For many years Ben Stein has written a biweekly column called ”Monday Night At Morton’s.”  (Morton’s is a famous chain of Steakhouses known to be frequented by movie stars and famous people from around the globe.)  Now, Ben . . . → Read More: Life lived to help others is the only one that matters!!!]]> This article spoke to my heart since it is why I do what I do….
thank you Ben Stein!              Life Is Too Short!   Enjoy!!!

For many years Ben Stein has written a biweekly column called ”Monday Night At Morton’s.”  (Morton’s is a famous chain of Steakhouses known to be frequented by movie stars and famous people from around the globe.)  Now, Ben is terminating the column to move on to other things in his life.  Reading his final column is worth a few minutes of your time. 

Ben Stein’s Last Column…

How Can Someone Who Lives in Insane Luxury Be a Star in Today’s World?

As I begin to write this, I ’slug’ it, as we writers say, which means I put a heading on top of the document to identify it. This heading is ‘eonline FINAL,’ and it gives me a shiver to write it.  I have been doing this column for so long that I cannot even  recall when I started. I loved writing this column so much for so long I came to believe it would never end.

It worked well for a long time, but gradually, my changing as a person and the world’s change have overtaken it.  On a small scale, Morton’s, while better than ever, no longer attracts as many stars as it used to. It still brings in the rich people in droves and definitely some stars. I saw Samuel L. Jackson there a few days ago, and we had a nice visit, and right before that, I saw and had a splendid talk with Warren Beatty in an elevator, in which we agreed that Splendor in the Grass was a super movie. But Morton’s is not the star galaxy it once was, though it probably will be again.

Beyond that, a bigger change has happened..?  I no longer think Hollywood stars are terribly important. They are uniformly pleasant, friendly people, and they treat me better than I deserve to be treated. But a man or woman who makes a huge wage for memorizing lines and reciting them in front of a camera is no longer my idea of a shining star we should all look up to.

How can a man or woman who makes an eight-figure wage and lives in insane luxury really be a star in today’s world, if by a ’star’ we mean someone bright and powerful and attractive as a role model?  Real stars are not riding around in the backs of limousines or in Porsches or getting trained in yoga or Pilates and eating only raw fruit while they have Vietnamese girls do their nails.

They can be  interesting, nice people, but they are not heroes to me any longer.  A real star is the soldier of the 4th Infantry Division who poked  his head into a hole on a farm near Tikrit , Iraq .  He could have been met by a bomb or a hail of AK-47 bullets.  Instead, he faced an abject Saddam Hussein and the gratitude of all of the decent people of the world.

A real star is the U.S. soldier who was sent to disarm a bomb next to a road north of Baghdad .  He approached it, and the bomb went off and killed him.

A real star, the kind who haunts my memory night and day, is the U.S. soldier in Baghdad who saw a little girl playing with a piece of unexploded ordnance on a street near where he was guarding a station.  He pushed her aside and threw himself on it just as it exploded.  He left a family desolate in California and a little girl alive in Baghdad ..

The stars who deserve media attention are not the ones who have lavish weddings on TV but the ones who patrol the streets of Mosul even after two of their buddies were murdered and their bodies battered and stripped for the sin of trying to protect Iraqis from terrorists.

We put couples with incomes of $100 million a year on the covers of our magazines.  The  noncoms and officers who barely scrape by on military pay but stand on guard in Afghanistan and Iraq and on ships and in submarines and near the Arctic Circle are anonymous as they live and die.

I am no longer comfortable being a part of the system that has such poor values, and I  do not want to perpetuate those values by pretending that who is eating at Morton’s is a big subject.

There are plenty of other stars in the American firmament…the policemen and women who go off on patrol in South Central and have no idea if they will return alive; the orderlies and paramedics who bring in people who have been in terrible accidents and prepare them for surgery; the teachers and nurses who throw their whole spirits into caring for autistic children; the kind men and women who work in hospices and in cancer wards.

Think of each and every fireman who was running up the stairs at the World Trade Center as the towers began to collapse. Now you have my idea of a real hero.

I came to realize that life lived to help others is the only one that matters. This is my highest and best use as a human.  I can put it another way. Years ago, I realized I could never be as great an actor as Olivier or as good a comic as Steve Martin or  Martin Mull or Fred Willard–or as good an economist as Samuelson or Friedman or as good a writer as Fitzgerald.  Or even remotely close to any of them.

But, I could be a devoted father to my son, husband to my wife and, above all, a good son to the parents who had done so much for me.  This came to be my main task in life.  I did it moderately well with my son, pretty well with my wife and well indeed with my parents (with my sister’s help).  I cared for and paid attention to them in their declining years.  I stayed with my father as he got sick, went into extremis and then into a coma and then entered immortality with my sister and me reading him the Psalms.

This was the only point at which my life touched the lives of the soldiers in Iraq or the firefighters in New York …  I came to realize that life lived to help others is the only one that matters and that it is my duty, in return for the lavish life God has devolved upon me, to help others He has placed in my path. This is my highest and best use as a human.

Faith is not believing that God can.  It is knowing that God will.

By  Ben Stein 

I sincerely hope that this article spoke to your heart in some way, as it did mine!  Thanks much for subscribing and reading my blog!

Warmly,
Connie Clark
303-770-3180
http://www.behealthysolutions.com

I hope your year is off to a great start! I want to thank all of you that helped make last year so great.

This year is already getting off to a fantastic start. I look forward to helping all of you, your friends, family, and clients, in any way I can, to make 2011 . . . → Read More: Parabens and Phenoxyethanols found in Breast Cancer]]> Happy new year!

I hope your year is off to a great start! I want to thank all of you that helped make last year so great.

This year is already getting off to a fantastic start. I look forward to helping all of you, your friends, family, and clients, in any way I can, to make 2011 a successful year. Let’s be extra healthy this year with less aches and pains, less excess weight, more energy and all the wonderful things that go with total wellness!

I’m going to start the New Year off with some very important information to help you on your road to great health!

I thought the article below to be important as you should go through all products you own to make sure they are free of parabens, phenoxyethanols, and all harmful ingredients. These are the two ingredients that are very carcinogenic. You should be extremely cautious of everything that you put in and on your bodies. What good are any results if you are at the risk of horrific repercussions from the ingredients you put ON or IN yourself? It is important that I also provide you the necessary education to you and your families so you know how to make the best choices to keep you and your loved ones safe from harmful ingredients. 100% Chemical Free is the Mission you should have for All. Article Below:

Subject: Parabens and Phenoxyethanols found in Breast Cancer
By: Rebecca James Gadberry

Posted: June 25, from Skin Inc. Magazine.

