NEVERTHELESS, WHEAT FOR MAN

I'm astounded

2010-03-20T12:39:00.002-06:00

Went to buy a bookcase. It was boxed so I loaded it in the cart and then the car. When I got home I saw "team lift" on the box and wondered why that would be there. I then saw the weight was 70 pounds. I was soooooo surprised. Something good is happening!!!!

I've still be eating lots of wheat, and much of that is in the sprouted form. I been amazed at what is happening to my body as I look in the mirror. The weight is staying about the same - I think it's because I eat a little of the "other" stuff that is cooked for dinner. I feel the colon is getting cleaner. It's fun to behold.

Started to run. The last time I ran, I could hardly do it. Again, I was very pleasantly surprised as I was able to run quite a ways before having to walk and then again re-cooperated quickly and began running again.

This is sooooo fun.

So what about almond milk?

2010-03-04T09:01:00.004-07:00

I've made almond milk and have been using it and quite enjoy it but I now question --- what about the "whole" of the almond?

I do not have the answer but I so feel, I as "man", have broken it down and I'm losing the results of the "whole".

I know after my 10 days of eating wheat, I'm eating so much better than I've ever eaten in my life; but, my body is gradually going back to where it was. I find this so interesting. It should not be going back but continuing in a forward state. I've complicated the eating some - meaning eating more things together and this very well could be the reason.

Is it our eating such a variety of so many things in a meal and then dessert and all else that we've really done a number on the ways of God and how He created it to be? I just feel so much better when it is so simple.

Will the world catch on to this? As I've been to several "whole food" sites, I'm quite amazed at their simpleness but yet, there is making it complicated, too. But, even though a bit complicated, the results of eating that way seem to be the usual astounding of feeling so much better.

I need another mental adjustment!!! I need to let go of the world's (and my) thinking of eating meals and get a new thinking!!!!

Simple and whole ---- and wheat will be a part of that!

"Whole"

2010-03-04T08:50:00.005-07:00

When taking the herb class, they taught about the constituents of plants. Take for instance, Comfrey. It is a powerful herb and helps in many wonderful ways. One of the constituents was isolated, sold by itself and then synthetically made. And whoops! It killed a couple of people.

So -- the FDA says Comfrey is not safe to take internally. Now notice, they did not say the constituent was the problem. They banned the plant from being used in anything taken internally. And did you know, most of our medicines are made "from" plant constituents? There is another plant that has a carcinogenic constituent. The FDA is considering banning the use of this plant. But, when you take it as a "whole", the other constituents are antidotal to that carcinogenic constituent. That is there to protect the plant.

God is so all knowing. This is just so awesome to learn.

And now -- after having a couple weeks to absorb this, and feeling badly for the trusting souls that we are in those that provide the medicines prescribed, and also knowing of the powers behind the drug industry and that it's all about the money..... what can one say? I just know I want to learn to eat right and learn about all of God's creations and how they are provided by Him for our help and well-being.

Day 25 - The 10-day eating wheat is done

2010-02-26T17:54:00.013-07:00

I have so many thoughts running through my head - the theories of the whys and becauses and all I have learned. I am so excited where this has brought me and I'm so excited for what I believe is yet to come.

First off --- the report of the weight lifting. But I do need to tell you that I'm a wimp in the shoulder/chest area - always have been. I rode horses lots and was so envious of those who could get themselves on bareback without having something to stand on. Knowing this, I decided to do the thing that is the most challenging for me to test my strength.

In the beginning, I did 11 chest presses with the bar that weighs 45 pounds, 13 bicep curls with 10 pound weights and 35 crunches. This morning, I did 11 chest presses. It was the same - no strength gained, no strength lost. Am I disappointed? I think just a teeny bit in that one thing --- but --- I did do 15 bicep curls and 50 crunches. That last one was a huge surprise. But all in all I was pleased! Was the test a success? To me, it is a resounding YES!!!!

I looked in the body-length mirror this morning and smiled because there is shaping to my liking going on with my body. I got on the scales and there was another 1 1/2 pounds gone.

I know my body is healing. (See the post on 3/23/2009) I can feel it. Would it have been the same without eating the wheat? I do not know for sure but when I considered that I've done green smoothies for about a year now and have done it faithfully, I've not accomplished this kind of success.

When I awoke this morning, I felt wonderful. When I progressed in my day, I felt a little sluggish off and on. I think this is typical of these 10 days. Could it be that what seems to be an adverse reaction is the body utilizing what it's been given which causes detoxing? I believe it very well could be. I believe when I don't feel like eating, the body is saying, "don't send anymore until we get this roadblock cleared and the gunk on the move." When I feel a bit sluggish and yet still feel hungry, my body is saying, "give me a little more power to help move this along". Wheat is such a good fiber -- is this one of the reasons for the "Nevertheless, wheat for man"? I know I don't get the same result with oatmeal and when I eat the grain mixes, I don't think I get the same result either. I think I need to check this out! Ah, another test. lol

Will I keep eating wheat? That is also a big YES! Will I keep eating it as often as I've been doing? Yes, but will be incorporating it with other things that my family will also be more involved. It probably won't be as often as the whole meals have been; but yet, I've kind of grown to like it that way. But -- I do know I learned one really important thing and that is when I am going through that "what can I eat?" feeling, I'm going to eat wheat because I've never been so satisfied so quickly and it didn't take that much of it.

Oh, one more interesting thing that seems to be happening -- my appetite is increasing. When I eat, I'm eating more. Figure that one out! Maybe my body is being able to utilize more of the nutrients and so wants more!!! I hope so. I'm sure it's been "starving" for nutrients for years because it just couldn't utilize them. I do know the increase is not from activity. I've spent way too much time sitting on my you know what at the computer! lol

What a fun road to be on -- so many questions, so many theories, some answers and lots of learning. So much to look forward to and exercise, you are on that list!

Day 24 - Continued learning - no surprise there!

2010-02-25T20:00:00.002-07:00

I am so looking forward to walking and exercising. I've not done that because I want an apples to apples comparison if lifting a couple weights. The weather makes it VERY inviting!

I had green smoothie for breakfast. It was so light and tasty. Wheat sprouts, apple pieces and cinnamon for lunch. It was also tasty.

I made more almond milk and I just can't throw away the pulp. I dried it from the previous making. I decided to make one loaf of bread and put it in it - 2 cups wheat flour and 1 white. It turned out okay!! I had a crust, then a slice and then the other crust. It tasted very yummy and I did get full. Didn't eat dinner - just drinking lots of water.

Found a new site today. It's about eating raw and I especially liked a post entitled, Welcome To Raw Food Right Now 2.0 I think it's going to save me a lot of time getting to where I want to be. They seem to have already been on this road and where I seem to be heading and seem to be where I feel the balance will be. Gives me hope! However, couldn't find much "wheat for man" in it. Will be studying this site a bit more - lots to learn.

Day 23 - Simple

2010-02-23T21:30:00.004-07:00

Had wheat berries stored in fridge and almond milk for breakfast, a sandwich with tomato and alfalfa sprouts (lots of them)for lunch and wheat sprouts for dinner with red sauce on them. It's been a good day for eating wheat -- simple, quick, sustaining and was tasty to me.

Have to admit, I'm counting down for day 10. I'm so consumed with making sure I get wheat eaten. It's going to be fun to let this Daniel part go and zero in on more of a variety of whole foods but still with lots of grains. I'm a bit nervous. What if it doesn't make any difference? Then I'll be thinking I need to do it again to determine why. I need to go to my faith place -- now!

Day 22 - A little bit of hunger going on

2010-02-23T21:15:00.002-07:00

I woke up feeling hungry and ate cream of wheat cereal. Always yummy to me. Of course I used some almond milk! Had a green smoothie for snack. Granola for lunch. Had a later than usual dinner of leftover red sauce and spaghetti squash and I was hungry. I finished it off and that was more than I thought I would eat. Guess I keep mentioning the hungry because yesterday I just wasn't and am kind of glad to see today that I am.

This is all sounding so same-eeee, I'm sure. But, it does taste so good to me. I'm missing bread - gotta do something in that area one of these days. I've not done many nuts and seeds and really need to get them in here. I'm hoping they don't have an effect on the strength test at the end, but they are the protein so it just may be. Time just passes too quickly and I surely don't get all done that I would like to!

More gluten intolerance

2010-02-23T10:33:00.006-07:00

Another friend called me yesterday. She's really identifying wheat is not good for her. She hasn't been diagnosed but the reaction to eating wheat definitely says there is a problem.

I then read on a health site this morning, "Millions of people have celiac disease,.... Infertility seems to be more common in women with untreated celiac disease."

In a class years ago, a lady was teaching people about the nutrients of wheat and when infertile couples started eating the "whole" grain, they got pregnant. She emphasized the "whole" of the grain. She related many other cases of better health because of eating the whole grain. In today's modern world, most things that are made are made with the constituents of the whole -- not the "whole". Is this the problem? I so desire to know why.

I've just recently learned that herbs as a whole are so complete and powerful. When broken down, and only specific constituents are used, they become dangerous. Is it the same with wheat. I did not have this thought until writing but it very well could be the answer to my knowing why.

And what if the damage has been done to the body? Can it be repaired? Yes, it can! It has been done. If a person were to eat whole foods and cleanse the colon so it could heal and function properly, many of those problems would not be there. The body is a magnificent thing -- it repairs and rebuilds if we just give it the chance.

And it is sooooo funny, NO ONE, yet, will admit their colon could not be functioning properly. I do know mine isn't and now I'm wondering how long it will take for this to be accomplished. I know with time, patience and learning I will yet be successful.

Onward and upward!!!

Almond milk

2010-02-22T21:00:00.001-07:00

When thinking about making almond milk, I always imagined way more almonds than it takes. I was quite surprised with the yield from not too many almonds. I'm now drying the almond meal. It will be fun to use!!!!

Measure and soak almonds

You will be using about 3 cups of water for every 1 cup of raw almonds out of the shell. Soak overnight in enough water to cover with a little water more, to provide room for swelling. Another easier way to measure if you want to make 2 quarts or 2 liters at a time, is that 1 lb (or roughly a half kilo) of raw almonds out of the shell, makes a half gallon or 2 quarts or roughly 2 liters of creamy, rich almond milk when sufficient water is added after squeezing, to equal that volume. You can of course halve the water to make an almond cream suitable as coffee creamer, nog base, cream pies, or other uses where milk may be too thin.

Puree in blender or food processor

A quick whir in a powerful blender results in a thick, frothy almond puree, ready to be squeezed in a mesh bag or jelly bag, cheesecloth, or something similar. Simply place your cheesecloth or mesh strainer bag over the bowl, pour and scoop your puree into it, draw it closed, and start squeezing until the almond meal is as dry as you can get it. Don't add any more water at this point.

The harder you squeeze, the more creamy and nutritious your milk will be, but not to worry, any you don't get into the milk will still be eaten in the form of the almond meal, so there is nothing wasted. I use a fine plastic mesh drawstring bag that doubles as a shopping bag for small loose items like garlic or peppers.

Fine-strain for perfectly creamy results

I then pour the undiluted almond milk (that I just strained through the bag into a bowl) through a reusable gold metal mesh coffee cone filter. When it slows, gentle stirring makes filtering go faster. At the end, I press the bit of almond paste in the bottom to extract the last and creamiest bit. This finer, white almond meal is good to keep and dry separately and use as almond flour.

Add water to equal your total volume

I make this easier by straining it the second time directly into my glass half-gallon refrigerator pitcher, and then adding more water to fill the pitcher, but if you are making an amount different from a half gallon, proceed accordingly to get an end result of 3 cups of water for every cup of almond. You may thin it to taste by adding water, but better too rich than too thin, because too rich can be solved by adding water, but too thin is too bad.

Let "bloom" 24 hours in the fridge, add a bit of salt etc

Let it sit covered in the refrigerator pitcher for 24 hours. You will notice a creamy layer floats on top, but with a few gentle shaking sessions and a day or so in the refrigerator, it will blend nicely and taste superbly creamy. Once that has happened, add sweetener if you choose, and salt a pinch at a time, shaking in between and tasting, until the flavor goes from a little "flat" with no salt, to "better than any milk I ever tasted" (perfect). If not sure, hold back on another pinch of salt because one pinch too many ruins it. If you accidentally do add that one extra pinch past perfect taste, add more sweetener and it will no longer taste salty. Some add vanilla, others add almond extract or other flavors. You can even add dutched cocoa for a creamy sensation.

See how this clings to the glass like the freshest dairy milk? Commercial preparations use thickeners such as guar gum to achieve something similar but their results are inferior. It's hard not to drink it all up the first day, but it's even better the second. Keeps about a week in the refrigerator, but don't leave it out on the counter unless you want to experiment with raw almond yogurt or kefir.

Now you can enjoy lowcarb (depending on type and amount of sweetener if any) delicious vegan milk useful in vegan nogs, cream soups, mac-n-cheese, cream pies, alfredo, and so forth, whilst saving money over wasteful inferior pasteurized storebought concoctions, and keep your almond meal for the same price!

As for the almond meal, that may be another Instructable, but briefly, you spread it out on a half-sheet in a 300 degree F oven stirring a few times here and there until toasty and dry. Store in a jar, use as breadcrumbs, crumb crusts, breading, stuffing, cookies, cakes, and bars, or make into low glycemic granola.

Day 21 - Time is passing quickly

2010-02-22T19:00:00.001-07:00

Today is the sixth day of eating wheat. It is going by very quickly.

I fasted this morning -- trying to give my body a good opportunity to get rid of yesterday's food and some other special reasons. It was a wonderful morning.

I fed the boys the granola stuff I made as cereal along with a little raisin bran. One really liked it and the other one ate it but needed a bit of regular cereal after. lol

I finished up some carrot juice for lunch - didn't really feel like eating. If it takes my body this long to get to a norm after eating crappily, I can only imagine how the body really feels when we just over-inundate it over and over and over. I've done that all my life. Sad.

I had a small bowl of the granola stuff with some almond milk. I made some today and it was so easy. I don't know why in my mind I make everything so hard -- guess it's the unknown. I finally had some green smoothie in the evening. I'm just not feeling like eating. This is weird but I feel really good about it.

Day 20 - Two steps back

2010-02-21T23:00:00.000-07:00

And what did today bring? Lots of not doing the things I was supposed to!!!! And the result, we both were ornery and sluggish. Interesting. Can I blame all my orneriness onto food? This may have more truth to it than we really realize.

Did have green smoothie for breakfast. That was good. Lunch became eating more and more and not of the good stuff. One good thing though, is at the end of the day, I needed to at least have some wheat and this thought of granola just kept coming to mind. I dumped the rest of the wheat sprouts into the blender and added the rest of the coconut milk. I whizzed it a bit and then put it into a bowl and added oatmeal, honey, raisins, a bit of cinnamon, coconut, and almond pieces. I then remembered some stuff I had in the cupboard -- a dry mix of buckwheat, pumpkin and sunflower seeds and some other stuff (pretty good stuff actually) but there was just a little left. I added it and by that time, it was stiff enough to put in a dish. Put it in the fridge for an hour and then ate some. Pretty good for just putting into it whatever came to mind.
It felt good to be eating something that felt like it was a staple.

Dr. Pepper is food?

2010-02-20T20:32:00.002-07:00

I know I'm on a different road here than most of the world but really......!

Went shopping at local grocery store. I was asked if I'd like a bottle of Dr. Pepper which was on special. I said, "No thank you." I was then asked if I would like to donate "it" to the local "FOOD" bank. I politely said, "Not pop". Am I missing something here????

Food: nutriment in solid form

Nutriment: something that nourishes or promotes growth, provides energy, repairs body tissues, and maintains life.

Diastic malt

2010-02-20T18:31:00.001-07:00

Diastatic malt has long been a secret of professional bread makers in Europe. It is made from sprouted grains that have been dried and ground. In bread recipes, it replaces the sugar or honey needed to feed the yeast and brown the crust. Because diastatic malt is full of enzymes and vitamins, it increases the nutritional value of the bread. In addition, the action of the enzymes on the yeast and flour improves both the flavor and appearance of the bread; it creates a finer texture and helps the bread stay fresh.

Diastatic malt can be made at home using wheat berries, purchased from a health food store, and your food dehydrator. When using it in bread recipes, remember that it is very potent and only a small amount is needed.

Don't forget that your dehydrator makes a wonderful place to raise your bread.

The method: Place one cup of wheat berries in a wide-mouth glass jar and add 4 cups tepid water. Cover with a piece of nylon net; secure with a rubber band. Let soak about 12 hours. Drain off water (save for soup stock or use to water your plants - it’s full of minerals). Rinse well with tepid water, and drain completely. Repeat rinsing process 3 times a day for 2 days or until the little shoots are about the same length as the grains.

Rinse and drain once again. Place on teflon sheets and allow to dry at medium heat in your dryer. Grind dried sprouts to a fine flour in an electric grinder or blender. This will yield about 1 cup of diastatic malt. Store in a tightly closed glass jar in the refrigerator or freezer. It will keep indefinitely.

http://www.dryit.com/diastaticmalt.html

Day 19 - Feeling yuk after eating yuk

2010-02-20T18:15:00.001-07:00

As I pondered yesterday, I thought about how much cooking I'm doing. I know I'm doing kind of okay because we are eating healthier way more than ever before and way more consistently. But I need to zero in on raw again a bit. And then again, maybe winter should be more eating warmer foods than in the spring and summer. That is the season for fruits and veges. Ah - this might be justification! lol

I decided to try some coconut milk. Cooked a batch of oatmeal cereal for everyone for breakfast. Perfect time to try out that milk. I can do this. It was good and fun.

