Saturday, March 31, 2012

Samplefest 2012

KNOWLEDGE is POWER, so make sure to come to our
Samplefest 2012 Gluten Free Food & Health Fair
to get your large helping of both...

Saturday, April 14, 2012, 9am-2pm
St. John Lutheran Church
11005 NE Hwy 99
Vancouver, WA 98686

Admission: $2.00
Children 12 and under are FREE
$10.00 Max per family
Please bring a food donation for the church food bank

Cash and checks only please for vendor product purchases.
Thank you for your support!
See you there!

Positive Thought

"You're braver than you believe,
stronger than you seem, and
smarter than you think." -A. A. Milne

Portland GIG

Portland GIG will be having their
Spring Gluten Free Food Fair
May 19th from 11am-3pm,
Mittleman Jewish Community Center
On Capitol Hwy between Multnomah Village
and Hillsdale.
Save the date...more details to follow.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

Samplefest 2012

KNOWLEDGE is POWER, so make sure to come to our
Samplefest 2012 Gluten Free Food & Health Fair
to get your large helping of both...

Saturday, April 14, 2012, 9am-2pm
St. John Lutheran Church
11005 NE Hwy 99
Vancouver, WA 98686

Admission: $2.00
Children 12 and under are FREE
$10.00 Max per family
Please bring a food donation for the church food bank

Thank you for your support!
See you there!

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Volunteers Needed Please!!

We need volunteers for our next food fair, Samplefest 2012,
Gluten Free Food & Health Fair. On Saturday, April 14, from
8am-3pm. Your admission will be FREE and you will receive a
sample bag of gluten free goodies.
Let us know if you have a Food Handler's Card as well.

Please contact: Kristi @ 360-695-0862
This event will be held at:
St. John Lutheran Church
11005 NE Hwy 99
Vancouver, WA 98686
Thank you for your support!

Steps to Safely Share a Kitchen with Gluten and Gluten-Free Eaters

"There’s a myriad of challenges that living under the same roof with someone can create – whether it’s your loving college roommate, spouse or family – but sharing a kitchen between gluten and gluten-free eaters does not have be an added challenge. Since there are many ways for gluten to cross-contaminate gluten-free foods, I’d like to offer a few tips to keep celiacs safe while sharing a kitchen with gluten-tolerate eaters.

Step #1: Label and designate things to be used for gluten-free usage only.

One of the easiest and most secure ways of preventing cross-contamination is by labeling all of your food (bags, jars, bottles, etc.) and preparation supplies (silverware, plates, appliances, etc.). Sticky notes or a label maker is going to be very helpful in this step. Right after you buy your gluten-free food from the store, come home and label it with your name so that those living with you clearly know whose food is whose. This should apply to refrigerated items especially as condiments and containers can innocently be tampered with.

If you can afford it, having two toasters – one for gluten breads and one for gluten-free breads – is highly advised. Also, for toaster ovens, you should request another tray from the manufacturer and designate one for just gluten-free use. Silverware is the same way; if you can afford a second set of silverware, you should buy one. Either way, make sure you clearly label which silverware is for gluten-free use to make sure there are no confusions.

Step #2: Explain your lifestyle and establish ground rules with clear communication.

First, you should educate the person(s) you live with about your gluten-free lifestyle and explain to them the serious side effects of ingesting even just a particle of gluten. Informing them on this issue will help them understand your request and allow them to be more conscious of it. You’ll learn that this exercise will go a long way.

Secondly, lay down some basic ground rules like keeping the counter crumb-free and not tampering with your labeled items. Understanding someone’s dietary requests and safety precautions is not a difficult task, though it may take some time and constant reminders from the gluten-free individual.

Step #3: Use thoroughly cleaned surfaces and supplies to prepare gluten and gluten-free meals.

The chance of gluten being present on a surface, dish or kitchen item is probably more common than you might think. For example, gluten-containing flour has a tendency to stay airborne for hours and fall on many different surfaces and utensils in the kitchen. Using gluten-containing flour is not safe for gluten-free patrons because the slightest trace of gluten can trigger an illness for them. If at all possible, avoiding the use of wheat flour in a gluten-free-needed environment is recommended to prevent the risk of contamination.

Additionally, a gluten-free eater should never prepare a meal on the same surface that gluten products have touched unless it is thoroughly washed and dried with a gluten-free designated drying cloth. The same goes for utensils or any dinnerware for the same contamination reasons. The remnants of gluten can linger on any kind of surface and the proper safety measures should not be taken lightly by celiacs or people(s) living with celiacs. As a joint effort, both parties can hopefully sustain a gluten-free-friendly kitchen challenge-free."

-triumphdining.com

Jelly Belly

Jelly Belly Recalls Their Peter Rabbit Deluxe Easter Mix Bags Due To False “Gluten-Free” Label

"Recently, Jelly Belly released their Peter Rabbit Deluxe Easter Mix that was stamped as “Gluten-Free.” However, according to the California Department of Public Health, Jelly Belly has put into effect a nationwide recall of this product because the malt milk eggs contain wheat.

When asked about this health issue Jelly Belly replied, “We found the error very early in the distribution and recalled the product immediately.”

For future reference, usually Jelly Belly candies are “Gluten-Free,” but this particular bag is mixed with products that are not jelly beans, which have canceled the “Gluten-Free” friendliness of them.

Specific Recall Details

Assortment: Peter Rabbit Deluxe Easter Mix “Gluten-Free” Candies

Size: 2.7 ounce bags

UPC number: 071567992794"

-triumphdining.com

Friday, March 23, 2012

Samplefest 2012

Make sure to save the date, it's coming up fast!!

Samplefest 2012, Gluten Free Food & Health Fair
Saturday, April 14, 9am-2pm
St. John Lutheran Church
11005 NE Hwy 99
Vancouver, WA 98686

Admission: $2.00 per person
Children 12 and under are FREE
$10.00 Max per family
Please bring a food donation for the church food bank.
Cash and checks only please for vendor product purchases.

