Tuesday, August 13, 2013

For those of us with Parkinson's Disease the future may be brighter... Integrative Medicine may play an important role.

Studies that give us an insight into possible genetic link to the Immune System/Parkinson's. Amino Acid therapy-AMA offers continuing Education classes on Amino Acid therapy for Parkinson's.

Why  Integrative Medicine may prove beneficial.


Genetic link to Immune System and Parkinson's

Holistic therapy and Parkinson's

Amino Acid therapy of Parkinson's/ A Case Study

AMA continuing medical education class on this treatment of PD with Amino Acids.

Hope for my recovery from Parkinson's Disease has always consisted of Integrated Medicine.

I saw many Neurologists when first being diagnosed in 2004 with Parkinson's.
Including Neurologist's at the Mayo Clinic and Barrow's Neurological Center located in Arizona. All suggested prescription drug treatment for my symptom's. All explained the short term life of those prescription's with a list of possible side effects. All said their was no cure for Parkinson's. All gave me a bleak outlook for the future.   I was 47 years old then.

I tried several of the agonist's that are currently prescribed for Parkinson's.
The agonist's caused severe side effects for me. The side effects were too detrimental, so after taking the agonist's for a couple of years. I decided to stop using them.

I tried Intravenous Glutathione therapy at an Alternative Naturopathic Clinic... it was great in the beginning. During this time I felt great. The tremors were gone and I had tremendous energy and it made me feel great! I slept better and overall just felt really good. Unfortunately, as time went by the amount of Glutathione had to be increased and the positive results seemed to go away. My tremors returned and even progressed from just my left arm to include my left leg.

At the suggestion of a Naturopathic Physician I tried a compounded form of Carbidopa, not Sinemet. Sinemet is a combination drug. The Carbidopa that I used was only Carbidopa. It worked fantastic... from the first pill I took ... It gave me temporary Euphoria... It alleviated all my symptoms. No more shaking! Again I felt great!

Again it didn't last... After about 3-5 months, I had to increase the dosage. With the increased dosage came side effects. We tried adding the herb Mucuna Pruriens to the mix of what I was taking... it helped for awhile but I couldn't figure out what dose to take. Larger dosage of the Carbidopa was giving me dystonia. And the combination of Mucuna and Carbidopa bothered my stomach to the point I would vomit regularly.

It was at this time that I found the website  Patientslikeme.com
After several postings on this site, someone sent me a message and asked If I heard of the work being done with Amino Acids and Parkinson's. I had not heard about this and that is how I came to learn of the treatment that I started in April of 2009 and continue to use now. Amino Acid therapy of Parkinson's/ A Case Study

I went to the website and got a referral to a licensed Naturopathic Physician trained in using this Protocol. I went to see her in April of 2009 and continue to see her today.

The treatment is not without challenges... it is not a cure.
It has allowed me to quiet my tremors for long periods of time throughout the day with out side effects.
My Pd has not progressed. It is in my left arm and leg. Again this treatment is not without challenges and the expense is considerable.
Overall this treatment has worked best for me and I choose to continue to follow this path.
The expense is well worth it to me... my life would be impossibly difficult to manage without it. So I make the financial sacrifices it requires in order for a better quality of life.

My Naturopathic Physician uses traditional and alternative methods in my overall treatment. She treats me and sees me as a whole person... not a disease or an illness. We discuss my treatment plan and I actively play a part in my care and treatment. She actually listens to me when I tell her something is working or not working.

I feel confident and comfortable sharing information with her... I'm the one with Parkinson's Disease and I actively research and read as much information as possible on the subject of Health and Diet. She steers me in the right direction when I get off center... my own intuition has guided me positively and played a big part  in my journey to recovery.

She supports me with sound advice from years of training and practicing Naturopathic Medicine.

If you are interested in learning more about Naturopathic Medicine and finding a Naturopathic Physician you can go to this site for comprehensive up to date information.

If you live in an area where Naturopathic Physician's are hard to find... you can talk to your Medical Doctor or Neurologist and ask them to read the above information or have them attend an AMA continuing medical education class on this groundbreaking treatment of PD with Amino Acids.



We are all unique and are all affected differently. We deserve to have access to as much information available with the most up to the date information in our fight against Parkinson's Disease.



Integrative Medicine may be key in playing a big part of our future ...we all need to be the best we can be.









Genetic link discovered between immune system

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Learning how to treat symptoms of Parkinson's Disease....

I was doing some searches this morning for information  regarding treatments for Parkinson's Disease and am really amazed at the amount of information that is available to us via the Internet today.

When I was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease back  in 2004 their wasn't much information available with regards to different types of treatments for the Disease. Most of the treatment information I found was with the traditional allopathic drug approach via Sinemet.

Very little Alternative treatment information was published at that time.


Now, I would say that their is almost too much information available.  It can be overwhelming to someone who has been newly diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease.

The standard treatment is still to treat symptoms with Sinemet.  But now they have also added a host of agonists to the regime that are suppose to help relieve symptoms of the disease.

Unfortunately, for some, the new drugs and/or agonists just seem to complicate the original  symptoms of the disease with new symptoms from side effects of the drugs. Anyone who has Parkinson's Disease, will tell you that adding more symptoms... to our already burdened body, is not a good thing!

What I have learned over the past 8 1/2 years of living Parkinson's Disease is this...

Everyone is different . I chose Alternative treatment...because that is what spoke to me the strongest.

If you have been recently diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease... I  urge you to seek out as much information as possible, from as many resources as possible. Trust your gut instincts... you know your body better than anyone. If your doing or taking something that is making you feel worse... or you aren't getting the results you want to feel better. Don't give up hope... keep searching for the treatment that suits you and gives you the results you want.

Remember, you can feel better! It takes hard work and determination to get the results you want. Read, read, read!!! Learn as much as you can so you can help yourself. Don't depend on your Doctor or Pharmacist to know everything. You have to take an active part in your daily healthcare...  Knowledge is Power!


My website address is  www.newfacesofparkinsons.com ... if you would like to read what I originally published in 2005 through 2010... It contains my personal story and journey of living with YOPD and how I chose my treatment in the early years of being diagnosed with Parkinson's.

