Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Friday, June 26, 2009
Meatball surprise rolls
I couldn't think of a better name to call these. We used frozen meatballs and frozen bread dough but you can use your own if you do not have the FG list. I just plopped a meatball in the dough and added a strip of white cheese on top, closed it up into a little ball, and baked for 20 minutes. They looked like rolls when they came out of the oven but they had a yummy surprise inside.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Okonomiyaki
http://theoriginalmybentodiet.blogspot.com/2009/06/okonomiyaki-bento-recipe-what-i-like.html
mmm, this looks yummy!
mmm, this looks yummy!
Friday, June 5, 2009
yay
This is my first time writing in on the FG message board, and I'm wanting to share a success story in hopes of encouraging others! My family of three joined the program in March in support of my sister's family and also to see if it would make a difference for my husband (32) and daughter (2 1/2)...both seemed like they might be chemically sensitive after researching through the FG website and taking the survey.
With our daughter we noticed immediate changes just after a few days on program. Her "edgey-ness" subsided, her reactions both high and low weren't as extreme, she was getting along with other kids, was less demanding and in general a much happier little girl and continues to be! She is still 2, so an occasional tantrum and defiance exists, but it just feels like she's lingered into the average range behavior wise instead of an extremely demanding FULL TIME and a HALF 2 year old! YIPPEE!
As for my husband, changes were also immediate...but not in a positive way. His anger/temper got worse, his reactions more extreme, his outbursts/cursing more intense (especially with road rage), his energy and patience was lacking and in general he seemed angry at the world. Often things I've noticed in him before, but at an even more extreme level.
Through my sister's encouragement on the program....and reading posts and information about detox....we stuck it out for over EIGHT WEEKS before witnessing what I can only attribute to a MIRACLE! In the blink of an eye, my husband turned a HUGE corner. He is laughing, singing, telling funny jokes, playing ponies with our daughter, working on PROJECT after PROJECT around our house and in the yard (a rarity before FG!), and even often asking what he can do to help me! He has even stated "I feel like myself again!" And as for me, it feels like I have a partner in life now that includes give and take instead always feeling like the giver! It is so much easier to give when there is balance and I am SOOO thankful! I kept thinking...this is too good to be true....it's going to end...this can't be real...this can't last. But, I can honestly tell you that the past 4 weeks have been the best it's ever been in our nine years of marriage....and it's only going to get better from here!!! THANK YOU FEINGOLD PROGRAM and volunteers....you've saved my family! :)
With our daughter we noticed immediate changes just after a few days on program. Her "edgey-ness" subsided, her reactions both high and low weren't as extreme, she was getting along with other kids, was less demanding and in general a much happier little girl and continues to be! She is still 2, so an occasional tantrum and defiance exists, but it just feels like she's lingered into the average range behavior wise instead of an extremely demanding FULL TIME and a HALF 2 year old! YIPPEE!
As for my husband, changes were also immediate...but not in a positive way. His anger/temper got worse, his reactions more extreme, his outbursts/cursing more intense (especially with road rage), his energy and patience was lacking and in general he seemed angry at the world. Often things I've noticed in him before, but at an even more extreme level.
Through my sister's encouragement on the program....and reading posts and information about detox....we stuck it out for over EIGHT WEEKS before witnessing what I can only attribute to a MIRACLE! In the blink of an eye, my husband turned a HUGE corner. He is laughing, singing, telling funny jokes, playing ponies with our daughter, working on PROJECT after PROJECT around our house and in the yard (a rarity before FG!), and even often asking what he can do to help me! He has even stated "I feel like myself again!" And as for me, it feels like I have a partner in life now that includes give and take instead always feeling like the giver! It is so much easier to give when there is balance and I am SOOO thankful! I kept thinking...this is too good to be true....it's going to end...this can't be real...this can't last. But, I can honestly tell you that the past 4 weeks have been the best it's ever been in our nine years of marriage....and it's only going to get better from here!!! THANK YOU FEINGOLD PROGRAM and volunteers....you've saved my family! :)
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Message from a Mom
Dear Feingold,
I would just like to thank everyone who has helped put this program together. This diet has changed our lives forever.
My oldest daughter was born with a great personality and strong will. She was also born with many allergies. When she was about 4 months old she had her first ear infection, was given Tylenol and antibiotic. She then continued to have ear infections every month until she was 6 years old. We always treated her with Tylenol or Motrin and what ever the new antibiotic was prescribed. She also vomited 2 or 3 times a day.
She was seen by specialist after specialist who gave out new medication. or testing. Always the same response by the doctors "We don't see anything wrong." Meanwhile, she would throw temper tantrums 3 or 4 times a day sometimes for an hour. She would bite herself, scratch, throw items, cry till she vomited and her eyes would glow with anger. We always chalked it up to the terrible two's, horrible three's, strong willed child, maybe she was over tired, spoiled, etc., etc., etc.
When she was about 4 years old we were referred to a eating and behavior specialist. She was suppose to help her become more aware of how much she was eating and when she was full. Also, to help us to set up behavior charts. She then continued to treat us as though we were crazy and nothing was really wrong with our daughter. She didn't seem to believe that we were all being tortured by something. I knew that something was very wrong with her but couldn't help her.
We then broke down and took her to a child psychologist and psychiatrist. They put her on anti-psychotic and adhd medication. We we devastated for a long time. We had moved and found new doctors who confirmed the same diagnosis of bi-polar, adhd, OCD, and odd. The medications were not helping, the charts did not entirely work, and we were being advised to try a third medication. She still was throwing tantrums, nightmares, clothing issues, chewing issues, defiance, throwing up, and ear infections.
We were lost, frustrated and not willing to continue down this same road any longer. We had heard of the Feingold diet years before from a friend and honestly thought that she was crazy. How in the world could food make you sick? Well, I called that friend and we went through the process of the Feingold Diet.
We were absolutely overwhelmed at the thought of trying this. I didn't hardly bake or make anything from scratch! I finally received our packet and claimed the confidence I needed to succeed. We were dedicated to making the diet work and ended up doing it for a full eight weeks before we added any thing in.
