Sunshine or Sunscreen?

There's a widespread notion that we must use lotion! But is it correct?

Apparently not! In fact, our constant vigilance against exposing our skin to natural sunlight has resulted, over time, in a Vitamin D deficiency of epidemic proportions. For adults, the estimate is at 50%, and for children, up to 70%.

Here's the reason: "Vitamin D" is actually a steroid hormone that our bodies need and manufacture - but there are only two sources of it:

1) sunshine
2) supplements

That's it! We cannot obtain this vital nutrient from food. We can and do make it by spending a few minutes each day in sunlight. Blocking that process with chemicals can be very counterproductive.

"But what about skin cancer?" say the horrified objectors. Good point. If, due to your internal body climate, skin cancer is a clear danger for you, extra precaution must be taken. For most of us, however, there are a few commonsense steps we can follow to maximize our benefit from this most essential nutrient.

Vitamin D (remember, it's a hormone) controls the gene function that stimulates your immune system to attack and destroy viruses and bacteria. It is needed, therefore, to fight infections like the flu and colds. Higher levels of D are associated with lower incidence of breast, colon, ovarian, and prostate cancers, as well as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Those who struggle with fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue often feel tired and achy. This is a classic symptom of Vitamin D deficiency osteomalacia. Sunshine and a good calcium supplement are indicated.

Natural sunshine can best be utilized to make Vitamin D between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 pm. The guidelines are pretty simple:

1) Protect your face with a wide-brimmed hat - our face is the most sensitive area to aging (which no one wants to happen, right?)

2) Expose arms, legs, back, to a gentle sunbathe, even while walking. Keep track of the time - never "fry" your skin. In extreme heat, keep it very brief.

In many regions, winter climate prohibits spending time in the sun for many months of the year. (We're so lucky in California!) A good Vitamin D supplement will be your substitute, and it should include Vitamin K2 and calcium for the best balance and absorption.

For Vitamin D deficiency, your body may at first require both sources - the sunlight and an appropriate supplement. At Thropay Health Center, we offer an excellent product by Systemic Formulas, in either liquid or capsule form.

Call and speak to Susana if you have questions about this subject. Our number is (562) 928-5883.

WHY ORGANIC?

WHY ORGANIC?

Is eating organic produce that important? Why should supplements be made from organically-grown foods? There are three basic answers which cover both of these commonly-asked questions:

1. Sustainable organic farming is indisputably best for the earth. Valuable resources in the soil and atmosphere are retained, utilized, and replaced by the cycles of natural farming, as opposed to indus trial farming. With organic farming, no toxic chemical pesticides are poured into our water sources or sprayed into the air, to be ingested by animals and humans, creating serious health issues.

2. The nutritional content of organically grown foods is considerably higher than that of industrialized farm products. (Please see the study results from Rutgers University, quoted in “Why Standard Process Farms Organically…”) Superior nutrition promotes superior health. There’s so much more “bang for your buck”!

3. Concentrated whole organic foods and supplements do not deposit toxic residues in the bodies of those who eat them. Industrialized farm products add these negatives which virtually cancel out the health benefits that could come from naturally-raised foods.

No-grain Zucchini Bread

With zucchini "cropping" up abundantly these days, we steam it, stir-fry it, and make soup with it - and then we look for creative ways to use the extra portions of this healthful vegetable.

Here's a simple and tasty gluten-free recipe that will please anyone's palate. Serve it to your children with an omelet for brunch, or use it for a "dessert-y" way to get another vegetable into them!

This makes a medium-sized loaf, and the recipe can be doubled.

1 cup shredded organic zucchini
1 ripe organic banana, mashed
4 free-range eggs
2-3 tbsp. raw honey
1 tbsp. coconut oil
1/2 cup organic coconut flour (Trader Joe's carries it)
3/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. sea salt
2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 cup chopped raw walnuts (optional)

Place the shredded zucchini in a mesh-type strainer and let stand for 5 minutes.

Heat oven to 350.degrees. Grease a 7 1/2 by 4 1/2 inch loaf pan with coconut oil or plenty of butter.

In a large bowl, mix the eggs, honey, oil, and mashed banana together.

Gently press the zucchini against the strainer to drain out the liquid. Add it, plus all the dry ingredients, to the bowl. Stir all together until smooth. Add nuts if preferred.

Pour batter into the greased pan and bake for 45-50 minutes. Check with a toothpick inserted all the way to the bottom/center of the loaf. If it comes out clean, the job is done! Otherwise, bake a few minutes longer.

Cool before removing from pan. May be served warm or cold. Keep leftovers refrigerated.in a sealed container.

