I have a sweet tooth, a really BIG sweet tooth. It used to be so bad that I could put away a gallon of "Light" ice cream without blinking (the thought of it now makes me sick to my stomach). My point is, once I put sugar into my mouth, I couldn't concentrate until I could get another bite in....and so the painful cycle began. Things got better when I moved in with my now husband, because he could at least distract me from the sugar cravings. After my son was born, I was spoiled with an increased metabolism and got re-hooked on having sweets on a regular basis because I could get away with it. But as I began to find alternatives to cooking with flour, I discovered a world of healthier baking and cooking. A world that used no gluten, no dairy, a rare egg or two, and no refined sugars. Because I love to bake, I was willing to try any new recipe, but secretly I was wondering how on earth something could taste good without sugar. Little did I know about what I was going to discover...
Maple Syrup: You have to use the real stuff, none of that pancake syrup loaded with high fructose corn syrup. Grade B is the best and offers a higher mineral content that refined sugar and also contains low levels of anti-oxidants. One of the minerals is manganese, which supports overall body function and lowers trigylceride levels. Zinc acts as both a mineral and antioxidant and strengthens the heart by repairing and replenishing endothelial cells. Together, Manganese and Zinc support the immune system (they are also both important for male reproductive health).
Stevia: I have always been skeptical of Stevia, just as I have been skeptical of Splenda and Nutrasweet, but turns out it is rather quite safe and been around for forever. It comes from the Stevia plant and is available in liquid or powder form. I have mainly used Stevia in my cookie and banana bread recipes and really like the added sweetness it gives baked goods that are made without refined sugars. I have also occasionally thrown it into a smoothie that I can't get quite sweet enough.
Honey (especially raw honey): Raw honey is anti-fungal, antibacterial, and anti-viral. Raw honey also contains many anti-cancer fighting properties, phytonutrients, and anti-tumor properties. When raw honey is extensively heated, it's amazing properties disappear, so try for the raw varieties when you can. There are so many local beekeepers here in the PNW, so look to buy local on this if you can.
Coconut Sugar (or palm sugar): this is a great substitute when you can't substitute liquid sweeteners for dry; I use it in a 1:1 substitution for brown sugar in my cookies. Palm sugar is definitely not as sweet as sugar and will give your baked goods a dark hue, but it won't raise your blood sugar like refined sugars do. Don't make the assumption, like I did, that if palm sugar is a healthier option that palm oil is too; as far as I can tell, it's not and it is better to stay away from palm oil when you can.
Brown Rice Syrup: This is a great alternative to sugar and one that I love using in my banana bread. It is not really that sweet to the taste, but when baked, creates a nice subtly sweetness that makes baked goods yummy. If you stay away from gluten, make sure you find a gluten-free variety as some brands are made with barley.
Agave: I saved this one for last because I recently changed how I feel about this sweetener. It is touted as being a great alternative to sugar because it doesn't raise your blood sugar like white sugar does. I recently found out that agave has higher levels of fructose than high fructose corn syrup. Granted, it is not processed or fake like HFCS is, but such high levels of fructose can be hard on our bodies. I will still use agave (made from the same plant as tequila), but I'm not using it as much, and trying to use raw honey more.
Since discovering and only using these sweeteners, my sweet tooth has diminished. I still love my sweets at the end of the day, but I don't feel out of control like I can't get enough, and I feel very satisfied with a much smaller serving. Additionally, when I now eat something that has processed sugar, it tastes WAY too sweet and is unappetizing. I thought that would NEVER happen!
Let me know if you have any questions about using these sweeteners.
Showing posts with label health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label health. Show all posts
Friday, September 16, 2011
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
The Hidden (but maybe not so hidden) Dangers of French Fries
Okay, so we all know that french fries are not the healthiest option when it comes to food. But we still LOVE them! Even I, who stays away from greasy, fried foods 99% of the time, is so deeply tempted by french fries on my hubby's plate, that I have to at least try one (or five), ya know, just to make sure they taste good. Well I stumbled across an article on the hidden dangers in this beloved food. It's called acrylamide (sounds healthy, doesn't it?) In my research for this blog, I have to say that for once, the FDA has taken an appropriate stance on this. Acrylamide is found in foods that are cooked at 280 degree Fahrenheit and greater. Sadly, potato chips and french fries were found to have the highest concentration of this chemical because it is created during high heat baking, roasting, and frying (cigarette smoke is the other big producer--sad to have such popular food lumped in with nasty cigarette smoke). It is also produced industrially for products such as grout and plastics, but it also to make cosmetics (here's my blog on safe cosmetics) At this link, you can find out how it's produced, since I'm going to focus on why it's so awful for us. Acrylamide is regulated in our water system by the EPA to keep it to a safe amount. Wait...hold up. A safe amount? This is a chemical that has links to cancer, and there's a safe amount? And now I'm back to why I despise most of our government programs. Here's my blog on safe water for more information on that. But sad news for the FDA is this: although they took a stance on this chemical and even held some meetings dating back to 2002 through 2005, they never seemed to come to a conclusion as to what to do (according to their website). There was no widespread release of this information. (Did you hear about it? I didn't...) This was a Swedish Study that began the whole discussion years ago. From the FDA:
On April 24, 2002, researchers at the Swedish National Food Administration and Stockholm University reported finding the chemical acrylamide in a variety of fried and oven-baked foods. The initial Swedish research indicated that acrylamide formation is particularly associated with traditional high temperature cooking processes for certain carbohydrate-rich foods. In response to concerns about the potential risk of foodborne acrylamide based on the known toxicity of acrylamide at much higher doses than those seen in foods, the FDA began to analyze a variety of U.S. food products for acrylamide.
But guess what, no company has to disclose that acrylamide is present in their product...why? Because it's a by-product of processing, not an ingredient (here we go again with why I hate the FDA). This is just another reason why, as a country, we need to get back to our roots and return to eating whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible). Acrylamide can be absorbed through skin, breathing in, or consuming foods. Remember that "regulated water"? 60% of what comes in contact with our skin gets absorbed into our blood stream, so with every shower you are absorbing minute amounts into your body. Another reason to "go green" and shorten your showers (shh...don't tell my husband I said that).
Okay, so back to why this chemical is so awful for us:
Several animal studies have linked it to cancer; albeit in high doses, but there hasn't been any tests at lower doses and who knows exactly how much is a "high dose" let alone how much we're actually exposed to on a regular basis. There was one human study that resulted in a "positive association" between acrylamide in food and breast cancer.
"The findings show a positive association between an increased acrylamide-haemoglobin level and the development of breast cancer after adjustment for smoking behaviour. The risk of breast cancer doubles with a tenfold increase in the acrylamide-haemoglobin level. A tenfold increase in the acrylamide-haemoglobin level corresponds more or less to the difference measured between the women with the lowest and highest exposure. The study also shows a stronger association for estrogen receptor positive breast cancer."
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/01/080111231742.htm
So what can we do? Well, for one, avoid fried foods when you can, and of course, don't smoke! But acrylamide also hides in unusual places...I wanted to paste the table the FDA created that lists out the foods and the amount of this chemical that is present in them, but it was just too long. But I STRONGLY encourage you to view this link. Here's just a few of the hidden places acrylamide is lurking: Gerber baby food (even their organic brands), Enfamil Formula, Similac Formula (among other brands), Beech Nut baby foods, Boca Burgers, every brand of potato chip, General Mills and Kellogg's Cereals, certain brands of soy sauce, roasted and smoked almonds (certain brands), Ghirardelli's unsweetened cocoa, Libby's canned pumpkin, and just about every brand of coffee...
I could go on and on, but I'll let you skim through it, as it is truly disappointing. So many "healthy" processed foods were on there, which bummed me out.
The moral of the story, be very careful of what you eat. It will be impossible to avoid this chemical all together unless you are on a raw diet, so moderation is key.
Here's to healthy eating!
On April 24, 2002, researchers at the Swedish National Food Administration and Stockholm University reported finding the chemical acrylamide in a variety of fried and oven-baked foods. The initial Swedish research indicated that acrylamide formation is particularly associated with traditional high temperature cooking processes for certain carbohydrate-rich foods. In response to concerns about the potential risk of foodborne acrylamide based on the known toxicity of acrylamide at much higher doses than those seen in foods, the FDA began to analyze a variety of U.S. food products for acrylamide.
But guess what, no company has to disclose that acrylamide is present in their product...why? Because it's a by-product of processing, not an ingredient (here we go again with why I hate the FDA). This is just another reason why, as a country, we need to get back to our roots and return to eating whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible). Acrylamide can be absorbed through skin, breathing in, or consuming foods. Remember that "regulated water"? 60% of what comes in contact with our skin gets absorbed into our blood stream, so with every shower you are absorbing minute amounts into your body. Another reason to "go green" and shorten your showers (shh...don't tell my husband I said that).
Okay, so back to why this chemical is so awful for us:
Several animal studies have linked it to cancer; albeit in high doses, but there hasn't been any tests at lower doses and who knows exactly how much is a "high dose" let alone how much we're actually exposed to on a regular basis. There was one human study that resulted in a "positive association" between acrylamide in food and breast cancer.
