thebodyorganic+

Healthy Ways To Permanent Weight Loss

2011-04-04T13:34:00.000-07:00

You won't lose weight on a diet of celery sticks and dry toast. Your body will just think it's starving and hang onto those extra pounds! Rather, to lose weight effectively and permanently, you need to eat. And eat smart. Happily, there are a host of delicious edibles designed by nature to turn up your fat-burning furnace, flatten your belly, and take a big bite out of your appetite.
Included in the long list of fat fighting foods are pistachios, grapefruits, avocados, olive oil, whole grains, red pepper, and mushrooms.
http://www.realage.com/eat-smart/food-and-nutrition/top-11-foods-for-weight-loss?src=edit&chan=tip&con=tip&click=p4

All The Nutriton You Want

2010-12-07T12:04:00.000-08:00

As part of a healthy diet, whole foods play a significant role in helping our bodies function optimally. There are hundreds of extremely nutritious whole foods, but the dozen on this list do more than contribute healthy nutrients — they help you heal. In fact, every food on this list boasts multiple healing effects, from fighting cancer to reducing cholesterol, guarding against heart disease, and more. Eat these super-healing picks and start feeling pretty super yourself.

Read more: http://www.care2.com/greenliving/12-foods-with-super-healing-powers.html#ixzz17ST4xIFp

Best Food for Healthy Eyes

2010-12-01T02:44:00.000-08:00

Vision tends to decline a little with age, often because of changes that occur to aging eye structures. But a healthy lifestyle might help minimize the effects of those changes and also reduce your risk of serious conditions -- like cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. Step one: Nosh on more vision-friendly foods.
Diets that contain ample amounts of vitamin C, vitamin E, beta carotene, and zinc are associated with a greatly reduced risk of age related macular degeneration, an eye disease that is common with aging and can lead to blindness. Good sources of these nutrients: fresh produce, nuts, fortified cereals, and supplements.
Diet plays a role in many disease processes, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness in people over the age of 55. In a recent study of people in this age group, those who reported the highest intake of vitamin C, vitamin E, beta carotene, and zinc were significantly less likely to develop AMD than those who had the lowest intake. Fill up on oranges, mangoes, and strawberries for vitamin C. Kidney beans are a good source of zinc which is vital for healthy eyes. Almonds and peanut butter, or a supplement, can help boost your intake of vitamin E. Sweet potatoes, apricots, and peaches are excellent sources of beta carotene. Other nutrients that appear to be beneficial for eye health include lutein and zeaxanthin Like beta carotene, they are caretenoids found in various kinds of fruits and vegetables. Good sources of lutein include spinach, peas, and green bell peppers. Good sources of zeaxanthin include corn, spinach, orange bell peppers, and tangerines.
Best natural sources for eye health

Eat Healthy On The Cheap

2010-11-29T09:00:00.000-08:00

We have all heard the excuses why eating healthy is sooooooo expensive. Hogwash!!

There are many ways you can afford a healthy, nutritious diet without breaking the bank.

Its worth keeping in mind that what gives us the most bang for our buck is not the pre-packaged, DOA foods we see so much of in the supermarket. It's the natural wholesome gifts of a plant and fruit based diet from God's green earth.

And for a change, try cooking your own food y'all.

Eat in. Restaurant meals are pricey and rarely use the highest quality ingredients. Learn to whip up a few cheap and easy meals — a great omelet, a highly spiced bean and vegetable stew — and you’ll save yourself a bundle.

Eat in season. It’s almost always cheaper, and probably better for your body.

Eat less meat. Meat’s expensive on any budget, and most people eat too much of it. Shift your intake to vegetarian (cheaper) sources of protein, and use meat in small portions, as an addition to meals, rather than the main feature.

Eat less in general. What would happen if you cut your daily caloric intake by 10 percent? In theory, you’d cut your food budget by 10 percent as well, and you’d probably fare better for it. (And some very compelling research suggests that restricting calorie intake can increase lifespan and reduce the incidence of age-related disease.)

Healthy Foods to fight off inflammation

2010-03-13T04:30:00.000-08:00

The signs of inflammation are many and varied — it’s been linked to everything from bloating to joint pain to sinus congestion and skin rashes. Although a clinical assessment is the only way to determine for sure if you suffer from inflammation, the more of the following symptoms you experience, the more likely you have low-grade inflammation, says Mark Hyman, MD, author of The UltraSimple Diet (Pocket Books, 2007).
Diarrhea or constipation, bloating, belching, gas, fatigue, sluggishness, itchy ears or eyes, dark circles or bags under eyes, joint pain or stiffness, throat tickle, irritation or coughing, stuffy noise, excessive mucus, acne, cysts, hives or rashes, ruddy, inflamed-looking skin, water retention, skin puffiness, craving certain foods, compulsive or binge eating.Inflammation is fixable: “Our best tool to reverse inflammation isn’t a drug, but our diets,” says Barry Sears, PhD, a former research scientist at Boston University School of Medicine and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and author of the forthcoming Toxic Fat Syndrome.
Incorporate these herbs and spices into your diet, you get great flavors with healing properties. Researchers from the University of Michigan have found, for example, that basil has anti-inflammatory activity compared to ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin!.
The top anti-inflammatory herbs and spices are: Ginger, Turmeric, Black Pepper, Cinnamon, Rosemary, Basil, Cardamon, Chives. Cilantro, Cloves, Garlic, Parsley.

