Healthy with Jodi

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Allergy Testing Explained

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    Allergy testing At a Glance

    I’m all about questions and explaining why. When we understand “Why” we do things, programs or guidelines become easier to follow and results tend to be easier to maintain when education is behind our actions.  Let me help you stop the guess work and customize your eating and supplement plan so you can be the best version of yourself you can be!!!

    Formal name:
    Allergen-specific IgE Antibody Test
    Why Get Tested?
    To help diagnose allergies; sometimes to monitor the effectiveness of immunotherapy (desensitization) treatment
    When to Get Tested?
    When you have symptoms such as hives, dermatitis, nasal congestion, red itchy eyes, asthma, or abdominal pain that your health care provider suspects may be caused by an allergy
    A Sample is Required
    A blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm or finger prick at home test.

    No Test Preparation Needed

    What is being tested?
    Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is a class of antibody (immune protein) associated with allergic reactions. It is normally found in very small amounts in the blood. This test measures the amount of allergen-specific IgE in the blood in order to detect an allergy to a particular substance.
    IgE is an antibody that functions as part of the body’s immune system, its defense against “intruders.” When someone with a predisposition to allergies is exposed to a potential allergen such as food, grass, or animal dander for the first time, that person becomes sensitized. The person’s body perceives the potential allergen as a foreign substance and produces a specific IgE antibody that binds to specialized mast cells in the skin, respiratory system, and gastrointestinal tract, and to basophils (a type of white blood cell) in the bloodstream. With the next exposure, these attached IgE antibodies recognize the allergen and cause the mast and basophil cells to release histamine and other chemicals, resulting in an allergic reaction that begins at the exposure site.
    Each allergen-specific IgE antibody test performed is separate and very specific: honeybee versus bumblebee, egg white versus egg yolk, giant ragweed versus western ragweed. Groupings of these tests, such as food panels or regional weed, grass, and mold panels, can be done. Alternatively, the health practitioner may pick and choose selectively from a long list of individual allergens suspected of causing a person’s allergies.

    When is it ordered?
    One or more allergen-specific IgE antibody tests are usually ordered when a person has signs or symptoms that suggest an allergy to one or more substances. Signs and symptoms MAY include:

    **Fatigue is number one symptom!**
    * Hives
    * Dermatitis
    * Eczema
    * Red itchy eyes
    * Coughing, nasal congestion, sneezing
    * Itching and tingling in the mouth
    * Asthma
    * Abdominal pain or vomiting and diarrhea
    * Bloating, excessive gas
    * Skin breakouts
    * Sluggish
    * Stomachache, discomfort within 30 mins of eating
    * Trouble concentrating, brain fog

    A test may also be ordered occasionally to help evaluate the effectiveness of immunotherapy or to determine whether a child has outgrown an allergy.

    Sources:
    American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology
    Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: What are allergies?
    American College of Allergy, Asthma,
    American Academy of Family Physicians: Food Allergies
    Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN)
    Nemours Foundation: All About Allergies
    American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology: What is Allergy Testing
    American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology: Tips to Remember: Allergy Testing
    National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

    Obesity Facts

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      Food for thought as you prepare for the super bowl today? The alarming rates of Obesity need to published and talked about.  Everyone wants to “live in the moment” But we are stealing precious moments due to our repeated poor food choices.  If you want to be around to outlive your kids, and you want to be the fun mom or fun grandparent that can keep up with the kids we need to educate ourselves and start making better choices to make that happen.

      You can do it.  We can do it, and I can help!

      Obesity facts:

      Today, about 75% of US men and 67% of US women are either overweight or obese. Between 1988 and 1994, 63% of men and 55% of US women were overweight or obese.

The NHANES says that about 35% of men and 37% of women are obese, 40% of men and 30% of women are overweight. 2/3 of US adults are at a unhealthy weight.

      US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that Americans have been gaining weight since the 1960’s. The average US woman weighs about 166 pounds compared to 140 in 1960. 166 was the average for a man in 1960.
      Our children are not expected to outlive us. Obesity is one of the biggest contributors to this shortened life expectancy, it is the root of a lot of chronic health conditions.

      Our environment contributes in some of the following ways:
      Overuse of antibiotics in food production and medicine
      Growth-enhancing drugs used in food animals
      Endocrine-disrupting chemicals and pesticides
      Social media centered around junk food and artificial sweeteners.
      Highly processed genetically modified (GM) foods are full of ingredients that contribute to metabolic dysfunction and weight gain/obesity.

