February 22, 2012

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Perfect Prostate Health

February 1, 2012 By Leave a Comment

If you don’t know what your prostate is or what it does, you are certainly not alone: most men don’t. But, you really should. More than 30 million men suffer from prostate conditions that negatively affect their quality of life.

Awareness of prostate health has come a long way since the days when comedians would confuse “prostate” with “prostrate.” Yet, many men still aren’t sure what the prostate is, what its functions are or how to have good prostate health. The key to understanding prostate health is knowing the answers to these questions.

What Is the Prostate?

The prostate is a small gland, about the shape and size of a walnut, in men that is part of the reproductive system. The prostate rests below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It surrounds part of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder. The prostate helps make semen, which carries sperm from the testicles when a man ejaculates.

Enlarged Prostate

As a man ages, the prostate can grow larger. When a man reaches the age of 40, the prostate gland might have increased from the size of a walnut to that of an apricot. By the time he reaches the age of 60, it might be the size of a lemon.

Because it surrounds part of the urethra, the enlarged prostate can squeeze the urethra. This causes problems in the passing of urine. Typically, these problems passing urine don’t occur in men until they are age 50 or older. They can, though, occur earlier.

An enlarged prostate is also called benign (noncancerous) prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH.

  • BPH is common and cannot be prevented.
  • Age and a family history of BPH are risk factors.
  • Eight out of every 10 men eventually develop an enlarged prostate.
  • About 90% of men over the age of 85 will have BPH.
  • Only about 30% of men will find their symptoms bothersome.

Symptoms of an enlarged prostate may include:

  • Trouble starting to urinate, or urinating freely
  • Having to urinate frequently, particularly at night
  • Feeling that the bladder is not empty after urinating
  • Feeling a sudden urge to urinate
  • Having to stop and start repeatedly while urinating
  • Having to strain to urinate

To maintain prostate health, it is important for men who have early symptoms of BPH to see their doctor. BPH is a progressive disease and can lead to serious, although rare, health problems, such as kidney or bladder damage.

  • Over 50% of men in their 60s and as many as 90% in their 70s or older have symptoms of an enlarged prostate (BPH).
  • Each year over 230,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer and about 30,000 will die of it.
  • Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) is an issue for men of all ages and affects 35% of men aged 50 and older.

Prostatitis

Prostatitis is an infection or inflammation of the prostate. It can affect men in their late teens to the elderly. Its symptoms include trouble passing urine, chills and fever and sexual problems. The condition is not contagious and cannot be transmitted sexually to a partner. Treatment usually includes antibiotics.

There are four types of prostatitis. The first is acute bacterial prostatitis, which is normally a short term infection and can lead to high temperatures, coldness and fever. It leads to frequent urination accompanied by pain, at all the times. However, early medications can cure this kind of prostatitis.

The next type of prostatitis is simply called “a chronic prostate.” It is a long term infection which normally leads to a lot of pain being experienced in the pelvic area, which is the area between the anus and the testicles. As time goes by, the pain increases and urinating becomes unbearable. A man who has recently had a catheter or other medical instrument inserted into his urethra is at higher risk of bacterial prostatitis. Some sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia, may cause chronic prostatitis. Early antibiotics and drinking a lot of water to fight the infection can cure this ailment.

Non-bacterial prostatitis is another prostate problem that normally affects many men. It usually causes severe pelvic pain, which produces difficulty urinating. Actually, specific medication have been not identified, although antibiotics could better still be used to cure the ailment. However, both hydrotherapy and hot water bath can be used to relieve the pains of non-bacterial prostatitis.

Finally, there is “Asymptomatic inflammatory Prostatitis,” whose real cause has not yet been established and has no symptoms. Despite the absence of the symptoms, some tests are carried out to determine whether the urine has some white blood cells in it. Antibiotics are still used to cure this kind of prostatitis, because the real cure for this disease is still being established.

Maintaining Prostate Health: Tests

Doctors use several tests to check on the condition of the prostate. They include:

1. DRE, or digital rectal exam. This is the standard prostate test. A doctor feels the prostate from the rectum, checking for things such as size, lumps, and firmness.

2. PSA or prostate-specific antigen test. This blood test measures the amount of a protein called PSA that is produced by prostate cells. Elevated levels may indicate cancer. They are not, however, proof that a man has prostate cancer. PSA levels may be elevated in the presence of non-cancerous prostate conditions, such as an enlarged prostate or prostatitis. Then, PSA levels may be low with prostate cancer. Screening for prostate cancer is controversial, as a result.

There are no warning signs or symptoms of early prostate cancer. Once a malignant tumor causes the prostate gland to swell significantly, or once cancer spreads beyond the prostate, the following symptoms may be present:

  • A frequent need to urinate, especially at night
  • Difficulty starting or stopping a stream of urine
  • A weak or interrupted urinary stream
  • Inability to urinate standing up
  • A painful or burning sensation during urination or ejaculation
  • Blood in urine or semen

The American Cancer Society says men should talk to their doctors about the benefits, risks, and limitations of prostate cancer screening before deciding whether to be tested. The group’s guidelines make it clear that prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood testing should not occur unless this discussion happens.

For most men at average risk, screening is started at age 50. However, some doctors recommend that men at higher risk of prostate cancer — African-American men or men with a family history of prostate cancer — start screening earlier.

The American Urological Association recommends a first-time test at age 40, with the schedule of follow-up testing to be determined on an individual basis.

If prostate cancer screening is done, it involves a blood test and possibly a prostate exam by your doctor. Whether or not you test is something you and your doctor must decide together.

3. Prostate biopsy. Men with high PSA results or other symptoms of cancer may have a tissue sample taken of their prostate to determine if cancer is present. Treatments include:

  • Watchful waiting. Patients who have an enlarged prostate, but who are not suffering symptoms or bothered by symptoms, may be advised by their doctor to merely get an annual checkup, which might include a variety of tests.
  • Making lifestyle changes. Changes could include limiting drinking at night and before bedtime, especially drinks containing alcohol or caffeine.
  • Drug Therapy. Two common treatments for BPH are alpha-blockers, which alleviate BPH symptoms, and 5 alpha-reductase inhibitors, which help shrink the prostate. Many men take them together. The FDA is revising labels on several BPH drugs, such as Proscar, Avodart, and Jalyn, to include a warning that the drugs may be linked to an increased risk of prostate cancer.
  • Surgery. This is generally used for men with severe symptoms who haven’t been helped by other treatment.

Prevention and Natural Alternative Treatments

For men who suffer from prostate enlargement, saw palmetto is the place to start. Saw palmetto has a long history of diminishing enlargement and inflammation of the prostate, as well as inhibiting the hormones, which causes prostate enlargement.

Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto is a shrub which grows in Georgia and Florida along the ocean. Saw palmetto causes no side effects at the recommended dosage. However, since there is currently no standard dose for saw palmetto, researchers often use either 160 mg twice daily or 320 mg once daily based upon clinical studies conducted on the safety and effectiveness of the supplement for enlarged prostate treatment. Another herb called “Pygeum africanum,” comes from an African tree and has also been shown in research to reduce enlargement of the prostate, as well as inflammation.

See this month’s saw palmetto product recommendation to make the best choice in supplements.  View our recommended saw palmetto products on this page. 

