Barbados, the Caribbean Island known for its hustle and bustle lived up to its reputation, even in the slow season, as June is one of it’s slowest months. High season is long:  October-May and they are located outside the hurricane belt.  The Island is a working island that is committed to tourism and is a port for several cruise ships.  Barbados means business year round however; the only time the local Bajans really let their hair down is June and July when the tourist season slows way down and they get to have some fun. The US dollar is equal to 2.00 in Barbados at least we have some value with our money here.

 Yes, I am happy when my work takes me to an Island, however a little more free time to explore would have been welcomed.  I fell in love with the people. They have such a precious, happy, genuine spirit about them. They truly love each day and make the most out of it. The work ethnic beats out any of the other Caribbean  Island I have visited, although my goal is to travel to all of them in my lifetime. The downfall of living here are taxes- many  Bajans have to work 2 jobs just to survive.

As a current  member of the American Tea Party movement, I can not complain about our taxes after learning about what they pay  and am thankful. I do  know that there is a VAT tax (value added tax) bill being introduced soon, yes… here in the US … stay tuned.  Please vote AGAINST this as it will penalize us for eating out and traveling will become even more expensive. Our government is trying to recoup some of their extravagant spending and where will this fall? On us- the American consumer. It will further hurt our local tourism business.

Barbados is a more expensive island than others, because of the high government and import taxes along with a VAT tax that is added to all tourist expenditures from hotels to meals that ranges from 7.5% to 15% extra. There are many duty free shops that offer some bargains but also very high end designer shops opening on the Gold Coast on the Western side of the island.  These folks really need a break and they are playing the high end tourism card. One example was my firend who bought a bathing suit cover-up for 250 US /500 Barbados . Amazing . I would have used a towel or a t-shirt.

Many products  including natural foods and supplements , will cost the importers  a minimum of a 47% landed cost.  The people are very well educated,  joyful and extremely well mannered.  Natural foods and healthier living are becoming more important to the people and High Cholesterol and Blood Pressure are rampant. These conditions are at the foundation of a Diabetes explosion on the Island . The two local natural products markets are Natures Discount stores and medical center www.naturesdiscount.com since the early 90’s  The  Jenn Health store, started in 1985  , which also operates a vegetarian deli and restaurant www.jennhealth.com . Both businesses are expanding and improving their offerings more each year and  locals are showing an  increased support for integrated health measures. From one of the  chef’s at the Hilton  to their supervisor in the executive lounge to the housekeepers- all were interested in improving their health anbd learning how to change their diets.

 Rhonda Charles, a knowledgeable , delightful and passionate women looks at least 15 years younger than she is, spouts off health tips every Thursday on the radio show – The Voice of Barbados at 9:30 am . I was honored to be her guest and we had a blast.  Working in the Natures Discount stores and training the staff was inspiring. We are all so different but meeting people globally truly educates you, better than sitting in classroom. The Bridgetown store has a  world renowned body builder name Morris who is over 50 and has abs of iron. I was very impressed. Local blood pressure screenings and cholesterol checks keep George Warren busy as global diseases unify all of us. The Bajan’s downfall are the massive amounts of carbs on every dinner plate-especially the white potatoes, cream and the Bajan bakes … fried sweet wheat flour -major cholesterol and high blood pressure boosting foods. I did enjoy the Flying fish and breadfruit mash and pumpkin is served as they grow locally.  

 If you have a car, driving is on the left, you can venture out and save money on meals. The local fish fry in Oistins  is a bargain and a great way to meet the locals, located  along the southern shore  and close to the airport. Dinner ranges about 20-30 Barbados without drinks. Take in the local  music and  straw market with local handicrafts. The  hot sauce is made with scotch bonnet peppers is amazing and a  must buy … it is sold everywhere. One of my  favorites was  ECAF, made locally in Bridgetown; a hot, but flavorful infused with mustard sauce. Some also include turmeric for extra color and health benefits. Of course read the ingredients as some brands do add food colorings, corn or wheat starch.

Barbados is a larger island spanning 166 miles and is divided into parishes instead of counties. Bridgetown was in  St Michael’s parish. All the parishes were names after men, except one. St Lucy must have been quite a women!  The Atlantic side is much quieter than the Caribbean side and offers phenomenal surfing but limited swimming. If you are looking to get away from it all try the Atlantis Hotel.  A renovated 8 room chic- romantic place with fabulous food, a pool and ambiance - close to the Andromeda Botanical gardens. For surfing lessons try Zed’s Surfing adventures www.barbadossurf.com or for an individual lesson, try Mobile Surf lessons  www.surfing-barbados.com

Barbados offers many topside activities from Canopy Zip lining www.arialtrek@carisurf.com to Island safaris -tour Barbados in a 4×4 www.islandsafari.bb to Segaway eco tours www.segwaybarbados.com 

The beautiful ocean surrounding this Island offers many treasures below the surface. The diving  mainly on the south and west coasts, was lower visibility than ususal since they were in the middle of an algae bloom, lending a green tint and limited vis of 40-50 feet. When this lifts, the 100 ft vis will be back. There is a barrel coral disease that is happening slowly to the reefs. The coral was absolutely beautiful. In great shape and NO lionfish or traces of oil! There were hawksbill turtles on every dive. There were so beautiful. No sharks. Plenty of fish. The guys at the Barbados Blue Dive Shop, a few minutes from the Hilton where we stayed were fabulous, fun and concerned about safety and low key. The dive sites are close by so your surface interval is back at the shop or the beach  www.divebarbadosblue.com/434-5764. The water temperature was 84 degrees so I only needed a skin, even when I went on the famous wreck The Stavronikita, which sits at a 130 feet ; the max for recreational diving, I was never cold.  A minor miracle for me. Andre Miller is a world renowned marine biologist who also owns a dive shop in Grenada (another trip coming soon!) Kayaks are available here too, free of charge when you stay at the hilton www.hilton.com

For those of you who don’t dive, there were plenty of daily snorkel trips to the turtle sanctuary, fishing trips and catamaran and sailing trips . www.oceanadventures.com  The Silver Moon catamaran offers deluxe trip allows only 12 guests and is the best ! Another low key operator is Shasa cruises..www.shasacatarmarancruises.com

Although we stuck close to the hotel and ate there several times , Brown Sugar-excellent regional cuisine, the fish fry ,and a few other local places, our favorite was Mangos by the Sea www.mangosbythesea.com and watching the sun sink into the glassy ocean beneath it.

My friend Karen Clarke in Freeport, Bahamas  has a friend who owns Mangos , Pierre  -so it was a must-do experience. All the way up in Speightown (St. Peter Parish) it was worth the 45 min  drive.  A plus for traveling in the slower tourism months of the summer is that we were seated instantly and enjoyed top-notch service. The food, drink and company was incredible.  A definite splurge.

Barbados offers so much. The soil is rich and the people do grow sugar cane and sweet potatoes . Many people have their own gardens.  Locally grown herbs and bush tea is popular. There are goat and dairy farms and local pastures for farm animals. Eat local and save some money. The imnported good have the higher taxes. The old and the new are melding and there is a sense of global change in the wings.

 I encourage you to put this island in your bucket list. Meet the people, make a difference, leave a good reputation.

In Continued Health, Sally

Where did spring go? Summertime heat hit most of us of hard this last month after one of the coldest winters ever, across the entire country.  The mugginess, mosquitoes, flies, tics,  no-see-ums and more are upon us. There are numerous  herbal and natural products that I use for natural bug and insect repellents. My herb garden has grown well in just a month;  I already have herbs and flowers in bloom and am enjoying the fresh herbs with my meals and in my iced herbal and green teas.

