Survivorbabe's Blog!

77. My father

2010-12-08T07:59:00.002-06:00

As one year anniversary of my father's passing gets closer, I feel more sad and lonely.

My father was extraordinary. With his passing, the world had lost a symbol of strength, hope and humanity, and a tireless advocate for education. His children have lost a loving father, his freinds a wise counselor. He was a remarkable man who dealt with challenges in his life with courage, strength, and grace. He was a person with kneen sence of purpose and drive, who always had an opinion, yet strived to find common ground even with the most difficult issues. He was an inspiration to all who knew him.

He made his mark in our hearts and he certainly will never be forgotten.

I love you dad, always.

T

76. Superfood for men and women

2010-05-17T18:11:00.002-05:00

MEN

1. Tomato Sauce. Men who eat a lot of tomatoes, tomato sauce, or pizza smothered with the stuff may be giving themselves a hedge against prostate cancer. So say researchers at Harvard, who studied the eating habits of more than 47,000 male health professionals. They found that men who ate tomato sauce two to four times per week had a 35 percent lower risk of developing prostate cancer than men who ate none. A carotenoid called lycopene, which tomatoes contain in abundance, appeared to be responsible. But scientists were puzzled: tomato juice didn't seem to have a protective effect. Other research showed why. For best absorption, lycopene should be cooked with some kind of fat. So pizza may be just what the doctor ordered.

2. Oysters. Myth has it that oysters are the food of love. Science may agree. Just two to three oysters deliver a full day's supply of zinc, a mineral critical for normal functioning of the male reproductive system. Scientists are divided over reports that sperm counts have declined over the last 50 years and that environmental factors are to blame. Nutritional deficiencies do seem to be the cause of certain cases of low testosterone. Getting adequate zinc is sometimes the answer (11 mg per day is recommended for men; more than 40 mg can pose risks). In one trial, 22 men with low testosterone levels and sperm counts were given zinc every day for 45 to 50 days. Testosterone levels and sperm counts rose.

3. Broccoli. A recent Harvard study finds that cruciferous vegetables, like broccoli, may protect against bladder cancer. It's one of the most common cancers in this country, and affects two to three times as many men as women. Scientists analyzed the diets of nearly 50,000 men and discovered that those who ate five servings or more per week of cruciferous veggies were half as likely to develop bladder cancer over a ten-year period as men who rarely ate them. And broccoli and cabbage were singled out as the most protective foods.

4. Peanut Butter. If you want a healthy heart, spread your morning toast with peanut butter. Heart disease is the leading killer of men and women, but men fall victim at an earlier age. Researchers from Pennsylvania State University compared the cholesterol-lowering effect of the American Heart Association's Step II Diet with a higher-fat diet based on peanuts. The AHA plan included more carbohydrates. The peanut regimen was 36 percent fat. After 24 days both diets lowered "bad" LDL cholesterol. But the peanut plan also caused a drop in blood fats called triglycerides and did not decrease HDL, the "good" cholesterol. The AHA diet raised levels of triglycerides and lowered levels of HDL.

"Peanut butter is a little higher in fat," says Penny Kris-Etherton, Ph.D., the lead author of the Penn State study. "But it's the type that's good for you -- monounsaturated fat." Researchers have predicted that the peanut diet could reduce heart-disease risk even more than could the AHA diet. Just don't go nutty plastering on the tasty spread, since it is high in calories.

5. Watermelon. Until the age of 55, more men suffer from high blood pressure than do women. Research suggests that foods rich in potassium can reduce the risk of high blood pressure and stroke. The evidence is so convincing that the Food and Drug Administration recently allowed food labels to bear a health claim about the connection between potassium-rich foods and blood pressure. "There isn't a dietary requirement for potassium," says Kathleen Cappellano, nutrition-information manager at Tufts University in Boston. "But a good goal is about 2000 milligrams or more a day." Watermelon, a rich source of this mineral, has more potassium -- 664 mg -- in one large slice than the amount found in a banana or a cup of orange juice. So cut yourself another slice and enjoy the taste of summer.

WOMEN

1. Papaya. This tropical fruit packs about twice the vitamin C of an orange. Add it to your arsenal against gallbladder disease, which afflicts twice as many women as men.

After analyzing the blood of over 13,000 people, scientists from the University of California, San Francisco, found that women who had lower levels of vitamin C were more likely to have gallbladder illnesses. One medium papaya (about ten ounces), with its 188 mg of vitamin C and a mere 119 calories, is a refreshing source of the vitamin. The once exotic fruit now can be found in most supermarkets.

2. Flaxseed. Bakers use this nutty-flavored seed mainly to add flavor and fiber. But scientists see the tiny reddish-brown seed, rich in estrogenlike compounds called lignans, as a potential weapon against breast cancer. An exciting report at last year's San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium showed that adding flaxseed to the diet of women with breast cancer effectively slowed tumor growth. You can flavor your muffins with flaxseed, but the easiest way to get the beneficial lignans is to sprinkle a few tablespoons of ground flaxseed on your morning cereal. Look for the seeds in health food stores or in supermarkets on the flour aisle. They're easy to grind in a blender or coffee grinder. But get seeds -- there are no lignans in the oil.

3. Tofu. Foods high in soy protein can lower cholesterol and may minimize menopausal hot flashes and strengthen bone. Isoflavones, plant chemicals in soybeans that have a structure similar to estrogen, may be the reason. Though animal studies form the bulk of the evidence, a human study found that 90 mg of isoflavones was beneficial to bone (specifically the spine). And two other studies suggest that 50 to 76 mg of isoflavones a day may offer some relief from hot flashes. A half-cup of tofu contains about 25 to 35 mg of isoflavones.

4. Buffalo Meat. Due largely to menstruation, women tend to be anemic more than men. And low iron levels in blood can cause severe fatigue. To get a good dose of iron, try bison. Bison, or buffalo, meat is lean and has what diet-conscious women want -- lots of iron and less fat than most cuts of beef. "The iron content is about 3 milligrams in a 3 1/2-ounce uncooked portion," says Marty Marchello, Ph.D., at North Dakota State University. "That portion contains less than 3 grams of fat." Buffalo meat can help boost energy and lower weight. And you don't have to have a home on the range to get some bison anymore. You can pick it up at many supermarkets across the United States, or through mail order or on the Internet.

5. Collard Greens. This humble vegetable may help fight osteoporosis, which afflicts many women late in life. In addition to getting adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D, some studies suggest that vitamin K may have a bone-protective effect as well. Based on data from one of the largest studies of women, the Nurses' Health Study, researchers discovered that women who ate enough vitamin K-rich foods (at least 109 micrograms of the vitamin daily) were 30 percent less likely to suffer a hip fracture during ten years of follow-up than women who ate less. Researchers point out that dark-green leafy vegetables -- Brussels sprouts, spinach, broccoli -- are all good sources of the vitamin. But collard greens, with about 375 micrograms per half-cup, are among the best.

Health and Greens!

75. Breakthrough to treat prostate cancer!

2010-04-30T09:25:00.002-05:00

A first-of-a-kind prostate cancer treatment that uses the body's immune system to fight the disease received federal approval Thursday, offering an important alternative to more taxing treatments like chemotherapy.

Dendreon Corp.'s Provenge vaccine trains the immune system to fight tumors. It's called a "vaccine" even though it treats disease rather than prevents it.

Doctors have been trying to develop such a therapy for decades, and Provenge is the first to win approval from the Food and Drug Administration.

"The big news here is that this is the first immunotherapy to win approval, and I suspect within five to ten years immunotherapies will be a big part of cancer therapy in general," said Dr. Phil Kantoff, an oncologist at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute who helped run the studies of Provenge.

Experimental vaccines to treat other cancers — including the deadly skin disease melanoma and an often fatal childhood tumor called neuroblastoma — are already in late-stage development.

Currently doctors treat cancer by surgically removing tumors, attacking them with chemotherapy drugs or blasting them with radiation. Provenge offers an important fourth approach by directing the body's natural defense mechanisms against the disease.

The treatment is intended for prostate cancer that has spread elsewhere in the body and is not responding to hormone therapy.

Medical specialists hailed the approval as an important milestone, but stressed it will serve as an addition to current medical practice, not a replacement.

"This is just one step in a new pathway for treating patients," said Dr. Simon Hall, chairman of urology at Mt. Sinai Hospital. "We have to make them realize this isn't a cure, it's very variable."

74. Seven secrets!

2010-04-03T10:34:00.004-05:00

My sister emailed this to me. Well said!

73. Which veggies are key?

2010-04-02T21:39:00.004-05:00

We have talked about the importance of veggies in our diet, but which ones are super key for fighting cancer? There goes the list:

• Arugula
• Bok choy
• Broccoli
• Broccoli rabe
• Broccolini
• Brussels sprouts
• Cabbage
• Cauliflower
• Collards
• Horseradish
• Kale
• Kohlrabi
• Mache
• Mustard greens
• Radish
• Red cabbage
• Rutabaga
• Turnips
• Turnip greens
• Watercress
. Wheatgrass

Veggies and health,

T

72. A new study on how to prevent Breast cancer

2010-03-25T17:58:00.001-05:00

BARCELONA, Spain – Up to a third of breast cancer cases in Western countries could be avoided if women ate less and exercised more, researchers at a conference said Thursday, renewing a sensitive debate about how lifestyle factors affect the disease.

Better treatments, early diagnosis and mammogram screenings have dramatically slowed breast cancer, but experts said the focus should now shift to changing behaviors like diet and physical activity.

"What can be achieved with screening has been achieved. We can't do much more," Carlo La Vecchia, head of epidemiology at the University of Milan, said in an interview. "It's time to move on to other things."

La Vecchia spoke Thursday at a European breast cancer conference in Barcelona. He cited figures from the International Agency for Research on Cancer, which estimates that 25 to 30 percent of breast cancer cases could be avoided if women were thinner and exercised more. The agency is part of the World Health Organization.

His comments are in line with recent health advice that lifestyle changes in areas such as smoking, diet, exercise and sun exposure can play a significant role in risk for several cancers.

Dr. Michelle Holmes of Harvard University, who has studied cancer and lifestyle factors, said people might wrongly think their chances of getting cancer depend more on their genes than their lifestyle.

"The genes have been there for thousands of years, but if cancer rates are changing in a lifetime, that doesn't have much to do with genes," she told The Associated Press in a phone interview from Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. In Europe, there were about 421,000 new cases and nearly 90,000 deaths in 2008, the latest available figures. The United States last year saw more than 190,000 new cases and 40,000 deaths.

A woman's lifetime chance of getting breast cancer is about one in eight. Obese women are up to 60 percent more likely to develop any cancer than normal-weight women, according to a 2006 study by British researchers.

Many breast cancers are fueled by estrogen, a hormone produced in fat tissue. So experts suspect that the fatter a woman is, the more estrogen she's likely to produce, which could in turn fuel breast cancer. Even in slim women, experts believe exercise can help reduce the cancer risk by converting more fat into muscle.

Yet any discussion of weight and breast cancer is considered sensitive because some may misconstrue that as the medical establishment blaming women for their disease.

Tara Beaumont, a clinical nurse specialist at Breast Cancer Care, a British charity, said her agency has always been careful about giving lifestyle advice. She noted that three of the major risk factors for breast cancer — gender, age and family history — are clearly beyond anyone's control.

"It is incredibly difficult to isolate specific factors. Therefore women should in no way feel that they are responsible for developing breast cancer," she said.

Yet Karen Benn, a spokeswoman for Europa Donna, a patient-focused breast cancer group, said it was impossible to ignore the increasingly stronger links between lifestyle and breast cancer.

"If we know there are healthier choices, we can't not recommend them just because people might misinterpret the advice and feel guilty," she said. "If we are going to prevent breast cancer, then this message needs to get out, particularly to younger women."

That means avoiding becoming overweight as an adult. Robert Baan, a cancer expert with the international cancer research agency, said it isn't clear if women who lose weight can lower their risk to the level of a woman who was never fat.

The American Cancer Society Web site says the connection between weight and cancer risk is complex. It says risk appears to increase for women who gain weight as adults, but not for women who have been overweight since childhood. The cancer society recommends 45 to 60 minutes of physical activity five or more days a week to reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Drinking less alcohol might also help. Experts estimate that having more than a couple of drinks a day can boost the risk of breast cancer by 4 to 10 percent.

After studies several years ago linked hormone-replacement therapy to cancer, millions of women abandoned the treatment, leading to a sharp drop in breast cancer rates. Experts said a similar reduction might be seen if women ate healthier and exercised more.

Holmes, the Harvard expert, said changing diet and nutrition is arguably easier than tackling other breast cancer risk factors.

In the 1980s and 1990s, breast cancer rates steadily increased, paralleling a rise in obesity and the use of estrogen-containing hormones after menopause.

La Vecchia said countries like Italy and France — where obesity rates have been stable for the past two decades — show that weight can be controlled at a population level.

"It's hard to lose weight, but it's not impossible," he said. "The potential benefit of preventing cancer is worth it."

health and prevention,

71. Organic or not oragnic! That's the question!

2010-03-18T19:04:00.003-05:00

Organic foods are very expensive. With today's U.S economy, It's hard for many of you to buy organic items. What Fruits and vegetables we have to buy organic and which ones we can pay less for? Fortunately, the Environmental Working Group (EWG, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization) has identified 15 fruits and vegetables that are least likely to be contaminated with pesticide residues.These are the ones you can buy conventional:

Asparagus
Avocado
Broccoli
Cabbage
Eggplant
Kiwi
Mango
Onions
Papaya
Pineapple
Sweet corn (frozen)
Sweet peas (frozen)
Sweet potatoes
Tomatoes
Watermelon

EWG also identified 12 fruits and vegetables that are most likely to have higher trace amounts of pesticides. We buy organic:

Apples
Carrots
Celery
Cherries
Grapes (imported)
Kale
Lettuce
Nectarines
Peaches
Pears
Sweet bell peppers
Strawberries

Health and veggies,

T

70. What is cancer?

2010-02-22T17:38:00.002-06:00

Watch this video. It is the best educational video I have ever seen explaining what cancer is. It is very easy to understand.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_wRpa2b5XI

Knowledge and Health,

T

69. Vision Boards

2010-02-17T21:34:00.004-06:00

I have been wanting to write about this for a while. I believe in vision boards. Vision boards work because they allow you to turn your dreams on. They create a path that leads to action. Look at your vision board like a road map, allow yourself to believe that you are powerful beyond measure and that you deserve to live your best life. Your vision board can be a very helpful compass. But it’s not enough to post stuff and then sit on your sofa and do nothing. Plot and plan your attack!

Your tools: magazines clippings, sayings, quotes, paper to write stuff on, scissors, glue & poster board, thumb tacks & cork board, imagination, freedom, and a positive attitude, giggles, and a sense that anything is possible.

2010 is the perfect time to start a board. You have nothing to lose – well, except doubt and the blues. I’d love to see your boards and hear how they’ve transformed your life.

Health and vision,

68. Bill Maher

2010-02-01T06:29:00.003-06:00

I've promised myself to not ever talk about politics on this blog. However, when I found this article- written by Bill Maher- this morning, it was way too funny not share. I am a hard core democrat, but I really find this to be a great laughing matter for the day:

"President Obama made a point the other day in speaking at the Republican retreat to say he wasn't an ideologue, and while there was skepticism in his audience about whether that was true, there was agreement in both parties that not being an ideologue is a good thing.

Is it? Maybe the problem is that neither party has any ideology anymore -- its just all about getting the money you need to run commercials at election time, and being against whatever the other party is for. For example, why is the decision to have the trial of Khalid "Shake Shake Shake" Mohammad in New York a Democratic position, and not having it in New York a Republican position? Republicans are usually the 24 loving macho warriors. Isn't it the more macho position to be saying, "Damn right we're going to try them at the scene of the crime! We're going to make that bastard look at Ground Zero right out the window of the courtroom every day -- we're going to stick his nose in it like a dog who's made a mess on the rug: 'Look what you did! Bad dog! Bad!!'"? I can much more easily imagine Bill O'Reilly making that case than Obama.

And yet, because its the Democrats who suggested it, the Republicans automatically piss all over it and find themselves backing the opposite approach, then make up a bunch of stupid reasons why: it'll fuck up traffic in Manhattan; it'll be a platform for Mohammad to "mock" us.

Really? The big tough guys are afraid of this loser mocking us?

Blue team says X, Red team says Y. You know how the Democrats can get health care passed? Say they're against it."

Laugh and health!

