All natural healing is guaranteed with patience and understanding. Having a better understanding of your condition can pave the path to lifelong success in controlling it for good.  Knowledge of your disorder, and all the contributing factors in your life having led up to your very current ailment(s), can make for a better understanding of the necessary approach and commitment to resolving it.  Inflammatory diseases are not an overnight occurrence.  Some of you may be approaching natural healing as your first form of treatment, while many of you have suffered for years upon years, and the prescription drugs are no longer helping you.  We may not be the answer to a quick fix, while for most we are, and are in no way attempting to “band-aid” your symptoms like many modern-day prescription drugs. Instead of treating your symptoms, we will show you how to repair the problem that is causing your symptoms in the first place.

INFLAMMATION: WHEN A GOOD THING GOES BAD

Inflammation is a natural, thriving mechanism of the immune system. Acute inflammatory response is a way to fire at and ward off disease and infection, as well as to fuel cellular regeneration. We all require a healthy measure of inflammation in order to survive. What happens when the body feels as though it is constantly under an attack of some sort? What if the inflammatory response persists and you are plagued with an incessant slow burning fire inside of you? This is precisely when a good thing, goes bad. The body is amazingly resilient, but relies solely upon communication between the major systems within the body (the endocrine, digestive, respiratory/cardiovascular, and the central nervous system) in order to function and heal properly. When chronic inflammation is present, these systems can no longer communicate, and disease is virtually inevitable.  Which system in the body is affected most can determine the type of disease that will befall you personally. In any event, inflammation is often linked as an underlying cause leading to several serious conditions from Asthma to Arthritis and many others in between, even as far-reaching as Obesity and Alzheimer’s.

Causes of chronic inflammation:

v      Stress

v      Environmental Toxins

v      Low grade viral, fungal, and bacterial infections

v      Chronic, low-grade food sensitivities

v      Digestive bacteria imbalances

v      Diet and Lifestyle

Symptoms of chronic inflammation:

v      Visible aging signs

v      Fatigue & Irritability

v      Chronic body aches and pains

v      Joint pain and stiffness

v      Frequent infections & Slow Healing

v      Bronchitis

v      Dry eyes & Blurry Vision

v      Indigestion/Acid Reflux

v      Skin conditions (acne, psoriasis, etc.)

v      Weight changes/Obesity

v      Urinary tract infections

v      Candidiasis

Inflammatory-related Conditions:

v      Gout/Arthritis (all forms)

v      Hypertension

v      Asthma

v      Stones

v      Digestive Disorders (Colitis, IBS, etc.)

v      Diabetes

v      Heart Disease

v      Cancer

EXAMPLES OF INTERNAL INFLAMMATION AND ITS PATH OF DESTRUCTION:

ü       Gout/Arthritis/Osteoarthritis/Rheumatory/Lupus/Fibromyalgia/Undiagnosed Joint & Muscle Pain- Inflammatory cells called cytokines lead to the production of enzymes that attack the tissues and break down cartilage in joints.

ü        Diabetes- Inflammatory chemicals release TNF which make cells resistant to insulin.

ü       Heart Disease/Stroke/Athersclerosis- Inflammation causes artery clogging

ü       Accelerated Aging- Inflammation causes wrinkles

ü       Skin Disorders/Allergies- Inflammation that releases chemicals causing imbalances and healthy bacteria destruction. Results show in both internal and external reactions and heightened sensitivities on many levels.

ü       IBS/Colitis/Crohn’s- Inflammatory cells are found in abundance in either or both the large and small intestines producing results that could determine your symptoms and in turn your diagnosis.

ü        Asthma & COPD- Both driven by inflammation of the lungs and airways. Asthma is typically the result of allergies (again still inflammation) and often referred to as a "rash" in the lungs. COPD is the result of long term inflammation that has caused destruction actually plugging the airways.

ü       Alzheimer’s- Chronic inflammation revs up the transportation of a protein known as amyloid beta protein into the brain leading to neurological damage.

ü       Cancer- a multi-faceted link driving cancer initiation and promotion as a result of increased production of pro-inflammatory mediators that mediate tumor cell proliferation, transformation, metastasis, survival, invasion, angiogenesis, chemo-resistance and radio-resistance.  These molecules are activated by a number of environmental and lifestyle-related factors, which together are thought to drive as much as 90% of all cancers.

Some people are genetically predisposed to certain conditions.  However, one must take into account that their environmental surroundings, diet, and lifestyle typically mimic their predecessors.  While this may heighten the chances of inheriting a similar fate, it does not dictate its inevitability. You have quite a bit to do with what happens inside your body, and we plan on providing you with some important tools for better health. 

ABOUT GOUT:

Gout (gouty arthritis, metabolic arthritis) is a metabolic disease where uric acid deposits build in the tissue and joints causing inflammatory reaction.

Uric acid is a very potent and necessary antioxidant vital to our DNA and RNA. Uric acid is an end product of purine metabolism. Purines are organic compounds found in all body tissue and cells and also found in the foods we eat. Overproduction and/or under-excretion of uric acid through the kidneys initiates excess storage in the joints, tissue, and organs, resulting in an inflammatory response. This reaction evokes the hot, shiny, often excruciating joint pain known as a 'gout attack'.  It is one of the most harrowing forms of arthritis and poses an excessively high risk for joint degeneration and deformity.

By slowing cellular and tissue degeneration, increasing kidney filtration and liver function, enhancing the digestive and immune functions, and creating a better diet and water balance, we can in turn shut down the factors leading to this storage and attacks. It is not as complicated as it may sound and will actually change the way you view and value your health as a whole. Gout is a warning sign that your body and health may be in jeopardy. A chance to change the risks involved and stop the pain is not only possible, it is guaranteed. Our product and guidance will do just that!

GOUT STAGES:

• Asymptomatic (Hyperuricemia)
• Acute
• Intercritical
• Chronic

In the Asymptomatic Stage you will likely find high uric acid levels in the blood without the presence of any symptoms. This does not dictate the inevitability of a gout attack, but can certainly increase the risk. Hyperuricemia can result from excessive purine metabolism producing uric acid, under-excretion of uric acid by the kidneys, and possible high levels of fructose in the diet. Natural measures to correct would be advised.

The Acute Stage is the presence of the first attack which typically befalls one joint. Any joint is susceptible to an attack, although many find the big toe to be the first. A flare up can cause excruciating pain to an area becoming red, hot, shiny, swollen, and very tender to the touch. Sometimes a fever is present as well. A mild attack can last a few days and a severe one up to a few weeks.

Intercritical is the time in between attacks. This can occur for several months up to several years, although most find the second attack to take place somewhere between six months and two years from the initial flare up.

The Chronic Stage of gout can burden one with frequent severe attacks and usually involving more than one joint at a time. Tophi can form in the joints, bones, cartilage, and other places in the body. Tophi growths are large nodules of uric acid deposits and are more likely at this stage. The chronic stage of gout imposes much higher risks of kidney stones and damage, hypertension, and joint deformity.

The progression through these stages must be stopped and best in a natural form that the body can recognize and respond to appropriately.

CONTRIBUTING FACTORS:

Low kidney clearance can stem from water imbalances, an overly acidic body pH, and the extra burden of excessive filtering requirements resulting from prescription and over the counter medication use, etc. The kidneys are responsible for the filtering of uric acid, as well as impurities and other waste products. This process faces a challenge in the presence of exorbitant uric acid production and/or under-secretion of uric acid related to decreased kidney function. In any instance, the trapped uric acid amounts settle in the joints, tissue, fat, kidneys, and liver where storage and crystallizing begin.

The blood is responsible for carrying the uric acid to the kidneys and then to the urine and bowels in order to be disposed. Lack of blood flow allows for any crystallized uric acid to remain trapped and inhibits the soluble amount from being expelled of properly in order to avoid the storage and crystal formation.

The liver is the take all for any and all foreign invaders in the body. As the largest gland it is responsible for food metabolism, bile secretion, removal of waste from the blood, toxin filtering, blood volume control, and the synthesizing of essential vitamins and nutrients. When the liver, and kidneys for that matter, have so many other toxic encounters to deal with daily, then something as natural and necessary like uric acid can become one of the last matters to deal with. Any reduced function of both can greatly attribute to uric acid imbalance and excretion adding a higher possibility of gouty arthritis formation.

Now we begin to see how some of the other factors listed above only add to the demise of uric acid balance. Additionally, alcohol consumption directly affects and consumes the attention of the liver and kidneys, impeding even more uric acid excretion. Alcohol also dehydrates the blood and rich in purines, further producing excessive uric acid.

Obesity can affect the heart, blood flow, friendly bacteria levels and nutrient assimilation appointing excess strain on these organs and their essential functions. As a result, extra uric acid production is common. Moreover, the typical diet involved in obesity cases is rarely conducive to healthy uric acid balance.

Even without the presence of obesity, the average diet is overly acidic and purine rich. We understand that uric acid is the waste product from the breakdown of purines, and purines are the metabolic result of protein. Therefore, we can conclude -- High Purine = Excessive acid production + Reduced Excretion = Uric Acid Storage. pH balance, particularly within each meal, is essential to normal function and control of all areas involved. A 70/30 alkaline to an acidic food ratio is the necessary pH balance to strive for. This pertains particularly to each meal, and is essential to normal function and control of all organs involved. Our typical modern diet is exactly the opposite, and in many cases even worse off.

The Atkins Diet is a high protein and highly acidic approach to weight loss. This diet holds little to no alkaline balance, a balance essential to maintaining healthy body environment. Acidic body conditions allow for disease growth. Consequently, diets like these can drastically increase your chances, and even directly contribute to, Gout and other degenerative disease development. Crash diets deplete the body of vital nutrients, creating an acidic body environment, and release stored purines from the body fat in the process. As you know, excess purine release results in even further uric acid production.

Stress is a lurid offender to the body. Stress raises the body's acidity and kills off strains of good bacteria required to protect you. Stress causes the body to release inflammatory markers into the bloodstream. Stress can be a key factor in disease growth as it flourishes in these types of environments. Do not overlook the importance for researching natural and successful ways of dealing with stress! EFT Tapping, deep breathing, massage, acupuncture, exercise, and more are proven ways to reduce the danger of anxiety and stress in your life.

