Getting Healthy

[asherah]

Ok, I have just turned 40 and I have a 31/2 month old ds.
I have had some health problems, nothing too major, but enough for me to realize my body is sending me a message.
I have to change things in my life-style and diet and focus on getting healthy.
I'd love to get some kind of work-up and advice on what I need to do.
Problem is, I can't figure out what kind of practitioner to go to.
Obviously not an allopath. But who? Naturopath? Homeopath? Traditional Chinese Doc?
Any suggestions on how I begin to get healthy?

[dfoy]

Hi asherah!

I'm 42 and have a 17 yo dd and a 1 yo dd. I hear you about the health issues! I started a healthier path about 12 years ago. Here's what I would recommend after seeing a physician of your choice:

1. See a dermatologist for a skin cancer, melanoma check

2. Change your diet:
Limit processed foods
Limit fast food (I NEVER eat it, except for occassional Chinese carryout and pizza)
Limit or cut out hydrogenated oils (use canola & oil oils & buy crackers and cookies at a store like Wild Oats or Whole foods....most mainstream brands use hydrogenated oils)
Eat your veggies
Eat your fruit
Eat whole grains
Eat a variety of beans
Limit meat intake or cut it out altogether
Buy organic produce, meat and dairy whenever possible
Drink your water
Eat soy in moderation

3. Start exercising:
Lift weights (you don't need to belong to a club or have a personal trainer...get some cheapy weights - 5, 8 & 10 lb- and get a good video) at least 2x per week.

Do yoga or pilates (again...good videos will do) at least 2x per week.

Walk, jog, bike, swim, hike or do some other aerobic exercise (I like the kickboxing videos when the weather isn't good enough to go outside to exercise) at least 3x per week.

4. Have some meditation time or just time for yourself. I meditate at the end of my yoga practice. Sometimes I just need a bubble bath and a glass of wine!

A good resource is www.drweil.com

I'd recommend his book, 8 weeks to Optimum Health, as a resource!

Good luck on your path to good health!