Eye Health – Michelle Berry

Plant Protein

The protein myth is real. Growing up I thought that eating animals was how to get enough protein in my diet for optimum health. There are now thousands of scientific studies and doctors that dispel they myth and confirm that plant based protein is abundant, powerful and nourishing.

“If you eat a variety of whole foods of plant origin (vegetables, legumes, 100 percent whole grains and fruits) and not refined food-like products, it is very unlikely that you could be deficient in protein intake, even if your needs are higher (after major surgery, for example). In other words, if you get enough whole plant foods everyday, you get enough protein. The more protein—especially animal protein—one eats, the higher the risk of different chronic diseases. For example, in a recent study of more than 6,000 people in the best nationally representative dietary survey in the United States, those between 50 and 65 years old who reported high protein intake had a 75 percent increase in dying from any cause, a four-fold increase in cancer death risk during the following 18 years, and a five-fold increase in death from diabetes. Those with moderate intake had increased cancer death risk three-fold when compared with the low protein intake group! It is important to note that these associations were either abolished or attenuated if the proteins were plant derived. The composition of amino acids, building blocks of protein, derived from animals is different than from plant proteins. What we need are amino acids, not the proteins themselves. As for the amount of protein we eat, it is not practical or very accurate to measure that on a daily basis. 0.8 g/kg is generous. According to the World Health Organization, 0.5 g/kg is adequate for good health. Make sure you get enough calories from unprocessed whole foods of plant origin and you will get more than enough protein.” ~ Dr Mladen Golubic, MD, PhD, Cleveland Clinic

That is a powerful statement! There are so many amazing benefits that come with eating plants, like lots of important fiber (97% of people are deficient in this key nutrient!), phytonutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and water. In fact, 97% of American get more than enough protein every single day, so why is everyone so obsessed? Well, protein does play a vital role in thousands of biological processes like giving cell walls their structure, transporting and storing key nutrients, repair tissues (such as bones, skin, hair and muscles) as well as helping the body rid itself of toxins and waste.

Here is a link to a video that contains information from NutritionFacts.org

Where do you get your protein?

Here is a list I made up years ago for my clients:

Many of these foods you’re probably already familiar with, and the great news is, these foods are so much better for your body than animal sources. Plant-based sources of protein are abundant in whole foods. These foods contain incredible amounts of nutrient-dense properties that your body and brain can use to help you feel your best. They also don’t lead to inflammation like animal sources and they’re much better for the entire planet.

The beauty of food as medicine is that it can start as soon as your next meal!

Many Blessings,

Michelle

10 Health Commandments by Paul and Patricia Bragg

Though shall respect and protect thy body as the highest manifestation of thy life.

Thou shall abstain from all unnatural, devitalized foods and stimulating beverages.

Thou shall nourish thy body with only natural live foods, fruits, vegetables and whole grains that . . .

Thou shall extend thy years in health for loving, charitable service and sharing with others.

Though shall regenerate thy body by the right balance of activity, exercise and rest.

Though shall purify they cells, tissue and blood with healthy foods, pure water, clean air and sunshine.

Though shall abstain from all food when out of sorts in the mind or body.

Thou shall keep all thoughts, words and emotions pure, calm, good, loving and uplifting.

Thou shall increase thy knowledge of Nature’s Laws, follow them, and enjoy the fruits of thy life’s labor.

Thou shall lift up thyself, friends and family by obedience to Mother Nature’s and God’s Healthy, Natural Laws of Living.

~The Miracle Of Fasting by Paul and Patricia Bragg~

Simple Sweet Smoothie

Spring is just around the corner (I think – its still snowing here in Montana).

This is a great time of year to cleanse your liver. A congested liver can affect hormone production and create imbalances in the body including unwanted weight gain. If you are not feeling well, have allergies, fatigue, anxiety, depression, menstrual irregularities, joint pain, rashes/acne, constipation, irregular bowels, frequent colds, palpitations or insomnia, cleansing your liver may be the ticket towards better health.

A great way to cleanse your liver is to participate in a juice cleanse. Or you can do a three day raw food cleanse.

