Moments With Mary is dedicated to improving the quality of life to those who have been touched by cancer or other life threatening illnesses.

Disclaimer: The entire contents of this website are based upon the opinions of Mary Johnson, unless otherwise noted. Individual articles are based upon the opinions of the respective author, who retains copyright as marked. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. It is intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from the research and experience of Mary Johnson and her own personal experiences. Mary Johnson encourages you to make your own health care decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care professional. None of the above is meant to diagnose, treat, prescribe or claim to cure any disease. Readers are always advised that they should consult with their own medical practitioners and medical professionals for the diagnoses, care, treatment or cure of any health condition.

Detoxing the body

Think about what toxic build-up can cause? Stomach pain and constipation? Fatigue, gas and bloating? Headaches and indigestion? Weight gain and a large protruding belly? The list goes on its endless. Have you ever heard the saying that Death begins in the colon? Of all the polite topics of conversation, the state of one's intestines is probably at the bottom of most people's lists. Let's face it: Irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, gas, diverticulitis and colon cancer are simply not things we like to discuss. And yet, as the old expression goes, death begins in the colon. You can ask any coroner. Autopsies often reveal colons that are plugged up to 80 percent with waste material." You can Change Your Life for the Better. You can stop suffering in silence from these painful and often embarrassing health conditions by learning how body pollution and a toxic colon can be the cause of so many different ailments.

We are all exposed to thousands of toxins and chemicals on a daily basis at work, in the home, through the air we breathe, our food and water supply, and through the use of pharmaceutical drugs. In addition, we are eating more sugar and processed foods than ever before in human history and regularly abuse our bodies with various stimulants and sedatives. Have you never wondered or cared much about the pollution around us, it's time to change our views and start paying attention to this problem. For decades, scientists have been studying the pollutants in our air, water, food, and soil. The U.S. industries manufacture trillions of pounds of different chemicals a year. They dump billions of pounds of industrial chemicals into our air and water year after year. Now scientists are starting to examine pollution levels in humans and their findings are deeply disturbing. Research clearly proves that our bodies are not capable of eliminating all the different toxins and chemicals we inhale and ingest every day. These toxins just accumulate in our cells (especially fat cells), tissues, blood, and organs (such as the colon, liver and brain) and remain stored for an indefinite length of time causing all kinds of health problems.

Some interesting facts everyone should be aware of;

1. Parasites - have killed more humans than all the wars in history" . "Every living thing has at least one parasite that lives inside or on it, and many, including humans, have far more.

2. Stress Overload/lack of restful, rejuvenating sleep - Stress has a tremendous impact on immune function when it is chronic. Over time, stress alone can contribute greatly to all sorts of body challenges with elimination, digestion and normal function

3. Sugar Consumption - Refined sugar holds waste in the intestines far too long. Excess refined sugar also helps promote an environment in which Candida thrives. I personally feel that the consumption of refined sugar is a major contributing factor in the development of colon cancer and of course, the link to diabetes is well-established

4. Fat Consumption - Oxidized fat (created in every fast food french fry and onion ring we eat) and excess fat consumption overloads the liver and is very hard on the system, in general. Excess fat contributes to the development of heart disease and high cholesterol.

5. Lack of Water Consumption - You may have read differing opinions on how much water the body needs to function normally. Here's my two cents on that subject....the human body is mostly made up of water. It is just common sense to me that the body would function and eliminate wastes best with more water than less. Remember, try to eat a good balanced diet daily and drink your 8 glasses of water.

The information in this newsletter on detoxing that you have just read is purely for educational purposes. It does not replace medical attention for health conditions involving the colon and bowel. Any decision about detoxing that readers might make, based on the contents found in this or any educational health care information is the right and responsibility of the reader. Please consult with your chosen healthcare professional on questions relating to detoxification and colon health.

Salba Seeds

 How many of you know what Salba is and what it can do for us and the body? I have researched this wonder seed and am going to share what I have learned. However, it is up to you to learn more about this seed and its many wonderful health benefits.

You've probably heard a lot lately about Omega 3 fatty acids. Many doctors recommend it to their patients, and even the American Heart Association agrees that Omega 3s can help:

* Promote healthy heart functions...
* Balance cholesterol levels...
* Lower blood pressure...
* Support a healthy cardiovascular system...

Did you know that Salba is among the richest sources of Omega 3 fatty acids of any whole food in the history of nutrition? In fact, gram for gram, these little granules contain 8 times more Omega 3 fatty acids than the equivalent weight of fresh Atlantic salmon. This doesn’t mean to "stop eating salmon." Salmon contains different kinds of Omega 3, including high amounts of DHA and EPA...while Salba's Omega 3s are mainly in the form of alpha linolenic acid. And it's best to have all of these forms.

We have also heard that magnesium is important to our heart and arteries and many of us don't get enough magnesium in our daily diet. But did you know that Salba has 15 times more magnesium than broccoli? Many doctors will tell us to "Get more fiber in our diet." And they’re absolutely correct. The right kind of fiber can help us solve a huge amount of digestive distresses, including: Diarrhea, Constipation, Bowel Discomfort, Cranky Colon, Bloating, and gas. But most high fiber supplements taste like sawdust so many of us often give up on them. Salba is a good source of fiber. Just a little bit each day goes a long, long way and makes your morning cereal, shake or smoothie even more delicious!

We have heard a million times: you need calcium to build strong bones. And the very best way to get it is in calcium rich foods. Yet according to The National Dairy Council, only 25% of us are getting the recommended amount of calcium in our diets. Gram for gram, Salba has 6 times more calcium than milk

I don’t know about you, but as I have gotten older I have noticed some lose to my muscle mass and the tone isn’t as good as it use to be. Even if I spend time exercising, my aging muscles won't stand a chance unless I power them up with plenty of protein every day. But here lies still another problem, because many protein sources can harbor health risks of their own. It is still not known how much red meat is too much … and the same goes for soy. I have found that there is a simple solution for me and again it is, Salba! Not only does Salba contain more protein than soy it's higher quality protein.

I found that the protein in Salba contains all the essential amino acids my body needs. It's efficiently digested and it's not processed with chemicals (like many soy products are). Salba can help me to flush out those nasty free radicals. I call them "nasty" because those free radicals are like little enemies, threatening my good cells. These unstable oxygen molecules are created when cells burn fuel. Our bodies sometime are filled with these nasty free radicals and they become one of the biggest culprits in our aging process.  

The good news is that I can "clean out" these free radicals with compounds called antioxidants. I know most of you have heard that blueberries are a rich source of antioxidants and they are; but did you know gram for gram, Salba has three times the antioxidant capacity of fresh blueberries!

The more I study and learn about this subject, the more I know what I need to do. Salba simply blows away so many of the other super foods that we have always read and heard about. I ask myself, why? One reason Salba is so nutritionally dense. Unlike fruit, berries and vegetables which are mostly air and water...each grain of Salba is like a "neutron star" of nutritional goodies, packed with millions of miracle molecules. So many that you need just 2 tablespoons a day.  

Then of course there are the dieting facts, so many times I have tried to go on a diet or cut out some of my favorite foods but the added pounds stayed with me. I was happy to read during my research that Salba can be a fabulous weight loss aid. Salba like other foods that are rich in fiber expands in the stomach. Result? It makes you feel fuller longer. This is fantastic news for me and maybe for many other dieters. I have been trying to lose weight, could Salba be my new best friend in this area too? 

Salba is so easy to add to your meals. It’s great to stir Salba into my morning oatmeal. It just disappears you never know it's there. But that's just the start of all you can do with this super food. I discovered that I can stir Salba into fruit flavored yogurt, sprinkle it onto my favorite salads, and bake it into breads, brownies, cookies and other treats. And if I grind it in my coffee grinder, it's a fabulous thickener for soups, stews and sauces!  You can even use it as a crispy coating for oven fried chicken! It all works like a charm because Salba has a neutral flavor that seamlessly blends in with other ingredients. Plus, you can stock your pantry without worry of Salba spoiling. In its whole seed form, Salba has a 5 year shelf life, without any need for artificial preservatives. I found that Salba tastes totally neutral and will take on the flavor of whatever it's mixed with. It doesn't give your foods a gritty texture.

