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Faith & Self Care Fitness

Integrative Medicine Therapy

Integrative Therapy is helping me with my pain relief 

If it’s not one injury, it’s another I never had an injury when I was sedentary and doing nothing just saying. Seriously, My ankle injury was over a year ago, but it has proven to have created some residual effects. It’s crazy how even after you heal from an injury the long-lasting issues. I am not sure if it is my age or my new lifestyle. I have to admit that I don’t always practice what I preach when it comes to stretching and foam rolling.

Lots of excuses not to make a proper recovery

Lately, it been about 75% of the time. Mostly because I switched my gym and it doesn’t have the equipment or real space to stretch. I miss my old gym and think I’ll be returning in the fall. Until then, I need to foam roll at home.  I don’t work out at the gym that I train. Unless I can work on my own. I often get interrupted or distracted by work and can’t get the workout in like I like. So, yes I pay to be anonymous at other gyms. I have thought about saving my money and working out at my gym because it is an impressive facility. But for the solitude during my workout, I will spend $10 a month.  For the last few months, I have been experiencing pain in my right hip.

I know it’s from overcompensations. I am aware of the corrective exercises needed to do to fix it. Until recently, I began to take it more seriously. I have been neglecting to do the things I need to do to feel better until recently.  I have to be honest and say that I am scared I may need a hip replacement the way it is going. So, I decided to do the things I need to do and prayerfully prolong or avoid hip replacement surgery.

The Cause of my Hip Pain

There are a few factors that may contribute to my hip pain. One, I was born with my right hip dislocated. One of my legs is 3/4inches longer than the other. I am always naturally standing on a lift which can be taxing on my right hip. Meaning just at standing I am still misaligned unless I get regular Chiropractic appointments. Another factor maybe when I was eight, I was in a car accident. At the time, they were concerned because my right side of my pelvic bone is higher than the other. 

I used to be very diligent about correctives but the last few months have been very hectic in my life. Like most people, I haven’t been making myself a priority. In essence, honoring my temple. Phew! Felt like that was a necessary confession. So much to do and not prioritizing enough me time and too many excuses. So, I finally began practicing what I preach and sought help.  

Foam Roll TFL

Imbalance and Overcompensations 

Walking around on a natural lift cause unnecessary pressure on my hip. Then after my injury, I wore a boot for 12 weeks without a lift on my right side. I believe overcompensations has brought me here. The first thing I did was went to my family doctor. I am not sure if that was helpful, but it did send me on the path of Integrative Medicine for my pain relief. 

Prescription Medications are not the Resolution

I made a doctors appointment and within my 10-minute speed visit. I explained my issues. He immediately prescribed pain medicine and anti-inflammatory meds and said, “It possibly it could be bursitis.” I wasn’t going to the doctor for a prescription. I was seeking a diagnosis which I still haven’t received. Bursitis or any itis is a blanket turn for joint inflammation, and usually, rest and prescriptions can alleviate it.  Although I have no problems taking supplements its funny, I am leary of prescription drugs.  I prefer to try homeopathic remedies and now with the knowledge of integrative medicines. 

Seeking an Alternative to prescription medicines

I left the doctor and immediately contacted my friend, who is a personal trainer and an essential oil distributor. Then I texted my Massage lady and made an appointment. And I went to google about homeopathic ways to relieve inflammation and joint pain. That began my journey of exploring and discovery of integrative medicine. So far, I have learned and tried some pretty exciting things that I wanted to share. Some have helped others haven’t but led me to find things that did. 

The thing about Integrative medicine there is no finite prescription to fix your ailments blanketly. It is about finding the cause and then using a customized approach to resolving the issue.  We may use the same therapies in different ways or orders that work best for us.  The fact that Integrative medicine looks at the problem from an individualized approach was a refreshing change to Western medicine we have become accustomed. 

What is Integrative medicine?

According to the University of Arizona Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine definition is:  “Integrative Medicine (IM) is healing-oriented medicine that takes account of the whole person, including all aspects of lifestyle.  It emphasizes the therapeutic relationship between practitioner and patient is informed by evidence and makes use of all appropriate therapies. ”

How do you approach it?

