Mar 31, 2013
Mar 30, 2013
Mar 28, 2013
Mar 27, 2013
Diet & ENDO
I found this information on an endometriosis support group today and wanted to share, It essentially sums up my diet since January. I have been meat free for 17 years but the big change was giving up wheat, alcohol and dairy. I can't say that I haven't cheated, especially since I just got back from a vacation, but I have been 90% faithful and I can say that I have seen results! I have seen a major difference in the amount of pelvic pain that I experience throughout the month and my period pain has even improved a bit. It hasn't been a big improvement but I can say that I have been able to shorten the amount of time that I needed pain meds on my period. That is something =) Something that I find interesting is that I experienced some major breakouts about 6 weeks into this new diet. I wonder if there was a shift in hormones from completely cutting out the dairy? I can't fully explain it but it seems to have calmed down now. (which may be because I was just on vacation... no stress)
My goal was to prepare my body for surgery, which I have finally submitted to. I want to be in the best possible place for healing and hopefully baby making! =)
I hope someone out there reading this may find this information helpful. If I can ever be of any help to you in your journey with pelvic pain and endometriosis please contact me.
Foods to avoid in endometriosis
1. Red Meat– Research shows that the consumption of red meat can increase the risk of endometriosis by more than 80% . This is because red meat contains fats that promote inflammation, and inflammation is one of the driving and maintaining factors of endometriosis. Particularly ham is bad in endometriosis because it contains the food additive sodium nitrate which is highly toxic and can interfere with functioning of your reproductive system by causing DNA damage. Good alternatives for red meat include deep sea fish, lean white meat such as turkey, or pulses (vegetable source of protein).
2. Trans fatty acids – Studies show a 48% increased risk on developing endometriosis if you are on a high trans fatty acid diet. Trans fatty acids are found in cakes, biscuits, muffins, pies, crusts, margarine, shortening, cake/pancake mixes, donuts, French fries, chips, candy, frozen dinners and other processed foods. Women with a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids (fish, nuts, seeds) on the other hand, are less likely to develop endometriosis. So if you are looking for a snack, a small handful of unroasted, unsalted nuts and seeds is a far better idea than a biscuit, cake etc. I like to put nut butter on a rice cake and top with vegan chocolate chips when I am craving sweets!
3. Gluten – Gluten is found in wheat, rye, barley and triticale (a cross between wheat and rye). Spelt and semolina are also better avoided. These types of grains are commonly used in muesli, cereals, bread, pasta, biscuits, cakes, pies, pizza etc; but also in instant soups and sauces as binding agent. One recent study found that 75% of women with endometriosis who followed a gluten-free diet for at least 12 months, noticed considerable relief in period pain and abdominal pain not related to periods. Alternative grains that are often better tolerated include millet, corn, rice, amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat, corn and cornmeal, millet, rice, and sorghum. A gluten free diet is challenging, but there are many places that offer gluten free products; and it is worth the effort. I am finally getting used to it but I do miss my sweet potato and cinnamon crackers!
4. Processed foods – All processed foods come with additives, preservatives and chemical flavours which stimulate the production of prostaglandins (a type of hormone or messenger) that trigger inflammation. The negative health effects of additives are too many to list. If you are interested in more detailed information, “The Chemical Maze” by Bill Statham lists them one by one. This book is also available as an app.
5. Sugar – Sugar causes acidity in your body. Acidity causes inflammation, and creates an environment in which bacteria and viruses thrive. Researchers have found bacterial, viral and possibly parasitic infections may be the initial cause of endometrial tissue development with some resistant bacteria remaining active in the female reproductive system indefinitely. Refined sugar is found in many processed foods. If you are looking for a natural sweetener to use instead, try stevia (without any additives), yacun syrup, agave syrup or xylitol. I use honey in and on everything! I personally think it is the healthiest sweetener.
6. Artificial sweeteners – Artificial sweeteners have been linked with increased oestrogen levels, adverse effect on the immune system, increased inflammation and increased testosterone levels. Natural sweeteners are a better choice if you really want to sweeten your food or drink. I get migraines from aspartame and avoid it like the plague!
7. Caffeine – Caffeine is a stimulant and contributes to acidity in your body. It also interferes with liver functioning, and reduces your ability to detoxify and eliminate excessive estrogens. Caffeine also interferes with the production of progesterone, which counteracts the adverse effects of estrogen. Remember caffeine is not only found in coffee, but also in black and green tea, cola, Red Bull, and cocoa. Herbal teas are what I drink all day. Make sure you choose a good quality herbal tea that has a rich smell and in which you can still see the shape and colour of the leaves, flowers and berries used. My favorite coffee alternative is Teechino, it's delicious!!
