Here are my very long and overwhelming tips. Just do what you can. :grouphug: Have your blood pressure checked at least once a year. If it’s greater than 120/80, check it more often – check it 3 separate times at the same time of day. Normal: Below 120/80 Pre-Hypertension: 120/80 to 139/89 Hypertension: 140/90 Although high blood pressure often shows no signs, the usual symptoms are: • headaches • dizziness • noises or ringing in the ears • hemorrhages in the eyes • sweating • rapid pulse • shortness of breath • vision disturbances • heavy snoring High blood pressure and diabetes are related. The two often appear together, especially in obese patients. If you have mild hypertension or are at risk, get tested for diabetes. If your blood pressure is high and your doctor has put you on meds, you could be taking them for the rest of your life. They’re not only expensive, they can have side effects like fatigue, nausea, headaches, abdominal cramping, congestive heart failure, depression, and poor memory. Rx and OTC drugs should be reserved for situations after all else fails. Read about the methods below. Discuss them your doctor, and give them a 3-month trial. Then have your doctor monitor you and tell you how to get off your meds safely. Increase your physical activity Lose excess weight Limit salt Stop smoking for good WEIGHT LOSS Even a 5-10% weight loss can greatly help reduce blood pressure. It helps to have a positive, determined attitude (not so easy, but it really does help). A defeatist attitude won’t work. Address your emotional and physiological cravings. Use emotional answers to emotional problems. Food is only a temporary fix. Control your portions. Chew your food well. Reduce your portions and wait 15 minutes before taking seconds. Change your diet. Eat more dense foods that turn to sugar more slowly – beans, fish, and chicken. Concentrate on eating some protein (including beans and tofu) with each meal. Eat lots of vegetables. Drink water throughout the day. Exercise more

It sounds both attractive and plausible that giving your brain a "workout" could guard against dementia, and there is some evidence that very intensive brain training under strict conditions can improve specific functions like reasoning and problem solving. But there is no evidence as yet that doing a crossword a day or a number puzzle - or even learning a new language at 50 - will protect against dementia. That does mean they do not - simply that the proof that they do is presently lacking. TRY TO DO AT LEAST ONE OF THESE EVERY DAY – OR AS OFTEN AS POSSIBLE - Spend just 15 minutes a day on a new activity Riddles Sudoku Logic Puzzles Crossword Puzzles Word Jumbles Scrabble Learn a new language Buy a “Word a Day” calendar Read various styles of writing – classics to cartoons Memory – the card game (also called Concentration) Memorize Phone Numbers Play an instrument Listen to books on tape Learn new skills like knitting Pick up a sport such as ping-pong Once in a while, write with your opposite hand Open doors with your non-dominant hand Brush your teeth with non-dominant hand Comb your hair with non-dominant hand Eat with non-dominant hand Write with non-dominant hand Begin at 200 and count backward, subtracting 5 each time – 200, 195, 190 Begin at 150, count backward, subtract 7 each time – 150, 143, 136 (my 81-year-old dad does this every day while swimming in the ocean) Begin at 100, count backward, subtract 3 each time – 100, 97, 94 Do yoga and dance-like routines which involve complex movements that require thinking and focus at least twice a week. Practice balancing by walking sideways in your kitchen or stand on one leg a few times a day. GOOD BOOKS “Mind Boosters” by Ray Sahelian “The Better Brain Book” by David Perlmutter

