Because we have had such success with our free online class series, we have added yet another one in the new year.
January 5, 2011 7pm-8pm
What is Naturopathy: Did you know there are many natural health modalities that you can work with to improve your health? Did you know that many people heal themselves naturally using some of these methods? Do you know what Naturopathy is and how it can benefit your family?
Come learn about the history of Naturopathy and how to incorporate it into your daily life! Also, learn about the difference between Naturopathic medicine and conventional medicine.
You can find our online 'classroom' by going to our website at www.psychehealing.com and clicking on "Online Classroom."
While you are there, you can jump into the chat and ask questions.
See you then!
Showing posts with label natural health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label natural health. Show all posts
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Healthy Fall/Winter Soup: Jerusalem Artichoke, Potato, & Leek Soup
One of my favorite fall foods is hearty artichoke (Jerusalem), potato and leek soup. This recipe is so warming, especially on a cold fall/winter night!
First I start out by washing all of my vegetables, especially the root vegetables since they usually have lots of dirt!
Here is a list of the ingredients to buy:
3 leeks
10-12 Jerusalem artichokes (you can add more if you grow them and have a lot)
3-5 medium to large potatoes
Sea salt (to your taste, everyone is different)
2 Bay leaves
Pinch of rosemary
3-5 cloves of garlic
1 tablespoon of organic butter
Sprinkle of oregano and basil
Any other spices to taste
1 medium onion
The best thing about preparing food is making it up as you go! I always smell my spices to determine if they would taste good in the dish. To me, this is the best recipe! Experiment as you make this soup! See what you like!
Cut up your leeks (make sure you wash them well since sand and rocks will get stuck in between the layers), potatoes and Jerusalem artichokes. Add to boiling water. Put all spices in and bring to a boil. Let boil for 5 minutes or so and then turn down to low. Cook this for 3-8 hours before you eat. The longer this soup simmers the better it will taste!
As you are nearing completion, give your soup a taste test! Add more sea salt if you haven't added enough. Also, add any other spice you think might add flavor t your soup. This taste is different for everybody. Now is the time to add the butter. Also, now is the time to add your cut up onion. Let your soup cook just until the onion turns soft.
Finally, ENJOY! You will be impressed by this nourishing and easy to make soup!
____________________________________________________
Svea is a traditional Naturopath, classical homeopath and holistic doula. Her private doula practice can be found here.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
The Truth About the Flu Shot
Now is the time of year where we see "Flu Shots Here" all over the place. It is the time of changing seasons, and also the time of "catching" the flu. Many people live in fear of the flu and get a shot to protect against the virus, but are they doing anything else to protect themselves?
Since this is my blog, I am going to express myself openly and freely about vaccines, specifically the flu vaccine. If you know me, then you know that I am against all vaccines. I believe in your body's innate ability to fight these diseases and also to be protected against them (as well as the healing power of nature medicine).
First, in my experience with this specific vaccine, I have noticed that although people get the vaccine, they still get the flu. Doesn't this seem ironic? They get a vaccine to protect against the virus and then get the virus anyway. We also see this with many other vaccines, including the chickenpox vaccine. The vaccine companies never claim to protect against all strains of flu virus. In fact, they state that their vaccine doesn't protect against all strains of the virus, but instead only a select few they think might be popular that year.
In 2009, we experienced the H1N1 flu "outbreak" hype. In Michigan (and I'm sure other states too), many schools were closed because so many children were infected with a flu virus. Many people were weary of getting the vaccine since it was such a "new" thing and they didn't know what it would do for their health (the vaccine). Many other people lined up in herds to get the vaccine. I, on the other hand, did not get the vaccine. Local health departments experienced shortages and some people were even turned away. I'm sure you all remember this experience. So what happened with the H1N1 hype?
Well... nothing, really. Some people died, yes. But, less people died from this flu than the regular seasonal flu. I also saw a tremendous amount of people that were affected or injured by the flu vaccine. People developed neurological disorders over night and some pregnant women lost their babies. To me, the injury from the flu vaccine was worse than the actual flu. And, drug companies made WAY more vaccine than what was actually used, so they had to deal with the excess vaccine. Guess what folks.... THEY ARE PUTTING THESE EXCESS H1N1 VACCINES IN THE SEASONAL FLU VACCINE.
Also, vaccines are very toxic substances. There are many different ingredients, including egg proteins, polysorbate 80 (carcinogenic), formaldehyde, Triton X100 ( a strong detergent ), sucrose, gentamycin (an antibiotic), and thimerosol.
Thimerosol is the ingredient that contains high amounts of mercury. If you know anything about health, then you know that mercury is toxic to your system... this is one reason why they no longer have mercury thermometers, or other products with mercury. The mercury in one vaccine is enough to shut down a 10 acre lake (if found in the water). This mercury is also a huge culprit in the cause of autism, and other neurological disorders that children are developing.
