Dr. Group's recent blog posts. View this email in your browser. Are Your Candles Emitting Toxins? Published May 30, 2015 Candles are great for encouraging relaxation and creating a calm, serene environment. A candle’s aroma and soft, warm glow sets a nice tone for romance, sophistication, and tranquility. Most candles today feature a variety of aromas. While refreshing they may be, the chemicals used to produce those fragrances can be toxic and can contribute to air pollution. Fortunately, there are safe options, and it's just a matter of being conscious during your purchasing decisions. The Health Dangers of Candles Let's take a quick look at the components of many candles, and how each component may be contributing to a toxic environment. The Health Dangers of Candle Wicks One of the main concerns over candles, besides the scents, is the wick. Different wicks are used for different purposes and they can be divided into two main categories: cored and non-cored wicks. Non-cored wicks are usually made of a braided or twisted cotton and considered the safest to burn. Cored wicks are usually cotton around a paper or metal core. Zinc, tin, and lead are standard compounds used in its composition. Burning candles with lead-cored wicks is now known to cause lead poisoning, and there are similar concerns about zinc-cored wicks. In 1974, the National Candle Association of the U.S. voluntarily stopped using lead-cored wicks because of risks with airborne lead. [1] Unfortunately, many countries outside of North America still produce candles using dangerous wicks. In 2000, the Public Citizen’s Health Research Group published a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association that indicated that candles with wicks containing lead were available at 12 different stores in the Washington-Baltimore area. [2] Testing showed that the candle containing the least lead would, during three hours of burning time, produce enough air lead concentration so that a normally active six-year old would exceed the recommended daily lead limit for children in 45 minutes. The authors concluded that there is no reliable method to distinguish lead-containing wicks from other metal-cored wicks. The Health Dangers of Candle Wax The type of wax the candle is made of and and how the candle is burned significantly affects air quality. A candle burned in a draft with a smokey, guttering flame will be emitting particulate matter in every direction. If you prefer a candle that has a metal-cored wick, ask the manufacturer what metal is in the wick. If they can’t or won’t tell you, for safety’s sake, choose another candle. The Health Dangers of Artificial Fragrances Beeswax and bayberry wax both contain natural scents, beeswax offering the sweet smell of honey and bayberry a spicy, fresh aroma. Scents added to wax vary in their source and composition. Originally, perfumes came from animal and vegetable sources. In the late 1800s, the first synthetic fragrances were produced and were quickly adopted as a cheaper source of aromas. Many people today are sensitive to artificial scents from perfume, candles, and even air fresheners. Fragrance oils are specially made for particular uses, such as scenting candles, soaps and cosmetics, or potpourris. They are usually synthetic. Exact formulas for fragrances fall under the trade secrets act in the U.S., but manufacturers of the oils will normally be able to produce a Materials Safety Data Sheet which will cover the physical characteristics of the oil, physical or health hazards, and first aid treatment in case of an accident. Candle scents contain stabilizers and fixatives which allow the oils to mix with wax and give off an aroma when heated. Essential oils are naturally-occurring oils that are extracted mainly from botanical sources. They are usually more expensive than synthetic fragrances, and may not blend well with candle wax. They are more volatile than synthetics and most of them are difficult to use in candles unless they have added stabilizers or fixatives. Other Additives Stearic acid was once the only additive available for paraffin candles and is derived from either animal fat or palm oil. It is now often replaced with Vybar, a polymer which raises the melting point of paraffin, allows scents and colors to blend evenly in the wax, and gives the paraffin some of the qualities of more expensive waxes, allowing candle makers to charge more for a cheap candle. Microcrystallines are a group of substances derived from petroleum that are added to candles to change the texture of the wax, add gloss, increase opacity, etc. Polyethylenes are produced from natural gas. They add gloss, luster, or clear crystals to wax. The Bottom Line on Candle Safety When candles are lit, they emit these chemicals into the air, the air we breathe. Our bodies take the burden of this indoor air pollution, with unknown toxic effects. The American Lung Association even warns people from burning scented or slow-burning candles that contain artificial ingredients. In addition, they suggest burning beeswax candles instead with metal in the wick, or candles that are greasy to the touch. Choosing Safe Candles Buy candles from trusted countries. Imported candles often come from countries where they employ chemicals no longer used in North America because of health concerns. Find out what the wick is made of. If your vendor can’t tell you, don’t buy it. Cotton or hemp wicks are considered to be the safest. Choose candles made from beeswax or soy wax. Avoid paraffin. Be aware that many candle manufacturers make claims for their candles or waxes that can’t be substantiated or are untrue. No candle is “soot-free” because combustion causes soot; however, beeswax and soy wax don’t produce sticky, black, petroleum-based soot. Do you have a safe candle recommendation? Leave a comment below and share it with us. -Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM References: National Candle Association. FAQs. National Candle Association. Public Citizen. Millions of Dangerous Candles Sold Throughout U.S. Public Citizen. The post Are Your Candles Emitting Toxins? appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog. Join the conversation and voice your opinion! Comment on this Article Now! More from Dr. Group's Blog: Global Healing Center Weathers the Storm in Houston Everything You Need to Know About Vitamin B12 (Webinar) Are Probiotics Right for You? Why is Refined Sugar So Bad for Your Health? The Benefits of Organic Shampoo Copyright © 2015 Global Healing Center, All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you signed up to receive daily updates on Dr. Group's blog posts. Our mailing address is: Global Healing Center 2040 North Loop West, Ste. 108 Houston, TX 77018 Add us to your address book unsubscribe from this list | update subscription preferences