OTHER TIPS The single most important step to improve your aging mind is to reduce your cortisol levels by lowering your stress. Chronically high cortisol levels can affect your memory. Meditate, sip black tea, take a nap – anything to reduce stress Regular exercise – People who workout for 30 minutes at least 5 times a week during middle age are much less likely to develop Alzheimer’s later in life. What is good for the heart is good for the brain. Exercise can have a beneficial effect at any age to help protect against dementia and Alzheimer’s. It does not have to be the gym - a brisk walk is a perfectly acceptable alternative. Whatever form of exercise gets your heart pumping and leaves you somewhat out of breath is doing the trick. Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and blood pressure, and so is indirectly thought to reduce the risk of dementia. There is also growing evidence that regular exercise has other health effects such as promoting cell and tissue repair mechanisms including growth of new cells in the brain. Any physical activity helps the brain grow new cells, which guards against dementia. Any unfamiliar movement can increase motor skills and brain function. Avoid becoming comfortable with your movement routine – strive to mix it up every few months. For maximum brain boost, inject novelty. Do different activities throughout the week or even within the same workout – 10 minutes of treadmill, elliptical, bicycle, etc. This prevents a mental and physical plateau. Meditation – Regular mediation strengthens the brain and improves cognition. Brain scans have recently shown that one form, Kirtan Kriya, activates one of the first areas of the brain that degenerates with Alzheimer’s. This technique has been shown to reverse memory loss and enhance brain function in people with early Alzheimer’s. Many experts consider meditation one of the most effective forms of mind/body medicine. Meditation has nothing to do with religious beliefs. Many kinds of meditation simply consist of focusing your awareness and specific breathing exercises. Using the Kirtan Kriya technique for just 12 minutes a day for 2 months has been shown to reverse memory loss in a group of people with mild cognitive impairment. It’s easy to do. You can buy an audio CD from the Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation for about $12. Football and other sports that have a high propensity for head injury. Repeated head injury increases risk for Alzheimer's. Always wear a seat belt and use a helmet whenever possible. Keep an eye on HDL Cholesterol – A drop in HDL levels has been linked to mental decline. Ideal HDL – As high as possible. Aim for at least 40. Regular, Brisk Exercise helps raise your HDL cholesterol and lower your LDL cholesterol. Numerous studies have found that higher amounts of aluminum in drinking water and food can cause impair memory. Aluminum leeches easily from cookware and is readily absorbed into your system. Use iron cookware instead of aluminum and, if you haven't done so already, it's time to begin purifying your drinking water of aluminum and other harmful elements by distilling it. The heavier and more overweight you are, the greater the risk of overall mental decline. Insulin plays a special role in learning and memory Numerous new studies suggest there’s a third kind of diabetes—what investigators are calling Type 3—that impacts cognitive function. Not only can obesity and diabetes cause neurodegeneration, but they also appear to significantly reduce brain weight, basically shrinking the brain itself. A new study at London’s National Institute for Health Research shows that poorly controlled insulin (as in diabetes) not only increases the risk for cognitive impairment and dementia—but also speeds up the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). And Chinese research finds that the higher the BMI (body mass index), the greater the impairment to the brain. Diabetics have up to 65% greater risk for Alzheimer’s than healthy individuals. Check drug side effects. Many anti-anxiety drugs, antidepressants, and incontinence drugs can cause cognitive impairment, especially in the elderly. Having consistently raised blood pressure in mid-life - anything above 140/90mmHg is thought to increase the chance of dementia by causing damage to the brain. This may happen as a result of a stroke - in which blood supply to part or all of the brain is cut off - or due to microvascular disease, a condition which slows the flow of blood through the body thereby damaging cells and nerves in the brain. If you are over 40, or have a history of dementia or cardiovascular disease in your family, then get your blood pressure checked regularly. Keep an active social life Outgoing people and those who don’t get stressed easily and are more resilient are 50% less likely to develop dementia.