"The findings show a positive association between an increased acrylamide-haemoglobin level and the development of breast cancer after adjustment for smoking behaviour. The risk of breast cancer doubles with a tenfold increase in the acrylamide-haemoglobin level. A tenfold increase in the acrylamide-haemoglobin level corresponds more or less to the difference measured between the women with the lowest and highest exposure. The study also shows a stronger association for estrogen receptor positive breast cancer."
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/01/080111231742.htm
So what can we do? Well, for one, avoid fried foods when you can, and of course, don't smoke! But acrylamide also hides in unusual places...I wanted to paste the table the FDA created that lists out the foods and the amount of this chemical that is present in them, but it was just too long. But I STRONGLY encourage you to view this link. Here's just a few of the hidden places acrylamide is lurking: Gerber baby food (even their organic brands), Enfamil Formula, Similac Formula (among other brands), Beech Nut baby foods, Boca Burgers, every brand of potato chip, General Mills and Kellogg's Cereals, certain brands of soy sauce, roasted and smoked almonds (certain brands), Ghirardelli's unsweetened cocoa, Libby's canned pumpkin, and just about every brand of coffee...
I could go on and on, but I'll let you skim through it, as it is truly disappointing. So many "healthy" processed foods were on there, which bummed me out.
The moral of the story, be very careful of what you eat. It will be impossible to avoid this chemical all together unless you are on a raw diet, so moderation is key.
Here's to healthy eating!
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
A New Way To "Farm" Fish
Early this week, my parents, my hubby, and the little one headed up to Redfish Lake for the afternoon and to enjoy an early dinner at the wonderful restaurant at the lodge. Two of the menu items were for salmon (one of my favorite foods), but before ordering, I had to find out if the fish were farmed (bad!!) or wild caught (less bad!). The waitress reported that the salmon was ocean farmed. What? I had not heard of this, so I knew immediately that I had some research to do.
Ocean farmed fish means that the fish were raised in their native waters, but caged in. They feed on their normal food but are protected from prey. NPR wrote a great article (they are not always my favorite news source, but they did a good job here) that addresses the specifics ("farms" occur many miles from the coast to lessen the environmental impact than typical farms) but also the controversy regarding the fact that the fish that are being farmed are major predators and that breeding them in captivity puts stress on the ecosystem.
The drive behind this new wave of farming is that demand for fish has increased so dramatically in the last few years that the natural supply can no longer keep up with the demand. This is a fairly new practice of raising fish and seems like it would have the same concerns (albeit very few) as wild caught fish (mercury is still a concern even in wild fish). Until we have some research assess the mercury content of these fish, I'd say that they are okay to eat in moderation (like on a very special night out). I will however, continue to only buy fish at my local PCC because they actually test for mercury in all the fish they sell, so that I can rest assured that the levels are zero.
Ocean farmed fish means that the fish were raised in their native waters, but caged in. They feed on their normal food but are protected from prey. NPR wrote a great article (they are not always my favorite news source, but they did a good job here) that addresses the specifics ("farms" occur many miles from the coast to lessen the environmental impact than typical farms) but also the controversy regarding the fact that the fish that are being farmed are major predators and that breeding them in captivity puts stress on the ecosystem. 
The drive behind this new wave of farming is that demand for fish has increased so dramatically in the last few years that the natural supply can no longer keep up with the demand. This is a fairly new practice of raising fish and seems like it would have the same concerns (albeit very few) as wild caught fish (mercury is still a concern even in wild fish). Until we have some research assess the mercury content of these fish, I'd say that they are okay to eat in moderation (like on a very special night out). I will however, continue to only buy fish at my local PCC because they actually test for mercury in all the fish they sell, so that I can rest assured that the levels are zero. Thursday, August 11, 2011
Lymphatic Vacuum Massage....say what?!?!?
Okay, so I had the craziest thing done to me the other day (at the encouraging of my mom...). I had lymphatic vacuum massage, otherwise known as Vacumie. If you have read my previous posts, you know my frustration with my face (I mean, I'm 29 years old and I'm struggling with acne?!?! Really!?!?!). Well, my mom works with a reflexologist in Sun Valley who also uses a vacuuming technique (similar to cupping which is an old healing method used for thousands of years all over the world) that stimulates the lymphatic system. Her hopes are that if we empty the toxins from my body, it can help my skin heal itself. The lymphatic systems aides in the immune system in destroying pathogens and filtering waste, removes excess fluid, waste, debris, dead blood cells, pathogens, cancer cells, and toxins from these cells and the tissue spaces between then, and it works with the circulatory system to deliver nutrients, oxygen and hormones from the blood to the cells that make up the tissues of the body. So with that knowledge in hand, I walked into this appointment not having a clue what was coming my way...
Oh yes, it's really a suction machine. And by that I mean it literally sucks up your skin...craziest thing I've ever seen! The idea is that because fat cells store toxins the movement of the vacuum over the skin helps to break up the fat cells as well as bring blood to the cells to help temporarily increase circulation to help flush out the toxins into the lymph so that they can be excreted from the body. An added bonus?? It helps with the dreaded cellulite!! Woot-woot! (Cellulite is hardened fat cells)...Well, except that you have to do it somewhat frequently (which the Larson budget does not allow for). The whole procedure took two hours and was not relaxing in the least (in case you were wondering).
I'm not sure if it will work (it's not an immediate fix), but I will tell you that it made me break out a bit in weird spots on my face, so maybe that means it is pulling out toxins? Not sure, but it was a cool experience. Here's a video if you are more curious about it. This service is offered everywhere, just Google it, you won't believe how common it is in spas and in naturopathic facilities.
Let me know if you have tried it or have questions :)
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Big Pharm
As a country, we are more reliant on pharmaceuticals (i.e. drugs) than ever and yet we're sicker than ever! A connection? Probably. There is a ton of new information emerging about how the drug companies are actually behind creating the reasons for these drugs (it always comes back to money). If you read my post of the American Cancer Society, you know I'm a bit of conspiracy theorist, but only when well-founded. There are drugs for everything from depression to anxiety to diabetes, etc. And many of them have un-researched interactions with the potential to have dangerous side effects. Did you know that several research studies have found that exercise is as effective as the leading drug in fighting moderate depression? And so many of the "diseases" that drugs are aimed at fixing could be cured with healthy eating, exercise, and weight loss? Don't even get me started on how over-medicated our kids are. There is a bunch of research out stating that kids with ADD/ADHD actually have significant improvements in behavior and attention span when they eat a healthy, whole foods diet (read: low in sugar) and get adequate exercise (and sleep too!), yet our doctors continue to medicate these children. Why don't we take the time to educate parents on a healthy diet for their children? I get so frustrated by how much of a "fix-it now" society we are (although I'm super guilty of this too), that we don't take the time to take care of ourselves. Instead, we turn to our doctors to fix us. History tells us that we won't even know the dangers of many of these drugs until after they've been on the market for a long time (because the FDA does no long term research on these guys). I'm blogging about this just to put the bug in your ear. I'm not saying that there aren't legitimate reasons for prescription and OTC drugs. I just want to help all of us be more aware of what we are putting in our bodies and to realize that our doctors do not know all. Do not be afraid to ask questions, ask for second opinions, and alternate therapies.
http://www.pharmedout.org/
http://www.doctoroz.com/overdosed-america
I apologize for this blunt post, but I am so tired and the words are beginning to run together :) Ah, how life has changed after baby...
http://www.pharmedout.org/
http://www.doctoroz.com/overdosed-america
I apologize for this blunt post, but I am so tired and the words are beginning to run together :) Ah, how life has changed after baby...
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Sugar: Friend or Foe?
Well, if you ask me at the end of a long work day on Friday, I'd say Friend! However, by Saturday morning I'll be lamenting that sugar binge. Throughout Lent, I gave up the processed type of sugar, the kind you find in jelly beans and candy bars. I wasn't able to give up the sugar in homemade treats, but I figure that it's less processed and organic, so I feel less guilty about it. With the arrival of Easter, I was able to enjoy the pure delight in opening a bag of Starburst Jelly Beans, reserved only for the spring. My husband went through our eggs, eating the candy out of them one by one. Ah, sweet joy!
Oh, sweet, short-lived joy....within minutes I began to feel sick and utterly nauseous. I hadn't even eaten that many jelly beans. And really, they didn't taste as good as I remembered. My body was screaming at me, STOP! While my head kept telling me push through it, they will start to taste better and that gross feeling will go away. Well, I stopped because I began to feel like I'd gained 10lbs just after that mini binge.
Over the next few days, as the Easter candy has been slowly diminishing, I noticed that it took eating more and more to get to that same gross feeling as I felt on that Easter Day. Hmmmm...Another interesting tid-bit is that my interest in eating fruit, really yummy sweet fruit totally diminished. I eat an apple every day and love mango and strawberries with my breakfast. But during the days since eating the processed sugar again, my taste buds weren't satisfied by the natural sugar. All I craved was the processed crap. Here again is proof to me that sugar is addictive and that sugar (HFCS or not), can change what you crave. Additionally, I believe that the more you eat this type of food, the more you want it. Processed food is chemically designed this way.
