My first Cesarean surgery

My actual review of the hospital that I had my Cesarean section surgery done at. 

"The most thoroughly pleased with any single experience that I have ever been. Upon return from my experience from SGMC I realized that many amazing experiences go unmentioned. I have to say thank you to SGMC and my OB and midwife for saving me and my baby's life this week. 

When I arrived in OBED, Victoria helped me by checking my vitals and had Shannon to come and check my dilation which was at 2cm. Somehow during the day, my contractions had stopped and my blood pressure had began to rise steadily. I knew I needed intervention, but had no idea. 

Midwife Sharon came to see me after Victoria so graciously called her in in preference over the doctor on call, since she had been expecting me that day for an induction. Since the first IV attempt was faulty after the second tube of blood, Victoria was kind enough to get me to Labor and Delivery to where someone who was able to find a vein could be found. Once in Labor and Delivery, Ashlyn introduced me to Devoney who was incredible with inserting an IV in a part of my left arm that was the only available vein. This IV lasted me the duration of my 3 day stay without ever causing me any significant pain. 

My midwife Sharon had called for a 30 minute ultrasound, done by Scott, during which the most precarious thing happened. My baby turned breech in my womb. The technician Scott did not tell me but my husband let me know while the probe was on the top part of my belly that the baby had moved head up. Sharon came in and shed tears with me, because she knew that it meant I would have to have a C-section surgery done. This then put me also in tears but the anesthesiologist Tommy explained the risks and advocated for the spinal anesthesia, as did Dr. Sharon, who was my OB and would be the one performing my surgery. Tommy prayed with me that my baby would turn, and my nurse, Aalysse (forgive my spelling if wrong), helped me survive and also helped me pray and have faith. The nurse Ashley who had been my nurse during multiple other deliveries came in to support me, and a bright spirited nurse named Paige came to help me stay positive during my operation as well. I chose the spinal. Aalysse held both of my hands and even let me cry on her neck while I messed several attempts at the spinal needle insertion. She was my strength as I was super nervous to the point of shaking but I knew that my daughter had to come out of me one way or another, and this was the safest way for her with my age and being 41 weeks along. 

Aalysee and Tommy got me calm and coached me into the final completion of the spinal numbing, and the procedure was done safely within what felt like only a few minutes of my life. A before and after pic of my bikini line showed that I was sewn up beautifully. The hospital honored my request for delayed cord clamping and not to stick any fingers in the baby's mouth. Aalysee observed me for another hour tentatively ensuring she gently pushed out as many blood clots as she could from my post surgery uterus. Super thank you to Aalysse and Tommy. I want to say a special thank you to Tamara and Delaney in the Nursery who were the first two people to care for my baby and ensured she got much needed oxygen and brought her to me whenever I was cognizant enough to see her. 

Ashlynn was my first postpartum nurse along with Brandi. Post partum recovery was of course awful but my health was taken care of and I had incredible support from Jordan, the charge nurse Hillary and the service lady Stephanie who placed a sheet over the window to enable me to sleep during the day. Thank you to Ashlyn who advocated for me to get off of the Pitocin once the first cleaning was done and it was understood that my bleeding level was normal for a first time cleaning done 4 hours after my arrival from Labor and Delivery. Pitocin was gruesome even with the morphine, but I never did end up having to do the second bag of Pitocin. Ashlynn also told me about using the bathroom every 2 hours to 3 to about extra pain.

At a few times the nurses had to help me walk but underestimated the importance of clearing the bladder in order to prevent the burning feeling in the lower pelvis area on the side that was the most pulled during the procedure. One of my nurses, Bella, did insist I take my prescribed labetalol when my bp was reading only100 over 51, which induced a reaction of shortness of breath and faintness and dizziness. The result was I missed my bathroom trip and had to cancel my family visit for the evening only to awake in excruciating pain from the full bladder. Brandi and Shakyra came to rescue me when I was screaming help multiple times and the pain only got worse until I got to the toilet. Since this was my first C-section I can honestly say that if your nurse does not know what to tell you to expect, they can and will seem to think you are faking despite you being in excruciating pain. Be strong for yourself to say no if a drug seems wrong for you to take, since my second night nurse Bella only could offer me a hug or to hold my hand once the side effects started kicking in. She was still great though overall and also brought me tons of ice and water and ice packs and showed me lots of love.

