Healthy Living Podcast

The Importance of Hydration

How many adults do you know that get up in the morning and the first thing they have is a glass of orange juice and a cup of coffee, the traditional breakfast fluids? First thing in the morning, you’re thirsty and you’re trying to hydrate. But neither of these fluids will adequately hydrate your body.
Water alone will supply what the body needs. But did you know that water needs help to get into your cells?
There are 4 vital elements needed for life:
OXYGEN
WATER
SODIUM
POTASSIUM
Around the outside of every cell wall are sodium potassium pumps that maintain the balance of water in and out of the cell. This means that a no sodium diet is actually harmful to your body because it decreases hydration.
But what if you are retaining water? Won’t more water just make it worse? Listen to Barbara O’Neill describe how to fix it with more water.
So, we need to make sure we have the proper minerals in our diet, as well as sufficent amout of water daily.
Drink Plenty of Water
How much water should you drink a day? You probably know that it’s important to drink plenty of fluids when the temperatures soar outside. But staying hydrated is a daily necessity, no matter what the thermometer says. Unfortunately, many of us aren’t getting enough to drink, especially older adults.
It has been said that the we have become so used to being dehydrated in America that most of us mistake dehydration for hunger. This has contributed to our overweight population. this is one reason that almost every diet plan includes the instruction to drink a glass of water before every meal.
Water keeps every system in the body functioning properly. The Harvard Medical School Special Health Report 6-Week Plan for Health Eating notes that water has many important jobs, such as:
carrying nutrients and oxygen to your cells
flushing bacteria from your bladder
aiding digestion
preventing constipation
normalizing blood pressure
cushioning joints
protecting organs and tissues
regulating body temperature
maintaining electrolyte (sodium) balance.
Giving your body enough fluids to carry out those tasks means that you’re staying hydrated.
If you don’t drink enough water each day, you risk becoming dehydrated.
Signs of Dehydration
Have you heard the phrase “Drink right, pee white”? Well it’s true. Your urine can be an indicator if you’re dehydrated. If it’s colorless or light yellow, you’re well hydrated. If your urine is a dark yellow or amber color, you are probably dehydrated.
There are other signs that can signal you may be dehydrated. They include:
Little or no urine.
Urine that is darker than usual.
Dry mouth.
Sleepiness or fatigue.
Extreme thirst.
Headache.
Confusion.
Dizziness or lightheadedness.
No tears when crying.
How much water should I drink?
Doctors say that fluid intake varies by age, gender and from one person to another. But a good solid rule is drink 1/2 your body weight in ounces every day throughout the day. This is pure water, coffee, tea and other flavored liquids are not nearly as effective.
The first and most important rule is to maintain the body’s water balance throughout the day — it is important to drink water all day long, starting from immediately on waking up, and about 30 minutes before each meal rather than with the food. With the onset of summer heat, people are recommended to drink around one-and-a-half times the recommended minimum to compensate for liquid lost through perspiration, preferably cool plain water, rather than hot drinks.
If you are expecting to be out in the heat more than usual, think ahead and drink more water for 2-3 days prior to the outing. This will help your body adjust to the change easier.