A very special Saturday email! No more excuses :)

 

 

I recently went to a juice bar to get my green juice fix and their juicer was broken! Instead of turning me away, they did this.

In this brand new post, I share how to juice without a juicer and the top 3 reasons why I juice. They are very important reasons, don't miss them – especially #3!

And that reminds me… don't forget this! If you order the Food Babe Juice Guide before midnight tonight, I'm holding a special live webinar to walk you through all the details, my personal detox strategies, juicing tricks, and answer any questions you might have. This is a very special event and I'm not offering it to anyone via social media or anywhere else.

Xo,

Vani

P.S. Hope you have a great Saturday, it's a perfect day to download this guide now and start juicing!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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P.O. Box 31521 Charlotte, NC 28231

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Dr. Group's recent blog posts. View this email in your browser. Global Healing Center Weathers the Storm in Houston Published May 29, 2015 It's been crazy the past few days here at Global Healing Center. As you've probably heard, Houston was recently hit with an epic storm that caused a lot of flooding and damage. Our main office is in Houston and it even lost power for a couple days. But, that didn't stop our team. Despite the heat and lack of air conditioning, everyone here at GHC came together and we were still able to fulfill orders and respond to customers. When the chips are down, we step up! Fortunately, the building’s power has been restored and we're back in full swing. Thank you for your support and understanding during this hectic time! Compiling orders for shipping. The team weathering the storm and coming into to help out with orders and answering emails. One of our vital team members helping pack orders. Another view of GHC helping out. The post Global Healing Center Weathers the Storm in Houston appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog. Join the conversation and voice your opinion! Comment on this Article Now! More from Dr. Group's Blog: Are Probiotics Right for You? Why is Refined Sugar So Bad for Your Health? The Benefits of Organic Shampoo Why You Should Use Aluminum-Free Deodorant Check Out Dr. Group on Hulu! Copyright © 2015 Global Healing Center, All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you signed up to receive daily updates on Dr. Group's blog posts. Our mailing address is: Global Healing Center 2040 North Loop West, Ste. 108 Houston, TX 77018 Add us to your address book unsubscribe from this list | update subscription preferences

Yes, I eat croissants on vacation… I am human!

After trips, long weekends, not eating at home for a long period of time or when I just need a reset, I always go straight to this plan.

When I eat out (even at some organic restaurants) there can be way too much salt and the temptation for the dessert menu seems to always get me!

I just got back from a beach trip to the French West Indies with family and friends. Croissants and the most delicious bread were served everywhere! It was hard to resist and I didn't!

A few days off my regular eats, I always feel a little puffy and not myself. This is why as soon as I get home I'm dying to get back on track.

There's nothing like feeling great and looking great all the time!

One way I do this is to up the green juicing (at least twice per day), increase the amount of raw vegetables I eat and head straight to the yoga studio.

I put the plan I follow into a Juice Guide for ya to have as well…

To follow this plan, you don't need to jump off the deep end – you can use the recipes and guide as you wish. You can complete a 3-day juice cleanse, or just add 2 of those juice recipes to your regular diet each day. There's also a full 8 day reset that includes raw meals to help flush the salt and up the nutrient density of your meals.

The reason I love this reset so much is because it feeds the brain with super nutrients! When your body is getting enough nutrients, your cravings can literally vanish and your body starts to sing. You will naturally start to want foods that are good for you – something I need right now after eating all those croissants!

I find myself having more energy and my skin and eyes start to sparkle from all of the goodness I am putting inside my body.

