Best of Mother Earth

Why Food Matters

Karen Hanrahan — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 14:27:00 GMT

The topic for this months Green Moms Carnival is food matters hosted by our Alline Anderson of A Passion for Green Business.

Awesome choice for a topic by the way.

Please don't call me a geek, but I believe in the food guide pyramid. I also believe in three square meals a day. I believe in vegetables and fruits. I believe in whole grains, meat and dairy. I also believe in soy, seeds, legumes and eating raw. It's called variety and nature provides us with an abundance of it

I believe food is a gift of nature.

I believe in clean food. Simple food grown locally, without chemicals. I believe in the seasons. Eating seasonally

I marvel at where food comes from. Seeds planted and nourished. The sun, the sky, rain, winds and kumbaya. I know. Kooky.

Food. I believe in whole food goodness.

I also believe that my beliefs are hard to achieve on a daily basis for most people. Eating for health is idealistic, surreal perhaps and when one shops at the local grocery store ...eating what matters....healthy foods, is darn confusing and challenging.

By design, McDonald's hamburgers have not found there way to the food guide pyramid. Somehow folks eat this stuff daily. Starbucks, while intoxicating. Think about it.

I don't want to judge anyone's affection for certain food concoctions. I too have my weaknesses, my addictions and my challenges when it comes to food

I adore chocolate, cheese and certain fast foods, like french fries, which have this sick allure that I find myself drawn too. A road trip includes an iced soy decaf latte.

I feel the same about cherries, asparagus and breads with seeds in them. I adore spinach. I love parsley. Radishes just rock my world

Which might be healthier for us?

I feel the point is often missed

We eat food to fuel our cells. Period. Our cells, those minuscule amazing things that make us human, alive and well need nourishment. Daily. All day. Quality fuel. Quality cells.

This isn't rocket science.

If our cells could talk, they'd be screaming at us...HEY, they'd say...could you eat a little Vitamin C here?? I'm bombarded with environmental toxins from that good for you walk you just took.-- while your at it send a little zinc too, will ya???

I wish they taught the marvel of the human body in every day classrooms. Biochemistry food 101. The amazing thing we call our digestive system. Our immunity. The way we manufacture energy. The way we heal. I marvel and am in awe of our body human.

Don't you???

I wish more people just understood why food matters.

I also wish it was easier. These days if you want to eat healthier you have to choose carefully, you have to actually prepare meals and in our fast paced grab and go lifestyle...the support to cook and eat clean, three square and healthy just isn't there. Not when you are running six million errands or working as a single mom, or when somehow a burger is cheaper than a head of broccoli

Food Matters. Of course it does.

What you believe matters also.

What's important to you?

If your not eating well, then at least supplement your diet.

That high quality daily multi-vitamin will give that cell that Vitamin C and zinc it's screaming for !!

oh dear i lost the url for this beautiful radish pic
thank you someone, somewhere on flickr

Karen Hanrahan
Blog Author, expert on nutrition, green advocacy and musings about bits of life on the side.

Constipation and Travel

Karen Hanrahan — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 12:01:00 GMT

Keeping with this month's theme theme about The Urpy Burpies, Too Much Travel or Too Much BBQ Blues ----
Let's talk about constipation.

I know --- not your typical thing to chat about.

Specifically, lets talk about constipation while traveling.

If you put me in a car, train or plane for any length of time, have me drink strange water, or eat foods I normally don't eat. It's going to have an affect on my bowel.

Perhaps that happens to you too?

Why do we have a digestive system?   The reason we digest the way we do was stated best by a wonderful nutritionist from Toronto who said, "we have a digestive system simply to sort the good, the bad, and the ugly!"

I love that description!

She said:    the good goes to our blood stream, the bad goes to our liver and the ugly just has to go - thus the reason for the bowel movement. Many feel accomplished in moving their bowel once a day.  Doing at least that is still a good thing, however if you eat more than once we have to process or digest more than once - therefor eliminating the ugly more than once daily is actually very important. Just a detail. Something to strive for.

If you are constipated while traveling it's really no fun. Consider a natural laxative. I choose a signature product that has a wonderful traditional herb called Senna in it. Typically when one thinks of a laxative, it's usually paired with the thought of an emergency "gotta go" , this is not the case with what I use. This product promises and delivers nothing more than a gentle prompting.

In my natural medicine cabinet and or in my travel bag I keep a natural laxative on hand to help keep me "going " especially when I travel.

This safe herbal product is also part of a comprehensive detoxification program.

flickr image titled constipated cat - too funny

Karen Hanrahan ~ Wellness Educator/Nutritional Consultant/Blog Publisher
708.482.0678 ~ Websites: Nutrition, Weight Loss, and Green Clean

Motion Sickness and Peppermint-Ginger

Karen Hanrahan — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 11:53:00 GMT

Do you travel? Does the motion of the car, plane, boat or train leave you a little queezy?

Peppermint-Ginger, is a medicinal herbal alternative that helps indigestion, stomach aches, ulcers, heartburn, food poisoning, intestinal ailments, digestive disorders and motion sickness.

Historically peppermint and ginger are mentioned in the very first recorded texts of many early cultures.

Our high quality herbal product combines peppermint, a source of menthol, and ginger for their soothing properties, anise and fennel provide additional soothing support.

For those who use Dramamine, a drug for motion sickness, Peppermint-Ginger is a highly regarded and effective natural alternative without harming the liver or other side effects

Not all herbal medicines are created equal. My favorite company story has to do with tainted ginseng root ( an herb known for promoting energy and vitality) coming from china. Due to the floods that season the roots were rotting. They were being sprayed with Quintizine to prevent further rotting as they were being shipped overseas. My company tested raw ginseng product during pre-production and found that it was tainted. Over and over each batch was showing this chemical. This did not meet our companies standards of excellance. As a company they halted producing it's 3rd top selling herb until they could find clean raw materials. This took YEARS. Worst part - no other company stopped producing. During this extended time period anyone taking Ginsng supplements made by other companies were also ingesting this chemical. True story.

ocean liner flickr image credit

Karen Hanrahan ~ Wellness Educator/Nutritional Consultant/Blog Publisher
708.482.0678 ~ Websites: Nutrition, Weight Loss, and Green Clean

Candida and Probiotics

Karen Hanrahan — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 11:47:00 GMT

I was personally diagnosed with Candida 13 yrs ago. Yeast infections, reduced immune function and a very hyper sensitivity to fragrances had me feeling ill all the time.