Salba's nutritional content leaves flaxseed in the dust. Gram for gram, it's got more Omega 3, more fiber and way more calcium and magnesium. In fact, Salba contains more than 30 nutrients in theirpure form. That's right, in addition to everything detailed above; Salba is also surprisingly rich in vitamins A, B2, B3, B6, C and Thiamin, it has 20 minerals and trace elements, 17 fatty acids and 16 different amino acids. Salba is completely:

* All natural!
* Non allergenic!
* Gluten free!
* Non GMO

Last but not least, Salba is grown under highly controlled conditions in Peru  known for its ideal climate and pristine environment.  This seed of the past has returned to the present to provide a promise for a healthier future. Salba is one of the world’s most nutritious foods, providing a remedy for hunger and malnutrition worldwide.

Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.

Marry a man/woman you love to talk to. As you get older, their conversational skills will be as important as any other.

Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want.

When you say, 'I love you,' mean it.

When you say, 'I'm sorry,' look the person in the eye.

Be engaged at least six months before you get married.

Believe in love at first sight.

Never laugh at anyone's dream. People who don't have dreams don't have much.

Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely.

In disagreements, fight fairly. No name calling.

Don't judge people by their relatives.

Talk slowly but think quickly.

When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask, “Why do you want to know?'

Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk.
               
Say 'God bless you' when you hear someone sneeze.

When you lose, don't lose the lesson.

Remember the three R's: Respect for self; Respect for others; and Responsibility for all your actions.

Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.

When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.

 Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will hear it in your voice.
               
Spend some time alone.
               

FOR SENIOR CITIZENS!!

A row of bottles on my shelf
caused me to analyze myself.

One yellow pill I have to pop
Goes to my heart so it won't stop.

A little white one that I take
goes to my hands so they won't shake.

The blue ones that I use a lot
tell me I'm happy when I'm not.

The purple pill goes to my brain
and tells me that I have no pain.

The capsules tell me not to wheeze
or cough or choke or even sneeze.

The red ones, smallest of them all
go to my blood so I won't fall.

The orange ones, very big and bright
prevent my leg cramps in the night.

Such an array of brilliant pills
helping to cure all kinds of ills.

But what I'd really like to know...........
Is what tells each one where to go!

Author Unknown

What is Endometriosis?

In 1985 I was diagnosed with endometriosis. The doctors had no idea why I was having so much pain during my menstrual cycles. This was rare for me since I had never experienced any pain with my menstrual cycles before my breast cancer or during the two long years of chemotherapy. It wasn’t until I had finished my chemotherapy and started getting back on tract with my regular menstrual cycles that I started hemorrhaging and having all kinds of female problems. The doctors decide I needed to have a complete hysterectomy, while they were performing the surgery they discovered I had a real endometriosis problem. The doctors were shocked when they found I was filled with endometriosis my entire stomach cavity and other organs were all involved. It was a long surgery and I had a long recovery time. I will never forget the pain. However, I must say I am so glad the doctors found the endometriosis problem and was able to correct it before the endometriosis was completely out of hand.

Many of us have never heard the word endometriosis nor do we know what it means. This article is for you. If you are having female problems with lots of bleeding and pain ask your doctor to check and see maybe you might have a problem with endometriosis. Hopefully with this article you will find some helpful information about this subject.

Although endometriosis was first identified in the seventeenth century, it wasn't until the late 1920s that the contemporary theory of its cause was born. According to R.F. Valle (International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics), endometriosis remains "frustrating for both physician and patient. . . Despite 70 years of theories and experimentation, the cause is not clear, and it is likely that more than one mechanism is at work in most patients".

 Endometriosis is non-malignant and occurs when endometrial cells, normally found only on the inside of the uterus (endometrium), become embedded in locations outside the uterus. Endometriosis occurs in 10 to 15 percent of women between the ages of 25 and 44. Over 5.5 million women in the United States and Canada are affected by endometriosis. An estimated 25 to 50 percent of women suffering from infertility also have endometriosis.

 Typically, endometriosis occurs in the organs of the female reproductive system, on the ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus. Other typical sites for endometriosis within the female reproductive system include the vagina, cervix, vulva and ligaments that support the uterus and urinary tract. Information on endometriosis issued by the International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics confirms that endometriosis may also occur outside the pelvis, ovaries, uterus and fallopian tubes. Endometriosis can also be found in the intestines and rectum, appendix, diaphragm, lungs, thigh, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, surgical scars, and musculoskeletal and neural systems.

Endometriosis is thought to occur when fragments of endometrial cells, traveling backwards through the fallopian tubes (retrograde menstruation), become implanted ectopically (in abnormal locations) throughout the female reproductive system, or more rarely, elsewhere in the body. Recent information on endometriosis suggests that the endometrial cells are sometimes carried from the uterus via the lymph or blood systems to distant locations in the body. In other cases, tissue outside the uterus spontaneously morphs into endometrial cells in a process known as metaplasia. While these explanations demonstrate how endometriosis may be occurring in the body, no definitive cause or trigger has been identified.

Heredity is a known risk factor. A woman who has a mother or sister with endometriosis is six times more likely to develop endometriosis, compared with the general population. Other risk factors for endometriosis include: early onset of periods, late pregnancy, hormonal imbalance (higher estrogen levels increase the risk) long, heavy periods, and existing problems of the immune system or the female reproductive system, particularly the fallopian tubes, ovaries and uterus exposure to environmental estrogenic toxins.

The following conditions occur more commonly among women with endometriosis than the general public: gastrointestinal disorders, such as diarrhea, constipation and nausea, retroverted uterus (less common) hypothyroidism, fibromyalgia, autoimmune diseases, asthma and allergies including, sensitivity to certain chemicals, chronic yeast infections, and chronic fatigue syndrome.

If you have any of these symptoms contact your physician and have him or her check you. It may be nothing but when you have several of these problems and they seem to get worse instead of better it is time to be checked.

Did You Know

1 . Budweiser beer conditions the hair.
2. Pam cooking spray will dry finger nail polish
3. Cool whip will condition your hair in 15 minutes
4. Mayonnaise will KILL LICE; it will also condition your hair
5. Elmer's Glue - paint on your face, allow it to dry, peel off and see the dead skin and blackheads if any
6. Shiny Hair - use brewed Lipton Tea
7. Sunburn - empty a large size Nestea into your bath water
8. Minor burn, can use Colgate or Crest toothpaste
9. Burn your tongue? Put sugar on it!
10. Arthritis WD-40 Spray and rub in, kill insect stings too
11. Bee stings - try using meat tenderizer
12. Chigger bite - try using Preparation H
13. Puffy eyes - Preparation H
14. Paper cut - crazy glue or Chap Stick (Surgical glue is used instead of sutures at most hospitals)
15. Stinky feet - Jell-O!
16. Athletes feet - cornstarch
17. Fungus on toenails or fingernails - Vicks vapor rub
18. Kool aid to clean dishwasher pipes. Just put in the detergent section and run a cycle, it will also clean a toilet. 19. Kool Aid can be used as a dye in paint also Kool Aid in Dannon plain yogurt as a finger paint, your kids will love it and it won't hurt them if they eat it!
20. Peanut butter - will get scratches out of CD's! Wipe off with a coffee filter paper
21. Sticking bicycle chains – try using Pam no-stick cooking spray
22. Pam will also remove paint, and grease from your hands!? Keep a can in your garage for your hubby
23. Peanut butter will remove ink from the face of dolls
24. When the doll clothes are hard to put on, sprinkle with corn starch and watch them slide on
25. Heavy dandruff - pour on the vinegar!
26. Body paint - Crisco mixed with food coloring. Heat the Crisco in the microwave, pour in to an empty film container and mix with the food color of your choice!
27. Tie Dye T-shirt - mix a solution of Kool Aid in a container, tie a rubber band around a section of the T-shirt and soak
28. Preserving a newspaper clipping - large bottle of club soda and cup of milk of magnesia , soak for 20 min. And let dry, will last for many years!
29. A Slinky will hold toast and CD's!
30. To keep goggles and glasses from fogging, coat with Colgate toothpaste
31. Wine stains, pour on the Morton salt and watch it absorb into the salt.
32. To remove wax - Take a paper towel and iron it over the wax stain, it will absorb into the towel.
33. Remove labels off glassware etc. Rub with Peanut butter!
34. Baked on food - fill container with water, get a Bounce paper softener and the static from the Bounce towel will cause the baked on food to adhere to it.? Soak overnight. Also; you can use 2 Efferdent tablets, soak overnight!
35. Crayon on the wall - Colgate toothpaste and brush it!
36. Dirty grout - Listerine
37. Stains on clothes - Colgate
38. Grass stains - Karo Syrup
39. Grease Stains - Coca Cola, it will also remove grease stains from the driveway overnight. We know it will take corrosion from car batteries!
40. Fleas in your carpet 20 Mule Team Borax - sprinkle and let stand for 24 hours. Maybe this will work if you get them back again

Let’s see how many of these facts and trivia statements you already knew about Missouri .

