86 Year Old Gymnast Johanna Quaas

An 86 year old woman from Germany, Johanna Quaas, recently set a world record after she competed in the 2012 Cottbus World Cup wowing judges and earning the title of the world's oldest gymnast.

Almost daily, Quaas practices on the parallel bars and has already won 11 gymnastic medals in the German senior citizen championships.

Quaas, a former sports teacher who comes from the eastern German city of Halle, first gained public attention when she appeared on a health program by local German television MDR in early March.

She says she now does gymnastics “just for fun” and that she has stopped participating in regular competitions.

“I want to give the others a chance too. And to perform against 70-year-olds all the time is no fun after a while," Quass said.

Translated interview with Johanna: 

Q: If there were World Championships or European Championships, you would be a candidate for a title, I would say. Is that the case?
J.Q.: I would love to compete with others and I always regretted that there are not even European Championships, not to mention Worlds for seniors. In every other sport that is the case just not in gymnastics.

Johanna always liked gymnastics

Q: In the world of gymnastics you have been known for a long time. For those who don't know this: you started quite early. In the fifties you were one of Eastern Germany's top gymnasts.
J.Q.: No, not really, I just was "Oberstufe" (pretty high level in their system but not quite elite). But I started out playing handball until 1954, and there we were Eastern German Champion in 1954, with the (she names a club that I can't really understand the name).

Q: But in gymnastics in Halle...
J.Q.: Along the way a started doing gymnastics, that was allowed then. Then I did actively gymnastics until 32 or 33. Also at "Wissenschaft Halle" (another club), back then. But then I restarted in 1956.

Q: A last word to Quaas and Freyburg. How does this match together? Forever, right?
J.Q.: Yes, forever, since I restarted gymnastics I was back here everywhere. And I love it, because one can do gymnastics outdoors, and as always the weather is beautiful.

Q: Yes, and the gymnasts deserve that.
J.Q.: Yes.

Q: Thank you very much, all the best, and where do we see you again?
J.Q.: The next one is "Schnepfenthal", I like going there, too. That's in the region of GutsMuth (an 18th century pioneer in gymnastics) and also Friesen worked there (early 19th century pedagogue). And I always like it there, too. Also senior championships. But from the championships I want slowly to retire, I think that was long enough now.

Thanks for reading! What do you think?

High Protein Diet is Linked to Heart Risk

According to a new study [here] published in the British Medical Journal, adherents to a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet have a significantly increased risk of suffering from a cardiovascular event, such as a heart attack or stroke.

For the study, researchers tracked the health of 43,400 middle-aged Swedish women over a 15 year period.

The study found that individuals following a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet are 28 percent more likely to suffer from a heart attack or stroke while following the diet. Researchers also found that even a simple swap to incorporate additional animal-based protein in the diet can have negative health impacts. For example, replacing a daily serving of bread with an egg can raise the risk of dying of a heart attack or stroke by five percent.

The study’s lead author warned about the potentially negative health impacts of following low-carbohydrate diets over the long term, noting: “This study is bad news for people who follow these types of diet for long periods of time. They should be very careful about dietary regimes, the long term safety of which have not been studied adequately.”

She also pointed out that the main concern with the diet was not with protein intake per se, but with the fact that the high-protein foods tended to be animal products, which are high in saturated fat and cholesterol.

Although proponents assert that low-carb plans are a “viable, safe, effective and sound diet,” other prominent health experts warn that the potential short-term weight loss benefits of the diet ”seem irrelevant in the face of increasing evidence of higher morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular diseases in the long-term.”

The study team authors concluded that a low carbohydrate, high protein diet "used on a regular basis and without consideration of the nature of carbohydrates or the source of proteins are associated with increased cardiovascular risk." It is important to note that this research did not find an increase in disease risk when the protein source was derived from nuts, seeds or vegetables. The study confirms the importance of a diet comprised of natural foods from organic sources with a balance toward carbohydrates from slow-releasing vegetables and fruits and moderate intake of proteins in the form of nuts and seeds to lower cardiovascular disease risk.

Thanks for reading! What do you think?

Seaweed Found to Stop Tooth Decay

Microbes found on seaweed could provide an unexpected weapon in the fight against tooth decay, scientists have said.

A group of UK scientists are experimenting with enzymes extracted from seaweed microbes that may be able to remove the microbes in dental plaque. Their lab tests suggest the microbe's enzyme cuts through plaque, stripping it of bacteria that cause tooth decay.

They used an enzyme isolated from the marine bacterium Bacillus licheniformis which they were originally researching for cleaning ships’ hulls. Professor Grant Burgess, who led the research, said: “It’s an amazing phenomenon. The enzyme breaks up and removes the bacteria present in plaque and, importantly, it can prevent the build-up of plaque too. 

While toothpastes are effective, there are still hard-to-reach areas between teeth where the bacteria in plaque can erode enamel, causing cavities.

Dr Nicholas Jakubovics of Newcastle University’s School of Dental Sciences believes better products offering more effective treatment can be made using the enzyme.

He said: “Plaque on your teeth is made up of bacteria which join together to colonise an area in a bid to push out any potential competitors.

“Traditional toothpastes work by scrubbing off the plaque containing the bacteria – but that’s not always effective, which is why people who religiously clean their teeth can still develop cavities.

