolism while offering immune system support. These are not your greasy, fatty chemical-laden ,what’s in here anyway burgers but solid nutrition that fuels your body.

Since I am an Blood Type O, secretor & Hunter Genotype, Buffalo or beef can actually help my metabolism work more efficiently and provide the nutrition my cells need, while keeping my weight down. Not all red meat is bad for you.

Other blood types likes A’s can eat tofu, chicken, turkey or black bean burgers cooked the same way while B ‘s do great with Buffalo , Beef Turkey or lamb , AB’s with sprouted soy ,turkey or salmon burgers. Whatever protein, you choose this is an easy holiday meal on the run that will fuel your body well and help you to manage stress levels. Don’t skip meals.

The quality of the meat is essential for a healthy burger. Buffalo that are free of anti-biotics and hormones, and are grass fed top the list. Thanks to Ted Turner’s restaurants – TED’s … a chain that I can actually eat in …. Bison or Buffalo is becoming more common.

Rosemary Buffalo Burgers:

1 lb high quality ground buffalo/bison

1 small red onion chopped fine, set aside (option – ground turkey)

1 long sprig of fresh rosemary, snip off the tips with kitchen shears and discard the thick stem, set aside

3 tablespoons of grated Locatelli Italian Sheep’s cheese, set aside

8 oz cremini/baby bella mushrooms, sliced

6 oz fresh salsa

2 oz guacamole

dash of cayenne powder or sliced jalapenos

sea salt , to taste

Rosemary Buffalo Burger

Mix the Buffalo or turkey with chopped rosemary, red onion and the cheese together. Cook in little ghee or olive oil on a low heat. Flip once until done. Add the sliced mushrooms around the burgers and cook through. Add them on top of the burgers with a dollop of guacamole and a dash of cayenne or sliced jalapenos. Add the fresh salsa around the plate. The option shown here includes fresh asparagus and cherry tomatoes . Serve without additional carbs for a healthy weight maintenence meal or with warmed sprouted grain tortillas ( only 5 carbs ) cut into quarters.

Reminder : The additional holiday sugar-rich foods will take a toll for the worst on your health . Keep healthy snack foods around the house and limit baked goods and suagr laden foods. Keep them for treats. When you do indulge, be sure to use digestive enzymes and glucose control products like Dr. Venessa’s Sugar Balance to bring the insulin back down in about 40 minutes after a meal .

With powerful naturals herbals and foods like Gymnema sylvestre, cinnamon, nopal cactus and banaba leaf to regulate glucose and cedar berries, minerals and vitamins to help strengthen the kidneys, balanced with taurine and vanadium for a healthy mood , this product really works. Just take 2-4 vegetarian tablets after meals containing carbohydrates and/or refined sugars including alcohol , for proper insulin & glucose balance.

Sugar Balance

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May

Anti-Aging3 Collagen: Inspiration for Seniors & Pet Owners

sally on May 7th, 2011

Saturday, October 31st, 2009

Fitz & Sally

Jim ‘chooses’ to be happy and be a bright light in other peoples lives. He gives daily thanks to God and appreciates that at his age he is experiencing the best time of his life.

His busy life -yes he is still very productive; as he works part time in the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration service business. Every day Jim gets on his bicycle for 6 miles in the early am and 8 or 9 miles in the late afternoon.

Wow! He does more exercise than most people I know, including me ! His biking attire for S Fl is long sleeve shirts year round so he works up a hard sweat. You can recognize him as he bikes his daily route in a bright orange vest and reflectors for safety purposes.

Jim and I met earlier this year at Tunies , a natural food superstore in Coral Springs , FL owned by Al Foreman, that offers a vast selection of supplements, personal care and grocery items with discounted prices that everyone can afford. Check them out at: www.tunies.com …or give them a call: 954-510-0410 -they ship worldwide…..

Jim was undergoing some treatments with anti-biotics, at that time for skin cancer (squamous) and was limiting new supplements until the treatment stopped. However, when he heard about Dr. Venessa’s Formulas Anti-Aging3 Collagen he was intrigued and wanted to try it.

It has been almost 4 months now and Jim says he has finally found the Fountain of Youth in a bottle … at 1 scoop daily early in the am, he has managed to regain glowing, firmer radiant skin, has reduced his puffy eye look , his eyes are clear, fine lines and wrinkles are reduced , he has experienced a significant reduction in his belly fat, has faded the dark bruises and liver spots on his hands, while regaining some natural color in his beard and already has noticed new hair growth and his nails are a healthy pink , no spots with great circulation . His weight when he started this program was 235 . Jim has safely lost 34 lbs and is now weighs in at 201 !

Jim says people tell him he is getting ” skinny and younger ” and they can’t believe how he has changed. From his hair stylist to his medical doctor and dermatologist , everybody is intrigued. Just what are his secrets?

Jim’s Daily Super Supplement Program (give or take a few things…)

Early AM: Anti-Aging3 Collagen, 1 scoop in a large glass of water

AM: Dr Venessa’s Thyroid Balance , Raw Thyroid-about 30 min later : HCL w/pepsin, 2 tablespoons Carlson Fish Oil, PS (phosphatidyl serine) 100mg, DHEA 50mg, Vit D3 10,000IU

During the day: Solgar Chlorella, Opti-Zinc 60mg, Selenium 200 mcg, Kelp w/Folic Acid 600mg, Solaray 25,000 IU Beta Carotene, Folic Acid 5mg, Tunies Potassium Magnesium & Taurine, B12 5000 mcg, 1000 mg of both MSM & Glucosamine HCL, P5P-enteric coated B-6 & B-2, 1,000mg Vitamin C, 500 mg Quercitin, IP6

PM: Carlson Moisture Eye Formula, Solaray 160mg Saw Palmetto berries, 100 mg Ubiquinol, 2,000 Pantothenic Acid, Inositol

For an occasional ache or pain from too much riding …. Jim may add some Yucca or White Willow bark and SilverBiotics Silver for his Immune Health . Gosh, He takes almost as much as me!

Jim follows a vegetarian diet which seems to work for him and he eats rather well. His protein comes from eggs and multitude of fresh, organic and locally grown foods. He eats in season and loves FL avocados! After his am exercise , he makes a fruit slushy from fresh frozen berries, watermelon, pineapple, cranberries, Chia seeds and cinnamon. His sugar has fallen in the last few months to a 91-96 range and his PSA remains below .6 , which is good for his age.

Due to his heavy strenuous daily routine , I asked Jim to increase his protein a bit and add 2,000 mg L-Carnitine daily (for healthy cell and metabolic maintenance since he does not consume red meat and try to start eating some fish a couple of times per week as he is an O Blood Type .

Jim’s exercise regimen and upbeat attitude really puts him in a class of his own. The people who know him really think he is their neighborhood “Mr. Wonderful”. One person can make a difference , just ask Jim or any of his neighbors….

Canine Concerns :

Anti-Aging3 is now going to the dogs … really! When my sister Suzanne called me with this story I had to laugh. If people don’t want to help themselves with better health supplement protocols they will bend over to accommodate their pets , no matter what the cost …….

Her dog Vino (yes, she’s Italian) is an 11 year old female Lab who literally was on her last legs. She had been limping for over a year as her back leg was hurting with severe inflammation, her energy was down and she was in pain and could not even go up and down the stairs by herself anymore. She was 1 week away from getting put down by the local vet.

VINO

So , since Collagen helped her so much this past year ,as due to several people’s joint testimonials, Vino started getting 1/2 scoop (a 75-80 lb dog) of the mixed berry collagen with apple juice in her bowl first thing in the morning. No food until 30 min later. She loved it from day 1 and lapped it up like a dessert.

After 30 days, Vino was a new dog. Her energy bounced back, she wanted to run, walk around the neighborhood , like the old days . Suzanne said , “I have a new dog !” as Vino is now running up and down steps …..even the neighbors commented on Vino’s energy and several of them have now started to take the Anti-Aging3 to help them with joint pain and energy.They wanted to start using whatever that dog was taking ….. Maybe we should start using pets to advertise ?After 30 days Vino is now down to a maintenance dose of a tablespoon a day . For dogs with sensitive systems, please start them off slowly with only 1 teaspoon , as some of them may react to high dose of vitamin C .

My sister Suzanne , at 47 years old was beginning to experience the signs of Peri-menopause -she slimmed down from a size 12 to a size 4 in less than a year taking 2 scoops daily and adding Dr Venessa’s Liverclean and Sugar Balance to her program. She also reduced her coffee consumption and limited wheat flour products as she is also an O Blood Type. Suzanne experienced a reduction in sweet & caffeine cravings , noticed a more balanced hormonal levels and feels better overall.

She can’t live without it now.Below is a current photo of her and her daughter, Briella.

At the office , we receive testimonies weekly and I would love to learn of your success stories.

We will continue to keep you posted. Please send in your story and maybe you will get published……………..

In Continued health,

Sally Byrd

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May

Blood Type Diet Success

sally on May 7th, 2011

Wednesday, September 30th, 2009

Last month you all heard my personal story about my life changes with Dr. D’Adamo’s Blood Type and Geno Type lifestyle programs. To everyone who wants to make a change but doesn’t think they can do it here is Allison’s story. She will motivate you. Remember that we are all different and there may be changes and some alterations to customize your personal plan.