I was first introduced to the concept of Candida, it's pervasiveness and how most medical professionals do not address this health concern at a local lecture given by pediatrician Linda P. Rodriguez, M.D. The symptoms and personal health history she described had me fit the profile of someone who had Candida. My recovery took 4 months. I made changes, I stuck with the rigor of the diet restrictions and I used my supplements as was suggested. I got well.

In those days high quality probiotics (acidopholus/bifidus aka friendly bacteria) was unheard of. Products were expensive, required refrigeration, were often outdated and mishandled. No one could guarantee live beneficial bacteria past manufacturing, as a matter fact only one company today can make that claim. Many confused supplemental probiotics with the benefical enzymes found in yogurt. Yogurt companies forgot to tell you that these friendly bacteria were destroyed by the acids of the stomach. Not much good if your restorative friendly bacteria source was from eating yogurt. The goal once a high quality probiotic is encapsulated is that the beneficial enzymes have to withstand any heat, light, air and the acid of the stomach. Additionally it also has to go to the right place in the colon. Once there it has to deliver the good stuff - the good guys. The much needed friendly bacteria can then multiply and conquer the bad guys.

Introducing the most profound pearl of probiotics on the planet. This pearl uses a patented triple encapsulated technology. Three layers of which protect and deliver acidopholus/bifidus to the colon Guarunteed.

Not only does Candida benefit from this product/pearl so do many digestive health disorders. I believe all health starts with the colon, if it's toxic, congested or loaded with Candida - this effects the rest of our health.

*If you have a history of:

Antibiotic usage , especially broad spectrum drugs

Birth control pills or steroids

Mood swings or irritability

Cravings for sweets, breads and alchohol

Problems in moldy areas or on muggy days

Sensitivity to perfumes, chemical odors, etc.

Being really bothered by tobacco smoke

Athletes foot, fungus infections of nails and skin

Repeated pregnancies

Are an infant with:

Diaper rash that is worse in the skin folds

Thrush or white patches on the inner cheeks of the mouth

A white coated tongue

Excessive genital touching

Frequent ear infections

Have children with:

Thickly – coated or patchy, white tongue

Red ring around anus or rectal area

Itchy genital area leading to frequent touching

A chronic hair or foot odor

Bloated abdomen and bowel complaints

Frequent infections particularly of the ears and tonsils

Muscle aches and weaknesses

Or are an adolescents or an adult with:

Frequent fatigue, lethargy and drowsiness

Frequent infections

Frequent feelings of "spaciness"

Poor memory

Inability to make decisions

Bloating, belching, or intestinal gas

Muscle aches and weakness

Recurrent skin problems

Pain and or swelling in joints

Depression

Abdominal pain

Loss of interest in sex

Endometriosis or infertility

Prostatis or impotance

Anxiety attacks or frequent crying

PMS

Mucus in stools

Rectal itching

Constipation and /or diarrhea

Excessive vaginal discharge or itching

Pelvic pain

Burning or white coated tongue

Rash or blisters in mouth

Dizziness/loss of balance /incoordination

Pain or tightness in your chest

Spots in front of your eyes

Blurred vision

You may have Candida.

Specific yeast reduction preparations, diet restrictions, supplement recommendations and tips on creating a non - toxic environment are available by appointment.

Please call 708.482.0678 to schedule a nutrition consultation.

floral clematis candida flickr image credit

Karen Hanrahan ~ Wellness Educator/Nutritional Consultant/Blog Publisher
708.482.0678 ~ Websites: Nutrition, Weight Loss, and Green Clean

What is Candida And How Do I Treat It?

Karen Hanrahan — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 11:56:00 GMT

Below is a very simple explanation of what Candida is, and how to treat it:

*Yeasts occur naturally on or in the skin, ears and nails and they flourish inmoist, mucous membrane areas such as mouth, intestines, genitals orrectum.

We all have microorganisms or "friendly bacteria" called lactobacilli in our intestines that live along with the yeast.

Theycoexist in harmony unless the natural balance is upset by eating toomuch of certain foods, or by taking drugs such as antibiotics,hormones, and steroids.

These drugs destroy the friendly bacteria allowing the yeast ( candida albicans ) to multiply.

Toxins excreted by an overgrowth of yeast travel through the blood stream to many sites in the body.

These toxins cause a variety of respiratory, digestive and emotional symptoms and weaken the immune system.

Many people with Candida also develop adverse reactions to a wide variety of foods, chemicals and scents.

Simple Steps to Correct Yeast Overgrowth:

Decrease the amount of yeast in the body by using antifungal preparations.

Stop feeding the existing yeast by limiting the foods and drugs that cause the yeast to multiply.

Rebuild the immune system through a nutritional supplement program.

Create a non – toxic environment in your home to decrease Candida related symptoms.

*Resourced from the Candida Brochure by 1997 Gemma Gorham, M.P.H

Funnel Cake Karma

Karen Hanrahan — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 11:32:00 GMT

This is a slice of life story that reminds me that moments between mother and child are fleeting, especially as they become teenagers.

She didn't have to tell me this story, but she did.

My daughter went with friends to the local fireworks. She was a little late and when she arrived she found that her pals had just devoured a funnel cake.
Mmmmmmmmm funnel cakes.

Funnel Cakes in my mind are the biggest yummiest rip off known to carnival mankind. Deep fried sweet dough dipped in more powdered sugar goodness. Totally delicious fat and sugar insanity. The price for this sick treasure was a whopping $5.

Excuse me?

My daughter had 2.65

Once you know my lovely daughter's determination you would have witnessed the gears inside her ingenious youthful mind trying to figure out ways "to mooch the money I need" to get herself one of those funnel cakes.
Somehow she does exactly that

Off she then goes on an adventure to buy one of these disgusting treats. Unfortunately she encounters the never ending funnel cake line. Obviously the facilitators of this fireworks extravaganza did not know how to meet the needs of this particular community re: funnel cakes.

My daughter made an executive ( hi I am a teenager) decision and cut in the front of the line, knowing this probably wasn't the best thing to do, she did it anyway - determined and all.

