Analyze your ANS

There is no end to the wonders that are built into the human body. We are "pre-programmed" to survive - no matter what! Even against the most frightening or discouraging odds, our bodies cling to life.

In order to achieve this major goal, we have each been given an incredible system for managing and healing injuries and for maintaining the function of all the basic systems that spell L-I-F-E to the body.

This amazing master/director is called the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS).

The ANS is composed of three branches:

1) Enteric - sometimes called the "gut brain," because it manages every aspect of digestion

2) Para-sympathetic - responsible for repair, restoration, relaxation, and maintenance

3) Sympathetic - the "fight-or-flight" branch that goes into gear when you need an immediate rush of energy to handle a sudden emergency. It will direct blood and energy to the heart, lungs, and muscles to help you run from danger, for example.

Normally, and for good health, the para-sympathetic and enteric branches dominate the sympathetic branch. They continually support the brain and central nervous network, plus the digestive system. Digestion is basically inhibited by the interruption of the sympathetic function, but that is always intended to be temporary. The other two branches resume "business as usual" when the emergency is over.

When dominance between the para-sympathetic and sympathetic branches is too frequently reversed, our health suffers.

Therein lies one reason for the many health problems in this fast-paced culture. The continual stresses we encounter every day trigger the constant activation of the sympathetic system at a low level. This subjugates and impedes the important action of the parasympathetic and enteric systems. Several undesirable things can happen in this situation of imbalance:

- poor food choices are often made to manage the stress, such as caffeine, alcohol, sugar and so-called comfort foods

- enzyme production and activity can decrease

- over-production of cortisol in the brain, which affects digestion

- gut bacterial balance may be thrown off

- immune system response can be affected by the digestive woes

Each item on that list means trouble!

There is plenty of help, however. Many of you receive periodic Heart Rate Analysis tests, which reveal the ANS balance/imbalance in YOUR body Dietary counseling, whole food supplements and herbs can all make a big difference in helping your body get back on track.

We're here to help! Call us for an appointment at (562) 861-3896

Good To Know...

Oversee your Omega-3's

As we've all heard, our bodies require Omega-3 fatty acids for good health. Fortunately, these are bio-available from several well-known foods - but they often occur in small amounts. That means we need to focus on getting enough Omega-3's by regularly consuming as many of these foods as possible.

For those who are concerned about the Omega 3-Omega 6 ratio, some of these listed foods do contain both types. However, it makes sense to me that natural foods that are organically grown (or from grass-fed animals) are not a health hazard. Omega-6 fats from artificial, refined food products cause the damage.

Here are some Omega-3-containing foods to consciously, regularly add to your intake:

Wild-caught oily fish, such as salmon
Flaxseeds (freshly ground) and flaxseed oil
Walnuts
Chia seeds, Pumpkin seeds
Green leafy vegetables, including kale, spinach, parsley, mint
Broccoli
Cabbage
Brussels sprouts
Eggs from pastured chickens
Grass-fed cattle meats
Raw milk and raw cheese from grass-fed cows
Microalgae

Dr. Russell Blaylock tells us that Omega-3 fatty acids bring quite a number of health benefits. There are other contributing factors to good health, as well, but this is a great start. Here is a partial list:.

Aid in the prevention of preeclampsia ( sudden hypertension during pregnancy), premature births, depression, autoimmune diseases, arrhythmia, cardiovascular disease

Modulate anger, anxiety, fear, bipolar disorder

Protect the brain - of babies, children, and adults

As you pursue the goal of optimum health, please remember to include a variety of these Essential Fatty Acids (EFFs) foods in your daily diet.

Call us anytime at (562) 861-3896

Cosmetic Chemicals In Fast Food!?

Quote of The Day With Thropay Chiropractic!

Chemical Stew

There are approximately 80,000 chemicals currently in use in the USA. Of these, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has tested only 200 - and out of those they have regulated five. In other words, there are no proscribed laws limiting the use of 79,995 chemicals in our environment.

With the number of autistic children currently skyrocketing as it is, there is probably no one reading this letter who doesn't know someone affected by it. It is our hope that passing on this information to them will be helpful.

