Raw Vegan Kale Chips.

KALE CHIPS RECIPE

MAKES 4 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS:
-1 bunch kale -1 bell pepper -1 C soaked walnuts -1/2 C nutritional yeast
-1/4 C maple syrup -2 TBSP lemon juice -1/2 TSP salt -1/2 TSP cayenne
METHOD
-Soak nuts overnight and then strain them. -Place nuts in food processor, add remaining ingredients, and pulse until the entire mixture is fully incorporated. -Place kale leaves in a bowl, add your mixture, and then massage the mixture into the leaves. -Spread the coated leaves on your dehydrator sheet or on cookie sheet with wax paper. Dehydrate overnight or bake in oven at 200F until crispy.

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Suicide Rates Falling In Medical Marijuana States

“We conclude that the legalization of medical marijuana leads to an improvement in the psychological well being of young adult males, an improvement that is reflected in fewer suicides.”

This story didn’t make it past the network news filters, was ignored by the mainstream media, and numerous mental health/suicide prevention organizations would not even comment about it!
Wall Street Journal – Does Medical Marijuana Reduces Suicides? 

Why would a “good news” marijuana story, like where suicides markedly declined, be ignored by the media? Now some truth and daylight as reported by three American researchers who had their findings published by the Institute for the Study of Labor in Bonn, Germany. Why wouldn't it be published in the U.S.? Is it safe for a researcher and his or her future academic funding to challenge government dogma and publish contrary evidence domestically? Apparently it may not be, because it contradicts the misinformation and the socially engineered negative propaganda campaign against marijuana by self-serving interests since 1937. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGZEMwMx2vk

 If the results of this study reported the opposite results, it would be the lead headline nationwide, I assure you. The emperor truly has no clothes!

• Marijuana improves the “psychological well being” of young adult males and saves lives!

• Marijuana’s major actions are that of an anti-depressant, anti-anxiety and anti-anger medication.

• Marijuana reduces alcohol consumption in this at risk population. ​

Can it to be used prevent suicide in a high-risk population? And what exactly is this state of “improved psychological well being?” It has been described and supported with evidence as the “cannabinoid homeostatic healing perspective” (CHHP) and the “psychology of optimal experience.” Marijuana’s therapeutic effect requires immediate further research, as the suicide study emphasizes. Do you really have to be sick to get benefit from cannabis? Isn’t relaxation itself medicinal?

 From: “High on Life? Medical Marijuana Laws and Suicide” / Jan 2012 (Anderson, Rees, Sabia)

 Abstract: Using state-level data (from Centers for Disease Control) for the period 1990 through 2007, we estimate the effect of legalizing medical marijuana on suicide rates. “There have been no previous attempts to estimate the effect of medical marijuana laws on completed suicides, the tenth leading cause of death in the United States.” (National Institute of Mental Health 2010) Data from states where medical marijuana is legal, looking back three years prior to legalization, the year of legalization (year zero) and three years’ post-legalization was compared against data on suicide rates in prohibition states.

“Our results suggest that the passage of a medical marijuana law is associated with an almost 5 percent reduction in the total suicide rate. “An 11 percent reduction in the suicide rate of 20- through 29-year-old males; and a 9 percent reduction in the suicide rate of 30- through 39-year-old males.” “We conclude that the legalization of medical marijuana leads to an improvement in the psychological well being of young adult males, an improvement that is reflected in fewer suicides.”

In an often-cited article by Hamermesh and Soss (1974), who were the first economists to model suicidal behavior, and according to their “economic theory of suicide,” negative shocks to happiness can reduce expected lifetime utility to the point where an individual will decide to take his or her own life,” overwhelming the individual’s ability to maintain homeostasis. “Even if a shock is perceived to be temporary, an individual with ‘time inconsistent preferences’ may commit suicide at the prospect of having to cope with an acutely painful state in the present.” “Consistent with the hypothesis that marijuana can be an effective treatment for depression and other mood disorders, there appears to be a decrease in the suicide rate of 15-19 year-old males in the treatment states as compared to the prohibition states for approximately two years after legalization.”