A grown woman approached her with a look of utter desperation and equal determination to get herself one of those greasy sugary things.
She negotiated with my daughter " If you buy me mine - I'll treat you to yours AND a lemonade!!"
My daughter told me it was Funnel Cake Karma.

Classic.

May the 4th of July Carnival Karma be with you.

funnel cake flickr image credit

Karen Hanrahan ~ Wellness Educator/Nutritional Consultant/Blog Publisher
708.482.0678 ~ Websites: Nutrition, Weight Loss, and Green Clean

Urpy Burpy,Too Many Barbeque's, Too Much Summer Travel Blues

Karen Hanrahan — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 07:54:00 GMT

Do you have the urpy burpy, too many barbecues or too much summer travel blues?

Your tummy ache solutions could include these medicinal herbs:

Acidopholus/ Bifidus: Travelers diarrhea is more common than one might think – This particular brand guarantees half a BILLION live beneficial bacteria directly to the small intestine. A balance of healthy bacteria has been shown to boost the body’s natural defense capabilities.

(see detailed commentary below)

Peppermint/ Ginger: Perhaps you get an upset stomach from driving, flying or boating. Plan ahead for motion sickness. Using a blend of herbs including peppermint and ginger this product will ease motion sickness and it’s accompanying queasiness and nausea.

Senna: Constipated? The herb Senna, which has been used for thousands of years is a natural laxative. Senna and several other herbs provide a gentle and effective colon flush – it does not cause “emergency” trips to the bathroom – just a gentle encouragement of the muscles of the colon to get things moving again. This product is a “signature” formula for this particular company.

Plant based digestive Enzymes: Gassy? Bloated? Enzymes assist the digestion of all the foods you eat – many enzyme products are animal based – but this brand is a multi action plant based product – better digestion means better absorption of your food.

*Summer is upon us! Some of us will be taking trips to foreign lands, and some will be hanging out in the yard around the Bar-B-Q pit. All of us will be adapting to the hot weather and the stresses of summer. Summer heat is perfect for the growth of bacteria, and some of us may succumb to digestive distress after eating.

The human body is continually protecting itself from the outside world. To shield itself from harmful environmental stimuli, the body employs our immune cells, biochemicals, organs and tissues. The complex interaction of these physiological systems produces our immunity. Some of these systems have dual roles: The digestive system, for example, not only extracts and absorbs nutrients from foods but also destroys pathogenic organisms that may be present in those foods!

Acidopholus/ Bifudus is an important addition to our diet for support of our immune function. Lactobacillus and bifidobacteria species (probiotic organisms) have been shown to increase numbers of circulating lymphocytes, stimulate phagocytic activity of white blood cells, elevates antibody responses, and can increase production of immune-modulating chemicals such as gamma interferon. This particular probiotic product also contain the prebiotic fructooligosaccharides (FOS). FOS are carbohydrates that support the growth of probiotic organisms in the gastrointestinal tract. A recent study in Lancet showed that oligosaccharide molecules can bind to pathogenic microbes, thereby preventing their attachment to host cells. (1)

Probiotics secrete anti-toxins that can help reduce the impact of exposure to agents that usually cause "traveler's diarrhea". We tend to be resistant to the bacteria and viral agents that we have been exposed to in the past, once we have developed “antibodies” to them. Eating strange foods, or drinking water from strange places can introduce new bacterial strains that our immune system may not have processed previously. Using a Acidopholus/ Bifudus for a few months before taking that trip, to prepare our digestive tract for potential threats.

Over the last 10 years several investigative newspapers like the Washington Post and the LA Times have gone to “health food stores” and purchased cross-sections of popular supplements like Gingko Biloba, Ginseng, and St. John's Wort. They tested them in independent labs and found that many of those products contained impurities, reduced, or non-existent levels of the active ingredients listed on the labels. This finally forced the FDA to propose a new regulation to require current good manufacturing practices (CGMPs) in the supplement industry. The proposed rule would, for the first time, establish standards to ensure that dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are not adulterated with contaminants or impurities, and are labeled to accurately to reflect the active ingredients and other ingredients in the product. (2)

Evidence of the health benefits of lactobacillus and other probiotics – also known as “friendly bacteria” – is impressive. Many studies have investigated the role of various strains of bacteria in preventing and treating such illnesses as inflammatory bowel disease, urinary tract infections, diarrhea, and even colon cancer. Last year the American Journal of Gastroenterology published an entire supplemental issue dedicated to the use of probiotics in disease treatment. (3)

Perhaps the most important function of probiotic organisms is to limit the growth of pathogenic organisms. These potentially harmful microbes naturally reside in the human intestinal tract but do not overpopulate when sufficient numbers of probiotic organisms are present. Probiotic bacteria not only compete with these pathogens for nutrients and space, they also secrete substances--lactic acid and other organic acids, hydrogen peroxide, and potent antibiotic agents known as bacteriocins--that inhibit the growth of harmful organisms. Many studies demonstrate the ability of probiotics to antagonize pathogenic microbes and treat the intestinal infections caused by these harmful organisms. (4)

The statement "the best defense is a good offence" reminds me that taking Acidopholus/ Bifudus at this time of year is the most effective way to enjoy the summer without the risk of succumbing to food toxins.

REFERENCES:

(1) A Nutritional Approach to Immunity

(2) FDA Moves On Dietary Supplements

(2) Probiotics Effective Against Viral Infections

(3) A Probiotics Primer

*sourced from former newsletter

Flickr image credit - taken at the signapore zoo - too funny

Karen Hanrahan ~ Wellness Educator/Nutritional Consultant/Blog Publisher
708.482.0678 ~ Websites: Nutrition, Weight Loss, and Green Clean

Summer Fluffy White Cloud Days

Karen Hanrahan — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 07:47:00 GMT

One excellant barometer for an absolutely perfect summer day is the blueness of the sky and the fluffyness of the clouds.
When combined and viewed from an especially thick patch of grass laying flat on your back (that's what I did when I was little - did you? ) It is totally what summer daydreams are made of.
Remember that the clouds are there, at least in my opinion anyway, to foster all that is dreamy about our world.

Take a moment and ponder.