One of my favorites is  Rose Geranium which is part of the citronella family - there are many spectacular flavors ranging from lemon to chocolate.  Rose remains a favorite and I use the essential oil as part of my summer scents to detract insects of all types. Perfume ceased to exist in my personal care routine after the dangers of formaldehyde poisoning, synthetic fragrances and chemicals emerged into my knowledge base about 2o years ago.  So many people have allergies and or chemical sensitivities and they have no idea that it may be their favorite scent in body lotion or shampoo. Geranium,  literally keeps the bugs away and helps you maintain a positive mood.  People always comment on the fragrance.

Aromatherapy is a powerful  healing medicine that has clinical applications in many areas from insect bites to many types of first aid actions.  Oils can be anti-inflammatory, repellents, antiseptic, wound healing, anti-parasitical, deodorizing and emotionally lifting and healing.

Essential oils, the form of aromatherapy most commonly used,  are usually steam distilled essences from fragrant plants, flowers and trees. The components are numerous rendering them for a variety of applications from a pleasant fragrance to a therapeutic condition.

The better oils that are not adulterated contain small molecules that can penetrate the skin and eventually enter into your bloodstream.  The body usually clears them in under 14 hours.  Essential oils are very concentrated and that is why a few drops  be enough per application.  The oils can be used singularly or in combinations depending on the result or fragrance you wish to accomplish.

I usually use a high quality oil like Aura Cacia ( www.auracacia.com) and mix it with an unscented body lotion, a neutral gel (aloe, calendula or silver) or carrier oil, body lotion or  a light weight carrier oil like grape-seed (1 oz)  Add  in 3 drops of geranium,  2  lavender or  lemon balm and 3 sandalwood. This emits a wonderful daytime scent that keep the bugs away and is less medicinal  and healthier than conventional options.  So many people ask me what perfume I am wearing.  When Hiking or gardening, I use some tea tree mixed w/ geranium and or lavender and apply it around my hairline, wrists and ankles.  The insects may still fly around you but they won’t land.  Adding some oregano oil or thyme oil for tics may also be necessary when tromping through fields and grasses.

Other oils that can be used to repel insects or treat stings and bites etc are: Penny-royal, eucalyptus, citronella, rosewood, patchouli, cedar-wood and cedar. Choose the scents that you like and customize your own formula. Using over 5 different oils may be counter productive as the anti-bacterial qualities may be weakened – so stick to 2- 4 when customizing yours.  A little goes long way. You can store them in the refrigerator for the best nutrient protection.

Oils can also be directly applied to your bath oil, light bulbs, decorative pine cones  or used in a diffuser for additional home and or office protection or just direct inhalation directly from the bottle, a cotton ball or pie e of cloth.

For people with skin sensitivities, a drop or oil on a cotton ball behind your ear is a good way to test .Caution for pregnant women:  Some oils will stimulate menstruation so please wait until after the first trimester and then perform a skin patch test.  Also, oils like Bergamont should not be used with constant sun exposure, tanning beds or even a hot kitchen as it may affect skin pigmentation.  There are other precautions for other ailments so always do your research first.  One of my favorite very detailed books is The Encyclopedia of Aromatherapy by Chrissie Wildwood.  An easy to read reference book is Aromatherapy for Everyone , by PJ Pierson & Mary Shipley.

Many women experience an increased of headaches in the warmer months.  According to Chrissie Wildwood, a great balm for relieving headaches is as follows: massage the cream or oil into the base of the neck or on the temples in a small circular motion.

Headache Balm : 2 drops  lavender , 5 drops eucalyptus and and 5 drops peppermint in an unscented carrier oil or cream (30 g)

Sometimes adding a couple drops of Clary Sage will offer additional benefits.  This uplifting oil helps to promote laughter and a good mood. Works great in a diffuser with screaming kids or a challenging business day. For those of you who have trouble with insomnia, try adding these oils to your bath, pillow or sachet or using them on a light bulb in your bedroom. Oils such as Sandlewood, Chamomile, Lavender, Melissa, mandarin, hops, neuroli, ylang/ylang and vervitier may help relax your body when your brain would shut down .

Some of the oil brands that I like are Simplers Botanical corp ( www.simplers.com , Eden Botanicals ( www.edenbotanicals.com) Ananda Oils (www.anandaapothecary.com) and Young Living ( www.youngliving.org).

So venture into the world of aromatherapy and feel and sense the difference, without the risk of toxic chemical poisoning from your perfumes and your bug spray.  You may be pleasantly surprised.

In Continued Health,

Sally Byrd

ROSEMARY

Sally's new Herb garden

The warm weather has finally hit Florida and the pollen counts are higher than ever.  People are walking around with runny noses and red eyes from the Oak pollen that is dropping everywhere.  Throughout the Southeast Region we are experiencing record high pollen levels.  I am truly blessed with a very strong immune system, but for those that are not – It’s time to strengthen yours with some super foods that can recharge your health.

In regard to immune health protocols  - Be sure that you have tackled the basics:  extra B-Complex 50-150 mg, Vitamin C  with bioflavonoids 1,000-3,000 mg, Quercitin 1500mg,  Dr. Venessa’s  Liverclean 3-6 tabs, Dr. Venessa’s  Respiratory & Bronchial Support 4-6 tabs, and the North American Herb & Spice OregaResp 2-8 caps, with either Immune Power 2 caps , Host Defense liquid and Mushroom Wisdom Maitake & Reishi mushrooms extract , Allimax garlic and Silverbiotics or Sovereign Silver …

You can add some flavor and extra immune protection from the herbs and spices that you cook with.  Not only do they help you recharge your immune system but they can build  brain power, increase your metabolism , enhance your sleep , improve your mood while  enhancing  the flavor of your food.

Starting some herbs in pots on your back porch or in your apt or home is easy. The rewards are plentiful.  With the help of my friend Danny,  I now have a new raised-bed garden for my herbs.  The Florida coast soil is alkaline and salty and the soil needs reconditioning with Black Kow or other soil enhancers. My favorite herb to grow here  is basil  and rosemary … I have the Queen Thai  , Greek, Lemon and sweet large Italian leaf Basil  and flowering rosemary .   More favorites:  Cuban & Greek oregano,  pineapple and traditional sage, marjoram, bay leaf, Culantro ( doesn’t bolt as fast as cilantro) Italian flat leaf parsley, lemon verbena, lemon balm, lemon thyme, lavender and scented geranium and Thai peppers, garlic chives and lemon grass.  The chocolate mint and an Egyptian mint are planted in another bed so they don’t cross pollinate with the basil … my sisters enlightened me to previous experience when their basil crop was ruined, making leaving both herbs with a bitter aftertaste .

ELLEN

I buy my herbs from Ellen Kirouac – Wild Rose Workshop at the local St. Augustine farmer’s market.  Her herbs are organic and she always has a wide selection to choose from available.  Plus she recycles the pots and trays.  Her  homemade jams and chutneys are very popoular and her artistic skills grace a line of greeting cards.  Ellen is a terrific resource-904-461-1284 /wildrose2@bellsouth.net.

Although, I have been using herbs and spices liberally in my diet since childhood, they are finally earning media attention with integrative health professionals like  Dr. Peter D’Adamo, Dr. Eric Braverman, Dr. Aman, Dr. Jonny Bowden and Dr. Andrew Weil.  It’s about time. Food tastes so much better!

Basil, a relative of the mint family is not only great for relaxing your nerves and mucous membrane activity( sinus issues!)  but it also serves as a mood elevator and digestive aid. Rosemary , a powferful anti-inflammatory has extraordinary circulation properties including passing through the blood-brain barrier to keep your processing speed reved up ……it also helps to remove additonal environmental toxins from your blood and will reduce your appetite in larger quantities .  No household should be without it and it will winter even in cold climates.

