John Du Cane

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Hi All!

Phew, it’s getting intense! Not sure about you, but we’re in shelter-in-place here and it’s wise to utterly minimize contact with others. Unless you absolutely have to. Like many of us, I’ve been doing a certain amount of stocking up of essentials. And one nice thing I’ve discovered is that if you follow the Ketoist lifestyle, there’s not a whole lot of bulk you need to buy.

Why? Because Keto favors high-density, healthy fats as the core of the diet. Which means that just a few small servings can easily meet most of your caloric needs for the day. Given that, in this Sunday Share I’m listing the fats I have personally been stocking up on to safeguard my health in the coming period.

Terrasoul Cacao Butter Wafers

I slip a few of these babies into my espresso along with some heavy-whipping cream, for a delicious and nutritionally-rewarding kick. This has been a recent dream-find for me and I strongly recommend it! BTW, you can also obtain this brand of Peruvian cocao in powder form at a great price.

Another plus to consider: The antioxidants in cacao may offer cellular defense against the effects of free radicals, possibly improving the look of skin and promoting cellular repair and rejuvenation.

Camel Fat

I use camel fat as part of the ingredients in my slow cook lamb preparations. Compared with camel milk which is unfortunately pretty pricey, this is inexpensive. The bad news is that it appears to be unavailable online right now but I encourage you check it out for future use.

MCT Oil

Okay, so everyone and their brother is on the MCT oil bandwagon these days — and I am happy to report that’s a good thing…J Add it to your morning coffee along with that delicious cocoa butter and listen as your brain and body break into a chorus of Hallelujahs (substitute your own preferred religious/spiritual exclamation of ecstasy, as you wish.) Expect and hopefully receive greater mental clarity and enhanced physical energy. I use it every day and a little goes a very long way. Not a coffee person? No worries, it has a very mild taste can you take it neat if you want.

Bison Tallow

I put Bison Tallow at the top of my list of awesome Epic Brand fats, for shock value really. I like to nonchalantly mention bizarre food consumption every now and then, to entertain my friends. I am including this also in my slow-cook meat dishes, because why not? And it packs 130 calories per spoonful.

Beef Tallow

Beef Tallow is already revered by chefs for the taste it brings to a bunch of dishes. I concur, although I’m no grandmaster chef. Note the impressive list of benefits listed by Ancestral Supplements for it:

• Based on the native wisdom of our early ancestors, tallow provides the same nourishing fat (kidney fat > suet) that our ancestors selectively hunted for robust strength, health and happiness.
• Tallow not only supplies fatty acids like CLA, oleic acid and palmitic acid but also contains vitamins A, D, K & E. This combination provides the matrix for absorption and assimilation of the fat soluble activators which supports and affects virtually every biological system… yes, it’s that fundamental!
• Tallow supports inflammatory health, regulates the immune system and provides deep nourishment for growth and development (healthy bones, teeth, gums and skin).
• Recommended as an integral part of a nose-to-tail keto or carnivore diet by Paul Saladino, MD (author of The Carnivore Code)

Goat Ghee

I find I can tolerate goat milk products better than cow or sheep. And I also like the high concentration of caprylic acid, which has these purported health benefits: “It’s a medium-chain fatty acid with potent antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties make caprylic acid a helpful treatment for many conditions. It’s used to treat yeast infections, skin conditions, digestive disorders, and high cholesterol. It’s also used to lower the risk of antibiotic resistance.”

Tastes great too.

Thoughts, comments, wishes, suggestions? Hit me up by email at johnrducane@gmail.com

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Hi All!

As with my previous issue, this Sunday Share is entirely devoted to my own choices for fortifying the immune system against a potential external threat like the Coronavirus. I have a great deal of respect for Traditional Chinese Medicine’s efficacy when it comes to boosting immunity. It’s an area where they really shine.

Consider the following inexpensive remedies as a way to stack the deck that much more in your favor when it comes to successfully fending off an attack. While I possess all of these listed below, I can’t yet vouch personally for their impact on my health, so I’m just presenting you with their basic information without commentary.

Hung Lian Shang

An herbal supplement that supports the health of the upper area of your body, including the head, ears, tongue, throat, mouth, and gums. This herbal supplement is used a great deal in China to support the upper respiratory system and was promoted strongly by the Chinese Government when the novel Coronavirus hit.

Bi Yan Pian

Recommended for those with nasal congestion, cold, allergies, and runny nose.

The Great Windkeeper

Tonifies the Qi, preserves the yin, nourishes body fluids, moistens dryness and astringes the leakage of fluids.

Jiao Gu Lian

A Chinese herbal remedy also used in modern times building the immune system and helping in recovery from surgery, chemotherapy and radiation.

Abundant Qi

Recommended for fatigue and the immune system.

