Asphalt-y logic?

Choosing the right running surface goes a long way toward protecting your knees. Find a grass, dirt, all-weather track or some other soft surface if you want to pick up the pace of your workout and run. Avoid asphalt it increases the impact on your joints -- and your chance of injuries, sore knees and shin splints.

All Miavita Fitness Tips

Soup's On!

Broth-based soups are a great way to fill up with few calories. Research shows that when you start a meal with a broth-based soup, especially one swimming with vegetables, you'll likely consume about 100 fewer calories at that meal. Better yet, the studies show you're unlikely to make up those calories at your next meal, either. Tomato soups are particularly healthy -- they have lycopene, thought to be a very powerful disease fighter. But steer clear of cream-based soups, which are packed with saturated fat and have lots of calories. If unsure, ask if the soup is made with cream.

All Miavita Tip of the Day

The Quickie Workout

Is your 30-minute workout always last on your to-do list? Here's help.Whether you're constantly time-crunched or just exercise averse, it's possible to get many of the same health benefits without freeing up a full half hour. Research consistently shows that three 10-minute sessions are as effective in many ways -- including controlling cholesterol -- as a solid 30-minute workout. So even if you're stretched thin between work and home, you can still make fitness a top priority.RealAge Benefit: Exercising regularly can make your RealAge as much as 9 years younger.

Originally published on 06/27/2006.
Read more about this tip.
Take the RealAge test today!

Balancing Your Hormones Without Drugs... You Can Feel Good Again

Balancing Your Hormones Without Drugs... You Can Feel Good Again $19.95 [ learn more ] Hormone imbalance can be reversed! Look and feel better than ever, just take the time to learn about yourself and read the information contained in this just released e-book about reversing hormone imbalance. Are you ready to finally look and feel great? If so... read on... - E-Book Version.(BH)

Conquering Diabetes Using Natural Methods

Conquering Diabetes Using Natural Methods $19.95 [ learn more ] THE PURPOSE of this e-book is to help you understand what causes Type II Diabetes (lifestyle induced) and how to restore balance to achieve ultimate or renewed health. Your body can heal itself without drugs and their painful or deadly side effects. You can live a long and healthy life. Read on and learn what simple and powerful decisions you can begin to make right now to restore your health and vitality, and conquer diabetes! - E-Book Version.(CD)

Conquering Heart Disease Using Natural Methods

Conquering Heart Disease Using Natural Methods $19.95 [ learn more ] Poor health and degenerative disease are caused by poor choices and the environment you expose yourself to. Good health is attainable, disease is curable and preventable, when we empower ourselves with the correct information and proper knowledge. We then begin making the choices that support our health. You must educate yourself first before starting any health program. This builds self-confidence and belief in what you are doing. This is your body we are talking about. Most people spend hundreds of dollars every month on new shoes, clothes, food, etc. How much do you spend on keeping yourself healthy? Without health, your body will start to deteriorate and age. Look and feel better than ever, just take the time to learn about yourself and read the information below. - E-Book Version.(HD)

Conquering Infertility Using Natural Methods

Conquering Infertility Using Natural Methods $19.95 [ learn more ] If you put forth the effort and follow our program, within 6 months you should become pregnant. In the majority of cases, infertility in men and women is a direct result of: lack of proper nutrition, obesity, lack of exercise, emotional disturbances and toxic buildup in the system. - E-Book Version.(FP)

Weight Loss Plan Kit $172.80 [ learn more ] Includes: Oxy-Powder, Slimirex (180 Count), Weight Loss Secrets Revealed, Ten Super Secrets for Weight Loss

Weight Loss Ebook - Secrets Revealed - Revised Edition

Weight Loss Ebook - Secrets Revealed - Revised Edition $19.95 [ learn more ] This is not only a weight loss program, it is also a plan for "TOTAL HEALTH". If you want a quick fix (taking metabolism boosters, etc.), only to gain more weight when you stop, do not even consider this program. Our program is designed to change the way you think and live your life. Change is only a decision away. You can do this! If you are motivated, and truly care about taking care of your body, and you are willing to make changes in your life, then this program is for you! - E-Book Version.(WL)

Weight Loss Plan Kit $172.80 [ learn more ] Includes: Oxy-Powder, Slimirex (180 Count), Weight Loss Secrets Revealed, Ten Super Secrets for Weight Loss

The benefits of Colon Hydrotherapy

• renewed energy & vitality
• healthy & natural weight loss
• health maintenance
• maximises fitness routines
• helps the body detoxify
• reduces the effects of ageing healthier,
• clearer complexion relief from bloating & constipation

Weight Loss Plan Kit $172.80 [ learn more ] Includes: Oxy-Powder, Slimirex (180 Count), Weight Loss Secrets Revealed, Ten Super Secrets for Weight Loss

Colon Hydrotherapy?

Colon Hydrotherapy?

A Lot of people have a sense of fear around of hydro-colon therapy . Many understand the wonderful benefits but find it hard to take the first step. It's really quite simple - let's allay your fears... So here's the good, the bad, and the ugly. There is a tube - and it does have to be inserted!

But the good news is that the tube is thinner than a pencil and you insert it yourself in complete privacy.Yes it's safe! No it doesn't hurt!We don't see your bottom!..or any other part of your private anatomy. You are covered during the entire session. You may choose to remain in complete solitude, or if you prefer you can have one of our practitioners assist you - you'll get better results that way.

