Catch-Up

Hey.  I thought I would attempt sitting and writing you to fill you in on what's been going on, progress, etc.  I'm not sure how I'm finding the patience to sit here; I have a million other things to do and only 2 days to do it.  I work every single day next week (an 8-day stretch) and I'm going to need all the energy I can get, which means my house has to be spotless because I'm not going to have time to clean it through the week.  Regardless, I've been wanting to write you for a while so here I am!  Now we just need to multiply me so I can be doing 5 things at once!

It occurred to me yesterday my paperwork is almost done.  Bittersweet, that is.  You put in so much concentration, effort and money that you're happy it's over, it's what you've been working towards...but...you get a drop from all that effort/energy.  And then you wait.  For what seems like forever.

Here's a basic overview of the process I've had to endure...
The Dutch consulate needs various information before processing my application for citizenship and my passport (passport is a helluva lot more simple than the citizenship, I'll tell you that off the bat).  They need basic information from me: proof of address, ID, Canadian passport, birth certificate (long form, please, not the card; filed for), etc.  What they needed from my father was a lot more complicated.  Well, not so complicated, but tedious and time-consuming.  I needed to file to Thunder Bay for a long-form marriage certificate of him and my mom, his Canadian passport, his record of citizenship papers which as I speak are rushed on their way to some government offices in Nova Scotia (and can take a looooong time to process, so please pray!!), a de-registration certificate that I had to file with the Dutch government in The Hague (I'm also waiting for his paper back; it's in lieu of an old passport that we couldn't find used to emigrate), and the birth cert. and marriage cert. had to be sent to Ottawa to be authenticated (yes, my legal papers have to be legalized).  Aaaaaall of this paperwork, when it returns to me, will be taken in person to Toronto, back to the consulate and handed in.  With, of course, a photo for my potentially-acquired Dutch passport.  Did any of that make sense?  Probably not, and don't bother trying to understand.  I'm still trying to after a month ;)

With what I've had to do and the money involved, I really can't complain and am very thankful.  I know other people have cases that are much worse, more time involved and more expensive.  You hear the horror stories.  Thankfully it's been fairly painless, barring a couple breakdowns and random "Oh my God it's really happening" reality checks.

And it's almost done.  I'm waiting for paperwork to return to me and as soon as I get everything, I go to Toronto.  And then I wait.  Excruciatingly, painstakingly wait.  It'll be out of my hands at that point and I have to give it all up to God.  I keep trying to trust in the plan, but it is challenging at best.  Ah well, what doesn't kill me...............................

 So, not much else to say.  Health-wise I've been on a completely whole-food diet (no sugar, no caffeine, no grains) and as far as my digestive tract, I feel fantastic.  I haven't used my meds in almost two weeks.  It's unheard of.  I'm really happy about that!  It's getting challenging at this point to come up with food and menu ideas, I'm *really* limited, so I'm trying to hang on and not get too frustrated.

Anyways, best to get to the chores.  Hope you have a great weekend.  It's supposed to be warming up a bit (FINALLY) in this part of the world, so try and enjoy the day!

This Made Me Happy

My inner OCD/Nutritionist/Food Handler enjoyed this quick little video.  It's Alyssa Milano on Food Safety.  I mean, it really made me happy.  It's brief, concise, and fact-driven (and... it kind of makes you shudder).  Anyways, check it out, it's only a minute long :)

Still Alive

Hey all.  Haven't written much these days.  Dealing with ... stuff.  I like to throw a quote or two your way though, as you see, to let you know I'm still alive.

How are you?  How's your week going?  We got freezing rain here last night which made for slightly slippery roads, but it's dissipated since and now it's just.. cold. I spent the evening with friends that are family and I feel a bit better; a bit more grounded.  Content.

Is it just me, or is Christmas sneaking up on people?  I haven't even begun to think about Christmas shopping.  I have doubt about how much I'll be able to buy for presents; I'm still paying off Babu (which will be paid off in a couple weeks) and I've got to pay down a bit on the credit cards.. so.. I don't know.  I'm trying to think of an alternative to buying, but.. what?  I could bake.. but.. is that too.. predictable?  Common?  I have to buy for the parents, and my niece and soon-to-be-nephew (SO excited)..so I don't have much money outside of that.  I seriously need to marry rich.. sigh.. money just doesn't grow on trees.  Hmm.. I do like to entertain, so maybe I'll hold a big dinner?  An idea.  All I really want to do is spend time with people anyways.

