Nutty Meatfruit

Five Years

2011-09-29T11:36:00.000-04:00

Wow!

It has been an interesting five years ... Ulcerative Colitis to appendicitis and Crohn's Disease. No sign of active disease during August 2010 colonoscopy, but switched from Pentasa to Entocort EC to address mild/constant pain about 8 weeks ago; follow up next week.

I am not SCD, but still dealing with allergies, and focused on getting fit!

Yesterday a coworker (and gym buddy) revealed that he is going into surgery for IBD, and that inspired me to visit the "community" ... see how my Crohnies are doing!

Crohn's After All

2009-03-08T22:51:00.005-04:00

My appendix was inflamed (and removed); there was a lot of other activity in the RLQ ... but I have Crohn's Disease, for sure.

NOT Ulcerative Colitis?

2009-01-09T19:05:00.007-05:00

Huh?

Well, I've failed to respond to Colitis treatment. Symptoms got worse with Crohn's treatment. It doesn't even seem to matter what I eat, or when. But the pain and malaise persist.

A ha! The CT scan did not illuminate my appendix!

Has anyone heard of chronic appendicitis presenting like IBD?

Back to Basics

2008-12-15T10:29:00.003-05:00

Mmm. SCD Introductory Diet soup. I can eat this, if nothing else ...

No Heat!

2008-12-14T09:21:00.002-05:00

Areas of the Northeast (including mine) have been without electricity since midnight on Thursday, 11 December. On Friday we were at home with running water, fireplace and gas stove; yesterday we headed to stay with my family. I am not feeling well; could not eat and experienced a rigor lasting two hours last night. Either there is a connection between UC and body temperature regulation, or I am just responding to stress and infection. Either way, this whole situation is definitely not good.

Winter Heat

2008-12-11T19:29:00.010-05:00

Here it comes. That old familiar RLQ pain. Stiff, achy low back. The uncomfortably heated hips, thighs, knees. Fever, night rigors. The fatigue and general malaise.

Since my Jinxy July post, I have been fully preoccupied with an exciting--and excruciatingly stressful--project at work. Now commuting five days a week, I am less vigilant about avoiding grains and sugar, but not carelessly so. I still eschew all nuts, corn syrup, coconut, soy, and various other fruit allergens (due to OAS or oral ulceration).

For months, I have been treating low back pain with prescription Motrin. Initially, taking at certain points of my cycle only. Then, almost daily. I realize now that I have probably been denying the inevitable ... an Ulcerative Colitis (UC) flare-up.

The body DOES have a way of making stop and pay attention. Thank God for that!

GI doctor called in a 14 day course of Cipro on 10 Dec.

Jinxy

2008-07-16T10:18:00.001-04:00

Is it every time I post "all's well" that something breaks down, or does it just feel that way right now?

Nut-free Meatfruit

2008-07-12T13:02:00.007-04:00

I am happy to report that my health has been relatively cooperative during this eventful professional and personal phase! I avoid all nuts and feel so much better for it. Accidentally ingested some peanuts the other day. Intolerance re-confirmed (ugh).

Experiments with seeds, grains and starch have been somewhat unscientific--usually performed when I'm virtually starving but all I can scavenge is a bag of blue corn chips--or when my salad doesn't satisfy but those French fries promise an unctuously substantial conclusion!

Potatoes and onions seem to make the nose run; corn makes the tummy rumble; and tomatoes and soy result in a fat, tingly tongue (see Oral Allergy Syndrome). There are myriad other foods I avoid for similar reasons--too many to list--but fortunately, none of the reactions are bad enough to really bring me down!

To reflect present diet: this blog's banner shall change, though the URL remains the same.

SCD, Nut-free

2008-06-23T17:56:00.000-04:00

Cross Reactions

2008-05-03T09:51:00.004-04:00

Oral Allergy Syndrome OAS. Sounds a lot like me!

No, Nutty, No Soy.

2008-04-24T15:53:00.007-04:00

No dairy. No corn. No strawberries, raisins, coconut or nuts. No soy.

Pretty soon it'll be no itchy jaw. No tingly tongue. No tight throat, bloated belly, itchy eyes or runny nose. No--well, you get the picture.

I have been venturing into a non-SCD™ world and getting some curious insight to my food allergies.

Sixy Baby

2008-04-13T14:43:00.011-04:00

I link to this lovabl-ogger and what results? A meme tap!

Six words to describe my essence:

adaptable
considerate
expressive
grateful
incisive
inquisitive

I debated whether to put these in sequential or alphabetical order. That fact pretty much affirms that I chose the correct 6.

I tag Bean Mama, Alicia, Jilluck, Shannon, Susan, and Lynn Barry.

Roasted Toasted Spring Chicken

2008-04-07T18:07:00.011-04:00

Roasted Toasted Spring Chicken

Ingredients:
4 skinless Chicken thighs
Honey
Pinch of each: Cayenne Pepper, Cardamom, Nutmeg, Ground Cloves
1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Sea Salt
Freshly Ground Pepper
Juice of 1/2 Lemon
Dried Parsley
Olive oil
3 Apples
2 Tbsp Toasted Head Chardonnay (plus more, for drinking)

Method:
Marinate Chicken thighs in Oil, Lemon juice, Honey, Salt, Pepper and Spices for 1/2-1 hour.

Heat oven to 375°.

Completely brown marinated thighs in a bit of oil over high heat. Remove Chicken to oiled baking dish. Pour wine into hot skillet; scrape up brown bits and stir to thicken.

Chop Apples and arrange on and around Chicken. Pour wine glaze over chicken and sprinkle with Salt, Pepper, and Parsley.

Bake, uncovered, for one hour.

No News

2008-04-05T09:43:00.003-04:00

Hard to believe that two months have passed since the CT Scan. Everything is just fine right now. I am still following SCD™; avoiding nuts as much as possible; and staying busy with non-health issues like work, home, etc. Thank you for the inquiries!

Nuts!

2008-02-25T08:43:00.007-05:00

It seems to be consensus among my medical care providers that the discomfort I feel stems not from a disease of the GI tract - UC is healed with diet and energy therapy.

Unfortunately, I continue to have bowel symptoms - somewhat improved with the new probiotic, but present still. Am I back at the beginning, with a catch-all IBS diagnosis?

Is it allergies? My neck and jaw itch from time-to-time. Blood results showed very low intolerance for pecans and white rice; I wasn't advised to do skin pricks or further testing at that time.

I keep trying to go a day without nuts, but I break down in the late afternoon when I crave a crunchy protein with my coffee! Could coffee be the culprit (gasp!)? I shall ask my Primary about an Exclusion Diet and if she thinks it's right for me.

Bless the Pollinators

2008-02-13T21:34:00.004-05:00

Get some of these beauties before the price of stamps goes up ... again.

Layer Cake

2008-02-11T10:07:00.000-05:00

Mmm ... if you can, you should.

Simple Swordfish

2008-02-11T09:46:00.000-05:00

Simple Swordfish

Ingredients:
1 or 2 1" thick Swordfish Steaks
Lemon
Garlic Cloves, chopped
Fresh Parsley, chopped
Sea Salt and Pepper, freshly ground
Olive Oil

Method:
Combine Lemon zest, Garlic, Parsley, Salt and Pepper.
Chop each Steak into 4 or more pieces.
Coat Swordfish pieces in Olive Oil; rub with zesty mix.
Marinate in glass dish for 15-30 minutes.
Heat oven to 425°.
Bake Fish on broiler pan for 15-20 minutes then broil for 2-5 minutes.

