The Health Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage

The lymphatic system is perhaps the most poorly understood system of the body. Yet, it plays a tremendous role in your body's ability to repair and heal. Paying attention to the needs of your lymphatic system is one of the best preventative health measures you could ever take.

The Function of the Lymphatic System

Your lymphatic system is a complex network composed of millions of valves, nodes, ducts, and vessels that are located throughout the body. It has been described as a circulatory system of sorts that mainly transports white blood cells to help fight infection and disease, and also plays a vital role in eliminating toxins from the body. The lymphatic system has also been called the body's "internal vacuum cleaner". It has many similarities to the primary circulatory system of the body that transports blood, but there is one major difference. The heart pumps blood, but the lymphatic system has no pump of its own. Lymph fluid full of disease-fighting white blood cells and toxins to dispose of must be kept flowing through exercise and other techniques.

The lymphatic system is another marvel of creation that works both on the cellular level and in organs and systems of the body. It has far-reaching effects on the respiratory, musculo-skeletal, circulatory, endocrine, and immune systems of the body, and we simply cannot achieve peak wellness without paying attention to our lymphatic system and keeping it operating efficiently. It is also tied closely to the health of the skin, for when lymph fluid is flowing smoothly, the skin is both vibrant and supple, and toxins are more easily eliminated from the body through the skin.

The immune system is much more effective at battling illness when the lymphatic system is working well. Thus, the body is more able to resist viral infections, colds, respiratory ailments, allergies, and other illnesses with a healthy lymph system. Many women also experience increased relief from menstrual cramps and other hormonally-related symptoms after practicing lymph drainage.

A poorly operating lymphatic system can lead to chronic illnesses, aches and pains, skin disorders, fatigue, puffy eyes, swollen lymph nodes, spongy-like skin, joint pain, headaches, and numerous other unwanted maladies.

Lymphatic Drainage Techniques

In addition to a lifestyle of wellness that includes a healthy diet consisting of organic fresh fruits and vegetables, plenty of pure water, sunshine and regular physical exercise, there are three primary ways that I recommend for keeping your lymphatic system free-flowing and healthy.

Skin Brushing. In essence, skin brushing is a type of massage that focuses on the lymphatic system and stimulating it to flow and be more efficient. You can brush your own skin, or your spouse can get involved too if you prefer. Choose a natural bristle brush specifically designed for skin brushing, and only dry-brushing is suggested. Use short, upward strokes, always brushing towards the heart, starting at the feet and working up. Above the heart, such as from the hands down the arm, brush up towards the heart. The whole routine should be done daily, taking about three or four minutes. Because this actually "wakes-up" the body, it is advised not to perform skin-brushing at night. This is an excellent way to maintain lymphatic health, and you will likely come to enjoy it as well.

Rebounding. Invest in a mini-trampoline and begin "rebounding." This fun and very helpful form of exercise provides many benefits, and is particularly good for the lymphatic system. It promotes natural lymphatic drainage due to the effects of bouncing against the force of gravity. You do not have to run or even jump high in order to get the full effect of rebounding. Fifteen minutes daily broken up into 7.5 minute sessions is a great start. Rebounding has literally dozens of additional benefits, and many health-conscious individuals fall in love with it and incorporate it consistently into their workout regimen.

Deep Breathing. Deep breathing is another healthy habit that has multiple benefits and is also excellent for the lymphatic system. It is best to sit upright in a chair or lie on a mat or bed with your knees slightly bent. Breathe in deeply to a count of four, focusing on inhaling from the abdomen. Do not allow your shoulders to rise. Place your hands on your abdomen so that you can feel the rise and fall of the abdomen. Then, exhale to a count of four slowly while completely emptying your lungs. In addition to helping you relax and increasing the amount of oxygen in your system, your lymphatics will also become more active and efficient.

Consistent care for your lymphatic system will help you to cleanse and energize your mind and body. It is also a very necessary practice to do in conjunction with other cleansing routines such as colon, liver, and gallbladder cleansing.