Flicker Image Credit - blueness and fluffyness superbly rated

Karen Hanrahan ~ Wellness Educator/Nutritional Consultant/Blog Publisher
708.482.0678 ~ Websites: Nutrition, Weight Loss, and Green Clean

Surgery Update

Karen Hanrahan — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 20:14:00 GMT

Spending my morning at Stroger today -- Thought you'd appreciate an update

Surgery January 2009 - Ulna Shortening - Second of Three Casts

Therapeutic - Putty Thumbs Up July 2009

Progress is incremental, methodical, sometimes painful and frustrating. I lack hand strength, and still swell alot. I think the swelling is what bugs me the most. My rehabilitation is self guided. Proudly I haven't missed a session. I'm determined to get full use of my hand.

Cherries

Karen Hanrahan — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 12:41:00 GMT

summer fruit taken by Karen

Do You Wear Sunscreen? Should You?

Karen Hanrahan — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 16:13:00 GMT

Do you wear sunscreen?

Protecting your skin is no longer an option.

Some compelling statistics:

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the US

Skin Cancers comprise more than 1/3 of all reported cancers

Melanoma is the second most common cancer of woman during their 20's

One blistering sunburn will quadruple your risk for getting skin cancer

Clothing, clouds and tree shade only block about 20% of UV rays

Low level UV sources halogen lamps, and flourescent fixtures, may increase skin cancer

UV rays are most concentrated between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.

References to these statistics and other compelling data re: Skin Health

The revolutionary product I recommend is designed for all skin types, including the most sensitive skin. It's patented, waterproof, oil-free formula smoothes easily into your skin and absorbs quickly, without leaving a sticky residue. Soothing and moisturizing, it does not irritate the skin. It has a special ingredient system that contains antioxidant vitamins and botanicals. The formula offers BOTH UVA and UVB protection and adds an extra defense against premature skin aging. This protection is not offered by all sunscreens.

Ask any dermatologist what the number one skin care essential is, and they'll say a quality sunscreen with a high level of sun protection. Nothing is more important to the quality and health of your skin.

A bit of information about SPF. The SPF provides a multiple for how much longer you can safely stay in the sun when wearing the product. If you have very fair skin and you would typically burn in 5 minutes, an SPF 30 would provide you with 150 minutes in the sun before burning. If you reapply at the end of the 150 minutes, you don't get another 150 minutes because your skin has already received as much sun as it can safely handle, and you should go indoors. (High SPF is really critical for this type of person, in particular, because if the same person had only used SPF 15, he/she would only have 75 safe minutes in the sun.)

At the other end of the spectrum, if you have darker skin and it would typically take 12 minutes for your unprotected skin to burn, an SPF 30 would provide 360 safe minutes in the sun (6 hours). For this person, reapplication IS important, because over the course of the 6 hours, some product will probably rub off/wear off due to sweating or swimming.

Be sure to add a sunscreento your every day skin care regime.

sunny sunflower flickr image credit

K a r e n H a n r a h a n
Wellness Educator/Nutritional Consultant

Websites:
Nutrition
Weight Loss

Summer Tips For Safe Fun In The Sun

Karen Hanrahan — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 15:34:00 GMT

Summer’s back—and so is fun in the sun! But before you hit the beach or stage a friendly water gun fight in your backyard, keep in mind that ultraviolet rays from the sun can do a number on your skin; in fact, they are the most common cause of premature aging. Here are some simple ways you can protect yourself—and your loved ones—and still have fun in the sun.

sourced from our field monthly products feature:

Reduce Sun Exposure During Peak Hours
UV rays are strongest and most dangerous between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so the less time you spend outdoors during these hours, the better. That doesn’t mean you have to ditch out on all the fun. For instance, instead of heading out to the pool at 2 p.m., wait a few hours and go at 5 p.m. The sun will still be up and there’ll be plenty of light out. And don’t be fooled on an overcast day—you can still get burned because up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can penetrate through the clouds. If you can, stay in the shade.

Cover Up
Be fashionably smart. Wear protective clothing that covers as much of your body as possible. Remember to cover your hair and head with a wide-brimmed hat. You might even consider carrying an umbrella for shade. The more protection you have the better off your skin will be.

Protect Your Eyes
Always wear sunglasses. Not only are they great for complementing your wardrobe, they also deflect harmful UV rays that reflect off of water, sand, and other surfaces. This helps reduce the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions. And, you won’t have to squint!

Apply Sunscreen Generously
Don’t be shy. Apply a liberal amount of sunscreen evenly on all areas of the skin—and don’t forget your lips, nose, ears, neck, hands, feet, and head (if necessary). Do so at least 20 minutes prior to sun exposure and remember to re-apply every two hours, especially after swimming.

Arm Yourself with Antioxidants!
What’s the big deal? Environmental assaults such as sunlight, pollution, stress, and even normal metabolism produce free radicals in our bodies, that can damage cells, alter DNA, and cause skin to age prematurely. Phytonutrients such as carotenoids and flavonoids—antioxidants found in fruits, vegetables, and plants—combat these free radicals and protect your body against cellular damage. So be sure to include lots of antioxidants in your diet. Your skin—and your overall health—will thank you.

Our Products Can Help You All Summer Long
In addition to providing broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, clinically proven sunscreens contains a triple-patented nutrient rich complex—a synergistic blend of seven targeted antioxidants that produces results much greater than the sum of each ingredient alone. In other words, it protects against premature older-looking skin.

sunhat flickr image credit

My Dryer Sheets Are Made From Vegetables.

Karen Hanrahan — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 15:29:00 GMT

Did you know that in the emergency room there is an actual term for the rash caused by typical dryer sheets known as "Bounce Blush"?

( this just horrifies me )

Natural Health Magazine featured a small blurb on dryer sheets it said:

"Conventional dryer sheets coat clothes with wax and perfumes and are very slow to break down once they're discarded."

Consider a 100% veggie-derived dryer sheet that is completely fragrance free, biodegradable, recyclable and effective.

Another hazard that many folks are not aware of is that the waxy build up from conventional dryer sheets leaves a residue on the lint screen that can actually cause fires!
When was the last time you cleaned your dryer's lint screen?

Check out these informative comments from our local home inspector.

Karen Hanrahan ~ Wellness Educator/Nutritional Consultant/Blog Author
708.482.0678 ~ Websites: Nutrition Weight Loss, and Green Clean

My Son's Bike

Karen Hanrahan — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 14:26:00 GMT

My son's bike has a reputation.

