Saturday, January 31, 2015

A love note…

I have absolutely loved the notes I have been getting from you all over the globe.

I realize that many of you can't attend my book launch party to celebrate because of travel so I want to make sure you know that my local bookstore here in Charlotte called Park Road Books is offering signed and personalized copies of The Food Babe Way. They'll ship it straight to you!

I'll be spending next weekend there, getting these books ready for you before I fly off to NYC. I hope you'll reserve one now so I can send you a love note.

You can get one here: http://www.parkroadbooks.com/book/9780316376464-0

Thank you again for supporting this book.

What do you think the food industry will say if The Food Babe Way hits the best sellers list? I can't wait to find out but I can't get there without you.

Xo,

Vani

P.S. If you want a specific note or addressee, please make sure to put that in the order details at checkout.

 

 



P.O. Box 31521 Charlotte, NC 28231

If you would like to stop receiving free food investigations, recipes and healthy living tips, click here.

Do Skin Cancer Fears Contribute to Vitamin D Deficiency?

Do Skin Cancer Fears Contribute to Vitamin D Deficiency?

Link to Dr. Group's Healthy Living blog

Do Skin Cancer Fears Contribute to Vitamin D Deficiency?

Posted: 30 Jan 2015 07:00 AM PST

woman-putting-sunscreen-in-hand

The sun is both loved and feared, and many people either worship its life-giving warmth or shun it altogether. As fear of skin cancer related to UV exposure became widespread, individuals around the globe began shying away from natural sunlight. Many skin cancer campaigns urged listeners to avoid sun exposure whenever possible and slather skin with extra-strength sun block in preparation for even the briefest contact with the sun. While this advice might've had good intentions, the results have been nothing but harmful.

Vitamin D Deficiency Effects

Prolonged exposure to sunlight may increase disease risk as well as speed up the visible signs of aging. Moderate, daily exposure on the other hand can actually prevent these effects. It sounds paradoxical, but most things related to health usually are. Sunlight is also important for maintaining a healthy mood, regulating your sleep cycles, and supporting your immune system. Extreme measures to avoiding sunlight exposure may deprive you of Vitamin D, which is believed to offer a number of essential health benefits. Some of the effects related to vitamin D deficiency include:

1. Increased Blood Pressure

Research has consistently shown that there is a direct correlation between vitamin D deficiency and high blood pressure. [1] According to a recent study conducted at the University of Edinburgh, 30 minutes of UV exposure may lower blood pressure by triggering natural stores of nitric oxide in the skin, which causes small blood vessels to dilate. [2] Other studies have found that people tend to have lower blood pressure during the summer, and the further you live from the equator, the higher the odds are that you will suffer from high blood pressure and heart disease.

2. Heart Disease and Stroke

If sun exposure reduces blood pressure, it may also be able to prevent heart disease and stroke. [3] High blood pressure is a huge risk factor for these types of health conditions, both of which account for 30 percent of annual deaths across the globe. People at risk for heart disease should probably look into checking their vitamin D levels (ask your doctor for a 25-hydroxyvitamin D test) and possibly supplement with a vegan form of vitamin D3.

3. Immune System Suppression

A deficiency of vitamin D can actually contribute to the suppression of the immune system. [4] This may be why colds and flu often occur during the winter months when people are indoors for the majority of the day.

Vitamin D Guidelines

While it is important to be mindful of UV rays' potential for skin damage, responsible sun exposure is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Sunlight is ideal for producing natural vitamin D, but a vitamin D3 supplement may be necessary, especially during the winter months.

Experts suggest that if the UV index is less than three, it may be fine for most individuals to go out in the sun without protection. When the UV index is three or above, however, protective measures for your skin are encouraged, including sunscreen application and wearing proper clothing. Experts note that the early morning and late afternoon are the safest times to go out in the sun, while the middle of the day is when UV rays are most intense and have the highest potential for harm.

What You Can Do to Protect Your Skin

Vitamin D is essential, and we need some form of sunlight exposure every day to keep our health and wellbeing running smoothly. At the same time, overexposure can age the skin quickly and contribute to disease risk. Since the skin on your face is thinner than other areas of your body, it is best to apply an organic sunscreen to your face and neck, exposing your arms and legs to the sun for vitamin D production. After about 15 to 20 minutes of mid-day exposure, it may be best to find some type of protection from the direct rays of the sun. This is dependent on your skin type, but most people should avoid being in direct sunlight beyond 30 minutes.

