Now that you’ve decide to get real with your health and take control, you and your PCP have come up with a plan which isn’t just your doctor writing a prescription. Your plan will be unique to you and if you’re serious about making changes, it will include you doing some own research as well , tracking your progress and/or reactions to particular treatments.
Personally, I wanted my treatment plan to include as many natural remedies as possible but knew I would have to include medications as well. Once we established our plan, I started tracking my progress. Initially, I had adverse reactions with the first 2 medications that was prescribed to me and It took 3 follow up appointments to tweak the plan and find a regime that we were both happy with. I also have been dealing with anemia. I mentioned this in my previous post and I’m here to tell you all… anemia isn’t to be taken lightly. I felt extreme exhaustion, even if I slept 10 hours, I still felt tired. Then there were times I felt like I could never catch my breath. My PCP really pushed for an Iron infusion, me not so much. The main reason…I don’t like needles. I started doing research on what were natural remedies for Anemia and I even sought out the opinion of a hematologist. He agreed that I was anemic but not severe enough for an iron infusion and he encourgaed me to go about treating my anemia naturally along with a liquid iron that I discovered Feroglobin (which you will not find in any US pharmacy but you can get it on Amazon) I’m happy to report after a month of treatment my iron levels are headed in the right direction and my feeling of extreme exhaustion is improving and I finally feel like I can catch my breath. Initially my PCP pushed for iron pills, which I could not handle at all, I felt like I was kicked in the stomach. However, she really listened to my concerns and was willing to work with me as I researched more natural alternativities.
Tha follow up will check to see if the medications or the plan you and your PCP created is working or not, to check any progress that you’ve made and establish long term goals.
You can’t watch live television without being bombarded with commercials for medication where the adverse affects are worse than the actual illness. We’ve become a society where we reach for a pill for every aliment of headaches to complete exhaustion where we masque only the symptoms and not getting to the root of our real health problem. Unfortunately, we’ve become a society of quick fixes with harsh long term affects. We can’t run to our doctors to slap a band-aid on our heath issues, we need to be acutely aware of our bodies and prepare a plan with You and your healthcare provider
To get the most out of your doctor’s visit YOU must be your own health care advocate! We as individuals need to have an honest conversation with our Primary Care Providers (PCP) especially women. To get the most out of your visits I suggest the following (and yes this is what I did and it has been very eye opening):
Listen to your body: Our bodies will send us signals when it is not operating correctly with headaches, swelling, different degrees of pain, interruptions of natural cycles or extreme exhaustion is our bodies sounding off “something is not right!”. Headaches for example can cause of dehydration, hypertension or a tumor; extreme exhaustion could be a sign of anemia or other aliments. What ever your alarm is screaming, we need to listen our vehicles of life. Unfortunately, many of us will ignore these signals until we can’t anymore and this is usually when some damage has been done. Pay attention to you body, list and monitor your symptoms for a period of time …. if you feel something is “off” then trust your instinct and talk to your PCP. And if you feel like your doctor isn’t listening to you, you look until you find a doctor that does.
Food is Fuel: God has provided everything we need to make sure that we receive all of the vitamins and minerals needed to maintain our temples. Humans have also created some “fuel” that they find essential for our bodies as well. However, not all Fuel is created equal. Just like the wrong fuel in your car can stall your engine so can the wrong foods slow down our bodies. If you take the time to research the essential vitamins we need, you will find that many fruits and vegetable already have what we need. Companies have “added” to what is considered nutritional foods with some good and bad supplements. A good over the counter supplement can aid in the absorption of vitamins and minerals, especially if you’re extremely deficient. However there are foods and drinks that can interfere with the interfere with the absorption of essential elements
Such as milk and coffee. Milk doesn’t “do a body good”; for me personally it causes inflammation and for my sister it causes cold like symptoms. It also also leaches calcium from your bones leading to bone diseases like osteoporosis. Yet, it has been sold as the body building liquid for children by dairy industry and many still believe the hype. Coffee is another culprit ( I know, I love a good cup of coffee too) but can interfere with the asportation of Iron. Sea Food has been linked to high cholesterol (it is also hereditary).