Fructose is the number one source of calories in American diets. It's cheap and makes food taste extra sweet, so it's therefore in nearly every processed product you can find. (A side note: now that many people are starting to avoid high fructose corn syrup, many companies are beginning to use palm oil, which is NOT a healthier alternative, and may be just as awful as HFCS). Many will say "Everything in moderation," but this may not be the way to go with sugar. The use of fructose as an additive to foods corresponds directly with the increase in diabetes and obesity in this country, but I'll let you draw your own conclusions.
Sugar may in fact be linked to even cancer. I remember way back when I started seeing my naturopath and I learned about how sugar can create an environment in your cells that promotes abnormal cell growth (which is why changing your diet is so crucial if you are diagnosed with cancer). The cells of human cancers, according to Dr. Taubes (who I LOVE), rely on insulin to survive and grow, which is produced when you eat an excess of sugar (and although I dislike white bread products, a calorie of sugar from them is glucose, which our bodies metabolize differently than fructose). There is reason to believe then, that pre-cancerous cells may never become cancerous if there is no insulin present for them to feed on. And as if you needed another reason to get rid of the soda, when our bodies metabolize the fructose in liquids, the result is compounded. Another reason to forgo the sugar. (I also found out reading about this that Vitamin water has a TON of sugar!)
Sadly, fructose is found in some fresh fruits. However, you can keep your fructose levels low by only eating fresh fruits and forgoing the processed foods.
A few placed to be careful about finding sugar: ketchup, salad dressings, and even mustard. There are so many more, but the mustard surprised me! We've now switched to a mustard that is not made with sugar or any sweeteners (and my husband has no clue) :)
I also want to make a note about sweeteners. These are just as bad for you as sugar. They also can alter your taste buds because they are sweeter than sugar. Eventually you end up needing more and more to meet your fix, and as I mentioned before, you'll begin to appreciate naturally sweet foods less. (I also think the same argument goes for when people complain they don't like the taste of water--stop eating soda and sweetened drinks and pretty soon you're taste buds will get back to normal and water should start tasting good again). They are also incredibly toxic to our bodies. It has been linked to cancer and premature birth. If you have more questions (or don't believe me) please read this two articles which spell out the research on this issue. http://aspartame.mercola.com/; http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2010/09/15/aspartame-side-effects.aspx
Another thing that just astounded me, is that infant formula can be up to 50% sugar (from corn syrup solids, gross!) This is just APPALLING to me! How can we be giving this crap to our babies! No wonder obesity is on the rise...we are altering our babies taste buds from the get-go! Make sure you read your labels and try to find one that is low sugar (and if you do, let me know so I can pass on the word).
I could go on and on and on, but I won't. Your time is precious and I need to get a few more things done before the little guy gets up. All three articles below are worth a read, but they are long. Take the challenge: give up the sugar. We are trying it in our house. We're not going cold turkey, but we're really trying to reduce how much we eat. Join us :)
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/05/02/is-sugar-toxic.aspx
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/17/magazine/mag-17Sugar-t.html?_r=1
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2010/01/26/sugar-may-be-bad-but-this-sweetener-is-far-more-deadly-part-2.aspx
Oh, sweet, short-lived joy....within minutes I began to feel sick and utterly nauseous. I hadn't even eaten that many jelly beans. And really, they didn't taste as good as I remembered. My body was screaming at me, STOP! While my head kept telling me push through it, they will start to taste better and that gross feeling will go away. Well, I stopped because I began to feel like I'd gained 10lbs just after that mini binge.
Over the next few days, as the Easter candy has been slowly diminishing, I noticed that it took eating more and more to get to that same gross feeling as I felt on that Easter Day. Hmmmm...Another interesting tid-bit is that my interest in eating fruit, really yummy sweet fruit totally diminished. I eat an apple every day and love mango and strawberries with my breakfast. But during the days since eating the processed sugar again, my taste buds weren't satisfied by the natural sugar. All I craved was the processed crap. Here again is proof to me that sugar is addictive and that sugar (HFCS or not), can change what you crave. Additionally, I believe that the more you eat this type of food, the more you want it. Processed food is chemically designed this way.
Fructose is the number one source of calories in American diets. It's cheap and makes food taste extra sweet, so it's therefore in nearly every processed product you can find. (A side note: now that many people are starting to avoid high fructose corn syrup, many companies are beginning to use palm oil, which is NOT a healthier alternative, and may be just as awful as HFCS). Many will say "Everything in moderation," but this may not be the way to go with sugar. The use of fructose as an additive to foods corresponds directly with the increase in diabetes and obesity in this country, but I'll let you draw your own conclusions.
Sugar may in fact be linked to even cancer. I remember way back when I started seeing my naturopath and I learned about how sugar can create an environment in your cells that promotes abnormal cell growth (which is why changing your diet is so crucial if you are diagnosed with cancer). The cells of human cancers, according to Dr. Taubes (who I LOVE), rely on insulin to survive and grow, which is produced when you eat an excess of sugar (and although I dislike white bread products, a calorie of sugar from them is glucose, which our bodies metabolize differently than fructose). There is reason to believe then, that pre-cancerous cells may never become cancerous if there is no insulin present for them to feed on. And as if you needed another reason to get rid of the soda, when our bodies metabolize the fructose in liquids, the result is compounded. Another reason to forgo the sugar. (I also found out reading about this that Vitamin water has a TON of sugar!)
Sadly, fructose is found in some fresh fruits. However, you can keep your fructose levels low by only eating fresh fruits and forgoing the processed foods.
A few placed to be careful about finding sugar: ketchup, salad dressings, and even mustard. There are so many more, but the mustard surprised me! We've now switched to a mustard that is not made with sugar or any sweeteners (and my husband has no clue) :)
I also want to make a note about sweeteners. These are just as bad for you as sugar. They also can alter your taste buds because they are sweeter than sugar. Eventually you end up needing more and more to meet your fix, and as I mentioned before, you'll begin to appreciate naturally sweet foods less. (I also think the same argument goes for when people complain they don't like the taste of water--stop eating soda and sweetened drinks and pretty soon you're taste buds will get back to normal and water should start tasting good again). They are also incredibly toxic to our bodies. It has been linked to cancer and premature birth. If you have more questions (or don't believe me) please read this two articles which spell out the research on this issue. http://aspartame.mercola.com/; http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2010/09/15/aspartame-side-effects.aspx
Another thing that just astounded me, is that infant formula can be up to 50% sugar (from corn syrup solids, gross!) This is just APPALLING to me! How can we be giving this crap to our babies! No wonder obesity is on the rise...we are altering our babies taste buds from the get-go! Make sure you read your labels and try to find one that is low sugar (and if you do, let me know so I can pass on the word).
I could go on and on and on, but I won't. Your time is precious and I need to get a few more things done before the little guy gets up. All three articles below are worth a read, but they are long. Take the challenge: give up the sugar. We are trying it in our house. We're not going cold turkey, but we're really trying to reduce how much we eat. Join us :)
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/05/02/is-sugar-toxic.aspx
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/17/magazine/mag-17Sugar-t.html?_r=1
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2010/01/26/sugar-may-be-bad-but-this-sweetener-is-far-more-deadly-part-2.aspx
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
I'm tackling a very personal subject this morning. I'm not sure how many of you know this about me, but after years of frustration, I was diagnosed with PCOS in the fall of 2006. A little background: I was a late bloomer, but when I finally starting menstruating at the age of 15, I had the most painful cramps, so much so that I couldn't go to school because I was hurled over in pain. My doctor had me on a medication that helped briefly, but within a few months, it no longer did the trick. So before I headed off for college in 2000, I was put on birth control, which was supposed to help. And it did. And it helped clear up my skin. I was a new person and so happy. Ah, but it was short lived. By the time I was a sophomore, I was frustrated with weight gain that just wouldn't go away, despite playing on a D1 college tennis team and doing additional 90 minute workouts on my own to try and lose the weight. I even weight through a period where I ate very little and tried weight loss pills. And although this was successful for me losing 20lbs, it didn't last long, because I started getting sick while on the pills and so discontinued them. I went rogue and took myself off the birth control, afraid that was what was causing my weight to be sky high. Within a week, I felt like a cloud had been lifted. I hadn't lost any weight, but I didn't feel depressed about it and I wasn't as crabby, and didn't have the mood swings I had been experiencing over the past several years. But after six months, I still didn't have my period return, so I started to freak out and put myself back on birth control. Almost the next day, I started feeling cranky, I got headaches, and felt soooo bloated. I didn't stay on them very long. I consulted with my doctor and another doctor while I home that summer who both wanted to put me on birth control to get my cycle to return. The second doctor I saw offered a low hormone pill that would result in less side effects (although both of them told me that the side effects I was describing were not often connected to the pill--this is the point in my life where I began to really question mainstream medicine). I went back on the low hormone pill with hesitancy, and sure enough, within a month, I was back to feeling like crap. So I was done. No more birth control for me.
