acid reflux

Acid Reflux

by February 2, 2023

Acid Reflux Today

Acid Reflux is epidemic, although most people probably don’t even know they have it.

An estimated 100 million Americans have reflux, many of them unaware of it because acid reflux can be silent.  A generation ago it was considered a middle-age problem however the incidence is on the rise.

Why? Largely due to excessive acid in our diet from process foods.

Today, young adults in their early 20’s and 30’s are at risk for acid reflux.

If you answer yes to any of these questions, you could be dealing with symptoms of acid reflux:

  • Do you clear your throat a lot after eating a meal?
  • Do you wake up in the middle of the night coughing or short of breath?
  • Is your throat hoarse or sore in the morning?
  • Do you have a sensation of a lump in your throat or difficulty swallowing?
  • Are you plagued by postnasal drip or excessive mucous?

Causes of Acid Reflux

  • Immune Challenges
  • Food allergies or sensitivities
  • Hiatal hernia
  • Medications
  • Inflammation
  • Respiratory / pulmonary issues
  • Muscle weakness
  • Neurological event: Stroke, Cardiopulmonary, MS
  • Nausea
  • Regurgitation
  • Chest pain
  • Hiccups
  • Pain when swallowing
  • Gas and bloating
  • Chronic sore throat
  • Vomiting
  • Bad breath

 

IonCleanse Detox

Ionic Detox Foot Bath

by February 2, 2023

Did you know that there are more than 2000 sweat glands and 4000 pores in your feet? It’s no wonder that detoxifying footbaths have been used in Ayurvedic and Eastern traditions for thousands of years!

In fact, this system of healing was also used by the Romans in conjunction with public baths to draw impurities out of the body through the processes of osmosis and diffusion.

While the use of ionization in a detox foot bath is relatively new, the technique itself is based on ancient and well-respected methods that are still practiced today. And, when combined with ionization, the detoxification effects can happen more quickly and be even more dramatic.

Let’s dive into exactly what an ion detox foot bath is, how it works, and how it can benefit your overall health.

What Is an Ionic Detox Foot Bath? 

A detoxification foot bath is simply the process of soaking the feet in a tub of warm water. Certain ingredients are added to the water to assist the detoxification process. It’s one of the safest and most relaxing ways to remove toxins from the body.

There are many types of detoxification foot baths.

Some include:

  • Charcoal foot bath
  • Bentonite clay foot bath
  • Epsom salt foot bath
  •  Apple Cider Vinegar with the Mother foot bath
  • Essential oils are commonly used in these mixtures

Here at McElwee Natural Health and Healing, we offer the ionic detox foot bath. We prefer this method because it is highly effective for enhancing the body’s natural ability to detoxify itself. Read on to learn how it works!

How does the Ionic Detox foot bath work?

The process of an ionic detox foot bath is actually quite simple. We start by filling a tub with warm water. Salt is added to the warm water to improve conductivity. Then we place an array into the tub to produce a gentle electrical current.

This direct current breaks the water into positively charged hydrogen ions and oxygen gas, or negatively charged hydroxide ions and hydrogen gas, depending on the settings we choose. We utilize muscle testing to find the correct setting for the individual person’s need.

When the machine is turned on, the patient might notice a slight tingling sensation in the feet. That’s because our bodies are made of water and electrolytes, and they allow the current to travel through the body. This current causes the tingling sensation as it works like a catalyst to boost the body’s own natural detoxifying abilities.

By the end of a 20-minute session, the water changes color. The color change is caused by the oxidation of the metal plates in the array and the ions reacting with solutes in the water.

An ionic foot detox is more effective than other foot detox modalities because the electrical current actually travels throughout the body and stimulates lasting detoxification effects. Other modalities offer similar relaxation benefits, but the effects don’t last, and they can only remove toxins close to the surface of the skin.

What are the Benefits?

The primary benefit of an ionic detox footbath is that it enhances the body’s own natural detoxification abilities. This allows the body to remove heavy metals and other toxic elements from the body more efficiently.

Assisting the body’s natural detoxification process results in:

  • A stronger immune system
  • A reduction in chronic pain and inflammation
  • Prevention of chronic disease
  • Relief from the symptoms of chronic illness
  • Potential weight loss
  • Increased energy and focus
  • Enhanced lymphatic drainage
  • Better skin health
  • Fewer headaches and migraines
  • Improved circulation and heart health
  • An overall feeling of relaxation and improved mood
  • Stress relief
  • A reduction of swelling in the feet and ankles
  • Improved digestion and nutrient absorption

Often, when we are working with a patient to boost their immune system, their progress can become stalled due to the body’s inability to remove toxins efficiently. If toxins are allowed to build up, the patient’s immune system suffers, inflammation increases, and the body reabsorbs the toxins it can’t get rid of.

By supporting detoxification and boosting circulation, we can ensure that the patient’s lymphatic system does not become blocked or switched. This allows the body to push out any residual toxins, resulting in improved overall health for the patient.

Who can benefit from an Ionic Detox foot bath?