Negative Emotions and Your Health

The concept of a mind-body connection is as old as time itself. The Bible and other ancient literature refer to the benefits of joy, laughter, and other positive emotions, as well as to the physically damaging effects of bitterness, unforgiveness, and similar negative emotions. The French mathematician and philosopher Rene Descarte proposed such a connection, a view that put him at odds with the Catholic church during the Middle Ages. Many conventional health practitioners of the last century have scoffed at such a notion, but new scientific tools and diagnostic techniques have recently kindled new interest in and respect for this holistic approach to health and wellness.

Many studies have been done that indicate proof positive that people who are emotionally healthy -- feeling positive about themselves and their relationships with others -- are much less prone to getting sick and tend to heal much faster if they are fighting an illness. Modern imaging techniques have even given us pictures that support this theory. Specifically, abnormal intestinal activity, such as indigestion and stomach aches, have been documented to occur when negative stress sets off activities in the brain that chemically cause such discomfort.


Rather than doubting the effects of emotions on the body, many modern physicians are now embracing this idea. In fact, some new terms have cropped up in medicine in the last few years, terms such as "health psychologist," "behavioral medicine," and the field of "psychoneuroimmunology." More and more hard evidence is being discovered that gives increased creedence to what we have always instinctively known and what natural health practitioners have been proclaiming for years.

How Do Emotions Affect Our Physical Health?

Our bodies are basically complex chemical factories with the brain running the show. Our organs do not operate independently, but take their orders from the brain and central nervous system -- orders that are chemically delivered. Physical characteristics such as digestion, heart function, blood pressure, respiration, and other bodily functions are triggered by the release of hormones and other chemicals that are originally stimulated by the brain. Research has proven that negative emotions such as fear, bitterness, anxiety, anger, trying to get 'even ', depression, and unforgiveness can cause the release of chemical agents that lead to poor digestion and absorption of nutrients, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, and inflammation throughout the body, a key factor in cancer, heart disease, and many other debilitating conditions.

One of the most interesting and significant physical effects of negative emotions is how they impact the immune system. Hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol -- helpful and necessary when appropriate -- are released in abnormal amounts when a person is fearful, angry, or otherwise emotionally upset. These chemicals weaken the immune system and harm its ability to fight disease. The flip side of this scenario is that positive emotions such as laughter and contentment have been known to release chemicals that strengthen the immune system and act to prevent and heal cancer and other serious illnesses. In fact, as support for the mind-body connection grows, it is not uncommon for behavioral medicine specialists to assist medical teams in cardiac, intensive care units, and cancer care wards.

How Can I Manage My Emotions to Prevent Illness?

--Deal with negative feelings or emotions in a balanced way. Do not stuff them! This is the worst thing you can do. This may involve spiritual counseling, talking with a trusted friend, journaling, or involvement in a support group.

--Choose to forgive, if this is needed in your life. That's right, make a conscious decision to just forgive and then let it go! The decision to forgive may come with or without the feelings, but often the feelings come later.

--Watch out for the "everyone is out to get me" mind set. This brings on a victim mentality that can be a "cancer to the whole body" especially if it is allowed to fester.

--Take care of your health. We all experience stress and bad things in life at certain times. If we have a strong foundation of wellness to support us, we will be able to weather emotional storms more easily. Eat a healthy diet, exercise, get plenty of sleep, fresh air, and sunshine. Find a hobby, take up Pilates, Yoga or learn EFT. And remember to count your blessings and practice thankfulness!

--Develop a servant's heart. One of the best ways to heal our own toxic emotions is to reach out and help others. This can also establish healthy, loving relationships to replace or help heal those that are damaged in our lives. As the Bible says: "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

Why Should We Forgive People?
by Andrew Matthews (seashell.com.au)

At some point most of us learned that it is a good idea to forgive people. We learned that it is "holy" or "spiritual". But there is a more basic reason to forgive people: when you don't forgive them, it ruins your life!

Let's say: a) you are my boss and you give me the sack, or b) you are my girl, and you run off with my buddy. So I say, "I'll never forgive you for that!" Who suffers? Not you! I'm pacing the floor. I've got the knot in my stomach. I'm losing sleep. You are probably out partying! Where do we get the idea that if WE don't forgive people, THEY suffer? It's nuts!

