I just came down to earth after reading Gluten-Free Girl by Shauna James Ahern. Her conversational style made me feel that she is an old friend. Her passion, respect and joy of good food is simpatico as I have written two recipe books myself.
It was a privilege to read the measures she took to heal herself from many years of undiagnosed celiac disease and how she turned her condition around to an uplifting experience. She helped herself along with so many who need this information, which she infuses with her genuine enthusiasm for both healing and good food!
While I am unable to shop in small markets to purchase the highest quality of any given item, reading of her association with vendors and her sniff-and-taste experiences redirected me to the delight and romance of excellent food. I cannot utter enough complimentary adjectives to explain how her creative gift of expression absorbed and transported me to another delightful dimension.
Her enthusiasm is contagious. I will be preparing her well-written, inspiring recipes immediately. My first choice is Chilled Millet Salad with Jicama and Mango. Yum!
I plan to reread Gluten-Free Girl for food preparation as well as for pure pleasure. For me food is love, and I feel her love for the reader on every page!
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Dowsing
Some time ago, I was in an accident and required brain surgery. After going through such an experience, I depend on my pendulum and Pendulum Therapy to indicate when I should use gingko.
Pendulum Therapy is known as the "Art and Science of Dowsing." Dowsing is used to determine causes and solutions for a variety of problems. It is a system by which information and knowledge are gained in a most amazing way. The simple process involves tuning in to earth energies and using the resulting information for a higher purpose. Non-attachment is essential in obtaining an answer to a question. One must quiet the mind, focus on intention, and expect an accurate answer. I have been practicing dowsing for a long time to test what I should eat and if my supplements are appropriate on any given day. I find it most rewarding.
Photo by fotocitizen
For further information on Pendulum Therapy, visit The American Society of Dowsers online at www.dowsers.org.
Pendulum Therapy is known as the "Art and Science of Dowsing." Dowsing is used to determine causes and solutions for a variety of problems. It is a system by which information and knowledge are gained in a most amazing way. The simple process involves tuning in to earth energies and using the resulting information for a higher purpose. Non-attachment is essential in obtaining an answer to a question. One must quiet the mind, focus on intention, and expect an accurate answer. I have been practicing dowsing for a long time to test what I should eat and if my supplements are appropriate on any given day. I find it most rewarding.
Photo by fotocitizenFor further information on Pendulum Therapy, visit The American Society of Dowsers online at www.dowsers.org.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Bach Flower Remedies
The Bach Flower Remedies have played an essential role in my life. It has been a love affair for over 20 years. Just last week in the midst of an intricate, three-hour dental procedure, I used an application of Rescue Remedy a few times.
The Bach Flower Remedies book (copyrighted in 1931) should be on everyone’s bookshelf. The remedies are “dedicated to all who suffer or who are in distress.” Dr. Bach developed the remedies through his work in homeopathy. They are simply prepared with pure water, sunlight and fresh floral blossoms.
There are 38 Bach Flower Remedies for seven types of injurious emotions such as fear, loneliness, despondency, emotional imbalance and weakness. In my life I have had bouts with depression. I could have easily turned to medication. Instead I checked the Mood page of the Bach Flower Remedies, used the applicable remedy, and in a few hours hopeless feelings were converted to relief and even joy. I kid you not! To go one large step forward, when I had brain surgery after a car accident some years ago, I called on a Bach Flower specialist, Mary Ann Dittmeier, who prepared a formula that worked miraculously. I resumed my work schedule in a few days! Her expertise is invaluable. Even today I call her for more profound formulae. I invite you to read her more technical, perceptive and astute study on the subject of Bach Flower Remedies.
Bach Flowers ─ Natural Support
for All Creatures Great and Small
by Mary Ann Dittmeier
How often does one thoroughly enjoy her profession? Well, here’s one! It is such a joy to assist folks with the Bach Flowers and experience their life enhancing changes using this subtle healing method. I am proud to serve all of my clients – including spirited children, adults, animals and plants, too.
Bach® Flower Remedies are derived from plants grown on the English countryside. They were discovered by Dr. Edward Bach, a noted physician, researcher and naturalist. He knew that one’s attitude toward health and illness is key to personal fulfillment and an overall sense of wellbeing. Bach Flowers are still chosen from the areas Dr. Bach used in the 1920’s and are processed by hand at the peak of their bloom. Bach Flowers have been used for over 70 years to achieve balance in mind, body and spirit by healing professionals and lay people alike. The 38 liquid essences are completely safe and non-addictive. They are appropriate for all folks — pregnant and lactating mothers, infants, teens, adults and seniors. They are a harmless compliment to any other natural and medical healing modality with virtually no side effects.
Bach® Rescue Remedy is the most well known of all the essences. It offers five Bach Flowers in one formula. It is immediately effective in emergency situations and for everyday stress — taking exams, confrontations, living with teenagers, tight schedules, traffic, dealing with challenging people, receiving bad news, etc. It is available in several forms: 10 or 20 ml liquid and the popular, convenient Rescue Remedy Spray. Rescue Sleep includes six essences to calm the mind, making sleep more possible. Rescue Remedy Cream is an easily absorbed cream excellent for soothing irritated skin, minor cuts, bruises, bug bites, muscle massage, chapped lips, sunburn, diaper rash and more!
The Bach Flowers help parents and infants through the birthing process, sleeping patterns, crying, neediness, teething, etc. They can guide children through the formative years, managing body changes, self-esteem, peer pressure, the demands of in-school and after-school responsibilities, and even dealing with the pressures of making mature choices approaching adulthood.
The Bach Flowers can lessen fatigue, anxiety, fear, worry, indecisiveness, sleeplessness, procrastination, anger, resentment, past trauma, overwhelming feelings, detoxifying from illness, negative emotions and more. The Bach Flowers have four essences which deal with depression naturally. It is a pleasure to guide my clients in this simple healing system.
Mary Ann Dittmeier, BFRP is a Bach Foundation Registered Practitioner and President of FIND YOUR BALANCE, INC. For information, supplies, literature or to schedule an appointment, call Mary Ann at 631-475-8308.