Just about anyone can benefit from an ion detox foot bath to boost their overall health. Ionic footbaths are also beneficial for those suffering from skin conditions, fungal or yeast infection, heavy metal build up, and digestive issues. This treatment also works well as an accompaniment to other therapies, such as Red Light therapy and the Hypervibe therapy.

Are there risks?

Side effects are very rare. However, some patients may experience mild nausea or dizziness after their treatment. You should always let your practitioner know if you have any health conditions or take any medications, just to be safe.

Do Ionic foot baths actually work?

Unfortunately, there are a few small and poorly conducted studies that have led to some skepticism about the effectiveness of ionic footbaths. However, many people who utilize the Ionic foot bath treatments have seen positive effects!

Studies conducted by AMD show significant increases in the amounts of heavy metals in the detox foot bath water after 30-minutes. Another study by AMD also found a significant decrease in Glyphosate levels in the urine of patients who received ionic detox foot baths.

Scientific research also shows that patients who receive an ion foot detox have higher amounts of toxins in their urine and stool within three days of treatment, further demonstrating that the treatment does indeed enhance detoxification.

And finally, the Pacific College of Health and Science also quotes a study that demonstrates a significant reduction in aluminum and arsenic levels in the patient’s blood after ionic cleansing.

Wrapping it up

In addition to ionic foot baths, our personalized nutritional plans, colon drainage, lymphatic drainage, Red Light therapy, and Hypervibe therapy,  are all available as part of a personalized plan to support detoxification. All of these therapies increase circulation and help the human body eliminate residual toxins efficiently and effectively.

Detoxification is often the first step in a holistic treatment plan that focuses on optimizing the function of the entire body and its organ systems. Our goal is to address the underlying causes of illness, whether they are related to genetics, environment, or lifestyle.

We utilize a combination of natural strategies and lifestyle support to enhance the body’s innate ability to heal itself. If you are interested in taking a proactive role in your overall health, you can learn more about it in our private Facebook group: McElwee Natural Health and Healing.

gluten free pancakes

Fool Proof Gluten Free Pancakes

by January 31, 2023

This is a fool proof recipe. I have been making this basic recipe for over 5 years and have tried many different substitutes throughout the years as my sons health continued to improve. You really can’t mess it up. If you are dairy free, it works. If you are sugar free, it works. If you are only gluten free, it work. If you are egg free, it works. All you have to do is switch out the “dairy” ingredient for non dairy of your choosing. I have tried almond milk, coconut milk, cashew milk, goat milk, and cow milk. For butter I have tried coconut oil, myikos cashew butter, ghee, lard, tallow, bacon grease. All successful. For sugar if you don’t want to use organic raw cane sugar you can use maple syrup, honey, coconut sugar, agave syrup. All successful. If you can’t have egg then flexegg or egg replacers still work. When possible, I choose organic. I prefer to use cast iron for most of my cooking. When used correctly they are wonderful. If using enough butter, lard, or tallow there should be no sticking and very minimal clean up. It’s a huge learning curve and many give up on them out of frustration. If you keep practicing you’ll get the hang of using them.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbs organic raw cane sugar [or raw local honey/organic maple syrup/coconut sugar]
  • 2 tbs organic butter [or lard/tallow/bacon grease/ghee/Myikos/coconut oil]
  • 1 organic free range egg [or flex seed egg/egg replacer]
  •  1 tsp pure organic vanilla extract
  • 1 cup gluten free flour (I prefer Bobs Red Mill gluten free 1:1 four or Pillsbury gluten free flour over King Arthur gluten free flour)
  • 1/4 tsp xanthan gum (if your gluten free flour blend doesn’t have it)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tbs Bobs Red Mill gluten free baking powder *make sure you are using a brand that is gluten free and aluminum free*
  • 1/2 cup to 3/4 cup raw goat milk (depending on the consistency you prefer of your pancakes) [or coconut milk, almond milk, cashew milk, hemp milk, cow milk]
  • frozen fruit optional

Directions:

  1. Warm up that cast iron skillet for about 5 mins, no less, on medium low heat while you mix your batch. [If using stainless steel cook as normal]
  2. In a large bowl or Kitchen Aid mixer, whisk together the egg, melted butter, raw cane sugar, and pure vanilla until combined [Make your substitutes as needed]
  3. Add in gluten free flour, baking powder, salt, and xanthan gum (leave xanthan gum out if your flour mixture already has it) and mix until well combined (you can not over mix gluten free flour)
  4. Add in milk and mix until smooth (for thinner pancakes use the whole 3/4 cup | for thicker pancakes use 1/2 cup or find your desired consistency by playing around with the milk amount)
  5. If  adding fruit, fold it in now or add a few pieces to each pancake as it cooks [other optional add ins: nuts, coco powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, enjoy life chocolate chips, etc]
  6. Your cast iron skillet should be nice and hot now. Add butter/bacon grease/lard/Myikos to skillet
  7. I recommend using a 1/4 cup scoop to pour batter into skillet – I recommend 2 pancakes at a time for perfectly round, evenly golden pancakes. Flip + turn when needed.