“Work in a test tube has shown that this enzyme can cut through the plaque or layer of bacteria, and we want to harness this power into a paste, mouthwash or denture-cleaning solution.”

When threatened, bacteria shield themselves in a slimy protective barrier known as a biofilm.

It is made up of bacteria held together by a web of extra- cellular DNA which binds the bacteria to each other and to a solid surface – in this case in the plaque around the teeth and gums.

The biofilm protects the bacteria from attack by brushing, chemicals or even antibiotics.

But after studying Bacillus licheniformis, which is found on the surface of seaweed, the Newcastle University scientists found that when the bacteria want to move on, they release an enzyme which breaks down the external DNA. That breaks up the biofilm and releases the bacteria from the web.

Professor Grant Burgess, who led the research, said:“When I initially began researching how to break down these layers of bacteria, I was interested in how we could keep the hulls of ships clear, but we soon realised that the mechanism we had discovered had much wider uses.

“If we can contain it within a toothpaste, we would be creating a product which could prevent tooth decay.

“This is just one of the uses we are developing for the enzyme, as it has huge potential such as in helping keep clean medical implants such as artificial hips and speech valves, which also suffer from biofilm infection.”

The team will now look to collaborate with industry to carry out more tests and product development. Stay tuned!

Where to find seaweed toothpaste right now

Currently, there is a tooth product for animals made from seaweed and it has fabulous reviews . But what about for humans? I did find a Russian toothpaste sold on Amazon with silver, sea minerals and kelp. This is the only one I could find at the present moment. Please let me know if you happen to find another one as I'd like to list it here. It is also a great idea to incorporate seaweed into your diet for teeth health. Kelp, specifically, is loaded with calcium.

Natural Health: "9 Mistakes That Are Aging You"

The recent article in Natural Health magazine was so right on, helpful and accurate, I needed to share it here with you all in case you didn't see it:

Getting older. it’s a universal truth that many of us don’t entirely embrace. And so, as the years march on, we spend a lot of time and money trying to look and feel younger. But for all of our efforts, we’re still making some mistakes, often without realizing it. “I see it all the time in my practice,” says ob-gyn Jennifer Ashton, M.d., the Englewood, N.J.-based author of Your Body Beautiful: Clockstopping Secrets to Staying Healthy, Strong and Sexy in Your 30s, 40s and Beyond (Avery) and co-host of ABC’s The Revolution. 

“Women say they want to turn back the clock, but then self-sabotage, whether it’s with their eating, sleep or exercise habits—you name it.” the good news is that you can take simple youth-boosting steps to reverse your aging errors. “it’s never too late to change your habits,” says Ashton. “And the results are so dramatic, you won’t want to stop because you’ll see and feel such a powerful difference.” So get time back on your side! Here’s how.

1. Aging Error: Eating Sweets
The average American eats 150 pounds of sugar each year—18 percent of our calories. You know the health implications of this, from obesity to type 2 diabetes, but it can also be as much of a wrinkle-causing culprit as sun exposure and smoking. That’s because a process called glycation causes sugars to attach to proteins in collagen and elastin, which can make skin look older. a study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that the aging effects of excess sugar consumption become visible around age 35 and accelerate rapidly after that.

Youth boosters: Your best bet is to cut out processed foods, says integrative medicine physician Jacob Teitelbaum, M.D., of Kona, hawaii, and author of Beat Sugar Addiction Now! (Fair Winds Press), who adds that women should limit their sugar intake to 6 1⁄4 teaspoons (or 25 grams) a day. Fiber also slows sugar absorption, so opt for whole foods like an orange over its juices (OJ has the same sugar content as soda). When a sugar craving hits, it’s often because you’re thirsty, Ashton adds. “go for water or seltzer instead of something sweet,” she advises. If that doesn’t help, have a piece of dark chocolate or fresh berries— and opt for sweeteners like Body Ecology or Sweet Leaf brands of stevia or ribose (corvalen), a healthy sugar that, in a recent study, increased subjects’ energy 61 percent and improved heart function.

2. Aging Error: Working Too Hard
Research has found that a bad job—whether it’s a career you don’t enjoy or working long hours—can increase the risk of heart disease and speed up cell aging, as well as minimize the time you spend getting exercise, healthy meals and sleep. long-term chronic stress—a common problem for the overworked—also impairs age-related brain function. “It shrinks the hippocampus, where memories are formed, and impairs frontal lobe function—planning, coordinating, prioritizing and executing complex activities,” says Phoenix-based neurologist Paul Bendheim, M.D., author of The Brain Training Revolution: A Proven Workout for Healthy Brain Aging (Sourcebooks, Inc.).

Youth Boosters: If you can’t change your stressors outright (think: a difficult boss, travel schedule or workload), draw up a list of things that make you happy—a pet’s wet kisses or your favorite tea—and add them into your day, advises Jennifer Garza, M.S., a life coach in Cornwall on Hudson, N.Y., and author of 365 Days to Happiness: Use Your Strengths, Thoughts, and Dreams to Manifest a New Life (InspireWire Publishing). She also suggests a no-complaint challenge: “for one week, resist the urge to gripe, and replace complaints with thoughts of gratitude.” Garza also notes that work is most fulfilling if it gives you a sense of purpose, so she recommends enlisting the help of a therapist, life coach or book to help you move toward recognizing and fulfilling your dreams.

