Food Allergies | Food Intolerances |

The Effects of Milk and Milk Products

2011-12-05T10:12:00.002-05:00

Empirical evidence about the effects of milk and milk products on my clients:

In my holistic nutrition practice I test people for food intolerances and more than 90% of my clients have tested intolerant to milk products. After eliminating milk products from their diet they have experienced: lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, less asthma, no eczema, no more chronic colds or sinusitis, no more need for tubes in the ears, less headaches, less ADD, less menstrual cramps, greater ability to conceive, less intestinal distress, and more!

In the mean time milk is being promoted as nutritious and the milk industry is not only a huge force but it is also backed by government funding.

Some people say that the clients I see are more sensitive than the general population ... and I say "isn't it wonderful?". Miners used canaries to give them a sign when they were in danger and there are many people giving us signs too!

Wishing you vibrant health,
Monica

Juicing: A creative way to get your nutrients

2011-12-03T17:05:00.002-05:00

by guest writer Allison Brooks

Juicing: A creative way to get your nutrients

Many people today don’t understand how food really works with our bodies (or at least I didn’t). Most know that there are healthy foods, processed foods, fuel foods, and then those fast-foods, but not everyone knows how those foods work with our body. It wasn’t until the documentary, Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead, came out that I learned what phytochemicals, lycopene, and other foreign words were. But after some research I learned how these natural chemicals interact with our body to promote healthy function, and that all my “natural” foods weren’t so natural anymore.

Many of these natural mixes and chemistry-knowledge have led many naturopathic and homeopathic practitioners to produce immune booster to help the body during its weakest times. These range from common cold remedies, to post-workout relief, and to more serious issues like cancer. This does not mean that these juices cure cancer, but instead aid the body and keep it strong during very intense conventional treatments. Many doctors see that benefits from these natural juices and have recommended patients with a cancer prognosis, to practice juicing with specific recipes or take classes to learn the helpful components of each ingredient. This is not only a healthy addition for patients, but it also gives them a sense of control when life might seem out of their reach.

So today, I have listed a couple of yummy recipes to spur any cleanse, detox, immune boost, or just healthy treat. Best part the prep time is just a matter of seconds. Hope you enjoy!!

Day After Thanksgiving Treat:

This juice is a healthy way to use some of those turkey-day leftovers.

Ingredients:

1 cup cranberries
1 orange, peel removed
1 apple
1 cup butternut squash, cubed
4-6 leaves collard greens (about 1 cup, packed) Directions:

Wash produce well
Juice
Pour over ice
Sprinkle cinnamon on top of juice

Enjoy!

Hawaiian Getaway

This juice has actually been studied, and used in cancer hospitals to give patients a healthy boost and delicious treat. It is rich in antioxidants and great for digestion, and its a little taste of paradise.

Ingredients:

¼ Pineapple
1 cup blueberries
1 piece for fresh ginger (roughly ½ inch)

Directions:

Wash ingredients
Core and Peel Pineapple
Juice
Pour over or blend ice
Sprinkle coconut on top for an added island feel.

More daily juice ideas can be found at the Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead website.

Gluten-Free Shortbread Recipe

2011-11-26T10:09:00.006-05:00

Now that the American Thanksgiving holiday is finished everyone is starting to think about Christmas. Are you still deciding what to give to your loved ones for Christmas? How about some gluten-free shortbread cookies? A homemade gift is special and can save you money.

These gluten-free shortbread cookies are the best if:

you form them with a cookie press
you use the very fine rice flour that you can find at Asian grocery stores (the picture is below but it will probably cost between $1.50 and $2.50 at your local Asian store - the same holds true for the tapioca starch)

Gluten-Free Shortbread Cookies

1 1/2 cups butter
1/2 cup honey
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups white rice flour
2 cups tapioca starch

Preheat oven to 300oF.
Cream together the butter, honey and vanilla extract. Gradually add the rice flour and the tapioca starch.
Pass the dough through a cookie press onto an ungreased cookie sheet, or press into an ungreased cookie sheet with your hands such that the dough is approximately 1/2" thick.
Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until gold around the edges. If you didn't use a cookie press, cut into squares while still warm. Let the cookies cool before removing them from the sheets.

This gluten-free shortbread recipe is in one of my food allergy cookbooks "Monica's Desserts and More" and on my member website www.joinmonica.com.

Foods to Eat and Avoid for Someone with Anxiety

2011-11-25T08:35:00.008-05:00

By Ryan Rivera

Have you ever experienced becoming a slave to the whims of your own anxiety? To be commanded by a mere feeling whether real or imagined? To be attacked by this horror at the most unexpected moments of your life? Well, I used to. For 7 years, I battled with my anxiety demon.

I do not know how it started. One day, it just hit me. I was doing carpentry one late afternoon and then the attack came. And as fast as it came, it stopped. I was so confused with what just happened. I went to Google to make sense of it all. Then my search led me to the culprit: MY DIET.

Why? It is because I have no family history of anxiety disorders; I have no major troubles in my life; and I have never been exposed to any traumatic event. So, I realized it must be my diet. And I was right. My diet’s lack of nutritional value and my choices being more on the greasy, salty, spicy, and sugary variety triggered my anxiety attack.

My poor food choices made me into who I am today: anxious, troubled and depressed. And since my conscience dictates me to eat healthier, I compiled a list of some of the foods I can and cannot eat. If you are an anxiety sufferer such as myself, read on and learn something.

Foods to Eat

1. Salmon

Salmon, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, helps keep anxiety levels in check. The omega-3 it contains helps to decrease inflammation in the body and serves as an important part of cell membrane and nerve synapses.

2. Yogurt

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences last August 19, 2011, suggested that a few scoops of yogurt may be able to relieve stress, anxiety and depression. In this study, researchers found that probiotics or “good bacteria” in yogurt may have the ability to change some neurotransmitters in the brain which can alleviate stress, anxiety and depression.

3. Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes help fight stress and anxiety as it is a good source of magnesium, a natural relaxant and anti-stress mineral. It helps keep the arteries, bones, heart, muscles and nerves healthy and in proper function. Aside from this, sweet potatoes also contain vitamin B6, C, D iron, and potassium which are significant for increased immunity to diseases and improved overall health.

4. Broccoli

A diet rich in broccoli strongly impacts the body’s detoxification system. With three glucosinolate phytonutrients working in combination, this trio helps reduce oxidative stress and increase antioxidant capacity of the blood. Aside from this, it also contains flavanoids that lessen inflammatory diseases of the body.

5. Avocado

Avocado is rich in tryptophan which aids the brain in the utilization of the essential “feel-good” hormone serotonin. This hormone helps relieve stress and insomnia, reduce the frequency of headaches, and ward off symptoms of depression.

6. Dark Chocolate

Researchers are recommending that eating 1.4 ounces of dark chocolate bar each day for the next two weeks may help people feeling stressed out improve their mood and reduce stress hormones. This effect is accounted to dark chocolate’s richness in antioxidants called flavanoids.

7. Almonds

Loaded with B and E vitamins, almonds help bolster the immune system so that the body will become more hard-wearing against illnesses at times of great physical and mental stress.

Foods to Avoid

1. Sugar

Excessive amounts of sugar found in sweets and pastries can cause a swing in blood sugar levels making one more hyperactive and emotionally unbalanced. To avoid making anxiety symptoms worse, you must always determine the sugar content of what you're eating. Read food packages to be certain.

2. Coffee

Coffee contains caffeine, a known stimulant of the central nervous system. It causes a spike in energy and an increase in heart rate that can lead to panic attacks. Because it is one of the major causes of anxiety, people experiencing anxiety attacks must cut back on their daily coffee consumption.

3. Processed Food

Preservatives and additives found in canned and processed foods can cause anxiety attacks. They deplete potassium levels in the body which is essential for nervous system function.

4. White Flour Products

White bread and other white flour-made products should be avoided by those suffering from anxiety. These foods deplete the body’s vitamin B1 or thiamine levels. Thiamine helps reduce mental confusion as well as irritability symptoms, thus improving brain function. Good sources of vitamin B1 include wheat germ and molasses, whole grains, and organ meats.

5. Alcohol

Excessive amounts of alcohol can affect the levels of serotonin in the brain. When this hormone is reduced, the body becomes more susceptible to the effects of stress, leading to anxiety and depression conditions.

Poor dietary habits and wrong food choices will definitely catch up with you soon. Not giving enough attention to what you eat will greatly compromise your health. To save you a lot of trouble, try picking healthier food choices.

Ryan Rivera provides free informational materials about anxiety and panic attacks on his website, www.calmclinic.com.

Call Monica Levin, 248-656-2505, for a holistic nutrition appointment to determine your food intolerances and get you started on your specialized diet.

Thanksgiving Wheat-Free Carrot Cake

2011-11-22T17:53:00.008-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to you! Just in case you do not have enough to do in preparation for your Thanksgiving Feast, maybe you would like to consider making a wheat-free carrot cake? Actually, it is a wheat-free carrot-almond cake. Yum! I am not a fan of cinnamon so you will not find any in this recipe.

Wheat-Free Carrot Cake

In a bowl mix together:

2 cups barley flour
2/3 cup ground almonds
2 tsp baking powder
pinch of sea salt
2 cups finely grated carrots

In another bowl mix together:

3 eggs
1/3 cup olive oil
2/3 cup maple syrup
1 tsp almond extract

Mix together all ingredients and pour into a buttered 9" springform pan (or cake pan). Bake at 350 degrees F until done (30 to 50 minutes?), when it springs back to the touch.

I hope that you enjoy your wheat-free carrot cake! I like mine topped with a bit of vanilla Rice Dream Frozen Dessert.

Click more food allergy cookbooks.

