Roger Williams and His Keys to Success
Legendary pianist Roger Williams seems to get a real kick out of playfully poking fun at his faults. For instance, he admits his golf game is severely sub-par (he wishes his scores were). And to the dismay of his backup musicians, he frequently changes his set list 10 minutes before he goes on stage.
But despite joking about his shortcomings, the De Moines, Iowa native said he knows where his strengths lie. Over his 54-year career, Williams has come to greatly appreciate the phenomenal talent that has helped him become the best-selling pianist in history, according to Billboard magazine. Williams advises that in order to be successful, one must put aside their weaknesses and focus on honing the natural gifts they were born with. He said this strategy proved to be the key that opened each and every door to his dreams. “Early on, I went to college and got a degree in engineering, but it wasn’t right for me,” said Williams. “And I’m a lousy golfer. “But everyone usually has one thing they do really well and I’m a great piano player. So I live by the philosophy that whatever you’re the best at, do it and you’ve got it made.” Although Williams began playing piano at the age of three, he said he didn’t consider pursuing it as a career until his mid-20s. Before he earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Idaho State University, his father, a Lutheran minister, encouraged Williams to try boxing. He admits it was a big mistake. “I broke my nose two different times, so I stopped,” said Williams, 84. Through the process of elimination, Williams said he realized he would be happiest playing the piano for a living. So he enrolled in Juilliard School of Music and began studying jazz piano. One night Williams was scheduled to accompany a Juilliard student who was to sing on “Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts.” The singer never showed up, so Roger went on in his place and won the contest. His stunning performance caught the attention of Kapp Record label founder David Kapp, who signed him immediately Williams’ first single with the label, “Autumn Leaves,” reached No. 1 in 1955 and became the only piano instrumental to land at the top of the Billboard charts. Eleven years later, Williams scored a top-ten hit with “Born Free” from the motion picture soundtrack of the same name. Other popular songs from Williams include: “The Impossible Dream,” “Almost Paradise,” “Maria” and “Lara’s Theme” from “Dr. Zhivago.” Williams said he will be performing those songs, along with several original compositions, at Citrus College. “I do a segment dedicated to beautiful music that includes songs like ‘Spanish Eyes,’” said Williams, whose repertoire consists of everything from blues to swing to pop. “I also add a lot of humor and do things that tug at the heartstrings. Overall, it’s a pretty big variety and there’s something for everyone.” Along with producing 18 gold and platinum albums and performing for nine American presidents, Williams has a built a catalog of more than 10,000 songs. Additionally, he earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and is the only artist to receive a Steinway Lifetime Achievement Award. Williams, who lives in the San Fernando Valley, also holds annual 12-hour marathon performances aimed at raising awareness for music education in the public schools. In 2007, he played for 14½ hours in Las Vegas. Williams’ work in this arena has received recognition from Gov, Arnold Schwarzenegger, who presented him with a “Champion For Youth” award in 2004. “I’m the luckiest guy in the world, said Williams, who is a frequent guest on the Reverend Robert Schuller’s “Hour of Power” TV program. “But I always say take what you want out of life, but pay for it. If you want to last until 85, you gotta be very disciplined and give up certain things. “For me, the biggest payoff has been that I’m playing better, faster and more beautifully than I ever have in my life. I feel great and I’m still out there doing what I love. What could be better than that?” Stamping Out Swine Flu!
In the case of swine flu and other infectious diseases, a single
germ can wreak havoc on the health and well-being of society. Once it begins transmitting itself among humans through bodily fluids, water, soil, or other means, it can quickly become an epidemic. As frightening as that may be, experts say it is reassuring to know that our bodies have the power to fight back through our immune system. This system detects harmful viruses, bacteria and toxins that enter the body, and then begins attacking these invaders before they have a chance to reproduce and spread. "People hear about this and say 'Oh my God,' " said Glenn Hensle, an herbalist and licensed accupuncturist who is based in Long Beach. "But wait, wait, wait. ... more people are going to die on the freeway today than from the swine flu. It's a matter of perspective and taking control of your health." The strength of one’s immune system depends on a variety of factors. For instance, people with nutrient-poor diets may be more likely to succumb to illnesses than those who stick to a healthy menu. But even the most robust individuals can fall victim to viruses like swine flu. And if swine flu does turn into a pandemic, it’s not too late to improve the body's defenses and possibly prevent getting sick altogether. The most obvious way to strengthen immunity is through the foods we eat. Fresh fruits and vegetables contain a wide variety of nutrients to keep the body functioning properly. Vitamin C is a known immunity builder and oranges, pears, cranberries, broccoli, sweet potatoes, bok choy and turnips contain high amounts. Other sources include leafy green vegetables, as well as fruits that are orange or red. Another nutrient that helps to keep our defenses high is Vitamin A. It is found in carrots, watercress, lettuce, kale, kumquat and pomegranates. Vitamins A and C, as well as E, are all antioxidants. This means they have the power to clear out harmful toxins in the body that can lead to disease. "Every fruit and vegetable has some type of health promoting aspect," said Bonny Burns-Whitmore, a registered dietician and associate professor in the department of human nutrition and food science at Cal Poly Pomona. “We usually promote those fruits and vegetables that are brightly colored, because they typically have a lot of phytochemicals (disease-prevention properties)." According to Hensle, there are several herbal remedies that also are effective in pumping up the immune system. He highly recommends the Chinese herb Astragalus, which is available in liquid form and capsules at most health food stores. “UCLA just completed a study looking at the effectiveness of Astragalus and found that it greatly enhances the body’s ability to produce anti-viral properties," said Hensle. “It should be taken at the first sign of an illness coming on." Other herbs, such as Sambucol (elderberry extract), also have proved to be potent immune system boosters. Elderberry is a plant known for its remarkable ability to prevent colds and flu. It can be purchased in liquid form or capsules at independent health food stores and larger supermarkets, such as Wild Oats, Whole Foods Market and Clark’s Nutrition Center. According to www.diagnose-me.com, Sambucol was tested on patients during the massive Israeli flu epidemic in 1992 and 1993. The results were amazing. Within 24 hours, 20 percent of all patients had dramatic improvements in their symptoms. By the second day, 73 percent were improved. By day three, the figure jumped to 90 percent. Additionally, the Web site reports Sambucol has been used on seven different strains of new influenza viruses and proved effective on each one. Although Astragalus and elderberry are reported to be safe for those in good health, they still should be used with caution and taken according to package directions, Hensle said. People with autoimmune diseases, such as Crohn's disease or lupus, should consult their primary care physician before taking Astragalus. The herb also may interfere with the effectiveness of corticosteroid medications. If one is skeptical or has concerns about these or other herbal remedies, Hensle recommends contacting a licensed practitioner. He also suggests talking to a knowledgeable employee where you are purchasing these remedies to be sure you are getting one that’s good quality. Ultimately, Hensle believes the general public has little reason to fear swine flu, as long as they take every precaution to safeguard their health. He said our bodies are familiar with these types of viruses and are fully equipped to combat them. “Don’t hit the panic button,” said Hensle. “At this point, your chances of contracting swine flu are very low in the U.S. Secondly, you can protect yourself from disease and infections by getting proper rest, eating well, drinking enough fluids and taking something like Astragalus if you start to feel run down or sense something coming on. “These actions will go a long way in building your immunity and keeping you healthy regardless of what viruses, bacteria or toxins you are exposed to.” Ten Tips For A Well-Rounded Diet
1. Rotating foods is very important in order to get a variety of nutrients year-round. For instance, eat foods when they are in season, such as strawberries from May through September. Apples are good in the Fall, peaches are good late Spring through August and blueberries are best in warmer months.
