GOOD HEALTHY FUN!

The Next Best Step to a Healthier You

2011-12-29T07:26:00.000-08:00

I get asked my opinion about diets all the time, and regularly make dietary suggestions to my patients as part of their treatment plans. And, while the specifics may vary, there are some basic principles that I find myself repeating over and over again. So I thought I would share them with you. They are:

1: Take Lateral or side steps

2. Eat more greens

3: The Run DMC rule

Today, I am going to talk about lateral steps or side steps.

Most of us want to move towards greater health-more vitality, increased energy, better digestion. solid sleep, glowing skin, a flat belly-whatever it may be for you. So what is your best next step, given that there are often a number of ways to get there or a number of things standing in our way. Sometimes our biggest obstacle is ourselves- fears, addictions, poor habits, low motivation, or perhaps we simply don't have a good support system or don't know what to do.

The good news is: No matter where you are on your road to optimal health, you can take the next step.

Often, the simplest next best step is a side step or a lateral step. This means asking yourself, "Can I replace something I am doing or eating with a healthier option?"

Here are some examples and food for thought:

Increase the amount of organic foods in your diet, or start buying your veggies from farmer's markets.
Start decreasing gluten by swapping out wheat pasta and crackers for rice pasta and crackers.
If you eat dairy, use raw organic or goat dairy (cheese, milk, yogurt, butter), rather than conventional dairy (the toxins are stored in the fat my friends!)
Swap organic dark chocolate for your favorite candy bar
Make a healthy breakfast smoothie with protein, rather than than buying smoothies from the store or Jamba Juice (which I've seen referred to as adult milkshakes-super high in sugar!)
Swap out green tea or roasted dandelion tea for coffee. Or make coffee a treat once a week, rather than a daily habit.
Take a look at your snack bar. Can you understand the ingredients and does it have some quality protein (ideally not soy) and some other redeeming qualities- like nutrients, greens of fiber, or is it just an adult candy bar?

Taking lateral steps moves you forward down the path to greater health. This is the way that I have eased on down the road.

You may think that when you start down the path of making healthier food choices, or find that you have food allergies or sensitivities and need to avoid some of you favorites, that it is going to to be a chore or you will feel restricted and limited. My experience has been that when one door closes, others open. And by closing doors you discover whole new realms of foods and eating that actually feel really good.

Raw desserts were one of those doors for me. After an episode of getting severely poisoned (more on that another time), I had to be really strict about what was coming into my body. No wheat, corn, dairy, egg... so desserts where pretty much out. Until I discovered Cafe Gratitude and learned how to make raw desserts. All of a sudden i could indulge in these treats and guess what- my body actually felt good after eating them! What a concept. They didn't leave me feeling heavy and spacey and tired. Bonus.

So I am a big fan of side stepping, and have seen it work wonders in helping others transform their health and create lasting positive habits.

My Essential Cleanse program is a great way to redirect you into some of these new realms of eating and give you lots of support and specific suggestions of how to make specific lateral steps. Find out more about our upcoming programs here- the Post-Holiday Essential Cleanse kicks off on January 5th!

Love to hear about some lateral shifts that you have made in your life and the difference it has made in your health, so please share your comments below!

My Top 12 Flu Prevention and Treatment Tips

2011-10-18T22:54:00.000-07:00

Alas, the cold and flu season is starting to rear it's ugly head and flu shots are being peddled all over the place.

I am more concerned about the potential health damage from the flu vaccine, than treating the actual flu. But an ounce of prevention can go a really long way when it comes to the Flu- swine or otherwise.

I am not a fan of the flu shot and don't recommend them. I find they aren't safe, aren't effective and aren't necessary. In fact, they piss me off. Check out my past blogpost on the flu vaccine if you want to know why.

I do mention some of my favorite products in this post, primarily high quality physician line formulas, which are all available in my natural pharmacy.

So here we go...my Top 12 Tips for Preventing and Treating the Flu.

1. Mucococcinum My Numero Uno remedy.

Used effectively in Europe for decades, this homeopathic remedy provides a whopping 88% effectiveness rate for preventing the flu- no matter what strain is going around! No flu vaccine is even coming close to that. And, it's super simple: Take 1 tablet every other week from October to March.

You can also take it to treat flu symptoms-clinical evidence also shows it has an 82% efficacy rate. And while it sounds similar, it is not the same as over-the-counter Oscillococcinum.

Mucococcinum:It's cool. It's Euro. And it works.

2. Wash your hands frequently or use a natural hand sanitizer (available in health food stores). Avoid touching your nose, mouth, or eyes, with dirty hands as this is how viral particles are spread. Avoid or limit contact with people who are sick or might have been exposed to the flu.

3. Take a probiotic or include fermented foods like sauerkraut or kimchee daily. Healthy gut bugs=healthy immune system

4. Avoid eating mucous forming foods: peanuts, oranges, dairy, sugar, bananas, red meat and alcohol.

5. Load up on all things green: green leafy vegetables, green juices, wheatgrass, and sprouts. These high energy foods alkalize to help your body resist infection. You can also use a green powder superfood.

6. Boost immune function by supplementing with Vitamin D or Cod Liver Oil with Vitamin D. It is an essential winter immune support staple.

7. If you tend to have a weak immune system, or catch everything going around, then I recommend a formula called Thymic Formula. It is the bomb. It can be taken as an immune support multivitamin daily, or increased as needed if you start to get sick. (Please note: it is not vegetarian)

8. Have your medicine cabinet stocked with remedies that will help with the flu. I like Muccocinum, Acute Immune Formula, Flu-Ease, and IM-Encaps. Additionally, I like to have a cough elixir and sore throat formula on hand. I take Yin Chao Chinese formula at the first sign of a cold or flu.

(just a reminder, many of these products can be found in my natural pharmacy if you are wondering where to get them!)

9. Catch up on extra sleep.

10. Eliminate or cut down on sugar.

11. Give up alcohol and coffee for a while. These substances tax your liver. Did you know that the liver plays an important role in immune function? Consider a cleanse

12. Hydrate! Mix 1/4 tsp of baking soda in water and drink it once a day. This helps alkalize the body, which helps it fight infection. Make sure you are drinking at least 8 cups of water/day minimum. Avoid ice water and sip herbal teas.

Plus 2 extra bonus tips!

13. Give yourself a hot foot bath at the first signs of getting sick.

Soak feet in hot water while wrapped in a warm wool blanket. Put a cold cloth on your head ( very important!) and relax while you sit in a comfortable position for 10-15 minutes. Take care to avoid getting chilled after this treatment. Great to stimulate the immune system, decrease congestion and help with headaches.

14. Engage in stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation, hiking, deep breathing, fun, play, sex (yep, Marvin Gaye was right...) and creative endeavors. Stress decerases immune function, and there are so many supportive things you can do to protect yourself and stay healthy!

I'd love to hear from you- what do you do when you get a cold or a flu? What do you find effective?

7 Easy Tips for Fall Cleansing

2011-09-14T14:25:00.000-07:00

Spring cleansing is to rid the body of toxins stored during the long winter. In winter the diet is usually heavier and we are less active than the rest of the year. These two factors may cause toxins, to accumulate in the tissues of the body. In contrast, Fall cleansing is designed to prevent the body from building up toxicity during the coming winter months. Supporting the lungs and the colon are very important this time of year to prevent build-up of phlegm and the tendency for coughs and bronchitis in the winter.

1) Eat foods that are local and in season for Fall, like nuts, seeds, pears, persimmons, pomegranate, squashes, apples, figs. For a complete list, go to www.sustainabletable.org.

2) Support elimination by adding additional fiber. You can add a fiber supplement or add 2 Tbsp ground flax seeds or Chia seeds daily to your food.

3) Drink plenty of fluids to enhance the excretion of toxins through the kidneys and stay hydrated. My rule of thumb is take your body weight, divide it in half, and drink at least that many fluid oz. for example, if you weigh 160 lbs, you would want to drink at least 80 fl oz of water/day.

4) Practice 3 rounds of Breath of Fire daily to strengthen and enhance elimination through the lungs. Check out some visuals here (hello!) and here (work your way up to this pace)

5) Practice self-massage or abhyanga to move the lymphatic system. Try using warm sesame oil or special ayurvedic oils and massage towards your heart. This will help clear out accumulated toxins in the tissues.

6) Movement. It is ideal to do at least 20 minutes of vigorous movement in the morning and then at least 20 minutes relaxing yoga practice, stretching or Chi gong in the evening.
Exercising 20ish minutes after a meal is optimal.

7) Enhance digestion with herbs and spices like cardamom, fresh ginger, cinnamon, fennel, cumin, and turmeric. Eat them in your food or make a simple tea such as:

Fennel and Ginger Tea
1 tsp fennel seeds
1 tsp minced fresh ginger
1 1/2 cup water
Place all ingredients in pan and boil together 5 minutes. Strain and drink.

Happy Fall and Happy Cleansing. If you would like more tips, support and are ready to feel more energized and boost your immune system in preparation for winter, or participate in one of my upcoming Essential Cleanse programs!

Extreme Health: Natural Remedies for Maintaining Vitality and Treating Common Ailments at Burningman

2011-08-11T17:56:00.000-07:00

The Climate out at Black Rock City is intense, and your body can really take a toll from all of the other fun shenanigans that you might get into on the Playa. So a little health prep can go a long way.

Here is a handout I made for a talk last year chock full o' tips and strategies to help keep you in tip top form so you can have more energy and stamina, sleep better, not get sick and get back to work more easily when you return to the modern world.

I.Basics

· Hydration: carry water at all times. Use electrolytes, pinch of sea salt, Emergen-c.

· Food- eat lightly, but snack regularly. Include salty foods.

· Sunscreen. Lip Balm. Hat.

· Goggles/Sunglasses/Dust Mask

· Sleep-when you can!

· Basic Supplements: Multivitamin. EFA. Greens.

