Steps Families Can Take to Living Green

Author: Britt Michaelian

I do not consider myself to be a huge environmentalist but, I am proud to say that I saved my allowance to join Greenpeace in the 80s. As an adult, I now realize the importance of having an awareness about our impact on the earth and sharing this with our children.

We may not be able to save our planet from every black cloud, but it is important to be responsible and respectful to the earth on a daily basis.

There are simple steps that we can all take to help live in a more green, earth friendly way. We do not have to change our lives drastically and with a few adjustments, nothing will seem to be different (for the exception of the land fills not being as full, our energy and water bills not being quite as high, and our knowing that we are doing our part in living a conscious and environmentally friendly way).

The following is a list of simple steps that families can take to living green. It is not a complete list, but a starting point. The important thing here is that parents and caregivers discuss these steps and ENFORCE them. If parents teach children to live green at an early age, children will naturally respect the earth.

I know there are many more things we can do, so I encourage you to please send us your great tips too! The earth thanks you and so do we!

Steps to Living Green:

1. Turn off the lights and the TV when you are not in the room. Better yet, turn the TV off all together and grab a book!

2. Get energy efficient appliances. This will help save on your electric bills as well as helping the environment!

3. Change out all of your old incandescent light bulbs with the new energy efficient florescent bulbs. They not only save you money, but time- you do not need to replace them as often and there is less waste from needing fewer bulbs!

4. There is one thing that is better than these new energy saving light bulbs and that is natural light. If it is light out, open the shades and catch some rays! Natural sun light helps with seasonal depression and vitamin D!

5. Recycle all of your plastic and glass bottles and aluminum cans. We have been hearing this for years, so do it! Every little bit counts.

6. Get a water purifying filtration system, or just a container with a filter like a Britta and STOP using those plastic water bottles! .

7. Buy a kitchen timer and put it next to each shower in your home. Take the 4 minute shower. One minute for shampoo, one for soap, one for conditioner and one to rinse. Shave with the water off in between soaping and rinsing. This is HUGE in helping with water consumption, especially if you have more than one child taking showers. Better yet, take showers with more than one person at a time and still keep it to minutes! Make it a game!

8. Turn the water off while brushing teeth and while washing hands. After a quick initial rinse, turn the water off during lather and turn on again for a thorough rinse to finish up. For extra dirty hands, use a washcloth to remove dirt, not running water!

9. Recycle toilet paper and towel rolls. Better yet, if your kids are in preschool or grade school, save up the rolls and give them to the school. Kids can always make great art or science projects using paper towel and toilet paper rolls!

10. Fix leaky faucets as soon as the start to leak. Do not procrastinate on this kind of stuff. It not only costs you money, but wastes way more water than you realize.

11. Switch your household cleaners, dish soaps and hand soaps to environmentally friendly ones. The chemicals in bleaches and harsh chemicals are not only bad for earth, they are bad for you! Think cancer and fertility issues, not that much fun.

12. Every time that you go to the store to stock up on supplies for the house or office, look for recycled or green products. This way, you will know you are at least trying to be green!

13. Organic is the way to go. Buy from local farmers if you can and buy most, if not all of your produce from the organic section. Again, this not only benefits the earth, but your body does not need all of those pesticides and chemicals- more cancer and infertility, yuck!

14. Even shampoos and cosmetics companies are starting to go green. And these products are actually good! Give them a try!

15. Be open to trying new things that are green. The more open you are, the sooner you will find out that this whole green movement is kind of fun and definitely makes you feel like you are being responsible! What could feel better than that?

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/environment-articles/steps-families-can-take-living-green-379071.html

About the Author:
Britt Michaelian, MA is the founder and CEO of Responsible Family Company. Her DVD, Care for Kids: The Essential Guide to Preparing Caregivers educates caregivers about medical emergencies. Sign up for her newsletter to receive a free Child Safety Report at http://www.responsiblefamily.com

Facts About Global Warming You Should Know

Author: Nathalie Fiset

Global warming is not a 20th century phenomenon. It has, in fact, occurred in the past more than once, along with periods of extreme cold known as the ice ages. With so much written and reported about global warming, sometimes it's difficult to detect which is fact and which is just part of scientific scare tactics. Here are some facts about global warming that might help:

What exactly is global warming?

Global warming is basically the increase in the temperatures of the Earth's atmosphere, land masses and oceans. The Earth's surface temperature is at an average of 59F and over the last hundred years, this figure has risen to about 1F. By the year 2100, the average change in the temperature of the Earth could range from 2.5F to about 10F, enough to melt glaciers and polar ice caps.

The cause of global warming

Global warming has and will always occur naturally. Why it has become such a concern in our lifetime is due to the fact that human activities and practices have contributed significantly to its occurrence and severity. With the advent of industrialization and careless environmental practices, we have caused the increase in the average global temperatures by contributing negatively to the greenhouse effect.

This began about 240 years ago, when the Industrial Revolution was born. As more and more fossil fuels in the form of oil were mined and burned, gases as the by-product of that process began to be released in the atmosphere. Currently, it is estimated that 75% of the increase in the carbon dioxide content of the Earth's atmosphere is caused by the burning of these fossil fuels.

Global warming and the greenhouse effect

Global warming is related to changes in the Earth's greenhouse effect. Gases naturally occur in the Earth's atmosphere and act both to protect and retain heat. These gases include carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and water vapor. Of these, water vapor is the most dominant and abundant greenhouse gas.

Global warming and the greenhouse effect are not the same thing. The greenhouse effect refers to a natural process that occurs in the Earth's atmosphere. If this process is disrupted, then it could contribute to global warming.

