Did you know that in Medieval England parents would tie rabbits’ feet around their babies’ necks to ward off illness? Doctors would also spit on wounds because saliva was believed to have healing properties.

Indeed, history is replete with unfounded health beliefs, and to everyone’s detriment, the milk myth is among the most tenacious.

Milk is much more than just a drink; it’s a cultural phenomenon that can be traced back thousands of years ago. And still today, the milk myth resonates loud and clear: in 2001, the average American child consumed 104 quarts of cow’s milk.

Milk depletes the calcium from your bones

The milk myth has spread around the world based on the flawed belief that this protein and calcium-rich drink is essential to support good overall health and bone health in particular at any age. It is easy to understand that the confusion about milk’s imaginary benefits stems from the fact that it contains calcium – around 300 mg per cup.

But many scientific studies have shown an assortment of detrimental health effects directly linked to milk consumption. And the most surprising link is that not only do we barely absorb the calcium in cow’s milk (especially if pasteurized), but to make matters worse, it actually increases calcium loss from the bones. What an irony this is!

Here’s how it happens. Like all animal protein, milk acidifies the body pH which in turn triggers a biological correction. You see, calcium is an excellent acid neutralizer and the biggest storage of calcium in the body is – you guessed it… in the bones. So the very same calcium that our bones need to stay strong is utilized to neutralize the acidifying effect of milk. Once calcium is pulled out of the bones, it leaves the body via the urine, so that the surprising net result after this is an actual calcium deficit.

Knowing this, you’ll understand why statistics show that countries with the lowest consumption of dairy products also have the lowest fracture incidence in their population (there’s more on this later).

But the sad truth is that most mainstream health practitioners ignore these proven facts. I know it firsthand because when I was diagnosed with osteoporosis, my doctor recommended that I drink lots of milk in addition to taking Fosamax.

Fortunately, I did neither, because I knew that…

Cow’s milk is custom-designed for calves

Thanks to our creative ingenuity and perhaps related to our ancient survival needs, we adopted the dubious habit of drinking another species’ milk. Nobody can dispute that cow’s milk is an excellent food source for calves. Weighing around 100 pounds at birth, a calf typically gains approximately eight times its weight by the time it is weaned. But unlike humans, once calves are weaned, they never drink milk again. And the same applies to every mammalian species on this planet.

Also, each mammalian species has its own “designer” milk, and cow’s milk is no exception. For example, cow’s milk contains on average three times the amount of protein than human milk which creates metabolic disturbances in humans that have detrimental bone health consequences.

It’s important to bear in mind that mother’s milk is excellent nourishment for human babies, but its composition is very different from cow’s milk.

Scientific studies show that milk increases fracture risk

Many scientific studies contradict the conventional wisdom that milk and dairy consumption help reduce osteoporotic fractures. Surprisingly, studies demonstrating that milk and dairy products actually fail to protect bones from fractures outnumber studies that prove otherwise. Even drinking milk from a young age does not protect against future fracture risk but actually increases it. Shattering the “savings account” calcium theory, Cumming and Klineberg report their study findings as follows:

“Consumption of dairy products, particularly at age 20 years, was associated with an increased risk of hip fracture in old age. (“Case-Control Study of Risk Factors for Hip Fractures in the Elderly”. American Journal of Epidemiology. Vol. 139, No. 5, 1994).

And the 12 year long Harvard Nurses’ Health Study found that those who consumed the most calcium from dairy foods broke more bones than those who rarely drank milk. This is a broad study based on 77,761 women aged 34 through 59 years of age.

In the authors’ own words:

“These data do not support the hypothesis that higher consumption of milk or other food sources of calcium by adult women protects against hip or forearm fractures.” (Source: Feskanich D, Willett WC, Stampfer MJ, Colditz GA. Milk, dietary calcium, and bone fractures in women: a 12-year prospective study. American Journal of Public Health. 1997).

Shocking statistics ignored by mainstream medicine

In the Save Our Bones Program one of the topics I discuss is the complete disregard of scientific evidence that discredits milk and dairy products as the best source of calcium.

One exception is Amy Lanou Ph.D., nutrition director for the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine in Washington, D.C., who states that:

“The countries with the highest rates of osteoporosis are the ones where people drink the most milk and have the most calcium in their diets. The connection between calcium consumption and bone health is actually very weak, and the connection between dairy consumption and bone health is almost nonexistent.”

Surprised? You shouldn’t be, because as I mentioned earlier in this article…

Milk is an acidifying animal protein

Like any other animal derived protein-rich food, milk has a positive potential renal acid load (PRAL) which triggers a protective biological reaction to neutralize all the damaging acidic protein before it reaches the kidneys.

The body is designed for survival, so it sacrifices bone density to protect the kidneys and urinary tract because the latter are essential to survival. And the most readily available source of acid neutralizer is in the bones. So even though milk contains calcium, it ends up sapping your bones of that crucial mineral. But that’s not all because…

Today’s milk is a processed food

Until the end of the 19th century in Europe and the beginning of the 20th century in the US, milk was consumed unpasteurized or raw. Later on, homogenization became the industry’s standard. These processes further alter milk’s chemistry and actually increase its detrimental acidifying effects.