· First Aid Kit- suggestion can be found at www.burningman.com

II. Thriving vs Surviving

· Playa Foot: wear shoes! Soak in ¼ white vinegar and 3/4water. Dry thoroughly and apply coconut oil or good moisturizer before going bed or putting your shoes and socks on

· Indigestion: if you tend to have a sensitive tummy: take probiotics daily before hitting the playa, and also while you are there. Consider taking digestive enzymes if you tend to get tummy aches or indigestion. Be sure to bring some mint, chamomile or licorice tea.

· Diarrhea: use a hand sanitizer (natural one) after using the porta- potty. Bring some Charcoal caps. In a pinch, eat some burnt toast or carob.

· Constipation: take 250-500 mg of extra magnesium daily. Hydrate. Bring a gentle magnesium based laxative if you know you tend towards constipation.

· Playa Lung: from the dust, Burning stuff. Mint/Licorice Teas. Liver detox support- during and after. Cough Elixir with soothing herbs like Marshmallow and Licorice. Be sure to take a formula like this if you have asthma. Use your dust mask. Especially after the Man Burn and the Temple Burn

· Dry/Hoarse/ Sore throat: use a throat spray with propolis and soothing herbs several times/day. Natural throat lozenges. Throat coat tea.

· Colds/Flus/Infections: bring a basic all purpose immune support formula and Vitamin C

· Dry Irritated Eyes: homeopathic eye drops with Euphrasia. Wear your goggles.

· Bumps/Bruises/Sprains/Strains: homeopathic formula with Arnica in it. For topical lesions, a gel or salve with calendula and other antiseptic and anti-microbial herbs in it.

· Energy: support your energy with more than just caffeine! Consider taking Maca, Ginseng, Licorice or other adrenal support, multi vitamins, greens

Many of these products can be found in my natural pharmacy

III. Party Pax

· Daily Maintenance Pax- multi-vitamin, EPA/DHA, liver detox support, brain nutrients, magnesium

· Booze Pax: provides electrolytes, liver detox support, anti-inflammatory and blood sugar balance

· Extreme Pax- supports neurotransmitter balance, liver detox, muscle relaxation

· I recommend a Daily Maintenance Pax , um...daily

+ a booze pax if you are indulging in more than a few drinks

+ an extreme pax if you are taking any mind- altering substances, stimulants or multiple substances

For more info or to order Dr. Cory's Party Pax

Want to hear this in person?

Then come to my talk at Prepare for The Playa, Sunday August 14th, 1-7pm. Club Cocomo, SF.

Extreme Health: Natural Remedies for Maintaining Vitality and Treating Common Ailments on the Playa

Dr Cory Reddish, Local Naturopathic Doctor, Fellow Burner and creator of Dr. Cory’s Party Pax- Virtuous Nutrients for your Vices, will be presenting natural strategies for addressing common Burningman complaints- from Playa Foot to Playa Lung and everything in between. She will also offer tips on maintaining your energy and vitality in such an extreme environment, and specifically address nutrient depletion and imbalances that can result from all-night parties, consumption of alcohol and psychoactive substances.

Top 5 Tips for Summer Party and Travel Recovery

2011-07-06T21:12:00.000-07:00

If you are like me, you tend to feel best when you are eating healthy food, avoiding foods that you are sensitive or allergic to, in your yoga/exercise/meditation routine, moderating the caffeine and alcohol and sugar intake- and then along comes a wedding/family reunion/roadtrip/party/holiday week-end/festival/fill in the blank and all of your hard earned balance goes down the tube.

Your energy, mental clarity and digestion gets funky, sleep gets thrown off, maybe you gain a little weight from all the potato salad, bar-b-que and red velvet cake. Perhaps you might have a few hungover days and end up wanting to veg in bed as opposed to enjoying the bounty of activity that summer has to offer. For some people this can happen after only one beer or glass of wine.

What if it doesn't have to be that way? What if you could bounce back more rapidly? What if you could play and enjoy yourself, but have support in place so that you don't trash your body and feel like k-rap the next day. This is what I have been extensively researching over the last few years... :)

So here are my top 5 Tips for Summer Play Recovery. Have your party, and feel good too.
I will be covering recovery from food, alcohol, and for some of you, other recreational substances. (Please note: I am not endorsing that you go out and participate in any or all of these activities, I am just acknowledging the reality for a broad cross section of my client base.)

Hydrate: dehydration and electrolyte imbalance can lead to dizziness, nausea, headaches and is a major cause of hangover symptoms. Be sure to drink at least 80-100 fl oz of water. You can add Emergen-C for electrolytes, or try coconut water. It is a treasure trove of electrolytes.
Digestive Enzymes: if you are going outside of your normal dietary habits, or overeating, or getting indigestion, constipation or stomach aches, take 2 digestive enzymes with your meals. My favorite are Similase. If you don't have any on hand, try a shot of 2 tbsp of apple cider vinegar in water
Greens. Eat as many veggies as you can- excluding iceberg lettuce. That is not a vegetable! Bring a green powder supplement, like Billy's Infinity Greens to ensure you get your daily dose. This will help your liver detoxify and provide you with clean sustained energy.
Take a good multivitamin with you, again to ensure you get your daily dose of nutrients, and B-vitamins and chromium help with hangover symptoms.
Detox: For those of you engaging in recreational substances or a lot of alcohol, consider a detox formula that has herbs like kudzu and milk thistle in it, amino acids like 5-HTP , taurine and tyrosine to boost your mood, and good anti-oxidants like CoQ10 and alpha-lipoic acid to minimize damage to your cells.

A little planning and preparation can go a long way to help you get the most out of your summer time fun! Take a look at my custom formulated and recommended party and travel support formulas in my natural pharmacy!

And if you got really thrown off and are wanting to hit your reset button, join one of my Virtual Essential Cleanse classes! Questions, concerns or want to know if a cleanse is a right fit for you, sign up for a free 15-minute Health Strategy Session!

How to Cleanse Effectively without Starving Yourself!

2011-07-06T11:11:00.000-07:00

When I talk to people about cleansing, one of their biggest fears is that they are going to be hungry all the time and won't be able to eat. While there are cleanses that have very restricted diets, or involve only liquids or intense fasts, I find that this approach is often too extreme for most people who want to continue working and living their daily lives (as opposed to being sequestered at a healing spa somewhere). More importantly, this approach may not be conducive to actually getting the toxins out of the body in a safe and effective manner. It is a common myth that you must suffer to detoxify.

The reality is that the body, specifically the liver, needs specific vitamin, amino acid and mineral co-factors in order to package up the toxins and get them out of the body. When we decrease caloric intake, the body will start to breakdown fat, and release toxins into the system. If we don't have all the systems that eliminate toxins well supported, then the toxins can actually recirculate around the body and cause more damage. Not good. So we need good nutrients in order to effectively detox.

Secondly, for most of us, our systems are under chronic stress. Emotional stress, finances, poor food choices and eating while at our desks or driving, the endless to-do list- all of these contribute to our body's total stress load. To restore health and balance in the system, we need to decrease our stressors. Drastically cutting calories, or eating infrequently can increase stress on the body's blood sugar regulation systems- often resulting in uncomfortable symptoms like irritability, headaches, and feeling spacey and tired. Again, not good. So you need to make sure that your body has regular intake of calories during a cleanse to decrease stress on our already-stressed-out systems.

So eating specific, cleanse friendly foods regularly throughout a cleanse or detox program is not only ok to do, but can help facilitate the the detox process.

When looking at a cleanse-friendly diet, there are a few key features:

1) Anti-inflammatory Diet. This means that most common food allergens and irritants-like wheat, dairy, sugar, eggs, soy and caffeine- have been eliminated. The result is decreased inflammation in the body. I have an example of an anti-inflammatory diet on my website. In the initial stages, this may include some animal protein, but eventually it should become vegan during cleanse.

2) Foods that specifically support the body's healing and detox processes. Examples are:Cruciferous veggies like broccoli and kale, radishes, beets, ginger, garlic, turmeric, seaweeds and algae, like spirulina, sprouts, cilantro, wheat grass, green juices and soups, and high anti-oxidant superfoods like goji and acai berries, and fermented foods like sauerkraut.

3) Protein- it is important to have some form of protein during a cleanse. Many veggie based foods contain good amounts of protein- like hemp seeds and other nuts and seeds, sea veggies and beans and grains like quinoa. As I mentioned, certain amino acids are required for the liver to detoxify properly. If you embark on a cleanse that does not include protein for more than a few days, your body will start to breakdown muscle to liberate amino acids for the liver to use.

4) Fiber-you will automatically be getting fiber rich foods if you increase veggies and legumes, but other high fiber foods like chia seeds can be great additions. Fiber is essential in a cleanse, because it not only helps you feel more full and keep the bowels moving, but helps to bind up toxins in the colon so they can be eliminated, rather than recirculated in the body.

So if your cleanse diet excludes common food allergens and inflammatory foods and includes detox supporting foods, protein and fiber, you will not only get all of the great benefits of a cleanse- like weight loss, increased energy, improved digestion and sleep, better mood, clear thinking and decreased allergy symptoms to name a few- but you will also minimize the potential cleanse reactions.

Hope this helps eliminate some of your fears around cleansing and encourages you to get out there and take the next big step to move you forward in becoming the super healthy human that you deserve to be! Please comment below and let me know about your experiences with cleanse diets.

If you want more support, recipes and specific cleanse guidance- my virtual Essential Cleanse happens about every 6 weeks and the next one is starting on July 12th. You can register and find out more info here.

If you have specific cleanse questions or concerns and want to know if a cleanse is right for you, you can sign up for a free brief Cleanse Strategy session with me and I'll give you the best info I have to help you!

GHF Video #15: Yo GABA GABA

2011-06-29T12:35:00.000-07:00

Stressed out? Anxious? Ready for a calm clear mind? Learn about the brain neurotransmitters that help calm us down and some powerful natural formulas that can help.

GHF Video#14: Go Pagan

2011-06-29T12:30:00.000-07:00

Celebrate the Summer Solstice and your connection to nature. We are human animals after all!

GHF Video#13:Commitment

2011-06-29T12:29:00.000-07:00

What magic can happen when you commit whole-heartedly to something?

