Is Grassfed Beef Every Grainfed? I Say it Can Be.

True grassfed beef only eats grass. But I have a twist to this true grassfed beef.

Marcus Guiliano is the chef & owner of Aroma Thyme Bistro located in the bountiful Hudson Valley of New York. Chef Guiliano has been an advocate for over 10 years on healthy, sustainable, local & real food. He found his mission in cooking when he reversed over a handful of medical conditions including 28 years of asthma. For more information visit http://www.chefonamission.com.

Aroma Thyme is know for their "stealth health"(Zagat). The Bistro has an award-winning wine list from Wine Spectator Magazine and over 200 beers. Aroma Thyme is certified green by The Green Restaurant Association.
Support Hudson Valley Restaurants.

My Central Channel:
http://www.MarcusG.tv

My facebook
http://www.facebook.com/AromaThymeBistro

Twitter for my restaurant:
http://twitter.com/Aroma_Thyme

My personal Twitter:
http://twitter.com/healthychefdude

My Restaurant website:
http://www.aromathymebistro.com/

My restaurant YouTube channel:
http://www.youtube.com/user/AromaThyme

Coconut Sugar is Becomg Popular | Best Sugar Choices

I love to use coconut sugar vs any other dry sweetener. There is no stripping, no bleaching, no additives an all of the minerals are left intact. It is made from the sap of coconut blossoms.


Marcus Guiliano is the chef & owner of Aroma Thyme Bistro located in the bountiful Hudson Valley of New York. Chef Guiliano has been an advocate for over 10 years on healthy, sustainable, local & real food. He found his mission in cooking when he reversed over a handful of medical conditions including 28 years of asthma. For more information visit http://www.chefonamission.com.
Aroma Thyme is know for their "stealth health"(Zagat). The Bistro has an award-winning wine list from Wine Spectator Magazine and over 200 beers. Aroma Thyme is certified green by The Green Restaurant Association.
Support Hudson Valley Restaurants.

My Central Channel:
http://www.MarcusG.tv

My facebook
http://www.facebook.com/AromaThymeBistro

Twitter for my restaurant:
http://twitter.com/Aroma_Thyme

My personal Twitter:
http://twitter.com/healthychefdude

My Restaurant website:
http://www.aromathymebistro.com/

My restaurant YouTube channel:
http://www.youtube.com/user/AromaThyme

How Much More Will You Pay For Healthy Food ?

Most American's know eating healthy is important, but they are not hip paying for health. How much or far will you go for health?

Marcus Guiliano is the chef & owner of Aroma Thyme Bistro located in the bountiful Hudson Valley of New York. Chef Guiliano has been an advocate for over 10 years on healthy, sustainable, local & real food. He found his mission in cooking when he reversed over a handful of medical conditions including 28 years of asthma. For more information visit http://www.chefonamission.com.
Aroma Thyme is know for their "stealth health"(Zagat). The Bistro has an award-winning wine list from Wine Spectator Magazine and over 200 beers. Aroma Thyme is certified green by The Green Restaurant Association.
Support Hudson Valley Restaurants.

My Central Channel:
http://www.MarcusG.tv

My facebook
http://www.facebook.com/AromaThymeBistro

Twitter for my restaurant:
http://twitter.com/Aroma_Thyme

My personal Twitter:
http://twitter.com/healthychefdude

My Restaurant website:
http://www.aromathymebistro.com/

My restaurant YouTube channel:
http://www.youtube.com/user/AromaThyme

Magazines That are Scams. How Reputable Are Stories You Read

I am calling out a couple of local magazines that have out right demanded I pay for ads or they won't write about me.

Marcus Guiliano is the chef & owner of Aroma Thyme Bistro located in the bountiful Hudson Valley of New York. Chef Guiliano has been an advocate for over 10 years on healthy, sustainable, local & real food. He found his mission in cooking when he reversed over a handful of medical conditions including 28 years of asthma. For more information visit http://www.chefonamission.com.
Aroma Thyme is know for their "stealth health"(Zagat). The Bistro has an award-winning wine list from Wine Spectator Magazine and over 200 beers. Aroma Thyme is certified green by The Green Restaurant Association.
Support Hudson Valley Restaurants.