Integrative Therapy medicine is meant to be individualized. Not every formula works for everyone, unlike prescriptions.  Integrative Medicine and therapy react specifically to you. It’s not a generalized approach; it factors in your particular compensations and injuries. Ideally, what is going to remove inflammation and restore your body so you can heal? Inflammation is your bodies way of alerting you something not balanced. In integrative medicine, you’re looking to find the reason for the imbalance and make it balanced again.

Individually-  you have to look at the aspect of your lifestyle. You need to be willing to make changes so that you can heal.  It’s not a reactive approach but more a proactive approach. Integrative medicine is on the rise as people seek alternatives to traditional resolutions such as prescriptions.

I had to make a change

I changed my diet and continually adding Anti-inflammatory foods and prebiotics.  Lately, I have been increasing my movement and not just in the gym. Foam rolling, stretching, and practicing yoga for hip opening exercise.  I have tried several holistic and integrative therapies for my hip, as well. Everyone should approach their healing according to their needs.

Approaching Integrative Medicine

Fuel

When approaching Integrative Medicine, there are several pillars to the approach.  What you fuel yourself with, your activity-movement, mobility, and strength which can come in so many forms; rest; stress management; toxic reductions and restorative self-care. I used these pillars to approach my hip pain. 

First, I changed my diet.  I began to try the Keto diet to reduce inflammation as well as relieve anxiety. It worked, and when I started to carb load, I began to experience pain again. I also sought out essential oils to help with inflammation and pain. 

Supplements Help

CBD was also topically used and ingested to help alleviate pain.  I added supplements to my routine.  Before I was very dismissive of supplements.  I had the hasty generalization that they were all wrong. But like anything, there are bad quality and good quality. Once I sought quality supplements, I began to feel relief. Now, I may sound contradictory since I couldn’t take two pills that the doctor prescribed. I am not seeking something to mask the pain I am looking to get rid of it for good. I discovered some deficiencies and made since in other areas of my life. My iron was deficient, and I was missing other vital micronutrients that could help with my joint health. I added CBD, Multi-vitamin, Iron Supplement, and Collagen. Most recently, I’ve added Prebiotics to my supplements.  Use “FaithFueled” to get 10% off CBD and Prebiotic

I used to demonize supplements, but once I realized despite my “clean eating,” I was not getting all the micronutrients that my body needed. Within two days of adding a multivitamin and iron supplement my energy, mood, and recovery did a complete 180-degree shift. I used to be cold constantly and despite wearing two layers in the saune it would take me 20 minutes to break a sweat. Since adding supplements my body temperature is regulated and I am able to sweat when overheated again. I hadn’t felt this good in a long time. I needed more than what I was getting from fuel.

Activity

I began including foam rolling, stretching both static and dynamic, and mobility to my weekly routine.

Stress Management

When managing stress I recommend tryinh to do the things that you enjoy and brings you peace.  I love to garden and find it very relaxing so that is something I schedule in twice a week. I also began writing again. Writing is something that I enjoy and have put on hold for the past few months. Feeling overwhelmed with balancing work/mom life I have let writing take a back seat.  It’s how I express my self and manage my stress. I also had fallen off my Inductive Bible study, which I find very peaceful.  Adding these few things back to my weekly routine has helped with my anxiety and stress.

Toxic Reduction

Toxins are found in your water, air, household cleaners, household, and work environment. Our bodies are encountering chemicals daily that is not good. We also are always on a device that emits EMF- electric magnetic fields that have been linked to causing diseases. To reduce some of this toxic intake our family began using the ZeroWater filter for our families drinking water. I am also researching eliminating the toxicity in our shower water.  Changing our household cleaners to Branch Basics has been another switch to reduce toxicity in our home. Branch Basics is an all-natural human-safe plant-based powerful cleaning brand.  I am continually making efforts to reduce our exposure to toxicity as much as possible. Total elimination is probably impossible, but making an effort is better than no effort. Use coupon code “FAITHFUELED” to get 10% off your starter kit. 