 “A similar decrease can be seen for males 20-59 and there is a moderate decrease in males 60 years or older three years after legalization.” In addition, this downward trend in suicides in states post-legalization was especially pronounced in males as was the risk of suicide by decreasing alcohol consumption. “The total suicide rate falls smoothly during the pre-legalization period in both MML (medical marijuana law) and non-MML states. “However, beginning in year zero, the trends diverge: the suicide rate in MML states continues to fall, while the suicide rate in states that never legalized medical marijuana begins to climb gradually.” http://blog.norml.org/2012/02/21/study-passage-of-medical-marijuana-laws-correlated-with-fewer-suicides/ 
The negative relationship between legalization and suicides among young adult males is consistent with the argument that marijuana can be used to cope with such shocks. However, estimates provide an alternative explanation. These authors found that the passage of MMLs (medical marijuana laws) led to sharp decreases in alcohol-related traffic fatalities, self-reported alcohol use, and per capita beer sales. The strong association between alcohol consumption and suicide-related outcomes found by previous researchers raises the possibility that medical marijuana laws reduce the risk of suicide by decreasing alcohol consumption.

​And in a very sad, related story that we all need to be mindful of: “More U.S. Soldiers Killed Themselves than Died in Combat in 2010” “For the second year in a row, more American soldiers — both enlisted men and women and veterans — committed suicide than were killed in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Excluding accidents and illness, 462 soldiers died in combat, while 468 committed suicide. A difference of six isn’t vast by any means, but the symbolism is significant and troubling. In 2009, there were 381 suicides by military personnel, a number that also exceeded the number of combat deaths.” ​So, do you really have to be sick to benefit from cannabis? Isn’t relaxation itself medicinal?

The future is now! My last several posts have focused on evidence gathered over the last 10 years that shows marijuana can treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, and simultaneously increases subjective well being and positive states of cognitive, emotional and existential wellness. This study provides the numbers and stats to validate these claims. It provides evidence supporting marijuana’s positive psychology/happiness effects and the very topic of my recent post: marijuana and the psychology of optimal experience. When you ask people why they smoke marijuana, the most common answer is that it helps them relax and makes them feel better. That makes it medicine, and the word medical is redundant when talking about cannabis.

“Suicide is not chosen; it happens when pain exceeds resources for coping with pain.” Medical marijuana patients are able to reduce their use of painkillers, tranquilizers, and other psychiatric medicines! Isn’t it ironic that all antidepressants advertised on T.V. have increased suicide behavior as one of the many major side effects? Perhaps another variable at work here is that when people switch to safer marijuana to treat depression the prescription side effect of suicide goes away?

​SuicideNoteMarijuana restores homeostasis to the mind, similar to a period of mindfulness meditation or yoga. Marijuana reduces hostility, depression and anxiety, and blocks traumatic memories. Marijuana increases introspection, metacognition, calmness and laughter. Marijuana is unique among illegal drugs in its political symbolism, its safety, and its wide use. Smoking marijuana will never kill you; it is the antidote to modern life, it is medicine by popular vote! In 2007, the suicide rate was 11.26 per every 100,000 people. The population of the U.S. as of March 2, 2012 was 313,113,996. Approximately 35,250 suicide deaths occurred nationwide in 2007; a 5 percent decrease in suicide rate due to marijuana legalization would theoretically save almost 1,800 lives per year. The U.S. has been shoving our failed drug policy down the throats of countries around the world and and of citizens at home for decades. All of those in favor of a serious and honest debate say “Aye!”

Source: tokesignals.com

Mechanically Separated Meat Exposed

This is mechanically separated chicken. Chickens are turned into this goop so we can create delicious chicken nuggets and juicy chicken patties. It's obscenely gross and borderline alien but it's not going to stop me from eating nuggets. They're too good.

The process works a little something like this:There's more: because it's crawling with bacteria, it will be washed with ammonia, soaked in it, actually. Then, because it tastes gross, it will be reflavored artificially. Then, because it is weirdly pink, it will be dyed with artificial color.

What Are Chicken Nuggets Made Of?

Jamie Oliver - Nugget experiment epic failure

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Seven Natural Pharmaceutical Counterparts

Did you know that over 50% of the drugs in clinical use today contain natural products (and their derivatives and analogs)? These natural products are synthesized from plant compounds and bring up the question of why individuals suffering from illnesses are simply not provided with a prescription to eat these foods instead of given a chemical concoction of chemical pills with a component of said plant compounds.