Know your numbers: Before you lay out a plan for your health, you need to know your numbers and this is where that “heart to heart” with your doctor will need to happen. A blood test is a blue print of your health and reveals your levels for your hormones (which could be a cause for some weight gain) vitamin and iron deficiencies, cholesterol, diabetes and so much more. If you know these numbers soon rather than later you can start treatments or even ,in some cases, reverse your diagnoses. Treatments could be a lifestyle change or medications, My personal opinion, opt for lifestyle change before medications (if that is an option)
Family History: In recent months, I’m learning the importance of family history. The genealogy of your family can give you a preview of what may lie ahead in regards to your health. However, this may not always be the option in cases of adoption or just well kept family secrets. Families need to know what is in the gene pool and what is being passed on to the next generation so there aren’t any surprises. DNA kits are making this a reality and we’re getting our unique genetic blue prints that are telling of so much!
Your health like a Boss: The most fashionable thing that we can do ladies (and gentlemen) is to take care of our health. Start with knowing where stand with health risks, know your numbers, eat as much natural and fresh foods as possible (pay closer attention to the labels). If possible, learn your family history. Also, if you have to take you meds…do your research of adverse affects, food and drug interactions of the medication(s) you’re taking.
If you feel good, you will have more energy to participle in this adventure called life.
Polka dots first made their debut in Europe in the 1800s eventually making an introduction into American fashion in the 1920s with the help of Godeys Lady Book, a life style book of the times. Polka dots transcended through the decades with the iconic likes of Minnie Mouse, Rosie the Riveter and Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, ultimately becoming a symbol of fun, feminine fashion.
Throughout the decades polka dots have made an appearance in many collections with extended moments of being center stage. They come in the classic black and white to array of combinations of navy and white, brown and ivory, red and white or multicolored dots. Many designers have presented their version of the timeless print in jumpsuits, blouses, pants, skirts, swim wear, accessories and of course the classic polka dot dress. Naturally I have a couple of polka dot prints but a one can always add just one more.
With different variations of the polka dot print, one of the my favourite collections this season is from Ann Taylor. The classic retailor has stayed true to it’s signature look of
Ann Taylor Summer 2019 Collection
dress, blouses, skirts and jumpsuits in the timeless print (do try on various sizes)
Old Navy is another on of my favourite
Old Navy Jump suit
brands that has launched stylish and inexpensive pieces in polka dots. The slip-on sneakers, dresses and jump-suits are a few of my must haves of the season. The price point at Old Navy also helps so you can get just “a few” more pieces.
Stipe tee and dot shoes : Old navy
The Rules for wearing the classic dots are pretty non existent. I love the way dots and stripes look together! It is a way to refresh your current wardrobe. I also love bold colours paired with the polka dots which can really elevate an already classic look.
The classic dot looks amazing on all women (and men too). But there is an art to pulling off the print:
You wear the print, not the print wears you. Which means the print needs to be proportionate to your body. Extra large prints can make you look small and ill-proportioned. An extra small print can do the opposite and make you look bigger than you are.
Mix-It up: Mixing stripes and dots is a fun and inexpensive way to increase your wardrobe options. Gentlemen, stripe ties and polka dot sock is one of my combinations
Be Bold: Add colour to make a statement with a statement
What ever combination of the polka dots you decide to wear: be classic and true
In the March 2016 edition of “Style by Syraluna”; I wrote on the launch of Christian Louboutins launch of various shades of nude ballet flates. I was beyond excited because there is a designer that understands that “nude” is not beige but a rainbow of ” shades” ranging from ” Apricot” to Van Dyke Brown” colour reference: Crayola crayons.