Healthy and Hearty Soups

2010-02-09T09:16:00.001-08:00

This peasant-style potato and kale soup will keep you warm. Fresh deep green kale works well in savory soups and fresh salads. Feel free to use other winter greens instead of kale such as collards or even spinach.
INGREDIENTS 6 ounces chorizo, cut in half lengthwise and sliced 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 onion, chopped 8 cups turkey or chicken stock 8 potatoes, peeled and sliced 6 cloves garlic, peeled, root ends trimmed 1 bunch kale, trimmed, washed and thinly sliced salt, to taste freshly ground black pepper, to taste
PREPARATION 1. Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add chorizo and cook, stirring, until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain the chorizo on paper towels and set aside.
2. In a heavy stockpot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions and saute until softened, 5 to 10 minutes. Add turkey or chicken stock, potatoes and garlic and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, until potatoes are tender, 10 to 15 minutes.
3. With a slotted spoon, transfer the potatoes and garlic to a bowl; lightly mash with a fork. Return to the soup and bring to a simmer. Stir in kale, a handful at a time. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the kale is tender. Stir in the reserved chorizo and season with salt and pepper.

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Chocolate lovers eat brownies

2009-12-20T05:42:00.000-08:00

These brownies are tender and delicious with no added fat and no cholesterol. For a real treat, top them with raspberry jam or preserves.
1 cup whole-wheat pastry flour
1 cup sugar
1/3 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup Roma, Caffix, or Pero (optional)
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 12.3-ounce package Mori-Nu lite silken tofu (firm or extra firm)
1/2 cup fortified soymilk or rice milk
1-1/2 teaspoons cider vinegar
1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla
raspberry jam or preserves for serving (optional)
Preheat oven to 350oF.
Stir together the flour, sugar, cocoa, Roma (if using), baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
Pur�e the tofu in a food processor or blender until completely smooth, then blend in the non-dairy milk, vinegar, and vanilla.
Add the tofu mixture to the dry ingredients and stir just enough to mix. Spread into a nonstick or oil-sprayed 9- x 13-inch baking dish and bake until the top springs back when pressed lightly in the center, about 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

Food of the gods

2009-12-20T05:22:00.000-08:00

Most of us don't think of chocolate as a plant-based food, but it is. Chocolate is made from the seeds of the Theobroma cacao tree. These seeds, also known as cocoa beans, are exceptionally rich in flavonoids, which are natural antioxidants thought to help protect against cardiovascular disease.
Once harvested, cocoa beans are left to ferment before being dried, roasted, and processed into the chocolate products we know and love.
But not all chocolate is created equal. Processing destroys many of the natural flavonoids present in cocoa beans, and chocolate products that have been alkalized have been almost entirely depleted of their natural goodness.
It's really only dark chocolate, high in cocoa content, that seems to be of benefit. Not white chocolate. Not milk chocolate. Only rich, dark chocolate.
So what is it, exactly, that chocolate has to offer? Multiple studies suggest that eating small amounts of dark chocolate may protect cardiovascular health in the following ways:
Improved endothelial function: Several small-scale studies have shown that dark chocolate may help keep arteries elastic and blood free-flowing by improving the function of the endothelial cells that line blood vessels. One study of male smokers revealed that only 2 hours after eating a small piece of dark chocolate, participants experienced a significant improvement in endothelial function that lasted up to 8 hours.
Reduced blood pressure: In a recent study involving men and women with high blood pressure, those who ate 3 1/2 ounces of dark chocolate every day for 15 days experienced a drop in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Results were similar in another study of people who were between the ages of 55 and 64 and had hypertension. The study participants who supplemented their diets with a daily dose of dark chocolate for 2 weeks experienced a significant reduction in blood pressure. But after only 2 days without chocolate, their blood pressure readings returned to previous levels.
Improved cholesterol profile: Evidence suggests that eating a small amount of dark chocolate every day may increase "good" HDL cholesterol while decreasing "bad" LDL cholesterol.

