We all have highs and lows in our life. It is inevitable and it is life. The lows of life are sad, tragic, depressing, and awful, right? What if the lows of your life were actually blessings in disguise or experiences to help you grow?
My 2011 Christmas Holiday was spent in one of those blessings and lessons. On December 25th 2011 while everyone else was celebrating Christmas, I was learning that I needed immediate surgery.
The Highs
It all started with our 5-day vacation to Austin, Texas. I was 12 weeks pregnant and besides a lot of fatigue, nothing was abnormal. It was an awesome vacation and Saturday December 17th was one of the top 12 days of my life. Starting with a morning walk to a delicious Mexican Diner, followed by a trip to Zilker Park and a ride on the Zilker train, then off to the Austin Nature Center. Austin was beautiful, but it was the family time that made it so special.
Then that afternoon my husband and I set out on a 90 minute journey in the Hill Country of Texas where we saw hundreds of little deer and spent quality time talking. We arrived at the beautiful Meyer Bed and Breakfast, got ready and headed to one of the most special and beautiful weddings I had ever been too. A day of family, fun, friends, and romance who could ask for more?
The Lows
The next morning, I had breakfast with some of my favorite people including my spiritual mentors Dr. Jack and Lavonne Atnip. We laughed and joked and shared stories of how much our lives have been blessed by this couple. But somewhere, something inside of me wasn’t feeling right. I was really tired and thought maybe I just ate too much cake. As I kissed Dr. Lavonne goodbye she said, “you take care of yourself and get some rest.” A normal, typical thing that someone would say to a pregnant woman, but something inside of me just didn’t feel right.
On the drive back to Austin, this once beautiful terrain made me nauseous and irritable. We arrived home and I laid down to rest for a while, but I just couldn’t get comfortable. My back ached, my legs felt weird, and then all of sudden I felt something coming out of me. I rushed to the bathroom to see bright red blood. OH NO not again. Am I having a miscarriage?
My first trip to the Emergency since a car accident in 1997, confirmed that the baby inside of me had no fetal heartbeat and was only the size of a 6-week fetus even though now I was about 13 weeks pregnant. They said you are having a miscarriage. Then they sent me home to mis-carry my baby.
My husband and I were heart broken as we had gone through this in June of 2011 as well. Our baby Rachel would have been born January 2012 and now our baby Jesse who would have been born June 30th 2012 was going to heaven too.
But as I said before, I trusted God completely and knew He had His reasons. So although sad, I started to see the blessings in it.
The Blessings
God had given me one of the most amazing days of my life.
He gave our family time to be “on vacation” for 3 weeks.
He ordained 2 weeks with my aunt and uncle who cared and nurtured me, my husband and our 22 month old son Joshua in a wonderful and loving way.
God blessed us with 3 weeks of sun and springtime weather.
I got to go heal for a week at Jones Health Essentials in Florida where I got to spend quality time with our in-laws, nieces and nephews.
We had excellent health insurance for the first time in 15 years.
We were 5 minutes away from one of the best hospitals I had ever been to.
I spent several days in the bathroom bleeding and what I thought was miscarrying my baby. Me, being a strong willed and natural Doctor, I sometimes think I know everything. I thought I was fine… but I wasn’t. It’s not that I didn’t listen to my body which I am known to do… but I didn’t follow the doctor’s directions… right away… and had I waited much longer, I might have lost my life.
The Lessons and more Blessings:
My Ego for natural medicine was so big, I would brag all the time that I haven’t needed to take any drug or even an aspirin in 11 years. A part of me thought “I will never need medical care”, “I will never need drugs.” “essential oils can take care of everything”.
Well I sure learned my lesson.
A second emergency room visit on Christmas day showed that I would need immediate surgery or I would risk never having babies again or worse.
I would need anesthesia for this surgery and the thought of surgery and drugs scared me a lot at first. I was very frightened and then like a blanket of snow, this PEACE fell over me like you can’t imagine. (more on that in another blog)
The Blessings and Lessons of St. David’s South Austin Medical Center
For more than 13 years I have interned, taught and/or assisted clients at more than 17 hospitals all over the United States, including top ranked hospitals like Stanford. Out of 17 hospitals, I have never seen the excellent care and outstanding service that St. David’s South Austin Medical Center had. In all areas, they were excellent from registration to wheeling you out the door.
Have you ever been to an ER that was beautiful and clean, quick, comfortable, and had courteous staff? St. David’s did.
But it was my experience with the Doctors and Nurses who blessed me the most.
Dr. Glen, the ER doc, was compassionate and kind.
Joyce, my hospital room nurse was attentive, listened, and even let me put some essential oils on to relax.
Nancy, my OR nurse, talked with me while I had a 20 minute wait before being wheeled into surgery.
I was blessed with one of the best anesthesiologist in the state who listened to me and respected my wishes.
But the most outstanding doctor I have had the privilege to work with was Dr. Hemkumar, a female OBGYN who performed the surgery. She spent time talking with us, explaining the procedure, answering our questions. She had been a doctor in India delivering hundreds of babies and then went back to school here in the US for medicine again. She had 2 of her own children and really understood motherhood. She was compassionate, personable and really connected with her patients. I was blessed by her skill and person and St. David’s is highly blessed to have her on staff.
The Lesson I Learned Through the Blessing of St David’s Hospital is that we all are needed. Nature’s medicine as well as traditional medical intervention. Had I not had my medical intervention on December 25th 2011 and the excellent care of St. David’s Hospital, I may not be here to talk to you now.
After spending a day and a half at St. David’s hospital, I checked out okay to go back to my aunt’s to rest and heal. But before we left, a wonderful volunteer named Francesca came to wheel me downstairs. She was an elderly woman who had lost her husband and daughter, yet was one of the most pleasant person you have ever met. I realized then that life would be filled with highs and lows. But even with hurting hearts, we can choose happy.
Dr. Mary Starr Carter is known as the Total Wellness Doc. She has been training individuals about Natural Health Solutions for over 13 years. She is trained as a Chiropractor and has studied under the world’s foremost leaders in natural medicine. She is a mother and a wife and has created a balanced and total wellness life for herself and thousands of her clients using her simple wholistic approach to health and wellness. Her coaching, classes and ebooks help clients with Fibromyalgia, Hormone and Adrenal issues, Asthma, Diabetes, Weight problems, Thyroid and Chronic pain find resources and solutions to better health.
