Glucosinolates are a group of sulfur-containing glycosides found in many plant species, including radishes (root vegetables) and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, and cauliflower.  As part of the cruciferae family, radishes are excellent for maintaining gut health and preventing inflammation. 

Radishes were cultivated extensively by the Egyptians in the time of the Pharaohs and were highly esteemed by the ancient Greeks. Radishes are presently eaten in many parts of the world in a variety of ways:  juiced, raw, cooked, brined, fermented (pickled), and dried. 

Like other members of the cruciferous vegetable family, radishes contain glucosinolates. These are sulfur-containing compounds that help protect cells from cancer-causing genetic mutations. Unique to the radish members of this family are their anthocyanins, which is a blue, violet or red flavonoid pigment found in plants. (These pigments are most well-known for their free-radical scavenging and antioxidant properties). These potent flavonoids not only provide the radish with its red hue, but also are anti-inflammatory in nature which aids in prevention and protection against illnesses. 

Sulforaphane, a phytochemical available primarily in cruciferous plants, shows immune-strengthening effects, is used therapeutically as well as preventatively and has evidently antioxidative and cell-protecting properties. Latest research results prove that the active substance even is able to reduce social and communicative challenges in those with autism. (Click here for more information on the healing benefits of cruciferous plants such as broccoli). 

Important to note: there is research that it is critical for people who have thyroid insufficiency to avoid bitter-tasting vegetables such as radishes as autism can be linked to hypothyroidism.  So before adding uber-healthy radishes to your juicing recipes and salads, please check with your doctor to ensure that consuming radishes will not upset your thyroid balance. ​

I was invited to talk with realtor Faby Gonzalez, the host of Good Day Chula Vista for Episode #18 to talk about my journey with a child with autism and how my son Jovan helped raise my awareness to live a better, healthier life.  Healthy, organic eating habits changed not only my family, but also the lives of many of my loved ones and co-workers. I was thankful for the invitation to talk with my good friend Faby about these important topics. Please view the Facebook live video below. 

In July, James from Inner Fire Podcast interviewed me in a podcast called "Episode 008 Inner Fire Interviews: Jovan's Journey."

​Please read the story here:  http://innerfirepodcast.com/jovansjourney/ 
Please listen to the podcast here:  http://traffic.libsyn.com/in…/008_Stephany_JovansJourney.mp3

"This week we hear from our friend Stephany about treating her son, Jovan, with a ketogenic diet to help him adapt and overcome his own challenges and obstacles growing up as a non-verbal autistic child. His progress is incredible, and it’s absolutely thrilling to witness."

Inner Fire Podcast explores information about the journey towards health, fitness, and peace of mind.

Polyphenols are micro nutrients that we get through certain plant-based foods.  They're packed with antioxidants and potential health benefits. It's thought that polyphenols can improve or help treat digestion and weight management issues, diabetes, neurodegenerative disease, and cardiovascular disease.  

70% of your immune system lives in your digestive tract. Your body's naturally-occurring probiotics feed on polyphenols. A polyphenol-rich diet can help you feel better and digest your food better. That's right, eating foods with polyphenols can help fuel our own probiotics, making our own digestive systems healthier. 

It's best to get polyphenols by eating foods containing them rather than via supplements, which can limit iron absorption. There are polyphenol blends available for purchase, but they need to be soy-free, lactose-free and manufactured to cGMP standards and have the same high polyphenol content you'd receive if you simple at the food itself, rather than purchase a supplement. 

The best way we've found to harness the highest nutrient content of these powerful foods is to eat them raw and also blend them to add to our kombucha and daily blended juices.  This has a wonderful effect on my family's health. It helps to detoxify and reduce the inflammation Jovan experiences in his gut.  As I've said before, all health begins in the gut, and that's one of the main places we started to try to heal Jovan with his digestive health.

The five videos below detail my process of making kombucha at home. Please let me know if you have any comments or questions!

Our organic garden-fresh ingredients for our own ketogenic pizza came from our own backyard. We used organic tomatoes and basil and stewed them over low heat for about 20 minutes to bring out the flavors.  We sauteed organic garlic cloves and basil in olive oil.  Smells delicious! We steamed cauliflower with garlic in water with about a tablespoon of olive oil. Jovan loved the ketogenic organic meat and greens with homemade balsamic vinaigrette dressing. So tasty! 

Here are a few of our favorite organic greens that make healthy, nutrient-dense green juices.  These have greatly helped Jovan on his healing path: 

• Kale - Anti-inflamatory and helps to protect the body against harmful bacteria and viruses.
• Spinach - Powerful antioxidant packed with B vitamins, vitamins A, C, E, and K, trace minerals like copper and magnesium.   
• Watercress - High in calcium, iron, vitamin C, vitamin K, phytonutrients, and antioxidants.
• Parsley -  Known for its ability to draw out toxic heavy metals and expel them from the body. 
• Broccoli - High in folate, phosphorus, choline, potassium and copper.  
• Collard Greens - High in protein, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. 
• Celery - Rich fiber content, reduces inflammation and very beneficial to the gut.
• Rainbow Chard - Nutritional powerhouse and an excellent source of vitamins K, A and C. Good source of magnesium, potassium, iron, and fiber. 
• Cucumber - Contain multiple B vitamins, including B1, B5 and B7. High water and fiber content to aid in digestion.

We often add lemon and green apples to our juices.   The best thing about these juices is that the ingredients can come from your own organic garden! 

Let's be honest, daily blended vegetable shakes are tasty, but our kiddos might not agree.  Jovan found a way to make his daily raw veggie shake fun!  ​