All I Want Is To SLEEP!

Practical Sleep Tips Train your brain and body for restful sleep.  Try these practical inexpensive tips which are proven to help you get a good night’s sleep. Get exposed to natural light. Studies show that people who aren't exposed to enough natural light during the day have trouble producing melatonin at night. Open the blinds first thing upon waking to take in more natural light. Or, better yet, take the dog for a morning walk.  Drink tart cherry juice. In one study drinking 1oz. of tart cherry juice daily resulted in napping less during the day, sleeping longer and better at night. It appears that the juice stimulates melatonin. Fuel early fuel well. Start the day with a balance of protein and slow-burning or low-glycemic carbohydrates, such as whole-grain toast and a poached egg to help keep energy on an even keel.  Dine for sleep. Research has suggested that for some people it may be helpful to eat dinner about four hours before bedtime and to include plenty of complex carbohydrates and food high on glycemic index like rice and potatoes. Limit bedtime snack to less than 200 calories, no closer than one hour before bedtime.  Avoid stimulants such as caffeine (after noon) and chocolate (six hours prior to bedtime).  It may also be helpful to avoid   strenuous exercise before bedtime. Get outside in the early afternoon. Step outside into sunlight. It can help you perk up, delaying that melatonin surge until you really need it. Exercise.  A Stanford study found that those who did aerobics or took brisk 30- to 40-minute walks four times per week for 16 weeks fell asleep faster and slept more deeply and longer. Power down. One hour before bedtime, settle in and prepare for tomorrow. Journalize your thoughts “out of the brain and onto paper” so they don't race through your head as you're trying to sleep.  Wake up at the same time every day.  By getting up at the same time every day including weekends, your “sleep hunger” which builds up throughout the day maxes out at the same time every night. Create an atmosphere in your bedroom that is conducive to sleeping: low lights or darkness, a humidifier for dry climates, a comfortable temperature, and a good sleep surface. Don't use the bedroom to read, watch television, or work.  Turn off the computer, tablets, phones 2 hours before bed. Calm your thoughts before you sleep.  Read, soak in a warm bath, listen to music, or meditate. Picture sunbathing near the ocean or lying beside a quiet creek—whatever image calms you.  Use a lavender-scented diffuser in your bedroom. The scent is known to have sedative properties.   Ayurveda practitioners recommend going to bed by 10 pm at the latest to take advantage of your natural circadian rhythms.  This allows you to use the sleepier, quieter Kapha time of night to help you fall asleep. Melatonin is a great supplement to help naturally fall asleep.  Most melatonin supplements are synthetic and may not get the results you were hoping for so look for a live source such as Melatonin Liposome from Physica Energetics. Avoid using electronics at least two hours before bedtime (computer, iPad, iPhone, etc.). These electronic devices, particularly the T.V. and computer, have screens that emit blue light – almost the same as sunlight exposure. When exposed too close to bedtime, your brain shuts down the melatonin production believing it’s still daytime. With a healthy circadian rhythm, the brain begins secreting melatonin between 9 and 10 pm. When excessive light is introduced after sunset, you disrupt this natural cycle which then manifests as insomnia or un-restorative sleep patterns. Darkness is your friend because a room with light disrupts your internal clock. The pineal gland produces the melatonin and serotonin that is so vital for biological balance; even a tiny glow from a clock or electronic gadget can interfere with sleep. The best remedy is to simply turn face of clock around or cover it. To ensure the best possible sleep and healthy hormone production, the following is recommended:   Close bedroom door if external light or noise can easily be heard.  Avoid loud alarm clocks; instead get one that has a mellow sound or soft music. Waking suddenly by jolting the body with loud noise is very stressful to the body.   Eliminate night lights in the bedroom and any light visible from the bedroom, if it cannot be closed off. When possible use blackout shades, drapes or an eye mask when bedroom is not completely dark. Keep bedroom temperature cool. Studies show the optimal sleeping room temperature is between 59-64 degrees. When you sleep, your body’s internal temperature drops to its lowest level, usually about four hours after falling asleep. Scientists report a cooler room (ambient air temperature) contributes to a better sleep because it mimics your body’s natural temperature drop. If you’re cold, use warmer nightwear, a lightweight organic down comforter or bedding but don’t raise the overall room temperature. Eliminate all electronic devices because the electro-magnetic fields (EMF’s) disrupt the pineal gland and the production of melatonin and serotonin, the same as light does. If you want