Fawn - Just the Basics

[HevinMonkey]

Fawn,

I read your post the other day about your BIL (so sorry you all are going thru that , but so glad you are there to help guide him), and you had some great recommendations that we all could follow.

I have been reading so much lately, on this board and elsewhere, about so many life changes I would like to make that promote health, that I have just gotten overwhelmed with it all and am just not sure where to start.

Could I ask you please for a very basic protocol that you would recommend based on your studies, research and personal knowledge? Not for any particular health deficit or need, but more or less the basic foundation...what do we all need to be doing, or not doing on a daily basis to promote health and fight disease? (And yes, I want your honest, blunt opinions, even if I don't like it! )

Some of the main areas I am looking for guidance in are:

• What are our biggest areas of concern? (ie: inflammation, acidity/alkalinity)

• What are the things we should absolutely steer clear of? (ie:aspartame)

• What are the things we should absolutely add to our daily lives? (ie: specific supplements, foods, etc.)

• What should we be doing on a daily basis to promote bowel health and regularity? ( supplements)

• What are your top recommended resources that we should all have? (books, websites, etc.)

• What would be the most basic supplements that we should all be taking?

And any other area that you see as an absolute to promoting health and fighting disease.

I was going to PM you, but I know so many people on this board look up to you and respect your valuable advice, so I'm sure I am not the only one that will benefit from having this information all in one place as we strive to make positive changes and be proactive about taking charge of our health.

Thank you SO much in advance! You are an absolute jewel!

[lil miss]

Interesting! Thanks for posting here so we can all learn!

[Cyard]

Wow! Thanks for posting that. I'm anxiously awaiting Fawn's response.

[fawn]

Hey sweets, I was just thinking about you this morning! Thank you for the compliments. I've worked hard to get to this point and I'll never go back. I just posted to Jenn about this very subject and it really is simple
Eat as close to your foods natural state as you can......
eat clean meats and consume wild salmon when you can
consume fruit and veggies as much in their raw state as you can (Low GI and appropriate to your carb level)
eat organic, preferably raw dairy
consume nuts and seeds that are organic and raw

sip herbal teas and lemon water

That's how easy it is. I don't count carbs or calories. My daily consumption is fairly boring but with a wide variety of nutrient density and color and I believe without any illness or other health dilmena, the human body should get most of their vitamins from foods as it was intended.
Personally, I take
Cod Liver oil 2000 mg. daily
for a tailbone injury I take rather than an NSAID
msm/bromelain
Co Enzyme Q10 (this is the spark plugs of the cells)
chloriphyl in my shake as well as a green powder with a variety of vitamins and minerals from whole fruits and veggies
Calcium/magnesium supplement before bed
Coconut oil 3 tbs. daily in one form or another cooked or right off the spoon

Supplementation is personal really. The one supp I believe non-negotiable is that of cod liver oil for your A, D and omega 3 value. We all need it and most are deficient.

I believe in avoiding all foods chemically altered (yes, aspartame, saccharin and splenda)
I believe meats and dairy should be free of antibiotics and pesticides
I believe that roasted/salted nuts cause inflammation and therefore I avoid them and only consume raw
I believe that in the absence of refined foods it is difficult for one to not lose weight and/or contract degenerative disease
Refined foods are dead foods. They have been killed because their enzymes, vitamins and minerals have been stripped and in turn, this does the same thing to the human frame this is why you see cancer, pancreatic problems, gall bladder removals, diabetes, chronic colds and flu, psoriasis, eczema, infertility, etc. etc.......

Our bodies have a miraculous abiltiy to heal themselves. But they need support. This is what whole real foods provide...fuel for your body to run optimally.

If I could throw out a couple of reads that I find invaluable they would be
The Diet Cure (which you are familar with)
Nourishing Traditions by Sally Fallon (her promotion of clean saturated fat and the value of soups and mineral broths are in fact a nourishing way to eat)
and finally, the most valued source I haveWeston A. Price Foundation

Be well girls.

[faithgirl]

What about fat? I see the 3 tbs CO, but other than that, what types/amounts are you eating? Do you think someone can overdo fruits and grains? (I am not currently doing LC). Or if they are in their natural state, do you think they are fine? I was thinking of posting and asking you the same types of things the OP did. Thanks ladies!