Raw milk advocates claim that if cow’s milk is left “as is” it is a healthy and wholesome drink. It is true that raw milk is less acidifying than processed milk and that pasteurization and homogenization may cause a long list of digestive and other health problems, but I still don’t recommend drinking any kind of cow’s milk.

Nowadays, milking cows are given antibiotics and most are also injected with a genetically engineered form of bovine growth hormone (rBGH). A man-made or synthetic hormone used to artificially increase milk production, rBGH also increases blood levels of the insulin-growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in those who drink it. And higher levels of IGF-1 are linked to several cancers.

This should not be ignored, especially in view of recent information by Samuel Epstein, MD, Professor of Environmental Medicine at the University of Illinois School of Public Health, and Chairman of the Cancer Prevention Coalition. In an article titled “Monsanto’s Hormonal Milk Poses Serious Risks of Breast Cancer, Besides Other Cancers” (http://www.preventcancer.com/press/releases/july8_98.htm, June 21, 1998) Dr. Epstein concludes that:

“Drinking rBGH milk would thus be expected to significantly increase IGF-1 blood levels and consequently to increase risks of developing breast cancer and promoting its invasiveness.”

Even though organic milk is from cows that are not given antibiotics or rBHG, if you truly care about your bone health and your overall health, you should…

Avoid drinking cow’s milk

As I explain in the Save Our Bones Program and contrary to mainstream recommendations, drinking milk and eating lots of dairy products are not the answer to reversing osteoporosis. And while in the Save Our Bones Program no food is completely off limits, I strongly recommend that you explore the different milk substitute options that I will list for you here.

But first, I’d like to clarify that unsweetened fermented or cultured dairy products such as yogurt, kefir, and sour cream are acid neutral. Yogurt in particular is chock-full of beneficial qualities. As is the case with milk, organic yogurt does not have rBGH, but even several of the most well-known yogurt brands have stopped using the bovine growth hormone (rBGH). You should call your favorite yogurt company to confirm. One more clarification: when I say unsweetened I mean without sugar or any artificial sweetener. However, you can add honey or stevia, a zero calorie plant-derived sweetener that is delicious and alkalizing as well. I like to carry around stevia packets in my purse so that I’m always able to sweeten food or drinks when I’m on the go.

The best milk substitutes

My favorite milk substitute is unsweetened almond milk, not only because it is alkalizing (as almonds are), but also because it’s delicious and tastes very similar to milk. I even cook with it!

If almond milk is hard to get, you can also try rice or soy milk. I strongly suggest consuming only organic soy milk to insure it’s not made with genetically modified soy. There is also some controversy about unfermented soy products, so try to use it in moderation.

And remember, if you ever hear someone ask “Got milk?” smile and think to yourself “No, because I know better!”

From 60 Minutes – Dr. Sanjay Gupta reports on new research showing that beyond weight gain, sugar can take a serious toll on your health, worsening conditions ranging from heart disease to cancer.

Happy Spring! Due to the launch of Forza and the Lee Kemp Documentary opening at the 2012 Olympics in London, our class schedule with 12 new classes will go into effect on June 4, 2012 just in time for summer. Get your long and lean Pilates body on! Sign up today to reserve your space. Our classes are limited to 7 students. Remember to join us for the current Pilates schedule on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday at 10am and Saturday at 8am.  Mia is offering a free introductory Pilates class the first Saturday of every month from 12:00-1:30 bring a friend too! Please call Fitness Arts at 847-397-2787 or email info@fitnessarts.org.

Fitness Arts Pilates Schedule
We have group classes on the Pilates reformer and other equipment taught by certified instructors six days a week. Learn to incorporate efficient breathing and alignment for better posture, pain free movement and prepare the body for maximum toning.

Beginner/ Intermediate
Now you can transform your entire body with the spring resistance of a Reformer and a Fitness Arts workout developed especially for you by Master Instructor Trainer Mia Scheid. Designed to get maximum results in minimum time, these efficient moves on the Reformer will work all muscle groups and help you achieve a longer, leaner-looking “Pilates body.”

Advanced
Pilates advanced Reformer program will challenge even the most highly trained athlete. By increasing speed and maintaining fluidity the intensity of the workout strengthens the entire body. This is an ideal workout for personal training and performance enhancement.

Pilates Schedule
New Classes start the week of 6/4/12

Monday

• 9-10am         Colette        Beginner & Intermediate

Tuesday

• 9-10am        Karen         Beginner & Intermediate
• 10-11am    Karen        Beginner & Intermediate
• 5-6pm        Karen         Beginner & Intermediate

Wednesday

• 9-10am        Karen         Beginner & Intermediate
• 10-11am     Mia         Advanced No class on 7/4

Thursday

• 9-10am         Colette        Beginner & Intermediate
• 10-11am    Colette         Beginner & Intermediate
• 5-6pm        Karen         Beginner & Intermediate

Friday

• 9-10am         Karen        Beginner & Intermediate
• 10-11am    Karen         Beginner & Intermediate

Saturday

• 8-9am        Mia         All Levels 6/9-7/28

1. WATER is the most important thing we can do to have beautiful skin. We need 4 liters every day! Our bodies use 2 liters each and every day just to breathe…

2. SLEEP is the second most important thing we can do for the beauty of our skin. Minimum requirement is 5 uninterrupted hours.