Brittany brightened my morning once the dark night had passed, and I had began to get some bearings about my new body condition. I related with her about the situation and did not take anymore labetalol for the rest of my stay. My doctor Dr. Sharon pulled the labetalol for the rest of the stay but allowed me one more day to get my strength before leaving. I did have one nurse pull my blood who missed a vein just to show me that she didn't see anything there. I was disappointed in that. I won't share her name. 

My food was delicious to include a barbecue salmon with cream corn and spinach that was incredibly flavored and well done. I was able to easily have a Walmart order delivered to me for drinks and waters. The final evening, my family finally came and sat with me from about midnight to 4am on a Saturday, and we were given such warm hospitality. When my pain level went up the nurses brought me medicine as quickly as they could and I was placed right beside the nurses station so that I could be able to have more support with my surgery and my baby when needed. 

When we were checking out, the charge nurse Hillary made sure the carseat was adjusted safely for me while I laid recovering from Percocet that had made me very dizzy and tired. I was given a wrap for my belly and a manual breast pump as well as extra formula and breast pads on request. The nurses got to know my baby and loved on her as if she was theirs. They kept her healthy and despite the blood type her bilirubin levels never went high enough to need a phototherapy. Dr. Anderson came in and was very friendly but the mouth inspection did distort my baby's latch and make her exceptionally and noticeably cranky the rest of the last day when she had been latching well and enjoying her pacifier prior to that inspection. I think docctors should leave out the mouth inspection for babies because their entire demeanor depends on the preservation of their bite and some babies have teeny mouths. I wasn't able to stop him from doing the check fast enough to save her. But he did confirm to me that her breech condition was indeed short term and that her hips were well. I appreciate that he supports but families and also said the C-section was the best choice for the wide shoulders of my baby. 

Overall, I am home and alive after 41 weeks of the longest pregnancy of my life. Thank you SGMC for making my life better and for all of the incredible things you all do for moms every day. Thank you also for the family sized Stouffer's lasagna and 4 Otis Spunkenmeyer cookies and the beautiful pink cooler bag we were sent home with along with the card, the footprints, and the silver spoon. But especially for Jordan who sent me home with a hug and a God bless you to which I responded, I will have to do a review to say thank you. This is my thank you. Thanks everyone who helped me and my family this week, you are forever loved. I'm sure the new SGMC women's tower next year will be a haven with all of you there."

How Lactobacillus Salivarius Supported My 30-Pound Weight-Loss Journey With Zero Effort

 

Over six months, I lost 30 pounds while taking Lactobacillus salivarius. Although my results are personal and I cannot say that one probiotic caused all my weight loss, I believe supporting my digestive health made it easier for me to stay consistent and make progress.

What Is Lactobacillus Salivarius?

Lactobacillus salivarius, now also called Ligilactobacillus salivarius, is a beneficial type of bacteria naturally found in the human digestive tract, mouth, and other parts of the body. Certain strains are included in probiotic supplements because of their potential to support a balanced microbiome.

One important thing to understand is that probiotic benefits are strain-specific. Two products may both list L. salivarius but contain different strains, strengths, or combinations of bacteria.

The Positive Changes I Experienced

When I added Lactobacillus salivarius to my routine, I was interested in improving my overall digestive health. Over time, I began noticing changes that helped me feel better and remain committed to my weight-loss journey.

During those six months, I lost 30 pounds. I view the probiotic as one supportive part of the process, alongside my eating habits, daily routine, and the choices I made consistently.

Here are some of the benefits that made L. salivarius especially interesting to me.

1. Digestive and Microbiome Support

Probiotics help introduce beneficial microorganisms into the body. Some strains of L. salivarius have been studied for their ability to interact with the intestinal microbiome and influence its bacterial composition.

In a randomized, double-blind human trial, researchers found that the strain L. salivarius CECT5713 was well tolerated and produced measurable intestinal and immune effects in healthy adults. Read the clinical study on PubMed.

A healthier digestive routine can make a wellness journey feel much more manageable. When I felt better internally, I found it easier to remain focused on the habits that supported my goals.

2. Possible Metabolic Support

Researchers are continuing to investigate the relationship between probiotics, gut bacteria, metabolism, and body weight. Some studies involving probiotics have reported modest improvements in measurements such as weight, waist circumference, and body fat, but the results vary considerably by strain and individual.

