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Medicinal Mushrooms

This amazing food has shown powerful immune-boosting and anticancer activity--including blocking the formation of tumors.

Ronald Grisanti D.C., D.A.B.C.O., D.A.C.B.N., M.S.,CFMP

Medicinal Mushrooms

One food source that has been thoroughly researched in its role in immune stimulation and cancer are Medicinal Mushrooms. This amazing food has the ability to complement chemotherapy and radiation therapy by countering several of the side effects of these modalities, including nausea, bone marrow suppression, anemia, and lowered resistance. The following mushrooms have shown powerful immune-boosting and anticancer activity—including blocking the formation of tumors. These mushrooms contain polysaccharides, substances that increase immune defense by enhancing the function of macrophages and natural killer (NK) cells.

Turkey Tail

A seven-year clinical study funded by the National Institutes of Health and jointly conducted by the University of Minnesota and Bastyr University in Seattle found that freeze-dried turkey tail mushroom had a dramatic impact in boosting immune function for women with stages I, II, and III breast cancer and also contributed to tumor shrinkage."

Maitake

This mushroom, also 'known as hen of the wood' has been found to inhibit tumor growth in human clinical trials. It has also been found to increase the production of interleukins, neutrophils, T cells, and macrophages while decreasing side effects of chemotherapy.

Shiitake

A 2015 University of Florida study showed increased immunity in people who ate a cooked shiitake mushroom every day for four weeks." By comparing blood tests obtained both before and after the experiment, researchers saw better functioning immune cells and reductions in inflammatory proteins.

Reisshi  ("Mushroom of Immortality")

Reisshi  mushrooms contain beta glucans, a type of polysaccharide that has demonstrated antitumor and immunostimulating activity. Recent findings indicate that reishi mushrooms may increase NK cell cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines. They may also protect against radiation damage.

Lion's Mane

Lion's mane mushrooms have been demonstrated to stimulate NK and macrophage activity and also to inhibit angiogenesis (the development of new blood vessels), contributing to reduction of tumor size. It was also discovered that when the mushroom was combined with the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin, an otherwise drug-resistant human liver cancer became treatable.

Cordyceps

Evidence shows that cordyceps is an immune modulator with potentiating and suppressive effects on both innate and adaptive immunity. It enhances the activity of NK cells and has been found to initiate T cell responses against microbial pathogens and tumors."

Conclusion: As you can see from the above, Medicinal Mushrooms should be included in everyone's diet to enhance immune function and has promise in the management of cancer.

References:

Winters Nasha, Kelley Jess, The Metabolic Approach to Cancer, Chelsea Green Publishing, 2017

Seema Patel, Arun Goyal, Recent developments in mushrooms as anti-cancer therapeutics: a review, 3 Biotech. 2012 Mar; 2(1): 1–15.

Torkelson CJ, Sweet E, Martzen MR, Sasagawa M, Wenner CA, Gay J, Putiri A, Standish LJ., Phase 1 Clinical Trial of Trametes versicolor in Women with Breast Cancer.

Alena G. Guggenheim, Kirsten M. Wright, and Heather L. Zwickey, "Immune Modulation from Five Major Mushrooms: Application to Integrative Oncology" Integrative Medicine 13, no. 1 (February 2014): 32-44

Xiaoshuang Dai, Joy M. Stanilka, Cheryl A. Rowe, Elizabethe A. Esteves, Carmelo Nieves, Samuel J. Spaiser, Mary C. Christman, Bobbi Langlcamp-Henken, and Susan S. Percival, "Consuming Lentinula edodes (Shiitake) Mushrooms Daily Improves Human Immunity: A Randomized Dietary Intervention in Healthy Young Adults," Journal of the American College of Nutrition 34, no. 6 (2015): 478-87,

Patel and Goyal, "Recent Developments in Mushrooms as Anti-Cancer Therapeutics: A Review."

Bao-qin Lin and Shao-ping Li, "Cordyceps as an Herbal Drug," chap. 5 in Benzie and Wachtel-Galor, eds., Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects.

To find a healthcare professional certified in functional medicine, go to www.FunctionalMedicineDoctors.com. These are clinicians who have been trained at Functional Medicine University (www.FunctionalMedicineUniversity.com)

The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. It is intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from the research and experience of Dr. Grisanti and his functional medicine community. Dr. Grisanti encourages you to make your own health care decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care professional. Visit  www.FunctionalMedicineUniversity.com for more information on our training in functional medicine . Look for practitioners who have successfully completed the Functional Medicine University's Certification Program (CFMP)  www.functionalmedicinedoctors.com. This content may be copied in full, with copyright, contact, creation and information intact, without specific permission, when used only in a not-for-profit format. If any other use is desired, permission in writing from Dr. Grisanti is required.

There is a strong appeal in connecting with our ancient past, and that connection can be a major draw into the world of remedies. Knowing that countless generations have turned to the same healing properties is comforting, and even more so when we can connect it to Biblical times and “prescriptions,” for lack of a better term. When the Author of Life writes a prescription, you take it! With that said, there are conflicting opinions on the topic of essential healing oils of the Bible.

The bottom line for me is that God gave us these healing oils of the Bible for our use and benefit – as God’s Medicine. Let’s walk through the historical record and each oil itself to see how these essential healing oils of the Bible were used then and how that wisdom might benefit us now.

