Organic Well Being

Sunday, December 21, 2014

5 Reasons Phthalates Should Be Banned Immediately

5 Reasons Phthalates Should Be Banned Immediately

Posted: 20 Dec 2014 07:00 AM PST

Not that long ago, I talked about 12 ways toxins are sneaking into your life, and while all toxins are bad news, there's one group that should be banned immediately. I'm talking about phthalates; these are a class of chemicals that are added to make plastic flexible. For that reason, they're also commonly referred to as plasticizers. Because they affect reproductive system development, the US government made the smart decision to keep them out of children's products, banning six of them. This seems like a good thing, right? Well, it's a start. The problem is there are a lot more than six types, and there's nothing stopping manufacturers from using unbanned ones. That ban also only deals with kids' products, so where does that leave the rest of us? Well, if you're still wondering why phthalates are so bad, here are five reasons they should be banned this instant.

1. Phthalates have infiltrated children's food.

I mentioned my "12 Toxins" post earlier, and this topic came up there, but I want to talk a little more about it. There's a fairly mysterious thing happening right now: phthalates are getting into some infant diets and at very high levels. Now logically, you'd think if phthalates are taken out of kids' products—and, for the most part, they are, since the ban covers the six most commonly used ones—there'd be no room for exposure. It's thought it could happen somewhere in food processing, or—since phthalates bind to fat molecules—the chemicals might even be in the animal feed and move on from there. Basically, the food is exposed to phthalates before it gets to the table.

2. Phthalates are in plastic medical devices, and they're harming preemies.

While phthalates might be well regulated in toys, that's not the case when it comes to medical supplies. Exposure can be toxic, but these plasticizers are still used heavily in plastic medical devices—the same devices keeping our preemies alive! Most hospitals and clinics don't regulate how these chemicals are used, so the most vulnerable of infants could be struggling to breathe on a ventilator with plastic tubing. That breathing tube likely contains phthalates that the infant will inhale. A recent study even found that, over time, preemies are exposed to toxic levels that can affect not only reproductive development but also liver function. ^[1]

3. Phthalates are destroying our ecosystems.

What's more, phthalates are contaminating our waterways. Plastic litters our oceans–traditional water bottles are a large culprit, for example—so it makes sense that phthalates will make it into the water supply as those items decompose. Two things can happen now: marine life can either eat the plastic directly, or just be constantly exposed to phthalates in the water. While it's still unknown what this toxic marine life means for us, if phthalates are getting into infant diets somehow, could this be a culprit?

4. Phthalates cause hormone imbalance.

Another area of concern is the lack of regulation on personal products. It's thought that phthalates can disrupt levels of hormones like estrogen and testosterone. I already mentioned that phthalates can affect reproductive health, but there is also a risk for cancer. Think about it: do you wear makeup or use a moisturizer? Phthalates are often used to help dissolve ingredients. Do you use hairspray? Manufacturers use plasticizers to keep your hair from becoming too stiff. Studies have even found that your exposure to toxic phthalates is higher based on what personal care products you use. ^[2] ^[3]

5. Kids exposed in the womb to plasticizers are more likely to have asthma.

Even more worrying is the possible link to childhood asthma. From 1998 to 2006, scientists studied the phthalate levels in over 300 pregnant women. Research found that the children of the women with higher phthalate levels were 72 to 78 percent more likely to have a diagnosis of asthma than those of the women with low levels; that number is over three times the national average when it comes to asthma! ^[4]

So, are you convinced that phthalates should be banned immediately? Maybe there's something you know about phthalates that's not listed here. By all means, leave a comment below about what you think about these nasty toxins.

References:

Mallow, E.B. & Fox, M.A. Phthalates and critically ill neonates: device-related exposures and non-endocrine toxic risks. Journal of Perinatology 34, 892-897.
Braun, J., Just, A, Williams, P, Smith, K., Calafat, A. & Hauser R. Personal care product use and urinary phthalate metabolite and paraben concentrations during pregnancy among women from a fertility clinic. Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology 24, 459-466.
Dodson, R. E., Nishioka, M., Standley, L. J., Perovich, L. J., Brody, J. G., & Rudel, R. A. Endocrine Disruptors and Asthma-Associated Chemicals in Consumer Products. Environmental Health Perspectives, 120(7), 935–943.
Whyatt, R. et al. Asthma in Inner-City Children at 5–11 Years of Age and Prenatal Exposure to Phthalates: The Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health Cohort. Environmental Health Perspectives, DOI:10.1289/ehp.1307670.