As the sun's rays hit the Earth, heat is bounced back to the atmosphere where these gases contain the heat and keep it there to warm the planet. This is an important natural process and allows life forms to flourish and survive. Problems only occur when these gases multiply and build-up, containing heat too efficiently and thus warming the Earth's atmosphere.

As the Earth's average temperature rises, effects in its landmasses and sea water level become apparent. Polar ice caps melt along with glaciers, contributing to higher and warmer sea levels. By the end of the century, it is estimated that sea levels can increase from 4 inches to a high of about 40 inches if global warming continues unabated.

Global warming can also affect the behavior of the winds and can also contribute to a harsher and drier climate, with frequent visitings of strong hurricanes. Water from heavier rainfall will not stay long to irrigate the land, however because with a warmer climate, water on the Earth's surface will evaporate quickly. This has a significant effect on agricultural practices not only in the US but also for the rest of the world.

Another phenomenon that is equated with global warming is the El Nino. The El Nino phenomenon has occurred for possibly thousands of years and is not caused directly by global warming. However, changes in the average temperature of the planet can contribute to its severity and frequency.

The other human practices that contribute to global warming

The agricultural revolution has also contributed to global warming. As more and more communities need lands converted from forests to residential and commercial areas, biomass is reduced, contributing to the increase in the presence of carbon dioxide in those regions. Since carbon dioxide is processed by plants and trees, their absence contributes to its increase.

It is estimated that about 25% of the annual increase in the carbon dioxide found in the Earth's atmosphere is caused by extreme changes and usage of the Earth's natural resources. Other practices also include deforestation, salinization, desertification and overgrazing also contribute to global warming. However, many scientists surmise and agree that the contribution is slight and indirect.

Facing the facts of global warming

Countries all over the world have just begun to acknowledge the negative effects of global warming not only to the world's politics and economy but also to humankind in general. Many of the world's governments have encouraged implementation of measures to try to counteract the problem of global warming through careful measures and practices designed to protect and respect the environment.

How these measures will fare and contribute to the long-term maintenance of our planet, though, remains to be seen.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/environment-articles/facts-about-global-warming-you-should-know-131079.html

About the Author:
For more information now go to: http://www.solutionstoearthdestruction.com
http://www.stopearthdestruction.com/index.html

Soft Drinks-The Drinks of Champions?

Author: Craig Burton

One of the most heavily promoted and "coolest" products around are soft drinks. Millions are spent on superstars advertising coke, pepsi and the like. We know they are not healthy but how damaging is that innocent - and many would say satisfying - can of coke to our health?

In the following article I will outline:

1. The current soft drink epidemic

2. The ingredients

3. The physical cost from soft drink ingredients

1. The current soft drink epidemic

In the U.K. in 2004 nearly 14 billion litres of soft drink were consumed. The 2004 total soft drinks figure represents an increase of 47% over the past ten years. (1)

In Australia soft drink consumption increased by over 30% in the 10 years to 1999. 50% of 16-18 year olds consumed soft drinks every day. (2)

These popular beverages account for more than a quarter of all drinks consumed in the United States. More than 56.9 billion liters were sold in 2000 - that works out to at least one can per day for every man, woman and child. Soft drink consumption among children and adolescents rose 41% between 1989-1991 and 1994-1995, mostly displacing milk and juice, the leading sources of many vitamins and minerals in the American diet. (3)

2. The ingredients

One can of soft drink has about:
• 10-13 teaspoons of sugar
• 30 to 55 mg of caffeine
• And additionally it is loaded with artificial food colors and sulphites

3. Physical costs from soft drink ingredients

• Sugar: Soft drink manufacturers are the largest single user of refined sugar in the United States. It is a proven fact that sugar increases insulin levels, which can lead to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, premature aging and numerous other negative side effects including associated tooth disease problems.

• Caffeine: Caffeinated drinks cause many nervous system reactions including the jitters and insomnia. High caffeine use is associated with high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, elevated blood cholesterol levels, vitamin and mineral depletion that potentially leads to disease.

• Aspartame: This chemical is used as a sugar substitute in diet soda. There are over 92 different health side effects associated with aspartame consumption including brain tumors, birth defects, diabetes, emotional disorders and epilepsy/seizures. Further, when aspartame is stored for long periods of time or kept in warm areas it changes to methanol, an alcohol that converts to formaldehyde and formic acid, which are known carcinogens. Please see February and March Peak Performance editions to read more on this deadly product.

• Phosphoric Acid: May interfere with the body's ability to use calcium, which can lead to osteoporosis or softening of the teeth and bones. Phosphoric acid also neutralizes the hydrochloric acid in your stomach, which can interfere with digestion, making it difficult to utilize nutrients. (4)

• Benzene: Recent random government testing of soft drinks found five of them contaminated with levels of benzene (which is a cancer-causing chemical linked to leukemia) that exceeded federal standards set for benzene in drinking water. Benzene is able to form in beverages that contain vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and the preservatives sodium benzoate or potassium benzoate. Exposure to heat and light can trigger the formation. (5)

Looking at the consumption statistics and related health consequences I have no doubt soft drinks are one of the main reasons from a nutritionally perspective why many people suffer health problems. Aside from the negative effects of the soda itself, drinking a lot of it is likely to leave you with little appetite for whole foods that your body needs to function at its best.