3. Aging Error: Eating through the AGEs

Advanced glycation end products (ages) form when sugars and fats react with a protein, causing a structure to change irreversibly, and then attach to many things in the body and cause damage, says Michelle Davenport, nutritionist and research scientist at the new York University School of Medicine in New York City. While we can create ages in our body after eating sugar, we can also straight-up consume these ages via foods that are processed and/or heated. “AGEs can increase inflammation and oxidation that cause aging and age-related diseases affecting the heart, brain, bones and joints, kidneys, insulin resistance, anemia and skin,” says Davenport.

Youth Boosters: Browning, caramelizing, grilling, roasting, broiling and frying create ages, so limit these cooking methods. Highly processed and canned foods heated during processing, as well as high-fat dairy products like cheese, are also culprits. Your best bets to reduce the consumption of ages are to eat raw when possible, eat foods in their whole form and cook them with a water-based method (like steaming, poaching or boiling) or marinate in an acid (like vinegar or lemon juice) before cooking. eating a variety of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory foods can also help reduce the inflammation and oxidation that ages cause, so go for berries, sweet potatoes and leafy greens.  

4. Aging Error: Dropping the Weights

Women Lose approximately 5 percent of their muscle mass every decade after the age of 30. “Resistance training is the only thing that reverses this,” says Brad Schoenfeld, adjunct professor in the exercise science department at Lehman College in the Bronx, N.Y., and author of Women’s Home Workout Bible (Human Kinetics). “It may even increase muscle growth to previous levels or above them.”

Indeed, a 2011 University of Michigan study of subjects over 50 years old found that resistance exercise helped them gain lean body mass, and doing this earlier in life was even more effective. “Strength training is also great for bone density and increasing energy and strength,” adds New York City-based Kristin McGee, a celebrity yoga and fitness expert. “It keeps the metabolism running, helps with balance and stamina and is good for the heart. More muscle tone also means less saggy skin.” It can help improve flexibility as well, contributing to better posture, looser joints and a more limber body, which all equal a more active lifestyle as you age, notes Schoenfeld.

Youth Boosters: McGee recommends aiming for 20 minutes of resistance training three times a week, using weights or bands for curls, presses, rows, squats and lunges—or your own body weight for push-ups, chair dips, squats, lunges and planks. She says to pair this training with 30 minutes of cardio five days a week, or take advantage of activities like tennis that encourage cardio and resistance work.

5. Aging Error: Sleeping Unsoundly

“Getting regular sleep isn’t a luxury—it’s a medical need,” says Ashton. “Lack of sleep releases cortisol, which can age us internally and externally.” Consistency is key, too: a 2011 study in the journal Sleep found that changes in how much or how little test subjects slept over a five-year period in late middle age were associated with an accelerated cognitive decline equivalent to four to seven years of aging!

Youth Boosters: Getting a solid 7 1⁄2 hours of uninterrupted sleep per night lets you cycle through several REM patterns; it’s in this stage of sleep that the body is able to repair itself, and is important for healing, memory, skin elasticity, normal cortisol levels and metabolism, notes Mark Anderson, M.D., a partner at executive Medicine of Texas in Southlake and author of Stay Young: 10 Proven Steps to Ultimate Health (George House Publishing). If you’re having trouble falling asleep, Ashton recommends strategies such as keeping your room at 65 degrees, maintaining the same sleep and wake hours, and nighttime rituals like taking a warm bath. She says valerian tea or tart cherry juice, which help to stimulate melatonin production, are also great natural sleep aids. If tension keeps you up at night, Carolyn Dean, M.D., N.D., Maui, Hawaii-based medical director of the Nutritional Magnesium Association, recommends taking 1 to 2 teaspoons of magnesium citrate powder mixed with water or juice to relax those muscles.

6. Aging Error: Forsaking Fat

“Women typically cut fats from their diet as they age, because they’re trying to cut calories,” says Ashley Koff, R.D., Los Angeles-based author of Mom Energy (Hay House). But good, healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids help to keep skin supple, boost brain health, keep the heart strong, fight diabetes and can increase lifespan. “Cutting omega-3s increases cellular inflammation that accelerates the aging process, and eventually leads to organ dysfunction and loss of function,” says Barry Sears, Ph.d., president of the Inflammation Research Foundation in Marblehead, Mass. It also makes your skin look more irritated, less radiant and simply older, says Ashton.

Youth Boosters: Koff says the science around isolating omega-3s is relatively new, so she suggests eating whole foods containing an array of nutrients, including omega-3s—which is in line with 2011 research from Oregon Health and Science University that found people with healthier diets, rich in a variety of vitamins including B, C, D, E and omega-3s, had bigger brains and better cognitive function. Sears says to avoid vegetable oils rich in omega-6s (corn, soy, sunflower, safflower), limit saturated fats found in butter and cheese, and consume more extra virgin olive oil, almonds, avocados, [hemp, chia, walnuts] and fatty fish like wild salmon.

7. Aging Error: Bad Form

According to the national Institutes of health, people typically lose about 1 centimeter of stature every 10 years after age 40. rounding of the upper back, lower back pain and a forward head position are the most typical age-related posture concerns seen by Dana Davis, a certified teacher of the Balance Posture Method in her practice at Sonoma Body Balance in California. Sitting, standing and bending incorrectly don’t just add years to your appearance but take a physical toll, too. “When we sit or stand with our bones misaligned, our muscles work overtime and it weakens our joints,” Davis says. “good posture helps you look healthy, stay strong and flexible, eliminate or avoid pain, increase energy, be more relaxed and maintain mobility.”

