Discovering the Magic of Hormones and Emotions

Enchanting Insights into Hormones and Emotions

Welcome to the enchanted realm of the human body as we gain insight into hormones and emotions. This is where the mystical forces known as hormones weave their spellbinding tales. Within this magical ecosystem, hormones reign supreme, orchestrating a symphony of physiological functions and emotional escapades. In this mystical journey, we’ll unravel the secrets of these potent elixirs and their enchanting dance with our emotions.

Mystical Forces Revealed

Serotonin: Embark on a voyage with serotonin, the Serene Sorcerer of emotions.

This mystical neurotransmitter casts its calming spell, banishing the shadows of sadness and anxiety.

Behold as it conjures feelings of contentment, happiness, and tranquility, transforming your inner landscape into a serene sanctuary.

Dopamine: Prepare to be dazzled by dopamine, the Charismatic Enchanter of pleasure and reward.

With a flick of its magical wand, dopamine sparks the flames of motivation and desire, guiding you on exhilarating quests for joy and fulfillment.

Let its enchanting allure ignite your passions and fuel your dreams, for within its embrace lies the promise of boundless excitement and unwavering determination.

Cortisol: Enter the realm of cortisol, the Mystical Guardian of stress and tension.

As it weaves its protective veil, cortisol stands guard against the perils of adversity, sharpening your focus and bolstering your resolve.

Yet beware, prolonged exposure to its potent magic may stir the winds of anxiety and unrest, casting shadows upon your once-peaceful shores.

Oxytocin: Embrace the enchantment of oxytocin, the Love Elixir.

Like a warm embrace from an old friend, oxytocin nurtures bonds of trust and empathy, weaving a tapestry of intimacy and affection.

Let its gentle magic wash over you, for in its tender embrace, you’ll find solace, companionship, and the true essence of belonging.

Adrenaline: Summon the courage of adrenaline, the valiant Courageous Crusader of fear and excitement.

Adrenaline charges into battle with a mighty roar, empowering you to face your fears and conquer the unknown.

Feel the surge of exhilaration as it courses through your veins, igniting the flames of bravery and fortitude in the face of danger.

Progesterone and Estrogen: Dive into the depths of progesterone and estrogen, The Harmonious Sirens of femininity and grace.

With their ethereal melodies, they guide the ebb and flow of the feminine spirit, painting the canvas of emotion with hues of passion, sensitivity, and resilience.

Embrace the rhythm of their dance, for within their embrace lies the sacred essence of womanhood.

Farwell Magical Dance

As we bid farewell to this enchanting odyssey, let us heed the wisdom of the mystical hormones that dwell within us.

For in their delicate balance lies the key to unlocking the secrets of our emotional tapestry.

So, let us embark on this magical journey with open hearts and curious minds.

Embracing the wondrous dance of hormones and emotions that shape our enchanted lives.

Why Do I Have High Cholesterol Even Though I Am a Vegetarian?

High cholesterol is a condition that affects many people, regardless of their diet. While it is often associated with a diet high in saturated fats and cholesterol, vegetarians may also experience high cholesterol levels. Vegetarians who avoid meat and other animal products often assume that they are at a lower risk of high cholesterol. However, this is not always the case.

Understanding Cholesterol:

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is found in every cell of the body. It is important for many bodily functions, such as the production of hormones and the maintenance of cell membranes. However, when levels of cholesterol in the blood become too high, it can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.

There are two types of cholesterol: LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein). LDL cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because it can build up in the arteries, leading to blockages and other health problems. HDL cholesterol is often referred to as “good” cholesterol because it helps to remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.

Causes of High Cholesterol in Vegetarians:

While a vegetarian diet can be healthy and low in saturated fats, there are still several factors that can contribute to high cholesterol levels. Some of these factors include:

Consuming too many processed foods: Vegetarians who rely on processed foods may consume high levels of refined carbohydrates and sugars, which can increase cholesterol levels.
Consuming high levels of saturated fats: Although vegetarians do not consume meat, they may still consume high levels of saturated fats through dairy products, eggs, and coconut oil.
Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to high cholesterol levels, regardless of their diet.
Lack of exercise: Regular exercise can help to lower cholesterol levels, so vegetarians who do not engage in physical activity may be at higher risk of high cholesterol.