Your 3d Coach
Craig Burton
References
(1) http://www.researchandmarkets.com/ reportinfo.asp? report_id=302947.
(2) http://www.nutritionaustralia.com.au/SNAC/ soft-drink-final-paper.pdf
(3) Squires, S, The Amazing Statistics and Dangers of Soda Pop, 2001 http://www.mercola.com/2001/mar/10/ soda_pop_dangers.htm
(4) Mercola, J, The Real Dangers of Soda to You and Your Children, mercola.com, 2003 http://www.mercola.com/2003/jul/9/soda_dangers.htm
(5) Soft Drinks: Disease in a can, bloomberg.com, May 20, 2006

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/soft-drinks-the-drinks-of-champions-195102.html

About the Author:
Article by Craig Burton. Craig is a prominent European based holistic health and fitness coach and founder of 3D Personal Training Systems. Craig is a Sports Science graduate with postgraduate accreditations in nutrition, massage, athletic training, and corrective exercise therapy.

He is the author of "The 21 Day Roadmap to Health" available at http://www.21dayroadmap.com.

Receive your FREE 3d pts tools including the 7 Part Series: Success Strategies for transforming the body, mind and spirit, our FREE monthly Peak Performance Newsletter and our FREE questionnaire to find out more about your current health status at http://www.3dpts.com/freetools.

For more information and articles on health and fitness visit http://www.3dpts.com/articles.

Eating Non-Organic Beef: Hormone Connection

I just read "The Hormone Connection-Revolutionary Discoveries Linking Hormones & Women's Health Problems", a book by Gale Maleskey and according to Carlos Sonnenschein, M.D., professor in the department of Anatomy and Cellular Biology at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, "eating hormone-treated beef may be one reason why girls in the U.S. reach puberty earlier than in the past.

In the mid 19th century, the average girl began to menstruate at 15-years old. Today, girls' 1st period arrives 2-3 years earlier."
Dr. Sonnenschein also believes that by increasing their lifetime exposure to estrogen, eating hormone-treated beef may increase girls' future risk of breast cancer.

This is a great book chocked full of information. A must-read for every family!

Xylitol Epic Gum & Mints: NO Aspartame & Sugar-Free

Whew! I found a sugar-free gum and mints that have NO aspartame in them. Instead they are sweetened with 100% Xylitol, which is a "healthy alternative to sugar".

As a frequent gum chewer, I'm thrilled that I don't have to give up my gum chewing days. Instead, I will replace my conventional aspartame filled junk with Epic Gum. This gum is kid friendly too.

Xylitol has benefits!
http://www.epicdental.com/t-learn-about-xylitol.aspx

How is Epic kid friendly?
http://www.epicdental.com/t-improve-kids-hygiene-habits.aspx

Learn more about Epic
http://www.epicdental.com

What are the dangers of aspartame?
http://www.sweetpoison.com/aspartame-information.html

Source:
http://safety.lovetoknow.com/Dangers_in_Aspartame
According to numerous reports, 75 percent or more of food reactions reported to the FDA are aspartame-related. Some reported reactions thought to be caused by aspartame include:

• Headache
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Memory loss
• Fatigue
• Vision loss

Environmental Health Perspectives (EHP) has a very recent study out that covers its findings on how aspartame in low doses does affect one’s probability of developing cancer. This study also reports that when fetuses are exposed to aspartame, the life-long rates for developing cancer can increase.

U.S. .Senator Russell Feingold: T. Boone Pickens' Energy Independence Pledge

Here is the e-mail letter I received from U.S. Senator Russell Feingold in response to writing him (and other members of Congress) to join with T. Boone Pickens and supporters in calling for an Energy Independence Plan to be enacted within the first 100 days of the next administration.

Write to your members of Congress by clicking on link now!

http://action.pickensplan.com/c.hdKGIKNqEoG/b.4478389/k.67AB/PickensPlan_Action_Center/siteapps/advocacy/ActionItem.aspx?c=hdKGIKNqEoG&b=4478389&aid=11235

The letter goes as follows:

Dear XXX,

Thank you for contacting me regarding renewable energy. I appreciate hearing from you on this important issue. In order to protect our environment, our economy, and our national security, we must encourage the increased use of renewable energy and increased energy efficiency.

In the Senate, I have strongly supported efforts to expand the use of renewable energy. On December 13, 2007, I voted for a comprehensive Senate energy bill (H.R. 6) which will help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by raising energy efficiency standards for lighting, appliances, and government buildings; increasing the renewable fuel standard from 8.5 billion gallons in 2008 to 36 billion gallons in 2022; and setting strong but reasonable Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards. On December 19, 2007, the President signed the bill into law.

During consideration of H.R. 6, I supported efforts to establish a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) requiring that 15 percent of the country's electricity come from renewable sources by 2020. Enactment of an RPS would promote energy diversity, stimulate significant job creation, and deliver substantial environmental benefits. Unfortunately, the Senate rejected a motion to include an RPS in the bill.

I have also consistently supported and voted for the extension of renewable energy tax credits. During debate on H.R. 6, I supported a proposal to repeal nearly $13 billion in tax breaks for oil and gas companies over ten years and use that money, among other things, to provide multiyear extensions of tax credits for wind and solar projects, as well as promote energy efficiency. I was disappointed the Senate narrowly rejected a motion to include this tax plan in the bill. I also voted to include clean energy tax incentives in H.R. 5140, the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008; unfortunately, the final version of H.R. 5140, which was signed into law on February 13, 2008, did not include the critical clean energy tax incentives.

On October 1, 2008, the Senate passed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, which included the renewable energy tax incentives I had previously voted for. The bill passed the House on October 3, 2008, and was signed into law by the President later that day. I am pleased that we succeeded in extending tax incentives for homeowners and industry to spur more efficient homes and appliances, renewable electricity, alternative vehicles, and renewable fuels.

You might also be interested to know that on September 11, 2008, I introduced the Energy and Technology Advancement (ETA) Act, which would help move new energy technologies from the research and development phase to the marketplace. In addition, my bill would encourage the USDA to pursue a biorefinery pilot plant that will allow businesses to partner with the federal government to test biofuel technologies, increasing the chance of commercialization. S. 3472 has been referred to the Senate Agriculture Committee. I look forward to Senate consideration of this legislation.

