Yummy Vegetarian Delights

Make or Buy Healthy, Non-toxic, Green Shampoo

2012-01-21T15:37:00.000-05:00

Baking soda, http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sodium_bicarbonate.jpg

Say Goodbye To Toxic Ingredients in Hair Products

There are many ingredients in most shampoos that have very unwanted side effects. Read on to learn of the various safe and natural alternatives available.

Most people assume that the shampoos that they buy from the store are safe. Indeed, many people have used these very shampoos for years and years before uncovering troubling research and accusations about the ingredients listed in these products.
For instance, there is speculation as to sodium lauryl sulfate being carcinogenic. Phthalates are being linked to birth defects. Cancer and birth defects from a shampoo! Many other chemicals are in question and some are even being listed under different names. Baby shampoos are not immune to this madness. Clearly, one has to take charge of their own health and choose to make their own shampoo or choose a brand that is safe to use.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

Many people have been successful using baking soda and vinegar to clean their hair. To create your own mixture, add one tablespoon of baking soda to one cup warm water. Shake well. Wet hair and comb mixture through. Use about a tablespoon of vinegar in 2 cups of water for a finishing rinse.

Use Conditioner Only

Be sure it is a natural conditioner that contains no questionable ingredients. Just because something says natural or organic on the label does not mean any other dangerous ingredients are omitted. Read the label. Once you know you have a natural conditioner, simply use it in place of shampoo.

Using Sopanins

Many people have successfully made their own shampoo using plants or herbs that are sopanins. Sopanins are natural cleansers, and when they are mixed with water they become bubbly like soap.Yucca root is the most popular sopanin for making natural shampoo. In order to make Yucca root shampoo, simply make or blend the root into a pulp. Then, set out to air dry or dry in put in an oven on low temperature. Once the root is dried, store it in a cool, airy place. When ready to use, put in a cheesecloth bag and wet and rub on hair to cleanse.

Safe, Store Bought Choices

Many people have been successful in finding natural, non toxic shampoos at health food stores such as Trader Joe's or Whole Foods. Look for a shampoo that says non toxic and that features plant based materials. Many natural products now list what the ingredient is derived from in parenthesis beside each ingredient; this seems to be the safest choice as it proves the company is not attempting to hide an ingredient under a non- recognizable name.

Adjustment Period

Hair sometimes requires a few weeks to adjust to a new cleaning method. If you choose one that is not satisfactory after a few weeks, try another.
Sources

"Dangerous Cosmetic and Skin Care Ingredients Listing." Garden of Life Products Vitamin Code RAW and Oceans 3 with Fucothin. Primal Defense. Web. 27 Feb. 2010.
EWG Home | Environmental Working Group. Web. 27 Feb. 2010. .
"Healthy Hair Shampoo Is Easy to Find." Easy Green Living for Health and Wealth. Web. 27 Feb. 2010.
"How to Wash Your Hair Without Shampoo: 11 steps - wikiHow." WikiHow - The How-to Manual That You Can Edit. Web. 27 Feb. 2010.
"Natural Hair Care: How to Make Natural Shampoo from Yucca Root." Organic Gardening, Modern Homesteading, Renewable Energy, Green Homes, Do it Yourself – Mother Earth News. Web. 27 Feb. 2010.

God bless!

Read more about me here.

How to Make and Where to Buy Non-toxic Laundry Detergent

2012-01-21T14:38:00.000-05:00

Soapnuts, http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Waschnuesse.jpg

Many ingredients in most laundry detergents have very unwanted side effects. Read on to learn of the various safe and natural alternatives available.

There are many toxic and irritating ingredients in most commercial detergents. One is linear alkyl sodium sulfonate, which is a synthetic surfectant that releases carcinogenic and reproductive toxins into the environment during production. Another common ingredient is petroleum distillates, which has been linked to lung cancer, lung damage, lung inflammation, and damage to mucus membranes.
Then there is phenol, which can be very toxic in small doses and cause nervous system damage, depending on which type of phenol is used. The other type has been linked to cancer and feminization in male fish. There are many more equally toxic and disturbing additions to the usual laundry detergent. And, if these aren't bad enough, they typically leave a residue after washing which means these toxic chemicals rub against the skin all day and night.
Fortunately, there are alternatives. Just because most people are accustomed to picking up a pack of laundry detergent at the nearest superstore doesn't mean that is the only way. One can choose to create their own detergent, or buy a natural, non-toxic one..

Just What Is Detergent, Anyway? And What Does It Do?

Quite simply, a detergent lowers the surface tension of water. This makes water more likely to interact with dirt and grime, things it would naturally try to stay seperate from, thus aiding in the removal of dirt from soiled clothes. A number of things can accomplish this, including the petrochemicals derived from crude oil typically found in most laundry detergents. There are many alternatives to this.

Make a Gentle, Homemade Laundry Detergent

A simple, yet effective laundry detergent to make and use at home is to mix 2 cups of finely grated Ivory soap (or any other gentle soap), 1 cup of washing soda, and 1 cup of borax. Be sure to mix very well and store in an airtight plastic container.
Use about 1/4 cup of detergent per laundry load. A cup of vinegar added to the rinse cycle will brighten clothes and completely remove any detergent residue that remains.

Natural, Green, Non-toxic Laundry Detergent You Can Buy
Some people like the convenience of purchasing a detergent that is ready to use. Many companies have seen the need for this and have been quick to respond. Here are two notable, natural, ready to use detergents:

Soap Nuts

Soap nuts are a very popular and easy to use alternative to traditional detergent. These little wonders are actually dried berries that are sopanins. A sopanin is a plant that exhibits cleansing properties when interacting with water. Buysoapnuts.com offers soap nuts at a very affordable price; $22.00 for a supply that will last through 150-200 loads of laundry.