One clinical study examined L. salivarius UBL S22 in adults with obesity. After six weeks, researchers reported changes in several metabolic and inflammatory measurements, particularly when the probiotic was combined with a prebiotic. View the study on PubMed.

This does not mean that L. salivarius is a guaranteed weight-loss supplement. My 30-pound loss was my individual experience over six months. However, I believe caring for my gut health complemented the other choices I was making.

3. Immune-System Support

The digestive system and immune system are closely connected. Researchers have studied certain L. salivarius strains for their potential immunological effects and ability to support a healthy microbial environment.

This is another reason I see probiotics as more than a weight-loss trend. Supporting the microbiome may contribute to broader wellness, although the effects depend on the strain, dosage, product quality, and person.

4. Oral-Health Benefits

One of the most interesting features of L. salivarius is that certain strains have also been studied for oral health. A randomized, placebo-controlled study of L. salivarius WB21 found improvements in some markers associated with periodontal health. Read the periodontal-health study.

Another clinical study found that probiotic lactobacilli, including L. salivarius WB21, improved physiological bad breath and produced beneficial changes in gum bleeding measurements. View the halitosis study.

A probiotic is not a replacement for brushing, flossing, dental care, or treatment, but these findings suggest that selected strains may offer additional oral-microbiome support.

My Biggest Takeaway

My experience taught me that successful weight loss does not always come from one dramatic change. Sometimes progress comes from creating an internal and external environment that makes healthier choices easier to maintain.

I lost 30 pounds in six months while using Lactobacillus salivarius. I cannot promise that another person will experience the same results, and I would never present a probiotic as a magic weight-loss pill. What I can say is that it became a valuable part of my personal wellness routine.

If you are considering L. salivarius, check the product label for the specific strain, colony-forming unit count, storage instructions, expiration date, and other included ingredients. Probiotics are generally well tolerated by healthy adults, although temporary gas or digestive changes can occur. People who are seriously ill, immunocompromised, pregnant, nursing, or giving a probiotic to an infant should consult an appropriate healthcare professional first. The National Institutes of Health probiotic fact sheet provides additional information about probiotic benefits and safety.

This is where you can get this: https://amzn.to/4yQEPoy

This article describes my personal experience and is provided for educational purposes. It is not medical advice, and individual results will vary.

Bee Pollen Helped Me Lose 30 Pounds

I was mind blown to see that bee pollen has helped me lose 30 pounds in the last 4 1/2 months, and I had to share about my process. 

When I started I had been fighting for my life for years. Then I began to say affirmations to help me grow and my health began to improve and ideas started coming. One was to do a parasite cleanse. Then I started taking things that helped against that to include sea moss. But I found a reel on TikTok that showed a woman looking 20 years younger using sea moss and bee pollen and I felt like the idea was for me. I wasn't ready for the ice facials, too cold! 

Anyway, I started using bee pollen and sea moss daily and found that I feel stronger daily and have muscles. I hadn't had real strength in years! I started eating Ramen noodles daily and it actually helped my memory get better so it was a two in one combo win for my health. 

Now when I drink my coffee I put 2 tablespoons of bee pollen in there because it really helps me curb my appetite. Sometimes I take 3 tablespoons in a day, which is the recommended limit. I may stray into 4 but hey who can tell? Haha.

Nevertheless, I am grateful to share with you that youth is at your disposal. I'm loving the results and encourage everyone to try bee pollen. 

I almost forgot to mention that I'm still taking coconut MCT oil daily in the mornings and it is making my life so much easier. 

Be blessed everyone and I hope to see you on the group.

~Precious

Getting Ready to Try Sea Moss!!!

I'm trying Sea Moss Soon...

Hello everyone!

As you know, I am the type to be my own guinea pig. After doing some research about sea moss for years, I have finally decided to try it myself. Therefore, I am posting this blog about sea moss to share with you the value of sea moss in lieu of the arrival of my first jar of it from Amazon!

This is the one that I am going to try, in case you would like try it with me. 

Okay, now for the info about sea moss!