Causes of Constipation: Problems with the Colon and Rectum

Intestinal obstruction, scar tissue (adhesions), diverticulosis, tumors, colorectal stricture, Hirschsprung's disease, or cancer can compress, squeeze, or narrow the intestine and rectum and cause constipation.

Causes of Constipation: Problems with Intestinal Function (Chronic Idiopathic Constipation)

Some people have chronic constipation that does not respond to standard treatment. This rare condition, known as idiopathic (of unknown origin) chronic constipation may be related to problems with intestinal function such as problems with hormonal control or with nerves and muscles in the colon, rectum, or anus. Functional constipation occurs in both children and adults and is most common in women.

Colonic inertia and delayed transit are two types of functional constipation caused by decreased muscle activity in the colon. These syndromes may affect the entire colon or may be confined to the lower or sigmoid colon.

Functional constipation that stems from abnormalities in the structure of the anus and rectum is known as anorectal dysfunction, or anismus. These abnormalities result in an inability to relax the rectal and anal muscles that allow stool to exit.

Article provided by the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse

Causes of Constipation: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Causes of Constipation: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Some people with IBS, also known as spastic colon, have spasms in the colon that affect bowel movements. Constipation and diarrhea often alternate, and abdominal cramping, gassiness, and bloating are other common complaints. Although IBS can produce lifelong symptoms, it is not a life-threatening condition. It often worsens with stress, but there is no specific cause or anything unusual that the doctor can see in the colon.

Causes of Constipation: Changes in Life or Routine
During pregnancy, women may be constipated because of hormonal changes or because the heavy uterus compresses the intestine. Aging may also affect bowel regularity because a slower metabolism results in less intestinal activity and muscle tone. In addition, people often become constipated when traveling because their normal diet and daily routines are disrupted.

Causes of Constipation: Abuse of Laxatives
Myths about constipation have led to a serious abuse of laxatives. This is common among people who are preoccupied with having a daily bowel movement.
Laxatives usually are not necessary and can be habit-forming. The colon begins to rely on laxatives to bring on bowel movements. Over time, laxatives can damage nerve cells in the colon and interfere with the colon's natural ability to contract. For the same reason, regular use of enemas can also lead to a loss of normal bowel function.

Causes of Constipation: Ignoring the Urge to Have a Bowel Movement
People who ignore the urge to have a bowel movement may eventually stop feeling the urge, which can lead to constipation. Some people delay having a bowel movement because they do not want to use toilets outside the home. Others ignore the urge because of emotional stress or because they are too busy. Children may postpone having a bowel movement because of stressful toilet training or because they do not want to interrupt their play.

Causes of Constipation: Specific Diseases
Diseases that cause constipation include neurological disorders, metabolic and endocrine disorders, and systemic conditions that affect organ systems. These disorders can slow the movement of stool through the colon, rectum, or anus.

Several kinds of diseases can cause constipation:

Causes of Constipation: Neurological disorders

• Multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson's disease
• chronic idiopathic intestinal pseudo-obstruction
• stroke
• spinal cord injuries

Causes of Constipation: Metabolic and endocrine conditions

• diabetes
• underactive or overactive thyroid gland
• uremia
• hypercalcemia

Causes of Constipation: Systemic disorders

• amyloidosis
• lupus
• scleroderma

Article provided by the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse

Causes of Constipation

What causes constipation?
To understand constipation, it helps to know how the colon (large intestine) works. As food moves through the colon, it absorbs water while forming waste products, or stool. Muscle contractions in the colon push the stool toward the rectum. By the time stool reaches the rectum, it is solid because most of the water has been absorbed.
The hard and dry stools of constipation occur when the colon absorbs too much water or if the colon's muscle contractions are slow or sluggish, causing the stool to move through the colon too slowly.

The Common Causes of Constipation
Common causes of constipation are

• not enough fiber in the diet
• not enough liquids
• lack of exercise
• medications
• irritable bowel syndrome
• changes in life or routine such as pregnancy, older age, and travel
• abuse of laxatives
• ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement
• stroke (by far the most common)
• problems with the colon and rectum
• problems with intestinal function (chronic idiopathic constipation)

Causes of Constipation: Not Enough Fiber in the Diet
The most common cause of constipation is a diet low in fiber found in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains and high in fats found in cheese, eggs, and meats. People who eat plenty of high-fiber foods are less likely to become constipated.
Fiber--both soluble and insoluble--is the part of fruits, vegetables, and grains that the body cannot digest. Soluble fiber dissolves easily in water and takes on a soft, gel-like texture in the intestines. Insoluble fiber passes through the intestines almost unchanged. The bulk and soft texture of fiber help prevent hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass.

According to the National Center for Health Statistics, Americans eat an average of 5 to 14 grams of fiber daily,* short of the 20 to 35 grams recommended by the American Dietetic Association. Both children and adults eat too many refined and processed foods from which the natural fiber has been removed.

A low-fiber diet also plays a key role in constipation among older adults, who may lose interest in eating and choose convenience foods low in fiber. In addition, difficulties with chewing or swallowing may force older people to eat soft foods that are processed and low in fiber.

*National Center for Health Statistics. Dietary Intake of Macronutrients, Micronutrients, and Other Dietary Constituents: United States, 1988-94. Vital and Health Statistics, Series 11, number 245. July 2002.

Causes of Constipation: Not Enough Liquids
Liquids like water and juice add fluid to the colon and bulk to stools, making bowel movements softer and easier to pass. People who have problems with constipation should drink enough of these liquids every day, about eight 8-ounce glasses. Liquids that contain caffeine, like coffee and cola drinks, and alcohol have a dehydrating effect.

