Replies

SALMONELLOSIS, SEROTYPE SAINTPAUL - USA (03): SPROUTS, GEOGRAPHIC SPREAD
******************************************************************
A ProMED-mail post
http://www.promedmail.org
ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases
http://www.isid.org

Date: Mon 9 Mar 2009
Source: Enews 2.0 [edited]
http://www.enews20.com/news_Sprouts_Probed_in_Salmonella_Outbreak_in_5_States_16799.html

Five states have now reported _Salmonella_ Saintpaul bacterial
infections thought to be linked to sprouts from SunSprout Enterprises
Inc. of Omaha, Nebraska. Although laboratory testing did not confirm
sprouts as the source, as a precautionary measure, the company
voluntarily recalled its alfalfa, onion, and gourmet sprouts.

According to the Food and Drug Administration spokesman Mike Herndon,
an inspection at Sun Sprout was ongoing, but no cause of the
salmonella outbreak had been found so far. Company officials said
sprouts suspected to be involved in the current salmonella cases were
distributed to food distributors in Iowa and Nebraska who sell the
product to restaurants and retail stores.

The sprouts were sold refrigerated under the SunSprout label in
4-ounce clear plastic clamshell containers. The alfalfa sprouts are
also packaged in bulk 2.5-pound and 5-pound cases for use in
restaurants. The onion sprouts and gourmet sprouts are not packaged
in bulk form.

The 5 states have reported about 50 cases of salmonella infection.
They are Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, Iowa, and Missouri.

[Byline: Sophia Keenan]

—
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail
promed@promedmail.org

[To reiterate, this serotype Saintpaul outbreak is genetically not
related by the previous outbreak in the USA related to tomatoes/jalapenos.

The 5 Midwestern states involved can be located on the
HealthMap/ProMED-mail interactive map of the US at
http://healthmap.org/promed/en?v=40,-97.6,4
- Mod.LL]

Homemade Vanilla Extract - BY BRENDA C
Cut 1 vanilla bean into several pieces. Place in a glass jar with 1/3 teaspoon of sugar and 3 ounces of vodka. Place lid on tightly and let vanilla bean steep for one month. Shake every day. It will then be ready to use.

Buildup Remover - BY M. RENARD
Mix a pinch of baking soda in with your regular hair shampoo, to rid your hair of buildup caused by styling products and the environment. It works great.

http://www.pioneerthinking.com/inthekitchen-readers.html

Love Your Lemons- BY MARLA TUFARELLI LMT, CAT
Next time you go out to eat, order lemon wedges.

Lemons contain bacteria fighting agents. Squeeze the lemon into your water using your knife and fork to clean harmful bacteria off the surface. Squeeze the remaining juice in your hands and cleanse entire surface. The rind contains the oils, a more concentrated form of cleaning agent.

If you’re brave enough not to look paranoid with your guest, peel the lemon, use the rind to clean your silverware, glass, and hands.

An added plus to this cleaning technique is that water with lemon stimulates digestive enzymes to improve digestion and is excellent for internal cleansing as well.

Stretch Tinned Dog Food - BY YVETTE H
Soak any leftover, stale bread in water. Add Gravox powder and heat in microwave so water and gravy powder are easier to mix and soak into bread. Into bread mixture stir in any leftovers or tinned dog food or biscuits, let cool. Your dog will love it!

20 Great Breakfast Ideas

by David Dunkerly

It is said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, after all, you have just starved yourself for up to 12 hours. It is important to give yourself a nutritious meal to start your day well and to refuel your body, but it’s easy to get bored of breakfast if you have the same thing every day and many people skip it altogether.

Variety is the spice of life so don’t eat the same breakfast every day. Use the ideas below to make breakfast more interesting, more appealing and healthy.

1. Porridge - Use porridge oats or instant oats to make yourself a satisfying breakfast which will keep those hunger pangs at bay. Oats are slow release energy and so will keep you going until lunchtime. Flavour your porridge with honey, fruit such as berries and seeds or nuts like almonds.

2. Whole grain cereals - Look for cereals which are whole grain and serve with skimmed milk or soya milk. Add interest by serving with sliced bananas or mix in berries. The fibre in the cereal will really help your digestive system and help you to feel full.

3. Scrambled eggs on whole grain toast - A very nutritious meal and for a treat why not add some chopped smoked salmon to the eggs? Instead of eggs, you can use tofu - stir fry with some soy sauce, onions and peppers for a delicious breakfast.

4. Yogurt and muesli - Mix a low fat yogurt with some low sugar muesli and fruit for a tasty, quick breakfast. A perfect breakfast for when you are running late.

5. Muffins - Find a recipe for some healthy whole grain muffins and serve with jam or nutritious peanut butter. Make sure you choose a natural peanut butter.

6. Cottage cheese - Mix low-fat cottage cheese with fruit for a quick but nutritious breakfast.

7. Fruit salad - Chop up your favourite fruits and enjoy. You can prepare this the night before if you add lemon juice to keep apples from going brown. Store in an airtight container.

8. Fruit smoothie or shake - Search online for some smoothie and shake recipes to use in your blender. Add protein powder to make a really nutritious breakfast.

