Seared Scallops with Arugula Pesto

Adapted from Cooking From Scratch from PCC Community Markets

Makes 4 Servings

Ingredients:

4 cups baby arugula (about 4 ounces)

4 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted

1 clove garlic

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

½ ounce (3 tablespoons) grated Pecorino Romano sheep cheese

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

Sea salt and ground pepper

1 pound scallops

1 tablespoon ghee

1 tablespoon butter

Directions:

1. In the work bowl of a food processor, combine the arugula, 3 tablespoons of the pine nuts, garlic, lemon juice, and Pecorino; pulse about eight times, until everything is chopped. With the machine running, drizzle in the olive oil until smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper; set aside.
2. Rinse the scallops, pat them dry with paper towels, and season them generously with salt and pepper. In a cast-iron or stainless-steel sauté pan over high heat, heat the ghee and butter until they shimmer, then place the scallops in the pan so they are not touching. Don’t touch them again until you are ready to flip so that a golden crust forms, about 1 ½ to 3 minutes on the first side. Gently flip them over and cook for an additional 30-90 seconds. They should have a golden crust on each side while the centers remain slightly translucent. The scallops will continue to cook a little once removed from the heat.
3. Spread the pesto on a plate, top with the scallops and sprinkle with the additional 1 tablespoon pine nuts and serve immediately.

Note: Save extra pesto in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or frozen for up to 1 month. A perfect toss with spaghetti squash or other spiralized vegetable or served with roasted chicken or white fish.

By Mila McManus MD|2019-01-05T10:03:41-05:00January 4th, 2019|General, Recipes|

Boundaries

This is a quote that I have found helpful in my journey and relationship with food and myself. It has helped me to:

see boundaries as a way to love myself and know who I am and who I don’t want to be.
get comfortable reaching for a longer perspective, rather than be overcome with short term gratification.
be courageous and set some reasonable and needed boundaries for my life without concern for what others may think.

I hope you will take some time to read it a couple times, maybe even out loud. May you find in it a nugget of encouragement or help for you or someone you love.

Boundaries

“Boundaries, in a broad sense, are lines or things that mark a limit, bound, or border. In a psychological sense, boundaries are the realization of our own person apart from others. This sense of separateness forms the basis of personal identity. It says what we are and what we are not, what we will choose and what we will not choose, what we will endure and what we will not endure, what we feel and what we will not feel, what we like and what we do not like, and what we want and what we do not want. Boundaries, in short, define us. In the same way that a physical boundary defines where a property line begins and ends, a psychological and spiritual boundary defines who we are and who we are not.” Dr. Henry Cloud, Changes that Heal, Zondervan Publishing House, 1992.

May 2019 be a year of greater health, better relationships, meaningful work and daily gratitude.

Peace be with you.

By Mila McManus MD|2019-01-04T11:57:20-05:00January 4th, 2019|General, NANCY’S NUTRITIONAL NUGGET|

Neurofeedback Changes Your Mind, Literally!

Written by Guest Contributor:

Spring Hill, MS, LMFT, LPC

Individual, Couples, Family Counseling

Neurofeedback Services

Have you ever felt like “if I could just relax instead of being anxious, depressed, or distracted I would enjoy life more?” Well, you’re not alone. The brain controls everything we do in our lives from relaxing, to sports activities, to writing this article. Specifically, it is our brain waves that control what and how we think, how we feel physically, mentally and emotionally, and how we behave with others.
If our brainwave distribution becomes out of balance (much like our hormones), symptoms may result, such as anxiety, depression, lack of energy, foggy thinking, etc. Neurofeedback is a non-invasive, pain-free computer-based technique which retrains the brain to produce brainwave patterns that are beneficial to better functioning. When the electrical system (brainwaves) is modulated through Neurofeedback, the brain becomes more flexible, calming the brain and helping the client to have better control of their emotions, feelings and thoughts. The results of the brain changes are enduring, unlike medication.
What does a Neurofeedback session look like?
• During a session a cap with sensors is placed on the head to monitor the brainwave activity, much like the electrical activity you see when having an EKG. (There is NO electricity going into the head)
• This activity is displayed onto the therapist’s computer monitor. On a separate screen, the client plays a video game or watches a movie that is generated using their brainwave activity.
• Each time a healthy brainwave is achieved, the client is rewarded via graphics and auditory sound. As healthier brainwaves are achieved, a healthier state of mind (e.g., focused, relaxed, less anxiety) is learned.
Neurofeedback is a safe, long-lasting, drug-free alternative to treating symptoms including:
• Focus/Foggy thinking/Cognitive Processing
• Anxiety/Panic Attacks/ Obsessive thoughts, Compulsions
• Depression
• Sleep issues
• Pain
• Other Conditions and Symptoms
The overall goal is to help the client manage their symptoms and improve their performance in whatever area of life they desire such as school, work, or relaxation. For more information regarding neurofeedback contact Spring Hill at shill1@springhill4counseling.com or call 713.927.5093.