Recent studies at the Public Health Institute in California confirm that hostility and resentment tear down your immune system and double your risk of heart attack, cancer and even diabetes. Bitterness makes you sick!

To forgive someone, you don't have to agree with what they did. You just have to want your life to work. Is it easy? Usually not. But you don't forgive people for their benefit. You do it for your benefit.

Anger Quotes

"He who angers you conquers you."
Elizabeth Kenny

"Whatever is begun in anger, ends in shame."
Benjamin Franklin

"He who is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who is quick-tempered exalts folly."
The Bible (Proverbs 14:29)

"Anger is the weak persons imitation of strength."

"Anger: an acid that can do more harm to the vessel in which it is stored
than to anything on which it is poured."
Seneca

Fear Quotes

FEAR: False Evidence Appearing Real

"Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy."
Dale Carnegie

"There are four ways you can handle fear. You can go over it, under it, or around it. But if you are ever to put fear behind you, you must walk straight through it. Once you put fear behind you, leave it there."
Donna A. Favors

"For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power and love and of a sound mind."
The Bible (2 Timothy 1:7)

The Importance of Keeping Your Liver Clean and Supported

Your liver is one of the busiest organs of your body and is involved in many different functions that are critical to overall health. Acting as the main filter for the body, an efficiently operating liver is a gatekeeper to help transport liver nutrients and to purge impurities throughout the body. It is very important that we understand the necessity of maintaining and supporting the liver through cleansing. A clean, efficient liver will help to keep the immune system supported.

Foundational Purposes of Your Liver

This hardworking organ is actually part of your body's glandular system, and is located in the lower right part of your abdominal cavity. It is quite large, weighing an average of three pounds, and is composed of thousands of lobules, a design which creates an effective filter for literally all of the body's blood supply.

Your liver's main function is to filter impurities out of the blood. These include alcohol, medications, and toxins from foods you eat and from environmental sources. However, your liver performs many other necessary tasks as well, including digestive functions such as producing substances that break down fats in our diets, producing bile, making urea (a major component of urine), regulating blood sugar, storing many vitamins and minerals, producing cholesterol, and manufacturing certain critical amino acids. As you can see, this vital organ plays many important roles that are necessary for your good health.

Two of the Liver's Primary Functions

Your liver is essential for proper digestion in the body. Bile, one of the body's main digestive agents, is produced by the liver and transported to the small intestine where the majority of digestion takes place. Bile is stored in the gallbladder when not immediately needed. Bile also plays a secondary role in eliminating toxins from the body. The liver also produces, processes, and stores necessary substances such as protein, fats, and amino acids. Proper digestion and absorption of nutrients cannot occur without an efficiently operating liver.

The circulatory system is also very dependent on the liver. The blood cannot transport oxygen and other nutrients, and cannot properly eliminate waste products, without the functions of this unique and complex organ.

Keeping Your Liver Healthy

There are three main things to remember when it comes to the health of your liver. First, eating a healthy, organic diet that is free of toxins such as pesticides, preservatives, and other harmful chemicals is imperative. Choose foods that are as close to nature as possible, focusing on organic fruits and vegetables and plenty of pure water. A diet high in fat, sodium, sugar and junk food is very hard on your liver. Be cautious about your intake of alcohol and prescription drugs as much as possible. Taking these steps will actually support your liver, and will make it easier for it to do its job well.

Acetaminophen Warning. Tylenol (acetaminophen) is actually one of the hardest drugs on your liver. Using the recommended dosages of Tylenol for as little as four days can actually cause liver damage. And those who consume caffeine with acetaminophen (Tylenol) may even be at a higher risk of liver damage. Acetaminophen often has caffeine added because it enhances the effects of the painkiller. Researchers at the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle found that between 1998 and 2003, the percentage of acute liver failure cases attributed to acetaminophen nearly doubled, rising from 28% to 51%. Acetaminophen is currently found in over 600 over-the-counter cold, flu, and headache medications. Some symptoms of acetaminophen overdose/toxicity include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing of the skin), and liver enzyme abnormalities. Jaundice is a phase 3 symptom of acetaminophen toxicity. So if you are experiencing an abnormal yellowing color of the skin, it is advised to seek immediate attention from a healthcare professional.Acetaminophen can be found in the following drugs.