The results were shocking! Our daughter was normal! After being on the diet for about 4 weeks we removed the anti-psychotic and two weeks later we removed the adhd medication. She was medication free and symptom free. No more fits, screaming, crying, obsession, nightmares or vomiting!!!! The doctors were absolutely dumbfounded. We had shown them a way to cure not just treat out daughter.
The main culprit causing all of our grief was red dye. Any time she had red dye she would have symptoms for two days. Red dye is in so many things! We gave it in all medications, popsicles, fruit snacks, candy and Kool-Aid. Our daughter is now 11 and lives a great normal healthy life. We tell anyone who listen our story and about how the Feingold Diet changed our lives! Thank you again for all that you do.
I would just like to thank everyone who has helped put this program together. This diet has changed our lives forever.
My oldest daughter was born with a great personality and strong will. She was also born with many allergies. When she was about 4 months old she had her first ear infection, was given Tylenol and antibiotic. She then continued to have ear infections every month until she was 6 years old. We always treated her with Tylenol or Motrin and what ever the new antibiotic was prescribed. She also vomited 2 or 3 times a day.
She was seen by specialist after specialist who gave out new medication. or testing. Always the same response by the doctors "We don't see anything wrong." Meanwhile, she would throw temper tantrums 3 or 4 times a day sometimes for an hour. She would bite herself, scratch, throw items, cry till she vomited and her eyes would glow with anger. We always chalked it up to the terrible two's, horrible three's, strong willed child, maybe she was over tired, spoiled, etc., etc., etc.
When she was about 4 years old we were referred to a eating and behavior specialist. She was suppose to help her become more aware of how much she was eating and when she was full. Also, to help us to set up behavior charts. She then continued to treat us as though we were crazy and nothing was really wrong with our daughter. She didn't seem to believe that we were all being tortured by something. I knew that something was very wrong with her but couldn't help her.
We then broke down and took her to a child psychologist and psychiatrist. They put her on anti-psychotic and adhd medication. We we devastated for a long time. We had moved and found new doctors who confirmed the same diagnosis of bi-polar, adhd, OCD, and odd. The medications were not helping, the charts did not entirely work, and we were being advised to try a third medication. She still was throwing tantrums, nightmares, clothing issues, chewing issues, defiance, throwing up, and ear infections.
We were lost, frustrated and not willing to continue down this same road any longer. We had heard of the Feingold diet years before from a friend and honestly thought that she was crazy. How in the world could food make you sick? Well, I called that friend and we went through the process of the Feingold Diet.
We were absolutely overwhelmed at the thought of trying this. I didn't hardly bake or make anything from scratch! I finally received our packet and claimed the confidence I needed to succeed. We were dedicated to making the diet work and ended up doing it for a full eight weeks before we added any thing in.
The results were shocking! Our daughter was normal! After being on the diet for about 4 weeks we removed the anti-psychotic and two weeks later we removed the adhd medication. She was medication free and symptom free. No more fits, screaming, crying, obsession, nightmares or vomiting!!!! The doctors were absolutely dumbfounded. We had shown them a way to cure not just treat out daughter.
The main culprit causing all of our grief was red dye. Any time she had red dye she would have symptoms for two days. Red dye is in so many things! We gave it in all medications, popsicles, fruit snacks, candy and Kool-Aid. Our daughter is now 11 and lives a great normal healthy life. We tell anyone who listen our story and about how the Feingold Diet changed our lives! Thank you again for all that you do.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Supersize Me!
This is a movie that talks about fast food and the dangers therein. The main character eats a fast food diet for 30 days and has some very interesting results.
A warning to those who have sensitive ears and eyes...towards the beginning at the doctor's office the main character gets a physical and I saw more than I should have.
There is also some swearing here and there. I personally wouldn't have my kids watch this or if I did, I would know where to fast forward.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Feingold in the news
http://www.kmtv.com/Global/story.asp?s=10317904
Weeping Water, NE--A study published in the British Journal, The Lancet, has a lot people questioning whether artificial food coloring, so prevalent in foods now, is causing ADHD.
According to the study, there was a marked increase in hyperactivity for kids tested in the three year old age group and the 8-9 age group.
The research findings were so convincing the British government asked food manufacturers to stop using six different artificial food colors. Just three months ago, Maryland legislators debated whether to ban food coloring from public schools and to force labels on products containing these artificial additives.
None of this is news to the Keckler family. Two years ago, when a teacher suggested their now 10-year old daughter, Sydney, had ADHD, they didn't want to medicate her. Instead, they researched and eventually adopted the Feingold Diet, a program that removes food colorings like Red 40, Yellow 5 as well as other artificial additives.
Mom, Tiffani, says within days there was a noticeable difference. "It was amazing, it really was." She says even Sydney's gymnastics coach remarked on the change after a week.
Today, Sydney is still active and energetic, but she can also sit still and focus. Tiffani says she's not sure if food coloring can solve every child's hyperactivity, "I don't know that it's all of the solution, but it's a huge part of it."
Doctors aren't so sure. Psychiatrist Joan Daughton says the one study is well-done but it is only one and there needs to be more research.
"Is this some kind of allergic reaction going on; is this some kind of pharmalogic effect from the additives and that kind of thing? That answer, we don't have that."
Daughton says it is perfectly fine for parents to try to make some dietary changes; she just cautions that it be done in conjunction with professional treatment and input. Even if there is a link, she says it probably only affects a small number.
"It doesn't seem to be a wide-spread treatment that's going to be effective for most kids," Daughton adds.
The Food and Drug Administration contends food colorings are safe and are tested frequently. In its literature, however, the government agency acknowledges there may be some kids who suffer adverse reactions to food dyes.
How to eliminate these additives from a diet can be a daunting task. The colorings are used to make food more appealing and appetizing and are found in everything from candy to ice cream to frozen waffles to cereal and popular kids snacks.
Tiffani says there are plenty of foods that are all natural, it just requires switching brands and reading labels. But she admits when she started, it was a time-consuming task.
Still in the two years, she says her family has benefitted from making the changes with better sleep, less allergy congestion and feeling healthier.