As I started my physical therapy program in Tacoma, WA, I began to decline even more. Yes, I was in the city with the highest rate of depression and suicide, but I was in such a funk. I couldn't focus. I couldn't study. I couldn't retain any information. And I was SO depressed. I wasn't myself, but I couldn't figure it out. I figured I just wasn't as smart as I thought I was and that's why I was struggling so much.
Then I had a moment of divine intervention. I was at my first summer internship the summer of 2006 and overheard one of my clinical instructors talking to another staff member about how after her first baby was born, her menstrual cycle never returned and she felt just "off." She mentioned a naturopath who came down to instruct classes on visceral mobilization to the staff at the PT clinic who she began to see for this lack of cycle.
I began to see this naturopath on a regular basis. He not only diagnosed me with PCOS, but he also discovered that my cortisol fluctuations were backwards; meaning that when they were supposed to be low (at night) they were high and when they were supposed to be high (during the day) they were low. Finally, an explanation for why I couldn't sleep at night and was so exhausted during the day. Another symptom of cortisol imbalance? Difficulty concentrating and retaining information. Another aha moment for me...this was why I was struggling so much in grad school. Once my cortisol levels got normalized, I began to love school again as I had in college. We also got my menstrual back on track thanks to herbs, not birth control. When I asked him his thoughts on birth control, he replied that he has consistently been seeing women with these issues who are taking these oral hormones. Like I had started to believe, he said that he believed that the pill has initiated these issues for me. I still believe this. I had absolutely no issues until I started taking the pill. Many would disagree, but my naturopath stated that birth control pills are one of the worst things we can put in our bodies (as well as other hormone-based pills; i.e. pretty much anything that will affect your menstrual/ovulation cycle).
Long story short, things began to improve. After a year or so, I read that people with PCOS tend to struggle with fertility, and it's usually because they don't ovulate. So I began to track my ovulation and it turned out I wasn't ovulating. So I starting taking herbs to help with that (instead of Clomid, which is the standard MD protocol and has really awful side effects).
Pretty soon after that (well not too soon), I was able to get pregnant (and probably a little too easily) :) Once pregnant, I began to notice something really strange. I wasn't gaining weight. I tried, believe me. I ate pretty much whatever I wanted (mostly healthy of course), but I was able to indulge in steak, creamy potatoes, etc. Things that all had all been off the menu because I couldn't seem to lose the last 10lbs I needed to. I only gained 19lbs while pregnant. Postpartum, an even stranger thing happened. After about six months, more weight fell off of me. All while I was exercising less than pre-baby and eating more (including a nightly dessert). I attributed this all to breast feeding and being a busy mom, but I spoke with our dear friend who is in charge of a big hospital in California, and he said they are seeing women diagnosed with PCOS getting pregnant and then seeing a shift in their metabolism, for the better. And it is permanent, as far as they can tell.
Finally, I feel validated; all my prebaby hard work paid off in a beautiful son and finally a metabolism that actually rewards me for eating well and exercising when I can. If you think you may have PCOS or another hormonal imbalance, I really encourage you to seek a physician who's first inclination is not to shoot you full of medicine and hormones. That's not a fun cycle to get stuck in. Here's to your health and Happy Easter!
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Baby Wipes
One of the new things I've learned as I continue to find healthier options for my family's self-care products (such as shampoos, lotions, etc), is that our baby wipes are packed with chemicals. Some of the biggest culprits are listed in the first few ingredients, including propylene glycol and PEGs. There is much research to support discontinuing use of any product containing these ingredients. We use cotton wipes at home, kept in a solution of witch hazel, aloe, calendula, and vitamin E, but when Jackson is at daycare, he has regular ol' wipes from Costco. But we will no longer be using these. There are very few brands that are actually are low on the chemical scale. One of these brands is the Yes To Carrots, made in the Netherlands; there are one to two more that are available at specialty stores, including PCC, but the price tag adds up (hence our using cloth wipes). Since the number of diaper changes has significantly lowered in the last few months, this has become more affordable at daycare. On the flip side, if you have a little one and you are doing many changes throughout the day, it is almost more important to have something that's safe to clean your baby's bum. If you want the recipe we use, let me know; there are also many online that are really easy to make.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Update on BPA and food dyes
Just a quick update for you all...
BPA: one recent study found that when participants eliminated packaged foods in cans and plastics from their diet for just three days, the BPA and phthalates in their urine dropped by 66% and 53-56%, respectively. Incredible! http://ehp03.niehs.nih.gov/article/info:doi/10.1289/ehp.1003170
Another recent study found that 70% of plastics claiming to be BPA free, are actually guilty of releasing hormone-disrupting chemicals. The also study found that 90% of these plastics release of chemicals increase with heat from cleaning. This is such disturbing research as I had felt fairly happy with using both glass and BPA free plastic bottles during my son's first year of life. We heated his milk while in the bottle, so we clearly were subjecting him to BPA. Needless to say, we are all glass and stainless steal now...goodbye plastic everything!
http://ehp03.niehs.nih.gov/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1289%2Fehp.1003220#Supplemental%20Material
And finally, the mainstream media has finally caught on to the dangers of food dyes. A recent spot on the Today Show, highlighted one family who had a child with ADD, who then removed all processed foods from their diet and switched to organic foods. They reportedly saw a significant improvement in their son's behavior and performance in school within days. The FDA recently met to address proposed issues surrounding food dyes. Although they somehow voted down the idea of having food labels provide a warning, they did at least acknowledge that some children may be susceptible to food dyes. Although there was clear disagreement among the FDA scientists, for now they have at agreed to look further into the connection between dyes and ADD. According to some research, food dye consumption has doubled since 1990.
BPA: one recent study found that when participants eliminated packaged foods in cans and plastics from their diet for just three days, the BPA and phthalates in their urine dropped by 66% and 53-56%, respectively. Incredible! http://ehp03.niehs.nih.gov/article/info:doi/10.1289/ehp.1003170
Another recent study found that 70% of plastics claiming to be BPA free, are actually guilty of releasing hormone-disrupting chemicals. The also study found that 90% of these plastics release of chemicals increase with heat from cleaning. This is such disturbing research as I had felt fairly happy with using both glass and BPA free plastic bottles during my son's first year of life. We heated his milk while in the bottle, so we clearly were subjecting him to BPA. Needless to say, we are all glass and stainless steal now...goodbye plastic everything!
http://ehp03.niehs.nih.gov/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1289%2Fehp.1003220#Supplemental%20Material
And finally, the mainstream media has finally caught on to the dangers of food dyes. A recent spot on the Today Show, highlighted one family who had a child with ADD, who then removed all processed foods from their diet and switched to organic foods. They reportedly saw a significant improvement in their son's behavior and performance in school within days. The FDA recently met to address proposed issues surrounding food dyes. Although they somehow voted down the idea of having food labels provide a warning, they did at least acknowledge that some children may be susceptible to food dyes. Although there was clear disagreement among the FDA scientists, for now they have at agreed to look further into the connection between dyes and ADD. According to some research, food dye consumption has doubled since 1990.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Safe Cosmetics
The world of face products and cosmetics is so huge and overwhelming that I have been putting off this very important blog. I've touched on the topic briefly in other blogs, but I'm diving in, tackling it head-on. When I refer to cosmetics in this post, it also includes face washes, shampoos, deodorants, etc.
What motivated me to finally write this post, is that I've been reading the most amazing book, "The Green Beauty Guide" by Julie Gabriel, who also has a website by the same name. I'm going to attempt to highlight the most eye-opening parts of this book, but if you are interested in natural skin care, I highly recommend reading the book (available at the library too!).
1. "Normal" skin doesn't exist. Slight dryness and oily spots are totally normal, but cosmetic companies have turned them into problem areas that need fixing. The key to remember is that when you put a product on your face (or hair) to fix a problem such as an oily T-zone or a pimple, you are simply trying to cover up the problem and not dealing with the cause.
2. Sebum is our skin's way of keeping itself moisturized. Skin care experts claim that sebum mixes with dead skin cells and bacteria to form plugs in pores. So naturally they jump to the conclusion that sebum is the enemy, instead of promoting good skin care habits that would eliminate dead skill cells and bacteria buildup.
3. Our skin absorbs up to 60% of what we put on it, meaning that what you are putting on your skin, you are also putting into your body. Many of the chemicals in our skin products are carcinogenic and therefore getting into our bodies.
4. Many of the claims made by cosmetic companies are bogus. They do have to prove or back up their effectiveness claims. When a product says "dermatologist tested" what it means is, a dermatologist looked over the ingredients and deemed them safe.
5. The European Union banned animal testing 2000, but here in the US, all we do is animal testing, and most often on genetically modified mice or rabbits, and it's the only research the FDA will stand by. As I've mentioned before, the FDA is a joke. Since it's creation (67 years ago), the FDA has banned only nine personal care ingredients. It took 20 years for the FDA to ban lead, yet it is still used in millions of toys that are let into our country. And there is a ton of research out there (quoted in the book) that supports the connection between chemicals (that are allowed by the FDA) and cancer.