Food galore, health information and more...
Any questions call:
Audrey 425-761-3424
Kristi 360-518-0464

Thank you for your support!
Hope to see you there!

Kettle Cuisine

Kettle Cuisine Get One Give One Campaign
Friends,
We've launched an exciting facebook promotion and I'm wondering if you might be interested in helping us to spread the word? Our lofty goal is to donate 10,000 cups of soup to people in need so any assistance you can provide is greatly appreciated!

Here's what we are doing:
As you know, here at Kettle Cuisine we are passionate about feeding people and ending hunger. This is why, during the month of March (which is National Nutrition Month and National Frozen Food Month), every fan who LIKES our facebook page will GET a valuable coupon and we will GIVE a serving of soup to a person in need. Neat huh?

Thank you for all of your support!

Like Kettle Cuisne on Facebook

Best,
Amanda and Lindsey

Amanda Moorhouse
Retail Sales Coordinator
amoorhouse@kettlecuisine.com
w 617.409.1130
c 413-218-3530

Thursday, March 22, 2012

Volunteers Needed

We need volunteers for our next food fair, Samplefest 2012,
Gluten Free Food & Health Fair. On Saturday, April 14, from
8am-3pm. Your admission will be FREE and you will receive a
sample bag of gluten free goodies.
Let us know if you have a Food Handler's Card as well.

Please contact: Kristi @ 360-695-0862
This event will be held at:
St. John Lutheran Church
11005 NE Hwy 99
Vancouver, WA 98686
Thank you for your support!

Kids and Cell Phones Don't Mix

"The single, most overlooked factor in behavior issues in children.
Cell phone radiation is one of the hottest and most controversial health topics of 2012. But it’s especially critical when it comes to regulating cellular technologies for pregnant women and children.

Since the publication of Zapped, I have been following the ongoing effects of cell phone radiation and diligently searching for practical solutions for adults, teens, tweens, and children. So imagine my relief when I learned that Pong Research has smartphone and iPad cases which help to protect users from wireless radiation emissions without interfering with the device itself or its performance—both proven in FCC-certified labs.

Pong’s cell phone and iPad cases are just what I have been searching for.

The Pong research department has said that, “According to the latest Pew Research Center’s Internet & American Life Project, 83% of American adults own some kind of cell phone.” And the Kaiser Family Foundation reports that 31% of 8-10 year olds own a cell phone, 69% of 11-14 year olds, and 85% of 15-18 year olds. In addition, Apple has already sold more than 11 million iPads and Gartner, one of the world’s leading technology research firms, predicts that the iPad will continue to dominate tablets.

While incriminating evidence starts to emerge, The World Health Organization has already declared cell phone radiation as a possible carcinogen—in the same category as lead. A separate 2011 study published in the American Medical Journal discovered that 50 minutes of cell phone use triggers excessive brain activity in the area closest to the phone.

Landmark research from the Journal of Epidemiology in July 2008 reported that children born to mothers who used cell phones while pregnant, and children who used cell phones by age seven, were 80 percent more likely to be hyperactive and to have emotional and behavioral problems.

But the most revealing news is this game changer: Yale University professor, John Wargo, Ph.D. led a recently released study that connects prenatal cell phone usage with a higher incidence of ADHD symptoms. (See http://news.yale.edu/2012/03/15/cell-phone-use-pregnancy-may-cause-behavioral-disorders-offspring)

This latest report calls for tougher standards to be put in place for regulation of cellular technologies—particularly when it comes to children and pregnant women.

I also discovered many additional studies linking other forms of technology to childhood behavioral issues, which I discuss in Zapped.

I think of how rates of autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities have soared in the last forty years. In 1970, for example, about 1 in 10,000 children were diagnosed with autism. Today the incidence is estimated by the Centers for Disease Control at 1 in 110. There are many theories as to the rise in autism including the overuse of Doppler ultrasounds during pregnancy.

Limiting exposure from cell phones and cordless phones by way of texting, enabling the speaker phone option, and simply turning the device off during non usage times are not always easy to implement. The FCC precautions against using products claiming that they block or shield cell phone radiation. In reality they have been found to result in an increase of radiation exposure to the user. These same devices also decrease the performance of the device which only compounds the problem.

My book, Zapped, lists 1,268 helpful ways to outsmart the hazards of electronic pollution aside from eliminating cell phone or iPad usage altogether.

Let’s be perfectly clear, the number one thing is to restrict cell and cordless phone usage during pregnancy. It has been found that pregnant women using cell phones two or three times a day are more likely to have children with behavior problems such as hyperactivity, emotional outbursts and relationship issues. Use these tips to protect you and your children:

Text whenever possible.
Avoid baby monitors with stubby half-inch antennas. Look for the older style that is a wired monitor.
Never carry your baby while cooking, especially at the microwave.
Discourage a small child’s use of a cell phone.
Never phone or text while driving.
Never attach a cell phone to your body or carry it in your pocket or bra.

Pong Research carries a high quality collection of cases for BlackBerry, iPad, iPhone and Android. They have been demonstrated by FCC-certified labs to reduce the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) up to 95% below the current FCC limit. The Pong technology uses a patented antenna that redistributes and redirects the offending radiation away from the user. These antennas are embedded in each case protecting the user’s head and body.

They are available in a rainbow of colors and are as easy to put on and take off as any high-quality cell phone or iPad case. They have been designed and tested to work anywhere in the world. The iPad 3 “origami” case is especially nifty—it can be folded into five different vertical or horizontal positions designed for every activity—watching videos, reading, typing, etc.

I’m such a fan of this new technology that Pong cases have now become my go-to gift for family, friends and associates. Could you think of a more perfect baby shower, birthday or graduation gift? And, isn’t it time you picked a Pong, too?"
www.pongresearch.com

-Edge On Health, Dr. Ann Louise Gittleman

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Did You Know?