Allison, a 32 year old New Yorker, was tired of being overweight, bloated, feeling and looking tired with lower back pain and achy joints. Her frustrations carried over into her personal life as anger, aggressiveness and a low self esteem. I had known her about 5 years before she came to work with me at Dr Venessa’s Formulas (but her NY retail stores- knew her for 7 years as a natural products sales rep) and she has observed my dietary patterns and energetic happy spirit for years.

Allison was a determined student; willing to stick with a common sense, simple plan that could be followed during a hectic work and travel schedule. She wanted success. All she needed was a little coaching and a plan to follow.

March 2008: Month #1 – Starting out is always tough. I started her on Dr. D’Adamo’s AB blood type program from the EAT RIGHT 4 Your Type -Encyclopedia and she was forced to give up her 2 favorite foods – shrimp and blue cheese. We had to start eating correctly and getting her off the foods that were fighting her digestive system ,weakening her immune system and emphasize foods that would strengthen her immune system and slowly detoxify her body of stored poisons and excess waste matter. To ease the dietary adjustment , and focus on eating the correct foods - I also supplied her with a handy laminated wallet card for her blood type (Dr. D’Adamo sells online www.dadamo.com) so she didn’t have to memorize everything overnight.

AB best proteins that she liked: turkey, wild salmon, eggs, lamb, cod, grouper, sardines, Tongol Tuna.

For AB vegetarians the best beans are lentils, pinto beans, organic soybeans, navy beans, tofu and tempeh.

The simple carbohydrates and sugars were reduced and the fiber-rich vegetables increased.

Beverages included cutting out the coffee and increasing water consumption (high alkaline H2O) and adding green tea. Since Allison is on the go all the time – the ready to drink Sencha Shots or the new product Oi Ocha dark (worth 10-15 cans of green tea in one 16.9 oz bottle!) from Itoen act as metabolism stimulators (1 can equals the EGCG in 5 cups of green tea) and can help the body adjust and rekindle lost energy and stamina . No alcohol allowed during this time of cleansing.

Exercise: Allison started working out at her fitness center with a personal trainer 2x’s per week.

Month#2: Supplement time. After a month of food and exercise regulation it was time to start on the supplements.

Here goes:

Dr. Venessa’s Anti-Aging3 Collagen: 1 scoop in the early am before exercise, on an empty stomach

Dr. Venessa’s Liverclean: 6 tabs after her morning workout, with breakfast

Jarrow or Royal Brittany Evening Primrose Oil: w/meals -1 1300 mg softgel

Jarrow MSM (Opti patent): – 3 caps -3,000 mg daily anytime

New Chapter Zyflamend: -2 softgels w/ meals

New Chapter Bone Strength: - 1 tab daily w/ MSM

Jarrow L-Glutamine: - 2 -1,000 mg tabs w/ Liverclean

After 3 months on this plan Allison’s dark circles started to fade and her skin tone improved. Her weight started to shift. Allison also received weekly chiropractic treatments to keep her central nervous system working at its peak.

Occasional massages and acupunture treatments also helped during stressful times. Her immune fighters of Silver, Wild Oregano and Spirulina tabs were added in as needed.

Before

After 8 months we finally had to go shopping. Her clothes were so baggy and all of her accounts could not believe she was the same person they had known for 7 years. She was happy. Weight loss was about 40 lbs.

March 2009: After 1 year she was up to 52lbs of weight loss and feeling and looking terrific at a size 16. Her mood swings had mellowed and she also managed to find time for spiritual renewal ” Praise God” and continued her exercise regime. I started her on a few extra supplements. Allison was now 33 years old with glowing skin and reduced joint pain but wanted to lose more weight.

We added: Dr Venessa’s Thyroid Balance: -6 caps per day with the Liverclean & L-Glutamine in the am( reduced back to 4 caps after 4 months)

For 4 months we increased the Liverclean to 12 daily (split dose), increased the Anti-Aging3 Collagen to 2 scoops daily and added an Immune Builder with Pro Biotics (Dr. Venessa’s VIP-20X and also the North American Spice Wild Oregano and SilverBiotics as needed) and really cut down the amount of carbohydrates she was consuming. IE : she went from eating Ezekiel bread 6-7x’s a week to 3 x’s a week. Exercise now included bi-weekly Pilates and Cardio Training.

AUGUST 2009 :

RESULTS after 16 months: a 60 lb weight loss that was safe and has stayed off. Her skin is radiant and her circles are hardly visible. Her snoring has been reduced by 80%. Her cellulite has started to fade in her upper legs, her joints have quit hurting and her back is stronger.

Her attitude is joyful and energetic and she now looks 10 years younger. In the last 4 months she has lost an additional 9 inches as follows: 2 inches off her waist, 2″ thighs, 2″ hips and 2 1/2 inches from her chest and 1/2 inch off her arms. Allison is still following her program and is inspiring everyone around her…. and no diet pills or fad diet disguises – anywhere. This is the real deal!

For those of you who have given up ….. take a new look at what are you really eating? Start to improve yourself by taking a healthier option.

Step 1: First find out what your blood type is … whatever eating program you may decide on do it by your blood type and your will experience better results. So get started this fall and avoid the winter weight gain dilemma.

Step 2: Find some type of movement that you like – the fitness center or structured classes may not work for everyone. I do not like gyms except for the light weights- treadmills bore me so I may run up and down stairs, take long walks or roller blade to get cardio going. Of course my Infared sauna helps to also do this and to detox at the same time.

Step 3: Find someone who inspires you . Read scriptures and work to keep a joyful attitude . Be grateful for all improvements -no matter how small.This is a new lifestyle not just a diet.

So get started now and avoid the upcoming holiday torture by being prepared . Know your food options and where you can bend the rules or be strict.

Allison is enjoying some red wine these days while her weight loss and fitness program continues to improve. I think we have a shopping date in mid October !

In Continued Health,

Sally Byrd

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May

Blood Type for Better Health

sally on May 7th, 2011

Monday, August 31st, 2009

The Blood Type Diet ? What’s that?

Eating by your blood type often raises many eyebrows in the media, ignites criticism and disbelief throughout the medical community and confusion among consumers. I have been eating and living by blood type principles set into place by both Dr.James D’Adamo and his son Dr. Peter D’Adamo for about 13 years.

Yes, many consider me to be a blood type groupie and due to the positive results that I have experienced along with my nutritional background, I have become certified as a Master of the School of Human Individuality-MIFHI, spearheaded by Peter D’Adamo and the SW College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, AZ to help spread his message of living and aging well.

In this day of media generated Health Care Chaos (my previous blog), swine flu vaccine scare tactics and fear, changing a few foods and lifestyle adjustments to work with your daily routine is cost effective, safe and with a little planning easy to do for most people.

Dr. D’Adamo’s latest research into Epi-Genetics is the next step for us to wanting to maximize our aging process but starting with Blood Type eating plans is the easiest way to get started … if the blood type program does not work for you, you may want to investigate what I call Blood Type +( as blood type is just one of thousands of genes) the Geno-type program which includes Blood typing but adds in genetics, body types & measurements , finger print patterns and much more designed to help us fight pre-mature aging and disease. Check out his comprehensive website at www.dadamo.com which includes food charts, science validation, testimonials and blogs covering numerous subjects.

Dr. D’Adamo and Sally

Because we are all different, not every dietary plan, latest super food miracle claim or dietary cure-all will work on everyone. Most food plans and diets should be customized to meet an individuals needs. Just because it works for your friend, co-worker or neighbor, does not mean it will work for you. I often tell people that whatever diet or lifestyle plan you choose, do it by your blood type to get the best results.

Several months before he died, Dr. Atkins asked me why doesn’t everyone lose weight on his diet program? I told him the A’s and AB’s had trouble digesting all the meats and cheeses in his plan and the foods needed to be altered to support their blood type. He was intrigued and was actually researching the blood type approach when his life abruptly ended. I wish that more medical doctors would at least investigate and try for themselves these principles instead of rebuking them with little knowledge of the vastness of the years of research and patient trials and testimonials.

Think of the Blood Type program as your lower cost health care plan – Eating by Your Blood type can offer offer you ammunition for aging well by boosting your immune system, balancing stress levels, better mental clarity, digestive system support, improved metabolism, better sleeping patterns and balanced energy levels ;therefore equipping you both mentally and physically able to tackle life’s challenges. It is the foundation of better health and another puzzle piece to customize a life-long wellness program for you, as an individual.

There are 4 basic blood types:

Currently the O’s are 45% of the population, A’s are 40%, B’s are 9-10% and AB’s about 5-6% and there are hundred of sub blood types like your Secretor status, Rh negative or positive.

Which one are you ? If you don’t know, the best way to find out is to donate blood and it won’t cost you a dime.

Blood Type Basics:

I. One factor in the blood type research , is the determination of the presence or lack of anti-gens . Antigens can be environmental or from within your body. They are just one type of chemical marker for blood typing foods. When your immune system is working well, it ‘s job is protect you from foreign bacteria, virus’, parasites, infections etc. When a foreign substance enters the body the immune system your B-lymphocytes and T -lymphocytes cells, go to work and check for your blood type anti-gens. If it finds a foreign anti-gen (a “poison” to them) then it will manufacture anti-bodies against this food, bacteria, infection etc. Cell clumping known as “agglutination” occurs. Cells start to stick together or as D’Adamo says – “like handcuffed a bunch of criminals” … it is easier to manage them than having them roam your body freely. This process taxes the bodies’ energy reserves and make it more difficult to digest your food. The agglutination is like a gun shooting glue into your bloodstream and having it attach to Velcro like substances and sticking. This impairs circulation, nutrient absorption, digestion, energy and slows down most of your bodies pathways. Continued use of these negative food triggers will dull and irritate your immune system and making way for disease to incubate. This method is very easy to distinguish under a microscope. Blood type anti-bodies are produced automatically and do not need a vaccination or infection to start the process. Amazing!

