Eggs: Harmful or Helpful?

This next question comes from Maja, from Tucson, AZ

She asks:

"Are eggs as bad as smoking a cigarette? According to the Fox News this morning, there is a study stating that eating more than 4 eggs a week can be harmful to one's health."


Answer:

Thanks, Maja, for that very important question.

It seems like eggs have had a bad rap for quite some time now.  Remember the days where "fake" eggs were all the rage?  I remember consuming the "food like substance" in college, all because I was afraid of eggs.  I thought they were absolutely evil.  

Why have we been so afraid of eggs?  Mainly because of the cholesterol content.  It seems it is this reason alone,  that researchers  recently used to try to convince people that consuming eggs can be just as bad as smoking.  

First, comparing eggs to tobacco, in my opinion, is absolutely ridiculous. Tobacco is a drug that contains the highly addictive, Nicotene.   Smoking is the single greatest cause of preventable death.  It is a major risk factor for heart attacks, stroke, COPD and cancer. It just doesn't make sense to compare a drug that causes so much destruction, to a complete, whole food.  I don't recall "excessive egg consumption" as a typical cause of death. Hmm..

 The reason why these "experts" make this comparison is because smoking has been shown to cause hardening of the arteries, which is what some people say is mainly caused by too high of LDL (bad) cholesterol.  Since eggs are known to contain cholesterol, the conclusion is made that eggs are just as bad as smoking, based on certain research that shows that a too high cholesterol content increases the risk of heart disease.

So, what is this study that Maja mentions?

According to CNN:

"The study published online in the journal Atherosclerosis found eating egg yolks regularly increases plaque buildup about two-thirds as much as smoking does. Specifically, patients who ate three or more yolks a week showed significantly more plaque than those who ate two or less yolks per week."

Now, let's dig a little deeper here.  It's important to not blindly follow every study out there. If we did, we would be tossed to and fro between every extreme view out there, like a boat tossed around in a storm. 

What is the number one question we should ask ourselves when a study is performed?  
WHO FUNDED THE STUDY? 

According to NaturalNews.com,  this study was authored by scientists who have financial ties with BIG PHARMA. (aka the pharmaceutical companies)

Secondly, question the validity of the study.  A reliable study is what would be considered as Gold Standard. What that means is that it is a double blind, placebo controlled, independent study. 

This study seemed to based on mere speculation.  The participants chosen all had existing cardiovascular issues. Strike one right there.  Also, waist measurements and physical activity were not taken into account.  Lastly, what about the rest of their diet?  How do they know the eggs were the culprit, and not Double Cheeseburgers? 

So back to the original topic, which is what scientists are blaming cardiovascular risk on in the first place.  

It is what we have feared for years now.... CHOLESTEROL.

Cholesterol is found in many foods, and, admittedly, eggs do contain about 237 milligrams of it. 
However, this does not mean we need to be afraid of it.  In fact, the liver produces about 75% of our cholesterol.  It is necessary for keeping us alive! What we really need to look at is the size of the cholesterol particles...we need particles that are large, light and fluffy, as opposed to the small and dense kind that can build plague and harden arteries. 

Studies are now showing that it is not high cholesterol that is causing these damaging, small cholesterol particles..... it is sugar.  Insulin resistance is a major problem in this society.  Diabetes is very common.  Many people deal with a high triglyceride level.  This problem is not caused by fats, it is caused by excessive sugar intake.

So, going back to BIG PHARMA'S  vested interest in this recent study comparing eggs to smoking..... what is the real issue here?  This is just one more way to get people to take Statin drugs to help prevent heart disease...... scare tactics are such a great way to get people to give up on their diet and resort to a quick fix.  

So what are the benefits of eggs? One great thing about eggs is that they actually increase HDL, which is the good cholesterol.

I, for one, really love eggs.  Not only do I enjoy the taste,  I love how they are a complete protein. They also contain 13 essential nutrients, which all happen to be in the  yolk. Eggs are an excellent source of B vitamins, Vitamin E, Vitamin A and Vitamin D.  They also contain important omega 3's which are great for preventing heart disease. 