• Tylenol
• Excedrin
• Midol
• NyQuil
• Sudafed
• Vicodin

Infants and Tylenol. Tylenol is one of the most over-prescribed drugs for infants and children. Most parents think that because the child's pediatrician says it is ok then there are no worries. However, this is not always true. Tylenol is often given for colds/flu when other meds are also given that may contain acetaminophen. According to a recent study, the use of Tylenol-type pain relievers in babies was linked to asthma (website accessed September 28, 2008: http://www.cbc.ca/health/story/2008/09/19/asthma-child.html). Reading labels is important! Sometimes parents are not aware of the difference between Infant drops and Tylenol for Children and thus infants are given Tylenol for Children. Many use Tylenol for teething but there are safer products (melt-in-the-mouth homeopathic tablets) available to help with the inflammation and pain that comes with teething. I urge caution and advise not to medicate unless it is very necessary.N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC), an amino acid, is what is given in hospital for acetaminophen overdose. It's also a wise choice to supplement daily with NAC, especially when taking acetaminophen, as it inhibits the buildup of toxic by-products in the liver, thus limiting free radical damage and antioxidant depletion.

Liver Cleansing is second but just as important as eating healthy. All filters either need to be replaced or cleaned and since having to replace the liver is not preferred, cleaning it and keeping it supported will go miles and miles toward good health. I recommend using a quality liver cleansing product to flush out this critical organ and allow it to operate at peak efficiency. We live in a very toxic world, and the liver is very challenged daily by all the poisons we are exposed to in our diets and environment. Do several liver and gallbladder cleanses to clean the liver and gallbladder, followed by maintenance liver and gallbladder cleanses several times a year.

Third, it is also wise to use a liver support product that will supply your body with organic substances and herbs that are very beneficial and supportive of liver function. Be sure to choose herbs that support the liver and are organic or wild-crafted herbs. Some of the ingredients you want to look for include:

• Dandelion root: Excellent for the liver and the gallbladder, kidneys, and digestive tract as well.
• Wildcrafted chanca piedra: Helps liver health and function by stimulating bile production, as well as by eliminating mucous and obstructions like stones from the liver, kidneys and gallbladder.
• Milk thistle seed: This versatile herb boosts the liver's ability to detoxify the blood and the body of impurities, and can also protect the liver from damage due to viruses and toxins like alcohol and prescription drugs.
• Marshmallow root and leaves: Has excellent anti-inflammatory qualities that aide the liver as well as other internal organs. It also fights bacterial infections and bolsters mucous membrane health in the liver and elsewhere.

Your liver is a very multifaceted organ that can restore and repair itself in amazing ways; yet, if neglected and not supported, it can lead to many unwanted health problems.

Additional Resources:

The Importance of Digestive Health
Wildcrafted Chanca Piedra and Your Liver

Spring Clean Your Body in Ten Easy Steps

As winter loses its gray, icy grip, spring is beginning to make all things new, and our thoughts turn towards cleaning and renewal. For most of us, our bodies need a good sprucing up just as much as our homes and yards. I am often asked what is most important in bringing the body toward health and wellness. Below is a list of ten basic steps that can help restore your health and steer you back towards overall wellness. Spring is a time for "new beginnings." Forget past failures. Begin today!

--Detoxify: Digestive tract health is important to the overall health and wellness of your body. A great place to begin is by cleansing the body of accumulated waste and toxins. I suggest my Optimum Wellness Liver & Gallbladder Cleansing Kit which contains a quality oxygenated colon cleanser together with a liver/gallbladder cleanse. The digestive tract is so critical for the absorption of nutrients and the health of the immune system, as well as for eliminating wastes. If it is unhealthy or constipated, it cannot operate efficiently, and can lead to numerous health problems. The liver and gallbladder are also vital for filtering the body of waste and providing proper digestion. A parasite cleanse will help rid the body of unwanted organisms that interfere with many bodily functions and rob us of nutrients. Many people also experience Candida symptoms. I would suggest performing the Optimum Wellness Candida Cleanse after the above mentioned cleanses.