The Bach Flower Remedies book (copyrighted in 1931) should be on everyone’s bookshelf. The remedies are “dedicated to all who suffer or who are in distress.” Dr. Bach developed the remedies through his work in homeopathy. They are simply prepared with pure water, sunlight and fresh floral blossoms.
There are 38 Bach Flower Remedies for seven types of injurious emotions such as fear, loneliness, despondency, emotional imbalance and weakness. In my life I have had bouts with depression. I could have easily turned to medication. Instead I checked the Mood page of the Bach Flower Remedies, used the applicable remedy, and in a few hours hopeless feelings were converted to relief and even joy. I kid you not! To go one large step forward, when I had brain surgery after a car accident some years ago, I called on a Bach Flower specialist, Mary Ann Dittmeier, who prepared a formula that worked miraculously. I resumed my work schedule in a few days! Her expertise is invaluable. Even today I call her for more profound formulae. I invite you to read her more technical, perceptive and astute study on the subject of Bach Flower Remedies.
Bach Flowers ─ Natural Support
for All Creatures Great and Small
by Mary Ann Dittmeier
How often does one thoroughly enjoy her profession? Well, here’s one! It is such a joy to assist folks with the Bach Flowers and experience their life enhancing changes using this subtle healing method. I am proud to serve all of my clients – including spirited children, adults, animals and plants, too.
Bach® Flower Remedies are derived from plants grown on the English countryside. They were discovered by Dr. Edward Bach, a noted physician, researcher and naturalist. He knew that one’s attitude toward health and illness is key to personal fulfillment and an overall sense of wellbeing. Bach Flowers are still chosen from the areas Dr. Bach used in the 1920’s and are processed by hand at the peak of their bloom. Bach Flowers have been used for over 70 years to achieve balance in mind, body and spirit by healing professionals and lay people alike. The 38 liquid essences are completely safe and non-addictive. They are appropriate for all folks — pregnant and lactating mothers, infants, teens, adults and seniors. They are a harmless compliment to any other natural and medical healing modality with virtually no side effects.
Bach® Rescue Remedy is the most well known of all the essences. It offers five Bach Flowers in one formula. It is immediately effective in emergency situations and for everyday stress — taking exams, confrontations, living with teenagers, tight schedules, traffic, dealing with challenging people, receiving bad news, etc. It is available in several forms: 10 or 20 ml liquid and the popular, convenient Rescue Remedy Spray. Rescue Sleep includes six essences to calm the mind, making sleep more possible. Rescue Remedy Cream is an easily absorbed cream excellent for soothing irritated skin, minor cuts, bruises, bug bites, muscle massage, chapped lips, sunburn, diaper rash and more!
The Bach Flowers help parents and infants through the birthing process, sleeping patterns, crying, neediness, teething, etc. They can guide children through the formative years, managing body changes, self-esteem, peer pressure, the demands of in-school and after-school responsibilities, and even dealing with the pressures of making mature choices approaching adulthood.
The Bach Flowers can lessen fatigue, anxiety, fear, worry, indecisiveness, sleeplessness, procrastination, anger, resentment, past trauma, overwhelming feelings, detoxifying from illness, negative emotions and more. The Bach Flowers have four essences which deal with depression naturally. It is a pleasure to guide my clients in this simple healing system.
Mary Ann Dittmeier, BFRP is a Bach Foundation Registered Practitioner and President of FIND YOUR BALANCE, INC. For information, supplies, literature or to schedule an appointment, call Mary Ann at 631-475-8308.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Oops! A Half-Eaten Strawberry
It almost landed in the blender while I was presenting a hands-on, Let’s Cook Together demonstration for 20-plus children ages four to seven and adults at a local library. My workshop familiarizes children with a variety of colorful vegetables and fruit. It also introduces the fun of shopping for ingredients for children to prepare and serve easy dishes at home together with an adult.
We were setting up a fabulous, blended breakfast beverage of sliced banana, strawberry, and orange, with cinnamon, honey, a bit of Barleans Flavored Cod Liver Oil, a bit of Barleans Protein Powder, and rice milk. Each child used a fork to select his or her own banana chunk and strawberry. No fingers, please! Oops! One youngster nearly popped his half-eaten strawberry into the blender. Thank goodness I caught him just in time! By the way, Barleans donated their healthful products for my demonstration. They are very interested in promoting and supporting children’s health, and I appreciate their contribution.
This yummy blended beverage gives any child a marvelous start for a great day. While it enhances breakfast for those who have one, for others it could be their only breakfast nourishment. It is by far a better choice over sugar-laden cereal, for it provides a good balance of protein, alpha omega 3 fatty acid, potassium, and other nutrients that keep little brains alert for the morning and their studies.
It was amusing when a six-year-old thought an artichoke was a mushroom. That’s OK. I grew up with canned peas and carrots, so I probably would have said the same thing. I must say that these kids loved the baby carrots. While they supposedly prepared salads for the adults who came with them, they gobbled them up instead! The brave and curious little ones sampled edamame. The children energetically sprinkled pineapple with cocoa and loved the exciting taste. Dipping banana segments into flax seeds thrilled them. They were fascinated to use a special cutter to make apple wedges just the right size for munching. Most of all, the children enjoyed shaping wholesome, organic bread slices with a cookie cutter. Some didn’t even bother to spread the bread with peanut butter, eating it plain. It was so good!
The children were enthused and wanted to learn to cook! Unfortunately, the library did not have cooking facilities. The class was just an hour, not enough for entertaining questions. Thus, I was sure to emphasize and encourage old-fashioned family dining. Children need to eat with the family to experience the variety and selection of foods that adults have. Kids don’t eat as much as their parents or caretakers. If they eat separately before adults, they may not ever see a crispy salad or savor tantalizing soups. Children are naturally intrigued with diversity, and they should be enticed to different choices! Though they may refuse something new at first, eventually they broaden their selections. Use this great tip I read about: Spread the ingredients of a finished stew on separate platters to encourage the child to eventually feast on the veggies.