I put the sugar container on the table, thinking everyone (specifically my partner in all this) would do just a "touch"; but boy, I came to a standstill as I watched. I realized that even here I've progressed in my self control because I did not say a word. But later, when the time was right, I suggested he put a little in his spoon and then sprinkle it on his cereal and told him I didn't think he had any idea just how much he'd put on it and said it was at least one tablespoon and probably more. He just smiled at me in his "I know" look.

When I was doing a presentation on wheat, I made diastatic malt. You sprout the wheat, dry it, grind it and it's diastatic malt and it is EXTREMELY sweet - in fact, almost too sweet. However, it does go to show how much "sweet" is in sprouts. We do not need any added sweetener but some things just need a "touch".

We had sauteed mushrooms for lunch and we were both bloated and upset about an hour later. Funny. So hard to let go of the good memories of what you liked. It was a good lesson.

Pizza was ordered by the others in our house. We had a large glass of green smoothie and were going to have just a skinny slice. Neither one of us could even stand the thought of eating it. We are still very much feeling the results of the lunch. Amazing!!!! Again I'm proud of us for recognizing that and resisting. We very well could have eaten it anyway. We ARE progressing!!!

Update: Later in the evening I was at that point of "what can I eat" -- it's that time of night when before it was eat everything and never finding what you wanted. I realized I hadn't eaten wheat all day. Went and got some sprouts, added some coconut milk and half a banana and what a difference in the munchy cravings. I've always thought this was happening but tonight it is very evident that it does!!

Garlic and onions

2010-02-19T22:15:00.002-07:00

My growing up years did not have garlic and onions in them so this is kind of foreign to me. Through the years, my husband has acquainted me with them a bit and we do use onions quite a bit. Of course, at first, I had to think I didn't like them and then see that I did. It's kind of been the same now with garlic. The Authentic Italian Red Sauce was my beginning with the garlic. I can't believe I've missed out on this for most of my life. Since I've been doing the herb thing, our house smells like garlic and onions a lot ---- AND, DO YOU KNOW HOW GOOD THEY ARE FOR YOU!!!!! They are so power packed with medicinal qualities.

This is just sooooooooo fun!!!!

Authentic Italian Red Sauce

2010-02-19T22:00:00.000-07:00

3-4 TBLSP extra virgin olive oil
4-8 fresh garlic cloves **NOT garlic powder**
1 (29 oz) can of tomatoes (you can add another 14 oz can if you desire a milder sauce)
1/4 cup tomato paste
1/4 cup fresh basil, or as much fresh basil you desire **NOT dried basil**
1 tsp Better Than Boullion, beef flavor OR 1 beef bouillon cube
Mild cayenne pepper to taste **OPTIONAL** Not too much and not if kids are eating it. You can always add it to your own plate.

The secret to making it perfectly is to use the correct ingredients and, more importantly, you have to make it with love. Don't ever cook this when you're angry; it doesn't turn out right.

Blend up the tomatoes from the can so they are a fairly smooth consistency. Mince garlic with mincer and put in sauce pan with olive oil. don't be shy with the garlic. I use about 8 medium cloves. You'll think it's too much, but it's not. It really gives the sauce that kick. Turn on heat just until the garlic starts to really sizzle. Do not overcook the garlic. Do not let it turn color. It will loose its flavor and turn bitter. Add tomatoes to garlic and olive oil. Bring to a simmer. Add tomatoe paste, bouillon, fresh basil and cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer. Let cook a minute or two. Enjoy!!!! This does not need to cook a long time. It will actually loose its pungent flavor if you do. This sauce will store for a long time sealed properly and kept in the refrigerator.

The sauce is very good on many things: zucchini and onions sauteed in clarified butter and sea salt; thinly sliced cabbage (to resemble fettuccine) lightly steamed; spaghetti squash; baked potato; onion, carrots and yellow squash sauteed; buttered brown rice with cayenne on top, sauteed chicken or beef strips; for just a few

Day 18 - Dinner just for me? No one else liked it.

2010-02-19T21:30:00.000-07:00

Had wheat sprouts cooked a bit in a double boiler. I tasted them and I just couldn't identify what they reminded me of. Finally a few hours later when I tasted them again (they were a bit dryer and a little harder), I figured it out. They tasted just like pine nuts. It was awesome. That has some possibilities and if none other, to have a unique taste for breakfast.

We had a vege sandwich for lunch.

Dinner was a red sauce recipe given to me by my daughter-in-law. She went to Italy on her mission and they truly make it from scratch and there is very little cooking. I love it. I cooked a spaghetti squash and cabbage. I had both, along with some wheat sprouts, under my sauce.
This was NOT a big hit for the rest of the family -- in fact it wasn't even a little hit. I went to feel guilty and then had the thought that I should be entitled to a favorite once a year, I think? Or, why not even twice a year. lol

And so, one more day completed.

Day 17 - It's amazing that so little food is so satisying

2010-02-18T17:17:00.005-07:00

This always happens when one doesn't prepare!!! When one isn't home, one has a hard time when they get home and it's time for -- dinner!!!!

We had a salad and I forgot to put the wheat sprouts on it. I had one small strip of grilled chicken with it. We also had the plantain - cut in circles and browned/cooked in a little oil. I had about four of those. After dinner I made the green smoothie and put the wheat sprouts in it and had some. Too funny -- it's not the best green smoothie I've made and it's not because of the wheat sprouts. You win some, you come in fourth with some; this one is probably sixth (too much ginger and too many apples because they are too pulpee), but it wasn't the worst one I've ever made. lol

I did eat wheat sprouts this morning with some bran flakes and raisins. I added a bit of honey. Lunch was late so just grabbed an apple.

It really is amazing to just go and go and eat so little and be full and satisfied.

Day 16 - Let the eating wheat everyday begin

2010-02-17T15:59:00.008-07:00

Just learned that ninety percent (90%) of all disease starts in the colon. So I did some testing and we are not clean!!! The cleanse was just the beginning of what will probably be a several month process. I knew it wouldn't be instant but again I think I was in denial. For this, we are using Dr. Christopher's Formulas. They work! We can vouch for that by experience. There are surely some wonderful stories of people who have been to doctor after doctor for years and the healing results they've had using herbs.

I love the Lord's creations with a much greater vision than I've ever had before and now understand what the world does with God's creations. Many drugs are made from a plant- a part that has been isolated and then they sometimes even synthesize it. So sad!!!

We had sprouted wheat with 3 T of yogurt for breakfast. (Now we aren't supposed to be using dairy products but I had no time and this had to do - I know everyone can relate! lol) I had a green smoothie for lunch.

I fixed baked salmon and with that we had kind of a stir fry but I steamed the celery and broccoli and then added 1/2 of the bean sprouts. I then used about 1 T of butter and stir fried the other half of the bean sprouts and then put everything together and also added cooked wheat berries (wheat that has been boiled). Ya know -- it wasn't half bad. It all got eaten which surprised me.

Now I know I still have a long ways to go to get this down but I'm so pleased that today I ate wheat twice. I'm very blessed!!!! Answers to prayers are real!!!!!!!!!!

I did do some weight lifting this morning and will do the comparison after 10 days.

Day 15 - Detoxing? I think so.

2010-02-16T10:55:00.010-07:00

My husband is being so supportive!! It's awesome. I'm very pleased with my overcoming me. There have been rice crispy treats on the cupboard and I was only tempted a couple of times but the temptation was easily overcome. This is very exciting to me.

We had cream of wheat cereal for breakfast. It was warm, tasty and filling. What a way to begin a day! I remembered that I wanted to do the 10 days of eating wheat everyday and decided I need to start tomorrow.

My general vitality has always been lower than my husband's so I've known I was worse off than he was -- yet he has all the worldly signs and on all the meds (heart trouble, high cholesterol and triglycerides and high blood pressure). He was who I was talking about the denial part. Yet, today I've realized I am really in denial. I'm worse off inside than he is. His turn around time of elimination after fasting was 36 hours and mine was 48. I must be detoxing off and on because I'm just off and on - quite interesting.

Just realized -- I wrote the above before I ran errands and as I was driving home, I was thinking about this day so far - not much energy, spacey, tired...... - and I remembered reading that detox happens in 7's - 7 days, 7 weeks, 7 months, 7 years. I then counted and today is day 7. I really AM detoxing!! I can now let go of wondering what is happening and enjoy the day as it is. It's kind of neat when you can zero into what your body feels and then recognize what is happening.

We had leftover potatoes (cut in really small cubes and browned) and black beans with salsa on them. Not much originality there!

Day 14 - Waited too long to decide what to fix for dinner

2010-02-15T22:00:00.000-07:00

Had green smoothies for breakfast and for lunch had 1/4 of a yellow, orange and red bell pepper.

Waited too long to really prepare something for dinner. Fed the rest of the family spaghetti and salad and we just had the salad and half a steamed sweet potato. We were both full and quite content.

While grocery shopping I saw those larger green bananas so I checked them out wondering why they were different. They were plantains. Now this really got my attention because in the herb class, that is a really good herb. So I did some research, of course on the internet and what a wonderful tool right at our fingertips, and learned a lot. We'll be having it for dinner one of these nights so everyone can taste it.

These two little boys keep me on track. They are constantly asking me if this food is healthy. One day a few weeks ago, one asked me why I didn't eat with them sometimes - was it because I was fasting or because it was unhealthy. I told him sometimes it was both reasons. He then said, "If it's because it's unhealthy, why do you feed it to us." Well, out of the mouths of babes... what else can I say - then or now. I was humbled, and still am as they ask questions in their desire to learn of eating God's created foods.

Day 13 - A day of roll with the flow

2010-02-14T21:30:00.000-07:00

I got up knowing I should begin eating. I juiced carrots and we drank it most of the day. While coming home from Church, I was pleading to know what I could cook for dinner to feed our guests and that my husband could also eat (I had every plan to only do the carrot juice the whole day). This idea came to mind and when I told him, he was soooo excited and said it really sounded good.

We fed our guests little steaks along with what we got to eat which were red potatoes cut in cubes and steamed with onions and garlic. We also had steamed carrots, broccoli and cauliflower. It was a hit with everyone. I chose to eat a little and it WAS yummy. I made some clarified butter and we put a little on our potatoes.

It was a good day. I'm very thankful for inspiration!!!!

Day 12 - Pretty uneventful

2010-02-13T15:18:00.006-07:00

Since I had about 1 3/4 cup of prune juice left, I decided to do the same thing this morning and then drink apple juice until noon. Things did not happen like they've happened the other 3 days. I have to admit I was surprised and I think I'm thinking someone knew what they were talking about. I began the water fast at noon; husband has done it all day.

We talked about this cleanse versus the The Master Cleanse. We both prefer The Master Cleanse. To drink lemonade was just so much easier. I did find my tongue is still coated and am wondering if after water fasting it will clear.

I'm glad we are where we are. It seems we are deciding what to do as we go - and that is good. I'm thinking he'll be eating before me but that's okay.

He lost some weight while working a few months this past summer driving around taking pictures. He shared that he would eat veges while driving around - just snacking on them kind of all day long. He commented today that maybe that was the reason he lost the weight. I was worried about him being able to eat raw but I think he already knows how. This is getting even more exciting.

I have to feed company tomorrow - already signed up before I knew we were doing this. That ole cookin' just gets in the way!!! lol

Day 11 - The last day of eating only juice

2010-02-12T08:05:00.007-07:00

I got up and could face the juices. And I felt good! One of the side benefits is, of course, a bit of weight is lost and I got on the scales this morning and it was 3 1/2 pounds. That didn't excite me as much as usual and my thoughts keep going to what's happening on the inside of my body. I read how many feet the bowels were once and I remember being astounded so I again looked it up --- small intestines are approximately 23 feet long and the colon is about 5 feet long. I can't imagine -- but that's a long ways to travel! No wonder we get plugged and need a good cleaning once in awhile and then must be vigilant to try and not put stuff in there that would build a dam. What a visual!!!

We just didn't drink as much today. Life got in the way. Looking forward to tomorrow -- just water -- and I hope I can remember to do it often.

I asked my husband tonight if he wanted apple juice for supper. We had a good laugh.
I think I'm starting to get a little hungry. Previously to tonight, I've not even had an inkling.

Day 10 - A myriad of no energy and energy - a roller coaster....

2010-02-11T22:00:00.001-07:00

Was a pretty rough morning. I had dropsy and just kept lying down and thinking I could sleep a little but life didn't allow that, of course. However, when up and doing, it was sloooow. Then about noon I had this burst of energy. Amazing! And then I got sluggish again a few hours later. I've had more gurgling noises in the bowels than I've had in years. It is quite fun to listen and to feel. And, the prune juice did do things a bit differently than the grape juice, of course. lol We only drank 3/4 gallon of apple juice between the two of us. It got to the point that I couldn't even stand the thought of it and in the evening only drank water.

I just keep thinking of the good things that are happening in the body and my desire to keep these things happening when this is over.

Denial again came up. It was said that it goes through so fast, the bowels are working just fine. I again reminded us of the health problems manifesting themselves (blocked arteries, high cholesterol and triglycerides, high blood pressure, low kidney function) and many people have had these things reversed when they've made specific changes in their eating.

Just a quick note about all the juice we're drinking ----- "If nothing were done to replace in the body something in volume equal to the quantity of matter so eliminated, then the body would naturally be dehydrated to that extent. Therefore, we replace the toxic or acid material so removed by drinking fruit juices." "Herbal Home Health Care", by Dr. John R. Christopher.

Day 9 - The beginning is here

2010-02-10T16:11:00.008-07:00

Today we began our cleanse!!!! I am sooooo glad it is finally here!!!! Boy, when I looked at the juice I was wondering if I'd be able to do this. But so far so good. And, it didn't affect me nor my husband as badly as we thought it might. We're doing this cleanse.

Isn't it funny -- the day one begins, a meal needs to be taken to someone. My husband said, "This is not fair!" I said: "Life isn't fair!" Of course it's one of his favorite meals (and mine) and the smell in the house is absolutely scrumptious.

I don't know where I'd put a meal anyway. I've drunk 8 ounces of something every half hour and am I'm so full!

We're doing apple juice for the main juice. It really tasted good. Wonder if it'll still taste good on the third day. lol One of the kids had some and he said, "Have I had this before?" He was liking it! Now that is sad. We eat apples and they're in our smoothies or in our juicing -- but we've never just done apples alone. He very much enjoyed our "cleanse" food! lol

We've had headaches, joint aches, thought I had something going on in the appendix area, eye sight is fluctuating, skin is very dry, tired........ just to name a few. And it's only day one.

Oh NO!!!! I just realized and went and checked and I bought grape juice - not prune juice. Gotta run to the store. I'm so ditzy sometimes. Obviously something is still happening because of the aches and pains and no wonder we didn't react as we thought we might. Tomorrow is another day!

Day 8 - A pretty blah day in the eating department

2010-02-09T21:00:00.002-07:00

We didn't eat breakfast. Just not hungry. Had a vege sandwich for lunch. Had elk steaks and fried potatoes. What a way to begin our cleanse! NOT!!!

Day 7 - When you eat whole foods, you can sustain yourself on 1/3 of what you normally eat

2010-02-08T21:00:00.003-07:00

Decided to have wheat sprouts for breakfast. Wondered how they'd be pureed. So I did and poured it in a bowl. It was like milk. So I added more sprouts and some blueberries and waa laa - breakfast. Now I know if I want a bit of milky liquid - liquify sprouts. Interesting learning.

We had the opportunity to eat out and I just didn't even want to. Driving by one of our old favorite places to eat, I thought about what I felt like every time I ate there. I'm proud of us for resisting. I soooooo want the health that is available to me if I will eat the whole foods.

Interesting that when one eats whole foods, we can sustain ourselves at four to five times increase in more power, energy, vitality and life on about one-third the quantity of our current food. We are eating less already.

I feel like I've been at the left swing of a pendulum and have progressed and come to what I thought was the middle. It wasn't quite right there so I'm now at the right swing of this large pendulum. I think I have to be here to learn.

Day 6 - My thinking is spent and Day 7 - A day of fasting

2010-02-06T10:20:00.002-07:00

Other than using some sprouts, if any, however I can for the rest of the meals today, I'm not going to be doing much thinking about all of this. I'm very thankful for the ideas which have come. I even had a couple thoughts about using spices but nothing in particular. I do know it is coming. I'm going to enjoy a day playing and just rolling with the flow -- or maybe even rolling in the snow. Tomorrow is fast Sunday and I'm looking forward to resting from my labors and enjoying a day of inspiration.

Cream of wheat cereal complete

2010-02-06T10:15:00.002-07:00

New recipe for almost instant (except it has to be cooked about 5 minutes) cream of wheat cereal (and a bit of added protein).

My cream of wheat cereal mix - kept in freezer and is just add water and cook.

CREAM OF WHEAT CEREAL MIX – complete with salt, sugar and milk
Mix
1/4 c ground cereal wheat
2 t powdered milk
2 t sugar or your choice of sweetener
1/2 T white bean flour
1/8 t salt

1 cup water
¼ c cereal mix

Bring water to boil. Wisk cereal mix into water. Turn down heat and cook about 5 minutes, until cereal has thickened to consistency you desire. If it is too thick, just add a little water.

Guess it wouldn't be considered "whole" now but it surely is good and fills the body and warms the soul and is just add water, which is a big factor in ease for me.