Fast forward 3 years; retailer Banana Republic are now introducing their line “True hue” which is encompassing of the various nudes. For decades “nude” meant “apricot” and excluded “chocolate, sienna, caramel, mocha, walnut or ebony.” We live in a diverse world and it is about time that fashion has acknowledged the diversity and now represent that. “Banana Republic is proud to introduce True Hues as part of our platform supporting equality and as a way to live out Gap Inc’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity as a whole,” Anouar Alami, senior director of trend and concept for the brand in a press release.
Banana Republic has launched camisoles, body suits, heals and intimates designed by Cosabella in a ray of nudes. This collection is a mazing because nude doesn’t have the same definition for everyone and now everyone can confidently shop their true hue of nude. As Banana Republic embraces diversity , I hope that more brands follow suit and incorporate more hues of nudes in their collections.
The ’90s were about great television with In living Color, 90210 and not to mention the line-up of TGIF. The decade was made of memorable and soulful music from groups like TLC, Escape and poetic lyrics by the likes of Tupac and Notorious BIG that really made one think and reflect on life. Not to mention the beautiful love songs of the John B and Boyz II Men that made you feel incredibly special as if the song was written just for you.
We can’t talk about the 90’s without the topic of fashion. The 90s fashion was very
90s day 2017
eclectic and didn’t always make sense. Now, I will admit, I was not the fashion diva I am today. Truthfully, I was trying to find my “look” I loved the fashions of “Clueless” but unsuccessful in my execution. Then there was my love for overalls and everything FILA and Esprit. Oh, did I forget to mention the boot cut jeans block heels and the combat boots the infamous “Dr. Martens. with pick your flavor of flannel or floral spaghetti strap dress.
The bold Fashion brands of FUBU, Tommy Hilfiger, Cross Colours, Joe Boxer, Gap, Sean Jean and who could forget the infamous Starter Jacket which where chosen partly in favourite team and partly in colour. I know I had a white FILA starter style jacket and I thought I was the stuff wearing it. Eddie Bauer along with BONGO and Pepe Jeans were the brands that made up most of my high school wardrobe.
I was all about the FILA
As the 90s are on repeat with he current generation, I’m seeing scrunchie’s on the wrists, mini back-backs worn by many ages. The flowy and over sized bottoms with fitted tops grace the mannequins and the models of the online shopping pages. Some of the fashions were great while others were…questionable and if you are to partake in the fashions (again for some of us) please refere to the following:
Incorporate one piece at a time, any more and you look like you’re trying to relive the 90s
Understand that this is a trend, so if you’re to wear it, invest wisely in your pieces
Balance and Proportions: wide legs pants with crop tops was a look and unless you’re front a center of a music video, this look will not fly (again); opt for a fitted blouse of sweater.
For me, the 90s were about questionable fashion choices, amazing music and discovering what I would aspire to be. Seeing the fashions that made up our youth can rush in the feeling of nostalgia and it’s great to visit remember to live in the present.
So, I’ve officially completed my third whole 30! I waited a while to post about my last weeks of my journey because I had gone to the doctors to get blood tests done to see how my food choices have affected me inside and out.
Weeks 3 and 4 are amazing! The energy level and the clear mind that I have is incredible. I didn’t feel like I was dragging halfway through the day. Prior to whole 30, I was so tired by mid_day, everyday and I was too tired to work out or tackle personal projects.
I’m amazed at how food can affect your mental health. There were days I just feel like I was in a fog and I couldn’t think clearly but 30 days of no sugars, I feel I’m able to be more focused and more organized and productive. My doctor noticed that my Thyroid levels were elevated and after clean eating on Whole 30, my levels returned to within normal range, my blood pressure has come done, inches have melted away. Oh the compliments about my clear skin… I love that natural glow that comes from clean eating! Every whole 30 I’ve completed I learn something new and some concepts are reinforced, below are my whole 30 lessons learned:
I’m still surprised at the amount of soy and sugar that is listed in foods that are considered “healthy”🥫
Preparation is essential to being successful and it flows over into other aspects of your life.📕
Sugar addiction is real and so are the withdrawals🧁
so many health issues can be reversed with food, which means no weird medical side affects from pills
Your taste buds will change, it’s crazy but they do.👅
You will feel energized and think more clearly🧠
Food is fuel and medicine. Give yourself 30 days and watch how you mind and body can transform.