The post 5 Reasons Phthalates Should Be Banned Immediately appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

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Saturday, December 20, 2014

The Shocking Truth about High Fructose Corn Syrup (Video)

Posted: 19 Dec 2014 07:00 AM PST

Is high fructose corn syrup one of the most shocking ingredients found in your food? Watch this video and decide for yourself.

High fructose corn syrup is one of the most controversial ingredients used in the food industry today. An emerging area of science is showing the negative health effects of high fructose corn syrup on the cardiovascular system, liver, and brain. ^[1] Unfortunately, avoiding this toxic ingredient has become incredibly difficult to do. Food manufacturers tend to add the mercury-laden sweetener to seemingly unsuspicious foods, like pickles and bread. If you haven't heard the news about high fructose corn syrup, you may want to continue reading.

The Shocking Truth about High Fructose Corn Syrup

It's no secret that chemical alternatives are unhealthier than their natural counterparts. Take sugar, for example. Sugar is a natural food product derived from the sugarcane plant. The problem with sugar is that it is highly inflammatory and contributes to insulin resistance if consumed for long periods of time. ^[2] Artificial sweeteners came into the scene to fight these issues. Artificial sweeteners like aspartame actually cause more harm than good by contributing to decreased satiety and expanding waistlines. In fact, individuals who consume sodas with artificial sweeteners weigh more than those who consume traditional sodas sweetened with sugar. ^[3]

High fructose corn syrup follows the same path, except that it wasn't brought into the food industry with the intent to improve health. In reality, high fructose corn syrup costs less than actual sugar because it is much sweeter than sugar. Food manufacturers use less and earn more. It really is all about the money when it comes to this product. Food subsidies also put an enormous amount of attention in corn, the prime ingredient for producing high fructose corn syrup. This is why so many products, even those you would never imagine having the sweetener, contain high fructose corn syrup.

Surprising Health Effects They Don't Want You to Know

Studies have consistently shown that the consumption of high fructose corn syrup seriously damages the health of vital organs, including the brain. The corn industry is spending millions of dollars to keep the science hidden from public view, spreading half truths to protect their hidden agenda: profits. Money trumps health in the food industry, which is surprising considering that food is our primary source of sustenance.

One of the most shocking health effects of high fructose corn syrup is its possible link to Alzheimer's disease and other neurological disorders. ^[4] The sweetener is often laced with mercury, a compound that contributes to amyloid plaque buildup, a key component in Alzheimer's disease development. Corn syrup also increases obesity risk up to 300%, according to animal studies.

What You Need to Do

You don't have to give up your favorite treats just because you will be cutting high fructose corn syrup out of your life. All you have to do is be mindful of ingredient labels on the back of the packaging. If you see the ingredient anywhere in the ingredient list, find an alternative, preferably one that is organic. Don't forget including more fresh fruit in your diet which will provide a natural source of sugar that may help stave off your sweet tooth as well as reduce your caloric intake.

Do you avoid high fructose corn syrup? Have you noticed any benefits? Please let us know!

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

References:

Elaine Schmidt. This is your brain on sugar: UCLA study shows high-fructose diet sabotages learning, mermory. UCLA Newsroom.
Sharon S. Elliott, Nancy L. Keim, Judith S. Stern, Karen Teff, and Peter J. Havel. Fructose, weight gain, and the insulin resistance syndrome. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. November 2002, vol. 76, no. 5, 911-922.
Harvard School of Public Health. Artificial Sweetneners. HSPH. The Nutrition Source.
Dementia Today. Link Between High Fructose Corn Syrup Intake and Diabetes. November 30, 2012.