3. GREEN TEA BAGS soothe and calm puffy eyes. Soak the tea bags in 1 cup of water and 1 tsp of Pink Salt and place them in your refrigerator. Apply tea bags (wet not dripping) to eyes prior to bed for 8-10 minutes to help deflate puffiness and alleviate dark circles.

4. STEAM FROM YOUR SHOWER will allow your skin to absorb moisture from the atmosphere more effectively. Trap the steam and apply facial and body moisturizer to help your skin stay hydrated.

5. SUN EXPOSURE: avoid the hours between 10-2 because that’s when the sun’s rays are the strongest.

6. NUTRITION: there’s no question that diet is fundamental to beautiful skin. Foods like celery, watermelon, cucumber and parsley have a natural diuretic effect which will reduce puffiness. Eat LOTS of fresh veggies!

7. AVOID spicy, salty foods and caffeinated beverages as these items may cause facial redness as well as trigger risacea.

8. EXERCISE rates right up there with WATER and SLEEP. While it is vital to overall good health to exercise, remember to keep your body hydrated before, during and after exercise. Add 1/2 tsp of Pink Salt to your 16 oz water bottles to balance electrolytes lost during intense workouts.

The Flush Day (Friday or Saturday)

Items you’ll need are:

• 2 Lemons and 2 limes for citrus juices
• 1 Lemon for Epsom salts drink
• 1 quart of Grapefruit Juice
• 1 quart of Orange Juice
• ½ gallon of purified water
• Apple Juice (24 oz. to mix with water. About 2:1 or 3:1)
• Epsom Salts  – 5 tablespoons (Epsom salts can be found in drug stores and most health food stores)
• Premier Olive Oil – ½ cup (available at fitness arts)
• Gallbladder Clear – 15 capsules (available at fitness arts)
• Gallbladder Complex and Magnesium Sulfate (keep on hand)
• 2 pint jars with lids or similar
• You may also use oranges and lemons if you cannot tolerate grapefruit.
• Castor Pack, heating pad or hot water bottle, plastic bag, old towel or sheet
• 2-3 quarts freshly juiced, organic apples (optional for those who choose to fast today)
• Betaine HCL (optional) – Excellent to take with the Flush Drink to avoid nausea.

TO DO: Saturday

1. Start by drinking a liter of water with ½ tsp of Pink Salt when you awake first thing in the morning.
2. Drink 4 liters of water daily. I prepare these the night before

• 1^st liter of water is mixed with 1 tsp of Pink Salt and on my nightstand so I can have easy access upon arising.
• 2^nd liter is mixed with 2 tsp of Max Stress B to take with me to work so I can drink it throughout the day.
• 3^rd liter is mixed with ½ tsp of Pink Salt also to take with me to work so I can drink it throughout the day.
• 4^th liter is typically just pure water that I drink once I get home after work.

3. Dry skin brush for 5-10 minutes before you shower
4. Get plenty of sleep (minimum of 5 continuous hours between 11 pm & 5 am)
5.     20-30 minutes of aerobic exercise. Try to get a brisk walk in the morning, if not able to do so, walk when you get home from work. Have a pair of walking shoes in your car. Lower you stress level and increase your positive attitude by taking a walk after work.

ONE DAY FAST

This one day juice fast is so easy, that virtually everybody can do it without the extra drama of the longer ones. It doesn’t require a serious plan yet it is very effective. It’s a great detox for your body and it gives your digestive system the long awaited break at least for a day. You can repeat this one day juice fast for several days in a row if you wish. For those of you who want to lose a few pounds, you can lose 1-3 pounds per day!

I recommend starting with the one day juice fast once per week for at least for 2 months. It is also a great full year detox – one day juicing fast every week, or even every month works wonders for your body and health.

1. Start by drinking either lime/lemon water by squeezing a fresh lime or lemon into 16 oz. of warm water followed by Probiotic supplement. This helps to clean the intestines. Follow with another 16 oz. bottle of water with ½ tsp of Pink Salt and drink.

2. Drink 4 liters of water daily. Prepare these the night before

• 1^st liter of water is mixed with 1 tsp of Pink Salt and on my nightstand so I can have easy access upon arising.
• 2^nd liter is mixed with 2 tsp of Max Stress B to take with me to work so I can drink it throughout the day.
• 3^rd liter is mixed with ½ tsp of Pink Salt also to take with me to work so I can drink it throughout the day.
• 4^th liter is typically just pure water that I drink once I get home after work.