II. Secretor’s a sub blood type marker, (a simple spit test) makes up about 85 % of the population and can secrete their blood type anti-gens into their body fluids along with their blood. Non-Secretors can only do this in their blood and are usually susceptible to a weaker immune system. The food choices vary slightly.

When the body functions better the ability to handle stress for both the sympathetic (flight or fight) and parasympathetic system (nervous system calming) are able to function equally well and work according to God’s divine plan. Most people today live in chronic stress that ignites the sympathetic system driving up cortisol and stressing out the adrenals, thyroid, and pituitary glands. The blood type lifestyle helps to balance this process.

III. Then there are the food lectins. This is what the medical profession can’t seem to get their hands around and thinks the blood type is only about lectin content .There is much more to it but lectins do fit into the puzzle ……

Lectins are proteins that can attach to the carbohydrates on your cells and are blood type specific. Some lectins are good for you while others create digestive disturbances and can release Histimine leading to many food allergies. Some lectins are increased in intensity by cooking like wheat germ, while others are destroyed by heat .

Both wheat and peanut lectins for O types cause gut problems as they bind to intestinal walls. Avocado lectins for A blood types actually prevent cavities since bacteria is prevented from binding to tooth plaque. Dr D’Adamo has already done the painstaking laboratory cell analysis for you to and has charts and foods lists available on www.dadamo.com. Check it out.

I am an O blood, Secretor and a Hunter Genotype. Although I ate meats growing up, my adopted vegetarian (except for fish) and higher carbohydrate diet in my mid-20′s started to slow me down by my mid 30′s. Even though I had read James D’Adamo book – One’s Man’s Food is another Man’s Poison, I was naive and stubborn and could not see that organic wheat products, dairy products from cows and white potatoes could be causing me to bloat, causing weight gain, hormonal imbalances and foggy brain at times. Hey, I ate organic and took all of my supplements!

So when Peter’s book arrived in 1996, Eat Right For Your Blood Type, Then Live Right, Then Cook Right .… (The Eat Right for your Blood Type, Encyclopedia and his book on Aging-Fight it with your Blood Type is my favorite) I decided to try his program and felt better within a couple of weeks. I have been following the diet ever since and it is my lifestyle now.

There are a few modifications due to my genetic heritage like avocados, capers, mushrooms, red wine and sheep’s milk cheeses that actually agree with me. Of course these foods are part of my Italian heritage and concur with the newest research for Geno-type. The wheat products (doesn’t matter if its organic) whole wheat products do not work for me and are my #1 poison. I have been strict with avoiding them , even eating on the road ( about 200 days a year ) and now consume brown rice pasta or sprouted grain breads.

The rest of the program I am very strict with and will choose carefully when I will cheat ( holiday meal , vacation or special treat ) and will add in Dr D’Adamo’s Deflect supplement when I do . Although my travel and work schedule is hectic, I am aging well for a 51 year old and have a balanced weight and lots of energy . I am not bloated any more from excess wheat consumption which provides me with terrific health. By the way , I have breezed through menopause.Very grateful for that .

Getting Started:

1. Find out your blood type and secretor status. You will need to know this anyway as soon as you turn 50 and want an AARP membership. In many countries, blood type is important for personality traits – even for dating! Don’t let your practitioner put you down for wanting to know yours. It is a part of your aging well program.

2. Check to see if foods you are eating daily are on your avoid list. If they are on this list , eliminate them as quickly as you can. This process may take a while. Don’t give up. Save them for treats or holidays only .Even if you can eliminate them for the work week andallow yourself a treat on the weekends. Eventually oyu will be able to feel the difference the avoid vs the beneficials make for you.

3. Start to eat as many beneficialand foods as possible. These foods will be part of your optimal immune function. Learn to manipulate menu’s when eating out. I do this frequently and most restaurants will work with you. It becomes a habit after a while that this is how you will be eating for the rest of your life. You can still cheat occasionally after you achieve some balance.use neutral foods to fill in your dieary needs.

4. Add in Blood Type friendly supplements and nutrients. Several immune disorders are blood type dominant and knowing this information, you can ward off many illnesses or weaken their severity.

5. Approach this plan with a good attitude. I have taken many “arrows” and criticisms over the years but I am the one that is usually healthier and more fit than those in condemnation. Listen to your body and see how you feel about an hour after eating certain foods . Keep smiling !

6. Exercise is very important and work with your suggested blood type program . Also learn the stress balancing techniques that work per blood type to help create a balanced lifestyle. From my own experience, I know as an O, I will drive people nuts with my high energy level if I don’t get in brisk walk or some other form of exercise daily …..

7. If you get stuck or frustrated, send me note or check out the books or the website for more information. www.dadamo.com or www.drvenessa.com

We will be continuing more in this area as these programs are becoming a benchmark for a better way of living and aging well. Dr D’Adamo is in continued research mode-the man never sleeps , he is absolutely brilliant and loves numbers . He writes his own software and knows more about food interactions in the body than anyone I know . We the public , owe so much to both he and his dad for taking the research and bringing it to the marketplace in a simple fashion in a cost effective way to understand our bodies better.Also there is is wife Martha ( O secretor , Hunter ) who supports him 150% …

There is a such a vast amount of research here and I want to give you the baby steps to get started. Start supporting your own Immune Health now and start your new program today -Do it Right by Your Blood Type……Do it at your own pace but just do it ….start now.

In Continued Health,

Sally Byrd

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May

Health Care Chaos

sally on May 7th, 2011

Friday, July 31st, 2009

: We love our Country , Let’s preserve it

If you are like me it is difficult to watch the news today ; the negativity surrounding our economy , our lives, our actions and the blatant illogical decisions coming from our illustrious leaders in Washington can stress-out even the most sensible balanced person .

In my health seminars , I continually make the comment about taking charge of your own health . This was drummed into my head even as a child by an independent thinking ,common-sense mom who refused to feed us junk food or cokes or listen to lies even in the 60′s when eggs and fat were going to kill us.

As a young girl who was ridiculed for eating whole grain dark bread, artichokes, sardines, raw milk , hot peppers, sprouts, yogurt , trail mix, vegetables ,who drank homegrown chamomile iced tea instead of sodas and who took supplements to school and later on to work, I know. I have been there , done that .Persistence & tenacity pays off in the later years and ignorance in youth can be cruel .

Do not put your health into the hands of our government . Just because insurance pays for it ,it doesn’t mean you should have the surgery , take the prescription or use that treatment . The people who do need the government support ; our veterans , the disabled, the terminally sick, young children and emergency health care are different . For most of us we can take action to help ourselves. The latest health care bill is a joke and an embarrassment to our heritage.We the people and citizens of our country need to fight back . The government is supposed to be working for us , not against us .

Staying healthy in this country can be expensive .We are currently penalized for taking care of ourselves. I rarely get reimbursed for any of my integrative health care choices because I choose my own therapists and natural minded practitioners ( acupuncture, chiropractic , deep tissue massage, reflexology , colon therapy, foot detox and infrared sauna therapy , preventative dentistry , supplements along with other necessities to keep me well. Why is it that some countries like Asia , physicians get paid when their patients are well. We are working in a reverse negative manner and need to change.

Except a yearly physical , I pay out of pocket and give up other things . To me health is of the utmost importance because without it, we cannot fulfill God’s purpose for us here on earth . We all have dreams, jobs, careers, hobbies and activities in areas that we are passionate about . Purpose is why we are here and if we lose that drive or that passion , we will become like sheep instead of shepherds.It is easier to manipulate and control sheep than their leaders( shepherds) .

Our affluent country is a health care mess and each of us who is not disabled , of legal age and of healthy mind has a responsibility to take care of ourselves. First become aware of the bills being passed and get involved by writing or volunteering if you have time. I actually went to a local tea party this month in St Augustine. A refreshing message was projected as follows:

To support the constitution, To give back this country to the people by voting , not force. To protect our free speech in all media outlets, To promote fair taxation for all citizens. T0 promote immigration legally instead of through amnesty . To support significant tax reform and fair tax regardless of party affiliation.

The 12 core values and principals promoted really hit home for me . Honesty , Reverence, Hope, Thrift, Humility , Charity , Sincerity , Moderation, Hard Work , Courage , Personal Responsibility and Gratitude.

For additional information or to get involved in your hometown visit:

www.UnitedAmericanTeaParty.com or www.JustPatriots.com or www.libertyaction.org.

www.freeourhealthcarenow.com & www.fairtax.org

Here is what you can do now to prevent your own health care crisis:

Start eating better . It may take a tremendous willpower in the beginning not to eat how your friends eat ,or to just order off the menus instead of customizing a few things in restaurants.