My faith, after a brief hiatus, continuously increases albeit slowly.  I still have problems with some things, but right now it just seems a bit.. easier again.  Sometimes you have to hit rock bottom before rising.   /crypticness

Cards.  I was looking for Christmas cards last night and didn't see any I like.  This is something I DO like to do, so I've gotta get on that.  I mean, are we REALLY near the end of November already?!  What just happened?

Applying for a second job is not going well; I'm not getting in anywhere.  I'm only mildly frustrated.  Give it time :P

I've succeeded in losing a few pounds.  Not much!  But a start.  Eating (mostly) Gluten Free is helping.  It's giving me encouragement to keep going.

Anyways folks, take it easy.  Stay safe if the weather is bad; dress warm; prepare.  Have a good rest of the week!

Crazy Idea?

So today I got feedback about the Meyers Briggs test I did a couple weeks ago through work.  Turns out I'm an INFP.  Wasn't much to my surprise and all the explanations for the dichotomies were pretty right on.  In fact, I(ntroversion) and P(erceiving) had slight variances (aka. were on the border.  I'm highly adaptable to both, but have a preference to what's listed here), where (i)N(tuition) and F(eeling) were more moderate/pronounced.  We had a great conversation and we talked about how these traits carry me through work, rather feeding me energy or draining me.  I listed particular activities about the job that did either of those; it was easy to point out.  I was also curious how my attributes could be applied to another job and what sort of job would suit me better vs. what I'm currently doing, for example.  She said my eyes lit up when I spoke about this one job I'd contemplated applying for, only I didn't.

Food Service in a Hospice.

Crazy?  Not for me.  I've always wanted to work in Hospice or Palliative Care, ever since I was young and started volunteering in hospitals (back when I was 14; my friend MK and I started out fresh as Candy Stripers (yes, one 'p', thankyouverymuch :P) at the local hospital).  She actually continued a career in nursing and I in and out of hospitals, nursing homes and/or food.  I've always very much believed in and felt passionate about what I do at the hospital - giving the ONE thing that people can't live without - food.  It's sustaining, nourishing, healing.  I forget the importance of what I do, sometimes, getting too caught up in .. crap.  But what a service!

And whenever I heard, say, someone being on death row, it was natural for me that the first thing I would think of is, "Fine, but what kind of last meal are they getting?"

Sure, I thought I wanted to run a restaurant.  I wanted to reach people through food.  Communicate it's wholesomeness, warmth, comfort, sustenance.  Nourish them.  But how much better would it be if I gave that gift to someone who only had limited time to live?  And not only them, but their immediate family who visit them (that at times, can be daily - and that in itself is draining).

I could run a kitchen in a Hospice/Palliative Care setting.  I have the certification now (for institutional service).  I have tons of food service experience, in and out of institutions.  I have the passion, the care and the desire.  I would decide available meals (and they'd all be *fantastic* of course).  So why the hell DON'T I go for it?

To be continued......

:)

Emotions, Emotions, Everywhere

I haven't wanted to write about personal stuff for a while.  I've been working through some things (ugh..self work can be SO draining) and I just haven't felt in a sharing mood.  I feel my short-comings have been amplified and picked apart and judged (why is everyone so concerned with MY well-being lately?!  Honestly, I'm fine!  Or at least, I will be)... so I've been going into a sort of cocoon mode (I don't always want to talk about me!  Shocker, I know).  Besides, quietness grants more introspection.  Not always a bad thing.  When I need a time-out from my emotions, I know how to separate myself.

So.. let's talk about other stuff.  Health stuffs.  A lot has changed the past couple weeks.  After going off the antibiotics (only took half the prescription, they were making me *way* too sick otherwise) I also around the same time adapted a Gluten Free and reduced dairy diet (no more cows milk; now drinking almond milk, have very little cheese, but still eat yogurt every day).  Things I've noticed so far..

- decreased appetite (snacking has gone down)
- no sugar spikes
- in 12 days, a loss of 6lbs
- no cravings for breads at all (except a piece of toast.  I would KILL for a single piece of toast and butter)
- I'm medication-free aside from days/moments that I'm leery/want to do a preemptive (if I'm going out, etc)
- increasing fruits by far from previous intake, also veggies a bit

All in all, pretty damn good things!  The first few positives I've seen in a long time.  I'm going to try to use this motivation to get more walking in (so if you're local, hit me up) if I'm still feeling okay.  Especially with the nice weather.  Oh also, thanks to a talk with a friend tonight, I'm speculating I might have a sulphite sensitivity.  I'm going to test this moving forward; I'm interested to see.  Already, the theory has potential (as I look back at some of the things I've eaten and how I've reacted).  Will post more on this later.