Zinc for a Healthy Prostate

Zinc is considered one of the most essential trace elements and is believed to play a critical role in cell growth and differentiation, in regulating normal cell death, as well as in building the immune response. Scientists tell us that there exist more biological roles for zinc than for all the other trace elements put together.

Zinc is both helpful with enlarged prostates and with inflamed prostates. Studies (1) have shown that zinc deficiency results in prostate enlargement. Infection and other stress results in lower blood serum zinc levels, in general, and lower prostate levels, in particular. In prostatitis – infection of the prostate – zinc levels are only 1/10 of those in a normal prostate (2).

A large percentage of men do not get even the low U.S. RDA of 15 milligrams of zinc per day from their diet, which may explain a lot.

A daily zinc supplement totaling 50 to 100 milligrams is frequently recommended to help shrink an enlarged prostate. As with any supplement, however, zinc should be taken in moderation and the intake of supplements should complement what we are getting from natural healing foods in our diet.

Some of the foods with the highest zinc contents are seafood. In fact, the National Institute of Health reports that oysters have more zinc than any other food.

You can get zinc from other kinds of seafood, too. Lobster, for example, has 2.5 mg in a 3 oz. serving. Sole and flounder contain 0.5 mg per 3 oz. serving, and Alaskan King Crab will net you around 6.5 mg per 3 oz. serving. Regular seafood eaters are likely getting all the zinc they need.

According to the National Institute of Health, most people get their zinc from meat. Poultry and beef are the most common sources of zinc in our diets, but other meats like lamb and pork also contain good amounts.

Vegetarian sources of zinc include legumes and dairy. For example, a serving of nuts, like cashews or almonds, contains between 1 mg and 2 mg of zinc. Beans, depending on the variety and how they are processed, contain 1 mg to 3 mg of zinc. Vegetarians who eat dairy can get 1 mg of zinc from a cup of 2-percent milk, a cup of yogurt or 3 oz. serving of cheese.

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The right muscles for Kegel exercises in a man can also be found by trying to stop the flow or urine mid-stream and not use the buttocks or abdomen. For some men, it is the same feeling as trying to stop from passing gas.  Try Kegel exercises on the floor first.

Exercises for a Healthy Prostate

Kegel exercises are useful in improving blood circulation to these tissues. Kegel exercises are performed by tightening all the muscles around the scrotum and anus. Repeat this tightening of the muscles 10 times. Try doing this “invisible” exercise 4-5 times daily, while driving, reading, etc.

Foods for a Healthy Prostate

No prescription for prostate health would be complete without some general dietary recommendations. This includes things to eat and things to avoid.

Grapes, especially red grapes, are highly recommended for maintaining a healthy prostate, as are dark, leafy-green vegetables. Other prostate-friendly vegetables include cauliflower and cabbage.

Tomatoes are fantastic prostate cancer preventatives. They contain lycopene, which combats the growth of prostate cancer. We now know that lycopene is the most powerful carotene discovered, with 10 times more antioxidant power than beta-carotene. Your tomato intake can come from fresh tomatoes–but also from tomato paste, pizza sauce and even ketchup.

It would appear that making tomatoes part of your diet is a good idea if you are concerned about the health of your prostate. Harvard study (3) of 47,000 men in 2003 found that men who ate 10 servings per week of tomatoes cut their risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer by 50%.

What Not to Eat

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent prostate enlargement as it’s a part of aging, there are few things that could help delay or prevent the problem and improve symptoms.

Avoid foods high in calcium.

Foods high in calcium include eggnog, milk (low-fat, skim, whole), cheese, yogurt, salmon, almonds, peas, broccoli, baked beans, white beans, turnip greens, spinach, collard greens, sardines and rhubarb.

Reduce animal fat in your diet.

That means cutting back or completely eliminating red meat and high-fat dairy. Excess fat is generally unhealthy for your prostate–and can lead to the development of prostate cancer. In addition, avoid trans fatty acids: margarine, baked foods and fried foods fall into this latter category.

Watch your cholesterol levels.

There is evidence that men who have higher levels of LDL, also known as bad cholesterol, are at greater risk for prostate issues, especially prostate cancer.

The Best Advice

Consume a balanced diet.

Making sure that you have a proper balance of fiber, carbohydrates, and various nutrients in your diet will have the effect of helping every organ in your body perform more efficiently, including your prostate. By eating right, you keep your immune system strong, reduce inflammation of the prostate, and increase your chances of your natural defenses successfully fending off any problems that could threaten the state of your healthy prostate.

Get some type of exercise every day.

Essentially, anything that is good for your heart will also help you maintain a healthy prostate. Exercise also has the benefit of reducing the amount of prostate-specific antigen or PSA in your body. Lower PSA levels mean a lower risk of prostate cancer. Thirty minutes of walking at a brisk pace, riding a bicycle around the neighborhood or even some aerobics while you watch television can help your body remain strong and more likely to maintain a healthy prostate gland.

Don’t put off that annual exam.

Many prostate issues can be caught early by undergoing a digital rectal exam by a qualified physician, as well as submitting blood for testing. If there is a history of prostate disease among other male relatives, it is a good idea to start this type of examination early on. At the very least, men over the age of forty should have a digital rectal exam annually as part of the strategy and treatment to maintain a healthy prostate.

See your doctor if anything seems out of the ordinary.

Men who find they begin to experience the urge for more frequent urination, or notice low grade pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic region should notify a physician as soon as possible. While the origin of the issue may not involve the prostate, identifying the reason for the increased urination or discomfort in the area near the prostate does make it possible to treat the condition before it has a chance to worsen.

Choosing to make lifestyle changes that tend to maintain a healthy prostate do much more than simply improve your chances for prostate health. A proper diet, regular exercise, and seeing your doctor regularly can help you feel better in general, keep your heart healthy, and increase your chances of enjoying a long life as well as a healthy prostate.

As always, knowledge is power and prevention is the best defense, so become proactive in learning more about this devastating but highly preventable disorder. It could save your life!

Combining efforts will do more to support your body’s ability to function properly than using just one. Your ability to heal will depend on which of these remedies you use for best results.  Which will you try?

 

Dr. Richard A. DiCenso is the CEO of Matrix Transformation and author of Beyond Medicine, Exploring A New Way Of Thinking. He is an international speaker and complementary care expert with over 30 years experience in treating chronic symptoms. With his extensive practice in “Whole Person Therapy,” human biochemistry and orthomolecular nutrition, Dr. DiCenso is a leading authority in biological fluid analysis with his Matrix Assessment Profile (MAP). Dr. DiCenso provides unique insights into the world of unresolved symptoms and has helped thousands of individuals around the world with undiagnosable symptoms to dramatically improve their health without drugs or surgery. Visit www.MatrixTransformation.com for more information.


  1. Fair, W. R. and Heston, W. “Prostate Inflammation Linked to Zinc Shortage” Prevention 113: June, 1977
  2. Fair and Heston, 1977; Pfeiffer, 1978
  3. Journal of Nutrition 133(2003):3356

 

Filed Under: Prostate Health, February 2012, Slideshow, The 7 Rungs of the Health & Wellness Ladder Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

SMOKING ADDICTION: Why To Quit and How To Do It

January 1, 2012 By Leave a Comment

When your parents were young, people could buy cigarettes and smoke pretty much anywhere — even in hospitals! Ads for cigarettes could be see everywhere.  Today, we are more aware about the dangers of smoking and how bad it is for our health. Smoking is now restricted or banned in almost all public places and cigarette companies are no longer allowed to advertise on TV, radio and in many magazines.