Causes of Constipation: Lack of Exercise
Lack of exercise can lead to constipation, although doctors do not know precisely why. For example, constipation often occurs after an accident or during an illness when one must stay in bed and cannot exercise.

Causes of Constipation: Medications
Some medications can cause constipation. They include

• pain medications (especially narcotics)
• antacids that contain aluminum and calcium
• blood pressure medications (calcium channel blockers)
• antiparkinson drugs
• antispasmodics
• antidepressants
• iron supplements
• diuretics
• anticonvulsants

Article provided by the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse

Constipation Information

Constipation is passage of small amounts of hard, dry bowel movements, usually fewer than three times a week. People who are constipated may find it difficult and painful to have a bowel movement. Other symptoms of constipation include feeling bloated, uncomfortable, and sluggish.

Many people think they are constipated when, in fact, their bowel movements are regular. For example, some people believe they are constipated, or irregular, if they do not have a bowel movement every day. Also, some people naturally have firmer stools than others.
At one time or another, almost everyone gets constipated. Poor diet and lack of exercise are usually the causes. In most cases, constipation is temporary and not serious. Understanding its causes, prevention, and treatment will help most people find relief.

Who gets Constipated?

According to the 1996 National Health Interview Survey, about 3 million people in the United States have frequent constipation. Those reporting constipation most often are women and adults age 65 and over. Pregnant women may have constipation, and it is a common problem following childbirth or surgery.

Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints in the United States, resulting in about 2 million doctor visits annually. However, most people treat themselves without seeking medical help, as is evident from the millions of dollars Americans spend on laxatives each year.

Article provided by the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse

Homemade Colon Cleanse: Colon Cleanse Recipes

For this treatment, I’m going to try an all natural herb based colon cleansing kit. However, if you’re looking for a homemade colon cleanse, there are many free colon cleanse recipes available online that you can use.

Homemade Colon Cleanse Recipe #1

• 2 Tablespoons of Flaxseed Meal
• 1/2 Banana, semi ripe
• 1/2 Papaya, ripe
• 2 teaspoons of Golden Omega-Omega Oil
• 1 heaping tablespoon of Green Magic
• 2 capsules of Probiotic Complex
• 1 1/2 -1 3/4 cups of purified water

Blend above ingredients until smooth.

Homemade Colon Cleanse Recipe #2

Mix together immediately after waking up and before breakfast:

• half-fill with grape or cherry juice quarter-fill with water
• 3 tablespoons liquid bentonite
• 1 heaping teaspoon of psyllium HUSK powder
• 1 level teaspoon of vitamin C crystals
• 1/2 teaspoon papain powder
• 1/2 teaspoon psyllium SEED powder
• 1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder

Shake well for 10 seconds and drink right away.

Abdominal pain

Abdominal pain is pain that you feel anywhere between your chest and groin. This is often referred to as the stomach region or belly.

Abdominal pain can range from mild to severe: be dull or sharp; There are many causes of abdominal pain.

There are many organs in the abdomen. Pain in the abdomen can originate from any one of them, including:

Organs related to digestion - the stomach, the end of the esophagus, the small and large intestines, the liver, the gallbladder, and the pancreas.

The aorta - a large blood vessel that runs straight down the inside of the abdomen.
The appendix - an organ in the lower right abdomen that no longer serves much function.
The kidneys - two bean shaped organs that lie deep within the abdominal cavity.
However, the pain may originate from somewhere else - like your chest or pelvic region. You may also have a generalized infection affecting many parts of your body, like the flu or strep throat.

• Appendicitis
• cancer
• flu
• Gas and gas pains
• Liver Flush
• viral gastroenteritis

The intensity of the pain does not always reflect the seriousness of the condition causing the pain. Severe abdominal pain can be from mild conditions, such as gas or the cramping of viral gastroenteritis. On the other hand, relatively mild pain or no pain may be present with life-threatening conditions, such as cancer of the colon or early appendicitis.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional GI disorder characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits in the absence of demonstrable organic pathology. Osler coined the term mucous colitis in 1892 when he wrote of a disorder of mucorrhea and abdominal colic with a high incidence in patients with coincident psychopathology. Since that time, the syndrome has been referred to by sundry terms, including spastic, irritable, and nervous colon.

• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Colic

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common disorders that physicians see. Yet it's also one that many people aren't comfortable talking about. IBS is characterized by abdominal pain or cramping and changes in bowel function — including bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation — problems most people don't like to discuss. What's more, for many years IBS was considered a psychological rather than a physical problem.

• Abdominal pain
• constipation
• Diarrhea
• Gas and gas pains

The disorder accounts for more than one out of every 10 doctor visits. For most people, signs and symptoms of irritable bowel disease are mild. Only a small percentage of people with IBS have severe signs and symptoms.
Fortunately, unlike more serious intestinal diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn disease, IBS doesn't cause inflammation or changes in bowel tissue or increase your risk of colorectal cancer. In many cases, you can control IBS by managing your diet, lifestyle and stress.

Gas and gas pains - Flatulence

Intestinal gas can strike at the worst possible moment - during an important meeting, on a crowded elevator or on a first date. And although passing intestinal gas (flatus) usually isn't serious, it can be seriously embarrassing.
The fact is that everyone passes gas - a combination of oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen, carbon dioxide and methane - at least 12 or more times a day. But some people have excessive gas that bothers them most of the time. In some cases, gas you can't expel or that accompanies irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), lactose intolerance, celiac disease or stomach flu (gastroenteritis) can cause intense, intermittent pain.