EAT LESS Red meat - especially if it is produced by industrial farming techniques and if it does not carry an “omega-3” label Dairy products Eggs not marked “omega-3” Sunflower oil Corn oil Safflower oil Soybean oil Cut back on sugar – High-sugar diets may promote the formation of plaque and tangles in brain tissue that are the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s and overall mental decline. SUPPLEMENTS DHA is the most important supplement. This is an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish and algae. Those who took 900 mg per day of algal DHA for 6 months made significantly fewer errors on memory tests than they had at the study’s onset. Interestingly, another study found that DHA has little impact once serious dementia has set in. Try to take 800 mg of DHA daily. Fish Oil has some DHA, but may not have enough. Omega-3 fatty acids like - A good fish oil – such as Carlson’s DO NOT TAKE FISH OILS IF YOU ARE ON ANY BLOOD THINNER. OR WITHIN 2 WEEKS OF ANY PLANNED SURGERY. OR IF YOUR DOCTOR ADVISES YOU NOT TO TAKE. Ginkgo biloba's antioxidant action helps to protect the brain from free radical damage that can cause "mental fog." It also has the ability to stimulate blood flow to critical regions of the brain. A good daily maintenance dosage is 10 milligrams of ginkgo that has been standardized to contain 24% of the flavonoid glycosides helps maintain brain function and cognitive performance as you age. For intensive use, take 60 mg to 120 mg per day. Vitamin D3 Memory loss may be linked to a Vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D helps normalize brain function. Its protective effects on nerve growth factors in the brain make it an ideal nutrient to use for either the prevention or treatment of mental decline. The more vitamin D, the better the memory. If you're under 60, take 2,000 IU per day. If you're 60 or over, take 5,000 IU per day of vitamin D3. Iron is a double-edged mineral for women. Studies indicate that iron can help improve short-term memory loss and concentration. If you aren't using iron cookware regularly, you may wish to take 10 to 15 milligrams of elemental iron a day. Menstruating women lose iron-rich blood every month, plus pregnancy, nursing, and strenuous physical exercise dramatically increase the need for this mineral. But later in life, excess iron, which accumulates in the body after menopause, may increase women’s risk for cancer and heart disease. If you’re over 50 or have experienced early or surgically induced menopause, see your doctor for a hematocrit, hemoglobin, and/or ferritin test to determine if you need iron. The ferritin test, which assesses stored iron, is most important here. If your levels approach anywhere from 150 to 200 ng/mL on the ferritin test, do avoid extra iron in supplements, iron-enriched grains, and cut down on red meat. You might want to consider an iron-free multivitamin Phosphatidyl serine, also known as PS, is a naturally occurring fat that is found in cell membranes. It’s one of the most plentiful fats in your brain tissue, and is a key building block in helping your cells communicate with one another. It also stimulates the production of brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. As we age, we get less of these nutrients in our diets and our absorption is often poorer. Studies have shown that PS stimulates the memory in people with age-related memory loss. It also relieves age-related depression. When a group of people took 300 mg of PS a day for 3 months, they reported an improvement in mental clarity and the ability to remember names, faces, and phone numbers. Some doctors recommend beginning with 300 mg until you notice improved clarity and recall (100 mg at breakfast and 200 mg at dinner). Then taper down to 100 mg a day for maintenance. Resveratrol Those who were given 1000 mg had increased blood flow and scored higher on cognitive tests than a control group Take at least 100 mg of trans-reseveratrol daily Resveratrol is nontoxic and there is essentially no known toxic dose – in other words, it’s not easy to overdose on it But for general prevention, stick to the recommended dosage on the label There are two forms of reseveratrol available: cis- and trans-. Trans is much better absorbed than cis, which is less expensive also. Do not take while pregnant Blackberry Extract helps with motor performance and short-term memory (the two skills that are first to go in dementia patients) Niacin (Vitamin B3) is a memory-enhancer. Helps prevent memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s disease Most need at least 500 mg. At this dosage, many commonly experience flushing, which subsides within an hour. So, it’s best to avoid taking it right before leaving the house or going to sleep. These symptoms can be minimized if the niacin is taken with aspirin or a meal. In fact, flushing is a positive sign that blood vessels are dilating in response to the niacin Niacin is more effective than niacinamide. CAUTION: • Do not take more than 2000 mg daily. Very high doses can damage the liver. Again, one capsule of 500 mg per day is the usual recommendation. • Be careful if you have prediabetes or diabetes. Niacin can raise levels of blood glucose. This effect is generally mild, though, and doesn’t outweigh its heart-protecting benefits. But it’s good to consult with your doctor before taking it. • Also use caution if pregnant, have glaucoma, gout, liver disease, or peptic ulcers. JUST SOME OF THE MANY SYMPTOMS OF NIACIN DEFICIENCY Dementia Depression Dizziness Headaches Indigestion Insomnia Limb Pains Loss of Appetite Low Blood Sugar Muscular Weakness Skin that is particularly sensitive to sunlight Grapeseed Oil – can help prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s Can take up to 200 mg capsules a day Vitamin B12 is supplied primarily by animal products, since plant foods (with minor exceptions) don’t contain it. Improves concentration, memory, and balance Too little of this vitamin raises homocysteine levels in the brain, which dramatically increases your risk for Alzheimer’s The sublingual or time-release form is the best absorbed Doses of 500-1000 mcg may be needed to protect against heart disease. Too little B12 can lead to mental fogginess, mood imbalances, and memory lapses. Long-term consequences can include anemia, nerve damage, and even dementia. Vitamin B1 (thiamin) has been shown to help strengthen memory and cognitive function. College students were given 50 mg of B1 a day for 2 months. Their mood and mental acuity improved. Multivitamins contain from 5-100 mg of B1. You may need to take more depending on your multivitamin. Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC) – This amino acid can boost brainpower and memory. ALC is a very powerful brain nutrient. The only food source for this amino acid is animal brains Studies have shown that ALC delays the progression of Alzheimer’s In animal studies, it even prevented animals from developing Parkinson’s Your brain makes ALC, but it’s often not enough as you age. Take 100 to 1500 mg every day – if taking 500 mg or more, take it in divided doses