Essentially, autism was unheard of 20 years ago, even 10 years ago. When I was in school, I didn't know one student who had autism. If you go into a public school now, many children have autism and the numbers are growing. The beautiful thing about the human body is that it can regenerate. Most doctors tell you that autism is not reversible, however, I know that it is. If you are a parent of a child with autism, remember, there is hope. I see many parents who think there is no hope, but by fixing the diet and doing simple cleanses, their children begin to speak, begin to interact, and begin to heal.
The flu is a virus that is contagious. We all know that. But, why do some people get the flu and others do not? If your immune system is strong enough, it will fight the flu virus right away. You might have the virus on you or inside of you, but the body will destroy it immediately. If your immune system is worn down, the virus might have more time to incubate in your body and replicate. After a few days the body will recruit its helpers to get rid of the foreign pathogen. It is at this time that you will begin to feel sick...when the body is in full attack mode. This is a common misunderstanding about the flu, most people think it is the virus that is causing you to feel so bad, but, it is the body's immune system attacking the virus and killing it.
This process requires a strong immune system, and unless you are eating healthy, exercising, and stress-free, then you probably have a weakened immune system. The immune system can become weakened from many different things, including: stress, environmental toxins, heavy metals (like mercury in the flu vaccine), prescription medications, poor mental attitude, fear, unhealthy food, and many more.
There are natural things that you can do to prevent the flu!
First and foremost, do not live in a state of fear. Do not fear the flu! Incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet (raw and local preferably) and exercise daily. Echinacea is a big immune system herb and will help to protect you in this season of the flu. Astragalus is also great for an immune boost, as well as wheatgrass juice. If you do start feeling ill, you can take goldenseal to help your body get rid of the virus immediately. If you are in the midst of the flu virus, you can turn to homeopathy for quick relief. Homeopathy is another topic for another time, but is available. It was the only treatment that provided relief during the time of the 1918-1919 Spanish flu (many homeopaths did not lose any of their patients during this very deadly flu!).
And, always remember, if you take care of your body, it will take care of you!
Since this is my blog, I am going to express myself openly and freely about vaccines, specifically the flu vaccine. If you know me, then you know that I am against all vaccines. I believe in your body's innate ability to fight these diseases and also to be protected against them (as well as the healing power of nature medicine).
First, in my experience with this specific vaccine, I have noticed that although people get the vaccine, they still get the flu. Doesn't this seem ironic? They get a vaccine to protect against the virus and then get the virus anyway. We also see this with many other vaccines, including the chickenpox vaccine. The vaccine companies never claim to protect against all strains of flu virus. In fact, they state that their vaccine doesn't protect against all strains of the virus, but instead only a select few they think might be popular that year.
In 2009, we experienced the H1N1 flu "outbreak" hype. In Michigan (and I'm sure other states too), many schools were closed because so many children were infected with a flu virus. Many people were weary of getting the vaccine since it was such a "new" thing and they didn't know what it would do for their health (the vaccine). Many other people lined up in herds to get the vaccine. I, on the other hand, did not get the vaccine. Local health departments experienced shortages and some people were even turned away. I'm sure you all remember this experience. So what happened with the H1N1 hype?
Well... nothing, really. Some people died, yes. But, less people died from this flu than the regular seasonal flu. I also saw a tremendous amount of people that were affected or injured by the flu vaccine. People developed neurological disorders over night and some pregnant women lost their babies. To me, the injury from the flu vaccine was worse than the actual flu. And, drug companies made WAY more vaccine than what was actually used, so they had to deal with the excess vaccine. Guess what folks.... THEY ARE PUTTING THESE EXCESS H1N1 VACCINES IN THE SEASONAL FLU VACCINE.
Also, vaccines are very toxic substances. There are many different ingredients, including egg proteins, polysorbate 80 (carcinogenic), formaldehyde, Triton X100 ( a strong detergent ), sucrose, gentamycin (an antibiotic), and thimerosol.
Thimerosol is the ingredient that contains high amounts of mercury. If you know anything about health, then you know that mercury is toxic to your system... this is one reason why they no longer have mercury thermometers, or other products with mercury. The mercury in one vaccine is enough to shut down a 10 acre lake (if found in the water). This mercury is also a huge culprit in the cause of autism, and other neurological disorders that children are developing.
Essentially, autism was unheard of 20 years ago, even 10 years ago. When I was in school, I didn't know one student who had autism. If you go into a public school now, many children have autism and the numbers are growing. The beautiful thing about the human body is that it can regenerate. Most doctors tell you that autism is not reversible, however, I know that it is. If you are a parent of a child with autism, remember, there is hope. I see many parents who think there is no hope, but by fixing the diet and doing simple cleanses, their children begin to speak, begin to interact, and begin to heal.
The flu is a virus that is contagious. We all know that. But, why do some people get the flu and others do not? If your immune system is strong enough, it will fight the flu virus right away. You might have the virus on you or inside of you, but the body will destroy it immediately. If your immune system is worn down, the virus might have more time to incubate in your body and replicate. After a few days the body will recruit its helpers to get rid of the foreign pathogen. It is at this time that you will begin to feel sick...when the body is in full attack mode. This is a common misunderstanding about the flu, most people think it is the virus that is causing you to feel so bad, but, it is the body's immune system attacking the virus and killing it.
