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More Pesticides Used on GE Crops!

Jul 24th, 2010
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Do you wash your fruits and vegetables? And does that vigilant washing really do any good? Can you really wash off pesticides and herbicides?  These are great questions and need to be addressed here in the middle of summer with all of us eating more fresh foods, salads, greens, fruits and vegetables. Unless you are growing your own organic vegetables and fruits or purchasing from a known organic farmer, then your exposure to pesticides is real.

Vegetables

In a recent study by The Organic Center, pesticide usage on Genetically Engineered (GE), herbicide-tolerant (HT) crops has increased. Based upon data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), report author Dr. Charles Benbrook shows that glyphosate-based, HT corn, soybeans and cotton have increased herbicide use by 383 million pounds in the U.S. from 1996 to 2008 with 46 percent of the total increase occurring in 2007 and 2008.

“This unequivocal admission of serious problems with glyphosate-based HT cropping systems will hopefully accelerate major changes in where and how HT technology is deployed,” said Dr. Charles Benbrook, chief scientist of  The Organic Center. “Such changes are needed to slow the increase in cash expenditures by farmers on herbicides and public health and environmental problems triggered by increased use of herbicides on GE crops.”

Remember that pesticides and herbicides often seep into the fruits and vegetables so even though we are washing the produce, we are still getting some of the chemicals.  Choose wisely.

According to Dr. Benbrook, Organic farmers “accept a little weed pressure in their fields. The key to organic farming success in is the diversity of tools [to control weeds] on their farm.” Organic framers use crop rotation and cover crops to assist in weed control.

Be Healthy

So look for local organic produce for your dinner table. Wash your fruits and vegetables.

Stay healthy and enjoy the rest of summer!

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Posted in: Cancer, Children, Healthy Home, Healthy You, Nutrition, Pesticides, heart health.

Omega-3’s May Reduce Risk of Breast Cancer

Jul 10th, 2010
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In a recent study published in the Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention Journal, researcher Dr. Emily White, PhD. stated that “There is some limited evidence from my study and others that fish oil may be good for preventing breast cancer, but there is not sufficient evidence to make a public health recommendation right now.”  Even with the caution, she continued to say that “If you are taking fish oil now for other reasons, this is reassuring that it may have beneficial effects beside what you are taking it for.”

Omega-3’s are taken by many people for their benefit with heart related conditions.  Supportive but not conclusive research shows that consumption of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids may also reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.  Research also shows that high levels of omega-3 fatty acids promote cardiovascular health and help retain normal blood pressure and triglyceride levels. Omega-3s also support healthy brain, vision, and joint function.*

Involving more that 35,000 postmenopausal women, each completed a questionnaire about their use of supplements.  Included in the list of supplements was Fish Oil (Omega 3’s), St. John’s wort, acidophilus,soy, black cohosh, glucosamine, chondroitin, dong quai, methylsulfonylmethane, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, melatonin and garlic pills .

Consistent use of Omega-3 fatty acids was linked to a “32 per cent reduced risk of breast cancer, according to the findings published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention“  The reduction was in the most common type of breast cancer, invasive ductal carcinoma.

Seems the anti-inflammatory properties of Omega-3’s was the key to the prevention.  Since inflammation causes cells to divide, and when cells divide there is an opportunity for genetic errors and those errors lead to cancer according to Dr. White.   Harvard University is launching a major clinical trial to access Omega-3’s.

OmegaGuard

Now remember a previous post that referred to the findings that some Omega 3’s had high amounts of contaminants, but that there is one source for pure Omega 3’s.  Shaklee Corporation’s OmegaGuard is:

Ultrapure and Pharmaceutical Grade
OmegaGuard is made with a proprietary, triple molecular distillation process that concentrates the natural beneficial omega-3 fatty acids while removing harmful compounds like mercury and lead that are found in many types of fish.