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Just a couple of days left until Father's Day! Be sure to stop by to pick up a gift card for Dad. Many guys love Elvira's robust therapeutic massages, or you can choose our nutritional or chiropractic services.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY to all dads, grandfathers, uncles, friends!

Thropay Health Center
11425 Paramount Blvd.
Downey, CA 90241
(562) 861-3896

An easy way to boost your health

Most people think of massage as a luxury, a great way to pamper yourself or someone you love. This is true, of course. But did you know that a regular program of therapeutic massage is known to bring many health benefits? Put that with the luxury of pampering yourself, and you've got a winner!

These health benefits can include the following:

- Enhanced immunity

- Reduced depression and anxiety

- Increased benefit from athletic work-outs

- Relief of migraine pain and frequency

- Improved sleep quality

- Improved mobility, and less pain in arthritis sufferers

- Brightening complexion and hair

- Reduced PMS symptoms

- Enhanced alertness

- Better concentration

Many of our patients wisely choose to have a weekly or monthly massage from Elvira, our massage therapist extraordinaire. Elvira's talented hands, along with her training, experience, and dedication all combine to consistently bring her rave reviews. We are delighted that she is part of our team!

Our massage prices are amazingly affordable. Only $40 for a one-hour massage, or $25 for a half hour. This is one of the most reasonable ways to improve your health and help you manage your stress load. Gift cards are available in any denomination.

Call us for a convenient appointment at (562) 861-3896.

"Sweets to the sweet!"

Q. What types of sweeteners do you recommend?

A. You have no doubt heard that many scientists and professionals say, "Sugar is sugar; it doesn't matter where it comes from, it has the same effect."  We respectfully disagree, because we believe the body is smarter than that.  Our clinical experience shows that the human body greatly differentiates between natural and artificial or over-processed products.  

Therefore, as with all foods that make up a health-promoting diet, it comes down to one basic question to ask ourselves:  Is this sweetener a truly natural, unrefined product that retains the original minerals, vitamins, fiber, and phytonutrients? 

Here is a simple YES and NO list to make it easy for you.  (Of course, you are welcome to research these products if you have the time and inclination :)  And the one caveat, maybe the one "element of truth" in the above popular quotation, is that sweet foods should always be eaten in limited amounts.

YES

- raw, unfiltered honey produced in spring or summer from flower nectar. This is our Number One choice.  Unfortunately, some of the honey production in America is corrupted in the off-season months by feeding bees processed sugar and/or keeping light on the hives 24 hours.  Ask questions!

- dates

- organic fruit 

- natural stevia plant you grow yourself

NO

- HFCS (high fructose corn syrup) - found everywhere!

- Agave nectar = not even "raw, organic" - this is a highly processed product

- Chicory syrup - a "cover" for agave syrup

- Stevia powder 

- evaporated cane juice

Next week, we'll talk about the various sugars that are advertised as better choices than refined white sugar.

And, as always, your comments and questions are welcome!

Call us at (562) 861-3896

Simple Salads for Spring

When there's no time to grocery shop, it's your chance to get creative. A "throw-together" salad can be attractive as well as delicious and nutritious. Here's a simple recipe that can be varied as to ingredients or amounts, according to whatever you have in the refrigerator.

4 cups organic broccoli florets (or cauliflower, or both)
1 cup of cubed raw milk cheese - cheddar, Swiss, Gruyere - or 1/2 cup raw milk blue cheese, crumbled
1-2 red organic apples, washed and chopped but not peeled
1/2 cup organic red onion, sliced thinly and quartered
2/3 cup raw pecan pieces - or any nuts or seeds you have on hand
Add 1/2 cup chopped celery, if desired

Combine in a large bowl. Drizzle with the following vinaigrette, and toss until coated.

2 tbsp. organic red wine vinegar
1 tbsp. organic lemon juice
1/4 cup olive oil
1 clove organic garlic, minced
dash of cayenne
1 tsp. organic Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp. sea salt
1/2 tsp. fennel seeds - optional

Place all vinaigrette ingredients in a small jar and shake well before tossing with salad.

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Kitchen Q&A

Q. What about Orgreenic fry pans? Are they a healthful choice for cooking?

A. They test very well here, and are hands-down far superior to "regular" non-stick pans (which are a potential source of plastic and/or aluminum particles).