Sea Moss

Sea moss, also known as Irish moss or Chondrus crispus, is a type of red algae that grows abundantly along the rocky coasts of the Atlantic Ocean. For centuries, it has been used in traditional medicine in various parts of the world, particularly in Ireland, where it has been consumed for centuries. In recent years, sea moss has gained popularity as a superfood, thanks to its high nutrient content and numerous health benefits. In this blog post, we will explore the positive effects of using sea moss.

1. Rich in nutrients

Sea moss is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that are crucial for maintaining good health. It contains high amounts of potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iodine, which are all essential for strong bones, healthy muscles, and a robust immune system. It also contains vitamins A, E, F, and K, which are essential for healthy skin, hair, and nails.

2. Boosts immune system

Sea moss has antimicrobial and antiviral properties, making it effective in boosting the immune system. It is also rich in antioxidants, which help to neutralize free radicals in the body, protecting cells from damage and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

3. Promotes healthy digestion

Sea moss is a good source of fiber, which helps to promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation. It also contains carrageenan, a type of soluble fiber that forms a gel-like substance in the digestive tract, which helps to soothe and heal the digestive lining.

4. Supports thyroid function

Sea moss contains high amounts of iodine, a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, and development, and iodine is crucial for the production of these hormones.

5. May improve skin health

Sea moss contains collagen, a protein that is essential for healthy skin, hair, and nails. Collagen helps to keep the skin firm and elastic, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Sea moss is also rich in sulfur, which is essential for healthy skin, and may help to reduce the appearance of acne and other skin conditions.

6. May aid weight loss

Sea moss is low in calories and high in fiber, making it an excellent addition to a weight loss diet. The fiber in sea moss helps to promote feelings of fullness, reducing the appetite and helping to prevent overeating.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sea moss is a highly nutritious superfood that offers numerous health benefits. Its high nutrient content, immune-boosting properties, and ability to promote healthy digestion, thyroid function, and skin health make it an excellent addition to any diet. Whether consumed as a supplement, added to smoothies, or used as a thickener in recipes, sea moss is a versatile and tasty way to improve your health and well-being.

How much is the most that sea moss you can use in a day?

The recommended daily amount of sea moss varies depending on the form in which it is consumed, as well as individual factors such as age, health status, and weight. As a general rule, it is recommended to consume no more than 1-2 tablespoons of sea moss gel or powder per day. Consuming too much sea moss can lead to iodine overdose, which can cause adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and thyroid dysfunction. If you are considering adding sea moss to your diet, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional first to determine the appropriate dosage for your individual needs.

The Coconut Oil and Apple Cider Vinegar Diet: A Simple and Effective Way to Boost Your Health

Coconut Oil and Apple Cider Vinegar Diet

Coconut oil and apple cider vinegar have gained popularity in recent years for their potential health benefits, and now you can combine them into a powerful diet plan. The Coconut Oil and Apple Cider Vinegar Diet is a simple and easy-to-follow diet plan that involves consuming half a cup of organic coconut oil and three tablespoons of organic apple cider vinegar daily. This diet is intended to promote weight loss, improve digestion, and boost overall health.

Coconut oil is a unique source of healthy fats, including medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are quickly metabolized by the liver and can provide energy to the body. Coconut oil is also rich in lauric acid, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Apple cider vinegar, on the other hand, contains acetic acid, which has been linked to several health benefits, including improving insulin sensitivity and lowering blood sugar levels.

How To Do The Diet

To follow the Coconut Oil and Apple Cider Vinegar Diet, start your day by consuming one tablespoon of coconut oil and one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of warm water. This will help kickstart your metabolism and promote digestion. You can also add a teaspoon of honey to the mixture to make it more palatable. 

(You can also take them separate, and try to avoid getting the honey and vinegar mixture on your teeth for long periods of time in order to protect the enamel.)

Here is the original diet:

The Coconut Oil and Apple Cider Vinegar Diet

1/2 cup of organic coconut oil per day
3 tablespoons of organic apple cider vinegar per day
Some exercise
Anything else I decide to eat

Throughout the day, consume the remaining coconut oil and apple cider vinegar by incorporating them into your meals. You can use coconut oil for cooking, add it to smoothies, or even consume it on its own. Apple cider vinegar can be added to salads, used as a marinade, or consumed in a glass of water with a bit of honey.

