Friday Findings

Good Morning. Grace and peace be unto you!

7 Kombucha Health Benefits

In research published in the Journal of Medicinal Food 2014, researchers from the University of Latvia say the following about the health benefits of kombucha: It is shown that [kombucha] can efficiently act in health preservation and recovery due to four main properties: detoxification, anti-oxidation, energizing potencies, and promotion of boosting immunity.

  

1. Detoxification

• The detoxifying capacity of kombucha is immense. A perfect example is in its ability to counteract liver cell toxicity.
• In one study, the liver cells were protected from oxidative injury and actually maintained their normal physiology, in spite of being exposed to a toxin! According to researchers, this was “probably due to its antioxidant activity and could be beneficial against liver diseases, where oxidative stress is known to play a crucial role.”

2. Digestion

• Naturally, the antioxidant prowess of this ancient tea counteracts free radicals that create mayhem in the digestive system. However, the greatest reason kombucha supports digestion is because of its high levels of beneficial acid, probiotics, and enzymes.
• Some research has shown kombucha’s ability to prevent and heal leaky gut and stomach ulcers. No surprise to us, in some instances it’s even proven to be as effective as drugs like Prilosec, which are commonly prescribed for heartburn, GERD, and ulcers.
• Kombucha can also help heal candida yeast from overpopulating within the gut because it helps restore balance to the digestive system. Kombucha is a great way to fight candida because it contains live probiotic cultures that help the gut to repopulate with good bacteria while crowding out the candida yeast. Kombucha does have bacteria, but these are not harmful pathogen bacteria, instead, they are the beneficial kind (called “apathogens”) that compete with “bad” pathogen bacteria in the gut and digestive tract.
• One thing to mention here is that candida or other digestive problems can sometimes be complicated issues to fix and symptoms might actually get worse before getting better. This doesn’t mean that kombucha isn’t effective or is exacerbating the problem, just that gut problems aren’t always a straight path to healing and at times some patience or trial and error is needed.

3. Energy

• Kombucha’s ability to invigorate people is credited to the formation of iron that is released from the black tea during the fermentation process. It also contains some caffeine (although in very small amounts) and b-vitamins, which can energize the body.
• Through a special process known as chelation, the iron released helps boost blood hemoglobin, improving oxygen supply to tissues and stimulating the energy-producing process at the cellular level. In other words, by helping the body create more energy (ATP), the ancient tea can help those who regularly drink it stay energized.

4. Immune Health

• The overall effect that kombucha has to modulate the immune system is best seen in its ability to control free radicals through antioxidant measures.
•  Clinically proven to decrease oxidative stress and related immuno-suppression, a powerful antioxidant known as D-saccharic acid-1, 4-lactone (DSL) was discovered during the kombucha fermentation process that’s not found in black tea alone.
• Scientists suspect that DSL and the vitamin C present in kombucha are its main secrets in protecting against cell damage, inflammatory diseases, tumors and overall depression of the immune system. Also, we know the probiotics found in kombucha support the immune system.

5. Joint Care

• Kombucha can help heal, repair and prevent joint damage in a number of ways. Kombucha is loaded with glucosamines, which increase synovial hyaluronic acid production. This supports the preservation of collagen and prevents arthritic pain. In the same way, it supports joint collagen, it also supports collagen of the entire body and reduces the appearance of wrinkles on the skin.

6. Cancer Prevention

• Kombucha is also beneficial for cancer prevention and recovery. A study published in Cancer Letters found that consuming glucaric acid found in kombucha reduced the risk of cancer in humans.
• President Reagan even reportedly drank kombucha daily as part of his regimen to battle stomach cancer.

7. Weight Loss

• Data from a study in 2005 showed evidence that Kombucha improves metabolism and limits fat accumulation. Though we need to see more studies before we can confirm these results, it makes sense that kombucha supports weight loss since it’s high in acetic acid (just like apple cider vinegar is) and polyphenols, which are proven to help increase weight loss.

And as always remember to...live Blessed!