My Central Channel:
http://www.MarcusG.tv

My facebook
http://www.facebook.com/AromaThymeBistro

Twitter for my restaurant:
http://twitter.com/Aroma_Thyme

My personal Twitter:
http://twitter.com/healthychefdude

My Restaurant website:
http://www.aromathymebistro.com/

My restaurant YouTube channel:
http://www.youtube.com/user/AromaThyme

Applying to The Greenbrier Resort

I had my heart set on working at the Greenbrier for a couple of years. I was originally told no. So how did I get a personal phone call from the Executive Chef?

Marcus Guiliano is the chef & owner of Aroma Thyme Bistro located in the bountiful Hudson Valley of New York. Chef Guiliano has been an advocate for over 10 years on healthy, sustainable, local & real food. He found his mission in cooking when he reversed over a handful of medical conditions including 28 years of asthma. For more information visit http://www.chefonamission.com.
Aroma Thyme is know for their "stealth health"(Zagat). The Bistro has an award-winning wine list from Wine Spectator Magazine and over 200 beers. Aroma Thyme is certified green by The Green Restaurant Association.
Support Hudson Valley Restaurants.

My Central Channel:
http://www.MarcusG.tv

My facebook
http://www.facebook.com/AromaThymeBistro

Twitter for my restaurant:
http://twitter.com/Aroma_Thyme

My personal Twitter:
http://twitter.com/healthychefdude

My Restaurant website:
http://www.aromathymebistro.com/

My restaurant YouTube channel:
http://www.youtube.com/user/AromaThyme

First Day Back & They Want Me to Serve Bad Fish!

I love this resort and the actions of my immediate supervisor that night do not reflect their mission. Any operation can have a bad employee here and there.

If you are chef what would you have done. How about a customer, what would you expect?

Marcus Guiliano is the chef & owner of Aroma Thyme Bistro located in the bountiful Hudson Valley of New York. Chef Guiliano has been an advocate for over 10 years on healthy, sustainable, local & real food. He found his mission in cooking when he reversed over a handful of medical conditions including 28 years of asthma. For more information visit http://www.chefonamission.com.
Aroma Thyme is know for their "stealth health"(Zagat). The Bistro has an award-winning wine list from Wine Spectator Magazine and over 200 beers. Aroma Thyme is certified green by The Green Restaurant Association.
Support Hudson Valley Restaurants.

My Central Channel:
http://www.MarcusG.tv

My facebook
http://www.facebook.com/AromaThymeBistro

Twitter for my restaurant:
http://twitter.com/Aroma_Thyme

My personal Twitter:
http://twitter.com/healthychefdude

My Restaurant website:
http://www.aromathymebistro.com/

My restaurant YouTube channel:
http://www.youtube.com/user/AromaThyme

Picking the Best Feta Cheese | Chef Marcus Guiliano

What are the main differences in Feta to Chef Marcus Guiliano. He Tells how he begins to buy Feta or what you can do to get better Feta.

Marcus Guiliano is the chef & owner of Aroma Thyme Bistro located in the bountiful Hudson Valley of New York. Chef Guiliano has been an advocate for over 10 years on healthy, sustainable, local & real food. He found his mission in cooking when he reversed over a handful of medical conditions including 28 years of asthma. For more information visit http://www.chefonamission.com.
Aroma Thyme is know for their "stealth health"(Zagat). The Bistro has an award-winning wine list from Wine Spectator Magazine and over 200 beers. Aroma Thyme is certified green by The Green Restaurant Association.

Support Hudson Valley Restaurants.

My Central Channel:
http://www.MarcusG.tv

My facebook
http://www.facebook.com/AromaThymeBistro

Twitter for my restaurant:
http://twitter.com/Aroma_Thyme

My personal Twitter:
http://twitter.com/healthychefdude

My Restaurant website:
http://www.aromathymebistro.com/

My restaurant YouTube channel:
http://www.youtube.com/user/AromaThyme

Health Benefits of Flax Seed

Flax Fights Cholesterol

The consumption of flaxseed is associated with a reduction in total cholesterol, including the LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides. Study after study has shown a positive response to eating ground flax seed daily. Eating low fat foods, increasing your exercise, limiting the salt, sugar and eating flax seed daily are a few ways that you can win the battle against high cholesterol.
Flax Fights Diabetes

Nutritionists are instructing their diabetic patients to eat flax daily. It has been discovered that the omega-3 fat and high fiber in flax may play a role in the fight against diabetes. In a study conducted by the University of Toronto, participants who ate flaxseed bread had blood sugar levels 28% lower an hour after eating than their counterparts who ate bread made with wheat flour!

