~~~

o you realize that the only time in our lives when we like to get old is when we”re kids? If you”re less than 10 years old, you”re so excited about aging that you think in fractions.

“How old are you?” “I’m four and a half!” You”re never thirty-six and a half. You”re four and a half, going on five! That’s the key.

You get into your teens, now they can”t hold you back. You jump to the next number, or even a few ahead.

“How old are you?” “I’m gonna be 16!” You could be 13, but hey, you”re gonna be 16! And then the greatest day of your life… You become 21. Even the words sound like a ceremony. YOU BECOME 21. YESSSS!!!

But then you turn 30. Oooohh, what happened there? Makes you sound like bad milk! He TURNED; we had to throw him out. There”s no fun now, you”re Just a sour-dumpling. What’s wrong? What’s changed?

You BECOME 21, you TURN 30, then you”re PUSHING 40. Whoa! Put on the brakes, it”s all slipping away. Before you know it, you REACH 50 and your dreams are gone.

But wait!!! You MAKE it to 60. You didn”t think you would!

So you BECOME 21, TURN 30, PUSH 40, REACH 50 and MAKE it to 60.

You”ve built up so much speed that you HIT 70! After that it”s a day-by-day thing; you HIT Wednesday!

You get into your 80’s and every day is a complete cycle; you HIT lunch; you TURN 4:30; you REACH bedtime. And it doesn’t end there. Into the 90s, you start going backwards; “I Was JUST 92.”

Then a strange thing happens. If you make it over 100, you become a little kid again. “I’m 100 and a half!”

May you all make it to a healthy 100 and a half!

HOW TO STAY YOUNG

1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctors worry about them. That is why you pay “them.”

2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down.

3. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain idle. “An idle mind is the devil”s workshop.” And the devil”s name is Alzheimer’s.

4. Enjoy the simple things.

5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.

6. The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person, who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.

7. Surround yourself with what you love, whether it’s family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.

8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.

9. Don’t take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to the next county; to a foreign country but NOT to where the guilt is.

10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.

AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

~~~

Previously 2010

https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/guest-blog/myths-busted-clearing-up-the-misunderstandings-about-organic-farming/

UPDATED: March, 2013
(Oxidation and Rancidity Discussion)

hat blender should I buy?

We have 3 favorite blenders. We love the Oster because of the amazing price and it’s versatility. However, it doesn’t do all the things that the super powered Blendtec and Vitamix . So, is price the most important factor, or do you have specific needs?

The 3 Top Blenders ♥ Blendtec  Discounted + Free Shipping ♥ Vitamix  Buy Here Now ♥ Oster  Buy Here Now

3 Best Blenders – 3 Reviews and
Comparisons

Here are our three final contenders for Best Blenders of All Time for the general public. Click on the links for more info. We chose these three because of performance, customer loyalty, satisfaction, and reputation.

he Blendtec is an powerful, high quality blender fitted with a 3HP motor. It is extremely solid and very durable. You may have heard the very popular "meme" (a meme is a phrase that has become popular to the extent that it has become very widely known, almost like a brand.): "But – will it blend?" This popular phrase refers to the Blendtec blender, which, according to its inventor, can blend almost anything from iron bolts to the full Apple iPad tablet computer.

Blendtec’s Tom Dickson is invited to the introduction to the new iPad 2. But as great as it is, Tom shows Steve Jobs how the Blendtec Total Blender can handle even the greatest of inventions. (Besides the Blendtec, of course.) Here are 2 videos that compare the Blendtec with the Vitamix.

Here’s the funny video below. You don’t want to miss this. Also, at the end, there’s a very funny adlib call, from, guess who? : )

Will It Blend? (the iPad 2)

: ) The Blendtec has a 3 HP motor while the Vitamix has a 2 HP motor. This gives it a slight edge in the power department. However, the Blendtec has more dull style blades while the Vitamix has almost dangerously sharp blades. The dull style blade gives a "crushing" and "milling" action as well as a "cutting" action. One interesting experiment is to blend an entire avocado including the pit. If you try this experiment, you should end up with a very smooth, creamy concoction without any noticeable bits of shell. We don’t recommend eating the pit of the avocado. The Blendtec blades come with a lifetime warranty. The duller style blades are less damaging to brushes, spoons and utensils and also safer for fingers during cleaning or wiping. Many prefer the attractive and smooth digital controls of the Blendtec blender with automatic settings, including a usage counter.

POSITIVES AND BENEFITS
* Most powerful motor of all home use blenders * Extreme Durability – Built to Last – Tough Built * Smaller and Lighter * High Performance, Professional Grade * Easy to clean digital controls * Attractive and clear digital display * Automatic Settings for ease of use * Super strong BPA Free Container Jar * Single Piece Blade and Rotor Assembly * Dull, strong blade never needs sharpening * Dull, strong blade safer and easier to clean * Dull, strong blade doesn’t damage utensils * Single container can do both wet and dry contents * no need for second jar container * 7 year warranty, 3 year extended available * Lifetime warranty on blades and rotor assembly * The only blender able to blend almost "anything" * Factory sealed jar/blade assembly for cleanliness, safety & convenience

NEGATIVES
* Digital Display for those who prefer the old-fashioned switches and levers * Comes with 3 year original warranty, 4 year extended is extra * Noise level – mederately loud as are all power blenders * Higher Priced Click Here to See the Selection of Blendtec Blenders.

Favorite Models:
Blendtec WildSide Combo Blender: HP3A Total Blender – 3 Qt (96 oz w/4 – Comes with two containers large and larger, precision tuned 4 blade. Expensive.
Blendtec Total Blender: (less expensive) Blendtec Home TB-611-20 1,560-Watt Total Blender

ew professional model – the latest Vitamixes are likely the culmination of a number of customer wishes and desires. They boast an under-counter lower profile along with greater noise reduction. Are they still noisy? Yes, they are, but definitely quieter than previous versions. What’s most noisy of course is blending ice cubes, frozen or harder items. It still comes with a 64 ounce cannister despite being low profile (shorter) and is both wide and spacious. The newer blades work very efficiently despite the greater width. As for pricing and availability, we are pleased to note that Amazon has some good specials right now.