--Purge your home of chemicals: The quality of indoor air is statistically much worse than most outdoor air. Chemical toxins from cleaning products, carpeting, construction materials, and other sources can alter brain chemistry and contribute to a variety of both mental and physical illnesses. Consider using ionizer air purification to cleanse the air in your home environment. Be careful about hazardous chemicals that may be used in lawn care too. Look for natural fertilizers and pesticides/herbicides. They will provide you with a healthy and weed-free lawn without toxic chemicals.

--Pure water: Drinking and bathing in pure, filtered water is essential. Your body needs ample amounts of water to maximize the function of all your organs and systems. The skin is the largest organ of the body, and bathing in water laced with fluoride, chlorine, and other toxins is dangerous. I suggest Wellness Filters on sinks and the shower.

--Stress reduction: There are many ways to reduce stress in your life, but it is imperative to your wellness that you do so. Physical and mental stress do untold damage to both mind and body. Some suggestions for managing it include: sleeping at least 8-9 hours every night; relaxing with good music; simply resting your mind and body by being quiet and alone for thirty minutes daily; relaxing herbal baths; Pilates; massage; Yoga; prayer and meditation. Find something that you like to do and make a hobby of it. Gardening is one of the best stress relievers that I know.

--Exercise: Getting daily physical exercise is foundational for a healthy lifestyle. Choose something you enjoy -- whether it be walking, biking, using a treadmill, rollerblading -- and be consistent. Rebounding on a mini-trampoline is also an excellent addition to your routine, both increasing circulation and stimulating your lymphatic system,and thus significantly increasing the amount of waste products eliminated from your body.

--Sunshine: On average, about 30-40 minutes of direct sunshine daily, without sunscreen and sunglasses, is recommended. The best times for this exposure are just after sunrise and just before sunset. Our bodies cannot produce vitamin D without sunshine, and this nutrient is critical for wellness (see #7 below). If you should need to be out in the sun for longer time periods, I suggest using an organic sunscreen such as Soleo Organics Natural Sunscreen. For "after sun" care for your skin, AloeCalm and Hydra-Tone are all-natural and very healing to the skin.

--Vitamin D: Vitamin D is essential for bone health, but is also a preventative factor in cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, arthritis, and many autoimmune illnesses such as lupus and fibromyalgia. Sunshine is the best source of vitamin D, but most people need to supplement with a quality Vitamin D-3 emulsified product. Emulsified means that the Vitamin D oil has been dispersed into microscopic particles to aid absorption and assimilation. The emulsified, liquid form of Vitamin D-3 is a proven form of Vitamin D-3 that helps increase Vitamin D levels in the body.

--Organic Multivitamin/mineral supplement: Everyone needs to consume a foundation organic supplement in this day in age because the foods we typically eat are grown in soil that is depleted of the many vitamins and minerals our bodies need on a daily basis. Be sure to choose a product that is highly bioavailable, and one containing fulvic acid. This amazing natural substance increases the body's ability to absorb nutrients and excrete wastes on the cellular level, which is of key importance to overall wellness.

--Grow your own produce: Whether you live in the city, suburbs, or in a rural area, it is possible to practice organic gardening. This is the best and most economical way to secure nutritious, non-toxic foods. If you choose to eat meats, only consume those that are produced without the use of harmful hormones and antibiotics, and ones that are naturally free-range fed, not grain-fed. Above all, take steps to direct your diet toward being organic and healthy. Eliminate fast food and pre-packaged foods and begin to eat as close to nature as possible.

--Personal care products: Go through your skin and personal care products and get rid of any that are not organic and not made from natural, toxin-free ingredients. The skin can easily absorb such poisons and quickly spread them throughout the body. Replace these products with organic skincare that is nutritious, natural, safe, and will not expose your body to harmful, dangerous chemicals.