Reported by Carol Wang, cwang@action3news.com
Weeping Water, NE--A study published in the British Journal, The Lancet, has a lot people questioning whether artificial food coloring, so prevalent in foods now, is causing ADHD.
According to the study, there was a marked increase in hyperactivity for kids tested in the three year old age group and the 8-9 age group.
The research findings were so convincing the British government asked food manufacturers to stop using six different artificial food colors. Just three months ago, Maryland legislators debated whether to ban food coloring from public schools and to force labels on products containing these artificial additives.
None of this is news to the Keckler family. Two years ago, when a teacher suggested their now 10-year old daughter, Sydney, had ADHD, they didn't want to medicate her. Instead, they researched and eventually adopted the Feingold Diet, a program that removes food colorings like Red 40, Yellow 5 as well as other artificial additives.
Mom, Tiffani, says within days there was a noticeable difference. "It was amazing, it really was." She says even Sydney's gymnastics coach remarked on the change after a week.
Today, Sydney is still active and energetic, but she can also sit still and focus. Tiffani says she's not sure if food coloring can solve every child's hyperactivity, "I don't know that it's all of the solution, but it's a huge part of it."
Doctors aren't so sure. Psychiatrist Joan Daughton says the one study is well-done but it is only one and there needs to be more research.
"Is this some kind of allergic reaction going on; is this some kind of pharmalogic effect from the additives and that kind of thing? That answer, we don't have that."
Daughton says it is perfectly fine for parents to try to make some dietary changes; she just cautions that it be done in conjunction with professional treatment and input. Even if there is a link, she says it probably only affects a small number.
"It doesn't seem to be a wide-spread treatment that's going to be effective for most kids," Daughton adds.
The Food and Drug Administration contends food colorings are safe and are tested frequently. In its literature, however, the government agency acknowledges there may be some kids who suffer adverse reactions to food dyes.
How to eliminate these additives from a diet can be a daunting task. The colorings are used to make food more appealing and appetizing and are found in everything from candy to ice cream to frozen waffles to cereal and popular kids snacks.
Tiffani says there are plenty of foods that are all natural, it just requires switching brands and reading labels. But she admits when she started, it was a time-consuming task.
Still in the two years, she says her family has benefitted from making the changes with better sleep, less allergy congestion and feeling healthier.
Reported by Carol Wang, cwang@action3news.com
Monday, May 4, 2009
Porcupines
I don't think I've posted this one yet, it's getting harder to post recipes because I have most of my old standbys on here already.
These are really called Porcupine balls but well, I just don't love the name so we call them porcupines.
In a bowl mix...
hamburger-about a lb.
about 2 cups cooked brown or white rice
4 eggs
salt and pepper to taste, you can salt them after cooking if they need more
optional:
onions
veggies
fg safe bread crumbs or gluten free breadcrumbs
extra seasoning like garlic or other plain spices
mix it all in, add more rice if you want less meat. The eggs hold it all together fairly well. Form into balls or patties. Cook it all in a med. skillet till it's not pink in the middle anymore.
We like to serve these with a huge serving of cooked carrots on the side. Don't know why, we just do.
You can dip them in fg safe ketchup or bbq sauce if you want.
These are really called Porcupine balls but well, I just don't love the name so we call them porcupines.
In a bowl mix...
hamburger-about a lb.
about 2 cups cooked brown or white rice
4 eggs
salt and pepper to taste, you can salt them after cooking if they need more
optional:
onions
veggies
fg safe bread crumbs or gluten free breadcrumbs
extra seasoning like garlic or other plain spices
mix it all in, add more rice if you want less meat. The eggs hold it all together fairly well. Form into balls or patties. Cook it all in a med. skillet till it's not pink in the middle anymore.
We like to serve these with a huge serving of cooked carrots on the side. Don't know why, we just do.
You can dip them in fg safe ketchup or bbq sauce if you want.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Popped Milo
http://everythingfreeeating.blogspot.com/2007/07/dog-days-of-summer.html
WOW! It worked! I tried to pop sorghum after watching a Bizarre Foods episode, then searching for a recipe. I looked for sorghum for months and then while re-loading on my goat feed I noticed the price board said sorghum/milo. 50 lbs were only $9 so I thought I'd try it. If it didn't work I could always feed it to the chickens right?
Well, I put it in my popper and it was great. I found that I had to empty my popper of burned kernels in between batches but other than that it was just the same as popping corn. And, the chickens get the burned ones so there's no waste.
A suggestion, turn on your popper first, get it heated a bit, then add the kernels. It was sweet and we didn't even need butter. And tiny so the baby won't choke on it. And, no icky kernels to break your teeth!
My popped sorghum averaged about 2/3rds of the kernels. The rest will go to the chickens. I heard that if you put it in a container with a little water and let it absorb that it will pop a lot better. I'll let you know in a week when I try it.
I'm sure that sorghum that's packaged for popping would have a much better ratio but I couldn't find it anywhere so I'm making due.
Also, with my air popper I could only put in 1/2 cup at a time. More than that had a lot more burnt kernels. I didn't have the problem of it flying all over the place like some other people have had if they don't put in enough.
See the above link for more tips.
EDITED: I just read that the unpopped kernels at the bottom taste somewhat like corn nuts so I tried them...they're actually good and my kids are downing them now. So sorry chickens, no treats today.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Silent Killer in your Kitchen Cabinets?
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2009/04/21/MSG-Is-This-Silent-Killer-Lurking-in-Your-Kitchen-Cabinets.aspx
This is beyond the scope of Feingold however, I think that it's an important fact. We do eat hidden MSG occasionally when we know it's there because it doesn't affect behavior in my kids. However, this article just reiterated the importance of eating real food.
Our taste buds are so used to that lovely MSG "flavor" that makes all food taste so good to our brain that we just don't appreciate good homemade cream of mushroom soup. Chicken broth tastes just plain blah. We need to retrain our brains to love whole foods; the kinds of foods that our Father in Heaven made for us to tend as stewards over this earth.
I encourage you all to start a garden, be it one pot or an acre, indoor or outdoor, and taste some real food this year. If you don't have any space, here's a great website for you. http://www.squarefootgardening.com/ find 2 square feet and some concrete, grass, or dirt, and you're set!
