DECEMBER 31, 2025 NEW STRENGTH, NEW THOUGHTS

Throughout the last 15 years of writing this blog, I have tried to educate. I love to write and I love to teach. I also feel it is important to learn. I personally try to learn something new each day. For me it keeps my mind active. A lot has happened to each of us over this last 15 years. There has been loss- loss of a loved one, loss of a job, loss of a relationship and even loss of oneself. There also have been gains - as a new birth, a new job and new relationships. This is the ever changing lives we all have. - Life is a twisted ball of yarn ( or threads) as in my case. It is Life on Life’s Terms

As the year ends I have one more thought. What do you eat before you go to sleep ? Eating the wrong snack has potential health implications, but more than that, it could disrupt your sleep pattern or cause digestive issues throughout the night. Do not eat a fatty foods before bed. High-fat foods are bad for your waistline and can harm your sleep. These foods are high in calories and can lead to weight gain, linked to sleep disorders like sleep apnea and snoring. They can also cause digestive discomfort and make it harder for your body to fall asleep. Fatty foods require more work to digest

Try not to have a caffeinated beverage before sleep Caffeine is a powerful stimulant that can have a significant impact on sleep. It works by blocking the action of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes sleep and suppresses arousal. This can lead to increased alertness, improved mood, and better cognitive performance, but it can also make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep.

It is hard to say this at this time of the year, but alcohol is not good before sleep. For me , it is easy I will be 32 years sober in June 2026. While alcohol can make you feel relaxed and drowsy, it can also interfere with your natural sleep cycle and cause sleep disturbances. Alcohol is a sedative that can help you fall asleep faster, but it can also disrupt the quality of your sleep

My suggestion are foods high in tryptophan One of the best options for a sleep-friendly snack is foods high in tryptophan, an amino acid that promotes the production of serotonin and melatonin, the hormones that regulate sleep. Foods that are high in tryptophan include turkey, chicken, fish, nuts, and seeds. These foods can help you feel more relaxed and drowsy

I wish you all a Happy and Healthy New Year 2026

Until we meet again.

DECEMBER 30, 2025 OUR KIDNEYS

As we get older so do our kidneys. There are major illnesses that can cause kidney damage such as diabetes and heart disease. But so can food and diets. Maintaining healthy kidneys is crucial for overall well-being, as they play a vital role in filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood. Diet significantly impacts kidney function, and consuming certain foods can lead to kidney damage or exacerbate existing conditions.

We di knoiw that processed foods are good for no one. Processed foods are often laden with high levels of sodium, which can put a significant strain on your kidneys. Excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure, a leading cause of kidney damage. Common processed foods such as chips, canned soups, and ready-to-eat meals are particularly high in sodium and should be avoided.

Excessive protein can cause more kidney ( renal damage ) Red meat consumption has been linked to an increased risk of kidney disease due to its high protein content. While protein is essential for the body, excessive amounts can overwork the kidneys and lead to damage over time. Studies have shown that diets high in red meat can accelerate the progression of kidney disease Certain blood types as O, cannot tolerate a lot of red meat where as Blood type O can eat more meat This all depends on your renal function ( kidney function )

I do not know many individuals who still consume soda as a beverage. Sugary drinks are another major culprit when it comes to kidney damage. High sugar intake can lead to conditions like diabetes and obesity, both of which are significant risk factors for kidney disease. Beverages such as sodas, energy drinks, and sweetened fruit juices are packed with sugar and can contribute to kidney stress It should be water , water and more water

No pink, blue or yellow sugar packets Artificial sweeteners, commonly found in diet sodas and sugar-free products, may seem like a healthy alternative to sugar, but they can pose risks to your kidneys. Research has indicated that some artificial sweeteners can lead to kidney function decline when consumed in large quantities. Products containing sweeteners like aspartame, saccharin, and sucralose should be consumed with caution, especially for individuals with preexisting kidney conditions. Even stevia could lead to a problem It always 10 years after each of these products were released that we should them to be hazardous to your health.

Until tomorrow…

DECEMBER 29, 2025 FEED YOUR BRAIN

We are over one holiday now. Did you eat to nourish your brain at this time Probably not. We most likely ate too many carbohydrates in cakes, and cookies and maybe you indulged in alcohol. So now for the new year approaching - start eating certain fruits for your brain. Fruits stand out for their rich array of nutrients, offering a natural and delicious way to support brain health.

