Beyond the Bite

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Living With Chronic Lyme: A Daily Dose of Encouragement

DailyDoseEncouragement

No one can deny that living with a chronic illness is tough.  Even those who are healthy themselves, almost always experience the frustration, stress, and burden of having a loved one or friend that is in the middle of a health crisis.  At first, it is easy to give encouragement to those who are struggling, yet as the term “chronic” becomes applicable to a given sickness, we as humans tend to slowly become discouraged, discontent, and anxious to get on with life.  Therefore, I have decided to start a new series on Beyond the Bite that I am calling “A Daily Dose of Encouragement.”  These posts may not come every day, and some weeks I may even fail to post one all together.  However, the overall gist of these posts is to spread awareness, perspective, inspiration, and hope to those experiencing similar trials that I am with Chronic Lyme Disease.  Despite the fact that being sick is hard, tiring, frustrating, and overall a huge struggle, it is also undoubtedly the best time to grow, learn, and mature as an individual.  I pray that these posts will allow you to do just that.

 Hope – A word truly key to surviving in life.  Without it, getting through the twenty four hour time period termed as a “day”, can seem, and pretty much is, impossible.  However, what exactly we are hoping for, is what ultimately makes or breaks the end result.  When we hope for material, physical, or earthly things, we are almost always left hope-less.  Nothing ever turns out the way we had “hoped or dreamed,” making the act of optimistic thinking seemingly pointless.  If you are anything like me, you understand what is like to be hopeful, only to have things turn out the complete opposite of what was planned.  Whether in the form of treatment, or simply wishing to wake up without a given symptom, there have (and still are) dozens of times where my hopeful excitement leaves me broken, torn down, and crying out, wondering how I will ever have the strength to find that seemingly distant hope again. Yet because of God, who continually pours out His love, strength, mercy, and grace on me, I am able to get up and tackle a life deemed hopeless by the world’s standards.  Instead of trying to find a way out of the current situations myself, I must stop and remember to have faith.  Not faith in the limited abilities of man, but faith in God, who knows the future, unseen events of life, and has already ensured that they will work together for good. Regardless of if the relief comes here on earth, or in the form spending eternity with Him in heaven, every trial that I face is merely bringing me one step closer to having all tears, fears, and sufferings being wiped away for good.   However, this does not just apply to me, but all individuals who make the choice to trust in God. Therefore, when anyone, regardless of their seemingly helpless circumstance, puts life into this perspective, hope does not seem so impossible after all.

 

 

Psalm 31:24 “Be of good courage and He shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the Lord.” 

Paleo Autoimmune Protocol Pesto Sauce

Making pesto automatically takes me back to warm summer nights, where my entire family ate dinner sitting on the back patio.  It was during these months that my mother’s garden box flourished with fresh basil, leading her to always make homemade pesto, of which she stored in the freezer for later use in the winter.  During the summer, however, she always made tossed pesto and cherry tomato pasta salad.  This dish was (and still is) a family favorite, even for myself, as I simply love taking in the aroma of toasted pine nuts, fresh basil, garlic, and a hint of pecorino. 

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Because I cannot fully tolerate all of the ingredients my mother uses, I have set out to make a recipe that mimics her tasty version as closely as possible.  Therefore, as you can imagine, the last few years of my illness have been full with many different varieties, all of which experimented with a wide range of herbs, oils, and vegetables.  What I have concluded after all these years, is that pesto is not pesto without olive oil.  Though I have enjoyed sauces made from oils such as avocado,  nothing has yet to successfully replace the distinct flavor of olive oil that ultimately brings me back to my childhood.  That being said, today’s recipe is definitely, to this date, the closest pesto sauce that successfully reminds me the most of my mothers. With nutty undertones from the artichokes and garlic, a hint of citrus from the lemon, and earthy flavor from the fresh basil, this sauce is the perfect way to brighten up any winter dish.  Later on this week I will be posting the Autoimmune-Paleo meatloaf recipe that I served this sauce over.  In the meantime however, you can enjoy this sauce on anything you like, whether on a turkey lettuce wrap, over sliced cucumber, rubbed on a roasted chicken, or stirred into baked spaghetti squash.   


Homemade Pesto Sauce 
Print Recipe
Ingredients
  • 4 cups fresh basil 
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin, cold-pressed olive oil
  • 1/4 cup organic canned artichokes – drained
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice 
Process 
  • In a food processor, blend artichokes and basil until broken down.
  • Scrape down the sides and then add in sea salt and garlic powder, pulsing until combined. 
  • With the food processor running, pour in olive oil and lemon juice until fully emulsified. 
  • Scoop pesto into a mason jar and reserve for later use, or serve over over my Italian Meatloaf.  







 
2 Corinthians 4:17 “Our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”

Spreading the Primal Word: The First Ever Paleo Mayo

 

 

Is Mayo Healthy?

From a nutritional standpoint, yes, the concept of real mayonnaise is healthy.  Fat, eggs, vinegar, and sea salt, what could better? Despite all of the debate over whether fats are healthy for us, they ultimately are our bodies fuel down to the very cellular makeup.  Without fat, our bodies would not be able to survive, making the concept of a low-fat diet not only very detrimental to an individual, but also seemingly impossible to succeed in.  Why?  Because our bodies absolutely need, and thus crave, good ol’fat.  

 

A Modern Day Calamity 

 

The problem that has risen in the past few decades is the industrialization of our food.  Instead of fat coming from unprocessed, raw, whole sources, fat (especially in polyunsaturated varieties) is heavily treated, thus causing them to oxidize and become harmful to our bodies.  Just a few of these vegetable and seed derived fats include soybean, canola, corn, peanut, cotton, sunflower, safflower, and grapeseed seed oil.  To summarize my previous “Fat Phobia” series,  whether or not a fat is healthy ultimately comes down to its chemical makeup.  PUFAs (Polyunsaturated fatty acids) are fragile in nature, while the stability rises in monounsaturated varieties.  Saturated fats on the other hand, are completely stable, making them the best for high heat cooking.  However, preserving the makeup of these fats does not just apply to cooking, but also to how they are handled, processed, and put into what we call “mayonnaise.”  Because of the natural form of PUFAs, they should never be heated, yet this does not stop the food industry from using them, as they are undoubtedly the cheapest oils to use.  Therefore, whether or not mayonnaise is healthy, is truly an inapplicable question due to fact that it is commonly (if not always) made from oxidized, damaged, and thus dangerous oil.  It does not matter where you buy it, whether at Kroger or Whole Foods, if you flip over a bottle of “organic, “real,” “all natural,” and (or) “non-GMO” mayo, the ingredients are anything but beneficial to the body.  The term “organic” may be important in some aspects of eating, but it certainly does not change the fragile structure of vegetable and seed oils. Now, is eating a few tablespoons of deranged oil in your weekly tuna salad going to kill you? Not exactly.  However, large quantities of these oils, as is the case for the SAD (Standard American Diet), are certainly harmful to the body, and have been proven in various scientific studies, as well trips to the mall’s food court.  Because of this, many Primal/Paleo enthusiasts struggle with taking mayonnaise out of their diet.  It shouldn’t be deemed “unhealthy,” as the primary ingredients are certainly foods are ancestors have been eating for hundreds of years.  That being said, the quest for a Paleo-aligned mayo seems to always end in failure, typically leading people to simply ignore the fact that all mayo is made with oxidized oils, give it up all together, or try and make their own at home.  However, the last two options are anything but easy, especially in today’s fast paced world.  

 
 
 
 
A Primal Solution 
 
Because of the hassle and frustration that surrounds mayonnaise, the folks from the Primal Blueprint have set out on a “quest for healthy Primal mayonnaise.”  Am I excited? Beyond!  Even though I cannot tolerate eggs at this point in my illness, they are certainly foods I will be re-introducing later down the road.  Therefore, with a love for slathering mayonnaise on everything (a trait passed on from my mother), I am sure Mark Sisson’s mayo will definitely be in my future.  Of course, even if I am not eating eggs when it is released, I cannot wait to get my hands on a bottle of this Primal mayonnaise to share with my family!  So, what makes their version so much better than the leading supermarket brand? First, it is made with avocado oil, a monounsaturated fat that is more stable in nature, and thus less prone to damage while being produced.  This oil is also chock full of health benefits, including reduction of overall inflammation in the body, coronary heart disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, as well as liver protection, boosted absorption of nutrients, and other healthy effects that vegetable and seed oils lack completely.  Without getting into specifics, Mark’s Primal mayo is something you can feel GOOD about eating and can unashamedly mix into your tuna salad or slather over a juicy burger.  Despite the oil not being certified organic, there is no pesticide residue or other harmful toxins present in the product.  This is just one reason why it is important to realize that eating “organic” is not the end-all be-all, and should be investigated and questioned just as much as any other label.  All in all, this makes the mayonnaise rather cheap, unlike the hefty price tag that it would have if it were “certified organic,” despite the fact that there is no difference between the two.  Of course, I feel like a tease writing this post before the mayonnaise is launched.  However, I really just wanted to spread the word that there is hope, as well as the fact that a Paleo compliant, healthy, delicious, AND affordable mayonnaise IS COMING!  For now, you can enter the Mark’s Daily Apple giveaway, to win a jar of this avocado-based mayonnaise.  To learn more about fat, see my previous “Fat Phobia” series, as well as the “Definitive Guide to Fats” on Mark’s Daily Apple. 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Romans 12:2 “Do not conform any longer to the patters of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.  Then you will be bale to test and approve what God’s will is – His good, pleasing, and perfect will.” 

Homemade Paleo White Chocolate (AIP Friendly)

 I am sure there are many others out there with similar effects from leaky gut, that can attest to how eating becomes more of a chore than an enjoyable act of pleasure.  You are in pain before and after you sit down to eat, only to walk away from the table more exhausted from the food than energized.  It doesn’t matter how healing, nutrient dense, or friendly to one’s illness that a food is, the body simply does not like it, and typically reacts pretty bad.  However, not eating is something no one will succeed in, which is why ignoring the effects, and simply plugging away at it to the best of one’s ability, is all that can really be done.  I believe that it is also important to keep the big picture in mind, as it helps one imagine a healthy life that is beyond the current health situation.  Ultimately, this makes all the tiresome, frustrating, and painful efforts in nourishing one’s sick body, all the more worth it.  

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As previously discussed, I follow a ketogenic diet as part of my current IV and oral protocol for the effects of Chronic Lyme Disease, known as the “PK Protocol.”  I also have been following an autoimmune-approach for many years now, and while I have had to re-introduce some foods due to the PK Protocol, the majority of AIP “rules” are still in effect on a daily basis.  However, because the differing combinations of eating that I must follow (Ketogenic, Autoimmune Paleo, Low-FODMAP), getting the amount of extra fat in my diet (a key to eating Ketogenic), can mistakenly be pushed to the way side.  Eating is not comfortable for me, nor has it been for many years, causing the act of “snacking,” to be something I must push myself to do.   Yet it is not to say that I do not eat enough, as I never skip meals and am always looking for ways to get extra calories in.  Sometimes that even means adding a few tablespoons of extra oil to my green juice, or in context to today’s post, these white chocolate “fat bombs.”  If you are like me and cannot eat any type of sugar, substituting the maple syrup for a sugar replacement (such as stevia), works perfect.  Because cocoa butter is solid at room temperature, there are many ways that you can store the white chocolate.  As you might have noticed, I made mine into the shape of mini gingerbread men, of which I found very suitable since it was the week of Christmas.  However, you can just as easily use a parchment lined loaf pan as a mold, cutting the chocolate into squares once set, or a lined mini cupcake tin for pre-made individual servings.  If you wish to purchase the cute mold that I used, you can do so here.  Ultimately, these ginger “boys” were a great way for me to get more calories into my week, without feeling like I had to miserably stuff my face, yet they are just as tasty for those simply looking for a quick, satiating snack as well.  If you want to make this recipe completely Autoimmune-Paleo friendly, simply follow the recipe notes below for another version of “fat bombs” that is equally as tasty!  As a note for those unable to properly digest fat like myself, my PK Protocol doctor has me on a few supplements in order to support the absoprtion, including “ox bile,” which I find to be very helpful.  You can find the two varieties that I use in my amazon store, though they can be purchased through many online suppliers as well.  Also, while maple syrup may be more “Paleo-friendly” than white sugar, it is still not part of a true ketogenic diet (or in my case, the PK Protocol).  Therefore while the recipe calls for it, I myself used a mix of stevia and chicory root sweetener.  Though I do not recommend daily consumption of these sugar substitutes, they are great options for those who cannot eat any type of sugar, and are looking for a special treat every now and then. 

