AF's arrival

Very scant for 5 days Nov 15-19.

Cycle

Oct 21-25

Cycle again

AF showed up again - only 20 days between visits... grrrr...

Final UVA appt

I went yesterday for my final appt at the UVA. I had the 2 1/2 hour fasting glucose test and other baseline readings. It went fine. The head Dr of the study came in to thank me, the nurse was much better this time and I got a nice quiet room with a bed, warm blankets and mindless TV. I turned in all my urine samples. My cycles the last 3 months have actually been a bit short, but they've been there the last 3 months - better than long or nonexistent I say! They told me that in the tests they did during the treatments, I had not ovulated at all - they would let me know if any of the urine tests showed ovulation from the last 3 months. They will be sending all my baseline test results to my ND, who will pass them on to me.

I am looking forward to starting back on the progesterone and estrogen creams!

Another cycle

AF arrived Sept 5 - 10. I was emotionally a WRECK this time at the beginning. Not fun, but better after. I think there were only 24 days between this time and last - a bit short, but better than long or non-existent!

I EXCERCISED!!!!

Alright, been putting off and putting off exercising... realizing how quickly muscle disappears when it's not in use! I pulled out T-Tapp and did the floor routine called "Secret to a Flat Stomach" :-) I acutally did the whole routine 3x to be sure I got it despite interruptions, it's pretty short. I am planning to get back to my 15 min basic routine daily again soon - but am proud of myself for doing SOMETHING today!!! Now off for a tromp through the woods with the kids to see if we can find any lizards or snakes for Will.

Updated

After writing the post below, I started my cycle the same day - day 30, woo hoo! Two weeks of spotting was no fun, but at least there was a fairly normal time between. I am looking forward to being done with the PCOS study so that I can take some more supplements and hormone creams. In the meantime, I am continuing to work on weight loss. It's amazing how much my mood improved as soon as my cycle started. I feel so much better while on my period - even with cramps and aches - it's wierd.

It's not worth it!

While I was traveling I started out pretty careful, we took our food and didn't stop to eat at all - but once we got to my sister's, I gradually let myself eat things I shouldn't. I gained 8lbs back all said - not too bad for 3-4 weeks of eating poorly, but now I have to work at that again.

I have been back on my strict diet for 5 days now and have lost 4lbs so far. I need to get into exercising again as the weight seems to have all settled in my rear end and my skirts aren't fitting the same. Exercise is much needed to smooth and tone.

I started my cycle right before we left on our trip - was quite heavy and a bit long, but not too bad. Right before I left, I started spotting again and that has continued for the last week and a half. It's driving me crazy!!!

So, with all that, I was feeling pretty bad the last couple weeks. I was not sleeping well, felt exhausted and moody, had major breakouts, itchy face, joint pain, got slapped with several migraines in a row, was constipated, etc... After starting back on the diet, I began detoxing. It was worse for several days, I had lots of pain at the base of my neck and shoulders. I did some salt bath soaks and that pain got better but it went into my thyroid which hurt for a couple days but is now feeling better also.

My spirits are lifted today and I am ready to tackle the housecleaning that got behind. Looks like we might get some much needed rain! A good day to be at home.

The moral of the story is: It's not worth it!!! The pain and trouble and moods and pounds - not worth a few cookies, cake, icecream and soda... really it's not!

Something we've noticed...

Tom and I both have recenlty noticed that when I am eating well, I am happy and calm/stable. When I eat anything off "the plan" I get suddenly moody, depressed, irritable. I mean in an immediate, huge switch kinda way. Very interesting!

You know how it goes, "when mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy!"... so another great motivator to behave myself.

Weight lost...

... now a total of FIFTY POUNDS!

Hooray!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Long overdue update

Okay, been so busy and haven't taken the time to post here. Nothing real exciting going on, I completed my yeast detox diet and have struggled since with my eating. I've gone from taking little cheats to full-blown s'more's Sat night. I had hoped to slide into low-carb and continue losing weight, but that didn't go so well... so then I decided to re-start the yeast detox diet, and that has gone even worse. I haven't gained any weight, am holding steady at 44lbs lost, but really need to get losing again to reach my goal by the end of the year.

I have not done well at all with exercise in the last month. I finished the T-Tapp challenge with over 19" lost, but could have done so much better had I been as consistent the 2nd 30-days as I was the first 30-days. I would like to do the 15-min Basic Workout each morning and get the Instructional #2 done a couple times in a week also... gotta just do it!

My cycle has not started again yet, so it's been 53 days now... grrr.... my acupuncture treatments are done now. I think I was getting the placebo after all is said and done. I have a few months of collecting urine samples at home and then go back for the final tests one last time. I am still glad I did it, was a good experience overall.

I have been waking early and having coffee with Tom, spending time in God's Word and prayer. That has been good. I've been kinda moody and down the last few days though. Will be better soon, pray for strength and self-control for me!

I have a cold, waaah.

Just a big whine here, really. I had a sore throat Friday and Saturday and then was fine Sunday all day. Woke up this morning with pretty bad chest congestion. I feel icky. :-(

My tummy was aching last night too. I ate whatever I wanted this weekend since I was pretty much done with the yeast cleanse and am starting the low carb today. I took advantage of being "between diets" and Mother's Day weekend, LOL. I was paying for it last night, just felt bloated and nauseous and had some pains.

2nd week of treatments

I have had a total of 4 acupuncture sessions in the last 2 weeks. After each session I get achiness in my right leg as I drive home. The first 2 sessions I also had twinges in my right ovary afterwards. The 2nd session, I fell asleep and rested well. The day after my 2nd session I started my cycle finally and it has been normal and painless! The 3rd session I felt weightless and tingly on the table - I also fell asleep pretty hard. The 4th session I slept for just the last couple minutes I think, it was rather intense - I felt pain across my kidneys and kinda radiating back and forth between my hip bones in back, I also had some pain in my sciatic nerves.