Asparagus

2010-02-06T09:30:00.011-07:00

And why do I use asparagus in my smoothies? I do it because my family (and maybe me, too) would not eat it otherwise. I remember as a child being sent to walk the fence line and pick asparagus and then at night I would dream about walking the fence line picking asparagus. I didn't like it. However -- this is an article I got some time ago. I'm using asparagus (in smoothies) - just because! And I can see I probably need to "offer" it to my family in it's unblended state - just because.

Asparagus and Cancer:

"My Mom had been taking the full-stalk canned style asparagus that she pureed and she took 4 to 20 tablespoons in the morning and 4 tablespoons later in the day. She did this for over a month.. She is on chemo pills for Stage 3 lung cancer in the pleural area and her cancer cell count went from 386 down to 125 as of this past week. Her oncologist said she does not need to see him for 3 months."

THE ARTICLE:
Several years ago, I had a man seeking asparagus for a friend who had cancer.He gave me a photocopied copy of an article, entitled, `Asparagus for Cancer' printed in Cancer News Journal.

I will share it here, just as it was shared with me:'I am a biochemist, and have specialized in the relation of diet to health for over 50 years. Several years ago, I learned of the discovery of Richard R. Vensal, D.D.S. that asparagus might cure cancer.

Since then, I have worked with him on his project. We have accumulated a number of favorable case histories.

Here are a few examples:

Case No. 1, A man with an almost hopeless case of Hodgkin's disease (cancer of the lymph glands) who was completely incapacitated. Within 1 year of starting the asparagus therapy, his doctors were unable to detect any signs of cancer, and he was back on a schedule of strenuous exercise.

Case No. 2, a successful businessman 68 years old who suffered from cancer of the bladder for 16 years. After years of medical treatments, including radiation without improvement, he went on asparagus. Within 3 months, examinations revealed that his bladder tumor had disappeared and that his kidneys were normal.

Case No. 3, a man who had lung cancer. On March 5th , he was put on the operating table where they found lung cancer so widely sprea d that it was inoperable. The surgeon sewed him up and declared his case hopeless. On April 5th he heard about the asparagus therapy and immediatel y started taking it. By August, x-ray pictures revealed that all signs of the cancer had disappeared. He is back at his regular business routine.

Case No. 4, a woman who was troubled for a number of years with skin cancer. She finally developed different skin cancers which were diagnosed by asking specialist as advanced.... Within 3 months after starting on asparagus, her skin specialist said that her skin looked fine and no more skin lesions. This woman reported that the asparagus therapy also cure her kidney disease, which started in 1949. She had over 10 operations for kidney stones, and was receiving government disability payments for an inoperable, terminal, kidney condition. She attributes the cure of this kidney trouble entirely to the asparagus.

I was not surprised at this result, as `The elements of materia medica', edited in 1854 by a Professor at the University of Pennsylvania , stated that asparagus was used as a popular remedy for kidney stones. He even referred to experiments, in 1739, on the power of asparagus in dissolving stones.

We would have other case histories but the medical establishment has interfered with our obtaining some of the records. I am therefore appealing to readers to spread this good news and help us to gather a large number of case histories that will overwhelm t he medical skeptics about this unbelievably simple and natural remedy.

For the treatment,asparagus should be cooked before using, and therefore canned asparagus is just as good as fresh. I have corresponded with the two leading canners of asparagus, Giant and Stokely, and I am satisfied that these brands contain no pesticides or preservatives.

Place the cooked asparagus in a blender and liquefy to make a puree, and store in the refrigerator. Give the patient 4 full tablespoons twice daily, morning and evening.

Patients usually show some improvement in from 2-4 weeks. It can be diluted with water and used as a cold or hot drink. This suggested dosage is based on present experience, but certainly larger amounts can do no harm and may be needed in some cases.

As a biochemist I am convinced o f the old saying that `what cures can prevent'. Based on this theory, my wife and I have been using asparagus puree as a beverage with our meals.

We take 2 tablespoons diluted in water to suit our taste with breakfast and with dinner. I take mine hot and my wife prefers hers cold. For years we have made it a practice to have blood surveys taken as part of our regular checkups.

The last blood survey, taken by a medical doctor who specializes in the nutritional approach to health, showed substantial improvements in all categories over the last one, and we can attribute these improvements to nothing but the asparagus drink...

As a biochemist, I have made an extensive study of all aspects of cancer, and all of the proposed cures. As a result, I am convinced that asparagus fits in better with the latest theories about cancer. Asparagus contains a good supply of protein called histones, which are believed to be active in controlling cell growth. For that reason, I believe asparagus can be said to contain a substance that I call cell growth normalizer. That accounts for its action on cancer and in acting as a general body tonic.

In any event, regardless of theory, asparagus used as we suggest, is a harmless substance. The FDA cannot prevent you from using it and it may do you much good..

It has been reported by the US National Cancer Institute, that asparagus is the highest tested food containing glutathione, which is considered one of the body's most potent anticarcinogens and antioxidants.

I saved the day - well, the orange sorbet anyway

2010-02-06T09:17:00.011-07:00

I made this orange sorbet last night thinking it would be a wonderful treat.
2 oranges, peeled
2 T sugar or other sweetener, to taste - I used agave [a (a) gav (gah) ve (long e) - it uses much less than sugar and I've now seen it at Costco and Walmart.]
4 cups ice cubes

I made the mistake of adding the ice cubes before blending the oranges and so it didn't get as pureed as we'd have liked it before it got too thick from the cold. So -- lots left over. Gotta try this, though, with liquifying the oranges before adding the ice and maybe even juicing them.

I had wheat sprouts with orange sorbet for breakfast. It will not be a favorite but definitely edible. I also cooked the sprouts a bit -- too long as they became a bit too mushy, as was the comment from my companion in all of this and to be frankly honest, this comment surprised me. I found I liked having the outside a bit softer but it was a bit too soft. Was is worth the effort to cook -- probably not. But I may experiment more.

I then made a smoothie for snack: Kale (1 lg leaf), asparagus (1/2 can), 2 1/2 bananas, and all of left-over orange drink and 3/4 c water. It was okay for me but for anyone else to drink it, I felt it needed just a little more sweetener so added 1 t of agave but it could have done well with just 1/2 t.

Thumbs up means I did okay!

I hate wasting food!!!! Anytime I can "save the food", I've had a good day. To me, it's just like taking a $5 bill and letting it go down the garbage disposal. I've talked about this before, but green smoothies are a wonderful place to "disguise" lots of things!!!!

Day 5 -- An idea

2010-02-05T20:39:00.003-07:00

Wheat sprouts were ready. For lunch I fixed a bowl of sprouts (1/2 cup), 1/4 cup applesauce (unfortunately it was sweetened but home canned), 5 raisins, 1 tsp coconut and 6 small pieces of pecan. When I served it, I asked my companion in all of this if he really felt he could eat like this after our cleanse because this is how it would pretty much look. And .... I got a look. I didn't ask what it meant but "we" ate all of it and it was actually pretty good. Simple it was!!!

We then had half of an avocado, tomato and lettuce sandwich with balsamic vinegar. I really liked that.

Soooo --- the idea could expand to those sprouts being mixed with strawberries, raspberries, (any variety of fruit - dried, fresh or frozen) or puree of any fruit and throw in something to add just a little variety. I think I need to add just a bit of coconut oil to it, or ground flax seed or some chia seeds -- for a good fat. Oh -- what about some molasses with homemade ginger snaps broken up in it for crunch or honey and some homemade granola. (Oh!!! Another idea -- make note to self -- make granola out of sprouts.)

It'll be interesting when I really get going to see how the little ones will warm up to this.

You can see -- it's not going to be anything fancy!

Day 4 - It's always darkest just before the light

2010-02-04T17:54:00.006-07:00

This always happens to me! I get a bit discouraged -- not nearly as badly as I used to (there are advantages to all the practice one gets throughout life and finally get it mastered a bit and the wisdom of age appears teehee) -- now let see -- where was I -- oh yes -- get discouraged -- but I've gotten now so when that happens I immediately turn to prayer and give it to the Lord and again plead for the desires of my heart and thank Him for this opportunity to learn and in my heart, I know it'll all happen according to His way and time. I guess you could say it's going to my faith place. And then I can let it go and it seems the very next day there is light.

I'm really excited for next week. I think I've been trying to make it be like the "plates" of dinner of the world and it is not going to be like that -- but yet it can be pretty and colorful. Things are going to be quite simple. In family prayer this morning it was asked that we could all be supportive as Grandma is learning these new things and we could try and eat everything. We shall see! But I am getting little glimpses and even though most people will still turn up their nose, it's going to be good for us.

Neat thing I learned ----- when one eats whole foods they can sustain life eating only 1/3 as much as they used to. I so have found this to be true and explains when I've eaten the wheat cereals and dishes, I don't eat as much and I'm not hungry as soon as usual. So -- less food to prepare because we will be eating less but getting more for the bang.

Went grocery shopping today -- bought the little boys jump ropes and what fun we've had today. So exercise has been good and I even did a bit of leg work earlier so I'm good for the day. While at the grocery store, while waiting of course at the checkout --- a magazine caught my eye. "The carbs that melt fat - drop 24 lbs in 21 days" was printed on the cover. Well, I just "needed" to know what carbs they were talking about. And.... when I got to the article, this is what I saw: "Enjoy Grains First Thing". Of course, there is more to their plan and they haven't yet figured out that wheat is the powerhouse the Lord created for man, but...... it's been a long time since I've seen such a fun thing. Of course, it's been a long time since I've been browsing magazines, too.

It's a good feeling to have a glimpse!!!

Day 3 -- It's slooooooooow

2010-02-03T22:25:00.004-07:00

Every time it's time to make a meal, I have these thoughts ---- "What can I do? What will I do?" Of course, that's typical of my whole life usually when preparing dinner (lol), but this seems it's got to be way different than what we've been doing. I'm a bit discouraged, wondering if I'll even be able to do this. Let's see -- no dairy, no eggs, no cooked foods unless under 130 degrees, and grains, seeds, nuts, fruits and veges. The thinking is truly in the forefront while I prepare meals of the same stuff that we've always eaten while wondering how I could do it differently. When no ideas come, it's a bit overwhelming. I decided I'm going to have to stay on top of sprouting or we won't have anything to eat. Thank goodness we are already doing green smoothies and juicing. That's a BIG plus!!

Did you know if you cook a grain less than 130 degrees, you should be able to plant it and it will grow. That's what is meant by whole foods -- if it'll grow after you cook it, it's still a whole food. That's quite a challenge. I think I need to get some books out and start collecting recipes that I think would be do-able for us. I have enough books -- that's for sure! Guess now's the time to really use them!

Did get some jump roping in this evening. I used to be soooo good at this when I was young. Maybe with enough practice, it'll come back!! Guess time will tell ---- in ALL things!!

Sugar is always a surprise!

2010-02-03T12:39:00.011-07:00

Take a look at the nutrition label on the side or on the back of your packaged food item. Locate the listing for sugar on the label. Say, for example, you are looking at your favorite candy bar, a known source of more sugar than you probably want to consume. What does it show?

For this example, let say you show 22 grams of sugar. Is that a lot? To find out, divide that number by 4. Twenty-two divided by four equals 5.5. This is the number of teaspoons of sugar you will consume if you eat that candy bar

I can't imagine sitting down and just eating 5.5 teaspoons -- but I've surely done it way too often when eating all the other foods.

I need to memorize this formula and keep it in the forefront. I shouldn't even be considering sugar but I know I will be tempted and so will others. I'll now have a neat analogy to help me remember and help others see the real deal. This is power - power to help resist!!!!

Day 2 - Life happens

2010-02-02T23:50:00.002-07:00

We are sooooo funny. We (my husband and I) are really apprehensive about this cleanse -- not in doing it but what it may cause. If the bowels are going to be cleaned - that probably says we need to stay home. Life keeps scheduling things --dentist, temple (gotta take advantage of that when the time is right) -- just normal life!!! So -- the plan is now still next week --- but in the middle of the week instead of good ole Monday. Why am I even mentioning this -- it's only a 2-day delay? I guess to me it seems like a greater delay because if I'd have been doing this alone, I'd be doing it now! tee hee

I know I did some little thing for exercise but can't remember what it was -- very impressive to the body, too, I'm sure.

The eating went rather well, meaning good self-control. Had to take "healthy" treats to Kindergarten and used the "Cookies For Dinner" with fruit on top and of course, I ate some of the extras. The body does feels good after eating it though. (At the site, the book is under products.)

And the meal planning or what we are going to be eating after the cleanse thing --- surely occupies the thoughts but nothing yet.

A really neat thing, though, is my husband is even watching what he eats and when -- and I know he's feeling what his body does with certain foods. Fun to watch.

All happens when it should and maybe the things we are learning today and tomorrow and the next day are needed before we really begin. One of those things is to identify "denial". It is soooo hard to admit one has a dysfunctioning colon and constipation when one is having more than one bowel movement a day. But it's been said, the most common cause of illness is constipation and that word has a much different meaning to the world than to those who teach about good health. Denial is indeed present in our house - even though blood pressure is high, acid reflux is going on, the nose is always having to be blown, and let see, what else is there.........? lol

Day 1 - In the forefront

2010-02-01T21:47:00.007-07:00

It so helps to have thoughts and desires in the forefront of one's mind. Today, I said "no" to things that were calling me to eat them. Today, I breathed deeper and a more concerted effort to breathe correctly. I sat and walked with a straighter body. I shoveled snow for exercise and did crunches.

I wanted to make a plan - kind of a menu - of ideas to eat. I did purchase a new e-book I thought would be beneficial and it did have some good ideas in it when I feed my family, but it's not where I want to be right now. But the plan did not come to fruition today.

I got up very early and got the important reading for the day done and also fasted. I know I mentioned before that fasting brings forth the blessings of heaven and I've known this would be a part of obtaining the answers I'm seeking. It is good.

When I did eat, I had a wonderful salad. I had to make a frosting for treats for school and found out it was very hard not to taste and lick fingers after being done. I must do this a lot. It was just totally natural. Gotta watch that I guess.

And so the day didn't pan out quite how desired but there is tomorrow. And that is soooo life!! But, a plan I will put together with ideas of things to eat so when that time comes - after the cleanse next week - that part will be ready and I won't be wondering what to fix. I've got to do this now because if I don't, I'm setting myself up for failure - been there, done that, too many times.

Basak

Another beginning

2010-01-31T21:07:00.006-07:00

Long time no post. Long time with little change in information. Long time eating not as healthy as I know I should be. That's a pretty good recap of where I'm at today.

I signed up to take the Family Herbalist class from Dr. Christopher's School of Natural Healing. It has been a joy -- and a stress because I'm accountable for passing a test -- but a joy for the things which I'm learning. (See Sept. 14, 2009 post, "For the Love of Raspberries" by Zea.)

I've been plagued in my thoughts about my eating for about a month. It feels like it's time again to go forward. I think I'm a bit concerned that I know I'm missing something and I don't know how to do what I feel I want to do. And then I wonder if I will really be able to be strong enough to do it. I've tried ever so many times; however, each time I seem to get a little stronger.

I just feel I do not know how to do this. In my limited understanding, and yet I feel I understand it better than most, I'm not doing it. I'm juicing and eating sprouts -- and what a difference it does make. I think some of my hair is even returning to my original color from the gray I now have. It's the other times that bother me. If my body is indeed a temple of God, why am I not feeding it as such all the time? Why am I feeding it the poisons of the world? Why am I feeding it dead food? Why am I not strong enough to be master of myself in what I put into my body?

I did the Addiction Recover Program that the LDS Church has about a year ago. I thought I was at a point of self control in my eating. I learned soooooooo much and I have progressed tremendously, but I can see I'm not yet there.

The thing that the Addiction Recovery Program taught me the most is that I cannot do it by myself. I've tried all these years -- and have not succeeded. My reflections the past few days have drawn me back to that knowing. My heart and mind are humble and I know what I need to do. I have a renewed desire, a stronger desire.

This time is a bit different. It's not so much about the weight, but it is about the health and well-being of the physical body. I know I've got (not liked to be talked about) sludge. I will be doing what I can to help rid my body of that. But along with removing that, which will allow my body to absorb the wonderful nutrients in God's created foods, I've got to learn how to prepare those foods for eating -- so they do not lose any of their 'wholeness".

I still know "wheat for man" is a part of this. I'm anxious to use the little bit of new knowledge I have gained from the learning of others. And I yet hope to receive the further light and knowledge I'm seeking -- making eating wheat delectable -- in the Lord's ways.

And so the journey continues.

I'm going to do some reporting -- challenges, frustrations, joys and successes. I've set a timetable of 90 days and as of tomorrow, February 1, 2010, I'm going to begin mastering "me". Some sort of exercise six days a week is a part of the plan, along with using the Lord in my temptations, and eating now as I will be doing in one week after a 3-day cleanse. It is said we eat 1/3 less when we eat whole foods and feel wonderful and have much more energy. Now who wouldn't want that?! And along the way we'll see how this is working and in 90 days we'll see where I've arrived. Well, I guess this has now made me accountable. This could be a good thing -- I hope!! I don't like falling on my face in front of others. (lol)

So -- once again ------- Onward and Upward!

Basak

Tomato power

2009-10-05T17:22:00.006-06:00

Probably the wrong title but......

Made a recipe today that said to remove the seeds from the tomato. I had to wonder if I've ever had a recipe that had you do that or if when it did I just ignored it because it was too much work. Then I wondered how they "officially" do that so checked it out on the net. I was appalled as I saw them take out the heart - those membranes.