 

Homemade White Chocolate
Print Recipe
Ingredients

  • 4 oz raw cocoa butter *AIP substitutions below 
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp maca powder (optional)
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract

Process

  • Fill a sauce pan 2/3rd of the way with water, bringing to a simmer over medium-high heat.
  • Measure cocoa butter on a scale, placing in a heat proof bowl.
  • Put bowl over simmering water, allowing cocoa butter to slowly melt.
  • Once 3/4th of the cocoa butter has melted, remove bowl from heat.
  • Whisk in maple syrup, salt, maca, and vanilla until fully incorporated
  • Spoon mixture into desired molds (or) into a parchment lined loaf pan.
  • Place in freezer, allowing to set for 15 minutes. 
  • Remove chocolate from the freezer, popping out of mold (or) cutting into desired shapes. 
  • Store chocolate at room temperature in a sealed contained and (or) in the fridge/freezer. 
Recipe Notes
For an AIP-Friendly modification, substitute coconut butter for the same amount of raw cocoa butter as listed. 
2 tbsp of coconut oil + 2 tbsp coconut butter, can also replace the cocoa butter.  
*If you are making the AIP version, store the chocolate in the fridge, as the ingredients will soften at room temperature. 
 








Habakkuk 3:19 “The Sovereign Lord is my strength; He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, He enables me to go the heights…” 

Paleo Pumpkin Sausage Soup (AIP)


Besides the last weeks of 2014 being filled with Christmas preparations, I also had more than a dozen doctors appointments, including a few in NYC for my Chinese medicine, PK Protocol, and allergist doctor.   The last one, this past weekend, was directly in the city, allowing me to grab a some chicken from Hu Kitchen for dinner on the way home.  Having this restaurant in the city is such a large stress reliever, as I know I can always rely on finding a piece of good quality protein that I can actually eat.  Typically when I am traveling, I bring a variety of green juices packaged in small mason jars, as a means to get my “daily greens.”  Though I love salads, they tend to be a bit hard on my leaky gut, making shots of green juice perfect for days when I am a extra busy.  
 
 
Speaking of being extra busy, today’s pumpkin sausage soup was created as a way to feed my family who had just taken a day trip to Cape Cod, MA.  I did not go, as I was both already exhausted from previous appointments, and had one the day of.  Therefore, while I spent the day resting, I knew that my family would appreciate a warm, satisfying meal, especially after being in the car all day.  As suspected, everyone was rather happy to come home to a table fully set and warm soup bubbling on the stove, as my mom had previously declared to them it was going to be hot dogs for dinner.  

 
Because I was looking to save energy, I did not carve, roast, and puree a pumpkin, but instead decided to use the extra cans of organic pumpkin that we had stocked up on for Thanksgiving. Together, with the local leeks, pork sausage, homemade beef stock, and just a pinch of cinnamon, this soup was a hit for all around the dinner table.  By combining a bit of sweet and savory ingredients, it came out extremely satisfying, and was voted much better than grilled hot dogs.  Though there were some leftovers, it quickly got eaten up for lunch in the days after, proving the soup to be just as delicious as previously claimed.  
 

Pumpkin Sausage Soup
Print Recipe
(Serves 4-6)
Ingredients
  • 1 1/2 lb pork sausage (or) ground pork  *AIP spices in notes below 
  • 1 cup leeks – sliced
  • 2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp sea salt 
  • 2, 15 oz canned pumpkin 
  • 2 1/2 cup beef stock
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 3 cups spinach 
  • Lard
Process
  • In a large stock pot, heat lard on low heat until melted.
  • Chop pork sausage into chunks, slice leeks, and add both to the pot.
  • Sprinkle with 1 tsp sea salt, thyme, basil, and cinnamon, allowing to sweat out and cook for 10-15 minutes.
  • Once the leeks are soft and sausage cooked through, add in canned pumpkin, maple syrup, and beef stock.
  • Sprinkle with remaining 2 tsp sea salt, stirring until fully combined.
  • Keep the heat on low, allowing the soup to become very hot, about 10-15 minutes.
  • Once hot, stir in spinach until wilted and serve.
Recipe Notes
If you are using plain, ground pork, add an extra tsp of basil, thyme, salt, and oregano, plus a tbsp of garlic powder to the meat.








Isaiah 30:15 “Thus says the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel; “In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and confidence shall be your strength.” 

Paleo Solutions to Your 2015 Resolutions



For most people, the start of a New Year makes them feel motivated and ready to change their life for the better.  However, it seems that most people don’t know where to start, they’re confused because of the differing health and wellness dogma that clouds the media and news, frustrated because of the time it takes to learn their body, and ultimately get discouraged faster than it took to get initially inspired.  While this may be the case for many, I do not believe that finding a healthy life, sticking with it, or even revamping the one you already possess, has to necessarily be a daunting task that is seemingly impossible.  Therefore, today’s post,  which rounds up some of my favorite, previous 2014 posts, are here to help, encourage, and bring hope to your new year.  

Debunk Common Myths Behind… 
 
 
 
Learn About Your Bodies…
 
 
Boost Your Health By…
 
Finding Your Personal Paleo Path 
Knowing how to decipher meat labels at the store 
Consuming super-foods nose to tail style 
Learning the Crossfit-Paleo Connection 
Spreading awareness to the Hidden Epidemic: Lyme Disease
Bouncing on a rebounder
Making tasty Paleo recipes 


Always Remember…

You’re an overcomer
There is Hope for Healing
The past shapes the present
Never judge a book by its cover 
To take the initiative 








Isaiah 4:16, 18-19 “This is what the Lord says— he who made a way through the sea, a path through the mighty waters, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”

Summer Health Update 2014

Don’t ever judge a book by its cover. 

 
 
 
This post is for those of you reading to keep up-to-date on my health status. To put it plainly, if you were to ask how I was doing, I’d probably bluntly answer, “terrible.”  Now, I am not writing this post to cause others to have pity on me. Frankly, pity makes me uncomfortable.  When people ask me how I am doing, and I answer with “bad,” they instantly say that they are sorry, in which I answer “it is fine.” Because, really, it is fine.  I am extremely blessed to have the family God has given me, and the house I am able to live in.  The blessings of life continually pour in every day, however, my health itself is at a total standstill. Three weeks ago I met with Dr. Sheryl Leventhal to discuss my PK Protocol, as well as the blood work I would need to have done.  We have not heard back from her, nor do we know when exactly we will. Realistically, once we do get that phone call, it wont probably be another 3-4 weeks before I begin my IV infusion. In the mean time, my body is in a state of absolute rebellion.  Every bone, joint, and muscle aches, as well as my internal organs and sinuses.  Because bacteria get busy with the full-moon cycle, this past week has been especially horrible.  When they are active, random muscles in my body twitch, and I get the feeling that something is crawling all over me. My calves swell, head pounds, and stomach aches incredibly.

 

For those of you who have not seen me in a few weeks or months, sorry, but time has not healed.  If anything, it has worn my body out more. I have mechanisms to cope, and sometimes you will catch me in a state of “looking good.”  However, whether it was meant to encourage, or simply state a fact, saying “you look great” to a chronically ill person is probably one of their biggest pet peeves.  Truly, we could care less about how we appear.  We just want someone to see beyond that and figure out why our bodies are so messed up.  Looking good, is NOT feeling good, thus the saying “never judge a book by its cover.” Little do people know how many supplements and pills I am on to simply enable me to stand.  Ironically, it is usually the times that I am feeling my worst that someone addresses how I healthy I appear…funny how that works. 
 
So how do I get through? Ultimately, it is by leaning on God and His strength alone.  I cannot rely on my own strength, and if I did, would never get out of bed in the morning.  Learning to incorporate prayers to God throughout my day helps me extremely.  During the first few months of my illness, I developed orthostatic hypotension.   I could not even sit up due to extreme dizziness, and walking was practically impossible.  Yet, somehow, through all the blind trips too and from the bathroom, fainting spells in the living room, and inability to brush my own hair, I was able to get through.  Though this symptom is not as prominent now, due to support from a medication, the same can be applied to everything that I do.  In the end, when you see me, I pray that you see God.  Without Him I would not be able to accomplish anything.  This father’s day, praise your Heavenly Father, “for in Him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will, so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of His glory.”
 


2 Corinthians 12:10 “That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”


Gabriella 

Paleo and Going Against the Grain

Due to grains allowing civilization to flourish, industry to succeed, and thus allow companies to make profit, they have become the centerpiece of our standard diet.  Though whole grains are often viewed as necessary sources of dietary complex carbohydrates and fiber, it may surprise you to learn that we were not made to digest them, whether refined or not.  Over the past decade, many have found they they do better on a gluten-free diet, even if they have not been officially diagnosed celiac .  However, wheat products are not the only source of grain humans should avoid, as we are all actually grain-intolerant to some extent, due to harmful amounts of anti-nutrients present in these foods. Unlike “nutrients,” which benefit the body, “anti-nutrients” have the opposite effect, causing significant health complications in today’s grain-based world.

Lectins

 Grains, which are converted into sugar in the bloodstream, are incredibly dense sources of carbs that are unnecessary for living.  Not only does eating a diet heavy in carbohydrates cause a roller coaster effect on our blood sugar, but insulin levels are chronically elevated, thus setting the stage for inevitable health problems later down the road.  Besides the toxic glucose overload that grains (wheat, rice, millet, rye, sorghum, barley, oats, spelt, amaranth, etc…) provide our body, they also contain anti-nutrients known as lectins.  The two most harmful are known as “prolamins” and “agglutinins,” both of which are naturally occurring toxins that plants use as natural defense mechanisms against predators (UV rays, animals, and harmful bacteria).  When eaten, these proteins damage our intestinal wall by binding to the lining of the GI track, simultaneously inhibiting it from any remission of healing and repair. When this “leaky gut” develops, foreign food proteins escape into the bloodstream, causing an auto immune response where the body literally attacks itself. Due to “molecular mimicry,” lectins are also able to trick various organs outside of the GI track, such as nerve, liver, and thyroid cells, into using them in their normal function and routine.  Because of this, many mild-serious health conditions result, including thyroid and liver disease, fibromyalgia, obesity, heart burn, acid reflux, allergies, skin problems, asthma, autism, cognitives problems, and diabetes.  For these reasons, it is very important that those with an autoimmune disease seek to eliminate all sources of grains from their diet, as the lectin content can significantly exasperate their disorder. Lectins also are known for feeding E.Coli bacteria, binding to insulin receptor, and prompting insulin and leptin resistance, which in turn tricks the brain into believing it is starving (when in reality food being consumed is simply being sent directly to fat storage). In the end, the fact that foods high in these anti-nutrients (i.e. all grains and legumes) cause so much inflammation and trauma throughout the body, proves that they are unfamiliar and therefore unnecessary as part of the human diet.