Magnets for Laundry

Lifenatural.com offers something they call Life Miracle, the Patented and Proven Laundry System. These are specialized magnets that are placed in the washing machine with laundry. The magnets lower the surface tension of the water, thus aiding in the removal of dirt from clothing. The company offers a 30 day free trial period, and a lifetime warrantly. They claim the magnets will never need replacing.
Sources

"10 Homemade Laundry Soap Detergent Recipes." TipNut.com. Web. 27 Feb. 2010. .
"Buy Soap Nuts, Tea Tree Oil, Scrub Pads, Eco Friendly Products, Towl." Soap Nuts Natural Laundry Detergent - Retail Wholesale and Bulk Supplier for Greener Living - Reviews and Testimonials. Web. 27 Feb. 2010.
"How Detergents Work - Chemistry of Surfactants." Chemistry - Periodic Table, Chemistry Projects, and Chemistry Homework Help. Web. 27 Feb. 2010.
"Laundry: detergent and laundry balls, laundry detergent and detergents, laundry mat or laundromat." Life Miracle Health Products | Wholesale Distributor | Liquid Vitamins | Laundry | Quit Smoking | Weight Loss Diet Pills. Web. 27 Feb. 2010.
"The Laundry." GroundWork. Web. 27 Feb. 2010.
"The Toxic Dangers of Typical Laundry Detergent." Healthy Family - Health and Wealth, Home Safety, Health, Relationship, Growing Family. Web. 27 Feb. 2010.

God bless!

Read more about me here.

Secrets of Long Life and Health from Okinawans

2012-01-21T12:20:00.000-05:00

Knowledge Gleaned from the Okinawan Elders' Way of Life

Who wouldn't like to live longer and healthier? Discovering the habits of the Okinawan elders can help others improve their own health.

An uncanny amount of confirmed centurians make their homes in Okinawa, Japan. A centurian is an individual who is 100 years old, or older. Even more stunning, they have more supercenturions, those aged 110 and older, than anywhere else in the world. As if this were not a feat in itself, they represent only .0002 percent of the world population.
These amazing elderly people have excellent health. They have little or no degenerative diseases that most of the industrialized world, and certainly the U.S., call a common part of aging. In fact, studies have shown that 95 percent of the centurions have no major disease before they reach their nineties. They typically fall ill and decline only during the last few years of life.
In a world where vital health in the latter years seems to be the exception rather than the rule for most of the population, what these elders have achieved seems like a rare, unattainable goal for the typical person. However, studies conducted concerning the Okinawan elders' way of life points to a conclusion quite the contrary. If one observes some key areas of the Okinawan elders' lives and seek to emulate them in these areas, increased health and vitality into the twilight years may become a reality.

Maintaining a Sense of Purpose Contributes to Longer Life

In the Okinawan culture, there is a great deal of respect for the elderly. They are viewed as useful people, not burdens. Great-great grandparents live in their own homes and tend their own gardens. As a matter of fact, there is no word for "retirement" in Okinawa. Thus, keeping active and stimulated, as well as being supported, thought of as useful, and genuinely cared for contributes to long life for the Okinawans. However, since Okinawa has become more Westernized, not all have had such good health and longevity. Certainly there are other factors that are contributing to the Okinawan elders' vibrance.

Clues that Reveal Okinawan Secret

So, just what is the Okinawan elders' secret? Perhaps a glimpse into their culture can provide some insight. There are several Okinawan proverbs. One says, "One who eats whole food will be strong and healthy." Another states, "Food should nourish life- this is the best medicine."
This train of thought is very different from that of the Western world. The industrialized world has advertisements from T.V., computer, and printed media bombarding the population with supersized quantities of unhealthy food which can be obtained at any local fast food restaurant, some which never close. As a result, there is the tendency to eat food that does not nourish the body. The Okinawans do things very differently.

Fewer Calories Lead to Longer Life

The Okinawans eat far fewer calories than the typical Westerner. A typical man in this area consumes about 1,900 calories a day whereas the average American man takes in around 2,650 calories a day. It seems the Okinawan elders truly believe that one should eat to live, and not live to eat.

Whole Foods Nourish the Body

Okinawan elders have eaten a diet of very little processed foods, refined sugar, corn syrup, preservatives, and many other chemicals that make their way into the typical American's food. Instead, they eat a diet rich in good carbohydrates such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. They typically eat what is fresh, in season, and locally grown. Many people in the West shy away from carbohydrates as a result of fad diets giving misinformation. The truth is that complex carbohydrates in their natural state are fuel for the body. They give much needed nutrition, and keep one feeling full longer.

Fat and Protein Choices That are Healing to the Body

The Okinawan elders eat a low fat diet. They typically do not use bottled oils and do not use refined foods such as margarine. The fat that their diet supplies comes from whole food sources such as seeds, nuts, and sometimes fish. The protein in their diets comes mostly from plant sources

Exercise Strengthens and Enables those in all Stages of Life

Finally, the Okinawan elders are far more active than the elderly in our culture. Since they do not even have a word for "retirement," they do not slow down. They remain independent and active. One may think that elderly people should take it easy, but research has found just the opposite. Elderly people, even those up into their 90s and in nursing homes, who have implemented weight lifting into their daily life become much stronger and some are even able to give up their canes.
Source:
Robbins, John. Healthy at 100. Random House, 2006. Print.

God bless!

Read more about me here.

No Toxic Chemical Residue w/ Carbon Dioxide Decaffeinated Coffee

2012-01-20T16:49:00.000-05:00

Share this page:

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Caf%C3%A9_grain_ag1.jpg

Your favorite decaf could very well have a toxic residue. That's right, the most common method used to decaffeinate coffee is not necessarily the best.

Not all decaffeination methods are equal. Three different methods are commonly used to decaffeinate coffee. It is to the advantage of the consumer to be aware of what they are and how they can affect health.

Methylene Chloride and Ethyl Acetate

Methylene Chloride was originally discovered by a scientist who was searching for a way to decaffeinate coffee because he thought his father's ill health was the result of his coffee drinking. After much research he found that the chemical Methylene Choride would extract coffee from coffee beans. However, in the 1980's speculation arose of Methylene Chloride being a carcinogen. Since that time, the FDA has set limits on how much residue of this chemical can be present on coffee after treatment. However, some people do not trust these guidelines and search for more natural decaffeination methods.
Ethyl Acetate can seem to an answer to this dilemma. Since this chemical structure is present in some fruits, many coffee companies may label their coffee as 'Naturally Decaffeinated'. However, due to cost this chemical is man made (replicated) for this purpose. Since ethyl acetate is more expensive than methylene chloride, it is usually only used in its place if the particular coffee is to marketed as 'natural'.

