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Success is Two Steps Forward, One step Back

How failure can equal your success.

A favorite presupposition of mine helps me cope with life and thrive in all respects.

It assumes that, “There is no failure, only feedback.”

Whether this is a true statement or not doesn’t really matter. The important aspect is that you gain valuable insight from every situation, even if it doesn’t seem to go in your favor.

In other words, you grow stronger at every corner because your thoughts become your best ally instead of your worst enemy.

Taking two steps forward and one step back is a means of sustainable progress.

Sustainable progress.

You continually move forward. You recognize that there will be drawbacks, and there will be barriers.

Taking one step back allows to you recognize that which you might not have seen before.

My favorite exercise could seriously injure me.

I want strength, I crave it.

My name translates to “man, warrior, strong.” Is this my destiny?

Okay, I’ll stop BS’ing. But the reality is that my passion is of movement. Being able to physically exert a force beyond what I previously thought possible.

I can’t always save face, I can’t always succeed in the ways I want.

But I know that each step back is an experience that can take me forward.

Forward…to a reality of everlasting growth and success.

At least, that is the goal.

And this is the progress.

Don’t beat yourself up when you eat too much junk. Understand the take home message, listen to your body, and move forward.

Power of the Mind
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How do Digestive Enzymes promote Health and Fitness?

Enzymes equal life.

These are the workers of the living world. They make movement, growth, thought, emotion, healing, disease, virus, life, sex, and everything else possible.

Lock and key theory of enzymes. Each enzyme can do this at a spectacular rate. For some, millions of times per hour!

Enzymes are workers, acting constantly as catalysts throughout the entire body. Enzymes cause important events to happen — each individual enzyme induces thousands of reactions per hour.

Pause for a second and flex your forearm.

Enzymes made that possible.

How fast he strokes, his enzymes work even faster.

As you can imagine, the quantity and quality of enzymes in your body is directly related to your current state of health and vitality.

Zero enzymes = death.

Supplemental enzymes Save You Energy.

The digestive process uses LOTS of energy so that you can have that energy.

It’s like the Greenpeace canvassers who go door to door asking you for money. Most of the money they raise goes towards their paycheck. Same thing in the body — most of the energy from food goes towards powering the digestive system.

"Hi, will you donate money so I can keep asking people to donate money, a small portion helps whales."

When you use supplemental enzymes, it therefore saves your body a significant amount of energy so that your body can focus on promoting vitality instead of living in a weakened state.

Basically, supplemental enzymes are FREE workers.

Overly Cooked and Processed food creates Disease in America

Processed foods are dangerous.

Future of America: This is why Junk-Food companies invest millions $ into insurance and "health-care" companies.

For example, Soda is highly processed, full of high fructose corn syrup, and completely lacking in enzymes. You feel a burst of energy from the carbohydrates that that your body is able to extract from the Soda, until 20 minutes later you feel down again.

Why?

One reason is because after 20 minutes, the undigested soda has gone through the digestive system too fast and inefficiently to even be utilized.

Why does my stomach bulge after eating this?

Undigested food becomes toxic to the body in multiple ways ways.

  • First, it can feed the harmful bacteria and yeast in your intestines which can create dysbiosis in the gut (unbalanced microbial environment), which is a huge cause of disease and yeast infections.
  • Second, undigested food in the bloodstream induces an immune response by your body. This takes more energy and resources that are not being spent on giving you vitality.
  • Since the energy cannot be readily used by the body, it is converted into triglycerides that flow freely in the bloodstream.
  • Excess triglycerides (fats) will clog veins and arteries, causing circulatory issues and even worse: cardiovascular disease!

Moreover, since processed food contains no actual enzymes, it requires your body to produce significant enzymes from its limited enzyme capacity. The more enzymes you use now, the less you have later. The less enzymes you have later, the quicker you age, and the more susceptible to pain, disease, inflammation, autoimmune disorders, and so much more…

Eat only Raw Foods…in an ideal world.

Apples, oranges, broccoli, and all other fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, and plants contain active enzymes. These enzymes aid in assimilation of the nutrients available.

If you had the time, energy, and ability to prepare raw foods like this...I might just marry you.

But Heat KILLS enzymes. Cooking at or above just 118 degrees Fahrenheit will deactivate and destroy the enzymes. You therefore lose nutrients and enzyme potential.

Cooked food often sucks more life from you than it actually gives you.

Raw foods save your body energy and promote HEALTH by…

  1. Providing you with enzymes to absorb nutrients
  2. Allow you to fully digest the food so that your body does not have to mount an immune response
  3. Beneficial phytochemicals from raw foods promote hormone balance, anti-cancer properties, and cellular rejuvenation.

But…eating raw foods 100% of the time is not realistic for most of us.