8. Alcohol – It has been well known for a long time that alcohol consumption increases the risk on endometriosis. Some studies show that the risk on developing endometriosis is 50% higher in those who consume alcohol. The liver is responsible for eliminating excessive levels of estrogen from your body. Consumption of alcohol puts an excessive burden on the liver. Elimination of alcohol from the body becomes paramount and thereby hinders its capacity of eliminating the estrogen from your body and thus contributes to an estrogen dominant environment in which endometriosis can develop and thrive. On top of that, alcohol creates acidity which in its turn can cause inflammation. This was a hard one for me to give up, (I love my red wine) but I think it made the most difference in how I feel!
1. Red Meat– Research shows that the consumption of red meat can increase the risk of endometriosis by more than 80% . This is because red meat contains fats that promote inflammation, and inflammation is one of the driving and maintaining factors of endometriosis. Particularly ham is bad in endometriosis because it contains the food additive sodium nitrate which is highly toxic and can interfere with functioning of your reproductive system by causing DNA damage. Good alternatives for red meat include deep sea fish, lean white meat such as turkey, or pulses (vegetable source of protein).
2. Trans fatty acids – Studies show a 48% increased risk on developing endometriosis if you are on a high trans fatty acid diet. Trans fatty acids are found in cakes, biscuits, muffins, pies, crusts, margarine, shortening, cake/pancake mixes, donuts, French fries, chips, candy, frozen dinners and other processed foods. Women with a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids (fish, nuts, seeds) on the other hand, are less likely to develop endometriosis. So if you are looking for a snack, a small handful of unroasted, unsalted nuts and seeds is a far better idea than a biscuit, cake etc. I like to put nut butter on a rice cake and top with vegan chocolate chips when I am craving sweets!
3. Gluten – Gluten is found in wheat, rye, barley and triticale (a cross between wheat and rye). Spelt and semolina are also better avoided. These types of grains are commonly used in muesli, cereals, bread, pasta, biscuits, cakes, pies, pizza etc; but also in instant soups and sauces as binding agent. One recent study found that 75% of women with endometriosis who followed a gluten-free diet for at least 12 months, noticed considerable relief in period pain and abdominal pain not related to periods. Alternative grains that are often better tolerated include millet, corn, rice, amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat, corn and cornmeal, millet, rice, and sorghum. A gluten free diet is challenging, but there are many places that offer gluten free products; and it is worth the effort. I am finally getting used to it but I do miss my sweet potato and cinnamon crackers!
4. Processed foods – All processed foods come with additives, preservatives and chemical flavours which stimulate the production of prostaglandins (a type of hormone or messenger) that trigger inflammation. The negative health effects of additives are too many to list. If you are interested in more detailed information, “The Chemical Maze” by Bill Statham lists them one by one. This book is also available as an app.
5. Sugar – Sugar causes acidity in your body. Acidity causes inflammation, and creates an environment in which bacteria and viruses thrive. Researchers have found bacterial, viral and possibly parasitic infections may be the initial cause of endometrial tissue development with some resistant bacteria remaining active in the female reproductive system indefinitely. Refined sugar is found in many processed foods. If you are looking for a natural sweetener to use instead, try stevia (without any additives), yacun syrup, agave syrup or xylitol. I use honey in and on everything! I personally think it is the healthiest sweetener.
6. Artificial sweeteners – Artificial sweeteners have been linked with increased oestrogen levels, adverse effect on the immune system, increased inflammation and increased testosterone levels. Natural sweeteners are a better choice if you really want to sweeten your food or drink. I get migraines from aspartame and avoid it like the plague!
7. Caffeine – Caffeine is a stimulant and contributes to acidity in your body. It also interferes with liver functioning, and reduces your ability to detoxify and eliminate excessive estrogens. Caffeine also interferes with the production of progesterone, which counteracts the adverse effects of estrogen. Remember caffeine is not only found in coffee, but also in black and green tea, cola, Red Bull, and cocoa. Herbal teas are what I drink all day. Make sure you choose a good quality herbal tea that has a rich smell and in which you can still see the shape and colour of the leaves, flowers and berries used. My favorite coffee alternative is Teechino, it's delicious!!
8. Alcohol – It has been well known for a long time that alcohol consumption increases the risk on endometriosis. Some studies show that the risk on developing endometriosis is 50% higher in those who consume alcohol. The liver is responsible for eliminating excessive levels of estrogen from your body. Consumption of alcohol puts an excessive burden on the liver. Elimination of alcohol from the body becomes paramount and thereby hinders its capacity of eliminating the estrogen from your body and thus contributes to an estrogen dominant environment in which endometriosis can develop and thrive. On top of that, alcohol creates acidity which in its turn can cause inflammation. This was a hard one for me to give up, (I love my red wine) but I think it made the most difference in how I feel!