This process requires a strong immune system, and unless you are eating healthy, exercising, and stress-free, then you probably have a weakened immune system. The immune system can become weakened from many different things, including: stress, environmental toxins, heavy metals (like mercury in the flu vaccine), prescription medications, poor mental attitude, fear, unhealthy food, and many more.
There are natural things that you can do to prevent the flu!
First and foremost, do not live in a state of fear. Do not fear the flu! Incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet (raw and local preferably) and exercise daily. Echinacea is a big immune system herb and will help to protect you in this season of the flu. Astragalus is also great for an immune boost, as well as wheatgrass juice. If you do start feeling ill, you can take goldenseal to help your body get rid of the virus immediately. If you are in the midst of the flu virus, you can turn to homeopathy for quick relief. Homeopathy is another topic for another time, but is available. It was the only treatment that provided relief during the time of the 1918-1919 Spanish flu (many homeopaths did not lose any of their patients during this very deadly flu!).
And, always remember, if you take care of your body, it will take care of you!
_________________________________________________
Svea is a traditional Naturopath, classical homeopath and holistic doula. Her private doula practice can be found here.
Friday, October 1, 2010
The Joys of Juicing
The pasteurization process uses heat to destroy the bacteria in different substances, like juice or milk. In this process, many vital nutrients are destroyed, as well as beneficial enzymes. When we eat a raw apple, we receive enzymes from the apple to help us digest that specific fruit. The same goes for any raw fruit or vegetable out there...they all contain these very beneficial enzymes.
If you look at the ingredient label on juice, you might find that they add "ascorbic acid", and that the juice contains 100% Vitamin C. To me this is a false concept... the natural vitamin C that the juice originally contained was killed in the pasteurization process, so the company adds "ascorbic acid" which is vitamin C--making it seem like the product is a whole product.
In knowing this, why wouldn't you want a product that is whole and healthy? A product that contains many vital nutrients... a product that contributes toward your health? Juicing your own fruits and vegetables provides all of these things for you... enzymes, vitamins, minerals, increased energy and endurance throughout the day, and MUCH MORE!
The first step in making your own fresh juices is to purchase a juicer. My preference is for the Champion Juicer (and no, I'm not a salesman for the Champion Juicer). This juicer runs around $300, but is well worth it if you are planning on juicing every day or every other day. If this does not fit into your budget, you could purchase a smaller, less efficient juicer from a superstore like Meijer or Walmart. Next, you need to purchase your favorite fruits and vegetables (which should preferably be ripe, organic, and locally grown).
Juicing is simple and there are MANY different recipes. One of the simplest and best tasting juices contain:
1 apple
3 carrots
1/2 red beet
1 stick of celery
1/4 cup water
Raw juices are very easy to digest by the body, and the amount of nutrients absorbed is much greater than solid food. There are many benefits, which include:
- Anti-Aging Benefits
- Cellular Cleansing
- Increased Immunity (less sickness throughout the year)
- High antioxidant content
- Increased energy
- Healthier skin
- Whole-body regeneration
- Helps with constipation
...and MANY, MANY MORE!
Juicing is something that you can add to your daily life. You should juice every morning if possible, as it will prepare your body for food intake. It is also easily digested in the morning... much easier than a big breakfast of solid food. Raw juices contain many natural medicines that will help with many different conditions, especially if you focus on choosing the proper fruits and vegetables for your condition.
More tips on juicing:
-Make sure you drink the juice right away. Some vitamins and minerals are destroyed with heat and light, and the longer you let it sit out, the more you will lose. Try to drink your juice within 15 minutes of making it!-Clean your juicer right away. When the fruit/vegetable pulp dries on the juicer it is very difficult to clean. Do this immediately! Also, this pulp is great to put into your compost bin!
-Add bee pollen if you would like. Bee pollen is "nature's perfect food" and contains everything to sustain your life. It is one of the only foods that contain everything that you need to survive. This substance can be found at most health food stores and online. Make sure that you can find "local" bee pollen... this will be the most beneficial for you! Check back later for an entire article on bee pollen (it is one of my favorite!).
-Buy a variety of fruits and vegetables so you can try different recipes! Always try to add at least one vegetable, if not the majority. Carrots make a great juice that tastes sweet too!
-Add raw honey. This will not only make your juice sweet, but it will also provide you will many more vitamins and minerals! This might even help your allergies!
I encourage you all to add fresh, raw juice to your daily diet! You will see MANY benefits when you begin to do this. Children also love raw juices (although you should water their juices down a bit more than yours).
To your health!
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Sprouting 101
Sprouting For Life
Sprouts are one of the most balanced, living and raw foods out there. One of my favorite things to do in the kitchen is to "make" sprouts, and better yet, to eat them when they are ready! The nutritional profile of sprouts is very long as they contain many nutrients. In our home, we put sprouts on salads, in stir-fry, in curry dishes, or we just eat them by themselves.
What you will need to Sprout
A glass jar.
A lid for the glass jar that has holes poked into it (or a small square screen that can be banded shut--see picture below). Seeds must beable to breathe!