Okay, so I am at the end of week 2 and about to embark on week 3. I found myself extremely moody and sensitive to everything around me even the sound of someone breathing put me on edge. I even snapped at my manager, her response was “go eat some sugar” luckily, I informed her that I was doing the Whole 30 (again).
The cravings are weird; I craved grape soda. I haven’t drank a grape soda since I was 10. My dreams well they don’t make any sense so I’m not going to even try understand them.
On a positive note, I already feel the difference in how I’m sleeping and waking up. I hit
the snooze button only once instead of my normal 3 times before waking up. I am also exploring so many more recipes and trying different foods. My first whole 30, I kept my sweet potatoes, kale and cauliflower mash in heavy rotation. This time, I’m finding great compliant recipes for my favorites dishes like Zuppa Toscana. You can get the recipe here: http://www.40aprons.com/whole30-zuppa-toscana/
I’m also finding new snacks like the Lara Bar (the whole 30 compliant ones) for the days that I’m considering giving into to that sweet tooth or those days that the clinic is a little more hectic and lunch may be shorter than expected. I will try the non compliant ones in 10 days.
I’m also using additional tools like the Day to Day Whole 30 journal, which really has helped me track my habits, feelings and progress, since weighing yourself during the whole 30 is against the rules. I do find my mind set very focused this time around. The first two times with the program, I couldn’t wait to finish. This time around, I’m considering a “Whole 45″ or longer…we shall see.
What I love about this program is that you are reevaluating how food really affects your body. Today my co-worker said ” look at your skin!” the results are more than losing inches; it’s about understanding how food can give you a better quality of life.
Food is Fuel. I’m sure we’ve all hear that expression from our textbooks in our high school health classes to every nutritionist ever and it’s true Food is fuel. The food we choose to put in our bodies has a direct link in how we preform in our daily lives. As much as I love macaroni and cheese and chocolate everything, I do notice a difference in how I feel when I eat certain foods more regularly. There is nothing wrong with these foods…in moderation.
This is my third whole 30 and I thought I would share my week by week experience with you. First, I originally started Whole 30 because of my friend, Sam, who tried it and she looked amazing; her skin was glowing, slimming down and seemed so much more focused . She motivated me to start and shared with me great tips and delicious recipes that challenged me to explore so many ways to prepare sweet potatoes and the exterior of the supermarket.
My first Whole 30, I was so excited, I ate my last piece of chocolate (my favorite) for 30 days and dove in head first. The results were amazing, skin was clear, my clothes fit so much better that I was even able to expand my wardrobe options with outfits I hadn’t been able to wear in long time. Energy levels increased, I was thinking more clearly and the best night zzzzs I had in a long time.
Whole 30 round 2, was a little more challenging to start. I was facing a lot of challenges personally, professionally and my mind wasn’t focused. In retrospect, whole 30 is what I should’ve been doing. There was always a celebration of some kind that involved a birthday, family vacations, free lunches at work etc. that I fully wanted to take part of. When I finally decided to go all in with the second Whole 30, I had a co-worker doing the program with me. Having the accountability and support of another person was a great help because there were many times I wanted to give into all of my cravings.
Week 1 of round 3 of Whole 30. I’m excited and focused; I have planned for my meals and snacks. Round 3 is motivated by my lab numbers from my visit with my doctor; the acid reflex was getting to be unbearable and my lack of energy was robbing me of peaceful nights of zzzz’s and pursing personal projects and goals. I hand to make a change (again).
week 1: I’m excited and pumped, I went grocery shopping and I’m prepared for my clean eating. The headaches and sugar withdrawals seem to hit harder this time; maybe it’s because I’m expecting them. I’m apologizing in advance to family and co-workers: “if I snap, please know that it is not personal; I’m going through withdrawals; the sugar monster is real.” My acid reflux is gone already and I’m falling asleep easier.. oh and I don’t feel so bloated.