We publish newsletters and blogposts twice a week for our readers for general education purposes only. We cover topics that are related to achieving and maintaining total wellness which includes our emotional, physical, spiritual and financial health.
Healthy Halloween Tips
By Dr. Mary Starr Carter
Healthy Halloween Tips:
1) Frame your kids for how much candy they can eat during Halloween and each day afterwards.
2) If you have will power go through the candy and freeze candy bars and treats in small portion size snack bags.
3) Choose lower calorie treats like lollipops. Dum Dums or Organic Lollipops
4) Be the Geek who gives out apples
5) Play-Doh makes a Halloween Trick or Treat size you can give out.
6) Family Video sells Video Rental Cards for a $1 each (great if you get a dozen or so trick or treaters)
7) Make sure you kids have enzymes if they are going to eat all those carbohydrates like Essentialzyme-4 by Young Living
8) Have Young Living's Peppermint oil on hand to rub on belly's that overeat
9) Have your children drink lots of water during treat season
10) THROW IT AWAY…. do you really need all that sugar poison… (of course this is my vote)
Got Feedback? Please share your comments below. Your comments help us serve you better.
Dr. Mary Starr Carter is known as the Total Wellness Doc. She has been training individuals about Natural Health Solutions for over 13 years. She is trained as a Chiropractor and has studied under the world’s foremost leaders in natural medicine. She is a mother and a wife and has created a balanced and total wellness life for herself and thousands of her clients using her simple wholistic approach to health and wellness. Her coaching, classes and ebooks help clients with Fibromyalgia, Hormone and Adrenal issues, Asthma, Diabetes, Weight problems, Thyroid and Chronic pain find resources and solutions to better health.
We publish newsletters and blogposts twice a week for our readers for general education purposes only. We cover topics that are related to achieving and maintaining total wellness which includes our emotional, physical, spiritual and financial health.
My husband and I pulled out the scale after vacation to see the numbers once again go up. He gained 10Lbs and I gained 5% bodyfat.. AGGGHHH. We both have realized we have allowed ourselves to slowly gain weight, get out of shape, and begin a spiral of POOR HEALTH. Extra weight on our body before the holiday season and winter is not good. Did you know the average American puts on 11lbs between October 31st – January 1st and 5-10lbs during winter months?
Don't get me wrong I love the holidays and I love vacations with my family. At my amazing Southern Cooking Mother- In-laws home good food is always around along with not so good food. I can always start my vacation saying no to desserts and then by mid week I have one of these decadent desserts and that's it…. It is all over. By the end of vacation I don't care what it tastes like I just want sugar and bread.
Vacations aren't bad for us we all need time away, we all need days we can just break loose of food restrictions and eat sugar, breads, soda and so on, but it's when we continue this trend after the holidays that things get bad. Constantly eating and drinking junk foods will lead to a junky body. Below is a trailer from the movie Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead I think it would be worth your time to watch it for free on www.hulu.com or rent it.
Let me know what you think below in the comments section. My husband and I were both motivated to start a REBOOT. In Monday's Blog I will share with you what our results were and what may be the best way to start for you.
Hospital Doctor Recognizes that Lifestyle Causes the Majority of Sick Patients
By Dr. Mary Starr Carter
Diabetes affects 25.8 million people and 8.3% of the U.S. population. According to CDC at least 7 million are undiagnosed. Out of these numbers, 215,000 are below age 20 and in 2010 alone, there were 1.9 million newly diagnosed patients.
That is a piece of staggering news and most of the issues started because of lifestyle…
Added to the above news, CDC reported it contributed to $116 billion in direct medical costs and $58 billion of indirect medical costs (due to disability, work loss or premature mortality). Diabetes will also lead to kidney failure, heart disease, hypertension, stroke and some cases blindness and amputating limbs.
People with diabetes have higher medical bills compared to non-diabetes people with the cost of doctor’s visits, hospital stays (for some) and insulin and oral medication.
That is just one example of health problems and huge medical bills that Americans are facing that is related to our lifestyle…the food we eat, the lack of exercise and the lack of education of nutrition.
Childhood obesity has tripled in the last 30 years. The CDC defined being overweight and obesity as:
Overweight is defined as having excess body weight for a particular height from fat, muscle, bone, water, or a combination of these factors. Obesity is defined as having excess body fat.
We can make a change as a family and as a community if we are willing to learn and implement:
Healthier diet
Physical activities
Nutritional supplements
Education/coaching on healthy diets and total wellness
Willingness to make a change, doing it and having the encouragement and support to continue through for long term health and wellness
Below is a video of my short conversation with Dr. Marc Walker, a hospital doctor who sees patients in the hospital, where 80% of the cases are lifestyle related diseases. He said we should take pro-active steps to prevent diseases by nutritional supplementation and exercise.
As your Total Wellness Doc, I would like to come alongside and help you reach your total wellness and take steps to a healthier lifestyle.
Got feedback? Please share your comments below. Your comments help us serve you better.
Dr. Mary Starr Carter is known as the Total Wellness Doc. She has been training individuals about Natural Health Solutions for over 13 years. She is trained as a Chiropractor and has studied under the world’s foremost leaders in natural medicine. She is a mother and a wife and has created a balanced and total wellness life for herself and thousands of her clients using her simple wholistic approach to health and wellness. Her coaching, classes and ebooks help clients with Fibromyalgia, Hormone and Adrenal issues, Asthma, Diabetes, Weight problems, Thyroid and Chronic pain find resources and solutions to better health.
We publish newsletters and blogposts twice a week for our readers for general education purposes only. We cover topics that are related to achieving and maintaining total wellness which includes our emotional, physical, spiritual and financial health.
Infrared Sauna and Your Total Wellness
By Dr. Mary Starr Carter
The body accumulates toxins just from everyday breathing, eating and living. The less movement and exercise we get the less our bodies can eliminate these toxins. Sweating is very good for us because it is nature’s way of removing toxins from the body. But think about how often do you really sweat?