How do you ensure a healthy dose of daily vitamin D? Please let us know your thoughts in the comments!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

  1. Tamez H, Thadhani RI. Vitamin D and hypertension: an update and review. Curr Opin Nephrol Hypertens. 2012 Sep;21(5):492-9. doi: 10.1097/MNH.0b013e3283557bf0
  2. Vimaleswaran KS, Cavadino A, Berry DJ, et al. Association of vitamin D status with arterial blood pressure and hypertension risk: a mendelian randomisation study. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol. 2014 Sep;2(9):719-29. doi: 10.1016/S2213-8587 (14)70113-5.
  3. Gouni-Berthold I, Krone W, Berthold HK. Vitamin D and cardiovascular disease. Curr Vasc Pharmacol. 2009 Jul;7(3):414-22.
  4. Cynthia Aranow, MD. Vitamin D and the Immune System. J Investig Med. Aug 2011; 59(6): 881-886. doi: 10.231/JIM.0b013e31821b8755.

The post Do Skin Cancer Fears Contribute to Vitamin D Deficiency? appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

Friday, January 30, 2015

I want to see you.

This is a special invitation just for you. I want to personally invite you to celebrate the release of my new book The Food Babe Way in New York City on the evening of February 10th

We have a spectacular program for the evening. Get tickets here.

Tickets include a copy of my book. I would love to sign it and personalize it if you come.

Can't wait to hug you and thank you in person for your amazing support.

Xo,

Vani

P.S. These are very limited exclusive tickets, so if you want to come, get them soon. 

 

 



P.O. Box 31521 Charlotte, NC 28231

If you would like to stop receiving free food investigations, recipes and healthy living tips, click here.

Love your Liver by Cleansing It! Global Healing Center Infographic

Love your Liver by Cleansing It! Global Healing Center Infographic

Link to Dr. Group's Healthy Living blog

Love your Liver by Cleansing It! Global Healing Center Infographic

Posted: 29 Jan 2015 07:00 AM PST

animated-liver-and-body

Are you aware of the incredible functions of your liver?

    • The liver produces bile to break down lipids, insulin, and hormones.
    • It metabolizes proteins by converting amino acids into glucose to produce energy.
    • It cleanses the body by removing wastes and toxins from your blood to be excreted.

A Toxic Liver Needs Detoxification

Modern society has major implications on our livers – from alcohol indulgence at social events, to the consumption of our favorite fried treats, to absorbing elements such as fluoride from our water – toxins assault our bodily systems on a daily basis.

So what happens when your liver is overwhelmed with foreign elements and toxic waste? Just like a car that needs an oil change, the liver won't operate at the highest efficiency possible.

Health Benefits of a Liver Cleanse Include:

  • Improved Digestion and Elimination of Toxins
  • Feeling Lighter and Healthier
  • Balanced Lipid Profiles
  • Improved Skin, Hair, and Nails
  • Improved Mood Support and Balance
  • Improved Memory and Cognition
  • Decreased Bloating and Gas
  • Reduced Cravings for Sugar and Fatty Foods
  • Increased Energy and Vitality

Promoting a Strong Liver

There are many steps you can take to promote a healthy liver, including increasing healthy habits like reducing your alcohol intake and increasing consumption of liver boosting foods. Starting off with a liver cleanse is one of the best way to kick-start your healthy liver habits and detoxify your body.



Visit our Liver Cleansing Portal to view the full instructions and learn more about detoxifying your liver.

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

The post Love your Liver by Cleansing It! Global Healing Center Infographic appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Top 5 Foods for the Pineal Gland

Top 5 Foods for the Pineal Gland

Link to Dr. Group's Healthy Living blog

Top 5 Foods for the Pineal Gland

Posted: 28 Jan 2015 08:00 AM PST

chlorella-tablets

If you're seeking enlightenment through meditation, or perhaps you're just looking to obtain a good night's rest, you need a healthy pineal gland. Often referred to as the third eye, this small, pinecone-shaped endocrine organ located in the brain secretes and regulates melatonin, the hormone that regulates your circadian rhythms (your sleep-wake cycle) and certain sex hormones.

Top 5 Foods for the Pineal Gland

Calcification is an issue that occurs to everyone, but it's increased in individuals that eat a poor diet. The problem is that overexposure to fluoride and phosphorus destabilizes your body's mineral balance. This causes your pineal gland to calcify quickly. Nearly half of Americans experience pineal calcification by the age of 18! This disrupts your natural rhythms and hormones.

The best answer is to eliminate junk foods and limit your fluoride exposure. You need to get enough raw, healthy foods to help decalcify and support the pineal gland. Try these 5 foods for the best pineal gland health.

1. Chlorella

Chlorella, spirulina, and wheatgrass are great foods packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These and other chlorophyll-dense superfoods remove heavy metal toxins that build up in organs, increase oxygen levels, repair damaged tissue, and boost your immune system. The ability to remove heavy metals from organs aids the body in removing metal buildup. Plus, by boosting oxygen and immune function, it may help your body reverse pineal gland calcification.

2. Iodine

Fluoride from your tap water settles into the pineal gland. Iodine is essential to every organ of the body, but modern iodine deficiencies leave room for iodine's elemental cousin, fluoride, to take its place.