Phytates

Without getting into too much detail, a second anti-nutrient found in all grains is “phytates,” the salt form of “phytic acid” found in plants.  These compounds bind to essential minerals in the body, causing severe nutrient and mineral deficiencies, as well as osteoporosis (a disease relatively absent before the advent of civilization).  Even if you have yet to suffer from one of these conditions, the belief that grains are “nutritious” (in any form), is simply an oxymoron, as the vitamins and minerals available are unable to be processed due to phytates inhibiting their absorption.  Because of phytates and lectins, even gluten-free foods can serve as problematic for individuals, as they are still filling the body with anti-nutrient dense carbohydrates.

Wheat and Gluten

Out of all the anti-nutrients found in grains, the most commonly known and demonized is gluten. This large, water-soluble protein is considered to be in the “prolamin” category of lectins, and is present in all wheat, rye, and barley.  Though only 1% of the population is officially diagnosed with celiac disease, it is estimated that more than 83% of individuals suffer from a noticeable sensitivity or severe intolerance. Symptoms range from GI, skin, and joint disorders, anemia, bone density loss, equilibrium problems, chronic migraines, learning disabilities, various nervous system issues, autoimmune disease, and even several cancers. All in all, gluten causes systemic inflammation throughout the body, acting as a precursor to chronic illness. However, the gluten protein in wheat products is not the only offender in today’s world, but also the high amount of industrialization and engineering that has occurred over the past decades to create a drought resistant variety known as “dwarf wheat.”  Now, not only does modern-day wheat include gluten, but it also has two incredibly harmful agents; wheat germ agglutination and gliadin protein. When eaten, gliadin binds to opioid receptors in the brain, causing a huge, abnormal stimulation of appetite, making the average person eat 400+ extra calories per day. Because of this, trying to eliminate wheat can seem literally impossible, as the body detoxes from this gluten-dependancy. However, once the body readjusts back to normal function, side effects will vanish, while digestion, elimination, immune function, and inflammation are sure to all improve.

White or Wheat?

All anti-nutrients aside, another reasons grains are detrimental to the body is due to being an “acellular” carbohydrate source, meaning they are are too easily digestible and thus overwhelm and imbalance healthy gut bacteria. Due to this intensive carbohydrate load, glycogen stores are quickly filled up, turning any ingested calories immediately into inaccessible fat. (i.e. triglycerides).  Once a pattern of this eating is continued (as is the case for SAD), stress hormones are triggered to flood the body, which exhausts the adrenal system, pancreas, and immune system, simultaneously creating systemic inflammation, the precursor to all disease. Unlike the popular notion that “whole grains” are great sources of fiber and protein, these items are just as unnecessary as all processed  versions. The only difference in choosing “white” over “wheat,” is that the product is free from its bran and germ components, leaving only the starchy endosperm intact. Because whole grains are not as refined, they naturally contain higher amounts of previously discussed anti-nutrients; lectins, phytates, and gluten.  Though it is true that the more heavily processed grains cause an unhealthy, immediate spike in insulin, the same can be said for whole grains.  Despite the fact that the heightening of insulin happens over a longer period of time, the end result of these “whole” sources is exactly the same; toxic amounts of blood glucose, insulin resistance, fat storage, and chronic disease.

Against the Grain

For those who believe they absolutely “need” their carbs to function, there are plenty of paleo approved foods that allow for more than enough natural carb consumption. It is important to remember that overall tolerance of starchy vegetables and fruit will vary on the individual, which makes experimenting and learning how your own body reacts ultimately the best thing to do. Mega-calorie burners, such as endurance athletes, find that they do better on the “higher” end of the paleo carbohydrate spectrum, averaging around 100-150 grams per day.  If you are less active, trying to lose weight, or follow a more primal-aligned exercise pattern, 50-100 grams of carbs is quite satisfying, while also allowing for adequate amounts of protein and healthy fat. If you are not consuming fruit for their natural carb content, finding high antioxidant, low glycemic varieties such as berries and stone fruit (cherries, prunes, peaches, etc..), is always a great idea. It is also important to eat these fruits when in season and (or) grown locally, instead of foreign and imported varieties (i.e. strawberries the size of golf balls in the middle of winter). Of course, wild options are always the best, as these do not experience pesticides or premature aging, and thus have the highest nutritional value of all.

Summary

After touching on just a few of the reasons why grains are an unnecessary, it is quite clear what the inevitable consequence of their over-consumption is; disease.  With gluten being just one of the offenders, all grains take a tole on our body, resulting in a worn out, damaged, and helpless immune system. Though we obviously are able to “tolerate” grains for a certain extent of time, the rising number of chronic disease and illness serves as proof of our inability to uphold against these toxins. Just because the food industry claims we need them to survive, does not mean that living a grain-free lifestyle is impossible. Pasta, sandwich bread, wraps, and pizza, are all seen as cheap, efficient ways to feed the family. Yet there are many ways that make going grain-free just as affordable, if not cheaper, due to eliminating all high carb, processed food and drinks, while boosting caloric efficiency. It is true that frequent stops in the drive-through lane, dining out, and stocking up on pre-made frozen meals strips one’s finances more than they are aware. Instead, emphasizing real food (i.e. protein, vegetables, fruit, nut/seeds, fat) while avoiding high profit (low nutrition) foods, will not only result in a lighter dent in your wallet, but also an improvement in overall health.

Further Resources:

Grain-free How-To 
Effects of Grain Brain 
Paleo On a Budget 
Paleo Money Myths
Grains are Killing You Slowly
Primal Carbohydrate Curve
Paleo Carb Directory
Against all Grain
Fat is Fuel
 

 

 

 

Isaiah 55:8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.”

Autoimmune Protocol Paleo Snowball Tea Cookies (Apple Flour)

 Waking up to snowfall got me thinking, and with the culinary wheels turning full throttle inside my head, I was ultimately lead to creating today’s Autoimmune-friendly “snowball cookies.” Essentially, these festive treats are the same thing as the European pastry known as “Russian tea cakes.”  In fact, both versions are actually a derivative of an English, cookie-like-pastry from the 17th century, known as “Jumbles.”  Original recipes are very simple, and typically combine flour, nuts, butter, and sugar, with the festive flavors of vanilla, caraway, and (or) anise.  However, their presentation was anything but the latter, as they were twisted into knot patterns or intricate loops.  As the years have progressed, this age-old baked good has been turned into many, modern varieties, including Mexican wedding cookies, Italian wedding cookies, butterballs, and Russian tea cakes as mentioned above.With my snowball variation, I decided to keep things comparatively close to the original recipe, omit the nuts, dairy, and refined sugar, yet still make a buttery, flakey, and delightfully sweet cookie that everyone would enjoy.  Much like my Espresso Fudge Brownies and Santa Brownie Bites, this recipe features Anti-Grain’s Apple Flour.  By combining this naturally sweet ingredient with lard and maple sugar, these cookies came out incredibly flavorful.  I realize that not everyone had the opportunity to back Anti-Grain Flour in their Kickstarter, and thus cannot yet get their hands on these amazing flours.  Therefore, I did a few test batches using arrowroot, sweet potato, and coconut flour, as well as replacing the lard with palm shortening and coconut oil. The use of coconut flour in place of the apple flour worked fantastic, and actually kept better form than the apple flour itself, while replacing lard with palm shortening was also a winner.  However, the coconut oil made a completely flat cookie.  Arrowroot can also successfully be substituted for the tapioca starch, though in my opinion, the tapioca version has a better texture. As a note, you can find all of these flours, as well as the non-hydrogenated palm shortening in my Amazon affiliate store here.   Overall, these cookies were devoured the very day that I made them, and even my mother (who is a lover of real Russian tea cakes), said they were amazing.


Snowball Cookies

Print Recipe

(Makes 28) 
Cookie Ingredients

Powdered Topping Ingredients

Process

  • Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
  • Combine 1 cup of apple and tapioca flour in a small mixing bowl.
  • In a standard mixing bowl, beat lard until whipped and smooth on medium-high.
  • Turning mixture to medium, add in maple sugar, vanilla, and sea salt, continuing to mix until fully combined.
  • Scrape down the sides of your mixing bowl, turning the mixer on low.
  • Slowly spoon in tapioca and apple flour mixture.
  • Once all flour is added, turn mixer to medium-high, beating until a cookie dough has formed.
  • Using your hands, roll dough into 1 inch balls, placing on a parchment lined baking sheet a couple inches apart.
  • Place sheet in the freezer to chill for 10-15 minutes.
  • After the snowballs are down chilling, place in a preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes.
  • In a shallow bowl, mix together topping ingredients.
  • After the cookies are golden, remove from oven and allow to sit for 3-4 minutes.
  • Once they are cool enough to handle, place cookies one at a time into the topping mixture, rolling until fully coated.
  • Repeat with remaining cookies, placing on a plate for serving.
  • Dust the tops of cookies with more powdered sugar mixture and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

If you do not want to make a full recipe, 1/2, or even 1/4th recipes work great!
Coconut flour acts as a fantastic replacement for apple flour.
Non-hydrogenated palm shortening can be used in place of lard.
*Do not make these cookies with coconut oil, unless you want a flat cookie.

 Isaiah 30:18 “Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore He will rise up to show you compassion.  For the Lord is God of justice.  Blessed are all who wait for Him!”

Beauty Sleep: A Primal New Year’s Resolution

sleep


The science behind sleep remains a mystery to most individuals, it’s common knowledge that everyone has their own ideal bed environment to enable them to get a good sleep. However, as sleep disorders, stress, sickness, disease, and overall health of the human race declines, the importance of learning about this nightly activity is rising. Therefore, today I have decided to discuss the various information that I learned through completing Mark Sisson’s Primal Blueprint Certification course. Throughout the certification, I was taught why it is so important to get adequate amounts of sleep, what a “good nights rest” actually means, and the varying factors that can effect the overall productivity of sleeping as a whole.

What is Your Circadian Rhythm?
We were born synchronized with the rising and setting of the sun, and thus are hardwired to follow its lead when it comes to sleep and wake cycles. This pattern is known as one’s circadian rhythm, and is what ultimately directs important hormone secretion, patterns in eating, sleeping, and brain waves, as well as regeneration and repair at a cellular level. The cycle itself is 24 hours, and is severely compromised due to many modern world calamities, such as blue light from electronics, alarm clocks, overall poor diet and high carbohydrate meals in the evening, working night shifts, alcohol, sleep aids, and many other factors. When this happens, thinking, learning, focusing, weight management, and excelling in everyday activities, becomes compromised, even when one does not realize it. Instead of the body being able to handle the inevitable stress of merely surviving in life, the seemingly small, insignificant factors become detrimental, causing accelerated aging and neurological decline. As the sun goes down, melatonin raises in the blood stream, causing one to become sleepy and ready for bed. This process happens through the pineal gland, which begins converting serotonin into melatonin, inducing a good night’s rest, and therefore is termed “Dim Light Melatonin Onset” (i.e. DLMO). As this process begins, one’s body temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing all slow down as well. In the morning, when one awakes and is exposed to sunlight, the pineal gland becomes active once more, working to raise one’s serotonin levels, as well as the stress hormone cortisol for the first 30 minutes after rising. Unlike chronically elevated stress hormones, this spike in cortisol is something that the body wants and needs as a means to prepare itself, through genetic mechanisms, for the busy day ahead. However, this process of elevating one’s serotonin and cortisol, is at its prime in the beginning hours of the sun’s rise, making those who get up early, the most benefited.