Turmeric (you can also grow this but I buy it already ground ) is the best anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant exhibiting  spice there is. Turmeric is amazing-  breaks up brain plaque while  improving circulation issues and can stop diarrhea and relieve bronchitis. Try some ginger and turmeric before you reach for an aspirin next time you have a headache. Learn to love curry as turmeric counts for 2% of this spice or you take in capsule/tablet form from Jarrow , New Chapter & Nature’s Way.

Marjoram and Oregano sometime get confused as they both help build immune support and taste great with Mediterranean dishes.  Marjoram improves circulation and appetite while oregano acts as an anti-microbial agent and reduces the severity of headaches, coughs, allergies and colds. Culantro and Cilantro are some of the best detox herbs for heavy metals and toxins that store in your fat cells and reduce immunity as you age. I use Lemon verbena and Pineapple sage in my herbal ice teas, they keep you calm while maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Lemon balm, traditionally used to repel pesky insects, is a soothing  herbal sedative that acts as an anti-spasmodic and anti viral agent. Sage exhibits a strong pungent and pleasant fragrance  that helps to perk up sluggish memories, heal gums and tissue, reduce inflammation and promote a healthy overall nervous system.  Bay leaves grown fresh taste completely different than those dried and left for months on the store shelves. Bay Leaves have anti-fungal and bacterial applications and help to balance elevated blood sugar levels. Many people with digestive disorders or edema /water retention  use them for tea. The Thai hot peppers will be used to spice up my cooking and provide a healthy circulation, proper digestion and reduce mucus and allergy sniffles. I will be adding Datil peppers, a local Spanish hot pepper soon.

There are several favorites that I do not grow: Cinnamon being one of them.  This sweet, flavorful spice encourages digestive, sugar regulation and adds an abundance of vitamins and minerals. Ginger, shredded on your food will add a zesty hot-pungent flavor while improving your circulation and digestion. Cumin (both the seed which is stronger and powder), another fantastic anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor regulating digestion and relieving coughs, flu and congestion. Some effective seeds like Coriander (from the cilantro plant) and Fennel seed provide digestion and immune support benefits too.

Using herbs daily will make eating more fun and provide the maximum nutrient benefits.  Strive for at least 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs daily to make a difference in your health .   Add in some fresh lime and or lemon juice, red onion, garlic, olive oil and you have a spicy nutritious base for any protein. With continued use, your health will be evident -whata  difference for a few sprigs of herbs verses a large salad – no comparison on nutrient values. Earthbound Farms now has a mixed lettuce mix with added herbs to save oyu the fuss from what to add .  Always buy your dried herbal powders and spices from a reputable source like Frontier Herbs – www.fronteircoop.com.  They are of the best quality and are never irradiated for nutrient optimization.  Dried herbs only last about 6 months so buy them in smaller quantities. Freeze your fresh herbal leaves chopped,whole or in a pesto spread to use in winter dishes when buying fresh herbs may be more expensive. Use them liberally year -round for the best health benefits.

Organic Farmers Jeff & Joann

So spice it up this month and feel great!  The pollen season will be ending soon and you can recover until fall goldenrod season starts ! See if you notice the difference! Support your local  farmers markets and buy fresh and in season when ever possible .

In continued health,

Sally Byrd

Just coming back from the largest Natural Products show in the country is always both exhilarating and  exhausting. What’s new, Where to eat, What brand is hot?,  Who works where?, and the trade show mantra rolls on.  Been attending to this show since the spring of 1984 …wow  … how times have changed.

Gluten free products took center stage at Expo West this year . Our industry is turning out more and more products made with unfamiliar grains and starches to eliminate the wheat , barley , rye , oats and sometimes millet & buckwheat. Even the conventional supermarkets  are adding more sku’s as public demand rises .Why the trend ? What’s wrong with whole wheat anyway?

Wheat in our present food supply ; organic or not -white or white -hard or soft, contains about 7x’s more gluten than our biblical ancestors . Gluten is  the glue like protein that helps bread to rise , pizza dough pliable and chewy bagels .

Gliaden, the real culprit of the disease,  is part of the gluten molecular structure. The intestinal villi become damaged and they lay flat in the “colon fingers” so the food particles are not absorbed but pass through the colon undigested causing chaos  in other organs. Science show that this sensitivity  to both Gliaden and gluten is commonly  inherited. This interference with digestion inhibits the absorption of many important nutrients  including fat soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D and K  and even water  needed for daily health.

The disease, named Celiac Sprue has gained public attention with both the medical field and with consumers over the last 75 years.  The disease is vast and is not age discriminant.  In children signs of stunted growth,  loose bowels, vomiting and bloating are common. Adults symptoms span from intense food cravings to rapid weight accompanied by diarrhea, abdominal cramping, bloating and distention,intestinal gas, muscular atrophy and weakness, extreme fatigue, anemia, red blisters on the elbows, knees and legs, cracks in the tongue,  edema and leg and toe cramping.

The only way the research has shown to reduce these symptoms is to eliminate the culprit foods from one’s diet.  It is tough to make dietary adjustments, especially with a family or other people to cook for in your  household.  However, it certainly is better to remove a food, than to live in pain and possible addiction to prescription medications.

I missed seeing Jim Carrey at the show – he actually made a guest appearance at the  Mary’s Gone Crackers booth . I believe his child has autism and wheat and gluten must be eliminated from their diet along with dairy products. These quinoa and flax seed based rice crackers are amazing, crunchy, unique and low in carbs, about 140 calories for 13 crackers and 3 grams of fiber per serving !  Other cracker favorites of mine are the Blue Diamond Nut thins (only 130 calories for 17 crackers!)   Edward & Sons Brown Rice crackers and Sami’s Millet & Flax garlic crackers (wheat not gluten free).  You  won’t miss the saltines or Ritz crackers when you have these flavorful, lower carb and healthier alternatives.

There are so many great companies out there now. Instead of wheat (semolina or Durham flour) I use Tinkyada Brown Rice Pasta. You wont miss it. I even make my holiday lasagna using their noodles and nobody noticed the difference. Of course we all love  brown rice and Lundberg Brown Basmati is fabulous along with Ancient Harvest Quinoa - that offer the highest protein of any grain and cooks in only 15 minutes.

I have been following a  wheat free diet (with a few exceptions here and there) for the last 15 years when I started Dr. D’Adamo’s blood type program. I believe that changing my eating habits have kept my immune system strong, and have delayed common aging complaints and have kept me free of medications.

The list for healthier foods made with unique grains ,lower carbs and better fiber counts are what we need to live a healthier lifestyle. The offerings at the trade show are amazing and coming soon to a natural product store near you . From bread to pretzels to desserts and snack foods , you can make some better choices for your health without sacrificing the taste.

For more information about Celiac Sprue including a basic diet and recipes, contact the Celiac Sprue Association at www.csaceliacs.org

Be good to your body and it will be good for you.

In Continued Health,

Sally

On January 28th, driving from Naples to the Orlando area  after a major training event,  I was involved in a late night car accident where my 2007 Toyota Camry was totaled and  no, the accelerator did not stick !

Yes, I was stunned, shocked and within minutes  bruises and burns from the airbag and impact were visible on my legs and feet.  I loved my car, but accidents do happen and it has been over 25 years since I have been in one. I am truly blessed along with the other young ladies involved to be alive today and thanking God for rescuing me from what could have been a tragic event.

Not wanting to go the Emergency room, I needed to get the inflammation and shock down fast as possible as my adrenals were working overtime and my blood pressure was temporarily elevated.