67. My dad is gone

2010-01-07T15:37:00.010-06:00

On January 6th, the world lost a piece of sunshine. It is with great sadness that I say good-bye to the man who taught me everything in life. My father, my friend, passed away last night after battling throat cancer for over a year. He was a sage, a teacher, a veteran of overcoming hardship, and a brilliant man.

On that day, our handsome, dynamic, charming, brilliant, powerful warrior left his body and became his children's angel. He was surrounded by love and light, family and prayer as he went very peacefully and gracefully into the light. He was only 59.

He was an extra ordinary man, not because he was my father, just because he simply was. I will miss him for as long as I live.

See you on the other side, dad.

I love you so much,

Teti

66. New year resolutions 2010

2010-01-04T17:19:00.004-06:00

Happy new year! Where did the last decade go? Let me tell you what happened to me in the last decade.....I earned my doctorate degree, got divorce, was diagnosed with stage I breast cancer, kicked cancer's ass, got remarried, went to a few countries in Europe, my father was diagnosed with stage I throat cancer while I was on my honeymoon which now is stage IV, Earned a sister-in-law, and a brother-in-law( my side of the family), Became an aunt, and went through many many physical and emotional challenges! I've learned many things, and yet many more things to learn.

This year as every year, I did come up with my resolutions. Do you want to join me? ......

1. Travel more.

2. Get rid of negativity. Anything or anyONE that brings me down.....throw it/she/he out of the window!!!!!

3. Meditate. Breath deeply. Feel good about myself. Let all the emotional baggage go.

4. Read great books. Research more. Educate myself more.

5. Exercise. The ass won’t get small by itself!

6. Tell my husband and my daughter how much I love them, everyday.

7. Laugh out loud.

8. Be kind. Smile to strangers.

9. Listen more.

10. Forgive! forgive! forgive!

I often shoot too high. This time my list is pretty doable. Can you really be a fashion designer, a neurosurgeon, open an upscale restaurant, win an Oscar, and find a cure for cancer in 12 months?......

I want to live life the fullest …are you doing that? Am I? There are still somethings that hold me back. If you feel the same way then let’s make some changes. Let's open our minds and eyes to what universe has in storage for us.

Health, and a blessed new year!

65. How to prevent the recurrence of breast cancer

2009-12-30T20:02:00.002-06:00

This article was written by Dr. Elizabeth Boham( picture above). I found it very informative, and hope you guys do also.

"What Functional Medicine Teaches Us about Breast Cancer

In traditional medical training you don’t learn about the impact that things like diet, toxins, and digestion have on your overall health. Certainly the connections between how your gut functions, your toxic exposure, and your risk of breast cancer is not something most doctors are taught.

To find real answers to my questions about breast cancer I knew I would have to dig deeper. When I finally found functional medicine, the answers it offered were like a revelation to me.

Functional Medicine teaches us that imbalances in the 7 key systems in the body can lead to a host of diseases, including breast cancer. By analyzing which of these systems are out of balance and learning how to optimize them, you can decrease your risk of getting breast cancer or suffering a recurrence.

When it comes to breast cancer specifically, there are many pieces to the puzzle, but one of the keys is balancing your estrogen levels. High levels of estrogen consistently correlate with breast cancer in most scientific studies. The first step to creating and maintaining estrogen balance is to overcome insulin resistance.

Insulin is the hormone released from your pancreas after a meal. It sends signals to your cells telling them to absorb sugar from your blood -- which is a critically important job. However, this finely orchestrated system is sent spiraling out of control by our modern diet.

Sugar is the main culprit. When you eat too much of it, in the form of high-fructose corn syrup, highly-refined and processed carbohydrates, or the multitude of other forms it comes in, your body sends out more insulin than it can properly use and you develop insulin resistance.

What most people DON’T realize is that as your insulin levels increase your estrogen levels increase as well. That means your risk of breast cancer goes up every time you eat too much sugar!

However, the havoc that insulin wreaks doesn’t stop there.

Insulin resistance also increases the amount of body fat you have. As your body fat increases, so does an enzyme in your fat called aromatase. Aromatase turns hormones made in other organs in your bodies (such as your adrenal glands) into estrogen. That means your estrogen levels are raised even more, making your risk of breast cancer that much greater.

This point is especially important for postmenopausal women. Percentage of body fat is the number one risk factor for breast cancer in this population.

Excess insulin causes other problems that contribute to you risk as well: it may stimulate the growth of tumors in your body and increase systemic inflammation which is a leading factor in cancer of any kind.

There are medications available that can help counteract these conditions. You can take aromatase inhibitors which are designed to prevent the aromatase in your body fat from converting your hormones into estrogen or you can take medications to balance your insulin and blood sugar.

However, you can achieve the same effect naturally by choosing real, whole, organic foods, exercising daily, and maintaining a healthy body weight.

As important as it is, insulin imbalance isn’t the only culprit that can lead to breast cancer. Environmental toxins have a major impact as well. The most damaging environmental toxin when it comes to breast cancer is estrogen and substances that mimic it.

From birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy to eating meat and drinking milk from cows given growth hormones, we are all exposed to excess estrogen.

The problem is compounded by the fact that other environmental toxins like some pesticides and compounds found in plastics mimic estrogen and stimulate the estrogen receptor in an unhealthy way.

Obviously, estrogen isn’t a “toxin” in the sense that DDT is. But too much of it can be nearly as deadly and we are exposed to extraordinary amounts nearly every day. At the end of this blog I will explain how you can eliminate this toxic burden.

Another critical part of your body you need to focus on if you want to limit your risk of breast cancer is your digestive system.

What is the connection between your gut health the health of your breasts?

Your flora -- or the good bacteria that live in your gut.

These little symbiotic helpers not only strengthen your immune system and help you digest the foods you eat, they also help detoxify the estrogen made in your body after it’s been used. If your flora aren’t in balance, the estrogen your body needs to eliminate gets reabsorbed. This increases your estrogen level and exposes your body to unhealthy estrogen breakdown products.

It’s interesting to note that many studies link increased use of antibiotics to an increased risk of breast cancer. This may be because excess antibiotic use kills off the good bacteria in your gut.

Now you know some of the main contributing factors to breast cancer. Next let’s review what you can do to balance your estrogen levels, heal from insulin resistance, limit your toxic exposure, and support the flora in your gut.

10 Tips to Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer

Following these steps will help you limit your risk of breast cancer:

1. Choose whole foods.

UltraMetabolism

2. Get 3-5 hours of exercise per week. This also helps increase your insulin sensitivity and allows you to more easily control your percentage of body fat.

3. Increase your fiber intake. Your goal is 35 gm per day. High-fiber foods include vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts, and whole grains such as brown rice and ground flax seed.

4. Have protein at every meal or snack of the day. Good protein sources include; fish, lean poultry, beans, nuts, eggs, and soy. Make sure you include a few vegetarian options in your daily protein intake.

5. Maintain a healthy weight. This is the best studied, most agreed upon step a woman can take to decrease her risk of breast cancer.

6. Get a good night fatigue. Sleeping well helps with weight control, insulin sensitivity, and supports your immune system. All of this is important for preventing cancer.

7. Choose organic and hormone-free meat, milk, and produce. This reduces your exposure to unwanted pesticides and hormones.

8. Avoid excess toxic exposure. Choose organic products for your lawn and garden, avoid dry cleaning, don’t use plastic bottles, and limit your intake of medications (like Tylenol) that get processed in your liver.

9. Take probiotics. Take 10 to 20 billion organisms on an empty stomach twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.

10. Limit your alcohol intake to no more than 1 drink per day and 5 per week—less is better. Remember 1 drink is 5 ounces of wine, 1.5 ounces of hard alcohol, or 12 ounces of beer".

64. Laugh:)

2009-12-30T19:46:00.002-06:00

"The Healing Power of Laughter
by Margaret McCathie

Laughter is healthy, needed even by the wealthy, and is definitely wise.

It is well known that a good laugh does you good, because every time you laugh you exercise seventeen different muscles in your face, it increases oxygen levels in the body and releases endorphins (feel good hormones) around your body. It brings a sense of freshness into your home or workplace, costs nothing and is one of the best stress relievers known. In medical terms it is called “eustress” because it has the opposite effects to stress.

Stress increases blood pressure, but laughter reduces it. Stress depresses the immune system causing a person to be more susceptible to illness, but laughter elevates it. Stress also affects sleep, creating patterns of insomnia, laughter can cure it. Stress lowers our energy levels (physical, mental, emotional), whereas laughter picks them up.

In 1964, Norman Cousins was diagnosed with a painful and incurable inflammation-type disease. He checked out of hospital and into a hotel. He believed in the benefits of positive attitude and did not believe that the hospital environment was conducive to healing. In his hotel room he spent the next two weeks watching comedy programs on TV and reading books that made him laugh. He later wrote, “I made the discovery that 10 minutes of genuine belly laughter had an anesthetic effect which lasted for at least 2 hours, giving me 2 hours pain-free sleep.” He recovered from his condition and spent the rest of his life teaching the medical benefits of laughter. Laughter can also be a great benefit in the workplace. In a recent scientific study, laughter therapy was found to improve the work of 30 students at a Malaysian university. The students found it relaxed them and helped them focus on their studies. They slept better and felt healthier.

In my workshops I find that when people laugh together it instantly breaks down any artificial barriers. It always promotes better communication and team spirit, healing any internal conflicts in the workplace. This is why a growing number of businesses are turning to laughter therapists as an alternative method of teambuilding and tackling stress problems. They recognize it helps staff to see the lighter side of life while staying focused on their role within the company.

In India there is a doctor called Dr. Kataria who runs laughter clubs. His book is called Laugh for No Reason. He has devised laughter sessions that are very much like yoga classes. They begin at a certain time every morning with laughing for 20 minutes, starting with haha…heehee…hoho until there is uproarious laughter. It is a tremendous way to start the day and frequently ends up with participants spontaneously breaking out into laughter for the rest of the day.

Steve Wilson is a laughter therapist who runs the World Laughter Tour. He trains people to teach others how to laugh. The work of a laughter therapist is simply to help people see the funnier side of life. They believe that each and every moment is what you make of it, that you can take it extremely seriously, or you can look at it differently and always see the lighter side. Every situation has a lighter side. The work of a laughter therapist is also about respecting that not everyone is ready to be uproarious or outrageous, allowing people to choose their level of participation so that nobody feels threatened or self-conscious.

Patch Adams is a wonderful doctor who believes that the combination of laughter and love are the best medicine. Patch has proved time and again in his work as a doctor, that laughter is a cure. He has made such an impact that millions have now seen the film “Patch Adams” based on his life and work. He even travels to war zones to bring laughter and joy, sometimes taking 40 clowns with him. They consist of doctors, nurses, therapists and lay people whose only qualification is a desire to serve in a loving and caring way. They dress as clowns so as to not be threatening to anyone of any age group. It is not the type of clown that would splash a pie in your face, but a caring clown, bringing fun and laughter to hospitals, prisons, old peoples homes and orphanages.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if hospitals offices prisons and schools had laughter room instead of smoking room? Patch Adams came to Scotland in the year 2000 to run a laughter workshop in the City Chambers in Edinburgh. The workshop was filmed by Swiss Television and a film was made called In Bed with Patch Adams. It shows him helping a man who was suffering with depression. Patch is in bed with the man helping him to practice laughter exercises. It was wonderful to watch someone who had a laughphobia, getting in touch with the lighter side of their dark nature and just laughing.

In May, I will travel to China with Patch and, as a laughter therapist, help him bring a smile to hearts and minds of many Chinese. And in June I will run a laughter workshop at the request of the Dalai Lama, who both carries and lives up to the legacy of the laughing Buddha.

When I was little, I would get in trouble for laughing in class at school. The teacher would put me outside the door because I would infect everyone else. Little did I know, that at the age of nearly 60, I would be teaching others how to chuckle, giggle and chortle their way through life. It’s almost laughable really!

Seriously Though...
Laughter Works

Here’s why! These medical and psychological benefits of laughter are quoted from American scientific and medical journals.

— Laughter reduces cortisol, which is a hormone that causes stress and increases endorphins, which are the body’s own natural opiates — they make you happy! Therefore when you laugh, the production of endorphins in your body keeps you feeling good for ages. (American Journal of the Medical Sciences)
— Laughter eases muscle tension, which can be good for rheumatism. (Southern Medical Journal)
— Laughter increases the body’s t-cell count, which are cells of the immune system that kill outside invading bacteria harmful to the body. Laughter also increases lymphocyte blastogenesis, which, put simply, means that the immune system works faster and more efficiently (Journal of Clinical Research)
— Laughter aids ventilation and helps clear mucus plugs, which is good for respiratory conditions like emphysema (Journal of the American Medical Association)
— Laughter induces an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, which exercises the myocardium and increases blood circulation causing a rise in the volume of oxygen and nutrients that are pumped to the tissues. (Journal of Biological Psychology)
— Laughter increases catecholamines, which are known to boost mental function. Therefore laughter improves mental alertness, memory and interpersonal responsiveness. (Journal of the American Medical Association)
— Laughter enhances blood oxygen levels and boosts circulation. (Journal of Biological Psychology) This is particularly important in combating cancer because cancer needs an oxygen-depleted body to survive. (Credence)
— Laughter increases pain tolerance. (New England Journal of Medicine)
— Laughter reduces the rate of cellular decay, thus slowing down the rate of aging. (Journal of the American Medical Association)
— Laughter brings about an emotional high, which can enable problems to be seen from a different perspective, especially those of a stressful nature. (Psychological Reviews) "

Health and smile!

63. SOY and breast cancer

2009-12-23T08:53:00.003-06:00

For the last two years, I have been avoiding the soy products, since I was diagnosed with breast cancer. This is a new study that says totally otherwise!!!

"Women with breast cancer who eat more soy are less likely to die or have a recurrence of cancer than women who eat few or no soy products, according to a new study.

In the past, physicians have often warned breast cancer patients not to eat soy. The new research represents "a complete turnaround" from the previous understanding about the link between soy consumption and breast cancer, says Sally Scroggs, a registered dietician and senior health education specialist at M.D. Anderson's Cancer Prevention Center in Houston, Texas.

"We have gone from saying, 'No soy for breast cancer survivors' to, 'It's not going to hurt,'" Scroggs says. "Now it looks like we can say, 'It may help.'"

The study looked at more than 5,000 women in China who had undergone a mastectomy; they were followed for about four years. The women who consumed the most soy protein (about 15 grams or more a day) had a 29 percent lower risk of dying and a 32 percent decreased risk of breast cancer recurrence compared to the women who consumed less than about 5 grams of soy protein a day, according to the study, which appears in the December 9 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association. The National Cancer Institute and the U.S. Department of Defense's Breast Cancer Research Program funded the study.

Women who ate between 9.5 and 15 grams of soy protein saw nearly the same decrease in risk as the women who ate more than 15 grams. In fact, the researchers found no additional benefits to eating more than 11 grams of soy protein a day. (An 8-ounce glass of soy milk and a cup of shelled edamame contain about 7 and 14 grams of soy protein, respectively.)

In all, 534 women had a breast cancer recurrence or died from breast cancer during the study period.

Soy foods--such as milk, tofu, and edamame--are rich in naturally occurring estrogens (especially isoflavones) that can mimic the effects of estrogen in the female body. Because the most common types of breast cancer depend on estrogen to grow, experts once feared that soy isoflavones could stimulate the estrogen receptors in breast-cancer cells, even though the estrogens in soy are much weaker than those produced by the body.

Health.com: 'I stayed in control of my breast cancer treatment'

The current study suggests the exact opposite: Soy may actually reduce the amount of estrogen that's available to the body.

"Soy isoflavones may compete with estrogens produced by the body. Soy isoflavones may also reduce the body's production of estrogen, and increase clearance of these hormones from the circulation--all of which together reduce the overall amount of estrogen in the body," says the lead author of the study, Dr. Xiao Ou Shu, M.D., Ph.D., a cancer epidemiologist at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center of Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee.

Shu says, however, that factors beyond estrogen may be at work. Other components of soy foods, such as folate, protein, calcium, or fiber (or some combination thereof) may also be responsible for the health benefits reported in the study, she says.

Health.com: New breasts to go with my cancer-free life

The new findings, which seem to contradict what many women have heard from their doctors over the years, could prove perplexing for women such as Andrea Mulrain, 44, a former music executive who was first diagnosed with breast cancer 10 years ago.