Vegans and vegetarians fight cancer

2009-12-19T10:06:00.000-08:00

Remember what a drag it was when Mom used to nag at you to eat your veggies at dinner? She may have been saving your life. A study conducted in part by scientists at Oxford University’s Cancer Epidemiology Unit indicates that vegetarians develop some cancers, including bladder and stomach cancers and leukemia, up to 45% less than persons who eat red meat, that’s nearly half the risk!
The study was published in the British Journal of Cancer earlier this year.
According to the National Cancer Institute, limiting your fruit and vegetable intake actually puts you at risk of developing cancer. Consider fruits and vegetables to your body like income to your bank account. The more you eat, and fill up your body’s bank account, the more “stuff” you can do, like fight off diseases, maintain healthy vision and organ function, be athletic, travel, focus, learn.
Part of this risk in limiting your fruit and veggie intake lies in the fact that lower consumption probably goes hand in hand with higher fat consumption-in other words you trade in the banana for the burger. High fat diets are associated with increased risk for prostate, breast and colon cancers, less meat, better health and as has been recently documented, type2 diabetes

Quick and tasty Black Bean chile

2009-11-13T13:35:00.000-08:00

I found this recipe on the pcrm.com website and was so surprised and delighted at how easy it is to make. Its hard to go wrong with these simple ingredients.Where ever possible use organic products especially canned items that are BPA free

(serves 6 cups)
1/2 cup water
1 medium-sized onion, chopped
2 medium-sized cloves garlic, minced
1 small bell pepper, diced fine
1/2 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
2 15-ounce cans black beans, including liquid
1 4-ounce can diced chilies
1 teaspoon ground cumin
In a large skillet or pot, heat the water. Add onion, garlic, and pepper. Cook over high heat—stirring often—for about 5 minutes or until onion is translucent. Add remaining ingredients and simmer—stirring occasionally—for about 15 minutes or until flavors are blended.

Curried Sweet Potato Soup

2009-10-25T10:22:00.001-07:00

This was my first venture into ccoking this sweet culinary delight and it turned out perfectly. At least my neighbors and friends thought so. As a frequent visitor to the recipe of the week link on the www. pcrm.com website, I found a list of soups and stews that are simple and easy to make.
Having a working blender is crucial.

Curried Sweet Potato Soup
(Serves 6)

2 teaspoons olive oil
1 cup chopped onion
2 teaspoons curry powder
1 cup water
4 cups vegetable broth
5 cups cubed, peeled sweet potato
1 1/2 cups plain soy yogurt, divided
minced cilantro (optional)

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and curry powder and saute for 2 minutes. Add the water, broth, and sweet potatoes. Cook for 30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Place one-third of the sweet potato mixture in a blender and process until smooth. Repeat the procedure with the remaining sweet potato mixture in batches. Return the pureed mixture to the saucepan. Bring the soup to a boil and remove from heat. Stir in 1 cup of soy yogurt until blended. Top each serving with about 1 tablespoon of soy yogurt and garnish with cilantro, if desired.

So berry, berry good

2009-10-23T04:37:00.000-07:00

According to scientific documentation, diets rich in berries reduce, or even reverse, declining brain function.
Blueberries, in particular, have been shown to have the ability to improve memory and keep your brain “young.” They can also help you improve your balance and coordination. Berries are rich in antioxidants which protect your brain cells from oxidation and free radical damage. This means antioxidants may slow down brain aging and prevent disease, while promoting the growth of healthy brain cells. Berries are also some of the most colorful foods you can eat!
Try this smoothie for maximum brain function boost with organic mixed berries or with Berry Radical
1 cup frozen blueberries, blackberries and strawberries
1 cup frozen banana chunks
1-1/2-3 cups fortified vanilla soymilk or rice milk
1/4 cup apple juice concentrate

Forever vegan

2009-10-11T07:21:00.000-07:00

Now fully immersed in the vegan lifestyle I am always surprised and delighted to find rich, nutritious and tasty vegan morsels. Yesterday I found many delicious items at the DC Green Festival.
Sticky Fingers vegan bakery was there, Natural Zing the raw foodist supplier, along with the usual suspects like Numi tea, MOM's organic, Honest Tea, Pangea organics, and a plethora of companies from the hemp and organic body and health industries.
My favourite discovery however was Emmy's organics from Ithaca, N.Y., who makes amazing, gluten free vegan foods from chocolate and candy, dark chocolate truffles to macaroons and granola cereal.
http://emmysorganics.com
Personally I found their vegan, gluten-free, raw granola made with buckwheat, raw dates, almonds, organic raw agave and flax seed, cinnamon, vanilla bean and himalaya crystal salt to be da bomb. The lemon-ginger and chocolate-orange macaroons was a huge hit as well.
I've become a huge fan of Emmys and hope they strive and thrive as the vegan lifestyle grows and becomes even more mainstream.

