With regards to what is happening in Japan, here is some sensible advice from Dr Elson Haas, MD: “While none of us really knows exactly what we are facing or what will truly protect us from radiation exposure, we can offer a few suggestions here. We encourage people to eat seaweed and miso soup, which may offer some protection and nourishment. Also, liquid trace minerals to help protect us and detox from heavy metals. Herbal adaptogens such as ginseng, especially Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), schizandra and ashwaganda may be protective as is milk thistle (silymarin), which supports liver detoxification. Also, the antioxidant nutrients that include vitamins A, C and E, as well as zinc and selenium may provide further protection.” Dr Haas also shares this important point: “Please realize that none of this is necessary at this time since we (here in California) are not being exposed directly to the problems occurring currently in Japan. If concerns about radiation levels increase in Japan, you are closer to the fallout, or we are finding increased levels here, we may need to become more proactive.”
While none of this is necessary (right now) when it come to the radiation in Japan, the above suggestions are really things you should consider always – to offer you protection from all heavy metals, environmental pollutants and toxins. We are exposed on a daily basis! And also consider the above suggestions if you fly a lot. You are exposed to radiation during flying. Whenever I’m doing a trip somewhere I eat plenty of miso before and afterwards. And make sure your detoxification pathways are working well by doing a detox a few times a year.
Eating real whole food will, of course, provide you with an abundance of minerals and antioxidants. Include are garlic and onions (high in sulfur) and veggies like broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cabbage. Here is some additional information on miso and seaweed…
Seaweed is naturally rich in minerals, including iodine, iron, and magnesium. Try adding dulse or kelp to soups and stews. Nori is the seaweed used in sushi and is a great snack!
Miso is a fermented soybean paste. You can also find miso made from rice, barley, and other beans if soy is an issue for you. Just make sure it’s organic and raw. And don’t heat miso, as this destroys its beneficial properties. Mix about 1 tablespoon into some water and add it to your food, such as a bowl of soup or stew, just before serving. It’s also great as a warm beverage.
This Japanese event is awful beyond words – doing a blog this week just didn’t feel right – but we need to take care of ourselves and our families, give thanks for what we have, don’t panic, do what we can to help in the way of donations, and send our blessings to the Japanese people.
Trudy, should we stop eating fish and seaweed from the Pacific Ocean because of the nuclear issues in Japan?
Laura
I’m pretty sure this is going to have to be something to watch and there is a big possibility it will be an issue, especially with items from Japan itself. Time will tell how far-reaching the impacts may be.
Trudy
Trudy,
Thank you so much. I can always rely on you to bring up to date information on health and wellness.
Kiyla Fenell
Trudy,
Great advice as always.
Dr. Robert Fenell
Trudy,
Thank you for more great advice.
Mitch
Thank you Trudi for once again thinking of our health and particularly at this special time in our worldly sequence of events.
Lynn
Such wonderful advice, Trudy. I’ve always loved miso – now I know why. Yes, my heart breaks for Japan. I visited the country a few years ago – it’s a gorgeous country that will always have a place in my heart.
yes, I love miso too. I have travelled the world but have not been to Japan and my heart goes out to them right now
Trudy,
Food can have such a cleansing effect on the body! Thanks for continuing to emphasize the importance of making conscious choices about the food we eat…
~ Carmen
Trudy, thanks for all the work you do. You always have great, simple to implement advice. ~Debbie
Hooray for miso and seaweed (two of my favorite things) and hooray for YOU – thank you for your willingness to always share!
Hooray for you Barbara…having miso and seaweed as some of your favorites! Lovely to see you here visiting my blog – hope to see you at Toastmasters soon
Trudy
You are advising people to eat nori, but most of that is imported from japan. Is it safe, or a possible sourse of radioactive iodine ?
Hi Mark
I highly suspect that imported Japanese nori (and other seaweed and foods from Japan) are likely to be contaminated. This is so unfortunate.
Trudy