After her diagnosis, Mulrain's doctors told her to steer clear of all soy foods because these foods could encourage the growth of cancer cells. Mulrain had estrogen-sensitive breast cancer, which means that estrogen helps the cancer grow.

Her doctors eventually softened their stance a bit, and said she could consume soy in moderation. "I pretty much avoided soy for 10 years after diagnosis but recently was told it was OK to have soy in moderation as long as I read the labels and make sure it's not the main ingredient in any food," says Mulrain, who is currently being treated for a recurrence.

In the study, the association between soy consumption and lower risk of death and cancer recurrence was seen in women like Mulrain with estrogen-sensitive breast cancers, and in women taking tamoxifen, a drug designed to prevent cancer recurrence by blocking the effects of estrogen in the breast tissue.

Health.com: What you need to know if you choose breast reconstruction

Despite the study's findings, the final verdict on soy and breast-cancer recurrence is not yet in, according to an accompanying editorial written by Dr. Rachel Ballard-Barbash, M.D., of the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Maryland, and Marian L. Neuhouser, Ph.D., of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, Washington.

The follow-up period in the new study was relatively short, they say, and breast-cancer diagnosis and treatment may be different in China compared to the United States. Similarly, there may be differences in the types of soy foods that Chinese and American women eat. (In general, Chinese women consume significantly more soy than American women.)

More studies are needed to confirm these findings, especially as they apply to women with estrogen-sensitive breast cancer or those who take drugs such as tamoxifen to keep breast cancer at bay, say Ballard-Barbash and Neuhouser. Still, they say, "Patients with breast cancer can be assured that enjoying a soy latte or indulging in pad thai with tofu causes no harm, and when consumed in plentiful amounts may reduce risk of disease recurrence."

The study should be reassuring to women who have been trained to steer clear of soy, says Scroggs. "Don't freak out if there is some tofu mixed in with your vegetables at an Asian restaurant," she says.

Health.com: Breast cancer -- What should I do if I'm high risk?

Her soy prescription for breast-cancer survivors? "Eat soy in moderation, and your soy proteins should come from foods, not concentrated supplements," she says. "Soy is a complete protein so it is high in fiber and has a place in a healthy, balanced diet."

Eating more soy is beneficial because it tends to replace less healthy foods in people's diets, Scroggs says. "When people are eating soy protein, they are likely eating less of something else, such as red meat," she says".

Health and Soy!:)

62. Cellfood

2009-11-05T10:36:00.004-06:00

CELLFOOD is the world’s #1 selling oxygen + nutrient supplement. For more than 40 years, NuScience Corporation has manufactured Everett Storey’s original CELLFOOD formula containing 78 minerals, 34 enzymes, and 17 amino acids. CELLFOOD utilizes a proprietary water-splitting technology that provides a powerful stream of bio-available oxygen plus 129 nutrients directly to the cells.

Cellfood – Free radical scavenger (powerful antioxidant)

Free radicals are atoms (or groups of atoms) that are missing an electron. These highly reactive molecules become even more dangerous in the human body when they react with and damage other important cellular components like DNA. Antioxidants are directly responsible for the prevention of cellular damage by neutralizing and eliminating free radicals. In a recent study, CELLFOOD was shown to decrease excess free radical activity by up to 27%.

Cellfood – Helps detoxify the body and balance pH

CELLFOOD’s colloidal and ionic formula has a negative charge (as measure by Zeta potential testing). This negatively charged solution (like blood and lymph) allows for the rapid absorption and assimilation of nutrients. This process enables the body to more efficiently eliminate toxins and balance pH.

61. The winner of the shortest movie in the world!

2009-09-11T17:30:00.002-05:00

This is very touching. Make sure to check it out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQPbOAP0CIY

60. How to Eat Healthy to Help Prevent Breast Cancer

2009-06-22T06:57:00.002-05:00

Check out these links:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0i4DK0tRYps

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3McBJQxthc&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxZV6z74BJU&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-uAutOQ0MT8&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_aZZOgUBUs&feature=related

59. Breathe

2009-06-12T10:00:00.003-05:00

How many of you are shallow breathers? I am. Why? Not sure. Fear? Anxiety? Perhaps I don’t breathe deeply because in some corner of my domesticated girl damage a deep breath means a rounded belly and a rounded belly is “bad”. You know what I mean? Suck it in, keep it slim.

Yesterday that changed. I decided to REALLY breathe to take some tension off. Then the greatest thing happened. I got high. I cried. My body shook. I started to sweat, to smile. The world opened up and kissed me. Wow… It was firkin’ cool! Breathing can do that? You bet!
The deeper I went( with breathing!! Clear your dirty mind!) the more clarity I felt. I peeked at the dumb beliefs that hold me back. The emotional vampires, physical blockages, and spiritual disconnects lit up like Christmas trees. Damn, after all this time I still have issues in my tissues. Well, I guess that’s kinda cool. No, I know that’s VERY cool. Solving the puzzle that is me is interesting. Never a dull moment on the path…

Practice to breathe. Without oxygen there is no life. Cancer hates oxygen. Without water there is no life. Water conducts energy, electricity. These two substances are key elements of life force. Are you getting enough of them? Because it feels so good to feel so good, I’m going back for more. Come with me. Take some time to get frisky with your lungs. Listen to your body when it ask you for hydration.

This is no time to be beige. You are a glitter soaked wellness warrior and your thighs need you! Your liver will deep bow thank you. You will poop like a heavy weight champion. Your spirit will shake it off and stamp it down as you will rise out of the hole and shift your perception from lack to plenty.

If you are following my routine, I ask that you focus on the positive rather than the negative. Instead of “I didn’t do it right”, please notice, acknowledge and bless all that you have accomplished. In order to do this you really need to think about the language you use. We all talk to ourselves (especially in the car). Pay attention to what you are saying and remember that your cells have ears! They are listening…

I know I have said that many times, but since it is very important, I am going to say it again: Keep your PH balanced. Think of the SAD diet. Most folks are bathing their cells in an acid bath by making poor 3 or more times per day!

Breakfast: Coffee (with milk & splenda), juice, eggs, bacon, toast with I can’t believe it’s not butter (then what the heck is it?)11am Crash: More coffee and a donut....... Lunch: Hamburger, white bun, fries, cola4 PM crash: Coffee or cola, candy bar ........Dinner: Chicken, macaroni & cheese BOILED broccoli and ice tea ........Dessert: Little Debbie Snack Cake, frozen yogurt (aka frozen chemicals and puss that create a mucus fandango!), etc

A menu like this keeps the body in panic mode all day every day . Remember those “Where’s the Beef?” ads? Well how about “Where’s the fiber, the water?” One of the biggest causalities of the SAD—standard American diet—is the toll it takes on the body, especially the digestive system, liver, and kidneys. Inflammation, allergies, arthritis, skin problems, mood disorders, depression, constipation, bowel issues, stress (physical & mental) and chronic disease LOVE this diet.

Look at your plate, peek in your glass. What direction are you moving in? On the pH scale, Soda = 2. Coffee = 4. Cucumber = 7. Get the picture? Burger, fries, diet cola, muffin, candy bar? Acid bath! Green drinks, salads, sprouts, wheatgrass? Alkaline super disco! Your goal is to make energy deposits instead of constant withdrawals. Again, Drink water, eat greens, and breathe, breathe, breathe.

Yeah, yeah, it is hard. Do you think that “well” happens over night? You have to discipline your ass!

58. Kombucha tea

2009-05-19T09:11:00.005-05:00

Last weekend, at a friend's birthday party, I happened to meet two fabulous women who introduced me to Kombucha tea. The next day, I ran to the whole food store and bought myself a case. Why? This is the article I found:

"How Does Kombucha Work?Kombucha is an effective metabolic balancer (helping the various organs work together), probiotic (supporting the beneficial bacteria), adaptogen (balancing processes that get out of kilter) and detoxifier. The probiotic case for Kombucha is that it encourages healthier intestinal flora by introducing lactic acid-producing bacteria. These work in a similar way to acidophilus bacteria, the active ingredient in live yogurt. An old saying, ‘healthy gut, healthy body,’ puts it simply. The acidity level of the gut is all-important, as is the health of its microbial flora which play a crucial role in the functioning of the whole body.Bacteroides and BifidobacteriaThe bacteria in the intestines can be divided into two main types;1 the less acid-forming bacteroides are responsible for the decaying matter in the colon; elderly people tend to have more gastric disorders; these stem from a low hydrochloric acid production in the stomach, creating more room for fungi and parasites to take hold; bacteroides are encouraged by a diet high in fats and proteins.The more acidic ones, called bifidobacteria, are more beneficial because they produce essential organic acids, such as acetic, lactic and folic acids, which raise the acidity of the intestines, preventing invading pathogens from taking hold. In addition, by keeping down the bacteroides population, they discourage the putrefaction from becoming toxic. The bifidobacteria are favoured by a diet high in carbohydrate, fiber and lactose-vegetarian food and are more common in individuals who were breast-fed as babies. They are also assisted by drinking Kombucha tea.Kombucha – a Nutritious FoodKombucha culture has a wide range of organic acids, vitamins and enzymes that give it its extraordinary value. It contains the range of B vitamins, particularly B1, B2, B6 and B12, that provide the body with energy, help to process fats and proteins, and which are vital for the normal functioning of the nervous system. There is also vitamin C which is a potent detoxifier, immune booster and enhancer of vitality.Probiotic Organic AcidsThere are two organic acids produced by Kombucha culture which encourage the activity of the resident bifidobacteria, thus restoring a healthy balance with the bacteroides:Lactic acid which is essential for healthy digestive action (through its derivative lactobacilli) and for energy production by the liver, and is not found in the tissues of people with cancer.Acetic acid which is an antiseptic and inhibitor of pathogenic bacteria.Kombucha’s Vital Organic AcidsOther valuable organic acids produced by the Kombucha culture, some of which have a more direct effect on other organs include:Glucuronic acid, normally produced by a healthy liver, is a powerful detoxifier and can readily be converted into glucosamines,the foundations of our skeletal system.Usnic acid has selective antibiotic qualities which can partly deactivate viruses.Citric acid is an antiascorbic.Oxalic acid encourages the intercellular production of energy, and is a preservative.Malic acid also helps the liver to detoxify.Gluconic acid is a sugar product which can break down to caprylic acid to work symbiotically with —Butyric acid (produced by the yeast) protects human cellular membranes, and combined with Gluconic acid which is produced bythe bacteria,strengthens the walls of the gut in order to combat yeast infections such as Candida.Nucleic acids, like RNA and DNA, transmit information to the cells on how to perform correctly and regenerate.A product of the oxidation process of glucose – glucuronic acid – is one of the more significant constituents of Kombucha culture. As a detoxifying agent, it has come into its own today in our highly polluted world. It is one of the few agents that can cope with the pollutive products of the petroleum industry, including all the plastics, herbicides, pesticides and resins. It ‘kidnaps’ the phenols in the liver which are then eliminated easily by the kidneys. Another byproduct of glucuronic acid are the glucosamines, the structures associated with cartilage, collagen and the fluids which lubricate the joints. Collagen reduces wrinkles, while arthritis sufferers have their deficient cartilage and joint fluids replenished.Amino acids, which are constituents of proteins, produce important enzymes, such as glutathione a powerful antioxidant which provides protection from alcohol and pollution, and which is depleted by drug regimes.Sugar, Yeast and TeaWhen Kombucha tea is made correctly, all the sugars are fully converted into organic acids during fermentation, enabling Kombucha tea culture to be is safely drunk by diabetics and Candida sufferers. Also the yeasts found in the Kombucha culture do not stimulate the Candida yeasts as they are of a different type; Candida sufferers have therefore often found considerable relief in taking Kombucha. Black or green tea may be used as a nutrient for the culture, but as green tea has anti-carcinogenic properties, is beneficial to the heart and blood circulation and is particularly nutritious, it is preferable to use.

Balancing the BodyMetabolic balancing is perhaps the most important function of Kombucha. This is one reason why it is not symptom specific – why it does not always help a specific immune-related illness, but rather seems to go to a person’s own weakness or personal imbalance. Such a substance which has no specific harmful effect is called an adaptogen. Kombucha’s adaptogen effect is seen mostly through its influence on the liver, the blood and the digestive system, where it normalizes the acidity or pH.The Acidity FactorHuman metabolism depends on the acid-alkaline balance which is constantly responding to the food that we eat, the air that we breathe, and to our emotional state. The body has a remarkable balancing system that maintains the different organs at the pH level each requires for health. A cell’s pH balance is disturbed by toxins, which create more acidity. The body gets rid of toxic acids by various means. One is through breathing – that is why deep breathing is so therapeutic – it makes the blood more alkaline. Another is by flushing out – one of Kombucha’s roles is to flush out the toxins through the kidneys.The Liver Filters ToxinsThe liver is vital to life; it has the ability to restore itself and has many functions – to assist digestion, to store important vitamins and minerals, to metabolize proteins, fats and carbohydrates to provide energy for the body, to recycle red blood cells, and remove toxins from the body. Because of its role in pH regulation and of its detoxifying acids, Kombucha is a valuable restorative of liver function.Blood – Brings Life to the whole BodyWhen blood gets too alkaline calcium tends to crystallize out of the blood solution. These crystals are deposited near the joints, causing joint tenderness, arthritis, rheumatism and allergies. Older people’s blood becomes more alkaline, which can affect their circulation, oxygenation and energy. An acidic blood condition can lead to diabetes where fat and protein wastes are not being discharged. Another acidic condition results in adrenal depletion and general exhaustion.Conventionally, blood is thought to be sterile. But through his dark-field microscope research, Professor Gunther Enderlein has shown that it is teeming with microbiological life. Normally these micro-organisms are in a mutually beneficial symbiotic state of balance but, for example, the lowering of the oxygen content of the blood, nutritional deficiency and toxicity may lead to the development of pathogenic microbial flora which can result in disease in other organs of the body. These micro-organisms can travel freely between the blood plasma which surrounds the blood cells, and the interstitial fluid which surrounds the fixed tissue cells of the body.6 Kombucha is known to have a balancing effect of the pH of the blood which is likely to make it less hospitable to pathogenic bacteria."

P.S: Buy the Multi-Green flavor. It is the most beneficial. But if can't tolerate the taste, but the mango flavor. Don't shake the bottle, refrigerate it, and drink it in 30 minutes after it is opened.

57. Article

2009-03-11T12:29:00.004-05:00

A week ago, one fabulous cancer stud, asked me to write for his website!!! What an honor. Apparently he happen to find my blog by accident. His website is just fantastic. He is a brain cancer survivor, is only 30 years old, and has a PhD! Just hot:)

Staring at a blank page and knowing that the words are due soon is very spooky. Bring on the sweat pants, and greasy hair! Why did I say yes to this? I love/hate writing. If you can imagine perspiring blood, that’s what it feels like at times. All complaining/fear aside, this article is really important to me. My lofty intention is to gather and share the information I’ve learned from my experience of successfully managing a cancer with a great diet, healthy lifestyle and loads of love. He wants me to write about my experience with chemotherapy. Oh, wow! Where do I start? Should I talk about my constant nausea or hair falling? How about how I felt then? How about what I learned? He was looking for someone who is honest. I can assure you I am the gal!

Why wait till we’re on the ropes to live like we mean it? It’s gutsy to take a stand NOW! Stand up for your health, for the environment, stand up for the people you love and for future generations. Is it so hard to believe that each of us can make a difference? You in your living room in the middle of nowhere can start a revolution that changes this world for the better. WOW, you’re HOT! You’re POWERFUL! Wanna hang out and hug?

I used to think that I’d get my shit together later in life. Then my diagnosis came a calling’ and I realized that there’s no time like the present. I’m humbled that my experience have helped so many with the “little c.” Maybe, just maybe, this new blog can help many More people, plant a few seeds and contribute to reducing the amount of suffering in the world. Perhaps it will save a few folks from similar shit-pickles. And most important, isn’t it beyond time to finally win the war on cellulite!?! Why not dream big, right?

So what the heck will I be writing about? Good question! HELP! Here goes…(throat clearing sounds) - how to thrive on a low glycemic, gluten-free, mostly raw, vegan, organic (when possible) diet and all the mind/body work needed to keep us on track. I’ll include a one week cleanse starting with a week-long transition and a kick ass colonic. My hope is that readers will learn why this way of living is so important on a proof-based, scientific level.