This is beyond the scope of Feingold however, I think that it's an important fact. We do eat hidden MSG occasionally when we know it's there because it doesn't affect behavior in my kids. However, this article just reiterated the importance of eating real food.
Our taste buds are so used to that lovely MSG "flavor" that makes all food taste so good to our brain that we just don't appreciate good homemade cream of mushroom soup. Chicken broth tastes just plain blah. We need to retrain our brains to love whole foods; the kinds of foods that our Father in Heaven made for us to tend as stewards over this earth.
I encourage you all to start a garden, be it one pot or an acre, indoor or outdoor, and taste some real food this year. If you don't have any space, here's a great website for you. http://www.squarefootgardening.com/ find 2 square feet and some concrete, grass, or dirt, and you're set!
Saturday, April 18, 2009
My article is in a GREAT magazine
www.HarvestSource.com
Hey all, I'm so proud to announce that my article has been published in a great magazine. Usually healthy magazines seem to be FULL of advertising and fake-o articles from people just trying to sell junk. I can't tell you how much I loved the premier issue of Harvest Source whole foods journal. Real articles, real people, and good all around healthy ideas.
It's normally $5.95 but if you go to the website you can subscribe for a whole year for free...and no junk of putting in your credit card number and charging you later to keep going. It's really free. I checked with them personally and they do not sell your email address either.
Happy reading and I hope you'll read my article on page 23 and 24.
Also, if you like inexpensive and healthy foods and suppliments check out the back page ad. For the first 49 NEW customers who place a $325 order Azure Standard is giving away $300 gas certificates. I wish I was a new customer. We order from Azure every month and buy almost exclusively from them.
Hey all, I'm so proud to announce that my article has been published in a great magazine. Usually healthy magazines seem to be FULL of advertising and fake-o articles from people just trying to sell junk. I can't tell you how much I loved the premier issue of Harvest Source whole foods journal. Real articles, real people, and good all around healthy ideas.
It's normally $5.95 but if you go to the website you can subscribe for a whole year for free...and no junk of putting in your credit card number and charging you later to keep going. It's really free. I checked with them personally and they do not sell your email address either.
Happy reading and I hope you'll read my article on page 23 and 24.
Also, if you like inexpensive and healthy foods and suppliments check out the back page ad. For the first 49 NEW customers who place a $325 order Azure Standard is giving away $300 gas certificates. I wish I was a new customer. We order from Azure every month and buy almost exclusively from them.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Pineapple Chicken in Foil Packet
Pineapple Chicken Foil Packet
1 cup slivered Carrots
1 can (8 oz.) Pineapple Slices (listing just pineapple and pineapple juice), drained
2 boneless chicken breast halves, cut in half lengthwise
1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon, crumbled
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon peel (organic or something you know isn't dyed, otherwise leave it out)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 Green Onion, thinly sliced
Arrange 1/2 cup carrots in center of 12-inch square heavy aluminum foil, for each serving. For each serving layer 2 pineapple slices, 2 pieces chicken, one-half tarragon, lemon peel, lemon juice and green onion over carrots on aluminum foil. Fold foil to form packet. Place packets on baking sheet.
Bake at 450°F., 15 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink in center. Remove from oven. Let stand 5 minutes.
363 Calories, 6g Total Fat
Serve it with rice and salad.
1 cup slivered Carrots
1 can (8 oz.) Pineapple Slices (listing just pineapple and pineapple juice), drained
2 boneless chicken breast halves, cut in half lengthwise
1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon, crumbled
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon peel (organic or something you know isn't dyed, otherwise leave it out)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 Green Onion, thinly sliced
Arrange 1/2 cup carrots in center of 12-inch square heavy aluminum foil, for each serving. For each serving layer 2 pineapple slices, 2 pieces chicken, one-half tarragon, lemon peel, lemon juice and green onion over carrots on aluminum foil. Fold foil to form packet. Place packets on baking sheet.
Bake at 450°F., 15 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink in center. Remove from oven. Let stand 5 minutes.
363 Calories, 6g Total Fat
Serve it with rice and salad.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Tex-Mex Haystacks
MMMMMMMMMM, we made something different today that hit the spot! It was a snowy day in April and we were all feeling a little blah. So, we had to come up with a new food. Here it is...Tex-Mex haystacks
Cooked rice, white or brown
1-2 cans (or cooked at home) fat-free refried beans listing only beans, water, and salt
shredded whole milk monterey jack cheese or other approved cheese
guacamole made with a clove of garlic, squeeze of lemon or lime, and salt
extras can include...
whole cream sour cream with just cream listed as an ingredient or approved
homemade or approved salsa or hot sauce
chopped onions
canned, fresh, or frozen corn listing just corn and salt
cooked hamburger
Just start with the rice and layer the rest on top. The kids wanted theirs with just the main 4 ingredients, Russ and I added sour cream and salsa.
Cooked rice, white or brown
1-2 cans (or cooked at home) fat-free refried beans listing only beans, water, and salt
shredded whole milk monterey jack cheese or other approved cheese
guacamole made with a clove of garlic, squeeze of lemon or lime, and salt
extras can include...
whole cream sour cream with just cream listed as an ingredient or approved
homemade or approved salsa or hot sauce
chopped onions
canned, fresh, or frozen corn listing just corn and salt
cooked hamburger
Just start with the rice and layer the rest on top. The kids wanted theirs with just the main 4 ingredients, Russ and I added sour cream and salsa.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Have a great Easter
What a great Easter day we had! The kids were sane enough to enjoy the Easter readings, there were no problems, no fighting, just peace. We were able to visit family with no sneaking of their candy. They are all doing well now towards the end of the day.
I know it sounds a little hokey but thank heaven for the knowledge that the Lord presented us about how much diet affects our family. We are truly blessed to be able to live like we do now.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Great natural help
http://organicindia.mercola.com/turmeric.aspx
I had foster boys here for a while who had MRSA staph infection. After tons of research we came across what we felt were some of the best anti-viral, anti-biotic, immune stimulating natural helps around. While they were on these things the staph infections did not show up again. I do not know what happened when they went home. I thought I'd pass them on just in case any of you need to know.