3. Dry skin brush for 5-10 minutes before you shower

4. Make a smoothie for breakfast by combining the following ingredients:

• ¼ cup of Brooming Powder, 1 tsp EFA Oil, 1 tsp Flax Oil and 3 drops of Vitamin D3 (available at Fitness Arts)
• 1 cup of Apple Juice
• 1 cup of purified water

5. Pick one fruit or vegetable combination for the day and stick with it. Choose in season products. My personal favorites apples, carrots, beetroot and ginger.

6. Dilute the juice with some spring water to avoid raising your blood sugar levels.

7. Drink 3 cups of fresh made juice for the day replacing breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack . Drink slowly.

8. Don’t forget to drink water. Your body needs 4 liters per day. I add the following to each liter and drink daily: 1^st liter: ½ tsp to 1 tsp of Pink Salt, 2^nd liter: 1 tsp of Greens Mix Powder and 2 drops of Peppermint Oil, 3^rd liter: 2 tsp of Max Stress B

9. It’s best to make the juice right before drinking, however, you can juice enough for the day and take with you in a thermos.

10. The idea behind this fast is to give your digestive system a break. Don’t eat. Juice… If you feel hungry, drink more juice, water, tea, clear broth. During the fast, avoid smoking, alcohol, coffee, black tea, caffeinated beverage. You can drink lemon or lime water and herb teas.

11. Workday may be easier to fast as your mind will be occupied by work at hand. Weekends tend to be more social and food is typically involved. Temptation is unwelcome during a fast.

12. Plan ahead for your evening. A good movie, a nice book, a nice distraction. Temptations are the worst in the evening. Remember, you can eat in the morning.

13. Make sure your fridge and pantry is not full with things you love to eat or snack. I suggest that you box up any tempting dry snacks.  Tape up the box. Put it out of site. Don’t temp yourself.

14. Do light workouts! I suggest a 30-60 minute brisk walk or similar exercise in the morning if possible. Do not exhaust yourself.

15. Make your one day juicing fast a tradition and repeat it every week. Your body will transform in just a few months and you will be glad that you did!

16. Start you next day with 16 oz of lemon/lime water followed by the smoothie. Plan on having a small piece of protein and some veggies for lunch and dinner. Use fruits as snacks. Avoid processed foods.

17. Detox tea – few pieces fresh ginger steeped in hot water, fresh squeezed lemon, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp raw honey

Saturday Directions:

Anytime after you arise and before noon: Do not eat this morning and Stay close to home.

1. Dissolve 1 TBS of Epsom salts to 1 cup of warm water and drink. This will induce laxative effect.
2. Stay near home/bathroom.
3. Mix juice of 2 lemons, 1 quart of Grapefruit Juice and 1 Qt of water and drink approx 1 cup every 30 minutes until finished
4. The citrus mixture will activate bowel movements. If you are not eliminating after a few hours, repeat step #1 and drink more clear fluids.
5. Mix juice of 2 limes, 1 Qt of Orange Juice and 1 Qt of water and drink approx 1 cup every30 minutes until finished
6. Urge to eliminate should occur each time you drink the citrus mixture.
7. Drink as much clear fluids; water and herbal teas as you want.
8. DO NOT EAT TODAY
9. Around 9:30 pm or earlier if you want to retire sooner:
   • Mix ¾ cup of Oliver Oil with 1 cup of Grapefruit Juice in a blender
   • Use a thick straw and drink immediately
   • Go to bed and lie down on your right side, you may feel queasy within 15-30 minutes after you drink the Olive Oil mixture. Be still, breathe and try to sleep. It will pass shortly.
   • You may have slept very well or you may have had a restless night. Hopefully you didn’t vomit but even if you did, you will benefit from the olive oil that you were able to metabolize.  You may have also had a bowel movement or two.

Sunday:

1. Upon arising

• If you did not have a bowel movement, dissolve 1 TBS of Epsom salts to 1 cup of warm water and drink.
• Continue to drink clear fluids such as herbal teas or water with a lemon or lime wedge.
• Coffee Enema. Instruction is available on our website—–
• Drink shakes every 3 hours (up to 5 per day for up to 3 days)

¼ cup of Brooming Powder

1 cup Apple Juice

1/2 tsp each Flax Oil and EFA Oil

2 drop D3

• 3.     Drink other clear fluids such as water, herbal teas and vegetable broth with pink salt.
• Please use our Fitness Arts facebook page if you have any questions or concerns. I will be checking it often and will answer your questions.

Happy flushing!!

Mia

Stay tuned for Rejuvenation Week protocols

Caution: If you are chronically ill, have symptoms of gallbladder disease check with your health care practitioner before trying this program. The Liver/Gallbladder Flush is not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing.  Do not proceed with this cleanse if you are feeling ill, have a fever, cold-like symptoms, or have not had a bowel movement in a few days.