2. Most vegetables are good year-round, but still rotate them. In the summer, I make big salads using a great variety of vegetables - tomatoes, radishes, broccoli, red cabbage, avocados, carrots, red peppers, etc.. In the colder months, I steam a lot of vegetables like broccoli, green beans and carrots. 3. To get extra protein and essential fatty acids, I add different kinds of nuts and seeds to my salads, such as sunflower, almonds and walnuts. 4. I recommend eating eggs a couple of times a week. To increase the nutritional value, make an omelet with slightly steamed broccoli pieces, chopped cherry tomatoes and a little cheddar cheese. Whole grain toast is a good thing to eat with this. 5. I also eat sweet potatoes quite frequently in various forms. These are one of the most nutritious foods on the planet. Sometimes I bake them or I will cut them in cubes and saute’ them in Smart Balance until they soften. Once soft, I brown them a little. 6. If you like brown rice, it's a great side dish and is packed with nutrients. Sometimes I add cut up apple pieces, chopped pecans and cinnamon to give it extra flavor. 7. Can't say enough about eating avocados. They are extremely good for you and a great source of healthy fats. 8. When saute’ing, I love extra virgin olive oil, grapeseed oil or coconut oil. All have amazing health properties. 9. Sprinkle ground flaxseed on your cereal or add it to your yogurt or fruit. It's a great source of Omega 3 fatty acids and a treat for the tastebuds, as well. 10. Drink a cup of detox tea in the morning (Yogi Tea is one brand.) You can get this at the health food store. It's a great liver cleanser and will help flush toxins from the body. The Invincible Peter Noone of Herman's Hermits
When singer/songwriter Peter Noone was starting out in show business in the 1960s, he received some valuable advice from his idol, Paul McCartney. Noone, lead vocalist of the British pop/rock band Herman's Hermits, said upon hearing McCartney's words of wisdom he knew it was in his best interest to listen to what the man said.
"I just had my first hit record and Paul and I were talking backstage at a show we were both doing," said Noone. "We were discussing artists who put all their eggs into their career and didn't have a normal life and a family. He told me, 'You've got to make sure you have a life as well as a career.' It was a good message and it stuck with me." Noone, who has toured and recorded non-stop since his heyday, credits his ongoing success to his ability to maintain balance. The Manchester, England native said even when Herman's Hermits were at the top of the charts, building a stable family life remained a top priority. Noone married Mireille Strasser on his 21st birthday in 1968 and the couple is still going strong. At the time of their nuptuals, Herman's Hermits had a string of hits, including "I'm Into Something Good," "Mrs. Brown, You've Got a Lovely Daughter," "I'm Henry VIII, I Am," "Silhouettes," "Can't You Hear My Heartbeat," "Just a Little Bit Better," "Wonderful World," "There's A Kind of Hush," "A Must to Avoid," "Listen People," "The End of the World" and "Dandy." The band formed in 1962 when Noone, the son of a professional musician, was 15. His good looks and natural charisma captivated fans of all ages, as well as the media. The band skyrocketed to fame in 1964 after the release of its first single "I'm Into Something Good." "I heard the record in a club called The Beachcomber in Bolton (near Liverpool) and the next day as I rode the bus to meet the Hermits I was told by the bus conductor that I should start taking taxis now because I was a star," said Noone. "Instantly I was transformed from a spotty, 16-year-old, crooked tooth dork into a pop tart, and I was good at it." As "Herman" of Herman's Hermits, Noone appeared on the cover of dozens of national and international publications, including Time magazine. He also performed on television programs alongside show business legends such as Ed Sullivan, Jackie Gleason, Dean Martin and Danny Kaye. During the '60s, Noone also starred in ABC's musical version of "The Canterville Ghost," Hallmark Hall of Fame's presentation of the classic "Pinocchio" and three feature films for MGM: "Mrs. Brown, You've Got a Lovely Daughter," "Hold On!" and "When the Boys Meet the Girls." Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Noone spent a great deal of time in the studio composing and producing songs for David Bowie and Debby Boone, among others. He also took a greater interest in acting and starred in stage productions of "Dick Wittington," "Aladdin," "Sinbad the Sailor" and "The Pirates of Penzance." "Whether it's singing or acting, I love to be on stage," said Noone. "When you're up there you just go from moment to moment and lose all track of time. And when you're into it that much, the audience gets into it, too. They know who's real and who isn't." These days, Noone keeps it real by corresponding with his fans regularly through his personal Web site, www.peternoone.com. He said the Internet has changed his career dramatically by giving him constant exposure for all his new projects. "I caught on to the Internet early on and realized it was a great way to connect with fans," said Noone. "And I enjoy connecting them with one another, too. I don't know of any other artist who personally answer e-mails or participates in their forums. "A lot of people don't believe it's me at first. But when I answer questions that only I would know the answer to, they say, 'Oh, it really is you!' We all have great fun, which is what Herman's Hermits was always about." According to Noone, fun is also on the agenda at Herman's Hermits' live stage shows, as he and the band treat the fans to many of the group's chart-toppers. He said they also throw in a few cover tunes by artists such as Johnny Cash, Tom Jones and The Monkeys. Beyond the music, Noone said audiences are in for a few surprises. Apparently, there's nothing like a live show to coax "Herman" completely out of his shell. "Although I don't look like him, I am still that 17-year-old kid from Herman's Hermits," said Noone. "And once that adrenaline gets going, I can do some stunts on stage that are nearly impossible at my age. I pay for it the next day, but when I'm up there it's like I'm invincible." Weight, Weight, Stay Away
Six months of carrot sticks, cottage cheese and rice cakes did the trick! You’ve lost all that weight and could go for a big slice of chocolate cake to celebrate. Well, maybe not.