Once a week, once a month….. Never ….
Sweating is a great way to get and stay healthy.
Verda Jones found Far Infrared to be very healing for her arthritis pain condition in her hands and back.
“The thing that I can tell instantly is the pain relief during and after the sauna…”
I recently visited Jones Health Essentials after seeing Verda Jones in April for the birth of my son in NY. She was slim, fit and about 10lbs lighter. I asked her “what have you been doing?” She said well everyday she was sweating outside in her garden and then 3 times a week she walked for 20 minutes on her treadmill and laid on her Far Infrared Bio Mat for 30 minutes.
The Biomat is a mat that contains Far Infrared technology along with Ion and Mineral technology to super charge it and create even more of a relaxing feeling. She says the BioMat really helps her relax when she is stressed. Well the result was 10lbs released, a lot less pain, better health and about 5 years more youthfulness in her skin and face as I observed her.
Here are some keys, how Far Infrared Heat, Mats and Saunas work:
(This information is not meant to diagnose and prescribe; it is taken from the literature received with the BioMat, and Infrared Sauna.) :
Strengthens the cardiovascular system
Deep Far Infrared penetration (up to 1.5 inches some literature says 6-8 inches)
Detoxifies heavy metals, hydrocarbon residues, alcohol, nicotine, sodium and cholesterol.
Helps purify fat cells, burns calories and controls weight.
Improves and clears cellulite.
Most effective way in burning calories. Burns up to 500 calories in one full session.
Effective for treating sprains, muscles spasms, and joint stiffness: relieves aches and pains.
Improves you immune system by sweating at a lower more comfortable temperature than a conventional hot sauna. Increases overall health and resistance to disease.
Sharpens senses and relieves stress, leaving you felling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Improves skin within a few minutes. Helps scars and burns.
Acne, psoriasis, and eczema conditions will also improve.
(I agree with this one. My skin was so soft after this treatment)
The Infrared Sauna stimulates endorphins of the brain and kills organisms like bacteria and parasites.
Increases blood flow
Destroys cancer and viral cells without harming surrounding healthy cells. (Harvard Med School)
Now this is very interesting because Nancy Weber, a good friend and colleague in Young living Essential Oils, told me just this week that in July, she was struggling with Lyme’s disease and using Essential oils to help her condition. When she started using her Young Living oils along with her Saunas she started getting quicker and more dramatic results. “The Far Infrared sauna drives the oils in much deeper” When I saw her for the first time in 2 years she looked 10 years younger. I couldn’t believe it, even after her terrible summer.
So enhance your infrared sauna with Young Living essential oils before your treatment. Don’t forget that you really need to take a shower in clean chlorinated free water after your sauna to wash off the toxins.
So far during my vacation I have only done one Sauna treatment and 2 Biomat treatments. My skin and face are clear and smooth; I got rid of a headache with the treatments and feel really refreshed. I LOVE Far Infrared Treatments.
If you struggle with Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, Cancer, or an Autoimmune Condition you may want to invest in a Sauna. It may be the piece of health puzzle you are missing.
Please share your comments below. Your comments help us serve you better.
Dr. Mary Starr Carter is known as the Total Wellness Doc. She has been training individuals about Natural Health Solutions for over 13 years. She is trained as a Chiropractor and has studied under the world’s foremost leaders in natural medicine. She is a mother and a wife and has created a balanced and total wellness life for herself and thousands of her clients using her simple wholistic approach to health and wellness. Her coaching, classes and ebooks help clients with Fibromyalgia, Hormone and Adrenal issues, Asthma, Diabetes, Weight problems, Thyroid and Chronic pain find resources and solutions to better health.
We publish newsletters and blogposts twice a week for our readers for general education purposes only. We cover topics that are related to achieving and maintaining total wellness which includes our emotional, physical, spiritual and financial health.
12 Secrets of Reforming Eating Patterns to Reshape Your Body
The following information was gathered from the recent Young Living Convention workshop with Marc Schreuder, Young Living’s Director of Product Formulation held in Orlando, Florida.
What do you think is the secret to losing weight? Many companies have come up with the latest how-tos and consumers have bought into billions of dollars worth of products and services, yet America as a country is getting fatter and fatter.
Over the years, our food portion and consumption has increased. We are eating more food. Our Body Mass Index (BMI) has increased over the last 20 years, that the country even come out with a statistic for the ‘fat belt’ (states with the most obese and overweight population). It is not unique to America alone. In the United Kingdom, the government is introducing the ‘Fat Tax’.
If there are so many diet programs that worked for many individuals, why not for millions of us? Losing weight involves our mind and body. Without working on your mind, you will not have the body you want.
We need a strategy to lose fat. We have discussed in our past articles here at The Total Wellness System that lack of sleep leads to obesity and allergy medication can cause weight gain. We will discuss in great length in our new Free Report and Coaching Programs.
Here are 12 simple keys you can follow immediately:
Recognize Addiction: The first rule of sustainable weight loss and keeping it off is recognizing you have food addiction. A lot of us are in denial. If you don’t recognize that, this key is of no value to you. Once we recognize our addiction and that we are ‘fed up’ with being overweight and over fed, we can start working on ourselves.
Studies show that the dopamine in obese and overweight people is the same as drug users. The brain of a food addict and the brain of a cocaine addict are the same.
Stay Motivated: This is unique to everyone. What motivates me may not motivate you. You have to find out what motivates you…is it your children, your looks and your total wellness? You need to find a reason to change your habit. If you don’t have a reason, you will not be motivated.
We are creatures of habit. We have our favorite food, places to eat and favorites of everything. It takes work to change our habits. What you do today, will affect your tomorrow. Our lifestyle determines our lifespan and also there is a multigenerational effect link to our weight and eating habits. Dr. Lars Olov Bygren in Sweden research showed that in Overkalix, Sweden, boys who enjoyed those rare overabundant winters — kids who went from normal eating to gluttony in a single season — produced sons and grandsons who lived shorter lives.
Cancer researchers have reported the links between obesity and cancer. Women who are overweight have more chances of getting breast cancer and colon cancer.