Q. After reading about a British study reporting that parabens in antiperspirants contribute to breast cancer, some of my clients don’t want the substance in their cosmetics. I am looking to you to help clarify this issue for me. Are parabens harmful, or are they safe? Is it true that they have been banned in Europe and Japan?

A . Parabens, which are widely used antimicrobial preservatives for cosmetics, are among the most studied of all cosmetic ingredients and have a long history of safety. Although there is an Internet myth claiming that they have been banned in both Europe and Japan, it is not true. Parabens are allowed for use by every government agency that regulates cosmetics worldwide.

Used since the 1920s in thousands of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, as well as in a few foods, parabens are a family of chemicals known as alkyl esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid. They have various prefixes that refer to the length of the alkyl ester group that branches off of the acid. These include methyl, ethyl, benzyl, propyl and butyl.

Methylparaben is the shortest chain or smallest molecule of the group, butylparaben is the longest and the others are of various midlengths. Several parabens are found in nature, including methylparaben. This most popular variety is produced by certain MOLD species in order to protect themselves from hostile bacteria. However, to my knowledge, NONE that are used in cosmetics or other commercial products come from natural sources. All of those utilized in cosmetics are derived from PETROLEUM.

Throughout the past decade, Parabens have been recognized as several of the more than 8,000 endocrine disrupters (EDs) in the environment. These chemicals, which behave like animal estrogens, can affect hormone balances adversely or disrupt the normal function of organs that are controlled by hormones. Among the more popular plant EDs are phytoestrogens, which are found in SOY, hops, Angelica sinensis (dong quai), Salvia officianalis, clary sage, red clover, pumpkin, poppy, St. John’s wort, rosehips, yarrow and some seaweeds. They now are believed by many researchers to contribute to the increasing incidences of breast cancer, low sperm count and other estrogen-influenced medical problems in humans, as well as to alter the sexual characteristics of fish, frogs and other species by contaminating fresh water supplies. My advice – Stay away from ALL Parabens and Phenoxyethenols – Both found to be in 98% of All Breast Cancer studies.
____________________________________________________________

It seems to me that as far as we are able, we need to eliminate all toxic ingredients from the products that we use on our bodies, in our bodies and in our environment. I have found products that are green and organic and are 100% chemically-free.

If you would like to start your New Year off with really good products that help to eliminate toxins from common products that you use frequently, like shampoo, conditioner, supplements, laundry detergent and so much more, then I invite you to visit Essante Worldwide to check out their Organic and Green products NOW!

Warmly,
Connie
Wellness Consultant and
Health Blog Writer
303-770-3180 home ofc
303-898-7376 mobile
http://www.essanteworldwide.com/optforsuccess

Before I try to explain the basics of glutathione production, I want to tell you a very personal story. My youngest son, Matthew, is alive today because of a glutathione accelerator supplement called MaxGXL/MaxOne. He has been extremely ill for almost 3 years and his doctors tried all kinds of treatments and antibiotics, BUT nothing worked. . . . → Read More: My Youngest Son is Alive! Thanks to Glutathione!]]>

Before I try to explain the basics of glutathione production, I want to tell you a very personal story. My youngest son, Matthew, is alive today because of a glutathione accelerator supplement called MaxGXL/MaxOne. He has been extremely ill for almost 3 years and his doctors tried all kinds of treatments and antibiotics, BUT nothing worked. He lost 40 lbs, his liver and kidneys were severely damaged, he was in severe pain throughout his body and in his joints, he could not absorb nutrients from food or liquids and we were scared to death for him. His doctors had him on special liquids and a 5000 calorie diet to try to get at least a 1000 calories in to his body. They could not come up with a diagnosis and finally removed all treatments and antibiotics. However, early in his treatments, I had sent his doctors documentation of glutathione accelerator supplementation. They agreed that it certainly couldn’t hurt him and may well be of help to him. To make a long story short, his doctors expected major decline (life-threatening major decline) when they next checked him out. To their great surprise, he had not declined. They sent word to me through my son that the only thing he was taking that could be sustaining his life was the glutathione accelerator supplement. Hooray for MaxGXL/MaxOne!!!

I can’t begin to tell you how thrilled I am that Matthew had the time so that the doctors could continue to look for a diagnosis and treatment that would help him.

What if you aren’t getting enough free radical protection, despite consuming all the high antioxidant foods and some of the best antioxidant supplements available? How could that be? Don`t ignore this vital nutrient for your health and your life. How it could be is that your glutathione levels are too low. This is a very common situation with all the oxidation stress our toxic environment provides, along with a little help from our own personal stress.

Oxidative stress represents an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (free radicals) and the body’s ability to detoxify the reactive intermediates and repair the resulting damage. High levels of unmanaged oxidative stress accelerate aging and disease formation. Anti-oxidants are a primary defense against the damaging effects of oxidative stress. Glutathione is the major antioxidant that our cells produce. Higher levels of glutathione are associated with great health and anti-aging effects on the body.

A chain reaction occurs as atoms robbed of an electron become free radicals and continue the oxidation process, robbing electrons as needed from other sources. This changes the identity and function of those atoms as they combine in unnatural ways, leading to cellular and DNA damage. And eventually, of course many health issues and disease will occur freely.

Moreover, the air we breathe is loaded with toxins and heavy metals (www.naturalnews.com/026258.html) as well as in many of the foods we eat (www.naturalnews.com/026216.html), and any pharmaceuticals that may have been taken. These toxins create more free radicals while burdening our bodies with toxic material. Our immune system becomes damaged from psychological and physcial stress with our modern lifestyle and the chaos around us. It is quite astonishing that many of us are still able to walk and talk!

But we need as much protection from all this to stay out of hospitals in the meantime. So whatever can neutralize the free radical oxidation process while eliminating toxins is necessary. Enter antioxidants, including the most overlooked yet most important one of them all: glutathione, the key to maximum oxidation protection and detoxification while creating a strong immune system.

Glutathione Details

It is called the master antioxidant. It is an intracellular antioxidant essential for maximum antioxidant activity from all other antioxidants, including vitamin C, vitamin E, CoQ10, and many others. It removes toxins from cells, and protects against radiation.

Unfortunately, buying anything that says it is glutathione is a waste of pill popping money. The body`s digestive system is very poor at taking glutathione into where it needs to go. Fortunately, there are other ways to accelerate the body`s glutathione, which are talked about in this Post.

It is the body`s intracellular function to produce glutathione in the liver from three amino acids, cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycene. Enough is needed to catalyze and maintain all the antioxidant`s you consume for your protection. It even acts as insurance to prevent antioxidants from becoming free radicals themselves, regenerating and recycling them. As you get older, your body`s ability to produce glutathione decreases.