World’s Finest Fish Oil
Contains a full spectrum of seven naturally occurring omega-3 fatty acids: EPA, DHA, ALA, and more. EPA benefits your heart and joints, while DHA is critical for brain development and function.*

  • Helps reduce the risk of heart disease†
  • Ultra pure, pharmaceutical grade, triple molecular distillation
  • World’s finest fish oil with full spectrum potency of seven omega-3s

One serving of OmegaGuard provides 905 mg of EBP & DHA Omega-3 fatty acids.

I just wonder what the results would have been if these women had been taking a Resveratrol product like Vivix?  Makes you wonder…

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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Posted in: Cancer, Healthy Home, Nutrition.
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Obesity, Diabetes and Hypertension in US Population

Jun 21st, 2010
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In results from recent NAHANES studies by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it was noted that over one-third of the population over age 20 has a chronic health problem. Some are diagnosed while others remain un-diagnosed. Obesity, Hypertension and Diabetes, high Cholesterol were found to be increasing.  These diseases are life threatening  and are associated with cardiovascular disease.  A high percentage are preventable using diet, exercise and wise supplementation.  Prevention is something we can all practice.

The key findings were listed as:

*  Forty-five percent of adults had at least one of three diagnosed or undiagnosed chronic conditions—hypertension, hypercholesterolemia(high Cholesterol), or diabetes; one in eight adults (13%) had two of these conditions; and 3% of adults had all three chronic conditions.
* Nearly one in seven U.S. adults (15%) had one or more of these conditions undiagnosed.
* Non-Hispanic black persons were more likely than non-Hispanic white and Mexican-American persons to have at least one of the three conditions (diagnosed or undiagnosed).
* Non-Hispanic black and non-Hispanic white persons were more likely than Mexican-American persons to have both diagnosed or undiagnosed hypertension and hyper-cholesterolemia. Non-Hispanic black and Mexican-American persons were more likely than non-Hispanic white persons to have both diagnosed or undiagnosed hypertension and diabetes.

The study found race and ethnicity disparities in adult obesity.  “Among women in 2007–2008, non-Hispanic black women (49.6%) were significantly more likely to be obese than non-Hispanic white women (33.0%). Similarly, Mexican-American women (45.1%) were more likely to be obese than non-Hispanic white women (33.0%). Similar disparities existed in 1988–1994 (22.9% of non-Hispanic white women, 38.3% of non-Hispanic black women, and 35.3% of Mexican-American women were obese).”

Similar disparities were found among men as well with “non-Hispanic black men showing an increase in obesity at 37.3%, while Mexican American men had an increase to 35.9%  and non-Hispanic white men had an increase to 31.9% of the population.”  Use the links to both studies to find out more.  Remember to keep up the diet, exercise and good supplementation to be healthier!  Stay Well, Elise

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Posted in: Aging, Diabetes, Healthy You, Nutrition, Weight Management.
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Summer Preparations

Jun 12th, 2010
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Just how ready for Summer are you?  Summer is the time for extreme weather including tornadoes, hurricanes, severe thunder storms with thunder, lightning, hail and straight-line winds.  Summer is also a time for trips to the pool, beaches, local lakes and rivers, mountains, desert hikes, camping, climbing, sailing, fishing and so much more.  Summer is filled with activity.  It is our active time of the year.

But are you really ready for all this activity?  Have you gotten our homes ready for the coming storms?  Have you prepared our emergency kits in case of storm damage or power outages?  Getting homes and emergency kits ready for the possibility of storms and power outages is top of the list.  Have a supply of food, water, medicines, first aid supplies, pet food, water for all for 4 days or more, blankets, clean clothing, flashlights, candles, matches or lighters, batteries,radio, tools and more.  Having all you might need after a bad storm has displaced your family is necessary for survival.  Think ahead and prepare.  Takes a little time and planning on your part, but should a disaster strike, you and your family will be ready for the future.