Flax Fights Cancer

Flaxseed is high in lignans, up to 800 times the amount as in any tested plant food. Lignans (a phytoestrogen) have been called by H. Adlercreutz (in his article “Phytoestrogens: Epidemiology and a Possible Role in Cancer Protection”), natural cancer-protective compounds. Flax seed is also high in alpha linolenic acid (ALA) which has been found to be promising as a cancer fighting agent. The American National Cancer Institute has singled out flaxseed as one of six foods that deserve special study. Flax seed's high fiber aspect is also beneficial in the fight against colon cancer. Epidemiological studies note that diet plays a major role in the incidence of colon cancer. Research has shown that increasing the amount of fiber in your diet reduces your colon-cancer risk. Flax seed, high in fiber, lignans, alpha linolenic acid, is a key player in the fight against cancer, particularly breast and colon cancer.

Flax Fights Constipation

Flax is high in both soluble and insoluble fiber. One ounce of flax provides 32% of the USDA’s reference daily intake of fiber. Flax promotes regular bowel movements because it is high in insoluble fiber. Flaxseed's all natural fiber helps to absorb water, thereby softening the stool and allowing it to pass through the colon quickly. When adding fiber to your diet, it is important to make sure that you are drinking at least eight glasses of water daily. Without enough liquids, fiber can actually cause constipation! In the fight against constipation exercise, eat fruits and vegetables, drink eight glasses of water daily and add two to four tablespoons of flax to your daily regime!
Flax Fights Inflammation

Flax is high in Omega 3 essential fatty acids. That’s good news for people who suffer from inflammatory disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis. Health experts, such as former Surgeon General C. Evertt Koop, recommend eating foods high in Omega 3’s for people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. It is the inflammation within the joints that cause so much of the pain associated with arthritis. The January 1996 issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reported that the participants in a study that took flax oil daily reduced inflammatory responses by as much as 30%.
Flax Fights Menopausal Symptoms

Hot flashes, night sweats, irritability, moodiness…ah, the joys of menopause. Can flax really help? Yes it can! Flax, like soy, is a phytoestrogen. Phytoestrogens are estrogen-like substances that are found in plants. Flax is the richest known plant source of phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens act as a natural hormone therapy and help to stabilize hormonal levels. This stabilization of hormonal levels helps to lesson the symptoms of menopause.

Flax fights Heart Disease

Heart disease, the number one killer in America, has claimed the lives of too many of our family and friends. Years of a sedentary lifestyle, super size meals and processed foods has finally caught up with us. Can flax help? Yes it can. Numerous studies have been done on the effect of flax on heart disease, yielding many positive findings. Flax has been found to help reduce total cholesterol, LDL levels (the bad cholesterol), triglycerides. Flax helps to reduce clotting time and thereby reduces the chance for heart attacks and strokes. Regular intake of flax protects against arrhythmias and helps keep the arteries clear and pliable!

Flax and the Immune System

Across the table, your co-worker sneezes, no tissue in sight, you feel a light spray hit your face and shudder. Standing in a crowded elevator, in a busy mall, or in an airplane, you sometimes feel like you can’t escape getting at least one or two colds each year…or can you? Research has found that eating flax daily favorably affects immunity, the body’s ability to defend itself successfully against bacteria and viruses. Two components of flax, lignans and ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), have been found to affect immune cells and compounds that control immune reaction.

Flax fights “The Blues”

It’s that tired feeling that a good night's rest won’t shake… that listless down in the dumps feeling that you just can’t get rid of. We call it “the blues”, otherwise known as atypical depression, the most common form of depression. Preliminary research suggests that eating a diet rich in flax could slash your risk of ever feeling “down in the dumps”. Follow up studies show that just 2-3 tablespoons of flax daily can help up to 2/3rds of severely depressed women bounce back within eight weeks. Flax, says Udo Erasmus, PhD, has a mood boosting ingredient: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) that is essential for the proper function of brain cells, yet up to 85% of women aren’t getting enough of it. Early research conducted by Dr. Martha Clare Morris of Chicago’s Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center notes that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids is believed to be important for brain development. She stated that some participants in the study saw a decreased risk of Alzheimer’s from eating a diet high in Omege-3 fatty acids(Flax is the richest source of Omega 3’s in the plant kingdom). More research is needed in the area of flax and its relation to depression and brain function, however preliminary research is very promising.