Why Sleep is a Big Deal

While the body is asleep, many adaptive and growth hormones (such as testosterone), become active rebuilding the organs, muscles, and overall well being of one’s body, causing it to feel rejuvenated in the morning. Not only that, but specific white blood cells begin killing off any unwanted bacteria, while macrophages and leukocytes also kick into high gear, making sure that the “good” flora stay healthy as well. Through the activation of human growth hormone (i.e. HGH), fat is burned, while certain parts of the brain responsible for emotional and social health are also rested. That being said, when the body is in a state of chronic sleep deficit, appetite, metabolism, and storage of carbohydrates, are significantly altered. This causes one’s overall mood, ability to focus, be productive, and retention of key information to be compromised, while internal factors, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and stress hormone levels, all skyrocket, simultaneously weakening the immune system, and thus leading to heart disease, cancers, sexual dysfunction, premature aging, and weight gain.

sleepcycle-1

Your Sleep Cycle

So, what exactly happens when you close your eyes and go to sleep on the Best Sleep Number Alternative, or similar mattress, on your bed? For starters, the brain is quite active, responding to differing, internal stimuli, simultaneously phasing into the four stages of sleep; N1 (first, five minute transition into sleep), N2 (10-15 minutes), N3 (deepest sleep stage with restorative and adaptive hormones flowing, repairing cells and muscles), and REM (i.e. “dream sleep” – 20% of sleep cycle, paralyzation of legs and arms, improvement of spatial, perceptual, and visual skills). It is in the second stage of sleep (i.e. N2), that one’s heart rate and body temperature decreases, while eye movement completely stops. Information is “uploaded” for further storage during later REM sleep, while learning and motor skills are strengthened. This process is known as “long-term potentiation,” and becomes critical as one’s learning increases with age. Next, one’s body phases into the third, deepest stage of sleep, known as N3. This is where blood is directed away from the brain towards the muscles, organs, and bones, where it is able to restore physical energy through restorative, adaptive hormones, and macronutrient synthesis. This can also be called “non-REM” sleep, and usually happens for 70-90 minutes into one’s sleep cycle. Last but not least, REM sleep arrives, which is named for the rapid eye movement that occurs. As mentioned previously, one’s legs and arms are put into paralyzation mode, while heart and blood pressure raise, and breathing becomes shallow. Emotional experiences from the day prior are sorted out, while perceptual visual, spatial, memory, and cognitive skills are improved, as well as the production of important neurotransmitters; dopamine and serotonin. Overall, the body repeats through these 4, non-REM and REM stages of sleep during night, taking a total of 90 minutes to go through once. This process as a whole is known as “synaptic homeostasis,” and is where the body refreshes the spaces between its nerve cells (i.e. synapses). The more stimulation one experiences during the day time, the more the bodies cell communicators grow. Therefore, it is undoubtedly critical to get the uninterrupted sleep that successfully goes throughout non-REM and REM cycles, to ensure that these synapses are restored.

Quality Over Quantity
Ultimately, it is the amount of full sleep cycles that the body goes through that is important to feeling and look good, not the amount or hours. However, outside disturbances in this world’s hectic life, can have a big influence on these optimal hormonal processes that occur during these differing stages of sleep, and thus can be a large problem in one’s health. It’s why some people have started looking to devices that stimulate vagus nerve – the nerve responsible for calming the body from shocking and stressful events, thus helping to induce quality sleep with fewer interruptions.
theifnight-1
Digital Stimulation
Though most people tend to “wind down” with evening TV shows, especially if they have infinity dish with all those thousands of channels, this activity is actually quite detrimental to both their sleep, and the important processes that occur while they are asleep. Cortisol, which is a stress hormone that makes us feel alert and awake in the morning, is very sensitive to the blue light emitted from TV, computer, and phone screens. Therefore, when we are exposed to these digital gadgets after the sun goes down, instead of DLMO (i.e. Dim Light Melatonin Onset) happening, cortisol stays elevated, making the body be tricked into thinking it is not the least bit tired. This causes people to stay up late watching their favorite drama series, playing video games, or simply texting in bed. These activities interfere with one’s circadian rhythm by raising the bodies natural (and usually unnoticed) stress response, causing little work to be done on hormonal balance, brain function, mood, and metabolism, while one finally does fall asleep. The longer one is exposed to blue light, the worse off their health becomes, and typically becomes quite noticeable once one reaches mid 30-40’s, as work stress, and excess digital stimulation, have thrown their circadian rhythm off, and thus the biological rejuvenation that happens at night, suffers immensely. Overall, as one’s immune system slowly declines, their mood, energy, fat metabolism, and cognitive function, are also severely compromised. However, this situation is not deemed hopeless, as there are some easy, practical ways we can counteract the culprit (i.e. blue light) that is wrecking our optimum gene expression. One such pracical way is through vagal tone stimulation. The vagus nerve is a nerve in yur body When measured on the Kelvin temperature scale, blue light clocks in at 6,500 K, compared to 1,800 K of a candle, incandescent indoor light at 3,000 K, and the sun at its midday, peak light of 5,500 K. Once these numbers are compared, it is quite easy to see why blue light is so detrimental to one’s health. Ultimately, it is not natural, and thus the human body was not made to tolerate it, causing increased overall hunger and sugar cravings, sleep deficits, insulin production (and thus fat storage), while also a spike in the risk of degenerative eye disease and certain cancers. Unlike blue light, red-orange-yellow light does not effect melatonin secretion, but rather relaxes the central nervous system, aiding in a good nights rest. To combat the modern day calamity of blue light, wearing orange tinted glasses once the sun sets, or downloading the program F.lux, which changes one’s screen temperature closely to that of the hue of the sun, are all great, effective options. Other ways to get the most out of your sleep are to remove all electronics from the bedroom, keep thermostat to 60-68 degrees F, and even purchasing a calming noise machine, can all be extremely helpful, and make your room the way you body prefers to rest in.
Turn the Lights Off

Despite those who are able to fall asleep in any atmosphere, even the smallest amount of light exposure can hinder the beneficial, hormonal effects of sleeping, causing overall restoration to be suppressed. Though wearing sleep masks can be helpful and relaxing for one’s eyes, it is actually the entire body that is sensitive to light. Studies have shown that even the smallest amount of exposure when one is supposed to and (or) is fast asleep, disrupts the internal biological, rejuvenating processes. One study, showed that the simple act of flashing a beam of light across the back of one’s knee while sleeping, noticeably disrupted their melatonin release. Another study preformed 2-3 hours after one’s bedtime, using 2 millisecond of light every 30 minutes, for an hour straight, proved that the light, though inconceivable to the naked eye, did penetrate the eyelids and thus disrupted melatonin secretion. Overall, these studies show why it is incredibly important to sleep in a dark room, as our bodies “night-shift” was made to work best in these conditions

Food Induced Coma

While it is easy, and rather fulfilling to one’s “comfort food” preferences, to buy into the statement that eating high carb meals helps one sleep, this saying is actually very misleading. Because of the surge of insulin that carbohydrates naturally produce in the body, having a meal that is high in this component can significantly alter the quality of sleep, regardless of if one takes notice of it or not. Instead of the body focusing on rejuvenating muscles, organs, and tissue, it is busy trying to digest the food and put it to proper use. For this reason, it is good idea to eat heavier meals earlier on in the day, as a light meal at night allows the body to focus on the nightly routine of restoring itself. Drinking alcohol near the hours of bedtime can also significantly reduce the quality of one’s sleep, due to interference with hormone flow. Therefore, while certain foods rich in L-Tryptophan (i.e. nuts, eggs, cheese, and meat) may aid in the release of melatonin, intake of these foods around bedtime is rather minuscule compared to the other components that may alter one’s sleep quality.


Is Napping Necessary?

As one gets older, the tendency to take afternoon naps tends to arise. However, napping should not be ignored in those of younger ages, as it can be a necessary component of getting the much needed “battery charge” one’s body needs. Though having a synched circadian rhythm may take away the need for a nap, they can be incredibly helpful to those with a disrupted sleep cycle. Due to the internal rejuvenation that goes on during sleep not being fulfilled, taking short naps are efficient ways to easily catch up on the much needed non-REM and REM sleep. If one is feeling sleep pressure (i.e. the desire to take a nap), 20-30 minutes is quite enough to restore one’s worn out nervous system through balancing the brain’s sodium:potassium ratio. In order to catch up on REM sleep, taking earlier hour naps, such as those in the morning, are the most effective to target this specific sleep phase, and help one feel energized for the rest of the day. However, if one naps in the afternoon, the body focuses on the processes that are lacking from overall, deep sleep deficiency, making them feel groggy and seemingly more tired once waking. Yet this will only last for a few minutes, after which brain function and adaptive hormones will begin working at peak levels. Overall, if one feels the urge to nap in order to focus properly, they are most likely right. It is also key to note that there is no need to worry about later, regular sleep times being compromised by taking morning or afternoon naps, as these can actually combat any insomnia, due to one’s circadian rhythm being back on track.

Sleep Summary

Despite those who claim that they can run off of less than four hours of sleep, this time of rest is key to longevity, peak performance in athleticism, work, and daily life, as well as weight loss/maintenance, and overall thriving for every human. While clocking in enough hours may be important, the standard 7-8 hours preached to us by conventional wisdom is not necessarily the end-all be-all. Instead, sleep habits should adjust to the season and the sunlight that changes according to the given latitude and time of year. One should aim for 9.5 hours of sleep, of which begins 4-5 hours after sunset, during 7-6 months out of the year when days are shorter. The remaining, longer, summer days, should include 8 hours or less of sleeping, that begins 1-2 after sunset (“Lights out: Sleep, Sugar, and Survival” by T.S Wiley and Bent Formby). Sadly, it is said that 40% of people get less than five hours of sleep, while 75% of people suffer from sleep disorders (Harvard School of Public Research) However, it does not have to be this way, as the key to getting restorative sleep is simply to synchronize one’s habits with the rising and setting of the sun. Yet the rise of digital stimulation in today’s industrialized world puts a serious damper on this task, as blue light and other, bright house lights, stop the process of DLMO (i.e. Dim Light Melatonin Onset), making most individuals stay up much longer than their body prefers. This causes stress hormones to elevate, while other internal processes are simultaneously suppressed, causing a weakened immune system and thus accelerated aging. That being said, hese problems can be easily combated by wearing orange tinted glasses once the sun goes down, and (or) installing the free, F.Lux software on electronic devices. On the flip side, it is also important to try and expose oneself to direct sunlight upon waking, as this will lower melatonin levels, simultaneously flooding the body with serotonin and a spike of cortisol, allowing one to feel happy, refreshed, and ready to tackle the day ahead. From personal experience with disrupted sleep due to the effects of Chronic Lyme, I find wearing orange tinted glasses to significantly help me fall asleep at night. Instead of feeling “wired” after watching a TV show, my body feels much more relaxed and sleepy, allowing me to fall asleep quite effortlessly. For further reading, please visit the links that I have provided below.

Related Reading:

Matthew 6:34 “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

Paleo Roasted Garlic Dip (AIP)

 Christmas has officially come and gone.  All physical aspects aside, mine was great, though I am not going to lie, it was very painful, as I have been feeling considerably worse this past month.  All body issue aside, God has certainly blessed me with an amazing family that I would not trade for the world.  Not only that, but I was reminded of what a blessing it is that God came down to earth as a child, in order for me to be saved eternally from the suffering that I experience here and now. Without this act of utter humility, I would not have an ounce of strength to get through the physical pain that I do on a daily basis.  Remy, the dog picture above and below, is another reason I can get through the day, as he really is one of my greatest sources of joy outside of Jesus and my family.  Below I have also included a few pictures of what was served in my house at Christmas, as well as a recipe that I made as an appetizer.

