Yeast and where you can benefit from it

Yeast and where you can benefit from it

I know this is quite an opening statement for a blog and everything in you wants to scream “Candida”! I’ve recently taken up the challenge of making my own sourdough starter and making slowly fermented sourdough breads. What a treat! Let’s have a closer look at yeast and where it can be found.

Yeast is an organism that needs food, warmth and moisture to grow. It is part of the fungus family. Yeast converts carbohydrates or starches to carbon dioxide and alcohol thus creating fermentation. It is used in baking as a leavening or raising agent as well as brewing of alcoholic beverages.

An overgrowth of yeast in the digestive tract is caused by Candida. Candida Albicans are opportunistic pathogens and can cause infections in humans. This overgrowth can cause many symptoms like tiredness and fatigue, recurring genital or urinary tract infections, digestive issues, sinus infections, joint pain, skin and nail fungal infections etc. To clear a candida infection you need to starve the candida by taking away its food which is refined carbohydrates and sugar. Then you need to kill the fungi and eliminate it. Finally you need to re-colonize your digestive tract with pro-biotics etc.

Brewer’s yeast:

This yeast is used in the production of beer and bread. It can also be used as a nutritional supplement because it is a rich source of chromium. It helps maintain normal blood sugar levels, as well as being an excellent source of B-Vitamins. It also acts as a probiotic, so it aids digestion. According to studies done, this yeast does not cause or worsen yeast infections.

Breastfeeding moms can benefit from it because it is high in iron, protein and B-vitamins. It is well known for its ability to increase milk supply. Brewer’s yeast can however cause gas, bloating and headaches for some people. Some even say that it is a cure for insomnia!

Fresh yeast:

This is compressed or cake yeast. It is an active yeast and is sold in tiny cakes in the fridge in some supermarkets. It does not keep well.

Instant yeast:

These are the most commonly used yeasts and are sold in small packages. This comes in dried, granular form that can be added directly to the flour when baking.

Active dry yeast:

This is a product made through specially cultured fresh yeast by being pressed, dried and dehydrated to maintain its strong fermentation ability. The pressed yeast is then extruded into a thin strip or small sphere and then dried.

Active yeast needs to be dissolved in water before using, where as instant yeast can be mixed directly into the dry ingredients. This is dormant and needs to be “proofed” and rehydrated.

These yeasts need starch or molasses to feed on during the production and manufacturing process. Manufacturers then add ammonium sulphate, urea and nitrogen containing chemicals. After sterilisation, this sludge is then granulated and dried. I think you need to make your own conclusion if this sounds healthy!

Wild yeast and starter cultures:

 I’ve heard many stories of families and bakeries that have passed on their sourdough cultures or colonies of yeast, all carefully loved through generations to make their daily bread. Just stone ground flour, salt, water , sourdough culture and time. That is all it is. No preservatives.

Some starters are made with boiled potato water that has been cooled to attract and feed the wild yeast present in the air around us. Some people use the skins of organic grapes or raisins. Other traditional cultures are made with a mixture of flour and water that needs to be fed everyday.

Lactic acid forms through bacteria that is found in fermented foods like yoghurt, kefir, pickles and kimchi. The natural yeast breaks down harmful enzymes in grains, making vitamins and minerals more easily available for digestion. It converts dough into a more nutritious food source that won’t  necessarily cause the same reactive behaviour in your body as “instant” breads would. Less heartburn, less fatigue and less stomach cramps. It satisfies your hunger and keeps you feeling fuller for longer than “normal shop” bread  would.

I read an article about a bakery that bakes sourdough bread using the slow fermentation process. They then sent a bread sample away for testing. Commercial wheat and rye breads had 20 000 small gluten parts per million, and the slowly fermented sourdough cultured bread had less than 80 small gluten parts per million. If you had to compare the two, the fermented bread almost looks gluten free, doesn’t it?

This does not mean consuming sourdough bread for breakfast, lunch and dinner now! But looking at the broader picture, it might just make meal planning a whole lot easier if you can include slowly fermented sourdough bread.

I have personally not had any candida flare ups since making my own breads. With all the good reviews and research that shows better nutrient absorption, improved gut health and better glycaemic index results, it is worth a try. There are many websites explaining how to create a sourdough culture and how to make the bread. If you don’t feel up to the challenge, then stop at Woolworths and try their slowly fermented breads and see how it makes you feel. I’m not guaranteeing preservative free bread though.