Supplemental Digestive Enzymes should be used with meals.

In order to fully assimilate nutrients and to promote vitality, Digestive Enzymes are one of the best supplements to make part of a healthy lifestyle.

Hire more workers, pay them nothing, and they'll still be happy to do their job!

Benefits of Digestive Enzyme supplements include:

  • Fully assimilate nutrients (for example: taking digestive enzymes with protein is proven to provide the body with significantly more life-building amino acids)
  • Reduce/Elimate…gas, bloating, acid reflux.
  • Support immune system by fully digesting food and not allowing rotten foot particles into bloodstream.
  • Ease the load on your natural enzyme storage.
  • Weight Management
  • Feeling good after meals.

Simply put, using digestive enzymes has been shown to improve quality of life in many different ways.

If you want to lose weight now, but your digestive system is broken, then you need extra help. People who are bloated do not lose fat. In fact, people who are bloated just feel bad about everything. Thats because the most essential process in the body (digestion) is not functioning properly.

Proper digestion is important for you AND your friends.

Gas is bad, if you release stinky bombs, you need digestive enzymes with those meals. Stink bombs mean you literally have rotten, toxic food in your system and your body hates you for it. (Your friends hate you for the stink bombs too).

One capsule with meals is all it takes.

Choose a quality brand, and take the enzyme with meals.

You will feel the difference. You will know the difference. You will LOVE the difference.

The best (and most expensive) digestive enzyme. If you are relatively healthy, you might not need such a powerful product.

Digestive enzymes can help you gain lean muscle, boost the immune system, and most of all IMPROVE Quality of Life.

Thats what I’m talkin’ about, baby!

Eat well.

And…my friends,

Live well.

Nutrition, Immunity, and Digestion
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A healthy summer WITHOUT sunscreen?

The experts say sunscreen is a necessity for healthy summer.

I am not a skin expert.

But I sure do enjoy 5 feet 6 inches of healthy skin, so whats up?

Burn is bad, but Vitamin D is good.

Here’s the deal: Sunscreens containing Zinc Oxide block the UV radiation required for your skin to synthesize Vitamin D.

So if you lather your skin with sunscreen, you lose out on this essential sunshine vitamin.

Why you Need Vitamin D:

  • Immune system
  • Healthy hormones
  • Absorption and uptake of calcium (bone density)
  • Strength, coordination, balance
  • Blood sugar control

Since Vitamin D is so important, it’s a GREAT idea to take off your clothes and get some sun exposure this summer.

Keep in mind that BURNED SKIN is dangerous, so you definitely want to avoid a sunburn.

Sun protection through natural health

There are two ways to protect your skin without using chemicals.

  1. Natural, herbal, and plant based lotions which heal the skin
  2. Food and nutrition that provide your body with natural SPF protection and maintain cellular integrity.

Lets give some examples of each…

Natural Skin Lotions

1. Aloe Vera

Everything about Aloe Vera is soothing, even the name itself! Alooooe verraa…yea I am feeling zen now.

Aloe Vera contains bioactive compounds that are beneficial to humans. For example, when applied to the skin, wounds will heal faster. When ingested orally, the stomach lining is soothed and can reduce or eliminate heartburn completely. Anti-inflammation is key here.

Aloe Vera on the skin can reduce the damage from sun exposure. Use it, sooth it, love it.

2. Neem

One of my favorite trees in existence. In India, the Neem tree is sometimes referred to as the “Village Pharmacy” due to the wide range of HEALING benefits.

Neem is soothing, cooling, and astringent. It tightens skin and leaves it feeling fresh. Neem may or may not reduce the chance of sunburn, but it will protect the skin from damage.

Another benefit of Neem is its natural bug-away abilities. The bioactive compounds in Neem are proven to disrupt activity of over 100 insects and bugs. In fact, Neem kills some bugs, destroys the ability of other bugs to feed, and it prevents the ability of other bugs to reproduce (by screwing up the insects hormonal system).

Neem has helped people avoid chemical skin therapy for parasites by soothing the skin and preventing ecto-parasites from reproducing. Think of some parasites on humans…body lice, head lice, pubic lice, and scabies. Use Neem lotion for a week and the problem is solved. No chemicals, and no damage whatsoever to your own skin.

Skin care AND mosquito repellent. After your day in the summer sun, you use Neem lotion to soothe and heal your skin. And a nice side effect is that once the mosquitoes come out, you will maintain protection from potential disease carrying bites thanks to the amazing natural powers of NEEM!

Nutrition and Food for natural SPF sun protection

1. Tomatoes

Fresh and delicious

Tomatoes contain high levels of Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that protects skin and internal organs.

How much: One serving of salsa, V8, tomato paste, or spaghetti sauce.

