Letha's Asian Health Secrets

Migraine-trigger Foods to Avoid

Letha — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 17:51:45 +0000

If you tend to get migraines, certain foods and the time of day you eat them can trigger your pain. Never start the day with a raw, cold or green juice because they need very strong digestive energy to tolerate them. Our digestion is weakest (stomach and spleen Qi) from 7AM – about 11AM according to meridian theory so start the day with hot tea or coffee and something simple, low fat, and nourishing. Eat regular meals at regular times to avoid sugar spikes that may aggravate a tension headache or spaciness. Some very healthy foods such as nuts, chocolate or coffee may be a pain trigger for you. If you notice a headache within an hour or two of eating them, avoid them for a week to see if that eliminates your pain. Some people suffer headaches after eating fat or fried foods but find that adding healthy Omega oils that improve circulation also improves headache pains. Here are other foods to avoid: processed meats, aged cheese, alcohol and chemical additives.

Mind and Food

Letha — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 03:00:06 +0000

Mind and taste work together in a delicate balance to bring satisfaction when eating foods we love. We crave them and often consume beyond what we need. The satisfaction gene may be lacking for some. For others foods represent comfort during times of stress or boredom, company during loneliness, or completion of desires whether or not they heal or harm us. One magazine editor wrote, “I have always been careful not to consume unregulated and unlabeled GMO (genetically modified) foods like corn and sugar so as to protect my kidneys. I have always eaten healthy foods. The problem was that I simply consumed too much. Worse, I loved getting lost within the comforting sensation of food by essentially going unconscious when I ate.” Becoming conscious about eating habits it hard for Americans. We are traditionally ground-breakers, consumers, and trend-setters. A yogi once advised to eat no more than we can comfortably hold in the palms of our hands. While that is being conscious, eating less is not enough. We have to eat wisely and according to our energy type and addictions. Craving sweets or pasta are more a problem for some people than others. We need to address our energy and addictions before we can be conscious, free and healthy and slim as we want to be. If you crave sweets, breads, sugars and empty calories you may develop a blood sugar problem. If you crave spices and hot sauce you may develop complexion blemishes, nervous tension and inflammatory pains. Mindful eating involves eating wisely, selectively, not just less.

Pet MRSA

Letha — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 16:32:32 +0000

VCStar.com 4/20/2012: One of the biggest public health issues we face today is the presence of potentially life threatening “superbug” bacterial infections that do not respond to common antibiotics. One of the most common is MRSA (sometimes pronounced mur-sah) or Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus. According to the Centers for Disease Control about one out of a hundred people carry MRSA. 20,000 die each year from MRSA infections that can’t be treated by usual antibiotics.

What is not commonly known is that MRSA can be passed on to a dog or cat. These animals now become carriers and can retransmit infections to humans, especially kids, pregnant mothers, the elderly and adults with a weakened immune system from diseases like asthma and diabetes.

Companion animals used in nursing homes are at higher risk of MRSA infection because of the healthcare environment. The American Veterinarian Medical Association has published precautions regarding visits, licking and touching these animals. Household pets may show obvious signs of an infection at a wound, or other locations like an eye, but MRSA can become “colonized”, meaning they have the superbug in their body, but have no visible signs of illness.

The ability to detect and treat these pets dramatically improves outcomes for the entire household. Reported in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases, a 31 year old mother was diagnosed with an MRSA infection and was treated. Within weeks, she became infected again. Immediate testing in her home showed that her 1-year-old daughter was colonized in the nose and throat with MRSA. Their apparently healthy pet dog was also tested and found to be infected with the same MRSA. In this case the mother most likely brought the germs in to the household, but more importantly, their dog served as a reservoir for reinfecting the mother and baby. Fortunately this household infection was eliminated without a prolonged series of reinfections.

Despite these published reports in the medical community, the potential for household dogs and cats as a source of MRSA infections in humans is relatively unknown to the general public. Advances in laboratory technology now make it easier for researchers to determine if a sample from a household pet is identical to that of a sample from its owner. This high-tech “crime scene investigation” has revealed that the transmission between owners and pets is much more common than previously thought. Approximately 20% of our household dogs, while apparently healthy, are colonized with a form of staph germs, including MRSA. Studies indicate cat’s rates are somewhat higher.

How do you know if your pets are a source of MRSA germs? We need to recognize that the pet was most likely infected by a human carrying MRSA. Pets become contaminated when they lick a human’s body.

So first, we need to focus on the family, immediate friends, where you work and neighbors that are part of your household. If anyone within that circle has been diagnosed with an MRSA infection it would be a good idea to check the pet. Second, if the pet shows signs of a wound that does not heal or an ear or eye infection that persists, this condition may be a sign of a serious bacterial infection and you should have the pet tested. A human becomes contaminated when they snuggle with a pet or pet an animal’s fur.