Decaffeinating Coffee with Carbon Dioxide

Coffee decaffeinated with CO2 is currently the rarest to find, but it is worth the search. With this method, the all natural carbon dioxide is used to bind with the caffeine, thus removing it from the coffee. The coffee is left so flavorful that some taste tests have proven that it is almost indistinguishable from regular caffeinated coffee!
This method leaves absolutely no chemical residue on the bean. Also, when CO2 is used, nothing is wasted. The carbon dioxide itself can be reused to decaffeinate other batches of coffee, and the caffeine that is extracted is sold to soft drink companies and drug companies.
The CO2 method is not currently a common practice in the industry because the method takes special equipment and skill. It is also more expensive to decaffeinate coffee this way, but many are willing to pay the higher price. For this reason, and because of the superior flavor, it is expected that this method will eventually become mainstream. For the time being, be sure that the label specifically states that it is decaffeinated with carbon dioxide (CO2).
Sources
JoyfulLivingServices.com, "Decaffeinated & Flavored Coffee - Good or Bad?", 9-29-10
TheFreeLibrary.com, "The ins and outs of CO2 decaffeination.", 9-29-10
QualityCoach.net, "NATURALLY DECAFFEINATED & DELICIOUS", 9-29-10
SweetMarias.com, "CO-2 Decaf Method", 9-29-10

God bless!

Read more about me here.

Getting Enough K2 On a Vegan Diet, AKA Activator X & The X Factor

2012-01-20T16:41:00.000-05:00


http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kiszona_kapusta.JPG

Many vegans may not realize they are deficient in this vitamin. Read on for simple tips on keeping your diet well rounded and getting adequate amounts!

Vitamin K2 is very important for clear arteries and healthy, strong bones and teeth. Often confused with K1 found in leafy greens, it is a different vitamin altogether. Vegans in particular are susceptible to deficiencies of this vitamin due to dietary restrictions. However, there are several things vegans can do to ensure they get adequate amounts of this important nutrient.

Getting Enough K1

Though K1 and K2 are different vitamins, the body does convert a small amount of K1 into K2. The amount that it converts is not sufficient for the body's needs, however. It is speculated that adequate amounts can't be converted because the K1 in food is bound up in a large amount of fiber.
To make sure they get enough K1 to convert into at least a small amount K2, vegans should eat plenty of green leafy vegetables such as lettuce, broccoli, and greens (turnip greens, collard greens, etc.) But, as stated earlier other measures will have to be taken to ensure there are adequate amounts of K2 in the body.

Support a Healthy Digestive System

Microflora in the digestive tract can actually manufacture K2. Microflora refers to the healthy bacteria that should be living in the gut. These bacteria are important for good overall health. Intestinal bacteria balances can be upset or wiped out by various circumstances(such as a course of antibiotics), so replenishing and maintaining them is a good idea.
One way to replenish the good bacteria would be to take a vegan probiotic supplement. Vegans can also choose specially made products that include probiotics, such as GoodBelly juice. Good intestinal bacteria can also be obtained by eating fermented foods, such as sauerkraut.

Natto, the Best Source of K2

Natto, a vegan food, is THE best source of K2. However, studies have shown that the type of K2 that it contains (MK-7) cannot perform all of the functions as the K2 that is obtained from foods such as pasture butter and cheese(MK-4).
Natto is a traditional Japanese food that is actually cooked soybeans fermented in friendly bacteria. Natto is very stringy, and has a thick cheese like consistency. Some have claimed the smell is not all that pleasant, but Westerners have made it more edible by mixing it with barbecue sauce.
Natto can be found at health food stores or Asian grocery stores. Care should be taken to make sure that it is organic if one does not want to consume genetically modified soybeans. If it can't be found locally, starter mix can be bought online so that people can make their own natto at home.

Supplementation

Finally, vegans can take vitamin K2 supplements if they want to make sure they are consuming adequate amounts of K2. A thorough online search will uncover many companies that sell vegan K2. Vegans should do their research and choose the safest option available.
Vegans do indeed have a bit of a challenge when it comes to getting enough K2. Getting enough of this important nutrient is a bit easier for vegetarians, as there are many vegetarian sources of K2. However, armed with knowledge and determination, vegans can make sure they get enough K2 as well.
Sources
NutraIngredients-USA, “Vitamin K1-rich diet linked to better heart health“, 10-13-10
Vegetarian.LoveToKnow.com, “Types of Probiotics”, 10-13-10
GoDairyFree.org, “GoodBelly Organic Probiotic Fruit Drinks (Vegan, Soy-Free, Wheat-Free) “, 10-13-10

God bless!

Read more about me here.

How and Why to Reduce Phytic Acid in Foods for Better Health

2012-01-20T16:04:00.000-05:00


http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Mj%C3%B8l.jpg

With so many meals coming in a package, and traditional ways of food preparation being lost, many aren't getting all of the nutrition they think they are.

Phytic acid is a substance that naturally occurs in many foods. And, while it is actually an antioxidant, there is a darker side to it. Phytic acid actually binds to minerals in the intestine and keeps the body from absorbing and using them. When you are expecting to get nutrition from the food you eat, that can be a pretty hard pill to swallow.

Foods High in Phytic Acid and How to Go About Eating Them

Phytic acid is higher in some foods than others. Grains, beans, and nuts, and soybeans are notoriously high in it. . Even corn contains phytic acid. Thankfully, there are ways to reduce the phytic acid in these foods. Doing so will make the nutrients in them more available. The most common measure that works for most foods is soaking. Here are some common foods high in phytic acid and the suggested soaking times for each:

almonds 4-12 hours
cashews 1-4 hours
flaxseeds 1-8 hours
pecans 2-4 hours
sunflower seeds 4-8 hours
walnuts 2-6 hours