In 2011, I started communicating via my new blog. If your interested in following up with my personal story and what I am doing now... follow the link below:     

What I am doing today to treat Parkinson's Symptoms 
Diet, Exercise, Water, learning to Breath/relaxation play an important role along with supplemental Amino Acids and the herb Mucuna Pruriens.

updated August  30, 2013



Tuesday, September 11, 2012

My thoughts on Parkinson's Disease today...

When I first started to research about Parkinson's Disease  back in 2004 their really wasn't much information available about how it affected someone like me. Female and age 47.  The information I found was grim and didn't offer me much hope.  You can read more about my story at my website newfacesofparkinsons.com  

I started out researching the typical allopathic treatments... which included reading about the drug Sinemet, along with other drugs that were being used at the time. Reading about all the side effects associated with these drugs... made me feel that it wasn't right for me. I never responded well to drugs in the past... so it was just a gut intuition thing that didn't feel right for me.

It was a natural choice for me to look for alternative treatments for Parkinson's...That's just who I am. Everyone is different and we each have to follow our own Path.

Nowadays their is a plethora of information out there... some of it free and some of it not free. I've read a lot of it. Some of it good and some not so good.

My Personal Experience is this...

In the eight years since being diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease, what I have learned is this...

Parkinson's Disease is different for everyone. What helps one person, may or may not help someone else. You have to do your own research and try what works for you. Listen to your gut instincts. If something sounds to good to be true... it probably is. It's true ... their is no known cure for PD at this time. But, that doesn't mean you can't feel better and function better. What you put in your body plays a huge part in how you feel.

I can take a variety of herbs and supplements (and I do) but the biggest difference comes from what I put into my body via food. Using Food combining to reduce inflammation in my body seems to also help with my symptoms. Breathing...taking time to learn how to breathe and reduce stress. Drinking enough water  is equally important.  Finally exercise... got to move to feel good.  They all  play an extremely important roll in how I feel. 

If you are reading this blog and have recently been newly diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. Please read as much as you can to help yourself. Whether you choose Allopathic care or Alternative care or a combination of both. You need to be aware of all the methods available so you can help yourself.

Parkinson's Disease is not a death sentence... but it does change your life. 

I choose to be in control of my life... I can make a difference. I do it everyday!


Monday, August 27, 2012

Experimenting with food... Parkinson's symptoms get worse!!!

I decided to try an experiment on myself... via the food I put into my body.

The results were pretty drastic. It proves to me that what I eat has a tremendous effect on the severity of my Parkinson's symptoms, along with irritating my stomach.

What did I eat...

I had French dip sandwich with au jus and french fries, I had this 2x during the week... I drank Strawberry Marguerita's... I had Mexican food -Shrimp Burrito with traditional rice and beans. Corn Chips and Salsa. I had tuna fish sandwich on Wonder whole grain white bread... Kettle potato chips... Sierra Mist Soda... White Zinfandel Wine... Dairy Queen Chicken Salad with French dressing.  Egg Salad with Mayonnaise on Wonder whole grain white bread... Subway Pizza with spinach, green peppers, onions cheese and marinara from their meatball sauce. I ate Chinese buffet ....mix of all types of veggies, meats and fried rice... I had frozen pepperoni pizza with cheese. I ate candy... tootsie pops!!! lots of them.

I did have some Fresh fruit for breakfast.... plums, cantaloupe, watermelon, bananas or a Enlgish muffin with butter and strawberry preserves... or I ate no breakfast at all.

I did not do food combining or eat organic foods... I just ate what is typically available via the restaurants in town. And via purchases from the grocery store. I did not drink very much water... and I did minimal exercise.

If you look at the list of things that I ate... you wouldn't really say that it looks bad!!!

But for me it was disastrous!

By the 2nd day of eating this way... my stomach felt bloated and I had extreme pain and a distended abdomen. By the 4th day... my tremors were out of control. I could not get calm, no matter how much of the herb that I normally use to help alleviate my symptoms... I tripled the dosage and it not help... my leg, arm and hand shook like crazy. I could not sit still!  I had cramps in my arm, hand, foot and leg.

I felt horrible... physically and mentally.

What I learned is this... The type of food that I put into my body is the key to how I feel. 

I am back to eating a mostly vegan diet... with occasional organic chicken and/or beef. I seem to do better when I eat less meats or if I do eat them... eat them in small amounts with dinner.
Vegetables... I am trying to purchase most of my produce at the local Farmer's market... or get organic what I can from the  local grocery store. And am eliminating gluten and sugar from my diet!

Already feeling better!!! Stomach bloat is going down and tremors are again controllable, via my herbs.

What a difference a few days makes!!!

Eating healthy food ... makes me feel better!   It's not always easy... but well worth it in the end!







Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Best Veggie Chili...

Best Veggie Chili Ever…

1 small yellow onion      chopped
1 small red onion           chopped
1 large clove garlic         minced
1 jalapeno pepper          chopped   
1 banana pepper            chopped
1 zucchini                       chopped
1 green bell pepper        chopped
1 yellow pepper              chopped

I sautéed all of the above in virgin unprocessed coconut oil until veggies started to get tender. I then added my spices, I don’t use a measuring spoon when adding my spices, so I don’t have exact amounts… I will  do my best to give you estimated amounts.

Turmeric           ½ -1 T.
Chili Powder     1-  2 T.
Cumin Powder   ½ - 1 T.  I like the Smokey flavor it gives the chili
Onion Powder    ½ - 1 teas.
Garlic Powder     ½- 1 teas.
Az Rub  Chipotle style     1  teas.

Mixed into the veggies until all veggies covered with spices…. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

I then added -

1 can of organic diced tomatoes

This didn’t seem like it made enough juice to cover the veggies so added the following:

These were from the local  farmer’s market-

2 small whole tomatoes
5 cherry tomatoes
6 baby organic carrots

I put them into my bullet blender and it made a tomato juice, which I then added to my chili mixture.

I then added 6 Organic Sundried tomatoes in olive oil  (I drained the oil off of them, then chopped them  into small pieces)  to the chili. I then decided to add about 1 T. of the oil from the jar of Organic Sundried tomatoes to my chili.

Final touch …. I added 1 can of Organic tri beans (it is a combination of kidney, pinto and black beans) to the Chili.
 
