CHANGE IN LIFESTYLE NUTRITION

A change in lifestyle needs to be all encompassing. Let's begin with nutrition.
It's important that you be aware of the effects that certain foods and chemicals have on your body. So I will begin with what I believe you should not eat. Here is the list:

1. Absolutely no artificial sweeteners of any kind, including agave. Most agave is highly processed. No diet drinks or diet foods.
2. No hydrogenated oils of any kind.
3. No processed foods. If it comes in a box try to avoid it.
4. No artificial colors or flavorings.
5. No wheat.
6. No grains which contain gluten.
7. Avoid all refined sugar.
8. Keep dairy intake to a minimum.

Take a trash bag and go through your cupboards and refrigerator. Take everything which is in the list above and put it in the bag. Look at the ingredients on the packages if you're not sure. Most packaged cookies and crackers contain hydrogenated oil and wheat. Definitely put them in the bag.

This may seem a bit extreme but it is time for you to take stock of how you are eating and as a result what is happening to your body. You need to eat foods which will nourish you and help you heal. I have told you what not to eat, now let's look at a list of what you need to be eating.

1. Organic greens-spinach, broccoli, kale, radicchio, romaine, and any other greens you like.
2. Organic orange and red colored vegetables- bell peppers, beets, and any other colorful vegetables you like.
3. Organic fruits-of all colors and flavors. Fruits for snacks in mid mornings and mid afternoons will nourish and pamper you throughout the day. If you choose fruits which are in season they will be sweet and will replace any craving you might have for a sweet snack.
4. Celtic salt or sea salt-these types of salts have nutrients which your body needs and have been minimally processed, unlike the processed salts.
5. Organic meats-chicken, pork, meat, and wild fish. If you eat meat make sure it is organic as much as possible.
6. Organic ghee-ghee is clarified butter and is believed to be very healing. May be used to cook in high heat.
7. Organic butter NOT margarine.
8. Organic cold pressed olive oil. It is not recommended to cook with olive oil as it begins to break down in high temperature. Use it in salads and even when baking, but not for frying. It is important that you eat oils. They are important forhealthy brain function.
9. Organic avocados, nuts and seeds. The oils in these are essential. Pumpkin seeds are considered to be exceptionally good for MS and the nervous system.
10. Green tea- organic if possible. You may have it as iced tea or hot tea. I always have a pitcher of green tea in my refrigerator. There are varieties sold which have fruit essence in them and are tasty enough to not have to add sugar.
11. Water-plenty of filtered water.
12. Organic beans-whichever you like. They are a great source of protein, especially if you are vegetarian.
13. If you need to use sugar, only use raw organic sugar. Try to keep the consumption of sugar to a minimum.
14.  You may be wondering about coffee. I don't see anything wrong with having coffee. Try to have organic coffee. Try to drink it in moderation.
15. I think you get the idea.

In addition:

Organic is best when you can find it. It may cost a little more, but what you'll find is that it is more satisfying and rich and that you won't need to eat as much as a result. Try to eat fresh whenever possible. That way you won't have any unwanted additives or chemicals in your meals. Do not avoid oils. If you eat the right kinds of oils/fats your body will be rejuvenated. Your brain needs the oils and fats. Observe how you feel. If you find that a certain food doesn't sit well with you, then avoid it. It may be that you have a sensitivity to it. It's important that you be aware of food's effect in your body. Maybe even keep a journal of what you eat during the day and how you feel at the end of the day. I believe that allergies and negative reactions to foods that we eat contribute to MS and other auto immune disorders. Listen closely to your body. 

1. Start your mornings with a warm cup of lemon and water. This will make your body alkaline and set the tone for the day.
2. Take a half teaspoon of organic turmeric and one teaspoon of raw honey and mix them together. The turmeric is an amazing anti inflammatory among other incredible properties and the honey is also very healing.
3. Take vitamin D-3 every day.
4. If you are on medication take milk thistle. The medicines such as Avonex are very hard on the liver. The milk thistle helps the liver to process and eliminate the chemicals and stay healthy.
5. Take a fish oil capsule daily.
6. Take a vitamin B complex. This supports a healthy nervous system. If you are vegetarian, chances are you aren't getting enough vitamin B-12 or the others as well, and is essential that you have them. 

Once you begin implementing the changes in eating and adding the supplements, you will notice a change within a month. You will find yourself feeling lighter and stronger. Your digestion will become regular. Your skin and your hair will begin to feel healthier. And this is the first step to loving yourself and being compassionate with your body.

At the time of eating take time to eat. I am not asking you to be religious, but before starting to eat be aware that you are very, very lucky to have food on your plate. Be grateful for that. Then eat in as serene an environment as possible. Take the opportunity to taste and experience your food. The gift of your food. Try not to ever eat in anger. Take meal time as an important part of the day for you and for your family to enjoy and share. This will give the food you eat the ability to act as a nourishing and healing agent. Always, always bring the awareness to how grateful you are for the food you are able to have. Gratitude is that state which brings change to your life in a positive way.