2. Brazil Nuts

Harvested solely in the Amazon

Brazil Nuts are the highest natural source of the trace element Selenium. Our bodies require selenium to create selenoproteins, which have at least 30 different functions in the human body relating to cell function and immune system. An extremely important function of selenium is its role in one of our bodies most important antioxidant called Glutathione. Moreover, selenium also rejuvenates Vitamin E and Vitamin C stores, and these vitamins are well established for immune function to protect skin and everything else.

Thanks to all of the contributions of Selenium, research has established selenium as an ANTI-CANCER nutrient — especially prostate cancer.

Because soil in the Pacific Northwest is largely void of Selenium, many of us may not be at optimal levels. Fortunately, Brazil nuts are SO high in selenium, that you only need to eat one Brazil nut per day for optimal selenium and glutathione activity.

3. Carrots

Don't let the carrot benefits go straight to your head

Whats up doc? Carrots contain high levels of Beta-Carotene, which is beneficial for two reasons. First, Beta-Carotene alone is a fantastic antioxidant that protects cells from damage. Moreover, Beta-Carotene can be converted into Vitamin A by the body, for even more immune system benefits.

Go to the juice bar and get some fresh carrot juice. I will even join you for stimulating conversation about health and vitality!

4. Beets

Beets are therapeutic

They are purple and love to stain your kitchen counter. However, the purple pigment is responsible for some of the most powerful detoxification known to man. The beet is purple because of Betacyanin, which may or may not make you pee red. Either way, beet juice has been known to literally shrink and eliminate tumors.

If you want to avoid skin cancer, add a beet to your carrot juice.

5. Omega-3 enriched Eggs

Healthy Eggs from Healthy Hens!

I love eggs. I love eggs so much that I eat eggs raw in front of my co-workers.

Whole Eggs (including the yolk) contain so many vital nutrients that they should be a part of nearly any healthy diet. Aside from the complete bio-available protein content, eggs also contain B-family vitamins such as Choline, which (along with Folic Acid) helps to normalize brain function. Moreover, choline is a vital component of cell membranes and you definitely need healthy cells if you want to keep your skin safe.

6. Salmon

Dinner for healthy skin AND heart.

Similar to eggs, salmon is an amazing source of essential amino acids, but it is an even greater source of Omega-3 essential fatty acids. Salmon contains Omega-3s in higher forms than plant-based foods. The Omega-3’s in Salmon are EPA and DHA, which have a multitude of functions in the body, but also contribute to healthy moisturized, and tight skin.

7. Broccoli

"Broccoli drink KO'ed my cancer!"

Eat your broccoli, André says. Broccoli is green, therefore it contains Chlorophyll, another detoxifying compound (why do you think Iron Man drinks chlorophyll?) There are lots of beneficial elements in broccoli, but there are two that I will touch on here.

First, broccoli (and other cruciferous vegetables) contain Diindolylmethane (DIM), which is a beneficial plant indole. Basically, DIM promotes healthy estrogen metabolism by converting estrogen in the body into non-toxic forms. I’m sure all breast cancer survivors are familiar with the importance of healthy estrogen metabolism, but let me reinforce how important this is for EVERYONE, not just women. Estrogen can be dangerous — but broccoli makes estrogen safe.

Second, broccoli (and again…other cruciferous vegetables) contain the precurser to Indole-3-Carbinol, which has proven anti-cancer effects on the immune system.

For maximum benefits, consume both raw and cooked broccoli every week.

Why? Because temperatures above 114 degrees inactivate the enzyme that converts broccoli into Indole-3-Carbinol and therefore you lose some of the anti-cancer benefits completely.

8. Kimchi

I'll admit, I DO talk to the Korean girls when I shop at the Asian market. Then I go purchase my Kimchi.

Kimchi prevents colon cancer. There, I said it.

By providing your body with beneficial lactic acid bacteria, Kimchi cleanses the colon and kills bad bacteria. Moreover, Kimchi is attributed to the radiance of Korean skin through other nutrients like Vitamin C, garlic, red pepper, and a healthy digestive system.

9. Pumpkin Seeds

Expensive? Check. Powerful flavor? Check. Makes you horny? Thats for another blog post...

I think an essential part of a fun summer is having a healthy reproductive system. Pumpkin Seeds contain good levels of the essential mineral Zinc, which plays a vital role in both human sexual organs, but also the entire immune system. Zinc is required in over 100 enzyme functions and will protect your body for years to come (hehehe…)

Give your body the nutrients it needs, and cancer doesn’t have a CHANCE.

If your body has optimal nutrients, cancer won’t take over. It won’t take over on your skin, in your brain, or on your boobs.

Do you really need sunscreen?