The human body has no use for fluoride so the body isolates it in a calcium husk. Increase your iodine intake and you'll reduce the effect of fluoride on all of your organs. You can get it from organic dietary sources like spinach, broccoli, seaweed, and fish. You can also supplement with iodine, although I recommend nascent iodine for the best results.

3. Oregano Oil

Research supports oregano oil as a powerful tool against microbes and other harmful organisms. [1] By supporting immune function, your body will more successfully remove harmful organisms before it can attack tissue like the pineal gland. This reduces the chance of gland calcification. Plus, oregano oil cleanses your system so you'll enjoy better health.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar

Buy raw apple cider vinegar as it contains malic acid. This chemical compound gives vinegar its sour taste and also acts as a heavy metal detoxifier. Malic acid is well known for its ability to remove aluminum from the human body. [2] Additional health benefits include dissolving kidney stones, relieving gout, lowering blood pressure, and balancing glucose levels.

The easiest way to take raw apple cider vinegar is to mix a cup of water with a tablespoon or two of the vinegar and raw honey.

5. Beets or Beet Juice

Beets, characterized by their deep, dark red color, contain boron. This element helps balance calcium intake and remove metals and other compounds, like fluoride. Beets are also loaded with B vitamins to help sustain energy and encourage cellular health.

One Final Thought

To restore your pineal gland, you first need to eliminate sources of fluoride and cut out junk foods, especially soda. If you don't change this part of your diet, you won't gain any ground by eating these five foods. Other foods like cilantro, garlic, lemon juice, and coconut oil may help you detox. It also may be worth considering a full body detox to reduce your body's acidity and further remove heavy metals and toxins.

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

  1. Arjoon AV1, Saylor CV, May M. In Vitro efficacy of antimicrobial extracts against the atypical ruminant pathogen Mycoplasma mycoides subsp. capri. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2012 Oct 2;12:169. doi: 10.1186/1472-6882-12-169.
  2. Domingo JL, Gómez M, Llobet JM, Corbella J. Comparative effects of several chelating agents on the toxicity, distribution and excretion of aluminum. Hum Toxicol. 1988 May;7(3):259-62.

The post Top 5 Foods for the Pineal Gland appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

Wednesday, January 28, 2015

6 Crazy Facts about the Toxins in Makeup

6 Crazy Facts about the Toxins in Makeup

Link to Dr. Group's Healthy Living blog

6 Crazy Facts about the Toxins in Makeup

Posted: 27 Jan 2015 08:00 AM PST

woman-putting-on-makeup

Just about all of us use some type of personal care product, but did you know that many of these items contain a slew of toxic compounds? Sometimes using a product simply to improve your appearance can do more harm than good. That's why I want to go over these 6 crazy facts you might not know about your makeup.

6 Facts about the Toxins in Makeup

The toxins in your makeup are hiding, waiting for their opportunity to attach themselves to your skin and ultimately make their way into your body. These toxins can interfere with hormonal health, which is a huge issue considering that hormones regulate practically everything. Here are some of the crazy facts about the toxins that might be lurking in your makeup cabinet.

1. Cosmetics Contain Brain-Poisoning Aluminum

While people have long since known about aluminum poisoning, a recent report claims that toxic deposits of the metal could also lead to an increased risk for Alzheimer's. [1] Many of your personal products, like cosmetics, sunscreen, antiperspirants, and even certain medications can contain aluminum. It's not just these things, though; aluminum might even be added into your food. For example, manufacturers use aluminum sulphate in water for better clarity.

2. Talc May Contain Asbestos

Common in cosmetics, talc can often become mixed with asbestos during mining and manufacturing. Recently, scientists were actually able to track the route of asbestos and talc from origin to exposure. Over the course of a year, the team traced it from the mines to the product to the lung tissue of a deceased mesothelioma patient who had used the body powder for years. [2]

3. Swimming Pools Accumulate Cosmetic Toxins

Pools are normally a place for exercise or relaxation, but a report from late 2014 suggests a possible health risk. [3] In the first study of its kind, researchers noted many personal products were present in pool water samples. As swimmers don't normally shower before swimming, toxins from the products wash off their skin. Many don't break down in chlorination as originally thought. These chemicals form an ultra concentrated toxic soup that can be swallowed, breathed in, or absorbed.

4. Makeup and Lotion Can Contain Parabens and Phthalates

Personal products aren't well regulated, so a lot of nasty stuff can make it on the shelves. Many moisturizers and lotions can contain endocrine-disrupting phthalates or parabens, and, what's worse, some "green" products are even guilty. [4] Not only toxic to reproduction, these chemicals are linked to an increased risk of cancer. Studies also suggest the more products you use, the higher the concentrations of phthalates and parabens in your body. [5]

5. Cosmetics Can Contain Bacteria

It's not just chemical toxins–bacteria can also be present in cosmetics. Usually when that happens, a recall takes place. Thousands of products are recalled each year due to this type of contamination, but thanks to lax industry regulations I mentioned earlier, those are usually kept quiet. It might surprise you, but the FDA doesn't have the authority to order a company to pull a personal product. [6] While it can make a request, it's the manufacturer that has to take that step.