This isn’t a diet article, it’s a game plan. With all the confusion and contradictions out there, it’s not enough to just tell you what to eat and what to stay away from. I want you to really understand WHY. Enter the power of pH, enzymes, fasting, colonic, removing heavy metals, loving’ your adrenals, pineal a go-go, why minerals are sexy, when to use supplements and what kind, oxygen, antioxidants, where to get protein/calcium and how much is needed, and most all - how to make this all do-able, enjoyable and cost effective. Sound good? That’s just the tip of the ice berg tootsie. But I can’t give away all my super secret plans!

OK, now I’m starting to sweat like a smelly man. Clearly I have a lot of work to do. Please wish me luck and love and let me know what YOU want to know. What do you need to read and why?

Peace and excitement,

Tetika

56. Another reason to celebrate Obama!

2009-03-03T12:22:00.002-06:00

Hyia,

This was on CNN today:

President Obama's pledge to conquer cancer "in our time" is a great goal, but one of America's top cancer experts isn't sure he'd use the word "cure." "The idea of [calling for] a cure does scare me a little bit because, I don't think that's realistic in some cancers," says Dr. Otis Brawley, chief medical officer for the American Cancer Society. "But I like the general overall idea, and I'm thrilled about the focus on health."
Obama's first proposed budget includes $6 billion for cancer research by the National Institutes of Health. That's on top of the additional $10 billion provided by the stimulus package for 2009 and 2010.
But some cancer specialists say that rather than finding a cure, a more realistic scenario is that certain cancers that are fatal today will move into the realm of chronic illnesses.
By chronic disease, doctors mean "the way we think of diabetes or heart disease as chronic diseases, where people could live in peaceful coexistence with cancer, as opposed to the cancer continuing to advance," said Brawley, who also is CNNhealth.com's conditions expert.
Dr. Tony Reid, an oncologist and director of clinical trials at the Moores Cancer Center at the University of California, San Diego, shares this view. He sees the long-term management of certain cancers as chronic illness as a "primary intermediate step" as researchers work towards cures.
Prevention efforts, including discouraging smoking, obesity, and environmental hazards, are also important components of the cure, Dr. Andreas Ullrich, medical officer in cancer control at the World Health Organization in Geneva, Switzerland.
How long it will actually take to cure cancer is anyone's guess, but Obama's initiative is encouraging, he said.

"We need this hope," Ullrich said. "We need to invest in our efforts in research, in basic research, and also in social science to understand why people behave in a risky way, and how to prevent people from exposing themselves to cancer risk," he said.
Given that "cancer" encompasses more than 200 diseases, it makes sense that different varieties would require different approaches for saving the lives of their victims.
From Brawley's perspective, a cure happens when the disease has gone away and it's not likely to come back, and the person is likely to grow old and die from something totally unrelated.
Reid put it in terms of years of survival -- with pancreatic cancer, which normally takes lives within six months of diagnosis, you're probably cured if you're still alive five years after surgery, he said. But breast cancer can come back even after 10 years, he said.
About 11 million people living in the United States had a history of some form of cancer as of 2005, according to the latest statistics from the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results database.
There has been progress, however. For American men, the risk of death for cancer is 20 percent lower than it was 20 years ago, Brawley said.
Rates of new cancer diagnoses and deaths for U.S. men and women simultaneously fell for the first time since reporting began in 1998, according to a report published in November in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.

Already there are cancers that respond well to drugs for several years. Patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors tend to tolerate the drugs well, for example, Reid said.
"I have many patients who will come back and say, 'Except for the fact that you tell me I have cancer, I don't know it,' " he said.
But after a while, these patients' cancer cells mutate and evolve to become resistant to the drugs, finding ways around almost any drug, Reid said.
Some breast cancer patients take medications for 10 years to prevent recurrence, said Dr. Stephanie Hines, physician at the breast center at the Mayo Clinic's Breast Cancer Center in Jacksonville, Florida. But great strides have been made in such drugs, she said.
"There is real promise at eventually eradicating breast cancer," she said. "I would say maybe not in the next five or 10 years. But it may happen -- I don't know if in our lifetime."
Still, only a few kinds of cancer are currently cured, and that's often dependent on early detection -- testicular and early stage breast cancer are two of the few examples, Reid said. About 80 percent of lymphomas are cured, Brawley said.
Metastatic lung cancer and metastatic breast cancer, on the other hand, are more likely to one day become "chronic diseases," which would be treated throughout a person's life rather than eliminated, Brawley said.

"Once it's metastasized or spread, you can't really do surgery unless you want to do almost cherry-picking throughout the body, which doesn't really work," he said.
Currently, some breast cancers regress even with chemotherapy. Cancer specialists compare these breast cancers to "a smoldering fire which flares up every once in a while" and requires more water, Brawley said. Extending the amount of time that a person could live like that is a "reasonable goal," he said.

Cancer doctors emphasize that Obama's initiative is a tremendous asset to cancer research.
"I think that all the tools are there -- it's just, we have to do the hard work of testing them, evaluating them, and making them available to patients, Reid said.

Hope and Peace,

55. Great attitude

2009-03-01T18:46:00.003-06:00

"There once was a woman who woke up one morning,
looked in the mirror,
and noticed she had only three hairs on her head.
'Well,' she said, 'I think I'll braid my hair today.'
So she did
and she had a wonderful day.

The next day she woke up,
looked in the mirror
and saw that she had only two hairs on her head.
'Hmmm,' she said,
'I think I'll part my hair down the middle today.'
So she did
and she had a grand day.

The next day she woke up,
looked in the mirror and noticed that she had only one hair on her head.
'Well,' she said,
'Today I'm going to wear my hair in a pony tail.'
So she did
and she had a fun, fun day.

The next day she woke up,
looked in the mirror and noticed that there wasn't a single hair on her head.
'YEA!' she exclaimed,
'I don't have to fix my hair today!'

Attitude is everything.
Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.
Live simply, Love generously, Care deeply, Speak kindly.......

Leave the rest to God. Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain!"

54. Colonic

2009-02-21T16:46:00.005-06:00

February is turning out to be fasting month! Every Wednesday I " juice" fast. I am getting used to it now. No more hunger pains, no more tears, no more fights with my mind. I’m learning tons about myself, and my body. Check this cool ditty out. Our God pod comes with drains. When we eat the SAD diet, breathe in the earth dump or mainline stress and God dammit!, they get clogged. If we keep on truckin’ we back up. Like a stuffy septic tank, the toxins spill out onto our physical and psychological lawns. They have no other place to go. Pee-u!

Speaking of Pee-u, our biggest pathway of elimination is our colon. By removing old waste through colonics, enemas, even the temporary use of certain natural laxatives, we allow our lovely livers to dump (gosh does that phenomenal organ need a break). Here come the dominos! Once our livers dump, our lymph system has a go at it. After the lymph system says AMEN, then our cells receive the invitation. It’s all so magically organized. I love that!

I got my first colonic last week. Holy mother of God! I swore that if I get out of it alive, I will never commit a sin again. It just hurt so badly. Not the part that they stick something into your ass( well that hurt too, but just for a second), but the whole process. I was having so many awful cramps. They say if you never have a relationship with God, there comes a point in your life when you are very much in trouble, and that is when you connect! And I finally did. Only fifteen minutes passed before I was begging for his forgiveness!

But after the whole hour passed, and I walked out of there alive, I felt so fantastic. I felt light and happy, and most important skinny! I don't think I ever saw my stomach that flat! It was just great....Ok, it wasn't long before I forgot my promise, and my evil twin came out again, but big whoop! After all, it was me who took the pain, not God! So, as long as I am concerned, I can do whatever I want.

You should go next... Why?

Because our body, being the wizard chamber that it is, does everything possible to protect itself from the onslaught of acids and poisons. It continually tosses the toxins away from vital organs and into the tissue and streams. What happens next? Sick, fat, pimply, tired and glass half-empty mentality settles in. Then? Dis-ease. Remember, we are what we eat, drink, think and don’t poop. Genetics plays a role in this for sure. But current research suggests that the role is much smaller than we previously thought – about 5-10%. Now that’s food for thought!

Imagine eating meal after stuffing/puffing meal (and snackies), and never properly eliminating. Clearly, we back up and shut down. We bloat and float. The mind gets mad, the moods flip-flop, our sex drive withers, our jeans look lumpy. Enter the self-esteem prison wardens. They SUCK! Never a nice word passes from their chapped lips. No matter what you do, you are never enough.

Have you been taught that abuse is love? Whether we do it to ourselves or give others permission to flog, this learned behavior is a byproduct of our twisted domestication. If we are pure sunshine and God breeze then why on earth would we allow anyone (including ourselves) to trample the glow? Perhaps the road back to the house of health is long. Big whoop! You can do it. But as I have learned, it takes a willingness to be exposed. Shedding hurts. Shedding makes you shiver. Shedding sloughs the barnacles and reveals the cherry red vintage mustang. Are we really protecting ourselves by staying same ole same ole?

Drink your green juice ladies and gents! If you’re feasting today remember to stay on schedule. 4-5 quarts of greens with a little lemon, apple or pear (if you need it for taste). Keep it light and bright but nourish yourself. Drink lots! and get your colonic!

Peace and nudity,

Tetika

53. New Discovery!

2009-02-09T20:37:00.003-06:00

I just read this today, and found it facinating:

[Scientists in Japan have identified an enzyme which appears to suppress breast cancer and they hope the finding will spur new therapies to control the second most common cancer in the world.At issue is the enzyme CHIP, which experts say can stunt cancer growth by degrading a number of cancer-causing proteins. The enzyme occurs naturally in human breast tissue.In an article published in Nature Cell Biology, the scientists said they injected two kinds of human breast cancer cells into mice. One set carried the CHIP enzyme and the other was without the chemical. Tumors in the first group of mice with the CHIP enzyme were far smaller than the one without the enzyme, Junn Yanagisawa at the University of Tsukuba's Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences in Japan told Reuters. The same results were seen in a parallel experiment using a more aggressive line of human breast cancer cells, he added. "Our conclusion is that we have found that CHIP protein prevents breast tumor growth and metastasis," Yanagisawa said. Metastasis occurs when cancer spreads from its site of origin, which challenges therapy and may even result in death. "In breast tumor treatments, measurement of the CHIP protein levels in the tumors may be valuable information for the treatment. Furthermore, designing a new therapy that increases CHIP protein levels or its activity could be useful for breast tumor treatment," Yanagisawa said].

Hope and happiness!!

52. David!!!

2009-01-28T12:53:00.009-06:00

Even though I swore I was going to join the gym , and go everyday- I didn't. Well, I did join a gym, but never attended!! The truth is I hate gyms. I don't like being stared at while bopping up and down on exercise furniture. Most people look at gym machines and immediately know how to use them. I look at a gym machines and feel like calling my doctor to get some zanac. Just depressing! The twisted metal intimidates me. Give me a yoga mat, put me into a pretzel, no problemo. Tell me to lift weights and do 200 sit ups, absolutely fine. Ask me to do cardio on a moving apparatus - game over. My inner voice tell me to run my ass! My favorite doctor used to ask me whether I wanted to be right or happy. In this case - happy - and since my inner voice is always so annoyingly right, I gave up on it.

Three weeks ago, I got down to the basement and started the work out. Not the cardio though( I am not there yet!!), just weights, abs, and working with the exercise ball that I named David, as for David Beckham! I thought that might bring some excitement to that basement, and my work out time!
David is bouncy, lovely, and huge. Prior to David I was convinced I had no space in the basement. The weights were fine, perhaps a stripper pole, but that's it! Then my lovely inner voice said the magic words that unlocked the magic ah ha. "This is the year of your body. Don't look at it like an eye sore, see your -ball- as an altar. Put your feathers, lights and spiritual crap on it and move your damn ass!" DING.

In that moment I realized just how tightly my excuses grip me. I can convince myself of the craziest things. Now I have NO excuse. Now I just have to MOVE. So, welcome David, hello Barbie thighs, hello Madonna - I want to look like you when I'm 50! Scratch that, I want to look like you when I'm 40. MADONNA'S ass is going on my vision board. I LOVE Madonna.

So, Now that David is in my life, exercise is an every-other day affair. OH YES! YES! YES! Though our love is still so new, so fragile, our sessions are getting harder and deeper and more lusciously satisfying. For the past few weeks Oprah kept us going. Yes, we had a three some with Oprah! ( Ok, that sounded gross! Not the threesome part, the Oprah part!)

Maybe you should name your work out equipments to bring you some excitement!! Now, every time I work out I can say" I am gonna go downstairs to pound my new man. I am going to bounce on David. I am going to ride him until I can't breath!!"...Doesn't that sound much better than "Let's loose weight?"

51.Honey and cancer prevention/treatment (#2)

2009-01-28T10:41:00.003-06:00

Have you ever heard of LIFE MEL HONEY? The bees are fed through a spacial medicated diet to produce a special honey, which has helped so many cancer patients through out chemotherapy by regulating their blood cell counts. An Israeli company makes this product. It costs $80 per jar, but apparently is worth every penny. Watch it on YouTube via the link below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ffook2he62A

50. Honey and cancer prevention/treatment (#1)

2009-01-28T10:25:00.002-06:00

Hi beauties: I read this article online, and thought it wouldn't hurt to post it here:
"Recipe for Aloe Vera/Honey Treatment against Cancer

Ingredients

A) 300 grams of Aloe Vera(fresh pulp of the leaf)^*B) 500 grams of bee honey (pure honey)
C) 4 - 5 tablespoons of rum or whisky

Preparation

1)Wash the Aloe vera leaf (or leaves) and remove the thorns. Cut into pieces.
2)Put the Aloe vera pieces, the honey and whisky (or rum) in a blender or extractor.
3)Whisk for 2 to 3 minutes.

You will obtain a greenish syrup. The amount of syrup obtained by the above quantities of the three elements constitutes a "processing unit". Keep the syrup refrigerated.

Use

Before drinking the syrup, shake the bottle to thoroughly mix the components.
Take one tablespoon of this syrup three times a day: mornings, noon and night, 1/2 hour before meals.
The above preparation can last about ten days.
Don't stop taking the "processing unit" until it is totally used up (even if you get what seem to be signs of improvement).

Medical Checkup

It's very important to do medical tests to ascertain the progress (or lack thereof) of the above treatment concerning the disease.
It is specifically necessary to check before, during and after the treatment to know if the cancer still progresses, has been stabilized, diminishes, or has actually left. Only the results of such controls can determine the true state of the cancer, not the subjective feelings of improvement that might be felt by the cancer patients. In fact, it is commonly observed that this treatment quickly induces a certain sensation of well-being and improvement in the sick person. But those feelings don't constitute any proof that the cancer is truly cured. It is dangerous to let oneself be guided by any such sensations.

Duration of the Treatment

As mentioned, medical monitoring is very important. If the first "round of treatment" does not work to satisfaction, the patient must do checkups to determine where s/he is at and whether s/he must do a second (or third) round. It would be ideal to make an initial analysis of the "amount" of cancer present before beginning the treatment, and another analysis after each "processing unit" has been taken.

VERY IMPORTANT NOTE

When taking several "processing units" in a row, it is necessary to keep an interval of TEN DAYS between the taking of one unit and the following due to the Aloe Vera (sábila) plant being somewhat toxic. With these intervals of ten days, repeated ingestion of "processing units" will do no harm. For this reason, in case the recommended medical tests cannot be done, one is in no any danger (and has no reason to be fearful) when repeating the treatment (even when unnecessary), as long as the 10-day "syrup-free" interval is respected.
May be used simultaneously with conventional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation.

After a round of treatment (or "processing unit"), one of five scenarios may apply:

1) The cancer continues growing, there is no sign of a cure.

Take another unit of treatment.

2) After two processing units have been taken, the cancer continues growing.

Double the dose, i.e. take the syrup as before in the morning, at noon and at night but this time, take two spoonfuls before each meal. Repeat this double dose until the cancer stops.

3) The cancer no longer grows and has effectively stopped: a good sign.

Take another round of a normal "processing unit". That is ... take one spoonful again, morning, noon and night, before each meal.

4) The cancer diminishes: a very good sign.

Undertake a new treatment round of ten days, and repeat it when necessary, until the cancer completely disappears.

5) The cancer has completely disappeared. Cases in which a single "processing unit" proves to be sufficient to eliminate the cancer are very frequent.

In this case, you can do two things: cease the treatment for good, or take yet another round of "processing unit".

The food you eat and avoid is of vital importance

Eat plenty of raw foods :
broccoli, sprouts, cauliflower, kale, garlic, beans, blueberries, onions, ginger, spirulina, chlorella, fresh fruits, etc.
Avoid :
dairy products, refined sugar, artificial colouring, chemicals, sweeteners, white flour, red meat, processed meat, etc.