Almost everyone knows:

  • Smoking causes cancer, emphysema, and heart disease.
  • Smoking can shorten your life by 10 years or more.
  • The habit can cost a smoker thousands of dollars a year.

So, how come people are still lighting up? The answer, in a word, is addiction.

Smoking in the U.S. goes back almost 400 years, with the first cash crop of tobacco leaf grown in Jamestown in 1612. It is only in the last 50 years that smoking has been recognized as more than just a “nasty habit” and seen to be a true addiction.

In the middle of the 20th century, the anti-smoking movement started gaining ground in the U.S. when the link between smoking and lung cancer was exposed.

How Addictive Is Smoking?

In 2007, a study in the British Medical Journal, Lancet ranked tobacco along with nineteen other abused substances on a scale of dependence and physical harm. Tobacco was more addictive than amphetamines, barbiturates and alcohol. It placed about even with cocaine. The only abused drug that clearly beat it was heroin.

Once You Start, It Is Hard To Stop

Smoking is a hard habit to break because tobacco contains nicotine, which is highly addictive. Like heroin or other addictive drugs, the body and mind quickly become so used to the nicotine in cigarettes that a person needs to have it just to feel normal.

People start smoking for a variety of different reasons. Some think it looks cool. Others start because their family members or friends smoke. Statistics show that about 9 out of 10 tobacco users start before they are 18 years old. Most adults who started smoking in their teens never expected to become addicted. That is why people say it is just so much easier to not start smoking – at all.

How Smoking Affects Your Health

There are no physical reasons to start smoking. The body does not need tobacco the way it needs food, water, sleep and exercise. Many of the chemicals in cigarettes, like nicotine and cyanide, are actually poisons that can kill in high enough doses.

The body is smart and when it is being poisoned by nicotine, it goes on the defense. First-time smokers often feel pain or burning in the throat and lungs and some people feel sick or even throw up the first few times they try tobacco.

The consequences of this poisoning happen gradually.  These diseases limit a person’s ability to be normally active and they can even be fatal. In the United States alone, smoking is responsible for about 1 out of 5 deaths.

You probably already know that smoking is bad for your health and that quitting smoking will reduce your risk of getting a disease related to smoking, such as heart or lung disease. Here are the facts about smoking and your health.

  • Over the long term, smoking leads people to develop health problems like heart disease, stroke, emphysema (breakdown of lung tissue) and many types of cancer — including lung, throat, stomach and bladder cancer.
  • Smokers are at increased risk for developing other cancers of the voice box (larynx), mouth, throat, esophagus, intestines, bladder, kidney and pancreas.
  • People who smoke also have an increased risk of infections like bronchitis and pneumonia.
  • Smokers develop wrinkles and yellow teeth.
  • People who smoke are twice as likely to lose teeth, develop gum disease or other dental problems, as people who do not smoke.
  • Smokers lose bone density, which increases their risk of osteoporosis, a condition that causes older people to become bent over and their bones to break more easily.
  • Smokers also tend to be less active than nonsmokers because smoking affects lung power.
  • Smokers suffer from shortness of breath, energy and asthma symptoms.
  • Smoking can also cause fertility problems and can impact sexual health in both men and women.
  • Girls who are on the pill or other hormone-based methods of birth control (like the patch or the ring) increase their risk of serious health problems, such as heart attacks, if they smoke.
  • Underweight babies and problem pregnancies are likely in women who smoke.
  • 1 out of 2 people who continue to smoke will die premature deaths because of their smoking.

The consequences of smoking may seem very far off, but long-term health problems are not the only hazard of smoking. Nicotine and the other toxins in cigarettes, cigars, and pipes can affect a person’s body quickly, which means that smokers experience many of these problems:

  • smokers teeth by flicrk cszar

    Bad skin. Because smoking restricts blood vessels, it can prevent oxygen and nutrients from getting to the skin — which is why smokers often appear pale and unhealthy. Studies have also linked smoking to an increased risk of getting a type of skin rash called psoriasis.

  • Bad breath. Cigarettes leave smokers with a condition called halitosis, or persistent bad breath.
  • Bad-smelling clothes and hair. The smell of stale smoke tends to linger — not just on people’s clothing but on their hair, furniture and cars. Furthermore, it is often hard to get the smell of smoke out.
  • Reduced athletic performance. People who smoke usually can not compete with nonsmoking peers because the physical effects of smoking (like rapid heartbeat, decreased circulation and shortness of breath) impair sports performance.
  • Greater risk of injury and slower healing time. Smoking affects the body’s ability to produce collagen, so common sports injuries such as damage to tendons and ligaments, will heal more slowly in smokers than nonsmokers.
  • Increased risk of illness. Studies show that smokers get more colds, flu, bronchitis and pneumonia than nonsmokers. People with certain health conditions, like asthma, become more sick if they smoke (and often if they are just around people who smoke). Because smokers use it as a way to manage weight, they often light up instead of eating, so their bodies also lack the nutrients they need to grow, develop and fight off illness properly.

The only thing that really helps a person avoid the problems associated with smoking is staying smoke free.  Different approaches to quitting work for different people. For some, quitting cold turkey is best. Others find that a slower approach is the way to go. Some people find that it helps to go to a support group. These are sometimes sponsored by local hospitals or organizations like the American Cancer Society. Home Cures That Work is offering you a number of good resources to help people quit smoking.

When quitting smoking, it can be helpful to realize that the first few days are the hardest. So, do not give up. Some people find they have a few relapses before they manage to quit for good.

Staying smoke free will give you a whole lot more of everything — more energy, better performance, better looks, more money in your pocket, and in the long run, more life to live!

Smoking Cessation: Creating A Quit Smoking Plan

If you are like many smokers and other tobacco users, then you know you should quit but you just are not sure how to do it. Creating a quit-smoking plan may improve your chances of stopping for good. Having a quit-smoking plan helps you cope with the physical and emotional issues that often arise when you stop smoking, such as nicotine withdrawal and strong urges to smoke.

Deciding To Quit Smoking

Sure, you may be able to list plenty of reasons to stop smoking. You may be worried about the health problems related to smoking, the social stigma, the expense or the pressure from loved ones. But, only you can decide when you are ready to stop smoking.

You may spend a lot of time thinking about quitting smoking before you are ready to actually do it. If you are thinking about quitting, go ahead and pick a specific day to quit — your quit day — and then plan for it.

Picking A Quit Day

Pick a specific day within the next month to quit smoking. Do not set your quit day too far in the future or you may find it hard to follow through. But do not do it before you have a quit-smoking plan in place, either.

Having a day in mind can help you prepare for what to expect and to line up helpful support. Pick a random day as your quit day or pick a day that holds special meaning for you, such as a birthday, a holiday or a day of the week that is generally less stressful for you.

What if you decide to quit smoking on the spur of the moment? Follow the quit day advice and go for it.