Prescription and Over the Counter Medications are notorious for their acidic nature and multitude of side effects associated with their use. Some are worse than others. However, they can all contribute to nutrient and good bacteria depletion and profoundly compromise the very organs and functions you need operating at their best. High blood pressure and cholesterol drugs are among the top nutrient depleting drugs on the market. It remains important to at least supplement in some vitamins and friendly bacteria during their use. Diuretics add even more concerns regarding gout. Their reduction of water in the blood can allow room for much higher uric acid concentrations. Improper water intake adds more fuel to the fire. In this instance, not only do you find too much water being pushed from the body, but not nearly enough being consumed in order to remain properly hydrated. Once again, we find any hopes of proper uric acid excretion minimal at best. Awareness of your daily water is essential to avoid some of these complications when possible. Secondary Gout, when gout occurs due to another condition such as renal disease, is also very common with conditions such as elevated blood pressure and diabetes. Other collective contributors can stem from synthetic diuretic usage (as detailed above), low-dose aspirin use (which limits the excretion of uric acid), and high-dose niacin use (commonly prescribed for high cholesterol). Oddly enough, adult dose aspirin does not seem to have the same negative effect in altering the excretion of uric acid as does the commonly prescribed low dose amount of 81mg.

Antibiotic use can contribute to the development of high uric acid concentration. Antibiotics are meant to kill off all the bad bacteria in the body. Unfortunately, they take all the good with it as well. Over 70% of your immune system resides in your digestive system. Low friendly bacteria levels place a lot of unnecessary strain on your system’s ability to fight infection and avoid disease growth. In fact, disease growth flourishes in a toxic environment, which is precisely the state of affairs you face without optimal healthy bacteria levels present in the intestines. Stress, obesity, medications, overly acidic diets, processed foods, sugar, alcohol, and chlorinated water continue to add to the demise of our good bacteria.

Chlorine: We inhale chlorine in the gaseous form, chloroform, through the steam of a shower, bath, and in a hot tub. Chlorine also seeps into our pores in these ways, as well as through swimming pools. Chlorine is found in our city tap water, and when ingested or bathed in, has a direct effect on our health. Chlorine not only destroys vital strains of friendly bacteria in our body but is a health risk in general for many other reasons.  Why does chlorine in water cause these Gout Symptoms? It destroys protective acidophilus, which nourishes and cooperates with the immunity-strengthening "friendly" organisms lining the colon. And, as mentioned earlier, chlorine combines with organic impurities in the water to make trihalomethanes (THMs), or chloramines. The more organic matter, the more THMs; and like excess oxysterols they are carcinogens. 30% of all uric acid is expelled through the bowels with the help of "friendly" organisms (Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus acidophilus)

Recent research has found a new hazard in chlorinated water: a byproduct called MX. A research team from the National Public Health Institute in Finland discovered that, by causing genetic mutations, MX initiates cancer in laboratory animals. And DCA (dichloro acedic acid) in chlorinated water alters cholesterol metabolism, changing HDL ("good") to LDL ("bad") cholesterol--and causes liver cancer in laboratory animals. Liver health, cholesterol, blood pressure, insulin resistance, gout, and a proper working digestive system, are all interrelated.

Long-term risks of consuming chlorinated water include excessive free radical formation, which accelerates aging, increases vulnerability to genetic mutation and cancer development, causes difficulty metabolizing cholesterol, and promotes hardening of arteries.

Taking a warm shower or lounging in a hot tub filled with chlorinated water, one inhales chloroform. And worse, warm water opens the pores, causing the skin to act like a sponge, and so one will absorb and inhale more chlorine in a 10-minute shower than by drinking eight glasses of the same water. This irritates the eyes, the sinuses, throat, skin and lungs, makes the hair and scalp dry, worsening dandruff. It can weaken immunity.

Water consumption and the source for your drinking water are both very important. Unfortunately a good portion of our society is dehydrated and isn't even aware of it, which poses major health risks. If the kidneys sense the body is becoming too dry, they begin to retain the fluid, rather than excreting it as urine. Unfortunately, this also forces the body to hold onto excess uric acid and other toxins ordinarily excreted by the kidneys, and the damage begins. This is a vicious cycle of dehydration. Proper water intake is an essential key to blood hydration and kidney filtration in order to properly expel uric acid from the body. One should consume a pure source of water, ideal for their body weight and activity level, steadily throughout the day. By the time you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated.

Illness, injury, and surgery can all factor into pushing you over that edge and into your first attack. More than likely, you were already in the developing stages and experiencing overproduction and storage of uric acid. Eventually, it became too much for the body to handle the additional challenges without repercussions. Further, these conditions typically entail extra stress on the body, pain medication use, changes in weight, and antibiotic use only adding to your development risks.

TRADITIONAL MEDICATIONS:

Allopurinol: This drug actually blocks the enzyme, xanthine oxidase, necessary for the conversion of purines into uric acid. As of result, this lowers the blood serum levels and used to prevent chronic gout, stones, and hyperuricaemia. It is not actually a treatment for an acute attack and can even exacerbate an attack if used during its course. This treatment sounds good in theory, but one must consider that un-naturally stopping a very natural and necessary production such as uric acid has to take its toll on the body somehow. After all, uric acid is a potent antioxidant vital to the body, therefore stopping its production seems counterproductive to its important role as the protector of your DNA. As a result, it is necessary to monitor the liver, kidneys, and blood during its use. Possible side effects include: peripheral neuritis, alopecia, swelling, pain in urination, hypertension, taste disturbances, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, drowsiness, and vertigo. Possible serious side effects include: Anemia or other blood or bone marrow disorders that may produce fatigue, bleeding, or bruising; yellowish tinge to eyes or skin (signs of hepatitis or liver damage); severe skin reactions (rashes, skin ulcers, hives, intense itching); chest tightness; weakness.

Colchicine: This drug is used as an alternative to NSAIDS treating the inflammation caused by an attack. It can actually suspend cell division which again is yet another necessary and naturally occurring action in the body being halted by a drug and should be avoided by children and pregnant women due to the risks involved. This drug can cause serious side effects and toxicity and even death in high doses. 80% of people who take Colchicine in doses that are high enough to be effective develop stomach problems such as cramping, nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting. Serious side effects of colchicine include bone marrow problems, muscle inflammation, severe anemia, and extremely low white blood counts that can increase the risk of infection developing. Colchicine is usually avoided or the dose adjusted in people who have reduced kidney function.

NSAIDS: Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs like Indomethacin are used to reduce the inflammation, pain, and fever caused by a gouty infection. The body’s natural mechanism to fight infection is directly associated with these types of reactions and is the way you know your body is doing what it is supposed to do. Suppressing these natural and necessary body responses can certainly take a toll on the body in the long run. Side effects include nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, rash, dizziness, headache, and drowsiness. They may also cause fluid retention leading to edema. The most serious side effects are kidney failure, liver failure, ulcers and prolonged bleeding after an injury or surgery. NSAID's may have significant toxicity, but if used for the SHORT TERM they can be generally well tolerated.

Prednisone: This drug alters the way the immune system works and actually takes over the natural function of the adrenal gland to stop the natural production of steroids in the body. In turn it has helped in reducing the red, painful inflammation associated with a gout attack but at what cost to your health in general. Prednisone suppresses the immune system and can result in a host of unwanted side effects including: headache, dizziness, extreme mood swings, bulging eyes, acne, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, weight alterations, thin fragile skin, weak muscles, heartburn, decreased sex drive, sweating, slow healing of cuts and bruises, vision problems, eye pain, sore throat, seizures, depression, confusion, loss of contact with reality, muscle twitching, shaking, numbness, swelling, upset stomach, vomiting, hacking cough, irregular heartbeat, rash, hives, itching, shortness of breath, swelling or pain in the stomach, shortness of breath. Enough said!

We have all found ourselves time and time again at the mercy of such prescription medications due to the necessity for immediate symptom relief. In theory, the above medications answer that need. However, continuing to not address the real issue and root cause will inevitably wind up backfiring on you, your body, and your health. Gout is a strong warning sign of body malfunction, acidity, and toxicity and one not to be overlooked or covered up. There are alternatives and even lifestyle adjustments that can certainly go a long way towards recovery and prevention. There is a safe, effective and natural approach to your relief quest and ways to nurse your body back to health.  Some use both traditional medications and all natural formulas together.  However, many wish to eliminate the prescription drugs and their side effects, all together.  Many enjoy working with their physicians to wean from these medications slowly and allow the body to adjust naturally.  They simply reduce the amount they take slowly and/or spread the hours apart in which the medication is consumed, while beginning the all natural herbal route simultaneously.

RELATION TO DIET AND LIFESTYLE:

This may be one of the most complex areas to understand, and we are learning new things all the time. For far too long we have remained focused on certain food triggers and purines counts. Food selection is very important. However, in terms of actual purines in the food, they truly only contribute to around 30% of the uric acid production. The larger and often overlooked picture would be the lack of pH balance to each meal, unhealthy food choices, high-heat cooking methods, and an overabundance of processed and now genetically modified selections in the typical diet. Additionally, you will continue to find conflicting information on what is considered to be a “healthy diet," rendering you helpless in making concrete decisions on your approach for change.  Here is what we do know:

• Eating too much causes inflammation-
We know that overeating promotes the inflammatory response and suppresses the immune system. Tests performed by the National Institute on Aging revealed that when animals were fed 50 percent fewer calories per day, their immune response improved, the amount of inflammatory cytokines in circulation was reduced, thymus size was maintained and inflammation-fighting T-cell function improved. This study looked at higher and lower calorie consumption; it did not distinguish among the types of calories consumed. Heavy, red-meat-based diets or lots of sugar-laden foods would definitely have a negative impact on immune function and promote inflammation, whereas calories in the form of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds would improve immunity. No matter what the food choices, moderation is the key in terms of both total daily quantity and amounts consumed at one time. Generally, five or six small meals (of the right foods) throughout the day are considered to be healthier than consuming fewer large ones. ^[6]

• Fat cells increase inflammation-
It is known that even an extra 20 pounds can create an abundance of inflammation in the human body and lower overall immunity. Weight management is an important aspect of maintaining a balanced immune system and controlling inflammation. With over 50 percent of North Americans overweight, and an additional 15 percent or more classed as obese, public health care planners expect to see a tremendous increase in inflammatory diseases. Fat cells act like immune cells and secrete inflammatory factors (histamines and cytokines), especially during weight gain. The more fat cells you have, the more potential there is for inflammation.  Weight gain also puts tremendous pressure on joints. For every ten pounds of weight gained, 40 pounds or more of additional pressure is put on hips and knees, compressing cartilage and collagen, grinding down bones, promoting damage and inflammatory response. ^[6]  

• With that said……Don’t fear the fats and up the Omega 3s-
For years, dieting gurus recommended cutting out fat from the diet. The upshot? People got bigger and also got sicker. The reasoning? Turns out saturated fats and fatty acids – and particularly Omega-3 essential fatty acids – contain powerful anti-inflammatory properties. ^[3] Include low mercury fish selections (about 7-10oz/week) and/or raw nuts and seeds, such as walnuts, ground flaxseed, grapeseed and pumpkin and sesame seeds.  Include healthy saturated fats from real butter, coconut oil, tropical palm oil, olive oil (not cooked), ghee, avocados, eggs, and meat in moderation.  Avoid processed fats/trans-fats and hydrogenated/vegetable oils.  Fish oils tend to vary greatly in quality assurance.  When considering a supplement in addition to the diet, we recommend Pure Antarctic Neptune Krill Oil. 