Tips for Managing High Cholesterol:

If you are a vegetarian and have high cholesterol levels, there are several steps you can take to manage your condition. These include:

Eating a balanced diet: Focus on consuming whole foods that are low in saturated fats and high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
Avoiding processed foods: Limit your consumption of processed foods that are high in refined carbohydrates and sugars.
Reducing your intake of saturated fats: Limit your consumption of dairy products, eggs, and coconut oil.
Exercising regularly: Engage in regular physical activity to help lower your cholesterol levels.
Talking to your doctor: If you have high cholesterol levels, talk to your doctor about treatment options, such as medication or lifestyle changes.

Conclusion:

While a vegetarian diet can be healthy and low in saturated fats, there are still several factors that can contribute to high cholesterol levels. By understanding the causes of high cholesterol and taking steps to manage the condition, vegetarians can reduce their risk of heart disease and other health problems.

References:

Mayo Clinic. (2021). Vegetarian diet: How to get the best nutrition. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/vegetarian-diet/art-20046446
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2021). High cholesterol. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/high-cholesterol
American Heart Association. (2021). Vegetarian and vegan diets. https

Vegetarian Diets and Their Impact on White Blood Cell Levels

Vegetarian Diets and Their Impact on

White Blood Cell Levels

A vegetarian diet is a dietary approach that excludes meat, poultry, and fish. Vegetarianism is gaining popularity around the world due to its numerous health benefits, such as reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. However, recent studies have suggested that following a vegetarian diet may lead to lowered levels of white blood cells, which are essential for the immune system.

What are White Blood Cells? White blood cells (WBCs), also known as leukocytes, are an essential part of the immune system. They help to defend the body against infection and disease by attacking and destroying foreign particles, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The normal range of WBC count in a healthy individual is between 4,500 and 11,000 per microliter of blood.

Vegetarianism and White Blood Cell Levels

Recent studies have found that vegetarian diets tend to have lower levels of white blood cells than non-vegetarian diets. For instance, a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that individuals who followed a vegetarian diet had lower levels of total white blood cells and some subtypes of white blood cells, such as lymphocytes and neutrophils, compared to those who consumed a mixed diet.

Another study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that vegetarians had lower levels of white blood cells and natural killer cells, which play a critical role in fighting cancer cells and virus-infected cells. The researchers concluded that a vegetarian diet may affect the immune system by reducing the number of white blood cells and natural killer cells.

Possible Reasons for Lower White Blood Cell Count in Vegetarians

One possible reason for the lower white blood cell count in vegetarians is the lack of certain nutrients in their diet, such as vitamin B12, iron, and zinc, which are essential for the production of white blood cells. Vegetarian diets, especially vegan diets, may also be low in protein, which is necessary for the development of white blood cells.

Another reason could be the higher intake of plant-based foods, which contain phytochemicals that can modulate the immune system. While some phytochemicals have immunostimulatory effects, others have immunosuppressive effects, which may lead to reduced white blood cell counts.

Vegetarian diets have been associated with numerous health benefits, such as reducing the risk of chronic diseases. However, recent studies have suggested that following a vegetarian diet may lead to lowered levels of white blood cells, which are essential for the immune system. While the exact reasons for this are not yet clear, it is essential for vegetarians to ensure that their diet is well-balanced and provides adequate amounts of essential nutrients, including vitamin B12, iron, zinc, and protein, to maintain their immune function.

References:

Gibson R. S. (2019). Content and bioavailability of trace elements in vegetarian diets. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 110(Supplement_3), 796S–802S. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/nqz189
Key, T. J., Appleby, P. N., & Rosell, M. S. (2006). Health effects of vegetarian and vegan diets. Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 65(1), 35-41. https://doi.org/10.1079/pns2005479
Lee, Y., Kim, K. J., & Park, K. (2019). Vegetarian diets and the incidence of cancer in a low-risk population. Cancer research and treatment : official journal of Korean Cancer Association, 51(2), 729–737. https

Magnesium Matters: A Guide to Understanding the Different Types of Magnesium

Understanding the Different Types of Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including energy production, nerve function, muscle contraction, and bone health. It is also involved in the metabolism of other essential nutrients, such as calcium, vitamin D, and potassium. There are several types of magnesium supplements available on the market, each with its own unique properties and benefits. In this blog, we will explore the different types of magnesium and their respective benefits.