Nutritional yeast:

This is one of my favourite ingredients to use in the kitchen! Lovely over popcorn, making “cheese” sauce or to add a parmesan type flavour to dishes without having to add dairy. Another name for nutritional yeast is “nooch” or “yeshi”- an Ethipian name for “a thousand”. It greatly enhances the flavour of especially vegetarian and savoury dishes without adding harmful MSG. It adds fibre, protein, B-vitamins and zinc to your diet.

Nutritional yeast is an inactive yeast and comes in flakes, granules or powder form. This yeast feeds on sugar cane and beet molasses when growing. It is then deactivated and pasteurised during processing. This yeast is anti-viral, anti- bacterial and can boost the immune system.

After having  enjoying bread in Europe and not being left feeling  half paralysed, it got me thinking why many of their breads did not leave me feeling physically terrible. Was it because I was relaxed and my digestive system was happy there? Or was it because of the art of slow fermented dough that was made with love and passion?

Lizelle

Recipes:

Buckwheat flapjacks:

1 Cup buckwheat 

2 Cups water

1 Cup oats

Quarter cup tapioca

Salt

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp xanthan gum

-Soak buckwheat in water in the blender for half an hour. Blend a few times during that time.

-Add the oats and blend. Add more water if it is too thick.

-Add salt, tapioca flour and xanthan gum.

-Blend again until a thick batter forms. Add more water of it is too think.

-Fry spoonfuls in a little coconut oil, flip and flip again if necessary.

*Top with guacamole, baby spinach and roasted peppers for a meal. Be creative!

*Add blueberries to the batter just before frying.

Apple and celery snack: (1 portion)

This snack may sound awful, but it is so satisfying. The crunch from the apple and celery, protein from the pumpkin seeds, and fattiness in the coconut cream is exactly what your body needs mid- morning or mid- afternoon. Even a little saltiness from the celery.

1 Diced green apple

Diced celery (about 15cm piece)

3 Tbsp coconut cream

A few Tbsp ground pumpkin seeds

-Mix everything together and munch away!

Mexican nacho bowl:

This recipe is one of our family’s favourite comforting dishes, and I think it might be hubby’s 

number 1!

1 Red onion diced

Mixed peppers diced

4 Chopped tomatoes

Cooked black beans

Quarter tsp masala

Quarter tsp cumin

Quarter tsp paprika

Fresh thyme

1 Small tomato paste cup

Fresh avo

Little water

Lemon juice

Salted nacho corn chips

-Fry the onion until translucent, add peppers and fry.

-Add spices, fry for 1 minute.

-Add tomatoes, simmer until soft.

-Add beans, tomato paste and a little water.

-Simmer with a lid on for about 10 minutes.

-Add salt to taste.

-Place the warm bean mixture into a breakfast bowl.

-Top with fresh avo and crushed nacho corn chips.

-Drizzle with lemon juice.

Peanut butter chocolate squares:

1 Cup unsalted unsweetened peanut butter

Half to 1 cup desiccated coconut.

1 Slab dark chocolate.

3 Tbsp raw honey

-In a mixing bowl, mix peanut butter with desiccated coconut until a thick consistency.

-Spread onto a small baking sheet that has wax wrap on. About 2 cm thick.

-Melt chocolate and add 1 Tbsp peanut butter to the melted chocolate.

-Pour chocolate over peanut butter “dough”.

-Spread evenly, careful not to mix the layers.

-Freeze, cut into squares.

-Place in a sealed container in the fridge. Defrost 5 minutes before serving.

Mini carrot cake delights:

Our youngest daughter and I would have one of these everyday if we could! She says it tastes a little like fruit cake which she loves and I despise. Try it and see what you think. Don’t be fooled by the small portions, but they are so mourish, and filling.

1 Cup almonds

1 Cup grated carrots

Three quarter cup soaked dates (soaking water removed)

Quarter cup coconut oil slightly melted

Quarter tsp clove powder

Half a tsp nutmeg

1 tsp cinnamon

Quarter cup oats or coconut flour

-Oven 180 degrees Celsius.

-Spray a silicone muffin pan.

-Add the nuts to the food processor and grind until fine.

-Add the rest of the ingredients to the food processor and mix until a “dough” comes together.

-Add a quarter cup oats or coconut flour to the mixture to absorb some of the moisture.

-Divide into 6 silicone cups. It will only be about 3cm high.

-Bake for 20 minutes or until the edges turn golden and crispy.

-Cool completely BEFORE removing it from the silicone cups by slightly pushing the silicone cup upwards from the bottom.

*If you don’t have a silicone cupcake mould, then lift carefully out of a normal cupcake pan.

-Serve dolloped with coconut cream or whipped cream.

