Be a super Hero with Immunoglobulin

Alright…I know it’s been more than a fortnight since my last entry but Let’s face it, sometimes life takes over and we can’t always engage in the simple joys that make us feel whole.  Luck for myself…and even more so for you… that time has come to an end. So I am back with an exciting new product and I‘ve been using for almost a month. Crack. No…that is a lie. Moving right along…now I know most of you would say I have a flair for the dramatic.as I am in the arts…I would consider this a correct statement…but this new protein I have been on is changing my life. I literally feel like I could lift a car ( ask the girls I lift over my head in a current production of Damn Yankees…there is no hesitation).  I have always been one in the past who is not a big fan of over head lifts, but I’m currently doing 4 a show times 6 shows a week, 24 lifts a week over the head. And..as you can see, it has not hurt my math capabilities.  And I feel great. Ok, enough bullshit…I know your now chomping at the bit for me to name this wonder tonic…well since you ask so politely…I’ll say it: Immunoglobulin protein. Now one time really slowly  Imm-uno-glob-ulin ......

Let’s get technical baby! So Immunoglobulin are antibodies – proteins that your immune system uses to fight against intruding viruses and bacteria. Over 60 clinical studies have been published on the therapeutic effects of Immunoglobulin.

Check this article from the journal of American medicine:

http://www.pharmialabs.com/pdf/occidente/es/pharmiamuscle/bovine.pdf

This type of protein is a relatively new advancement in the market of protein supplementation and as always there is one company leading the way! www.lifehealthsecrets.com they offer many wonderful products containing the immunoglobulin protein but my favorite and the most beneficial for professional; athletes…is the I .N. Extreme Energy™ (formerly called Protein Extreme Energy -)

It’s an all-natural supplement for high performance athletes that provide the cellular energy and fast recovery you need to excel, time and time again. I.N. Extreme Energy works to cleanse and recharge your cells. Healthy cells are the foundation to a healthy body, and translate into more everyday energy, better sports performance and faster recovery. While the results are immediate, the benefits of taking I.N. Extreme Energy are enduring, keeping you energized and healthy for long-term success.

This next bit is taken directly from the web site…but I could not say it any better than they could!

Energize, Fortify, Protect and Cleanse your Cells with I.N. Extreme Energy

I.N. Extreme Energy is designed to promote healthy cells through at least four channels:

1. Energize your cells by building your electron transfer system and the fuel for cellular energy

2. Fortify your cells by countering free radical damage and destructive molecules that can lead to muscle fatigue, DNA damage and lower energy production.

3. Protect your cells by supporting a healthy inflammatory response and stem chronic inflammation that can damage cell and joint function.

4. Cleanse your cells by unclogging cellular receptor sites at the ’docking stations’ where cells receive nutrients, which can get easily overloaded and harm cell function.

“It provides two and one-half times the Immunoglobulin G (IgG) found in colostrum, and fifteen times that found in whey isolate. IgG responds against pro-inflammatory cytokines, binding to pathogens and protecting the body from their effects. It has been shown to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines by up to 95%, resulting in significant improvement in colon health and a systemic reduction of whole body inflammation. This is especially significant when you consider that 75% of the diseases linked to aging are caused by inflammation initiated in the colon.

Insulin Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) is structurally similar on a molecular level to insulin, and has an anabolic effect in the human body, improving lean muscle mass. IGF-1 has been shown to activate pathways that stimulate cell growth and multiplication, inhibit cell death and regulate cellular DNA synthesis. It also increases the transport of amino acids into muscle cells throughout the body. According to a 2007 study from the Netherlands of 376 men between the ages of 73 and 94 years, those with higher levels of IGF-1 lived longer and had a lower risk of cardiovascular complications.

Transforming growth factor-beta (TGFB) is anti-inflammatory, and is an important regulator of the immune system.

As a protein source, our immunoglobulins are slowly released in the body after ingestion, preventing the kidney stress often associated with other proteins.

Overall, immunoglobulins have also been shown to help improve liver function, leading to a reduction in LDL (bad) cholesterol. A recent study found that men and women with moderately high cholesterol, 210 to 270 total count, had a 6% drop in total cholesterol after just three weeks of taking an immunoglobulin supplement. More importantly, LDL cholesterol, or the "bad" cholesterol most closely associated with heart disease, decreased by 7% while HDL, the "good" cholesterol, remained constant.