Detox, dont botox

2009-09-29T10:40:00.000-07:00

As it is now, one out of every two of us will get cancer or heart disease and die from it - an ugly and painful death as anyone who has witnessed it can attest. And starting in the year 2000, one out of every three children who are born after that year will develop diabetes--a disease that for most sufferers (those with Type 2 diabetes) is largely preventable with lifestyle changes. This is a rapidly emerging crisis, the seriousness of which I'm not sure we have yet recognized. The good news is, the means to prevent and heal disease seems to be right in front of us; it's in our food. Quite frankly, our food choices can either kill us - which mounting studies say that they are, or they can lift us right out of the disease process and into soaring health.—Kathy Freston, author, health and wellness expert.
The anti-aging properties of vegetables and fruits have been well documented. In addition, plants give a chlorophyll-boost to the digestive tract which in turn rids the body of harmful environmental toxins from smog, heavy metals, herbicides, cleaning products and pesticides, giving aid to the liver in detoxification and freeing the body of free radicals, a major precursor to premature aging of the body.
Best foods for detoxifying

An Epidemic of Obese 6 Month Old Babies

2009-09-29T09:45:00.000-07:00

Evidence has been steadily accumulating that certain hormone-mimicking pollutants, ubiquitous in the food chain, have two previously unsuspected effects. They act on genes in the developing fetus and newborn to turn more precursor cells into fat cells, which stay with you for life. And they may alter metabolic rate, so that the body hoards calories rather than burning them, like a physiological Scrooge. "The evidence now emerging says that being overweight is not just the result of personal choices about what you eat, combined with inactivity," says Retha Newbold of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) in North Carolina, part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). "Exposure to environmental chemicals during development may be contributing to the obesity epidemic." They are not the cause of extra pounds in every person who is overweight—for older adults, who were less likely to be exposed to so many of the compounds before birth, the standard explanations of genetics and lifestyle probably suffice—but environmental chemicals may well account for a good part of the current epidemic, especially in those under 50. And at the individual level, exposure to the compounds during a critical period of development may explain one of the most frustrating aspects of weight gain: you eat no more than your slim friends, and exercise no less, yet are still unable to shed pounds.
Read full article here

More bad news for chicken eaters

2009-09-26T13:21:00.000-07:00

A national physicians group is suing Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) under California law for failing to warn consumers that the chain’s new grilled chicken product contains a dangerous carcinogen.

Independent laboratory tests show that KFC’s grilled chicken contains PhIP, a chemical that can increase a person’s risk of developing cancer even if consumed in small amounts. The lawsuit was filed Sept. 23 in the Superior Court of the State of California, County of San Francisco.
see fast food suits

“Grilled chicken can increase the risk of cancer, and KFC consumers deserve to know that this supposedly healthy product is actually just as bad for them as high-fat fried chicken,” says Neal D. Barnard, M.D., the president of Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM). “KFC should post warnings because its aggressively marketed new product harbors a chemical that increases the risk of breast cancer, prostate cancer, and other forms of this lethal disease.”

A PCRM scientist visited six different KFC stores, obtained two samples from each location, and sent them to an independent testing laboratory. All 12 samples were found to contain PhIP, a chemical classified as a carcinogen by the federal government, the state of California, and the International Agency for Research on Cancer. PhIP, part of a chemical family known as heterocyclic amines (HCAs), has been linked to several forms of cancer, including breast cancer, in numerous scientific studies. No safe level of ingestion has been identified. Every sample also tested positive for at least one additional type of HCA.

KFC is clearly in violation of California’s public health law, known as Proposition 65. “In order to adequately comply with the requirements of Proposition 65, Defendant must conspicuously post specific warnings with respect to the carcinogenic dangers of the grilled chicken that it offers for sale,” says PCRM in its complaint. PCRM has already sued McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A, and five other national restaurant chains that sell grilled chicken containing PhIP.

Dont 'eat that'!

2009-09-22T07:31:00.000-07:00

While Im often pleased to find worthwhile advice on nutrition and other health issues in Men's Health magazine, every so often I find a point of contention in their sometimes corporate mind set in regards to the foods they recommend. Eat this, Not That
For example, the now ubiquitous 'Eat This Not That' concept that started out as quick reads in the pages of the magazine has now spawned into seperate book publications. The marketing gurus over at MH notwithstanding, there seems to be more emphasis on commercial success than on nutritional concerns.
One can only surmise that the profits reaped from the magazines advertising pages has fostered an attitude whereby processed and fast foods are somehow given a pass because god forbid they alienate any advertiser all in the name of the all mighty dollar.
To recommend to the public that it is better to eat a frittata with 20 grams of fat, 2 less than a scone from Starbucks or, a sugar doughnut that has 12g of fat, 2 less than a Krispy Creme doughnut seems irresponsible at best to me.