Mar 10, 2013
Mar 1, 2013
Feb 25, 2013
Oscars 2013
My picks for BEST dressed last night.
There were a lot of beautiful women
these were the three I couldn't stop talking about
and the three worst..
these two were also FABULOUS!!!
Feb 24, 2013
Feb 21, 2013
Feb 9, 2013
Seasons of your heart
“Even as the stone of the fruit must break, that its heart may stand in the sun, so must you know pain. And could you keep your heart in wonder at the daily miracles of your life, your pain would not seem less wondrous than your joy; And you would accept the seasons of your heart, even as you have always accepted the seasons which pass over your fields. And you would watch with serenity through the winters of your grief.”
image: Grassdoe
Feb 8, 2013
letterpress
Looking for fun and unique Valentines
for your sweetheart this year?
Head on over to ETSY, there are tons to choose from!
Feb 4, 2013
Feb 2, 2013
Jan 16, 2013
Craving
Jan 4, 2013
day 4
You are not your emotional state. Emotional states stem from grasping desires and encroaching fears, but true awareness is calmness. And calmness is healing.
Jan 3, 2013
make change day 3
Unwanted recurring experiences can be burned in the fire of awareness, determination, and optimism.
Dec 29, 2012
Dec 27, 2012
caught on camera
The world is full of good and beautiful people
sometimes we need a reminder of this
Dec 23, 2012
The Mother
The Eucharist of The Mother
There were three who spoke the words,
“This is my body,
broken for you.”
Last night I couldn’t sleep
for the throbbing of my hips.
They expand to make room
for the infant within.
Belly taught and stretching,
aching back, and sore feet.
Did you know a woman’s heart
moves over to accommodate
the organs displaced
by the growing baby?
Did you know her body pumps
twice the amount of blood
of a regular woman
for the duration of her pregnancy?
The Mother is the first vessel
of the Eucharist.
The creative heat
of sweat and seed,
the consumed consumer,
the fruit of two lovers gives way
to 10 months of carrying,
waiting and finally breaking.
The first lesson is:
it takes a lot of waiting
to grow what God plants inside you,
and in order to birth it
you must suffer a breaking open.
The labor will be long,
painful…
And it will be messy,
(theology can try, but it can’t dismiss blood and water, and the mess
of being divinely human)
It must,and shall,
rip you apart.
But what mother would not endure
this wrenching open
for the joy of finally holding
the sacred creation?
And, what mother would not choose
a greater suffering than this
if she could but spare her son
from pain?
I saw my boy run toward me
carefree,
his golden hair flying behind his
smiling face
and in one instant ,
tripping over himself,
he fell…
his mouth hitting
the cruel corner of a metal chair.
Time played tricks as he fell:
I knew his danger,
and an impending injury,
but was powerless to stop it.
Later that night, returned from the ER,
my son asleep in his bed,
I rubbed my knuckles raw
scrubbing his blood out of our clothes.
The anguish was just as poignant
when I watched the dirty brown water
disappear down the drain,
even though I knew he was alright;
For it was his blood and water that was
draining,
And his blood is my blood,
our blood…
“shed for you“.
How many more times did The Mother
watch The Creation’s life slip away?
It was not just his death.
She must have sensed the impending danger,
must have guessed where he was
headed,
and yet,
She was asked to stand at the kitchen
sink, and watch the brown water slip away.
And in His death,
do not doubt for a second,
that she received each blow,
each laceration,
each cut,
each piercing,
and choked for air
as she watched herself die.
His, Her final death.
Her ultimate sacrifice,
and surrender.
This is the example of The Mother:
To accept this body is not my own
and in such willingness
as to carry the seed to term,
even knowing that it will break me apart.
Trusting the breaking in order to withhold
the joy of the creation
while never seeking to posses it,
ever choosing to release it,
and surrendering
again, and again,
even in death.
“Do this in remembrance of me.”
by: Brie Stoner
There were three who spoke the words,
“This is my body,
broken for you.”
Last night I couldn’t sleep
for the throbbing of my hips.
They expand to make room
for the infant within.
Belly taught and stretching,
aching back, and sore feet.
Did you know a woman’s heart
moves over to accommodate
the organs displaced
by the growing baby?
Did you know her body pumps
twice the amount of blood
of a regular woman
for the duration of her pregnancy?
The Mother is the first vessel
of the Eucharist.
The creative heat
of sweat and seed,
the consumed consumer,
the fruit of two lovers gives way
to 10 months of carrying,
waiting and finally breaking.