Source:http://www.flaxhealth.com/howflaxhelps.htm

Benefits of Flax seed in Heart Disease and Cholesterol Lowering

Its high content of alpha linolenic acids (ALA) has made the ancient flax seed become our modern miracle food. Along with chia seeds, flax seeds top the ALA scale chart, providing about 1. 7 grams of ALA per tablespoon. Early studies found that flax seeds may aid lowering total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels. They may also keep platelets from becoming sticky therefore reducing the risk of a heart attack.

Other Benefits of Flax seeds

Aside from alpha linolenic acid, flax seed is rich in lignan. Lignan is a type phytoestrogen (antioxidant) and also provides fiber. Researches revealed that lignan in flax seed shows a lot of promise in fighting disease -- including a possible role in cancer prevention especially breast cancer. It is thought that lignan metabolites can bind to estrogen receptors, hence inhibiting the onset of estrogen-stimulated breast cancer.

Recent studies also showed positive benefits of flax seed oil in IBD (Crohn's Disease and Colitis). Flax seed oil seems to be able to heal the inner lining of the inflamed intestines.
Flax Seed Oil is Not the Same as Flax Seeds

Flax seed oil is not the same as flax seeds. Flax seed oil is a concentrated source of ALA, which has been questioned for its potential association of increasing prostate cancer risk. Include flax seeds in your diet instead.
Not all Omega 3 is The Same!

If you are recommended by your doctor to take an omega-3 supplement, make sure to purchase those derived from marine source. ALA found in flax seeds is a type of plant-based omega 3 fatty acid, slightly different from the marine-based omega 3, like DHA. Most of the studies that have shown heart health benefits of omega 3 refer to the marine-based DHA and EPA. Few studies, however, have looked into the health effects of plant-based ALA.

More Flax Seeds in Your Diet

Moderately include flax seed in your diet. Indeed, a lot of food products now contain flax seeds such as bread, cereal and bakery goods. Bakers may use flax seed flour or include flax seed in baking.
    Other ways to include flax seeds in home cooking

    * Sprinkle ground flax seeds on your cereal and salads.
    * Substitute flax seed mixture for eggs in home baking such as muffin and pancake (1 tbsp milled flax seed, plus 3 tbsp water = 1 egg). Final products will have less volume and taste gummier.
    * Include flax seeds, whole or ground, in other recipes when nutty flavor is preferred.

Source:http://www.healthcastle.com/flax.shtml

3-Flax Seed Benefits for Heart Disease Patients

Flax is cultivated both for seed as well as for fiber. Different portions of the plant have been utilized to produce fabric, medicines, paper, dye, fishing nets in addition to soap. A vegetable oil known as linseed oil or flaxseed oil is produced by the seeds.

Flax seeds are somewhat bigger than sesame seeds and contain a rigid shell that is smooth and glossy. Their color varies from deep amber to reddish brown conditional on whether the flax is of the golden or brown type. While whole flaxseeds include a soft crunch, the nutrients in grounded seeds are more effortlessly assimilated.
Health advantages

    * There are numerous health advantages to be achieved when eating flax seed as part of a healthy diet.
    * A large number of individuals are preferring to incorporate flax seed in their diet due to its role in combating health conditions for example diabetes, cancer, menopause and arthritis.
    * Possibly the most remarkable of these health advantages is the role of flax seed in effectively combating heart disease.

Flax seed has excessive quantities of the essential fatty acid Alpha-Linolenic Acid or ALA. Essential fatty acids are necessary for human health but cannot be produced by the body and ought to be acquired from food. ALA fits in to a cluster of fatty acids referred to as omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are normally obtained from fatty fish such as salmon. Omega-3 fatty acids help the heart by presenting some level of defense against coronary heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids are as well vital since they are building blocks of human cell membranes and they play a vital part in a number of functions inside the body. Omega-3 fatty acids also aid in diminishing inflammation.