Before a late bedtime that evening, I took a scoop of Dr. Venessa’s Anti-Aging Collagen (my 3rd that day) – it is a terrific anti-inflammatory which will help the overall trauma, along with a hot shower and applied Arnica gel to reduce the bruising.  I also used my Recovery Chips (needle free acupuncture stones) on my circulation points and slept only about 6  hours.  I also applied a Tiger Balm patch on my neck.

The next morning – I was at the  Harmony Health & Acupuncture Clinic located at 303 N Baker Street-Suite A, Mount Dora, FL receiving an acupuncture treatment from my friend and also the owner- Janean Hamilton, a registered nurse and acupuncturist. I was fairly bruised by now and my head suffered from pressure on the left side.  Janean  got me to take some Chinese herbs called Yunnan Baiyao for the next 3 days which are used in Chinese medicine for treating the early stages of trauma – 407-758-1880/ www.HarmonyHealthACU.com

Janean treated me for trauma and circulation and massaged Traumeel into my lower legs.  Another version of this ointment Tropicin is sold in natural food stores.

I know with auto accidents that there are many delayed injuries and so the first level of defense was the Anti-Aging3 Collagen which I bumped up to 3-4 scoops daily.

I also doubled my brain and circulatory nutrients  for the next 2 weeks just to be sure that my circuits were in working order. The trauma and impact that my body absorbed needed to be cushioned and the healing time needed, accelerated so I could function at optimum levels.

Supplements  increased: Neuromins DHA: 400 mg, Acetyl-Carnitine 3,000 mg, PS 400 mg,  Alpha GPC 1300mg, DMAE 600 mg, Pycnogenol 500mg, Turmeric 2,000mg, Gotu Kola 900 mg, Rescue Remedy 12 drops daily, Liverclean 8 tabs, Neuromaxx 6 tabs, MSM 8,000 g, Vit D 10,000 IU and extra minerals, L-Typtophan 1,500mg and 2 OregaResp caps, Quercitin 1,500 mg and Greens+ and extra Sun Chlorella for RNA & DNA repair.

For hydration,  I drank Iceland Springs  ,8.8 spring water and Essentia Water, 9.5 (with added Cell Food drops) – both high Alkaline  waters to offset any additional acid produced by the accident trauma. Another new high Ph water, Aqua Hydrate at a 9.0 is also good.

To further reduce inflammation and keep my energy levels revved up, I increased  my Itoen Sencha Shots, so I was drinking 2-3 daily or 2  bottles of the new Oi Ocha ,dark green tea with 3 cups of Guayaki Yerbe Mate Tea ( or 1 -18 oz glass bottle ) for mental clarity and the Numi Chamomile -Lemon Myrtle tea in the evenings with my Collagen. Lots of  fluids to hydrate the brain. Remember when you are thirsty, 3% of  your brain is already dehydrated. Aging already shrinks the brain, add in dehydration and stress.  It’s no  wonder many of us have trouble focusing and remembering details. Brain – dead takes on a whole new meaning!

Our brain  is the computer chip or the fuse box of our body and controls everything else the body does. When communication is optimal everything else falls into place and you can focus on organ health and restoration. When involved in any accident, trauma or illness,  protecting the brain has to be your first line of defense.

Due to a heavy travel schedule for work , that included NYC (1 day later for a live radio show on  the  Willner Window)  to  Los Angeles ,CA for trade show to ATL  for trainings (yes, I may be crazy but the show must go on !), I followed up with another acupuncture treatment 1 week later at the Samra University Acupuncture Clinic and Health Center in Los Angeles: 1730 W Olympic Blvd, 3rd Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90015 – where my friend Laura Murphy practices # 213-381-1700. It is a great deal for all of us budget conscience folks – only $25.00 per treatment and the herbs are $8 – $12.00; a considerable cost savings. The therapists are excellent and they really care about you regaining or maintaining your health.  A thumbs up in my book of great places for a body tune-up.

Recommended by Laura, another  3 day dose of the Yunnan Baiyao caps and an hour treatment that included rolling cupping to bring toxins to the surface – glass jars, oil and a  lit candle -pretty cool!  on my back and energy balance for my entire body. I was ready again to get on the plane for ATL the next day.

In the Atlanta metro area:  Another good friend of mine is the most awesome chiropractor and body worker:

Dr. Tom Born 404 -408-0143, 1776 Peachtree Street in Mid-town ATL treated me twice for correcting my crooked hips and spine while also giving me some reflexology to improve circulation through my body, therefore reducing stress. Tom has been treating me on and off since 1984 when I was pregnant with my son!  He is incredible and will work with you on the treatments as his work includes reflexology, stretching, some massage along with the adjustment.  I felt so much better and was able to avoid any medications, even aspirin or Tylenol. My body is healing well and I will get a few more acupuncture tune-ups just to be sure.

Yes, I have some very good friends who are skilled and knowledgeable practitioners who really came to my rescue. I am truly blessed to be walking around and in good health. The good Lord isn’t done with me yet and I encourage all of you to take the time to get regular bodywork of some sort. Your body is resilient and will bounce back more quickly when the body’s fuse box is connected. Preventative medicine is still better than surgery,  heavy medications and compromised mental ability and fatigue.

Just a few hours in car can tighten your neck and irritate your lower back.  Add in traffic, delays and air travel ,computer or desk work and the stress is magnified. You may not even notice it for a while. I just purchased an Inversion table to help with stretch my back and encourage circulation between visits to my practitioners and to avoid headstands.

My friends call this the “bat table” – it really works!

So take care of yourself now.  Especially in these challenging times where you do not want to land in hospital unless it is a true emergency.  For everyday maintenance and preservation, get your winter tune -up now and feel better.

Psalm 91 excerpt: If you make the most high your dwelling-even the Lord , who is my refuge , then no harm will befall you , no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways they will lift you up in their hands so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.  You will tread upon the lion and the cobra:you will trample the great Lion and the serpent.

In Continued Health,

Sally Byrd

Ok , any excuse to go diving, spend some time with good friends, get some work done and stay warm during the winter months and I’m in ….. Little did  I know about the massive arctic cold blast that hit the entire southeast  coast  including FL and the Bahamas this holiday. Heck, my wetsuit was the warmest piece of clothing that I packed! However, the average Bahama day at 53 degrees was still better than 33 in St Augustine .

My friend Karen Clarke  is the owner of  The Henry Thayer Company www.thayers.com since 1999 and spends time between her home office in Ct and her other office in Freeport, on the island of Grand Bahama. Her son John Gehr, the VP of sales and marketing has moved to the Island full time with his family.  As avid outdoor enthusiasts, they love the  winters better in Freeport than frigid CT.  What a great life that they have all the comforts of a US business set up here. Thayers was started in 1847 and is world renowned for it Slippery Elm throat lozenges, dry mouth spray and pure witch hazel products that consumers from rock & roll groups to natural food enthusiasts love.  I met some industry friends over there – now that takes commitment …. Howard Kaminski, Alan Purcell, Sue Bennett, and myself felt the warm weather pulling us south.

Diving, is a key water sport  here and both Karen & John dive. The Atlantic ocean is 75-77 degrees this time of year but the air temp in the low 50’s combined with high winds made it very cold weather diving. I had to wear a skin under a 5 mill wetsuit. Surface intervals were cold and I was way out of my preferred warm water diving zone.