Now that your emergency kit is packed, how ready are you for the sun and water fun?  Sunny day activities take a toll on your muscles and skin.  Remember to stay hydrated during those summer play activities.  Drink plenty of water before, during as well as after exercise in the summer heat.  And use sunscreen to avoid sunburns.  Apply often.  Wear a hat with a wide brim to protect your face.  Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.  Loose clothing of natural materials will keep you cooler.  Choose foods that keep your energy up with protein, avoiding caffeine when possible.   Have Fun! Elise

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Posted in: Healthy Home.
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Know what you are Eating

Jun 6th, 2010
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Pesticides and herbicides are used on non-organic fruits and vegetables to help the crop  have more product per acre.  However these same chemicals are not so good for the people who eat them.  The more we know about the effects of these commonly used pesticides and herbicides on people, them more I don’t want to eat them!  And you might want to do the same if you are concerned about the health of yourself and your family.

Strawberries

Dr. Andrew Weil has a partnership with the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a nonprofit organization that advocates for policies that protect global and individual health.  Dr. Weil has complied a list of fruits and vegetables that should be organic when purchased.

Vegetables

The List tested fruits and vegetables that had been washed as a family would normally wash produce.  These fruits and vegetables all have high levels of pesticides and herbicides and should be only purchased if organically farmed.  Included in his list of “dirty foods” are celery, peaches, strawberries, apples, blueberries(domestic), nectarines, sweet bell peppers, spinach, collard greens/kale, cherries, potatoes and grapes (imported).   To learn more about these “dirty” fruits and vegetables, check out Dr. Weil’s articles.

Always wash your fruits and vegetables before preparation and eating!  Buy local and organi whenever possible.  Keeping yourself and your family healthy takes a little more planning, but is easier than being sick!  Stay Well, Elise!

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Posted in: Green Home, Healthy Home, Healthy You.
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CDC’s New Indoor Air Policy

May 22nd, 2010
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a policy on indoor air policy for all its buildings whether owned, leased or rented.  According to the CDC:  “This policy establishes guidance and procedures to protect and maintain safe indoor environmental quality (IEQ) and guidelines for reporting and investigating complaints. This policy applies to all CDC workers (employees, contractors, guest researchers, etc.) at all CDC facilities, both leased and owned, and all CDC work areas including animal facilities.”

CDC in Atlanta

The CDC Policy further states:  “CDC will ensure that products used in the workplace, such as soaps, cleaning products, paints, etc. are safe and odor-free or emit low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to the fullest extent feasible. Only Green Cleaning Products shall be specified and used within CDC facilities and leased spaces unless otherwise approved by the Office of Health and Safety.”

The CDC Indoor Environmental Quality also has rules for personal fragrances and more.  The policy includes a list of Non-Permissible Products:

“Non-Permissible Products:  Scented or fragranced products are prohibited at all times in all interior space owned, rented, or leased by CDC. This includes the use of: Incense, candles, or reed diffusers; Fragrance-emitting devices of any kind;  Wall-mounted devices, similar to fragrance-emitting devices, that operate automatically or by pushing a button to dispense deodorizers or disinfectants;   Potpourri;  Plug-in or spray air fresheners;  Urinal or toilet blocks;  Other fragranced deodorizer/re-odorizer products.

Personal care products (e.g. colognes, perfumes, essential oils, scented skin and hair products) should not be applied at or near actual workstations, restrooms, or anywhere in CDC owned or leased buildings.

In addition, CDC encourages employees to be as fragrance-free as possible when they arrive in the workplace. Fragrance is not appropriate for a professional work environment, and the use of some products with fragrance may be detrimental to the health of workers with chemical sensitivities, allergies, asthma, and chronic headaches/migraines.”