Since reading Greensmoothie Girl's blog about eating whole foods - including the skins, I have always known what she expressed was true. Today, I thought about that place of the fruit that is holding the power of reproducing.

So --- I did as the recipe instructed, but I put the seeds and the pulp in a bowl of their own. After I finished my recipe, I needed to juice some vegetables and just ran what was in the bowl through. About the only thing that came through was the seeds. And what a powerful drink was made -- with probably some of the richest nutrient power the tomato had.

I'm in awe at the things that are coming forth. They've really never been gone -- just man has forgotten, including me. In the olden days, people just picked the fruit or vegetable and ate it. Today, we have to do so much to them before we eat them -- add flavor, take things out, put things in, etc., etc., etc. But also in our day, we are going back to the ways of health and wholeness and I'm excited these things are being brought to my attention and becoming more of my family's way of life - although we have been very basic as compared to most of the world! But now --- we are REALLY getting basic and it's AWESOME!!!! Bring on the power!!!

Basak

In Praise of Beans

2009-10-01T13:17:00.007-06:00

Once again I've had the opportunity to be in teaching mode and once again I've learned the most.

About a year and a half ago, the Provident Living site changed the food storage calculator to only calculate grains and legumes. My reasoning was because they, as it says on the site, "can sustain life" or "be used to stay live." This time around, it was instilled in my soul that: "The Lord will always guide and protect His people if they will obey. The site was changed because He inspired someone to do it, of course and the change will provide us with strength, health and protection of our bodies." I then had a thought question wondering if these two things were the best things we could be eating even now -- just just for survival. I love the witness of the Holy Ghost!

As I prepared spiritually and also made numerous dishes for the class and as we at home gave those dishes a trial run, it was very interesting what happened to my family as we ate them.
We got full and there was no glimpse of a desire to snack later. When it was time for the next meal, we found we were sometimes still not very hungry. In this household, that's a big deal. I feed them a good meal and an hour later, they are snacking.

I really don't know why I have not fed my family more legumes/beans. I guess one reason is because of their worst rap of being gassy. I shared my theory that if we get gassy, it is a very good indication that there is a problem in our bodies and the beans are working at those problems. As I've eaten beans, I find that problem ceases to exist when the fiber gets to do its job rather than being so far behind. We all know many diseases happen because of colon issues.

When one considers that each legume/bean has it's own special nutrient, we should be eating a variety. When one considers the Lord says, "Nevertheless, wheat for man", and then we are encouraged to also eat legumes, and then plants in season, could our health be exceptionally increased? I now know, if we literally do these things, it can.

Now many will probably rip me saying I should study the food combining, etc., etc., etc., and I have and know of these things and do have several books but I have to admit, I have not done them. I will now be a bit more aware of how often I serve grains and beans, together or alone. I do not feel we need to always combine. Yes, there is the knowledge about the amino acids being complete, but I do know it does not have to be every time.

As I was prompted to share another insight about the deceit of men, "In consequence of evils and designs which do and will exist in the hearts of conspiring men in the last days, I have warned you and forewarn you,...", I also know these words were said for us today. The greater degree we eat God's food as compared to the world's food, the greater our protection and what greater foods than those which God created with a powerful outside covering.

My favorite is about as simple as one can get. I get a can of beans, put a few in a bowl and warm them and add some salsa and I'm good. Simple seems to be the taste I like the best and simple is the Lord's ways.

I really wish I had a picture of the serving table. It was delightful with over 25 different dishes, soups, salads, desserts and snacks. And what is even more delightful, we were all in awe that it was all made with beans.

And so, onward and upward with another adjustment in what I feed my family. My eating grains regularly will also now include a more concerted effort to include beans and legumes regularly. It's a new world of finding new recipes and letting inspiration complete that gap.

I'm so glad I was asked to teach this class. I'm excited.

Basak

For the Love of Raspberries

2009-09-14T21:56:00.002-06:00

I'm always telling people "you need a rasberry patch!" Not only for the berries, which are sooooo yummy and good for you, but also for the leaves. I always knew they were good for you, but just recently I've learned how valuable they really are.

In my beginning herb course from Dr. Christophers School of natural healing we learned some great things about the red raspberry leaves made into tea. From the Agricultural Research Services: Phytochemical & Ethnobotanical Databases I have a list of all the nutrients that are found in the leaf itself. They are: Alpha-Carotene, Alpha-Tocopherol, Ascorbic Acid, Boron, Calcium, Chromium, Manganese, Niacin, Pectin, Phosphorus, Potassium, Riboflavin, Fiber, Iron, Magnesium, Malic Acid, Selenium, Silica, Thiamin, and Zinc. There are many things the red raspberry leaf is good for, but one thing that I want to share is something that is from Dr. Christopher and I have tried it and put it to the test. When there are flu's or colds going around if you, and your kids will drink at least three cups of tea a day, they will more than likely not get sick. If my kids are starting to act like they are coming down with something, this is one of the things I do for them. I've seen it work. Not just with my kids, but also myself. So, go plant a raspberry patch and after you've made jam and preserved all the raspberries you can harvest the leaves!

Zea

XAGAVE

2009-06-10T08:37:00.005-06:00

I'm hooked on Xagave. It's a great sugar substitute, low glycemic, and it really does taste good. The guy who formulated it uses the nectar from two agave plants, and that is the reason for the X. When I first learned about agave several years ago I decided I couldn't afford it, and I was just going to use less sugar. Two kids later and realizing how much sugar we really were eating I've decided we can't afford not to replace the sugar in our diet. My family's health is worth the extra price.
We've replaced maple syrup with xagave. To make it I just add about a tsp of maple flavoring to the 36 oz squeeze bottle of agave. Now when my kids are pouring the "syrup" and inch thick on their pancakes, waffles, french toast, and yes even fried eggs I just smile. I used to limit the syrup and in fact I'd stopped buying it because of the high fructose corn syrup and other ingredients that made it so unhealthy.
So, this morning while I was eating my oatmeal that had xagave in it, I decided I ought to post about it. Go to http://www.xagave.com/ and read all about the benefits- fewer calories and low glycemic - just to name a couple.

Zea

Pico de gallo green smoothie

2009-06-04T22:07:00.005-06:00

We make a pico de gallo sauce that is really good. You use Roma tomatoes, cilantro, white onion, jalapenos, cucumber and lime juice - cube everything and put juice of a lime or two on it. Oh, and add salt to taste. It never turns out the same for us because the vegetables are more potent at times or we use a bit more of one thing, etc. Guess one of these days we should come up with a recipe but it's kind of fun to have it be a bit different and just enjoy it. It is absolutely yummy with chips or however you want to use it.

We made a batch and it ended up being a BIG batch and it was a little hotter than usual. We have a 5-year old that just could not eat enough of it. That got me wondering if it had something in it that his body needed and how my body would react to all that wonderful blend in a larger amount. I was also wondering how we were going to eat all of it so....

In my creative thinking, I took some spinach and then put a few spoonfuls in, added the juice of 2 more limes and about a cup of water and blended away. WOW!!! I think I'll name it "Pico de gallo Green Smoothie Jolt". It is really good and I believe anyone who enjoys the Mexican flavors would also enjoy it.

I think I needed to add a few wheat sprouts. You wouldn't have even known they were in there, just like in all the other smoothies. I wonder why I didn't do that? Live and learn!

Basak

I have a new theory about drinking water

2009-06-03T08:27:00.007-06:00

I keep learning of more and more people who take a supplement of HCI (hydrocloric acid) to help with their stomach acids.

Water content in God's created foods is high as compared to most of the foods we eat. So when Adam and Eve ate, there was quite a bit of liquid that went into their stomachs and maybe just helped slosh the food around and helped mix up the gastric acids in the digestion process.

At breakfast, I thought about what the people in the world eat today and how the stomach would look after - dry, dry, dry!! It's trying to make the gastric acids but it would be just this big blob of chewed food (and sometimes not so chewed). So the parts of the stomach that make these things would be squished, crowded -- unable to perform their tasks as they should. And what little they did make could not be mixed in sufficiently.

I was doing laundry while eating and the analogy came that it would be a bit the same if I put just the soap into the washer with the clothes but no water. I have an energy efficient one that doesn't need much water but surely does a good job so in the analogy the water in the stomach would not have to be lots.

And then what the world teaches about not drinking water with our meals came to mind.

Could it be we need the liquid when we eat? The world teaches us that we need to be drinking LOTS of water. Maybe more of that needs to be with what we eat. The world sometimes teaches that we should drink 1/2 hour before a meal to help curb hunger but even that would be processed before we loaded that ole stomach up.

Years ago I always drank with my meals and I was fit and trim. Of course I was younger, too; but when I adopted the world's thinking of not drinking with meals, things were different.

MMMMMMMmmmmmmmmm

I'm going to be drinking more water with my meals! And just so you know, to me the other things the world has us drink with our meals would not be the same.

Basak

New author on blog

2009-05-27T17:41:00.005-06:00

We've got a new author on our blog. Her wheat name is Zea.

She's into so many of the natural's and healthy's. We're excited to have her join us!!!!!!! We should have an introduction soon.

Basak

Carrot juice

2009-05-27T16:00:00.001-06:00

We are so taught by the world and sometimes we are so brainwashed that we cannot see truth. I know I've mentioned carrot juice before but this really struck me. This woman was so sick she could only take carrot juice by the teaspoon full and she only had it three times a day for about a week then she gradually increased her intake of juice to 8 ounces every 24 hours. Finally she was taking one gallon a day. She had no other food for 18 months. She was well and healthy and lived to be quite old.

So why are we taught that we need to eat so much? Why are we taught that we need so many different foods? Why are we taught it just is not good to do without food for a day? Why are we taught that we need all these specialty foods? Why are we fed this man-made food and not God's food? Why do we always have to have a substitute for something that is not good for us?

I think our "healthy" society gives us the answers to those questions!

I used to juice and have again begun. My first glass of the juice made my whole body buzz. It was neat. I felt like every cell in my body was jumping up and down. I'm not worried about doing it every day. Some days we'll do a smoothie and some days some juice. It feels so good to be incorporating what I know to be truth.

I continue to eat wheat -- bread, sprouts, smoothies, cereal, granola, casseroles, etc. Our grocery shopping has drastically changed. It's good and has also helped with the budget.

I was told just today that I surely didn't look my age. I smiled and so did every cell in my body!

Basak

Self talk, not feeling well, and feel like I'm in kindergarten

2009-05-22T20:08:00.007-06:00

There are so many self-help books these days on how we program ourselves by what we say to ourselves. I've decided I'm going to use some new self talk. When that time comes that I say, "Oh, I'm full", I'm also going to say, "Let me know when we're again truly hungry." I'm hoping this will help me get the "when" of "needing" to eat and get past my own habits.

This whole thing isn't very easy for me. I guess I'm just a nibbler, snacker, food addict -- whatever you want to call it. But I still know when I eat to "full", the nibbling and snacking just aren't in the picture.

I haven't felt the best the past couple of days. Been using some essential oils and when they do their thing, the body does indeed process. And ..... what has that done to my appetite? I've not gotten hungry until a few hours after regular eating time. One day, I ate because I just knew I should be hungry and of course I knew my body needed food!! Yah right!!! Not only did I not feel good but I then felt bloated and yukky in other ways -- like I do when I over eat! Well dah!!! However, when I did good, the hunger did eventually come. And full came quicker and with less food. Interesting - but yet I know I already knew it would be like that.

All learning lessons but I truly KNOW our bodies talk to us and tell us what is best --- if we will but just listen! And I feel like I'm in kindergarten!!!

Basak

Is "full" based on quantity of what the body can handle?

2009-05-17T21:57:00.005-06:00

Interesting discovery -----

The other day I ate pizza (the order out kind) --- and "full" came faster than I expected. Had to analyze that. I believe the body knew it would have a harder time processing what was being ingested. So- would the nature of the body have "full" come faster? Ironically, it took a bit longer to reach "hungry" -- so in essence, does the body take longer to process food made with many man-made ingredients along with all their preservatives and thus, longer to again feel a true "hungry"?

So when we eat before "hungry" arrives, is the body not yet finished processing. When we add more food, an analogy could be like we are causing a flood. Dams begin to form, body parts cannot contain it all so causes inflammation (which is a major cause of illness), and also causes leakages and hemorrhages inside the body.

Oh my -- what a disservice I've done to my body for many years. Another analogy --- When I fill my car up with gas, it can only hold so much. I make a choice to fill it with the good, better or best for it. Why would I not want to do the same with my body? We had a Camero and have to admit it made me want to be naughty. We took good care of it and only put into it what was best for it. We wanted optimum performance. I think I'm becoming stronger in my determination to truly treat my body like a temple and use the correct fuel to produce the energy it needs. Why would we want to do differently? Of course, it's because of all the "wonderful and tasty" of the world. But ya know -- all that "wonderful and tasty" surely does not make me feel good and it doesn't make a lot of other people feel good either.

A rather long explanation of another experience with "full". Oh well......

Basak

Fasting and prayer and "full"

2009-05-17T21:55:00.002-06:00

The scriptures are filled with the words "fasting" and "prayer". When I ended my fast, I wondered if "full" would be different in that I would not consume as much food. Sure enough, I was right. Interesting!

Basak

About 95 percent there!!!!

2009-05-17T21:13:00.009-06:00

Funny how things work and I love it!!!!

Right in my daily scripture reading, I came to that wonderful section in the Doctrine and Covenants on the Word of Wisdom. I had the thought that I was going to try and read it and just let it happen. Usually I try to force the things I desire to understand. And here is the Lord's word on just that so really wanted to just "hear" what was going to be said to me.

The reading was amazing! I realized how truly SIMPLE it is! I thought about my Dad. He always grew a garden and I remember him just eating the fruits and veges for lunch, along with the homemade bread my mother always baked and many again for dinner and how healthy he was for most of his life; and the same with my mother. I thought about the "season thereof". I thought about our seasons as compared to other places in the world. I thought about how fun it is to partake of those fresh apricots, cherries, peaches and apples and all the other yummies in their season of harvest. And I love tomato sandwiches. I thought about when it's hot and not really feeling like eating much. And then I thought about grains -- how they store because of those outer shells and how they are what would be used during those times when the gardens are not. Of course, all of you probably already know the simpleness of it all but I enjoyed my waa laa! I also totally understood why the Lord said what he said about flesh of beasts -- again, so simple.

So knowing that the grains would serve us well all year (and this went to awhile back when I said I wondered if we just weren't eating enough), and having been proving this all of my life it seems because I remembered that I ate whole wheat cereal almost every morning as a child and feel I really do eat my grains (but I believe it has not been in the quantities needed for my body because I fill it up with other things instead), I again asked "why wheat for man?"

I just felt that this little kernel of wheat has the most in it of what man's body needs. I use wheat in ever so many ways but am now going to make a closer study of how to eat it, when to eat it and with what, and how much and when. Seems complicated but it's just experiment, eat and pay attention and listen. It's just around the corner if I will zero in and put the knowledge I have to use to answer these questions.

The "seasons" of growing are upon us. What a wonderful time to put things to the test -- the hungry and full, the eating of wheat, the bounties of fruits, veges and herbs. It's going to be a wonderful summer of enjoying God's created food and receiving my answer!

Basak

The weirdest thing (for me anyway)

2009-05-09T16:06:00.005-06:00

As I try and "feel" this full thing, I've found I'll be eating and I'll feel this something (and it's been the same thing) and wonder, "is that it?" I think about it and know I'm not full. So I continue eating and then all of a sudden, there it is and found myself saying earlier today, "Oh, there it is!" and I know I do truly recognize it. I wonder if the first feeling is the 80 percent full -- which some say is the place we should really stop. More keying into the tune of the body and learning is coming. I can just "feel" it!!! LOL It surely is still weird and amazing to me that I'm just NOT even hungry in between meals when I get "full". This is so unlike me ---- and the way I've been eating for so long.

Basak

Very interesting -- this hungry and full thing - many surprises

2009-05-08T10:14:00.004-06:00

First off -- know that this is just my sorting through all this. I guess, really, the whole blog is kind of like that but this is specifically to the hungry and full thing.

As I've been doing this, I've noticed a couple of things.

1. At the evening meal, when I get to "full", I do not have a desire to eat and munch the rest of the night. It's been this way for three nights and I had no reaction feelings. One night I even watched a couple hours of TV. This is my most prone time to eat so this is very surprising to me. And for the record, I had to add more food than I originally dished up at meals to obtain "full". This also surprised me.

2. When I "snack" in between, which I just did this morning -- my body reacted with feelings of bloating and prickly insides. This caused an "mmmmmmm????"

3. I remembered that at breakfast, I did not zero in on the "full" feeling. I really do not believe I reached that point. Maybe that's one reason for the feeling of "wanting" at snack time.

I had one more thought....... Many people do not make enough hydrochloric acid (a stomach acid) to facilitate proper digestion. Do our bodies need a certain amount of time, depending on what we eat, to process it all and then to make new acid to be ready for the next meal?

When I ate three meals - waiting until "hungry" and ending with "full", my body just seemed ready and there were no reactions with anything I ate. And I've had reactions from some of those things before. When I had a snack today, had my body not processed everything? Did it not have enough stomach acids to do the job? So was reacting the result? I feel there is truth in this.

We really do spend a lot of time feeding our bodies a little here and a little there between a lot here and a lot there. The body probably does not ever have time to get to that point of "I'm ready".

It's been a fun three days and I'm sure the learning will continue. By the way, the weight lessened and maintained during those three days by a pound. Considering what I was eating, that, too, was surprising!!!

It's all just amazing!!!!!