6. Do NOT be fooled by the claims that a product is "natural," "eco-friendly," or "organic." You MUST read the label and ingredients. Many contain "eth" chemicals that are dangerous (see below).
7. Perfumes are FULL of toxic chemicals. I began avoided them while pregnant because I learned how dangerous they can be for a fetus and have not returned to wearing them.
Okay, here's the list of chemicals you want to keep an eye out for because they have been shown to be carcinogenic:
1) Anything containing the word "ethanol" including DEA (diethanolamine)
2) 1,4-Dioxane; banned in Cali and a by-product of ethoxylation which is an attempt by companies to provide mildness to harsh ingredients. It has been proven by EPA to lead to cancer and yet it is not required to be listed on the label. Look for products with ingredients "eth" in the name--sodium laureth sulfate, polyethylene glycol (PEG), oleth, myreth, ceteareth. PEGs are very often found in baby wipes (which is why we use cloth wipes, except when on the road).
3) Phthalates: disguised as di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP commonly in nail polish) and di(2-ehtylhexyl) DEHP in perfumes). The word "fragrance" should also be a red flag for you, unless it specifically says that it comes from essential oils. Fragrance is a disguise for phthalates, which changes our hormones, making males and females more feminine. Research links phthalates to rising incidence of hormone-related conditions, including polycystic ovarian syndrome, infertility, and breast cancer. Recent research links phthalate use to early puberty in girls. The CDC found that phthalate levels in young women were 20x above average. Unborn baby boys are also susceptible to phthalate use. Increased phthalate levels have been shown to damage the developing testes, but also have been shown to have more systemic affects such as low sperm count, sexual dysfunction, and hormonal problems. Increased phthalate presence has also been linked to abdominal obesity and insulin resistance. And yes, phthalates are in our children's toys, and yes, Europe banned them two years ago....and the US is behind the ball again...
4) Aluminum has been linked in research to breast cancer and Alzheimer's Disease. It is most commonly found in our deodorants, because it helps to clog the pores and not let sweat out. Aluminum is a known neurotoxin and it can alter the blood-brain barrier.
5) Glycol: these are in everything, from aircraft deicer fluid to baby wash. The two most common are propylene glycol (PG) and polyethylene glycol (PEG). PGs are generally recognized as safe by the FDA for use in food, cosmetics, and medicines, however it was banned from cat food...hmmmmm. PEG is used in a lot of "natural" products that have to be delivered in a slippery, syrupy form. These chemicals have not been linked to cancer, but change the body's chemistry by increasing the amount of acid present, which results in metabolic problems. There has been evidence that PEGs have impurities that lead them to be toxic.
6) There are also many, many preservatives used in cosmetics that increase their shelf life. There are many natural preservatives that could be used to replace these, but aren't. One natural cosmetics expert stated that if a product is made poorly and diluted with water, then it needs a preservative, but a well made product would not need such strong preservatives.
7) Parabens (a preservative): again, these are in EVERYTHING. When rubbed into the skin, the parabens are rapidly absorbed and metabolized and stored in the body. A major study in 2002 linked parabens to proliferation of two estrogen-dependent human breast cancer cells. Parabens have also been found in breast milk and breast cancer tumors. Parabens mimic estrogen and can therefore affect our ovaries and thyroid. They are disguised as benzoic acid, isobutyl p-hydroxybenzoate and p-methoxycarbonylphenol and are strictly regulated in Europe.
So here's my latest finds that are about as natural as you can get:
Natural Being, using Manuka honey from New Zealand
Suki, the latest rage among celebs but have very good natural care products, with the exception of 1-2 products.
Dr. Hauschka: the end-all and be-all of healthy cosmetics. It falls WAY above my price range, but maybe someday :)
Origins is pretty good in eliminating the major players like DEA, parabens, phthalates, but still have a few questionable ingredients, usually low on the ingredient list, but nonetheless they are there. Many of their simple products, like "Checks and Balances" facewash, are fairly safe.
And if you have others you love, let me know!
If in question about any of your cosmetics and skincare products, please consult www.cosmeticsdatabase.com. It allows you to type in products as well as ingredients to find out how safe or unsafe they are. It also tells you why a chemical is unsafe.
This book has been a fabulous read, and I'm going to try a few new strategies (found in her book), on how to improve my skin. If you struggle with your skin, it is worth your time. I'm hoping for good results!
What motivated me to finally write this post, is that I've been reading the most amazing book, "The Green Beauty Guide" by Julie Gabriel, who also has a website by the same name. I'm going to attempt to highlight the most eye-opening parts of this book, but if you are interested in natural skin care, I highly recommend reading the book (available at the library too!).
1. "Normal" skin doesn't exist. Slight dryness and oily spots are totally normal, but cosmetic companies have turned them into problem areas that need fixing. The key to remember is that when you put a product on your face (or hair) to fix a problem such as an oily T-zone or a pimple, you are simply trying to cover up the problem and not dealing with the cause.
2. Sebum is our skin's way of keeping itself moisturized. Skin care experts claim that sebum mixes with dead skin cells and bacteria to form plugs in pores. So naturally they jump to the conclusion that sebum is the enemy, instead of promoting good skin care habits that would eliminate dead skill cells and bacteria buildup.
3. Our skin absorbs up to 60% of what we put on it, meaning that what you are putting on your skin, you are also putting into your body. Many of the chemicals in our skin products are carcinogenic and therefore getting into our bodies.
4. Many of the claims made by cosmetic companies are bogus. They do have to prove or back up their effectiveness claims. When a product says "dermatologist tested" what it means is, a dermatologist looked over the ingredients and deemed them safe.
5. The European Union banned animal testing 2000, but here in the US, all we do is animal testing, and most often on genetically modified mice or rabbits, and it's the only research the FDA will stand by. As I've mentioned before, the FDA is a joke. Since it's creation (67 years ago), the FDA has banned only nine personal care ingredients. It took 20 years for the FDA to ban lead, yet it is still used in millions of toys that are let into our country. And there is a ton of research out there (quoted in the book) that supports the connection between chemicals (that are allowed by the FDA) and cancer.
6. Do NOT be fooled by the claims that a product is "natural," "eco-friendly," or "organic." You MUST read the label and ingredients. Many contain "eth" chemicals that are dangerous (see below).
7. Perfumes are FULL of toxic chemicals. I began avoided them while pregnant because I learned how dangerous they can be for a fetus and have not returned to wearing them.
Okay, here's the list of chemicals you want to keep an eye out for because they have been shown to be carcinogenic:
1) Anything containing the word "ethanol" including DEA (diethanolamine)
2) 1,4-Dioxane; banned in Cali and a by-product of ethoxylation which is an attempt by companies to provide mildness to harsh ingredients. It has been proven by EPA to lead to cancer and yet it is not required to be listed on the label. Look for products with ingredients "eth" in the name--sodium laureth sulfate, polyethylene glycol (PEG), oleth, myreth, ceteareth. PEGs are very often found in baby wipes (which is why we use cloth wipes, except when on the road).
3) Phthalates: disguised as di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP commonly in nail polish) and di(2-ehtylhexyl) DEHP in perfumes). The word "fragrance" should also be a red flag for you, unless it specifically says that it comes from essential oils. Fragrance is a disguise for phthalates, which changes our hormones, making males and females more feminine. Research links phthalates to rising incidence of hormone-related conditions, including polycystic ovarian syndrome, infertility, and breast cancer. Recent research links phthalate use to early puberty in girls. The CDC found that phthalate levels in young women were 20x above average. Unborn baby boys are also susceptible to phthalate use. Increased phthalate levels have been shown to damage the developing testes, but also have been shown to have more systemic affects such as low sperm count, sexual dysfunction, and hormonal problems. Increased phthalate presence has also been linked to abdominal obesity and insulin resistance. And yes, phthalates are in our children's toys, and yes, Europe banned them two years ago....and the US is behind the ball again...
4) Aluminum has been linked in research to breast cancer and Alzheimer's Disease. It is most commonly found in our deodorants, because it helps to clog the pores and not let sweat out. Aluminum is a known neurotoxin and it can alter the blood-brain barrier.
5) Glycol: these are in everything, from aircraft deicer fluid to baby wash. The two most common are propylene glycol (PG) and polyethylene glycol (PEG). PGs are generally recognized as safe by the FDA for use in food, cosmetics, and medicines, however it was banned from cat food...hmmmmm. PEG is used in a lot of "natural" products that have to be delivered in a slippery, syrupy form. These chemicals have not been linked to cancer, but change the body's chemistry by increasing the amount of acid present, which results in metabolic problems. There has been evidence that PEGs have impurities that lead them to be toxic.
6) There are also many, many preservatives used in cosmetics that increase their shelf life. There are many natural preservatives that could be used to replace these, but aren't. One natural cosmetics expert stated that if a product is made poorly and diluted with water, then it needs a preservative, but a well made product would not need such strong preservatives.