Chances are, you probably just want to start eating normally again but are fearful that if you do, all those unwanted pounds will return. Your concerns are valid. According to WebMD (www.webmd.com), studies show that only one in every 20 dieters who lose weight successfully keeps it off. There are some things everyone can do to tip the scale in their favor, according to Susan Lewis, a registered dietician at Loma Linda University’s Center for Health Promotion. One practical strategy is to avoid common weight-loss traps, such as fad and crash diets. “You should definitely maintain a low-fat diet, eat breakfast daily and weigh yourself regularly,” said Lewis, who holds a master’s degree in public health from Loma Linda University. “Those are the ones that are the most important.” Patti T. Milligan is Director of Nutrition and Public Relations for Sprouts grocery chain, which has a store in Claremont. She said the best way to lose weight and keep it off is to stock up on foods that support a healthy weight. She also said to avoid sugary soft drinks and add one type of fiber-rich food at every meal. “At breakfast you can add any whole grain, such as oatmeal,” said Milligan, a registered dietitian. “For lunch, have a pear or some walnuts. Or you can even add two tablespoons of flaxseed to your salad. Dinner should always include one raw vegetable and one cooked vegetable. And you can certainly add beans to any salad.” Milligan also advocates exercise. She said some type of daily exercise for at least 20 minutes helps keep the pounds at bay. From a psychological standpoint, Milligan said focusing on your original goals will greatly help with staying motivated. She also suggests picking one day a week to indulge in your favorite food, regardless of its nutritional value. “When people allow themselves that, it sort of takes the appeal away from eating something unhealthy,” said Milligan. “Once they know they can have that plate of fries or piece of apple pie, suddenly they’re not all that appetizing.” While some can lose weight and keep it off through self-motivation, others may need the support of clinics such as Dr. Healy’s Diet Center in Rancho Cucamonga. Dr. Daniel J. Healy’s diet center, which also has a location in Duarte, offers supervised weight loss programs that are customized to an individual’s needs and based upon their specific medical history. “No matter how you lose weight, you will have to work to maintain it, ” said Healy, who earned his medical degree in bariatrics and family practice at Loyola-Stritch School of Medicine in Maywood, IL. “A good way to do a maintenance diet is to build upon the eating pattern you develop during the rapid weight phase. You can make substitutions and add some fruits and starches but maintain the pattern of small frequent meals.” Healy recommends eating six small meals a day, 2-3 hours apart. He said by eating at regular intervals, you can keep your metabolism elevated and energy levels stable. Although it seems low, Healy suggests limiting calories to approximately 900 per day. “Your total carbohydrates should not to exceed 132 grams daily, which is 22 grams per meal maximum,“ said Healy. “The total of your protein intake should be 72 to 90 grams daily, which is equal to 12 to 15 grams per meal. And do not exceed 27 grams of fat per day. Also, aim for 10 eight-ounce glasses of water daily because staying hydrated is a key to maintaining a healthy weight.” Healy advises not to stress out too much over age-related weight gain unless it gets out of hand. In his practice, he said he has observed that most people over the age of 40 will gain some weight, especially around the abdominal area. “I think everyone has a set weight range, which does change over time,” said Healy. “I’m sure it has something to do with genetics and other factors such as hormones, age and stress levels. But to me the bottom line is calories in and calories out. If you’re healthy, watch your calories and get enough vitamins, minerals, proteins and other essential nutrients, you shouldn’t have too much a problem maintaining.” Along with Dr. Healy’s Diet Center, Loma Linda University’s Center for Health Promotion offers weight loss and maintenance support through two programs. The Optifast® program (www.optifast.com) is a 26-week, medically supervised program for individuals with 50 or more pounds to lose. Lean Choices is a 12-week class for those individuals who want to improve their health and weight through exercise, food choices, and the psychology of eating. Why It's More Than Chic To Eat Organic
Fashion has its trends and, apparently, so does produce. When it comes to fruits and vegetables, buying organic is the latest craze among health-conscious individuals. According to the Massachusetts-based Organic Trade Organization, North America has nearly 3.7 million acres of farmland under organic management.
