MANY BABY BOOMERS ARE NOT RETIRING..THEY ARE LIVING LONGER AND STRONGER

Coralie Darsey-Malloy

Baby boomers are valiantly signaling their advancement into the golden years with fitness routines, healthy lifestyle choices and supplementation in their diets. However, many who are already there have not had the same advantages. Too many of our elders suffer from depression. Their diets are frequently devitalized, current health management is symptom relief rather than holistic-care and dramatic lifestyle changes occur when they are least equipped to handle them. Others have been forced into retirement because of chronic health problems or disabilities that may create additional care-taking responsibilities, sadness and loneliness. Any of these co-factors is enough to create depression, but when they occur simultaneously it is not surprising that people feel overwhelmed and unsupported.

Brain Food Dozens of nutrients can alter the biochemistry of the brain. Even slight deficiencies can result in common complaints such as fatigue, mood swings and depression. Key among these brain nutrients are the B vitamins. Their catalytic action includes oxidation (the body’s ability to provide fuel and supply the brain with its energy source, glucose). Without enough glucose, the brain cannot function properly and mental health problems can arise. According to Eric Braverman, MD, of the Princeton Brain Bio Center in Skillman, NJ and Charles Tkaca, MD of the North Nassau Mental Health Center in Manhattan, NY, people who are not getting enough of B6 (pyridoxine) and B12 frequently get a host of psychiatric and neurological symptoms like confusion, depression, fatigue and psychosis. Some preliminary studies on autopsied Alzheimer’s patients revealed deficiencies of boron, potassium, selenium, B6 and B12. The lack of essential vitamins along with excessive amounts of aluminum directly or indirectly predispose one to Alzheimer’s disease. The B vitamins are also known to be involved in the production of neurotransmitters dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine. These biochemicals allow brain cells to pass messages along their nerve pathways. Low serotonin levels can cause depression. The population that is currently approaching senior status will not be as accepting of the system as those before them. Our current elders have come through hard times and the depression. They are used to making do.

Baby boomers and their offspring are used to a more affluent lifestyle and will not settle for less. It’s obvious that in finding solutions for overcoming depression in seniors today, we are also helping those who are rapidly approaching their own senior years. The infinite wisdom of our provincial government of Manitoba decided to eliminate food made on site in local hospitals. Food is prepared and frozen in Toronto, sent to the hospitals and re-heated on the premises. Re-heated scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes and pasta are the most unappetizing foods I have ever seen. The obvious disgust of elderly patients is justified. This is a time when people need the best possible nourishment to maintain their strength and to heal. Offspring resort to bringing healthy food choices and vitamin supplements to parents because the system they pay for does not attend to one of the most important aspects of longevity--proper nutrition.

Some people have difficulty admitting sadness or guilt and prefer to withdraw into isolation. Symptoms of depression such as insomnia or sleeping frequently and for excessive periods of time; loss of appetite or ravenous appetite; headaches; blood sugar imbalances; backaches; gastro-intestinal upsets; feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy; irritability; and suicidal thoughts are often minimized and explained away as "getting old." This rationale does a great disservice to those in advancing years who accept their fate without question.

Working as a group facilitator and practitioner afforded me the opportunity to interact with people of all ages. I have had the pleasure of seeing another side to seniors through Creative Retirement Manitoba. Most of them take supplements, exercise and watch their diets. Their involvement with activities beyond their immediate family gives them independence and purpose. They have a commitment to lifelong learning and strive to feel in control. They interpret change as a challenge rather than a threat. Even those with health challenges are an inspiration. One woman has developed macular degeneration in her eyes and was not very mobile. She belonged to a computer club and refused to give up her favorite hobby. Her solution? Buy the biggest monitor she could and eventually go to voice recognition if she lost her sight completely!

To help prevent further degeneration she took eyebright (orally and eye drops) bilberry, vitamins A, C, E, B and zinc. It is this combination of nutrition, supplementation and attitude that prevents this group from allowing depression to take hold. Their approach to whole-person healing is an example that these methods work for anyone--at any age. Necessary Nutrients A new study has compared levels of omega-3 fats in healthy people with those diagnosed with depression. Levels of omega-3 were 40 per cent lower in patients with depression, on average. It isn’t known yet whether depression causes lower omega-3 deficiencies. Possibly it’s vice versa. One theory is that diets deficient in omega-3s make people more vulnerable.

With other risk factors a low omega-3 intake can push people over the edge. Salmon oil may be nature’s Prozac. Just one 85 gram serving of salmon provides almost two grams of omega-3 oil, 10 times our daily average. Flax seed and hemp seed oils are also excellent sources of omega-3s. Even a minor deficiency of vitamin C can affect mental health. Many seniors today don’t eat enough fresh fruits and vegetables to maintain vitamin C stores. They supplement their diets to compensate. St John’s wort is an important herb for replenishing the nervous system, especially when the brain seems depleted or when the nervous system is out of balance. It contains hypericin, a natural compound that has been shown in studies to help support the nervous system by minimizing the effects of minor depression. It is a safe and natural alternative to mood-altering drugs.

