Seize The Day Blog

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Epilepsy Insight #12: Calendars & Journals

 

It has been my own personal experience that keeping track is key for any medical condition, particularly epilepsy. I place an extra emphasis upon epilepsy because this action will allow you to discover patterns in your seizure activity. It will also help to document those little details that are easy to forget over long periods of time but can be incredibly beneficial later on down the road (whether you realize it or not in the moment). It is because of my dad and his habit of keeping track of my seizure occurrences in relation to my periods each month that we were able to discover the monumental role hormones were playing in my condition. It prompted our extensive research on hormones in relation to seizures and helped us to discover the newly established condition called Catamenial Epilepsy. Nowadays, you can find plenty of info on this type of epilepsy, but back in 2009, the internet was scarce for even the tiniest mention of it! Only in scholarly journals or medical journals could you find a teeny tiny reference to hormone-related seizures.

I keep track of my seizures, diet, supplement & medication regimen, when new products are added to my daily regimen as well as when they are removed, and any noteworthy details that I think could be useful in the future. Sometimes when I’m recording details I think to myself, “I’m not exactly sure how this might be helpful, but I’m going to write it down anyway because you never know.” I cannot tell you how many times I have been so grateful to my self down the road that I did record what felt like menial details. These supposedly “menial” details are usually the most helpful in identifying exactly how my body was feeling at that specific time. Most importantly, this habit of writing everything down has helped me to reduce seizure activity on many occasions in the past and I am more confident than ever that it will continue to do this for me in the future.

When it comes to my own keeping track, I prefer the yearly planners that have block calendars in the front and note areas in the back where I can record extra details. A small notebook in addition to the block calendar is also helpful when recording daily meals & notes. This way you’ll have plenty of room for whatever information you choose to record.

Check out my video below for the full details on the subject as well as my article, Calendars & Journals, here on the blog.

 

 

 

Medical Disclaimer:

The information posted on Seize the Day Blog, including but not limited to, articles, images, recipes, text, and other material are shared for informational purposes only. None of the writings should be looked upon as advice meant to replace that of an actual medical professional. If you suspect you have a serious medical condition you should seek help from a healthcare professional immediately. Please be aware that the author of this website is posting information simply to inform NOT to recommend others about health-related topics. Before following any information (i.e. undertaking a new healthcare or diet routine) found here on Seize the Day Blog, you should always consult a medical professional first. Please be sure to never disregard any medicinal advice because of something you have read on this website.

Epilepsy Insight #11: Three Tips for Epileptics

 

What if? Apart, these two words are harmless but put ‘em together and you may just find yourself confronted with a dangerous task…self-reflection.

Looking back on the past is often avoided by people (myself included) because it can be painful, both emotionally and psychologically. We are reminded of our mistakes and even more so of the fact that we can’t change any of it.

So often, I look back over my journey with epilepsy and I wonder, “Where would I be today if I had only done “this” differently or avoided “that” completely instead of diving in so willingly like I had in the past?” I get completely caught up in the “what if’s?” of life and do you know what this does for me??  Absolutely nothing. I do not benefit from focusing on what I should have done in the past nor what I need to be doing in the future. Here’s the thing about the past, what’s done is done. I cannot change past events, but I can reflect upon my mistakes and hopefully apply all that I have learned to the person I am right here, right now.

I read once that we as humans shouldn’t try to complete our knowledge about life, but instead, we should be lifetime learners so that every moment of life is an opportunity for growth.

In order to fully embrace those opportunities today, we must take our focus off of what we wish we had done but didn’t as well as what we wish we could be doing if only “this, that, and the other thing” would work out in our favor. Instead, we need to shift our focus to today. What is it that you should be doing right now?

We yearn to be successful in all that we do, yet too often we simultaneously get ahead of ourselves AND hold ourselves back because our focus is misplaced. At the end of the day, God already has a perfect plan for your life so there really isn’t a need to obsess about planning the perfect future. By letting go of you and embracing Him you can begin to shift your focus on how you can fulfill His will. Bend your plans to match His by looking for His guidance each day and following His direction as you receive it one step at a time. More importantly, one day at a time. Trust me when I say that it is impossible to try and bend God’s will to fit your plans. Obsessing over the past and the future only distract you from God’s guidance, making it difficult to know exactly which step is the right one.