9. Fruit, nuts and cheese - For breakfast on the run, grab and apple, chunk of cheese and a few walnuts, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts or almonds.

10. Breakfast Pizza - Spread a slice of whole grain bread with ricotta cheese, add slices of tomato or some chopped tomato, sprinkle with some olive oil and grill - delicious!

11. Tostada - This is a traditional Spanish breakfast. Skin some tomatoes by cutting a cross on the top and bottom and soaking in boiling water for a couple of minutes, whizz in your blender and spoon over a slice of French bread (baguette) which has been cut length ways and toasted lightly under the grill. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and a little salt.

12. Breakfast Sundae - layer chopped fruit or berries, low-fat yogurt and muesli in a sundae glass and drizzle honey over the top.

13. Homemade bread - If you have a breadmaker with a timer, you could time the breadmaker to finish at breakfast time - lovely fresh, warm bread to serve with preserves, honey or peanut butter.

14. Omelettes - Omelettes are quick to prepare and you can enjoy many different varieties. Mushroom omelette is great for breakfast.

15. French Toast (Eggy bread) - Soak slices of wholegrain bread in a mixture of egg and milk and cook on a griddle or in a frying pan for a few minutes. Serve sprinkled with cinnamon and brown sugar. You can also make a sandwich by spreading the bread with soft cheese and jam or pureed fruit and then dip the whole sandwich into the egg and milk mixture before cooking.

16. Pancakes - Mix up a batch of pancake batter the night before and make pancakes for breakfast or reheat a batch of pancakes. Experiment with different fillings or toppings.

17. Burrito - Serve scrambled eggs and tomatoes or ham and cheese rolled up in a tortilla for a quick and tasty breakfast.

18. Bacon sandwich - Grill lean bacon and serve on whole grain bread.

19. Cooked breakfast - Grill bacon, a low-fat sausage, tomatoes and serve with scrambled eggs for a traditional English breakfast.

20. Breakfast bars - Search for recipes for healthy breakfast bars or flapjacks. These bars are a great standby when you need to eat on the run.

The Author:

David provides content for the Recipe Collection site. If you are looking for a recipe collection which includes breakfast recipes, (amongst others), then the Recipe Collection site is right down your street. There is a breakfast recipe to suit every taste.

Article Source: ArticlesUniverse.com

Article Posted: March 9, 2009

http://www.pioneerthinking.com/dd_breakfast.html

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/ara_poweroutages.html

How to Prepare for Power Outages

(ARA) - Mother Nature is full of surprises, especially during the winter months when freezing temperatures, ice, snow and high winds can knock out power to your home. Not only is a power outage inconvenient, it can threaten your safety. Your power can go out without notice, so make sure you’re prepared the next time you’re left in the dark.

Prepare Your Home and Family

A recent Chamberlain study conducted by Zoomerang found that 93 percent of homeowners reported having experienced a power outage this year alone, with some outages lasting hours or even days. Every family should prepare an emergency kit for storms and power outages and keep it in a central location.

The kit should include:

* Flashlights, extra batteries, matches and candles
* A battery-operated weather radio
* A fully charged cell phone battery
* First aid supplies
* Bottled water and nonperishable packaged or canned foods and snacks
* Blankets, towels and pillows

Don’t panic. Help keep family members and children calm in the dark by telling stories and playing games such as trivia and guessing games.

Always Have Access — Don’t Forget the Garage

Today, more than half of homeowners (55 percent) use the garage door as the primary entrance to their home, relying on an automatic garage door opener to gain access. However, during a power outage, homeowners are faced with having to manually lift the garage door, creating security, safety and convenience concerns. Make sure you have backup options when the power goes out.

* To avoid being blocked from entering and exiting your garage during an outage, check out a garage door opener with the EverCharge Standby Power System, a battery backup system that continues to supply power to open and close your garage door for up to two days when the power has failed, available on selected Chamberlain and professionally installed LiftMaster garage door openers.
* Know how to manually open and close your garage door during a power failure. Test your ability to ensure you can physically lift your garage door, your home’s heaviest and largest moving object.

Save Your Appliances

Power surges happen, so unplug your appliances to avoid a blow out when the power returns. Using power strips with surge protectors is an easy and cost-effective way to protect expensive electrical appliances.

* Open the refrigerator and freezer doors only when necessary and keep a cooler and ice packs on hand to store items that spoil easily.
* Remember to turn off your furnace, water heater and water pump. Leave one overhead room light in the “on” position so you can easily tell when the power has been restored.

For more information and to find a professional garage door opener dealer near you, visit www.liftmaster.com. For weekend warriors, the Chamberlain product equipped with the EverCharge Standby Power System can be found at most major home improvement retailers under the Chamberlain brand name or at www.chamberlain-diy.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

ARTICLE POSTED MARCH 9, 2009

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/tk_gardenleftovers.html

Garden Leftovers
BY TAWRA KELLAM
In April you can’t wait to taste the first tomato. By September you are sick of tomatoes and wondering if you can eat another one. Here are some ideas to use those summer leftovers from Dining On A Dime Cookbook.