Grains are a different story. Some like wheat and rye will have drastically reduced phytic acid levels after just two hours of soaking. Other types of grain require much longer soaking times to put a dent in the phytic acid levels. Putting something acidic, such as yogurt, lemon juice, or vinegar, in with the grain will help out with the elimination. Grains do not need to be rinsed after soaking. A shortcut to soaking would be to make sourdough bread. Sourdough does not require soaking. Starter for this type of bread can be made at home, or a starter mix can be bought from a store.
In beans, phytic acid can be reduced to an acceptable level by soaking in warm water for 18 hours. Change water and rinse thoroughly before cooking. This method will not work for soybeans, however. They are extremely high in phytic acid, and only fermentation works to reduce this in soybeans. Some soybean foods that are fermented and therefore most likely have safe levels of phytic acid are tempeh, miso, tamari, and soy sauce.
Reducing phytic acid in foods before consumption can indeed seem like a lot of work at first. However, like any other learned habit, it will likely become second nature after a while. The methods mentioned in this article have been used traditionally, and are backed by research. So do your body a favor and provide it with the minerals it needs to function.
Sources
Enlita.com, " Enhancing Digestion", 9-29-10
HealthBanquet.com, "Soaking Grains, Soaking Flour Optimizes Nutrition" , 9-29-10
CookusInterruptus.com, "Is soy good for you? bad? or indifferent?", 9-29-10
WHFoods.org, "What is phytic acid and can it interfere with the absorption of iron from plant-based foods?", 9-29-10
PhyticAcid.org, "Tips for Consumers from Food Science", 9-29-10
Healthy-Eating-Politics, "Phytic Acid: Healthy or Harmful?", 9-29-10
KitchenStewardship.com, 9-29-10

God bless!

Read more about me here.

Health benefits of kiwi

2012-01-20T15:50:00.000-05:00

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7a/Red_kiwi_fruit_slices.jpg

Affordable, delicious, and available year round. Learn why you should give kiwifruit a try!

The kiwi is a small green fruit nestled in a brown fuzzy skin. The center portion of the fruit is a different consistency of and is slightly sweeter than the outer portion. The small black seeds lend a slight crunch. A really good kiwi is at first slightly tangy, then sweet. It is truly a thing of beauty.
Kiwi fruit is available from the local grocery year round. California kiwis are harvested November through May, and New Zealand kiwi crops are available June through October. Kiwi fruit is quite affordable, and is available organically grown from some grocers.

Kiwifruit is a Powerhouse of Nutrition

When you eat a kiwi, you are getting a lot of nutrition in 46 little calories. One kiwi contains more vitamin C than an equal amount of orange. Other nutrients you will find in a kiwi are vitamin A, fiber, potassium, copper, magnesium, vitamin E, and manganese. And, kiwi seeds contain an omega 3 fatty acid.

Kiwi Health Benefits

Kiwis have been shown to benefit respiratory health. A study conducted in Italy on children confirmed that the more kiwis the children ate, the less likely the were to have respiratory related health problems such as coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath.
Kiwifruit offers us antioxidant and free radical protection, as well. Scientists believe that phytonutrients in kiwi are responsible for the DNA protecting properties it exhibits against oxygen damage. And the large amounts of antioxidants- including water soluble C and fat soluble E- protect our bodies from free radicals, obesity, cancer, heart disease, and more.
Also, kiwi is a very good source of fiber. Fiber is helpful for many things, including controlling blood sugar levels, reducing cholesterol, ushering toxins out of the system, preventing colon cancer, and reducing heart disease.

To Eat the Peel or Not to Eat the Peel

It is only really common among New Zealanders to eat the kiwi with the peel. But, by doing so, they enjoy extra nutrition- insoluble fiber, extra flavonoids and antioxidants.
However, the peels of fruits and vegetables can contain very high levels of pesticides- and not all will wash off- so unless you know for sure your kiwifruit is organic, you should probably peel it.

Kiwi Allergy

Anyone has the potential of being allergic to anything, and kiwifruit is no exception. Kiwis contain a protein dissolving enzyme called actinidin. Some people can be allergic to this. The most common allergic symptom to this substance is itching of the mouth, lips, and palate. However, symptoms can also become severe and may include wheezing or collapsing. To be sure that you do not have a kiwi allergy, try a small bit of kiwi when you eat it the first time.
Sources
WHFoods.org, “Kiwifruit”, 11-11-10
Kiwi-fruit.info, 11-11-10

God bless!

Read more about me here.

Dumpster Diving for Recreation, Profit, and Sustainable Living

2012-01-20T15:29:00.003-05:00

Photo byRomuald Bokej / Stockholm, Sweden

Going through other people's garbage: repulsive to some, inviting to others- intriguing to all!

Dumpster diving is the term that is used to describe the act of going through other people's garbage. It is not at all a new concept. Traditionally, people who were down and out were forced into dumpster diving. But more and more, dumpster diving is being taken up by people in all walks of life. The reason? Our society becoming a throw away one. These days so many people simply toss perfectly good items or put them on the curb when they no longer want or need them! That can mean free food and household items for anyone willing to intervene with the date with the trash truck. Or, one can make a profit by selling these goods!

Safety First: Tips for Dumpster Diving

Before dumpster diving, it is helpful to take a look around the area you are interested in. Make sure that the trash dump is not a compactor, as one can be crushed in a dumpster of this sort. And, be sure that they are no medical or toxic waste signs on or near the dumpster.
Also, it is a good idea to wear gloves when dumpster diving. This protects your hands from being cut or scraped and is also more sanitary. A head light will help to guide the way during this venture as well, as extra light is often needed to look into bags, trashcans, and dumpsters. And, if going in trash bins, a grabber can be quite handy to fetch items in hard to reach places.
Being that most dumpster diving takes place late at night, it is smart to go in groups. There is definitely safety in numbers. One can find dumpster diving buddies on Meetup.com, where there are currently 20 dumpster diving groups. Alternately, one can start a group of their own.

Dumpster Diving for Food

Many people go dumpster diving for food. Doing this either supplements their grocery bill or takes the place of it altogether. If one chooses to eat simply, creatively, and only what they find it is possible to eliminate the grocery bill altogether. Some have claimed to have done just that. Most, however, seem to use dumpster diving to supplement what they purchase.
Larger cities often put bags of trash on the sidewalk either every evening, or certain nights of the week. Dumpster divers then go through these bags of 'trash' before they are collected. Some finds from this type of dumpster diving are fresh fruit and vegetables, baked goods such as doughnuts and bagels, and packaged goods.
Stores in smaller cities often dispose of their waste exclusively in dumpsters, often behind the establishment. These dumpsters are usually dumped about once a week, however it is a good idea to learn which day or days of the week food is thrown away in order to collect the food when it is freshest. Anything the particular store sales is likely to end up in the dumpster at some time or another, as all food that is not sold is thrown out either at or shortly before the expiration date. And, items that are not sold and not returned to the manufacturer end up in the dumpster as well, such as books and magazines- albeit with covers removed.