• Celiac disease
• flu
• Gastroenteritis
• IBS
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Lactose intolerance
• Stomach flu
  

The good news is that although you can't stop gas from forming, a few simple measures can go a long way toward reducing the amount of gas you produce and relieving your discomfort and embarrassment.

Increasing Flatulence

Provided by: DrDonnica.com

Question
This is really embarrassing. As I've gotten older, I've developed an increasing problem with passing gas. It happens all the time without warning, like when I sit down or pick up something heavy. It's getting to the point where I feel too anxious to go out to a restaurant or party. I've already tried cutting out problem foods like dairy and beans, but it hasn't helped! Is there anything else I can try?

Dr. Donnica's Question

Age-related changes in the large intestine, along with increased use of medications and reduced physical activity, tend to slow the transit of stool through the large intestine causing an increased incidence of flatulence (gassiness) as well as constipation. Flatulence occurs when a food does not break down completely in the stomach and small intestine. As a result, it gets into the large intestine in an undigested state.
There are certain foods known to produce more flatulence than others, either because they contain more indigestible carbohydrates than others (beans) or because the individual lacks the enzymes necessary to digest them. This is the case with people who have developed lactose intolerance and have trouble digesting milk and dairy products. If you are lactose intolerant, products such as Lactaid TM would be helpful.

There are several non-prescription products marketed to help reduce flatulence in general, such as Gas-Ex TM and Beano TM . I also recommend that you try a gas-reducing diet. There are many approaches (visit http://www.gicare.com/pated/edtgs12.htm for some examples) but the object of all of them is to identify which particular foods cause you the most problems with gas and to either eliminate them from your diet or limit the consumption of that particular kind of food. There are two general approaches. The first is to continue to eat as you normally do, but eliminate one category of gas producing foods for at least a week. If there is no lessening of gas, put those foods back in your diet and then eliminate another category for a week. Follow this procedure until you reach a level of flatulence that is tolerable.

Since your situation is so bothersome that it's interfering with your social life, I recommend the second approach. Severely restrict all categories of gas producing foods for four days. Then reintroduce one food at a time. If this addition causes no increased flatulence, continue to enjoy it. If you notice an increase in gas, eliminate the food item permanently and go on to try the next food. Continue this process until you've identified all of the foods that cause gas. The foods that are the worst offenders in flatulence production vary greatly among individuals, but they generally include: all kinds of beans; all kinds of milk and dairy products; onions; celery; carrots; raisins; apricots; prunes; wheat products; and Brussels sprouts.

Why warm up before a workout?

During a warm-up, your body gradually prepares to bring extra blood and oxygen to the muscles during your workout. Your heart and respiration rate slowly increase, capillaries dilate and blood supplies flow to your extremities, which will need extra oxygen to fuel your muscles when you pick up the pace. The added heat and blood flow allow muscles to become more compliant, and thus less prone to injury. Finally, a proper warm-up is likely to improve your performance.

Yahoo – Nutrition & Fitness

When did garlic get its heart-healthy reputation?

Even ancient man suspected garlic was good for the heart. Dioscorides, the Roman who codified Greek herbal medicine in the first century A.D., wrote in his "Materia Medica" that garlic "clears the arteries." The ancient Indian Ayurvedic text "Charaka Samhita" holds that garlic "maintains the fluidity of the blood, strengthens the heart and prolongs life." But it's only in the past few decades that garlic's effect on blood cholesterol, blood clotting and other heart disease risk factors have been systematically studied.


Yahoo - Nutrition & Fitness

Is it true grapefruit juice and prescription medications don't mix?

Amazingly, grapefruit juice can interfere with some prescription medications. Grapefruit and its juice contains a phytochemical that inhibits the enzyme needed to break down antihistamines, calcium-channel blockers, immunosuppressants, sedatives and protease inhibitors (treatments for Aids), among others. As a result, blood levels of those drugs stay higher than expected, with potentially serious side effects. If you drink grapefruit juice regularly and are prescribed medication, mention it to your health care provider.

Yahoo - Nutrition & Fitness

Carnie Wilson's Surgery and Treatment for Obesity

Carnie Wilson's Surgery and Treatment for Obesity
Provided by: DrDonnica.com

Q: I am interested in more information about the surgery that Carnie Wilson had for weight loss. I live in Seattle, Washington. Do you know of someone who does this surgery in Seattle?
Thank you. --B.O.

A: I give you a great deal of credit for beginning to come to terms with your weight management needs! You might want to start by reading Carnie's books, Gut Feelings: From Fear and Despair to Health and Hope and I'm Still Hungry: Finding Myself Through Thick and Thin. Both are available at amazon.com.

While I cannot recommend personal physicians, you may want to check the "Doctor Finder" at SpotlightHealth.com for physicians in your area who specialize in the various forms of surgery for morbid obesity (not just the one Carnie Wilson had).

Weight Loss Plan Kit $172.80 [ learn more ] Includes: Oxy-Powder, Slimirex (180 Count), Weight Loss Secrets Revealed, Ten Super Secrets for Weight Loss

Dieting and Hair Loss

Dieting and Hair Loss
Provided by: DrDonnica.com

Q: I've been on a diet for about six months, and the good news is I've lost 15 pounds. But the bad news is I'm also losing my hair! It used to be shiny and strong, but now my hair is dull and comes out in clumps whenever I brush it. I haven't changed anything else in my life except my eating habits. Could I be missing some nutrient that's making me go bald, and can I ever get my hair back?