As Weight Increases, Brain Size Decreases

2009-09-21T16:28:00.000-07:00

According to Paul Thompson, lead author of a study appearing online in Human Brain Mapping and a neuroscientist at UCLA, the brains of obese participants appeared 16 years older than those who were in the normal weight group, while the brains of overweight participants appeared 8 years older.
The sections of the brain found to sustain majority of the tissue loss were the frontal and temporal lobe regions, the center of decision making and memory, among other essential functions.
The researchers said that the findings of this study could carry grave implications for the aging process, overweight or obese people, as well as an increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease.http://healthmadeeasy.com
"We're all trying to protect our bodies and our brains from aging and this is just one factor that's accelerating that on top of all the other factors such as pollution, smoking, alcohol," said Paul Sanberg, renowned professor of neurosurgery and director of the University of South Florida Center for Aging and Brain Repair in Tampa. He further said that all of us experience loss of some tissues as we grow older and that the researchers are saying that this process is being sped up.
According to data from the U.S. National Center for Health Statistics, 30 percent of American adults who are at least 20 years of age -- up to over 60 million people -- are presently suffering from obesity, while another 36 percent satisfy the criteria of being overweight. Whether you are obese or overweight, your risk for conditions including type 2 diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and even cognitive problems, is at a higher level.

Brocolli: More Than a Super food

2009-09-21T13:21:00.000-07:00

Science doesn't lie and is steadily convincing us of truths that we long suspected. Vegetables and fruits and other natural plant based foods have not only all the nutrients our mind and bodies need but it fuels our immune system in fighting off cell destructive free radicals. One of those vegetables in the superfood category is broccoli. What more can be said about this vegetable?.
See more great info here http://organicjar.com/2009/2001/
Like other cruciferous vegetables, it contains phytochemicals that have a unique ability to modify human hormones, detoxify compounds, and prevent toxic compounds from binding to human DNA, preventing toxins from causing DNA damage that could lead to cancer. Studies have even shown that genetic defects that may lead to cancer are suppressed by the consumption of green cruciferous vegetables. http://www.diseaseproof.com/archives/cancer-cancer-alert-your-best-defense-go-cruciferous.html
Scientists have once again made headlines by showing that broccoli can provide some people with a measure of protection from prostate cancer, but their real triumph is a new approach to accessing the health benefits of foodstuffs.
In the July 2 issue of PLoS ONE, Maria Traka, Richard Mithen, of the Institute of Food Research in Norwich, England, explained that men who have a gene called GSTM1 react well to cruciferous vegetables.
Instead of picking through the medical records of people who eat broccoli, some others that don’t, and then crunching some numbers, the researchers performed sophisticated genetic tests upon a group of volunteers — some of whom were on a very high broccoli diet.

Using microarrays, chips that can make thousands of measurements at once, the team compared biopsy tissue from the prostates of pea-fed and broccoli-fed volunteers.
In the cells of floret-fed men who happen to have the GSTM1 gene, dozens of mRNA molecules were perturbed. Since many of those molecular messages are associated with cancer-causing signals, affecting them is a very good thing.
This news may send men with an elevated risk of prostate cancer to the salad bar, but it should also drive scientists toward more modern techniques, raising the bar for dietary research. We are inundated with news stories that proclaim, "Food X may prevent disease Y," and many of them could be balderdash. But everyone should take note of reports that are as rigorous as this one. They can really separate the wheat from … the broccoli.

Not Milk?

2009-09-20T16:30:00.000-07:00

Many Americans, including some vegetarians, still consume substantial amounts of dairy products—and government policies still promote them—despite scientific evidence that questions their health benefits and indicates their potential health risks.
Osteoporosis
Milk’s main selling point is calcium, and milk-drinking is touted for building strong bones in children and preventing osteoporosis in older persons. However, clinical research shows that dairy products have little or no benefit for bones. A 2005 review published in Pediatrics showed that milk consumption does not improve bone integrity in children. Similarly, the Harvard Nurses’ Health Study,which followed more than 72,000 women for 18 years, showed no protective effect of increased milk consumption on fracture risk. While calcium is important for bone health, studies show that increasing consumption beyond approximately 600 mg per day—amounts that are easily achieved without dairy products or calcium supplements—does not improve bone integrity.
In studies of children and adults, exercise has been found to have a positive effect on bone density.

You can decrease your risk of osteoporosis by reducing sodium and animal protein intake in the diet,exercising, and ensuring adequate calcium intake from plant foods such as kale, broccoli, and other leafy green vegetables and beans. You can also use calcium-fortified products such as breakfast cereals and juices, although these products provide more concentrated calcium than is necessary. increasing intake of fruits and vegetables,
Fat Content and Cardiovascular Disease
Dairy products—including cheese, ice cream, milk, butter, and yogurt—contribute significant amounts of cholesterol and saturated fat to the diet. Diets high in fat and saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease, among other serious health problems. A low-fat vegetarian diet that eliminates dairy products, in combination with exercise, smoking cessation, and stress management, can not only prevent heart disease, but may also reverse it. Non-fat dairy products are available; however, they pose other health risks as noted below.
Cancer
Prostate and breast cancers have been linked to consumption of dairy products, presumably related to increases in a compound called insulin-like growth factor (IGF-I).IGF-I is found in cow’s milk and has been shown to occur in increased levels in the blood of individuals consuming dairy products on a
regular basis.Other nutrients that increase IGF-I are also found in cow’s milk.Case-control studies in diverse populations have shown a strong and consistent association between serum IGF-I concentrations and prostate cancer risk. One study showed that men who had the highest levels of IGF-I had more than four times the risk of prostate cancer compared with those who had the lowest levels. Other findings show that prostate cancer risk was elevated with increased consumption of low-fat milk, suggesting that too much dairy calcium could be a potential threat to prostate health.
Ovarian cancer may also be related to the consumption of dairy products. The milk sugar lactose is broken down in the body into another sugar, galactose. Research suggests that the dairy sugar galactose might be toxic to ovarian cells. In a study conducted in Sweden, consumption of lactose and dairy products was positively linked to ovarian cancer.A similar study, the Iowa Women’s Health Study, found that women who consumed more than one glass of milk per day had a 73 percent greater chance of ovarian cancer than women who drank less than one glass per day.