Restorative Self-Care

I am not going to lie when it came to trying to find a solution; this was my first course of action. I also sought my Massage therapist help initially.  She does sports and therapeutic massages a little more intense than a deep tissue massage and sometimes individually to manipulate fascia that is causing issues.  Every other week I make sure I get a 60-90 minute massage. I don’t want to take a pill for the rest of my life. I want permanent relief and a resolution to the problem versus a pill to dull the senses and mask the issue.  That’s what Integrative Medicine is more than comfort; it is about a remedy. I also tried several different therapeutic Integrative Medicines. I also believe that Self-care is not only biblical but vital. We must make restorative self-care a priority.

Normatec

After a change in diet, correctives, massages, and essential oils. I decided to go to an Integrative Sports Medicine facility that partners with my gym for our members’ recovery.  The Shin Center for Integrative Medicine has been a great source of education and relief. Dr. Shin and his colleagues have been practicing Integrative Medicine for many years.  Their practice has grown as Athletic institutions are recognizing integrative Medicine Approaches.  People are also seeking alternatives than prescription-adopting what was once called Eastern medicine practices like acupuncture, reiki, and other restorative therapies.

I went to Dr. Shin to use his Hip Normatec.  It’s like a high pressured massaged that you wear.  They have it for the upper body, lower body, and hips.  The first visit I just did the hip Normatec.  The second visit I tried both upper and lower body.  “It uses compressed air to massage your limbs, mobilize fluid, and speed recovery.” It was beneficial and resolved my hip, clicking for about six weeks.

Healthyline Gemstone Mat

I went to New York last month and was invited to the Healthyline store to experience the detox and restoration of gemstone mats.  The Shin Center has Gemstone or Biomats as well, for a therapeutic approach.  I have heard of gemstones but never heard of them being used to healing.  Healthyline is known for its gemstone mats that help release the negative ions and infrared rays in our body that is caused by our modern world.  The reduction of these toxins increases the body’s ability to treat chronic pain, muscle spasms, depression, inflammation, nerve damage, and respiratory issues.  They come in mats, pillows, braces you can wear, blankets and even mattress.

I spent 20 minutes on a full at that contain amethyst, jade, and tourmaline.  The mat was heated, and I felt a little light-headed afterward, which Derick who was guiding me through the process said was not universal.  It also left me very dehydrated, and I was so thirsty for the rest of the day. I am not sure if the treatment worked because it takes multiple sessions or a daily commitment of restoring on these mats, but I did feel different. I am an affiliate for Healthy Line and if you are looking to get 10% off your order AND FREE shipping use code “FAITHFUELED”!

Other therapies that are offered at Dr. Shin

There are lots of different treatments to try. The Shin Center of Integrative medicine has a Full Body Reboot and Recovery. My last visit, I tried Acupuncture for the first time to help work out some inflammation in my shoulder. The day after I had some muscle soreness, but within a few days, I found more mobility in my shoulder. Integrative Medicine can be an alternative to traditional injury care and something you may want to explore where you live.  It is becoming more known and accepted as people are finding long-lasting and more significant relief.  If you have it available, I will go for a consult if you are looking for injury and restorative relief.

Other therapies Dr. Shin offers that I have not tried but intend to if needed are:

Cryosauna, Bemer, Float pod, Medical Acupuncture, Electro-Acupuncture, Auricular/Scalp Acupuncture, Grounding Acupuncture, Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS), Prolotherapy, Prolozone, Ozone Therapy, Neural Therapy, Biopuncture Trigger Point Therapy, Piezoelectric Stimulation, Sound Vibration Therapy, Laser TherapyOsteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM), Cranial Sacral (OCF):, Autonomic Response Testing (ART)

There are so many options for relief. Have you ever heard of Integrative Medicine? Have you tried any Integrative Medicine Therapies? Did it help? I would love to hear about your experiences.

“I received these services and products. This page may contain affiliate links.” my Full Disclosure Policy 

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Fitness Wellness

My Fitness Supplements Recommendation

My Favorite Supplements

I have heard good, bad, Safe, unsafe, junk and clean but there are so many supplements out there which one is the one for you? Honestly, I have no idea, but I have tried, tasted and trashed lots of supplements in the last few years.