                                                                

Quantum Commanding

Health Amplified

Quantum Commanding

Sounds like a science fiction movie, right? When I first heard these words, I imagined a captain on a spaceship giving orders!

A very good friend of mine recently introduced me to Quantum Commanding. Is it by chance that it came across my path during this time of “lockdown”, viruses and a possible bio-weapon? Or is it God releasing a secret that can bring victory to His children in the middle of the storm?

Quantum Commanding is a method of treatment that has been established by Natalie Morris. After years of studying quantum physics and being passionate about health and nutrition, especially for her family, she was led to develop Quantum Commanding. Let’s start at the beginning.

What is quantum?

The word “quantum” means the smallest possible amount. With Quantum Commanding, you work on the tiniest, smallest pieces in the body. The pieces that are worked on during a treatment are called pathogens. These are bacteria, viruses or other micro organisms that can cause sickness, disease and ailments and that were not created to be in the body.

 Infection is caused by pathogens and is then known as mycoplasma pathogens. This mycoplasma is bacteria that does not have a cell wall. They are very small compared to other bacteria and can infect different parts of the body. Pathogenic mycoplasma is the Greek word for fungus or something moulded.

Mycoplasma causes:

·      Oxidative damage to the cells in our body.

·      Free radical damage, because they are scavengers.

·      It breaks down the fatty acids in the membrane that must protect our cells.

·      Cross linkage of cytoplasmic and membrane components occur.

·      Membranes therefore become leaky.

·      The pathogen oozes through the host cell membrane.

·      These mycoplasmas benefit from the nutrients in our cells.

Now, you also get bio-weapon pathogens. These are basically developed and used to create biological warfare or germ warfare. It makes use of biological toxins or infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, insects or fungi. It is used with the intent to kill or incapacitate humans, animals or plants as an act of war. So, bio-weapon pathogens are engineered viruses.

Vaccinations are also pathogenic, because small amounts of the disease are injected into the human body. This is done in an attempt for the body to build up antibodies against the virus or bacteria.

The only thing is, that pathogenic mycoplasmas are not there to help you. Pathogens latch onto healthy cells, DNA etc. and try and destroy it, leading to disease.

Where am I going with this? The body cannot lie. If you have underlying stress, anxiety and fear, your body will manifest it in one way or another. Your hair might start falling out, you might get skin breakouts, have back problems or have a low libido.

If you have a bad infection in your body, you might get a fever and sore aching muscles.

So, what if many diseases, intolerances and unhealthy symptoms in your body are indications of hidden mycoplasmic pathogens and not just a sign of age, gender, inheritance or generational curses? Yes, these do play a huge role and need to be dealt with. But if you have unanswered questions after you have done and prayed everything, then this is definitely something to look at.

Quantum Commanding is asking the body questions by taking up your God given authority and zoning in on quantum level. Muscle testing is then used to access data in the body, because the body cannot lie. If there is an underlying problem in a specific area, then the motor neurons and frequency won’t work optimally. If all is well, then the impulses will be strong.

So, a series of health-related questions can be answered to establish specific weak areas in the body that have been attacked by pathogens, that have left the body with infection or pathogenic mycoplasmas.

Then you take up your authority in Christ to rule and reign and command certain areas in the body to release the pathogenic mycoplasma or pathogens that came in through toxins, chemical substances, vaccinations etc. This step is called quantum release.

When your body starts releasing these damaging substances, then healing can begin. Pathogenic activity then stops. Ailments, diseases and sickness will gradually start to diminish because the culprit is no longer in the body that created the havoc.

We as a family have been taking up our authority over our bodies and commanded mycoplasmic pathogens to release in specific areas and then asked God to bring healing in that area. Write down health issues that keep on manifesting and stealing your health and joy. This might be a solution to look into when you’ve tried every route and prayer. Have a look at Natalie Morris’s website quantumcommand.net for further information etc.

I think it is time to take up our God given authority and start ruling. We need to bring healing and restoration so that each of us can reach our full potential through Christ. Looking forward to sharing our results and testimonies with you soon!

Lizelle

Recipe:

Chocolate protein balls:

1 Cup ground pumpkin seeds

1 Cup ground sunflower seeds

2 or 3 Tbsp melted coconut oil

4 Heaped tsp cocoa powder

1 Cup soaked dates (Keep 1 Tbsp soaking water)

-Place all the ingredients in the food processor.

-Process until it starts to come together.

-Scrape down sides, add 1 Tbsp soaking water, process.

-Shape into small balls, roll in desiccated coconut or dust with cocoa powder.

-Place in an airtight container and into the fridge.