Watermelon Pickles

3 pounds white portion watermelon rind, cubed
5 cups sugar
2 cups cider vinegar
1 cup water
1 Tbsp. whole cloves
1 Tbsp. whole allspice
3 cinnamon sticks, 3 inches each
1 lemon, sliced

Put watermelon cubes in a large pot with enough salted water to cover. Soak overnight. Drain. Cover with fresh, cold water and bring to a boil. Cook over low heat until tender. Drain. In another large pot, combine sugar, vinegar and water. Tie cloves, allspice, cinnamon and lemon in a cheesecloth bag. Add to sugar mixture and stir over medium heat until mixture boils. Boil 5 minutes. Add watermelon cubes and simmer until translucent, about 15 minutes. Remove spice bag and pack pickles in hot, sterilized jars. Refrigerate 2 weeks before using. Makes 4 quarts.

Fried Green Tomatoes

2 qts. water
2 Tbsp. salt
1 cup flour
vegetable oil or bacon grease
4-6 medium green tomatoes, un-peeled and sliced
salt (to taste)

In a mixing bowl, mix salt and water. Soak sliced tomatoes in salt water mixture or 30-40 minutes. Drain and drop slices a few at time into a bag in which you have placed the flour. Shake thoroughly to coat. Heat the oil in a large skillet and carefully place the slices into the hot oil. Brown until crisp on both sides. Salt to taste. You can also use squash, zucchini or eggplant in place of or with the green tomatoes. Serves 4-6.

Salsa

4 cups tomatoes (canned with juice may also be used)
1 green pepper, chopped
1 large onion, diced
2 to 3 Tbsp. lime juice (to taste)
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
2 Tbsp. cilantro, chopped
1 small, fresh jalapeno pepper, minced
salt and pepper

Cook all the ingredients in a large saucepan on medium heat for 20 minutes. Pour into hot, sterile quart jars and seal. Process in a pressure canner for 25 minutes. We use salsa frequently enough that we don’t have to can it. If you don’t can it, store it in the refrigerator. Makes 3 pints.

_______________________________________

Author:

Tawra Kellam is the author of the frugal cookbook Dining On A Dime. For more free tips and recipes visit our website at http://www.LivingOnADime.com/

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/highgrocery.html

Practical Ways To Fight High Grocery Prices

1. Learn to cook intelligently. Invest in a good, inexpensive cookbook.

2. Plan all meals in advance.

3. Cook only as much food as your family will consume at each meal.

4. Cook slowly. Do not overcook. This prevents vitamin & mineral losses.

5. Save and make use of all leftovers. Start collecting leftover recipes.

6. Serve smaller portions. Eat less, stay slimmer...and healthier.

7. Eliminate fancy, fattening, expensive desserts.

8. Give children smaller portions and teach them not to waste food.

9. Avoid “fad” and junk foods consisting of empty calories.

10. Cut down on all sweets, white flour products and fatty foods.

11. Stop smoking. Drink juices instead of alcoholic beverages.

12. Don’t drive many miles to save a few pennies at a certain store.

13. Use powdered milk instead of fresh milk.

14. Beat high coffee prices by drinking tea - and save about half.

15. Take your lunch to work.

16. Watch “open dating” on perishables and avoid buying outdated, spoiled food.

17. Become a “comparison shopper”. Buy “specials” from several stores.

18. If you don’t have one, invest in a new or good used freezer.

19. Read labels. Remember that ingredients are listed in order by weight.

20. Purchase only what you will use and eat everything you buy.

21. Visit your grocer as LEAST often as possible.

22. Trade money-saving recipes with friends, relatives, neighbors.

23. When grocery shopping, carry a list and stick to it!

24. Shop only on a FULL stomach. Never when hungry.

25. Never take children grocery shopping with you.

26. Clip, save and use “store coupons”. Trade those you don’t need.

27. Watch for grocery store “sale” ads and shop the store’s specials.

28. Watch the cash register when checking out. Errors can be costly.

29. Buy your favorite foods in the largest size containers available.

30. Buy cheaper “store” or “house” brands.

31. Avoid the supermarket’s “gourmet” section.

32. Stock up on genuine bargains.

33. Ignore advertisements for “new” or “improved” convenience products.

34. Avoid all convenience foods and items with long lists of additives.

35. Stock up on “in season” foods.

36. Pocket big savings by using more poultry in your menu.

37. Avoid non-nutritious foods, junk foods, sugary foods, soft drinks, etc.

38. Dine out less often. When you do, take home leftovers in a “doggie bag”.

39. Grow some of your own herbs, fruits, vegetables.
40. Avoid convenience stores. They’re more expensive.

41. Ask store personnel to steer you to the “best buys”.

42. Buy your favorite foods by the case and ask for discounts.

43. Make your own soups, bakery goods, ice cream, yogurt, cole slaw, jams, etc.

44. Buy unsliced cheese and sandwich meats. Slice them yourself and save.

45. Look for damaged merchandise and ask for price reductions: dented cans, crushed cartons, outdated bakery goods, bruised produce, etc.

