Gluten and Allergen Free Expo

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Over the last few years, the gluten free craze has become widely talked about and even has its’ own section in many supermarkets. It is a lifestyle for those discovering and being diagnosed with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity and those who choose to eat gluten free foods because of personal beliefs regarding their health. The Paleo diet craze also has  many health and fitness enthusiasts learning of the effects of wheat and grain on the body. Whatever the reason for giving up grains and wheat may be, this awareness has caused many people to seek out alternative foods. I wanted to share a link to the Gluten and Allergen Free Expo that will be taking place throughout American cities. I urge anyone who has food allergies or those wanting to increase their knowledge on eating special diets to attend. The expo  will have a variety of the latest product vendors as well as seminars and cooking demonstrations.  There are now many more alternative food products available for people with food allergies. The expo is open to the public and tickets are only $20.00.

Buy tickets and get more information on the Gluten and Allergen Free Expo here!

 

 

Juicing to Thrive

 

 Since I received my Breville juicer for Christmas two years ago,  juicing has become a staple in my diet. I no longer buy packaged juice from the grocery store or the highly overpriced juicer replica juices that claim to have many fruits and veggies in just one bottle. I’m sure they do, I just prefer my juice to be as fresh as possible to ensure the highest nutrient content. I also love that I can control what I add to my juice. I currently add fresh ginger and sneak in my daily apple cider vinegar in my juice.

Much of the juice manufactured today is pasteurized, destroying key nutrients. Some have preservatives in them and added sugars. Also, the juice you’re buying isn’t always what you are getting. I have noticed some juices will add pear or apple to them to “bulk” it up but keep the price down. 100% blueberry or acai juice can be very expensive.

If you are considering adding fresh juice to your diet or want to learn more about the benefits of juicing, I recommend watching the Documentary “Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead” by Joe Cross.  It is a really great movie to watch to get pumped up about eating healthy and being active. It also shines a light on the foods we eat in the typical American household.

Here is a link to Joe Cross’s website

Just a few benefits of juicing:

. Allows you to absorb optimal nutrients in a small amount

. Weight loss

. Skin clearing. Good for eczema or roseacea

. Better energy levels

. Improved concentration

. Weight loss

. Improved immune function

All Fats Are Not Created Equal

In my previous article, I wrote about Canola oil and the possible health risks associated with it. I recently came across a great article I would like to share that dives a little deeper into the topic of unhealthy processed oils. This article suggests avoiding all refined oils and instead choosing virgin oils and raw butters whenever possible.
Below are some oils recommended to substitute for processed oils:

.Coconut oil
.Virgin olive oil
.Grass-fed raw butter
.Grass- fed clarified butter (ghee)

Here is the article from Bodyecology.com

Canola: Dangerous Oil in Disguise

  

What is it? Canola oil is derived from the rape seed, a plant belonging to the mustard seed family. It is a processed oil. Canola oil is a genetically modified substance. I am even skeptical of organic canola oil.

What is it used for? Canola oil is widely used for cooking, baking, and deep frying. In restaurants, vegetarian and vegan dishes are often fried in canola oil instead of beef fat/oil. Many non-vegans even opt to have their food fried in canola oil and request it in restaurants. Because of beef fats negative connotation, they believe canola oil is a healthier choice. It is made from a plant so it must be healthy for me right? Wrong. Canola oil is also further processed using hydrogenation to make packaged foods like cookies, crackers, and cereals. So it goes from a potentially harmful processed oil to an already-known-to-be-harmful trans-fat!

What are the negative effects?  Many have argued that canola oil is rich in omega fatty acids 3,6, and 9, and is low in saturated fat. While this may be true, it is like saying that Kool-aid is a super food because it contains vitamin C. The possible negative effects and health risks far outweigh any benefits. And the few benefits it does offer can be obtained from a healthier oil without the added risks, like olive oil. The problem is, canola oil’s health repercussions seem to take years to pop up. It is a cumulative effect through years of consuming the oil. The other problem is that it is in so many of the foods we eat today, so it is difficult to avoid.

Some possible side effects of Canola oil:

. Depleted Vitamin E absorption

. Growth retardation

. Tremors

. Slurred speech

. Memory loss, confusion

. Heart problems

. Nervousness

. Lowered immune system response

.  Obesity?(GASP!) Could there be any correlation with the fact that McDonald’s now fries their french fries in a canola oil blend?!? They used to use beef fat. As I mentioned earlier, canola oil just sounds healthier to the public. So why are they fatter (and sicker) than ever?

And these are just to name a few.

I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to take my chances.  It may take years, if ever, for genetically modified foods to be illegal in the U.S. I have seen all the evidence I need to avoid these foods. There will always be a new scientist working on behalf of Monsanto to disprove the claims against GE foods and man made oils. Make up your own mind and educate yourself. Empowerment is the best way to take a stand, starting at the grocery store.