What I’ve felt:

Increased strength and physical agility in a little over a month. A more intense sound nights sleep. A better ability to focus throughout the day. Quicker recovery time from hard training days and an over feeling of good health!

Dosing:

This specific product is packed with anti-inflammatory elements such as turmeric, royal jelly, mushrooms caps, and coconut oil...all specifically balanced to heal your insides, and let your body then in turn heal itself. So it is in a perfect state as is....don't add fruit or milk or anything else...and please taking it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Give yourself about 20 mins. before eating anything else!

p.s. I recommend the coco flavor as opposed to vanilla!  

As always I am not a medical doctor…though I have played on onstage. These recommendations are purely that and please consult a physician before embarking on any extreme change in diet or exercise regime!

Enzymes for a better life!

Hi Kids, it’s been a few weeks but I’m back and with some great new information. Traveling around the globe you tend to meet some great people and collect some even better Health tips. When I go out of town and am newly united with a new group of actors (yes…I perform musical theater) I’m quick to ask people to reveal their secret health tips and miracle cures. Whether it’s passed down from a great aunt or a grandmother or a newly found trend that seems to really work for them, I always listen with a special intensity.  I’ve found that health information from the front lines is the absolute best; it’s real, practical and not motivated by a drug company. So, back to my new find! I have recently come across a wonderfully talented Broadway performer who loves life after supplementing with Proteolytic enzymes. Cutting straight to the case, a Definition for you, Proteolytic enzymes (proteases) help you digest the proteins in food. Although your body produces these enzymes in the pancreas, certain foods also contain proteolytic enzymes. Papaya and pineapple are two of the richest plant sources, as attested by their traditional use as natural "tenderizers" for meat. That’s as simple as I can explain it. We’ll Freddie, “doesn’t my body already do this?” And I would say,” Yes, yes it does…but over time our bodies ability to break down food lessens, we absorb fewer nutrients that are required for proper cellular regeneration and in turn, great energy is required to make the same machine run. It’s a vicious cycle. So I began to read about this supplement….and as I said before, I will not recommend something until I try it.  So, as I’m ordering my bottle of Proteolytic enzymes I keep coming upon its use in sports medicine, which really starts to spark my interest. (You know how I love the games)  I did some digging…here is what I found!

Enzyme use in the OLYMPICS

Was anyone on board with me in watching the last winter Olympics in February? (It’s no secret that if you caught my facebook status it’s one of my favorite sporting events of all time.) Now if you happened to watch the NBC special coverage, documenting the athletes training video’s you’ll see that most contestants lifted weights at least 2 hours a day, ran over an hour of cardio in the am and pm, and then trained in their individual event for up to anther 6 hours.  I remember seeing this and wonder how their bodies were not breaking down. W.T.F?  In fact, quite the opposite was happening…they were getting stronger.  I dug deeper…Well it just so happens almost every athlete on that Olympic team was supplementing with some type of digestive enzyme.  The therapeutic effectiveness of enzymes is well understood in sports medicine.  Do you know that millions and millions of enzyme capsules are sent to the Olympic training camp for both the German and Austrian teams to aid the athletes in stamina and quick healing…. it would appear the proof is in the pudding. Proteases are also of interest because of their ability to support, enhance, and regulate the circulatory and immune systems – factors that help optimize workouts and muscle maintenance.

During training, the risk of muscle injury and deterioration is possible…in fact when you life heavy weight your essentially making micro tears in the muscle, which then repair themselves, and thus the muscle grows larger.  One issue is when proper recovery time is not taken or sufficient nutrients are not available for fuel, injuries happen.   People get sore and take Advil or a few Tylenol… the issue with some pain relievers is that they may not actually decrease the inflammation or promote healing. By lessening the pain response, you may simply not feel the pain, but risk re-injuring the muscle again before it has adequately recovered. Sports injuries are often treated with protease enzymes because of their ability to effectively reduce inflammation and at the same time speed the real healing of bruises, swelling, and other injuries. “A study conducted by Dr. M.W. Kliene in 1990 on the effectiveness of proteolytic enzymes in 100 athletes reported a 'good' success rate in 76 percent of those that took enzymes compared to only 14 percent of the placebo subjects.”

How and why enzymes work?