There are now at least 10 groups of chemicals that are highly suspected as factors in the autism spectrum:

1. Lead
2. Methyl mercury
3. PCBs
4. Organophosphate pesticides
5. Organochlorine pesticides
6. Endocrine disruptors
7. Automotive exhaust
8. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
9. Brominated flame retardants
10. Perflourinated compounds

Looking up the big words will reveal that most if not all of these are common, everyday toxins in our immediate environment. They are also possible to avoid or reduce, to a greater or lesser degree. And when it comes to autism, every little bit helps! Every parent longs for their child to have the best opportunity for a normal and productive life.

As we know from experience in this office, Nutrition Response Testing does provide significant help for those affected by the autism spectrum. Evaluation will show specifics that need to be addressed in order of priority for that individual's body - and provide you with the tools to do so. Grateful parents find that not only their child's but also their own quality of life is improved as the customized program is followed.

We're here for YOU! Call us at (562) 861-3896. And special thanks to all of you who do share these newsletters with others.

Everything You Need to Know About Vegetable Gardening in One Graphic

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VEGETABLE GARDENING IN ONE GRAPHIC

***The guy who wrote this, Brett James, lives in Liverpool so the planting dates are for that region of England. The dates aren’t the same but all the other info should transfer. If ya want to know the planting dates for the US, go tohttp://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/PHZMWeb/ Enter your zip code and find your growing zone. Then look on the back of the seed packets to find out the dates to plant those particular seeds in your zone. The rest is still of the info in the graphic is still applicable.***

10 Surprising Ways to Use Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is definitely having a moment. From the kitchen to the beauty aisle, the white stuff is being touted as a miracle cure-all. But be honest: Do you know what to do with it? We’ve rounded up some of the most useful—and unusual—uses for coconut oil:

COOKING OIL SUBSTITUTE

Though coconut oil contains close to 90 percent saturated fat, it’s a medium-chain fatty acid, which your body burns quickly. It also acts as a blood sugar stabilizer as well as disease and fungus fighter. Use raw, cold pressed coconut oil for best results.

INSECT REPELLENT

In lieu of dowsing yourself with DEET filled repellent, try mixing coconut oil with peppermint, tea tree, or rosemary essential oils and applying to skin before heading outside. Bet you didn’t know coconut oil could be used for that! Bugs be gone!

DEODORANT

If you’re looking for an alternative to deodorants containing aluminum, try rubbing a small amount of coconut oil into your underarms, it’s just another one of the many uses for coconut oil.

DANDRUFF RELIEF

A little goes a long way when using coconut oil. For fewer flakes, massage one to two tablespoons of oil into your scalp. Wait 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse.

MAKEUP REMOVER

Dampen a washcloth or cotton face pad with warm water, add a dime-sized amount of coconut oil, then wipe your face. The oil and water tag-team to break down the water and oil soluble compounds on your visage. It even takes off waterproof mascara!

TOOTHPASTE

Mix a little coconut oil and baking soda together for a whitening combo. It seems like a weird concept to brush with oil, but the result will leave you with polished, pearly whites. A pretty awesome use for coconut oil!

LIP BALM

Rubbing a tiny amount of coconut oil on your lips will keep them moisturized for a surprisingly long time. Bonus—they’ll smell great too.

COFFEE CREAMER

Looking for away to cut dairy out of your morning coffee routine? Try using coconut oil, it gives coffee a rich, creamy flavor with a hint of tropical aroma. One to two teaspoons of oil mixed into your mug should be plenty.

BUTTER SUBSTITUTE

Uses for coconut oil include but are not limited to: drizzling it on your popcorn, spreading it on your toast, or substituting it in baking recipes. (Using raw, fresh-pressed coconut oil will yield the most flavorful results.)

MOISTURIZER

Coconut oil is said to prevent and visibly reduce stretch marks as well as decrease the appearance of cellulite. Just another one of the many uses for coconut oil!

From the Archives

Today we're going to share with you a letter from 2007. It was written by Dr. Thropay after he had worked with this patient who came 3000+ miles to receive his care. 

"Ken suffered with arachnoiditis for over 35 years.  It dated back to a myelogram he was given preparatory to back surgery that was performed on him in his teens.  The dye that was injected for the myelogram caused chronic inflammation in his spinal cord.

Besides that, the surgery did not relieve him of his pain.  The back pain and leg pains down to his feet became increasingly worse and more debilitating.  Seven years after the surgery, the medical doctors finally admitted that their procedures were to blame.

Fast forward three pain-filled decades...for the past two years before I saw him, he was taking multiple medications for pain and inflammation, including the highest permitted dose of one drug for eight weeks.  He was unable to function actively during those two years - in fact, had recently spent an entire five-week period flat on his back on the floor.