Soft, firm, curly, angular, apple red, avocado green – nature is rich in delicious tastes and multiple textures. Release your imagination and have the time of your life cooking and eating together with your children! I love it, and you will, too!
We were setting up a fabulous, blended breakfast beverage of sliced banana, strawberry, and orange, with cinnamon, honey, a bit of Barleans Flavored Cod Liver Oil, a bit of Barleans Protein Powder, and rice milk. Each child used a fork to select his or her own banana chunk and strawberry. No fingers, please! Oops! One youngster nearly popped his half-eaten strawberry into the blender. Thank goodness I caught him just in time! By the way, Barleans donated their healthful products for my demonstration. They are very interested in promoting and supporting children’s health, and I appreciate their contribution.
This yummy blended beverage gives any child a marvelous start for a great day. While it enhances breakfast for those who have one, for others it could be their only breakfast nourishment. It is by far a better choice over sugar-laden cereal, for it provides a good balance of protein, alpha omega 3 fatty acid, potassium, and other nutrients that keep little brains alert for the morning and their studies.
It was amusing when a six-year-old thought an artichoke was a mushroom. That’s OK. I grew up with canned peas and carrots, so I probably would have said the same thing. I must say that these kids loved the baby carrots. While they supposedly prepared salads for the adults who came with them, they gobbled them up instead! The brave and curious little ones sampled edamame. The children energetically sprinkled pineapple with cocoa and loved the exciting taste. Dipping banana segments into flax seeds thrilled them. They were fascinated to use a special cutter to make apple wedges just the right size for munching. Most of all, the children enjoyed shaping wholesome, organic bread slices with a cookie cutter. Some didn’t even bother to spread the bread with peanut butter, eating it plain. It was so good!
The children were enthused and wanted to learn to cook! Unfortunately, the library did not have cooking facilities. The class was just an hour, not enough for entertaining questions. Thus, I was sure to emphasize and encourage old-fashioned family dining. Children need to eat with the family to experience the variety and selection of foods that adults have. Kids don’t eat as much as their parents or caretakers. If they eat separately before adults, they may not ever see a crispy salad or savor tantalizing soups. Children are naturally intrigued with diversity, and they should be enticed to different choices! Though they may refuse something new at first, eventually they broaden their selections. Use this great tip I read about: Spread the ingredients of a finished stew on separate platters to encourage the child to eventually feast on the veggies.
Soft, firm, curly, angular, apple red, avocado green – nature is rich in delicious tastes and multiple textures. Release your imagination and have the time of your life cooking and eating together with your children! I love it, and you will, too!
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
The Bee's Nest – The Biochemic System
I love the distinctive mechanism of journalism that permits me to share so much of who I am, especially my genuine belief that health can be restored and preserved naturally. Many years ago when energy medicine was introduced through the New Age Movement, the general public considered its healing claims as subjective and anecdotal. We know better now! At that time, I devoted a column in To Your Health to the types of methods I utilize to maintain energy, handle stress, and heal myself. I would like to share one with you, the Biochemic System of Medicine utilizing tissue salts, also called cell salts. Every proposal listed here is absolutely safe for infants, the elderly, for all ages in between, and also for women during pregnancy and breastfeeding. I use tissue salts daily. I will, however, suggest seeking professional advice before embarking on any new modality.
The Biochemic System with its related remedies follows the premise that "disease occurs when there is a deficiency of one or more cell salts." Originally proposed in 1858 by the scientist Rudolf Virchow, the technique is based on the well-established truism that the body is a collection of cells. Following Virchow’s premise, in the 19th century Dr. W. H. Schussler, a physician and homeopath, developed biochemic treatments utilizing twelve tissue salts. These include:
Calc fluor, Calc phos, Calc sulph, Ferr phos, Kali mur, Kali phos, Kali sulph, Mag phos, Nat mur, Nat phos, Nat sulph and Silicea.
They are tiny pills that dissolve under the tongue and are packaged in small bottles. These salts reestablish molecular equilibrium, which restores health.
To make it simple, one should purchase The Biochemic Handbook. Revised many times, it is filled with incredible information. I use the Repertory of Symptoms and their Corresponding Remedies portion of the book continuously. It is a simple but comprehensive presentation that anyone can understand. I have assisted myself and many others to remedy a tongue bite, a nose bleed, and other assorted mishaps with ferrum phos (phosphoricum). For those in the know, cell salts are a very preferred solution. As a matter of fact, at a Wellness gathering years ago, I met a woman from Germany whose husband controlled his pain from cancer until he passed on with appropriate tissue salt remedies.
The pendulum is a quirky device I also use, and I shall discuss it at a later time. It offers me the ability to get in touch with my biological requirements at any given moment. Let’s be honest, does every eighty-three-year-old accomplish what I do on any given day ─ dancing, yoga, writing, promoting my book, working on my life story, etc.? I know I am definitely doing something right!
The Biochemic System with its related remedies follows the premise that "disease occurs when there is a deficiency of one or more cell salts." Originally proposed in 1858 by the scientist Rudolf Virchow, the technique is based on the well-established truism that the body is a collection of cells. Following Virchow’s premise, in the 19th century Dr. W. H. Schussler, a physician and homeopath, developed biochemic treatments utilizing twelve tissue salts. These include:
Calc fluor, Calc phos, Calc sulph, Ferr phos, Kali mur, Kali phos, Kali sulph, Mag phos, Nat mur, Nat phos, Nat sulph and Silicea.
They are tiny pills that dissolve under the tongue and are packaged in small bottles. These salts reestablish molecular equilibrium, which restores health.
To make it simple, one should purchase The Biochemic Handbook. Revised many times, it is filled with incredible information. I use the Repertory of Symptoms and their Corresponding Remedies portion of the book continuously. It is a simple but comprehensive presentation that anyone can understand. I have assisted myself and many others to remedy a tongue bite, a nose bleed, and other assorted mishaps with ferrum phos (phosphoricum). For those in the know, cell salts are a very preferred solution. As a matter of fact, at a Wellness gathering years ago, I met a woman from Germany whose husband controlled his pain from cancer until he passed on with appropriate tissue salt remedies.