The post The Shocking Truth about High Fructose Corn Syrup (Video) appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

Friday, December 19, 2014

Organic.org

Aloe Vera: Natural Magic Bullet

Posted: 19 Dec 2014 06:02 AM PST

Aloe Vera is one of the most famous plants in the world. It is considered as a miracle plant because of its amazing healing health benefits. The aloe vera leaf is filled with gel and it is rich in vitamins like B1,B2,B6,B12,A, C and E, Niacin, Folic Acid.The Aloe Vera plant is easy to grow even in cold climates and many people grow it as a house plant.

Health Benefits and uses of Aloe vera juice

Increase Immune system

Drinking aloe juice regularly replenishes the amino acid deficiency in your body. The high vitamin content in it boosts up your body's immune system and self-defense mechanism.

Control Many Diseases

Drinking aloe vera juice help ease congestion, stomach ulcers, colitis, hemorrhoids, urinary tract infections and prostate problems.

Skin Care

Brighten skin. Aloe can decrease pigmentation and dark spots. Make skin new again with an exfoliating, organic sugar scrub by mixing together two tbsp. of aloe vera, 2 tbsp. of organic brown sugar and 1 tsp. of organic lemon juice.

Weight Loss

You must have taken slimming tablets or tried all the exercises and diets to lose weight. However, you didn't get the desired results. Do you want to lose weight naturally? Aloe vera juice is the easy and natural weight loss solution. It reduces weight by stabilizing the metabolic rate, reducing lipid levels and helping burn fat.

Control Diabetes

Aloe Vera is good for diabetes patients because it helps to regulate the blood sugar levels when consumed regularly. However, consult your doctor before you start consuming the aloe juice.You need to have the dose prescribed by doctor so that it doesn't interfere with the medicines you are having to curb blood sugar. Aloe vera plant is considered to be a miracle plant because of its too many curative and healing health benefits.

Hair Care

Speed up hair growth by massaging aloe into the scalp, letting it sit for 30 minutes, and rinsing. Reduce hair dandruff by mixing aloe vera juice with coconut milk and wheat germ oil. Massage into scalp and rinse.

Stimulates Metabolism

Aloe vera juice also increases energy level and helps to maintain a healthy body weight. Drinking aloe vera juice regularly stimulates the metabolism and helps the body to burn calories more quickly. So aloe vera keeps you slim naturally.

Help in Reproduction

Aloe vera tonic is wonderful for the female reproductive system. It helps to rejuvenate the uterus. It is very beneficial to drink aloe vera juice if you are experiencing painful menstrual cycle.

Use as Shaving Cream

In-the-know beauty buffs swear by pure aloe as the perfect shaving cream: It's antibacterial, which is great for nicks; it's slippery, allowing for a nice close shave; and it moisturizes, too. You can use it on its own, or combine with other nourishing ingredients for a more luxe (but still DIY) product.

As Face Wash

Mix 1 Tbsp aloe vera gel with 1 tsp almond milk, and 1 tsp lemon, wash and let sit for a few minutes before rinsing. Since some minerals found in aloe are antibacterial, this face wash is ideal for sensitive skin, breakouts, and rosacea, says Pekar. Need an anti-aging boost? Mix 1 Tbsp aloe with 1 tsp 100% raw organic coconut oil, massage into hands until the contents are warm, then wash and rinse.

Control Bad Breath

Come a little closer…no, actually—don't. When bad breath hits, drink up to 1/4 cup pure aloe vera gel dissolved in a 1/2 cup of water or apple juice, suggests herbalist Letha Hadady, author of Healthy Beauty. Aloe vera contains an anti-inflammatory compound called B-sitosterol that soothes acid indigestion, a common cause of bad breath. But resist the urge to chug; in large doses, aloe vera can work like a laxative.

Wrinkle Repair

Skin loves Vitamins C and E which are present in Aloe, helping to improve skins firmness and keep it hydrated. Combining virgin coconut oil can make a creamier way to supplement nutrients, essential fats and moisture. Aloe Vera gel penetrates skin almost four times faster than water, and its super emollient qualities help it moisturize the under layers of skin.

Gastrointestinal Disorders

For gastrointestinal disorders like indigestion, heartburn, stomach ulcers, haemorrhoids, congestion, urinary infections, colitis, prostate problems, rheumatism pain and arthritis, aloe vera juice can be taken orally. It helps in comforting these disorders.

