I’ve almost finished 3 weeks of the cleanse and I feel great! Do you? My cravings for sugar have vanished, my elimination organs are working better than ever, and my sleep has improved. One more week and the cleanse will be “over.”
For the final week of the cleanse (starting on Thursday for me) we will go back to the Week 1 plan in general, but continue to stay with the increased amounts of fiber and acai. So, you will be having the cran-water in the morning and evening and before and after every meal. Flax or psyllium in the morning and evening (1 1/2 -2 tbsp) and afternoon acai powder (1 1/2 – 2 scoops).
We are still eliminating sugar, dairy, gluten and caffeine.
It’s only one more week and I know you can do it! Will post some comments about “what to expect” later this week.
Archive for the ‘Supplements’ Category
3 Down, 1 to go!
Monday, May 3rd, 2010Supplements – How Natural Are They?
Wednesday, April 28th, 2010
In my profession, I have opportunities to interact with a crowd that usually goes unnoticed: the raw ingredients/material manufacturers & suppliers of our supplement and beauty industry. Until you actually have the chance to talk to someone in that field, it’s a job that’s given little thought, one that’s behind the scenes. We have a tendency to trust what we don’t see – a strange human phenomenon – like sitting in a chair without a clue of its stability or the manufacturer’s quality control. It’s just there and those people that make chairs must know what they’re doing, so we believe…
As a former natural foods/beauty store manager & buyer, always a consumer and in recent years a public advocate for health and wellness, it is always a fascinating experience to meet with the companies, individuals and resources that are behind the scenes in supplementation. In hope of attaining even more healthy living tips, I recently attended a national expo where many of the raw ingredient distributors were on display.
What I noticed while walking the isles & taking in the vast amount of herbs, vitamins, gel caps and powders is an industry like most others in the world – a garden of good & evil. The suppliers of raw materials that make-up your supplements and OTC’s provide amazing products that are pure and potent, matched with a technology that utilizes their fullest potential. AND, there are companies that are full of inconsistencies and corporate structures trying to plump up the pockets of their execs at the expense of product integrity, and your health.
So, how can we be sure what we are taking is actually healthy and not just a chemically derived substance produced to mask as a “natural ingredient” that may be harmful to our health? It’s difficult, but with research, can be done.
We live in a nation that distributes supplements freely – a positive and a negative – so all ingredients do not have to be listed, noted or approved by a governing agent. Anyone can formulate a product, most anything goes (with the exception of a few banned substances) and there’s not a national watchdog with any great authority on behalf of the consumer, unless of course you’re a highly visible athlete and have irregular testings. Clearly, it’s up to you to be the gate-keeper of what goes into your body.
With research, most substances on supplement labels have a name that will register somewhere on the internet with a definition, link-to or English name for the Latin or otherwise listed. However, some companies use a “proprietary blend” of which the ingredients don’t have to be revealed. You’ll often see this in herbal formulas, sports supplements and energy or weight-loss products. In my opinion, I would steer clear of such concoctions. If a company can’t disclose exactly what is in their product, why should you trust them? Any supplement I take I know not only the specific ingredients, but usually the background of the company itself.
It can be hard to catch some of the long, multi-hyphenated compounds or amino acids complexes, but you should be able to find at least the main part of the ingredient and what it does, its history, reactions, uses, etc, on the web or in reference. If not, it may likely be a chemically modified substance that may or may not be safe to put into your body.
For a synergistic, effective product that works with the body, I recommend food-based supplements. The technology we have allows for our food sources to be dried, extracted, powdered and combined in a way that provides a safe and reliable product – one that is in greater harmony with the natural chemistry of our bodies. There are some amazing supplement formulas that contain full disclosure, real food ingredients and you will get the right amount of nutrients your body needs with proper dose.
I love the natural food and supplement industry, but no industry is perfect. Just because a bottle looks inviting and prints words like “All Natural” or “Cold Relief with Echinacea” does not mean that someone that resembles your grandmother is in a large kitchen concocting beautiful, natural ingredients and fancily labeling them with love. You have to use discernment, do your research and see if what you are ingesting is actually beneficial to your health or just a chemical agent that will line the pockets of some obscure CEO of a “dietary supplement company.”
Cleanse Instructions Week 2 & 3
Wednesday, April 21st, 2010Made it through the first week of the cleanse – are you still with me? I know some have started late, or are postponing, but here are the modifications for the next two weeks of the spring cleanse – when you are ready.