Dealing with Stress: Do you eat when you are stressed? Most of us don’t even taste the food we eat. We inhale and gobble them up without realizing it. We sometimes refer to certain food as comfort food.
Stress and obesity are linked and stress unlocks fat cells which creates cortisol. Cortisol is produced by our adrenal gland and will actually make you feel hungrier and increases your appetite when there is stress.
Imagine if you could recognize your stress and take control of it and eat less?
In Brazil, copaiba oil is used on children and adults to reduce stress. Some children are given a teaspoon a day to cope with stress. Copaiba essential oil and Bergamot essential oil will help reduce stress. Inhale Stress Away a couple of minutes before meals.
Recognize Emotional Eating: Are you eating other than being hungry? Do you know when to stop eating? Are your emotions of being happy, sad, bored or excited satisfied by food? Recognize your eating habits… the difference between emotional and hunger eating. Some people need professional help to help recognize their emotions and food.
Breaking Old Habits: To lose weight long term you need to break old habits. Say goodbye to your old habits. Do you reward your child with food? Do we bring our children to a fast food place because they behave or did well in school? When they grow up they have the habit of going for fast food. Studies show that patients with a heart attack will go back to eating fast food after six months. Is that an addiction? Is the old habit of eating fast food difficult to break?
As more and more of us are getting more overweight, more and more fast foods are consumed each day. The price of food has gone up but fast food has not climbed as significantly as raw food.
We, as a society need to unlearn our behavior, reprogram our brain to eat healthier food. Recognize there are pleasure traps everywhere. Pleasure traps are at the check out counter in your local supermarket…convenient and pleasurable candies.
Fasting may be a way to break old habits. It helps us learn to exchange pleasure with happiness. Pleasure is a response to stimulus while happiness is ongoing and goal oriented. Do you know the difference? Fasting may reset our taste buds.
Read Labels: Learn to read labels and the right type of food for you and your family. Low fat foods are sold by the billions each year since 1993. It was $18 billion in 1993 and in 2009, reached $50 billion. However, we are still getting fatter. We, as a society, are trying hard and buying low fat food but is that our answer?
Low fat food is high in carbohydrate. The right type of fat may be good for you because the lack of fat is now replaced by carbohydrates and sugary foods. The good fats are coconut oil, walnut oil, flax seed oil, olive oil, cocoa butter oil and Omega 3 oil.
Eliminate Sugar: Most of our sugar intake is now in liquid form. The teas, sodas and the energy drink. The white bread and whole wheat bread we consume everyday will be converted into sugar in our blood streams.
The glycemic index of whole wheat bread is 71 while cane sugar is 59. The food you eat will affect your blood sugar. Cancer cells like sugar and they feed on sugar.
Recognize the Pitfalls of Sugar Substitutes: The pink, yellow and blue sugar substitutes that are readily available. One of them can kill ants! Research shows women’s kidney damage is on the rise because of sweeteners.
It also shows that sugar substitutes will make you hungrier. They do the opposite and increase your desire to eat.
Low Glycemic Food: Eat minimally cooked food or raw food. Suggested foods are high fiber foods, beans and lentils.
Blocking Inflammation: Medical research shows, obesity and inflammation are linked together. Oils that are high in carvacrol like Oregano, Ocotea essential oil; Roman Chamomile and German Chamomile are recommended.
Achieve Physical Satiety: You can achieve physical satiety by eating an apple before a meal, suck on a piece of dark chocolate or sip hot Slique Tea.
Yes, Slique Tea is a slimming Spice Tea with Ocotea, Oolong and Cacao. We will be unveiling this in a few weeks.
Use Aroma for Satiety: Aromatherapy can help manage psychological satiety. Slique Tea is formulated to include frankincense and vanilla essential oils. Sipping it 10 minutes before meals will help to reduce food cravings.
Finally, eat your meal slowly, take every bite and honor your food as your daily gift. Savor, smell, cherish and enjoy every bite…honor your good and don’t take advantage of what we have.
Let’s do it together.
Please share your comments below. Your comments help us serve you better.
Dr. Mary Starr Carter is known as the Total Wellness Doc. She has been training individuals about Natural Health Solutions for over 13 years. She is trained as a Chiropractor and has studied under the world’s foremost leaders in natural medicine. She is a mother and a wife and has created a balanced and total wellness life for herself and thousands of her clients using her simple wholistic approach to health and wellness. Her coaching, classes and ebooks help clients with Fibromyalgia, Hormone and Adrenal issues, Asthma, Diabetes, Weight problems, Thyroid and Chronic pain find resources and solutions to better health.
We publish newsletters and blogposts twice a week for our readers for general education purposes only. We cover topics that are related to achieving and maintaining total wellness which includes our emotional, physical, spiritual and financial health.
As a Chiropractor who sees a lot of backs we have had several cases of individuals who have had the signs of skin cancer on their back but did not know it. Because some individuals live alone and do not get regular dermatological check ups we may be there only set of eyes. We encourage everyone to get or do a thorough examination for skin cancers twice a year. If you have the risk factors for skin cancer or have had cancers in the past please seek proper dermatological attention. The following information is not meant to diagnose or prescribe but rather for education purposes only.
Enjoy the short video and scroll down to learn more about skin cancer.
I encourage everyone to do a google search a look up the images of what Melanoma and other skin cancers look like. Keep these in a folder on your computer or print them out so you can stay aware and use these photos to do your own periodic body observations.
The following is from the American Cancer Society http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/CancerCauses/SunandUVExposure/skin-cancer-facts
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers. It accounts for nearly half of all cancers in the United States. More than 2 million cases of non-melanoma skin cancer are found in this country each year. Melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, will account for about 68,130 cases of skin cancer in 2010.
Most non-melanoma skin cancers develop on sun-exposed areas of the body, like the face, ear, neck, lips, and the backs of the hands. Depending on the type, they can be fast or slow growing, but they rarely spread to other parts of the body.
Basal cell or squamous cell cancers are highly likely to be cured if detected and treated early.
Melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, will account for about 68,130 cases of skin cancer in 2010 and most (about 8,700) of the 11,790 deaths due to skin cancer each year.