The Vitamix tops the charts with a whopping $500 – $650 price range. (See latest discounted prices here at Amazon.) However, it still comes with a sterling 7 year warranty and a Swedish built 2 peak hp motor powerful enough to blend a full container of the hardest vegetables and fruits seemingly within seconds. What we love about this blender is that is comes with a "tamper" or plunger. We’ve often bumped the blades with wooden or plastic spoons or spatulas. The tamper makes it easy to "tamp" down foods while blending. We also like manual controls rather than digital controls. But on the flip side, digital controls are very durable these days, and they are easier to wipe clean. The Blendtec also has an attractive blue digital display. With its newer and more quieter motor, blending can mere seconds, preserving nutrients which can be destroyed by the centrifugal energy field generated by the blades and swift circular motion. Of course the older model Vitamixes are also extremely fast and powerful. We like the fact that the Vitamix comes with a 7 year warranty. We’ve known and heard about several people who have had their Vitamix blender replaced within a week or two. If money were no object, the Vitamix model we would opt for is the we might opt for is the Vitamix Professional or Commercial Grade Blender with the extra containers. This is their premier package and comes with all the bells and whistles.

POSITIVES AND BENEFITS
* Most powerful motor of top two home use blenders * Easy Use Tamper to tamp down ingredients while blending * Extreme Durability – Built to Last – Tough Built, esp. older models * High Performance, Professional Grade * Manual switch and lever controls * Super strong BPA Free Container Jar * 3 year full warranty on container jar * Lifetime warranty on blades and rotor assembly * 7 year full warranty * Extremely popular * Now has low profile models with quieter motor (See here)

NEGATIVES
* Comes with Manual switches (but some may prefer manual over digital) * Noise level – mederately loud as are all power blenders * Separate jar, gasket, blades (Some may prefer this feature) * Requires two separate jars for wet and dry ingredients * Super sharp blade can be more difficult to clean * Newer models have had slightly more repair needs. * Higher priced

Some Favorite Vitamix Models
Vitamix 1710 Professional Series 500 Vitamix 1710 Professional Series 500 Variable-Speed Countertop Blender with 2+ HP Motor and 64-Ounce Jar
VitaMix Commercial Blender – Platinum

reat Pricing and Performance… The Oster. Why do we love this blender so much? In a nutshell: pricing and quality. It takes care of most normal blending chores very well. It’s rugged and durable. So, you get excellent quality AND great performance at a low price. Oster blenders were previously known as Osterizer blenders. There are many Osterizers still working after 35 years. Can you imagine that today? Do they still make blenders that durable? We’re not sure about that. But, Oster has kept up a great tradition with these low priced Osters.

Ancient Age…
We happen to have another Osterizer blender that’s approximately 38 years old. Can you believe it? You could call it a family heirloom. Here’s the amazing part: yes, this blender still works. It has not ever been repaired. Recently, we broke the glass jar. We discovered we could buy a replacement jar for $10 or so on Amazon. We ordered one, and ordered another Oster blender just in case this blender broke down. How could a blender that old last, we figured? Well, it HAS. It’s still working perfectly. How could we not deeply respect and honor a company that makes blenders that lasted almost 40 years? Can you imagine the quality of the rubber belts inside? Unbelievable. The other blender we carefully decided to purchase was the high performance 16 Speed Oster for approximately $45 – $49, including shipping. We couldn’t believe the low price. It had great testimonials and seemed to have all the features we needed. It crushes ice and even grinds sprouted grains to make Essene bread. You don’t have to buy a separate ice crushing blade.

POSITIVES AND BENEFITS
* High performance – makes juices and smoothies quickly and easily * Includes Ice feature and blades * Best Priced Highest Value per dollar * Large mouth convenient jar – easy to rinse clean without removing base * Durable, stable and strong * Even with ice, jar does not shake as with other lower priced blenders * Surprisingly powerful * Easy use buttons * Strong high quality glass container – easy to clean * Incredible value * All purpose, single jar usage, wet and dry * Blends sprouts, seeds, nuts * Versatile

NEGATIVES
* 16 speeds do not seem necessary * Harder to clean between buttons * Moderately loud, but not more so than any other blender Click HERE to see a selection of Oster Blenders.

Favorite Oster Blenders
Core 16-Speed Blender Oster 6812-001 Core 16-Speed Blender with Glass Jar – 42% Discounted
Classic Beehive Blender Oster 4093 Classic Beehive Blender, Chrome

GLASS VS. POLYCARBONATE
It was a hard choice to choose between glass and polycarbonate. Glass is heavier and more easily breakable. Polycarbonate is lighter and almost impervious to breakage. You could throw a polycarbonate jar across the room and it’s likely to stay in one piece. Of course it might crack or chip, but much less so than glass. Glass on the other hand is almost impervious to scratches, acids, deposits and staining. Our glass jar on our original Osterizer looked new with no scratches or imperfections. You can put both glass and polycarbonate in the dishwasher. The Blendtec tritan polycarbonate jar is lightweight, non-reactive, can withstand extreme temperature changes and comes with a 3 year warranty. The jar and blade is one assembly piece. The Vitamix polycarbonate jar is also very high quality. It comes with blade assembly unattached. The Oster comes with a glass jar. It’s very durable and also has a detachable blade assembly.

WARRANTY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE BLENDTEC AND VITAMIX

The Vitamix comes with a 7 year warranty on the container yet has a 3 year warranty on the blade and gaskets. Replacement parts are considered normal wear and tear and will run the same cost as replacing a container and assembly for the Blendtec. The Blendtec comes with a lifetime warranty on the blade assembly, a 7 year warranty on the base and container. You can purchase an additional 3 year warranty.

SUMMARY

(Note: See the updated notes on oxidation added below) If money is no object, we would buy both the Blendtec and the Vitamix, along with a nice hand crank blender and mini sized travel blender. Each comes with their own set of benefits. But for power and speed, the Blendtec has a 33% more powerful motor and the Vitamix has the very handy tamper. We have just been informed that there are also tampers for the Blendtec available. Of course, we would also buy the Oster just to hand out to friends, associates and family. : ) It’s pricing can’t be beat. The newest Vitamix uses actual switches rather than digital controls. We like that. We have found in the past that some digital controls can be slightly slippery (especially with wet hands), a bit ungainly, hard to press and slightly more complicated and less durable than basic hardware controllers such as knob and switch controls. However, the Blendtec display is easy and comfortable to use. It also has convenient auto settings. It is a strong toss up if you had to choose between the Blendtec and Vitamix. You really can’t go wrong with either of them. For the budget minded, the Oster may be the best deal of all. The Oster will make a smoothie including whole apples (including core and seeds), oranges, bananas and tough greens with stems in under 30 seconds. (We use approximately 3/4 to 1 cup of water and cut the apples and oranges into quarters. At a price less than 1/9th the other blenders, it’s a great, economical choice. Again, it also does ice and many grains without a hitch and runs smoothly and easily.