Medical Community and Food Intolerances

2011-11-14T08:34:00.002-05:00

Results of a survey indicated that people feel that their symptoms (that they feel are connected to foods) are treated dismissively by health care professionals.[1]

These results are disturbing because according to the Journal of Nutritional & Environmental Medicine at least one-fifth of the population suffers from some form of allergic disease; that is a conservative estimate. One in ten children suffer from eczema and currently 15% of children in the UK are breathless or have asthma. Food intolerance causes or exacerbates many conditions; for example, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, urticaria, atopic eczema, rhinitis, asthma, hyperactivity and rheumatoid arthritis. According to this article approximately 50% of all patients attending a gastroenterology clinic suffer from IBS and half of these respond to a simple elimination diet. Many of these conditions also respond very well to the elimination of simple foodstuffs with complete relief from symptoms. In addition it was found that diet and nutrition also play an important part in hyperactivity and delinquency.[2]

Unfortunately traditional medical diagnostic tools are not accurate in diagnosing food intolerances. The scratch test is inaccurate for testing foods [3] and the IgE/IgG4 antibody testing is unreliable.[4]

Fortunately all is not lost in the medical community, at least in the United Kingdom. Nurses ran food intolerance clinics in South London, Glasgow, Norfolk, and Birmingham in which patients were put on a two week healthy-eating diet. This proved to have a beneficial effect on more than 50% of the patients. Patients who did not feel better were put on a two week wheat and dairy-free diet after which nearly half (49%) felt that their symptoms improved. In summary, more than 70% of the patients felt markedly better.[5]

If you have health issues and do not find support or solutions in the medical community do not lose hope. There are many websites that provide complementary and alternative evaluation of food allergies and food intolerances.[6]

[1] GP: General Practitioner; 1/26/2007, p26, 1p

[2] Journal of Nutritional & Environmental Medicine, Dec97, Vol, 7 Issue 4, p319, 2p

[3] Haas, Dr. Elson, The False Fat Diet, The Ballantyne Publishing Group, 2001, p 149

[4] Clinical & Experimental Allergy; Dec98, Vol.28 Issue 12, p1526-1529, 4p, 5

[5] Practice Nurse, 2009 Feb 13; 37(3)

[6] Journal of Consumer Health on the Internet; 2003, Vol. 7 Issue 1, p81, 7p, “Alternatives in the Treatment of Food Allergies”

Is Your Body High in Acid?

2011-08-16T13:04:00.006-04:00

According to Dr. Morter in his book “Dynamic Health”, “Your body is alkaline by design and acid by function. Yet the overall acid [acidity] level must remain slightly alkaline.” The exception to this is acid that the stomach produces for digestion.

Acidity is Measured with pH

The term pH describes the acidity or alkalinity of a fluid and is expressed as a number between 0 and 14. The pH of an acid is between 0 and 7 while the pH of a base (alkaline) is between 7 and 14. Neutral, or balanced, fluids have a pH of 7. Here are a couple of examples: distilled water is neutral with a pH of 7, vinegar is acid, and bicarbonate of soda is alkaline.

The Body

Since the body works best when it is slightly alkaline, it uses its resources to keep itself alkaline. The body is able to eliminate some of the acid through the lungs. The remaining acid needs to be neutralized with minerals, such as organic sodium and calcium, and eliminated through the kidneys. Once the body has used up its mineral stores acid levels rise and become a breeding ground for disease.

The body produces acid ash in the following ways:

Cells: The cells of the body produce small amounts of acid which can be eliminated through the lungs
Foods: If you are consuming too much protein your body will produce acid ash. Examples of acid producing proteins are: milk, poultry, lamb, beef, pork, and fish. Some grains also produce acid ash: wheat, oats, rye, and barley.
Emotions: When you are feeling pain, anger, rage, frustration, judgment, lack of freedom, and restricting beliefs your body will produce acid ash.

The body produces alkaline ash in the following ways:

Foods: Fresh fruits, vegetables, and millet produce alkaline ash and replenish the body’s mineral stores.
Emotions: Alkaline ash is produces when you feel happiness, joy, and bliss.

Symptoms Related to Excess Acid

Excess acid in the system produces both short term and long term symptoms including: osteoporosis, kidney stones, arthritis, gout, fibromyalgia, and other inflammatory conditions.

What to Feed Yourself

Alkalinize your body and build your mineral stores by eating lots of vegetables and fruits in order to.
Reduce the amount of protein in your diet. Small amounts of animal protein (milk, pork, lamb, beef, poultry, and fish) can be good, but excess amounts create acid ash in the body. What is the recommended amount of protein? Only 47 grams (1.7 ounces) per day!
Find out which foods are best for you through food allergy testing.
Finally, be as happy as you can be in order to produce less acid ash. Release judgment, anger, and restrictive beliefs. Forgiveness, appreciation, and gratitude are powerful emotions!

Food Allergy Testing Methods

2011-08-15T16:37:00.000-04:00

If you have arthritis, diarrhea, gas, constipation, headaches, fibromyalgia, muscle cramping, skin problems, exhaustion, menstrual discomfort, ADD, ear infections, chronic sinus infections, post nasal drip, eczema, asthma, muscle pain, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, hypoglycemia, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or mood swings then consider going to a food allergist for food allergy testing. Amazing as it may sound eating foods that your body does not want creates imbalances in the body and symptoms of disease. Trust me, it is more effective to eliminate a couple of foods than to take medications, supplements, herbs, or homeopathics.

Common Food Allergy Testing Results

The most common foods to come up in the food allergy testing results are: milk and milk products, wheat and wheat products, corn and corn products, and refined white sugar. Other foods that are common to be indicated in food allergy testing results are soy, oranges, peanuts, pork, and chicken.

Food Allergy Testing Methods

There are many food allergy testing methods, including: elimination diet, medical blood test, muscle testing, and Applied Kinesiology. While all of these food allergy testing methods can yield you the results you need, they all require that you go to a healthcare practitioner. If you would like to be able to determine which foods you need to avoid why not asking your intuition (inner guidance, angels, guides)?

Food Allergy Testing Method: Inner Guidance

Your physical body is the vehicle through which your angels and guides communicate. As your body feels better, you feel more of your inner “yes” (expansive, empowering) and “no” (contractive, depleting) answers. It is these “yes” and “no” answers that lead you.

When I first started to feel my inner guidance I would practice following their instructions by going “adventuring”. When I had a spare hour or two I would get in my van and start down the road. My guides would indicate with “yes” and “no” answers which way to turn and when. They would lead me to interesting places and would even take me shopping! You must understand that shopping is definitely not my favorite activity, so any help was appreciated. For example, one time they lead me to the exact pair of shoes I needed, eliminating the time and frustration that I associate with trying on many pairs.

Would you like to feel your inner “yes” and “no”? Find a quiet, comfortable, and private place where you can sit and relax. Close your eyes and take four or five deep vreaths, filling both your abdomen and chest.

First, remember a time in your life when you felt like a “nothing”. We have all had this experience. Perhaps a scene will appear in front of your eyes, or perhaps some words such as “what are you getting so upset about”, “don’t be so ridiculous”, “would you stop crying, it’s driving me crazy”, or “you sure are stupid”. Wow! Notice how this makes your body feel! My energy contracts, my body feels smaller, I feel a lump in the pit of my stomach. This is my “no”.

Second, remember a time in your life when you know that you were the most beautiful creature on the planet (which you are), a time when you felt completely loved and safe. Imagine it. Notice how your body feels. My energy expands, my body feels larger and stronger. I feel like I could stand at the top of a mountain and I could stretch my arms over eternity. Wow! This is my “yes”.

Now you can use the inner “yes” and “no” answers to communicate with your inner guidance. Ask questions and pay attention to the feeling in your body. What answers are being communicated to you? Try asking the following food allergy questions:

Do you tell me to stop eating wheat and wheat products?
Do you tell me to stop eating milk and milk products?
Do you tell me to stop eating corn and corn products?
Do you tell me to stop eating refined white sugar?
Do you tell me to stop eating soy?
Do you tell me to stop eating peanuts?
Do you tell me to stop eating oranges?

Have fun with it and start listening to your body!

For help with your food allergy testing contact Monica 248-656-2505

Holistic Exercise

2011-08-09T15:28:00.001-04:00

What does “holistic” mean? Holistic means that you consider something as a whole, knowing that all aspects are interconnected and interrelated. When we take a holistic approach to human health we know that the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual are all connected. This is powerful to know because it means that as you treat the physical body it will affect the mental, emotional, and spiritual bodies. Here is an example: when you avoid eating your allergic foods you feel better physically (reducing or eliminating symptoms of disease) and you will also feel more emotionally balanced and happy, more spiritually connected, and more mentally clear and sharp. Now you can leverage the knowledge that all bodies are connected when you are deciding what exercise to do.

When it comes to choosing the kind of exercise consider what you want to experience on the other levels (mental, emotional, and spiritual). Here are a few examples of exercises and what they mean holistically:

Lifting Weights: Lift weights if you want to become mentally stronger, more emotionally resilient, and strengthen your spiritual connection.

Walking, Running, Jogging: Walk, run, or jog if you want to leave past hurts behind, move forward in your life, or embark on a new project.

Yoga, Pilates: Do exercises that strengthen your core when you are learning how to set your spiritual and emotional boundaries.

Judo, Karate, Tai Chi: These exercises strengthen your core and your balance. They are good for when you are learning how to set your emotional and spiritual boundaries.

Swimming: It is time to “go with the flow” and lighten any emotional weight you have been carrying!

Stretching: Stretching makes you more flexible physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Stretching helps keep your mind pliable and open to new ideas.

Partner Dancing (leading): Traditionally men take the role of leader in partner dancing (ballroom, Latin, swing). If you are a man and want to improve your leadership skills then learn to dance.