A: Congratulations on your weight loss! If you were significantly overweight, losing this amount will significantly improve your overall health and reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease, the number one killer of women and men in our country. Losing this much weight can also create a change in your hormonal levels, which could be contributing to your hair loss, but it could also be a coincidence. Vitamin and nutritional balance may also be a factor.

I recommend that all women-especially those who are dieting-take a daily multivitamin. Most women also need calcium supplements. There are now also vitamins specifically designed for women who are dieting (such as One A Day Weight Smart TM ).

There are even supplements specifically designed for healthy hair (such as Nature's Bounty Vitamins for Hair TM ). You should start taking vitamins as soon as possible, but you should also consult a dermatologist to see if there are other issues affecting your scalp and hair loss.

Weight Loss Plan Kit $172.80 [ learn more ] Includes: Oxy-Powder, Slimirex (180 Count), Weight Loss Secrets Revealed, Ten Super Secrets for Weight Loss

Should I use complementary medicine?

Should I use complementary medicine?

Wise Health Decision

Use this worksheet to help you make your decision. After completing it, you should have a better idea of how you feel about using complementary medicine. Discuss the worksheet with your doctor.

Male fish becoming female?

Male fish becoming female? Researchers worry about estrogen and pollutants in the water By Tom Costello Correspondent NBC News Updated: 2:54 p.m. ET Nov. 9, 2004 BOULDER, Colo. - Researchers in Colorado have made a startling discovery. Fish, apparently male, are developing female sexual organs. Scientists believe it's the result of too much estrogen in the water and they're finding estrogen in rivers across the country. In Colorado's rivers and streams, scientists are waist-deep in ritual of the season, using electric currents to stun native fish to the surface where they're measured and checked. But what they discovered in the white sucker fish has got even veteran scientists concerned. "I've done a lot of studies throughout my career which extends back to 1973," says research associate John Woodling. “This is the very first time that what I've found scared me." "This fish has characteristics of both male and female," says Dr. David O. Norris of the University of Colorado, Boulder. And scientists have found lots of them in three Colorado rivers, all of them downstream from sewage treatment plants. In the Boulder Creek, female white suckers outnumbered males five to one and 50 percent of the males also had female sex tissue. Researchers say the cause is too much estrogen in the water, a natural female hormone that is found in every sewer system. But also, they say, certain chemical compounds in detergents and soaps can mimic estrogen. Barbara Biggs, of Denver's largest sewage plant, says most of the nation's sewage plants simply can't remove all the estrogen in the water. "We're concerned about the effect on aquatic life, but we're also concerned about our ability to actually treat for these estrogens and estrogen mimickers," says Biggs. Estrogen mimickers are believed to be caused by chemicals called nonylphenols, found in everything from paints and rubber to cosmetics and plastics. They are considered a possible cause of kidney, eye, liver and reproductive problems. They’ve been banned in much of Europe and are under review in Canada, but are still common in America, where they are flowing out of sewage plants and into clean water flowing into America's rivers. Government researchers recently found natural estrogens and estrogen mimickers in 80 percent of the streams they tested in 30 states. "We would be ingesting those chemicals, would absorb them, and they would add to whatever natural hormones we already have in the body," says Dr. Norris. No one is certain what the impact is on humans. But since finding evidence that estrogen may be turning male fish into female fish, scientists are now looking at what it means for the nation's drinking water. In a state that prides itself on living in harmony with nature, this is evidence, say researchers, of a hormonal imbalance.
© 2004 MSNBC Interactive