Tuesday Tools

Good Morning,
Grace and Peace be unto you. I came across this article and wanted to share it with you. The more we take antibiotics the less they work for us.

5 Illnesses You Don’t Need Antibiotics For

by Chaunie Brusie, RN, BSN

It's that time of year again when you are dreaming of fun family adventures, cozy memories in front of the fire, and playing in the snow. 

And for the most part, this is definitely the season of joy. But it’s also very much the season of snot. A lot of snot. I don’t think any single member of my six-person family has stopped sneezing or sniffling once since Christmas break started and I have to say, I’m a little tired of it. 

As gross as all that snot is, however, I know it’s serving an important function. An increase in mucus production is a sign that the immune system is working to battle any bacteria or viruses currently looking to wreak havoc on your body, so I guess we’ll just thank good ole’ Mr. Runny Nose. But in the meantime, you may be wondering when your little one (or you!) will need antibiotics. Here are some common illnesses you may see this winter that actually does not require an antibiotic. 

Image via Flickr/ eren {sea+prairie}

Hand, foot, mouth disease. Surely an illness that causes horrible blisters, oozing sores, and non-stop misery for your kids would require some heavy-duty medication, right? Wrong. Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a virus so no antibiotics will help touch it. You just have to wait for this one out if your kids are unlucky enough to come down with it. 

Pinkeye. If your kids wake up with those tell-tale pink eyes and green gunk oozing out, fear not. Some cases of pinkeye are actually viral. It’s best to check with your doctor, just in case, but your little one may cure all on his or her own without any messy antibiotic drops necessary. 

Stomach bugs. An antibiotic will not help a stomach bug at all, so if your kid is puking, do your best to keep him/her hydrated, but wait at least 24 hours before going to the doctor if it appears to just be a slight illness. Anything lasting longer than two days or that includes other symptoms, such as a sore neck, needs to be checked out right away, as it could be a sign of a life-threatening infection like meningitis. 

Most colds. The majority of colds are caused by viruses and in some cases, can take even weeks to clear up. The CDC says that most colds are viral and can take up to two weeks before showing symptoms of improving. 

The flu. Same story with the flu — influenza is a virus and it causes respiratory symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, and coughing, along with a high fever. Antibiotics will not cure the flu, but if you develop a secondary infection, such as pneumonia or a sinus infection with the flu, then you may need to make a trip to the doctor’s office for some antibiotics. 

Stay healthy out there!

Friday Findings

Good Friday morning,
Today,  I wanted to share some information about lupus. I have several friends that suffer from this disease and I wanted make you aware of it.

May is Lupus Awareness Month! Get to KNOW LUPUS and help create a future with NO LUPUS by visiting lupus.org/awareness. There you’ll learn more about this cruel and mysterious disease and learn how you can take action this month in the fight against lupus.

Did you know that 90 percent of people diagnosed with lupus are women? Learn more about the signs and symptoms this Lupus Awareness Month by visiting lupus.org and test your knowledge by taking the KNOW LUPUS challenge at lupus.org/know.

Did you know chemotherapy drugs are sometimes used to treat lupus? Test your knowledge by playing the KNOW LUPUS game at lupus.org/know and challenge your friends to do the same. By spreading awareness, you can help us get one step closer to a future with no lupus.

http://www.lupusawarenessmonth.org/

And as always...remember to live Blessed

Tuesday Tools

Good Tuesday Morning,
On Saturday, during the conference, Veronica talked about the Food and Nutrition program that she works with and many of you had questions, so here is the link to the program.
http://www.sedgwick.k-state.edu/food-nutrition-health/index.html

You can also email Veronica Maples at  mynameisvkm@ksu.edu

We will let you know when we set up the meal for $10 class. Have an awesome day.