We genuinely love these 3 blenders and specifically chose them to promote with our affiliate links. Thanks for reading! : )

Oster | Blendtec | Vitamix

~~~

Updated Notes

It has been recommended that we add the KitchenAid blender to this comparison article. However, due to the number of comments and complaints regarding the durability of KitchenAid’s single piece jar and base unit, we have decided to add the KitchenAid blender at a later date when this issue seems resolved. We have had experience in the past with a $179 Waring professional blender’s one piece base and jar leakage and eventual breakage after approximately one year of use. 

NOTES ABOUT THE HARM OF OXIDATION AND BLENDING

A number of people are concerned with oxidation levels caused by various blenders. Is this oxidation, "harmful?" The oxidative levels are interesting. A few websites that we found compared the color of the blended ingredients to measure oxidation. Although it is true that coloration can indicate that oxidative processes have occurred, it is not a fully accurate factor as age, amount and type of ingredients used, the length of time blended and the type of metals, plastics and glass can all have a bearing with resultant color changes.

What Is Oxidation?

Oxidation is a chemical process that occurs when a substance is exposed to oxygen. Oxygen is a highly volatile and reactive element due to its unpaired electron configuration. Thus, it causes high susceptibility to free radical formation and interactivity. Such exposure can cause a number of reactions, including "burning," degradation, alteration of molecular structure and greater free radical formation. Released free radicals (electrons) can cause cellular and tissue damage. So, is many ways, oxidation can do some harm to foods that are blended, shredded, masticated, juiced, crushed or agitated and thus, exposed to air. The more oxygen that is introduced into a food being blended, the more oxidation will occur. Speed and surface exposure will contribute to more oxygen exposure. A high speed blender such as the Blendtec or Vitamix will naturally introduce a higher level of oxygen exposure into a blended food than a slower blender. Also, the more spray and dispersement, the more exposure. On the other hand, time is a factor. The longer the blending time, the more likely the exposure to oxidation. The faster blenders may take less time to achieve the smoothness desired. Another consideration is the size of the carafe. A larger carafe may also allow more surface exposure during blending, thus more oxidation. However, larger blades may reduce blending time. Do larger blades rotate at a slower speed? This is unlikely if the same blender base is used. When a liquid is blended in a smaller carafe at slower speeds, the air may not be drawn into the blade area as quickly as with higher speed, larger carafes. All in all, it’s quite a toss-up, dependent upon personal opinion and speculation. What does science say? So far, we have not come across neutral, non-brand associated scientific research that proves one blender superior to another.

Best Blending Practices

So, what is the solution for the "best" blending? We believe that the best way to blend is to use short bursts with the least amount of agitation possible. The less agitation, the less exposure to electro-magnetic forces, and the less oxidation is likely to occur. Both of these forces and interactions can cause the reduction of nutrient levels. It is interesting to note that juicing can cause even greater oxidation due to the fine breakdown of plant cell walls and constant exposure to air and thus, oxygen. Perhaps the most valuable research was provided by a physician who actually cured cancer and other diseases with raw plant juices and special diets. He noted that his greated results were with juices consumed immediately upon pressing with the Norwalk juicer and presser combination. He found that blenders in his day to be less efficacious. Today’s blenders are quick and powerful. A few seconds of blending can yield satisfactory results. Our summary regarding oxidation and blending is that most all blenders are quite similar offering only slight varying degrees of oxidative action. Likely the best trick is to blend as little as possible to preserve the greatest nutrient value.

Orig: 2.7.11 Curr: 03.13

efore we begin, an important note. If you have a juicer, any juicer, then that is a Best Raw Organic thing to do, right there. For juicing is invaluable for health, and most all juicers will help provide a fresh, raw, living, concentrated liquid food. Why is this important? These days, plants are often lacking or deficient in natural nutritive factors and trace elements that are so vital for optimal health. This is due to their being grown on depleted and chemically manufactured and replenished soils or hydroponics. It has been estimated that upwards of 90% of nutrients found in plants from previous generations are missing in those grown today. Juicing helps concentrate vital nutrients for increased ease of assimilation, nutrient bioavailability and uptake.

Here’s our family Greenlife (Greenstar) juicer, still looking new on the outside after 14 years.

f you are looking for a superlative juicer that uses highly efficient, cold, slow pressing for maximal living nutrient collection and density, then the Green Life, Green Star and Green Power juicer may be the one for you. This popular and highly respected juicing machine has been the gold standard for affordable, slow grinding, cold press, single step juice extraction systems. (Greenlife, Greenstar, Tribest)

THE BEST JUICERS – the Green Life or Green Star Juicer
By CiCi Ellienne

First… A Confession
I must confess… the best juicer in my humble opine is of course, the one we currently own and use. But understand that we are research hounds and pickier than a whole slew of coal miners. Therefore our choice was based more upon careful evaluation rather than just happenstance and preference. It was with great care and consideration that our family ultimately chose this particular juicer.

Raw Sprout Bread - Sprouts With a Bit of Carrot Pulp, Ground With Our Juicer, Warmed In Our Mini Toaster Oven

The Green Life, Also Known As the Green Star Juicer
Our juicer, the Green Life Dual or Twin Gear, also known as the Green Star Juicer, is over 14 years old and still going like a champ.

We’ve put it heavily through it’s paces having juiced or ground everything from grain grasses to whole grains to veggie mulch and nuts and seeds.

We grind the dough for Raw Essene Sprout Bread in this machine right after we make juices.