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After creating my sweet potato pitas, I knew coming up with a dip that people could make to go along side of them was a must.  Because the pitas use water chestnut flour, and thus have an Indian flare, I decided to make a recipe that had the flavor profile somewhere a long the same lines as roasted eggplant dip and hummus. Growing up, I always loved eating hummus as a snack, and can still remember the savory, yet slightly sweet flavor on my taste buds to this day.  I find that in standard American diet cooking, dips are seen as foods that “pack on extra pounds” at Holiday parties, and thus should be limited for those looking to “stay trim.”  Therefore, I wanted to create a recipe that people could actually feel GOOD about eating, yet at the same time, make it so that they could not even tell the difference between my version and a “regular” dip.  After putting together a few flavor combinations in my head, I was able to make this roasted garlic dip a reality, last Thursday, on Christmas.   Overall, this recipe was a hit on our appetizer table, as we served it along side plantain chips.  Of course, because of the whole food ingredients, this dip could easily be served as a side dish at any main meal, or used as a spread on lettuce wraps.  Whichever way you chose to use it, I know that it will always be thoroughly enjoyed.  Instead of feeling guilty about doubling up on the dip, you can now feel amazing during AND after indulging in this flavorful, nutrient-dense recipe!

Roasted Garlic Dip

Print Recipe

(Serves 8-10) 
Ingredients

  • 1 lb parsnips
  • 1 lb cauliflower
  • 1 medium lemon – juiced
  • 3 heads of garlic
  • 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 3 tbsp lard
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or more lard)

Process 

  • Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
  • Wash, dry, and cut parsnips into 1/2 inch rounds.
  • Cut cauliflower of the stem and chop into like size “trees.”
  • In a mixing bowl, coat parsnips and cauliflower with olive oil and one teaspoon of salt.
  •   Cut the tops of the garlic heads off, placing in tin foil and making a little packet.
  • Spread vegetables onto a baking sheet.
  • Place baking sheet and foil packet in the oven and bake for 30 minutes until browned.
  • Once done cooking, remove garlic from its cloves and place in a food processor fitted with the “S” blade.
  • Put vegetables in the processor as well, letting run until smooth.
  • Add in remaining 1/2 tsp sea salt, lard, and lemon juice, pureeing until fully combined.
  • Scoop dip into serving dish for appetizers (or) serve as a side dish.
 
 






Romans 8:1-2 “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.  For the law of the Spirit of Life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.”

Paleo Sweet Potato Pita Bread (AIP)

Today’s recipe was made quite some time ago.  However, I did not want to post it until 1. I had made it more than once, and 2. I created a dip recipe to go along side of it.  Now that Christmas is over, I officially have made a garlic dip recipe that pairs perfectly with these little pitas, of which I will be posting sometime in the near future.  
 
Overall, these pitas are fun to not only make, but also eat, regardless of if you have something to dip them in.  My mother enjoyed hers with some leftover, roasted chicken, while other family members and friends enjoyed them as an appetizer and side dish for their main meal.  The pitas are also fabulous along side my Chicken Curry Soup, as well as the roasted garlic dip that I made on Christmas day (stay tuned for the recipe). With a unique taste from the water chestnut flour, these savory, mini pits are similar to that of the Indian dish, “Singhade ki Poori.”  As a note, make sure to not heat the oil too hot, as this will cause the pitas to burn without puffing up.  They would also be great as one, big flatbread, that you simply cut into strips once fried.  In the end, these sweet potato pitas are packed with flavor, and really, the perfect finger food for anyone!  
 
 

Sweet Potato Pita Bread

(Makes 8-10)
Ingredients
  • 4 oz sweet potato (1/2 cup) – peeled 
  • 1 cup water chestnut flour
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 2 tsp lard + 1/4 cup for frying
  • Green onion – chopped

Process

  • Place steamer basket in a small pot, filling with an inch or two of water.
  • Peel and chop sweet potato, place it in the basket, and bring the water to a boil.
  • Once boiling, place lid on pot, allowing the sweet potato to cook until fork tender for 10-20 minutes. *Time will depend on how big your chunks are
  • Once tender, remove sweet potato from basket and place in a food processor fitted with a “S” blade, pureeing until smooth.
  • Next, add in water chestnut flour, sea salt, and 2 tsp lard, pulsing until a dough forms.
  • Roll pieces of the dough into small, ping-pong sized balls, and flatten with the palm of your hand on a flour dusted surface about 1/4 inch thick. *Repeat with remaining dough. 
  •  In a large skillet, heat remaining lard on medium heat.
  • Once sizzling, add 4-5 little patties of dough at a time.
  •  Turn heat to medium-low, cooking until browned for about 3-5 minutes per side. 
  • Place fried pitas on a dish lined with parchment paper to sop up any excess oil.
  • Sprinkle with green onion and extra sea salt. 
  • Eat immediately and enjoy with my roasted garlic dip (here) or chicken curry soup (here).
Recipe Notes
The pitas are best warm, right off of the skillet.
You can also form the dough into larger rectangles and slice into strips once fried.
 
 






Psalm 42:5 “Why are you in despair, oh my soul? and why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shal again priase Him for the help of His presence.” 

Paleo Cookie Dough in a Jar

Regardless of if it is Christmas, New Years, Thanksgiving, Easter, Valentines day, or really any other holiday where gifts may be present, I love using them as an excuse to make food for people.  One item that always intrigues people is the differing versions of nut butter I make.  Whether by utilizing different spices, oils, or combination of nuts, everyone always loves the alternative to regular peanut and almond butter.  I also made and gave away my “pecan pie” butter, and you can find that recipe by clicking here, as well as many other nut and seed butter variations.  Really, there is nothing easier than making homemade nut butter, as you simply stick everything in a food processor and walk away.  Well, you can walk away, if you want, that part is optional.  However, this does come in handy when I want to be doing something other than standing in the kitchen.  With Christmas and New Years right around the corner, I thought that giving out small jars of my pecan pie nut butter was a must.  I also got creative and decided to create a knew variety that I call “cookie dough.”  Sweet, salty, smooth, and creamy, this combination of roasted cashews and brazil nuts makes for the perfect snack on your favorite fruit, or simply by the spoonful.   Of course, this recipe is not AIP Paleo, however, it is a great gift alternative to the typical Christmas cookie, and tends to be welcomed and loved by all ages.

 Cookie Dough Nut Butter in a Jar

Print Recipe

Ingredients

Process

  • In a food processor fitted with the “S” blade, puree brazil nuts, sea salt, and cashews until smooth.
  • Scrap down the sides, add in maple sugar, vanilla, and MCT oil if using, and allow the food processor to run until fully incorporated.
  • Scoop cookie dough butter into small, 4 oz mason jars.
  • Sprinkle each jar with a few tbsp of chocolate chips.
  • Place a label and ribbon on each mason jar.
  • Give out to friends and family!

 

 

James 1:17 “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights.”

Paleo Christmas Cookie Exchange (AIP Friendly)

It is officially less than a week away from Christmas! Are you ready?  I personally still have some gift wrapping and making to do.  However, the closer it gets to Christmas, the more I enjoy the excitement that comes a long with preparing gifts that I will be giving to others.  Another tradition that begins the week of Christmas, is last minute baking of various cookies.  Our three classics are Martha Stewart’s sugar cookies, molasses spice, and a new favorite, dark chocolate nests.  Therefore, while my family will be baking away on their treats, I thought I would roundup a few of the great, Paleo versions.  As a note, most of the treats in this “cookie exchange,” are AIP friendly (marked with a *), while a few are not. Happy baking, and may you have a wonderful, blessed Christmas! 

Sugar and Shortbread

Sugar Cookie Cutouts*

Paleo Partridge Shortbread Cookies*

Macaroons

He Wont Know It’s Paleo Pumpkin Spice Macaroons 

Sweet Treats Coconut Macaroons*

 

Ginger and Spice

Gingerbread Men*

Molasses Spice Cookies*

Sweet Potato and Social Change Molasses Spice Cookies*

Grazed and Enthused Ginger Sandwich Cookies*

He Won’t Know It’s Paleo Gingerbread House*

 The Paleo Partridge Molasses Cookies*

Autoimmune Paleo Gingersnaps*

 
 

Chocolate

Santa Hat Brownie Bites*

Double Chocolate Maple Bacon Cookies

Cookie Dough Bites

 

Thumbprint

Sweet Potato and Social Change Thumbprint Cookies*

Biscuits and Jam Thumbprint Cookies

Ginger Jam Thumbprint Cookies*

 





Matthew 6:8 “Your Father knows what you need before you ask.”

An Autoimmune Keto Approach to Paleo

 
Because most of the recipes I create are now directed to those on an autoimmune approach to Paleo, I tend to get labeled as a blogger “using the Autoimmune-Paleo diet to heal herself.”  While this is true and all, it is not necessarily my entire story.  To begin, Chronic Lyme is not only an autoimmune disease, but also a neurological disease.  Therefore, while an infection of Borrelia Burgdorferi does cause the body to attack itself (i.e. autoimmunity), it also creates neurodegenerative and mitochondrial damage, of which I both have.   
 
Diet for Neurological Diseases
 
As previously mentioned in posts where I discuss the PK Protocol, because Lyme went untreated for so long in my body, all other attempts to find healing (outside of the IVIG infusions) have proven to be unsuccessful.  This is due to the degree of damage that the infection, co-infections, and resulting effects have had on my body.  A major part of the PK Protocol, is a ketogenic approach to the Paleo diet, that aids in the redevelopment and healing of one’s cells. Avoiding carbs has nothing to do with being afraid of them, but rather a necessary component of ridding my cells of toxins and fatty lipid rafts that have accumulated through the oxidative damage, as well as the restoration and regrowth.  Because cells are ultimately made up of fat, following a high fat diet is subsequently the best fit for the protocol.  
 
Diet for Autoimmune Diseases 

Then there is the autoimmune-Paleo approach to healing, that removes all pro-inflammatory foods to help the body reduce the attacks it has on itself and thus heal from a given, seemingly “incurable” autoimmune disease.  This aspect of Lyme Disease comes into place when the infection is left untreated for awhile, and thus becomes chronic.  When this happens, the body continues to fight off what it views as “foreign invaders,” regardless of if spirochetes are still present or not.  Of course, the body has a good reason for this, as more than likely the full amount of bacteria has not been eradicated due to biofilms and secret hiding places (lymph nodes, cerebral cortex, spinal fluid, in between cells, etc) that previous treatment could not and (or) can not reach. 
My Body, My Approach 
 
 Putting these two diets together is what I call an “autoimmune-ketogenic” approach to Paleo.  While I must strictly eat a ketogenic diet for scientific, medical reasons, eating “autoimmune” is something that I implemented into my life many years prior, as a way to try and help my body heal.  However, while this diet does reduce some of the inflammation that I experience, it is has not necessarily furthered in my healing, despite the years I have strictly followed it.  That being said, while my PK Protocol doctor has shown and proven me why I need to eat a high fat, low carb, moderate protein diet to heal, I have not put all of my previous, autoimmune knowledge to the way side.  Eating ketogenic is not much of a switch from Paleo, except for that dairy products are a bit more readily embraced as part of the “diet.” The only changes for me where altering and upping my fat intake according to the blood work that determined what my cells are deficient in.  By altering I mean making sure that I get the specific fatty acids that my body is negative in.   Funny as it may sound, this includes omega-6, as I am extremely high in omega-3’s, and very low in omega-6s.  As previously mentioned, it is not about having an over-abundance of omega-3’s that makes one healthy, but rather the proper balance.  This ratio is one that I am looking to fix on the PK Protocol as my cells begin to heal.  I had to take out all form of starchy vegetables, all forms of sugar (including fruit, though I didn’t do this anyways), and carbs in any other form you can think of.  Raw sheep dairy, which is not part of an autoimmune protocol, is also part of my diet, as my body tends to love and welcome this food almost always, and allows me to get the needed fat into my diet.
 