LET’S DEBUNK A COMMON MYTH

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard people say, “If it’s good enough for Baby Jesus, then it’s good enough for me!”

Well, here’s the bottom line: Jesus didn’t use frankincense oil. Or any essential healing oil for that matter.

How can I be sure about this?

Because essential healing oils as we know the today didn’t exist!

Truth is, the magi gave the Christ child gold, frankincense, and myrrh resins.  Essential healing oils as we know them didn’t exist back then.  Simply put, the essential healing oils of the Bible that we all love and use today require highly advanced distillation techniques that weren’t yet invented.

HISTORICAL USE OF HEALING OILS

Essential healing oils of the Bible are a component of botanical matter, evident with a simple walk through of a fragrant garden. The aromatic properties escape a rose with the brush of a hand. So there’s little question why or how the ancients would have noticed this and utilized it in some form. Oils themselves are discussed in ancient literature dating back thousands of years, with Rome known for its baths, territories of Greece for their perfumes, and anointing oils mentioned in the Bible.

Largely, these were extracts, with many writings indicating the use of olive oil because of the many benefits, and pressing the oil out. There are indications of crude distillation methods, though, with discoveries of clay-made distillery equipment not unlike our own. (1) While these early distilled oils would have been closer to our modern hydrosols – steam distillation that creates an aromatic water – the idea of extracting, distilling, or otherwise capturing and using the fragrant component of a plant is of old.

MODERN USE OF BIBLICAL OILS

In more recent decades, the science of distilling essential oils of the Bible as pure, concentrated components has been honed. As researchers and chemists learned more about chemical composition in the early 1900s, they were able to perfect the ability to isolate these compounds and, later, analyze their exact composition to understand more about their specific benefits. Unfortunately, with that ability came the appeal of synthetics and attempts to mimic the art of harnessing nature from the predictable halls of a laboratory.

As the ancient practice of perfumery began to meld with the newly confirmed healing actions of aromatic oils, the temptation has been to synthesize the fragrance in an attempt to replicate the benefits. There is no replacement for creation, however. As we walk through the commonly cited oils of the Bible, we should remember to honor their intended purpose rather than trying to recreate them as we see fit.

BREAKING DOWN THE HEALING OILS OF THE BIBLE

You won’t find your favorite blend listed alongside your favorite verse, but there are plenty of botanicals and oils listed in the Bible. Twelve healing oils of the Bible in particular have been singled out as potential essential healing oils or aromatic extracts and can even be purchased as such today! Unfortunately, and unsurprisingly, common names of the time are used rather than scientific names. Some, like frankincense, you probably have on your shelf, while others you might not even know how to pronounce. So which are most likely to connect us to the past, and which are just a throwback tribute? Let’s look at each to find out.

1. ALOES

Wondering why the cactus-like plant is here? Merriam-Webster has a similar thought, by highlighting aloe first as the tropical plant with a healing gel. But then, the bigger picture emerges: plural : the fragrant wood of an East Indian tree (Aquilaria agallocha) of the mezereon family When the Bible refers to aloes, it’s the aromatic extract (or mash) of a tree’s heartwood, used for healing and especially embalming. Old English borrowed the word, then applied it to the spiky plant we know now. The Bible lists aloe(s) as:

  • A symbol of abundance and provision (Numbers 24:6)
  • A perfume (Psalm 45:8, Proverbs 7:17)
  • An incense (Song of Solomon 4:14)
  • Burial ointment for Christ (John 19:39)

While some claim that aloes or aloewood are the same as sandalwood, the direct connection – A. agallocha – has a powerful healing oil component itself. Used as an incense and cosmetic oil, aloewood (or eaglewood or agarwood) is known for its benefits as a stimulant and cardiac tonic and can even have some digestive wellness benefits, too! (2)

2. CASSIA

Unlike the herb senna, whose proper name begins with Cassia, the cassia of the Bible resembled our cinnamon more than anything. According to an etymology breakdown by BibleHub online, cassia is likely “the inner bark of Cinnamomum cassia, a plant growing in eastern Asia closely allied to that which yields the cinnamon of commerce. It is a fragrant, aromatic bark and was probably used in a powdered form.” (3) The Bible lists cassia as:

  • An anointing oil (Exodus 30:24)
  • A perfume (Psalm 45:8)
  • Precious commodities (Ezekiel 27:19)

Like cinnamon, Cinnamomum cassia is rich in cinnamaldehyde when derived from the bark. (4) If C. cassia is not available, cinnamon essential healing oil would be a fair switch.

3. CEDARWOOD

Mentioned most commonly as a burned wood for ceremonial purposes, cedarwood is associated with cleansing and purification. (5) These majestic, ancient trees – likely the cedar of Lebanon (C. libani) – are still around today, and are a source of antioxidant essential healing oil. According to an analysis of both C. libani and the more commonly used C. atlantica. The Bible lists cedarwood as:

  • A ceremonial tool for cleansing leprosy and (Leviticus 14, Numbers 19)
  • A perfume (Psalm 45:8)
  • A symbol of abundance and provision (Numbers 24:6, Psalm 92:12, Ezekiel 31:3)
  • A symbol of security and stability (Song of Solomon 1:17; 8:9; Zechariah 11:2)
  • The choice wood for building, trading and currency (referenced by several verses in 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles, Ezra 3, Jeremiah 22, Ezekiel 17)
  • Mentioned by Solomon in his proverbs and sacred writings (I Kings 4:34)