7) Parabens (a preservative): again, these are in EVERYTHING. When rubbed into the skin, the parabens are rapidly absorbed and metabolized and stored in the body. A major study in 2002 linked parabens to proliferation of two estrogen-dependent human breast cancer cells. Parabens have also been found in breast milk and breast cancer tumors. Parabens mimic estrogen and can therefore affect our ovaries and thyroid. They are disguised as benzoic acid, isobutyl p-hydroxybenzoate and p-methoxycarbonylphenol and are strictly regulated in Europe.
So here's my latest finds that are about as natural as you can get:
Natural Being, using Manuka honey from New Zealand
Suki, the latest rage among celebs but have very good natural care products, with the exception of 1-2 products.
Dr. Hauschka: the end-all and be-all of healthy cosmetics. It falls WAY above my price range, but maybe someday :)
Origins is pretty good in eliminating the major players like DEA, parabens, phthalates, but still have a few questionable ingredients, usually low on the ingredient list, but nonetheless they are there. Many of their simple products, like "Checks and Balances" facewash, are fairly safe.
And if you have others you love, let me know!
If in question about any of your cosmetics and skincare products, please consult www.cosmeticsdatabase.com. It allows you to type in products as well as ingredients to find out how safe or unsafe they are. It also tells you why a chemical is unsafe.
This book has been a fabulous read, and I'm going to try a few new strategies (found in her book), on how to improve my skin. If you struggle with your skin, it is worth your time. I'm hoping for good results!
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Toothpaste
Nothing is more refreshing than a good toothbrushing each morning and night. You get the wonderful fresh breath that's hard to get any other way. However, very few people realize that dangerous chemicals are lurking in their toothpaste. I'll tackle them one-by-one, starting with fluoride.
Fluoride: please see my previous blog on this, but I've stumbled across more research to support my concern. A study of the University of Michigan in 1997 found that the use of fluoride actually increased tooth and bone decay. This was supported by another research study in 2008. A research study at the National Center for Toxicological Research reported correlation between decreasing fertility rates in women and increasing fluoride levels. There is so much more research out there, but I won't bore you. Just realize that fluoride may not be all it is cracked up to be.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate: ANYTHING containing the word "sulfate" should be avoided. It is a serious irritant. Also, "laureth" indicates that a process call ethoxylation occurred, which releases carcinogen 1,4-Dioxane into the product, although it does not have to be reported on the label because it is released during manufacturing.
Sodium saccharin: This is a sweetener that is used to make toothpaste taste better, even though there are studies that date back as early as 1970 that link saccharin to cancer in animals. There have been recent studies that link it to bladder control issues as well.
Dyes: Most of the toothpastes on the market have multiple dyes in them to make them visually appealing.
I haven't used a fluoride toothpaste in over a year and haven't heard any complaints from my dentist yet! My favorite is Tom's of Maine, their fluoride-free, sulfate-free version. Do not be fooled, not all of the Tom's brand are safe, in my mind. Most of them contain sulfates, so read the label.
If you feel the need to use a fluoride rinse, please consider using one that is free of artificial dyes. I was so excited to finally find one at PCC made by Natural Dentist. Yes, the price is a bit high, but my husband's dentist insists he use one, so we budget for it.
It is not only important to take care of our teeth, but also our little one's. We primarily use a fluoride-free paste for my son, but because my naturopathic pediatrician does feel that a small amount of fluoride won't hurt him, I compromise and give him fluoride toothpaste 1-2x/week. And the amount is the size of a lentil. And I still feel guilty. But I'm trying to not be overly paranoid and still protect my son's teeth. I had serious fluorosis (damage to the teeth from excessive fluoride) until I had veneers put in, and I don't want him to have to go through that.
I'm off to brush my teeth and say goodnight....
Fluoride: please see my previous blog on this, but I've stumbled across more research to support my concern. A study of the University of Michigan in 1997 found that the use of fluoride actually increased tooth and bone decay. This was supported by another research study in 2008. A research study at the National Center for Toxicological Research reported correlation between decreasing fertility rates in women and increasing fluoride levels. There is so much more research out there, but I won't bore you. Just realize that fluoride may not be all it is cracked up to be.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate: ANYTHING containing the word "sulfate" should be avoided. It is a serious irritant. Also, "laureth" indicates that a process call ethoxylation occurred, which releases carcinogen 1,4-Dioxane into the product, although it does not have to be reported on the label because it is released during manufacturing.
Sodium saccharin: This is a sweetener that is used to make toothpaste taste better, even though there are studies that date back as early as 1970 that link saccharin to cancer in animals. There have been recent studies that link it to bladder control issues as well.
Dyes: Most of the toothpastes on the market have multiple dyes in them to make them visually appealing.
I haven't used a fluoride toothpaste in over a year and haven't heard any complaints from my dentist yet! My favorite is Tom's of Maine, their fluoride-free, sulfate-free version. Do not be fooled, not all of the Tom's brand are safe, in my mind. Most of them contain sulfates, so read the label.
If you feel the need to use a fluoride rinse, please consider using one that is free of artificial dyes. I was so excited to finally find one at PCC made by Natural Dentist. Yes, the price is a bit high, but my husband's dentist insists he use one, so we budget for it.
It is not only important to take care of our teeth, but also our little one's. We primarily use a fluoride-free paste for my son, but because my naturopathic pediatrician does feel that a small amount of fluoride won't hurt him, I compromise and give him fluoride toothpaste 1-2x/week. And the amount is the size of a lentil. And I still feel guilty. But I'm trying to not be overly paranoid and still protect my son's teeth. I had serious fluorosis (damage to the teeth from excessive fluoride) until I had veneers put in, and I don't want him to have to go through that.
I'm off to brush my teeth and say goodnight....
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Lent, Revisited...
Okay, so an update....after I gave up the sugar, I started to fall back into old habits of eating everything BUT the sugar. It became more of a stress rather than a positive thing in my life. So I had to alter things a bit...I re-included less refined sugars such as agave, date sugar and maple sugar, as well as molasses (in my BBQ sauce) because it actually has healthy minerals. I also re-included homemade desserts using these sugars...I think baking is one way I de-stress and I'm always coming up with ways to make old recipes more healthy, and that's something I really enjoy doing and sharing.
I gave up sugar originally because I thought I should give up a vice for Lent, but really, sugar isn't my enemy like it used to be (back in the day when I had no idea what high-fructose corn syrup was). Sugar used to hold a power over me, but it no longer does. I continue to eliminate it where ever it shouldn't be, like in my ketchup, but I'm okay with an occasional homemade cookie (nothing overly processed like Girl Scout cookies, which just make my stomach hurt).
And I really have enjoyed using the alternate sugars. I highly recommend those above as well as brown rice syrup. I made the most fabulous peanut butter cups the other day using the maple sugar...yum! Let me know if you want the recipe :)
I gave up sugar originally because I thought I should give up a vice for Lent, but really, sugar isn't my enemy like it used to be (back in the day when I had no idea what high-fructose corn syrup was). Sugar used to hold a power over me, but it no longer does. I continue to eliminate it where ever it shouldn't be, like in my ketchup, but I'm okay with an occasional homemade cookie (nothing overly processed like Girl Scout cookies, which just make my stomach hurt).
And I really have enjoyed using the alternate sugars. I highly recommend those above as well as brown rice syrup. I made the most fabulous peanut butter cups the other day using the maple sugar...yum! Let me know if you want the recipe :)
Friday, March 25, 2011
Microwaves
I was doing some reading online tonight about the chemicals in plastic and came across an article discussing the use of microwaves. I don't like microwaves. When I was pregnant I avoided them like the plague. If I absolutely had to use one, I'd hit start and book it to the next room. While many scientists claim that we are not to be concerned about the radiation from microwaves, there is some research to indicate otherwise. But this is not my latest concern.
New research is now indicating that microwaves affect the quality of our food. Several studies have indicated that microwaves convert particles in our food to carcinogens. This is very controversial, but when you think about, injecting waves of radiation into our food, can't be go, can it? I've already discussed how radiation affects our brains, which are at least protected by bone and CSF fluid. Our food is right there on the plate, with no protection. One study found that 93% of nutrients were lost with microwaving. It is also important to know that the risks of microwaves increase with packaged foods, such a popcorn (which typically has palm oil on it, which is bad enough for you, without also placing it in the microwave). And of course we all know not to put plastics in the microwave, but popcorns bags contain BPA and release it during popping. We invested in an awesome air popper last year because my husband kept bugging me to buy popcorn which I wouldn't because of the bag issue. The air popped takes a bit to get used to, but with a smidge of real butter and salt, I swear it's better than the packaged product. Additionally:
Other research from Russia has found the following:
These particular findings are especially controversial, because even though they are cited in multiple articles and websites, the actual source is not traceable.
There is a study that I will conduct when I get home from vacation and share with you: take two identical plants and feed one with purified water (which is all we use in our house, except for washing dishes) and feed the other with microwaved water...can't wait to see the results for myself.