And as always...remember to live Blessed

Thursday Thoughts

Good morning,
I am so excited about what I believe God is going to do on Saturday. I hope that you have already registered, but if not you still have time.
Go to www.sistahscanwetalk.weebly.com car speakers are so excited and so our vendors. Come early so that you can shop. Doors open at 9 breakfast and programming will begin at 10.
Even if you can't stay for the whole time still come.
And as always... live Blessed

Thursday Thoughts

Good morning,
Today I am so greatful for life.  I am watching a dear vibrant friend struggle through some very difficult health issues. On one side you know that God is able to do exceedingly and abundantly above all that we could ask or think. On the other hand you hear the diagnosis and know the prognosis and it makes you think.

Thinking, what am I doing to take care of myself? How do I encourage you through this? Wrestling with the fact that I know my friend is tired of being sick but this is only the beginning. What do you say?

Lord just give me wisdom. Friends, please get check ups, eat right, exercise and get your body more alkaline. Nothing is fool proof but why not stack the chips in your corner? Pray for my friend.  The name is not important,  just your prayers.

Not really long today just please be wise in you decision making for your health.
As always remember... live Blessed

Tuesday Tools

Good morning,
I want to introduce you to  Veronica Maples, one of healthy body speakers. Veronica serves the Kansas State Extension office as a dietician and community health liason. She is a native to Wichita and graduated from Wichita ' s Heights High School. She attended Philander Smith College and graduated from Kansas State University in 2015.
Veronica is a proud Delta, she serves on several auxiliaries at her church, Tabernacle here in Wichita. She is also a Young life leader serving teens in the community.
When you see Veronica give her some love.

If you have not registered go to www.sistahscanwetalk.weebly.com

And as always...live Blessed

Friday Findings

Somehow we made it, it's Friday.
I just want to remind you we are just a few weeks a way from our SCWT Saturday Series - Healthy Me Series
April 23rd
10-2
Doors will open at 9

There will be awesome vendors for your pre Mother's day shopping pleasures.

Awesome presenters: Nolanna Simon, Jondalyn Crosby, Veronica Maples,  Patricia Fields, Dena Hudson and Michelle Vann.

Registration is required use the link below to  get to our eventbrite event
https://goo.gl/cB29Yz

We are also excited that The Black Women's Empowerment Movement of Wichita is collaborating with us in this effort. Thank Mary Dean.

Tuesday Tools

Good Tuesday Morning, 
Today I want to introduce you to another phenomenal lady, that will be presenting on Saturday, April 23rd, during our SCWT Saturday Series: Healthy Me- Mind, Body and Soul. Her name is Patricia Fields.

Patricia is a Certified Problem Gambling Counselor and Licensed Addiction Counselor with eleven years of experience in outpatient, intensive outpatient, intermediate and reintegration treatment programs. Anger Management facilitator for ten years. I've also been involved with a domestic violence/sexual assault coalition encompassing community and government agencies on a local level for six years. Certified Batterer Intervention Program Facilitator for one and a half years. Assist with educating the community about abuse by facilitating a domestic violence awareness group. 

For the past several years I've been involved in grassroots community efforts with a neighborhood association and also the Wichita Independent Neighborhoods Inc which encompasses all of the neighborhood associations in Wichita. 

Licensed Missionary and have worked in women ministry for over twelve years. Coordinated women conferences and workshops addressing life issues such as balancing work & family life, healthy relationships, and self-improvement. For the past two years have worked as a youth leader (ages 12-17). She also serves on the KSW Women's Dept Mental Health Coalition

Office Administrator with over twenty years of office and clerical experience. Also with over six years of billing experience within the medical industry specifically with substance abuse treatment. Over ten years of experience with community relations in the area of non-profits.
 