46. Buy ONLY food items from your grocery. Buy non-food items elsewhere.

47. Serve a balanced diet and you won’t have to spend on vitamins.

48. Buy “in season” produce from local farmer’s fields, gardens, orchards.

49. Compare prices of foods in various forms - canned, frozen, fresh and dried. Buy the least expensive.

50. Observe “unit pricing”. Compare weights before deciding.

51. Before checking out, weed out the items you don’t need.

52. Limit snacks at home to popped corn, fruit & vegetables.

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/tk-kitchenbudget.html

Save Money in the Kitchen

BY TAWRA KELLAM & JILL COOPER

For many people, cutting back on their grocery budgets can be an overwhelming experience. They know they’re spending too much, but don’t know where to begin to cut. Often, they fear that they will deprive themselves and their children if they become frugal. The good news is that there are ways to have your cake, eat it and save money at the same time. The whole secret is to start slowly. There are countless ways you can cut, but if you need to, target just one thing at a time - you will still be saving money if you do only one thing. If you are a frugal beginner, try these simple suggestions from my cookbook, Not Just Beans, (www.notjustbeans.com) for saving on your food bill:

~Cooking frugally is like changing your diet. You need to learn gradually how to save money and cook frugally. Don’t expect that you will get your food bill down to $150 for four people in the first month if you are spending $600 a month right now.

~Try cutting just $25.00 or $50.00 a month. Even if you cut back only $50.00 a month, you will save $600.00 a year. If you save just $1.00 a day that is $365.00 a year. You can then apply that $365.00 a year to paying off your credit cards. At 21% interest, you will save over $70 a year. This will eventually cause a snowball effect since the more you pay off, the less you pay to interest. When you pay less to interest, you have more each month to apply to paying off your overall debt. This means that as you pay off the debt, the rate that you can pay it off increases.

~Before you shop, take a tour through your pantry and your refrigerator. Be organized! Don’t buy what’s already hiding in your kitchen.

~If you’re a fan of coupons, remember this: It’s not what you save, it’s what you spend. If you save 30 cents on something you wouldn’t ordinarily buy anyway, you haven’t really saved anything.

~A typical fruit item is significantly larger than one serving. Most people would be just as happy eating a small apple as eating a large one — so buy smaller fruits! You will save money by the pound.

~This month, try two meatless meals a week (or one, if you’re a diehard meat fan).

~Make simple meals. One-dish meals can contain your meat, your vegetable and your bread.

To order Not Just Beans, 50 Years of Frugal Family Favorites visit or send check or money order for $14.95 to: Not Just Beans, P.O. Box 4252, Wichita, KS 67204.

For many people, cutting back on their grocery budgets can be an overwhelming experience.

Most people don’t think they can live the frugal life and still be comfortable. I feed my family of four on $125 month. Over five years, when my husband earned an average of $22,000 per year, we paid off $20,000 debt. When cutting your grocery bill and paying off debt, it’s the little things that add up. If you are a frugal beginner, try these simple suggestions from my cookbook, Not Just Beans, (www.notjustbeans.com) for saving on your food bill:

~Drink water for your meals.

*If your family is used to drinking milk, juice or pop for every meal then start by cutting juice from one meal or snack a day and drinking only water. After you get used to this, cut from another meal until you drink only water for meals and a glass of juice or milk at snack time.

*You can also try allowing one glass of juice at meal times and then water after it is gone.

* You save over $500.00 a year by cutting just one glass of juice per person per day for a family of four.

~Don’t assume homemade is cheaper. If you get a VERY GOOD deal on chocolate chips and ingredients for candies, it is cheaper to make them than buying them pre-made. Make sure you do the calculations, though! If you don’t purchase them on sale, homemade candies can be more expensive than candies purchased at the store.

~ Stop wasting food. Give young children small portions. They can always have more if they are still hungry. Give them a half glass of juice and a half sandwich so you don’t waste uneaten food. Put food in the refrigerator right after the meal so it doesn’t spoil. Use leftovers for lunches, in other dishes or frozen in one portion sizes for a quick meal.

~Don’t buy everything at one store.

Prices vary greatly from one store to the next. Go to different stores to buy only their sale items. You will save more than the cost of your gas. It usually only takes half an hour to 45 minutes per store to get the items that are on sale including driving time. If you save a minimum of $20-$30 per trip, it is like “earning” $40-$60 an hour. If I save $60 spending one hour going to two different stores, it is five extra hours my husband does not have to work for us to pay for that same food purchased at the regular price. I would rather have him home with us.

~ Remember cooking frugally is a mind set. You have to change your cooking and eating habits. Don’t get discouraged if one idea fails. Try another one.

~Stop buying things like toaster pastries and breakfast bars for breakfast. Eat oatmeal, pancakes, granola and fruit instead.

~Don’t assume that bulk is cheaper. Compare cost by the ounce or pound.

Granola Bars

¾ cup brown sugar
½ cup sugar
½ cup margarine, softened
2 Tbsp. honey or corn syrup
½ tsp. vanilla
1 egg
1 cup flour
¼ tsp. salt
½ tsp. baking soda
1 ½ cups oatmeal
1 ¼ cups crispy rice cereal, or crushed bran flakes, corn flakes or crushed graham crackers
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 cup chocolate chips*
In a large bowl, cream sugars and margarine until fluffy. Add honey, vanilla and egg. Mix well. Blend in flour, cinnamon, baking soda and salt. Stir in remaining ingredients. Press firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x13 pan. Bake at 350< for 20-25 minutes. To microwave: Press ingredients into a microwave-safe dish. Microwave on medium power for 7-9 minutes. Rotate dish every three minutes. Bars will firm as they stand. Cool and cut into bars. Save the crumbs for yogurt or ice cream topping. Makes 24 bars.