The Difference Between the Two
 
An autoimmune-paleo approach is based off of scientific research for those with autoimmune disease, as is the ketogenic for those with neurological illnesses.  Therefore, while eating very low carb, high fat, is needed for healing my cellular makeup, the autoimmune component is my way of coping with inflammatory symptoms on a daily bases (plus the much needed healing aspects).   Though my PK Protocol doctor wishes I could eat more nuts, seeds, and eggs, due to differing components that they possess, eating them sends my body into a state of emergency, and thus can not be added to my diet at this time.   I will not be on a ketogenic diet forever, and much like the autoimmune approach to Paleo, it will be tweaked once my body begins to truly heal.  Therefore, while I may not eat more than half of the recipes I post on Beyond the Bite  (the family determines and tastes recipes for me), due to having to eat strictly high fat, moderate protein, low carb, most all AIP “rules” are part of my life as well.  
 
 
Where the Lines Overlap 
 
So how do these diets overlap? Well, to put it plainly, there aren’t many foods outside of fat, protein, and leafy greens that I can actually eat.  Due to the leaky gut, small nerve damage in my GI track, and overactive MAST cells, my foods rotate, while I also stick strictly low-FOMAP on a daily basis.  I do not eat this way as a means to control every morsel of food that enters into my body, but rather as a combination of healing diets, both driven by doctor’s orders and my own, personal intuition.  Of course, if you all would like to see some of the recipes I make on a weekly basis, please feel free to give me a shout out.  The main reason of writing this article is to share awareness to the fact that there is more than one, healing, Paleo diet.  Regardless of what the “rules” are of a given protocol, it truly is best to customize the foods based off of what you know your body does best with.  If you are sick enough, this may also include scientifically proven labs and testing such as the one’s through BodyBio lab for the PK Protocol (i.e cellular distortion, GI function, immune status, lipid metabolism, nitrogen retention, overall toxicity status, etc).  For me, the most important aspect of my diet that I must always comply to is the ketogenic approach.  What does this mean? Fat, fat, and more fat.  On the other end of the spectrum, I eat absolutely no carbs.  This may scare some, as they believe that those on a high fat diet do not get enough nutrients and variety to benefit my body.  However, my body has come to state of utter depletion that my doctor and I are starting at ground one.  There is no worry about other arising health complications, as truly there is nothing else that could go wrong in my body.  Instead, I have a team of doctors who are ensuring that my body is always in a safe state while following a ketogenic diet.  From a personal standpoint, I know for certain that my body is benefiting from this protocol, even more so than that of an “autoimmune” approach.  In the end, one’s approach to a healing diet really depends on what is wrong or messed up in their own specific, personal body.  While following a Paleo/Primal diet is certainly the most beneficial for all human kind, finding alterations further into this way of eating may be needed to find complete healing.  For me, this includes what I have termed an “Autoimmune-Keto Approach.”

Speak up, Speak out 
 
I’d also love to hear from you!  Let me know how you have used various healing diets, taken into account what you body does best with, and used both personal and documented, scientific research to aid in true healing. #Beyondthebite4life on Twitter or Instagram and let the world know! 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Luke 2:14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

Paleo Santa Hat Brownie Bites (AIP Friendly)

 Today’s Christmas themed brownie bites came out of inspiration from watching various cooking shows.  I love the festivity that these shows bring to all of the differing holidays, and they always get me excited to further my recipe experimentation in the kitchen.  Therefore, when I saw a segment on Rachel Ray for Santa Hat treats, I decided there was no reason I could not replicate the recipe for those not on the SAD (standard American diet).  As noted in the original recipe post, I have included an Autoimmune friendly version for my brownies, ensuring even those on the healing protocol can enjoy this festive treat.  Really, with three vegetables/fruit (plantain, sweet potato, & avocado), I have never seen such a nutrient dense brownie out there yet!  To view my  original, espresso fudge brownie recipe, you can do so by clicking here.  There, you can also find the recipe to make the Autoimmune-Paleo friendly version.  All in all, these Santa hat brownie bites were a serious hit! I brought them to one of my integrative manual therapy sessions, and everyone was overjoyed at not only the cute presentation, but how delicious the actual treat was.  Not only were the brownies loved, but they could not get over how tasty the frosting was.  Therefore, I knew I must share them with the world, as they are truly a dessert everyone will love, both Paleo or not! I know you will enjoy them just as much as my friends and family did this blessed Christmas.   

 

Santa Hat Brownie Bites 

Ingredients

Process

  • Make brownies as directed, allowing to completely cool before cutting into shapes.
  • While the brownies are cooling, prepare the frosting by pureeing all of the ingredients together in a food processor until smooth.
  • Transfer frosting to a piping bag, placing in the fridge to firm for 10-15 minutes. 
  • Wash and dry strawberries, cutting off the stems. 
  • Once cooled, cut brownies into small circles using a small cookie cutter or top of a glass.  *I used a plastic shot glass.

 

  • Pipe about a tbsp of frosting on top of each brownies bite.
  • Place a strawberry upside down to create santa’s hat, and pipe a small dot of frosting on top of the hat to finish. 
  • Place on a serving platter and enjoy!
 
 
 
 
 
 
Romans 8:31 “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”

AIP Paleo Espresso Fudge Brownies (Coconut-Free)


As a lover of all things chocolate, I decided that I needed to make a super chocolatey dessert recipe for my blog.  Ever since I was young, my mother has been making brownies from scratch.  As one of the most simplest baked goods to create (along side chocolate chip cookies), boxed baking mixes were, and are, never to be found in my house.  Therefore, despite this allergen free version being far from a typical brownie, the execution and skill needed to succeed in making it, is still very low.  Though cocoa and espresso powder are not Autoimmune Paleo friendly, I new that making a tasty alternative would be a great option for those on the protocol. Because of my deep love for chocolate, carob has never been my favorite.  Therefore, instead of seeing it as a substitute, I simply see carob as another ingredient on the “wheel of food.” That being said, these brownies, both AIP and not, have been voted as incredibly delicious.  Rich, fudgey, and smooth, with hints of coffee and dark chocolate, these brownies are similar to that of a flourless chocolate cake.  In reality, they practically are, just without all of the butter and eggs.  Instead, these brownies are filled with literal whole foods (i.e. plantain and sweet potato) delicious saturated fat (yes, lard is good for you), and unrefined maple syrup.  As previously mentioned, for the Autoimmune Paleo version, I substituted the carob for cocoa, and whole, ground chicory root for espresso powder.  Also, I halved the about of sugar, and added mashed avocado to compensate for the missing moisture content that the maple syrup adds to the finished product.