GHF Video#12- Raw Chocolate Fondue

2011-06-20T15:31:00.000-07:00

A healthier twist on an old party favorite- chocolate fondue. Here we use all raw ingredients, including raw cacao so we get our magnesium in. A great simple dessert to wow your friends and liven up a party! Have fun!

GHF Video# 11-Hooping!!!

2011-06-20T15:30:00.000-07:00

Hula Hooping is quintessential good healthy fun- gets you in shape and helps with weight loss, massages your abdominal organs, is sexy, super playful and in my case, a little silly. Thanks to Deby Dai ( www.debydai.com) and Iris Bieri ( www.myhometemple.com).

GHF Video#10-Breakfast Power Smoothie

2011-06-20T15:29:00.002-07:00

This is a great way to pack a bunch of nutrients into a meal. I have this for breakfast about 4-5x/week. Yum! On the days that I don't do a smoothie, I make sure to take a multivitamin and liver detox support nutrient. This helps me stay healthy in a toxic world.

All products mentioned are available at www.drcory.com/natural-pharmacy.

GHF: Video #9 Hair Tattoo

2011-06-20T15:29:00.001-07:00

Doing something bold and radical is Good Healthy Fun!!! As Goethe said "Boldness has genius, power and magic in it." Here I share the transformative experience I had at Lightning in a Bottle Festival in Southern California. It is super fun to change it up for a bit!

GHF Video #8-The Raw Soup that Can Change Your Life!

2011-06-20T15:26:00.000-07:00

This soup is a quick amazing way to get a ton of tasty vegetables into your diet everyday for energy and radiance. You won't believe how good it tastes- in fact you will start to crave it because it makes you feel outta sight.

If you make one of these everyday, or a least a quart every other day, you will alkalize your system. Which is great news if you want to detox, lose weight, have more energy, stronger bones, clear thinking, etc, etc, etc...

GHF Video#7:The 3 Magic Ingredients that Make Any Vegetable Taste Good!

2011-06-08T00:52:00.000-07:00

My 3 favorite standby's that make any veggies taste yummy. Try this on asparagus, beets and any greens like chard, spinach and kale.

GHF Video#6: High Kick and Body Roll Therapy

2011-06-08T00:48:00.000-07:00

Have some fun with this one- we did!!!

GHF Video#5: The Secret Healing Power of Your Shower!

2011-06-08T00:41:00.000-07:00

Let the fun begin! I love hydrotherapy. Use this tip daily to up your vitality ante!

GHF Video#4: Aahhh la Nature

2011-06-05T01:51:00.000-07:00

Rain and Shine! Me and my pup Milo making the best out of a rainy day!

Enjoy in health and fun!

Dr Cory

GHF Video#3: Awesome Soup for Colds and Flus

2011-06-05T01:46:00.000-07:00

This soup is a potent powerhouse of bug busters and immune supporters. It is a concentrate, so feel free to add another quart of water if you want to add more veggies. You can also use a little salt and lemon to taste.

Feel Better!

Dr Cory

ps- please ignore my hair- not sure what was going on there!

GHF Video#2: Top 5 Foods to Avoid when Sick (one will surprise you!!!)

2011-06-05T01:01:00.000-07:00

Continuing with the theme of pointers to help you recover from colds and flus more rapidly...

I am embedding the youtube version. The audio is a little out of synch, as I am still working out some glitches, but it is short and informative so enjoy it!

In health and fun!

Dr Cory

GHF Video#1: How I Stave off Strep Throat

2011-06-05T00:51:00.000-07:00

Nothing like being sick the first day of a health project!!!

I rarely get sick, but it does happen on occasion. I view it at exercise for the immune system. A little cold/flu here and there is ok- you just don't want it to turn into something nasty- like a sinus infection, bronchitis or pneumonia. That is why I am a big fan of having good natural cold and flu remedies in the medicine cabinet- so you have them on hand the minute you need them!

So here you go- keep this one for future reference!

30 Good Healthy Fun Videos in 30 Days!

2011-06-05T00:46:00.000-07:00

Greetings!!! I have taken on a challenge, along with some fellow Holistic Health Practitioner Colleagues, to make 30 videos in 30 days.

I am taking this on a big creative adventure- the videos are going to be raw, they are going to be about all things good, healthy and fun. I hope that you find them helpful and informative and perhaps get you inspired to play more in your daily life.

Please let me know if there are particular topics you would like to learn more about, and how you like the videos!

I am also open to technical suggestion and tips, and especially if anyone feels inspired to help a doctor sister out with their professional expertise!

In health and fun,

Dr Cory

50 Ways to LOVE Your Liver!

2011-04-25T13:57:00.000-07:00

Our livers perform and co-ordinate so many critical functions in the body that it is actually referred to as the general in Chinese medicine. They are responsible for making hormones, regulating cholesterol, influencing thyroid function, supporting a healthy immune response, storing fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamin A and E, balancing blood sugar, making bile, and detoxifying every toxin that comes into our body so it can be packaged up and eliminated from the body. If it gets bogged down, we get bogged down. Spring is the optimal time to support the liver, so hear are some simple ways to support your liver's functioning, decrease your toxic load and give it the nutrients it needs to do its job!

I was just going to do 10, but then I got on a roll....so here are the 50 ways...

Eat Cruciferous Veggies like Broccoli, Cauliflower, Cabbage, and Brussel Sprouts
Slip in extra fiber like Flaxseeds, chia seeds or rice bran
Eat: Pumpkin Seeds
Turnips
Radishes
Pomegranates
Sesame seeds and tahini
Make some Broccoli Sprouts and eat them!
Drink:Green Tea
Oolong tea
Rooibos tea
Use Burdock root in soups or julienned in salads
Eat or drink Ginger
Increase bitter greens- like dandelion greens, beet greens, arugula, that weird scratchy green stuff
Drink Green Juices- with kale, cucumber, parsley, lemon
Eat Beets and Beet greens (see recipe below!)
Do a Castor Oil Pack
Make sure you are eliminating daily
Cook with Turmeric
Increase onions and garlic- sulfur helps with detox
Sweat daily to enhnace toxin elimination
Chia seeds- 2 tbsp/day to help bind up the toxins in your gut.
Eat organic whole foods
Eliminate artificial colors, flavors, additives and preservatives
Drink a protein shake daily with liver support nutrients
Talk to a licensed naturopathic doctor about finding some natural alternatives for pharmaceutical medications you may be taking
Use non-toxic cleaning products
Do a comprehensive Essential Cleanse!
Take a break from alcohol and recreational substances
Take a combo herb formula with ingredients like: burdock, yellow dock, dandelion root, oregon grape root, licorice, chelidonium, boldo leaf, milk thistle
Consider doing a liver-gallbladder flush
Take a supplement with detox nutrient co-factors like glutamine, glutathione, MSM, magnesium, b-vitamins and n-acetyl cysteine
Take a break from coffee. Substitute the teas above
Cut out sugar- use only small amounts of raw honey, stevia, agave or coconut nectar
Even more greens!
Wheat grass daily
Add sea veggies to bind up toxins and decrease the burden on you liver
Take a green supplement with Blue green algae, spirulina and chlorella
Avoid spicy foods which can agitate the liver fire
Find healthy outlets for anger instead of storing it. Hit that proverbial pillow!
Abdominal massage, like Chi Neit Sang
See a chiropractor to make sure all there is no blockage of nerve signal from your spine to your liver
Take extra magnesium. I like Calm. You can find it at the health food store.
Did I mention doing an Essential Cleanse?
Consider a hepatic detox profile (kits available through our office ) to make sure your liver is detoxifying optimally
Avoid liver damaging non-steroidal anti-inflammatories like Tylenol and Ibuprofen. Talk to your local ND on the best options for you.
Talk to a naturopathic doctor about helping you find alternatives to cholesterol lowering drugs which actually harm your liver in the long run
Use natural body care products-- no toxic synthetic fragrances!
Laugh hard and often!
Practice gratitude for this amazing body of yours daily!

Radiation Damage Prevention Recommendations

2011-03-17T17:10:00.000-07:00

While there is a lot of speculation about whether or not we here on the west coast will be exposed to radiation as a result of the Fukushima nuclear reactor emergency, many people are wanting to do whatever they can do be prepared for the possibility and would like some clear guidelines.

My understanding is that there are two radioactive isotopes, Iodine 131 and Cesium 137 potentially being released in the radiation dust. Radioactive Iodine has a short active life and concentrates in the thyroid gland, and can cause thyroid dysfunction and thyroid cancer.

The most common medical recommendation is taking potassium iodine. Proper levels of iodide block the receptors on the thyroid so the radioactive iodine can't bind to it; taking iodine has been proven to prevent thyroid cancers caused by radiation exposure but it will not reduce your risk of all cancers and all side effects of radiation exposure. Iodine is excreted and recycled through the body in 24-48h cycles so it is important that you have good iodine stores in your body before the radiation comes to the west coast. So now is the time to optimize your body’s mineral stores and increase low dose and food forms of iodine.

Cesium 137 can remain active for 30 years or longer and can be stored in the muscle, liver and red blood cells. Damage from this toxin can be minimized by consuming substances that bind toxins, like sodium alginate, and taking important antioxidants that reduce free-radical injury.

My radiation prevention preferences are listed as follows. Please note, these are simply recommendations and not a replacement for consulting with your physician.

1. Eat Seaweed

As a Naturopathic Doctor, I advocate using the least invasive and most natural therapies first. Taking iodine supplementation alone can cause a disturbance in thyroid functioning for about 15% of the population; eating FOODS with iodine will not do this.

I recently posted a list of foods that are helpful for preventing radiation damage. Best to start eating them now!

Incorporate seaweed into your diet as much- kelp, nori (veggie sushi rolls!), bladderwrack, wakame, dulse and other sea vegetables. Nori is available in seasoned sheets for easy snacking and are even in certain varieties of crackers. You can also get dulse flakes with sesame to sprinkle on your food.

The U.S. Atomic Energy Commission recommends that adults (150lbs) consume two to three ounces (wet weight) of sea vegetables per week, or two tablespoons daily to protect from radiation toxicity. This should be increased fourfold during or after direct exposure to radiation. Recommendations should be adjusted appropriately for weight in treating children.