*The following may be used in addition to or to replace chocolate chips:

1 cup coconut

½ cup creamy or chunky peanut butter

½ cup nuts

½-1 cup raisins, dried apples, apricots

½ cup fruit preserves

_______________________________________
Author:

If you would like free tips and recipes from Not Just Beans: 50 Years of Frugal Family Favorites, please visit our website at www.notjustbeans.com.

To order Not Just Beans, 50 Years of Frugal Family Favorites visit or send check or money order for $14.95 to: Not Just Beans, P.O. Box 4252, Wichita, KS 67204.

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/dhu_sinus.html

Sinus Headaches and Natural Remedies,/div

by David H. Urmann

It is important for people to know the risk factors, diagnosis and natural treatments of sinus headaches. This will allow them to identify the best essential oils for sinus headache aromatherapy.

Sinus headaches are often experienced by people who suffer sinusitis or inflamed sinus. It is prone to be experienced by people with:

• Asthma or hay fever history

• Nasal augmentation (nodules) - these are small grape-sized polyps found on top of the nose. This condition leads to a narrower nasal cavity thus forming mucous.

• Mold, pollen, smoke, and dust mite allergies

• A frail immune system or immunity problems

• A state that affects the way mucus moves inside the upper respiratory system, like cystic fibrosis.

• Constant colds

• Ear/ tooth/ tonsil infections

• Facial injuries that affect sinuses like nose deformities

• Alterations or changes in temperature like swimming or climbing in elevated altitudes

If the patient is not sure whether he/she has a sinus headache, The best way is to consult a physician. The following procedures are performed:

• Physical examination which includes checking on nasal discharge and congestion.
• X ray tests or transillumination thru nasal endoscopy (light shining in to the sinuses)
• MRI
• CT Scan

Natural remedies for sinus headache include:

• Cold towel compress in forehead area or alternate with hot compress and hot footbath
• Eating spicy foods like Cajun recipes
• The use of Chinese herbals like Magnolia flower, angelica, mint and chrysanthemum
• Air moisturizers like steam vaporizers
• Light head and neck exercises
• Relaxation techniques and get enough rest or sleep
• The use of saline nasal spray to loosen mucous
• Acupressure techniques on the nostril sides
• Aromatherapy or the use of essential oils. This procedure involves mixture of aromatic oil and carrier oils. These oils can be use as massage oils, bath oils or can be placed in cotton balls as inhalators.

The following are list of essential oils:

- Lavender oil - is the safest and gentlest oil.
- Peppermint oil works best on sinus headaches. It is effectively used for chest and neck massage. It is refreshing and can be used at daytime.
- Oregano oil is an anti fungal and anti bacterial oil used for sinus treatments.
- Eucalyptus oil is the most versatile oil and very effective for respiratory infection treatments.
- Tea tree oil is an antifungal, healing oil used for sinus relief.
- Ginger oil is a mint oil.
- Wintergreen oil has methyl salicylate great for massages.
- Marjoram oil is helps alleviate sinus headaches.
- Thyme oil is another essential oil used mostly in aromatherapy healing bath
- Rosemary oil is another incensier and essential oil for sinus relief

Alternative Therapy

• Acupuncture

This is part of traditional Chinese medicine. It involves inserting metal needles at the pain area thru hands or electric signals. This aims to stabilize serotonin and release endorphin. Some acupuncturists also perform moxibustion. This includes the use of burnt herb mugwort.

• Chiropractic

Well trained chiropractic alleviates pain to improve sinus drainage. There are no existing studies conducted however some people are already practicing it.

• Mind and Body Techniques

This includes yoga, meditation and biofeedback exercises. Some of the popular techniques are the Pranayama and Yoga Asanas. This is a combination of the physical movements and breathing exercises of the Yoga practice.

• Homeopathic remedies

The use of fast, easy and convenient ready made all natural tablets. Some popular products are sinus busters and boiron.

The Author:

For more information on Sinus headaches and Sinus Medication please visit our website.

Source: www.isnare.com

[If you don’t have the Essential Oils, use the regular herb in your kitchens....granny]

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/gf_anxiety.html

Different Herbs for Anxiety Treatment

By: Greg Frost

Anxiety disorders are a common problem, affecting approximately 20 million adults and children in America. Anxiety is a common emotion consisting of uncertainty and worry faced by many, whilst anxiety disorders are when such fears are experienced irrationally. There are many treatments available, ranging from medication to therapy and alternative treatments. One treatment is through using natural herbal supplements.

Natural herbs are less costly than medication, and consist of herbs, vitamins and botanicals. They can be taken individually, or with other supplements, but it is best to first consult your doctor before deciding on natural herbs as a treatment for anxiety disorders. They also have the advantage of having no side effects, as compared to medications which can result in side effects such as nausea. Below are some common herbs used in anxiety disorders treatment.

