Today someone in my networking group said that it was National Headache Month.  I thought to myself that’s interesting, maybe I’ll write about that!  When I went to see what the National Health Information Center had to say… no national headache month was listed for September. How bizarre.  This business professionals entire marketing focus is about headaches this month, but it’s not a recognized category at the national library ??  Maybe it’s from some OTHER listing or something. 

Gosh – how embarrassing.

My actual topic of the month for September has nothing to do with headaches and is not recognized by any particular authority except me, you’ll read more about that tomorrow. It’s a good one.

Since I have an absolutely doosey of a headache right at this very moment - mine crept up at about 4 this afternoon,  I thought maybe my occipital muscles were trying to inspire me – they are not even close to being inspirational – they just hurt 

Headaches have many components that contribute to their existence. Years ago I got different kinds of headaches when my blood sugar dipped too low – that was actually more often than not.   I had those for several years. I was a non aspirin, non tylenol kind of girl so I just was crabby all the time.  Supplements helped me tremendously back then.

My headache today is a reaction that happens occasionally when I get chiropractic care or trigger point therapy. It was intense when she poked around and when I left I knew I would get one – had I iced when I got home it could have helped. I iced my hand instead and then the phone rang . Well you know how it goes from there.

If I didn’t have 6 car accidents I might not have this concern. 

My doctor says muscles remember and that I have a lot of memories and trauma there. Chiropractic is really awesome for headaches.

From a getting better perspective it’s been a month since my last. I am actually quite pleased to say that! ( I had a car accident again 5 months ago)

By tomorrow I will be fine.

Headaches are tragically common.

When I work with clients we talk about patterns, reoccurrance and what triggers them – most folks who have a headache will tell you exactly what sets them off

I often suggest that we explore these concerns:  

congested colon
a need to detoxify
weight loss / release of toxins
poor eating habits
aspartame ingestion
carb addiction
hormonal shifts
stress
cortisol deficiencies
chemical exposure
perfume exposure
 
Just to name a few.

There are many nutritional supplements that can assist with the above in some way or another. It’s really pretty cool. This is the exciting part of my work and why I love it so much.

If you or someone you know suffers from headaches I’d love to help.

wonderful, arty photo montage flickr image credit – it’s a doosey

K a r e n     H a n r a h a n
Wellness Educator/Nutritional Consultant
Mentoring YOU to Health Success
 
Websites:
Nutrition
Weight Loss

Member of BNI – West Suburban BNI: “Chapter Mentor”
Member of West Suburban Women Entrepreneurs www.wswe.org
WSWE Board Member and Programming Chair

 

For many who are allergic to ragweed…late summer can become unbearable – let us help!

Typically allergy over the counter products treat symptoms, but nutritional approaches attempt to address more the causes of allergic reactions. According to naturopathic physician Diane Petoskey, allergies can be caused by an abnormal immune response or, surprisingly, by poor digestion and a toxic lower intestine secondary to an over- growth of Candida yeasts and pathogenic bacteria; she recommends the following nutrients for relief from allergy and sinus problems.

Natural interferon – Developed and extensively tested by immunologists in Japan, contains an exclusive, proprietary blend of natural plant extracts from pumpkin seeds, safflower flowers, plantago seeds, and Japanese honeysuckle flower buds, which has been clinically proven to support and stimulate the natural immune response process at the cellular level. Supports and stimulates the immune system, by increasing the activity of macrophages and inducing natural interferon production. Optimizes immune response against environmental irritants and airborne substances (as with allergies and asthma). Completely safe – no adverse reactions to these plant extracts have ever been recorded.

Echinacea- Features standardized extracts of Echinacea, Black Elderberry, and Larch Tree with immunonactive arabinogalactans to stimulate the body’s natural resistance during seasonal challenges. This product also contains zinc, which is known to help support healthy immune function. ( taken occasionally )

Sustained Release Vitamin C All natural, complete complex, sustained means that it releases vitamin C without shellac. It helps the body produce white blood cells to fight infection and prevent illness. It acts as a natural antihistamine, anti-oxidant to protect cells from degenerative disease. Vitamin C is depleted by stress, infection, illness, fatigue, surgery, pollution, temperature extremes, smoking, and alcohol.

Garlic - This popular herb has been used for centuries as a natural decongestant and a natural antibiotic. Often recommended for congestion, asthma, sinusitis, allergies and ear infections…also beneficial in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. Increases white cell count; also acts as an anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial. The Premium Shaklee Garlic has all the potency of fresh, raw garlic without the odor.

Immune System Nutrients -  Scientific research has identified micro-nutrients in the diet that contribute to maintaining a healthy immune system. All of these are found in This signature combined nutrient formula. This product reduces frequency, severity and duration of illnesses; speeds wound healing; reduces allergy symptoms and strengthens the immune system. This capsule contains 9 nutrients all found to be essential for the immune system, excellent for people with allergies, weaker immunity and/or high stress.

Alfalfa - Known as the “Father of all Foods”; grown without fungicides, bactericides, synthetic hormones, growth regulators or chemicals. Contains large amounts of chlorophyll, source of trace minerals. Acts as a natural antihistamine, natural diuretic and digestive aid. Some historical uses: sinus problems, allergies, hayfever, swelling pain and stiffness in joints, ulcers, stomach ailments and hiatal hernia.

Acidopholus-Bifidus This advanced colon care system contains Bifidus and Acidophilus, essential friendly bacteria that ideally live in our lower intestines. These good bacteria are absolutely necessary for the health of your gastrointestinal tract and urinary tract. They help balance bacterial growth, maintain healthy yeast levels, help digest food and assist in the production of B vitamins. Counteracts the side effects of antibiotics. This product is the only company that can guarantees live delivery of Bifidus and Acidophilus to the colon.