Here are some “red flag” situations where an MRSA carrier in the household could be a serious threat for:

• Infants and young children

– Exposure to non-treatable bacterial infections amongst the young can create a serious immediate medical condition

• Immune compromised individuals/patients

– Pregnant women, diabetics, individuals undergoing chemotherapeutic or radiation therapy for cancer, patients with kidney failure, post transplant patients

• Pre and post operative patients

– Wounds associated with surgery can be infected by MRSA

• The elderly ( age >65) and nursing home residents

There is no need to panic and test every pet. But the evaluation of household pets should be considered if one of these “red flag” situations exists within your household.

Veterinary Diagnostics Institute (VDI) in Simi Valley, a licensed veterinary laboratory provider, offers a sample collection kit to determine if our pets are infected or colonized with these bacteria. The kit, called Avail™ MRSA can be ordered on line by going to www.vdilab.com or calling 805-577-6742. A swab is used to collect mucosa from the pet’s nose. This sample is sealed in its own container and mailed to the lab for testing. The sample is cultured for MRSA and within three days VDI provides a detailed veterinary lab report. If the results are positive for MRSA, you should contact your veterinarian and schedule an appointment for the pet. Treatment of MRSA will be prescribed by the veterinarian.

The best prevention is to wash your hands after playing with your dog or cat. Soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds should be sufficient. Alcohol hand disinfectants are a convenient way to do the job. Humans are also susceptible to these animal-borne bacteria when they are scratched or have contact with an animal’s saliva, or dander. Care should be taken in handling bedding.

We don’t have to give up our family’s furry friends. After all, pets enrich our family life. So taking a few precautions can protect you, and your kids from getting seriously ill.

Testosterone and your Heart

Letha — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 03:53:22 +0000

A new study suggests that the male hormone testosterone may improve heart function. This heart/adrenal connection has been long recognized in traditional Chinese medicine. In fact, a common acupuncture treatment for chronic heart failure includes points for kidney, adrenal and heart strength. Python Extra pills a popular natural vegetarian supplement by Vitamin Shoppe that is suggested for male potency and stamina includes tonic herbs for the heart (artic root AKA rhodiola) and precursors to testosterone, including tribulus and herbs for circulation including gotu kola. The easily available pill offers a balanced formula that supports energy, mood, and circulation. Testosterone is also necessary for women’s health. However, excess use of testosterone may result in menstrual and other discomforts. Here is more information on the study done on testosterone and heart health.

In the study, testosterone patches and injections improved the breathing and exercise abilities of people with heart failure, a chronic inability of the heart to pump enough blood to the rest of the body. Although most of the study participants were men, the researchers said the results would likely apply to women as well, through much smaller doses of testosterone. Some heart failure patients have symptoms even after standard therapies, such as drugs called beta blockers and ACE inhibitors, said study researcher Dr. Justin Ezekowitz. An inability to exercise is one of the hallmark symptoms of heart failure, Ezekowitz said.

“They physically cannot walk as far or as fast or as much as they could when they were healthy,” Ezekowitz said. “Testosterone appears to be a promising therapy” to improve exercise ability in heart failure patients, the researchers said.

Uses of testosterone herbs

Herbs that produce natural testosterone are wellknown in Asian herbal medicine. Chinese herbalists use cuscuta, yin yang hao (AKA lusty goat weed) and tribulus among others. Tribulus is known to Ayurvedic herbalists as gokshura. Tonic herbs that increase testosterone are used in complex formulas to reduce back and leg pain resulting from muscle weakness, fatigue, low spirits, low sexual drive, energy and endurance. They may be used in rejuventating formulas for men and women who suffer from chronic chills, shortness of breath, low metabolism, poor memory, insomnia and reduced appetite. Chronic heart failure results when muscles become too weak to pump blood from the heart and heart qi and blood become congested.

Heart failure may result from severe emotional shock, illness and infection, chronic weakness, and resulting poor circulation. Useful herbs for heart health have been covered at this website and include the single herb hawthorn and the combination HeartCare by Himalaya which contains arjuna to reduce cholesterol and strengthen the heart muscles.

Laugh for Health

Letha — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 02:52:30 +0000

I always thought laughing was good for the heart. Whether it is a sign of contentment or it can help create it is a topic for study at least by some. A recent BBC health article reports that depression increases the risk of heart trouble and that “optimistic” people suffer less frequently from heart attacks and stroke. You don’t need to tell me. My dear talented Mother who always calls herself an optimist is a survivor, and a nice person to live with too. It may be a good idea to watch a funny movie sometimes just to feel better. Laughter improves blood flow whereas depression narrows and stresses blood vessels.