Light Cures for the Blues Most artificial light lacks essential wave lengths in much the same way that refined flour lacks certain vitamins and minerals. Lack of sunlight can also create a vitamin D deficiency. In a recent study participants supplementing their diets with 400 IU of vitamin D reported feeling more enthusiastic, inspired and alert than those who took a placebo. These preliminary studies led the experts to think vitamin D may affect levels of the mood-lifting brain chemical serotonin. Depression is not a normal part of aging. Despite the problems older people face, many are very satisfied with their lives. Those are the ones who are doing something to keep it that way! References: 1. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 119 (July); 60(1). 2. Biological Psychiatry, March 1, 1998. 3. Drugs and Aging 1998; 12.

For more information about healthy, dynamic living check out our Fresh Beginnings website at www.fresh-beginnings.com

TIPS TO STAY HEALTHY DURING COLD AND FLU SEASON

This is a copy of the article I wrote and was recently published in my column.

It provides some natural ways to stay healthy during the cold and flu season.

PERSPECTIVES ON HEALTHY LIVING

How to Stay Healthy Through the Cold and Flu Season

By CORALIE RAIA DARSEY-MALLOY

With growing concern over swine flu, many people are looking for natural, effective flu prevention and treatment. In my own healing journey and from working with clients in my life-coaching practice, I have found a variety of ways to prevent and treat flu and colds naturally.

My mentor, Dr. George Kroeker, told me that it is important to keep the body in balance and when illness occurs, to create ways to support the system so it can heal itself.

Widespread outbreaks of influenza usually occur from October to March. Both colds and flus are picked up by direct contact or by touching objects previously handled by an infected person. Viruses can be a concern but the majority of people who come down with them recover within a week or two. The doctor I see says that although many believe in the efficacy of vaccines, they do not guarantee protection against the flu and sometimes cause more harm than good. This may be especially true this fall as rushed production allows less time for safety testing.

When clients call asking for suggestions to treat colds and flu, I suggest caution when using painkillers normally used for headaches. Many of the pills and hot lemon drinks contain the same active ingredients and can overload the system. It is advisable to consult a health practitioner before self-prescribing over-the-counter remedies.

Given that there are no known cures for colds and viruses, my first recommendation is to minimize exposure and strengthen your immunity as the best way to stay healthy. Here are some of my “perspectives” on healthy living and flu prevention:

The Basics

• Get enough sleep. The immune system functions much better with seven to nine hours sleep for optimal health. When the body is fatigued, it is less able to ward off viruses and infections.

• Exercise moderately on a regular basis.

• Avoid sugar. Even small amounts of sugar can impair immune function, leaving you more susceptible to the flu.

• During cold weather, indoor heating systems dry out the mucous membranes in the nose and throat. It is important to keep them well hydrated by drinking more water. Using indoor water fountains or other methods to improve humidity, especially in the bedrooms, makes sense.

• Germs and viruses enter through the eyes, nose, mouth and, possibly, ears; so it is important to keep your distance from those who are infected and wash your hands frequently. It's also advisable to carry a hand sanitizer and use it after shaking hands or touching handles, payphones and doorknobs. A naturopath told me that coating the inside of the nostrils with sesame oil can help to prevent germs from entering the body.

• If you are sick, stay home to recover and to prevent spread to others. Muffle coughs and sneezes with the crook of the elbow rather than using bare hands or tissues. When tissues are used, dispose of them immediately and thoroughly sanitize the hands.

• Relax and maintain a positive attitude. Too much stress has a negative impact on health and mental well-being. Meditation and creative visualization can be explored for their calming effects.

• Reduce alcohol consumption. Alcohol depletes B vitamins, impairs liver function and creates greater susceptibility to infections. You might want to add a B-vitamin supplement to your regime.

• Avoid smoking, including second-hand smoke. Cigarette smoke dries out the nasal passages and paralyzes the small hairs in the nose and lungs that help ward off viruses.

• Take regular saunas as many Europeans do. The air in saunas is too hot for viruses to survive; thus steam and infrared saunas cleanse the system and provide immune boosting effects. However, people with heart conditions should consult their health care practitioner before using any form of intense heat therapy.

In my work as a life coach, I also suggest clients include a variety of flu-fighting and immune-boosting foods in their diets. Some of these are:

• A variety of dark green, red and yellow vegetables and fruits. These are packed with healthful nutrients.

• Fresh, raw or lightly cooked garlic has strong, natural antiviral properties. [Editor’s note: See View from the Veg, page 5, for more on garlic.]

• Green tea, like garlic, is known to improve immunity.