Arizona Judge Amendsd Parenting Plan, Orders Vaccinations

For Immediate Release: November 10, 2004 Arizona Judge Amends Parenting Plan, Orders Vaccinations Can a judge be unbiased when forced to rule whether or not his own order caused permanent injury to children? By Don Harkins (Editor - Idaho Observer) In their efforts to protect two children from family court-ordered vaccinations, Janet and John Burton of Tempe, Arizona, find themselves at center stage in a precedent-setting child custody case. At issue is plaintiff/parent Steven Hutchinson seeking a court order awarding him full custody of two children based on the mother’s insistence that they be lawfully exempted from vaccination. This case is exemplary of a national trend where hundreds, possibly thousands of divorced parents are punished by the state because their ex-spouses choose to use the vaccination issue as a means to gain the custodial upper hand. In many cases, as in the Burton case, one parent may be on record as agreeing with the other parent’s non-vaccination position but changes their mind to enlist the court’s help in undermining the other’s access to the children. Arizona District Judge Larry Grant of Maricopa county has ignored the Burton ’s evidence regarding the dangers of vaccines and upheld Hutchinson’s desire that five-year-old Greyson and seven-year-old Gwyneth be vaccinated. Judge Grant further defied Janet’s well-founded concerns by ordering that Hutchinson may determine what vaccines his children will receive and choose the practitioner who will deliver them. Judge Grant’s order was carried out May 12, 2004. The children were, “…physically restrained and forcefully vaccinated by a reckless, unprofessional ‘health practitioner’ who administered to them 21 vaccines in less than an hour. This ‘kiddie cocktail’ of mercury, aluminum, pathogenic viruses and more may have changed the course of my children’s lives forever,” Janet Burton explained. Neither Hutchinson nor Judge Grant are licensed to prescribe medication in Arizona or any other state. However, armed with Judge Grant’s court order, Hutchinson “prescribed” seven shots (DTaP, IPV, MMR, Hib, Hep B, Varicella and PCV—for a total of 21 vaccines) each for his children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and its “catch-up” schedule, Gwyneth and Greyson should not have received the Hib and PCV shots because they were both past the age of five years. The osteopath Hutchinson used (who is licensed to prescribe medicines) administered the contraindicated vaccines per the judge’s order. Arizona VacLib Chapter Director Kim Medlin has conducted further research into the vaccines administered to Gwyneth and Greyson on May 12. Medlin has found that four of them came from what are called “hot lots”—batches of vaccines known to be causing unusually high numbers of adverse reactions. One of the vaccines is known to be contaminated with bovine spongiform encephalitis—also known as “mad cow” disease. The Burtons have noticed that Gwyneth and Greyson’s personalities have changed since the severe assault of 21 vaccines May 12 and that they are both more sickly. Janet believes the court is getting ready to order that her children be subjected to another round of vaccinations. Several qualified physicians have commented that the first round of vaccinations appear to have caused damage to these two children and concur that additional vaccinations at this time would do more harm than good. Since this case was initiated by Hutchinson last March, Janet has forced the court to review much evidence regarding the dangers of vaccines. They have also enlisted the support of Drs. Muhammad Al-Bayati, Russell Blaylock and William Rae. Judge Grant has demonstrated that he has considered the information provided by Janet when stating for the record that he could not support their position because it would be an admission that, by recommending and ordering vaccines as a policy, the state of Arizona has been engaging in child abuse for decades. The evidence supports Janet’s claims that Hutchinson’s actions are purely vindictive and that he is using his children to punish his former wife for divorcing him last year. “This is the same man that just a few years ago sat me down in front of a computer monitor and proceeded to navigate around various websites in an effort to educate me on the hidden truths about all the risks and cover-ups associated with the ‘experimental’ surgical procedure we all loosely refer to today as childhood immunizations. Of course, as informed, responsible co-parents, we jointly agreed not to vaccinate our children. We made this decision and many other decisions such as birthing our children at home, breastfeeding each baby for a full year and a half and following up with a healthy, organic food plan thereafter. We also agreed that no pharmaceutical medications were to be given and, for certain, we would not mindlessly entrust our children to ignorant, drug-pushing doctors. All of these decisions seemed to serve our two children well as they truly epitomized wellness, vitality and brilliance. Both their father and I were proud of the positions we had taken on issues that pertained to our children’s health and well-being and agreed to continue with what had worked (holistic methods of treatment) for our perfect children when we divorced. Together we outlined our beliefs concerning alternative methods of treatment for our children and made this part of our Parenting Plan—which is on file with the courts to this very day,” Janet explained. Among the documents before Judge Grant are reports of increased risk of adverse reactions in children who receive multiple antigens and letters stating that Gwyneth and Greyson are showing signs of vaccine damage. The Burton’s attorney Wallace Nichols is orchestrating a legal strategy intended to spare Gwyneth and Greyson another round of court-ordered vaccinations. In the process of this child custody case being decided by Judge Grant, the court will be forced to consider the validity of state-recommended vaccination schedules against published science and the expert testimony of qualified neuroscientists, pathologists and medical doctors. And, if the Burtons are able to arrange for her children to undergo a full medical and biochemical analysis by Dr. Rae at the Environmental Health Center in Dallas (EHCD), Judge Grant will be forced to consider the possibility that vaccinations he ordered to appease the wishes of a man seeking retribution on his former spouse have caused two innocent children to suffer permanent injury. The move will also force Hutchinson to legally “trump” the Burton’s medical evidence of vaccine damage by entering into the record an expert second opinion contradicting the findings of Dr. Rae’s EHCD. Burton supporters believe Hutchinson will not be able to discredit the pending EHCD report. “I will take this case as far as it will go,” commented Janet who understands the huge implications this case will have in child custody disputes all over the nation. The EHCD and the work of Dr. Rae in the field of environmental toxicology has come highly recommended by Dr. Sherri Tenpenny and others. The cost for the series of tests to be run on both children is estimated at $3,000. Supporters are willing to supply room and board for the Burtons during the four days they will be in Dallas. The Burtons can use our help in this matter as attorney fees and lost wages are causing them to experience a significant degree of financial hardship. Dr. Rae and the staff at EHCD have excellent credentials and utilize state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and procedures to arrive at scientifically sound conclusions that stand up in court. To find out more about EHCD, the services it offers and references, go to www.ehcd.com Vaccination Liberation, a national grassroots volunteer association, sees the huge implications of this case and has forwarded a $100 donation to the Burtons to help cover the cost of testing. Vaccination Liberation also requests that medical practitioners nationwide match their donation to this worthy cause. For more information, contact Janet Burton at 480-785-4846. The mailing address for donations and correspondence is Wallace R. Nichols, Esq. 15770 N. Greenway-Hayden Loop, Ste. 104, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 Background of case—from Janet Burton Last March, my former husband Steven Hutchinson, the father of Gwyneth and Greyson, hired legal counsel who announced to the court that his client had a recent change of heart