6. Beware of Microbeads

Unfortunately, we also have to worry about microbeads in the environment. Manufacturers have been adding these tiny plastic beads to body washes and toothpastes for years, and now they're washing down our drains into our lakes and rivers where they'll collect toxins and get eaten by fish. [7] The magnitude of this problem is absolutely astounding and the lack of attention it's getting in the mainstream press is maddening. Luckily, many states are limiting or banning them, and there could even be a federal ban on the horizon.

Homemade Baking Soda Deodorant Recipe

Fortunately today, there are some ways you can avoid these poisons while taking care of your beauty needs. Never feel like you can't take control of the personal care industry. After all, two huge firms recently announced their plans to disclose all fragrances used in their products. Traditionally, the term "fragrance" could be just about anything—usually toxic—so this is a huge win for consumers.

Someone here at Global Healing Center, fed up with the nasty toxins in conventional antiperspirants, even made her own powerful deodorant using four pretty common ingredients. Not only is there no aluminum, but, so far, it really works! I've even provided her easy natural deodorant recipe for you.

  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • ¼ cup baking soda
  • 4-5 tablespoons coconut oil

Optional: 8-10 drops essential oil(s)

On the stovetop over low heat, combine both powder ingredients in a small saucepan. Add the coconut oil one tablespoon at a time, gently stirring, until the consistency is much like dough. After removing from heat, add drops of essential oil(s) to your mixture, continuing to stir. Finally, spoon your mix into a small glass container and allow to cool.

The mix will remain hard under most temperature conditions, so before applying, you might need to remove the lid and briefly heat the container to soften the contents. A small pan of boiling water will work. When applying, a light coating to your underarms should be fine. Baking soda can be abrasive to some, so you might need to substitute arrowroot powder or adjust your amounts.

One Final Thought

In today's world, consumers are finally becoming more aware of the toxins in their favorite personal care products. More women are demanding toxin-free makeup options, and manufacturers are slowly beginning to feel the heat. Some organic, paraben-free, and natural cosmetics are available both online and in some stores. Look out for these cosmetics and test them out on your skin to see if they're a good fit. Also, it may help to write to your favorite cosmetic brand asking for a formula that is health friendly.

What do you do to avoid toxins in your makeup? Please share with us your tips in the comments!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

  1. Exley, C. Why industry propaganda and political interference cannot disguise the inevitable role played by human exposure to aluminum in neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease. Frontiers in Neurology.
  2. Gordon, RE. et al. Asbestos in commercial cosmetic talcum powder as a cause of mesothelioma in women. International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health. 20 (4).
  3. Weng, S. et al. The Presence of Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products in Swimming Pools. Environmental Science & Technology Letters. 1 (12).
  4. Brody, JG, et al. Endocrine Disruptors and Asthma-Associated Chemicals in Consumer Products. Environmental Health Perspectives. 120 (7).
  5. Braun, J. et al. Personal care product use and urinary phthalate metabolite and paraben concentrations during pregnancy among women from a fertility clinic. Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology. 24.
  6. Federal Drug Administration. FDA Recall Policy for Cosmetics. U.S. Food & Drug Administration.
  7. Koelmans A. Plastics in the marine environment. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. 33 (5).

The post 6 Crazy Facts about the Toxins in Makeup appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Tuesday, January 27, 2015

Breaking news! Another artificial chemical bites the dust.

I am sitting here in total awe right now.

My new book The Food Babe Way isn't even out yet and it's already changing a company - another multi-billion dollar company!

To see the latest change - you've got to read my breaking news post here - it's amazing this is already making headlines in the USA Today. 

This is just the beginning.

I love you!

Vani 

P.S. It's crazy that I have already had to send in an edit for the next printing of my book and it's not even out yet! I have a feeling I'll be going back to my publisher a lot because of your amazing collective power to carry this message. I simply can't wait for you to have your hands on this book.

 

***My new book The Food Babe Way is available now - please get your copy here with exclusive bonuses and spread the word!***



P.O. Box 31521 Charlotte, NC 28231

If you would like to stop receiving free food investigations, recipes and healthy living tips, click here.

What is Meditation

What is Meditation

Link to Dr. Group's Healthy Living blog

What is Meditation

Posted: 26 Jan 2015 08:00 AM PST

sitting-meditation

Many people imagine meditation as a deep and complicated spiritual practice involving incomprehensible mantras and unobtainable seating postures. The reality is that anyone can practice meditation, nearly immediately, and it can be done in a variety of ways. Simply put, meditation is the suspension of linear thought and the connection to a deeper level of consciousness that dwells beneath the surface of the mind, also known as the subconscious mind or soul.

What is Meditation?