We have found that they are wonderful for re-heating food, sauteing veggies, or cooking omelets or potatoes - always no higher than low-medium heat. I have heard one complaint about cooking raw meat - that it stuck very badly and the pan was miserable to clean. If any of you have input on this, please share it. :)

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A last reminder about our special offer on the 21-day Purification Program Kit from Standard Process! The 15% off will apply through March 31st. Call us to order your kit(s) at (562-861-3896.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

We fortunate ones in southern California have access year round to locally grown vegetables and fruits - including organic or chemical-free produce. This is a great blessing that many people across the country would envy!

Zucchini is usually considered a summer squash, but it has been available at our farmers' market for many weeks. Here is a recipe for a tasty, nutritious side dish that you can have on the table in just a few minutes. It's a "keeper" for our family on every level!

LIME THYME ZUCCHINI

5 small organic zucchini (or enough to make 3 cups sliced)
3 tbsp. butter
2 cloves organic garlic, sliced very thin
grated zest of two organic limes (or one lemon)
1/2 tsp. thyme
sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste
2 tbsp. raw milk grated Parmesan cheese
juice of the limes or lemon - about 2-3 tbsp.

In a large frying pan, melt the butter. Cook the garlic in the butter until fragrant, Meanwhile, wash zucchini, remove stem ends, and slice into 1/4 inch coins. Add to pan along with zest, thyme, salt and pepper.

Sauté at medium heat briefly, then cover and allow to cook at low-medium for 3-4 minutes. Turn the coins over, cover and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until tender. Remove from heat and toss with lime juice and Parmesan. Serve hot. Serves 4-6

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Treat Mom to a therapeutic massage in May! For every full-hour massage you schedule in May, we will add 15 minutes FREE. That's a 25% bonus! This is not limited to moms - why not do it for yourself or someone else?

Gift cards are available at all times. Call us at (562) 861-3896.

Simple Salads for Spring

When there's no time to grocery shop, it's your chance to get creative. A "throw-together" salad can be attractive as well as delicious and nutritious. Here's a simple recipe that can be varied as to ingredients or amounts, according to whatever you have in the refrigerator.

4 cups organic broccoli florets (or cauliflower, or both)
1 cup of cubed raw milk cheese - cheddar, Swiss, Gruyere - or 1/2 cup raw milk blue cheese, crumbled
1-2 red organic apples, washed and chopped but not peeled
1/2 cup organic red onion, sliced thinly and quartered
2/3 cup raw pecan pieces - or any nuts or seeds you have on hand
Add 1/2 cup chopped celery, if desired

Combine in a large bowl. Drizzle with the following vinaigrette, and toss until coated.

2 tbsp. organic red wine vinegar
1 tbsp. organic lemon juice
1/4 cup olive oil
1 clove organic garlic, minced
dash of cayenne
1 tsp. organic Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp. sea salt
1/2 tsp. fennel seeds - optional

Place all vinaigrette ingredients in a small jar and shake well before tossing with salad.

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

Kitchen Q&A

Q. What about Orgreenic fry pans? Are they a healthful choice for cooking?

A. They test very well here, and are hands-down far superior to "regular" non-stick pans (which are a potential source of plastic and/or aluminum particles).

We have found that they are wonderful for re-heating food, sauteing veggies, or cooking omelets or potatoes - always no higher than low-medium heat. I have heard one complaint about cooking raw meat - that it stuck very badly and the pan was miserable to clean. If any of you have input on this, please share it. :)

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A last reminder about our special offer on the 21-day Purification Program Kit from Standard Process! The 15% off will apply through March 31st. Call us to order your kit(s) at (562-861-3896.

Ready to spring clean?

We're repeating our March promo from last year - our amazing Standard Process 21-day Purification Program at a 15% discount off the kit price!

In case you are wondering about the benefits of this purifying program, here are a few things that will happen if you follow the instructions diligently. You will:

- manage your weight. This is the best program we know of that takes off unnecessary pounds while improving your health and bringing a glow to your face.

- support and enhance the performance of your "toxic elimination team" (liver, kidneys, small and large intestines) to gently but thoroughly remove the many toxins that accumulate in your body over time. Remember, there are about 80,000 chemicals registered for use in the U.S. Hundreds of these are present in our bodies, according to the CDC.

- kick-start yourself to a better lifestyle for your health. This program helps eliminate and change the harmful food cravings we can develop. Your taste buds will come alive, and you will find yourself enjoying foods you previously disliked - such as vegetables! This makes "eating right" so much easier as a way of life.

If you have already done the 21-day Purification Program in the past, you will relate to what I'm saying. And it's a great maintenance tool that should be repeated at least once per year.

Occasionally, someone's body is SO toxic that they can't handle the Purification Program before making some preliminary changes. We strongly recommend that everyone come to Susana for evaluation to make sure you are ready to start, before beginning the program.