Basak

The other book was...... and .......having an open mind

2009-05-06T18:23:00.015-06:00

It is so refreshing to know others are doing so many neat things. I like her style, her wit, her thrift, her wisdom and her testimony.

She also has a website.
"I Dare You To Eat It" by Liesa Card

Makes eating wheat, and other longer-stored items, very doable for ever so many. It's worth checking out!!!!

I'm thankful for friends! I was turned onto this by such a one in the preparedness world.

I'm also thankful for the open mind the Lord has given me. It hasn't always been that way. Seven years ago, I was very content -- living the empty nest life and enjoying serving. You've lived quite awhile so kind of thinking there's not much else to learn and enjoy and endure. My son asked me to read a book. I pooh-poohed him and he continued to pester me. I finally thought that if this is really THIS important to him, that I'd just read it. When I finished, I realized I loved it and what it taught me! I remember thinking, "Why would I not want to continue to learn? Why would I close the door to such wonderful information the Lord still desired to give me?" It was a major milestone in my "older" life and I'm really enjoying and lovin' all the learning!!!

Basak

Time spent thinking and pondering always leads to more learning.

2009-05-06T17:25:00.015-06:00

There is just something wonderful about thinking and pondering. You ask a question and all these things run through your mind. At times, it's really profound and an instant answer. At other times, it leads to other things needed before you can obtain that answer.

And this is the road I've been on the past few weeks.

I told you about reading "In Defense of Food" by Michael Pollen. I have to admit that I thought about it for several days. He basically tells us that we need to let go of all what the world teaches and eat. Yes, we need to eat whole, healthy foods but let go of the eating this food for this nutrient and that food for that nutrient. It really opened me up -- made me free, sort of speak. I was so hung up on trying to get all the nutrients the world is telling me I need and where they are and some I can't even get unless I go clear across the continent......well, I think you can see what I mean. I'm so thankful I read that book.

After digesting it, I was led to two other books.

Years ago I remember hearing about/reading about a group of Christian ladies that were having a huge success at losing weight by being accountable to Jesus. I've been thinking about that a lot so decided to take a look on the internet. I ordered the book, "The Eden Diet", by Rita M. Hancock, M.D. and so enjoyed it. It was such an affirmation of "In Defense of Food". And it was insight to Gwenith's question: "How did Adam and Eve eat in the Garden of Eden?"

And, I've also posted about satiation. Well, she addressed that in a big way - recognizing "hunger" and "full" and I realized I have neither.

So -- I've gone to the table to learn. Have to admit, it's been kind of fun. I did finally experience "full" once and I'm still working on identifying true hunger - rather than bored, stressed, waiting, frustrated, etc., etc., etc.!!!! This is going to take more than a couple of days!

When I spend the time thinking, it seems I'm always led to more understanding and answers. I love that part. It always requires work but amazing how it all fits.

I'm wondering if someone already knows the answer to what I seek. Oh, I know the Lord does, but when that answer comes about why wheat for man, is it going to come from something someone else will have already addressed? It really doesn't matter. My journey has been awesome and continues to be.

I do know this little reading spurt has brought me closer to my answer -- in fact closer than I thought it would. I don't know how - other than it might be really a matter of my gaining my own self-control and then the Lord will give me the blessings that go with that.

Anyway --- Onward and Upward!

Basak

I can't believe I really did this.

2009-05-02T22:43:00.012-06:00

I knew I needed to make bread today. Last night I had some sauerkraut and as I was putting the left-overs away, I wondered what I would do with them. I had the thought to put them in the bread. Now I know I would not think such a thought. It had to come from somewhere else.

I remembered this morning, and that's unusual, so I did it!!! And as long as I was doing "it", I also blended some wheat sprouts with it that needed to be used - probably about 1/3 cup. I added 1 cup water with it so it would blend and then added the remaining amount when it was called for. Amazing that when the dough got all mixed, there was only a very slight hint of the smell of sauerkraut. When it was baked, there was no smell of it and the bread turned out great!

What does all this mean? I have no idea! But I guess this is one way to get those fermented enzymes in there.

Here's the original bread recipe - no sauerkraut (tee hee)

Whole Wheat Bread (takes about an hour and makes 2 - 8x4 loaves)
3 c whole wheat flour
1/3 c gluten flour, sifted
1 1/4 T. instant yeast
2 1/2 c very warm tap water
1 T salt
1/3 c oil
1/3 c honey or 1/2 c sugar
1 1/4 T bottled lemon juice
2 cups whole wheat flour

Mix together first three ingredients in mixer with a dough hook. Add water all at once and mix for 1 minute. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes. Add salt, oil, honey or sugar and lemon juice and beat for 1 minute. Add last flour 1 cup at a time, beating between each cup. Beat for about 6-10 minutes until dough pulls away from sides of the bowl. This makes a very soft dough.
Preheat oven for 1 minute to lukewarm and turn off. Turn dough onto oiled counter top; divide, shape into loaves, place in oiled bread pans. Let rise in warm oven for 10-15 minutes until dough reaches top of pan. Do not remove bread from oven, turn oven to 350 degrees F and bake for 30 minutes. Remove from pans and cook on racks.

Basak

Feast or famine

2009-04-30T19:55:00.004-06:00

As you can see by all the posts today, my posting is like my eating -- feast or famine!!! LOL Not good for the body and probably not good for those reading. I'll try to be better -- on both counts!

Basak

Satiation

2009-04-30T18:47:00.006-06:00

I didn't even know this word existed until just a few years ago. I kind of like it. Satiate - to satisfy (as a need or desire) or no more desire. I relate this word to "full".

I've been working on identifying my "full" when eating. I don't know if I even know what that little feeling my body would give me feels like. I watch my grandchildren eat and they surely do recognize it -- even when eating a dessert. And I don't know if I really know what real hunger pains feel like anymore. Most of mine seem to be in the head, not in the belly.

So for now, I eat until I feel no more desire. It seems to be working for me. I think I just need to try harder to learn to identify that "full" sensation. I remember an article I read years ago that asked if we'd ever noticed that those people who looked like their weight was where it should be, when eating out, were the ones that left something on their plate. They knew they were full but didn't feel they had to eat it all. I liked that article and have often desired to know I was full but surely haven't done my part to recognize it.

Eating more wheat has kind of helped with that, though. It's amazing that it really doesn't take a lot to feel satiated. When I get there, I do not want anymore. I also know when I have bread for a meal I usually have two slices and I sometimes do not feel full and will have another slice and then feel completely satisfied. I guess I am progressing in this area.

Our bodies really do know what they need and how much they need. Just as in the world we need to be good listeners, we need to be good listeners to our bodies.

Basak

While we're on snacks.....

2009-04-30T18:11:00.003-06:00

When did the world start teaching snacks as a part of our daily regiments?

When I was growing up and also while raising my own family, we ate three meals a day. There were no snacks, even after school. I can't remember when it all started to feed our little children a snack at mid-morning and mid-afternoon and after school. And when you're feeding little ones, you always have to have a bite so adults just got on board, too (me)!

I'm trying to not eat snacks and it's making a difference in how I feel -- MUCH BETTER. It's giving me much more self control over what I eat at other times of the day, too. And then when I think about what most people eat for snacks today........ you already know where I'd go with that!

Boy, the world has done a good job on us!! Reminds me of those good words spoken in the Word of Wisdom, "...evils and designs, which do and will exist in the hearts of conspiring men in the last days..."

I just can't remember when this all came about -- the transition. Maybe it was in the years of my children being gone from home and having grandchildren but it's like "fixing" something all day long!

Another person commented that we used to eat large breakfasts -- eggs, wheat cereal, milk from the cow and whole wheat bread and homemade butter. (Those really were the good-ole days and I remember them.) After you got done eating all that, you weren't hungry until lunch. Lunch was the big meal of the day. Dinner was lighter--more whole wheat bread broken up like cereal and covered with milk and sugar in a bowl, with home bottled peaches on top. We used to call it bread and milk.

It surely wasn't a time of just leisurely watching TV between those meals but hard work so when it was time to eat, most were not picky.

She also pointed out that snacks came about when schools kept kids all day instead of sending them home at noon for a home cooked meal, and the kindergartners had graham crackers and milk for a snack. She said, "I actually knew what hunger pains felt like..." And of course, you've all heard this line, "I used to walk 1/2 mile (or longer) to and from school everyday". The big meals stopped during the day about that time as more men worked away from home rather than farming.

I think snacks -- in our not as much expended calorie society -- are not helping us much.

Ah the good ole days -- they did have their advantages and good points. But I really think this is something to consider. Do we all need these snacks? Is this the reason so many are so picky? Is this one reason we are an over-weight society? I know for me, when I start eating, it's sometimes hard to turn it off. And the world's philosophy has done this to me because it wasn't a part of me when I was growing up or when my children were at home.

I'm taking my world back!

Basak

Snack time

2009-04-30T17:57:00.005-06:00

Two little boys - 4 and 5 1/2 -- were buggin' me for snack. I was quite busy and they were supposed to be playing -- ya all know how that goes. So to the kitchen I go to try and find something for snack. I had wheat sprouts in a bowl on the cupboard - trying to decide what I wanted to do with them, leftovers from breakfast and they were a little past the sweetest part of eating them but still very good. I'd just made a green smoothie which also had ground sprouts in it. Well, I saw a no-work for me snack and just did it, wondering how it would go over. Their cups were over half full of the smoothie and I just put some sprouts in a little bowl and got them two grain crackers. Of course the sprouts have roots coming out pretty good now and kind of cling to each other. The youngest took some and made the "mmmmm" sound. The older one took some in his fingers and was looking at the conglomeration when I left. When I came back a few minutes later, they were all gone and so was their smoothie! I have to admit, I was quite surprised and I did learn that the spider-like look of the sprouts intrigued them and made them more fun to eat. Oh what we learn when we experiment! LOL

Basak

Eating changes in our lives from a few months ago

2009-04-30T09:24:00.006-06:00

Boy, with all that is going on in the world (swine flu), I'm so very thankful for how we eat. We've made major changes in the past six months compared to how we used to eat. We rarely eat out - and here just last night was one of those rarities - we eat much more fresh foods (and it isn't costing that much), we eat many more whole foods, canned foods are going down on my shelves and some are not being replaced and some have even been given to the food bank, we are eating way less meat, and we are eating more correct portions. Our weight is changing and so are our bodies. This all feels VERY good! And it seems "we" are liking it!!!! Amazing! Who would have ever thought??!!!!!! And I'm hoping it's helping our body be maximum in the immune department.

Basak

Pay day

2009-04-30T08:38:00.009-06:00

My son asked this morning how he could eat more protein without eating meat. This is one of those "it's worth it" (pay day) times. We discussed lentils and beans and how if you eat them and grains, you get all the amino acids. He then shared that he's "noticed" that when he eats meat, he soon feels kind of bloated. There's that word again -- "noticing". I also shared with him that maybe it's what he eats with the meat that causes that bloating feeling. I've also recently read in the world's information that meat proteins stay with the body and do its work much longer than they originally thought -- sometimes up to three days.

I, too, have experienced what he described but it isn't every time. It seems it needs to be a constant watch. Maybe I should keep an eating journal and record how I feel after each meal. LOL Boy, I already know that but when thinking, it always brings things to mind on what we know we should be doing!

Simpleness is so one of the keys to all of this.

I continue to eat wheat -- in all it's forms. Here goes a bit of "eating journal" LOL Had wheat sprouts (1/2 cup), raisin bran (1/3 cup), 1/4 tsp sugar (I still am hung up on my old life LOL but notice the decreased amount) and milk for breakfast. It tasted wonderful. Had a salad last night that had 1/2 cup of mixed sprouts (which includes wheat) on it and then had one slice of pizza. Yes, I did notice sensations but it wasn't from the salad. I also noticed that increase in weight this morning which ALWAYS comes after eating pizza.

Basak

Answers to prayers

2009-04-24T10:15:00.005-06:00

Last night, I was given an answer to a prayer that I've been pondering and working on for awhile. I just had to sit there in awe. It just kind of came out of nowhere because I wasn't thinking about it right then. I love my Heavenly Father. I love knowing He is all knowing and that His timetable is perfect. When inspiration comes like this, it definitely puts one on a spiritual high. Interestingly enough, the TV has been off all week. Amazing how that works. I know that one of these days, I'll also have this prayer about wheat answered.

Basak

An old book on using wheat and progress

2009-04-24T09:57:00.005-06:00

When I first began to try and use wheat in more than just bread and cereal, I bought a book on using wheat to eat. Books are good! They save lots of time in the learning process. It sat for awhile and after the gluten making learning and some classes by people teaching how they used wheat, I again got the book out to see what good recipes I could find. The baked products - breads, cakes, etc., - used wheat flour but as I got to the meat/casserole/vegetable dishes, I had to chuckle. I still cook our favorite meatballs using a recipe from this book but the extent of the wheat used was 1/2 cup whole wheat flour to roll the uncooked meatballs in before browning them and other recipes used the whole wheat bread crumbs. How I've progressed in using wheat since then -- throw some (cooked) in spaghetti sauce, chili, soups, etc., and I'll yet be trying some of the salads in this book I just ordered. It's always fun to look back and see the progress and yet also, to see that there is still much to look forward to in learning.

Basak

Always learning and wondering if it's getting me closer

2009-04-23T19:10:00.005-06:00

There are sooooo many good things and helps out there. It makes me wonder why anyone would even want to read my ramblings. But no matter how busy I get, the wheat question keeps popping in and out and when life again settles, it becomes a constant.

However, a good thing learned today, shared by another cohort in the realm of preparedness, was a book. It's entitled "I Dare You to Eat It" by Leisa Card. She's talking about eating the basics of storage -- wheat being a main one. Of course I ordered it and think it will be fun to read. I really liked her website and I like the way she says things -- a fun personality!! You can find that at http://www.idareyoutoeatit.com/ Fun title, huh?!

Basak

PS on popped wheat and "finished" recipe

2009-04-19T14:08:00.015-06:00

Got the soft wheat and it was successful, too.

Would I buy soft wheat just for this?

Nope!

Amazingly we have found we do prefer the red wheat --- but we think ALL of it is just YUMMY!!!!

After making many, many batches, I've pretty well got this refined!!! I'm sure you're thinkin' I'm obsessed but if I can save anyone some of the time and testing to get to the wonderful finished product, so be it! LOL

RECIPE
1 cup rinsed wheat and at least 4 cups water --- boil 1 hr 30 min, adding water if needed. Drain well. One cup of wheat before cooked will equal about six batches to be fried.

Put a couple inches of oil in a pot for deep fat frying. Heat to 360 degrees. Put 1/2 cup of the cooked wheat in a frying basket when oil reaches 360 degrees. Cook for 2 min. 45 sec. to 3 minutes or until it turns a good (deep) golden brown. The small bubbling will come to an almost complete stop and the oil temperature will again be very close to 360 degrees. Drain on a paper towel and salt or season as you desire. Cool completely and store in a glass jar. (see March 30 post for seasoning suggestions)

Notes: The above reached our desire of crunchy and puffiness. We found undercooked was about as bad as overdone. Did you know some of the wheat, if boiled long enough, will turn inside out? I cooked it trying to get it all to do it (for hours) and found not all turned. When the wheat is cooked for the hour and thirty minutes, it has opened sufficiently. I tried many variables to process more in the frying process but none turned out as good as just 1/2 cup.)

Basak

Whoa!

2009-04-11T20:55:00.016-06:00

I gotta come up with a different plan.

No time for blogging because I spend all my time making this popped wheat.

We're addicted!

A special reward came when my husband gave me a special thanks for sticking with the experimenting. He did his own search on nutritional value and found there was none. He's doing some serious thinking in these areas of nutrition and that always brings good. By the way, fiber content of popped wheat is good and does good things for the body in that department.

Basak

And even more thinking.....

2009-04-06T17:41:00.006-06:00

When we break an arm or leg, it's put in a cast so it can heal and it takes about six weeks. When we have surgery, we are told to take it easy for 6 weeks and even up to 6 months.

Isn't it interesting that the outside of our body is given time to heal but when it comes to the inside of the body, we just keep shoveling it in and making it continue to work and not take it easy to heal or we take medications to mask the symptoms?

I was making an 8-hour drive and time was of the essence. I only wanted to stop for gas and relief. I prepared munchies. It was a time when I was trying to eat at least one meal of raw veges. The only thing I had in the fridge were peppers - a green, yellow and an orange one.

I must admit, I really thought I'd get to the point of not even being able to look at those slices. But as I got hungry, down they went -- for snacks, lunch and dinner. When I arrived life was extremely busy so nothing else was eaten during that day except for almost three whole peppers.

Now for the surprise! Maybe some have seen pictures of the results of a colon cleanse and if not, just google it and you can have that 'wonderful' experience. I've never seen such results in cleanses I've done but lo and behold, there were results the next day. In fact, it kind of scared me because I had no idea this was even a possibility. I satiated myself with peppers and they did something very good to my body.

If foods, as their whole, provide these kinds of results, I wonder if each of the whole foods would do their own cleanse -- kind of like different scrubbing brushes. What would eating a day of just celery or broccoli or carrots or whatever do? I'm thinking I'll be trying this also.

I'd imagine if a food sounds good it would be its turn. For some reason, strawberries and celery are screaming at me. Can you imagine, a whole day of eating whole strawberries until you're full and when you get hungry, you have them again -- all day long? It was amazing that satiation did come, even when eating just slices of peppers.

Now I know this doesn't quite coincide with the previous post of eating wheat with other whole foods but I think there's something to both. I'd say it's time for more experiments!!