Week 2 & 3, we are still avoiding gluten, dairy, refined sugar and limiting or eliminating caffeine. The only modifications to the program will be with the drink and supplementation.
Every morning, still enjoy the water, then lemon water mix, then the cran-water with fiber. The only other time you will be making the cran-water is in the evening, again with the fiber. All other times you were drinking the cran-water in week 1, replace with room temperature water (filtered, please!).
As for the supplementation, increase the fiber (flax meal or psyllium) from 1 Tbsp to 1/5 Tbsp (2 for advanced cleansers), and increase the acai powder in the afternoon from 1 scoop to 1.5 scoops (2 for pros). Remember to include a morning detox tea, preferably a combo tea that includes dandelion, red clover, milk thistle, nettles, or similar herbs.
After the first 3 days, I think I’m past the sugar cravings. Generally, I’m feeling good and my “elimination” organs are working smoothly and daily!! Hope the same is true for you – let me know!! And, yes – more recipes are coming!
FDA – The Food & Drug Abomination
Wednesday, March 10th, 2010
Genetically Modified Food
The FDA is not protecting us. Ajinomoto’s newly branded “Aminosweet” (read: aspartame) just sparked my fire once again with regards to how poor of a job this nation is doing with nutrition. And the FDA is allowing it. From artificial chemicals to genetically modified foods, sweetners that destroy our health (Mercola’s site for a good read), we are becoming chemically filled zombies, with a rate of disease and obesity that is our of control. The substances that the FDA allows in our “food” is atrocious. To make it worse, we’re not only feeding our children this crap, we encourage it because these unidentifiable scientific substances comes in pretty, shiny boxes with lots of colors. (ModernSage) Obviously, our trusted and well-paid staff of THE FDA is not doing a damn thing about it, so it’s left into the hands of us. It requires two things: 1 – we use our God-given smarts and 2 – we make choices accordingly.
Yes, we are a people easily influenced, BUT, we are influencial people. If enough stop buying that garbage they call food, they will pay attention. Someday. We’ve already seen a drastic movement to organic lifestyle in the mainstream, and the FDA trying to get there hands in the “alternative supplement” world. Why? There’s a lot of money in that industry.
Let’s not take it any longer. Do your own research. Just because the FDA “approves” something doesn’t mean it’s safe. More than likely, there’s a lot of money behind that decision and it’s not money that’s going toward the health of you or your family.
This subject is a passion of mine, and should be yours. This is a large topic, and there will be more to come. In the meantime, if you’re at work and want to do a bit of research, grab a box of whatchamacallit and see for yourself – just type in one of the 50 ingredients and see what you think.
Help me stop the madness. Eat real food
What is Wheatgrass?
Wednesday, December 2nd, 2009
Wheatgrass is a dark green leafy vegetable, more nutritious per gram than spinach, and contains high levels of chlorophyll and betacarotene. Sometimes referred to as “Mother Nature’s Multiple,” wheatgrass provides a wide array of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and more. It’s usually grown in trays in a warm greenhouse or indoors under fluorescent lighting. After growing for just 7-10 days, the plant is then harvested and juiced for consumption.
What will drinking wheatgrass juice do for me?
Let’s rephrase the question: what would eating enough vegetables every day do for you? Thousands of private and government studies suggest that increased consumption of vegetables may reduce incidence of cancer and heart disease, and lead to fewer health problems across the board. Yet, over 90% of us fail to get the recommended 3-5 servings every day.
I’m allergic to wheat. Can I eat wheatgrass?
Almost certainly, yes. Wheat allergies are usually a reaction to the gluten found in the wheat berry. Wheat grass is a vegetable, cut before the wheat plant forms the grain (berry), and contains no gluten. Still, it’s always recommended that a doctor be consulted before adding anything new to the diet of a person with allergies.
Keep Your Eye on the Ball
Wednesday, December 2nd, 2009I’ll never forget these words. My dad used to yell them at me during my whole softball career. I was a decent hitter, but you couldn’t always count on it. I WANTED to get a hit, but being a teen, I was too busy thinking about what my hair looked like coming out of that helmet. Was my butt sticking out too far? Who was watching? With a wandering mind, the ball often came and went without contact or went flying too high with an easy drop into the opponent’s glove. “Keep your eye on the ball, Leah” I heard my dad say. I now find myself saying these same words as I focus on what I WANT out of life in general.