"Did you know that a kiwi has two-and-a-half times
the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C- proven
to boost immunity and fight the effects of stress
and aging."

"Higher blood levels of vitamins B, C, D, and E are
linked with better mental functioning in the elderly,
according to a new study."

"Research has established a clear link between gum
disease and heart disease. Vitamin C helps heal wounds,
including periodontal pockets. In a study of patients
with periodontitis, simply taking vitamin C improved
gum health. In addition to those with the disease,
researchers noted that smokers, older adults, and
pregnant and lactating women also warrant special
attention with respect to vitamin C needs."

-Natural Choices Magazine, March 2012

Lucky 13

"These are 13 essential vitamins from a few good sources.
Vitamin A is necessary for strong teeth and bones.
Eat: carrots, cantaloupe, sweet potatoes.
The eight B vitamins contribute to a wide range of functions
including metabolism.
Eat: eggs, legumes, whole grains, fish, nuts, poultry.
Vitamin C maintains healthy tissue.
Eat: citrus fruits, broccoli, tomatoes.
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium.
Eat: salmon, fortified dairy products and cereals.
Vitamin E plays a role in the formation of red blood cells.
Eat: avocado, nuts.
Vitamin K is important for bone health.
Eat: cabbage, broccoli, spinach."

-Natural Choices Magazine, March 2012

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Volunteers Needed

We need volunteers for our next food fair, Samplefest 2012,
Gluten Free Food & Health Fair. On Saturday, April 14, from
8am-3pm. Your admission will be FREE and you will receive a
sample bag of gluten free goodies.
Let us know if you have a Food Handler's Card as well.

Please contact: Kristi @ 360-695-0862
This event will be held at:
St. John Lutheran Church
11005 NE Hwy 99
Vancouver, WA 98686
Thank you for your support!

Top 5 Super Supplements for Spring

"It’s the season to love your liver!
Today is the first day of spring, and although the calendar doesn’t lie, sometimes the weather gets confused these days. It’s snowing in Idaho and 82 degrees in Chicago. But regardless of your locale, your body knows that from March 20-June 19 is the best time of the year to direct your detox intentions to the liver.

Your liver, after all, is your body’s major detoxifier and key to life. When your liver is sluggish, more than four hundred bodily processes are affected.

If you are experiencing any of these seasonal symptoms, your liver may need some extra TLC:

• Rib cage sensitivity, particularly under the right ribs

• Chronic tension in the neck and across the shoulders

• Feeling tired and sleepy after eating

• Waking up between 1:00 and 3:00 am

• Nausea, especially after eating fatty foods

• Light-colored stools

• Hormonal imbalances from perimenopause to menopause with hot flashes

• PMS irritability, bloating

A liver clogged with poisons or excess fats cannot perform its fat-burning and other essential duties, including maintaining blood sugar levels, storing glycogen, synthesizing and normalizing blood proteins, and helping to keep your body in hormonal balance. A poorly functioning liver results in stagnation.

Lightening your liver’s load may be the single most important step you ever take in improving your overall health and achieving your weight loss goals permanently.

Glutathione: The Premier Toxic Waste Eliminator

If you’re sick, stressed, or toxic and take lots of over-the-counter or prescribed medications, your glutathione levels can nosedive. It becomes very easily drained because it is neutralized by chemicals, molds, drugs, (especially the over-the-counter acetaminophen) heavy metals, and electromagnetic radiation. As the body’s main water soluble antioxidant and key to complete detox, a continuous supply is needed to zap all types of environmental invaders.

One of the reasons glutathione is such a valuable free radical scavenger is location. It’s in every cell of your body, giving each cell its own personal bodyguard. It shields your DNA, keeps you energized, and reduces inflammation and pain.

In children with autism and individuals with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, glutathione is almost 100% deficient, suggesting that this uber antioxidant plays a major role in immune system defense.

The best way to take glutathione is through its precursors because the three amino acids which comprise glutathione—glycine, glutamine, and cysteine—are easily digested before glutathione can reach the liver. I recommend non-denatured, unheated whey which contains the building blocks of glutathione and/or N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) which raises glutathione levels in the body, something direct glutathione itself cannot do. Since spring has sprung, load up on foods that contain glutathione like asparagus, broccoli sprouts, spinach, berries, and garlic.

1. N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) –600 mg, 1–2 times daily

Studies have shown that NAC, derived from the amino acid L-cysteine, can help raise levels of glutathione in the cells. A sulfur compound, it also acts as an antioxidant on its own, and there’s evidence that it also boosts the immune system. In one study, Italian researchers created a scientific cage match between staph germs and immune cells. When they added NAC to some of the cultures, the germ-fighting ability of the cells was significantly enhanced. Not only that, they literally lived to fight another day: many immune cells die in the process of subduing bacteria, but more of the NAC-treated cells survived. NAC is exceedingly helpful with spring time allergies because it liquefies and thins out mucus and helps to diminish bronchitis and asthma. I would start with 600 mg per day and work up if necessary.

2. Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) –250 mg daily

A life-extending antioxidant, ALA earns its stripes recharging glutathione by replacing electrons stolen by nasty free radicals. When most free radical scavengers like glutathione latch on to unpaired electrons, they eventually become free radicals themselves. ALA reduces these oxidized forms of antioxidants and makes them come to life again. And its unique ability to cross both the water and lipid permeable cell membranes, it can work anywhere in the body—especially the brain. It also seems to improve the role of insulin—helping this pancreatic hormone usher sugar from the blood to your cells, where it’s burned for energy—to slow age-related cognitive decline, and to reduce the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, damage to the nerves caused by high blood sugar. Note: Start with the lowest dosage if low blood sugar is a concern. This supplement reduces blood sugar dramatically—and quickly.