Youth Boosters: When seated, sit on your sitz bones (the bony part of your butt that you feel when you sit on a firm surface), Davis advises. When standing, draw your chin in to look at your ankles, let your weight move back into your heels, take each shoulder back and down, and back your head up without lifting your chin too high—and for bending, bow from your hip joints, not your waist, she says. “alignment problems are far more common in industrialized Western countries from sitting hunched over computers and desks,” adds Christiane Northrup, M.D., an OB-GYN in Yarmouth, Maine, and author of The Wisdom of Menopause (Bantam), so she suggests clasping your hands behind your back, lengthening your arms and stretching hands downward, and opening your chest forward and breathing deeply to reset posture every hour.

8. Aging Error: Skimping on Sex

Getting busy contributes to greater happiness, a stronger immune system, good circulation and caloric burn and can even help you live up to eight years longer, according to one study. Some researchers say sex also boosts the production of human growth hormone, which improves muscle tone and makes you look younger and more fit, notes Ashton. Jennifer Berman, M.D., director of Berman Women’s Wellness Center in Los Angeles, adds that the chemicals released during sex reduce stress and improve energy, well-being and mood. “Sexual health is a critical component to general health and wellness,” says Berman. “The longer we can sustain and maintain a sexually active life, the better.”

Youth Boosters: The average American couple has sex twice a week, according to Berman, but says it’s most important that both partners are reasonably satisfied with the frequency. Ashton notes that scheduling sex can help trigger your desire, as can fantasizing for 10 minutes a day on your own or trying something new like sexy lingerie or a new position to keep things interesting. To “wake up” your pelvic area and stave off a low libido, she prescribes three sets of 10 Kegel exercises every day for four weeks. “Be patient with your ups and downs,” she adds. “Sex won’t be consistent over your lifetime.” If stress is blocking your libido, emotionally or physically, Berman recommends a topical organic botanical oil called On4Her ($25; on4her.com) that triples sensation and enhances orgasm.

9. Aging Error: Exposing Yourself

Of course the most serious result of too much sun is skin cancer, but it also causes wrinkles, sun spots, broken capillaries and a dry, dull complexion—and it’s not just from baking on the beach. Ashton says that 80 percent of sun exposure comes from cumulative everyday outings whether walking or driving (UVA light travels through car windows). Additional sources, according Neal Schultz, M.D., a New York City-based cosmetic dermatologist, include reflected light from sand, water and snow; mirrored rooms with large windows; high altitudes; and the ultraviolet radiation responsible for the UV index on a cloudy day. Debra Jaliman, M.D., New York City-based dermatologist and author of Skin Rules: Trade Secrets from a Top New York Dermatologist (St. Martin’s Press) says sun can also age our bodies on the inside, decreasing immunity.

Youth Boosters: Apply a daily moisturizer containing an SPF 30 or higher (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide ingredients are chemical-free) to all exposed areas, and use a dedicated sunscreen for outdoor activities—treating ears, neck and the backs of hands with a good UVA blocker like avobenzone, oxybenzone, ecamsule, titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, advises Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in the dermatology department of Mount Sinai hospital in new York City. Wear protective clothing, including a hat, too, Zeichner notes, and limit your exposure—even on cloudy days. Shield your eyes and surrounding skin with sunglasses that have UV protection of 400 or higher, Jaliman adds. Kristina Grish is a writer and published author in New York City.

Create a Natural First Aid Kit

These are my favorite remedies — the ones I consider indispensable for a natural first-aid kit. All of the remedies are available at any well-stocked health-food store or over the internet.

Basic Items

These are important items to have in any first-aid kit:

• Sterile, nonstick bandages, assorted sizes
• Adhesive bandages, such as Band-Aids, assorted sizes
• Scissors
• Thermometer
• Tweezers
• Magnifying glass
• Needles/safety pins, assorted sizes
• Matches and candles
• Latex gloves
• Hot water bottle
• Ice pack
• Alcohol swabs
• Toothpicks or natural floss

Stock Your Natural First Aid Kit

• Aloe vera gel: Cooling and healing, aloe vera soothes the inflammation of sunburn and common kitchen scalds and burns. A good gel is Lily of the Desert, but the purest formula of aloe vera I've ever come across is Pure Aloe Vera by Aubrey Organics. It comes in a small bottle perfect for a first aid kit. The only minor downfall is that the formula is more liquidy than gel-like.

• Arnica gel or cream: Arnica flowers have anti-inflammatory and circulation-stimulating properties; the gel or cream is excellent for sore muscles, sprains, strains and bruises. Do not apply arnica to broken skin. If you search, there are many formulas of arnica gel to choose from.

• Activated charcoal or powdered bentonite clay for diarrhea or food poisoning. If using on children or pets, be sure to check dosing directions. Make a paste of the clay and apply externally to wasp or bee stings to draw out poison. I use bentonite clay quite a bit. It can be purchased inexpensively on Ebay.