Respiryn Extract

Helps promote and maintain a healthy respiratory system

 

Thoughts, comments, wishes, suggestions? Hit me up by email at johnrducane@gmail.com

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Hi All!

Here is the current issue of my weekly “Sunday Share,” a list of what I have been engaging with, excited by or otherwise found intriguing.

For all sorts of unfortunate reasons, it is clear that the US and many other countries have woefully missed the boat when it came to a proactive approach to contain the Coronavirus. Almost all reputable experts are now expecting a dramatic increase in community-based infections – perhaps of historic proportions.

While I’ve seen plenty of good advice about the importance of such strategies as hand-washing and social distancing, I haven’t seen much information devoted to how to rapidly enhance your immune system when faced with an imminent challenge of this nature.

So, my new issue of the Sunday Share is entirely devoted to my own top choices for fortifying the immune system against a potential threat of this magnitude. I have curated my recommendations from previous issues, so consider this a quick cheat-sheet for some powerful remedies that might just save your life or the life of a loved one. And if not save your life, almost certainly enhance it…

Liposomal Vitamin C

At a PCC in Dallas, Texas I met the former US Olympics Team chiropractor and all-around strength athlete Dr. Steven Horwitz. Steven recounted how he had insisted on receiving massive infusions of Vitamin C before and after undergoing a particularly radical surgery. He swore by the healing results. Intrigued, I followed up with local Vitamin C infusions. But they were very pricey indeed.

Then, after reading Dr Levy’s Curing The Incurable, I discovered his recommendation that liposomal Vitamin C, is five to ten times more powerful/absorbable than normal delivery systems and has the same clinical efficacy as the infusions — without the high cost. I have been taking liposomal vitamin C daily ever since and am convinced it has helped me remain relatively robust and illness-free.

If I was only allowed to take one supplement to strengthen and protect my immune system, it would be liposomal vitamin C, no question…

Cryotherapy

After publishing Wim Hof’s The Way of the Iceman—and after a longtime interest in cold shock therapy as a method for strengthening the immune system  —  I began nitrogen-based cryotherapy. I loved the exhilaration of it and the enhanced recovery. More recently, I discovered a local facility that offered a more powerful full-immersion cryotherapy based on electrically cooled air.

Unlike the nitrogen-based system, the full-immersion version fully stimulates the upper chest and face for an optimal impact on the CNS and the vagus nerve. The resulting reduction of chronic inflammation in the body lowers the body’s battle-burden, freeing up its energy to better fend off pathogenic attacks. Hopefully, you can find a full-immersion cryotherapy facility near you. The one I am using is called US Cryotherapy. Here’s a link to explore further: https://www.uscryotherapy.com

Grassfed Beef Organs, from Ancestral supplements

Recently, the brilliant book Go Wild reminded me of what we are missing out on by not including a variety of organ meats in our diet, so I’ve been helping my health along by at least popping some capsules on a regular basis. Need some convincing? Here’s some info for you to consider from Ancestral’s product page:

• GRASS FED LIVER (600MG) provides nature’s most nutrient dense superfood. Liver is the only meaningful source of natural vitamin A (rich in heme iron and B12). Supports optimal liver health and energy demands.
• GRASS FED HEART (600MG) is the richest source of naturally occurring coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). Supports optimal heart health, regulates blood pressure and is a nutritional powerhouse for mitochondria.
• GRASS FED KIDNEY (600MG) is a potent bio-available source of naturally occurring selenium and B12. Supports strong kidney health, aids in detoxification pathways and the antioxidant defense system, bolsters immunity.
• GRASS FED PANCREAS (600MG) provides nature’s all natural source of enzymes. Supports a strong functioning pancreas, supports blood sugar signaling and contributes an abundance of key enzymes for optimal digestion, health and wellness. We are not what we eat… we are what we digest.
• GRASS FED SPLEEN (600MG) is nature’s most concentrated source of heme iron. Supports a strong immune response and aids in the metabolic health of our blood cells… Well known for its ability to build blood.

Black Cumin Oil 

The more I read or listen to wise health advice, the clearer it becomes that reducing chronic inflammation in the body is a non-negotiable, if you are ever going to be truly vital and as resilient as you can be. These days, there a ton of suggested supplements clamoring for us to join their anti-inflammation bandwagon. What to jump on, who to trust, what to take? The problem is partly that it’s very hard to assess their efficacy — particularly when you’re already downing a handful of other supplements.

For me it comes down at least initially to a combination of intuition and trust. Black Cumin Seed Oil has become a hot new product recently but in this case it has a potent history dating back many centuries. So I am taking this oil in capsules at night and sometimes adding it to my coffee in the morning.