regarding the subject of childhood vaccinations. They asked the judicial ‘system’ to assist Hutchinson in carrying out an act of medically-induced child abuse. And so they did. Though we spent nearly $30,000 on legal fees and were able to generate considerable sympathetic local media coverage, Hutchinson prevailed and was given the opportunity to vaccinate the children with the vaccines of his choice by the health care provider of his choice. This decision was based upon what a judge proclaimed to be a ‘Public Policy’ in the state of Arizona to vaccinate all children. The judge also stated that to rule otherwise would be to admit our government has committed child abuse for decades. With a newly-obtained court order in hand and accompanied by three police cars, Hutchinson and a female accomplice whisked Gwyneth and Greyson away from their school and drove them to a nearby emergency health care clinic. Hutchinson tricked my children by telling them they were only going in for their first check up. Once inside, Hutchinson, along with a woman posing as my children’s mother, authorized a health practitioner (D.O.) to administer cocktails of poisons into Greyson and Gwyneth’s lymphatic systems. This ‘cocktail’ included the DTaP, IPV, MMR, Hib, Hep B, Varicella and PCV vaccines and were given to both children within less than an hour. These vaccines were recklessly combined and, adding insult to injury, two of the vaccines were age inappropriate and one vaccine was from a contaminated lot now known to be infected with BSE or mad cow disease. Virtually no consideration was given to our children’s medical family history, which includes a primary family member (half-sister) who suffered from grand mal seizures for four years after being vaccinated with the MMR vaccine. This family history of seizures puts both of my children at a much greater risk of experiencing seizures than the general population. It is beyond most people’s comprehension how a few unqualified and grossly misguided people can persevere legally to have these toxic vaccines (that are non-emergency medicine) forced upon my children - literally gambling with their lives. And for what medical justification? None was provided. Our five-year-old son and nearly seven-year-old daughter are well past the ages of life-threatening consequences from any of the diseases these CDC-recommended vaccines were supposed to ‘protect’ them from. Greyson and Gwyneth had everything to lose by this insane proposition and nothing to gain. Immunizations (an inaccurate term that leads one to believe that these vaccinations do something to safeguard our little ones from contracting ‘scary’ childhood diseases) are just one grand medical experiment. Time and again, vaccinations have been proven by researchers and non-special interest groups to be ineffective in preventing the spread of infectious diseases and unsafe with consequences ranging from minor irritation at the injection site to death. As a mom, I declared to the children’s father and to the presidingjudge that no one was going to subject my children to such a barbaric, unfounded experiment. The judge exercised his authority to rule otherwise and with the slamming of a gavel, he delivered a ruling for which our children would pay dearly. Approximately 48 hours after the hideous vaccination event May 12, 2004, I was finally able to see my children. I was overwhelmed at the sight of my two children completely dazed and suffering adverse effects such as dehydration, lethargy, dry heaves, headaches, burning eyes, sore throats and, of course, aching thighs with ‘battle scars’ from where needles were drug along my son’s tiny legs as he fought to resist the poison that was being forced hypodermically into his body. Four months later, both Greyson and Gwyneth still show obvious signs of being vaccine damaged. Especially tragic for me is what I witness each day in our son, whose overall health and personality has changed dramatically. It is obvious to me that our son Greyson has been neurologically impaired as a result of being over-vaccinated and is in dire need of diagnostic and remedial care. Instead of a ruling in favor of our motion requesting an “Emergency Stay” be put in place to prevent future vaccinations until I had the opportunity to get both children evaluated and treated for injuries from which they are still suffering, I am instead faced with obstacles placed before us by a judicial system that makes it nearly impossible to get my children medical care and, worse still, appears determined to order our children be re-vaccinated. To date, the court is ignoring the pleadings from several medical experts such as Dr. Russell Blaylock, Dr. Mohammed Al-Bayati, Dr. Doris Rapp, Dr. Stuart Lanson and Dr. Rae – all who have testified that the odds of our two children suffering even more devastating consequences from additional vaccinations would be great and certainly a risk not worth taking. Adding to the absurdity of my family’s case, in July 2004, Hutchinson took me to court in an effort to find me in contempt for not allowing our children to leave with him on a cruise ship to some undisclosed destination off the continental U.S. just 72 hours after receiving 21 vaccinations—while both children were still obviously struggling with the physical and emotional aftermath of this traumatic event. The ruling was handed down three months later that I was indeed ruled to be in ‘contempt’ for my decision to follow my heart, good sense, the advise of medical experts and the recommendations of the CDC suggesting that long distance travel is not a prudent choice for at least three weeks following a child being vaccinated. This recent ruling will cost me upwards of $20,000 once all fines and fees have been paid. We are left with no choice but to appeal this decision to the Court of Appeals or higher. My attorney is confident that we will prevail once a reasonable judge who knows and enforces the laws of our state hears this case. The injustices Greyson, Gwyneth, John and I have suffered are beyond anything I could have dreamed of. Now $30,000 later (my initial attorney fees) and six months down the road, the picture I see of the foreseeable future includes courts, attorneys, doctors and a strangely smirking man who used to be my husband; it also includes two children who have been needlessly damaged at the hands of a judge who empowered their reckless, malice-intending father to carry out the heinous act of forcing an overdose of contaminated and dangerous vaccines on our once perfectly healthy and bright children. It is important to understand that our particular case here in Arizona is one of hundreds all over the country. This same plot is playing all over the nation and those who decide to make the informed choice to abstain from vaccination are subject to having their decision challenged in court by a non-custodial parent, legal guardian or a social worker. And, because the court is the state and the state is recommending the vaccines you wish to avoid, it is not difficult to predict which party will prevail in a child custody dispute where unvaccinated children and family court are involved. We are laying a legal foundation that will allow this case to be heard in the Supreme Court of Arizona. If needed, we are prepared to go all the way to D.C. But, more pressing on my heart today is the children’s need for immediate medical attention. Dr. Rae in Dallas, Texas, has agreed to examine and treat both of my children in an effort to help them recover from the damage that has already been caused and to help ward off the potential for future health-related events and consequences. Dr. Rae is one of only three physicians equipped with the diagnostic equipment necessary to accurately assess the extent to which my children’s brains and bodies have been damaged. These vaccine-related injuries prevent Greyson’s pupils from constricting naturally when exposed to light and Gwyneth is beginning to show signs of a learning disability. Both of my children are continually complaining of aches and pains, and sickliness has replaced their previously robust health. If you are passionate about the rights of parents and children to abstain from state sanctioned medical experimentation and are in a position to contribute financially to our family’s case/cause, make your check or money order payable to Wallace R. Nichols. If you prefer your donation be allocated towards the medical expenses involved in my children’s aftercare, please indicate so in the memo area of your check or money order.