Alright, keeping this short tonight.  Still recovering from tonight's endeavors and the Jazz Festival and Nuit Blanche last weekend (I lasted until 03:30 :) ).  Let me tell you, some of the BEST music is heard in back alleys or coffee houses in the wee hours of the morning.  For which I'm thankful.  I felt in my element.

Going Gluten Free

I have many adventures to write about yesterday's trip to Toronto (if I ever get around to it.  If I don't, the purpose for which I went made it a *very* successful day) but I will do that another time.  Today, is about health stuffs.

The doc put me on antibiotics, a bit to my protest.  Listen, if you know I'm taking these, you know I'm trying anything at this point.  We've almost completely run out of options (well, *I* think that, I know he still has stuff in mind).  These were the antibiotics that are trying to target certain bacteria in the gut that may be causing my problems (more on this later).  Ugh... they've made me so sick.  It's difficult to go anywhere so I've been boarded up in this apartment quite a lot, except for the purposes of work, appointments or (necessary) errands.  And when I do go out, I heavily medicate (wheee! more drugs!  /sarcasm).  I can't decide if I want to stay on them (I'm about half way done its course).  I keep telling myself 'short-term suffering for long-term gain' but I don't even know if they'll work!  Have I subjected my body to vulnerability without just cause?  Am I curing with medication when I've believed things can be cured through food/diet or lifestyle?  I just don't know.  Then he said it again (also in our previous visit)....

"You should try a gluten-free elimination diet for 4 weeks."

Last time I pretended not to hear him.  What are you talking about gluten free?  No breads?  Toast?  Pasta?  Cookies? (gasp! cookies!) No French cooking?!?! (how much gluten free French cooking do you know of?)  I think I might just cry at this point.  BEER!?!?  Denial is NOT just a river in Egypt.

So when he said it this time, I was ready to listen.  I still protested, don't get me wrong.  But what I soon realized was whining, was actually panic.  I don't know how to eat WITHOUT eating those things.  No oatmeal in the morning?  No toast as a filler between snacks, or before bed?  No grilled cheese sammiches?!  No relaxing beer on a Friday night at the pub?  Depressing.  But, if I want to feel better, I HAVE to try it.  Remember?  I'm trying anything.

The reason is thus (and I'm probably going to explain this totally wrong, so I apologize in advance); when I eat carbs (and I eat a lot, my friend), my gut can only process so much at a time.  What's leftover, ferments.  The bacteria in there is whoopin' it up, havin' a party (as it was explained to me, "it's like giving a kegger to a frat party").  More carbs?  More keggers.  That's what causes the pain, the sickness.  Your gut says, "Woa, too much!" and finds ways of elimination (I guess the frat boys are on their way home at this point).

So this also brings to suggestion about a fructose sensitivity (for the same fermentation/bacteria problem).  Now, I don't have an 'outright' problem with fruit.  I seem to ingest small enough portions at a time for it not to bother me; which isn't to say it's not a culprit, but I'll be cognizant of it for now.  It sure as hell explains why I can't drink apple cider (one drink of that and the pain, discomfort and sickness that ensues is enough to last me the year).

There's a six-food elimination diet (cow's milk, nuts & tree nuts, soy, shellfish and wheat/gluten - also see here) that's possible (it also seems to tie in with eosinophilic esophogitis which I'd never heard of until now), but he doesn't want me to go to that extreme right away.  Right now he just wants me to eliminate gluten and dairy.  If I try any first, I'll try the gluten (dairy will be easy, I don't consume THAT much.... or do I?).

So.. I've been spending the last few days mentally preparing.  What day I'll actually choose to give 'er a go?  No idea. Maybe Sept 1.  Which is right around the corner.  And I haven't begun shopping for gluten free foods.  Oh, please shoot me.

Wish me luck!

Article..

Came across this through a friend today, an article on how Antioxidants Don't Work.  Anyone have any thoughts?  Bix?  Life Resident?  Amanda?  Michelle?

Sounds like to me such levels need to be in a fine balance, just like everything else.  But is it that easy?

The Dietitian

I've kind of been avoiding writing this post; it just brings up the feelings of frustration that engulfed me Thursday morning.  I'm not quite sure where to start.