Over 4 billion prescriptions in the United States and Canada make up more than 80% of the world’s prescription opioids. Even worse, between 1997 and 2012 these prescription opioids have increased in dosage by almost 500%!

Drug overdose death rates in the US have more than tripled since 1990. In 2008, drug overdoses were the leading cause of death of more than 36,000 people, most of these caused by prescription drugs. Nearly 15,000 people die every year of overdoses involving prescription painkillers – but doctors continue to prescribe, leaving this problem largely unfixed.

It is hard for some individuals to believe that plants have the power to heal and cure. Usually it is the case that people want a quick fix so that they do not have to give up their poor lifestyle and dietary habits. It is up to us to take responsibility for our own bodies and heal underlying health problems properly instead of bandaging them up with bandaids that keep falling off (and with wounds that fail to heal).

Most of the drugs prescribed today are those for pain, high blood pressure, cholesterol reduction, antacids, antipsychotics, hypothyroidism, diabetes and antibiotics. If you knew that you could simply increase the consumption of the proper foods (with no side effects) in your diet to help heal your body naturally – would you? Make the commitment and get off prescription drugs for good! Ask your doctor or take responsibility for your own health and wellness and start to eat proper, while phasing out prescription medications that are quite possibly doing your body no good.

1. Hydrocodone (Acetaminophen/Vicodin/Oxycontin)

Used for pain. Works as a narcotic & analgesic. 

Side effects/consequences: cardiac arrest, liver damage, bradycardia, coma, seizures, respiratory depression and death.

Natural Alternatives: ginger, turmeric, berries, cherries, celery, cayenne pepper, dark leafy greens, nuts (especially walnuts)

2. Statins (Lipitor/Zocor/Crestor)

Used to reduce LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. Works by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme critical to cholesterol production in the liver.

Side effects/consequences: acute kidney failure, cancer, inflammation & muscle breakdown, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, death, interference with hormones.

Natural Alternatives: Nuts, spinach, apples, turmeric, cranberries, tomatoes, green tea, alfalfa sprouts, bell peppers, garlic, fenugreek seeds, licorice root, hawthorn berry

3. Lisinopril (Prinivil/Zestril) and Norvasc (Amlodipine)

Used to reduce high blood pressure. Works by interfering with the metabolism of calcium.

Side effects/consequences: impotence, cancer, depression, blood disorders, tachycardia, gum enlargement, liver inflammation, hepatitis, elevated blood glucose, harsh skin conditions.

Natural Alternatives: citrus fruits (grapefruit, lemon, lime, orange, pineapple), high vitamin C vegetables (chili peppers, bell peppers, thyme, parsley, leafy greens, broccoli), magnesium rich foods (green leafy vegetables, cacao, brazil nuts, almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, pine nuts, black walnuts), potassium rich foods (bananas, mushrooms, oranges, dates, sweet potatoes), coconut oil, and coconut water

4. Synthroid (levothyroxine sodium)

Used for hypothyroidism. Works by replacing thyroid hormone, and thus stops natural thyroid hormone production altogether. 

Side effects/consequences: reduction in bone mineral density (caused by long-term suppression of TSH), elevated blood glucose levels, coma, adrenal insufficiency, heart failure, interferes with proper metabolization of iodine. 

Natural Alternatives: seaweed, kelp, radish, bananas, parsley, cranberries, strawberries, and leafy greens rich in copper, iron, selenium and zinc (such as kale, collards and swiss chard)

*Exercise is essential to the healing of a malfunctioning thyroid – aim for 20-30 minutes a day!

5. Prilosec (omeprazole/generic versions of nexium)

Used as an antacid. Works by preventing the stomach from secreting gastric acid which also halts proper digestion of food in the small intestine.

Side effects/consequences: ulcers, tachycardia, bradycardia, angina, palpitations, elevated blood pressure, pancreatic inflammation, irritable bowel syndrome, liver failure, liver disease, muscle weakness, skin conditions, tinnitus, inflammation of the eyes, increased urination, anemia, blood cell disorders.

Natural Alternatives: grapefruits, broccoli sprouts, raw honey (local is the best), marshmallow tea, glutamine, slippery elm, aloe vera juice, baking soda, probiotics

6. Azithromycin and Amoxicillin

Used as an antibiotic. Works by inhibiting the bacterium’s cell-wall-building mechanism so it can no longer replicate. These drugs also inhibit protein synthesis of the good bacteria needed by our bodies for proper immunity and digestion.