to prove to yourself how much exposure is emitted from these devices, buy a Gauss Meter. They are available online and range from $49 to $250. For those that are already victims of an immune system disorder or reactive to EMF’s it is recommended to shut down all power to the bedroom by pulling that circuit breaker before going to bed. Remember that EMF’s are emitted especially by chargers (cell & cordless phones, iPads, etc.) and, therefore, should be kept as far from the bedrooms as possible, preferably at over 15-20 feet. Your bed is for sleeping; not for watching T.V., reading, using an iPad, iPhone or listening to music. This room should always be your sanctuary for rest and rejuvenation and free from anything that stimulates the brain; even bright colors. Avoid sharing your bed with pets, restless sleepers and those who snore. Recent studies show that many sleep disorders are actually from sharing a bed with someone that constantly interferes with your sleep. In these cases, you might be forced to sleep in a separate bed or even bedroom in order to get good quality and restorative sleep. I do know of individuals who sleep with their pets because it’s calming, if that’s the case and you don’t have allergies to them, enjoy but it is not healthy to sleep with your pets as much as you love them. What encourages healthy sleep? Avoid consuming liquids 2 hours before going to bed; this will eliminate or minimize trips to the bathroom that disrupts sleep. Be sure to void your bladder just before going to bed. Maintain continuity in times you go to bed and awaken – even on weekends and holidays. Sleeping in, even occasionally, will disrupt your natural circadian rhythm. Your body recharges between 11 p.m. and 2: a.m. and is also the time your gallbladder “dumps” toxins. If you’re awake, those toxins may back-up into your liver – your chemical processing plant. We should take lessons from history when our ancestors went to bed shortly after sundown, as most animals do, and Mother Nature intended for us as well. Create a bedtime routine that includes medications/supplements, deep breathing, personal care, etc. Do whatever you need to maintain a pattern that becomes automatic so it’s stress free, even laying out your wardrobe or packing your brief case for the next day so you don’t have to think about it. Consume a high protein snack a couple of hours before bedtime; this helps provide L-tryptophan needed for production of melatonin and serotonin – a neurotransmitter that controls our “feelings” such as depression, hunger, thirst, sleep and other “moods.” Turkey is my preferred snack because it’s high in natural L-tryptophan;  the following foods also contain good levels Baked potatoes with their skin Bananas Beans Cheddar Cheese Cottage Cheese Eggs Fish Gruyere (a type of Swiss cheese) Hazelnuts Heated milk Hummus Lentils Kelp Meat (including red meats) Milk Nuts Peanuts Rice Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Sesame Seeds Shellfish Soy Milk Soybean Nuts Sunflower Seeds Swiss cheese Tofu Tuna Turkey Yogurt Eat a small piece of fruit because it helps transport tryptophan across the blood-brain barrier. Avoid grains and sugars before bed; they raise blood sugar and delay sleep. The sugar causes an unhealthy rise in blood sugar and when it “dumps” it can cause you to wake up and then unable to fall back asleep. Create a Zen space for relaxation before bed; a hot bath with organic sea salts and/or an essential oil that is calming like lavender, hot shower, or even a steam bath. Your body temperature is naturally raised in the late evening and it will fall at bedtime helping to induce sleep – signaling the body it’s time for bed. If you’re one of those who’s feet are always cold, consider placing a hot water bottle or microwaveable pack at the foot of your bed. If your feet are cold you will have trouble getting and staying asleep. I like an electric bed-warmer pad; I heat the bed about one-hour before bedtime and then unplug it before getting in to avoid EMFs. Do not do any work at least two hours before bedtime so your brain can “unwind.” If you’re as sensitive to caffeine as most of my clients, avoid anything that contains it after 2 p.m. Studies show caffeine is not efficiently metabolized in some people and they may feel its stimulating effects long after consumption. Also,keep in mind that some medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, contain caffeine, know what you’re consuming! Don’t exercise atleast two hours before bedtime as it will stimulate your body and mind rather than relaxing it; studies show exercise in the morning is best. Studies show that sleep apnea can be caused by excess weight. If you need to lose those extra pounds, maybe knowing it can affect your sleep will provide that added incentive. Avoid alcohol;the short-lived calming effect will have the reverse effect hours later because it prevents you from entering those deeper stages of sleep so necessary for repairing and rejuvenation. Karen Johnson is a Certified Naturopathic Practitioner (ND) Karen can be reached at KJ Wellness Solutions in San Juan Capistrano. KJWellnessSolutions.com 949-400-5455