Although, I prefer natural sources or to eat my calories. I have found some supplements that I would recommend for those who don’t have the time, availability or options to eat food they need. Supplements are available to increase what we lack to have in our diet or because of age degenerate or give us more convenient options. No matter the reason to have supplements in your diet. I put my recommendations together because I often get the question, “What supps do you take?”

Pre-Workout

I have found and tried my concoctions, nasty alternatives, but one of my favorite and what I highly recommend pre-workouts is Ujido Matcha Energy Drink Mix makes me feel amazing, and I believe in the ingredients.

Now the debate with supplements is if they have what the ingredient label says. It is unregulated meaning companies can put whatever they want in the container and label it otherwise. At the end of the day, I can’t say 100% yes what is on the label is what’s in the container.  I do know the ingredients that are labeled are great, clean and healthy sources of energy. The company Ujido is known for providing a higher standard of matcha ingredient source. I believe in the company and love the effect when I take “Matcha Energy” pre-workout. 

During Workouts

I also really love Collagen endurance for pre/during workouts. It gives me amazing natural energy with no crash. My stomach is sensitive to artificial sweeteners, so I have to be wary. That’s why I love Collagen Endurance not only is it easy on my digestion it’s great for healing my gut health because of the collagen. It’s a win-win!

During Workout my workout I usually drink water, BCAAs or . I typically try to time my eating around my workouts so that I don’t need to drink a supplement. Sometimes you are low on energy and need a kick, and that is when Can’t beet this or Collagen Endurance is the excellent solution.

BCAAs

I sometimes use BCAAs during workouts. BCAAs are Branched Chain Amino Acids they are essential acids meaning your body needs them. Leucine, isoleucine, and valine. They occur naturally in the body, but because of lifestyle and stressors. We usually don’t get what we need especially when following a weightlifting regimen.

BCAAs give your skeletal muscles what they need while you are training.  They contribute to preserving your glycogen stores offering you the energy you need especially in strenuous workouts which is what glycogen does-gives our energy.  Making sure that your glycogen stores are at full capacity also helps with muscle development.  If you have the essential acids, you need that you receive from BCAAs your body is less likely to break down the muscle protein that already exists to use for energy and uses the BCAAs that you have supplemented.  BCAAs are allowing you to have greater gains and maximize your workout potential.

I love MomSanity BCAAs they are usually recommended for post workout very similarly to help you recover.  Combined with a good source of carbohydrate can increase the potential and effect of the BCAAs. Yes, I said eat carbs, especially post workout. Carbs are right for you and if eaten correctly and proportionately can help your post-workout recovery.  How much do you need? On average about five grams of BCAAs is helpful to recover. I choose Momsanity BCAAs again because the ingredients are clean less than seven ingredients they taste good and they work.

POST WORKOUT

I try to eat food post workouts it is the best way to fuel your body, but that is not always available or convenient. I still have a Funnel filled with either Nuzest Protein Powder, Nuzest Fruit & Veg or Nuzest Vita Quick. When I was prepping, I would have all three because my coach was about 45 minutes from my house. It was nice to have a clean, lean source of protein ready to go for those long rides home, got my fruits, veggies and vitamins all in one shake.

I discovered Nuzest about two years ago when I thought that supplementation was necessary to be a fit person.  According to Instagram, that’s the thing to do. I needed to find a Protein that didn’t aggravate my stomach because of sucralose or other artificial ingredients.  I also don’t do whey or casein (same thing pretty much) because of lactose intolerance. Navigating plant-based proteins was not exactly fun, but once I tried Nuzest, I was hooked.  It has less than seven ingredients, so creamy and smooth and a high source of protein.

The Problem with Shakes

The problem with protein shakes is they begin with junk. There are no regulations, and after you add you bananas, strawberries, veggies and almond milk they can be the reason you do not see the results you desire.  Most people just add the nutrition labels to their My Fitness Pal not accounting for all the extra’s the loaded their shake. Like I said I prefer to eat my calories and a loaded shake can be a calorie killer. Another reason I love Nuzest it starts off low calories and carbs because there are less than seven ingredients.  If you did want to add your favorite fruit and veggie mix, it’s not as impactful as other shakes.