Magnesium Citrate: Magnesium citrate is a highly absorbable form of magnesium that is commonly used to support digestion and relieve constipation. It works by attracting water into the intestines, which helps to soften the stool and promote bowel movements. Magnesium citrate is also known to have a calming effect on the nervous system, making it a popular choice for people who suffer from anxiety or insomnia.
Magnesium Glycinate: Magnesium glycinate is a form of magnesium that is bound to the amino acid glycine. This form of magnesium is highly bioavailable, meaning that it is easily absorbed by the body. Magnesium glycinate is known for its calming effects on the nervous system, making it a popular choice for people who suffer from anxiety or stress. It is also a great option for people who experience digestive discomfort from other forms of magnesium.
Magnesium Threonate: Magnesium threonate is a newer form of magnesium that has gained popularity for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. This means that it can be used to support brain function and cognitive health. Studies have shown that magnesium threonate can improve memory, learning, and overall cognitive function.
Magnesium Chloride: Magnesium chloride is a form of magnesium that is commonly used for topical applications. It can be applied as a spray or lotion to the skin and is known for its ability to improve skin hydration and reduce inflammation. Magnesium chloride is also used to support muscle function and promote relaxation. Great for soaking in bath or to make magnesium spray.
Magnesium Oxide: Magnesium oxide is a form of magnesium that is commonly used in supplements. It has a high concentration of magnesium, but it is not as easily absorbed by the body as other forms of magnesium. Magnesium oxide is often used to support bone health, as it helps to increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Magnesium Sulfate: Also known as Epsom salt, magnesium sulfate is often used in baths to promote relaxation and relieve muscle tension.
Magnesium taurate: This form of magnesium is often used to support heart health and may help to lower blood pressure. It is also sometimes used to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
Magnesium malate: This type of magnesium is often used to support energy production and relieve muscle pain and fatigue. It is believed to be particularly effective for individuals with fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome.
Magnesium Oligo: This form of Magnesium melts away stress by easing muscle tension and relaxing your airways.

In conclusion, there are several types of magnesium supplements available, each with its own unique benefits. It is important to choose the right form of magnesium based on your individual needs and preferences. If you are unsure which form of magnesium is right for you, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional.

AMPK-Metabolism & Insulin: Understanding the Connection and Ways to Activate

AMPK or Adenosine Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and energy balance in the body. It acts as a sensor of cellular energy levels and is activated when energy levels are low, such as during exercise or fasting. The activation of AMPK leads to the inhibition of anabolic pathways, such as lipid and protein synthesis, and the stimulation of catabolic pathways, such as glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation. In this blog, we will explore the connection between AMPK, metabolism, and insulin and discuss ways to activate AMPK.

AMPK and Metabolism

AMPK plays a vital role in regulating metabolism by activating catabolic pathways that break down nutrients and produce energy. When energy levels in the body are low, AMPK is activated, leading to the inhibition of anabolic pathways, such as fatty acid and protein synthesis, and the stimulation of catabolic pathways, such as glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation. AMPK activation leads to an increase in glucose uptake in the skeletal muscles and liver and an increase in fatty acid oxidation, leading to increased energy production.

AMPK and Insulin

Insulin is a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating glucose metabolism in the body. Insulin promotes glucose uptake by the cells, leading to a decrease in blood glucose levels. However, in individuals with insulin resistance, the cells become resistant to insulin, leading to high blood glucose levels. Studies have shown that AMPK activation can improve insulin sensitivity by increasing glucose uptake and decreasing glucose production in the liver. AMPK activation also leads to the activation of the PI3K-Akt pathway, which is involved in insulin signaling.

Ways to Activate AMPK

There are several ways to activate AMPK, including:

Exercise: Exercise is one of the most effective ways to activate AMPK. Exercise leads to an increase in AMP levels in the muscles, leading to the activation of AMPK. Studies have shown that high-intensity exercise can lead to a significant increase in AMPK activation.
Caloric restriction: Caloric restriction or fasting can also activate AMPK. When the body is in a state of fasting, energy levels are low, leading to AMPK activation. Studies have shown that intermittent fasting can lead to AMPK activation.
Natural compounds: Several natural compounds, such as resveratrol, curcumin, and quercetin, have been shown to activate AMPK. Resveratrol, found in red grapes and red wine, has been shown to activate AMPK and improve insulin sensitivity in animal studies. Curcumin, found in turmeric, has also been shown to activate AMPK and improve insulin sensitivity in animal studies.

