Yummiest Gluten Free, Low Salicylate Pasta that KIDS WILL LOVE (and adults too)

This is my absolute favourite failsafe pasta dish that I am proud to have invented myself! I adore it and so does my son :)

It is wheat free, gluten free, nut free, low in salicylates (or moderate if you prefer sweet potato) and delicious!

It does contain dairy however goats cheese is generally better tolerated than cows. I find that I can tolerate it ok but I am not as sensitive to dairy as some.

Ingredients:

• 1 packet of organic brown rice pasta or Orgran rice, garlic and parsley pasta shells.
•  A few potatoes or 1-2 sweet potatoes if you can tolerate something from the moderate salicylate category now and then, I have started introducing sweet potato, pumpkin and peas with success, I love it with sweet potato but fine if you can only use potato.
•  Celtic sea salt
•  1 packet of fresh goats cheese (find at health food store or markets, can even be found at normal supermarkets generally now) if you cannot access this use cottage or ricotta cheese
•  250gms of homemade, organic butter from pasture fed cows (you should also be able to get organic butter from your local health food store or markets)
•  A bunch of shallots
•  2 leeks
•  A small amount of organic, cold pressed sunflower oil or more butter for roasting the potato/sweet potato

Method:
Put the oven on 200 degrees or around 400 fahrenheit and peel and chop potato/sweet potato into small bite size pieces, about 2cm cubed, place on a baking tray with some oil/butter and some celtic sea salt and put it in the oven until it is nice and golden brown and cooked through.

Place some water onto boil

While it is cooking chop up the leeks and shallots into slices and place in the frying pan on medium heat with a decent amount of butter and cook until golden brown

Once water is boiling cook up the pasta, as soon as it is ready, strain and mix through the fresh goats cheese.
When everything is else is cooked, throw it all into the pot of cooked pasta with goats cheese and mix it all around, put in a little more salt if you feel it needs it.

ENJOY! Such a simple delicious meal. I hope you love it as much as I do :)

I will leave you with some affirmations by the beautiful Louise Hay, say these to yourself throughout the day, in the morning, in bed at night, as you cook and in the shower. Remember to tell yourself that you love yourself and that you accept yourself. Especially in the mirror.

"My life gets more fabulous every day. I look forward to what each new hour brings."
"I am a radiant being, enjoying life to the fullest."
"I know that old, negative patterns no longer limit me. I let them go with ease."
I have really been enjoying reading her books and listening to her audio Cd's, I highly recommend it.

Much support and healing thoughts to you.

The Truth About Fats

I have written an essay on fats/oils as I am extremely passionate about exposing the truth and uncovering the lies we have been fed on this topic.
Low fat diets are NOT better for your health, fats are absolutely essential and critical particularly in children and the elderly and most people actually benefit from a diet HIGHER in fat, it just needs to be the right kinds of fats. You will actually find that you lose weight if you consume the beneficial fats and eliminate the toxic fats.

There is much controversy surrounding whether saturated fatty acids (SFAs) are to blame for cardiovascular disease, according to Enig and Fallon (1999) they are not.  SFAs lower Lp(a), enhance the immune system, are needed to properly utilise essential fatty acids and have important antimicrobial properties. Scientific evidence does not support that SFAs cause heart disease. In fact evaluation of the fat in clogged arteries shows that only 26% of it is made of SFAs where more than half is made up of polyunsaturated fats (Enig & Fallon, 1999).

SFAs are found in butter, palm and coconut oil and animal fats (Barasi, 2007, p. 33).  Although it is widely suggested that butter should be consumed very little, if at all, there are actually many health benefits to be obtained from consuming raw organic butter from grass fed cows including its content of vitamins A, E, D and K and lauric acid, lecithin- essential for cholesterol absorption and antioxidants that protect against weakening arteries (Gates & Schatz, 2011, p. 104). The studies of Dr Price (Enig & Fallon, 1999) who followed the diets of isolated traditional people showed that the butter these people consumed was exceptionally high in all fat soluble vitamins and according to him, without these we would not be able to utilise the minerals we ingest no matter how much of these we were getting in other foods. Raw butter also contains the ‘Wulzen factor’ discovered by Rosalind Wulzen, it is also known as the anti-stiffness factor which protects against calcification of joints, hardening of the arteries, cataracts and calcification of the pineal gland (Enig & Fallon, 1999).

There are MANY other health benefits to be obtained from using raw butter from organic, pasture fed cows. You can make your own butter in your own home using the Thermomix, just grab some raw cream and churn away! Alternatively you can ferment the cream with a vegetable starter kit, I like Body Ecology brand http://bodyecology.com/articles/benefits_of_real_butter.php and turn it into butter this way. Butter is PERFECTLY SAFE for those of us who are salicylate intolerant and generally even for those who have a mild problem with lactose.

