Easy Way to Add Coconut Oil in Your Daily Routine

With most people I typically recommend getting 3 tablespoons of coconut oil in daily. That means internally and for some people you may think I am crazy. However coconut oil is essentially a super food for the body. Great for the immune system, thyroid, liver, digestive system, hair, and skin. It is antimicrobial and will help kill off nasty invaders that get you sick! Its perfect for rashes and skin conditions too... Anyways I'll devote many more posts to coconut oil. For now I just want to give you one way to get a tablespoon or 2 in the morning!

Most people drink something warm in the morning- whether it is tea, coffee, hot water with lemon, etc. Just simply add 1 TBS of coconut oil to what you are drinking! It will melt so you don't even know you are drinking it. The first sip is mostly coconut oil, but if you have expeller pressed you won't taste a thing.

Easy as that! It is a fantastic way to start your morning and give you a little energy boost too! It is also crucial to do when there are so many sick people... all that coughing and junk flying around. Coconut oil tremendously helps out your immune system and I have had many patients come in and swear that coconut oil is keeping them healthy even when they are around sick people. Why not give it a try?!

One tablespoon down... and 2 more to go!

 Get a nice large scoop of coconut oil!!

Coconut oil is solid up until 76 to 78 degrees

 

 



Around 76 to 78 degrees it starts to melt!

Now you won't even know it is there :)

 

 All melted!  Enjoy!



Product #2- Mineral Chi Tonic

Product #2- Mineral Chi Tonic
Even though it may sound like a weird name it has powerful effects in increasing people's energy and supports your adrenal ('stress gland' of the body) function.  Mineral Chi is something that I specifically use to boost adrenal gland function, put people on with high stress or are feeling run down, or those who just want a boost of energy!  It helps to bring balance and energy physically, mentally and emotionally.  The minerals and the herbs in the tonic are all focused on giving nourishment to your adrenal glands. 

It is a liquid (not the best tasting stuff... but worth it!) and needs to stay in the fridge.  You can 1 TBS two times a day (you can mix in water or smoothie if you would like... I just take a sip and the taste isn't so bad after you get used to it).

Here is the description by Nature Sunshine
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the human body is a vast electrical energy system consisting of 12 two-sided meridians (energy channels) with more than 800 switches or acupuncture points. Chinese medicine teaches that when the energy meridians are in balance, the body will maintain itself. Tonic herbs balance the meridians and nourish the adrenal glands—the major managers of the energy that powers the “electric” human body.

This product contains renowned Chinese tonic herbs used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Gynostemma feeds the adrenal glands. Lycii and schizandra berries balance the 12 meridians and energize the five constitutional types. Eleuthero root is an adrenal tonic that acts as an energizer. Astragalus root builds the immune system and energizes. Licorice root is an adrenal/pituitary tonic. Reishi mushroom supports the body when under stress and boosts immunity. Ginkgo builds mental energy, alertness, clarity and focus.

Product Number: 1818-3

Feb Special/Donation Site!

Bridges is a domestic violence center in Williamson County. They serve women, children and men all affected by domestic violence and ensure a safe and successful transition into independent living. They also provide immediate shelter for those in abusive relationships and/or immediate danger. It is all free of charge and completely confidential to ensure the safety of those in need. For more info click here.

Bring in 1 of the below to MTCAM and receive $10 OFF your service that day!

• Pack of Toilet Paper
• Laundry Detergent
• Clorox or Lysol (spray or wipes)
• Paper Towels (at least 2 roles)

Making Eggs? Add This!

Want one super easy way to make eggs taste better? Add a big scoop of coconut oil to the pan when you cook them! You may already know this however I know there are people out there who do not... and you are missing out! Some people may feel there is no need to add it or use some other oil instead- think again! Try expeller pressed coconut oil (does not taste like coconuts) and be impressed!! Don't be stingy about it. Throw a scoop in there and cook them :) You will taste a difference!

Homemade Crackers

A complaint/struggle people with Candida have is that they can't have chips or crackers... I have been trying to find a good homemade recipe without all the junk it in! (White flour, wheat flour, sugar, food colorings, preservatives, etc.) 

These were easy to make and you don't need any crazy ingredients.  The only problem is that they kind of crumble if you bite them in half.  But there is a simple solution... Cut into bite size pieces :)  Enjoy!!