He's very serious about his bike as his method for getting place to place. Gotta love his commitment to it. Rain, snow,subzero temps you will see him - on his bike. If he has places to go - his bike is what gets him there.

He picked up a rusted to heck green ten speed Schwinn, for $60 at Working Bikes Co-op. Someone had converted it to an 8 speed. Already that's a tad odd. He switched it out to fixed gear, added an aerospoke so that he'd never have to true a wheel again. Recently the bike got a new seat.

The thing is a mutt.

photographs by karen

Father's Day Grilling Rubs And Marinades

Karen Hanrahan — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 14:07:00 GMT

Someone told me that if you take a portabello mushroom and marinate it for DAYS, that it's exceptional grilled. So I tried it, and sure enough. It was just superb.

I began experimenting with stovetop grilling and found that I liked that too!

An even better trick is to create salad-centric meals and apply the marinade concept to meats/veggies as a plan ahead mechanism for ease of preparing summer meals.

( like that word salad - centric ? It's a mother earth - ism )

Salad - centric meals means meals centered around lots of salad and raw veggies. When it's this hot it's the perfect thing. I make a plate of mixed greens, I usually include spinach, a bitter green of some sort; I am on an arugula kick right now and lots of raw veggies - I go for color, texture and variety. Fresh herbs are wonderful if you can clip them from your garden to add accordingly - dill, basil, chive, oregano, mint. parsley, cilantro - yum!

I purchased sirloin tip, cut into steaks at about 6.99 a lb, ( nice inexpensive cut - when marinated this meat is just astounding on the grill and perfect for steak salad.) I also bought boneless chicken breasts for a cobb salad, and marinated extra of both to freeze once grilled for added convenience. Lastly I thickly sliced some summer squash to marinate.

Why am I saying all of this?

Tonight I prepared 2 marinades, am soaking a bunch of stuff overnight to do a super duper grill off tomorrow so then I will have like 4 meals ready to rock. Or 2 meals to eat and 2 to freeze.

Great way to stay out of the kitchen and enjoy summer

Thai Marinade - I use this for the steak - it is applicable to anything really - it's my favorite - the hot pepper makes if very sassy

1 T fish sauce
juice of one fresh lime
1 T soy
1 T of water
fresh ground black pepper
1 serrano pepper sliced - today i used a red jalepeno
fresh cilantro
3 cloves crushed garlic

mix together, place meat or veggies in a shallow glass dish - never marinate in metal ( why is that ? someone told me that too )   pour over and cover

Citrus Marinade - I used this for the chicken and the summer squash

Juice of an orange
1 T white wine
1 T of soy
3 cloves crushed garlic
fresh ground white pepper
lots freshly grated ginger ( martha tip - keep fresh ginger bits in the freezer in a glass jar - grate when needed - fabulous way to have that fresh grated ginger taste all the time )

Mix together. Again place meat or veggies in shallow glass, pour marinade over and cover.

Spice Rub - I use this for chicken and turkey with the skin on

2 T of sweet paprika
1 teas of chile powder
1 teas of thyme

mix

oil fingers and rub on skin of the meat, rub in dry spices, add crushed garlic and peppers and rub, doing this the night before makes for great flavor - wash hands well, the pepper and chile powder in your eye is way not fun. Making a double batch of the dry spice part of this and keeping it in a jar is a great time saving tip also.

Happy Summer Grilling!

marinade flickr image credit

spicerub flickr image credit

Karen Hanrahan ~ Wellness Educator/Nutritional Consultant/Blog Publisher
708.482.0678 ~ Websites: Nutrition, Weight Loss, and Green Clean

Vitamin D - Marketing Science Versus Solid Science

Karen Hanrahan — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 14:06:00 GMT

Dr. Stephen Chaney, PhD is part of our illustrious field team.

His credentials include:

BS in Biophysics Duke PHD, Biochemistry UCLA

Prof Biochemistry & Biophysics in Dept of Nutrition,

UNC Chapel Hill teaches Med Students. Runs an active Cancer Research Program

Published 95 Peer reviewed studies ( found in Medical journals plus 2 reviews & 2 chapters of one of the leading biochemical textbooks used by medical students today. )

Teacher of year, Medical Alumni Distinguished Teacher Professorship

What I enjoy most about Dr Chaney is the way he explains things.

The information below is sourced from one of his emails - thank you Dr Chaney for the resource that you are to the field

It's really hard to know who to trust in the food supplement industry.

Everyone claims that their product is backed by solid science. But most companies rely on "borrowed science"or "marketing science" to back their product.

What do I mean by " borrowed science"?

Simply put they are citing references that show that an ingredient in their product has a desired effect. They aren't actually doing studies with their product

Why is that important?

In some cases the reports are simply wrong. There have been several times that our Scientific Advisory Board have recommended that our company do their own studies before marketing the product.

They did. Products didn't work, and they never marketed it. Examples include chromium picolinate and policosanol.

In each case studies showing that those ingredients didn't work were eventually published. In the meantime many other companies were making lots of money marketing products that didn't work.

We won't do that. We don't rely on borrowed science. We only market products that have been proven to be both safe and effective. That's part of our company difference.

So what do I mean by "marketing science"? By that I mean that when most companies actually do a clinical study with their products, they design the study solely with marketing in mind. They don't really care about the science. They just want to be able to make a marketing claim.

Again this is where our company stands head and shoulders above their competitors. We design our studies in such a way that they actually advance scientific knowledge.

The vitamin D study recently presented at the annual National Lipid Association meeting in Miami is a perfect example.

Several previous studies had suggested that vitamin D lowered the risk of heart disease, but nobody knew quite why.

Our scientists hypothesized that vitamin D might have a beneficial effect on HDL levels (which reduces the risk of heart disease) and metabolic syndrome (which increases the risk of heart disease). We worked with Dr. Kevin Maki of Provident Clinical Research in Glen Ellyn IL to test that hypothesis.

The Landmark Study, the first independent long term (20 year) study done by U Cal Berkeley, had already shown that people taking quality nutritional supplements on a regular basis generally had adequate levels of vitamin D in the blood.

Our company took blood samples from attendees at their 2008 New Orleans conference so that the study would have a large number of subjects with adequate vitamin D levels.