Thanks again for contacting me. Please feel free to do so in the future about this, or any other issue of concern to you.

Ada Cosmetics: Vegan Mineral Veil Foundation & Mineral Blush. Why Mineral Makeup?

In my quest to find a vegan foundation and blush that is NOT linked to cancer, I have discovered Ada (ah-dah) Cosmetics. They produce a mineral veil foundation and a mineral blush that both rate a 1 on the Skin Deep database (www.cosmeticsdatabase.org). Yay!

Where can you purchase Ada Cosmetics?
Visit Natural Healthcare Store for your Ada Cosmetics products.

Ada Cosmetics is a signor of Campaign for Safe Cosmetics AND NIRC's "Truth in Labeling".
They have pledged to use natural ingredients and assures the use of NO chemical ingredients known or thought to have major negative effects including LINKS TO CANCER. They do not test on animals.

To learn more about Ada Cosmetics, visit them here:
http://www.adacosmetics.com/store/Cosmetics-p-1-c-251.html

Why Mineral Make-Up?
SOURCE: http://www.naturalhealthcarestore.com/makeupwhyada.htm

• Purity! Mineral cosmetics are loose powders containing crushed minerals that have been extracted from the Earth's surface. Many dermatologists report that because high quality mineral cosmetics eliminate the use of classic "irritants" such as fragrances, binders, synthetics, dyes, and preservatives it is considered "purer" and can be kinder and gentler to the skin (see Dr. Endorsements). Additionally, it's not absorbed into the skin and won't clog pores, but actually adheres to the skin providing perfect coverage all day!

• Natural SPF! Mineral make-up is formulated with a high concentration of the natural minerals titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which are two ingredients commonly used in sunscreens. These minerals offer a natural sun protection effectively blocking both UVA and UVB rays. Ada Cosmetics offer protection of up to SPF20.

• Water Resistant! Mineral make-up is water resistant and does not smear with perspiration making it the perfect choice active individuals. Great for athletes including swimmers, runners and bikers in addition to anyone who might get caught in the rain. Just pat dry with a towel!

• Non-Comedogenic, Non-Acnegenic, Anti-inflammatory! Mineral make-up is so gentle it's recommended by many Doctors! Two of the main ingredients in mineral make-up, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, are known for their natural anti-inflammatory properties (see Dr. Endorsements).

Why Ada Cosmetics?

• Better Prices! Ada Cosmetics provides it mineral cosmetics at the best price! As compared with the top brands you'll save 40% to 85%!

• Better Ingredients! Ada Cosmetics prides itself on using only top quality ingredients! As such, Ada is a step above Bare Minerals and Sheer Cover as it excludes Bismuth Oxy-Chloride an ingredient known to irritate the skin causing itching, rashes, and cystic acne. See our comparison chart below!

• Dr. Endorsements! As a result of its high quality ingredients Ada has received multiple Dr. Endorsements supporting the safe, effective and therapeutic effects of their make-up products.

• Pure and Natural! Ada Cosmetics is a proud signer of both the NIRC's "Truth in Labeling" pledge and the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics Pledge. These pledges commit that Ada both uses natural ingredients and assures the use of no chemical ingredients known or thought to have major negative effects including links to cancer. Note that many major cosmetic companies have thus far refused to sign this pledge including Bare Minerals and Sheer Cover (as of 11/5/07). Review links to Campaign for Safe Cosmetics and NIRC.

Order Ada Cosmetics at Natural Healthcare Store now!

Presidential Election Tomato Spinach Egg Salad. Vote Early! McCain or Obama? Declare Yourself.

• Who are you voting for & why?

• Will you vote early or wait until November 4, 2008?

Post your comments below!

I cast my vote early this week!
To celebrate I created (and ate) a
Presidential Election Tomato Spinach Egg Salad.

• How Green is John McCain?
• How Green is Barack Obama?
  

Click on link to see if your state allows early voting:
http://www.declareyourself.com/voting_faq/why_wait_.html





Know the issues:
http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=5856880291347077340

Know the candidates:
http://www.declareyourself.com/voting_faq/candidates.html

I Signed The Pickens Plan Petition--Will You?

Click here to sign a petition
asking the Presidential candidates to tell us
what their plan is for energy independence.

Learn More About the Pickens Plan here:

http://www.pickensplan.com/about/

Replacing Your Non-Stick Cookware with Safer Alternatives

Non-stick cookware contains PFC's ( Perfluorinated chemicals) which are harmful to your health and the health of the environment.

What are the possible health effects? http://www.enviroblog.org/2008/04/cheatsheet-perfluorochemicals.htm

If you are looking to replace your non-stick cookware with safer alternatives,
check out the following list (see below) from the Green Guide.
Source: http://www.thegreenguide.com/doc/ask/nonstick

What to Look Out For

Since Teflon is only one variety of the non-stick chemical polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) used on cookware, watch out for “non-stick” labeling and ask if the coating is PTFE, even if it’s not Teflon. Calphalon, Scanpan and All Clad’s non-stick pans all use PTFE coatings.