Staying Flu Free

Flu season is hectic! Strep, flu and colds are rampant during the winter months, so how can you stay healthy? We have gathered several healing recipes using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen pantry.
Prevention and Immunity Building RecipesKeep your overall health nourished and strong against any illness with some of these home remedies.
Fruit BoostersFruit is an overlooked but powerful tool to boost your immune system and keep it strong all year long. If you seek ways to prevent colds, flu, or any other infections without medical supplements, you must include fruits in your daily meal plan.
Most fruits are low in fat, sodium, as well as calories, with none having cholesterol. Fruits are rich sources of many vital nutrients that are under-consumed, such as potassium, vitamin C, dietary fiber, and folate. Here we have listed a few fruits names, which will boost your immune system without any kind of side effects.
ElderberriesThe elderberry contains certain compounds and substances that might have a beneficial impact on health.
Here are some of the main reported health benefits of elderberries:
Elderberries have long been used as an ally against upper respiratory infections. They’ve been scientifically proven to be effective against at least 8 different influenza viruses! Which is pretty amazing.
There is some evidence to support the claim that elderberry can help treat colds and flu, though the available studies are small.
Elderberry fruit contains high levels of flavonoids, which means it might have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These help to protect healthy cells from harmful free radicals that play a role in skin problems.
Elderberries contain high levels of vitamin A. The ANA also say that elderberries may soothe the skin, help ease the appearance of age spots, and prevent or lessen wrinkles.
Oregano OilDiscover the Power of Oregano Oil, an ancient healer & modern-day miracle! Oregano oil has been used for centuries as a potent remedy for a wide range of health issues like :
Immune boostingFights respiratory infectionsSupports digestive healthToday, science has unlocked the secret behind its extraordinary benefits because it contains powerful compounds like carvacrol and thymol, These compounds give oregano oil it’s impressive antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, studies show that it’s even more effective than pharmaceutical alternatives!
Oregano oil is a true champion in the world of natural remedies.
DIY Oregano Oil
Dried organic oregano (about 24 oz)Organic extra virgin olive oil (750 ml)In a large mason jar, fill it halfway with dried organic oregano. Pour some EVOO inand stir in increments until jar is full. Allow the oregano to infuse into the oil for 2-3 weeks. Strain and store oil in a dark, cool place.
How to use it?
Use it topically for Nail Fungus, Athlete’s Foot,Insect Bites, WartsAdd a few drops to a diffuser for respiratory healthTake 3-4 drops of oregano oil up to 3 x dailyFor children, 1-2 drops up to 2 x daily (Be extra cautious with infants and toddlers)The best times to use oregano oil are when symptoms first appear or when you’re seeking preventative care during cold and flu season.
GingerFor centuries, people in various parts of the world have used ginger as a traditional herbal remedy for common health problems. According to research, preliminary studies indicate that it may have beneficial properties, but clinical trials are necessary to further investigate them.
It is worth noting that studies tend to use ginger extract rather than raw ginger or ginger juice. However, ginger juice likely offers benefits that are similar in type, if not in magnitude. These include:
Reducing inflammation: The anti-inflammatory effects may help relieve the pain of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the wearing away of joint cartilage due to aging, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the joints.
Relieving pain unrelated to arthritis: Ginger may help alleviate pain associated with the menstrual cycle and migraine headaches.
Improving gastrointestinal function: This includes enhancing digestion.Decreasing nausea and vomiting: Ginger may help prevent and reduce nausea and vomiting that comes with chemotherapy and pregnancy.
Improve blood sugar control: Ginger may lower blood sugar and improve factors related to the development of type 2 diabetes, such as insulin resistance.
Reducing the risk of other chronic diseases: This includes obesity-related factors that increase the likelihood of cardiovascular disease. It may also decrease risk factors of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that raise the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Lemon ginger shot
This recipe produces 2 servings.
Ingredients1-inch (in) piece of fresh ginger root1 lemona pinch of powdered or raw turmericInstructionsSlice off the lemon peel.Chop ginger, lemon, and raw turmeric into small pieces.Blitz in a blender or food processor.Divide into two shots and strain if desired.Drink immediately.
The combination of ginger & lemon is a potent fat-burning formula that may help you lose weight in all areas of your body. This is not only excellent for weight loss, but also for treating a variety of illnesses, including colds, flu, fatty liver, and high cholesterol.
Ginger decreases inflammation, stimulates digestion, and suppresses your appetite.
Lemons contain a high amount of vitamin C, soluble fiber, and plant compounds that give them a number of health benefits. Lemons may aid weight loss and reduce your risk of heart disease, anemia, kidney stones and digestive issues.
If you’re feeling ill …If you feel any symptoms of a cold or other illness coming on, there are powerful ingredients you can take to help your body fight them off.
Natural AntibioticThe natural antibiotic you asked for. If you’re looking for something natural to help get better quickly, try this natural antibiotic recipe. It’s anti-inflammatory, anti-ageing, anti-bacterial, and packed with anti-oxidants.
1/2 cup of pure honey1 tsp of ground turmeric1/2 tsp of ground ginger1 tsp of vanilla
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl. Take a teaspoon each day or even have it in your favourite herbal tea.
Stop a coldHave you ever tried this combo for colds?