I was reminded about these this morning when I got my Dr. Mercola video. (the link above) He talks about turmeric. For our 2 year old boy we used 1/4 tsp 3 times a day mixed in carob milk. When we are very sick we'll take turmeric in pills, about 3 pills 3 times a day. I ordered mine from mountain rose herbs online. They have great, organic herbs for a wonderful price. I either cook with it, put it in drinks, or capsulate it myself. Don't bother with turmeric in the average store. It's not potent enough.
We also love raw garlic and apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice. Many people use anti-plague but I can't gag down a mixture like that. I make guacamole with a few cloves of raw garlic squished in. Then separately I make a few cups of water with either apple cider vinegar (braggs) or fresh lemon juice plus some raw honey.
In addition to the garlic/lemon mixture we'll usually add some fenugreek tea or capsules or turmeric capsules.
The last final defense for us is Vitamin D. Have you ever noticed that we don't get sick so much when there's sunshine? In the winter or if we're stuck inside of an air conditioned home in dead summer we need Vitamin D and some air. We like to pick a decent weather day and open some windows to air out the house. We also take Vitamin D IU 2000 that we just get from Walmart. It is NOT on the FG list or always acceptable but through muscle testing and experience this year it's been fine for our family. We take one every other day in the non-sunshine times of the year. If we feel like something is coming on we'll take it every day.
You can also buy some fish oils with vitamin D added. If you take fish oil you need to use one from the FG list or do some huge research yourself cause any oil can easily have preservatives. The company we use also gets their fish from non-mercury sources.
I hope that can help a little bit. We have many other natural helps that we use but those are our mainstays.
I had foster boys here for a while who had MRSA staph infection. After tons of research we came across what we felt were some of the best anti-viral, anti-biotic, immune stimulating natural helps around. While they were on these things the staph infections did not show up again. I do not know what happened when they went home. I thought I'd pass them on just in case any of you need to know.
I was reminded about these this morning when I got my Dr. Mercola video. (the link above) He talks about turmeric. For our 2 year old boy we used 1/4 tsp 3 times a day mixed in carob milk. When we are very sick we'll take turmeric in pills, about 3 pills 3 times a day. I ordered mine from mountain rose herbs online. They have great, organic herbs for a wonderful price. I either cook with it, put it in drinks, or capsulate it myself. Don't bother with turmeric in the average store. It's not potent enough.
We also love raw garlic and apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice. Many people use anti-plague but I can't gag down a mixture like that. I make guacamole with a few cloves of raw garlic squished in. Then separately I make a few cups of water with either apple cider vinegar (braggs) or fresh lemon juice plus some raw honey.
In addition to the garlic/lemon mixture we'll usually add some fenugreek tea or capsules or turmeric capsules.
The last final defense for us is Vitamin D. Have you ever noticed that we don't get sick so much when there's sunshine? In the winter or if we're stuck inside of an air conditioned home in dead summer we need Vitamin D and some air. We like to pick a decent weather day and open some windows to air out the house. We also take Vitamin D IU 2000 that we just get from Walmart. It is NOT on the FG list or always acceptable but through muscle testing and experience this year it's been fine for our family. We take one every other day in the non-sunshine times of the year. If we feel like something is coming on we'll take it every day.
You can also buy some fish oils with vitamin D added. If you take fish oil you need to use one from the FG list or do some huge research yourself cause any oil can easily have preservatives. The company we use also gets their fish from non-mercury sources.
I hope that can help a little bit. We have many other natural helps that we use but those are our mainstays.
Why do we need the Feingold list?
This was a great post by Molly on a list I frequent. It explains why we need the Feingold list or the always acceptable list and how manufacturers get away with hiding ingredients.
"Lets look at these crackers...Mr. Cheesey crackers have cheese added to the batter in the factory that actually makes/bakes the crackers. But the Mr. Cheesey company purchases their cheese pre-made from the XYZ Cheese Maker. The XYZ Cheese Maker adds yellow dye and cheddar flavor to the cheese in THIER OWN FACTORY...not in the Mr. Cheesey Cracker Factory. Mr. Cheesey Crackers do not have to tell you on the label that their crackers actually do contain the yellow dye and cheddar flavor from the cheese because Mr. Cheesey DID NOT ADD IT TO THE CRACKERS...it was inadvertently added to the CHEESE by the manufacturer of the cheese. Manufactures are only required to list the ingredients that they actually use to make their product...Not the ingredients used to make the ingredients that go into their products. Unless of course you are talking about an allergen like nuts, wheat, soy or eggs...then you can get a TON of information because they don't want someone to have an anaphylactic reaction and sue them. Sad really."
"Lets look at these crackers...Mr. Cheesey crackers have cheese added to the batter in the factory that actually makes/bakes the crackers. But the Mr. Cheesey company purchases their cheese pre-made from the XYZ Cheese Maker. The XYZ Cheese Maker adds yellow dye and cheddar flavor to the cheese in THIER OWN FACTORY...not in the Mr. Cheesey Cracker Factory. Mr. Cheesey Crackers do not have to tell you on the label that their crackers actually do contain the yellow dye and cheddar flavor from the cheese because Mr. Cheesey DID NOT ADD IT TO THE CRACKERS...it was inadvertently added to the CHEESE by the manufacturer of the cheese. Manufactures are only required to list the ingredients that they actually use to make their product...Not the ingredients used to make the ingredients that go into their products. Unless of course you are talking about an allergen like nuts, wheat, soy or eggs...then you can get a TON of information because they don't want someone to have an anaphylactic reaction and sue them. Sad really."
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Ginger sweet potato bake
http://www.5dollardinners.com/2009/04/ginger-sweet-potato-chicken-bake.html
MMMMMM, Ginger sweet potato chicken bake from 5 dollar dinners...and it's all Feingold safe!
With the chicken breast and sweet potatoes on sale, there was no doubt this dish would come in under $5! It made a whole 9×13 pan with lots of leftovers!!! The Free Item coupon helped too :)
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts, about 1.25 lb ($2.21) Recently on sale for $1.77/lb
2 large sweet potatoes, about 1.5 lb ($1.02) Recently on sale for $.68/lb
1 15 oz can of pineapple pieces, in 100% pineapple juice (FREE) Used Free Item Coupon!