The only prognosis his doctors could give him was that he soon would be in a wheelchair.

My evaluation showed heavy metal toxicity, including mercury, antimony (from the dye), copper, aluminum, and lead.  As the metals were removed from his body, he was able to get off every one of his medications.  The pain continues to diminish, and he is 'up and running,' functioning normally and productively in his chosen field.

This amazing turnaround took place in only five weeks here! 

Specific metal drainage - which is only one of many aspects of Nutrition Response Testing - is frequently the answer to many ailments."

Needless to say, Ken was only too willing to make the necessary dietary changes that would both hasten and extend his remarkable improvement.  We find that this is always the case - those who are fully committed to their customized program experience the highest level of success.

                           *****************

Don't forget about our January drawing!  Lots of people have their eye on the NutriBullet system, and many are hoping for the full-hour massage.  See any practitioner here this month, and your name is entered.  Increase your chances of winning by bringing someone new (3 entries) to experience the wonderful health benefits we offer. 

Write us here anytime, or call us at (562) 861-3896.

How to Help Your Thyroid with a Simple and Natural Oil

Many Americans suffer from symptoms such as cold hands and feet, low body temperature, sensitivity to cold, a feeling of always being chilled, headaches, insomnia, dry skin, puffy eyes, hair loss, brittle nails, joint aches, constipation, mental dullness, fatigue, frequent infections, hoarse voice, ringing in the ears, dizziness, loss of libido, and weight gain, which is sometimes uncontrollable.

Approximately 65 percent of the U.S. population is overweight; 27 percent is clinically obese. Research is pointing to the fact that an underactive thyroid might be the number one cause of weight problems, especially among women.
Because coconut oil is saturated and very stable (unrefined coconut oil has a shelf life of about three to five years at room temperature), the body is not burdened with oxidative stress as it is with the vegetable oils. Coconut oil does not require the enzyme stress that vegetable oils do, preventing T4 to T3 hormone conversion, not only because it is a stable oil, but also because it is processed differently in the body and does not need to be broken down by enzyme dependent processes as do long-chain fatty acids.

Viva Labs Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, 16 Ounce

Also, since the liver is the main place where damage occurs from oxidized and rancid oils that cause cell membrane damage, and since the liver is where much of the conversion of T4 to T3 takes place, eliminating long-chain fatty acids from the diet and replacing them with medium-chain fatty acids found in coconut oil can, in time, help in rebuilding cell membranes and increasing enzyme production that will assist in promoting the conversion of T4 to T3 hormones.

More research in this area is necessary. In the meantime, those switching from polyunsaturated oils to coconut oil are reporting many positive results. For example, Donna has experienced encouraging improvements in her thyroid health. She writes:

“I’VE BEEN ON COCONUT OIL SINCE SEPTEMBER 2002 AND, ALTHOUGH, THAT DOESN’T SEEM LIKE LONG, IT HAS CHANGED MY LIFE AND THE LIVES OF MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS. MY WEIGHT ACTUALLY WENT UP WHEN I STARTED ON COCONUT OIL BUT I FELT SO GREAT! BEING HYPOTHYROID, I WAS ON SYNTHROID AND CYTOMEL AND HAD BEEN FOR YEARS, BUT WITH INCONSISTENT RESULTS AND FEELING WORSE. OTHER CHANGES BESIDES THE ADDITION OF COCONUT OIL WERE THE COMPLETE REMOVAL OF SOY (AND THAT IS A MAJOR CHALLENGE IN ITSELF!), ALL TRANS FATTY ACIDS, NO REFINED SUGAR, AND ORGAN CLEANSES SEASONALLY.

MY THYROID MEDS WERE DISCONTINUED WITH MY DOCTOR’S KNOWLEDGE AS I WAS GETTING TOO ENERGETIC AND HAVING TROUBLE SLEEPING! [IMAGINE], FROM BEING A ‘SLEEPAHOLIC’COUCH POTATO THAT WAS COLD! MY WEIGHT STAYED STEADY UNTIL THE LAST THREE WEEKS AND IT HAS NOW STARTED THE DOWNWARD MOVE. MY GOAL WAS HEALTH AND JUST BELIEVED THE WEIGHT WOULD COME OFF WHEN I FOUND THE RIGHT DIET AND EXERCISE ROUTINE THAT MY LIFE WAS COMFORTABLE WITH. I’VE TRIED REMOVING THE COCONUT OIL BUT MY ENERGY DROPS AND I DON’T FEEL AS GOOD. DONNA”

 

READ How to Help Your Thyroid with Virgin Coconut Oil

Sources:

http://livingtraditionally.com/

http://articles.mercola.com/

This Powerful Fruit can Fight Infections, Heal Wounds Fast, and More!