Email us your favorite sea veggie recipes at info@drcory.com and I will send you 5 of my favorite raw recipes and feature yours in my next newsletter! Help thy neighbor!

2) Iodine

Prevention: If seaweed is not your thing, and you wish to take potassium iodine I have a very limited supply of liquid iodine (low dose150mcg). I suggest taking 5-10 drops/day. If there is full direct exposure, you can take the entire bottle at once. Do not take more than 10mg of iodine/day preventatively without consulting your physician.

Full direct exposure: The current recommendation is: 130mg dose a day for adults,

65mg day for kids aged 3-12

This is ONLY appropriate before or during direct exposure to radiation in the event of an accident- not for prophylactic or maintenance use. These doses are unsafe for thyroid health under normal conditions. Please dose carefully and make sure you are not allergic to iodine!

I currently have a very limited supply of iodine on hand. Orders will be filled on a first come first served basis.

3. Nutrients that Bind Toxins

Certain substances are great at binding toxins-including radioactive ones! Other nutrients help neutralize their toxic impact. Pick a formula that contains ingredients like sodium alginate, vitamin C, chlorella, MSM and selenium. Take the recommended dose preventatively, and increase that dose significantly (3-4x) if exposed to radiation.

4. Other Beneficial Therapies

Epsom salt baths can help keep your body balanced after general radiation exposure. Add 2 lbs of Epsom salts, or dissolve 1 pound of sea salt or rock salt and 1 pound of baking soda in a hot bath — as hot as can be tolerated . Soak in the water until the bath becomes cool. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes. Adding bentonite clay or baking soda to the bath adds to the radiation detoxification effect.

4. Energy Medicine

For you sensitive one (yes, I know you are out there!) who need more gentle support, consider FES Yarrow Environmental Solution or a homeopathic radiation formula. My suppliers are all out of stock, but we will let you know as they become available

We will try to keep you updated with further developments as to the amount of radiation reaching the US and what you can do to protect yourself.

For now, take care of your health and let’s send lots of healing thoughts to Japan and the Earth.

Anti-Radiation Diet Recommendations

2011-03-16T21:25:00.000-07:00

Not to go into scary freak-out-mode about the possible radiation coming our way, officials say no, but I am personally taking measures to protect myself. This is an excerpt from an article on a very useful website with lots of great recommendations on how to stay safe in a world with increasing levels of radiation.

Enjoy- these are foods that are good for you anyways and it is so important for us to be mineralizing our bodies right now.

PROTECTIVE FOODS

1. Chlorophyll-containing foods: barley grass and chlorella.

Chlorophyll closely resembles human blood and is used to cleanse, detoxify, purify and heal many conditions. It retards bacterial growth, detoxifies heavy metals from the body, increases wound healing, detoxifies the liver and other organs, deodorizes the body, removes putrefactive bacteria from the colon, aids healing of 11 types of skin diseases, relieves ulcers, gastritis, pancreatitis and other inflammatory conditions, helps heal gum diseases, and inhibits radiation and the metabolic activation of many carcinogens. Many studies have reported the protective effects of chlorophyll on irradiated animals.

There are pure chlorophyll supplements available if you don’t like to eat grass or algae. Better yet, try one of the following whole foods, all which are excellent sources of chlorophyll and other essential nutrients.

Barley (wheat) grass is a totally balanced food. It contains all of the nutrients required for life; vitamins, minerals, enzymes and other proteins (amino acids), essential fatty acids and chlorophyll. Barley grass has thousands of living enzymes (a special protein). Enzymes are nature’s biological catalysts that initiate all the chemical transformations in the body. Over 3,000 enzymes have been identified. They are required for every transformation in the body - digestion, cell respiration, bodily movements, thinking processes, detoxification, cancer control, fat, protein and carbohydrate metabolism, etc.
The normal daily amount of barley grass is 1-3 teaspoons (1 tsp = 2 grams). If you choose wheat grass (juice), start with one ounce daily and gradually increase to four or six ounces.
Chlorella, a green freshwater micro-algae which has even more chlorophyll than barley (wheat) grass plus 55-65% protein with 19 amino acids including all the essential ones. It’s an excellent source of beta-carotene, vitamins B-l, B-2, B-3, B-6, B-12, pantothenic acid, folic acid, biotin, PABA, inositol and vitamin C. Vitamin B-12 is especially important for vegetarians who may be deficient in this vitamin. Chlorella has more B-12 than liver. It also contains important minerals - iron, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, zinc, potassium, sulphur, iodine and trace amounts of manganese, sodium and chlorine.
Chlorella comes in a small pill form which may be more palatable to some people.

2. Miso

Made from naturally fermented soybeans, rice or barley, miso is a superior source of usable whole protein, aids digestion and assimilation, is low in fats, has a wonderful salty flavor, promotes health and helps neutralize environmental pollution including radiation. The reason for Miso’s protectiveness is not really known. It was observed that the Japanese who ate miso everyday did not die from radiation-induced cancer after the bombs at Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The observed effect of miso as a cancerostatic agent was further confirmed in a recent study in Japan.

3. Fermented (Lactic acid) vegetables and juices

Lactic acid fermented foods possess medicinal properties and can in the biological treatment of many conditions, including cancer, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, kidney and liver diseases, and digestive disorders. Sources include sauerkraut, beets, carrots, green and red pepper, beet tops, Swiss chard and celery.

4. Cultured (fermented) milk products: yogurt, kefir, buttermilk, unprocessed cheese.

Longevity studies indicate that groups of people who use cultured milk products in their diet live longer. Real yogurt is made from fresh whole (unhomogenized) milk with billions of living friendly bacteria, a minimum of honey or fructose, and perhaps some real fruit.

Yogurt, kefir and other fermented milks contain an unidentified substance that lowers cholesterol. Yogurt is an excellent substitute for ice cream in milk shakes and smoothies. Use it on potatoes instead of sour cream. Make your own salad dressings with yogurt, honey, vinegar and spices.

These products also contain friendly bacteria, such as lactobacillus acidophilus and other strains perform valuable duties in your colon. These bacteria colonize the colon and evict unfriendly, dangerous bacteria and other organisms from your colon. These bacteria also synthesize germ-destroying antibodies in your colon.

5. Cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, turnips, cabbage, spinach, cauliflower, and greens such as kale)

This family of vegetables contain substances that inhibit breast and colon cancer cell growth. Cabbage and other cruciferous vegetables also contain dithiolthiones, a non-toxic group of compounds that have antioxidant, anticancer and anti-radiation properties.

Sources include dark, leafy vegetables (broccoli, spinach, kale, Swiss chard, romaine, endive, chicory, escarole, watercress, collard, mustard and dandelion greens), dark yellow and orange vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, yams, pumpkins, winter squash) and fruits (cantaloupe, apricots, peaches, papayas and watermelon).

6. High-fiber foods: whole grains, fruits and vegetables

Epidemiological data suggests that a high-fiber diet protects against large bowel cancer perhaps for several reasons. It dilutes bowel carcinogens, decreases colon transit time and changes the composition and metabolic activity of the fecal flora and certain carcinogenic substances in the colon. That’s why it’s healthier to eat whole grains containing the bran and the fiber, and whole fruits and vegetables instead of their processed, partitioned counterparts.

7. Foods containing a natural Vitamin A

Such as lima beans, potatoes, yams, sweet potatoes, asparagus, tomatoes, onions and spinach), fruits (mango, grapes, avocado, pears, oranges plus the white under the peel and pulps, apples plus seeds and peeling, strawberries), all unsprouted seeds (especially sunflower, sesame and pumpkin), all nuts (especially almonds and cashews), leafy green vegetables, carob and teas from fruit blossoms and leaves (peach flowers, strawberry leaves, cherry flowers, apple blossoms), and all grasses, such as wheat and barley.

The vitamin A analog, abscisic acid, is found in large amounts in the grasses, seeds, nuts, legumes, mature leaves, and fruits listed above and in the apricot pit. The body makes abscisic acid in vivo (inside) from raw carrot juice and raw liver.

8. Sesame seeds – raw, ground (tahini) or in capsules.

Sesame seed oil contains a substance called Complex T, the primary effect of which is to increase blood platelets - a must for fighting infection.

If you don’t like pills, just eat raw sesame seeds or tahini. In addition to Complex T, sesame seeds contain valuable essential fatty acids (EFAs) that are important workers in the immune system.

9. Sea vegetables and their products

Sodium alginate, a nonnutritious extract from Pacific kelp used to bind and detoxify heavy metals from the body (such as lead, mercury, cadmium, etc.), and agar, used as a thickening agent instead of gelatin or corn starch, will protect the human body from radiation effects. They also reduce absorption of strontium 90 by 50-80%.

Kelp and dulse, excellent natural sources of iodine, help protect against radioactive iodine, found mostly in milk. When the diet is adequately supplied with organic iodine (as in kelp), radioiodine is not as readily absorbed by the thyroid or the ovaries. Kelp contains 150,000 mcg of iodine per 100 grams (32 ounces). The RDA of iodine is 150-200 mcg. A reasonable daily dose of kelp would be 1-2 teaspoons of granules or 5-10 tablets. Other high iodine foods include: seafood, beef liver, pineapple, eggs and whole wheat.

Note: Taking kelp as a source of iodine is much safer than drinking iodine or eating potassium iodide, which can be especially dangerous for pregnant women and can cause allergic reactions. Iodine (inorganic) is toxic because of its tendency to combine with protein. That’s how it destroys bacteria (a protein). When you put iodine into your mouth, it combines with the protein there and in your stomach or wherever it goes. This causes irritation or worse. Also, sudden large doses of iodine in humans with a normal thyroid may reduce the synthesis of thyroid hormone.

10. Bee and flower pollen

Pollen is an excellent food containing all essential amino acids, vitamins A, D, E, K, C, bioflavanoids, B-complex (especially pantothenic acid and B-3), and 27 minerals.

Research has proven pollen to be beneficial in treating several diseases. Dr. Emil Chauvin (French Academy of Science) discovered bee pollen was beneficial in treating anemia (increases red blood cells and hemoglobin), chronic prostatis, constipation, flatulence and colon infections, especially diarrhea.