• Calendula-comfrey salve: The bright yellow-orange blossoms of calendula (Calendula officinalis) have astringent, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) contains allantoin, a compound that stimulates the growth of new tissue and helps heal wounds. Look for a healing salve that contains both. I highly recommend Kuumba Healing salve which has both calendula and comfrey in it. I have some impressive healing stories with this salve and recommend it highly.

• Chamomile tea bags: With its delicious distinctive flavor, chamomile (Matricaria recutita) makes a tasty tea. Gentle enough for children, chamomile has mild sedative, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It promotes relaxation, relieves indigestion and, when applied topically, soothes skin irritation. I recommend Celestial Seasoning Chamomile tea bags, they are simple and inexpensive.

• Olive Leaf Extract or Echinacea liquid extract: Olive leaf extract is a versatile cure all, and an essential part to a first aid kit. It is a natural antibiotic, protects the body from viruses, colds, flu, parasites; great for energy, well-being, digestive problems and many other health complaints. If you are not keen on olive leaf, echinacea is a good alternative. Rich in immune-stimulating chemicals, echinacea can be used for any type of infection. Liquid extracts are the most versatile because they can be used both internally and externally. I prefer olive leaf and buy this.

• Elderberry capsules or liquid extract: Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is essential for stopping a cold or flu. The berries contain compounds that prevent cold and flu viruses from invading and infecting cells. Taking elderberry is a good preventive. If you do come down with a cold or flu, taking elderberry can hasten your recovery time. Sambucol is a recommended product made from the elderberry. It has great reviews.

• Eleuthero standardized extract: An excellent adaptogen, eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) can help prevent jet lag, de-stress the body and help fatigue; it was even used by Soviet cosmonauts to help them adjust to space travel. Standardized extracts guarantee that you’re getting sufficient amounts of eleutherosides, which herbalists consider to be the herb’s active compounds.

• Eucalyptus essential oil: A potent antibiotic and antiviral, eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) is excellent for treating colds, flus and sinus infections when used as a steam inhalation. Dilute with oil or witch hazel extract before applying to the skin, and do not take internally. 

• Ginger capsules, tea bags and crystallized ginger: The antispasmodic and gas-relieving properties of ginger (Zingiber officinale) soothe digestive upsets. Ginger also has been proven to relieve motion sickness better than Dramamine, the conventional drug treatment. Ginger seems to work as a natural pain reliever as well. When I used to get painful menstruation cramps when I was younger, ginger worked just as well as any pain-reliever to get rid of the pain. There are all types of ginger on the market such as capsules, tea, gum, lozenges, candy etc., but I recommend a simple liquid ginger extract to keep in your first aid box.

• Goldenseal capsules or powder: A powerful antimicrobial, goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is effective against a variety of microorganisms that cause diarrhea. The powder has antiseptic properties and can be sprinkled onto cuts or wounds to stop bleeding and to kill infection. Do not take goldenseal internally during pregnancy.

• Poison ivy cream: An absolute essential in a first aid kit. There are many natural ones on the market, but I like this one.

• Lavender essential oil: Virtually an all-purpose remedy, lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) has sedative, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. It’s helpful for anxiety, insomnia, headaches, wounds and burns. For most people, lavender essential oil can be applied directly to the skin. Do not take more than 1 to 2 drops internally.

• Laxative herbal tea bags: Constipation is a common complaint. Most herbal laxative teas rely on senna (Cassia senna), which contains compounds called anthraquinones that stimulate intestinal activity. Because senna has a bitter, unpleasant flavor, it’s often combined with tasty herbs such as cinnamon, fennel, licorice and ginger. Traditional Medicinals makes a tea called Smooth Move that is perfect.

• Peppermint essential oil and tea bags: With its high concentration of menthol, peppermint (Mentha xpiperita) soothes an upset stomach, clears sinuses and curbs itching from insect bites. If you have sensitive skin, dilute peppermint oil before applying.

• Valerian tincture: The sedative properties of valerian (Valeriana officinalis) make it useful for relieving anxiety, insomnia and tension; it’s also a mild pain reliever.

• Cough Drops: natural cough drops are helpful when a cough or sore throat sets in. The menthol ones are especially helpful. Be sure to get one that is made of natural ingredients and isn't loaded with sugar.

• UMF Manuka honey: UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) Manuka has both the natural hydrogen peroxide antibacterial property and its own natural UMF antibacterial property, giving it increased antibacterial potency. Studies on the Manuka Honey benefits have shown that Manuka Honey contains an ingredient with powerful antibacterial, anti microbial, antiviral, antioxidant, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and anti fungal properties. Effective on wounds, and for all types of external and internal ailments. This is an excellent UMF manuka honey. Be sure the honey says UMF on it.

• Witch hazel extract: Distilled witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) has mild astringent, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for insect bites and skin irritations. It’s also an excellent base for diluting essential oils for a variety of simple, topical herbal first-aid remedies. Do not take it internally. This is a good witch hazel. There are alcohol-free versions if that's what you need.

• Lavender essential oil: an all-purpose remedy; use to help with insomnia, anxiety, headaches, wounds and burns. For most people, it can be applied directly to the skin. One drop takes the swelling and itch out of mosquito bites. It is an anti-inflammatory and has antiseptic properties.  

Tea tree oil is an antiseptic like lavender oil. Use to prevent a wound from getting infected. I like this blend of lavender and tea tree oil, but you can always buy them separately. This blend can be diluted in witch hazel to be used on all types of skin problems.

