Radiant Living

JBerergyin’snNinegw

Fifty-two year old Jerry Forester* was elated as
he stepped off the scales. One hundred pounds
were gone. He could hardly contain his delight.

He thought back to just one year ago. His weight had been ranging be-
tween two hundred eighty-five and three hundred pounds. He was taking
as many as three shots of insulin plus three other medications each day to
control his diabetes and high blood pressure. He was experiencing panic
attacks, chronic insomnia, and just walking was extremely difficult. His
job suffered as his performance decreased, and he dreaded the thought of
losing his livelihood. The future seemed uncertain, and he feared for his
life. He knew he needed help, but what could he do?

Over the years Jerry had tried many approaches to remedy his condi-
tion, only to be sorely disappointed. Then Jerry learned about a lifestyle
center in a nearby state that promised to help him regain control of his
health. Eagerly he enrolled in their seventeen day live-in program. The
kind doctors and helpful staff evaluated his condition and tailored a plan
specifically for him.

On his first walk he shuffled about 250 feet downhill before he stopped
to rest on a convenient bench for about 20 minutes while he regained his
breath for the return trip.

Day by day he improved. As he regained strength, his doctors gradually
lowered his medications. By the end of the session Jerry was walking more
than a mile at a time and enjoying a new sense of freedom. One shot of
insulin per day was sufficient. His blood pressure was down, and he was
sleeping like a baby.

Jerry carefully followed the new lifestyle program at home. Now, two
years later, his blood sugar is under control, he is totally off all medication,
and he feels wonderful. He lectures and travels extensively and recently
he received a job promotion.

In the pages of this magazine you will discover God’s wonderful
plan for health. Come join this exciting adventure that leads to a truly
radiant life. s

* The name has been changed to protect privacy.

  RADIANT LIVING  s  1

HRaediaalntth
H ealth is a treasure. Of all our pos- blame it on Fate—inhaling the 29-plus
sessions it is the most precious. poisons in cigarette smoke killed me. If
Wealth, learning, and honor are dearly I indulge often in fat-rich foods, it’s FAT
purchased at the loss of vigor and health. not FATE that clogged my arteries.
None of these can secure happiness if
health is lacking. We live in an orderly universe that is
subject to the law of cause and effect. If
It is possible to be as vital and alive at you throw a stone off a cliff the law of
61 as at 16. We can arise each morning gravity will make it fall. If you stand in
with renewed vigor and strength, bub- the rain you will get wet. When the key
bling over with enthusiasm and energy. is turned in the ignition the car will start.
We can enjoy each day to its fullest. This If it does not, there is a reason. This law
is not done with a magic potion or some is also true of our health. It is sometimes
will-o’-the-wisp fountain of youth, but hard to see the cause and effect relation-
is possible through carefully applying ship between the laws of health and the
the simple basic principles that we will consequences of disregarding them, sim-
be studying. As you come to understand ply because the effects are not immediate.
them more clearly, the challenge will But the day of reckoning will come. The
be to decide how to put them to work decisions and actions of today have a
effectively. Each discovery becomes a serious impact on the future. Even smok-
key that opens a treasure chest full of the ing two packs of cigarettes a day doesn’t
riches of life. cause lung cancer or emphysema in one
week. Too often this lack of immediate
Some people think that health is like a effects causes us to conclude that there
game of chance—that “when your num- are no effects, and we end up living for
ber comes up” you will die. Others con- today at the expense of tomorrow.
ceive of length of life as preordained—
“when the finger of Fate points at you” The more scientific evidence that
life is over. But science demonstrates, and comes in, the more indication there is
the Bible teaches, that no finger of Fate that we bring many of our diseases upon
points at us. If I contract lung cancer as ourselves. To a large degree sickness and
the result of smoking cigarettes I can’t disease are caused by poor health habits.

2  s  RADIANT LIVING

We could live much longer if our lifestyles has been endowed with the capacity to
did not lead to life-shortening illnesses. We resist disease, and does it well when not
now know that heart disease, cancer, and hindered by unhealthy lifestyle habits.
stroke are largely preventable. Habits such Practice what is good, and avoid what is
as smoking, drinking, and overindulging harmful; give your body every advantage
in high-fat high-cholesterol foods bring us in its endeavor to stay healthy and well.
to the grave before our time.
Nature, unhindered, does her work
“Whatsoever a man soweth that shall wisely and well. Those who persevere
he also reap.” (Galatians 6:7). in obedience to her laws will reap the
rewards in health of mind and body.s
Learn to cooperate with your body. It

Contents

Jerry’s New Beginning . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Experience of an Addict . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Radiant Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Diabetes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Steps to Radiant Living . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Osteoporosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Obesity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Nutrition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Benefits of Charcoal . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Exercise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Hope for the Hurting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 True Healing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Sunlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Counterfeit Healing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Temperance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 The Final Healing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 The Bible Says . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Rest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Q&A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Trust in God . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 My Radiant Living Goals . . . . . . . . . 62

NEW START + 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Radiant Living
Gratitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Serving Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Copyright© 2008, 2011 by Family Heritage Books
Schedule for a Healthy Lifestyle . . . . . . 21 P.O. Box 232, Wildwood, GA 30757.

The Radiant Person . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Cover design and inside design by Frank Strack, of Design
A Healthy Attitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Concepts and Consulting. Compiled and edited by Family
A Happy Family . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Heritage Books. The text of this book is selected from Proof
Modern Lifestyle Challenges . . . . . . 30 Positive by Neil Nedley, M.D., Health Power by Aileen
Ludington, M.D., Hans Diehl, Dr. HSc, MPH, Pathways to
Cardiovascular Disease . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Health and Happiness by E.G. White. We highly recommend
Cancer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 these resources for those desiring further information.
High Blood Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Alcohol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 All other materials are compiled by the editorial staff. Pho-
Tobacco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 tography pp. 1, 2,6,9,18,52,55 by Shirley Engel; All photos
Habits and Addictions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 used in this publication are copyrighted.

The information given in this magazine is intended to help
adults make informed decisions about their health. It is not
designed to replace medical diagnoses or treatment. If you
suspect that you have a medical problem, we urge you to
seek competent medical help.

  RADIANT LIVING  s  3

RASDTIAENPTS LTOIVING

W e want to feel alive and Nutrition
energetic, look forward to Exercise
each new day, and enjoy optimum Water
health. To accomplish this, each of Sunshine
us must assume responsibility in an Temperance
intelligent way for our own well- Air
being; yet, we do not have the years Rest
of training and experience it takes Trust In God.
to be a physician. What can we do
to take charge of our health? Applied individually, each health prin-
ciple is very effective; but combined, the
Is there a simple plan that can be benefits are multiplied beyond what each
followed by those interested in vibrant one by itself could do.
health and wellness? Yes, there is!
The Weimar Institute in California
has developed a conditioning program
built on eight basic concepts proven
to decrease your risk of disease, and
strengthen your body. These principles
provide the foundation for dealing
with any health condition success-
fully. Weimar created the acronym
NEWSTART© to make them easier to
remember. NEWSTART© stands for:

4  s RADIANT LIVING

N uewtrSTitAiRoTn Carbohydrates. These are the primary
How would you like to enjoy tasty source of energy for every action and
satisfying meals, normalize your weight, process in the body.
and enhance your health all at the same
time? It’s possible! There is a wide Carbohydrates come in two forms: sugar
variety of delicious foods that are both and starch. Sugars are digested quickly
healthful and appetizing. and—unless fiber is present to slow things
down—enter the blood stream as glucose
Food is vital to our health. It provides within minutes. Starches provide energy for
the building blocks for growth and repair, a longer period of time because they must
and fuel for energy. It is a key element in be changed to sugar during the digestive
the length and quality of life. Poor diet process. They should constitute the largest
contributes to weight gain, heart disease, percentage of the diet, but be careful of the
cancer, and a host of other diseases. source. When foods are refined the fiber is
removed.This results in a denser concentra-
Understanding Food tion of calories, making it easier to eat more
than you can use. These excess calories are
The food we eat is composed of a converted to fat and stored.
variety of nutrients. Its basic caloric
components are carbohydrates, proteins, Whole grains, potatoes, beans, vegeta-
and fats. bles, and fruits are all excellent sources
of carbohydrates.

FOOD COMPOSITION

MEAT (in percent of calories) (amount per 100grams)
protein fat carb fiber chol
Bacon, cured, cooked 0 g 85 mg
Chicken, whole, roasted 22% 78% 0% 0 g 94 mg
DAIRY 45% 55% 0%
Milk, skim
Cheese, cheddar 40% 4% 56% 0 g 2 mg
NUTS 25% 74% 1% 0 g 105 mg
Almonds, dried
Walnuts, dried 13% 75% 13% 11 g 0 mg
LEGUMES 9% 81% 11% 5 g 0 mg
Lentils, cooked
Pinto beans, cooked 30% 3% 67% 8g 0 mg
GRAINS 24% 3% 73% 8.5 g 0 mg
Rice, brown, cooked
Wheat, whole grain 9% 7% 84% 2 g 0 mg
VEGETABLES 16% 5% 79% 12 g 0 mg
Potato, baked
Broccoli, cooked 11% 1% 88% 2.5 g 0 mg
FRUITS 34% 9% 57% 3g 0 mg
Bananas
Oranges 5% 2% 93% 2.5 g 0 mg
8% 4% 88% 2.5 g 0 mg

  RADIANT LIVING  s 5

Protein. Your body is built largely of High fat foods include meat and dairy
protein. It is the most important compo- products, nuts, and “free fats”— refined
nent of muscles, blood, skin, bones, nails, fats, such as oils and margarines. Low fat
hair, and the internal organs. foods include beans, grains, vegetables,
and fruit.
It is necessary for the growth, mainte-
nance, and repair of the body. Fiber. While technically a carbohy-
drate, fiber contributes no nutrients. It
Protein takes longer to digest than starch. fills you up, thus limiting calorie intake.
It is broken down in the digestive system It slows down the digestion of sugar, and
into amino acids which the body then uses speeds up the time it takes food to digest,
to build its own proteins. Ideally it should which keeps it from decaying before it
make up about 8 percent of the diet.1 Ex- is eliminated. Fiber also binds with cho-
cess protein is changed to uric acid and lesterol and removes it from circulation.
eliminated, or converted to glucose and Unrefined plant foods contain enough
used for fuel. fiber to properly regulate digestion.

Good sources of protein include seeds Micronutrients. Vitamins, minerals,
and nuts, whole grains, legumes (beans and other micronutrients are substances
and peas), dark green leafy vegetables, the body needs in small amounts to
and potatoes. work properly and stay healthy. It has
been proven that a diet of pure carbohy-
Fat. These fatty acids are necessary
for the proper performance of the body. drates, protein,
They help to ab- and fat without
sorb certain vita- the micronutri-
mins, make food ents will result
taste good, and in death. When
give a feeling foods are re-
of satisfaction fined, the ma-
after you have jority of both
finished eating. vitamins and
They also regu- minerals are
late many body removed. For
processes such instance, when
as normal cell wheat is refined
growth, nerve to make white
functions, and flour, twenty-
immune system four vitamins
response. and minerals are lost; when it is “en-
riched” five of the lost micronutrients
However, moderation is important. Fat are replaced.
is the most difficult nutrient for the diges- Phytochemicals. Literally “plant
tive system to handle, and takes four to chemicals,” these are substances found in
five hours to leave the stomach. It should plants that, among other benefits, lower
comprise no more than 25 percent of the the risk of cancer. Most work by either
diet.2 Excess fat is simply stored to be
used as a backup source of fuel.

6  s  RADIANT LIVING

blocking carcinogens from affecting the
cells or by suppressing malignant cells.
Phytochemicals are usually destroyed
when foods are refined.