Preparing For Quit Day

There is no easy way to quit smoking. But, planning for it can help you overcome the hurdles you are likely to face. Here are steps you can take as you prepare for your quit day:

  • Mark the day. Make a big notation of your quit day on your calendar. It is an important day in your life, so treat it like one.
  • Tell people. Let family, friends and co-workers know about your quit day. Make them your allies. They can provide a lot of moral support. Tell them how they can be most supportive of your effort to quit smoking.
  • Clean house. Rid your home, car, office and other places of your smoking and tobacco supplies. Do not keep any cigarettes on hand “just in case” — you might not be able to resist the temptation. Also, consider getting your teeth professionally cleaned as motivation to stay quit.

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If you begin to panic, focus on what is in front of you. It takes practice to live in the present, but it is a valuable tool with lasting benefit to live “in the here and now.”

  • Stock up. Have on hand items that can substitute for the cigarette you are used to having in your mouth, such as sugarless gum, hard candy, cinnamon sticks and crunchy vegetables.
  • Join up. The more support you have, the more likely you are to stop smoking successfully. Find local quit-smoking support groups. Many hospitals and clinics offer classes or groups. You can join online quit-smoking groups or programs. You can even get cell phone apps, text messages or alerts to help you quit.
  • Reflect. If you have tried to quit smoking before but took it up again, think about what challenges you faced and why you started again. What worked and what did not? Think about what you can do differently this time. For example, make a list of your triggers and how you will deal with them. Keeping a journal about your quit-smoking plan efforts may help you monitor feelings and situations that ignite your smoking urges.

Handling Quit Day

Getting through your quit day can be emotionally and physically challenging, especially if strong tobacco cravings strike. Try these tips to help manage your quit day:

  • toothpicks by flickr Brian @ HKG

    Do not smoke, not even “just one.”

  • Begin using nicotine replacement therapy if you have chosen that method.
  • Remind yourself of your reasons to stop smoking.
  • Drink plenty of water or juice.
  • Keep physically active: go for a walk, exercise, joy, ride a bike, swim or even garden.
  • Chew on a toothpick or piece of gum, or suck on a piece of hard candy.
  • Avoid situations and people that trigger your urge to smoke.
  • Attend a support group, counseling session or stop smoking class.
  • Practice stress management and relaxation techniques: listen to music, try deep breathing exercises, yoga or doing a puzzle.
  • Keep your hands busy by typing, writing, squeezing a ball or knitting. 

Staying Quit

With a quit-smoking plan to guide you, line up your resources now so that you can lean on them when you quit smoking. The more resources you have in place upfront — support groups, nicotine replacement, counseling — the more likely you are to quit and stay quit.

Make Your Diet Quit For You!

A diet loaded with veggies, fruits, whole grains will help you feel great as you eliminate nicotine and it will help prevent the feared weight gain typically associated with quitting smoking.

Eating a diet loaded with antioxidant-rich vegetables, fruits, and whole grains may help you lower their chances of suffering withdrawal symptoms when you first stop smoking– even if you have a long history of one to two packs per day.

Antioxidants are certain vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that may lower withdrawal risk by sopping up damaging molecules in our blood called free radicals, which have been linked to heart disease, stroke and other diseases.

Supplement Your Diet For Additional Quit Support!

As you begin your journey to become a non-smoker, there are certain specific nutrients that will provide exceptional benefits during the process of withdrawal, regeneration, energy and rejuvenation.

Of course, the B vitamins, vitamin E, vitamin C and vitamin A are essential during this process. However, the best overall supplement strategy will include five things:

Please visit our Home Cures That Work Amazon store for your vitamin and mineral supplement needs.  Not all supplements are created equal, so we have researched those that safe for consumption, proven to properly digest and qualify according to label specifications.  Don’t leave your health to just any vitamin, supplement your health with the best in our Amazon store.

Benefits of Quitting

Many people who quit smoking are surprised by how good they feel!

  • They feel in charge
  • They do not need to smoke
  • They do not have to find places to smoke
  • They do not have to worry about their smoke bothering others
  • They smell good
  • Their hair, clothes, and breath do not smell like smoke
  • Their cars, homes, and kids do not smell like smoke
  • They can better smell food and other good smells
  • They feel more relaxed
  • They do not have to make sure they always have cigarettes
  • They have more money
  • They are not as worried about their health
  • They look and feel better
  • They feel good about being able to quit
  • Their skin looks healthier
  • They have more energy when they walk, play with their kids, or do something active 

The Reality Of Quitting

Tobacco use, especially smoking, is the number one preventable cause of death and disease in the United States.  Take charge of your health because the benefits of quitting smoking are far better than the discomforts of recovery – staying alive! So, stay with it and find your freedom. Once you do, you will never let it go.

 

You will be happy to say “I do not smoke” and “I have no reason to start smoking again.”  Believe it or not, you won’t miss smoking at all. How do you break the habit of “reaching for one?” Go for it! 

 

Dr. Richard A. DiCenso is the CEO of Matrix Transformation and author of Beyond Medicine, Exploring A New Way Of Thinking. He is an international speaker and complementary care expert with over 30 years experience in treating chronic symptoms. With his extensive practice in “Whole Person Therapy,” human biochemistry and orthomolecular nutrition, Dr. DiCenso is a leading authority in biological fluid analysis with his Matrix Assessment Profile (MAP). Dr. DiCenso provides unique insights into the world of unresolved symptoms and has helped thousands of individuals around the world with undiagnosable symptoms to dramatically improve their health without drugs or surgery. Visit www.MatrixTransformation.com for more information.
Filed Under: Quit Smoking, January 2012, Slideshow, The 7 Rungs of the Health & Wellness Ladder Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Adrenal Fatigue: Tired All The Time?

December 1, 2011 By Leave a Comment

“I’m in bed and I can’t get up.”

If this sounds like you, then read further.

  • Are you experiencing stress related adrenal fatigue?
  • Are you tired for no reason?
  • Having trouble getting up in the morning?
  • Need coffee, colas, energy drinks, sodas, salty or sweet snacks to keep going?
  • Feeling run down and stressed?

If you answered “yes” to these questions, then you may be experiencing adrenal fatigue.

Adrenal fatigue occurs when adrenal gland function becomes less than optimal—usually as a result of stress. An estimated 80% of people experience adrenal fatigue and the physical symptoms of stress at some point in their lives, yet it is frequently overlooked and misunderstood by the medical community. It is not the same as Addison’s disease.

In 1998, Dr. James L. Wilson coined the term “adrenal fatigue” to identify a specific kind of chronic tiredness that many people experience. It can affect anyone who undergoes frequent, persistent or severe mental, emotional or physical stress.

Adrenal function can also be an important factor in health issues ranging from allergies to obesity. Since the major job of the adrenal glands is to respond to perceived threats (stress), when it is assaulted with inordinate amounts of stress over a long period of time, it begins to secrete stress hormones, causing suppression of the immune system and a slowing down of metabolism making you more vulnerable to allergic reactions and weight gain.

What is Adrenal Fatigue?

The adrenal glands are tiny organs that rest on top of each kidney. Despite their small size, the adrenal glands play an important role in the body, producing numerous hormones that impact our development and growth, affect our ability to deal with stress and help to regulate kidney function.