Dumpster Diving for Fun and Profit

Some people just love to go out there and see what they can find to use for their own household. Many people have had success finding usable items in residential dumpsters, especially in apartment complexes. What one can find is seemingly limitless- appliances, computers, clothes, dishes, baskets, etc.

Furniture can often be found on the side of the road awaiting trash pickup. Acquiring items in this way is often called Curb Shopping. Many people simply put these larger items that they no longer want to side of the road for the sake of convenience. In instances like this, one persons trash is often another's treasure.

Some people take trash collecting a step further. They keep an eye out for items in good condition that they do not particularly want, but think others may be interested in. They then sell them at places such as flea markets, or online at websites such as Craigslist or eBay. This can be quite lucrative if one knows which items to be on the lookout for. Alternately, some use discarded items to create works of art.

There are several websites online devoted solely to dumpster diving. If this activity interests you and you would like to find out more about it, meet other people who do it, and see other people's finds you may interested in visiting http://dumpsterworld.com and http://trashwiki.org.

Sources

""Dumpster Diving" for Fun and Profit: A Source of Antique Treasures, Vintage Collectibles, and Items Waiting to Be Turned Into Art." TheLivingWeb.net:SuperPortal: Creative Ways to Live Frugally, Stay Healthy, Make Money, Keep Informed, and above All, Have Fun! Web. 04 May 2010.
"Dumpster Diving." Frugal Living by Sara Noel. Web. 05 May 2010.
"Dumpster Diving." Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. Web. 05 May 2010.
Willhite, By Nikki. "Dumpster Diving." How To Be Frugal: Tips for Saving Money and Frugal Living. Web. 05 May 2010.

God bless!

Read more about me here.

Buttery tasting vegan mashed potatoes recipe

2012-01-20T15:10:00.001-05:00

This is a really simple recipe, but one you may not know is a vegan option. I didn't try butter substitutes for a while, and I still use them sparingly. And while I've found that none are perfect by far, Earth Balance with olive oil seems to me to be the best choice. If only they would leave out the little bit of canola oil it would be a much better choice. But as it is, they do make for some really good mashed potatoes. This is how I made these yummy taters:

I peeled, cut up, and boiled organic potatoes (sometimes I use russet, sometimes red and if they have no eyes at all I usually leave at least some skin on.)
I boil about 20 minutes, until tender.
I put them on my plate, and mashed them up a bit with a fork.
Then in no particular order, I....
I added some Earth balance with olive oil buttery flavored spread.
I sprinkled on some salt.
I sprinkled on a lotta lotta chives. (fresh are better...)
I ate.

Yep, vegan mashed potatoes can be quite yummy. :)

God bless!

Read more about me here.

Cinnamon roll in a cup recipe

2012-01-20T14:52:00.004-05:00

Share this page:

I made this while trying some alternatives to mochas. We use EdenSoy milk from Eden Organics because they say they have a process that makes the milk more digestible, a patented process involving cooking and enzymes if I'm not mistaken. The taste is much better than other brands too, in my opinion. It lets the flavors shine through.

This is a very tasty drink, and I do think it tastes like a cinnamon roll in a cup. :) This recipe is not exact, you may need a little more of this or that to get the finished product that you want. On to these ingredients...

You will need:

16 oz. of soy milk (or your preference)
2 tablespoons of maple syrup
1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons of cinnamon powder
1/2 teaspoon of real vanilla flavoring (no fake stuff!:)
a few walnuts for the flavor and frothiness (optional)

Stick these ingredients in the blender and blend for a few minutes, then enjoy!

God bless!

Read more about me here.

Parma Review

2012-01-20T14:06:00.000-05:00

Share this page:

Recently, I have tried a product that I really really like- the chipotle cayenne Parma. It is made with raw walnuts, nutritional yeast, and spices. And it is good! :) I seem to have developed a taste for things slightly spicy, thanks to Whole Foods cafe food. :)

There are 2 other flavors- original and garlicy green. These products are dairy free, gluten free, soy free, and gmo free. Once I have confirmation that the products don't contain msg (it's not listed), I will be putting them on my grocery list! Of course you can make homemade vegan parmesan substitute that is probably just as good, but the convenience is certainly nice! :)

You can check them out at their website and see where to buy their products near you- I am assuming they would be at most Whole Foods. And they do have links to online stores where their products can be purchased.

God bless!

Read more about me here.

SodaStream Review

2012-01-13T18:17:00.000-05:00

Share this page:

I'm pretty sure that most people have heard of SodaStream by now. There are different models with different options, such as glass containers as opposed to plastic ones, etc. Today I am going to review the basic model, the Dynamo Deluxe, for you. :)

First of all, I want to say that I think this machine is a very good idea. It does indeed create much less waste than buying sodas. The bottles are durable, bpa free, and the company states that they can be used for up to 2 years. Also, the carbon dioxide canisters can be refilled and reused.

The folks at soda machine offer a vast array of flavorings to go into the carbonated water. My favorite flavor is Black Pear and Currant, which has many flavors in the ingredients, including Elderberry. This particular syrup does have sugar in it, but to me that is preferable to Splenda (which is in some of their syrups- be sure to read the labels). The bottle of Black Pear and Currant syrup makes 25 8 oz. cups of soda.

The machine itself is easy and fun to use. Simply fill container to water line, screw tightly into place (The top portion of the machine pivots in and out so you can point it out, screw the bottle on, and then push back into place.), and press the top button a few times to carbonate. The flavoring is added after carbonation. It's fun to watch, and my daughter and nieces had fun making sodas with it. :)

To be even healthier, you can carbonate water flavored with herbal tea, or water flavored with fruit juice. Stevia can be used a sweetener. I suggest trying Fruity Yummy Lemonaide Sweetened with Stevia in the soda stream.

Overall, I do recommend this product. Sodas can be a nice treat. It is fun and easy to use, and how neat to know exactly what goes into the soda you are making for you and your family. :)

Interested in owning one? SodaStream's website lists stores where they are sold.