The truth is, I find myself in the boat of distraction more often than I’d care to admit, but that’s the point! We all mess up, but God always takes us back. It is easy to lose focus on the present. Living with epilepsy has prompted me to wonder how different my life would be if only I had been able to change certain decisions in my past. I know from personal experience that the choice to wander through the maze of past mistakes only leads me further away from Him. Luckily, God always rescues me by providing me with His map of guidance. He has taught me a lot about how to live with epilepsy. The temptation to ponder the notion of “what if?” will always be there, but thanks to God I feel better equipped to handle such a question…

The reality is, I am exactly where I am supposed to be according to God’s will so there is no need to wonder about the past. Okay, confession time…My greatest wish in my past is that there was more information on the subject of Catamenial Epilepsy when I desperately needed to know how to live with such a condition when I was first diagnosed.

Epilepsy Insight #11 is inspired by this wish. I may not be able to change my past, but I’m hoping I can change someone else’s present (and eventually future) by sharing 3 simple tips I have learned while living with Catamenial Epilepsy for the past 11 years. Watch the video below to learn more!

If you have any questions or comments regarding the information I shared, please feel free to contact me via email (katie@seizethedayblog.com) or Instagram (@seizethedayblog). Thank you!

 

 

 

Medical Disclaimer:

The information posted on Seize the Day Blog, including but not limited to, articles, images, recipes, text, and other material are shared for informational purposes only. None of the writings should be looked upon as advice meant to replace that of an actual medical professional. If you suspect you have a serious medical condition you should seek help from a healthcare professional immediately. Please be aware that the author of this website is posting information simply to inform NOT to recommend others about health-related topics. Before following any information (i.e. undertaking a new healthcare or diet routine) found here on Seize the Day Blog, you should always consult a medical professional first. Please be sure to never disregard any medicinal advice because of something you have read on this website.

 

Crustless Bacon Quiche (Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free)

Let’s face it, there is no easy way to remove both gluten and dairy from your diet. It can be really tough to find good recipes that you actually look forward to eating instead of choking down some irregular meal for the sake of your body’s health. You can’t starve to death! That obviously isn’t going to help improve your current circumstances one bit! So, to preserve one’s own life it is common to returning to old eating habits despite your desire to improve your diet. There is also the scenario where removing these ingredients isn’t a choice for you, it’s a requirement do to allergies or health issues. But how do you successfully take what appears to be only a diet change and turn it into a beneficial lifestyle change? You get some darn good recipes first and you tackle your challenge second. This is one of those meals that I have found to be a wonderful breakfast, lunch, or dinner option and it is super easy!

I love making this quiche at the beginning of the week and slicing it up throughout the week for lunch. Reheating one individual slice each day makes lunch quick and easy, but yummy and healthy all at the same time! It’s a win-win! The best part about a quiche is that you can change the ingredients to fit your taste as well. This is a great way to mix up your meals throughout the week just in case you get tired of eating the same thing over and over again. It happens easily, trust me I know!

I hope this recipe will make it easier for you to successfully keep with your diet restrictions no matter the motivation behind your lifestyle choice. I love pairing a piece of zucchini bread along with it to provide a bit more solidarity to my lunch. We want to eat healthy, we don’t want to starve!

Enjoy!

 

Homemade Peach Tea (Sugar-Free)

It’s 93 degrees in SoCal right now, the sun is shining and I’m craving some summer!!! Unfortunately, June is still a month away so I’m settling for the next best thing…

Homemade Peach Tea!!! I really love to experiment with beverages when it gets super hot outside and this year is no exception. I have a soft spot for herbal tea, especially chamomile tea and it got me thinking one day…How would this chamomile tea (that I normally drink hot) taste on ice?? I was hoping for a refreshing beverage and that is exactly what I got! I love love love this tea cold! But I didn’t stop there…

First, I have a question for you. What is the best thing to do with an overripe peach that smells amazing and would probably taste amazing too, but has a mushy texture that would be pretty gag-worthy if you tried to eat it??? You cut that sucker up and stick those pretty little slices in the freezer! Don’t let that sweet peach flavor go to waste! If it isn’t moldy, it doesn’t need to go in the trash can just yet. Get the most from your overripe peaches and add them to your iced chamomile tea! Plus, the overripe sweetness is going to remedy the lack of sugar that typical peach teas tend to have. I used to love the Bellini Peach Tea at the Olive Garden up until I found out they used syrups for both the peach flavor and the sugar. This option here on Seize the Day Blog is much healthier and still just as refreshing! It makes me feel like it’s summertime during those times that I just do not have the patience to wait for the official start date of the season.