By Mila McManus MD|2019-01-04T12:17:21-05:00January 4th, 2019|Articles, General|

ONDAMED Results in 3 months!

ONDAMED

Feedback from a patient K.H. who’s been having ONDAMED sessions for the past 3 months:

Really had significant things happen…

Went from constipated to regular BMs.
Lost 15 lbs without changing diet.
moved from depressed moods to better moods.

Just to name a few!

By Mila McManus MD|2019-01-04T13:03:26-05:00November 21st, 2018|General, Testimonials|

Keto Cranberry Sauce

From https://www.wholesomeyum.com/recipes/4-ingredient-sugar-free-low-carb-cranberry-sauce-paleo-gluten-free/

Makes 1 ½ cup

12 ounces fresh cranberries

1 cup powdered erythritol (recommend Swerve brand)

¾ cup filtered water

1 teaspoon orange zest

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

1. 1. Combine the cranberries, water, erythritol, and orange zest in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the cranberries pop and a sauce forms.
2. 2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. 3. Serve or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes and Serving Suggestions: The confectioners, powdered Swerve will prevent the sauce from crystalizing in the refrigerator so if making ahead, use this product for best results. It is available on line and at most grocery stores. Use orange zest to taste. If you enjoy the orange flavor, you may wish to increase to 2 teaspoons to intensify the orange flavor.

By Mila McManus MD|2018-11-21T01:30:02-05:00November 21st, 2018|General, Recipes|

Rising Concerns – Electropollution

We Can’t Ignore It

By Mila McManus, MD

This year, my staff and I have witnessed an undeniable escalation of concern about the constant barrage of electromagnetic radiation and its effects on our health and the health of our children.

Other names used for electromagnetic radiation include electrosmog and electro-pollution. This radiation occurs in the higher frequency ranges of the electromagnetic spectrum, usually as megahertz (MHz) and gigahertz (GHz). Our bodies need and require very low frequencies (0.1 to 32000 Hertz, or Hz) to live. These low frequencies are life-giving and restorative. Unfortunately, we greatly interrupt these healing frequencies, found in the human body and in the earth’s surface, with much higher frequencies that disturb and harm the human body (MHz and GHz). There is now a significant body of published scientific and anecdotal evidence that supports a correlation between these higher levels of electromagnetic radiation and various negative health effects including cancer, asthma, chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, ADD, autism and a number of neurological disorders.

Sources of potentially harmful electromagnetic radiation include wireless technologies (WiFi technologies) such as cell phones, iPads, laptops, baby monitors and cell towers, as well as sources of power traveling through electrical wires into our homes and businesses called High Frequency Voltage Transients (HFVT’s). HFVT’s include electrical appliances/equipment of every kind, fluorescent light bulbs, AC/DC power mode converters, rectangular black boxes on power cords, televisions, computers, printer/copier/fax machines, dimmer switches, “smart” digital readers (SMART Meters), energy efficient appliances, cordless phone base stations and microwaves.

Electrical pollution is a difficult subject because we are all greatly exposed to it and our lifestyles are heavily dependent upon it. Most of the sources have become routine in the pattern of our everyday lives. We don’t feel it or see it, so it is easy to believe it does not exist. Yet 1 in 2 Americans have a chronic disease and 1 in 4 have multiple chronic diseases.[1] Another real concern is for our children, including those still in the womb. Research shows radiation emitted from cell phones and Wi-Fi negatively impacts children’s development in the womb.[2]

Our exposure increases as greater technological advances occur. For example, there are great concerns about the Smart Meters being added to residences and businesses, touted as “green energy”, as well as the imminent 5G mobile network and matching cell phones. Both of these additions are expected to increase microwave radiation from electromagnetic frequencies exponentially. Despite the fact that government and corporate entities have been informed of these health concerns, they appear to be far less concerned about potential harm to our health than implementing the next greatest thing in technology to reap the profits from it.