      The McKinsey Global Institute says the annual global cost of obesity is now $2 trillion. (For comparison, alcoholism costs are $1.4 trillion annually, road accidents cost $700 billion, and unsafe sex costs $300 billion)  The McKinsey report estimates that nearly 1/2 of the world’s adult population will be overweight or obese by 2030.

      In the US, 8 obesity related diseases account for 75% of healthcare costs. These include type 2 diabetes, heart disease, dementia, cancer, Polycystic ovarian syndrome, hypertension, lipid problems, NAFLD (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease).

      The National Health Expenditure Accounts (NHEA) are the official estimates of total health care spending in the US. In 1960, the NHEA measures annual U.S. expenditures for health care goods and services, public health activities, government administration, the net cost of health insurance, and investment related to health care.
      U.S. health care spending in 2014 reached $3.0 trillion or $9,523 per person.
      The nation’s Gross Domestic Product accounted for 17.5% of health care costs.

      cms.gov/research-statistics-data-and-systems/statistics-trends-and-reports/nationalhealthexpenddata/nationalhealthaccountshistorical.html
      http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=189100
      http://www.surgeongeneral.gov/library/calls/
      http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2015/07/08/increasing-us-adult-weight.aspx
      http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=189100
      http://atlanta.cbslocal.com/2015/06/15/cdc-average-american-woman-now-weighs-as-much-as-1960s-us-man/
      http://archinte.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=2323411

      Women’s Multi Vitamin 40+

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        Ortho Multi Women 40+
        Protocol for life Balance
        120 Capsules $30.00

        -Iron-Free Formula for Post-Menopausal Women*
-With Cranberry and Superfruits – Acai, Mangosteen and Pomegranated
-A Dietary Supplement
-Vegetarian/Vegan
        Iron-Free Ortho Multi™ Women’s 40+ provides balanced nutrition for the support of total body wellness for menopausal and post-menopausal women.* In addition to a full range of daily vitamins and minerals, Ortho Multi™ Women’s 40+ supplies free radical fighting ingredients such as CoQ10, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Lutein and Lycopene to help fight the ravages of aging.* Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Boron, Vitamins D and K have also been included as key bone building nutrients. This comprehensive and completely vegetarian formula features chelated minerals, as well as coenzyme forms of B6 and B12 for enhanced bioavailability.

        Servings Per Container: 30
        As a dietary supplement, take 4 capsules daily in divided doses with meals or as directed by your healthcare practitioner.

        Serving Size: 4 Veg Caps
        Amount Per Serving
Vitamin A … 10, 000IU 
(100% as Beta-Carotene)
Vitamin C … 300mg
(from Calcium Ascorbate and Ascorbyl Palmitate)
Vitamin D … 1, 000IU 
(as Ergocalciferol)
Vitamin E … 200IU 
(as d-alpha Tocopheryl Succinate)
Vitamin K … 80mcg 
(as Menaquinone K2 and Phytonadione K1)
Thiamine … 25mg 
(from Thiamine HCI)(Vit. B-1)
Riboflavin … 25mg 
(Vitamin B-2)
Niacin … 30mg 
(Vitamin B-3)(as Niacinamide and from Inositol Hexanicotinate)
Vitamin B-6 … 25mg 
(from Pyridoxine HCI and Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (P-5-P))
Folate … 800mcg 
(as Folic Acid)
Vitamin B-12 … 200mcg 
(as Methylcobalamin)
Biotin … 300mcg
Pantothenic Acid … 50mg 
(from D-Calcium Pantothenate)
Calcium … 250mg 
(from Calcium Carbonate (Aquamin® TG Red Algae Sea Minerals) and Calcium Ascorbate)
Iodine … 150mcg 
(from Potassium Iodide)
Magnesium … 100mg 
(from Magnesium Citrate and Aquamin® TG Red Algae Sea Minerals)
Zinc … 15mg
(from from Zinc Bisglycinate)(TRAACS®)
Selenium … 200mcg
(from L-Selenomethionine)
Copper … 1mg
(from Copper Bisglycinate)(TRAACS®)
Manganese … 2mg 
(from Manganese Bisglycinate)(TRAACS®)
Chromium … 120mcg 
(from Chromium Picolinate)
Molybdenum … 75mcg 
(from Sodium Molybdate)
Potassium … 25mg 
(from Potassium Chloride)
Cranberry … 100mg
(Vaccinium macrocarpon)(Fruit)(Standardized to min. 6% Quinic Acid)
Pomegranate Extract … 50mg
(Fruit)[min. 40% Punicalagins (Punicosides A and B)]
Organic Acai … 50mg
(Euterpe oleracea)(Fruit Skin and Pulp)
Mangosteen Extract … 50mg
(Fruit Peel)(Garcinia mangostana)(min. 10% Mangostin)
CoQ10 … 30mg 
(Coenzyme Q10)
Alpha Lipoic Acid … 30mg
Choline … 25mg 
(from Choline Bitartrate)
Inositol … 25mg
Aloe Vera … 25mg 
(Leaf)(200:1 Concentrate)
Lycopene … 500mcg 
(from Natural Tomato Extract)
Lutein … 500mcg 
(from Marigold Flowers)
        Other Ingredients: Cellulose (capsule), Cellulose Powder, Stearic Acid (vegetable source) and Silica.
        CAUTIONS/INTERACTIONS: Iodine may occasionally cause an allergic reaction in some individuals. This product contains Vitamin K, which is contraindicated in individuals taking warfarin. Some ingredients in this formula may affect the absorption or metabolism of medications. If you are taking any pharmaceutical medications, consult your healthcare practitioner before taking this product. If you are pregnant or lactating, consult your healthcare practitioner before taking this product.