INFLAMMATION Dementia and Alzheimer’s are both conditions linked to inflammation in the body. Your goal should be to have an anti-inflammatory diet. Those who regularly consume Omega-3s lower their risk for developing dementia by 60 percent. These oils act as anti-inflammatories and improve blood flow to the body and brain. EAT MORE Walnuts Chia Seeds Fatty Fish like wild salmon, tuna, sardines are loaded with DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid that boosts the brain’s Alzheimer’s defenses. Those who eat the most fish and have the highest levels of omega-3 fatty acid DHA in their blood cut risk of dementia by up to 47%. One of the best ways to prevent dementia is to eat more fish. According to a study of almost 15,000 people ages 65 and older in seven countries, those who consumed fish of any variety at least a few days a week were 19% less likely to have dementia than those who ate none at all. Colorful fruits and veggies daily Eat from each of the 5 color groups – red, orange, yellow, white, blue/purple, and green Leafy greens Cruciferous veggies – broccoli, cauliflower Those who eat the most of these can lower their brain age by up to 2 years. Avocados, olive oil, nuts, and sunflower seeds are high in vitamin E, which is especially effective at preventing Alzheimer’s by up to 67%. Shoot for 15 mg a day, equal to 2 ounces of almonds. Blackcurrants contain chemicals that prevent Alzheimer’s by protecting cells in the brain responsible for learning and memory Rosemary improves memory. Try to get 1-2 teaspoons a day. Make a rosemary-infused simple syrup by mixing 1 cup water, ½ cup sugar (or better yet, a healthier alternative), and 2 sprigs rosemary. Bring to a boil so sugar dissolves, and let sit for 10-15 minutes. Drizzle over fruit salad. Use 1 cup syrup to 4 cups fruit. Turmeric may reduce the buildup of beta-amyloid proteins in the brain, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. Most brain researchers and Alzheimer’s specialists believe that preventing or reducing beta amyloid plaque in the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease is important. Beta amyloid plaque interferes with proper brain function and contributes to dementia. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory Used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years, turmeric may help explain why India has one of the world’s lowest rates of mental decline. India consumes the bulk of the turmeric produced in the world. They have one-third the rate of Alzheimer's than does the United States (which affects half of Americans over 85) Turmeric needs to be mixed with black pepper and olive oil in order to be effective All of us should regularly consume a soupspoon of turmeric every day, with a pinch of pepper and olive oil. You can use it in your cooking In supplement form, take 4 grams of turmeric daily. Because powdered turmeric is a powerful blood-cleansing herb, don’t overdo it. CAUTION: Some brands of turmeric powder and supplements have been found to be contaminated with heavy metals themselves. Make sure to obtain a high quality brand. Grapeseed Oil – can help prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s Use it in cooking Blueberries contain compounds that make it easier for your brain to send signals to the pathways that control both short- and long-term memory. Foods rich in Folic Acid – may help prevent Alzheimer’s and memory loss Some women find that higher doses act as a natural estrogen replacement. Like B6, folic acid helps protect against homocysteine, a protein linked to heart disease and memory loss. Folate can boost memory in as little as 5 weeks Take 750 mg daily – that’s about 1 cup of cooked spinach and 1 cup of cooked lentils Luteolin found in celery and green pepper reduces brain inflammation, a factor in Alzheimer’s and dementia Apples – Snacking on apples can heighten on-the-spot recall of words, names, and facts. The fruit’s polyphenols reduce oxidative stress on the brain, thereby revving output of the memory-enhancing neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Onions, Tea, and dark chocolate are also brain boosters Red Cabbage – The phytochemicals in red cabbage blocks the brain neuron-destroying effect of amyloid protein deposits, the plaque that causes Alzheimer’s. Dark-colored fruits – berries and grapes – are helpful Foods rich in choline improve memory Found in eggs, fish, collard greens, beans, liver, kidneys, fish, lentils, spinach, cabbage, lettuce, leafy greens, wheat germ, whole wheat bread, whole grain cereals One large egg yolk has 27% of your daily choline need. Vitamin B1 (thiamin) has been shown to help strengthen memory and cognitive function. Navy beans are a very good source. Also found in whole grains, brewer’s yeast, molasses, and meats Phosphatidyl serine, also known as PS, is a naturally occurring fat that is found in cell membranes. It’s one of the most plentiful fats in your brain tissue, and is a key building block in helping your cells communicate with one another. It also stimulates the production of brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. PS is found in organ meats and fish. Your body can make enough PS if it has enough folic acid, vitamin B12, and other essential fats. But as we age, we get less of these nutrients in our diets and our absorption is often poorer. Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC) – This amino acid can boost brainpower and memory. ALC is a very powerful brain nutrient. The only food source for this amino acid is animal brains Studies have shown that ALC delays the progression of Alzheimer’s In animal studies, it even prevented animals from developing Parkinson’s Your brain makes ALC, but it’s often not enough as you age. Keep an eye on HDL Cholesterol – A drop in HDL levels has been linked to mental decline. Ideal HDL – As high as possible. Aim for at least 40. Large handful (2.5 ounces or about 50 nuts) a day Reach for almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, pistachios, macadamia nuts, and walnuts. These are packed with monounsaturated fatty acids that raise HDL while lowering LDL. Pecans are high in the antioxidants that help fight Alzheimer’s and other neurological problems, including Parkinson’s. Pecans are one of the top 15 foods highest in antioxidants. Researchers suggest that adding a handful of pecans every day could delay the progression of Alzheimer’s and other age-related motor neuron degeneration. They contain more than 19 vitamins and minerals. And, of course, they’re cholesterol-free. Mediterranean Diet Several recent studies have highlighted the potential for this diet to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's. It involves eating lots of fruit and vegetables, whole grain foods, fish and plenty of olive oil, but it is relatively low in dairy products and processed foods. Further long term research is needed to confirm the effects of eating this way. A Mediterranean diet, high in fruit and vegetable content is a good heart diet, which means a good brain diet also. Aim for seven to eight servings daily of fatty fish, dark green, yellow and orange vegetables and fruits as well spices like ginger and curcumin. Sage Tea Sage has long been thought of in traditional herbal medicine as a brain booster Improves memory