Basak

Been doin' a lot of thinking today

2009-04-06T16:35:00.007-06:00

Part of a quote in a post on April 1 read: "...A whole food might be more than the sum of its nutrient parts." - which basically means the synergy of the whole.

I've had a few thoughts come to mind and had about decided that maybe that slice of homemade bread we always used to have with a meal was good for us. Today this thought was more intense and I wondered why. As I've tried to make sure my body is getting the wheat it needs, I've found that eating vege's and fruits, and I know they are good for me, leaves wheat lacking. So decided I need to eat a slice of bread, a handful of sprouts, etc., with what I eat to see where this takes me. And it doesn't seem to take a lot -- half a slice of bread, a small handful of sprouts.

As I was pondering this, the thought came: What if wheat also worked synergistically with all other whole foods? I do know nutrients work synergistically together and I believe many foods are not the best for us in combination but is there more good for man with a bit of wheat with other whole foods?

Thinking always seems to bring more questions; but questions beget answers.

Basak

A story of our bodies telling us what they need

2009-04-01T21:36:00.005-06:00

This was so many years ago that I may not have the details totally correct but I can still remember the impact. It was WOW!

There was a day-care center. Someone there had watched the children and noticed how they'd eat the same thing for a couple or few days and then go to another food. She wanted to do an experiment. They put a great variety (all kinds of fruits, veges, potatoes, breads, cheese, etc.) on the table in their individual bowls.

The children were allowed to choose what they wanted to eat and it was recorded. It didn't matter what others chose. They found a child would eat maybe green beans for a couple of days and then go to another type of food for a couple of days, like bread or meat or fruit. You get the picture. They sometimes would choose one or two other items to eat with what they chose but it was mostly one item and maybe two. It almost seemed like they were craving some things as they ate a lot of it. After a couple of days, the food of choice almost always changed.

These children were eating by natural instinct.

Are our natural instincts so masked that we cannot even feel/hear them? I believe mine are. However, the more I eat whole foods, the more my body seems to talk to me. I also believe that one thing I do is mix and eat too many varieties of food together. Again that word "simple" comes to mind.

Basak

Another step forward -- in fact, it may be more than one step - "In Defense of Food"

2009-04-01T19:26:00.007-06:00

Gwenith was given a list of books to read from her doctor. After reading the reviews of the books, I knew some of them were already in our knowledge base; however, I knew I needed to read this one: "In Defense of Food, An Eater's Manifesto" by Michael Pollan.

I've been through a roller-coaster ride. I'm a trusting person. I believe people are basically good. I believe most people care about others. I have learned many good things and they've brought me to where I am today. But just as I've believed the rulers of our country to protect our rights, I've also believed the nutritionists and scientists in their studies of the food we eat and got on the band wagon of nutitionism many years ago. I've realized I've been dupped - again - as I got caught up in the arm of flesh! I've never been able to find a basis for what we were told to do after my husband's heart problems and I now know there was no scientific evidence.

And the "up" to the book has brought a great gladness to my life - which is typical when truth is spoken. I was reminded a couple weeks ago, "The ways of the Lord are simple." This has kept coming to mind over and over again. This book has brought that so to the forefront. Our eating should be simple and wonderful and joyful and a happy time.

But let me share with you why I needed to read this book.

The author is talking about a study and that nutrients alone cannot explain the improved health of whole-grain eaters.

"For the study, University of Minnesota epidemiologists David R. Jacobs and Lyn M. Steffen reviewed the relevant research and found a large body of evidence that a diet rich in whole grains did in fact reduce mortality from all causes. But what was surprising was that even after adjusting for levels of..." all the good things the world knows are in whole grains "...they found an additional health benefit to eating whole grains that none of the nutrients alone or even together could explain. That is, subjects getting the same amounts of these nutrients from other sources were not as healthy as the whole-grain eaters. 'This analysis suggest that something else in the whole grain protects against death.'" Synergy! "...A whole food might be more than the sum of its nutrient parts."

I know I knew this. Hindsight is a great teacher. As I read the book, I could see where I had been influenced by so much the world teaches; and yet, I had also hung on to what I knew to be true about grains. And now -- someone has put it all into words.

It is well worth the read and can probably be found in most libraries. Just good insight and I'm glad to have it in my knowledge base.

My quest just took a giant leap forward!!

Basak

Popped wheat experimenting and SUCCESS

2009-03-30T21:40:00.014-06:00

Our Bishop's very favorite treat is popped wheat. Now I've tried it with the frying pan method and haven't been too impressed so I was quite intrigued. Things weren't working too well with him remembering how -- so search and experiment we've gone. I just knew if it was his favorite treat, it must be good!!

My husband learned what I was trying to do and waa laa -- he did some searching and came up with a couple recipes. He takes very good care of me!

I'm just a little twisted when it comes to more than one recipe and have to find out which one is the best. Causes LOTS of work but I surely learn a lot. And I always remember that practice makes perfect. LOL We finally had it tasting like corn nuts -- except it was wheat. We were pleased. We had the Bishop sample and we were very close. He then gave us a bag of what he buys -- so now we could really compare and back to experimenting we went.

Ya know -- sometimes it just takes many to succeed. We decided to use some white wheat and we considered it even more successful. My son made a suggestion or two and after another batch .......WE ARE SO THERE ....... but still want to do just a little tweaking.

To be quite frankly honest, I think we've succeeded pretty well with all of them because we've eaten about 10 batches and loved every one of them. LOL One recipe said to use soft wheat berries. I've changed my philosophy - which was that if it couldn't be made with hard red wheat, then I wasn't going to make it - and ordered some. I will make a batch or two just to see if they make it even more like the professionally made.

My husband is now eating LOTS of wheat. So typical -- we zap all the life out of it when we do things like this and then love it! LOL

Notice - there is still a little difference in the puffiness but I think that can be obtained by cooking it just a little longer. You want it to split and it will be kind of sticky.

And now -- the RECIPE!!!

1 cup wheat --- the above was cooked for 1 hr 15 min. If it were cooked longer, I believe it would be the puffiness I desire. Drain and put on a towel and let dry a bit (10-15 minutes). One cup of wheat before cooked will equal about six batches to be fried.

Put a couple inches of oil in a pot large enough for deep fat frying. Heat to 360 degrees.

Put 1/2 cup of the cooked wheat in a wire basket or strainer and put in the oil. Cook for 2 min 20 seconds or until it turns a good (deep) golden brown. (When you use less wheat at a time, the oil temp does not fall and that was a factor in the experimenting.) Drain on a paper towel and salt or season as you desire. Cool completely and store in a glass jar -- if you have any left. LOL (See recipe added on April 19 for the refined, tried & tested recipe)

I do not have a strainer that has small enough holes so the wheat does not fall through. So to get them out, I put a strainer on another pan and poured the oil and fried wheat into it. I then put the wheat on the paper towel and poured the oil back into the cooking pot. Whatever works!!

Some suggestions for seasonings and uses on the recipes we found were: salt; onion salt; garlic salt; barbecue salt; dust with powdered ranch dressing; sprinkle with Kraft Grated American Cheese Food (sharp cheddar flavor); use it as a cereal served with honey, butter and milk; add to dried fruit and chocolate chips for a great trail mix; wonderful on salads; cinnamon and sugar; mixed with granola or any trail mix; as a topping for ice cream and desserts; or just by the handful.

Basak

Where is Gwenith?

2009-03-23T18:38:00.003-06:00

No, I have not disappeared into some inescapable black hole! Life just swamps you some times. We have been trying to pack to move and just when we really got a lot of stuff done, the move was postponed a month! You see, we don't want to buy a house in this current economic 'situation' so we have been renting a home. Our landlord got his old job back in town and moved back and naturally wants his house back so we have to move. Anyway, as exhausting as that upheaval is, I have also been sick again (post-mission crud) which puts me down and out for a good week!

Basak was right, the book by Kenneth Bock, 'Healing the New Childhood Epidemics' has really impacted me and I am anxious to see if my sons with their asthma and anxiety problems and my problems can be helped by what that book says. What can you say about such a powerful book - particularly when their claims seem to be supported by legitimate (meaning scientific method, not hearsay) diagnoses and treatment that produce consistent results? I guess you try it out for yourself!

Onward and upward!

Gwenith

A body cleanse?

2009-03-23T15:25:00.010-06:00

There are many who do body cleanses and there are many different ones out there. Wheat grass juice is to a certain extent a cleanse. Fasting is a form of a cleanse.

Years ago, Stanley Burroughs wrote a book entitled, "The Master Cleanser". It is also known as the lemonade diet. There have become many variations of this as people have added their own thoughts and ways of doing it.

We decided to do this cleanse a few years ago. I did it for 14 days and my husband did it for 7. I bought the original book because I wanted the real deal. It was well worth the cleanse.

I've come to realize the bodies are totally phenomenal. It has back up systems that kick in when other parts fail. If something stops producing, another area provides. It is truly a great miracle. It wants to be healthy and fights to maintain health and life. When the body is healed and nutriented, it can withstand the intrusions of today's world. But so typical --- we eventually revert and gorge the body with junk and soon find that pizzazz we enjoyed gone.

Another family member just completed this cleanse for 19 days. She did it by the book and was valiant the longest of anyone I've personally known. As she's again adapted to food, and it's been healthy food, she's realized that her body is still not functioning properly. She never did feel the greatly improved health that so many describe; however, she did see great benefits and was thankful for what she did accomplish and was able to do everything required in her busy life (and continued exercising) except for a couple days of detoxing.

However, it made us realize that sometimes things are so deep that it takes longer. She thinks she might continue in short spurts (3-4 days). It reminds me that maybe the same principle is applied as was the heal your body program. I also thought about the book on the 4-A's and sometimes the improvements come after a year of providing the body with eliminations and nutrients. I realized that the cleanse could very well be like that. In fact, I just read the other day about a person who was dying. They gave her 2 tablespoons of carrot juice a few times a day for a few days and then were able to add more of the juice. Her health was restored on carrot juice (and she didn't turn orange).

In order to have the health we desire, a cleanse is a good thing to help our body become how it really is supposed to be. Isn't that what the 4-A book and the heal your body program has us do -- eliminate the foods that cause the most problems? When the body is not inundated with what we put into it, it has time to function the way it was created -- and healing is a part of that.

And what part will wheat play? The experiments continue, the testing continues, and the learning continues -- all building upon past learnings and experiences.

Basak

Calories in - calories out

2009-03-23T12:37:00.004-06:00

OH NO!!! There's that controversial word "calories"! Calories are equated to the energy our bodies need to function and perform. Everyone has an opinion about calories -- how many and if we even need to know that and it's hard to know what is truth.

And so, I, too have an opinion -- a bit different than some and probably related a bit differently.

My life as a child was very busy and active. I tromped hay as it was pitch-forked up on the wagon. I walked almost everywhere - except when riding my horse or my bike after I got one. I played dodge ball, softball, tag, and worked weeding and harvesting. The point of all this is calories were being used by the dozens.

As older life changes came, along with more modern conveniences and less activity, I desired my old body back and my "feel good". My study lead me to a couple of life impacting lessons.

I read about those who were considered at the time "extreme" health nuts. They were too skinny -- looked like they might even be starving. However, many of those people were in their 80's and 90's -- hiking the Himalayas and on the go constantly -- actively enjoying life!!! They were eating whole foods -- according to what they felt their bodies needed. I was very surprised when I learned that most of the time their calorie intake was about 800 calories a day. Of course, my thoughts went to every can on the grocery store shelves which talked about 2000 calories a day. I also knew if we weren't very active that needed to be adjusted but for me and my size, that still would be at least 1600 calories a day. My word -- how could these people live?!

I then began a journey to better health. I did not do it the way these people did but I ate a bit less and began exercising. I looked good and I felt better than I'd felt in years. I remember the day, in church by the way, when a friend asked me what I was doing. Of course I was excited to share! Before I even got finished and could tell her how wonderful I felt, she said, "You look too thin. You don't look healthy." I've thought about that for years and why did she not think I looked healthy when I felt absolutely WONDERFUL - the best I'd felt in years!!! It's because I'd lost my plump. Here I was in a more healthy spectrum and seen just as I saw those health nuts years ago.

I decided to do a study on me -- just for grins and giggles. How many calories did I burn in a day? I was doing a moderate exercise program at the time. I found a site on the internet and it listed everything you could imagine -- sleep, going to the bathroom, sitting, reading, eating. I charted my day and I even vacuumed and did lots of those sort of things to get my calorie usage up. Reality, though, says that even though I do these calorie using things, a lot of my time is spent doing computer things -- sitting on my you know what. I was very surprised when I did the total calories used for the day ----- a whopping 750 -- and remember, I was doing a moderate exercise program. What a powerful impact that made on me.

I've often wondered where the needed calorie count originally came from. It was made during a time when people physically worked and many calories were needed for energy. How times have changed in what we do to expend energy but times have not changed on what we put into our bodies for energy. We are for the most part on overload and our health shows it.

And why did I post this? I don't really know except I felt I should. We not only need to eat the good foods but we also need to be moderate in our eating -- even with the wonderful foods God created for us. How much "energy" does our body need -- compared to how much we expend? Honesty with ourselves is a key factor.

Basak

Going without food

2009-03-23T11:47:00.006-06:00

In our church, we fast once a month for two meals. Some think they're absolutely going to die during that time. There are others that realize there are health benefits from going without food and although fasting is spiritual in nature, there are also physical benefits. Sometimes, however, because of health reasons, fasting is not a good thing.

I'm taught by stories in the scriptures of those who fast longer than just one day. Esther is one of those stories and there are many others. And through the years, I've learned that many people fast for a few days.

Because of my spiritual desires, I personally know the blessings of obeying the law of the fast. The greater my desire, the greater the spirituality of the fast. And I've learned I will not die if I go a couple of days without food. I've found that fasting is a great blessing in my spiritual life and physical blessings are always a by-product and I find them extremely liberating. My body feels rejuvenated, lighter, quicker -- the way I like to feel.

Again -- has the world programmed us -- what to eat, when to eat, how much to eat? Yes, we do eventually die if we go without food. But, do we also "die" when we overload with food?

Again -- do children teach us? Do the processes of our bodies sometimes need to rest - play catch up and rejuvenate. The children instinctively have this and so do we -- until we all get programmed.

Ah -- food tastes so good ----- all this is hard to do! Desires effect choices! Easier said than done!

Basak

A program that was for "healing your body"

2009-03-23T10:23:00.005-06:00

A wonderful family member had great success on an eating program she did. There was a class she attended and learned. I asked if those in the class were there for weight loss or for better health. She said is was about fifty/fifty. She shared that originally the program was started for people with health problems but it was realized that one great unexpected benefit was weight loss. Of course that word got around so people started attending for weight loss.

The crux of the program was that you stopped eating the allergic foods -- all grains (except oatmeal and millet), no dairy (except ghee - clarified butter), no fruits, no condiments.

You then began a testing of each food. I made a list of all the foods I ate (or wanted to eat and some I'd never heard of before like jicama) and began. You only ate the same kind of foods during the whole day -- so there was a protein day, a carb day, and a legume day and if you wanted, you could also just have a vege day, although after testing they could be eaten with any of the other foods.

It was interesting as I listened to the reports of her progress. She would lose weight and then she'd go for 5-10 days and not lose a pound. She'd then lose 4-6 pounds in the next couple of days. As I pondered that, I realized the inside of her body was like a cut on the arm. Her body had come up against something that needed healing. It worked on it for about the same amount of days that it takes for a cut on the arm to totally heal, and then her body would function more as it should. As I began the program, I also experienced these same things.

When the body is not using all the energy to digest and sort things because there are too many or much of them, the body has time to heal. This program had wonderful benefits for almost all with health problems. One possible reason was the acidity/alkalinity factor of the digestive processes.

I had eggs (fried in ghee) for breakfast -- no telltale signs. I had cucumbers for lunch. I had cod for dinner. The next day I did the carbs - oatmeal, squash (with ghee), popcorn -- no telltale signs. After trying each food individually, one could then start to combine them -- still watching for any signs of a reaction.

It became very evident what foods did to my body -- nothing really intense, just little signs -- until I had green onions. I ate one and got extremely nauseated and within 2 minutes had thrown up. Interesting!!

I succeeded on this program and felt wonderful for months. But as so typical, the good food of the world and my lack of resistance and control won.

I'm very thankful for that program and what it taught me about my body's telltale signs. I'm finding that I'm again using this knowledge in really "feeling" and "noticing" what my body is telling me.

Basak

Do our bodies tell us what is needed?

2009-03-23T09:07:00.009-06:00

Have you ever really watched little children when they eat? They know when their bodies are full. They know when their bodies don't want much food. They know when their bodies don't want a particular food.

And, I as a child, and as a parent to my children, heard and said, "Eat!", and there were many reasons that went with those words. And when little children don't feel like eating, we just know they need to be eating. It's what the world teaches. However, in reality, their bodies are healing or getting rid of (rather than stockpiling) the bad things. And after only a day or two, those children are eating normally again, and eating the things they didn't want to eat the previous day.

We can learn much from this!!!!

Signs of an allergic reaction in our bodies, or something that doesn't sit well with our bodies are: If you take your blood pressure about half an hour after eating and it's higher, your body isn't liking it. If your breathing changes (could take deep breaths before and it now is hard to get a deep breath or if you're breathing faster); if you sneeze, cough, or nose runs; if you feel like you're abdomen area is swelling inside (also could sometimes be described as bloating or cramping); if you feel sluggish about half an hour after; if you get a headache; nausea; and if you feel gassy -- all are telltale signs of body distress and reactions.