There is good news though! Using the conventional oven does not damage the food in the way that microwaves do. Microwaves damage the DNA in food whereas heating alone via an oven does not.
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2010/05/18/microwave-hazards.aspx
New research is now indicating that microwaves affect the quality of our food. Several studies have indicated that microwaves convert particles in our food to carcinogens. This is very controversial, but when you think about, injecting waves of radiation into our food, can't be go, can it? I've already discussed how radiation affects our brains, which are at least protected by bone and CSF fluid. Our food is right there on the plate, with no protection. One study found that 93% of nutrients were lost with microwaving. It is also important to know that the risks of microwaves increase with packaged foods, such a popcorn (which typically has palm oil on it, which is bad enough for you, without also placing it in the microwave). And of course we all know not to put plastics in the microwave, but popcorns bags contain BPA and release it during popping. We invested in an awesome air popper last year because my husband kept bugging me to buy popcorn which I wouldn't because of the bag issue. The air popped takes a bit to get used to, but with a smidge of real butter and salt, I swear it's better than the packaged product. Additionally:
- A 1999 Scandinavian study of the cooking of asparagus spears found that microwaving caused a reduction in vitamin C[6] .
- In a study of garlic, as little as 60 seconds of microwave heating was enough to inactivate its allinase, garlic’s principle active ingredient against cancer[7] .
- A Japanese study by Watanabe showed that just 6 minutes of microwave heating turned 30-40 percent of the B12 in milk into an inert (dead) form[8] . This study has been cited by Dr. Andrew Weil as evidence supporting his concerns about the effects of microwaving. Dr. Weil wrote:
- “There may be dangers associated with microwaving food... there is a question as to whether microwaving alters protein chemistry in ways that might be harmful."
- A recent Australian study[9] showed that microwaves cause a higher degree of “protein unfolding” than conventional heating.
- Microwaving can destroy the essential disease-fighting agents in breast milk that offer protection for your baby. In 1992, Quan found that microwaved breast milk lost lysozyme activity, antibodies, and fostered the growth of more potentially pathogenic bacteria[10] .
- Quan stated that more damage was done to the milk by microwaving than by other methods of heating, concluding: “Microwaving appears to be contraindicated at high-temperatures, and questions regarding its safety exist even at low temperatures.”
- Another study about breast milk/infant formula by Lee in 1989[11] found vitamin content becomes depleted by microwaving, and certain amino acids are converted into other substances that are biologically inactive. Some altered amino acids are poisons to the nervous system and kidneys. (Numerous authors mention this study, yet I was unable to find the original article/study, so I cannot personally validate.)Although many of the above studies are not new, there is certainly ample evidence that microwaving is NOT good for your food.
- Another study about breast milk/infant formula by Lee in 1989[11] found vitamin content becomes depleted by microwaving, and certain amino acids are converted into other substances that are biologically inactive. Some altered amino acids are poisons to the nervous system and kidneys. (Numerous authors mention this study, yet I was unable to find the original article/study, so I cannot personally validate.)
Other research from Russia has found the following:
- Russian investigators found that carcinogens were formed from the microwaving of nearly all foods tested.
- The microwaving of milk and grains converted some of the amino acids into carcinogenic substances.
- Microwaving prepared meats caused the formation of the cancer-causing agents d-Nitrosodienthanolamines.
- Thawing frozen fruits by microwave converted their glucoside and galactoside fractions into carcinogenic substances.
- Extremely short exposure of raw, cooked or frozen vegetables converted their plant alkaloids into carcinogens.
- Carcinogenic free radicals were formed in microwaved plants—especially root vegetables.
- Structural degradation leading to decreased food value was found to be 60 to 90 percent overall for all foods tested, with significant decreases in bioavailability of B complex vitamins, vitamins C and E, essential minerals, and lipotropics (substances that prevent abnormal accumulation of fat).
These particular findings are especially controversial, because even though they are cited in multiple articles and websites, the actual source is not traceable.
There is a study that I will conduct when I get home from vacation and share with you: take two identical plants and feed one with purified water (which is all we use in our house, except for washing dishes) and feed the other with microwaved water...can't wait to see the results for myself.
There is good news though! Using the conventional oven does not damage the food in the way that microwaves do. Microwaves damage the DNA in food whereas heating alone via an oven does not.
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2010/05/18/microwave-hazards.aspx
Monday, March 21, 2011
Vaccines are being linked to breast cancer
It seems like an unlikely connection, doesn't it? I was skeptical when I first read the headline...and I will also let you know that I did try to track down any other research on this connection, but I found only one other site and it only briefly mentioned the connection. Here's the claim: a large number of studies have shown the connection between free iron concentrations in breast tissue and stimulation of aggressive, deadly cancer cells, thus the claim that iron is needed for cancer development. In addition, a recent study found that women with breast cancer had 4x the amount of aluminum in nipple fluid (I'll save the overuse of aluminum for another post). These women with breast cancer also had 5x the amount of ferritin, which is an iron transport protein. BUT iron intake does not necessary correlate with free iron in the body. Stay with me....so what is important to know, is how free iron (iron not being used for other bodily functions) comes to be (it is this iron that has the potential to cause cancer). A few ways have been determined: 1) alcoholic intake greater than 20g alcohol/day resulted in a significant increase in free iron in women's breast tissue 2) excessive estrogen in the body (don't forget that soy is an estrogenic and imitates estrogen) 3) both alcohol and aluminum can displace iron, raising levels of free iron. SO I hope you are now asking, where are the levels of aluminum coming from? Well, it is likely coming from your antiperspirant, but more alarmingly, aluminum is in almost all vaccines. Yes, the same aluminum that has been linked to Alzheimer's...A recent study that is currently being published, found that infants have 20x the amount that FDA deems safe and that a six month old has 50x the amount deemed safe. Yikes!
Does that make sense? I just tried explaining it to my husband and it took a few tries, but I think I finally made sense :)
This if fairly new research, but I'm hoping we hear more about this in the next few months, but I have such little faith in mainstream media so we'll see.
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/03/18/vaccines-increase-cancer-risk.aspx
Does that make sense? I just tried explaining it to my husband and it took a few tries, but I think I finally made sense :)
This if fairly new research, but I'm hoping we hear more about this in the next few months, but I have such little faith in mainstream media so we'll see.
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/03/18/vaccines-increase-cancer-risk.aspx
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
I saw the sun today!
Okay, it was a fleeting moment, but thoughts of sunscreen, bug spray, and hats came swirling through my brain. The sunscreens that are readily available on the market are so unhealthy. They contain a vast array of chemicals, including parabens. The FDA has failed to regulate sunscreens, although this is reportedly supposed to change this summer. The chemical of most concern is benzophenone-3 (BP-3). Some studies have reported that it is an estrogenic mimic and therefore affects the hormones in your body. It causes the release of free radicals when it comes in contact with the sun. Free radicals are one of the causes of cancer. I copied the below from: http://www.skinbiology.com/toxicsunscreens.html. These are some of the critical things I want to get across:
An interesting statistic from the above site is this: the highest rate of melanoma occurs in the countries of heaviest sunscreen use...
For you parents out there: I love California Baby sunscreens. For us and babies, I love the Badger brand which can be purchased online.
Enjoy the sun this spring/summer, but also don't forget the best way to get vitamin D is 15 minutes of direct sunlight without the sunscreen :)
a few resources:
http://greenlivingideas.com/2008/06/03/chemical-free-sunscreens/
this is a really interesting article on sunscreen
http://www.ewg.org/2010sunscreen/
my go-to website! It let's you check the sunscreen you have to make sure it is safe to use.
http://www.ewg.org/newsrelease/whichsunscreenssafest
the science on the sunscreens
| 1 | They are powerful free radical generators. | Their free radical generation increases cellular damage and changes that lead to cancer. Psoralen - such a compound that is used to treat psoriasis increases skin cancer rates 83-fold. |
| 2 | They often have strong estrogenic activity. | Estrogenic - "Gender Bending" - chemicals interfere with normal sexual development - Engendering a host of secondary medical problems - see more below. |
| 3 | They are synthetic chemicals that are alien to the human body and accumulate in body fat stores. | The human body is well adapted to de-toxify biologicals that it has been exposed to over tens of millions of years. But it has often has difficulty removing new and non-biological compounds such DDT, Dioxin, PCBs, and chemical sunscreens. |
Chemical Sunscreens Include:
Benzophenones (dixoybenzone, oxybenzone)
PABA and PABA esters (ethyl dihydroxy propyl PAB, glyceryl PABA, p-aminobenzoic acid, padimate-O or octyl dimethyl PABA)
Cinnamates (cinoxate, ethylhexyl p-methoxycinnamate, octocrylene, octyl methoxycinnamate)
Salicylates (ethylhexyl salicylate, homosalate, octyl salicylate)
Digalloyl trioleate
Menthyl anthranilate
Avobenzone [butyl-methyoxydibenzoylmethane; Parsol 1789] - This is the only chemical sunscreen currently allowed by the European Community. However, its safety is still questionable since it easily penetrates the skin and is a strong free radical generator.