Papaya is great for theskin and can be used as a facepack to get its benefits. It helps to get rid of acne and it helps to open clogged pores. The fermented flesh of papaya also called as papain helps to dissolve the dead cells, giving fresh and glowing skin as a result.

Papaya is a fruit that is rich in fiber and lowers cholesterol levels. It contains enzymes that help prevent oxidization of cholesterol, which in return helps to prevent heart-attacks.

The antioxidants in papaya help in controlling premature ageing. This quality of the papaya helps you to get a younger look.

The seeds of papaya too possess medicinal properties. They are very good in treatingintestinal worms in the body.

Papaya helps in preventing constipation and aids in digestion. The enzyme papain is a digestive enzyme that helps in natural digestion.

Papaya juice helps in curing infections of the colon by clearing the pus and mucus from it. You need to take it regularly to heal quickly.

Papaya is good to cure the skin infections and wounds that don’t heal quickly.

It is low in calories and high in nutritional values. Hence, it is a good food for those who want to lose some weight.

For pregnant ladies, regular consumption of a small slice of papaya helps to cure nausea and morning sickness.

Papaya contains anti-inflammatory enzymes that help in relieving pain for those who aresuffering from arthritis, edema and osteoporosis, and it also possesses anti-cancerous properties that can help preventing cancer.

Papaya is rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin C that helps in boosting the body’s immunity and hence is very good for those who are suffering from fever, cold or flu.

Shampoos that contain papaya are very good to control dandruff.

Raw papaya helps in controlling the menstrual irregularities in women. Papaya helps to ease menstrual cramps and helps in promoting regular flow of menstruation.

Here were some good reasons to eat papaya at least once in a week. Papaya can be taken with fruit salads, or in other cuisines or can be applied directly on the skin, it is bound to show some positive results and benefit your health.

Source:

http://www.healthdigezt.com/

Healthy Holiday Dishes, Part 4

Navigating through the holidays can be a challenge for someone committed to eating healthfully, but it is very do-able. While everyone else is gorging on harmful food products, it's easy to whip up delicious treats for your family using only healthful ingredients. Try this Blueberry Coffee Cake, for example. Great for a brunch or your holiday potluck table, or just anytime!

1 1/2 cups organic whole barley flour (for gluten-free, use buckwheat or brown rice flour - this may sacrifice some texture, but it will still be good)

1 tbsp. non-aluminum baking powder

1 tsp. cinnamon

1/2 tsp. sea salt

1 1/2 cups organic blueberries (frozen or fresh)

1 free range egg

1/2 cup raw milk or coconut milk

1/4 cup raw honey

1/4 cup butter, melted

TOPPING:

1/4 cup butter, melted

1/3 cup raw honey

1 tbsp. flour

1/2 cup chopped organic walnuts

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir in blueberries.

In a small bowl, beat egg, honey, milk, and butter. Add to dry ingredients and stir gently until mixed. Spread in a greased 7 x 11 glass baking pan.

Combine all topping ingredients and distribute evenly over batter in pan. Bake at 400 degrees for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is light golden brown. Serve warm or at room temperature.

*******************

Think of the many benefits of saturated fat (Omega-3s). This list is courtesy of Dr. Russell Blaylock, MD:

- prevent depression

- treat bipolar disorder

- prevent preeclampsia (abrupt hypertension during pregnancy)

- reduce premature births

- protect baby's brain

- modulate anger, anxiety, fear

- improve immunity

- counteract autoimmune diseases

- prevent and treat cancer

- protect the brain

- fight cardiovascular disease

- prevent and treat arrhythmia

- combat stroke

In other words, never hesitate over butter, red meat,* or whole raw dairy products! *red meat should be from animals that are not factory-farmed, but have a natural life - without antibiotics or pesticided foods

Our popular Holiday Special promo is still available through December. Buy 4 of our gift cards @ $25 each, and receive the 5th one free. Why not buy 4 gift cards for those on your list, and treat yourself with the free one?!