Alternatives

When you do replace your pans, choose cast iron, stainless steel or enameled iron. Here are some popular brands:

KitchenAid Stainless Steel 10-piece cookware set, including 8" and 10" French skillets ($149; www.jcpenney.com)

Lodge unseasoned Original Finish 10.25" skillet, ($13.95) and Cast Iron Cooking for Dummies set ($89.95; www.lodgemfg.com; 423-837-7181)

Cuisinart 10" stainless steel skillet ($60) and 7-piece Chef's Classic stainless steel set ($260; www.cuisinart.com)

DeBuyer Lyonnaise Carbon Steel Frying Pans 11" ($44.95; www.broadwaypanhandler.com, 866-COOKWARE)

All-Clad 10" stainless-steel frypan with aluminum core ($84.95) or 5-piece set ($394; www.broadwaypanhandler.com; 866-COOKWARE)

Le Creuset enameled 9" skillet ($49.95; www.broadwaypanhandler.com; 866-COOKWARE)

Health Benefits of Eggs

Here are just a few reasons I'm going to eat more eggs!

Source:
http://www.healthdiaries.com/eatthis/10-health-benefits-of-eggs.html

• One egg contains 6 grams of high-quality protein and all 9 essential amino acids.

• Eggs are one of the only foods that contain naturally occurring vitamin D.

• Eggs may prevent breast cancer. In one study, women who consumed at least 6 eggs per week lowered their risk of breast cancer by 44%.

• Eggs promote healthy hair and nails because of their high sulphur content and wide array of vitamins and minerals. Many people find their hair growing faster after adding eggs to their diet, especially if they were previously deficient in foods containing sulphur or B12.

To see all 10 Health Benefits of Eggs, go to:
http://www.healthdiaries.com/eatthis/10-health-benefits-of-eggs.html

Technique for hard cooking eggs:
http://whatscookingamerica.net/Eggs/BoiledEggs.htm

How To Peel Hard-Cooked Eggs Easily:

http://whatscookingamerica.net/Q-A/eggs.htm

How To Make A Perfect Deviled Egg
http://whatscookingamerica.net/Eggs/DeviledEggs.htm

FAQ's about Eggs
http://whatscookingamerica.net/Eggs/FAQ.htm

Garden Vegetable Omelet
http://whatscookingamerica.net/Eggs/GardenVegetableOmelet.htm

Taco Quiche
http://whatscookingamerica.net/Eggs/TacoQuiche.htm

Linda's Favorite French Toast
http://whatscookingamerica.net/Eggs/FrenchToast.htm

Spinach Cheese Squares
http://whatscookingamerica.net/Appetizers/SpinachCheeseSquares.htm

Breakfast Tacos
http://whatscookingamerica.net/Eggs/BreakfastTaco.htm

Microwave Popcorn Health Scare

Author: Jaci Rae

A recent news piece on CNN Prime News Tonight with Erica Hill revealed evidence that microwave popcorn could be harmful to your health. In the news piece it was discovered that Fluorooctanoic Acid was shown to be in high levels in microwave popcorn bags.

Fluorooctanoic Acid, which is added to the microwave-popcorn bags as a resistant coating, releases onto the popcorn when the bag is heated up and is then absorbed into the bloodstream and stays there for a long time. This chemical appears to be carcinogenic in lab animals. The FDA is now studying the affects of this chemical in greater detail.

In addition to the problem above, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is studying a different problem associated with the butter flavoring in microwave popcorn. NDTV had this to report: "Exposure to vapors from butter flavoring in microwave popcorn has been linked to a rare lung disease contracted by factory workers in Missouri, Illinois, Iowa and Nebraska." The companies who manufacture the harmful Teflon chemical stated they will eliminate the chemical by the year 2015.

Here is a recent headline:

Possible Health Concerns Over Popcorn Bags

05-02-06 at 4:56PM

"A Health Alert has been issued for microwave popcorn. Scientists are now taking a closer look at some of the popcorn's packaging.

A study by the FDA found that a coating, used to make microwave popcorn bags grease resistant, is seeping into popcorn.

"So what we're finding is that even before we cook the popcorn the butter is already contaminated with a paper flurochemical that will be absorbed into your blood and stay in your blood for a long, long time," said scientist Glenn Evers.

An independent scientific review board found an acid, which can be extracted from the chemical, causes cancer in animals and is likely to be carcinogenic to people."

So what can you do in the meantime? Popcorn has become a staple and is also an affordable luxury in these troubled economic times. Recently I discovered all was not lost and I would still be able to enjoy a newer brand of microwave popcorn. A new company has come up with an affordable, practical and convenient solution that will help ensure you and your family isn't being exposed to toxic chemicals when eating this delectable treat.

Granny's Natural Microwave Popcorn comes with natural FDA approved microwave popcorn bags, a recipe booklet and more. There are no additives, preservatives and/or chemicals that are now being found in the microwave-popcorn you're used to. You and your family deserve to know you are safe before 2015.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/microwave-popcorn-health-scare-31310.html

About the Author:
Jaci Rae is the author of The Indie Guide to Music, Marketing and Money and Winning Points with the Woman in Your Life One Touchdown at a Time. Book Jaci for your next show: and hit contact button for her publicist.

Are Egg Whites or Whole Eggs Healthier For You?

Author: Michael Geary

It's not uncommon for the majority of people to think that egg whites are healthier for you than whole eggs. I'm going to show you here why that is a major false belief, and why whole eggs are MUCH better for you than egg whites.

I was on a vacation recently with some friends & one of my friends was cooking breakfast for the entire group. I went over to see what he was cooking and saw he was preparing a large batch of eggs.

Unfortunately, to my shock and horror, I noticed that he was cracking the eggs open and screening the egg whites into a bowl and throwing the egg yolks out down the drain. I asked him why the heck he was throwing out the egg yolks, and his reply was something of the sort...

"because I thought the egg yolks were horrible for you... all of the nasty fat and cholesterol is in the yolks I thought".

And I replied something like, "you mean that's where all of the nutrition is!"