Cat-free!

2008-02-01T15:23:00.000-05:00

Scan result is negative for disease! Ultrasound confirms that my pain results from one of those "other things," not GIT-related. I believe this condition is relatively easily remedied; I wait for a call from my primary care physician.

Glow-tini

2008-01-29T19:17:00.000-05:00

Evidently the center of my LRQ pain lies precisely at McBurney's point. This symptom is consistent with--among other things--Crohn's and subacute appendicitis. Subacute is not the precipitous, "exploding" variety of appendicitis we commonly hear about. I have also experienced what my Gastroenterologist calls a "rigor" (brief but scary shuddering episode followed by a sweat) - this event usually indicates a systemic infection. More news after CT scan tomorrow, I hope. Additional UA and blood to be submitted on Thursday.

I'll be tipping back a couple of contrast cocktails later on. Nôtre santé!

Update 31 Jan: Results due tomorrow, 1 Feb 2008.

Eight Legged Dream

2008-01-18T10:54:00.000-05:00

I am chasing a slippery, malicious, pinkish-purple octopus around my house. One minute he is cradled in my arms, the next, gone. I search the baseboards, the cabinets. I venture to a dirt-floor basement (this is not my house) and wait to catch some movement among dusty boxes and crumpled blankets. It finally occurs to me that it may have simply gone. I tell myself to accept that it is gone, and that I must try to go on with life without the fear that it may be lurking.

If dreams have meaning, what is this about?

Does this squishy mass of arms represent my intestines?; does the elusive nature of it mean the disease is gone, or is simply hidden?

Related fact: Octopi creep me out, big time.

Some Web results ...

"OCTOPUS - symbolizes the spirits of the Underworld and mysterious otherworldly forces."

"OCTOPUS emotional entanglement
OCTOPUS emotionally engrossed
OCTOPUS hands everywhere"

"The sea octopus represents a chaotic, eight-legged vortex of flesh and confusion. If you see one in a dream, it may be a sign that you should avoid careless infatuations or juggling relationships. If you are eating an octopus, you have recently put a period of romantic turmoil behind you."

"The eight legs, with their suction cups, can represent clinginess or grabbiness. They can change color like a chameleon, and so can represent changing moods. They can inspire fear in some people, and fascination in others."

"To see an octopus in your dream, signifies that you are entangled in some difficult matter or situation. Or it may mean that you are overly possessive and too clingy in a relationship."

Curious, no?

Footnote:

This is the most adorable octopus ever. Handmade in rural Kenya. I was going to post a photo at the top of this post, but was too freaked out by Google's image results. I refined my search to "octopus toy" and came up with this knit sweetie.

The Good News

2008-01-17T19:02:00.000-05:00

I called my Gastroenterologist's office this afternoon to find out whether they had received any test results.

They had ... and the results are all good!

B₁₂: normal. Iron: normal. Sed Rate: 3 (normal range is 0-20). C-Diff: negative. WBC not present in specimen!

I am doing something right!

So ... why all the pain in my lower right quadrant despite SCD, Vitamin D and Pentasa? I have accepted the Doctor's recommendation to try Entocort® EC, a new type of corticosteroid used to treat Crohn's Disease. I'll have been on it for about a week before my next office visit.

Most Useful

2008-01-13T20:27:00.000-05:00

"Do not eat after 7PM! Eat lots of plain toast and pasta! Avoid raw vegetables! No gluten! No dairy! Eat only fruit before 10AM!"

With a diagnosis and (healthy) recommended diet, I jumped off the dizzy-making food-go-round. I simplified my repertoire of meals and got serious about cooking gear.

My pick for Most Useful kitchen purchase of 2007 is the 12" Le Creuset® skillet - we use it 1-3 (or more) times every day. It took some time to get used to the weight of this cast iron baby; indeed my wrist still aches after a vigorous sautée--oh, why I don't use our All Clad® stainless pan for sautée? Proper choice or not, I've simply assigned my loyalty to another.

A close second place for Most Useful is the 7" Wüsthof Santoku. That knife outsharps all others--except its Very Useful paring companion.

Did you make any noteworthy investments in your kitchen last year?

Savory SCD Meatloaf

2008-01-06T18:51:00.000-05:00

Savory SCD Meatloaf

Ingredients:
1 lb. Lean Ground Pork
1 lb. Lean Ground Beef
¼ cup Almond Flour
1 Egg
4 Cloves Garlic
¼ Small Onion
Pinch Rosemary; Pinch Thyme
Olive Oil
1 tsp Coarse Celtic Sea Salt
Freshly Ground Pepper

Method:
Heat oven to 375°.

Mince Onion and Garlic and heat together with a bit of Olive Oil in small frying pan. Remove pan from heat.

In medium mixing bowl, combine Egg and Almond Flour. Add Salt and Pepper. Crush dried Rosemary and Thyme between your fingers, sprinkling over Egg mixture. Use clean hands to completely incorporate Ground Meat and mixture.

Form a giant meatball and pat gently into stone or ceramic pie dish. Do not press to edges, merely flatten the ball. Pop dish in oven and bake for about one hour.

Note: The Egg and Almonds give Savory Meatloaf a slight crust - reduce temperature and extend cooking duration for a thoroughly moist meatloaf, if preferred.

Testing 2008

2008-01-03T19:29:00.000-05:00

I have submitted blood for B₁₂, Red Blood Cell Sed Rate, Iron and Iron metabolism (I have a genetic marker for hemochromatosis). Specimen will be dropped at the lab tomorrow for Gram stains to detect C-Diff A/B and White Blood Cells. In the mean time, I am advised to continue Pentasa, restart superdose of Vitamin D, and find a good probiotic.

Pentasabbatical

2008-01-01T12:40:00.000-05:00

A week or two after my 7 month followup, I had a fairly severe flare-up. I finally decided that the benefit of my SCD conversion cannot be fully realized if constantly impeded by inflammation. I consulted my primary care physician. She congratulated me on my success with reducing symptoms through diet and lifestyle change, but agreed most emphatically with my intention to try a prescription drug. She reminded me that chronic inflammation may increase one's risk of cancer, and that I am already in a higher-than-average risk category for my age. I swallowed my pride and made the call (I think admitting you need help is the First Step?). My Gastroenterologist called in Pentasa toute de suite.

Both doctors said that this anti-inflammatory shall allow me to eat "normally" without symptoms. SCD was compulsive, but is now optional.

I narrow my eyes and raise one brow. I resolve to stick to The Diet ... then I get brave.

I test the flora with former irritants such as soybean oil. No problem. Rice. Corn. I consume a bit of sugar, and ... I survive! There is nothing I can't eat! But I am conservative. I follow SCD guidelines most of the time (knowing that it is not effective without strict devotion).

The initial dosage seems to work immediately after consumption, but discomfort recurs before the next dose is due. After 4 weeks, he increases dosage by one pill. It works!

Then ... we approach Christmas. No treat is left unsampled.

I start losing sleep again around 26 December. I admit that I may have brought this gastric avalanche upon myself, but ... I was encouraged to eat "normally" and enjoy the full effect of this medicine. Perhaps it is simply not the right one for me. Or perhaps I just need to ride this one out and be kind to my system (read: cut the nasty complex carbohydrates).

Ouch. The saga continues.

Happy Birthday Nutty Meatfruit

2007-11-04T13:13:00.000-05:00

Today is the first anniversary of the instantiation of this blog. I am most grateful for my readers’ advice and empathy during a year of setbacks and discoveries. The food lovers (and haters!) I have met through this journal make the adventure a little more bearable. Have some cake!