Flax seed and flax seed oil have been revealed to assist increase HDL-cholesterol or the "good" cholesterol while reducing LDL-cholesterol or the Bad cholesterol levels. Other advantages demonstrate that flax seed may as well assist in reducing blood triglyceride and blood pressure. It may in addition keep platelets from turning out to be sticky hence diminishing the possibility of a heart attack

Flax seed is principally a good source of lignans. Lignan is a kind of antioxidant obtained from a diversity of plants. These potent antioxidants work all over the human body to eliminate free radicals. Free radicals can harm tissue and are considered to play a part in the pathology of numerous ailments. Lignans also make available an excellent source of fiber.

Since the external hull of the flax seed is exceedingly hard to digest, it is usually suggested that one should crush or mill the whole flax seed to obtain the maximum nutritional advantage. Flax seed can be crushed with a reasonably priced coffee grinder or obtained pre-ground or milled. Flax seed is recognizable by the nutty flavor it imparts to a range of dishes. The seeds can be supplemented with almost every food

Source:http://www.tophealthydiets.com/benefits-of-food-items/benefits-of-flax-seed.php

Flax Seed: The Low Carb Whole Grain

It may be tiny, but it’s mighty: The flax seed carries one of the biggest nutrient payloads on the planet. And while it’s not technically a grain, it has a similar vitamin and mineral profile to grains, while the amount of fiber, antioxidants, and Omega-3 fatty acids in flax leaves grains in the dust.

Additionally, flax seed is very low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for people who limit their intake of starches and sugars. And its combination of healthy fat and high fiber content make it a great food for weight loss and maintenance -- many dieters have found that flax seed has been a key to keeping them feeling satisfied.
Flax Seed Nutrition
Yes, flax seed is high in most of the B vitamins, magnesium, and manganese, but this little seed is just getting started. There are three additional nutrient groups which flax seed has in abundance, and each has many benefits.

Flax Seed is Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are a key force against inflammation in our bodies. Mounting evidence shows that inflammation plays a part in many chronic diseases including heart disease, arthritis, asthma, diabetes, and even some cancers. This inflammation is enhanced by having too little Omega-3 intake (such as in fish, flax, and walnuts), especially in relation to Omega-6 fatty acid intake (in oils such as soy and corn oil). In the quest to equalize the ratio of these two kinds of oils, flax seed can be a real help.

Most of the oil in flax seeds is alpha linolenic acid (ALA). ALA is an Omega-3 that is a precursor to the fatty acids found in salmon and other fatty cold-water fish (called EPA and DHA). Because not everyone is able to easily convert ALA into EPA and (especially) DHA, it is best not to rely solely on flax for your Omega-3 intake. However, ALA also has good effects of its own, and definitely helps in the Omega 3/6 balance.

Flax Seed is High in Fiber: You’d be hard-pressed to find a food higher in fiber -- both soluble and insoluble -- than flax. This fiber is probably mainly responsible for the cholesterol-lowering effects of flax. Fiber in the diet also helps stabilize blood sugar, and, of course, promotes proper functioning of the intestines.



Flax Seed is High in Phytochemicals: Flax seed is high in phytochemicals, including many antioxidants. It is perhaps our best source of lignans, which convert in our intestines to substances that tend to balance female hormones. There is evidence that lignans may promote fertility, reduce peri-menopausal symptoms, and possibly help prevent breast cancer. In addition, lignans may help prevent Type 2 diabetes.

Note that a) flax seeds need to be ground to make the nutrients available (otherwise they just “pass through”) and b) flax seed oil alone contains neither the fiber nor the phytochemicals of whole flax seed meal.

Source:http://lowcarbdiets.about.com/od/whattoeat/a/flaxinfo.htm

Counting Many Benefits of Flaxseed

Flax seed, also known as linseed, is noted to have high nutritional value, making it a priority choice of food for health conscious people. Flax seed has the natural properties of fiber, lignans and omega-3 fatty acids that provide preventative and restorative abilities to your diet. There are two types of flax seed. One type is grown for the seed use and considered an oil seed variety. The other is grown specifically for fiber production to be utilized in the texture industry.