Dr. Peter Hernuss at the University of Vienna’s Women’s Clinic conducted a study involving 25 women with inoperative uterine cancer. All received radiotherapy. The 15 who took 20 grams of bee pollen three times a day tolerated the radiation much better than the ten who took no bee pollen.

11. Essential fatty acids, GLA and EPA

EFAs are essential for proper functioning of the immune system and protects against cancer. Food sources include flax seed oil, evening primrose oil and certain fish, particularly salmon.

SPECIAL TEAS

1. Pau d’arco (also called ipe roxo, la pacho, taheebo, and bowstick tea). An herbal tea from the inner bark of two trees that grow in the warmer part of South America (Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia, etc.). Many South American doctors use a therapeutic tea from this herb to relieve pain and treat many conditions including leukemia and other forms of cancer, infections including yeast and other fungal conditions, skin rashes, and many other ailments.

Dr. Theodoro Meyer of the Universidad Nacional of Tucuman, a province of the Argentine Andes, studied taheebo’s chemical composition and found a substance called xyloidin, an antibiotic capable of killing viruses. Dr. Prats Ruiz, M.D., of Concepcion, a city in Tucuman province, reported blood profiles of patients with leukemia before and after treatment with taheebo to document the efficacy of taheebo in treatment of certain cancers. Clinical details are provided by Professor Carlos Hugo Burgstaller in his book on the medicinal flora of Paraguay and Argentina, LA VUELTA A LOS VEGETALES (Buenos Aires, 1968).

This tea was widely available in many health food stores until news of its anticancer claims became widespread. There is now an FDA effort to prohibit its sale in the United States. It has already been taken off the Canadian market to be “reclassified as an over-the-counter drug” because of the healing claims made for it. FDA approval of a drug for a specific use takes 8-12 years and costs about $56 million (1982 estimate).

2. SAFFRON TEA. Contains colchicine, a substance that has been used in the treatment of leukemia. It also lowers uric acid (high in those who have a tendency towards gout and/or cardiovascular disease).

3. THYME TEA. Often used as a remedy after x-rays. Just steep one tablespoon of thyme per pint of hot water for 20 minutes, then cool and strain.

4. BLACK TEA (CONTAINING TANNIN) AND HONEY. Used for radiation protection in China. Green tea is also great dor supporting detoxification pathways in the body.

Should YOU Eat Gluten?

2011-03-10T12:21:00.000-08:00

Wondering if you need to break up with gluten and start seeing other grains? Well… I think it’s important to take a good hard look at your relationship and evaluate if it is really is a healthy one.

It is estimated that one third of Americans are sensitive to gluten, making hidden food allergies essentially an epidemic. Making the connection between what we eat and how we feel is not only empowering, but one of the MOST important things we can do for our health. The major increase in gluten-free products in our stores-it is the fastest growing sector of the natural food industry (though not all gluten free products are necessarily healthy, but that is another topic!) is a reflection of this growing concern and that people are starting to pay attention.

And the more we learn about food reactions, the more we see that it is not just about digestive symptoms, hives or anaphylaxis anymore. So let’s talk about what gluten is, what the symptoms of gluten intolerance are, how to test for it and what to do about it.

Its not you, it’s me, or is it?

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, kamut . Oats are often contaminated with gluten from being around these other grains. It is in breads, pastas, wraps, and mock meats like seitan and mock duck at Asian restaurants.

Gluten is something you can be intolerant to, allergic to, or sensitive to. For the purposes of this article, these terms will be essentially interchangeable. I will discuss the differences in a later post. Some people have a severe intolerance to gluten, known as celiac disease. People with celiac are at significant risk for increased heart disease, autoimmune disease and cancer. But you do not have to have full-blown celiac disease to have serious complications from eating gluten, and 99% of people who have an issue with gluten don’t even know it.

With over a 400 fold increase in the diagnosis of celiac disease in the last 50 years, one has to wonder- is it us humans or the wheat? I believe it is both.

One the its not you it’s me side: We are becoming more aware of the impact that gluten has on our health, testing for intolerance more, especially in Europe and Canada. One third of people of European descent carry the gene for celiac disease. Gluten is a staple, that is often consumed several times a day.

On the its not me it’s you side: American gluten has been hybridized to contain very high levels of gluten. There is question as to whether genetically modifying the crop and the intensive use of pesticides and chemicals to it is enhancing its reactivity. Currently, there are only 2 main suppliers of wheat in the US, and the grain stores are treated regularly with chemicals to prevent pest infestation. Are we reacting to the wheat or the chemicals. Baking with heirloom, organically grown wheat from small farms (like Blue Bird Grains) may be decrease the health impact in some.

What are the symptoms of gluten intolerance?

It was formerly thought that celiac was a disease primarily found in kids who had diarrhea, low immune function and failure to thrive. While that is a textbook case, real life shows us a much wider spectrum of conditions associated with gluten sensitivity and the resulting inflammation that it can cause throughout the body. It can be the single cause, or major contributor behind many different diseases.

It is linked to most autoimmune conditions, like multiple sclerosis, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. It can be connected to cancer, fatigue, anemia, hypothyroidism, mouth ulcers, migraines, Irritable bowel syndrome, and many neurological problems like depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, dementia, and epilepsy.

Here is a story shared by one of my patients about her unexpected gluten related health issue.

“It has been eleven months since doing your virtual cleanse in January 2010 and I wanted to share with you how it has transformed my health and life. I had been pretty ill with congestion for several years and though it wasn't everyday that I had symptoms, it was very regularly that I was sick, coughing, spitting up phlegm, hoarse and dealing with a raw throat. Even during the cleanse I still had these symptoms but with the turn in my attention to diet and detoxing most of what ailed me has stopped over time.

By the end of the cleanse I was more energetic and sleeping better than I had in years. Integrating each food back into my diet revealed that many things I ate were not really agreeing with me, I had a sensitivity to them. However, wheat aka gluten was the real culprit. I had thought that it was dairy that challenged my allergies and sinuses but really I have learned how gluten immediately makes me congested and feeling like I am getting the flu. My digestion also loves not having to process the stuff! No longer is my stomach gassy, bloated or uncomfortable. I am regular and functioning with such increased efficiency that I have kept the 10 pounds I initially lost from the cleanse completely off. In the last year I have had only one cold as opposed to always being sick. It is incredible and I thank you for putting me on a healthier and vital path!

I look forward to going deeper and cleaner.

Many thanks
Ilaan Egeland Mazzini, performer and Mom

Very cool. So grateful to her commitment to her health and that she shared this truly health transforming experience with me!

How do you test for gluten intolerance or sensitivity?

Standard Laboratory tests

Are available through Labcorp or Quest and your primary care doc or ND can order for you. There are do-it-yourself test kits available on my website as well. TGG (tissue transglutaminase) is usually the main marker for celiac, differentiating it from a wheat/gluten allergy Testing can include any/all of the following:

IgA anti-gliadin antibodies
IgG anti-gliadin antibodies
IgA anti-endomysial antibodies
Tissue transglutaminase antibody (IgA and IgG in questionable cases)
Total IgA antibodies
HLA DQ2 and DQ8 genotyping for celiac disease. This is used in families to detect genetic susceptibility.

Intestinal biopsy used to be the definitive test for celiac, but generally if anti-bodies are elevated at all, it is highly probably that celiac is present, a biopsy is unnecessary and you will benefit from avoiding gluten.

Your Body as A Lab

A elimination/food re-introduction diet is the best way to test for intolerances and sensitivities. You must avoid 100% of all gluten containing foods in order for this to be truly accurate. Go to www.celiac.com for a complete list of gluten containing foods. After 2-4 weeks, re-introduce the foods and see how you feel.

My 2-week Essential Cleanse program is a great way to jumpstart this process.

Does this mean you need to avoid wheat forever and you can never eat it again?

If you have celiac, you should not eat wheat, at all. People can have varying degrees of reactivity. Some people can not even be in a room where there is wheat flour being used. For others it is not as severe.

If you are allergic or sensitive to wheat, you should definitely avoid it for at least 3-6 months to allow your level of inflammation to decrease in your body. This will allow the immune system to stabilize so you can have wheat and gluten on occasion.

There is also the option of digestive enzymes, like Similase GFCF, to help your body metabolize wheat. I recommend this to all of my wheat sensitive patients. While traveling in France, I knew I was going to indulge in zee wonderful croissants, so I was sure to take these enzymes every day or when I knew I was going to make a dietary indiscretion.

Rotate your foods and choose from a wide variety of local and seasonal fruits, vegetables and grains. This will help you have a long and harmonious relationship with your foods and your body.

10 Tips and Truths about Mercury Toxicity

2010-02-20T09:15:00.000-08:00

This is a great summary list from a blog, written by Mark Hyman, MD, that I came across in the Huffington Post. It is a brief and concise download regarding the hazards of mercury, where it comes from and how to test for it.
The key points that I really want you to get is that

Get your amalgams removed by a dentist who is aware of the hazards of mercury
Blood testing is not accurate for testing for assessing mercury levels in the body.

For a great resource on safe fish to eat, go to the NRDC.org website. They have a great wallet card available to help you make healthier choices.More info to come on how to safely eliminate mercury from the body.

10 Truths and Tips about Mercury Toxicity

1. Industrial exposure to mercury is significant and mostly comes from coal burning (220 million pounds a year) and chlor-alkali plants.

2. The main ways that humans are exposed to mercury are from contaminated fish and dental amalgams or silver fillings.

3. Mercury can affect nearly all your organs, especially the brain, heart, kidneys, and gut.

4. Many chronic diseases may be caused or worsened by mercury, including neurologic disease, ADHD, autism, heart disease, autoimmune diseases, and more.

5. Some of us are genetically better adapted to detoxify mercury than others, leading to variable effects within the population.

6. You should reduce your exposure by avoiding large ocean fish (like tuna, swordfish, shark, and tilefish) and river fish. Eat only small wild fish. If it fits in your pan, it is probably okay.

7. Blood tests are relatively worthless for analyzing mercury toxicity, unless you have had a significant recent exposure or eat a lot of sushi or tuna.