Here is a benefit breakdown from a brand I like:

• POWERFUL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ACTION: With two potent phytochemical compounds, Nigellone and Thymoquinone, this supplement offers essential anti-inflammatory benefits and can be used to treat various chronic diseases that cause or feed from inflammation in the body.
• FORTIFY YOUR PHYSICAL & MENTAL HEALTH: This black seed oil supplement comes in a 1oz or 4oz glass bottle and just 1-2 teaspoons daily will help you accelerate weight loss, strengthen your hair and will even help you get a goodnight’s sleep on those restless nights. Plus, its cardiovascular, digestive, respiratory and immune system benefits are known even from ancient Arabic cultures.

Sibergin

Since my late twenties I’ve been an avid consumer of ginseng for its adaptogenic and hence immune-enhancing properties. Of all the varieties out there, the one I found myself most returning to was Siberian Ginseng and in particular the one from Health Aid America called Sibergin.

To wet your interest, here’s some information from WebMD on the reputed benefits of Siberian Ginseng:

In addition to being used as an adaptogen, Siberian ginseng is used for conditions of the heart and blood vessels such as high and low blood pressure,  hardening of the arteries and rheumatic heart disease

It is used for kidney disease, Alzheimer’s disease, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, flu, colds, chronic bronchitis and tuberculosis.  It is also used for treating the side effects of chemotherapy.

It is also used to boost the immune system and increase appetite.

Stamets 7 Mushroom Mycelium Powder

The immune-enhancing capabilities of certain mushrooms has a long history, particularly with the Chinese. In the last few years it seems that the mushroom-remedy movement has exploded in the US. And I am not about to dispute the evidence.  One of the most reputable is the Stamets 7 product which I have been taking for a few months now. It’s a combo of Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, Chaga, Reishi, Royal Sun Blazei, Maitake, and Mesima. So far so good — it is feeling like another worthwhile immune protector to keep in my arsenal.

There are a lot of strong reviews on Amazon for the product. Here’s a fairly typical one that caught my eye:

“These were recommended to me by my homeopathic/naturopathic doctor about 90 days ago. I am seeing him due to major stomach issues/GERD/gastroparesis that plagued me for months and years. Since he was able to completely cure me of the aforementioned issues when other “western/regular” style doctors couldn’t even diagnose the problem I thought I would give these a go since I always seem to get sick during cold/flu season due to my job having me traveling a lot. I will say this, not only have I stayed 100% healthy this year (oh, and did I mention I have 2 children under the age of 4 who are sick all the time), but these also help with my energy levels (I don’t get the 2 o’clock crash I used to) and my overall feeling of health. These are an absolute must for anyone wanting to get healthier, but more importantly stay healthy despite being around sick people. Yes, they are a bit pricey ($360/yr), but if I don’t have to pay for my medical co-pays and antibiotics or other meds the trade off is the exact same. Pay now or pay later…up to you!”

Golden Seal

As a wave of fresh paranoia about a new “killer” virus sweeps through the internet, I am reminded about an old standby of mine that I have used on and off for around forty years. That would be the ancient Native American remedy, Golden Seal. Originally I would glug it in tincture form and I am sure would overdo it, being the compulsive type I am. In fact, I remember getting fairly high on it in a spacey, yinnified kind of way…

While I am not sure how much Golden Seal would truly help against the coronavirus, I have turned to it frequently if I feel a cold coming on and it helps reduce symptoms very quickly.

Here’s a couple of customer reviews from Amazon that I would agree with, based on my overall experience with it over the years:

“I take it 5 days a week and 2 days off. Goldenseal should not be taken every day for very long. It’s a great antibiotic type herb. I take it for inflammation and respiratory, but it’s been helpful for many health issues: Goldenseal is also used for the common cold and other upper respiratory tract infections, as well as stuffy nose and hay fever. Some people use goldenseal for digestive disorders including stomach pain and swelling (gastritis), peptic ulcers, colitis, diarrhea, constipation, hemorrhoids, and intestinal gas.”

“This actually does clear up mild infections for me, such as UTI or an ear infection. Pretty amazing what our forebears knew.”

So, if it looks like the coronavirus is going to go nuclear on us, perhaps a bottle or two of Gold Seal may help stack the immune deck in your favor…

Thoughts, comments, wishes, suggestions? Hit me up by email at johnrducane@gmail.com

It’s free. No spam. Unsubscribe whenever you want.

Hi All!

Here is the current issue of my weekly “Sunday Share,” a list of what I have been engaging with, excited by or otherwise found intriguing.

What I’m reading —
Atomic Habits: An Easy and proven Way to Build Good Habits and Break Bad Ones by James Clear

This is a book I wish I had been forced to read when I was 12 years old then encouraged to re-read every year after. And because the book only came out a little over a year ago, I am in regret-mode for all the waste in my life engendered by NOT following the extraordinarily practical and most certainly proven advice that fills every page.