God bless!

Read more about me here.

Chocolate coconut cream pie recipe (raw and vegan)

2012-01-11T16:13:00.002-05:00

Share this page:

This pie is DELISH. It does not require cooking, is dairy free, free of refined sugar, and healthy. I love the way the cream on top retains it coolness from being in the fridge, and the crust is just super yummy. Together they are a real hit! :) This recipe is adapted from the Raw Pecan Torte with Chocolate Ganache at Vegetarian Cooking Made Easy. She's got lots of good recipes, so bookmark Yummy Vegetarian Delights and go check her out. :) On to the yummy recipe...

For the crust you will need:
2 cups raw walnuts
5-7 pitted dates
1 cup shredded coconut (I used Let's Do Organic's dried coconut.)
@ 3 tsp cocoa powder (I usually use Trader Joe's)
@ 1/4 cup coconut oil (can add a little more if you need to for blending purposes)
1/2 tsp. himalayan salt (adds an important flavor element)

For the filling you will need:
2 cups raw cashews soaked overnight
@ 2 tsp. cocoa powder
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup maple syrup (or liquid sweetener of your choice)

I use the Ninja to blend the ingredients. First blend the crust ingredients and press into a pie pan. Then prepare your filling ingredients (in a clean appliance) and smooth over top of crust. If you want to serve right away, you may want to stick it in the freezer for about 15 minutes to get nice and chilled. Otherwise, keep in fridge, but it probably won't last long! :)

God bless!

Read more about me here.

Review of Shiloh Farms products

2012-01-04T02:38:00.000-05:00

Share this page:

I have tried many of the Shiloh Farm products.... sprouted wheat and spelt flour, adzuki beans, pretzels made from sprouted flour, etc. I give all of these products 2 thumbs up. The products are organic, high quality, and are available at a reasonable price from their website, Shilohfarms.com.

It can be easy to stock a whole food, organic pantry with the help of this company. They offer core products like flour, sweeteners (honey, date sugar, maple sugar, etc.), nuts, pasta, quinoa, etc. They also offer nice extras, like blueberry maple syrup, instant potatoes, fruit spread, cereal, and much more.

Every time I have visited the Shiloh Farms website, there have been items on sale. Their website also has recipes and information on healthy eating. The company has an interesting history, which they explain on their website.

In case you haven't noticed, I highly recommend Shiloh Farms. There aren't many places you can find organic, hard to find, high quality, affordable food items in place online, and when you do, I think you should support them. :)

I am so glad that you stopped by Yummy Vegetarian Delights! Feel free to explore the rest of the site, and please leave a comment below!! :)

God bless!

Read more about me here.

Vegan Sloppy Joe Recipe

2011-12-27T15:30:00.012-05:00

Share this page:

Most people like sloppy joes, and eating vegetarian or vegan doesn't have to stop you from enjoying a pretty good one! :) Today I made sloppy joes with tempeh, but if you prefer, the tempeh can be replaced with tofu or beans or whatever! For this recipe you will need:

Filling ingredients

3-4 cups of crumbled tempeh (or tofu, beans, etc.)
1 onion, diced
1 red pepper, diced
1 clove of garlic, diced
2 tsp. coconut oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp. curry powder
1 tsp. chives
1/2 tsp. chili powder

Sauce ingredients

1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 tsp. cinnamon powder
1 tsp. chili powder
1/4 tsp. onion powder
1 1/2 cups ketchup
1 tablespoon mustard
1 teaspoon molasses
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. chili powder
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1/2 tsp. liquid smoke

Today's sloppy joe filling ingredients:

Use the coconut oil to grease a frying pan or wok, then add all of the filling ingredients to pan. Cook on medium, stirring often, until veggies are done. This is what it looked like when it was done:

Now it's sauce time. Put the coconut oil in first, and add the spices to that. Stir well with a whisk. Then add the ketchup and mustard, and whisk again. Next add the white wine vinegar, liquid smoke, and molasses, and whisk. Take off of heat once it is heated through. Add sauce to filling mixture and allow to cook together on medium heat for around five minutes. Scoop on a bun, and enjoy! :)

I am so glad that you stopped by Yummy Vegetarian Delights! Feel free to explore the rest of the site, and please leave a comment below!! :)

God bless!

Read more about me here.

Review of NewTree Chocolate

2011-12-22T16:41:00.000-05:00

Share this page:


Screen shot from http://www.Newtree.com

When I received my Conscious Box in the mail a few weeks ago, there was a small mint dark chocolate bar tucked inside. It was a Newtree chocolate bar. And so that is how I discovered the tastiest chocolate I have ever had! :)

First of all, the taste is unbelievably good. From the moment you put it in your mouth, it is delish! I have since tried the flaxseed dark chocolate bar, and love that one as well.

The only place I have found that carries these bars locally is Walmart. Thankfully though, you can buy them on several websites, including http://www.NewTree.com.

Nutritionally, these bars are superior. They are low in sugar, though you can't tell by the taste. They are high in antioxidants, and the dark ones are vegan. Curious about just how good chocolate can be for you? Read all about the benefits.

I am so glad that you stopped by Yummy Vegetarian Delights! Feel free to explore the rest of the site, and please leave a comment below!! :)

God bless!

Read more about me here.

Mediterranean/ Greek style stewed okra and tomatoes (Yes, it's good!:)

2011-12-22T14:45:00.000-05:00

Share this page:

One of the reasons I appreciate eating out every now and then is that I often try things that I wouldn't necessarily consider making at home. But when I find something that I really like, I usually try to recreate it. :) I had this as a side dish at a Mediterranean restaurant. I love okra, and if you do too you'll probably enjoy this dish. :)

Makes about 4 servings.
You will need:
Please use organic ingredients if possible.

@ 5 cloves of garlic
4-5 cups of okra
1/2 onion, sliced
1 tomato, sliced
1 cup tomato sauce (I used spaghetti sauce), in glass jar to avoid bpa
1 cup water
1/2 cup olive oil
salt to taste
1 packet of NOW stevia

How to prepare:
(I used a glass pan with a lid.)