No more sick kids!

How to prepare for a Healthy School Year Even though temperatures are still getting warmer, the days are getting shorter and this means only one thing - summer is coming to a close. With fall right around the corner, now is the time to build the foundation your kids need for a healthy school year.  This means less sick days, less school days missed, less time off of work and hopefully an all around better year in the classroom.     That's why one of the biggest spikes in illness for families happens during the first month of school.  You know the routine - noses start to run, sneezing, sore throats, low grade fevers, congestion...   If you end up in the pediatrician's office, you just surround yourself with more sick people.  Most of the time the doctor prescribes an antibiotic along with cough syrup.   Here's the problem with that - If the infection is viral or mold based, the antibiotic will do more harm than good.  Taking it will contribute to damaging the healthy bacteria living in your gut and predispose you to chronic recurrent infections. Cough syrups contain genetically modified corn sugar and other toxic ingredients that contribute to poorhealth.   The beginning of the school year can be difficult for any child, especially their immune system. They go from basking in the daylight and replenishing their vitamin D levels, to sitting in a classroom for most parts of the day.  These tips below are designed to help you and your family have a safe and healthy school year. Teach children to wash hands frequently with warm soap and water. Children should wash hands for about 20 seconds; roughly equivalent to the time it takes you to sing Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. Teach children to sneeze or cough into the inner arms where the elbow bends, instead of directly into their hands, which helps to prevent spreading germs. Before school starts make sure your child is up to date with their dental cleanings, physical exams, eye exams and hearing tests! Remind children of other good hygiene practices – showering daily, remembering to use a tissue, clipping nails etc. Avoid sharing personal items like food, hats and water bottles. Before school starts, get back into the school year routine. Give them a bedtime that allows for adequate amounts of sleep each night. Have a healthy diet. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, avoid processed foods, sugar and other artificial ingredients. Before taking certain vitamins like vitamin D, you should have your healthcare provider order a 25-OH-Vitamin D blood test to help you get a more accurate understanding of how supplementation your child needs. Supplements and Herbs to Build up  Your Immune System Probiotics like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are the beneficial bacteria found inside our intestinal tract. They have the ability to stimulate the development and maturation of our immune system cells. Probiotics fromPremier Research Labs are the most effective for immune support Vitamin D plays a critical role in immune response. It assists the body in making well over 200 antimicrobial peptides necessary in fighting off a wide range of infections. Apex Energetics makes a yummy creamy liposomal formula your kids will love! Elderberry (Sambucal)is a herb that has long been used for its ability to boost immune system functions. It has strong anti-viral properties, which make it great for preventing and treating colds and flus. Even better, it can be taken daily, and used more frequently to help fight off an infection when needed. Physica Energeticsmakes an easy to use dropper bottle with added immune boosting herbs. Zinc is a mineral that is essential to our immune system and helps to keep it strong. Research has shown that use of zinc lozenges significantly reduces the duration of the common cold. While it is important to have enough zinc, 15-25mg per day, too much may actually weaken our immune system function Vitamin C (corn free) -Premier Research Labs Not all Vitamin C is what you think!   Are you Currently Using Real, Non-Toxic Vitamin C?  Probably not! About 99% of all vitamin C products on the market today are synthetically made ascorbic acid – or variations such as calcium ascorbate, magnesium ascorbate or potassium ascorbate. Despite marketing claims, these laboratory-produced powders are not natural vitamin C — and far from it. They are chemically synthesized molecules manufactured in a test tube and are often made from genetically modified corn sugar. These synthetic molecules mimic only one component of the multitude of life-supporting nutrient complexes found in real natural vitamin C. Synthetic Ascorbic Acid is not only ineffective, but can also be Toxic! Ascorbic Acid increases the absorption of iron, which leads to free radical production. Free radicals are extremely harmful to the body and are a main cause of chronic and degenerative disease as well as cancer.    Recommended Use: Adults or children: Take 1 capsule, 3 times daily. For special programs, up to 12 capsules can be taken daily.    Bio-Immunozyme Forte - Biotics Research May be used with both chronic and acute-phase immune insufficiency. Good overall protection during COLD and FLU Season.  Have your kids start taking 1 a day for preventation and immune building. Colostrum - Premier Research Labs  Colostrum is especially beneficial for infants, young children and adults who have never been breast-fed.  Ideal Support for the Following: Weakened immune system (especially during pregnancy) Recovery for during or after surgery, injuries and colds/flu Failure to thrive in babies  Functions as a stand-in immune system during immune stress (excellent for elderly patients) Supports regular bowel movements; helps the body overcome loose stool/diarrhea Infants and young children that have never been breastfed Poor Spleen Function – Low white blood cell count and low red blood cell count Poor Breast milk production       Supplements and Herbs for Brain Support Fish Oils contain an omega 3 called Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). DHA is critical for brain health and function throughout all stages of life. DHA is important for ongoing brain, eye and heart health.   For Children:  Increased Cognitive Functioning Improved Vision Healthy Blood Vessel Functioning in Children with High Cholesterol Levels Essential for Healthy Mental Development   Key Benefits for Adults: Reduced risk of Alzheimer's dementia May play a role in reducing the risk of certain neurological diseases Decreases the risk of developing Age-Related Macular Degeneration, a major cause of blindness. Essential for Optimal Cardiovascular Health: reduction in triglycerides and an increase HDL levels Increases Brain and Cognitive functioning Improves Mood Karen Johnson is a Certified Naturopathic Pratictitioner (ND) She can be reached at KJ Wellness Solutions for any of your health concerns. KJWellnessSolutions.com 949-400-5455