I was received promptly, and she knows of course from the referral I'm there for managing my IBS via dietary means; weight, we discussed, will be a secondary focus.  One of the *first* things I tell her is that I have a nutrition background, so she doesn't have to "spell things out" for me, per se, like she would for most people.  I'm not sure that was well received.  She gives me a handout on foods and groups of foods to avoid for people with IBS.  I'm thinking in the back of my head, "Why are you giving this to me?  I KNOW all of this."  But maybe she has to, so I keep my mouth shut and play along.  She asked what my food triggers were (she almost seemed surprised that I knew these), medications I'm on and other secondary health issues.  Naturally, being a Canadian-certified Dietitian, she was a firm believer in Canada's Food Guide, which she also promptly put in front of me (I'm trying to count how many copies I have of this now).  I also have, what I can best presume to be an activity guide (how to get more exercise), but I refuse to look at it seeing as I told her I was active in some form or another 5-7 days a week.  Also, expending large amounts of energy is difficult for me per my sugar.

Anyways... she also gave me a handout on foods in different categories and their serving size.  I was also given sheets to record, for the next 4 weeks, food intake and subsequent reactions.  Basically it's an elimination diet (which I've also done in a light, varying form).  Then I was just told to go with said information, follow up in 4 weeks and that's it.

Really?

.... Really?

She asked me at the end if all this was "okay" and I spoke up.  "No, it's not.  I need more guidance than that."  Well, at that point it was the end of the appointment.  As it was, we went 10 min over.  I asked her if she would create an example of a one-week meal plan.  She said she usually doesn't do that as people don't often like all the foods on it (really? I think we could work together on that) and people get "stuck".  Listen, I can't apply a change of diet without some assistance of application.

I'm frustrated because there was no inquiry or discussion of my lifestyle (which greatly affects how one eats), how often I work, eating habits (telling me to eat a 'balanced dinner' every night is a moot point; I'm not going to eat a full meal at 8pm when I have to be in bed for 9), how to incorporate eating to fit my other health concerns (other than eating "every 2 hours".  Yeah, I know that, thanks).  Just.. it was a complete fail.

I'm not saying I don't have things to learn from her, but I think she went in with an agenda (a poor one at that, but who am I to judge), I went in with high expectations (an after having witnessed some great dietitians at the hospital) and came out on a low.  I'm trying to think of how to best approach her to be more productive.  I know dietitians are capable of so much more, so, I don't know.

Anyways, I've gone on enough.  That's it.

Health Stuffs

I have a lot to catch up on, and no time to do it.  I can haz more time nao, plz?

I had my 3-month check-in with the G.I last week and I felt really good coming out of that visit.  The meds I'm on are helping more than they're not (the lack of perfection and minor side-effects are tolerable).  We discussed the possibility of using an antibiotic that's specially geared to targeting certain bacteria in the gut and rids of it.  I've heard about this before and was both intrigued and cautious.  He gave me a script for it but I want to do more research before I take it (for 10 days).  I'm very, very leery; I work in an environment that is plagued by various diseases and illnesses, but the most highly publicized C. diff recently.  I DON'T want ANY chance of getting that - I couldn't handle it on top of my already-occurring condition.  I'd have to be diligent with hand-hygiene, but at the same time we're human and things are or can be missed.  I would take a high-strength probiotic which would help a lot.  I wouldn't take it without it.  I expressed my concerns with the pharmacist and he understood what I was asking but had no concerns, citing this is one of the antibiotics with the least-range of side-effects, and how often this particular antibiotic is prescribed.  (Well duh, how the hell do you think C. diff is acquired? *smacks hand to forehead*)

Anyways, he gave me the prescription, knowing I prefer not to medicate (I agreed).  He spoke about how studies are being done the past few months and they're not quite sure how long to take it.  People will take it, they'll get better, they'll stop said med, and get worse again.  Well, with an antibiotic you can't keep taking it.  Heavens, it can't be good for the body.  So I don't quite understand that.  I'm still doing my research.  Then he says at the end, "Would you like to meet with a Dietitian?"  I exclaim with a boyant, "HELL YES!".  Pfft.. he kept talking after that and I wasn't even listening.  All I said was, "You don't have to ask twice".

Sigh.  It's all I ever wanted.

I also thought I'd have to wait forever for it.  Nope.  Just a week and some.  I can't wait.  Prayers have been answered. So we exited the appointment with a few laughs and I was on my way.  I'm lucky that he's so personable and easy to talk to.  I lucked out, there.

So... I don't think there's much else, health-wise, anyways.