Pour olive oil into pan. Saute onions and garlic.
Add tomatoes and okra. Salt vegetables. Allow to cook for around 5 minutes, stirring regularly.
Add tomato sauce, and cook and stir for 5-10 minutes more.
Add water, turn temp. down and place lid on pan. Cook until vegetables are tender.
Add stevia and stir well just before serving.
Enjoy! :)

I am so glad that you stopped by Yummy Vegetarian Delights! Feel free to explore the rest of the site, and please leave a comment below!! :)

God bless!

Read more about me here.

Concious Box Review! :)

2011-12-10T20:14:00.001-05:00

Share this page:

When I checked my mail today, I was happy to see a Conscious Box had arrived! :) As you can see from the picture, it is full of lots of goodies. Conscious boxes are available from http://ConsciousBox.com. It works this way: you can sign up for one month ($19), 2 months ($54), or months ($104). These prices include shipping. The folks at Conscious Box send out boxes of eco friendly goodies to their subscribers each month. You will find non toxic products that you never knew existed. It is a really fun way to find out about different product options without leaving your home.

The amount and quality of products that I received was surely worth more than $19. The companies behind these products vary in size. The box was beautifully prepared. It had a picture on the front and had a very pretty purple theme this month, as you can see from the picture above.

Some of the items I received in my box were:

A 60 day toothbrush sanitizer.
Very tasty mango ginger chews.
A bit of vegan dark chocolate, peppermint flavor. Yum! :)
Laundry detergent sample, enough for 2 loads.
A yummy vegan (organic) pumpkin seed bar.
A sample of Eat Cleaner wipes.
A sample of lavender soap, and a lavender wax drop for a warmer.
Samples of lotions, an organic sucker, and almond butter.
And more!

I highly recommend Conscious Boxes. I am planning to give at least 2 for Christmas presents, and I may just get a subscription for my family in January. These are just fun! I love to discover non toxic products, and I think we should support these businesses!

I am so glad that you stopped by Yummy Vegetarian Delights! Feel free to explore the rest of the site, and please leave a comment below!! :)

God bless!
~ Angel

Read more about me here.

Shiitake soba stirfry recipe... yum!

2011-11-15T18:01:00.001-05:00

Share this page:

This is the second day in a row I have made this dish... it's just that good. It is very satisfying and very very nutritious. Eating mushrooms help you stay healthy.... they contain zinc, high amounts of vitamin d if exposed to UV or sunlight, and have antiviral, antibacterial, and anticancer properties.

Broccoli and onion also have anticancer properties. And buckwheat is good for your heart and is a good source of fiber.

Now you can feel good about eating this dish while you enjoy the delicious flavor! :)

This recipe makes 2 servings. Double as needed.

For this recipe you will need:

1 onion
1 cup shiitake mushroom
3 cups of broccoli
1-2 cups of soba noodles, prepared
soy sauce
toasted sesame oil
@ 1 teaspoon powdered ginger
@ half a teaspoon of garlic powder
any other oil... I used sunflower

Pour some sunflower oil in a frying pan or wok, just enough to coat the bottom. Add some toasted sesame oil for flavor.
Once pan and oil are heated, add sliced onion.
Now place a pot of water on stove for soba noodles (I used 100% buckwheat noodles).... add a little soy sauce and toasted sesame oil for flavor. Add noodles and allow to cook for about 8 minutes.
Add mushroom and broccoli to sauteeing onions. Sprinkle on ginger and garlic, and pour on soy sauce. Allow to cook until noodles are done.
Once soba noodles are done, drain and add to veggies.
Add more soy sauce or sprinkle on salt if desired.
Enjoy! :)

Nutritional info. obtained from these sources: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiitake, http://www.whfoods.com

I am so glad that you stopped by Yummy Vegetarian Delights! Feel free to explore the rest of the site, and please leave a comment below!! :)

God bless!
~ Angel

Read more about me here.

Yummy Meatless Crab Cake Recipe

2011-11-10T20:19:00.001-05:00

Share this page:

This recipe is delish! My Dad even said they tasted like crab cakes. :) I think this is a recipe most people will enjoy. And though I haven't frozen them yet, I think they will freeze well. For this recipe you will need:

15 oz. of firm or extra firm tofu
@ 5 teaspoons of mayonaise
2 slices of bread
1 tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning
desired amount of salt

You can either use a food processor, or your hands for this.

Mix or squish up the tofu and bread (first tear bread into pieces)
Stir in mayo, Old Bay seasoning, and salt.
Form into patties and place them in a casserole dish.
Bake at 350 for about 30 minutes.

The patties will have to cool down somewhat to become firm, due to the nature of hot tofu. :) Once they have cooled down a bit, ENJOY! :)

I am so glad that you stopped by Yummy Vegetarian Delights! Feel free to explore the rest of the site, and please leave a comment below!! :)

God bless!
~ Angel

Read more about me here.

Dairy free 'cheesy noodles' recipe

2011-10-29T23:59:00.000-04:00

Share this page:

These cheesy noodles are yummy. These aren't vegan, as I used egg noodles. However, if you would like to make this recipe vegan, I am sure you can find some other type of noodle to use that would complement the flavors well.

This recipe really is quite simple, but very tasty. You will need:

@ 3 cups of egg noodles
@ 1 tablespoon of Earth Balance with Olive Oil (in green container)
2 teaspoons of nutritional yeast

Prepare egg noodles, stir in the other two ingredients, salt, and enjoy! :)

I am so glad that you stopped by Yummy Vegetarian Delights! Feel free to explore the rest of the site, and please leave a comment below!! :)

God bless! ~ Angel

Read more about me here.

Monave Green Clay Facial Bar Review

2011-10-20T17:44:00.000-04:00

Share this page:

Monave's Green Clay Facial Bar gets 2 thumbs up from Yummy Vegetarian Delights! :) It is a really nice cleansing bar, has an earthy smell and feel, and works wonderfully! It cleans the skin deeply and leaves a healthy glow. This bar has 2 ingredients- how much simpler can you get? This is a product I highly recommend.

Ingredient list: Green Clay, litsea cubeba Essential Oil.

I am so glad that you stopped by Yummy Vegetarian Delights! Feel free to explore the rest of the site, and please leave a comment below!! :)

God bless! ~ Angel

Read more about me here.