I let the Chili simmer for about 45 minutes… it got pretty thick! 

I tasted the Chili before it simmered for the 45 minutes and thought it was good … but after it had simmered for the 45 minutes it was awesome! I couldn’t stop tasting it.  I decided that I better walk away and let it cool down so I could put it away for dinner tonight.

I personally think this is my best veggie Chili ever!  It has layers of flavor, it is not spicey at first bite, but as it lingers in your mouth you get a little heat that is just enough… and as for missing the meat… I didn’t miss it at all. 

This has all of the flavor of a meat chili and is a good food combining recipe…  as far as I can tell.

Note: For best results … Start off using less spices and season to your own taste!  I usually start off with small amounts of spices and then season and adjust to my taste buds as I am cooking.  When adding Chili powder and Cumin powder to recipes, it is my experience that they take a little cooking time to come to their full  flavor. You can always add more later if you want more of the smokey flavor or more heat!





Sunday, August 12, 2012

What's really important? ....

Diet and Exercise and drinking lots of water are critical to feeling your best... whether you have an illness like Parkinson's Disease or just want to feel and be the best you can be... what you put into your body plays such an important role in being healthy.

Eating a predominantly plant based diet with occasional organic meat, chicken and wild fish, works best for me.  Too much protein interferes with the herb that I take which helps my body to produce the dopamine that it needs to function properly.

Also eliminating sugar from my diet seems to make a big difference on the severity of my symptoms. I was reminded of this recently while talking to someone whose husband was recently diagnosed with PD. Her Doctor recommended eliminating sugar and going on a Vegan Diet!

Books of Interest
Recently I read the "The Coconut Oil Miracle" by Bruce Fife. And after reading about all the benefits of this luscious substance...I've Decided to incorporate it into my diet.  I have been making these wonderful creamy soups with Organic unprocessed Coconut Milk. I have also added Organic Raw virgin Coconut Oil to my diet... the benefits of this delicious oil seem endless.

Recipe
My latest adventuresome recipe sounds kinda strange... I had made cooked greens this week combining Kale and Collards with onion and some spices, but did not eat all of it. And not wanting to waste these delicious greens... I decided to try it out in a soup.

I used the leftover greens, added 1 ripe tomato, a handful of baby carrots, a shake of Turmeric, 1 mild jalapeno pepper,  a little Bernard Jensen's Seasoning and a Tablespoon of Red Miso along with 1 can of Organic Coconut Milk and put it all in my Vita Mix blender.  Voila!!! A wonderful soup. It had a little kick to it from the pepper, but it wasn't overwhelming.  I thought it was great and what a good way to turn leftovers into a delicious meal.

Great connections

Dr. Mercola   An excellent website with links to the most current and breaking health news in the world. 
How we can all help ourselves by making better choices.

Energise for Life awesome website for living an alkaline balanced lifestyle. Free info and recipes!!!

Hope your having an awesome day!!!

Please feel free to make comments and or suggestions....I am always interested in your feedback!



Sunday, August 5, 2012

I am back....

I can't believe I am finally writing on my blog again!  Hooray!!!

The challenge of trying to get access to my blog via my laptop has been challenging, to say the least!

Either my computer isn't working properly or I don't have access to the internet....

Updates!!!

I am still using the Neuroassist protocol with guidance from my Naturopathic Physician, Dr. Dana Keaton of Phoenix, AZ. 

It's always a challenge... my body is constantly adapting to the regime and I am continually having to change dosages of Mucuna and Amino Acids.  Fortunately, I am still able to find several hours of relief each day from my symptoms. ie:  tremors and muscle spasms/contractions in hands, arms, legs and feet.
It is during these few hours of  relief time that I do my shopping, housekeeping, cooking, reading, writing and exercise. Some days are better than other's... I just try to appreciate this time and do things that I like to do.

Food does play a huge role in how my body reacts to Mucuna Pruriens.  I have actually discovered that the Mucuna works best if I don't eat anything prior to taking it. (waiting at least 30-60 minutes before eating anything)... and not taking it with the D5 or Cys replete.  This seems to cause the least stomach issues for me.

I am still trying to use Food Combining principles when making choices for what I eat.... trying to get my body more alkaline.

Today I made this delicious soup. I think that I have to call it "Heaven in a bowl".... it is probably one of the best soups I have ever made... and it is so simple!


1/2 red onion - chopped
2 red potatoes  - peeled and chopped
1 sweet potato  -  peeled and chopped
6 small baby carrots - chopped
4 cherry tomatoes - cut in half
1 sundried tomato
1 cup spring water

Simmer all of the above ingredients until tender,  Using a vita mix blender or any high powered blender, add small batches of soup to blender and puree until smooth. Add 1 can of Organic Thai  Kitchen brand coconut milk to the soup in the blender and 1 T. red miso and continue to blend til all is blended well.
That's it! It is ready to eat and enjoy!

 Please let me know if you try this and what you think of this simple to make soup.  I thought it was awesome!!!











Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Surprising health benefits .

Continuing my journey .... How my body is affected by the food I eat.


This week I have been introduced to '"Fermented foods" . I chose to try  Raw Sauerkraut. 
I encourage you to click on the highlighted words above and read about the positive effects that fermented foods can have on restoring ""gut health".
I did a little  research on gut health and how it affects your overall health... click the link above, you may be surprised how it is all interconnected.

...You will remember that I have been struggling with 'stomach" issues... bloating, pain, indigestion, burping/gas and vomiting. All the signs of poor "gut health".  I tried probiotics and enzymes... neither did anything to help my stomach issues.... actually, I think they may have made it worse at times.

I have decided to look at traditional old fashioned food that helped people with digestive issues in the past. I came upon eating fermented sauerkraut... not the kind you buy in the grocery store, it is processed and does not have the beneficial healthy bacteria/enzymes that Raw Sauerkraut contains.  I started eating it this week... so I will let you know if it has a positive effect on my stomach problems.

Coconuts
Since starting on this 75% raw food journey... I have been enjoying many types of smoothies.
Coconuts- the meat and the milk have become a favorite add in to many of my smoothies... of course I am always interested in the health benefits of what I am putting into my body... so here is a look at why Coconuts, including coconut oil are a good addition to my diet. I found this article very interesting, as it pertains to the reason why middle chain triglycerides, may have health benefits . If you click on this link  health benefits it gives more positive insight as to why they are a good addition to my diet and how to use them in everyday recipes.