Indoor Air Purifier - Many people with allergies are reporting improvement in their symptoms by reducing irritants and toxic substances. We recommend an Indoor Air Purifier. Ours cleans 3000 square feet in your home or business. Exclusive technology

ragweed seeds flickr image credit – like wow man

K a r e n     H a n r a h a n
Wellness Educator/Nutritional Consultant
 
Websites:
Nutrition
Weight Loss

Member of BNI – West Suburban BNI: “Chapter Mentor”
Member of West Suburban Women Entrepreneurs www.wswe.org
WSWE Board Member and Programming Chair

While this isn’t the Topic of the Month – I tossed it in that category.

This week I spoke at an Aging Well meeting on the topic of Diet and Supplementation.  It’s a conversation very dear to my heart.  Since selling supplements is actually how I earn my living, any opportunity to share my 13 years of expertise is a good thing.

The senior crowd was small, but enthusiastic. Every single person in that room took at least a multi-vitamin, others took the basic C and E, some folks were also on track with some sort of essential fatty acid. How cool is that ? I asked them how do they decide which vitamin to take? Most of them replied that they read something about what to take in Readers Digest. Since when is Readers Digest any authority on supplementation? I thought Readers Digest was bathroom reading material – no offense – but that is what we had in the bathroom growing up! All of the attendees were on some form of medication. 1/2 the room was on more than 5.  None of them were doing anything to protect their liver.

Wow – where does a nutritional consultant begin?

The premise of taking a multi-vitamin is very simple – we don’t eat right, we take something to fill in the gaps missing from the typical American diet.

Adding certain additional nutrients is also very valid, but one has to give credence to the scientific community and the ongoing discovery and understanding of nutrients and how they bring benefit to the body. Vitamin C and E are great, yet there are so many other NEW nutrients that are also really great and supported by research that individuals could be taking too.  Vitamin C and E are tried and true, yet they are almost like yesterday’s news.

Sources of nutrients — like where to buy them,  is usually where people really don’t understand. There is a huge difference between something you get at Costco vs something  purchased from a truly devoted and quality driven supplement company.

I like to ask lots of questions. I like to ponder the alternative approach to those meds one might be taking, or better yet the preventative approach should someone know that their family health history dictates a pre-disposed disposition to a health challenge. I like to have my clients consider that their body will appreciate a superb quality supplement or two in a way that shows up in things like; stronger immune function, productive bowels, high energy and vitality and more.

I also advocate more than just supplements because everyone knows that what you eat is equally of value. We all know the good, the bad and ugly about what we eat. This is when I like to gently introduce the design of substandard foods and the addiction factor. One really doesn’t need those cookies. You just like them, want them — in your mind you might even think you must have them. What if you were addicted to them? The premise of not eating them for a period of time to see if you can live without them is one approach. See what happens. Your body will tell you.

Years ago I had the privilege of working for Whole Foods – they are the largest purveyors of what I call the alternative market. Or simply stated: choice. The store doesn’t spoon feed it to you – you still have to be a conscientious consumer, you still have to choose wisely. Yet they are the ultimate in giving choices in the food arena.  When I  personally was getting into all that they were an answer to a prayer.

I also speak to moving the body, and most of us are just not doing that enough. Movement of some form each and every day. Not rocket science

The triage of well being: healthy diet, exercise and supplementation.

I have a virtual consulting practice. I do great phone!  I quote and follow up via email. I run a paperless office.  I don’t get paid for the commute. My time depending on your needs is fee based, with a rebate towards product, if that is something you decide to do. Pretty casual.  I am vastly resourced, thorough, will prod compliance ( why by the stuff if your not going to take it ) and pride myself on my customer service and educating of the consumer.

If you can’t tell I adore my work! It’s interesting, vibrant, it gives me the chance to help others and I get to work from my home – probably the best part of all.

Perhaps I can be of help to you?

I look forward to Mentoring YOU to Health Success

vibrant floral flickr image credit

K a r e n     H a n r a h a n
Wellness Educator/Nutritional Consultant

Websites:
Nutrition
Weight Loss

Member of BNI – West Suburban BNI: “Chapter Mentor”
Member of West Suburban Women Entrepreneurs www.wswe.org
WSWE Board Member and Programming Chair

 

Got the urpy burpy, too many barbecues or too much travel blues?

Your tummy ache solutions could include these medicinal herbs:

Acidopholus/ Bifidus: Travelers diarrhea is more common than one might think – This particular brand guarantees half a BILLION live beneficial bacteria directly to the small intestine. A balance of healthy bacteria has been shown to boost the body’s natural defense capabilities. ( see detailed commentary below )

Peppermint/ Ginger: Perhaps you get an upset stomach from driving, flying or boating.  Plan ahead for motion sickness. Using a blend of herbs including peppermint and ginger this product will ease motion sickness and it’s accompanying queasiness and nausea.

Senna: Constipated?  The herb Senna, which has been used for thousands of years is a natural laxative.  Senna and several other herbs provide a gentle and effective colon flush – it does not cause “emergency” trips to the bathroom – just a gentle encouragement of the muscles of the colon to get things moving again. This product is a “signature” formula for this particular company.

Plant based digestive Enzymes: Gassy? Bloated? Enzymes assist the digestion of all the foods you eat – many enzyme products are animal based – but this brand is  a multi action plant based product – better digestion means better absorption of your food.