When your body is aided in enzyme supplementation for food breakdown, suddenly your body can put energy into other uses…like muscle building and stamina. Your body does not need to put its own raw materials and energy into digestion or producing the needed enzymes. Getting a boost in overall energy is a characteristic 'side-effect' of starting enzymes. Natural enzyme production decreases with age so digestive enzymes are suggested for anyone over 35 years of age as general rule.  Supplementing with plant-based enzymes is preferable over animal derived ones when possible. Pancreatic enzymes are destroyed by the stomach acid and must be protected (enterically coated) to reach the small intestine. Once in the small intestine they are released and begin the work of food breakdown. Plant enzymes are much more stable at different pH levels and temperatures. They are perfectly happy in the acidic stomach environment and begin food breakdown there. Food can be digesting for a good 60 minutes or more in the stomach before the food passes to the intestines (where plant enzymes continue working). Since nutrients are absorbed in the intestines, not in the stomach, this prolonged enzyme activity greatly enhances digestion. Nutrients are ready to be absorbed when they enter the intestines instead of waiting for food breakdown to start. Metabolism is optimized and your body's resources and energy are free for other tasks, such as muscle building or burning fat. Who wouldn’t want this???

Eating every 3-4 hours along with plant enzymes may enhance this steadier uptake of nutrients, essentially setting-up a natural 'time-released' system. It is an effective way to get the most out of whole foods or supplements. “Research shows that nutrition from whole food sources is preferable and better utilized by the body than synthetic counterparts. Whole foods are 'packaged' by nature for optimal use when eaten and science has yet to duplicate this. “

What is an enzyme?

Enzymes are proteins produced by all living organisms, and, like all proteins, they consist of amino acids. What makes enzyme proteins different is how they behave in the body. By definition= enzymes are catalysts that make many essential biochemical reactions ‘happen’ without being used up or chemically altered in the process. “As a catalyst, they help a chemical reaction take place quickly and efficiently. Eventually, the enzyme will wear out and the body uses the component amino acids as they would any amino acid resource.” Another way to get enzymes is by eating a raw food diet….now; unfortunately many of us do not have the luxury of doing this.  In the early hunter/gatherer way of living we had a wide array of natural enzymes being consumed on a regular basis. But the modern day food preparation, preservatives combined in our food and the good old microwave destroys many of these that are naturally occurring!

Studies and enzymes in the News

(1)  Enzymes tend to have the net effect of regulating body fat into an appropriate range for the individual. As long ago as 1932, *Sansum published results on weight from a number of cases at the Potter Metabolic Clinic. Of 197 individuals who were underweight, 91 percent improved by gaining weight with enzymes. Of 29 individuals who were overweight, 93 percent improved by losing weight. Of the 54 individuals who started at an appropriate normal weight, 100 percent (all of them) remained at a constant weight.

(2)  http://www.dr-gonzalez.com/clinical_pearls.htm

Proteolytic detoxification and cancer prevention study

(3)  http://www.chiroweb.com/mpacms/dc/article.php?id=44610 

(4)  http://www.articleant.com/gen/13372-school-of-medicine-researchers-learn-more-about-a-key-enzyme-inv.html

Dosing

Suggested Use: Take 2 capsules, 2-3 times per day at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.  May be taken before and after strenuous exercise to speed recovery. More may be taken as needed. 

My summary paragraph has to be one of praise. I have personally taken this supplement for a little less than a month and I have to say I feel great. My energy is up, I feel stronger and my mind is sharper.  I’ve been putting up much stronger weight in the gym and running a faster mile with far less fatigue.  I have noticed my hearing has been very sensitive…a common side effect which is supposed to regulate.  And my dreams have been incredibly vivid, which as an artist I have kind of enjoyed. For my new product rating I give proteolytic enzymes an 8.5 out of ten and I plan to update this blog in 2 months once more time has passed!

As always here's my suggestion for one of the best in the market. It's the brand that I have chosen.

**Please remember that I am neither a doctor, nor a scientist - just a health geek that reads a lot and comes to my own conclusions, so take what I say with a good dose of skepticism, just as I think one should of what anyone tells you, including your doctor and your government. Do your own research and make up your own mind about what feels right for you.

Quercetin.....rev up those engines!