The information provides a simple overview of the preparations involved before starting the Liver/Gallbladder Flush, goes into the specifics about the cleansing and detoxification routines that will be necessary afterward. This will be most beneficial for those who have never been through a Liver Flush or for those who have used other Liver Flush protocols in the past with little success

In preparation for the Liver/Gallbladder flush next weekend, please follow these instructions carefully. Liver/Gallbladder Flush is fairly easy to do, however, it is important to understand the process. Preparing your body for a major cleanse is imperative. Tomorrow begins the 5 day pre-cleanse protocol. The 6^th day (Saturday) will be the Liver/Gallbladder Flush day where you will consume the olive oil, and the 7^th day (Sunday) will be the day to eliminate the gallstones and bile sludge from your system.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!!

Chronic dehydration causes both gallstone and kidney stone formation.  If the liver is dehydrated it cannot produce sufficient bile necessary for digestion, and if the kidneys are dehydrated they cannot properly maintain fluid and electrolyte balance, regulate blood pressure, and adequately filter the blood. Chronic dehydration of these two organs by can cause severe imbalances within the body.  Remember, if you are dehydrated during this cleansing routine, your cells will not be able to adequately clear accumulated toxins. Instead of removing wastes, the cells and organs will accumulate more, and your efforts will be disappointing.

If you are chronically ill, recuperating from an illness, or dehydrated, it is not recommended to follow through with the Liver/Gallbladder Flush until you have restored adequate hydration. Start by increasing one liter of water more per day than you usually drink until you are drinking at least 4 liters.  If you are active and exercise regularly you will need to increase your water intake even more. Drinking alcohol and caffeine (especially coffee) is severely dehydrating for the body. For every cup of coffee you drink, your body loses approximately 3 cups of water. Drinking large amounts of caffeine and alcohol during the six day preparation will greatly minimize your results.

How Does the Liver/Gallbladder Flush Work?

Science behind a Liver/Gallbladder Flush.

You will be drinking lots of apple juice as it contains malic acid. Malic acid acts as a solvent to weaken adhesions and soften the gallstones in the bile ducts. Do not consume any fat and protein on the Flush day (Day 6). This will force the liver and gallbladder to retain a large volume of bile and build pressure within the bile ducts. The Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate), also taken on the Flush Day (Day 6) are used to relax the smooth muscle and dilate the bile ducts. The salts also relax the colon and promote the bowels to flush. Right before bed you will take an Olive Oil drink, referred to as the Flush drink. The pressure from the overflow of bile from not eating protein or fat will be so strong, that the sudden influx of olive oil will stimulate a rapid surge of bile through the biliary tract, and push gallstones, stagnant bile, and toxins from the liver and gallbladder out through the common bile duct. While you sleep, you will literally be removing years worth of accumulated toxins. The next day, the gallstones and bile sludge will painlessly through the small and large intestine for easy evacuation.

Daily Bowel Movements

It is essential to keep your bowels moving for the next 6 days. the “once-a-day” bowel movement is not enough to fully clear the bowels. Whatever you ate yesterday, should be evacuated today. It’s that simple. In order to maximize your results with the Liver/Gallbladder Flush you must empty your colon everyday. In addition, completely clearing your bowels everyday for the 6 day prep will actually strengthen liver, gallbladder, and kidney function, which in turn, helps the liver and gallbladder to expel more gallstones. Lastly, a clean colon before the Liver Flush helps to avoid or minimize any discomfort or nausea that may arise during the actual Liver Flush. It will prevent back-flushing of the oil mixture or waste products from the intestinal tract into the stomach. Here are the recommendations for clearing the bowels daily:

1.  Coffee Enema – Coffee enemas facilitate clearing stagnant bile from the bile ducts. They are also helpful for clearing the lower bowels, and can induce a large bowel movement. If you feel that the use of coffee enemas is sufficient enough to keep your bowels clear, then just stick with this strategy for Days 1-5 (Not Day 6. Coffee Enema instructions are available here).

If you feel you need additional colon cleansing you may find that the following recommendations will be helpful.

2.  Colon Cleansing Formula– If you have already experienced success with the Intestinal Cleanse, you may want to consider taking Cleanse Blend for Days 1-3. You may take up to 1 tbsp. of Cleanse Blend twice a day ½ hour before meals. Make sure to take plenty of water after the Cleanse Blend. Click here to order Cleanse Blend.

3.  Salt Flush – Salt Water Flush is an excellent option especially if you have a sluggish colon in the morning. Click here for instructions.

4.  Colon Hydrotherapy – Colonics are one of the most effective ways to fully clear the bowels. Within a short period of time, a colonic can remove a large amount of trapped waste that has been collecting for years. If it is possible, try to do one or a few during the preparation phase, especially on Day 4.  Go to: http://www.i-act.org/ or http://www.colonic.net/directory.asp for a referral list of US and International Colon Therapists. Or call us at Fitness Arts 847-397-3787.

Overview of the Prep Days and the Actual Flush Day

The Essential Liver/Gallbladder Flush consists of 3-6 days of preparation where you will be drinking Apple juice and selected herbs to prepare your liver, followed by 1 day of actual cleansing. The Flush starts on Day 6, when you will take the Flush drink right before bed, and then continues through to the next day, where you will be “flushing” the gallstones. Ideally Days 6-7 should be reserved for the weekend or a time when you will have no distractions. You will be instructed to follow up a few days later with additional colon cleansing to ensure thorough removal of gallstones.