How the food industry promotes obesity

2009-09-18T11:09:00.000-07:00

The belief that food will make us feel better contributes to our desire for food.

When we expect food to give us pleasure (positive reinforcement) or relief from distress (negative reinforcement), that expectation amplifies the award value. Expecting something to be rewarding stimulates pursuit of that award.

By encouraging us to consider any occasion to eat as an opportunity for pleasure and reward, the industry invites us to indulge a lot more often. That theme populates food industry marketing reports and conferences that drive new food products and services.

Food scientists have discovered what's called a "bliss point" — the point at which consumers get the greatest pleasure from combinations of sugar, fat, and salt.

When the mix of these three elements is just right, food becomes more stimulating. Eating foods high in sugar, fat, and salt makes us eat more foods high in sugar, fat, and salt.
New research published in the British Medical Journal is revealing a game plan that can be used to fight the health-destroying efforts of the food i
ndustry. Lessons learned from the fight with Big Tobacco can be applied to fighting the food industry.
These results indicate there's a great deal of similarity between the food companies that market unhealthful foods and Big Tobacco. Both industries rely in misinformation, burying negative data, and confusing the public with conflicting evidence. And just as Big Tobacco has long insisted that nicotine is not addictive and there is nothing unhealthful about smoking cigarettes, the food industry and soft drink companies continue to insist there is no such thing as an unhealthy food. They say that any food, no matter what ingredients are in it, can be part of a healthful diet. They also tend to blame lack of exercise, rather than their foods, for causing obesity.

The position of the U.S. food industry is, of course, nothing short of outlandish. To suggest that there's no such thing as an unhealthy food strains the credibility of logic and common sense. Clearly, there are some foods that promote obesity, diabetes, cancer, and other chronic diseases. At the same time, there are other foods that even prevent those diseases.
Essentially, this can be understood by looking at the ingredients that are in the foods. It is the ingredients themselves that give the healthful or health-destroying characteristics to food and beverage products. For example, any food made with high-fructose corn syrup is likely to promote diabetes or obesity. Likewise, any food made with refined white flour will also promote diabetes and obesity. In a similar way, foods made with ingredients that cause cancer, such as sodium nitrite or saccharin, will of course result in cancer if a person consumes them in large enough quantities and with enough frequency.
Many of these ingredients, are, in effect, slow-acting poisons, and it appears to be the position of the food and beverage industry that poisons really aren't poisonous. Apparently, in their view, you could put any ingredient into a food or beverage, and it would have absolutely no effect on a person's health. In other words, the food industry is trying to destroy the cause-effect relationship between the foods and beverages a person consumes and the level of health they subsequently exhibit.

The Silent Killer

2009-09-16T08:33:00.000-07:00

Despite the nation's love (or perhaps lust) affair with processed food, we are all aware of the 'dangers' that accompany it. But can processed food really be considered a 'silent assassin'?
Processed food can be defined as food that has been altered from its natural state in order to increase shelf-life, for example. The methods used include canning, freezing, refrigeration, dehydration and aseptic processing. Whereas some processed food such as frozen vegetables and milk can be considered 'safe' or even healthy processed food, the processing methods can create some pretty unhealthy stuff. It is argued, among the anti-processed food mob, that foods such as canned food (containing lots of sodium), high-calorie snacks (like fries and cheese-based snacks) and sugary breakfast cereal can contribute to high-blood pressure and heart disease.

Processed meats are among the worst of these food sorts, and eating them can apparently increase your chances of colo-rectal, kidney and stomach cancer. Meats found in fast food burgers and hot dogs tend to be the most highly processed of all foods. According to Steven Gortmaker, professor of society, human development, and health at the Harvard School of Public Health, data from 2005 shows that every day, seven percent of the US population visits a McDonald's, and 20-25 percent eat fast food of some kind.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) processed foods are to blame for the sharp increase in obesity cases (and chronic disease) seen in the US and across the globe. Also, according to associate professor of pediatrics at Harvard David Ludwig, processed food is also responsible for the increase in diabetes among Americans.
It is without doubt that processed food, when eaten to excess, is harmful and may even contribute to things like heart disease. And it is also true that fast food restaurants are a huge contributor to the nation's, and indeed the world's, processed food in take. However, this is when consumed in excess. If people are irresponsible enough to eat a hot dog three times a day, or go to the drive-through every time they're peckish, then of course they will cause grave damage to their health. However, food alone cannot be an 'assassin'. Far too many people could be accused of 'self-assassination', as they refuse to consume processed stuffs in moderation.