I do believe our bodies tell us what is going on -- if we will pay attention and "feel". Our bodies know. But because of the "programming" we've received, we've lost this natural knowledge.

The insides of our bodies oft times need to heal -- just like the outside of our bodies!!!

Basak

Lots of pondering and more questions

2009-03-20T17:25:00.006-06:00

Remember the book referred to a few posts back "Healing the New Childhood Epidemics", by Kenneth Bock, M.D.? The subtitle says "Autism, ADHD, Asthma and Allergies; The Groundbreaking Program for the 4-A Disorders. The bottom line seems to be "food reactions are generally the most common single cause of practically all of these signs and symptoms. Food reactions are a common denominator of the 4-A disorders." Notice the "allergies" part.

There is now an organization called DAN (Defeat Autism Now). These doctors have been successful in greatly improving the lives of those who suffer from the 4-A disorders. Gwenith has found such a doctor and he belongs to DAN.

She learned that gluten intolerance is curable if one is willing to go through the process of helping the body with nutrients, supplementation, detoxification and sometimes medications (to eliminate pathogens) - on a highly individualized basis.

So what does that mean for us and our families?

Gwenith's road is going to very likely be a no gluten/casein (milk) diet, along with other things, at least a month or more.

How might one be able to accomplish this by better eating habits? What might one do to replace the good bacteria the body requires and enhance enzyme activity? What might one do to detox and especially from metals? What might one do to rid the body of yeast infection? What might one do to reduce inflammation inside the body? Is it possible for us to do these things?

I believe it is and this scripture came to mind -- and there are some very powerful tools I need to put to greater use.

"Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed,...nothing shall be impossible unto you. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting." Matthew 17:19-21

Onward and upward -- on whatever road the Lord would have us go -- learning line upon line, precept upon precept; and one day, our quests may be received.

Basak

P.S. I would recommend everyone read the above mentioned book -- just so you have these things in your knowledge base. I've told several people about it and each say, "I need to tell so-and-so about this book". We all know someone this knowledge could help.

What is really going on?

2009-03-14T13:57:00.004-06:00

Just found out a really good friend of Gwenith's has been diagnosed with celiac disease. She's an expert on using wheat - makes her own bread everything, including hamburger buns. Why such a conflict today between what is happening to our bodies in the diagnosed disease because of the gluten and what the Lord has said?

Basak

The hardest part

2009-03-13T10:11:00.007-06:00

As a wife and a mother and a daughter of God, we have these inward feelings to please. Having our families happy brings us great joy. We cook and feed them their favorite things because of the delight it gives us.

The hardest part of trying to change our eating habits is balancing those desires to please our families and what we know to be for their better good and making those changes, even though we know it'll cause grumbling. I sometimes feel I'm cooking something different for everyone. But this I do know -- I have received guidance and if I do not honor that and go forward, it is my condemnation - not those in my family. But this is indeed the hardest part for me. So -- be forewarned, although I think everyone already knows this.

In these years of using more wholesome foods and especially trying to incorporate the wheat, we have had our share of grumblings. But lately, neat things are happening. I'm finding their willingness increasing and I believe it is because their bodies are now telling them they want it. I don't really know how to explain that other than when we eat good things, the things that aren't good for us don't seem as good anymore. And this is what seems to be happening. A few months ago, we had turned up noses and now they are drinking a glass full of smoothie. We are ALL eating more wheat - not just me, although I am eating more than every one else. When I ask them for help in evaluating my doings, it seems to help. Example and talking about things that are good for our bodies.... well, it also seems to be doing something. They are coming along and I have to admit, this is kind of surprising to me and I must add, delightful.

So please do be patient with your families if you're on the road to eating healthier and eating the foods the Lord has created and has instructed us in what is best for us. Just as we desire to please our families, so does the Lord have feelings to please us. He desires us to be happy and have joy. He feeds us because of the delight it gives Him. Are we sometimes likes our families -- grumbling and not wanting the good things? I hope we'll always remember His great patience and constant love for us and do the same as we try and incorporate the better into the lives of our families.

Basak

Life is never simple

2009-03-09T21:50:00.009-06:00

Just when I think I have time to experiment and do, it seems something comes along. Once again I'm involved in the task of trying to help others prepare. Yet, at this time in the world, I cannot think of anything much more important - both temporally and spiritually.

And, Gwenith is at a hard place right now. She loves her family and desires to help them in any way she can. Her words were, "It is very sobering", as she shared with me a book she was reading entitled, "Healing the New Childhood Epidemics", by Kenneth Bock, M.D. I immediately went to the library and indeed, extremely sobering it is!!!

What does one do about the "gluten"? These 4-A disorders - autism, ADHD, asthma and allergies - often requires a no gluten diet.

Whenever one desires knowledge, one seems to be given ways to learn by our experience - in the reality in which we live - such as in our own life or situations with our families.

Could it be the gluten resistance is in part being super-charged by the poisons, toxins and metals our bodies are not able to eliminate? Could it be that because of what the Lord said, there is some special help for our bodies when we eat wheat?

Where will it take us? Only time will tell. We will go forward in faith ... working, reasoning, pondering, asking and praying. This can be resolved and family helped -- with the help of the Lord.

A sprou-ting we will go, a sprou-ting we will go, heigh ho, the diary-o....

2009-03-06T08:22:00.000-07:00

Gwenith,
I finally got the picture taking done. Did I forget anything?

Day 1 - 8am

This is 1/4 cup rinsed wheat covered in water (rinsing is just to clean it). You can use any quantity you desire.

Day 1- 8pm
After 12 hours in water, kernels are plump. They are rinsed, drained well (this is very important), put back in the jar (also drained of any sitting water) and will sit overnight.

Day 2 - 7am

Some are beginning to show a little white root coming out on one end. Again, the seeds are rinsed, drained well and put back in the jar for the day.

Day 2 - 6 pm

You can now see a hair-like root coming out of the white root. And once again, rinse, drain well and leave in jar overnight.

Day 3 - 7am We have more than one hair-like root coming out but notice the sprout that is now just beginning. Eating sometimes begins now. Rinse, drain well and let sit in jar.

Day 3 - 6pm

The sprout is almost the length of the kernel of wheat and that's when it's the best. Notice the jar and how the seeds have expanded in the room they take in the jar. You can rinse, drain well, cover and put in the refrigerator. They continue to grow and will keep for several days, rinsing every 2-3 days. Rinse before using.

Day 4 - 6am

READY TO EAT!!

Some notes:
There are many instructions out there but if you think about the natural growing process, it really doesn't matter if the water is cold or warm. What if you forget to rinse? Just do the next step when you remember (just like waiting for rain). It'll just be a little slower accomplishing what you're doing. What if you forget and the soak process was 24 hours? Just drain, rinse and continue the process. Tap water works just fine. Some say to put the container in the dark - on the counter is fine. The only thing you do NOT want to do is let the container come into direct sunlight and this applies throughout the whole process. Most instructions tell you to rinse and drain three times a day - simplify and twice is nice! There are always the faster ones and the slower ones - it all works out. If you are using a sprout bag or a container that the hair-like roots start entwining, just massage them a little to separate them when rinsing. The wheat sprouts are sweetest at the beginning stage. The longer the sprout, the less sweet they become. Some say even sprouting to the length of the kernel is too long.

Basak

Eating more wheat

2009-03-03T11:00:00.016-07:00

In the "Search for Word Meanings" post on Feb. 10, 2009, I said: "Could the "demand" and "falling short" pertain to the body? Will we yet find our bodies, indeed, do not get enough?"

I've not been able to get this thought out of my mind and so for over two weeks, I have been trying to incorporate more wheat into my daily eating. I'm not organized enough yet to plan dinners - although I throw in cooked wheat berries (just cooked whole wheat) into soups and spaghetti sauce, etc., but we have not eaten those during this time. I do have a desire to be able to cook dinners and this morning could feel that is coming soon (the line upon line thing). But for these two weeks, it has been a matter of getting it into my body. So, what I've been eating is mainly cream of wheat cereal, wheat sprouts and whole wheat bread. I've eaten these things with a little milk, 1/4 t of sugar, Raisin Bran, blueberries, apples, cinnamon, butter, sometimes a little jam or honey, and green smoothies (with greens, fruit - bananas, strawberries or blueberries, flax or chia seeds and maybe some sprouts) and one time some pinto beans. I have eaten dinner with the family and that meal usually has not include wheat and hate to admit it, but they have not been the "healthy, healthy". You can see that this has not been a not eat anything but wheat venture but just eat more of it.

When I began, I tested to see where the level of wheat was in my body. I was about 1/3 of 100% which is where it should be. This really surprised me. I had no idea it would be so low. So as I've been eating more and more wheat, I continued to test. It has slowly and gradually climbed but it always would quickly fall. It didn't take much eating to get it back to where the maximum reached was but I was beginning to wonder if I could ever reach 100%. Remember, this has been going on for over two weeks. And I had never thought about maintaining that 100% consistently -- which it really should.

Yesterday, I reached 100%. When I woke up this morning, I was about 85%. I ate breakfast and was again at 100%. At this time (about noon and before lunch), I am still at 100%. I sometimes test vitamins and minerals and decided I would see where they were --- and, they are also up.

And what differences have I noticed? I am rarely hungry between meals and I have absolutely no cravings and I feel good!!!! Yesterday while wondering what the body would do when wheat was at 100%, I had the thought that weight would not be as problematic. I liked that thought!!!! Don't know if it was power of suggestion, but this morning, my jeans were looser and my weight loss always shows on the body before the scales. Further observations in this area will be occurring!! LOL

This is SOOOOOOO exciting to me. Could it really be this simple that we just need to eat more of it and as Gwenith said in her post on "Enzymes" (Feb. 20), "...sometimes in raw form, sometimes cooked, sometimes soaked or fermented, then we are being ‘moderate in all things’ and getting the benefits of all forms..."

I LOVE this quest!!!!!
Basak

(Word meanings have been added for quicker reference.)

staff of life: a staple of diet
staple: the sustaining or principal element; a commodity for which the demand is constant
principal: most important

nevertheless: but rather;
scarce: deficient in quantity or number compared with the demand and
implies falling short of a standard or required abundance

Muscle testing

2009-03-02T19:24:00.016-07:00

Since I'll be sharing some testing, I need to briefly explain.

I went to an excellent chiropractor years ago. He'd been to China twice to study. He muscle tested and that's where I first learned about it.

Today, muscle testing is a pretty common practice. Just goggle "muscle testing" and there are many sites that explain it. I was quite enlightened by a book, "Power vs Force, The Hidden Determinants of Human Behavior," by David R. Hawkins, M.D., Ph.D.

Although some think this is bunk, I eventually was given the understanding that it is a gift. I am sure of my beliefs and goals in life and I do not use it in areas that to me are questionable. I do know our bodies react to all that happens to us and will tell us what they need. I have developed my own asking system, which involves the Lord, and know when I am at the point of needing to ask verses learning by experience, which is also a must in this life.

And so - in future posts - when I say I tested, you'll kind of know what that means.

Basak

Remember the sausage wheat meat?

2009-03-02T18:23:00.006-07:00

Still has that ole bouillon! I'm anxious for you to do some experimenting and reporting on the broth method! GO GIRL GO!!!! If I buy broth does it have MSG in it? Oh -- just checked my can and it says "MSG free". Ingredients do say "yeast" and "flavorings" -- which are on the list of "other names" for MSG. Oh my -- how does one do it? Maybe it could be left out and it wouldn't make that much difference in the taste. I wonder??!!

Sausage Wheat Meat

1 3/4 C. water boiling
1 T. bouillon (chicken or beef whichever you want it to taste like.)
1 C. cracked wheat

Cook on low until water is all absorbed and wheat is very soft.
Makes 3 cups

Sausage seasoning (you may want to half this)
3 T. ground rosemary
7 T. ground sage
7 T. salt (7 is too much;I think I put in 3)
3 T. and 1 tsp powdered butter (optional)(not)
3 T. and 1 tsp powdered basil
2 T. cayenne pepper
1 tsp black pepper
2 T. garlic powder
Mix together and keep in dry place.

Sausages
3 C beef wheat meat
3 T. flour
3 eggs
2 tsp sausage mix
Fry in hot oil until brown. Can freeze cooked patties and use later.

Couldn't believe how this tasted soooo like sausage and neither could others!

Basak

Cracked Wheat Patties - tasty!

2009-03-02T10:31:00.006-07:00

Basak,
Onward and upward (an inside joke between us!)

I really like this recipe given to me by my friend Gwyn.

CRACKED WHEAT PATTIES

2 cups cooked cracked wheat
2 Tbsp dry milk powder
1 egg (or 2-3 egg whites)
½ cup chopped onion**
1 Tbsp dried parsley
2 ½ tsp. chicken bouillon

This recipe works well with the wheat cracked into fairly small pieces (3-4 cracks per kernel as opposed to 2). Mix all ingredients. If mixture is too moist, add ¼- ½ cups whole wheat flour. Roll into ball (about 2-3 inches in diameter). What really makes this recipe good is if you 'bread' or roll the ball in a mixture of some whole wheat flour, lemon pepper, and season salt (I might try about 1 C. of flour to 1/4 to 1/2 t. each of the lemon pepper and season salt). Drop by tablespoon or ice cream scoop into pan heated with small amount of hot oil. Flatten ball to a patty shape. Brown patties on both sides in oil. Serve hot or cold. I like to serve just like a hamburger - on hamburger buns with mayo, ketchup, and other favorite condiments.

**To substitute dried onion with fresh onion, 1/2 C. fresh onion equals 1 1/2 T. dried onion flakes. Cook the onion flakes with the cracked wheat so they are softened. Or you can use 1 1/2 t. onion powder.

To make a ground meat consistency, mix as above, pour into pan, stir and cook until looks like ground meat cooked. Use 2 cups for 1 lb. of cooked ground meat.

The only difficult thing about this recipe for me is that bouillon contains so much MSG. I'm trying to stay away from that (for reasons why, go to www.msgmyth.com). An option I thought of was to cook the cracked wheat in homemade chicken broth/stock and then eliminate bouillon from the recipe.

Gwenith

Me, too!

2009-02-28T17:36:00.010-07:00

I second Gwenith's disclaimer!

I have Gwenith to thank for my copy of the book. It is extensive and GOOD! It's going to take many moons until it becomes "mine". It addresses wild yeast and starters -- which I have a great desire to understand so a benefit to me on my journey. It adds more understanding to the enzyme factors.

Basak

Peter Reinhart's Whole Grain Breads

2009-02-28T14:56:00.008-07:00

I wanted to let you know about a book -- a good book about bread. Peter Reinhart's Whole Grain Breads: New Techniques, Extraordinary Flavor (2007) is a book with very advanced techniques on making breads. It is for people who are serious about learning how to make good whole grain bread. This is an advanced breadmaking course - the graduate level! There is history and science here. There is technical detail and scientific precision. There is laying things out step-by-step and explaining them in detail. His delayed fermentation process not only makes the bread taste better but it makes the bread more nutritious. There are also many recipes for all types of bread: sandwich breads, buns, artisan breads, crackers, etc. This guy knows his bread and I recommend his book to any of you who really want to get deep into breadmaking!

(Disclaimer: I (Gwenith) am not a master or an expert on this subject by any means! I was therefore interested in learning more and I have read the book and have tried a couple of recipes so far. I have learned much from this book and still have much to learn and I am grateful to have it!)

Gwenith

Whole foods

2009-02-28T09:42:00.007-07:00

Woke up this morning thinking about whole foods. We've not addressed this yet -- so here goes.

There is a great movement in the world today -- and that is to eat healthier by eating whole foods. Miracles in health have resulted!!

Should we find this amazing? I don't think so if we really think about it. God created all foods and they have the nutrients to feed man and help our bodies work properly. The more we eat the processed, modified and altered foods, the more our bodies lack what they need to sustain it and the unhealthier we will be.

Over 15 years ago I went to a church meeting. One of the segments was on the damaging effects our teenagers experienced because of using facial products for acne and other products. We were given a handout. It listed the "chemicals" in these products (all names none of us can say) and the known side effects -- depression, moodiness, sleeplessness, -- and the list went on and on. I remember how this so made an impression on me. Think about the difference between 15 years ago and now in the amount of chemicals used in everything -- including food!

Since that time, I've read labels. This carried over with our food. It is very hard to purchase food without additives. I was very surprised when I saw bacon on the shelf - and not in the cooler section. What do these things have to have in them to preserve them that they can be kept on the shelf? And what do these additives do to our bodies? And imagine my surprise when I went to purchase some bacon and read the label and gluten was used as a binder. Then I started to notice how many other things used gluten as a binder and it was in everything. No wonder we are maxed out in the "gluten" department; but we surely aren't getting it into our bodies in the form that is good for our bodies!!!!

One time after one of my body cleanses, I was eating whole foods. We had company and I'd sliced an orange, yellow and red pepper. I was so overcome by the sweetness of the peppers and especially the red pepper and commented on it -- how sweet and wonderful it tasted. Everyone just looked at me like they didn't know what I was talking about. They surely weren't experiencing it. It was awesome to experience the deliciousness that existed. Sorry to report that it wasn't long before I'd eaten enough of the world's "good" food that I could no longer identify that sweetness.

And then there's sugar. Man is constantly trying to find a substitute for sugar. We have all the man-created ones that have been proven to be very damaging. Did God created sugar? I believe He did. Wheat can be made into sugar. Sugar does serve a purpose; but moderation in all things. Man is out of control -- myself included!!!!!