Missouri is known as the "Show Me State".  

The 'Show Me State' expression may have begun in 1899 when Congressman Willard Duncan Vandiver stated, "I'm from Missouri and you've got to show me."  

The first successful parachute jump to be made from a moving airplane was made by Captain Berry at St. Louis , in 1912.  

The most destructive tornado on record occurred in Annapolis . In 3 hours, it tore through the town on March 18, 1925 leaving a 980-foot wide trail of demolished buildings, uprooted trees, and overturned cars. It left 823 people dead and almost 3,000 injured.  

At the St. Louis World's Fair in 1904, Richard Blechyden, served tea with ice and invented iced tea.  

Also, at the St. Louis World's Fair in 1904, the ice cream cone was invented. An ice cream vendor ran out of cups and asked a waffle vendor to help by rolling up waffles to hold ice cream.  

Missouri ties with Tennessee as the most neighborly state in the union, bordered by 8 states.  

The state animal is the Mule.  

St. Louis ; is also called, "The Gateway to the West" and "Home of the Blues".  

Warsaw holds the state record for the low temperature of -40 degrees on February 13, 1905 .  

Warsaw holds the state record for the high temperature recorded, 118 degrees on July 14, 1954 .  

State bird--native Bluebird March 30, 1927 . 

State insect--honey bee July 3, 1985 .  

Mozarkite was adopted as the official state rock on July 21, 1967 , by the 74th General Assembly.  

On July 21, 1967 , the mineral galena was adopted as the official mineral of Missouri .  

The crinoid became the state's official fossil on June 16, 1989 , after a group of Lee's Summit school students worked through the legislative process to promote it as a state symbol.  

On June 20, 1955 , the flowering dogwood (Cornus Florida L.) became Missouri 's official tree.  

The "Missouri Waltz" became the state song under an act adopted by the General Assembly on June 30, 1949 . 

The present Capitol completed in 1917 and occupied the following year is the third Capitol in Jefferson City and the sixth in Missouri history. The first seat of state government was housed in the Mansion House, Third and Vine Streets, St. Louis ; the second was in the Missouri Hotel, Maine and Morgan Streets, also in St. Louis . St. Charles was designated as temporary capital of the state in 1821 and remained the seat of government until 1826 when Jefferson City became the permanent capital city.

The first Capitol in Jefferson City burned in 1837 and a second structure completed in 1840 burned when the dome was struck by lightning on February 5, 1911 .  

Kansas City has more miles of boulevards than Paris and more fountains than any city except Rome .  

Kansas City has more miles of freeway per capital than any metro area with more than 1 million residents.  

Jefferson National Expansion Memorial consists of the Gateway Arch, the Museum of Westward Expansion , and St. Louis ' Old Courthouse. During a nationwide competition in 1947-48, architect Eero Saarinen's inspired design for a 630-foot stainless steel arch was chosen as a perfect monument to the spirit of the western pioneers. Construction of the Arch began in 1963 and was completed on October 28, 1965 . The Arch has foundations sunken 60 feet into the ground, and is built to withstand earthquakes and high winds. It sways up to one inch in a 20 mph wind, and is built to sway up to 18 inches.  

Saint Louis University received a formal charter from the state of Missouri in 1832, making it the oldest University west of the Mississippi .  

In 1889, Aunt Jemima pancake flour, invented at St. Joseph , Missouri , was the first self-rising flour for pancakes and the first ready-mix food ever to be introduced commercially.  

The tallest man in documented medical history was Robert Pershing Wadlow from St. Louis . He was 8 feet, 11.1 inches tall.  

Creve Coeur's name means broken heart in French, comes from nearby Creve Coeur Lake . Legend has it that an Indian princess fell in love with a French fur trapper, but the love was not returned. According to the story, she then leapt from a ledge overlooking Creve Coeur Lake ; the lake then formed itself into a broken heart.  

The most powerful earthquake to strike the United States occurred in 1811, centered in New Madrid, Missouri. The quake shook more than one million square miles, and was felt as far as 1,000 miles away.

Anheuser-Busch brewery in St. Louis , Missouri is the largest beer producing plant in the nation.

During Abraham Lincoln's campaign for the presidency, a dyed-in-the-wool Democrat named Valentine Tapley from Pike County , Missouri , swore that he would never shave again if Abe were elected. Tapley kept his word and his chin whiskers went unshorn from November 1860 until he died in 1910, attaining a length of twelve feet six inches.  

President Harry S. Truman was born in Lamar, May 8, 1884 .  

The first train of the Atlantic-Pacific Railway, which became the St.Louis-San Francisco Railway, or "Frisco," arrived in 1870.  

Callaway County was organized on November 25, 1820 and named for Captain James Callaway who was killed in a fight with Indians near Loutre Creek.

Missouri was named after a tribe called Missouri Indians; meaning "town of the large canoes"

Situated within a day’s drive of 50% of the U.S. population,Branson and the Tri-Lakes area serves up to 65,000 visitors daily. Branson has been a "rubber tire" destination with the vast majority of tourists arriving by vehicles, RVs and tour buses. Branson has also become one of America ’s top motor coach vacation destinations with an estimated 4,000 buses arriving each year.  

Charleston holds the Dogwood-Azalea Festival annually on the 3rd weekend of April. " Charleston becomes a blooming wonderland."  

Jefferson City , Missouri , the state's capital, was named for homas Jefferson, the third President of the United States .  

Missouri 's oldest community, Saint Genevieve, was founded as early as 1735.  

In 1812 Missouri was organized as a territory and later admitted the 24th state of the Union on August 10, 1821 .  

In 1865 Missouri became the first slave state to free its slaves.  

Hermann , Missouri is a storybook German village with a rich wine-making and riverboat history that is proudly displayed in area museums. Built in 1836 as the "New Fatherland" for German settlers, the town has achieved national recognition because of its wines and distinctive heritage.  

Auguste Chouteau founded Saint Louis in 1764.  

Laura Elizabeth Ingalls, writer of Little House on the Prairie grew up in Missouri .  

"Madonna of the Trail" monument in Lexington tells the story of the brave women who helped conquer the west and is one of 12 placed in every state crossed by the National Old Trails Road , the route of early settlers from Maryland to California .  

Soybeans bring in the most cash for Missourians as a crop.  

Missouri Day is the third Wednesday in October.   On Sucker Day in Nixa , Missouri , school closes officially and the little town swells to a throng of 15,000 hungry folks. All craving a taste of the much maligned but delicious bottom dweller fish loathed by almost everyone else.

Point of highest elevation: Taum Sauk Mountain , 540 meters (1,772 feet)  

State folk dance: square dance  

State musical instrument: fiddle

How many of these facts did you know? I have lived in Missouri for over 36 years and found many of these facts interesting. Surprisingly enough I didn’t know as much about the state of Missouri as I thought.
 