The diving however, was top notch – there were reef and nurse sharks on most dives with pristine coral formations and a 65-75 foot visibility. We dove with Unexso (The  Underwater Explorers Society, originally started by Jacque Cousteau in 1965), based out of Port Lucaya a large well organized dive organization with a terrific staff  www.unexso.com. You can dive or snorkel with them or even participate as a ” bubble watcher” to get a feel for the boat Shark feeding dives, dolphin dives in the ocean without a pen, night  and cave dives are also options. Christine the head dive master and big boss, is a world renowned diver who tackles the cave diving expeditions while keeping the operation running  smoothly.  The limestone  rock produced many caverns,  similar to the Cenotes in Mexico … and little “Blue holes “  are common on many sites.  My favorite dive was Shark Junction, a 55-65 foot sandy bottom with independent  mushroom topped coral heads teeming with fish, rays, garden and moray eels  and of course reef sharks – at least 6 -8 on each dive.

Many of the younger dive masters  were interested in nutrition – they have a strenuous career choice – the diving is fun but putting  up with Tourists 24/7 and keeping their immune systems strong can be challenging. I did lose an Endangered species organic chocolate bar and some Betty Lou’s Almond butter and Spirulina bars to the hungry dive masters…..I may come back to teach a nutrition class when the weather is much warmer.

Free port’s beauty is really below the water surface  and with it people. The Island is 80 miles long and 16 miles wide.  The community is tight and friendly and you feel welcome here.  The online magazine The Bahamas Weekly co-owned by Robbin Whacell, another fabulous friend of Karen’s www.bahamasweekly.com. Robbin captured us all at the artistic and creative cuisine inspired Sabor restaurant  New Year’s Eve where we enjoyed a splendid dinner, fireworks and dancing under the stars. It was our only warm evening.  There is always something fun happening  in Freeport and Karen seems to know everyone.

Although this Island offers a flat terrain with an abundance of saw palmettos, pines and scrub trees … gardens are easy to grow.  The Garden at of the Groves is a beautiful tropical & lush 12 acre garden  with a fabulous cafe with healthy offerings…….The 40 acre Lucayan National Park, 40 acres is also a must see at ($3.00 per person or free with a national park pass for $50.00 per year).  You see some of the caves topside -like Ben’s cave and meander across the street and catch the local flora and fauna ending up on a deserted long beautiful beach where some of the pirates of the Caribbean was filmed.

When the weather returns to normal tropical weather you can kayak or tale eco-tours with Grand Bahama Nature Tours www.gnbtours.com or take a horseback ride along the beach with Trikk pony Adventures-242-727-0131 leo@trikkponyadventures.com We had an apartment  at the Bell Channel Marina and cooked in some nights. There is an Italian grocery store and a fabulous market called Thompson’s to buy your natural mainstays, produce and fish & meats . Our favorite restaurant was Cappucino’s owned by a talented & hard working Italian – Danny & Tony who also owns a beachfront casual restaurant called  that serves cuisine from curried chicken salad to spicy conch chowder. They cater to a large Italian market of visitors. We all agreed that  the food was better than most in NYC … Other favorites were a casual Greek place – Zorba’s and Agave, with exceptional homemade and unique offerings. Conch chowder is the island favorite and everyone has their own recipe … I am not a fan of conch but the hot soup & hot chocolate warmed me up after the cold dives.

The most inspirational person that I met was Karen’s mom – Helen who will be 91 years old on the 25th and can run circles around most of us. She is of Russian & Chinese heritage and has always taken care of herself, eaten natural foods, limited fried foods and refined sugars, no sodas or junk foods and takes a multi-vitamin. She drinks a little red wine, reads daily and loves to walk, knit, swim, garden and keep her mind active by participating in various woman’s groups. She is planning on purchasing a new 4-wheel drive for her birthday!  How many people can say that!  She is one of my new role models. Truly delightful and a pleasure to be around. Karen has inherited some awesome genes!

One thing I learned on this trip was to appreciate everything that we have.  Starting off this New year on a day to day basis and thanking God for all of the little blessings that come our way daily. Yes I wanted to swim & kayak and not work which I ended up doing almost every afternoon …but my mind still cleared and I did get some rest around the diving and our apartment did have heat!

Good friends are rare.  Our natural products industry has so many  people who have grown up with this business and we are bound for life as we continue to strengthen old relationships and build new ones. We are all different – so what ?  We can all learn from one another and give thanks daily.

One of little gems that we discovered on the way to airport was a bakery named: “Praise the Lord”  The women inside is absolutely precious and was cooking an island stew that made my mouth water! ( note: you can’t take any food out of the Bahamas since you clear customs in Free port not in the US) … a few friendly local Bahamians were enjoying her hot meals …the bakery was only a small part of the shop.

These locals truly enjoy life daily. I was overwhelmed by the friendliness of the native people to us. They live simple, happy and fulfilling lives.  May we all take lessons from them. I am truly thankful for experiencing this culture and week with my friends.

Happy New Year to all of our readers and may the Joy of the Lord give you strength, happiness and prosperity this coming year.

In Continued health,

Sally Byrd

Now during the hectic holiday season, people are stretched for time, money and personal space to relax.  Usually  nutrition & exercise fly out the window until New Years resolutions in January.  Burgers with healthy ingredients can appeal to all of your needs.  In particular, my Rosemary Buffalo Burgers help to improve circulation & metabolism while offering  immune system support. These are not your greasy, fatty chemical-laden ,what’s in here anyway burgers but  solid nutrition that fuels your body.

Since I am an  Blood Type O, secretor  &  Hunter Genotype,  Buffalo or beef can actually help my metabolism work more efficiently and provide the nutrition my cells need, while keeping my weight down.  Not all red meat is bad for you.

Other blood types likes A’s can eat tofu,  chicken, turkey  or black bean burgers cooked the same way while B ’s  do great  with Buffalo , Beef  Turkey or lamb , AB’s with  sprouted soy ,turkey or salmon burgers. Whatever protein, you choose  this is an easy holiday meal on the run that will fuel your body well and help you to manage stress levels. Don’t skip meals.

The quality of the meat is essential for a healthy burger.   Buffalo that are free of anti-biotics and hormones, and are grass fed top the list. Thanks to Ted Turner’s restaurants – TED’s … a chain that I can actually eat in ….  Bison or Buffalo is becoming more common.

Rosemary Buffalo Burgers:

1 lb high quality ground buffalo/bison

1 small red onion chopped fine, set aside (option – ground turkey)

1 long sprig of fresh rosemary, snip off the tips with kitchen shears and discard the thick stem, set aside

3 tablespoons of grated Locatelli Italian Sheep’s cheese, set aside

8 oz cremini/baby bella mushrooms, sliced

6 oz  fresh salsa

2 oz guacamole

dash of cayenne powder or sliced jalapenos

sea salt , to taste

Rosemary Buffalo Burger

Mix the Buffalo or turkey with chopped rosemary, red onion and the cheese together. Cook in little ghee or olive oil on a low heat.  Flip once until done.  Add the sliced mushrooms around the burgers and cook through.  Add them on top of the burgers with a dollop of guacamole and a dash of cayenne or sliced jalapenos. Add the fresh salsa around the plate.  The option shown here includes fresh asparagus and cherry tomatoes . Serve without additional carbs for a healthy weight maintenence meal or  with warmed sprouted grain tortillas ( only 5 carbs )  cut into quarters. 

Reminder : The additional holiday sugar-rich foods will take a toll for the worst on your health . Keep healthy snack foods around the house and limit baked goods and suagr laden foods.  Keep them for treats. When you do indulge, be sure to use digestive enzymes and glucose control products like Dr. Venessa’s Sugar Balance to bring the insulin back down in about 40 minutes after a meal .

 With powerful naturals herbals and foods like Gymnema sylvestre, cinnamon, nopal cactus and banaba leaf to regulate glucose and cedar berries, minerals and vitamins to help strengthen the kidneys, balanced with taurine and vanadium  for a healthy mood ,  this product really works. Just take 2-4 vegetarian tablets after meals containing carbohydrates and/or refined sugars including alcohol ,  for proper insulin & glucose balance. 