Then my friends at Nuzest did one better they came out with Fruit & Veg shakes which are so delicious! I give them to Milah on occasion. Also, great for the winter time when it’s hard to find a lot of seasonal fruits. Nuzest has you covered with their Berry, Mint and my favorite coconut Protein Smoothie.  

Collagen

I have written about the benefits of collagen before I can’t reiterate it enough. If you are over 25 years of age, you should be taking collagen daily.  As your natural collagen reserves are increasing as you age. This is probably one of the only supplements that I consistently take daily.  Usually, while I fast it helps me to get over cravings, headaches and hunger pains.

Meanwhile, providing me with the collagen that is depleting in my body daily as I age.  It’s great for heart, liver, digestive, skin, nails and hair and Great Lakes Gelatin is tasteless and hydrolysate meaning more concentrated and easily absorbed in your system.  If you don’t take any of my suggestions but this one it will help you tremendously in many areas of your health.

 

Vitamins

At one point I had to stop taking Vitamins because I was overdosing on Vitamin C and potassium due to my diet of mostly fruits, veggies and meats.  After analyzing my nutrition in my College Nutrition class. I found that I was at levels of 160-200% in some micronutrients primarily due to taking in addition to what I was eating a multi-vitamin.  I would only recommend a Multi-vitamin if you’re not getting a balanced diet to supplement what you’re lacking. If you eat all the colors, all the veggies and quality carbohydrates, and protein you may be overdoing it. It’s something that you should be aware.  

I find in the winter my diet can have ebbs and flows of quality due to availability. I also tend to not eat as many salads as I do in the Spring/Summer months, so I do supplement with a Multi-vitamin.  My favorite Multi-vitamin is Smarty Pants Organics Womens Complete. Mostly because of the ingredients and the formula I use is specific to women offering Omega 3s, Probiotics, B12, D3 and Zinc which is great to ward off winter germs.  They also come in Vegetarian Gummies in Raspberry, Lemon Lime, and Grape that are tasty. They are not certified gluten-free so that you may be cautious.

So like I have said before. Ideally, I prefer food over supplements but when in need or out of convenience I have these products in my pantry and recommend them to anyone who asks. I figured I would write a post for those who don’t question but wonder.  

Why I choose these brands?

I also am an affiliate or sponsored by these products. This post is not to increase my affiliate commission but to share with you what I use and the reason I have become an ambassador, affiliate or sponsored by these companies because I believe in their product.  I encourage you to do your research. See what works for you and hopefully give you the additional supplementation that you need. I also am confident if you don’t do your research and choose based on my recommendations that you will be completely satisfied.

Is there a specific criterion that you have when choosing supplements or is it an “anything that taste good” your deciding factor?

My blog is in partnership with all of these brands with the exception of Smarty Pants.  I make a commission off the affiliates links, but that does not affect my opinion. I chose these brands because I believe in the product and what they stand for. My Full Disclosure Policy

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Mealtime Monday Recipes

4 Ways to Make Rainbow Swiss Chard Rolls

Rainbow Swiss Chard

I have been gardening for a few years now. You think I am geeky about fitness I am a bigger garden geek. I try to contain it in public.  My husband once teased me because I watched an over 2 hour documentary on “dirt” (It’s actually soil, but I didn’t want to sound geeky and correct him) So, yeah I prep, plan, prepare and reap all year round.

Rainbow Swiss Chard is so easy to grow and a great starter crop for beginning gardeners! It’s also a really great green, but it’s a little earthy in flavor, and it’s not a favorite in my house until I tried a Tasty recipe one day.  Of course, I had a few of my adaptation, and from there I started making different kinds of Rainbow Swiss Chard rolls, and now my abundant garden green is a weekly rotation and an excellent source of nutrients. A member of my Bibles and Bootcamp shared a Swiss Chard Roll Recipe with our group I had to try it but with my own spin. Now I have four delicious Swiss Chard Roll Recipes I want to share; it’s actually one excellent recipe with four delicious fillings.