Ingredients 

• 1 egg- whisk till frothy
• 2 TBS coconut oil- melted
• 3 Cups almond flour
• 1 1/2 Tsp sea salt
• (Her recipe called for an additional TBS of honey.  I didn't add it to make sure it tasted okay for people on Candida Clear.  For everyone else you can add in the honey to give it a sweeter taste but it was perfectly fine without.)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (or I just coated with coconut oil).
2. Mix all ingredients, except almond flour, together. 
3. Slowly add in the almond flour to form a dough.
4. Roll the dough out between two sheets of parchment paper.  It is easier if you do half of the dough at a time.  Roll to about 1/8 inch thickness. Peel the top layer of parchment paper off and cut the dough into bite sized squares.
5. Place dough squares onto prepared baking sheets.
6. Bake for 7-8 minutes, until just starting to brown. (Mine needed about 9 to 10 minutes but each oven is different.)

4 to 5 Ingredinats VERSUS... Keebler Club Cracker
ENRICHED FLOUR (WHEAT FLOUR, NIACIN, REDUCED IRON, THIAMIN MONONITRATE [VITAMIN B1], RIBOFLAVIN [VITAMIN B2], FOLIC ACID), SOYBEAN OIL WITH TBHQ FOR FRESHNESS, SUGAR, CONTAINS TWO PERCENT OR LESS OF SALT, LEAVENING (SODIUM ACID PYROPHOSPHATE, BAKING SODA, MONOCALCIUM PHOSPHATE), HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP, CORN SYRUP, CORNSTARCH, SOY LECITHIN.
**TBHQ= A preservative= Not healthy for you

I like the idea of only 4 ingredients... but that may just be me. 

The Flattened Out Dough

Next Step: Cut in bit size pieces and put on baking sheet

My Cooked Crackers!

They make for nice little turkey sandwiches :)

By the way- The Paleo Mom is a great resource center.  She has such great recipes!
http://www.thepaleomom.com/2012/01/recipe-paleo-club-crackers.html

Fried 'Rice'... 3 Ingredients! So simple!

Here is a simple and delicious recipe for you!  When I first discovered this I made it for 4 days in a row because it tasted so good!  I haven't had Chinese food since I don't know when and haven't found a healthy alternative until this!!  I think it tastes a whole lot like fried rice... enough to eat it for almost a week :)  Its perfect for anyone, especially those on Candida Clear where you can have quinoa in place of rice! 

All you need is quinoa, frozen veggies, a couple eggs... and coconut oil!

• Cook your quinoa.  I sometimes will cook it and keep it cold in the fridge.  Then when I want to make something I just quickly heat it up in the skillet with coconut oil so don't have to wait 30 minutes for it to cook.
• Make your frozen veggies.  I get mine at Costco- great price for how much you get.  They are organic too!
• Now put it all together.  In a large skillet (on low/medium heat) put 1 to 2 tablespoons of coconut oil, quinoa, mixed veggies and 1 to 2 eggs.  In a smaller skillet do 1 egg and larger skillet do 2 eggs.  (See picture below)  Once the eggs start to slightly cook mix them around with the quinoa and veggies.  Keep slowly mixing everything until the eggs are pretty well done.  There you have it!  Dinner is done! 

You could add in some sea salt or pepper if you would like.  Another option would be to throw in some chicken to make it officially chicken fried 'rice.'  This also makes for great leftovers!  Enjoy!

BEFORE

2 Eggs, Quinoa, Cooked Veggies, and Coconut Oil (Pictured on the left side)

 

 

AFTER... Delicious!

Free Talk and Process Group- Saturday Jan 18th

This Saturday (January 18th) at 10 am I will be giving around a 45 minute talk on digestion at the office.  I will go over the digestive process, different organs involved- and what they do, as well as stereotypical issues people have (acid reflux, bloating, gas, constipation, etc.) and what you can do to help!  I will be going over some of the products I use in the office as well as tips for home! 

Please email drcarolynmaxfield@gmail.com to RSVP so we know how many people to plan for. 

ALSO!!!!!! 

Immediately following we are going to have our first process group with Laura Ramey, LMFT.  She has been with us for the past year and has had an amazing journey of her own.  Both Laura and I have decided to team up to really help patients find comfort in each other’s stories (talking about both the physical and emotional side) and to learn and grow!  