[HevinMonkey]

Thank you SO much for such a quick and thorough answer!

A couple of quick questions... (ism''t that how I always start?)

• What other things should we do to avoid inflammation? (I've studied alot in my own field about how inflammation really speeds up the aging process, but none of my textbooks went into what we need to do or not do to prevent it )

• What are the main purposes and benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar?

• Should Soy, in all its forms, be avoided?

Thank you again so very much for your graciousness (is that even a word? ) and your patience with me! I know you endlessly post answers about these very topics and I promise...I do my best to remember it all, but then I forget where I found something, or why I was even interested, and it all gets so overwhelming that I find myself putting off the changes for yet another day that I will never get back.

Hey...how bout this thread can be the classroom and you can be the teacher? I'm sure you will have more than a few eager students!

[Dreamchaser]

Wow, what a fantastic thread!

Thank you so much HevinMonkey for posting these well thought out and excellent questions to ask fawn!

And of course thank you, as always, fawn for your invaluable and infinite wisdom! And for the reading recommendations!

Now we can all have a much clearer idea of some wonderful healthy changes we can make in our lives.

[faithgirl]

When you all talk about inflammation-what kind of inflammation do you mean? Of the joints? The muscles?

[lil miss]

Hey

FAWN- I too thank you for your invaluable advice. I have a question - I am allergic to certain raw fruits and veggies. 2 of my 5 sisters have this as well. It is SO odd. It didnt develop in any of us until adulthood -20's. I FINALLY found someone, a nutritionist who works with DH who helped me identify what it is. I can eat broccoli cooked LIMP, but even slightly raw and I am experiencing horrific stomach pains, and eventually they pass. This nutritionist said, "even an apple has protein in it, so if you can eat it cooked but not raw the only thing in it that breaks down int he cooking process is the protein." Most recently, I have found myself actually vomiting I am very worried about this as [1] I know eating raw fruits and veggies is HEALTHY and [2] I worry now every time I eat something that I may get a reaction. I have even started breaking out in hives with some things.

I intend on going to an allergist and getting tested so I know what I can and cannot eat but I guess my question for you is: [1] have you ever heard of this before? I asked SO many MDs and no one had ever heard of this, and [2] do you think it is still possible for me to live an optimal healthy lifestyle if I cannot consume RAW fruits and veggies?

[fawn]

I hope I don't miss any questions but if I do, don't hesitate to call me on it.
First, fat is the highest priority on my list and I get it in the form of
animal protein
dairy (including butter....ever tasted a slab of organic butter plain?) yum
nuts
olive oil
walnut oil
rice bran oil (high temp cooking without taste)
coconut oil
flax oil
I don't count carbs/calories or ratio calculating unless a question is asked of me. I now know my body and am in tune with what works for me. Remember, you must find what works best for you. I eat when I'm hungry and never allow my blood sugar to drop. When it does, I'm a beast so I always have walnuts in the car.
Inflammation can be caused by several things most particularly rancid oils and the overconsumption of polyunsaturated as well as trans fats. refined foods, stress environmental toxins and low grade viral and/or bacterial infections. Poor digestion can also lead to inflammation in the body. This prevents us from efficiently processing our fuel and also leads to illness. Google the body ecology program for more information on inflammation and its relationship to disease.

Apple Cider Vinegar has many health claims but it is the only vinegar in my home other than my balsamic which I use rarely any more. It is a live food Kimber. It has enzymes. It is a soft tissue healer, hair conditioner, heartburn remedy, body alkalizer, blood sugar stabilizer. Many health claims for ACV and again, as preventive the only vinegar we use. oops I lied. I buy a gallon of the cheap white stuff for my bamboo floors.

soy is not a health food Kimber and I am adamant about that. I do believe that miso and tempeh can be beneficial. The soy that is in everything right now as well as the blocks you purchase at the grocery store are all more than likely "Round up Ready" soy in which the insecticide is bred with the soy bean. A GM food.

lil miss you poor sweet thing. You're doing the right thing by having the testing. Don't worry about your consumption right now....get your tummy in order because forcing that in which makes you sick for the purpose of health does not make sense. There are so many powders out there that have digestive enzymes as well as pro-biotc value that a nutritional therapist will be able to guide you once your allergy testing comes back. For now, eat what is working for you and the rest will fall into place.