Even though flax seed has been around since the dawn of civilization, it is more recently that mainstream society is beginning to understand its relevance to a healthy life. Nutritionists, physicians, and health conscious individuals are quickly becoming passionate about the health benefits of flax seed.

The health benefits of Flaxseed are as follows.

    *Richest source of omega fatty acids and lignans (potent cancer fighters) known in nature. The immune-enhancing omega fatty acids 3, 6, and 9 are balanced in the combination your body requires for optimal health. Also loaded with vitamins and phytonutrients, and an excellent source of protein and fiber, flaxseed is nature's gift to health!

    *Provides improved Immune Function- Immunity is the body's ability to defend itself successfully against foreign substances. The alpha linolenic acid, as well as the lignans, decreases inflammation and promotes healthy functioning of the immune system. Flax seed may be useful to manage autoimmune and inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and lupus.

    *Weight Management - research indicates that including flaxseed in your daily diet can help you manage your weight. Besides stabilizing your sugar levels, flax expands five times in bulk when ingested. Flax taken half an hour before meals will help you eat less, so you will lose weight while simultaneously strengthening your immune system.

    *Affect on Hormone Levels - Flax seed, with its high concentration of lignans, is a great choice for all women, whether younger, middle-aged, or older, as a natural way to normalize the menstrual cycle, manage menopause, and lower the risk of osteoporosis, cancer and heart disease. Intake of flaxseed on a daily basis results in hormonal changes that are beneficial to women of all ages. In menstruating women who consumed 10 grams (about 2 teaspoons) of flax seed on a daily basis, significant hormonal changes have resulted. These changes are similar to those seen after consumption of soy isoflavones. Positive effects included fewer cycle changes, along with a reduction in ovarian disfunction. This, in turn, may decrease the development of breast and other cancers. As women reach menopause, the level of estrogens in their body decreases. This not only gives rise to menopausal symptoms, but also increases the risk of disease, including cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. In post-menopausal women the protective effects of lignans is due primarily to their estrogenic activity. Lignans have even been proposed as an alternative to hormone-replacement therapy in post-menopausal women.

        Adding just 1/8-1/4 cup of flaxseed to your daily diet can help reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and assists with healthy weight management.

    *Protection against bone loss - Daily dietary intake of flaxseed offers protection against bone loss, may increase bone density, and reduces the risk of osteoporosis.

    *Flax seeds have Anti-cancer Effects - Extensive studies on both breast and colon cancer indicate that flax seed may play an important role in cancer treatment, as well as prevention. A breast cancer prevention program done at the Princess Margaret Hospital and the Toronto Hospital, involving 50 women diagnosed with breast cancer revealed that- while waiting for surgery, half of the women received muffins containing 25 grams of milled flax seed daily while the other half received ordinary muffins. The women who received the flax seed muffins had slower-growing tumours compared to the other group.

    *Flax seeds help Reduce the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease - It aids in decreasing the so-called "bad" cholesterol. Increase the "good" cholesterol, decrease blood pressure, suppresse the development of atherosclerosis and inflammation, and enhances blood vessel tone. Researchers at the University of Toronto found that total blood cholesterol levels dropped by 9% and LDL ("bad" cholesterol) decreased by 18% when a group of nine healthy women added flax seeds to their regular diets. The women ate 50 grams of milled flax seed a day for four weeks



    *Seed for Fiber - The benefits of flaxseed in its whole seed form far surpass those of flax oil because freshly ground seed includes the fiber content that is so vital to maintaining digestive health. The insoluble fibre in flax seed is helpful in regulating bowel movements, increasing the frequency of bowel movements, and preventing or treating bowel irregularities and constipation. Soluble fibre is helpful in lowering blood cholesterol levels as well as lowering blood sugar levels (important for people suffereing from diabetes).

    *Flavor enhancer - The light, nutty taste of flax seed enhances the flavour of food, and adds nutritional value to your diet. Flax seed may be eaten on its own, sprinkled on cereal, popcorn, and salads, or added to oatmeal, yogurt, and blender drinks. Adding flax seed to baked goods adds flavour, extra texture, and good nutrition. Milled flax seed may be baked into a variety of products including breads, pancakes, bagels, muffins, and cookies.