Sugar Balance

Sugar consumtion & over-indulgence can stimulate rapid aging ( yes- more wrinkles!) so give yourself some additional  protection.I use this product after a dessert treat , a glass of wine or even after a eating brown rice or spelt pasta, potatoes or bean dishes.  Sugar  excess ( even a soda !) stuns the immune system for hours allowing your body to be defenseless.

Enjoy a happy , healthy holiday season and eat to live,  instead of living to eat . If you need to indulge just take the propper steps to re-balance your body as soon as you can . We all need a treat but don’t make it a daily occurence.

Remember a lower carb organic 70% dark chocolate square can be consumed daily as a nutritional food – so this doesn’t count  against you . Enjoy one of your favorite brands like Theo, Dagoba or Bissinger’s  after a burger meal!  

Your immune system will thank you!

In continued health,

Sally Byrd

Fitz & Sally

Jim ‘chooses’ to be happy and be a bright light in other peoples lives.  He gives daily thanks to God and appreciates that at his age he is experiencing  the best time of his life.

His busy life -yes he is still very  productive; as he works  part time  in the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration service business.   Every day Jim gets on his bicycle for 6 miles in the early am and 8 or 9 miles in the late afternoon.

Wow!  He does more exercise than most people I know, including me !  His biking attire for  S Fl is long sleeve shirts year round so he works up a hard sweat. You can recognize him as he bikes his daily route in a bright orange vest and reflectors for safety purposes.

Jim and I met earlier this year at Tunies  , a  natural food superstore in Coral Springs , FL owned by Al Foreman, that offers a vast selection of supplements, personal care and grocery items with discounted  prices that everyone can afford. Check them out at: www.tunies.com …or give them a call: 954-510-0410 -they ship worldwide…..

Jim was undergoing some treatments with anti-biotics, at that time for skin cancer (squamous) and was limiting new supplements until the treatment stopped. However, when  he heard  about  Dr. Venessa’s Formulas Anti-Aging3 Collagen he was intrigued and wanted to try it.

It has been almost 4 months now and Jim says he has finally  found the Fountain of Youth in a bottle … at 1 scoop daily early in the am,  he has managed to regain glowing, firmer radiant skin, has reduced his puffy eye look , his eyes are clear,  fine lines and wrinkles are reduced , he has experienced a significant reduction in his belly fat, has faded the dark bruises and liver spots on his hands,  while  regaining some natural color in his beard and already has noticed new hair growth and his nails are a healthy pink , no spots with great circulation .  His weight when he started this program was 235 . Jim has safely lost 34 lbs  and is now weighs in at 201 !

Jim says people tell him he is getting ” skinny and younger ” and they can’t believe how he has changed.  From his hair stylist to his medical doctor and dermatologist , everybody is intrigued.  Just what are his secrets?

Jim’s Daily Super Supplement  Program (give or take a few things…)

Early AM: Anti-Aging3 Collagen, 1 scoop in a large glass of water

AM: Dr Venessa’s Thyroid Balance , Raw Thyroid-about 30 min later :  HCL w/pepsin, 2 tablespoons Carlson Fish Oil, PS (phosphatidyl serine) 100mg, DHEA 50mg, Vit D3 10,000IU

During the day: Solgar Chlorella, Opti-Zinc 60mg, Selenium 200 mcg, Kelp w/Folic Acid 600mg, Solaray 25,000 IU Beta Carotene,  Folic Acid 5mg, Tunies Potassium Magnesium & Taurine, B12 5000 mcg, 1000 mg of both  MSM & Glucosamine HCL,  P5P-enteric coated B-6 & B-2, 1,000mg Vitamin C, 500 mg Quercitin, IP6

PM: Carlson Moisture Eye Formula,  Solaray 160mg Saw Palmetto berries, 100 mg Ubiquinol, 2,000 Pantothenic Acid, Inositol

For an occasional ache or pain from too much riding …. Jim may add some Yucca or White Willow bark and SilverBiotics Silver for his Immune Health . Gosh, He takes almost as much as me!

Jim follows a vegetarian diet which seems to work for him and he eats rather well.  His protein comes from eggs and multitude of fresh, organic and locally grown foods.  He eats in season and loves FL avocados!  After his am exercise , he makes a fruit slushy from  fresh frozen berries, watermelon,  pineapple, cranberries, Chia seeds and cinnamon. His sugar has fallen in the last few months to a 91-96 range and his PSA remains below .6 , which is good for his age.

Due to his heavy strenuous daily routine , I asked Jim to increase his protein a bit and add 2,000 mg L-Carnitine  daily (for healthy cell and metabolic maintenance since he does not consume red meat and try to start eating some fish a couple of times per week as he is an O Blood Type .

Jim’s exercise regimen and upbeat attitude really puts him in a class of his own. The people who know him really think he is their neighborhood “Mr. Wonderful”. One person can make a difference , just ask Jim or any of his neighbors….

Canine Concerns :

Anti-Aging3 is now going to the dogs … really!  When my sister Suzanne called me with this story I had to laugh. If people don’t want to help themselves with better health supplement protocols they will bend over to accommodate their pets , no matter what the cost …….

Her dog Vino (yes, she’s Italian) is an 11 year old female Lab who literally was on her last legs. She had been limping for over a year as her back leg was hurting with severe inflammation, her energy was down and she was in pain and could not even go up and down the stairs by herself anymore. She was 1 week away from getting put down by the local vet.

VINO

So , since Collagen helped her so much this past year ,as due to several people’s joint testimonials,  Vino started getting 1/2 scoop  (a 75-80 lb dog) of the mixed berry collagen with apple juice in her bowl first thing in the morning.  No food until 30 min later.  She loved it from day 1 and lapped it up like a dessert.

After 30 days, Vino was a new dog. Her energy bounced back, she wanted to run, walk around the neighborhood , like the old days .  Suzanne said , “I have a new dog !” as Vino is now running up and down steps  …..even the neighbors  commented on Vino’s energy and several of them have now started to take the Anti-Aging3 to help them with joint pain and energy.They wanted to start using whatever that dog was taking ….. Maybe we should start using pets to advertise ?After 30 days Vino is now down to a maintenance dose of a tablespoon a day . For dogs with sensitive systems, please start them off slowly with only 1 teaspoon , as some of them may react to high dose of vitamin C .

My sister Suzanne ,  at 47 years old was beginning  to experience the signs of Peri-menopause -she slimmed down from a size 12 to a size 4 in less than a year taking 2 scoops daily and adding Dr Venessa’s  Liverclean and Sugar Balance to her program. She also reduced her coffee consumption and limited wheat flour products as she is also an O Blood Type.  Suzanne  experienced a reduction in sweet & caffeine cravings , noticed a more balanced hormonal levels and feels better overall.

She can’t live without it now.Below is a current photo of her and her daughter, Briella.

.l

At the office , we receive testimonies weekly and I would love to  learn of your  success stories.

We will continue to keep you posted. Please send in your story and maybe you will get published……………..

In Continued health,

Sally Byrd

Last month you all heard my personal story about my life changes with Dr. D’Adamo’s Blood Type and Geno Type lifestyle programs.  To everyone who wants to make a change but doesn’t think they can do it here is Allison’s story.  She will motivate you.  Remember that we are all different and there may be changes and some alterations to customize your personal plan.

Allison,  a 32 year old New Yorker, was tired of being overweight, bloated,  feeling and looking tired with lower back pain and achy joints.  Her frustrations carried over into her personal life as anger, aggressiveness and a low self esteem.  I had known her about 5 years before she came to work with me at Dr Venessa’s Formulas (but her NY retail stores-  knew her for 7 years as a natural products sales rep) and she has observed my dietary patterns and energetic happy spirit for years.