Sugar-free Grain-free SCD Birthday Cake

2007-11-04T12:11:00.000-05:00

Sugar-free Grain-free SCD Birthday Cake (Frosted with Frosting!)

Cake Ingredients:
4 Eggs and 2 Egg Whites
2 tsp Baking Soda
½ cup Honey
¼ cup Nut or Seed Oil
½ cup fruit (Apple, Pumpkin, Ripe Banana? Pick one, or none—it’s your birthday!)
½ tsp: Cinnamon, Ginger
¼ tsp: Nutmeg, ground Cloves
4 Cups Almond Flour

Frosting Ingredients (from Cooks.com)
1 cup Honey
2 Egg Whites

Method:
Combine all cake ingredients and bake in two 8” pans at 325 for approximately 40 minutes or until light brown and cooked through.

Once cake has cooled: “Boil honey approximately 10 minutes in heavy saucepan. Honey will turn dark. Beat egg whites until stiff. Pour honey in fine stream into egg whites while beating. Frost cake immediately.” Note: attend the boiling honey – it becomes quite bodacious!

Spicy Mead+fruit

2007-10-30T06:01:00.000-04:00

My first home-brewed batch of mead was finally laid down just after 7 PM last night. What was intended to be 2 modest single gallons ended up as one giant peach-spice blend (thanks to the wrong size "one-size fits all" bung). The champagne yeast seemed a little tired at pitching, but today the mix is foaming slightly and the airlock bubbles like an engine-that-could. I may need to take remedial measures to excite the blend before the 6 month (mid-fermentation) tasting event, but for now I am thinking positively!

Out with Bob, In with Joe

2007-10-29T14:49:00.000-04:00

In New Hampshire, one can buy 1 lb. superfine but unblanched almond meal for $3.69 at Trader Joe's. Beats $10+ for the Red Mill stuff. Is there a better deal?

Cool Change

2007-10-15T18:44:00.000-04:00

Just before Summer days grew chill, little orange butterflies began to cross my path. Reading in bed, my eyes are drawn by a brave and lazy flutter. I pause at a bright, bustling pair between the office and me. A single illustrated Monarch hovers beyond the square window in my birthday card. I became aware of many more such instances. I believe they amount to a good omen.

Approaching the anniversary of my diagnosis, I believe that a positive transformation is in store for me this year, in health and in home.

Nut-fruit Spice Muffins

2007-10-07T15:18:00.000-04:00

Nut-fruit Spice Muffins

2 Eggs
1 tsp. Baking Soda
1/2 cup Applesauce
1/3 cup Honey
1/4 teaspoon of: Cinnamon, Ginger
Pinch of: ground Cloves, Nutmeg
1 1/2 cups Almond Flour
Handful of: walnuts +/or chopped fruit +/or blueberries

Heat oven to 350°. Combine ingredients in the order listed. Spoon thick batter into silicone muffin pan and bake for 35 minutes.

7 Month Followup

2007-10-03T20:08:00.000-04:00

I finally saw my Gastroenterologist to check in and collect the last outstanding results from the tests I took in March. It is unknown whether GI conditions are the same today, but since I am feeling "better," I opted out of retesting at this point.

Earlier March tests indicate that my white blood cell count was extremely high; I've just learned that Candida was still overwhelmingly present as well. Yeast showed up on the Gram stain ... and grew abundantly on other samples. Vitamin D levels are still a concern.

My doctor describes how yeast can counteract inflammation; slowing bowel function and reducing diarrhea that might otherwise occur.

I detail my exquisitely disciplined menus and dining schedules; my use of peppermint tea to soothe inconvenient and long-lasting reactions to "SCD illegals" and the sporadic flare-ups that double me over. I mention the Standard Process nutrients, energy therapy and massage; all of the natural healing resources I am incredibly grateful for.

He affirms that I've a great job managing my UC with diet but asserts that I am certainly not in remission if I continue to have these episodes despite my attention to preventing them. He recommends trying some organic techniques and then retest and reconsider treatment protocol in 3 months. Although I do not want to do a maintenance medication, or lifetime protocol, I might just bite the bullet and get balanced before the risk of cancer outweighs the risk of dependency.

I'll take 50,000 I.U. or 1.25 grams of Vitamin D once a week and 1200 I.U. of Calcium daily (I chose a Calcium supplement with Zinc and Magnesium). These should help support digestive function and the ability of my autonomic immune system to relax after the "threat" of complex carbs (or stress, or hunger, or whatever) is dealt with. Probiotics are also on the shopping list. I am accepting recommendations ...

Goat Gouda-Basil Stuffed Chicken

2007-09-05T19:39:00.000-04:00

Goat Gouda-Basil Stuffed Chicken

Inspired by a recipe from epicurious.com

Ingredients:
4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
1/4 lb. Goat Gouda Cheese, finely grated
2 Scallions, thinly sliced
Fresh Basil, torn
1 egg
1/2 cup Almond flour
2 Tbsp Butter, melted
Sea Salt and Pepper, freshly ground

Method:
Heat oven to 350°. Combine cheese, scallions and basil in a medium bowl; cover and chill.

Use a meat mallet to pound halved chicken breasts between a folded sheet of waxed paper; dry chicken with paper towels.

Spread stuffing mixture onto thin chicken strips and roll them up; tie with string or secure with toothpicks.

Break and beat egg in one shallow bowl, put almond flour in another. Dip rolled chicken in egg, cover in almond flour and place in 8x8" square baking dish. Drizzle with melted butter.

Bake for 35 minutes then broil 6" from flame for 5 minutes until buttery almond flour is light golden brown. Garnish with small leaves of basil.

Local Summer

2007-08-10T18:40:00.000-04:00

Three zucchini, one giant cucumber, and today, a little box of cherry tomatoes cultivated with love and generously presented by my co-workers. Corn (sweet, I'm told), peppers, yellow squash and sour pickle-sized cucumbers from that farm stand on that back road that's difficult to get in and out of ... but worth the inconvenience and actually rejuvenating at the end of a long commute. I get it. Local is in good taste.

Manchego-Chive Scallops

2007-08-02T20:24:00.000-04:00

Manchego-Chive Scallops

Ingredients:
Sea Scallops (2 lb. for 4-6 people)
Lemon
Olive Oil
1 Tbsp Butter, chopped or melted
1 tsp Fresh Chives, minced
2 Scallions, thinly sliced
1/4 cup Manchego Cheese, finely grated
Sea Salt and Pepper, freshly ground

Method:
Stir scallops into a bowl with lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper. While the scallops rest, prepare salad and light lemon dressing.

Combine butter, chives, scallions and cheese in a small mixing bowl.

Spread scallops on broiler pan, broil at 6" from flame for 5 minutes. Cover with cheese and chive mixture and broil for about 5 more minutes, checking and rotating pan at least once. Scallops should be light brown on top and opaque from top to bottom.

Another simple meal for a scorching-hot day.

More On Mint

2007-07-07T16:21:00.000-04:00

In the six months since I posted Worth a Mint, I have been enthusiastically cultivating my appreciation of tea. I have tried many blends and brands of mint; started growing my own peppermint plant; and realized that licorice is SCD-illegal. Bean Mama introduced me to the divine TAZO Decaf Chai and I still drink lots of Yogi Moon Cycle Tea. The best mint I've tried yet is TAZO Refresh. Mmmm.

Incidentally, I have also come to accept black coffee.

If tomorrow is as hot as predicted, I might be persuaded to stir up some Mint Julep, à la Gatsby ... but honey-style. Mmmm mmm.