I usually add 2-3 peaches to the bottom of my glass, add lots of ice cubes, and then I fill the glass with chilled chamomile tea. Drinking the Peach Tea with a straw works best so that you can continually stir the peach and chamomile flavors together. I also like to poke at the peaches (which will thaw pretty quickly) to release even more delicious peach flavor! Lots of mixing is the best way to get the perfect mix (no pun intended ;)) of both the herbal tea and the fresh fruit.

I prefer Stash Tea’s Organic Chamomile Tea and Whole Foods Market has had the most amazing Organic fresh peaches so far this season!

Two ingredients are all it takes to make a sweet, flavorful, and refreshing drink for people of all ages! The recipe is below, Enjoy!!

Epilepsy Insight #10: Make Your Own Lotion

 

It’s lotion, you NEED this product! Dry skin is not exactly a good look for anyone nor is it preferred! Especially if you’re like me and you live in the desert region of Southern California! Seriously though, processed lotion is one of those products where I am always disappointed whether it’s organic or non-organic.

The ingredient labels for both types of lotion are atrocious! If you choose non-organic, you’re getting tons of chemicals and other synthetic ingredients, but if you try organic you’ll get soy-based tocopherols in your lotion. Trust me when I say that most organic lotion products contain either “Tocopherols” or “Vitamin E” which are commonly derived from soy in organic products. It is incredibly difficult to find a lotion product that consists of clean ingredients only in today’s market. I have searched high, low, and everywhere in between trying to find one! Unless I want to make it myself…

If I’m being completely honest, the idea of making my own lotion was super intimidating at first! I automatically assumed it would be an impossible task to do all by myself. I mean, massive companies are usually the masters of producing these types of products! However, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that it is perhaps one of the easiest recipes I have ever encountered! And I LOVE the way this lotion smells!!! It only consists of almond oil, coconut oil, shea butter, and vanilla essential oil. Yep, that’s it! You can make it at home without the need for any special tools or equipment. Say goodbye to the days of being disappointed with your processed lotion product and take matters into your own hands! You do not have to expose your body to the toxins in many lotions and if you’re epileptic, like me, you can also reduce your exposure to seizure triggers. Watch Epilepsy Insight #10 below to hear my thoughts on this subject and to receive a few tips for cleaning up your daily regimen.

The lotion recipe I discuss in my video below is adapted from Wellness Mama’s Luxurious Lotion Recipe.

Click here to read my full article on this lotion recipe.

 

Sources:

https://wellnessmama.com/3765/homemade-lotion-recipe/

 

Medical Disclaimer:

The information posted on Seize the Day Blog, including but not limited to, articles, images, recipes, text, and other material are shared for informational purposes only. None of the writings should be looked upon as advice meant to replace that of an actual medical professional. If you suspect you have a serious medical condition you should seek help from a healthcare professional immediately. Please be aware that the author of this website is posting information simply to inform NOT to recommend others about health-related topics. Before following any information (i.e. undertaking a new healthcare or diet routine) found here on Seize the Day Blog, you should always consult a medical professional first. Please be sure to never disregard any medicinal advice because of something you have read on this website.

 

 

Homemade Lotion Recipe

When it comes to ingredient labels you want to know as much as possible about each and every ingredient listed in “said” product label so that you can fully comprehend what it is you’re about to eat or slather onto your body. You know what they say about not judging a book by its cover?? Forget it all! 

When it comes to products in the cosmetic arena, the ingredient label is the symbolic cover of your book. Reading the label is going to give you insight, but researching ingredients individually will expose the truth about the quality of any product. This list of ingredients will determine whether or not you want anything to do with a certain product. It could be a food, cosmetic, toiletry, the list goes on and on…and so should your knowledge about the quality of any product you’re about to put in or on your body if you truly want to maintain your good health. 