Conclusion

AMPK plays a vital role in regulating metabolism and energy balance in the body. The activation of AMPK leads to the inhibition of anabolic pathways and the stimulation of catabolic pathways, leading to increased energy production. AMPK activation can also improve insulin sensitivity, making it an attractive target for the treatment of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Exercise, caloric restriction, and natural compounds are all effective ways to activate AMPK. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal way to activate AMPK for the treatment of metabolic disorders.

Footnotes:

Hardie DG. AMPK: a target for drugs and natural products with effects on both diabetes and cancer. Diabetes. 2013;62(7):2164-2172.
Carling D, Thornton C, Woods A, Sanders MJ. AMP-activated protein kinase: new regulation, new roles

AMPK and Insulin: How These Hormones Affect Your Body’s Energy Balance

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and insulin are two key regulators of cellular metabolism, both of which play important roles in maintaining glucose homeostasis in the body. While insulin promotes glucose uptake and utilization in insulin-responsive tissues such as the liver, muscle, and adipose tissue, AMPK helps to conserve energy by inhibiting energy-consuming processes and promoting energy-generating processes such as fatty acid oxidation.

Insulin and Glucose Transport:

How the Body Regulates Blood Sugar Levels

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas in response to high levels of glucose in the blood. When insulin binds to its receptor on the surface of target cells, it activates a signaling cascade that leads to the translocation of glucose transporters (GLUT4) to the plasma membrane, allowing for glucose uptake into the cell. Once inside the cell, glucose is either used for energy production or stored as glycogen or fat, depending on the metabolic state of the cell.

Functions and Activation of AMPK:

A Protein Kinase Responding to Cellular Stressors

AMPK, on the other hand, is a protein kinase that is activated by cellular stressors such as low energy levels (low ATP/AMP ratio), hypoxia, and oxidative stress. Once activated, AMPK phosphorylates and inhibits enzymes that consume energy and activates enzymes that generate energy, such as fatty acid oxidation and glucose uptake via GLUT4 translocation. AMPK also stimulates autophagy, a cellular process that helps to remove damaged or unnecessary components of the cell to conserve energy.

Opposing Effects of Insulin and AMPK on Metabolic Processes

and Their Significance in Glucose and Energy Homeostasis

Interestingly, insulin and AMPK have opposing effects on many metabolic processes. While insulin promotes glucose uptake and glycolysis, AMPK inhibits glycolysis and promotes glucose uptake via GLUT4 translocation. Similarly, insulin promotes fatty acid synthesis and inhibits fatty acid oxidation, whereas AMPK promotes fatty acid oxidation and inhibits fatty acid synthesis. This opposing regulation allows for fine-tuning of cellular metabolism and helps to maintain glucose and energy homeostasis.

The interaction between AMPK and insulin is complex and highly regulated, and dysregulation of either pathway can lead to metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. For example, insulin resistance, which is a hallmark of type 2 diabetes, is associated with impaired insulin signaling and decreased GLUT4 translocation, leading to impaired glucose uptake and utilization in insulin-responsive tissues. On the other hand, chronic activation of AMPK can lead to excessive fatty acid oxidation and decreased glucose uptake, leading to impaired glucose metabolism and insulin resistance.

In summary, AMPK and insulin are two key regulators of cellular metabolism that play important roles in maintaining glucose and energy homeostasis in the body. While insulin promotes glucose uptake and utilization, AMPK helps to conserve energy by inhibiting energy-consuming processes and promoting energy-generating processes. The interaction between these two pathways is complex and tightly regulated, and dysregulation of either pathway can lead to metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Caffeine Depletes Your Body of Vitamins and Minerals

Caffeine is a widely consumed stimulant that is found in coffee, tea, soda, energy drinks, and many other products. It can help us stay alert, improve our focus, and give us a much-needed energy boost. However, what many people don’t realize is that caffeine can also have some negative effects on our health, particularly when it comes to our nutrient levels.

In this blog post, we’ll explore how caffeine can deplete your body of vitamins and minerals, and what you can do to mitigate these effects.

How caffeine affects nutrient absorption

Caffeine is a widely consumed stimulant that is found in coffee, tea, soda, energy drinks, and many other products. While caffeine can provide a temporary boost of energy and alertness, it can also have negative effects on the body, including depleting the body of vitamins and minerals.

One of the ways that caffeine can affect nutrient levels is by interfering with the absorption of key vitamins and minerals. For example, caffeine has been shown to reduce the absorption of calcium, iron, zinc, and magnesium in the body. This is because caffeine can bind to these minerals and prevent them from being absorbed by the intestines.