Side effects/consequences: destruction of healthy bacterial populations (even if you have had just one round of antibiotics in your entire life), inflammation of the liver and colon, allergic reactions, obesity, antibiotic resistance in humans, and destruction of stomach lining and thus inflammation of the stomach.

Natural Alternatives: vitamin D (sunlight preferably), garlic, coconut oil, turmeric, nuts, raw honey (local is best), green tea, paul D’Arco, burdock root, grapeseed extract, golden seal, and oregano oil

*Drinking plenty of water (4-6L) when you are sick is essential to flush the bacteria out of your system.

7. Glucophage (metformin)

Used as an oral anti-diabetic drug. Works by suppressing natural glucose production in the liver.

Side effects/consequences: malabsorption of vitamin B12 (and thus B12 deficiency), bladder cancer, impaired liver and kidney functioning, lactic acidosis, increased homocysteine levels, heart failure, interferes with proper pancreatic functioning

Natural Alternatives: black tea, green tea, vitamin D (especially in the form of sunlight), turmeric, nuts, chia seeds, green leafy vegetables, cinnamon, red grapes, broccoli, spinach, green beans, berries

Sources: Live Love Fruit

http://scholar.lib.vt.edu/theses/available/etd-72198-18137/unrestricted/Body.pdf

http://preventdisease.com/news/13/021213_The-7-Most-Prescribed-Drugs-In-The-World-And-Their-Natural-Counterparts.shtml

http://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/rxbrief/

webmd.com

mercola.com

drugwatch.com

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What's in a Fast Food Hamburger?

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10 Disgusting Facts About Fast Food

Autumn Pizza With Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Kale & Mozzarella

By Elizabeth Starnes from Mind Body Green

This pizza hits all the high notes of fall cooking, with very little hassle. Savory sweet potatoes, caramelized red onions, crispy kale and creamy mozzarella all combine to make a seasonal, bright and balanced pizza. With little more than good-quality olive oil and some fresh garlic, the ingredients really shine.

You can make your own pizza crust (gluten free or otherwise), or look for store-bought varieties in your supermarket. Whole wheat or regular both work beautifully. Consider roasting up all the toppings and setting them out along with individual portions of pizza dough, to cook either in the oven or on the grill, for a fun and personalized dinner party dish. For vegan diners, just omit the mozzarella and replace it with some vegan cheese, sliced avocado (post-oven) or nothing at all — still delicious!

(Serves 2-3 as a main course)

Ingredients:

• 1 batch of your favorite pizza dough
• 1 sweet potato, skin on, sliced as thinly as you can
• 1/2 red onion, sliced thinly
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 & 1/2 cups kale, ribs removed, chopped
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• kosher salt and pepper to taste
• 1 medium-size ball of fresh mozzarella, torn up into pieces
• Chopped fresh herbs (try basil, parsley, chives, thyme) and extra virgin olive oil to serve

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. On separate baking sheets, toss the sweet potatoes with the garlic, then the red onion, and the kale, with a tablespoon of olive oil and a bit of salt and pepper. Roast them in the oven individually until the sweet potatoes are tender, the onion has caramelized, and the kale has crisped up. Remove them from the oven, and transfer to bowls.

Crank up your oven to 500 (make sure its clean or it'll smoke like hell!). On a baking sheet (or a pizza stone if you have one), drizzle some olive oil, and stretch out your pizza dough in any shape you like. Top with the sweet potatoes, onions, kale, and torn up mozzarella if using. Drizzle everything with a bit more olive oil, and bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the pizza crust is golden brown and cooked through, and the cheese has melted.

Remove from the oven and transfer to a cutting board or large plate. Sprinkle over some chopped herbs, slice however you like, and enjoy!

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Coconut Oil Shows Signs of Improving Memory Loss for Alzheimer's Patients

Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), the primary type of fat found within coconut oil, have been found to boost cognitive performance in older adults suffering from memory disorders as serious as Alzheimer's -- and not after months or even days of treatment, but after a single 40 ml dose!

What Happens To Your Body When You Drink Coke

Have you ever wondered why Coke comes with a smile? Because it gets you high even though they removed the cocaine years ago.