Partner Dancing (following): Traditionally women take the role of follower in partner dancing (ballroom, Latin, swing). If you are a woman and want to learn to increase (and follow) your inner, spiritual guidance then learn to dance.

What form of exercise do you enjoy doing?

Wishing you vibrant health,
Monica

Stress Caused By Intensified Energy Shifts

2011-07-30T13:49:00.000-04:00

At this time the energetic shifts on our planet have intensified and everyone on the planet is feeling the effects. The effects are evident on many levels: globally (wars and genocide), societal (business dismantling and economic restructuring), familial (divorces and family members dying), and individually (physical and mental health). Since all change and transformation begins with the individual, it is time to look at what is going on inside and learn how to help yourself and empower yourself.

The energetic and information downloads have intensified in the last few months. Our brains are changing, demanding that the body manufacture chemicals to handle the energetic and electrical attunements and the process of opening to psychic abilities. The brain runs on neurotransmitters which are responsible for cognitive functioning, motivation, drive, energy, focus, attention, relaxation, perception, and more. A majority of these neurotransmitters are manufactured in your gastrointestinal tract. So as your brain changes there is an increased demand on the gut to manufacture neurotransmitters by extracting nutrition from your food. If you are not eating the “right” foods then you will not produce enough neurotransmitters, resulting in conditions such as inability to concentrate, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more.

How you feel also affects your ability to produce the neurotransmitters that your brain needs. If you have issues with personal power, are not acknowledging your personal empowerment, or are giving your power away to someone else (for example your mate, a family member, your boss, the legal system, or the government) then the solar plexus chakra will not function well. This malfunctioning solar plexus chakra translates to a malfunctioning digestive system and you won’t be able to gather and produce all of the brain chemicals that you need.

Balance Your Brain Chemistry

It is time to balance your brain chemistry; you will feel great if you do! Here are couple of suggestions:

Balance your digestive system by avoiding your allergic foods. Everyone has foods that nourish their body and foods that do not. Get tested for hidden food intolerances and avoid consuming foods and beverages made with your allergic foods. Your brain will thank you!

Boost your immune system in order to support your solar plexus chakra and make it easier to claim your power and be true to you. To boost your immune system avoid your allergic foods (yes, I just said that) and take some supplements to boost your immune system. My favorite immune system boosting supplements are: Optimal Cell Support, Medicinal Mushrooms, and Glycobalance.

Help

Schedule an appointment for food intolerance testing with Monica Levin and she will also test you and determine which immune system boosting supplement is right for you. 248-656-2505

Note: appointments available in Wixom Michigan or over the telephone.

Scientific Correlation between Junk Food and Food Addictions

2011-07-23T16:21:00.001-04:00

Studies have found that rats that are addicted to an unhealthy diet of junk food will die of starvation rather than return to healthy eating habits.

The journal Nature Neuroscience published a three-year study which demonstrated that a rat's response to limitless amounts of junk food imitates the patterns of drug addictions, including changes in brain chemistry.

During the initial study, the rats were fed a balanced diet or an identical diet plus limitless junk food bought at supermarkets. The junk food included processed lunchmeats and sugary cakes. In a short amount of time, the rats allowed to eat junk food took in twice the amount of calories as the balanced diet rats and gained weight quickly.

Rat Food Addiction Mimics Drug Addiction

Recreational drugs stimulate a person's brain pleasure areas, especially the dopamine receptor. When this receptor is overly stimulated, it causes the body to produce less dopamine and the person needs more of the drug to get the same the repeated effect. In the study, the rats had the same reaction to the junk food.

To test the rats’ adaptation to dopamine, researchers attached the rats’ brains to a device that would stimulate the dopamine receptors as they ran on a wheel. The rats on the junk food diet ran on the wheel notably longer than the rats eating a normal diet. This indicates that the junk food rats' receptors had become desensitized. This desensitization happened after only five days of eating the unhealthy diet.

"They're not experiencing rewards the way they should," the researcher said, "When you experience that, one way of feeling better is to go back on the junk food; They lose control. This is the hallmark of addiction."

The researchers conducted a second test in order to verify their addiction theory. They blocked the dopamine receptors in the healthy rats by using a virus, and those rats, too, began to eat obsessively. The researcher stated they now have, "the most complete evidence to date that suggests obesity and drug addiction have common neurological bonds."

More about Food Addictions

The results from the next study stunned the researchers. They found that when their junk food was replaced with healthier rat food, the junk food addicted rats refused to eat for about two weeks, voluntarily starving themselves.

Nutritionist Sandy Livingston states, "Certainly, we see this addictive pattern in humans. They know they shouldn't overeat, but they do it anyway." Livingston stated that she hopes that the biochemical part of addiction to food may result in less guilt and judgment that goes along with obesity. "A lot of people blame themselves, asking 'Why don't I have any willpower?'”.

Monica Levin, holistic nutritionist and expert on food sensitivities, said "When people consume their allergic foods they can experience food addictions. Just as the rats in would rather starve than eat healthy food, a lot of people would rather continue to eat their allergic foods than heal themselves of their asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure, or fibromyalgia."

The Benefits of Exercise Outweigh The Effort

2011-07-22T18:05:00.002-04:00

Okay, those of you who know me understand that I do not like to “exercise”, only because of the negative connotations that “exercise” has in my mind. However, I do LOVE dancing (please do not give me the argument that dancing is exercise) and I find it very mentally and emotionally beneficial.

Why should you exercise?

Not only can exercise help you to lose weight, stay healthy, improve your heart, and help you look better but it is also an excellent way to improve both your mood and the way your brain functions.

Exercise Reduces Stress

Exercise can help reduce stress. When you exercise, you boost the levels of key chemicals in your brain such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine which all help you to feel more relaxed.

Exercise Helps Learning

Exercise increases the level of brain chemicals called growth factors which are responsible for making new brain cells. Research shows a direct correlation between kids exercising and an improvement in their grades.

Exercise Improves Self-esteem and Body Image

Exercise is goal oriented and getting faster, fitter, slimmer and stronger can improve your overall self-esteem and body image.

Exercise Helps You to Feel Good

Exercise releases cannabinoids in the brain that make you feel good, often referred to as the "runners high".

Exercise Increase Brain Functioning

Researchers at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago found that exercise slows the rate of dying brain cells. In addition, when you exercise, you allow the brain to make more brain cells

It's Time to Exercise

When exercising, you are quite literally encouraging your brain to grow more beneficial cells. It's important for everyone to get exercising (whatever form of exercise that you enjoy) because every time you exercise you are getting a little bit smarter and possibly much happier.

Wishing you vibrant health,
Monica
_____________

Monica Levin is a holistic nutritionist and tests her clients for food intolerances.

Dressing Up for a Kids Party - Clowns, Magicians and More!

2011-07-18T16:23:00.002-04:00

Kids have the most amazing imaginations and a high level of trust and enthusiasm. If someone shows up at their birthday party dressed as a superhero, prince, princess, clown, cowboy, cowgirl, television character, rock star, magician, or belly dancer they immediately want to participate in the fun.

I found someone who dresses up as different characters and clowns for kids parties in LA California. I am sure that there are clowns for hire and actors for hire all over, but the actors at Create a Kids Party are the best!

The founder of Create a Kids Party is Helene Udy. After years of acting on television, she discovered that she loves personally interacting with children. Helene started as a clown for hire and after a short amount of time had to hire other actors to help with the kids parties.

For more information about magicians clowns entertainment for kids parties visit www.createakidsparty.com.

Drinking Water Contaminated by Prescription Drugs

2011-07-18T09:30:00.002-04:00

The other day I saw something disturbing in a movie: the character flushed prescription medications down the toilet. How dangerous is that?

March 2008, Washington Post: "Pharmaceuticals, along with trace amounts of caffeine, were found in the drinking water supplies of 24 of 28 U.S. metropolitan areas tested."

Our drinking water is contaminated with prescription drugs. They easily enter the drinking water system and are difficult to remove. They enter the water system in two ways: First, when humans and livestock eliminate waste, they excrete some of the active components of drugs that the body didn’t absorb; this waste goes into the ground water or through sewage pipes and eventually makes its way to sewage treatment facilities and then back to our drinking water. The second way that prescription drugs infect our drinking water is from people flushing prescription drugs down the toilet.

Prescription drugs in the water pose a great concern as we can be exposed to many drugs at once and subject to their side effects. In addition, the federal government doesn't require any testing and hasn't set safety limits for drugs in water. The cost of screening for drugs is high and although some cities screen for one or two pharmaceuticals, the rest pass through undetected.

Even if you drink bottled water you are not necessarily safe from exposure. Bottled water companies do not typically treat or test for pharmaceuticals, according to the industry's main trade group.

According to water experts, the best way to remove pharmaceutical drugs and other toxins from water is by passing the water through a reverse osmosis filtering system.

Reverse Osmosis Filtering System

Reverse osmosis filtering systems pushes water through a semi-permeable membrane, allowing pure water to pass through and stopping contaminants that are too large to pass through the tiny pores in the membrane. The pores in the membrane are so small that, in conjunction with carbon filters that are usually included in reverse osmosis filtering systems, most contaminants are removed. Here is a partial list of contaminants removed by a reverse osmosis filtering system: aluminum, arsenic, barium, cadmium, chloride, chromium, copper, fluoride, magnesium, iron, lead, manganese, mercury, nitrate, selenium, silver, sulfate, zinc, asbestos, particulates, total dissolved solids, turbidity, radium, volatile contaminants (VOCs), benzene, MTBE, trichloroethylene, trihalomethanes, radon, bacteria, viruses, salts, sugars, proteins, particles, dyes, heavy metals, chlorine and related by-products, and other contaminants.

