Newbie!

[Guest guest]

Good Morning!

 

I haven't started sprouting yet, I need to get all my supplies.  I'm looking at

containers, I saw the square ones on-line and they look great, but everyone

talks about using the Mason jars. 

What type of containers do you prefer? Which type of container is the most

efficient? 

 

Your conversations on here are absolutely educational!  It's great!  Keep it up!

 

From: melodylubart1 <eliz7212@...>

Subject: Re: Newbie!

Date: Wednesday, September 16, 2009, 3:51 PM

 

Hi Jennie:

I was going to make you a video of how I made my jar strainers, but I just read

that you can't view youtube so I'll just explain what I did.

I used to use cheesecloths and other such straining things to rinse and drain my

sprouts that were sprouting in my Mason Jars.

but the water use to pool so I thought to myself " why should I buy a jar with a

built in strainer (or better yet, they see the strainers by themselves), but the

cost would be about $3.95 per lid (with strainer). So I have 20 jars and I'm not

about to spend all that money.

So what did Melody do? Melody went to the local hardware store (You should have

SOMETHING SIMILAR where you live, right?)

I bought a yard of aluminum mesh (or maybe it's stainless, I'm not sure). It

looks like a big screen rolled up.

I simply took a red magic marker, outlined one of my lids (Placing all of this

on newspapers, so the red magic marker would not go on my kitchen table).

So I kept making red circles on this screen thing, until I had about ten of

them, (various sizes, because I have small mason jars and the big wide mouth

Mason Jars).

I then took my scissors and cut out the circles and then I had 10 beautiful home

made strainer things to fit right inside my lids.

You have no idea how simple this is to do and when it fits, and when you are

going to rinse and drain your mason jars, well, you just pour the water in,

swish the sprouts, hold upside down over the sink until the water runs out, tap

tap tap, to get any remaining water out of the jar, and then take your jar and

tilt it on the drainboard (where the dishes are put to dry).

The jars should be put on an angle so they drain completely.

I've been doing this for 18 months now and I've got it down to a science.

But the very important point about cutting the circles is to remember that you

are cutting metal stuff. Make sure you cut over something that will catch them,

and never do this near any sprouts or food because these tiny metal strainers

that you are cutting out, well, as you are cutting, you are leaving shavings all

over the place (including the scissors themselves).

Always make sure there are no shavings left in your work area and no shavings

left on the scissors. I immediately take a clean napkin, wipe down my scissors,

and wash them and dry them.

I have had absolutely no problem since I have been doing this.

I replace the circle strainers every 5 months or so (if I see them getting

rusty). The same goes for my lids.

When you wash out your lids, get a washcloth and run the cloth inside the rim.

You will see all the rush wipe off.

This might seem like a lot of work, but when you do it and you get it down to a

science, and then you grow your own food, well IT'S WORTH IT.

Take care

Melody

>

> Hi everyone,

>

> I just wanted to introduce myself. I'm a newbie at sprouting!

>

> I've been vegan for a few years then started eating more raw food and

> eventually went all raw. But my raw diet is also high fruit, which

> makes me concerned about getting enough minerals and amino acids. For

> greens I eat lettuce, spinach (but I heard it can block iron

> absorption), celery, cucumbers and tomatoes (although cucumbers and

> tomatoes are more fruits.) I also eat some nuts, avocados and seeds.

>

> I'm really excited to learn about sprouting for the obvious reason of

> nutrition, but also it will add texture and variety to my salads.

> But I really don't know where to begin. What tools do I need? I heard

> having a hemp bag may be helpful?

>

> Or should I purchase a sprouting machine?

>

> I know there are many videos on youtube, but I live here in China and

> youtube is blocked.

>

> Thanks so much for your suggestions,

> Jennie

>

[Guest guest]

Hey, ita, you will find that everybody does it differently. Most of

us started with mason jars. Some are happy with them and don't do

anythiny else. I lot of us have machines. I don't use mine much anymore

because I was getting overwhelmed with sprouts. Right now I am using four

EasySprouts and doing lentils in a strainer. I used to lecture on

'Sprouts and Sprouting' and have trays and bags, etc. Now I don't go out

much and all the stuff is packed away. The EasySprout is taking care of

my needs.      ew

Re: Newbie!

Date: Wednesday, September 16, 2009, 3:51 PM

 

Hi Jennie:

I was going to make you a video of how I made my jar strainers, but I

just read that you can't view youtube so I'll just explain what I

did.

I used to use cheesecloths and other such straining things to rinse

and drain my sprouts that were sprouting in my Mason Jars.

but the water use to pool so I thought to myself " why should I buy a

jar with a built in strainer (or better yet, they see the strainers

by themselves), but the cost would be about $3.95 per lid (with

strainer). So I have 20 jars and I'm not about to spend all that

money.

So what did Melody do? Melody went to the local hardware store (You

should have SOMETHING SIMILAR where you live, right?)

I bought a yard of aluminum mesh (or maybe it's stainless, I'm not

sure). It looks like a big screen rolled up.

I simply took a red magic marker, outlined one of my lids (Placing

all of this on newspapers, so the red magic marker would not go on my

kitchen table).

So I kept making red circles on this screen thing, until I had about

ten of them, (various sizes, because I have small mason jars and the

big wide mouth Mason Jars).

I then took my scissors and cut out the circles and then I had 10

beautiful home made strainer things to fit right inside my lids.

You have no idea how simple this is to do and when it fits, and when

you are going to rinse and drain your mason jars, well, you just pour

the water in, swish the sprouts, hold upside down over the sink until

the water runs out, tap tap tap, to get any remaining water out of

the jar, and then take your jar and tilt it on the drainboard (where

the dishes are put to dry).

The jars should be put on an angle so they drain completely.

I've been doing this for 18 months now and I've got it down to a

science.

But the very important point about cutting the circles is to remember

that you are cutting metal stuff. Make sure you cut over something

that will catch them, and never do this near any sprouts or food

because these tiny metal strainers that you are cutting out, well, as

you are cutting, you are leaving shavings all over the place

(including the scissors themselves).

Always make sure there are no shavings left in your work area and no

shavings left on the scissors. I immediately take a clean napkin,

wipe down my scissors, and wash them and dry them.

I have had absolutely no problem since I have been doing this.

I replace the circle strainers every 5 months or so (if I see them

getting rusty). The same goes for my lids.

When you wash out your lids, get a washcloth and run the cloth inside

the rim. You will see all the rush wipe off.

This might seem like a lot of work, but when you do it and you get it

down to a science, and then you grow your own food, well IT'S WORTH

IT.

Take care

Melody

>

> Hi everyone,

>

> I just wanted to introduce myself. I'm a newbie at sprouting!

>

> I've been vegan for a few years then started eating more raw food

and

> eventually went all raw. But my raw diet is also high fruit, which

> makes me concerned about getting enough minerals and amino acids.

For

> greens I eat lettuce, spinach (but I heard it can block iron

> absorption), celery, cucumbers and tomatoes (although cucumbers and

> tomatoes are more fruits.) I also eat some nuts, avocados and

seeds.

>

> I'm really excited to learn about sprouting for the obvious reason

of

> nutrition, but also it will add texture and variety to my salads.