Some Rainbow Swiss Chard Facts

Rainbow Swiss chard is known as a “nutritional powerhouse” vegetable; kind of like that superfood category that is recently gaining momentum. In my opinion, everything that comes from the ground that is edible is a superfood they’re all packed with many micronutrients. This power green is packed with vitamins, nutrients, and so many health benefits. Just add this to your grocery list now! It’s a really adaptable green and is rich in Vitamin C, K, E, Manganese, Zinc and Beta Carotene; which I have written about before, but what’s it claims to fame it’s high levels of Betalin.

Betalin is the rainbow in the swiss chard. The pigment that goes up the veins of the Swiss Chard whether it’s a vibrant red, orange, yellow or white.  Betalin pigments occur naturally and are very effective detoxification.  It helps to engage and process unwanted toxins that we have in our bodies.  Be cautious when cooking your Rainbow Chard that you don’t overcook the vegetable will lose the effectiveness of the Betalin.

Swiss chard has an earthy taste, and I personally like the stalks better than the leaves.  I saute the entire thing cut up stems and all and put in my eggs or eating them as a veggie.

Try one, two, or all four, and let me know what you think! All of these recipes feed a family of 5

To Assemble Rainbow Swiss Chard Rolls

  1. Make a pot of salted water. A pinch will due or 1/2 tsp for 6 cups of water.
  2. Once water is brought to a rolling boil remove from heat.
  3. Immerse 4 to 6 leaves in boiling water for 1 minute to blanch them.  Remove from water and blot dry with a paper towel.  I like to lay mine on a paper towel to dry off more while preparing other leaves.
  4. Place the leaves face down. Add about 1/4 cup of filling in the center of each rollup and start rolling from large end to narrow like a burrito.
  5. Place Rainbow Swiss Chard rolls in a steamer basket and steam for 6 to 8 minutes.
  6. Plate, Serve and Enjoy!

To Assemble Rainbow Swiss Chard Rolls

  1. Make a pot of salted water. A pinch will due or 1/2 tsp for 6 cups of water.
  2. Once water is brought to a rolling boil remove from heat.
  3. Immerse 4 to 6 leaves in boiling water for 1 minute to blanch them.  Remove from water and blot dry with a paper towel.  I like to lay mine on a paper towel to dry off more while preparing other leaves.
  4. Place the leaves face down. Add about 1/4 cup of filling in the center of each rollup and start rolling from large end to narrow like a burrito.
  5. Place Rainbow Swiss Chard rolls in a steamer basket and steam for 6 to 8 minutes.
  6. Plate, Serve, and Enjoy!

To Assemble Rainbow Swiss Chard Rolls

  1. Make a pot of salted water. A pinch will due or 1/2 tsp for 6 cups of water.
  2. Once water is brought to a rolling boil remove from heat.
  3. Immerse 4 to 6 leaves in boiling water for 1 minute to blanch them.  Remove from water and blot dry with a paper towel.  I like to lay mine on a paper towel to dry off more while preparing other leaves.
  4. Place the leaves face down. Add about 1/4 cup of filling in the center of each rollup and start rolling from large end to narrow like a burrito.
  5. Place Rainbow Swiss Chard rolls in a steamer basket and steam for 6 to 8 minutes.
  6. Plate, Serve, and Enjoy!

 

Have you ever had Swiss Chard? What’s your favorite way to cook it?

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Fitness and Health Product Review Product Reviews

Healthy Gut with Prebiotics

Prebiotics are great to improve gut health

I have had poor gut health for much of my adult life. I never knew prebiotics could help me feel better.  It wasn’t until I went on my journey to honor my temple did I begin exploring the reasons behind my gut ailments.   Every time I ate, I would have excruciating pain afterward from gas, bloating, and poor digestion.  After years of suffering, I finally went to my doctor to see what ails me.  After many different tests and elimination diets. We discovered  I was lactose intolerant like 70-80% of the American adult population and had a wheat allergy.  When I removed both of these things from my diet, my gut health improved, but I still am susceptible to certain foods.