Disposing Pharmaceutical Drugs

If you need to dispose of pharmaceutical drugs take them to a hazardous waste collection facility. Some communities offer hazardous waste collection a few times a year, so call your city offices to find out.

Wishing you vibrant health,

Monica (food allergist)

Nuts and Berries for Your Brain

2011-07-17T16:57:00.000-04:00

Eating unhealthy food and being exposed to toxic chemicals and pollutants reduces the brain’s ability to protect itself from inflammation and oxidative stress. Research shows that consuming fruits and raw nuts help the brain stay healthy. Fruits such as acai berries, blueberries, strawberries, and nuts, such as walnuts, contain antioxidants and other important natural healing compounds.

This recent study found that berries and walnuts trigger one of the brain’s mechanisms that clears out and recycles toxic proteins that are connected to memory loss and other symptoms of mental decline.

These renegade proteins that accumulate in the brain add to cognitive dysfunction and memory loss. Antioxidants, which are present in berries and in fresh raw nuts, help clean up the proteins, which improves nerve function and help protect the body against heart disease, degenerative brain conditions, cancer, and other diseases.

What Are Antioxidants?

Antioxidants are vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that help to protect the body from free radicals. Free radicals are atoms and molecules which can damage cells and lower the immune system, leading to infections and degenerative diseases. Free radicals can be formed in your body by metabolic processes as well as when you are exposed to radiation, toxic chemicals (food additives, rancid oils, cigarette smoke, pollution), and the sun. Some antioxidants are vitamin A, beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, melatonin, alpha-lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10, pycnogenol, resveratrol, grape seed extract, cysteine, glutathione, zinc, superoxide dismutase, methionine reductase, catalase, and components present in ginko biloba and green tea.

Research and Antioxidants

Shibu Poulose, with the U. S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging in Boston, reported “The good news is that natural compounds called polyphenols found in fruits, vegetables and nuts have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that may protect against age-associated decline.”

Research showed that laboratory rats showed an increase in learning capacity, memory, and nerve function after two months of consuming a diet consisting of 2% high-antioxidant blueberry, strawberry or blackberry extracts.

Add These Foods to Your Diet

Fruits and vegetables that have deep, strong colors such as blue, red and orange contain the most antioxidants, especially berries such as acai berries, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and currants. Experts recommend eating a broad range of various colored vegetables and fruits and fresh raw nuts such as walnuts to get a wide assortment of antioxidants. In off seasons turn to foods such as frozen berries, which are available year round and an excellent sources of brain boosting antioxidants. If you are not sure which foods are best for you, find someone who can test you for food intolerances.

Wishing you vibrant health,

Monica

Antibiotic Resistance, Candida, and Lowered Immune System

2011-07-17T16:53:00.000-04:00

The United States Department of Agriculture confirmed that antibiotic use in the livestock industry makes people who consume the meat antibiotic resistant. John Clifford, the chief veterinarian at the USDA, testified that the use of antibiotics in animals “does lead to some cases of antimicrobial resistance among humans and in animals themselves.” It is through the overuse of antibiotics that “super bugs” have appeared. Both the Food and Drug Administration and the USDA are working toward reducing, and possibility eliminating, the use of antibiotics in animals. I am not convinced that such large organizations are motivated to elicit the change that we so badly need. I believe that it is up to us, as consumers, to make choices with our spending dollars to impact change.

Why Antibiotics are Overused in the Livestock Industry

Livestock businesses use antibiotics to make the animals grow faster and to treat sick animals.

According to professionals, giving antibiotics to animals will fatten them quickly. Livestock business owners administer antibiotics to their animals to increase profits without any regard for the health of the animals or the humans who eat them.

The second reason that animals are given antibiotics is because they get sick. Animals are raised in feedlots in which the conditions are confined and unsanitary. These conditions are not natural; the animals’ immune systems become compromised and they get sick. Rather than treating the animals with antibiotics only when they get sick, antibiotics are administered as a “preventive” measure.

It is all about the money. Corporate agriculture subjects the animals to antibiotics because it is profitable to turn out drug-filled meats that they are able to grow quickly.

Animals raised in areas with a lot of open space are much healthier than those raised in cramped quarters. Animals raised in pastures get fresh air and sunshine, are allowed to grow at a natural rate, have better immune systems, and get sick less often.

Garlic Granules Instead of Antibiotics

Holistic Nutritionist Lise Colley, who practiced in Waterloo Ontario, counseled local Mennonite farmers to add garlic granules to animal feed. What happened? When the farmers added garlic granules to the animal feed the animals remained healthy.

How to Maintain Your Health

Every time you eat antibiotic laden meats you get a dose of antibiotics. This does not keep you healthy and it can result in antibiotic resistance as well as an overgrowth of candida in your system. When you ingest antibiotics they alter the micro flora in your gut, killing the good bacteria and allowing candida to flourish. What is the solution?

· eat drug-free, organic, free-range meats
· Get tested for food intolerances and avoid those foods in order to improve digestion and boost your immune system
· Drink pure water, because chlorinated water kills the good bacteria in your gut
· Take some immune system boosting supplements

Wishing you vibrant health,

Monica

Aspartame and Aspartame Dangers

2011-07-15T17:10:00.002-04:00

Diet Coke and My Civil Engineering Degree

While I was studying to obtain my civil engineering degree (1982-1987) I discovered something that intensified my interest in natural health. I went to the student union building at the University of Waterloo in Ontario and bought a can of diet coke. After removing the can from the soft drink dispenser I noticed that there was a warning on the side of the can. It said “Caution, may cause deviant behavior in adolescents”. I was astounded! If it can cause deviant behavior in adolescents, what happens to the rest of us? I did not drink the can of Diet Coke and I have never bought any since. Shortly after that time, the warning was removed from Diet Coke cans.

1981: Aspartame’s Beginning

Aspartame is an artificial sweetener and it was approved by the FDA in 1981. It has been the most intensely disputed FDA food additive approved in our history and with good reason. This sugar substitute is poisonous and has been damaging the health of thousands.

Within only three years of its approval, aspartame sweetener consumption had reached 6.9 million pounds per year. The number continued to increase and in 2003, the statistics available from Forbes Magazine that were based on estimates by Tate and Lyle and stated, aspartame dominated 55 percent of the market.

Aspartame is in …

Aspartame.org calculates that diet sodas make up about 70 percent of the aspartame ingested daily. Every 12 ounce can of diet soda contains 180 mg of aspartame, and diet soda drinkers consume an average of 200 mg each day. On the other hand, it's not easy to determine the exact amount of aspartame people ingest because the amounts vary by brands and flavors - some brands may actually contain twice as much as others.

The Aspartame Debate Is Ongoing

Dr. Roberts states, "Concerned scientists and researchers fought and were successful in keeping aspartame out of the food supply for over ten years, ever since it was first considered as a potential food additive, and many of those still alive continue to speak out against it today. "

The FDA has investigated the research on aspartame after suspecting falsehoods in the studies. The stories of mix-ups and faulty research only add to the questions concerning the safety of aspartame for human consumption and its debated approval.

The Approval of Aspartame by the FDA

How did such a dangerous chemical obtain FDA approval? Dr. Roberts explains, "In the case of aspartame, it sure does look as though it was a conspiracy -- by G.D. Searle Co., to get a tremendously profitable product to market, no matter what the potential cost in terms of human health."

Independent research done on aspartame concluded there are potential health hazards. Dr. Roberts states, "92 percent of the independently funded studies identified at least one potential health concern," while, "100 percent of the industry funded studies supported aspartame's safety."

Adverse Effects of Aspartame

Not only is aspartame addictive, but according to Dr. Mercola the adverse effects of aspartame include:

· Multiple sclerosis (MS)
· ALS
· Memory loss
· Hormonal problems
· Hearing loss
· Epilepsy
· Alzheimer's disease
· Parkinson's disease
· Hypoglycemia
· AIDS
· Dementia
· Brain lesions
· Neuroendocrine disorders
· Headaches/migraines
· Nausea
· Abdominal pains
· Fatigue
· Sleep problems
· Vision problems
· Anxiety attacks
· Depression
· Asthma

Is it worth risking your health to consume aspartame?

Is There A Safe Alternative To Sugar?

After over 20 years of testing my clients for food allergies I have found that most people can tolerate small amounts of raw honey or maple syrup while everyone seems to do well using fruit as a sweetener.

Wishing you vibrant health,

Monica

There are Many Toxic Chemicals in Our Breakfast Cereal

2011-07-15T15:38:00.003-04:00

Cereal lovers are unknowingly consuming many toxic chemicals, including a chemical called 2-methylnapthalene. Methylnaphthalene is a petrochemical that is, "a constituent of petroleum, automobile exhaust…waste water from coal gasification, coke and shale oil production" as well as other sources. This chemical was in Kellogg cereals such as Froot Loops, Apple Jacks, Honey Smacks and Corn Pops, released when sealing the wax paper with heat.

When the FDA received complaints from consumers who said that they could taste and smell the chemical in their cereal (some even got sick) they started an investigation. In June 2010 twenty-eight million boxes of Kellogg cereal were recalled by the cereal company. The FDA asked what went wrong. Kellogg explained that the chemical went into the cereal from the wax paper liners and the FDA ended their investigation.

The Toxicity of Methylnaphthalene is Unknown

Methylnaphthalene is one of thousands of chemicals that are presumed safe under the Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976, almost all of which have not been tested for human safety. Doctors do not even know how to treat people who are exposed to such chemicals.

What You Can Do

It seems that almost all food packaging materials pose some sort of health risk, including aluminum and plastics. Glass, however, is completely safe and does not leak any dangerous chemicals into your food; unfortunately it is expensive and is breakable.