To simplify the procedures, separate instructions will be provided for Days 1-5, Day 6 and Day 7.

The Liver/Gallbladder Flush Kit

Here the components of the Liver/Gallbladder Flush Kit:

Apple juice diluted with water – You will drink diluted Apple Juice as it contains malic acid every day during the 3-6 day prep.

• Apple Juice/Malic acid: Apple juice is commonly used in liver flush protocols because of its high malic acid content. It softens gallstones that are adhered to the bile ducts, making it easy for gallstones to exit the liver after the Flush drink. Drinking large amounts of Apple Juice due to the malic acid may cause a cleansing effect, so do not be alarmed if you experience a little diarrhea and/or bloating. It should subside within a day or two. Also, you can pair the apple juice with our Black Cherry Rejuvenate (now called Cherry Elixade). This black cherry concentrate helps nourish and boost kidney function- an added benefit for the Liver Flush. Instructions will be provided for how much to take everyday.
• Gallbladder Clear – Gallbladder Clear is a gentle formula that contains Gold Coin Grass, Butterbur Root and Gentian Root which help clear and decongest “stone sludge” from the liver, gallbladder and bile ducts. These herbs also help to clear sludge from the kidneys.
• Gallbladder ND – Gallbladder Nano-Detox contains nanized Gold Coin Grass which is helpful in softening gallstones and cleansing the bile ducts. It also supports healthy bile flow and promotes gallbladder function for optimal performance during the liver flush. This is still helpful for those without a gallbladder because the bile veins are attached to the common bile duct and the gallbladder meridian still remains.
• Coffee enemas – As mentioned in “Preparing for the Essential Liver/Gallbladder Flush,” coffee enemas are extremely effective at clearing stagnant bile from the liver and gallbladder, which in turn helps the malic acid to get in and soften the stones more effectively. Therefore, these enemas are an integral part of the preparation.
• Castor Oil Packs – Castor Packs are an effective tool for removing toxins and opening circulation to the lymphatic system. A castor pack will be used over the liver after taking the Flush Drink on Day 6, and used over the kidneys on Day 7. Although optional, castor packing the kidneys, abdomen and liver during Days 1-5 of the prep or after the Flush will help to promote lymphatic purification and strengthen the detox pathways in the body.
• Pink Salt with Lemon – Pink Salt taken with lemon and a little water will stimulate gentle purging of the gallbladder, and the gastrocolic reflex to induce a bowel movement. It also gently stimulates the adrenals.

Items you will need for Days 1-5

• Essential Liver/Gallbladder Flush Kit
• 5 lemons – one each for Days 1-5
• Glass mason jar with a lid
• Heating pad or a Hot Water Bottle if you decide to Castor Packs during Days 1-5
• Optional Items:

Gallbladder Complex – This formula is designed to keep the gallbladder dilated and bile flowing more efficiently. It may also be used on Days 1-5, but not on Day 6. (If you already have gallbladder issues, it is recommended to take this complex in between Liver Flushes.)

Liver Nano-Detox – This formula contains nanized turmeric, milk thistle and guggul for optimal liver support, detoxification and rejuvenation. (May be taken during Days 1-5, not Day 6, and after the Flush.)

Liver Complex – A synergistic blend of phytonutrients, including milk thistle, Pau D’Arco, and Turmeric for liver detoxification and support. (May be taken during Days 1-5, not Day 6, and after the Flush.)

Reishi – An excellent herb to advance phase I and phase II liver detoxification. It helps the liver to accelerate its clearance of chemical toxins, helps to produce bile and fatty acid synthesis more efficiently, and promotes faster detoxification. (Reishi can be taken any time before or after the Liver/Gallbladder Flush, including Day 6. This is the only other supplement recommended for Day 6.)

Limonene Complex – Studies show that the natural solvent property of limonene (whole orange peel concentrate) helps to effectively dissolve gallstones in people. The maximum total oral dose in these studies was approximately one fluid ounce delivered over several doses. This may be too much for individuals at first. Our recommendation is to take 1-3 drops in 4 oz of water after your main meals. Do this for Days 1-5, but not on Day 6.

Instructions for Days 1-5

1.  Lemon & Pink Salt – First thing in the morning drink a 3 oz. glass of room temperature, purified water with the juice of 1 lemon and ¼ teaspoon of Pink Salt. Drink a second glass of water within 10 minutes. It is important to do this before taking supplements and eating breakfast, because the 2nd glass of water hydrates you and clears internal toxins in the colon.

2.  Apple Juice– Mix 24 oz of apple juice and 3-5 tbsp. of Black Cherry Rejuvenate (Cherry Elixade) into 24 oz. purified water in a large mason jars or other container. Shake well and drink it throughout the day. Wait at least 1 hour after meals before drinking it, and try to finish before dinner.