First Time

2007-07-04T19:42:00.000-04:00

"I must tell you, this hurts my hips," I confessed, laying face-down as instructed. He said, "yes, I can see. They should be--" he carefully pressed them down and to the side "over here. They are twisted."

On Tuesday I saw a Licensed Massage Therapist for the first time. He was recommended by my Mind-Body Energy Therapist when I sang her the achy-leg-blues, so I felt I could let myself relax into capable hands.

I was born with a hip/leg defect that was “corrected” with a DB bar soon after I started walking*; I have had sacroiliac issues since my teens: It is not shocking to hear that my hips are not the epitome of perfect alignment. As he dug at the pain, he pronounced a lot of what has become known to me in recent years: first and second chakras are bound; I have a “low flow” energy system. To remedy these conditions, he carefully coaxed and lengthened a tightly knotted root so that grounding might occur; he reminded me to be aware of the energy that is drawn and expelled from feet firmly planted.

My heels still ache at the end of the day, but I do feel refreshed; legs are loosened, hips are quiet … I am connected and connecting. I must meditate on energetic cleansing and re-charging at the end of every day. It's not called energy work for nothing!

*My sister did not appreciate this treatment, and how it limited my capacity to play. She used to unhook me (and probably got in trouble for doing so)! Ah, always with the best intentions.

Saucy, But Legal

2007-07-01T16:20:00.000-04:00

This Lucini sauce is SCD-legal and divine! From lucini.com: "Lucini Italia does not add water, sugar, concentrated tomato products, dry herbs or anything artificial." I've had some Hearty Artichoke Tomato and look forward to trying the others. In my opinion, this jar is a fine substitute for home-made.

Boswellia

2007-06-21T19:40:00.000-04:00

As I impatiently wait for the Ginger, Turmeric and Vitamin D to cool my aching knees (hips and thighs), I wonder about other concentrated natural treatments for joint and muscle inflammation, specifically Boswellia (Indian Frankincense). 14 of 20 patients in this 2001 NIH study went into remission after receiving "gum resin of Boswellia serrata (900 mg daily divided in three doses for 6 weeks)." There are many other compelling articles and testimonials; I am going to check with my Mind-body therapist to see if she recommends it.

Aubergine

2007-06-18T14:52:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I rediscovered an old, red cloth-bound cookbook entitled The Seasonal Kitchen by Perla Meyers, published 1973. I took this book to a comfortable seat in the sunshine and opened up to the basics of buying (or growing) and using herbs, fruits, vegetables and cheese.

I'm sure I've had eggplant cubed or mashed up in some Italian dish, but I was really interested in frying up some eggplant as described in Meyers's "Eggplant à la Basquaise." So today, I sliced and dried salted eggplant disks for a few hours, then browned them in olive oil. Lightly browned onions, mashed garlic and sliced tomatoes comprise the sauce, seasoned with fresh basil and thyme. I omitted the anchovy portions. The Basque kiss: Manchego cheese and white pepper. Délicieuse!

Eggplant Almost Basquaise

2007-06-18T13:54:00.000-04:00

Eggplant Almost Basquaise

Inspired by a recipe from The Seasonal Kitchen by Perla Meyers

Ingredients:
2 small Eggplants
Olive Oil
1/2 sliced Onion
1 sliced Tomato
3 mashed Garlic Cloves
Chopped fresh Thyme and Basil,
Salt and ground White Pepper
Grated Manchego cheese
Additional minced Garlic + Parsley for garnish if desired

Method:
Slice eggplants to 1/2" disks and lay flat in colander; salt and drain for 1 hour.

Flood bottom of skillet with olive oil and warm to medium heat. Pat eggplant dry with paper towels and arrange flat in heated skillet; brown lightly both sides of the disks.

Remove browned eggplant to a serving dish or two lunch plates. Wipe excess oil and black bits out of pan; add a few more spoons of olive oil.

Return skillet to medium heat and add sliced onion; cook until lightly browned. Add tomatoes, mashed garlic and herbs. Heat until thick.

Drape eggplant with seasoned tomato mixture, sprinkle with white pepper, and grate a generous amount of Manchego right over it.

In Flame

2007-06-15T19:44:00.000-04:00

I return to Nutty Meatfruit after a two month break ... with a juicy, gingery recipe! UC issues are more or less manageable with strict adherence to SCD™ and some nutrient supplementation. Now I am aware of achy legs!

I did some research into anti-inflammatory foods and found that Ginger, Turmeric, and Boswellia (Frankincense) are mentioned pretty consistently. I love Thai and Indian cuisine, so it won't be too difficult to increase my intake. I also started taking Vitamin D again ... I thought I wouldn't need it once summer sunshine hit, but apparently that was ... illogical: the sun alone is inadequate to my need and this year I've been burdened with allergies!

I've precious little Manuka honey left, but I will take my tea with a spoonful-a-day until it is gone!

Ginger Turkey Burgers

2007-06-15T19:24:00.000-04:00

Ginger Turkey Burgers
& Spicy Ginger Dressing

Ingredients:
1 1/3 lb. ground Turkey
1 Egg
¼ cup ground Almonds
½ cup chopped, roasted Pine Nuts
1 Tbsp. fresh minced Garlic
2 finely chopped Green Onions
1 Tbsp. fresh grated Ginger
Sea Salt & Pepper

Dressing:
1/3 cup Grapeseed Oil
1 Tb fresh grated Ginger
Garlic Powder & Cayenne Pepper (Powdered Chili or a splash of hot Pepper Sauce would probably be good, too!)

Method:
Toast pine nuts in skillet at medium-low heat. While pine nuts are toasting, break egg in a medium mixing bowl and add salt, pepper, and ginger.

Add chopped green onion and garlic to pine nuts in skillet—just long enough to warm them. Remove pan from heat.

While skillet cools, prepare salad or blend dressing.

Remove skillet ingredients to the mixing bowl.

Cover bottom of skillet with grapeseed oil, place on burner at medium-high heat.

Add turkey to mixing bowl, use both scrubbed hands to combine fully with other ingredients; form into patties and cook through.

Serve on Boston lettuce with tomatoes, cucumbers, grapes and thinly sliced cheddar.

C-Diff Negative

2007-04-16T18:40:00.000-04:00

Woo hoo! Long time-no blogging due to other obligations; I owe these results:

C-Diff = negative
Vitamin D = lower than it was in November; doubled supplement I.U.
Gram = positive for white blood cells
Gram = (still pending yeast result)

The most dramatic improvement is this ... red blood cell sedimentation rate was 36 on a normal range of 0-20 in November ... now it is only 3!

Because of the positive progress, my SP Candida protocol has been slightly modified to make way for some nutrients to support an over-active parasympathetic nervous system.

C-Diff Retest

2007-03-07T06:57:00.000-05:00

My order has been faxed to the lab, so I'll be heading in some time today. I'm thrilled that it is a blood test (not a stool test) this time! When the nurse called to inform me that the order was faxed, she mentioned that he had ordered a couple of other tests. I'll have to find out what they are, and more importantly, how much they cost. Ironically, the initial IBD panels were not covered by insurance and cost around $1000; those findings were already indicated by colonoscopy. It was the $75 C-Diff blood test that came back positive. Digestive disorder is expensive.