Dr. Maki then recruited a number of non- quality supplement users from local clinics so that the study would also contain a significant number of subjects with low levels of vitamin D in their blood.

The results were striking! HDL levels increased as the blood levels of vitamin D increased and markers of metabolic syndrome decreased as blood levels of vitamin D increased.

This study cannot be used for marketing purposes because a claim that our supplements increased HDL levels would be a health claim. However, this study did advance the science around vitamin D and heart disease risk. We now have a better understanding of how vitamin D reduces heart disease risk. This is what I call "real science" as opposed to "marketing science",

Dr. Maki said: "Results from population studies suggest that a low serum vitamin D concentration is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular mortality, but this is the first study to evaluate the relationship between vitamin D status and cardiovascular risk factors in a group that includes a large number of vitamin D supplement users."

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Top Ten Nutrients That Promote Heart Health For Men

Karen Hanrahan — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 13:59:00 GMT

Top Ten Nutrients that Promote Heart Health For Men
... plus a product for regulating cholesterol

Multi/Vitamin/Mineral Supplement Independent clinical research concludes the completeness and bioavailability of this multiple vitamin. Shortage of levels of basic nutrients will put blood lipids out of balance. Also available w/o Iron and a superb over age 50 formula Multi-for seniors

Soy Protein A complete, low fat, low calorie protein drink mix that stabilizes blood sugar, rebuild cells and hormones. Isoflavones are the special substances in soy that help lower cholesterol, reduce risk of cancer, help control PMS and menopausal symptoms and reduce the risk of kidney and gallstones. Our Soy Protein has been proven effective as reported in the Arteriosclerosis Journal of Medicine. The New England Journal of Medicine states 38 studies showing soy itself lowers cholesterol by 12 to 13% and 11.5% is LDL (bad) cholesterol.

Articles of interest and research re: soy and stroke

Acidophilus/Bifidus Friendly bacteria supports the growth of health microflora naturally found in the colon. Our product delivers a guaranteed 500 million live bifidus and acidophilus to the lower intestine. Acidopholus/ Bifidus lowers cholesterol in three ways:

1. Limits cholesterol production in the liver;

2. A healthy acid environment the probiodics converts cholesterol into a form the body cannot absorb;

3. Probiodics consume the cholesterol (like pac-man) and cholesterol is eliminated.

Fiber Our unique blend of four types of soluble fibers can significantly help you lower your blood cholesterol when combined with a low-fat diet. It is easy to add to your soy protein shake. Our Fiber has been clinically tested and proven at Stanford University School of Medicine. Two studies were reported in the American Journal of Cardiology that our Fiber lowered total cholesterol in just 4 weeks, by 15%; LDL (bad cholesterol) lowered by 22% and HDL (good cholesterol) stayed the same. For each 1% drop in total cholesterol you reduce your heart attack risk by 2%. This 15% decrease means that heart attack risk has been reduced by 30%. To get the amount of fiber in one serving of our Fiber, one would need to consume 20 slices of whole wheat bread or 6 apples or 3 ½ bowls of oatmeal. Get results with no side effects as found with medications.

Essential Fatty Acids Reduces 3 risk factors for heart disease: reduces clots in blood vessels; lowers triglycerides and raises HDL (good cholesterol). Omega-3 fatty acids like those in cold water fish and EPA, play a role in the formation of prostaglandins, which are hormone like substances which regulate blood clotting, inflammation and normalize blood pressure. EPA is nature’s Teflon because it makes arterial walls more slippery and red blood cells more flexible, thus improves blood flow. Easier blood flow means the heart doesn’t have to pump as hard to move blood. That translates to lower blood pressure. Lecithin may also be added to the program when dealing with stubborn high cholesterol levels, as it emulsifies fat.

Articles of interest and research re: EFA's and stroke

B Complex Why do people with low cholesterol levels have heart attacks? The natural by-products of metabolism called homocysteine are collecting in the arteries. High levels of homocysteines, as reported by the New England Journal of Medicine creates a 30 times greater chance of heart attack no matter what cholesterol levels are. B vitamins especially folic acid, B6, and B12 totally protect you from high homocysteine levels. 90% of Americans are deficient in B complex. Stress, sugar and processed foods rob the body of B vitamins.

The B Vitamin niacin is one of the oldest & most effective treatments for high cholesterol. However it is best taken as a B-complex to prevent "niacin flush". Niacin is also needed for proper circulation, healthy skin & nervous system, and the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, and in the production of hydrochloric acid for the digestive system.

Articles of interest and research re: B Complex

Vita-E Heart disease risk factors are reduced by 30 to 40% when taking 400IU of Vitamin E. This study was done with 87,000 nurses and 35,000 physicians. One would have to consume 4 pints of peanut butter a day to get 400IU of vitamin E. Our Vitamin E, selenium and grapeseed extract deliver potent antioxidant protection from free radical cell damage. By preventing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol and by protecting arterial walls, vitamin E is an important factor in promoting hearth health and in maintaining a normal cardiovascular system. Confused about News about Vitamin E ? Click here

Articles of interest and research re: Vitamin E

Our Calcium product Studies show that calcium and magnesium help balance the delicate ratio of minerals in our cells that affect blood pressure and the proper function of the heart. Cal-Mag also promotes the mineralizing of the skeleton system thus preventing osteoporosis.

Vita-C Tufts University reports higher vitamin C levels relates to higher HDL levels. Vitamin C enhances the oxygen supply to the blood stream. It also protects supports the collagen of the cell. Our Vita-C contains the entire vitamin C complex (bioflavonoids etc) and is gently released continuously over a 24 hour period.

Garlic In addition to lowering cholesterol, garlic has also been shown to lower elevated blood pressure, triglycerides and blood glucose in diabetics. It acts as a natural antibiotic, protects the liver from toxins, kills intestinal parasites and is used as a treatment for colic when breast-feeding.

CoQ10 At least 35 controlled clinical trials in Japan, Europe and the U.S. have demonstrated the benefit of CoQ10 therapy in congestive heart failure, angina and ischemic heart disease, and myocardial infarction. CoQ10 levels in heart tissue decline disproportionately with age. At age 20, the heart has a higher CoQ10 level than other major organs. At age 80 this is no longer true, with heart levels cut by more than half. CoQ10 pioneer Karl Folkers (1985), in agreement with earlier Japanese studies, found lower CoQ10 levels in patients with more severe heart disease and showed that CoQ10 supplements significantly raised blood and heart tissue levels of CoQ10 in these patients. Cholesterol medications deplete CoQ10.