Detox

Aloe vera juice can be a great natural option for detoxing. Because of the way we live including stress, pollution and junk food, we need to occasionally cleanse our systems. Aloe vera juice is an ideal way to do this because it contains many trace elements, vitamins and minerals that can help the body deal with daily stresses and strains.

Cardiovascular Health

Some research has shown that when doctors inject aloe vera extract into the blood, it drastically multiplies the diffusion abilities of red blood cells as well as the oxygen transportation. It contains nutrients that can regulate blood pressure, improve blood oxidation and circulation, lower cholesterol and make blood less sticky.

Get Rid of Eczema

Aloe vera can be applied topically to minimize inflammation, puffiness, and also itching onto the skin by using a lotion, cream, gel or shampoo. It is also available in tablet form, as a juice and a few other forms for the patients who wish to consume it orally.

Repair Damaged Tissue

Minimize damaged tissues because of frostbite. Try natural aloe gel from a bottle or perhaps straight from a plant's stem on to the infected place two times a day.

Vitamin and Mineral Source

Every day our body needs to ingest several vitamin and minerals and aloe vera juice contains a great deal of these. It includes vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin E, niacin and folic acid. In addition to these, it also contains chromium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, copper, potassium, iron, sodium, calcium and others.

[via Natural News | sources: Style Craze, Prevention, The Beauty Pixie]

The 4 Scariest Things about Lyme Disease

Posted: 18 Dec 2014 07:00 AM PST

Most of you have heard of Lyme disease, but do you know how it's caused? Sure, a tick has to bite you, but there's a little more to it than that. First, there are two types of ticks: hard and soft. This is important because the tick has to have a hard shell, and it needs to be infected with a class of bacteria called Borellia. ^[1] If that infected tick bites you, you'll develop symptoms like fever, headache, and fatigue. You might even develop a non-itchy rash that's warm to the touch. If you've been bitten by a tick lately and have symptoms, don't ignore them. If Lyme disease goes untreated, the joints, the heart, and even the central nervous system could be affected. ^[2]

4 Shocking Things about Lyme Disease

As if the above symptoms weren't bad enough, here are 4 pretty terrifying things about Lyme disease you may not know.

1. It's more debilitating than you think.

As the leading tick-borne disease in the United States, Lyme disease, while treatable, can take time to diagnose. Its symptoms often look like those of other illnesses and sometimes come and go. Waiting for a diagnosis can be awful, like in the case of a healthy, active 12-year old girl from Montana who became "feverish, dizzy, and doubled over with stomach pains every time she tried to exert herself." ^[3] In 6th grade, she missed a lot of school because of this; by 8th grade, she only attended her first day. Then we have a lawyer from Virginia who thought he had a bad case of the flu. Soon he felt so bad and all he could do was lie around. It wasn't until after fifteen months of treatment he began to feel better. It's not just the medical issues. For some, there's an emotional toll. Imagine being sick with no diagnosis in sight, or just not being able to do anything you used to without feeling bad.

2. It's nearly everywhere.

Call it what you will, but for many climate change has become a very real concern. What exactly does that have to do with Lyme disease? Well, warmer weather speeds up the tick's life cycle, meaning many successfully reproduce before dying. ^[4] That means more biting ticks. In 1991, the US had 10,000 reported cases of Lyme disease; by 2013, that number was over 27,000. It's not just the US that has seen a rise in cases; surprisingly, our neighbors to the North have their fair share. At one time, no one believed Lyme disease could even be a concern in Canada, but warmer weather has opened the door for infected ticks.

3. As far as tick diseases are concerned, it's just the start.

And you thought Lyme disease was bad. There's actually something even worse lurking in the bite of the lone star tick. As one of the soft ticks, its bite won't cause Lyme disease but it can release an antibody that can cause an allergy to a sugar called alpha-gal. ^[5] Found naturally in meats and in many products made from mammals, this sugar is practically everywhere. One person even had to stop taking her allergy medication because she was allergic to the added alpha-gal. Unlike with Lyme disease though, there is currently no treatment for this allergy. The lone star tick bite can also cause the deadly Heartland virus, which also has no known treatment. ^[6] That's just caused by one species of tick; there are still other tick-borne diseases that are much, much worse.