Be well everyone.

[faithgirl]

Thanks Fawn. You've given me a lot to think about. I would like to eat more like you've described, and I know that I need to. Here are my problems-I live in a small town with no access to anything organic, and especially not organic meat and dairy products. I can't afford to have it shipped in. Also-I have over 100 pounds to lose. Do you really think I can lose weight without counting calories and cutting fat? I feel like I will gain even more weight-something I cannot afford to do. Any thoughts?

[fawn]

Faithgirl.....you need to do what is going to fit your lifestyle and economic purpose. Here's how I look at my eating patterns
Eat the best quality I possibly can within my means....I don't eat filet mignon. To purchase filet mignon free range is out of the question for me as a real estate agent right now and student. I eat eggs, ground beef, chicken and fish.

You're in California? You should have access to Farmers Markets this spring right? Check those out......

My second question to you is....why cut fat?
You don't have to count calories and cut fat.......

I encourage you to find a plan that works for you......and work that plan.
what have you been doing for weight loss? Has it worked for you? Are you bored? Wanting fruits?

My journey began with Atkins and morphed to what I believe is Atkins Maintenance in an organic manner. People don't realize how liberal Atkins really is.......they just get stuck in induction and think that's the only way they can live without gaining or stalling. I don't eat grains and rarely rice.....I do eat quinoa infrequently but that's a high protein seed really. I do eat beans though.

Give me some background.

[faithgirl]

No, there aren't any farmer's markets around here that I'm aware of. They tried to do one last year, but the only produce merchant was Albertsons. They brought the same stuff they have at the store. Kind of a waste of time really. Albertsons may have a few organic things, I will check on my next trip.

I can't do LC-I've tried and tried and can't stick with it. I am doing WW right now. I am losing at an okay rate, but honestly, I have been eating too much of the processed low calorie junk. I know I need to clean that up. If I eat a lot of fat, I won't get much to eat becuase of how they set up the point system-you are penalized a bit if you eat higher fat things. I'm not quite sure I know if I am going to continue with the plan or not. After reading some of the things you've written, I am thinking I may need to focus on changing a couple things at a time.

With as much weight to lose as I do, do you think I should continue to keep an eye on calories?

[fawn]

I'm going to be blatant and tell you that you will continue a vicious cycle with refined food.

Do you know why I don't even allow myself a morsel faithgirl? I can't handle it. I think it's a road block to succesful weight loss and I believe it feeds inflammation.

Here's a small piece of advice for you.....since you're doing weight watchers, make your snack options whole foods only. You're on a point system so a small apple with 10 walnut halves is a better option for you. This is an example of the small changes you can make.

Working toward a whole foods lifestyle will serve you better for long term success. Whether that be organic or not.

[faithgirl]

Thanks Fawn. I know I need to do this. I am going shopping on Satruday so I will buy more whole foods. I know, the processed foods can cause terrible cravings for me at times.

[fawn]

You can always tell yourself that later, once you've reached a point in which you maintain total control, you can add some things back here and there......

I promise you wont want to anyway. I think the read "The Diet Cure" by Julia Ross is a good referral for you. Try to pick up a copy at your library.

[NancyElle]

I'm going to jump in here; sometimes, my gut just tells me to contribute, so here goes. I'm speaking from the heart here, so it will probably be long.

I believe (and Fawn, please, PLEASE correct me if I am wrong) that inflammation is our biggest enemy. Inflammation upsets the beautiful synergy within.

If anyone eats white flour, white sugar, processed breads, cereals, grains, wierd butter type spreads, refined cookies, chips, white bread, cakes, mac & cheese, et al (the list goes on and on and on) I think the body will react to the irritant by producing an inflammatory response.

This could manifest as anything~heartburn, spastic colon, exzema, psoriasis, acne, migraines, problems with menses, allergies, colds, flu or even worse cancer, diabetes, or a myriad of chronic health problems.

Granted, outside sources can contribute to inflammation that we have no control over, but we can control what we ingest.

I thought I was avoiding anything inflammatory, until I discovered Red Dye 40 ( and other numbers!). Check your labels...what you think may be safe contains crap like red dye, msg, other chemical additives that I cannot spell or pronounce and that our bodies do not recognize.