The Gift - Goji Juice

If you have not yet heard of Goji juice, you are not alone. While it has occupied an important place in traditional Asian medicine for countless generations, the secrets of its nutritional benefits have remained a mystery to most of the world. Did you know that in some remote places in this world, a life expectancy of more than 100 years is not uncommon? The plants grow like bushes with vines that reach over 15 feet. The berries are never touched by hand as they will oxidize and turn black if touched while fresh. They are shaken onto mats, and then dried in the shade. These berries are grown without pesticides or other chemicals in one of the purest places on earth.

Goji Juice has a 3,000-year history in the Chinese and Eastern medical traditions. The Chinese have been growing this alkaline fruit for thousands of years. Goji berries are an extremely nutrient-dense fruit. They contain 18 amino acids (six times higher than bee pollen) including all 8 essential amino acids. They contain 11.7% protein, and 328 calories per 100g! The Goji berry is a deep-red, dried fruit about the same size as a raisin. It's very sweet and tastes something like a cross between a cranberry and a cherry. Some people say they taste more like a cross between a peach and a cherry...

Goji Berries are a very rich source of vitamin C, having 500 times more vitamin C per ounce than oranges, actually almost more than any fruit you could name. They are also a superb source of vitamin A, not surprising because they are a really pretty red color. Goji berries also have vitamins B1, B2, B6, and E; they are becoming a famous antioxidant. They are also a rich source of both selenium and germanium. Working together within the body, this versatile combination helps protect healthy cells, supports immune and nerve function, and helps to stabilize healthy serum glucose levels. Goji Juice you will find that no other juice can compare. Goji Juice can be taken as is, or mixed with your favorite hot or cold beverage.

The bark of Goji berries is generally harvested in the winter season and is then dried to be used for diuretic and purgative purposes. Read more on the Goji berry subject, you will be shocked on all the health benefits this berry offers and what it can do.

Goji Juice has been traditionally used to alleviate the following conditions:

• to strengthen the heart and alleviate heart palpitations
• fights insomnia and forgetfulness
• contains polysaccharides which control the pituitary glands that produce HGH (human growth hormone) which is a powerful anti-aging hormone
• Can be used by pregnant women to alleviate morning sickness.
• Has in clinical trials shown a partial reversal in sexual dysfunction in seniors
• Used to boost the function of the immune system
• Has some anti-cancer properties and has been successfully used to treat hepatitis-B
• Has been used successfully for weight loss
• Helps the body detox, cleans the blood and build the immune system.

Here are some facts about this marvelous fruit:

• They contain 18 amino acids including the 8 essential amino acids.
• They have 21 trace minerals including zinc, calcium, germanium, selenium and phosphorus
• B vitamins
• Has more Beta-carotene than carrots (which converts to vitamin A) and has a complete spectrum of antioxidants.
• Has vitamin E which is almost unheard of in fruits
• Has 500 times more Vitamin C by weight than oranges
• It contains the anti-inflammatory agent beta-sitosterol which lowers cholesterol and takes care of sexual health
• They have essential fatty acids such as omega 6 and linoleic acid that regulate hormones
• Has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties

Benefits of Goji Juice:

It makes the metabolism strong, has good nutritious value and also it affects the life period. Research and analysis results show Goji Berry juice has influenced the growth rate and can contribute towards a long life.

Currently, Goji berry juice has become a product in the market place which is easy to get and without all kinds of hard work. This important juice can be easily used by everyone thanks to the advancement of modern science and technology.

My family enjoys the taste of the Goji juice and its many benefits. Should you decide to try the Goji juice I don’t think you will be disappointed. God Bless and Healthy Blessings.

Berries - Berries – Berries

Did you know that berries are one of the best foods known to man? Berries can repair, protect, and promote wonderful health benefits for your body. Berries can be very powerful in fighting diseases. Some exciting news about berries is their abundant anti-cancer and anti-aging benefits!

Antioxidants fight damage to cells from harmful, reactive molecules called "free radicals." Experts believe this assault on cells may fuel killer diseases such as heart disease and cancer, and even aging itself. Scientists have found berries have some of the highest antioxidant levels of any fruits. Kale and spinach are the only vegetables with oxygen radical absorptive capacity (ORAC) values as high as fresh delicious berries.

Berries also contain many beneficial micronutrients including vitamin C and vitamin E, calcium and folic acid. In addition, berries are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which has been linked to lowered cholesterol levels and reduced risk of colon cancer and has been shown to help regulate postprandial glucose levels. I found it interesting that berries, which are a fruit, though they are not as high in sugars as some fruits, can actually help with blood sugar levels? All berries contain high amounts of soluble fiber (mostly pectin). This has been shown to help lower cholesterol and to prevent bile acid from being transformed into a potentially cancer-causing form. This fiber can be very, very helpful both in relieving diarrhea and constipation.

Since many of the compounds in berries expel antioxidant effects within the body, berries may be useful in preventing many chronic and degenerative conditions, including aging. Much research has been done and concludes that aging is directly linked to unquenched radicals within the body (free radicals). ORAC is an anachronism for Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity. The ORAC numbers for a particular substance or food come from testing which measures the antioxidant capability of foods. Berries, like blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, strawberries and raspberries, possess some of the highest ORAC values among fruits.

Blueberries: Blueberries can help relieve both diarrhea and constipation. In addition to soluble and insoluble fiber, blueberries also contain tannins, which act as astringents in the digestive system to reduce inflammation. Blueberries also promote urinary tract health. Blueberries contain the same compounds found in cranberries that help prevent or eliminate urinary tract infections. In order for bacteria to infect, they must first adhere to the mucosal lining of the urethra and bladder. Components found in cranberry and blueberry juice reduce the ability of E. coli, the bacterium that is the most common cause of urinary tract infections, to adhere. Cranberries: Studies have been conducted to examine the mechanism by which cranberries may benefit the urinary system. It is thought certain phytochemicals in cranberries may prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract, which may inhibit urinary tract infections. Many other studies and research suggest that cranberries may inhibit human breast cancer cell growth, and reduce the risk of gum disease and some stomach ulcers. Studies are under way to see if the high level of antioxidants in cranberries also protect against atherosclerosis. The greatest antioxidant levels are found in fresh cranberries. Processing storage and heating reduce antioxidant levels. Compared with 19 other fruits cranberries have the highest level of the antioxidant phenol.

Strawberries & Blackberries: Strawberries contain the highest levels of the antioxidant vitamin C and ellagic acid. And like blueberries, strawberries are also thought to protect against the decline of the central nervous system in age-related neurodegenerative diseases, and to provide benefits to the aging brain. Strawberries have also been shown to protect against cancer. A study out of Cornell University showed strawberries inhibited the proliferation of HepG (2) liver cancer cells while another study showed isothiocyanates in strawberries inhibited esophageal cancer. Studies also show that blackberries inhibited tumor formation in the oral cavity and inhibited proliferation of colon cancer cells.

Red Raspberries: Red Raspberries are unique in that they have been shown clinically to exhibit antibacterial properties. An Australian study testing the antibacterial ability of raspberry, cranberry, and blackberry concentrates found raspberry inhibited the growth of 12 varieties of bacteria and the yeast Candida albicans. The researchers also shown that the raspberry's antibacterial properties may be useful in water purification or extending shelf life when incorporated into food products.

Tart Cherries: According to research, cherries are a rich source of antioxidants that can help fight cancer and heart disease. Cherries contain compounds that help relieve the pain of arthritis, gout and even headaches. The secret is in the pigments that give cherries their rich red hue. They belong to a class of natural dyes called anthocyanins. The anthocyanins in tart cherries (by research at Michigan State University) were shown to have at least 10 times more active anti-inflammatory compounds than aspirin. The latest research also shows that anthocyanins do a better job of protecting artery walls from plaque buildup and heart disease than vitamin C and Vitamin E.

Since my research, I try to give more berries to the family; it sure can’t hurt them or me.

