“Life is like topography, Hobbes. There are summits of happiness and success, flat stretches of boring routine, and valleys of frustration and failure.”
– Bill Watterson authorĀ of Calvin and Hobbes
“Life is like topography, Hobbes. There are summits of happiness and success, flat stretches of boring routine, and valleys of frustration and failure.”
– Bill Watterson authorĀ of Calvin and Hobbes
“Those who think they have not time for bodily exercise will sooner or later have to find time for illness.”
– Edward Stanley
“In theory there is no difference between theory and practice. In practice there is.”
– Yogi Berra
“What great thing would you attempt if you knew you could not fail?”
– Robert H. Schuller
AVOID SYNTHETIC VITAMINS
If taking supplements to increase vitamin and mineral intake, it is important to avoid synthetic vitamins, and use organic whole food products where possible. Studies have shown synthetic folic acid (a B vitamin) and Vitamin D2 (often added to processed foods) both have undesirable side effects that the natural forms of methylfolate (B) and Vitamin D3 do not. Whole organic food choices are the best source of bioavailable vitamins, but if supplementation is required, natural forms are best for maximizing health!
BAKE OR BROIL?
A recent study of 4815 seniors over 65 who consumed baked or broiled fish and tuna one to four days per week had better circulation, and a 28% lower risk of atrial fibrillation than those who ate fried fish or fried fish sandwiches. Frying fish appears to destroy the healthy oils. To maximize health, consider consuming fish boiled, broiled or baked instead of fried to preserve the heart healthy oils.
DID YOU KNOW
Alien hand syndrome occurs when a brain injury victim loses control over a hand, as if it is possessed by an alien being
SYNTHETIC SCENTS NOT SO SWEET
Some studies suggest that synthetic, sweet smelling chemicals added to perfumes, toiletries, and creams used on the body may be more dangerous than second hand smoke. Many trigger allergies, or chemical sensitivities, and may act like hormone disruptors contributing to cancer. Many of these synthetic chemicals are volatile organic chemicals (VOCs), two of the worst being phthalate esters and synthetic musk. To maximize health, look for non-synthetic (non man-made) products to minimize toxic exposures through the skin or lungs.
SHOWER WORSE THAN DRINKING TAP WATER
Direct absorption into the circulatory system through the skin is a primary mode of entry into the body. It is possible to absorb more chlorine in a 15-minute shower than drinking 8 glasses of chlorinated water. Many mutagenic and carcinogenic chemicals are easily absorbed through the skin, and may be contributing to the increase in disease, cancer, and allergies. To maximize health, minimize exposure to man-made chemicals, and use natural (unaltered) products whenever possible.
ANOTHER REASON FOR OMEGA-3 INTAKE
Recent studies reveal one more good reason to make sure you have adequate intake of Omega-3 Fatty Acids, especially DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid). In addition to keeping arteries clear, improving nervous system and brain function, and helping prevent cancer, it appears that consuming DHA regularly can help prevent age related vision loss by preventing buildup of toxic residues in the retina To maximize vision, consider regularly consuming low mercury sardines, tuna, mackerel or salmon, or find a good mercury-free Omega-3 Fatty Acid supplement.
DID YOU KNOW
On any given day, sexual intercourse takes place 120 million times on earth.
HOW TO FIGHT HEAVY METALS
Heavy metal absorption has a toxic effect on the body. Mercury toxicity from dental amalgam, thimerosal in vaccinations, fish and fish oil, and most corn syrups, is cumulative and problematic. Lead is easily absorbed through auto exhaust, and houses painted prior to 1978. Our water and air are also contaminated with heavy metals including mercury, lead, arsenic and cadmium. Chelation therapy works to remove these accumulated heavy metals, but is very expensive. Studies show that Cilantro is a natural chelator, and combined with chlorella makes an excellent poor man’s chelation therapy.
PRESCRIPTION DRUGS CAUSE MORE HARM THAN GOOD
A study conducted at the Indiana School of Medicine reviewing over 5000 drugs showed that the most commonly prescribed prescription drugs list an average of 100 side effects, with one listing over 500 side effects Many drugs have been invented just to handle the side effects of other drugs. Drugs with the most dangerous risks include: antidepressants, antivirals, Parkinson’s drugs, and restless leg drugs. To maximize health, investigate natural therapies (including diet and movement) to minimize the need for prescription drugs and their side effects.
HAIR, SKIN, & NAILS REVEAL A LOT
Beautiful glowing hair, skin and nails are outward signs that ample nutrients are available at the cellular level. When nutrients are in short supply, the body shifts resources from the extremities to the inner organs, and hair and skin may suffer. Acne, blemishes, and cracked dry skin are the body’s way of illustrating nutrient imbalance or deficiency. Monitor your skin, hair and nails, and make dietary adjustments to improve nutrition to maximize health.
YOU ON JUNK FOOD
A Columbia University study using MRI’s to evaluate brain activity revealed that sleep deprivation affects junk food choices. Subjects were divided into 2 groups and were allowed either 4 hours or up to 9 hours of sleep. Those with only 4 hours had increased brain activity in areas of the brain associated with junk food, and they chose those foods more often. No explanation was given for why the body might crave more junk food when sleep deprived, but the association was clear. To maximize health get plenty of sleep, or at least be aware that lost sleep may increase junk food cravings!
*Consult physician before trying a new supplement, food or diet. Especially if you’re on any medications.
“‘Come to the edge,’ he said. They said, ‘But we’re afraid.’ ‘Come to the edge,’ he said. They came. He pushed them, and they flew.”
– Guillaume Apollinaire
“Cross Country philosophy…the faster you run the faster you’re done.”
– Unknown author
“A buddy will keep you honest and add a dimension of fun to your workout.”
–Ā Bill Toomey
“As athletes, we have ups and downs. Unfortunately, you can’t pick the days they come on.”
– Deena Kastor
“Get out there and do what you love!”
– Kara Goucher