Here is a great energy boosting smoothie for a great way to start your liver cleanse as well as a great smoothie for pre-work out nourishment.

Simply Sweet Smoothie

2 bananas
1 cup strawberries
1 thai coconut
1 cup beet juice or (1/2 beet blended)
2 Tablespoons Pure Synergy or Vitamineral Green
1 teaspoon bee pollen

Put all ingredients in a blender and voila! Superb!

Beets are a blood tonic and are good for anemia, the heart and circulation. They purify the blood, alleviate constipation, aid the liver, and promote menstruation. Beets reduce vata and kapha.

A starchy vegetable, beet roots are high in natural sugar. The greens have notable amounts of calcium, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus; they also contain vitamins A, B-complex, and C.

Health Benefits of Beets:

Boosts Energy
Rich in nutrients
Blood purifier
Immune system booster
Anti-inflammatory
Stimulates liver function
Natural colon cleanser
Supports capillaries
Prevents macular degeneration
Prevents cataracts
Natures viagra
Creates a sense of well being
Used as a stomach acid tester
Contains pectin polysaccharides for digestive tract health
Lessens tumor cell growth & contains betacyanins which counteract cancer
Source of anthycyanins, carotenoids & lutein/zeazanthin which helps prevent or even cure macular degeneration and other eye related issues.
Reduces cholesterol & triglycerides

Beets are natures viagra? Seriously? Yes, seriously! Beets were used by both the ancient Greeks and Romans both medicinally as an aphrodisiac and as a culinary herb. Medicinally, beets contain high amounts of boron, which is directly related to the production of human sex hormones. In addition the natural nitrates that would improve overall performance.

Go ahead! Give this beet smoothie a try! For great info on energizing beet juice, click here!

Why is it that one day eating a beet turns your urine pink, whereas another day and another beet produce magenta stool? According to nutritionist Jeffrey Bland, PhD., pink urine may indicate an iron deficiency while magenta stool indicates adequate iron. What color is your poop?

Inspiration has unlimited power,

Michelle

The beet is the most intense of vegetables. The radish, admittedly, is more feverish, but the fire of the radish is a cold fire, the fire of discontent, not of passion. Tomatoes are lusty enough, yet there runs through tomatoes an undercurrent of frivolity. Beets are deadly serious.

~Tom Robbins, Jitterbug Perfume

7 Day Juice Cleanse

This is an extension of the 3-Day Juice Cleanse and the 5-Day Juice Cleanse that was posted earlier this month. Cleansing is a great way to kickstart your way to better health! Give your body a break from caffeine, sugar, wheat, dairy, and alcohol so that you may establish new, healthier habits, renew your energy and detox your body with this invigorating week long cleanse!

Make sure to use fresh organic ingredients for your juice, to ensure that your juices contain no synthetic ingredients. This supplies the body with a concentrated batch of natural vitamins and minerals in their natural form. With the extra nutrition, your body’s performance will improve and more energy will be available. With all of this extra energy many people report wanting to exercise, which leads to clearer thinking, healthier emotional states & weight control (you may even sleep better too). As dis-ease thrives in bodies which are filled with toxins, bacteria and carcinogens, most of which are found in un-healthy food. To prevent dis-ease and effectively defend itself, the body requires a wide assortment of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. When you feel healthy, its natural to get more out of life. That is why I created this simple 5 Day Cleanse to liven up your life!!!

Click here for symptoms of detoxification and what you can do about it.

To prepare your body for juice cleansing please check out my 3 Day Cleanse, its easy and it will really help prepare the body for a 7 day juice fast.