Monave Honey Clay Cleanser Review

2011-10-20T17:29:00.001-04:00

Share this page:

http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2137503

I really enjoyed using Monave's honey clay cleanser. It does a very good job of cleaning, and left my skin with a glow. Mud and clay are really good for getting your skin thoroughly clean, healing breakouts and skin irritations, and for detoxing. This is one product that I do highly recommend, and it comes from a very reputable source.

Monave is a company that I trust. There you can find cosmetics and skin care that contain only truly natural ingredients. The products have not been tested on animals, and they are vegan with the exception of some items containing honey (such as this one).

The ingredients listed for this item are: Kaolin Clay, Honey, Glycerin, Purified Water, Algae Extract, Potassium Sorbate, and Essential Oils of Lavender and Rosewood. All natural! Check them out today! :)

I am so glad that you stopped by Yummy Vegetarian Delights! Feel free to explore the rest of the site, and please leave a comment below!! :)

God bless!
~ Angel

Read more about me here.

Vegan Asian Sesame Slaw

2011-10-20T03:16:00.000-04:00

Share this page:

Just looking at this dish is a sensory delight... and the flavor matches the festive look. This is not a complicated recipe... I put it together a couple of weeks ago as a result of trying to include brighter whole foods in my diet. The brighter they are- the more nutrients. I am also making an effort to eat more cruciferous vegetables, hence the cabbage. Cruciferous vegetables have lots of health benefits, including being very anti-cancer. Oh, and the raw sunflower seeds I simply love. They are high in vitamin E and selenium, as well as a good source of protein and good fat. (I get a lot of my nutrition info. at WHFoods.com, very informative website!)

To make this yummy dish, put an organic red cabbage and a few organic carrots into a blender or chopper (I used the Ninja). Pour into a bowl and stir in some Sweet Asian Sesame Dressing With a Hint of Ginger. Top with a handful of raw sunflower seeds, and enjoy this beautiful, healthy, nutritious dish! :)

I am so glad that you stopped by Yummy Vegetarian Delights! Feel free to explore the rest of the site, and please leave a comment below!! :)

God bless!
~ Angel

Read more about me here.

Sweet asian sesame dressing with a hint of ginger (Asian sesame dressing recipe)

2011-10-07T21:47:00.001-04:00

Share this page:

I put this with my recipe before I took a pic... sorry. One taste, though, and you'll know why! :)

I put this together after eating Asian Sesame dressing on a wrap at Chopped Greens. All you need to do is mix together the following:

Equal parts toasted sesame oil and soy sauce (REAL soy sauce!:)
Ginger and maple syrup to taste.

That's it! It's so good, and you'll know for sure what you're eating! Enjoy. :)

I am so glad that you stopped by Yummy Vegetarian Delights! Feel free to explore the rest of the site, and please leave a comment below!! :)

God bless!
~ Angel

Read more about me here.

Yummy Vegetarian Delights

Make or Buy Healthy, Non-toxic, Green Shampoo

Say Goodbye To Toxic Ingredients in Hair Products

There are many ingredients in most shampoos that have very unwanted side effects. Read on to learn of the various safe and natural alternatives available.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

Use Conditioner Only

Using Sopanins

Safe, Store Bought Choices

Adjustment Period

How to Make and Where to Buy Non-toxic Laundry Detergent

Many ingredients in most laundry detergents have very unwanted side effects. Read on to learn of the various safe and natural alternatives available.

Just What Is Detergent, Anyway? And What Does It Do?

Make a Gentle, Homemade Laundry Detergent

Soap Nuts

Magnets for Laundry

Secrets of Long Life and Health from Okinawans

Knowledge Gleaned from the Okinawan Elders' Way of Life

Who wouldn't like to live longer and healthier? Discovering the habits of the Okinawan elders can help others improve their own health.

Maintaining a Sense of Purpose Contributes to Longer Life

Clues that Reveal Okinawan Secret

Fewer Calories Lead to Longer Life

Whole Foods Nourish the Body

Fat and Protein Choices That are Healing to the Body

Exercise Strengthens and Enables those in all Stages of Life

No Toxic Chemical Residue w/ Carbon Dioxide Decaffeinated Coffee

Your favorite decaf could very well have a toxic residue. That's right, the most common method used to decaffeinate coffee is not necessarily the best.

Methylene Chloride and Ethyl Acetate

Decaffeinating Coffee with Carbon Dioxide

Getting Enough K2 On a Vegan Diet, AKA Activator X & The X Factor

Many vegans may not realize they are deficient in this vitamin. Read on for simple tips on keeping your diet well rounded and getting adequate amounts!

Getting Enough K1

Support a Healthy Digestive System

Natto, the Best Source of K2

Supplementation

How and Why to Reduce Phytic Acid in Foods for Better Health

With so many meals coming in a package, and traditional ways of food preparation being lost, many aren't getting all of the nutrition they think they are.

Foods High in Phytic Acid and How to Go About Eating Them

Health benefits of kiwi

Affordable, delicious, and available year round. Learn why you should give kiwifruit a try!

Kiwifruit is a Powerhouse of Nutrition

Kiwi Health Benefits

To Eat the Peel or Not to Eat the Peel

Kiwi Allergy

Dumpster Diving for Recreation, Profit, and Sustainable Living

Going through other people's garbage: repulsive to some, inviting to others- intriguing to all!

Safety First: Tips for Dumpster Diving

Dumpster Diving for Food

Dumpster Diving for Fun and Profit

Buttery tasting vegan mashed potatoes recipe

Cinnamon roll in a cup recipe

Parma Review

SodaStream Review

Chocolate coconut cream pie recipe (raw and vegan)

Review of Shiloh Farms products

Vegan Sloppy Joe Recipe

Review of NewTree Chocolate

Mediterranean/ Greek style stewed okra and tomatoes (Yes, it's good!:)

Concious Box Review! :)

Shiitake soba stirfry recipe... yum!

Yummy Meatless Crab Cake Recipe

Dairy free 'cheesy noodles' recipe

Monave Green Clay Facial Bar Review

Monave Honey Clay Cleanser Review

Vegan Asian Sesame Slaw

Sweet asian sesame dressing with a hint of ginger (Asian sesame dressing recipe)

Dumpster Diving for Fun and Profit