I take a pregnancy test each Tuesday before my session and they have of course both been negative. The acupuncturist did tell me that one of the ladies she was treating in the study became pregnant last week though - that is exciting!

Doing so much better!

I just had to write about how much better I am feeling! I have been doing much better on feeling rested in the mornings and getting up for my quiet times. I've enjoyed sitting outside on the porch in the cool mornings with my Bible and a cup of coffee. A huge praise - AF arrived on Friday and has been completely painless! Also very normal in every way, the length of time has been especially impressive. I am so excited!!!

How the diet is going...

I started week 15 of my cleanse on Tuesday, so about a week and a half left! I will continue to take yeast killing supplements, probiotics, etc... but will switch to low-carb which means that I will be allowed dairy (cheese... mmmmm) but not rice or potatoes. That is really the only big difference between how I am eating now and what I will switch to. Anyway, we'll see how it goes. I expect that since I am exercising and feeling better in general, I will continue to lose weight - hopefully even pick up the pace a little as it has slowed down a good bit. So... that's the plan!

I have been doing a lot better with my water drinking (1/2 gallon a day) and remembering my vitamins and supplements, that helps me feel better. I am also getting tired at night earlier and having an easier time waking up in the morning (I still don't like it any better - but it is easier to stay awake once I wake up and not just roll over and go back to sleep.)

Missing: Aunt Flo

I have not had a new cycle since Feb 15. I am bummed about that. I feel "on edge" a lot of days and have been tense, bloated, etc but it just isn't happening. I know I am not pregnant, so what is going on? I need to look up what I can take to help I guess.

"YOU have lost a lot of weight!"

I got that today from our CSA leader when I went to pick up our fresh produce and raw milk. I can't help but grin - love hearing it! I have been getting more comments lately on looking nice, etc... it's fun.

First week of treatments

My first week of acupuncture treatments is done. I am going on Tuesdays and Thursdays for the next 4 weeks (well 3 remaining). The treatments are simple and very relaxing. I actually fell asleep on the table this afternoon! I am not sure yet if I am getting the acupuncture or the sham, but I am trying to figure it out (though I know I probably shouldn't for the study, can't help myself).

My first PCOS appt.

I went to the UVA today for the baseline blood draws and blood glucose tests. I left home around 10am, Tom had the kids all day. I went to my sister Amanda's to help her out for a couple hours with new baby Oliver and her 2 older kids. When I went to leave, I discovered I had left my lights on and had to ask Noah to jump my battery. :( So, I was about 15 minutes late for my appt. I got there and did a weigh-in (lost 3.5lbs since last time!) and blood pressure reading (130/85 - yikes!). Then I gave a urine sample and was shown to a room and bed to get comfy in. They hooked up a hep lock (to avoid a new needle for each draw - there were 4 of them) and got the initial blood and then gave me a bag of jelly beans to eat within 10 minutes. I thought - no problem, I haven't eaten for 17 hours and have had no sugar in 4 months - ha! It was a lot harder than I thought, but still better than the nasty syrupy drink! After that I had some questionnares to fill out and then was left to just relax, read, watch TV etc... they did 3 more blood draws every half hour. Then they brought me my $50 check and a dinner of grilled chicken, salad, an apple and bottle of water (per my request) and I was out of there. Oh, they took my blood pressure again before I left and it was 83/65 - a little low actually. All in all, it went well. Next week I start the treatments for a total of 8 weeks and then I return to the hospital for these same blood draws/tests again followed by 5 weeks of urine samples and then a third 2-hour blood draw/tests to end the study.

PCOS Herbal Recommendations

From an article "Phytotherapy for polycystic ovarian syndrome" by Angela Hywood.
Link Here

The first step in restoring ovarian function and a normal menstrual cycle in a PCOS patient is to break the pattern of hyperinsulinemia with a combination of diet and lifestyle strategies. Implementing a low refined carbohydrate diet and exercise is essential for a truly successful protocol.

Primary Herbs

Paeonia lactiflora (White peony)
Paeonia lactiflora has been used for gynecological conditions by both Chinese and Western herbalists, and is used by Western herbalists for PCOS, hyperprolactinemia, endometriosis, ovarian failure and androgen excess. Paeonia has been shown to positively influence low progesterone, reduce elevated androgens (testosterone) and acts to modulate estrogen and prolactin. (7) In vitro, the active constituent paeoniflorin has been shown to affect the ovarian follicle by its action on the aromatase enzyme. (8) Aromatase is important for follicle maturation, ovulation and corpus luteum function, steroid hormone synthesis and the regulation of the conversion of androgens to estrogens. The biofeedback in the pituitary and hypothalamus rely on aromatase to regulate prolactin and GnRH. The daily dose for Paeonia is 4.5 to 9 mL of a 1:2 dried plant extract. (9)The traditional Chinese/Kanpo formula known as Shakuyaku-Kanzo-To or TJ-68, which is a decoction of Glycyrrhiza glabra and Paeonia lactiflora, has been the subject of a number of clinical trials, all of which demonstrate activity in the hormonal regulation of androgens. In one trial involving eight women with hyperandrogenism and oligomenorrhea, the formula was given for 2 to 8 weeks. This combination regulated the LH to FSH ratio. Over this period of time, serum testosterone levels decreased to less than 50 ng/dL and this resulted in seven of the eight women ovulating regularly. (10)Another trial involved 20 women diagnosed with PCOS. The formula was successful in lowering testosterone in 90% of the women, of which 25% went on to conceive. (11) It is suggested that it acts directly on the ovary, increasing the activity of aromatase, which promotes the synthesis of estradiol from testosterone, thus lowering serum testosterone levels. It also seems to regulate the LH to FSH ratio. (12)