You need to start to know about fruits with antioxoiant properties. In my humble opinion, the best fruits are always berries. Raspberries are a powerhouse of nutrients, offering a rich blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential for brain health. These berries are particularly high in flavonoids, compounds known for their potent antioxidant properties The specific impact of raspberries on cognitive abilities is also noteworthy. Regular consumption of these berries has been linked to improved memory, attention, and motor skills. Studies suggest that the phytonutrients present in raspberries can enhance neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new connections and pathways, I usually add blueberries to my yogurt and honey. Sometimes a little gluten free granola.

The next fruit to add is Pomegranate. The antioxidants in pomegranate are punicalagin and tannins These are highly effective in fighting oxidative stress, a key factor in the aging process of the brain. By combating oxidative damage, pomegranates help in maintaining the health and functionality of brain cells. I add the seeds to salads/ This weekend I was introduced to add pomegranate seeds to a mocktail

The last fruit to add are varied. I want to add a fruit with a lot of Vitamin C. Most of these fruit are citrus and also contain sugar. Oranges contain an abundance of Vitamin C Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps in defending the brain against free radical damage. This vitamin is also essential for the repair and maintenance of brain tissue, and it plays a key role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters. Studies suggest that the flavonoids in oranges may help in preventing neurodegenerative diseases by reducing inflammation and supporting the overall health of brain cells.

There are many fruits to help your brain health. First choice is always berries

Until tomorrow…

DECEMBER 24, 2025 EAT MORE VEGGIES

When it comes to eating healthy, most people know that vegetables and fruits are an excellent place to start. Trade the carbohydrates for fruits and vegetables.

There are a wide variety of fruits and vegetables that are healthy. Bananas may have lots of sugar, but they are packed with nutritional value This fruit contains tons of nutrients that can improve your health in several ways. For example, bananas can help to improve digestion by promoting regularity and relieving symptoms of stomach upset, such as cramping and bloating In addition, Bananas help to boost your immune system and fight inflammation. This yellow fruit contains vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium.

I love artichokes at this time of the year It reminds me of Holiday dinners peeling the skins of an artichoke. Remember Our Gang films when Stymie ate an artichoke. ? Artichokes improve digestion and reduce cholesterol levels. Artichokes are a good source of fiber, which helps to move food through the digestive system and prevents constipation. They also contain a compound called cynarin, which stimulates bile production.

Now, you must afdd beets to your diet. One of the most significant health benefits of beetroot is its ability to improve digestion. Beetroot is high in fiber, which helps to keep the digestive system running smoothly. Additionally, the high water content of beetroot helps to keep the intestines hydrated, reducing the risk of constipation. Beetroot is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and manganese Beets also lower blood pressure.

Then there is the celery craze. Celery is a fibrous vegetable that is composed of 95% water. It is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate. Additionally, celery is a rich source of antioxidants and phytonutrients. These substances protect against cancer and other chronic diseases. Celery also contains a substance called luteolin, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. I use lots of celery juice made fresh for the patient with chronic fatigue syndrome (exposure to Epstein Barr Infection) This is through the books of Anthony Williams, “ The Medical Medium “

You see there are many beneficial fruits and vegetables. Stop the refined carbohydrates and processed foods. Eat Healthy !

Until tomorrow…

DECEMBER 23, 2025 HERBS IN YOUR KITCHEN

They're powerful anti-inflammatory compounds found in everyday herbs and spices. These herbs fight the chronic inflammation that's often at the root of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, and cancer. They're powerful anti-inflammatory compounds found in everyday herbs and spices in your kitchen ( if you are like me ) there are a bunch of compounds found in food that can help balance out inflammatory pathways. Components such as long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, plant flavonoids, prebiotics, and probiotics can all reduce inflammation. Chronic inflammation leads cancer, diabetes, heart disease and much more

Herbs and spices, in particular, are rich sources of bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These include polyphenols, flavonoids, and other phytochemicals, known for neutralizing free radicals These are common herbs/spices as ginger, green tea, curcumin, garlic and hundreds more. You probably have these in your kitchen

The best for me is tumeric ( Curcuma longa ) the curcuminoids and turmerones in curcumin work to reduce inflammation and boost your body’s defenses. Thewn there is Ginger (Zingiber officinale) powder retains the powerful anti-inflammatory properties of the fresh root, thanks to its concentrated gingerols, abundant shogaols, and complementary compounds like zingerone and paradols. There are two types on cinnamon. Cassia and Ceylon. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), whose Latin name means “true cinnamon,” has much lower levels of coumarin, making it a preferable choice for regular use.

Beyond this distinction, cinnamon, particularly Ceylon, is celebrated for its wide array of health advantages beyond controlling inflammation, including supporting healthy blood sugar levels and heart health, and providing antioxidant, digestive, and cognitive benefits.