This is a place to hear what other people have/are going through and learn you are not alone!  I am personally so excited about this. My hope is that this group gives everyone a chance to learn about different people’s stories (including my own) and the struggles we face and have overcome… as well as celebrate our accomplishments!!! I often find patients feel isolated in their health journey (that they have to eat differently, take supplements, trust that they don’t need to run to the doctor when their child has a cold and get antibiotics, stay away from sugars, understand and push through detox symptoms which works on you both physically and emotionally, etc.) and we are here to help! I would love to see everyone there even if you don’t want to talk or have anything to share! Just to be in a room of like minded people going through similar things is powerful and healing in itself!

From Laura- This process group will be a time for us to gather together and share our stories and personal experiences on our health journey. Because our bodies are so closely tied to the mental and spiritual aspects of our life as well, during our physical healing process some of us may have encountered other personal struggles like depression, anxiety, relationship tension, etc. One of the best healing strategies is to be in community and know you are not alone. Even though I am a licensed therapist, this time is not intended to be "therapy," rather a safe place to share your story, ask questions, and receive support from others like you on this path. You will not be required to share or do anything you don't want to do. Simply show up and be here with us if you would like! My hope for this time is to be laid-back, supportive, and informative - and to meet each of you where you are on your journey. I look forward to sharing this time with you!

We hope to see you this Saturday!  Again- please email drcarolynmaxfield@gmail.com to let us know you will be there! 

Nature Sunshine Special!

Nature Sunshine Member Appreciation Days!

January 16th and 17th ONLY

 

$20 off $100 or more

--Offer code: LIVE

 

$30 off $150 or more

--Offer code: INSPIRE

Egg Drop Soup! 2 Ingredients!

Okay so this could possibly be the easiest recipe yet... not kidding!  Just because its so simple to make does not mean it lacks in taste!  I have had this for dinner the past 2 nights! :)  I love egg drop soup at Chinese restaurants but you never know what all goes into it- especially the seasonings and flavoring (and MSG).  So in place of it try this!!  I think it tastes just like one at a restaurant I promise!
 
Ingredients
-4 Eggs
-Chicken Stock (I use the organic chicken stock from Coscto.  Such a great deal.)
-Sea Salt and Pepper
 
Boil 4 cups of chicken stock (which happens to be right around the size of the Coscto chicken stock box).  While the chicken stock is heating up, in a separate bowl whisk 4 eggs.  Once the chicken stock is bowling slowly add in the eggs. They will cook instantly!  Add a little sea salt and pepper and you are good to go!! You can add green onions on top like they do in the restaurant or even add a little scoop of quinoa to make it slightly more filling.  (That's what I tried tonight and it worked great!)

It truly doesn't get any easier and less time consuming than that.  Enjoy!!

The Soup!  It looks better in person :)

Product #1- Mood Elevator

My personal goal is to really educate my patients and anyone who wants to learn, so each week or 2 I am going to feature a different product that I use at the office.  Some of you may be familiar with a lot of the products, some of you may not.  If you ever have questions regarding any one of them always feel free to ask! 

Featured Product #1: Mood Elevator

Mood Elevator is a product by Nature Sunshine that simply does what it's name says... elevate/lift the mood.  It is a combination of 17 different herbs aimed at lifting the spirit and gives people a general sense of well being.  The great part is that it is in NO WAY addicting which I see a lot with depression and anxiety medications.  There is also NO withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking it.  That is the worst part of some of the medications out there... it can be so hard on patients when they are trying to wean off of them (on their own, I never tell people to come off medications and legally can't).  It has taken some people 6 to 8 months to finally feel normal again once they are off of their antidepressants or anti anxiety prescriptions, especially when they have been on them for 10+ years. 

Mood Elevator also works directly on the liver.  The liver is one of the organs that greatly influences our moods.  Without a happy, healthy, and properly functioning liver it is hard to feel good.  I don't discredit outside circumstances, however the liver (thyroid and others) have a lot to do with how you handle, cope and move forward from circumstances in your life.  Mood Elevator also works to help balance out the nervous system too!

From my experience this supplement usually works pretty quick- usually around a week to notice a difference.  Now everyone is different and it may take a month for some people while others may notice a difference in a of couple days.  Its been amazing to see some patients moods change who came in feeling down or just like they had no more to give.  Once on this their spirits lift even though their circumstances are the same.  It's been pretty awesome to watch.  It is also great  place to start for anyone who is told to go on antidepressants but is hesitant to. 