Gymnema sylvestre (Gymnema)
Gymnema is a traditional Ayurvedic herb used as an antidiabetic, hypoglycemic, lipid lowering agent and to support weight reduction. Gymnema possibly has a trophorestorative action of the beta cells of the pancreas. (13) The plant part used as medicine is the leaf. Gymnema is well indicated for PCOS, due to its insulin modulating activity and the added benefits of reducing the elevated triglycerides associated with PCOS. Key constituents of Gymnema include saponins, especially the gymnemic acids. Gymnemic acid suppresses the sweet taste on the taste buds, so if taken before food masks the sweet sensation. Gymnema has demonstrated hypoglycemic activity in experimental models of diabetes and regulated blood sugar in hyperglycemia. The mechanism of action also includes the inhibition of glucose absorption in the intestine. The daily dose of Gymnema is 3.5 to 11 mL of 1:1 liquid extract. (9,14) Since conventional medical models are focussing on pharmaceutical agents such as metformin to control PCOS, Gymnema may prove to be one of the most significant herbs in the treatment of the underlying factor of insulin resistance.

Tribulus terrestris (Tribulus)
Tribulus is an endemic weed to many regions of the world, such as the Mediterranean, India, China, South Africa and Australia and is commonly known as puncture vine. The aerial parts, particularly the leaf, are used for medicinal purposes in the Western tradition. As a result of Bulgarian research, Tribulus has become a popular herb for the treatment of female and male endocrine disorders. (15) It acts as a general tonic, aphrodisiac, estrogen modulator and androgen modulator and is used to restore vitality, libido and reduce the physiological effects of stress. (9,11) The Bulgarian research has identified a unique steroidal saponin class known as furostanol saponins, and extracts are standardized to contain at least 45% of these saponins, calculated as protodioscin. The leaf is noted to be higher in these unique saponins rather than the fruit or root. Other active constituents include phytosterols and spirostanol glycosides. The tonic activities of Tribulus have been shown to act by intensifying protein synthesis and enhancing the activity of enzymes associated with energy metabolism. It increased iron absorption from the small intestines and inhibited lipid peroxidation during stress. This leads to more muscle strength and improved endurance and stamina. (9)To ensure the desired clinical results, it is recommended to use only the Bulgarian grown Tribulus standardized to 40% furostanol saponins. It is not interchangeable with the Chinese or Indian Tribulus. The daily dose of Tribulus corresponds to extracts containing furostanol saponins as protodioscin at 300 mg to 400 mg per day. In PCOS it is best used on days 5 to 14 of the menstrual cycle to restore menstrual regularity. For more information on Tribulus, see the forthcoming review which will be published in next months Townsend Letter.

Vitex agnus-castus (Chaste tree)
Vitex beneficial for ovulatory factors associated with PCOS, in particular it has been shown to downregulate the production of excess prolactin, a condition known as hyperprolactinemia. (16) Vitex is also postulated as having antiandrogenic properties. (16) Hyperprolactinemia is related to adrenal stress and hyperinsulinemia in PCOS. It is well documented that the active constituents in Vitex demonstrate a dopaminergic activity and dopamine inhibits the production of prolactin. The dopaminergic compounds in Vitex have been identified as the diterpene, including rotundifuran and 6[beta], 7[beta]-diacetoxy-13-hydroxy-labda-8, 14-diene. However, recent research is pointing to other phytochemicals which may have this activity. (17) Other constituents of Vitex include essential oils, flavonoids (such as casticin) and iridoid glycosides (including aucubin and agnuside). (9,14)Hyperprolactinemia, or the more subtle condition of latent hyperprolactinemia, are amongst the most frequent causes for cyclical disorders, including corpus luteal insufficiency. This can lead to premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and progesterone deficiency, secondary amenorrhea and premenstrual mastalgia. (18) In an uncontrolled study, Vitex reduced elevated prolactin levels in 80% of 34 women with hyperprolactinemia at a dosage of 30 to 40 mg per day for 1 month and improved symptoms of a variety of menstrual disorders, including secondary amenorrhoea, cystic hyperplasia of the endometrium, deficient corpus luteum function, metrorrhagia, polymenorrhea and oligomenorrhea. (9)Vitex reduced the thyroxin releasing hormone (TRH)-induced prolactin release (essentially a pituitary-thyroid axis problem), normalized shortened luteal phases, corrected luteal phase progesterone deficiencies and reduced PMS symptoms in women with luteal phase defects due to latent hyperprolactinemia. (9)Vitex should be considered first line botanical therapy for hyperprolactinemia and given for the duration of at least 3 to 6 months. In herbal writings Vitex is often attributed to increasing LH, which is not desirable in PCOS. However, clinical experience has shown that it is valuable in PCOS, especially when combined with other herbs, probably because of its action in reducing prolactin. The daily dose of Vitex to is 1 to 4 mL of a 1:2 dried plant tincture or 500 to 1000 mg of dried berries daily. (9) It is best taken as a single dose in the morning. (9) In PCOS it is best combined with Tribulus and Paeonia.

Caulophyllum thalictroides (Blue cohosh)
Caulophyllum thalictroides is known by the common name of blue cohosh and is native to North America. Within traditional use among the Native North Americans it was used by women as a remedy for amenorrhea and profuse menstruation, both of which are common features of PCOS. It is particularly useful to being on the menses in PCOS. It has action as a uterine and ovarian tonic and pelvic anti-inflammatory. The known constituents of Caulophyllum root include glycosides, caulosaponin and caulophyllosaponin, which are known to stimulate the uterus. Other identified constituents include N-methylcystine, taspine and thalictroidine. (9) The daily dose is 1.5 to 3 mL of 1:2 dried plant extract. (9)

Sample PCOS Formula
Vitex agnus-castus 1:2 12.5 mL
Glycyrrhiza glabra 1:1 12.5 mL
Paeonia lactiflora 1:2 25 mL
Gymnema sylvestre 1:1 25 mL
Schisandra chinensis 1:2 25 mL Dose: 15 mL per day or 5 mL three times daily 100 mL

In a case of a PCOS patient with amenorrhea, include Caulophyllum thalictroides at a dose of 2 mL per day to help induce the menses. When a cycle has been initiated, change to Tribulus concentrated extract, equivalent to furostanol saponins (as protodioscin) 300 to 400 mg per day on days 5 to 14 of the cycle to ensure cyclic regularity.