• Spice up your life-
Herbs and spices aren’t only good for adding a little flavor to your food. Many of them also contain high levels of antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can reduce inflammation and dull pain. One spice frequently touted for its anti-inflammatory properties is capsaicin, which is a naturally occurring ingredient in chili peppers, as well as rosemary, which has rosmarinic acid and ginger which has vanillin and zingerone. Other good sources include basil, bay leaves, cumin, coriander, dill, fennel, garlic, hyssop, oregano, pepper, sage, and thyme as well as goji, graviola, green tea extract, spirulina and willowbark, which contain salicylic acid, one of the active ingredients in aspirin. ^[3]

• Manage healthy glucose levels. Avoid substitute sugars-
One should aim to stay under 25mg of total fructose per day.  This can add up quickly with processed foods!  Bread, pastry, pasta = sugar. In addition to helping pack on the pounds, simple carbohydrates also rev up inflammation by causing surges in blood sugar that promote a chemical reaction in cells called glycosylation, or the browning effect. To avoid such surges, stick to complex carbohydrates with a low glycemic index such as apples, asparagus, beans, broccoli, blackberries, blueberries, cabbage, cantaloupe, citrus fruits, green beans, leafy greens, pears, raspberries, spinach and strawberries. ^[3]  READ your food labels and steer clear of processed/boxed foods as much as possible.  Often time, high-fructose corn syrup is the top ingredient.  AVOID!!  Avoid substitute sugars such as aspartame, sucrolose/splenda, saccharin, Acesulfame-K.  Each is full of undesirable side effects and cancer-causing agents.  Should you feel the need to sweeten any of your fresh foods, consider a natural sweetener such as Stevia.  See chart:

• Get some sleep!!
Having a few restless nights can exacerbate any underlying symptoms of inflammation. To ensure adequate sleep, experts recommend snoozing for between six and 12 hours nightly, with sleep requirements varying based on age, activity level, overall health and other factors. ^[3]  Are you plagued with insomnia? Be sure to talk to your physician about non-drug options, as well as trying to figure out the cause. Often times, insomnia can be treated with some lifestyle changes, cognitive-behavior therapy, and exercise. Pills are not the only way to beat insomnia, and should be avoided at all costs. Get to the underlying cause, don't just treat the symptom!

• Food allergies?
Another food source you need to steer clear of? For some people, this might mean wheat, eggs, gluten, dairy, soy, or some forms of nuts. To determine whether you have sensitivity to a particular food, try eliminating it for at least two weeks and see if symptoms such as lethargy, headaches or bloating subside.  REDUCE GRAIN INTAKE!  Any reduction in grain products has benefits beyond the anti-inflammatory properties. ^[3]

• Vitamin Needs-
While adding a multivitamin can help stave off inflammation, the key here is to find a high-quality supplement with the types of nutrients you need. ^[3]  Certain vitamins, in particular, may help control inflammatory processes in the body and would include Folic Acid, B5 Pantothenic Acid, B6, and Vitamins A, E, and C. However, we do not recommend you take Vitamin C in high pill form dosages, particularly if you suffer with joint pain. Vitamin C, in pill form, has been known to fire up the joints by over storing iron in the body. Increased C intake should come mainly from indulging in the foods which contain higher levels (chili peppers, bell peppers, parsley, thyme, guava, dark leafy greens, kiwi, oranges, clementine, broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, papayas, strawberries).^[4]    Niacin, in certain forms, can also have the same negative effect, firing up the joints. Niacin, in the form of niacinamide, appears to have significant anti-inflammatory properties. This form of vitamin B3 has been shown to reduce inflammation in the joints of people who suffer from osteoarthritis, but should remain limited to 25mg or below in pill form.^[5]    

• Probiotic power-
They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, but turns out that’s also the same route to reduced inflammation! In the gut, beneficial bacteria is a naturally occurring phenomenon, but antibiotic use, stress, and poor diet can all upset this delicate balance, resulting in an infiltration of undesirable bacteria that can lead to inflammation. ^[3] Probiotics have been shown in studies to stimulate the immune system, help to digest dairy products by manufacturing the enzyme lactase, have powerful anti-carcinogenic qualities helpful against certain cancers and tumor growths, help to lower the bad cholesterol, aids to synthesize the B vitamins, promote regularity and overall digestive tract functions, help to recycle estrogen for women, counteract the negative effects of antibiotic use, and create their own natural antibiotics used by the body to fight illness, infection, yeast, and any other disease causing pathogens that threaten their territory. ^[7]

• Daily Water Needs-

Divide your weight in half.  This is how many ounces of water you need each day, consumed at a slow but steady pace from rise to fall.  If you weigh 180lbs, divide by 2 = 90oz of water daily. Drinking water should come from a pure source, preferably filtered for purity and filters replaced according to manufactured suggestions. Optimal drinking water pH is 7.0

ADDITIONAL IMPORTANT NOTES AND TIPS-

• A recent study revealed the citrate found in citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruit), which is accompanied by a potassium ion, can aid to flush the oxalates from the kidneys that had been accumulating overnight. Those that suffer with inflammatory conditions tend to be predisposed to an increased risk of stone development. For this reason, we recommend you consume a small-sized orange or grapefruit with your first morning pill. Alternatively, one could squeeze fresh lemon/lime into pure water and consume upon rising.

• Eat to live, don’t live to eat.

• Fresh Vegetables and some fruits (preferably organic) should be a large, the largest part, of your daily diet.

• Trying to avoid high temperature cooking methods as much as possible (microwave, grilling, broiling, frying-anything cooked in any oil other than coconut or butter/ghee) and choosing more slow indirect heat (crock pot, rotisserie, steaming, low heat baking, roasting, boiling/simmering) can make a difference in the acidity level of your food. High direct heat can chemically alter our food, making it more acidic, and can strip away most of the nutrients.

• Limit or eliminate sugar, sugar substitutes, high-fructose corn syrup (found in just about all processed foods- beware!!), white flour, synthetic oils (canola oil is NOT healthy), caffeine, table salt, non-perishable, genetically modified (PLEASE educate yourself on gm foods and how to avoid them), and processed foods in general.  Fresh is always best. 

• High-Fructose Corn Syrup's Effect on Uric Acid- When your body metabolizes fructose, much of the fructose travels directly to your liver via special transporter. However, a sizable remnant also goes to your kidneys. There, according to an article published in the October 2007 issue of "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," fructose can induce an increase in uric acid. Researchers state that it's this mechanism that links fructose-laden foods and beverages to the epidemics Americans are experiencing in hypertension, obesity, metabolic syndrome, kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. They note that other sugars don't produce this effect on uric acid levels. Uric acid stimulates the release of inflammatory substances, causes oxidative stress in fat cells and stunts the proliferation of cells that line your heart and blood vessels. ^[11]

• Should you need a sweetener, use all natural Stevia only.  A number of studies show that Stevia can be beneficial in the treatment of many health conditions. Stevia is believed to have anti-bacterial, anti-septic, anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, anti-glycemic, and anti-hypertensive properties which may help with hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes (safe sweetener for diabetics), chronic fatigue, indigestion, upset stomach, heartburn, weight loss, cold and flu, gingivitis, tooth decay, cavities, dandruff and hair loss, brittle bones or osteoporosis, streptococcus, candidiasis, bacterial infections and skin conditions such as cuts, wounds, rashes, itchiness, blemishes, acne, seborrhoeic dermatitis, dermatitis, eczema, and wrinkles. It may also improve energy levels, strengthen immune system, stimulate mental activity, and may also help in withdrawal from tobacco and alcohol addiction.

• Coconut oil is about the only oil that can stand high heat temperature cooking methods, without turning rancid.  The quality of your coconut oil is essential to this health tip.  It needs to be certified organic by USDA standards with:

Ø       No chemicals are added (some lower quality brands use hexane to extract the oil)

Ø       No bleaching

Ø       No refining

Ø       No deodorization

Ø       No hydrogenation

Ø       Made from traditional coconut trees only. No hybrid or genetically modified crops are used to make this oil.

Ø       Made from fresh coconuts, not dried 'copra' that's commonly used in lower quality oils.

Ø       No heat is used during processing - this reduces the risk of heat damage to the healthy fatty acids found in the oil.

• Salt is very important to the body but the type of salt is equally as important. The salt found in processed foods is extremely high in sodium content, more than the suggested daily amounts and is not the healthy version of salt. A good quality Himalayan Rock Crystal salt is great and advantageous to your health when added to proper balanced diet.  By avoiding unhealthy salt in processed foods, you can enjoy liberally adding a healthy salt to your fresh whole food selections, instead.

• Sour dairy and fermented foods are important to include daily as a good source of friendly bacteria to the body.  Organic, full-fat cottage cheese, kefir, sour cream, and plain yogurt can be incorporated.  The commercially fruited yogurts are packed with sugar, so choosing plain and adding fresh fruit, honey or stevia for sweetening, is recommended.  HOME fermented foods (not shelf stable pasteurized versions) such as sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, olives, and pickles can be very easy to make and great for your health.

• Whenever possible, choose organic and organically grown foods as well as free range, grass-fed only egg/meat selections.  You can attribute most of our meat fears and health problems to the source of the food, not the food selection itself.