Smoothie
Coconut Milk from 1 Coconut
2 frozen bananas
3 soaked dates
1-2 T cacao powder unsweetened
1/2 C almond milk
1 ripe avocado
agave to taste

Blend together and enjoy!






Just Sharing
If you are like me and have pain associated with Parkinson's Disease... I find using Castor oil packs can help to alleviate the inflammation if used on a regular basis.

Castor Oil  Packs
Have you ever heard of or used a Castor Oil Pack?  I have used them for pain and inflammation and they do help.  I take a clean cotton cloth, pour castor oil onto it then place on the area I have pain, put plastic over it, (so oil does not get on anything else)  then place heating pad on to the area and leave it on for about 30 minutes.

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

What have I been eating?

Good question...

I have been eating a wide variety of food over the last 5 1/2 weeks.  I have documented some of the recipes that I thought tasted pretty good and would like to share them with you.

Dinner  last night  
I had some Bok choy and mushrooms and wasn't sure what I was going to do with it... so I googled bok choy and mushrooms and found a recipe that I thought worth making...Ginger-Sesame-Chicken-With-Bok-Choy-Onion-and-Mushrooms-354779
 
This is my version based on what I had on hand-

I sauteed in olive oil til translucent  1/2 onion chopped, 1/2 small Japanese eggplant chopped, and1 large clove garlic, added salt and pepper to taste.
I added 2 T chopped ginger to the above ingredients and sauteed for a few more minutes. I then added the broth recipe(below) and simmered for about 5 more minutes, until it thickened a little. I chopped up the bok choy that I had on hand and placed on top on the veggies and broth... I stirred the bok choy gently, until wilted  into the veggies and broth and served on top of quinoa that I had stuffed into a half of a baked acorn squash. The broth had a slightly sweet flavor from the agave and a tiny heat from the crushed pepper.  Next time I might add more crushed red pepper for a little more heat.  Otherwise it was very good!

Broth
1/2 C beef broth
3 T braggs aminos
2T pinot noir wine
1 T white wine vinegar
1 T agave
1 teas corn starch dissolved in water
1/2 teas peanut oil
3/4 teas crushed red pepper

I usually make enough quinoa at a time so I can use it for a couple of days... whether it be for breakfast with blueberries and raw cashew milk or dinner with some type of vegetable. It seems to be a good staple to have on hand.

Raw cashew milk is another staple I like to keep on hand ... it is a good base for smoothies. All you need to add is frozen bananas and frozen berries with a scoop of good protein powder and you have a good meal or snack.

Friday, November 4, 2011

Changing my focus...

I have been changing my focus over the last month.
I am focusing more on people who inspire me, learning from their journey and trying to incorporate positive things into my life. Learning to enjoy my life, incorporating more exercise, cooking, reading and looking forward to continuing work on my house in Missouri  that my boyfriend and I bought back in 2008. We are restoring a small single story Victorian home (about 1400 sq. ft.)  It needs total restoration. We worked on it for 3 months back in the summer of 2009, but haven't been able to get back there since then. The economy has slowed us down a little. We are hoping to get there next Spring.



I am following the New West Diet and find that their is a tremendous variety of food you can eat... as long as it is not processed, full of chemicals and/or preservatives. I've been buying mostly organic vegetables, and fruits, but if I can't find organic or they are too expensive... I follow the website that posts the 12 most toxic fruits and vegetables and try to avoid these 12 unless they are organic.
My diet over the last month has been primarily 75% raw and 25% cooked.  I like to have my cooked food at dinner... while still staying flexible. If I want something cooked and it's lunchtime I make it for lunch.  I usually eat every 2-3 hours... having snacks in between my meals.

Food 
Last night for dinner. I made Quinoa, I then sauteed some mini portabello mushrooms, onion, eggplant in a little olive oil, seasoned with salt and pepper, added the cooked Quinoa to the pan and continued cooking for a couple of minutes until veggies were tender. I also made a salad with mixed greens, chopped red pepper, organic kalamata olives, heirloom tomatoes and cucumber. Topped with a salad dressing of Olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and a tiny amount of raw agave.  It all tasted really good! 

Snack
This is one of my favorites ... it's taste's like ice cream... only a healthy version!
I take 1 1/2 frozen bananas, 2-3 soaked dates, a litttle organic rice dream or cashew milk, 1 cup raw cashews soaked overnight in water, then drained and rinsed, throw in the blender, add 16 water and blend, strain and you have the milk.  I take the fronzen bananas, dates and milk and put into my bullet express blender. Blend until creamy! Like I said it is one of my favorites... you can add some protein powder if you like... it tastes heavenly.


Lunch
Today I made a raw soup in my Vita mix blender... you have to use a high speed blender in order to get a smooth consistency.
I used 2 carrots, cut in half, 1/2 red pepper, 1 ripe avocado, 1/2 clove garlic, a small amt of yellow onion, chopped, 1/4 cucumber, slices I had leftover, cayenne to taste, cumin to taste, turmeric to taste, salt and pepper to taste and 8 oz of spring water.  Blend until smooth... I like it spicey, so I add a good amount of cayenne powder. It was really good! You can add any type of veggie that you like and add any spices or herbs, or vegetable broth seasoning that you like. It is up to you and your taste buds!

Breakfast
Made fresh juice this morning... red beet, carrots, cucumber, celery, and some mixed greens.  I love fresh juice the morning... it is so refreshing!

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Time to let go

This is my journey... I share it with you.




Inspiration
Meet Cameron Mott
A 9 year old girl has half her brain removed. Today she is back in school.
A decision that no parent should have to make...  Her parents had the ability to know what was right for their daughter. Their story is amazing and incredibly courageous! What an Inspiration!
Brain Power and the ability to heal 
No doubting, it's possible!

Possibilities
Heal yourself.. This is a must read for anyone who wants to get well.
Overcoming Parkinson's  I found this information fascinating.