> But I really don't know where to begin. What tools do I need? I

heard

> having a hemp bag may be helpful?

>

> Or should I purchase a sprouting machine?

>

> I know there are many videos on youtube, but I live here in China

and

> youtube is blocked.

>

> Thanks so much for your suggestions,

> Jennie

>

[Guest guest]

I prefer jars. I bought a FreshLife machine, but rarely use it, as I like

the jars better. I've also tried the clay dish, and wasn't fond of that

either. I do pull out the FreshLife when I want sunflower greens or pea

shoots, but that's it (they don't work well in jars). Everything else, I

use my mason jars. I have screens for them, and made plastic lid rings,

because the metal ones rust quickly. But, now, Sproutpeople.com carries

plastic lid rings! Niiiice.

:~)

Thia

On Wed, Sep 16, 2009 at 12:54 PM, ita Riechers <

juanita.riechers@...> wrote:

>

>

> Good Morning!

>

> I haven't started sprouting yet, I need to get all my supplies. I'm

> looking at containers, I saw the square ones on-line and they look great,

> but everyone talks about using the Mason jars.

>

> What type of containers do you prefer? Which type of container is the most

> efficient?

>

> Your conversations on here are absolutely educational! It's great! Keep

> it up!

>

>

[Guest guest]

Thia:

You said:

" Everything else, I use my mason jars. I have screens for them, and made plastic

lid rings, "

???????????????????????????????????????????????

YOU MADE PLASTIC LID RINGS? I could replace my metal rings and use my round

circle things inside to strain.

Now tell me PLEASE!! How does one make a plastic lid ring?

I cannot wait to hear this.

Melody

[Guest guest]

**VERY CAREFULLY** using an exacto-knife, cut out the center from a lid that

fits your jar.

:~)

Thia

On Wed, Sep 16, 2009 at 9:39 PM, Melody <eliz7212@...> wrote:

>

>

> YOU MADE PLASTIC LID RINGS? I could replace my metal rings and use my round

> circle things inside to strain.

>

> Now tell me PLEASE!! How does one make a plastic lid ring?

>

> I cannot wait to hear this.

>

> Melody

>

[Guest guest]

PS. make sure you leave enough of a lip, to hold the screen in place. Use

your metal rings as a template. Also, make sure you have lots of newspaper,

or a magazine (that you do not mind cutting up!) under your work. You do

not want to cut your table!!

:~)

Thia

On Thu, Sep 17, 2009 at 1:59 AM, Thia (aka: pixx) <pixxley@...> wrote:

> **VERY CAREFULLY** using an exacto-knife, cut out the center from a lid

> that fits your jar.

>

> :~)

> Thia

>

>

>

> On Wed, Sep 16, 2009 at 9:39 PM, Melody <eliz7212@...> wrote:

>

>>

>>

>> YOU MADE PLASTIC LID RINGS? I could replace my metal rings and use my

>> round circle things inside to strain.

>>

>> Now tell me PLEASE!! How does one make a plastic lid ring?

>>

>> I cannot wait to hear this.

>>

>> Melody

>>

>

--

º¤ø,¸,ø¤ºº¤ø,¸,ø¤ºº¤ø,¸,ø¤ºº¤ø,¸,ø¤º

Quick & Easy " Raw " Recipes

http://easyraw.blogspot.com/

º¤ø,¸,ø¤ºº¤ø,¸,ø¤ºº¤ø,¸,ø¤ºº¤ø,¸,ø¤º

[Guest guest]

Hi Melody, Sherry, and everyone,

Thanks a bunch for the detailed instructions.

Few questions -

1. Would window screen mesh work?

2. If I use glass jars, do they have to be quite big? (I only have small

jars at home, does this mean I have to buy a bunch of glass jars?)

Is a 400ml jar large enough?

3. When soaking the seeds/nuts, do I leave them in the fridge overnight, or

room temperature? (with lid closed or open?)

4. How does chickpea sprouts taste? Like the canned version? I love

chickpeas!

So sprouting machines are not useful? Is it because they produce too much in

quantity?

Oh and since I live here in China, green bean sprouts and soy bean sprouts

are very popular. But I'm always afraid to buy them, because one, soybeans

might be GMO. Two, green bean sprouts, I heard they use bleached water.

Thanks again!

Jennie (*running to the kitchen to see what she has!*)

On Wed, Sep 16, 2009 at 11:51 PM, melodylubart1 <eliz7212@...>wrote:

>

>

>

>

> Hi Jennie:

>

> I was going to make you a video of how I made my jar strainers, but I just

> read that you can't view youtube so I'll just explain what I did.

>

> I used to use cheesecloths and other such straining things to rinse and

> drain my sprouts that were sprouting in my Mason Jars.

>

> but the water use to pool so I thought to myself " why should I buy a jar

> with a built in strainer (or better yet, they see the strainers by

> themselves), but the cost would be about $3.95 per lid (with strainer). So I

> have 20 jars and I'm not about to spend all that money.

>

> So what did Melody do? Melody went to the local hardware store (You should

> have SOMETHING SIMILAR where you live, right?)

>

> I bought a yard of aluminum mesh (or maybe it's stainless, I'm not sure).

> It looks like a big screen rolled up.

>

> I simply took a red magic marker, outlined one of my lids (Placing all of

> this on newspapers, so the red magic marker would not go on my kitchen

> table).

>

> So I kept making red circles on this screen thing, until I had about ten of

> them, (various sizes, because I have small mason jars and the big wide mouth

> Mason Jars).

>

> I then took my scissors and cut out the circles and then I had 10 beautiful

> home made strainer things to fit right inside my lids.

>

> You have no idea how simple this is to do and when it fits, and when you

> are going to rinse and drain your mason jars, well, you just pour the water

> in, swish the sprouts, hold upside down over the sink until the water runs

> out, tap tap tap, to get any remaining water out of the jar, and then take

> your jar and tilt it on the drainboard (where the dishes are put to dry).

>

> The jars should be put on an angle so they drain completely.

>

> I've been doing this for 18 months now and I've got it down to a science.

>

> But the very important point about cutting the circles is to remember that

> you are cutting metal stuff. Make sure you cut over something that will

> catch them, and never do this near any sprouts or food because these tiny

> metal strainers that you are cutting out, well, as you are cutting, you are

> leaving shavings all over the place (including the scissors themselves).

>

> Always make sure there are no shavings left in your work area and no

> shavings left on the scissors. I immediately take a clean napkin, wipe down

> my scissors, and wash them and dry them.

>

> I have had absolutely no problem since I have been doing this.

>

> I replace the circle strainers every 5 months or so (if I see them getting

> rusty). The same goes for my lids.

>

> When you wash out your lids, get a washcloth and run the cloth inside the

> rim. You will see all the rush wipe off.

>

> This might seem like a lot of work, but when you do it and you get it down

> to a science, and then you grow your own food, well IT'S WORTH IT.

>

> Take care

>

> Melody

>

>

>

> >

> > Hi everyone,

> >

> > I just wanted to introduce myself. I'm a newbie at sprouting!

> >

> > I've been vegan for a few years then started eating more raw food and

> > eventually went all raw. But my raw diet is also high fruit, which

> > makes me concerned about getting enough minerals and amino acids. For

> > greens I eat lettuce, spinach (but I heard it can block iron

> > absorption), celery, cucumbers and tomatoes (although cucumbers and

> > tomatoes are more fruits.) I also eat some nuts, avocados and seeds.