The pendulum is a quirky device I also use, and I shall discuss it at a later time. It offers me the ability to get in touch with my biological requirements at any given moment. Let’s be honest, does every eighty-three-year-old accomplish what I do on any given day ─ dancing, yoga, writing, promoting my book, working on my life story, etc.? I know I am definitely doing something right!
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Trend Setter
Folks who know me for a long time identify me this way. If this term applies to my latest book, Let’s Cook Together – Adult & child cook up a storm for fun & good health!, so be it. However, I cannot take full credit since the movement for healthier children is no longer an infrequent topic. Concerns loom large with schools, parents, and caretakers alike, each often not knowing where or how to begin to make a positive change.
This is where Let’s Cook Together qualifies as a wonderful tool for both parent and caretaker. Like a primer, it presents the basic elements needed to introduce healthy yet appealing, optimum nutrition for even a very young child - before he or she can be mesmerized by the media and brainwashed by peer groups towards junk food.
The book stems from my passion to envision and ensure healthy, well-built children who are rarely, if ever, sick. While not totally vegetarian or purely hygienic, its recipes and articles are devoted to highly organic (when possible) plant-based nourishment, grains, and some protein. It offers a common sense approach, emphasizing that children both prepare and serve their delightful dishes at the family table. Although some of this info has already been mentioned, it plainly deserves repetition.
I use “primer” to express the book’s intention to encourage its readers to consider other choices … perhaps vegetarian (meatless) and vegan (includes fish) diets, or a totally hygienic (raw foods) program.
To appreciate and become familiar with nature’s bounty, it is vital for children to share in the anticipation and joy of food shopping with an adult as often as possible. With its colorfully illustrated index highlighting veggies and fruit, LCT’s Yummyum segment is a cheerful encouragement for such a venture.
As an aside I was a vegetarian for a long time, consuming a plethora of veggies, fruit (organic), grains, and beans. Then I modified my diet to include some organic eggs, wild fish, and small amounts of organic meat, turkey or chicken. I begin each meal with a raw veggie. Breakfast is a blended, green drink consisting of fresh kale, collard, ginger, aloe vera, and sometimes raw beets or celery, etc. Blending leaves all of the goodness of the vegetable bulk to enjoy.
Join the trend that puts children’s health up front. Put Let’s Cook Together – Adult & child cook up a storm for fun & good health! on your reading list today!
This is where Let’s Cook Together qualifies as a wonderful tool for both parent and caretaker. Like a primer, it presents the basic elements needed to introduce healthy yet appealing, optimum nutrition for even a very young child - before he or she can be mesmerized by the media and brainwashed by peer groups towards junk food.
The book stems from my passion to envision and ensure healthy, well-built children who are rarely, if ever, sick. While not totally vegetarian or purely hygienic, its recipes and articles are devoted to highly organic (when possible) plant-based nourishment, grains, and some protein. It offers a common sense approach, emphasizing that children both prepare and serve their delightful dishes at the family table. Although some of this info has already been mentioned, it plainly deserves repetition.
I use “primer” to express the book’s intention to encourage its readers to consider other choices … perhaps vegetarian (meatless) and vegan (includes fish) diets, or a totally hygienic (raw foods) program.
To appreciate and become familiar with nature’s bounty, it is vital for children to share in the anticipation and joy of food shopping with an adult as often as possible. With its colorfully illustrated index highlighting veggies and fruit, LCT’s Yummyum segment is a cheerful encouragement for such a venture.
As an aside I was a vegetarian for a long time, consuming a plethora of veggies, fruit (organic), grains, and beans. Then I modified my diet to include some organic eggs, wild fish, and small amounts of organic meat, turkey or chicken. I begin each meal with a raw veggie. Breakfast is a blended, green drink consisting of fresh kale, collard, ginger, aloe vera, and sometimes raw beets or celery, etc. Blending leaves all of the goodness of the vegetable bulk to enjoy.
Join the trend that puts children’s health up front. Put Let’s Cook Together – Adult & child cook up a storm for fun & good health! on your reading list today!
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Tears in Her Scrambled Eggs
On a recent family visit, the typical 8 A.M. scenario consisted of five minutes of “What do you want for breakfast, Andy?” Then I heard three-year-old, flawlessly beautiful, tiny Andy sobbing and sighing, emoting as she ignored a huge pile of scrambled eggs. Her little heart broke as her stressed, beautiful mommy hovered over her with recriminations: “You told me you wanted scrambled eggs; you must eat these eggs!”
I had an ache in my heart, gravel and rock in my throat. Fortunately for their ears, I was tongue-tied. I witnessed this revealing moment with sadness, and I was frightened for the unnecessary torment this child was going through as she drowned the scrambled eggs on her plate in her tears.
Two more mealtimes that day gave rise to an epiphany! I cannot express this sadness verbally, but just as I published my To Your Health magazine when those near and dear to me would not hear my fears for their health, I will now find another venue especially for children.
For now, let’s create a mood-altering situation: Mommy sits at one end of the table with an oversized mug of strong black coffee and a large bagel smothered with cream cheese. A newspaper absorbs her attention. At the other end of the table Andy quietly scrutinizes her dish of a small organic scrambled egg topped with a berry and surrounded by a triangle of nutritious toasted bread. She seems to enjoy the sweet taped background music. Peace reigns supreme at this breakfast. Andy eats as much of as she desires. Perhaps she will call attention to her empty plate. She will then have a small glass of orange juice and a handful of raisins as a healthy mid-morning snack, which can be transported if necessary.
Mommy is a stay-at-home mother, so at lunch time Andy assists in the preparation of a grilled cheese sandwich. Andy places a slice of tomato on top of her sandwich and then decorates the plate with a slice of cucumber and carrot. She carefully carries it to the table, feeling so proud and important. Her dessert is a whole grain cookie and a beverage of choice. Once again there is serenity as Mother sits at the table, hopefully enjoying an organic green salad, as she is dieting.