Call us anytime at (562) 861-3896

Top 10 Natural Remedies for Swollen Ankles, Legs and Feet

Several years ago I was on a ferry between two Thai islands and got chatting to a girl sitting next to me. She complained of swollen legs and ankles, and when I looked at her more closely, I did notice her puffy feet. It always makes me worried to see someone’s leg swell. I think of all the serious conditions that could be connected with this symptom, including problems with the heart and kidneys, or a blood clot.

Indeed, if your lower limbs become swollen and you have other ominous signs to go with it – such as shortness of breath, fever, bluish skin (cyanosis) and chest pain – head for the emergency department immediately. Also, if one leg looks swollen, while the other one appears normal, see a doctor, as this unevenness could be a sign of deep venous thrombosis. Some prescription medication too can cause swelling, such as birth control pills, anti-depressants and medication for high blood pressure.

In the case of my fellow passenger, the condition was far from dangerous – it was just slightly uncomfortable for her. She happened to spend too much time sitting on trains and buses, and was also adapting to the humid tropical climate, so was feeling slightly dehydrated. She happily continued with her travels and was fine in a few days time.

Every case of swelling needs to be considered in its context to make sure you’re not missing a potentially serious condition. You need to be able to distinguish between harmless swelling and edema. In the case of edema, if you press on the puffy area, it stays pitted for a few seconds after. This could be a sign of heart, liver or kidney problems.

Very often leg swelling can be prevented by some simple measures and DIY techniques. Here are some examples you can follow to prevent the swelling, or to return to your previous swelling-free self:

1. Exercise! Exercising stimulates blood circulation and prevents the blood from pooling in your lower extremities. If you’re suffering from painful or inflamed legs, swimming can be the perfect solution. When you float, the impact is taken off your feet, which eases the discomfort. So find a pool, or take a dip in a nearby sea or lake. If you do yoga, go for the postures that make you lift your feet above the head. This is called an inversion and has many health benefits, including improved immunity and digestion. So start with your headstand as soon as you notice your feet swelling… and experience the thrill of it.

2. Elevate your legs. If you’re not quite ready for the headstand yet, try elevating your legs by putting them on a higher surface so that they are above the heart. Do that for 30 minutes, three times a day, and observe the difference. When you’re in bed, put a pillow under your ankles. This will help drain the excess fluid, so it can then get absorbed in the body, or is eliminated with urine.

3. If you sit for long periods of time, get up and walk around a bit. When your boss asks you what you are up to, explain that you are just trying to prevent your feet from swelling. Walking for 10 minutes, three times a day, should be enough to keep your tootsies healthy and happy.

4. When you travel, consider wearing compression socks. I know that they can be difficult to put on, but they do serve their purpose. They help the blood vessels with their elasticity, so that the blood doesn’t pool in your legs. Plus, they prevent varicose veins. Consider wearing them on long-haul flights and on long bus and train journeys. My travelling friend would certainly benefit from wearing them. Also, support/compression socks or stockings can be good for you if you’re already suffering from leg inflammation.

5. Eat healthy and avoid excess salt. A bit of salt is good for you, and is in fact needed for the body to function well. But too much salt can cause water retention and should be avoided. Caffeine too is a known culprit. So go easy on the salt and try to bring your coffee intake to a minimum. If you are overweight, consider losing some weight, so you reduce the pressure that is put on your muscles, joints and bones. Every little helps.

6. Stop smoking! Smoking is one of the top 10 habits to stop right now if you want to be healthy. I know, easier said than done. But think of all the rewards that come when you stop smoking. Having your feet less swollen is just one of them. Also, smoking is related to many (more serious) underlying conditions that can cause lower limb swelling.

7. Drink plenty of water. We are all guilty of often not drinking enough fluids. By drinking water throughout the day, we hydrate our tissues and detox the body. Sodium and caffeine, which contribute to feet inflammation, get diluted if we water ourselves sufficiently. Eight to ten glasses a day should be the norm. Drink more if you had some alcohol. So make sure you carry that water bottle with you. For added antioxidant value, squeeze some lime or lemon in or prepare your own flavored water.

8. Massage the painful area. Or even better, make someone else do it for you. Massaging your feet is extremely relaxing and improves your blood circulation. Use gentle but firm motions, and always go in the direction of the heart.