The Study begins!

I was accepted into the UVA study. This means that my self-diagnosis of PCOS was indeed accurate and that no other major health issues showed up (diabetes or kidney failure for example). This is all encouraging to me! I am excited about it, and so is Tom. I go on Tuesday for the 2.5 hour blood draw / baseline readings. They will do the glucose tolerance test, hormone readings and cholesterol reading. This will give a starting point as a reference for how I respond to treatments. The following week I start the 2x weekly accupuncture treatments. I will go on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons for 4 weeks and then on Tuesday afternoons for the next 4 weeks.

Reasons I don't have dairy right now

I wanted to clarify the reasons for not having cheese, butter, etc... I am doing the yeast detox diet right now and in order to cleanse yeast I am avoiding those things for a total of 4 months. I don't have a good source for raw milk cheese, butter, sour cream, etc... and don't have the time to make them right now. I believe that dairy is a good thing when eaten in it's whole state as unaltered as possible! :-) Check out Weston A. Price for more information on why!

As I move off the yeast detox, and into the more permanent low-carb phase I will add those things back in but use Amish butter, Farmer's Cheese, and healthy yogurts, etc... At that point I will also cut back on the rice and potatoes.

A sample of meals...

A friend asked what the typical meals looked like for me, so here is a sampling...

Breakfast
Eggs - scrambled, boiled, fried, omelets, etc...
Occasionally beef bacon (don't eat pork, don't like turkey)
I like to wilt spinach and fry an egg on top of it, adding tomatoes, avocado, onion, etc...
Occasionally will have a bowl of rice with cinnamon or fruit on top
Fruit is a great breakfast on-the-go!

Lunch
Very often a salad with lots of veggies in it - I like to add boiled egg, tomato, onion, black and green olives, chick peas, avocado, carrot, etc... with all the goodies, you don't miss the dressing!

Dinner
Chicken or Beef with veggies and rice or potato.
Favorites are: Taco salad, beef stir-fry, roast, grilled steak, burgers or chicken.

A big part of this is the lack of ALL SUGAR and dairy, cheese, butter, etc... and limiting the amount of the carby foods - the only ones are the rice or potatoes and I don't eat too much of those. I have been allowing a couple ounces of raw milk in my coffee daily. A guideline is too eat only God-made foods! Nothing pre-packaged, watch the preservatives and dyes! For seasonings I use Redmond's real salt, fresh ground white pepper, Bragg's Amino Acids, dried herbs (but watch for additives if store-bought). I also only use coconut oil - yummy in place of butter on potatoes, rice, etc.

That's it!

A yummy guilt-free recipe for chocolate cravings!

I made this a couple days ago. It was pretty good - the kids didn't like it, but they haven't been without sugar for almost 4 months! :-)

Take a can of coconut milk (not lite!) and put it in a mixing bowl, being sure to scrape the sides and get all the liquid and cream. Add to that 2 Tbsp of cocoa powder (I have organic with no additives), and 15-20 drops of liquid stevia (I used vanilla creme flavor). Mix well until thickens a bit. Put in a bowl in the fridge for 20 minutes or until well chilled. It tastes better cold!

Kind of like a chocolate mousse! Yummy!!!

Christianity and Acupuncture

Explains my thoughts well...

Click Here



"If a Christian knows that the acupuncture points and meridians are actually low resistance electrical pathways and that the use of acupuncture corrects abnormal flow of electrons in the body and causes the release of endorphins are they violating their conscience and imperiling their eternal destiny if they see a practitioner who believes in the Taoist explanation of acupuncture? If their own conscience and eternal destiny are not in danger are they imperiling the practitioner by reinforcing his or her beliefs? What about the Christian who has no understanding of the physiologic basis for acupuncture? Can they go to a Taoist acupuncturist, get relief, and not embrace Taoist philosophy? I think Paul would say that if using acupuncture would violate a weak Christian's conscience or if a strong Christian's use of acupuncture would violate the conscience of either a weak Christian or of a non-Christian then it would in fact be better to suffer than to find temporal relief and potentially sacrifice eternity (for self or someone else). Similarly it would be better to not eat meat offered to idols if it would somehow violate the conscience of the person eating the meat, the conscience of others seated at the table or the conscience of the person providing the meat. However, if acupuncture is understood by both the patient and the practitioner to simply be an effective therapeutic tool whose physiologic actions are devoid of any metaphysical interpretations then I think Paul would embrace it as one of many tools God has provided for the relief of suffering."

The study at the UVA is being done by MDs ("not quacks" in the words of the study organizer)... I will be carefully watching the acupuncturists, but as far as I can tell, they are researching the science end of it - which I think is valid despite who "invented it/used it first". Tom and I are still prayerfully and thoughtfully comfortable with me participating in this study if the Lord allows. I will get my results back no later than Wed this week to see if I qualify. I am leaving it in His hands.

An Article from UVA

This article talks about the study that I am hoping to participate in. I went Tuesday and had the diagnostic blood draw. I should hear next week if I can proceed with it. I am excited!