We're here as your cheerleading team! Most of us here have done this program ourselves, and we all highly recommend it. Perhaps you know someone else who would be interested. Everyone will get the discount, as long as the purchase is made during March.

Give us a call right away to reserve your kit(s) at (562) 861-3896. And happy spring cleaning! Your body will thank you!

Top 10 Effective Remedies for Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs or pockets that develop within or on the surface of one or both of a woman’s ovaries. Most women will develop at least one cyst at some point in their lives.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most premenopausal women have them at one or more times in their lives, while up to 14.8 percent of women have them after menopause.

Most ovarian cysts are considered functional, meaning that they occur normally during the menstrual cycle and are not a part of a disease process.
They are usually benign and appear without any apparent reason. Pathological cysts, on the other hand, can either be benign or cancerous.

Often people are not aware of ovarian cysts as they typically do not cause any problems. However, in some cases they can cause symptoms like abdominal bloating, pain during bowel movements, menstrual irregularities, pelvic pain before or during the menstrual cycle, pain during sex, pain in the lower back or thighs, pressure in the rectum or bladder, nausea, and vomiting. Certain types of ovarian cysts can also cause decreased fertility.

In many cases, ovarian cysts disappear on their own within a few months. However, if they cause discomfort, there are many natural remedies that can help relieve symptoms and shrink the size of the cysts.

Here are the top 10 home remedies for ovarian cysts. Also, do consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

1. HEAT

Heat is said to be quite effective in reducing muscle cramps or pain in the abdomen due to ovarian cysts.

1. Put a heating pad or hot water bottle on your abdomen and lower pelvic area.
2. Do this for at least 15 minutes.
3. Follow this remedy whenever you experience pain in the abdomen for quick relief.

2. CASTOR OIL PACK

Castor oil packs are an age-old remedy for ovarian cysts. Castor oil clears the body of excess tissues and toxins. It also stimulates the lymphatic and circulatory systems, which helps reduce and dissolve ovarian cysts.

1. Fold a large flannel cloth to make it two or three layers thick. Make sure the folded cloth is large enough to cover your entire abdomen.
2. Drizzle about two tablespoons of castor oil on the cloth. Fold the cloth in half to saturate and then unfold it.
3. Lay down with an old towel under you and put the flannel cloth on your abdomen.
4. Cover the castor oil cloth with plastic and then with an old towel.
5. Place a hot water bottle over the towel and then cover yourself in a warm blanket.
6. Leave the castor oil pack on for at least 30 minutes and then remove it.
7. Repeat the process about three times a week for three months.

To remove oil from the skin after using the castor oil pack, you can wash the treated area with a solution of three tablespoons of baking soda mixed in one quart (four cups) of water.

Note: Do not use castor oil packs during menstruation. If you are trying to conceive then do not use this remedy after ovulation.

3. EPSOM SALT BATH

An Epsom salt bath will also greatly help reduce pain and other symptoms associated with ovarian cysts. The high magnesium sulfate content in Epsom salt works as a muscle relaxant that in turn eases pain.

1. Add one cup of Epsom salt to your bath tub filled with warm water.
2. Add five to 10 drops of essential oils like lavender, rose or jasmine.
3. Stir for a few minutes so that the salt dissolves.
4. Soak your lower body in this water for 20 to 30 minutes.
5. Follow this remedy once daily.

4. CHAMOMILE TEA

Herbal tea like chamomile tea is also considered a good remedy for treating ovarian cysts and the associated pain and discomfort. The gentle sedative effect of chamomile tea will reduce pain and help you to relax. Also, the warm nature of this tea will also help regulate irregular periods by stimulating blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus.

1. Mix two teaspoons of dried chamomile in a cup of hot water.
2. Cover and steep for five minutes.
3. Strain, add one teaspoon of honey and drink the tea.
4. You can drink two to three cups of chamomile tea daily until you get rid of the problem.

5. APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

Apple cider vinegar can help shrink and dissolve ovarian cysts caused by potassium deficiency. It is high in potassium and recommended by many health experts.

1. Add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to a glass of warm water.
2. Mix in one tablespoon of black strap molasses.
3. Drink one or two glasses of this solution daily.
4. Follow this remedy until the cysts disappear completely.

This remedy will also help with the symptoms of excessive menstrual bleeding as well as bloating and cramping throughout periods.

6. BEETROOT

Beetroot contains a compound known as betacyanin that boosts the liver’s ability to clear toxins out of your system. Plus, the alkaline nature of beetroot helps balance the acidity in your body. This in turn reduces the severity of many symptoms of ovarian cysts.