Europe is always leaps ahead of the US. So if something is banned there (as most of the above chemicals are), I won't touch it with a ten foot pole. For example, the banned BPA years before the US even began to debate it.
An interesting statistic from the above site is this: the highest rate of melanoma occurs in the countries of heaviest sunscreen use...
For you parents out there: I love California Baby sunscreens. For us and babies, I love the Badger brand which can be purchased online.
Enjoy the sun this spring/summer, but also don't forget the best way to get vitamin D is 15 minutes of direct sunlight without the sunscreen :)
a few resources:
http://greenlivingideas.com/2008/06/03/chemical-free-sunscreens/
this is a really interesting article on sunscreen
http://www.ewg.org/2010sunscreen/
my go-to website! It let's you check the sunscreen you have to make sure it is safe to use.
http://www.ewg.org/newsrelease/whichsunscreenssafest
the science on the sunscreens
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Processed vs Natural Foods
I've been putting off this blog because I knew that it would take me time to organize my thoughts so that I wasn't just rambling off gibberish. But I just read about Weight Watchers, who is changing their tune on calorie counting, and I was motivated to get my thoughts onto out.
After years of struggling with my weight, I can tell you that no amount of calorie counting helped. All it did was make me crazy about the amount of foods that I was eating. And I was enticed by low calorie foods...but then just ended up eating the whole bad and still not feeling satisfied. As I became more well-read and spent time researching organics and healthy foods, it came to may attention that it was not about how much you are eating (well, that is important, but not as important) as what you eat. Processed food is the enemy. Literally. It contains large amounts of sodium and additives. Even organics, which I am a HUGE proponent of, contain unnecessary preservatives and additives when processed. As I started reading labels, I started realizing that I had thought I was eating well because I had been buying organics and shopping at Trader Joes, but turns out, I was consuming a bunch of crap along with my snacks.
So now, we have almost no processed foods in the house. We have bread and pasta, and of course cereal and milk for my husband, but that's about it. Every once in awhile I'll buy chips or crackers, but only ones with minimal ingredients that I can pronounce. Even after years of shifting how I eat, I STILL read my labels anytime I buy something in a box or a bag.
Nothing proved to me that I was onto something as much as when I moved in with my husband a few years ago. Prior to that, he lived on Subway, sandwiches from Safeway, and takeout Teriyaki. And peanut and butter sandwiches. Prior to having me cook all his meals, his resting blood pressure was 122/80, which used to be considered healthy, although now is considered borderline high. Within a month, his blood pressure was 110/70. That's a HUGE shift and is in the healthy range.
My take home point is this: all calories are not created equal. Meats should be grass-fed, organically raised to avoid antibiotics which mess with our metabolisms. Fish should not be farm raised--again, these animals are fed grains (that are genetically modified--see previous post on this!) and are not healthy and are bad for our bodies. Be careful with protein powders. Many of them have artificial sweeteners which also have a bad effect on our bodies and our metabolisms. Grains should be whole and as unadulterated as possible: quinoa, barley, whole grain rice, etc. These are more filling, healthier for our digestive tracts and don't raise our blood sugars. And I have a sweet tooth. So I even converted our sweets to less processed and organic. We started enjoying Alden's Organic Ice Cream out of Oregon. It is minimally processed and delicious. At first, I was nervous. I was a Dreyer's Light kind of girl; 120 calories or less please! These new ice creams were much higher in calories, coming in at 180+ calories. But I will tell you this: I was much more satisfied with my little scoop of a high quality ice cream than a half-gallon of the Dreyer's Light (or other similar ice cream which is mostly air, by the way). (And yes, embarrassingly enough, I could put away a whole half-gallon if I was really in the mood). But now, I'm satisfied with so much less because there are less chemicals telling my body that I want more (this is real, btw--chemicals are added to processed and fast foods so that they are more appealing to our bodies and signal us to crave more). Also watch out for Weight Watcher packaged foods, or foods marketed for weight loss. Read those labels...there is an INCREDIBLE amount of chemicals in those foods. And once you start eating whole, natural foods, these foods taste gross!
There is also research out there that supports the fact that our bodies read different calories differently. Our bodies are meant to consume whole foods. A 100 calorie apple is a better choice than a 100 calorie bag of cookies. The apple provides all sort of nutrients and is more filling than anything processed. Don't go overboard, but you can eat more food when it's unprocessed than if it is. I can attest to this. I initially lost 12lbs when I shifted the way I ate.
That said, we're not perfect and of course we order out pizza once in a while. But that is the exception. Our investment as a family is in our health (and Jackson's college education). Pay for it now or pay for it later. I think the state of our healthcare would be very different if we focused on pushing for healthy foods instead of trying to figure out how to pay for our rising costs. Ah, but that's another post for another day.
Please let me know if you have questions. I feel VERY strongly that eating this way will change our health and our lives, and the lives of our children.
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/03/09/weight-watchers-finally-recognizes-calorie-counting-doesnt-work.aspx
http://www.drgreene.com/blog/2011/01/05/dr-greene’s-parenting-predictions-2011
After years of struggling with my weight, I can tell you that no amount of calorie counting helped. All it did was make me crazy about the amount of foods that I was eating. And I was enticed by low calorie foods...but then just ended up eating the whole bad and still not feeling satisfied. As I became more well-read and spent time researching organics and healthy foods, it came to may attention that it was not about how much you are eating (well, that is important, but not as important) as what you eat. Processed food is the enemy. Literally. It contains large amounts of sodium and additives. Even organics, which I am a HUGE proponent of, contain unnecessary preservatives and additives when processed. As I started reading labels, I started realizing that I had thought I was eating well because I had been buying organics and shopping at Trader Joes, but turns out, I was consuming a bunch of crap along with my snacks.
So now, we have almost no processed foods in the house. We have bread and pasta, and of course cereal and milk for my husband, but that's about it. Every once in awhile I'll buy chips or crackers, but only ones with minimal ingredients that I can pronounce. Even after years of shifting how I eat, I STILL read my labels anytime I buy something in a box or a bag.
Nothing proved to me that I was onto something as much as when I moved in with my husband a few years ago. Prior to that, he lived on Subway, sandwiches from Safeway, and takeout Teriyaki. And peanut and butter sandwiches. Prior to having me cook all his meals, his resting blood pressure was 122/80, which used to be considered healthy, although now is considered borderline high. Within a month, his blood pressure was 110/70. That's a HUGE shift and is in the healthy range.
My take home point is this: all calories are not created equal. Meats should be grass-fed, organically raised to avoid antibiotics which mess with our metabolisms. Fish should not be farm raised--again, these animals are fed grains (that are genetically modified--see previous post on this!) and are not healthy and are bad for our bodies. Be careful with protein powders. Many of them have artificial sweeteners which also have a bad effect on our bodies and our metabolisms. Grains should be whole and as unadulterated as possible: quinoa, barley, whole grain rice, etc. These are more filling, healthier for our digestive tracts and don't raise our blood sugars. And I have a sweet tooth. So I even converted our sweets to less processed and organic. We started enjoying Alden's Organic Ice Cream out of Oregon. It is minimally processed and delicious. At first, I was nervous. I was a Dreyer's Light kind of girl; 120 calories or less please! These new ice creams were much higher in calories, coming in at 180+ calories. But I will tell you this: I was much more satisfied with my little scoop of a high quality ice cream than a half-gallon of the Dreyer's Light (or other similar ice cream which is mostly air, by the way). (And yes, embarrassingly enough, I could put away a whole half-gallon if I was really in the mood). But now, I'm satisfied with so much less because there are less chemicals telling my body that I want more (this is real, btw--chemicals are added to processed and fast foods so that they are more appealing to our bodies and signal us to crave more). Also watch out for Weight Watcher packaged foods, or foods marketed for weight loss. Read those labels...there is an INCREDIBLE amount of chemicals in those foods. And once you start eating whole, natural foods, these foods taste gross!
There is also research out there that supports the fact that our bodies read different calories differently. Our bodies are meant to consume whole foods. A 100 calorie apple is a better choice than a 100 calorie bag of cookies. The apple provides all sort of nutrients and is more filling than anything processed. Don't go overboard, but you can eat more food when it's unprocessed than if it is. I can attest to this. I initially lost 12lbs when I shifted the way I ate.
That said, we're not perfect and of course we order out pizza once in a while. But that is the exception. Our investment as a family is in our health (and Jackson's college education). Pay for it now or pay for it later. I think the state of our healthcare would be very different if we focused on pushing for healthy foods instead of trying to figure out how to pay for our rising costs. Ah, but that's another post for another day.
Please let me know if you have questions. I feel VERY strongly that eating this way will change our health and our lives, and the lives of our children.
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/03/09/weight-watchers-finally-recognizes-calorie-counting-doesnt-work.aspx
http://www.drgreene.com/blog/2011/01/05/dr-greene’s-parenting-predictions-2011
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)