Cold Laser at KJ Wellness Solutions

We Now Offer Cold Laser Therapy!             Friends,    We now offer cold laser therapy at KJ Wellness Solutions. 949-400-5455.   The TQ Solo Cold Laser sends photon (light waves), directly into your injured tissues, reducing pain and stimulating healing. The laser does not generate any heat, and is completely safe and pain free to use throughout the body. It can penetrate five centimeters into muscle tissue without being absorbed by skin or fat. If you're suffering from muscle, joint, tendon or nerve pain, TQ Solo Cold Laser therapy can help you heal faster and experience rapid relief. The TQ Solo Cold Laser is painless and non-invasive, and has been clinically proven to rapidly reduce pain and inflammation, increase the speed of healing, and improve the strength of tissues.       The TQ Solo Cold Laser is FDA-approved, with NO PHYSICIAN PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED, and can successfully treat muscle, joint and nerve pain associated with:  Rheumatoid or Osteo-Arthritis  Back Pain  Tendonitis  Carpal Tunnel Syndrome  Fibromyalgia  Plantar Fasciitis  Headaches  TMJ Syndrome  Degenerative Disc Disease  Muscle Spasms or Stiffness  Post-Surgical Pain  Post-Trauma Acute Pain  Herniated Discs  Intractable Pain  Posterior Facet Syndrome  Sciatica  Sprains and Strains  Wound Healing What to expect during your treatment:  Information regarding expected treatment frequency and duration, and a quick skin inspection pre and post treatment. Clients lying face up for treatment will be asked to wear Safety glasses as will the therapist administering the laser. You will not feel any discomfort throughout the treatment. Treatments are tiered according to severity or acuity of condition. Your therapist will advise you accordingly. The TQ Solo Cold Laser treatment is priced as follows: $15 for 2-10 minutes(1-5 laser head size locations). Some common conditions and treatment time frames to help you determine approximate cost are listed below. Remember, your condition may respond differently to these recommended parameters. Common Conditions: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome    8-10 visits Headaches                          3-5 visits Shoulder Pain                      5-10 visits Neck Pain                            8-10 visits Low Back Pain                     8-10 visits Sciatica                                8-10 visits Hamstring Strain/Tear         8-10 visits Knee Pain/ Osteoarthritis     5-10 visits Heel Spur                             3-5 visits Plantar Fasciitis                    5-8 visits Bell's Palsy                           8-10 visits TMJ Pain                              5-8 visits Ankle Sprain                         5-8 visits Tennis Elbow                       5-8 visits Mention this email for 1 free Laser Treatment! Package Pricing: Buy 9 laser Treatments at $150 dollars, receive the 10th Free! 949-400-5455

Coconut Oil Pulling

 

 

 

 

Do This EVERY Morning With Coconut Oil 

 

Let’s face it, we are exposed to an alarming amount of toxins on a daily basis. From the BPA that lines your canned goods to the pesticides liberally sprayed on anything alive these days, our bodies are constantly absorbing an outrageous amount of chemicals.

Even though you may try to live as pure a life as possible, sneaky sources of dangerous metals are everywhere, even in the so-called “all natural” products that fool consumers into believing these ingredients are safe. These "all natural" pre-packaged foods are usually the worst of them all!

Over time, high concentrations of metals build up in our systems and can lead to a wide variety of conditions, including, but not limited to: Anemia, Dizzniess, Fatigue, Dry Skin, Joint or muscle aches, Loss of appetite, Blood pressure issues, Nausea and even Vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

Try as you may, there’s just no getting around the obscene amounts of toxins we are exposed to daily.

Introducing the Coconut Oil Pulling Method:

Modern naturopathic practitioners are joining with ancient Ayurvedic health practitioners in an understanding of just how powerful a detoxification and healing tool oil pulling really is. Although coconut oil is not the only oil that can be used to oil pull (others include sesame, sunflower and olive), we love its long list of health-promoting properties (for both oil pulling and/or coconut oil ingestion), listed below:

• Antibacterial—stops bacteria that cause gum disease, throat infections, urinary tract infections and ulcers in their tracks
• Anticarcinogenic—keeps dangerous cancer cells from spreading while boosting immunity
• Antifungal—destroys infection-promoting fungus and yeast.
• Anti-inflammatory—suppresses inflammation and repairs tissue.
• Antimicrobial—inactivates harmful microbes and fights infection.
• Antioxidant—protects from free radical damage.
• Antiparasitic—can help rid the body of tapeworms and other parasites.
• Anti-protozoa—kills protozoan infection in the gut.
• Antiviral—helps to kill dangerous viruses that cause influenza, measles, hepatitis and more.