These are just a few herbs/spices in your kitchen Start reading about herbs

Until tomorrow…

DECEMBER 17, 2025 A NEW LEAF AND AWARENESS

The New Year is the perfect opportunity to turn over a new leaf and leave behind the habits that no longer serve you. Bad habits (Nicotene, food, apps, alcohol, drugs, sex , perfectionism ) often sneak into your daily routines without you realizing their effects on your health, happiness, and success. Breaking free from these patterns requires awareness, determination, and practical strategies . It is not an easy task to accomplish It takes the 4 A’s : awareness, acknowledgement, acceptance and action

Stop feeling overwhelmed. Just get to it. Procrastination is a common habit that can quietly sabotage your goals and create unnecessary stress. Delaying tasks often leads to missed opportunities and feelings of guilt, which can impact your mental health

“NO” is a complete sentence. Taking on too much can leave you feeling stretched thin, overwhelmed, and unable to give your best effort to anything. Overcommitment often comes from a desire to please others Also “ What part of ‘ no’ didn’t you understand. There are some people in this world who are ‘ givers’ Giving feels good but often at his or her own cost

I am guilty of spending too much Many people struggle with financial habits that lead to unnecessary stress and instability. Impulse spending, neglecting savings, and failing to track expenses are common pitfalls that can leave you living paycheck to paycheck. These habits often stem from a lack of financial literacy or emotional spending.

Yoiu must learn how to eat healthy You can follow Eat Right for Yoiur Blood Type. If you need help seek a certified nutritionist. You must break the sugar habit. Unhealthy eating habits can be hard to break, especially when convenience foods dominate your diet. Processed snacks, sugary drinks, and fast food often provide quick satisfaction but lack the nutrients your body needs to function optimally. Over time, these choices can lead to weight gain, low energy, and an increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.

You must consider stopping addictive habits as nicotine, drugs and alcohol. These are deadly Lastly addictive to technology has taken away family time and interactions with family and friends. Excessive screen time has become a modern challenge, impacting both mental health and personal relationships. Constantly scrolling through social media, binge-watching shows, or checking emails at all hours can leave you feeling disconnected and exhausted

Please change as part of the New Year 2026

Until tomorrow…

DECEMBER 16, 2025 DO YOU EAT HEALTHY ?

Let’s be real- there are less than 10 days left before Christmas We all w3e eat something we shouldn’t be having. There are some foods we should incorporate into our dietary lifestyle

We should add hemp seeds,. Here’s why They are y valuable for their anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health Hemp seeds also provide satiating protein and fiber, along with essential minerals like magnesium, iron, and zinc Sprinkle them on your cereal in the morning or even on your salad

Everyone should eat some berries in their diet I love blueberries, raspberries and strawberries All berries offer powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that support brain and digestive health

The other food is Sweet Potatoes. Sweet Potatoes contains beta-carotene, a pigment that turns into vitamin A in the body. This is noteworthy because vitamin A plays a crucial role in maintaining eye health and immune function

Get to love Chickpeas Chickpeas . Chickpeas have fiber which is an essential nutrient for managing blood sugar, cholesterol, and gut health. Other noteworthy nutrients in chickpeas include folate, iron, zinc, and manganese.

Until tomorrow…

DECEMBEF 10, 2025 INFLAMMATION

Inflammation leads to disease Inflammation is a natural defense mechanism, but when it becomes chronic, it quietly damages the body from the inside out. Many people associate inflammation with visible signs like swelling or redness, but the real danger lies in the silent, internal process that can lead to conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, and even cancer.

Forget the pink,, blue and yellow sweeteners. Artificial sweeteners are marketed as a healthier alternative to sugar, yet they often come with hidden consequences. Common additives like aspartame and sucralose can disrupt the gut microbiome, which plays a key role in controlling inflammation. Why don’t you try honey to sweeten your coffee ?

I do not recommend vegetable oils to cook with or even use. Vegetable oils such as corn, soybean, and sunflower oil are found in countless processed foods and are often used in home cooking. While these oils are rich in omega-6 fatty acids, excessive intake can create an imbalance in the body’s ratio of omega-6 to omega-3. This imbalance promotes the production of inflammatory chemicals that can lead to long-term health problems.

As far as processed foods— Have you been resading the effects for the last twenty years. Packaged baked goods may look innocent but often contain harmful ingredients that worsen inflammation. Trans fats, frequently found in pastries and cookies, are especially dangerous because they raise bad cholesterol and lower good cholesterol. These changes can trigger the body’s inflammatory response and increase the risk of chronic illness

Eat fresh vegetables, not packaged. Buy quality fish, meat, eggs Be smart

Until tomorrow…