3. Milk Thistle –200 mg of a standardized extract twice daily

In use for over 2000 years, milk thistle contains the phytochemical silymarin, which not only increases levels of glutathione in the body by as much as 35 percent but also boosts the antioxidant, SOD. In addition, it aids cell repair, calms inflammation, and helps repair damaged liver tissue and detoxify the liver (it’s actually used to treat cirrhosis and nonalcoholic liver disease as well as acetaminophen and mushroom poisoning). Numerous studies have found that silymarin reduces oxidative stress. Note: Milk thistle can be allergy-producing to chemically sensitive individuals so in this case, less may be more.

4. Sea Buckthorn –500 mg –1-2 softgels daily

The leaves and berries of this highly revered “sacred” plant contains antioxidants galore: beta carotene, flavonoids, polyphenols, vitamin E, and even lycopene, along with a healthy dose of trace minerals calcium, potassium, magnesium, and essential fatty acids from the omega-3, -6, and -7 family. Omega-7 is a rare essential fatty acid that is very helpful in the promotion of collagen, so it will bring out your best looks this spring! Seabuckthorn, by the way, makes an excellent internal sunscreen due to its exceptionally high antioxidant content.

5. Propolis –500 mg –1 capsule daily

With heavy spring rains and snow run-offs, think propolis as it’s one of the best natural protectants against environmental radiation residues. Propolis—the resin bees make to build their hives to protect against pathogens and molds—is a source of caffeic acid used in research studies that show protection from free radical damage. It also protects against cell phone damage to the brain and acts as an anti-inflammatory. For me, propolis goes in my travel bag whenever I am flying. I use it as a helpful shield against the ionizing radiation from TSA scanners and to help reduce oxidative stress from radar upon take-off and landing. A must for spring health!"

-Edge On Health, Dr. Ann Louise Gittleman

GF Health & Wellness Experience

Join the Gluten Intolerance Group on June 16th for the Gluten-Free Health and Wellness Experience in Seattle, Washington. This year is like no other - GIG has planned a fun-filled day for you and your family. The festivities will be held at the DoubleTree Hotel Seattle Airport and tickets are now on sale: $15 for adults, $7 for children, and free for the youngsters under the age of 10. You'll be able to explore and taste gluten-free food from many of your favorite brands such as Bob's Red Mill; their gluten-free oats are delish! Excitement and buzz is already generating through Facebook and Twitter about the extensive list of interactive events and speakers from all over the country that will be presenting on topics such as gluten-free baking, mindful eating, sports nutrition and many more.

There will be plenty of time for mingling and networking with fellow members of the gluten-free community and well-known gluten-free bloggers and authors from all over the country. This year is going to be extra special with the opportunity to join these bloggers and authors at Safeco Field with the Mariners for Gluten-Free Awareness Night, which kicks off the conference on Friday night. Get your popcorn ready because this baseball game is going to be a ball! You can join in on the fun with your gluten-free pals while enjoying the baseball game and tasty gluten-free snacks. It will be great to share your gluten-free stories and experiences with others who face similar issues such as eating out, traveling and how to enjoy life living gluten-free. What better way to enjoy a Friday evening and a fun-filled Saturday than with GIG?

Take a sneak peak on the GIG website for more details and a full schedule of activities at: http://www.experience.gluten.net/. Who knows what you'll discover at GIG this June; it may be a tasty gluten-free product or a new gluten-free friendship! That's the beauty of this event; with all there is to look forward to - you'll surely have a delicious and fun-filled gluten-free weekend.
If you have any questions, please contact me. Thank you,

Rebecca Powell
Systems Management Associate - Social Division
e: rebecca.powell@gluten.net p: 253-833-6655

Sunday, March 18, 2012

Balanced Living Chiropractic

It's WORKSHOP TIME!
With the New Year comes many ‘resolutions’ and personal goals. You may have promised yourself you’d exercise more, eat healthier, stop smoking, get more sleep…. Whatever your goals, we would love to be able to help you achieve them! 2012 Brings many changes for us as well, including our new
FREE Health and Wellness Workshops,
which we are excited to offer to our practice members and friends. Many of you have expressed interest in clarification on many different health issues, and it is our goal to teach our practice members what they can do to be healthier in all aspects of their lives.

Beginning this month, we will be holding FREE workshops in our Vancouver office on the 3rd Tuesday of every month. These workshops will cover a variety of health related topics. We invite you to share in these informative, open discussion format workshops, and learn how to steer your health in a positive direction! Space is very limited, so please RSVP on our website, HERE, or call the office at (360) 597-4784 to reserve your spot. Your friends and family are always welcome!

April 17, 2012 – Got Organic?
Is it really better? Where/how to buy, and inexpensive options too!

May 15, 2012 – Natural Living Basics
Interested in self sustainable living? You can grow your own food, raise chickens for eggs, make your own detergents and cleaning products.

June 19, 2012 – Water!
Sources, ingredients, bottle-types, filtered, tap, fluoridated, chlorinated….it’s NOT just water.

July 17, 2012 – Exercise
From everyday life enhancing routines to stress-relieving, calming, and heart healthy options

August 21, 2012 – Good Fat/Bad Fat
New information on saturated fats, brain function, and when to use certain oils, when to avoid them.

September 18,2012 – Detox 101
Thinking about a cleanse or detoxification?
Learn the differences between the leading techniques and expected results.

October 16,2012 – PMA (Positive Mental Attitude)
Dr. Perin has mastered the art of PMA’s, and wants to share proven approaches to thinking and living positive. Is your glass half full?? Or half empty?

November 20, 2012 – Artificial sweeteners vs. Natural sweeteners
NO calories?! It must be healthier! Or not.
Agave – huh?

December 19, 2012 - Diet Fads
The differences, pros, and cons between the latest diet fads, just in time for your 2013 resolutions! Find out which ones are healthy, and which ones to stay away from.

-Dr. Joe Perin
-www.balancedlivingvancouver.com

Volunteers Needed

We need volunteers for our next food fair, Samplefest 2012,
Gluten Free Food & Health Fair. On Saturday, April 14, from
8am-3pm. Your admission will be FREE and you will receive a
sample bag of gluten free goodies.
Let us know if you have a Food Handler's Card as well.