3.  Gallbladder Clear –Take 5 capsules three times a day with meals. Your total daily amount to take is 15 capsules.

4.  Gallbladder Nano-Detox – Take 2 tsp. in 3 oz. of water 1-2 hours before bed. If you are over 200 lbs. take 3 tsp. in 3 oz. of water. Sip and swish slowly.

5.  Avoid taking medication – If at all possible avoid medication (consult your physician or healthcare provider) or other supplements that are not ABSOLUTELY necessary for this entire week. It is important not to give the liver any extra work that may interfere with its cleansing efforts. (The exception is the Kidney Cleanse, Intestinal Cleanse, or other Liver/Gallbladder nutrients already mentioned.)

6.  Coffee Enemas – Make sure you take at least 3 coffee enemas during Days 1-5 (you may take one every day if you like). The enemas will also help to empty the bowels, especially when taken after dinner.

7.  Clear your bowels daily – Another gentle reminder to do your best to empty your colon every day!  Do a Salt Flush, warm-water enema, or another coffee enema if you feel you have not completely evacuated your colon.

8.  Stay Hydrated! – Since you will be consuming more liquids than normal, it is easy to forget about drinking water. Make it a special point to get in at least 4 liters of water every day. (If you are active or exercise regularly, you will need to take in more.)

9.  Dietary Recommendations – For this entire week stick to a whole foods diet as much as possible. Strive to eliminate all animal protein, dairy, fried foods, and processed, sugary foods. It is best to keep your meals light and avoid overeating. Try to take your last meal before 7 p.m. Avoid alcohol and all recreational drugs.

10.  Castor Oil Packs (optional) – If time permits, it is recommended to use a castor pack for each main detox organ. You can pack the kidneys, abdomen (colon) and Liver on separate days.  A castor pack is required for the Liver on Day 6 after you take the Flush Drink.

Day 6 – The Flush Day

Items you’ll need for today are:

• Apple Juice (24 oz. to mix with water. About 2:1 or 3:1)
• Epsom Salts  – 5 tablespoons (Epsom salts can be found in drug stores and most health food stores)
• Premier Olive Oil – ½ cup (available at fitness arts)
• Gallbladder Clear – 15 capsules (available at fitness arts)
• 2 pint jars with lids or similar
• 2 Grapefruits – enough for ¾ cup or 6 oz. freshly squeezed juice. You may also use oranges and lemons if you cannot tolerate grapefruit.
• 1 lemon for Epsom salts drink
• 1 orange (optional)
• Castor Pack, heating pad or hot water bottle, plastic bag, old towel or sheet
• 2-3 quarts freshly juiced, organic apples (optional for those who choose to fast today)
• Betaine HCL (optional) – Excellent to take with the Flush Drink to avoid nausea.

Please check our website www.fitnessarts.org for more… or call us at 847-397-2787

The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a nonprofit research organization, has developed a list of the 12 conventionally farmed fruits and vegetables most laden with pesticides. Organic is well worth the price for these–APPLES, BELL PEPPERS, CARROTS, CELERY, CHERRIES, GRAPES, KALE, LETTUCE, NECTARINES, PEACHES, PEARS AND STRAWBERRIES.

If you do not buy a nonorganic food from this “dirty dozen,” wash it thoroughly before eating. Also discard the outermost leaves of leafy vegetables, such as lettuce, especially with nonorganic produce.

EWG has also determined which conventionally farmed foods usually are low in pesticide residue. To save money, you can skip organic versions of these–ASPARAGUS, AVOCADO, BROCCOLI, CABBAGE, EGGPLANT, KIWIFRUIT, MANGO, ONION, PAPAYA, PINEAPPLE, SWEET CORN, SWEET PEAS, SWEET POTATO, TOMATO AND WATERMELON.

HELPFUL: To print a wallet card of these lists, go to www.foodnews.org/wellguide.php. Or just remember this rule of thumb–if you eat the skin (like an apple), buy organi. If you peel the skin (like an onion), conventional is okay. Not all of EWG’s recommendations fit this guideline, but most do.

Happy informed shopping!

Your health determines how you view the future, how you handle the present and how you remember the past. Be kind and generous with yourself physically, spiritually, mentally,  and emotionally. Take deep breaths, laugh and smile a lot, eat healthy foods, love life…

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to let me know. If you would like to address issues more privately, you can email me at mias@fitnessarts.net

Visit our fitnessarts facebook to read the latest posts that you are not getting via email.

Daily To Do List:

Weekdays: Monday – Friday

1. Start by drinking a liter of water with ½ tsp of Pink Salt when you awake first thing in the morning.
2. Drink 4 liters of water daily. I prepare these the night before

▪     1^st liter of water is mixed with 1 tsp of Pink Salt and on my nightstand so I can have easy access upon arising.

▪     2^nd liter is mixed with 2 tsp of Max Stress B to take with me to work so I can drink it throughout the day.

▪     3^rd liter is mixed with ½ tsp of Pink Salt also to take with me to work so I can drink it throughout the day.

▪     4^th liter is typically just pure water that I drink once I get home after work.