-

Exotic ingredients

HEALTH AMPLIFIED

Exotic ingredients:

It feels like the world is getting smaller and smaller with more international ingredients being available to us. Only a few years ago, things like dragon fruit, chia seeds and miso paste would have been given a lifted brow. I still see these food items as exotic, even though it is more readily available to us now.

I’m not sure if I’ve told you this story before. When we were on vacation by the ocean when I was small, my mom showed me a bread tree. This is a cycad plant not to be confused with a bread fruit tree. I still remember wondering why it was called a bread tree, and secretly looked for the loaf of bread somewhere in between the leaves. I mean it is called a “bread tree”! I’m sure that some of you feel that way when you hear of some of the exotic ingredients available to us these days…

 We were recently given a dragon fruit! What an experience! It is an exotic fruit from South East Asia and is part of the cactus family. This is not usually a fruit that you go out to buy, mainly because it is so expensive in our area. This fruit can be classified as a super food, due to its many nutritional benefits. With its high vit. C content, it is sure to be an immune booster. It is loaded with anti oxidants, fibre which aids digestion, anti aging benefits and blood stabilising qualities. It has a slightly sweet, sometimes more sour taste, with small black pips that remind you of a kiwi fruit. The flesh can be bright pink purple, sometimes white, with the skin almost reminding you of a dragon’s scales.

 I think the taste is vary personalised, with people’s comments ranging from tasting between a kiwi and beetroot, tastes like nail polish remover and “cosmetically” sweet… This fruit is definitely visually enticing, but personally, the taste is a bit of a let down after its robust, exotic appeal.

Chia seeds are one of my favourite exotic super food items. It is a small blackish grey seed cultivated in North and South America. When immersed in a liquid, it swells and changes the liquid into a gellish substance. It is high in protein, fibre, manganese, calcium and omega 3 fatty acids.

This is an excellent seed for digestive health, and building stronger bones due to the high calcium content. The high anti oxidant level also helps for glowing skin. The high amount of protein helps to regulate blood sugar levels, and boosts energy levels. The soaked seeds taste flavourless to me, but I love the texture of the soaked seeds. Add it to gluten free seed breads, waffle recipes, make chia yoghurt, desserts and seed bars. (See the gluten free seed bread recipe and chia waffle recipe below.)

The next exotic food that we have been using is Miso paste. We once watched a fascinating documentary on the art of Japanese Miso making, not once thinking that it might be available to us locally. The high intensity umami flavour adds depth to almost any savoury dish. Miso paste is a Japanese ingredient that has been used for centuries. It is fermented soya beans, salt and a bacteria that are mixed with either rice or barley. You get red or white Miso paste. Red has a more intense flavour because it has been fermented for longer, and sometimes has added barley. White Miso has a shorter fermentation period with added rice.

Miso helps to fight fatigue and inflammation. It aids digestion because of all the beneficial bacteria, which makes it an excellent probiotic. Make your own Miso broths by adding 1 or 2 tsp. paste into a mug of boiling water. Enjoy on its own in between meals or simmer with added coloured vegetables, mushrooms and spinach for a more substantial meal. The Japanese add in seaweed. This broth boosts vitality and is a wonderful “pick me upper”  mid afternoon.

It is high in protein, manganese and vit. K. A little goes a long way because of its intense flavour and saltiness. Start by adding half a tsp to your dishes or enjoy as a broth. Remember that it contains beneficial bacteria for your gut, so it may cause bloating or a little indigestion at the beginning. We buy our Miso paste at Woolworths.

So whether you are looking for a loaf of bread in a bread tree, or a dragon’s scales on your dragon fruit, make sure to scout the shelves for your next exotic ingredient!

Lizelle

RECIPES:

Chia waffles (by Ella Leche – “Cut the sugar”)

This is a waffle recipe, but this has become our “toasted bread” recipe. I then leave out the sweetener. I have added mashed banana and cinnamon to the recipe before, which we loved. We top our “toast” with crunchy peanut butter and raw honey.

2 or 3 Tbsp chia seeds

6 or 7 Tbsp water

1 Cup oat flour

Half a cup sorghum flour (I use Maltabella)

Quarter cup potato starch (I use Tapioca instead)

Half tsp baking powder

1 Cup non-dairy milk

2 Tbsp oil or melted coconut oil

2 Tbsp sweetener (optional)

-Mix chia seeds in a small bowl with the water. Let sit for 5-10 min. Mix after 5 min.

-In a large bowl, whisk flours, starch and baking powder.

-Add milk, oil, sweetener and chia seed mixture, combine well.