There are several uses of cedarwood oil. In the cleansing of the Leper… The oil extracted from the cedars of Lebanon was used to embalm the ancient Pharaohs of Egypt and modern scientists have demonstrated the antioxidant properties of the cedarwood oil. (6)

4. CYPRESS

Mostly mentioned as a companion to cedar, cypress is celebrated in the Scripture as a symbol of strength and security. One Bible dictionaries states this about Cypress (Hebrew word tirzah): “The Hebrew word is found only in (Isaiah 44:14) We are quite unable to assign any definite rendering to it. The true cypress is a native of the Taurus. The Hebrew word points to some tree with a hard grain, and this is all that can be positively said of it.” (7) Most modern Bible translations, however, lists cypress several times as:

  • The choice wood for building, trading and currency (referenced by several verses in 1 Kings, 2 Chronicles, Isaiah 41)
  • A fragrant hardwood and symbol of security & stability (Isaiah 44:14)
  • A symbol of prosperity (Isaiah 60:13, Hosea 14:8, Zechariah 11:2)
  • The choice wood for weaponry (Nahum 2:3)

Cypress is the chosen translation likely due to the Mediterranean cypress (Cupressus sempervirens), an evergreen from which we derive an essential healing oil. Known simply as cypress oil, it is comprised largely of pinene and limonene and is an effective antibacterial essential healing oil. (8) Whether this is the tree spoken of or anyone burned it for its fragrant release of oil remains to be seen.

5. FRANKINCENSE

If you know me at all, you know this is one of favorite oils because of all the research support its used as a natural healer. And if you know the Christmas story, you already know at least one place where frankincense is mentioned in the Bible. Elsewhere, in Exodus 30:34 and Revelation 18:13, frankincense is mentioned as part of incense for a priestly rite and as indication of wealth and prosperity in spice trade. The Bible lists frankincense as:

  • A part of ceremonial offerings (Referenced several times in Leviticus 2, 5, 6, 24; Numbers 5, 1 Chronicles 9, Nehemiah 13)
  • A holy ceremonial perfume (Exodus 30:34)
  • A perfume (Song of Solomon 3:6; 4:6)
  • A precious commodity – potential currency (Isaiah 60:6; Jeremiah 6:20; Revelations 18:13)
  • The gifts of the Magi to the Christ child (Mathew 2:11)

As a healing remedy, frankincense oil is not only antimicrobial but also an immunostimulant. (9) Could God have been protecting His priests (and Son!) through the use of frankincense?

6. GALBANUM

One of the more unfamiliar of the oils, galbanum was listed in the recipe for incense to be used in the heart of the temple. We don’t know the exact species referred to, but we know it was a gum that likely came from a plant in the Ferula family. (10) The Bible lists galbanum as:

  • A holy ceremonial perfume (Exodus 30:34)

Today, Ferula gummosa is collected and sold as galbanum. It has exhibited antimicrobial effects and potential for use in oral health. (11)

7. HYSSOP

The modern hyssopHyssopus officinalis, has been used for antifungal, antibacterial, larvicidal and insect biting deterrent activities. (12) However, according to the International Bible Encyclopedia, this hyssop is not native to the area of Palestine and is not likely to be the oil mentioned throughout the Bible for cleansing and rituals. (13) The Bible lists hyssop as:

  • A part of ritual cleansing and ceremonial offerings (Referenced several times in Exodus 12; Leviticus 14; Numbers 19; Psalm 51; Hebrews 9)
  • The sponge that soaked up the sour wine that was given to Jesus on the cross (John 19:29)
  • Mentioned by Solomon in his proverbs and sacred writings (I Kings 4:34)

While H. officinalis does seem to accomplish similar purposes, I personally find it more interesting that the strongest contenders for actual hyssop would be an even closer fit for such purposes: thyme and marjoram.

8. MYRRH

With well documented use throughout the ages, myrrh is easy to identify and enjoy. It by far, the most decorated oil in the Bible being listed as:

  • A precious commodity – potential currency (Genesis 37:25)
  • Anointing oil (Exodus 30:23)
  • An ointment (Song of Solomon 5:5)
  • A perfume (Psalm 45:8, Proverbs 7:17, Song of Solomon 1:13, 4:14, 5:13)
  • An incense (Song of Solomon 3:6, 4:6)
  • A with mixed edible spices to be eaten (Song of Solomon 5:1)
  • The gifts of the Magi to the Christ child (Mathew 2:11)
  • Mixed with wine and given to Jesus on the cross (Mark 15:23)
  • Burial preparations Nicodemus used for Jesus’ in the tomb (John 19:39)

Unlike other products from trees, it isn’t the wood that is used but the resin that comes from it. Once exposed to air, it hardens and can be powdered, used as-is, or now, distilled for a healing oil. Interestingly, myrrh and frankincense essential healing oils have a synergistic effect when combined, each improving the others’ antimicrobial benefits. (14)

9. MYRTLE

Myrtle isn’t mentioned frequently, but its presence indicates growth and abundance. It likely refers to the Myrtus communis plant, which is grown around Jerusalem to this day. (15) The Bible lists myrtle as:

  • The choice wood for building ceremonial booths (Nehemiah 8:15)
  • A symbol of provision (Isaiah 41:19; 55:13)
  • A symbol of protection (Zechariah 1:8, 10-11)