Cannot Rely on the FDA

We cannot rely on the FDA to protect our health; we have to take action ourselves. Here are a few breakfast suggestions that are safe and simple:

Make your own granola and eat it with rice milk or almond milk.
Make hot cereal (please choose the organic varieties) such as cream of rice, oatmeal, barley flakes, and quinoa.
Eat fresh fruit with some nuts.
Eat dinner leftovers.

The Best Breakfast For You

In order to determine which breakfast is best for you, get tested for food sensitivities.

Food Allergies as a Contributing Factor of Disease

2011-07-06T05:49:00.004-04:00

If you have an illness or disease it just means that you are out of balance. There are many factors that can take you out of balance: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. Here are a few examples:

Physical: eating foods that you are allergic to, drinking beverages that you are allergic to, doing a kind of exercise that your body does not want, not doing enough exercise, not getting enough sleep, where you live, and even how you have your furniture arranged.
Mental: thoughts that you are thinking, and lack of intellectual stimulation.
Emotional: choosing to not be happy, i.e. believing in fear, anger, revenge, and other emotions that do not feel good.
Spiritual: ignoring your inner voice, or inner guidance.

Hidden Food Allergies

The main physical factor which contributes to disease are hidden food allergies. Each person has foods that their body does not want, or reacts to, and these are called loosely called food allergies (also referred to as food intolerances and food sensitivities). When you are ingesting these foods your body uses its energy to try to get rid of them rather than using its energy to stay healthy. Hidden food allergies can be the root cause of many diseases including asthma, earaches, leg pains, ADD, ADHD, stomach aches, canker sores, diarrhea, headaches, moodiness, constipation, frequent colds, insomnia, food cravings, fibromyalgia, eczema, dermatitis, colitis, ulcerative colitis, colic, diverticulitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, depression, anxiety, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, arthritis, chronic colds, sinusitis, psoriasis, dry skin, PMS, menstrual cramps, eating disorders, chronic pain, arthritis, chronic ear infections, acne, diabetes, and more!

Food Allergy Testing

You can allow your body to heal by avoiding the foods that you are allergic to. To determine which are your allergic foods you can do an elimination diet, have a medical blood test, or go to someone who does muscle testing (Applied Kinesiology) for food allergies. Of the three methods muscle testing is the least expensive, least invasive, and easiest.

The Healing Process

When you stop ingesting your allergic foods your body will heal itself and return to balance: digestion will work better, muscle and joint stiffness will diminish, breathing will be easier, it will be easier to focus, emotional well-being will increase, and spiritual connection will intensify.

Conscious Eating

2011-07-04T09:19:00.003-04:00

In 2003 I had three month in which the only thing that I could eat without getting sick were apples and raw almonds (I know that it sounds strange). It was during this time period that I realized how much I was using food for socializing, to get approval and love, to fill a void, and to belong. I certainly leaned a lot about myself!

Most people eat unconsciously, meaning that they eat without examining their thought processes around food, and they eat without paying attention to their food. People eat to:

escape their problems
celebrate
have something to do
get approval and love
feel like they belong

This is loosely called emotional eating.

There are ways to deal with situations in which you find yourself engaging in emotional eating. One is to find alternate activities that bring about a sense of fulfillment, community, and/or belonging. You can enjoy music, dancing, nature, gardening, sports, conversation, board games, cards, reading, art, museums, meditation, drumming , massage, and sex (especially with someone you love, including you), to name a few.

Conscious Eating Suggestions

Here are some suggestions for conscious eating, and healthy eating:

call me to be tested for food allergies (248-656-2505) and eat only non-reactive foods.
eat only when you are hungry.
drink water when you are thirsty.
pay attention and notice whether you are hungry or thirsty. People often mix up these sensations so notice and follow through on your conclusions.
avoid eating while distracted by conversation, television, or music.
taste, savor, and enjoy the food you eat.
feel appreciation for the food that you eat.

I hope that you consciously enjoy not only to the food that you eat, but also your glorious life.

Monica

Choosing a Cleansing Diet

2011-07-03T09:42:00.008-04:00

Are you experiencing asthma, earaches, leg pains, ADD, ADHD, stomach aches, canker sores, diarrhea, headaches, moodiness, constipation, frequent colds, insomnia, food cravings, fibromyalgia, eczema, dermatitis, colitis, ulcerative colitis, colic, diverticulitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, depression, anxiety, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, arthritis, chronic colds, sinusitis, psoriasis, dry skin, PMS, menstrual cramps, eating disorders, chronic pain, arthritis, chronic ear infections, acne, or diabetes? Any disease can be helped by cleansing.

How to Cleanse Your Body

There are a number of ways to cleanse your body, including colon cleanses, herbal cleanses, juice fasting, water fasting. the master cleanse, and avoiding your allergic foods.

Colonics: Colonic irrigation can provide temporary relief but permanent relief comes from a lifestyle change.
Herbal Cleanse: Herbal cleansing supplements can provide temporary relief but permanent relief comes from a lifestyle change.
Juice Fasting: Consume only freshly juiced organic fruits and vegetables. Juice fasting can detoxify your body very quickly and be uncomfortable. Juice fasting can provide temporary relief but permanent relief comes from a lifestyle change.
Water Fast: Water fasting can detoxify your body very quickly and be uncomfortable. Water fasting can provide temporary relief but permanent relief comes from a lifestyle change.
Master Cleanse: This cleansing includes drinking only water which has a dash of cayenne, some lemon, and a bit of maple syrup. The Master Cleanse can provide temporary relief but permanent relief comes from a lifestyle change.
Avoiding Allergic Foods: Get tested for food allergies and avoid eating (or drinking) these foods. In this case your body will cleanse at its own rate - no forcing!

Cleansing Diet Recommendation

To heal from diseases a temporary cleanse is not sufficient. It is necessary to change your lifestyle, which includes changing your diet more permanently. Get tested for food allergies and start on your journey to vibrant health!

Food Allergy Diet Reactions

If you have been eating your allergic foods then your body is in toxic overload:

The cells of your body are full of pesticides, herbicides, rancid fats, partially digested foods, environmental toxins, and other toxic chemicals.
Your elimination organs (lymph glands, lungs, colon, liver, kidney, skin) are over worked from years of trying to eliminate all of the toxic substances that you have been ingesting.

When you stop eating your allergic foods your body will detoxify at its own rate. Many people feel better immediately and after three days, three weeks, or three months will have a cleansing reaction. The cleansing reaction occurs because the body is trying to clean itself out. Cleansing reactions can include:

Colon: diarrhea, constipation, bloating
Kidneys: frequent, smelly urine
Lymphatic System: flu-like symptoms including still and sore muscles
Liver: headaches
Lungs: bronchial congestion
Skin: rash, blemish

These cleansing reactions will subside on their oen as you continue to avoid your allergic foods but in the mean time drink lots of pure water, test, and do light exercise and body movement.

Food Allergies and Weight Loss

2011-07-01T17:04:00.003-04:00

Did you know that food allergies, or reactions to your allergic foods, make it easy to gain weight and hard to lose it. They affect your metabolism in five major ways:

1. Food allergies slow down your metabolism because they block the absorption of nutrients. Food allergies will block the absorption of essential fatty acids, which are important in increasing your metabolism. When you block their absorption your metabolism will decrease (or slow) and your body will then be more likely to store fat.

2. Food allergies slow down your metabolism because they block the absorption of nutrients and because they affect your thyroid. Food allergies can make your thyroid malfunction and then you will gain weight.

3. Food allergies increase insulin, cortisol, and eicosanoids that cause weight gain. Food allergies may create more insulin and your body will store more fat. Food allergies may produce less insulin then you will feel hungrier and want to eat more. Food allergies (and stress) increase the amount of cortisol, decreasing the levels of fat-burning enzymes, causing weight gain. Food allergies increase the production of eicosanoids, which inhibit the burning of adipose tissue and ultimately cause weight gain.

4. Food allergies can create hypoglycemia which, in turn, creates food cravings and weight gain.

5. Food allergies make you feel sick and tired. Food allergies can cause asthma, earaches, leg pains, ADD, ADHD, stomach aches, canker sores, diarrhea, headaches, moodiness, constipation, frequent colds, insomnia, food cravings, fibromyalgia, eczema, dermatitis, colitis, ulcerative colitis, colic, diverticulitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, depression, anxiety, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, arthritis, chronic colds, sinusitis, psoriasis, dry skin, PMS, menstrual cramps, eating disorders, chronic pain, arthritis, chronic ear infections, acne, diabetes, and more! When you have any of these symptoms you just don't have the energy or motivation to do what you need to do to lose weight.

Weight Loss Solution

Now that you are more aware of how your body's metabolism is negatively affected by your food allergies the solution is simple: get tested for food allergies and stop eating your allergic foods! Okay, I said the solution is simple but I never said that the solution is easy. To succeed at losing weight you must:

identify your food allergies
eliminate your food allergies from your diet
make your health your priority by making time to shop for allergy-free food and prepare allergy-free food.

Food Allergy Testing Methods

2011-06-30T13:46:00.004-04:00

I have been doing food allergy testing for many years. There are several ways to get tested for food allergies. Some are expensive. Some are inexpensive. Some are accurate. Some are inaccurate. Some are believed. Some are disbelieved.

You might want to consider getting food allergy testing done if you have any of these symptoms: asthma, earaches, leg pains, ADD, ADHD, stomach aches, canker sores, diarrhea, headaches, moodiness, constipation, frequent colds, insomnia, food cravings, fibromyalgia, eczema, dermatitis, colitis, ulcerative colitis, colic, diverticulitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, depression, anxiety, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, arthritis, chronic colds, sinusitis, psoriasis, dry skin, PMS, menstrual cramps, eating disorders, chronic pain, arthritis, chronic ear infections, acne, diabetes, and more!

