I often write about the world when it was young. Missed one childhood disease — religion — but caught another. My generation was brainwashed into believing it necessary to see the doctor if it skinned a knee. I worshipped doctors.
I often write about the world when it was young. Missed one childhood disease — religion — but caught another. My generation was brainwashed into believing it necessary to see the doctor if it skinned a knee. I worshipped doctors.
Fast-forward from some of the adventures my husband, Bill, and I had living it up as ugly Americans to the return to suburbia USA. It was culture shock. We returned affluent. Brought back beautiful things we’d collected.
Bill had a good job — and then disaster. I had three major surgeries and our oldest daughter ended up in hospital for months. We had no health insurance. We hadn’t needed it abroad. We came out of that thousands of dollars in debt. Paid off every penny. Bill worked three jobs. I got a job. The kids sold newspapers. All of us came out healthy. That was a plus.
The financial recovery was stressful. I came down with something, forgotten what, and, of course, ran to the doctor. I warmed a bench for what seemed like hours. Finally two bean counters appeared and embarrassed me in front of all the others. “You can see the doctor if you pay for this visit.” I had no money. I went home. Figured I’d better learn how to get well and stay well.
That’s when I met Adelle Davis. Let’s get well became my Bible. Linus Pauling and his take on vitamin C became my creed. I ignored the disclaimers. I must have read and feasted on a zillion books about health and nutrition. Still have them. It’s a complicated discipline, but I got lucky. I discovered what worked for me.
I learned that each of us has different needs. What keeps me healthy isn’t that which keeps you healthy and needs change as the situation changes. There are times when you need more C than even Linus recommended. I take 10 grams a day as he suggested but on one occasion I took so much I was turning orange and piddling orange juice.
C is water-soluble. Your body discards what it doesn’t need. I discovered I probably need more B vitamins than recommended to stay prime and learned never to take just one B. It’s a complex.
I learned Brewer’s Yeast is a natural source of the B’s, and, as it’s also water soluble, your body takes what it needs and discards the rest. Doctors say, if they analyze your urine, “You have very expensive pee.” I reply, “Yes, but it beats expensive drugs and there are no side effects.”
I created what I call “magic soup” and “magic juice” using Brewer’s Yeast. One day I’ll share the recipes. When under stress my body responds so quickly, I’m always surprised.
I respond to every symptom. Go on a “health food kick” immediately. If symptoms don’t subside in two weeks I see a doctor.
Hasn’t happened in over 30 years. That’s how I kicked the habit.
• Bettejo Dux is an author and resident of Kauai.