Myrtle is a low growing plant with flowers that produce an intense, lovely aroma. This is said to be the meaning of Esther’s Hebrew name – and she would have likely enjoyed her namesake as a perfume in the king’s palace! Today, the essential healing oil specifically has undergone a fair amount of research, revealing itself as antimicrobial and an antioxidant, among other benefits. (16)

10. ONYCHA

Perhaps the most obscure on the list, onycha was mentioned in the holy anointing oil “recipe” and nowhere else. While some sources claim onycha is the resin of the Styrax benzoin tree, there is little to substantiate the claim. The more commonly accepted view is that it refers to the shell of a mussel, which would have been scraped or powdered and burned. (17) Still others attribute it to balsam or laudanum, a fragrant flowering plant. (18) The Bible lists onycha as:

  • A holy ceremonial perfume (Exodus 30:34)

Both Styrax benzoin and Cistus labdanum are developed into essential healing oils now and can be added to blends and diffused. Neither have been researched thoroughly, though labdanum seems to have good antioxidant capabilities. (19)

11. ROSE OF SHARON

A rose may not simply be a rose in this case, as the Rose of Sharon is another disputed for its identity. Usually referred to in a metaphorical sense, it could actually refer to any flower that grows well in unfavorable circumstances. (20) It has been said that the “Rose of Sharon” first appeared in the 1611 King James Version of the Bible. The Bible lists Rose of Sharon as:

  • A reference to the “Beloved” (Song of Solomon 2:1)

Contenders include a crocus, tulip, or lily, while there are some who contend that it is the Rock Rose, Cistus ladanifer, which is very closely related to labdanum. Without a clear connection and no Biblical “recipe” to indicate ancient use, we are left to imagine the potential of this beautiful, fragrant life in the midst of harsh, thorny crags.

12. SPIKENARD

First introduced in the Old Testament, spikenard is probably most well known as one of the expensive perfumes that the woman anointed Jesus with in Bethany. Spikenard – Nardostachys jatamansi – was highly prized as a perfume and very precious. It’s still used in some beauty treatments to this day. (21) The Bible lists spikenard as:

  • A royal fragrant aroma A symbol (Song of Solomon 1:2)
  • A prized, desired plant (Song of Solomon 4:13-14)
  • An costly ointment/perfume used to anoint Christ (Mark 14:3; John 12:3)

Although there isn’t much available yet on the benefits of spikenard (beyond perfumery) as an essential healing oil, an isolated compound has shown promising effects as an anti-inflammatory. (22)

ANOINTING WITH HEALING OILS

“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.” (James 5:14)

While not all healing oils of the Bible are identifiable, available, or used now as they were then, the study of ancient botanical preparations is fascinating. When we see threads of benefit – antimicrobials as anointing or temple oils, for example, keeping the population healthy – we begin to deepen our understanding of creation and the order that God set into place. The anointing oil, for example, contains fragrant ingredients that would contain at least some of the volatile (essential) healing oils of the Bible no matter how it was produced. “Then the Lord said to Moses, “Take the following fine spices:

  • 500 shekels of liquid myrrh [about 6g]
  • Half as much of fragrant cinnamon [about 3g]
  • 250 shekels of fragrant calamus [about 3 g]
  • 500 shekels of cassia [about 6g]
  • And a hin of olive oil [about 5 quarts]

“Make these into a sacred anointing oil, a fragrant blend, the work of a perfumer. It will be the sacred anointing oil. Then use it to anoint the tent of meeting, the ark of the covenant law, the table and all its articles, the lampstand and its accessories, the altar of incense, the altar of burnt offering and all its utensils, and the basin with its stand. You shall consecrate them so they will be most holy, and whatever touches them will be holy.” (Exodus 30:22-29)

For your own fragrant, daily anointing oil, combine these essential healing oils of the Bible and carrier oil. The antimicrobial and immune effects, fragrance, and connection to sacred rituals of long ago make a perfect combination to carry you through your day healthy and at peace.

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or other liquid carrier)
  • 2 drops myrrh
  • 2 drops cinnamon (for the cinnamon and cassia)
  • 2 drops sweet orange (for the sweet reed calamus)
  • 1 drop frankincense (for good measure!)

Diffuse these healing oils of the Bible periodically or apply topically in sparing amounts when praying over people.

 

References:

file:///C:/Users/james/Downloads/my-top-20-infrared-sauna-tips.pdf

https://drhickswellness.com/wp-content/uploads/healthie.purity-woods-top-10-anti-aging-longevity-ingredients.pdf

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Because health means everything,

APPLIED KINESIOLOGY (AK) MUSCLE TESTING

Muscle testing is a bioenergetic assessment tool that many healing arts' practitioners use to determine the nature of imbalances and therapeutic priority. A comprehensive understanding of the art and skillful application of the technique is vital to consistent, accurate and replicable results. Muscle testing has been likened to a kind of body biofeedback used to evaluate changes in the body's subtle energy field and has been used for over 50 years by healing arts' practitioners in clinics throughout the world.

In the 1960s, the late, Dr. George Goodheart, utilized muscle testing as an energetic diagnostic tool to assess muscle, nerve and meridian energy connections. More than just an energetic diagnostic procedure, his discoveries led to the creation of a new system of healing that came to be known as Applied Kinesiology.

muscle-testing.jpgIn addition to assessing the strength of an individual muscle’s response, muscle testing can be used to assess the body's energetic response to specific stimuli. All types of stress (biochemical, electromagnetic, physical, emotional, and mental) impact the body's energy field(s) and subsequently register on the nervous system, creating a change in muscle response, which can be effectively monitored through a specific muscle testing/challenge technique.