Mind
The fog is lifting and it is time to "let go".
I do not doubt what my body  is capable of... 
I have always cared way too much what people think of me.
Hiding my tremors, not going out, unless I had them under control, has been a big issue for me. I now realize that for me to heal and be the best me possible... I accept who I am and will not care what others think of me.

Body   No more cover ups
In order to recover, this is my theory.


I need to really "feel" what my body is going through.  If my body is allowed to feel the tremors... it can figure out why it is happening and fix it!  I will allow myself to experience Parkinson symptoms.
Using minimal treatment... I am only taking something to control tremors twice a day. Once late morning or early afternoon and then before bed so I can sleep.
Retraining My Brain
I came across this information late this afternoon, amazingly it seems to substantiate my thought about needing to feel my tremors. I will do more investigation on this topic.
My inner voice is loud and clear. I am listening!

Food
Using the New West Diet as a guideline.    I have been following  a 75% raw and 25% cooked diet now for 4-1/2 weeks. This has been easy ... it just feels right!
I keep it pretty simple. I eat when I am hungry! I drink between 6-8  12 oz. bottles of arrowhead spring water throughout each day.

Dinner last night
Mixed Spring Salad and Spinach greens with fresh organic sliced Strawberries, sliced red onion, chopped red pepper,  and little raw goat cheese sprinkled with slivered almonds. The dressing was 2 T. Olive Oil, 1-2 T. Balsamic Vinegar, Agave to taste and 5 fresh Strawberries blended in my bullet express blender. It was really good!

How I am feeling
I feel more connected to myself. My mind seems clearer.

What I have noticed in the last 4-1/2 weeks... My skin is looking better... the deep lines that use to be on my chest from sun damage are virtually gone. The cellulite, which had taken on a life of it's own over the years... seems to be dissipating from everywhere on my body...  I've lost about 7 lbs. I wasn't really over weight... but had alot of fat stored in my body.
My thoughts
I always felt that the cellulite represented  how toxic my body was... it seemed that the worse my cellulite got it correlated with my health deteriorating. Now that the cellulite is dissipating while detoxing...it seems like their is a correlation. Detox is suppose to clean up your organs... maybe now that they (my organs) are getting cleaned up... they are able to do what they are suppose to do and the toxins are not getting stored in my body. Plus I am eating clean and not adding to the toxic load that my body previously had.

Detox
I have gone through some detox symptoms... the first week I felt spacey and weird. That has gone away... Stomach issues were the biggest problem... but they are getting better as of this week.
The tremors seem to fluctuate... they can go from intense to minimal and continue to fluctuate throughout the day. I do have moments of calmness, they only last a few seconds at a time... it is amazing to see this...My mind feels clearer... I can remember things much better... and I don't feel so disconnected. Probably the biggest thing is my attitude... I am feeling happy and positive and look forward to each new day.
Exercise seems to be easier ... my body seems more limber and flexible. I am also sleeping better.

Thinking Outside the Box 
Earthing The most important health discovery ever? written by Clinton Ober Stephen T. Sinatra, M.D. Martin Zucker .  Discovery- The Earth's energy is powerful. Maybe this is a missing link in my quest for health?!
I am currently reading/studying this book. It makes sense to me. It deserves more investigation.

My hand is tapping on the keys as I type... I feel fortunate to be who I am... I am unique!

I will continue on this journey...following my inner voice... reading, learning, and discerning for myself what my next step will be!

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Is it possible not to have "tremors" after a Parkinson's Diagnosis?

This is my journey... I share it with you.

Sitting here with "tremors" in my left hand and my leg bobbing up and down... I look for Inspiration to believe that "anything" is possible!

My Inspiration   Pat_Rummerfield

Pat Rummerfield,  A young man 21 years old,  in 1974,  was "paralyzed" in a car accident, given less than 72 hours to live,  not only lives...(From Wikipedia) is the first (first, key word here) spinal cord injury (SCI) quadriplegic in history to recover full physical mobility. He has numerous athletic accomplishments, and now works as a motivational speaker.

I became aware of this remarkable man while watching a recent episode of Extreme Home Makeover. Please watch  Pat Rummerfield on Extreme Home Makeover.
He decided not to follow the doctors' orders, and chose intensive rehabilitation. A very personal decision.
He was an inspiration on the show to a young man who had recently become a quadraplegic.
Recovery is possible.
It wasn't easy for Pat Rummerfield... he took his first step after "many years" of intensive rehab.

What this mean's to me?
When "they" tell you, "you will never walk again" or their is "no cure". You can make a difference. It is possible to defy the odds and make a difference.
Pat is living proof!

Thinking outside the Box
Pat Rummerfield was thinking outside the box... he chose his own destiny and refused to let anyone or anything get in his way.

What it takes
It takes Courage, Commitment, Determination and tremendous Patience..... following and listening to your "heart". Convincing your mind and body to go on the journey with you.
"Believing the journey is worthwhile and possible".

Pat Rummerfield's journey
It was his hard work and determination that allowed him to recover from being a quadriplegic.  
Can you imagine how much "work" that was?  He was defying all the odds... defying the "Doctors"... going on an unknown journey. No guarantees! Probably lots of skepticism and much criticism! He listened to his "inner voice". And it paid off!
His intense determination is Miraculous! Miracles do happen... I know it! He proved it!


My Goal

My Goal is to be the best person I can be...Healthier in Mind, Body and Spirit!
Patience, Diet, Exercise, Lifestyle, Commitment, Determination and Positive Affirmations/Visualizations are key in my journey. Listening to my "inner voice" !
Shutting out the skepticism and negativity is imperative!

I can make a difference. 


Knowledge is Power

I think that my body has always talked to me... Sounds crazy, but it's true!
It has guided me on my journey through this life, consistently nudging me in the right direction.
It has directed me to Alternative Health Care when the traditional medicines did not work or affected me negatively.
I trust my instincts... I will follow them... I will listen to my inner voice.

I choose to learn everything I can  to help myself.

Understanding Parkinsons  I read this and actually understood it. I mean really got it!!!  A light bulb went off in my head and it just all made sense to me... It helped me to understand the reason for the tremors and muscle problems that are associated with Parkinson's. And the purpose and thought behind the creation of the traditional drugs prescribed for PD, how they are suppose to work... and why they eventually don't work!