Our Co-enzyme Q10 is up to 500% more bio-available than dry powder products, up to 333% more bio-available than soft gels

Articles of interest and research re: CoQ10

AND...

Our cholesterol regulating product is a unique blend of clinically proven ingredients that can help you retain normal cholesterol levels. This proprietary blend of natural ingredients inhibits the absorption of dietary cholesterol and increases HDL ("good") cholesterol. It does all this without interrupting production of coenzyme Q10, a nutrient important to heart health because it helps cells produce energy.

sourced from a former newsletter

Heart health research articles: nutrition and heart disease

medical protocol flickr image credit

^{karen hanrahan | wellness educator and consultant | writer}^nutrition ^~^{green clean}^~^{inch loss}^~^anti-aging

Green Moms Carnival Eco Confessions

Karen Hanrahan — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 14:06:00 GMT

Bless me Mother Earth for I have sinned, it's been absolutely ages since my last eco confession.

This post is for this month's Green Mom's Carnival. hosted by author Jenn Savedge at The Green Parent

These are just a few of my recent not so green ways:

My container garden with all my best grow my own food intention is overgrown with weeds. It doesn't help that it's rained and rained and rained. As I have done in the past I plant my seeds and then typically ignore. I should be ashamed of myself. This time I stupidly planted seeds and then completely forget to write down what I planted in each container. As things started to sprout I found I didn't know which was a weed and which was the plant, now it's even harder to tell. Is that parsley?? I'll have to wait a bit longer to find out. I have enjoyed two types of lettuces and spinach from starts, and I think the seeds I planted will produce more leafy edible greens if the weeds don't crowd them out. Part of me thinks if I weed, will I destroy half the garden by picking out the wrong thing?

Maybe I wasn't meant to be a gardener. Or maybe I should be more attentive and not take my garden for granted. Maybe when it isn't raining I should get out there and weed the darn thing

In preparation for my move....yes, I am moving!! ( more on that in a later post ) I have purchased the forbidden plastic bags, my favorite moving trick of the century, my last black plastic bag purchase was seven years ago. I have purchased oodles of tape and will use oodles of tape. I find I am absentmindedly leaving all my lights on, running all my fans and occasionally I have eaten take out food for convenience sake.

I could be making my own mayo, mustard, salad dressings, and yogurt...but as I look at the inside of the fridge I think about using things up. Not making more. The less food stuff I have to move - the better

I am decidedly purchasing food for snacking, grazing, quick cook and grab and go. It's not about being domestic queen right now. Yet the more I have on hand the less temptation there is to get something " to go"

In all my effort to get rid of, purge eco mindedly, I am finding my patience is absolutely nil, yesterday I put things to curb - plastic things, things that I know someone else might find of use and thankfully someone did pick them up. I felt bad however because if someone didn't find them useful and take them, then my garbage would have just been something else added to the landfill.

I have resourced a friend who is hosting a Craig's list sale for me. I could just kiss her for her help. She asked that I take pictures and I find myself completely overwhelmed. How did I accumulate so much? There is so much to sell. I'll be truthful -- It would be a heck of a lot easier to just pile the porch for Amvets to pick it all up instead. Give me the strength to strive forward please - couldn't it just be a tad easier to be green?

In the positive way to go green mama category, I am using packing boxes that I have had since 1985. I kid you not, I am packing in boxes that I have had for 24 years - I am also re-using packing newsprint. I have been blessed that where ever I move I have the storage to hold onto these items. Since 1985 I have moved eight times and those really great dish pack and wardrobe boxes have been rather handy!

Finally, this move has me putting on the car mileage. With money being incredibly tight and or flying out the window at the speed of light I have not yet planted trees to offset.

Once I have settled in --I will calculate the mileage and do some offset planting. I promise.

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Metobolic Syndrome

Karen Hanrahan — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:42:00 GMT

What You Need To Know About Metabolic Syndrome

Thank you to Dr. Jamie McManus MD, FAAFP for this informative health bulletin

You’ve been told you have high blood pressure and maybe your blood sugar is higher than it should be (but you don’t have diabetes yet). You are also carrying that “spare tire” around your waist. If so, you may actually have something called Metabolic Syndrome. Also known as Syndrome X or Insulin Resistance Syndrome, metabolic syndrome is a cluster of symptoms that together increase your risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. Having just one of these conditions – high blood pressure, central obesity, elevated cholesterol or blood sugar – contributes to your risk of these serious diseases. However, when present in combination your risk increases exponentially.

Research into the complex underlying process linking this group of conditions is ongoing and as the name suggests, metabolic syndrome is linked to the body’s metabolism and in particular to something called insulin resistance. Insulin resistance occurs when the body can’t use the hormone insulin efficiently. Insulin is made by the pancreas and is responsible for transporting glucose from the blood into cells of the body where it can be further utilized. Some people are genetically predisposed to insulin resistance but many people develop insulin resistance as a direct result of being overweight, like excess body fat (especially around the waist), and physical inactivity.

Not all experts agree on the exact definition of metabolic syndrome. But physicians have talked about this combination of risk factors for years and regardless of how it’s exactly defined, this collection of risk factors appears to be becoming more and more common. Risk factors for developing metabolic syndrome include: age (increased prevalence with age but it does occur in school aged children too); race – Hispanics and Blacks seem to be a greater risk than other races; obesity – a BMI of >25 and an apple vs. pear body shape; family history of type 2 diabetes or a history of diabetes during pregnancy. In addition, having other diseases such as hypertension or polycystic ovarian syndrome also contributes to an increased risk. Today, it is estimated that over 50 million Americans have metabolic syndrome.

The American Heart Association and National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute recommend that the Metabolic Syndrome be identified as the presence of three or more of these components:

1. Elevated waist circumference:
Men – equal or greater than 40 inches
Women – equal or greater than 35 inches

2. Elevated blood triglycerides:
Equal to or greater than 150 mg/dL

3. Reduced HDL (“good”) cholesterol:
Men – less than 40 mg/dL
Women – less than 50 mg/dL

4. Elevated blood pressure
Equal to or greater than 130/85 mm Hg

5. Elevated fasting glucose:
Equal to or greater than 100 mg/dL

If you know you have at least one of these risk factors you could have the others and just don’t know it, so it’s well worth checking in with your doctor and asking about whether or not you should be tested for other components of this syndrome.