Allison was a determined student; willing to stick with a common sense, simple plan that could be followed during a hectic work and travel schedule.  She wanted success.  All she needed was a little coaching and a  plan to follow.

March 2008: Month #1 – Starting out is always tough.  I started her on Dr. D’Adamo’s  AB blood type program from the EAT RIGHT 4 Your Type -Encyclopedia and she was forced to give up her 2 favorite foods – shrimp and blue cheese.  We had to start eating correctly and getting her off the foods that were fighting her digestive system ,weakening her immune system and emphasize foods that would strengthen her immune system and slowly detoxify her body of stored poisons and excess waste matter. To ease the dietary adjustment ,  and focus on eating  the correct foods - I also supplied  her with a handy laminated wallet card for her blood type  (Dr. D’Adamo sells online www.dadamo.com) so she didn’t have to memorize everything overnight.

AB best proteins that she liked:  turkey, wild salmon, eggs, lamb, cod, grouper, sardines, Tongol Tuna.

For AB vegetarians the best beans are lentils, pinto beans, organic soybeans, navy beans, tofu and tempeh.

The simple carbohydrates and sugars were reduced and the fiber-rich vegetables increased.

Beverages included cutting out the coffee and increasing water consumption (high alkaline H2O) and adding green tea.  Since Allison is on the go all the time – the ready to drink Sencha Shots or the new product Oi Ocha dark (worth 10-15 cans of green tea in one 16.9 oz bottle!) from Itoen act as metabolism stimulators (1 can equals the EGCG in 5 cups of green tea) and can help the body adjust and rekindle lost energy and stamina .   No alcohol allowed during this time of cleansing.

Exercise: Allison started working out at her fitness center with a personal trainer 2x’s per week.

Month#2:  Supplement time.  After a month of food and exercise regulation it was time to start on the supplements.

Here goes:

Dr. Venessa’s Anti-Aging3 Collagen: 1 scoop in the early am before exercise, on an empty stomach

Dr. Venessa’s Liverclean: 6 tabs after her morning workout, with breakfast

Jarrow or Royal Brittany Evening Primrose Oil: w/meals -1 1300 mg  softgel

Jarrow MSM (Opti patent): – 3 caps -3,000 mg daily anytime

New Chapter Zyflamend: -2 softgels w/ meals

New Chapter Bone Strength: - 1 tab daily w/ MSM

Jarrow L-Glutamine: - 2 -1,000 mg tabs  w/ Liverclean

After 3 months on this plan Allison’s dark circles started to fade and her skin tone improved.  Her weight started to shift.  Allison also received weekly chiropractic treatments to keep her central nervous system working at its peak.

Occasional massages and acupunture treatments also helped during stressful times. Her immune fighters of  Silver, Wild Oregano and Spirulina tabs were added in as needed.

Before

After 8 months we finally had to go shopping.  Her clothes were so baggy and all of her accounts could not believe she was the same person they had known for 7 years. She was happy. Weight loss was about 40 lbs.

March 2009:  After 1 year she was up to 52lbs of weight loss and feeling and looking terrific at a size 16. Her mood swings had mellowed and she also managed to find time for spiritual renewal ” Praise God” and continued her exercise regime. I started her on a few extra supplements. Allison was now 33 years old with glowing skin and reduced joint pain but wanted to lose more weight.

We added: Dr Venessa’s Thyroid Balance: -6 caps per day with the Liverclean & L-Glutamine in the am( reduced back to 4 caps after 4 months)

For 4 months we increased the Liverclean to 12 daily (split dose), increased the Anti-Aging3 Collagen to 2 scoops daily and added an Immune Builder with Pro Biotics (Dr. Venessa’s VIP-20X and also the North American Spice Wild Oregano and SilverBiotics as needed)  and really cut down the amount of carbohydrates she was consuming. IE : she went from eating Ezekiel bread 6-7x’s a week to 3 x’s a week.  Exercise now included bi-weekly Pilates and Cardio Training.

AUGUST 2009 :

RESULTS after 16 months:  a 60 lb weight loss that was safe and has stayed off.  Her skin is radiant and her circles are hardly visible.   Her snoring has been reduced by 80%.   Her cellulite has started to fade in her upper legs, her joints have quit hurting and her back is stronger.

Her attitude is joyful and energetic and she now looks 10 years younger.  In the last 4 months she has lost an additional 9 inches as follows: 2 inches off her waist, 2″ thighs, 2″ hips and 2 1/2 inches from her chest and 1/2 inch off her arms.  Allison is still following her program and is inspiring everyone around her…. and no diet pills or fad diet disguises – anywhere.   This is the real deal!

For those of you who have given up ….. take a new look at what are you really eating?  Start to improve yourself by taking a healthier option.

Step 1: First find out what your blood type is … whatever eating program you may decide on do it by your blood type and your will experience better results.  So get started this fall and avoid the winter weight gain dilemma.

Step 2: Find some type of movement that you like – the fitness center or structured classes may not work for everyone. I do not like gyms except for the light weights- treadmills bore me so I may run up and down stairs, take long walks or roller blade to get cardio going. Of course my Infared sauna helps to also do this and to detox at the same time.

Step 3: Find someone who inspires you . Read scriptures and work to keep a joyful attitude . Be grateful for all improvements -no matter how small.This is a new lifestyle not just a diet.

So get started now and avoid the  upcoming holiday torture by being prepared .  Know your food options and where you can bend the rules or be strict.

Allison is enjoying some red wine these days while  her weight loss and fitness program continues to improve. I think we have a shopping date in mid October !

In Continued Health,

Sally Byrd

The Blood Type Diet ?  What’s that?

Eating by your blood type often raises many eyebrows in the media, ignites criticism and disbelief throughout the medical community and confusion among consumers.  I have been eating and living by blood type principles set into place by both Dr.James D’Adamo and his son Dr. Peter D’Adamo for about 13 years.

Yes, many consider me to be a blood type groupie and due to the positive results that I have experienced along with my nutritional background, I  have become certified as a Master of the School of Human Individuality-MIFHI, spearheaded by Peter D’Adamo and the SW College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, AZ to help spread his message of living and aging well.

In this day of media generated Health Care Chaos (my previous blog), swine flu vaccine scare tactics and fear, changing a few foods and lifestyle adjustments to work with your daily routine is cost effective, safe and with a little planning easy to do for most people.

Dr. D’Adamo’s  latest research into Epi-Genetics is the next step for us to wanting  to maximize our aging process but starting with Blood Type eating plans is the easiest way to get started  … if the blood type program does not work for you, you may want to investigate  what I call Blood Type +( as blood type is just one of thousands of genes)  the  Geno-type program which includes Blood typing but adds in genetics, body types & measurements ,  finger print patterns and much more designed to help us fight pre-mature aging and disease. Check out his comprehensive website at www.dadamo.com which includes food charts, science validation, testimonials and blogs covering numerous subjects.

Dr. D'Adamo and Sally

Because we are all different, not every dietary plan, latest super food miracle claim or  dietary cure-all will work on everyone.  Most food plans and diets should be customized to meet an individuals needs.  Just because it works for your friend, co-worker or neighbor, does not mean it will work for you.  I often tell people that whatever diet or lifestyle plan you choose, do it by your blood type to get the best results.

Several months before he died, Dr. Atkins asked me why doesn’t everyone lose weight on his diet program? I told him  the A’s and AB’s had trouble digesting all the meats and cheeses in his plan  and the foods needed to be altered to support their blood type.  He was intrigued and was actually researching the blood type approach when his life abruptly ended.  I wish that more medical doctors would at least investigate and try for themselves these principles instead of rebuking them with little knowledge of the vastness of the years of research and patient trials and testimonials.