In the first 10 minutes: 10 teaspoons of sugar(or GMO high fructose corn syrup) hit your system. (100% of your recommended daily intake.) You don’t immediately vomit from the overwhelming sweetness because phosphoric acid cuts the flavor, allowing you to keep it down.

20 minutes: Your blood sugar spikes, causing an insulin burst. Your liver responds to this by turning any sugar it can get its hands on into fat. (And there’s plenty of that at this particular moment.)

40 minutes: Caffeine absorption is complete. Your pupils dilate; your blood pressure rises; as a response, your liver dumps more sugar into your bloodstream. The adenosine receptors in your brain are now blocked, preventing drowsiness.

45 minutes: Your body ups your dopamine production, stimulating the pleasure centers of your brain. This is physically the same way heroin works, by the way.

> 60 minutes: The phosphoric acid binds calcium, magnesium, and zinc in your lower intestine, providing a further boost in metabolism. This is compounded by high doses of sugar and artificial sweeteners also increasing the urinary excretion of calcium.

> 60 minutes: The caffeine’s diuretic properties come into play. (It makes you have to pee.) It is now assured that you’ll evacuate the bonded calcium, magnesium, and zinc that was headed to your bones as well as sodium, electrolytes, and water.

> 60 minutes: As the rave inside you dies down, you’ll start to have a sugar crash. You may become irritable and/or sluggish. You've also now literally pissed away all the water that was in the Coke. But not before infusing it with valuable nutrients your body could have used for things like hydrating your system, or building strong bones and teeth.

Sources: BLISSTREE.COM

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How To Make A Healing Lip Salve

This recipe is also great for guys and for kids as it isn’t brightly colored or strongly scented. This recipe incorporates optional healing herbs that help heal and protect the lips, but you can leave these ingredients out to have an unscented and simply moisturizing version. Homemade healing lip balm/salve also lasts forever, since a little goes a really long way.

The herbal ingredients are naturally moisturizing, antibacterial, and antifungal, and some people have success with using it to speed healing of cold sores. It doesn’t contain petroleum or chemicals like most commercial lip products so you can feel safe using it on yourself of your kids.

All ingredients and tins and lip chap containers to store it in are available here. (Storing in a lip-chap container makes it portable and easy to apply. )

You Will Need:

• 1 cups of olive or almond oil
• 1 teaspoon echinacea root (optional)
• 1 teaspoon comfrey leaf (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of plantain leaf (herb-not banana!)
• 1 teaspoon of calendula flowers (optional)
• 1 teaspoon yarrow flowers (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of rosemary leaf (optional)
• 1/4 cup beeswax pastilles
• 1/2 tsp grapefruit seed extract or vitamin E oil to preserve (optional)
• 5-10 drops peppermint essential oil for scent/cooling/soothing (optional)

How To Make Healing Salve:

1. Infuse the herbs into the olive oil. There are two ways to do this. You can either combine the herbs and the olive oil in a jar with an airtight lid and leave 3-4 weeks, shaking daily  OR heat the herbs and olive oil over low/low heat in a double boiler for 3 hours (low heat!) until the oil is very green. You can also omit this step completely, or just a drop of each of the essential oils instead.
2. Strain the herbs out of the oil by pouring through a cheesecloth. Let all the oil drip out and then squeeze the herbs to get the remaining oil out.
3. Discard the herbs.
4. Heat 1/4 cup of the infused oil in a double boiler with the beeswax until melted and mixed. (save the extra oil for use on wounds/cuts or for another batch of lip salve).
5. Pour into small tins, glass jars or lip chap tubes and use on dry or chapped lips.

Source: Wellness Mama

Boost Your Metabolism with Apple Cinnamon Water

Boost your metabolism naturally with this ZERO CALORIE Detox Drink. Put down the diet sodas and crystal light and try this out for a week. You will drop weight and have
TONS ON ENERGY! Sounds yummy!
1 Apple thinly sliced
1 Cinnamon Stick
Drop apple slices in the bottom of the pitcher and then the cinnamon sticks, cover with ice about 1/2 way up then add water.

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Juice for Healthy Eyes

The 10 Most Cancer Causing Foods

The truth is that many common food items have been scientifically shown to increase cancer risk, and some of them substantially.