I’d like to begin this issue with a big thank you to everyone who has written or called or spoken to me in person about this blog.  It was my new year’s resolution to do something selfless for someone every day, and your positive reinforcement has only fueled my drive to supply my friends out there with quality information to make their lives better, longer and of greater quality…that being said, let’s get to the good stuff!

Well, what is the word of the day? Quercetin, that’s right…let’s say it one more time Quercetin! It is part of the coloring found in the skins of apples and red onions. It has been isolated and has been sold as a dietary supplement for years but as of late this dietary supplement has gained new buzz because of it’s use in Lance Armstrong’s new supper energy supplement product FRS, you’ve probably seen a commercial for it the last few months, but your about to see more…. let’s break it down!

Quercetin is a bioflavonoid (a bioflav. Is a fancy term for the color of a pigment in fruit that is very health for you!) Quercetin is a natural antioxidant found mainly in red wine grapefruit, onions, apples and black tea.

Quercetin protects cells in the body from damage by free radicals. Quercetin might help protect against heart attacks as well as strokes.

Quercetin may also help prevent immune cells from releasing histamine, the chemical that initiates the itching, sneezing, and swelling of an allergic reaction. Thus, quercetin is often recommended as a treatment for allergies such as hay fever, hives, eczema and asthma.

My personal experience has in fact been very positive. I have always been allergic to dust and really been affected by cats…. little fuckers.  I’ve taken Quercetin mixed with vitamin C, (it makes it more bio-available) and I haven’t had a scratchy throat when cleaning my apt. and I slept in the same bed as my brother cat, Stephen, and felt only a mild sniffle, where as in the past I would have been d-y-i-n-g.  Please note as always, while I have played a medical doctor onstage, (see resume- www.freddiekimmel.com) in real life, I am not one, and my recommendations are purely that…recommendations. But, I will say… I love it.  Also I have noticed an addition endurance factor at the gym and in dance class.  Hence I give it four stars out of four! Here’s some data to back up the hype pigglet’s! 

BENEFITS OF QUERCETIN; RESEARCH FINDS

ALLERGY -Asthma incidence was lower at higher quercetin intakes. The flavanoid quercetin addresses the inflammatory component of asthma. Studies have shown that quercetin prevents certain immune cells from releasing histamine. Histamine is a chemical that triggers an allergic reaction. [1-4]  

INFLAMMATION -One small double blind, placebo-controlled study has found preliminary evidence that quercetin might help prostatitis, an inflammation or infection of the prostate gland. Another small double-blind placebo-controlled trial showed quercetin

Supplementation reduced symptoms of interstitial cystitis [6]

ENDURANCE- a study by researchers at the University of South Carolina’s Arnold School of Public Health shows the powerful antioxidant/anti-inflammatory compound found in fruits and vegetables significantly boosts endurance capacity and maximal oxygen capacity (VO2max) in healthy, active but untrained men and women. (For the study, funded in part by the U.S. Department of Defense, 12 participants were randomly assigned to one of two treatments. Half were given 500 mg of quercetin twice a day in Tang for seven days. The other subjects drank Tang with placebos. After the seven days of treatment, during which the subjects were told not to alter their physical activity, the participants rode stationary bicycles to the point of fatigue.

Researchers also tested their additional VO2max, one of the most important measures of fitness. Then the participants received the opposite treatment for another seven days before riding the bicycle to the point of fatigue and VO2max tests. Neither the participants nor the research staff knew who received the quercetin Tang or the placebo Tang, and all subjects took part in the quercetin and placebo treatments.

“The participants were healthy, relatively active, college-age students, but they were not physically trained athletes, and they were not taking part in a regular exercise training program,” he said.

The results: After taking quercetin for only seven days, the participants had a 13.2 percent increase in endurance and a 3.9 percent increase in VO2max.)

This is why I so recommend trying this, especially for dancers…. and it’s very cheap…in it’s pure form!

Dosing/ Instructions

General supplementation for adults is 100 to 250 mg three times per day. I personally take 500 mg 2 times a day in  capsule form, also I take a brand that includes vitamin C, and like I said before, it just helps your body absorb the supplement better!

Live long and prosper!

Here Fishy, Fishy ....Oil!