1. Mix one-half cup of freshly extracted beetroot juice with one tablespoon each of aloe vera gel and blackstrap molasses.
2. Drink this once daily before eating your breakfast.
3. Follow this remedy daily until your symptoms have reduced.

7. GINGER JUICE

Ginger is a strong anti-inflammatory herb that reduces inflammation and relieves pain. Also, ginger increases heat in the body and induces menstruation.

• Blend a two-inch piece of ginger, two stalks of celery, half a glass of apple juice and three-fourths of a pineapple in a juicer. Drink this juice once daily until the cysts are gone.
• Also, you can drink two to three cups of ginger tea daily.

8. FLAXSEED

 

Flaxseed helps balance the proportion of estrogen to progesterone in your body. This will help reduce the cysts. Plus, flaxseeds are rich in fiber that helps the body eliminate harmful toxins, cholesterol and other waste products processed by the liver.

• Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed in a glass of warm water. Drink it daily on an empty stomach until you notice improvement in your condition.
• You can also add ground flaxseeds to yogurt, smoothies, soups and salads.

9. ALMOND

Almond is a magnesium-rich food that helps reduce painful cramps associated with ovarian cysts.

• Simply eat some dry roasted almonds to relieve the pain and discomfort.
• Alternatively, gentle massaging of the abdominal area with almond oil can help ease pain and bloating. For best results, add a few drops of jasmine essential oil to one tablespoon of almond oil and then use it for massage.
• You can also add one teaspoon of sweet almond oil to a glass of warm milk and drink it once daily.

Follow any of these remedies until you recover completely.

10. INCREASE FLUID INTAKE

When suffering from ovarian cysts, it is essential to increase your fluid intake. Your best option is water. Try to drink alkaline as well as filtered water at regular intervals. You can add a dash of lemon juice to a glass of water before drinking it. Water will flush out harmful toxins from your system and create a haven for healing . This in turn will reduce your pain and alleviate swelling in your abdomen.

Along with water, you can drink coconut water and green vegetable juice. Avoid coffee, soda and alcoholic beverages.

Seek immediate medical attention if you have severe or sharp pelvic pain, fever, dizziness, rapid breathing or vaginal pain with spotty bleeding. These symptoms can indicate a ruptured cyst or an ovarian torsion, which can have serious consequences if not treated timely. 

Thropay Chiropractic Specializes In KEEPING YOU HAPPY

...I am so pleased to find a substitute from regular meds. I have always reacted to drugs and found little help. Now Im off allergy meds and shots, and I feel so much better. I've also lost weight."
-Nancy G.
_________________________________________________________________________________

"...I love my experience here! Ive seen many medical doctors that couldnt help me!... "
-Martina B.
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" ...I enjoy every visit. I am always heard out and attended to, and have learned a lot about
what to eat and what not to eat. Thank you for taking care of me & my girls! - Michelle Z.
_________________________________________________________________________________

"...I just want to say Thank You for all your help. Many times through the years I have not been the perfect patient. However,I know that my health today is in result of your care, work, and love. You all are the best!" - M.R.

_________________________________________________________________________________

"...Nutrition Response Testing is the only way to go! Healing vs. cover-up." - C.B.

10 Magical Effects Music Has On the Mind

Every fan of music knows the tremendous power it can have over both thoughts and emotions. Great music can transform an ordinary day into something magical, even spiritual. It can provide solace, release, strong sensations and more. But music’s influence spreads further still: right up from our genetic code, through our thoughts and bodies and out into how we relate in groups.

1. IMPROVE VERBAL IQ

Practising the piano won’t just improve your musical abilities, it can also improve your visual and verbal skills.

A study of 8 to 11-year-olds found that, those who had extra-curricular music classes, developed higher verbal IQ, and visual abilities, in comparison to those with no musical training (Forgeard et al., 2008).

This shows the benefits of learning an instrument are not purely musical, but extend into cognition and visual perception.

2. FEELING THE CHILLS

Have you ever felt chills down your spine while listening to music? According to a study by Nusbaum and Silvia (2010), over 90% of us have.

How much you feel, though, depends on your personality. People who are high in one of the five personality dimensions called ‘openness to experience’, are likely to feel the most chills while listening to music.

In the study, people high in openness to experience were more likely to play a musical instrument, and more likely to rate music as important to them.

3. ACTIVE LISTENING AMPS UP HAPPINESS

If you’re not feeling the chills, perhaps you should try a little harder.

A recent study contradicts the old advice that actively trying to feel happier is useless.