Over time, this can lead to deficiencies in these essential nutrients, which can have a range of negative effects on the body. For example, calcium deficiency can lead to weakened bones and increased risk of osteoporosis, while iron deficiency can cause anemia and fatigue.

How to mitigate the effects of caffeine on nutrient levels

While it’s difficult to completely eliminate caffeine from our diets, there are some steps we can take to mitigate its effects on our nutrient levels:

Be mindful of your caffeine intake: Try to limit your caffeine intake to no more than 400mg per day (the equivalent of about 4 cups of coffee). This can help reduce the impact on your nutrient absorption and excretion levels.
Pair caffeine with nutrient-rich foods: If you’re going to consume caffeine, try to pair it with nutrient-rich foods that can help offset its effects. For example, adding milk to your coffee can help provide calcium, while eating a banana with your morning cup of tea can help replenish potassium levels.
Consider taking a multivitamin: If you’re concerned about nutrient depletion due to caffeine intake, consider taking a daily multivitamin to help ensure you’re getting all the nutrients your body needs.

In conclusion, while caffeine can be a helpful tool for staying alert and focused, it’s important to be aware of its potential effects on our nutrient levels. By being mindful of our caffeine intake and taking steps to mitigate its impact, we can help ensure that we’re getting all the nutrients we need to stay healthy and energized.

The Impact of Caffeine on Nutrient Excretion

In addition to interfering with nutrient absorption, caffeine can also increase the excretion of certain vitamins and minerals from the body. This is because caffeine is a diuretic, which means that it increases urine production and can lead to dehydration.

When the body is dehydrated, it may excrete more water-soluble vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and the B vitamins. This can result in lower levels of these essential nutrients in the body, which can have a range of negative effects on health and wellbeing.

For example, vitamin C is important for immune function and skin health, while the B vitamins are essential for energy production and nerve function. Deficiencies in these nutrients can lead to a range of symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, and poor immune function.

While caffeine can provide a temporary boost of energy and alertness, it can also have negative effects on the body, including depleting the body of vitamins and minerals. By interfering with nutrient absorption and increasing the excretion of certain vitamins and minerals, caffeine can lead to deficiencies that can have a range of negative effects on health and wellbeing. To mitigate these effects, it is important to consume caffeine in moderation and to ensure that you are getting enough key nutrients through a balanced diet or supplements, if necessary.

The Link between Psychological Stress and Serotonin Signaling

Stress is an inevitable part of life, and our bodies are wired to respond to it. However, when stress becomes chronic, it can have detrimental effects on our mental and physical health. One of the ways stress affects our bodies is by releasing cortisol, a hormone that helps us cope with stress. However, cortisol can also decrease serotonin signaling, leading to mood disorders and other health problems. In this blog post, we will explore the link between psychological stress and serotonin signaling.

What is Serotonin and How Does It Affect the Brain?

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, sleep, and other functions in the brain. It is often referred to as the “feel-good” hormone because it promotes feelings of happiness and well-being. Serotonin is produced in the brain and is essential for normal brain function. Low levels of serotonin have been linked to depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders.

How Does Cortisol Affect Serotonin Signaling?

When we experience stress, our bodies release cortisol to help us cope with the stress. Cortisol prepares our bodies for a fight or flight response by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose levels. However, cortisol can also decrease serotonin signaling in the brain. Cortisol inhibits the production of tryptophan, an amino acid that is necessary for the synthesis of serotonin. This leads to decreased serotonin levels, which can result in mood disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Strategies to Boost Serotonin Levels and Reduce the Effects of Stress

There are several strategies that can help boost serotonin levels and reduce the effects of stress. These include:

Exercise: Regular exercise has been shown to increase serotonin levels in the brain and reduce the effects of stress.
Diet: Eating a healthy, balanced diet that includes foods rich in tryptophan, such as turkey, chicken, fish, and tofu, can help boost serotonin levels.
Mindfulness meditation: Practicing mindfulness meditation can help reduce stress and increase serotonin levels in the brain.

Conclusion:

Psychological stress can have a significant impact on our mental and physical health. Understanding the link between stress, cortisol, and serotonin signaling is essential for managing stress and promoting overall well-being. By incorporating strategies such as exercise, a healthy diet, and mindfulness meditation, we can help boost serotonin levels and reduce the effects of stress on our bodies and minds.