The adrenal glands are comprised of two parts–the cortex and medulla–that produce hormones (chemicals messengers that regulate body functions). The medulla, or inner part of the adrenal glands, produces the hormones norepinephrine and epinephrine, which regulate the “fight or flight” response in the body, the body’s reaction to stressful events. The cortex, the outer portion of the adrenal glands, produces several hormones that affect blood pressure, blood sugar levels, water balance, growth, as well as some sexual characteristics.

With each increment of reduction in adrenal function, every organ and system in your body is more profoundly affected as the functions of growth, metabolism, regulating blood pressure, blood sugar, kidney function and hormone production are compromised.

Changes occur in your carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism, fluid and electrolyte balance, heart and cardiovascular system and even sex drive. Many other alterations take place at the biochemical and cellular levels in response to and to compensate for the decrease in adrenal hormones that occurs with adrenal fatigue. Your body does its best to make up for under-functioning adrenal glands, but it does so at a price.

This syndrome has been known by many other names throughout the past century, such as non-Addison’s hypoadrenia, sub-clinical hypoadrenia, neurasthenia, adrenal neurasthenia, adrenal apathy and adrenal fatigue. Although it affects millions of people in the U.S. and around the world, conventional medicine does not yet recognize it as a distinct syndrome.

What Causes Adrenal Fatigue?

Adrenal fatigue is produced when your adrenal glands cannot adequately meet the demands of stress. The adrenal glands mobilize your body’s responses to every kind of stress (whether it’s physical, emotional, or psychological) through hormones that regulate energy production and storage, immune function, heart rate, muscle tone and other processes that enable you to cope with the stress.

Whether you have an emotional crisis such as the death of a loved one, a physical crisis such as major surgery, or any type of severe repeated or constant stress in your life, your adrenals have to respond to the stress and maintain homeostasis. If their response is inadequate, you are likely to experience some degree of adrenal fatigue.

During adrenal fatigue your adrenal glands function, but not well enough to maintain optimal homeostasis because their output of regulatory adrenal hormones has been diminished – usually by over-stimulation. Over-stimulation of your adrenals can be caused either by a very intense single stress, or by chronic or repeated stresses that have a cumulative effect.

Who Is Susceptible To Adrenal Fatigue?

Anyone can experience adrenal fatigue at some time in his or her life. An illness, a life crisis, or a continuing difficult situation can drain the adrenal resources of even the healthiest person. However, there are factors that can make you more susceptible to adrenal fatigue. These include:...


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Filed Under: Adrenal Fatigue, December 2011, Slideshow, The 7 Rungs of the Health & Wellness Ladder Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

No Pain, No Gain? The Best Natural Relief

November 1, 2011 By 2 Comments

I decided to watch a bit of the Ironman competition the other night.  They began to feature a man named Lew Hollander.  He looked around 65 years old and they said he was about to complete his 21st Ironman competition.  That in itself was shocking, but then they went on to say that he was not 65 as I thought, but 80 years old!  My jaw dropped.  Lew Hollander is truly a testimony of what our bodies are capable of doing.

Many people believe that pain, discomfort and lack of physical fitness come with age.  They believe there is nothing you can do about it and you just have to “survive” the best you can.  This is not true!  Our bodies are amazing creations and made to function without pain and discomfort well into our “old age.”

If we experience pain and discomfort, then our body is giving us a message: something is out of balance.  Instead of taking medication to dull the pain, the key is to find the cause of the imbalance and correct it.

Inflammatory Pain

The #1 cause of pain is inflammation.  Whether you are dealing with fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis or just over-all aches and pains, inflammation is the likely culprit.

Many things can cause inflammation in the body:

  • Injury or trauma
  • Infection
  • Autoimmune disorders
  • Allergic reactions
  • Stress

.

When your body starts to kill the natural defense system instead of protecting it, chronic inflammation becomes a problem. To start your healing, begin at the end of the fork.  Sodas, French fries, chips and burgers are the real weapons of mass destruction.

Inflammationwas not meant to be the “bad guy.” It is actually designed to help heal. It clears damaged and dysfunctional tissue from area and creates an increased blood flow causing swelling.  This swelling allows repair cells and protein-rich plasma to gather around the wound to help heal it.

But when inflammation becomes ongoing, it can start causing more harm than good.  In fact, chronic inflammation is a disease.  This type of inflammation can cause serious conditions, including:

  • Heart disease
  • Cancer
  • Diabetes
  • Arthritis
  • And more

 Anti-Inflammatory Drugs = Terrible Side-Effects

Once inflammation becomes problematic, doctors typically prescribe some sort of anti-inflammatory or steroid.  These drugs may work, but long-term use is harsh on the body.   Steroids actually weaken your immune system and put you at greater risk for infections.  Long-term use of steroids can cause many harmful side-effects, including:...


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Filed Under: Pain Management, November 2011, Slideshow, The 7 Rungs of the Health & Wellness Ladder Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Nature’s First Aid Kit

October 1, 2011 By Leave a Comment

natural first aid kit by flickr mayalu

Hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes–nature has not spared her fury recently. If you have not been affected, you probably know someone who has. Because of this, survival kits have been growing in popularity. People are even starting to take food and water storage more seriously. However, one thing that most disaster planning kits lack is natural medicines.

Most of us do not have access to antibiotics and other prescription meds to add to our survival kits. You might have a first aid kit, but are you stocked up with products that could combat illness? Should a biological attack or deadly flu virus sweep the nation, would you have the resources available to combat its threat? There are several things I feel are essential to stock up on and store in case of a disaster or outbreak. If a true disaster was to occur and you had no access to medical treatment, having certain natural remedies on hand could save your life.

I have put together what I feel is a thorough and effective “Natural First Aid Kit.” This is not a substitute to a regular first aid kit, but rather something to add to it. Many of these natural medicines are just as effective as prescription drugs, specifically antibiotics.

Take note that several of these supplements have proven in labs to kill the bird flu and the swine flu. If a biological attack were to ever occur, you would have a cabinet full of immune boosters and virus and bacteria killers to combat that attack.

Natural Antibiotics and Antivirals...


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Filed Under: Slideshow, Survival, October 2011, The 7 Rungs of the Health & Wellness Ladder Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

Life After Detox

September 1, 2011 By Leave a Comment

So, you have just been through detoxification program. The first few days were tough. Maybe you even had headaches and stomach pangs, but you stuck it out. Then your body began to adjust and you found yourself feeling more alert, more energetic and you probably lost some weight.

You felt really good about your ability to stay the course.  As you moved toward the end of the program, you not only recommended a detox to your friends and family, but you also grew confident that you could change what you eat, how you eat and how much you eat.

Then, life’s daily pressures and responsibilities began to interfere and you found yourself returning to the same old ways. You started consuming lots of the foods that harm – the processed simple carbohydrates and added sugars, the bad fats and excessive amounts of protein – without enjoying enough of the vegetables, fruits and whole grains that deliver the thousands of micronutrients that support human health.

Why Detox?

Detoxification proponents assert that a short-term, very restricted, very low calorie diet eliminates the toxins that build up in your system over time. Clear out the toxins, so the theory goes, and you will find that all your biologic systems function better. Unfortunately, the science supporting any long terms benefits of a detoxification is mixed, at best.