If you get this guide before tomorrow at midnight, I'm holding a special live webinar to walk you through all the details, my personal detox strategies, and answer any questions you might have. This is a very special event and is the 2^nd time I've ever offered anything like this. I want to get to know you personally and help guide you as much as I can!

Along with this special Webinar, the guide contains everything you need to know:

• The incredible benefits of juicing and what you can expect
• Juicing how-to's and how to choose the best juicer for you
• Help navigating store-bought juices and what to look for and avoid
• Do's and Don'ts of a juice cleanse (This one is so important!)
• A 3 day and full 8 day juice cleanse calendar and tips (including what to eat before & after with full recipe choices)
• All of the juice and meal recipes you need for a successful cleanse
• Answers to all of your questions and customer support

Even if your goal isn't weight loss or looking better, juice cleanses can clean out cobwebs everywhere, including bringing greater awareness to your mind and spirit. Some of my best ideas in life have come while I was on a juice cleanse!

By getting this guide, not only are you setting yourself up for a healthy life but you are also supporting the investigations that I bring you completely free each month. Taking on the big food industry is no easy task but with your support it's happening! Look at what we've accomplished so far – it's incredible, isn't it?

Get the Juice Guide HERE and start today!

I'll be cheering you on along the way,

Vani

P.S. Remember, if you order this guide within the next 24 hours, you'll be invited to a special live Webinar next week. This is only available if you sign up before midnight tomorrow 5/30. Sorry to be such a stickler, but I can't accept any exceptions because of the logistics.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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P.O. Box 31521 Charlotte, NC 28231

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I bet you ate this as a child too.

So much is happening.

Companies are changing left and right. This is the start of a major food revolution and it's all because of you!

Taco Bell and Pizza Hut just announced they will be removing artificial colors and flavors from some of their food. When I wrote about them last year (and you shared the investigations), millions of people read the truth about these companies and now they are owning up to making some changes. We still, however, have a lot more work to do! These companies are using a lot of processed ingredients, hidden MSG that contributes to food addiction, and factory farmed meat that is given antibiotics and raised with growth hormones and GMOs – food that I don't support. 

I have a lot more to say about the recent news and you'll be hearing more soon, until then, I want to tell you about a product that I used to eat as a child that you probably did too.

We used to have a Kmart really close by my house. Every time we would visit, I would beg my mom for Little Debbie Snacks for my school lunchbox. Those boxes of deliciousness (and now grossness) lined the end cap of the aisle so nicely by checkout, we just couldn't miss them when we walked by. Little did I know at the time, that I was eating one of the most controversial preservatives ever invented!

Read about this "food" and other products containing this ingredient here in this brand new blog post.

We definitely want to avoid these types of ingredients at all costs! Please spread the word.

Xo,

Vani

P.S. This weekend I'm kicking up my green juicing & raw eats to get ready for Summer. Tomorrow I'll share exactly how I plan to get started!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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P.O. Box 31521 Charlotte, NC 28231