> >

> > I'm really excited to learn about sprouting for the obvious reason of

> > nutrition, but also it will add texture and variety to my salads.

> > But I really don't know where to begin. What tools do I need? I heard

> > having a hemp bag may be helpful?

> >

> > Or should I purchase a sprouting machine?

> >

> > I know there are many videos on youtube, but I live here in China and

> > youtube is blocked.

> >

> > Thanks so much for your suggestions,

> > Jennie

> >

>

>

>

--

One Purpose . One Vision . One Heartbeat

[Guest guest]

Hi Jennie,

I personally would only use stainless steel screen (if they make it), I don't

trust aluminum.  I would use at least 1 quart jars....smaller wouldn't produce

much or leave much room for sprouts to grow.

You don't have to refrigerate soaking seeds, or sprouting seeds for that

matter.....being too cold would probably inhibit or stop the sprouting process. 

I don't even use a lid when soaking my seeds, but it wouldn't hurt.  Chickpeas

taste very similar to canned ones when sprouted (to me anyway).  I have made raw

hummus from sprouted chickpeas and it was pretty good.

Jennie, for detailed sprouting info try Sproutpeople.com......they have a great

site with info on almost any seeds and how to sprout or grow them.

Sherry

________________________________

From: Jennie Gao <jenniegao@...>

Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2009 10:54:21 AM

Subject: Re: Re: Newbie!

 

Hi Melody, Sherry, and everyone,

Thanks a bunch for the detailed instructions.

Few questions -

1. Would window screen mesh work?

2. If I use glass jars, do they have to be quite big? (I only have small

jars at home, does this mean I have to buy a bunch of glass jars?)

Is a 400ml jar large enough?

3. When soaking the seeds/nuts, do I leave them in the fridge overnight, or

room temperature? (with lid closed or open?)

4. How does chickpea sprouts taste? Like the canned version? I love

chickpeas!

So sprouting machines are not useful? Is it because they produce too much in

quantity?

Oh and since I live here in China, green bean sprouts and soy bean sprouts

are very popular. But I'm always afraid to buy them, because one, soybeans

might be GMO. Two, green bean sprouts, I heard they use bleached water.

Thanks again!

Jennie (*running to the kitchen to see what she has!*)

On Wed, Sep 16, 2009 at 11:51 PM, melodylubart1 <eliz7212verizon (DOT) net>wrote:

>

>

>

>

> Hi Jennie:

>

> I was going to make you a video of how I made my jar strainers, but I just

> read that you can't view youtube so I'll just explain what I did.

>

> I used to use cheesecloths and other such straining things to rinse and

> drain my sprouts that were sprouting in my Mason Jars.

>

> but the water use to pool so I thought to myself " why should I buy a jar

> with a built in strainer (or better yet, they see the strainers by

> themselves), but the cost would be about $3.95 per lid (with strainer). So I

> have 20 jars and I'm not about to spend all that money.

>

> So what did Melody do? Melody went to the local hardware store (You should

> have SOMETHING SIMILAR where you live, right?)

>

> I bought a yard of aluminum mesh (or maybe it's stainless, I'm not sure).

> It looks like a big screen rolled up.

>

> I simply took a red magic marker, outlined one of my lids (Placing all of

> this on newspapers, so the red magic marker would not go on my kitchen

> table).

>

> So I kept making red circles on this screen thing, until I had about ten of

> them, (various sizes, because I have small mason jars and the big wide mouth

> Mason Jars).

>

> I then took my scissors and cut out the circles and then I had 10 beautiful

> home made strainer things to fit right inside my lids.

>

> You have no idea how simple this is to do and when it fits, and when you

> are going to rinse and drain your mason jars, well, you just pour the water

> in, swish the sprouts, hold upside down over the sink until the water runs

> out, tap tap tap, to get any remaining water out of the jar, and then take

> your jar and tilt it on the drainboard (where the dishes are put to dry).

>

> The jars should be put on an angle so they drain completely.

>

> I've been doing this for 18 months now and I've got it down to a science.

>

> But the very important point about cutting the circles is to remember that

> you are cutting metal stuff. Make sure you cut over something that will

> catch them, and never do this near any sprouts or food because these tiny

> metal strainers that you are cutting out, well, as you are cutting, you are

> leaving shavings all over the place (including the scissors themselves).

>

> Always make sure there are no shavings left in your work area and no

> shavings left on the scissors. I immediately take a clean napkin, wipe down

> my scissors, and wash them and dry them.

>

> I have had absolutely no problem since I have been doing this.

>

> I replace the circle strainers every 5 months or so (if I see them getting

> rusty). The same goes for my lids.

>

> When you wash out your lids, get a washcloth and run the cloth inside the

> rim. You will see all the rush wipe off.

>

> This might seem like a lot of work, but when you do it and you get it down

> to a science, and then you grow your own food, well IT'S WORTH IT.

>

> Take care

>

> Melody

>

>

>

> >

> > Hi everyone,

> >

> > I just wanted to introduce myself. I'm a newbie at sprouting!

> >

> > I've been vegan for a few years then started eating more raw food and

> > eventually went all raw. But my raw diet is also high fruit, which

> > makes me concerned about getting enough minerals and amino acids. For

> > greens I eat lettuce, spinach (but I heard it can block iron

> > absorption), celery, cucumbers and tomatoes (although cucumbers and

> > tomatoes are more fruits.) I also eat some nuts, avocados and seeds.

> >

> > I'm really excited to learn about sprouting for the obvious reason of

> > nutrition, but also it will add texture and variety to my salads.

> > But I really don't know where to begin. What tools do I need? I heard

> > having a hemp bag may be helpful?

> >

> > Or should I purchase a sprouting machine?

> >

> > I know there are many videos on youtube, but I live here in China and

> > youtube is blocked.

> >

> > Thanks so much for your suggestions,

> > Jennie

> >

>

>

>

--

One Purpose . One Vision . One Heartbeat

[Guest guest]

Thia:

I am trying to figure out what kind of lids I can use to fit on top of the mason

jars (both small and wide mouth).

I gather you are referring to ordinary plastic lids that had originally fit on

another jar but now is of no use and I can re-fit them to go on my mason jars??

Is this what you mean?

Because I just looked in every kitchen cabinet I have and in the fridge and I

don't have anything with a plastic lid on them.

Any suggestions?

Thanks much, Melody

[Guest guest]

Sherry,

Does it have to be stainless steel? Will these do?

1. A typical window screen mesh

http://img03.taobaocdn.com/bao/uploaded/i3/T1DV0iXhBce0O8RUI9_104810.jpg_310x310\

..jpg

2. Nylon mesh

http://img02.taobaocdn.com/bao/uploaded/i2/T1.EJkXePTD0PUbQza_122022.jpg_310x310\

..jpg

3. I think this is stainless steel.

http://img04.taobaocdn.com/imgextra/i4/T1vmVjXXs7u0O6LfM9_103349.jpg_310x310.jpg

Thanks!