Other programs, however, view the detoxification as the bridge to a healthier lifestyle. People moving through a detoxification program may break their cravings for sugar and fats. Others find their taste for salt is altered and use significantly less salt for the same taste satisfaction.  A detox may also build a liking for high nutrient vegetables and fruits — raw, juiced or cooked.

Here is where the science is absolutely clear....


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Filed Under: Detoxification, September 2011, Slideshow, Special Feature, The 7 Rungs of the Health & Wellness Ladder Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Bipolar Disorder: Natural Options for Balance

August 1, 2011 By 1 Comment

Once rarely diagnosed, bipolar disorder has exploded in the last 15 years.  Over 5 million Americans are currently diagnosed with bipolar disorder and childhood cases have skyrocketed, increasing over 40 fold!

What’s going on here?  Were there just as many cases before that were undiagnosed, or is something causing this rapid increase bipolar occurrence? Furthermore, is treating bipolar without strong anti-psychotic drugs really a possibility?

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder, also called manic-depressive disorder, is a mental illness that involves both periods of depression and mania, hence it’s name.  In the mania state there is little sleep, risky behavior and an inability to concentrate.  One may feel invincible and have delusions or hallucinations.

In the depressive state there are mood swings, irritability and an increased need for sleep. One may sleep for weeks and never want to get out of bed.  Suicidal thoughts are also common in the depressive state.

Degrees of bipolar vary from severe to mild.  The mania or depression state can last weeks or even years before flip flopping to the other state of mind.

It is very important that one gets a proper diagnosis for bipolar disorder before they begin any kind of treatment.  Many times a hormonal imbalance, thyroid issues or menopause can manifest similar symptoms of bipolar disorder. ADD and ADHD can also look like bipolar disorder, especially in children.

Anti-Depressants and Bipolar

I am actually shocked when one of my new clients is not taking some sort of anti-anxiety or anti-depressant medication. Drugs like Paxil and Prozac get handed out like candy to both children and adults.

Like most pharmaceutical drugs, anti-depressants don’t fix the root of the problem, but rather mask the symptoms of bipolar disorder, have terrible side effects and create long-term effects that are even worse.

Have you ever heard the commercials for anti-depressants?  Towards the end they list all the possible side-effects.  Nearly every commercial says, “Call your doctor if you have increased thoughts of suicide.”  You would think an anti-depressant would help with those types of thoughts!  Yet, these commonly prescribed medications can not only cause someone to become more depressed than they already are, but can also cause one to go into a state of mania.

Anti-depressants are some of the most overly prescribed drugs on the market. This over medication of society is causing more harm than good.

  • 25-50% of children who are on anti-depressants for 5 years end up being diagnosed with bi-polar disorder.
  • 25% of adults are diagnosed as bipolar after being on anti-depressants for 5 years.

It is my belief that the large increase in bi-polar disorder is actually caused by unneeded prescription drugs.  Anytime time you start taking a cocktail of drugs that effect brain function, there are potentially harmful and threatening risks and side effects.

SSRI anti-depressants, in particular, have the possible side effect of putting people in a bipolar mania state.  They can also cause rapid cycling in someone who already suffers from mild bipolar disorder and may not know it.  I don’t believe this is the cause in every bipolar diagnosis, but I do believe it is a contributing factor.  With around 20 million people on anti-depressants and their possible side effects, I can’t help but to think it plays a part.

If you’re dealing with depression or interested in preventing your chances of becoming bipolar, there are natural alternatives you can consider:

  • St. John’s Wort has shown to be just as effective as Prozac.
  • Exercise also has amazing benefits for depression and in studies showed better results than drugs.
  • L-Theanine and 5-HTP can also increase your serotonin levels.

Serotonin is known as our “feel good” neurotransmitter and if found in low levels, it has been linked to depression.  It plays an extremely important part in regulating our mood and sense of well-being.

I’m Bipolar. Now What?

I want to stress again that the importance of ruling out hormonal and other imbalances before you receive a bipolar diagnosis.  Once you’ve received a proper diagnosis of bipolar disorder, your psychiatrist will want to start treatment.  It is extremely important that you discuss any and all changes you are considering with your doctor.  It is not always safe to mix pharmaceuticals with natural supplements.

If you’re lucky, your doctor may be very encouraging about you seeking natural alternatives.  If not, you can always call around and see if there are any other psychiatrists in town who are.  Some chiropractors and naturopathic doctors also specialize in mental health issues, so find out who is in your area.

Diet is #1

As with any health issues, diet is key #1.  No matter how many natural pills you pop, without proper nutrition, you won’t feel the full effects.  It is very important that those with bipolar disorder eat...


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Filed Under: Bipolar Disorder, August 2011, Slideshow, The 7 Rungs of the Health & Wellness Ladder Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Managing Menopause Naturally

July 1, 2011 By Leave a Comment

“I feel like I’m going crazy!” she said.  I’ll never forget that moment. My mother-in-law was 51 and completely menopausal.  She confessed to me through her tears, that she felt like she was literally losing her mind.  Her body was hot flashing, she could hardly sleep, and her mood was all over the map.  I could tell she was clearly not herself and my heart broke for her.

Her pain reminded me that even I would have to experience menopause someday.  It is completely unavoidable and a natural part of life’s transition.   It was then that I began my quest to find the best and most effective natural menopause solutions.  I not only wanted to help my mother-in-law feel normal again, but I wanted to be prepared for when my day arrived.

Perimenopause or Menopause??

Many of you aren’t sure if you’re in menopause or not.  You may think you are having severe PMS symptoms or that you’re too young to be in menopause. Shockingly, perimenopause can begin in women as young as 35 years old!  The whole process for peri- to post- menopause can last from approximately age 35 to age 60.  The average woman transitions from perimenopause to menopause around age 51.

The difference between perimenopause and menopause can be confusing to many people.  Perimenopause is the period of time when the body starts preparing itself to eventually stop menstruating. The word “peri” means “near” and perimenopausal symptoms can look very similar to both PMS symptoms and menopausal symptoms.  This period lasts around 10 years.  Hot flashes and night sweats are typically deemed as “menopausal” symptoms, but really begin in perimenopause. Once you have completely stopped having a menstrual cycle, you are considered to be in menopause.  If your menstruation cycles still occur, even if they are erratic and irregular, you are still in perimenopause.

The Beginnings of Transition

If you’re still not sure where you’re at in your life’s stages of transition, these symptoms serve as great indicators of perimenopause.   Of course, the most accurate way to find out is to get a hormone panel run by your doctor.

Some perimenopausal symptoms include:

  • Heart Palpitations
  • Insomnia
  • Night Sweats
  • Loss of Libido
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Fatigue
  • Fuzzy Thinking
  • Hot Flashes
  • Migraines
  • Blood sugar imbalance

This list truly goes on and on.  These are merely just a few of the many symptoms felt during perimenopause.  Reading this list may bring you relief to know that it’s your hormones causing these symptoms.  So many of you, just like my mother-in-law, feel like you’re going crazy or that maybe you’re on the verge of a nervous breakdown.  The great new is that there are many ways to bring relief to your body that may seem to have a mind of it’s own.