Happy April

Letha — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 21:34:41 +0000

Whoever said that April is the cruelest month had not seen enough butterflies.

Letha Hadady in NYC Chinatown

Letha — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 16:24:36 +0000

This video filmed last fall in New York City’s Chinatown is posted at ConsumerEyes.com a major New York based Marketing Firm. It covers well-known and unknown Chinese herbs that protect health and well-being–from teas, mushrooms, and heart-protector herbs to snakes used for medicine.

Cacao = Cocoa = Chocolate

Letha — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 15:08:48 +0000

Walking through the beautiful Fruit and Spice Park in Homestead, Florida I see large pods growing on trees. Inside are cacao beans, the Brits called them cocoa, and they are used to make chocolate. Cacao or Cocoa is the most super of the superfoods, a high source of essential minerals, antioxidants and mood elevators. Pure dried cocoa bean contains no sugar and healthy fat. Shaped like an almond, it has a bitter/sweet flavor that satisfies your chocolate hunger as it boosts energy and mood. You can use it as a weight loss food. Do you crave chocolate during your PMS or other stress? Cocoa stimulates the production of feel-good brain chemicals.

Cocoa contains tryptophan, an essential amino acid required for the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Enhanced serotonin levels can quell anxiety and enhance mood. Eating cocoa also helps to release endorphins, the body’s natural opiates. Endorphins are what give runners that natural high. Eating cocoa can have a similar effect and may explain why some people become self proclaimed chocoholics.

PMS Symptoms: Magnesium deficiency is known to aggravate the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Forty percent of women admit to chocolate cravings. This may be the body’s attempt to obtain sufficient magnesium levels. Since cocoa nibs are a natural snack without added sugar, they may be a healthier way to satisfy monthly chocolate cravings.

Appetite Control: Coco contains chromium an important mineral for stabilizing blood sugar and reducing appetite.

Improve Circulation: Cocoa is a great source of flavanols, powerful antioxidants that play an important role in circulation. Flavanols help to prevent clogged arteries by helping to stop fatty acids from oxidizing in the bloodstream. Flavanols also help make blood platelets less sticky, which reduces the risk of blood clots, heart attacks and strokes.

Improve Cholesterol Levels. Cocoa contains healthy monounsaturated fats. The same fats found in olive oil. These healthy fats have been shown to raise good cholesterol (HDL) levels.

SuperFoods to the Rescue

Letha — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 15:59:29 +0000

Dr. Steven Pratt coined the term in 2004 with his first book, “SuperFoods Rx: Fourteen Foods That Will Change Your Life.”

According to Pratt, a superfood has three qualifications: It has to be readily available to the public, it has to contain nutrients that are known to enhance longevity, and its health benefits have to be backed by peer-reviewed, scientific studies.

Pratt lists salmon, broccoli, spinach, berries and green tea as a few of his favorites. His website, SuperFoodsRx.com, gives 20 more examples.

Dr. Steven Pratt

A nice friendly enthusiastic Tiger energy face and body. He is in good shape. Although he has never had weight issues as a Tiger he may have joint pains, allergies or headaches in spring. So his highly recommended super cleansing foods will work well for him and everyone else who wants healthy weight loss.

See FEED YOUR TIGER to find your energy type, common addictions, health issues and best weight-management foods and herbs.

Bacteria vs. Bacteria – 细菌与细菌

Letha — Sat, 07 Apr 2012 14:23:03 +0000

From the UK Telegraph: Already 25,000 Europeans die every year from antibiotic-resistant infections, while worldwide there are some 650,000 annual cases of multi-drug-resistant TB, half of which can’t be cured even with the best care. “Many common and life-threatening infections,” warns the WHO, “are becoming difficult or even impossible to treat.” The US government’s Centres for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that half of antibiotics (in hospitals) are inappropriately prescribed. They are frequently given out, often under patient pressure, to tackle colds and other viral infections where they do no good. And world travel, immigration, and health tourism spread the resulting resistant bacteria around the globe.

It is also becoming ever clearer, however, that intensive agriculture is playing an important role. As Dr Margaret Chan, head of the WHO says, worldwide “we use more antibiotics in healthy animals than in unhealthy humans”. In America, about 80 per cent are routinely placed in feed, largely to fatten the animals up. That is now banned in Europe, but universal dosing continues, with factory farmers keeping pigs and poultry on the drugs continually to pre-empt possible infections, rather than treating them when they occur.