2 tsp extra virgin olive oil ($.10)
1 tsp ground ginger ($.10)
1 tsp garlic powder ($.05)
1 tsp ground cinnamon ($.10)
Salt/Pepper
1 cup brown rice ($.40) Purchased 2 lb bag with $1 off coupon
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350.
2. Dice chicken breasts into 1/2 - 1 inch cubes. Helpful Hint: It’s easiest to cut chicken breasts while they are still partially frozen. I usually thaw mine about 75% of the way, making it much easier to cut. Cutting them while still completely frozen is really tough on the fingers. I don’t recommend that!
3. Peel sweet potatoes and cut into 1 inch cubes.
4. Drain pineapple juice, reserving about 1/2 cup to use when cooking the rice.
5. In large bowl, toss diced chicken breast, sweet potato pieces and pineapple piece. Add extra virgin olive oil, ground ginger, garlic powder, ground cinnamon and salt and pepper. Toss well. Transfer mixture to 9×13 baking dish.
Tossing the Ginger Sweet Potato Chicken Bake
6. Bake at 350 for 20 minutes uncovered. Remove and cover with foil, and then bake another 30-40 minutes. (This will prevent the sweet potatoes from drying out. I like them soft and moist!)
6. In saucepan, cook brown rice as directed on packaging. I subsituted 1/2 cup of the liquid suggested on the package with the reserved pineapple juice. Brown rice takes longer to cook, so be sure to start this at the same time you put the chicken bake into the oven and they’ll both be ready at about the same time!
7. Serve Ginger Sweet Potato Chicken Bake with side of brown rice.
Cost $3.98
Chicken and tostones
http://www.5dollardinners.com/2009/04/chicken-and-tostones.html
A recipe from 5 dollar dinners, mmmmmm (notes from Danika...use coconut oil or approved oil. When we couldn't find plantains we used bananas which give a whole other taste but they're still good. Plantains are much more starchy and really need to cook more than bananas, almost like a banana flavored potato. If you use bananas make sure they're greenish and don't cook them as long. Also, use a minimally processed chicken, not one with "solution added")
One of my favorite foods in the Dominican Republic were Tostones. And not just any tostones, the tostones from Giberto’s chicken stand! He used perfectly ripe plantains, fried them at the perfect temperature, mashed them to perfection and fried them again for just the right amount time…
What to Do with a Whole Chicken Tutorial coming tomorrow…
Ingredients
1 whole chicken ($4.40) On sale last week for $.88/lb. Will use the meat for 3 different meals, so will divide cost by 3…$1.47!
1-2 tsp garlic powder ($.05)
Salt/Pepper
2 plantains ($.66) Rolled back to $.33 each this week
1 cup white rice ($.20)
Salt/pepper
Ketchup ($.20)
UPDATE: 2-3 cups of oil (I used canola) $1 or less depending on the oil!
Directions
1. Place whole chicken in crockpot with 1-2 cups of water. Season chicken with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Cook on low for 8 or 10 hours.
2. Prepare tostones as described below.
Peeling the Plantain
Peel the skin from the plantains.
Cutting the Plantains
Cut the plantains into 1.5 inch chunks.
Frying the Plantains
Add plantains to hot oil (I set mine on #7 on the burner’s dial). Fry for about 5 minutes. Remove from oil with slotted spoon and place back on cutting board.
Smashing the Plantains
Smash plantains with potato masher or large rolling pin. Once smash, return to hot oil and fry again for 4-5 minutes. Remove from oil with slotted spoon and set on paper towel to rid of excess oil.
3. Bring 2.5 cups of water to boil. Add 1 cup of white rice. Return water to boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 20 minutes. Fluff with fork and serve. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Once chicken is cooked, let it cool for about 10 minutes before handling. Cut off as much chicken meat as you can. Save juices and bones/carcass to make broth.
5. Serve Chicken pieces with White Rice and Tostones and Ketchup.
Cost $3.58
(It really doesn’t get much cheaper than this y’all!)
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Easter Eggs
From kid's craft weekly...http://www.kidscraftweekly.com/eggs2_issue.html
See the above link for pictures of these cute crafts.
Hello and welcome to this 'eggs' issue of Kids Craft Weekly which, in case you hadn't guessed, is really an Easter issue in disguise. If you don't celebrate Easter please don't stop reading – there are still plenty of great ideas that you can take away and apply to other occasions.
It's been a busy few weeks at our place – I am disapointed that we didn't have a chance to try making 'cascarones' which I'd never heard about until subscriber Abigael wrote to me last week. In case you've not heard of them either here are her great instructions:
Image of Cascarones (c) Holly Chase
I saw a version of this in Guatemala and I thought you might enjoy making these. On Easter week the ladies have these huge flat baskets full of bright eggs that have been hollowed out and filled with glitter and flour. They sell them for a few cents each and EVERYONE is gleefully armed with eggs. All are either smashing them on someones head or covered with glitter and flour! The streets are full of kids and adults young and old covered in eggshell and bling!
I make them for my kids to play with in the yard. Here is how.
1. Save up about a dozen egg shells – the more the better. I do it this way – break them open as close to the end as possible, rinse, and store upside down in a crate until dry.
2. Fill the eggs with glitter (skip the flour!), stickers, little tiny chicks, confetti,etc
3. Top with a glued on bit of tissue paper and decorate the outside with paint, markers, etc.
4. When they're dry you can smash them on heads on easter morning – or open them in a more civilized manner to get a gift.
Thanks for writing Abigael and thanks Holly for letting me use your lovely photo. If you'd like some more visuals you can see more wonderful pictures of cascarones on Flickr.
I hope you enjoy this issue of Kids Craft Weekly. If your appetite for Easter crafts still isn't sated you might also want to check out the ideas in this Easter issue from a few years ago.
Happy crafting and I'll see you next time!