From the bottom of our hearts - Greyson, Gwyneth, John and I ... THANK YOU.
In Unity there is Strength, Janet Burton

Airlines Agree to Drinking Water Tests

Airlines Agree to Drinking Water Tests

JOHN HEILPRIN Associated Press WASHINGTON - The government and a dozen airlines struck a deal Tuesday requiring sanitation improvements and increased testing of drinking water aboard aircraft after officials found evidence of harmful bacteria in the water of one in every eight planes tested. At the same time, the Environmental Protection Agency announced it would perform random water quality tests on 169 domestic and international passenger aircraft at 14 airports throughout the United States and publish the results by the end of the year. If coliform bacteria are discovered, the airliners will have to be disinfected within 24 hours unless the agency grants an extension because the plane involved is outside the United States. In the meantime, passengers would find signs posted in the lavatories and galleys of affected aircraft. Two months ago, EPA tested drinking water aboard 158 randomly selected domestic and international passenger aircraft and found that 12.6 percent had drinking water that did not meet federal safety standards. Twenty of the tested planes - small commuter aircraft to jumbo jets - returned positive results for coliform bacteria, usually harmless itself but an indicator of the possible presence of other harmful organisms. Two planes tested positive for E. coli bacteria, which can cause gastrointestinal illness. The EPA advises passengers with immune system problems to avoid drinking water from airplane galleys or lavatories. The airlines said they are confident their drinking water is safe, and they believe the number of airplanes that failed the agency's safe water test is closer to one in 20. In a statement, the Air Transport Association, which represented the airlines in Tuesday's agreement, said, "Our members wanted to address once and for all questions the EPA raised about airline drinking water." Still, the association said, the airlines believe "aircraft drinking water is just as safe as the municipal water systems that supply it." The EPA summer tests showed that 87.4 percent of the planes tested had water that met federal standards, slightly below the 90 percent compliance among municipal drinking water systems in the United States. The new agreement could be costly to the industry, in part because some planes will have to be flown to airports capable of the flushing and testing required. The agreement with major carriers require the airlines to analyze possible sources of contamination that exist outside aircraft and to tell the government how they get drinking water from foreign public water suppliers not regulated by EPA. Under the agreement: _Airlines must disinfect and flush each airplane's potable water system quarterly. _Airlines must flush out trucks, carts and hoses that carry the water monthly. _Airlines must notify EPA immediately when an airplane tests positive for coliform bacteria; EPA will ensure the problem is corrected. _EPA will meet with the airlines quarterly over the next year to determine whether changes in the process are needed. _After the first year, the airlines and EPA will meet for 30 days to decide on the process for the next year. _Airlines must notify the public or discontinue water service on aircraft that return coliform-positive test results. The airlines must disinfect airplanes within 24 hours of positive test results, or longer if an extension is granted because the plane is outside the country. Signing agreements with EPA were Alaska Airlines, Aloha Airlines, American Airlines, America West, ATA Airlines, Continental Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue, Midwest Airlines, Northwest Airlines, United Airlines and U.S. Airways. Separate agreements are being negotiated with Delta and Southwest airlines, EPA officials said. While the 14 airlines constitute the majority of U.S. airlines, the agency said it also is working with smaller, regional and charter aircraft carriers to improve drinking water quality.
ON THE NET EPA: http://www.epa.gov/airlinewater
Air Transport Association: http://www.airlines.org

Overdo$ed America

Overdo$ed America "Overdo$ed America" by John Abramson, M.D., is eye-opening reading for anyone who wants to know more of the truth about the multiple scams being perpetrated against gullible consumers by the pharmaceutical industry in 2004. If you're like me and feel sick to your stomach every time a slick, expensive drug commercial shows up on your TV screen as you're trying to watch the news, you long ago sensed that Big Pharm was making Big Bucks with their Big Promos. Well, your suspicions will be confirmed long before you finish reading Abramson's detailed, well-researched, and carefully documented indictment of the pharmaceutical companies that sell over $200 billion a year worth of drugs in America. And many of those best-selling, highly-advertised drugs are of questionable value. If you're taking osteoporosis or cholesterol-lowering prescription medications, for example, you're in for a shock. Did you know that five of the fourteen experts who participated in writing the new cholesterol guidelines, including the chair of the panel, disclosed financial relationships with manufacturers of statin drugs? Four of these five experts, according to Abramson, including the chair of the panel, had relationships with all three manufacturers of the best-selling statins. Long-term readers of this newsletter know I would eat a bicycle seat before I'd put a prescription drug in my body, but my anti-drug point of view has never been a popular one. It's a shame, but most people never challenge the idea that disease can be "cured" by drugs and instead spend tremendous amounts of money over their life times on compounds that may well cause as much harm as good. After reading "Overdo$ed America," people who think for themselves will be a lot less likely to fall for current or future drug scams that are destroying the credibility of American medicine. This book is must reading for anyone who wants to learn more about how Big Pharm distorts medical knowledge, misleads doctors, and compromises your health.