So what do I want to convey? Mealtime should be pleasurable and serene. The adult or caretaker makes the decision for the nutritious wholesome meal, and whenever conceivable the adult shares mealtime with the child or children. In addition little children who play pretend cooking games can assist the adult in little ways in the kitchen and also in shopping for beautiful fruits and veggies. The cutest vision in some avant garde markets are the little shopping carts children fill as they shop with an adult. My point is that little children are as easily swayed with good information as they are by the horrific media bestowed upon them daily.
When I arrived home after my family visit, I spoke to three young mothers. One was an attorney and two were stay-at-home, sad moms frustrated with their young children’s poor eating habits, horrible choice of food, and doctor visits for earaches and medication. Okay, Bernice this is it!
Over 20 years ago there was an array of natural healing options utilizing the collective wisdom of alternative medical professionals and metaphysicians. A few crusaders, including myself, chose this precipitous moment to publish. My To Your Health magazine was one of the publications that offered healing and hope through holistic alternatives for “challenged” individuals. Emphasis and focus was on adults. Children’s issues dealt with allergies, Ritalin as a quick fix, and little else.
Time moves on sadly as we now face incredible health issues that affect our children. “We are what we eat!” The junk food and trans fat take its toll in the adult as well as the child. Today obesity has become the scourge of our young people with Type II Diabetes infiltrating their future, interfering with a happy, healthful life.
Let’s go back to the family dining together, munching on veggies, fruits, grain, and high-quality protein. Let’s get the children involved in food preparation. Even a three-year-old will be enthralled in marketing for and preparing salad. This endeavor assures both their enjoyment and the opportunity to share a basic “old world” tradition ¾ a family that dines together whenever possible.
I recently published Let’s Cook Together to express my down-to-earth philosophy. It features a selection of fun recipes simply drawn and easy for adult and child as they cook together. Recipes include plant-based fruits and vegetables, organic eggs, wild fish, tofu, organic poultry and a smattering of organic meat. It also includes a convenient seven-day menu plan for very busy moms. The following recipe is an example of the array of delightful recipes in my book:
Millet Stuffed Apples
In itself, millet is the least allergenic of all grains. Rich in minerals, it also contains an abundance of nitrilosides, which Dr. Ernest Krebs, the renowned cancer researcher and discoverer of Vitamin B17 or Laetrile, identifies as a cancer preventative. Include this well-balanced grain often in the child’s diet. The slightly bitter taste of millet cereal is easily improved with raisins, cranberries, and blueberries.
Yield: This recipe fills 4 large or 5 small apples. Refrigerate leftover grains up to 2 days, or freeze in small portions for future use. You may want to prepare the recipe, and stuff the apples the night before and then bake in the morning.
Ingredients:
· ½ cup millet
· ½ cup hot water
· 4 - 5 apples
· Handful of raisins or dried cranberries
· Generous sprinkle of cinnamon
· 1/3 cup apple juice, organic soy milk, or milk of
choice
· Handful of sunflower seeds
Preparation:
· Adult washes millet in a strainer and dries in a saucepan at low heat.
· Adult or child adds the hot liquid to the millet.
· Cook covered about 20 minutes or until moisture is absorbed. Do not stir. To soften further, add a bit more liquid and cook for another 5 minutes.
· Adult cuts off apple tops and sets aside.
· Child scoops out a large enough space from the apples for the filling with an apple corer.
Filling:
· Adult chops or cuts apple pieces and adds pieces to millet.
· Child adds raisins, cinnamon, juice, and sunflower seeds to the above.
· Child places the millet mix into the scooped apple, filling any empty spaces with millet.
· Child covers the apples with apple tops.
· Bake in 350-degree oven 45-60 minutes or until soft. Baking time depends on the natural firmness of the apples.
When adults and parents are unaware of their health needs, how can they raise a healthy child? Again, considering the present plethora of obese, diabetic young children, were we too complacent? We must inspire a new direction and turn the tide of our children’s health. Our precious children are our future!
I had an ache in my heart, gravel and rock in my throat. Fortunately for their ears, I was tongue-tied. I witnessed this revealing moment with sadness, and I was frightened for the unnecessary torment this child was going through as she drowned the scrambled eggs on her plate in her tears.
Two more mealtimes that day gave rise to an epiphany! I cannot express this sadness verbally, but just as I published my To Your Health magazine when those near and dear to me would not hear my fears for their health, I will now find another venue especially for children.
For now, let’s create a mood-altering situation: Mommy sits at one end of the table with an oversized mug of strong black coffee and a large bagel smothered with cream cheese. A newspaper absorbs her attention. At the other end of the table Andy quietly scrutinizes her dish of a small organic scrambled egg topped with a berry and surrounded by a triangle of nutritious toasted bread. She seems to enjoy the sweet taped background music. Peace reigns supreme at this breakfast. Andy eats as much of as she desires. Perhaps she will call attention to her empty plate. She will then have a small glass of orange juice and a handful of raisins as a healthy mid-morning snack, which can be transported if necessary.
Mommy is a stay-at-home mother, so at lunch time Andy assists in the preparation of a grilled cheese sandwich. Andy places a slice of tomato on top of her sandwich and then decorates the plate with a slice of cucumber and carrot. She carefully carries it to the table, feeling so proud and important. Her dessert is a whole grain cookie and a beverage of choice. Once again there is serenity as Mother sits at the table, hopefully enjoying an organic green salad, as she is dieting.
So what do I want to convey? Mealtime should be pleasurable and serene. The adult or caretaker makes the decision for the nutritious wholesome meal, and whenever conceivable the adult shares mealtime with the child or children. In addition little children who play pretend cooking games can assist the adult in little ways in the kitchen and also in shopping for beautiful fruits and veggies. The cutest vision in some avant garde markets are the little shopping carts children fill as they shop with an adult. My point is that little children are as easily swayed with good information as they are by the horrific media bestowed upon them daily.