Gut Health affects other areas of health

I am sure that you have heard that all disease begins in the gut and that is very true.  How we fuel our body affects every part from the heads on our heads to our toenails.  Have you heard the quote, “All diseases start at the gut,”? It isn’t entirely accurate, but proper digestion does begin at the gut.  I never knew that I needed a prebiotic until trying Gut Health Digestive and Energy Balance for over a week.  I have been using probiotics for years but never recognized the value or need for prebiotics, which is what have been seeking.

What is a prebiotic?

According to an article from Healthline.com, “Prebiotics are types of dietary fiber that feed the friendly bacteria in your gut. This helps the gut bacteria produce nutrients for your colon cells and leads to a healthier digestive system .  ” You can find prebiotics in foods like commonly used: cocoa, garlic, onions, asparagus, leeks bananas and a variety of root vegetables like jicama, chicory, and a variety of other sources.  We don’t often get enough of these foods in our diets to promote the growth of good bacteria in our stomach that we need to have digestive balance.

Gut Connection is High-Quality Supplements

I didn’t believe in taking supplements before because I thought that was for fit people, and it was hard to find a quality brand that has quality ingredients.  Gut Connection has been in the industry since 1971 with a quality and purity standard that is the Country Life Pledge of integrity to guarantee that every bottle is high quality and purity. They are also very passionate about improving gut health.

Gut Connection has a Formula for your needs

Gut Connection from Country life has “8 different formulations that create balance within your gut microbiome by enhances the existing probiotics by using whole food fermentate. It creates a healthy stomach lining that is able to absorb better efficiently. Gut Connection has clinically studied ingredients in each bottle, providing personalized solutions for your everyday issues.***.”

What is Microbiome?

According to BMJ Journals, “human microbiome” is “The human microbiome is composed of communities of bacteria (and viruses and fungi) that have greater complexity than the human genome itself. The human microbiome has extensive functions such as development of immunity, defence against pathogens, host nutrition including production of short-chain fatty acids important in host energy metabolism, synthesis of vitamins and fat storage as well as an influence on human behaviour, making it an essential organ of the body without which we would not function correctly”

Our human microbiome is unique to us, and that is why not everything works for everybody. We have our own naturally existing probiotic bacteria. Probiotic is live bacteria and yeasts that are good for you found in your digestive system.  It’s our own unique microorganism systems that are custom to help us function.  Having a variety of Gut Connection from Country life to choose allows you to make a specialized shift in your gut microbiota composition.

An imbalance gut

Often times, our microbiota becomes imbalanced because of our American diet. The use of antibiotics, and environmental factors that affect your microbiome.  You know that your gut is imbalanced if you feel digestive discomforts such as bloating, infrequent bowel movements and feeling sluggish.  Because our microbiomes are individual, we need to use a supplement specific to our symptoms. “Gut Connection’s scientifically formulated supplements can bring back balance and connect you and your gut back to health. Country Life Vitamins believe that is all connected.*** They provide formulas that nourish and feed the probiotics existing in your gut. To help maintain a balance and improve digestion,

Fermentation is Key

Eating fermented foods is often suggested to help neutralize or balance your gut.  People either don’t like or don’t get enough fermented foods in their diets.  These essentials prebiotics can help relieve some of our digestive issues.  The gut connection has created an ingredient that is called fermentate. This ingredient allows the gut to build nutrients and metabolites to build a healthy microbiome.  That is what makes Gut Connection different from other digestive supplements. With the eight different formulas, you can match the type of digestive support that you need, whether it is a balance in digestive, cognitive, stress, energy, mood, sleep, and weight. You can pick the supplement combination that helps to improve your health and customize your needs.  I will be traveling next week so, I plan on taking Digestive, Immune, and Energy balance to keep me balanced while I am living in travel mode, which can cause anxiety.

Should I stop using probiotics?

I’m not a doctor, but you can use Gut Connections with probiotics; they are two different things. Prebiotics supports the probiotics. It is not necessary to take a prebiotic for your probiotic to work. It will make the probiotic more effective.  Probiotics are to help breakdown foods during digestions and prebiotics are not found in your body, and they give your probiotic something to consume. Using them together is called microbiome therapy. It’s really up to you and of course, consult a doctor. People have found positive results from consuming both at amounts and what works for them. Keep in mind that many probiotics have dairy in them so if you are intolerant, make sure you read the ingredients. Gut Connection from Country life is lactose-free.