Personally, I found a very unfortunate pattern begin to develop every time I read a processed product’s label…it was the pattern of disappointment. 

Without fail, I would be extremely disappointed with the poor quality of whichever product was in my hands at the moment. Lotion still remains the one product I was absolutely unsuccessful at finding. I did the “organic products only” for a while, hoping that this would be the solution I was seeking, but I’m sorry to say that things got even worse for me and my seizures. 

I was faced with a huge increase in seizure activity and it is because of the ingredients used in a large majority of the organic lotion products available on today’s market. It turns out that organic companies often use soy as the vegetable source for the Vitamin E or Tocopherol ingredients listed in their product. Soy isn’t used every single time, but your odds of soy being a derivative for an ingredient grow substantially when it comes to organic companies.

First, let’s clarify something about soy…it is NOT healthy for the human body. Contrary to popular belief, soy and soy-related ingredients such as soy lecithin will actually wreak havoc on the human body, especially where hormones are concerned. 

Second, soy is a common seizure trigger for most epileptics, myself included. So when I began using a lotion product that said it only contained Vitamin E or Tocopherol, I was too naive at the time to realize that you have to further research certain ingredients in a label to know for certain that it is actually safe for someone with seizures. In this case, I needed to contact the company to double-check exactly what their source was for the “Tocopherol” listed on their product’s ingredient label. 

While I originally assumed I would have fewer seizures once I began using the organic products, I was sorely disappointed with my actual result of increased seizure activity. I now avoid organic lotion products like the plague because their ingredients just cannot be trusted. I returned to using a generic lotion brand who’s ingredient label was absolutely atrocious, but shockingly did not trigger any extra seizures. I had to pick and choose my battles at this point…do I use an organic product that, on paper, should be healthier for me, but causing my seizure activity to increase or do I use a generic product that contains very poor quality ingredients, but does not cause an increase in my seizures after application?

It is quite a dilemma, but ultimately it is always going to be a Catch 22 type of situation no matter which product I choose. I may win when I do not have any seizures triggered by a product, but I’m losing in the long run when I expose my body to toxic ingredients.

I live in a desert region of Southern California so lotion is definitely a necessity around my house. The thing is, I just couldn’t justify applying carcinogenic ingredients onto the surface of my skin on a daily basis. Nor could I find a product with a clean ingredient label…

So what’s a girl to do??? How do I make this situation a win-win scenario?

I tried doing alternative moisturizers such as coconut oil, but it was just way too greasy for me. I like the healthier aspect, but the coconut oil was inconvenient in the mornings when I would apply it, then basically have to towel most of it off my skin because I wouldn’t be able to get dressed without getting grease all over my clothes. 

Finally, I found a lotion recipe from Wellness Mama and it is fabulous!

The recipe below is completely adapted from her recipe, I simply doubled the ingredients and added vanilla essential oil for the scent. Feel free to adjust the recipe to fit your preferences, swap out the vanilla essence with any other flavor(s). 

Here’s the thing about this lotion: it is nourishing, it absorbs quickly, and it smells great!  

Unlike the straight coconut oil, my skin actually absorbs this lotion and it leaves a sweet smell that lasts all day long. Instead of a greasy texture that only makes me long for a dry washcloth to wipe away the excess coconut oil, I am left with smooth skin. If you’re like me and you prefer soft, nourished skin you might want to give this recipe a try.

The lotion can be stored at room temperature for up to 6 months. I prefer to store mine in a mason jar. Avoid a pump whenever possible, this lotion is best when scooped out of the jar with a spoon due to its thickness. 

This recipe usually lasts me about 2 months. A little goes a long way! It is very nourishing (I know I keep saying that, but it is!) so you only need a tiny bit to satisfy your dry skin! As was mentioned on Wellness Mama, “This lotion works great for diaper rash on a baby, eczema, and for preventing stretch marks.” 

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! It is a must-have in my house AND it’s healthy! I can also confirm that it has never caused any increased seizure activity. I always count this as a huge win!