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

Dr. Group's recent blog posts. View this email in your browser. Are Probiotics Right for You? Published May 26, 2015 Maybe you've heard how probiotics can help your digestion, perhaps you've even tried them. But do you know exactly what they are, and just how they work? Don't worry, because you're not alone. There's a lot of confusion about probiotics, and I want to try to clear that up as best as I can. Benefits of Probiotics Probiotics are really just live bacteria that are constantly replenishing and growing inside of your intestines. Don't freak out. A large number of these bacterial critters is actually a good thing, as they have been shown to be beneficial for healthy digestion, nutrient absorption, and even mood balance. After entering the body and feeding on prebiotics (food for probiotics, usually fiber), these microorganisms populate the microbiome, taking up residence in your gut. So while the main benefit is to the digestive system, studies suggest they could boost the immune system and even strengthen respiratory health. [1] [2] And probiotic supplementation could even aid in mental health! For years, scientists have noted the importance of maintaining healthy bacteria levels in the gut for physical health, but one recent study suggests decreased levels of gut bacteria could be connected to behavioral conditions like autism and depression. [3] Another report suggests probiotic treatments could even help autistic children by helping to counteract the "bad" bacteria. [4] Sources of Probiotics So now you've read about these microorganisms and what they can do, but where exactly are they found? Well, here are three foods that contain a plentitude of probiotics, and they're very easy to access. Yogurt For the full benefit, make sure you're buying or, even better, making your own live-cultured yogurt. Much of the yogurt you buy nowadays even has added probiotics like lactobacillus or acidophilus. Of course, you want to stray away from yogurt with high fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners. Kefir Sort of a cousin to yogurt, kefir is a fermented dairy product made from dairy milk and fermented kefir grains. Goat's milk is commonly used, especially since it's high in probiotics like thermophillus, bifudus, bulgaricus, and acidophilus. Kefir is also a great source of lactobacillus and bifudus. Tempeh Not only is tempeh a fermented soybean product rich in probiotics; it's also high in vitamin B12, making it a healthier substitute for meat or tofu. Probiotics: Why You Need Them Probiotic supplements are an excellent way to ensure a steady supply of probiotic strains in your intestines, especially when your diet is less than ideal. Remember, the goal with probiotics is to maintain or restore the balance of your gut's "good" bacteria, and taking antibiotics could actually work against that. You should never stop taking a prescribed medication without consulting your doctor, but a recent study suggests that common antibiotics could change "the microbial and metabolic patterns of the gut," decreasing the diversity of bacteria. [5] [6] So, are probiotics right for you? Let us know in the comments. -Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM References: Behnsen, J, et al. Probiotics: Properties, Examples, and Specific Applications. Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Medicine. West, N. P. et al. Probiotic supplementation for respiratory and gastrointestinal illness symptoms in healthy physically active individuals. Clinical Nutrition. 33 (4). Kang, D. et al. Reduced Incidence of Prevotella and Other Fermenters in Intestinal Microflora of Autistic Children. PLoS ONE. Patterson, P. et al. Microbiota Modulate Behavioral and Physiological Abnormalities Associated with Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Cell. 155 (7). Perez-Cobas, A. E. et al. Gut microbiota disturbance during antibiotic therapy: a multi-omic approach. Gut. 62. Hassan, T. Pharmacologic considerations for patients taking oral contraceptives. CONNECTICUT DENTAL STUDENT JOURNAL. The post Are Probiotics Right for You? appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog. Join the conversation and voice your opinion! Comment on this Article Now! More from Dr. Group's Blog: Health Concerns of Refined Sugar The Benefits of Organic Shampoo Why You Should Use Aluminum-Free Deodorant Check Out Dr. Group on Hulu! GMOs, Pesticides, and the Mega Corporations Behind Your Food Copyright © 2015 Global Healing Center, All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you signed up to receive daily updates on Dr. Group's blog posts. Our mailing address is: Global Healing Center 2040 North Loop West, Ste. 108 Houston, TX 77018 Add us to your address book unsubscribe from this list | update subscription preferences

Dr. Group's recent blog posts. View this email in your browser. Health Concerns of Refined Sugar Published May 24, 2015 Sugar consumption has steadily risen in recent years. The USDA has found that the average American consumes around 150 pounds of sugar per year. [1] Carbonated sodas are a major source of refined sugars in the American diet. Energy drinks are close behind, and even commercial fruit juices are working against us. Some of these fruit drinks are more additives and sugars (as much as 90%+) than actual fruit and stripped of fiber. Keeping the sugar and throwing away all the good stuff doesn't make for nutritious juice. Refined sugar is a problem yet sugar-laden beverages are purchased without hesitation by millions of people worldwide. The Health Dangers of Sugar The World Health Organization recommendation for sugar consumption is no less than 10% of calories, [2] but arguably, this recommendation should be much less. Those that are overweight, pre-diabetic, or suffering from any kind of health issue should limit and/or avoid sugar. Free sugar, meaning sugar that isn't bound to fiber in fruit, can lead to inflammation, blood sugar instability, and, over a period of time, type 2 diabetes. If there's no exercise in the equation, then the likelihood for developing these problems goes through the roof. A daily dosing of sugar causes altered internal pH levels resulting in a more acidic body. It is believed that an acidic environment is a breeding ground for disease, whereas an alkaline body promotes good health. [3] To correct any type of imbalance, the body draws on mineral stores. For example, to protect the blood, calcium is drawn from the bones and teeth — enough to weaken bones. This precipitates osteoarthritis. Refined sugar may even be damaging to the digestive system, particularly for those who have difficulty digesting carbohydrates. Sugar is Everywhere Around ¼ of the American diet is comprised of refined sugars, and when you take a look at the foods available at most supermarkets, this fact is hardly surprising. [4] Grocery store shelves are littered with junk foods–some of which are disguised as being healthy–that contain massive amounts of sugar. In fact, some prepackaged sports foods, like energy bars, contain more sugar than a candy bar! What's more, many foods contain hidden sugar, or sugar that is masked by other names such as high fructose corn syrup, dextrose, and sucanat. While sucanat is probably better for the body than HFCS, the effects of sugar on blood sugar and internal organs are similar. Do you avoid sugar? What have been your results? Please share with us your take in the comments! -Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM References: United States Department of Agriculture. Dietary Assessment of Major Trends in U.S. Food Consumption, 1970-2005. USDA. World Health Organization. Healthy diet. World Health Organization. Gerry K. Schwalfenberg. The Alkaline Diet: Is There Evidence That an Alkaline pH Diet Benefits Health? J Environ Publc Health. 2012, 2012: 727830. Barbara V. Howard, PhD; Judith Wylie-Rosett, RD, EdD. Sugar and Cardiovascular Disease. Circulation. 2002; 106:523-527. doi: 10.1161/01.CIR.0000019552.77778.04. The post Health Concerns of Refined Sugar appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog. Join the conversation and voice your opinion! Comment on this Article Now! More from Dr. Group's Blog: The Benefits of Organic Shampoo Why You Should Use Aluminum-Free Deodorant Check Out Dr. Group on Hulu! GMOs, Pesticides, and the Mega Corporations Behind Your Food Ozonated Olive Oil Promotes Oral Health Copyright © 2015 Global Healing Center, All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you signed up to receive daily updates on Dr. Group's blog posts. Our mailing address is: Global Healing Center 2040 North Loop West, Ste. 108 Houston, TX 77018 Add us to your address book unsubscribe from this list | update subscription preferences