Coconut oil is extremely high in salicylates but if you are not salicylate intolerant this is a wonderful oil to use. Coconut oil is particularly important for those suffering from candida or other fungal infections or parasites. It has amazing antifungal and antimicrobial properties and contains lauric acid which has very similar properties to that of mothers milk. It also received a very undeserved bad rap from America surrounding detriments in terms of cardiovascular disease. Studies actually reveal that coconut oil protects the heart from cardiovascular disease and also has anti-cancer properties. Pacific Islanders who use it as a regular staple have a very low incidence of cardiovascular disease.

Monounsaturated fatty acids tend to be liquid at room temperature and are found in olive oil, canola oil and some nuts and avocados (Enig & Fallon, 1999). They are thought to be a healthy source of fats in small amounts and are said to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, ease inflammation and play beneficial roles in many other health systems (Shulman, 2010, p. 50). However this is certainly not the case for canola oil, which is genetically modified and processed making it harmful for human consumption (Fallon & Enig, 2002). According to a 1998 report, mice fed a diet containing MUFAs were more likely to develop atherosclerosis than those that were fed SFAs (Masterjohn, 2012).

Organic extra virgin olive oil is again very high in salicylates but if salicylates are not a problem for you it is perfectly safe to be used in salads and cooking at moderate temperatures, if you wish to cook at higher temperatures coconut oil is the best for this. It is high in antioxidants and safe to use in moderation.
Again avocados are extremely high in salicylates but are a wonderful source of fatty acids if you do not have a problem with these.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are known as essential fatty acids as they are not produced by the body and are needed for the brain, nervous system and retina function (Shulman, 2010, p. 52; Barasi, 2007, p. 33). Scientific research indicates that the modern diet contains far too high levels of PUFAs, around 30% of caloric intake instead of the recommended 4% (Enig & Fallon, 1999). EFAs should be sourced from things like high quality fish oils, flax and safflower oils and some seeds and nuts (Shulman, 2010, p. 52). The problem with PUFAs is that commercially produced vegetable oils become rancid when they are subject to heating, oxygen and moisture in cooking or processing and excess consumption of these has been shown to damage cells, immunity and increase the risk of cancer. (Enig & Fallon, 1999). Clinical trials have failed to support the hypothesis that replacing SFAs with polyunsaturated vegetable oils would prevent heart disease and instead showed clear links to the PUFAs being the culprit. SFAs in the form of arachidonic animal fat were not found to be “deadly” but were necessary for the body to resolve inflammation as needed (Masterjohn, 2012). It is however important to note that studies on omega 3 EFAs have shown beneficial effects in the secondary prevention of coronary heart disease but omegas 6 and 3 should be consumed in a ratio ½:1 instead of 20-30:1 as they are generally consumed these days (Simopoulos, 1999).

I use Bioceuticals UltraClean EPA/DHA Plus. There has been some suggestion that fish oil is beneficial for those who are salicylate intolerant, this may be due to the anti-inflammatory properties but this has not been properly scientifically confirmed, I believe it is a wonderful supplement to have in the diet however especially given we cannot consume the amazing coconut oil or olive oil and avocados. Fish oil and my own homemade butter and sometimes ghee are my sources of essential fats.

The RPAH Salicylate Guidebook recommends safflower oil, sunflower oil and canola oil. As previously mentioned vegetable fats when heated become toxic, the only one of these oils I would use would be safflower oil if it is organic and cold pressed and then only in salads, never heated. If you are salicylate intolerant the safest fats are animal fats, butter, ghee and fish oil.

Trans fatty acids (TFAs) should be avoided particularly in processed and packaged foods (Shulman, 2010, p. 53).  They have been linked with detrimental effects on plasma lipids, raising LDL levels and lowering HDLs, making them a huge concern in terms of cardiovascular disease (Barasi, 2007, p. 33)
In order to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and maintain optimum health it is important to consume the healthy kinds of antimicrobial fats such as animal fats, raw organic butter and coconut oil that once protected us against the onset of pathogenic plaque that leads to heart disease, along with consuming the recommended amount and correct ratio of EFAs omegas 3 and 6 in their natural form and avoiding toxic substances such as free-radical containing vegetable oils, margarine, trans fats and canola oil which cause the body to need constant repair (Enig & Fallon, 1999).