A Diet of Excess ting enough protein. However, research
shows that this emphasis has been mis-
Most of the diseases that plague our placed. Rather than most people getting
society today, including heart disease, too little protein, Westerners eat two to
hypertension, cancer, osteoporosis, and three times more than they need. The
diabetes, are closely connected to our respected nutritional scientist Dr. Mark
dietary habits. The typical American Messina, formerly of the National Cancer
meal is high in fat, protein, and refined Institute’s Diet and Cancer branch, sums
carbohydrates, such as sugar and white it up. He says, “When people eat several
flour, and low in unrefined carbohy- servings of grains, beans, and vegetables
drates, such as natural fruits, whole throughout the day and get enough
grains, and vegetables. calories, it is virtually impossible to be
deficient in protein.”3
In the last hundred years the inci-
dence of heart disease and stroke has Excess protein in the body leaches
risen from 15 percent to 45 percent calcium from the bones and is the major
of all causes of death. The occurrence cause of osteoporosis. In one study men
of cancer has risen from 6 percent to on low (48g), medium (95g), and high
25 percent. This rise in disease is di- (142g) protein diets were given 1400
rectly related to diet. In countries where mg of calcium per day for four months.
people do not have access to a western The low protein group gained 20 mg of
diet there is a much lower incidence of calcium per day. The medium protein
these diseases. group lost 30 mg of calcium per day,
and the high protein group lost 70 mg
Americans are dying from a diet of ex- of calcium per day.4 Too much protein
cess: too much fat, too much protein, too also causes deterioration of kidney func-
much cholesterol, too much sugar, and tion, and is linked to increased risk of
too much salt. We eat too many calories cancer. Research and epidemiological
and we eat too often. studies correlate high protein intake with

Fat. Most people don’t realize that they
are consuming an average of 37 percent
of their daily calories [food energy] as
fat. This is much more than the body
can properly handle. Excess fat has been
identified as the most damaging ele-
ment of the western diet and is a major
contributor to heart disease, cancer, and
diabetes.

Protein. For many years there has been
an emphasis in nutritional science on get-

  RADIANT LIVING  s  7

increased growth rates and decreased Designing Delightful
life span. Nutrition
Salt. We eat 10-20 times more salt than
is needed. It contributes prominently to Here is a practical plan that provides a
high blood pressure, heart failure, and complete balance of essential nutrients
kidney disease. The body needs only for radiant good health
about one tHenotwheovfear,tethasapt odorans(t1ic/2 gram) of
salt a day. a change 1. Eat a wide variety of fruits, grains,
is unrealistic for most people. A more vegetables, legumes, seeds, and nuts
reasonable goal is to cut back from two prepared in a simple tasty way. There are
to four teaspoons (10-20 grams) a day to hundreds of varieties and colors, in every
one teaspoon (5 grams) per day. imaginable texture, shape, and flavor.
Sugar. Devoid of fiber and nutrients, Eating a varied selection of natural plant
refined sugars are empty calories that foods will furnish all the nutrients the
account for up to 20 percent of many peo- body requires. For maximum health and
ple’s daily caloric intake. They produce a energy, the human body needs a low fat,
quick rise in blood sugar and energy. This moderate protein, high carbohydrate diet
causes the body to overreact and flood with sufficient micronutrients and fiber.
the system with insulin, which drops the See the daily food guide pyramid for help
blood sugar too fast and too far, causing in planning balanced menus.
low blood sugar and an energy dip, often
accompanied by a feeling of faintness and 2. Avoid protein from animal sourc-
hunger. Jumping through the day from es. Animal products provide an excess of
“sugar highs” to “sugar blues” is a way fat, cholesterol, and protein; they often
of life for many people. carry harmful viruses and bacteria, as
Empty calorie foods. Many beverages well as hormones, antibiotics, and other
such as soda pop, beer, sweetened coffee chemical concentrations.
and tea, and other drinks are loaded with
calories. These, along with high-sugar 3. Limit fat, sugar, and salt. Select
high-fat snacks, not only add thousands naturally sweet foods such as dried fruit
of unnecessary calories, but take the place rather than refined sugar, and choose
of nutritional food, leaving you over- olives, nuts, and avocados—all in moder-
caloried and undernourished. ation—rather than refined fats and oils.
The original diet intended for man
consisted of grains, fruits, nuts, and veg- 4. Eat a good breakfast, a moderate
etables. (See Gen.1:29; 3:18). Prepared lunch, and a light supper—or skip the
as simply as possible, they are the most evening meal. A large breakfast contain-
healthful and nourishing foods available. ing a proper balance of nutrients will
They give longevity, strength, endur- give you steady energy all morning. Ac-
ance, intellectual acuity, and freedom cording to the notable Alameda County
from disease. study, eating breakfast has nearly as
much of a positive impact on health and
longevity as abstinence from tobacco.5
Timing is an important factor in dietary
health. Food eaten in the morning is used
during the day. Taken in the evening, it
is stored as fat. Studies have shown that

8  s  RADIANT LIVING

people have lost as much as ten pounds diet, it is best to just keep meals simple
a month merely by timing their meals and uncomplicated. You don’t have to
correctly.6 A heavy supper in the evening be a gourmet chef to prepare appetiz-
also increases the number of fat particles ing meals.
in your blood, setting you up for a heart
attack while you sleep. Bear in mind that our sense of taste is
very overstimulated with the high-fat,
5. Allow at least five hours between high-sugar, high-salt, processed foods
meals, and eat meals at the same time many of us are used to. It takes a little
each day. This gives your digestive sys- while to adjust to simply prepared meals,
tem the opportunity to work efficiently and it is important to persevere. It may
and rest between cycles. take several months to retrain the taste-
buds. However, forcing yourself to eat
6. Don’t eat between meals. This things you really don’t like is counter-
slows down digestion so that food in the productive. Utilize those natural foods
stomach ferments and produces toxins. which you enjoy, but periodically go
It normally takes four to five hours for back and try some of the foods you’ve
food to leave the stomach after a meal. rejected—you may find that they become
In one study a person was given snacks much more edible as your appreciation
every hour-and-a-half after breakfast. for different flavors increases.
Thirteen hours later a large portion of
the breakfast was still undigested.7 1. Nedley N. Proof Positive Ardmore, OK Neil Nedley M.D. 1999
p. 186.
Each time food is put into the stomach
it stops the digestion process, mixes 2. Ibid p. 186.
everything up, and forces the stomach to 3. Messina M, Messina V, Setchell KD. The Simple Soybean and
start over. Beverages with calories should
not be consumed between meals for the Your Health Garden City Park, NY: Avery Publishing Group,
same reason; those calories interrupt the 1994 p.24.
digestion as well. 4. Linkswiler HM, Zemel MB, et al. Fed Proc 1981 Jul:40(9):2429-
2433.
How do you implement this nutri- 5. Belloc NB, Breslow L. Prev Med 1972 Aug;1(3):409-421.
tional plan? When you shop, choose 6. Carter JP, Brown J. Journal of the Louisiana State Medical Society
fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grain 1985; 137(6):35-38.
bread and pasta, low sugar cereals, 7. Ludington, Aileen MD, Diehl, Hans Dr. HSc MPH. Health Power
brown rice, raw nuts and seeds, dried Hagerstown, MD:Review and Herald Pub. Co., 2000 P.154.
fruit without sugar coating, etc. If you
buy prepared foods, read the labels EN wxeStracrtis e
and avoid foods high in fat, sugar, salt, We are created for action, and it is
and spices. Even some “health” foods impossible to be truly well without it!
may be high in these things. When you The adage “Use it or lose it” applies to
cook, avoid frying—boil, steam, or every part of the body. Exercise provides
bake instead. Cook grains and beans greater vitality, extra energy, and longer
well, fruits and vegetables lightly. life. Yet, for many, the greatest exertion
While there are many good cookbooks of the day is getting out of bed or walk-
available to help you with a plant based ing from the kitchen to the garage. As a
result of our more sedentary habits, we
must deliberately incorporate physical
activity into our lives.

  RADIANT LIVING  s  9

Exercise is critically important to a and stiffness of osteoarthritis by deliver-
total lifestyle approach to health. Here are ing blood to the joints, and can relieve
some of the benefits of exercise: headaches.

❂  Exercise helps us feel good. It is ❂  Exercise strengthens the bones,
so effective that it is a valuable tool for helping them retain calcium and other
fighting depression and relieving anxiety minerals, thus aiding in the prevention
and stress. of osteoporosis.

❂  Exercise increases energy levels, ❂  Exercise helps protect from heart
making us more efficient and productive disease by strengthening the heart, de-
in all that we do. creasing blood pressure and heart rate,
and lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol
❂  Exercise helps one to reach and while raising HDL (good) cholesterol.
maintain proper weight. It burns calo-
ries, builds muscle, and increases the ❂  Exercise aids digestion and pro-
metabolism. motes intestinal activity, reducing gas
and constipation.
❂  Exercise stimulates the immune
system. This decreases not only cold Ex1e. rCchiescek Ewisthseynoutriadlosctor before
and flu infections, but also significantly
reduces cancer mortality rates.1 starting a vigorous exercise program if
you have cardiovascular disease or are
❂  Exercise enhances circulation, over 40 with multiple cardiovascular risk
which in turn improves memory and factors. The risks of physical activity are
mental ability, and promotes better sleep
and faster healing. It decreases the pain

Benefits of Walking

Walking, although one of the simplest exercises; has several surprising advantages:
❂  Walking uses almost all of the body’s 206 bones and 640 muscles.
❂  It is something that almost everyone can do without learning new skills.
❂  It does not require the purchase of expensive equipment.
❂  It is easy on your joints.
❂  The pace is simple to adjust.
❂  It can be done anywhere from shopping malls to the great outdoors.
❂  You can get your fresh air and sunshine at the same time if you are
walking outside.
❂  Walking lends itself to socializing; make exercise fun by including family, friends,
and your dog.
❂  Invest in a good pair of walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.

10  s  RADIANT LIVING

very low compared to the health benefits. WNe a Sttearrt
Many more people rust out than wear out. What can be sweeter than a freshly
bathed baby; or more refreshing than a
2. Make physical activity a part of cool glass of water on a scorching hot
your life: grow a garden; choose to walk day? Water is an all purpose cleanser both
rather than ride; always use the most inside and out. It is an abundant and effec-
distant parking space; take the stairs; tive agent for washing away dirt, germs,
play active games with the kids; use a and bacteria.
push mower; walk the dog. In addition to
these activities, choose an exercise that The skin is one of the organs the body
you will enjoy such as walking, swim- uses to eliminate waste products. If these
ming, or cycling; if you enjoy it you are impurities are allowed to remain on the
more likely to make it a permanent part skin they can cause illness. A clean body
of your life. and surroundings are indispensable for
physical and mental health.
3. Establish an exercise routine. Pick a
time of day that’s best for you and keep A glass of water acts as a bath for the
that exercise appointment as if it were a digestive system, cleansing and refreshing
business engagement. Exercise is cumu- it. Other beverages are unable to purify
lative. Three ten minute sessions are just like water. Soda and coffee can no more
as good as one thirty minute period. clean the inside of your body than they
can the outside.
4. Always start with a low intensity
exercise to let your body warm up. Then As oil is to a car engine so water is
do a few stretching exercises using a to the body, the universal lubricant that
slow, steady movement. makes everything else work. All the func-
tions of the body depend on water.
5. End with a low intensity exercise to
cool down, and more stretching to avoid
soreness and enhance flexibility.

6. You need at least 30 minutes of ex-
ercise every day. If daily exercise is not
possible, try for three times a week on
nonconsecutive days. Alternating aerobic
exercise with strength training is now
recommended as the most complete and
beneficial program.

7. Remember, you aren’t in competi-
tion with anyone, so don’t push beyond
your tolerance. Excessive exercise is
not healthy.