Think of  the  Blood Type program as your lower cost health care plan – Eating by Your Blood type  can offer offer  you  ammunition for aging well by boosting your immune system, balancing  stress levels, better  mental clarity,  digestive system support, improved  metabolism, better  sleeping patterns and balanced energy levels  ;therefore equipping you both  mentally and physically able to tackle life’s challenges. It is the foundation of better health and another puzzle piece to customize a life-long wellness program for you, as an individual.

There are 4 basic blood types:

Currently the O’s are 45% of the population, A’s are 40%, B’s are 9-10% and AB’s about 5-6%  and there are hundred of sub blood types like your Secretor status, Rh negative or positive.

Which one are you ? If you don’t know, the best way to find out is to donate blood and it won’t cost you a dime.

Blood Type Basics:

I. One factor in the blood type research , is the  determination of the presence or lack of anti-gens .  Antigens can be environmental or from within your body.  They are just one type of  chemical marker for blood typing foods. When your immune system is working well, it ’s job is protect you from foreign bacteria, virus’, parasites, infections etc. When a foreign substance enters the body the immune system your B-lymphocytes and T -lymphocytes cells,  go to work and check for your blood type anti-gens.  If it finds a foreign anti-gen (a “poison” to them) then it will manufacture anti-bodies against this food, bacteria, infection etc. Cell clumping known as  “agglutination” occurs.  Cells start to stick together or as D’Adamo says – “like handcuffed a bunch of criminals” … it is easier to manage them than having them roam your body freely. This process taxes the bodies’ energy reserves and make it more difficult to digest your food.  The agglutination is like a gun shooting glue into your bloodstream and having it attach to Velcro like substances and sticking.  This impairs circulation, nutrient absorption, digestion, energy and slows down most of your bodies pathways. Continued use of these negative food triggers will dull and irritate your immune system and making way for disease to incubate.  This method is very easy to distinguish under a microscope.   Blood type anti-bodies are produced automatically and do not need a vaccination or infection to start the process.   Amazing!

II. Secretor’s a sub blood type  marker, (a simple spit test) makes up about 85 % of the population and can secrete their blood type anti-gens into their body fluids along with their blood.  Non-Secretors can only do this in their blood and are usually susceptible to a weaker immune system. The food choices vary slightly.

When the body functions better  the ability to handle stress for both the sympathetic (flight or fight) and parasympathetic system (nervous system calming) are able to function equally well and work according to God’s divine plan.   Most people today live in chronic stress that ignites the sympathetic system driving up cortisol and stressing out the adrenals, thyroid, and pituitary glands.  The blood type lifestyle helps to balance this process.

III. Then there are the food lectins. This is what the medical profession can’t seem to get their hands around and thinks the blood type is only about lectin content .There is much more to it but lectins do fit into the puzzle ……

Lectins  are proteins that can attach to the carbohydrates on your cells and are blood type specific. Some lectins are good for you while others create digestive disturbances  and can release Histimine leading to many food allergies.  Some lectins are increased in intensity by cooking like wheat germ,  while others are destroyed by heat .

Both wheat and peanut lectins for O types cause gut problems as they bind to intestinal walls.   Avocado lectins for A blood types  actually prevent cavities since bacteria is prevented from binding to tooth plaque. Dr D’Adamo has already done the painstaking laboratory cell analysis for you to and has charts and foods lists available on www.dadamo.com. Check it out.

I am an O blood, Secretor  and a Hunter Genotype.  Although I ate meats growing up,  my adopted vegetarian (except for fish) and higher carbohydrate diet in my mid-20’s started to slow me down by my mid 30’s.  Even though I had read James D’Adamo book – One’s Man’s Food is another Man’s Poison, I was naive and stubborn and could  not see that organic wheat products, dairy products from cows and white potatoes could be causing me to bloat, causing weight gain, hormonal imbalances and foggy brain at times.  Hey, I ate organic and took all of my supplements!

So when Peter’s book arrived in 1996, Eat Right For Your Blood Type, Then Live Right, Then Cook Right .… (The Eat Right for your Blood Type, Encyclopedia and his book on Aging-Fight it with your Blood Type is my favorite) I decided to try his program and felt better within a couple of weeks. I have been following the diet ever since and it is my lifestyle now.

There are a few modifications due to my genetic heritage like avocados, capers, mushrooms, red wine and sheep’s milk cheeses that actually agree with me. Of course these foods are part of my Italian heritage and concur with the newest research for Geno-type.   The wheat products (doesn’t matter if its organic)  whole wheat products do not work for me and are my #1 poison.  I have been strict with avoiding them , even eating on the road  ( about 200 days a year ) and now consume brown rice pasta or  sprouted grain breads.

The rest of the program I am very strict with and will choose carefully when I will cheat ( holiday meal , vacation or special treat ) and will add in Dr D’Adamo’s Deflect supplement when I do .   Although my travel and work schedule is hectic, I am aging well for a 51 year old and have a  balanced weight and lots of energy .  I am not bloated any more from excess wheat consumption which provides me with terrific health. By the way ,  I have breezed through menopause.Very grateful for that .

Getting Started:

1. Find out your blood type and secretor status. You will need to know this anyway as soon as you turn 50 and want an AARP membership. In many countries, blood type is important for personality traits  – even for dating! Don’t let your practitioner put you down for wanting to know yours. It is a part of your aging well program.

2.  Check to see if foods you are eating daily are on your avoid list. If they are on this list , eliminate them as quickly as you can. This process may take a while. Don’t give up. Save them for treats or holidays only .Even if you can eliminate them for the work week andallow yourself a treat on the weekends. Eventually oyu will be able to feel the difference the avoid vs the beneficials make for you.

3. Start to eat as many beneficialand  foods as possible. These foods will be part of your optimal immune function. Learn to manipulate menu’s when eating out.  I do this frequently and most restaurants will work with you.  It becomes a habit after a while that this is how you will be eating for the rest of your life. You can still cheat occasionally after you achieve some balance.use neutral foods to fill in your dieary needs.

4.  Add in Blood Type friendly supplements and nutrients. Several immune disorders are blood type dominant and knowing this information, you can ward off many illnesses  or weaken their severity.

5.  Approach this plan with a good attitude. I have taken many “arrows” and criticisms over the years but I am the one that is usually healthier and more fit than those in condemnation.  Listen to your body and see how you feel about an hour after eating certain foods . Keep smiling !

6. Exercise is very important and work with your suggested blood type program . Also learn the stress balancing techniques that work per blood type to help create a balanced lifestyle.  From my own experience, I  know as an O, I will drive people nuts with my high energy level if I don’t get in brisk walk or some other form of exercise daily …..

7. If you get stuck or frustrated, send me note or check out the books or the website for more information. www.dadamo.com  or www.drvenessa.com

We will be continuing more in this area as these programs are becoming a benchmark for a better way of living and aging well. Dr D’Adamo is in continued research mode-the man never sleeps , he  is absolutely brilliant and loves numbers . He writes his own software and knows more about food interactions in the body than anyone I know . We the public , owe so much to both he and his dad for taking the research and bringing it to the marketplace in a simple fashion in a cost effective way to understand our bodies better.Also there is is wife Martha ( O secretor , Hunter ) who supports him 150% …

There is a such a vast amount of research here and I want to give you the baby steps to get started. Start supporting your own Immune Health now and start your new program today -Do it Right by Your Blood Type……Do it at your own pace but just do it ….start now.

In Continued Health,

Sally Byrd