Amber Carvan
editor@kidscraftweekly.com
PS. A few weeks ago I removed all the newsletter archives from the website. This created a fair bit of angst from regular visitors so I've put them back up for now :)
Buy the Kids Craft Weekly book
2. Painted foil eggs
These painted foil eggs are great fun for all ages. If you're not into the idea of making egg shapes you can cut the cardboard into any shape you dream of. For a super no-fuss version of this craft just wrap some foil around a paper plate.
You will need
• card
• aluminium foil
• scissors
• paint and brushes
• cotton buds (q-tips), matchsticks and/or wooden skewers
Directions
1. Cut some egg shapes from card.
2. Wrap cardboard egg shapes in pieces of aluminium foil.
3. Paint over the top using regular acrylic/tempera paint.
4. While the paint is still wet, scratch out some designs into the paint using a cotton bud or matchstick. If these aren't available simply turn your paintbrush upside down and use that!
5. Allow to dry.
3. Confetti eggs
I find the process of sitting down to make confetti very therapeutic – but then again, I also enjoy colouring-in! If you don't have the patience to make your own you can always buy a fancy ready-made batch from your local newsagent or craft supply shop.
You will need
• colourful paper and hole punch
• coloured card
• scissors
• white glue
• paint brush
• glitter
• string
Directions
1. Make confetti by punching holes into colourful paper – it's time consuming but fun!
2. Cut egg shapes from firm and colourful card, then smother with white glue.
3. Sprinkle on some confetti...
4. ...and add some glitter for good measure, and more glitter, and more glitter! My kids *really* like glitter, much more than confetti it turns out.
5. When one side is dry, confetti/glitter the other and punch a hole in the top. Then hang from a window (or wrist) or leave one side blank so that you can use it as an easter gift tag.
4. Paper mache eggs / simple egg picture /
Now here's a craft that tells a story, the moral of which is 'keep it simple'. The premise was sound – paper mache over an egg-shaped piece of foil – but while my six year old enjoyed this craft it was well beyond the capabilities of her three year old brother and it seriously tested the patience of her 35 year old mother! In the end though we found a solution for everyone.
You will need
• aluminium foil
• ribbon
• white glue
• water
• brush
• coloured tissue paper
• tape
• blank paper and marker pen (for the picture)
Directions
1. Take a sheet of kitchen foil and scrunch it up into a ball. Once it's scrunched - take some time to press it into a smooth egg shape. Then tie a knot in a length of ribbon and tape it to the top of your foil egg.
2. Take another piece of foil and scrunch it over the top of your first egg, taking care to conceal the sticky tape and the end of the ribbon. Once your foil ball is looking suitably egg-shaped, tear up some pieces of coloured tissue paper and prepare a glue mix from equal parts white glue and water.
3. Start to stick the tissue paper over the foil egg – holding onto the ribbon to keep it from getting stuck down too. Yes, it's quite tricky and very messy!
4. They take a long time to dry but they look very pretty when they do. We spinkled glitter over one of our eggs and we're thinking about painting dots or stripes on the others.
5. When we'd finally finished with the paper mache I presented the disgruntled three year old with the leftover scraps of tissue paper, foil and the watered down glue and gave him a piece of paper with an egg shape drawn on to decorate.
Now *that* was a good idea!
Sunday, March 29, 2009
A reader question
http://www.feingold.org/pg-program.html
Sorry, I'm still on a slow computer and I can't cut and paste the question but here's the answer!
This link will take you to a sample of the food guide. You can see that each acceptable food is listed by section and then has () next to it if that product is gluten free, has corn syrup, benzoate, or other additives. The acceptable foods mean that there are no artificial flavorings, colorings, BHA, BHT, or TBHQ. Some members choose to further eliminate things like the corn syrups and that's why they are in ().
To me this food list is absolutely irreplaceable. Manufacturers hide so much that they do not list. The Feingold association researches each product via the manufacturer so I don't have to and then they publish the list.
If you ever ever ever use processed food or even basics like oils or milk this guide will help eliminate the hidden petroleum.
Stage one and stage two are in two different sections. It doesn't list bad products in the guide, just ok ones.
To keep updated you also get a monthly newsletter and emails if a product changes or as new products are added.
As a member you can submit your favorite foods to have them researched.
You get a fast food sheet with several fast food restaurants, a mail order guide, a book full of recipes, and several other pieces of information.
I will be a lifetime member simply because I want to support their cause and help with research. But, I also know that when we start testing stuff ourselves instead of sticking to the list we start to have problems again.
Sorry, I'm still on a slow computer and I can't cut and paste the question but here's the answer!
This link will take you to a sample of the food guide. You can see that each acceptable food is listed by section and then has () next to it if that product is gluten free, has corn syrup, benzoate, or other additives. The acceptable foods mean that there are no artificial flavorings, colorings, BHA, BHT, or TBHQ. Some members choose to further eliminate things like the corn syrups and that's why they are in ().
To me this food list is absolutely irreplaceable. Manufacturers hide so much that they do not list. The Feingold association researches each product via the manufacturer so I don't have to and then they publish the list.
If you ever ever ever use processed food or even basics like oils or milk this guide will help eliminate the hidden petroleum.
Stage one and stage two are in two different sections. It doesn't list bad products in the guide, just ok ones.
To keep updated you also get a monthly newsletter and emails if a product changes or as new products are added.
As a member you can submit your favorite foods to have them researched.
You get a fast food sheet with several fast food restaurants, a mail order guide, a book full of recipes, and several other pieces of information.
I will be a lifetime member simply because I want to support their cause and help with research. But, I also know that when we start testing stuff ourselves instead of sticking to the list we start to have problems again.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
A reader question
Here's a reader question I received. As always I like to answer on the blog because for every question someone actually emails there are usually 10 readers thinking the saame thing...
"I have been trying this diet for about three weeks and have made many mistakes giving my son wrong products by accident, that I thought were approved and were not. We have yet to see any changes and I want to quit because my sons kindergarten teacher keeps reminding me how she see's no changes and now my husband is doubting it, he wont say it but I can tell. Which in turn makes me doubt. My son's hyperness and impulsiveness is what the special ed teacher says will keep him in there. She says a regular class will not be able to handle him. We have a meeting on May 20th to decide his placement for next year and I know if there are not no changes she and the case manager will suggest medicating again!"