As always, Christina and Peela are a wealth of fabulous info. :D :grouphug: Denise, here are my tips. Overwhelming, just do what you can and what feels right for you. As Christina mentions, you can find other sources of omega-3s, doesn't have to be fish oil. There are measures we can take now to protect our brain health, and it is never too early to start. We all may forget where we parked the car, but to come out and not know whether you drove or took the bus, that’s different. Forgetting where you put your glasses doesn’t mean you have Alzheimer’s, but not realizing that you wear glasses does! • Do you ask the same question again and again? • Do you put things in unusual places, like stashing frozen food in the fridge or the cupboard? • Do you forget everyday things—like not brushing your teeth? • Do you struggle to come up with the words you want to say? If it’s worrying you and if other people are commenting on it, then it may be time to make some changes and possibly check with a doctor. If you have Memory Lapses, ask yourself if others seem puzzled by your behavior. If not, it may be a reduced sensitivity to insulin. When insulin fails to shuttle an adequate supply to the brain, the result can be forgetfulness and cognitive impairment. On the other hand, studies show that the early stages of Alzheimer’s usually go undetected by sufferers – it’s friends and loved ones who notice the first signs. So if you’re frustrated by your own memory problems, chances are you’re fine. A diminishment of memory and mental clarity does not have to be an inevitable consequence of aging. Nutritional supplementation, reducing the amount of aluminum you ingest, and exercise all can help improve healthy mental function. The BBC convened a panel of independent experts, chaired by the Alzheimer's Society, which evaluated more than 70 research papers and articles to come up with a series of tips for reducing your risk. It may sound young, but the age of 35, they suggest, is high time to start thinking about these recommendations. If more of us acted on these, thousands of cases of dementia could be prevented in the future. RISK FACTORS Women are more likely to develop mental decline — and not just because they outlive men. Recent studies suggest that estrogen contributes to this disease. Cardiovascular disease Concussion or brain injury Diabetes Environmental toxins Gene mutations High blood pressure Infections Mental or neurological problems Thyroid dysfunction Substance abuse Major surgery Being overweight or obese - especially with added weight around the hips Fortunately, you can lessen these risk factors.