• The ph balance of your meals and in your body can say a lot about your health. An excessively acidic, and even an overly alkaline diet approach, can raise many concerns. When the body is too acidic, it has to work extra hard to expel the residue or to store it and uses vital minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium as a buffer to lower the body acidity. This is very stressful on the organs and depletes essential nutrients in the body. When the body is too alkaline then it has to deal with low electrolytes, which can weaken the nerves and muscles also affecting the body’s functions. The body is constantly working overtime to achieve balance, as this balance is essential to all bodily functions and cell health. One should strive for an eating balance in each meal of at least 70/30 ratio of alkaline to acidic food intake. Our typical diet is exactly the opposite and many times even worse than that. Ph can be tested, and the healthy functioning range is around 6.5 in the AM and 7.5 by evening. How you cook your food, and what you eat together in a meal, can drastically alter your pH levels.

A LIST OF ACIDIC AND ALKALINE FORMING FOODS (list drawn from various sources)-

The pH scale is from 0 to 14, with numbers below 7 acidic and numbers above 7 alkaline. This chart is intended only as a general guide to alkalizing and acidifying foods.

Extremely Alkaline Forming Foods - pH 8.5 to 9.0 9.0 Lemons 1, Watermelon 2 8.5 Agar Agar 3, Cantaloupe, Cayenne (Capsicum) 4, Dried dates & figs, Kelp, Karengo, Kudzu root, Limes, Mango, Melons, Papaya, Parsley 5, Seedless grapes (sweet), Watercress, Seaweeds, Asparagus 6, Endive, Kiwifruit, Fresh Unsweetened Fruit juices 7, Grapes (sweet), Passion fruit, Pears (sweet), Pineapple, Raisins, Umeboshi plum, Fresh Vegetable juices 8

Moderate Alkaline - pH 7.5 to 8.0 8.0 Apples (sweet), Apricots, Alfalfa sprouts 9, Arrowroot, flour 10, Avocados, Bananas (ripe), Berries, Carrots, Celery, Currants, Dates & figs (fresh), Garlic 11, Gooseberry, Grapes (less sweet), Grapefruit, Guavas, Herbs (leafy green), Lettuce (leafy green), Nectarine, Peaches (sweet), Pears (less sweet), Peas (fresh sweet), Persimmon, Pumpkin (sweet), Sea salt (vegetable) 12, Spinach 7.5 Apples (sour), Bamboo shoots, Beans (fresh green), Beets, Bell Pepper, Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Carob13, Daikon, Ginger (fresh), Grapes (sour), Kale, Kohlrabi, Lettuce (pale green), Oranges, Parsnip, Peaches (less sweet), Peas (less sweet), Potatoes & skin, Pumpkin (less sweet), Raspberry, Sapote, Strawberry, Squash 14, Sweet corn (fresh), Tamari 15, Turnip, Vinegar (apple cider) 16

Slightly Alkaline to Neutral pH 7.0 7.0 Almonds 17, Artichokes (Jerusalem), Barley-Malt (sweetener-Bronner), Brown Rice Syrup, Brussel Sprouts, Cherries, Coconut (fresh), Cucumbers, Egg plant, Honey (raw), Leeks, Miso, Mushrooms, Okra, Olives ripe 18, Onions, Pickles 19, (home made), Radish, Sea salt 20, Spices 21, Taro, Tomatoes (sweet), Vinegar (sweet brown rice), Water Chestnut Amaranth, Artichoke (globe), Chestnuts (dry roasted), Egg yolks (soft cooked), Essene bread 22, Goat's milk and whey (raw) 23, Horseradish, Mayonnaise (home made), Millet, Olive oil (not cooked and extra virgin), Quinoa, Rhubarb, Sesame seeds (whole) 24, Sprouted grains 25, Tempeh (ONLY fermented soy products), Tomatoes (less sweet)

Alkalizing Spices & Seasonings Chili Pepper – Cinnamon – Curry - Ginger - Herbs (all) – Miso – Mustard – Himalayan Rock Crystal Salt - Tamari

Alkalizing Other Alkaline Antioxidant Water - Bee Pollen - Fresh Fruit Juice – Green/Veggie Juices - Lecithin Granules - Mineral Water Molasses, blackstrap - Probiotic Cultures - Soured Dairy Products

Alkalizing Minerals Calcium: pH 12 - Cesium: pH 14 - Magnesium: pH 9 - Potassium: pH 14 - Sodium: pH 14

Alkaline producing activities/emotions: Meditation, Prayer, Peace, Happiness, Kindness, Love Neutral pH 7.0 - Healthy Body Saliva pH Range is between 6.4 to 6.8 (on your pH test strips) Butter (fresh unsalted), Cream (fresh & raw), Margarine 26, Milk (raw cow's) 27, Whey (cow's), Yogurt (plain)

Slightly Acid to Neutral pH 7.0 7.0 Barley malt syrup, Barley, Bran, Cashews, Cereals (unrefined with honey-fruit-maple syrup), Cornmeal, Cranberries 30, Fructose, Honey (pasteurized), Lentils, Macadamias, Maple syrup (unprocessed), Milk and most dairy products, Molasses (unsulphured organic 31, Nutmeg, Mustard, Pistachios, Popcorn & butter (plain), Rice or wheat crackers (unrefined), Rye (grain), Rye bread (organic sprouted), Seeds(pumpkin & sunflower), Walnuts, Blueberries, Brazil nuts, Butter (salted), Cheeses (mild & crumbly) 28, Crackers (unrefined rye), Dried beans (mung, adzuki, pinto, kidney, garbanzo) 29, Dry coconut, Egg whites, Goats milk, Olives (pickled), Pecans, Plums 30, Prunes 30, Spelt

Moderate Acid - pH 6.0 to 6.5 6.0 Cigarette tobacco (roll your own), Cream of Wheat (unrefined), Fish, Fruit juices with sugar, Maple syrup (processed), Molasses (sulphured), Pickles (commercial), Breads (refined) of corn, oats, rice & rye, Cereals (refined), Shellfish, Wheat germ, Whole Wheat foods 32, Wine 33, Yogurt (sweetened) 6.5 Bananas (green), Buckwheat, Cheeses (sharp), Corn & rice breads, Egg whole (cooked hard), Ketchup, Mayonnaise, Oats, Pasta (whole grain), Peanuts, Potatoes (with no skins), Popcorn (air-popped not microwave- with salt & butter), Rice (basmati), Rice (brown), Soy sauce (commercial), Tapioca, Wheat bread (sprouted organic)

Extremely Acid Forming Foods - pH 5.0 to 5.5 5.0 Artificial sweeteners 5.5 Beef, Carbonated soft drinks & fizzy drinks 38, Cigarettes (tailor made), Drugs, Flour (white wheat) 39, Goat, Lamb, Pastries & cakes from white flour, Pork, Sugar (white) 40, Beer 34, Brown sugar 35, Chicken, Deer, Chocolate, Coffee 36, Custard with white sugar, Jams, Jellies, Liquor 37, Pasta (white), Rabbit, Semolina, Table salt refined & iodized, Tea black, Turkey, Wheat bread, White rice, White vinegar (processed).

Acid producing activities/emotions: Overwork, Anger, Fear, Jealousy & Stress

There are several versions of the Acidic and Alkaline Food chart to be found in different books and on the Internet. The following foods are sometimes attributed to the Acidic side of the chart and sometimes to the alkaline side. Remember, you don't need to adhere strictly to the alkaline side of the chart.  Just be sure a good percentage of the foods you eat come from that side.

Asparagus - Brazil Nuts - Brussel Sprouts – Buckwheat – Chicken – Corn - Cottage Cheese – Eggs - Flax Seeds Green Tea - Herbal Tea – Honey – Kombucha - Lima Beans - Maple Syrup – Milk – Nuts - Organic Milk (unpasteurized) - Potatoes, white - Pumpkin Seeds – Sauerkraut - Soy Products - Sprouted Seeds - Squashes - Sunflower Seeds - Yogurt

MATCH WITH THE NUMBERS NEXT TO THE FOODS FOR ADDED INFORMATION-

1. Excellent for EMERGENCY SUPPORT for colds, coughs, sore throats, heartburn, & gastro upsets.
2. Good for a yearly fast. For several days eat whole melon, chew pips well & eat also. Super alkalizing food.
3. Substitute for gelatin, more nourishing.
4. Stimulating, non-irritating body healer. Good for endocrine system.
5. Purifies kidneys.
6. Powerful acid reducer detoxing to produce acid urine temporarily, causing alkalinity for the long term.
7. Natural sugars give alkalinity. Added sugar causes juice to become acid-forming.
8. Depends on vegetable content and sweetness.
9. Enzyme rich, superior digestibility.
10. High calcium content. Corn flour substitute.
11. Elevates acid food 5.0 in alkaline direction.
12. Vegetable content raises alkalinity.
13. Substitute for coca; mineral rich.
14. Winter squash rates 7.5. Butternut & sweeter squash rates 8.0.
15. Genuine fermented for 1½ years otherwise 6.0.
16. Raw unpasteurized is a digestive aid to increase HCL in the stomach. 1 tablespoon, plus honey & water before meals.
17. Soak 12 hours, peel skin to eat.
18. Sundried, tree ripened, otherwise 6.0.
19. Using sea-salt and apple cider vinegar.
20. Contains sea minerals. Dried at low temperatures.
21. Range from 7.0 to 8.0.
22. Sprouted grains are more alkaline. Grains chewed well become more alkaline.
23. High sodium to aid digestion.
24. High levels of utilizable calcium. Grind before eating.
25. Alkalinity and digestibility higher.
26. Heating causes fats to harden and become indigestible.
27. High mucous production.
28. Mucous forming and hard to digest.
29. When sprouted dry beans rate 7.0.
30. Contain acid-forming benzoic and quinic acids.
31. Full of iron.
32. Unrefined wheat is more alkaline.
33. High quality red wine, no more than 4 oz. daily to build blood.
34. Good quality, well brewed - up to 5.5. Fast brewed beers drop to 5.0.
35. Most are white sugars with golden syrup added.
36. Organic, fresh ground-up to 5.5.
37. Cheaper brands drop to 5.0, as does over-indulgence.
38. Leaches minerals.
39. Bleached - has no goodness.
40. Poison! Avoid it.

GC® GOUT CARE CLEANSING AND HEALING:

There are a few ways to approach the cleansing and healing of uric acid overload.  For some, a 'shock' to the system can get things moving rather quickly and force the healing to take place at a fast pace.  For others, this 'shock' can prove to be too much and cause the situation to become worse, before getting better.  For this reason, we have outlined some options dependent on your body's ability to heal.