Specialties: Person Centered Case Management
Problem Gambling Interventionist
Thinking for A Change - cognitive behavioral thinking
Certified HIV Testing & Prevention Counselor

You can find her on Facebook and Linkedin

Friday Findings

Good morning.  We made it to Friday?
It is starting to look more like spring and so many of us are beginning to think about our gardens and better eating habits. I saw this article on a health conscious friends page and wanted to share because I believe it will liberate some from some the craziness, we put ourselves through.
And remember...live Blessed

http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/diet-nutrition/a37595/what-is-clean-eating/

Tuesday Tools

Tuesday Tools
I don't know if you have had the experience but watching a loved one with Alzheimers slowly fade away is very difficult. Difficult to watch them become someone totally different than who you knew. Hoping every time you see them that their memory is not so short that they can't remember your name. Below is a listing of research for women and Alzheimers. Ladies let's check these out and find out how we can prevent our children from having this experience with us.
And remember as always...live Blessed.

http://www.webmd.com/news/breaking-news/confronting-alzheimers/20160225/alzheimers-women

Friday Findings

TGIF
This month is women's history month so I want to something about a women's issue, endometriosis. Below you will find some stats that should make think twice before getting to young ladies for not having kids. Some young ladies, can't.
And as always...live Blessed

Symptoms
There are many symptoms of endometriosis, but not everyone will experience all, most or even any of the symptoms. Most commonly endometriosis patients experience pelvic pain.  Pain usually coincides with menstruation, but some women may have symptoms throughout their entire cycle.

The other symptoms will vary depending on where the endometriosis lesions are growing, but may include:

*“Killer cramps” – cramps that do not go away with NSAIDS and/or impede the activities of daily living

*Long periods – periods that last longer than 7 days long

Heavy menstrual flow – having to change your pad or tampon every hour to two hours throughout most of your period

*Bowel and urinary disorders – including but not limited to painful urination or bowel movements, frequent urge to urinate, or diarrhea
*Nausea or vomiting
*Pain during sexual activities
*Infertility

Over time, cyclic inflammation causes the scar tissue and adhesions to build up around the lesion, giving the impression of the lesion increasing in size. 

These may cause their own issues, such as organs which are bound together or anatomy that is moved out of place.
Some women do not realize they have endometriosis until they try to become pregnant.

Approximately 30-40% of women who have endometriosis experience issues with their fertility. However, studies have shown that fertility may improve after undergoing excision surgery to treat endometriosis.
Epidemiology and Disease Patterns

Endometriosis affects 176 million women worldwide, and 1 in 10 girls and women in the US.

Endometriosis usually causes symptoms during reproductive years (~12-60 years old), however many women and girls are undiagnosed.

Endometriosis affects women equally across all racial/ethnic and socioeconomic lines.

As of now, researchers have not identified one specific cause for endometriosis. Multiple theories exist but none can adequately explain every aspect of endometriosis.

Endometriosis is not contagious and cannot be passed from person to person through contact.

We do know that there may be a genetic component to endometriosis. Girls who have a close female relative are 5-7x more likely to have it themselves, but more research  is necessary to fully understand the genetic characteristics of endometriosis.

For many years, doctors believed that retrograde menstruation was the main cause of endometriosis. However, it is now understood that 90% of women have retrograde menstruation and only 1 in 10 have endometriosis.

More research is required to determine why retrograde menstruation affects women differently.

Research has also shown endometriosis can be present during fetal development and may simply be activated at puberty when estrogen levels increase in the body.

Autopsies performed on infants have shown evidence of endometriosis.
The immune system and the body’s inflammatory response also contribute to endometriosis, although the mechanisms are poorly understood

Thursday Thoughts

Good Morning Ladies,
I just wanted to share our upcoming event. Make sure that you are in the house.

As always remember to...live Blessed

Tuesday Tools

Good morning
Often we don't eat well because it is too expensive.  Aldi is going to help make a difference. 

ALDI, the discount grocery store, recently announced that they will soon be supplying mostly organic products and will be banning many pesticides and toxic chemicals.

The chemicals recently banned from their products includes Thiamethoxam, Chlorpyrifos, Clothianidin, Cypermethrin, Deltamethrin, Fipronil, Imidacloprid, Sulfoxaflor and other pesticides.

ALDI also announced that they will soon be stocking fresh meat and fish and will be closely analyzing the distributors that they purchase from.