Update:
Additional tests sound standard and appropriate:
- Gram stain for white blood cell count and yeast
- C-reactive protein (high levels of protein in blood indicates acute inflammation)
- Sedimentation rate to measure how quickly red blood cells fall out of blood, another marker for inflammation; very abnormal in November's results
- Vitamin D (was low last year)

Fire Dragon

2007-03-03T14:17:00.000-05:00

I am searching for a good description of the first chakra to elaborate on the Red Aura post. The first chakra is also called base, root, or Muladhara. The dominance of this chakra in my system accounts for issues I have had with Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Ulcerative Colitis. Anyway, I can't resist posting a link to the root chakra page on this questionable Swedish site (fire dragon that I am). I just find it amusing!

My Red Aura

2007-02-28T10:05:00.000-05:00

A rare winter storm is predicted for Friday morning, so I moved the appointment with my Mind-body therapist to tomorrow. I'll be picking up more supplements, and doing some guided EFT.

I may also have the pleasure of seeing my current emotional-energetic state on the small screen, using a biofeedback imaging system. To get this reading, I align my fingers and palm to the little receptor studs on a handplate (box). Points on the hand which make contact with the metal points on the box correspond to the body's energy centers (chakras). The handplate instrument connects by USB to a desktop PC, where biophysical input is converted to a colorful representation of body-mind state. Groovy? Pretty amazing ...

Above-left is an example of "balanced" energy, with each chakra glowing a different color. At right, you'll see what my energy looks like most of the time. That bit of green coming in from the left is something I have worked very hard to achieve. Still, any acupuncturist would say I have too much heat!

Sometimes, music or guided relaxation has brought cooler colors into my spectrum, but it's ... not easy to maintain the calm.

Yogi Do

2007-02-26T14:18:00.000-05:00

Hello,

I love Yogi teas, but have to be extremely careful in avoiding certain ingredients because of my restrictive diet. All grains and sugars are harmful to my health.

I wonder if your "Natural Flavors" are soy-based, or what exactly they are (Morocco Orange Spice, for example, but there are many more that list "Natural Flavors")?

Thanks in advance for your prompt response!

Jasmine

Dear Jasmine:

Thank you for the email. There is no soy in any of the Yogi Teas. These natural flavors have been certified for use the teas. They contain no chemicals and no MSG. They are derived from fruit and nut oils.

Best wishes,

Valerie Crowley
Yogi Tea

Pineapple Pork

2007-02-26T12:04:00.000-05:00

Ingredients:
2 very thick center-cut boneless pork chops
1 cup pineapple chunks
1 cup broccoli florets
1 Chinese single-clove garlic (or several cloves from the bulb)
Grape seed or other neutral oil
Cloves, Cinnamon, Ginger, Sea Salt and Pepper
1/2 cup orange juice and a bit of corn starch if serving on rice

Method:
Brine pork chops overnight ...

Prepare broccoli
Slice up or drain and spice pineapple
Cover bottom of skillet with oil, heat oil
Remove pork from brine and pat dry
Slice pork into very thin strips

Fry batches of pork strips in oil, until slightly browned; remove to paper towels; salt and pepper generously (cool and taste the first batch to determine whether more or less cooking time and/or salt is desired).

Warm broccoli and garlic in the remaining oil
Add pineapple and honey and sautée briefly
Dissolve a teaspoon or so of corn starch in orange juice and add to pan if sauce is desired

Arrange pork strips in shallow bowls, or over Jasmine rice, and cover with broccoli and pineapple mixture.

Local Harvest

2007-02-23T10:25:00.000-05:00

Special thanks to the fabulous MissyZ at food-fan.net for pointing me to localharvest.org. And I thought weekly fruit and veg delivery boxes were only for the privileged few ...

Manuka Honey

2007-02-21T12:04:00.000-05:00

When I learned of the antibacterial/healing quality of honey produced by bees gathering nectar from the Manuka (Tea) tree, I asked a wayward relative to ship me some as he passed through New Zealand. I've just gotten word that two pots await my pickup, just a few miles from here!

Nutrition Data Resource

2007-02-20T13:39:00.000-05:00

With Google at one's fingertips, she needn't wonder about anything for more than about 2.1 minutes. I wonder "are rice products lower in carbohydrates than their wheat counterparts?" and voilà! - NutritionData.com. Looks like wheat alternatives are generally higher on the carb scale. Back in 22 seconds with a site that does side-by-side comparisons.

Demand

2007-02-19T16:42:00.000-05:00

The excessive lead time for an appointment with my Gastroenterologist suggests that an O in Divination might be necessary. Sure, I feel OK now, but I might have trouble in a few months. Better call today! Sigh. Luckily all I need from the office at this point is reception of C.Diff results (sample to be submitted next week). I think I'll keep the June date, though. Just in case ...

Wholy Food

2007-02-14T20:40:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm feeling better and trying to put this little strepisode behind me.

I mused to a fellow Specific Carbohydrate Dieter earlier tonight that once you eliminate processed, over-sugared food from the menu, it's amazing how exquisitely delicious pure, whole foods can be. I would now assert that a sliced banana, drizzled with honey and dotted with crushed walnuts is much more enjoyable than a slice of cake!

This excerpt from Our Bodies (see #3) mentions SCD™ as an example of a healthy diet. Good stuff.

The A-List

2007-02-12T13:07:00.000-05:00

For certain, I have Group A strep. I've been given a prescription for penicillin (7 days) and advised to double up on the LactEnz. I will have to wait an additional week (at least) before retesting for C.Diff. Bear with me, flora.

Bon Biotics

2007-02-12T09:15:00.000-05:00

Searching for what to do if you have just ended a course of Flagyl for C.Diff but may need to take a general antibiotic for another bacterial infection ... maybe recurrence could be avoided if I boost up the probiotics at the same time.

Let's just say my sore throat hasn't improved, and the ear-nose-throat invasion took me down on Saturday. I'll be seeing my doctor in a short while.

Come on immune system! You can do it!

In the meantime, some case studies about C.Diff recurrence would be useful, and not needing an antibiotic would be ideal (talking to you, universe).

I.S.O Legal Sore Throat Remedy

2007-02-09T12:47:00.000-05:00

I drank Echinacea tea from last Friday to today; I think it held off a big cold, but now I have a sore throat. The remedy must be sugar-free, corn-syrup-free, malt-free, etc. Cold-Eez might be a contender. I'll see what I can find.

Update:
Chloraseptic spray (or generic equivalent) appears to be SCD™ legal ... "flavor" is the only questionable ingredient, but since it's sprayed on and not consumed in large quantities, it might be OK. I am extremely sensitive to sugar, but I did not react to 3 squirts of this stuff. It's not miraculously effective, but every little bit helps.

Five In a Row

2007-02-07T08:47:00.000-05:00

Five days since starting the Standard Process Candida protocol, I am symptom-free and feeling great.

I've gotten up for my early morning Qi Gong each day and been able to skip the obligatory and horrible bathroom session formerly required before and/or after. I no longer need supplemental fiber to reduce frequency. I move from stretching and meditation right along to breakfast or shower without needing a long rest on the couch. For all the deep breathing I did before this (and I did!), I now feel like oxygen is actually reaching all my organs; like energy is truly flowing!

I'm eating well, no deviation from the diet; drinking lots of tea (Echinacea is the flavor du jour).

This natural cleanse-and-heal treatment definitely shows promise!