Let me start with saying that some kids are more sensitive than others to petroleum and some kids take longer to detox from it than others. Sometimes there are issues other than petro blockage also. If there was any permanent damage to the brain to cause problems you will not see 100% improvement in that area (such as physical brain trauma}. However, most people seem to see a huge improvement by the time the initial stage one 6 weeks are up. Especially with things like hyperactivity and impulsiveness.
If you are a feingold member and you are serious about this, stick with the list absolutely. Mistakes are mistakes and can't be helped in the past but if your son is toxic he needs some real time without ANY petroleum.
Besides the things he gets at home from you he may be reacting worse at school because of cleaning chemicals, air fresheners, play-doh, markers on the skin, or helpful friends who offer him a couple of skittles or m & m's each day.
My youngest, and most toxic, can get one m & m and we'll see it for 3 days. Remember the nerds on the bathroom floor episode from a few months ago?
So, that does it for the reaction issues...let's talk parenting now. I like to put a positive spin on the eating thing rather than saying things like, "dye makes you act crazy." Can you try to help your son understand that when he eats healthy foods that you give him his brain will work better? He will be able to control his actions better and in turn will have more free time and less time in punishments? Let him know that you're his partner in this new adventure and you need his help. My youngest still sneaks but not nearly so often. The times that he sneaks we've had small infractions previously and then his impulsiveness comes back. If you can truly get ALL petrol out of his diet and as much as possible out of his environment you should be much better off with his cooperation.
Third option...control your teaching environment. We choose to homeschool but you should also know that you are in control of your son in school as much as possible. Don't let them push you around. I think most states have laws now where parents can take their kids out of special ed. Make sure you have the most cooperative teacher, let her read the blue book and really understand how you are trying to help your son. Give her this website and ask her to please look into it so he/she can understand your son's issues. Do everything you can for him in school. There's always the chance that he will still sneak from friends in school and I don't know how to solve that one.
Husbands? I've written a lot about them in the past. Sometimes they are just hard to convince. They'd rather think their kids are "active or precocious" than think they have some disease or allergy. They are afraid to give up their foods not understanding that they can have brands of most foods. They are usually addicted themselves. Women are usually used to controlling the food situation so I don't think it phases us as much. The best advice I can offer is to make yummy things and keep the blue book or other information on the back of the toilet seat so it might get picked up.
"I have been trying this diet for about three weeks and have made many mistakes giving my son wrong products by accident, that I thought were approved and were not. We have yet to see any changes and I want to quit because my sons kindergarten teacher keeps reminding me how she see's no changes and now my husband is doubting it, he wont say it but I can tell. Which in turn makes me doubt. My son's hyperness and impulsiveness is what the special ed teacher says will keep him in there. She says a regular class will not be able to handle him. We have a meeting on May 20th to decide his placement for next year and I know if there are not no changes she and the case manager will suggest medicating again!"
Let me start with saying that some kids are more sensitive than others to petroleum and some kids take longer to detox from it than others. Sometimes there are issues other than petro blockage also. If there was any permanent damage to the brain to cause problems you will not see 100% improvement in that area (such as physical brain trauma}. However, most people seem to see a huge improvement by the time the initial stage one 6 weeks are up. Especially with things like hyperactivity and impulsiveness.
If you are a feingold member and you are serious about this, stick with the list absolutely. Mistakes are mistakes and can't be helped in the past but if your son is toxic he needs some real time without ANY petroleum.
Besides the things he gets at home from you he may be reacting worse at school because of cleaning chemicals, air fresheners, play-doh, markers on the skin, or helpful friends who offer him a couple of skittles or m & m's each day.
My youngest, and most toxic, can get one m & m and we'll see it for 3 days. Remember the nerds on the bathroom floor episode from a few months ago?
So, that does it for the reaction issues...let's talk parenting now. I like to put a positive spin on the eating thing rather than saying things like, "dye makes you act crazy." Can you try to help your son understand that when he eats healthy foods that you give him his brain will work better? He will be able to control his actions better and in turn will have more free time and less time in punishments? Let him know that you're his partner in this new adventure and you need his help. My youngest still sneaks but not nearly so often. The times that he sneaks we've had small infractions previously and then his impulsiveness comes back. If you can truly get ALL petrol out of his diet and as much as possible out of his environment you should be much better off with his cooperation.
Third option...control your teaching environment. We choose to homeschool but you should also know that you are in control of your son in school as much as possible. Don't let them push you around. I think most states have laws now where parents can take their kids out of special ed. Make sure you have the most cooperative teacher, let her read the blue book and really understand how you are trying to help your son. Give her this website and ask her to please look into it so he/she can understand your son's issues. Do everything you can for him in school. There's always the chance that he will still sneak from friends in school and I don't know how to solve that one.
Husbands? I've written a lot about them in the past. Sometimes they are just hard to convince. They'd rather think their kids are "active or precocious" than think they have some disease or allergy. They are afraid to give up their foods not understanding that they can have brands of most foods. They are usually addicted themselves. Women are usually used to controlling the food situation so I don't think it phases us as much. The best advice I can offer is to make yummy things and keep the blue book or other information on the back of the toilet seat so it might get picked up.
Tics are gone
This was taken from a public yahoo group that I am on...great going Sherri, this is a great testament to the destruction that petroleum can cause when ingested into the body.
"My son suffered a mild tic - his eyes would roll up into his head as he blinked. This would happen here and there.
After 2 weeks on Stage One of the FG program, we noticed his tic has disappeared.
Now that we are in Stage 2 and are reintroducing certain fruits, we notice that certain ones cause this tic to return. It's very interesting, and only further validates the value and effectiveness of following the Feingold program!
Best of luck!
~Sherri"
"My son suffered a mild tic - his eyes would roll up into his head as he blinked. This would happen here and there.
After 2 weeks on Stage One of the FG program, we noticed his tic has disappeared.
Now that we are in Stage 2 and are reintroducing certain fruits, we notice that certain ones cause this tic to return. It's very interesting, and only further validates the value and effectiveness of following the Feingold program!
Best of luck!
~Sherri"
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