Epsom salt-Good as a bath soak for sore muscles. Dissolved in water, it can also be a good soak to help remove splinters.

Ichthammol or pine drawing salve: used to remove splinters. An absolute essential part of a first aid kit especially with children in the house. These can also be used for other skin problems.

Coconut oil: From skin salve, to diaper creme, to makeup remover, to antifungal treatment, coconut oil is amazingly versatile. Keep some in the first aid kit to add remedies to, to take internally, to use to apply tinctures and help absorption externally and for dry skin and chapped lips. There is also growing evidence that daily consumption of 1/4 cup or more of coconut oil can help protect against Alzheimer’s and nourish the thyroid.

Tiger Balm. To treat muscle cramps and headaches, rub this salve on the affected muscle or temples, avoiding the eyes. I used this often when I was younger. It is extremely effective.

Additional First-Aid Essentials

• Electrolyte replacement: Powdered drink packets such as Emergen-C.

• Bee sting kit: An absolute necessity if you or anyone in your household are allergic to beestings.

• Waterless hand sanitizer: Travel-size bottle.(I get this)

Ways You Can Use Your First Aid Kit

Anxiety:
• Drink chamomile tea, 3 cups a day.
• Take valerian tincture, 1⁄2 to 1 teaspoon up to 3 times daily.
• Take a bath with 10 drops of lavender essential oil or place a drop of lavender oil on a tissue and inhale as desired. 

Blisters:
• To dry a blister, soak a gauze pad in witch hazel, lay it over the blister and cover with an adhesive bandage. After blister has broken, wash with a mixture of echinacea/olive leaf extract diluted with an equal part of water. Finally, apply calendula-comfrey healing salve and cover with an adhesive bandage.

Bruises:
• Immediately apply ice to relieve pain and swelling.
• Apply arnica cream or gel twice daily. 

Burns:
• Immediately immerse the affected area in cold water until the burning sensation subsides. Then apply aloe vera gel mixed with lavender essential oil (5 drops of lavender oil mixed with 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel).
• For sunburn, soak in a cool bath with 10 drops of lavender essential oil.

Colds and Flus:
• Take 1 dropperful of olive leaf extract extract four times a day until symptoms subside.
• Take 1 dropperful of elderberry extract four times a day until symptoms subside.
• To relieve congestion and soothe a sore throat, drink hot ginger tea with honey.
• To ease congestion, add 2 drops each of eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils to hot water; inhale the steam vapors.

Wounds:
• Add 1 dropperful of echinacea/olive leaf extract to 1⁄2 cup of water as an antiseptic wash.
• To stop bleeding, sprinkle goldenseal powder directly into the wound and apply pressure with a clean cloth.
• Apply manuka honey or healing salve.

Diarrhea:
• Replenish lost fluids and soothe the digestive tract with chamomile or ginger tea.
• For diarrhea caused by infectious microorganisms, take 1 capsule of goldenseal three times daily for up to two weeks. Take charcoal if necessary.
• To boost immunity and fight infection, take 1 dropperful of olive leaf extract four times daily.

Headache:
• Drink chamomile tea as often as desired.
• For more severe headaches, take 1⁄2 to 1 teaspoon of valerian root extract; repeat every two hours until pain abates.
• Take a warm bath with 10 drops of lavender essential oil.
• Massage 2 drops of diluted peppermint essential oil or Tiger Balm onto temples, forehead and neck. Keep away from eyes.

Indigestion:
• Sip warm chamomile, peppermint or ginger tea.

Insect bites and stings:
• Cleanse the bite with olive leaf extract.
• Apply a drop of undiluted peppermint or lavender oil to relieve itching and as an antiseptic.
• Mix clay with enough water to make a paste, and apply to the bites to relieve itching and draw out toxins.

Insomnia:
• Drink a cup of warm chamomile tea.
• For stronger sedative action, take up to 1 teaspoon of valerian tincture before bed.
• Take a warm bath with 10 drops of lavender essential oil.

Jet lag:
• Take eleuthero (100 mg of standardized extract) three times daily for one week or more before traveling and for one week or longer following the flight.

Nausea:
• Take ginger until symptoms abate.

Poison oak/ivy:
• Immediately wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and cool water, or sponge with alcohol to remove the oily resin.
• Use poison ivy cream

Strains and sprains:
• Immediately elevate and apply an ice pack to the affected area to reduce swelling and inflammation. After 24 hours, apply hot compresses to increase circulation and speed healing.
• Soak in a hot bath with 5 drops of eucalyptus essential oil.
• Apply arnica cream or gel to the affected area three times daily.

Study Accidentally Finds Chemotherapy Makes Cancer Far Worse

Chemotherapy has long been looked at as an aggressive and painful form of cancer therapy, but was also considered necessary, and the most effective treatment.

Now a recent study has shown that chemotherapy actually heavily damages healthy cells and subsequently triggers them to release a protein that sustains and fuels tumor growth. Beyond that, it even makes the tumor highly resistant to future treatment. Researchers were initially attempting to determine why cancer cells are easy to kill in a laboratory, but so hard to stop in a human body.

Reporting their findings in the journal Nature Medicine, the scientists report that the findings were ‘completely unexpected’.