This trend of the world in eating whole foods is a good one. Whole foods benefit man. And -- wheat and other grains are whole foods.

Since Gwenith and I talk a lot about this -- I think I can say "we" ---- we are working hard to incorporate whole foods (foods that can reproduce themselves) into our diets and we hope you, too, will desire, work toward and progress in using the foods God created for us for the benefit and use of our bodies.

Happy Healthy Eating!!!!!

The basic of the basics - cream of wheat cereal

2009-02-27T19:25:00.020-07:00

It was amazing to me when I fed this to my grandchildren. We add a little milk. stir and then drizzle a little honey on it. They LOVE it!! I've personally always found this warming, comforting and good and it's soooo basic and simple. I've given the raw ground wheat to others and ground some for many more and most have reported that they love it.

1 cup boiling water
1/4 cup cereal
salt to taste (1/8-1/4 tsp)

Add cereal to boiling water while wisking. Cook 5-7 minutes.

Left: raw cereal Right: cream of wheat cereal

A blender can be used to grind wheat to make the cereal. Cereal can also be made from flour.

Turn your blender into a grain mill VIDEO

Basak

Sanitizing solution - hydrogen peroxide & vinegar

2009-02-25T15:26:00.006-07:00

Here it is....the info on a great little sanitizing solution! First is an excerpt from a website. Following that is my correspondence with the scientist clarifying some issues. Finally are a few of my comments. Enjoy!

________________________________________________________________________
Excerpt from:
Science News Online
www.sciencenews.org
September 28, 1996

“It takes more than a tap water rinse to dislodge E. coli and many other microbial squatters. Though high temperatures kill them, cooking is hardly a viable answer for lettuce, sprouts, and tomatoes that go into your fresh salad. For these and other foods that are to be eaten raw, consider another solution …suggests Susan Sumner, a food scientist at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, in Blacksburg.

While at the University of Nebraska (which she departed last month), Sumner worked out the recipe for just such a sanitizing combo.

First, she squirts a vegetable with 3 percent hydrogen peroxide, the same strength available at the drug store for gargling or disinfecting wounds. She follows this up with a mist of mild acetic acid (vinegar). In truth, she says, which solution is sprayed first doesn’t matter…She uses 2 regular spray bottles.

The solutions represent an adaptation of a chlorine-free disinfection scheme she had been working on for red meat, and which turned out to be effective for decontaminating carcasses. In the course of her more recent studies, Sumner found that vegetables not only tend to come from the garden or farm bearing far more germs than red meat does, but they also hold onto germs more tenaciously.

Overall, most germs that show up on produce come from the soil and are benign. However, worrying that more toxic germs spread by feces could show up in organic foods fertilized with manure, and realizing there have been reports of Shigella on cantaloupe and Salmonella on raw vegetables, Sumner decided to develop a bactericidal treatment for restaurants and other purveyors of salads.

In her tests, she deliberately contaminated clean fruits and vegetables with Salmonella, Shigella, or E. coli O157:H7 – all capable of inducing gut-wrenching gastroenteritis. On its own, the hydrogen peroxide was fairly effective against all three germs, she found. But the best results came from pairing the two mists. For instance, she told Science News Online, “If the acetic acid (vinegar) got rid of 100 organisms, the hydrogen peroxide would get rid of 10,000, and the two together would get rid of 100,000.”

What I really liked about this treatment,” she adds, “is that every [microbe] that drips off is killed.” So you’re not just transferring disease-causing contamination from your food to the sink, drain, or cutting board. Speaking of which, she notes that the paired sprays work well in sanitizing counters and other food preparation surfaces – including wood cutting boards.

As for taste, the peroxide didn’t leave any lingering flavors and the vinegar, when applied to the skins of tomatoes and peppers, proved hard to detect. While vinegar’s trace could be picked up on lettuce, even that isn’t necessarily a major drawback, Sumner notes, especially if it’s destined for a salad to be dressed with a vinaigrette.”

Peters, D., Sumner, et al. 1996. Control of pathogenic bacteria on fresh produce, a paper (abstract #168) presented in Seattle on July 2 at the 83rd annual meeting of International Association of Milk, Food and Environmental Sanitarians.
_______________________________________________________________________

Email to Susan sent 6/16/2008:

Dear Susan,

I read your article from Science News Online from September 28, 1996 regarding spraying raw produce with vinegar and 3% hydrogen peroxide and found it valuable info for use in the home. Seeing as this was published 10+ years ago, I was wondering if this is something you still recommend? Is there something that works better that can work easily in the home?

If you still recommend this procedure, can you mix H2O2 and vinegar together in one spray bottle and use it that way?

Susan’s response:

Gwenith,

Still a very good idea. We only tested the surface of different produce, but we are starting an experiment this summer using different surfaces.

You may mix the two (hydrogen peroxide and vinegar) together in one bottle, but it must be used immediately. The advantage to keeping the solution in separate bottles is that you can keep the solutions longer. Leave the solution on for at least 1 minute before rinsing thoroughly.

Susan

............................................................
Gwenith’s comments:
Vinegar has an indefinite shelf-life.
Hydrogen peroxide -- 3% and 6% food grade hydrogen peroxide are relatively safe (they will cause vomiting if swallowed; however, no long term side effects). 3% and 6% food grade hydrogen peroxide are heat stable; it will last several years (they will not degrade because of being exposed to heat). Keep it in the dark bottle for longer shelf-life. Plus, the bottle is clearly labeled as to its contents. Hydrogen peroxide 8% and above will degrade. The higher the concentration, the faster it will degrade. 35% food grade hydrogen peroxide is highly corrosives (not a safe household product). *Reference: Hydrogen Peroxide - Medical Miracle by William Campell Douglass, MD
Don’t dip anything into the hydrogen peroxide. Screw a spray bottle head (after sanitized) onto the hydrogen peroxide bottle and use it that way. It fits!
Leave the solutions on for at least 1 minute. Please remember to rinse the vegetables thoroughly after spraying with the solution!

Gwenith

I can mess it up!

2009-02-24T19:51:00.003-07:00

Grandma,

Do not worry because if anything can be messed up, I can do it! My second batch of no-knead bread was a total flop! My yeast would not do a thing. I even tried adding more yeast the next day and after no rising dough, I just decided to cook the thing and be done with it. Well, I cooked it about 3 times longer than you are supposed to and it was still so flat and so dense that it was still doughy in the middle! I am going to test my yeast before I make another batch!

By the way, I just grew my first batch of mold along with the wheatgrass I was growing! After cutting the wheatgrass, I rinsed it, then sprayed it with our favorite sanitizing combo - hydrogen peroxide and vinegar (we need to post the article on that fabulous little find of ours). Then I put it in the refrigerator. When I used some the next day I rinsed it again and sanitized it again and then 'salad spinnered' it to death before juicing. Its a good thing I'm making all these mistakes now - I guess that's how I must learn...

Good night!
Gwenith

Oh -- so we're talking about our FAVORITE!

2009-02-23T22:15:00.012-07:00

This no-knead bread was the BEST find!!! I'm beginning to wonder if you can mess it up. I've tried several times. LOL Our favorite is 1 1/2 cups white flour and 1 1/2 cups of a 7-grain flour mix which includes about half wheat flour. The only thing bad about it is -- we eat the whole thing in one sitting! We also really enjoy the whole wheat -- and add some vital gluten. It is sooooo easy and sooooo fun to make and sooooo good to eat!!!!!

Because of the fermentation that occurs, it's doing neat things with enzymes. I will continue to work on perfecting the whole wheat but will probably often add some of the 7-grain flour just because it's wonderful. It definitely helps get more wheat into our bodies!

Basak

No-Knead Bread

2009-02-22T21:14:00.010-07:00

If you're like me, you want that breadmaking to be easy and simple. If this is you, then you must watch this video clip! Mark Bittman is the chef who writes for the New York Times. He visited a NY bakery to learn an incredibly simple, quick way to make bread (quick meaning takes little of your time - you actually do let the dough sit for a day). In the column for the NY Times he writes that this works for whole grains even though the video shows white flour. Now I have to say that I have only made this once and I totally messed up (I used the speedy recipe ingredients for the regular recipe instructions) and it was still really good bread. I also used the white flour recipe for my first time but I did 2 parts white flour to 1 part whole wheat flour -- still very good bread despite all of these changes! I used a cast iron dutch oven that I have for camping to cook the bread in.

Video - from You Tube and the link to the NY Times story from 2006. (Recipe)

Happy bread making!
Gwenith

Green wheat sprout smoothie surprise

2009-02-21T10:08:00.012-07:00

I made our green smoothie this morning and used 6 leaves of green leaf lettuce, 2 cups water, 2 1/2 smaller bananas, 2 T chia seeds and 1 cup of wheat sprouts (made one quart of smoothie). I've put sprouts in them before but it's probably only been about 1/3 cup. I just had this thought to taste it and I was pleasantly surprised - it was quite good. I then decided to make it even more desirable and put some frozen mixed berries in (was probably 1 1/2 cups because it fell in in a clump) and it didn't taste nearly as good.

I do know wheat sprouts are extremely sweet and you can make diastatic malt with them; but I have to admit, I was quite surprised because it didn't taste "wheaty" to me at all. This just expanded my thinking and onward and upward with experimenting I'll go!!!

Basak

Enzymes and such

2009-02-20T12:15:00.007-07:00

Forays into nutrition:

ENZYMES

While I don’t agree with 100% of the information in their books, I do like much of what the following authors have to say regarding this topic:

Nourishing Traditions, Sally Fallon, New Trends Publishing, 1999.

Enzyme Nutrition – The Food Enzyme Concept , Dr. Edward Howell, Avery Publishing, 1985.

Many of the following ideas come from their books.

Enzymes are the catalysts that allow every single chemical reaction in our bodies to occur. Every thing that happens in our body requires an enzyme – digestion, metabolism, repair, growth, moving, even thinking involves some enzyme activity! No mineral, vitamin, or hormone can do any work without enzymes. Enzymes convert the food we eat into chemical structures that can pass through the cell membranes of the digestive system into the bloodstream. They are needed in running the heart, kidneys, liver, and lungs. They aid in converting ‘building blocks’ into new muscle, flesh, bone, nerves and glands. Every organ and tissue has its own particular metabolic enzymes to do specialized work. There are thousands of different enzymes at work in your body.

One type of enzyme, digestive enzymes, have three main jobs: digesting protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Many of the body’s enzymes are manufactured in the pancreas. The pancreas has a limited production capacity. Digesting food has priority over other enzyme needs in the body. If the food you eat contains no enzymes of its own, the pancreas must manufacture digestive enzymes to aid in the breakdown of that food.

Nature’s plan calls for food enzymes to help with digestion instead of forcing the body to produce enzymes to digest food. If enzymes contained in the food we eat do some of the work, the enzyme producing potential of our body can allot less activity to producing digestive enzymes and have much more to give to the myriad metabolic, repair, growth, and healing needs our bodies have. If the human organism must devote a huge portion of its enzyme potential to making digestive enzymes, it spells trouble for the health of the whole body because there is a strain on production of metabolic enzymes. There is competition between the two classes of enzymes.

To get enzymes from food, we must eat raw food. All life, whether plant or animal, requires the presence of enzymes to keep it going. Therefore, all plant and animal food in the raw state has them. Nature has enclosed all raw foods with the correct and balanced amounts of food enzymes either for human consumption or eventual decomposition outside the human body. But heat destroys enzymes. Enzymes are destroyed above 160 degrees F. All foods from a food factory have been heat processed by one means or another. This is what keeps the foods from going bad but also kills the enzymes.

We can see from this short explanation that getting enzymes into our food is very important – that the diet we mainly eat today is not going to give this to us.

I don’t think the answer is to take things too far and become a raw foodist and eat exclusively raw foods. “While we should include a variety of raw foods in our diets, we need to recognize that there are no traditional diets composed exclusively of raw foods…Some nutrients are made more available through cooking and cooking also neutralizes naturally occurring toxins in plant foods.” (Fallon, p. 47)

How can we eat wheat in a ‘raw’ form? We can eat wheat sprouts and wheatgrass juice. Even wheat that is soaked overnight has started the germination process enough to increase enzyme activity.

Let’s take our study of nutrition a little bit farther….

Enzyme Inhibitors

Why don’t seeds break down and rot? All seeds have enzyme inhibitors which keep them from growing until moisture is absorbed by the seed and it begins germinating. Eating seeds, which includes grains, nuts, legumes, etc. also causes the pancreas to have to produce digestive enzymes to break these down. Whereas sprouting or soaking the seed in warm, slightly acidic water will inactivate the enzyme inhibitors and make the enzymes available for the digestion of that food.

Phytic Acid – Friend or Foe?

Phytic acid is considered by some as an anti- nutrient component found in the bran portion of all grains and beans. Phytic acid can combine with calcium, magnesium, copper, iron and especially zinc in the intestinal tract and block their absorption. It is said that a diet high in unfermented whole grains supposedly can lead to serious mineral deficiencies and bone loss. It is also suggested that long term consumption of these untreated phytates can be hard on your digestive system and may lead to irritable bowel syndrome and other serious adverse affects. Sally Fallon and Dr. Edward Howell recommend soaking and/or fermenting grains, seeds, nuts, and legumes to help neutralize the phytic acid.

On the flip side, it is also being discovered that phytic acid, among other things is an antioxidant, chelator, has anti-cancer benefits, and actually stimulates the small intestine to produce phytase which increases the body’s ability to absorb minerals.

See the following website for a one person’s take on these issues: http://www.breadbeckers.com/phytic_acid_friend_or_foe.htm

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So which is it? Is phytic acid good or bad? What about enzyme inhibitors? We haven’t even discussed oxalic acid! I can’t answer these questions but Grandma and I have been thinking that if we eat grains in a VARIETYof ways, sometimes in raw form, sometimes cooked, sometimes soaked or fermented, then we are being ‘moderate in all things’ and getting the benefits of all forms and probably avoiding the possible ill-effects we read about.

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Proverbs 19:21 - "There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand."

Gwenith

Food to "stay alive"

2009-02-18T21:55:00.006-07:00

On Provident Living, it talks about longer term storage of food. It says:

"For longer-term needs, and where permitted, gradually build a supply of food that will last a long time and that you can use to stay alive, such as wheat, white rice, and beans."

The words "stay alive" intrigue me. Could it just be the foods recommended will help us stay alive and live healthier than any other foods? Will they help us stave off disease? To me the Lord has spoken twice -- "Nevertheless, wheat for man" in 1833 and today in his direction through our Prophet and those who serve with him. There's more to this than meets the eye. We don't want to hear -- we don't want to eat the basics because we don't know how -- we have too much of the world's "good" food and LIKE IT! Ahhhhh --- it might be time to make a choice --- follow the Lord (the arm of God) or follow the world (the arm of flesh).

Basak

Green smoothies we did and do

2009-02-18T19:31:00.007-07:00

We both did the green smoothie learning and love them!! It is important in healthy eating but other than adding wheat sprouts and rejuvelac from time to time, it seems to be only a small part, if any, to the answers we are seeking. However, as progress goes, this may be more than we now think it is if we were to use wheat in them more often.

Basak

Paying the price

2009-02-11T07:46:00.008-07:00

Have you ever noticed that it seems if you really want something, there is a price to be paid? It seems to work in all things.

Someone gives us some homemade bread. It is scrumptious. We ask for the recipe. We make it and it doesn't turn out like the bread they gave us.

It seems like every time I begin learning, I always have to go through this "testing" period. Maybe it's to see if I really want it badly enough that I will keep trying or maybe there are other things I'll get to learn as I go through the whole process.

An example is growing wheat grass. I was thinking just this morning -- I'm so glad I'm where I am instead of when I was beginning. There have been so many variables (water, air, temperature, season, mold) and the learning took many trays. All were able to be harvested but it is nice when one can then look at what is going on and kind of know the whys.

It was the same with sprouting the wheat. I taught an email class on sprouting a couple months ago and this is part of the instructions:

There are many instructions out there -- like the temperature of the water. If I'm hot, I use cold. If I'm cold, I use warm. It really does not matter. Some tell you to use filtered water. Tap water works just fine. Some say to put the container in the dark. It's just fine on the counter - in the light. The only thing you do NOT want to do is let the container come into direct sunlight and this applies throughout the whole process.

Now -- what if you forget to rinse? Just do the next step when you remember. It'll just be a little slower accomplishing what you're doing. What if you forget and the soak process was 24 hours? Just drain, rinse and continue the process

When I was learning was it like this? NOT!!!!

I've found this with bread also. I've been looking for the "perfect" bread recipe for years. A couple weeks ago, I had some sprouted wheat that wasn't sprouting like it should. I didn't want to throw it out so decided to blend it up and use it in bread. I used some of the liquid called for in the recipe in the blender and when I put it in the mixer, I went with the rest of the recipe and then went with looks and feel. It turned out wonderful. I was in awe -- once again -- knowing that there were MANY things that could be done and it'd be good!

Thinking upon these things -- when wheat is planted, it does its thing and does not have to be watered everyday. Sometimes it gets soaked for days. Why would sprouting and growing wheat grass be unlike planting it in the ground? And with making bread -- in the beginning, that someone had to come up with the recipe by looks and feel.

Sprouting, growing wheat grass and making bread - I've decided - are very forgiving. We've been inundated with lots of good information, but this causes me to want to take everyones' input and come up with the "perfect" result. I realized that I truly make things too complicated.

Just maybe, the answers we seek will be just as simple.

Basak