The overall 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 91%. For localized melanoma, the 5-year survival rate is 98%; survival rates for regional and distant stage diseases are 62% and 15%, respectively. About 84% of melanomas are diagnosed at a localized stage.
What are the signs and symptoms of skin cancer?
Skin cancer can be found early, and both doctors and patients play important roles in finding skin cancer. If you have any of the following symptoms, tell your doctor.
• Any change on the skin, especially in the size or color of a mole or other darkly pigmented growth or spot, or a new growth
• Scaliness, oozing, bleeding, or change in the appearance of a bump or nodule
• The spread of pigmentation beyond its border such as dark coloring that spreads past the edge of a mole or mark
• A change in sensation, itchiness, tenderness, or pain
What are the risk factors for skin cancer?
Risk factors for non-melanoma and melanoma skin cancers include:
• Unprotected and/or excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation
• Fair complexion
• Occupational exposures to coal tar, pitch, creosote, arsenic compounds, or radium
• Family history
• Multiple or atypical moles
• Severe sunburns as a child
Skin Cancer is scary but the rate of survival if detected early is more than 90%. Stay diligent and use Young Living Essential Oils of Frankincense and Grapefruit for further protection.
We value your comments. Please comment below.
Dr. Mary Starr Carter is known as the Total Wellness Doc. She has been training individuals about Natural Health Solutions for over 13 years. She is trained as a Chiropractor and has studied under the world’s foremost leaders in natural medicine. She is a mother and a wife and has created a balanced and total wellness life for herself and thousands of her clients using her simple wholistic approach to health and wellness. Her coaching, classes and ebooks help clients with Fibromyalgia, Hormone and Adrenal issues, Asthma, Diabetes, Weight problems, Thyroid and Chronic pain find resources and solutions to better health.
We publish newsletters and blogposts twice a week for our readers for general education purposes only. We cover topics that are related to achieving and maintaining total wellness which includes our emotional, physical, spiritual and financial health.
Your Health and Your Sex Life
By Dr. Mary Starr Carter
Sex within a healthy marriage is awesome and if you have a healthy marriage I don’t have to answer why…..
But the quality of your Sex Life can be a reflection of one or both spouse’s health. Here are some common myths when it comes to sex.
Myth: It is natural as we age for our libido to decrease
Actually this is not correct. If you examine some of the longest living cultures alive today they not only are enjoying sex in their later years but actually conceiving at 50 and 60 without any medical help.
A healthy male will have virility to his late years. And woman way past her sixties in many of these cultures.
What do these cultures have that we don’t in most modernized countries?
Clean Foods no processed foods or sugar.
Daily physical exercise from labor.
Cleansing or Fasting 30-100 days a year.
Nature’s unadulterated medicine.
A lot less Cortisol (stress hormone) raising Stress
In these cultures there are no cases of Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, or Digestive Diseases like Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s.
Myth: It is normal for an older male not be able to have an erection or ejaculation
This is incorrect. Certain diseases like Diabetes, Stenosis of the spinal cord (arthritis pushing on the spinal cord), Bulging discs on the spinal cord, and many medications can all cause issues with sexual performance.
As a Chiropractor I have to say that blockages in your nervous system the body’s Master System may be causing symptoms. Some older men have found regular Chiropractic adjustments very beneficial to their overall health.
Myth: Drugs can fix my “sex problems”
In the past two decades they have found many harmful and even fatal side effects of some common erectile dysfunction drugs.
Ironically the same drugs that are suppose to make us happy (Anti-depressants) have a common side effect of decreased libido. And don’t forget that alcohol and recreational drugs also will affect your sexual performance.
Even something as simple as a cholesterol medication can decrease the cholesterol needed to produce hormones that give us our sex drive.
So if you are having trouble investigate these things first before turning to medications.
Myth: What I eat has no effect on my sexual performance?
This is incorrect, especially if you are trying to have a baby. Men who eat a junk food diet filled with high saturated fats, sugar, and sodas like Mountain DoDo have been found to have a lower motility and sperm count. Over time these things lead to stressed out organs, nervous system, and hormonal system resulting in dis-ease like Diabetes.
NingXia Red is just a highly concentrated fruit drink that is extremely safe for all ages and health conditions. There is no caffeine or herbs in it just nature’s medicine fruits that help to re-build the body. After 6 weeks of 6 oz a day most every person I talk to comments how ALIVE they feel & how much VITALITY they feel. If you would like to know more about NingXia Red go to http://www.starrhealth.myningxia.com/
Myth: Exercise will reduce my Sex Drive
Exercise is an important part of your health and can increase your libido by increasing the Happy Hormones in your body as well as specific hormones that help keep you young.
If you overtrain you can decrease your oomph by stressing the adrenal glands which are an important part of your endocrine hormone system. One great tip for Exercisers is to drink an ounce of NingXia Red in 8 oz of water while you exercise and make sure your body is getting enough minerals, B vitamins, and Fish oils.
This is just a glimpse at what Nutrition and Exercise can do your Sex Life. But here is my Bonus and Advice for those who want it don’t feel you have to take it.
As a spouse who has been through marriage training and individual counseling I would have to say the most effective training we had as a couple was www.firststepstosuccess.com
It may seem weird that we went to a business training to get
our marriage straight but it ended up like that. I tell every person I know that this is where I learned to be a good listener and wife. To honor my husband and build a foundation of success. I won’t comment on my sex life in honor of my husband, but I will end by saying some of the best things you can do for your marriage and sex life happen outside the bedroom.
Let us know what you think. Please comment below. Be tasteful and respectful.
Dr. Mary Starr Carter has worked with thousands of clients from terminally ill and chronic diseases to those who are healthy and want vibrant health. She has counseled hundreds of families who had given up hope find simple safe solutions. Known as the Total Wellness Doc she looks at all aspects of health to help someone overcome disease. She specializes in difficult cases like Fibromyalgia, Hormone and Adrenal issues, Asthma, Diabetes and Chronic pain.
We publish newsletters and blogposts twice a week for our readers for general education purposes only. We cover topics that are related to achieving and maintaining total wellness which includes our emotional, physical, spiritual and financial health.