Whether you have one or all of the five risk factors, diet, weight management and lifestyle are the place to start. Committing to a healthier diet, getting more physical activity, losing weight and if you smoke, quitting can help lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Smoking cigarettes increases insulin resistance and blood pressure and worsens the health consequences associated with Metabolic Syndrome. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about a smoking cessation program today.

Your diet should be balanced and rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein foods like fish and white meat chicken. It’s important to cut back on foods that are high in saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol. Avoid fast foods, sugar laden sodas and cut down the use of the salt shaker. To boost your physical activity level – find activities you really enjoy and set a goal to engage in moderate intensity activity, such as brisk walking, jogging, or swimming for 30 to 60 minutes a day, most days of the week. If you haven’t been very active recently, have physical limitations or a chronic health condition, talk to your doctor first about the right exercise program for you. Start slow and gradually increase the frequency and duration of your activity.

Do you have a lot of weight to lose? Don’t worry, even losing as little as 5 to 10% of your body weight can significantly improve how your body uses insulin (increases insulin sensitivity), can also lower your blood pressure, raise your HDL (“good”) cholesterol and decrease your risk of type 2 diabetes.

Supplements can provide additional value when dealing with Metabolic Syndrome. Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to healthier triglyceride and blood pressure levels. Magnesium supports healthy blood pressure too - and more than 80% of Americans may be deficient or consuming inadequate amounts. For weight management, soy protein based meal replacement shakes along with key nutrients such as chromium and green tea catechins should become a part of your daily life. And remember, as you make these lifestyle changes be sure to work with your doctor to monitor your weight, blood glucose, cholesterol and blood pressure levels to make sure your lifestyle changes are working.
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Why Take A High Quality Multi-Vitamin?

Karen Hanrahan — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 12:35:00 GMT

Once upon a time there was a food guide pyramid, in it's wisdom the guide said that if you eat like this every single day you will have all the nutrients you need to be healthy.

If.

In review:

You need 5-6 servings of 100% whole grains.

( how many folks do you know that eat this much bread or pasta, and that all of it is quality whole grain ? )

You need 5 veggies a day.

( celery, iceberg lettuce, mushrooms don't really count - variety is key, deeply rich in color and substantial vegetables preferred - yesterday I had red pepper, green beans, yellow squash, raw spinach, onions and garlic - organics provide nutrient density and veggies not tainted with chemicals - organic consumption is on the rise and something I am happy to spend my consumer dollars on )

How about you? Have you had your 5 lately?

3 fruits - every single day.

( Fruits tend to be easy to consume, but are you having 3 every single day? I had watermelon yesterday. OOPs I forgot the other 2 servings - whew - good thing I took my high quality multi-vitamin)

Dairy - 3 servings daily.

(This is so we get calcium. We are the most osteoporotic nation in the world - are we really getting enough calcium in our diet ? Through dairy consumption? I say we are not.)

Protein - meat, poultry, fish and legumes. 3 Servings.

(When was the last time you had legumes? We are a protein deficient nation. Protein ideally should be present at all 3 meals. Most of our protein sources are tainted with heavy metals, anti-biotics and growth hormones. 70% of the antibiotics sold in this country goes into animal feed. Stop eating, or don't eat enough in this category and you are missing a very important ingredient needed for cell rebuilding)

Folks just don't eat the above way each and every day. If they do, the main stream grocery foods they purchase are tainted, have traveled 3000 miles, have been picked way too early, gassed to ripeness, often they are from other countries and pesticide ridden, They are grown in nutrient depleted soil. Allergies have eliminated for some entire portions of the food guide pyramid.

What happens to your bones when you don't eat dairy anymore?

Health experts agree, according to JAMA, Journal of the American Medical Association, every adult should supplement their diet with a high quality multi-vitamin to assure and maintain good health. Research shows that intake of additional nutrients strengthens the immune system and promotes long term health

I call it daily nutritional insurance.

Our high quality multi-vitamin provides 23 essential vitamins and minerals at clinically proven levels.

Comprehensively it's the most perfect multi-vitamin on the planet. No more, no less.

Let's talk about the typical one a day. You know the one you might be taking now that you picked up at Costco, Target or Walgreens. Is it complete? Is it petroleum sourced? ( many are- especially the low cost ones - that means they are coal tar derived or are made from the same stuff that paves our streets ) Is it bio-available, meaning does it absorb into the blood stream or is it too compressed ? Most manufacturers push and press way too much into one pill, the one a day concept is for convenience - not for bio-availability, and certainly not for health.

The multi-vitamin product I advocate is a 2 a day deal, sourced from foods, manufactured with low heat, pressed just enough to tablet, available into the blood stream very efficiently. 2 a day. That nutritional insurance thing.

Our product has:

5 x more beta carotene
2 x more vita e
2 x more vita c
3 x more selenium
2 x more calcium
6 x more boron
2 x more magnesium
3 x more vita k
10 x more biotin

than any other brand.

The food guide pyramid below is for the native American Indian - it touts more grain - almost double, and shows pictures of deer and rabbit as protein sources, it adds a little cacti for good measure. I added it here because I think it's kindof cool, it also teaches where one might find added sugars and fats.

native food guide flickr image credit

There is a completely different food guide pyramid for the elder citizen, it's emphasis is on water - most seniors don't drink enough water, dehydration is huge - it insists also in adding B Complex and Vitamin E in the form of a nutritional supplement.

The food guide below is owned by Harvard Medical School, It acknowledges the need for essential fatty acids, it touts the importance of exercise, and weight control, and says to eat red meat, butter, refined grains and sugared drinks sparingly - This food guide pyramid recommends a high quality multi-vitamin,

I personally think adding alcohol in moderation confuses folks. Take your resveratrol instead.

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Are you taking a high quality multi-vitamin daily?

Based on the information above would you like to?

Please consider me as a resource for guidance and superior product recommendations.

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Karen Hanrahan ~ Wellness Educator/Nutritional Consultant/Blog Publisher
708.482.0678 ~ Websites: Nutrition, Weight Loss, and Green Clean