Some positive side effects of oil pulling 
may include the following:

• Overall strengthening of teeth, gums and jaw
• Plaque prevention
• Prevention of halitosis (bad breath)
• Prevention of cavities and diseases such as gingivitis
• Prevention of lip, mouth and throat dryness
• Possible remedy for jaw soreness and TMJ
• Relief of migraine headache
• Hormone imbalance correction
• Inflammation reduction
• Support of normal kidney function
• Relief from sinus congestion
• Relief from eczema
• Improved vision
• Pain reduction
• Aids in detoxification
• Helps with insomnia

Follow these instructions to perform the oil pulling method:

1. Oil pulling should be done on an empty stomach (preferably first thing in the morning)

2. Use one tablespoon of organic virgin coconut oil – you may want to start with ½ tablespoon and work your way up to a tablespoon.

3. Swish the oil around in your mouth slowly and be sure that the oil reaches all parts of your mouth – do not swallow.

4. Swish for five to ten minutes. Try to work up to twenty minutes if you can.

5. Spit out all of the oil when you are doneand rinse your mouth with water.

6. Brush with a natural toothpasteafterwards.

Note: Some people may feel a bit ill during or after oil pulling – this is generally a good sign that your body is removing toxins and should dissipate as you become healthier.

Daily oil pulling with organic coconut oil along with consuming a healthy diet, getting plenty of exercise and sleep will help your body stay sharp and ready to defend the onslaught of toxins you face each day! And your dentist just may be amazed at your next appointment in a few months at how much better your oral health is becoming!

Not only is coconut oil a great oral health and detox tool, its other benefits will amaze you. But unfortunately this tropical treasure has become one of the most falesly villified superfoods that mainstream media has continually bashed. That's because the mainstream ideas of health and nutrition couldn't be further from the truth. Here's why...

The REAL Truth About Coconut Oil

Plus, Four “Common Yet Dangerous” Oils You Should Never
Eat... If You Want to Heal, Beautify and Restore Your Body!

Here's a newsflash I'm sure won't surprise you... nothing concocted in a laboratory can ever replace the value of what is found in nature!

Mother Nature is incredibly generous in the way she provides - offering a bounty of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins, minerals and nutrients to nourish your body so you can enjoy a long healthy life.

One fruit in particular - the coconut - is so abundant in its healing properties it's referred to as "the tree of life." And before World War II, people living in island countries, like the Philippines, consumed a diet that consisted mainly of rice, root crops, vegetables and an abundance of the ultra-healing superfood, the coconut.

The coconut is a "functional food" rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber - the essential nutritional building blocks for perfect health.

For generations, island people considered it "The Cure for All Illness" and consumed the meat, milk and coconut oil daily. Although this diet was high in saturated fat, Western conditions like diabetes, cancer and heart disease were virtually unheard of.

Filipinos and islanders were instead rewarded with a lovely youthful complexion, soft wrinkle-free skin, almost no skin cancer - even with excessive exposure to year round sun - and abundant good health.

Coconut oil in particular has been shown to protect you from viruses, bacteria, infection, cancer, thyroid, brain and heart problems... plus beautifies your skin - and even burns fat!

Coconut oil - a saturated fat - is chock-full of health-promoting properties - and is in no way responsible for high cholesterol, obesity, heart disease and the bad effects you've been led to believe.

Finally, modern medicine and science are starting to realize this fundamental truth... and it's been a long time coming. But sadly not before heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity and a whole host of other catastrophic diseases have reached epidemic proportions!

The Saturated-Fat Myth That Robbed 
You of Your Good Health!

Before World War II, the miracle-healing coconut had been used to help alleviate:

• Coughs
• Constipation
• Malnutrition
• Skin infections
• Toothaches
• Earaches
• Flus
• And more!

But that all changed when the war ended and the United States proclaimed hydrogenated oils to be the "healthier oils." By the 1960s, a weak scientific theory claimed that saturated fats-like those found in butter, eggs, milk, red meat and coconuts - increased "bad" LDL cholesterol and were dangerous to consume.

Nothing was further from the truth! But this “health scare” was enough to push the public away from saturated fats and instead to refined vegetable oils. This was perfect for food manufacturers because they were far cheaper to produce.

It wasn’t long before Western-style diets made their way to the islands and the old ways were forgotten.

Cheaper, mass-produced hydrogenated foods replaced traditional foods, like the versatile and all-healing coconut oil that had kept the islanders healthy for generations.

And for the first time ever, diseases that had become prevalent among Americans… heart disease, diabetes, cancer and obesity started to plague the island nations.

The Four Unhealthy 
"Healthy Oils" You Should Never Consume!

Decades ago when food processing first began, it became regular practice to alter that which nature provided. Thus began the era of "frankenfoods."

Whole, nutritious natural foods that mostly came straight from the farm to the table were replaced by over-processed, refined and chemical laden, mass-produced convenience foods.