Food for Hormone Balance

Your diet is essential for hormone balance.  There are foods that can literally help effect the production of our hormones.  Low fat and fat free diets have caused a major problem in our society.  Not only do these diets promote carbs and sugars, but they are starving our bodies of the very components it needs to manufacture hormones!  Most all the hormones in our bodies are created from fat and cholesterol.  If we don’t eat adequate amounts, than hormone production gets interrupted.

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It is important to highlight that not all fat is healthy.  Processed oils like canola, and soy oils are toxic to the system as are transfats like hydrogenated oils.  Some examples of healthy fats are:

  • Olive Oil
  • Coconut Oil
  • Avocado Oil
  • Ghee
  • Organic Butter

Eggs are also a great source of fat and cholesterol needed for healthy hormone production.

Carbohydrates, even complex ones, need to be very limited for hormone balance.  Carbs cause fluctuations in blood sugar, which in turn creates an insulin response.  Insulin is a hormone that promotes body fat.  But, body fat isn’t the only reason to avoid carbs.  These fluctuations in blood sugar also exasperate menopausal symptoms.

Dangerous HRT Drugs

The most common thing prescribed by doctors for menopausal symptoms are Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) drugs.  Premarin, the most commonly prescribed, is an estrogen extracted from pregnant horse urine.  This estrogen is not identical to human estrogen and has caused a dramatic increase in breast cancer.  It is also been shown to increase the risk of heart disease.

Provera is another drug used in HRT.  It is a synthetic form of progesterone and has shown to be even more dangerous than premarin.  Provera also increases the chance of breast cancer and can cause blood clots and strokes.

There are other HRT drugs on the market, as well, and they all have similar side effects.  HRT drugs should be avoided — at all costs.  The terrible side effects far outweigh the supposed benefits.  I personally know five women, all of which have had breast cancer, and all five used HRT drugs.

Coincidence?

Bio-Identical HRT

Bio-Identical hormone replacement therapy is gaining momentum and popularity.  Celebrity’s like Suzanne Somer’s are touting their miraculous results.  Bio-identical hormones are not drugs; rather, they are “bio-identical” to the very hormones in your body.  These bio-identicals cannot be patented since they are natural. Therefore, big drug companies can’t make a profit from them.  These natural hormones are much harder to find for that very reason. They still must be prescribed by a doctor or nurse practitioner and compounded at a pharmacy.

I have seen women’s lives change by using bio-identical HRT.  Finding a practioner in your area who specializes in bio-identicals could be a challenge.  If you can’t find a practioner through an internet search, calling a women’s clinic and checking with your local health food store can also be helpful.

Nature’s Hormone Balancers

Not everyone has access to bio-identical hormones, nor does everyone need them.  Many women find relief using natural supplements and herbs that are much more accessible, lower in price, and don’t require a prescription like bio-identicals.  I typically start by suggesting natural supplements.  If my client finds no relief from herbs and supplements, I will then suggest the use of bio-identical hormones.

Progesterone Cream

Flickr by shawncampbell

One of the most popular natural treatments is progesterone cream.  During perimenopause, a woman’s estrogen levels usually stay the same or even climb, but their progesterone levels drop.  This is why many women find relief using progesterone cream.  Progesterone cream is available at your local health food store or online.  Make sure the cream you purchase specifies that it is bio-identical.  The dosage is a little different for menstruating and non-menstruating women.

  • If you still have your menses, apply...


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Filed Under: Menopause, July 2011, Slideshow, The 7 Rungs of the Health & Wellness Ladder Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Can We Reverse This Autism Pandemic? Leading Scientists Say Yes.

April 1, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Did you know that 1 out of every 150 babies born in the U.S. has autism?

Autism currently affects about 1,500,000 people in the U.S., and the numbers are increasing, according to the Autism Society of America.

Some people are calling the autism pandemic “a national emergency,” as autism rates skyrocket worldwide.

Are we all just going to sit and watch the autism pandemic get worse day by day?

The truth is many leading scientists agree much more can be done to help people with autism. Just blindly accepting autism as fate doesn’t help anyone.

If you have a loved one with Autism and you want to give them the best quality of life possible, as soon as possible, then this may be the most important autism report you’ll ever read.

The signs of autism usually appear within the first three years of life. Currently, estimates claim the annual cost of caring for autistic people in the U.S. is about $13 billion per year and the lifetime care of an individual autistic person averages $2 million.

So, if we’re spending all this money on autism, then where is the cure?

Spending billions of dollars “treating symptoms” changes nothing. The only way to make a lasting difference is to eliminate the underlying cause of autism.

“Autism is one of the most complex challenges before us today.”

Before real cutting-edge advancements can become mainstream, the prejudices and blocks to proper care need to be eliminated.

To move toward a real solution, we must first we need to accept the reality that Western medicine has blatantly failed to help the autistic. It only adds insult to injury when doctors refuse to accept the reality of their inability to help anyone with drugs and surgery.

The real challenge is really about learning to listen better to what people with autism can teach us about the best ways to help them with healing alternatives. Until we agree on the cure, it benefits no one to condemn an autistic person to ignorance, social prejudice and stereotypes.

After decades of trial and error, new ways of helping autistic people are redefining what it means to be autistic as well as non-autistic. Today, we’re taking giant steps toward agreeing that autism is both preventable and curable . . . perhaps in the final lesson we will also discover what it means to be more human.

Autism In Perspective

Autism used to be quite rare, occurring in just 1 child out of 2000.

However, since the early 1990′s, the rate of autism has spread exponentially around the world with statistics as high as 1 out of 110, with boys being diagnosed 400% more than girls.

The Centers for Disease Control defines 5 main types of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

The five types of ASD are:

  1. Classical autism
  2. Asperger’s syndrome
  3. Pervasive Developmental Disorder –not Otherwise specified (PDD-NOS)
  4. Rett syndrome
  5. Childhood Disintegrative Disorder

Let’s look at the history of this relatively young condition.

  • 1911: Eugen Bleuler, a Swiss psychiatrist, used the term autistic to describe a group of symptoms related to schizophrenia.
  • 1940’s: Dr. Leo Kanner from Johns Hopkins University, first coined autism as “Kanner’s syndrome,” and referred to it as an infantile psychosis.
  • Meanwhile Hans Asperger, a scientist in Germany, identified a similar condition that’s now called Asperger’s syndrome.
  • 1960’s: Bernard Rimland, a psychologist who was the father of an autistic child, redefined autism as a “brain disorder.”

For an entire decade, they used...


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Filed Under: Autism, April 2011, Slideshow, The 7 Rungs of the Health & Wellness Ladder Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Love Is A Many Splendored Thing

February 1, 2011 By 1 Comment

Passion is the flammable fabric necessary for any romantic relationship to survive in the long run.

The danger is passion alone can consume you in its exciting flames just about as fast as it can abandon you.

Intimacy, on the other hand, takes time to grow and blossom, which when nurtured with genuine love and compassion eventually leads to commitment.

“Sometimes, things really do turn out right, for strangers in the night.”

If you’re a die-hard romantic who still holds out for and believes in true love, nothing could be more important than having it and keeping it. When you have your health and you’re really in love, then you have a priceless piece of heaven on earth.

The Triangle Of Love

As you may already know, passion without love is nothing but pure infatuation. Infatuation is the state of being temporarily carried away by unreasoned passion or addictive love.