To do this, we simply remove the cap and filter and easily replace the front body. We leave the pulp in the machine which imparts a lovely sweet flavor to the bread.

If you like, just contact us for the recipe. : )

FACTS AND FIGURES – What We Love About This Juicer

This juicer has the following qualities:

1. Durability, sturdy, solid construction, built to last
2. Affordability
3. High Performance, professional grade operability
4. Cold Processing without any heat imparted to the juice
5. Fast and fairly easy to clean
6. Low rotational speed – important
7. Grinding or crushing rather than tearing
8. Absolutely no use of centrifugal force
9. Thorough break down of plant cell walls to release nutrients and juice
9. Manufactured by a very reputable company
10. Very dry pulp
11. Versatile – Can grind, crush, make sprout bread dough
12. Can juice wheat, barley grasses, etc.
13. Can easily crush sprouts of all kinds including legumes and seeds
14. Easily replaceable parts reasonable in cost
16. Relatively small footprint
17. Attractive
18. Extremely resilient surface – still looks new on the outside

This juicer has been in our family for over 15 years. We haven’t sent it in for repairs or needed any new parts. It works as well as it did when brand new.

Mug of Fresh, Leafy Green Juice With Fruit

OTHER BENEFITS OF THE GREENLIFE GREENSTAR
This juicer uses very special patented magnetic core technology in its stainless steel twin gears or grinders. This helps increase the uptake of vital nutrients from the pulp into the juice. This also helps maximize the extraction of vital nutritional factors.

The Greenlife has an easy twist adjustment for pulp dryness. You can set the juicer to expel an exceptionally dry pulp.

There are several screens for juice filtration. We use the coase screen for all our juices. This yields a rich, potent juice without pulp but with maximal nutritional density.

The Greenlife is extremely versatile. In some ways, it’s a food processor. It juices wheat grass faster and seemingly better than any other system, including the professional or commercial wheat grass juicers. The pulp emitted is dry to the touch.

We often make delicious Essene bread with sprouted grains. The taste is phenomenal.

This juicer does not get hot even after making gallons of juice.

The Greenlife is thorough. It does a far better job of extraction than the huge commercial centrifugal juicer at our local health food bar.

A Note About Foam: Because of high efficiency, there will be foam, especially when juicing large amounts of wheat grasses. But this is natural. In some ways, the foam can add body and richness when stirred into the juice. The foam is very nutritious and should be consumed quickly or frozen or refrigerated immediately to prevent excess oxidation.

We have found this juicer to be a workhorse, strong enough to last many years.

It’s a pleasant off white color with green insignias, fine to look at and easily complementary to any “decor.”

This juicer is on our counter as a permanent fixture as we make several quarts every few days putting the excess in the freezer. If anyone is particularly ill, we would make fresh juice several times a day. But, the freezing technique is very convenient and seems to serve us well.

Barley Grass Juice With Some Foam. We mix the foam into the juice which adds body and flavor. More a blessing than a downside. We find the foam to be delicious as well as nutritious.

DOWNSIDES OR NEGATIVES OF THIS JUICER
If you make larger quantities of juice, you may find that you need a scraper to clean the screen. We use a plastic spatula to scrap any pulp embedded in the screen. We then use a small bristle brush to rinse clean. We once had a perfect tool for this from Home Depot. Any gentle scraper made of wood or plastic would be fine.

Over time, some plastic came off of the inner housing. However, these breakages were cosmetic in nature, and the juicer continues to work like new.

The inner portions of the juicer have become slightly stained over the years. We do not mind this at all. This discoloration cannot be seen from the outside. We do not find it necessary to wash the juicer with soap. Instead, we merely rinse thorough with clean, warm water and let dry. This helps make clean up a breeze.

This juicer is so thorough that a small amount of foam will be created. We simply mix the foam into the juice. This adds body, flavor and richness to our juice.

Soft, squishy fruits such as oranges, peaches and strawberries may back up a bit. This is easily solved by using a tougher vegetable to help push the soft fruits through. We find using a little of the expelled pulp helps tremendously.

SUMMARY

The Green Life Green Star is an optimal juicer for those who want or require a very high quality slow processed low heat juice. In medical research, this type of juice, similar to the juice of the much higher priced Norwalk juicer that Dr. Gerson used, has seen tremendous healing results. Ref: Dr. Max Gerson’s Results of 50 Cancer Cases. It is evidently crucial for healing purposes in obtaining all those all important vital, active nutrients and enzymes and deriving all the maximal living nutrition that Dr. Gerson found so necessary. Of course, always consult with your medical professional for advice regarding any health issues.

All juicers perform an invaluable service, for all raw juices have been found to be much more beneficial than their heated, canned, processed counterparts. But if you’re looking for the best, then this juicer fits the bill.

We believe that this is the best juicer for the price, in its class.

Best Pricing and Availability of the Greenlife Greenstar and Other Juicers We Like
The original Green Star Green Life is currently being manufactured by Tribest in the United States. Tribest has all the original modes, formulas and rights to the technology and design. There are other companies that are manufacturing similar juicers, but Tribest is the only genuine supplier of this particular juicer.

Amazon has excellent pricing and availability of this particular juicer.

Do you use this juicer? Do you have another particular favorite? Please let us know and we may publish your opinion.

Our Amazon page has an excellent selection of Green Star Models including the newer Elite and Green Star GP-E1503 Green Power Gold Juicer. If we were going to purchase another juicer, we would definitely consider getting these models. Please be sure to click on our links below to give us credit if you decide to buy. : )

HANDY LINKS: MORE MODELS AND PRICING HERE | GREEN STAR JUICER | TRIBEST JUICER MODELS | GREENLIFE