4. Mothers may be able to transmit it to their children.

While studies are inconclusive, there is evidence suggesting that Borellia, the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease, can be passed along in the womb. ^[7] Take, for instance, the case of Justine Donnelly. All her life, she had struggled with poor memory and anxiety. Before she was born, her mother was diagnosed with what was thought to be viral meningitis. Since Mom got a little better with treatment, life went on. After thirty years of never feeling great, Justine's mother got an actual diagnosis: Lyme disease. Because of that, Justine had herself tested, and the results were positive. While she could have gotten it elsewhere, Justine believes Lyme disease can be transmitted from mother to child. She's not the only one: there are many firsthand accounts from doctors suggesting the same thing.

So yes, while Lyme disease is very scary, a little common sense goes a long way. If you think you have symptoms, get them checked out. No one needs to suffer from this treatable disease, and always remember to take precautions against ticks when outdoors!

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

References:

Piesman, J., Mather, T. N., Sinsky, R. J., & Spielman, A. Duration of tick attachment and Borrelia burgdorferi transmission. ournal of clinical microbiology, 25(3), 557-558.
Hu, Linden. Clinical Manifestations of Lyme Disease in Adults. UptoDate.
Lavelle, Marianne. As Lyme disease spreads in the U.S., those in its path cope with a debilitating, bewildering array of maladies, misery and afflictions. The Daily Climate.
Lavelle, Marianne. Lyme disease surges north, and Canada moves out of denial. The Daily Climate.
Schuessler, Ryan. When the lone star tick bite, lives change. Aljazeera America.
Lavelle, Marianne. The nasty, scary world of emerging tick-borne disease. he Daily Climate.
Lavelle, Marianne. Catching Lyme disease in the womb? The Daily Climate.

The post The 4 Scariest Things about Lyme Disease appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

Thursday, December 18, 2014

Set down that alcoholic drink until you read this.

I am so excited that my publisher is allowing me to give you access to a very important chapter in my new book THE FOOD BABE WAY right now!

As you know, this book doesn't officially come out until February, 10^th but I just couldn't let the holidays and New Year's Eve slip by without giving you access to this information that many of you have been waiting for and asking for, for a long time!

I investigate beer, liquor and wine just for you to know the truth – and for the first time ever, I am revealing what's actually in the most popular alcoholic drinks, along with giving you helpful tips on what to avoid and the best options. There's a lot of partying going on and I want you to be armed with the facts!

As you might have read before on the blog, the government agency that regulates alcoholic drinks does not require alcohol manufacturers to label their ingredients or tell consumers what's actually in their drinks. After months of investigations, I finally got down to the bottom of this and spill all the details in this chapter of my book.

Get this chapter now HERE.

Xo,

Vani

P.S. This is just the first bonus of many to come! Pre-ordering actually affects the distribution and orders of this book, which means, every time someone pre-orders a book, book retailers get the confidence to carry this book in their stores. As you know, we are facing giant multi-billion dollar food, beverage and chemical industries that don't want this information getting out – so this purchase is absolutely critical in getting this into bookstores everywhere! Thank you for your incredible support! Everyone has the right to know what is in our food!

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8 Shocking Facts About GMOs

Posted: 17 Dec 2014 07:00 AM PST

Finding a food that has not been genetically modified can be tricky, at least if it isn't certified organic. That's because GMOs are produced by money-driven corporations seeking to prove their own idea that man is smarter than nature. GMOs are supposedly the answer to nature's mistakes, namely pests, disease, and the natural spoiling process. Despite the aggressive approach exerted by large corporate agricultural bodies, research continues to mount on the negative effects of GMO crops.

8 Shocking Facts about GMOs

GMO foods are probably not on your radar when it comes to healthy options, and rightfully so. Long-term studies of GMO food on human health have yet to be conducted. Genetically-modified organisms have infiltrated today's food supply, yet short-term animal findings suggest negative impacts on multiple organs. Here are some shocking facts about GMOs you may not know.