Egg Farming Practices - News

Just ran across this article so wanted to post it while it's fresh..

If anyone has an interest about your eggs, where they come from, how the chickens are contained/treated, animal welfare, etc.. then read this article on Poultry Welfare, now instituted by the Egg Farmers of Canada.

I Broke It

I broke my Lent.  I had bacon today with brunch.

And it was glorious.

To be fair, today's a Feast day, so if I understood CZ yesterday, I am allowed.  I wanted to try it, really, because my stomach has not been doing well still, for the past couple weeks and I've been wondering if it's per lack of protein.  Today I'll make a heavy protein day and see what happens (so far it's been positive!).  I've already had half my usual protein.  CZ reminded me that sometimes we do things for ourselves even though we have the best of intentions of doing it for ourselves or for other people (me: giving up meat for dietary reasons, dedicating it to T.) but perhaps what I needed to give up was my pride (realizing I may not be able to go without meat because it's hurting my system too much.  Did any of that make sense?).  That was a hard pill to swallow (what? I'm human to a fault).  Today had been 16 days without meat.  If today continues to go well, I'll have to experiment if I can keep high protein without meat and have the same results, or if I will in fact have to program meat back in.  We'll see!

What else do I need to write about...

I'm finally starting to detox, de-stress and relax.  Of course, the time I do this, my vacation week is almost over and it's back to work Monday.  I will do my best to adapt to a laisez-faire sort of attitude and relax with what time I have left.  There might even be baking today!

Yesterday was nice catching up with a couple of friends I haven't seen in a while, and brunch with one today. I wonder if that's what started to help me unwind - human connection.  Good 'ol girl time.

Today will be filled with bookkeeping and finances.  I need to get my taxes done and do some budgeting and figure out what I really can afford to take on as far as vehicular expenses go.  Wish me luck.

Doctors.  Bloody, bloody doctors.  I hate them all.  I went to see my obgyn yesterday to discuss screening for endometriosis (per my app't with the GI thinking we may need to investigate that).  Well, she doesn't go "looking for it" and she threw me in the classification of "well, everyone has pain during their cycle" and "everyone's bowels are affected by their cycle".  Really?  I must not be the same cause when I gave her an analogy of the pain I'm having, she was a bit taken aback.  So, I can see this is going to go well.  Can you imagine?  My IBS as a result of stupid endometriosis?  The con: treated with hormones, which I DON'T want.  Anyways, I can rant forever about this and I don't want to right now, so... sorry 'bout that.

Canada will be going into election territory in May.  We're displeased.  The current government is toppling and we don't want Mr. Harper in power anymore, yet no one wants to go to the polls (they're far too frequent here, I fear).  So this will be interesting.

Well, daylight's burning so I better get my shit done.  It's Friday!!  For some of you, that's a blessing, for those who work this weekend, sorry :(  Hang in there.  It's sunny here (though very cold), so try and enjoy the day!

Upcoming Lent

Good morning, from an early Saturday!  Slept in a few minutes and was up at 0630 today.  I'm sitting with my oatmeal and it's about 7am.  I'll be heading to market soon to stock up for the next week.  I just can't wait for eggs! :)

Let me preface the rest of this conversation by saying Lent is just around the corner (commencing with Ash Wednesday next week).  Most people are quite familiar, but just in case... it's 40 days, from Ash Wednesday to Easter Monday.  One characteristically gives up something for Lent, to try to bring them closer to God (and if one is astute, uniting their suffering with His), but one can also "take up" something as well; perhaps by including a newer, more positive task they've been meaning to (having a better prayer life, dedicating more time to the needy, or what have you.  It can be anything).

The past 2-3 years I try to give up swearing (with another task I decide for that year).  For 40 days of the year, I try not to be a potty mouth.  Yes it sounds silly and I'm quite sure it is, but when you use expletives as much as I do for a simple stress relief, it gets quite challenging.  But my second task dawned on me in a very instant, dramatic sort of way last night (picture the heavens opening, a light shining down and the choral, "Aaahhhh" being heard) - I'm giving up meat for Lent.  Me.  Meat.  For Lent.  I mean, I have meat like, 3-7 times a week.  As much as I'm in shock over it, it feels right.  Here's why....

a) My health.  I've been curious about going vegetarian for a while now to see how it'll affect my G.I system (and the rest of me, for that fact).

b) I'm dedicating this part of my Lent to T. (my friend/co-worker in CCU who's still not doing well).  She's a big health advocate and I think she'd totally be behind me if I decided to try it.  I will also unite my suffering with hers and all the obstacles she currently faces and will face in the future.