As you can see, Green Cleaning Products, Natural and Organic Hair Care Products, Shower Gels and Body Lotions, Skin Care Products,  Laundry Products and Daily Personal Products are the options available to comply with the new policy.  The company that was the first Company in the World to be Climate Neutral Certified has the products you need.  Stay Well!  Elise

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Posted in: Green Home, Healhy Workplace, Healthy Home, Healthy You.
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An Alzheimers Journey

Apr 26th, 2010
by admin.
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I have not done any testimonies on this blog, but I had to share this with everyone who will listen, read and learn.  I know the daughter-in-law of Elsie, so I have heard Elsie’s story first hand.  When the family decided to share their story, I had to pass it on!  This gives such hope to those of us with aging parents, grandparents and ourselves!  As you read this, think of those in your life that are in a similar position.

‘Elsie’s Journey From Alzheimers
Our Mom[Elsie] had become bed-ridden, wore diapers and seldom recognized family or friends.  We bathed, dressed and fed her.  She was diagnosed the beginning of the worst stage of Alzheimers.
Mom was prescribed Aricept and slept for 7 months.  Next they prescribed Exelon, another 3 months of sleeping.  Were Alzeimers drugs meant to keep patients sedated?  Then came Nameda, Mom became violently ill, lay in bed in pain and lost 30 pounds in less than 30 days.
We decided to stop all medications and get her on a Shaklee Supplement program to give her body the benefits of health.  She took VitaLea Gold, Memory Optimizer, HerbLax, Energizing Soy Protein and Optiflora.  Within a few weeks she started getting up on her own and showing improvements.  Then Shaklee introduced a new product, Vivix[Cellular Anti-Aging Tonic, a resveratrol based supplement].
Within a few weeks of adding Vivix Mom began recognizing family members, she remembers all her children again.  She can brush her teeth, wash and dress herself, and no longer wears diapers.  She does the dishes and sweeps the patio. When we shop she has conversations with other people.  She plays with her great grandchildren, many songs and rhymes she didn’t remember before she now sings and recites to them.  Her long term memory has returned, though not perfect, and has selective short term memory.  Today Mom is stage 1-2 Alzheimers.
A few times when we forgot to give her the supplement or when the Vivix wasn’t available she became listless and confused.  Not only is that stressful for Mom, but it makes it difficult for us as caregivers.  We now see to it that we ample supply and it always travels with us.
Thankfully, Judy, Sandy and Bill K”

Now that should lift your spirits! The function of high quality Natural Nutrition cannot be underplayed in our quest for better health.  Prevention is the way to approach aging and with vigilance we can have a healthy aging process.  Stay Well! Elise

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Posted in: Aging, Healthy You, Nutrition, Resveratrol.
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Coping with Stress

Apr 19th, 2010
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Stress is one of those words that keeps making headlines.  We are all faced with stress each day. Dealing with the kids, the pets, what to wear, driving to work, catching a plane, or making pans for any kind of social gathering, and even watching the news causes stress.  Stress is the little gift that keeps on giving!

According to WebDM, your body responds to stress as if you were in danger.  The flight or fight response that is left over from our origins kicks in with lots of hormones that increase our heart rate, our breathing increases and we have a burst of energy.  Normally we would either stay and fight the cause of this stress or we would run, hence the flight part.  This can be good if we are coming to a deadline, or finishing a race or an important task.

We are designed to handle stress, but with breaks in between instances.  However, if this stress lingers, is not resolved, our bodies are still in the fight or flight mode and those hormones keep on coming.  Cortisol is released in our bodies to repair the damage caused by the stress.  Ongoing release of cortisol ends in this cortisol being stored in fat tissue around our middle section, otherwise known as belly fat.
Belly fat is not easy to get rid of.  Exercise does not really remove it all, so the natural solution is to prevent it from building.  Exercise helps, but not having ongoing stress helps more.  Our reaction to stress is important.  We need to work out every day. We need to laugh each day and do something fun not just repetition! Do what you enjoy in your work out. Walking, dancing, running, boxing, Wii fit and gyms are all options for reducing stress.  Change your routine every few days.