Aloe vera honey syrup for preventative purposes

Lastly, you can take a "processing unit" even when you don't have any symptom of cancer, simply for PREVENTION."

49. Yes, We can!

2009-01-21T10:58:00.003-06:00

To say that last week was AWFUL is to put it mildly. I think I hit an all-time low and for about 24 hours I questioned whether or not I wanted to...

1. Saw off my fingers so I could never write again.
2. Burn every work related papers.
3. Over dose on raw chocolate AND wine.
4. Trade sexual favors for party favors.
5. Get high on weed.
6. Die my hair black and hit the highway - with CIGS!
7. Dust off my resume and send it to QVC.
8. Find a cult somewhere, join and buy some repressed flowered dress.
9. Shoplift at Neiman - just a lip gloss, nothing big.
10. Go off the grid, live off the land, and NEVER pay my taxes or bills again. Bascially, embrace the warrants for my arrest. "BRING IT ON!"

Ok, I know this all sounds a little dramatic but the truth is, I am kinda extreme. My temper has been shorter than a wick on a candle. In these times (and I know you've all been there) I literally have to have a come to JBEO (Jesus, Buddha, Elvis, Oprah) with myself. "What's really going on here destruct-o-sassy?" Well, tons of things that I'm not gonna go into because I would literally fall asleep blogging. My problems are an excruciating BORE and I don't want to marinate in them.

So last night my daughter told me to check out the Inaugural Ball. HOLY SHITAKE! Now, that was inspiring. It was just what the doctor ordered, a prescription to SNAP OUT OF IT! And so I did. It was that easy. I changed my mind. The cup is running over, spilling everywhere and making a beautiful poet mess.

Today we have a new man in the office. A new man, an inspired man, will be leading our country back to sanity and "Yes We Can". Obama is so cool he even earned a spot on my vision board. I placed him there to remind me to be diplomatic and to reach into the next universe. It's possible. All of it. Every dream. Possible as long as I see it, feel it, believe it, GO FOR IT.

I welcome the buoyant spring in my step and I'm gonna take advantage of it! work out( this time for real!), eat healthy( mostly greens), Be Kind, and GO FOR IT!

I know why I've been a pimple, I want to be somewhere I'm not (yet) and I'm an impatient child about it. Growing up is sticky and sweet.

Peace and love,

48. Detoxing-2

2009-01-05T14:01:00.005-06:00

Helo Beauties:

Holidays are gone. Now what? Are we going to sit around with an extra 20 pounds on our asses, or take control? How about our second fast festival?

Do you want to flush toxins out of your system, but don't want the weakness and fatigue associated with a water-only fast? You might want to try a detoxifying juice fast. These fasts are excellent because they keep your metabolism working, but still give you the benefits of a fast.

First, before starting any type of fast, check with your doctor to make sure you will not be putting yourself at a risk for adverse health affects. Also, pregnant or nursing women should not participate in fasts. In addition, you should go for no more than three days on a juice detox diet. If you want to use these juices only to supplement your regular diet, however, they are excellent for long term use.

The basic idea of a juice fast is that all the foods you eat are juiced. The idea is that this liquid only diet gives your body's digestive system a chance to rest and rejuvenate. It also allows the body to use its energy repairing itself instead of having to concentrate on constantly digesting food. Detox juice recipes generally call for a variety of fruits and vegetables that give your body the fuel it needs, while also supplying antioxidants like vitamins A, C and E which aid your body in the process of cleansing itself. In order to get all you can out of your juices, you should start with fresh fruits and vegetables. No frozen from concentrate juice or canned vegetables, please.

If you are interested in detox juices, here are a few recipes you might want to try. The first detox juice recipe is a vegetable juice combo. It calls for 2 Swiss chard leaves, ½ of a beetroot, 2 or 3 sprigs of watercress, 3 carrots and 1 celery stalk. Carrot/apple juice is made from 2-3 green apples, 1 carrot and fresh basil leaves. Carrot/vegetable juice requires a handful of dandelion leaves, 1 kale leaf, 4 carrots and fresh mint leaves. To make the juice, all ingredients in each recipe should be washed with filtered or distilled water, cut up and then put in a juicer.

If you prefer fruits over the taste of vegetable juices, here is an easy, but extremely effective detox juice recipe that uses fruits only. Just cut up some lemons and limes, juice them and mix them into a glass of water. These fruits contain vitamin C which helps boost the immune system and the combination of lemons and limes is great for cleansing both the kidneys and liver. Another good juice combination is orange juice, with grapefruits or limes. This combination also packs a massive punch of vitamin C. You might also check out the combination of mango, pineapple and lemon juice. This mix is great for the digestive tract. Feel free to experiment with other fruit combinations until you find a favorite mix. As long as your fruits are fresh, they will contain the nutrients your body needs to cleanse and repair itself.

*****If you think this is too much to handle for you, then go to step 2. These are What you should totally avoid while detoxing:

Sugar

Includes sugar, products containing sugar, and hidden forms of sugar, such as sucrose, dextrose, corn syrup, brown sugar, and turbinado. Artificial sweeteners are usually not recommended. Stevia and erythritol are allowed natural sweeteners.

Dairy Products

Milk, butter, cream cheese, sour cream, and other dairy products.

Wheat

Wheat and products containing wheat, such as pasta and bread.

Gluten

All gluten-containing grains: wheat (including spelt, triticale, and kamut), rye, and barley.

Coffee

*******Now, who is in? We will start on Wednesday of this week.

47. Cancer soon will be the number one cause of death!!!

2008-12-10T18:31:00.003-06:00

This was on the news today:

Cancer will overtake heart disease as the world's top killer by 2010, part of a trend that should more than double global cancer cases and deaths by 2030, international health experts said in a report released Tuesday. Rising tobacco use in developing countries is believed to be a huge reason for the shift, particularly in China and India, where 40 percent of the world's smokers now live.

So is better diagnosing of cancer, along with the downward trend in infectious diseases that used to be the world's leading killers.

Cancer diagnoses around the world have steadily been rising and are expected to hit 12 million this year. Global cancer deaths are expected to reach 7 million, according to the new report by the World Health Organization.

An annual rise of 1 percent in cases and deaths is expected — with even larger increases in China, Russia and India. That means new cancer cases will likely mushroom to 27 million annually by 2030, with deaths hitting 17 million.

Underlying all this is an expected expansion of the world's population — there will be more people around to get cancer.

By 2030, there could be 75 million people living with cancer around the world, a number that many health care systems are not equipped to handle.

"This is going to present an amazing problem at every level in every society worldwide," said Peter Boyle, director of the WHO's International Agency for Research on Cancer.

Boyle spoke at a news conference with officials from the American Cancer Society, the Lance Armstrong Foundation, Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the National Cancer Institute of Mexico.

The "unprecedented" gathering of organizations is an attempt to draw attention to the global threat of cancer, which isn't recognized as a major, growing health problem in some developing countries.

"Where you live shouldn't determine whether you live," said Hala Moddelmog, Komen's chief executive.

The organizations are calling on governments to act, asking the U.S. to help fund cervical cancer vaccinations and to ratify an international tobacco control treaty.

Concerned about smoking's impact on cancer rates in developing countries in the decades to come, the American Cancer Society also announced it will provide a smoking cessation counseling service in India.

"If we take action, we can keep the numbers from going where they would otherwise go," said John Seffrin, the cancer society's chief executive officer.

Other groups are also voicing support for more action.

"Cancer is one of the greatest untold health crises of the developing world," said Dr. Douglas Blayney, president-elect of the American Society of Clinical Oncology.

"Few are aware that cancer already kills more people in poor countries than HIV, malaria and tuberculosis combined. And if current smoking trends continue, the problem will get significantly worse," he said in a written statement.

46. Breaking news!

2008-11-17T13:53:00.002-06:00

Like we didn't have enough problems, that now the scientists came out with a new statement:

*******[If breast cancer runs in the family, women can be at high risk even if they test free of the disease's most common gene mutations, sobering new research shows.The genes BRCA1 and BRCA2 are linked with particularly aggressive hereditary breast cancer, and an increased risk of ovarian cancer, too. When a breast cancer patient is found to carry one of those gene mutations, her relatives tend to breathe a sigh of relief if they test gene-free.But those headline-grabbing genes account for only about 15 percent of all breast cancer cases. Even in families riddled with breast cancer, a BRCA gene is the culprit only in roughly one family of every five that gets tested, said University of Toronto cancer specialist Dr. Steven Narod.So clearly members of those families remain at risk from other yet-to-be-found genes, but how much risk?Narod tracked nearly 1,500 women from 365 breast cancer-prone families, who tested negative for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations.After five years, those women had a fourfold higher risk than average women of developing breast cancer, Narod reported Monday at a meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research.This is crucial information for women considering gene testing, said Georgetown University genetics counselor Beth Peshkin, who wasn't part of the study."This is contrary to what I think the common perception is," Peshkin said. "Unless a mutation is identified in the family, a negative test result doesn't provide reassurance."The good news: Narod's study showed these women didn't have an increased risk of ovarian cancer, like BRCA1- and BRCA2-carriers do.While the $3,000 BRCA tests are well-accepted, newer tests for other genes linked to breast cancer are coming on the market.But "the family history is a much stronger predictor," stressed Narod. He recommends that such women take the anti-cancer drug tamoxifen and undergo MRI cancer checkups instead of easier mammograms "regardless of what other gene tests showed."]

45. Must known information about breast cancer

2008-11-15T13:40:00.007-06:00

****What is breast cancer?

Collections of cells that are growing abnormally or without control are called tumors( which I call little shits!). Tumors that do not have the ability to spread throughout the body may be referred to as “benign” and are not thought of as cancerous. Tumors that have the ability to grow into other tissues or spread to distant parts of the body are referred to as “malignant.”( or holly sit!) Malignant tumors within the breast are called “breast cancer”. Theoretically, any of the types of tissue in the breast can form a cancer, cancer cells are most likely to develop from either the ducts or the glands. These tumors may be referred to as “invasive ductal carcinoma” (cancer cells developing from ducts), or “invasive lobular carcinoma” (cancer cells developing from lobes).

****What are the signs of breast cancer?

Unfortunately, the early stages of breast cancer may not have any symptoms( that is why you have to exam yourself). As a tumor grows in size, it can produce a variety of symptoms including:

lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
change in size or shape of the breast
nipple discharge or nipple turning inward
redness or scaling of the skin or nipple
ridges or pitting of the breast skin

****Stages of breast cancer?

Stage 0 (called carcinoma in situ)

Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) refers to abnormal cells lining a gland in the breast. This is a risk factor for the future development of cancer, but this is not felt to represent a cancer itself.

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) refers to abnormal cells lining a duct. Women with DCIS have an increased risk of getting invasive breast cancer in that breast. Treatment options are similar to patients with Stage I breast cancers.

Stage I : early stage breast cancer where the tumor is less that 2 cm, and hasn't spread beyond the breast ( this is what I had)

Stage II : early stage breast cancer in which the tumor is either less than 2 cm across and has spread to the lymph nodes under the arm; or the tumor is between 2 and 5 cm (with or without spread to the lymph nodes under the arm); or the tumor is greater than 5 cm and hasn't spread outside the breast

Stage III : locally advanced breast cancer in which the tumor is greater than 5 cm across and has spread to the lymph nodes under the arm; or the cancer is extensive in the underarm lymph nodes; or the cancer has spread to lymph nodes near the breastbone or to other tissues near the breast

Stage IV : metastatic breast cancer in which the cancer has spread outside the breast to other organs in the breast

****Grades of breast cancer?

Grade I : very slow growing

Grade II : intermediate

Grade III : Very fast growing ( This is what I had)

Touch yourself!

knowledge & health

44. Alcohol and Breast cancer

2008-11-09T18:02:00.003-06:00

Careful studies have found that regular, moderate use of alcohol affects the levels of important female hormones, especially for postmenopausal women whose bodies make much less estrogen and progesterone than before they entered menopause. One study carefully monitored the food and alcohol consumed by a group of postmenopausal women. A form of estrogen in the blood increased in the women who drank alcohol compared to the women who did not receive alcohol as part of their diet. Taking the equivalent of one drink a day increased the hormone levels; taking the equivalent of two drinks a day increased the levels even more.That means that the breast cells were exposed to higher levels of estrogen if the women consumed alcohol. This may in turn trigger the cells, which are estrogen sensitive in these women, to become cancerous.

Other studies have examined the role of the vitamin folate in either decreasing or preventing breast cancer in women who drink alcoholic beverages.There have been reports that folate may counteract the effect of alcohol on increased breast cancer risk. Other studies found that women who had more than one alcoholic drink daily and who took less than the recommended daily amount of folate had much a much higher risk of breast cancer than women with the same alcohol intake, but who had adequate folate in their diet.

***These are the folate source:

Grains

Fortified breakfast cereal
Whole wheat products

Meat and Beans

Liver
Eggs
Beans
Sunflower seeds

Vegetables—Excellent Source!

Asparagus
Leafy green vegetables

Fruits

Oranges
Strawberries
Cantaloupes and other melons

***P.S: Milk, Yogurt, Cheese, Fats, Oils, and Sweets are poor sources of folate!

43. Fashion and Cancer

2008-10-19T12:32:00.002-05:00

Going through cancer, chemo, fatigue, and hair loss is a very painful experience. In addition to the physical struggles, it comes the financial problems for many people specially the ones who are denied through their insurance companies.
Here are some great websites for some bargains. Stay stylish while kicking cancer's ass!

For designer discounts:

Yoox.com
SmartBargains.com

Other great websites:

TheBudgetBabe.com
TheCheapChica.blogspot.com
ShopGoodwill.com ( they have great vintage jewels)
eyeslipface.com (make up)

Style and health!

42. Breast cancer awarness month

2008-09-23T09:31:00.002-05:00

Hello ladies-
The whole month of October is dedicated to breast cancer. This is the time to take this disease more seriously, if you haven't by now. Please go to your doctors to get your mammograms done, do self exams, read about BC, and watch the programs on TV. I was one of you who never thought breast cancer could ever happen to me. But it did, and it can happen to you. So, touch yourself!

Love and health

41. I am married!!

2008-09-16T09:36:00.003-05:00

Yes, indeed!!!! On August 16th of 2008, I married my best friend. Do you think I would ever allow cancer to crash my party? I have plan to live until I am 90! So, back off cancer. I have too many things that I have planned for my life, and you are certainly not included.

40. Protein

2008-09-16T08:45:00.003-05:00

Protein or not protein? That is the question!
For all you vegan babes, raw dieters, and vegetarians, that is always the question.
The first source of protein are Legumes. Legumes top the list for great sources of vegan and vegetarian foods with protein. These include beans, lentils, and soy products such as tofu and tempeh. Nuts, seeds and nut butters are also fantastic foods with protein that you should include in your diet.
There are some ideas:

Combine grains with legumes (black beans and rice, for example).
Corn can be combined with legumes, such as pinto beans, in a corn tortilla.
Add chopped green vegetables and almonds to pasta.
Whole wheat toast with peanut butter will give you a complete protein snack.
Try bean soup with whole grain vegan crackers.

A bigger problem for a vegan may be getting enough vitamin B12, which you can take as supplement.
Another source of protein is called HEMP protein. It comes as powder and seeds and it is not cheap either. However, it is worth the money since it is so rich in protein.
So, eat the healthy stuff, and be well!

39. Happy anniversary Tetika!

2008-07-17T14:40:00.003-05:00

Last year today, I was diagnosed with breast cancer, and my life has changed forever. You would think that I must be very sad today. However, it is the exact opposite. I am very excited. I am healthy,happy, and am going to celebrate the day. Every year that passes, I am getting further away from July 17th of 2007, and that means less chance of ever have to deal with cancer again. Thank you for all the support that you have been giving me through my journey. I can't wait to celebrate my 58th anniversary with all of you( I think living for 90 years should be enough!)

PS: This picture was taken 1 year after diagnosis, 7 months after the last chemo, and 4 months after the last radiation.