Turkey and kale stuffed butternut squash
I’m trying new recipes; the kale and ground turkey stuffed butter-nut squash is amazing!
It’s easier to turn away from my temptations. We had happy hour this week and I felt ready to face the menu and decided on a bun-less burger with avocado instead of mayo.
If this your first time around, you’ve got this! And stay posted for week 2
2018 is officially the past and 2019 has arrived! Many will ambitiously set new year resolutions and attacking them with gusto; some will set the classic resolutions of improving finances, health, clutter or even relationships. So many will start off strong but unfortunately will lose momentum somewhere along the way and revert back to those habits that we vowed we would change on January 1 and falling into the trap of procrastination and uttering the phrase “next year I will_________________( you fill in the blank).
I’m not sure when I stopped making New Year resolutions because I started to feel that I was setting myself up for failure. To announce a resolution on a date that the world has deemed a day to “reset” yourself and establish life changing goals. I’m learning to set goals throughout the year and celebrate the little wins along the way. As I continue to set and achieve my personal goals, I will share with you what I find helpful in achieving them.
Look at the whole picture.
No matter the goal you have set, first look at the whole picture: the who, what, when and why of the goal you have set; then attack the how, make a plan that is ambitious but realistic and celebrate the mini victories along the way.
If financial stability is your goal, first look at where every dollar is coming from and going. Create a spreadsheet of your finances or try apps such as Mint or Everydollar to help your financial focus.
You’ve set a goal to work on you health. Get a physical so you know where you stand with your numbers in regards to blood pressure, cholesterol, hormone levels, weight etc. A journey starts with the first step of knowing what direction your headed.
Your goal is to strengthen your relationships with friends, family or spouses, start with self reflection, write in a reflective or inspirational journal map out your feelings and what you want to achieve in your relations.
Whatever goal you have set, you first need to be honest with yourself, yes it is cliché but you know I’m speaking the truth. I have also found that having God involved in all aspects of my life will give you peace while you are achieving your goals. Accomplishing goals just doesn’t magically happen it takes planning, faith, accountability and endurance. Below tid-bits of advice that I find to be very helpful
Education and tools.
Your goal(s) are set but you need a strong foundation and education is key. There is so much information out there from books to websites and videos strikes of the keyboard
away. Last year I started the goal to work on my finance. I found Dave Ramsey’s book “Total money make over” an essential tool. It basically has a blueprint on how to start saving money and getting out of debt. Now as a former educator, I know books are not enough, so people need visuals, charts graphs etc. I personally found apps that show me progress are extremely motivating and get me excited about reaching the next level of my goal.
There are some many “blueprint” books out there that can help you be successful. You want to change you eating habits, try “Whole30”, the program is designed to
make you look at your foods and how body responds. What ever your goal is there is literature out there to get you started and educate you on a path way of success.
“The Happiness Project” is great book that I personally enjoy because it has challenged me to look at different aspects of my life and relationships from different perspectives. There are journal exercises that poses questions that make you think out side of the box.
Emotional Support & Advice
Some days are going to be harder than other and you’ll need a cheerleader to help you get you through those thoughts of doubt and confusion. For this you’ll need the influence of people who are where you want be. You want financial stability, talk to people who have their finances in order, they’ll have some insights that may help you achieve your goals. Health and fitness, surround yourself around individuals who are crushing it, they eat healthy, they are active. Exercise and clean eating are two of the greatest medications out there. Avoid people who are quick to give advice but don’t live by their own principles; this will on infuriate and discourage you. Our families can be our biggest supporters but they also can be our biggest enablers. I have my greatest support from friends and others who are distant from the situation and hence have a more neutral perspective and can give more sound advice.