Many now consider decreased glutathione production as the root cause of accelerated aging and ailments that are considered “normal” from aging, including Alzheimer`s, inflammatory conditions from allergy to arthritis, asthma, COPD, Parkinson`s Disease, and coronary and autoimmune diseases. DNA damage resulting from free radicals often leads to cancer. This is a very basic foundation that goes astray as we age. If one can enhance internal glutathione production, the empowered immune system will create a bedrock of good health regardless of age.

Glutathione in our bodies can become inactive when it is saturated from doing it`s work, but it tends to regenerate itself. Under ideal environmental conditions, 10% of the glutathione remains inactive, or oxidized, while the other 90% is active, or reduced, and continues to balance cell molecules and other antioxidants, as well as remove toxins. This is the function of normal metabolism`s waste removal of free radicals by glutathione. But the barrage of additional toxins from our environment is too much to maintain that 90/10 ratio.

As the active glutathione drops below 90% and allows the inactive to increase beyond 10%, the battle for optimum health becomes a losing battle. It becomes more and more difficult to remove toxins naturally. As they build up, the active glutathione decreases even more. When GSH falls below 70%, troubles begin to work on one`s health.

For long term protection, it`s necessary to introduce precursors that stimulate the cells to create their own GSH glutathione, as needed internally, via the liver.

So it`s important to feed the body GSH precursors. Of the three amino acids that generate GSH (active glutathione) in the liver, cysteine is considered the most vital link. It has been discovered that cysteine, balanced properly with glutamic acid and glycene, stimulates GSH production.

There are very few whey protein products that promote GSH production with cysteine. The processing of those whey products is delicate and precise; therefore, the products themselves can be costly, as high as $66 USD for a month`s supply. Usually they are in powder form. It is much easier and convenient to take a nutritional supplement, specifically a glutathione accelerator, to provide the body with the necessary precursors so that the body can produce its own glutathione within every cell.

In addition to the supplementation you wind up using, or in lieu of using a supplement, here are some foods that are beneficial toward the GSH, glutathione circulating process. It is important to consume organic foods as the toxins added to conventional foods minimize the GSH levels.

All meats are high in cysteine, but unless you can go truly organic, the hormones and toxins will virtually neutralize GSH.  Watermelon, walnuts, avocado, asparagus, broccoli, and tomato are good choices for glutathione enhancement, as are many dark green leafy vegetables. Ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, wheat germ and oat flakes round out this list. However, you would need to eat a lot of these foods in order for the body to product its own glutathione.

The research and discovery of glutathione`s importance, and the process to manufacture it within the body for proper circulation is relatively recent. Its awareness has straddled both alternative and mainstream medicine. GSH glutathione`s importance as an essential antioxidant is indisputable. The health ramifications for just this one single agent, internally promoted by proper precursors, are comprehensive and encompassing.

This Post explains the differences between externally administered glutathione and glutathione produced within the body’s cells, and how to increase that production.

External Glutathione

Glutathione production decreases with aging, but GSH is what you really need as you age. It could be considered nature’s dirty trick, but it’s probably due more to the increased oxidative stress from our increasingly toxic environment.

There are some who can afford injected or IV glutathione. But most of us simply can’t afford this method.Glutathione does have desired anti-aging properties.

The IV injections are very costly, and one must get weekly injections because it quickly dies off. Actually, this type of treatment may inhibit the body’s ability to create and circulate GSH. It’s like constantly refilling the gas tank when your car quits running.

Another external method is inhaling GSH through a nebulizer. This works well for victims of emphysema, COPD, and other lung disorders. However, it is not recommended for asthmatics.

And there are even prescription only suppositories that increase serum level glutathione. Emergency rooms use NAC (N-acetyl-cysteine) to counteract toxic reactions from acetaminophen, found in many over the counter pain killers and prescription drugs. This pharmaceutical quickly produces a quick fix of glutathione, but it’s not recommended for regular use.

Once again, you will ultimately need to refill your gas tank!

Fixing the GSH Gas Tank Naturally

There are nutritional supplements called glutathione accelerators available, which simply have the necessary precursors in capsule form. It is a very convenient way to support the body’s structure and allow it to produce its own glutathione within your body’s cells. This is completely natural and allows the body to heal itself as it was meant to do.

Two food sources for GSH production are unadulterated, undenatured whey and colostrum. They are both from bovine sources that are grass fed and not hormone or antibiotic injected. Colostrum is raw milk from the mother cow’s first feeding of calves, which is converted into a powder. Personally, I would prefer that my body produce its own glutathione as it was designed to do.

The same for whey, which is converted to powders from milk solids. Disregard denatured or pasteurized whey that is sold as a protein source for body builders and athletes with claims of being unadulterated. They are denatured (pasteurized) and flavored, which contradicts unadulterated claims. Those wheys won’t do much for GSH production.

Other GSH Boosters

As mentioned previously in this Post, foods need to be raw and organic; dairy or meats should be from grass fed sources. Meat is not so great eaten raw. Raw eggs can be put into your blender with a protein mix. Organic walnuts, broccoli, asparagus, watermelon, garlic, spinach, tomatoes, avocado, turmeric, and ricotta cheese all contain or create the needed precursors for intracellular GSH creation. But it can take a lot of food in order to produce enough glutathione.

And now the liver herb milk thistle has been discovered to boost GSH. Glutathione is extremely important as an essential antioxidant, detoxifier, and immune system booster.

Warmly,
Connie Clark
Alternative Health Consultant
303-770-3180

Chiropractic therapy is one possible solution that provides Multiple Benefits.

Chiropractic therapy directly addresses nerve system functioning and improves the mechanics of the musculoskeletal system. Frequently the result of such wide spread improved functioning is a reduction in a person’s chronic pain, if it is present. Chronic pain relief is often of great benefit to those living . . . → Read More: The Pain of Clinical Depression]]>

Chiropractic therapy is one possible solution that provides Multiple Benefits.

Chiropractic therapy directly addresses nerve system functioning and improves the mechanics of the musculoskeletal system. Frequently the result of such wide spread improved functioning is a reduction in a person’s chronic pain, if it is present. Chronic pain relief is often of great benefit to those living with clinical depression.

The improved and enhanced nerve function provided by chiropractic therapy forms the basis for total wellness and well-being. By focusing on biomechanics, your chiropractor helps your body to begin healing itself across a wide range of systems.

As chronic pain begins to fade and resolve, significant pressures are reduced in your brain and other components of your central nerve system. Associated psychological pressures may also be relieved and chronic depression may be lifted as a result of decreased biomechanical stress and decreased physical pain.