If you would like more information please visit http://www.westonaprice.org/know-your-fats/skinny-on-fats

Letting go of the Resentment

I have resented a lot of things in my life. My asthma, acne, the people that bullied me, friends that weren't there for me, my allergies, salicylate intolerance, government bodies, situations, day to day life. I have also harboured a great deal of anger about many of these things. According to Louise Hay the biggest four emotions that create dis-ease in the body are resentment, anger, fear and guilt. I think I have been holding onto all of these emotions for many years, and by the way it is now scientifically proven that thoughts and emotions can either create dis-ease or promote healing, I mean Louise Hay and many of her readers have cured themselves of CANCER with the power of nutrition, affirmations, self-love and positive thinking and there has been a great deal of research surrounding neuropeptides and their connection with illness. If you are interested in understanding more about the amazing power of your thoughts and emotions take a look at the book It's the Thought that Counts: Why Mind Over Matter Really Works.

If you only ever buy one book in your entire life make it Louise Hay's You Can Heal Your Life. Honestly. It will completely change the way you think and if you practice your affirmations and are truly grateful for your life, your family, the food you CAN eat rather than that you can't, your life will completely change for the better. For the love of everything stop blaming other people for the way your life is, your partner, your parents, your kids, your boss, the asshole that just cut you off, the bully at work. You attract your experiences by the thoughts you think, if you take control and think positive, loving, affirming thoughts and stand your ground, be kind but firm, these experiences and situations will begin to dissipate.
Look in the mirror and say to yourself I love you, I really love you. Practice your affirmations, you can make them up, or buy a deck of cards from Louise Hay, everything is cheap on fishpond, get some SUNSHINE, it's not hard to take your kids down to the park or go on a nice walk and sit in the grass, look around you at all the beauty, stop seeing the ugly and the bad in everyone and look for the good, the little old lady with a scary beard and not so attractive clothes could be the kindest, most wise woman you have ever encountered.

Stop WHINING about your intolerances, really, last night I ate an organic eye fillet, in a homemade butter sauce (butter that I had made myself from organic, pasture fed cream), fried up some leeks and shallots and made some suede mash with butter, celtic sea salt and natural yoghurt. Dinner fit for a queen! Next post I will post my all time favourite delicious pasta dish that kids will LOVE.
Also if you are worried about all the butter I consume, stop, you have been fed a ridiculous amount of lies about butter, read these articles for more information http://bodyecology.com/articles/benefits_of_real_butter.php, http://www.westonaprice.org/know-your-fats/skinny-on-fats.
Much love and support to you all :)

Going Gluten Free, Benefits for Everyone

Digestive disorders such as Crohn's, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, candida, food intolerances, allergies and autism are more and more common in today's society. The American food pyramid would have us believe that we should consume mostly pasta, cereal, bread, flour etc. This couldn't be further from the truth and guess who the pyramid was created by? Someone who was employed by Kellogg's, surprise surprise (thanks to my fabulous nutrition lecturer Leonie for this little insight).

Flour is literally glue in your digestive system, it has no nutritional value given it is stripped of all the vitamins and minerals during processing. It can lead to blood sugar problems as flour breaks down into glucose, constipation and literally FEEDS yeast and pathogens, it 'gums up' your insides and is a major contributor to all the aforementioned dis-eases. Unfortunately gluten intolerance or celiac disease is more and more common and even whole grains such as spelt, rye and oats can be a problem for these people, as well as those battling candida or a yeast infection. Fortunately there are a few wonderful products that you can use to overcome this situation. My personal favourite is quinoa, this grain, or really seed, is truly amazing. It is a complete protein, carrying all nine essential amino acids, is high in magnesium, essential for relaxing muscles and a variety of essential bodily functions, fantastic source of fiber (yes I am going there, you will poop better), it is also a good source of manganese and is an excellent antioxidant, removing free-radicals, aiding in the prevention of cancer and other dis-eases. PLEASE ENSURE YOU SOAK IT OVERNIGHT FIRST. This will ensure proper digestion and assimilation and get rid of any lectins which can be a problem.

Buckwheat, millet and amaranth are also excellent alternatives but to ensure proper digestion and assimilation it is an excellent idea to first soak these grains in some filtered water overnight or for the day before you cook them :) Going gluten free is NOT the end to eating wonderfully delicious meals, there are so many options and delicious things you can make that are full of nutrients and will leave you feeling vibrant and healthy, help digestion, constipation, acne, fatigue and even irritability. Give the gluten free way a go for a few weeks and let me know if you notice any changes.

I have also found these noodles called miracle noodles that are gluten and wheat free, I am NOT sure if they are acceptable for those of us who are salicylate intolerant but it's definitely worth checking out, here is the link :) http://www.miraclenoodle.com/default.aspx If you want to know more about the benefits of going gluten free visit these wonderful links-

http://bodyecology.com/articles/quinoa_benefits_guide.php#.UJIcMmfU2So
http://bodyecology.com/articles/risks_consuming_grains.php#.UJIUh2fU2So
http://www.westonaprice.org/making-it-practical/replacing-white-flour?qh=YTozOntpOjA7czo1OiJmbG91ciI7aToxO3M6NjoiZmxvdXJzIjtpOjI7czo3OiJmbG91cmVkIjt9

All the best on your gluten free journey to health and healing. Jessie.