Write it Down
We live in a digital world and it is great for so many things like reminders for meetings and doctors appointments. But there is something to be said about pen and paper, for me seeing it written out on a calendar or journal, almost as a contract between yourself and your goal. It is such a satisfying feeling to see goals being check off. Writing things down gives you an idea where you are emotionally and how much you have achieved in relation to your goals. I personally feel that now that it is written down, it is no longer a thought swimming around; it is now the first step in your many steps to greatness.
Whatever your personal goal is remember this:
Education and a strong foundation are key in achieving your goals.
Write and plan your goals down.
Celebrate the mini wins along your journey; it is great motivation for perseverance.
Surround yourself with like minded individuals
Have faith in yourself and with God all things is possible.
Christmas has come and gone, most of us have watched “Love Actually” and “Chevy Chase Christmas vacation” by now (my two favourtie Christmas movies) donned Holiday attire and have attended our holiday soirees, with the biggest one hours away… ringing in 2019. As we bring 2018 to a close I want to reflect on 3 of my favourite trends this year.
All things Sparkle
Sparkles, both literal and figurative, I like to have that sparkle in my life. I’ve worn the sequin skirts and tees but this year opted for the glitter sneakers from Old Navy. They are comfortable and are definitely a statement pieces and the best part was I had some sparkle in every step. I like this look with jeans and a blazer or dresses.
Old Navy sequin sneakers
I know many of you are shocked because I usually don’t wear sneakers and you’re right, I don’t but I have made exceptions for Converse, vintage Nikes or Addidas and now glitter sneakers. However my rule is, you must elevate the sneakers! The fastest way to elevate them is to throw on a Blazer and viola you’re rockin’ the sparkles while looking professional.
Eye Lash cardigans
Ava and Viv sweater with J.Crew tee
OK, so I was very skeptical of this one because it screams “90s fashion” (which I am not a a fan of) but it is incredibly soft and elegant when styled “just the right way” Many designers from Banana Republic to Anthropology debuted a version of a white eye lash cardigans, however I decided to incorporate the cardigan from the “Ana and Viv” collection in Target. It is a slightly cropped V-neck cardigan embellished with gold large buttons (how could I pass up gold buttons). Paired with white jeans and tee, it was a cozy winter look.
The Jump Suit
Lane Brynat Jumpsuit
Who can resist a beautifully structured jumpsuit? As with a fashion, there is great inspiration behind it; the jump suit is no exception. Here is a little history behind the jumpsuit. It was first worn by astronauts, pilots, and skydivers, then women started wearing them when they had to work in factories during the World War II. Like all trends, the jumpsuit eventually made its way to popular culture with singers like David Bowie and Elvis Presly perfoming in them. Asit mad it’s way to the mainstream fashion, the jumps suit was a must have of the 70s and 80s fashion. As we know, all fashion is cyclical and it faded away from mainstream fashion for about a decade or two; but it has come back full force. The jump suit, in my opinion” has now become a must have any wardrobe. With so many cuts and fabrics, the jumps suit can be worn at the office or out on the town.
Some trends eventually become classics and a staple in your wardrobe, just look at denim. Then there are pieces that are just trends and will make an appearance every decade or so. Just remember, don’t splurge on a trend because come next season, it will not be on trendy. Do pair a trendy piece with a classic like a blazer or pencil skirt and most importantly add your signature to your trend and make you look unique.
I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas. Happy New Year. I do have one favour to ask of you… Appreciate the people in your life by telling them often how much you love them and how amazing and important they are.
I’m also finding new snacks like the Lara Bar (the whole 30 compliant ones) for the days that I’m considering giving into to that sweet tooth or those days that the clinic is a little more hectic and lunch may be shorter than expected. I will try the non compliant ones in 10 days.
Style by Syraluna 