        Cacao Mint Mojito Mousse

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          Cacao Mint Avocado Mousse
          Vegan, GF, Paleo
          Happily Serves 4-8

          All Organic Ingredients
          3 Avocados
          1/2 cup coconut Nectar
          1 Tsp vanilla extract
          1/2 Cup Coconut oil, melted
          2/3 cup fresh mint, stems off
          1/4 tsp Himalayan Sea Salt
          Lime juice to equal 3/4 cup plus zest
          Optional: 1/2 cup Raw Cacao and stevia to sweetness desired

          Place pitted avocado in food processor, blend well.
          Add coconut oil, lime juice, vanilla, sea salt, coconut nectar, and add Mint leaves. Blend well.
          Put in the freezer for 30 mints for a frosty treat.

          Can change the taste of this by omitting the mint or the cacao to change things up a bit depending on cravings.

          Fennel Seasoned Beets

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            Fennel Seasoned Beets
            GF, Vegan, Refined Sugar free
            Happily serves 2


            All Organic Ingredients

            1 Golden or Red fresh beet
            1/2-1 TBSP ground fennel seed
            Sea salt to taste
            1 TBSP melted coconut oil
            1-2 tsp Chinese 5 Spice season.
            1/2 TBSP Balsamic Vinegar (optional)
            For Sweetness: You can add 1/8-1/4 tsp maple extract and cinnamon with stevia.

            Wash and Peel beets. Either spirialize, slice or cube your beets so they cook faster. Roast in Convection oven for 15 mins. Remove and add seasonings. Toss, eat either warm or cold depending on preference.

            One cup is recommended due to fiber count.

            Option:
            Use my coconut fennel sauce over Beets to change it up. Recipe list separate.

            ProOmega-CoQ10

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              ProOmega-CoQ10 1000mg
              Nordic Naturals
              60 softgels $38.95
              120 softgels $69.95


              -Double-strength EPA+DHA for more omega-3s in fewer soft gels plus 100mg 
ubiquinone-form CoQ10
-Synergistic heart support
-Promotes brain and neurological health
              ProOmega CoQ10 provides the same powerful EPA+DHA formula as our ProOmega, with 
the added heart health benefits of CoQ10. This formula helps supply the heart 
with the ATP it needs, and protects heart tissue from oxidative stress and 
damage.

              Servings Per Container: 30
              Two soft gels daily, with food, or as directed by your health care professional or pharmacist.
              Serving Size: 2 soft gels
              Amount Per Serving: 
Calories …20
Calories from Fat …18
Total Fat …2.0g
Saturated Fat …0.1g
Trans Fat …0g
Coenzyme Q10 …100mg
              Total Omega-3s …1280mg
EPA …650mg
(Eicosapentaenoic Acid)
DHA …450mg
(Docosahexaenoic Acid) 
Other Omega-3s …180mg
              Ingredients: purified deep sea fish oil (from anchovies and sardines), soft gel 
capsule (gelatin, glycerin, purified water, caramel color, natural lemon flavor), coenzyme Q10, beeswax, d-alpha tocopherol, rosemary extract (a natural 
preservative)
              No gluten, milk derivatives, or artificial colors or flavors. Non-GMO.

              Struggling with Depression??

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                Do you struggle with Depression or know someone who does? Tired of being pushed the drug route? Want to heal your body naturally?  Try a few of these herbs.  You  can take them in combinations in tea form or supplement form.  If you need help deciphering what you think you need first, let me help you sort it out before you spend extra money trying to experiement on your own.