 Here are 10 of the most unhealthy, cancer-causing foods that you should never eat again:

1) Genetically-modified organisms (GMOs)

It goes without saying that GMOs have no legitimate place in any cancer-free diet, especially now that both GMOs and the chemicals used to grow them have been shown to cause rapid tumor growth. But GMOs are everywhere, including in most food derivatives made from conventional corn, soybeans, and canola. However, you can avoid them by sticking with certified organic, certified non-GMO verified, and locally-grown foods that are produced naturally without biotechnology.

2) Processed meats

Most processed meat products, including lunch meats, bacon, sausage, and hot dogs, contain chemical preservatives that make them appear fresh and appealing, but that can also cause cancer. Both sodium nitrite and sodium nitrate have been linked to significantly increasing the risk of colon and other forms of cancer, so be sure to choose only uncured meat products made without nitrates, and preferably from grass-fed sources.

3) Microwave popcorn

They might be convenient, but those bags of microwave popcorn are lined with chemicals that are linked to causing not only infertility but also liver, testicular, and pancreatic cancers. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognizes the perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in microwave popcorn bag linings as “likely” carcinogenic, and several independent studies have linked the chemical to causing tumors. Similarly, the diacetyl chemical used in the popcorn itself is linked to causing both lung damage and cancer.

4) Soda pop

Like processed meats, soda pop has been shown to cause cancer as well. Loaded with sugar, food chemicals, and colorings, soda pop acidifies the body and literally feeds cancer cells. Common soda pop chemicals like caramel color and its derivative 4-methylimidazole (4-MI) have also specifically been linked to causing cancer.

5) ‘Diet’ foods, beverages

Even worse than conventional sugar-sweetened soda pop, though, is “diet” soda pop and various other diet beverages and foods. A recent scientific review issued by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) of more than 20 separate research studies found that aspartame, one of the most common artificial sweeteners, causes a range of illnesses including birth defects and cancer. Sucralose (Splenda), saccharin and various other artificial sweeteners have also been linked to causing cancer.

6) Refined ‘white’ flours

Refined flour is a common ingredient in processed foods, but its excess carbohydrate content is a serious cause for concern. A study published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Mile Markers, and Prevention found that regular consumption of refined carbohydrates was linked to a 220 percent increase in breast cancer among women. High-glycemic foods in general have also been shown to rapidly raise blood sugar levels in the body, which directly feeds cancer cell growth and spread.

7) Refined sugars

The same goes for refined sugars, which tend to rapidly spike insulin levels and feed the growth of cancer cells. Fructose-rich sweeteners like high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) are particularly offensive, as cancer cells have been shown to quickly and easily metabolize them in order to proliferate. And since cookies, cakes, pies, sodas, juices, sauces, cereals, and many other popular, mostly processed, food items are loaded with HFCS and other refined sugars, this helps explain why cancer rates are on the rise these days.

8) Conventional apples, grapes, and other ‘dirty’ fruits

Many people think they are eating healthy when they buy apples, grapes, or strawberries from the store. But unless these fruits are organic or verified to be pesticide-free, they could be a major cancer risk. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that up to 98 percent of all conventional produce, and particularly the type found on its “dirty” fruits list, is contaminated with cancer-causing pesticides.

9) Farmed salmon

Farmed salmon is another high-risk cancer food, according to Dr. David Carpenter, Director of the Institute for Health and the Environment at the University of Albany. According to his assessment, farmed salmon not only lacks vitamin D, but it is often contaminated with carcinogenic chemicals, PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), flame retardants, pesticides, and antibiotics.

10) Hydrogenated oils

They are commonly used to preserve processed foods and keep them shelf-stable. But hydrogenated oils alter the structure and flexibility of cell membranes throughout the body, which can lead to a host of debilitating diseases such as cancer. Some manufacturers are phasing out the use of hydrogenated oils and replacing them with palm oil and other safer alternatives, but trans fats are still widely used in processed foods.

Source: Natural News

The 7 Wonders of Water!

What can water do for you?

• Stay Slimmer With Water

Trying to lose weight? Water revs up metabolism and helps you feel full.

Replace calorie-filled beverages with water, and drink a glass before meals to help you feel fuller.

Drinking more water helps amp up metabolism - especially if your glass is icy cold. Your body must work to warm the water up, burning a few extra calories in the process.

• Water Boosts Your Energy

If you're feeling drained and depleted, get a pick-me-up with water. Dehydration makes you feel tired.