Jennie

On Thu, Sep 17, 2009 at 11:33 PM, Sherry Skapik <sherryskapik@...>wrote:

>

>

> Hi Jennie,

>

> I personally would only use stainless steel screen (if they make it), I

> don't trust aluminum. I would use at least 1 quart jars....smaller wouldn't

> produce much or leave much room for sprouts to grow.

> You don't have to refrigerate soaking seeds, or sprouting seeds for that

> matter.....being too cold would probably inhibit or stop the sprouting

> process. I don't even use a lid when soaking my seeds, but it wouldn't

> hurt. Chickpeas taste very similar to canned ones when sprouted (to me

> anyway). I have made raw hummus from sprouted chickpeas and it was pretty

> good.

>

> Jennie, for detailed sprouting info try Sproutpeople.com......they have a

> great site with info on almost any seeds and how to sprout or grow them.

>

>

> Sherry

>

> ________________________________

> From: Jennie Gao <jenniegao@... <jenniegao%40gmail.com>>

> <%40>

> Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2009 10:54:21 AM

> Subject: Re: Re: Newbie!

>

>

> Hi Melody, Sherry, and everyone,

>

> Thanks a bunch for the detailed instructions.

> Few questions -

>

> 1. Would window screen mesh work?

>

> 2. If I use glass jars, do they have to be quite big? (I only have small

> jars at home, does this mean I have to buy a bunch of glass jars?)

> Is a 400ml jar large enough?

>

> 3. When soaking the seeds/nuts, do I leave them in the fridge overnight, or

> room temperature? (with lid closed or open?)

>

> 4. How does chickpea sprouts taste? Like the canned version? I love

> chickpeas!

>

> So sprouting machines are not useful? Is it because they produce too much

> in

> quantity?

>

> Oh and since I live here in China, green bean sprouts and soy bean sprouts

> are very popular. But I'm always afraid to buy them, because one, soybeans

> might be GMO. Two, green bean sprouts, I heard they use bleached water.

>

> Thanks again!

> Jennie (*running to the kitchen to see what she has!*)

>

> On Wed, Sep 16, 2009 at 11:51 PM, melodylubart1 <eliz7212@...>wrote:

>

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > Hi Jennie:

> >

> > I was going to make you a video of how I made my jar strainers, but I

> just

> > read that you can't view youtube so I'll just explain what I did.

> >

> > I used to use cheesecloths and other such straining things to rinse and

> > drain my sprouts that were sprouting in my Mason Jars.

> >

> > but the water use to pool so I thought to myself " why should I buy a jar

> > with a built in strainer (or better yet, they see the strainers by

> > themselves), but the cost would be about $3.95 per lid (with strainer).

> So I

> > have 20 jars and I'm not about to spend all that money.

> >

> > So what did Melody do? Melody went to the local hardware store (You

> should

> > have SOMETHING SIMILAR where you live, right?)

> >

> > I bought a yard of aluminum mesh (or maybe it's stainless, I'm not sure).

> > It looks like a big screen rolled up.

> >

> > I simply took a red magic marker, outlined one of my lids (Placing all of

> > this on newspapers, so the red magic marker would not go on my kitchen

> > table).

> >

> > So I kept making red circles on this screen thing, until I had about ten

> of

> > them, (various sizes, because I have small mason jars and the big wide

> mouth

> > Mason Jars).

> >

> > I then took my scissors and cut out the circles and then I had 10

> beautiful

> > home made strainer things to fit right inside my lids.

> >

> > You have no idea how simple this is to do and when it fits, and when you

> > are going to rinse and drain your mason jars, well, you just pour the

> water

> > in, swish the sprouts, hold upside down over the sink until the water

> runs

> > out, tap tap tap, to get any remaining water out of the jar, and then

> take

> > your jar and tilt it on the drainboard (where the dishes are put to dry).

> >

> > The jars should be put on an angle so they drain completely.

> >

> > I've been doing this for 18 months now and I've got it down to a science.

> >

> > But the very important point about cutting the circles is to remember

> that

> > you are cutting metal stuff. Make sure you cut over something that will

> > catch them, and never do this near any sprouts or food because these tiny

> > metal strainers that you are cutting out, well, as you are cutting, you

> are

> > leaving shavings all over the place (including the scissors themselves).

> >

> > Always make sure there are no shavings left in your work area and no

> > shavings left on the scissors. I immediately take a clean napkin, wipe

> down

> > my scissors, and wash them and dry them.

> >

> > I have had absolutely no problem since I have been doing this.

> >

> > I replace the circle strainers every 5 months or so (if I see them

> getting

> > rusty). The same goes for my lids.

> >

> > When you wash out your lids, get a washcloth and run the cloth inside the

> > rim. You will see all the rush wipe off.

> >

> > This might seem like a lot of work, but when you do it and you get it

> down

> > to a science, and then you grow your own food, well IT'S WORTH IT.

> >

> > Take care

> >

> > Melody

> >

> >

> >

> > >

> > > Hi everyone,

> > >

> > > I just wanted to introduce myself. I'm a newbie at sprouting!

> > >

> > > I've been vegan for a few years then started eating more raw food and

> > > eventually went all raw. But my raw diet is also high fruit, which

> > > makes me concerned about getting enough minerals and amino acids. For

> > > greens I eat lettuce, spinach (but I heard it can block iron

> > > absorption), celery, cucumbers and tomatoes (although cucumbers and

> > > tomatoes are more fruits.) I also eat some nuts, avocados and seeds.

> > >

> > > I'm really excited to learn about sprouting for the obvious reason of

> > > nutrition, but also it will add texture and variety to my salads.

> > > But I really don't know where to begin. What tools do I need? I heard

> > > having a hemp bag may be helpful?

> > >

> > > Or should I purchase a sprouting machine?

> > >

> > > I know there are many videos on youtube, but I live here in China and

> > > youtube is blocked.

> > >

> > > Thanks so much for your suggestions,

> > > Jennie

> > >

> >

> >

> >

>

> --

> One Purpose . One Vision . One Heartbeat

>

>

[Guest guest]

Jennie, a piece of old pantyhose or shear stocking held on with a rubber

band works fine. You can wash a reuse them.ew

 

Re: Re: Newbie!

>

>

> Hi Melody, Sherry, and everyone,

>

> Thanks a bunch for the detailed instructions.

> Few questions -

>

> 1. Would window screen mesh work?

>

> 2. If I use glass jars, do they have to be quite big? (I only have

small

> jars at home, does this mean I have to buy a bunch of glass jars?)

> Is a 400ml jar large enough?

>

> 3. When soaking the seeds/nuts, do I leave them in the fridge

overnight, or

> room temperature? (with lid closed or open?)

>

> 4. How does chickpea sprouts taste? Like the canned version? I love

> chickpeas!

>

> So sprouting machines are not useful? Is it because they produce

too much

> in

> quantity?

>

> Oh and since I live here in China, green bean sprouts and soy bean

sprouts

> are very popular. But I'm always afraid to buy them, because one,

soybeans

> might be GMO. Two, green bean sprouts, I heard they use bleached

water.

>

> Thanks again!

> Jennie (*running to the kitchen to see what she has!*)

>

> On Wed, Sep 16, 2009 at 11:51 PM, melodylubart1 <eliz7212@...>wrote:

>

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > Hi Jennie:

> >

> > I was going to make you a video of how I made my jar strainers,

but I

> just

> > read that you can't view youtube so I'll just explain what I did.