          Hey, how are you? I’m feeling great..... You wanna know why? Well, there are three reasons actually…Number 1.  I went to the gym today and did a killer back workout…(insert shit eating grin)  Number 2.   I ate about four square meals consisting of  organic vegetables, complex carbs and protein! And most importantly….Number 3.  I’ve just taken my second daily teaspoon of arctic fish Oil!  Ladies and Gentlemen I know It’s hard to believe that week after week I can recommend A supplement more fantastic than the next, but this week I feel I’ve got to put the Golden Stamp, Four star, Seal of Approval on any kind of fish oil you can add to your diet……Here's why.

Fish Oil is time tested and Mother-nature approved…. it's a very effective nutrient because it contains two of the most important omega 3 fatty acids that can be absorbed easily. EPA and DHA which play a crucial role in  the development of normal brain function....but hold the phone…how many of you have heard the term Omega 3, and read it, passed it over, and then said to yourself," what the fuck is an omega three?"…..well here we go kids…

“Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are fatty acids that cannot be constructed within the human body and therefore must be obtained from the diet. EFAs are significant, and are termed essential, because they are required for our bodies' biological processes, and not just for fuel.

There are are two families of EFAs: omega-3s, and omega-6s. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for cell membrane fluidity and neuronal signal transduction.

The most widely available source of omega-3s is cold water oily fish such as wild salmon, herring, mackerel, anchovies and sardines.

There are about 7 major benefits supported by scientific data. Here is the veritable laundry list of positives your body can expect as well as some links to supported double blind studies:

http://www.imakenews.com/vitalchoiceseafood/e_article000396928.cfm?x=b3B8T9N,b1WDcdgD,w

http://circ.ahajournals.org/cgi/content/full/106/21/2747   (American Heart association)

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/08/31/health/31iht-fishoil31.15772043.html

(New York Times)




1. Less Pain and Inflammation. Omega 3 fatty acids, particularly EPA, have a very positive effect on your inflammatory response. Through several mechanisms, they regulate your body's inflammation cycle, which prevents and relieves painful conditions like arthritis, prostatitis, cystitis and anything else ending in "itis."

2. Cardiovascular Health. Omega 3 fatty acids have also been proven to work wonders for your heart and the miles and miles of arteries and veins that make up your cardiovascular system. They help to lower cholesterol, triglycerides, LDLs and blood pressure, while at the same time increasing good HDL cholesterol. This adds years to your life expectancy.

3. Protection from Stroke and Heart Attack. When plaque builds up on arterial walls and then breaks loose, it causes what's known as a thrombosis, which is a fancy way of saying clot. If a clot gets stuck in the brain, it causes a stroke and when it plugs an artery, it causes a heart attack. Research shows omega 3 fatty acids break up clots before they can cause any damage.

4. Better Brain Function and Higher Intelligence. Pregnant and nursing mothers can have a great impact on the intelligence and happiness of their babies by supplementing with fish oil. For adults, omega 3 improves memory, recall, reasoning and focus. You'll swear you're getting younger and smarter. See the first link I posted which links this miracle oil to improved behavioral problems in children with ADD! All you moms out there can clearly benefit with a more docile, well mannered brat…..(please, at least when they are throwing tantrums behind me on the escalator in the mall)

5. Less Depression and Psychosis. Making you smarter is not all omega 3 does for your brain. Psychiatry department researchers at the University of Sheffield, along with many other research studies, found that omega 3 fish oil supplements "alleviate" the symptoms of depression, bipolar and psychosis (Journal of Affective Disorder Vol. 48(2-3);149-55).

http://www.webmd.com/depression/features/fish-oil-to-treat-depression  I’ve come across this more than once…..If your feeling blue, try a teaspoon 2x a day and you may be able to counter act depression.

6. Lower Incidence of Childhood Disorders. Just to show how fish oil fatty acids leave nobody out, studies show that children (and adults) with ADD and ADHD experience a greatly improved quality of life. And those with dyslexia, dyspraxia and compulsive disorders have gotten a new lease on life thanks to omega 3 oils.

7. Reduction of Breast, Colon and Prostate Cancer. And finally, omega 3 fish oil has been shown to help prevent three of the most common forms of cancer – breast, colon and prostate. Science tells us that omega 3s accomplish this in three ways. They stop the alteration from a normal healthy cell to a cancerous mass, inhibiting unwanted cellular growth and causing apoptosis, or cellular death, of cancer cells.

So If you still aren’t sold, Imagine adding a possible ten years to your life....it comes from the earth, it's not pushed by a pharmaceutical l company and it's a cheap alternative to heart surgery....