Click Here for Article

Now gone - 35lbs! :D

Hooray for me - I've now lost 35 pounds! I am feeling pretty good about everything and am very excited to start the 60 day T-Tapp challenge next week. I know that will kick the weight loss up a bit, and more importantly inches lost and toning. :-)

T-Tapp 60 Day Challenge!

I'm excited about this! Great motivation. :-)

It begins April 11 with pictures, measurements and general info for the entry. There are several categories, haven't decided which I will enter. There is a Youth Division, so Heather is going to enter with me! :-) We exercise daily for 60 days and send photos and measurements on May 11 and then again final photos on June 11 with an essay. We also need to keep a daily exercise log. We could win a trip to FL, discounts to the workshop, or T-Tapp materials.

This is just what I needed to get motivated to exercise!

Next step on eating plan

I am very thankful for eggs, coffee, and baskets full of fruit. They have been my "grab-n-go" foods these last months!


The LifeForce plan says that I could add back the following foods this week (I can't believe it's been 9 weeks already!):

• Vinegar


• Nuts


• Beans


• Dried fruit


• Juices


• Soy sauce


• Popcorn

However, keeping in mind that I want to transition to low carb to continue the weight loss and health benefits, I have decided that I would allow vinegar (olives/pickles/marinades - yeah!), and small amounts of nuts and beans only. I will continue to avoid the dried fruit, juices, soy sauce and popcorn.

Over the next few weeks they also allow you to re-introduce grains, yeast, sugar and dairy. My plan is to NOT add those in, except the dairy on week 16 - and that will be small amounts of raw milk, some farmer's cheese, amish butter, cottage cheese and sour cream. As I add those in, I will decrease the rice and potatoes to make the transition.

I will stick with those foods as a general guideline for life... I just can't have the carbs except on very rare occasions!

Pretty proud of myself

This is my dinner tonight. Mmmmmm.... wild salmon filets cooked in coconut oil, salt, pepper, Bragg's Amino Acids and a bit of black tea with lemon (was out of lemon juice), rice, and wilted spinach.

I have done pretty well with my diet, even amidst the hospital stay and craziness since then. On Wed after Tom arrived at the ER I did run out to Hardee's for dinner before the surgeon got back with a prognosis. I was rushed and worried and decided I'd eat whatever I could get and worry about it later. I ordered a Mushroom-n-Swiss meal with UNsweetened tea... once I got back to the ER I sat in the bathroom to gobble it down (Will was starving but not allowed to eat before surgery and I couldn't eat in front of him but wanted to be close) and make sure I could hear if the dr. came in. I started to take a bite of the burger and just couldn't get myself to eat the bread - in fact, didn't even WANT it! The cheese I wanted, but I went ahead and wiped off everything I could and just ate the meat and fries - still not quite ON plan, but better than falling of the wagon completely!

We have had the church providing some meals, my dad brought pizza out for lunch, I baked some bread and even some choc chip cookies... but I haven't had even a smidgen of any of that. I am so thrilled that my self-control is better! :-)

I exercised this morn!

Quite proud of myself, I am. :-) I got up and did my T-Tapp while b'kfast was cooking and before the kids got up. The DVD did end up cutting out on me before the end, so I tried to remember what was next. I will try the other DVD tomorrow.

Weight loss is kinda at a stand-still right now so I am trying to get it moving down again.

I am supposed to be able to add back a lot of foods tomorrow which is the 9 week mark, but I may not add everything back - I plan to adjust to low carb from here... will type out a game plan soon.

Inches lost!!!

This is me happy dancing! :-) I measured last night and I have lost 3.5" from my waist and 3" from my hips/buttocks. Hooray!

Update

I have been sticking to the eating plan quite well. I am pleased! I have lost 25lbs now total, I think a few more are about ready to shed - they tend to tease me for a few days, popping off and on before staying away.

I have not been doing as well with my water drinking for 2 weeks now. I am going to work on that this week as I am sure it will help. I also am not getting my hot baths in each night. I'd like to start exercising soon also, still haven't figured out the DVDs and how to do it.

Otherwise, I think we are just chugging along... my clothes are starting to fall off of me, which is great - but not sure how to go about getting new or altering what I have. Need to think on that before I have nothing left in my closet.

I need to remember to take some measurements and add a waist loss ticker. Tom also wanted to do some pictures along the way and we haven't taken any yet (do NOT expect to see them posted - at least not yet, lol).

Medical Study for PCOS

A friend gave me a flyer about a study being done for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome at the University of Virginia. I talked to Tom about it and then e-mailed for more information which was followed by a phone interview. The study is being done to determine if acupuncture is helpful to those with PCOS. I would get free treatments (real or placebo?), free testing/diagnosis, $170 (will just cover gas), and some meals. Right now, they have decided that I qualify enough so far to send me the info packet and then call in a week to see if I am still interested after reading all the details. I am a bit nervous about the blood tests (not real crazy about that for various reasons), and I will have to stop the estrogen and progesterone creams that I had just begun using (they could influence the results), it is also almost an hour drive to Charlottesville... so things to consider there. It is a 5-month long study, but I am uncertain right now as to how often treatments and evaluations are done. So please pray for Tom and I as we prayerfully consider this. Thank you!

He is proud of me!

Tom told me tonight that he is proud of my weight loss and and proud of me for sticking with the eating plan for so long. Feels sooooo good! :-)

Good food, lots of water and many vitamins

An example of a meal for me...

Happy Dance!!!

There are now officially 20 pounds less of me! Woo hoo!!!!!

Why Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis?

Hair analysis measures the levels of 21 minerals and toxic metals in a sample of hair. Hair contains minerals that are deposited as the hair grows, though the hair is dead the minerals remain. The body uses the hair for storage and elimination of minerals.

An analysis like this one reflects the long term metabolic activity as it measures an average of mineral accumulation over a three month period of time. This is an advantage as the test results are not affected by day-to-day variations in body chemistry due to stress, diet or other factors. The results can identify mineral patterns that can be associated with several different health issues.