QUICK START METHOD: ONLY if you are under an attack AND:

• You just began experiencing full blown attacks within the last couple of years and they are not very frequent
• If you are not taking other medications for gout or other conditions such as high blood pressure and cholesterol
• If you have not  been on any antibiotics for the last 6+ months
• If you do not  have any known kidney and liver issues
• If you are 100% dedicated to following our water and food guidelines for this method

GC® GOUT CARE QUICK START INSTRUCTIONS:

• Take two pills with 1.5 liters of pure filtered water.
• Drink an additional 1.5 liters of pure filtered water within the next two hours and take one more pill at the end of those two hours.
• Repeat step two, two more times with 1.5 liters and one pill every two hours for a total of five and 6 liters of water.

We do understand that a single trip to the bathroom while under an attack can be almost impossible let alone several with a lot of water. So if necessary, bring a bathroom to you - the results will be worth the stretch.

The attack can and most likely will worsen if you do not consume the proper intake of water and follow the healing diet, especially with the extra pills in the "Quick Start,” because if you do not provide the now soluble uric acid with an exit from the body, it will find a new place to settle within your body.

During this time, it is essential to eat only from the alkalic to neutral food selections listed above.  Make sure that you are replacing your body with salt and potassium during all this flushing.  Continue with a fresh, alkaline diet (with plenty of variety and calories) for the next four to five days.  Maintaining your body weight with a good variety of healthy alkaline foods, proteins, and fats, while avoiding all weight loss, is very important during this cleansing stage.  Purines are stored in fat, and weight loss will increase uric acid production and retention. Anything less than 1500/2000 calories a day can make your attack worse. 

After the pill instructions for day one detailed above is complete, continue with only 3-4 GC® Gout Care capsules per day.  Spread the dosages out through the day and consume the proper water amount for your body weight (detailed earlier).  After five days, slowly begin to reintroduce some acidic protein sources to balance your mainly alkaline meals.  Acidic balance is essential after the restrictive 5 day period, but should only remain around 30% of each meal/snack.  The remainder of that meal should comprise of 70% of alkalic food selections (mostly veggies and fresh herbs/spices, some fruits, and some fermented/sour dairy selections).

SLOW START METHOD IS BEST FOR:

• Chronic sufferers that experience frequent attacks, have suffered with gout for many years, and/or have tophi growth(s)
• Are NOT under an attack when beginning our product/program
• Take other prescription meds on a daily basis either for gout or for other health conditions
• Have been on any antibiotics in the last six months without a probiotic replacement therapy in place
• If you are battling an illnesses and major stresses in your life
• If you have any known renal failure and/or liver conditions

GC® GOUT CARE - SLOW START INSTRUCTIONS:

• Begin with one pill a day for one week, gradually working to two pills a day (one every 12 hours) for another week. 
• Modify the diet to include fresh, unprocessed food selections, while adhering to the suggested 70/30 pH balanced food ratios.  The recipe ideas below should dramatically assist with delicious ways to eat healthy. 
• Consume the proper water amounts for your body weight and activity level and try to avoid all alcohol for at least 30 days. 
• Introduce a third pill per day during week 3, so long as you have adjusted the diet and water intake and uric acid cleansing has gone smoothly.
• Continue to refer to all suggestions above for reduced acid cooking methods, food and food source choices, etc., as much as possible.

TIPS TO HELP WITH EXISTING PAIN:

• Avoid fast weight loss. Be sure to keep healthy fats and calories in place- avocados, raw nuts, and coconut oil are great sources.
• As the uric acid is being pulled from the affected area it is possible for damaged, “infected” areas are left behind and can keep some swelling and irritation in place.  In order to help break the mucous down from the area of swelling, one can find great use in Mucinex.  Take 600mg (Guaifenesin ingredient only)- two per day until the swelling subsides.
• Take 3-4oz of pure water, ½ tsp of aluminum-free baking soda (Bob Red Mill’s brand), six drops of Stevia natural sweetener, and mix until clear. SLOWLY add in a ½ fresh squeezed lemon (use a tall glass- will fizzle). Consume once fizzling has ceased.  Use this mixture in the morning and in the evening for a few days, followed by just once in the morning for an additional week.
• Soak any inflamed areas in ice water for 4 minutes, followed by hot water for 1 to 2 minutes, back and fourth for at least 30 minutes, twice a day.  Rest the inflamed areas above the heart whenever possible while keeping it warm at all other times, including when in bed with a sock or wrap that is not tight.  If your water is chlorinated, be sure to use an ice pack and heating pad instead. Rub a generous amount of castor oil (soothing and healing) on the inflamed areas before bed and wrap well with ace bandage or a warm sock to keep warm overnight.
• Avoid Acetaminophen (found in Tylenol).  This ingredient is harsh on the liver and can negatively impact your healing and uric acid excretion.  Should a pain reliever be necessary, aim for the use of White Willow Bark and/or Ibuprofen.  Use sparingly if possible, only when absolutely necessary.

Breakfast Ideas and Recipes

(Recipes are scaled for four servings -- unless noted otherwise)

Quinoa with Pine Nuts & Raisins

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed well
• ¼ cup pine nuts
• 2 tablespoons of real organic butter (or ghee)
• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
• ¼ cup raisins
• 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice
• Himalayan rock crystal salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1)       Place quinoa in a saucepan and cook over medium heat until toasted (about 2 minutes).

2)       Add 1 ¾ cups of filtered water and bring to a boil.

3)       Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, until the liquid is absorbed (about 10-15 minutes).

4)       Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for about 2 minutes.

5)       Toast the pine nuts in a skillet over medium-high heat, stirring until golden, for about three minutes.  Transfer to a plate.

6)       Add the butter and garlic to the skillet, cooking over medium heat, for about two minutes. 

7)       Transfer the garlic to a place and reserve the oil.

8)       Fluff the quinoa with a fork. Add the pine nuts, garlic, reserved oil, parsley, raisins and lemon juice.

9)       Season with salt and pepper and toss.

Banana Almond Pancakes

Ingredients:

• 4 bananas
• 2 eggs
• 3-4 Tbs almond butter
• fresh blueberries
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
• 2 tsp. coconut oil

Directions:

1)       Mash bananas in a bowl.

2)       Add the egg and almond butter, and whisk until well blended.

3)       Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat along with a small pat of coconut oil.

4)       Pour small discs of batter onto the hot pan (around 3-4" around). They'll be easier to flip if you keep them from the edges of the pan.

5)       Add blueberries and walnuts as the pancakes cook on one side. Flip when batter loses its "tackiness" around the edges.

6)       Cook other side slowly over medium heat until fully cooked.

7)       Reapply oil to the pan after each round of pancakes.

No-Oat Oatmeal

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup walnuts
• 1/2 cup pecans
• 4 Tbs ground flax seed
• 1–2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 dashes of freshly ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 2 Tbs almond butter
• 2 bananas, mashed
• 6 organic eggs
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (more if desired)
• 4 tsp pumpkin seeds
• 2 handfuls of fresh berries

Directions:

1)       Add walnuts, pecans, flax seed and spices to a food processor and pulse mixture to a course grain (make sure to stop before it is ground into a powder). Set aside.

2)       Whisk together eggs and almond milk until the consistency thickens and becomes a loose custard.

3)       Thoroughly blend the mashed banana and almond butter together and add it to the custard, mixing well.

4)       Stir in the course nut mixture.

5)       In a medium saucepan, warm the mixture on the stove until the “no-oatmeal” reaches the desired consistency; this should only take a few minutes. Stir frequently.

6)       Sprinkle pumpkin seeds and berries on top. Add more almond milk if desired.

Faux Oatmeal (serves 2)

Ingredients:

• 1-1/2 cups unsweetened applesauce
• 4 Tbs raw, organic chunky almond butter
• 2-3 Tbs raw, unsweetened coconut milk
• cinnamon to taste
• dash of fresh grated nutmeg (optional)

Directions:

1)       Combine all ingredients in a small pan over medium heat, stirring often.

Breakfast Smoothie (serves 2)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups frozen organic berries
• 2/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cups almond milk
• 1-2 eggs (from organic pastured chickens)

Directions:

1)       Fill a blender (or magic bullet or whatever) with the frozen berries and quickly pulse with a little hot water to break them up.

2)       Add shredded coconut, eggs, and almond milk.

3)       Continue to blend until smooth, and divide into two glasses.

Green Smoothie (serves 2)

Ingredients:

• 1 apple
• 1 pear
• 1/2 tsp freshly grated ginger
• 2 Tbs flax seeds (ground right before consumption)
• 6 large kale leaves (woody stems removed), or 2 handfuls of spinach
• juice of 1 small lemon
• 1 cup water

Directions:

1)       Quarter apple and pear, remove stems and seeds and put in blender.

2)       Add remaining ingredients to blender and puree. Add more water if needed.

Notes:

Ø       Add fresh fruit, cucumbers, slivered almonds, coconut, fresh herbs or different dark leafy greens for tasty variations on this recipe.

Fruit Salad w/Cinnamon

Ingredients:

• 2 oranges, peeled and diced
• 2 apples, diced
• 1 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional)
• 1 tsp cinnamon

Directions:

1)       Place the fruit into bowls.

2)       Sprinkle with chopped nuts (optional) and/or cinnamon.

Eggs with Avocado and Salsa

Ingredients:

·         4 eggs

·         1/2 avocado, sliced

·         1/2 cup sliced or slivered almonds

·         4 Tbs fresh salsa (see notes below)

Directions:

1)       Heat non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.

2)       Beat eggs in a small bowl, and pour into skillet.

3)       Cook for 1 minute and turn heat to medium-low. Finish cooking (about 2-4 minutes longer).

4)       Top with almonds, avocado and salsa.

Notes:

Ø       See ‘condiment’ section for salsa recipe variations

Carrot Banana Muffins (makes 12 muffins)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups almond flour
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp Himalayan rock crystal salt
• 1 Tbs cinnamon
• 1 cup dates, pitted
• 3 ripe bananas
• 3 eggs
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 1 ½ cups carrots, shredded
• ¾ cup walnuts, finely chopped
• muffin paper liners

Directions:

1)       Preheat oven to 350℉.

2)       In a small bowl, combine almond flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon.

3)       In a food processor, combine dates, bananas, eggs, vinegar and oil.

4)       Transfer mixture to a large bowl and blend until completely combined.

5)       Fold in carrots and walnuts.

6)       Spoon mixture into paper lined muffin tins.

7)       Bake at 350° for 25 minutes.

Sautéed Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 2 tbs coconut oil
• 2 large sweet potato, grated
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Directions:

1)       Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add coconut oil.