Allergies and Intolerances Support Group Brisbane

I have created a facebook group for supporting allergy sufferers and parents of kids with allergies/intolerances, wonderful place to share recipes and love! http://www.facebook.com/groups/205601389574537/

Affirmations and my Perfect, Low Salicylate Breakfast Smoothie

Recently I have discovered the magic of Louise Hay and her healing through affirmations, self love and positive thinking. Every morning I wake up, thank the universe for my beautiful family, my life, the food I DO get to consume (and forget about the food I can't), my home, my friends and my education. Then I meditate for a little while in the sun and tell myself that I am worthy, vibrant, healthy and a good person. I actually stand in front of the mirror and say I LOVE YOU, I REALLY LOVE YOU. Yes I felt like a complete and utter dickhead when I first started doing this, like I am tooting my own horn or something. But it has really changed my life, I also read I Can Do It Affirmations every day. I can feel my health getting better, my skin is clearing and even my sons behaviour has changed because I am happier within myself.
According to Louise Hay, metaphysically allergies relate to being allergic to someone and denying your own power, she recommends the affirmation "The world is safe and friendly. I am safe. I am at peace with life". Say this to yourself several times each day.
Now for a delicious, low salicylate, green breakfast smoothie!
Juice a few stalks of celery and one packham pear, add some low salicylate pea protein powder (I like Tony Sfeir's or Eagle) and blend with some natural yoghurt (Barambah is organic and ridiculously delicious), voila! Protein packed, alkalising, energy giving and DELICIOUS smoothie :)

A Healthy Guide to Foods Low in Salicylates

Unfortunately there is a boatload of misinformation on the internet about the salicylate levels in foods. Here I will write out the true list adapted from the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital guide, including only healthy foods that promote healing and leaving out GMO products, sugar, wheat, gluten and fats/oils that promote toxicity.

LOW:
Fresh ripe pears
Potato (I find it best to limit or eliminate this is if you have digestive problems or candida)
Iceberg lettuce, Bamboo shoots (tinned and fresh), Beans- butter, french, string or snake, Bean shoots, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage- red, green (drumhead), savoy, wombok, Celery, Chives, Choko, Garlic- very small amounts only, Leek, Mungbean sprouts, Shallot, Swede
Fresh, unaged, unprocessed, organic meat- chicken without the skin, lamb, veal, beef
White fish- bream, flathead, ling, perch, snapper, whiting
Crab, Lobster, Calamari, Sea Scallops, Natural Oysters, Mussels
Fresh, free range, organic eggs
Dried and canned legumes as listed-
NB legumes should be soaked and drained overnight for at least 12-18 hours for proper absorbtion and easy digestion and then cooked. They should be avoided where there are serious digestive issues or candida is involved.
Split peas- green and yellow, Chickpeas and chickpea flour (besan flour), Lentils- red and brown, Borlotti beans, Canellini beans, Lima beans, Haricot beans, Black eye beans, Red kidney beans, Soya beans, White beans, Bean mixes
Cashew Nuts- this site will not include any recipes with nuts as I am allergic
Poppy seeds
Agar Agar, Baking Powder, Bicarbonate of soda, Carob powder, Citric Acid, Guar gum and Xanthan gum, Natural vanilla essence, Vanilla pods
Garnishes- chives, parsley, saffron threads, shallots, spring onion and celtic sea salt
Butter- make your own in the Thermomix from fresh organic cream or buy a good quality organic butter for optimum health or use Ghee. The only other dairy I consume is natural yoghurt in my morning smoothie (I like organic Barambah) I also use fresh goats cheese from the markets or health food store.
The RPAH book recommends Canola, rice bran oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil and soy oils but the only one I would be using would be safflower oil and then only on VERY low heat if at all and only organic cold pressed, these kinds of oils can cause serious damage to your cells, heart health and immune system not to mention put on weight. Check out this article for more info http://www.westonaprice.org/know-your-fats/skinny-on-fats
The only flours/grains I use are listed below. I mill my own flour using the Thermomix so that I get the nutritional value of the husks freshly milled- flour should be used sparingly and as a special treat, 80% of your diet should be made up of  vegetables for optimum health!
Amaranth, Buckwheat, Besan, Tapioca, Potato, Quinoa, Brown rice, Rice paper
These foods are all low in salicylates, because of my sensitivity I stick to mostly these foods but will soon be introducing foods in the moderate category.