 

~~~~~~~

Earlier this year, I came across a Kickstarter to back Anti-Grain flours.  As a business dedicated to crafting vibrant, “gut friendly” vegetable and fruit flours, the folks behind Anti-Grain aim to revitalize the foods we, Paleo-fiends, love.  One thing you may notice when viewing their flours are the bright colors that they retain.  This is due to the ingredients being U.S.A grow and drum-dried “at relatively low temperatures to retain as much nutrients as possible.” Though I chose to use their sweet potato flour, I do not see why Anti-Grain’s apple and (or) butternut squash flour would not work just as well.  All have a slight reminiscence of their derivative ingredient, which ultimately is naturally sweet and flavorful, whether squash, apple, or sweet potato. That being said, if you did not have the opportunity to back Anti-Grain flours, and (or) are waiting until they officially begin taking orders, I successfully made the brownies using tiger nut flour as well.  Tapioca and regular sweet potato flour will most likely also work, while I have yet to test water chestnut flour or coconut flour.   As a side note, because of the extra moisture that coconut flour naturally soaks up, I would recommend starting with half the amount noted below in the ingredients list.  To find all of the ingredients used in the brownies, I have included links to all of them through the names themselves, as I do this in all of my posts  to ensure others can find them as easy as possible. *To make these into Christmas Themed, Santa Claus bites, click here. *


Espresso Fudge Brownies

Print Recipe

Ingredients

Process

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • In a food processor fitted with the “S” blade, puree one green plantain until smooth, transferring to a bowl and setting aside for later use.
  • Combine lard, sweet potato puree, green plantain puree, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, pureeing until smooth.
  • Add in sweet potato flour, grain free baking powder, espresso powder, sea salt, and cocoa powder, letting the food processor run until batter is fully mixed.
  • Line a an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper that overlaps the sides.
  • Pour batter into prepared pan, sprinkle with chocolate chips, and place on a baking sheet, putting the sheet in preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  • Allow to cool fully until taking the brownies out of the pan.
  • For a Christmas themed treat, frost with my vanilla buttercream and top with a strawberry.
  • Otherwise, cut into desired squares, place on serving platter, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

For an AIP Friendly Brownie – substitute carob for cocoa, reduce maple syrup to 1/4 cup, add 1/4 cup ripe avocado, and replace ground coffee for ground chicory root.
If you do not have canned sweet potato puree, simply roast or steam whole sweet potato until fork tender, then puree in a food processor.
For homemade espresso powder, simply set your coffee grinder to the finest setting and grind any coffee you have on hand.




Numbers 6:25 “the Lord makes His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you.”

Awareness to the Hidden Epidemic


Though Chronic Lyme is ignored by many conventional medical doctors, there are a few, outside of the “system,” that are truly pioneering in the study of this debilitating illness. The information that they learn about the effects of a single tick bite is rather astonishing. Therefore, I decided to put together an article summarizing some of the most unknown, yet key facts about Lyme Disease, that can ultimately be useful to both the victim and observer. Some of the information presented is from Dr. Leo Galland, an incredibly wise functional medicine doctor stationed in NYC, that has had a major role in “peeling back the many layers of the onion” that Chronic Lyme is in my body.

The Deadly Flaws of Lyme Testing

Think getting a blood test for acute and (or) suspected chronic Lyme is accurate? Thank again. Those with an early stage infection only get detected 40% of the time, and only a third of individuals actually get a bullseye rash. If you are lucky, antibodies will show, however, out of the 25 spirochete strains identified, only one is tested. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (i.e the CDC) largely overstates how easy it is to diagnose Lyme, allowing doctors to whole heartedly advocate that their testing is completely reliable, when it is actually an incredibly flawed, “two-tiered” test. According to Holly Ahern, associate professor of microbiology at the State University of New York, Adirondack, “doctors are missing easily half the cases of Lyme disease due to the testing being as reliable as a coin toss.” Much like myself, patients with late stage infections will almost always test negative for Lyme, whether due to the illness beating down one’s immune system for so long prior, development of another tick-borne infection, or simply due to being on medications that inevitably stifle the immunity of one’s body. The notion that Lyme testing is repeatedly incorrect was proven when a study showed 7 out of 12 (i.e 60%) of intentionally infected monkeys tested negative to a chronic Lyme infection, due to the spirochetes themselves changing forms and thus escaping detection. Despite Lyme testing being greatly flawed, the CDC does recognize that 300,000 infections occur ever year, and that is not even including those without an official diagnosis. That being said, because Lyme testing must be approved by the FDA, most insurances and doctors do not venture away from these confirmed, and thus funded tests. This is a serious problem, as non-FDA approved testing must be payed for out-of-pocket, an option typically not available for patients. Therefore, while the testing itself may be incredibly flawed, doctors who are in “the system,” are taken care of, while their patients, not so much. Single tests, such as an ALS culture or IGenex, do not market to other labs, and thus go through rigorous validation processes established by the CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) and CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments) that are required by federal law. Yet while ALS and IGenex testing both comply to all of the federal rules and regulations created by the CLIA and CMS, the CDC continues to target the use of these tests, despite the fact that they have a increased sensitivity to detecting Lyme. This means that unlike the recommended “two-tiered” testing that is incredibly high in false-negatives (meaning the test’s sensitivity to Lyme is very low), these tests have a higher rate of finding the infection. However, these tests are not readily available at one’s primary care office, causing patients to almost always come back negative for Lyme, in which their doctors then opt for an alternative diagnosis, typically around the lines of “Chronic Fatigue Syndrome,” “IBS,” “depression,” an “eating disorder,” “Rheumatoid arthritis,” “Lupus,” and many other diseases deemed incurable. In the end, finding Lyme is easily one of hardest diseases, despite how extensive a test may be, due to the illness itself suppressing the immune system of creating active antibodies that a given test is looking for. Spirochetes that entire through the bloodstream also tend to hide safely in one’s spinal fluid, lymph nodes, and (or) cerebral cortex that covers the brain, all while altering its own protein shape and (or) forming into undetectable cysts. This ultimately tricks the body into stoping its attempt of fighting the infection, while also halting any antibody production needed to produce a “positive” test. Overall, “The proper diagnosis of Lyme disease is based on clinical judgment, not laboratory tests. If you think Lyme may be making you sick, don’t accept a negative test as proof that Lyme must not be your problem.”

Lyme Poli”tics”

Lyme is one of the most politically driven infectious diseases to date. This not only hinders patients from finding doctors who support them, but makes diagnosing and treatment practically unheard of in the realm of conventional medicine. Yet most do not understand why this is, and typically choose to ignore the entire subject until they too are infected with the life-changing illness. Despite those who claim otherwise, Lyme is thought to have originated as a bio-weapon for the U.S Military that was accidentally leaked from the Plum Island Animal Disease Center. Though seen as a mere coincidence to some, this facility, which also has a “tick research lab,” just so happens to be 10 miles from the place where Lyme was first documented to occur in 1975, at Old Lyme, CT. Backing up even further into history after World War II, Plum Island hired a shady, Nazi-associated man that previously worked directly under Hitler, known as Erich Traub. He escaped to the U.S. through the exfiltration of 2,000 Nazis out of Germany, where he previously had served as an industry director for top biological weapons, with the expertise of infected ticks and mosquitoes with biological germs. Known as “Operation Paperclip,” this project was conducted and created by the JIOA (Joint Intelligence Objectives Agency) to “deny German scientific expertise and knowledge to the Soviet Union and the United Kingdom, as well as inhibiting post-war Germany from redeveloping its military research capabilities.” Once these men have wiped off their past Nazism, the U.S government granted the scientists security clearances to work throughout the country. Ultimately, the Paperclip project was America’s way of changing the identity of German, post-Nazi scientists so that they could use them for their incredible knowledge. Despite Homeland Security now claiming there to be nothing suspicious happening in the government research center where Eric was previously stationed, and that “not in our 50 years of operation has an animal pathogen escaped from the island,” many (including myself), beg to differ. It is also important to note that John Loftus, a former Justice Department prosecutor, wrote in his book “The Belarus Secret,” that in the 1950s, there was work being done on Plum Island where Nazi scientists were “experimenting on diseased ticks.” This time frame aligns perfectly with when Dr. Traub would have been stationed there, as well as the three USDA documents found from the vault of the National archives, labeled “Tick Research,” and, “E. Traub.” Therefore, while governmental claims may range from there being “no such thing as Lyme Disease,” to admit there is, yet with “no cure,” the near documented evidence, and thousands of those infected yearly, serve as definite proof otherwise. It is also key to note that other proven diseases, such as the West Nile Virus, bird flu, swine flu, and food-and-mouth disease, have also escaped from Plum Island. That being said, you do not have to know the exact origination of a tsunami to know that it is real. No, it just happens, and the devastating aftermath is inevitable and undeniable, much like that of Lyme Disease.

The Great Imitator

As Dr. Leo Galland says in his “10 Things You Need to Know About Lyme,” much like syphilis, this GMO hybrid bacteria can give you a wide range of symptoms that involve many different organs, “including the skin, nervous system, joints, muscles, heart and eyes.” He says that in his practice, “Lyme serves as the trigger for half of his patients with chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia, most patients with painful neuropathies or autonomic nervous system disorders, 40% of people with dizziness and 30% of patients with arthritis or autoimmune disorders,” and even those misdiagnosed with Chron’s disease or MS. It also changes one’s personality, thinking, memory, and overall mood, leading doctor’s to simply put patients on antidepressants such as cymbalta, in some cases this may work due to the triggering of fibromyalgia as cymbalta works well as an antidepressant and to treat fibromyalgia. In reality, Lyme creates serious neurological damage when gone untreated, as it wrecks havoc on both the central and peripheral nervous systems. This condition is termed “neuroborreliosis,” a name after the Borrelia Burgdorferi spirochete itself. Symptoms include facial palsy and weakness, neck and headaches, double vision, sensory disturbances, dizziness and vertigo, excessive sensitivity to noise or light, shoulder droop, debilitating fatigue, GI motility disorders, urinary tract problems, and even spinal cord paralyzation. Speaking of urinary tract infection, it is not only humans who can be affected by this. This can be found in dogs too and can be just as painful and dangerous if not treated. With this being said, it could be as simple as doing a quick google search into finding a Dog UTI Treatment to help get rid of this condition and get the dog feeling comfortable again.

Lyme can also cause various psychiatric related symptoms of hallucinations, panic attacks, sleep disorders, ADD/ADHD, autism, and dementia, which of patients are typically labeled by conventional doctors as having a “somatoform disorder.” How does this happen all through one small tick bite? As the spirochete, Borrelia Burgdoferi enters through the bloodstream into one’s body, it creates inflammatory mediators in the CNS (central nervous system), as well as the death of glial cells and specific neurons, both leading to neurocognitive deficits. The degree of destruction (encephalopathies) that can occur even after just a few months of an initial infection, is quite astounding. Damage to the white matter (i.e myelin) material in the brain that surrounds various nerves (multifocal encephalitis), lesions, bleeding (subarachnoid hemorrhage), and overall destruction of nervous system neurons, producing incredibly life altering conditions. As mentioned before, spirochetes like to target and live in one’s spinal fluid, which then creates an inflammatory condition similar to that of a spinal cord damage, where sensory alterations, autonomic dysfunction, and full body weakness occur (transverse myelitis). IL-1 (Interleukin-1 beta) IL-6 (Interleukin-6), TNF (tumor necrosis factor), and interferon gamma, are just a few of the various cytokine and chemokine immune mediators that are provoked by B. Burgdoferi, and thus cause one’s body to attack its own CNS. While there are many severe, neurological factors that cane be caused by Lyme Disease, it has been shown that long term exposure can also cause what is known as a “chronic autoimmune disease,” regardless of if the infection is still present or not. By expressing vast diversity of lipoproteins on its outer surface, the spirochete is able to avoid the immune system’s attacks, and thus continue its destruction to the mitochondria of one’s cells. As previously mentioned, Borrelia spirochetes also have immunomodulatory-immunosuppressive features, causing the immune system to simply give up on fighting the infection. Beyond the most severe complications that can stem from untreated Lyme, hormone deficits, dysbiosis, co-infections, and impaired detox mechanisms, are all more minor, yet incredibly detrimental side effects of being infected by a Borrelia spirochete. Ultimately, the conditions caused by Lyme that I have discussed are only the tip of a vast, unknown ice berg. They are seemingly endless, unstoppable, typically invisible on the outside, and thus ignored, causing Lyme to be compared to the crisis of AIDS.

Get Smart – Your Dr. Isn’t a god