8. Hair tests only check for mercury from fish, not from fillings so they only give you a partial picture.

9. The only way to find out your total body load of mercury is to take a medication with sulfur molecules that binds to the mercury like fly paper. This is called DMSA or DMPS.

This test should ONLY be done by a trained physician and involves taking one dose of this medicine, followed by a 6- or 24-hour urine collection to see how much comes out. (In my opinion, the most reliable testing is done by www.doctorsdata.com).

10. If you are toxic and sick, you may consider addressing your dental health by seeing a biological dentist who can safely help you deal with mercury in your mouth.

Going to see a conventional dentist who drills out your fillings without any precautions or protection can lead to serious health consequences. I strongly advise against it. However, amalgam filling removal CAN be done safely and effectively done by a dentist trained in the correct techniques.

Read the whole post here.

Flu Vaccine-Just say NO!

2009-10-19T21:40:00.000-07:00

Well, Obama just declared the H1N1 "Swine" flu a national emergency. Oy. So I really want to chime in on why I am not a fan of the Swine Flu vaccine or the standard Influenza (flu) vaccine again. My next post will have some prevention and treatment alternatives.

There was a great article from Frank Lippman, MD in the Huffington Post, so points 1-4 are reposted from his article, Swine Flu, What To Do?

1) At this stage, for the most part the swine flu seems benign.

Over a million people in the US have already come down with swine flu, many of them without even knowing that they had it. The vast majority of people who get the swine flu recover after a week or so of high fever, aches, and respiratory distress. It's not pleasant, but except in rare circumstances, it is not fatal. Most people who've been infected by swine flu think so little of it, they believe they just had a really bad cold or a regular flu. So unless the swine flu evolves to a much more virulent form, there's no need for mass vaccination.

2) We don't know if the vaccine will be effective.

Vaccines are only useful against the specific viral strain that was available at the time of their manufacture. But influenza viruses mutate quickly, and as the WHO has already said, the real concern with H1N1 swine flu is that it will combine with seasonal flu in the Fall, creating a new strain that will of course be immune to all available vaccines.

3) We don't know if the vaccine is safe.

The FDA has authorized an expedited approval process for the swine flu vaccine but we don't know yet if it is safe. Even GlaxoSmithKline, one of the vaccine manufacturers has said, "The total population studied in clinical trials will be limited, due to the need to provide the vaccine to governments as quickly as possible. Additional studies will therefore be required and conducted after the vaccine is made available."

In other words, the only thing that is safe, is to say that no one knows. Since it's never been used before and they have not had time to conduct any sufficient human testing, by getting vaccinated you are being a human guinea pig.

4) Vaccine manufacturers have been insulated from liability by the government.

The Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sibelius has granted legal immunity not only to the makers of the 2 drugs being used to treat swine flu, Tamiflu and Relenza, but also to the swine flu vaccine makers, for damages due to their use against swine flu. By effectively manipulating the legal system, the Pharmaceutical Industry through their powerful lobbyists have acquired almost complete and total insulation from any liability for their vaccines and adjuvants, which are additives added to generate a stronger immune response. It is believed that it is these adjuvants which often cause the problems. The last time the government embarked on a major vaccine campaign against a new swine flu was in 1976. Thousands filed claims for side effects such as paralysis caused by the vaccine and a number of people died. I am sure that the researchers know more now than they did last time and no one can say for certain that bad things will happen again or that you will suffer dire consequences if you get vaccinated. But this time you have no legal recourse even though this vaccine involves new factors, which makes it therefore experimental and unpredictable.

By shielding the manufacturers from any responsibility for any harm caused, the pharmaceutical firms have no financial incentive to make the safest product. In fact, they have a negative incentive to test it for safety, because if they are aware of problems, then they could potentially be held liable for willful misconduct.

If you are more visual, here are some interesting videos.

5) The vaccine is a toxic crapshoot ( yes, that is a technical term)

According to the CDC, "Each year's influenza vaccine is made up of three strains of the virus, based on an educated guess of which viruses will be most active during the upcoming influenza season". So three strains out of thousands of influenza subtypes and strains. Often the vaccines do not match up with the strain that is going around.

And, what's in it besides the 3 strains? Here is a great comedic and fairly accurate explanation. What's in a Flu Shot?

6) Thimerisol- What is it? Didn't they stop using it?

Nope, both the influenza and multi-dose H1N1 vaccines contain Thimerisol. Thimerisol is an adjuvant that contains mercury amongst other toxic substances. Thimerisol acts not only as a preservative, but it's toxic nature actually helps to increase the production of anti-bodies to the virus. This is a great video where Robert Kennedy Jr. discusses the impact of Thimerisol on children. Older generations got a maximum of 20 vaccinations over a lifetime. Kids today get an average of 40 vaccinations, and they start at birth with thimerisol containing vaccines. They are receiving approximately 400x the FDA's approved safe amount of mercury. We know that mercury has been implicated in autism, learning disorders and immune dysfunction, just to name a few.

So there you go. I advise my patients to build up and strengthen their immune systems to prevent viral infections. More on that to come..

Swine Flu- What's the Big Dealio and What Can You Do?

2009-05-02T08:28:00.000-07:00

Ok. So I generally tend to shy away from anything that I consider media hype, big pharma propaganda and fear mongering, but people are really really getting worked up about this one, so given that I am a doctor and all, thought I would chime in with my two cents.

It is a flu people. Not cholera. Not the Bubonic Plague. While 30,000 people die every year from the regular flu, the only person in the US who has died from swine flu sadly was a 2-year old child from Mexico, who, according to the Texas Department of Health, had underlying health issues.

I am a little jaded as I see influenza as very treatable and manageable with natural medicine. And have serious concerns about flu vaccines, so its starts to feel like people are all going a little crazy.

According to Dr Mercola , the media's coverage is essentially "preparing you for draconian measures to combat a future pandemic as well as forcing you to accept the idea of mandatory vaccinations" Lovely. Did you know that there was a swine flu outbreak in 1976, where dozens died and hundreds were injured from the vaccine!!? I am more freaked out about this possibility than actually contracting the swine flu. But alas, no freaking out allowed because there would be some serious uproar before that happened. Besides, freaking out lowers your immune function.

So what can you do to protect yourself and your family?

1. Wash your hands frequently.

2. Avoid touching your nose, mouth, or eyes, as this is how viral particles are spread.

3. Load up on raw green vegetables and drink green juice, wheatgrass, and sprouts, which offer your body the highest energy foods to help alkalinize your body and resist infection. Use a green powder superfood if you like.

4. Improve your immune integrity by supplementing with Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Echinacea, Elderberry and Zinc. Take Muccocinum, a homeopathic flu preventative. I recommend 1 tablet/week. Easy. I am happy to hook you up with any of these products. (In fact, if you appreciate the info that I give you, please support my biz!)

5. If you tend to have a weak immune system, or catch everything going around, then I recommend a formula called Multi Thymus Complete. It is the bomb. (Please note: it is not vegetarian)

6. Have your medicine cabinet stocked with remedies that will help with the flu. I like Muccocinum, Acute Immune Formula, Flu-Ease, and IM-Encaps .

7. Catch up on extra sleep.

8. Avoid or limit contact with people who are sick or might have been exposed to the flu.

9. Eliminate or cut down on sugar.

10. Give up alcohol and coffee for a while. These substances tax your liver and do you know that the liver plays an important role in immune function?

11. Engage in stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation, hiking, guided imagery, and creative endeavors.

10. Mix 1/4 tsp of baking soda in water and drink it once a day. This helps alkalinize the body, which helps it fight infection. Make sure you are drinking at least 8 cups of water/day minimum.

11. Don't panic. Stress reduces immune function, and there are so many supportive things you can do to protect yourself and stay healthy!

If you want some one on one support and advice, please contact me. I am available for phone consultations, at my office in San Francisco, and starting this week at the Fairfax Community Clinic. Also, all the products I mentioned are available, but not all are on the website. Again, contact me if you have any questions.

Consider getting screened or call me to make an appointment if you experience:
-fever
-cough
-body aches
-chills
-headache
-nausea/vomiting
-diarrhea

The CDC recommends you go to the emergency room if you experience:
-respiratory distress
-confusion
-severe dizziness
-chest pain
-dehydration

Remember, healthcare reform starts with you, but you gotta know what to do to...

Feel better!

Dr Cory

The Joy of Cleansing

2009-04-28T23:22:00.000-07:00

Ok, I have all my doctor-y reasons of why cleansing is good that I could prattle on about. You can actually read them on my website. But I thought I would offer you some compelling thoughts on cleansing by the funny, talented and healthy yoga instructor and SF Gate columnist Mark Morford . I find it quite refreshing and accurate. And, if it speaks to you, think about joining one of my upcoming cleanse classes!

From Morford's column Notes and Errata (which I always want to call Notes and Erratica for some odd reason) "The Great American Detox":

'Here's the thing: A detox done right invites a dramatic reexamination of your relationship to food and nourishment, as you can't help but suddenly notice food's insane prevalence in our culture, our obsession with everything from planning meals to restaurants to food advertising to how much just thinking about your next meal controls and dominates your day. For first-time cleansers, this always comes as nothing short of a revelation.

It doesn't stop there. When you begin to reintroduce foods into your body after a lengthy period away, all sorts of fascinating reactions can come up. Foods you thought you loved repulse you, heavily processed foods will taste like garbage, tasty addictions you thought you could never live without suddenly seem ridiculous and pointless and you may never touch them again.

Conversely, things you thought you hated will feel nourishing and alive. Whole foods will feel invigorating and right. The power food once had over your everyday life might shift and subside. If you really pay attention, you can, in short, actually rewire your body, upend your perspective and begin to see, maybe for the first time ever, the powerful forces at play in the culture and how they work to nudge and prod and slap you around, every single day.

Should you live in a permanent state of hardcore cleansing? Should you treat a serious detox as a silly fad diet with no actual understanding of the energies at play? Hell no. But after a lifetime of canned, prefab, overpampered crap you were told was food but is actually a subtle form of poison, understanding the difference can be like a dose of raw enlightenment.