> >

> > I used to use cheesecloths and other such straining things to

rinse and

> > drain my sprouts that were sprouting in my Mason Jars.

> >

> > but the water use to pool so I thought to myself " why should I

buy a jar

> > with a built in strainer (or better yet, they see the strainers

by

> > themselves), but the cost would be about $3.95 per lid (with

strainer).

> So I

> > have 20 jars and I'm not about to spend all that money.

> >

> > So what did Melody do? Melody went to the local hardware store

(You

> should

> > have SOMETHING SIMILAR where you live, right?)

> >

> > I bought a yard of aluminum mesh (or maybe it's stainless, I'm

not sure).

> > It looks like a big screen rolled up.

> >

> > I simply took a red magic marker, outlined one of my lids

(Placing all of

> > this on newspapers, so the red magic marker would not go on my

kitchen

> > table).

> >

> > So I kept making red circles on this screen thing, until I had

about ten

> of

> > them, (various sizes, because I have small mason jars and the big

wide

> mouth

> > Mason Jars).

> >

> > I then took my scissors and cut out the circles and then I had 10

> beautiful

> > home made strainer things to fit right inside my lids.

> >

> > You have no idea how simple this is to do and when it fits, and

when you

> > are going to rinse and drain your mason jars, well, you just pour

the

> water

> > in, swish the sprouts, hold upside down over the sink until the

water

> runs

> > out, tap tap tap, to get any remaining water out of the jar, and

then

> take

> > your jar and tilt it on the drainboard (where the dishes are put

to dry).

> >

> > The jars should be put on an angle so they drain completely.

> >

> > I've been doing this for 18 months now and I've got it down to a

science.

> >

> > But the very important point about cutting the circles is to

remember

> that

> > you are cutting metal stuff. Make sure you cut over something

that will

> > catch them, and never do this near any sprouts or food because

these tiny

> > metal strainers that you are cutting out, well, as you are

cutting, you

> are

> > leaving shavings all over the place (including the scissors

themselves).

> >

> > Always make sure there are no shavings left in your work area and

no

> > shavings left on the scissors. I immediately take a clean napkin,

wipe

> down

> > my scissors, and wash them and dry them.

> >

> > I have had absolutely no problem since I have been doing this.

> >

> > I replace the circle strainers every 5 months or so (if I see

them

> getting

> > rusty). The same goes for my lids.

> >

> > When you wash out your lids, get a washcloth and run the cloth

inside the

> > rim. You will see all the rush wipe off.

> >

> > This might seem like a lot of work, but when you do it and you

get it

> down

> > to a science, and then you grow your own food, well IT'S WORTH

IT.

> >

> > Take care

> >

> > Melody

> >

> >

> >

> > >

> > > Hi everyone,

> > >

> > > I just wanted to introduce myself. I'm a newbie at sprouting!

> > >

> > > I've been vegan for a few years then started eating more raw

food and

> > > eventually went all raw. But my raw diet is also high fruit,

which

> > > makes me concerned about getting enough minerals and amino

acids. For

> > > greens I eat lettuce, spinach (but I heard it can block iron

> > > absorption), celery, cucumbers and tomatoes (although cucumbers

and

> > > tomatoes are more fruits.) I also eat some nuts, avocados and

seeds.

> > >

> > > I'm really excited to learn about sprouting for the obvious

reason of

> > > nutrition, but also it will add texture and variety to my

salads.

> > > But I really don't know where to begin. What tools do I need? I

heard

> > > having a hemp bag may be helpful?

> > >

> > > Or should I purchase a sprouting machine?

> > >

> > > I know there are many videos on youtube, but I live here in

China and

> > > youtube is blocked.

> > >

> > > Thanks so much for your suggestions,

> > > Jennie

> > >

> >

> >

> >

>

> --

> One Purpose . One Vision . One Heartbeat

>

>

[Guest guest]

Ernest,

haha ok! I'm a perfectionist by nature. *sigh*

Jennie

On Fri, Sep 18, 2009 at 1:26 AM, Ernest Willingham

<99tomatoes@...>wrote:

>

>

> Jennie, a piece of old pantyhose or shear stocking held on with a rubber

> band works fine. You can wash a reuse them.ew

>

>

>

>

> Re: Re: Newbie!

> >

> >

> > Hi Melody, Sherry, and everyone,

> >

> > Thanks a bunch for the detailed instructions.

> > Few questions -

> >

> > 1. Would window screen mesh work?

> >

> > 2. If I use glass jars, do they have to be quite big? (I only have

> small

> > jars at home, does this mean I have to buy a bunch of glass jars?)

> > Is a 400ml jar large enough?

> >

> > 3. When soaking the seeds/nuts, do I leave them in the fridge

> overnight, or

> > room temperature? (with lid closed or open?)

> >

> > 4. How does chickpea sprouts taste? Like the canned version? I love

> > chickpeas!

> >

> > So sprouting machines are not useful? Is it because they produce

> too much

> > in

> > quantity?

> >

> > Oh and since I live here in China, green bean sprouts and soy bean

> sprouts

> > are very popular. But I'm always afraid to buy them, because one,

> soybeans

> > might be GMO. Two, green bean sprouts, I heard they use bleached

> water.

> >

> > Thanks again!

> > Jennie (*running to the kitchen to see what she has!*)

> >

> > On Wed, Sep 16, 2009 at 11:51 PM, melodylubart1

<eliz7212@...<eliz7212%40verizon.net>

> >wrote:

> >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > > Hi Jennie:

> > >

> > > I was going to make you a video of how I made my jar strainers,

> but I

> > just

> > > read that you can't view youtube so I'll just explain what I did.

> > >

> > > I used to use cheesecloths and other such straining things to

> rinse and

> > > drain my sprouts that were sprouting in my Mason Jars.

> > >

> > > but the water use to pool so I thought to myself " why should I

> buy a jar

> > > with a built in strainer (or better yet, they see the strainers

> by

> > > themselves), but the cost would be about $3.95 per lid (with

> strainer).

> > So I

> > > have 20 jars and I'm not about to spend all that money.

> > >

> > > So what did Melody do? Melody went to the local hardware store

> (You

> > should

> > > have SOMETHING SIMILAR where you live, right?)

> > >

> > > I bought a yard of aluminum mesh (or maybe it's stainless, I'm

> not sure).

> > > It looks like a big screen rolled up.

> > >

> > > I simply took a red magic marker, outlined one of my lids

> (Placing all of

> > > this on newspapers, so the red magic marker would not go on my

> kitchen

> > > table).

> > >

> > > So I kept making red circles on this screen thing, until I had

> about ten

> > of

> > > them, (various sizes, because I have small mason jars and the big

> wide

> > mouth

> > > Mason Jars).

> > >

> > > I then took my scissors and cut out the circles and then I had 10

> > beautiful

> > > home made strainer things to fit right inside my lids.

> > >

> > > You have no idea how simple this is to do and when it fits, and

> when you

> > > are going to rinse and drain your mason jars, well, you just pour

> the

> > water

> > > in, swish the sprouts, hold upside down over the sink until the

> water

> > runs

> > > out, tap tap tap, to get any remaining water out of the jar, and

> then

> > take

> > > your jar and tilt it on the drainboard (where the dishes are put

> to dry).