~~~

e ourselves do not generally consume meat, but we acknowledge and respect the fact that many people do and will continue to do so. Therefore we wish to present the most beneficial and nutritional information as possible for all concerned.

~~~

Meat is one of the most popular foods around the world simply due to the facts that, currently, it is easy to get, easy to prepare and extremely tasty when prepared properly. But is meat THAT healthy and good for us? As they say, most things in moderation.

But today’s average meat may be doing more harm than good. Why is that? There are quite a few reasons. These have to do with the method or raising our food animals. All in all, there is a strong case for organically, “naturally grown” meat. We must always remember that meat is procured from living, breathing animals with feelings and sensibilities closer to our own than many wish to believe.

Additionally, the idea of eating flesh from animals that have lived an atrocious life, devoid of any of life’s kindnesses and pleasures may affect one’s conscience; if not immediately, perhaps later in life. It can be very regrettable when one realizes their complicity to cruelty to animals. As for the meat from abused, stressed animals, one may question it’s quality.

These days, meat seems to require charred cooking, heavy seasoning, salting and sweetening to be enjoyed. In the past, meat was of such quality that very little seasoning was required to enhance its already rich flavours.

The best meat comes from animals that are raised kindly and humanely with the young able to stay with their mothers for a lengthy period of time, and with access to fresh pastures, exercise, clean air and sunshine. When they are finally slaughtered, their deaths should be painless and completely without stress, not having to suffer thirst and hunger and a long, dreadful journey beforehand.

Raw Meat
We do not expect that most people will choose to eat RAW, meat. However, if they choose meat from animals that are organically, more humanely and naturally raised, the safety level could be quite higher than that from  chemically enhanced, GMO and byproduct fed, factory farmed animals.

This is partially due to the fact that organic meat contains a number of nutritional components over and above non organic raised meat.

Organic free range meat can contain the following:

* much higher levels of valuable omega 3 fatty acids
* much higher levels of CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid)
* higher levels of “essential” fatty acids
* much higher levels of Vitamin E
* much higher levels of Vitamin A
* much lower levels of harmful types of saturated fats
* much lower levels of hormone or chemical derivatives
* no hormones or hormone residues
* no antibiotic residues

Many of these components are more biogenically available at higher levels when unaltered or decreased by high heat.

A Tricky Proposition
The recommending of eating raw meat can be a tricky proposition. As we all know, pork has become infamous for parasitical infestation, chicken has almost become synonymous with salmonella contamination and beef and other meats have had a number of run ins with e-coli and “mad cow” recalls.

One is hardly to trust the consumption of raw meat. However, there are some facts to consider.

Is raw meat safe?
We cannot answer that question for you. However, organically and HUMANELY raised animals have a much lower likelihood of containing pathogenic and chemical contamination.

This is due to the much higher standards that organic ranchers and farmers generally adhere to. In addition, they take very special care with feed and living conditions. They are much more likely to raise their animals in a more natural, pleasant and healthful environment. It is safe to assume that the meat from content and well cared for animals will be of a higher quality than that from stressed, sick, miserable animals.

It is important to note that organic beef is generally pathogen free when unexposed to air. Therefore it behooves one to cook the outside of a piece of meat by dropping into scalding water or quickly heating all surfaces to kill any pathogens on the outside. Additionally, one should always carefully examine any meat for parasitical infestation. It is always advisable to err on the side of caution.

Is raw meat more nutritious?
Without a doubt, raw meat is indeed nutritious. Part of this is due to the lack of protein and nutrient malformation during the heating phase. In addition, enzymatic and proteolytic processes can aid in its digestion. Is it more nutritious than cooked meat? Most likely, yes. That said, most people will find that the idea of eating raw meat “hard to assimilate.”

General Discussion About the Meat Diet
Many people do not eat meat. Some do not for reasons of conscience. Others do not for nutritional and health repercussions. For whatever your reasons, there are pros and cons to eating meat.

~~~

MORE ABOUT MEAT

Most People Today – Do They Need Meat?
What sort of person are you? Why body type and dietary type are you? These days people have co-mingled to such a degree that most have a “balanced” need for all types of food with subjective slight needs for one type over another.

Therefore, the average person can safely consume most all types of foods, meat being one of them.

However, that said, meat can be easily “over consumed” because of it’s  taste factor and addictive qualities.

The Addictive Qualities of Meat
No one can dispute that the just smell of hot barbecue can cause the mouth to water with delight. That is because broiled or fried seasoned animals fats give off very pleasing and enticing aromatic aromas and esters.

As one person said, “It is to their great misfortune that the fat and flesh of Mr. Pig, Chicken and Cow is so delicious.”

The very deliciousness of meat products lead to their over-consumption. In addition, salt and seasonings usually raise the delectability factor to an almost addictive range. These seasonings can create inordinate cravings.

Additionally, the average body craves the consumption of fats, sugars and salts. Fatty meat is highly addictive on its own, but when combined with sweet and salty seasonings, the addictive characteristics skyrocket.

People will then tend to over consume.

Are Certain Body Types More Prone To Needing Meat In Their Diet?
People have different constitutions. Some people can easily digest and assimilate meat seemingly with no adverse consequences while others are prone to suffer digestive upset or are more likely to develop gout, arthritic, heart, or other conditions.

Still others find they can consume large amounts of meat in their younger years yet are unable to continue such a diet as they get older.

Why is it that some can eat meat more easily than others?

It may have to do with genetic propensities. If one’s long line of ancestors primarily consumed meat, their healthy suriving progeny would most likely be able to do the same. A vegetarian type individual born into such a family might not tend to do as well.

On the other hand, a family lineage of those subsisting mostly on  vegetarian cuisine would likewise have progeny that did the best on a similar diet.

It is simply a matter of the best and easiest survival mechanism to successfully live of the diet you are given.

Meat and Health
That said, ever increasing evidence is showing that modern diseases are ever increasing due to the consumption of meat. Meat is not as vital as one might presuppose; we may need far less meat than we consume.

It has been shown that cultured and properly prepared legumes and vegetables offer premier nutrition. The difficulty lies in the improper consumption of such foodstuffs.

Some say that grains and legumes need not be consumed together. Others say that eating them simultaneously greatly enhances their synergistic actions.

We believe that providing all essential amino acids together, especially properly prepared, gives the digestive system the easiest access to extract the right balance of vital nutrients. As in all things, the easier something is to do, the more likely it is to get done.

SUMMARY

The best meats are probably those that are derived from humanely raised, organically fed and naturally pastured animals. In the past, such natural farm raised animals had flavors and delectability that today’s factory farmed meat is devoid of. There are those who remember that meat from the past required little seasoning such that it was so succulent and flavorful on its own.

Raw meat, properly prepared is most likely the best and healthiest method of consumption. Therefore a delicate Steak Tartare and even raw liver juices can offer incredible nutritive value. Will people commonly consum them? That remains to be seen.

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hat is the GLAD Diet?

The Glad Diet is an alternative method of eating to the S.A.D. Diet (The Standard American Diet). It incorporates fresh and living foods such as salads, fruits, vegetables, greens, cultured, sprouted nuts, seeds, legumes and grains. Either diet can be a mix of the two styles.