Be sure to let your family and friends know any changes before you are invited to eat at someone’s home. Even on airplanes I am noticing some minor improvements. I was excited to see apples and bananas offered in the first class cabin of Delta now . A much better choice than the sugar & fat laden cookies or salty snacks that are usually free. It is better to fast than to eat that stuff . The calories are just not worth it. Bring your own tea or snacks especially if traveling with children or taking medications with you.

Avoid processed junk foods , artificial sweeteners colors & flavors, high fructose corn syrup , genetically modified foods ,excessive grains , excessive sweets, cellular damaging oils like cottonseed,corn or soy and irradiated foods . For additional assistance visit www.betterfoodchoices.com or www.kidkritics.com if you have children or grandchildren to feed.

Eat organic when ever possible- especially the top 12 foods commonly known as the”dirty dozen” below that contain the most chemicals, so balance your grocery budget around these foods being organic,regionally grown, in season or grow them yourself:

DIRTY DOZEN: Peaches, Apples, Bell Peppers, Celery, Nectarines, Strawberries, Cherries, Pears, Grapes(imported) Spinach , Lettuce, Potatoes.

To save money and to support farmers growing ethical and heirloom crops ( NON-GMO) support regionally grown foods without chemicals at your local farmer’s market , or natural food supermarket . Buy in bulk when you can and use your crock pot. The Slow food movement is spreading and is healthier for you .

I did this many years ago as a young working single mother . Make soups , stews , fiber rich bean dishes and buy local food . This can really save you money while providing nutritious meals for your family .

Eat less calories, live longer and healthier . Drink herbal teas instead of sodas. Water instead of juice drinks etc .

Cook your own food instead of eating frozen or canned processed meals .

The economic downtown has forced people to change their habits. This is a blessing .Our excessive society needed to change. We need to get back to our roots and learn why to use natural remedies first , when combating everyday colds and flu ….don’t run to the doctor for every sniffle or reach for an over the counter drug . What would your great-grandmother have done years ago ?

For optimum health , NEVER get a flu shot unless it is a life or death situation.The swine flu scare this summer is another tactic to instill fear into America, to force vaccines loaded with chemicals into your body . There are other ways to explore first and the vaccines should be your very last resort , if at all.

Boost up your immune system : Each of you can develop your own nutritional weapons- my arsenal of protective immune supporting nutrients include : Dr Venessa’s Anti-Aging3 Collagen & Liverclean , North American Spice Wild Oregano, Silver Biotics Silver spray & ASAP gel , Allimax Garlic , Greens +, Host Defense Mushrooms ,Maitake or Reishi Mushroom extract Osha Root , Turmeric and Quercitin. Your immune arsenal may vary a bit as I am an O blood type & Hunter Geno-type. More on this subject soon.

Meanwhile, take action for yourself , your family and your country . Grow something …even a potted herb like basil , will help Support local & organic food.

Teach your kids and your grandchildren about food sources and get them involved in cooking and buying better quality food. Eat God -made food for God for your made body.

Eat home more and learn to cook something new…share food and recipe ideas with your friends..get to know your neighbors and give thanks to God every day for what you do have . Stay joyful in all that you do .

“ A joyful heart is like good medicine but a broken spirit dries up the bones ” Proverbs 17:22

Be Pro Active. You can make a difference.

In Continued Health ,

Sally Byrd

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May

Aloha … Hawaii at work & play

sally on May 7th, 2011

Saturday, June 27th, 2009

Hawaii, the big island of love and extremely friendly people was definitely worth the long plane trip and temporary jet lag. I would have liked to have spent more than 6 days, but work on the mainland beckoned and reluctantly,I had to get back…

I am dedicating this blog to my good friend Steve Spiers, a 30 year natural products veteran who traveled to heaven on June 28th . He and his loving wife Trixi, were some of my role models for becoming a diver and shared my sense for adventure for living life to the fullest. They traveled to Europe , the Caribbean , Belize , were married in St. John (the very best wedding ever!) and could not wait to go diving again when their son, Max was old enough. During his illness, Steve asked me to take photos and to share my travels with him and of course, pray …since he was unable to go. Steve brought so much happiness, camaraderie and a smile wherever and whomever he was with. He suffered tremendously these last 6 1/2 years but always managed to smile and stay positive. He was a leader, a friend, a fabulous husband & father, one of God’s very special children. Steve would have loved Hawaii and he was even in my spirit while I was diving. He is at peace now with the Lord. Praise God. He inspired all of us and we will miss him.

Traveling to Hawaii to work with a longtime friend of mine, Andy Jacobson, who is the current president & CEO of my favorite Spirulina company – Cyanotech ( wwww.cyanotech.com) was fun. As a longtime user of green super food products, I have been using this nutrient for years as it is the key ingredient in Greens+, a unique blend of super foods & herbs . Cyanotech Hawaiian Spirulina Pacifica is also sold separately under their retail brand, Nutrex www.nutrex-hawaii.com

The pristine weather conditions of the Kona coast – sunshine and 5-10 inches of yearly rainfall – offer a unique environment for growing both Spirulina and Astaxanthin,potent micro-algae’s that should be part of everyone’s daily health regime. Spirulina is one of the best super foods to slow down the natural aging process and fuel the body with naturally occurring B-12 , Vitamin C, SOD, Fiber, Protein, Zeaxanthin, and additional Carotinoids along with a vast array of color rich phyto-nutrients. Astaxanthin is popular for joint-related and inflammation issues and is also a skin saver for those who love the sun.

Cyanotech is blessed to have its own beach and oceanfront real estate on a 90-acre lava field. The facility is amazing to visit and well run. The colors of the brilliant blue-green Spirulina (phycocyanin gives it the blue color) and the coral color are Astaxanthin and beautiful and beneficial for both inside and outside the body. A research video is in the making and will air sometime this year on PBS. Stay Tuned!

Gerald Cysewski, the original owner and founder of Cyanotech, and the visionary behind the process is a humble genius and a forerunner for nutrient dense Superfood production in the natural products industry… What a pleasure to work with such dedicated folks who care about nutrition, the environment and about being the best they can be.

Landing on the Big Island, you might think you have landed on Mars , the charcoal- brickett-dry ground of dark Lava-land instead of a lush landscape elsewhere on the island. There are 13 different climate zones on this island, enough to satisfy everyone. Tourism is down, but the majority of the people are happy, willing to help folks, and a pleasure to interact with -even mailing things home from the local Kailua-Kona post office was fun plus you get to sample homemade chocolate “macadamia nut honus” (or turtles in English) for free since the Kailua candy company operates there too… locally owned they only use real natural ingredients… no corn fructose or GMO foods and pure sugar cane as the sweetener … check them out at 800-622-2462 www.kailua-kandy.com. This location is on the way to Costco, a life-saver for your grocery budget if you are renting condo or apt with a kitchen.

The Kona side is growing with the big-box retailers moving in providing the locals more choices. However, I frequented the local places to get to know the people who live there and experience the true Hawaiian lifestyle. A guidebook you can’t live without is HAWAII-The Big island revealed by Andrew Doughty who actually lives in Kailula-Kona. The locals confessed to me that when they want to travel around the island they use this book as their reference.

A quick 2 night stay at the Sheraton, just south of Kailula-Kona in Keauhou, was a nice facility with large, clean rooms, but had overpriced and bland food. They have been warned by many guests, so hopefully they will improve. In the meantime, eat local. The highlights of this hotel were the immaculate grounds with ocean front lava gardens and the nightly visits from the Manta Rays. The staff was friendly and helpful. One local favorite restaurant is Jackie Rey’s O’Hana Grill, located on Kuakini Hwy, across from Walua Road. Their unique and locally grown food with a colorful & friendly atmosphere, reasonable prices, open air seating and a good wine list is a must do on my list. The Molokai purple sweet potatoes and organic turnips, fresh Mahi Ahi, Organic Chicken and leafy greens made my day. Another local restaurant, Jameson’s By the Sea offers fabulous sunsets but so-so food. They aim to please but Jackie Rey’s is so much better. However, the only view is the beautiful Frangipani trees that ladies pluck the fragrant blossoms for their hair before entering the restaurant.

For casual dining and picnic foods that are healthy, the Island Natural Foods store on Kawai Ave offers a fabulous salad bar, fresh fish and vegetarian entrees too. I was amazed at the selection here in Kona. If you are diving out of Kona, the store makes terrific food for lunches or the Manta-Night Dives. Sure beats the sub sandwiches or the local spam, rice , french fries and gravy dishes popular with the locals.

Moving up the coast to the tourist area, Waikoaloa Beach area offers everything from a family-filled theme park adventure stay at the Hilton, to a moderate resort at the Marriott, to Luxury at the Four Seasons, Mauna Lani Bay and Mauna Kea Resorts. Staying frugal and wanting a blend of comfort too, I opted for the Marriott, oceanfront for an amazing 185.00 per night as tourism was off this week. Their restaurants were just ok but they did offer brown rice instead of french fries with my fish . The fresh fruit juices were good (passion fruit is my favorite thirst quencher) and being active, we chose to eat lightly and picnic style most of the week. Bring your snorkel gear here (Ocean Sports on site also offered 4 hours free daily for mask, snorkel & fins) to go early in the AM to swim the local green turtles in the sanctuary… the reef is good but the visibility is best in the AM. The Marriott has their own sandy beach and great sunset viewing in a casual atmosphere. You will use your own gear if you have a car to hit all the cool snorkel spots in on some of the best beaches right off route #19.