The Power of Beets 

Facts: Ancient peoples believed that the color of beets was indicative of their power. Folklore mentions that beets were eaten to aid the blood: Greeks used beets to “cool” blood, and Romans used beets to fight fever. Beets were cultivated in prehistoric times for their leaves. The early Romans ate the tops, reserving the roots for medicinal purposes. Beets are one of the few vegetables of which we eat two parts - the root and the leaves. Beets are fa mous for their ability to cleanse the blood. Beets, a root vegetable with edible roots and edible green tops have the highest natural sugar content of any vegetable, as high as 10 percent, but the good news is they are really low in calories. Most of the beets we got as kids came from a can, but you will be hooked on fresh beets once you experience their unique flavor and crisp texture. While canned beets retain almost all of their, sweet natural flavor if they are not pickled, fresh beets have twice the foliate (folic acid) and potassium of canned beets, and if you eat the green tops, beta-carotene, calcium, and iron as well.

What Do Beets Provide Us?

One cup of raw beets is high in carbohydrates and low in fat. It contains phosphorus, sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron, potassium, as well as fiber, vitamins A and C, niacin, folic acid, and biotin. Beets contain folic acid, which is recommended for pregnant women because it may lower the risk of spina bifida and other neural tube defects in newborn infants. Beets (and beet juices) are a blood-building herb that detoxifies blood and renews it with minerals and natural sugars .When these nutrients are captured in a juicing process, they remain in a form that is much easier to assimilate than synthetic nutrients. The iron in beet juice, in particular, is noted for being much more easily assimilated than man-made forms of iron. Beet juice helps build red corpuscles and contains a high-quality iron that is used easily and efficiently, vast numbers of individuals become deficient in iron at some time in their lives, and large segments of the population are chronically deficient. Insufficient intake of iron most often causes iron deficiency. However, it may also result from poor digestion, long-term illness, intestinal bleeding, excessive menstrual bleeding, ulcers, excessive coffee or tea consumption, prolonged use of antacids, strenuous exercise, and heavy perspiration. Disease and science is beginning to justify this use. Beets can be eaten raw, steamed, boiled, juiced or roasted, but no matter how you eat them, they are a delicious and healthy addition to your diet.

Iron Deficiency Symptoms Include; Arthritis, digestive disturbances, fatigue, listlessness, fragile bones, brittle hair and nails, dizziness, nervousness, irritability, pallor, obesity, low tolerance to cold, impaired antibody production, and reduced white blood cells. It may also contribute to high levels of fat in the blood and liver, and may have an effect on learning ability and endurance. In fact, studies indicate that iron supplementation of iron-deficient children improves their ability to learn. Iron utilization may be impaired by rheumatoid arthritis and cancer and these diseases can result in anemia. Iron deficiency is more prevalent in people with candidiasis or those with chronic herpes infections. Excessive amounts of zinc and vitamin E can interfere with iron absorption. If you have an infection, do not take iron supplements because taking extra iron at such times encourages the proliferation of bacteria in the body. Learn to enjoy the taste of beets and get healthy at the same time. Help to clean up your liver and blood. Check out the beet recipes on our web site they taste great.

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers that affect a woman's reproductive organs. Various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, are responsible for most cervical cancer cases. When exposed to HPV, a woman's immune system typically prevents the virus from doing harm. In a small group of women, however, the virus survives for years before it eventually converts some cells on the surface of the cervix into cancer cells. Half of the cervical cancer cases occur in women between ages 35 and 55. If you're a virgin — meaning you haven't had sexual intercourse — you probably don't need a Pap smear. The purpose of a Pap smear is to collect cells from your cervix, which is the lower end of your uterus. The cells collected in a Pap smear can detect if you have cervical cancer or suspicious cells that indicate you may develop cervical cancer.

Signs and symptoms

Early cervical cancer generally produces no signs or symptoms. As the cancer progresses, these signs and symptoms may appear: Vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods or after menopause Watery, bloody vaginal discharge that may be heavy and have a foul odor Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse

Risk factors These factors increase your risk of cervical cancer:

Many sexual partners. The greater your number of sexual partners — and the greater your partner's number of sexual partners — the greater your chance of acquiring HPV.

Early sexual activity. Having sex before age 18 increases your risk of HPV. Immature cells seem to be more susceptible to the precancerous changes that HPV can cause.

Other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). If you have other STDs — such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis or HIV/AIDS — you have a greater chance of also having acquired HPV.

A weak immune system. Most women who are infected with HPV never develop cervical cancer. However, if you have an HPV infection and your immune system is weakened by another health condition, you may be more likely to develop cervical cancer.

Cigarette smoking. The exact mechanism that links cigarette smoking to cervical cancer isn't known, but tobacco use increases the risk of precancerous changes as well as cancer of the cervix.

Screening and diagnosis

There currently isn't any way to determine which women have immune systems that make them more susceptible to cervical cancer. That's why simple and inexpensive Pap tests are important. During a Pap test, your doctor brushes cells from your cervix — the narrow neck of the uterus — smears them onto a glass slide and sends the slide to a lab.

A newer approach to Pap screening uses a liquid to transfer the sample of cells to the lab. Your doctor collects the cells in exactly the same way, but then he or she rinses the instruments in a special liquid, which preserves the cells for examination later. When this sample reaches the lab, a technician prepares a microscopic slide that's more easily interpreted than is the traditional method.

In nearly all cases, a Pap test allows for the detection of abnormal cells. This is the precancerous stage, when the abnormal cells (dysplasia) exist only in the outer layer of the cervix and haven't invaded deeper tissues. If untreated, the abnormal cells may convert to cancer cells, which may spread in various stages into the cervix, the upper vagina, and the pelvic areas and to other parts of your body. Cancer or precancerous conditions that are caught at the pre-invasive stage are rarely life-threatening and typically require only outpatient treatment.

Since women started having Pap smears more than 50 years ago, the number of deaths from cervical cancer has dropped dramatically. What was once the leading cause of cancer death for women in the United States now ranks as number 15. According to the American Cancer Society, about 3,700 women die each year of cervical cancer — a figure that could drop even further if more women had the Pap smear on a regular basis.

If you get regular Pap smears, you substantially decrease your chances of getting cervical cancer. But even if you develop cervical cancer, the chances of a cure are as high as 90 percent — if discovered early. The Pap smear is the best tool to detect cervical cancer in its earliest stage.

Sesame Seeds

History tells us that sesame seed is the first recorded seasoning, dating back to 3000 B.C. Assyria . It grows widely in India and throughout the Orient. The seeds were bought to America by African slaves, who called it benné (pronounced BEHN-nee) seed, and it subsequently became very popular in Southern cooking. The seed is available packaged in supermarkets and can be found in bulk in Middle Eastern markets and health-food stores. There have been several studies done and it was found that people who ate 1 ½ oz. sesame seeds daily had a 10 percent drop in LDL (bad) cholesterol. Compounds called lignans that help the seed get their cholesterol-lowering powers.

Visit almost any fast food burger joint and you’ll likely notice sesame seed on your sandwich bun. What may surprise you; however, is just how many of those tiny seeds we consume each year. Last year alone, the United States imported more than 102 million pounds of sesame seed, the majority of which went right to those buns. Although breads, rolls and bagels are among the most familiar foods associated with sesame, its uses extend far beyond the realm of baking.

Sesame seed is a versatile seed that can be used in many of the same ways as nuts. The seed has a nutty, sweet aroma with a milk-like, buttery taste. When toasted, its flavor intensifies, yielding an almost almond- or peanut butter-like flavor. Did you know that sesame seeds are rich in calcium, vitamins B and E, iron, and zinc, sesame is high in protein and contains no cholesterol? It is a key ingredient in a variety of world cuisines, especially Asian, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean. 

Sesame is thought to be one of the oldest spices known to man and is likely the first crop grown for its edible oil. Babylonians used the oil to make sesame cakes, wine, brandy, and toiletries. From as early as 1500 B.C, Egyptians believed sesame to have medicinal powers. What’s more, the famous phrase "Open Sesame" was the magical password that opened the entrance to the cave in Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves. This reference is perhaps attributable to the fact that ripe sesame seeds burst from their pods with a sharp pop. In Africa , sesame seed was called benne and considered good luck. Today, in the southern United States, sesame seed is still widely known as benne.
In Mediterranean cooking, sesame seed is often used in sweet dishes and desserts. Its nuttiness makes it a natural accompaniment to ice cream, sugar cookies, cookie bars, cakes, muffins, breads, and especially chocolate. 