Since 1997, U.S. organic food sales have grown between 17 and 21 percent and represent about 2 percent of total food sales. The increase in consumption may be partially due to public concern about the harmful effects of chemical pesticides used to protect conventional produce crops. Consumers are being warned to minimize exposure to pesticides, as they may have adverse effects on health, contributing to everything from cancer to birth defects. Organic produce, however, is pesticide-free. Farmers who grow organic produce use manure or compost to nourish the soil. Weeds are managed by rotating crops, tilling and hand-weeding. Richard Wiles, executive director of the Environmental Working Group (EWG), says any food that is labeled organic must meet strict USDA guidelines. They prohibit produce from being treated with synthetic pesticides, herbicides, fumigants or fertilizers. “You can be 100 percent sure that if a product is labeled organic, it means it,” said Wiles, whose Washington, D.C-based group acts as a watchdog organization to expose threats to public health and seek solutions. “Organic food not only has to meet all the USDA standards of conventional food, but there’s even more standards for it.” Part of the EWG’s mission is to inform the public about the possible dangers of pesticides, as well as how to decrease them in their diets. A recent computer analysis by the organization determined that consumers could cut their pesticide exposure by nearly 90 percent by following specific guidelines. These guidelines can be found in the EWG’s wallet-sized Shopper’s Guide, which lists fruits and vegetables with the highest and lowest levels of pesticides. The data in the Shoppper’s Guide are based on the results of approximately 43,000 tests for pesticides on produce by the Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration from 2000-2004. According to the EWG, peaches and apples top the list of having the highest pesticide residue. Other produce on that list includes sweet bell peppers, celery, nectarines, strawberries, cherries, pears, imported grapes, spinach, lettuce and potatoes. Those who love onions, avocados and sweet corn can rest assured that these fruits and vegetables are 90 percent pesticide-free. Other clean foods include pineapple, mango, asparagus, sweet peas, kiwi, bananas, cabbage, broccoli and papaya. “The results from our tests are based on produce that has already been washed,” said Wiles. “It shows that washing produce may reduce the level of pesticides, but it can’t remove them completely.” Bonny Burns-Whitmore, MPH, DrPH, RD, a lecturer in the department of human nutrition and food science at Cal Poly Pomona, said there are two main reasons why some fruits and vegetables contain higher levels of pesticides than others. “The more nutritious a food is, the more it attracts bugs and animals,” said Burns-Whitmore. “That means, it has to be sprayed a lot more and will have a bigger build up of pesticide residue. “Another factor in pesticide residue has to do with the thickness of the skins. For instance, fruits and vegetables with thick skins like avocados and pineapples are a lot less likely to absorb pesticides than produce with thin skins like apples and potatoes.” Although the EWG says pesticides are harmful, studies by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) show otherwise. In 2006, the EPA released a study which concluded that pesticides used in the United States meet the highest health and safety standards in the world. On August 3, the EPA completed a 10-year review of 231 pesticides used on foods that resulted in changes to how the chemicals are regulated. According to the agency’s Web site, most of the foods we eat are grown with pesticides. “EPA’s groundbreaking effort is being welcomed at dinner tables across the nation,” said EPA administrator Stephen L. Johnson in a recent press release. “The Bush Administration is ensuring pesticides used to grow the fruits, vegetables and other food families are serving meet the highest standards in the world. “This 10-year review enables farmers to grow a bountiful, healthy food supply for generations of American families.” The EPA’s primary goal is to evaluate pesticides to make certain they will not harm a person’s health or the environment. Pesticides that pass this evaluation are granted a license or "registration" that permits their sale and use according to requirements set by EPA. The EPA sets a tolerance, or maximum residue limit, which is the amount of pesticide residue allowed to remain in or on each treated food commodity. Any pesticide which does not meet the EPA’s tolerance level will not be approved for use. “In my research, I have found the largest percentage of people who get cancer and other diseases from pesticides are mostly the farm workers who are constantly exposed to them,” said Burns-Whitmore. “As far as we know, the pesticides used here in the United States to protect fruits and vegetables are not a health threat to the general public.” Despite the EPA’s assurance that pesticide levels on conventional produce are safe, the demand for organic produce appears to be increasing. But Wiles said there are still not enough stores selling it. Health food markets such as Whole Foods, Wild Oats and Trader Joe’s carry an ample supply. But organic produce can be difficult to find in most conventional grocery stores. In Southern California, 10 percent to 20 percent of produce in most Vons and Albertsons stores is organic. Additionally, some Stater Brothers stores offer a small organic selection. Paul McCallion, produce manager for Vons on Broadway Street in Long Beach, said the demand for organic produce in his store is low. He hopes that as awareness is raised about the health benefits of organic food, requests to stock it will increase. “I may have one in every 500 customers request organic produce,” said McCallion. “And let’s say I have organic Fuji apples on sale and they are cheaper than the conventional Fuji apples. People will still say they don’t trust that organic stuff. I think customers will begin to trust as they become more informed.” Wiles believes another reason for lack of demand in some areas could be the price. One will typically pay 20 percent to 50 percent more for organic produce than conventional, according to Peggy Miars, executive director for the California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF). She blames the higher cost primarily on labor costs. “The higher price of organic food is directly related to the cost of producing it,” said Miars, whose organization promotes and supports organic food and agriculture through a premier organic certification program. “It’s very labor intensive because organic farmers have to send out a whole field of workers to hand weed it.” Other than the price, Wiles feels people may be wary of buying organic produce because of the recent E.coli O157:H7 outbreaks. He suspects the outbreaks could have led some to believe that food not grown with pesticides to protect it is more susceptible to dangerous bacteria. “The public might have the impression there’s a link between E. coli and organic produce, but it’s not true,” said Wiles. “People should be confident that organic produce is safe. To our knowledge, there have never been any E.coli outbreaks linked to organic produce.” Tricia DiPersio, PhD, R.D., food safety specialist and dietician for Wild Oats Markets in Boulder, Colo., backs up Wiles’ statements about the safety record of organic produce. She said she has found that organic food suppliers for her stores have extremely high food-safety standards. Additionally, Wild Oats Markets takes steps to protect its customers by conducting in-depth reviews of these suppliers’ food safety systems. “The bottom line is that bacterial contamination can occur in any kind of produce, whether it’s conventional or organic,” said DiPersio, who noted Wild Oats stores stock 70 percent to 80 percent organic produce. “But because our standards for food safety are so high, our customers trust us.” Long Beach resident Sheila Hart is one consumer who puts her faith in organic food. Hart, a stay-at-home mother of two, said she and her family feel a lot safer eating fruits and vegetables that haven’t been grown with pesticides. And she’s willing to drive 20 minutes to Wild Oats Market to purchase them. “I have an Albertson’s that’s really close to me and they do have some organic produce,” said Hart, who admits there’s not much taste difference between organic and conventional produce. “But their selection is limited. If they had a large selection like Wild Oats, I’d be just as happy to buy it there.” Whether organic or conventional, Wiles advocates eating lots of fruits and vegetables to maintain good health. And he and Burns-Whitmore agree that even though conventional produce is exposed to toxic substances, there is no evidence it is any less nutritious than organic produce. “Here at the EWG, we’re big fans of eating fruits and vegetables no matter what,” Wiles said. “Nutritionally, there is really no difference between organic and conventional produce,” said Burns-Whitmore. “The only thing that might be slightly higher is Vitamin C in organically grown leafy vegetables. No one really knows why.” For more information about food safety and organic produce, and to view the EWG’s Shoppers Guide, log on to www.ewg.com How Herbs Can Heal
Long before the invention of prescription drugs, the remedy for many illnesses was often as close as the kitchen cupboard. These age-old treatments included a variety of culinary herbs, such as ginger, garlic, oregano, cardamom, turmeric, rosemary, cinnamon, peppermint and parsley. They were used to cure everything from insomnia to infectious diseases.