What does this mean to us? Someday in the not too distant future a strept throat or simple cut could become much more dangerous even deadly. Surgeries such as joint replacement may become more difficult and life-threatening. The Telegraph article stressed that drug companies are not very interested in developing new better antibiotics because of the money factor. A drug for diabetes, for example, is a life time source of revenue whereas an antibiotic is used for a few days. Again greed wins out.

How might we fight drug-resistant bacteria that ignore modern antibiotics? It may be similar to growing healthy vegetables in good soil. Give soil the bacteria it needs and the gut the bacteria it needs to be healthy. Pit healthy bacteria against the bad. What foods contain healthy bacteria? Pu Erh tea is aged with healthy bacteria that can rebalances the gut environment. It is famous as a rejuvenating beverage that assures long life.

从英国电讯报“：已有25000欧洲人每年死于抗生素耐药感染，而全世界有约65万年度多耐药结核病例，其中一半是不能治愈甚至最好的照顾。 “Many common and life-threatening infections,” warns the WHO, “are becoming difficult or even impossible to treat.” The US government’s Centres for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that half of antibiotics (in hospitals) are inappropriately prescribed.警告说：“许多常见和威胁生命的感染，”世卫组织“越来越困难，甚至无法治疗。”美国政府的疾病控制和预防估计，一半的抗生素（医院）是不适当的规定中心。 They are frequently given out, often under patient pressure, to tackle colds and other viral infections where they do no good.他们经常发出，通常病人的压力下，以对付感冒及其他病毒感染，他们都没有好处。 And world travel, immigration, and health tourism spread the resulting resistant bacteria around the globe.和世界旅游旅游，移民，卫生遍布全球产生抗药性的细菌。

It is also becoming ever clearer, however, that intensive agriculture is playing an important role.它也变得越来越清晰，然而，集约农业，发挥了重要作用。 As Dr Margaret Chan, head of the WHO says, worldwide “we use more antibiotics in healthy animals than in unhealthy humans”.作为负责人陈冯富珍博士，世卫组织说，全球“我们使用比在不健康的人体健康的动物抗生素”。 In America, about 80 per cent are routinely placed in feed, largely to fatten the animals up.在美国，大约80％是经常放置在饲料，主要是为了养肥动物。 That is now banned in Europe, but universal dosing continues, with factory farmers keeping pigs and poultry on the drugs continually to pre-empt possible infections, rather than treating them when they occur.现在在欧洲被禁止，但普遍剂量继续维持工厂的农民对猪和家禽的药物不断抢先可能感染，而不是发生时，他们对待他们。

A new report by the Soil Association has brought together a formidable mass of scientific evidence to show that resistant bacteria are widespread in agriculture, and spreading to people: several studies have shown that those found in human guts are often genetically similar to those in livestock, but different from their non-resistant counterparts.土壤协会的一个新报告汇集了强大的群众的科学证据显示抗药性的细菌在农业中的广泛，并蔓延到人们：一些研究表明，人的胆量发现那些经常在家畜的基因相似，但是从他们的耐非同行不同。 . 。 . 。

What does this mean to us?这是什么意思给我们吗？ Someday in the not too distant future a strept throat or simple cut could become much more dangerous even deadly. 1链霉喉咙或简单的剪裁，在不太遥远的将来有一天可能变得更加危险甚至是致命的。 Surgeries such as joint replacement may become more difficult and life-threatening.如关节置换手术，可能会变得更加困难而危及生命。 The Telegraph article stressed that drug companies are not very interested in developing new better antibiotics because of the money factor.电讯报“的文章强调，制药公司在开发新的更好的抗生素，因为钱的因素不是很感兴趣。 A drug for diabetes, for example, is a life time source of revenue whereas an antibiotic is used for a few days.一种治疗糖尿病的药物，例如，续航时间的收入来源，而几天使用抗生素。 Again greed wins out.再次贪婪赢了。

How might we fight drug-resistant bacteria that ignore modern antibiotics?我们怎么可能打无视现代抗生素的抗药性细菌？ It may be similar to growing healthy vegetables in good soil.这可能是类似的健康蔬菜生长在良好的土壤。 Give soil the bacteria it needs and the gut the bacteria it needs to be healthy.给土壤中的细菌，它需要和肠道的细菌，它需要有健康的。 Pit healthy bacteria against the bad.对抗坏健康的细菌。 What foods contain healthy bacteria?哪些食物中含有健康的细菌？ Pu Erh tea is aged with healthy bacteria that can rebalances the gut environment.普洱茶年龄与健康的细菌，可以重新平衡肠道环境。 It is famous as a rejuvenating beverage that assures long life.它是作为恢复体力的饮料，保证寿命长而闻名。