Obvious uses are for-  Sadness, depression, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety. 
Other uses- Bipolar, Postpartum depression, Seasonal Affective Disorder

Nature Sunshine makes a regular and TCM (aka concentrated version).  The codes are

• Regular- 1878-8
• TCM- 1035-7 (It is concentrated so you don't have to take as many.)

Mood Elevator is not something to solely rely on but instead help you feel better.  Therapy and counseling are always highly encouraged at my office.  Your physical and emotional well-being are so connected that you want to address both to truly get and feel better.  Visit The Refuge Center in Franklin (Christian based, sliding scale) or Laura Ramey, LMFT (Amazing therapist who understands wholeheartedly what MTCAM is about and the connection between physical and emotional healing!!). 

Ordering information can be found by clicking here and following Nature Sunshine ordering instructions.

 

2 Detoxes for the New Year!

Happy New Year!  I hope you all had a blessed and wonderful holiday season!  With January in full swing I wanted to highlight 2 cleanses that we use pretty regularly at the office.  If you haven't done one of them I would highly suggest it.  I have done plenty of cleanses (other companies too) and these are definitely in my top personal favorites (along with a juice fast... but that's another story).  I love doing at least one cleanse in January and one in June (and I always sprinkle more in there... but its great to get into the habit in January and June)!  Its a perfect way to kick off winter (after the holidays) and also start your summer off right!

Clean Start (General Cleanse) Stock Number 3993-8

Clean Start is a 2 week detox that promotes cleansing of all the filters in your body (liver, lungs, kidneys, bowels, skin).  Each of these areas act to filter out toxins and over time get burdened down and need a little cleaning.  Clean Start does the trick!  It is a drink mix before breakfast and dinner (on an empty stomach) and 3 pills with breakfast and dinner.  

Perfect for someone looking for a general cleanse to get rid of everyday toxins.  (I always feel great by day 4 with increased energy!)

Do not use if you have loose stools.  If it creates loose stool while on it, back down to one a day and finish the box at that dosage.

Tiao He Cleanse (Liver Cleanse) Stock Number 3050-5
In Chinese tiao he means balance and harmony... and that is what this cleanse is aimed to achieve!  It is specifically targeted at the liver.  The liver is the main filter in the body and with the air we breathe in, foods we eat, and other chemicals/metals we are exposed to the liver gets bogged down.  Another job of the liver is to break down hormones that are circulating around.  If they don’t get broken down properly hormones get backed up which causes a whole host of other issues. 

Perfect for someone with symptoms like sluggish digestion, weight gain, insomnia, hot flashes, night sweats, hypothyroid (especially fatigue), any hormonal issues (like PMS, irregular or frequent cycles, endometriosis, PCOS, etc.), gallbladder pain or discomfort, etc.

Tiao He consists of 3 packets a day on an empty stomach.  Typically I have patients do 2 packets a day instead until the box is gone.  If loose stools occur, finish the box at one packet a day.

These detoxes will help your body function more efficiently, increase your energy, clean out your dirty filters like you do in your car and house (aka liver, kidneys, digestive system, skin).  I am personally doing the Tiao He followed by a parasite cleanse.  I have my fiance doing Clean Start and maybe if I am lucky a candida cleanse... crossing my fingers! :)  I know a lot of my patients are kicking off the year with a cleanse as well!  You should too!  If you have questions about the detoxes email me at drcarolynmaxfield@gmail.com! 

Ordering instructions can be found on this page (click here) under Nature Sunshine and the stock numbers are by the descriptions above. 

One More Great Use for Coconut Oil!

If coconut oil wasn't already amazing here is one more way to use it... In your bathtub! 

I learned this from a patient yesterday and decided to give it a try. Oh my goodness! Your skin gets so silky smooth! I always throw in Epsom salts in my bath but haven't ever thought about coconut oil for some reason. I would highly suggest it!!  

2 things... I wouldn't add it in your bath if you plan on getting your hair wet with bath water. You may have a hard time getting the coconut oil out of your wet hair. :) Secondly be careful getting out of your bath tub. Just like your silky smooth skin, your bathtub is also smooth and slick.  I feel like a mom saying that but I almost lost my footing because it was so slippery.

Now go add a couple tablespoons to your bath and relax!! :)

Simple Winter Time Dessert! (2 Ingredients!)

During these icy, cold days and nights the only thing I want to drink or eat is something warm. (That's why I am so bad about water... I just want to drink hot tea all day/hold on to the mug to keep my frozen hands warm!  I have to keep track of my water intake or I slack off.)  Anyways I thought I would share one of my typical nightly 'desserts' if that's what you want to call it.