When I arrived home after my family visit, I spoke to three young mothers. One was an attorney and two were stay-at-home, sad moms frustrated with their young children’s poor eating habits, horrible choice of food, and doctor visits for earaches and medication. Okay, Bernice this is it!
Over 20 years ago there was an array of natural healing options utilizing the collective wisdom of alternative medical professionals and metaphysicians. A few crusaders, including myself, chose this precipitous moment to publish. My To Your Health magazine was one of the publications that offered healing and hope through holistic alternatives for “challenged” individuals. Emphasis and focus was on adults. Children’s issues dealt with allergies, Ritalin as a quick fix, and little else.
Time moves on sadly as we now face incredible health issues that affect our children. “We are what we eat!” The junk food and trans fat take its toll in the adult as well as the child. Today obesity has become the scourge of our young people with Type II Diabetes infiltrating their future, interfering with a happy, healthful life.
Let’s go back to the family dining together, munching on veggies, fruits, grain, and high-quality protein. Let’s get the children involved in food preparation. Even a three-year-old will be enthralled in marketing for and preparing salad. This endeavor assures both their enjoyment and the opportunity to share a basic “old world” tradition ¾ a family that dines together whenever possible.
I recently published Let’s Cook Together to express my down-to-earth philosophy. It features a selection of fun recipes simply drawn and easy for adult and child as they cook together. Recipes include plant-based fruits and vegetables, organic eggs, wild fish, tofu, organic poultry and a smattering of organic meat. It also includes a convenient seven-day menu plan for very busy moms. The following recipe is an example of the array of delightful recipes in my book:
Millet Stuffed Apples
In itself, millet is the least allergenic of all grains. Rich in minerals, it also contains an abundance of nitrilosides, which Dr. Ernest Krebs, the renowned cancer researcher and discoverer of Vitamin B17 or Laetrile, identifies as a cancer preventative. Include this well-balanced grain often in the child’s diet. The slightly bitter taste of millet cereal is easily improved with raisins, cranberries, and blueberries.
Yield: This recipe fills 4 large or 5 small apples. Refrigerate leftover grains up to 2 days, or freeze in small portions for future use. You may want to prepare the recipe, and stuff the apples the night before and then bake in the morning.
Ingredients:
· ½ cup millet
· ½ cup hot water
· 4 - 5 apples
· Handful of raisins or dried cranberries
· Generous sprinkle of cinnamon
· 1/3 cup apple juice, organic soy milk, or milk of
choice
· Handful of sunflower seeds
Preparation:
· Adult washes millet in a strainer and dries in a saucepan at low heat.
· Adult or child adds the hot liquid to the millet.
· Cook covered about 20 minutes or until moisture is absorbed. Do not stir. To soften further, add a bit more liquid and cook for another 5 minutes.
· Adult cuts off apple tops and sets aside.
· Child scoops out a large enough space from the apples for the filling with an apple corer.
Filling:
· Adult chops or cuts apple pieces and adds pieces to millet.
· Child adds raisins, cinnamon, juice, and sunflower seeds to the above.
· Child places the millet mix into the scooped apple, filling any empty spaces with millet.
· Child covers the apples with apple tops.
· Bake in 350-degree oven 45-60 minutes or until soft. Baking time depends on the natural firmness of the apples.
When adults and parents are unaware of their health needs, how can they raise a healthy child? Again, considering the present plethora of obese, diabetic young children, were we too complacent? We must inspire a new direction and turn the tide of our children’s health. Our precious children are our future!
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Bernice on Sally Jesse Raphael
Bernice was interviewed by Sally Jesse Raphael! The interview was broadcast on Sally's radio program this morning. You can listen to the interview by visiting Sally's site.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Living to Eat and Eating to Live
by Milt Chaikin
After reading Bernice Stock’s delicious and nutritious cookbook for parents and their children, it reminded me of an article I wrote for Bernice’s publication, To Your Health. It was called “Our Kids Deserve More Than Academics”. The article talked about what children eat and how it affects their behavior and performance in school and at home.
More than children’s behavior and performance is at stake, however. The public is learning about the seriousness of poor nutrition as the incidence of adult diabetes, heart disease and obesity is diagnosed in children. If this doesn’t serve as a wake-up call, then we are in for a troublesome future.
Countless studies have reported that young Americans do not consume the RDA levels of vitamin B-6, folic acid, magnesium and zinc. Why? Answer: To begin with, refined flour, processed oils and fried foods are used in many homes and school cafeterias. Also, sugary drinks, potato chips and other empty calorie snacks make up the standard American diet.
Today it’s hard to claim a lack of information on the subject of nutrition and diet. In fact, people are somewhat overwhelmed by books, magazines, newsletters and TV news reports on how badly we adults and children eat. So, what’s going on? It’s actually become more complicated. Just look at the information on food labels, for instance. The concept of good fats/bad fats is driving some people crazy. Vitamin E was good; now it’s bad. What’s a parent to do?
A few things parents and teachers can do is to focus on the youngest children whose minds and behaviors are ripe for learning. It’s the parents who must assume the major responsibility for shaping the tastes and eating habits of children. A good start in life goes a long way. Hence, the importance of a book like Let’s Cook Together. It provides a rare opportunity for the family to create something together: a meal that involves sharing and cooperation, with the result that something new and important has been accomplished. It’s an education in progress that goes beyond good health. In this case it’s a process of exploration and learning about the variety and abundance of foods, raw and cooked, that brings joy to their hearts and stomachs. Here is a good example of living to eat and eating to live. Not only do the children and adults enjoy what they prepare; they are growing up healthy and strong, minimizing the incidence of obesity, preventing diabetes and setting the stage for healthy immune and cardiovascular systems.
Another good reason for doing the Bernice Stock thing is to protect against the television commercials, particularly focused on young children. What are advertised to children are generally not the foods of which nutritious meals are made. If it isn’t candy or soft drinks and meals intended for small children (i.e., fast foods) – it is a concoction loaded with bad fat, salt or sugar, additives, preservatives and without natural fiber. These experiences have to be denied and/or explained to children and not offered as a reward for good behavior.