The Queens Market convenience store less than a mile away offered fresh meats, sushi, soups, goat & sheep cheese, fruits, herbs & veggies, and even wheat-free crackers for me… this market although pricey was a blessing. Most mornings we ate fresh fruit and Greens+ bars, local macadamia nuts, Guayaki Yerba Mate & Itoen Green teas (available from Kona Natural Foods, Island Natural Foods (in Kona) Healthway II (in Waimea) and Abundant Life (in Hilo) and the new Vitamin Shoppe in Kona ...I like to eat lightly before diving.

The Kohala Divers in Kawaihae harbor (only a 15 min drive) were an amazing dive shop that welcome both divers & snorkelers. They do not touch critters and are environmentally and ecologically sound. They also spoil you with impeccable service and offer a friendly, knowledgeable crew. I will definitely go back…www.kohaladivers.com/808 -882-7774. My favorite spot for morning dives was off of Puako beach… a turtle cleaning station and home to a couple of white tipped reef sharks, 100 ft visibility and schools of colorful fish, healthy hard corals made for interesting and easy diving. They did not offer access to the world famous manta ray dive so I went into Kona and booked with Kona Honu Divers 808-324-4668. www.konahonudivers.com. Their large boat, friendly crew and the incredible 10 mantas that showed up made this a favorite dive. A must do.

For those non-divers or divers who don’t carry underwater cameras with them… who may want fabulous photographs of the turtles, rays or other creatures, contact Stephen Eitel at 808-895-0877 www.diveeitel.com. He is a friendly, educated and talented 20 year Hawaii resident, a renowned ocean photographer who will sell his photos out of his home (I bought his turtles & rays) . You can also contract him for a dive or snorkel for personalized underwater photos. For readers interested in healthy reef maintenance you may want to check out www.reefcheckhawaii.org or call 808-953-4044.

Sightseeing on the northwest coast offers the most beautiful beach of Hapaku & Puako, Mauna Kea and Spencer… or for hiking the trails and national parks in north Kohala… it is worth some exploration. The towns of Hawi and Kapaau offer a respite from tourism . They are quaint, artistic, folksy and offer healthy fresh food. The casual Bamboo Restaurant (votes one of the best on the island) was fantastic with fresh fish & greens and a guava & passion fruit on ice slushie … their were many choices on their menu I could eat plus a gift shop with local talented artistic wares is a fun place to browse around.www.bamboorestaurant.info The Coffee place across the street Kohala Coffee offered so much more than the local coffee… I would have gone back another day to eat here too… green tea, healthy food options like fish & sweet potatoes, homemade soups & fabulous ice cream in a more casual setting. A dessert place with a few sandwiches, Short & Sweet bakery even offered flour less chocolate cake. Hawi( pronounced havee ) is about 20 minutes north of Kohala divers making for good afternoon of food and exploration.

A Couple of miles north of Hawi , is the small town of Kapaau where we stumbled on King Kamehameha day -June 11th. The Snack Shack (formerly Kohala Rainbow Cafe) 808-889-0099 is located across from the Kamehameha statue; offers sandwiches, salads, brick oven small pizzas & desserts that are all fructose free… they only use natural cane sugar and Alyssa Slaven, the owner is open to exploring some gluten free menu items too. Please let her know you are interested.

Next store, owned by the same family for over 30 years is an amazing art gallery …Ackerman’s gallery that features local artisan wares. I was able to replace my Dichronic glass pendants (when my backpack was stolen in Italy) with new ones here for less money and I met the artist, Brian Dugan who is Ayssa’s sister next store….small town . Exploring the beaches off road with a 4WD jeep was also fun.

My sister Hove from Easton , CT who joined me on this trip is a master gardener and her goal was to see the Botanical gardens. There are several. The newer World Botanical Gardens included the Umauma waterfalls in their $13.00 ticket price and we spent almost 3 hours there hiking around…Their master gardener Brian may be out and about too…what a pleasure to meet such a vibrant young man who loves the environment. 808-963-5427. The original Tropical Botanical Gardens located off the 4 mile scenic road outside Hilo (not to be missed by every guidebook & they are right) the dept of agriculture to enter the US . I bought a red plumeria to try out… Ticket price here is 15.00 pp. Bring your bug repellent for all the gardens and hiking around the Hilo side. The Jason ” Quit Bugging Me “ spray and a few extra drops of the Aura Cacia geranium essential oil mixed with my ASAP Gel ( American Biotech ) did the trick . The popular What’s Shakin’ on this road offers good smoothies and great service but their sandwiches could be better-the local Mahi was deep fried and had a batter coating – not good for me and bland. Another smaller, simple take out shop (I didn’t write down the name but going North on the left hand side) with local honey & fruits offered a better menu they offered a good rice bowl with veggies and protein of your choice, plus homemade macadamia nut ice cream .

I didn’t have the time to go horseback riding in Waipi’o Valley where the best views are, so I opted for a sunset ride with Paniolo Adventures that I heard was good from other divers. We ended up with no sunset due to rain but the experience was still worth it… to ride across a wide open range with hundreds of grass fed cattle, I felt like I was in a John Wayne western film. The lady wranglers let you trot and canter and my high spirited horse needed no urging. Herds of baby wild pigs, the constant moos of the cattle grazing and following you and the mystique of the misty dusk were different than any other ride I have experienced. www..panioloadventures.com/ 808-889-5354

The town of Waimea, a naturally-oriented place had a terrific reasonably priced restaurant called Charlie’s Thai. Offered great summer rolls, soups, green tea and brown rice, fish and stir fries. Check it out 808-885-5591. The natural food store there Healthyways II in the Parker ranch shopping center across the street has wonderful smoothies and great takeout healthy food choices too. They will customize any menu item for you. Sheila runs a wonderful nutrition dept for all your supplement needs. 808-885-6775. Merriman’s is also another interesting restaurant option here with good salads and passion fruit lemonade.

To finish off the trip , my other sister Sara gave Hove & I a birthday present (as we are both 50 + now) of a helicopter ride with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters and did the 2 hour spectacular with a comfortable craft and an educated pilot. The tour was terrific but we did not buy the DVD as it recorded all conversation and the people in the front seats… did not work for us. I just liked the scenery-the waterfalls and northern coastline were magnificent and the lava flow was interesting… the best part was the new land mass evolving when the lava hit the ocean. A truly unique perspective than just being underwater or on land . The Eco Star, more expensive offered us better & individual seating and viewing than the A Star and the pilot was quite conservative, it was easy to take photos. Be sure to watch the time you select if you are diving or hiking in the Volcano park -they want you to allow 24 hours to decompress . call 800-786-2583 for reservation . Extra charges for persons over 250 lbs.

Not enough time to do as much as I wanted and certainly not much time to relax. Had a fabulous time …worked with the natural food stores and met many great folks. Would love to come back and do more… The only negative thing happened as we were leaving ….someone at TSA stole my large Princeton Tec dive light and left the clips that attach to my BCD… probably needed for the Manta Ray night dive. So my advice for any diver with camera equipment or lights… you may want to store them in your carry on baggage .

Remember to use a natural oil-free sunscreen like ZIA SPF 15 or 30 to protect both you and the reef (oil based products are damaging reefs). Bring a skin, even for snorkeling so you don’t get burned because there is so much to see, you won’t want to get out of the water once you are in. In June the water was 77-79 degrees so I was very comfortable in my 3/5 wetsuit w/ a hooded vest for multiple dives.

So as natives say… Mahalo (thank you) to the wonderful people who work so hard to keep this Island a paradise & Aloha (hello / goodbye) until next time. Facebook has some photos posted now…

In Continued health,

Sally Byrd

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May

Ahhhh…..Italy

sally on May 7th, 2011

Saturday, May 23rd, 2009

The Women of Gragnano Italy & children !

I finally had the opportunity to visit Italy. I owe it all to my Aunt Dee (my deceased dad’s older sister) and her husband, Uncle Dick wanting me and their daughter Karen to finally meet our cousins in Gragnano, Italy, a suburb of Naples (Napoli). My great grandfathers who did not know each other at the time they came over to America Gabriel Malafronte ( went to New York and was in the restaurant business ) and Domenic Mercurio( produce guy ) came to the US in 1898 . Domenic Mercurio started selling fruit & vegetables door to door and eventually opened an authentic thriving Italian grocery store, Mercurio’s in Fairfield , CT (closed in 2005 after 100 years) .I grew up in this store and never shopped a traditional supermarket until I was 18 and in college.

Meeting my cousins was fascinating and they are all wonderful . Aunt Dee speaks excellent Italian( she takes lessons and is more disciplined than I ) , I do not as my grandmother used to tell us …they lived in America and should only speak English now…. I never learned and now I am trying to learn Spanish for my job .

Gragnano is a small working class suburb of Naples that was known for its pasta – originally had 2,000 pasta manufacturers now it it is down to 200 . Gragnano is about an hour north of the Amalfi coast and the sophisticated charming towns of Positano & Sorrento . Ferries to Capri depart daily from Naples but due to inclement weather we were unable to visit this trip.

Everyone has their own vision of Italy whether they have been there or not …..the land of romance, fabulous food & wine, historical, ancient secrets still waiting to be discovered, home of Ducatis and Ferrais , high fashion and now the slow food movement. I love the discovery and adventure of getting to know the locals and their culture and italy did not disappoint me .