Meditation has been a part of human life from the very beginning of our culture. It has been key to mind-body harmony, mental discipline, and peak personal performance.

There are almost as many ways to meditate as there are human beings on the planet. Gautama Buddha alone taught more than 30,000 types of meditation. There have been countless other teachers, sages, masters, and prophets of various sorts who, over the last several thousand years, have practiced and passed on methods that are key to accessing the better part of the self — the innately divine and truthful part of the personality.

Is Meditation Purely Spiritual?

Regardless of what you may have been taught, you do not have to subscribe to any particular belief system to meditate; I mentioned Buddhist teachings only as one example. Today, people from every walk of life and from the widest spectrum of beliefs you can imagine meditate to access this deeper and innately higher level of awareness. We cannot categorize this practice any more than we categorize humanity itself.

The Benefits of Meditation

Meditation relaxes the mind and switches the body into the parasympathetic state. This state is essential for repairing the body, activating the immune system, and improving digestion. [1] Research shows that meditation may also support normal blood sugar and reduce the risk of respiratory infections. [2] [3] Benefits of meditation extend beyond health; in fact, many people use meditation in order to clear their minds and tackle projects that require conscious awareness and lucid thinking.

There are executives who meditate to help them maintain professional objectivity, and professional athletes who practice concentration and visualization to maximize their performance. [4] There are Christians, Muslims, and Jews who incorporate some form of meditation into their prayers. There are also people with no religion at all who meditate to control their minds.

Many in today's Consciousness Movement believe that daily meditation is essential to spiritual awakening. These groups also teach, in one way or another, that the linear thinking of the ego must become subordinated to a higher awareness that will allow the true self to be finally discovered and expressed. Persons who subscribe to this point of view may even go so far to say that the true destiny of the individual cannot be fulfilled unless this deeper level of awareness is consistently accessed and integrated into one's daily behavior. Regardless of our spiritual beliefs, psychological knowledge, or social inclinations, anyone who wants to improve the quality of their life can use meditation to tap into the best part of themselves and allow it to emerge in their daily activities and relationships.

Simple Meditation

One of the simplest forms of meditation is mindfulness meditation. This meditation practice involves becoming aware of your thoughts, body sensations, and surroundings without projecting any judgement or resistance. During the practice, you focus on your breathing and relax each muscle in your body. You can be in any position that is comfortable to you. If thoughts, sensations, or noises arise, let them. They will pass and dissolve.

Do you meditate? What have been your experiences? Leave a comment and tell us how it's affected your life!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

  1. Davidson RJ, Kabat-Zinn J, Schumacher J, et al. Alterations in brain and immune function produced by mindfulness meditation. Psychosom Med. 2003 Jul-Aug;65(4):564-70.
  2. Teresa M. Edenfield and Sy Atezaz Saeed. An update on mindfulness meditation as a self-help treatment for anxiety and depression. Psychol Res Behav Manag. 2012; 5: 131-141. doi: 10.2147/PRBM.S34937.
  3. Barrett B, Hayney MS, Muller D, et al. Meditation or exercise for preventing acute respiratory infection: a randomized controlled trial. Ann Fam Med. 2012 Jul-Aug;10(4):337-46. doi: 10.1370/afm.1376.
  4. Heleen A. Slagter, Richard J. Davidson, and Antoine Lutz. Mental Training as a Tool in the Neuroscientific Study of Brain and Cognitive Plasticity. Front Hum Neurosci. 2011; 5: 17. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2011.00017.

The post What is Meditation appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

Monday, January 26, 2015

Please skip the Doritos!

I've got some recipes for you that will knock your socks off! Skip the usual Doritos, chicken wings and fried mozzarella sticks on Super Bowl Sunday and try one of these instead:

  • Sweet Potato Skins (New!)- These babies are so good I've already eaten them a couple of times for lunch this week. They are crispy, packed with nutrients, and look beautiful served on a big platter. This appetizer has this sweet and salty thing going on that makes them just irresistible, they really hit the spot! Enjoy!!!
  • Creamy Kale & Artichoke Dip with Homemade Chips – This is an all time favorite and will please a big crowd, especially if you double the recipe. 
  • Almond Butter Brownies – no Super Bowl party is complete without brownies

May the best team win!

Xo,

Vani

P.S. I've got some intense posts and videos coming – so stay tuned. Xo!

 

***My new book The Food Babe Way is available now with exclusive gifts - This offer ends 2/9!***



P.O. Box 31521 Charlotte, NC 28231

If you would like to stop receiving free food investigations, recipes and healthy living tips, click here.

Benefits of Olive Oil for Skin

Benefits of Olive Oil for Skin

Link to Dr. Group's Healthy Living blog

Benefits of Olive Oil for Skin

Posted: 25 Jan 2015 08:00 AM PST

olive-oil-in-glass

Homer once described olive oil as 'liquid gold,' a term that still resonates with many. Fortunately, we do not have to fight wars over olive oil anymore as it is abundantly produced in many parts of the world and readily available. We all know that olive oil is one of the healthiest vegetable oils in the world, along with coconut oil. Not only can you consume this nutritious food and receive numerous benefits, you can also use it to boost the nutrient value of your beauty products.