2)       Once skillet is heated, sauté grated sweet potatoes until tender (a few minutes or so).

3)       Sprinkle with cinnamon and mix well.

Sautéed Kale with Roasted Sweet Potato and a Poached Egg (serves 2)

Ingredients:

·         2 small sweet potatoesAsk a question about this ingredient

·         2 tablespoons organic ghee or real butter 

·         1/4 teaspoon gingerAsk a question about this ingredient

·         Himalayan rock crystal salt, pepper

·         1 tablespoon real maple syrupAsk a question about this ingredient

·         1 bunch kale

·         2 tablespoon olive oil

·         1 shallot

·         1 small white onion

·         1 cup organic vegetable stockAsk a question about this ingredient

·         1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

·         2 eggs (organic pasture fed)

·         Pecorino cheese, grated or thinly slicedAsk a question about this ingredient

·         1/8 teaspoon freshly ground nutmegAsk a question about this ingredient

Sweet Potato

1)       Preheat oven to 375°F.

2)       Peel and cube potatoes.

3)       In a sheet pan, hand toss potatoes with 1tbs of the olive oil, 1 tablespoon melted butter, maple syrup, ginger, salt and pepper.

4)       Roast for about 45 minutes, or until potatoes are lightly caramelized and cooked through.

Kale (or spinach)

1)       Wash kale and remove stems.

2)       Mince shallot and onion, and set in a wide pan with 1 Tbs of the ghee/butter.

3)       Cook on medium heat until the shallots and onion are transparent.

4)       Add stock.

5)       Roughly chop kale, and add to the pan. Stir to incorporate.

6)       Cook until the liquid evaporates and the kale is cooked, keeping in mind that kale takes a while to become soft.

7)       At the very end, add apple vinegar, and salt and pepper, to taste.

EggsAsk a question about this step

1)       Eggs: In a medium pot, poach eggs in simmering water for about 3 minutes.

2)       When done, remove from water and set aside on parchment paper.

Full Meal Assembly Suggestion

Ø       Use a slotted spoon to deposit kale on plate and top with cheese slices.

Ø       Fork sweet potatoes on top of the kale, and then rest a poached egg on top of the sweet potatoes.

Ø       Finish with a dusting of nutmeg, salt and pepper.Ask a question about this ingredient

Chicken Stir-fry Breakfast (serves 2)

Ingredients:

• 2 organic pastured eggs
• 1 Tbs water
• 1 tsp coconut oil
• 1/4 lb asparagus, washed and cut into 1-2" pieces
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 lb organic poached (see note), diced chicken breast
• 1/2 cup sliced olives (optional, recommended)
• Himalayan rock crystal salt, to taste (optional)
• 1/4 cup slivered almonds
• 1/2 avocado, sliced

Directions:

1)       In a small bowl, beat eggs and water together. Set aside.

2)       Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add coconut oil when pan is hot.

3)       Add asparagus, red pepper, and garlic, and sauté for 5 minutes, or until slightly tender.

4)       Add poached and diced chicken, eggs, and olives (if desired). Cook (stirring constantly) until vegetables are slightly tender, eggs are cooked, and chicken is heated through.

5)       Season with Himalayan salt (if desired), and top with almonds and avocado to serve.

Notes: How to Make Poached Chicken Breasts

The keys to poaching are: the size of the pan, the volume of liquid and the cooking temperature.

Ø       Place chicken breasts in a pot that's just about large enough to fit them in one layer. Two medium chicken breasts fit snugly in my 2 quart round oven.

Ø       Add poaching liquid so that it completely covers the chicken by at least a half inch to an inch.

Ø       After bringing the liquid to a boil, reduce heat to a bare simmer so that only an occasional bubble breaks the surface. At this point, partly cover the pot, cook for about 10 minutes, then turn off the heat, leaving the chicken to finish cooking in the hot water for 10-15 more minutes.

Ø       Remove chicken, then enjoy it warm or refrigerate it for later use. Slice or shred your poached chicken depending on what you want to use it for.

Omelet Muffins (makes 8 muffins)

Ingredients:

• coconut oil or paper muffin liners
• 8 organic pastured eggs
• 1/8 cup water
• 2 cups diced vegetables (1 red bell pepper, 1/4 lb asparagus or broccoli and 1/2 yellow onion recommended, but use whatever is on hand)
• 1/4 tsp Himalayan salt
• 1/8 tsp ground pepper

Directions:

1)       Preheat oven to 350℉.

2)       Grease 8 muffin cups with coconut oil or line with paper baking cups. Fill any remaining muffin cups with 1" of water, so they do not scorch while baking.

3)       Beat the eggs in a medium bowl and add vegetables, salt, ground pepper, and any other ingredients you wish to add.

4)       Pour mixture into the muffin cups and bake for 18-20 minutes.

Summer Veggie Frittata

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 Tbs olive or coconut oil
• 1 (6") zucchini, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 1 Tbs fresh thyme
• 1/2 tsp Himalayan salt, divided
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium tomato, seeded and chopped
• 9 large eggs

Directions:

1)       Heat coconut oil in a 10" oven-proof skillet over medium heat. When hot, add zucchini, pepper, onion, thyme, 1/4 tsp sea salt, 1/8 tsp pepper and garlic.

2)       Cover and cook until vegetables are tender (about 5-7 minutes), stirring occasionally.

3)       Stir in tomato. Cook, uncovered, for 5 minutes more or until liquid evaporates.

4)       Combine eggs and remaining salt and pepper and whisk until frothy.

5)       Pour eggs over vegetable mixture and stir gently. Cover, reduce heat and cook 15 minutes.

6)       Meanwhile, preheat broiler to low. Finish frittata with 3 minutes under the broiler (until fully set).

7)       Invert onto a plate, slice and serve warm or cold.

Savory Zucchini Fritters (Makes approximately 5 (5″) fritters, or 10 (2″) fritters)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded zucchini (about 2 medium zucchini)
• 3 organic eggs
• 1 Tbs coconut flour
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• coconut oil

Directions:

1)       Shred zucchini by hand or in a food processor (rough chop) and set aside (if it is very wet, lightly blot it dry with a paper towel).

2)       In a large bowl, beat eggs together.

3)       Sift coconut flour into eggs and beat together. Note: coconut flour often has clumps, which is why sifting is important.

4)       Combine shredded zucchini, sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

5)       Meanwhile, set a large cast iron skillet over medium-low heat. When hot, add coconut to coat the bottom of the pan.

6)       Spoon the mixture into the pan in desired sized fritters.

7)       Serve warm or at room temperature.

8)       Optional: add other spices or fresh herbs to the recipe in step 4.

Omelet

Ingredients:

• 4 organic free range omega-3 eggs
• 1 T. butter/ghee
• 1 c chopped spinach leaves
• 1 tsp fresh basil, finely chopped
• 1 small avocado
• Freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

1)       In a small mixing bowl, whisk eggs until foamy.

2)        Heat butter/ghee in a small skillet over medium flame and add eggs. Using a spatula, tilt pan and lift edges to allow uncooked eggs to make contact with hot surface of pan.

3)       When eggs are almost set, place the spinach on one side, sprinkle with basil and pepper and fold in half. Reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 1 minute.

4)       Slide onto place and garnish with sliced avocado.

Mexican Breakfast Scramble (serves 2)

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp coconut oil
• 4 organic eggs
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (or ground chipotle)
• 1/4 tsp Himalayan salt
• 1 Tbs water
• 1/4 red onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeno, diced (optional)
• 12 oz organic chicken breasts, boiled and chopped
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions:

1)       Heat coconut oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.

2)       Meanwhile, break eggs into a small bowl. Add cumin, chili powder, sea salt (if desired), and water. Scramble with a fork until fully combined.

3)       Add onions, bell peppers, and jalapeno to the hot skillet. Saute 3-5 minutes, or until slightly softened.

4)       Add eggs and chicken, and cook while continuously stirring until eggs are light and fluffy.

5)       Remove from heat. Stir in tomatoes, and top with fresh cilantro to serve.

Soups and Salads

Chopped Greek Salad with Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup red-wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, or oregano or 1 teaspoon dried
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 2 1/2 cups chopped cooked chicken, (about 12 ounces; see Tip)
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 medium cucumber, peeled, seeded and chopped
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup sliced ripe black olives
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Directions:

1)       Whisk vinegar, oil, dill (or oregano), garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

2)       Add lettuce, chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and feta; toss to coat.

Notes:

Ø       Poach 1 pound chicken breasts for this recipe. Place boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a medium skillet or saucepan. Add lightly salted water to cover and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low and simmer gently until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the middle, 10 to 15 minutes.

Avocado and Watercress Salad (delicious with a small seared ahi tuna on top)

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup rice vinegar (not seasoned)
• 1 tablespoon grated sweet onion such as Vidalia or Walla Walla (use large holes of a box grater)
• 1/4 cup finely grated peeled Gala apple (use small holes of box grater)
• 4 teaspoons of coconut aminos (tastes like soy sauce)
• 1 teaspoon stevia all natural sweetener (or a drop of all natural honey)
• 3 tablespoons of sesame, coconut, or olive oil
• 6 cups watercress (thin stems and leaves only; from 1 large bunch)
• 1 firm-ripe avocado

Directions:

1. Stir together vinegar, onion, apple, soy sauce, and natural sweetener until dissolved.
2. Stir in oil.
3. Just before serving, toss watercress with enough dressing to coat. Quarter, pit, and peel avocado, then cut crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Gently toss with watercress.

Ahi Tuna Salad

Ingredients:

·         1 pound of fresh sushi grade tuna steak diced into bite size pieces (raw for amazing ahi or cooked in a pan with a little sesame oil to desired temp and cooled)

·         1 ripe avocado peeled, pitted, diced

·         1/2 cup diced cucumber

·         1/2 cup of diced red or green onion (or both is great)

·         1 1/2 tsp of red pepper flakes

·         1 tbs of toasted sesame seeds

·         2 tsp of sesame oil

·         1 1/2 tsp of fresh squeezed lemon

·         Dashes of low sodium soy sauce to taste

Directions:

1)       Combine all together, stir carefully to avoid mashing the avocado.

2)       Chill in a bowl of ice for 15 minutes and eat right away to preserve the freshness of the fish.