-Rest mixture about 15 min. Mix well before baking.

-Heat a waffle iron and brush with oil or Spray and Cook.

-Drop spoonfuls of batter onto waffle iron and bake.

-Top with your favourite waffle topping, or whipped coconut cream and stewed berries.

(I’ve even made these in our snackwhich machine.)

Super seed bread loaf. (“Deliciously Ella”)

This bread is really high in protein which makes it filling. Our kids don’t like the bread to be honest, and my husband has tried his best to enjoy it! So when I do make it, I cut thin slices when cooled, and then freeze it in plastic wrap and place it into a sealed container. I remove individual slices and pop it into the toaster until crisp around the edges. Enjoy spreaded with coconut oil, raw honey and cinnamon as a treat, or hummus and roasted cherry tomatoes.

2 Cups cold water

1 and a half cups pumpkin seeds

1 Cup buckwheat flour or brown rice flour.

1 Cup almonds.

Half a cup sunflower seeds.

3 Heaped Tbsp psyllium husk

2 Tbsp chia seeds.

2 Tbsp mixed herbs (optional)

Salt to taste (and pepper optional)

-Place almonds and 1 cup of the pumpkin seeds in a food processor until a smooth flour forms.

-Transfer flour to a mixing bowl. Stir in the rest of the ingredients. Remember to add the half cup pumpkin seeds to the mixture.

-Gradually add water, let sit for 45 min to 1 hr.

-When mixture is firm, grease a small loaf tin.

-Heat oven to 180 degrees Celsius.

-Press mixture into the loaf tin using a spatula or back of a spoon.

-Bake 40 min-1 hour, until slightly brown on top.

-Check your bread with a skewer or small tooth pick, it must come out clean.

-Cool down before slicing.

Spinal treatment

Health Amplified

When I first heard of a spinal treatment, I was a bit sceptical. I’m a firm believer that plants and plant oils have healing properties. But to apply 3 different oils in layers and expect specific results, almost sounded too good to be true.

You see, nerves branch out from the spinal column throughout your body. The same as where nerves come together underneath the feet. So certain areas can be targeted in your body by stimulating specific areas in your feet. You are actually just touching the nerves that run to specific organs or areas. Now add an essential oil with specific benefits, and it is medicine that gets transferred to that area.

Nerves can have blockages caused by chemicals, toxins and heavy metals etc. If your nerves are “blocked”, and information gets scrambled, then how is it supposed to function optimally?

Now the spinal treatment is done by applying 3 layers of essential oils mixed into a carrier oil.

The first oil that you apply, is from the group of oils called a Phenol. This is a cleansing oil. You need to clean out or help the body to remove unwanted substances that are stuck in the cell receptor sights. This is usually a spicy or irritating oil eg. Cinnamon oil.

The second layer of oil that you apply along your spine, is from the Sesquirterpene group of essential oils. This is the “deprogramming” stage. Scrambled or miswritten information gets deprogrammed. It is also an oil that helps to repair damaged cell receptor sights done by chemicals or heavy metals. Chemical substances don't “fit” because they don’t have the same structure, thus causing mild to severe damage. Examples of oils from this category are myrrh and lavender oils.

The third and final layer is for reprogramming. This is from the Monoterpene group. After the cell receptor sights have been cleansed and deprogrammed, it is time to reprogramme. This group of oils also tend to inhibit accumulation of toxins, and helps discharge existing toxins from the liver and kidneys. These are mostly citrus, pine and Frankincense oils.

So in short;

Step 1: Cleansing

             eg. Cinnamon oil blend

Step 2: Deprogramming and repair/rebuild

            eg. Myrrh oil blend

Step 3: Reprogramming

            eg. Frankincense oil blend

Method:

Make sure that you have a good quality essential oil. Have someone apply 1-3 blended drops of Step 1 along your spine. The area covered should be from the base of your neck down to your coccyx. Then you repeat the process with a step 2 oil. Take in mind that it is not a massage, but an application done with gentle yet firm strokes. Then you apply the 3^rd and final oil blend.

If you don’t have someone to help you with the application, then you can do the treatment by applying the oils in different layers underneath the feet.

This spinal treatment can be done once a week for a few months to cleanse, repair and reprogramme nerves etc. Remember that the nerves are there to bring communication between different areas in your body. If there are blockages, then messages can be delayed or misinterpreted. If you have an illness or serious condition, this process can be repeated every 3 days for the first 2 or 3 weeks. Then change it to once a week. Make sure to inhale some of the oil that is left over on your hands, as this helps with the healing process in your body.