I hadn’t realized just how disorganized I was until I absorbed the wisdom here. I have already started making many of the shifts Clear recommends. A next step will be doing a review of what really matters to me so I can re-organize my life to be so much more fulfilled in the years to come.

No question, Atomic Habits is a life-changer. I am sure I will read it at least another couple of times through. All I can say, just get it! You’ll be thanking me…J

What I’m putting into my body —
Terrasoul Cacao Butter Wafers

After reading a sales letter extolling the exotic health benefits of Peruvian Criollo cacao beans — but at an absurdly inflated price — I went on Amazon and found Terrasoul Cacao Butter Wafers. Oh my, do I feel like I lucked out! Their marketing promo describes this unheated/unprocessed butter as coming from the “ richest and most decadent part of the cacao bean.” Most decadent! Who knew that buried within the Criollo bean was this decadent essence just begging to slip into my mouth? And who knew that the marketing hype lived up to its claim? But, yup, after just the first few sips of my Criollo-laced espresso (aided and abetted by some heavy whipping cream) I was making some serious internal oohs and ahs…

As an unrepentant ketoist I appreciate the 130 calories I get from one tablespoon of these wafers. Add the divine taste, and I’m a happy, satisfied soul right now.

Newsletter I’m glad to open every week —
3-2-1 Thursday

As you read above, I was blown away by James Clear’s Atomic Habits. His newsletter, 3-2-1 Thursday is also a must-have, must-open in my world. His promise here is one that he delivers on:

“The goal of each 3-2-1 email is to share the most wisdom per word of any newsletter on the web. While my long-form articles allow me to explore one idea in-depth, these emails will cover a wide range of useful ideas each week.”

Have you checked out my new book The Illustrated Wild Boy yet? Here’s a nice review about it from a reputable source:

“An absorbing memoir perfectly complemented by exquisite art.” — Kirkus Reviews

Thoughts, comments, wishes, suggestions? Hit me up by email at johnrducane@gmail.com

It’s free. No spam. Unsubscribe whenever you want.

Hi All!

Here is the current issue of my weekly “Sunday Share,” a list of what I have been engaging with, excited by or otherwise found intriguing.

What I’m reading —

The 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos by Jordan Peterson

Any author who describes Dostoyevsky as the greatest novelist of all time gets an immediate thumbs up from me. As a teenager, I would exhaust flashlight batteries under the covers until 3am, illicitly reading Crime and Punishment and The Brothers Karamazov and The Idiot when I was supposed to be fast asleep. In fact I chose to go to Churchill College, Cambridge to study directly with George Steiner the author of Tolstoy or Dostoyevsky. Sort of like “The Rolling Stones or the Beatles?” You guessed it, I’m a Stones guy. Can’t stand the Beatles… way too saccharine… Stones equals blues, Beatles equals British music hall which is most definitely not to my taste.

Then the next thumbs up from me for Jordan Peterson was his ability to get me to ascribe value to the Bible, the Old Testament in particular. While I was sent to Anglican schools in England, the language and the whole vibe of Christianity just didn’t ever resonate for me. But give me Buddhism or Taoism and I’m your friend for life. Peterson helped open my eyes to the hundreds of thousands of years of empirical wisdom and insight that the Old Testament summates—if still not in the kind of language I can easily tolerate. I feel more open-minded which is always a good thing.

As I continued to read The 12 Rules, I was struck over and over by the sheer practicality of the advice. Peterson helps me want to be a better person, plain and simple. And he lays out an inspiring package of mindsets/blueprints to make it happen.

As big a contribution for me—and this is the area where he has got into hot water—is his nuanced breakdown of and warnings about the perils of totalitarianism, whether from the left or the right. It is always a salutary reminder of just how close humanity always is to slipping into chaos and mayhem. And we appear to be heading into another era where Hitlerian dishonesty is laying the groundwork for mass-havoc to be unleashed on the world yet again, if we don’t act quickly to prevent the slide.

What I’m listening to —

Tulku

I have been in the mood to be transported into rapture recently, so I’ve returned to a wonderful couple of favorites from Tulku, Season of Souls and Trancendence. Both of these put me into that relaxed, inspired place where haunting melodies and sensual rhythms evoke the deeper reaches of the soul and hint at ecstatic mysteries beckoning to be revealed. I need that in my life right now!

Have a listen and let me know what you think.

Have you checked out my new book The Illustrated Wild Boy yet? Here’s a nice review about it from a reputable source:

“An absorbing memoir perfectly complemented by exquisite art.” — Kirkus Reviews

Thoughts, comments, wishes, suggestions? Hit me up by email at johnrducane@gmail.com