And fats were no different. Over four decades healthy sources of fats were replaced with vegetable oils that were thought to be "better-for-you." We now know they've done more harm than good.

The following four are the worst offenders you should avoid at all costs:

Canola - Animals and insects avoid it in nature, here's why you should too...

There is no such thing as a canola in nature. Canola oil is actually a modified version of rapeseed oil. Asian and Indian cultures used rapeseed oil for centuries, but it was never consumed in the large quantities that Americans do.

The rape plant (in the mustard family) contains cyanide-containing compounds and wild animals and even insects avoid it in nature.

The refining process of deodorizing and bleaching to become canola oil involves exposing rapeseed oil to high heat, which greatly reduces the omega 3 content (perhaps it's only original redeeming factor).

Consumption of this "GMO Oil" has been linked to muscular disorders and fatty degeneration of the heart, kidneys, adrenals and thyroid gland. To avoid it, check labels closely - even in so-called healthy products - because it's practically everywhere.

Cottonseed Oil - An industrial plant saturated with pesticides...

Thousands of commercially produced foods contain cottonseed oil; everything from canned foods to chips and other packaged items. It is even in beverages such as Gatorade. However, cotton is not a food crop, and is therefore not treated like an edible crop but an industrial one.

Virtually anything can be sprayed on cotton plants to ward off insects and induce growth. Dangerous poisons such as trifluralin, cyanide, dicofol, propargite and naled are used on cotton crops. These work their way deep into the plants, literally transforming them into toxic organisms.

While it may be ok for making pants and shirts, cottonseed oil is truly not safe to consume. The majority of cotton plants are genetically modified - altered at the molecular level. Even though we are not eating the cotton plant directly, the extracted oil contains the same properties as the plant.

Besides a high amount of omega-6 fatty acids, cottonseed oil has a similar protein structure to peanuts, so people who are allergic to peanuts may have a serious allergic reaction to this oil, as well. However, the FDA does not require an allergy label on the oil - even though peanut oils can be fatal.

Safflower - Studies show an increase of Omega-6 also increases the rate of death by heart disease, reason enough to avoid this oil...

If you still believe that saturated fat and cholesterol are a direct cause of heart disease then safflower oil probably seems like a healthy swap.

Previous studies had found that by substituting animal fats with vegetable oils such as safflower, cholesterol levels would indeed drop.

However, what the earlier studies failed to evaluate was the high ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fats in these oils and that the amount of omega-6 fatty acids in the American diet was growing astronomically.

Researchers now have evidence that it may not be cholesterol that kills, but omega-6's. When a group of individuals replaced animal fats with omega-6-rich safflower oil, their cholesterol levels decreased, however, the rates of death from cardiovascular disease and coronary artery disease increased significantly as compared to those consuming the animal fats.

These results prompted researchers to re-evaluate their theories on saturated fat, cholesterol and heart disease and point the finger at the formerly dubbed "heart-healthy" omega-6 fatty acid.

Soybean - The GMO, hormone disrupting nightmare "health" food they keep telling you is safe...

Oh, the ever-questionable soybean. While marketers will have you believe that soy is beneficial because our healthy Asian counterparts consume it regularly, this is arguably one of thebiggest nutritional myths out there. Asians enjoy soy in its fermented state and in considerably smaller quantities than we do.

Ninety-three percent of American soy is GMO and most of the soy we consume is in its unfermented state. This highly processed soy has been linked to numerous conditions including thyroid damage and hormone disruption thanks to its large quantities of estrogen-like compounds called phytoestrogens. As for soybean oil, up to 80 percent of the oil we consume today is soybean oil.

It's highly processed and heavily hydrogenated and found in a vast majority of products on supermarket shelves. And don't think choosing organic soy makes you any safer... as some so-called "organic" soy farms have been found to be fraudulent... passing off the GMO-product for the real thing. It's best to avoid soybean oil completely.

We can almost guarantee you have one of these oils or foods containing these oils sitting in your pantry right now. Maybe you even used one of these oils when you cooked your dinner last night. And today you're coming to the sad realization that YOU'VE BEEN LIED TO BY THE FOOD MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY.

Actual healthy foods have been vilified-and your "so-called" healthy food choices have been manipulated by manufacturers getting richer by the day. All while your diet has grown more and more nutritionally-void every day!

Is this drink causing your weight issues?

 

Unsuspecting Ways This Popular Berry-Derived Drink Is Draining Your Energy & Your Health

 

 

The Odd Berry You Probably Didn't Know Existed

 

Even though berries are very small, when it comes to nutrients, they pack a punch.

Berries contain a multitude of antioxidants while also being low in sugar making them

pretty much a super fruit.

 

Although in this case, I think you will be shocked to hear there is one berry that is doing you more harm than good.

 

In fact, there is a good chance this berry is draining your energy and causing you to gain weight right this second!