In the Middle Ages, garlic was the herb of choice to combat the bubonic plague, according to the Herb Research Foundation (HRF). The organization’s Web site also states that during World War I, European soldiers prevented infection by putting garlic directly on their wounds. Additionally, HRF says Panax Ginseng was used in ancient times as a health enhancing tonic and to increase physical stamina. And for more than 4000 years, Chinese herbalists have relied on Ginko Biloba to treat asthma, bronchitis and brain disorders. Although herbs are still used by individuals and naturopathic practitioners to promote healing, prescription drugs seem to have become the preferred treatment for disease. A 2004 study by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCAM) showed that about 19 percent of Americans have used natural remedies. Organizations such as the American Medical Association (AMA) remain skeptical about herbs being used as medicine. On its Web site, it states that the therapeutic benefits of herbal remedies remain inconclusive. Therefore, the AMA does not recommend the sole use of these remedies to treat disease without scientific evidence regarding their safety or efficacy. And it cautions against potential serious side-effects. Long Beach-based herbalist and licensed acupuncturist Glenn Hensle said while herbs can bring on side-effects, they are typically much less severe than conventional medicines. Still, he has found there is an overall lack of knowledge about the about potential side effects of herbs and how they can negatively interact with certain medications. For instance, Kava, an herb used as a muscle relaxant and pain reliever, should not be taken with antidepressants and antipsychotic drugs, according to Hensle. And he says Feverfew, which is a popular herb for migraine headaches, should never be taken with any other migraine medications. The interaction of the two remedies can cause a person’s heart rate and blood pressure to rise to dangerous levels. Taking too much goldenseal, a natural treatment for cough, stomach upset and arthritis, can result in severe gastrointestinal distress, Hensle said. Dr. Andrew Weil, a physician and author of several best-selling books on health, concurs with Hensle that one should be cautious when combining herbs and conventional medicines. Weil is founder and program director of the Program in Integrative Medicine (PIM) at the University of Arizona. His books include “Eight Weeks to Optimum Health,” “Natural Health, Natural Medicine, and “Eating Well for Optimum Health.” Over the last decade, he has become one of the leading proponents integrative medicine, which is an approach that combines conventional medical treatments with herbal remedies, acupuncture, nutritional supplements, etc. “In general, I think you're pretty safe taking most supplements, but you certainly should tell your doctor about anything you're taking regularly, particularly if you're also taking either prescription or over-the-counter drugs, said Weil in the Q&A section on his Web site, www.drweil.com. “Both patients and doctors should be aware of interactions between drugs and remedies taken simultaneously. Just as there are drug-drug interactions, there are also drug-herb interactions, and they can affect treatment outcomes.” According to NCAM’s Web site, since herbal supplements act in the same way as drugs, they can create medical problems when not taken in the correct dosage. In addition, it says that women who are pregnant or nursing should use extreme caution in using herbs. This warning also applies to treating children with herbal preparations. NCAM also notes that herbal supplements in the United States are regulated by the FDA as foods. Therefore, they do not have to meet the same standards as drugs and over-the-counter medications for safety and effectiveness. To insure one’s safety when taking herbs, Hensle recommends consulting a reputable practitioner who has been properly trained in herbal medicine. Additionally, he encourages the public to question an herbalist about his or her education and experience. “Someone who practices herbal medicine really has to know what they’re doing or they can cause someone harm,” said Hensle, who set up his practice in Long Beach in 2001. “All too often, potential drug interactions are not looked at. If an herbalist doesn’t tell you what’s in it and how it’s going to work, that should be a big red flag.” According to Hensle, the shelf life for most herbs in pill or tablet form is three to five years. He also said fresh, unprocessed herbs will have an odor. If they do not smell, at least a little, Hensle says they are most likely breaking down and advises to throw them away. Julie James, owner of the East Village Wellness Center in Long Beach, has additional guidelines regarding the storage of herbs. James is a master herbalist and certified nutritional consultant who has been in practice for 25 years. “Certain herbs, like peppermint, have volatile oils and break down very quickly,” said James, who opened her health food store in 2003. “These oils only stay good for about three to six moths. “But then other types of herbs that are rich in minerals, such as iron-rich yellowdock, will never break down. In my opinion, the shelf life really comes down to the chemicals in the herb.” Hensle said the practice of treating illnesses with herbs began more than 5,000 years ago in China. Europe and India adopted the practice 3000 years ago. While all three geographical regions had different approaches to how they formulated herbal remedies, they shared a common belief that healing was found in nature. By the 16th century, most medical systems around the world had adopted the use of herbal medicine. But the tide began to change in the late 1800s with the development of Western medicine, which utilizes pharmaceuticals and surgery to treat disease. Suddenly, herbal preparations became the “snake oil” of the day and were dismissed by the majority of medical professionals. In the early 1900s, natural medicine became almost obsolete in Western civilization. It has only been in recent years that herbs have begun to regain their reputation as healing agents, according to Mark Blumenthal, founder and executive director of the American Botanical Council (ABC). “The growing interest in herbs has been a consumer-based phenomenon since the 1970s,” said Blumenthal. “It’s been boiling from the ground up and the demand for more herbal products has been steadily increasing.” The American Botanical Council is an Austin, Texas-based nonprofit organization that provides education using science-based and traditional information to promote the responsible use of herbal medicine. According to Hensle, herbs can be consumed in a variety of ways. The most common are in the form of teas, capsules or tinctures (liquid preparations). Hensle prefers capsules because he says the formulas used to make teas in Chinese herbal medicine take longer to prepare and are not very palatable. “Liquids are more quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, but still, the teas taste horrible,” Hensle said. “It’s been my experience if you get good quality pills, they are almost as effective as the teas.” In treating conditions with herbs, Hensle has found that some work more quickly than conventional medicines and some take a much longer time to kick in. As an example, he cites Rhubard Root, which is often given for severe constipation. “This root works much faster than conventional remedies,” said Hensle. But that’s not the