In research by Ferguson and Sheldon (2013), participants who listened to upbeat classical compositions by Aaron Copland, while actively trying to feel happier, felt their moods lift more than those who passively listened to the music.

This suggests that engaging with music, rather than allowing it to wash over us, gives the experience extra emotional power.

4. SINGING TOGETHER BRINGS US TOGETHER

Since music is often a social activity, making it together can help bring us together.

A study of almost one thousand Finnish pupils who took part in extended music classes, found they reported higher satisfaction at school in almost every area, even those not related to the music classes themselves (Eerola & Eerola, 2013)

Explaining the results, the lead researcher Päivi-Sisko Eerola, said:

“Singing in a choir and ensemble performance are popular activities at extended music classes. Other studies have established that people find it very satisfying to synchronize with one another. That increases affiliation within the group and may even make people like each other more than before.”

5. MUSIC TREATS HEART DISEASE

…or at least it can help with the stress and anxiety associated with having treatment for coronary heart disease.

A review of 23 studies covering almost 1,500 patients found that listening to music reduced heart rate, blood pressure and anxiety in heart disease patients (Bradt & Dileo, 2009).

6. WHY SAD MUSIC LIFTS YOU UP

‘Mood management’ is the number one reason people love music.

And, all music fans know that music can have a cathartic effect. But, it’s still odd that, for some people, sad music can, under the right circumstances, improve their mood. Why?

According to a study by Kawakami et al. (2013), sad music is enjoyable because it creates an interesting mix of emotions; some negative, some positive.

Crucially, we perceive the negative emotions in the music, but don’t feel them strongly.

(Read more: Why Do We Enjoy Listening to Sad Music)

7. SEEING HAPPY FACES

Music may make you feel different, but as little as 15 seconds of music can change the way you judge the emotions on other people’s faces as well.

A study by Logeswaran et al. (2009) found that a quick blast of happy music made participants perceive other’s faces as happier. The same was true for a snatch of sad music. The biggest effect was seen when people looked at faces with a neutral expression.

In other words: people projected the mood of the music they were listening to onto other people’s faces.

8. THE COLOUR OF MUSIC

Music naturally makes people think of certain colours. Across different cultures, people pair particular types of music with particular colours.

In a study by Palmer et al. (2013), people from both Mexico and the US showed remarkable similarities in connecting duller, darker colours with sadder pieces of music and lighter, more vivid colours with happier music.

A follow-up study showed that these music-to-colour associations were seen because of the emotional content of the music.

9. COULD MUSIC BRING BACK YOUR VISION?

In 60% of people who have a stroke, the visual areas of the brain are affected.

This leads to ‘visual neglect’: the patient loses awareness of objects on the opposite side to where the brain has been damaged.

But, studies have found, when patients listen to their favourite music, some of their visual attention is restored (Tsai et al., 2013).

So, music can be an important tool in rehabilitation for stroke patients.

10. BABIES ARE BORN TO DANCE!

Infants as young as five-months-old respond rhythmically to music and seem to find it more interesting than speech.

In a study by Zentner and Eerola (2010), the babies spontaneously danced to all different types of music, and those that were most in time also smiled the most.

Maybe music really is in our genes!

Home Remedies for Depression

Depression, which was once believed to be a strictly mental condition, is now being found to be genetic. Depression effects more than 19 million people in America every single year. The most common treatment options for depression include medications with a variety of harmful side effects. Below is a list of natural, home made remedies that can help treat the symptoms of clinical depression.

1. St. John’s Wort
St. John’s wort is a popular herbal treatment for mild to moderate depression. It has chemical constituents like hypericin and hyperforin that work like an antidepressant, blocking re-uptake of serotonin and serotonin receptors.

Add one or two tablespoons of dried St. John’s wort to a cup of hot water and let it steep for 10 minutes. Strain and drink this tea twice daily. Follow this routine regularly to lift your mood.
Alternatively, you can take 300 milligrams of St. John’s wort supplement three times a day.
Consult a doctor before beginning regular use of St. John’s wort.

2. Cardamom
Cardamom can help detoxify the body and rejuvenate the cells, in turn helping improve your mood and treat depression.

Add one-half teaspoon of cardamom powder to one cup of warm water or milk. Drink it once daily.
You can also add a few drops of cardamom oil to your bath water. Soak yourself in this uplifting aroma-filled bath for 30 minutes daily.

3. Nutmeg
Nutmeg works like a brain tonic and helps stimulate your brain, eliminate fatigue and stress, and improve your mood.