It’s packed with immunity-boosting ingredients to help your body stay strong and healthy. You can stir it into plant milk, warm water or juice, or simply eat it right off the spoon.
This recipe is great for cold and flu season, or anytime you want to boost your immunity.
It contains antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties which help to treat digestive issues, arthritis and skin conditions.
Honey Turmeric Ginger Bomb
You can double the amounts in this recipe. Yields a 1/2 a cup
1/2 cup raw honey1-2 tbsp coconut oil2 tsp turmeric powder2 tsp cinnamon powder2 tsp ginger powder1/2 tsp black pepperMix all the ingredients together and stir well. Pour the mixture in a glass jar with a lid and store in room temperature. You can always cut down the portions of spices to 1 tsp if you find it too strong.
Enjoy 1 tsp a day and feel the power of this Honey Turmeric Ginger Bomb!
Mucus, Cold & CoughHere is a natural remedy for mucus, common cold, flu or covid symptoms. This juice combinations really packs a punch, filled with antioxidants, it helps to boost our immune system.
It includes pineapple, celery, ginger, turmeric and lime. All of which have anti inflammatory properties meaning they help to reduce inflammation within the body.
In this cold and flu season, and whatever else is lurking out there, remember that prevention is better than cure! This is a juice combination that can be consumed daily to help fortify your immune system
Pineapple Celery Juice
1/2 of entire pineapple8 stalks of celery10 pieces of turmeric2 hands of ginger2 key limesThis batch provides 3 8oz servings.
Onion Tea
Remove mucus and lose congestion using only 1 ingredient–Onion! Onion has natural antibiotic properties that help you heal lungs, colds, and flu that causes bronchitis. This acts as a natural cough syrup and decongestant.
Cut up 1 medium onion with skins. Place in asauce pan with 8 – 10 oz of water. Boil until water is ‘tea’ colored
Cinnamon Bark Tea
Steep 2 sticks of cinnamon bark in hot water for 5-10 min. Remove sticks and drink up. You can add a tsp of honey if you want a little sweetness.
Cinnamon Bark Tea has several health benefits. Like any tea, it warms the body, but it also decreases sweating, soothes sore throats, helps with digestion and relieves cold, flu and viral infections.
Relieve congestionAre you ready to breathe easy again? Try this steam recipe to open up your airways!
Steaming fragrant antiviral, antibacterial herbs , might be one of the greatest tricks to reduce symptoms of nasty cold, cough, flu and sinus congestion.The warm moist air, opens nasal passages and calms and relieves chest congestion. Studies have proven the effectiveness of this ancient practice and even shown that steam inhalations help reduce viral load.
Directions:
Heat water in a pot until it just begins to boil.Take the water off the heat.Add 2 handfuls of antimicrobial herbs like Holy Basil, Rosemary, Thyme, Mint leaves, Eucalyptus, Cinnamon, Clove , Fresh turmeric, 2 drops oregano oil optional . Cover with lid and let steep 5 minutes.Keeping your eyes closed and maintaining a safe distance from the bowl, create a tent with a kitchen towel over your head.Inhale slowly and deeply through your nose and mouth for at least two to five minutes.Note: careful not to burn yourself and let cool longer if it feels too hot. Avoid with children under 12.
You can do this 2 -3 times a day. Always ask your doctor to be sure.
Reduce a FeverDid you know that raisins can fight infections and reduce fever in children?!? It’s that simple! 😋
Raisins are known to have powerful anti-bacterial properties for fighting infection and reducing fevers in children! 👍They are also high in fiber, which is great for digestion.
Raisins can be added to any meal or snack and are a great way to add sweetness without adding extra sugars.
Step-by-Step :
Soak less than 1 oz of raisins for an hourMush them in a pastegive to your child when they are feverishFocus on feetAccording to Chinese reflexology—an ancient form of complementary medicine—the feet are covered in “access points” that connect to all other areas of your body, via your qi, or life force energy. Basically, treat the feet to treat the whole body.
If you have a cold or flu, there is a trick that you could try to reduce the cold. This is done by placing a thin potato or onion slice underneath your foot and covering them with socks.
Leave the socks on overnight as you sleep. In the morning, you’ll wake up feeling better.
How this works?The nerves in the feet have been a focal point of Eastern medicine for thousands of years and are thought to act as access points to the internal organs.
Western medicine and science have shown that sulphuric compounds in potatoes and onions have the ability to kill bacteria and viruses—but only when ingested, and in very limited studies. When it comes down to it, there’s no solid scientific evidence that food on your feet can cure a cold. Then again, there’s also no evidence that they don’t, either.
Foods that can make your cold and flu symptoms worse
At the first signs of cold and flu, we all reach for hot tea to which we add lemon, squeeze oranges, add hot soup… But did you know that sometimes foods that are considered healthy can actually harm you when you are sick?
Of course, this does not mean that this food is not healthy, and it is important to note that every body reacts differently to food, so if something from the following list does not have a bad effect on you, then ignore it.
When you have the flu, fever or cold, there is a possibility that your symptoms will be delayed by the following foods:
SpinachIt is believed that spinach can stimulate inflammatory processes and worsen the feeling of fatigue, which accompanies the symptoms of flu and colds.
NutsAlthough they contain many nutrients that help against infections, still refrain from snacking on walnuts in the initial stage of the disease, especially if it is a fever or a stomach virus. They are rich in fats that the body burns slowly and for a long time, so it robs you of the energy you need to fight the disease.
BroccoliVitamins such as A and C that it contains are very useful for immunity, but in order not to irritate the body further and to leave room for it to successfully fight infections and inflammations, consume foods that contain less fiber and are easier to digest, unlike from the broccoli.