Directions:
Day 1: Soak seeds in high quality water for 24 hours.
Day 2: Pour water out of vessel, set container upside down in a dish strainer (see image below). In evening, rinse seeds thoroughly and then set in dish strainer again in upside-down/tilted position. Make sure to let all water strain out.
Day 3: Rinse seeds in morning, let strain in upside down position for the day. Repeat this again in the evening.
Continue to follow this pattern until your seeds begin to sprout. This should happen within three days.
After four to five days, your sprouts should be ready to eat. If you want them to grow a bit more, then continue to rinse them for a couple more days.
ENJOY! Eat your sprouts daily, and be sure to make more before you run out!
You will not only find yourself having more energy throughout the day from sprouts, but you will also see your health improve throughout time. Vital foods from nature, like sprouts, should be incorporated into your daily lifestyle.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
The Amazing Science of Iridology
In my opinion, Iridology is one of the Sacred Healing Traditions.
Have you ever noticed that everyone's eyes are different? There are many different colors, different markings, and even different shapes. Some people have beautiful blue eyes, while others have a deep brown.
In naturopathic medicine, we use many different non-invasive assessment tools. We make sure that these assessment tools are pain free, and that they use the body's innate ability to show signs of weakness. Iridology is the study of the iris (or colored part) of the eye to determine tissue weakness within the body.
It is said that there are only two true eye colors: blue and brown. I find this to be true amongst my family and friends. When a baby is born, they ALWAYS (through my research) have either blue eyes or brown eyes. Some babies eyes will change from blue to brown within weeks, others within years. If someone is born with blue eyes, that means that they have "true blue" eyes, even if they end up with brown later in life. Brown discoloration is a manifestation of tissue weakness within the body. When a baby is breastfed, I notice that their eyes stay blue a lot longer than babies who are formula fed. What does this say about formula? Since breast milk is MUCH healthier and easier to digest by babies, we can see why their eyes change from their true healthy state, to a state that shows tissue weakness.
If you have pretty green eyes, you actually have true blue eyes with a yellow discoloration present. This tells the iridologist what is going on in the body, and what action to take to correct it. If you look at the above photo, you will notice all of the markings in this iris. Each marking indicates something different, and also helps the practitioner to determine the best course of action for his/her clients.
I encourage you all to have an iridology reading, if not for health, then for general interest! You will be amazed when you see a large picture of your eye! If given the proper individualized plan you will begin to see changes in the iris within three months. One of my clients went from having completely brown eyes to having green eyes within a year, and now is starting to see blue on the outer parts of the iris! This client has gone through tremendous transformation and healing in his journey and is continuing to work hard! This is just one example of the many who see changes in their iris, and changes in their life through an iridology reading.
It is amazing what you can see in the iris. They say, our eyes are the windows to our soul!
Monday, September 20, 2010
Disturbing Facts About the Hepatitis B Vaccination
- The Hepatitis B risk groups are: Healthcare providers and emergency responders, sexually active heterosexuals (more than one partner in the last 6 months), men who have sex with men, and elicit drug users. Unless the mother has Hepatitis B, a 1-day old infant doesn’t fall into any of these categories. In addition, vaccine-induced antibodies decline gradually over approximately 7 years, and up to 60% of persons who initially respond will lose detectable antibodies within 12 years (CDC, unpublished data). So, by the time a child is even old enough to fall into any of the at-risk categories, their antibodies are no longer present.
- Journal of Autoimmune Disease in 1996 wrote, “There is no doubt that the new recombinant hepatitis B vaccine has the ability to trigger autoimmunity.” Now more than ever, children are being diagnosed with auto-immune illnesses like: juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, type-1 diabetes, Kawasaki disease, and myasthenia gravis. It is also said that other side effects of the Hepatitis B include: Guillian-Barre’ (paralysis syndrome that can be permanent), CNS demyelination (breaking down of fatty coating around the brain and nerves), colitis, autism and many more.
- The Journal of Autoimmunity reported that in order to create immunity you only need 10 IU/ml of antibody to form. The Hepatitis B vaccine can induce 2,000 IU/ml in ONE SHOT (reminder: there are three shots in the series). Instead of creating the antibodies against the disease, you now have a lot of extra antibodies and no hepatitis B to attack. What happens now? These antibodies find antigens on your cells that look like the hepatitis B virus, and attack. When these antibodies attack cells in the joints, you see rheumatoid arthritis. When they attack cells in the neuro-muscular junction, you see myasthenia gravis. The list goes on and on for diagnosis and adverse reactions.
- A premature 4 lb baby gets the same dosage of the hepatitis B vaccine as a 180 lb man. No other medication is given this way. Another shocking fact: “Infants born prematurely, regardless of birth weight, should be vaccinated at the same chronological age and according to the same schedules as full term infants… The full recommended dose of each vaccine should be used. Divided or reduced doses are not recommended.” Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report 1994
- Studies have NEVER been conducted on newborns…
- A manufacturer’s representative was asked in a 1997 Illinois Board of Health hearing to show evidence that the hepatitis B vaccine is safe for a 1-day old infant. The representative stated:
Stay away from this vaccine! If you feel like you are suffering from the effects of vaccine damage, contact your Naturopath or Natural Health Practitioner. Unlike conventional medicine states, there IS HOPE, and there are many different natural remedies and therapies that help with vaccine damage.