38. Hope

2008-06-19T20:27:00.002-05:00

I am in Arkansas now on a business trip. While here, I talked to a lady( Katie) whose daughter passed away of cancer when she was only 23 years old. I had a long conversation with her, and this is what I got out of our conversation:
1. Telling people you love them even though there is so much poison that you think you hate them. Once you say it you burst open with white joy and then you miss the time lost in the negative.
2. Doing things that make you really scared but really exhilarated.
3. Muting the voice in your head that is always worried, always tentative, always keeping you in the land of stuck. "Fuck it". "Just do it". GO.
4. Saying no to people who only take.
5. Saying yes to people who give you as much as you give them.
6. Opening your heart so wide that you touch a space that is unknown, uncomfortable and exposed. Staying in that space. Holding it. Holding it. Ahhhh.
7. Turning addictions into accomplishments. Nothing has you in it's grips. You are the grips.
8. Service to God/Goddess( or anything that brings peace to your heart). Everything else will fall into place.
9. Sacred sweat, lots of it. Dance till you bleed. Laughing so loud someone complains.
10. Forgiving the world and then making it better.

If everyone you meet is a teacher then this lady was the ultimate sage. She adored ALL BEINGS. It was weird. She was sent to me for this very purpose. To teach me how to allow unconditional love in. I give it, but don't receive too much. Not that love isn't all around me. It is. I'm just very protective . Now, after meeting Katie, thought, there is so much endless thanks. I can't be thankful enough for her to pop in to my life. Meeting her was a true gift.

37.Oprah and cleansing!

2008-06-09T14:13:00.002-05:00

As you have all heard by now, Oprah is two weeks into a three-week vegan cleanse.

Check out what Lady Oprah's cuttin' out:
* Sugar
* Alcohol
* Caffeine
* Gluten
* All animal products
For many of you who would like to cleanse but don't want to try a juice fast this is a great way to go. 3 weeks without any of the stuffy mucus stuff can change your life, transform your health, and open your eyes to how good you CAN feel. Seems like a huge task at first but with each passing day you'll notice a new kind of sustainable energy (after the detox symptoms pass that is).
Inspired by Oprah, I'm gearing up for another cleanse myself. The last time I fasted was in May with the fantastic fasting team.
I have been traveling for work more lately. Traveling makes it more complicated when salads come in the shape of jello molds! What is THAT sir? It's definitely challenging to keeping up healthy eating on the road. If I do anything in this life I will master the art of the kitchen nap sack! I bring my powders and supplements, lots of water, some almonds/walnuts, a few raw snack bars, and my green tea . I tend to rely on fruit which I don't do when I'm on my home routine.
More than half of all Americans die of heart disease or cancer and two thirds are over weight.
As stewards of the environment we no can longer sit back and watch as our trees, rivers, land, oceans and fellow creatures disappear at shocking levels.
Clearly there is both an inner and outer global warming taking place. The difference between Illness and wellness is reflected in the spelling – “I” Illness – “We” Wellness. The part always equals the whole and the ripple effect should never be underestimated.
To read all about Oprah's 3-week vegan cleanse and join the discussion, go to:
http://www2.oprah.com/foodhome/food/cleanse/blog/blog_1.jhtml

Keep up the good work!
Love and health

36.Why am I doing this?

2008-05-27T21:53:00.002-05:00

I was asked so many times ,"why are you doing this?"..Why are you writing?..Why do you talk to people about this?

Because simply said, CANCER SUCKS, and the treatment for it, chemotherapy in particular, SUCKS ASS WORSE! I chose to become another voice, another "force to be reckoned with", joining my many peers in this battle to find out WHAT CAUSES breast cancer, especially in younger women in their teens, twenties and thirties!?! We don't know exactly how to prevent it from occurring but we do know what we can do to monitor our bodies and catch it early if bitten by the ugly bug. Frankly, I am PISSED OFF that I have to live with this non-stop irritating, anxiety ridden, panic attack havin', reoccurring bastard of a disease. WTF!?! Well, I can assure you I am doing everything I can to keep in quiet and asleep in my body so that I don’t piss "it" off to where it comes back with a vengeance. And if it does, sadly for "IT", it will be war time... AGAIN!!! Cancer does not discriminate girls!! Cancer loves our boobs just as much as our partners do! Another reason I am speaking out on this issue is because there are very little information out there for YOUNG women with breast cancer. Why is our age bracket not being closely tracked and followed and WHY are we not being included in conducted research studies?? This must change!!! My goal is to reach the masses with this important, educational message that me and so many of my peers are trying to spread. I, like a lot of my young cancer sisters, are trying to put a positive spin on our "pissed offness" and do something with this experience that could possibly be life saving for the other young women that will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the future. It is so extremely important to catch it early. It could make all the difference in the world in one's prognosis. So, I encourage you to continue reading on as this info could be LIFE SAVING for you or someone you know.

35.Hospital gowns

2008-05-07T15:30:00.002-05:00

This post goes only to cancer babes, or anyone who is sick, and have to visit the hospital very often. When you go to get your scans, wear a sports bra with no metal in it. That way when you lift your arm, you don't have to flash your boobs! (unless you want to that)! It doesn't matter how very stylish you are with your Gucci shoes, red hot lipstick, and great jeans that makes your butt look super fabulous, the second you put that gown on, you will feel sick, and style-less. Some hospitals upgraded to pants+gown. But some still rely on bare-backed, easy-exit---or, forbid entry---design. If you are not ok with that, ask for the second robe to wear backward on the first one, and cover yourself that way. Otherwise you will leave NO mystery behind!

34. Relaxation

2008-05-07T10:42:00.002-05:00

Hi beautiful ladies-

I am sorry for not writing for so long! I was on vacation:) I just came back from Mexico. It was certainly a blast. It made me realize how much everyone needs some relaxation time. Sick or not, survivor or a patient, anyone needs some relaxing time to let the body and mind to heal. We get caught up on everyday life and we forget how it is to just BE! When we first got there, I didn't know what to do with myself. It was no shopping, no activities, nothing! You mean I had to lay under the sun and be in the pool for 5 days? Not possible. I was uneasy and uncomfortable! How sad is that? We are so on the go everyday, that we forget how to relax!! But when I learned how to do that, it was fantastic. I needed that so badly.

If you don't have time to take a vacation, hit the park. Go for a relaxing walk, throw a blanket down, and do some yoga. Free your mind from all the craziness in your life. Think of YOURSELF. For once. Or you might want to stay at home. Then light up some candles, close your eyes, listen to the relaxing music. I can promise you that you will feel like a million box after that.

I posted a picture of our view from our bedroom in Mexico. It was just unbelievable.

33. More information on wheatgrass

2008-04-24T15:51:00.002-05:00

This weekened I saw my friend Rebecca. She had mentioned to me that she is interested in growing her own wheatgrass in her yard. Well, sweety, more power to you. I can never be that good! So, here it is some video clips on all benefits of wheatgrass juice, and also how to grow it.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=MWHxtv6r3NA

http://youtube.com/watch?v=teXsyVIYivA&feature=related

http://youtube.com/watch?v=25dw4_X-_nA&feature=related

http://youtube.com/watch?v=0tf93zV7F3Q&feature=related

32. Life lesson

2008-04-20T09:41:00.003-05:00

Good sunday pretties-

My friend Cat sent me an email the other day, which I thought to share it with all of you. Take it away sweety:

"A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her.She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up, she was tired of fighting and struggling.It seemed as one problem was solved, a new one arose.Her mother took her to the kitchen.She filled three pots with water and placed each on a high fire. Soon the pots came to boil.In the first she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in thelast she placed ground coffee beans.She let them sit and boil; without saying a word.In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners.She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl.She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl.Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl.Turning to her daughter, she said 'Tell me what you see?'Carrots, eggs, and coffee, she replied.Her mother brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots.She did and noted that they were soft.The mother then asked the daughter to take an egg and break it.After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard boiled egg.Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee.The daughter smiled as she tasted its rich aroma.The daughter then asked, 'What does it mean, mother?'Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity: boiling water. Each reacted differently.The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting.However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak.The egg had been fragile.Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened.The ground coffee beans were unique, however.After they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water.'Which are you?' she asked her daughter.When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean??Think of this: Which am I?
Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity, do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength?Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but after a death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff?Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and hardened heart?Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain.When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor.Like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you.When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest, do you elevate yourself to another level? How do you handle adversity? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?May you have enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human and enough hope to make you happy.The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way.The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can't go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling.Live your life so at the end, you're the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying".

31.Natural progesterone cream

2008-04-19T18:10:00.002-05:00

Before I was diagnosed, I used to use ARBONNE'S natural progesterone cream. It helps you with your mood, PMS, bloating, cramps, and many more things. It also will get rid of all the ovarian cysts and uterus fibroids. After my diagnosis, the doctors told me I had to stop using it. Just in case!! Why? My tumor was (pr-) anyway! As the result of that all of my symptoms came back. So, I decided to search it more, and this is the article I came across to:

"In an important study reported by Johns Hopkins University in the American Journal of Epidemiology, women were first measured for their estrogen and progesterone levels and then placed in two separate groups to monitor their susceptibility to cancers. Findings proved quite interesting: A test was run for 40 years. They found when the group with the "low progesterone" was compared to the group with "normal progesterone", the low progesterone group had (approximately) 5 1/2 times the risk of breast cancer!!! Further conclusion was that "low progesterone" participants encountered a ten fold increase in deaths from all types of cancer, compared with the "normal progesterone" group. This should have been great headline news!!! However, according to Dr. John Lee, the important test results were not distributed or publicized. Why? Can you imagine the thousands of women who might have avoided the dreaded disease of cancer, and even the difficulties of menopause, through natural prevention? Instead, women were given little hope - or choice - by their doctors except the radical methods of radiation, chemotherapy, and/or surgery".

Yep, again, you have to educate YOURSELF, and not totally rely on the doctors.

30. Chemo Bride

2008-04-17T15:09:00.002-05:00

Loves-

Check this video clip out. It will make you laugh, cry, and amazes you by the courage that we- women- can have. This lady was diagnosed with breast cancer, and gets married in the middle of the chemoterapy. She will sing this song for the guests on this video. You have to check it out. You will love it.

Cheers to all of us women, for being so fabulous.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3GcuZjdW6uk&feature=related

29. Young women and breast cancer!

2008-04-17T14:56:00.002-05:00

Ladies-

Please check this out. It is a video clip on a 30 year old beautiful girl ( Stefanie LaRue) who was MISDIAGNOSED for breast cancer, and they the she finally was diagnosed, she was stage 4 already!! This sends a very important message. Please watch it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NBqCqHWILA0

28. Watrmelon smoothie

2008-04-16T16:12:00.002-05:00

Recipe for a great smoothie while you are fasting:

-Watermelon

-cucumber

-Fresh mint

-Ice

Put them all in the blender. It is great.

27. To fast or not to fast?

2008-04-16T16:01:00.003-05:00

Hello to my barve fating team -

Today is the second day of fasting. It has not been easy. Yesterday was a lot better. Today, on the other hand, not much! I am hanging in there though. If there is anyone who is suffering and wants to quite, feel free to do so. No one will hold it against you. I know , specially if you want to go from eating everything to fast this way, it is difficult. But if you want to continue, just hang in there tight:) Post your comments on what you are eating, so others can use it too. Also, if you have any motivational words to say, please be my guest.

Love and health

26. A great quote #2

2008-04-16T15:39:00.003-05:00

"Women are like apples on trees. The best ones are at the top of the tree. Most men don't want to reach for the good ones because they are afraid of falling and getting hurt. Instead, they sometimes take apples from the ground that aren't as good, but easy. the apples at the top think something is wrong with them, when in reality, they're amazing. They just have to wait for the right man to come along, the one who's brave enough to climb all the way to the top of the tree. men, on the other hand, are like fine wine.they begin as grapes, and it's up to women to stomp the shit out of them until they run into something acceptable to have dinner with".

25. A breakthrough in finding the cure!!

2008-04-14T11:52:00.002-05:00

Loves-

I am over the moon ! I have NEVER been this excited in my life. I just read an article on a new discovery on the cure for cancer, which was emailed to me by a cancer babe. This one is just amazing. I quickly went online and watched a little video clip on the CBS website. The machine is called The KANZIUS MACHINE, named after its founder John Kanzius. He has had the terminal Leukemia for the last 6 years. He has no college degree, and no science background! He is a businessman who used to build radios. He invented a machine that works with radio frequency to kill cancer, and then he spend $200,000 of his own money to build the scientific version of it. So far, the scientists gave it a 2 thumbs up, since it has worked on animals. It kills the tumor right away in animals. Now, they are looking to find a away of injecting it to the blood stream of humans, to treat the metastatic cancers. This invention has NO SIDE EFFECTS!!! That means no more chemo, no radiation, no sickness. The machine will be used for HUMAN trails in 4 years. The founder of it though might not have that much time, since he has leukemia. When I watched it, I cried. This invention means NO ONE has to EVER suffer from what I suffered. No one has to go through what I went through. I am beyond excited.

This will be showed on April 20th on CBS. For now you can check the video out on:

http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/60minutes/main3415.shtml

There also will be another great program to watch. A 2 hour documentary on PBC( KETC-channel 9-Saint Louis), on April 16th at 8pm which is called "The truth about cancer".

Love, and Cure

24. Children of cancer

2008-04-11T15:11:00.002-05:00

When you have cancer, You are not the only person who is scared. Your kids are too, and they needs understanding and kindness more than ever. Kids wonder what cancer is, how you get it,and if they can catch it. One of the silliest question my child asked me when I told her I had to get chemo was" Are you going to smell? Chemo patient LOOK smelly!!" Only a kid can think that way!

They will worry too. They are scared of loosing you.

When I first was diagnosed, one of my biggest fear was " How do I tell my daughter?" I was so sad for her. My heart went to her and how she could handle the news. She was with her father at that time, on her summer vacation. I picked her up one day to take care back to Saint Louis to stay with me, and so I could break the news to her.

-" Sweetheart, Do you remember I told you they were examine the little cyst the took out of my breast to see what it was?

-" Yes, what was it?"

-"Well,...."

-" Was it cancer?"

My mouth dropped!!! How in the hell did she know that? She was only 11!!!

-" Yes, it was"..........She stared at me for a while. Her eyes teared up. She didn't know what to do. And finally she said" I can't believe my mommy has cancer!! "

Still to this day, talking about moment, crushes my heart....

She held my hand and said" Mom, you are going to loose your hair"

-" I know baby, it will come back again though"

She never said anything after that! She never asked me if I was going to die. I guess she expected me to live. I looked way too healthy. She was in shock. Then it went 4 months for me without seeing her. She came back for Christmas. She was horrified when she saw me. Who she saw didn't look anything like me. I had no hair, no lashes, no eyebrows. I looked like an alien( or at least that is what I thought)

But again she never said anything. She laughed with me, hung out with me. We went shopping. I could barley walk, but I wanted her to have a nice Christmas. When she wass going back to her dad, She cried. She looked at me in the eyes and said" you will be ok mom"...and right there,I knew I would be.

From day one, I fought for HER. She was my strength. Even though, she wasn't there to see it. I tried to be honest with her. I told her everything about the silly disease. I wanted her to feel safe knowing I was telling her everything.

Tell your children the truth. They might get scared, angry, sad, or confused. But that is common. Meanwhile cover them with the blanket of your love, and let them know how much you love them.

23. PH!

2008-04-09T14:49:00.003-05:00

So many of you emailed me or called with this question: How do we measure our PH? Well, There is one test you can try at home. The direction is in the box. It is called ALKALIVE PH STIX, and it is cost $10( includes 80 sticks) . You can test your PH via saliva or urine.

Also, if you are in for fasting, I have great recipes for the juices.

1)Kale, celery, spinach, cucumber, pear, GREEN apple.( I also add one shot of wheat grass juice, either frozen or not)

Then I reward myself ( for inhaling the first juice, since it is not too easy to do!) with this yummy one:

2)Carrot, blueberry, RED grape. You can addcherry to this one too.

3) Mango, pear, blueberry.

4)cantaloupe smoothie( cantaloupe, ice) in blender. If you like you can add some Stevia ( It is a sweet herb, instead of sugar)

Anyone else has any recipes?

22. Fasting!

2008-04-09T12:06:00.004-05:00

Good day survivor bunnies!