Recognizing Vaccine Injury

Many still believe that vaccine injuries are rare and only happen to others, but have you seen these stories?The life of Melody Rain Palombi-Malmgren, a vibrant 15-month-old girl, abruptly ended following routine vaccinations. Her mother – devastated – links the tragedy to the vaccines. Here’s what unfolded:Melody was administered three vaccines: varicella, DTaP, and Hib.She had a history of severe reactions to previous vaccinations.Hospital records revealed that Melody suffered liver and kidney failure, along with cardiac arrest, leading to her untimely death.Pilots Warns of Airline Industry Disaster Due to COVID-19 VaccinesCaptain Shane Murdock, a pilot for more than 40 years, has found official data that back up his claim of impending global catastrophe:There was a 272% rise in mayday calls in 2022, with a 386% surge in early 2023.There was also an unprecedented 126% increase in flight restrictions due to medical limitations.

Flouride Falsehoods

Flouride has been added to public drinking water since 1945 in an “attempt to decrease tooth decay”. But does it really help our dental health?Fluoride’s Effects on the Formation of Teeth and BonesExcessive systemic exposure to fluorides can lead to disturbances of bone homeostasis (skeletal fluorosis) and enamel development (dental/enamel fluorosis). The severity of dental fluorosis is also dependent upon fluoride dose and the timing and duration of fluoride exposure. Fluoride’s actions on bone cells predominate as anabolic effects both in vitro and in vivo. More recently, fluoride has been shown to induce osteoclastogenesis in mice.Osteoclastogenesis is defined as the development of osteoclasts, bone cells that breaks down bone tissue.So if flouride isn’t helpful in preventing cavities, and actually causes enamel damage, then why have they been touting it as a healthy thing? Here is a little background into the where the flouride in our water comes from.Toxicity of fluoride: critical evaluation of evidence for human developmental neurotoxicity in epidemiological studies (May 8, 2020)Epidemiological studies have suggested that fluoride is a human developmental neurotoxicant that reduces measures of intelligence in children, placing it into the same category as toxic metals (lead, methylmercury, arsenic) and polychlorinated biphenyls. If true, this assessment would be highly relevant considering the widespread fluoridation of drinking water and the worldwide use of fluoride in oral hygiene products such as toothpaste. The Use of the Neurotoxin Fluoride for Influencing Brain FunctionOnly 2% of Europe fluoridates water. Fluoride is banned in China, where studies on large populations showed an I.Q. decrease. Parts of Canada have also banned it, as well as Japan and Israel. The world’s oldest and most prestigious medical journal, The Lancet, classified fluoride as a neurotoxin and placed it in the same dangerous category as arsenic, lead and mercury.Results continually showed that higher prenatal fluoride exposure was linked to lower scores on tests of cognitive function in children at age 4 and then again between ages 6 and 12.Fluoride can accumulate and calcify on the pineal gland, blocking its effectiveness, and these deposits can get worse as we age. A blocked pineal gland could lead to things like trouble sleeping or weight gain. One study even suggests toxic calcification could lead to early onset of puberty in girls.Yet another study links water fluoridation to higher ADHD rates.In a governmental report from May 2022 states “The consistency of the data supports an inverse association between flouride association and IQ”. That means that as flouride exposure increases, IQ decreases in the developing brain. Flouride causes neurological damage, thus the name Smartwater.Stop drinking WATER with FlourideRecommend: Smart Water: yeah 3$ a bottle but can you put a price on living longer then the next guy. pic.twitter.com/L4fJLEdleD— Chad (@_Chad_Ellinger_) November 3, 2023