Food Allergy Testing Methods

Skin Prick Tests: The standard test for food allergies used to be (and often still is) the skin prick test. In this test, suspected allergens are placed on the skin and a prick or scratch is made under the drop. A reaction to the skin is then looked for. Skin prick tests can work for some types of allergens, particularly inhalants, but when the allergen is in a food they do not produce a positive result except when the reaction is immediate and violent.

Medical Blood Tests: This test can be very expensive but some blood tests have accurately diagnosed food allergies. In addition they often are not covered by insurance. If you want a medical food allergy blood test, look for a physician who has a lot of experience in this area to make sure that the test and the interpretation are useful.

Elimination Diet: Finding your food allergies by doing an elimination diet is the most time consuming method but it is also the most economical. In an elimination diet you avoid all (or most) of the foods that you normally eat. If after three weeks your health improves then you know that you are allergic to (intolerant to) something that you eliminated. Reintroduce one of the foods for three days. If you do not react after three days, add another food on the fourth day. If, however, you did react to the food, eliminate it from your diet again until all symptoms subside (5 to 10 days). Keep repeating this process until you have tested all of your foods.

Muscle Testing (Applied Kinesiology): Another test for food allergies is muscle testing (also knows as Applied Kinesiology). This is the method that I use when I test my clients for food allergies and food intolerances. In this method you hold a vile containing a suspected food allergen and I test your arm muscle strength. If holding the vile makes you weaker then you are intolerant to the food and need to stop eating it. If the vile makes you stronger then you are not allergic to that food. This food allergy testing method may sounds strange, but I find that it works! If you manage to suspend your disbelief you will be pleased with the results! Fortunately the cost of being tested for 100 to 120 food items is (as of July 30, 2011) $90.

Call Monica

Call me for your food allergy testing appointment 248-656-2505. You can have your appointment in person (Wixom Michigan) or over the phone.

Food Allergies and Food Allergy Reactions

2011-06-30T13:33:00.002-04:00

I have been doing food allergy testing since 1987. It has only been recently that the idea of food allergies, also referred to as food sensitivities and food intolerances, is more widespread. The medical profession has been talking about lactose intolerance for a while, and more recently gluten intolerance (called Celiac Disease). But Food allergies can affect you in many other ways, affecting the skin, the skeleton, the digestive system, the heart and blood vessels, the airways, the muscles, the kidneys and bladder, and the nerves and brain.

Examples of Food Allergy Reactions

The Skin: read and itchy eyes, eczema, psoriasis, itchy skin, hives, rash

The Skeleton: aching joints, rheumatoid arthritis

The Digestive System: mouth ulcers, canker sores, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, stomach ulcers, duodenal ulcers, diarrhea, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, Chron's disease, infant colitis, colic, itchy anus

The Heart and Blood Vessels: migraine headaches, irregular heart bear, inflammation of veins, high cholesterol, bruising, high blood pressure

The Airways: runny or congested nose, nasal polyps, chronic sinusitis, asthma, ear infections

The Muscles: aching muscles, fibromyalgia

The Kidneys and Bladder: kidney stones, nephritic syndrome, frequent urination, bed wetting, urinary tract infections

The Nerves and Brain: headache, fatigue, depression, anxiety, memory loss, ADD, ADHD, hyperactivity, epileptic seizures, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia

Whole Foods Supplements - Part 4

2010-12-08T11:03:00.005-05:00

Appointment with Dr. Posh

Dr. Posh is the Naturopathic Doctor who founded Nutritional Health Science, a whole food vitamin manufacturer. Call Dr. Posh, 1-877-819-7654, for a FREE mini-phone consultation and receive 10% off and free shipping on your first order of whole food supplements when you tell her that Monica Levin sent you.

Part 4 of "Whole Food Supplements" talks mainly about bone health, prostate health, and supplements for rheumatoid arthitis.

For more information on How to Boost Your Immune System, Dr. Posh, or Monica Levin watch this whole food supplement video.

Whole Foods Supplements - Part 3

2010-12-06T16:46:00.005-05:00

Part 3 of "Whole Food Supplements" talks mainly about the immune system. Without an immune system that is functioning properly, you have nothing. The immune system is your first and foremost defense that your body has to protect you. Listen to the interview below and learn how whole food supplements can boost your immune system.

I must say that I have been taking Medicinal Mushrooms for several months now and I feel very strong. My two 18 year old sons have also been taking Nutritional Health Science's Medicinal Mushrooms and while most of the students at their high school have been sick, they have not!

For more information on How to Boost Your Immune System watch this whole food supplement video:

Whole Foods Supplements - Part 2

2010-12-03T11:44:00.006-05:00

Yesterday I posted Part 1 of an interview I did with Dr. Posh who is the founder of Nutritional Health Science. This whole food supplement laboratory produces superior, effective whole food supplements that are made without any fillers or chemicals.

Please take a few minutes and listen to Part 2 of "Whole Food Supplements".

I love Dr. Posh's supplements and I feel great taking them! A number of my clients have also been taking her whole food supplements, along with following the food recommendations that I have made. On that note, remember that supplements are called "supplements" for a reason - because they are to supplement your diet, not replace it! If you want an appointment for food allergy testing just give me a call to schedule a time in person (Wixom MI) or over Skype: 248-656-2505

Whole Foods Supplements - Part 1

2010-12-02T17:12:00.005-05:00

I have been a holistic nutritionist for over thirteen years and up until recently rarely recommended that my clients take supplements. What has changed? I came to know Dr. Linda Posh MS SLP ND who has advanced degrees in both organic chemistry and cellular biology and owns her own supplement company and laboratory here in the United States. Now, for the first time, my clients are getting the results they want from supplements, whole food supplements! I still believe that eating the correct foods for your body is the first step toward vibrant health and now we have access to whole food supplements to support our health.

In order to better understand why Dr. Posh's whole food supplements are superior, I interviewed her and created four audio files. Below is part one of "Whole Food Supplements" and How to Boost Your Immune System.

Once you have watched it I invite you to watch Part 2 of "Whole Food Supplements".

Robert Crayhon Will Be Missed

2010-09-05T22:00:00.002-04:00

Sunday September 5, 2010

Today I received an email informing me that Robert Crayhon passed away. How sad. He was a brilliant nutritionist and comedian and I was looking forward to attending one of his comedy nights in the future - I guess I should not have waited!

Robert, may you rest in peace.

With love,
Monica

Tulip Festival in Holland Michigan

2010-05-09T21:40:00.004-04:00

I spent May 1, 2010 at the Tulip Festival in Holland Michigan. I believe they call the tulip festival Tulip Time. This was my second time going to the tulip festival and the tulips were beautiful. When I was in Holland MI last year half of the tulips were closed because our spring had been so cold. This year was quite a contrast since our warm spring opened all of the tulips which lined all the streets.

After spending the day at the tulip festival I drove to Saugatuck MI, an artist town, where I had a lovely vegetarian dinner. It can be difficult to find good vegetarian food when I travel through the small towns of Michigan but this time I lucked out. Although Monroe's is not a vegetarian restaurant it has some very delicious vegetarian selections.

Vegetarian food at Monroe's Cafe in Saugatuck MI includes:
Spicy Lentil Chili
Rigatoni with Vegetable Bolognese
Roasted Vegetable Pot Pie
Mushroom and Tarragon Omelet
Grilled Garden Burger
Boursin Sandwich

When I was there my meal had a side salad with raw broccoli and pine nuts that was out of this world!

Unfortunately Monroe's Cafe does not have a website but if you are in Eastern Michigan and are looking for a vegetarian restaurant I suggest stopping in Saugatuck. Yum!

Monroe's Cafe - Grill
302 Culver Street
Saugatuck MI 49453
269-857-1242

For vegetarian recipes become a member of www.JoinMonica.com.

Miracle Mineral Solution Continued

2010-01-26T10:45:00.002-05:00

Okay, so I started taking Miracle Mineral Solution in December. It is suggested that you start by taking one drop activated in lemon juice twice per day and increase until you are taking 15 drops twice per day. The key is to increase it slowly so that you do not get the side effects of nausea or diarrhea. I admit I could not get past 6 drops twice per day and I gave up (only for a week or so).

Is a Low Dose of Miracle Mineral Solution Effective?
I decided that I am in no rush and that I feel good when I take a low dose daily. I was wondering if a low dose of Miracle Mineral Solution would still be effective and I found my answer: yes. I have noticed positive changes in my body even though I am only taking three drops of Miracle Mineral Solution daily. The bonus is that I do not have any negative side effects!

Monica

Robert Crayhon's Latest Book

2010-01-14T10:19:00.002-05:00

In 2001 I attended a nutrition seminar that Robert Crayhon offered in Michigan. I was absolutely delighted with him, his brilliant mind, and his fabulous sense of humor. As a matter of fact, that evening I went to a comedy club with a friend of mine and told him “Robert Crayhon is much funnier than any of these comics”.

Well, today (January 14, 2010) I discovered that Robert Crayhon is coming out with a new book: "The Power of Two Weeks". I am confident that this book is an expression of his comedic genius and I pre-ordered a copy.

I am so excited!

March 15, 2011: Today I was going through my past blog entries and decided to add to this one. I loved Robert's book! As you may notice in a later blog post, Robert Crayhon died in 2010. I am so grateful for having had the opportunity to enjoy his brilliant mind and his brilliant writing.

At the Dinner Table

2010-01-12T18:39:00.005-05:00

Tonight I had a home-made dinner with my two sons. Dinners are quiet when we eat together, each of us in our own thoughts. Once in a while words come out of someone's mouth and a conversation ensues. Tonight the words "I saw my dad today" came out of my mouth, astounding me. In that fraction of a second what I said was the truth, even though my dad died over four years ago.