Depression is often thought of as a psychological condition. The causes of depression are often sought in the person’s childhood or in her personal circumstances as an adult. But within the last 10 or 20 years, depression is more frequently being evaluated within a physiological context. Various disease states and physical disorders are being recognized as significant contributors to depression. This viewpoint is empowering to people with depression and often provides a way forward when progress has been minimal or absent.

Those with depression may experience both physical and psychological pain. It is well-documented that chronic physical pain can lead to depression. Also, it is very well-known that depressive states can cause physical pain. A feedback loop (vicious cycle) is frequently created in which physical pain makes a person’s depression worse and the person’s depression makes the physical pain worse.

In addition, changes in brain physiology can cause a person to be depressed. In other words, abnormal electrical activity in the brain – which, of course, is not under the person’s conscious control – may result in depression. The brain’s electrical activity is evaluated by a method known as quantitative EEG (QEEG).1 For those with clinical depression, the QEEG often demonstrates too much slow-wave activity in the left front brain (prefrontal cortex) and too much fast-wave activity in the right prefrontal cortex.

Being a person with chronic clinical depression all of my life, I am personally able to share that for those with clinical depression, the light of the world is considerably dimmed. The mood of a depressed person is low and he loses interest in normally pleasurable activities. Depressive disorders interfere with a person’s work and/or school activities, family life and social life, and overall health. Lack of energy, lack of appetite, and decreased physical activity are all associated with clinical depression. I have experienced all of these symptoms from time to time.

An access to relieving chronic depression may be found in encouraging the person to begin to engage in physical activity.2,3 Such activity may be difficult for those who are severely depressed, and yet all persons with depression should attempt to work with this form of therapy.

Additionally, chiropractic therapy may be of great benefit for those with clinical depression. The pain relief and improved musculoskeletal function afforded by chiropractic therapy may help reduce the physical component of ongoing depression. It definitely has helped me to some extent and I would recommend this therapy for people dealing with ongoing depression.

I would be remiss if I didn’t point out that most diseases/illnesses are associated with inflammation and toxins within our bodies, even depression. I am in line for Alzheimers and Dementia through family genes, but I firmly believe that we should be responsible for our own health and can change those family hand-me-downs. One of the greatest health solutions for inflammation and toxins within our bodies is glutathione. We cannot take glutathione directly because its molecule is too large to enter our cells; also it is destroyed within the digestive system before it can significantly reach the necessary organs of our bodies.

Scientists and doctors have been researching and looking for a way to introduce glutathione into our bodies for a very long time since it is so necessary for total wellness and life itself. Also, glutathione production in our bodies begins to decrease at the age of 20 years old and continues to decrease significantly due to stress, environmental pollutants, cigarette smoke, diet, exercise, chemical toxins, illness and aging. So you should be able to see that it is very important to our total wellness, aging process and life itself.

Fortunately, a renowned doctor and scientist working on the same research for glutathione production in our bodies for the past 25 plus years were able to provide a solution to this much needed glutathione in the body. It was not brought to the pharmaceutical world because so often, they bury significant discoveries in order to retain their bottom line of making money. Instead, this discovery/solution was brought to men who recognize unique, breakthrough products and who had plenty of financial backing to bring this discovery to the world. That product is MaxGXL (1st generation of product) and/or MaxOne (2nd generation of product) and the product supports our body’s structure and function so that the body can perform as it was made to do and heal itself. It allows our body to produce its very own glutathione and recycle it, as well. Nothing else out there can do this. Inflammation and toxins are a thing of the past with glutathione. It is also a mood lifter for depression.

We are born into this world with glutathione and we die without glutathione. A powerful antioxidant, it is called the Master Antioxidant by scientists, it is working hard to keep every cell in your body safe from free radical damage and oxidative stress. Oxidative stress has been associated with more than 74 major diseases and disorders. It is produced naturally in our cells if the required building blocks are available. Among its many functions, it strengthens the immune system, detoxifies the body, fights intracellular inflammation, and neutralizes numerous types of free radicals. Do not be without this greatest discovery for total wellness in our lifetime.

Although we cannot cure or treat any disease or illness, we can and do say that this glutathione accelerator product does support the structure and functions in the body. Therefore, the body can then heal itself, which it was created to be able to do. When we load it with so much chemical toxins, pollutants, stress, illness/disease, in addition to the aging process, the body is so burdened that it can no longer do what it was created to be able to do with the power it used to have. Thus, that is why this glutathione accelerator product is so important for total wellness, aging and life inself.

1Hargrove JB, et al: Quantitative electroencephalographic abnormalities in fibromyalgia patients. Clin EEG Neurosci 41(3):132-139, 2010
2Gill A, et al: Clinical Inquiries: Does exercise alleviate symptoms of depression? J Fam Pract 59(9):530-531, 2010
3Uebelacker LA, et al: Hatha yoga for depression: critical review of the evidence for efficacy, plausible mechanisms of action, and directions for future research. J Psychiatr Pract 16(1):22-33, 2010

To our best health!

Connie Clark
303-770-3180 home office
303-898-7376 mobile
My Health Blog (please visit and consider subscribing): http://www.behealthysolutions.com
This Is Why I’m Excited! Watch The Video. http://www.LookUpMax.com
Max Website: http://www.connieclark.max4u.com

I have learned a lot about the lack of safety concerns and regulations since researching natural organic and/or wild crafted products over the years.

One of the first things that was shocking was that generally the FDA doesn’t regulate cosmetics and personal care products. So if you think . . . → Read More: FDA Doesn’t Keep Shampoos and Conditioners manufactured with Toxic Ingredients from the Public!]]> That is really sad, isn’t it? Read for more details….

I have learned a lot about the lack of safety concerns and regulations since researching natural organic and/or wild crafted products over the years.

One of the first things that was shocking was that generally the FDA doesn’t regulate cosmetics and personal care products. So if you think the FDA would let us know about toxins and harmful ingredients….they weren’t given the direction to do so! Since 1894, this industry has been a self-policing organization called the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association – or now known as the Personal Care Products Council with over 600 different product distributors and manufacturers. It’s like having the fox watch the hen house to ensure safety.

So, what is necessary for you to be aware of in shampoos, conditioners, lotions, etc.? Make use of resources that help you make right choices of what is safe for your health and that of your family. A few changes have come about recently on some toxins but there are still a lot of toxic ingredients in lots of products. Here are a few examples of toxic ingredients that can actually make you ill if used daily in shampoos and conditioners:

• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate [often referred to as SLS] – This chemical ingredient helps shampoo and soap to lather and foam. It’s used in car washes and garages as a degreasing agent. Acting as a performance enhancer, it helps other ingredients penetrate, allowing potentially toxic ingredients to enter the bloodstream. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), research on SLS has shown links to
o Skin and eye irritation
o Development and reproductive toxicity
o Endocrine disruption
o Ecotoxicological, biochemical or cellular changes
o Neurotoxicity
o Possible mutations and cancer

Visit www.ewg.org to see the list of research studies in their PubMed library. There are over 15,000 studies as well as lists of health concerns and adverse conditions related to SLS.