> > >

> > > The jars should be put on an angle so they drain completely.

> > >

> > > I've been doing this for 18 months now and I've got it down to a

> science.

> > >

> > > But the very important point about cutting the circles is to

> remember

> > that

> > > you are cutting metal stuff. Make sure you cut over something

> that will

> > > catch them, and never do this near any sprouts or food because

> these tiny

> > > metal strainers that you are cutting out, well, as you are

> cutting, you

> > are

> > > leaving shavings all over the place (including the scissors

> themselves).

> > >

> > > Always make sure there are no shavings left in your work area and

> no

> > > shavings left on the scissors. I immediately take a clean napkin,

> wipe

> > down

> > > my scissors, and wash them and dry them.

> > >

> > > I have had absolutely no problem since I have been doing this.

> > >

> > > I replace the circle strainers every 5 months or so (if I see

> them

> > getting

> > > rusty). The same goes for my lids.

> > >

> > > When you wash out your lids, get a washcloth and run the cloth

> inside the

> > > rim. You will see all the rush wipe off.

> > >

> > > This might seem like a lot of work, but when you do it and you

> get it

> > down

> > > to a science, and then you grow your own food, well IT'S WORTH

> IT.

> > >

> > > Take care

> > >

> > > Melody

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > > >

> > > > Hi everyone,

> > > >

> > > > I just wanted to introduce myself. I'm a newbie at sprouting!

> > > >

> > > > I've been vegan for a few years then started eating more raw

> food and

> > > > eventually went all raw. But my raw diet is also high fruit,

> which

> > > > makes me concerned about getting enough minerals and amino

> acids. For

> > > > greens I eat lettuce, spinach (but I heard it can block iron

> > > > absorption), celery, cucumbers and tomatoes (although cucumbers

> and

> > > > tomatoes are more fruits.) I also eat some nuts, avocados and

> seeds.

> > > >

> > > > I'm really excited to learn about sprouting for the obvious

> reason of

> > > > nutrition, but also it will add texture and variety to my

> salads.

> > > > But I really don't know where to begin. What tools do I need? I

> heard

> > > > having a hemp bag may be helpful?

> > > >

> > > > Or should I purchase a sprouting machine?

> > > >

> > > > I know there are many videos on youtube, but I live here in

> China and

> > > > youtube is blocked.

> > > >

> > > > Thanks so much for your suggestions,

> > > > Jennie

> > > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> >

> > --

> > One Purpose . One Vision . One Heartbeat

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

The particular lids I used were actually plastic sprouting lids, with

plastic mesh in the center. I found that they did not drain well, so I cut

out the center, and use the wire mesh inserted. (I bought them decades ago,

but I think they are still being sold.)

But, yes, if you had any other plastic lids that fit, they would work. But,

heck, why not just buy a few of the already cut ones that has

now? They look really nice! Cutting the plastic yourself takes a lot of

patience! And quite frankly, I doubt will produce a smooth finish; mine are

not.

If you eat canned goods- Dole has canned fruit, in plastic " mason " jars,

with plastic lids that should fit the regular mouth jars-- maybe; I've not

checked this out, but they look like it.

Thia

On Thu, Sep 17, 2009 at 12:07 PM, Melody <eliz7212@...> wrote:

>

>

> Thia:

>

> I am trying to figure out what kind of lids I can use to fit on top of the

> mason jars (both small and wide mouth).

>

> I gather you are referring to ordinary plastic lids that had originally fit

> on another jar but now is of no use and I can re-fit them to go on my mason

> jars??

>

> Is this what you mean?

>

> Because I just looked in every kitchen cabinet I have and in the fridge and

> I don't have anything with a plastic lid on them.

>

> Any suggestions?

>

> Thanks much, Melody

>

>

[Guest guest]

Jennie,

Nylon or stainless steel will work, or like EW says, old pantyhose. 

Sherry

________________________________

From: Jennie Gao <jenniegao@...>

Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2009 12:28:24 PM

Subject: Re: Re: Newbie!

 

Sherry,

Does it have to be stainless steel? Will these do?

1. A typical window screen mesh

http://img03. taobaocdn. com/bao/uploaded /i3/T1DV0iXhBce0 O8RUI9_104810.

jpg_310x310. jpg

2. Nylon mesh

http://img02. taobaocdn. com/bao/uploaded /i2/T1.EJkXePTD0 PUbQza_122022.

jpg_310x310. jpg

3. I think this is stainless steel.

http://img04. taobaocdn. com/imgextra/ i4/T1vmVjXXs7u0O 6LfM9_103349.

jpg_310x310. jpg

Thanks!

Jennie

On Thu, Sep 17, 2009 at 11:33 PM, Sherry Skapik <sherryskapik>wrote:

>

>

> Hi Jennie,

>

> I personally would only use stainless steel screen (if they make it), I

> don't trust aluminum. I would use at least 1 quart jars....smaller wouldn't

> produce much or leave much room for sprouts to grow.

> You don't have to refrigerate soaking seeds, or sprouting seeds for that

> matter.....being too cold would probably inhibit or stop the sprouting

> process. I don't even use a lid when soaking my seeds, but it wouldn't

> hurt. Chickpeas taste very similar to canned ones when sprouted (to me

> anyway). I have made raw hummus from sprouted chickpeas and it was pretty

> good.

>

> Jennie, for detailed sprouting info try Sproutpeople. com...... they have a

> great site with info on almost any seeds and how to sprout or grow them.

>

>

> Sherry

>

> ____________ _________ _________ __

> From: Jennie Gao <jenniegaogmail (DOT) com <jenniegao%40gmail. com>>

> <% 40groups. com>

> Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2009 10:54:21 AM

> Subject: Re: Re: Newbie!

>

>

> Hi Melody, Sherry, and everyone,

>

> Thanks a bunch for the detailed instructions.

> Few questions -

>

> 1. Would window screen mesh work?

>

> 2. If I use glass jars, do they have to be quite big? (I only have small

> jars at home, does this mean I have to buy a bunch of glass jars?)

> Is a 400ml jar large enough?

>

> 3. When soaking the seeds/nuts, do I leave them in the fridge overnight, or

> room temperature? (with lid closed or open?)

>

> 4. How does chickpea sprouts taste? Like the canned version? I love

> chickpeas!

>

> So sprouting machines are not useful? Is it because they produce too much

> in

> quantity?

>

> Oh and since I live here in China, green bean sprouts and soy bean sprouts

> are very popular. But I'm always afraid to buy them, because one, soybeans

> might be GMO. Two, green bean sprouts, I heard they use bleached water.

>

> Thanks again!

> Jennie (*running to the kitchen to see what she has!*)

>

> On Wed, Sep 16, 2009 at 11:51 PM, melodylubart1 <eliz7212verizon (DOT) net>wrote:

>

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > Hi Jennie:

> >

> > I was going to make you a video of how I made my jar strainers, but I

> just

> > read that you can't view youtube so I'll just explain what I did.

> >

> > I used to use cheesecloths and other such straining things to rinse and

> > drain my sprouts that were sprouting in my Mason Jars.