They tested tissue collected from men with prostate cancer, and found "evidence of DNA damage" in healthy cells after they received chemotherapy. Chemotherapy inhibiting reproduction of cells that divide quickly like those found in tumors.

Researchers focused on a cell known as the fibroblast in the neighborhood of the cancerous tumor. When the fibroblast was given chemotherapy, the researchers found that it produced a high level of a molecule called WNT16B, that enable the growth of cancerous cells.

"The increase in WNT16B was completely unexpected, according to study researcher Peter Nelson of Seattle. WNT16B, when secreted, would interact with nearby tumor cells and cause them to grow, invade, and resist subsequent therapy."

Tumors often respond well to chemotherapy treatments at first, then experience rapid regrowth and resistance later.

The news comes after it was previously revealed by similarly breaking research that expensive cancer drugs not only fail to treat tumors, but actually make them far worse. The cancer drugs were found to make tumors ‘metasize’ and grow massively in size after consumption. As a result, the drugs killed the patients more quickly. 

Study researcher, Peter Nelson, said it might be possible to use smaller and less toxic doses of chemotherapy during treatments. The scientists already expect to study the effects of WNT16B suppressants being given along with chemotherapy drugs in preventing the cell growth.

Thanks for reading! What do you think?

Jim Morris, 76-Year-Old Vegan Bodybuilder

At age 76, Jim Morris is a striking example of the power of a vegan diet, exercise and a positive mental outlook. 

A former Mr. America and Mr. U.S.A, Jim has been bodybuilding and training people since 1954. He has been a vegetarian for 26 years, and a vegan for 11 years. In 1996 at the age of 61, Jim celebrated his 30th year of competition by entering the Mr. Olympia Masters and winning the over 60 class.

Jim's Life Timeline:

• Jim has trained people for over 50 years and started designing fitness programs in 1954 at the Central Queens YMCA in New York. He had just gained 35 lbs of pure muscle in 3 months and people wanted to know how he did it. He was very successful and started an Olympic weightlifting team that won state competitions.
• Jim joined the Air Force in 1961 where he ran the 5Bx fitness program and held workout classes for 4 years.
• He then joined the New York Fire Brigade as fireman, which allowed him to start training for bodybuilding competition. Jim won every major competition at the East Coast including Mr. Jr USA, his first national title.
• In 1969 he moved to LA to learn from Bill Pearl, the 4-time Mr. Universe and bodybuilding legend who taught him the mechanism of training himself and training others.
• Jim won Mr. California in 1970.
• In 1973 he won Mr. America at age 37.
• Also in 1973 Jim met Elton John at a party in Hollywood, and this encounter led Jim to become Elton John's personal bodyguard for the next 15 years.
• Jim was inducted into the "Physical Fitness Hall of Fame" on Sept 9, 1978 along with Bill Pearl, Sergio Oliva and Jack LaLanne.
• From 1978 to 1985 Jim ran his own gym in West Hollywood and attracted many competing bodybuilders including Larry Jackson, James Joseph, and Bob Paris to train at his gym.
• He later sold the gym and resumed personal training, which he continues until today at Gold's Gym in Venice.
• Jim retired from competition after the Mr. Universe contest in 1977.
• In 1985 he decided to become vegetarian at age 50.
• In 1996 he came out of retirement to compete in the Mr. Olympia Masters and won in the 60s age group when he was 61. He was looking back on a 30 year competitive career at that point.
• In 2000 at age 65 Jim Morris became vegan.
• Today, at age 76 and as vegan bodybuilder, Jim still retains his amazing physique and trains regularly.

Interview with Jim

 Jim you are now 76 years old and look amazing! I know that the great photos of you are not retouched because I saw you with your shirt off during our Vegans in Vegas event! You gave an inspiring presentation and everyone was awestruck by your accomplishments - as vegan bodybuilder and beyond. Tell us about your daily fitness routine and how you keep in that great shape.

Jim: When I am "in Training" I rise at 3 am. I work-out from 4 - 5 am at Gold's Gym in Venice, CA. 

My workout consists of a split routine:

• Sunday and Thursday I do legs - 5 or 6 sets of some sort of squatting or leg press movement and 5 or 6 sets of thigh extensions.
• Monday and Friday - 5 sets of lat pulldowns, 5 sets of cable flyes, and 5 sets of dipping machine.
• Tuesday and Saturday - 5 sets of dumbbell side laterals and 5 sets of forward laterals on low pulley; 5 sets triceps pushdown on high pulley and 5 sets straight dumbbell curls.
• Wednesday is off

I live just 5 minutes from the gym and I train a maximum of three clients a day at Gold's Gym between the hours of 7 am and 10 am. Some days I have only or two clients.

Can you share your vegan nutrition plan that gives you the energy and the nutrients that you need to keep in such great physical shape as vegan bodybuilder?

Jim: Since I am a vegan bodybuilder I ALWAYS have either a large pot of bean soup or grains in the refrigerator. I ALWAYS have a variety of fruits in the house. I ALWAYS have a variety of nuts in the house.
I ALWAYS have a vegetable drink in the house.

The drink contains watermelon, water, collard greens, broccoli, red, yellow and green bell peppers, beets with the tops, carrots with the tops, yams, radishes and parsley.

Please do not try to duplicate my drink. It's better if you make up your own with the vegetables you like. Look-up the nutritional value of the vegetables and start with something you like; then add to those other vegetables with nutrients you want to include.