1. Passion Flower

This is a natural plant that is used to treat anxiety, amongst other ailments. Its has unique calming properties, and can also reduce body tremors from fear. It promotes better sleep, and can act as a painkiller. It also contains anti depressants, and is used for high blood pressure and epilepsy.

2. Lavender

This is a more popular alternative than the passion flower, and is also known for its calming properties. It is also one of the more effective treatments for panic attacks, and is a tonic for the nervous system.

3. Lemon Balm

This is used to calm the digestive and nervous system, and also reduces blood pressure. It is uncertain if used alone, lemon balm is effective for treating anxiety attacks. It is usually taken with Valerian, Chamomile or Passion flower.

4. Kava

It is an effective tranquilizer, and whilst it is not an addictive substance, research suggests that it may be linked to liver problems.

5. Valerian

This is another natural plant used for treating anxiety. It also promotes better sleep, allowing for the body to rest and recuperate.

6. Chamomile

Chamomile flower leaves are used to make tea, and is a natural alternative for treating anxiety. It also reduces fever, encourages sleep and enhances the body’s metabolism.

7. Dandelion

The roots and leaves are used to treat the body’s internal systems, and through it, provide relief for some of the symptoms of anxiety. It is commonly used in salads and tea, and can also be used as a substitute for coffee.

There are many natural treatments available, and herbs have been used for treating illnesses for centuries. However, do keep in mind that it is not a quick fix, and can only alleviate the symptoms of anxiety attacks. It is advisable to seek out behavioral or cognitive therapy so as to eliminate the root of the problem causing anxiety attacks.

The Author

Greg Frost is an authority figure in the Anxiety Treatment field and director of http://www.attackanxiety.org/, a company that provides a variety of Anxiety Attacks information to assist people in treatment

source: articlecity.com

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/rf_therapeutic.html

Flowers Can Be Therapeutic

By: Rosie Flores

Besides the myriads of beautiful things that flowers are known for, they are also have a therapeutic effect on us. Flowers just make you feel good, and you like having flowers around as much as possible. Flowers have the power to lift your spirits.

A thing of beauty is joy forever and flowers surpass everything in beauty. A room full of aromatic flowers makes you feel good and your stress seems to dissolve in the wonderful scent of those flowers. Giving and receiving flowers has a charm beyond compare. You just feel you’re on cloud nine with flowers around you.

Until now there was not any scientific reason or research to prove that flowers could actually affect your mood and make you happy. However now there is a scientific backing to the claims about the flower power. The researchers at Rutgers University after doing a 10-month study came to a conclusion that there is a linkage between flowers and moods and this research could prove to be the foundation stone of a whole new paradigm in therapy. This has now led to emergence of a new form of therapy- the flowers therapy.

The researchers have discovered that there is an instant effect on a person’s mood when you receive flowers. You break into a smile involuntarily irrespective of your age or your temperament.

Even those who were feeling low and were in a depressed mood felt good almost immediately after receiving a gift of flowers. No wonder, we have the tradition to take flowers when we go to see someone in the hospital. Flowers have a healing touch. They make people feel more optimistic and look at the brighter side of life.

Science hasn’t discovered anything new. You’ve always known this about flowers from personal experience. Science has only strengthened your opinion with solid proof. Flowers make us happy and remove the tension making us more creative. In return, the least you can do is take good care of them when you receive them so that they’ll last a long time.

How do you keep flowers fresh and make them last? First, keep them in a cool spot, away from direct sunlight and far from appliances like televisions and computers that give off heat. Secondly, mix the flower food with water exactly as the instructions say. Next, remove any leaves below the waterline in your vase. Also, it’s a good idea to re-cut the stems of the flowers to help increase water uptake. Finally, always remove any flowers or leaves when they die so that the remaining flowers keep fresh and look great.

The Author

Rosie Flores is the administrator of GT Flowers, your source for your flower needs. Find your bloomers at: www.gtflowers.com

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/infections.html

Protect Your Health From Infections

BY Linda Patterson, R.N., M.S.N.

An infection is the growth of unwanted bacteria, viruses, or other one-celled organisms in the body. Infections interfere with the normal body functions. Once an infection becomes established, you should contact a physician about possible medical treatment.

Viruses and bacteria are everywhere, but they do not always cause infections. An infection happens when a disease-causing organism enters a body system (e.g., respiratory, reproductive, or digestive system) where conditions allow it to live and multiply. Whether or not this happens depends on how the organism enters the body, what kind and how many viruses and bacteria are contacted, and the health of the person involved.

Reduce Infections

Since viruses and bacteria that cause infections cannot be seen, you may ignore them or fear the illnesses they can cause. A more effective approach is to try to increase the ability of your body to resist infection, avoid the activities that make infection more likely, and reduce the contact with bacteria and viruses, whenever possible, by using common sense precautions.

Maximize Your Body’s Resistance To Viruses And Bacteria

Regularly review your immunizations with a health-care provider. You do not need to be an expert on immunizations... you do need to ask for a review of your immunizations regularly, even if your health provider doesn’t mention it. Never assume you or any dependent family member have had all the shots.