My Personal thought
I cannot relate to or depend on taking a pill with x amount of a man made synthetic substance and think it is going to be a   suitable substitute for what my own body makes consistently on a minute by minute, second by second or every milli second, without having side affects. Too much, too little!? It opens the door to more drugs to counteract the side effects.  Our body is unique to each one of us...How is it that a man made synthetic pill, can mimic each unique person's body chemistry and not cause problems. My common sense says, Impossible! 
.  
It also made sense as to why the Amino Acid program that I had been using, was working and not working. Even though the Amino acids were made from natural sources...  how could they duplicate what my body does every milli second of everyday? Again, ...side effects inevitable.
This made me start to think about other natural ways to get what my body needs to function properly.

Water, Exercise, Food and Supplementation comes to mind...

My body is amazing! More powerful than I think! It knows how to heal itself. It's proven itself time after time.
It needs Water, Nutrients, Exercise, possible Supplementation and certain conditions to promote health.

Water
I don't know about you, but drinking water was never a priority for me, until I read water cure. I now understand that because the body is primarily made up of water, approximately 75% water. Drinking water to maintain my body's proper balance, is essential to my health. Again, after reading this, I just got it!!! No more questions about why water is important to my health. 


Exercise
Exercise makes a huge difference. I see it myself everyday... I can get on my treadmill  or exercise bike and be "shaking all over" (Elvis comes to my mind)  when I get on it... after 15 minutes they start to diminish, after 30 minutes they diminish even more... after 45-60 sometimes they are gone or minimal...  this can last for up to an hour or longer after exercise. The reason... my brain is making chemicals that get released from exercising, powerful chemicals that affect every part of my body and mind....  I have to Exercise everyday. It has proven itself as good as gold, good as taking a drug or natural herb or amino acid in calming my body down.

My Journey
This is were my brain gets going.... if this is possible with exercise... and my body is responding.  Why can't I re-create this feeling with a combination of exercise, food that I eat and some supplementation? After all, my body gets some of the nutrients that help make the chemicals needed to function... from the food I eat and exercise I do everyday.


Food
"You are what you eat".  An old saying, ringing true to me! 

Do the Research
Their is too much information out there regarding "Diet" and how changing what you eat can change your life. I cannot be fooled into thinking that what I am putting in my body doesn't affect my health.




Detoxing, Plant Based Diet, Whole Grains and 2 serving's a week of (lower mercury) Fish 
Eating to sustain my life! Why this makes sense...New West Diet

Supplements
I may need extra help... Healthy food and supplementing DHA, Vitamin D, B12 .  Important for you to Read and Discern for your self.  
I have added a teaspoon of cod liver oil to my diet per day.   Nordic Cod Fish Oil  
This is my path.  I am unique. 
Remember we are each unique... follow your own path. 


Environmental Factors 
I am sensitive to many smells and chemicals in everyday products. Making it a priority to be more aware of environmentally friendly household products.


My Vision

I have a vision of myself walking on a beach... the sun is shining, the water is turquoise blue. I take a deep breath and smell the salt air, it smells sweet of suntan lotion. I am calm, strong and healthy.  No tremors... No muscle spasm's... No hitch in my step. No pain in my hip.
Just a smile on my face and the sand in my toes.
I am Happy and Healthy.
This is my vision and it is real!

In the Past
I have gotten caught up in the past by Doctors and Neurologists negative "no cure" no matter what you do attitude... I have let them distract me from my inner voice that tells me I can feel better.
I have listened to past employers tell me to "just take the meds".
And you should  look into the "Brain Surgery/DBS".  
I have read negative emails that tell me "food, environment and what you put in your body have no affect on your health".

No More!
I know what is right for me... I am following my gut instincts and listening to my inner voice... the one that is persistently after me to do more research...


I Believe
I believe my mind and body have amazing ability to heal itself.    No quick fix. It takes hard work!

Inspiration
Their are many who made a difference, they chose a different path!
Here is a look at just a few of those who have beaten the odds...

Pat Rummerfield
 Dan Cummings
Guy-Claude Burger 

My Affirmation
I choose to believe!

I will continue my search to become my Best Self.... Exercise and Diet are key!
Research is imperative. I will Learn all I can to help myself... It will pay off... I know it will!

This is my journey... I am a work in progress! I am unique.  I will find my best self possible.

Sharing with you 
You are unique...
Read, learn and discern everything you can, and then live by it ... change is possible!

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

"Water " "using my doctor within" Can I really feel better?

The day starts with one bottle of arrowhead water. I drink this down after shaking a small amount of sea salt into the palm of my hand and popping it into my mouth. I started this routine just recently, it seems to go along with listening to "my doctor within".

For most of you, I am sure this sounds really strange. Believe me, I would be thinking the same thing, "If I hadn't read the website" watercure.com along with the book "Your Body's Many Cries For Water" written by F. Batmanghelidj, M.D.

After reading the information about water and how it sustains life. I decided it made sense to me.  After all, our body's are primarily water.

After all of the "other  things" I have tried, and cost me a fortune. How could I not try this!

I know you have heard it, as much as I have in the past. People are always saying, you should, "drink more water".  I finally understand why this makes sense now.

Our body is primarily made up of water.  According to most of the information about our body composition. The body is about 75% water.  In order to keep the water level up in my body, I need to replenish it daily. After all, we sweat and pee everyday. Right!

I know that my skin is not vibrant and bright... it is dry and getting older by the minute.  All I have to do is look at my legs, to see the flakiness of dry skin. If drinking more water, could make a difference and save me money. If I don't have to purchase all the lotions to soften my legs, arms and body. I am for it!

It it can make me look and feel better!  I am willing to drink up and see what happens! 

If you are interested in really finding out "Why it is Important to start drinking more Water"? I recommend reading, how "water" can make a difference in the way you look and feel.
Here are the informative websites and their recommendations on the amounts of water you should consume daily for maximum benefits.

The journey continue's... I am the only one who can make a difference. Making better food choices, following the "New West Diet"  drinking more water and exercising is critical for me.

Okay, so I have added drinking more water to my daily routine, along with eating better, exercising and choosing a healthier lifestyle.

After drinking my water and doing my morning exercise. I made a delicious smoothie.

