Sunday, March 22, 2009

DHEA 7-Keto

Perhaps the most fundamental difference between DHEA and 7 Keto DHEA is that 7 Keto DHEA is already converted DHEA, thus it will NOT dangerously spike estrogen and testosterone as does old fashioned DHEA. In fact, studies have shown that "Old Fashioned" DHEA can raise blood levels of testosterone by much as 10 times above normal.Since 7-Keto does not convert into testosterone or estrogens, it is a one-hundred percent safe alternative to its parent compound. (Elevated testosterone can put beards on women's faces or cultivate prostate cancer in men. Moreover, high levels of testosterone may convert into estrogen in men. Women taking regular DHEA should be especially aware of the possibility of clitoral enlargement, and voice lowering).7 Keto is non-toxic. Liver and blood hormone levels have shown it to be "Completely innocuous," says Henry Lardy, Chairman Emeritus of the Enzyme Institute at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. "No-one has found any adverse side effects." 7 Keto DHEA has been proven to promote greater weight loss than DHEA. One clinical trial published in the Journal of Exercise Physiology Online looked at 30 obese people who took a placebo or 7-KETO, a commercial version of 7 Keto that's sold as a food supplement. Both groups took three one-hour sessions of aerobic and anaerobic exercise per week. At the end of the eight-week study, the 7-KETO group had lost 1.8 percent of body fat, compared to 0.57 percent among the placebo exercisers. Their overall weight loss was 2.88 kilos, about three times the loss among those who took the placebo. There are signs that 7 Keto DHEA helps the body loose weight by mimicking thyroid hormones which cause the body to make more heat, thus burning more calories without really doing anything. Quite simply this means that by increasing thyroid enzymes it is a thermogenic. 7 Keto lends greater support to the immune system by increasing IL-2 production in human lymphocytes. IL-2 is the key cytokine regulator of T-helper cells which helps activate the immune system against invading pathogens. 7 Keto helps to reduce cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone associated with stress as well as chronic mood disorders and aging. 7-Keto DHEA is more potent than DHEA. Anyone suffering any serious disease or hormonal condition should only use DHEA under competent medical supervision. On the other hand, 7 Keto may be effective at doses as low as 5-10 mg/per day with 25-50 mgs per day being adequate for use in disease treatment under medical supervision. Sources: Alternative Medicine Advisor, August 1999.

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Self Esteem Issues

I know that once in a while every woman feels big, old, ugly, like your ass is sagging so much it touches the ground. And your breasts are sitting on your tummy.



I'm noticing every wrinkle. My skin just looks like an old ladies. I'm 40. When did that happen? Why don't I feel like I'm 40. Every thing has changed so quickly. Just 5 years ago I did not look old. But now I'm starting to notice all the little things. The more I notice the worse my self esteem gets. So, how do I grow old gracefully? How do I embrace my 40's. And how in the hell do I enjoy them when I feel so bad about myself? Why can't I look like the 40 year olds on TV? You know the sexy bitches that look 20, why can't that be me?



I guess if I would work out like the "sexy bitches" on TV, I could look a lot better. I know they work their asses off (pun intended). Every time I say I'm going to diet, I eat like I'm starving to death. If I'm not dieting then I don't eat enough calories. My mind is always f'ing with me. I'm my own worst enemy. My BMI is only 22 but I feel so heavy. I weighted 99 pounds until I was 20. I understand as I get older I will not be able to stay that size but I don't like this size. I know in reality I'm not over weight but in my mind I am.



It's not just my looks that are suffering in my minds eye. It's everything. I don't seem to feel comfortable with anything. There was a time I had faith in myself, now I don't. I was full of everything I just knew I could do and now I'm full of doubt. Does this come with age? I thought I would only improve with age and experience. I've become a self doubting, self critical and a self hater.



How in the hell do I get out of this? How do I feel like the sexy bitch again?

Friday, March 13, 2009

Herbs to help Fertiltiy

Here is information I have copied from a lot of research, other people and friends. What may work for one, may not work for another. Please do your own research to be sure you are taking the herbs your body needs.

Vitamin A - is an antioxidant that helps prevent free-radical damage to cell mitochondria.