My travel challenges, however, included the national obsession with cigarette & cigar smoking and the questionable sanitation of the bathrooms. Just spending a couple of days in Rome and my eyes were already burning and hurting. I ‘ll bet the US tobacco industry is still making their profits here. I used the American BioTech Silverbiotics spray and gel to keep the irritation and swelling down . Thank goodness I also had all of my supplements , they really helped. Couldn’t have made it without my Deflect for O blood types from North American Pharmacal …..and my Greens + & Sun Chlorella.

What I want to know is , how do the motorcycle riders keep a lit cigarette in their mouth while maneuvering their speedy vehicles through traffic . Amazing skills they have .

The bathrooms , which on top of fees ranging from .5 to 1.00 Euro were always a surprise. Hole in the ground or toilette? Seat or no seat ?…were you going to get paper? Did they flush ? We used the great outdoors several times and it was more sanitary than most public toilets. Other than that we were comfortable with Italy and its customs, many familiar to me with my Italian upbringing.

Rome was a typical city full of adventure and Gelato waiting for you on every block . I had only experienced Gelato at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas and it was nothing like this. I am not a fan of ice cream and usually opt for sorbet because I am lactose intolerant to cow’s milk. . However, I became a Gelato convert( no milky aftertaste, does not make you thirsty , no indigestion or bloating and a small cup satisfies you ) ……even a snob by the end of my trip . In Italy , Gelato is considered a snack , not a desert . Much better than a candy bar over here.

My friend Stacey Stilts from West Hollywood, CA joined me for the final week of my trip and she loves Gelato , usually buying it from her local Whole Foods store. The best types are made several times daily in small batches, served in stainless steel metal tub with natural ingredients no artificial anything- right up my alley!

Our #1 favorite place was in Rome ( Roma ) . Gelateria Die Teatro , at 70 Via di San Simone Street a small cobblestone side street near some antique stores just a few blocks down after crossing the Tiber River from Caste De Angelo and walking about 10 minutes. My ginger Gelato with chunks of ginger and Stacey’s fig & Ricotta cheese were the best of all we had. Wished we could have gone back for more . #2 winner was Gelateria Torterzo Coccatero / Furoi dal Centro in Borgo a Mozono , just north of Lucca about 25 miles with hazelnut-Nicola ,Pischaccio, Raspberry & Mango …a real surprise on the main road leading to Bagni de Lucca on the right . They also make the most incredible Gelato pastries and cakes .wwwbernorddiniluca@yahoo.it #3 for organic and dark chocolate with cocoa nibs was GROM in Florence, Oche 24a ..(.the Strawberry ( fragiloa ) was good too) . A new restaurant in Lucca( opened in MAY ) , Grano Salis , we could have been dining in LA with the decor ……their house specialty was Cinnamon ( canella )and it was sooo creamy, not sweet & absolutely awesome . Do not however get their Tiramiso , very disappointing .Other flavors that we loved from other establishments were pear, passion fruit, tiramiso and crema . The chestnut was bland and Tuscany chianti was ok ,the cherry was too sweet.

Eating was a challenge since I do not consume wheat or pork products -I cheated once and paid dearly for it with an anchovy & zucchini flower pizza and a few slices of salami . So what do you eat when you aren’t eating the 5 p’s in Italy – pizza, pasta, panni, proscuitto & pastries? A lot of cheese! Thank goodness for sheep cheese..and many different types… …it agreed with me -no bloating or sinus problems .. I stay away from cow except for mozzarella.

The bohemian suburb of Rome , per Rick Steve’s Italy 2009 book www.ricksteves.com…..saved us here. Trastevere had wonderful restaurants that were better priced and offered more varieties of vegetables, fish and meats than some of the others I had experienced in other parts of Rome & Lucca.

Our favorite here which we frequented twice was Ai Fienaroli , a couple of blocks south of the main square and not as touristy . www.aifienaroli. See if Gizamo is working…she only works part time for tips because she loves the cooking of Chef Stefano . They have the best mussels & clams ,vegetables ( like chicory & artichokes)lean fresh meats and fish dishes and are well known for their Tiramiso . The best wine bar was ChaKra with owner Ricardo who told us about Ai Fienardoli and helped us understand the social life of the local Romans……get the Valpolicello for only 22Euro……tastes like the Amarone for 55.00 …..both from the Veneto region.

While we were in the Lucca area we rented a Villa for the week from a sharp business women -Alexandra Galvani who recently purchased Burgo Giusto and is turning this restored 17th century village into a wellness center. We loved it here and our villa , the former postman’s house was ours & we had a full kitchen . A bit romantic , and decorated with roses herbs gardens, olive groves and an abundance of birds; is located 23 miles north of Lucca in a very small village Partigliano . A running joke around here is if you enter one of the bars ( very different from the US ) you may as well be going into a retirement home , a little challenging for us single women .

We frequented the local markets for produce & fish and also a grocery chain, Esselunga ….which offered the best take away gourmet foods- sheep cheeses, meats ( beef , shrimp ) and incredible prices on produce & wine. Local food in season included our favorite of artichokes- Carciofi , zucchini & flowers, green beans , mussels ( Cozze), eggplant ,rainbow trout and blueberries. We ate well. Breakfasts of organic eggs, herbs,meats and veggies with our Yerba mate & green teas were lifesavers. I was in egg withdrawal since Gragnano & Rome did not serve eggs for breakfast – mostly pork based meats, pastries , breads, rolls & croissants and Capucino . I lived on Yerbe Mate te , Greens+ bars & almonds for breakfast the first week that I brought from the US. From then on we ate meals like picnics……and maintained our weight with better foods and smaller, more frequent meals.

Our favorite day of all was in Cinque Terre . A group of 5 small towns tucked into the cliffs north of Tuscany past Carrara ( the marble mines) and La Spezia ( off A -12) . We only had the chance to hike the first 3 towns and and back …..and want to return. There are trails at several altitudes, small charming villages , good food & wines….and really nice people) . This area is a mad house in the summer but May & Sept are terrific lower key months with great weather . The town practically shut down during the winter months in Dec ember& January . We ate in the small delis & Trattoria’s that offered cheeses, anchovies,tomatoes,artichokes ,eggplant & olives …with slices of Cecina from the pizzeria’s (completely wheat free lentil flour slices that the Italians eat it plain with salt but I added my picnic treat on top )and hung out at our favorite wine bar -(Enoteca) in Corniglia ….Il Purin.Mario ,Mario owns local vineyards, has his own wine label and will allow you to consume your lunch in his shop with a purchase when the other restaurants are all closed. A truly delightful place. Most of the restaurants close from 2:30-7:30 so you are very limited on food choices except for the smaller deli’s and pizzeria’s.

Other Lucca area highlights:

Horseback Riding : Ranch Il Ruscello / Bagni Di Lucca 347-688-8661 Rosi , a Dutch native, is the best ! Western saddle, speaks English ,25.00Euro per hour ( includes natioanl license ) and also offers 3 day overnight trips and riding lessons.

Terme /Hot Springs : Jean Varraud , Bagni Di Lucca.www.termebagnidilucca.it A medical spa type of place ….the caves offer a natural steam sauna( dating back to the time of Napolean’s sister -Paulina ) and the mud treatments and massages are a respite from all the hiking around. Not fancy , just effective. Closed Friday afternoons.

Lucca Winery & Olive Oil : Fattoria Sardi Giustiniani offered wine & olive oil tastings by Elena , a native from Lucca who for 25.00 Euro pp is a great deal . Truly off the beaten track and not touristy like some in the southern Tuscany areas…..no tour buses here. ..get a local directory of the 30 local farms & wineries in this region. The 2005 Merlot is truly one of the best reds you will ever consume( next to the Veneto regions of reds) I am not a Chianti fan . The best white is blend is a 2007 Felice. The olive oil has a peppery finish and only 300 bottles are produced per year . Apts are also available for rent . You are just 10 minutes south of Lucca and close to the Auto strada for convenience to Florence but in another quiet peaceful world .

Umbria/ Assisi . I did not get but less than 24 hours in this beautiful town and could have easily spent a week here….this was my favorite Artist : I wish I had room to buy some plates and vases from this talented artist -Pittura su Tei at Assisi Typical wwwassisitypicalaltervista.org. She makes the most unusual bracelets from forks & raw gemstones and her painted plates were the most beautiful anywhere.

Must have’s for healthy travel :

Travel mug for your tea unless you don’t mind 4 oz china tea cups…tea bags…..herbal teas are limited here however you can buy Green ,chamomile,rose hips and lemon verbena….bring extra kleenex or TP-for roadside stops! ,a shaker cup , Ipod or mp3 player for music if you stay in the country as it is very quiet ……Band-aids and an ace bandage for hiking….several pairs of sneakers/sandals to rotate your shoes in case of blisters…. a headlamp flashlight for hiking around unlit areas or to use as a reading light …Natural Air Fresheners for mold control – North American herb & Spice Germ-a Cleanze...and Mia Rose Air therapy work the best and your supplements. I really needed the Liverclean city pollution) ,Thyroid Balance ( weight,brain & hormones) Sugar Balance ( after Gelato’s& wine ) and the Anti-Aging 3 Collagen( skin, joints& immune) from Dr Venessa, chlorella & spirulina or your favorite green drink ….L- Glutamine, Taurine, Tryptophan , MSM & Turmeric ( Jarrow brand is best here….for any inflammation) Melatonin, B’s ,& C and EFA’s … good quality skin care serums , creams & masks ….Italy is VERY dry

Bring ….a sense of humor ….a lot of time ( Nothing in Italy moves quickly except for cars and motorcycles) and PATIENCE .