We have learned from bitter experience that we can’t depend on the schools, the industrial farms, the manufacturers of packaged foods and the medical profession. If we are to stem the tide of childhood obesity and hypertension, the home must become the bastion of good sense and responsible nutrition education. A good start for a young family is to get a copy of Let’s Cook Together by the veteran educator and childhood nutrition expert, Bernice Stock.
After reading Bernice Stock’s delicious and nutritious cookbook for parents and their children, it reminded me of an article I wrote for Bernice’s publication, To Your Health. It was called “Our Kids Deserve More Than Academics”. The article talked about what children eat and how it affects their behavior and performance in school and at home.
More than children’s behavior and performance is at stake, however. The public is learning about the seriousness of poor nutrition as the incidence of adult diabetes, heart disease and obesity is diagnosed in children. If this doesn’t serve as a wake-up call, then we are in for a troublesome future.
Countless studies have reported that young Americans do not consume the RDA levels of vitamin B-6, folic acid, magnesium and zinc. Why? Answer: To begin with, refined flour, processed oils and fried foods are used in many homes and school cafeterias. Also, sugary drinks, potato chips and other empty calorie snacks make up the standard American diet.
Today it’s hard to claim a lack of information on the subject of nutrition and diet. In fact, people are somewhat overwhelmed by books, magazines, newsletters and TV news reports on how badly we adults and children eat. So, what’s going on? It’s actually become more complicated. Just look at the information on food labels, for instance. The concept of good fats/bad fats is driving some people crazy. Vitamin E was good; now it’s bad. What’s a parent to do?
A few things parents and teachers can do is to focus on the youngest children whose minds and behaviors are ripe for learning. It’s the parents who must assume the major responsibility for shaping the tastes and eating habits of children. A good start in life goes a long way. Hence, the importance of a book like Let’s Cook Together. It provides a rare opportunity for the family to create something together: a meal that involves sharing and cooperation, with the result that something new and important has been accomplished. It’s an education in progress that goes beyond good health. In this case it’s a process of exploration and learning about the variety and abundance of foods, raw and cooked, that brings joy to their hearts and stomachs. Here is a good example of living to eat and eating to live. Not only do the children and adults enjoy what they prepare; they are growing up healthy and strong, minimizing the incidence of obesity, preventing diabetes and setting the stage for healthy immune and cardiovascular systems.
Another good reason for doing the Bernice Stock thing is to protect against the television commercials, particularly focused on young children. What are advertised to children are generally not the foods of which nutritious meals are made. If it isn’t candy or soft drinks and meals intended for small children (i.e., fast foods) – it is a concoction loaded with bad fat, salt or sugar, additives, preservatives and without natural fiber. These experiences have to be denied and/or explained to children and not offered as a reward for good behavior.
We have learned from bitter experience that we can’t depend on the schools, the industrial farms, the manufacturers of packaged foods and the medical profession. If we are to stem the tide of childhood obesity and hypertension, the home must become the bastion of good sense and responsible nutrition education. A good start for a young family is to get a copy of Let’s Cook Together by the veteran educator and childhood nutrition expert, Bernice Stock.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Wow! 45 Little Ones!
How exciting it was to have the opportunity to demonstrate a Let’s Cook Together workshop. We expected 15 to 20 four-to-seven–year-old tykes accompanied by adults at the local library. To my chagrin, 45 energetic little ones (plus adults, including some grandmas), appeared and they were earlier than expected! My most appreciated assistants, Cheryl and Ricki, and I jostled around to make this a most fun-filled event.
With some effort, the bouncy little ones were finally seated in a large circle on the floor where we sang my lyrics to Bruce Johnston’s melody for his I Sing the Songs:
I’m here to make the whole world sing
And talk about good food.
Green veggies, fruit and so much more
Will send you on your way.
The food makes you grow strong and tall;
Builds muscles, teeth and all;
Makes you the brightest in your school,
And helps you in the pool!
There were no facilities for cooking. I arranged four tables around the perimeter of the room. The longest table featured organic vegetables and fruit. A diagram of minerals and vitamins was displayed on each table. We divided the little ones into small groups and pretended to shop. The artichoke drew unexpected attention. One little tyke recognized it as something her grandma prepared and declared she would try it next time for dinner at grandma’s. Another child remembered seeing it in a fancy restaurant. We persuaded the children to wash their hands before approaching the food tables.
The breakfast area consisted of organic, sugar-free, dry cereal. Children were encouraged to choose their own fruit from bowls of sliced banana, dried cranberries, and fresh blueberries. For the non-allergic child to nuts and plant seeds, we offered pumpkin seeds, sesame, and chopped walnuts. A variety of milk in the form of rice milk, soy milk, and organic milk were available for the cereal bowls. Announcing she was hungry, one little tyke never moved away from the breakfast table! Fortunately and gratefully, some parents agreed to assist me with the throng of children to accommodate their individual preferences and dietary requirements.
Between breakfast and lunch, we sang the Peanut Butter song and danced together. I will admit with the unplanned amount of darlings, I was dropping. I used an oral homeopathic Rescue Remedy to retain my calm.
The lunch table consisted of a large tray of baby carrots, sugar snap peas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red pepper. We encouraged the children to arrange a crudite on a large tray. I placed a large, scooped-out tomato in the center, and some children filled the tomato with a dip I prepared in advance. The children decoratively cut wholesome, organic bread with cookie cutters and topped it with slivers of avocado.
The children giggled as they had such fun with lunch. The menu included peanut butter, soy butter, and almond butter. The little ones were impressed with my beet-colored, hard-boiled egg, although some were very reluctant to taste it. I wish I had a cassette to record some of the cutest quips. The lunch table made such a deep impression that some children never walked toward the dessert area.
Dark chocolate batter sat on the dessert table where the children rolled chocolate balls in shredded coconut or sesame seeds (the recipe is in Let’s Cook Together). The children also filled dates with chopped nuts and rolled them in cinnamon. Cinnamon prevents the rise of blood sugar and is recommended for sweet desserts. The children were enchanted and made sweet comments when they saw the orange “boat” serving as a decoration.