Here Are Ways to Protect Yourself and Your Family[3]

Put your phone in airplane mode when you are carrying it or sleeping near it.
Consider a Faraday bag for your cell phone. faradaybag.com
When using your cell phone, use the speaker phone and hold the phone at least 3 feet away from you.
Decrease your time on the cell phone as much as possible.
Explore the use of VoIP software phones that can be used while connected to the internet via a wired connection.
Connect your desktop/laptop to the internet via a wired Ethernet connection and keep it in airplane mode as much as possible.
Avoid using wireless keyboards, trackballs, mice, game systems, printers and portable house phones. Opt for wired versions.
If you must use Wi-Fi, shut if off when not in use, especially at night when sleeping. Ideally work toward hardwiring your house so you can eliminate Wi-Fi all together. There are USB Ethernet adapters for notebooks that allow connection to the internet with a wired connection.
Shut off electricity to the bedroom at night. This reduces electrical fields from the wires in your walls, unless there is an adjoining room next to it. In this case, a meter will help determine the severity of the electrical fields and if you need to shut off electricity in both rooms or not.
Use a battery powered alarm clock, ideally one without any light. Talking clocks for the visually impaired work well.
Replace your microwave oven with a steam convection oven, which will heat your food as quickly and far more safely.
Avoid “smart” appliances and thermostats that depend on wireless signaling. This includes “smart” televisions. Consider replacing the TV with a large computer monitor instead, as this will not emit Wi-Fi signals.
Refuse smart meters as long as you can or add a shield to an existing smart meter.
Consider moving your baby’s bed into your room instead of using a wireless baby monitor. Alternatively, used a hard-wired monitor.
Replace CFL and LED bulbs with incandescent bulbs. Ideally remove all fluorescent lights from the house. Fluorescent lighting emits unhealthy light and transfers a current to the body just being close to them.
Do not use light bulbs you can control from your cell phone as they emit radio frequency just like a Wi-Fi router.

Here are some resources to learn more:

http://electromagnetichealth.org/electromagnetic-health-blog/summary-and-audio/

www.blushield-us.com

https://emfields-solutions.com/

Book: How To Break Up With Your Cell Phone, By Catherine Price

Be Well, Choose Health

[1] https://www.drbenlynch.com/chronic-disease/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+DrBenLynch+%28Dr+Ben+Lynch%29

[2] http://electromagnetichealth.org/electromagnetic-health-blog/summary-and-audio/

[3] https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2018/11/14/heart-tumors-from-cellphone-radiation.aspx?utm_source=dnl&utm_medium=email&ut

By Mila McManus MD|2018-11-30T14:44:41-05:00November 19th, 2018|Articles, General|

“Win, Win. Hurray!”

Win, Win. Hurray!

I’m doing very well. No more die off symptoms. My pain has been greatly diminished. I have much more range of motion in my arms, getting up out of my lounge chair is no longer extremely painful. No more gastrointestinal bloating anywhere. I am slowly losing weight. I have not had to take pain relievers or Nexium since starting the (clean) diet. My skin has cleared up considerably. Win, Win hurray!!! I am so appreciative to my dear friend for recommending wonderful Dr. McManus and her staff for my journey into healing from the dietary war on our bodies and minds. It amazes me how food has become our bodies enemy. How what you could once eat with no problems builds to a toxic crescendo limiting your life in so many painful and mind altering ways. I look forward to working with you all going forward on a new healthier lifestyle.

Thank you!

-LK

By Mila McManus MD|2019-01-04T13:00:39-05:00October 26th, 2018|General, Testimonials|

Benefits of IV Nutrition Therapy

by Mila McManus MD

Intravenous (IV) nutrition therapy has been used in hospital settings for decades and was first developed and tested by Dr. John Myers at Johns Hopkins University in the 1970’s. Patients have reported significant improvements from IV Therapy for many conditions including fatigue, headaches, muscle spasms, PMS, seasonal allergies, sinusitis, asthma, anxiety, depression, stress, digestive disorders, nutrient deficiencies, toxicity, dehydration, hives, hyperthyroidism, infection, heart disease, and immune system support.