All you need... are you ready???... is frozen fruit (and coconut oil)!  Put a tablespoon or 2 of coconut oil in your skillet and fill the rest with frozen fruit.  I used the mixed berries from Kroger or Costco.  Put it over low/medium heat and let it simmer.  Make sure you mix the berries occasionally because some of the fruit at the top stays cold unless you stir.  Once everything is nice and warm/steamy (usually takes about 5 to 7 min), pour all the contents (and the juices too which are sooo good!) in a bowl and enjoy!  It will warm you up, give you a healthy 'dessert', and curb your sweet tooth!

For those on Candida Clear:

• Use frozen berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and any combo of them)
• You can put it over unsweetened Greek yogurt
• Drizzle xyltiol over it if you want to sweeten it more (I think its already pretty sweet but you can always add xylitol if you would like)
• You could even sprinkle cacao/cocoa on top to give it a chocolaty taste!  The warm fruit would probably make the powder mix easily.  I haven't tried it, but it sure seems like a good idea... warm chocolate raspberry deliciousness... Yum!

For everyone else:

• Use any frozen fruit (My personal favorites are the berries, cherries and mangoes... not all mixed together)
• Drizzle with honey to make sweeter if you would prefer

Its simple.  Tasty.  You get your coconut oil in.  Takes no more than 5 minutes to make.  A win win win! Enjoy!!

January Special and New Donation Site for MTCAM!

New donation site... Sole Hope!

 

Bring in THREE of the following items and receive $10 OFF your service that day.  Sole Hope is in need of these items to help pull out jiggers from the feet of children and adults in Africa

• Bandaids
• Gauze Pads
• Large Safety Pins
• Stickers for Children
• Medical Gloves (all sizes)
• Neosporin

 

Sole Hope is an organization that works to get closed toed shoes for children and adults in Africa and help prevent foot diseases that are all too common (and preventable) in their area. They teach people in the local communities the trade of shoe making which creates sustainable jobs. Shoe cutting parties can also be done in your own home with friends where all the fabric gets used to make shoes for children and also create jobs for women of Uganda! A win, win for everyone! For more information about the organization visit www.solehope.com and information on shoe cutting parties click here.

 

New Years Resolution!

Okay I have a simple, do-able, no diet changing, no setting yourself up for failure New Year's resolution for everyone.  Are you ready...

DRINK.MORE.WATER.

Simple as that.  When your body is even just a little bit dehydrated, every bodily function suffers. It decreases your bodies ability to supply nutrients to different areas (most importantly your brain!), eliminate toxins, produce hormones and neurotransmitters, etc.  Your goal... ONE gallon and/or make your urine clear! (At least 1 or 2 clear or close to clear voids a day.  Its harder to do if you are taking B vitamins, but try.)  If that is hard start with one liter a day for a week.  Then move to 2 liters a day for the next week and just keep building from there.  It may seem like a lot for some people, but it will be worth it when you notice yourself thinking clearer and having more energy (and maybe even loosing weight without even trying)!!!! :)

Signs and symptoms you are dehydrated
Constipation! (Before running and taking laxatives, drink more water!! Its sometimes such a simple solution), Fatigue, Joint Aches and Pains, Allergies, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol (See interesting fact below), Weight Gain, Acne and other Skin Conditions, Headaches, Trouble Concentrating, Kidney Stones, Premature Aging (dehydration accelerates wrinkling/withering of cells in the body... most visibly the skin), etc.

With my extra research about water (who knew it would be so fun!) there is a fun fact about chronic/long term dehydration and cholesterol.  Cholesterol acts to prevent your body from loosing water.  So think about this... if you are dehydrated your body doesn't have enough water to optimally function.  Therefore you don't want to loose/eliminate any extra water so your body makes more cholesterol to prevent any extra water loss! A simple way to start lowering cholesterol levels is to drink more water!  Not iced tea that is made with water, or coffee, or pop, or kool aid, or whatever... drink pure clean water!  Feel free to add Chlorophyll ES in it if you want a minty flavor with a multitude of other health benefits.  :)

Don't set yourself up for failure this year, but instead make a simple New Year's resolution.  Take one easy step to feel better and make a positive change for your health. 

Here is another blog post I wrote about ways to make your water 'not as boring'.  Click here. 

Office Special for Nutrition Visits! Offer Valid from December 19 to 23!