I made my own"Almond Milk"  this is really simple. I used 2 Cups of raw almonds, soaked overnight in water, rinsed them thoroughly, then put in my Vita Mix blender and added water. Blended on high about 1-2 minutes.  I poured that into my nut milk bag.  By squeezing out the water, you get the nut milk. I used a big glass bowl to hold the nut milk.  I used some it in the following smoothie recipe.

 1-1/2 C almond milk
 1 T raw agave nectar
 2 T cacao powder
 2 frozen bananas
 1 ripe avocado (why they are so good for you)

I added all of this to my blender, with some ice and water. It was delicious! It tasted like a chocolate shake...you won't believe how good it is!










Please read this DISCLAIMER This site contains information, education and research by a Parkinson's patient, along with URLs book-marked by a Parkinson's patient. Nothing you read in these pages should be considered an endorsement or medical advice.

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Trusting "My Doctor Within"

My Journey continues.... Last Friday I again, made a conscious decision to trust "My Doctor Within"  that means "I have decided to trust my bodies ability to get well".

The last few months have been tough. I have continued to struggle with stomach issues. It seems that every time I try to change and eat healthier I still don't feel good.  Something has to change and the only thing that I can change is what I am putting in my body.


I have been using an alternative protocol to help control my Parkinson's symptoms for over 2 years now... and what I realized is this... "Yes, it has controlled my symptoms to a certain degree", but like drugs, I have had to increase the dosages over time to continue to get the same relief. Causing me lots of stomach distress.

After reviewing all the information that I have gathered during my lifetime and deciding to trust my instincts.  I am going to trust that if "I feed my body live food" and not dead "cooked" food, I may still be able to feel better and get healthier.

The simplest way to accomplish this is "keep it simple"!  Smoothies, Juicing and Salads seem to be the easiest way to do this.   Realizing that my body has specific needs because of the PD symptoms, I have done my research to find out what the Nutritional Content is in Fruits and Veggies and use a wide variety of all of them to create my Smoothies, Juices and Salads. Along with my fruits and veggies I am also eating a wide variety of "Fish" that are not listed on the "High Mercury Content" list. And excluding hydrogenated oils, all processed food, fast food, white sugar and white flour products. I am choosing to eat foods that can really "sustain" my life.

From what I have read, this is called "Eating Clean". This should allow my body to function at its best.  Which is what I am hoping for....

To say that this is difficult is an understatement. All I can say is this, "I am determined to feel better" whatever that "Better" is, has got to be better than how I feel now.

So, last Friday I started my day with fresh juice smoothies and salads. Along with grilled Salmon.

It is now Tuesday and I have stuck with it..... hooray for me!

It wasn't easy, the weekend was tough!

I am decreasing my supplements (aminos and herbs) during this process in hopes that I will eventually be able to eliminate or decrease substantially the amount that I have been taking for the last 2-1/2 years.

I will have to see how I feel with regards to my PD symptoms.... I am hopeful for the best!

Here are a few sample recipes of what I have been eating and drinking.

Smoothie

5 Kale leafs
1 leaf green chard
handful parsley
1 frozen banana
1 pear
add all of the above to your blender along with water and ice, blend to desired consistency

Salad

Spinach
Mushrooms
Broccoli
1/2 Avocado
I also sprinkled a small amt of raw goat cheese, raw sunflower seeds, raw pumpkin seeds on top.
I added some grilled salmon and made a honey mustard salad dressing as follows: 1/2 c. olive oil, 2T Braggs apple cider vinegar, 2 T ground mustard seed, 1 clove garlic, 1 lemon juiced and 2-3T of raw honey to taste. I placed these ingredients in a small blender and blended together for about 1 minute. This is one of my favorite salads, it tastes really good!

If you are interested in listening to your "doctor within"  here are some websites that may help you to understand why and how your body "does" have the ability to make you healthier!

How to find your doctor within      The Doctor Within

This site is full of amazing information...rawfoodlifetodayblog

Video intro on you tube to Food Matters this is probably one of the most important videos you could watch if you want to change your health and how you feel!  

I hope you take the time to do your own research, we really are "what we eat"!

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Pesticides on our fresh produce and vegetables....

Here is a current list of produce and vegetables with rankings for what is safe to buy at the supermarket and what you should be buying organic  food list

It is a comprehensive list showing you what produce and/or vegetables are safe to eat.  If you are concerned about pesticides/chemicals in your food source,  this is an important list to save/print and post in your kitchen. I would make another copy to take with to the grocery store.

 FYI-  I continue to feel better.... still using the goat kefir daily, along with apple cider vinegar/molasses, liquid chlorophyll, raw honey and large quantities of water. Exercising daily.... is key!  I am doing at least 1 hour of walking on the treadmill along with stretching and floor exercises. Lifting light weights-3lbs and also 8 lbs. 

I don't always feel like exercising when I first get going in the morning... but, I make myself do it and the benefits are key to feeling better throughout the day!  I hope you are getting your work outs in too!

Sunday, June 12, 2011

My recipe for Italian beef sandwiches...

Growing up in Chicago, Illinois, Italian roast beef on a nice hard roll with french fries was pretty much a staple in my life.

Here is my cleaned up version; I hope you like it as much as I do....

Using Boars head lunchmeat and cheeses (sticking to the clean, green and lean principles)

I use Boars head Italian beef, purchased at my Fry's deli counter. Sauteeing organic chopped red and green peppers and then adding organic beef  broth to the mixture. Let the peppers cook in the broth until peppers get soft, then add Italian beef(I chopped the beef into smaller bite size pieces) to the broth and peppers. Cook until all is hot and bubbly. Serve on a nice whole grain roll or bread. Serve it open face on one slice of bread with some sweet potato fries or a piece of organic corn on the cobb.  I have to say it is yummy!!!!

Ice tea that is good for you rooibos tea. I discovered this delicious healthy antioxidant caffeine free tea, when I was looking for a source to buy bulk  herbs... it is delicious and makes a great hot or iced tea. Iced, I add a small amount of raw agave and some fresh squeezed lemon. It is my favorite iced tea.  Worth a try!

Feeling a little better...

My stomach seems to be feeling a little better in the last couple of days... I attribute this to the adding of the goat milk kefir and apple cider vinegar to my diet....