"I decided to fast for just a few days. Healthy fasting. We're all so attached to food for so many different reasons that the idea of skipping solids brings waves of panic and visions of hospitalization. Why do I want to fast though? Here's the deal. Our body is healthy when is more alkaline than acidic. when we eat bad foods, or drink alcohol, we put our body in the acidic stage. Cancer drives on that!!! Once in a while, we should empty out all the acids in the body. I call that GREEN FASTING. Don't fast without nutrition though. It's that simple. water, maple syrup, cayenne, vinegar - THAT AIN'T nutrition. Fast one day every week, consuming only freshly squeezed green drinks, vegetable juices, purified water, herbal teas. These fasting days will allow any potential long term toxins to be released before they can cause serious damage. It's like changing the oil in your car BEFORE your engine fails. (Note: I would add 2-4 oz of wheat grass)Remember, when you give your body a break from the difficult task of digesting food - especially meat, dairy & poorly combined foods, you allow it to focus on healing and repair. Since lots of toxins are dumped into the blood stream during a fast it's a good idea to follow it with an enema or a colonic.( Arbonne's colon cleanse is great for that) Keeping the pipeline clear allows for better evacuation of that which does not serve you. If you are clogged up the toxins will back up. Many people do longer fasts. Common durations include one day, a week, ten days, twenty one days and even 92 days!!!! I think baby steps are important. If you are interested, start with 1-3 days. If your health is currently weak, fasting is not recommended. Be realistic. In other words, transition into the fast. Ease in and take baby steps which lead to small victories and gradual changes. Stages of cleansing..

1.Stage one: For some of you, moving to an 80/20 diet is a huge jump and this is your cleanse. So lets just kick that up a notch. Your mornings start with water lemon, cayenne, you have a raw lunch (salad) and then a huge salad for dinner with a small portion of cooked food (no animal products - this will stop all the cleansing).

2.Stage two: Same as above but instead of having raw solids at lunch you have more juice and make smoothies and/or blended soups through out the day, then for dinner you have a huge lovely salad with all your favorite raw nick nacks (note: favorite raw nick nacks for the above stages too). Stage two fsters remove all wheat products - even sprouted bread and manna. Remove ALL grain - even the best ones (millet, Buckwheat, Amaranth). Remove ALL noodles too (grain!). Remove all cooked products.

3.Stage Three: Water with lemon, herbal teas (other stages can use too), green juices, smoothies, blended soups. As much as ya like.

The more accustom you get to fasting the less hungry you will be and the less you will need. At first, don't stress yourself out, when hungry sip!

So, Let's fast on 4/15 (way to celebrate tax day - our wallets fast and so do our bodies), you choose what level is right for you and join in if you are able. Note: For all stages it is important to omit ANY kind of sugar. To mop up the terrain and deal with yeast beasties- fruit, agave, honey etc are not recommended. STEVIA is your friend. GREEN GODDESS for 1-3 days, YOU can do it! I am trying to start a monthly group on the forum. The cleanses will last from 1-3 days and we all help each other to get through it. Use the blog and the group as your support system. Share recipes, symptoms, inspiration, tips and testimonials. Questions, comments, thoughts, love?"

21.Touch yourself!

2008-04-09T11:57:00.003-05:00

When you're young, breast cancer is probably the furthest thing from your mind. However, it shouldn’t be. Although breast cancer in young women is significantly less common, it does happen.( I am the perfect example!!) Don’t believe it won’t happen to you. Finding time to incorporate breast self exam into your monthly schedule is easy when you realize just how important it is. Except for certain types of skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer diagnosed in women of all ages.
Younger women diagnosed with breast cancer often experience a more aggressive cancer and a lower chance of survival. This fact alone is enough to make early detection and breast self exam crucial for younger women. Generally, screening mammograms are recommended at age 40. Sadly, this occasionally results in younger women not being diagnosed with breast cancer until the cancer is in a later stage, and can lower their chance of survival. Because breast tissue isn't as thick when you're younger it can make diagnosis of breast cancer difficult. For this reason young women should begin monthly breast SELF EXAM at age 20, so that you can become familiar with how your breasts look and how they feel, thereby making it easier for you to notice any changes in your breasts. Remember, anytime you see or feel any kind of change in your breast, you should see your doctor.( If not anything, atleast you can some touching going on;)

20. Positive oulook

2008-04-03T20:10:00.004-05:00

Cancer is like taking a pill. But not the kind that makes you feel good. More like the "bad luck" pill. You take it, and your life changes forever. The bad part is, you've never volunteered to take the pill from the first place. It was given to you, who knows by whom! But does it matter? Not really. What matters is " Holly shit, you have cancer!" When I first was diagnosed, people would ask me all the time:

" How did you feel when you got the news?"

and I would always say:

"It is like you just won the lotto, and IRS knocks on your door to collect the unpaid taxes".

Then it comes the chemo. I remember repeatedly telling myself "If I can beat chemo, I can beat this fucking cancer,too"!! Chemo beats the crap out of you. It is more like someone punches you right in your stomach over and over again, for months! You are left breathless, and scared to death. I remember not being able to move. I couldn't move my fingers, my toes. I couldn't talk. I had no energy. Every time I got one chemo, I would think" One more down"! But it got to a point that I just couldn't do it anymore. I was basically done. I was fucking done. I wanted to give up. My body couldn't take it. I stopped seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. I decided to bail out.

" Dad, I just can't do this. I am done. I don't want to do this anymore. I just can't"

" Two more treatments. that is it. Just two more".

" Dad, I can't. I don't want to live like this. I don't want to be remembered this way. You have to understand"

" You have to. You are not just you. You have a family, a fiance', a daughter, and you have friends. You have to live for them. You have to. You can't give up now. You have been through the most of it"

And that moved me. He was right. I had family, and friends who loved me. My daughter counted on me. I had to go on.

I never wanted to have cancer. But after everything was done and over with, I realized that cancer moves you. It changes you. it shifts your direction. you realize what is important in life. you let go of the unimportant crap. You learn how to LIVE. This is how we have to be everyday. This is how I promised myself to live everyday. Cancer makes you see things in a whole new light. You open yourself up to so many possibilities. You learn that life is just too short, unpredictable, and fabulous. You learn to want what you need to LIVE, not what you need. So, what did I need to live? LOVE. I needed love. I needed to help others. That full-filled me. That brought me joy. That was my mission in life. I learned that money, a nice care, or a big house would not bring me the TRUE joy. Yes, I still like them. But when you are sick in the hospital getting chemo, there is no parking space for a car by your bed. All the money in the world can't bring you health, or make you well, and when you are so sick at 2 am, you will call your doctor, not your car dealer.

I thought I knew all of these before. But, I learned it TRUELY after cancer. I felt it. I sensed it.

and that is why, again, that I put this website together. I wanted to help. I wanted to educate others about cancer. How to prevent it, and how to fight it.

Keep up your positive attitude. You can do this. It is a rough road, but there is an end to it. You are a cancer/survivor babe. All you need to kick cancer's ass, is a nice pair of stilettos!

19. Answers to your comments- part 2

2008-03-31T14:05:00.003-05:00

Hello Loves-

Last post just was too long. But I still have to answer to more question of yours. So, here it goes:

9. What to drink? A Chinese study says that drinking green tea cut the risk of esophageal cancer by as much as 60%. The phytochemicals (chemicals from plants) in green tea most responsible for its anti-cancer effect are polypherols, and in addition to preventing cancer of the esophagus, are also thought to prevent cancer of the stomach, liver, skin, and lung. Green tea also helps to lower blood pressure and blood cholesterol, and stabilize blood sugar. Black tea too seems to have the same effect, however, analysis shows that there are 4 times the active compounds in green tea than black tea. You also have to drink lots of water. ( This is what I have a challenge with!)The color of your urine should range from clear to a light yellow. A dark yellow shows signs of dehydration, even though your throat and mouth feel just fine. For every caffeinated drink, you need to drink one more cup of water.

10. How much nuts and seeds? Five percent of your diet should be seeds and nuts. They must be consumed raw, though some say the best way to eat them is sprouted (alfalfa, radish, sunflower). Because seeds and nuts can put a strain on your digestive system, when your immune system is DOWN( so, if you are going through chemo), you will probably want to pulverize them in a grinder and sprinkle them over soups and salads. If you do not want to strain your digestive system, avoid nuts until your immune system is responding better.
Seeds and nuts can be made into milk substitutes., and is called nuts milk( NOT "THE" MILK). Nuts should (unless blended into drinks) be used in small amounts, with almonds, hazel nuts, and pecans being the best. No PEANUTS! Peanuts are not nuts, but legumes; they are considered INDIGESTIBLE, and can contain carcinogens from a very common mold often found on them.

11. Does fiber help preventing cancer? A high fiber/low fat diet is a cancer preventer and fighter. Fiber cleans your colon and combines with "stuck" fats to pass them on. It helps to lower cholesterol and tones your entire digestive track. In breast cancer, there are two types of estrogen, good and bad estrogen. A high fiber diet lowers blood levels of estradiol, the bad estrogen.

12. I can't give up grains, what should I do? You should not give them up! But avoid all refined, polished grains and flours and products made from them. Brown rice, kashi, millet, rye, buckwheat, barley, oats and oat brans, corn (on the cob or corn grits), and quinoa are recommended. Whole grain pasta can be used with limitations.

Ok, I think I covered them all. Thank you again for being so interested.

Veggies, and health:)

18. Answers to your comments- part 1

2008-03-31T13:31:00.005-05:00

Hi Boys and Girls:)

Happy Monday. I can't thank you enough for your comments, emails, and phone calls. There were very kind and encouraging. This weekend, I came across a few questions, and as I promised there are the answers:

1. Why vinegrate dressing is not good for you? Because it is acidic, and cancer can grow faster in a citric( acidic) environment. Most vinegars you purchase are destructive to your liver and digestive tract. Most vinegars contain only acetic acid, not a plus for a cancer diet. Apple cider vinegar contains, in addition to acetic acid, malic acid, an element of the digestive process. If you are going to use vinegar, use unpasteurized, unfiltered, organic apple cider vinegar.

2. Why can't we have cooked vegetables? you could. But very lightly steamed. Cooking will take away the enzymes in veggies. A little steam is ok.

3. Why shouldn't we eat meat? the FOOD sugar substance that helps cancer grow, comes from PROTEIN!! Also, It takes a very long time for the meet to digest.( Red meat is the worst, then chicken, then fish) So, our immune system will look at the meat as the foreign substance that just entered the body. As more it sits there, as more it will take attention of our immune system to itself, and prevents them from fighting against the real deal, the DISEASE. That is why a diet full of veggies, will help the body to be healthier. The veggies will be flushed out of the body very quickly.

4. No meat? Well, As i said before, you don't have to eat what I do. If you can not give up meat, then make sure the animal was grass fed. And try to use meat as the side dish not the main dish. eat smaller amounts.

5. What else to eliminate?Coffee, tea (with too much caffeine), sugar( cancer loves sugar), white flour, white rice, milk, oils (except olive oil), liquor, fried food, meat from animals that have been raised with hormones or antibiotics, citrus (one or two oranges is maximum), over-processed foods. Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines. Some people actually need coffee to counteract the alcohol created by their pancreas. Some people need animal proteins. Some need citrus. Only a thorough chemical analysis can tell you specifically what to eat and what to avoid. However, everyone with cancer should avoid all sugars and any foods containing partially hydrogenated oils (which means you must learn to read labels as the food industry is slowly slipping these fats into nearly everything: frozen foods, cream soups, cocoas, cheese products, you name it).

6. What is ok to eat? Raw vegetables and vegetable juices, fruit (fresh and dried but dehydrated—avoid sulphured, also the ones with antioxidants like berries), whole grains, lightly cooked vegetables, sweet potatoes, white potatoes, beans, small amounts of organically raised meat( farm raised, no hormones), small amounts of poached fish, nuts and/or nut milks, herb teas, and vegetable soup. Cancer experts recommend a 70% raw food diet (uncooked). Another reason for eating organic foods is of special interest to women wanting to prevent or fight breast cancer. Pesticides mimic the action of estrogen in your body in that they can lock onto receptors in the your breasts and stimulate cell division. Even small amounts of pesticides can be dangerous to women, because they tend to concentrate to high levels in fat cells, and breasts are comprised mostly of fat cells.

7. How much was the veggies we eat everyday has to be raw? A minimum of fifty percent of your diet should be veggies. (70% raw, 30% LIGHTLY cooked). Raw vegetables give you the enzymes you need, but an entirely raw diet is inadvisable since there are some tough fibrous walls that need to be broken down to get to the nutrition, and this can put a strain on your digestive system. Another way to break down raw foods and make them more assimilable is to grate them, or run them through a food processor. However, you will have to eat them as soon as they are processed, because they begin to degenerate very quickly.
Fresh vegetable juices are a must. The best cancer fighting juice is CARROT juice. It is high in beta-carotene and high in alpha-carotene, an often ignored nutrient, though thought by many experts to be ten times more powerful than beta-carotene.
Some nutritionists recommend sprouts either juiced or whole, because they contain a lot of PROTEINS! That is right. Sprouts have proteins. Include large amounts of green, leafy veggies and choices from the cabbage family daily, and don’t forget the sea vegetables such as wakame, nori, kelp, kombu, hizike, and dulce. The sea veggies are great in salads (after being rehydrated and drained) or in soups.

8. How much fruits do we need to eat? Ten percent of your diet should be fruit. Eat fruit alone as a small meal or between meals, or at least one half hour before a meal, NEVER after. They should be raw or rehydrated and preferably in season. A breakfast of fruit only is light and highly recommended by movers and shakers. Additionally, since fruit, if properly mixed, does not sit in your stomach long, it can be eaten before bedtime without causing excessive stomach acid. Keep citrus fruit to a minimum. Yes, we know how the television ads state that orange juice fights cancer, but that is prevention only. Citrus puts your body into an acidic state. Nearly all of the cancer doctors I talked to during my research said the same thing: if you are battling cancer, keep your citrus to a minimum. Get your vitamin C from supplements.

17. A great quote #1

2008-03-31T13:26:00.003-05:00

"I want to live my next life backwards. You start out dead and get that out of the way.Then you wake up in an old age home feeling better every day. Then you get kicked out for being too healthy. You enjoy your retirement and collect your pension.Then when you start work, you get a gold watch on your first day.You work 40 years until you're too young to work. You get ready for High School: drink alcohol, party, and you're generally promiscuous. Then you go to primary school, you become a kid, you play, and you have no responsibilities. Then you become a baby, and spend your last 9 months floating peacefully in luxury, in spa-like conditions: central heating, room service on tap. And then...you finish off as an orgasm!!"

16.Fear!

2008-03-27T11:25:00.006-05:00

Hi Beautiful-

When I first was diagnosed, even though I was the one with CANCER stamped on my forehead, I felt I had to protect my family and friends. I didn't know if they could deal with it!! I know for so many people hearing "You have cancer" means they're dead! Might as well stop on the way home and pick out the casket. And I also know there are loved ones who, right away, say:"You won't be going through this all by yourself. I am here for you" Really? When they lower me in the ground, are you going to jump in too? yeah, didn't think so!

Well, things didn't get any easier for me when I heard the word" Aggressive"!! Before it would meant differently. Aggressive could be a nice word, if it comes out as" You are a beautiful hot aggressive woman, with a huge rack! and I am turned on by you" I take that any day. But "You have aggressive cancer"...hmmmm...You can go to hell!!..... And how aggressive exactly is that? Can I make it home? I wasn't ready to die. Why? To begin with I couldn't imagine a world without me in it. Can you? That is what I thought. Place without me? Can't picture it. Sorry. I am still here. Even going through chemo, I might of looked like shit, but I was still there. Then it came the other reasons. I was young, had a child, was engaged, and so many friend who would be disappointed if I didn't make it. What would happen to the clothes they bought for my wedding? What about all that money they spend on the shoes? For god's sake! For the shoes' sake, I had to live.

The doctor told me about the stages of cancer. I was stage one, thanks to me, for finding it. What he didn't tell me was that cancer has actually, 6 stages. Shock, denial, anger, confusion, depression, and acceptance. Each stage is a bigger bitch that the other one. Sometimes, you might have to go through double bitching, when you have to deal with couple of them at one time. I was at a doctor's office once when he told me I could fight the nausea, and depression. I was there with my father. " Some people smoke marijuana to deal with that" . I looked at my dad. Ne reaction. Did this guy just told me in front of my dad that I could smoke pot? Where was he when I was going to college? I didn't take the advice for some crazy reason, and ended up being miserable the whole time dealing with chemo.

Then it came the priest one day. I was sitting in the lab, waiting to give blood, and the priest was there with his sister who also had cancer. He started telling me about Jesus and how he will make all this to be ok.

" Actually I am not a christian"...I said.

" Oh ,I am sorry, I hope I didn't upset you"

" Not at all!! I have cancer. Do you think I am going to play favorite at this point? I am with whoever can save my life. If that is Jesus, I am in. I certainly don't want to die and hear him say how many times people try to tell you I am the only savior, and you blew them off?!!"