Vitamin K2 and How It Helps Your Body

K2 Helps with the mobilization of calcium in the body to the bones.

Why is this important?

Because when you have excess calcium in your arteries, joints, or other places can lead to serious problems. Vitamin K2, with the help of vitamin D3, could help extract this buildup of calcium and put it right into the bones to actually strengthen the bones.

Here are some of the many benefits of vitamin K2:

Improves insulin resistance
Increases insulin sensitivity
Suppresses inflammation
Decreases fat accumulation
Increases energy capacity (more energy before physical activity)
Increases testosterone
Help to Prevent Calcification
Helps Prevent Bone loss

The best food sources of vitamin K2 are:

Cheese (gouda, munster, cream cheese
Butter
sour cream
heavy cream
Egg yolk
liver (goose, chicken, beef)
Pepperoni
Salami
Sausage
Greens / Leafy Vegetables
Fermented Foods like Natto or Sauerkraut

The reason why these are mostly animal products is that animals eat grass, which contains Vitamin K1 (which has to do with clotting), and then their body converts it into vitamin K2. The vitamin K2 that is found in natto and sauerkraut are formed by bacteria in the fermentation process.

Who Would Benefit from Vitamin K2?

If you have a history of taking Antacids
Antibiotics
Statins
Take D3 and/or Calcium
Do You have GI Problems
Menopause
Heart Problems
or are you Pregnant

Make sure to take K2 with fat. What I mean is if you want this supplement to work at its optimal level you need to have some sort of fat included.

Consuming with Eggs, Avacodo, or MCT oil is fantastic.

An empty stomach is not good.

A full meal that includes fiber is not as good.

The key is you want to Either eat food high in K2 or take supplement K2 with a good source of fat.

K2 works well with D3

Hope this helps you understand a little better how your body uses Vitamin K.

Donel Rourke, C.C.H.

Be Free From Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Symptoms

This is what I fight!! Myalgic Encephalomyelitis.

This is why I spend my days helping others to go from sick to fit.
I understand what it feels like to be so sick that you don’t want to live.

Doctor after doctor.

Test after test.

Medications that made more symptoms than helped.

I had no hope.

I could not do the things I loved like dance, spend time playing with my children, or just the simple things like walking. Forget about walking up or downstairs.

But then I changed my mind.

I changed my thoughts and I changed the words that I allowed myself to say to myself.

I became my cheerleader, my motivator instead of my doom and gloom critic.
I found the best coach/functional medicine doctor who gave me simply do this and watch your life change instructions and I did exactly that.

No questions I just followed her recommendation.

Once I got my health back I went to school and discovered Rapid Transformational Therapy and found my purpose.

Now I have the knowledge of why my body responds to food, to stress, to my thoughts and I choose each moment to live a life of my choosing, not one that just happens.

I know that if I eat sugar I will have an increase in inflammation in my body.

I know if I do stress-inducing exercises I will have an increase in inflammation.

I know if I consume alcohol I will have an increase in inflammation.

Why is the knowledge helpful to me? Because now I know I can control how much pain I am in.

My past choices have been increasing the symptoms I had from CFS/ME, Lupus, fibromyalgia, EDS, MCAS, and Grovers.

All the joint pain, muscle pain, and bone pain from my choices.

Memory loss and forgetfulness loss of focus are all from my choices.

The symptoms of IBS, PCOS, Insulin Resistance and fatty liver were all from my choices.

When I understood that it was my choices causing 95% of my symptoms, at first I was upset that I did this to myself but then Rapid Transformational Therapy showed me if my choices were making me sick, then if I change my choices I could change the symptom.

My coach/functional medicine doctor helped me understand how my body’s hormones worked in the body. She taught me how stress causes a hormone disruption.

Sleep, food, alcohol, toxins in our personal care products and even cleaning product all cause stress to the body. But the biggest cause of stress is the words we say to ourselves and the looping thoughts that we think.

Understanding is the key to getting what you want.

What do you want?

Do you know?

Ask yourself right now, “What do I want and How do I want to feel?”

For me I want to love the life I live feeling a sense of peace in every decision I make.

I want to help others find their purpose.

I want to help others go from sick to fit.

I want to help others Love the Life they Live.

How Much Protein Do You Need?

General Guidelines for the amount of protein are 0.8 – 2 grams per kilogram of body weight for the best performance and health.

Wait Kilograms I measure in pounds/lbs. how do I get to kilograms?