 

 

Sources:

Wellness Mama: https://wellnessmama.com/3765/homemade-lotion-recipe/

 

Medical Disclaimer:

The information posted on Seize the Day Blog, including but not limited to, articles, images, recipes, text, and other material are shared for informational purposes only. None of the writings should be looked upon as advice meant to replace that of an actual medical professional. If you suspect you have a serious medical condition you should seek help from a healthcare professional immediately. Please be aware that the author of this website is posting information simply to inform NOT to recommend others about health-related topics. Before following any information (i.e. undertaking a new healthcare or diet routine) found here on Seize the Day Blog, you should always consult a medical professional first. Please be sure to never disregard any medicinal advice because of something you have read on this website.

Perfect Springtime Fruit Salad

There is something about the combination of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries that makes me long for Summertime! Don’t get me wrong, I’m very much enjoying Spring in California, but there’s always a part of me that longs for the June, July, and August months!

A refreshing fruit salad is a perfect way to celebrate the amazing fruit and veggie season we’re already having thanks to all of those rainy days that took place at the beginning of 2020.

My fruit salad isn’t complicated, on the contrary, it is incredibly simple, but it will make your entire household happy. Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are the only ingredients you need. Dice them to fit your preference and mix all three fruits together in a bowl.

Finally, enjoy your beautiful creation!

 

 

Also, check out Seize the Day Blog on Instagram for more blog-related content:

 

 

 

Medical Disclaimer:

The information posted on Seize the Day Blog, including but not limited to, articles, images, recipes, text, and other material are shared for informational purposes only. None of the writings should be looked upon as advice meant to replace that of an actual medical professional. If you suspect you have a serious medical condition you should seek help from a healthcare professional immediately. Please be aware that the author of this website is posting information simply to inform NOT to recommend others about health-related topics. Before following any information (i.e. undertaking a new healthcare or diet routine) found here on Seize the Day Blog, you should always consult a medical professional first. Please be sure to never disregard any medicinal advice because of something you have read on this website.

Epilepsy Insight #8: Blood Brain Barrier

 

What is the Blood Brain Barrier? More importantly, how does this “barrier” relate to directly to your seizure activity?

For starters, the Blood Brain Barrier is a tight-knit wall of Endtholelial Cells separating your brain from your bloodstream. The purpose of this separation is to prevent unwanted molecules floating in your bloodstream from crossing over into your brain.

If unwanted molecules or toxins are able to cross this barrier, it could mean damage to your brain as well as increased seizure activity.

Our greatest concern is the fact that the Blood Brain Barrier can become weakened, this is also called Blood Brain Barrier Degradation or Leaky Blood Brain Barrier. When your barrier becomes weakened, it is unable to prevent all unwanted molecules from reaching your brain. The result of which is an increase in bodily sensitivity. You will find that you are much more sensitive to foods, products, etc. because your brain is no longer protected from the unwanted molecules found in these locations and many more. In addition, your brain will only become more sensitive when it is continually exposed to these toxins on a daily basis.

The good news is there are holistic methods to build your Blood Brain Barrier back up to its original strength. The holisitic path involves vitamins and minerals, Vitamin D and Vitamin B are each incredibly important for a strong Blood Brain Barrier. However, you must do your part in changing your routine to help protect your brain from toxin exposure. Reduce your intake of processed foods filled with chemical ingredients, go organic so that you can eliminate your exposure to pesticides, and pay more attention to the ingredient list on each of your cosmetic and toiletry products. This simply step will make a huge difference because you will be eliminating a primary source for unwanted molecules/toxins.

In Epilepsy Insight #9, I discuss how the Blood Brain Barrier has affected my own seizure activity and I explain in greater detail the influence this barrier has on long-term brain health.

Epilepsy Insight #8: Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) & Soy

Monosodium Glutamate, known better by its notorious acronym, “MSG,” and Soy are two of my primary seizure triggers. Each is found in a large variety of products including food, cosmetics, toiletries, etc. The list truly does goes on and on…each ingredient is cheap to use and companies love the fact that it increases their bottom line.

Recently, people have become more aware of exactly how bad MSG and Soy are for the human body so many companies have tried to side-step the issue of decreased sales due to their inclusion of poor quality ingredients by using code-names instead. So, these companies are still using the same poor quality ingredients, they’ve simply become adept at disguising “said” ingredients with hard to pronounce and unrecognizable ingredients names.