What do you want? Better yet, what is distracting you from GETTING what you want? Is your eye on the ball? It’s so easy these days to have A.D.D. All of the activities and gadgets, it’s a wonder we get anything of value accomplished! When you want something – be it weight loss, a dream, a better relationship or a hit out of the ballpark, you gotta keep your eye on the ball. No exceptions. If you think you may suffer from genuine A.D.D. or just have an awful time focusing your attention, there are great remedies that can help you tremendously. DHA and other Omega 3 fatty acids are excellent brain foods that have been proven to help concentration, clarity and calmness. Gingko will get that blood flowing, and if you suffer from an anxious mind. Personally, I use L-Theanine for calm, focused thinking. Meditating for even 5 min/day can calm the mind and help you to focus & Biofeedback is another great technique you might want to check out to keep your mind’s eye on target. Balance your brain and your body with nature’s help. Whatever you are going for, do it with a focused mind. Keep your eye on the ball and give it your best swing!
My Favorite Supplement Combo!
Wednesday, December 2nd, 2009
Olive Leaf
Introducing: Olive Leaf and Oil of Oregano. The combo you need to feel amazing all year round! (No, this is no commercial. I;m just excited to share the news!) Here’s the scoop…
Olive Leaf has been used medicinally for centuries, and considered by many to be a most potent and sacred herb. Even Hippocrates was a fan and you will most likely become one too. The olive leaf contains powerful antioxidants that are more than just an amazing health tonic, but also anti-microbial and can be used to ward off the flu, common cold or any type of bacterial infection. It’s shown amazing results in the treatment of Herpes virus, retrovirus, shingles, Epstein-Barr, Hepatitis B, candida, throat infections, ear, dental or urinary tract infections, allergies, HIV/AIDS, chronic fatigue and even supports the cardiovascular system and increases energy levels. I first used Olive Leaf for a strange virus that left little bumps on my hands. Within a day (no kidding!) and along with Oil of Oregano, not only were the bumps gone, but I was running NYC with loads of energy that I thought was only part of my youth! Barlean’s delivers an Olive Leaf product that will meet the best of any standards and Nature’s Way has a good product as well. If you suffer from any of these conditions, look into this powerful herb. I use it anytime I start feeling a little “off” and it does the trick!
I use Olive Leaf with Oil of Oregano for that extra one-two punch. Oil of Oregano is a pungent, bitter herb extracted from the Oregano family, but you can’t receive the medicinal benefits from what you’d eat on your pizza! I recommend taking the capsules instead of the oil, as the taste is.. WOW! But, whatever way you get it down, you’ll benefit none-the-less. It is another power-house antioxidant that is used for clearing the common cough, easing migraines, healing skin infections, anti-fungal, strengthens the immune system, eases sore throat, improves breathing & respiratory difficulties and even controls dandruff. North American Herb and Spice has a capsule that is potent and will do the job.
Use these herbs to keep your physical self in tip-top shape. Let me hear your feedback!
Threshold
Sunday, November 29th, 2009
Chlorella
Every health conscious human alive in this era has embraced the word green. It’s become a word about lifestyle, be it environmental, physical or mental. Green represents sustainability. Freshness. Eco-friendliness and frankly, life itself. This word is now embedded into American pop culture: the “Go Green” movement of the 21st Century. I propose we employ an even more thorough green movement, one that will feed the hungry, heal the sick and preserve our ecological system: The “Green Micro-Algae” movement, powered by the dynamos Spirulina and Chlorella.
With a full spectrum of macro and micro-nutrients, trace minerals, fatty acids, nucleic acids, chlorophyll, phytochemicals as well as being chock full of protein, these food substances have fueled civilizations for centuries, offering not only a food alternative to the natives, but optimal nutrition for modern-day health enthusiasts alike. These superfoods are thought to contain every nutrient required by the human body. You could literally live off these micro-algae!
A scientist I am not, but as a natural lifestyle expert and passionista for health and healing, I can attest that Spirulina and Chlorella are harmoniously effective for any body’s health. And, like all food or beverage, the higher the quality input, the greater the results output. That’s why I love Source Natural’s Organic Spirulina and Emerald Garden Organic Chlorella. These superfoods from Source Natural are super-high quality, grown under the rigorous standards of the USDA Certified Organic regulation with no GMO’s, presticides, contaminants, filler or binders, harvested in fresh water or open air in natural sunlight… just the way nature intended.