Spring cleaning our homes provides a sense of peace, calm, and cleanliness. When cleaning the body, and keeping it clean, the very same sense of peace, calm, and cleanliness will be experienced. Added benefits will be supporting the immune system, providing more energy and less stress. It's just a win-win situation!

Feast on Pomegranates for Health & Wellness

If you are looking for a delicious, healthful food to bring some variety into your diet, a fruit called pomegranate may just fill the bill. My grandmother had a pomegranate tree in her backyard and it was a delight for us children to pick some of the fruit, retire to the shade, and eat the sweet but tangy seeds. It has gained quite a bit of status in the natural circles recently, but its popularity goes back much further than that. The pomegranate has a rich history that includes many references in ancient mythological, religious, and cultural writings. The Jewish people, and later Christians, highly regarded its fruit and considered it a symbol of righteousness. Still today, it is eaten by some Jews on Rosh-Hashanah as part of a ritual to celebrate fruitfulness. It has appeared in Judeo-Christian art, is mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible, and a legend is believed by some that the pomegranate was the "forbidden fruit" eaten by Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden.


It is believed the pomegranate was originally native to the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions, but it now grows wild throughout India as well. It is also a popular cultivated crop in Southern Europe and California.

How Can Pomegranates Improve My Health?

Legends and mythology aside, this fruit has been rediscovered in the last few years, and its popularity is now increasing due to clinical studies that have scientifically verified the benefits of the pomegranate and identified some of its healthful components. Israeli food scientists have been particularly active in studying the characteristics and benefits of this fruit. The ancients instinctively knew that the pomegranate was nutritious, and now the modern logical minds of the western world are being convinced too.

The pomegranate fruit, seeds, and juice are a bountiful source of natural goodness. This exotic fruit is very rich in a variety of antioxidants, and in fact is higher in some antioxidants than green tea, red wine, orange juice, or cranberry juice. Pomegranate is a significant source of beta-carotene, polyphenols, tannins, and other bioactive substances that boost the immune system, counteract free radicals, reduce inflammation, bolster the cardiovascular system, and battle cancer. Pomegranate is also high in vitamins A, C, E, and folic acid.


Some of the major benefits of pomegranate include:

Cardiac health: Due to its many antioxidants, pomegranate has been proven in studies to reduce LDL ("bad" cholesterol), and increase HDL ("good" cholesterol). It also acts as a blood-thinner, and thus can reduce risk for heart attacks, strokes, and blood clots. One study also indicated an increase in oxygen to the heart muscle for cardiac patients who drank 8 ounces of pomegranate juice daily for a three-month period.

Cancer: Researchers are excited about the results of studies that indicate pomegranate's cancer-fighting properties. Specifically, prostate and breast tumors have been shrunk after using compounds in pomegranate, and it is likely that regular consumption of this fruit can prevent cancers such as these and others.

Joint health: Pomegranate is an excellent anti-inflammatory agent as well. Because of this quality, it is very helpful for many individuals who suffer from arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Scientists have found that certain properties of pomegranates counteract enzymes that break down cartilage and contribute to arthritis.

Anti-bacterial: Pomegranate is also reported to have compounds that fight off bacteria and viruses. These can help to prevent and defeat the common cold, and other respiratory conditions.


Different Ways to Serve Pomegranate

The taste of pomegranate has been described as a rich, unique blend of sweet and sour. The fruit itself is fleshy and very juicy, and can be fun and very challenging to eat. Many people also enjoy the seeds as a sweet snack. Other ways to use pomegranate include:

• The fruit and/or seeds in a salad.
• In smoothies.
• In pancakes, muffins, and other whole-grain baked goods.
• It can be made into a relish or salsa for dipping veggies.
• Pomegranate can also be made into a syrup, typically mixed with honey or another organic sweetener. This is an excellent topping for pancakes or waffles, or as an alternative way to sweeten a variety of dishes.

As with all foods, remember to choose organic pomegranates if at all possible. There are many different ways to enjoy pomegranate, and a slew of health benefits to reap. Enjoy experimenting with this delightful gift from our Creator.