I can't deny that simple changes to diet like adding of organic apple cider vinegar, black strap molasses and kefir can make a big difference in how I feel.

I almost forgot to mention something that is really important... My ND has recently added at my request s-acetyl glutathione. I am taking 1 cap 2x per day. Started this one week ago... and already I am feeling a better sense of well being. If your not familiar with glutathione, it is a powerful anti-oxidant and has been proven to be beneficial to patients with Parkinson's Disease.

Changing my routine up.... I am splitting my morning shake up into 2 doses... I drink first half when I get up and the other half about 2 hours later. This seems to allow me have the energy I need to do my morning exercise routine and to take my doses of herbs and aminos per the www.neuroassist.com protocol that I use in conjunction with my Naturopathic Physician, Dr. Dana Keaton of Phoenix, AZ.
Morning shake today consisted of

1 T. noni powder
1 T. wheat grass powder
1 T. flax meal
1 T. acai powder
1 T. beet root powder
1 T. nutritional yeast
1 T. lecithin granules
1 teas cayenne powder
1 teas turmeric powder
1/2 frozen banana
3/4 C goat milk kefir
5 ice cubes
1/2 C water
1 Scoop Spirutein protein powder

Tasted great!

Friday, June 10, 2011

Hidden reasons why I don't feel good, maybe ... this may apply to you too!

I have gone through my life with a myriad of health problems. Maybe, one of the main reasons is hidden allergies to foods that I have been eating my entire life.

You may be interested in this too!  Our food supply can be a source of major problems for some of us! If you have never watched the video Food Inc. You may want to do so now.... you may be shocked, like I was to find out where and what happens to our food, before we buy it at the grocery store.

I recently added Goat milk kefir to my diet... I was introduced to Goat milk kefir at the local Farmer's Market yesterday. I had heard of kefir, but never really knew what it was or how it could be beneficial  to my diet.  I tasted a bit of the pineapple/mango kefir  and it was great ! After doing a bit of research on the internet, decided that this is a good addition to my diet. Specially to my digestive system... maybe I will see some good results and start to feel better.  I hope so !

Sunday, June 5, 2011

Changing it up again.....feeling awful!

I have been feeling awful!!!

Why?  I don't know for sure... maybe it's just that just raw food doesn't work for my digestive system in combination with all the herbs and amino's that I am taking for PD...

Re-reading Dr. Crinnion's book Clean, Green and Lean.  I think this may be the way for me to go right now.  Emphasizing eating Clean Foods... no pesticides, chemicals or allergens.  

This is my constantly changing journey....  My goal "function and feel better" living with Parkinson's.


I have been nauseous, vomitting and having lots of bloating.... The amino acids and mucuna pruriens are hard enough on my body.  I cannot continue this protocol with a raw diet.... it's just is not working. 

I was so frustrated that on Friday afternoon, I completely blew it, ate a bunch of junk including cheese pizza and chocolate... paid for this on Saturday.  Really bloated and sick!

Back to square one..... even though I feel like giving up....  My spirit will not let me.....

Starting over !!!


I made some Quinoa this morning!!!  Really good tasting...

Started by sauteeing 2 shallots, 1 garlic clove in Olive Oil

when onion was translucent, I added 24 oz. of organic vegetable broth,
when this started to boil I added

1 C Quinoa  (Clean, and it's alkaline)

when rolling boil, I reduced heat and cooked for about 20 minutes, or until all liquid was absorbed, I then added about

1 C mixed organic vegetables

and cooked for another 5 minutes....

The result was awesome... the taste incredible.... I love it!  

Now this I could eat on a regular basis! I will start here and see where I end up .... I have got to start to feel better.......

Thursday, June 2, 2011

It's not just about the food...

Some other things to consider, if you are on a journey to feeling better. Again, these are topics I explored on my website http://www.newfacesofparkinsons.com/ that I published back in 2005.

Exercise has been proven to be very effective in helping people with Parkinson's Disease.

Environmental exposures may have had an impact on you.

Dr. Walter Crinnion's Book- Clean, Green and Lean is a good starting place to learn more about Food and Environmental exposures and how they can affect you.

I personally have no history of Parkinson's Disease in my family... after my own research. I believe that it is a very real possibility that my illness, may be related to many environmental exposures throughout my life.

I know that this is a very controversial subject. We are all entitled to our opinions, and again, this is my opinion! I know their is much disagreement on this topic.

The food, air and water are not what they used to be. We hear stories regularly on these topics!
Just read the headlines... today

Heavy metal exposure from a variety of sources; mercury fillings, vaccinations, contaminated water and of course, air pollution; could all have an effect on your health.

I had a sensitivity to my first vaccinations When I was a child... it made my arm swell and I had a high fever, right after my exposure to the vaccination. Now they say, it could have been from mercury that was in the vaccination.... all speculation. I am not sure!  It just makes me weary and definitely more curious to learn about toxic reactions from exposure to these things.

Still not feeling well and after a Consultation with my Naturopathic Physician yesterday. I am adding some new things to my regime.

Liquid Chlorophyll

Cilantro extract

This is my own personal journey. I am following my own path. Following my gut instincts....

I started the day with 16 oz water:
adding 1 teas. liquid chlorophyll and 5 drops of cilantro extract

Exercise:  30 minutes on the treadmill-
carried 2-3 lb weights (using weights to exercise my arms while walking)
and had ankle weights on 1-1/2 lbs ea.

mini-trampoline
10 minutes jumping

floor exercise-
sit ups, leg lifts, bicycling, stretching

Breakfast Smoothie

rice milk (organic)
spirutein powder
lecithin granules
nutritional yeast
noni powder
wheatgrass powder
flax seed meal
1/2 frozen banana
1/4 c fresh blueberries (organic)
6 ice cubes
water (bottled arrowhead)

It all seems to be about finding the right balance for my body... it is not an easy path!

All I can say is this, " whenever I feel lost or ready to give up". A "higher power" seems to know what I need...  Listening is key!

Please read this DISCLAIMER
This site
contains  information, education and research by a Parkinson's patient, along with URLs book-marked by a Parkinson's patient.
Nothing you read in these pages should be considered an endorsement or medical
advice.