The Care and Feeding of Your Children: HYDRATION
By Dr. Mary Starr Carter
Acne, Headaches, Bad Breath, Constipation, Cramping, Poor Concentration, Depression, Anxiety, Moodiness, Mental Fogginess
These symptoms might be what your teenager struggles with or even yourself. What you drink could contribute to all these things. Here are some simple suggestions that can help reduce some of these symptoms.
Make sure your children have proper hydration. WATER
FLAVORED WATERS
Flavored waters are expensive and not as healthy as you may think. Did you know that one bottle of Vitamin Water packs in 125 calories and 32.5g of sugar?
Ideally the best drink for your family is pure water. No chlorine, no fluoride just plain good most likely filtered water. (There are a variety of different water filtration and alkalizing machines and I will discuss that in another blog in the coming months.)
A HEALTHY ALTERNATIVE TO FLAVORED WATERS
Start your kids young liking pure water. If someone in your family doesn't like the taste of water try some of Young Living Essential oils in your water. I get a big glass (must be glass) bottle and put my pure water and choose from Orange, Tangerine, Citrus Fresh, Grapefruit, Peppermint, Spearmint and even Cinnamon oil. Pick an oil put 1 drop in the water and it is like a whole new drink plus you are getting all the added benefits of the Young Living Essential oils. Pick something and try it yourself first before giving it to the family.
HOW MUCH WATER?
The amount of fluids we need everyday from our drink and food should equal half our body weight in oz per day. If your an athlete be sure to stay hydrated before, during and after your events. If you are going to still drink Soda, Coffee or Caffeinated drinks then you must drink double that amount in water to make up for it.
HOW HYDRATED ARE YOU?
If you want to see how hydrated you or your children are you can purchase a scale that measures weight and water hydration. This can give you an estimate of if you or
SODA POP
Hopefully I don't have to tell you how bad sodas are for the body especially growing bodies. They are particularly harmful because Soda leaches calcium from our bones, wears the enamel off of our teeth, increases our chance of obesity, spikes blood sugar levels, and children who drink soda are 4 times as likely to have a broken bone.
A HEALTHY ALTERNATIVE TO SODA POP
Adults use soda to help pep them up or because they just like it. Children can easily get addicted to the sugar in soda. NingXia Red is a juice with 50% wolfberry which has essential amino-acids, vitamins and minerals the body needs. 1 ounce of NingXia Red has more antioxidants than eating 8 oranges, 4 lbs of carrots, 2 cups of blueberries, 2 cups of raspberry and you get the picture. ITS GOOD STUFF. And taste good.
So make your own soda with NingXia Red. Not everyday but occasionally treat your kids to a healthy soda with seltzer water an ounce of NingXia Red juice. This is our family's favorite because it tastes like a fruit soda but we are getting all the benefits of NingXia Red. NingXia Red is far superior to many Energy Drinks like Red Bull and Monster because they give sustainable energy to the body. If your child struggles with fatigue increase their Ningxia Red consumption to 2 oz twice a day and see how they do.
"Even though my 23 year old son doesn't eat the best but I know he is getting good nutrition because he has his NingXia Red everyday. I know I can trust NingXia Red." Kathryn Faso
“My daughter is a High School athlete who used to be sick all the time. Now I give her NingXia Red everyday 1 oz and 2 oz if she has practice or a big game. Her coaches notice a difference and she has rarely been sick this year." Hannibal NY
"My child was 2 years old and non-verbal and still not walking. We were very concerned. After just 6 weeks of giving her 2 ounces a day she started saying words and walking. I know it the nutrition in NingXia Red changed her." Mesa Arizona
You can also do seltzer water with Lemon, Citrus Fresh or Grapefruit essential oil and a little Stevia to sweeten it. Some grocery stores carry Zevia a delicious healthy soda. Again though make these a treat and not an everyday occurrence. Your wallet will thank you.
Stop Buying Juices
I know this may come as a shock to you but Juices can be harmful to your children's health. One glass of Orange Juice has 18 grams of sugar. Even if your sugar is natural from a fruit 18 grams of sugar will spike your teenager’s blood sugar and could result in low energy and moodiness. If you have to have juices dilute them with water 50/50.
"I was pregnant and developed Gestational Diabetes. My doctor said it was because of all the Orange Juice and juices I was drinking."
A HEALTHY ALTERNATIVE
We have already discussed NingXia Red which 1 oz can be diluted in 8-12 oz of water. But if you like juices think about squeezing or juicing your own. You will get 50% more nutrition and enzymes because FRESH IS BEST. The Champion Juicer is my favorite but the Jack Lalane Juicer is a close second. It can be fun as you can have your kids choose the fruit and veggies they want in their drink. There are lots more nutrients and enzymes you don't get with other store bought juices. My favorite Lemonade is 4 organic apples with 1 lemon after it's juiced I add water and ice and it is fabulous! The whole family will love it!
Whether you family member is 2 or 90 years old they can benefit from changes we suggest in this article. Now pick one thing you can do today to start Caring and Feeding your family for Total Wellness.
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Let Us Know Your Thoughts
Post Your Comments Below
Dr. Mary Starr Carter has worked with thousands of clients from terminally ill and chronic diseases to those who are healthy and want vibrant health. She has counseled hundreds of families who had given up hope find simple safe solutions. Known as the Total Wellness Doc she looks at all aspects of health to help someone overcome disease. She specializes in difficult cases like Fibromyalgia, Hormone and Adrenal issues, Asthma, Diabetes and Chronic pain.
We publish newsletters and blogposts twice a week for our readers for general education purposes only. We cover topics that are related to achieving and maintaining total wellness which includes our emotional, physical, spiritual and financial health.
You are weaker than you think you are and stronger than you think you are?
By Dr. Mary Starr Carter
Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia sufferers can spend a lot of time in bed resting. Some may even spend 16-20 hrs a day resting. The pain and fatigue can be unbearable to even get out of bed. After just 4 hours of bed rest the body begins to decrease its muscle mass and fibers. Bed Rest can contribute to the pain because lymph and toxins become stuck in the body and inflammation can increase. Bed rest for weeks at a time can contribute to muscle atrophy and weakness of the stabilizing core muscles which could lead to neck and back problems.