Muscle testing has also proven to be an exceptionally helpful tool in the assessment of imbalances and evaluation of therapeutic options. It can help the practitioner to determine an individualized program tailored to the nutritional, homeopathic, botanical, etc, needs of the person. While this art and science requires a certain amount of physical skill both in application and interpretation, the real challenge is in the ability of the practitioner to work within the subtle areas of "inner communication". Confidence and clarity as well as accuracy and consistency come with practice and experience.

Today there are many expansions and differentiation of Applied Kinesiology (AK) including Bioenergetic Sensitivity & Enzyme Therapy (BioSet), BioEnergetic Synchronization Technique (BEST), Clinical Kinesiology (CK), Contact Reflex Analysis (CRA), Matrix Energetics (ME), Nambudripad's Allergy Elimination Technique (NAET), Jaffe-Mellor Technique (JMT), Neural Emotional Technique (NET), Body Talk, Total Body Modification (TBM). Omura O-Ring Test, Pulse Testing, Auricular Medicine and many others.

Foods to Heal Your Brain

By: Cat Ebeling, RN, MSN-PHN, co-author of the best-sellers:  The Fat Burning KitchenThe Top 101 Foods that Fight Aging & The Diabetes Fix

Alzheimer’s, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar, schizophrenia, behavioral problems, ADD/ADHD—the list goes on and on. Mental health issues are increasing by the day.

Pharmaceutical companies make massive amounts of money treating mental health, mood and behavioral disorders. In fact, Americans spend about $188 billion dollars a year on mental health treatments and medications. Of that, $71 billion is on depressive disorders alone. It is estimated that almost 20%, or 1 out of every 5 people in the United States have some form of mental health issue, according to the National Institute on Mental Health (2017).

Medical treatments for depression, autism, attention deficit disorder, insomnia, eating disorders, learning disabilities, drug addiction, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, bipolar, dementia are making pharmaceutical companies billions of dollars!

And then there are things like chronic stress, brain fog, anger management, anxiety, mood swings, sleep issues, irritability, and memory loss. Mental health problems are an ‘invisible epidemic’ that affect 1.1 billion people worldwide.

Physicians have long held onto the belief that the brain and the body do not affect each other. The common belief was that what we put into our bodies did not change anything in our brain. But that is wrong.

We now know, that mood, memory, attention and behavior problems and most other brain diseases have their root cause in the body, especially the gut. Perhaps the conventional medical approach to dealing with brain disorders is totally backwards.

Doctors used to speak of the ‘blood/brain’ barrier in terms of medications, toxins, foods etc. The idea was that most of what we ate or drank did not cross that barrier to the brain. Now we know that that is totally not true.

That holds very true for many of the foods we eat. Toxins in the form of preservatives, hormones, pesticides and other chemicals affect us physically and mentally, and often the result is dementia, ADHD, depression, anxiety, insomnia, brain fog, memory loss, autism, behavior problems and more.

According to Dr. Hyman in his “UltraMind Solution” book—

“There is such an onslaught of stress and environmental chemicals in our world, and it’s no wonder that our bodies and our brains are challenged and not functioning properly. We are exposed to toxins we were never designed to deal with—and nearly all of them cause brain injury…In fact, a recent government survey found an average of 148 chemicals in our bodies. And those were only the ones they tested.”

We are finding it very clear that the brain is very much linked to the body and the gut, and that what happens in the brain affects the body and what happens in the body most definitely affects the brain.

If our health is off somewhere in our body, then the health of the brain is often off too.

While just treating the brain with pharmaceuticals may lead to drug dependence, a dulled reality, and not treat the REAL problem, treating the body’s systemic natural chemistry and gut microbiome can fix brain chemistry imbalances and lead to genuine healing in the entire physical body.

An imbalance in any of system–nutrition, hormones, immune function, digestion, gut bacteria, detoxification, or metabolism can help to explain many of the symptoms that we think of as mental health issues. Most of these imbalances start in the body and show up eventually in the brain as mood, mental health or behavioral problems.

Messed up physical systems in the body actually can clue us into explanations for the depression, anxiety, dementia, autism, and attention deficit disorder that we see today.

Conventional treatments treat only the symptoms—often with powerful drugs that cause adverse side effects and never get to the root of the problem.

The simple truth is that your body and your brain, and all of your physical systems must interact together in one smooth dynamic system. If you improve your physical body’s health, you improve the health of your brain as well.

To illustrate, think about this– does a sugary snack make you feel anxious, jittery, and sleepy, then irritable later? Do you feel groggy and mentally slow after a big meal? Ever exercise hard and then feel calm, relaxed and happy afterwards?

How well do you focus on anything when you are sick?

We know that PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome) is the result of fluctuating hormones, but did you know that alcoholics can actually become ‘crazy’ with something called Wernicke’s encephalopathy that comes from vitamin B1 deficiency and simply treating with this vitamin will cure this condition? Did you know that antibiotics for strep infections can cure some children who suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder? And did you know that many schizophrenics often have a gluten sensitivity?

Heal the body, heal the brain.

Changing your diet, nutrients, sleep patterns, exercise, detoxing, balancing your hormones, correcting the bacterial balance in the gut, and removing foods that cause food allergies can all radically transform your mood, behavior and brain function.