For the Sake of the Children

2009-09-14T05:57:00.000-07:00

The health and well being of our children is important to our communities, our country and globally as well. Kids today are more exposed to air borne diseases, chemicals, nutritionless fast food than the past generation of Baby Boomers and Gen-Xers ever were. As a result we see the growing trends of obesity, early-onset diabetes among twelve and thirteen year olds, along with hypertension, and other chronic diseases. We must reverse this trend or the consequences will be devastating.
Its encumbent upon parents to play a more active role in providing a healthy, nutritious diet for their kids. Schools should offer more healthy low-fat, cholesterol-free options, including reimbursable meals and beverages, a la carte items, and vending machine items.
Contact your elcted officials about the Child Nutrition Act & Farm to School program.

Health Concerns of Infants and Children
Milk proteins, milk sugar, fat, and saturated fat in dairy products pose health risks for children and encourage the development of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants below one year of age not be given whole cow’s milk as iron deficiency is more likely on a dairy-rich diet. Cow’s milk products are very low in iron.If dairy products become a major part of one’s diet, iron deficiency is more likely. Colic is an additional concern with milk consumption. Up to 28 percent of infants suffer from colic during the first month of life.Pediatricians learned long ago that cow’s milk was often the reason. We now know that breastfeeding mothers can have colicky babies if the mothers consume cow’s milk. The cow’s antibodies can pass through the mother’s bloodstream, into her breast milk, and to the baby. Additionally, food allergies appear to be common results of cow’s milk consumption, particularly in children. Cow’s milk consumption has also been linked to chronic constipation in children. Researchers suggested that milk consumption resulted in perianal sores and severe pain on defecation, leading to constipation.
Milk and dairy products are not necessary in the diet and can, in fact, be harmful to health. It is best to consume a healthful diet of grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and fortified foods including cereals and juices. These nutrient-dense foods can help you meet your calcium, potassium, riboflavin, and vitamin D requirements with ease—and without health risks.

Start the day healthy, stay strong all day

2009-09-08T10:15:00.000-07:00

A hearty breakfast ought to be, as the cliché goes, the most important meal of the day. Studies show that people who take time for a morning meal consume fewer calories over the course of the day, have stronger cognitive skills, and are 30 percent less likely to be overweight or obese. Beyond that, people who skip breakfast are more likely to drink alcohol and smoke, and they’re less likely to exercise. Your morning meal in other words is like the foundation of your house,— everything else rests on it.
But when food marketers get their hands on it, “a hearty breakfast” turns into something more like “a heart-unhealthy breakfast.” Because an unhealthy heart is exactly what many of the country’s most popular breakfast joints are setting you up for, by peddling fatty scrambles, misguided muffin missiles, and pancakes that look like manhole covers. These foods are loaded with unhealthy fats, added sugars, and refined carbohydrates, which catapult your blood sugar, sap your energy levels, and tell your body to store fat. Start your day this way and you’ll be ready for a second breakfast—and a nap—before 11 a.m. To help you avoid the morning mishaps, we searched out the good, the bad, and the greasy and uncovered some of the best and worst breakfast foods in America.

Be mindful of chemicals in your skin and body care

2009-09-06T09:04:00.000-07:00

A new follow-up study was released that assesses levels of the petrochemical carcinogen 1,4-dioxane in leading conventional as well as “natural” and “organic” brands of personal care and household cleaning products. The results indicate significant improvement for 23 products from sixteen major brands that had formerly been found to contain potentially dangerous levels of the contaminant 1,4-dioxane in a similar study held in March of 2008.
But new study indicates some products mislabeled as “natural” should have cancer warning.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cORBjYyJlrA&feature=player_embedded#t=74

Scented beautification

2009-08-29T07:21:00.000-07:00

Miessence® is excited to bring you this beautiful selection of 25 certified organic essential oils. Available individually, the essential oils collection also comes as a set in its own sustainably harvested, hand-crafted, plantation pine storage chest.
Here are the internationally certified organic essential oils on offer:
Bergamot, Cedarwood, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Geranium, Helichrysum, Jasmine, Lavender, Lemon, Lime, Myrrh, Mandarin, Neroli, Orange (sweet), Oregano, Patchouli, Peppermint, Rose, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Spearmint, Tea Tree and Ylang Ylang.
Coming from Australia and as far afield as Italy, Somalia, Corsica, Egypt and beyond, these certified organic essential oils, handpicked by Narelle Chenery, Director of Product Development, for this unique miessence® collection, are the purest available and contain no toxic residues or pesticides.
'We have also chosen our sources very carefully,' Narelle explains. 'This is to ensure that the grower to-user-line is absolutely unsullied.'