Obese individuals can have a condition of muscle build up, tightness and weakness where certain muscles grow strong and big from the extra weight they carry and other muscles become weak. They can end up with the same inflammatory pain conditions as a Fibromyalgia client.
What about those who sit all day long? They also can end up with a tight muscle weak muscle condition which can cause pain and problems.
First why Exercise? Well we addressed that in our Benefits of Exercise article. Here are a few more reasons from Dr. Murphree's Health Matters Newsletter
Exercise is a wonderful stress reducer and mood elevator. It helps relieve mild depression by generating endorphins, the body's natural pain killers that are associated with the "runner's high." Some researchers have said that exercise can raise levels of norepinephrine — a neurotransmitter associated with drive, ambition, energy, and happiness — by 200 percent.
Exercise also stimulates important neurotransmitters that help us combat insomnia, irritability, and fatigue, as well as food, alcohol, and tobacco cravings. Blood glucose and insulin levels are decreased, which is extremely beneficial for carbohydrate-intolerant individuals and type-2 diabetics. (Type-1 diabetics will need to adjust their insulin regimen to account for increased exercise.)
Exercise also decreases triglycerides (fats) in your blood and LDL – the bad form of cholesterol, while increasing HDL – the good form. High blood pressure is lowered, and the heart becomes stronger and more efficient, pumping more blood per beat. Exercise increases the diameter of coronary arteries, greatly reducing the risk of heart attack. Exercise can even reduce the risk of a second heart attack. Among heart attack survivors, those who choose not to exercise are over 20 times more likely to have another heart attack than those who exercise.
BUT EXERCISE ALONE IS NOT ENOUGH
YOU MUST STRENGTHEN ALL YOUR MUSCLES
Myself and many of my clients walk daily, ride a bike, even have strenuous jobs with physical labor, but to properly strengthen the body we must include Strength Training into our Recovery and Fitness Plan.
The number #1 reason for Strength Training Exercise is to protect your bones and muscles. But there are plenty more reasons like increasing your immune system, decreasing your risk of injury, eliminating Type II diabetes, burning more calories, and Strength Training is even found more effective than drugs in fighting arthritis pain.
Where to Begin?
If you have any illness be sure to consult with your health care practitioner. But if you have Chronic Fatigue or Fibromyalgia you may also need to work in stages.
Recovery Stage
If you have a debilitating disabling condition I recommend the Chi Machine or a Vibrating machine for beginners. These machines help do the work for you as you lay, sit or stand on them. They burn calories, and increase the lymphatic motion which can decrease pain.
Beginner and Beyond Stage
The next level would include an exercise program developed for Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, Obese, Arthritis and Pain clients called T-TAP exercise. This is an excellent short (some are 15 minutes) simple exercise program that you can do in the comfort of your home.
T-TAP exercise helped me to regain my health and strength. It got me strong enough to start to lift weights. Many individuals have regained their health with this system alone. Charlotte Siems released over 100 lbs and has kept it off for years.
You may only be able to do part or some of the exercises at first but stick with it you will get stronger. You can use a variety of T-TAP trainings for a Total Body strength and toning workout for your entire life. But some of you will need more so when you are ready move on to the next stage.
Strength Training Stage
Strength Training can be accomplished in the gym or at home.
Many gyms are equipped with good Nautilus, Cybex and Free weight type of equipment that helps you develop your strength and muscle. My personal opinion after working out at dozens of gyms is that one size fits all machines are not as effective as a program specifically tailored for you. I recommend investing in a Personal Trainer for several sessions until you understand and can do a specific routine. You may want to work with a Personal Trainer periodically throughout the year to help challenge you and get the quickest results.
MY FAVORITE
Chalene Extreme by Beach Body
Wow am I impressed with this Program. She is an excellent trainer who has very carefully paid attention to all the little details a personal trainer would. But the best part is that the cost is less than 2 sessions with a personal trainer and you can do it in the convenience of your home. You will feel the results in a week, and see the results in less than 3 weeks.
DON'T FORGET THE NUTRITION
To get strong again your body is going to need some specific carbohydrates and proteins. NingXia Red is an excellent way to fuel your body during a strength training workout followed by Powermeal a meal replacement shake. I recommend getting a liter of water with 2 oz of NingXia Red in it and drink this during your work out and finish it within 3 hours of your work out. Also make sure you have had your Protein Shake within 20-30 minutes of finishing your workout. Some people even enjoy a shake 30 minutes before and then again afterwards. Listen to your body and give it what it needs.
After a decade of only doing aerobic exercises and then living 2 months in bed and on the couch I became extremely weak, fatigued, and hurting. I did not have a foundation of strong muscle that would sustain me through that period of little movement. But THANK YOU GOD…. for that awful experience because had I not gone through that I would have never known how WEAK I REALLY WAS. Now just 3 weeks into it. I feel Stronger than EVER !
Remember if you sit most of your day you are probably weaker than you think you are. But give yourself just a few weeks of beginning Strength training and you will soon realize you are stronger than you thought you were too!
What Did You Think?
Let Us Know Your Thoughts
Post Your Comments Below
Dr. Mary Starr Carter has worked with thousands of clients from terminally ill and chronic diseases to those who are healthy and want vibrant health. She has counseled hundreds of families who had given up hope find simple safe solutions. Known as the Total Wellness Doc she looks at all aspects of health to help someone overcome disease. She specializes in difficult cases like Fibromyalgia, Hormone and Adrenal issues, Asthma, Diabetes and Chronic pain.
We publish newsletters and blogposts twice a week for our readers for general education purposes only. We cover topics that are related to achieving and maintaining total wellness which includes our emotional, physical, spiritual and financial health.
Benefits of Exercise
By Dr. Peggy Malone
Moving your body regularly is one of the best things that you can do for your health. In previous posts, I have emphasized that the human body is a perfect motion machine. It is designed to move; to run and jump and hunt and gather. Our current modern day world has taken many of us away from the motion that our body needs.
Getting your body moving through a regular exercise program has more benefits than you think.
Here are 43 of the advantages that a regular exercise program can bring to your health and wellness…
1) Reduced stress and tension
2) Increased energy to manage your day to day routine
3) Pain relief
4) A stronger immune system: Exercise is a natural defence against colds and flu viruses.