First, calculate your weight in kilograms by dividing your weight in pounds by 2.2. (round up or down)

Second, decide how many grams of protein per kilogram of body weight is appropriate for you.

good health and are sedentary: 0.8g per kg.
(between 1.0 and 1.2) if you are under stress, pregnant, recovering from an illness, or if you are involved in consistent and intense weight or endurance training.

Third, multiply your weight in kg times the number of protein grams daily.

Fourth, multiply by 4 to get how many calories are from protein.

Example:

140-pound (lb.) female who exercisers and lifts weights at least 3 x a week, but is not training at an elite level:

140 lb./2.2 = 64 kg
64kg × 1.2 = 77 grams protein per day
77 × 4= 307 calories

An easy chart to use.

Sedentary .08 g

100 lbs. 36 g

150 lbs. 55 g

200 lbs. 73 g

Workout 3 times a week 1.0 g

100 lbs 45g

150 lbs 68g

200 lbs 91g

Elite Athlete 1.2-2.0 g

100 lbs 54-90 g

150 lbs 82-136 g

200 lbs 110-182 g

over 65 increase 1.2 – 1.5 g

100 lbs. 54-68 g

50 lbs. 82- 102 g

200 lbs. 110- 137 g

Protein As a Percentage of Total Calories

Another way to calculate how much protein you need is by using daily calorie intake and the percentage of calories that will come from protein.

First, determine how many calories your body needs each day to maintain your current weight:

Find out what your basal metabolic rate (BMR) is by using a BMR calculator

For a 140-pound female who consumes 1344 calories per day eating a diet composed of 20 percent protein:

1344 x 0.20 = 269 calories from protein
269 calories / 4 = 67 grams of protein per day

Now, are you trying to maintain or lose weight?

Calculate your BMI to find out if you need to lose weight.

If you need to lose weight, cut back on complex carbohydrates and increase good fat intake.

Want to be a part of a challenge group?

Listen to the podcast now

Love the Life You Live

Now take these rules of the mind and make them personal.

Instead of “the” mind say “my” mind.

Here is an example: My Mind learns by repetition-

Give examples of things you had to learn by repetition: brushing teeth, eating, walking, wiping your own ass, driving a car, how to read/write.

Example 2: My mind responds to 2 things- The pictures I create in my head and the words I say to myself.

Example 3: My mind loves what is familiar and rejects what is unfamiliar.

Prime examples of things we are familiar with: food we grew up eating, getting on social media when you have a free moment, certain type of exercise/activity, places we are use to going (bar, fast food restaurants, movie/mall)

Now lets switch those example to unfamiliar change you are trying to make: Eating in a new healthier way, when you have a moment do some type of breathe work, do a new workout/activity, go to someplace new that aligns with what your desired outcome is(church, healthy restaurants, beach/park)

Easy way to start training your mind for familiar unfamiliar is to brush your teeth for the next month with the opposite hand every time you brush. Now ask yourself how hard is that? If you find this easy you will be able to make changes easier because you have an open conscious mind to change. Most will find it difficult to remember every time.

The reason why it is so hard to change is because when your mind accepts something into your subconscious mind it will stay there until you replaced with a new thought/belief/habit.

How do you replace the old limiting thoughts/beliefs/habits?

First you have to recognize them. This is where meditation or hypnosis will come into play.

Why? because I said subconscious mind.

We try to make changes with our conscious mind and when dealing with the subconscious mind, the greater the conscious effort, the less the subconscious responds.

Next one: My mind does not care if what I tell it is good, bad, true, false, healthy unhealthy, or right or wrong, it accepts and acts on my words regardless.

Your mind will create your reality with the words you speak and the mental images you put in your mind

Here is another example: Every thought I think causes a physical reaction and an emotional response within me.

When you feel an emotion rising up in you, is it coming from an outside source or from your own thoughts?

One thing I tell myself and those I counsel is truly feel the feeling that you are feeling, for only 90 seconds.

Truly feel joy, happiness, anger, sadness, whatever emotion shows up “FEEL IT”. After the 90 seconds you are no longer feeling the feeling because of an emotional response, you are now creating that feeling from your thoughts and beliefs.

Stop!!!

Don’t stay caught up in the emotional loop.

That is how you find yourself living in the known past or the predictable future.

Live in the now.

Feel the emotion of “NOW”!

Not what has happened or what could happen.

The only true reality is the present moment.