In addition to exercise, play and laughter, we need to maintain proper nutrition levels.  Eat well, not junk food.  Eat in moderation, not junk food! Use your natural supplements so you body has the fuel it requires to recover from the bangs and bumps of exercise.  All this will help you get the rest your need.

Our need of good sleep is a major way of recovering from daily stress.  Exercise combined with good nutrition will aid our sleep so we are truly rested and our bodies are repaired, ready to face a new day and less stress!
Smile, laugh, have fun, sleep.  A good plan to stay well!

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Posted in: Healthy You, Nutrition, heart health.
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Pollen–Friend or Foe?

Apr 9th, 2010
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Yes, I know.  Your car is now greeny-yellow, your nose is running, your eyes are watering, your head is aching, and so forth.  After a cold winter, we are having a pollen filled Spring.  Very Pollen Filled!

Even though the pollen counts are High, they are  not  record highs.  However, the different pollens are overlaping this year. Usually pollens come at different intervals.  But this year we have pine, oak, juniper and birch pollens at the same time.

Tree pollens should be gone in a few weeks, but then new pollens will enter the picture!  Grass and then weeds will start adding their pollens to the already sneezing noses.  Oh my, here we go again.

Some pollens, like Pine pollen, is in the air and all over the cars, porches, patios and such.  But the pine pollen is too big to float around and get into our noses.  Pine pollen tends to fall straight to the ground or onto cars.

But Pollen makes it possible for us to have honey, flowers, fruits and vegetables.  Pollen is a good thing since eating and having trees for shade is very important!

So stay inside when possible especially during the middle of the day, use air conditioners with clean filters to minimize exposure and be happy for the rain that cleans the air.  Stay Well.

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Posted in: Allergies, Children, Healthy Home, Healthy You.

Diabetes and Resveratrol

Mar 19th, 2010
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In a recent article in Diabetes Forecast, Resveratrol has been found helpful in several ways for those with Diabetes.  In a summary of the article from Endocrinology: “Resveratrol, a chemical found in red wine, has received a lot of attention because of studies that suggest it (or related drugs) could someday help treat diabetes and other diseases. Yet scientists aren’t sure how resveratrol imparts its benefits. Now, a study has found that resveratrol’s anti-diabetic activity may come straight from the top: the brain. Lab mice on an all-you-can-eat diet tend to develop diabetes. But when researchers delivered resveratrol directly into the brains of mice with diet-induced diabetes, their blood glucose levels dropped regardless of diet or weight. The findings suggest that resveratrol may work by interacting with receptors in the brain that control insulin and glucose levels.”  This is from Endocrinology, December 2009

In another article from an Australian researcher from Queensland, Dr.Lindsay Brown of the University of Queensland School of Biomedical Sciences, and colleagues conclude that resveratrol may help protect against a wide array of diseases and conditions.  “The breadth of benefits is remarkable – cancer prevention, protection of the heart and brain from damage, reducing age-related diseases such as inflammation, reversing diabetes and obesity, and many more” said Brown.
This is good news for those with Diabetes since resveratrol is available in natural supplements like Shaklee’s Vivix Cellular Anti-Aging Tonic.  Shaklee Scientists sourced the purest and most potent natural resveratrol. In fact, this extract’s resveratrol content is no less than 98%, and the amount of resveratrol found in Vivix is guided by the latest scientific studies and emerging research.  Also, Shaklee processes the resveratrol in such a way as to not have the bad side affect of diarrhea often associated with some resveratrol products.

In Laboratory Studies, Vivix Ingredients*:   * Help protect and repair cellular DNA, * Positively impact genetic regulators,  * Promote mitochondrial biogenesis,  * Slow AGE protein formation.
ALSO*:  Supports heart health and cardiovascular function, Supports brain health , Supports immune function, Supports joint health, Promotes cellular longevity, Promotes good health and well-being, Supplies antioxidants; fights free radicals, Increases cellular energy.
Stay Well, Elise
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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Posted in: Children, Diabetes, Healthy You, Nutrition, Resveratrol, Weight Management.
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