1. Paffenbarger RS Jr. JAMA 1984 Jul 27;252(4):491-495.

  RADIANT LIVING  s  11

A lack of water dehydrates the fluids, harmful. While it is true that excessive
tissues, and cells of the body. It causes sunlight can increase the risk of skin can-
the blood to thicken, increasing the risks cer and cataracts, sunshine in moderate
of stroke and heart disease. Insufficient amounts has many benefits.
water can mimic hypoglycemia, caus-
ing headaches, tiredness, and fainting ❂  Sunlight converts cholesterol
spells. into vitamin D, lowering the blood
cholesterol. Vitamin D provides a host
The body loses ten to twelve cups of of advantages to the body, including
water every day. The food we eat provides prevention of many types of cancer and
two to four cups of water, so we need better calcium absorption, which in turn
to drink six to eight glasses each day to helps prevent osteoporosis and tooth
replace the difference. decay, makes stronger denser bones,
and speeds bone repair.
Pure plain water is the best way to
replace the fluid you need. Many sugar ❂  Sunlight kills many germs and
laden beverages actually result in a loss enhances the immune system by in-
of water from the system; it requires creasing gamma globulin, and raising
more water to metabolize the sugar in the number and effectiveness of the
a drink than it can provide. Caffeine white blood cells which destroy germs.
and alcohol are both diuretics which Lightly tanned skin kills germs and
cause the body to lose water. You need resists infection much better than un-
an extra glass of water for every high- tanned skin. Many skin diseases respond
sugar, caffeinated, or alcoholic beverage well to controlled doses of sunlight.
you drink.
❂  Sunlight soothes the nervous
Drinking water with meals dilutes the system and is important in treating de-
gastric juices and slows the digestive pression. It gives a sense of well-being
process. The best time to drink water is by increasing endorphin production in
between meals, beginning an hour after the brain.
eating, until fifteen minutes before the
next meal. ❂  Sunlight strengthens the car-
diovascular system. It improves the
Water is a remarkable aid in the circulation, lowers the heart rate, and
treatment of disease. When you are ill normalizes the blood pressure and blood
drink plenty of water. This replaces any sugar, bringing highs down and lows up.
fluid lost during a fever and insures that
every part of your body will function ❂  Sunlight aids in weight loss, in-
well. Frequent showers will prove to creasing the metabolism by stimulating
be helpful as well. thyroid production.

SNew u tanrtl ight ❂  Sunlight improves sleep. Natural
Sunshine has gotten some bad pub- light exposure in daytime increases
licity recently; the impression has been melatonin output at night.
given that even small amounts of sun are
❂  Sunlight enhances waste elimina-
tion by improving liver function; it is
an effective treatment for jaundice. It
relieves the kidneys of some of their
burden by eliminating wastes through

12  s  RADIANT LIVING

the skin when you
sweat.

Moderate work or
exercise outdoors
every day will se-
cure these benefits
and more. We re-
ceive the sun’s rays
even on cloudy days;
however ordinary
window glass filters
out 95 percent of
the useful ultraviolet
light.

What About Skin Cancer? More is not always better. Work,
exercise, rest, eating, and sunshine are
Sun should be taken in moderation. all beneficial and necessary; but any
Overexposure to sunlight is a major of them taken to extremes becomes
risk factor for skin cancer. Melanoma, a harmful. Overeating, even of the most
quickly spreading skin cancer that is fatal healthy foods is detrimental. Exercise is
in 20 percent of cases, is associated with indispensable to living healthfully, but
lack of regular sun exposure and repeated overexertion can cause injury.
burning of the skin.Avoid sunburn like the
plague. Get your sunshine in small doses Anything that harms the body is
and take great care between 10 A.M. and counterproductive to good health. Do
3 P.M., particularly in summer when the not use tobacco, alcohol, drugs, or
sun is strongest. caffeinated drinks. Avoid things that
are harmful to you personally: foods
Excessive sunshine, especially sunburn, to which you are sensitive, or which
increases your risk of skin cancer. How- contribute to a disease you are fighting;
ever, sunlight provides so many benefits risky behaviors or activities; as well
that avoiding it is not a healthy choice. as certain people and thought patterns.
This rule simply stated is, “First, do
At least ten minutes of sunlight per no harm.”
day is necessary to maintain good health.
Any exposure of more than this should Self-restraint is easily said, but it
be based on your individual skin tone. is an elusive goal for most of us. It is
sobering and alarming to realize that
TNews e mart perance often we really are not in control of
The word temperance, when used in ourselves, that we are slaves to some
the context of health, has three very dis- appetite or habit. When you find that
tinct meanings: moderation in the use of what you will to do you don’t have the
that which is good, total abstinence from power to accomplish, there is hope. See
that which is harmful, and self-restraint. Habits and Addictions p. 40.

  RADIANT LIVING  s  13

A N e wST   RiTr  gives a sense of happiness and well-being
Ripples on the lake, butterflies, and by altering brain levels of serotonin. It
bird songs remind us of the bounties of promotes quality sleep, and kills bacteria
fresh air. Air is the most vital element and viruses in the air. Pollution causes air
for man and animals. One may live for to lose these capabilities.
weeks without food, or days without
water, but deprived of air he will perish Environmental impurities affect people
within minutes. in a number of ways. Symptoms include
sore throats, burning eyes, coughing,
The human body must have oxygen; sluggishness, nausea, headaches, dizzi-
each of its 100 trillion cells must receive ness, exhaustion, and depression. Pol-
steady, fresh supplies to survive. Every lution is also associated with increased
day you take more than 17,000 breaths to asthma, and other respiratory problems,
keep your body fueled. The heart sends and many of these contaminants have
blood to the lungs where it drops off been linked to increased rates of cancer
carbon dioxide for elimination and picks and other illnesses.
up fresh oxygen for delivery to every cell
in the body. In closed areas the same air can be
breathed and rebreathed, over and over.
Fresh air has many health benefits. It The oxygen content decreases, and
improves the brain’s ability to function; the carbon dioxide and other wastes
gives clarity to the mind, improves con- increase. When we breathe this stale
centration, and boosts learning abilities. It air, the supply of oxygen is insufficient
to keep the cells fueled. Devitalized air

14  s RADIANT LIVING

increases tension, anxiety, irritability, deeply and speeds up the circulation of
and headaches. It promotes depression oxygen-rich blood throughout the body;
and chronic feelings of fatigue and this saturates each cell with oxygen.
exhaustion.
Whenever possible, exercise outside in
Endeavor to get as much fresh air as the morning when the air is cleanest.
you can every day. Here are some sug- ❖ Posture
gestions that may be helpful.
❖ Ventilation The way we stand and sit affects the
amount of air the lungs can hold. When
Open the windows or set heating and we sit up straight and “walk tall” we
air conditioning units to bring in fresh allow them to enlarge and work at full
air. Air out your house everyday. Keep capacity. When we habitually stoop or
proper ventilation in mind wherever you slouch it is impossible to breath deeply.
are. Avoid car exhaust, tobacco smoke, Superficial breathing soon becomes a
and stuffy ill-ventilated rooms. habit and the lungs loose their power to
❖ Deep breathing expand and receive a sufficient supply
of oxygen.
Take several deep breaths to clear the ❖ Clothing
mind and increase the energy level.
1. Find the freshest air available. Go What we wear affects the amount
of oxygen available for our use. Loose
outdoors if possible. comfortable clothing allows the lungs
2. Stand erect. freedom to inflate; tight, constrictive
3. Draw as much air into your lungs as clothing around the abdomen tends to
restrict breathing.
they will hold. Imagine it going right ❖ Plants
down into your belly. Feel your stom-
ach expand. From the rainforest, to the city park,
4. Hold your breath for a few seconds. to the home, plants serve the very
5. Empty your lungs as completely as important function of recycling the at-
possible; use your stomach muscles to mosphere. They absorb carbon dioxide
gently push out the last bit of air. from the air and produce oxygen for
6. Repeat the process five or six times. us to breathe. Some provide the added
7. Take a fresh air break several times advantage of removing toxic pollutants
daily. from the air.
Most people use less than half of their ❖ A rural environment
lung capacity. They are not getting all
the potential benefits from the air they Fresh air has a different chemical
breathe. Consciously use your stomach makeup from the indoor air most of
muscles to fill and empty your lungs us breathe; it is ionized or electrically
several times a day, and deep breathing charged, which is the primary reason
will soon become a habit. for its multitude of health advantages.
❖ Exercise This air is produced in natural settings,
A good workout forces you to breathe around trees and moving water, in sun-
light, and after thunderstorms.

  RADIANT LIVING  s 15

Fresh country air soothes the nerves, “Casting all
stimulates the appetite, and induces sound your care upon
refreshing sleep.
him; for he
If you are fighting sickness, fresh air, careth for you.”
in combination with the other principles
of health, is a powerful remedy. 1 Peter 5:7

RNewsta te st
A vital part of a healthful lifestyle is
getting the right quantity and quality
of sleep. This is when the body grows,
repairs damage, and restores energy, pre-
paring itself for another day of activity.

When the body is deprived of sleep,
it is unable to rebuild and recharge itself
adequately. There is an increase in ir-
ritability, while creativity, concentration
and efficiency suffer. Sleep deprivation
impairs judgment, causing values and
priorities to change. Continued loss of
sleep can result in exhaustion, depression,
delusions, paranoia, and hallucinations.
Losing as little as three hours of sleep in
a single night can cut the effectiveness
of your immune system in half. Slowed
reaction time and decreased concentra-
tion lead to an increase in accidents, both
fatal and nonfatal. Estimates suggest that
as many as 30 percent of fatal automobile
accidents are caused by a driver falling
asleep at the wheel. In a classic health
study it was found that people who
regularly slept seven to eight hours each
night had a lower death rate than those
who slept less than that.

In the U.S. fatigue is one of the most
common reasons for visiting a physician.
Many people have been sleepy for so long
that they don’t know what it’s like to feel
wide awake. Do you nod off whenever
you’re not active, need an alarm clock

16  s  RADIANT LIVING

to wake up, or sleep longer on your days thankful for the blessings in your life.
off ? If so, you are probably not getting Our bodies require more than just a
enough sleep.
daily period of sleep. At creation God
Here are some ways to improve the provided for a weekly rest, the Sabbath.
quality of your sleep: This gives us a whole day without work,
when the week’s cares are set aside for
1. Follow a regular exercise pro- quality time with God and our families.
gram, preferably in the fresh air and This is indispensable for total health—
sunshine. The body will rest better if it’s like an oasis in the midst of our
it has been active. busy lives. If we work continuously, we
impose a strain upon our health and set
2. Don’t eat a heavy evening meal. ourselves up for disease. A longer pe-
When the body has to finish the digestion riod of recreation and relaxation is also
process after you go to bed, you won’t get important from time to time to refresh
the proper quality of rest. and renew us.

3. Have a regular sleeping schedule. TNewstar rust in God
Go to bed at the same time and get up What do faith, religion, and trust in
at the same time, including weekends. God have to do with health? The list
Studies show that the most efficient sleep of benefits is extensive. Research has
occurs between 9:00 P.M. and 12:00 shown that spirituality helps to control
midnight. stress, strengthen the immune system,
and protect against heart disease and
4. Before bedtime relax your body and cancer. Beyond these scientifically
mind. Take a warm bath; drink a cup of verifiable benefits, God promises eternal
herbal tea, such as catnip or hops; enjoy life to those who trust Him—a life of
some quiet reading or soft music; do perfect health and freedom from pain,
something pleasant and soothing. fear, and death.

5. Avoid stimulants like radio, televi- But can I trust Him? Does He even
sion, tobacco, and caffeine. exist, and if so, does He care about me
personally? Before you can trust any-
6. Avoid upsetting arguments, con- one—God or man—you have to get to
versations, and confrontations in the know him, observe his personality and
evening. Before bedtime set your worries character, communicate and interact with
and anxieties aside. Ask forgiveness and him, and consider how he treats others
make restitution to those you may have and whether he keeps his promises.
hurt—obtain a clear conscience. Before you can trust God, you need to
become acquainted; talk, listen, and work
7. Refrain from alcohol; it interferes with Him; investigate how He deals with
with the body’s ability to rebuild itself His children. He longs to develop a close
while you are sleeping. Check your personal relationship with you. He invites
medications for side effects that interfere
with sleep.

8. A cool, dark, comfortable, tidy, and
quiet sleeping area with an abundant
supply of fresh air will soothe the body
and encourage rest.