4 Benefits of Olive Oil for Skin

Adding olive oil to your beauty routine may provide immense benefits to your skin, hair, and nails. Here are some of the olive oil skin benefits you may find surprising.

1. Antioxidant Protection

Olive oil contains three major antioxidants: vitamin E, polyphenols, and phytosterols. Antioxidants, when topically applied, may help protect the skin from premature skin aging. Vitamin E partly accounts for the anti-aging benefits of olive oil because it helps restore skin smoothness and protects against ultraviolet light. [1] Hydroxytyrosol, a rather rare compound found in olive oil, also prevents free radical damage to the skin. [2]

2. Doesn't Clog Pores

Unlike commercial moisturizers that can clog pores and exacerbate current skin conditions, olive oil penetrates deeply into the skin while providing a cleansing effect. Try using organic olive oil at night as a substitute for your regular moisturizer. Apply a teaspoon of the oil to the face and neck. Gently pat the skin with a paper towel to wipe away any excess oil.

3. Enhances Exfoliation

Another one of olive oil's benefits for skin is its usefulness in exfoliating applications. A common exfoliating method using olive oil is to mix 1 tablespoon of the oil with natural sea salt, rubbing this mixture over the skin. The mild abrasive qualities of the sea salt, combined with the deep, penetrating action of the oil, will remove dead skin cells and leave the epidermis looking renewed and glowing.

4. General Beauty Booster

Olive oil is also used for nail and cuticle care, and many women use it as an eye makeup remover. Further applications include using it as an ingredient in homemade facial masks. One other interesting application for both men and women is the substitution of olive oil for shaving cream. Many men have abandoned shaving cream once they discovered how close a shave they can get with olive oil. Men and women alike have also found its refreshing qualities make it an excellent aftershave.

A Final Thought

Because of the many skin benefits olive oil provides, organic skin care products such as O2-Zap often use olive oil as a key, active ingredient. Olive oil creams, cosmetics, and body lotions are more popular than ever for self-administered skin care, because more people are finding that it works better than commercial moisturizers.

Do you use olive oil in your skin care routine? What tips or suggestions do you have? Please share with us in the comments!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

  1. Ruta Ganceviciene, Aikaterini I. Liakou, Athanasios Theodoridis, Evgenia Makrantonaki, and Christos C. Zouboulis. Skin anti-aging strategies. Dermatoendocrinol. Jul 1, 2012; 4(3): 308-319. doi: 10.4161/derm.22804.
  2. D'Angelo S, Ingrosso D, Migliardi V, et al. Hydroxytyrosol, a natural antioxidant from olive oil, prevents protein damage induced by long-wave ultraviolet radiation in melanoma cells. Free Radic Biol Med. 2005 Apr 1;38(7):908-18.

The post Benefits of Olive Oil for Skin appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

Sunday, January 25, 2015

5 Things You’re Not Being Told About Fukushima

5 Things You’re Not Being Told About Fukushima

Link to Dr. Group's Healthy Living blog

5 Things You’re Not Being Told About Fukushima

Posted: 24 Jan 2015 07:00 AM PST

fukushima-sign

In March 2011, a massive earthquake and an ensuing tsunami triggered the meltdown of three nuclear reactors at the Fukushima Daiichi Power Plant. Almost 4 years later we're still seeing repercussions of the disaster, and the effects will likely continue for decades. This disaster is contributing to untold health concerns and environmental damage.

Five Things You Should Know About Fukushima

While you may have heard information about Fukushima in the news, there are some stories the mainstream media isn't covering. Let's dive into 5 things you're not being told about the Fukushima situation.

1. Two Trillion Becquerels of Radioactive Material Escaped Reactor 1

A recent report from the Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) says 2 trillion becquerels of radiation may have flowed into the Fukushima power plant bay in a short amount of time. From August 2013 to May 2014, documents estimate that the No. 1 reactor leaked more than 10 times the limit of radioactive material TEPCO set before the meltdown. [1] That's a lot of radiation drifting out into the Pacific Ocean!