Is the GLAD Diet a Healthy Diet?
Most will say that it is indeed, a very healthy diet. Eating raw fruits and vegetables can be the most primal and natural way of eating, as cooking foods is a more recent invention.

Are Cooked Foods Nutritious?
Indeed, cooked foods offer a great deal of nutrition. But there are many who will testify that turning to a GLAD diet helped their health in ways that cooked methods of diet or treatment did not.

Who Invented the GLAD Acronym?
Why, the culprits would be us. We’re very much in support of a Living and Alive Diet – especially if it’s derived from organicially grown plants. We feel that eating foods in their most natural, raw, enzymatically active state offers premium nutrition.

Has Anyone Endorsed the GLAD Diet?
There are many doctors and nutritional experts who have endorsed and fully support a Living Food Diet. There are also a number of professionals who feel a standard American diet is totally adequate. However, more and more research is discovering that the natural diet as provided by Nature seems to be much more beneficial for health and well being.

Can You Mix the SAD and GLAD Diet?
Absolutely – the choice is yours. As one of our most favorite friends said, “I’m not a purist in anything.” That said, many people find that the more “GLAD” the diet, the more greater the health benefits.

Is the GLAD Diet safe?
There is little evidence to prove that eating foods in their natural, raw state s harmful. However, there are certain foods that should be minimally consumed avoided being eaten raw without processing of some sort. These include certain legumes, potatoes, sweet potatoes, olives,

What About Raw Meat?
Some feel that raw meat (Tartare) can be highly nutritious, even superior to cooked meats. It has been shown that certain types of roasting, barbecuing, frying and sauteing can create various cancer causing substances.

That said, raw meat needs to be carefully prepared. One of our methods is to “blanch” a piece of meat in boiling water (Submerge for a short period of time to minimize pathogens or organisms on the surface – meat unexposed to any air is usually sterile) and then slice as desired.

This is not recommended with turkey, pork and is generally not used with poultry. However, there are cultures that do use raw chicken. Generally, they are meticulous with cleanliness and purity.

Only the highest quality, organic, naturally fed and humanely pasture raised meat should be used. The healthier and happier the animals, the better for the consumer.

What Are the Best GLAD Foods?
We hope to cover that shortly. Meanwhile, there are a ton of resources available online. We recommend careful appraisal to see if the information is appropriate for you. Those who are successful for years are great examples to follow. A thing to remember: It’s always a little difficult to transition from one dietary regimen to another.

Questions? Just ask us!

Eat GLAD, Be GLAD! : )

Young Home Sprouted Barley Grass

ou can grow barley grass in almost the twinkling of an eye… : ) Growing barley grass is simple, lush… We use a little soil even though one can grow without. The naturally composted soil from my organic peelings contributes to thick, long growth. Here, the young barley grass forms dew at the tips. Barley grass has a wider blade than wheat…

We simply soak the seeds (with husks) overnight at least 12 hours or so. Then, we lay them on a layer of soil, cover with soil to provide darkness and prevent drying.

Soil is not necessary for the seeds to sprout. However, our composted and nourishing soil allows for a particularly verdant, rich, thick and luxurious deep green “thatch.”

We allow the blades to grow almost a foot, then juice them, freezing or refrigerating the excess. Believe it or not, we pour an ounce or two of this barley grass juice on our doggie’s dinner (she eats it all up). And we would swear that she’s much better for it.

We had noticed that she tried to eat certain fresh blades of lawn grass. Now that we provide the fresh, raw green barley juice, she no longer tries to nibble on the lawn. Perhaps there’s some vital nutrients her body craves, since we currently have her on a home cooked diet.

Barley juice is less sweet than wheat juices, but still very nutritious and energizing. We get 2 growths from our seeds, then we simply recompost. The spent seeds themselves are excellent soil amendments.

Orig Jan 27, 2011

THE MIGHTY MANGO. Here we have a delicious, fresh organic mango, one of the great examples of the treasures of organic raw food delectables. The non-organic varieties are still less likely to contain excess pesticides, chemicals and herbicides and is chock full of nutrients.

Related Articles
» BEST RAW DIET :: PART 2 :: 12 Important Points
» Important Notes About the Raw Food Diet – Concerns and Confusion

This is a very subjective question, for, the best raw food diet is the one that’s personally most suited to you.

Every person’s body metabolizes and reacts to foods differently. Some people may have allergies to certain vegetables, while others can’t seem to digest pithy fruits.

However, there are several best diets that seem to suit most people quite fine. This involves the following nice mix of locally grown fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, seeds simply prepared and served fresh.

We pattern our recommendations after the Gerson Diet as well as other successful organic raw food regimens that have been medically administered and seem to have the least adverse reactions.

The BEST Raw Diet? The one that works for you. Lists Below…

RECOMMENDED RAW ORGANIC FRUITS (Western Hemisphere)
Apples
Apricots
Peaches
Pears
Bananas
Grapes
Oranges
Lemons (Limited amounts due to high acid content)
Limes (Limited amounts due to high acid content)
Mangoes (Remove Skin)
Figs
Persimmons
Cherries
Dates
Guava
Passionfruit
Avocado (High fat content and somewhat reactionary)
Coconut (Limit amounts)

Fruits To Be Limited Or Avoided
Avocados (Limit – Very fatty and can cause some reactions)
Pineapple (Avoid – Highly Aromatic)
Any Genetically Modified Fruit

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RECOMMENDED RAW ORGANIC VEGETABLES
Dark Leafy Greens
Romaine Lettuce
GreenLeaf Lettuce
Endive
Arugula
Any Heirloom Varieties
Cabbage, Red and Green
Broccoli (Limited amounts)
Cauliflower
Kale
Collard Greens
Swiss Chards
Dandelion Greens
Nettles (Juiced or rolled)
Watercress (Limited amounts)
Parsley (Limited amounts)
Beet Greens
Beets (Limited amounts)
Carrots
Celery (Limited amounts)
Bokchoy
Spinach (Limited amounts)
Zucchini
Sweet Green, Red, Yellow, Orange Peppers
Yellow and Golden Squash
Corn (Limited amounts)
Asparagus (Limited amounts)
Leeks
Spring Onion
Sweet Potatoes (Limited amounts)
Potatoes (Limited Amounts)

Raw Vegetables To Be Limited Or Avoided
Cucumbers (Limit – high in sodium)
Yams (Not recommended to be eaten raw)