1. GMO Regulations are Abysmally Inadequate

Since 1990 when genetically-engineered food crops began flooding the market, field testing across the United States has reached a frightening, almost incomprehensible scale. The USDA loosely enforces non-stringent rules for biotech companies engaged in test planting. Thousands of known safety breaches over the decades have ensued, with generally nothing more than a warning or small fine imposed on offenders.

Most testing is done with no oversight and in secret, as evidenced by investigative reporting. Perhaps the most shocking fact is that there are only 130 GMO safety inspectors for all 50 states, or barely 2 inspectors per state! How can only two people monitor an entire state for GMO safety? The answer: they can't. ^[1]

2. GMO Producers Own the Government

Monsanto is a multinational corporation, massive enough to make sure government regulations fall in their favor. This isn't a gray area; this is a hard fact. Ukraine and Eastern Europe, laden with rich black topsoil Big Agri is hungry for, may just be the jewel in the crown of Monsanto’s worldwide conquests.

Documents from Wikileaks discovered that the US state department was pushing for loans to the Ukraine so Monsanto could grab land and begin producing GMOs. Previously, laws banning GMOs have now been cracked thanks to strong US lobbying along with a massive $17 BILLION loan from the IMF World Bank in late 2013. ^[2]

A recent political tug-of-war victory in Kauai requiring more extensive disclosure and accountability from corporations proliferating GMO crops onto the market and land has now been struck down as unlawful by a duplicitous federal judge. ^[3] Could it be that this decision was influenced by top GMO organizations?

3. The Battle for GMO Labeling Has Gotten Ugly

As the public increasingly rallies to demand GMO labeling requirements nationwide, megalithic and deep-pocketed biotech corporations and their lobbies have been successfully buying off politicians and judges and are crushing dissent. Should citizens have the right to know if their food contains GMO or has been contaminated? Who decides? ^[4]

4. GMO Scientists Want to Mess With Your Coffee

For the first time in agricultural history, science has given way to completely unlocking (sequencing) the complex genome of the hallowed coffee plant. With this new found knowledge, researchers plan to genetically manipulate coffee varieties in various ways. The coffee plant may be altered to adjust caffeine content, adapt to climate change and pests’ debilitating effects. ^[5] The health, consumption safety, and viability of one of the worlds most cherished drinks hangs in the balance.

5. Could International GMO/Glyphosate Pushback Led By China Signal Game Change?

GMO experts and industry leaders representing a dozen nations met in Beijing recently to educate and strengthen alliances against nightmarish GMO/glyphosate pesticide policy trends. With China being the largest glyphosate producer and GMO soy importer in the world, this could signal an important turn of the tide. ^[6]

6. Monsanto Wants to Take Over India

Despite Indian Parliamentary rejection of GMO mainstay crops (such as rice) being sold or taking root in their country, more than a dozen influential MPs were receiving red carpet treatment and accommodation from Monsanto to influence GMO policy in India. Conflict of interest much?

7. Biotech Behemoths Want to Operate in Secrecy

Federal lobbying efforts and spending (bribery) explode last year as Coca Cola, General Mills, Monsanto, and hundreds of other corporations push federal lawmakers to supersede states rights in GMO labeling fight. Also, pro-GMO organizations have been working to influence universities and confuse public discourse along the way. ^[7]

8. US and Canada Use Deceptive Approaches to Invade GMO-Free EU

US and Canadian food and biotech corporations, with the support of their respective governments, attempt to subvert existing stringent rules in the European Union under the guise of the Transatlantic Trade Treaty (TIPP). If successful, this would shield these corporations from public scrutiny and transparency as well as limit, if not eliminate, public legal recourse.

One More Thought

The best, most effective way to avoid GMOs is to purchase organic. This isn't just limited to food, because even personal care products may contain genetically-modified ingredients. Purchasing organic also lets industry know how important the GMO issue is to consumers, and you are essentially voting with your pocketbook every time you buy organic products.