Angelica (Dang Gui) - can help to regulate the menstrual flow (scanty flow) and aids in the lining of the uterus. Can also help to lower FSH.

Alpha-linolenic acid - is important for ovulation. Aids in the egg release (from the follicle) and allowing the development of the corpus luteum that is responsible for progrestrone production.

Alfalfa - Aids in pituitary problems. This works well with fertility drugs.
B6 - see Lecithin.

Baby aspirin - used after ovulation to help in preventing miscarriage. Most often recommended after IUI/IVF.

Bee pollen - Taken with Royal Jelly can possibly improve or eliminate menstrual problems. Is rich in vitamins, minerals, nucleic acids, and steroid hormones. Strengthens the pituitary gland.

Beechwood - Used often while taking Clomid or Serophene. Beechwood aids in building cervical mucus and is an alternative to Robitussin (plain ONLY). It can be found in most health food stores.

Black Cohosh - A natural supplier of estrogen. Black Cohosh should ONLY be taken from menstruation to ovulation. When used other than specifically for fertility can lead to early miscarriage.

Blessed Thistle - is used when Black Cohosh isn’t tolerated.

Blue-green algae - Contains chlorophyll, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Strengthens pituitary gland. There are two types—Chlorella (from freshwater) and Spirulina (from saltwater)

Vitamin C - is an antioxidant that helps prevent free-radical damage to cell mitochondria.

Camp Bark - is considered a reproductive tonic. Take from menstruation to ovulation.

Catnip - Elevates the mood. Can help prevent miscarriages and morning sickness.

Cayenne - Increases the effectiveness of other herbs. Taken from menstruation to ovulation.

Chaste Tree (aka Vitex) - Inhibits FSH & can make hormones more subdued. Regulates estrogen and progesterone. Great to take a few months before doing an FSH level test or CCT to help lower the results of FSH levels. **Note** Works against Maca, Damiana, and infertility drugs including clomid!

Coenzyme Q-10 (COQ-10) - Helps support and improve mitochondrial (powerhouse of cells) function. During aging, the mitochondrial DNA is damaged by free radicals in our system contributing to poor egg quality occurring with aging.

Damiana - Enhances FSH & LH. A natural aphrodisiac.

DHEA - is a hormone building block that decreases with aging. It can be used in place of growth hormone to help the ovaries respond. A study reported that taking 80 milligrams per day for 2 months improved response to gonadotropic drugs.**Note** don’t take for long periods of time. Women with elevated male hormones should not take DHEA.

Dong Quai - Is a hormone regulator and uterine tonic. It is known as the female hormone regulator. Dong quai should be taken in the first half of the cycle from menstruation to ovulation. **Note** Do not take during pregnancy

Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) - is a uterine toner and helps to increase the fertile quality cervical fluid. Regulates menstrual flow (scanty, dark flow) and aids in the lining of the uterus. It neutralizes over-acidity in the body. EPO should be taken the first half of the cycle - from mensturation to ovulation.

Vitamin E - is an antioxidant that helps prevent free radical damage to mitochondria (in cells). This is very important if you wish to conceive.

Eskimo 3 - Contaminant free fish oil to assist with EWCM production.

False Unicorn Root (Helonias) - Lowers estrogen. Tones & strengthens the muscles of the uterus. Prevents miscarriage (especially when used with Lobelia). Used for some types of complications of pregnancy. Can possibly help to lower FSH.

Folic acid - important for cell division. It also can help prevent spinal bifida. Active ingredient in most prenatal vitamins.

Gingko - Improves blood flow to the brain & pituitary gland.

Ginseng - Contains steroids similar to estrogen and progesterone. Aids in reducing stress. Can possibly help lower FSH. Regulates male hormones especially when taken with Sarsaparilla. Take from menstruation to ovulation.

Hawthorn - Can help prevent miscarriages.

Hops - Has estrogenic effects. Can have a calming effect. **Note**Also can slow down sex drive.

Kelp - Great for the pituitary glands. Helps lower prolactin levels.

Lady´s Mantle - considered a reproductuve tonic. Take from menstruation to ovulation.