7 Day Juice Cleanse to Boost Your Metabolism!

Day 1

Drink 48 ounces of fresh juice throughout the day.
Drink water. Drink half your body weight in ounces of water. (150 pound person would drink 75 ounces of water).
Fiber. Drink apple juice and 1 teaspoon fiber cleansing formula mixed with either 8 ounce of water and/or apple juice. Drink this twice a day.
Green Drink. Mix 1 tablespoon of a green powder like Pure Synergy, Vitamineral Green or Premier Research Labs Greens Mix with 8 ounces of water or apple juice. Drink this twice a day.
Drink as much herbal tea as you want throughout the day. Ginger tea is amazing because it contains over 477 constituents, it inhibits inflammation, it’s helps fight tumor growth, and it stimulates HCL – Hydrochloric Acid that is used by the stomach to break down fiber and plant roughage. An ancient Indian Proverb once said, “Every good quality is contained in ginger.”
Drink lemon water. Although lemons are acidic, they have an alkalizing effect on the body because the contain alkalizing minerals. Lemons are a wonderful germicide and are used to reduce fevers. They are high in vitamin C, B1, and G, as well as potassium. Lemons are ideal for removing toxins from the body, especially the liver.
If you’re hungry, drink veggie broth. Broth actually helps improve enzyme and cellular metabolism and general cleansing and detoxification.
For some great green juice recipes click here. For some vibrant red and orange juice recipes click here.

Fresh juice and tea ideas for day 1:

Orange-Cherry-Ginger (16 ounces)
Celery-Pineapple-Kale-Swiss Chard-Ginger (32 ounces)
Ginger Tea

Day 2

Drink 48 ounces of fresh juice throughout the day.
Drink water. Drink half your body weight in ounces of water. (150 pound person would drink 75 ounces of water).
Fiber. Drink apple juice and one teaspoon fiber cleansing formula mixed with either 8 ounce of water and/or apple juice. Drink this twice a day.
Green Drink. Mix 1 tablespoon of a green powder like Pure Synergy, Vitamineral Green or Premier Research Labs Greens Mix with 8 ounces of water or apple juice. Drink this twice a day.
Drink as much herbal tea & lemon water as you want throughout the day.
If you’re hungry, drink veggie broth. Broth actually helps improve enzyme and cellular metabolism and general cleansing and detoxification.

Fresh juice and tea ideas for day 2:

Beet-Carrot-Cherry-Grapefruit-Ginger-Lime (16 ounces)
Celery-Kale-Apple-Cilantro-Lemon-Ginger (32 ounces)
Licorice Tea

Day 3

Drink 48 ounces of fresh juice throughout the day.
Drink water. Drink half your body weight in ounces of water. (150 pound person would drink 75 ounces of water).
Fiber. Drink apple juice and one teaspoon fiber cleansing formula mixed with either 8 ounce of water and/or apple juice. Drink this twice a day.
Green Drink. Mix 1 tablespoon of a green powder like Pure Synergy, Vitamineral Green or Premier Research Labs Greens Mix with 8 ounces of water or apple juice. Drink this twice a day.
Drink as much herbal tea or lemon water as you want throughout the day.
If you’re hungry, drink veggie broth. Broth actually helps improve enzyme and cellular metabolism and general cleansing and detoxification.

Fresh juice and tea ideas for day 3:

Beet-Grapefruit-Ginger (16 ounces)
Swiss Chard-Apple-Ginger (32 ounces)
Chamomile Tea

Day 4

Drink 48 ounces of fresh juice throughout the day.
Drink water. Drink half your body weight in ounces of water. (150 pound person would drink 75 ounces of water).
Fiber. Drink apple juice and one teaspoon fiber cleansing formula mixed with either 8 ounce of water and/or apple juice. Drink this twice a day.
Green Drink. Mix 1 tablespoon of a green powder like Pure Synergy, Vitamineral Green or Premier Research Labs Greens Mix with 8 ounces of water or apple juice. Drink this twice a day.
Drink as much herbal tea or lemon water as you want throughout the day.
If you’re hungry, drink veggie broth. Broth actually helps improve enzyme and cellular metabolism and general cleansing and detoxification.

Fresh juice and tea ideas for day 4:

Carrot-Apple-Ginger (16 ounces)
Celery-Swiss Chard-Dino Kale-Apple (32 ounces)
Soothing Licorice Mint Tea

Day 5

Drink 48 ounces of fresh juice throughout the day.
Drink water. Drink half your body weight in ounces of water. (150 pound person would drink 75 ounces of water).
Fiber. Drink apple juice and one teaspoon fiber cleansing formula mixed with either 8 ounce of water and/or apple juice. Drink this twice a day.
Green Drink. Mix 1 tablespoon of a green powder like Pure Synergy, Vitamineral Green or Premier Research Labs Greens Mix with 8 ounces of water or apple juice. Drink this twice a day.
Drink as much herbal tea or lemon water as you want throughout the day.
If you’re hungry, drink veggie broth. Broth actually helps improve enzyme and cellular metabolism and general cleansing and detoxification.