 

You might be thinking, "I only eat healthy berries like blueberries, strawberries, and

raspberries so that doesn't concern me."

 

Think Again!

 

The truth is if you are like roughly 64% of Americans, you drink a beverage derived from this elusive berry on a daily basis!  Many actually drink this berry beverage multiple times a day.

 

I want to tell you about the only berry that leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.  This berry is draining the energy and health from millions of people all around the world.  The worst part about this berry is that it's actually the main ingredient in a beverage that you and millions of others are likely drinking on a daily basis.

 

I am sure you are wondering what this berry derived drink is.

 

The drink I will be discussing is...........COFFEE!

 

YES, that's right coffee lovers,  I said Coffee!

 

Most people don't know that coffee beans actually come from berries.  Once ripe,

coffee berries are picked, processed, dried, and shelled in order to harvest the "bean"

(which is really a seed) inside.  The beans are then roasted to varying degrees before they

are ground and brewed to make coffee.

 

 

 

The Bitter Truth About Coffee

 

Did you know that caffeine is the world's most widely consumed drug and it's main source is coffee?

 

Think about it.....how many people do you know who say they can't face the day without

their cup of coffee?  I am sure your list is pretty long!

 

The next question I have for you is, are YOU on that list?

 

If the answer is yes, well it's time for you to face the facts, whether you like it or not,

that you could be doing more harm to your body than good.  And, especially if you require

coffee to simply function

 

Most coffee drinkers are addicted to the stimulation and energy boost they feel after each

cup.  The IRONY is that the more coffee you drink, the less energy you have and the

more coffee you need to feel that initial caffeine effect.

 

Believe it or not, you favorite quick energy "go-to" beverage is actually robbing

you of your energy and health.

 

The truth is that coffee is negatively affecting your body in 3 unsuspecting ways:

 

1.  It spikes your blood sugar.

2.  It causes your energy levels to crash (after that initial boost) while increasing your risk for adreal fatigue.

3.  And, unless you buy organic, it likely contains high levels of pesticides and toxic mold.

 

 

 

The Dangerous Ingredient That Spikes Your Blood Sugar & Increases Belly Fat

 

When you consume "uppers" like caffeine your adrenal gland will begin to secrete

stress hormones - adrenaline and cortisol

 

Having these two hormones chronically circulating in your bloodstream is not

desirable especially if you are trying to lose weight or having issues controlling

your blood sugar levels.

 

Let me explain what's happening......

 

Cortisol and adrenaline both breakdown your glycogen stores

(stored carbohydrates) which causes glucose (sugar) to be released into your

bloodstream.  When this happens your pancreas is called into action because it

produces and secretes the hormone Insulin.

 

It is Insulin's job to remove the dangerously high levels of glucose (sugar) from your

blood so it can be stored in your muscle, liver, and fat cells.

 

When your blood sugar rises, as it does when you have high levels of circulating cortisol

and adrenaline, you feel an initial surge of energy.  However, with a massive release of

insulin that follows, your blood sugar quickly plummets as much of that sugar is shuttled

out of the blood and into your muscle liver, and fat cells.

 

As a result, that initial jolt of energy has left you feeling out of sorts.  You feel spacey,

foggy, and in need of another caffeine fix.

 

When your blood sugar crashes, so does your ability to make sensible food choices and thus

start craving high sugar foods like cookies, candies, and more caffeine because that's

what will raise your blood sugar level the quickest.

 

If you are trying to lose or maintain your weight, these are obviously NOT the types of foods

you should be eating.  The icing on the weight gain cake is that chronically high cortisol levels

have been shown to cause the accumulation of belly fat.

 

As if all that weren't enough, because of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) causes lethargy

you will also crave more caffeine to boost your energy.  This just sets you up for a vicious

cycle of high-highs followed by low-lows followed by even more sugar consumption!

 

 

Your Adrenals & The Extreme Fatigue Epidemic

 

For the most part, people drink coffee to boost their energy levels.  What they don't realize is that
this "quick fix" solution actually causes adrenal burn out and low energy levels.

Your adrenal glands are little walnut sized organs that sit on top of your kidneys.  Anytime stress
or stimulation appears, no matter what the type, your adrenal glands will begin pumping out stress
hormones to prepare your body.

This means your adrenal glands respond the same way whether the stimulation is from the caffeine
in your coffee or the stress of losing your job.

So, on top of financial stress, work stress, and family stress  you are also throwing caffeine into
the mix.  This means that your adrenal glands never get a break.

How would you feel if YOU never got a break?

When you drink coffee it causes your adrenals to secrete these "fight or flight" hormones.  This is
why you feel that initial surge of energy.

But as you know, that energetic feeling doesn't last forever and it is soon followed by a crash,
which often causes you to seek out more coffee and sugar.