L'arginine - Improves bloodflow to the pelvic organs. In a study, this amino acid was found to increase ovarian response, endometrail receptivity, and pregnancy rates in IVF patients who took 16 grams of L-arginine by increasing blood flow to the ovaries. It not recommended to take that much though.

Lecithin - B6. For pituitary gland. It is known for helping to normalize hormone levels which in turn helps to lengthen the luteal phase and to minimize PMS and morning sickness.

Licorice Root - Contains Estroil, an estrogen. Depresses the pituitary gland. Helps stabilize blood sugar levels. Take from menstruation to ovulation **Note** shouldn’t be taken for long periods of time or in large doses. Works against fertility drugs.

Lobelia - Helps to prevent miscarriage. Works great with False Unicorn Root.

Loveage - is considered a general reproductive tonic. Take from menstruation to ovulation.

Maca - Can enhance FSH, LH, and reduce stress.

Magnesium - Low magnesium levels are associated with low progesterone. Can lower the risk of premature birth, may reduce preclampsia, cerebral palsy and mental retardation.

Motherwort - considered a reproductive tonic. Take from menstruation to ovulation.

Nettle - is considered a reproductive tonic. Take from menstruation to ovulation.

PABA (Para-aminobenzoic acid) - a B vitamin which stimulates the pituitary gland and sometimes restores fertility to a woman. PABA affects the formation of red blood cells, and stimulates the production of folic acid in the intestines. Supplements of 300 to 400 milligrams daily has been found to prevent and correct aspects of some autoimmune conditions including infertility.

Pantothenic acid - Is a B5 vitamin. Synthesizes hormones and cholesterol. Improves the body's resistance to stress. Deficiencies can cause infertility, though being deficient is rare.

Pycnogenol (or oligomeric proanthocyanidins) - is a super-antioxidant that helps prevent free-radical damage to cell mitochondria.

Red Clover - Used to aid fertility. Take from menstruation to ovulation.

Red Raspberry leaves - Strengthens the uterus and entire reproductive system. Can help prevent miscarriage.

Royal jelly - with Bee Pollen can improve or eliminate menstrual problems. Contains high amounts of amino acids, vitamins, and enzymes. Considered to be the queen bee's equivalent of fertility drugs.

Sarsaparilla - Contains both male and female hormones. For men, it increases sperm count especially when taken with Ginseng. For women, it balances female hormones, strengthens the pituitary gland and enhances both FSH & LH. Contains progesterone.

Saw Palmetto - may be beneficial for infertility, menstrual disorders, ovarian dysfunction, lactation, thyroid deficiencies, and painful menstrual periods. This herb is mainly used for male problems and have only found it to “may be” work for female problems.

Selenium - an antioxidant that helps prevent free-radical damage to cell mitochondria. A deficiency of selenium can lead to infertility in women.

Valerian root - basically does the same thing as wheatgrass. Very relaxing to the whole body.

Vitex - See Chaste Tree

Wheatgrass (or Barley Grass) - helps the cervical mucus and uterus have the right ph balance needed for conception and implantation. Can help restore hormonal functioning.

White Peony (Bai Shao) - Can help to regulate menstrual flow (scanty flow) and aid in the lining of the uterus.

Wild Yam - Used to Increase progesterone. Can help prevent miscarriage.

Wobenzyme - Used by women that have miscarriages caused by immune issues. Contains Rutin.

Zinc - is an antioxidant that helps prevent free-radical damage to cell mitochondria