So.. I'm going to need your support (and understanding for the days I come on here and whine about it.. lol).  Though I need to have faith that He will give me the strength I need to be as successful with this as possible.  I usually just observe the no-meat-on-Fridays rule during Lent (and that's hard at times), so this will be a doozy.  Oh no!  What about when I go out for breakfast with friends?!  No eggs and bacon!  :O  Omelette it is......sigh.....

A Lot Of Changes

A lot of health babble.  Skip if this doesn't interest you.  I won't be offended ;)

Well, this morning I had my appointment with the endocrinologist.  FINALLY.  That appointment seemed to take forever (as it turns out, thanks to my doc. I told him it took 4 months to get that app't and he said that my GP didn't write much, other than "Hypoglycemia?", so there was no rush. Nice, eh?).  Fact 1: He liked to listen to himself talk, I think.  He did a lot of that.  At first I thought he was spouting a lot of usual b.s that's in the textbooks that he's studied and knows by heart, but it turned out that he *did* listen to what I had to say and he *did* regurgitate back information pertaining to certain issues.  So you can take that however you like, I guess.  He really did talk a lot and he was soft-spoken, so that was a challenge.  Fact 2: He listened to my concerns and I'm *finally* getting my thyroid checked.  In fact, it was no issue to him at all.  Fact 3: He was honest and said it how it was; "I don't think that's what it is and I think *you* know that's not what it is, but we'll test it to confirm process of elimination and to alleviate any larger concerns".  Y'know what?  Deal.  That's all I ask.

We know it's not hypoglycemia; I just don't have the numbers.  My argument is, why do I have the symptoms but not the numbers?  (To which I argue it might be hormonal.)  That, he said, can be anything.  But, we're going to look into it and he gave me a name of another gastroenterologist that can help; one that's more new to the scene and updated on things the other (longer-in-the-game) gastro may have missed.  He understands the last one just didn't understand what was wrong, slapped a label on it because they don't investigate further and done and wash their hands of it (to which I kind of freaked out and said, "But WHY don't they find a solution?!" Heh. Oops.  He responded, "Some things we're just not meant to understand. Why do certain people get cancer?"  Touche).  He also thinks IBS is just a blanket term on a grander problem.  When he said that, he won me over, because I've felt that since Day One.  That eased me a LOT.

Stopped in at my chiropractors office after on the way back downtown and chanced it to see if she had a spare moment to do an adjustment (without an app't).  Luck be have it, she did!  So I got an adjustment and we talked about things and she suggested a change in diet (well, duh).  Ready for this?  Instead of oatmeal and orange juice in the morning, I have to have steel cut oats (I thought you'd like that, Bix), egg and milk.  NO (orange) JUICE.  I might cry a little 'cause I love my juice in the morning (you have no idea.. I'm really attached to it!) but it programs my brain to crave sugar the rest of the day - and I do - so that's not healthy.  Basically she wants me to try the Atkins Diet for 2 weeks.  Even one week, if I can manage.  "You need to give your pancreas a break," she says.  So true.  Sigh.  I'll try.  But how do you change 34 years of eating?!

Gah.

So, we're doing some blood work and we'll go from there.  Not sure what else there is to mention.  Will keep you posted!

Drink Milk?

Borrowed video from a post by Bix at Fanatic Cook.

In the States?  Drink milk?  Care about what's in your milk?  You might want to see this, a blurb about Eli Lilly, which is a pharmaceutical company in the States (as the video says, for example, they create drugs for treatment of breast cancer).  Ironically, they also manufacture rBGH, a synthetic hormone that is injected into dairy cows, whose milk is believed to increase the risk of cancer.  That hormone was sold to them by none other than.... Monsanto.  Thankfully, it's banned here.

Studies

Well, I've been working on my Sanitization and Safety course (#5 of 6) and I'm really enjoying it so far.  The following post may or may not appeal to some of you, but I need to talk it out, so you might as well come along for the ride :)  I've come across a bit of a... how can I say...lack of understanding on a subject.  Before I get to that, I'll review a few things I've learned (or re-learned from forgetting) that I'd like to share.

PHF (Potentially Hazardous Foods) are any foods that are capable of supporting the rapid growth of (infectious and toxic) bacteria.  PHF's are foods high in protein or carbohydrates, have a pH above 4.6 and a water activity above 0.85.  The requirements for said bacteria growth is from 6 conditions - FATTOM*.