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

References:

Melissa Hogenboom. Genetically modified flies 'could save crops.' BBC News. Science & Environment.
Joyce Nelson. Ukraine opens up for Monsanto, land grabs and GMOs. The Ecologist. 11th September 2014.
Anita Hofschneider. Federal Judge Invalidates Kauai's Anti-GMO Law. Honolulu Civil Beat.
Marnie Eisenstadt. GMO or no? Should labels be required on food with genetically modified ingredients? Syracuse.
Rachel Feltman. Genetically modified coffee could be just around the corner. The Washington Post.
Christina Sarich. Experts Smash Untruths about Glyphosate, GMOs at Beijing Conference. Natural Society.
Ellen Frankman. GMO lobbying is a booming business as labeling laws increase. PRI.

The post 8 Shocking Facts About GMOs appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Organic.org

Holiday Prep Guide for Eco-Lovers: Festive and Green Home Decor

Posted: 17 Dec 2014 08:13 PM PST

Do you love the holidays, but also the environment? There are plenty of festive ways to incorporate your green lifestyle into your home for the holidays. The first thing to always keep in mind is to simplify. Making things simple reduces costs, stress, and waste, and also gives us the time to slow down and really connect with others, which is what the holiday season is really all about anyway. Deck the halls with these stylish and eco-friendly ideas!

Christmas Tree Alternatives

You don't have to go with a traditional tree to pack in the holiday cheer. For an easy to assemble/disassemble option, go with a recycled cardboard Christmas tree, such as this Moderno Christmas tree, this year. They're attractive right out of the box, but can also be decorated with paper, paint or crayons, and can be displayed in clusters for a unique look. Cardboard trees also cut down on storage space, and are made from strong, 100% recycled material that can be recycled later as well.

Not into the cardboard look? You could also try a potted, living trees, such as an edible one made out of rosemary. These fragrant trees allow you to decorate without killing trees and double as herb gardens to spice up your holiday meals!

Tree Decor

Use recycled ornaments, such as those passed down in the family, or use old light bulbs to create new decorations this year using these three creative ideas. Ideas abound for decorating old bulbs of all shapes and sizes. With a little paint and/or glitter coating the bulbs, your tree will really shine!

And remember that less is more! To cut down on your energy use (and bill), you can use tinsel instead of lights to maximize the shine. But if you're going to string lights around your tree and home this year, make sure they're LED lights, which come in a variety of styles and colors and use 90-95% less energy than old-fashioned incandescent bulbs and shine for 200,000 hours of use. While you're at it, set them on a timer, so they're only used when you need them. It's an efficient way to save money and the planet!

Homemade Wreaths

Not all wreaths require cutting branches off of trees, and Inhabitat's DIY wreath created from recycled fabric scraps is a great example of a more eco-friendly alternative. Follow their easy guide to get started on your own!

Pillows and Other Decor

There are plenty of ideas on Pinterest for home decor, which can be quite overwhelming! But we've focused on a couple simple options for your home that won't break the bank.

Create and toss these festive DIY throw pillows out of old sweaters on your sofa, chair or even in the bedroom for a quick holiday decor staple you can use for years.

For some table topper or bookshelf decor, try upcycling some wine bottles with metallic paint or create winter vases with some dollar store finds for a very cool look that will carry into the new year.

Set the Stage for Dining

Dress up your dining room for sit-down gatherings!

For a simple, yet stunning way to show off your holiday place settings, wrap each set with a wide, pretty ribbon. Save the ribbon for another party or to wrap presents later!

For a festive centerpiece display, use a cylindrical glass vase to display a tall pillar candle and holder surrounded by fruits and nuts, such as a colorful combination of walnuts, cranberries, and kumquats. For a vintage look, you can also create your own table runners and candle holders like these pretty candle holders by wrapping lace around Mason jars.

Besides the obvious use of menorahs that have been passed down for generations, buying or creating your own menorahs made out of reclaimed wood, metal, or glass is another stylish, eco-friendly look. Latkes taste so much better by the glow of the menorah, so light up your living space with these toxin-free, 100% beeswax, hand-dipped Hannukah candles.

During the busy holiday season we need some fast projects, and this DIY table runner requires only a great piece of fabric and some thread. But the best kind might be the "no-sew" variety, and HGTV has rounded up a few awesome table runner options that require zero sewing skills.