Becoming Barbie and Ken

Welcome to Healthy Living with Andi and Brian Hale!On this episode of Healthy Living, we explore both accidental and intentional use of microplastics in our diet.No, I’m not talking about perfectionism, I’m referring to their genetic makeup, their DNA so to speak. Ken and Barbie are made primarily of plastic and it is becoming clear that we are also being riddled with this same foreign substance.Microplastics refer to plastic debris that is less than five millimeters, or about the size of a sesame seed. Most microplastics are sorted into two categories based on how they form: primary microplastics and secondary microplastics.Watch Live Friday Nights on Rumble 9-11 pm cstwww.diggingdeepertv.com

The Benefits of Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that occurs naturally in your body. Many people think that cholesterol is harmful, but the truth is that it’s essential for your body to function. Cholesterol contributes to the membrane structure of every cell in your body.

The Benefits of Fasting

There is an overwhelming set of reaons why FASTING is GOOD for the body. Discover them here!

Refined, Bleached, Deodorized

Is Vegetable Oil good or bad? Let's dig in...The consumption of vegetable oils increased drastically in the last century.While some vegetable oils have been linked to health benefits, there are concerns about the excessive intake of omega-6.It’s important to note that not all plant oils are bad for your health. For example, avocado oil and olive oil are both excellent choices. Both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids, meaning that you need some of them in your diet because your body can’t produce them.Some vegetable oils are high in omega-6 fatty acids. Scientists have hypothesized that eating too much omega-6 can lead to increased inflammation in the body and potentially contribute to disease.The top four vegetable oils consumed in the United States are soybean, canola, palm, and corn oil.These are referred to as refined, bleached, deodorized oils – or RBD for short – because this describes the process by which they are manufactured.Most canola is chemically extracted using a solvent called hexane, and heat is often applied which can affect the stability of the oil’s molecules, turn it rancid, destroy the omega-3s in it, and can even create trans fats.Consumption of industrially produced trans-fatty acids (TFAs) is a well-established health risk factor that correlates with the increased risk of developing all sorts of chronic diseases, including heart disease, obesity, cancer, and diabetes.One of the most suprising facts I found was what happens during commercial deep-fat frying operations with canola oil. Canola oil used to fry French fries for seven hours per day for seven days at 185°C (365°F) resulted in increasing the total trans-fatty acid content of the oil from 2.4% to 3.3% by weight of total fat.

Managing Depression

Managing Depression featuring Pastor Bob McCartney and Tom MacDonaldBy Brian HaleOctober is Depression Education and Awareness MonthDepression is much like the words’ mental health or suicide; it carries a stigma that sometimes gets in the way of a person getting help. The good news is that stigma is fading with increased awareness about mental health and further understanding depression.In fact, depression actually comes in several forms. You should never be embarrassed or down on yourself if you are feeling this way.I think most of us, maybe all of us, have been afflicted with situational depression at one point in our life.And that, my friend, I believe, is the really good news! Situational means temporary, and temporary means this too shall pass.Pastor Bob McCartney from First Baptist Church Wichita Falls did an excellent job on Sunday explaining the differences, and offered some solutions.If anyone is interested, we have a special tab above for Sermon Series. For now, here’s the clip we are referencing.You noticed that one of the solutions was to surround yourself with others. Never attempt to do it alone. Here’s a friend of ours with a spoken word about this topic, and then we’ll hear some music from him as well. Here’s Tom MacDonald.With mental health, there can be many highs and lows. And sometimes you just have to put on paper or into music. Just what you’re feeling, at least that’s what Tom does.Here’s a powerful statement about those thoughts that go through your head when you’re in recovery, but still having doubts.But Tom is a fighter who has now helped hundreds of others with the struggles of depression.If you are struggling with depression in any form please seek out a friend or someone you trust.The national suicide hotline is 988.You are not alone. We will be praying for you.

Glucose Overload