I was absolutely astounded when I received my first analysis results. It lined up perfectly with the issues I knew I had, symptoms I was having, and problems I suspected. In my experience it has been very accurate and informational.

Hair Analysis Results

I got my results in last Thursday. I have had basically no change since I did the test 2 years ago. I am surprised it isn't worse, honestly, based on how poorly I have eaten/rested since our business opened. However, it was kinda hard to see all of it in black & white again. Here are the levels, first is my level and second is the level I had last test, and third is the level I should have.

Nutrient Minerals
Calcium - 13.0 - 14.0 - 40
Magnesium - 2.0 - 2.0 - 6
Sodium - 2.0 - 2.0 - 25
Potassium - 1.0 - 1.0 - 10
Iron - 1.3 - 1.5 - 3.5
Copper - 1.9 - 1.9 - 2.5
Manganese - .015 - .015 - .04
Zinc - 17.0 - 16.0 - 20
Chromium - .097 - .101 - .12
Selenium - .057 - .053 - .18
Phosphorus - 14.0 - 14.0 - 16.0

Toxic Metals (all should be 0)
Lead - .047 - .053
Mercury - .018 - .010
Cadmium - .003 - .001
Arsenic - .007 - .012
Aluminum - .62 - 1.29 - 0

Additional Minerals
Nickel - .032 - .029 - .10
Cobalt - .001 - .001 - .04
Molybdenum - .002 - .003 - .11
Lithium - .001 - .001 - .2
Boron - N/A - N/A - .2

Significant Mineral Ratios
Ca/Mg - 6.5 - 7.0 - 6.67
Ca/K - 13.00 - 14.00 - 4.00
Na/Mg - 1.00 - 1.00 - 4.17
Na/K - 2.00 - 2.00 - 2.50
Zn/Cu - 8.95 - 8.42 - 8.00
Ca/P - 0.93 - 1.00 - 2.50

I am a SLOW Oxidizer on both reports.

Oxidation Rate

My analysis says that I have "Significantly Slow Oxidation" - what does that mean?

"Oxidation Rate" refers to the burning of foods in the body or how the body converts the foods you eat to energy. A slow oxidizer is an individual who metabolizes food at a rate slower than that required for the production of optimal energy levels to adequately perform basic body functions. In slow oxidation the activity of both the adrenal and thyroid glands is less than optimal. Slow oxidizers often experience some degree of fatigue, lack of energy, sugar cravings, low blood sugar levels, constipation, weight gain, dry skin and depression.

Stress and Energy / Glandulars

I am in the exhaustion stage of stress . This occurs when the body has exhausted its energy levels in an attempt to contain the stress. In this stage, the body no longer has the necessary energy reserves to resist or contain the stress and is now in a holding pattern to prevent a further decline in health. Symptoms may include fatigue, depression, apathy, despair, constipation, dry skin and hair, adrenal exhaustion and at times less than optimal thyroid activity. This is a common stage of stress for adults today.

I have a pattern of diminished cellular adrenal glandular activity due to chronic stress, toxic metals, nutrient deficiencies, fear or other stree related factors.. Diminished adrenal gland activity may contribute to symptoms of fatigue, exhaustion, depression, mood swings, and PMS.

I also have a cellular thyroid effect which is outside the optimal range. May contribute to fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, brittle hair, depression, a tendency for infections, low blood pressure and low blood sugar. Common causes are the presence of mercury, copper, and chlorine toxicity, impaired adrenal activity, nutrient deficiencies, and chronic stress.

Four Low Electrolytes

This mineral pattern occurs when the electrolytes, calcium, magnesium, sodium and pottasium are all less than the ideal values. Dr. Paul C. Eck determined that patients with this mineral pattern did not respond as well as other patients. This mineral pattern is often associated with chronic fatigue and sometimes allergies. It is a chronic stress or 'burnout' condition that necessitates a special approach to balancing body chemistry.

This mineral pattern is analogous to being on a treadmill you can't get off or in a car with its wheels stuck in the mud. This results in using up a lot of energy, but accomplishes little. These individuals are often used to working hard and are rather compulsive about work or physical and mental activities.

The most important recommendation for someone with this mineral pattern is to rest the adrenal glands. The recommended diet and supplement program will provide the necessary nutritional support. However, correction also depends on getting more rest, reducing both excess activity and compulsive/negative thinking and avoiding or limiting stimulants such as coffee, cola drinks or excessive exercise.

Low Sodium/Potassium (Na/K) (Inversion) Ratio

A sodium/potassium inversion is the single most important imbalance on a hair tissue mineral analysis. This indicates a reduced vitality and impaired electrical balance within the cells. Sodium is an extracellular element while potassium belongs inside the cells. A decrease in the ratio indicates a loss of potassium into the interstitial spaces as cells are destroyed.

This low ration is often associated with adrenal exhaustion, infections and impaired sugar and carbohydrate tolerance. The body is unable to burn glucose properly to produce energy and begins to cannibalize body proteins. This is not only inefficient, but may contribute to many detrimental conditions. The pattern is also associated with liver and kidney stress, allergies and impaired digestion. Balancing this ratio is a major focus of your recommended dietary, supplement, lifestyle and detoxification program.

Dietary Patterns

I have moderately impaired sugar and carbohydrate intolerance. Excessive intake of carbohydrates has been shown to upset the balance between calcium and phosphorus and between calcium and magnesium and can lead to development of many health conditions.

My analysis also indicates impaired protein synthesis. Adequate protein synthesis is vitally important for the regeneration of all body tissues. This requires proper digestion, absorption and utilization of proteins. It also requires adequate levels of zinc and micro-nutrients. Is influenced by the amount and type of protein consumed and one's eating habits.