Please contact: Kristi @ 360-695-0862
Thank you for your support!

Saturday, March 17, 2012

Upcoming Events for 2012

March 25 - Disaster Preparedness for Yourself and Your Family -
What to buy, how to store, all the things you will need to
know. Unity Church, Vancouver, Sunday 1-3pm $25 donation
per household. Call Dr. Joy at 360-944-9119 to register.

April 11 - Mastering Emotional Eating to Lose Weight,
Wednesday 6pm $25. Firstenburg Community Center, call
360-487-7001. Give the workshop title, date, time, and
credit card.
Please register early.

-Nutrition Nuggets Newsletter, Dr. Joy Lasseter, Ph.D
Read Dr. Joy's online newsletter at joyhealth.com

Nutrition Deficiencies in Celiac Patients

Rachel Brandeis, MS, RD
www.rachelrd.com

"If you are a newly diagnosed person with Celiac disease, it is imperative that you are screened by a dietitian or your doctor for nutritional deficiencies. Significant vitamin and mineral deficiencies can occur depending on how long a person has gone with active, but undiagnosed disease, the damage to the GI tract, where the damage is done in the GI tract and the degree of malabsorption. Also, secondary lactose intolerance can present as well.

The most common nutrient deficiencies that occur are iron, folate and calcium. These vitamins and minerals are absorbed in the proximal small intestine which is the most predominant site of inflammation in newly diagnosed patients.

As the disease progresses along the parts of the intestine, other deficiencies can occur. Malabsorption of carbohydrates and fat can cause deficiencies in the fat soluble vitamins A, D, E and K as well as magnesium and vitamin B12.

The frequency of iron deficiency anemia in newly diagnosed patients ranges from 12-69% and incidence of vitamin B12 deficiency ranges from 8-41%. Studies have shown that 78-94% of adults recovered from iron deficiency anemia by dietary compliance to gluten free diet alone.

Most of these deficiencies mentioned above are due to damaged villi and the consequential inability to facilitate absorption from the intestinal tract. In order for the intestinal villi to regenerate and reverse nutritional deficiencies, it is important to follow these guidelines:

Strict adherence to a gluten free diet for LIFE.
Increase foods that are high in iron. Rich sources of iron are found in lean red meats. Chicken and fish provide lesser amounts, but can still contribute to daily intake.
Consider a gluten free multi-vitamin; look for those that have 100% of the daily value for iron and other vitamin and minerals.
Increase dietary sources of calcium (if lactose intolerance is an issue, choose lactose free alternatives) such as milk, yogurt, cheese.
Consider gluten free calcium supplement with vitamin D. Remember to spread out calcium supplementation throughout the day since only 500 mg of calcium can be absorbed at one time. Also, do not take calcium supplements and multi-vitamins together, because calcium can bind the iron, making it unavailable for absorption.
Choose whole grain and enriched gluten free products that have B vitamins and iron added back. Check the nutrition facts label on the package to see if the product is enriched."

-GFree Connect, March Newsletter

Thursday, March 15, 2012

The MS Mystery

"What you don’t know about multiple sclerosis can hurt you.
Sadly, we all know someone with MS these days.

This week (March 12 – March 18) has been designated “MS week”. It’s time to increase our collective awareness regarding this most debilitating central nervous system disease that appears to be increasing at alarming rates.

The official stats—in my opinion—are grossly “underestimated” with between 250,000 and 350,000 known cases in the US and 200 new cases being diagnosed weekly.

Many insidious factors may be involved in the multiple sclerosis mystery.

Regardless, the bottom line is that—whatever the real cause or causes—the fatty tissue known as the myelin sheath which protects the nerve fibers becomes damaged, broken, or lost—leaving behind scar tissue called sclerosis. Without a protective myelin sheath to cover the nerve fiber, the nerve is not able to transfer electrical impulses to and from the brain creating the classic MS symptoms—tremors, numbness, tingling, spasms, muscle weakness, vertigo, pain, dizziness, and depression.

So what’s behind the MS mystery?

First off, I think you have to consider that there is a major disease-latitude connection. The farther you get from the equator, the greater the incidence of MS—as well as other serious maladies. In fact, here in the Northwest, I live in the “MS belt.” Could this mean a lack of sunshine or vitamin D is a missing piece to the MS puzzle?

Vitamin D researchers have suggested that a blood serum level of 50–80 ng/mL of vitamin D might slash the number of MS patients by nearly 50%. So, getting a vitamin D blood test and retesting every three months until levels reach the 50 ng/mL mark would make good sense. Most individuals have to take at least 2,000–5,000 IU daily of vitamin D with a meal that contains a good amount of healthy fat, because as an oil soluble vitamin, D3 especially needs fat for absorption. And, do try to get as much natural sun as possible—except, of course, between the peak hours of 10 am and 2 pm.

Secondly, look at copper. Many of you are aware of all the research I have done on elevated biounavailable copper levels in the system—fully detailed in my book Why Am I Always So Tired?. Ironically, copper is also a double-edged sword because a low tissue copper level appears to be a contributing factor to multiple sclerosis, according to David Watts, Ph.D. The normal myelination of nerves requires copper. A Tissue Mineral Analysis would be an easy non-invasive first step in assessing whether your copper levels are high or low. Low copper usually corresponds to low estrogen—which may be another consideration. Many of my clients with low copper and a familial history of MS have used Pregnenolone 5 mg to help raise both their progesterone and estrogen levels which has had a positive effect on raising copper. Copper-rich foods can help too—increase nuts and seeds like pecans and sunflower seeds, as well as black tea and dark chocolate.