From the Chemical Fertilizer Plant to Your Drinking Water…
When you look at a tube of fluoridated toothpaste, you will see the warning: “Do not swallow,” and “in case of accidental ingestion, contact the poison control center.”
Why does toothpaste carry a warning but fluoridated water does not?
In a pea size amount of toothpaste there is a quarter milligram of fluoride (which is what causes this “do not swallow” warning). Interestingly, an 8 ounce glass of water contains the same amount of fluoride. We are told to drink eight of these glasses of water per day, yet without any concern of the amount of fluoride that we are ingesting. In addition to that, the American Dental Association (ADA) as well as the Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommend that infants NOT receive fluoridated water for drinking, nor for making their formula, as fluoridated water contains 250 times more fluoride than in mother’s milk. These warnings should raise red flags for the rest of us.
Where does fluoride come from?
The sad truth is that the source of fluoride used in the water supply comes from the super-phosphate fertilizer industry. What used to be a very harmful and toxic substance, that could NOT be disposed of in lakes or rivers, is now diluted and place into the water that we drink. In addition, what used to cost $400 million to dispose of, has now turned into a $180 million profit, being sold to public water works in 2/3 of the U.S. Are they making a profit at the expense of our health?
The answer is yes.
What does this harmful toxin do?
It has been reported that fluoride causes hyperactivity, brain damage, dementia, impaired neurodevelopment in children, hypothyroidism, bone fractures, lowered IQ, bone cancer, calcification of the pineal gland, and dental fluorosis. Dental fluorosis shows as abnormal white and brown spots on the teeth.
When this occurs, it can be indicative of the fact that the rest of the body has received too much fluoride as well, including the brain. All of these adverse health effects have been found over time in different scientific research articles.
But if this is such a harmful toxin, why do they continue to put it into the water?
Many U.S. cities add fluoride to their drinking water seeking to prevent tooth decay. However, in many different research articles, the countries that do not fluoridate their water have no more cavities than the ones that do. In fact, tooth decay has markedly declined in countries and communities that do not fluoridate drinking water as well as in those that do. Furthermore, in the places that do use fluoride, they report a much higher rate of dental fluorosis (which can only be caused by an excess of fluoride).
Do the benefits out weight the risks in the case of fluoride in the drinking water?
Absolutely not. With it, fluoride brings a whole host of problems. Plant and animal life cannot survive in water contaminated with fluoride. The air we breathe contains some fluoride from smokestack scrubbers (phosphate fertilizer industry), which in turn, poisons the air we breathe.
Where do you find fluoride?
The largest amount of fluoride is put into our drinking water supply. Check with your city to see if they use it or not. Also, buy a good water purifier as bottled water can also contain fluoride (without listing it on the label). Reverse osmosis systems are said to be very good at removing fluoride as well as other harmful toxins. Other sources of fluoride include: toothpastes, pharmaceutical drugs, processed foods and juices, fluoride drops, pesticides, and industrial discharges.
On a final note…
Fluoride is not being added to water to save lives, but instead to prevent tooth decay. Upon analysis of many scientific articles, it is no longer justified to intentionally fluoridate community drinking water. People should not be forced to drink water that has many adverse health effects, when dental benefits can be obtained through other means.
Stand up and let your voice be heard on this issue. Immediately discontinue use of fluoridated drinking water (check to see if your city uses fluoride). Educate others about the effects of this harmful substance. Contact your Natural Health Practitioner if you feel like you are suffering from the effects of fluoride, there are many natural therapies to reverse this damage!
Why does toothpaste carry a warning but fluoridated water does not?
In a pea size amount of toothpaste there is a quarter milligram of fluoride (which is what causes this “do not swallow” warning). Interestingly, an 8 ounce glass of water contains the same amount of fluoride. We are told to drink eight of these glasses of water per day, yet without any concern of the amount of fluoride that we are ingesting. In addition to that, the American Dental Association (ADA) as well as the Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommend that infants NOT receive fluoridated water for drinking, nor for making their formula, as fluoridated water contains 250 times more fluoride than in mother’s milk. These warnings should raise red flags for the rest of us.
Where does fluoride come from?
The sad truth is that the source of fluoride used in the water supply comes from the super-phosphate fertilizer industry. What used to be a very harmful and toxic substance, that could NOT be disposed of in lakes or rivers, is now diluted and place into the water that we drink. In addition, what used to cost $400 million to dispose of, has now turned into a $180 million profit, being sold to public water works in 2/3 of the U.S. Are they making a profit at the expense of our health?
The answer is yes.
What does this harmful toxin do?