2. US West Coast Will Experience Peak Radiation in 2015

Scientific reports suggest levels of Cesium-137 will peak in water supplies on the US West Coast and in Canada by the end of this year. [2] Cesium-137 is a radioactive isotope that presents a strong danger to human health. After drinking contaminated water, your body's tissues can be exposed to low levels of gamma and beta radiation which could increase your risk for certain types of cancer. [3]

3. Thyroid Cancer is Spreading in Japan

Radiation in water is just one concern; thyroid cancer, often linked to radiation exposure, is on the rise among youth in the Fukushima Prefecture. Local government officials want to downplay a connection to radiation from the triple meltdown and these new cases of cancer. While it's still too soon to determine an actual cause, experts agree that the rate of incidence is disturbingly high. [4]

4. Japan is Planning to Build More Nuclear Plants

After the natural disasters that led to the Fukushima meltdown, all of Japan's nuclear reactors were suspended. In 2012, the Japanese government created a regulatory agency to restore public confidence in nuclear power. Recently, the agency approved the reopening of 2 of Japan's 48 reactors. [5] There are many that believe the safety certification of the two reactors at Sendai Power Plant was pushed by the current government. The current prime minister is unashamedly pro-nuclear and wants to reopen and build more reactors. But, in an earthquake-prone country, is this really the best idea?

5. Experts Can't Agree on the Health Dangers

With a pro-nuclear government in power, Japan is seeing something similar to what happened in Ukraine after Chernobyl. Nuclear authorities tend to deny the negative results reported by researchers in an attempt to further their goals; in this case, a return to nuclear power. [6] Many scientists are rather miffed with a watered-down UN report that came out in late 2013. [7] They argue it ignored negative scientific studies and lacked documentation for certain claims, leaving some worried that authorities won't acknowledge the radiation threat until it's too late. [8]

Fukushima is a Bad Situation

The Fukushima disaster has left us a terrible legacy we can't give back. Unfortunately, the Japanese—especially those in the Fukushima Prefecture—can't even drink their sorrows away. The sake brewers there are finding no one wants to buy their products due to reports of contaminated rice and water. [9]

What do you think about the Fukushima disaster? Please tell us your thoughts and/or concerns in the comments.

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

  1. The Japan Times. Two trillion becquerels of radioactive material may have escaped No. 1. The Japan Times.
  2. Smith, J. et al. Arrival of the Fukushima radioactivity plume in North American continental waters. Proceedings of the Natural Academy of Science.
  3. Davies, L. Increasing Incidence of Thyroid Cancer in the United States, 1973-2002. The Journal of the American Medical Association. 295 (18).
  4. Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey. Proceedings of the 17th Prefectural Oversight Committee Meeting for Fukushima Health Management Survey. Fukushima Radiation and Health.
  5. Fackler, M. Three Years After Fukushima, Japan Approves a Nuclear Plant. The New York Times.
  6. Boyd, J. Experts clash on Fukushima radiation effects. Aljazeera.
  7. United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation. UNSCEAR 2013 Report. United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation.
  8. Imanaka, Tetsuji. Current Topics about the Radiological Consequences by the Chernobyl Accident. Research Reactor Institute, Kyoto University .
  9. Balfour, B. The woes of Fukushima’s sake brewers. BBC News.

The post 5 Things You’re Not Being Told About Fukushima appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Saturday, January 24, 2015

Beet Juice Recipe with Liver Cleansing Foods

Beet Juice Recipe with Liver Cleansing Foods

Link to Dr. Group's Healthy Living blog

Beet Juice Recipe with Liver Cleansing Foods

Posted: 23 Jan 2015 07:00 AM PST

beets-and-juice

Your liver is your main detoxifying organ, and it can get bogged down from time to time depending on your diet, activity level, and environment. When an overload of toxins becomes too much for your liver to handle, toxic compounds can store within tissues and decrease your quality of health. Cleansing your liver with a liver detox can be helpful for revving up the function of your body's natural detox mechanisms.

Juice Your Way to Health

If you're cleansing your liver, you need to provide your body with nutrition that is easy to digest. You don't want your body to spend its energy digesting food, but you definitely need to keep a good balance of nutrients, electrolytes, and antioxidants to provide support during the detox. Juicing is a powerful way to support the cleansing of your liver without compromising the body's natural healing process.

Here's a potent juice cocktail you can make during the cleansing process:

Ingredients:

  • 3 Organic Carrots (peeled and washed)
  • 1 Organic Beet (peeled and washed)
  • 2 Organic Red Apples (washed and cut)
  • 6 Organic Kale Leaves
  • ½ inch of ginger root
  • ½ organic lemon, peeled

Serving: 2-4 servings.

Directions:

If you don't have a juicer, just use a blender filled with with one to two cups of water. Place all of the ingredients in a juicer and juice or in a blender and blend. If you used a juicer, make sure to stir with a spoon. If you used a blender, make sure to strain everything using a colander and then mix with a spoon.

Serve with some ice to keep it cool and enjoy! You can use mason jars to store it for later.

Why These Ingredients?

Here's a quick overview of why we chose these liver cleansing foods for the liver cleanse juice recipe.

Beets and Carrots

Beets and carrots are extremely high in plant-flavonoids and beta-carotene (vitamin A). Eating these ingredients, along with other plant foods containing similar nutrients, can help stimulate and improve overall liver function.