Carefully use antibiotics and only after asking your doctor about alternative treatments. Find out what the likelihood is that you will heal without antibiotics. If you reach a mutual decision to use antibiotics, be sure you find out how to take them correctly. Frequent or ineffective use of antibiotics can reduce your body’s defenses against later infection.

Take care of your body defenses by eating a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, getting adequate rest and relaxation, and exercising moderately on a regular basis. Prompt attention to skin irritations, cuts, and scrapes will also maintain your most effective barrier against viruses and bacteria.

Avoid Activities That Make Infections More Likely

Avoid sharing personal items, such as razors, drinking glasses, cosmetics, manicure equipment, pierced earrings, medical equipment or needles, combs, brushes, towels and washcloths, hats, and toothbrushes. Sharing these items may also share lice, fungus infections, and assorted bacteria and viruses.

Develop habits that discourage the spread of bacteria and viruses. For example:

Avoid touching the face, especially the eyes, nose, and mouth, with dirty hands.

Use tissues carefully, and dispose of them in the trash after a single use.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or clean hands when you sneeze or cough...the velocity of a cough can be 60 miles or more per hour.

Use effective housekeeping to avoid infection. Focus housekeeping on your laundry, kitchen, and bathroom. Use the cleaning solutions described in the section on Common Sense Precautions. Keep toothbrushes away from the toilet, and disinfect or replace toothbrushes regularly. To disinfect a toothbrush, run it through a dishwasher cycle or soak it in a mild solution of 1 tablespoon bleach solution in 2 gallons of water, and rinse well. Also use this mild solution of bleach to disinfect kitchen counters, sinks, and cutting boards in the kitchen. Eating utensils can be rinsed in hot water or washed in the dishwasher. If you want to avoid the chances of infections even more, change towels, pillowcases, washcloths, socks, and underwear frequently, and wash them with a disinfectant for laundry.

Avoid risky sexual and drug use behaviors that expose you to deadly diseases. If you are not sure if your behaviors are risky, refer to Extension Publication 1951, HIV: Plain Talk, or ask for information from your health provider, the local department of health, or a substance abuse/chemical dependency treatment center. You can also call the Mississippi State University Extension Service in your county, or the U.S. Public Service AIDS Hotline at 1-800-342-2437, 1-800-344-7432 (Spanish) or 1-800-343-7889 (hearing impaired).

Use Common Sense Precautions

Body fluids that may be infected with bacteria or viruses include blood, male and female sexual fluids, saliva, vomit, urine, and feces. There is a high risk of infection with HIV (AIDS virus) and Hepatitis B, when infected body fluids enter the body through sexual contact or shared drug equipment. Although the risk is remote with other types of contact with these infected body fluids, experts do recommend some precautions. Some of these precautions are easily adapted for daily life and make good sense because they also protect you from other viruses and bacteria.

Wear gloves during cleaning of body fluids or dirty items; bandage any cuts or scrapes before putting on gloves. Remove the gloves without touching the dirty side, and wash hands after removing the gloves. Disposable latex gloves are best; reusable gloves may spread infection.

Take care with trash; never push down the trash with hands or feet, or reach into the trash. Empty the trash onto a newspaper to search for missing items with eyes instead of hands. Dispose of sharp items in a puncture-resistant container.

Clean up body fluids and bathrooms with an EPA-approved germicide labeled “tuberculocidal,” or use a 1:100 solution of bleach (1 tablespoon bleach per cup of water or 1/4 cup bleach to a gallon of water) after using disposable gloves and towels to clean any body fluids that can be seen. Dispose of the towels and gloves in a plastic bag, and soak mops in a bleach solution for 10 minutes after use. Be alert to the hazards of bleach or other chemicals.

Wash and dry hands thoroughly after using the toilet, cleaning jobs, and before eating or preparing food. Excessive hand washing may be harmful if skin irritation occurs, but regular washing with a mild soap is helpful. The use of an anti-bacterial soap can reduce bacteria and viruses, but the decision must be balanced against the risk of skin irritation.

Protecting your health and the health of those around you depends on many factors that may seem overwhelming when they are discussed at the same time. Chances are that most of these precautions are a routine part of your life. Other strategies may be new. As with most life changes, practice will make it all seem simple. If you avoid even an occasional illness by using the tips mentioned, life will seem that much nicer.

The Author

Linda Patterson, R.N., M.S.N., Extension Health Education Specialist . Extension Service of Mississippi State University. For further information visit http://msucares.com/health/health04/index.html

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/tj_cooktips.html

Simple Substitutions for Common Ingredients

By: Thomas Jorgensen

Even the most accomplished and well organised cooks sometimes go to the cupboard and find that whatever they needed desperately and immediately is not there. Some of us live close to a grocery store and we can nip out, whilst for others it can be quite a challenge. Below are a few very common ingredients for which there are substitutes.

Some of the most commonly used ingredients have very simple substitutions available when you are in a bind. One teaspoon of baking powder can be replaced by 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda plus 5/8 teaspoon cream of tartar or 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda plus 1/2 cup of buttermilk. One cup of butter can be substituted with 7/8 cup of shortening or 1 cup of margarine. Oil is not an exact substitute for butter especially if butter is needed in baking products.