I am constantly amazed how powerful the mind is. When I knew that I had spent some time with my dad today I felt peaceful. A moment later the thought "he died four years ago" arrived. This second thought did not feel as good.

I know that I saw my dad today and I am happy that we spent some time together. This knowing makes me feel good, and what could possibly be more important than feeling good?

Monica
- and her angel guides!

Baking White Chocolate Chip Cookies to Stay in a Good-Feeling Place

2010-01-10T12:35:00.008-05:00

I know about the Law of Attraction. I know that the most important thing is to feel good. I also know that I have a powerful mind that has a tendency to go toward not-so-good-feeling thoughts. Sometimes I need to make an effort to feel good and that is what I have had to do today.

Today is a day without my kids and I decided to take care of my inner child. I watched the movie Julie and Julia on DVD. I had seen it when it came out in the theaters, after which I was inspired to make a delicious supper. Today I decided to make something sweet: White Chocolate Chip Cookies. I usually make chocolate chip cookies, using dark chocolate chips to avoid extra milk products, but I have one son who does not like chocolate. So I pulled out a package of Sunspire White Chocolate Chips and made phenomenal cookies!

White Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Using a food processor or a blender combine:
2/3 cup butter, at room temperature
2/3 cup raw (organic) sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp sea salt

Slowly add:
2 + 1/2 cups barley flour
1 tbsp baking powder

Mix in by hand:
1 cup white chocolate chips

~ I like to line my cookie sheets with parchment paper (which I reuse) so that cookies do not stick and the cleanup is easy. Put spoonfuls of cookie dough on the cookie sheet and flatten slightly with a fork which has been dipped in hot water.
~ Bake in a 350 degree F oven for 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the size of your cookies.
~ Remove from the cookie sheets and cool on wire racks (if they are not eaten before they cool!).

If you want more recipes you can buy one of my food allergy cookbooks, which are available as soft-cover books or as e-books, or become a member of www.JoinMonica.com.

Holistic Nutritionist Monica Levin

Mind Body & Spirits Rochester MI

2010-01-03T20:11:00.002-05:00

Mind Body & Spirits was not only built to inspire and help people it also has amazing vegetarian food, vegan food, gluten-free food, and organic food.

This Rochester MI restaurant can be called a vegetarian restaurant, vegan restaurant, gluten-free restaurant, or certified organic restaurant. It is located in downtown Rochester Michigan in a 100+ year old building, which was renovated using many of the latest and century old technologies to operate as sustainable as possible.

When I went there I ordered their Vegetarian Root Vegetable Flatbread with their organic gingerale. I have not had a restaurant meal as pleasing as this one in a very long time. When the Root Vegetable Flatbread arrived at my table the energy of it was Divine. All thoughts left my head. The only thing in the Universe was me and my food. The flavor was sumptuous and I could not have rushed, even if I had wanted to. I took my time, enjoying every mouthful.

I am looking forward to my next visit to Rochester Michigan because I will definitely be stopping there for another vegetarian delicacy.

For more information on Body Mind Spirits visit their website www.mindbodyspirits.com.

Monica Levin, holistic nutritionist

Biotics Research Recommendations for Holiday Drinking and Eating

2009-12-16T16:04:00.008-05:00

Biotics Research sent me their supplement recommendations for excessive drinking and eating during the holiday season and I thought I would share them with you:

Holiday Stress Buster
Bio 3BG: 2 tablets, 3x/day
LiZyme Forte: 2 Tablets, 3x/day
ADHS: 2 tablets, with breakfast and 2 tablets with lunch

Overindulging on Holiday Food
Betaine Plus HP: 2 capsules with each meal
Intenzyme Forte: 4 tablets/day
Bio Glycozyme Forte: 2 capsules, 3x/day

Overindulging on Holiday Drink
Bio 3BG: 1 tablets per our before drinking and 1 tablet every hour after you awake
Intenzyme Forte: 20 tablets before you drink and 20 tablets when you awake

To order these Biotics Research Supplements call Monica Levin 248-656-2505.

You can also contact Monica if you are interested in How to Boost Your Immune System with shole food supplements.

Miracle Mineral Solution

2009-11-23T10:48:00.007-05:00

A client came to me for a Reconnective Healing and told me that she had started to take Miracle Mineral Solution. My inner guidance told me to purchase some and take it! First thing I did was search the internet for Miracle Mineral Solution and found a website with a free ebook which explains how Jim Humble came to use Miracle Mineral Solution to destroy pathogens in the body. Jim Humble's website is: www.miraclemineral.org.

I have been taking Miracle Mineral Solution for just over a week. The first thing I noticed is that I can breathe more easily. Other benefits have been increased energy, less thirst, and the diminishment of a long-standing physical symptom.

Jim Humble suggests starting with a very small dose of one drop per day and increasing it slowly. I suggest increasing very slowly because if you increase the dose too quickly it will make you nauseous and give you diarrhea. I know this from experience, the contents of my bowels seemed to turn to liquid but once I eliminated it I felt better. I reduced my dose and I now am increasing it very slowly!

You can purchase Miracle Mineral Solution for less than $20 for a year's supply. Tune into your inner guidance and see if it feels good for you.

Gluten-Free Pasta made from Zucchini

2009-11-02T08:39:00.016-05:00

Food Allergy Cookbooks

This weekend I was giving intuitive food allergy readings at a psychic fair here in Michigan. My neighbor was a woman who does raw food coaching and raw food demonstrations. She had a simple machine which is called the Spirooli Spiral Slicer which cuts vegetables into long, thin strips; like spaghetti! I was so excited that I bought a Spirooli Spiral Slicer from her.

Although the Spirooli Spiral S licer is most commonly used by raw food advocates I like cooked food as well as raw. I came home and made myself Gluten-Free Pasta made from Zucchini. Yum!

Gluten-Free Pasta made from Zucchini:
Here are pictures of what the zucchini looked like when I sliced it using the Spirooli Spiral Slicer, sauteed it with a bit of butter and sliced onion, and then served it with grated Parmesan cheese. It was delicious!

Make Gluten-Free Pasta from Zucchini using the Spirooli Spiral S licer!

More recipes and cooking ideas? Become a member of www.JoinMonica.com.

Who is The Brotherhood of Light?

2009-10-17T22:36:00.005-04:00

Spiritual Channelings

This week I had a conversation with The Brotherhood of Light. It was fabulous! I asked The Brotherhood of Light for a message for me to post on the internet and so I have posted three audio files on my website www.MonicaLevin.com - just go to the channeling page.

Here is the one audio file which answers the question "Who is The Brotherhood of Light?"

Gluten-Free Italian Restaurant Livonia Michigan

2009-10-04T17:32:00.003-04:00

Are you looking for delicious gluten-free Italian food, or better yet a gluten-free Italian restaurant? Well, I ate at Giulio's Cucina Italiana in Livonia MI where I had delicious gluten-free Italian food.

I had a dinner special which included gluten-free noodles as well as the most amazing gluten-free bread, which they sell at the restaurant for those of you who want to bring some home.

I recommend eating at Giulio's Italian restaurant where the menu clearly indicates which items are gluten-free and which items can be ordered gluten-free.

If you would like gluten-free Italian recipes, so you can make your own gluten-free Italian food at home, become a member of www.JoinMonica.com.

For more information on Giulio's Cucina Italiana call them or visit their website:
31735 Plymouth Rd
Livonia, MI 48150
(734) 427-9500
www.giuliositalian.com

Gluten-Free Pizza at Buddy's Pizza in MI

2009-09-28T08:52:00.005-04:00

Do you follow a gluten-free diet? If you are in Michigan there is a restaurant which makes gluten-free pizza!

Buddy's Pizza in Michigan makes delicious gluten-free pizza. In addition they have some alternatives to their normal pizza cheese: lactose-free veggie cheese (which is also low-fat), and fat free mozzarella.

If you want to make your own gluten-free pizza then become a member of JoinMonica.com for a gluten-free pizza crust recipe or purchase my cookbook.

Want to try the gluten-free pizza? Visit Buddy's Pizza at any of these locations:
AUBURN HILLS 2612 North Squirrel Road 248-276-9040
DEARBORN 22148 Michigan Avenue 313-562-5900
DETROIT 17125 Conant Corner 313-892-9001
FARMINGTON HILLS 31646 Northwestern Highway 248-855-4600
DETROIT/GROSSE POINTE 19163 Mack Avenue 313-884-7400
LIVONIA 33605 Plymouth Road 734-261-3550
WARREN 8100 Old 13 Mile Road 586-574-9200
BLOOMFIELD 3637 Maple Road 248-645-0300
ROYAL OAK 32218 Woodward 248-549-8000
or visit the Buddy's Pizza website.

Gluten-Free Nuts by Jemfruit in Michigan

2009-09-04T11:30:00.005-04:00

For those of you who follow a gluten-free diet Jemfruit LLC in Michigan produces gluten-free nuts, but not just any gluten-free nuts, they are gluten-free flavored nuts. Yum!

If you suspect that you might feel better following a gluten-free diet call Monica Levin to schedule an appointment for food intolerance testing 248-656-2505.

Jemfruit endeavors to provide the best tasting fruit topping and gluten-free flavored almonds to make your gluten-free breads, gluten-free desserts, gluten-free salads and gluten-free meals rich, flavorful and healthy. All gluten-free nuts and coated in such a way that no residues will be left on your hand.

Oil is not added to the baking process of the flavored almonds.
Preservatives are not added to extend shelf life.
Sweeteners and salt are kept to an absolute minimum.
Every unit of food that Jemfruit produces is hand made in a licensed kitchen

Jemfruit also has Jem Fruit Spread
Jem is a fruit topping with a very low sugar content. It is frozen for maximum freshness leaving very little flavor change to the fruit. Michigan produces fantastic fruit and Jemfruit is happy to say that their suppliers are all in Michigan!