These few steps can have a huge difference in your brain function and your physical health:

1. Eat, healthy, clean foods. Avoid any foods that you are sensitive or allergic to.
2. Add in necessary supplements for brain and physical health.
3. Make a habit of exercise, relaxation, meditation, and quality sleep in your daily life.
4. Avoid toxins in your food and environment.

If you can follow these steps for at least 6 weeks, you will see major changes your life, your outlook, and your sense of well being—literally in weeks or days!

Some of the changes you experience may happen almost immediately. If you are gluten sensitive and you stop eating gluten, your gut health and your brain can change within just a week or so. You may notice other major mental health improvements by removing dairy products, corn, and food additives.

More than 90% of the body’s serotonin lies in the gut, as well as about 50% of the body’s dopamine, so feeding the gut bacteria healthy foods, only serves to help your body make ‘happy’ brain chemicals.

Once you begin following these steps you will realize just how good you can feel—and you’ll never want to go back to feeling bad again.

Feed Your Brain the Right Foods

Your fork, you could say, can actually become one of the most powerful tools to use to change your health, your brain and your life.

There is nothing that has a bigger impact on your health. Absolutely nothing.

Here’s how to use that powerful tool:

• Eat REAL Food–Eat whole, real, fresh, organic, local and unprocessed food. If it has more than three ingredients (especially ones you do not immediately recognize), a package, or a barcode, AVOID IT.

• Get Healthy Fats for Your Head—The brain needs omega 3 fat DHA and EPA, which comes from algae, cold-water fatty fish and grass fed meats, along with saturated fats to stay its healthiest.

• Protein Power--Eat high quality, naturally sourced protein for breakfast every day, such as omega 3 eggs, salmon or grass fed meat, plain organic yogurt, or nut butters.

• Boost Your Brain Protectors–Eat piles of fruit and vegetables deeply colored with powerful phytonutrients. The deep red, yellow, orange, green, and blue in foods are a sign of powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, energy boosting, and brain-powering nutrients.

• Eat the RIGHT Kind of Carbs–Eat foods full of fiber, including raw vegetables, raw fruit, nuts, and seeds. This helps to clean out the gut, remove toxins, and grow healthy gut bacteria. A healthy gut has MUCH to do with the brain, and a healthy gut means a healthy brain!

• Remove the Poisons–Eliminate sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, coffee, alcohol, trans fats, food additives and preservatives, all of which poison your brain and disrupt your biochemistry.

If you can just follow these few steps—yes they may be big steps, but you can start instantly eliminating the brain-damaging foods and chemicals from you diet.

There is one other KEY change that is essential–That step is to eliminate the two most common causes of food allergens and hidden reactions in our diet. These come from gluten and pasteurized processed dairy.

Your brain reacts to allergens as well as your body—with increased inflammation. And when this occurs, you can get brain fog, anxiety/depression, autism, ADHD, dementia, and more. Gluten has even been proven to cause some cases of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

You don’t need to break out in hives or have an anaphylaxis reaction to these foods to be allergic. People often have hidden allergies to these foods and not even realize it—especially because these foods are often eaten on a daily basis, so the problem becomes chronic. Actually, that should be the FIRST thing you think of—“I am irritable today, or I feel depressed today,”…Think about WHAT you ate yesterday or the day before.

You can eat a piece of cheesecake on Monday and feel depressed on Tuesday. You eat a bag of cookies one day and the next day you are irritable. Many times, inflammatory reactions occur up to 24 to 48 hours later, but there definitely IS a connection to food sensitivities and changes in mood.

Many people just have ongoing, low-grade, delayed food sensitivities or allergies all the time. What you eat on a regular basis, may be causing a delayed allergic reaction you might not ever know it because those foods are the foods you just can’t do without.

You can get tested for food reactions from a doctor, but this method is not food proof. The best and easiest way is to remove the most common foods that cause reactions. Usually the top two are wheat and dairy.

Then pay close attention to your body and mind when you do this—the first few days may be tough, because you may actually have to break an addiction to these foods, but then you may suddenly feel great!

Remove the poisons in your diet as well including the artificial sweeteners, foods with preservatives, high-fructose corn syrup, trans fats or vegetable oils, and junk food.

Try this for a minimum of two-six weeks. Then challenge those foods and see how you feel, 1 hour, 4 hours, 12 hours, 24 and 48 hours later. You may be SHOCKED!

Supplements for your brain and physical health

Even those who eat the healthiest diet will probably need some additional supplements. These are ESSENTIAL for brain health and physical health as well.

1. Multivitamin–A high-quality, high-potency, multivitamin.
2. B vitamins that include methylfolate and methylcobalamin. These are forms of B vitamins necessary for brain health, nerve function, energy, and fat metabolism. A deficiency will cause anxiety, depression, loss of energy.
3. Vitamin C 500-1000 mg, take 1000 mg a day. Vitamin C reduces inflammation in the body and brain as well as protecting the immune system.
4. Omega 3 fatty acids with high levels of EPA and DHA.
5. Magnesium Glycinate or Magnesium Theonate to promote calm and overall better health.
6. An all-purpose digestive enzyme.

And be sure to incorporate these lifestyle changes into your life—exercise, relaxation and good sleep. Exercise naturally eases stress, releases ‘feel-good’ hormones, balances your gut bacteria, increases blood flow and helps balance blood sugar. Good sleep helps to ‘rewire’ the brain, eases stress and reboots the brain.

You should have the privilege to live a life that is alert, awake, engaged, present, focused, joyful and balanced. Making these changes in your diet and lifestyle, while healing your body will most definitely help heal your brain as well. You cannot have a truly healthy body without a healthy brain too.

Your body, your brain, your gut, and your health. All are one. Nourish your body and your mind will be nourished as well.

References
Report on brain aging at the National Institute on Aging:
Elias, M., 2005. “Want a Sharp Mind for Your Golden Years? Start Now,” USA Today, Aug 17, 2005. [accessed April 20, 2007] http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2005-08-17-save-your-brain_x.htm.
James E. Hicks, DC

GI Stability supports the GI tract by delivering targeted prebiotic action, supporting a healthy gut microbiome, and feeding the growth of beneficial bacteria.*^

  • Designed for everyday and acute gastrointestinal (GI) needs
  • With prebiotic 2’-FL: studies show that 2’-FL helps support the growth of beneficial bacteria*^
  • May help support the immune system
  • Contains Collinsonia Root, which has been historically used to support normal elimination and digestive health*

^To date, shown in multiple animal studies, infants, and one adult human study.

Digestive health issues affect daily life for millions of Americans. Many of these conditions are paired with a disrupted microbiome,1 which throws the GI system out of balance and may cause gut distress. Individual lifestyles, diets, antibiotic use, and traveling patterns have the potential to disrupt the microbiome. Building resilience to disruption is important – it helps give the human microbiome the ability to return to equilibrium.2 GI Stability provides targeted support for protecting the complex gastrointestinal environment.

How GI Stability Works
GI Stability takes a systems-based approach to managing the microbiome and supporting a healthy GI environment. It contains 2’-FL – a unique prebiotic HMO (Human Milk Oligosaccharide) that resists digestion and moves directly to the lower GI tract where it becomes effective in feeding selective bacteria.Studies show that HMOs have a unique structure that is preferred by beneficial microbes who use them to grow.4,5

The Importance of HMOs
HMOs are naturally found in human milk and contribute to the benefits of breast-feeding that are linked to long term development, immune protection, and microbial population cultivation.5,6 These benefits are not exclusive to infants, though. GI Stability is a great source for targeted prebiotic action that contributes to a healthy microbiome and may provide immune system support.*

GI System Health and Immune System Support
Proper GI integrity and a healthy gut microbiome help support immune defenses by influencing the development and production of immune cells, and by helping to regulate local GI and systemic immune system responses.7,8 Sustaining these microbes and supporting the cells that make up the GI lining with selective prebiotics is essential for GI support in the face of acute and chronic GI stress.7,8

References:

  1. Chan, Y.K., et al. Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism, 2013. 63(suppl 2)(Suppl. 2): p. 28-40.
  2. Ruan, W., et al. Digestive Diseases and Sciences, 2020: p. 1-11.
  3. Gibson, G.R., et al. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol, 2017. 14(8): p. 491-502.
  4. Yu, Z.-T., C. Chen, and D.S. Newburg. Glycobiology, 2013. 23(11): p. 1281-1292.
  5. Bode, L. Glycobiology, 2012. 22(9): p. 1147-1162.
  6. Marcobal, A., et al. J Agric Food Chem, 2010. 58(9): p. 5334-40.
  7. Shukla, S.D., et al. Clinical & Translational Immunology, 2017. 6(3): p. e133.
  8. Budden, K.F., et al. Nature Reviews Microbiology, 2017. 15(1): p. 55-63.

Product Videos


Nutrients & Ingredients

Each Serving Size (2 Wafers) contains: Calories 10, Total Carbohydrate 2 g, 2-Fucosyllactose 1666 mg, Collinsonia (root) 200 mg, Proprietary Blend 440 mg: Organic beet (root) and okra (fruit). Other ingredients: Organic rice (hull) concentrate and calcium stearate.