9. As you go to sleep, take time to be

  RADIANT LIVING  s  17

you to come to Him on a daily basis and for the happiness and well-being of all
learn of Him. His creatures. His love and wisdom can
be seen in His created works. Though
Listening to God the earth bears evidence of the curse
of sin and only dimly reflects the Cre-
Ask Him to give you spiritual insight ator’s glory, His object lessons are not
so that you may hear and understand what obliterated. Nature still speaks of her
He is saying to you. Here are some of the Creator; imperfect and blighted though
more common ways God speaks to us: she may be, His craftsmanship may still
be recognized.
❂  Through the Bible. This book is
God’s disclosure of His own character ❂  Through others. Like the moon
and His love for mankind. He reveals reflecting the light of the sun, genuine
the true story of the conflict between Christians can give you a small glimpse
Himself and Satan and how it has played of what He is like. However, the likeness
out through history. It is also the original of Christ in them may be partial, incom-
true source for knowing Christ. plete, or even distorted. It is better to look
to the Source.
❂  Through the life of Christ. God
sent His Son into the world so we might ❂  Through providence—God’s
have a clearer picture of His personality personal care, protection, and guid-
and character. Christ’s life of compassion, ance. God intervenes in our lives; He
courtesy, and service to others here on leads, cares for, and protects us. If you
this earth culminated in His death on the look back over your life you may be able
cross, the most vivid portrayal of God’s to recognize some of the times when He
love ever seen. has worked to get your attention and tell
you He loves you.
❂  Through nature. God created the
wonderful and beautiful things of nature What about the trials of life; where is
God when my world is falling apart?

Always look at trials through the
lens of Calvary. God’s love for you was
proven at the cross; “But God commen-
deth his love toward us, in that, while
we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
(Romans 5:8). He can never act toward
you in a way other than love. This divine
love combined with His perfect wisdom
and unlimited power insures that His de-
cisions are always right. God invariably
leads His children as they would choose
to be led, if they could see the end from
the beginning.

18  s  RADIANT LIVING

If God is so loving and wise, why a “knowledge of evil.” Those who have
do bad things happen to good and in- experienced pain, disease, and death
nocent people? know first hand what this planet would
be like if Satan were allowed full control.
There are many reasons why bad things Satan hates God, and delights in hurting
happen to good people. Here are a few of those He loves.
the factors that may be at work.
Because of the great controversy
1. Because of our own choices. God between God and Satan the choices
does not force the will of anyone. He and circumstances that affect our lives
respects each person’s right to choose may not be the best, but when we stay
whether or not they will obey Him and surrendered to His loving care He takes
follow His will by doing as He directs. those less than perfect circumstances and
He lets us experience the results of our works them out for our ultimate benefit.
own choices. He will always give us either strength to
bear our trials or provide a way of escape;
2. Because of the choices of others. He promises, “I am with you always, even
We all have an influence on each other’s unto the end of the world.” (Matthew
lives. The poor choices of Adam and 28:20). When we place ourselves in His
Eve, civil leaders, drunk drivers, and hands He will make all things work to-
our parents, all affect our lives adversely. gether for good. (See Romans. 8:28).
The innocent suffer from other people’s
faulty decisions. Remember, God can see the big picture
where we cannot. We are like children,
3. Because of the violation of natural incapable of understanding decisions for
law. Objects fall; ice is slippery; machin- future good that bring disappointment
ery fails. When the physical laws that now. Rather than staring blindly at your
govern our world are broken, accidents hurts and dashed hopes, seek to understand
happen and people get hurt. God’s perspective in each circumstance.

4. Because of the adversary. Satan is Talking to God
allowed to test the loyalty and commit-
ment of those who claim to be Christians. Prayer is the opening of the heart to
(See Job 1:1-12). Satan maintains that God as to a friend. Come to Him as you
God’s people do not serve Him from love are with your hopes, doubts, and ques-
but because He protects and profits them, tions. Share your concerns, your joys,
that if pain, loss, or temptation come they and struggles.
will reject God and choose Satan as their
ruler. When we come under trial, yet stay Persevere in learning of Him and talk-
true to God, He is vindicated and our faith ing to Him; you will come to experience
is proven to be genuine. When we stop His great unfailing love, His power and
trusting God because of our trials, Satan wisdom, the kindness, beauty, and com-
tells God, “See, they only served You for passion of His character, and the joy of
personal gain.” doing His will. You will learn to trust
Him and know that He loves you and will
When Adam and Eve chose to disobey never harm you. s
God they released Satan to constantly
tempt and torment the human race, and
gained for themselves and their children

  RADIANT LIVING  s  19

NEW START+2

“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken
spirit drieth the bones.” —King Solomon.

T here are two more principles of Serving Others
health beyond the eight NEW
START laws that deserve special men- The great law of life in the universe is
tion. They are gratitude and serving others. a law of service. God provides for every
living thing; Christ came to the earth to
Gratitude serve and give His life for mankind; the
angels are occupied in caring for the
Gratitude is a choice to be thankful needs of humanity. The same law of
and count life’s blessings rather than to service is seen throughout nature. The
dwell on troubles and hardships. Choos- birds and animals, the trees, grass, and
ing to be thankful for the good things in flowers, the sun, moon, and stars—all
life promotes a happier frame of mind. provide something of benefit to others.
To practice this, make a list every night
of at least ten things for which you are Is the world a better place because you
thankful. Gratitude will do wonders for are here? Strive to live a life of service;
any relationship. Expressing thanks to God go out of your way to be kind to someone
fosters trust and love for Him. today. Kindness is rewarding; giving is
a condition of healthy living, a law of
While there are many studies that show mental well-being.
the health benefits of various positive mental
attitudes, one of the most interesting pieces Most of us find that when we’re not
of evidence is the placebo effect. Placebos in good health it’s easy to focus our
are commonly used to test new medicines. attention on our own needs and diffi-
One group is given the new drug while the culties. Yet often getting our minds off
other is given a useless look-alike. Placebo ourselves and working for the good of
subjects often report results as good or bet- others is just what we need to give us
ter than those receiving the real medicine. the strength to get well. It also reminds
Mental outlook has a powerful influence us that we are not the only ones with
on physical health. Attitude can make the problems.
difference in recovery from a major illness.
Implement these changes one step at a
Grief, anxiety, discontent, remorse, time. As each one becomes a habit take
guilt, distrust, anger, fear, and resentment the next step towards improving your
cause stress and wear down the body, health. Finally, don’t force the changes
resulting in a weakened immune system you make on others; just enjoy your new
and poor health. Courage, hope, faith, way of life until your friends and family
sympathy, love, contentment, forgive- desire the improved health which you
ness, joy, and gratitude promote health now have.  s
and prolong life.

20  s  RADIANT LIVING

Schedule for a Healthy Lifestyle

1. Rise early and drink two 8 oz. 9. During the afternoon, drink
glasses of water. 2 to 3 more glasses of water;
remember no snacking.
2. Spend time seeking to know
God through Bible study and 10. Eat a very light evening meal or
prayer. skip supper altogether and take
a walk instead.
3. Plan your day. Arrange to give
of your time and energy in ser- 11. Change your pace in the after-
vice; make someone else feel noon and evening; do something
loved and appreciated. physical if your daytime work is
mental, or vice versa. Schedule
4. Do fifteen minutes to an hour some family time. Drink at least
of exercise. one more glass of water.

5. Take a shower. 12. Before you go to sleep, list
6. Eat a good breakfast. ten things for which you are
7. During the morning, drink 2 thankful.

to 3 eight oz. glasses of water, 13. Go to bed at the same time each
and avoid snacking. evening. One hour’s rest before
8. Eat a moderate lunch, followed midnight is worth two hours of
by a stroll outside. Breathe rest after midnight.
deeply.

  RADIANT LIVING  s  21

The RADIANT

PERSON

22  s RADIANT LIVING

The Four Dimensions of Life

B eyond the laws of radiant health are some broader principles that
include the whole person. Human beings are made up of more than
just a body. The World Health Organization defines health as “a state of
complete physical, mental, and social well being, and not merely the ab-
sence of disease or infirmity.” This definition is incomplete as it leaves out
one significant aspect of life and health— the spiritual. This understanding
is illustrated clearly in Luke 2:52 which tells us that, “Jesus increased in
wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man.” A rough paraphrase
would state that Jesus grew mentally, physically, spiritually and socially.

In the ten steps to health that were covered in the previous section notice
that the last three are not purely physical laws but include areas from the
other dimensions of life that affect physical health. The spiritual practice
of “Trust in God,” the mental attitude of “Gratitude,” and the social skill of
“Helping Others,” all have a positive influence on total health.

Health for the whole person

We cannot be totally well unless every part of us is healthy. In fact the mental,
social, and spiritual factors may be even more involved in causing or fighting
many diseases than are the physical factors. Many of the laws that we listed as
governing physical health apply equally well to the other facets of life.
1. Nutrition—It is necessary to eat to live, not only physically, but also in the
other three dimensions.

Mentally: If new information and ideas are not fed into the mind on a regular
basis the intellect ceases to grow and develop, becoming weak and stunted.
Don’t dwell on the trivial, degrading, or useless; these things can be consid-
ered mental junk food.
Socially: If love, respect, and companionship are not a regular part of your

  RADIANT LIVING  s 23

life, your social capabilities become Mentally: Don’t do anything that
weak and dwarfed. would destroy or pollute your mental
Spiritually: Christians nourish them- faculties.
selves spiritually through Bible Socially: Don’t acquire harmful habits
study, prayer, fellowship, and service or friends, or engage in socially de-
to others. structive behaviors like gossip, criti-
2. Exercise—Activity is a law of life cism, breaking civil laws, or engaging
that is often phrased this way, “Use it in risky, degrading, sexual behaviors.
or lose it.” Spiritually: Don’t destroy your spiri-
Mentally: Intellect, memory, wisdom, tual sensibilities by dwelling on
attitude, and willpower need to be spiritually destructive emotions such
exercised. as hatred, anger, or revenge. Avoid
Socially: Love, tact, the social graces, putting yourself under Satan’s power
communication, and core values grow through occult practices or the rejec-
when they are practiced. tion of the Spirit of God.
Spiritually: The exercise of faith, Second, practice moderation and bal-
prayer, love, and perseverance are ance in things that are good. This involves
essential for spiritual strength and more than just a balance between such
growth. things as activity and rest, logic and
3. Rest—We need to relax and regenerate emotion, solitude and the multitude. It
after activity. also consists of keeping a healthy bal-
Mentally: The mind needs to rest after ance between the four dimensions (men-
periods of intense mental activity in tally, physically, spiritually and socially).
order to recuperate. In addition, a good When one of these areas of life becomes
night’s sleep gives the mind a chance all encompassing or is neglected, the
to reorganize and start afresh. result is an unbalanced and unhealthy
Socially: A time away in privacy and individual.
solitude is necessary after periods of
heavy social interaction. I will sing of your
Spiritually: After intense periods strength, in the morning
of ministry Christ’s servants need I will sing of your love;
to “Come apart and rest awhile” by for you are my fortress,
spending time with Him. Time with
Christ is spiritual rejuvenation. (See my refuge in times of
Mark 6:30,31). trouble...my loving God.
4. Temperance—The basic definition of
this law of life and health is to avoid that Psalm 59:16
which is harmful and practice modera-
tion in that which is healthful. First, do
no harm.