 I personally wouldn't recommend more than one a day though, (two on occasion), as eggs are very acidic. We want to strive to have a diet that is mostly alkaline to the body.  A good pH level is the perfect balance between acidic and alkaline.  An example of alkaline foods are leafy greens, (such as spinach and kale),   vegetables, almonds, flax seeds, sunflower seeds, avocados, lemons and limes.  

I would encourage you to look for eggs that are organic as well as pasture raised.  This insures the highest quality of nutrition, as well as no antibiotics and hormones.  Locally raised eggs from pasture raised chickens are ideal.

Overall, my opinion is that eggs are great, and should not be feared.  Combined with an overall healthy diet and lifestyle,  moderate egg consumption can be a beneficial addition to anyone's diet.

Enjoy your eggs! :)

For more info, check out: http://www.naturalnews.com/037062_eggs_junk_science_financial_ties.html

http://drhyman.com/blog/conditions/why-cholesterol-may-not-be-the-cause-of-heart-disease/



Kellie
www.nourishedandnew.com

Foods To Help Eczema

Jamie, from Flagstaff, AZ asks:

Are there any foods that help or foods to avoid with 

children with eczema problems?


Answer:  Eczema can be such a frustrating problem! The dryness and itchiness can be bothersome, especially for children.  So, if your child suffers from that, then I am sorry to hear that.

First, for those readers who don't know, eczema is a type of skin rash that is characterized by itchiness, redness and scaliness. 

I, personally, don't have a lot of experience with this condition, but I do know that diet does play a big role. 

Many times, eczema can be triggered by food allergies.  So the first thing I would recommend to you, if you haven't already done so, is to order a blood test for the major allergens, such as wheat, corn, soy and eggs. 

If you don't want to go the testing route, you could always do an elimination diet for one month.  You could either completely eliminate all the possible offending foods at once, and then slowly add them back in, one week at a time, or you could eliminate one food at a time.  It's important to stay consistent with this and to jot down and changes, either positive or negative, especially once the food is introduced back into the diet. 

Also, dairy can be a major culprit, either in triggering eczema, or in making it worse. Many people have found relief once they eliminate dairy from their diet.  My personal belief is that cow's milk is not necessary for anyone's diet, regardless of age or condition. 

If you do eliminate dairy and are wondering about calcium intake, rest assured that there are many other ways to get calcium, such as leafy greens, (especially kale), sunflower seeds, and oranges.  There are many great alternative milks that contain added calcium, such as almond milk and coconut milk.  (I don't recommend soy milk on a daily basis, as it can mess with your hormones and possibly cause early puberty for girls, or breast cancer for women). Speaking of hormones... cow's milk does the same thing! 

Based on my research.... it seems like the general consensus is to eliminate or at least greatly reduce fried foods and processed foods, to help eczema.  Basically, having a diet that is as close to 100% whole food as much as possible, is ideal... for anyone, but more so, for those who suffer from certain conditions, such as eczema, as the preservatives and additives could worsen it.

As far as what to take to help with it, studies show that many are deficient in certain vitamins, such as magnesium and vitamin B6.  In this case, supplementation may help. (look for a whole food supplement, such as Juice Plus+) 

 Taking omega 3 supplements have also been shown to work, as well as a good quality probiotic, to help heal the gut. 

Let me know if you need recommendations for children's products!

As far as actual foods that could help:

1. Salmon- contains loads of omega 3s which are great for the skin. Aim to serve fish once or twice a week (but no more than that because of the mercury content) 

2. Foods that contain quercetin, which is a bio-flavonoid that contains antioxidant, antihistamine, and ant-inflammatory properties.  Foods that contain this are, apples, broccoli, red grapes, cherries and cranberries.

3. Foods that contain zinc, such as eggs (if not allergic) and oats and pumpkin seeds. (oysters are highest in zinc, but most kids don't normally eat them!)