*Before cooking new pancakes, rebutter the skillet.* This is a must when cooking with cast iron. Every. Single. Time. Your food should not be sticking to the bottom of the skillet if you are using enough butter, lard, or tallow. I DO NOT recommend using seed/nut oils in cast iron. They make the cast iron get sticky and junky – I try to stay away from nut and seed oils as much as possible. Many store bought brands are rancid which is not healthy for our body. When you read my recipes you will always see me using real butters, locally sources lards and tallows. Rarely will you ever see oils in my recipes. If using stainless steel cook pancakes as you normally would. Gluten free items do take longer to cook so keep that in mind.

These pancakes freeze perfectly. Just take them out as needed, thaw in the fridge, then pop them into a toaster. Add butter, if needed (remember I added lots of butter while cooking when using cast iron) and organic maple syrup. I usually double this recipe and prep them all for the week.

goat milk yogurt

Goat Milk Yogurt

by January 30, 2023

Do you know the ingredients in your store bought yogurts? Are your yogurt ingredients clean? If you are buying clean yogurt from the grocery store you are probably paying around $7 for two small containers. 

Did you know you can make yogurt, from scratch, at home with minimal effort? You get to control and limit your ingredients. You know it’s fresh. And you get a little more than half a gallon for the same price you are probably paying for about 5 store bought clean yogurt containers.

Homemade Instapot Goat Milk Yogurt

  • 1/2 gallon raw milk + 1 extra cup if adding gelatin
  • 2-4 tbs starter culture *any organic store bought yogurt with live cultures will work. Or yogurt starter culture. Or grab some starter from a friend who makes yogurt.
  • If using goat milk I highly recommend using a clean gelatin to thicken as goat milk yogurt is very thin. If you like drinkable yogurt, don’t use gelatin.
  1. Chill your Instapot stainless steel bowl with cold icy water for ~ 15 mins then pour ice water into a separate larger bowl to save for a later step. This will keep the milk from burning the bottom of the pot
  2. Pour half a gallon of raw goat milk into chilled Instapot stainless steel bowl
  3. In a glass measuring cup add an additional cup of milk + clean gelatin. I use ~ 2 tbs. Mix well and set aside. This will thicken goat milk yogurt. If using cow milk you can skip this step.
  4. Press the yogurt setting, then hit the adjust setting until it says boil. I highly recommend using a candy thermometer for this step.
  5. Let the temperature rise until 165° so that the gelatin will set when we add it. Remove film and discard it. Pour in the cup of goat milk with gelatin, mix well, and turn off Instapot.
  6. Drop the temp quickly to 115° by setting the Instapot stainless steel bowl into the larger bowl of ice water. Stir until it drops to 115°. Should only take a few minutes. Use a candy thermometer. Temperature is important.
  7. Pour 1 cup of that goat milk mixture into a large measuring cup or bowl. Quickly add in your starter and mix until incorporated. Then pour the starter milk mixture into the rest of the milk mixture in the Instapot stainless steel bowl.
  8. Dry the outside of the Instapot stainless steel bowl and place back into Instapot.
  9. Press the yogurt button. Then hit the adjust setting until the screen reads 8 hours. Put the Instapot lid on and leave the valve to vent.
  10. Let incubate at 115° for 8 hours. When it’s finished it will say YOGT
  11. Once finished save 1/2 a pint for your next batch. This will become your starter.

I make my own non pectin jam to add flavor.

Homemade Non-Pectin Jam

This recipe is enough for the entire batch of yogurt: 

  • 4 cups organic berries (or any organic fruit)
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup – 1 cup organic raw cane sugar
  • 1 tbs vanilla optional 

Add lemon juice and fruit to a heavy bottom pot. Simmer on two until juices release. Blend then return to the pot. Add in sugar. Continue to simmer on two until thickened. Let cool until 115° before mixing into your yogurt. Anything above 115° will kill off the good bacteria in the yogurt. 

I ended up with 1 starter jar, 10 half pints, and 7 quarter pints of fresh strawberry goat milk yogurt. 

Other Jam Ideas: Blueberry, Strawberry, Peach. Cherry, Mixed Berry, Vanilla, Blackberry. Raspberry, etc. I recommend staying away from bananas. Without a stabilizer it will turn brown quickly.

Vaccine Injury in Child

by September 17, 2021

Nutrition Response Testing has played an intricate role in my sons healing journey. He suffered a major vaccine injury which left him extremely vulnerable with major lung and gut damage. It was difficult to find a healthcare practitioner to take us serious and help guide us on his healing journey.

Through Chiropractic care, clean Whole Foods, and Nutrition Response Testing we’ve been able to heal most of his vaccine damage. Nutrition Response Testing has been a huge aid in relieving food allergy symptoms caused from accidental cross contamination as we continue to work on healing his gut health and re-establishing a healthy microbiome.

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      3415 McCommons Rd. Churchville MD. 21028

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      443-903-7096

      EMAIL

      robynmcelweenaturalhealth@gmail.com

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