I also have impaired digestion. If digestion is impaired, even the best diet will not supply the body with needed nutrients. Additionally, improperly digested food will ferment or putrefy in the intestines and produce extremely toxic chemicals that are then absorbed into the body. Proper digestion depends on one's diet, eating habits, energy levels, digestive enzymes, bowel flora and the condition of the intestines.

Nervous System Patterns

I am in a predominately parasympathetic state. The autonomic nervous system regulates many functions in the body and consists of the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches. The sympathetic branch activates the brain, muscles and the thyroid and adrenal glands which enable the body to respond to stress. During the day, one primarily uses the sympathetic nervous system which is associated with expending energy and is catabolic, breaking down body tissues.

The sympathetic branch is balanced by the parasympathetic branch which is associated with the nurturing and regeneration of body tissues. The parasympathetic branch also enhances digestion and the elimination of toxins. This branch is restful, conserving of energy and is anabolic or builds up new tissue. Healing requires that one spend sufficient time in a parasympathetic state to permit proper digestion, elimination of toxins and rebuilding of the body. One is more parasympathetic when sleeping, resting, or relaxing.

When in a parasympathetic state it is due to the exhaustion of the sympathetic nervous system, which causes the body to shift to an unhealthy parasympathetic state to allow for some degree of healing and regeneration. General causes for this state include nutrient deficiencies, toxic metal excesses, excessive activity or mental patterns such as worrying, fears, anger or resentments.

To balance the autonomic nervous system, additional rest is required and it is important not to push yourself or work too hard as these activities stimulate the sympathetic nervous system.

Supplements beginning today

From Endo-Met
Paramin - specific levels of D3, Cal/Mag/Copper and Boron - 3B, 3L, 3D
Limcomin - A, C, B6, Cal/Mag/Copper/Zinc/Manganese - 2B, 2L, 2D
Megapan - Manganese, Chromium, Potassium, PABA, pectin, lecithin, bioflavonoids - 1B, 1L, 1D
GB-3 - Bile, Pancreatin, Dehydrocholic acid, Black Radish - 1B, 1L, 1D
Nature's Sunshine
Licorice Root (for adrenals) - 2B, 2L, 2D
Protease Plus (digestive enzymes, minerals) - 2 daily between meals
Yeast/Fungal Detox - 2B. 2L, 2D
Melatonin Extra - 1 / 1 hour before bed
Twin Lab
Norwegian Cod Liver oil - 2B, 2L, 2D
Emerita
Estrogen cream - phytoestrogens - small dab first thing in AM entire month
Progesterone cream - before bed, starting small right after menses and increasing through month, stopping during menses

Progesterone

I started using 1/4 tsp Emerita progesterone cream this morning - oops! just saw my notes that I should do that in the evening. So, switching to that now. Willcontinue for 2 weeks or until menses,

Goals for this Week

Diet is going well, choosing the "yes" foods is super easy after the last few weeks. I have now lost 14 lbs and am feeling pretty good. I haven't done well with exercise, really low on energy the last few days - don't know if it's from bleeding for so long or if I am getting sick or what. Need to do better though.

Tom is going to start Mon waking me up and helping me make sure I am out of bed when he is in the mornings. I want to have b'kfast with him and quiet time in the mornings when it is still quiet. So that is my goal this week.

I am now taking 2 Cal/Mag, 2 B-Complex, and 1 Yeast/Fungus Detox at each meal and the Melatonin at night. I have realized that if I take the Melatonin and then work on relaxing, I actually do fall asleep pretty fast - but if I keep working then I push through it and it doesn't work.

So goals for coming week... up with Tom, Quiet time in AM, Continue with Supplements, Skin Brushing and Hot Bath at night before bed (after Melatonin)!

HFS visit

Went to see Lina today and got a hair analysis done. It will be 2 weeks before results are in. My last one was 2 years ago so I am curious how things are compared to then.

I also asked her about the progesterone and estrogen creams... she said to take the estrogen, just a tiny bit days 1-7 of cycle and then the progesterone days 14-end. The estrogen should be taken in the mornings and the progesterone at bedtime. If menses is scant, then up the progesterone the next time.

Good news!

I have now officially lost 10 pounds! HoOrAy!!!!!

Also, AF has finally left the building. :-)

Yeast Detox diet has begun

After another night with a headache and me avoiding the salt water for fear of more severe reactions, I have decided that the Master Cleanse is too harsh/fast for me right now. I hope to do it and other cleanses again soon - but for now am moving on to the Yeast Detox diet from Life Force. I stocked up on meat, fruits and veggies and am going to also watch my portions. This is a 16-week program and I look forward to seeing more pounds melt away!

Cleansing Update

Okay, I have been working on a colon cleanse this week and it has definitely been... cleansing. I have been a bit more tired, achey, and many other signs of detox so I haven't posted here. There have been a couple of nights this week where I have felt like I was detoxing too fast so have had a bit of dinner to slow down so I could keep up with life. I know it would be better for me in the long run to just let it run it's course and spend a day or two in bed, but come on - who has time for that? :-) So, in general doing well. Have lost 7lbs. Still cycling but I think finally reaching the end. Have not replaced my T-Tapp DVDs yet, but to be honest, haven't tried real hard either since I've been tired. I AM encouraged that I am doing as well as I am considering I have been fasting the majority of the last 17 days. I am feeling a bit of a need to refocus, feel like I've started concentrating a lot on the physical and don't want to lose sight of the spiritual needs too - so will work on that in days coming. That's about it for now!