case with all herbs. Every formula is different and there are many factors that determine how long they will take to work.” One of Hensle’s patients, Deborah Jackson, recently found fast relief through an herbal remedy for a condition called “plum pit qi.” The symptoms of this condition are feeling as though something is stuck in your throat. Jackson went to her medical doctor, who was unable to diagnose or treat the condition without invasive tests. She then consulted Hensle, who gave her an herbal formula he believed would help to correct the problem. “I did not want to go through uncomfortable tests, so I consulted with Dr. Hensle,” said Jackson, a resident of Signal Hill. “He gave me the herbs and after taking them for two weeks, I feel so much better.” Another one of Hensle’s patients, Mike Blasetti, was having a localized stabbing pain in his chest. Hensle, who believed the problem was more emotional than physical, gave him an herbal formula that Blasetti says helped him almost immediately. “I was very worried about the pain in my chest, but I started taking the herbs Dr. Hensle gave me and about three days later, I was feeling pretty good,” said Blasetti, 24, who owns Blasetti Construction in Long Beach. “I’m all about natural health, so if I can take something that’s not synthetic, that’s all the better.” Although Hensle is an advocate for natural health remedies, he places a great deal of value on Western medicine. He said he would like to see practitioners in both fields work more closely to determine how to combine both herbal and conventional medicine for chronic and terminal diseases. Hensle’s convictions about the effectiveness of herbs are not only based on first-hand experience in using them, but also on studies which have confirmed their healing properties. For example, in February 2006, a study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal suggested standardized ginseng extracts can reduce both the amount and severity of colds people suffer significantly. It also found that the extracts work as well as many antiviral medications currently used to treat or prevent colds and influenza. Additionally, a 2006 study conducted by Cochrane Controlled Trials found that white willow bark and devil’s claw were effective herbs for low back pain. “A lot of Western doctors don’t think herbs work, but they are the basis for many prescription drugs,” Hensle said. “Aspirin comes from white willow and valium comes from valerian root. And the weight loss drug Ephedra is actually another herb known as ‘Mormon’s Tea.’” In recent years, there have been at least two deaths related to ephedra. As a result of these deaths, the sale of over-the-counter dietary supplements containing ephedra is illegal. “Ephedra is speed and that’s why it’s behind the counter,” said Hensle. “It can acclerate your heart rate so much that if you are working out, it could cause an aneurism or your heart to blow out.” Blumenthal said herbs have a highly complex nature and it can be difficult to accurately test them for safety and effectiveness. His best advice to the consumer is to do their homework and gather as much information as they can about the herb or herbal combination they are interested in taking. Not only are thousands of studies published on the ABC’s Web site, but he says there are countless resource materials available on the Internet and in bookstores and libraries. “I think that many consumers and medical professionals are simply not educated about healing properties in herbs,” said Blumenthal, former adjunct associate professor of medicinal chemistry at the University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy. “But the bottom line is, there are at least 10,000 herbs known to have medicinal value and there’s so much more we need to learn about them. I’ve been studying this for 35 years and feel I’ve only scratched the surface.” Detailed information about herbs can be found in the Physicians Desk Reference (PDR) for Herbal Medicines ($59.95/Thomson Healthcare). Tuning into Positve Energy For Optimum Health
On the natural path to physical and emotional wholeness, there are bound to be a few bumps and bruises along way. With every treatment or remedy, there’s a time of waiting and learning to make adjustments to one’s behavior. Getting well without the use conventional medicine also causes us to exercise our faith muscle in ways that might be foreign or uncomfortable.
Holistic practitioner Gerdi Altman understands this delicate process and has guided countless people to optimum health through a natural therapy called Energy TuningÔ. Altman, who lives and practices in Israel, said she takes great interest in the well-being of her clients, helping them tune in to positive, life-transforming energy. She believes just about any physical or emotional issue can be corrected through Energy Tuning, a technique she developed in 2000. According to Altman, the technique has helped correct everything from migraine headaches to chronic fatigue to depression. It involves changing or rebalancing the energies within an individual’s energy system to bring them to the correct frequencies. “Basically, I’m the cleaner and the alarm that tells people what’s going on inside their bodies,” said Altman, who holds a diploma in medical dowsing recognized by the Institute of Complementary Medicine in the United Kingdom and accredited by Thames Valley University. “When I’m checking people, I loosen or get rid of the negative stuff and replace it with positive energy. It’s like taking an X-ray of your energy, but I think it’s a lot better because I can get a picture of everything that’s going on within a person.” Through Energy Tuning, Altman said she is able to identify imbalances and blocks using a pendulum and various energy level tests. Once these blocks are located, she implements a clearing process that will remove the rubbish and allow good energy to come through. This is accomplished with various energy remedies, which Altman sends into the client’s energy system. “The remedies used are always energy remedies and no substance is ever involved,” said Altman. “For example, if the indication is that a certain herb would be beneficial, the energy of this herb and not the physical herb itself would be captured and adjusted in the correct way and sent across into the client's energy system. There are thousands of remedies to choose from.” When it comes to detecting, measuring, tracking and monitoring energies, Altman believes the pendulum is the perfect instrument. She said by recognizing and interpreting the movements of a pendulum correctly, energies in the human body can be observed with precision. Altman’s pendulum is lightweight and made of clear crystal. These devices can be of various weights and made of wood, metal or other materials. Typically, they are suspended from a chain or a string. “Over the years, I’ve learned that the pendulum is extremely reliable,” said Altman. “I can see from the strength of the swing, or spin, what’s going on. There’s no guessing, personal opinions, experimenting, trial-and-error or hit-or-miss situation. Through an energy link with the client, the pendulum will give the exact picture.” In order to get a clear snapshot of a person’s health, Altman creates what she refers to as an energy link to them. She does this by asking them for their date and location of birth, as well as a strand of their hair. This information allows her to begin checking all the energy systems in their body to see which are running correctly and incorrectly. She