24  s  RADIANT LIVING

Finally, part of being in balance is know- Christ knows and loves each of us
ing what is most valuable and important. as if there was no one else. He longs
There will be times when you will have to for us to accept His offer of salvation.
choose between what is best for one ele- He desires to cleanse us, and make us
ment at the expense of the others. A young whole, that we might achieve the hap-
person might have to choose between piness and abundant life for which we
a career in sports or science. You might were created.
have time to get either physical exercise
or spiritual nourishment but not both. You The Inseparable
make choices based on what you value Four Dimensions
most. Why not make your spiritual dimen-
sion the top priority, and base each decision The four dimensions of life are in-
on how it will affect your spiritual life and separable and so interrelated that what
health? It would be a terrible waste to make affects one part of us affects every other
physical health your highest priority only to part as well.
miss out completely on eternal life and the
associated radiant health Christ promises. Physically: Poor physical health can
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and cloud the mind, depress the attitudes, and
His righteousness; and all these things shall make it more difficult to keep spiritually
be added unto you.” (Matt. 6:33). healthy. Conversely, good health can
5. Water, fresh air, and sunshine— clear the mind and improve the mental
These are all useful for cleanliness, which outlook, promoting enriched spiritual
is a principle that applies equally to all strength and health.
segments of life.
Mentally: Willpower, attitude, and
Spiritually: We need to open our intellect have a decided influence on how
hearts daily to the sunshine of God’s we live our lives and apply or reject the
love, let the pure air of the Spirit flow various laws of health.
into our lives, and be washed in the
cleansing blood of Jesus, accepting Socially: Both the attitudes that
His forgiveness. permeate our homes, and the relation-
Mentally: Likewise, when the mind ships we form, have the power to affect
is polluted and degraded there is help our health
in the principle, “By beholding we
become changed.” But ultimately, Spiritually: The exercise of faith,
only by accepting Christ’s offer to love, hope, prayer, perseverance, and
create in us a new life can the mind be dedication to God will bring peace of
completely cleansed. mind, character growth, and increased
Socially: As Christ changes the life physical health.
and the person sincerely repents,
confesses, apologizes, and makes The study and practice of these ex-
amends, others will realize that this tended health principles will make a
is a new and clean person. difference in the usefulness and quality
of life. Each of these laws with which we
cooperate brings a benefit, but when we
cooperate with all of them the rewards
are multiplied!  s

  RADIANT LIVING  s  25

A Healthy

Attitude

As mentioned already the impor- much to cooperate with the physician’s
tance of a healthy attitude can efforts for their recovery. Often invalids
not be underestimated. The relation that can resist disease simply by refusing
exists between the mind and the body is to yield to ailments and settle down in
very intimate. When one is affected, the a state of inactivity. Rising above their
other sympathizes. The condition of the aches and pains, they should engage in
mind affects the health to a far greater useful activity suited to their strength. By
degree than many realize. Many of the such exercise and the free use of air and
diseases from which men suffer are sunlight, many an invalid might recover
the result of mental depression. Grief, health and strength.
anxiety, discontent, remorse, guilt, and
distrust, all tend to break down the life We are in a world of suffering. Dif-
forces and to invite decay and death. ficulty, trial, and sorrow await us all
along the way to the heavenly home.
Courage, hope, faith, sympathy, and But there are many who make life’s
love, promote health and prolong life. A burdens doubly heavy by continually
contented mind, a cheerful spirit, is health anticipating trouble. Thus they bring
to the body and strength to the soul. “A wretchedness upon themselves and cast
merry [rejoicing] heart doeth good like a shadow upon all around them. Let
a medicine.” (Proverbs 17:22). them look away from the dark picture
to the benefits which God has strewn in
The effect of mental influence should their pathway, and beyond these to the
not be overlooked. By the exercise of unseen and eternal.
the will power in placing themselves
in right relation to life, patients can do When the sunlight of God’s love

26  s RADIANT LIVING

illuminates the darkened chambers surround your soul, look to the place
of the soul, restless weariness and where you last saw the light. Rest in
dissatisfaction will cease, and satisfying Christ’s love and under His protecting
joys will give vigor to the mind and care. Entering into communion with the
health and energy to the body. Savior, we enter the region of peace.

We are not to let the future, with its Nothing tends more to promote health
hard problems, its unsatisfying prospects, of body and of soul than does a spirit of
discourage us. Those who surrender gratitude and praise. Forgetting our own
their lives to His guidance and to His difficulties and troubles, let us praise God
service will never be placed in a position for an opportunity to live for the glory of
for which He has not made provision. His name. Let the fresh blessings of each
Whatever our situation, if we are doers of new day awaken praise in our hearts for
His word, we have a Guide to direct our these tokens of His loving care. When
way; whatever our perplexity, we have you open your eyes in the morning,
a sure Counselor; whatever our sorrow, thank God that He has kept you through
bereavement, or loneliness, we have a the night. Thank Him for His peace in
sympathizing Friend. your heart. Morning, noon, and night,
let gratitude as a sweet perfume ascend
If in our ignorance we make missteps, to heaven.
the Savior does not forsake us. We need
never feel that we are alone. Angels are Often prayer is solicited for the af-
our companions. The Comforter that flicted, the sorrowful, the discouraged;
Christ promised to send in His name and this is right. We should pray that God
abides with us. In the way that leads to will shed light into the darkened mind and
the City of God there are no difficulties comfort the sorrowful heart. But while
which those who trust in Him may not we offer prayer for these sorrowful ones,
overcome. There are no dangers which we should encourage them to try to help
they may not escape. There is not a those more needy than themselves. The
sorrow, not a grievance, not a human darkness will be dispelled from their own
weakness, for which He has not provided hearts as they try to help others.
a remedy.
Let the invalid, instead of constantly
None need abandon themselves requiring sympathy, seek to impart it.
to discouragement and despair. God Let the burden of your own weakness
does not bid us overcome in our own and sorrow and pain be cast upon the
strength. He desires us to lay our per- compassionate Savior. Open your heart to
plexities and troubles at His feet and His love, and let it flow out to others.
leave them there.
The consciousness of right doing is
Often your mind may be clouded be- one of the best medicines for diseased
cause of pain. Then do not try to think. bodies and minds. When the mind is
You know that Jesus loves you. He un- free and happy from a sense of duty well
derstands your weakness. You may do His done and the satisfaction of giving hap-
will by simply resting in His arms. piness to others, the cheering, uplifting
influence brings new life to the whole
When temptations assail you, when being. s
care, perplexity, and darkness seem to

  RADIANT LIVING  s 27

AHappy
FAMILY
An area not often addressed in mod- to temptations. Daily annoyances beset the
ern society is the importance of a path of young and old. Those who would
healthy family unit. Home should be a live patient, loving, cheerful lives must
place where cheerfulness, courtesy, and pray. Only by receiving constant help from
love abide; and where these graces dwell, God can we gain the victory over self.
there will abide happiness and peace.
Troubles may invade, but these are the lot Let the husband and wife study each
of humanity. Let patience, gratitude, and other’s happiness, never failing in the
love keep sunshine in the heart, though the small courtesies and little kindly acts that
day may be ever so cloudy. In such homes cheer and brighten the life. Perfect confi-
angels of God abide. dence should exist between husband and
wife. Together they should consider their
The home should be to the children the responsibilities. Together they should
most attractive place in the world, and the work for the highest good of their children.
mother’s presence should be its greatest Never should they in the presence of the
attraction. Children have sensitive, loving children criticize each other’s plans or
natures. They are easily pleased and easily question each other’s judgment. Let the
made unhappy. By gentle discipline, in wife be careful not to make the husband’s
loving words and acts, mothers may bind work for the children more difficult. Let
their children to their hearts. the husband hold up the hands of his
wife, giving her wise counsel and loving
In the morning before he leaves home encouragement.
for his daily labor, let the father gather his
children about him and, bowing before Children as well as parents have im-
God, commit them to the care of the Father portant duties in the home. They should
in heaven. When the cares of the day are be taught that they are a part of the home
past, let the family unite in offering grate- firm. They are fed and clothed and loved
ful prayer and raising the song of praise, in and cared for, and they should respond
acknowledgment of divine care during the to these many mercies by bearing their
day. Fathers and mothers, however press- share of the home burdens and bringing
ing your business, do not fail to gather all the happiness possible into the family
your family around God’s altar.Ask for the of which they are members.
guardianship of holy angels in your home.
Remember that your dear ones are exposed The mother should cultivate a cheerful,
contented, happy disposition. Every effort

28  s RADIANT LIVING

in this direction will be abundantly repaid Bring them up to have sound constitutions
in both the physical well-being and the and good morals, to have sunny disposi-
moral character of her children. In the chil- tions and sweet tempers. Impress upon
dren committed to her care, every mother their tender minds the truth that God does
has a sacred charge from God. “Take this not design that we should live for present
son, this daughter,” He says; “train it for gratification merely, but for our ultimate
Me; give it a character polished after the good. Above everything else, let parents
similitude of a palace, that it may shine in surround their children with an atmo-
the courts of the Lord forever.” sphere of cheerfulness, courtesy, and love.

The more quiet and simple the life of In the beginning God placed our first
the child, the more favorable it will be to parents amidst the beautiful sights and
both physical and mental development. sounds He desires us to rejoice in today.
At all times the mother should endeavor The more nearly we come into harmony
to be quiet, calm, and self-possessed. with God’s original plan, the more favor-
Many infants are extremely susceptible able will be our position to secure health of
to nervous excitement, and the mother’s body, and mind, and soul. Better than any
gentle, unhurried manner will have a other inheritance of wealth you can give to
soothing influence that will be of untold your children will be the gift of a healthy
benefit to the child. body, a sound mind, and a noble character.

Mothers who desire their boys and Instead of dwelling where only the
girls to possess the vigor of health should works of men can be seen, go where you
dress them properly and encourage them can look upon the works of God. Find rest
in all reasonable weather to be much in of spirit in the beauty and quietude and
the open air. peace of nature. Go where, apart from the
distractions and dissipations of city life,
The importance of training children to you can give your children your compan-
right dietetic habits can hardly be overes- ionship, where you can teach them to learn
timated. The little ones need to learn that of God through His works, and train them
they eat to live, not live to eat. for lives of integrity and usefulness. s

In many cases the sickness of children
can be traced to errors in management.
Irregularities in eating, insufficient cloth-
ing in the chilly evening, lack of vigorous
exercise to keep the blood in healthy cir-
culation, or lack of abundance of air for
its purification, may be the cause of the
trouble. Let the parents study to find the
causes of the sickness, and then remedy
the wrong conditions as soon as possible.

Teach your children from the cradle to
practice self-denial and self-control. Teach
them to enjoy the beauties of nature and
in useful employment to exercise system-
atically all the powers of body and mind.

Modern Lifestyle

Challenges

Cardiovascular Disease

Heart disease and strokes cause nearly
half of all deaths in America, and severely
reduce the quality of life for many people.
Both diseases have the same underlying
cause, which is atherosclerosis, a condi-
tion in which cholesterol, fat, and calcium
harden, narrow, and eventually plug the
arteries. This process takes many years
and gives virtually no clues until the
arteries have 50 to 80 percent blockage.

While there are some risk factors for
cardiovascular disease that we can’t
change, such as age and sex, there are
some that we can do something about.
According to the Framing-ham Heart
Study the six most important modifiable
risk factors are high cholesterol, cigarette
smoking, high blood pressure, obesity,
diabetes, and physical inactivity.