Good News / Bad News - A needed update

Okay, like I mentioned I started my cycle and so this Friday when I got a great report from my friend that I've been praying for, I decided that due to feeling weak and to celebrate answered prayers, I would go ahead and take a break from fasting for the weekend again. Tom and I actually went out for dinner by ourselves on Saturday! It was lovely - and yummy! Back on track today. GOOD

I have been enjoying my Bible studies and prayer times. I am seeing growth there for sure and thank God for that. Would like to increase / concentrate my prayer times more still, so working on being able to do that. GOOD

I have been doing poorly with getting to bed on time and getting up early. I have done it a few times, but not consistently. BAD

I am not taking my Melatonin as needed - thinking about setting an alarm clock to go off each evening! BAD

Exercise - well, was doing okay and enjoying it the few times in a row I did it - but then my DVDs quit playing. I need to try them on my laptop, if that doesn't work I will start using my gazelle and just order the T-Tapp DVDs. BAD

I am feeling okay, still feeling heavy, yeasty, itchy, achey - not sleeping well and feeling pretty run down still. Hope to get some improvement soon. I am pretty glad that my womb is cleaning out well this time - last was so sporadic. I have to see hope in that! Oh, my face has been breaking out like crazy and my hair is more oily, ick! I have also noticed that my face has been itchy almost daily. Hoping this is detox/cleansing symptoms.

Guess that's about it for now... that's where I am right now!

Cleansing

Okay, so call me crazy... I prob'ly am!

I have done 3 days fasting, 2 days off, 5 days fasting, 2 days off, and started fasting again today. Tomorrow, I will continue fasting but will add in the Master's Cleanse to clean out my colon - I will do this for 10-21 days, we'll see how it goes. I started tonight with Smooth Move tea and will start drinking the lemon juice with maple syrup and cayenne tomorrow with lots more water and a salt flush first thing in the mornings. This means also that I will be giving up my coffee starting tomorrow! :(

The oil pulling is interesting, and pretty gross. I started tonight and will try to do it each evening. Basically, you swish a Tbsp of oil around in your mouth for 20 minutes. I will give it a few weeks and see what happens.

After I am done with the Master Cleanse, I will switch to the Yeast Detox which takes 16 weeks to complete and should seem super easy after the rest of these.

In the summer I plan to do a kidney cleanse also with lots of watermelon and water.

The last few days

I haven't taken the time to post but wanted to get in an update. I have been doing okay, kept up the fast all week so far and exercised twice. Best of all, I have been spending more time in prayer and reflecting on Bible readings. Things have been busy and stressful with work, but doing better today. I started my cycle again! It's only been 3 weeks, so I don't know what that is all about but better shorter than longer I'd say. I thought I was going insane yesterday and today and then discovered why... whew! Glad there was a reason I was crying and angry and just basically going nuts.

I did it!!!

I finally got off my butt and exercised tonight. I actually did the T-Tapp Basic Workout plus Hoedowns, which I hadn't done before and I think I will definitely be feeling it tomorrow... which will remind me to exercise again! :-) Hooray me!!!

Confessions...

I have done poorly this weekend, for several reasons. We had our annual company dinner Friday night, which I knew about before I started the fast and decided that I would just plan to make an exception for. We had a great time but Saturday morning was also day 10 of my Amish Friendship bread, so I baked it that morning and was weak - very weak. The major reason though was that I was not supporting my weak flesh through prayer. I am restarting tomorrow morning and will be doing the 2 weeks all over again. I am sorry Lord for making promises I didn't keep, I am sorry to my dear friend for committing and falling short, and I am sorry for failing myself. Please pray for my strength in the coming weeks?

On Fasting...

Matthew Henry says that...

"Fasting and prayer are proper means for the bringing down of Satan’s power against us, and the fetching in of divine power to our assistance. Fasting is of use to put an edge upon prayer; it is an evidence and instance of humiliation which is necessary in prayer, and is a means of mortifying some corrupt habits, and of disposing the body to serve the soul in prayer. When the devil’s interest in the soul is confirmed by the temper and constitution of the body, fasting must be joined with prayer, to keep under the body".

Day 1 Report

I did pretty well today I think. I got up at 7:15 this morning and enjoyed some coffee and conversation with Tom before he left for work. It hasn't been hard to avoid food since my appetite is so messed up anyway. I spent time reading the Bible and a bit of time in prayer - need to increase that tomorrow. I did NOT exercise though!!! I just realized that... uggh! I did drink several glasses of water and I took some Cal/Mag and a Melatonin this evening. I am falling asleep as I type this and it isn't 11 yet - so that is encouraging! Will check in again tomorrow.

Why is it that...

... every other day I am not hungry until late afternoon/evening. But today, the first day of my fast, my stomach is growling as soon as I crawl out of bed??? LOL!

... it is so easy for the calendar year to change and start afresh? I took down last year's calendar and looked through it, filled out the b'days and anniv's in the new one and hung it. I was jealous of the ease of "starting fresh" as I so want that in me, to be wiped clean and have new habits and a new start. I suppose that even the calendar days have "scars"... there were some days with memories of deaths and sad happenings in with the birthdays and other good things. The point is to remember but move on, press forward and be able to look back on a year full of change for the good.

... food is such an addiction for us? We have to eat to live, it is a purely necessary function. God also gave us the joys of flavors and colors and smells - but why do we have to take it to the levels of sinful gluttony?

Fasting

I am fasting and praying the next two weeks, not only for my health and a baby, but also for a dear friend who is going through a horrible time in her marriage. I am praying for her lost husband who needs the Lord and for her strength as she prays for him and forgives him day after day, believing that God can save their marriage.

Goals for Week One

First Steps - to take as long as needed (time will vary).
(See whole list in left margin)

Spiritual - Blog notes after daily Bible reading.
Sleep - In bed by 11pm, lights out before midnight. Out of bed at 8am.
Eating - Liquid fast for 2 weeks Jan 2-15.
Exercise - T-Tapp More 5x per week.
Supplements - Melatonin @ 8pm and B Complex 2 / 3x daily.