9. Soak your feet in Epsom salt and feel the bliss. I’ve written in the past about the great uses for Epsom salt, and I’m sure your legs and feet will appreciate the attention. If you feel like indulging yourself completely, add a few cups of sea salt to your bathwater and soak your whole body. Essential oils can help alleviate pain and discomfort too. Some popular choices are peppermint, eucalyptus, lemon and lavender that are all known to have anti-inflammatory properties.

10. Take magnesium supplements. Often feet inflammation, which can result in painful swelling, is connected to magnesium deficiency. A dose of 350 mg a day can make a difference, but always talk to your doctor before taking any supplement.

Keep your legs healthy and pain-free. Remember how well they’ve been serving you over the years, and return the favor!

Source:

http://www.healthyandnaturalworld.com/

Recipe time

Need a change for your lunch menu? Here's a quick and easy autumn soup recipe that will warm you up on a cool day. It's adapted from a Taste of Home recipe called Southwestern Bean Soup.

1 tbsp. olive oil

1 tbsp. butter

3/4 cup diced organic onion

3/4 cup chopped organic celery

1/8 tsp. garlic powder

1 can of Trader Joe's salsa-style organic re-fried beans

1/4 cup of organic salsa or picante sauce

2 cups organic chicken broth

1 tsp. liquid hickory smoke

Garnishes: shredded raw milk cheese, either cheddar or pepper Jack, according to your tastes; and 1 tbsp. chopped parsley or cilantro

In a large saucepan, saute onion and celery in olive oil and butter. Sprinkle with the garlic powder; cover and simmer for 10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.

Add the beans, salsa, and broth. Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer the soup for 5-10 minutes. Stir in the liquid hickory smoke. Serve with chopped parsley and shredded cheese. If desired, serve with a few organic corn chips. Hot pepper sauce can be added to the soup if you want lots of kick! Makes 4 servings.

We always suggest that you take hot items to work in a well-insulated container, and avoid microwaving. So much nutritive value is lost in the microwave.

This soup is wonderful as a family meal, too. Just double or even triple the recipe, and serve with a big vegetable salad.

Keep safe and healthy this weekend! And remember that there are several good holiday recipes in our "Healthful Cooking Made Simple" cookbook. These sell for $20 at the front desk.

Call us anytime at (562) 861-3896

How to cut food costs

Budget getting out of control? Take a look at these ideas for saving money on groceries, while at the same time helping your health.

1. Learn to cook. It's easy! Healthful meals are very basic and simple to prepare, with a few general principles to guide you. And there's lots of online help these days, with step-by-step recipes, tips, and more.

2. Take fewer trips to the grocery store. We all do "impulse buying" at the market, spending an average of $10 extra per trip. So if you shop once per week, instead of three times, that will save about $20 per week right there - or $80+ per month.

3. Break up the restaurant routine. Go out for dinner once a week, instead of three times. If your meals average $20 per time, you will save $160 per month.

4. Pack your own lunch for work. By spending about $3 per lunch instead of the $6 average that "buying out" costs, you will save at least $60 per month.

5. Buy healthful foods cheaper.

- We always recommend the local farmers' market for organic or "no-chemicals" produce. Ask questions about the farming practices, and choose your vendors carefully.

- Vitamin City in north Long Beach usually has lower prices than other health food stores or markets.

- When you can, buy in bulk any items that you will totally use up.

6. Make leftovers count. Most Americans waste about 14% of their food purchases of meat, fruit, vegetables, and grain products. That alone adds up to an average of at least $600 per year per family! Tips to avoid this:

- Make sure to purchase only what you will use

- Refrigerate your leftovers as soon as they are lukewarm, and use them within couple of days as a casserole or hash (They will normally keep well for up to a week, but it's easy to forget about them!) Re-heat gently.

- Don't get hung up on "use by" dates. Those are placed by the food producers, and they do a great job of guaranteeing repeat business! Most canned or packaged foods are fine after those dates.

7. Re-visit the snack issue. Making your own snacks, drinking water more often, and cutting down on the number of times you "munch" every day will all give you mega-savings!

Saving money AND eating more healthfully - it's a win-win situation!

We'd love to know your favorite money-saving tips. Write us back to share your suggestions, or call us at (562) 861-3896.

How to handle...a​luminum

One of the three most common elements on earth, aluminum is chosen and extensively used by manufacturers for its ready availability plus its stability and ease to work with. The resulting numerous products are ever so convenient and seem almost to be necessities in this culture of ours!