> >

> > but the water use to pool so I thought to myself " why should I buy a jar

> > with a built in strainer (or better yet, they see the strainers by

> > themselves), but the cost would be about $3.95 per lid (with strainer).

> So I

> > have 20 jars and I'm not about to spend all that money.

> >

> > So what did Melody do? Melody went to the local hardware store (You

> should

> > have SOMETHING SIMILAR where you live, right?)

> >

> > I bought a yard of aluminum mesh (or maybe it's stainless, I'm not sure).

> > It looks like a big screen rolled up.

> >

> > I simply took a red magic marker, outlined one of my lids (Placing all of

> > this on newspapers, so the red magic marker would not go on my kitchen

> > table).

> >

> > So I kept making red circles on this screen thing, until I had about ten

> of

> > them, (various sizes, because I have small mason jars and the big wide

> mouth

> > Mason Jars).

> >

> > I then took my scissors and cut out the circles and then I had 10

> beautiful

> > home made strainer things to fit right inside my lids.

> >

> > You have no idea how simple this is to do and when it fits, and when you

> > are going to rinse and drain your mason jars, well, you just pour the

> water

> > in, swish the sprouts, hold upside down over the sink until the water

> runs

> > out, tap tap tap, to get any remaining water out of the jar, and then

> take

> > your jar and tilt it on the drainboard (where the dishes are put to dry).

> >

> > The jars should be put on an angle so they drain completely.

> >

> > I've been doing this for 18 months now and I've got it down to a science.

> >

> > But the very important point about cutting the circles is to remember

> that

> > you are cutting metal stuff. Make sure you cut over something that will

> > catch them, and never do this near any sprouts or food because these tiny

> > metal strainers that you are cutting out, well, as you are cutting, you

> are

> > leaving shavings all over the place (including the scissors themselves).

> >

> > Always make sure there are no shavings left in your work area and no

> > shavings left on the scissors. I immediately take a clean napkin, wipe

> down

> > my scissors, and wash them and dry them.

> >

> > I have had absolutely no problem since I have been doing this.

> >

> > I replace the circle strainers every 5 months or so (if I see them

> getting

> > rusty). The same goes for my lids.

> >

> > When you wash out your lids, get a washcloth and run the cloth inside the

> > rim. You will see all the rush wipe off.

> >

> > This might seem like a lot of work, but when you do it and you get it

> down

> > to a science, and then you grow your own food, well IT'S WORTH IT.

> >

> > Take care

> >

> > Melody

> >

> >

> >

> > >

> > > Hi everyone,

> > >

> > > I just wanted to introduce myself. I'm a newbie at sprouting!

> > >

> > > I've been vegan for a few years then started eating more raw food and

> > > eventually went all raw. But my raw diet is also high fruit, which

> > > makes me concerned about getting enough minerals and amino acids. For

> > > greens I eat lettuce, spinach (but I heard it can block iron

> > > absorption), celery, cucumbers and tomatoes (although cucumbers and

> > > tomatoes are more fruits.) I also eat some nuts, avocados and seeds.

> > >

> > > I'm really excited to learn about sprouting for the obvious reason of

> > > nutrition, but also it will add texture and variety to my salads.

> > > But I really don't know where to begin. What tools do I need? I heard

> > > having a hemp bag may be helpful?

> > >

> > > Or should I purchase a sprouting machine?

> > >

> > > I know there are many videos on youtube, but I live here in China and

> > > youtube is blocked.

> > >

> > > Thanks so much for your suggestions,

> > > Jennie

> > >

> >

> >

> >

>

> --

> One Purpose . One Vision . One Heartbeat

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi

Welcome to our forum where I hope you will get all the help and support you need. You will have already found that this is a very busy forum and it sometimes takes time to get round to responding to everybody. If you opted to receive Individual Emails when you registered, you might want to consider changing this to receive messages via a Daily Digest - because we have been known to receive over 2500 in a four week period LOL.

Sorry to hear that you have been ill for so long. It is SO annoying when a doctor believes you may be suffering with thyroid problems, yet they go on to ignore all your symptoms and signs and just look at your blood results. The reason why you probably had such problems taking levothyroxine are many, and your GP should have checked for these. What he should have done is to give you blood tests to find out whether any of the following are low in the reference range (you should still get these done now) - Ferritin (stored iron), vitamin B12, vitamin D3, magnesium, zinc, copper and folate. If any of these are low in the reference range, it means your thyroid hormone cannot be absorbed, so you have T4 floating around in your blood with nowhere to go. T4, because it is a mainly inactive thyroid hormone must convert through the liver, kidneys and other thyroid hormone receptors into the active hormone triiodothyronine - or T3 for short. T3 needs to get into every cell in your body and brain to make them function. Sadly, the thyroid gland function tests ONLY show whether your thyroid gland is excreting sufficient amounts of thyroid hormone - blood tests do not show whether you are suffering with thyroid hormone resistance or thyroid hormone reception. Doctors then don't know what to do if you still complain of symptoms - apart from giving you a diagnosis of 'Functional Somatoform disorder' (meaning it's all in your head) or declaring your symptoms are 'non-specific' and putting you on a course of antidepressants, telling you to take more exercise, go on a diet, and generally get a life. This happens too often because doctors are not trained in proper diagnosing nor are they trained how to treat peripheral thyroid hormone resistance.

Has your GP tested to find out whether you have thyroid antibodies - if not, ask him to do this. You could be suffering with Hashimoto's disease. The antibodies see your thyroid gland as public enemy number one and set about its destruction.

Because your body is not getting the thyroid hormone it requires, this could be the reason you are now getting these unpleasant symptoms. Perhaps you need to consider seeing a doctor privately such as Dr Peatfield. He knows more about thyroid and adrenal problems than any doctor in the UK I know. People are queuing up to see him.

Please ask your GP to give you the last thyroid gland function tests together with the reference and post them on the forum. He cannot withhold these from you. If it would be better, write him a letter and ask for these, and put in a stamped addressed envelope.

I think that your problem could be that you are suffering with adrenal insufficiency. Many hypothyroid patients suffer with this and if this is the case, again, no amount of thyroid hormone is going to work, and if taken, will give you toxic symptoms, as you appear to be getting on either T4 or 20mcgs T3. You can get this tested at Genova Diagnostics www.gdx.uk.net . This is an expensive test at £70, but it is worth every penny. Beg, borrow or steal to get this test done. Also, another condition that stops thyroid hormone from being absorbed is systemic candidiasis.

Go to our web site www.tpa-uk.org.uk and click on 'Hypothyroiodism' and then on the drop down Menu, click on 'Associated Conditions' - there you can read about Adrenal Insufficiency and the thyroid connection, about Candida and the thyroid connection and about mercury and the thyroid connection. If there is anything you don't understand, just shout, and somebody will be along to help you and try to find some answers.

Be assured, there is light at the end of the tunnel. You are not alone, and we have had many members join us who have suffered as you are, and got their health and life back again.