You will experience detoxifying symptoms within the first few applications. Make sure to rest, drink enough water and make healthy food choices.

This treatment can benefits anyone, because everyone needs proper cell and nerve communication in their bodies. It will help your body to reset itself, combatting sickness, disease, inflammation, digestive issues, tiredness and sluggishness.

I think it is time to speed up the “internet signals” in our bodies and improve delayed communication, so that we can all get our work done!

Lizelle

Recipe:

Dark chocolate hazelnut “fudge”

300g hazelnuts

Three quarter cup cocao powder (organic if possible)

1 cup ground sunflower seeds

1tsp cinnamon powder

2 cups dates (soaked in warm water for 30 min)

Half a cup melted coconut oil

-Roast hazelnuts around 20 min at 160 degrees Celsius.

-Remove skins by rubbing nuts together in a clean dish towel.

-Place nuts in a food processor, grind until a fine paste.

-Add seeds, soaked dates(removed from water), cinnamon and cocao.

-Switch food processor on until ingredients are well mixed and dates are fine. Scrape down sides.

-Add melted coconut oil. Mix until a dough forms.

-Press flat in a sprayed cookie pan, 1cm thick.

-Place in the freezer until solid. Cut into squares before it is too hard.

-Once solid, transfer to the fridge. Keep in a airtight container.

Varicose veins

Health Amplified

I was recently bitten by a mosquito, right on top of a varicose vein. Do you have any idea how itchy that was? And I have to mention that it was one of those mosquito's with the see through wings with black spots on. I raced to the bathroom cupboard to grab the tea tree oil. After I applied it I realised that I grabbed the wrong bottle! I accidentally applied neat geranium oil onto my leg, so I quickly mixed some coconut oil over it to dilute it in a carrier oil.

The itch went away quite quickly. But that was not the only thing that went away. I soon realised that I had no pain in my leg, the veins weren't swollen anymore, and my leg felt lighter. I felt quite content. You see, I developed varicose veins in my one leg after my pregnancies. It gets worse when it is hot, when standing for too long, when wearing tight fitting clothing, or have my period. My leg sometimes gets so sore from the swollen veins during my period, that I have to sit with my leg raised. It sometimes gets really itchy as well.

I have tried remedies and lotions, prayer, capsules and exercise, with little or no improvement. I'm not the one to choose the surgical or needle route, so have learnt to accept it and dress accordingly.

Both my grandmothers and mother had it, and both even went for surgery and special procedures. But it came back in the end. I was secretly hoping and praying that I won't inherit it. Until we had our first baby and it started appearing on my one leg...

What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are twisted, swollen veins that you can see under the skin. They usually occur in the legs, but can also develop in other parts of the body. Your veins have one way valves that help keep blood flowing towards your heart. If the valves are weak or damaged, blood can back up and pool in the veins. This causes the veins to swell, which can lead to varicose veins.

After learning about prayers and cutting off hereditary illness and diseases, and stopping curses from one generation to the next, I felt determined to win this thing. God can make anything new, and I am holding onto that, because He is my Healer.

I've known geranium essential oil as an anti ageing oil and hormone balancer, but haven't quite figured out if I did have a specific need for it. Until I accidentally, or incidently discovered how brilliant it works for varicose veins.

I apply 1 drop on my affected leg, mixed into a little coconut oil, and rub it into my leg in the morning. This oil then:

• Fights inflammation
•  Improves blood circulation
• Eases muscle aches and pains
• Balances hormones
• Nerve pain fighter and pain killer
• Anti ageing (bonus benefit!)

My veins feel and look better than in years, and I have found new hope in using my 1 drop geranium oil a day!

I have also learnt through pastor Henry Wright, in his book, "A more excellent way", that there was a connection between my varicose leg pain and Sciatica. I always thought that the pain was only directly linked to the swollen, weakened veins, and not to a possible painful nerve.

The sciatic nerve is the longest and largest nerve in your body, and starts at your sacrum. It then follows a path through the buttocks, and then down the thigh and lower leg. It finally ends in the foot.

Sciatica is inflammation of the sciatic nerve that comes from the lower back and runs down the leg. This condition accounts for 50 % of lower back pain. A very interesting observation that pastor Henry made, was that most of his patients with sciatica and degenerative disc disease conditions, had a history of ancestral addictive profiles. Somewhere in the family history, someone opened a door to the enemy through drug and alcohol addiction. This basically puts a curse of back problems on a family, because certain people did not care about the welfare of others. Read Habakkuk 2:15,16 for confirmation on this.