The minus side is that aluminum has a bad habit of accumulating within the body - especially in certain areas. Although one of two exposures would not be harmful, unfortunately most of us absorb some every day - and the more frequently we ingest it, the more potential damage we incur.

- Aluminum deposits are often made in the bones - a causative factor in osteoporosis

- The brain is another favorite place - contributing to Alzheimer's, dementia, Parkinson's and other auto-immune conditions

- Aluminum can accumulate in breast tissue - associated with cancer there

We absorb aluminum from a multitude of sources. Here is a partial list, and I'll follow each item with proactive alternative suggestions for you in italics.

- anti-perspirants and sunscreens [Use a non-aluminum deodorant such as Lavilin. Read the labels on sunscreens and choose accordingly OR better yet, get some genuine benefit from the sun and just take Cataplex F perles regularly all summer to prevent burning]

- beverage cans [Drink only spring water or homemade juices]

- cooking utensils, whether at home or in restaurants [Use high-quality stainless steel pots and pans, and give your business to restaurants who do the same]

- foil in food preparation and storage [Use glass baking dishes, covered with another pan instead of foil in the oven. Bake potatoes in their skins smeared with olive oil. Avoid foil-baked potatoes or foil-wrapped take-out food. Ask for paper wrapping or a styro container with a paper lining between the food and the container. Never cook or store food in foil]

- vaccines - an aluminum compound is added to "make it work" [Avoid all flu vaccines, and take a hard look at the vaccination idea for infants. Focus instead on actively supporting your and your family's immune systems]

The old saying goes, "Birds of a feather flock together," and this is true of aluminum. It loves to hang out with its best buddy mercury, along with other heavy metals. These are often found in the same areas as other immune challenges, such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. This is bad news for our bodies!

Our famous "two-pronged approach" in this clinic addresses the aluminum problem in two ways:

1) Carefully and strategically help your body drain out the offender(s)

2) Teach you how to stop putting it in, to give your body opportunity for healing and real wellness

We believe both factors are necessary to provide a complete preventive approach to handling aluminum.

Our October promo is proving to be popular! Be sure to call soon to schedule your appointment with Elvira for the "treat" - 15 extra minutes on a full-hour massage!

(562) 861-3896

CALLING FOR CALCIUM

In the past few years, we've been hearing a lot about calcium and the important role it plays in the human diet.   Sometimes, though, calcium is demonized because of negative symptoms that can appear in those who take calcium supplements. So, where is the truth in this seeming paradox?    It's pretty simple, actually.  What our bodies require is calcium in a form that it can USE to meet its many demands for this essential mineral.  That usable form is called "calcium bicarbonate."  The "bi" part of the word helps us remember that this calcium is already bioavailable for the body's use. On the other hand, there are plenty of calcium supplements out there that are in the "calcium carbonate" form.  This means the calcium they contain is NOT readily available for the body.  In fact, it takes twelve biochemical steps for the body to break it down, and by that time, only a small portion of the calcium is useful. Knowing that contrast, you can understand why there is this dichotomy about calcium supplements out there.  Calcium carbonate supplements are often made from coral or chalky rocks.  Who would  choose to chew on coral or a chunk of rock, even if we had the teeth for it? These are not foods, and therefore not good sources of calcium.  Much of the calcium from these supplements ends up either excreted in the urine or deposited in various ways.  Arterial plaque build-up, kidney stones, cataracts, bone spurs - these all consist of calcium that has not been utilized by the body.  Calcium Lactate, by contrast, is in calcium bicarbonate form, made from fermented vegetables (actual foods!).  The fermentation process acts as a type of pre-digestion, so the calcium is readily usable by the body - in a one-step process.  This means that the much lower number of milligrams per tablet in Calcium Lactate will do a better job than the high-mg. 12-step calcium carbonate supplements. Growing pains, muscle cramps (and angina, because the heart is a muscle), hyperactivity, osteoporosis, and low immunity all point to calcium deficiency.   And, as you know, the typical western diet does not supply nearly enough of it.  The result is that most of us require calcium supplements in order to re-stock the body with what it has been missing for years.  Of course, the other half of the equation is to eat a NON-typical diet - one that contains plenty of usable calcium.  Great dietary sources include raw milk (not pasteurized) and raw cheese, almonds and Brazil nuts, sesame and flax seeds, kale, broccoli, spinach and other leafy greens. Standard Process has been making Calcium Lactate supplements for 65+ years.  They are one of our most popular products, and very reasonably priced.   Call us anytime so we can have your supply ready for you.  (562)861-3896

Promoting Healthy Living At Thropay Chiropractic!