The right amount of water will help your heart pump your blood more effectively.

And water can help your blood transport oxygen and other essential nutrients to your cells.

• Lower Stress With Water

About 70% to 80% of your brain tissue is water. If you're dehydrated, your body and your mind are stressed.

If you're feeling thirsty, you're already a little dehydrated.

To keep stress levels down, keep a glass of water at your desk or carry a sports bottle and sip regularly.

• Build Muscle Tone With Water

Drinking water helps prevent muscle cramping and lubricates joints in the body.

When you're well hydrated, you can exercise longer and stronger without "hitting the wall."

• Nourish Your Skin

Fine lines and wrinkles are deeper when you're dehydrated. Water is nature's own beauty cream.

Drinking water hydrates skin cells and plumps them up, making your face look younger.

It also flushes out impurities and improves circulation and blood flow, helping your skin glow.

• Stay Regular With Water

Along with fiber, water is important for good digestion.

Water helps dissolve waste particles and passes them smoothly through your digestive tract.

If you're dehydrated, your body absorbs all the water, leaving your colon dry and making it more difficult to pass waste.

• Water Reduces Kidney Stones

The rate of painful kidney stones is rising. One of the reasons could be because people -- including children -- aren't drinking enough water.

Water dilutes the salts and minerals in your urine that form the solid crystals known as kidney stones.

Kidney stones can't form in diluted urine, so reduce your risk with plenty of water!


Are you drinking enough water?



Source: Web MD

Feeling Depressed, Stressed, Anxious or Tired? Meditation Can Help!

It is the year 2013 and many have complained that the world has become a densely populated stress ball! Finding time for ourselves is becoming harder and harder to achieve. Why not try a little meditation? Research has shown that even the busiest of us can reduce our stress levels and live a calmer, more focused life with the use of meditation.

We hear it all the time: Meditation can improve our creative thinking, our energy, stress levels and even our success. Prominent artists, businessmen and politicians cop to the practice. Would it work for you?

"It did to my mind what going to the gym did to my body -- it made it both stronger and more flexible," said Dr. Hedy Kober, a neuroscientist who who studies the effects of mindfulness meditation, which she has practiced for 10 years, at her lab at Yale University. She admitted during a TED Talk that she started meditating to deal with a break up, but found that it helped her handle stress and unpleasant feelings in all areas of her life.

Studies show that meditation is associated with improvement in a variety of psychological areas, including stress, anxiety, addiction, depression, eating disorders and cognitive function, among others. There's also research to suggest that meditation can reduce blood pressure, pain response, stress hormone levels and even cellular health. But what does it actually do to the body?

For one thing, it changes our brain. The cells and neurons in the brain are constantly making new connections and disrupting old ones based on response to stimuli, a quality that researchers call experience-based neuroplasticity. This affects the neural circuits of the brain, which in turn affects how we respond to situations. It also affects the actual structure of our brains -- thickening some areas and making others less dense.

"Think of the end of a neuron as a hand, with thousands of 'fingers,'" said Dr. Sara Lazar, a neuroscientist at Massachusetts General Hospital who studies mindfulness meditation. "The number of fingers relates to the number of interconnections between neurons and that number can change -- one reason it can change is due to stress."

Source: The Huffington Post

10 Great Benefits of Bee Pollen, The New Superfood!

1. Energy Enhancer - The range of nutrients found within bee pollen makes it a great natural energizer. The carbohydrates, protein and B vitamins can help keep you going all day by enhancing stamina and fighting off fatigue.


2. Skin Soother - Bee pollen is often used in topical products that aim to treat inflammatory conditions and common skin irritations like psoriasis or eczema. The amino acids and vitamins protect the skin and aid the regeneration of cells. 


3. Respiratory System - Bee pollen contains a high quantity of antioxidants that may have an anti-inflammatory effect on the tissues of the lungs, preventing the onset of asthma.

4. Treating Allergies – Pollen reduces the presence of histamine, ameliorating many allergies. Dr. Leo Conway, M.D of Denver Colorado, reported that 94 percent of his patients were completely free from allergy symptoms once treated with oral feeding of pollen. Everything from asthma to allergies to sinus problems were cleared, confirming that bee pollen is wonderfully effective against a wide range of respiratory diseases.