                Herbs for depression
                Rhodiola rosea
                Rhodiola rosea (Crassulaceae) is a perennial plant that grows in cold, alpine regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Its roots contain a sap that has long been used to improve physical and mental endurance, relieve symptoms of anxiety and stress, and even lift mood and alleviate depression symptoms. This is why it is considered to be an adaptogen, a natural substance that helps normalize the body’s response to stress, and maintain optimal homeostasis by balancing the immune system and endocrine hormones (http://cms.herbalgram.org/herbclip/342/review45139.html).

                Numerous scientific studies, including research conducted and compiled by Dr. Zakir Ramazanov, a former Soviet soldier-turned-doctor, has revealed that rhodiola rosea can be safely used to reduce recovery time after workouts, improve attention span and memory, improve physical fitness and performance, enhance psychomotor function, and alleviate depression and anxiety (http://rhodiolarosea.org/rhodiola-benefits/).
                100mg of Rhodila a day (Dr.Weil.com)

                Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/035463_depression_herbs_remedies.html#ixzz3zjQgnxzR

                St. John’s Wort
                St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum), a plant native to temperate and subtropical regions of the world, has long been used in many cultures to treat depression. Numerous research studies, including a 2008 study published as part of the Cochrane Systematic Review, have found that St. John’s Wort is at least as effective as standard antidepressant drugs at treating mild to moderate depressive disorders, but with few potentially harmful side effects (http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/10/081007192435.htm).

                When taken as a whole extract, St. John’s Wort has also been shown to help naturally alleviate sleep disorders, promote relaxation, and boost energy levels in such a way that avoids the “spikes” and “plunges” typically associated with consumption of caffeine and other stimulants. St. John’s Wort is considered to be a safe, inexpensive herbal remedy that can help promote improved overall mental health.

                Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/035463_depression_herbs_remedies.html#ixzz3zjSFGRPF

                Camu Camu
                Camu Camu (Myrciaria dubia) is a tropical rainforest plant whose berries have the highest known levels of natural vitamin C in the world. The plant’s fruit, which is naturally tangy and sweet, contains a host of nutrients, including vitamin C, that fight the negative effects of the herpes virus, promote immune health, alleviate inflammation, and fight bacteria and viruses. Camu Camu also has adaptogenic properties that normalize bodily processes during stress, and help relieve symptoms of depression.

                In his Clinician’s Handbook of Natural Healing, Dr. Gary Null, Ph.D., critically-acclaimed nutritionist and researcher, lists Camu Camu as the second most potent known plant for containing natural antidepressant compounds — and best of all, eating camu camu has absolutely no know negative side effects
                Therapeutic Ranges for Vit C falls between 3000-5000mg day

                Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/035463_depression_herbs_remedies.html#ixzz3zjSTNQ4d

                Ashwagandha
                Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), an Indian plant that has long been used in Ayurvedic medicine, contains powerful adaptogenic compounds that are known to relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression. The plant is also known to help fight degenerative brain conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, as well as inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells.

                Several studies, including one published in the journal Phytomedicine back in 2000, have found that ashwagandha works as well as, or better than, antidepressant drugs at relieving anxiety and treating depression symptoms. And ashwagandha naturally prevents stress-induced free radical damage without causing harmful side effects (http://www.lef.org/magazine/mag2006/jun2006_report_ashwa_01.htm).
                Ashwaganda can be up to 6000mg a day, suggesting to be taken in 3 doses divided.

                Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/035463_depression_herbs_remedies.html#ixzz3zjSWnAz2

                Maca
                Maca (Lepidium meyenii), also known as “Peruvian ginseng,” is a root vegetable that is packed with amino acids, phytonutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Like the other herbs mentioned, it has long been used in traditional medicine to increase energy and stamina, enhance libido, and boost the immune, adrenal, and endocrine systems.

                In a 2008 study published in the journal Menopause, researchers found that maca helps reduce anxiety and depression symptoms in women with menopause (http://drtorihudson.com). And in a 2006 study published in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, researchers found that maca clearly exhibits general antidepressant activity in all people when consumed.
                Maca can be 500-2000mg a day. (macaextract.net)
                Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/035463_depression_herbs_remedies.html#ixzz3zjSfMG5m

                Aminolase: Protein Nutrition

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                  PROTEIN NUTRITION
                  Aminolase. Arthur Andrew Medical
                  30 capsules $24.99
                  90 capsules $69.99

                  Worth every penny for anyone “training” and not just “working out!”