The sesame plant, Sesamum indicum, is cultivated in Central America , India , Sudan , China , and the United States . It is an annual that grows three to six feet high. Its stems have white, lilac or pink flowers and bear capsule-like fruit, which contains the seeds. The fruit is harvested by hand, and the capsules shatter when fully ripe, releasing the seeds. Hulled seeds are pearly white, tear-shaped and flat. Because of their oil content, sesame seeds have a shelf life of about two years if stored tightly capped in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator.

In the US sesame is used to attract and feed game birds. In Ohio and Oklahoma farmers plant sesame on ditch banks and along wooded creeks to sustain quail and pheasants. In South Carolina farmers still use the name of beniseed and plant sesame for dove hunting. In the 1950s the cultivar 'Paloma' (Spanish for dove) was specifically developed by the USDA for President Eisenhower's hunting trips. In experimental nurseries doves linger through the fall and early winter as hawks and falcons prey on them. In late January 2003, hundreds of doves were still in Oklahoma even though the temperatures were below freezing. The doves can become so fat and plentiful that hundreds of them on a telephone line above a sesame field broke the line. The nurseries have provided cover for rabbits, deer, badgers, wild hogs, armadillos, rattlesnakes, and occasionally a bobcat. The deer will only eat the leaves if desperate during a drought, but they love to pick the capsules from the stem and rub their antlers on selected lines.

Facts about Sesame

Now that sesame varieties have been developed that can be mechanically harvested, sesame has returned to the United States as a viable, alternative crop. Other sesame production in the world is highly labor intensive and, therefore, restricted to less developed countries.

BENEFITS of US grown sesame

• Sesame is a program crop on which farmers can earn an adequate to good return without dependence on program payments. It is grown principally as a rotation crop.
• There is low risk
      Less out of pocket expenses and greater weather tolerance
• Sesame is a good rotation crop
      Conditions the soil; reduces cotton root rot and nematodes, thus lowering the risk on cotton and peanuts
• Sesame is drought tolerant
      Requires 1/4 the water for corn, 1/3 the water for sorghum and 1/2 the water for cotton
• Uses common farming practices and standard equipment
• Uses standard grain handling equipment
      Received by local elevators
• Does not compete with other US vegetable oils
      Is a staple in "ethnic cuisines" requiring specific flavors
• There is an opportunity to replace $100 million of US imports and to participate in a "new" $850 million export market

PRODUCTION of US grown sesame

• Over 55,000 tons of sesame have been grown in the United States
• Sesame is principally a rotation crop for cotton, corn, wheat, and peanuts
• Major growing areas are in South Texas , the Rolling Plains and High Plains of Texas and in Oklahoma , with production beginning again in southern Kansas and a history of growing in Arizona
• Expansion of sesame production is restricted by lack of Multiple Peril Crop Insurance, which is required by bankers and landlords. Current annual production is approximately 2,500 metric tons on 10,000 acres with 60 to 70 farmers
• Approximately 80 percent of sesame is dry land and 20 percent irrigated
• Sesame gross income ranges from $100 to $400 per acre depending on rainfall, irrigation, fertility, and planting date
• Sesame growing costs are less than grain sorghum, wheat, corn, peanuts, or cotton
• Sesame seed is approximately 50% oil and 45% meal; meal is approximately 50% protein

A twenty percent share of today's world market would equate to 700,000 acres of US sesame. The world market is growing and China is moving from a major exporter to a significant importer .

As with other vegetable oils, sesame oil has been used to make soap and margarine, but the high cost of the sesame oil precludes these uses presently. In the past sesame oil was used in lanterns. The oil is used in many intra-muscular injections as a carrier to spread the medicine faster. Many insecticides use sesame oil as a synergist for the active agent.

In Asia the seed is also used as whole seed. The Japanese eat with their eyes before they taste the food. Sesame is used as a garnish with black sesame decorating light foods such as fish and light sesame decorating dark foods. In Japan sesame sits on most tables and is used as a flavoring much as salt and pepper are used in the West. The sesame is ground on to the food right at the table. In Japan sesame is also fried until it pops giving a unique flavor. In Korea , whole seed is added to many sauces used in daily meals.

Even though the price of oil is 3 times higher than most oils, there is an increasing amount of oil consumed: 10,776 tons of oil was imported in 2004, and there is some crushing in the US . Some of the oil is used in cooking and is commonly used in Chinese and Japanese restaurants in the US . Sesame oil is further refined and used extensively in cosmetics. In looking at labels, particularly on facial crèmes, sesame oil is one of the ingredients. In India the effects on the human skin have been long known and many bathe with sesame oil regularly. Increasingly processors are extracting minor components from sesame oil. Sesamin can be bought from commercial sources. One Japanese company puts the sesamin in pills and markets them for reducing hangovers after drinking alcohol.

The potential use of the sesame plant as a source of protein was studied by Yermanos. There is potential to do one cutting for plant protein and then harvest the crop for seed. However, work still needs to be done on the palatability of the fresh material. In Venezuela , sugar had to be added to dry sesame stalks for cattle to feed on it. In Venezuela , horses have been turned into sesame fields to eat the weeds and leave the sesame plants; similar results in the US have occurred with cattle and sheep. Goats will eat the plants.

In India sesame is used in religious ceremonies and is used in festivals. In the Sandarn Koil Tapasu Festival, sesame seeds are cooked very slowly in sugar creating a sugar coating around the individual seed. The treat is then given to friends and relatives to bring luck in the next year. The original wedding cakes used in the West come from sesame cakes served at weddings in ancient Greece . In China sesame is sprinkled over rice and red beans and served at the exchange of wedding presents. The slaves in the US brought sesame from Africa and planted it at their doors to bring luck and ward off evil spirits.

Try some sesame seeds today what have you got to loose. This is a tiny seed packed with a big punch.

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How much do you know about your Liver?

I believe that our liver is a very important organ, and plays a big part in our daily lives. How we help take care of our liver should matter to all of us. The liver is the largest organ in our body, and responsible for numerous processes that keep us alive and healthy. It has an immense capacity to heal and regenerate, but that capacity is not infinite. Unfortunately, signs of liver damage usually do not show until the liver has been significantly harmed, and treatment at that point is extremely difficult, or even impossible in some cases. The best protection is prevention!The liver’s vital role in our good health

If you have tried many ways to improve your health and energy level and nothing has seemed to adequately help, it is very possible that an overworked liver underlies your difficulties. Restoring optimum liver function is one of the most important and vital actions you can take to improve your health.
The natural course of life can cause the liver to get stressed, overworked and exhausted. Toxic chemicals, preservatives, poor diet, cigarettes, alcohol and prescription drugs all cause the liver to deteriorate, drain its energy and make it hard or even impossible for it to perform its functions. This can create a “state of emergency” within the body and could damage other organs, leading to numerous chronic conditions. DETOXIFICATION As the detoxifying center of the body, the liver has a daily workload of neutralizing toxic substances such as pesticides, caffeine, medications, alcohol, chemicals, food preservatives, auto exhaust and cigarettes. The liver helps remove these substances by breaking them down, enabling us to survive the enormous toxic challenges in our environment. SYMPTOMS OF A CONGESTED LIVER Ultimately, our health can only be as good as the health of our liver. A poorly functioning liver will affect all other organs. Weight gain and depression are two manifestations of a congested, overworked liver. Other common symptoms and conditions include being on edge (easily stressed), emotional roller coaster, elevated cholesterol, skin conditions, skin irritation, sleep difficulties, fat indigestion, kidney damage, heart damage, brain damage, hypothyroidism, chronic fatigue, poor memory, PMS, mental fog, blood sugar disorders, allergies and obesity.
When the liver gets congested and toxic, it will remain that way and can get worse until it is detoxified and rejuvenated. The liver has everything to do with your energy level. If you want high energy, great stamina and overall good health, be sure to keep your liver in excellent shape. Not detoxifying your liver is like never changing the oil filter in your car! A healthy liver can mean much more energy, greater mental clarity, better mood, improved health, protection against countless ailments, and finding relief for conditions that may have been plaguing you for years. Here are a few tips on how we can keep our liver healthy

1. Avoid excessive alcohol. Alcohol causes liver damage. If you drink to excess, your liver won’t get a chance to repair the damage before the next binge.