Passion, intimacy and commitment cannot stand alone.

Let’s look at the different forms of love, passion, intimacy and commitment make up . . .

  • If you have a sense of commitment and desire to make your relationship last, but you don’t have passion and intimacy you have only “the idea” of love or . . . emotional love.
  • Let’s say you’ve got passion and the drive to build a life together, but you lack intimacy . . . you have puppy love or fatuous love.
  • Alright, so you are in an intimate relationship and you are committed to building a future together, you’re like siblings, there is no fiery passion or erotic attraction involved . . . you have companionate love.
  • Have you ever fell head-over-heels with a friend? You’re enthralled in the arms of both passion and intimacy . . . you have romantic love.
  • Ultimately, when you have all three dimensions of intimacy plus passion and commitment you have it all . . . Congratulations, you have consummate love!

Sometimes we all get a little obsessed with finding our own “idea of love,” but experiencing love and wishing for it are as far apart as day and night.

You don’t need another philosophy or theory about love; you desire the experience. The real challenge isn’t in finding “true” love. It’s really only about removing the obstacles to love’s presence. That’s the secret.

It’s been said that love and fear are opposites, but I’m telling you today that true love has no real opposite. Once you remove the blocks to really loving, your life becomes an inspiration for others as you experience the intimate interconnectedness of life itself. For it is life that made love possible.

Fear is the lack of love and love is the lack of fear; they are irreconcilable.

The only mystery of love is for those who keep themselves cut off from it. Love’s purpose is to reveal your connectedness and give you a permanent sense of belonging — where there are no more illusions.

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres.” (1 Cor. 13:4–7, NIV)

Love is the fearless knowledge of living right. Call a rose by any other name and it’s still a rose. So, though true love has many names, it’s the quintessential “experience” beyond words we long for.

Being in love is good for you in many splendored ways.

It’s a scientific fact that happily married couples live longer healthier lives than single people do.

Couples who express themselves intimately and passionately have fewer stress hormones according to the journal Psychosomatic Medicine.

It shouldn’t surprise you that having sexual intercourse, kissing and even holding hands has a beneficial biological effect on lowering levels of the “stress hormone” cortisol.

Chronic stress has been shown to weaken the immune system and promote heart disease, even a “broken heart.”

Give Your Sex Life Wings!

In dealing with the ups and downs of any relationship one of the most important things you can do is to find new activities to do together which create a positive feeling for both partners.

Sometimes we place too much pressure solely on intimacy or sex, which is a big reason why so many couples are having sexual issues. Great sex takes patience.  Having sex should never be a pressure issue; take your time to romance the flame of passion.

In fact, did you know “emotional factors” are responsible for nearly half of the male impotence issues in America? The other half has underlying health factors such as diabetes, circulatory problems or some physical trauma.

If you or your partner is suffering from sexual performance issues the best thing you can do, besides addressing your health through diet, exercise and lifestyle, is to introduce novel activities you both might consider to be intimate.

What if your level of sexual pleasure and performance is all in your head?

Bottom line nothing is less attractive than fear. Fear also releases the stress hormone cortisol, which reduces circulation, increases inflammation and wastes your source of intimate sexual energy.

Remember: Perfect Love Casts Out Fear

Here are 3 sexually attractive attitudes to help you men out there who know they deserve to be loved often:

  • Like your self.
    Women are turned on by men who like being men. It keeps you interesting and sends out a positive attractive message.
  • Be a fun lover.
    Women love to go out and play with their sexual partners, so go somewhere or do something together that’s fun.
  • Get what you want.
    Have a big personal goal that drives you and go for it.

Nothing is sexier or a bigger turn on than the mind. Learning to turn on your mind will increase your own sexuality and attract the intimacy you crave form your mate.

Did you know your brain uses 18% of the body’s energy intake while constituting merely 2% of its weight?

Most sexual problems can be overcome naturally using your intelligence, creativity and attitude. Truth is most drugs can’t even beat the placebo effect in the first place, which means if you “believe” you can or can’t, either way you’re right . . .

With a healthy attitude comes a desire for a healthier body. The “right” nutrition is important for sexual health because it energizes your brain, stimulates your nervous system and strengthens circulation.

The foundation for great sex is a healthy mind and body . . . here are some key vitaminerals and nutrients to help you enjoy incredible sex:

  • Vitamin A found in carrots, broccoli and sweet potatoes help produce optimal level of progesterone, which is an important sex hormone that supports libido (that sexy feeling).
  • Vitamin B1 found in sprouted grains, asparagus and pineapples is essential for optimal nerve transmission and energy production throughout the body, which is vital to increase libido.
  • Vitamin B3 found in avocadoes, sprouted grains and beans can enhance the sexual sensation, increase blood flow to the skin and mucous membranes, and intensify the orgasm!
  • Vitamin B6 found in vegetables, nuts and bananas helps regulate prolactin, a natural libido booster.
  • Vitamin C found in citrus, Camu camu and beets is used to help make beneficial hormones vital in sexuality and getting “turned on.”
  • Vitamin D found in mushrooms, eggs and sunlight helps you maintain a healthy and vigorous libido.
  • Vitamin E found in seeds, nuts and green leafy vegetables is a powerful antioxidant and is necessary for healthy cells, especially those involved in the sexual experience.
  • Magnesium found in cacao beans, spinach and nuts is important for the production of sex hormones and neurotransmitters and is a powerful smooth muscle relaxant.
  • Selenium found in parsley, brazil nuts and seaweed is a mineral vital for healthy sperm health. Nearly is stored and used in the testes and seminal ducts.
  • Zinc found in alfalfa, mustard and almonds is used to make testosterone and other sexual hormones. Zinc is loaded in the prostate gland and sperm more than anywhere else in the body.
  • Last, but not least, Essential Fatty acid found in black currants, nuts and cacao butter are needed to make sex hormones and store sexual nutrients to keep you in the game.

Bottom line is your “consummate” relationship needs a constant balance between intimacy, passion and commitment, but without having a healthy lifestyle, a smart diet and quality sex, the triangle of love can collapse.

So, always make it a priority to romance your partner like you did when you were first dating and remember: great sex and romance begin while your clothes are still on.

Nurturing a healthy partnership isn’t just about pushing the right buttons, so don’t let your “sexual rendezvous” to become just another routine. Learn to overcome, be adventurous and have fun.

Learn how to nurture your passion, renew your intimacy and revitalize a healthier sexuality for the years to come.

SOURCE: Dr. Beate Ditzen of the University of Zurich in Switzerland, et al.

Martin Jacobse (The 7 Rungs of the Health and Wellness Ladder), a hearing and speech specialist of 30 years, was first inspired by the natural home remedies used by his Cherokee Grandmother. He has since expanded his interests into naturopathic, alternative and energy medicine. Excited to share his findings and close the gap between the medical profession and natural home remedies, Jacobse found a passion as an independent medical researcher and ghost writer, dedicating his life to getting the word out as a consumer health advocate for Barton Publishing. Jacobse spends his free time practicing the healing art of magnetic Qigong, publishing books and enjoying the quiet of a small horse ranch near the Tonto National Forest in Arizona.
Filed Under: Sex, February 2011, The 7 Rungs of the Health & Wellness Ladder Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
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