If you are wondering if IV Nutrition Therapy is for you, here is a list of the benefits to consider:

Quick delivery, quick utilization – IV therapy delivers nutrients directly to the bloodstream where they can be utilized immediately. While you can’t expect IV Nutrition Therapy to take the place of a good supplement regimen, it can be used in targeted ways to get quicker results than would be achieved taking nutrients orally.
Therapeutic doses delivered to the cells – IV therapy allows delivery of therapeutic (ie higher) levels to the blood stream in cases where it would be uncomfortable or digestively difficult to consume the same level orally. For example, when blood levels of Vitamin C are between 10-15 mg/dL, vitamin C can help to overcome a cold and fight a virus. This level can be achieved easily through IV therapy but would be very difficult, if not impossible, to reach through oral therapy. (read a book called Curing the Incurable by Dr Thomas Levy which is about all the benefits of high doses of vitamin C)
Immune Boosting Support – IV therapy makes it possible to quickly deliver B vitamins, glutathione, zinc, and vitamin C as added support to the challenged and busy immune system. It can function much like bringing in air support to the ground troops to make the difference and win the battle.
Improved energy, resilience to stress– With IV therapy you can begin to experience the favorable effects within hours. Depending on the therapy, examples include an increase in energy and stamina, the ability to think more clearly and a better mood. B Vitamins help to relieve anxiety and stress while glutathione, our master antioxidant, supports detoxification.
Immediate rehydration – IV therapy provides optimal hydration to support all vital organ functions. When done often, it can prove preventative and protective in avoiding kidney stones, constipation and damage to muscles. It can be a great choice for athletes to replenish vitamins and minerals lost through excessive sweating, while also improving recovery time and preventing muscle spasms and exhaustion.
Fights effects of environmental toxins – Toxins in our everyday environment can take a toll on your health and appearance. IV Therapy can supply the antioxidants needed to fight off signs of premature aging and help the body flush out harmful toxins more effectively. Glutathione is especially valuable for this purpose.
Preventative care – Therapeutic doses of vitamin C have been shown to be toxic to cancer cells and are effective at building immunity and improving resistance to chronic and upper respiratory infections.

With few exceptions, most can benefit from IV Nutrition Therapy. Come experience it for yourself!

By Mila McManus MD|2022-10-10T16:20:41-05:00October 25th, 2018|Articles, General|

CollaGEN

CollaGEN, by Orthomolecular Products, is designed strategically to support connective tissue
regeneration and stability. Collagen is the primary protein fiber found in connective tissue,
which gives tendons, ligaments, fascia, cartilage, bone and skin structural stability. The body
makes collagen using specific amino acids along with vitamin C and magnesium. Aging, poor
eating habits, mechanical stress and inflammation can disrupt the process of collagen
biosynthesis, resulting in weaker fibers. CollaGEN supplements the raw materials needed to
restore collagen biosynthesis, thus supporting connective tissue regeneration and stability.
CollaGEN is a tasteless powder that can be mixed with water or another beverage choice and is
available for purchase at TWIHW.

By Mila McManus MD|2018-10-25T16:57:18-05:00October 25th, 2018|Articles, General|

Pumpkin Pie al la Pumpkin Pie Filling and Nutty Pie Crust

Nutty Pie Crust

Makes one 9 inch bottom pie crust

1 ⅓ cups ground nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds, and/or macadamia nuts)

⅔ cup ground golden flaxseeds

6 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, stir together the nuts, flaxseeds, butter until well blended.

2. Press into a 9” pie plate.

3. To pre-bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Cover the pie crust with foil. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil, turn the pie plate, and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the crust is golden and no longer moist to the touch.

Pumpkin Pie Filling

Fills one 9” pie crust (See above.)

1 can pumpkin puree (15-ounce)

⅔ cup full fat, canned, organic, coconut milk

6 tablespoons Lakanto Maple Flavored Syrup made with Monk Fruit

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1 rounded tablespoon pumpkin pie spice

1 rounded teaspoon cinnamon

Pinch of salt

2 large eggs, room temperature

1 egg yolk, room temperature

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

2. In a bowl, place all of the ingredients except the eggs and stir until just blended.

3. Whisk in the eggs, one at a time and then the egg yolk. Don’t overmix.

4. Pour the filling into the crust and spread it around to the edges.

5. Cover the pie with foil and bake for 55-65 minutes or until center is nearly set, just slightly jiggly.

6. Allow to cool completely at room temperature to avoid excessive cracking. Once cooled, serve, or, cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days prior to serving.

By Mila McManus MD|2018-10-31T06:47:26-05:00October 25th, 2018|General, Recipes|