Food (high in protein or carbohydrates)
Acidity (pH 4.6 to 7.0)
Time (4 hours)
Temperature (4°C-60°C)
Oxygen (though some can even survive without)
Moisture (water activity higher than 0.85)

What I'm having a problem understanding is bacteria and spores.  It says all bacteria exist in a vegetative state, but the text defines vegetative state as, "the active state of a bacterium in which the cells take in nourishment, grows and produces waste".  That, to me, defies "vegetative".  If something is vegetative, it doesn't do anything, especially to which being active and producing waste.  Mental block #1.  Next fact; some bacteria have the ability to produce spores (which help bacteria survive in stressful environments), but spores are *not* active.  They are though, resistant to stress and can be harmful if eaten (and can live for months on a subject).  So I'm trying to wrap my head around inactive bacteria that's actually active and spores that are inactive but promote...activity.  AARGH!!

*To help with understanding, in case it all seems Greek, examples of each are as follows... 
Protein and carbs are self-explanatory, but if you need me to expand, tell me.
Acidity - pH ranges from 0-14, 7 being neutral (distilled water). Under 7 is acidic (i.e chicken, milk, soupls, pickles, mayo), over is alkaline (soda crackers, egg whites).
Temperature - foods should be held outside of above stated temps.
Time -  4 hours is a danger zone; food shouldn't be held in unstable temps longer than this, though some texts state even 2 hrs).  We observe 1-1.5 hrs at the hospital.
Moisture - water activity (symbol: Aw) is rated from 0-1.0.  0.85-1.0: dairy, poultry, meats, shellfish, melons, steamed rice. 0-0.85: dry pasta, flour, uncut fruits and veggies, jams & jellies, frozen food.

Pork In A Petrie Dish

Yes, you read correctly.  *shudders*

I was going to say vegans and vegetarians 'move along', but even your food has GMO's (soy).  So this might get your thinking, too.

I'd like you to read this article from the CBC on how scientists are attempting to produce pork in labs.  I have a million thoughts about this article.  I know it's nothing new, as GMO's are swiftly gaining ground.  More than we realize.

The article, thankfully, looks at both positive and negative attributes to this.  Though, I'm not even sure I agree with the positive.  They start to say fish stem cells could be used to replicate omega 3 fatty acids.  Don't replicate the cells, just EAT THE DAMN FISH.  *sigh*  (Sorry, you can see the issues I'm having with this whole.. fake food thing).

Also from the article, "You could possibly design a hamburger that prevents heart attacks instead of causing them".  Then you know what?  Don't eat 5 hamburgers a week! *sighs again*

Haha... none of the researchers have eaten the lab meat yet.  I can't imagine why.  My anger and frustration are caused by this:  Replicated meat (or any food, for that fact) made in a laboratory can NOT be good for us.  It will *never* contain the complete nutritional value we get from eating these foods.  Regardless of how we're starting to condition ourselves as a society ("meat is bad, causes high cholesterol", etc), eating these foods is good, but only in moderation.  When you're able, eat organic.  Omnivores/carnivores: get to know your local abattoir.  *Know* where your food is coming from.  Get your meats, vegetables and even dairy at your local farmers market (I'll get into the whole 'eat local' rant another time)  Don't be afraid to ask questions  :)

The article continues to say, "If it proves possible, experts say growing meat in laboratories instead of raising animals on farmland would do wonders for the environment.".  I highly disagree.  Omitting animals out of our eco system can have grave results.  Yes, the expert who quoted that could be right; it would reduce greenhouse gases, but it doesn't expand how it affects the rest of us.  It's a circle; man depends on animal, depends on crops (feeding), relies on man, relies on... well.. you get it.  


The only positive I can agree with in the article, is that it may alleviate world hunger.  But if some of us aren't willing to feed it to ourselves, how can we justify feeding it to someone else?


This article struck a nerve because yes, I know science is advancing and I know these things are going to happen.  It scares the crap out of me, but anyways.  My fear stems from legislation.  I'm afraid our governments won't label GMO's (they get away with so much already).  We have to know what we're putting in our bodies.  We deserve to know where our food comes from.  


The article closes with, I think, a very (twisted) humourous quote, "As long as it's cheap enough....I can't see any reason people wouldn't eat it."  The geneticist continues to say, "If you look at sausages and other things people are willing to eat these days, this should not be a big problem."  Oh... how I wonder if he had a snide look on his face when he was saying that.  