It has been reported that fluoride causes hyperactivity, brain damage, dementia, impaired neurodevelopment in children, hypothyroidism, bone fractures, lowered IQ, bone cancer, calcification of the pineal gland, and dental fluorosis. Dental fluorosis shows as abnormal white and brown spots on the teeth.
 |
| Dental Fluorosis |
When this occurs, it can be indicative of the fact that the rest of the body has received too much fluoride as well, including the brain. All of these adverse health effects have been found over time in different scientific research articles.
But if this is such a harmful toxin, why do they continue to put it into the water?
Many U.S. cities add fluoride to their drinking water seeking to prevent tooth decay. However, in many different research articles, the countries that do not fluoridate their water have no more cavities than the ones that do. In fact, tooth decay has markedly declined in countries and communities that do not fluoridate drinking water as well as in those that do. Furthermore, in the places that do use fluoride, they report a much higher rate of dental fluorosis (which can only be caused by an excess of fluoride).
Do the benefits out weight the risks in the case of fluoride in the drinking water?
Absolutely not. With it, fluoride brings a whole host of problems. Plant and animal life cannot survive in water contaminated with fluoride. The air we breathe contains some fluoride from smokestack scrubbers (phosphate fertilizer industry), which in turn, poisons the air we breathe.
Where do you find fluoride?
The largest amount of fluoride is put into our drinking water supply. Check with your city to see if they use it or not. Also, buy a good water purifier as bottled water can also contain fluoride (without listing it on the label). Reverse osmosis systems are said to be very good at removing fluoride as well as other harmful toxins. Other sources of fluoride include: toothpastes, pharmaceutical drugs, processed foods and juices, fluoride drops, pesticides, and industrial discharges.
On a final note…
Fluoride is not being added to water to save lives, but instead to prevent tooth decay. Upon analysis of many scientific articles, it is no longer justified to intentionally fluoridate community drinking water. People should not be forced to drink water that has many adverse health effects, when dental benefits can be obtained through other means.
Stand up and let your voice be heard on this issue. Immediately discontinue use of fluoridated drinking water (check to see if your city uses fluoride). Educate others about the effects of this harmful substance. Contact your Natural Health Practitioner if you feel like you are suffering from the effects of fluoride, there are many natural therapies to reverse this damage!
Is It a Luxury or a Toxin?
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and its close relative Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) are very popular ingredients in many household products today. This is the inexpensive foaming agent in dish soaps, hand and body washes, cleaning products, and even toothpaste. We might see this as a luxury; it is what allows us to have very calming bubble baths or really foamy shaving creams. However, studies have shown that this may not be such an innocent luxury. The power of this substance is strong enough to scrub garage floors or to degrease an engine, and is considered to be carcinogenic over time.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate contains the known carcinogen 1,4-Dioxane, which is also known as ether. This compound is irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract. It is suspected of causing damage to the central nervous system, liver and kidneys. Several deaths have resulted from accidental exposure to this toxic substance.
When applied to the skin, SLS stays in the body for as long as five days and can be found in other tissues such as the liver, heart, lungs and brain. A report published in the Journal of the American College of Toxicology in 1983 showed that concentrations as low as 0.5% could cause irritation, and concentrations of 10-30% caused severe irritation and skin corrosion. Some products have up to 30% of SLS and have been listed as being a harmful substance. SLS can also combine with other ingredients in the container and create nitrosamines, which cause further skin damage and irritation.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate shows itself in many common products today and the average consumer doesn’t even know what it is or the implications that it brings. Soaps, shampoos, bubble-baths, toothpastes, dish soap, children’s soap, mascara, mouthwash, skin moisturizer and sunscreen: these are just a few of the products that contain Sodium Lauryl Sulfate.
Why do they use this product if it is so harmful?
The answer: because it is cheap. The SLS that you find in your beauty products is the same exact ingredient that they use in the garage soaps or engine degreasers. You can also bet that since this powerful degreaser can remove oil from an engine, that it removes the very essential oils on your skin as well. It has also been said that once in the body, SLS mimics the hormone estrogen, which can bring on health problems like PMS, menopausal symptoms, decreased male fertility, and increased female cancers (just to name a few). SLS also works to denature proteins, and, as you are aware, our bodies are made up of proteins. Even further, a dental association in Japan tested SLS on bacteria culture and found that it is mutagenic, which means that it has the ability to change the genetics of the cell. Another study found that in children under six, the absorption of this ingredient through the scalp everyday prevented the proteins in their eyes from properly developing. Furthermore, it is said that the SLS in toothpaste contributes to prolonged and more frequent canker sores in the mouth, and the SLS in shampoo causes hair to become more brittle and break easier. So, SLS is not only a harmful additive, but it is a beauty product ingredient that is creating a not-so-beautiful situation.
What can you do to avoid this toxin?
Read the labels on all of your products, especially ones that foam. Realize that Sodium Lauryl Sulfate has many names, including: Sodium Laurilsulfate, Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate, Sodium Diethylene Glycol Lauryl Ether Sulfate, Alkyl Ether Sulfate, Sodium Dodecyl Polyoxyethylene Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Ethoxysulfate and Sodium Polyoxyethylene Lauryl Sulfate. Ammonium Laureth Sulfate is an almost indistinguishable molecule, having only slightly different properties.