said a person does not need to be present for the therapy and she works with patients via telephone and e-mail all around the world. According to Altman, a course of energy clearing and balancing can take days, weeks or sometimes months. She said while chronic conditions such asthma and back pain may be more difficult to correct, less severe problems like the flu or eye irritations usually clear up quickly. All of Altman’s treatments require follow-up sessions that differ in frequency depending on the individual’s health issues. Along with Energy Tuning sessions, Altman recommends a variety of holistic remedies to encourage healing, such as homeopathy, vitamins and minerals, Chinese herbs, Chakra balancing, aromatherapy and acupuncture, to name a few. Additionally, she educates her clients about the importance of proper nutrition. “Dietary advice gives an overview of the effects certain types of food have on your energy system,” said Altman. “It is important to know in general but especially when going through a series of treatments so that the system gets the best possible care.” Catherine Edmonds-Hahn, a patient of Altman’s, said she has benefited by Energy Tuning in myriad ways. Several years ago, the London resident sought Altman’s help for extreme stress. After her husband’s death and a major move, she said she was unable to think clearly and move forward in a positive direction. “My life just seemed to come to a standstill and in desperation I turned to Gerdi,” said Edmonds-Hahn. “Though the changes were slow, bit by bit the situation around me changed. I was calmer and more able to cope. Suddenly, good things started to happen.” Life has also gotten much better for Lucy Harrison of Ireland, who has been seeing Altman for seven years. Harrison said she had a debilitating eye condition that forced her to miss many days of work. She also had a difficult time coping with stress, especially when traveling. After four years of treatments, her eyesight improved dramatically. She also began traveling to places such as Southeast Asia and India without feeling the least bit stressed. “I credit the ongoing work with Gerdi for supporting me to regain my health and the possibilities that being healthy have now opened up to me,” Harrison said. For those on traditional medications or therapies, Altman said Energy Tuning will not interfere. She recommends that anyone undergoing medical treatment continue to follow their doctor’s advice and let them know before starting any alternative program. “Energy Tuning is very effective but people have to be open to making changes in regards to the way they take care of their bodies,” said Altman. “It takes time and effort to turn your situation around. “But many of my clients get really motivated when other people start noticing the changes in them. When they tell me stories about how someone said they look much healthier, that gives me the biggest pleasure.” Dark Chocolate - Heart and Soul Food
Chocoholics, take heart! According to research, your favorite treat is more than just a guilty pleasure. It appears as though chocolate – especially the dark variety -- is actually good for you and can enhance your overall well-being in a myriad of ways.
UC Davis studies conducted from 2000-06 found the popular snack food to be rich in vital minerals, including magnesium, calcium, copper and potassium. Additionally, the studies showed chocolate contains properties that lower cholesterol, boost the immune system and improve cardiovascular health. Carl L. Keen, professor of nutrition and internal medicine at UC Davis, said more research is needed to determine the long-term effects of dark chocolate on health. However, in the short-term, he said there is solid evidence that it is an important addition to a well-balanced diet. “We have found that most of the health benefits in chocolate are directly related to something called flavanols,” said Keen, who oversees a chocolate research group at UC Davis. “There has been growing research that flavanols have positive effects on the cardiovascular system. “We are also learning that flavanols can increase blood flow to the brain, which can result in influencing the mood. The research is provocative and exciting.” Flavanols occur naturally in plant-based foods like cocoa beans, apples, grapes and tea. These compounds act as powerful antioxidants to help rid the body of free radicals. (Free radicals are reactive chemicals that can damage important cellular molecules such as DNA.) Research has shown flavanol antioxidants are particularly high in dark chocolate, which contains nearly 50 percent more of them than milk chocolate. Based on these findings, many chocolate companies have developed new candy bars with higher percentages of cocoa to maximize the health benefits. The bars range from 50 percent to 98 percent cocoa. “The suggestion is that the more cocoa in processed chocolate, the more flavanols it contains,” said Keen. “But if the chocolate is not processed correctly, it may lose a lot of its nutritional value. “For instance, there is a form of processing called Dutching where an alkaline treatment is used to modify the flavor and color of the product. When this method is used, it destroys the flavanols.” Keen said there is no industry standard used for grading the quality of chocolate. However, finer chocolate typically contains natural ingredients – cocoa, cocoa butter, sugar, and soy lecithin as a thickening and smoothing agent. In addition, vanilla is sometimes added to enhance flavor. David Grotto, a registered dietician and food researcher, said he is not too concerned with how dark chocolate is processed or how much cocoa it contains. In his opinion, chocolate in any form qualifies as one of the most nutritious foods on the planet. “Chocolate should be squarely placed on every plate of every American,” said Grotto, a spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association. “With all the healthy compounds in it, you are getting a whole package deal. “And even though the belief is that the more cocoa a bar has the healthier it is, I’m not necessarily sure that’s something that can be guaranteed. I think that most likely, there are health benefits to chocolate no matter how it’s processed.” While chocolate may be overflowing with health properties, Grotto admits there are still questions surrounding the tasty temptation. For instance, how much chocolate should a person eat? If one is trying to lose weight, is chocolate still a good choice? Does chocolate contain a high amount of caffeine? After conducting years of research, Grotto has developed some guidelines for consumption. He said one to two ounces of chocolate per day is sufficient to benefit from its nutrients. If dieters are trying to avoid sugar, Grotto says chocolate with a higher percentage of cocoa would be a smarter choice. For those looking to cut down on fat, the opposite is true. According to the nutrition facts listed on various Dagoba chocolate bars, one serving of a chocolate bar with 59-percent cocoa content contains 13 grams of sugar and 9 grams of fat. One serving of a bar with 74-percent cocoa content contains 8 grams of sugar and 11 grams of fat. A bar containing 87 percent cocoa has 4 grams of sugar and 13 grams of fat. In regards to the caffeine in chocolate, alchemist Frederick Schilling said it is very low. Schilling has found that a 2-ounce bar has the equivalent amount of caffeine in half a cup of decaffeinated coffee (3-4 milligrams). But he says a mug of hot cocoa in the morning can provide