Cholesterol drops heart disease risk to near zero, while
The amount of cholesterol in the blood a level of 25mg/dl or lower raises the risk
very high.
is one of the three most important risk
factors for atherosclerosis. An especially harmful type of choles-
terol (oxidized cholesterol) is found in
Research shows that the risk of death from Parmesan cheese, lard, dry mixes that
heart disease increases when cholesterol contain powdered milk or eggs, such as
exceeds 150mg/dl. However that is not the custard and pancake mixes, and other
whole picture. Cholesterol comes in two processed foods containing cholesterol
forms: LDL (the bad kind) and HDL (the
good kind). HDL actually protects us from
atherosclerosis by removing cholesterol
from the arteries. An HDL level of 75mg/dl

30  s  RADIANT LIVING

and sugar. Some of the chemicals in Mono- unsaturated fats tend to raise
oxidized cholesterol are so toxic they HDL (good) cholesterol. Olive oil is a
can cause irreversible damage to arterial notable source of this type of fat. Even
walls in less than 24 hours. though unsaturated fats have a favorable
effect on cholesterol levels, they should
Another factor is the type of fat in the be used in moderation.
diet. Saturated fat (S) is more effective
at raising cholesterol levels than dietary The type of protein consumed also
cholesterol itself is. Polyunsaturated fat affects cholesterol levels. Animal protein
(P) lowers cholesterol levels; however, it increases blood cholesterol levels while
takes twice as much polyunsaturated fat plant protein decreases it.
to cancel the effects of a given amount Eight Keys to Heart Disease
of saturated fat. A P/S ratio less than 2/1
will raise cholesterol while a ratio of There are eight keys to preventing,
more than 2/1 will lower cholesterol. All treating, and reversing heart disease.
meat and dairy products have a poor P/S They are so effective that if every Ameri-
ratio as do coconuts. Walnuts, almonds, can followed them 90 percent of heart
pecans, and hickory nuts all have high attacks could be prevented.
P/S ratios, with black walnuts topping
the list at a ratio of 10.33/1. When 1. Reduce blood cholesterol. Levels
polyunsaturated fats are hydrogenated, less than 150 mg/dl will reduce the risk
such as in margarine and shortening, of heart attack by 60 to 90 percent.
they raise LDL cholesterol levels.
2. Eat a plant based diet. All the cho-

  RADIANT LIVING  s  31

lesterol we eat comes from animal prod- good results from implementing these
ucts; plant foods contain no cholesterol. principles. As artery blockage reverses,
To remove all cholesterol from the diet angina pains have cleared up, and an
all animal products must be eliminated. active normal life has again become
possible.
3. Increase dietary fiber. It absorbs
cholesterol in the digestive tract and Note: All material taken from; Nedley N. Proof
removes it. Positive Ardmore, OK Neil Nedley M.D. 1999 pp.
55-90.
4. Decrease blood levels of fat. Sugar,
fat, and alcohol increase the amount of fat Cancer
in the blood. Fat promotes plaque buildup
in the arteries and stimulates the blood to Cancer is the number two killer in this
clot, increasing the risk of heart disease. country. More than 1500 people a day
die from cancer—the equivalent of three
5. Stop smoking. Over a period of five jumbo jets crashing each day, every day.
years this will reduce your risk of heart These are appalling statistics, especially
attack by 50 to 75 percent. since many cancers are preventable.
Currently, one in every two men and one
6. Start a regular aerobic exercise in every three women will be diagnosed
program. This raises HDL so effectively with cancer at some time in their lives.1
it can reduce the risk of heart disease by
over 45 percent in those who are unfit. The American Cancer Society defines
cancer as “a group of diseases character-
7. Reach and maintain your ideal ized by uncontrolled growth and spread
body weight. Losing weight can cut heart of abnormal cells.” In a healthy body
disease risk by 35 to 55 percent in those the immune system quickly identifies
who are more than 20 percent over their and destroys cancer cells when they first
ideal weight. occur, but the typical American lifestyle
and diet predispose the body to develop
8. Reduce blood pressure. A ten point cancer by introducing carcinogens to
reduction in blood pressure reduces heart the body and handicapping the immune
disease risk 20 to 30 percent in those with system.
high blood pressure.
Adopting a cancer protective
Many people have experienced very lifestyle can reduce your risk
by up to 90 percent.2 Here are
seven suggestions for success:

1. Avoid factors that favor
cancer development. Use of to-
bacco and alcohol play a part in
about 44 percent of all cancers.
Meat and dairy products, excess
fat, sugar, cholesterol, and sun-
shine have all been linked to one
or more kinds of cancer. Other
cancer causing agents have been

32  s  RADIANT LIVING

“You are what you eat.” The same is also true of the mind:
you are what you THINK and FEEL. And what you think and
feel is largely determined by what you feed your mind—
what you read, what you watch, and what you listen to.
Just as the Creator designed our bodies to run and flourish on a nourishing and whole-
some diet of “good”food, so our minds were designed to run on a similar diet of“good”
mental input: “Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever
things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are
lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any
virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
This is the food God has prescribed for our souls.
Needing a change in your mental and spiritual diet?
Tired of the stuff this media-saturated culture is throwing
your way? Here is your opportunity to indulge your mind
and spirit in the delights of God’s word, the Bible—the
Creator’s“super-food”for strengthening, upbuilding and
restoring the soul. Enroll today in our FREE Bible study
program, and experience the joy and peace of
thinking, feeling, and living a better way.
27 study guides in all!

Return the enclosed response card to order
your FREE Bible study guides or visit www.peacefinders.org.

Find the answers you’ve been looking for in this timeless classic that has helped millions for over 100 years.
The Ministry of Healing will introduce you to the Mighty Healer, Jesus Christ, who brings healing to body
and mind as well as the soul.

You will find this an indispensable guide to …
• Natural Healing • Conquering Stress • Prayer for the Sick • All this and more …
• Disease Prevention • Mental Health • Successful Families
• Nutrition & Diet • Combating Depression • Child Training Order your FREE copy TODAY! To order, please use the
request card enclosed or call 1-800-728-6872.

You can also order your FREE inspirational
resources online at www.peacefinders.org

There is absolutely no cost or obligation for these materials. Allow three to four weeks for delivery.
Please do not request for anyone other than yourself.

Mr Mrs Ms____________________________________________ Please send me the
circle one please print following FREE materials:

Address_______________________________________________ The Ministry of Healing

F REE Bible Study Course

by mail (See front center insert)

P eacefinders Booklet #

One booklet per order please. (See back cover)

I would be interested in classes on
healthy living in my area.

Please pray for me. My request:

City_ _______________________ State______ ZIP______________

Phone______________________ Email______________________

IMPORTANT: DO NOT ENLARGE, REDUCE OR MOVE the FIM and POSTNET barcodes. They are only valid as printed!

You can also order your FREE inspirationalSpecial care must be taken to ensure FIM and POSTNET barcode are actual size AND placed properly on the mail piece
resources online at www.peacefinders.orgto meet both USPS regulations and automation compatibility standards.

There is absolutely no cost or obligation for these materials. Allow three to four weeks for delivery.
Please do not request for anyone other than yourself.

NO POSTAGE
NECESSARY

IF MAILED
IN THE

UNITED STATES

BUSINESS REPLY MAIL
FIRST-CLASS MAIL PERMIT NO. 13 FT COVINGTON NY

POSTAGE WILL BE PAID BY ADDRESSEE

PROJECT: STEPS TO CHRIST INC
PO BOX 131

FORT COVINGTON NY 12937-9995

found in coffee, chocolate3, asbestos, High Blood Pressure
wood dust, and a host of toxic chemicals
from deodorant sprays to pesticides. High blood pressure, or hypertension,
is known as “the silent killer” because
2. Eat a proper diet. A high-fiber there are often no symptoms. It is esti-
low-protein diet featuring a wide variety mated that up to 25 percent of Americans
of fruits and vegetables has many cancer- have this condition, and about half of
inhibiting components. them don’t know it. 1 This is serious;
hypertension is associated with stroke,
3. Eat regular meals with nothing congestive heart failure, heart attack,
between them except water. Research atherosclerosis, aneurysm, kidney dis-
shows that those eating four meals a day ease, disease of the retina, blood vessel
have double the risk of colon and rectal rupture, and weakened memory and
cancer as compared to those who eat only mental ability.
two meals per day.
There are two main categories of high
4. Exercise daily. This will enhance blood pressure: secondary hypertension
your immunity, improve circulation and is caused by other diseases and subsides
digestion, and reduce stress. Physical when these are treated; primary hyperten-
inactivity increases the risk of various sion accounts for 90 percent of all cases
kinds of cancer 30 to 80 percent of high blood pressure and is due to life-
style factors and inherited susceptibility.
5. Obtain moderate sun exposure. It responds well to life-style changes.
It enhances the immune system and de- These need to be made under a doctor’s
creases the risk of various kinds of cancer. supervision if a person is taking a blood
Vitamin D, produced by sunlight on the pressure lowering drug.
skin, suppresses abnormal cell growth.
The following are some methods to
6. Maintain proper weight. Excess lower blood pressure:
body weight can increase cancer risk by
as much as 55 percent. 1. Lose weight. Obesity is one of
the most important contributors to high
7. Learn stress control. Stress de- blood pressure. Sixty to seventy percent
presses the immune system and is a major of hypertension is directly attributed to
risk factor in cancer development. increased body fat.2

Many people have experienced a 2. Utilize a low-salt diet. The body
slowing down or complete disappear- must raise the blood pressure to enable
ance of tumor growth by making these the kidneys to cope with a high salt in-
adjustments. Lifestyle changes should take. Don’t assume that just because you
be a part of any cancer treatment and have taken the salt shaker off the table
maintenance program. you are on a low salt diet. Eighty percent
of our salt comes hidden in processed
1. American Cancer Society website: http://www. foods. Read the labels; educate yourself
cancer.org/ cancerinfo/ sitecenter.asp. on how much salt is in the foods you eat,
and make a specific plan to reduce sodium
2. Nedley N. Proof Positive Ardmore, OK Neil Ned- intake to less than 2,000 mg/day.
ley M.D. 1999 p. 47.

3. Ibid. p.31.
Note: The rest of the material in this section is from
the same source pp. 11-54. The studies cited there are
too numerous to document.

  RADIANT LIVING  s  33

3. Eliminate caffeine, nicotine, system. Heavy usage in men can cause
and alcohol. All of these substan- impotence, testicle shrinkage, and en-
tially raise the blood pressure. larged breasts. In women, it causes
malfunctioning ovaries and irregular
4. Learn to control stress. The menstrual cycles.
stress response in the body raises ❖  Alcohol-use by a pregnant woman can
the blood pressure, and unrelieved cause major damage to her unborn child.
stress keeps it high. Over-work 11,000 U.S. children are born every year
and worry are major contributors with fetal alcohol syndrome and another
to hypertension. 30,000 or more with other alcohol-related
problems. Some of these include vision,
5. Adopt an aerobic exercise hearing, and immune system defects;
program such as brisk walking. mental retardation; growth, balance, and
Exercise at least 3 days a week for coordination problems; and skull, facial,
45 minutes. Exercise strengthens and genital deformities.
the heart and enables it to pump ❖  Alcohol weakens the immune system,
more efficiently. A regular exer- increasing susceptibility to illness and
cise program significantly reduces blood cancer.
pressure. ❖  Alcohol destroys the liver. Nearly
25,000 Americans die each year from
6. Eat oatmeal and green leafy veg- alcohol-induced liver disease.
etables. These have been shown to reduce ❖  Alcohol is a contributing factor in
blood pressure.3 many accidents. Any use of alcohol in-
creases your chances of injury, disability,
1. The fifth report of the Joint National Committee or death.
on Detection, Evaluation and Treatment of High ❖  Alcohol reduces mental performance.
Blood Pressure. (JNC V). Arch Intern Med 1993 It decreases judgement, foresight, and
Jan 25;153(2): 154-183. moral reasoning, and lessens abstract
thinking ability.
2. Nedley, N. Proof Positive Ardmore, OK Neil
Nedley M.D. 1999 p. 136.

3. Ibid. p. 142.

Alcohol

In spite of the recent news hype pur-
porting to show benefits from moderate
drinking, alcohol is a dangerous poison.
In the U.S. it is the second most deadly
drug, coming right after tobacco. An
estimated 100,000 Americans die prema-
turely every year due to its use.