All the Free’s

I get teased from eating with wheat-free, dairy-free, and trying to be sugar-free but it makes my gut happy. I am all about honor your temple, and we are individuals, not everything is for everyone. And, I have found something that keeps me feeling good and living a good, which is honoring my temple.

Country Life is:

  • gluten-free and certified gluten-free
  • vegan and certified by AVA
  • soy free,
  • wheat free,
  • sugar-free
  • salt-free
  • artificial: colors, flavors, and sweeteners-free,
  • kosher
  • and there is no magnesium stearate. This ingredient causes diarrhea and why many people don’t want to take a probiotic supplement. Most importantly, Gut Health Connection by Country Life is probiotic-free.  Now that I know the difference. It will be something I look for and educate others on when suggesting a digestive supplement.

Do I need Gut Connection from Country Life?

I can’t reiterate enough every gut is different, and you have to do what honors your temple. People who are feeling imbalanced gut symptoms and desire improving their digestion. My suggestion would be to try the different formulas. See if they help to improve your gut health and find balance.

Were you aware of prebiotics were different from probiotics?

*** These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
“I received this product for free from Moms Meet and Country Life Vitamins (momsmeet.com) to use and post my honest opinions. Compensation for this post was provided, and this page may contain affiliate links.”
 
 
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Gluten Free Recipes

Cassava Flour Tortillas are Grain Free, Nut Free, Gluten Free and Tasty

 

Grain Free and Gluten Free Cassava Flour Tortillas

I have been about 95% gluten-free for two years. (I make exceptions for donuts from time to time). Since going gluten-free, I have had to forego some foods, but I have gained so much. Minimal digestion issues, clearer skin, more energy, and I actually enjoy eating food again. The reason I stopped eating gluten is that I discovered an allergy to wheat using a prick test from my Allergist.  Since then, I have tried to remove it from my diet. When I do eat wheat if I have a runny nose, itchy eyes, throat, tongue, mouth, skin breakouts, and digestive issues usually constipation. Since removing wheat from my diet, I don’t experience any of those symptoms. I don’t believe in living life on a diet, but I do believe in honoring my temple. Eating wheat doesn’t serve me well, so for the last two years, I have been removing it and finding alternatives to wheat. I also enjoy experimenting in the kitchen to invent grain-free options to my old faves.

Tortillas are a staple purchase in my home.  My girls will wrap up anything for breakfast.lunch and dinner.  I was substituting my tortillas for the corn, but sometimes you want a soft flour tortilla.  Over the last few years, I have been able to figure out ways to swap recipes for gluten-free ingredients.  It’s all about the flour different gluten-free flours work well for different things. Like almond flour is great for cornbread but makes cakes a little gritty. Rice flour is great for frying and baking.

Cassava Flour is Easy to use with Gluten-Free Baking

I have been playing with Cassava flour for about a month, and I love it. It’s nut-free, grain free and gluten free. Very fine and easy to work with the Cassava is a root vegetable. Cassava flour is the whole root, simply peeled, dried and ground. So, last night I experimented and created this four-ingredient Cassava Flour Tortilla! It was effortless, and they turned out very tasty!  I am learning that just because it’s gluten-free doesn’t mean that I have to forego the things I love.  I have had some gluten free fails, but this one was a win! These are sturdy, pliable, and taste delicious when you stuff them with whatever you feel.

One thing that you have to consider when baking differently than you’re accustomed too is that flavor and texture won’t be exactly what you’re missing but if you can find an equal substitute give it a try.  I have made some wraps with these tortillas, and they held up well.  I also made a Dairy-free Enchilada bake that was tasty, and Cassava Tortillas held up fine for leftovers the next day.

 

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So, if you’re looking for a gluten-free, grain-free, nut-free and dairy-free flour tortilla, I would give these a try! I am also sharing two recipes. Give my Enchilada Bake a try and let me know what you think?

 

 

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