 Side effects of fish oil

One risk of fish oil omega-3 supplementation may be heavy metal poisoning if the body accumulates heavy metals such as mercury and lead from poorly refined fish oil supplements. The fish oil industry has successfully improved the quality of fish oils on the market. An independent test in 2006 of 42 fish oils on the US market by www.consumerlab.com found that all of the products exceeded safety standards for potential contaminants.

This is good news. It means we can enjoy fish oil benefits without fear of heavy metal poisoning. However, if heavy metals or other contaminants continue to concern you, seek out a reputable brand that provides some guarantee on purity and some information on their refining process.

    

Dosing                        

Try a dose of 1 gram a day. Go up to 2 after a month if you do not feel any benefits.

An interesting feature of the studies outlined above is that many different doses were used - from 1 to 9 grams. Overall, it seems that the lower doses are just as effective. This means you can probably get fish oil benefits from just 1 gram per day. Also I recommend the actual oil as compared to the pile form it tends to be absorbed more efficiently by the body... 

This is best tasting and most affordable Oil I have found. Completely heavy metal free and pretty odorless.

One More Note* Be sure to buy the FISH OIL, not Cod liver oil, which has an unfavorable ratio of vitamin A to vitamin D..... 

       

*Please remember that I am neither a doctor, nor a scientist - just a health geek that reads a lot and comes to my own conclusions, so take what I say with a good dose of skepticism, just as I think one should of what anyone tells you, including your doctor and your government. Do your own research and make up your own mind about what feels right for you.

The Amazing Apple Cider Vinegar

     Alright.....Maybe you have heard of  "Grandpa Joe" Soaking his arthritic finger in apple cider Vinegar or maybe it was your crazy aunt May who toted this ancient cider as a miracle cure for the common cold, well I'm here to fill you in on what I believe to be one of the cheapest of most valuable supplements I have incorporated into my diet in the last 2 years! Obviously many of you, probably all are without a relative with either of these fictional names, but I know many have heard the name "apple cider Vinegar" in some Old wives tale and its potent medical benefits.  As far as the medical community is concerned, ACV has no such properties...well that's true, because why would anyone want you to benefit from a drink that runs at an average cost of 2$ a week!


What is it?! 
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is an effective natural bacteria-fighting agent that contains many vital minerals and trace elements such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, chlorine, sodium, sulfur, copper, iron, silicon and fluorine that are vital for a healthy body.

 "Natural Apple Cider Vinegar is made by crushing fresh, organically grown apples and allowing them to mature in wooden barrels. ..... This boosts the natural fermentation qualities of the crushed apples, which differs from the refined and distilled vinegars found in supermarkets. When the vinegar is mature, it contains a dark, cloudy, web-like bacterial foam called mother, which becomes visible when the rich brownish liquid is held to the light. The mother can be used to add to other vinegar to hasten maturity for making more Apple Cider Vinegar. Natural vinegars that contain the mother have enzymes and minerals that other vinegars in grocery stores may not have due to over-processing, over-heating, and filtration. For this reason, it is recommended that you purchase only Natural Apple Cider Vinegar, with an ideal acidity (pH) level of 5 to 7."(1) Basically what you are looking for , and getting with this specific vinegar is the cloudy like haze in the bottom of the container...it kinda looks like a thunderstorm going on in the glass, but this is what I, and many others believe delivers benefits of this cider! 
Now let's get to the good stuff....what this stuff can deliver!
First I'll write from my own experience... 
When I finished 4 rounds of chemo in 2007 I was experiencing extreme fatigue and pain in both my knees and hands. My body hurt from all the drugs and extreme shock my system was put through in undergoing cancer treatment. Initially my doctor put me on 25 mg of indomethacin 2x a day.  This powerful anti-inflammatory only made matters worse while offering only minimal relief from the pain I was experiencing and could feel myself becoming dependent on a drug that I would probably have to take for the rest of my life.  I remember reaching a moment when this reality simply became .....unacceptable, and I began researching body detoxification options, Natural cleanse, and up popped an article about ACV. I simply walked over to the local health foods store, "westerly market" and bought my first bottle.  Now we all know I'm an actor, and can be dramatic, but with in 4 days I ca n honestly say I felt fifty percent better. I noticed my energy improving, I felt more awake, the pain in my hands and knees subsided and after two weeks I stopped taking my prescription. I have never stopped taking  it, because well, it's vinegar...it's not going to hurt you and the more time goes buy, the  more I read to support my strong and positive reaction to ACV. here's a study I just can across...mostly touting it as a weight loss and fat flush...but   at least the medical community is giving it some notice!