Believe me when I tell you, I have suffered from a myriad of conditions that I blame on inflammation. Now, many, many years ago.....I put it all together, and have tried to eliminate most inflammatory substances from my diet. I'm not perfect, but I do the best I can.

Besides good health, let me tell you what else can be achieved when you eliminate sugar, flour and crap from your diet.....You will improve your skin tone. Ladies (and gents) I am telling you, the fountain of youth rests with an anti inflammatory lifestyle.

I am fifty years old (Yes, I said it 50). I use to lie about my age because I could and everyone believed me. But, I'm going to be honest and tell you that I am 50, that's me ( with my beloved Jackson Browne) in my avatar picture, and I have another picture on my profile.

These aren’t faked or photoshopped and I have more if anyone wants proof!!!!(no Russian Brides here!!!!)

I have NEVER had botox, plastic surgery, restalyne, boob implants, lipo, or anything else. Because I follow a diet relatively free from inflammatory substances, I believe my skin has not suffered from the effects of free radicals. I seriously don't have wrinkles and my hair is full (although I do have to touch up a bit of gray).

Please don't think I am all full of myself, I'm just sharing something that has amazingly worked for me.

I don't use retin A or anything like that. Just Oil of Olay for sensitive skin and make-up you can buy at Wal Mart or Target. I even tan (not burn, there is a difference), with no ill effects The secret is on the inside, just like Fawn says.

Follow her advice, add suppliments, don't eat junk, eat healthy fats, avoid soy, DON'T SMOKE.

Get some exercise at least five times a weak. The fountain of youth and of health will be yours!

Thanks for listening to my long testimonial! I just wanted to share some of the truths I have found, thru trial and error.

[fawn]

ah such true words spoken above. Nancy you're beautiful!
I too love Jackson Browne........

[NancyElle]

Originally Posted by fawn

ah such true words spoken above. Nancy you're beautiful!
I too love Jackson Browne........

ahhhh beautiful, intelligent, generous Miss Fawn...we are soul sistahs!

[MountainGirl]

WOW! What a great thread.

Thank you Fawn for all your wisdom and gentle advice. You are a wealth of information and an asset to us all!

[NancyElle]

Just wanted to add something.

My dear, darling, now deceased GP told me to take BIOFLAVINOIDS, years ago. These help with inflammation, according to my Doc.

I mean, I think I got this advice in like 1979 or something, due to some wacky migraines I was getting. This wonderful MD was giving very controversial advice for the time. He was such a maverick.

This gifted man studied the holistic approach way before it was trendy, and advocated suppliments, chelation therapy, minimal antibiotics, hypnosis and visualization....

He delivered me and was my doctor, my parents doc, my grandparents doc, and the doc of various familial offspring, including MY daughter~

He also was a pall bearer for my father and sat by my mother's side in Hospice, right before she died. He is the only doctor who ever made house calls, that I ever knew.

Sadly, he passed at 89 last year.....I don't think I'll find another one like him; however, I am eternally thankful for his wisdom, advice and brave attitude. I think he advocated low carb before Atkins ever emerged!

Anyway, bioflavinoids...a stellar suppliment...research and see if it might work for you.

[NancyElle]

Originally Posted by fawn

snipped for brevity... Many health claims for ACV and again, as preventive the only vinegar we use. oops I lied. I buy a gallon of the cheap white stuff for my bamboo floors.

OMGoodness, white vinegar for my pergo and ceramic tile, too! No streaks, no film...perfect!

APPLE CIDER for everything else!!!!!!!

[Purple Crayon]

Originally Posted by fawn

People don't realize how liberal Atkins really is.......they just get stuck in induction and think that's the only way they can live without gaining or stalling.

Amen to that!

The media would have us believe Atkins is all beef, butter and bacon with no vegetables or fruits. When the fact is that Atkins only prohibits sugar and refined foods like white flour. The rest of what you eat is up to your individual taste and tolerance.

[Purple Crayon]

Originally Posted by NancyElle

OMGoodness, white vinegar for my pergo and ceramic tile, too! No streaks, no film...perfect!

APPLE CIDER for everything else!!!!!!!

And don't forget the laundry! A cup of white vinegar in the rinse water makes the towels nice and fluffy soft.