Next, evaluate your mercury levels. Mercury is a known neurotoxin that has also been linked to MS. (Even if you have had your mercury fillings removed, your tissues may be sequestering hidden mercury which can be identified with a special urine test and DMPS challenge.) Have a biological dentist investigate whether mercury is still a problem in your mouth (sometimes crowns are placed over mercury fillings) and find out whether your crowns are leaking by measuring the voltage. Check out www.hugnet.com for more information. If you would like a referral to a dentist who is familiar with the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology Patient Protocols, contact info@iaomt.org.

Last but not least, let’s not forget about the electropollution-MS connection. There is fascinating research from Canadian investigator Magda Havas, Ph.D. which suggests that symptoms of an “allergy” to electricity or “dirty electricity”—mimics MS. In Havas’ article: Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity: Biological Effects of Dirty Electricity with Emphasis on Diabetes and Multiple Sclerosis, there are a number of case histories of individuals whose MS symptoms were dramatically lessened with fewer tremors and better balance when special filters were installed in their homes that mitigated the “dirty electricity” form of energy.

Dirty electricity is defined as poor power quality or high frequency transients, harmonics and radio frequencies on electrical wires that are overloaded by all the “electrical” equipment in the house (think computers, fax machines, microwave ovens, and energy efficient or compact fluorescent lights) or coming from the outside via power lines, electrical wires, ground rods, or plumbing.

Simple ways you can protect yourself include getting grounded with the Earthing technology, unplugging electrical appliances when they are not being used, avoiding all electronics in the bedroom, and keeping all digital devices at least six feet away from your head.

As the mystery unfolds, the clues are everywhere.

Perhaps hope, health, and recovery for MS sufferers will be in their near future as we start to connect the dots and reverse this autoimmune nightmare. That’s my fervent wish."

-Edge On Health, Dr. Ann Louise Gittleman

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Indian Proverb

"The way to overcome the angry man is with gentleness,
the evil man with goodness, the miser with generosity
and the liar with the truth."

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

March GIG Meeting

Our next meeting is Saturday, March 17th
from 10am-12pm,
Village at Van Mall Clubhouse
5000 NE 72nd Ave
Vancouver, WA 98661
Parking is on the street, please check the signs.

The guest speakers will be:
Cindy Sherman from Cravin' Raven Bakery
Joy Lasseter, Ph.D, Nutritionist & Author

Please bring a can or box of food to donate
to St. John Lutheran Church Food Bank. Thank you.

We hope to see you there!

Come Clean For Spring

"Simple tricks to eliminate constipation.

Spring is in the air and you’re ready, like Mother Nature, to whisk away the old and usher in the new. It’s time for a Spring Cleanse! And why not? Many health practitioners, including the renowned detox expert, Norman Walker believed that 80% of all disease begins in the colon.

I would agree.

At the risk of sounding anal, here are some rather shocking stats to keep in mind:

The United States is Number One when it comes to laxative use throughout the world. Widespread constipation is probably the surest sign that America’s colons are malfunctioning. Today, two out of three people over age 65 use laxatives. We spend over a billion dollars a year on laxatives. Can you imagine?

The trouble is constipation goes beyond being uncomfortable: it can spell danger. Your bowel movements don’t just relieve you of harmless waste, they rid your body of potentially harmful toxins too.

If you have fewer than two or three bowel movements a day, you may be constipated. In today’s world many factors interfere with normal digestion and cause constipation. Consider the following:

*Laxatives, tobacco, and caffeine—especially from coffee—irritate the colon and over time leave the muscles unresponsive and weak. Caffeine, a kind of stimulant laxative, eventually leads to the atrophy of the colon’s muscles and nerves. (To read more about caffeine’s negative effects, see my 3/8 blog Is This Drug Your Secret Addiction?)

*Nearly 50 percent of chronic constipation is caused or made worse by medications. The most common offenders are anti-depressants, pain meds, and iron-supplements.

*A sedentary lifestyle contributes to flaccid colon contractions. Couch potatoes have recalcitrant colons.

*Stress impairs digestion, creating nervous system responses that inhibit reflexes that facilitate bowel movements.

*Low stomach acid interrupts digestion and allows masses of food to linger in the gut.

*Lack of fiber inhibits colonic contractions.

*Food intolerances to gluten and dairy products irritate the intestines and interfere with colon function.

To remedy the situation, amp up your fiber to between 25 and 30 grams per day (I like several tablespoons of fiber-rich chia or flaxseeds in my daily smoothies). Drink at least one half of your body weight in ounces of water or enjoy 64 ounces of cran-water which has a gentle laxative effect due to the presence of organic acids like benzoic, malic, quinic, citric and ellagic acids. These organic acids, which are unique to the cran, help to balance pH and appear to function as natural digestive enzymes. Load up on lots of high pectin Fat Flushing fruits and veggies like apples, carrots, cabbage, and okra.

Take at least two tablespoons of essential fatty acid oils per day (like fish oil or flaxseed oil) to lubricate the intestines, and get moving. Physical activity—of any kind—can turbo-charge the movement of wastes through the GI tract. We are talking about a 20 minute walk daily here, at the very least.

If you are still backed up, you might want to get things moving with a targeted GI formula—like Super GI Cleanse or something very similar to it.

Look for a colon cleansing product that contains ingredients like fiber rich psyllium seed husk fiber, flaxseed fiber, and apple pectin; mineral-rich alfalfa , butternut root bark (a safe and natural laxative that helps in the secretion of bile); fennel seeds (a digestive aid which helps to cut down on gas); peppermint leaves (a time-honored ingredient that assists digestion); Irish moss ( a soother and natural coating agent for the GI tract); licorice root (a protector and healer of irritated mucus membranes); anise seed (a de-bloater and anti-spasmodic), enzymes, and probiotics that chase away yeast, parasites, and pathogenic bacteria in the gut that flourish in putrefying waste.

For special spring cleaning to prepare the GI tract for deep but gentle detox, I have been using Super GI twice a day (3 in the AM upon arising and 3 before bed) during March 21 – June 21. After June, I go back to just three before bed."