My motto: if you can’t pronounce the name and you don’t know what it is… don’t use it. Also remember that you shouldn’t put anything on your skin that you wouldn’t eat as everything is absorbed and carried throughout your body. Choose natural alternatives for skin care and beauty products. Cold-pressed coconut oil is a natural moisturizer and brings balance back to the essential oils of the skin. Find toothpastes that are SLS free and contain no fluoride (another article for another time). Also be aware of the products that list themselves as “organic” or “all-natural”, these products can still contain these harmful ingredients at times. Finally, find products that have minimal ingredients, ones that you know and trust.
When applied to the skin, SLS stays in the body for as long as five days and can be found in other tissues such as the liver, heart, lungs and brain. A report published in the Journal of the American College of Toxicology in 1983 showed that concentrations as low as 0.5% could cause irritation, and concentrations of 10-30% caused severe irritation and skin corrosion. Some products have up to 30% of SLS and have been listed as being a harmful substance. SLS can also combine with other ingredients in the container and create nitrosamines, which cause further skin damage and irritation.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate shows itself in many common products today and the average consumer doesn’t even know what it is or the implications that it brings. Soaps, shampoos, bubble-baths, toothpastes, dish soap, children’s soap, mascara, mouthwash, skin moisturizer and sunscreen: these are just a few of the products that contain Sodium Lauryl Sulfate.
Why do they use this product if it is so harmful?
The answer: because it is cheap. The SLS that you find in your beauty products is the same exact ingredient that they use in the garage soaps or engine degreasers. You can also bet that since this powerful degreaser can remove oil from an engine, that it removes the very essential oils on your skin as well. It has also been said that once in the body, SLS mimics the hormone estrogen, which can bring on health problems like PMS, menopausal symptoms, decreased male fertility, and increased female cancers (just to name a few). SLS also works to denature proteins, and, as you are aware, our bodies are made up of proteins. Even further, a dental association in Japan tested SLS on bacteria culture and found that it is mutagenic, which means that it has the ability to change the genetics of the cell. Another study found that in children under six, the absorption of this ingredient through the scalp everyday prevented the proteins in their eyes from properly developing. Furthermore, it is said that the SLS in toothpaste contributes to prolonged and more frequent canker sores in the mouth, and the SLS in shampoo causes hair to become more brittle and break easier. So, SLS is not only a harmful additive, but it is a beauty product ingredient that is creating a not-so-beautiful situation.
What can you do to avoid this toxin?
Read the labels on all of your products, especially ones that foam. Realize that Sodium Lauryl Sulfate has many names, including: Sodium Laurilsulfate, Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate, Sodium Diethylene Glycol Lauryl Ether Sulfate, Alkyl Ether Sulfate, Sodium Dodecyl Polyoxyethylene Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Ethoxysulfate and Sodium Polyoxyethylene Lauryl Sulfate. Ammonium Laureth Sulfate is an almost indistinguishable molecule, having only slightly different properties.
My motto: if you can’t pronounce the name and you don’t know what it is… don’t use it. Also remember that you shouldn’t put anything on your skin that you wouldn’t eat as everything is absorbed and carried throughout your body. Choose natural alternatives for skin care and beauty products. Cold-pressed coconut oil is a natural moisturizer and brings balance back to the essential oils of the skin. Find toothpastes that are SLS free and contain no fluoride (another article for another time). Also be aware of the products that list themselves as “organic” or “all-natural”, these products can still contain these harmful ingredients at times. Finally, find products that have minimal ingredients, ones that you know and trust.
Too Sweet To Be True?
“SPLENDA® No Calorie Sweetener is made from sugar, tastes like sugar but it’s not sugar. SPLENDA® is made with sucralose, so it does not contain aspartame. It has an outstanding safety profile and is an ideal sugar alternative for the whole family.” At least this is the claim made by the official Splenda website.
Upon further investigation, the Splenda website states that there are over 100 safety studies out there on their product, although they only have three of these 100 on their website. Not one of these three studies are actually “safety studies”, but instead measure the glycemic index and the relation Splenda has to tooth decay. As of 2006, only six human studies have ever been published on Splenda. Of those six studies, only two had been reviewed by the FDA before they gave the “ok” to put this product on the market. Furthermore, of those two studies, there was a mere 36 people included and only 23 of those people were actually given Splenda for research. Twenty three people might seem like an adequate number for some people, although you must consider that billions of people are consuming this toxic substance…is 23 people enough now?! Now, if those facts don’t alarm you, I will add one further detail. Of these studies conducted, the longest trial was four days, and measured how Splenda relates to tooth decay.
Wait, what?!
I have never heard of anyone developing tooth decay in four days. One thing that is clear now is that Splenda doesn’t actually “prove” anywhere that their product is safe.
Dr. Joseph Mercola, an osteopathic physician, reveals shocking evidence on the harmful effects of this very popular artificial sweetener. On his very informative website, Dr. Mercola states that there is overwhelming evidence that artificial sweeteners “wreck havoc” on your body- impairing appetite regulation, and leading to weight gain. It is also now proven that diet soda (which contains these very popular artificial sweeteners) increases your risk of metabolic syndrome, and ultimately, heart disease.