• Cayenne pepper is filled with vitamin A and acts as a catalyst for herbs and vitamins. (maybe delete)

• It is important to supplement with yogurt or acidophilus pills after a round of antibiotics in order to replenish friendly bacteria that have been wiped out in the course of treatment. This could be relevant for people who get the flu and are given antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections.

• Echinacea is a popular cold and flu remedy especially if taken early, before symptoms worsen.

• A number of people find vitamin C and zinc lozenges beneficial, especially zinc gluconate and zinc acetate.

Colds are Another Matter

Although the common cold is usually milder than the flu, it is still worth looking after. If you ignore symptoms and try to keep going as usual, it can turn into a worse illness. If you have underlying medical problems, it’s especially important to pay attention. Here are more ideas for self care:

• At the first sign of a sore throat, gargle with ½ teaspoon salt in warm water.

• Saline nasal drops as well as steam inhalations with sage, chamomile leaves, menthol and eucalyptus can help clear sinuses.

• Whenever early symptoms of a cold or flu appear, put two tablespoons each of dried sage leaves and whole cloves in a large pot and make a tea. Sipping it can soothe the throat and help fight infections.

• Vapour rubs, hot water bottles and soaks in a warm tub with one to two cups of Epsom salts can provide steam to stuffed nasal passages and relief for sore aching muscles.

• Lozenges with menthol, eucalyptus, honey and lemon may soothe an irritated throat.

• Tissues with moisturizers can help prevent sore skin around the nose. Lip balm soothes chapped lips.

• Traditional Chinese Medicine (herbal remedies and acupuncture) can effectively bring the body back into balance.

• The following cold remedy is a family recipe that provides immune boosting and cleansing properties. I choose to drink this brew undiluted but it can be modified by adding water or reducing individual ingredients.

4 C. water

2 T. fresh or ground ginger

½ t. cayenne

1 whole head of garlic

2 quartered lemons (wash first, rind on)

Maple syrup or honey to taste

Simmer 20 minutes. Add ½ cup of mixture to ½ cup warm water or to taste.

Coralie Raia Darsey-Malloy is a freelance photojournalist, life coach, group leader and public speaker and can be contacted through the Fresh Beginnings website, www.freshbeginnings.com.

HEALTHY CHOICE-MAKING FOR HEALTHY LIVING

By Coralie Raia Darsey-Malloy

Everyone wants independent choice…
whatever that may cost…
and wherever it may lead.

--Fyodor Dostroyevsky

When I began my quest for health and wholeness in the mid-eighties much of what has gained mainstream acceptance was considered ‘fringe new age thinking” and viewed with suspicion or flatly rejected. When David and I met in 1990 I made his head spin with my concern about the free radicals and high glycimic factor in his diet. I rambled on about that and the importance of low fat, moderate carbohydrate diet and using food combining as a way to lose weight. He and others patted me on the head and admitted that it all sounded a little too weird for them at the time. Now these ideas have been accepted and utilized by many because they are endorsed by researchers. The growing emphasis on healthy living has created less polarity within formal medicine and complimentary healing systems.

This trend has already started towards more sensitive patient care with a multitude of options that were not available even twenty years ago. The emerging changes in preventative health and wellness techniques can and does compliment today’s precision diagnostic services. Inevitably, professional patronizing, and obscure terminology will give way to cooperative educational approaches, and client-orientated therapies. Future medicine like future world politics, will increasingly acknowledge choice making and empowerment of the individual.

Even before these changes are fully implemented, there is much we can all do to optimize our health. Eating less and eating well are basic premises of preventative self- care. Avoiding the known health hazards of smoking, alcohol, fat, sugar, caffeine, salt and processed foods are another commonsense approach. Breakthroughs in health care reveal that many of the diseases and ailments being treated by symptom relief alone can be readily overcome with social and lifestyle changes.

A long, healthy life is a reasonable expectation under most conditions, and self-reliant health care involves one’s authority over their right to choose what they determine is best for them. As the paradigm of whole-person healing continues to evolve, the knowledge it brings not only liberates it unites people as well. Today personal fitness and healing practices once considered outlandish are gaining mainstream credibility—because they work. Large corporations are underwriting relaxation and stress management courses to reduce employee absenteeism. Insurance companies offer financial incentives to non-smokers and aerobic dancers. Healing in the 21st century will witness the final convergence of science and psychology, body and soul.

As science, medicine, the biology of emotion and thought, humor, health and healing attitudes are promoted as a plausible option to symptom relief, drug therapy, invasive procedures there will be more inclination to become well informed before choosing any course of treatment. New attitudes and modalities provide much hope in the form of simple, yet powerful whole-person self-care systems. They are often equally or more effective than prescriptions and are cost effective, encourage self-responsibility, do no harm, educational, fun and provide positive outcomes! So the good news is…there truly are many ways to achieve health, wholeness and abundant living for those willing to explore options and think outside the box.