The Importance of Digestive Health

There is an old saying that states: "Wellness begins in the digestive tract." This is not a common belief for many conventional physicians, but those of us who take a holistic approach towards wellness have been trying to educate about the importance of bowel health for a long, long time. It is here that many vital bodily functions take place including the processing of raw foods, absorption of nutrients, and the elimination of waste. In addition, a good percentage of immune function also occurs in the digestive tract. A properly operating digestive tract is absolutely necessary for good health, and one that is not efficient can lead to a myriad of health concerns and diseases.

Just what organs compose the digestive tract? The major ones include the colon, the small intestine, and the large intestine. The term "colon" is often used in conjunction with cleansing products, which we will discuss in a moment. But the entire digestive tract must be running smoothly for optimal wellness. For example, a complete and effective cleanse will purge the small intestine, which is where most nutrients are absorbed into the body.

When the digestive tract is running the way it was created to, the body is able to absorb maximum nutrition from the foods we eat, and is also able to effectively rid itself of waste products and other unwanted substances. We are designed to eat a diet of organic, whole foods with lots of raw fruits and vegetables. Not only do these foods provide a tremendous amount of usable nutrition, but they also contain a lot of roughage or fiber to keep the digestive tract naturally clean and able to do its job well. This type of diet enables the gut to effectively move unwanted fecal matter and other wastes so that nutrients can be efficiently absorbed and waste effectively eliminated. Unfortunately, what has occurred in many modern cultures, including the U.S., is that our diets have deteriorated. Eating too much junk and overcooked foods that are often full of preservatives and other poisons has left us starving for nutrients and having digestive tracts that are sluggish and unable to perform well. Our bodies are designed to have several bowel movements every day, but many people will only have one or two per week. This creates a very toxic environment in the gut, and thus in the entire body. Sadly, this is one of the main reasons why the incidents of many illnesses, including colon cancer, has surged in recent decades.

How Can I Know How Well My Digestive Tract is Doing?

Constipation or infrequent, irregular bowel movements, are leading symptoms of digestive tract problems. In addition to a poor diet, many Americans have gotten into the habit of postponing bowel movements. This is never a good idea. What happens is the muscles used to move your bowels become weak, and this only compounds the problem of a dirty digestive tract. Other symptoms or results of a clogged intestinal tract include:

• Diverticulitis
  
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  
• Weight gain
  
• Allergies & Sinus Infections
  
• Intestinal Parasites
  
• Crohn's Disease
  
• Aches and pains
  
• Fatigue
  
• Skin disorders (acne, eczema, psoriasis)
  
• Joint pain
  
• Intestinal cancers

As you can see, poor bowel health can negatively affect many parts of the body, and is a key factor that significantly impacts our overall health.


How Can I Improve My Intestinal Health?

There are several steps that can be taken to deal with a problem gut:

• First, I suggest a thorough and effective digestive tract cleanse, using an oxygenated cleanser. Why oxygen? First of all, it reacts with compacted waste in the intestines turning it into a liquid form that can be more easily eliminated. (Much more effective than herbal cleansers and laxatives.)


• Secondly, oxygenated colon cleansers provide additional oxygen that can be transported throughout the body. Oxygen is an excellent healer, and a lack of it can lead to a diseased environment. Incidentally, the amount of oxygen in the atmosphere has dropped dramatically in the last hundred years.


• Use a quality spore-bearing probiotic to restore the balance of flora in the gut. Due to abuse of antibiotic drugs, most people have very low levels of certain helpful bacteria that aide in digestion and absorption of nutrients. Using a probiotic can be a big boost for intestinal health.


• Cleanse your body of parasites by using a organic herbal parasite cleanse product that rids the body of these harmful hitchhikers. A compromised bowel provides an atmosphere where these harmful invaders can thrive, posing numerous threats to your health.


• Eat a healthy diet high in organic fruits and vegetables and other raw foods. It is also critical that you drink plenty of pure water every day. A diet such as this will not only help to reverse poor bowel health but can prevent it as well.


• Finally, get regular exercise every day out in the sun. Walking is effective, safe and only requires good walking shoes. If you cannot get sun every day, then consider using an emulsified Vitamin D-3 product. Exercise supports your health in numerous ways, including keeping your intestinal tract healthy and clean.