3.   Dry skin brush for 5-10 minutes before you shower

4.   Get plenty of sleep (minimum of 5 continuous hours between 11 pm & 5 am)

5.   20-30 minutes of aerobic exercise. I try to get a brisk walk in the morning. If I didn’t walk in the morning, I walk when I get home from work. I have a pair of walking shoes in my car just in case. My attitude and stress levels dramatically lower when I walk before walking into my house.

6.   Breathe in some fresh air and take a few minutes to reflect on your day as well as your progress. Be proud of your accomplishments! Look forward to how great you will look and feel at the end of this detoxification process.

7. Chart your progress

• Weigh yourself upon rising and at bedtime.
• If you have HBP, take your BP daily around the same time.
• Duration of exercise.
• Sleep: you should be getting 5 hours of continuous sleep without interruption.
• First morning urine pH (optional).
• Diary of foods and drinks consumed each day. 

Weekend: Saturdays and Sundays

Weekends can become tricky because we can be tempted away from the discipline of a detoxification. Let your family and friends know what you are doing and how important it is to you. If possible, eat all your meals at home. Have a couple of “go to” snacks pre-packaged for easy access such as washed and cut veggies, raw nuts and dried fruit mixes, and fresh fruits. When you awake in the morning, take a few minutes to plan your day in your mind about how you want to feel, how you want to relate to your family and friends, already being grateful for the day ahead of you and smiling at yourself for the time and energy you are dedicating to becoming healthy and fit.

Saturday

1. Repeat steps 1-7 on the weekday list.
2. Make sure you have the necessary ingredients for the Sunday Mini Liver/Gallbladder Flush. The shopping list and instructions are available on our website. www.fitnessarts.org
3. Before going to bed, set out your ingredients (olive oil, tomato juice, blender, straw. Optional: garlic, tumeric, magnesium) and set the alarm clock.

Sunday  Mini Liver/Gallbladder Flush  and Coffee Enema day

1.  Repeat steps 1-7 on the weekday list.
2. Arise early enough to do the flush. I typically get up before 6 am, go to my kitchen and blend the ingredients in the blender I set out the night before and drink with a straw. Then I go back to bed and sleep for a few hours. It’s important to note that if you eat or become too active, you will feel nauseous and/or ill. Few people develop detox symptoms. Check our website at www.fitnessarts.org for more information.
3. Around mid-morning, do a coffee enema. Instructions are on our website.
4. Take it easy today. Stay close to home as you may need to use the toilet.

A sample of today’s of meals:

Breakfast – meal replacement shake-mix in a small blender
 1/4 cup of nutrition powder (available from Fitness Arts)
 1tsp EFA Oil (available from Fitness Arts)
 1 tsp Flax Oil (available from Fitness Arts)
 3 drops D3 (available from Fitness Arts)
 1 TBS Aloe Arboressence or Raw Honey (available from Fitness Arts)
 1 cup almond milk or coconut water
 1/2 banana or ½ cup of berries
 Ice cubes

Lunch – green salad with avocado, grated raw/aged cheddar, vinaigrette

Snack (mid-afternoon) – meal replacement shake or fresh fruit or veggies

Dinner –

Week One: 2-3 cups of veggies-raw or steamed
 Week Two: add ½ cup of Buckwheat, Quinoa, or Brown Rice

An hour or so after dinner:

Herbal tea with a bit of raw honey to stave off sugar cravings

Remember:

1. Eating lightly is important for a strong detox. How lightly you eat depends on what sort of activities you need to do while you’re detoxing. If you’ll be doing a normal work and lifestyle schedule, you’ll want to eat more than if you are able to take it easier for a bit.
2. Many of the foods we eat these days are processed, and therefore are difficult for the body to break down for use.
3. They also often don’t contain adequate nutrition, which adds to the toxicity load when the body’s systems don’t have the building blocks and fuel they need to function optimally.
4. While doing a detox, it’s best to cut out all processed foods (anything in a bag, box or can is out), which means that simpler foods, prepared simply, become the basis of your diet.
5. The most important foods to avoid are sugar, flour products/baked goods, and anything processed/packaged (i.e. anything you don’t cook yourself – unless it’s a super high quality restaurant that you know has super clean food).
6. It is not recommended to eat any meat, poultry, and dairy.
7. If you can’t cut out caffeine, cut the amount down as much as possible, and quit soda altogether. If you drink coffee, switch to tea.

Foods to avoid while detoxing:

• Salt
• Alcohol
• Tea/Coffee
• Soft drinks
• Baked goods (anything with flour: cookies, cake, crackers, bread, etc.)
• Sugar (all sweets, i.e. HFCS, maltose, sucrose, fructose, maltodextrin, etc.)
• Artificial sweeteners
• Chocolate
• Chips (or any such snack food)
• Dairy: Milk, cream, processed cheeses, butter/margarine
• Meats
• Any foods made with processed/heated oils

If you would like a program designed specifically for you, please contact us at Fitness Arts by calling 847-397-2787, or emai