Thank you all for these great tips. We found a place and think it should be lovely. So excited. :D

I'm generally low-maintenance. I never wear make up (although I used to wear LOTS ;)). 1. I love exfoliation and like the MK Time Wise Microdermabrasion Kit. I'm usually more of a Paula's Choice type, but now and again, I like to switch things around. 2. I don't like dark shadows under my eyes and having a shiny forehead. Given that I don't like to wear make up, particularly obvious make up, does MK have any products that would help in these 2 areas - a concealer or skin brightener or whatever to help hide the dark shadows? Blotting Paper that actually works for the shiny forehead? Is there any kind of mineral-ish make up that doesn't show. I have huge issues with foundation and finding the right shade. Concealer also. Is there any kind of product that hides dark shadows effectively and discreetly? 3. Any other absolutely amazing things that are low-maintenance for me? :) 4. Ds, in particular, but both dc, do tend to break out. Ds is not one to go for an entire acne line. Would the MK Acne Gel work in and of itself? 5. These questions are mostly with regards to travel and our upcoming trip. I do not want to be traveling with too much stuff. Again, low-maintenance, if at all, is more my style. Thank you! :)

Thank you. Bourton looks lovely. Gosh, they all do. Decisions, decisions ... :D I mean it's only for 1 night, but still, since these areas are not exactly cheap and since we're only there for 1 night, I would love a really nice English-y place. I would like to finalize our decision today. Does anyone know how far Broadway is to Chipping Camden? We're considering a place in Broadway.

Some of these may have already been mentioned. Sorry, I'm in a bit of a hurry. we've loved, loved, loved these true stories - they're a series Other animal books that we've really loved - if you search any of these on amazon, you'll come up with other great recommendations, which I'm sure you already know . James Herriott's Treasury for Children - he might be able to read them by himself. Ds has read these over and over. Molly the Pony Ones we've heard good things about: 14 Cows for America - have heard good things about it Tara and Bella How One Little Polar Bear

One of our favorite boxed sets and documentaries is this series. Our dc are still too young for much of these.

You're very wise and have done your research. :)

Stacia, I plan on reading more of her books later. Read the first two so far and I like them. :) I started a book last week. One of those supermarket paperback type mysteries. I gave it more than 10%, got bored, and then gave up. My 10% rule. :D Just started and so far I like, Faceless Killers.