Spelt

I experimented with spelt flour this morning. I'd like to incorporate it more into my cooking/baking. I did some reading before using it and it doesn't rise like regular white flour (it's more soluble) so to use less liquid. When my pancake recipe called for 1 cup of milk, I used 3/4c and I could have still gotten away with less. They weren't "big, fluffy" pancakes, but they were definitely still good (also made with cane sugar and vanilla from the Dominican Republic). I've included a picture (sorry, terrible quality. I wasn't bringing out the regular camera, so I used my phone, which was handy and nearby).

Spelt, by nutritional standards, has higher protein levels than regular white wheat varieties. It's also richer in B vitamins and fiber. They say the carbohydrates in spelt are helpful in enhancing the immune system (something we can always use) and helps to clot blood. It's been around for thousands of years; believed to be started in the Eastern Europe/Southwest Asia border. It became much more popular in Europe around 2500 B.C., then common in Britain around 500 B.C. It came to the United States late, around the 1890's but was replaced by bread wheat in the 20th century. Organic farmers are helping it make a comeback today due to its nutritional content.

Have you used spelt before? What were your results?

Going Dairy Free

Well, I went to the bookstore today, for the hell of it, and perused the shelves. Came across a couple books on IBS. One I bought, which was an entire book on it, from a medical (and anatomic) perspective and the other I flipped through as it just had a section I was interested in. In this section they discussed holistic ways to control IBS. One was adding glucosamine (which I'm all for), one was for adding calcium magnesium citrate (controls the contractions of the intestines; I'll have to do more research into this one).. and the other was going dairy free.

It's so simple, it should have occurred to me sooner. I react to high sugars. Milk has sugars. Duh. I don't know why I didn't think of it. I really *don't* think I'm lactose intolerant; I don't have strong (or any, really) reactions after consuming dairy, but you know what? At this stage of the game, I'm about to try anything.

I was going to cut myself off cold turkey today since I'm out of milk and it would prohibit me from buying more, but I'm going to start slow. I'm NOT going to buy milk. I'm going to use up a bit what I already have in the house (cheese, cream in coffee, etc). You're supposed to do the challenge for x-amount of days. Some sources say 10, the book I read said 14. I will try 14. So... I will drink no milk at all this week. I will put cream in my coffee (going by my reaction of not having cream in the house this morning for said coffee, I'd say I'm not 'ready' yet), eat up the rest of the cheese I have, but next week I'll be off ALL dairy, and do that for at least a week.

Then I'll re-introduce milk. If I react, I'll try organic milk next. If I react to THAT, then I might have no choice but to go off dairy completely, or in very small amounts. I'll be surprised as to what happens. Stay tuned!

Edit: I'm sensitive to fructose and don't respond well to it, which is why I'm testing lactose. They say the two are usually connected together.

Gingerale

I just took a swig of the gingerale I (rarely) have in the fridge. It says, "Made with real ginger" and "made with 100% real flavours, including real ginger". So I look at the ingredients. As follows...

Carbonated water, sugar/glucose-fructose, citric acid, natural flavour, sodium benzdate, colour.

....Where's the ginger? In the "natural flavours"? Why don't they, then, say.. I don't know.. GINGER.

*sigh*

More Carrageenan...

Well, this has started a whirlwind, hasn't it?

I did more research; carrageenan is based in Neilson's *chocolate* milk products only. I've tried linking to ingredients of white and chocolate milk, but they have the same website. So, go to Neilson's Dairy website - Products -> Milk (you'll get a listing for all 4 types). Then, on the right-hand side, you can select chocolate milk to see that ingredient list. Yeah. A bit of a difference.

I perused the site some more and found it's in items such as sour cream, but not in (most) yogurts. I found the lower the fat content in yogurt, the more presence of carrageenan. Interesting.

Blue Diamond Almond Milk has a much higher nutritional content than 'regular' milk, but like I said, unfortunately has our friend (as mentioned, 7th ingredient).

For the fun of it, I took a look at another favourite dairy brand, Organic Meadow. Their chocolate milk also has it in it, but no other dairy products do. So there's something about chocolate milk that requires this thickening agent (aside from other products, we agree, but this all started with chocolate milk, so..). As a bonus, their sour cream doesn't contain it, nor their yogurt, though sadly their ice cream does (but it's the very last ingredient).

So, if we're deciding what we're putting into our bodies when it comes to dairy and dairy ingredients, what wins? Choosing one product over another because it has an ingredient we're trying to avoid? Should we always choose organic? Should we look at other options for calcium and vitamin alternatives?