The first place that pastor Henry looked at when ministering to someone with degenerative disc disease, apart from injury, was a family's history profile of drugs and addiction. This means that most people with back problems could possibly have a spiritual curse that is causing their back pain. This includes scoliosis.

After repentance on behalf of my ancestors and prayer for the choices that they've made, I could deal with the curse. Not knowing that my sciatic nerve was also contributing to the pain where the varicose veins are, I saw dramatic improvement on the pain scale after I dealt with this thing.

There are other factors like weight gain that can also influence varicose veins. But today I am sharing my story with you. I don't think it was by accident that I grabbed the geranium oil instead of the tea tree oil. I truly believe that it was God's hand leading me.

Lizelle

Recipes:

Creamy spinach and cashew pasta

1 Packet raw baby spinach
1 Packet raw cashews ( soaked in warm water for half an hour)
Little water for blending
Chicken seasoning by "natural" (Dischem )
Squeeze lemon juice
Black pepper
Corn pasta/brown rice pasta/ Gluten free pasta

-Cook pasta according to package instructions.
-Blend the rest of the ingredients together until smooth and creamy, or place in a food processor.
-Taste and adjust seasoning.
-Serve mixed into cooked pasta. Add some black pepper, salt and more lemon juice.

"Melktert" pap

This recipe was invented after I ran out of cinnamon powder one morning. It was such a hit with the family, that I make it more often now!

Leftover cooked brown rice  (roughly equal quantity to the oats)
Raw oats (roughly equal quantity to the rice)
Handful of chopped dates
Pinch salt
Few pinches nutmeg to taste
Warm water
Dairy free milk

-Blend everything together until smooth and creamy.
-Place on the stove and simmer until creamy.
-Add more warm water if necessary.
-Taste, add more sweetener or nutmeg.
-Serve with dairy free milk. (I usually mix in a bit more milk that I would normally add, to make it more creamy and increase the "melktert" taste.)

Back to reality.

HEALTH AMPLIFIED

BACK TO REALITY

Welcome back to my blog!

As we have just switched over into second gear for the year, with adults being back at work and children going back to school, we can now start thinking about our health.

Some of you might be feeling exhausted, sluggish and emotional, nevermind many of you commenting that you feel like a beached whale... This is because you have taken time out from routines, healthy eating and good sleeping patterns.

I'm not in the condemning business, but rather want to encourage you to make small, positive changes along the way. Establish a routine again, go to bed and wake up at decent times. Cut out junk food where you can and re introduce more fresh fruit and vegetables, lentils, beans, ancient grains and smoothies. (See recipe for tomato and lentil curry below.)

Cut back on your meat intake, and opt for a few vegetarian meals per week. Make a point of drinking more water again. You can flavour it with litchis, apples, cucumber, mint,ginger, lemon or berries.

Focus on learning to love and accept yourself again, in spite of how you feel or look in the mirror. Spend a few extra minutes a day applying some make up, doing your hair and putting on some special earrings. (Even if it feels like it is only meant for a Sunday!)

Invest in a product that you really love, that makes you feel beautiful and loved. My all time favourite product is from the "Eli and you" product range. It is a luxurious body oil that smells heavenly. Filled with tantalising essential oils that nurture and soothe your senses. I apply it directly after a shower, or mix it into my body lotion when the temperature is too hot and humid. There is no need to apply a perfume, because the essential oils linger.

"Eli and you" SPF 40 sunscreen is also high on our family's product list. This natural sunscreen contains zinc oxide, carrot seed oil and coconut oil as its sun protection ingredients. It then also contains other high end ingredients that nourish and soothe even the most sensitive skins against harmful rays and free radical activity. It does contain beeswax and a few other waxes which makes it a waterproof sunscreen, and a little goes a long way with this product. It does not contain harmful chemicals, colourants or perfume. So don't expect to smell like a tropical island!

"Eli and you" also have a natural liquid soap to use in the bath, shower or basin. It does not strip your skin or remove the natural acid mantle that is suppose to protect your skin from harmful organisms. With a lovely scent of rose geranium and lavender essential oils, it is a pleasure to wash hands a few times a day.

Have a look at their website www.eliandyou.co.za to find the "beloved body oil", and their other amazing products. The company is based in George, South Africa.

Another family favourite treat is the individually packet nut butter sachets. It is a guilt free, satisfying, rich treat. It is the same price as a chocolate, so no excuses that it is too expensive! Have a look at Checkers where the peanut butters are stocked.

If you are short on time in the mornings, or have to have cereal, then try Woolworths's new power grain cereal. This oats and ancient grain cereal will have you going back for seconds. It contains oats, quinoa, millet, a little honey and salt. At R40,00 a box, it is definately a good investment. This has become our Sunday night dinner!