I will definitely be back to explore my other roots in Sicily and keep in touch with my Cousins, visit Capri , and head back to Cinque Terre…..

In Continued health and happy traveling …..there are 3 photo albums up on Facebook now.

Sally Byrd

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May

Nicaragua Escape … Safe, Economical and Fun

sally on May 7th, 2011

Saturday, April 4th, 2009

When I mentioned to my friends & family that I was headed to Nicaragua for a much needed break, they all wanted to know if it was safe, even though I was traveling with two of my dear friends, Sue Bennett and Mary Kennedy – we were celebrating a 25 friendship and the need to escape our hectic work schedules.

Our goal: An inexpensive get-away without the a lot of glitz and people that included nature/eco-tourism and diving and snorkeling. All of us are Hunter genotypes, O positive “strong American women” as we were nicknamed here…I first heard about Little Corn Island in my undercurrent newsletter: www.undercurrent.org – written for serious divers about 4 years ago and was so happy that I was finally able to make this trip with two adventurous friends.

A quick trip through Miami on American Airlines to Managua was delightfully uneventful. Mary’s luggage was delayed a few hours but made it safely before the early morning flight. Managua, Nicaragua is the largest and worst city to be stuck in so we stayed at the Best Western directly across the street. They advertise hot water but it is lukewarm to cool … rooms are like cabins and the restaurant serves good food; there is a pool. Internet is free, rates run about $95.00 per night. The other recommended hotel is only 5 minutes away – The Camino Real for about $15.00 more per night.

An early am flight took us to the airport around 5:30 am to continue our journey across the country to the Caribbean coast . This was the pricy part of the trip for me as the $1.20 per pound ran me up $91.00 plus a $2.00 tax on the domestic airline La Costena – regular baseline RT airfare runs $165.00. Both Mary and Sue paid under $20.00 extra (I like to travel with my own dive gear).

The planes are old, but safe as long as you don’t dwell on the few places where there was some duct tape. When we landed on Big Corn Island we were met by Elvis, a taxi driver for Casa Iguana, 848-4875, that ran us $2.00 each . The ferry ride to Little Corn ($6.00 US and about 40 min) was better than most theme park roller coasters and the previous week’s winds were calming down. Only 1 -15 foot drop, the other 4-6 ft drops were common and fun. Still for those who get sea-sick, you would want to wait for calmer weather.

Little Corn Island, a humble speck of land less than 3 miles long, East of Big Corn, is surrounded on 3 sides by coral reef’s. This island takes you back 60 years to Old Caribbean living. There are no roads – only a 3 ft wide concrete sidewalk that meanders through the town . The town generators struggle to keep up with electrical needs so sometimes you can’t have dinner at your favorite spot unless they have a back up generator or a grill.

The friendly people greet you with smiles and many of them speak English. Coconut bread is the mainstay starch here and you will be approached several times daily by children peddling this and other baked delicacies. The restaurants are excellent and not everything is fried like most Caribbean islands. From the incredible Mahi Fish Soup and citrus shrimp at SOLE, to tender beef with cilantro sauce at the Cuban place – HABANA LIBRE, to Fantastic Chicken curry at LOS DELPHINES, best creole fish at BRIDGETES, local island fare at Elsa’s and her her sons place, up the path on the West side … If you love Pizza … Mangoes is great but no spelt crusts(although the dough is made from scratch) yet for me, and of course the simple elegance of gourmet meals at the Casa Iguana Lodge, we did not have one bad meal. All of the seafood is of course caught within minutes of your meal – the service is VERY slow so order and take a walk, bring books or converse with some fun people. It may take up to an hour to be served. The locals are proud of their food and their island and the attitude radiates in everything they do. Most dinners ranged from $12.00 – $20.00 including a glass of wine, water or beer.

Since we were diving , we stayed at the Casa Iguana Eco-Lodge on the east breezy side of the Island that has the same owner as Dive Little Corn. Two years ago, this resort sold to a sharp Chicago business women Mary and she is getting ready for expansion as Little Corn is being discovered and bookings increase. She has hired a wonderful environmental engineer, Tim who resides in Idaho to improve the resort.

Tim made our stay comfortable, although there is NO hot water for showers anywhere on the Island, Tim made sure that sure that Sue and I had a thermos of hot water for tea every morning. We introduced him to Guayaki Mate, Traditional Medicinals Ginger Aid and Numi Jasmine Green and Rooibus tea. Mary looked forward to her Organic Nicaragua coffee. Mary, the Casa Iguana owner, also owns a premium line of fair trade organic foods called Sol Simple (www.sol-simple.com) with her brother who lives in Managua, makes preserves from passion fruit, orange, and hibiscus flowers, dried mango, pineapple and banana, cashews and coffee. All organic, all grown in Nicaragua to help the farmers expand fair trade practice. They have a few accounts in the US and are hoping to expand.

Casa Iguana’s simple huts had comfortable beds and a futons in the larger Casitas with hammocks to spend a few hours reading in the afternoon. The mile long beach was safe for snorkeling and about 10-15 minutes out was a reef teaming with sea life (lots of eagle rays) and healthy coral. Rooms run $65 – $85.00 depending on the size of the cabin. Prices for meals are $6.00 breakfast, $7.00 lunch, and $16.00 dinners. Wines from Argentina are only $4.00 per glass and beer is $1.60 – $1.80. A small bar and dining room makes this lodge a central part of island entertaining.

Because we were on the breezy part of the Island away from town, there were no bugs. but you may need the provided mosquito netting during the hotter, calmer summer months. There were community and private showers and bathrooms. We actually had toilet seats – not all accommodations provide them and I ended up getting used to the water. I was also thankful to see them use eco friendly soap like Wonder Wash from All Terrain a popular environmental line of bug repellents, sunscreen and washes operated by the Kulow family in NH which also imports the Borlind of Germany products, an upscale environmental friendly skincare line. For more info or to book a room : wwww.casaiguana.net.

Another unexpected surprise were the fireflies and the massive galaxy of bright twinkling stars every evening. We loved every minute of it.

For scuba divers, there are 2 dive shops Dive Little Corn www.divelittlecorn.com and Dolphin Dive www.dolphindivelittlecorn.com. Diving prices are very reasonable – 2 dives for $65.00 and $75.oo for night dives. Packages of 10 bring it down to $60 per 2 tank dive. Snorkelers are invited out on the afternoon dives that frequent shallower waters for $15.00.

I dove primarily with Dive Little Corn and loved the experience. I just needed more dives and wished I could have stayed longer. My dive masters Linnea (from Sweden) and John (Chicago transplant) were very good about safety, pre-dive conditions and briefings. The dives were easy and fun, not many big fish except at Blowing rock which is more pricey – a 17 mile away dive that takes all day. My favorite local dive site was White Holes which offered both snorkelers and divers an opportunity to swim with nurse sharks, eagle rays, and schools of blue tang among picture perfect Elkhorn coral. There are now 2 boats, no rinse tanks and they do carry DAN safety emergency kits. I did learn to feel better about cavern and ledge diving as we had several of these. The water was a beautiful 81 degrees. Mary and I were the only ones with full wetsuits which I would advise for protection. I wore a skin for snorkeling as there were a few small jellyfish. The current was mild, with a few swells on the east side.

Due to a funeral which closed down Dive Little Corn for 2 days – I took a day and dove with Dolphin Dive. These Europeans offer good diving too, but the boats was so crowded that I did not feel safe. On the second dive John and some students also came on the boat and they helped me with gear issues and getting on and off the boat was challenging. A newer more spacious boat would make a big difference here.

While I was diving one day – Mary and Sue went horseback riding with Bing Crosby (his real name) for 2 hours, only $25.00 which included riding on the beach and through the woods and orange groves. Bookings through the Peace & Love Farm on the NE part of the Island. They need 24 hours notice and the riding starts at 10:00 am .www.farmpeacelove@hotmail.com or have someone radio them. It is about a 45 minute walk to get there from town. They also have a room to rent and provide a genuine 3 course Italian dinner for those who will venture out there during the night .

Other activities include fishing trips, swimming, volleyball, playing pool, hiking around the island, hanging out with the locals, reading or just relaxing in a hammock somewhere. Be sure to book your trip soon as the word gets out this sleepy little island is already on the drawing board for land developers. We met people from all over the world and group of grad students from the DC area. I think we were the oldest tourists there!