Hopefully, these ideas have sparked your imagination for even more eco-friendly possibilities for decorating your home this festive season.

[via Redesign Revolution]

5 Studies That Link Science Behind the Benefits of Organic

Posted: 17 Dec 2014 08:13 PM PST

Benefits to Public Health

A new study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health concluded that eating an organic diet can contribute to human well-being. The research was led by Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences-based Dr. Jan Johansson, who reviewed current research on the effect of organic agriculture and crops on public health.

Finding a clear health advantage of consuming organic, her team states that "both animal studies and in vitro studies clearly indicate the benefits of consumption of organically produced food instead of that conventionally produced."

The increased phenolic compounds and lower pesticide residues found in organic produce could partially account for these benefits, but the study also points out that the significant advantages of organic cannot be explained by these variables alone. Researchers suggest that synergistic effects between various constituents within organic food are likely to be part of the reason it's more beneficial to public health than conventional products.

Reduced Pesticide Exposure

A new study published in the journal Environmental Research found that eating an organic diet for a week can reduce a person's pesticide exposure. The research was led by Dr. Liza Oates, who examined pesticide metabolites in the urine of 13 individuals who consumed a diet of at least 80 percent organic over seven days, and conventional food for seven days.

Dr. Oates' team found that the total pesticide metabolite levels were reduced by as much as 96 percent by eating organic, with an average reduction of 50 percent. This study shows that eating an organic diet can reduce exposure to chemicals that have been associated with health risks. As stated by Dr. Oates, "Recent studies have raised concerns for the health effects of these chemicals even at relatively low levels."

It's nice to see a study showing that choosing organic can make a significant difference in your exposure levels.

Nutritional Benefits

A new study published in the British Journal of Nutrition shows conclusive evidence that organic crops, and the food made from them, are healthier than their conventional counterparts. In this study, researchers conducted a meta-analysis on 342 peer-reviewed publications looking at the health benefits of organic agriculture and found that organic crops have higher antioxidant levels, lower cadmium levels and less pesticide residues than non-organic crops. They found that organic crops had significantly higher levels of antioxidants that have been linked to decreases in chronic disease risks such as cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative diseases and certain cancers.

The study also found fewer pesticide residues and lower toxic metal levels in organic versus conventional food, and organic crops had on average 48 percent lower cadmium levels than conventional crops. Cadmium is a highly toxic metal that can cause kidney failure, bone softening and liver damage. It can accumulate in the body, so even at low levels chronic exposure is dangerous. The findings of this study strongly support the health benefits of organic food.

Neonicotinoid Pesticides Linked to Honeybee Die-Off

A new study published in the Bulletin of Insectology by Harvard researchers found further evidence of the link between neonicotinoid use and Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD), in which bees abandon their hives over the winter and eventually die.

This study was led by Professor Chensheng (Alex) Lu, an advisory board member for The Organic Center and associate professor of Environmental Exposure Biology at the Harvard School of Public Health. It supports his previous research, which found that 94 percent of hives exposed to low levels of the neonicotinoid imidacloprid died within 23 weeks of exposure. The new study added a second neonicotinoid called clothianidin to their observations. The researchers found that the same negative effects were associated with bee exposure to clothianidin as with imidacloprid. "We demonstrated again in this study that neonicotinoids are highly likely to be responsible for triggering CCD in honeybee hives that were healthy prior to the arrival of winter," said Dr. Lu.

Organically Managed Soils Could Reverse Effects of Climate Change

The Rodale Institute has done some amazing science supporting the benefits of organic agriculture, and its new report, entitled "Regenerative Organic Agriculture and Climate Change," maintains this high quality of investigation. The report takes an in-depth look at how farming systems affect greenhouse gas emission and illustrates the benefits that organic agriculture can have on climate change. Specifically, the publication focuses on the ability of soil to mitigate climate change when managed organically.

Findings include a decrease of annual greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent if management of all current cropland transitioned to regenerative organic agriculture. Transitioning global pasture would add to carbon sequestration by 71 percent. "We could sequester more than 100 percent of current annual CO2 emissions with a switch to widely available and inexpensive organic management practices," the report states.

[via newhope 360]