Note: SLS goes by a number of names, including: sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, ammonium laurel sulfate, sodium dodecylsulfate, sulfuric acid, sodium salt sulfuric acid, A12-00356, Akyposal SDS, Aquarex ME, and Aquarex methyl. Check all personal care products for this ingredient.

• Paraben – Used as a preservative, this toxin has been linked to hormone and endocrine system disruption. Used as an antimicrobial ingredient, this chemical is considered a xeno-estrogen (false estrogen) because it interferes with normal hormonal and estrogen behavior. Xeno-estrogens mimic, disrupt and block normal behavior and pathways. For example, parabens can impact fertility, pregnancy, menstruation, and even fat cell activity. Too much estrogen can cause weight gain, fluid retention and depression. Scientists have found paraben nodules in breast cancer tumors.

Note: Check all personal care product labels for these names –
o Propylparaben
o Parahydroxybenzoic acid
o Parahydroxybenzoate
o Methylparaben
o Ethylparaven
o Buylparaben
o Benzyl-parahydroxybenzoic acid
o Methyl-parahydroxybenzoic acid
o Propyl-parahydroxybenzoic acid
o Butyl-parahydroxybenzoic acid

• Dioxane – This toxic chemical was one of over 200 carcinogens linked to breast cancer in 2007 in the medical journal, Cancer. This link to cancer was reported as early as 1965, yet it is still found in personal care products today – for both adults and children!

In 1985, the FDA requested a voluntary limit of dioxane in products of 10 parts per million, but that has NOT occurred.

• Diethanolamine (DEA) – This toxic chemical ingredient reacts with nitrite preservatives and contaminants in personal care products to form nitrosodienthanolamine (NDEA). NDEA is a known, potent carcinogen.

DEA seems to block choline, a nutrient vital for healthy brain development. Pregnant women actually need extra choline for fetal development. An associate dean for research at the UNC School of Public Health believed that choline is necessary to help provide proper nutrients for a health baby.

The FDA has reported that around 42% of all cosmetics are contaminated with NDEA – with shampoos having the highest concentrations.

• Monosodium glutamate (MSG) – In your shampoo? A joke, right? Nope, it’s often hidden and referred to as yeast extract, naiad, glutamic acid, or glutamates. However, the reactions to it in your shampoo are just like in your food. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, numbness, burning sensations, tingling, facial pressure, nausea, drowsiness and weakness.

• Propylene Glycol – This ingredient is found in engine coolants and antifreeze, airplane deicers, tire sealants, rubber cleaners, polyurethane cushions, paints, enamels, and other products as a solvent or surfactant. It’s a skin irritant that can also cause liver abnormalities and kidney damage. It’s more than likely in your shampoo!

So, what can be done about this?

Keep a list of toxic and harmful ingredients in your purse or wallet. Check it against the labels of EVERY product you plan to buy! CHOOSE to be chemical-free whenever possible.

REMEMBER, your skin cannot protect you against these toxins. It is our largest organ with the greatest absorption for everything that touches your skin. And toxins in your shampoo and conditioner could well be MORE toxic than what is in your food.

There are great sources for safe, natural organic and/or wild crafted shampoos and conditioners for you! You do have a choice for safer, organic products and you can protect your family against the unseen threats from toxic ingredients.

And, of course, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that one of the greatest products I have ever found in my years of research for eliminating toxins from our body is MaxGXL, a glutathione accelerator. You can learn more about this product and its anti-aging abilities at http://www.connieclark.max4u.com
Warmly,
Connie
303-770-3180 home office
303-898-7376 mobile
Essante Worldwide (Organic and Green) http://www.essanteworldwide.com/optforsuccess

As I have before and still . . . → Read More: Banish Wrinkles and Boost Memory with Fruits, Vegetables, Probiotics, Enzymes and More!]]>
Although there is no “fountain of youth,” there are many foods and natural compounds that can help combat the consequences of normal aging, like memory loss and sagging skin. Recent research has uncovered the potential power of antioxidant compounds found in berries for fighting some of the undesirable effects of aging.

As I have before and still do, I highly recommend a whole, live food product.

The InstaFresh™ Difference
As a result of two decades of ongoing R&D, the Nuriche exclusive InstaFresh™ process has emerged as the most nutritionally protective way of creating whole food powders. In less than 30 seconds and at temperatures below 100º F, fruits, vegetables, and sprouts become blendable powders, rich combinations of fruits, vegetables, enzymes, trace minerals, probiotics and seeds, nuts and sprouts, and waiting to be brought to life by the water you add.

INGREDIENTS:
Each serving contains juice and whole food concentrates from:

ORAC Rich Berry & Fruit Blend (30): Purple Grape*, Noni Fruit, Acai Berry, Mangosteen, Wolfberry-Goji, Raspberry*, Black Currant, Blackberry*, Blueberry*, Hawthorn Berry, Pomegranate, Bilberry, Cranberry, Elderberry, Whole Purple Grape, Strawberry*, Acerola Cherry, Cherry*, Orange, Watermelon*, Papaya, Lemon, Grapefruit, Peach, Prune, Plum* and Pineapple in a base of Apple, Pear, and Banana.

Nutrient Rich Vegetable Green Blend (30): Barley Grass juice powder*, Alfalfa Leaf juice powder*, Wheat Grass juice powder*, Carrot*, Beet*, Oat Grass juice powder*, Dunaliella, Kelp, Spinach*, Sweet Potato*, Dulse, Klamath Lake Algae*, Chlorella, Spirulina, Broccoli*, Kale, Tomato*, Squash, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Bell Pepper, Parsley, Cucumber, Brussels Sprout, Onion, Celery, Garlic, Cayenne, Asparagus and Ginger.

Omega Rich SNS Blend (11): ** Flax Seed, Oat Bran, Brown Rice Fiber Complex, Almond Seed*, Sunflower Seed, Chia Seed, Quinoa Sprout*, Amaranth Sprout*, Wheat Sprout*, Pumpkin Seed, and Sesame Seed.

Enzyme Rich Mineral Blend (83): Amylase, Cellulase, Protease, Lactase, Lipase, Maltase, Bromelain, Sucrase, Ionic Fulvic Mineral Extract Powder, Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Aloe Vera Leaf Extract and Yucca.