Christmas Special and Savings at MTCAM!!

Offer available December 19^th to 23^rd only!

  

With Christmas right around the corner there is truly no better gift than the gift of health.  We want to help you and your loved ones have a healthy 2014 and are extending an offer from December 19 to 23^rdonly.   

 

Adults

Buy 9 visits for $468 (20% savings) (6 weeks between visits)

Buy 12 visits for $546 (30% savings)

Buy 15 visits for $683 (30% savings)

 

Children (15 and under)

Buy 9 visits for $324 (20% discount)

Buy 12 visits for $378 (30% discount)

 

You can pay in full or make ½ payment December 23^rdand the 2^nd½ payment on January 15^th at no additional cost.

 

For adult visits it averages between $39/month (for 9 visits) and $57/month (for 15 visits).  That is cheaper than going out for a nice dinner.  By going out one less time a month… you can invest in your health which is what truly matters! For children, it averages $27/month (for 9 visits) and $31/month (for 12 visits)!

 

There is no better investment than your own health.  We wish insurance would cover nutrition visits (its true HEALTH care right?!) but unfortunately they do not.  So for the year 2014 we want to extend the offer above to help you save a little money and help you get/stay healthy for next year!  It is not an overnight process and takes more monitoring and time in the beginning but it pays off!!

 

This is also a great time to invest and save money for children visits too. We want to make it affordable for the whole family, so you can bring in your children and impact their health now and for the future!  They are exposed to all the same environmental toxins and they need care too.  The great thing about children is that they typically respond faster and need to come in less! 

 

For new patients: 15 visits allow you to come in 2 times a month for the first 3 months and around once a month after that.  This is the ideal treatment plan when starting care at MTCAM.

 

For newer patients (been with us a month or two): 12 visits is ideal for you!  It keeps you on track so Dr. Maxfield can monitor your progress and give you the best care possible.

 

For ‘old’ patients (well not old J just been with us awhile): 9 visits (or even 12) is perfect for you.  9 appointments allow you 1 every 6 weeks.  This is the optimal amount of time to check supplements and see if anything has changed!

 

We hope you have had a healthy and prosperous 2013!  If not, don’t wait to make a change… we can help! For those of you who have… it is crucial to stay on the right track and you owe it to yourself to stay healthy!  “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”  Ben Franklin

 

If you have any questions and would like to purchase a package please call the office at 615-656-3558 or stop in!

 

All visits must be used by the end of 2014.  Nutrition visits only and not valid on chiropractic care.  Each package can be used on one person only and nontransferable.  No monthly specials can be used in conjunction with this offer.

 

 

Girl Scout Cookie Bites. Enough Said.

Who said something healthy couldn't taste sooooooooooooo good.  I was on a kick with my food processor tonight.  Made hazelnut butter. (Just throw hazelnuts in the food processor... that's it! I added some cocoa and honey to sweeten it up a bit but you don't even need that! Simply mix in food processor for 10 to 15 minutes.)  Anyways... I have had these dates for awhile and decided tonight I was going to put them to good use!!

(Its not a good recipe for those on Candida Clear. :( I am sorry!)

Ingredients
1/2 cup dates
2 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut
Splash of pure vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt
1-2 tbsp chocolate chips (I had Trader Joe's which are sweetened with cane juice, but there are plenty of others out there.  You could even use the chocolate bar at the office with xylitol!)

Throw all the ingredients in your food processor.  It took about 1 minute to blend and you are left with a delicious end product.  Just take all the dough and pack it in little balls or if you can't wait, just eat it right off the spoon! :)  My only complaint is that it didn't make enough!

The recipe is from the link below.  On the page you will see the actual ingredients of Samoa which I pasted below... 5 ingredients (well 12 including the 5 in the chocolate chips) versus this...

Real Samoa Ingrediants
Sugar, vegetable oil (partially-hydrogenated palm kernel and/or cottonseed oil, soybean and palm oil), enriched flour (wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), coconut, corn syrup, sweetened condensed milk (condensed milk, sugar), cocoa, sorbitol, glycerin, invert sugar, cocoa processed with alkali,cornstarch, salt, caramelized sugar, dextrose, soy lecithin, carrageenan, leavening, natural and artificial flavor

http://chocolatecoveredkatie.com/2011/04/11/girl-scout-samoas-in-larabar-form/

Last Minute Christmas Gifts at MTCAM!