I think the 45 children had a fun time. I know I did, despite the need for Rescue Remedy. I am doing more Let’s Cook Together classes shortly. This experience taught me a valuable lesson: Prepare less and let the moment take care of itself.
With some effort, the bouncy little ones were finally seated in a large circle on the floor where we sang my lyrics to Bruce Johnston’s melody for his I Sing the Songs:
I’m here to make the whole world sing
And talk about good food.
Green veggies, fruit and so much more
Will send you on your way.
The food makes you grow strong and tall;
Builds muscles, teeth and all;
Makes you the brightest in your school,
And helps you in the pool!
There were no facilities for cooking. I arranged four tables around the perimeter of the room. The longest table featured organic vegetables and fruit. A diagram of minerals and vitamins was displayed on each table. We divided the little ones into small groups and pretended to shop. The artichoke drew unexpected attention. One little tyke recognized it as something her grandma prepared and declared she would try it next time for dinner at grandma’s. Another child remembered seeing it in a fancy restaurant. We persuaded the children to wash their hands before approaching the food tables.
The breakfast area consisted of organic, sugar-free, dry cereal. Children were encouraged to choose their own fruit from bowls of sliced banana, dried cranberries, and fresh blueberries. For the non-allergic child to nuts and plant seeds, we offered pumpkin seeds, sesame, and chopped walnuts. A variety of milk in the form of rice milk, soy milk, and organic milk were available for the cereal bowls. Announcing she was hungry, one little tyke never moved away from the breakfast table! Fortunately and gratefully, some parents agreed to assist me with the throng of children to accommodate their individual preferences and dietary requirements.
Between breakfast and lunch, we sang the Peanut Butter song and danced together. I will admit with the unplanned amount of darlings, I was dropping. I used an oral homeopathic Rescue Remedy to retain my calm.
The lunch table consisted of a large tray of baby carrots, sugar snap peas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red pepper. We encouraged the children to arrange a crudite on a large tray. I placed a large, scooped-out tomato in the center, and some children filled the tomato with a dip I prepared in advance. The children decoratively cut wholesome, organic bread with cookie cutters and topped it with slivers of avocado.
The children giggled as they had such fun with lunch. The menu included peanut butter, soy butter, and almond butter. The little ones were impressed with my beet-colored, hard-boiled egg, although some were very reluctant to taste it. I wish I had a cassette to record some of the cutest quips. The lunch table made such a deep impression that some children never walked toward the dessert area.
Dark chocolate batter sat on the dessert table where the children rolled chocolate balls in shredded coconut or sesame seeds (the recipe is in Let’s Cook Together). The children also filled dates with chopped nuts and rolled them in cinnamon. Cinnamon prevents the rise of blood sugar and is recommended for sweet desserts. The children were enchanted and made sweet comments when they saw the orange “boat” serving as a decoration.
I think the 45 children had a fun time. I know I did, despite the need for Rescue Remedy. I am doing more Let’s Cook Together classes shortly. This experience taught me a valuable lesson: Prepare less and let the moment take care of itself.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Book Signing
Join me, Bernice Stock, author of Let’s Cook Together–Adult and Child Cook Up a Storm for Fun and Good Health. Discover how simple changes in the kitchen can produce profound results in your child’s life.
Do our children require supplements?
Do our children need to go Back to Basics?
Our children need high-quality, nourishing food and the opportunity to cook with an adult or family members at meal time.
The benefits? Healthy muscular kids with no ear infections, diabetes or other medical conditions. Let’s give our future generation the opportunity for vibrancy and the bounce for every ounce they possess.
Date: Saturday, September 15, 2007, noon to 3:00 PM
Location: Total Nutrition
120 Route 110
Farmingdale, NY
Next to Gold’s Gym
For more information, call 631-385-8546.
Do our children require supplements?
Do our children need to go Back to Basics?
Our children need high-quality, nourishing food and the opportunity to cook with an adult or family members at meal time.
The benefits? Healthy muscular kids with no ear infections, diabetes or other medical conditions. Let’s give our future generation the opportunity for vibrancy and the bounce for every ounce they possess.
Date: Saturday, September 15, 2007, noon to 3:00 PM
Location: Total Nutrition
120 Route 110
Farmingdale, NY
Next to Gold’s Gym
For more information, call 631-385-8546.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Who is Gi-Gi Stock?
Gi-Gi. This is the way my great-grandchildren address their feisty, involved grandma. It is because of them that I wrote Let’s Cook Together–Adult and Child Cook Up a Storm for Fun and Good Health!
I have a dream. In my dream I see alert, healthy, muscular and educable children who rarely, if ever, have ear infections or require antibiotics. In this dream the children are well fed and are chomping on raw vegetables as soon as they are able to chew. They do not eat excessive sugar or consume trans fats from burgers or french fries. They sometimes shop with an adult and are given the opportunity to learn about and choose nourishing food. Sometimes they share in the food preparation and then carry their creations into the setting of a family seated TOGETHER (with no TV in evidence).
When I became a great-grandma, I could not sit by and observe the poor way loving moms would feed their children. Since my family would not listen to me even if I dared speak up, I wrote Let’s Cook Together. It was a carryover venture when, after 20 years, I was forced to discontinue the publication of To Your Health Magazine [TYH]–The Magazine of Healing and Hope. Now Let's Cook Together has become my new challenge.
The focus of TYH was how one can become responsible for one's health, utilizing prevention to heal ourselves. So often, many of us are not tuned into our bodies. Wellness and new modalities was our thrust. It was the right moment, for the population was becoming aware of these new possibilities.
Although TYH touched on children’s issues, the bulk of our articles were dedicated to adults. But now is the time to focus on our children. It is not easy to turn a child away from the media that displays glistening french fries and big cheese burgers; however, in Let’s Cook Together, I offer wonderful recipes and suggestions so that children can be enticed to do so.
Our children are our future—so let’s make the change together!!!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