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

40 Points about Wheatgrass and its Nutritional Values

What's so great about wheatgrass?
40 Points about Wheatgrass and its Nutritional Values
1 Wheatgrass Juice is one of the best sources of living chlorophyll available.
2 Chlorophyll is the first product of light and, therefore, contains more light energy than any other element.
3 Wheatgrass juice is a crude chlorophyll and can be taken orally and as a colon implant without toxic side effects.
4 Chlorophyll is the basis of all plant life.
5 Wheatgrass is high in oxygen like all green plants that contain chlorophyll. The brain and all body tissues function at an optimal level in a highly-oxygenated environment.
6 Chlorophyll is anti-bacterial and can be used inside and outside the body as a healer.
7 Dr. Bernard Jensen says that it only takes minutes to digest wheatgrass juice and uses up very little body energy.
8 Science has proven that chlorophyll arrests growth and development of unfriendly bacteria.
9 Chlorophyll (wheatgrass) rebuilds the bloodstream. Studies of various animals have shown chlorophyll to be free of any toxic reaction. The red cell count was returned to normal within 4 to 5 days of the administration of chlorophyll, even in those animals which were known to be extremely anemic or low in red cell count.
10 Farmers in the Midwest who have sterile cows and bulls put them on wheatgrass to restore fertility. (The high magnesium content in chlorophyll builds enzymes that restore the sex hormones.)
11 Chlorophyll can be extracted from many plants, but wheatgrass is superior because it has been found to have over 100 elements needed by man. If grown in organic soil, it absorbs 92 of the known 102 minerals from the soil.
12 Wheatgrass has what is called the grass-juice factor, which has been shown to keep herbivorous animals alive indefinitely.
13 Dr. Ann Wigmore and institutes based on her teachings has been helping people get well from chronic disorders for 30 years using wheatgrass.
14 Liquid chlorophyll gets into the tissues, refines them and makes them over.
15 Wheatgrass Juice is a superior detoxification agent compared to carrot juice and other fruits and vegetables. Dr Earp-Thomas, associate of Ann Wigmore, says that 15 pounds of Wheatgrass is the equivalent of 350 pounds of carrot, lettuce, celery, and so forth.
16 Liquid chlorophyll washes drug deposits from the body.
17 Chlorophyll neutralizes toxins in the body.
18 Chlorophyll helps purify the liver.
19 Chlorophyll improves blood sugar problems.
20 In the American Journal of Surgery (1940), Benjamin Gruskin, M.D. recommends chlorophyll for its antiseptic benefits. The article suggests the following clinical uses for chlorophyll: to clear up foul smelling odors, neutralize Strep infections, heal wounds, hasten skin grafting, cure chronic sinusitis, overcome chronic inner-ear inflammation and infection, reduce varicose veins and heal leg ulcers, eliminate impetigo and other scabby eruptions, heal rectal sores, successfully treat inflammation of the uterine cervix, get rid of parasitic vaginal infections, reduce typhoid fever, and cure advanced pyorrhea in many cases.21 Wheatgrass Juice cures acne and even help to remove scars after it has been ingested for seven to eight months. The diet must be improved at the same time.
22 Wheatgrass juice acts as a detergent in the body and is used as a body deodorant.
23 A small amount of wheatgrass juice in the human diet helps prevents tooth decay.
24 Wheatgrass juice held in the mouth for 5 minutes will help eliminate toothaches. It pulls poisons from the gums.
25 Gargle Wheatgrass Juice for a sore throat.
26 Drink Wheatgrass Juice for skin problems such as eczema or psoriasis.
27 Wheatgrass Juice keeps the hair from graying.
28 Pyorrhea of the mouth: lay pulp of wheatgrass soaked in juice on diseased area in mouth or chew wheatgrass, spitting out the pulp.
29 By taking Wheatgrass Juice, one may feel a difference in strength, endurance, health, and spirituality, and experience a sense of well-being.
30 Wheatgrass juice improves the digestion.
31 Wheatgrass juice is high in enzymes.
32 Wheatgrass juice is an excellent skin cleanser and can be absorbed through the skin for nutrition. Pour green juice over your body in a tub of warm water and soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse off with cold water.
33 Wheatgrass implants (enemas) are great for healing and detoxifying the colon walls. The implants also heal and cleanse the internal organs. After an enema, wait 20 minutes, then implant 4 ounces of wheatgrass juice. Retain for 20 minutes.
34 Wheatgrass juice is great for constipation and keeping the bowels open. It is high in magnesium.
35 Dr. Birscher, a research scientist, called chlorophyll "concentrated sun power." He said, "chlorophyll increases the function of the heart, affects the vascular system, the intestines, the uterus, and the lungs."
36 According to Dr. Birscher, nature uses chlorophyll (wheatgrass) as a body cleanser, rebuilder, and neutralizer of toxins.
37 Wheatgrass juice can dissolve the scars that are formed in the lungs from breathing acid gasses. The effect of carbon monoxide is minimized since chlorophyll increases hemoglobin production.
38 Wheatgrass Juice reduces high blood pressure and enhances the capillaries.
39 Wheatgrass Juice can remove heavy metals from the body.
40 Wheatgrass juice is great for blood disorders of all kinds

This information was taken from Wheatgrass kits.com

Some simple things I've learned

Staying healthy is always important for our well-being and our fertility. It is even more important when we are trying to conceive. I was surprised to learn that one of the major causes of infertility is poor health. The reports show this is from our diet's to our lifestyle.