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RECOMMENDED RAW ORGANIC GRAINS SOAKED, SPROUTED
Kamut (specially monitored to remain pure to genotype)
Wheat
Barley
Rye
Oats
Triticale
Soaked Rice
Amaranth
Quinoa

Grains To Be Avoided
Buckwheat (Can contain slight smount of toxic substances)
Buckwheat Sprouts (Same as above)

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RECOMMENDED RAW ORGANIC BEANS, LEGUMES SOAKED, SPROUTED
(Very limited quantities when eaten raw)
Lentils
Beans (Soaked, sprouted only, very limited amounts)
Dried Peas (Soaked, sprouted only, very limited amounts)
Peas (Limited Amounts)
Soybeans (Organic only – Limited amounts – Fermented)

Legumes To Be Avoided
Fava Beans
Grass Beans

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RECOMMENDED RAW ORGANIC NUTS & SEEDS SOAKED, SPROUTED
(Limited quantities – Best if eaten fresh from the shell – Freshness is crucial)

Almonds
Macadamias (Fresh in shell)
Sunflower Seeds
Walnuts (Limited amounts – Fresh in shell)
Hazelnuts (Fresh in shell)
Filberts (Fresh in shell)
Flaxseed
Hempseed
Chia Seed
Mustard Seed (Limited Quantity)
Cabbage Seed
Broccoli Seed
Hemp Seed

Nuts and Seeds To Be Limited Or Avoided
Peanuts (Can be used in very limited amounts if absolutely fresh and organic)
Buckwheat (Limit – Can contain slight smount of toxic substances)
Buckwheat Sprouts (Limit – Same as above)

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There are a number of fresh raw foods that are locally grown and available around the world that work very well.

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Transitioning From The Standard American Diet (SAD)
Transitioning to an all raw diet can be quite difficult for the average person who grew up eating the typical, cooked-food diet.

Oftentimes, it takes exceptionally dedicated willpower to deliberately avoid unhealthy food and choose to eat what’s best for one’s body. It’s much easier to grab a tasty, convenient bite rather than prepare a wholesome raw meal. And, it’s also easy to dismiss any adverse effects that can occur due to eating cooked, fried, roasted food that seem to be quite fine for friends, family and associates. And, after all, if our predecessors ate such food, how could it be bad for us?

Symptoms such as excess weight, tiredness, skin eruptions, stomach problems, kidney or liver complaints, are easy to attribute to other causes rather than our diet. Therefore, switching to a healthy diet is usually predicated by inordinate suffering from extreme ill health, or a very serious need or desire to overcome obesity.

It is no secret that people generally turn to the raw diet when they have experienced serious or grievous illness. Traditional medical treatments may have offered little benefit or no solution at all. They may have heard about or seen remarkable results with others on the raw diet. Perhaps they were influenced by a compelling book, video, movie or website. Whatever the reason, switching to a raw diet will likely yield exceptional results, especially if done correctly. See our articles on how to properly switch to a raw diet.

All in all, people who have switched to a raw food diet discover not just full recovery, but a very special sense of energetic well-being that they never thought possible.

Done well, the raw diet has reaped results that have both astounded and delighted so many.

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Sticking “To It”
In transitioning, it’s recommended to be diligent and unswerving, no matter what. Keeping on the path, whether gradually or doing a cold-turkey method, will help avoid uncomfortable repurcussions during this transitional phase.

The reason for this can be attributed to the body’s confusion and discomfort while adjusting back and forth from healthy, non-toxic, easy to assimilate foods to hard-to-digest, fatty, salty, overly sweet and more toxic-type meals.

Vacillation back and forth can lead to discouragement and unpleasant physical and emotional side effects. One might say that the body becomes torn between good food and bad food and begins to react haphazardly. It can be confusing both for body AND mind.

The good news is, in time, the tastebuds change. What tasted bland and uninteresting before, becomes tantalizing and delicious as time progresses. The old food cravings for fat, sugar and salt diminish. Eventually, as one begins to feel better and better and see remarkable changes in their skin, hair and general appearance, it becomes easier and easier to continue on the raw path.

It is possible to change one’s diet gradually, yet consistently. Being 100% raw is not a main great concern… but what is important is incorporating more and more raw foods into the diet. Later, it will become second nature to completely eliminate all cooked, processed, fast, convenience, frozen, canned and packaged foods.

For those wanted ultimate health, the raw diet can be regenerative, restorative, invigorating and “youthenizing.” The greatest reward will be unforeseen and very much appreciated – a sense of joy, completeness and satisfaction, and overall, a much healthier, rewarding and contented lifestyle.

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See Also:
» BEST RAW DIET :: PART 2 :: 12 Important Points
» Important Notes About the Raw Food Diet – Concerns and Confusion

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BEST RAW DIET :: PART 1

here are many who tout the raw food diet as one of the healthiest and most healing diets on Earth. Are they correct? Is eating raw much better than eating cooked? Here are some thoughts to consider, along with a summary.

Raw Food - Homemade Romaine and Heirloom Tomato Salad with Fresh Linseed Oil and Honey Lemon Dressing

UPDATED: May 3, 2012
Please see our article: Important Notes About the Raw Food Diet – Concerns and Confusion. This article addresses key issues of concern and confusion when one adopts a raw food diet.

An important note to consider regarding the Raw Food Diet: 1. Everyone’s body chemistry is a little different. Some people may do quite well on one diet, while others may do equally well on an entirely different diet. Listen to your own body.

2. Research and practice by a number of medical physicians (MDs) has shown that raw, freshly pressed organic juices along with a specific dietary raw and cooked regimen have resulted in complete patient recovery from such illnesses as heart disease, cancer, tuberculosis, depression, Multiple Schlerosis, arthritis, plus a host of other health problems too numerous to mention here.

3. The rawfood diet can be extremely varied. It’s often just a matter of personal preference. What would you prefer? Some rawfoodists espouse the eating of mostly fruit. Other emphasize the addition of superfoods. Others may insist on the necessity of dark green leafy vegetables. Some include nuts and grains while others do not. Some believe in eating raw meat. Some use supplements and “dehydrated” raw foods, which others may proclaim are not “true” raw foods. Some believe that one must consume 100% raw food in order to do a body good. We recommend what suits you best with the emphasis on eating as much raw as you feel comfortable with.