I don't follow any regular nutrition schedule as vegan bodybuilder: some days I have a drink around 10 am and some days I do not have a drink at all. There are days when I don't eat anything until 3-4 pm and then it might be peanuts and grapes, or whatever nuts appeal to me and whatever fruit might be in the house. Some days I might have some soup and some not.

I go to bed between 6 - 7pm.

At Vegans in Vegas, you described your personal advice for creating a firm abdominal musculature without constant crunches and sit-ups. Can you elaborate on this again for Belsandia readers?

Jim: The abdominal muscles are voluntary, in that they will only flex when you flex them deliberately. In other words, they will not tighten or contract on their own - which makes it so hard for most people to obtain strong and firm abdominal muscles.

Begin by emptying your stomach and intestines, because the abdominals cannot fully contract against the pressure of a full stomach. Then get in front of a mirror and learn to flex the muscles of the torso. Once you can flex all the muscles of the torso, increase your ability to flex them until you can make them cramp. At that point, flex them regularly during the day for as long as you can. Then train them to stay flexed by holding them in all the time.

Eventually, your abdominal muscles will stay contracted without any more effort on your part.

You have a long and storied career in successful bodybuilding competition. Did you eat a traditional meat-based diet at first, and what prompted you to change that and turn vegetarian in 1985, at age 50?

Jim: I ate a meat-based diet during the entirety of my competitive career with the exception of the Masters Mr. Olympia in 1996. I was a vegetarian for 10 years at that time.

I became vegetarian because my mentor and coach was vegetarian. Bill Pearl, a 4-time Mr Universe and 1953 Mr America was a vegetarian in 1969 when I met him, and seeing how muscular and healthy he was caused me to become interested in learning more about vegetarianism.

Did you ever consider becoming vegetarian before that time?

Jim: Yes, but I was afraid to change what had been a winning formula for contests.

Similarly, what sparked your move to become a vegan bodybuilder in 2000 at age 65?

Jim: Curiosity. I wondered what would happen if I did all of the things I knew were right and stopped doing all of the things I knew were wrong.

We have all heard them, and even said them, "Yeah I know I should..., but, or "Yes, I know I shouldn't..., but." I decided to eliminate "the buts" and live as I knew I should.

Obviously embracing a pure plant-based diet has not adversely affected your strength and great physique. Did you feel a difference in your performance when you became a vegan bodybuilder and athlete?

Jim: The change was part of a complete philosophical change and a complete change in my lifestyle and goals, so I cannot say for sure what part the diet played.

What three main myths would you like to bust for bodybuilders who still believe they need to get protein from meat, eggs, and dairy products?

Jim: I would like to bust the following myths about vegan bodybuilding, as they are total nonsense:

1. "It is impossible to be muscular and grow with vegetable proteins"
2. "Vegetable proteins are incomplete"
3. "You have to eat enormous amount of vegetables in order to get enough protein"

What is your recommendation for health-conscious people who want to become a vegan bodybuilder for a more compassionate lifestyle, but are afraid of losing muscle mass or stamina? 

Jim: The only way to know for yourself is to try being a vegan bodybuilder for 6 months - that is a timeframe when you have fully adjusted to your new lifestyle and can tell the difference.

Do you use or recommend any supplements for vegan athletes?

Jim: I only use a vitamin B12 supplement - nothing else.

You mention that your vegan diet is very simple, consisting of fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, and nuts. You eat most of them raw and cook the beans and grains. You also mention that you don’t consume anything that is processed. What is the most common mistake people make, in your opinion, when they try to shape up on a vegan diet?

Jim: They try to combine foods so as to create complete proteins. The body will do that on its own and it is not necessary to analyze and manipulate the foods to get the best protein intake from your vegan diet.

Another thing that sparked my interest was the article you wrote about hypnotherapy on your website. Can you explain what you did, how it helped you, and if you would recommend it to others?

Jim: By sheer coincidence I happened to be working at the main branch of the New York Public Library at 5th Ave and 42nd St when I was introduced to what was called "lifting weights" in 1954 by a coworker. The library had and still has every magazine on the subject.

Obsessed, I read every magazine. Without realizing it I was hypnotizing myself. I would go from the magazines to other books in the library on any subject mentioned in the magazines I was not familiar with and study: kinesiology, skeletal structure, etc. 

In one of the “Iron Man” issues they spoke about how to set goals, short term and long term. I set a goal of gaining 30 lbs between Labor Day and Thanksgiving Day (about 80 days). Only in retrospect did I realize and remember that on Labor Day, I went into a trance-like state which lasted until Thanksgiving Day. I had gained 35 lbs. I have used this in my training many times since.

I definitely would recommend that you try to get a professional to teach you to self hypnotize - it can do wonders for you.

Have you thought about a book or speaking tour to spread your wisdom about health and fitness as a vegan bodybuilder and an older athlete any further?

Jim: I'm thinking about it is as far as I have gotten as vegan bodybuilder. What I have to offer is better to show visually than in writing. I think it will be better suited for an eBook or something which can be downloaded.

I have read the quote that describes your philosophy: "The adventure you get is the one you are ready for". Please tell us more about what drives you and what advice you would like to give our readers on the way.

Jim: My motivation constantly changes as my body and circumstances change. Motivation comes from within. At the moment it is a matter of health for me.