Brain matters

2009-08-26T05:17:00.000-07:00

We have had so many dire warnings of the negative impacts of eating a fast food diet, drinking sodas, the liquid candy and eating highly processed foods. We have seen the documentaries like 'Food Inc' and the food industry's cruel workings, and yet the obesity epidemic goes on unabated.
Now new research shows that obesity contributes to significant brain loss.
Maybe as result of these new findings, this epidemic can be seen for what it is. A national health crisis.

Something fishy is afoot

2009-08-20T10:43:00.000-07:00

The increasing use of our waterways as a dumping ground by power plants and the mining industries has created high concentrations of mercury in edible fish sources. Mercury pollution has become so widespread that as many as 300 streams nationwide are contaminated.
Mercury consumption can damage the nervous system and cause learning disabilities in developing fetuses and young children. The main source of mercury to most of the streams tested, according to the researchers are emissions from coal-fired power plants. The mercury released from smokestacks here and abroad rains down into waterways, where natural processes convert it into methylmercury – a form that allows the toxin to wind its way up the food chain into fish.

Organic not just in name only

2009-08-19T08:56:00.000-07:00

Mothers pass toxic chemicals to their babies through their umbilical cords, according to a groundbreaking study. The recent study commissioned by Washington-based Environmental Working Group found an average 200 industrial chemicals and pollutants (body load) in umbilical cord blood from 10 babies born in U.S. hospitals.
Exposure to chemicals is a huge concern with infants. Because the blood-brain barrier - the body’s defense that keeps contaminants from reaching the central nervous system - is not yet developed, babies can suffer more neurological harm.
And of course, female babies are born with the eggs that could become their own babies, meaning later generations will also be exposed.
Making your home environment as clean and green as you can is a great way to help reverse this damaging trend.
Begin with baby as you intend to go on – by using only the purest organic products such as those from the miessence® certified organic Mother & Baby Range.
Free from chemicals and synthetics, miessence® Baby Cream Wash, Lotion and Baby Powder are pure and delicate enough to be used confidently on newborns.
Similarly, Organic Baby Bottom Cleansing Gel, Bottom Mist and Barrier Balm work together to gently clean and soothe the nappy area to keep it ..well.. ‘smooth as a baby’s bottom’.
To see other beautiful certified organic baby and mothercare products, talk to visit your ONEgroup representative’s or check his/her website here.

Live a healthier life knowing about the dirty dozen

2009-08-16T05:57:00.000-07:00

Recently I wrote about the dangers of chemicals, growth hormones and pesticides especially in regards to the environment and our children.
As promised I have included here a list of a dozen or so fruits and vegetables contaminated by these known carcinogens that as concerned citizens and parents we should be aware of.

Russian roulette

2009-08-13T12:39:00.000-07:00

I cringe when I think of the unseen dangers that are present in our everyday food sources. The pesticides, herbicides and growth hormones for starters are of a particular health concern for children of all ages. Their immune systems are especially vulnerable at a young age.
The average American child gets 5+ servings of pesticides residues in their food and water each day. 888 million pounds of pesticides are used every year that breaks down to an average of 3lbs for every person.
Fruits and vegetables should be washed thoroughly and especially those that wear a thin skin like apples, peaches, strawberries, grapes and berries, just to name a few.
The public needs a to be informed about the many toxic chemicals that are now so pervasive in our food supply. I believe it to be a national crisis. In the near future I will try to outline the use of chemicals and other toxic elements in 'foods' and it's correlaton to heart disease, diabetes and the growing cancer rates in today's society.

Summer Rayne reviews miessence

2009-07-27T11:30:00.000-07:00

A new book by Summer Rayne Oakes – the Savvy Shopping Guide to Sustainable Fashion & Beauty features reviews of Miessence products and a double page spread on ‘Narelle Chenery – the Mother of Ecobeauty’ and the creator of Miessence and Mivitality organic products.

Bottled water: A health hazard

2009-07-27T11:18:00.000-07:00

The most potent antioxidant superfood today

2009-07-14T12:25:00.000-07:00

A potent combination of 10 of the world's most potent, antioxidant superfoods. Contains certified organic, antioxidant-rich raw cacao, fruits, berries and marine microalgae to support healthy immune function and protect cells. As well as a wide spectrum of nature's most powerful antioxidants: hydroxytyrosol, zeaxanthin, alpha and beta carotene, lutein, lycopene, anthocyanin, cryptoxanthin, xanthophyll, epicatechin, quercitin, punicalagins and ellagic, chlorogenic, gallic, ferulic and caffeic acids from organically grown coffee, berries and fruits.