4. Many limiting diets such as the rawfood diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies simply because of the lack of knowledge and experience. Education and turning to long term successful rawfooders for guidance can help. And, it’s always advisable to consult with your doctor or health professional. Some of the most trusted references with excellent credentials include:

Charlotte Gerson, Daughter of Dr. Max Gerson
Dr. Gabriel Cousens
Dr. T. Colin Campbell, PhD.
Dr. Joel Fuhrman M.D.

All the above are accredited medical doctors except for Charlotte Gerson. However, her father, Dr. Max Gerson was one of the most noted and revered medical researchers in the treatment and healing of cancer as well as one of the original proponents of raw juices.

What We Believe Are Some of the Best Raw Foods

All organic (as much as possible):
Sprouted grains made into Sun, Essene type breads
Soaked and sprouted nuts (moderation)
Lots of leafy green vegetables (generous proportions)
A wide variety of vegetables in season (generous proportions)
A wide variety of fruits in season (generous proportions)
Juices as a supplementary measure (Some may not require this)
Smoothies and Shakes, Blended

Some might add:
Fresh, raw milk from Grassfed cows
Fresh and lightly seared, rare meat from clean, humanely raised naturally fed free range livestock
Fresh eggs from naturally and humanely raised chickens
Raw, freshly pressed linseed or flaxseed oil (Very small amounts)
Raw sea vegetables (rare, as most are sundried or dehydrated)

5. It has been said that since our primal ancestors subsisted on solely uncooked foods, so should we. Primates in the wild do not cook, nor seldom if ever get the opportunity to “stick their finger” into meat cooked during a forest fire. Primates with similar DNA to humans subsist very well on raw foods, and much less optimally on cooked foods.

6. Primates may eat throughout the day, chewing and digesting for many hours. Today’s humans most often do not have the opportunity nor time to do the same. Therefore, an all raw diet consumed at leisure throughout the day is a virtual impossibility for modern man.

7. Raw foods often have high levels of natural occurring vitamins, nutrients and enzymes often lost through heating. Before many enzymes are eventually deactivated or destroyed in the stomach by hydrochloric acid, they are able to help process and aid in the uptake of vital nutrients in the gut. Enzymes can be taken up by the body, absorbed or used by the liver, which already contains vast amounts of metabolic enzymes. Naturally occurring fruit and vegetable enzymes can aid in digestion and absorption.

8. Heat treating fruits and vegetables alters their chemistry and makeup. For example, proteins (which most all vegetables contain in some form and proportion) are denatured during the cooking process, becoming more difficult for the digestive tract to separate, digest and assimilate. Heating destroys enzymes and changes the chemical make up of a number of fragile nutrient components.

9. Cooked foods can definitely sustain life and provide bountiful nutrition. However, it has been shown over and over again that once disease has set in and one’s health has been compromised, raw foods (especially when juiced) contribute greatly to advanced and accelerated recuperation and recovery. This could possibly be attributed to dense nutrient bioavailability contained within fresh, raw, liquid juices. Additionally, the less work the body has to do to breakdown fiber and extract nutrients, the sooner nutrients pass into the bloodstream to nourish regenerating cells.

10. Raw foods are in their most natural state, as God and Nature intended. Life on Earth has acclimated and adapted to these raw foods for innumerable millenia, generation upon generation. Our physical bodies have yet to fully acclimate to a cooked diet. But in time, it could be possible to subsist of solely cooked foods if all raw foods were eliminated and only those who were able to procreate yielded more adaptive offspring.

11. There are many who have developed allergies and sensitivities to grain. The offending allergen is often gluten. We have found that natural organic, non GMO, non hybridized, treated grains less likely to cause reactions. We note one friend who had lifelong wheat allergies in the United States, but upon moving to Sweden, lost all such allergies. However, upon return, redeveloped the same allergies when he consumed American non-organic grain and dairy products.

12. If one finds a need to eat cooked foods, by all means, one should avoid feeling remiss or having guilt. A little of this, a little of that, in most all things, can cause little harm. Gradually, one may find that more and more raw is quite suitable and comfortable. That said, Dr. Esselstyn discovered that consumption of meat, fats, avocados, oils and prepared nuts seemed to exacerbate heart attack and stroke reoccurances. Evidently, fats and meats may bring health complications.

SUMMARY

aw foods seems to offer optimal nutrient benefit when partially concentrated in juice form as well as eaten in reasonable and balanced quantity. The reason that juicing may be necessary is because of time required to chew and consume sufficient quantities of fibrous vegetables during average modern alloted mealtimes.

If one can eat and chew throughout the day, it is most likely that the raw food diet offers optimal nutrition over and above a “cooked food” diet. This has been found to be true with animal studies. (We deplore the hurting of any animals in research.)

With the raw diet, it’s important to consume a well balanced, variety of raw foods, including sprouted whole grains, sprouted nuts and seeds, fruits, vegetables and perhaps a small amount of sprouted legumes. Some legumes must be cooked before consumption. However, peas and green beans are fine, raw.

It is also important to eat in sufficient quantity. This is where juicing, food processors, and blending come in. Blender drinks such as smoothies and shakes are an excellent way to obtain plenty of nutrition. Those with health problems may wish to juice rather than blend, as fiber slows nutrient absorption rates.

Click HERE for our optimal green drink recipe.

If you are embarking upon a raw food diet, be sure to read and research as much as you can. Become informed. Ask us – we’ll help guide you to resources, and we will be posting more and more information.

Make changes gradually minimizes side effects. Sudden dietary changes can cause digestive upset. Remember that it’s not necessary to choose 100% of any style of eating or living. Do what feels best for your body. Try and feel what your body’s reactions are to certain types of foods.

In the beginning, the more raw foods you consume, the more likely you may have reactions and flareups. A raw diet can often seem to bring up a number of symptoms of mild discomfort. This can often be caused by what some might call, “detoxification.”

This is simply the body’s method of readjustment, sometimes releasing fats and byproducts into your bloodstream for elimination.

Be easy on yourself. Gentle does it.

As always, we recommend that you always consult with your medical professional for the final word on what’s best for your you and your health.

Knowledge is Power.
In All Things, Know Moderation.
Balance is Key.
Be kind to yourself.
Health has much to do with your mood and state of mind as your physical body.

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