It's Supplemental

2007-02-05T07:32:00.000-05:00

I needed a container with 9 sections to store one day's vitamin supply, but since most pillboxes are segmented by multiples of 2 or 7, I spent Sunday creating this little box. I also took some time to get into a routine with the Standard Process supplements. Here's my schedule:

Before meal:
10 drops of Phosfood; 2 Zymex; 2 Gastrex; 2 Spanish Black Radish
During meal:
1 CalAmo, 1 LactEnz, 1 OkraPepsin E3, 1 Dessicated Adrenal
After meal:
2 Zypan

These concentrated foods couple with SCD to form a Candida protocol. I already feel like I have more energy. I suppose it does take some effort, but I am so accustomed to extra concentration around mealtime; it's hardly a bother.

Today is my last day of Flagyl - two weeks until I can retest.

Treatment Timeline

2007-02-03T20:07:00.000-05:00

Updated 21 June 2007
Dianosed IBS: 1-06
Gluten-Free: 1-06
Initial GE appointment: 10-30-06
Stool submission: 11-06-06
Blood submission: 11-08-06
Bacterial infection identification: 11-13-06
Colonoscopy + initial diagnosis: 11-16-06
Flagyl course: 11-17-06 through 12-04-06
(no retest)
Flagyl course: 1-05-07 through 2-05-07
(retest for C.Diff 2-19-07)

Strict Specific Carbohydrate Diet: 1-20-07 - present
Standard Process Candida Protocol: 2-03-07 - 6-04-07

Mind-Body Therapy

2007-02-02T18:03:00.000-05:00

At my appointment, I asked "what do I call you?", looking for a title or description. I call her "healer" in the previous post, but she has so many degrees (M.A.C.P., R.N., C.S., EFT-ADV., and such an extensive and diverse professional background, I feel like "healer" somehow diminishes or improperly defines the depth of her ability.

She answered "[firstname]." Then she said, "I usually tell people I am a nurse psychotherapist with advanced training in mind-body medicine." Mind-body therapist works for me.

I am not sure why I didn't ask for a label years ago; it will make explaining the importance of her work to people completely unfamiliar with alternative treatments much easier.

That hour was fabulous, but I drove hundreds of miles today ... more detail after I rest.

Like Chocolate

2007-02-02T09:04:00.000-05:00

I have a real edge-of-something-wonderful feeling this morning as I head out to my appointment with the healer. She said that I could pick up my supplements at 10 and that she would give me some instructions to feel not-so-crazy while I am there. At the end of a super-eventful week, those words are like chocolate.

Worth a Mint

2007-01-30T19:25:00.001-05:00

Black coffee has all but lost its appeal. My relationship with it is now strictly as-needed--just a shadow of the former desperate dependency.

Ingredients often associated with soothing intestinal discomfort are ginger, licorice, mint, and fennel - when I found this out, I quickly took up a tea habit. Now I drink several cups of herbal or decaf Chai daily. A spicy blend is great in the morning; daisies like echinacea and chamomile are enjoyed occasionally; lemon-ginger is a good post-lunch pick-me-up. Ingredients to avoid for SCD-compliance: natural flavor (often soy-based) and barley malt. Malt is sometimes hidden.

My favorite all-occasion tea is mint. There must be hundreds of different brands and blends - I have only tried a few: Lipton (very good!), Yogi (Organic Mint - they have other mints I want to sample, like Egyptian Licorice), Stash (peppermint and cascade mint); but there are so many yet to try, and they're so easy to ~~obsessively stockpile~~ acquire.

Cardamom-Fig Chicken

2007-01-28T19:58:00.000-05:00

Cardamom-Fig Chicken

Ingredients:
5-6 boneless chicken thighs
4 chopped garlic cloves
4 chopped dried figs
2 Tbsp honey
2 Tbsp olive and/or sesame oil
1/2 tsp or more cardamom
1/2 tsp or less ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp or less ground clove
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp or less pepper
1/2 cup warm water

Method:
Chop chicken thighs into bite-size pieces; mix all other ingredients in a plastic bag or reusable plastic container. Add chicken to marinade mix; seal and refrigerate for 1-2 hours. Bake in covered dish at 375° for 40 minutes. Serve over mashed butternut squash [rice or quinoa if your diet allows] and some fresh sliced pear.

To Be Perfectly Candida

2007-01-28T12:46:00.000-05:00

When I went to the Energy Center for my initial assessment on Friday, I did an arm extension muscle test. This technique allows the tester to identify areas of illness or weakness by pressing to guage the resistance of the outstretched arm while barely touching other areas of the body.

There seemed to be varying amounts of weakness in all four quadrants of my abdomen, but when she touched my bellybutton, my arm just dropped. That, she said, indicates a serious sugar problem.

I trust this practitioner completely; I have known her for years. We had a great 1.5 hour session, and I made an appointment to return to the Center this Thursday to pick up the set of 9 Standard Process Supplements prescribed for my particular imbalances. The foods will cleanse and heal from liver to colon and way beyond. And, it takes as long as it takes.

Evidently my insides are highly alkaline, so I was urged to take home a bottle of Phosfood® to balance pH and better metabolize the concentrated foods in the Supplements when I get them.

In related news ... I will be finishing the Flagyl around the same time I start this natural protocol; I look forward to this transition!

Die-(off), Yeast! (Updated)

2007-01-28T09:00:00.000-05:00

More information about my innards was revealed at the last GE appointment. One interesting find is an apparent Candida overgrowth. I wasn't warned of a die-off period, but I guess it has to go somewhere, and it doesn't go easily. This (in addition to the hidden sugars) could also explain the recent return of symptoms since starting Nystatin.

Update:
I was right. I was informed by another healer that Nystatin kills fungus at breakneck speed, but provides no mechanism for the corpses to leave the system. The result is a feeling of toxicity in the liver. Yuck. I stopped Nystatin on 23 Jan (original post above).

A Remarkable Salmon

2007-01-24T08:20:00.000-05:00

Dinner would not have been remarkable, but for the pleasant experience I had buying the ingredients. Like the passionate Provençale vendors brought to life in Peter Mayle's books, the seafood counter attendant clearly takes his job very seriously. I wanted a pound and a half of salmon filet. A little over is fine. I like the tail-end. "You don't want any of these," he gestures to the merely adequate cuts in the case before him. "I will go to to the back and get you a bigger piece."

He came back, holding the fish proudly. He'd cut it special. "This looks good, ma'am. A very nice piece of salmon."

1.35 lb. Too small. "I will go back and cut another," he muttered, and slunk back through the plastic curtain.

Again, he tenderly places his cut of fish on the scale. It is 1.46 lb. This will not do. He seems shaken. "Usually I get it perfect the first time!"

He returns. "You know what it is? Those fish were all too small! I opened another box, these fish were much bigger!" Indeed, the fish had great color and texture, and weighed in at a perfect 1.65 lb. He thanked me profusely for my patience; I smiled, and thanked him for his diligence.

The fish was baked for 20 minutes at 400°, and then broiled for 5, with a simple 60/40 honey-mustard glaze and black pepper. It was delicious.

Maltodextrin

2007-01-22T15:44:00.000-05:00

I am fairly certain that it is this polysaccharide, not the good bacteria in VSL, that is irritating me. It's better since I mix the stuff with applesauce, instead of Activia (which unfortunately contains sugar and corn starch); but I ate 100% by the book yesterday, and today I have been ... gastrically unhappy, again.

A Clinical Herbalist I know says that she has had good experience with FloraSmart and UltimateFlora. These Renew Life products have only a fraction of the 450 billion bacteria boasted by VSL#3, but perhaps that is enough. Looking into their inactives and additives.