“When a person has a reaction to something in their environment,” she says, “there’s a 90-second chemical process that happens in the body; after that, any remaining emotional response is just the person choosing to stay in that emotional loop.”
“Something happens in the external world, and chemicals are flushed through your body which puts it on full alert. For those chemicals to totally flush out of the body, it takes less than 90 seconds. This means that for 90 seconds you can watch the process happening, you can feel it happening, and then you can watch it go away.”
“After that, if you continue to feel fear, anger, and so on, you need to look at the thoughts that you’re thinking that are re-stimulating the circuitry that is resulting in you having this physiological reaction, over and over again.”-Harvard brain scientist Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor

The present moment is the reality that we need to base our emotional wellbeing on.

Love the life you Live

Donel Rourke, C. HYP.

What are The Different Types of Eaters?

Weight Issues Usually have Nothing to do with Weight.

Finding out what is causing the weight gain will be the key to understanding why every diet you try fails. Just to help you understand that this is not a “you” problem, 95% of all diets fail.

Most individuals try to lose weight by doing an action like the newest diet, the best supplement to take, or joining a workout program. Doing these actions will get you some results but they are hard and take a long time and they usually fail.

Instead, find out the thoughts behind the actions. You can do that by sitting and meditating and waiting for the universe to guide you, this will usually take months maybe years it all depends on how quiet you allow your mind to go or you can book a session with me and in 2 hours you will have the answer and a plan to get what you want.

Using RTT® we have the ability to access the subconscious mind allowing us to uncover, reprogram and upgrade limiting beliefs and find the root cause of any mental or physical issue, pattern, or behavior providing complete freedom and healing.

What you need to understand is it is often not just overeating or lack of exercise, it is often an emotional issue.

Let’s look at the different types of eaters and discover some clues to help you reach your goals.

Different Types of Eaters

Emotional/Mood Eaters

When you feel tired, stressed, or angry do you put food in your mouth? What you are doing is pushing those feelings down. You are eating your feelings. Let’s look at some habits of emotional eaters: Eating when you’re not hungry. Eating as a self-soothing practice. Using food as a reward. Eating until you feel stuffed. Do you find it hard to control the amount of food you intake?

Addictive Eaters

Are you addicted to highly palatable foods like sugar, fat, and salt? Do you need more of the same food? You can become addicted to food very quickly. Do you know that sugar has the same effect on the body/brain as crack cocaine? Like addictive drugs, highly palatable foods trigger feel-good brain chemicals such as dopamine. Once you experience pleasure associated with increased dopamine transmission in the brain’s reward pathway from eating certain foods, you quickly feel the need to eat again. The reward signals from highly palatable foods may override other signals of fullness and satisfaction. This is when you eat even when you are not hungry.

Angry Eaters

Are you someone who eats when you are stressed? You have stress receptors on the side of the mouth and if you eat potato chips, crunchy French bread, crackers, chewy toffee,- it actually starts to release feel-good feelings. One of the main problems is the more you can hear yourself eat the more you eat. So the crunchy foods to turn to would be celery, carrots, apples, bell peppers, and salads.

Ignorant Eaters

People who really believe a salad from a fast food restaurant must be slimming because it is a salad. Or anything that says low-fat healthy. Eating fat makes you fat. If I don’t eat breakfast and eat every two hours then my metabolism will slow down. An ignorant eater is brainwashed to believe that these foods are healthy. Frank-n-Foods are the ignorant eater’s best friend. If it is processed in a plant you should limit it, or the best advice is to just avoid it.

Destructive Eaters

Were you abused or hurt, or lusted after when you were small? You have an unconscious need to sabotage any efforts of being lean. You unconsciously do not want the attention. You actually destroy any attempt to be slim because you do not like being attractive and you feel very vulnerable and very scared.

Rapid Transformational Therapy can help you to understand the role, the function, and the purpose the weight plays in your life.

Is it there to protect you?

Maybe it is a form of punishment?

Maybe it is a cry for attention.

Finding out the root cause of these feelings and healing from them will help you move forward to the weight you truly want.

During an RTT® session not only will you uncover the root reason and heal yourself but you will design your new life. The life you dreamed of. The life you deserve. I then will make you a personal be-spoken recording for you to listen to for 21 days to help you continue on your journey.

This is your journey. Everyone is different. Stop making the same mistakes year after year and decide to change the meaning of the past so you can have the future you have dreamed of.

Book your appointment now

Donel Rourke, C.HYP.