Look, if I’m going to be out in the sun for 3 hours straight, then yes I’m going to use it. But when I take my 45 minute shirtless jog around the neighborhood, you better bet I’ll be soaking up the Vitamin D.

You should always strive for a balanced and complete diet. Our bodies are only as strong as the nutrients we provide it.

Now go forth and DOMINATE the summer-time fun.

Lets have some juicy watermelon and just chill by the lake.

May the healthy skin be with you!

Nutrition, Immunity, and Digestion
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Why is Losing Weight BAD for your Health?

Most would agree: excess fat is not healthy.

But, would you believe that losing weight could potentially be bad for your health too?

Believe it.

Why?

The body fat stores on your thighs, abdominals, and glutes contain more than just energy reserves.

So what IS body fat and why is it dangerous?

We can all agree on this: body-fat is extra storage.

This storage has been responsible for the continuation of our species. Through war and famine, body-fat’s dense per/gram source of energy has kept our ancestors alive.

But the average American is not in war or in famine.

How Body-fat is Toxic

Pause and consider the cycle of obesity.

  1. Sweet, processed foods are cheap, convenient, and easy sources of calories.
  2. A snickers bar is easier to consume than raw broccoli.
  3. Young boy discovers snickers
  4. Then he rediscovers snickers everyday thereafter.
  5. Since candy and sweets are high-sugar and lacking nutrients, his genes are expressed poorly.
  6. The cells in his body are inefficient and unable to detoxify chemicals, pollution, and oxidation.
  7. Too many toxins in the system,
  8. Never enough nutrients for cellular protection.
  9. Body fat storage increases in order to push toxins away from lean mass.
  10. There are now lots of toxins stored up in his body-fat.

Understand that body-fat accumulation is due to nutrient deficiency. Excess body-fat is almost always caused by a lack of essential nutrients.

Since the body cannot run effectively on a bad diet, the stresses of the body are transfered into body-fat tissue to be dealt with later. Which means if that you want to actually burn fat, you need to consider the toxic effect of weight loss.

How to Lose Weight and NOT make your body worse:

For most of us, we need to focus less on calories and more on nutrients. Then, the pesky calories part takes care of itself.

In other words, Focus on Nutrients.

Since most people are deficient in multiple nutrients, here are some common solutions:

  • Aim for 30 grams of fiber per day, ultimate colon, digestive, and immune system booster.
  • 1-2 servings of red vegetables for Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant to ward off disease.
  • 1-2 servings of broccoli/kale/cauliflower, lightly steamed, for Indole-3-Carbinol the cancer-fighter. (Add points for the fiber content)
  • 1-2 servings of orange vegetables for Beta-Carotene, another powerful antioxidant that can also be converted into Vitamin A.
  • 2-4 eggs per day for high quality protein, high quality dietary fat, antioxidants like lutein, and the egg is also a great source of the B family vitamin known as Choline. We need choline for cell membrane integrity, also very important for Pregnant Women (alongside Folic Acid)
  • 1 serving of fish or wild meat. Aside from the high quality protein found in fish and game meat, there will also be high levels of Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids. This is a common nutrient most people lack, and because most people don’t get enough omega-3, cardiovascular death is rampant. Omega-3’s protect the body from inflammation, and since body fat is inflammatory, Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids promote healthy weight loss.
  • 1 serving of olive oil for antioxidants and heart-healthy monounsaturated fat. Have you noticed that olive oil is soothing on your skin? Just imagine how the cells inside your body benefit from olive oil.
  • 1 serving of onions for potent bioflavanoids that boost the immune system and regulate blood sugar levels.
  • 1 serving of Avocado for healthy unsaturated fats, dietary fiber, and cancer-fighting nutrients.
  • 1 serving of traditional Korean Kimchi for high levels of Vitamin C, Live Enzymes, and Beneficial Probiotic Bacteria. Moreover, Kimchi boosts the immune system with red pepper and garlic.
  • 2 servings of whole grains, brown rice, or pseudo-cereals like Quinoa. Great source of slow burning energy, fill you up-fiber, bulk of your diet, vitamins and minerals. Easy to mix with vegetables.

That may seem overwhelming, but my intention is to stimulate some creativity all around. I wouldn’t expect anyone to be able to eat all of this food starting tomorrow, but it is important to be aware of all the nutrients you could be lacking.

The more nutrient deficient you are, the more difficult it will be to get the body OR the health that you want.

Make losing-weight GOOD on you.

Healthy food can detoxify the fat and burn it into oblivion.

Imagine your fat melting off and revealing lean, toned muscle underneath.

It’s entirely possible.

Let your genes flourish and display positively. Seek nutrients first, and fat-loss will come.

Weightloss Now