Make It Your Resolve in 2022 .... Get Healthy Now

Decide to make 2022 one of your best years ever...get Covid behind us. * Smile it's a free gift to give someone * Cleanse, cleanse, cleanse * Detox, detox, detox * Enjoy life to its fullest * Celebrate the new year with health in mind and enjoy a quality life for the rest of your life * Be healthy-give your body what it needs and take away what it doesn't (sugar) * Get motivated to be fit * Live simplyget rid of clutter * Get out of your own way * Be grateful/thankful * Don't be an energy vampire and stay away from those that rob you of your time and energy * Let go of resentment ...no need to grind an axe * Have a gut-wrenching laugh everyday * Be upbeat * Reduce your stress...have a safety outletwalk in the woods, do something you really enjoy * Make good quality food choiceseat organic as much as possible * Boycott MSG, aspartame (diet sodas), high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives * Never consume fake sugarsSplenda (sucralose), Equal (aspartame), Sweet N Low * Stay away from man-altered foodseat God made foods * Eliminate sodas from your diet * Eat a non inflammatory dieteat more fruits, vegetables, less meat, dairy, sugar, processed foods * Eliminate pasteurized cow's milk from your diethas pus in it -instead drink almond milk, rice milk, cashew milk, oat milk, coconut milk, hazelnut milk, milkadamia, flax milkno soy milk! * Use salt free of plastic (Himalayan salt) * Minimize or eliminate alcohol * Eat a rainbow (bright colors) salad daily with virgin olive oil and Bragg's Apple Cider Vinegar * Never use margarineuse real butter from grass-fed cows (Kerrygold Pure Irish Butter) * Take a whole food vitamin and mineral supplement daily (grown from the ground, not in chemistry lab) * For improved digestion, take a digestive enzyme and probiotic * Grow by meeting someone new, read a book, attend a seminar, take an educational course * Avoid drinking tap waterit's gone through an average of 6 other peoples' toilets before it reaches you * Drink spring water-has minerals that the muscles function on * If you smoke, chew, or vape, decide to quit * Do a whole body cleanse 4x/yearwhen the seasons change * Avoid using a microwave ovensuse toaster ovens * Get and use a juicer like a Nutri-Bullet * Take up a new hobby or adventure like ballroom dancingyou'll never be the same * Focus on functional fitness stretch 2-3x daily * Consider Tai-Chi, Qigong, Pilates, Yoga, Aquatics * Get a good supporting firm mattress * Use ceramic/cast iron or stainless steel cookware-avoid Teflon, non-stick, or aluminum cookware * Eliminate personal care products (shampoos/conditioners/body washes) that contain propylene glycol and sodium laurel sulfate * Avoid deodorants/antiperspirants that contain aluminum chlorohydrate * Avoid the use of toxic perfumes or colognesbest to use essential oils * Avoid tatoos * Avoid body piercingsgoes through major acupuncture points/meridians * Watch chemicals (RoundUp) that are used on lawnsvery toxic to children and pets * Use a safe non-toxic detergent and softener * Wear cotton clothingavoid clothing that does not breathe, like polyester * Avoid text neck_excessive use of cell phones looking down * Change what you can, embrace what you cannot * Vote * Maintain good spinal care-get regular chiropractic active or maintenance care * Change your life and health today....Ask about True Cellular Detox (TCD)

It's up to you.....Craft a healthy, strong, robust, aesthetic, and fit body that will serve you a lifetime it's all about having a healthy quality of life with no suffering or being forced into Assisted Living or Rest Home. We have the phenomenal technology, science, and incredible knowledge to put man on the moon and return him home safely, but we have a medically challenging problem of not being able to solve or eradicate cancers, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, crip or autoimmune diseases...so we need to learn how to take care of ourselves. No one will look after your health, better than YOU

It's Your Body, It's Your Health, It's Your Choice !

Potential Risks of Distilled Water

Ronald Grisanti D.C., D.A.B.C.O., DACBN, MS, CFMP

While distilled water is the purest type of water, it's not necessarily the healthiest.

The distillation process is very effective at removing potentially harmful contaminants, but it also removes the natural minerals and electrolytes found in water.

If you drink distilled water, be aware that it may have some drawbacks. The lack of minerals could prove problematic if you aren't getting them from another dietary source. In addition, the water might cause intestinal discomfort.

Along with unwanted impurities, beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium are also left behind as the steam rises during the distillation process.

In fact, distillation typically removes around 99.9% of all minerals found in tap water.

The lack of naturally occurring minerals, such as sodium, chloride and potassium, in distilled water can pose a negative health effect. These minerals are known as electrolytes.

Therefore, your body is forced to give electrolytes to the mineral and nutrient-free water. With this, your electrolyte level will slowly decrease and eventually cause electrolyte imbalance in your body.

To sum up, if you drink distilled water consistently, you are putting your health at risk. It has no sufficient amount of minerals and nutrients that can protect your body against diseases and illnesses. Second, it can potentially lead to certain health problems such as bone deformities, digestive tract disorders, and even blood-related sickness.

I personally believe the best source of drinking water is spring water.

Of course I expect some debate about my opinion but spring water from a reliable source has proven to have many health benefits.

Here are some valuable benefits:

  • Balancing the pH of your body
  • Natural source of necessary minerals

How to choose a good spring water brand?

The points to remember when choosing a water company are as follows:

  • Determine how long they are in the business
  • The source of water
  • Does the water pass purification and tests
  • Is there a water test report available (especially on their website)
  • Does the bottle have the label of the brand?

 

The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. It is intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from the research and experience of Dr. Grisanti and his functional medicine community. Dr. Grisanti encourages you to make your own health care decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care professional. Visit www.FunctionalMedicineUniversity.com for more information on our training in functional medicine. Look for practitioners who have successfully completed the Functional Medicine University's Certification Program (CFMP) www.functionalmedicinedoctors.com. This content may be copied in full, with copyright, contact, creation and information intact, without specific permission, when used only in a not-for-profit format. If any other use is desired, permission in writing from Dr. Grisanti is required

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Disclaimer:
The entire contents of this website are based upon the opinions of Dr. Hicks, unless otherwise noted. Individual articles are based upon the opinions of the respective author. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. It is intended as a sharing of knowledge, information from the research, clinical experience of Dr. Hicks, and professional and continuing education. Dr. Hicks encourages you to make your own health care decisions based upon your research, performing your own due diligence, and in concert with a qualified health care professional. If you become a patient, Dr. Hicks will treat the whole body that has your condition, and will not treat the condition that has the body. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult your health care professional before using any products based on this content. All patient testimonials are genuine and are the actual results they have achieved. They are not to be misconstrued, conveyed, or guaranteed that you will receive the same or similar results. It is imperative that you establish a professional relationship with a health care provider or clinic that you trust and respect to handle your care.

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