There may be some last minute shoppers out there (Yes... I am one of those people too. So no need to worry!)
Here is a little list of Christmas gifts/stocking stuffers we have at the office, can get online or items that would greatly help your health journey! (What I would honestly consider all great gifts for Christmas :)... but I may have different opinions than most)!! Feel free to email this post to your loved ones as a little hint :)
 
AT THE OFFICE

• Chocolate sweetened with Xylitol
• Coconut Oil- Quarts, Gallons, Coconut Oil Books!
• Toothpaste (Fluoride Free)
• Beautycounter (Toxin and Chemical free!)
• Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash, Body Lotion, Face Wash and Exfoliator
• Kids Shampoo, Kids Conditioner, Kids Body Wash (They smell great!!)
• Body Gift Set (Body wash, body lotion, shampoo, conditioner- and they are packaged so nicely! PERFECT GIFT)
• Skin Cream for Psoriasis and Eczema
• Anti-aging Skin Treatment: Nerium AD Day and Night Cream! Get rid of those fine lines and wrinkles in the new year :)
• Tei Fu Essential Oil and Massage Lotion: Perfect for muscular aches and pains, headaches and sinus congestion

ONLINE
Beautycounter.  (We have a small selection at the office.  Click here to shop online.)
Amazing, non-toxic, feel good beauty products!  I would love any one of these for Christmas.

• My Personal Favorites (hard just to choose a few!)
• Body Lotion, Face Exfoliating Cleanser, Face AM Hydrating Cream, Shampoo, Conditioner, Rosewater Uplifting Spray
• Gift Sets
• Body Collection- Body Wash, Body Lotion, Shampoo, Conditioner
• Face Collection- Cream Face Wash, Exfoliating Face Wash, AM and PM Face Lotion, Eye Cream
• Skin Indulgence- Rose Water Uplifting Spray (LOVE!), Glow Sugar Scrub (for the body), Rosemary-Citrus Body Oil (LOVE!)
• Lip Sheers and Shine (all sorts of great colors and no harsh chemicals or lead like in most lipsticks)- under the Beauty Section
• Face Oils (just add 1 drop with your daily moisturizer)- They smell and feel like a spa!
• Lustro Face Oil 1 - Calendula has a warm, earthy-floral aroma
• Lustro Face Oil 2 - Jasmine has a sweet-floral scent
• Lustro Face Oil 3 - Ylang Ylang & Wild Chamomile has a creamy, fresh, herbal aroma

Nature Sunshine (Click here for ordering instructions. Bold only available online and not in the office. The numbers represent the product ordering codes. )

• Xylitol Gum: Cinnamon- 5400-8, Peppermint- 5408-4, Spearmint- 5405-0
• Xylitol Mints: Lemon- 5415-1 (LOVE THESE!!), Berry- 5412-2
• Chocolate (Sweetened with Xylitol)- 5453-7
• Clean Start: Wild Berry (Who doesn't want a cleanse for the new year :) Right!)
• Solstic Energy (6521-2): Drink packets that have a little natural caffeine in them
• Solstic Revive (6507-7): Drink packets that are perfect after a work out
• Tei Fu Lotion- For muscular aches and pains!
• Tei Fu Essential Oil- Great for sinus congestion, headaches, mental clarity
• Elderberry Defense- Perfect for your immune system
• Silver Shield Liquid and Gel- Great for any sickness and gel you can use topically

 
OTHER
All these items help create healthier cooking at home and lower you toxic load.  Plus they all serve as great presents!

• Food Processor
• Cast Iron Skillet
• Glass Mixing Bowls
• Glass Drinking Cups (out with the plastic!)
• Set of glass Pyrex Containers for storing food (out with the plastic!)
• Ceramic Plates/Bowls (out with any plastic!)
• Ceramic Traveling Mugs (out with the plastic!)
• Glass Traveling Water Bottle (out with the plastic!)
• Hot Plate: Perfect for warming up drinks at work!
• Pamela's Baking Mix (I make so much stuff with this mix!)

Beautycounter Products in the Office! 

 

 

 

The Body Collection (in its nice holiday packaging)!

 

 

Beautycounter Kids Products! They smell so great!

Nerium AD: For wrinkles, fine/deep lines, discoloration, and sagging skin!