I would also say to try adding avocados, and coconut oil to your child's (and the whole family's) diet. 

Foods rich in monounsaturated fats, such as these, are great for skin health.  

Coconut oil is a fabulous, all natural moisturizer!!

It hardens in the refrigerator, so if you need it in liquid form, make sure and keep it out on the counter, in a cool, dry place.  Just a little dab will do ya! 

Of course, making sure to drink plenty of fresh water will help too!!

I hope this helps. Please let me know what you try and if it works!

Have a great Labor Day!

Kellie

Nourished And New
www.nourishedandnew.com

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Can Honey Cure Allergies?

Time for the next question!

Mary, from AZ, asks:

"What is the story on honey? Is locally grown best? Does it really help fight allergies or anything else?"

Answer:

This is a timely question because as I type, I am battling what seems like seasonal allergies.  This is not something I normally struggle with, but when it happens, the constant sneezing and runny nose makes for a not so fun day!

Honey can be very beneficial in it's natural, unprocessed state.  Raw honey contains an array of enzymes, plus B vitamins, minerals such as calcium, iron and magnesium and even vitamin C.

So let's talk first about what to look for when buying honey so that you can be sure to find the honey that is the most beneficial to your health.

You want to look for raw honey versus processed honey.  Most commercial honeys have been heated to make for a more clean, smooth looking honey.  Pasteurization also kills any yeast and prevents fermentation.  However, the downside to this is that the heat kills important enzymes, vitamins and minerals in the process.  In fact, some honeys on the shelf isn't even what it claims to be-- manufacturers have added corn syrup and even sometimes artificial coloring which leaves the customer with just a glop of processed sugar.  Not what you want to put in your tea or oatmeal, is it?

It's easy to spot raw honey, as it is clearly states "raw" on the label.

The next best thing is to find honey that is not only raw but also local.  The reason for this has to do with allergies, like you had asked about.

Evidence has been mostly anecdotal, but many people have claimed that raw, local honey has helped diminish or eliminate their allergies.  The reason for this is because as the bees pollinate the flowers, the pollen gets carried with them to the hive.  Now, this may seem odd to be eating something that contains pollen as that is the very thing many of us are allergic to.  However,  think of honey as a type of vaccine.  Your body develops an immune response to it, and if taken on a regular basis, could help prevent allergies.

The reason it is best consumed from a local source is because if it's out of state,  you may not be allergic to that particular flower.

As a side note, I always encourage buying local when possible anyway-- let's support our local farmers!

As far as scientific studies... there is not much out there.  I did find two different small scale studies, both of which used a placebo group. One study found that there was not conclusive evidence that honey helps with allergies and the other study found that it indeed does help.

On a personal note...I just like the taste of  raw honey anyway, so I always take a tablespoon when first coming down with something.  Does it work for me?  Well, it seemed to a few months ago, but this week, so far it hasn't.

I would also encourage buying honey that contains royal jelly and bee pollen as well, as that could make the biggest difference as far as helping with allergies since it contains more of the whole source and not just an extract.

So, I would just encourage you to try raw honey, preferably local and see how it helps you!

I also wanted to give a shout out to my good friend, Mary Metzger.

She is involved with a wonderful company that sells natural products.  One product is called:

"Bee Natural Tablets" which is a great way to get all the nutrients from the hive, as the product contains royal jelly, propolis and honey.

Right now, she has a GREAT offer that expires on Sept. 17th!
Check it out here:

Online Promo Code: FREE WEBSITE 091712 (that's the expiration date)

Here's the link:  https://www.essanteorganics.com/mm

Offer Expires September 17, 2012

Please contact Mary with any questions about the product! 

What do you all think of honey? Has it helped your allergies? Please comment below!

Healthy Alternatives To Coffee Creamer

Next question!  