"University East in Mesa suggests that vinegar packs a punch in more than just salad dressings.   Now, instead of merely being touted as a stout cleanser of the body when taken internally, it also has been shown to have beneficial effects towards weight loss and stabilizing blood sugar in non-diabetics. "  In Prevention of Diabetes "Johnston’s study showed it had a stabilizing effect on blood sugar on people who were not diabetic. The stabilizing effect was most pronounced on pre-diabetics whose blood glucose-levels were almost cut in half. In fact, the effectiveness was comparable to that of the diabetic medication" Metformin".    A Swedish research team, led by Elin M. Östman, discovered that the benefits of vinegar can be reaped by other methods as well. Participants in a study ate pickles after a high-carb breakfast and the other participants did not. It was shown that even pickles had a beneficial effect on the blood glucose levels. Other studies soon followed and it was shown that people who take two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar before two meals each day lost an average of a half pound each week. It is speculated that it inhibits carbohydrate absorption.    The chemical suspected of creating this effect is the acetic acid. Due to the cringe-worthy sourness of vinegar, however, many companies have tried to formulate pill forms of vinegar. The effectiveness of the pills are highly questionable in general, though, and people are encouraged to stay with the true vinegar, instead.    An average half pound weekly weight loss would result in an overall average weight loss of 26 pounds in one year. A size-able loss if you can stand the procedure."
Now I'm going to post some of the other supposed benefits of this supplement, I am not a medical doctor although I have played one onstage...ha. ha. ha.
But i do feel the benefits of taking vinegar outweigh the risks...after all, it's vinegar, what do you have to loose!

Weight Loss

While it is not known why, many people claim that ACV. Some theories suggest that ACV helps to speed up the metabolism, while others suggest that it burns calories. A number of nutritionists also believe that combining Vitamin B6 and Lecithin with Apple Cider Vinegar is highly effective for weight loss. A suggested remedy is to mix 2 teaspoons of ACV mixed with a glass of water and drink this before every meal or sip it slowly throughout the day

Bad Breath

Due to its acidic properties, Apple Cider Vinegar makes a wonderful remedy for bad breath or halitosis. Simply add 1/2 tablespoon of ACV into a cup of water and gargle the mixture in your mouth for 10 seconds at a time until the cup is empty.

Body Odor

Apple Cider Vinegar is an effective Body odor remedy, since it can help adjust the skin's pH level which helps to eliminate odor-causing bacteria. For armpit odor, simply wipe them once each morning with undiluted apple cider vinegar (using a cotton ball). For foot odor, fill a pan with warm water and add 1/3 cup of ACV, then let your feet soak in this mixture for 15 minutes once per week.

Cellulite

Many women have found that Apple Cider Vinegar can help reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Stomach Problems

Constipation

Apple Cider Vinegar is frequently used as a natural cure for constipation.

Diarrhea

There are various causes for diarrhea, and although it should not be left untreated, it is often a natural way for the body to rid itself of harmful compounds and ingested materials. Apple Cider Vinegar is a fantastic natural remedy for diarrhea since the high pectin concentration acts as a protective coating which soothes the irritated lining of the colon. A suggestion is to add 2 tablespoons of Apple Cider Vinegar to a large glass of water, and drink this 3 times daily while the symptoms persist.

Major Illnesses

Diabetes

Apple Cider Vinegar may help to control high blood sugar levels, which is why it is often used as a natural treatment for Diabetes. Visit our Diabetes Remedies page to learn more about how ACV can be used to treat this condition.

What are the Side Effects of Apple Cider Vinegar?

There are no major known side effects of Apple Cider Vinegar when used in moderation. However, drinking vinegars, acids or even lemon juices on a regular basis can lead to a deterioration of dental enamel. This can give your teeth a yellowish look and make them more sensitive to heat and cold. To prevent this, the vinegar should always be diluted with water or a pinch of baking soda should be added in order to reduce the acidity level.
 Finally, I recommend buying the gallon...it will last long..i mean months and months and it's a better value, but if you wanna try the smaller size here's the 32-oz. option. 