-Edge On Health, Dr. Ann Louise Gittleman

Monday, March 12, 2012

Save The Date!

The Samplefest 2012 Gluten Free Food & Health Fair
will be on Saturday, April 14th from 9am-2pm, at:
St. John Lutheran Church
11005 NE HWY 99
Vancouver, WA 98686

Admission is $2.00 per person
Children 12 and under are FREE
$10.00 Max per family

Come enjoy food galore and a whole lot more!
Don't miss it!

Please bring a food donation for the church food bank.
Cash and checks only please for vendor product purchases.
Thank you.

Thursday, March 8, 2012

Is This Drug Your Secret Addiction?

"America’s most popular drug is now inhalable.
If you’ve been keeping an eye on the news, I’m sure you couldn’t miss the FDA warning about the new AeroShot Caffeine Inhaler. The FDA issued a warning letter to the makers of AeroShot for “false or misleading statements” in their promotional materials which suggest that the product can be “both inhaled and ingested.” The problem is that the powder can be sucked into the lungs—which is unsafe, to say the very least. Not to mention that the product (with its slick packaging in a lipstick-sized container) is being marketed to teens who may already be on caffeine overload considering all the caffeine-containing substances in the marketplace—energy drinks, black tea, dark chocolate, colas, and over the counter drugs such as cold meds, pain relievers and allergy remedies.

So, what’s so bad about caffeine?

Plenty—especially at the rate in which Americans are ingesting their daily “drug of choice.” The average American drinks over 3 cups of coffee per day which equates to more than 150 million people consuming over 300 mg of caffeine daily.

Most experts agree that amounts exceeding 200 mg of caffeine daily can contribute to an enormous range of psychological and physiological problems which have become increasingly common in recent years. Some of caffeine’s disastrous side effects include adrenal exhaustion, anxiety, depression, nervousness, irritability, heart palpitations, fibrocystic breasts, stomach irritation, muscle twitching, insomnia, and even vision problems.

Sound familiar?

You see, your daily cup of joe activates the sympathetic nervous system which governs the fight or flight response. It also stimulates the brain-altering hormone levels and acts on the pleasure centers of the brain leading to repeated use. High caffeine intake causes the adrenal glands to continuously secrete adrenaline leading to adrenal burnout, eventually resulting in elevated heart rate and blood pressure as well as increased respiration. The liver responds by releasing glucose.

Just as blood sugar rises when we consume excess carbs and simple sugars, it also rises when we take in caffeine, nicotine, or alcohol. This triggers the insulin response which can lead to hypoglycemia and ultimately diabetes and even metabolic syndrome. Caffeine can also cause the body to store fat. Weight watchers, beware.

And then there’s the issue of toxins in coffee. Note that over 200 pesticides are used on many coffee plants and that regular coffee (as well as decaf) is one of the most toxic substances for your liver to metabolize. That’s why many laboratories that specialize in functional medicine testing offer a caffeine challenge test to assess how well the liver’s detox pathways are working.

In breaking the caffeine habit, you may want to cut back by eliminating one cup every three to four days and replace coffee with herbal teas (I like roasted dandelion root) or the grain-based Teecino.

Providing the nutritional support your body needs is probably the most important thing you can do focus on the root of the problem and not merely a band-aid solution. Since repeated use of caffeine, like other stimulants, can lead to overstimulation and subsequent burnout of dopamine and other neurotransmitters, amino acids (like tyrosine) which provide the building blocks that make up neurotransmitters, play a key role in repairing biochemical damage.

An adrenal supplement providing between 500 – 3,000 mg of L-tyrosine—a precursor of dopamine, norepinephrine, and thyroid hormone—can be used as an effective treatment for caffeine withdrawal.

In addition to a complete B-complex to help handle stress, vitamin C, calcium, and magnesium can be helpful in detoxifying the body.

Your body is not suffering from a caffeine deficiency but it may be calling out for help in the energy department and that’s where Adrenal Formula and vitamins and minerals are the solution."

-Edge On Health, Dr. Ann Louise Gittleman

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

March GIG Meeting

Our next meeting is Saturday, March 17th
from 10am-12pm,
Village at Van Mall Clubhouse
5000 NE 72nd Ave
Vancouver, WA 98661
Parking is on the street, please check the signs.

The guest speakers will be:
Cindy Sherman from Cravin' Raven Bakery
Joy Lasseter, Ph.D, Nutritionist & Author

Please bring a can or box of food to donate
to those in need. Thank you.

We hope to see you there!

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Hormone Problems Solved

"The one natural remedy that almost nobody knows about.

If you are experiencing hormone-related weight gain, anxiety, fatigue, or even arthritis and osteoporosis, there is one simple hormonal solution that you should know about.

It’s called pregnenolone.

It’s the one hormone that the body uses to make all the others—like DHEA, cortisol, estrogen, and testosterone. Pregnenolone, however, unlike its more highly publicized “daughter” dehydroepiandrosterone (or DHEA) can also transform itself into progesterone, for which it has a biochemical bias.

This puts pregnenolone in a league of its own because it can also offset excess estrogen—which—like a magnet can “attract” and stockpile more fat and water in the body along with side effects like depression, a lowered sex drive, upset blood sugar balance, headaches, and a higher risk for cancer by stimulating breast and uterine cell growth.

Here’s the scoop:

Back in the 1940s Dr. Hans Selye, the father of the “fight or flight” theory of stress, studied the benefits of pregnenolone in terms of anxiety and fatigue. In the 1950s, pregnenolone was also researched for its ability to control pain and swelling in cases of rheumatoid arthritis. The most exciting result was that it caused absolutely no metabolic side effects.

The problem with pregnenolone was that the medical establishment could not patent this natural substance. So research was redirected toward some of pregnenolone’s offspring like cortisol and its many synthetic corticosteroid derivatives such as prednisone and other similar medications.

The so called “miracle drugs” were born!