For more information on gluten-free nuts and fruit spreads contact:
Jemfruit, LLC
1160 S. Van Dyke
Bad Axe, MI 48413
(989) 269-6014
or visit their website: www.jemfruit.com

Meditation Classes and Website Classes in Michigan

2009-08-31T11:23:00.008-04:00

Strange combination, eh? I am offering meditation classes and website classes this fall.

Meditation and Inner Guidance
Meditation is about being open to guidance from your feelings. Learn and practice easy meditation skills with Monica Levin. Monica's CD "Inner Guidance Communication" is included in the cost of the class.
$19, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Intuitive Eating
Learn how to listen to your body and eat intuitively. Learn a meditation to get answers about which foods your body wants. Monica's CD "Inner Guidance Communication" is included in the class fee.
$19, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Creating Content for Your Small Business Website
This class for small businesses or individuals covers"
- how visitors use the world wide web
- how to determine the subject for each of your website pages
- how to write effective content for your site
- what search engines are looking for
Cost: $19 to the city plus $5 to Monica during the class for the booklet "Creating Website Content for your Small Business Website" (also available through http://stores.lulu.com/monicalevin)
$19 plus $5 booklet fee, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Locations:
Birmingham, Brighton, Farmington, Livonia, Wayne-Westland, and West Bloomfield MI.

I hope to see you at a class!
Monica

Environmental Allergies Cured with Honey

2009-08-26T15:32:00.003-04:00

When I was at the Farmington Farmer's Market in Farmington Michigan last weekend I bought honey from a Michigan Bee Farmer. Not only is the unpasteurized honey delicious but the bee keeper's story is interesting:

Mr. Novak of "Novak Sugar Shack" in Davison Michigan started keeping bees to collect their honey because he had environmental allergies. Mr. Novak was going to the doctor for weekly allergy shots when he read that eating honey, collected by local bees, would cure his allergies. He decided to try it and started with two bee hives.

How it is seven years later and Mr. Novak has over 200 bee hives and has not had an allergy shot for seven years. Honey cured his allergies!

If you would like to purchase some unpasteurized honey you can contact:
Novak Sugar Shack
5888 Lake wood Drive
Davison, MI 48423
810-658-3393

For nutritional counseling call Monica Levin 248-656-2505 for an appointment.

Wheat-Free Bakeries in Michigan

2009-08-22T17:30:00.003-04:00

I was at a farmer's market in Farmington Michigan today. I love being around so many fresh fruits and vegetables! There were also a couple of bakers there so I asked them if they make wheat-free baked goods and gluten-free baked goods. Although they cannot claim to be gluten-free because they have gluten on the premises they do have baked goods whose ingredients do not include wheat or gluten.

For those of you who are sensitive to wheat and/or gluten these wheat-free bakeries will have some delicious wheat-free baked goods for you:

Sunflower Bakehaus
Bakers of whole grain and traditional breads and baked goods.
They have some wheat-free items.
Farmington, Michigan
248-442-2360

Cheeky Monkeys Foods
They have some wheat-free items.
Royal Oak, Michigan
248-943-5269

If you would like to make your own wheat-free baked goods and gluten-free baked goods become a member of www.JoinMonica.com for wheat-free recipes, gluten-free recipes, video cooking lessons, and audio meditations.

The Mental Side of Weight Loss and Other Health Goals

2009-08-15T15:17:00.005-04:00

I changed my diet in 1987 and many of my physical dis-eases disappeared. Now it is more than twenty years later and I am in the process of letting go of the correlation between my physical body and the physical things that I do. I have come to recognize the connection between my mental processes, my emotional state, and my physical body. The challenge is to let go of my old thoughts and beliefs about health and wellness.

My website www.JoinMonica.com has information which I have accumulated throughout the past twenty years. It has recipes for special diets but most importantly is has meditations which teach you how to listen to your inner guidance. YOU are the only one that knows what you need! No book or person or alleged "expert" knows what you need.

For your pleasure here are two videos: the first is the brief version of my inner guidance communication meditation and the second is Abraham speaking about thoughts and weight loss.

Raw Food Vegan Restaurant in Montreal, Quebec

2009-08-14T05:16:00.003-04:00

I was just in Montreal visiting my family and during that time a friend took me to a raw food vegan restaurant. I have to say that the food at the restaurant was super gourmet. I had never before tasted raw food vegan spaghetti where the noodles were made of carrots. I also tasted a raw food vegan pizza and the best raw food vegan cheesecake!

If you are ever in Montreal I suggest dining at this small raw food vegan restaurant:

Crudessence - restaurant
105, Rachel W Street
Montreal Quebec
H2T 1X3
514.510.9299
Opened Monday to Sunday from 10 am to 9 pm

Crudessence intends publishing a raw food vegan cookbook in December 2009. I am going to get one!

For more information on this high quality raw food vegan restaurant visit their website: http://crudessence.com/

For recipes that are free of the top allergy-causing foods (wheat, milk, corn, refines white sugar) become a member of www.JoinMonica.com.

Rescue Remedy in the Hospital

2009-07-28T08:36:00.004-04:00

Last night I was glad that I always keep a bottle of rescue remedy on hand. I got a phone call from my daughter's friend telling me that she and my daughter were in the emergency room of the hospital because my daughter had fainted, hit her heat, and required stitches. I immediately took some rescue remedy, got a couple of extra sweaters and a snack and headed to the hospital.

Everything turned out fine, but then again doesn't it always? I gave my daughter Rescue Remedy in the hospital and even after we got home.

When a trauma has occurred, whether it is physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual, take a drop of Rescue Remedy under your tongue every ten minutes for the first couple of hours and then as needed after that.

This is what a bottle of Rescue Remedy looks like:

For more information on health and well-being visit my websites www.monicalevin.com and www.JoinMonica.com.

Blessings, Monica

Vitamin Capsules Versus Vitamin Tablets

2009-07-23T23:06:00.003-04:00

As we get older our bodies become more stressed and less able to digest the food and supplements that we ingest. It is because of this that when I take vitamins I prefer to take vitamin capsules rather than vitamin tablets.

Vitamin tablets can be so tightly packed that our bodies cannot effectively absorb them.

Vitamin capsules are much easier to break down and absorb. It is for this reason that I love whole food vitamin capsules.

Monica

Trust Your Inner Guidance

2009-07-16T13:53:00.002-04:00

Learn to access and trust your inner guidance (angels) such that you can see the big picture of your life and can detach from painful emotions. The more you strengthen your inner guidance communication, the less the world will affect you. Live your life strong in the presence of the infinite all that is God. Love, live, and be free.

Monica Levin teaches inner guidance communication and offers inner guidance communication coaching.

Become a member of JoinMonica.com to access inner guidance communication meditations and divination tools.

Gluten-Free Pie Crust

2009-07-10T16:12:00.003-04:00

Gluten-Free Pie Crust
1 cup rice flour
1/2 cup arrowroot (or tapioca or potato) starch
1 tsp guar gum
1/3 cup butter
1 egg
1/2 tsp vanilla
water if necessary

Place rice flour, arrowroot starch, guar gum, and butter in a food processor and blend well.
Beat together the egg and vanilla. Add into the food processor ingredients and blend until the dough leaves the side and forms a ball (add water, one teaspoon at a time if extra moisture is necessary or rice flour, 1 tbsp at a time, if the dough is too moist).
Press dough into pie plate, flan pan, or springform pan. If making tarts, press dough into muffin tins or mini-muffin tins.
Note that this gluten-free pie crust cannot be rolled flat and therefore is not useful for a top crust. You can, however, flatten some dough, cut out shapes, and decorate the tops of pies with them.
If you need a baked crust bake it in a 350 degrees F oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Watch carefully and poke holes if the dough starts to bubble.

Watch a video which demonstrates how to make this gluten-free pie crust.

Is soy good for you or is soy bad for you?

2009-06-29T09:15:00.004-04:00

Many people have asked me the questions "Is soy good for you?" and "Is soy bad for you?". There is information to support that soy is good for you and there is also evidence to support that soy is bad for you. When I answer these questions I always go back to "What does your body want?"

Every person is different so the blanket statements "soy is good for you" and "soy is bad for you" are not useful. Your body knows what foods it wants and what foods it does not want. It is time to ask your body.

The video below leads you through a meditation such that you can ask your body (inner guidance, angels, etc) about soy. Once you have done the meditation ask your inner guidance "Do you tell me to avoid soy and soy products?" You will either get a 'yes' and answer or a 'no' answer. Some people need to ask more questions such as:

"Do you tell me to avoid soy milk?"
"Do you tell me to avoid tofu?"
"Do you tell me to avoid tofu cheese?"
"Do you tell me to avoid soy ice cream?"
"Do you tell me to avoid soy yogurt?"
"Do you tell me to avoid soy lecithin?"
"Do you tell me to avoid soy sauce?"
"Do you tell me to avoid Bragg's Liquid Aminos?"

Monica Levin is a holistic nutritionist and inner guidance communication coach. If you would like help determining if soy is good for you or if soy is bad for you then you can schedule an appointment with Monica Levin 248-656-2505 or you can become a member of www.JoinMonica.com where there are meditations and other resources to help you with your inner guidance and your health.

Divination Cards and Oracle Cards

2009-06-28T07:28:00.004-04:00

A few days ago I posted a video which teaches you how to use divination cards and oracle cards:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TYMqMmZceAo

Here is a link to my Amazon Store where you can buy divination cards and oracle cards:

Monica's Amazon Store

Have fun!

Monica

How to Use Divination Cards

2009-06-22T07:30:00.002-04:00

Here is a video that Monica Levin made showing you how to use divination cards or angel cards: