Cold and Flu Season Advice

Powerful Immune support against the cold and flu 

With our first taste of Fall like weather (a welcome relief for most of us) now is a great time to prepare for the “cold and flu” season. Here are a few ideas for you and your loved ones.

What to Eat

Eating well and proper supplementation is key in helping your body fight the good fight. Unfortunately, we tend to rely or otherwise come into contact with an increased amount of comfort foods during this time of year because of the holidays (and perhaps increased alcohol use, as well, for many different reasons). Nourishing the body now with great all-natural nutritionals that contain vitamins and minerals will help either stave off a cold or assist in recovering from one more quickly. Proper vitamin and mineral levels at the start will assist for a faster finish. The old stand-by vegetables to stick close to would be the green leafy variety (spinach, cabbage, etc.) for their calcium and magnesium. Broccoli and tomatoes are excellent for their antioxidant powers. Carrots help increase the flow of blood and also deliver powerful antioxidants ensuring your entire system gets nourished. Incorporate onions and garlic into your eating plan as often as possible. Bacteria and other pathogens have a tough time against this dynamic duo. If you are interested in powerful liquid nutritionals perhaps you should try a fucoidan based beverage. It nourishes the immune system and could prove very effective in your fight against the ill effects of the flu. Read more about it at https://thoughtfulhealth.mysisel.com/en/US/productdetail.htm?id=26.

Exercise

Exercise is an often over looked aspect of cold prevention. Exercise in and of itself is a great detoxifier. Nitric oxide is produced during moderate to strenuous physical activity. This helps to not only keep arteries clear but also helps to remove impurities from the body allowing the immune system to rest and get ready for other potential threats. Getting your heart rate up and maintaining that higher rate for at least twenty minutes could save you days of misery.

Home Remedy

What should you do when you begin to feel the first tell-tale signs of cold or flu like symptoms? Make your own therapeutic syrup! It has been well established that cough syrups, especially for kids, do not work (http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,181128,00.html). Follow this simple recipe to make a tonic that could stop or shorten your cold or flu symptoms:

•Honey (Unpasteurized to prevent enzyme destruction; usually a locally produced honey will not be pasteurized)

•Fresh garlic juice

•Organic or Natural Black Seed Oil (cold pressed only)

Mix equal parts black seed oil and garlic juice. Add honey to the mix to a consistency you prefer. It is best to mix and consume at the very first hint of trouble to prevent the onset of all the symptoms. It is also a great preventative so if you are prone to colds and flu take a tablespoon or more of this per week to build your immunity. This particular tonic has been used in our household for over a year and has proved to be very effective.

Following these tips could save you from the expense and misery caused by being sick any longer than you have to be, if at all. If you would like more tips or have a more specific concern contact me at thoughtfulhealth@gmail.com. Happy cooler temperatures to all!

A word of caution…When reading the article referenced for this report please know that I do not endorse the “alternative” to cough syrup sited in the article. The underlying cause should be addressed and the remedy listed above is one of many great alternatives.

Also, it is typically advisable to not give children under the age of two honey because of a potential allergic reaction to some enzymes found in honey. Consult you Healthcare Practioner before doing so.

Powerful Immune support against the cold and flu

Estrogen Dominance in Men and Women Part III

Restore healthy by nourishing beneficial cell growth and regeneration

In this article are some keys to avoiding estrogen dominance and other hormone imbalances caused by environmental factors. These keys include what foods to consume and avoid. Also we need to know where to purchase trusted health and personal care products that will not contribute to hormone imbalances.

Organic and Natural Meat

When it comes to what we put in our bodies there is no better place to start than with the meat we consume. One should make an earnest effort to consume meat that is certified organic or meat that is labeled “all natural“ when the source can be verified. Why? The producers of organic and all natural meat would not use rBGH or any other type of growth hormone which could pollute and harm the body. In addition, these meats tend to be less fatty and absent of excess inflammatory material produced in the body of the animal. Less fat and inflammation in the animal leads to less fat and inflammation in ‘we the people’ but I digress. There is no mistaking that residual hormones do find their way into our bodies and affects our lives.

Where to Purchase Products That Do Not Contribute to Hormone Imbalances

It is a rare thing, indeed, to find responsible stewards that care about our health while maintaining corporate profits. In fact, profits are the very reason why we continue to be poisoned without conviction by many major manufacturers. Some of the largest and most well respected manufacturers of personal care products and cosmetics continue to push their merchandise on the market that contain Parabens, TEA, Phthalates, and DEA to name a few despite the health risk. One company in particular has come along, however, to stop the dizzying madness that has gripped the common consumer. Sisel International has stepped in and made their position plain to consumers and industry alike: Poisonous chemicals (including hormone mimickers) in consumer products are not necessary, are irresponsible and will not appear in our products. Sisel International makes over 120 products at its own manufacturing facility where the products assembled are guaranteed to be free of any known adverse chemical and all nutritional supplements are synthetic free all while being affordable to the masses. For too long these types of products have been out of reach of the common man and set aside exclusively for the monied elite. Well no longer. We must take back our health. Whether it is cosmetics, shampoo, lotion, a liquid nutritional or any of the other numerous products expect quality, affordability and above all else expect to not be poisoned! I am proud to have affiliated myself with this wonderful company and look forward to seeing what other products they can formulate that I would confidently support. For more information on Sisel International and our products please visit: mysisel.com/thoughtfulhealth.

A Word about Soy

Soy gained substantial prominence during the 1970’s and 80’s as vegetarianism really began to take off. Soy was seen as a great meat substitute because of its high protein nutrient value and heartiness which helped with satiety. Besides, soy has been consumed by millions of people for thousands of years. There are some things to consider when consuming soy, however. Soy is well known for its strong estrogenic effects. Many cultures, especially those in Asia, often ferment their soy to combat this. Once again we do not want excess estrogen to gain dominance in our bodies even through our food. Another matter to consider is how often and heavily soy crops tend to be sprayed with harmful chemicals that can also serve to mimic hormones and retard our endocrine systems. Many pesticides work directly on slowing the metabolic rates of pest to the point of death and this is what we consume! Who wants to slow down their metabolism anyway? I’m sure you wash all your veggies thoroughly, though. Even still there is another way to get you. Almost all of the soy crops in the U.S. are now genetically modified and are “Round Up” ready which means the pesticides are built in. You couldn’t wash that out if you tried. It all adds up to this: If you are going to consume soy do so in moderation and insure it is organic and not genetically modified in any way.

It is time for us to be mindful of what we put in and on our bodies. It is time for us to wake up from the slickly advertised corporate nightmare that would have us poison ourselves with great loyalty to the poisoners. It is time for us to take back our lives!

Restore healthy by nourishing beneficial cell growth and regeneration

Estrogen Dominance in Men and Women Part II

Reverse aging and rejuvenate the body

Estrogen dominance and hormone imbalances in general, have become an increasing chronic health issue. It is leading to increases in obesity and cancer rates. In order to reverse this trend we must learn how to decrease our exposure to xenoestrogens and xenohormones. Limiting exposure to food sources and personal care products that contain these chemical hormone mimickers is key.

Food Sources

The use of excess hormones in Livestock has proliferated over the past 50 years. Used to increase the size of cattle for their flesh and milk production, hormone use has led to big business. However, this increased business (and by business I mean profits) has been at our own demise. Contrary to industry assertions residual hormones find their way into the flesh and milk of the animals we consume. rBGH (recombinant bovine growth hormone) is a known hormone mimicker that not only causes bovines to grow but also causes humans to grow as well. rBGH interferes with the endocrine system and fools the body into thinking there is natural human estrogen in the body. Growth in girls is accelerated and the development of the sex organs in boys is stunted or otherwise compromised. Some European nations have an outright ban on the use of rBGH or any other hormone or growth accelerant. People from around the world are choosing more often to consume meat and dairy products that are either organic are all natural to avoid excess hormones. If consuming products that are labeled “all natural” please ensure no hormones are used or added since there is no legal definition to govern these products.

Personal Care Products

One aspect of estrogen consumption is not well known which could lead to devastating effects. Our personal care products is helping to fuel increases in worldwide obesity and cancer rates in addition to other negative health issues. Xenoestrogens or chemicals that look like estrogen to the body are plentiful and prolific in the products we use most often. What products, exactly? The soaps, lotion, shampoo and cosmetics (lipstick, blush, eye shadow, etc.) that line our cabinets. Chemicals like parabens and phthalates are used often and heavily in addition to many other chemicals like TEA, DEA, and PEG to name a few. These chemicals enter the bloodstream and are confused with natural hormones or otherwise cause our endocrine system to behave improperly or poorly. Almost all of the most popular brands use these endocrine damaging chemicals with no distinction between brands or price of the products. Some of the most expensive brands contain as much as or more endocrine system disrupting chemicals as the less expensive brands.

The next article posted will discuss in more detail how to avoid xenoestrogens and give practical advice on personal care products that do not contain them. If you cannot wait until then copy and paste the following link to have a look at non-toxic, non-xenoestrogen containing products: mysisel.com/thoughtfulhealth.

Reverse aging and rejuvenate the body

Estrogen Dominance in Women and Men Part 1

Super immune system and anti-radiation support

A quiet phenomenon has silently gripped the health of our nation specifically and the world generally. We have been enduring soaring obesity rates, epidemic breast and prostate cancer rates and the increased feminization of men. While no single source for these increases exist several suspects can be easily fingered. Decreased nutrient values of our food, environmental toxins, and seemingly unending stress are all culprits but one cause, in particular, has been a silent plague: estrogen dominance. Seldom mentioned, estrogen dominance has flown under the mainstream radar has a health problem for too long.

What is Estrogen Dominance?

Simply put estrogen dominance is either too much estrogen in the body or the ratio of estrogen to other hormones is out of balance in favor of estrogen. Once this happens all sorts of problems can occur. Excess estrogen (and its mimickers) combines with insulin which can lead to hypoglycemia and increased fat production. In addition to increasing fat production estrogen dominance also negatively impacts thyroid function preventing or decreasing the production of thyroxin and decreases the metabolic rate. It also increases the occurrence of blood clotting, histamine release, aging collagen (makes you look older), development of fibroids, tumors and endometriosis.

How Estrogen Dominance Affects the Body of Girls and Women

It is no longer uncommon for young girls between the ages of 7 and 9 to begin their menstrual cycles. It is no longer uncommon to see young ladies around 14 or 15 years old to have a “developed” look as if they were in their twenties. Women today are suffering from estrogen based breast cancers at younger and younger ages. As if all of this is not enough women tend to retain excess fat and have a more difficult time ridding themselves of it due to the estrogenic interaction with insulin and its impairment of the thyroid gland.

How Estrogen Dominance Affects the Body of Boys and Men

Excess estrogen in boys and men can be equally devastating with long term effects. In boys, the growth, development and function of the testes are stunted (need I say more?). This lowers testosterone production and leads to other chronic conditions later in life. Excess estrogen in men interferes with the production of testosterone and sexual dysfunction rises dramatically. Bone density decreases leading to osteoporosis. Mood among men worsens as testosterone falls and estrogen rises.

Please understand that estrogen is a very important hormone for both men and women. Without it or too little of it can also lead to chronic medical issues but in our current xenoestrogenic environment estrogen dominance is far more likely and must be dealt with.

Part II of this article will address the sources of excess estrogen and some of them may surprise you.

Super immune system and anti-radiation support

Sources:

http://articles.nydailynews.com/2011-04-12/entertainment/29426555_1_early-puberty-monthly-hormone-shots-laila

Alternative Medicine: The Definitive Guide. Deepak Chopra, M.D.

Gout: A Painless Solution to a Painful Condition

Powerful anti-inflammatory support for your body

Below is a reprint of an article I wrote several months. Review this article with open eyes and an open mind. Below you will find some of the things we desperately need to be aware of. I will continue to bring new, reviews and suggestions that not only challenges the status quo but will hopefully bring fresh, meaningful insights in this sound bite world...

If you have watched any television of late you probably saw a commercial for Uloric. Uloric is a new drug designed to relieve gout sufferers of their symptoms. With gout's new found prevalence Uloric is right on time to rake in profits for Big Pharma. Perhaps now is a great time to take a fresh look at gout for what it is and how to eliminate the condition as opposed to masking the symptoms.

Gouts Place in History

Gout is a condition that leads to acute inflammatory arthritis. It is often painful resulting in tender swollen joints that are red and hot. Long regarded as "the disease of kings" gout has a lengthy history dating back to ancient Egypt. Imhotep, a noted Egyptian physician, was treating gout 4600 years ago. The 6th century physician Alexander Tralles used Autumn Crocus (Colchium Autumnal) specifically for gout which was a first at the time. Fast forward to medieval times and one would find that bloodletting was the norm. Gout's position in history was usually reserved for the elite of society. During those times only the affluent could afford rich foods and sedentary lifestyles. Contemporary food production has brought us more meat consumption and processed foods that we tend to overindulge in. Add nutritionally unbalanced diets to the equation and one can understand gout's steady increase in society over time.

Relief

Gout is thought to have multiple origins but a general consensus has formed around increased plasma (blood) acidity mainly due to uric acid. The issue of acidosis is more prevalent in our society so a good start would be to address this issue. The average diet today has 30% of our calories coming from protein. Combined with a diet lacking essential nutrients because of consumption of over-processed foods, the chance of developing gout greatly increases. Here are a few tips to reflect upon:

1. Combat gout by insuring protein consumption does not exceed 10 -15% of calories consumed per day. The proteins should be of high quality derived primarily from vegetables, beans, nuts, and legumes. Proteins from these sources are more readily absorbed.

2. In addition to quality proteins the body needs adequate nutrients, primarily Vitamins B3 and B6 along with Zinc, to properly breakdown and utilize the protein that has been ingested.

3. Decrease or eliminate consumption of acid forming foods, some of which are coffee, sugar, alcohol, vinegar, meat and dairy products. Alcohol is known not only to increase uric acid production, but also to decrease the body's ability to excrete uric acid through the kidneys. Some may find that the elimination of alcohol is all they needed to do to rid themselves of gout.

4. Micheal Murray, N.D. recommends gout sufferers consume 1/2 pound of cherries for relief. Dark red and blue berries are excellent sources of phytonutrients that reduce joint inflammation.

5. If a person with gout is obese emphasis on proper weight reduction is advisable. Weight reduction should be accomplished through a low fat, high fiber diet with an eye towards alkaline forming foods, some of which are aloe vera, wheat grass, alfalfa, parsley, dates, string beans, raisins, prunes, and banana.

6. Avoid refined carbohydrates and saturated fats. These increase blood acidity.

There is no cookie cutter approach to treating the condition of gout but some of the common measures mentioned above are a great place to start. Seek balance and prudence in your diet. Be diligent and discover for yourself or with the help of practitioners how to give gout the boot.

Sources

Alternative Medicine: A Definitive Guide, Deepak Chopra, M.D.

http://sharonporter.hubpages.com/hub/History-of-Gout-Remedies

http://www.fertilefoods.com/healthy-pregnancy/fertility/alkaline-foods-for-conception/

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16820040


Post Script:

In the coming weeks ahead I will be preparing a series of presentations on weight gain, weight loss and weight maintenance. The information provided will not be your "run of the mill" infomercial styled misguidance but actual information that could change your life, your mind and your body. I will post snippets of these presentations on the blog for your perusal. I will also look into conducting webinars to present this information to a wider audience. Stay tuned!

Powerful anti-inflammatory support for your body

Two Weeks Down, One to Go!

Two weeks into this 21 day "empty calorie" fast and I am amazed at what has taken place. The power of empty calories over our lives is even more evident now that I have (along with a few super troopers) undergone this unique challenge. It is extraordinary the grip that foods devoid of nutrients and filled with simple carbohydrates has on our lives. So much so that some people wouldn't even consider taking the challenge because they feel as if they cannot do without their sugary coffee, morning danish or nightly Oreo run. Now that we are down to one week left on this very important fast I have to ask at what cost do we do these things to ourselves? Do you enjoy sinus issues? Is the extra inch around your waistline worth it? Does high blood pressure and diabetes sound delicious? I don't want to preach but I see so much hurt and pain around from chronic illness and it makes me sad and sometimes angry. We must do better.

Personally my sweet tooth has to be tamed. And like many others I allow it to run free from time to time. However, for the past two weeks it has been in check and I can tell you how good it feels to wake up in the morning without sniffing and snorting because my nose and throat itches or the post nasal mucous is trying to gag me. Also, I have to take my belt in another notch to compensate for the extra room I now have because of a receding waistline. My goal for this fast was not to lose weight or clear up sinus issues (but I'll take it). The goal was simply to give my body a chance to do what it does best and it is the same chance I want you to give your bodies.

When we lay down at night it is usually because we are sleepy. That sleepiness is the body asking us for a chance. A chance to rejuvenate and repair itself. A chance to desperately restore balance. Chronic inflammation from our food and environment does nothing in helping our bodies repair themselves. The absence of great nutrition combined with empty calories only expands our waistlines and lead to chronic illness.

Take a moment and inventory your ills. If they have anything to do with pain and/or inflammation I would suggest a great place to start in turning it around would be the empty calories that has invaded your life and taken your health. It may not be the only thing you need to do but it would be a great place to start!

The 21 Day "Empty Calorie" Fast

Superb nutritional support with powerful all natural anti-oxidants
http://thoughtfulhealth.mysiselpro.com/v1/Products/nutritionals/spectramaxx.aspx

If you follow me on Facebook or Twitter (@thoughthealth) you are likely aware of the 21 day "empty calorie" fast challenge. For those of you who are not aware here is my Facebook note that gives a brief overview:

"For 21 days we will abstain from consuming any and all empty calories. Sweetened beverages (i.e. soda, sweet tea, lemonade, etc.) and desserts (potato chips, cakes, cookies, ice cream, etc.). Also included would be anything artificially sweetened. Give your body a break from inflammation and rejuvenate your immune system. If you must have something sweet fresh fruit is acceptable." A few advantages of participating may be:

- allergy abatement
- inflammation relief
- deactivate continuous immune system response
- insulin burden relief
- support weight loss or maintenance through calorie reduction
- relieve mineral loss

This 21 day fast is not a gimmick. The purpose of the fast is many fold as suggested by the Facebook note. In addition to the reasons given in the noted highlights I would like to demonstrate through this fast how easy it is to consume foods and other things on the daily basis that only contribute to acidosis and weight gain without providing any nourishment to the body.

In the midst of this fast some people will figure out quickly how out of control we are as it relates to food. This brings me to why the fast is 21 days for there are several reasons. First, psychologically it is said it takes 21 days to break a habit. It is not the intention of the fast to keep you completely away from empty calories forever. Indeed, I only wish to bring into your awareness more often what it is you are consuming. Second, 21 days is enough time to show either weight loss or inches lost as the body basks in the glow of a break from the metabolic nightmare that is our current diet. Third, the liver gets a chance to take a breather which increases metabolism and the ability to cleanse the blood of toxins leading to better health.

In regard to artificial sweeteners it is a goal of this fast to give the liver a break. Artificial sweeteners taxes the liver giving no rest to the weary (liver). There are other issues to contend with to numerous to cover in this post but please refer to my artificial sweetener blog posts. They will tell you how artificial sweeteners actually lead to weight gain.

Naturally I cannot promise anyone that they will lose weight/inches or that your metabolism will increase. What I can tell you is that your weight and metabolism will not get better if you do not start somewhere. Underlying medical issues may prevent seeing physical benefits but internally things will either improve or stop declining. Ultimately the goal is to prove to yourself that you are in control of you and to stop the unnecessary downward health trend.

Contact me at Thoughtfulhealth@gmail.com, on twitter @thoughthealth, on Facebook (search my name Derrell Jones) or Skype derrelljones1

Much Love to everyone and let’s Take Back Our Life!!!!

Superb nutritional support with powerful all natural anti-oxidants
http://thoughtfulhealth.mysiselpro.com/v1/Products/nutritionals/spectramaxx.aspx

Keratin Treatments May Blow Out More Than Your Hair

Damaged hair requires natural healing

Keratin hair treatments have been around for more than a few years now. Many people have raved over its miraculous ability to straighten all types of hair. Apparently kinky, damaged, colored or otherwise distressed hair is no match for the Keratin treatments. And since Keratin is a naturally occurring protein these treatments have been regarded on some occasions as being a natural product. Women from around the country and the world have lined up to get this “natural” straightening marvel as the answer to their "hair hell" prayers. This marvel, however, is often little more than a cleverly marketed deception.

The Brazilian Keratin Treatment, as it is formally known, will cost you anywhere between $150 to $800 USD in a salon and is reported to last approximately 3-4 months. The claim of the Keratin treatment system is that the Keratin protein is responsible for the straightening action but there is another ingredient of great concern at work. That ingredient is Formaldehyde. Recently the U.S. government added Formaldehyde to the list of substances known to cause cancer (refer to my posts from 6/12/11 and 6/16/11 for more regarding Formaldehyde). Many experts believe that it is the Formaldehyde doing most of the heavy lifting as it relates to straightening.

The use of Formaldehyde and its parent chemicals Aldehyde and Aldehyde Salts (more on these in a bit) pose immediate and long term risk to the client, beautician/stylist, and by-standing customers and visitors. When the Keratin treatment is applied it is heated vaporizing some of the formaldehyde allowing it to be taken directly into the lungs. The potential for respiratory distress from the vapors is increased with each inhalation and could be felt immediately or develop over time. In addition, the formaldehyde applied to hair that is not vaporized breaks down over time and can be absorbed through the scalp and skin . The Cosmetic Ingredient Expert review panel has set the “safe” limit (as safe as a poison can be) at .2%. Test were initiated by Allure Magazine on some Keratin treatment products and found 10 times the recommended “safe” amount of Formaldehyde in them. In 2010 the Oregon OSHA and Oregon Health and Sciences University found that one popular treatment called Brazilian Blowout Solution contained 8% Formaldehyde while the company’s website insisted their product was Formaldehyde free.

Splitting Hairs (pun intended)

Many Keratin treatment producers have caught on that their customers do not want Formaldehyde in the products they buy. These companies also know that their products will not work nearly as well without Formaldehyde. What is a company to do? Some have chosen deception for the sake of profit. The deception goes like this: Step 1 - Remove the Formaldehyde to make the product more desirable. Step 2 - Add an Aldehyde or Aldehyde salt to achieve straightening ability. Step 3 - Advertise to the public your product is Formaldehyde free...brilliant! Unfortunately the same potential adverse health effects exist. Aldehyde is the parent chemical of Formaldehyde and possesses the same inherent dangers. Dubious and devious, indeed.

Consumer beware. Straightening your hair should not be detrimental to your health. Seek trustworthy companies that make safe products or seek to go natural. Choose wisely and be sure to tip your stylist (by tip I mean share this post with them).

Damaged hair requires natural healing

Sources:

http://www.orosha.org/pdf/Final_Hair_Smoothing_Report.pdf

http://www.abcactionnews.com/dpp/news/region_tampa/brazilian-keratin-hair-treatment-product-linked-to-formaldehyde

http://www.naturallycurly.com/curlreading/retexturizing/post-keratin-treatment-methods

http://www.carolina.com/category/teacher%20resources/material%20data%20safety%20sheets%20(msds)/msds-%20a-c/acetic%20aldehyde.do

Styrofoam: Is it contaminating your food?

All natural antioxidant support for great health

There was a time not long ago when I thought nothing of heating or reheating my food on a Styrofoam plate in a microwave. Today I seldom microwave anything at all (the reason will be addressed in another post). Before curbing my microwave habit I stopped using Styrofoam plates in them. It seems I read something or other a few years ago about the ability of Styrofoam to leach chemicals onto the food. It turns out that heeding the advice and not using Styrofoam in the microwave was a pretty good idea. Just last month (June 2011) the US Department of Health and Human Services made a bold, yet necessary, decision to add the chemical styrene to the list of substances reasonably known to cause cancer in humans. It is has been known to cause cancer in animals for years.

Styrene is a chemical used in the production of Styrofoam, some rubber products and cigarettes. In fact the majority of exposure to styrene is thought to come from smoking or inhaling second hand smoke. Second to smoking would be the use of Styrofoam products for containing or holding foods and beverages as a chief mode of exposure. With either heat in general or the aggressive manipulation of molecules through microwaving comes the breaking down of Styrofoam allowing chemicals like styrene to attach itself to our foods.

It has been established that long term exposure to styrene through ingestion or inhalation can be very hazardous. The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for styrene explains these hazards clearly. The acute (immediate) concern for styrene exposure is that it can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system causing inflammation and pain. The chronic (long term) health concerns include nervous system toxicity, upper respiratory tract toxicity, targeted organ damage and cancer.

Using Styrofoam has become a way of life for most people. If used sporadically one lessens their risk from the long term damaging effects of styrene. Avoid using Styrofoam in microwave ovens or for serving hot foods and beverages. In fact, perhaps the best advice is to avoid any use associated with food all together.

Sources:

http://abcnews.go.com/US/styrofoam-chemical-styrene-added-possible-carcinogens-list/story?id=13815600

http://www.sciencelab.com/msds.php?msdsId=9925112

All natural antioxidant support for great health

Formaldehyde is not for the Living: Part 2

Flawless cosmetics without poisonous ingredients

Formaldehyde is an extremely nasty substance. At just 0.1 parts per million, which is not very much, it can cause eye irritation and significant breathing problems. If a person is asthmatic formaldehyde can be a nightmare triggering an asthma response without ever being fingered as the culprit. Continued exposure has caused cancer in animals and has long been regarded to cause cancer in humans. Studies of mortuary workers have revealed an increase in rare nasal cancers after being exposed to high levels of formaldehyde.
Does anyone remember the FEMA trailers used after Hurricane Katrina? After many complaints and hospitalizations of the occupants the trailers were all but abandoned with some choosing to live on the street instead of the trailers. Why? Formaldehyde was making the people sick causing a plethora of medical conditions. If the hurricane didn’t get them then the formaldehyde did.

The Chemical Industry
As you can imagine the chemical industry is incensed. There is nothing wrong with formaldehyde they say. This will cost American jobs they say. The science does not bear out the findings they say. Interestingly in 1999 the Canadian government, using science, labeled formaldehyde a toxic substance. And to this date many European nations have completely banned the use of formaldehyde based on scientific studies. It seems the only science the chemical industry likes is their own manipulated version (which is not science) with all other science being wrong. As far as jobs are concerned the job market in the European nations did not collapse do to the banning of this toxin.

Reducing exposure
There isn’t much a person can do about their work environment or the home that is already built. However, what follows are some things you can do now and in the future to avoid formaldehyde:
1. Avoid all personal care products that contain formaldehyde. Look at nail polish and any other nail care product. Also pay attention to all hair treatments and conditioners.
2. If you are having a new home built be sure the material used are labeled as U.L.E.F. (ultra-low-emitting formaldehyde), N.A.F. (no added formaldehyde) or C.A.R.B. (California Air Resources Board) Phase 1 or Phase 2 compliant.
3. Ventilate new cars as much as possible. This will assist in ridding the car of excessive formaldehyde accumulation do to off-gassing. New car smell is hazardous to one’s health.

We should be encouraged by our government finally stepping up on behalf of ‘we the people’. I would not be surprised one bit, though, if the government bends to the will of the chemical industry in the name of profit and recants its position. Regardless, we now know what most of the world as known for some time. Go in good health and prosperity.

Interested in a complete line of non-toxic personal care products and beauty aids including nail polish and make up? Visit mysisel.com/thoughtfulhealth.

Sources:
http://healthland.time.com/2011/06/11/why-the-federal-government-finally-acted-on-chemical-safety/

http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/go/roc12.

http://www.dailyfinance.com/2010/08/28/the-awful-odyssey-of-femas-hurricane-katrina-trailers/

Flawless cosmetics without poisonous ingredients

Formaldehyde is not for the Living: Part 1

Flawless cosmetics without poisonous ingredients
http://thoughtfulhealth.mysiselpro.com/v1/Products/beauty/mineral_pressed_foundation.aspx

Just recently the U.S. government finally issued a safety warning about formaldehyde and placed it on the list of known carcinogens. It would seem that the U.S. is catching up to the rest of the world even if it is years after the fact. But why is formaldehydes new designation important to us?
Formaldehyde is a widely used substance and can be found in the products we interact with the most. Chief among these products are our homes, automobiles and personal care items.
The plywood used in home building is usually treated with formaldehyde. Automobile upholstery and other components are also treated or manufactured with formaldehyde. So the next time you are enjoying that new home or new car smell please know that it is the carcinogen (cancer causing) formaldehyde off-gassing right into your lungs. One exposure will probably not do too much damage but how long have you been inhaling these noxious vapors…10, 20, 30 years?
If you have ever been in a nail salon (or anywhere else where nails are done) you probably noticed the nail technician using a mask to cover their mouth and nose. It is not because they are afraid of your germs. They cover themselves to avoid exposure to particulates containing formaldehyde (as well as other harmful chemicals to include parabens). You may have also noticed who doesn’t have their faces covered. That would be the customers and anyone else who is with them like husbands, friends and children.
Hair salons are not exempt either. In fact, the exposure can be even more hideous since a good bit of heat steams the formaldehyde through any potential filters (read nasal cilia aka nose hair). Even certain treatments regarded as safe can contain formaldehyde or its parent chemical aldehyde (more on this in an upcoming post).
Part 2 will be posted within the next few days with important information on the chemical industry and how to avoid or minimize exposure to formaldehyde.
Interested in a complete line of non-toxic personal care products and beauty aids including nail polish and make up? Visit mysisel.com/thoughtfulhealth.

Flawless cosmetics without poisonous ingredients
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Sources:
http://healthland.time.com/2011/06/11/why-the-federal-government-finally-acted-on-chemical-safety/
http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/go/roc12.
http://www.dailyfinance.com/2010/08/28/the-awful-odyssey-of-femas-hurricane-katrina-trailers/

If Swallowed Call Poison Control Immediately

When we think of ominous statements the title of this post ranks right up there at the top. It conveys a sense of urgency that should make one ready to spring into action to save life and limb in case disaster strikes. The disaster, as it were, in this case would be to do something as simple as swallowing toothpaste. All fluoride containing toothpastes carry this warning. Don’t believe me? Please go check. To be exact the warning goes like this: “Keep out of reach of children under 6 years of age. If you accidentally swallow more than needed for brushing seek professional help or call poison control immediately”. There are not many products on the market today that we are supposed to put in our mouths that carry a poison warning.

Commercially used fluoride is a by-product (read waste) of the organophosphate fertilizer industry. This is what manufacturers put into toothpaste. Fluoride has the ability to accumulate in our body’s overtime and is thought to lead to chronic illnesses and ironically brittle teeth through fluorosis. While fluoride in toothpaste work its long term damaging effects on adults our children can suffer immediately. All that is required to kill an average weight 2 year old is for them to ingest 60 mg of fluoride. The average tube of toothpaste contains twice that amount(it can average between 120 and 150 mg). Half a tube of fluoridated toothpaste can kill a 2 year old while an entire tube can kill a 9 year old. To be fair there aren’t many kids out there eating vast quantities of toothpaste but there are many consuming more than their fair share. When put into perspective the conclusion must be that there is no such thing as a safe amount of poison. Remember, fluoride has a cumulative effect. This toxin also has the ability to attract and then bind to heavy metals most notably aluminum. Once bound together the body has a notoriously difficult time ridding itself of either without specific detoxification protocols. Essentially, the poison that doesn’t kill you today will hang around and hover over your head like a toxic sword of Damocles. This is what we give our kids and continue to take ourselves on the daily basis.

At this point the collective groan of some reading this post can be heard saying: “We need fluoride for healthy teeth…or so we’ve been told”. As a matter of fact Western European nations have the same rate of tooth decay or lower when compared to America. The point is that most of the communities in these nations have long stopped fluoridating their water and use non-fluoridated or extremely low fluoridated toothpaste. Refusing to bath our teeth in sugar baths daily (sodas, chips and other highly processed sugary snacks) combined with proper nutrient intake and brushing with non-fluoridated, non-toxic toothpaste will lend us a better outcome.

The industrialized nations are beginning to wake up from its toxic slumber to reclaim health and vitality. Let us be more conscious of what we partake in and what we allow others to do to us against our own best interest. Our health is ours and it is up to us to reclaim it.

If you are looking for non-fluoridated, non-toxic toothpaste that is effective and safe for you, the kids, and your loved ones follow or copy this link (http://www.mysisel.com/vip/thoughtfulhealth/productscategory.htm?categoryId=83) for your answer. You can also find other great non-toxic dental products for your family to enjoy.

Sources:
http://fluoridealert.org/toothpaste

Akiniwa, K. (1997). Re-examination of acute toxicity of fluoride. Fluoride 30: 89-104.

Gessner BD, et al. (1994). Acute fluoride poisoning from a public water system. New England Journal of Medicine 330:95-9.

Levy SM, Guha-Chowdhury N. (1999). Total fluoride intake and implications for dietary fluoride supplementation. Journal of Public Health Dentistry 59: 211-23.

Spak CJ, et al. (1990). Studies of human gastric mucosa after application of 0.42% fluoride gel. Journal of Dental Research 69:426-9.

Shulman JD, Wells LM. (1997). Acute fluoride toxicity from ingesting home-use dental products in children, birth to 6 years of age. Journal of Public Health Dentistry 57: 150-8.

Whitford GM. (1987). Fluoride in dental products: safety considerations. Journal of Dental Research 66: 1056-60.

Is Vitamin Water Bad for Your Health? Well...It Won't Help It

How innocuous is Vitamin Water? Its water and vitamins, right? What is the harm? When you watch the comical commercials you would think Vitamin Water was some sort of miracle tonic from yesteryear. Up all night clubbing and drinking? Down a Vitamin Water. Playing hard on the court or ‘ye old’ ball field? Pep up with Vitamin Water. After all, the water hydrates you and all those vitamins are great for energy and rejuvenation. A closer look, however, reveals a beverage that is at best mediocre and at worst an outright detriment to health.

Let’s start with what should be obvious about any type of water. Water has no color yet Vitamin Water does. This fact is often overlooked but is very important. The Coca Cola Company, having made $700 million last year distributing Vitamin Water, adds artificial dyes to the water. These chemical dyes have been linked to ADD/ADHD and other adverse health conditions.

Then we come to the sugar content. Vitamin Water is sweetened with crystalline fructose, a version of High Fructose Corn Syrup. Consuming Vitamin Water can inevitably lead to spikes in blood sugar which ultimately crashes. It is the spike that makes you feel ‘energized’ giving you a false sense of energetic elevation. Unfortunately the crash leaves you needing another sugar fix or you must face the wrath of lethargy and poor performance. While we are on the subject of wrath, let us consider all of the sugar that is in Vitamin Water. It contains approximately 30 grams or 6 ½ teaspoons of sugar. By contrast a Hershey Bar has 24 grams of sugar. Along with the spikes and crashes the toxic nature of processed sugar must be considered. Over consumption of sugar hinders the body’s immune system by adversely interacting with the white blood cells changing their shape, number and function. Processed sugar has no place in a beverage that claims to be beneficial to the body.

Calorically Vitamin Water can sabotage a workout. The nutritional label, an oxymoron in regards to this product, explains that there are 50 calories per serving. Unfortunately, there are 2 ½ servings per bottle for a total of 125 sneaky calories. When you consider what processed sugar does to the immune system combined with blowing up your workout due to calories or adversely affecting your athletic performance (sugar crash) it hardly seems worth it.

In addition to everything that has been mentioned the true crime are the vitamins. People who think of Vitamin Water somehow think vitamins are in it. That’s probably because the name is ‘Vitamin Water’. In nature there are many vitamins ranging from A to K and the B complexes are numerous but Vitamin Water only contains five – C, B3, B5, B6, and B12. To add insult to injury these few vitamins (and the electrolytes as well) are synthetic. Synthetic vitamins are not always bioavailable. In other words, the body may not recognize the synthetics as vitamins. So, Coca Cola only uses five vitamins in their product and they may not be assimilated in the body. Brace yourself because the insults continue. If the body doesn’t recognize the synthetics as vitamins they are attacked by the immune system as a foreign substance. This taxes the immune system in addition to sugar’s role in adversely affecting it. No wonder chronic illness is so prevalent with the dubious nature of products marketed in a way that makes us think they nourish us.


If you are working out, playing hard or just wanting to recharge drink some purified water and eat a small healthy snack. You could also insist on an all-natural, non-toxic beverage. They do exist. Be aware of what you consume and let LeBron and 50 Cent (avid spokesmen for Vitamin Water) consume this nutritionally suspicious product.

For a great non-toxic, all natural and rejuvenating beverage checkout SISEL Splash at: http://www.mysisel.com/vip/thoughtfulhealth/productdetail.htm?id=2022

Distracted to Death: The Taco Bell Lawsuit

Taco Bell has found itself in the midst of a lawsuit and the gest of it is this: Taco Bell sells a beef mixture as opposed to 100% beef as it claims. A class action suit brought by an Alabama law firm alleged that the 'beef' in Taco Bell products are nowhere near the 100% claim but is actually closer to 35%. The remaining 65% is a combination of grains, spices, and chemical fillers and binders.

According to the USDA, if the ingredients are as the suit alleges, Taco Bells meat mix does not meet the minimum requirements to be called beef.

The class action suit didn't seek any monetary damages. Indeed, all that was sought was advertising that is no longer deceptive by making Taco Bell tell the truth about their so-called 'beef'. It seems like a reasonable request worthy of the time and attention or is it?

Taco Bell's current legal woes has been created by the good intentions of others but we know where the road paved with good intentions lead to. There's no doubt that if Taco Bell is being deceptive they should be held accountable. However, most people who consume food products from the Bell aren't likely to care that their burrito or chulupa is mostly a hybrid beef concoction. In fact, most consumers of Taco Bell are only interested in a quick, cheap meal.

Realizing this made Taco Bell's reaction very curious, however. They went on an all out advertising campaign with TV commercials and full page newspaper ads but who are they trying to convince? On the one hand you have a class action lawsuit that would not have changed much of anything if it succeeded or failed (it has since been dismissed). On the other hand Taco Bell is defending itself to a public that doesn't care what percentage of beef is in their products.

The beef percentage isn't the main problem

Lost among the ad blitzs and lawyers is a real and material matter that has a point that needs to mercifully emerge for a better, healthier tomorrow. That point lies in the ingredients and how they affect the body. Let's take a closer look at the ingredients which are:

Beef, Water, Seasoning [Isolated Oat Product, Salt, Chili Pepper, Onion Powder, Tomato Powder, Oats, Soy Lecithin, Toasted Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Maltodextrin, Sugar, Soybean Oil (Antidusting Agent), Black Pepper, Oregano, Cumin, Autolyzed Yeast Extract, Citric Acid, Caramel Color, Cocoa Powder (Processed With Alkali), Lactic Acid, Natural Flavors, Natural Smoke Flavor, Modified Corn Starch], Salt, Sodium Phosphate.

Right out of the gate some hidden allergy issues must be addressed. It is not uncommon for people to be allergic to soy, oats or maltodextrin (maltodextrin is derived from corn) which could lead to life threatening situations or other allergic reactions that are simply regarded as nuisances. Consumers would likely never know out was the 'meat' in their Nacho Supreme that caused their reaction. And since a list of these ingredients are not prominently posted in the restaurant how would a consumer know.

Along with the potential allergic reactions is the nearly automatic inflammatory response caused by more than a few of the ingredients. Chronic inflammation is a mostly unaddressed negative hallmark of human health today. One of the chief causes of inflammatory responses is sugar especially refined sugar. When you take a look Taco Bell's beef ingredients you may be surprised that they use four different kinds of refined sugar (maltodextrin, sugar, caramel color, cocoa). These simple sugars enter the blood stream quickly creating inflammation and spiking insulin and triglyceride levels. Consistent increases and spikes of insulin and triglyceride levels leads to metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity which is reaching epidemic proportions in western societies.

A third and final point to be made is the hidden MSG used by Taco Bell. It's called autolyzed yeast extract and it is a well known excitotoxin. The "excito" part explains how it stimulates nerve cells in the brain. The "toxcin" part describes the fact that the simulation leads to damaged nerve cells in the brain and eventually cellular death. In addition, it is thought to cause scarring in the hypothalamus which controls appetite. A damaged hypothalamus leads to increased appetite leading to more consumption making people heavier (obese). There are a few more ingredients of concern but for the sake of brevity we'll move on.

Taco Bell is certainly not the only questionable food entity out there. The fast food industry as a whole needs to be addressed. With that said the lawsuit being leveled against Taco Bell was a honorable endeavor. No know one wants to be lied to but it must be seen for what it is: a distraction. When it comes to what really matters, however, the true mark is missed. We simply end up going in circles without the information that would truely benefit society and we end up distracted to death.

Sources

tacobell.com

msgmyth.com

naturalnews.com/009379.htm

msgtruth.com

www.foxnews.com/health/2011/01/25/wheres-beef-taco-bell-sued-ingredients/?cmpid=cmty_email_Gigya_Taco_Bell_Sued_Over_Meat_That's_Just_35_Percent_Beef

A return in imminent!!!

Dear readers of this blog:

I will return shortly to posting full content weekly. I am in the midst of finishing up my certification work in nutritional consulting. It will definitely enhance the content of the blog and will allow me to continue on with my course work in holistic health. Thank you for your patience and go in good health!

USDA Guide to the Obvious

The USDA has issued new dietary guidelines for the American consumer. These guidelines are intended to improve the health and well being of concerned citizens who wish to lead healthier lives. With heart disease and obesity reaching unheard of levels the potential guidance is needed now more than ever. And what gems has the USDA come up with? How about eating less fats and sugar, exercising more, and consuming fewer calories. Great advice for the masses but it's hardly a revelation. Most people know to do these thing already. Check out my article at QW Magazine: http://qwmagazine.co.uk/science/8793
to get my full view on this subject and a little advice to boot!

Milk: Another White Lie Part 3

This may seem a little strange to see in print but there is a lucky minority that exist when it comes to milk. That group consist of people who are lactose intolerant. Why do I consider them lucky? It's because their bodies readily identify that dairy is not the best choice for us after being weened from our mothers. Most people lack the enzyme lactase which we tend to stop producing after about two years of age. Lactose intolerance is an extreme version of the allergic reactions most of us encounter. The most common allergic reaction is stomach upset such as bloating, gas and diarrhea. The lesser known reactions occur most often in people who don't consider themselves to be lactose intolerant or allergic to milk in general. Chronic sinus infections are most often blamed on pollen, pet dander, dust, aliens and Bill Cosby. While these things do have a place in our nasal miseries (not you Mr. Cosby) you will be hard pressed to find anyone who blames the massive amount of dairy consumed each day by unsuspecting folks. Thanks to the flood of dairy propaganda that milk is wholesome and does a body good we would never question milks role. The irony is that milk is the most common food allergy but rarely is recognized as such. Besides the lactose intolerance the protein found in milk also contributes to allergies as well so the lactose isn’t the sole villain.
Babies are especially susceptible to milk allergies. The American Society of Microbiologist found that some cases of crib death could be attributed to milk allergies in infants. The symptoms for these allergies can range from diarrhea, persistent colic, and vomiting to eczema, hives, bronchitis, asthma and sleeplessness. It is suggested that cows milk not be given to infants younger than four months old.
​If you are suffering from chronic sinus infections or gastrointestinal issues check your dairy consumption and ask yourself could it be the aliens or the milk?

​Sources:
​The Optimum Nutrition Bible by Patrick Holford

​http://www.naturalnews.com/026461_products_food_butter.html

​http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/health-news/2009/09/07/more-mums-give-their-kids-organic-milk-as-survey-confirms-reduced-risk-of-asthma-and-eczema-86908-21654409/

Milk: Another White Lie Part II

IGF, or insulin-like growth factor, is a hormone that occurs in the human body naturally. As its name implies it assist with growth and is found in large quantites in children. By adulthood IGF is nearly non-existent because growth is done.


IGF-1 is found in cow's milk and is intended to assist baby cows in their growth and developement. Adding to already high levels of IGF-1 todays milk practices increases those levels through the use of rBGH (recombinate bovine growth hormone). Increased rBGH use has exposed more people to increased the amount of IGF-1 consumed.

Why is IGF-1 consumption such an important issue? As previously mentioned IGF helps things grow. All sorts of things in fact. Unfortunately for humans some of the things excess IGF can help grow are cancerous and non-cancerous tumors. Research has shown how moderate IGF-1 level increases can cause adverse health conditions. For example, men with an 8% increase in circulating IGF-1 were seven times more likely to develope prostate cancer. Women who had increased IGF-1 levels also had increased incidences of breast cancer. In fact a study conducted in China found that women in the top 25% of IGF-1 levels as compared to other women had a 2-3 times greater occurrence of breast cancer. A similar study conducted in England on men found a similar correlation. Those men in the top 25% were 3 times more likely to develope prostate cancer.

Are you wondering why cancer correlations deal specifically with breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men? IGF-1 is produced in abundance in the young especially during puberty. During puberty one of it's key functions it's to simulate the growth of breast tissue in girls and prostate growth in boys. After puberty IGF-1 production falls off to very modest levels having done that bulk of it's work. We, as humans, can increase our circulating IGF-1 levels threw consuming dairy products but for some it will be at our own cancer causing risk.

The next post will address the issue of lactose intolerance and other milk allergies.