And so were all of the adverse side effects associated with the pregnenolone wannabes: high blood pressure, weight retention, and the “moon face” facial puffiness.

Luckily, most doctors now hesitate to prescribe corticosteroid drugs over the long term because they recognize that the treatment is usually worse than the original disease. And thus, pregnenolone is being rediscovered. In fact, some researchers are heralding pregnenolone as a most powerful memory enhancer, most likely due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.

While pregnenolone comes in varying strengths, I generally recommend that people start with one 5 mg tablet of pregnenolone daily and slowly work their way up to 10 mg max.

Here are some very positive pregnenolone testimonials from a few of our fans:

“Pregnenolone—I don’t understand what it is or how it works, but it completely stopped the Perimenopause symptoms I’ve been suffering with! I started taking it, and 4 days later I noticed a huge change—no more moodiness or edginess and my libido resurfaced. I am totally amazed. If I forget to take it, I notice the difference. Also, it’s extremely reasonably priced. I will definitely keep buying this! Thanks for everything!” –Monique S., Pennsylvania

“I can see a big difference in my attitude! I’m not cranky anymore, and it helps to regulate my cycle.” –Annette C., Virginia

“I’ve been following Ann Louise Gittleman’s regimens for a number of years and rave in a most unseemly manner about the efficacy. I started taking UNI KEY’s Pregnenolone about 3 months ago and can happily attest that it’s taken my health and vitality to another phase—transformative. Well worth considering, even if The Fat Flush Plan is already working for you.” –Claudia, Forum Member

Pregnenolone is a remarkable adaptogen that seems to work for just about everybody!"

-Edge On Health, Dr. Ann Louise Gittleman

Monday, March 5, 2012

What is Right.

"Faced with what is right, to leave it undone
shows a lack of courage." - Confucius

Organic Produce

"If you can only afford to buy a few things that are organic,
make it potatoes, collard greens and peppers. They have the
highest level of toxins."

-Dr. Oz Show, March 5, 2012

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Interested in Reviewing an Educational Website on Celiac Disease from the Celiac Center at BIDMC?

Hello!

We need your help!

The Celiac Center at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center is creating an educational website on celiac disease. We are looking for people who would like to review the site and send us comments and suggestions. We will use these comments to revise the site before we release it to the public in mid 2012.

Who/what are we looking for in a reviewer:

A person who has celiac disease or cooks/cares for a person with celiac disease
A sample of people from all walks of life, anywhere in the U.S.
Your comments and suggestions about our site on our survey
Your response within 2 weeks of receiving the survey in early April
A person with computer access and an email account
18 years or older

Details of the Site:
It is designed for people with celiac disease who want to learn how to manage their health on the gluten-free diet - both those newly diagnosed and those who have well established celiac disease. These may be people who live far from a specialized celiac center and need to educate themselves on nutrition and the gluten-free diet. It is also designed for those who wish to share useful clinical information with their healthcare provider. Finally, it is for anyone who wants to learn more about living gluten-free.

The articles are written by the Nutrition Coordinator of the Celiac Center, other expert dietitians in celiac disease, and our medical and nutrition students. Each article is edited by an expert dietitian and a gastroenterologist of the Celiac Center.

We regret that we will be unable to personally answer your survey comments. However, we will consider each one carefully as we work to improve the site before its launch.

If you are interested, please send an email to Melinda Dennis, at mdennis@bidmc.harvard.edu with:

Your name
Your email address


We will send you a link to the site and a survey to complete.

Thanks!

Melinda Dennis, MS, RD, LDN

Nutrition Coordinator, Celiac Center

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Boston, MA

Kettle Cuisine

Kettle Cuisine Facebook Promotion
Kettle Cuisine's new Facebook promotion is called "Get One, Give One".

During the month of March every fan who LIKES our facebook page will GET a valuable coupon for one of our products and we will GIVE a serving of wholesome, nutritious soup to a person in need.

Their lofty goal is to donate 10,000 cups of soup to people in need so we could really use your help in making your network of followers aware of this promotion.

https://www.facebook.com/kettlecuisine?sk=app_131036337011602

GIG Health & Wellness Experience

Save the Date!

The GIG Health & Wellness Experience will be held in Seattle this year, 2012.

Location: Doubletree Hotel Seattle Airport

Leadership Meeting: June 14 & 15
The Experience: June 16

The conference website is now available. You can register online:

www.gluten.net/conference

Friday, March 2, 2012

Life

"Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance
you must keep moving." -Albert Einstein

Thursday, March 1, 2012

Build a Better Salad

"Just toss together these nutrition superstars.
Romaine lettuce, adds a hit of vitamin A.
Cucumber, keeps you hydrated and provides fiber.
Pine nuts, contain fatty acids that help you feel full.
Salmon, gives you protein, vitamin D, and omega-3s.
Orange, packs a juicy burst of vitamin C.
Buttermilk, boosts your calcium and adds a rich, tangy flavor."

-Health Magazine, March 2012

Slim Down Your Genes

"You aren't destined to gain weight just because fat runs in
your family, a new study reports. The key to overriding your
DNA: physical activity, which weakens the effect of a gene
linked to obesity. Aim to move 30 minutes per day, five days
a week. Here are a few activities that count toward that half
hour: taking the stairs, walking the dog, working in the garden,
cycling to work."

-Health Magazine, March 2012

Avoid Wrinkles: Eat Less Sugar

"The latest way to fight lines? Clean up your diet. We now know
eating a high-sugar diet will accelerate the aging process, says
Heidi Waldorf, MD, director of Laser and Cosmetic Dermatology at
Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. What's to blame? A
process called glycation, where sugar in your bloodstream gets
bound to collagen and elastin- the support structure of your skin-
ultimately leading to the formation of not-so-fine lines. The good
news is that it's never too late to reverse the effects, says Dr.
Waldorf. Simply sticking to no more than one sugary treat a day,
she says, could improve your skin texture in as little as two months."

-Health Magazine, March 2012