The last product that I am discussing today, is an Indian snack delight, Kara Nichha's "Sev and Nuts". It is a high protein chip that looks like fine, dried noodles, and comes in small packets. It contains pea flour, peanuts and salt. It does contain a colourant though. We found it at Checkers in the chip isle at a very low price. There are also flavoured ones available, which is not always the best.

Some people are using this time to fast and pray in order to get direction and wisdom from God for the year. This indirectly also get's your body back into shape. Please see my blog titled "Fasting" if you would like to read more on this topic.

So that wraps up my first blog for the year. Wrap yourselves with love and nurturing this season, enjoy a healthy cereal any time of the day, or enjoy a packet of nut butter or "Sev and Nuts" with your feet up after a long day!

Lizelle

Recipes:

Tomato and lentil curry

8 Tomatoes chopped/ 2 cans chopped tomatoes
Half a packet brown lentils
Handful of celery leaves chopped
2 Red onions
3 Carrots chopped
Olive oil for frying
 3 tsp Cape Malay curry powder (Exotic Spices)
Quarter cup coconut cream

-Cook lentils according to packet instructions.
-Gently fry onions until translucent.
-Add celery leaves and curry powder. Fry gently.
-Add tomatoes and simmer until soft.
-Add carrots and simmer with the lid on.
-Add cooked lentils to tomato mixture, let it simmer.
-Once done, mix in the coconut cream and remove from the heat.
-Or omit stirring in the coconut cream and serve every plate of lentil curry with a dollop of coconut cream
* This curry tastes better the next day!

Mango ice lollies

Chopped fresh mangoes
A little Coconut cream or coconut milk
Half a tsp Cinnamon

-Blend everything together until smooth.
-Pour into ice lolly moulds
-Enjoy when frozen.

Bringing back the fun factor

HEALTH AMPLIFIED

BRINGING BACK THE FUN FACTOR

I've recently taken up hula hooping! Bringing back joy into your life, having fun where you can, especially in a world that has become so serious with "life" and responsibilities. Yes, we are all doing "life" everyday, but I think that word can be quite contradictory! How many of us are really living life instead of dragging through it everyday? Life and joy in abundance is what I'm talking about.

Hula hooping is a fun way to get some exercise, spend some time with the kids (in laughter!), and just connecting with the child in you again. I dare you to take up a Holiday Hula Challenge! Go out and buy yourself a hula hoop today. Make sure that it is big enough, otherwise not even momentum will help. It should at least come up to the top of your thigh, or to just below your belly button. That is if you had to measure it from the floor up. Have a look at sports shops or try toy shops, they sometimes have the bigger ones.

The lightweight plastic hoops are a bit more tricky to keep up, while a heavier one will provide more momentum. I only found a lightweight plastic one, but soon realised that it is easier if you use two plastic ones at the same time (and look more like a pro...!) You can even tape two together. Some people apply tape around the hoop to provide more grip to your clothing instead of slipping off with just the plastic. 

You need to warm up your muscles a little before you start attempting hula hooping. Remember that your last time was probably when you were a kid. Do some gentle stretching of the torso, extending arms, swaying your hips a bit. We don't want to pull a muscle that first try and get put off hooping.

So where did it all begin? The modern hula hoop was invented in 1958 by Arthur K. "Spud" Melin and Richard Knerr. Children around the world have played with hoops throughout history. But the hoop is an ancient invention. Ancient Greeks often used hooping as a form of exercise. Older hoops were made with metal, bamboo, wood, grasses and even vines. In the early 1800's, British sailors witnessed hula dancing in the Hawaiian Islands. Hula dancing and hooping motions looked very similar. That is how the name "hula hoop" came together, and the name stuck.

Benefits of hula hooping:

• Core strengthening
• Toning muscles
• Sculpting the waist 
• Aerobic workout (that is if you manage to keep the hula hoop up for longer than 3 seconds!)
• Double joy! (Doing something fun and childlike, as well as releasing serotonin, the "feel good" hormone.)
• Affordable
• You can exercise and have fun with the kids at the same time.

There are many hula hoop world records out there; hooping with the most hoops, for the longest time, the largest hula hoop, hula hoop tricks etc. Have a look at some of the Youtube exercise clips online. Get your kids to join in on this. You'll be amazed at how popular it actually is!

 So there is no excuse for not exercising and getting your muscles moving this holiday. Take up my Holiday Hula Challenge, and have fun while doing it!

Happy holidays!

Lizelle