2. Avoid unnecessary medication. Your liver detoxifies your body, and that includes the chemicals that make up the medications you take, including over-the-counter medicine. If you do not absolutely have to take medicine, save your liver the stress – don’t take it!

3. NEVER mix different medicines without consulting a pharmacist or physician. The chemicals you mix can form a toxic compound that will damage your liver, or make it worse.

4. Do not mix medicine and alcohol. This is especially true for acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol and other over-the-counter pain relievers

5. Practice safer sex – don’t risk hepatitis B (and, to lesser extent, hepatitis C)

6. Don’t use illegal drugs. If you do –get help and stop.

7. Don’t share items that may have bodily fluids on them – needles, razors, toothbrushes, etc.

8. Wear a mask and protective clothing when spraying chemicals at home or in your yard. Your liver can be damaged by what you breathe or absorb through your skin.

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Do you grind your teeth?

 Bruxism is the medical term for grinding, gnashing or clenching your teeth. The condition affects both children and adults. Some people with bruxism unconsciously clench their teeth together during the day, often when they feel anxious or tense. This is different from tooth grinding or clenching that occurs at night, which is called sleep bruxism. Most children who are bruxers do so at night, while adults are either daytime or nighttime bruxers. Bruxism may be mild and may not even require treatment. However, it can be frequent and severe enough to lead to jaw disorders, headaches, damaged teeth and other problems. Unfortunately, people with sleep bruxism usually aren't aware of the habit, so they aren't diagnosed with the condition until complications occur. That's why it's important to know the signs and symptoms of bruxism and to seek regular dental care.

The signs and symptoms of bruxism may include:

• Teeth grinding or clenching, which may be loud enough to wake your sleep partner
• Teeth that are worn down, flattened or chipped
• Worn tooth enamel, exposing the inside of your tooth
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Jaw pain or tightness in your jaw muscles
• Earache — because of severe jaw muscle contractions, not a problem with your ear
• Headache
• Chronic facial pain
• Chewed tissue on the inside of your cheek

Some causes might be:

Doctors don't completely understand the causes of bruxism. For daytime bruxism, it has been thought that abnormal alignment of upper and lower teeth (malocclusion) may contribute to the problem, but this hasn't been confirmed in research studies. Sleep bruxism is believed to be related to changes that occur during sleep cycles in some individuals and this is an active area of current research. In adults, psychological factors seem to be associated with bruxism, including: Anxiety, stress or tension Suppressed anger or frustration Aggressive, competitive or hyperactive personality type In children, bruxism may be related to growth and development of the jaws and teeth. Some researchers think children grind their top and bottom teeth because their teeth don't fit together comfortably as they are erupting.  Others believe that children grind their teeth because of tension, anger, or as a response to pain from an earache or teething. While bruxism has been reported to occur in up to 30 percent of children, often in children under the age of 5, most children outgrow bruxism before they get their adult teeth. In some cases, bruxism isn't caused by stress or dental problems. It can be a complication of another disorder, such as Huntington's disease or Parkinson's disease. It can also be an uncommon side effect of some psychiatric medications including certain antidepressants.

When to seek medical advice

Bruxism often goes unnoticed. See your doctor or dentist if you have worn teeth or pain in your jaw, face or ear. Also consult your doctor or dentist if your bed partner complains that you make a grinding noise while you sleep. If you notice that your child is grinding his or her teeth — or has other signs or symptoms of this condition — be sure to mention it at your child's next dentist appointment.

Complications

In most cases, bruxism doesn't cause serious complications. But severe bruxism may lead to:

• Damage to your teeth (including restorations and crowns) or jaw
• Tension-type headaches
• Facial pain
• Temporomandibular disorders — which occur in the temporomandibular joints (TMJs), located just in front of your ears and felt when opening and closing your mouth.

Self-care

These self-care steps may prevent or help treat bruxism:

• Reduce stress. Keeping your life stresses to a minimum may reduce your risk of developing bruxism.
• Talk to your sleep partner . If you have a roommate or bed partner, ask him or her to be aware of any grinding or clicking sounds that you might make while sleeping. Your sleep partner can then let you know if he or she notices any teeth-grinding sounds in the night.

Have regular dental exams. Dental exams are the best way to screen against bruxism, especially if you live alone or don't have a sleep partner who can observe bruxism at night. Your dentist can best spot signs of bruxism in your mouth and jaw with regular visits and examinations

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Here are a few quick tips I have used in my lifetime and thought maybe you too might be interested in some of them.

1. Help stop the ouch of an earache, heat an onion half in the microwave for about 2 minutes or until warm but not hot. Wrap the onion in a soft cloth or paper towel, apply the flat side to your ear and hold for fifteen minutes. The heated vegetable emits sulfur, an anti-inflammatory gas that easily penetrates the ear canal to relieve pressure and pain.

 2. Adding luster to brown hair is easy. Sometimes to touch up my daughters hair while giving it some added color and shine I mix 1 Tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder with 1 Tablespoon of her shampoo wash and rinse her hair as usual. The cocoa coats the strands of hair and adds depth and richness to lackluster brunette hair. You will be shocked how pretty and alive the brunette hair looks.

 3. You might want to try this recipe to make the skin on your hands look and feel firmer and younger. Your hands can many times show your true age. The Eastern beauties have found a fabulous fountain of youth cure, it is rice! The next time you make rice for dinner try this, let the cooking water cool, then soak your hands in the warm water for about 10 minutes. The bran in rice has a chemical structure similar to the ceramide found in human skin, which is responsible for cell regeneration. The rice’s nutrients also up the production of collagen, so skin will be firmer too.

 4. When two drinking glasses get stuck together here is an easy way to get them apart without breaking the glasses. To separate the drinking glasses, place a few ice cubes inside the top glass while soaking the bottom glass in a bowl of warm water. The cold causes the inner glass to contract, and the heat makes the outer glass expand.

 5. Have you ever tried to remove food stains from your hands and have had no luck? Here is a quick tip that works and you will want to share this with others. Just grab a discarded slice of raw potato and rub in on the stains, then rinse your hands with warm water. The starch in potatoes absorb the food pigment from your skin in seconds, so your hands will look their prettiest and nobody will ever know you had stained hands earlier in the day.

 6. Help to remove tarnish in seconds dip a cork from a wine bottle in some olive oil, then use it to rub tarnish off silver pieces. The oleic in olive oil dissolves the mineral and soap deposits, while the cork’s texture helps remove excess oil and restore natural shine without scratching.

 7. Here is an old Cleopatra trick people have used for years to help keep their skin creamy and soft. Warm 3 cups of milk in the microwave for one to two minutes then add to running bath water. Lie back and relax for 15 – 20 minutes before rinsing off. The beta hydroxyl acid in milk loosens dead cells that cling to your body. The milk’s natural proteins lock in moisture for silly skin that lasts.

 8. Do you know how to keep your toilet clean and sparkling? If you notice hard water stains in your toilet and you want to have it clean by the time you come home from work, you may want to try this idea. Simply pour a can of cola into the toilet bowl and let sit while you’re gone. The citric acid in the drink will dissolve the alkaline deposits. When you get home, just flush twice for sparkling porcelain.

 9. Although you store your small garden tools and pruning clippers in a toolbox during the winter months the tools some how manage to rust during the winter, but by putting a few sticks of blackboard chalk in with the tools. The water absorbing gypsum (a form of calcium sulfate, the main ingredient in chalk) soaks up rust-causing moisture that collects inside the container before it can tarnish the metal. Then when it comes spring again your garden supplies will look as good as new.

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Happy Father's Day

A Dad is a person
who is loving and kind,
and often he knows
what you have on your mind.
He's someone who listens,
suggests, and defends.
A dad can be one
of your very best friends!
He's proud of your triumphs,
but when things go wrong,
a dad can be patient
and helpful and strong
in all that you do,
a dad's love plays a part.
There's always a place for him
deep in your heart.
And each year that passes,
you're even more glad,
more grateful and proud just to call him your dad!
Thank you, Dad...
for listening and caring,
for giving and sharing,
but, especially, for just being you!
Happy Father's Day.