5) Increased good cholesterol (HDL-High Density Lipoprotein)
6) Reduced depression
7) Prevention of and reduced incidence of Low Back Pain
8 ) Blood Pressure levels that are improved and regulated
9) Improved co-ordination and balance
10) Decreased risk of stroke and heart disease
11) Decreased risk of Type II Diabetes and more controlled blood sugar levels.
12) Increase bone density and decreased risk of Osteoporosis
13) Decreased risk of breast and colon cancers
14) Improved respiratory function
15) Increase mental alertness and focus
16) Enhanced ability to relax and sleep
17) Reduced triglyceride levels and gives the body the ability to more effectively burn fat
18) Aid in alleviating varicose veins
19) Decreased menstrual cramps
20) Improvement in skin tone
21) Enhanced sex life
22) Increase in flexibility
23) Improved joint health including increased range of motion
24) Toned and firm muscles with more definition
25) Increased strength and endurance
26) Increased lean muscle mass (which begins to decline at an alarming rate of up to 2% a year after age 35)
27) Increased athletic performance
28) Decreased resting heart rate
29) Enhanced heart function including higher cardiac output
30) Increased speed of muscle contraction and reaction time
31) Improved posture
32) Weight loss, decrease in obesity
33) Improved chances of keeping the weight off after you lose it
34) Increased cravings for healthier foods
35) Improved digestion
36) Improved social interaction with exercise group
37) The challenge and achievement of a goal
38) Heightened self esteem and self image
39) Reduced number of ‘sick’ days
40) Reduced chance of a fatal heart attack
41) Reduced risk of premature death
42) Increased length of life
43) Overall improvement of quality of life
It is never to late to experience the benefits of regular exercise. Even if you are 85 or even 95, if you start a regular exercise program (under the guidance of a health care professional please) you can see massive benefits in many areas of your health and wellness and most importantly in your overall quality of life.
I’ve written in previous posts about the benefits of moving your body every day. If you need another reminder as to why you should be exercising, I have just given you 43. If you can add to the list, I would love it if you would comment below and give me your exercise benefit!
Get moving…..
Your body will thank you and your overall well-being will be improved as a result.
About the Writer:
Dr. Peggy Malone is a Chiropractor and an Athlete who helps other athletes to overcome injury and get back to their sport. She also inspires patients from all walks of life to take control of their health to be as happy and as healthy as they can be. It's simpler than you think to take control of your health. My gift to you today is my free report: Top Ten Steps That Make a Difference
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We publish newsletters and blogposts twice a week for our readers for general education purposes only. We cover topics that are related to achieving and maintaining total wellness which includes our emotional, physical, spiritual and financial health.
Do you remember Cod Liver oil? The awful tasting stuff your mother or grandmother would make you take when you were sick or if you were lucky every day. Well you might not think so then but today science has proven it was and is REALLY GOOD STUFF. One of the reasons is the high amount of Vitamin D in it.
What is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin found in very few foods with cod liver oil having the highest quantities. It also can naturally be made by our bodies when the ultraviolet rays of the sun hit our skin.
Why is it Important?
Not only is it important for the strength of our bones and calcium absorption but research is finding that Vitamin D deficiency may be linked to certain autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, dementia and certain cancers. WOW right.
Who is lacking Vitamin D ?
Although research varies it is estimated that more than 90 % of Americans have low levels of Vitamin D and children are becoming more and defieincent. But here is a list of groups who are most at risk:
Breast Fed Infants,
Older Adults
People with limited sun exposure
People with dark skin
People with problems digesting fat
Obese people
And those who have had Gastric Bypass
Some Drugs prevent Vitamin D absorption
Certain Steroids like Prednisone
Both the weight-loss drug Xenical and Alli and the cholesterol-lowering drugs Questran, LoCholest, and Prevalite can reduce the absorption of vitamin D and other fat-soluble vitamins And the anti-seizure medicine Dilantin.
How do I know my Vitamin D levels?
Many doctors are prescribing Vitamin D testing for patients, but you can also request it. There are take home Vitamin D Deficiency test that will cost you about $65. If you are into saving money you might want to consider just taking Vitamin D.
.
How do I get enough Vitamin D?
Northerners don't expect the sun to the do the job from October to April. The UV rays we need are not strong enough so here are some of my recommendations. Get tested so you have a base line to go from and then supplement with the following. With low levels take 4000IUs of Liquid Vitamin D3 (I believe liquid is more absorbable) or a great source of Cod liver oil. My recommendation for D3 is Carlson Labs liquid D3 drops 2000IUs. Also if you struggle with Seasonal Affect Disorder also known as the winter blues I recommend getting in the tanning bed for 5-30 minutes two times a week. Be sure to check the facilitiy that the beds emitt UVB rays and follow their tanning guidelines.
My findings
In my practice several of my fibromyalgia clients had been prescribed Vitamin D by their primary MDs. The clients saw improvements in their energy levels and pain after just a month of supplementing.
The other thing I find so interesting is that there are no Multiple Sclerosis cases near the equator and I bet a lot less cases of Rhematoid, Lupus, Fibromyalgia etc…. in my Central NY town half of the over 60 year olds go to Florida for the winter. Most of them say they feel so much better with less pain and more energy. Could there be a link between Vitamin D and sunlight?
The Total Wellness doctor thinks so!
Conclusion
Research shows vitamin D gives you a much a better chance of preventing illnesses such as: Heart Disease, Hypertension, Arthritis, Chronic Pain, Depression, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Obesity, Premenstrual Syndrome, Muscular Weakness, Fibromyalgia, Crohns Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Autoimmune Illness, and Cancer. so,…..
Get your baseline Vitamin D tested start supplementing your diet or get some artificial sun or real sun depending where you live and what time of the year.
For more information order the book
The Vitamin D cure by James e Dowd gives a simple 5 step plan to using Vitamin D, some simple exercise and diet changes to increase your energy, improve your mood, decrease pain and even lose weight.
We publish newsletters and blogposts twice a week for our readers for general education purposes only. We cover topics that are related to achieving and maintaining total wellness which includes our emotional, physical, spiritual and financial health.