Orange Vinaigrette

2007-01-20T18:42:00.000-05:00

Orange Vinaigrette

Diced ripe mango
1/3 cup grated carrot
1 Tbsp ginger
1/3 cup canola oil
1 Tbsp sesame oil
2 Tbsp white vinegar
1/4 cup honey
Pinch of salt

This syrupy dressing, drizzled over cherry tomatoes; Boston and green leaf lettuce; cucumbers; and green and red onions; brings a sweet rainbow to Winter.

I'm in Trouble Now

2007-01-18T13:09:00.000-05:00

No sooner had the nectar post left my fingertips ...

SC Dieters, look away!

I'd take this for pain relief over fish oil, anyday.

A LïghterBar

2007-01-18T11:39:00.000-05:00

You know I love LÄRABAR. The texture of Clif® nectar™ is a bit lighter but still sweet and delicious.

100% Organic. No added sugar. "We source ingredients which do not contain soy, wheat, gluten or dairy, and are not genetically engineered."

Update:
Some of these bars contain juice concentrate. Ich.

Getting Started

2007-01-17T08:54:00.000-05:00

GETTING STARTED with SCD™

When another woman in my family was diagnosed with dysbiosis and her doctor recommended SCD, I pulled together these tips* and sent along a care package to help with the first few days.

My initial reaction to SCD is not uncommon; it's depressing when all you hear is "no, no, no - you can't have—" But soon, your body will say "yes," (or maybe "thank you") and life will start to balance.

THINK:
Natural. Simple. Fresh. You may need to shop more frequently to maintain these qualities in your new diet.

SHOP NOW:
Eggs
Block cheese (if Dairy is OK)
1.5 lb. Ground beef
3 lb. Boneless chicken breast
Almonds
Pecans
Walnuts
Mint or herbal tea
Olive oil
Red or white vinegar (not balsamic)
LÄRABAR (pecan, cashew, cherry, ginger) or Date rolls
Apples or apple sauce
Blue-, straw- and raspberries
Green onions
Lettuce
Tomato
Snap peas
Carrots
Broccoli

PREPARE YOUR FOOD
Take a day or a weekend to toss together some salad with grilled chicken and sautéed chicken and vegetables. Hamburgers can be fried up when you need protein but nuts aren't doing the trick. Apples are juicy pick-me-ups. Berries are good with your breakfast eggs, as are LÄRABAR or date rolls.

The shopping list above will provide you with something to eat for the next few days, as you do your research and accept the reality that you are about to feel much better.

PREPARE YOURSELF
Start with Breaking the Vicious Cycle; the book and the Web site. The links in the header of my site provide easy access to alphabetical groupings of Legal/Illegal foods. Then check out all of the great links at SCDiet.org and SCDRecipe.com.

Take your time to decide whether you want to do homemade yogurt, DCCC, and almond flour baking. Feel better soon!

*Tips are based on what worked for me and, like everything else in this blog, should not be construed as medical advice. Every individual's needs and tolerances are different. If your doctor has recommended compulsory adherence to SCD, you should review Elaine's Introductory Diet.

One Long Day

2007-01-15T15:34:00.000-05:00

Just when I thought I was safe ... from 6PM Saturday through 10PM Sunday I was either on my back, or in the bathroom. I didn't ingest much more than water and a Tylenol or two; back on the antibiotic and simple food program today. Blech.

Good Health

2007-01-10T19:18:00.000-05:00

"People in good health usually don’t get C. difficile disease."

Think it's time for the CDC to update their listing for this one?

More of the Same

2007-01-04T17:45:00.000-05:00

Doctor orders 4 weeks of Flagyl and (1) VSL + (2) Fibercon daily.

Frowny Food

2007-01-04T12:58:00.000-05:00

What to eat when you just don't want to? Eggs. Blueberries. Apple. Almonds. Honeydew melon. Tea. I secretly want potatoes, rice, GF bread or cookies, but I know that that much sugar is too much. Didn't sleep well; very crampy through the night, up at 3. I feel like my right side is going to burst.

What's Next?

2007-01-03T16:29:00.000-05:00

I called my doctor when I realized it's been a month since I finished that antibiotic, and I am not feeling better--on the contrary, steadily worse. The nurse promised to check with the doctor whether my suggestion to try another course of Flagyl before re-testing was a feasible one.

Right after I hung up the phone, I went out. A half hour into my errands, I was absolutely doubled by a sudden flare-up. I finished my list slowly, then got myself home and sat down with a yogurt and some peppermint tea (after a couple of trips to the bathroom, of course). I'm still very crampy, but upright at least - funny how simply "upright" is almost an acceptable state of being these days.

The Right Question

2007-01-03T09:58:00.000-05:00

Nancy L. Logan, MA, an individual associated with Baylor University's 2005-2006 C-Diff studies, shared results with a C-Diff-infected individual in Connecticut. The individual's blog comment relays the study's findings as described in email by Logan:

"A drug called Nitazoxanide has proven to be more effective than vanco or metronidazole. It has been used previously, and world-wide, to treat pediatric patients for Giardia (a bug that is, as it were, child's play when compared to this new strain of c-diff)."

Read about study NCT00304408 on clinicaltrials.gov.

C-Diff Prevention

2007-01-03T09:47:00.000-05:00

Alcohol-gel hand sanitizers do not kill C. diff, according to MedicineNet.com (this one might!) ...

... however, these smell delicious and they moisturize, too.

Pink Skies

2007-01-03T09:17:00.000-05:00

VSL at night, UC delight;
VSL in morning, UC take warning!

I don't think my empty gut can handle a probiotic invasion - so PM dosage is preferable - when I don't take it at all ... total relapse. Not sure if I need it every night; looking for the happy interval.

I'm reading more about medication negatives, for both UC and C-Diff, but it's hard to find current articles on either topic. Here's one about the New C-Diff Bug.

"As it happens, [Fred Arthur Zar, MD] had been studying the best way to treat C. diff infection when the current epidemic broke out. In a clinical trial, he's been comparing the currently recommended treatment for C. diff -- the antimicrobial drug Flagyl -- with a powerful antibiotic called vancomycin.

Vancomycin is known to work against C. diff. But doctors have been reluctant to use it -- not only because it costs more, but also because it's the last line of defense against a number of other nasty infections. Once it's in common use, it's only a matter of time before many of these germs become vancomycin resistant."

Current epidemic?

Maybe

2006-12-30T19:48:00.000-05:00

Maybe some VSL would help. Just mixed some with a strawberry Activia.

Good Grainy!

2006-12-27T19:09:00.000-05:00

Pamela's bread IS amazing (and the brownies are irresistible).

Jinxed

2006-12-27T18:47:00.000-05:00

When I say I feel better, I always get worse. Right-side cramps and a little blood through the night. Sigh.

This Cooking Free cookbook looks worth checking out - see celiac.com's review. I really just need to get back on the SCD train. Will someone please eat all these cookies?!

Christmas Is Over

2006-12-26T16:49:00.000-05:00

I let myself taste lots of foods I haven't touched since ... well ... last Christmas. I think it's normal to feel a bit bloated after a heavy meal and countless bites of pie and cookies (oh, plus chocolate, candy, baklava ... I was looking for trouble!). I was supposed to retest for C-Diff last week but decided to save that joy for after the bustle of the holidays, so I'm looking now to mid-January or early February. Who can blame me for procrastinating?

Speed Bump

2006-12-10T16:37:00.000-05:00

Woke up with a bathroom flashback this morning. Feeling steadily worse since my Bloating on VSL#3 post, so I'm going back on strict SCD until symptoms calm down. I probably just re-introduced an element or two more quickly than my body could handle.