Vital Probiotic Blend (22): Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Lactobacillus sporogenes, Lactococcus lactis, Lactococcus cremoris, Lactobacillus delbrueckii, Lactobacillus kefir, Leuconostoc cremoris, Lactobacillus caucasicus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus salivarius, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus brevis, Bifidobacterium infantis, Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium breve and Streptococcus thermophilus.

*Certified Organic

Healthy Energy
When you make live, whole foods part of your daily diet, you’ll immediately start to notice some changes in how you feel. For starters, you’ll sleep better at night and awaken feeling rested and alert. You’ll find that as you go through your day you think more clearly and feel more energetic the whole day through. LiVE and ReVive don’t merely provide long-term health benefits—They deliver an immediate, noticeable change in how you feel.

•Greater Mental Clarity
•Improved Endurance
•More Restful Sleep
•Long-lasting Energy

Natural Weight Loss
One of the great advantages of LiVE and ReVive’s whole food nutrition is that your body will become accustomed to the best kind of nutrients. As a consequence, you’ll be less likely to crave snack foods and other hollow calories, less prone to the between-meal hunger pangs that seem to undermine your attempts to lose weight. Meanwhile, your digestion will improve as your body benefits from a natural cleansing process that helps your body retain only what it needs to keep you feeling fit.

•Less Hunger
•Fewer Cravings
•Improved Digestion
•Natural Cleansing

Personal Vitality
It is an established fact that the natural whole foods in LiVE help your body to function better overall. One reason for that is that live, whole foods are high in antioxidants, phytonutrients and enzymes, which means that they help reduce the negative effects of toxins that build up in your body. At the same time, however, such nutrients tend to increase oxygenation (which is good), meaning that your blood remains richer in oxygen to supply the functions of healthy cells. Many people also report that whole food nutrition helps to reduce stress and improve their overall sense of well-being.

•Reduced Stress
•Improved Circulation
•Increased Oxygenation

A recent study, presented at the National Meeting of the American Chemical Society, analyzed the effects of certain compounds found in berries1. Researchers found that antioxidant compounds from berries may activate and protect special cells within the brain (known as microglia) which help remove the buildup of toxins that can lead to memory decline.

As part of the normal aging process, microglia can become dysfunctional, either failing to do their job of “cleaning up” the brain or actually damaging healthy cells, both of which are associated with age-related cognitive decline. This new research suggests that consuming antioxidant-rich berries, including blueberries, strawberries and blackberries, may help protect the brain from the gradual buildup of harmful toxins that can affect proper cognitive function.

In addition to their brain-boosting benefits, berries may also help counter the effects of aging on the surface of the skin. A recent study published in Experimental Dermatology revealed that ellagic acid, an antioxidant compound found in various berries, may actually reverse skin damage (including wrinkles and inflammation) caused by UV-B radiation2.

Researchers used a topical preparation of ellagic acid on human skin cells and hairless mice exposed to UV-B radiation. Results showed that the application of ellagic acid to the skin prevented inflammatory response, as well as the destruction of collagen, the compound responsible for skin’s firmness and elasticity.

Another similar study analyzed the effect of antioxidant-rich bog blueberry extract on human dermal fibroblasts (skin cells) exposed to UV-B radiation3. Researchers discovered that the extract reduced collagen breakdown and inflammation in the exposed skin cells. The study author hypothesized that the anthocyanins (antioxidant compounds) found in the blueberry extract may have a protective power against UV-induced photoaging, a common cause of wrinkles.

I believe in the power of antioxidants – and this research only confirms my thoughts that a healthy diet can help make the natural aging process as smooth and graceful as possible. I recommend eating plenty of dark-skinned fruits, such as blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, cranberries, cherries and grapes, as these typically contain a higher concentration of antioxidants. I particularly recommend eating fresh fruit and/or freshly prepared fruit juice, or frozen fruit when fresh is not available. Alternatively, one may drink commercially prepared, vacuum packed fruit juice. For skin protection and preservation, I suggest looking for a facial cream or serum that is enriched with antioxidants such as resveratrol (commonly found in grape skin), vitamin C or CoQ10. To your best health always!

And I have found that using my whole live food product LiVE and ReVive are the easiest and cheapest way to get what we need into our bodies. I highly recommend that you visit http://www.mynuriche.com./connieclark and read more about this phenomenal product. You can’t do better than this.

RESOURCES
1. Poulose S, Joseph J. Eating berries may activate the brain’s natural housekeeper for healthy aging. (Presented at the semi-annual meeting of the American Chemical Society, Boston, Massachusetts, August 24-30, 2010).

2. Bae JY, Choi JS, Kang SW, Lee YJ, Park J, Kang YH. Dietary compound ellagic acid alleviates skin wrinkle and inflammation induced by UV-B irradiation. Exp Dermatol. 2010 Aug;19(8):e182-90.

3. Bae JY, Lim SS, Kim SJ, Choi JS, Park J, Ju SM, Han SJ, Kang IJ, Kang YH. Bog blueberry anthocyanins alleviate photoaging in ultraviolet-B irradiation-induced human dermal fibroblasts. Mol Nutr Food Res. 2009 Jun;53(6):726-38.

Warmly,
Connie Clark
Wellness Coach and Consultant
303-770-3180

One of the primary perpetrators? Pesticides. Pesticides are continuously used in today’s farming methods. With the thousands of pesticides in use today, it’s easy to think there’s nothing you can do to safeguard yourself. But a study conducted at Emory University in 2008 paints a much more positive picture.

Researchers recruited Seattle-area school . . . → Read More: Environmental Causes of Disease? Simple Ways To Eliminate Pesticide/Toxins from Your Body!]]> Environmental causes of disease.

One of the primary perpetrators? Pesticides. Pesticides are continuously used in today’s farming methods. With the thousands of pesticides in use today, it’s easy to think there’s nothing you can do to safeguard yourself. But a study conducted at Emory University in 2008 paints a much more positive picture.

Researchers recruited Seattle-area school children for a year-long study.1 The study looked at the role of dietary produce in pesticide exposure. When the study began, the children were eating traditionally grown fruits and vegetables. Based on urine samples, all the children had considerable levels of one type of pesticide, organophosphorus pesticides (OP). Researchers chose to look at OPs because they’re so extensively used today.

During the course of the experiment, the children were given organic produce for one to two weeks instead. After eating organic instead of conventional produce for just five days, the results were spectacular. There were no detectible residues in the children’s urine. When they changed back to conventional produce, OP levels rose again. The switch was repeated several times during the year. The results were consistent; after just a few days of consuming organic instead of traditional fruits and vegetables, pesticide levels were no longer detectable.