So here lies the problem.

The lifestyle most people lead in this day and age is one of high stress.  Everyone is very "go, go,
go, go, go" and most are  over caffeinated too.

This combination of being overly stressed and overly caffeinated is leading to an extreme
fatigued epidemic.

People seem more tired than ever before even though they are consuming caffeine on a daily basis.

If you can relate to this, there is a good chance you are suffering from either the beginning
stages of adrenal fatigue or full-blown adrenal fatigue.  And, it just so happens, caffeine is one of
the biggest culprits of this condition.

Overtime, continued stimulation of your adrenal glands will wear them down.  When this happens you are no longer able to deal with even the smallest of stresses and you feel instantly drained in
stressful situations.  Your adrenals simply can't keep up the "stress demand" and your body is
thrown into survival mode in which it shifts to storing fat instead of using it.

The Hidden Danger In You Morning Coffee

 

In recent years, consuming specialty coffees from big named coffee shops has become

more popular than ever.

 

But here's what you likely don't know about your favorite coffee drink:

Although you pay a hefty price for it, unless it's organic, it is likely ridden

with pesticides and toxic mold.

 

Most big name coffee shops do not readily serve organic coffee.  This means that the

 coffee they serve is made with beans that are sprayed with pesticides.

 

So basically, your daily specialty coffee could also give you a healthy dose of toxicity!

 

Here's the thing,  the majority of the coffee these shops sell is grown in developing countries.

Unlike the United States, these countries do not strictly regulate the amount and type

of pesticides being used on their crops.

 

Research in the Journal Food and Chemical Toxicology revealed that 18 of 40 coffee

brews from commercially available coffee beans contained a toxic mycotoxin called

Ochratoxin A.  This mold is essentially a type of "natural poison" as it is toxic to the kidneys

and is also believed to be carcinogenic.

 

While measures have been taken to reduce the amount of mold toxins found in coffee

beans, much like pesticides, it is difficult to monitor since most coffee comes from

developing countries.

 

 

Is Decaf Any Better?

 

By now you might be thinking, "Okay, maybe I should at least switch to decaf."

Unfortunately, It could be a maybe but maybe not.

 

Another thing I bet you didn't know about coffee is that it is usually decaffeinated using

chemicals like methylene chloride and ethyl acetateis.  Studies have found that chemicals

like methylene chloride are linked with cancer.  This is why they have banned in other products

like hairspray.

 

The FDA claims that decaf coffee does not contain high enough amounts of either chemical

to cause cancer, yet when it comes to chemicals, the less you consume the better.

 

I do enjoy a nice cup of coffee every now and again.  It's a nice social indulgence.  However,

when I do drink it, I drink decaf and only the kind that has been decaffeinated through

Swiss Water processing.  This method uses carbon dioxide and water rather than toxic

chemicals to decaffeinate the coffee making it a much cleaner choice.

 

You might be thinking, "Okay, so I can't drink regular coffee and I can't drink decaf.  So

what am I supposed to drink?"  I am happy to tell you that you do have options.

 

I'm not here to tell you to stop drinking coffee.

That's for you to decide.  I do know that reducing the amount you drink and, at the very least,

switching to decaf will do you a world of good.

 

However, if you are ready to experience life without caffeine then I've got a few

ideas that can help you.

 

If you are a regular coffee drinker you have two options: taper down your coffee consumption

rather OR quit cold turkey.  The latter will be more difficult initially (due to withdrawal symptoms)

but it provides the most immediate energy benefits once your body has adapted.

 

Another thing you can do to make your transition off coffee a little easier is replace your

daily coffee habit with a healthier more energizing habit. 

 

Here's a couple of options.

 

Tumeric Latte

Here's how to make it :

 

1 1/2 cups almond milk

1 tsp turmeric (organic)

1/2 tsp cinnamon

pinch of cloves

pinch of black pepper

pinch of pink salt

1 Tblsp of raw honey

 

Directions :

Place all ingredients into a saucepan and heat until desired temperature is reached.  Whisk

occasionally to ensure it is mixed well.  Enjoy.

 

 

 

Teeccino is also one of my favorite coffee replacements that has many different coffee

like flavors.  It can be brewed like coffee or it's also sold in individual tea bags.

 

Dandy Blend is a powdered tea mix that has a coffee latte taste.  So yummy!

 

Another simple thing you can do to boost your energy is drink more water.  I know that

sounds so boring but it's really what your body wants.  You should aim to drink half

your bodyweight in pounds, in ounces of water each day.  If you weigh 160 lbs, then that would

be 80 ounces of water - almost 3 liters.

 

Instead of that morning caffeine, start your day with half a liter of water ( you can add some

fresh lemon wedges for even more benefit) then continue to increase your water consumption

throughout the day.  If you make this one simple change you will be shocked by how much more

energy you have,