Jason Hart CEO of ALDI said in a recent statement that, At ALDI, we are dedicated to the well-being of our customers by providing high quality groceries at the lowest possible prices and offering foods shoppers can feel good about serving their families. Our decision to remove these ingredients from all of our exclusive brand foods delivers on our ongoing commitment to meet the evolving preferences of our customers. Since more than 90 percent of the products we sell are under our exclusive brands, eliminating these ingredients will have a real impact on the over 30 million people who shop in our stores. Phil Lempert, editor of SupermarketGuru.com wrote that this is a sign of a changing industry.

Today’s shoppers are more involved with food than ever before. They want to know everything about their food and the companies that supply them – especially as it relates to ingredients and the impact on their families. ALDI is leading the supermarket industry in rightly responding to the science that shows the implications of these ingredients, and meeting the needs of the increasingly savvy consumers who don’t want artificial or potentially harmful ingredients in the products they buy. ALDI is best known for its low prices, in a recent price survey, it was shown that ALDI’s prices are 30% lower than Wal-Mart. ALDI is able to keep such low prices by ordering food through specific sellers, instead of buying a wide variety of brands. They also cut costs by limiting store displays and advertising.

They have announced that their new policy regarding pesticides and GMO foods will be effective as soon as possible.

ALDI currently only has select stores open in the US, but roughly 500 more stores will be built in the US over the next two years as part of a $3 billion expansion.

This article (Affordable Grocery Store Goes Organic And Bans Toxic Chemicals From Their Products) is free and open source. You have permission to republish this article under a Creative Commons license with attribution to the author and TrueActivist.com.

John Vibes is an author and researcher who organizes a number of large events including the Free Your Mind Conference. He also has a publishing company where he offers a censorship free platform for both fiction and non-fiction writers. You can contact him and stay connected to his work at his Facebook page. You can purchase his books, or get your own book published at his website www.JohnVibes.com.

As always remember to...live Blessed

Friday Findings

Good morning and praise the Lord it is Friday.  I don't know about you but it has been a long week. As we slide into the weekend I want you to consider a few health disparities we see within the AA community. When you know better you need to do better.

http://www.naacp.org/pages/health-care-fact-sheet

And as always...live Blessed

Friday findings

Good morning, 
The weekend is upon us. I hope that you plan to do something special for yourself overt this Valentines weekend.
As we continue in black history month I wanted to share some findings.

Why 7 Deadly Diseases Strike Blacks Most

WebMD Feature by Daniel J. DeNoon

Several deadly diseases strike black Americans harder and more often than they do white Americans.

Fighting back means genetic research. It means changing the system for testing new drugs. It means improving health education. It means overcoming disparities in health care. It means investments targeted to the health of black Americans. And the evidence so far indicates that these investments will pay health dividends not just for racial minorities, but for everyone.

Yet we're closer to the beginning of the fight than to the end. Some numbers:

*Diabetes is 60% more common in black Americans than in white Americans. Blacks are up to 2.5 times more likely to suffer a limb amputation and up to 5.6 times more likely to suffer kidney disease than other people with diabetes.
African-Americans are three times more likely to die of asthma than white Americans.
*Deaths from lung scarring -- sarcoidosis -- are 16 times more common among blacks than among whites. The disease recently killed former NFL star Reggie White at age 43.
*Despite lower tobacco exposure, black men are 50% more likely than white men to get lung cancer.
*Strokes kill 4 times more 35- to 54-year-old black Americans than white Americans. Blacks have nearly twice the first-time stroke risk of whites.
Blacks develop high blood pressure earlier in life -- and with much higher blood pressure levels -- than whites. Nearly 42% of black men and more than 45% of black women aged 20 and older have high blood pressure.
*Cancer treatment is equally successful for all races. Yet black men have a 40% higher cancer death rate than white men. African-American women have a 20% higher cancer death rate than white women.

I don't give you these stays to scare you but to encourage all of us to do better. Every day that you do something to eliminate these risk for yourself you increase the length of time you to be here with your family.
As always remember...live Blessed