Bitters, Choline, Gallbladder Function

Supplements you can take to stimulate the release of bile include Angostura Bitters (you can get this at the liquor store because it is an ingredient of bar drinks) and Choline. I like choline because it makes the bile more liquefied so that it passes easier through the bile duct (which is really small and can get irritated and blocked thus causing gall bladder “attacks.”) It also helps with brain function and helps prevent “brain fog.” Choline bitartrate, choline inositol are both good, but I use Standard Process brand of choline.

Sulfites in Foods

Sulfites in foods: Many consumers of the standard American diet experience severe allergy symptoms, including headaches, asthma, hives, post nasal drip, racing heart, high blood pressure, and even seizures from sulfites.

Sugar Substitutes-Stevia

I think Stevia is a good herb. I actually bought a Stevia plant from a local nursery here in Zone 5 for my herb patch. It’s an annual plant and grows quite well. You harvest the leaves just as the flowers bloom, dry them, and then use them in teas, or crumble them up and use them in cooking. I don’t know yet how to use it in baking, but when you can’t have sugar. . .you probably shouldn’t be eating baked goods anyway!

Sugar Substitutes-Licorice Root

Licorice root: “Have you ever tried these?” She asked. “Well, no, I don’t have ulcers, but I do try anything I send home with cats as they won’t tolerate much and you have to be particular with what you sent home with them.” “Well, you are going to try one now.” She said assertively as she opened the bottle and whipped out one of those stinky little pills. I popped one into my mouth and chewed. “Woof!” I said, as I made a dash to the sink to wash my mouth out. “I had NO idea!”

Sugar and Copper Deficiency

Sugar Cravings and Copper Deficiency: Natural food sources are much safer than pill forms of copper. Foods high in copper include: Parsley, blackstrap molasses, carrots, green leafy vegetables, mushrooms, nuts, seafood, most grains/legumes, liver, potatoes, raisins, beets and sunflower oil. Note: Copper levels are also reduced if large amounts of zinc, iron, or Vitamin C are consumed as well.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and Seeds: Sesame seeds are wonderful for alleviating Seasonal Affective Disorder. I use lots of sesame seeds in my granola recipe and on sautéed or steamed vegetables. Again. . .about two tablespoons per day, especially during the winter months will alleviate those winter blues. You can also eat tahini or halvah at half the dose and get the same results. Many a client has thanked me profusely for this particular tip. Remember to eat nuts as fresh as possible–about four tablespoons/day.