Even the moderate use of alcohol can
inflict widespread damage to both the
individual’s health and society.
❖  Alcohol of any amount in the system
causes alteration and death of brain cells.
❖  Alcohol increases the risk of hyper-
tension, stroke and damage to the heart
muscle.
❖  Alcohol impairs the reproductive

34  s  RADIANT LIVING

The National Council on Alcohol and Tobacco
Drug Dependency says, ”Alcohol is
closely linked with virtually every nega- In 1979, the U.S. public health service
tive aspect of society: suicide, violent called smoking, “The largest single pre-
crime, birth defects, industrial accidents, ventable cause of illness and premature
domestic and sexual abuse, disease, death in the United States.” Tobacco is
homelessness, and death. It is the number the only legal product in the U.S. that,
one drug problem for people from all when used correctly, kills one out of ev-
walks of life. It knows no racial, ethnic, ery four of those who use it. Tobacco is
social, or economic barriers.” responsible for the death of over 450,000
Americans per year—more than all who
What about the studies cited by the die from AIDS, illicit drugs, fires, car
media showing that alcohol is good crashes, and homicides combined.1
for your heart? Studies show that red
wine increases blood flow by making the Tobacco leads to a variety of pain-
blood’s clotting cells, the platelets, less ful and terminal illnesses. The greatest
sticky. Research shows, however, that it number of smoking-related deaths are
is not the alcohol that gives this benefit from heart attack, stroke, and cancer.
but substances, called flavonoids, found Two of the more frightening diseases
in grapes, as well as many other fruits, associated with smoking are emphysema
vegetables, and grains. Grape juice with- and Buerger’s disease. Emphysema is a
out alcohol gives the same effect. It has progressive disease in which the lungs
never been demonstrated that a person are slowly destroyed, resulting in slow
living a healthy lifestyle gains any ad- suffocation. Buerger’s disease, which is
ditional benefit from alcohol. characterized by the clogging and inflam-
mation of the capillaries cuts off the blood
There is one tiny health benefit from supply and can result in gangrene of the
alcohol. It increases HDL (good) choles- fingers and toes.
terol, but so does ingesting some pesti-
cides. The harm outweighs any benefit. Even if tobacco doesn’t kill you out-
right, some of the nonlethal effects are
Considering the numerous health and just as bad. It weakens the bones and
social problems associated with the use is a risk factor for back pain; it causes
of alcohol, drinking is not a wise choice. impotence and premature menopause; it
Try an alcohol time out for thirty days. accelerates hair graying, skin wrinkling,
If you can’t live without it you need to loss of vision, and decreased physical
determine whether you are its master or capacity. Cancer treatment can be painful
its slave. and disfiguring; a heart attack or stroke
can leave you disabled.
The Alcoholics Anonymous organiza-
tion helps men and women who want You have a great deal to gain by kick-
to overcome the alcohol addiction. You ing the habit: longer life, more energy,
can find their number listed in the local fewer medical expenses—and the air is
telephone book. Their buddy system and fresher, breathing is easier, food is more
12 Step Program can help you.* flavorful, money goes farther, you smell
better, and so do the flowers.
*Some of the withdrawal symptoms from alcohol
or drugs can be life threatening and should be moni-
tored by a professional.

  RADIANT LIVING  s  35

Kicking the Tobacco Habit craving lasts only two to three minutes.
It is not an easy task to quit smok- If you can distract yourself for that long
the battle is yours. Get a drink of water
ing. The 1988 Surgeon General’s report and take several slow deep breaths. Tell
revealed that nicotine is six to eight someone your reasons for quitting. Find
times more addictive than alcohol. Yet an activity not related to smoking that can
since 1964, 44 million Americans have be done automatically when necessary.
stopped smoking. Most have kicked the ❖  Exercise daily. Exercise naturally re-
habit on their own; however, the chances lieves anxiety and tension; it is a powerful
of success are up to five times higher for mood elevator. When faced with cravings,
those who attend a seminar such as the exercise is an excellent option. Plan some
Breathe Free Plan to Stop Smoking, one sort of moderate physical activity, such as
of the most successful smoking cessation a brisk walk, into every day. You will have
programs ever presented, with over 20 fewer and less intense cravings.
million graduates worldwide. ❖  Get more sleep. For the first five
days your body will tend to require more
An addiction to tobacco is both psycho- sleep. Arrange your schedule so that you
logical and physical. Some of the classic have the option of an extra two hours in
withdrawal symptoms are: nicotine crav- bed if you need it. This will go a long
ing, rapid mood swings, tremors, intestinal way toward preventing mood swings
problems, headaches, increased smoker’s and tendencies to irritability, frustration,
cough as the lungs clean themselves, sleep and anger.
disturbances, hunger, anxiety, irritability, ❖  Drink 8-12 glasses of water daily.
restlessness, difficulty concentrating, frus- Abundant quantities of water will wash
tration or anger, dizziness, and nausea. The the poisons from your system and prevent
average person experiences about five of dehydration, which seems to make a num-
these symptoms when he or she makes a ber of withdrawal symptoms worse. Other
complete break with cigarettes. The worst beverages are not as effective at keeping
of the withdrawal symptoms are usually you hydrated. Caffeinated drinks, are
over within the first 24-72 hours, and all diuretics and promote water loss.
physical symptoms should be completely
gone at the end of four weeks. Eating just fruit and drinking only
fruit juice or water for the first twenty-
Here are some things you can do to four hours may help flush your system
help take the misery out of quitting: of toxins.
❖  Choose to quit. The first and most ❖  Shower or bathe more frequently.
important step is to make a personal Water has a tremendous equalizing ef-
choice to stop smoking. Write down your fect on the nervous system and it keeps
reasons for quitting, keep them with you, your pores clean and open, which helps
and review them frequently. Set a date, eliminate toxins through the skin. Also,
the sooner the better, and kick the habit. ridiculous as it may sound, the shower
❖  Eliminate all cigarettes. Don’t plan to is actually a safe retreat when a nicotine
fail. Cigarettes close at hand intensify the craving hits. Showering and smoking just
cravings. Get rid of all temptation.
❖  Plan strategies to resist cravings. A

36  s  RADIANT LIVING

don’t go together for most people. harder to develop new habits. It is often
❖ Avoid substances that make it more behaviorally linked with smoking. An
difficult to quit. Caffeine increases the unusual reaction occurs when nicotine
intensity of some withdrawal symptoms and caffeine are given up at the same
such as nicotine cravings, anxiety, ir- time; their withdrawal symptoms tend to
ritability, and difficulty sleeping. It also cancel each other out, making it easier to
alters the brain chemistry, making it discontinue both. Those who stop smok-
ing but continue to drink coffee have a
s higher relapse rate than those who stop
TIPS FOR QUITTING using both at the same time.

❖  Choose to quit. Alcohol interferes with judgment. It
❖  Eliminate all cigarettes. will suppress the ability to stick with your
❖  Plan strategies to resist decision to quit.

cravings. Heavy meals, especially in the evening,
❖  Exercise daily. tend to bring on the urge to smoke.
❖  Get more sleep.
❖  Drink 8-12 glasses of water Spicy foods such as mustard, vinegar,
ketchup, pickles, pepper, and even cinna-
daily. mon, can increase smoking urges as well
❖  Shower or bathe more as other withdrawal symptoms.
❖ Avoid smoking associated situa-
frequently. tions. When, where, and with whom do
❖  Avoid substances that you usually smoke? If you usually smoke
sitting at the table after dinner, then get
make it more difficult to up immediately and do something not
quit. associated with smoking. What about
❖  Avoid smoking associated that easy chair? Do you always have
situations. a cigarette in your hand when you sit
❖  Help someone else. there? Sit somewhere else. Explain to
❖  Persevere. your friends what you are doing and ask
❖  Ask for help. for their support. If they try to undermine
your resolve or tempt you, they are not
s really your friends; avoid them until you
have firmly broken the habit.
❖ Help someone else. Programs that em-
ploy a buddy system are invaluable. The
act of helping someone else quit provides
a tremendous boost and is a motivation
for you to keep going.
❖ Persevere. If in a moment of weak-
ness you give in to your cravings, don’t
give up. Determine to persevere and
continue fighting until you win. Figure

  RADIANT LIVING  s 37

out what went wrong, devise a plan so it people know what they need to do but
won’t happen again, renew your commit- can’t seem to find either the desire or the
ment and obtain the victory. Do not allow will power to do it.
yourself to flounder in self-destructive
condemnation and stop trying. When we repeat an action over and
❖ Ask for help. Many people find that over the brain changes and makes a
their strongest resolutions and most sin- “pathway” so it is easier to do that action
cere promises are like ropes of sand. They again without thinking about it. The only
realize that they are slaves to tobacco, way to change the habit is to form a new
incapable of freeing themselves. There “pathway” that is stronger than the old
is hope for those in this position. Your one. Many people find that it takes ap-
loving Creator will give you strength proximately three weeks to form a new
if you ask Him. Spend some time with habit. Unfortunately, the old pathway
Him each day in self-surrender and give never goes away so the chance of falling
this battle to Him. Persevere and He will back into the old habit is always present.
set you free.
Addictions have several common
1. McGinnis JM, Foege WH. Actual causes of characteristics, one of which is the loss of
death in the United States. JAMA 1993 Nov 10; control. Any habit that is not fully under
270(18):2207-2212. your command is an addiction.

Habits & Addictions The primary methods for dealing with
a habit or an addiction are the same:
Whenever the issue of a change in ❂    Stop “cold turkey.” If you truly
lifestyle comes up, whether it is losing want to change, you must make a clean
weight, quitting a harmful habit, or try- break from your habit or addiction and
ing to get enough rest or exercise, many abstain for life. You can no more indulge
a bad habit in “moderation” than an alco-

“Your promises and resolutions are like ropes of sand. You
cannot control your thoughts, your impulses, your affections.
The knowledge of your broken promises and forfeited pledges
weakens your confidence in your own sincerity, but you
need not despair. By yielding up the will to Christ we receive
strength from above to hold us steadfast. A life of victory is
possible to everyone who will unite his will to the will of God.”
38  s RADIANT LIVING

holic can return to “moderate” drinking. big deal. It gave me pleasure and helped
❂    Address the root causes. If your me cope with the stress and pain in my
addiction is brought on by stress you life. But since my parents did not approve
must learn to deal constructively with of this habit I soon learned to lie and hide
this foundational problem before you can what I was doing from everyone around
expect to master your addiction. me. I withdrew from the society of others
❂    Make no provision to fail. Don’t as much as possible, and began spending
keep the cigarettes, liquor, chocolate, etc., every spare minute I could by myself,
around; everyone has weak moments. lost to the rest of the world, satisfying
❂    Be willing to face some discom- my craving. I didn’t develop any friends
fort. Some suffering may be involved or learn to interact with other people. My
in breaking a habit or an addiction. Be addiction became the sum total of my life.
willing to endure, always keeping your I loved it, lived for it, spent every penny
goal in mind. I made on it, and when I was engaged in
❂    Persevere. If failure occurs, the ten- other activities I wasn’t really there—I
dency is to become discouraged and quit. was trying to figure out how to slip away
Don’t give up. Learn from your mistake and indulge my habit.
and keep going.
I realized quite early that I was en-
While these techniques have their slaved; I had a very small inkling of
place, some of us have a willpower so the damage it was doing to me and the
weak that all the methods in the world conflicts it was causing in my life. I tried
will not be enough. We can no more to quit a number of times, but when the
change our behavior than we can increase stress and pain of life got to be too much
our height or change the color of our for me I’d be back at it again. It was my
skin through willpower alone. We love comfort, and my only resource for coping
our habit even while we hate the effects with life. I hated myself for being so weak
it has on us. but realized I was completely helpless.

What can you do when you realize that While in this state of mind a thought
you are truly helpless and enslaved— came to me, “You have never given God
when you have tried everything and a chance.” I figured I had nothing to lose,
have given up on yourself? That is just so I said, “God, I don’t even know if You
the place where God can work with you. exist, but I’m willing to give You a try.
Give Him a chance, put the whole mat- If You will take complete responsibility
ter in His capable hands, and relinquish for removing this habit, I will surrender
yourself to His control. myself to You and spend ten minutes
in the morning and ten minutes in the
Experience of an Addict evening with You trying to learn who
You are.” I kept my side of the bargain.
In spite of the fact that I was raised Every day I would give myself and my
in a good Christian home, by the time I problem to Him and leave it in His hands.
entered high school I was caught in a web I didn’t dwell on it or fight it. I spent my
of addiction from which I could not free energy getting to know Him. Several
myself. This activity didn’t seem like a months later I realized I had been free

  RADIANT LIVING  s  39

for weeks and the desire was gone. I had ics do not produce enough insulin and
been recreated a new person who was no must have regular shots, or they will
longer a slave. die. Type II diabetics have a less severe
underproduction of insulin, and/or an
Years have gone by; at times I have lost insulin resistant condition, in which the
my focus on Jesus and my connection cells do not respond to it. As a result,
with Him. Then my old nature returned glucose builds up in the blood while the
and I resumed my old ways. cells starve. Type II diabetes is usually the
result of a genetic predisposition coupled
But my God is so gracious! He takes with obesity, a diet high in fat, and too
me back, recreates me, and puts me back little exercise.
on the right path. My relationship with
Him is far more valuable than wealth or The good news is that diabetes can
honor, praise or possessions, and I don’t often be controlled by lifestyle modifica-
ever want to trade it for anything, lose it, tions. If a person is receiving medication,
or neglect it again. these changes must be made in consulta-
tion with a doctor, since medications will
BAB—An addict, free by the grace need to be lowered quickly—sometimes
of God. within a matter of hours.