It’s difficult to always stock all types of sugar but there are alternatives that you can choose from. for one cup of light brown sugar, use one cup of white sugar and one teaspoon of molasses and for one cup of dark sugar use one cup of white sugar and one tablespoon of molasses. Instead of one cup of white sugar you could either use one and three quarters of a cup of powdered (confectioners’) sugar or one cup of packed brown sugar. If you need a sweet liquid like corn syrup you could use one cup of sugar plus a quarter of a cup of liquid or honey.

If you need chocolate you’ll find that one ounce of is the same as three tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa and one tablespoon of fat. Instead of one tablespoon of cornstarch you could use two tablespoons of flour; instead of one tablespoon of flour (for thickening) try half a tablespoon of cornstarch; and instead of one cup sifted flour (for cooking) you could be really radical and try one and a half cups of bread crumbs or one cup of rolled oats. Lastly, instead of one cup of shortening you could use one cup and two tablespoons of butter or margarine.

If you want to add flavour to your meals with spices you can try stocking dried herbs and spices rather than fresh. For instance, instead of one clove of garlic you could substitute one eighth of a teaspoon of garlic powder or one teaspoon of chopped garlic. Instead of one teaspoon of dry mustard you could use one tablespoon of prepared mustard; one tablespoon of onion powder is the same as either one medium, or four tablespoons of freshly chopped onion.

Remember that some of the best recipes around have been ‘cooked’ up by people desperately trying to cover their tracks; so the advice would be ‘be bold, be daring, but use your initiative!’

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Thomas Jorgensen is the editor and webmaster of “Cooking Flair” www.cookingflair.com a premier cooking and cooking school information site on the Internet. For more information following this article please pay a visit.
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The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/nutritionwise.html

Weekly column for the week of: March 3, 2009

Nutrition Wise

by Karen Collins, MS, RD, CDN

For American Institute for Cancer Research

Q:Some sources refer to Yerba Maté as a risk factor for cancer but others say it is very healthful. What’s up?

A: Yerba Maté, from the plant of the same name, is popular in parts of South America, where it is consumed through a metal straw as a scalding hot beverage. It’s spreading rapidly in the United States and Europe either as a tea or as an ingredient in foods and dietary supplements. Yerba Maté (also simply called maté) is high in antioxidant compounds called polyphenols. In laboratory studies, maté has protected DNA exposed to damaging chemicals and enhanced DNA repair. However, analysis also shows that both the leaves and hot or cold infusions made from them contain high levels of apparently cancer-causing compounds called PAHs. Population studies have linked maté to increased incidence of cancers of the mouth and throat. But it’s not clear how much of the link seen is related to alcohol and smoking. In a review of the research, the 2007 AICR report identifies the primary concern of maté as a probable link to increased risk of esophageal cancer. But the report attributes this risk mainly to damage from the scalding hot temperatures at which it is traditionally consumed; such heat can lead to inflammation and leave cells vulnerable to cancer development. We need further research before we will know whether maté served at safer temperatures increases, decreases or does not change risk of cancer.

Q:How much weight will I lose if I switch all my sweets and snack foods to low fat or sugar-free versions?

A: I’d reconsider relying on this as a strategy for weight loss. These products aren’t necessarily any lower in calories because producers may add other ingredients to make up for the change in taste or texture when they take out fat or sugar. Believing that they are “diet foods” could even set you up for trouble. Studies suggest that when we think a food is healthier or less fattening, we tend to eat larger amounts. The harder, but healthier and more long-lasting change is to eat less processed sweets and snack foods. Try replacing one or two daily servings of processed snacks with fruit, raw veggies, a small handful of nuts or some other nutrient-supplying food.

Q: What’s the difference between kefir and yogurt?

A: Both are cultured dairy products, but whereas yogurt’s cultures are all bacteria, kefir (pronounced kef-EAR) is produced with more different bacteria cultures plus yeast. Both are good sources of protein and calcium. Yogurt tends to be about 20 calories per serving higher than kefir with comparable fat and sugar levels. But the biggest difference in calorie content is not between these two products, but between products made from whole, low fat or nonfat milk. Both yogurt and kefir also take major calorie jumps from “plain” to “fruit” versions, which usually contain added sugar too (unless an artificial sweetener is used). You may hear claims that kefir is a potent anti-cancer weapon that can slow growth of cancer cells and boost levels of immune cells that defend against cancer. But that’s based on preliminary research and has not been confirmed in humans. Both products offer the benefits of probiotic cultures that may promote digestive health. Both make a great base for smoothies and cold fruit soups or a topping for cereal or fruit. Choose whichever has the taste and texture you like, keeping a watch on sugar and saturated fat content. Nutrition Wise Archives 2009 The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) is the cancer charity that fosters research on the relationship of nutrition, physical activity and weight management to cancer risk, interprets the scientific literature and educates the public about the results. It has contributed more than $86 million for innovative research conducted at universities, hospitals and research centers across the country. AICR has published two landmark reports that interpret the accumulated research in the field, and is committed to a process of continuous review. AICR also provides a wide range of educational programs to help millions of Americans learn to make dietary changes for lower cancer risk. Its award-winning New American Plate program is presented in brochures, seminars and on its website, www.aicr.org. AICR is a member of the World Cancer Research Fund International.