Author unknown

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I Believe

I believe -
....that just because two people argue, it doesn't mean they don't love each other.  
And just because they don't argue, it doesn't mean they do.

I believe -
....that we don't have to change friends if we understand that friends change.  

I believe -
…. that no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that.

I believe -
....that true friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance. Same goes for true love.

I believe -
....that you can do something in an instant that will give you heartache for life  

I believe -
...that it's taking me a long time to become the person I want to be.

I   believe -
....that you should always leave loved ones with loving words. It may be the last time you see them.

I believe -
....that you can keep going long after you think you can't.  

I believe -
....that we are responsible for what we do, no matter how we feel.

I believe -
....that either you control your attitude or it controls you

I believe -
….that heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs to be done, regardless of the consequences  

I believe -
....that money is a lousy way of keeping score.

I believe -
....that my best friend and I can do anything or nothing and have the best time  

I believe -
....that sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you're down, will be the ones to help you get back up.

I believe -
....that sometimes when I'm angry I have the right to be angry, but that doesn't give me the right to be cruel.

I believe -
....that maturity has more to do with what types of experiences you've had and what you've learned from them and less to do with how many birthdays you've celebrated.

I believe -
....that it isn't always enough to be forgiven by others. Sometimes you have to learn to forgive yourself.

I believe -
....that no matter how bad your heart is broken the world doesn't stop for your grief  

I   believe -
...that our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are, but we are responsible for who we become  

I believe -
....that you shouldn't be so eager to find out a secret. It could change your life forever.

I believe -
....two people can look at the exact same thing
and see something totally different.

I believe -
….that your life can be changed in a matter of hours by people who don't even know you.  

I believe -
....that even when you think you have no more to give, when a friend cries out to you - you will find the strength to help.

I believe -
....that credentials on the wall do not make you a
decent human being.

I believe -
....that the people you care about most in life are taken from you too soon

I believe -

….that when you help others, the blessings you receive in return are rewards known as heart felt memories that live within you forever.

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THE IMPORTANCE OF TIME

Here is a story that touched my heart, hope it will touch yours too. "Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away."

A young man learns what's most important in life from the guy next door. It had been some time since Joe had seen the old man. College, girls, career, and life itself got in the way. In fact, Joe moved across the country in pursuit of his dreams. There, in the rush of his busy life, Joe had little time to think about the past and often no time to spend with his wife and son. He was working on his future, and nothing could stop him.

Over the phone, his mother told him, “Mr. Taylor died last night. The funeral is Tuesday." Memories flashed through Joe's mind like an old newsreel as he sat quietly remembering his childhood days. "Joe, did you hear me?" "Oh sorry, Mom. Yes, I heard you. It's been so long since I have thought of him," Joe said. "Well, he didn't forget you. Every time I saw him he'd ask how you were doing. He'd reminisce about the many days you spent over at his house. "I loved that man and his old house that he lived in," Joe said. "You know, Joe, after your father died, Mr. Taylor stepped in to make sure you had a man's influence in your life," she said. "He's the one who taught me carpentry; I wouldn't be in this business if it weren't for him. He spent a lot of time teaching me things he thought were important." Mom, “I’ll be there for the funeral," Joe said.

As busy as Joe was, he kept his word. Joe caught the next flight to his hometown. Mr. Taylor's funeral was small and uneventful. He had no children of his own, and most of his relatives had passed away. The night before he was to return home, Joe and his Mom stopped by to see the old house next door one more time. The house was exactly as he remembered. Every step held memories. Every picture, every piece of furniture. Joe stopped suddenly. "What's wrong, Joe?" his Mom asked. "The box is gone," he said. "What box?" his Mom asked. "There was a small gold box that he kept locked on top of his desk. I must have asked him a thousand times what was inside. All he'd ever tell me was the thing I value most," Joe said. It was gone. Everything about the house was exactly how Joe remembered it, except for the box. He figured someone from the Taylor family had taken it. "Now I'll never know what was so valuable to him, Joe said.”I better get some sleep. I have an early flight home, Mom."

It had been several weeks since Mr. Taylor died. Returning home from work one day Joe discovered a note in his mailbox. "Signature required on a package. No one at home. Please stop by the post office within the next three days," the note read. Early the next morning Joe retrieved the package. The small box was old and looked like it had been mailed a hundred years ago. The handwriting was difficult to read, but the return address caught his attention. "Mr. Harold Taylor" it read. Joe took the box out to his car and ripped open the package. There inside was the gold box and an envelope; Joe's hands shook as he read the note inside. "Upon my death, please forward this box and its contents to Joe Anderson. It's the thing I valued most in my life." A small key was taped to the letter. His heart racing, as tears filled his eyes, Joe carefully unlocked the box. There inside he found a beautiful gold pocket watch. Running his fingers slowly over the finely etched casting, he unlatched the cover. Inside he found these words engraved: "Joe Thanks for your time! Harold Taylor." "The thing he valued most was my time."

Jack held the watch for a few minutes, then called his office and cleared his appointments for the next two days. "Why?" Sally, his assistant asked. "I need some time to spend with my son and wife, "he said.”Oh, by the way, Sally thanks for your time!"

Think about this. You may not realize it, but it's 100% true.

1. At least 2 people in this world love you so much they would die for you.

2. At least 15 people in this world love you in some way.

3. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like you.

4. Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you before they go to sleep.

5. You mean the world to someone.

6. If not for you, someone may not be living.

7. You are special and unique.

8. When you think you have no chance of getting what you want, you probably won't get it, but if you trust God to do what's best, and wait on His time, sooner or later, you will get it or something better.

9. When you make the biggest mistake ever, something good can still come from it.

10. When you think the world has turned its back on you, take another look.

11. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you.

12. Always tell someone how you feel, you will feel much better when they know and you'll both be happier.

13. Always remember the compliments you received. Forget about the rude remarks.

14. If you have a great friend, take the time to let them know that they are great.

Have a great day; remember life is what we choose to make it. Try to brighten someone's day; it might change their perspective on life, for the better.

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The Sunflower story

Have you ever wondered why I picked the sunflower theme for my website? There is a reason; I would like to take this time to share it with you.

Every time I look at a field of sunflowers it reminds me of all the wonderful people that I have met with cancer throughout the last twenty seven years. Each of these people and their families has touched my life in one way or another. The patients bring and have brought a beauty from within themselves to share with me in my life. Sometimes the patients and I are only together for a short time and then there are others who stay in my life for years. But time isn’t what matters, its how each person touches your life while they are in it that makes the time special. I thank God for allowing me to meet these lovely people, whether it is only for a reason, a season, or a lifetime.

The sunflower has always been one of my favorite flowers. Each sunflower has its own beauty some short, some tall, some heavy some small, some with blemishes some prefect as can be, but each with their own unique beauty. A flower with a bright sunny yellow color that stands ever so tall even when the petals start to turn, roll up, or fall. Still the flowers show their beauty through the sun, wind and rain. The strength of this flower doesn’t let these elements take its toll for it still stands tall and holds on to all its beauty through it all. Each and every flower is a beauty in itself, for when I look at a field of sunflowers it reminds me of all the loving patients I have had the honor to work with, learn about, love and share within my heart.

So every year when I plant my sunflowers I think of the wonderful people who have come and gone in my life but will remain in my heart and mind forever. Planting these sunflowers at the edge of my garden every spring, I know the sunflowers will supply me with shade throughout the summer months; will help me to feed the birds throughout the winter, while giving my garden color and displaying a bright sunny yellow happy face. Just like the many people I have had the chance to work with throughout the years, the sunflowers show me their strength and their determination to fight and stand tall throughout their battles of the weather however so large or small.

The next time you check out my web site remember the field of sunflowers is much larger than it seems, for the field goes on and on for miles beyond your wildest dreams. The field is filled with flowers so pretty and yet free, there is no times like today to thank God for sharing the beauty of eternity. God Bless all the wonderful people who have been a part of my life.

Written by Mary D. Johnson

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