One of the easiest ways to enhance our chances of getting pregnant is eating a well-balanced diet. It's kinda like a natural fertility treatment. Eating a diet rich in fruits, veggies, and low fat dairy and protein, will provide us the nutrients needed to keep our bodies and our reproductive system working well. If you eat a lot of take-out and processed food, STOP. They don't offer much nutritional value and are loaded with fat.

I will be exercising at least three times a week. Cardio exercise will help get your blood circulating, which will get the blood flowing to your reproductive system, which will help regulate ovulation and hormone levels. I've also read that strength training to turn fat into muscle will make it easier for my body to carry a baby.

I also read that most workplaces have some sort of toxins, some have more than others. Exposure to harsh chemicals, like radiation and pesticides, can have an impact on infertility. Chemical solvents, can increase a woman's chances of miscarriage.

New Doctor Appointment

Well, tomorrow I will have another doctor’s appointment. I have a long list of questions. What I don't want to hear is anything pertaining to my age. My cycles are like clockwork. I temp every morning, which confirmed ovulation each month. I am finding it hard to find a good doctor that is in my area and covered by my insurance that will do the surgery needed to remove the adhesions.

My goal is to have the herbs I'm taking for the adhesions to work so well I will not need the surgery but I want to cover all my bases. What I'm worried about hearing is he does not see any hope. That my fsh is too high, I'm too old, I have severe adhesions, and any other reason he can come up with. As far as the doctor's are concerned, the adhesions are blocking the egg from getting into my tube.

The last doctor said my tube is completely distorted due to the adhesions. Since I only have, one ovary it's important to get that all cleaned out. It's not only causing a problem with ttc, it is affecting my bowels. That really needs to be dealt with now. I will compose a list of the questions and answers from my appointment tomorrow and post them for everyone. Maybe you will find some useful information. Wish me luck.

Monday, March 9, 2009

Serrapeptase

My new wonder herb. Serrapeptase digests non-living tissue, blood clots, cysts and as I've read adhesions. Since my doctor just left the adhesions in me when I had my lap I'm hopeful that the Serrapeptase will digest my adhesions and free my ovary and tube up so I can get pregnant.

About 10 years ago I was having a lot of pain in my right side. It would burn so bad it felt like someone was sticking me with a hot iron. After talking with my doctor we agreed that he would do a lap. This is where they make a very small incision and insert a light to take a peek and see what is going on to cause me such pain. This is all we agreed to. Well I awoke 6 hours later with an incision from hip bone to hip bone, and missing my right ovary. The doctor explained that I had severe endometriosis on my right ovary, he called in a general surgeon, and they decided to remove my right ovary. No discussion, no choice, no research, nothing. I guess I should be glad they did not decide on a full hysterectomy. I also learned they did not remove any endometriosis but just cut it, in order to free up my organs. Any one that knows anything about endo is in complete disbelief right now, I know, I could have just screamed. I still could. Well while recovering I did some research and learned a lot about endometriosis and found I did not have to lose my ovary. I made an appointment with a new doctor that specialized in endo. He agreed that I did not have to lose my ovary but what was done was done. He did another surgery and spent 4 1/2 hours cleaning me out.

Well now, 10 years later I've gone to another doctor in my area because my insurance does not cover the doctor I went to. This doctor went in and was out within 30 min. He left me a post it note (yes a post it note) telling me I had severe adhesions and that I needed to move on to IVF. He just left the adhesions, on my ovary, tube, bowels, bladder, and everywhere else in my abdomen. So now, I'm faced with having to find another doctor that will do what should be done and my insurance will pay for.While I'm waiting I am hoping that this herb will take care of what the doctors will not. I've read a lot of promising research on it. Cross your fingers for me.