The best part of all: Odds are very good you may never go back to your old, toxic ways.'

Yes-I! I love it. Truth with a capital T. So when you're ready, I am here to help you.

Dr C

PBS to Air Series on Naturopathic Medicine

2009-04-13T17:41:00.000-07:00

Very cool. Glad that naturopathic medicine is finally starting to get the recognition it deserves in really helping the American public lead happier and healthier lives. In case you all didn't know, this is my profession, my peeps. The more that you can spread the good word, the sooner insurance companies and Medicare will start covering ND's and the sooner we will have a healthier and more sane society.

Press Release: For Immediate Release

On April 8, 2009 the country’s first series on naturopathic medicine will air on southern California’s KOCE, the sixth-largest PBS station in the country. Produced by the award-winning American Health Journal in conjunction with the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP), the series will educate the public about the practices and philosophy of naturopathic medicine.

“The public is hungry for a system of health care that is patient-centered, wellness focused, cost-effective, and which uses natural remedies without side effects,” said Karen Howard, AANP’s Executive Director. “Naturopathic medicine is what the public wants and needs. We’re excited about this opportunity to educate the public about naturopathic medicine.”

The program will cover a broad range of topics, including the training and education of naturopathic physicians, environmental health and cancer, naturopathic approaches to chronic disease, family medicine, preventing heart disease and diabetes, mental health, allergies, and chronic pain.

The six-part series (with a seventh “best of” episode) will begin airing April 8, 2009.

Naturopathic physicians combine the wisdom of nature with the rigors of modern science. Steeped in traditional healing methods, principles and practices, naturopathic medicine focuses on holistic, proactive prevention and comprehensive diagnosis and treatment. Naturopathic medicine embraces the medical oath “first do no harm.”

By using protocols that minimize the risk of harm, naturopathic physicians help facilitate the body’s inherent ability to restore and maintain optimal health. It is the naturopathic physician’s role to identify and remove barriers to good health by helping to create a healing internal and external environment.

Currently, 15 states, the District of Columbia, and the United States territories of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands have licensing laws for naturopathic doctors. In these states, naturopathic doctors are required to graduate from a four-year, postgraduate naturopathic medical school and to pass an extensive postdoctoral board examination (NPLEX) in order to receive a license.

Please Repost this Press Release to Your Website or Newsletter

Taking about the Nice

2009-04-06T13:10:00.000-07:00

This is reprinted from the Itty Biz Blog . I just love this woman Naomi's no nonsense approach to biz and marketing. Lately I have been guilty of seeing things through my what isn't working goggles, so this was a great reminder to look through my what is working goggles.

Right now what is working is my newsletter, which is about to come out: go to my website drcory.com to sign up!

From Itty Biz:
Jack is at my mother’s and I am toasting hot cross buns. (Some people use their child free time to get work done or have sex. I use mine to eat wheat and dairy.)

I am standing in front of the toaster, waiting for the pop, and I’m drawn to the empty package. I read their little list of bun features and benefits, and then I come to this:

Less than 3% Fat!

I’m amused. Of course there’s less than 3% fat. It’s a bun, for Christ’s sake. It’s made from white flour, sugar, and raisins. I’d be pretty damn concerned if there was more than 3% fat.

And it hits me. This is what marketing is about. Talking about the nice things, talking less about the not-so-nice things. Let’s face it… hot cross buns will slowly kill you if you let them. They’re golden brown type 2 diabetes with a pretty little white X on the top and Easter bunnies on the packet.

So the bun people figured they wouldn’t mention that this shit will make your kid so hyper his head will spin off his neck and they would mention that there was lower fat.

Have you thought about your nice things lately? Or are you too busy worrying about your not-so-nice things?

Lungs+Forward Bend=Good

2009-03-07T16:35:00.000-08:00

I had a mild cough at one point during this winter. (Yes, I occasionally get sick from time to time) I am actually grateful for the immune system exercise. Keeps the troops in shape. The key word here, is "mild cough", ie not bronchitis, or pneumonia. Slowing down, eating well (more on this in the future) and having my trusty cough tincture and immune support formulas on hand is key to preventing the degeneration of a simple cold into something nasty.

So alas the other day in yoga, as I was in a standing forward bend, my friend and teacher extra-ordinnaire Scott Blossom mentioned this position was great for clearing out the lungs and helping them recover from winter infections. I could feel it as I took a few deep breathes, expanding my lungs and mid-back.

So now I am doing a few minutes in forward bend every morning. You don't have to have your head on your knees to get the benefit, just inhale and exhale slowly and deeply. Doing a simple posture like this regularly can be really helpful if you tend towards repeated chest/lung infections and asthma.

The more we can do to help our bodies out with out medicating, the better. I never cease to be amazed at the potency of practices that look so simple on the outside, yet have profound effects on the inside.

Good News for CA ND's

2009-03-07T15:52:00.000-08:00

Good News!

Governor Schwarzenegger signed the new budget, and although he made $600 million in further cuts, none of the additional cuts affect the Bureau of Naturopathic Medicine. Thank you for all of your support – in donating time and money, energizing your friends and patients and being responsive to our requests.

So for the time being, we are in the clear! There is another issue with the Department of Consumer Affairs that may arise in April, so I will keep you posted. Visit the California Naturopathic Doctor's Association to stay on top of the current situation.

Phew-that was crazy! Although I must admit that going to the state capitol to lobby with my colleagues was exciting and I actually enjoyed the taste of politics in my mouth. I never thought I would EVER say that. And, my bad ass mother was also super proud. It really drove home the message that we ND's truly are leading experts in natural medicine, and the only profession trained to really speak the language of both conventional and natural medicine.

Mad props going out to my profession!

Help Save Naturopathic Medicine in California!

2009-02-16T14:29:00.000-08:00

The Bureau of Naturopathic Medicine, the licensing body for California Naturopathic Doctors, is slated for elimination under Governor Schwarzenegger’s latest budget proposal. I spent the day in Sacramento with my associate, Dr Elspeth Seddig and 60 other licensed docs lobbying and educating legislators about the importance of Naturopathic Medicine in this state. We really need your help. So, here is some info and easy ways for you to support the cause and maintain your access to this unique medicine.

What is a naturopathic doctor?

A naturopathic doctor has completed a postgraduate medical education specializing in primary care natural medicine. Naturopathic doctors work with all other branches of the medical field, including MDs. Naturopathic doctors attended medical school, receiving the same training as MDs and more.

How much does the bureau cost?

The Bureau of Naturopathic Medicine is actually self-funding, and is therefore budget neutral. This was a requirement in order to get the Bureau up and running after The Naturopathic Doctors Act passed.

What is the Bureau of Naturopathic Medicine?

The Bureau of Naturopathic Medicine administers the Naturopathic Doctors Act passed into law in 2003. The Bureau’s main functions are

Issuing licenses to NDs
Disciplining licensed NDs found to have caused injury to patients
Pursuing unlicensed individuals who call themselves NDs

The Bureau of Naturopathic Medicine is within the Department of Consumer Affairs, along with comparable bodies for Medical Doctors, Osteopaths, Acupuncturists and many other professional groups.

Where can I find the actual recommendations from the Governor’s office?

You can see the proposal here:

http://www.dof.ca.gov/budget/historical/2009-10/documents/Continuing%20CPR.pdf

How can I help?

Write and meet with state legislators.

Here's how:

Use California Naturopathic Doctors Association automated system where there is a pre-written letter that can be personalized by you. You simply go to the link below and you will see the letter and the editable portion where you can write your own note, and then you fill-in your name and address and submit it. Your letter will automatically go to your correct representatives based on your address.

This is the website link to do this:

http://capwiz.com/naturopathic/issues/aler/?alertid=12551186

Find out who represents you in the state legislature and give that representative a call. You have a senator and an assemblyman representing you.

Visit this link to find out who represents you:

http://192.234.213.69/lmapsearch/framepage.asp

Donate

For more information, please visit:

http://www.calnd.org/legnews_detail.asp?NewsID=71

Click here for patient remarks on Naturopathic Medical Care

My Take on the Flu Vaccine

2009-01-19T19:13:00.000-08:00

Ok people. This is the start of a little series of posts around prevention and treatment of colds and flus. Although some of this info is based on common knowledge and old-fashioned home remedies, I feel it bears re-iteration, because sometimes we just need little reminders about what to do, especially when we're sick and spaced out.

Right now I am upset, because I recently just spoke to the umpteenth(sp?) person who came down with a severe flu 2 days after getting a flu shot. This woman has not been sick for ages, and was bed-ridden for 4 days. So we were both frustrated. The frequency of people coming down with the flu, or who get “flu-y” after getting the shot frankly pisses me off.

So here is a little piece I started writing in the Fall and was inspired to finish today. I get a lot of inquiries about the flu shot- is it safe? Effective? Should I get one? My response is not Safe, not Effective and not Necessary!

NOT EFFECTIVE

There are many studies that show that the flu shot is not effective-for kids, for decreasing incidence of pneumonia or flu-related deaths in the elderly- so why are so many people convinced that they need one? ( Hmmm, Big pharma, Big money? But you didn’t hear it from me)

The flu vaccination is made from taking several strains of the influenza virus that scientists predict may infect people. The influenza virus has hundreds of strains and mutates readily. They choose three strains. So basically, the vaccine is a crapshoot. There have been some years where the vaccine hasn’t even contained any of the strains that were going around.

Dr Mercola cites lots of studies to this end on his extensive website. For example, a study in the Archives of Internal Medicine in 2005 reports that although immunization rates in people over 65 have increase dramatically in the last 20 years, there has not been a resulting decline in flu-related deaths. Another study in 2006, found no evidence that the flu vaccine is any more effective than a placebo in children. The studies involved 260,000 children, age 6 to 23 months.

NOT SAFE

Let’s take a look at what is in the vaccine besides the actually influenza virus fractions: Most flu vaccines contain 25 mg of thimerisol, a preservative that contains 49%mercury content. This is 250 times the Environmental Protection Agency’s safety limit for mercury. The effects of mercury on the body, especially in children is a whole other subject unto itself, to be discussed at a later date, but let’s start by saying that there is a link between mercury in vaccines and autism.