Thanks so much. :)

or have a U.K. Rick Steves book on hand, perhaps? I only have his London book and really don't want to have to buy his U.K. book also ... We will be driving from London to South Wales this summer and would like to spend 1 night in the Cotswolds. Never been to the Cotswolds before and don't know much about it, other than it's so pretty. We'd like to find reasonable-priced accommodation for a family of 4. Any recommendations? If nothing specific, where should I look for as to towns/villages to stay? Stow-on-the-Wold Bibury Tetbury The Coln Valley The Slaughters Anything else? Premier Inns are good and nice, it seems - but we're not sure which ones or which location would be ideal. Although, I really would love a nice family-friendly B&B also. Just as long as it's nice and not too expensive. Thank you so much. :)

Can I just say that I love your avatar? :D :grouphug:

Hmmm ... and here I was ready to order The Omnivore's Dilemma (the kids' version). I also happened to view some sample pages on it in amazon (since there are no good bookstores here) and it did seem a bit too text-book-ish for my dc's tastes. I may just read Food Rules to them instead. But knowing my kids, they would be turned off. They have absolutely loved this book. It was quite an eye-opener for them, plus a fun way to study geography. :) I really would love to get this one. I like this approach. Teens and young adults oftentimes are resistant to us telling them these sort of things. What helps is someone from the outside. :) Peela, our dd is much like yours. Getting her to exercise is like pulling teeth.

I don't know if any of this will be relevant or helpful. Just thought to share. I hate, hate, hate cancer. It really and truly sucks. Lots (most) of these ideas are geared for women ... Care kit with things to combat nausea - Lip balm for dry lips, Lemon drops, ginger snaps, Chinese ginger candy, ginger ale, soda crackers, stuff like that Books on tape Funny movie If he is getting chemo she may find that he is easily chilled. This is especially true when chemo causes hair loss. You may want to see if you can find the fluffiest, softest hat and maybe even a snuggly throw. A freezer full of meals ready to heat and eat. Gift cards and certificates from her favorite local restaurants, those that deliver are best. Gift cards from the local pharmacy and grocery store Books and dvds if you know what is liked or gift cards for those too. Offer to do “at home” things – water plants, look after a pet, or pick up mail Lip balm is the #1 request for drying air in hospitals Calling card This blog is interesting and helpful as to what to say or not to say for someone with cancer.

Never heard of it at all. I've been researching hcg since October and this is the first time I've heard about it. But do update us when you try it. :)

Denise, no worries ever about hijacking. :grouphug: Anyway, I'm just delighted that you started this thread. :) I have lots of info on that. Not from an Ayurvedic point of view, but just my usual long list of very overwhelming tips, if you're interested. Let me know if you are and I can post them here. Off to read Peela's posts in more detail. :D Thank you, Peela. And Denise, thank you, for starting this thread. :)

I really do want to get one of these. :) This looks good. Just makes me want to start singing "Alouette" :D.

Sorry to be a bother again. I'm a bit overwhelmed with all the choices Which book/s would you recommend? Thank you so much. :)

We often order our shoes (dd and I) from footsmart.com - their site has been down for weeks. It's a shame, since I really do love ordering from them. Dd needs special shoes (pronation) and I just want comfort (but nice :)) for wide feet. They won't reply to my emails. Can anyone suggest an alternative for nice orthopedic/specialty shoes? Thank you.

Christina, thank you so much. :grouphug: Your tips are so very helpful and truly appreciated. :D Thanks for taking the time to share. You and Peela are a wealth of info. :) The link doesn't work for me either, so thanks also for copying and pasting the article. Do you mind my asking if there is a favorite site where you order your ayurvedic supplements from? I've already placed two orders from the ones that Peela so kindly suggested. Thought I'd ask you also for future reference. Plus, maybe try some Tulsi tea bags. There really aren't any health food stores here. Peela, yes, I love simple, doable and easy! :D

:lol: :lol: :lol: Dh and I are laughing our heads off. :D