Mix one-eighth teaspoon or a dash of nutmeg powder in one tablespoon of Indian gooseberry juice.
Drink this two times daily to calm the mind and relieve depression.
Do not take raw nutmeg in large doses as it has psychoactive effects.

4. Saffron
Saffron is high in carotenoids and B vitamins that help increase the levels of serotonin and other chemicals in the brain. In fact, a study published in Journal of Ethnopharmacology has found saffron to be as effective as fluoxetine (Prozac) in reducing mild to moderate depression.

Take 15 mg of dried extract of saffron twice daily to fight depression.
You can also use a little bit of saffron in cooking, milk shakes or smoothies.

5. Cashews
Being rich in vitamin C, cashew nuts stimulate the nervous system. Also, the riboflavin in cashews boosts energy so you can be active and joyful. Other useful nutrients in cashews that help combat depression are magnesium, tryptophan and vitamin B6.

Add one teaspoon of cashew nut powder to one cup of warm milk. Drink it once daily.
You can also eat a handful of dry roasted cashews as a healthy snack to lift your mood.

6. Fish Oil
Studies have found that people with depression usually have low intake of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are required for normal brain functioning, and is highly recommended for people with depression.

Take a daily supplement of fish oil to fight depression. Fish oil supplements are sold in health food stores, drug stores, grocery stores and online. Consult a doctor for the proper dosage.
Alternatively, you can eat cold water fish like salmon, sardines, and anchovies that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed and soy products are also good sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

7. Apples
Apples contain high levels of vitamin B, potassium and phosphorus. All these nutrients help your brain repair damaged nerve cells to improve its functioning, in turn helping fight symptoms of depression.

Chop one apple and put it in a blender or juicer to extract its juice.
Add the apple juice and one tablespoon of honey to one cup of warm milk.
Drink this twice a day.
Also, you can eat one apple daily to prevent depression.

8. Honey
The natural sugar present in honey helps fight the low feelings of depression. Plus, honey can relax frayed nerves. The amino acid called tryptophan present in honey induces sleep, which can help when depression is preventing you from getting proper sleep.

Gently crush five to 10 almonds and mix it with one tablespoon of honey. Eat one teaspoon of this this mixture twice daily, once in the morning and again before going to bed.
Mix one tablespoon of honey and one teaspoon of ginseng powder. Add one cup of hot water to this mixture and let it stand for five minutes. Drink it twice a day.

9. Asparagus
Asparagus contains several powerful compounds that can help lift your spirits and fight various symptoms of depression.

The high folate content in asparagus improves brain functioning, while its vitamin E helps put you in a good mood. Plus, the tryptophan present in asparagus produces serotonin in the brain that stabilizes moods.

To fight depression, eat asparagus fresh, steamed or grilled three or four times a week.
You can also take one-half or one teaspoon of powdered asparagus root with a glass of water daily as a depression beater.

10. Chicken
Low levels of vitamin B6 can contribute to depression. The body needs vitamin B6 to make mood-enhancing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. You can get the required amount of vitamin B6 from chicken. There is 0.5 mg of the vitamin in just 3 ounces of chicken.

Chicken is best for you when baked in the oven or stir fried with your favorite vegetables. You can also have a bowl of chicken soup. Avoid eating the skin or fried chicken, which can cause other health problems. Eat chicken two or three times a week.

Along with these natural alternatives, you can also do some practical things to lift your mood. Things like getting enough rest, avoiding junk foods, abstaining from alcohol, exercising daily, socializing, and laughing.

Sources:
National Center for Biotechnology Information
Top 10 Home Remedies
WebMD

Healthy Holiday Recipes, Part 5

Help yourself steer clear of harmful food products this holiday by preparing something delicious and healthful for Christmas dinner. This popular, easy-to-make dessert features winter fruits that bring health-enhancing nutrients to the table.

APPLE-PEAR-CRANBERRY CRUMBLE

6 organic tart apples, cored and sliced thin (peeling is optional) [Granny Smith apples are best for cooking]

3-4 organic pears, cored and sliced

1 cup organic cranberries, fresh or frozen

1/4 cup + 1/2 cup raw unfiltered honey, divided

3/4 cup organic whole barley flour (or buckwheat or brown rice flour for gluten-free)

1/2 cup sliced or chopped almonds

1/2 tsp. cinnamon

1/4 tsp. sea salt

1/3 cup butter

In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup honey, 2 tbsp. flour, and cinnamon. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a buttered 9x13 glass baking pan, place apple slices evenly. Spread honey mix over apples. Place pear slices evenly over top. Scatter cranberries over all.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine remaining flour, salt, 1/2 cup honey, and almonds. Cut butter into small pieces and blend well into this mixture. Spread evenly over fruit in baking pan. Bake at 350 for about 40 minutes, or until topping is lightly browned and fruit is bubbly.