We needed more time and will just have to go back. We flew back after only 6 days to Managua and hopped a cab to Granada, the 4th largest city and the prettiest and oldest mainland settlement that sits on the edge of Lake Nicaragua, only a 1 hour drive from Managua. Our destination was a small intimate hotel with 13 rooms - Casa San Francisco run by a hard working expat, Nancy a former United Airlines employee who believes a good bed is key to a great night’s sleep .www.casasanfrancisco.com to reserve rooms from $55 – $75 per night and includes a hot breakfast in a courtyard filled with flowers and birds and free Internet. We were also delighted with the hot showers and homemade soaps her professional and friendly staff made our trip perfect – Maria Lourdes – she knows everything! And there is Pena, Carlos, Franklin & Giovanni …

The dinners were elegant and filling and the we liked the location of this hotel as it was a 5 minute walk from the town square – Central Park and all vendors and celebrations … in a safe quiet neighborhood. This town is being restored and several other places also looked nice. Another elegant hotel is La Gran Francia - www.lagranfrancia.com

Nicaragua is the home to 54 volcanoes. We only had time to visit one – Mombacho an inactive one that encompasses a coffee farm and a zip line high up in a cloud forest. There are many different Eco-tours places all over Granada – Giovanni was our guide who spoke excellent English and provided us with a memorable day for $30.00 pp. If we had another day we would have gone to Masaya, the town that houses the active volcano -it is visible from Mombacho. Another few hours roaming about the streets, churches, convents and art museums provided us with a good feel for the town . The artisans in Central Park offered reasonably priced jewelry, pottery, clothing and food items. Only a few beggars. They even had a small chocolate shop – Momotombo Artisian chocolates infused with local fruits, nuts and coffee that were irresistible.

Wanting more exercise we headed out for a 3 hour kayaking tour amongst the 365 islands in the lake – created by volcanic eruptions years ago. Of course that would take days but our short trip proved to be great exercise and informative. Our guide Alberto Mario Romano,a 22 year old with beautiful English speaking skills, works with Inuit Kayak company ($35.00 pp including transportation.) The birds and the flowers were beautiful and Alberto is also a poet and teaches children English in his spare time. His dream is to have a large whiteboard, pens and paper for his students. I would like to help him reach his goal. Casa San Francisco also owns several small cottages on the lake if you want to be directly on the water and want to hike, bird watch or swim. www.sansimian.com 505-813-6866.

One afternoon Sue & I pampered ourselves by getting a massage, an acupuncture treatment and a pedicure at the Alma Zen massage place down across from the bus station – a rougher area but very peaceful inside. www.almazennicaragua.com/825-9094. A simple place that offered great rates and could take with just a quick call from Maria Lourdes at our hotel. Paula, a competent business women runs the place and Claudia and Lydia our therapists were awesome; they are skilled, attentive women with big hearts. Another Spa – Pure Vida was more upscale and was completely booked. The fitness center is free when you stay at the Casa San Fransisco. I had no idea that the Mayan Indian Indian culture was using acupuncture. It is still common in Nicaragua and Claudia inserted the needles with better proficiency than most therapist here in the US for only $10.00 and you get to keep your needles! We also received a discount since there were two of us.

Totally relaxed, we walked around town the rest of the day. Leaving Nicaragua was difficult for us. The people, the landscape, the activities and simple affordable fun was such a treat! The water was safe to drink – I did bring my Cell Food drops, North American Herb & Spice, Wild Oregano, Silver Biotics gel & spray, Tea Tree Therapy oils and Dr. Venessa’s Liverclean & Digestion just in case. We always travel with all of our supplements and have never had any illness or stomach upsets in my last 30 years of road travel. Nutritional supplements were lacking in the stores but the food supply was so fresh. Protein bars and snacks did come in handy (bring some with you) for hiking but the fresh fruit smoothies were awesome.

The men -waiter and bartender at Casa San Francisco seemed to love the Aura Cacia Geranium oil that I wore mixed with lavender for a bug repellent. Some new American perfume, they all had to put it on …very cute… All 3 of us took our Dr. Venessa’s Anti-Aging 3 Collagen each evening to keep our immune system up, our joints limber and our aging bodies intact. We tried to represent America well. We respected their customs and mingled with the locals and thanked everyone we met. Even taking photos, the people were friendly and wanted me to spread the word that Nicaragua wants tourism. On a Friday night you may be able to catch a movie outside as the local were projecting American Movies on the side of an old building with sound! Better than a drive in and free!

Spanish schools are everywhere – for 4-5 hours a day and $140.00 for class and an additional $70.00 – $80.00 per week you can stay with a family and learn. I am contemplating going back. They do have cell phones, Internet and I need to learn Spanish . Can’t wait to return – I have 2 photo albums posted on Facebook.

In Continued Health,

Sally Byrd

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May

America’s Thyroid Epidemic

sally on May 7th, 2011

Thursday, February 26th, 2009

Unnecessary thyroid surgeries are on the rise nationwide rendering many people slaves to prescription medications for the rest of their lives. This small butterfly shaped gland at the base of your neck , controls more than just your weight and body temperature and is a very critical piece in the anti-aging puzzle of life.

As I was traveling through the Southeast this past month , I ran into a number of individuals who due to thyroid problems , had pending surgeries and prescription medication scripts waiting to be filled.

With the aging population growing , this thyroid challenge will escalate. While some people take the more natural form – Armour (from Pigs, about 40 % T-3 /60% T-4 ) many are still on the commonly prescribed Synthroid or Levothyroid ( T-4 production) and Cytomel ( produces T-3) .

Still, even on medications many people just don’t feel right and still maintain many of the symptoms.

My recent hormonal tests showed that I have the thyroid of a healthy 20 year old in a 50 year old body. My doctor wanted to know what I was taking. As a lover of sea vegetables, I have always consumed seaweed in the form of green superfoods – Like Greens + , Chlorella ( Sun Chlorella, New Chapter or Jarrow ) , Spirulina ( Nutrex ) and in Nori, Wakame, Dulse and Arame whenever I could . I also started taking the Tree of Life Thyroid product 8 years ago that I formulated as a preventative (not available now) and have worked with Dr. Venessa on a newer, higher potency formula to help the body cleanse, balance and maintain this important gland – Dr. Venessa’s Thyroid Balance. The abundance of bladderwrack, dulse, Vitamin D, Colleus forskohlli, rosemary , acetyl L-tyrosine, trace minerals and schizandra offer hormonal and parathyroid support for several areas: bone density , balanced body weight, emotional and memory health for the Hypo-type of thyroid imbalance (TYPE 2)

For people with years of chronic low thyroid , they may need additional homeopathic iodine drops to get their system back on track .Many alternative practitioners such as Johnathon Wright ( Townsend letter -April issue ) claim this is partly due to influx of flouride in our water supply , food supply and toothpaste. People with this condition should avoid hydrofluosilicic acid or sodium flouridas Dr Wright considers flouridation along with the prominant Albert SchartzPhDas the one largest health care frauds in our history . As a lifetime opponent to fluoridation myself ( and I am cavity free) I agree with this statement . check out www.fluoridealert.org for more info …………

For Hyperthyroid individuals, ( about 10% diagnosed & more difficult to treat ) please research the properties of bugleweed, lemon balm, motherwort, cat’s claw and royal jelly for your program. Also add 300-600mg of Alpha Lipoic Acid w /a good b-Complex for a couple fo months then try a maintenance dose of 100-300mg. Studies since 2002 show that 2,000 mg-4,000 of L-Carnitine acts as a buffer and can be benficial to both Hyper ( calming down ) and Hypo ( improve weight challenges) . Robert Crayhon, one of my favorite nutritionists , wrote the book -The Carnitine Miracle that covers a wide range of topics.

People with a hypo-thyroid need to be aware that too much Alpha Lipoic can slow the thyroid down more so keep the dose around at 100-200mg daily .

Cut Soy products out of the diet for all thyroid issues.Sometimes even the healthy cruciferous veggies ( broccoli ,cauliflower,cabbage & brussel sprouts) will slow the thyorid so choose the most beneficial by your blood or geno-type .

The closer to age 40 one is, the more you should start thinking about the nutrients that support this important gland. Even if you don’t have weight or energy issues, you need to take precautions for life long health. It is never too late to start.

What is the role of a thyroid in your body?

Very Important, as it in involved with the central nervous system communication and positive emotional health,it control’s one’s body temperature, bone density , cellular enzyme activity, tissue growth and repair, fat metabolism, it regulates carbohydrate absorption, improves balanced energy, healthy cholesterol, arteries, and triglyceride levels.

Thyroid tests are usually not complete (get at least 5 tests done not just the 2 covered by your insurance). Even if the doctor tells you that you are normal, you still need to start nutrient supplementation after 40. Men are only 5-7% of the population and women nearing 40 with peri-menopause are the hardest hit and can reach 26% of this age group .

As women age and estrogen reserves decline ,the thyroid will be compromised. With increases of synthetic estrogen this issue will get worse. Please ask your doctor about Bio-identical hormones based on plants, instead of animal urine and synthetics to help balance oyur body at this age.

Your thyroid health is critical to our bodies decreasing sex hormonal levels (after age 30) and for supportive communication to the Hypothalamus & Pituitary gland- the spark plugs of your brain. Be sure to also watch you insulin levels too as high levels of insulin can also slow down your thyroid activity.

So if you have any of these common symptoms, you may want to change your diet and start on some products that may help you through this transition – male or female.

Brittle nails….intolerance to cold…constipation…dry scaly or rough skin…enlarged goiter…fluid retention…heavy menstruation…headaches…high blood pressure…recurrent infections…joint pain…kidney problems…MS..Muscle aches…droopy or puffy eyelids….a bloated face…insomnia…thinning eyebrows…are just some of the symptoms . Do something about it now and don’t become a product of the latest surgery Du Jour !

and stop using flouridated products…….

In Continued health,

Sally Byrd

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