Other Important Factors

In addition to the coconut oil and apple cider vinegar, make sure to incorporate some exercise into your daily routine. This can be as simple as going for a walk, doing stretches, or lifting weights. Exercise will help boost your metabolism and aid in weight loss.

Finally, it's important to remember that the Coconut Oil and Apple Cider Vinegar Diet is not a restrictive diet. You can still eat anything else you want, as long as you are consuming the recommended amounts of coconut oil and apple cider vinegar. However, it's important to focus on eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Coconut Oil and Apple Cider Vinegar Diet is a simple and easy-to-follow diet plan that can provide numerous health benefits. By incorporating coconut oil and apple cider vinegar into your daily routine and adding some exercise, you can promote weight loss, improve digestion, and boost overall health. So why not give it a try and see the results for yourself?

My Coconut Oil and Apple Cider Vinegar Diet: How I Lost Weight and Gained Energy Naturally

 

Are you someone who has struggled with weight loss and low energy levels? If so, you may be interested in learning about the natural health benefits of coconut oil and apple cider vinegar. These two ingredients have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their numerous health benefits, and when used together, they can create a powerful natural health tonic.

I was someone who struggled with weight loss and low energy levels for years. I tried every diet and supplement on the market, but nothing seemed to work for me. That's when I discovered the power of coconut oil and apple cider vinegar.

I started incorporating coconut oil into my diet by using it as a cooking oil and adding it to my smoothies. I also started taking apple cider vinegar daily, either mixed with water or added to my salad dressings.

The results were amazing. Not only did I start to lose weight, but I also noticed that I had more energy throughout the day. I no longer felt sluggish and tired in the afternoons, and I was able to power through my workouts with ease.

So why did coconut oil and apple cider vinegar work so well for me? Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides, which are easily digestible and can help boost metabolism and promote weight loss. Additionally, apple cider vinegar has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, which can also aid in weight loss.

But the benefits didn't stop there. Coconut oil and apple cider vinegar also helped improve my overall health. I noticed that my skin looked clearer and brighter, and I had fewer digestive issues. I even noticed that I slept better at night, which helped improve my overall mood and wellbeing.

If you're someone who is struggling with weight loss and low energy levels, I highly recommend trying out the coconut oil and apple cider vinegar diet. Start by incorporating these ingredients into your daily routine, either by using coconut oil as a cooking oil or adding it to your smoothies, and by taking apple cider vinegar daily. With time, you may start to notice the same amazing benefits that I did – a healthier body, more energy, and a happier life.

 

 

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Discover the Benefits of Organic Apple Cider Vinegar: The Natural Health Tonic You Need to Try

 

Are you someone who is passionate about natural health and wellness? If so, you may have heard about the many benefits of organic apple cider vinegar. This natural tonic has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of health issues, and it's gaining popularity in the health community for its numerous benefits.

So what exactly is organic apple cider vinegar? It's a type of vinegar made from fermented apples that contains a variety of beneficial compounds, including acetic acid, enzymes, and probiotics. When consumed regularly, it can have a variety of positive effects on the body.

One of the key benefits of organic apple cider vinegar is its ability to promote healthy digestion. It contains enzymes and probiotics that can help improve gut health and support the body's natural digestive processes. Additionally, the acetic acid in apple cider vinegar has been shown to help reduce inflammation in the gut, which can be beneficial for those with digestive issues.

Another benefit of organic apple cider vinegar is its ability to support healthy blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that consuming apple cider vinegar before a meal can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar spikes, making it a valuable tool for those with diabetes or prediabetes.

Organic apple cider vinegar can also be beneficial for those looking to improve their skin health. Its natural acidity can help balance the pH of the skin and reduce inflammation, which can be helpful for those with acne or other skin conditions.

Finally, organic apple cider vinegar has been shown to have a positive impact on overall cardiovascular health. Its ability to lower blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity can help reduce the risk of heart disease, while its anti-inflammatory properties can help improve overall cardiovascular health.

If you're interested in incorporating organic apple cider vinegar into your natural health routine, there are many ways to use it. You can add it to salad dressings, mix it into drinks, or even use it as a natural cleaning solution for your home.

So why not discover the many benefits of organic apple cider vinegar and start incorporating it into your natural health routine? With its numerous health benefits and versatility, it's a natural health tonic you won't want to miss.