5. Digestive System - In addition to healthful vitamins, minerals and protein, bee pollen contains enzymes that can aid in digestion. Enzymes assist your body in getting all the nutrients you need from the food that you eat.

6. Immune System Booster - Pollen is good for the intestinal flora and thereby supports the immune system. According to holistic health expert Dr. Joseph Mercola, bee pollen has antibiotic-type properties that can help protect the body from contracting viruses. It's also rich in antioxidants that protect the cells from the damaging oxidation of free radicals.


7. Treats Addictions – Used holistically for healing addictions and inhibiting cravings by suppressing impulses. Because bee pollen crashes cravings, it is a very useful research is needed into this benefit, particularly when it comes to weight management.



8. Supports the Cardiovascular System - Bee Pollen contains large amounts of Rutin; an antioxidant bioflavonoid that helps strengthen capillaries, blood vessels, assists with circulatory problems and corrects cholesterol levels. Its potent anti-clotting powers could help prevent heart attack and stroke.

9. Prostate Aid - Men who suffer from benign prostate hyperplasia can find relief by using bee pollen. Bee pollen can help reduce inflammation to stop frequent urges to urinate.



10. Infertility Problems - Bee pollen stimulates and restores ovarian function, therefore may be used to assist in accelerating pregnancy. As well as being a hormonal booster it is also a great aphrodisiac!



How Should Bee Pollen Be Consumed?
Bee pollen is a food and acts faster and more effectively when taken at mealtime and especially with fruit, which lets it gently, perform a little cleansing of the intestinal flora.

A spoonful at breakfast, preferably taken with a piece of fruit: the fruit fibers (raw hemicellulose) reinforce the activity of the fresh pollen.You'll be pleased to know that bee keepers are able to remove pollen from hives without harming the bees or disturbing their routine. 

Source: Food Matters

How To Make Your Own Natural Deodorant

Did you know that your favorite deodorant might contain dangerous ingredients that are known to cause cancer, brain damage, and liver abnormalities? Here are three of the worst:

Parabens:  Parabens (look on the label for methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben or isobutylparaben)  are used in many skincare and cosmetic products. They function as a preservative to  discourage bacteria and fungus. Research indicates that parabens from lotions or deodorants absorb into the body and weakly mimic estrogen, wreaking havoc on the endocrine system. Parabens have, not surprisingly, been found in breast cancer tumors- did you know that over 55% of breast tumors are located on the upper outside of the breast, near the underarm? That fact alone is enough to reconsider your paraben-ridden deodorant!  

Aluminum: The active ingredient in many deodorants/antiperspirants is aluminum, which actually blocks the body from producing sweat. I'd really hesitate to use any chemical compound that inhibits a normal and useful bodily function... but aside from that, aluminum can cause neurological damage and contribute to diseases like Alzheimer's  and Parkinson's. Aluminum can enter and remain in a human bloodstream for up to two weeks after just one application of deodorant/antiperspirant. 

Propelene Glycol: Propelene Glycol, often used in deodorants, is an ingredient in antifreeze. Factory workers who are exposed to it are warned of the danger of kidney, brain, and liver damage through skin contact. 

I've been using various all-natural deodorants for years to avoid exposing my body to the nasty ingredients in mainstream products, but have found it difficult to find one that I really like. Many brands are just too expensive, smell weird, or leave my skin dry, itchy, and red. I decided to try making my own deodorant on a whim and... wow! It's cheap, easy to make, and leaves my underarm skin odor-free, residue-free, soft, and smelling faintly of coconut. 

SO. I'm running the risk of being criticized for blogging about my armpits (:-)) to share this discovery with you!  

You'll only need a few simple ingredients: baking soda, which neutralizes odor, arrowroot powder to absorb moisture, and tea tree and coconut oil (both are antibacterials and antifungals, and the coconut oil is a great skin moisturizer).

Measurements:
1/4 Cup of Baking Soda
1/4 Cup of Arrowroot starch
4 Tb Coconut Oil
1/4 tsp Tea Tree Oil
Mix all ingredients together to form a paste/cream... and that's it!

To apply, just dip a finger in, hold it against your skin to warm the mixture for a second, and rub it in! A little goes a long way... I've never had trouble with it leaving spots on my clothing and I no longer have itchy, dry underarm skin issues! 

Original Article Source: Lifestyle Justice