This is a perfect example of how confused the majority of society is about nutrition. In a world full of food marketing misinformation and deception, somehow most people now mistakenly think that the egg yolk is the worst part of the egg, when in fact, the yolk is actually the HEALTHIEST portion of the egg!

By throwing out the yolk and only eating the egg whites, you are basically throwing out the most nutrient dense, vitamin and mineral loaded, antioxidant-rich portion of the egg. The egg yolks contain so many trace minerals, B-vitamins, vitamin A, choline, folate, lutein, & other powerful important nutrients... it is not even worth trying to list them all.

In fact, the egg whites are almost devoid of nutrition when compared to the egg yolk.

Even the protein in egg whites is not as powerful and bioavailable without the yolks to balance out the amino acid profile and make the protein more useful to your body. Not to even mention that the egg yolks from free range chickens are chock full of omega-3 fatty acids.

The egg yolks contain more than 90% of the phosphorus, calcium, zinc, iron, thiamin, B6, B12, folate, and panthothenic acid of the egg. In addition, the egg yolks contain the entire amount of the fat soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K in the egg, as well as ALL of the essential fatty acids (EFAs).

And now the typical objection I get all the time when I say that the yolks are the most nutritious part of the egg...

"But Mike... I heard that whole eggs will skyrocket my cholesterol through the roof, and they are high in fat"

No, this is FALSE thinking!

First of all, when you eat a food that is high dietary cholesterol such as eggs, your body down-regulates it's internal production of cholesterol to balance things out.

On the other hand, if you don't eat enough cholesterol, your body simply produces more since cholesterol has many important functions in your body.

And here is where it gets even more interesting...

There are indications in scientific studies that eating whole eggs actually raises your good HDL cholesterol to a higher degree than LDL cholesterol, thereby improving your overall cholesterol ratio and blood chemistry.

And 3rd... high cholesterol is NOT a disease! Heart disease is a disease... but high cholesterol is NOT. Cholesterol is attacking the wrong problem... The real problem is the underlying internal inflammation that is signaling your body to deposit cholesterol as a healing agent. Attacking the root cause of the internal inflammation (smoking, stress, poor diet of refined sugars, trans fats, etc) is the real solution to heart disease... not trying to lower cholesterol.

And the fat argument is simply ridiculous... despite the popular erroneous belief, the fats in free range eggs are good for you and will actually help make you leaner via appetite control and hormonal balance.

So I hope we've established that whole eggs are not some evil food that will wreck your body... instead whole eggs are FAR superior to egg whites. Egg whites are basically just a processed food since you've messed up what nature intended.

Also, your normal super-market eggs from mass factory farms just do not compare nutritionally with organic free range eggs from healthy chickens that are allowed to roam freely and eat a more natural diet.

I recently compared eggs I bought at the grocery store with a batch of eggs I got at a farm stand where the chickens were free roaming and healthy.

Most people do not realize that there i s a major difference because they have never bought real eggs from healthy chickens... The eggs from the grocery store had thin weak shells and pale yellow yolks.

On the other hand, the eggs from the healthier free range chickens from the local farm had deep orange colored yolks and strong thick shells indicating much higher nutrition levels and carotenoids, and just a healthier egg in general.

So the next time a well-meaning but misinformed health or fitness professional tells you that egg whites are superior, you can quietly ignore their advice knowing that you understand the REAL deal about the nutritional supremacy of egg yolks.

One more interesting tidbit about eggs...

I read a study recently that compared groups of people that ate egg breakfasts versus groups of people that ate bagel or cereal based breakfasts. The results of the study showed that the egg eaters lost or maintained a healthier bodyweight, while the cereal/bagel eaters gained weight and had more body fat.

It was hypothesized that the egg eaters actually ate less calories during the remainder of the day because their appetite was more satisfied (from the healthy fats and quality protein) compared to the cereal & bagel eaters who would have been more prone to wild blood sugar swings and more frequent food cravings.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/nutrition-articles/are-egg-whites-or-whole-eggs-healthier-for-you-357536.html

About the Author:

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Diet: Is Meat Really Good for Us? What Happens When We Eat Meat? Find Out.

Author: Patrick Hamouy

Meat

When we look at our diet and what is good and bad for us, it is always beneficial to look at the way our ancestors used to eat. What has been eaten for 100,000s of years has determined the ability of our body to digest certain food. It will take another few thousand years (at best) before our body is able to digest the junk food some people ingest nowadays.

Prior to the Second World War, meat was expensive and most people only ate it on special occasions or at weekends (if they could afford it). Nowadays, some people eat meat several times a week. Sometimes, several times a day. Mr Richard McDonald and Ray Kroc have probably killed more people than were killed during the Second World War by introducing their fast food restaurants.

Should we really eat meat?

To answer this question, let's consider the following facts:

* Our teeth tell us that we should not eat much meat. Our molars and premolars are for grinding and crushing. Carnivores have teeth that are sharp and pointed, made to tear the flesh of other animals.

* Our saliva contains ptyalin and is alkaline for the digestion of starches. Carnivore's saliva is acid for the digestion of animal food.

* Our digestive system is 30 feet (10 metres) in length to allow the slow absorption of all the nutrients we eat. A carnivore's digestive system is short (only about 3 times the length of their trunk), meat does not get a chance to stagnate and stick to the walls.

* A carnivore's stomach generates ten times as much hydrochloric acid as ours does for the digestion of meat.

* The digestion of meat generates Uric acid. Our liver cannot easily eliminate Uric acid. A carnivore's liver can eliminate ten to fifteen times more Uric acid than ours can.

Where will I get my protein?

This is a standard question when I tell people to cut down or entirely give meat. First, we must learn that we do not just absorb protein from meat. In order for our body to create protein from meat, it must first break the animal protein down into amino acids and then manufacture human protein with these. This procedure is very tiring on the body and extremely inefficient.