Directions: Now I've mentioned it a few times but i use about 2 tablespoons in about 8 oz. of water.  Once in the morning and once at night. You can also add a table spoon of honey to cut the taste. I also drink it with a straw with is better for your teeth as the acidity can be bad for your teeth. Bur brushing them afterwards will give you the same benefit! As always enjoy and I hope you take the time to do something good for your body today!


P.s. Don't buy the  ACV vinegar pills from the vitamin store...they are proven to not work as good!

The Miracle of MSM

Alright here we go kids! It's time for the doctor to speak, I've talking about writing this thing for weeks and I'm finally going to do it, even though the Cardnial/Saints game in on the T.V......I just feel this is more important! ( that's right...I do musical theater, but I still enjoy football...it happens).  
Like I said in my little blog description since I was diagnosed with cancer in 2006 I have completely over hauled my eating habits, workout regime and vitamin intake. I've learned a lot and I think the best thing I can do is share some of the valuable info with my friends!
First product I'm going to whole heartedly endorse is MSM...which stands for Methylsulfonylmethane.  If your looking for a basic description of what it is...it's a type of Sulfur.  For those of you who are still wanting more info...let's take a look at what this miracle powder does. Methylsulfonylmethane is a relatively new dietary supplement form of sulfur that is found in our living tissues. MSM supports healthy connective tissues like tendons, ligaments, and muscle. Thus, it is important in conditions such as arthritis, muscle pains, bursitis, etc. MSM should be considered an integral part of any health care practice because of its physiological action, indirect importance, and current / future uses.
Now I can guarantee if you walk into a doctors office and say your in pain, or your shoulder hurts, or your back is sore your general practitioner are gonna prescribe your an over the counter anti -inflammatory or something much more severe.  These med's such as advil, naproxen, and even tylenol tear apart your stomach and actually hinder your bodies natural ability to heal itself.  MSM on the other hand..........has a unique action on body tissues. It decreases the pressure inside the cell. In removing fluids and toxins, sulfur affects the cell membrane. MSM is an organic form of sulfur, whereas sulfites in foodstuffs are inorganic. AS human beings  we have "sulfur is present in all cells" and is in the form of "organic compounds throughout the body.
I have recommended this supplement to many an achy dancer in the last year and have had some friends with some really great results. A gymnast with a partial tear in his MCL, a former ballet company dancer with some knee issues , and one of my best friends who needed some reconstructive surgery after a bad motorcycle accident.....All experiencing great pain relief and a return to more strenuous physical activity.
Usage: Best to start with between 500 mg daily. This for about one week and then rise to 1000 mg daily and take this for a week. Go on like this for several weeks adding 500 mg at one time, until you are taking 10 grams daily. This will  makes up for the years of deficiency that your body has experienced. Then reduce the amount to a maintenance level for whatever works for you. This is a balance between addressing what you want to address and being able to sleep as well as you would like at night. For most people the maintenance level is between 1 and 2 teaspoons (4000 to 8000 mg) per day. Always drink LOTS of water when starting on MSM or when increasing the amount you are taking.  
Detoxing: MSM enables your cells and tissues to release toxins that have built up over the years. Apparently sulfur is a vital part of our waste management system, and if we have not had enough of it our bodies were not able to release some of the waste substances. If you take too much MSM, your body will release too much waste at one time for your kidneys and liver to handle. This waste in your blood stream can cause all kinds of problems ranging from flu-like symptoms to re-experiencing the effects of drugs that you have taken in the past. For example, heavy caffeine users may feel extra-jittery. The key to reducing or eliminating detox symptoms is to start on MSM slowly so that the waste in your tissues is released slowly and to drink lots of water so that the released toxins will be flushed out of your body quickly.  I also advise not to take your second teaspoon of the day after 6pm or it can affect the way you sleep. I know when i started I was up all night, i felt like superman....but I was up all night! So If your needing a natural alternative to over the counter pain meds, and want some extra energy, and want to add a boost your New years resolution of a Health lifestyle......
I'll post two links to cheap options on the internet that your can get way cheaper than the vitamin store! 


















Ohhhhh...so if your going to take the powder it's best in just oj or tomato juice! I just put it in water......Keep in mind there are things that taste better in the world! Best of Luck!