Diabetes Here are some recommended changes:
1. Avoid dietary fats. They are the
Diabetes is a serious condition that main factor responsible for making cells
occurs when the body becomes unable unresponsive to insulin.2 Studies show
to use glucose (sugar), which builds up that a 65 percent fat diet will induce
to dangerous levels in the blood. High diabetes in less than two weeks.3
blood sugar levels damage the body 2. Lose weight. Obesity is one of the
in a number of ways. Life expectancy primary reasons cells become insulin
is shortened by 5 to 10 years or more. resistant. Losing weight makes the cells
The risk of heart disease, stroke, blind- more responsive, and this alone will cure
ness, foot and leg amputations, kidney many Type II diabetics.4
failure, peripheral neuropathy, and 3. Exercise regularly. Physical in-
breast and uterine cancer is increased. activity contributes to the development
It is estimated that sixteen million of insulin resistance. Regular exercise
Americans are diabetic, and one third enhances the cell’s ability to use insu-
are unaware of it.1 lin.5 Regular exercise is critical for the
diabetic and for those at high risk of
There are two types of diabetes. Ju- developing the disease because of excess
venile onset diabetes—called Type I or weight or genetic predisposition.
insulin dependent diabetes—is the more 4. Avoid things that aggravate the
severe form. Adult onset diabetes— problem. Refined sugar, caffeine, nico-
called Type II or noninsulin dependent tine, and alcohol unbalance insulin pro-
diabetes—is more common. Both have duction and blood sugar levels. High blood
problems with insulin, the substance pressure, acetaminophen, and excess
which acts as the “key” to open the protein facilitate kidney deterioration.6
“door” of each body cell to let glucose
enter and fuel the cell. Type I diabet-

40  s  RADIANT LIVING

5. Eat a proper mastery over diabetes.
diet. The American
Diabetic Association 1. American Diabetes Association http:// www.
now recommends a diabetes.org/ada/facts.asp.
diet low in fat, mod-
erate in protein, and 2. McDougall J A A Challenging Second Opinion.
containing complex New Jersey New Century Publishers Inc. 1985
carbohydrates such pp. 217-219.
as beans, vegetables
and grains. The fiber 3. Diehl H, Ludington A. Health Power Review and
found in such foods Herald Publishing assoc. 2000 p. 53.
is a critical ingredi-
ent in the control of 4. Bar, R. Fluctuations in the affinity and concentra-
blood sugar. Even tion of insulin receptors on circulating monocytes
fruit can be handled of obese patients: effects of starvation, refeeding,
in this kind of diet if and dieting. J Ciln Invest 58:1123 1976.
eaten unrefined and in moderation.
5. O’Meara NM, Polonsky KS. Insulin Secretion in
6. Space meals appropriately. Five to vivo. ln: Kahn CR ital Weir GC, et al, eds. Joslin’s
seven meals have often been prescribed Diabetes Mellitus– 13th Edition. Malvern, PA: Lea
for diabetics, but eating frequent meals and Febiger 1994 p. 86.
raises absolute blood sugar levels 10
to 15 percent. On a low-fat diet high in 6. Nedley p.178,179.
complex carbohydrate most people can 7. Thrash A, and Thrash C. Nutrition for Vegetarians
easily maintain adequate blood glucose
levels with three or even two meals a day. Seale, AL: New Lifestyle Books, 1982 p. 111.
Mealtimes should be regular, with at least
five hours between meals, and no snacks. Osteoporosis
The evening meal can be omitted or kept
very light. This will also help with weight Osteoporosis is a gradual and pain-
loss.7 Ask your doctor to adjust your insu- less condition in which bones become
lin injections as needed. more brittle because of mineral loss and
structural deterioration. It affects one in
7. Harness the benefits of sunlight. every three women over fifty years of age
Exposure to sunlight lowers blood sugar worldwide. Most are not aware of it until
by stimulating its storage in the muscles they suffer a fracture—most commonly
and liver. Diabetics are benefitted by of the hip, wrist or back bones. These
getting moderate amounts of sunshine, fractures can significantly affect the qual-
but lengthy sunbathing is not recom- ity of life, and may cause premature death
mended. from complications such as pneumonia.

Thousands of people have been success-
ful in bringing this disease under control.
Begin today to follow these simple sug-
gestions, and you too will lose weight, feel
better, have more energy, and achieve the

  RADIANT LIVING  s  41

Because calcium is the main mineral osteoporosis.6
lost in osteoporosis, it has been thought
that high calcium intake would reduce 1. NE, Alcautara EN, Linksisder H. Effect of level
bone loss. However, research has not of protein intake on urinary and fecal calcium and
borne this out. Instead it shows that calcium retention of young male adults J. Nutr.
high protein intake from meat and dairy 1970 Dec ; 100(12): 1425-1430.
sources robs calcium from the bones,
even when calcium supplements are be- 2. Feskanich D, Willeh WC, et al. Protein consump-
ing taken.1 Interestingly, higher consump- tion and bone fractures in women. Am J.Epidermial
tion of vegetable protein does not appear 1996 Mar 1; 143(5): 472-479.
to be related to osteoporosis or bone
fractures.2 See p. 9 A Diet of Excess for 3. Weaver CM. Calcium bioavailability and its rela-
more information on the calcium protein tion to osteoporosis. Proc. Soc. Exp Biol Med 1992
connection. Jun; 200(2):157-160.

Here are some lifestyle factors that 4. Aloia J. Exercise and Skeletal Health. J. Am Geriatr
help to significantly protect against Soc 29 : 104, 1981.
osteoporosis:
5. Ross PD. Osteoporosis, Frequency, Consequences
1. Nutrition. The optimum plan for this and Risk Factors. Arch Intern Med 1996 Jul
condition is a vegetarian diet low in protein 8;156(13) : 399-1411.
with a moderate calcium intake from plant
sources. It has been found that humans 6. Ibid.
can assimilate calcium as well or better
from plants than from dairy products.3 The Obesity
body also uses calcium to process excess
salt and phosphorus. Watch out for foods Obesity is one of America’s greatest
that introduce high amounts of phosphates health problems. It lays the foundation
into the diet without providing the neces- for heart disease, high blood pressure,
sary calcium to process them. Such foods cancer, and diabetes as well as numerous
include soda pop, meat, and dairy products. other problems like osteoarthritis, back
pain, fatigue and low self esteem. Every
2. Exercise. Studies show that lack of extra pound takes about one month from
exercise is a risk factor in osteoporosis. your life span. Sixty extra pounds can
The bones need to be pushed, pulled and cost you five years. Excess fat has such
stressed against gravity to retain their a direct correlation to health that every
minerals. Bone density can be increased pound lost or gained makes a difference.
by a daily exercise program.4
Losing weight has become a national
3. Sunlight. Inadequate levels of vita- obsession. We spend billions of dollars
min D have been associated with osteo- each year on quick-fix fads, diets, and
porosis.5 Sunlight stimulates the body to weight loss pills. The sad fact is that
convert cholesterol into vitamin D, which most are useless and some are actually
helps the body absorb calcium. Vitamin D quite dangerous. Programs that include a
supplements are not as effective. diuretic are essentially forcing the body
to shed some of its much needed water.
4. Abstention. Alcohol, caffeine, and A protein overdose will do practically the
nicotine consumption increase the risk of same thing. The body uses a lot of water
to wash the waste products from excess
protein out of the system. These diets can
cause impressive weight loss in a short
time. However losing weight by forcing
water from the system is dangerous and
ineffective, since the body replaces the
water as fast as it can.

42  s  RADIANT LIVING

The Hidden
Benefits of Charcoal

Charcoal is one of the best-kept secrets in the world of healing. Charcoal
has the amazing ability to attract other substances to its surface and hold
them there. This is called adsorption. Charcoal can adsorb thousands
of times its own weight in gases, heavy metals, poisons, and other chemicals,
effectively neutralizing them.

The form of charcoal used for medical purposes is called activated charcoal. It
is completely harmless and is safe for internal use. Other sources of charcoal such
as burnt toast, and briquettes are ineffective and may be dangerous. Briquettes,
for instance, contain petrochemicals to help them ignite. Activated charcoal,
which is available in many drug stores and health food stores, is an amazingly
effective remedy for a wide range of problems both internal and external.

Internally, charcoal combats poisoning, gastrointestinal complaints, diarrhea,
sore throat, and bad breath. The best time to take charcoal is between meals; it
is less effective when taken with food.

Externally, charcoal relieves infected wounds or ulcers, insect bites or stings,
ear and eye infections, and inflammation. Charcoal actually draws bacteria and
poisons through the skin and into the poultice or compress.1
The Charcoal Poultice
1. Mix a little water into some charcoal powder to make a paste.
2. Spread the charcoal paste approximately one-fourth inch deep on half of a

cloth or paper towel. Leave a border of one inch all around. Fold the other
half over the charcoal paste.
3. Place the poultice on the affected skin area and cover with a piece of plastic
or cloth that extends one inch over all edges.
4. Hold the poultice in place with a roller bandage, ace bandage, wool fabric,
or tape.
5. Leave on for a few hours or overnight if necessary.
Note: For very small areas, a small amount of charcoal on a dampened band
aid works well.

Caution:

IN THE EVENT OF POISONING call your poison control center; charcoal is
useful for most but not all poisons.

Don’t take charcoal within two hours of meals or medicines. It can adsorb such
things as vitamins, minerals, and many drugs. If you are taking medication
check with your doctor before beginning treatment with charcoal.

Note: Charcoal stains. Do not let charcoal get on clothing or furniture. It is best not to put charcoal
powder directly on the skin if it is cut or broken—it will leave a permanent mark.

1. American Medical News, p. 37, June 22, 1984.

  RADIANT LIVING  s  43

“Starvation” diets that provide less Calorie intake
than 500 calories per day become coun- A successful and healthy weight loss
terproductive if kept up for more than
two or three days. The body then figures program will provide adequate energy
out the food has stopped and conserves and nutrition, and also be something you
energy by lowering the metabolism—the can make a permanent part of your life.
rate at which you burn calories. It then ❂ Build menus around fresh fruits,
begins to consume the parts of the body vegetables, grains, legumes and other
that use the most energy—the muscles. plant foods. These foods provide variety,
When you come off the diet with less energy, and all the nutrients necessary.
muscle and a much lowered metabolism They are colorful, tasty, and low calorie
you will gain weight more readily than as well.
before. Remaining overweight would be ❂ Eliminate or greatly reduce refined
more healthful than the repeated weight- sugar and fats in the diet. Thanks to
loss/weight-gain cycles that gradually modern food processing it is now possible
deplete muscle and replace it with fat to eat an entire day’s worth of calories at
tissue, making further weight loss nearly one sitting. Since meat and dairy products
impossible. are especially high in fat and calories,
limiting their use can make weight loss
The only weight loss program that easier; meats and cheeses are 60-80
will have a permanent effect is one that percent fat. Learn to read food labels;
involves permanent lifestyle changes. look for hidden fat and sugar calories.
The weight puzzle solved Butter, sauces, dressings, and gravy are
all condiments that can double or triple
The basic problem in obesity is too the calories in an otherwise healthy meal.
many calories. Whenever more calories ❂ Eat a generous breakfast, a moder-
are consumed than the body can use, ate lunch, and skip supper completely.
it stores them as fat. Every 3,500 extra If you must eat in the evening, choose
calories equals another pound of stored whole fruit. Calories eaten in the morn-
fat. There are two strategies to combat the ing are burned as you go through the
problem: reduce the number of calories day. Calories eaten at night are stored
coming in and increase the number of as fat. Timing plays a tremendous part
calories you burn. in weight loss. This could be the key to
your success.
❂ Avoid snacks and beverages other
than water between meals. It is easy to
get your entire allotment of calories for
the day just from snacks. Try recording
your snack calories for a day or two
and see.
Calorie expenditure

To successfully lose weight more

44  s  RADIANT LIVING