Where do you think horses, elephants, cows, sheep etc.. get their protein from? Yes, you've got it: from the grass, vegetation and all the plants they eat.

Secondly, let's clear the misconception about the importance of protein in our diet. The information originates from tests that were conducted on rats. Rats need up to eleven times as much protein as we need in our diet as is illustrated by analysing rat mother's milk. So relax, you are not going to die from a lack of protein if you stop eating meat.

One of my main Macrobiotic teacher, Denny Waxman, used to tell us that the body manufactures protein from just about any food and that we could not be lacking protein unless we stopped eating or were malnourished. This is confirmed by research done in 1957 (Rose, W. "The amino acid requirements of adult man" - Nutritional abstracts and reviews) confirming that nearly all the complex carbohydrates, such as those in whole grains, beans or potatoes, have amino acid profile adequate for human protein needs.

On the subject of protein, it is interesting to learn that in Macrobiotic, we are also told that cancers feed on protein and that we always restrict the amount of protein in a cancer patient's diet.

Some will argue that fat is necessary because it is a source of linoleic acid. As this acid is also contained in brown rice, the body will get an ample supply by following the diet described in this book and this will not be a problem.

Where else can I get protein from?

If you are still worried about your protein intake, the following food has a high content of easily absorbed amino acid suitable for the production of human protein: Peas, lentils, chick peas, kidney beans, fish, tofu, green grapes, iceberg lettuce, collards and kale.

What is the effect of meat on the body?

These days meat is usually frozen, overcooked and as such stripped of all its goodness. It gives an immediate burst of energy and strength. This is OK in colder and Polar Regions if you do not mix the meat with sweet (Yin) food, otherwise it is deadly.

An excess of meat will cause problems of accumulation of matter: clogged vessels and organs, putrefaction and infection. As soon as the animal is killed, meat starts to putrefy. This process is nowadays controlled by the use of freezing that allows us to eat animals killed several days, weeks, months or years (as recent TV programs informed us).

Putrefaction resumes when the meat is unfrozen i.e. just before you start eating it. To properly digest meat takes 3 to 5 days and as much as two weeks in the elderly. This is compared with a proper digestion time of one to one and half day for non-meat eaters.

Should you eat meat on a regular basis, your intestines are never clear and the meat putrefies in your digestive track. Putrefaction produces toxins and amines that accumulate in the liver, kidneys and large intestines, destroys bacterial cultures (especially those that synthesise vitamin B complex) and causes degeneration of the villi of the small intestine.

Saturated fatty acid accumulates in and around vital organs and blood vessels, often leading to cysts, tumours, and hardening of the arteries. Saturated fat also raises the amount of cholesterol in the blood. Over a period of several years, putrefied meat is going to adhere to the lining of your intestines and cause various problems such as IBS, stomach cramps, prolapsed colons, haemorrhoids, constipation, diverticulosis, appendicitis, varicose veins, atherosclerosis and colon cancer etc...

To compensate for eating meat, the body needs more oxygen in the bloodstream. The breathing rate rises after eating animal food making it difficult to maintain a calm mind. Thinking becomes defensive, suspicious, rigid and sometimes aggressive. A very analytical view is often the result.

It makes the muscles slack and the joints stiff. Daily consumption of meat and dairy food, is at the core of our excessive protein intake, which has been associated with de-hydration and heat-stroke in athletes, fatal exacerbation of kidney and liver malfunctions, increased acidity of body fluids, infant deaths, premature ageing, heart disease, and cancer. A high protein intake creates toxic by-products in the form of unused nitrogen; excreting these can seriously overtax the kidneys, unless large amounts of water are taker to flush them out.

The saturated fat content of meat will then start circulating in your blood stream and start coating your arteries and eventually various organs eventually leading to the development of serious disease such as cancer or heart problems.

In the United states these days, 2 out of every 3 person suffers some form of serious problems related to that very high intake of fat.

"The average American & European intestine carries within it over 5 pounds of putrid, half digested red meat, plus another 5-10 pounds of foul toxic mucous waste impacted of years in the folds of the colon and small intestines."

When the actor John Wayne died, an autopsy revealed that his intestines had grown to 12" (30 cms) in diameter with only a small opening in the middle to allow the digestive process to painfully carry on.

What else is in the meat I eat?

This is one of the problems. Nowadays, the meat that you buy contains a lot of chemicals that you end up eating when you consume your favorite dish:

Antibiotics and steroids in the feed to prevent infections and increase weight quickly. This has had the effect of causing the development of new disease breeding bacteria, resistant to many form of antibiotics and causing a threat to human life.

Sex hormones such as androgens, progestogens and estrogens to promote faster growth. The long term effects associated with the consumption of these are:

Obesity, infertility, diabetes, dwarfism, gigantism, kidney disease, hypertension, precocious puberty, hypoglycaemia, masculinisation of females, feminisation of males and cancer.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-and-family-articles/diet-is-meat-really-good-for-us-what-happens-when-we-eat-meat-find-out-223357.html

About the Author:
Patrick Hamouy teaches Reiki Healing, Indian Head Massage, Emotional Freedom Therapy (EFT), Anatomy & Physiology, Oriental Diagnosis & Psychic Development. He sees customers for consultations.in Macrobiotic, Emotional Freedom Therapy (EFT) and Removal of toxic products from the home environment Full information on his web site at: http://www.therapies.com

Dr. Bronner's Organic Magic Soaps Really Are Magic: Save on iHerb.com

Here are some of my favorite Dr. Bronner's organic magic soaps.
If you haven't yet discovered these all-in-one soaps--do try them!

Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps
NEWSFLASH! Order Dr. Bronner's magic soaps and SAVE $5 on your first iherb order when you use my Coupon Code: CEL445. YES!

Click on link to order and learn more about Dr. Bronner's magic soaps.

http://www.iherb.com/Search.aspx?c=1&kw=dr%20bronner

My Experience with Dr. Bronner's Castile soaps: I fill my hand dispensers with diluted castile soap and also keep some in the shower to use as body wash. Works beautifully and doesn't dry out hand/body like conventional soaps do. I sometimes also add a little to some of my homemade house cleaning solutions. There are many other uses too!

My Experience with Dr. Bronner's Sal Suds:
Forget conventional laundry detergent--this cleans your laundry! Forget conventional dish soap--this cleans your dishes! Forget the toxic floor cleaner--this cleans floors too--plus a whole lot more. Safe and naturally WITHOUT the toxins. Why buy 10 bottles of different cleaning solutions when one bottle does it all. Save money and the environment. Keep toxic waste and packaging out of landfills. Keep your house safe & clean (which in turn will keep your family and pets safe too) by only using natural products.

PACKAGING:

All cylinder bottles are now made from 100% post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic, a marketplace first pioneered by Dr. Bronner's. The bar soaps are wrapped in Living Tree Paper's Vanguard Recycled Plus (10% Hempflax/ 90% PCR) paper.

Natural Crystal Rock Roll On Deodorant: Greenify Your Pits!

Why do I love this deodorant?

It's safe! It's natural!

NEWSFLASH! You can get this deodorant for discounted price of only $2.79 on iherb and SAVE $5 on your first time iherb order when you use my Coupon Code: CEL445. YES!
Click on link to order:
http://www.iherb.com/ProductDetails.aspx?c=1&pid=5647&at=0

SOURCE:
http://www.thecrystal.com/rated_safest.cfm

Crystal Body Deodorants have been rated #1 by the Environmental Working Group in a safety assessment test of ingredients used in all deodorants!

In a searchable product guide called "Skin Deep" (A Safety Assessment of Ingredients in Personal Care Products), Crystal Body Deodorant occupies up to the first 10 slots in the category of deodorants with the lowest concern. You may also find this information on The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics website (www.safecosmetics.org).

See the report:

Compared to other leading "natural" deodorants

Compared to leading mainstream deodorants

Know the facts! More about Crystal Roll on Deodorant:

• The Original all natural deodorant
• NO Aluminum Chlorohydrate
• Hypoallergenic, non-sticky, and environmently safe
• Fragrance and paraben free
• Roll on deodorant 2.25 oz

Read The Crystal Story below
SOURCE: (http://www.thecrystal.com/crystal_story.cfm)

The Crystal Story

Consumers would be surprised to learn that over the years eight different common ingredients found in deodorant products have been banned for posing a health hazard to users. Many deodorants also contain aluminum chlorohydrate, a harmful chemical still found in 85% of deodorants on the market.

Crystal Body Deodorant, the all natural alternative to mainstream deodorants, is hypoallergenic, fragrance free, non-sticky, non-staining, and is made of 100% natural mineral salts with no artificial coloring or ingredients. It is free of chemicals or dyes and contains NO Aluminum Chlorohydrate, helping us stay odor-free safe and naturally.

Since 1984, when it was first discovered in France, Crystal Body Deodorant has been a leader in healthy, natural deodorant protection. When first released it was sold only in a limited number of stores in the U.S. under the name, "Le Crystal Naturel", but today these products can be found in over 10,000 locations throughout the United States, Canada, Europe and Latin America.

Crystal Body Deodorant products are the #1 best-selling leaders in healthy, natural, deodorant protection. They have a committed following of loyal customers and are on the shelves of retailers worldwide.

Is YOUR deodorant safe?

check to see now www.cosmeticsdatabase.org.

Eco Colors Hair Color: Non-Toxic Permanent Color

If you are looking for a safer alternative when it comes to permanent hair color, consider EcoColors, a non-toxic permanent hair color.

They do NO animal testing and don't use sulfites as a preservative.

Where has EcoColors been featured?

• EcoColors is featured in "Gorgeously Green" , the latest book by Sophie Uliano.
• EcoColors Haircolor Featured on the Environmental News Network - November 14 2003. Visit ENN at www.enn.com
• EcoColors Haircolor Featured in E/The Environmental Magazine - August 2002 Issue. Visit E/The Environmental Magazine at www.emagazine.com

MY EXPERIENCE: I tried the medium ash brown and it's not as messy as the conventional home color kits and the smell is minimal. I first did the strand test (which is recommended) and although I wanted my hair a few shades lighter than my dark (black/brown) color, the strand test proved that it wasn't going to lighten my hair. I still went ahead with it. The overall color was not much different than what I started out with.

Would I buy this again? Yes, I probably would. I'm happy to use something that I know is not as toxic as the conventional hair colors out there.

Here is some text taken from their website (www.ecocolors.net):

Q) Why is EcoColors Haircolor different than other colors?

A) EcoColors Haircolor was formulated with non toxic in mind. With the addition of the highest quality ingredients such as lecithin, vitamin E, Vitamin C, nettles, rosemary, flower essence and grapefruit seed extract, EcoColors surpasses it’s competitors in performance with super conditioning coverage that is natural looking and shiny.

Check out the colors & order here:
http://www.ecocolors.net/index.cfm?pg=HomeHaircolorKit2

Price per kit $17.50 plus S&H.

If you've tried EcoColors--would love to hear from you--please post a comment below! And if you've tried another safer alternative hair color, what did you use and how was your experience?
Post in the comment section below--no registration required!