 

Lotions, Silver Shield Gel ('Natural Neosporin'), Toothpaste

Golden Salve: Soothing Salve (Great for Hemorrhoids, Rashes)

Black Ointment: Great for Warts and Cysts

 

 

Psoriasis and Eczema Cream

Help to soothe and reduce itchiness and redness

 

 

Coconut Oil by the Gallon and Coconut Oil Books!

 

 

Tei Fu Lotion: Great for muscle aches and pains

Tei Fu Essential Oil: For sinus congestion, headaches, metal clarity

 

 

Xylitol and Energy Packets!

 

 

Tiao He Cleanse: Liver Cleanse (Great for any hormonal issues, sleep issues, digestive complaints)

Clean Start: General cleanse to get of everyday toxins

Emotional Healing with Flower Essences

At the office we have recently got in new products called Flower Essences.  They help people work through emotional healing.  Some times in the office we will hit a plateau... where no matter what nutritional approach we try nothing seems to work.  This is when I know there is an emotional block that is preventing my patient from moving forward and healing.  I do not deal with or ever claim to deal with breaking down emotional issues and finding deeper meanings.  That is not my place, not my job and I am not qualified to do that.  However I can test with these new Flower Essences to help break an emotional pattern that a person may or may not know they have. 

For example my Flower Essence was Be Responsible.  I literally said 'Really?!?!'  I am very responsible and it made no sense to me.  However Be Responsible is a suppressed fear formula (which once I started to think it made sense to me) and the other description was a self defeating behavior.  I am very hard on myself.  I create a large list of things to do each night (knowing  well I can't get everything done) and then beat myself up about it. I do this over and over and over.  So after reading, the description of Be Responsible sounded right.  Since taking it I truly have noticed a difference in my behavior.  I don't create these large lists and I am not nearly as hard on myself. I don't go to bed and think about all the things I didn't accomplish.  I can reflect and be thankful for what I have done.

I have been testing these on patients too.  I truly can not tell you how many times people laugh or give me a big smile when I show them the description of what they tested for.  (Descriptions below.) I don't really know what patients are going through emotionally or what their suppressed emotions may be.  It could be fear, it could be anger, or it could be grief.  Its fun to test and actually see if it matches up to what they are or may be going through.  I have had so many success stories with these and helped people make emotional breakthroughs and changes in their thought process. 

Flower Essences are made by Nature Sunshine with Bach Flowers.  Bach Flowers help to heal the connection between the body and mind and get rid of negative emotions that we dwell on... consciously or unconsciously.  Mine was unconscious and didn't become conscious until I started taking it.  The one interesting thing with the Flower Essences is that you can think of it as detoxing your nervous system or emotions.  When I first took mine I was shaking that night.  Not terrible but kind of like when you are sick and have cold chills.  I felt fine but I kept shaking.  I asked Lori if she felt sick and she was not, so I knew it had to be the Flower Essence.  I just had one day of that 'detox' and I have been good ever since.  Some people notice more emotional 'releases' or feel more frustrated or emotional the first day or 2 and then it lets up.  It is no different than a good cleanse for you body when you have detox symptoms the first couple days.  That means you are really getting rid of toxins (or in the case of Flower Essences, bad or negative emotions). 

Read the descriptions below and see if one sounds more like you or not!  Some people test for more than one, but I only have a patient do one at a time.  If you want to get tested at the office to make sure you take the right one let me know and Ill be glad to test you!  If you have any questions please feel free to email DrCarolynMaxfield@gmail.com!

Take as directed.  They look and taste like water!

Distress Remedy

Benefits:
Supports emotional balance.
May assist the body with occasional emotional distress and emotional balance.

Release It (Vented Grief Formula)

Benefits:

May assist the body with the grieving process.
May help in letting go of the past.
May assist with emotional distress.

Be Courageous (Vented Fear Formula)

Benefits:

May assist with courage and self confidence.
May help with indecisiveness, uncertainty and nervous tension.

Keep Cool (Vented Anger Formula)

Benefits:
May assist the body with feelings of anger and irritability.
May also assist with empathy and communication
 

Find Strength (Suppressed Anger Formula)

Benefits:
May assist with feelings of unworthiness.
May help the body with emotional strength and help deal with occasional emotional stress.

Open Heart (Suppressed Grief Formula)

Benefits:
May assist with the ability to love.
May help release suppressed emotion.
May help increase empathy and compassion.

Be Response-Able (Suppressed Fear Formula)

Benefits:
May assist the body with promoting self honesty.
May help encourage self-responsibility.
May help with self-defeating behavior.