Ok, Ok, I got off track! ...So what did I do after hearing I had cancer to lessen my fear? I decided to educate myself, and become an expert. If my cancer was aggressive, then I had to be aggressive, too. And that is exactly what I did. Today, I feel amazing. The cancer is gone, and I am very healthy and happy. What happened was that I found myself through cancer. I found out that all the material things don't matter. Does that mean I want to live in a shack? Will turn down a huge rock? Refuse to accept diamonds? Would like to ride a bike instead of a car?NO!! Not at all. But I know now that my life is defined by other things. More important things. Like my family, my friends, and what I can do to help others. This is why I put this website together. I know now what my mission is in life. I am here to help and educate people. And that is just a beautiful thing. And as crazy as it sounds, I owe it all to cancer.

15. Supplements

2008-03-25T21:40:00.003-05:00

I take prenatal vitamins everyday. No, I am not pregnant, nor wanting to be for now. But taking this vitamin, helped me so much with my hair and nail growth. I also take 1 garlic pill a day. Garlic is very much against cancer:) I take the tablet since I hate the smell of garlic. I also take Chlorella( 2 a day). It is nothing but pure chlorophyll( help your cell breath better). Omega-3 ( Fish oil) is another pill you can take. And the last one, is colon cleanse pills( by arbonne, and all natural). That is to detox your body, which helps preventing cancer, or fights it.

14.What to eat!

2008-03-25T20:58:00.003-05:00

Cancer metabolizes much differently than normal cells. Normal cells need oxygen. Cancer cells despise oxygen. Cancer metabolizes through a process of fermentation. If you've ever made wine, you'll know that fermentation requires sugar. The metabolism of cancer is approximately 8 times greater than the metabolism of normal cells. The body is constantly overworked trying to feed this cancer. The cancer is constantly on the verge starvation and thus constantly asking the body to feed it. When the food supply is cut off, the cancer begins to starve unless it can make the body produce sugar to feed itself. The wasting syndrome, cachexia, is the body producing sugar from proteins (you heard it right, not from carbohydrates or fats, but from proteins) in a process called glycogenesis. This sugar feeds the cancer. ( So far, NO MEET )
Now, knowing that one's cancer needs sugar, does it make sense to feed it sugar? (NO SUGAR)
Why doesn't your physician tell you this? Hard to tell. Maybe your doctor feels it is his job to cure your cancer, not yours. Cancers also likes cooked foods over raw (cooking destroys enzymes and heat sensitive vitamins). ( NO COOKED FOODS)

caffeine is another thing you should cut! Green tea is great in fighting cancer. Subsidise your coffee with green tea( White tea works too). We also have heard ho great fruits are for us. Well, wrong!! Fruits contain a lot of sugar. You can have fruits such as apple( green apple is better), blue berry,cherry, kiwi, papaya and mango (Of course, you should buy them organic)

If you want to eat red meat or chicken( and can't avoid it by any mean), make sure the animal was grass fed. Also, avoid farmed raised fish.You may want to eat salmon, sardines, and shrimps.Use Extra virgin olive oil to cook. Canola oil, peanut oil, and coconut oils are the next best things. With this diet you probably will need to take B12 (vitamin) pills on your own. What supplements to take will be on my next post. If you like bread, use wheat bread, sprouted bread( Manna brands), or sprouted wheat tortilla.

***Also, if you can't give up sweets, use stevia to sweeten your tea. (It is an herb)

Eat all different kinds of beans. Avoid Vinaigrette( In Salad dressings specially). Veggie soups are great, so are Seeds and nuts. Drink lots of water. And the last avoid alcohol. ( This one I am not too happy with!!) If you must drink alcohol( like me!!) Then drink the driest wine you can find( The least sweet), and drink as little as possible. Drinking a dry wine once in a while, is ok. But going after 5 bottles is not acceptable!

13.Green Juice!

2008-03-25T18:39:00.004-05:00

Basic AM juice:

cucumber, celery, sweet pea sprouts, green apple, Kale, Carrots. You can add ginger if you want. I like it without ginger a little better. This is full of oxygen which fights cancer as we discussed. The diet most people have is called animal diets. If you want to go a little healthier, you will move to vegetarian diet ( No meat). The best next thing is the vegan diet( No meat or dairy). And the healthiest and most productive of all is the raw diet( No meat, dairy, and No cooked meals) It takes lots of discipline to be on the last diet. This is where I am planning to be.( right now I eat 80% raw. I am avoiding dairy, meat( except the fish once a month) and try to eat greens as much as possible. You don't have to go that far and certainly not over night. Start slow, and little by little.

12.Wheatgrass

2008-03-25T18:19:00.004-05:00

Let’s talk about the ‘greens’ on the planet Earth. First of all, everyone can agree that we, as humans, are mammals. Most of the mammals on this planet are living on leafy greens. In fact, we are one of the few mammals that still eat meat and the only mammal that cook our food. To say that protein only comes from eating meat is an uneducated statement. Sprouts, sprouted beans and GREENS are the best source of proteins for our bodies. Think about it on a bigger scale. How is it possible that most every mammal (and you all agreed that WE humans are mammals) can live on eating just leafy greens? Elk, moose, deer, giraffes, gorillas, elephants, horses, etc… and don’t forget the one that WE get most of our food here in the USA from, the COW!!! Ahhhhhhh… and here is the problem now a days. You see, in the past, when you lived on red meat and dairy products, in-directly you lived on GRASS. The cow was eating the grass; we were eating the cow. It just makes sense. We were getting the EARTH in our diets. But, today, that is NOT the case. Most cows are now trough fed, mostly grains, which are making their systems too acid base, and are having to be shot full of antibiotics, steroids and of course hormones. So, the problem now is our red meat and dairy aren’t what they used to be. We are not getting the GRASS in our diet any longer.

I just want to educate people on “what’s simple is TRUE.” Get the Earth back in your diet, more oxygen back into your cells and exercise once a day. (yoga, walking, stretching, etc…) OK. Is any of this making sense yet? Let’s go to the first thing your body needs to live. Before food, before water, you need OXYGEN!!! Everyone reading this, please pause for a moment and take a DEEP BREATH… Count to three on the inhale and three on the exhale. Wasn’t that good? Let’s face it, the only people that really focus on breath these days, unless you’re into yoga, Thai-chi or meditation, are smokers! Go somewhere, by yourself, and spend 5 minutes breathing deep. It’s amazing how much calmer you will be after doing this. Now, let’s take a moment and go back to ‘wheat’ grass . The green / chlorophyll will increase the hemoglobin in the blood which then distributes oxygen to every cell in our body. Take another deep breath! Remember that oxygen is a good thing. Most of us chewed on grass as children, if it was around. Why then and not now? We lost sight of our instinct. Not since 1990, when it was said "Oxygen in the cells means less chance for cancer to survive". GREENS = Chlorophyll = increased hemoglobin = more OXYGEN in your cells. Get it now? Don’t forget, fresh wheat grass juice is the best way to FEEL a difference. Drinking 2 ounces / day on an empty stomach is optimum. I drink one shot a day of wheat grass. You can go to any health store( Not Whole foods though!!!)and buy it, or you can buy them frozen( as shots) and put them in juice or water and drink it. They also sell wheat grass tablets. I personally think the fresh ones work better and faster. I also drink at least 16 ounces a day of GREEN JUICE in addition to that. How I make it? That will be in the next post.

Love and Wheat grass!

11.Fashion

2008-03-25T11:04:00.003-05:00

Hello love-

One of the most important things you can do to make yourself feel better while going through treatments, is to look great. I know how hard it is to even get out of bed when you are sick. I have been there. But if I could do it, you can too. There are so many ways you can look cute. Colorful scarves, great hats, great clothes. Not expensive by any mean, but look like a million bucks. If you live in Saint Louis, like I do, You can send me a comment, and I will tell you where to shop for scarves and hats to get great deals. You can wear them separate, or together( like the picture above-This is our girl, Kate Moss, in a Roberto Cavalli ad). Use your imagination. When I can figure out how to put a video on this blog, I will show you how to tie your scarves, and use them for different looks. My theory was, while going through treatments, If I could look good, I could feel better, and cancer couldn't get me.

As I said before, you are beautiful. Cancer or not. So, let your inner beauty match with your outside look. Hold the flag the it says: " You can't break me. I am a strong sassy chick".

Style it up. Take pictures and post them here. While doing that, don't forget to hold your middle fingers up to cancer ;)

10.Humor:)

2008-03-24T20:42:00.004-05:00

You have got to laugh! Yes, you have cancer, and it sucks. But you have a choice. You can sit by your 24/7 Holly-shit hot line,and cry all day, or try to beat cancer's ass. It is not easy to laugh, be happy and take things lightly when you are scared, confused, sick and have an unknown future, but you can at least try. When I first was diagnosed, I named my tumor "Rita"!!( Don't ask me why!)That was my way of dealing with it. I laughed at her, made fun of her, and totally tried not to take her seriously. That might not work for you, but try to make some light out of the situation. People say silly things sometimes. Just laugh. " You lost so much weight, what is your secret?" >>>"Oh, chemotherapy. Want my oncologist's card" Laugh, and laugh. As much as you can. Try to surround yourself with everything that makes you happy. If aunt sally always ruined your family gathering, then she doesn't need to be around for a while. Do yourself a favor. This is YOUR time to be selfish. For once.

9.Is bald really beautiful?

2008-03-24T17:04:00.003-05:00

When I first was diagnosed, the first thing I could only focus on was not "wow, I might die from this"! That was the second thought! The first was"I am going to loose my hair". If you've never had cancer, and reading this, you might think I was out of my mind, but believe me, it is the thought of a lot of women with cancer. I read in so many books that" Bald is beautiful"!! You must be joking, I thought! To be honest with you, through my journey, I NEVER felt beautiful, physically, being bald. But I did learn that the beauty comes from within. When you have no lashes, brows, hair, or nail, but still feel so confident about yourself in so many ways, including your power of kicking the cancer's tosh, then you know that you have a lot going on for you. I learned that the most beautiful asset a woman has isn't her hair, breasts, skin, or her hip. Try to look behind the mirror into the deep and soulful goddess you have become. You might be banged up and feel like fifty cents rather than a million bucks, but try to focus on the beauty of life. Cancer might take away your hair, breasts, nails, eyebrows, and eyelashes, but It can't take away who you are. You should forever be proud of your body, because it symbolizes your battle and your courage. You are a survivor babe from the moment you are diagnosed. You are strong, sexy, beautiful, confident, powerful, and fantastic. Remember that everyday.

8.Sunscreen

2008-03-24T15:57:00.002-05:00

I can not express how important this is. So many people deal with skin cancer as result of the exposure to the sun! The skin products that I have mentioned in the past( Arbonne) includes sunscreen. You, of course don't have to only use arbonne, but whatever you decide to use, make sure you are smart about it. Yes, Tan is beautiful. Yes, you do look better when you are darker. But also, yes, you might get cancer and die. believe me, I am all about beauty, style, fashion, and looking good. But not to the price of having to deal with chemotherapy again. I fought too hard for as long as I did to be able to live a long life. I am sure you also feel the same.

7.Working out

2008-03-21T10:43:00.003-05:00

Hello gang of sassy-

Working out is a must! You don't have to lift 100 pounds dumbbells! You can just walk, breath, dance, and move in anyway possible. Working out helps more oxygen to get to our cells. They breath better, and get stronger, and can serve the body better. No HEALTHY cell in our body will be a cancer cell. Imagine a fight between someone who is very fit, and someone who has never worked out in her life. Who will win? It is the same thing with our cells. If they are in good shape, they can defend our body better, and if any mutation happens, they can fight it and get rid of it before it turns out to be a tumor, or better called CANCER!! So, lets start. As I said any movement for now would do it. If you are getting treatments, and really can't work out, try to wiggle your toes, fingers, legs or arms in bed, as much as you can. Do yoga if you are capable. Start slow. Walk. Breath, and enjoy the nature. Spring is here. Use it to the best.

6.Eyelashes!

2008-03-20T21:31:00.003-05:00

I lost all of my eyelashes in 2 days! Surprisingly, not through chemotherapy, but right when I was almost done with the radiation. Holly shit! Now what? I ran to the store called Sephora in panic. The sweet girl in the store introduced me to TALIKA. An eyelash conditioner and extender. You put it on the base of your lashes and over your lashes (if you have any left). this is a 28 day program, and it works like magic. When I started using it, I was done with chemotherapy, and was going through radiation. This product is not expensive, and it helps tremendously.

5.Diet!

2008-03-20T21:21:00.004-05:00

My diet is simple. It focuses on mostly raw and living organic foods that are packed with enzymes, vitamins, minerals and oxygen. You do not need to be 100% raw to practice eating this way. 70-80% will do. The remaining percentage of the diet comes from wholesome REAL foods cooked in a safe way. What is safe cooking and why? Dehydrating, lightly steaming, sauteing, and baking keep us free from carcinogenic havoc. Stay away from microwaving, deep frying, broiling, and/or inventing foods in a test tube. High heats change the molecular structure of our foods making them difficult to process and sometimes toxic. We need enzymes for every life function. A diet full of alkaline foods and enzymes sustains a life full of health.This is what we experience when we eat more enzyme rich, alkaline foods: amazing energy, happiness, better sex drive, functioning bowels, productive organs, clear skin, strong nails, leaner abs, thighs, and tushes, healthy fungus free toes and nice crisp breath meant for kissing. We feel less pain, less disease, witness lovely cholesterol and balanced blood sugar.When we eat a highly acidic diet full of the white stuff, animal products, processed soy, other fake foods, coffee, alcohol, sugary treats etc, we experience the opposite. Confusion and suffering grow and flow. Acid foods trigger inflammation, taxes our immune system, makes us fat, derails the balance of bacteria in our intestines, invites candida and hosts fatigue.

4.Hair loss and growth!

2008-03-20T21:03:00.005-05:00

I lost my hair 2 weeks after the first chemo. Well, to be exact, it started falling out on the 17th day after the first chemo, and by the 21st day it was all gone! My long beautiful black hair all disappeared in 3 days. I had 8 rounds of chemo. I was told my hair will come back after the first 4 rounds. Bull!! ....Then right after I started radiation, I lost all my eyebrows and eyelashes too. I started using Arbonne hair fertilizer on my head and eyebrows, and very quickly after that, my hair started to grow back. I posted a picture of the product I used for my hair and brows. In the next post I will talk more about what you can use for your eyelashes.

3.Tips while you go through chemo#2

2008-03-20T20:49:00.005-05:00

I always thought it was unfair to have to deal with breast cancer at age 32! But having to deal with all the side effects from chemo was another story. My skin was way too dry! I spent so much money on so many different products that none helped! Then I discovered ARBONNE:) A miracle line of skin products( specially their hand cream). Their products are natural, and really work.

2.Tips while you go through chemo#1

2008-03-18T23:12:00.003-05:00

- add one drop of rose-water to your bottled water. It is much easier to drink it that way.( You can also try to add lemon juice instead)
- ALWAYS use lotion your hands, feet and skin before you go to bed.
-Cinnamon Gum happens to lessen the nausea. Also, use Cinnamon mouth wash.
-Use salt and water combo few times a day for your mouth. It helps the mouth sores.
-Use BABY shampoo. No conditioner.
-Skin products are a must. Use Arbonne skin products. They are 100% natural and wonderful.I will keep you posted on which ones I used, later)
-If your sinuses are dry, or you came up with a sinus infection, boil a pot of water. Use a blanket over your head, and let the steam absorb on your face. Do this for 10 minutes. Take a quick shower after that. Do it 3-4 times a day if you have to.
-Floss your teeth as much as you can.
-Rest as much as you can.
-No salt or as little as possible. ( It helps with the pufiness)

1.Hello Angels!

2008-03-18T22:59:00.003-05:00

I was engaged on March 15th of 2007, and was planning my wedding . But I was diagnosed with breast cancer, stage I, grade 3( the most aggressive type), on July 17th of 2007 at age 32, and everything changed. My wedding was postponed, and instead I went through 8 rounds of chemotherapy, 34 radiations, and one lumpectomy. The treatments were done in February of 2008. I am cancer free, and feel fantastic. In the last 9 months, I have researched the web, read a million books, and talked to lots of experts. I decided to put my knowledge to work and create a website to help young women with cancer . This blog will be about diets, working out, style and fashion while going through chemotherapy, and so much more. Even though My ideas might not work for everyone, however, is worth looking into.