                  Ideal for body builders, runners, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone with an active lifestyle, Aminolase represents a breakthrough in protein nutrition for those using protein supplements or meal replacements to help build or maintain healthy muscle mass and accelerate muscle recovery. Aminolase should be taken with protein rich foods and all protein supplements including the following: whey, milk, casein, soy, pea, rice and hemp. Protein supplements are one of the richest sources of all nine essential amino acids that the body is unable to produce on its own; however all protein must first be processed into a usable form, which includes essential amino acids and beneficial peptides (i.e., Di and Tri-peptides). To be effective, protein must be broken down into a smaller particle size within approximately 90 minutes of consumption. This transit time represents the time from which protein passes from the stomach through the small intestine where digestion/absorption primarily occurs; from there it will be assembled into muscle building protein (a bio-usable form). Undigested protein will simply be excreted from the body, resulting in increased kidney stress and wasted amino acids, essentially pouring your expensive protein supplement down the toilet.*

                  Servings Per Container: 30
                  Consume 1 capsule of Aminolase™ per 25 grams of protein. Aminolase capsules may also be opened and added directly to your favorite protein supplement, or taken with any protein rich meal.

                  Serving Size: 1 capsule
                  Amount Per Serving:
Aminolase TPA™ … 250mg
Acid Stable Protease Blend
                  Other Ingredients: Cellulose (vegetarian capsules)
                  Aminolase is free of dairy, gluten, and soy allergens. Contains no artificial colors or preservatives.

                  Vitamin D: Micro D-3 with Vit K & Trace Minerals

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                    Micro D-3 w/ Vitamin K and Trace Minerals
                    Nutrasal
                    2 oz. $16.95

                    Micro D-3 w/ KTM is an optimized form of Vitamin D3 in a base of Vitamin K2 and Trace Minerals. And, unlike other Vitamin D, Micro D-3 w/ KTM is superior in particle size, delivery technology, absorption and bioavailability. Vitamin D-3 doses have been steadily increasing from 400 IU to 2000 IU per day. And, in many cases, Doctors and Healthcare Professionals are recommending doses in excess of 5000 IU per day. Because Micro D-3 w/ KTM leverages the power of our new breakthrough delivery system (M.E.D.S Technology), you can get up to 10 times more vitamin D into the blood and body when compared to ordinary soft gelatin capsules and other liquid formulations.

                    Servings Per Container: 240
                    As a dietary supplement, take 1250IU )0.25ml) per day or as directed by your physician.

                    Serving Size: 0.25ml = 1250IU
                    Amount Per Serving
Vitamin D-3 … 1250IU
                    Other Ingredients: DI Water, Proprietary Blend of (Magnesium Lactate, Zinc Lactate, Copper, Chromium) MCT Oil, Phosphatidylcholine, Vitamin K2
                    Contains NO: wheat, gluten, corn, soy protein, yeast, dairy products, artificial colors, sweeteners, or preservatives.

                    Winter Squash Pancakes

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                      Winter Squash Pancakes

                      Vegan, GF, Refined Sugar free
                      Happily serves 4

                      ALL ORGANIC INGREDIENTS
                      PANCAKES
                      1 cup Cooked and smashed winter squash
                      1/3 cup cashew cream or vegan cream cheese
                      2 large eggs (or flax egg)
                      1/2 cup coconut yogurt
                      3/4 teaspoon sea salt
                      A dash black pepper
                      1 teaspoon baking powder
                      1 cup all-purpose GF flour
                      coconut oil for frying pan

                      TO FINISH:
                      Crispy Sage Brown Butter:
                      2 to 3 tablespoons butter
                      A pinch or two of salt
                      A few fresh sage leaves

                      In a large bowl, whisk squash, yogurt, eggs, cheese, salt, pepper and baking powder until smooth.
                      Add flour and stir until just combined. Batter will be thick.

                      Heat skillet medium-low to medium.  Coat the bottom with coconut oil, and spoon in pancake batter,  flatten the pancake slightly.
                      Cook until golden brown underneath, flip and cook until golden brown.
                      Lower your heat, if it’s cooking too fast. If you’re worried pancakes have not cooked in the center, you can finish them for 10 minutes in a 250 degrees oven.

                      To finish, wipe out frying pan and add butter (or you can use coconut oil), a Dash of salt and sage leaves, heating over medium heat. The sage leaves will crisp and the butter will brown in a minute or two so keep a close watch on it. Pour leaves and butter over pancakes

                      To roast squash: For butternut or kabocha, roast it face-down on an a baking sheet sprinkled with coarse salt at 375 for 40 to 50 minutes, until tender.