More Information

Colon Cancer, Obesity, and Inflammation
FAQs About Oxygen-Based Colon Cleansing
Total Body Cleansing 101

The Case Against Aspartame

NutraSweet. Sounds like a pretty good product -- nutritious, sweet, low-calorie and approved by the FDA. Well, that's what the makers of aspartame (G.D. Searle) and the commercial food and diet industries want us to think, but in truth, this chemical poison is one of the most damaging substances ever introduced into the food chain. Let's take a look at some of the basics about how aspartame affects the body, and how it is cloaked in secrecy and controversy, and never should have been approved for human consumption.

The first thing you need to understand is that aspartame, known by the brand names NutraSweet and Equal, is a multi-billion dollar product that is sold directly as a sweetener, but is also used in many consumer products. Thus, many people are exposed to it without even realizing it. The food industry loves this product, and they make a fortune from it. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the makers of aspartame spent megabucks in their efforts to get FDA approval and that some very suspicious things occurred during this process. Consider the following:

• In 1981, a researcher within the FDA was so concerned about data that pointed towards brain tumors caused by aspartame, that he stated he could not recommend its approval.
  
• Studies investigating aspartame's possible link to birth defects were cut off before completion because of "damaging information" about aspartame.
  
• Other studies about aspartame's effects on individuals with mood disorders were also stopped because of a dangerous increase of serious symptoms within the population being studied.
  
• Airline pilots have been warned against using aspartame in over twenty articles in various flight magazines including those published by the Air Force and the Navy. In fact, a hotline was set up for pilots to report adverse reactions to aspartame, and over 600 pilots reported experiencing seizures in the cockpit after using aspartame. How can the FDA ignore such data and continue to approve this toxic substance?
  
• In 1991, the FDA banned the import of the herbal sweetener stevia, and in the last few years resistance against stevia has surfaced in regulatory circles. It is estimated that stevia, which has been proven to be safe for human consumption, is a huge financial threat to the aspartame industry. Thus, it is very interesting that in 1992, shortly after this ban, the FDA approved widespread use of aspartame.
  
• There is also evidence that studies were falsified and misrepresented by G.D. Searle during the FDA pre-approval phase. Unfortunately, this is not uncommon in the world of FDA. Coincidentally, several high-ranking FDA officials that were involved in the ultimate approval of aspartame later moved into jobs with G.D. Searle or other companies linked to aspartame.

What Are the Hazards of Aspartame?

This "natural" substance, as the industry likes to call it, is actually composed of several very toxic chemicals that have been linked to cancer, birth defects, seizures, and other serious disorders.

50% of aspartame is a substance called phenylalanine, a naturally occurring amino acid found in certain foods. However, when it is isolated from other amino acids, and in high doses as in aspartame, it is very toxic and can cause brain dysfunction and mental retardation, especially in individuals who genetically cannot process phenylalanine (those with PKU).

Another major component of aspartame is methanol, which breaks down in the body into free-radicals formaldehyde and other hazardous substances. Methanol is a neurotoxin or "neuroexciter" that can cause hyperactivity, headaches, anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, chest pain, high blood pressure, and other neurological side effects.

Because of its unique chemical structure, aspartame is very easily absorbed by the bloodstream and into organs throughout the body. Because of this quality, some researchers believe aspartame has the ability to trigger or mimic the symptoms of many illnesses including:

• ADD/ADHD
• Epilepsy
• Alzheimer's Disease
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
• Diabetes
• Migraines/headaches
• Fibromyalgia
• Hypothyroidism (low thyroid function)

Better Choices: Stevia, Agave Nectar & Organic Fruits

If you haven't already, I strongly suggest eliminating all sources of aspartame from your diet and then performing several liver/gallbladder/digestive tract cleanses in order to purge your system. If you need a sweetener, try using the herb Stevia or Agave Nectar from the agave cactus plant. Neither will spike insulin levels, and both are nutritious. Many people like to use freshly juiced organic fruit for use as a sweetener. You may be pleasantly surprised at how much better you will feel, simply by eliminating aspartame from your diet.