Ok. What else is in there?
• Formaldehyde -- a known cancer-causing agent
• Aluminum -- a neurotoxin that has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease
• Triton X-100 -- a detergent
• Phenol (carbolic acid)
• Ethylene glycol (antifreeze)
• Various antibiotics: neomycin, streptomycin, gentamicin – which can cause allergic reactions in some people
• Egg albumin- sucks if you have egg allergies

This combination is frankly quite a nasty cocktail. In addition to the side effect of actually getting the FLU, getting flu-like symptoms from the vaccine (that is funny in and of itself), and local swelling at the site of injection, which are unpleasant but relatively benign side effects, there is emerging evidence of the flu vaccine being associated with increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Other serious, and potentially deadly, adverse reactions to the flu vaccine include joint inflammation and arthritis, anaphylactic shock (and other life-threatening allergic reactions), Guillain-Barré syndrome, a paralytic autoimmune disease, Bell’s Palsy and Parkinson’s Disease.

NOT NECESSARY

So why would one take the risk of getting this vaccine, with its potential side effects, that doesn’t work? Most people, especially kids are able to recover from a flu fairly quickly and without sequellae (negative side effects) with rest, liquids and proper diet. Simple hydrotherapy, homeopathic and herbal medicines, therapeutic foods can greatly enhance this healing response. I will be discussing this in further posts.

FLU PREVENTION

I do want to mention a few simple prevention measures, and a product that I have found to be an effective and safe alternative to the flu vaccine. These tips are good to keep in mind all the time, but especially during flu season, which is October- March

Avoid Refined Sugar
Rest
Manage stress
Eat Garlic and Ginger
Exercise
Wash your hands
Fish oil or Vitamin D (more on Vitamin D upcoming)
Take Mucoccocinum

Mucoccocinum: a safe and effective homeopathic alternative to the flu shot. I have seen great results with this product both preventatively and to shorten the duration and intensity of flus.

Preventatively: Take one tab every 2-weeks from October-March
While Sick: Take 3x/day to treat viral infections.

Stayed tuned for more about preventing and treating colds and flus. Please give me feedback- I want to know what you want to know and the best way to present it to you, as I am just a babe in blog world.

To your health!

Dr Cory

Begetting, Begoing, Begone. My Night in the Oakland Riot.

2009-01-09T19:28:00.000-08:00

“Dream as if you’ll live forever, and live as if you’ll die today”

James Dean

This was the quote I stopped to jot down as I was leaving the Sweet’s Ballroom Ecstatic Dance last night in downtown Oakland. It was 10:30 pm. I can’t help but wonder how those 2 minutes could have altered my fate. For better or for worse? For better or for better?

My car was parked in the middle of the next block down. At night, the blocks seem long and empty in downtown Oakland-and not especially safe. Sensing tension in the air I decided to pick- up the pace of my sinuous post-dance stroll. As I approached the corner, I started hearing shouts and running, police cars starting to come from all directions, helicopters closed in and before I knew, it masses of primarily young people came around the corner shouting “RUUUNNN!!!!”

So I ran like the wind- full flight. Not knowing whom I was running from. The mob of roughly 200 protesters that split off from the peaceful demonstration? The police? I was in the midst of a full on melee, and fortunately made it back to the doorway of the ballroom to take refuge for a time.

The community was protesting the fatal shooting of 22 year-old Oscar Grant while he was restrained and on the ground at the Fruitvale BART station. There is talk that the officer may have confused his handgun with his stun gun. Is that possible? He is yet to be persecuted.

I watched approximately 50 police cars, 20+ motorcycle cops, swat trucks and 2 helicopters round up the last of the protestors. As per the SF Gate, “The group wreaked havoc through much of downtown, drawing hundreds of police in riot gear. It wasn't until roughly 10:40 p.m that police clamped down on the mob, arresting dozens who were cornered near the Paramount Theatre, and bringing an end to the mayhem.” 80 people were arrested. My car was right in front of the Paramount Theatre.

Oh joy.

What turns a peaceful rally into a riot? What incites a mob to smash windows and burn cars-especially of local African-American community businesses and residents? Must violence beget violence? Can we begin to stop the cycle of emotional, mental or physical violence in our world by stopping it within ourselves? Because this adage really isn’t working for me any more-it’s an excuse that keeps the deeper issues and injustices buried. It doesn’t work to pay violence forward. It moves us away from our human being-ness, and simultaneously towards the regressive Hobbesian nature of man as being “nasty, brutish and short”. At the risk of busting out some neo-paganism, it’s time to take the Goddess off the bench and put her back in the game. To honor Compassion and Love, Justice, Peace and Creation. Can we kill each other softly for a change?

"I am begging the citizens not to use violent tactics, not to be angry," an emotional Johnson (Grant’s mother) said at the news conference. "I know it's a very frustrating time, but Oscar would not want to see all the violence that's going on. He would not want to see the fires, he would not want to see this. You're hurting people who have nothing to do with the situation. You're vandalizing their property, hurting their cars and breaking their windows. Please just stop it, please."

I am saddened by injustice. I am saddened by violence and the unmet needs that drive it. How can human life be taken so easily? I am angry at the mob mentality –the madness and delusion that drives it towards destruction and vengeance. And yet I understand the need to take a stand, to be heard, to let it rip. But is violence the only means to that end. I don’t believe that non-violence is a privilege. Begetting, begoing, begone.

As things started to quiet, I attempted to get to my car, but was prohibited as there was still too much tear gas in the air. I was amidst dozens of police- all armed with guns, some with Tasers (which have yellow plastic on them and look like toys by the way) and others with big rifles with red plastic on them. Stun rifles? I just really don’t like guns. Too easy to make a fatal mistake. Too impulsive and explosive. Loud. I feared being at risk for “catching” a stray bullet, so kind of stayed low to the ground. There was a young white guy handcuffed on the sidewalk in a T-shirt. It was cold out.

The sidewalk right by my car

I was finally allowed to enter the zone to get my car escorted by a kind 7 ft tall motorcycle cop. The scene was stunning and surreal. There were about 40 people so “restrained” and sitting along the median in the center of the road and a carpet of people face down and “restrained” on the sidewalk right next to my car. I was trying to be as invisible as possible. I approached my car from the back- just steps away from leaving that apocalyptic scene, and as I reached to open the door I saw the beautifully perfect symmetrical bulls-eye smash-age formerly know as my windshield.

I summoned the giant officer back. He said that I, and about 100 other people, have the protestors to thank for the damage, and to abandon my car for now because I can’t drive it, and they have their hands full so cannot take a report, and they can’t help me anyway.

Not me, but basically me

Stuck. In downtown Oakland at 11:30 pm by myself with $5 and a cell phone that is about to die. Prohibited from going back to the ballroom to seek out someone to help me. The quality of police assistance went from unhelpful to mean. I was keeping it together, but I could feel myself starting to come unglued. I couldn’t think of anyone I knew in the East Bay who I could call at that hour, what was I going to do, etc... Miracle of miracles, I called my friend Scott. He answered and was only a few minutes away. I was so disconnected that I ran right by him and he had to yell my name. I hopped in the car and finally felt safe.

So Scott and Solara were my guardian angels for the night. I stayed at their house, and the plan was to get up in the morning and deal. Didn’t really sleep, as I was anxious about my car being further vandalized, replaying the night’s events, etc. Kept visualizing my sweet little car in a white protective bubble and praying it was safe.

When I arrived in the morning, the only other damage my car sustained was a parking ticket. I laughed. You gotta be kidding me! No parking between 12-3 am. I counted my blessings- I wasn’t hurt, wasn’t accidentally rounded up and arrested with the protestors, my car sustained minimal damage-and went off to the police station to fill out a vandalism claim in order to protest the ticket.

New windshield $200. Rescue Remedy $10. New lease on life, priceless.

Green Search Engine

2009-01-05T22:09:00.000-08:00

Super cool! Want to find any product, service, news, info, blogs, events that are clean, green, free-range, biodegradable, minimal carbon footprint leaving, solar, non-toxic, socially and environmentally just, fair-trade, healthy and good for the planet? Find

Find things quickly like eco-friendly pest options, green boating resources, doctors, lawyers and candlestick makers by adding Green Maven Firefox search engine widget to your list of search engines.

PS: Printed with soy inks and made by 100% free union, biodegradable, human workers on machinery manufactured out of 25% post-consumer products, 43% recycled wireless radiation, and 98% elephant dung.

Enema of the State

2009-01-05T18:19:00.000-08:00

Read this great blog entry today on Reality Sandwich http://www.realitysandwich.com/money_and_crisis_civilization

Charles Eisenstein does a great job of weaving together and simplifying the current economic crisis with nature and sustainability and humanity.

He states "..if you already do not depend on money for some portion of life's necessities and pleasures, then the collapse of money will pose much less of a harsh transition for you. The same applies to the social level. Any network or community or social institution that is not a vehicle for the conversion of life into money will sustain and enrich life after money....We are realizing our own inseparateness, from each other and from the totality of all life."

I always impress upon my cleanse class participants that when the Armageddon comes, it is good to know how to do an enema. We laugh, but it's true!

Self-care and the movement away from the current dominant medical paradigm is not going to simply be a practice of more alternative or progressive thinkers, or a luxury for those who can afford it. It is going to become the dominant paradigm by necessity. It is time to go back and learn about our bodies, learn from nature, the Vis Medicatrix Naturae, and understand that our health in integrally connected with the health of the planet.

So what can you do to create more health in you? What can you share with others to created more health in their world, in the world as a whole? It is a process and a never ending journey- so start now!

Eisenstein concludes, "Individually and collectively, anything we do to resist or postpone the collapse will only make it worse. So stop resisting the revolution in human beingness. If you want to survive the multiple crises unfolding today, do not seek to survive them. That is the mindset of separation; that is resistance, a clinging to a dying past. Instead, allow your perspective to shift toward reunion, and think in terms of what you can give. What can you contribute to a more beautiful world? That is your only responsibility and your only security. The gifts you need to survive and enjoy will come to you easily, because what you do to the world, you do to yourself."

In Health,
Dr C