WOW!
Look at our country, we are a diet Coke and diet Pepsi culture. And, we are also a culture that has skyrocketing levels of metabolic syndrome (which is a conglomeration of low HDL or good cholesterol, high fasting blood sugar, large waistline, and high triglycerides) and heart disease.
Ok, fine. So now we see that there is a link between artificial sweeteners and heart disease/metabolic syndrome. But, what other harmful effects are we seeing from these deceptive fake sugars? A study that was published in the Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health found even more disturbing evidence.
They found that Splenda:
-reduces the amount of good bacteria in your gut by 50%
-increases the pH levels of your intestines (which isn’t a good thing)
-and effects a certain glycoprotein in your body that can lead to other serious complications
Contrary to popular belief, by consuming low-calorie or no-calorie foods, you are virtually doubling your risk for obesity. The effects listed above aren’t even the tip of the iceberg when it comes to side-effects that people have reported from Splenda. Some of these include: migraine headaches, seizures, dizziness, blurred vision, allergic reactions, blood sugar increases, pain, nausea, gas…and the list goes on and on.
What can you do to avoid this toxin?
Learn how to read labels to determine if the product contains artificial sweeteners, but beware, sucralose is in many more products than you think. Ten percent of sucralose is sold to drug companies, and many of those drug companies do not list it as an ingredient in their products. You can also be sure that most products listed as low-calorie or no-calorie contains some sort of artificial sweetener. Also, be familiar with the different names that these products go as: as an example, Splenda is also called sucralose; Aspartame is also called Equal, NutraSweet, and Canderel. Be mindful. Use more natural sweeteners like honey, pure maple syrup, and stevia. Finally, remember that you will not lose weight by eating products with artificial sweeteners… but instead you will double your risk of obesity.
Contact your Natural Health Practitioner to speak about alternatives and for further information! Also learn in a later blog about the health benefits of pure, raw honey!
Upon further investigation, the Splenda website states that there are over 100 safety studies out there on their product, although they only have three of these 100 on their website. Not one of these three studies are actually “safety studies”, but instead measure the glycemic index and the relation Splenda has to tooth decay. As of 2006, only six human studies have ever been published on Splenda. Of those six studies, only two had been reviewed by the FDA before they gave the “ok” to put this product on the market. Furthermore, of those two studies, there was a mere 36 people included and only 23 of those people were actually given Splenda for research. Twenty three people might seem like an adequate number for some people, although you must consider that billions of people are consuming this toxic substance…is 23 people enough now?! Now, if those facts don’t alarm you, I will add one further detail. Of these studies conducted, the longest trial was four days, and measured how Splenda relates to tooth decay.
Wait, what?!
I have never heard of anyone developing tooth decay in four days. One thing that is clear now is that Splenda doesn’t actually “prove” anywhere that their product is safe.
Dr. Joseph Mercola, an osteopathic physician, reveals shocking evidence on the harmful effects of this very popular artificial sweetener. On his very informative website, Dr. Mercola states that there is overwhelming evidence that artificial sweeteners “wreck havoc” on your body- impairing appetite regulation, and leading to weight gain. It is also now proven that diet soda (which contains these very popular artificial sweeteners) increases your risk of metabolic syndrome, and ultimately, heart disease.
WOW!
Look at our country, we are a diet Coke and diet Pepsi culture. And, we are also a culture that has skyrocketing levels of metabolic syndrome (which is a conglomeration of low HDL or good cholesterol, high fasting blood sugar, large waistline, and high triglycerides) and heart disease.
Ok, fine. So now we see that there is a link between artificial sweeteners and heart disease/metabolic syndrome. But, what other harmful effects are we seeing from these deceptive fake sugars? A study that was published in the Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health found even more disturbing evidence.
They found that Splenda:
-reduces the amount of good bacteria in your gut by 50%
-increases the pH levels of your intestines (which isn’t a good thing)
-and effects a certain glycoprotein in your body that can lead to other serious complications
Contrary to popular belief, by consuming low-calorie or no-calorie foods, you are virtually doubling your risk for obesity. The effects listed above aren’t even the tip of the iceberg when it comes to side-effects that people have reported from Splenda. Some of these include: migraine headaches, seizures, dizziness, blurred vision, allergic reactions, blood sugar increases, pain, nausea, gas…and the list goes on and on.
What can you do to avoid this toxin?
Learn how to read labels to determine if the product contains artificial sweeteners, but beware, sucralose is in many more products than you think. Ten percent of sucralose is sold to drug companies, and many of those drug companies do not list it as an ingredient in their products. You can also be sure that most products listed as low-calorie or no-calorie contains some sort of artificial sweetener. Also, be familiar with the different names that these products go as: as an example, Splenda is also called sucralose; Aspartame is also called Equal, NutraSweet, and Canderel. Be mindful. Use more natural sweeteners like honey, pure maple syrup, and stevia. Finally, remember that you will not lose weight by eating products with artificial sweeteners… but instead you will double your risk of obesity.
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