Apples

High in pectin, apples hold the chemical constituents necessary for the body to cleanse and release toxins from the digestive tract. This, in turn, makes it easier for the liver to handle the toxic load during the cleansing process.

Kale

One of our most powerful allies in cleansing the liver, leafy greens such as kale can be eaten raw, cooked, or juiced. Extremely high in plant chlorophylls, greens suck up environmental toxins from the bloodstream. With their distinct ability to neutralize toxic metals, chemicals, and pesticides, these cleansing foods offer a powerful protective mechanism for the liver.

Ginger Root

Ginger has also been historically used for flatulence, constipation, bloating, and other digestive complaints. In addition to these gastro-protective effects, researchers have found ginger to be effective for stress-related ulcers.

Lemons

Citrus fruits, such as lemons, contain very high amounts of vitamin C, which aids the body in synthesizing toxic materials into substances that can be absorbed by water. Drinking freshly-squeezed lemon or lime juice in the morning helps stimulate the liver.

Did you enjoy this recipe? Please let us know your favorite juicing recipes!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

The post Beet Juice Recipe with Liver Cleansing Foods appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

Friday, January 23, 2015

Organic.org

Organic.org


27 Diagrams That Make Cooking So Much Easier

Posted: 23 Jan 2015 10:49 AM PST

Including easy ingredient substitutions, basic knife skills, meat marinating times, and more. 

1. For making your own vinaigrette


Which you should be doing, instead of buying the bottled stuff. It's healthier and tastier, and it's really not hard. Here's everything you need to know about building a better salad.

2. For making substitutions when you're missing an ingredient.


Pretty awesome. [via]

3. For cooking red meat exactly how you like it.


If you're going splurge on a really great piece of meat, you'd better know how to cook it to temperature. If you need more help, here's how to make the perfect steak.

4. For spicing things up.


Sure, you can just dump a bunch of spices into your stew and it'll taste good. But, you can take your home cooking to a whole new level if you really know which spices taste best with which foods. [via]

5. For making any soup from scratch.


It's actually s(o)uper easy to make a healthy, warming winter meal. [via]

6. For Metric conversions.

[via]


7. For boiling eggs:

Cooking time varies depending on whether you like your yolks soft or hard. Here's exactly how to boil an egg.

8. For volumetric conversions.


Why do math when this chart has all the answers?

9. For cooking with and maintaining a cast iron skillet.


Cast iron skillets are great for cooking because they're good heat conductors, meaning they get super hot, stay super hot, and cook your food evenly. They're especially great for getting a delicious, crispy crust on meat. Here's everything you need to know about owning a cast iron skillet.

10. For making sure you're using the right kitchen appliance.


Good cooks know that sometimes it's better to leave the hard work to a machine. Just make sure you're using the right one.

11. For marinating meat to make it tender and delicious.

No more dry chicken. Here's more about using marinades to make delicious food.

12. For knowing what oil to use.

 


It's important to know the smoke point of the oil you're cooking with so that you don't set off your smoke alarm and ruin your food. [via]

13. For when you're too heavy-handed with the chili peppers.


It's a shame when you spend all evening making a great dish, only to find that it's intolerably spicy. Here's how to tone down the heat.

14. For your next trip to the butcher.


Knowing the difference between cuts of meat means you'll always be able to go into a butcher or grocery store and ask for exactly what you want. Plus, it makes for impressive dinner conversation. Full infographic here.

15. For knife skills.

A sharp knife is a cook's most important tool. Knowing how to use it means anything in the kitchen is possible. [via]

16. For knowing what kind of onion to use.


You won't ruin a recipe by using a sweet onion when a red onion would have been better, but different onions have different characteristics—some are milder, some are sweeter, etc.—so it's good to know the difference. More info here.

17. For vegan baking.


You may have to experiment a little bit to figure out which replacement is best for particular recipes, but here's a good starter guide on egg substitutions.

18. For hosting a party.


Running out is not an option. Heather from Chickabug has plenty more tips for party planning, cooking and decorating.

19. For cooking your grains perfectly.

[via]

20. For making a sourdough starter.


Freshly baked bread forever! This is how to make the perfect sourdough boule.

21. For cooking vegetables.


Well, for boiling or steaming vegetables. [via]

22. For filleting fish.



They're much cheaper when you buy them whole, and filleting them yourself isn't that hard. [via]

23. For pasta lovers.


Impress anyone with your extensive noodle knowledge. Get the poster (or see a zoomed-in version) at Chasing Delicious.

24. For perfect chocolate chip cookies.


And by "perfect" I mean, "exactly the way you like them." Learn more about how to make the chocolate cookie you want.

25. For grilling everything.


Fire it up. [via]

26. For knowing what's in season.


Sure, you can find blueberries at the supermarket in December. They're just not going to taste very good. From The Best American Infographics.

27. For knowing exactly how to store your groceries, and for how long.



You can't be a be a better cook if you're throwing away rotten food all the time. [via]
[via BuzzFeed]