Spicy Green Salad with Roasted Garlic Dressing

Dressing:

• 1 head garlic
• 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon coconut aminos (like soy sauce)
• Freshly ground pepper, to taste

Salad:

• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon plus pinch of Himalayan salt, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 1/2 small clove garlic
• 2 cups baby mizuna, baby kale or Asian salad mix
• 2 cups baby red mustard greens, tatsoi or watercress, any tough stems removed
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted (see notes)

Directions:

1)       Preheat oven to 400°F.

To prepare dressing:

2)       Rub excess papery skin off garlic head without separating cloves. Slice the tip off, exposing the ends of the cloves. Place the garlic head on a piece of foil, drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and wrap into a package.

3)       Put in a baking dish and bake until the garlic is very soft, 40 minutes to 1 hour. Unwrap and let cool slightly. Increase oven temperature to 450°F.

4)       Squeeze the garlic pulp into a blender or food processor (discard the skins).

5)       Add the remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil, lime juice, vinegar, ginger, sesame oil and soy sauce; blend or process until smooth. Season with pepper.

To prepare salad:

1)       Toss asparagus with 2 teaspoons oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper in a large bowl.

2)       Spread in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.

3)       Roast, stirring once halfway through, until tender and browned, 10 to 15 minutes.

4)       Meanwhile, season a wooden salad bowl by rubbing with 1/2 clove garlic and a pinch of salt. Chop the garlic and add to the bowl along with all the greens. (If leaves are large, tear them into bite-size pieces first.)

5)       Pour 1/4 cup of the dressing over the greens. (Cover and refrigerate the remaining 1/2 cup dressing for up to 3 days.)

6)       Sprinkle the salad with sesame seeds and the asparagus; toss and serve.

Notes:

Ø       Cover and refrigerate the dressing for up to 3 days.

Ø       To toast sesame seeds, cook in a small dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly browned, 2 to 4 minutes.

Blueberry Walnut Salad

Dressing: Homemade Raspberry Vinaigrette

·         2 1/2 pints fresh or frozen raspberries, pureed

·         1 teaspoon fresh minced garlic

·         2 tablespoon minced green onions

·         1/4 cup raspberry vinegar

·         1 cup olive oil

·         Stevia sweetener to taste

·         Salt and pepper to taste

·         Some like to add a little dijon mustard to taste as well

Salad:

·         1 (10 ounce) package of organic mixed salad greens

·         1 pint fresh organic blueberries

·         1/4 cup walnuts

·         1/2 cup raspberry vinaigrette salad dressing (avoid bottled and make fresh when possible)

·         1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Directions:

1)       Combine all the dressing ingredients in a jar with a tight fitting lid. Shake vigorously until the ingredients are combined.

2)       In a large bowl, toss the salad greens with the blueberries, walnuts, and raspberry vinaigrette. Top with feta cheese to serve.

Warm Winter Salad

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces organic boneless, skinless chicken breast, trimmed of fat
• 1 tablespoon of Coconut Oil
• 1 pear, sliced
• 1 small shallot, minced
• 3 tablespoons sherry vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 small head radicchio, thinly sliced
• 1 small fennel bulb, cored and thinly sliced
• 1 large carrot, cut into matchsticks
• 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts, toasted (see Tip)
• 1/8 teaspoon Himalayan salt, or to taste
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper, or to taste
• 6 large butter lettuce leaves

Directions:

1)       Poach chicken (see notes). Use 2 forks to shred into bite-size pieces.

2)       Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add pears and cook, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl.

3)       Whisk shallot, vinegar and mustard in a small bowl; add to the pan and cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds. Add the cooked chicken, radicchio, fennel, carrot and walnuts. Cook, stirring occasionally, until just wilted, about 3 minutes. Return the pears to the pan. Season with salt and pepper.

4)       Divide lettuce leaves between 2 plates. Top with the warm chicken salad and sprinkle with cheese.

Notes:

Ø       To toast chopped walnuts, cook in a small dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly browned, 2 to 4 minutes.

Ø       To poach chicken, place boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a medium skillet or saucepan and add lightly salted water to cover; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low and simmer gently until chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the middle, 10 to 12 minutes.

Orange, Avocado and Cashew Salad (serves 2)

Ingredients:

• 2 large oranges, segmented
• 1 large ripe avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup cashews
• 3 handfuls spinach, arugula or watercress
• olive oil
• sea salt and black pepper
• 2 (3-4 oz) grilled chicken breasts, sliced (optional, if served by itself)

Directions:

1)       Prepare both oranges by cutting off the rind and outer membrane and slicing out the wedges of fruit between the segments. Do this over a bowl and set the remaining juice aside.

2)       Divide the greens up between two plates, and top with oranges, avocados and cashews.

3)       Add a drizzle of olive oil and any juice left over from the oranges. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

4)       Add grilled chicken breast slices on top (optional, if served by itself).

Raw Cabbage and Pineapple Salad (serves 2)

Ingredients:

• 1/2 head red cabbage, shredded
• 1/2 small pineapple, diced
• 1 cup hazelnuts, chopped
• 2 Tbs olive oil (optional)

Directions:

1)       Combine cabbage and pineapple. Drizzle with olive oil (optional).

2)       Store salad up to three days. Top with hazelnuts right before serving.

Taco Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 lb organic ground beef
• 2 Tbs chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic salt
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp Himalayan salt
• 3/4 cup water
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 3 romaine hearts
• 1 jar black olives, sliced
• 1 avocado
• fresh cilantro
• Fresh Salsa (see recipes in condiment section)
• Dollop of sour cream

Directions:

1)       Heat medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and onion to pan. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until browned.

2)       Add chili powder, garlic salt, cumin, oregano, sea salt and water, and let simmer for 5 minutes more.

3)       Meanwhile, wash lettuce and tear onto two plates (save some for leftovers).

4)       Top with meat, sliced avocado, black olives, tomatoes, cilantro, salsa, and sour cream.

Mexican Chicken Salad

Dressing:

• 1 firm-ripe California avocado, quartered, pitted, and peeled
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 large garlic clove, finely chopped
• l 1/4 teaspoons of sea or rock crystal salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Salad:

• 4 cups coarsely shredded cooked (boiled) organic chicken breast (about 1 pound)
• 1 pound jicama, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch-thick matchsticks
• 3 scallions, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh serrano chile
• Fresh romaine or bibb lettuce

Directions:

1)       Blend dressing ingredients in a blender until smooth.

2)       Toss salad ingredients with dressing in a large bowl until combined well.

3)       Enjoy over chopped romaine or roll in a large piece of bibb lettuce

Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Warm Cider Vinaigrette

Ingredients:

• 1 (1 1/2-pound) butternut squash, peeled and 3/4-inch) diced
• 2 tbls of coconut oil/butter/or ghee
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons fresh diced cherries
• 3/4 cup apple cider or apple juice
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons fresh minced shallots
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 4 ounces baby arugula, washed and spun dry
• 1/2 cup walnuts halves, toasted
• 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan

Directions

1)       Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

2)       Place the butternut squash on a sheet pan. Add 2 tablespoons butter/oil, the maple syrup, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper and toss. Roast the squash for 15 to 20 minutes, turning once, until tender. Add the cranberries to the pan for the last 5 minutes.

3)       While the squash is roasting, combine the apple cider, vinegar, and shallots in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, until the cider is reduced to about 1/4 cup. Off the heat, whisk in the mustard, 1/2 cup olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.

4)       Place the arugula in a large salad bowl and add the roasted squash mixture, the walnuts, and the grated Parmesan. Spoon just enough vinaigrette over the salad to moisten and toss well. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

 Garden Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons real organic butter or ghee
• 2 cups chopped leeks, white part only (from approximately 3 medium leeks)
• 2 tablespoons finely minced garlic
• Himalayan salt to taste
• 2 cups carrots, peeled and chopped into rounds (approximately 2 medium)
• 2 cups peeled and diced potatoes
• 2 cups fresh green beans, broken or cut into 3/4-inch pieces
• 2 quarts vegetable broth
• 4 cups peeled, seeded, and chopped tomatoes
• 2 cups of corn (organic non-gmo)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup packed, chopped fresh parsley leaves
• 1 to 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Directions:

1)       Heat the butter in large, heavy-bottomed stockpot over medium-low heat.

2)       Once hot, add the leeks, garlic, and a pinch of salt and sweat until they begin to soften, approximately 7 to 8 minutes.

3)       Add the carrots, potatoes, and green beans and continue to cook for 4 to 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally.

4)       Add the stock, increase the heat to high, and bring to a simmer.

5)       Once simmering, add the tomatoes, corn kernels, and pepper.

6)       Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook until the vegetables are fork tender, approximately 25 to 30 minutes.

7)       Remove from heat and add the parsley and lemon juice.

8)       Season, to taste, with kosher salt. Serve immediately.

Another veggie goody

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons organic ghee, coconut, or olive oil
• 2 cups chopped leeks, white part only (from approximately 3 medium leeks)
• 2 tablespoons finely minced fresh garlic
• Kosher salt
• 2 cups carrots, peeled and chopped into rounds (approximately 2 medium)
• 2 cups diced red potatoes (skin included)
• 2 cups of chopped bok choy
• 2 quarts of organic vegetable broth
• 4 cups peeled, seeded, and chopped tomatoes
• 1 cup of organic fresh/frozen corn
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup packed, chopped fresh parsley leaves
• 1 to 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Directions:

1)       Heat the butt/ghee/oil in large, heavy-bottomed stockpot over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the leeks, garlic, and a pinch of salt and sweat until they begin to soften, approximately 7 to 8 minutes. Add the carrots and the potatoes and continue to cook for 4 to 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally.

2)       Add the stock, increase the heat to high, and bring to a simmer. Once simmering, add the tomatoes, corn, bok choy, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook until the vegetables are fork tender, approximately 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from heat and add the parsley and lemon juice. Season, to taste, with pure sea/rock crystal salt. Serve immediately.

Chicken stew

Ingredients:

• 1 pound(s) organic boneless, skinless breasts, cut into 1 in pieces
• 1 cup(s) carrots, chopped
• 1 cup(s) russet potatoes, cut into large chunks
• 1 cup(s) sweet potatoes, cut into large chunks
• 1 teaspoon(s) crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoon(s) chopped garlic
• 4 cup(s) organic vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon(s) ground sage
• 1 teaspoon(s) dried basil
• 2 tablespoon(s) balsamic vinegar
• Himalayan salt and fresh pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup(s) tomato sauce

Directions:

1)       Add all ingredients to slow cooker. Turn heat to high, cover, and cook for 1 hour. Stir.