the jolt that coffee drinkers desire. “Cocoa stimulates the brain but does not have the caffeine that coffee does,” said Schilling, founder of Dagoba chocolate, based in Ashland, Ore. “Every morning, I mix about two heaping tablespoons of dark cocoa powder in an 8-ounce glass of water. It’s a great way to wake up and start the day.” Schilling admits his morning concoction is bitter. However, this is exactly the way chocolate was consumed by the ancient Mayans and Aztecs. Two thousand years ago, the Mayan and Aztec people discovered the cacao (pronounced kah KOW) tree in the rainforests of Mexico and Central America. The pods of this tree contained seeds that were fermented, dried and roasted. After this process, they were ground and mixed with water. Chile, cornmeal and other ingredients were added to create a frothy drink. In the early 1500s, cocoa drinks sweetened with sugar became popular among the wealthy throughout Europe. At the time, both cacao and sugar were very expensive to import, so only the rich could afford them. Eventually, Spain and other European countries set up plantations to grow these two plants. Mass production of chocolate began in the 1800s, making it available to the general public. Chocolate’s popularity continued to grow throughout the world due to inventions like the cocoa press, which made it possible to form chocolate into a smooth and solid bar. In 1847, the first chocolate candy bar was developed by J.S. Fry and Sons in Keysham, England. Schilling said the Mayans and Aztecs were certainly “on to something” when they began adding cocoa to their diets. Although they had no technology for testing its health properties, he believes these people instinctively knew it was good for them. At the very least, Schilling said chocolate tastes delicious. On a gloomy day or in stressful situations, a tiny bite can often do wonders for the soul. “Nothing can touch cacao in terms of antioxidants,” said Schilling. “I highly recommend chocolate for prevention of disease and to maintain health. And beyond that, if you like it, eat it. If it makes you feel good, that’s the best medicine there is.” Jessica Simpson - Thank God She's A Country Girl
Holy smoke, she’s gone country! Maybe it’s because she’s been hanging around with that Cowboy, you know, Tony Romo. Whatever the reason, it turned out to be a good move for Jessica Simpson, the former pop princess whose new CD “Do You Know” debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s country charts the week of Sept. 9.
That same week, it became the No. 1 title on iTunes for all genres. And the CD's breakout single, “Come On Over,” made chart history by becoming the first debut country single by a solo artist to break the top-50 at No. 41. Not bad for a gal whose critics predicted she was doomed for failure on Music Row. Back in Los Angeles after a quick trip to Las Vegas to perform for a charity event, the Texas-born beauty offered some insights about her incredible yet sometimes unstable road to Nashville. “To belong in this world, you have to belong to yourself first," said Simpson. "That’s what Nashville has meant for me. I’ve always believed if you stay true to your heart the choices you make will end up being the right ones. I’m in the most comfortable place I’ve ever been and the smile on my face couldn’t be more genuine.” Like many of the country greats she admires -- Patsy Cline and Willie Nelson, included -- Simpson started out singing in her church choir. Her father, Joe Simpson, was a Baptist minister and Jessica said he exposed her to a lot of gospel music. As a pre-teen, she grew tired of choral singing and began to pursue her dream of fame and fortune in the music business. Along with competing in local dance and vocal competitions, she also auditioned for the “New Mickey Mouse Club” at the age of 12. Simpson admits to being heartbroken when she received a letter from Disney saying she hadn’t made it. The rejection was especially disappointing because so many of her peers were accepted: Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Justin Timberlake, Ryan Gosling and Keri Russell. “Rejection is a great thing,” said Simpson. “It allows you to be alone and figure things out.” Despite her disappointment, Simpson bounced back quickly when she was invited to contribute to an album recorded by a gospel choir in New Jersey. That project led to Simpson recording her first solo gospel album, which she said her grandmother paid to have duplicated. It didn‘t take long for the CD to catch the ear of Columbia Record’s music executive Tommy Mottola, who signed her to a recording contract in 1999. Simpson’s debut CD, “Sweet Kisses,” produced the smash single “I Wanna Love You Forever,” launching her to international fame. Her follow-up CD in 2001, “Irresistible,” debuted at No. 6 on the Billboard 200Album Chart and produced the hit single of the same title. During the recording of her third CD in 2003, “In This Skin,” Simpson’s personal life began to unravel. Suddenly, she found herself more famous for her marital troubles to pop singer Nick Lachey than her music. The public got an up-close-and-personal look at the couple’s rocky private life on the wildly popular reality show, “Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica.” Simpson said the program, which ran for 41 episodes until March 30, 2003, painted an inaccurate portrait of her as a ditzy, dimwitted and selfish person. That not only damaged her self-esteem but also led to the breakup of her marriage to Lachey, former member of the boy band 98 Degrees. The pair divorced in 2005. These days, Simpson’s feeling much stronger. “I’ve sworn off all the haters,” said Simpson. “My computer is turned off and I mostly read my fan mail to encourage myself. And my faith has given me strength. Without it, I’d have given up a long time ago.” As Simpson began to heal from her divorce and an onslaught of public criticism, she realized it was time to return to making her beloved music. And she became more determined than ever to prove herself as a recording artist capable of leaving behind a legacy. So she left the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles and headed back to Nashville in 2007 to do what she wanted to do all along - write and record country music. Her label, Epic/Columbia Nashville, hooked her up with a team of writers and 12 songs for “Do You Know” began to take shape. The result was a contemporary mixture of country tunes centered around her experiences with life and love. Among the tracks are “Remember That,” “Pray Out Loud,” “When I Loved You Like That” and “Do You Know,” which was written by legendary singer/songwriter Dolly Parton. “Dolly is a remarkable human being,” said Simpson. “She’s the kind of person that when you go to sleep at night you believe she might be saying a prayer for you. That’s the kind of person I want to be to the people I know.” With the success of her new CD and her restored confidence, Simpson said she has finally found peace on her journey. And regardless of obstacles and a few remaining naysayers, she knows her life and her career hold exciting and endless possibilities. “No matter how successful the record is in the world, it will always be successful to me because it has allowed me to follow my heart’s desire,” said Simpson. “I really believe what I’m singing about and I love what I’m doing. Yes, it’s all highlighted by the world’s perspective but if I stay humble and true to who I am, the best is yet to come.” 
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