Luv - Sheila

> Hi, I have been ill off and on for nearly 2 years now, last year my doctor> thought i may have thyroid problems although my tsh! was within the normal> range - iwas overweight, balding! ( i wish he had put it more kindly!!:}> have cold after cold - he put me on T4 but within 2 days i had anxiety,> palpatations, no sleep, itching and horrendous headaches - he fetched me off> it and said would retest in 6 months. > This july my joints just started swelling whilst on holiday - i could hardly> walk - i saw a local gp who gave me steroids and told me to see doctor on my> return for blood tests - the steroids did nothing but then i also had to> contend with drenching sweats amy time of the day and night and i couldn't> get through a meal as i thought i was heating from the inside out. I saw gp> had bloods tested for joint problems, menopause - all ok - more bloods -> still ok saw different gp ( one i saw re thyroid ) he did thyroid test -> within normal range so no thyroid fig. given - more bloods this time looking> for thyroid antibodies - present! whilst this going on he put me on T3 -> again within 2 days sweats increased i could feel my blood pumping round my> body would lie on bed and my body would pound along with my head which felt> like an axe was being put through it -my emotions all over the place- pain> killers just did nothing - rang doctor and got me in next day - blood> presure up - took me off T3! he now says he is writing to Dr S. in B-ham for> advice as can't prescibe anything else and doesn't understand why i am> having such advers reaction to such low doses 20mg T3 and 25mg T4!> Any ideas would be appreciated - headaches now gone and feel i can think> straight again but know not the solution. > > > > No virus found in this incoming message.> Checked by AVG - www.avg.com> Version: 8.5.409 / Virus Database: 270.13.113/2396 - Release Date: 09/29/09> 05:54:00>

[Guest guest]

Hi, I have RRMS, which so far is thankfully very mild. My first episode was

about 12 years ago, and since then I've had about one exacerbation every 1 1/2

to 2 years, approximately. Usually it's my vision, although once it was my

bladder and another time I had weird spells where I couldn't steer my legs for

about 10 minutes, and then they were fine again; this happened about twice a

week for 3 or 4 months. I was on Avonex for several years, but not continuously

since I went off of it a couple of times to have children. Avonex always caused

me terrible side effects, I was usually totally down and out for at least a day

and a half after my shot (tired, achy, fever, headache, etc). In spite of being

on the Avonex, I usually had a new lesion or two on my yearly MRI. We moved

last year, so I am not with the same doctor anymore, and I don't know if he ever

prescribes LDN anyway.

After I learned about LDN, I managed to get a prescription for it from my new

neurologist (he called it a " powerful placebo " ), but his fellow told me flat out

that they don't condone using LDN as the only treatment, and would prefer that I

go on one of the conventional treatments as well. The one he prescribed was

Avonex, but obviously the first thing I found out when I started looking around

to get my LDN prescription filled was that LDN and Avonex are incompatible. So

I canceled the Avonex, but now I'm not sure what to do. The logical thing if I

was going to go ahead with one of the CRABs would be Copaxone, but I really

don't relish the idea of being a human pincushion, nor am I convinced Copaxone

really does anything. I've never known anyone who did well on Copaxone.

The fact that my current neuro prescribed me LDN and Avonex at the same time,

plus just gave me the LDN prescription without any discussion whatsoever of what

to expect with it, tells me he really doesn't know much (or care much) about it.

He also only prescribed 100 days worth, with no refills, so I'm not even sure

what's up with that. I went ahead and ordered it from Skip's Pharmacy and

started it a few days ago (3 mg at bedtime), and so far I seem to be doing well

on it other than not sleeping well and the first day I had a terrible headache.

There was also a big low pressure weather system approaching, so I don't even

know if the LDN was the cause, and the headache went away the next day.

So I guess since I'm completely without support with respect to the LDN, my

first question is: Does anyone know a good doctor who knows about LDN in the

Houston, Texas area? Or at least how I can go about finding one? If not, is a

phone consultation with someone in another state a viable option?

My next question is has anyone had good success being on LDN and Copaxone both,

or is the Copaxone just a waste of money, effort, and healthy skin? I'm

cautiously hopeful that since my MS has been mild so far, that maybe I have a

good chance of the LDN stopping the progression to more serious disease.

I hope this isn't too much information, but I feel like I have no support and

I'm totally on my own with this, which is very intimidating! Any suggestions or

tips would be greatly appreciated...

Thanks!

Alice

[Guest guest]

DX RRMS 7/31/02, I didn't want to be a pincushion either and after going on MSWatch before LDN, I wasn't impressed with the people ON copaxone and decided against all the CRABs

I started 3.0 on 4/17/2003 and have been on it since, 6 MRIs, no progression since LDN; and my C5 & T5 issues are gone as well.

http://www.larrygc.com/mystory is my story

good luck

(btw, I was told copaxone every other day is just as effective.. they even suggested every 3rd day as well... as a bargaining chip to get me on it)

[low dose naltrexone] Newbie!

Hi, I have RRMS, which so far is thankfully very mild. My first episode was about 12 years ago, and since then I've had about one exacerbation every 1 1/2 to 2 years, approximately. Usually it's my vision, although once it was my bladder and another time I had weird spells where I couldn't steer my legs for about 10 minutes, and then they were fine again; this happened about twice a week for 3 or 4 months. I was on Avonex for several years, but not continuously since I went off of it a couple of times to have children. Avonex always caused me terrible side effects, I was usually totally down and out for at least a day and a half after my shot (tired, achy, fever, headache, etc). In spite of being on the Avonex, I usually had a new lesion or two on my yearly MRI. We moved last year, so I am not with the same doctor anymore, and I don't know if he ever prescribes LDN anyway.After I learned about LDN, I managed to get a prescription for it from my new neurologist (he called it a "powerful placebo"), but his fellow told me flat out that they don't condone using LDN as the only treatment, and would prefer that I go on one of the conventional treatments as well. The one he prescribed was Avonex, but obviously the first thing I found out when I started looking around to get my LDN prescription filled was that LDN and Avonex are incompatible. So I canceled the Avonex, but now I'm not sure what to do. The logical thing if I was going to go ahead with one of the CRABs would be Copaxone, but I really don't relish the idea of being a human pincushion, nor am I convinced Copaxone really does anything. I've never known anyone who did well on Copaxone.The fact that my current neuro prescribed me LDN and Avonex at the same time, plus just gave me the LDN prescription without any discussion whatsoever of what to expect with it, tells me he really doesn't know much (or care much) about it. He also only prescribed 100 days worth, with no refills, so I'm not even sure what's up with that. I went ahead and ordered it from Skip's Pharmacy and started it a few days ago (3 mg at bedtime), and so far I seem to be doing well on it other than not sleeping well and the first day I had a terrible headache. There was also a big low pressure weather system approaching, so I don't even know if the LDN was the cause, and the headache went away the next day.So I guess since I'm completely without support with respect to the LDN, my first question is: Does anyone know a good doctor who knows about LDN in the Houston, Texas area? Or at least how I can go about finding one? If not, is a phone consultation with someone in another state a viable option? My next question is has anyone had good success being on LDN and Copaxone both, or is the Copaxone just a waste of money, effort, and healthy skin? I'm cautiously hopeful that since my MS has been mild so far, that maybe I have a good chance of the LDN stopping the progression to more serious disease.I hope this isn't too much information, but I feel like I have no support and I'm totally on my own with this, which is very intimidating! Any suggestions or tips would be greatly appreciated...Thanks!Alice------------------------------------