Christina from CA asks:                              

"I really enjoy a cup of coffee every morning, sweetened and with creamer. What is the healthiest way to make my coffee yummy as I know what I'm doing now isn't (store bought sweetened liquid creamer) I cannot stand black coffee! "

Kellie's Answer:

Thanks for the question, Christina!  I, too, used to not be able to drink black coffee! I was hooked on the creamers, but then I realized they contain high fructose corn syrup and artificial sweetener, which is probably what you have noticed as well.  (not to mention the empty calories)

Here are my ideas for a healthy alternative:

1. half and half -- if you are able to tolerate dairy, you could try this, as it does not contain anything artificial.  however, many people are sensitive to dairy, so this is not something I recommend to everyone

2. coconut milk - or coconut creamer- So Delicious brand carries a really great coconut milk,  as well as coconut creamer. If you don't mind the taste of coconut, this would be a good alternative, as coconuts are so good for our health!

3. liquid stevia-- though you only need about 1 drop, as it is super sweet. some people don't care for the taste; however this is an option if you don't so much need the liquid, but really just need something to sweeten the coffee. Stevia is all natural and made from a plant (with a really long name that contains the word stevia!) other good sweeteners would be honey or coconut sugar (which is low glycemic)


For myself, I started off with half and half. I then switched to almond milk in my coffee, but didn't really like how it tasted.  After awhile, I began to appreciate the taste of the black coffee.  So your palate can be trained, but for now, I hope you enjoy trying out some of these ideas!  

Blessings,
Kellie


"Schedule a FREE "Fit and Fabulous Breakthrough Session today!"  I would be happy to talk with you about your goals and how I can support you!  Check out www.nourishedandnew.com

Check out this picture of a Dragon Fruit! I never bought one before until today.  So pretty! I"ll be anxious to cut it open and try it.

Is Craving Carbs A Good Thing?

Today is a nice, cloudy day in Phoenix- I'm lovin' it!!

Okay- it is time for the NEXT  question!!

Gail, from Phoenix asks:

 "When I am extra tired during the day, I want to eat carbs like pasta and sometimes I feel better. Am I confusing being tired with being hungry or listening to my body that I may need carbs?"


Answer:

That is an excellent question! 

Most people crave carbs for one of two reasons: 1. They are tired or 2. They are depressed. 
First let me explain why it is normal to crave carbs when we are tired.  All carbs turn into glucose in the body, just like a candy bar.  Carbs can be considered low-glycemic or high glycemic. Any carbohydrate that is made from white, refined flour is considered high glycemic. That means that the glucose (sugar) from the carb is processed very quickly in the body. So one reason people may get into the habit of craving carbs is because they are tired and in need of that "sugar rush". However, what happens after that?  Normally the blood sugar drops and the person is tired again.  
If the carb makes you feel better, then i would guess that either it is because you were temporarily in need of glucose, or because your body is needing serotonin. 
Serotonin is considered the "feel-good" hormone and is produced when one eats carbs.  Many people who are depressed are naturally low in serotonin.  A person does not have to labeled as "depressed" to be considered low in this hormone. However, it is normally the go-to food of choice when a person is in need of comfort food.
It sounds like you are mainly craving it because you really are  tired and in need of some extra energy.  Craving pasta is totally normal.  However, I would encourage you to replace  your pasta with either some kind of whole grain such as quinoa (which is low glycemic meaning there is no sugar rush and crash) or a natural pick me up such as a banana or raw almonds.  
If you do find you are eating when you aren't hungry, try a different kind of pick me up, such as putting on some upbeat music, or calling a friend.

Take care!

Kellie

www.nourishedandnew.com

In Need Of A Massage?

I am going to make this short and sweet!

Who else enjoys getting a massage?  If you live in Phoenix and are looking for a massage experience like no other, check out the Hawaiian Experience Spa!  It is a very relaxing atmosphere and the massage was really wonderful.

Check out this contest!!


Hawaiian Experience Spa is giving away $500 in spa gift certificates. You can enter here: 

http://hawaiianexperiencespa.com/spa-giveaway-2012.php  or by clicking HERE


Enjoy!!