People often ask, “Do you need to take both Spirulina and Chlorella?” I liken these two powerhouse foods to exercise and nutrition. You can take spirulina or chlorella, the same way as you could choose exercise or a healthy diet. There will be arguments until the end of time if healthy food is better for your health than exercise alone, but in general we know that the two absolutely compliment and support each other. The same is true with Spirulina and Chlorella. One without the other is a great start. The two together? Watch out! Your body, mind and spirit will soar!
Emerald Garden Organic Chlorella is a vegetarian protein that contains 90% of the amino acids available and up to 7% chlorophyll. With a full range of vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, amino acids and ample protein, this food source is unique in that it actually nourishes the system while at the same time cleanses the body of toxins. Chlorella has a unique fibrous cell wall to bind all toxins including heavy metals, pesticides and herbicides and excrete them from the body. Also, Chlorella contains very unique Chlorella Growth Factors to promote growth and regeneration for a younger and more beautiful you! This broken-cell wall Chlorella is a powerful food that also supports the immune system, the cells/DNA, circulation and even blood sugar regulation. You can equally count on this natural cleansing agent to cleanse the colon, blood, kidneys, lungs and liver; as well as to stimulate healing and repair of tissue.
I encourage people interested in adding Organic Chlorella to their diet to begin slowly. Chlorella will most definitely be a great support, but to jump in at mega-doses may not be comfortable, depending on your level of health and/or toxicity. Hearing the amazing benefits of this superfood might inspire you to chug a whole bottle at once. Probably not the best idea. Chlorella’s amazing detox ability should be folded into your lifestyle with ease. Chlorella is capable of removing alcohol from the liver and heavy metals (such as cadmium, mercury, uranium and arsenic), certain pesticides, herbicides, and polychlorbiphenyls (PCBs) from the body’s tissues. Let your body adjust to the healing transformations, allow your system to release the negative toxins and gradually increase dosage as desired results are attained. An added bonus: weight normalization. When the functions of the body are balanced and cleansed, and the processes of assimilation and elimination are working correctly, the body will naturally revert to its ideal weight. As the body is supported at cellular levels, a sluggish bowel is restored, friendly bacteria in the gut are increased and the organs throughout are working with ease. Your energy levels soar, your skin radiates, your mental clarity sharpened and over-all vibrancy returns. It’s the miracle of Green. Green Algae that is.
If Chlorella is the cleansing nourisher, Organic Spirulina is the energy enhancing, nutrition champion of this powerhouse duo. The simple, multi-celled blue-green algae is a complete vegetable source protein that also offers a rare vegetarian form of GLA and is chock full of nutrients. The benefits of ingesting this highly alkaline food substance are so numerous, you’ll wonder why it’s not mandatory on our food pyramid. From antioxidant defense, anti-inflammation support, immune function enhancement, healthy circulation, increasing endurance and energy to preventing oxidative damage to your DNA and supporting healthy neurological function, Organic Spirulina is a win-win-win for your health. It’s highly absorbed protein content is a major bonus for vegetarians and vegans, which has made it a universal food option for all health enthusiasts. With the added nutritional benefits of chlorophyll, calcium, iron and antioxidants, anyone will benefit from Spirulina’s nutritional profile. In fact, Spirulina offers 10x more calcium than milk, 50x more iron than raw spinach and approximately 20x more chlorophyll than wheatgrass, barley grass or alfalfa! And, if you’re watching your weight, this is a perfect addition to your diet. It’s low fat and low calorie but you won’t sacrifice nutrition while monitoring food intake!
Organic Spirulina works congruously with its cousin Chlorella to enhance the natural cleansing and detoxification processes throughout the body. This duo is sure to take you to the next level of health. As is the case with all foods and supplements, it’s imperative to know the source and trust the brand you use.
Leah Guy is a Producer, TV Host, Writer and passionista for inspired, healthy living. She believes in 
A Girl Named Guy Productions is a multi-media company focused on Eco-tainment. Creator & CEO, Leah Guy, launched the company in 2006 with a goal to meet the demand for positive, inspired content for the mainstream audience. AGNG produces videos, 