Entire lists of codenames exist for MSG and Soy. By using codenames, companies can continue to use these ingredients without the general public realizing it. Some codenames for MSG include Maltodextrin, Natural Flavor, Carrageenan, Dextrose, and Malted Barley.

To read the full list of codenames for MSG visit:

Over 34 Hidden Names for MSG

Codenames for Soy include Tocopherol or Vitamin E, Soy Lecithin, Soy Protein, Soybean Oil, and Mono or Diglycerides.

To read the full list of codenames for Soy visit:

Click to access Soy-Allergy-Avoidance-List-Hidden-Names.pdf

It is actually quite sneaky because who would have guessed that Vitamin E can be sourced from soy? It’s crazy! In Epilepsy Insight #8, I go into greater detail about MSG and Soy as seizure triggers. I also share a few tips on how to avoid these ingredients in your everyday life.

***Side Note: It is also important to pay special attention to a brand’s wording in relation to whether or not they include either of these ingredients in their food. Take the very popular chain restaurant Panda Express, for example. On the glass display where you choose your dishes you will see a notice informing the customer that there is “No MSG Added.” At first glance, one might think Panda Express’ food does not contain any MSG. Reading the ingredient labels for each individual dish offered by Panda Express will quickly inform the consumer that MSG does indeed exist in their food, however, once it’s put behind the pretty glass case no more MSG is added. So, be careful to investigate every ingredient label whether it is involving something edible or not because you will uncover the true nature of the product regardless of what is advertised.

 

Medical Disclaimer:

The information posted on Seize the Day Blog, including but not limited to, articles, images, recipes, text, and other material are shared for informational purposes only. None of the writings should be looked upon as advice meant to replace that of an actual medical professional. If you suspect you have a serious medical condition you should seek help from a healthcare professional immediately. Please be aware that the author of this website is posting information simply to inform NOT to recommend others about health-related topics. Before following any information (i.e. undertaking a new healthcare or diet routine) found here on Seize the Day Blog, you should always consult a medical professional first. Please be sure to never disregard any medicinal advice because of something you have read on this website.

 

Epilepsy Insight #7: My Story

 

On March 25, 2009, I had my very first grand mal or tonic-clonic seizure around 8:00 PM at a friend’s house of all places. At 15 years old, the diagnosis of a serious disease like epilepsy completely flipped my world upside down. My family and I began by seeking a solution through modern medicine. When multiple attempts ended in failure we decided to give the holistic route a try instead.

Although I am still living with grand mal/tonic-clonic and partial seizures, I have made progress down the path toward healing thanks to holistic medicine. My story isn’t super exciting, but a life with epilepsy has taught me a variety of lessons. Lessons that I share for the sole purpose of helping others struggling with similar issues.

This blog, the linked Instagram account, and the Epilepsy Insight videos have allowed me to share with the world some tips and tricks I have learned through a trial and error process. I figured, 11 years of making mistakes and then learning how to correct those same mistakes should be helpful for at least one other epileptic. At the very least, I hoped the information shared here on the blog and in the Epilepsy Insight videos would be able to prevent other epileptics from making the same mistakes I made in the past.

Here I am now at 26 years old (almost 27, but shhh…don’t let that get out ;-)) and I only wish to help others struggling even if it is only providing support for others during their own challenging circumstances. The most important lesson I have learned after 11 years with epilepsy is this:

Yes, you will face challenges, but what may seem like a burden is actually a blessing because every success and failure you experience is actually molding and shaping you into exactly who you are meant to be. Embrace the struggle because a wise boy named Christopher Robin once said, “You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”

So, to hear more about my story watch Epilepsy Insight #7 (video below) and read my “About” section here on Seize the Day Blog.

 

 

Medical Disclaimer:

The information posted on Seize the Day Blog, including but not limited to, articles, images, recipes, text, and other material are shared for informational purposes only. None of the writings should be looked upon as advice meant to replace that of an actual medical professional. If you suspect you have a serious medical condition you should seek help from a healthcare professional immediately. Please be aware that the author of this website is posting information simply to inform NOT to recommend others about health-related topics. Before following any information (i.e. undertaking a new healthcare or diet routine) found here on Seize the Day Blog, you should always consult a medical professional first. Please be sure to never disregard any medicinal advice because of something you have read on this website.