2)       Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered for 4-6 hours, or until chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender.

Notes:

Ø       For an additional health kick, toss in some of your favorite frozen veggies at the start of the meal preparation.

Chicken, Chard and Yam Soup (serves 8)

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbs coconut oil (or organic ghee)
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, finely diced
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp Himalayan salt, divided (optional)
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless organic chicken breasts
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 6 cups water
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 oz jalapenos, canned and diced
• 1 large yam, diced
• 1 bunch swiss chard, leaves shredded and stems sliced
• 1 bunch green onions, sliced (whites and greens)
• juice of 1 lemon

Directions:

1)       Heat large pot over medium-high heat. When hot, add oil/ghee, onion, garlic, carrot, thyme, and oregano, and sauté until onion is softened and slightly translucent (about 10 minutes), stirring occasionally.

2)       Meanwhile, mix 1/4 teaspoon salt (if desired) and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper in a medium bowl. Cut chicken into 1/2" slices and toss in sea salt and black pepper mixture.

3)       Add chicken to pot and continue to cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4)       Reduce heat to medium, add vegetable broth, water, bay leaf, jalapenos, yam, chard, and green onions and simmer for 20 minutes.

5)       Just before serving, season with remaining salt (if desired), black pepper, and fresh lemon juice.

Gazpacho

Ingredients:

• 2 Roma (plum) tomatoes, quartered
• 1 large cucumber, peeled and halved
• 1 onion, peeled and halved
• 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
• 1 (4 ounce) jar diced pimento peppers, drained
• 24 oz of organic tomato juice (in a glass jar- not a can if possible)
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Himalayan salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

Directions:

1)       In a blender combine one tomato, half the cucumber, half the onion, a green bell pepper quarter, the pimento and 1/2 cup tomato juice. Blend at high speed for 30 seconds to puree the vegetables.

2)       In a large bowl mix the pureed vegetables with remaining tomato juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, vinegar, hot pepper sauce, salt and ground black pepper. Cover mixture and refrigerate until it is well chilled (about 2 hours).

3)       Place remaining chopped tomato, cucumber, onion and green bell pepper in separate bowls. Serve soup in chilled bowls, garnish with chives, and serve chopped vegetables and as accompaniments.

Paprika & Red Pepper Soup with Pistachio Puree

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin coconut oil, organic ghee, or real organic butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 large red bell peppers, halved lengthwise, stemmed, seeded and diced
• 1-2 fresh green Thai or serrano chiles, stemmed and coarsely chopped
• 2 teaspoons sweet Hungarian paprika
• 1 teaspoon high quality sea/rock crystal salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 cup unsalted shelled pistachios
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons whipping cream
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro or basil

Directions:

1)       Heat oil/butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion, bell peppers and chile to taste. Cook, stirring, until the vegetables release some of their juices and the onion is lightly brown around the edges, 3 to 5 minutes. Sprinkle the vegetables with paprika, salt and cardamom and cook, stirring, until the spices are very fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes.

2)       Add pistachios and broth (or water). Stir and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until the peppers are fork-tender, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from the heat; let cool 5 minutes.

3)       Transfer the soup to a blender (in batches if necessary) and puree until smooth. (Use caution when pureeing hot liquids.) Return the soup to the pan.

4)      Whisk buttermilk and cream in a bowl; stir into the soup. Gently warm over low heat. Serve sprinkled with cilantro (or basil).

Vegetable Beef Stew

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbs organic butter or ghee
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 lb grass fed beef stew meat
• 2 cups water or broth (vegetable)
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 medium carrots, sliced (or a few handfuls of baby carrots, sliced)
• 1 (14-oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and well drained
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 Tbs parsley
• 1/2 tsp coriander
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp ground marjoram
• 1/2 tsp Himalayan salt (optional)

Directions:

1)       Heat a heavy bottomed soup pot over medium-high heat.

2)       When pan is hot, add butter/ghee and onion. Brown slightly (about 2-3 minutes).

3)       Add stew meat and brown (about 5 minutes), stirring occasionally.

4)       Turn heat down to medium-low, and add all other ingredients.

5)       Simmer for 35-45 minutes, or until beef is tender.

Broccoli Soup with Blue Cheese

Ingredients:

·         2 T butter/ghee

·         1 head broccoli, cleaned, stems peeled, and chopped (approximately one pound, you can easily sub in frozen)

·         1 small onion, chopped

·         1 zucchini, chopped

·         2 carrots, chopped

·         2 red potatoes, chopped - leave the skin on, just cut off any rootlets

·         8 cups vegetable stock, low sodium

·         3 ounces soft blue cheese - look for a cheese labeled Cambozola

·         salt and pepper to taste, but do go easy on the salt

·         Optional: slivered almonds as a garnish

Directions:

1)       Put the butter/ghee in a large pot and heat over medium heat until the oil shimmers. Add the broccoli, onion, zucchini, carrots, and red potatoes. Stir to coat with oil. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring a couple times. Add the stock, return to a simmer, cover and simmer about half an hour or until the vegetables are thoroughly cooked and super tender.

2)       Using either an immersion blender or a hand held potato smasher slightly blend the ingredients. If you do not want a smooth soup, leave enough chunks to make it interesting. A chunky soup will fill you up better than a smooth soup even though the calories remain the same.

3)       Stir in the blue cheese and simmer until it melts (no boiling please, a gentle simmer). Season with pepper, taste. If you need salt add some, but there is a lot of salt in cheese so you should be fine without it. You might try a few dashes of Tabasco sauce instead of salt.

4)       Serve as is or top with slivered almonds.

Main Courses

Ginger-Steamed Fish

Fish

·         6 5-ounce portions striped bass, halibut or any flaky white fish

·         6 1/4-inch-thick slices peeled fresh ginger

Sauce

·         1/4 cup minced peeled fresh ginger

·         1/4 cup chopped garlic

·         1/4 cup sesame seeds

·         2 tablespoons coconut oil

·         2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil

·         1-2 tbls reduced-sodium soy sauce

·         2-3 scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish

Directions:

1)       To prepare fish: Bring 1 to 2 inches of water to a boil in a pot large enough to hold a two-tier bamboo steamer. (If you don’t have a steamer, improvise by setting mugs upside down in a large pot and resting a large heatproof plate on top.) Put a heatproof plate in each of the steamer baskets. Place 3 portions of fish on each plate with a slice of fresh ginger on top. Stack the baskets, cover and set over the boiling water. Steam the fish for 7 minutes per inch of thickness.

2)       To prepare sauce: Meanwhile, combine minced ginger, garlic and sesame seeds in a small bowl. Heat coconut oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ginger mixture and cook, stirring, until fragrant, 1 minute. Add sesame oil; allow the mixture to get hot. Add soy sauce (be careful, it will splatter a bit) and cook for 1 minute more.

3)       Transfer the fish to a deep platter. Discard the ginger slices. Pour the sauce over the fish and garnish with scallions.

Baked Spaghetti Squash with Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

For the Spaghetti Squash:

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 2 tbls extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Sauce:

• 2 red bell peppers
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ripe tomatoes, diced (3 cups)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Dash of red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup packed fresh basil, coarsely chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt

Directions:

1)       Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Brush cut sides of squash with oil, and sprinkle with sugar and salt and pepper to taste. Place squash, cut sides down, on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake until tender, about 45 minutes.

2)       While the squash is baking, make the creamy roasted red pepper sauce. Roast red peppers over gas flame, under the broiler, or on the grill. Roast for about 10 minutes, or until peppers are completely black. Place peppers in a paper bag to allow to sweat. Peel the charred skins from the peppers and remove the seeds. Chop the peppers and set aside.

3)       In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 2 minutes. Add the red peppers and diced tomatoes. Add oregano, red pepper flakes, fresh basil, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer on stove for 10 minutes. Stir in the Greek yogurt. Purée the sauce in the pan, using an immersion blender. You can also transfer the sauce to a blender or food processor, but be careful. Make sure the sauce is not super hot so you don't get burnt. Puree until smooth, with some texture remaining.

4)       When the squash is done baking, let it cool for a few minutes-until you can touch it. Scrape the squash with a fork to remove flesh in long strands. Place in a large bowl or on individual plates and top with roasted red pepper sauce.  Serve warm.

Roast Chicken Recipe (serve with Cauliflower Mash and Sundried Tomato Pesto recipes below)

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breast
• 4 tbsp melted ghee, butter, or coconut oil
• A pinch or two of your favorite dried herbs
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Directions:

1)       Preheat your oven to 375 F.

2)       Place the chicken breast in baking dish and pierce the meat with a fork on both sides. Drizzle with the cooking fat of choice and season with salt, peppers and dried herbs.

3)       Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the juices run clear.

 Spaghetti Squash with Fresh Tomato and Basil Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ripe tomatoes, cut into chunks (3 cups)
• 2 Tbsp thin slivers red onion
• 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• ½ tsp minced garlic
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp dried oregano
• ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ cup thin slices fresh basil
• One (2 ¼ lb) spaghetti squash, cut in half lengthwise, seeds removed
• 2 cups of water

Directions:

1)       Place the spaghetti squash whole into a slow cooker with 2 cups of water. Heat on low for 8-9 hours.

2)       Put tomatoes, onion, olive oil, garlic, salt, oregano, and pepper in a large bowl and toss to mix.

3)       Let stand, tossing occasionally, until very juicy, about 30 minutes.

4)       Prepare the squash immediately before serving by cutting in half lengthwise as this ensure long strands. Remove as many seeds as you can from the center. Then run a fork through the squash to remove the strands.

5)       Stir basil into tomato mixture. Mound squash on serving plates and top with sauce.

Mushroom Primavera with Spaghetti Squash

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 tbs Sliced Kalamata olives
• 3/4 cup Crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 lb White button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tbs butter/ghee
• 1 Spaghetti squash (about 3 pounds)
• 2 cups of water
• 1/2 cup Chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish

Directions:

1)       Place the spaghetti squash whole into a slow cooker with 2 cups of water. Heat on low for 8-9 hours.

2)       Heat butter/ghee in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a single layer of mushrooms and cook, without stirring, for about 5 minutes or until mushrooms become red-brown on one side. Stir in onion and garlic and cook for 3 more minutes, until onions are softened. Add tomatoes, cheese and olives and cook about 3 minutes longer, until mixture is hot and bubbling. Remove pan from heat and stir in basil.