Bloating on VSL#3

2006-12-06T17:16:00.000-05:00

It could be flu (what else to suspect this time of year?), but I experienced some serious bloating and nausea after VSL#3/Activia yogurt snack this morning. The last word from my doctor was to continue with the VSL 1x/day for 5 days after the end of the antibiotic. I have taken it at night with no issue; today is the first notable adverse reaction. VSL3.com says that bloating is normal ... in the beginning.

Off to find a good banana and almond flour muffin/bread recipe ...

One Month Later

2006-12-04T16:46:00.000-05:00

Things are looking up! I have completed my course of Flagyl and will continue on the VSL#3 until it is gone (would be a waste not to). I've had some successful grain experiments and even wheat experiments. Did I already say "wish I'd known sooner"? I will re-test for C-Diff during the week of 18 December.

T-4 days

2006-11-29T08:16:00.000-05:00

... to the last Flagyl! I am feeling better, but not 100%, so still cautious with "normal" foods. Starting 800units 2x/day vitamin D and one B50/day, as recommended by my doctor.

A Weekend Off

2006-11-20T10:49:00.000-05:00

No posts over the weekend due to network outage and general pre-holiday business. I am feeling all right on my fourth day of Flagyl; going to stop tracking food intake so closely.

Unbreaded Chicken Parm

2006-11-20T10:43:00.000-05:00

Ingredients:
Chicken breast
½ cup pasta sauce
½ cup cheese
Tomato slices to cover chicken
Basil, oregano, garlic powder

Method:
Heat oven to 375°
In skillet, heat chicken through
Place chicken in casserole or baking dish
Cover chicken with pasta sauce, cheese, tomatoes, cheese, and herbs
Cover and bake for 15 minutes
Uncover and bake for 5 minutes
Broil if browning is desired

On 17 Nov, I ate.

2006-11-17T14:23:00.000-05:00

Breakfast:
Applesauce

Lunch:
Tuna & ¼ apple

Snack:
Activia yogurt
2 eggs and 1 Jones All Natural sausage

Dinner:
Tilapia & salad

After-dinner:
Peppermint tea & LÄRABAR

VSL#3 Alternative

2006-11-16T16:48:00.000-05:00

My doctor did say a probiotic yogurt such as Dannon™'s Activia™ would do the trick. More cost-effective, but not SCD-compliant. Since he hasn't given a definitive diet order, I might just check it out.

Scoped!

2006-11-16T16:22:00.000-05:00

Now that I have awakened from my post-procedure nap, I will be researching these terms:

- Colitis
- Brunner gland hyperplasia
- C.Difficile toxin positive

The blood results should arrive in about a week, enabling my doctor to deliver a comprehensive analysis. I'll find out whether this condition is caused by food, or just irritated by it. In the meantime, Flagyl 4x/day and VSL#3® 1x/day for a week, then 2x/week thereafter.

Prep Step Three

2006-11-15T17:01:00.000-05:00

a.k.a. On 15 Nov, I ate.

I imagine the worst is over. I've had a cup of Imagine Organic Vegetable Broth (I meant to grab Chicken flavor but this isn't so bad). It's not transparent, but hopefully clear enough!

Going to have some tea now.

Prep Step Two

2006-11-15T14:53:00.000-05:00

First 8 oz. at 12. Nauseous on the bathroom floor by 12:08. In bed at 12:10, taking 8oz. approximately every 15 minutes. Fluid is all drunk by 2. I am extremely bloated, but better than I was at 12:08.

Prep Step One

2006-11-15T11:06:00.000-05:00

Had some coffee, an egg and a few blueberries for breakfast. Took care of last minute work ... I know they can and do survive without me, but alas, such is my obsessive sense of responsibility.

Bathroom is sparkling, an apple candle is lit. If I'm going to be spending some time, it has to be clean! 4 candy-like Bisacodyl tablets down the hatch at 10am. Now, an hour later, I am starting to cramp up. Waiting to drink that delicious cherry drink; I hear it's divine.

Florentine Meatloaf

2006-11-15T07:26:00.000-05:00

Florentine Meatloaf

Ingredients:
1.5 lb. lean ground beef
1 cup fresh spinach
Onion
3 cloves garlic
2 eggs
1 Tbsp olive oil
Parmesan cheese
Tomato
Mozarella cheese
Oregano
Basil

Method:
Heat oven to 375°
Mince onion & garlic; warm in olive oil in skillet; add spinach
In a large mixing bowl break eggs, add parmesan cheese and herbs
Combine beef; salt and pepper; add spinach mixture
Shape the meatloaf into a ball, then pat into the center of a pie dish
Pack to about 1 1/2" thick; cook for 30 minutes
Slice 4-6 tomato rounds; grate mozarella cheese
Remove meatloaf from oven; top with tomato and cheese
Cook 15 more minutes and serve with salad (dress with oil & parmesan)

On 14 Nov, I ate.

2006-11-15T07:22:00.000-05:00

Breakfast:
Apple and cashews

Lunch:
Tuna salad on lettuce

Snack:
Cashews
HONEST TEA® Kashmiri Chai
LÄRABAR

Dinner:
Florentine Meatloaf + salad

After-dinner:
Peppermint tea

On 13 Nov, I ate.

2006-11-13T18:52:00.000-05:00

Breakfast:
2 eggs + 2 date rolls + 2 strawberries

Snack:
Pecans

Lunch:
Tuna on lettuce with olive oil + pickle

Snack:
Apple + LÄRABAR

Dinner:
Rosemary chicken and green beans

After-dinner:
Peppermint tea
Walnuts

Nutty Meatfruit

Five Years

Crohn's After All

NOT Ulcerative Colitis?

Back to Basics

No Heat!

Winter Heat

Jinxy

Nut-free Meatfruit

SCD, Nut-free

Cross Reactions

No, Nutty, No Soy.

Sixy Baby

Roasted Toasted Spring Chicken

Roasted Toasted Spring Chicken

No News

Nuts!

Bless the Pollinators

Layer Cake

Simple Swordfish

Simple Swordfish

Cat-free!

Glow-tini

Eight Legged Dream

The Good News

Most Useful

Savory SCD Meatloaf

Savory SCD Meatloaf

Testing 2008

Pentasabbatical

Happy Birthday Nutty Meatfruit

Sugar-free Grain-free SCD Birthday Cake

Spicy Mead+fruit

Out with Bob, In with Joe

Cool Change

Nut-fruit Spice Muffins

Nut-fruit Spice Muffins

7 Month Followup

Goat Gouda-Basil Stuffed Chicken

Goat Gouda-Basil Stuffed Chicken

Local Summer

Manchego-Chive Scallops

Manchego-Chive Scallops

More On Mint

First Time

Saucy, But Legal

Boswellia

Aubergine

Eggplant Almost Basquaise

Eggplant Almost Basquaise

In Flame

Ginger Turkey Burgers

Ginger Turkey Burgers& Spicy Ginger Dressing

C-Diff Negative

C-Diff Retest

Fire Dragon

My Red Aura

Yogi Do

Pineapple Pork

Local Harvest

Manuka Honey

Nutrition Data Resource

Demand

Wholy Food

The A-List

Bon Biotics

I.S.O Legal Sore Throat Remedy

Five In a Row

It's Supplemental

Treatment Timeline

Mind-Body Therapy

Like Chocolate

Worth a Mint

Cardamom-Fig Chicken

Cardamom-Fig Chicken

To Be Perfectly Candida

Die-(off), Yeast! (Updated)

A Remarkable Salmon

Maltodextrin

Orange Vinaigrette

Ginger Turkey Burgers
& Spicy Ginger Dressing