The first lesson is:
it takes a lot of waiting
to grow what God plants inside you,
and in order to birth it
you must suffer a breaking open.
The labor will be long,
painful…
And it will be messy,
(theology can try, but it can’t dismiss blood and water, and the mess
of being divinely human)
It must,and shall,
rip you apart.
But what mother would not endure
this wrenching open
for the joy of finally holding
the sacred creation?
And, what mother would not choose
a greater suffering than this
if she could but spare her son
from pain?
I saw my boy run toward me
carefree,
his golden hair flying behind his
smiling face
and in one instant ,
tripping over himself,
he fell…
his mouth hitting
the cruel corner of a metal chair.
Time played tricks as he fell:
I knew his danger,
and an impending injury,
but was powerless to stop it.
Later that night, returned from the ER,
my son asleep in his bed,
I rubbed my knuckles raw
scrubbing his blood out of our clothes.
The anguish was just as poignant
when I watched the dirty brown water
disappear down the drain,
even though I knew he was alright;
For it was his blood and water that was
draining,
And his blood is my blood,
our blood…
“shed for you“.
How many more times did The Mother
watch The Creation’s life slip away?
It was not just his death.
She must have sensed the impending danger,
must have guessed where he was
headed,
and yet,
She was asked to stand at the kitchen
sink, and watch the brown water slip away.
And in His death,
do not doubt for a second,
that she received each blow,
each laceration,
each cut,
each piercing,
and choked for air
as she watched herself die.
His, Her final death.
Her ultimate sacrifice,
and surrender.
This is the example of The Mother:
To accept this body is not my own
and in such willingness
as to carry the seed to term,
even knowing that it will break me apart.
Trusting the breaking in order to withhold
the joy of the creation
while never seeking to posses it,
ever choosing to release it,
and surrendering
again, and again,
even in death.
“Do this in remembrance of me.”
by: Brie Stoner
Dec 22, 2012
Dec 21, 2012
Dec 11, 2012
Nov 22, 2012
Happy Thanksgiving
Happy Thanksgiving to all!!
We will have a house full of family this weekend
I cannot wait to see my sweet nephews
and my brother and sister in law!
I am so thankful for family!!!
Here is a yummy recipe I plan to try this weekend
We are all big hummus fans
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can organic white beans (cannellini or other), drained and rinsed
1 cup pure organic pumpkin
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (try not to substitute lemon juice, the lime flavor really works here)
1 medium-large clove garlic (adjust to taste)
1 tsp sea salt
1 – 2 tbsp tahini (to taste)
3/4 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp (rounded) ground allspice
1/4 – 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (if you don’t have smoked paprika, use another 1/4 tsp cumin – then go out and get yourself some smoked paprika!!)
1/2 tsp pure maple syrup
1/3 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (see note for toasting; reserve about 2-3 tbsp for garnish)
In a food processor add all ingredients except pumpkin seeds (and starting with 1 tbsp tahini). Puree until very smooth. Taste, and if you’d like to add addditional garlic or spices, add a little (and if you’d like a richer tahini flavor, add the other tablespoon). Then, add most of the pumpkin seeds (reserving a couple of tbsps), and pulse through. Transfer mixture to a serving dish, and top with remaining pumpkin seeds. Serve with whole-grain pita breads, tortilla chips, warm whole-grain bread, etc.
Beans Note: The combination of chickpeas and white beans makes this hummus a little creamier than using just chickpeas alone.
Pumpkin Seeds Note: When I toast nuts and seeds, I do so in larger batches so that I have them ready to use another time. So, consider toasting about a cup or more. To toast pumpkin seeds, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (I use my toaster oven and a small baking tray). Bake at 400 for several minutes until they turn a golden color and you can smell a nutty aroma. This won’t take long, maybe about 5-7 minutes, possibly longer depending on your oven. Just be sure to watch them after about 6-7 minutes, as they can burn quickly.
Nov 12, 2012
Anne
I'm so excited for my December issue of Vogue to arrive,
and even more excited to see Les Miserables in December!!
I adore Anne Hathway.
Nov 6, 2012
Nov 5, 2012
Nov 4, 2012
Orphan Sunday
Click HERE to read the beautiful blog post that opened my mind to Orphan Sunday
If you click HERE you will find a website that has tons of great resources
and will open your heart and mind to ways you can help orphans.
Oct 30, 2012
devastation
‘Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10
Oct 13, 2012
Oct 9, 2012
wisdom
Philippians 2:14-15
Oct 2, 2012
Oct 1, 2012
Sep 24, 2012
Fashion
A couple of fabulous looks from the Emmy's last night
one huge disappointment... Can you say "trying to hard"
Sep 14, 2012
Sep 12, 2012
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