Hello

Nutrition It’s hard to believe that each food has its own mission. Each one comes together to provide the best nutrition. The food pyramid is more than just plain art. Different groups each play an essential part. Countless plates are filled with many different meals. All cooks want to know exactly how their food appeals. Oh how hard it is to satisfy every single one. Is the food undercooked or decidedly overdone? A variety of tastes must surely be accounted for. Otherwise one can expect everyone heading out the door. Don’t get discouraged, as there’s plenty of time to learn. Make great nutrition your core, and you’ll know where to turn.

Shuffle I   base my life off morals, but it has some penalties. One is living by hard work doesn’t come with ease. When conflicts come up, as they’re bound to do, It’s a struggle to adhere to what I know is true. Trying to prevent the shuffling of decency, I contemplate which path is the best one for me. Directions will change and road blocks do occur, Yet I must remain firm, so I’m not inclined to err. In the end, nobody cares for your net worth. People know you by the values which you carried on earth. Accepting this fact paves a strong path indeed This is the same way people once strove to lead.

            Echinacea is an herb, commonly known as “American Cone Flower”, among other names.   Its use dates back to being a traditional herbal remedy for the Great Plains Indians and has later been used widely across the U.S.   Echinacea is primarily noted as an aid for colds and other upper-respiratory infections.   Specifically, it seems to enhance anti-inflammatory chemicals in the body which may lessen the severity of cold and flu symptoms.   Clinical evidence suggests Echinacea has the ability to stimulate the immune system, however, this has now been seen in humans.   For safety, it shouldn’t be consumed if one has an auto-immune disorder, as it may worsen the condition.   Echinacea may contain chemicals which attack yeast and other fungi directly.   Topically, Echinacea has been used to treat boils, burns, abscesses, ulcers, psoriasis, eczema, UV damage, herpes simplex, bee stings and...

One of the main alkaloids in ephedra, known as “ephedrine” was first isolated and described by Nagai in 1885.   Since then, research has indicated that ephedrine and pseudoephederine (the other main alkaloid) stimulate brain activity, raise heart rate, narrow blood vessels and dilate the bronchial tubes.   Another effect of ephedra is a quicker metabolism as shown by increased body heat.   Due to its significant stimulatory effects, many athletes have used ephedra believing it will increase their performance.   Others have taken ephedra as a weight loss, aid; sometimes with aspirin and caffeine.   There are many serious side-effects associated with ephedra including dehydration, hyperthermia, irregular heartbeat, heart attack and stroke and death.   These should be given adequate consideration when using it for athletics, or in combination with caffeine.   Both of these raise one’s heartbeat without the use of ephedra, and thus cardiac events becom...

              Valerian is an herb, the root of which is commonly used for sleep disorders and a variety of anxiety conditions.   Some scientific evidence suggests valerian may be helpful with sleep disorders, however not all research is in accord.   Overall, valerian appears to have a sedative effect, relaxing the brain and nervous system.   As a result, it has been used for hysteria, hypochondria, ADHD, excitability, fear and related conditions.   Some side-effects of valerian may include headaches, excitability, uneasiness and even insomnia in some cases.   There currently is not enough evidence on whether or not valerian’s use is safe during pregnancy, so it’s best to be avoided during this time.   Due to valerian’s nature to slow down the central nervous system, it’s suggested that valerian use should terminate at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery since some medications may also...

Stevia’s use originated in the Amambay mountain region with the Guarani Indians; who originally called it “kaa he-he” or “sweet herb”.   As a substitute for sugar, stevia appears to have ample potential, with no calories and no increase in blood sugar after consumption.   One study done by a Perdue University biochemistry professor in 1968 appeared to draw a connection between the use of stevia and a contraceptive effect in rats.   In response, the FDA has taken action to allow the marketing of stevia as a dietary supplement rather than an ordinary food product.   The 1968 study has various factors which need to be considered before drawing conclusions.   Chiefly among these is a very high concentration of stevia administered in a brief amount of time (10 milliliters given in 20 minutes).   Also, this one finding with rats may not necessarily reproduce the same effects in humans.   Kuc admits the study “absolutely needs to be redone”.   Dozens...

            Native Americans were the first to use cranberries in various areas of their lives.   They valued its applications in food, fabric dye and as a healing agent.   Afterwards, this dynamic fruit was used on ocean voyages to prevent scurvy.   Currently, cranberries can be consumed in their fresh, whole form, as a juice, dried or as a sauce.   Some research indicates that cranberries may be helpful in preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs).   Specifically, their consumption was shown to have an anti-microbial effect on Klebsiella bacteria, and E. coli.   Other research suggests that cranberry intake may be effective against H. pylori infection in women when combined with antibiotics and a proton-pump inhibitor.   As a result of its microbial-inhibiting properties, cranberry’s role in preventing UTIs becomes clearer.   Many of these microbes can lead to the formation of UTIs and...

I get a sentimental feeling when I'm out there in the world As if my higher-self is reeling in a destiny unfurled Seeking to learn from nature as I walk across its ground Feeling small in stature in an existence profound Some may be surprised with what they find a walk can do A wealth not compromised and a fresh perspective too

I’m grateful to the spirit that’s shown me so much truth So thankful that I hear it and have known it from my youth My inspiration runs deep, some do not understand What keeps me supported, with all of life’s demands Trust in your potential; don’t let doubt bring you down You know it takes less effort to smile than to frown I’m thankful for the people who’ve given me so much Those who give me hope when sadness has me clutched There’s always been a reason for how I choose to live To show the world my passion in everything I give I’m grateful to the spirit, in which I hold great trust And I will never fear it; this guidance is a must

Over the five years that I’ve been studying, critiquing and interpreting the science of nutrition, I’ve learned a great deal on how to best apply this practice towards my career goals.   The satisfaction of using nutrition for bettering individual and collective health motivates me to pursue this field to its fullest.   As a result, I have actively sought out and opened many doors, allowing me to diversify my abilities as an RD to be.     On campus, for example, I began doing a nutrition radio show.   This helps me with the crucial task of dissecting scientific studies into lay language for the general public.   I learned the dos and don’ts of scientific communication, which will help me latter on when counseling patients and/or clients.   During nutrition lectures, I’ve actively participated, asking questions to help clarify material.   Nutrition classes have also presented additional opportunities to apply myself.   For example, in my nu...