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Need some last-minute gift ideas?

1) Gift cards for Thropay Health Center - use for nutrition, chiropractic, or massage services. The promo continues right through December! Buy 4 gift cards at $25 each, and get the 5th one free.

2) A shower head to filter out chlorine and a host of other harmful items like lead, cadmium, aluminum, mercury, arsenic, and hydrogen sulfide. The only one we know of that does all this is the Organic Excellence Shower Head and Filter, available online. (It's best to have one of these on every shower in the house!)

3) A grocery box filled with necessities from "Mrs. Thropay's Pantry Basics" hand-out

4) The "Healthful Cooking Made Simple" cookbook from our office - $20 each

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We are open Christmas Eve until 2:00 p.m., and again all day on Friday, December 26th. Call for your appointments at (562) 861-3896

MERRY CHRISTMAS to each of you, from all of us!

Susana, Dr. Lam, Antonia, Sylvia, Elvira, Dr. and Mrs. Thropay

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/

Pineapple Juice Is 5 Times More Effective Than Cough Syrup

Pineapple Juice Is 5 Times More Effective Than Cough Syrup

Did you know that pineapple juice is 500% more effective at helping you to stop coughing than cough syrup is? Well, it’s true, and it’s all on account of the fact that fresh pineapples contain a substance known as Bromelain; a specific type of enzyme that has anti-inflammatory characteristics which can combat infections and eradicate bacteria. Before you read on, check out this awesome video: Half your daily dose of vitamin C One glass pineapple juice also contains nearly half the amount of vitamin C that you require per day. Vitamin C is essential because as well as many other uses, it also enables your body to metabolize certain vital enzymes that regulate your metabolism and manage energy. A great source of manganese In addition to containing Bromelain and vitamin C, pineapple juice is also a good source of the mineral, manganese, which helps your body to maximize its absorption of calcium, aids the metabolization of carbohydrates and fats into energy, as well as facilitating healthy nerve function. Bromelain is a powerful anti-inflammatory It is also assumed that a certain amount of the Bromelain in pineapple juice is absorbed by the body directly, and that it works to lessen inflammation helping to relieve conditions like arthritis. In Germany Bromelain is specifically approved for treating inflammation and swelling of the nose, typically post sinus surgery. Choosing unprocessed natural pineapple juice instead of processed cough medicines If you’ve got an annoying cough that is simply caused through an irritation or is brought on by the common cold, you’ll do yourself far more good by reaching for natural pineapple rather than an OTC cough medicine. You’ll find the juice a less expensive option; one that doesn’t contain any nasty toxic elements, and one which has the appropriate nutrients to help you to get rid of your cold. Pineapple juice combats mucus Taking pineapple juice doesn’t just help to soothe the irritation of nasty coughs; it also helps to loosen up any annoying mucus. Back in 2010, some research was carried out in an attempt to find treatments to help sufferers of tuberculosis. The findings of the reports were published “Der Pharma Chemica”, and they included the fact that a mixture of natural pineapple juice, together with honey, and salt and pepper, when taken daily helps to dissolve mucus that congregates in the lungs, causing illnesses such as Mycobacterium Tuberculosis. A faster acting cough relief More recent studies have concluded that extract from natural pineapple juice gets rid of mucus five times quicker than other OTC cough medicines on sale in pharmacies, thereby helping people suffering from accumulations of mucus, to recover 4.8 times faster than those taking conventional medicines. Why not juice your own? Some pineapple juice that is on sale can include added sugar, so if you are watching your diet, and managing your weight, it’s best to go for the natural unsweetened variety which you’ll find on sale in most good supermarkets. Better still, and great for any holistic health lifestyle lovers, if you got a juicer in the house, why not buy fresh pineapples and make your own juice? Quick and easy pineapple juice based, cough remedy Here’s a recipe to help you to knock together your own wholly natural pineapple juice cough mixture. 1 cup of fresh pineapple juice – preferably home juiced Some fresh lemon juice – approximately a quarter of a cup A small piece of ginger – about 3 inches long 1 tablespoon of unprocessed honey Half a teaspoon of hot cayenne pepper Add all the ingredients to your juicer, and blitz! Your mucus and your cough will be gone in no time. Acknowledgements: http://www.curejoy.com/content/pineapple-juice-is-5-times-more-effective-than-cough-syrup/ http://www.healthy-holistic-living.com/pineapple-juice-5-times-effective-cough-syrup.html?t=mam

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