The Dismal of 'Bismol...​and other antacids

Acid indigestion is one of the most common complaints in America. Because it is often blamed on "too much stomach acid," millions of antacids are swallowed every day.  In fact, many of those are actually doctors' prescriptions!  The rest are bought over the counter for symptomatic relief.

Funny - with all these remedies, acid digestion never really goes away.  That's because the REAL problem is not too much but too little stomach acid!  

Does that sound paradoxical to you?

Here's what happens. The human stomach is designed to produce acid in response to food that enters it. This acid in turn becomes pepsin, an enzyme which is necessary to digest proteins, carbs, and fats.  When this digestive process takes place in the stomach, the food mass is then passed into the small intestine in a timely manner - under normal conditions.

BUT - due to the enzyme-deficient diet that is constantly consumed by most people. stomach acid often becomes deficient. Food that lacks the necessary nutrients causes a negative type of chain reaction:

1) Stomach acid production is not stimulated as it would be if corresponding enzymes were in the food 

2) Proteins, carbs, and fats therefore cannot be properly digested in the stomach

3) The food mass sits in the stomach, waiting for the problem to be corrected and the process completed, instead of passing through to the intestines

4) The food then begins to ferment (like rotting), which creates acidic gasses in the stomach

5) These gasses rise and take the reverse route back into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn and acid reflux.

The medical treatment for this situation is antacids - that is, "Let's suppress the acid production in your stomach so these gasses are not formed - voila, no heartburn!" However, your stomach has been programmed to do its job, and that job is to maintain a specific pH balance.   SO...taking the antacid stimulates the stomach to produce MORE acid to correct the pH imbalance..

                    ...and the cycle simply repeats itself, getting more and more difficult to live with as symptoms worsen.

Additionally, if food is not digested, the nutrients in it are not absorbed or utilized.  When nutrients are not absorbed, the body is deprived of the necessary building blocks for good health.  Any number of disease conditions will result from this domino effect  These will eventually get bad enough to be "diagnosed"...and treated with toxic medications that often bring a slew of other problems. 

Does it make any sense to fight against the body and make things worse - much worse - by taking anticids?  

The REAL problem is relatively uncomplicated, and it's so easy to correct!

Take a few simple steps to start restoring your stomach to its normal functioning capability, and you can kiss "Aunt Acid" goodbye!

a) Be evaluated by Susana for digestive support products such as Zypan or Enzycore from Standard Process.  These provide natural enzymes that stimulate normal acid production and quickly smooth out digestive problems.

b) Avoid processed, refined food products - particularly anything containing sugar or flour.  These have had the nutrients and enzymes removed from them to increase their shelf life.

c) Eat only whole, real foods that contain their full complement of nutrients.

You will wonder how you ever lived before!

Have a wholesome, healthy weekend, everyone.

Check out our website at athropay4health.com, or call us at (562) 861-3896

...and here's another happy one!

"Before I came here, I had numerous sinus infections.  I could hardly go a whole month without having to take a course of antibiotics.

Since starting my customized Nutrition Response Testing program nearly 4 months ago, I haven't had ANY sinus infections. I am so grateful to not need any antibiotics in all this time.  Thanks!"   M.D.

And thank YOU, M.D., for sharing this wonderful news with all of us!

Dr. Isaac Jennings once said, "There is no healing force outside of the human body."  

That statement sums up our philosophy at Thropay Health Center.  Sometimes we say, "Our bodies are pre-programmed to self-heal."  We have profound respect for the body's amazing central command center. Healing and maintaining optimal health is one of the brain's major functions.

Everything we do here is designed to work with this principle of the body being its own healing factory.  As Dr. Royal Lee put it, "[our] basic...philosophy...is to cooperate with nature."  That is why he believed so strongly in chiropractic as a means of keeping the neuro-pathways clear for the transmission of brain messages.  And that is why he spent much of his life growing organic foods and making them into concentrated whole-food supplements.  His farm and supplements are called Standard Process. 

It is thanks to Dr. Lee's meticulous research that we have the principles and tools for diet and health that we now use in Nutrition Response Testing.  We believe that given the necessary conditions, the body will produce its own cure.  

For those who follow their programs consistently, no one can argue with the results!

Please call us anytime at (562) 861-3896, or email us at this address.  See you soon!