References:
Lu C, Barr DB, Pearson MA, Waller LA. Dietary intake and its contribution to longitudinal organophosphorus pesticide exposure in urban/suburban children. Environ Health Perspect 2008; 116: 537-542.

Additional Environmental Causes of Disease
The primary ingredient in Simple Green is 2-butoxyethanol, a possible human carcinogen specifically prohibited in certified green products. When used at full strength, this product released 93 air contaminants, the second highest number released by any product tested.

The ” Simple-Green” is not so simple after all. I hope this doesn’t surprise anyone because it was published a while back that most of the so called “green-products” were not really green.

How embarrassing does it get?

I am disgusted! This information is from Environmental Working group. Be sure and read the whole thing… read what they say about the product at the bottom of the post or better yet… go to the website at http://www.ewg.org/schoolcleaningsupplies/cleaningsuppliesoverview?id=209

Consumers like you have the right to know what’s in your cleaning supplies. As little as $5 can help EWG continue important research just like this.

Simple Green Concentrated Cleaner/ Degreaser/ Deodorizer
The primary ingredient in Simple Green is 2-butoxyethanol, a possible human carcinogen specifically prohibited in certified green products. When used at full strength, this product released 93 air contaminants, the second highest number released by any product tested.

Made by: Sunshine Makers / Sunshine Makers, Inc.
Green Certification: None

Ingredients
Disclosed on the bottle label: No ingredients were disclosed on the label.

Claims
Concentrated, all-purpose cleaner. Non-toxic. Biodegradable, and safer alternative to toxic cleaners, solvents and bleaches. Removes grease, oil carbon, dirt, pet stains, coffee and juice stains, lipstick, food, soil, wet nail polish, soap scum, inks, crayon, blood, smoke, soot, adhesives, chocolate, and much more from any washable, indoor/outdoor household surface. Saves you money- Bottle can make 5 gallons of general cleaner. Product is safe and non-toxic for general health. Bottle 100% recyclable.

Warnings
Irritant. May Irritate eyes. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid eye contact. Mild eye irritation after contact may occur associated with polyethyleneglycol ether derivatives. Use in well ventilated areas. Individual with with sensitive skin should take appropriate precautions. Do not dispose of degreasing rinseates into or near storm drains, oceans, lakes or streams.

93 Air Contaminants Detected
1 Ingredients disclosed by manufacturer

Concerns of the chemicals detected
Key health concerns highlighted by major agencies (Study Methodology)
1 Chemicals cause asthma FORMALDEHYDE
3 Chemicals on California’s Prop 65 List for cancer and reproductive toxicity FORMALDEHYDE, ACETALDEHYDE, ALLYLANISOLE
3 Chemicals linked to cancer 2-BUTOXYETHANOL, FORMALDEHYDE, ACETALDEHYDE
0 Chemicals linked to reproductive toxicity
2 Chemicals that disrupt hormones ETHYLENE GLYCOL, PHENOL
1 Chemicals toxic to the brain and nervous system PHENOL
No Corrosive concentrate or dangerous pH

The chemicals detected
Chemical: EWG’s Skin Deep Toxicity Score: Disclosed / Detected: Further Toxic Concerns noted in EWG’s Skin Deep database (2009):
FORMALDEHYDE 10 detected Cancer, Developmental/reproductive toxicity, Violations, restrictions & warnings, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs), Occupational hazards, Biochemical or cellular level changes
PHENOL #† 9 detected Developmental/reproductive toxicity, Violations, restrictions & warnings, Neurotoxicity, Persistence and bioaccumulation, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs), Occupational hazards
ACETALDEHYDE 9 detected Cancer, Developmental/reproductive toxicity, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs), Occupational hazards
PROPYLENE GLYCOL # 7 detected Cancer, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Persistence and bioaccumulation, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs), Enhanced skin absorption
2-BUTOXYETHANOL # 6 detected and disclosed Cancer, Developmental/reproductive toxicity, Violations, restrictions & warnings, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs), Occupational hazards
BUTYL ALCOHOL # 6 detected Violations, restrictions & warnings, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs), Occupational hazards
LIMONENE # 6 detected Violations, restrictions & warnings, Allergies/immunotoxicity, Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs)
ETHYLENE GLYCOL #† 5 detected Developmental/reproductive toxicity, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Contamination concerns (ETHYLENE GLYCOL MONOETHYL ETHER, METHOXYETHANOL), Occupational hazards
BENZALDEHYDE # 5 detected Neurotoxicity, Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs), Occupational hazards
DIETHYLENE GLYCOL MONOETHYL ETHER # 4 detected Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive)
PROPIONALDEHYDE 4 detected Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs), Occupational hazards
OCTANAL #† 3 detected Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs)
EUCALYPTOL ** 2 detected none identified
ALLYLANISOLE # 2 detected Cancer, Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs)
alpha-PINENES # 2 detected Persistence and bioaccumulation, Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs), Occupational hazards
DECANE # 1 detected none identified
PROPYLENE GLYCOL BUTYL ETHER # 1 detected Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs)
BUTYL FORMATE ** 1 detected Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs)
BUTYRALDEHYDE # 1 detected Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive)
DIPROPYL KETONE ** 1 detected Occupational hazards
DIHYDROANETHOLE * 1 detected none identified
DODECANE # 1 detected Persistence and bioaccumulation, Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs)
HEXADECANE # 1 detected Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs)
PENTADECANE # 1 detected Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs)
MYRCENE # 1 detected Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs)
TETRADECANE # 1 detected Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs)
TRIDECANE # 1 detected Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs)
gamma-TERPINENE ** 1 detected Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs)
TERPINOLENE ** 1 detected Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs)
PROPANE, 1-(ETHENYLOXY)-2-METHYL * 1 detected none identified
BENZENE, 1-ETHYL-4-METHYL (4-ETHYLTOLUENE) # 1 detected none identified
HEXENAL, 2-ETHYL- * 1 detected none identified

Laboratory Data Qualifiers
#† Denotes quantified using multipoint authentic standard curve (post-calibration). Other VOCs quantified relative to toluene.
# Indicates AQS database match with a probability greater than 99%.
**** Indicates NIST/EPA/NIH best library match only based on retention time and mass spectral characteristics with a probability greater than 95%.
*** Indicates NIST/EPA/NIH best library match only based on retention time and mass spectral characteristics with a probability greater than 90%.
** Indicates NIST/EPA/NIH best library match only based on retention time and mass spectral characteristics with a probability greater than 85%.
* Indicates NIST/EPA/NIH best library match only based on retention time and mass spectral characteristics with a probability greater than 80%.