Dr. Group's recent blog posts. View this email in your browser. The Benefits of Organic Shampoo Published May 23, 2015 Shampoo seems like a harmless enough item. But in reality, many shampoos contain chemicals that your body absorbs. Chemicals, like parabens and sulfates, interfere with the endocrine system and can up your chances for serious diseases. [1] With this reality staring us right in the face, it only makes sense that we seek out healthier, all-natural options. Shampoo Ingredients to Avoid When shopping for shampoo and conditioners, read the labels before purchasing. Here are a few of the specific ingredients you need to look out for: Sodium Lauryl Sulfates — Known to cause cataracts in adults and improper eye development in children. Regardless, it's used in most store-bought shampoos and conditioners. Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate — A surfactant moderately associated with organ toxicity. Derivatives of Lauryl Alcohol — Thought to be harmful to the organ system and can cause irritation to the skin and the eyes. Propylene Glycol (Antifreeze) — High concern for skin and lung irritation and organ toxicity. Olefin Sulfonate (Deodorized Kerosene) — Possibly harmful to organ and hormone function, also highly irritating. Ingredients Commonly Found in Organic Shampoo Organic shampoos and conditioners usually contain much safer plant-based products. Tea tree is common and has been used for a long time to support scalp health and dandruff, not to mention fighting bad breath. Certified organic tea tree also has antiseptic elements that can aid in controlling naturally-occurring microbial levels that can result in different forms of scalp irritation. Another popular ingredient in many organic shampoo and conditioner products is beta glucan. Beta glucan has immune-enhancing properties both internally and topically. [2] It helps to soothe inflamed cells of the scalp, which is particularly beneficial for people who suffer from skin conditions. The Bottom Line: Organic is Best True organic shampoo and conditioner products offer a wealth of benefits for your hair and scalp that will be immediately noticeable. Organic products gently infuse your hair follicles and skin cells with natural minerals, herbal extracts, and oils. If you are looking for shampoos that stimulate healthy hair growth, look for products made with aloe vera and coconut oil, as they naturally moisturize your scalp. If you need enhanced shine and moisture for your hair, organic shea butter is an important ingredient to look for in your organic shampoo. -Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM References: Bledzka D, Gromadzinska J, Wasowicz W. Parabens. From environmental studies to human health. Environ Int. 2014 Jun;67:27-42. doi: 10.1016/j.envint.2014.02.007. Heike Stier, Veronika Ebbeskotte and Joerg Gruenwald. Immune-modulatory effects of dietary Yeast Beta-1,3/1,6-D-glucan. Nutrition Journal. 2014, 13:38. doi: 10.1186/1475-2891-13-38. The post The Benefits of Organic Shampoo appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog. Join the conversation and voice your opinion! Comment on this Article Now! More from Dr. Group's Blog: Why You Should Use Aluminum-Free Deodorant Check Out Dr. Group on Hulu! GMOs, Pesticides, and the Mega Corporations Behind Your Food Ozonated Olive Oil Promotes Oral Health Where to Find Natural Building Materials Copyright © 2015 Global Healing Center, All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you signed up to receive daily updates on Dr. Group's blog posts. Our mailing address is: Global Healing Center 2040 North Loop West, Ste. 108 Houston, TX 77018 Add us to your address book unsubscribe from this list | update subscription preferences