Fresh juice and tea ideas for day 5:

Beet-Grapefruit-Ginger (16 ounces)
Celery-Apple-Parsley-Cilantro-Ginger-Lemon (32 ounces)
Jasmine Tea

Day 6

Drink 48 ounces of fresh juice throughout the day.
Drink water. Drink half your body weight in ounces of water. (150 pound person would drink 75 ounces of water).
Fiber. Drink apple juice and one teaspoon fiber cleansing formula mixed with either 8 ounce of water and/or apple juice. Drink this twice a day.
Green Drink. Mix 1 tablespoon of a green powder like Pure Synergy, Vitamineral Green or Premier Research Labs Greens Mix with 8 ounces of water or apple juice. Drink this twice a day.
Drink as much herbal tea or lemon water as you want throughout the day.
If you’re hungry, drink veggie broth. Broth actually helps improve enzyme and cellular metabolism and general cleansing and detoxification.

Fresh juice and tea ideas for day 6:

Beet-Grapefruit-Carrot-Ginger (16 ounces)
Celery-Pineapple-Cilantro-Ginger-Lemon (32 ounces)
Dandelion Root Tea

Day 7

Drink 48 ounces of fresh juice throughout the day.
Drink water. Drink half your body weight in ounces of water. (150 pound person would drink 75 ounces of water).
Fiber. Drink apple juice and one teaspoon fiber cleansing formula mixed with either 8 ounce of water and/or apple juice. Drink this twice a day.
Green Drink. Mix 1 tablespoon of a green powder like Pure Synergy, Vitamineral Green or Premier Research Labs Greens Mix with 8 ounces of water or apple juice. Drink this twice a day.
Drink as much herbal tea or lemon water as you want throughout the day.
If you’re hungry, drink veggie broth. Broth actually helps improve enzyme and cellular metabolism and general cleansing and detoxification.

Fresh juice and tea ideas for day 7:

Beet-Apple-Carrot-Ginger (16 ounces)
Celery-Apple-Parsley-Cilantro-Ginger-Lemon (32 ounces)
Evening in Missoula Tea or Chamomile Tea

During your cleansing process:

Take time to go for a 20 minute walk everyday.
Stretch and practice yoga.
Meditate
Dry Skin Brush
Infrared Sauna
Enemas!!! 1 or 2 a day depending on your detox symptoms!
Take Detox Baths (I love bathing in Sole Water)
Get your Beauty Sleep
LOVE YOURSELF!!

Please note: During a juice cleanse I generally don’t use tomatoes. Tomatoes are a great detoxifier but they also upset calcium metabolism and should be avoided in cases of arthritis. Large amounts of tomatoes are weakening for everyone. So I like to enjoy them after a fast as they are easy to digest.

Another side note. I do not juice cucumbers in the winter. Remember that phrase, “As cool as a cucumber”? Well, a cucumber at any given time can be literally 20 degrees cooler than the temperature of the surrounding area. Since it is already cold here in Montana, we don’t need to tax our bodies with extra cold, so I leave cucumber juicing to the heat of the summer!

On this seven day journey, try to free yourself of the past hurts and worries that continue to live with you. Let them float away. Journal or write letters (you don’t have to send them) to give yourself a regular outlet for your emotions, regrets, and worries. Don’t push them aside, harness them and move on as a smarter and lighter person.

After the 7 Day Juice Cleanse

If you would like to continue cleansing, check out the post on a 3 Day Cleanse! You can make this journey a 13 day cleanse if you do the 3-Day Raw Food Cleanse before and after your 7-Day Juice Cleanse!

As you ease back into eating remember to take time, to be thankful for having food. Choose easily digestible foods like soups (my favorite is miso) and smoothies.

The best of all medicine is resting and fasting. ~Benjamin Franklin

Much love and juice,

Michelle