HEADQUARTERS 1436 U Street. NW, Suite 100 | Washington, DC 20009 | (202) 667-6982 | Contact Us
CALIFORNIA OFFICE 2201 Broadway, Suite 308 | Oakland, CA 94612 | Contact Us
MIDWEST OFFICE 103 E. 6th Street, Suite 201 | Ames, IA 50010 | Contact Us
SACRAMENTO OFFICE 1107 9th Street, Suite 340 | Sacramento, CA 95814 | Contact Us

Copyright 2007-2009, Environmental Working Group. All Rights Reserved.
______________________________________________________________
And that was just one supposedly “green” product. I haven’t even touched on all the traditional cleaners out there that are NOT considered “green”. There are health solutions to better, safer products than the so called “traditional” types of household cleaners.
______________________________________________________________
One thing is apparent. We just are not aware enough concerning the health problems of the countless amounts of chemicals in extensive use today. Here’s why:

Over 80,000 artificial chemicals are approved to be used in the united states. Items include pesticides, fertilizers, plastics, paints, coatings, fire retardants, and also oil dispersants (Gulf oil spill, anyone?).

Just a few hundred of the 80,000 chemicals are actually tested for safety.

Numerous chemicals used today are known and suspected carcinogens. Carcinogen means cancer causing.

Even with this identified poisoning, the vast majority of chemicals remain unregulated.

Chemicals generally are studied for safety individually. This tells us nothing at all about the harm to health that may result from being exposed to multiple chemicals at once.

Additionally, single chemical testing doesn’t represent reality. All of us are exposed to dozens, and even hundreds, of chemicals at a time.

What little regulating oversight that does exist for these chemicals uses the platform that chemicals are safe unless proven otherwise. This is one time when “innocent until proven guilty” is not a wise strategy.

Exposure to chemicals while pregnant and childhood is extremely damaging to health.

Unfortunately, over 300 chemicals is found in the umbilical cord blood of newborn babies. We are all “pre-contaminated.”

Simple measures, Big Payoff

Hence the cat is out of the bag. We are all subjected to countless potentially toxic chemicals from the day we are conceived to the day we die. There is some good news in this otherwise grim picture. Based on the PCP report1, several simple, but effective measures can significantly reduce our contact with synthetic chemicals along with other environmental hazards.

Whenever possible, eat foods grown without fertilizers, pesticides, and growth hormones the vast majority of time.

Store drinking water in stainless steel or bisphenol-A (BPA) free containers.

Microwave foods only in ceramic or glass containers, not plastic. Do not put very hot foods into plastic containers.

Choose foods, home and garden products, and toys in a way that minimizes your child’s exposure to potentially toxic substances.

Filter your drinking water. Use bottled water only if tap water is known to be contaminated with substances or microbes that are not filtered out.

Avoid secondhand tobacco smoke in the home, car, restaurants, bars, stores, and other public places.

Avoid exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals and known or suspected carcinogens when planning to get pregnant and throughout pregnancy. This includes BPA, a known endocrine disruptor.

Properly get rid of household chemicals, paints, cleaning supplies and other materials.

Make informed decisions about products you purchase and use. Visit Household Products Database , a service of the National Institutes of Health, and the Environmental Working Group’s Health and Toxics Database . These resources offer an abundance of information to assist you to make healthier choices in your every day life.

When a job exposes you to chemicals, remove shoes before entering your house. Wash your work clothes separately from the family’s regular laundry to minimize kids’ exposure.

Check radon levels in the home. Radon is a naturally occurring, colorless, odorless gas that can accumulate in confined spaces, such as basements. Exposure to radon is the leading cause of lung cancer-related deaths in non-smokers.

Make certain your health care provider keeps accurate records of medical tests that may result in harmful exposures, such as radiation from x-rays or scans. If these records aren’t being kept, keep them yourself. With this information, you can make better decisions about the benefits and risks of medical tests.

Wear a headset when using a cell phone, text instead of calling, and keep calls brief.

Avoid ultraviolet light by applying sunscreen and proper sun-protective clothing. Never use tanning beds.

Conflict Dispute

Despite what appears a slam dunk on environmental hazards and cancer, this report is not without dispute. Michael Thun, MD, a respected physician and epidemiologist with the American Cancer Society points out that there is no doubt that environmental pollution is of profound importance to human health and the health of the planet. But he fears that the report may minimize the focus on other known, modifiable causes of cancer that currently offer the best opportunity for cancer prevention.2

The scientific evidence most solidly supports the major causes of cancer as being tobacco use, obesity, alcohol, infections, hormones, and sunlight. According to Thun, the report implies that pollutants are the major cause of cancer, but this is far from a settled issue.2

Go that one step further

The best approach is to hedge your bets in all areas of cancer and other disease prevention. It makes sense to take the precautions (detailed above) presented by the PCP. But it also makes a whole lot of sense to tackle the things we can control in our daily lives.

There is no doubt that obesity is a leading cause of cancer and other chronic diseases in this country. Make your body a priority and make sure you’re not among the two-thirds of Americans who are overweight and obese. Exercising regularly is another known cancer prevention technique, so lace up those sneakers and get moving. Always avoid tobacco in any form.

And don’t forget about food. Simply put, the right foods can be used to your advantage to “cancer-proof” and disease-proof your lifestyle. Plant foods are your ticket to detoxifying from a toxic lifestyle. By plant foods I mean the vegetables, fruit, whole grains, beans, peas, nuts and seeds free from toxins/pesticides. From antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, to the nutrients known to aid with detoxification, plant foods are a must.

References

President’s Cancer Panel 2008-2009 Annual Report. Reducing Environmental Cancer Risk. What We Can Do Now. Available at http://pcp.cancer.gov/. Accessed May 24, 2010.
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To get the best natural/organic fruits/vegetables, probiotics, necessary enzymes that have NOT been processed with high heat (uses a very special proprietary insta-fresh process), visit Nuriche at http://www.mynuriche.com/connieclark to learn more.

Nelson R. President’s Cancer Panel: Environmental Cancer Risk Underestimated. Medscape Oncology. Accessed June 1, 2010. Available at: http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/721766.

Essante Worldwide is a longtime company that provides very good, safer products for our home and our personal care. Visit http://www.essanteworldwide.com/optforsuccess to learn more and get your household cleaners and personal care products.

And I would so remiss if I didn’t tell you one of the very best ways to eliminate toxins/pesticides/heavy metals/poisons from your body on an ongoing basis. I’ve said it before but it bears repeating….utilize a glutathione accelerator to keep your body functioning in the most healthful way possible. Visit MaxGXL to learn what you need to know in order to optimize and safeguard your health.

Warmly,
Connie Clark
303-770-3180