Most people view Lyme like a seasonal cold or flu, that starts through a tick bite, turns into a bullseye rash, makes them feel bad for a couple weeks, after which they take a round of doxycycline, and then go on their merry way. However, this is one of the most faulty definitions yet to describe Lyme Disease. Spirochetes don’t like antibiotics, and in fact, are smart enough to avoid them through creating biofilms. They also know where it is in your body that they can hide safe (i.e between cells, lymph nodes, etc), sheltered from any medication or herb that may be looking to kill them. This causes various treatments to be ineffective, including the 30 days of doxy your primary care physician might prescribe. Once a host is infected, most spirochetes go off and hide, with little disruption to the immune system. Then, when their host is at a prime (usually weakened) state, they start working away at destroying any organ, nerve, or any other internal system they chose. This causes people to experience random, seemingly minor, and rotating symptoms such as joint pain, headaches, GI upset, fatigue (though this is quite light compared to later down the road), dizziness, colds, or depression. These symptoms will usually be ignored, especially if there was no previous rash, as doctors are too prideful to believe in such a disease, while patients too seemingly busy for slowing down and assessing their current health. This is one of the most naive things an individual can do, as not only will things become vastly more complicated as time goes on, but getting into a doctor who believes you and knows how to help, is typically a minimum of six months. This is where many victims fall short, don’t take the initiative, don’t advocate their health, and get swept under the rug of conventional medicine. For the time being, they believe it’s “all in their head,” and thus succumb to feeling generally crappy. However, as time goes on, they develop RA, MS, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Crohn’s Disease, IBS, Lupus, and (or) Fibromyalgia, all things doctors have no problem diagnosing. Yet little do people stop and actually think and learn their body, only to realize it is all due to untreated Lyme that is still hanging dormant in their body. This is where you have to be smarter than your standard doctor. They may have not learned about Lyme in their old textbook, but the information is online, and available for anyone to read. Despite a medical degree, doctors are not gods. Therefore, while some might deny Lyme, I believe no one knows the patient better than the individual themselves. It is your body, and unlike most have come to believe, life is not supposed to be a struggle as you push through seemingly “normal,” debilitating, daily symptoms. These are not normal, you are not imagining them, and they are a big deal. Sure you can go to the doctor’s office to see what they say, but don’t let them put your head in the sand and blind you from the reality of the situation. Ticks are small, but they are becoming a bigger issue by the week. Take your life into your own hands, because in 3 years, or even 3 months, it might be too late. It is time for Lyme patients to take a stand once and for all.

Beyond the Infection

It is important to note that fighting the initial infection of Lyme is a whole separate battle than healing from the effects that it causes. Therefore, while one may see finding a Lyme literate doctor to be unnecessary at the moment, it can aid tremendously in actually getting one’s life back, as these doctors understand that there is much more to a tick bite than “Lyme Disease.” Once the infection is taken care of, then it is time for nerve, cell, and overall body healing. However, getting to this stage and staying there, without a relapse into a co-infection, or “flare up” of spirochetes that had previously escaped detection, is very difficult. Therefore, to address every aspect of untreated Lyme, a team of doctors, all with differing specialties and takes on the human body, is inevitably needed. For me, this includes a neurologist, integrative medicine doctor, functional medicine doctors, an endocrinologist, immunologist, allergist, as well as various naturopaths, surgeons, and many other specialists that I cannot even start to name. Yet with all of these doctors, one of the most important aspects of finding true healing is one’s own intuition, research, and self-advocacy. Lyme literate doctors may understand the disease from a scientific, research standpoint, however, you know your body better than anyone else. If you are experiencing something, say something, as it might just help connect the various pieces of the puzzle that have been scattered into shambles. Below I have included some resources for further information and reading.

International Lyme & Associated Disease Society

Lyme Disease – You Can Get Better

Dr.Galland – Lyme Disease Podcast

Pill Advised – Lyme Archive

Dr. Galland – The Hidden

Epidemic LymeDisease.org

Lyme Quick Facts

Celebrities with Lyme

The PK Protocol

21, 2012 October. “Dicey Path to Lyme Disease Diagnosis.” In Case You Missed It: Dicey Path to Lyme Disease Diagnosis (n.d.): n. pag.Newhaven.edu. Mary Beth Pfeiffer, 21 Oct. 2012. Web. Dec.-Jan. 2014. .

Doyle, Patricia, PhD. “Plum Island, Lyme Disease And Operation Paperclip – A Deadly Triangle.” Plum Island, Lyme Disease And Operation Paperclip – A Deadly Triangle. Patricia Doyle, n.d. Web. 17 Dec. 2014. .






1 Peter 5:6 “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, and He may lift you up in due time.”

Hidden Liver Mediterranean Turkey Burgers (AIP)

As mentioned previously in “The Not-so-New Superfood” post, eating animals nose to tail is not only the most sustainable way to live, but also the most cost effective when it comes to getting the most “bang for your buck.”   One ounce of chicken liver is rich in vitamin B12, folate, iron, and is 75% of one’s vitamin A requirements, proving to be the of most nutrient dense, cheap, and readily available super foods anyone can afford in their diet.  That being said, not everyone can tolerate eating straight up sauteed liver and onions, or if you are like myself, cannot hide the strong flavor with other ingredients that are incoherently high FODMAP.  Therefore, mixing it with ground meat, like these turkey burgers, is my favorite way to incorporate the extra organ meat into my daily meals, while it also can serve as the starting point to introducing organ meat in general.

 

Turkey burgers are a great alternative to regular, red meat burgers.  Not because they are lower in fat, but rather they add a different taste and texture to what our taste buds perceive as a “burger.” That being said, it is no secret that turkey meat is prone to getting dry.  Therefore, I decided to not only add flavor, but also moisture, by mixing in hidden liver.  By hidden I mean there is no “iron” liver taste detectable, but instead, a wonderful flavor that no one but yourself will know is the loathed organ meat that people think they hate.  In fact, this recipe was first created without the use of liver.  However, after I added liver to my own burger prior to grilling, my mother exclaimed she wanted liver in hers as well!  The result? Moist, tender, and juicy turkey burger.  Who ever heard of such a thing? Not only that, but adding the liver boosted the nutritional content by a ten fold.

 

All in all, these burgers were a hit with everyone in my family, including both of my brothers, who never guessed that they were eating chicken liver.  Instead, the feedback I received was only positive, as everyone complimented on how tasty the overall burger was.  However, the real deciding factor behind sharing these burgers with you all, is the fact that my mother was excited to eat them.  She is not a big fan of olives or artichokes, thus making her skeptical at first, however, once I told her I could make them with liver mixed in, she was sold.  Sounds backwards right?  Well it worked, and she loved every bite, ensuring that these Spain and Southern Italian-infused burgers to pass even the pickiest of eaters at your lunch, dinner, or even breakfast table.   

Hidden Liver Mediterranean Turkey Burgers

Print Recipe

(Serves 5-6)
Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1/2 lb chicken liver
  • 1/4 cup parsley – chopped
  • 1/4 cup black olives – pitted
  • 1/4 cup marinated artichoke hearts (jarred or canned in water)
  • 1 small onion
  • 1/2 lemon – juiced
  • 1 tsp sea salt

Process

  • In a food processor fitted with the “S” blade, puree liver into small bits, similar to that of the ground turkey.
  • Transfer liver to a mixing bowl.
  • Chop parsley, black olives, and artichoke hearts and add to mixing bowl, along with the ground turkey and lemon juice.
  • Using a hand grater, grate the onion directly into the mixing bowl. *This allows no juices and flavor to be lost on the cutting board.
  • Mix all ingredients together, forming into 4-6 like size patties.
  • Heat grill on high, or indoor griddle of medium-low.
  • Once hot, grill burgers 6-7 minutes per side, until cooked through.
  • Serve with extra lemon wedges and enjoy!

Recipe Notes 

If you do not have a outdoor grill, pan frying the burgers on a large skillet or indoor griddle for the same time noted above, works great.

You can also bake the burgers in a 350 degree oven for 20-30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.

 

 

 
 
 
 
 

Micah 6:8 “He has shown you, o man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?”

Paleo Sweet Potato Flour Christmas Linzer Tart (AIP Friendly)

 
 Despite the many versions of Linzer cookies, pies, and tarts in today’s world, this confection was originally created in Linz, Austria, in the form of a torte, which means “cake” in German.  As one of the oldest known cakes in history, it is said that some of the earliest recipe printings date all the way back to 1696, while the exact inventor remains unknown.  The original recipe always uses ground almonds to create the famous, shortbread crust, while a stick of butter is also kneaded into the dough by hand. Fillings typically include whipped cream, jam, and (or) butter cream, and are can even be found all together in cakes with several, thin layers. How one decides to build a Linzer dessert is ultimately up to their creativity, however, all varieties will always refer back to the famous, Austrian pastry known worldwide.  Today’s recipe, which utilizes my homemade raspberry jam (previously posted here), is my “torte” version that I created into a “tart” (i.e a pastry without covered topping).   Despite traditional recipes including almonds into the shortbread crust, I chose to stick with the Autoimmune Paleo pie crust recipe that works wonderfully in my spiced pumpkin pie, as well as my rustic pear galette. Instead of a struggling with a lattice topping, I decided to be creative and cut different sized circles with various household items (a supplement shot glass, cookie cutter, and small medicine ramekin).  This artistic twist not only looks “cool,” but also allows one to have fun and tap into their imaginative side of baking.  Of course, if you are short on time, simply sprinkling the tart with powdered sugar, or my trusty alternative, maple sugar, makes a tart just as pretty to look at, without taking away from the delicious taste.  Regardless of what you decide, my Linzer tart is sure to be a hit in your home this Christmas season.  

Raspberry Linzer Tart
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Crust Ingredients

Filling Ingredients

Topping Ingredients

Process
  • Before anything else, puree 1 green plantain until smooth, transferring to a dish for later use.
  • Back in the food processor, pulse together sweet potato flour, pureed plantain, maple sugar, sea salt, cinnamon, and arrowroot flour until crumbly.
  • Pulse in cold lard 1-2 tbsp at a time, then the ice water, until a ball of dough has formed.
  • Scoop dough into plastic wrap, pressing down to about 1/2 inch thick disk, and refrigerating for 1 hour.
  • Back in the food processor, combine topping ingredients together, running until a sticky dough has formed.
  • Place topping dough in plastic wrap, pressing down to 1/2 inch thick disk, and refrigerating for 1 hour 
  • Once chilled, place crust dough on a piece of parchment paper dusted with arrowroot flour.
  • Dust rolling pin with more flour and roll the crust out until 1/4 inch thick, about 12 inches in diameter. *Or the size of your tart pan
  • Place a greased tart pan upside over dough, put your hand underneath the parchment paper, and flip over. 
  • Press crust into pan, poking holes into the bottom with a fork.
  • Place tart on a baking sheet and spread raspberry jam evenly over it.
  • Remove topping dough from the fridge, rolling out to 1/8th inch thick on a piece of parchment paper dusted with arrowroot flour. 
  • Cut into desired shapes, and place on top of the tart filling. *I used a variety of different sized circles
 
  • Place the tart back in the fridge to chill for half an hour. 
  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  • Once the crust is chilled, take it out of the fridge and place in a preheated oven to bake for 40-45 minutes, until sides and topping are golden brown.
  • Allow tart to cool, sprinkle with more maple sugar if desired, and enjoy!
 
 
 
 
 
 
Proverbs 2:6 “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth comes knowledge and understanding.”

Spatchcock Herb Roasted Chicken & Vegetables (AIP)

 
There is no greater comfort food for me than roasted chicken.  Though for others it may be mac and cheese, pizza, or a big bowl of hearty soup, there is just something about a succulent roast chicken with crispy skin that gets me every time.  This may have something to do with the fact that my mother has been preparing roast chicken since I was young.  It was always the go-to meal before sending my brothers and I off to youth group on Wednesday nights, that always left us happy and satisfied.  Another “comfort food” of mine is roasted root vegetables.  With 10x the amount of flavor than regular, white potatoes, roasting a medley of squash, carrot, and onion, is the perfect compliment to a juicy chicken leg.  Out of all of the winter squashes, kabocha has to be one of my favorites (that and delicata).  Despite looking more like a green pumpkin than an edible vegetable, this Japanese squash has a sweet, nutty flavor slightly like sweet potato.  One reason that I love this squash is, much like delicata, you can keep the skin on while roasting.  This means, not only is prep time saved, but the hassle of peeling a seemingly impossible object the size of your head, is completely eliminated. Packed with extraordinary amounts of vitamin A, as well C, D, and iron, kabocha squash is also half the amount of carbs as butternut squash, perfect for those following a ketogenic approach to Paleo-Primal. 
 
 
While a spatchcocked chicken may not exactly look all that pretty, the fact that preparing the bird in such a way cuts the cooking time in half, is completely worth the odd appearance.  By stuffing the chicken’s skin with lemon slices before cooking, the meat become infused with flavors and extra moisture.  Not only that, but by cooking the bird on a rack over the vegetables, savory drippings spread throughout the entire dish, making for a perfect sauce.  Of course, if your chicken is smaller and (or) bigger than 3-4 pounds, simply adjust the cooking time accordingly.  All in all, this dish was a big crowd pleasure, as I served it to a table full of extra friend and family members that were spending the night.  Please enjoy! 
 
 

Spatchcock Roast Chicken & Vegetables 
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Ingredients
(Serves 5-6)

  • 1, 3-4 lb roaster chicken
  • 2 lb kabocha squash (about 4 cups)
  • 2 medium sized onions (about 1 1/2 cups)
  • 1 cup carrots – cut into chunks
  • 1 medium sized lemon
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme 
  • 2 tsp ground sage
  • 2 tbsp sea salt
  • 3 tbsp avocado oil + more for brushing

Vegetables

  • Using a sharp cutting knife, slice the squash in half on either side of the stem.
  • Cut the larger half in two, making three large chunks of squash.
  • With a spoon, remove seeds and inner flesh of the squash.
  • Cut each third in half, and then into smaller, like sized chunks, placing in a large roasting pan.
  • Next, peel and cut onion carrots into chunks, tossing in with the squash. 
  • Coat the vegetables with 3 tbsp of oil, sprinkle with 1 tbsp of sea salt, and set aside while preparing the chicken.

Chicken

  • To save on clean up time, line your cutting board with plastic wrap and paper towels.
  • Rinse chicken under cool water, removing any innards, and patting dry with a paper towel.
  • Place your chicken on a prepared cutting board breast side down.
  • Using a sharp carving knife or pair of kitchen sheers, cut straight across against the backbone, starting on the thigh end.
  • Turn chicken around do the same, cutting along the back bone until full detached from the bird.
  • Remove the backbone completely and reserve for later stocks or bone broth. 
  • Flip the chicken over, pressing down to flatten.
  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
  • Place spatchcocked chicken on a roasting rack that fits into or over your roasting pan.
  • Zest lemon and then cut it into 8 thin slices.
  • Stretching the skin away from the chicken, place 4 slices of lemon on each side of the chicken.
  • Brush a few tbsp of oil over chicken and sprinkle evening with 1 tsp sea salt.
  • In a small bowl, combine sage, chopped fresh thyme, remaining 2 tsp of salt, and zest of one lemon.
  • Rub the herb mixture evenly over the chicken. 
  • Place chicken in preheated oven and bake 1 hour, until the internal temperature reaches 165.
  • Cut into desired portions, serve with roasted vegetables, and enjoy!

Psalm 62:8 “Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.”