    *Look for a brand that has been certified organic - If you opt for oil or capsules, make sure the oil is expeller-pressed (also called "cold-pressed"). Expeller-pressed seeds produce the highest-quality flax oils. But most importantly, look for the lignans. Milled flax is by far your best source of lignans, but if you prefer oil or capsules, the bottle should state "with lignans" clearly on the label.
a
Above are the reasons why Flax seed is gaining popularity among health and nutrition experts as well as consumers. Start adding them to your diet, to derive better health.

Source:http://www.womenfitness.net/benefits-flaxseed.htm

Turn back the biological clock with Flax Seeds and Flax Oil!

By Rashmie Jaaju

Flax is nature’s miraculous cure for our heart, blood, joints, colon, aging, brain and even peace of mind!

It was during my pregnancy (4+ years back) that I started reading and researching on natural food, cures supplements, herbs, lifestyle, therapies and more. And I continue to do so till date. Infact, now it’s become a mission for me.

Among all natural food and cures that I have studied so far, one that is discovered to be nature’s most miraculous and versatile medicines is Flax seeds (*Hindi – Alsi).

I can’t write enough about the nutritional benefits of Flax seeds and oil. As this food is being rediscovered the world over, Nutritionists rank it among the top 10 health foods.

Flax seeds are the richest source of oil containing Omega 3 fatty acids - that extraordinary component, the deficiency of which may lead our body to cripple and collapse. “Flax seeds also contain over a hundred times more of a phytonutrient, known as lignan, than wheat bran, buckwheat, rye, millet, oats, and soybeans. Lignins have received a lot of attention lately because of possible anti-cancer properties” – Dr. Sears

Here is a long list (trying hard to present in a nutshell!) of health benefits from Flax.

Boosts Immunity: With, H1N1 scare dictating our lifestyle and affecting mental peace, boosting the immune system has become a top priority. Studies have shown that school children who are given about 1 teaspoon of flax oil a day had fewer and less severe instances of respiratory infections (linked to swine flue) than those who were not supplemented with flax oil.

Healthy Brain Development: This is very important in the first few years of life when a child’s brain grows at a rapid pace and even more so – during the fetus stage and infancy. The Omega 3 fatty acids in flax are key to brain building. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, mothers should supplement their diet with 2 teaspoons of flax oil, if not more, to provide the essential fats to the growing baby.

Heart Friendly: The Omega 3 fatty acids in Flax reduce bad cholesterol improving heart health. Also help in regulating blood pressure.

Healthy Skin and Lustrous Hair: The healthy oils in Flax are beneficial for people who have dry or sensitive skin and are prone to sun burns. Flax is also helpful in reducing dandruff.

Helps in Joint Pain and Osteoarthritis: Flax and Cod liver oil, the richest source of omega-3 fats, have been shown to reduce the pain and inflammation of arthritis.

Helpful in Diabetes: Flax may lessen the severity of diabetes by stabilizing blood-sugar levels.

Cure for Post Partum Depression and Hormone Regulation: The lack of essential fatty acids in pregnant women might be a cause of postpartum depression, say experts. Flax can be a cure for this. It also helps normalize hormones during menopause and premenstrual phase.

Cancer Preventive and Healing Properties: Flax seed oil is rich in Lignan, so consuming it can help prevent the occurrence of breast cancer, colon cancer or any other type of cancer.

Stress Releaser: As a result of our processed-food-rich diets, we’re consuming large amounts of omega-6 fatty acids and little or zero omega-3 fatty acids, which is a recipe for feeling “stressed out”, says Dr. James Boschman based on his years of research. The essential fatty acids in Flax have calming effect on us releasing stress.

Great for Weight Watchers: Large amount of soluble fibre in flax slows the release of carbohydrates into the bloodstream, helping control insulin levels and prolong energy. Soluble fibre, when consumed, satisfies hunger pangs by giving a sense of fullness. For this reason, people who are trying to lose weight should increase their consumption of soluble fibre. When I work late nights, I would rather reach out for the box of ground flax seeds than cookies or chocolates..!

Helps in Constipation: Soluble fibre in Flax acts as an excellent laxative.

Overall Health: The Omega 3 fatty acids have shown to improve high blood pressure, autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis, allergies and inflammation, eczema, psoriasis, and many others as per health experts.



Using Flax Seeds and OIL – Dos and Don’ts

Flax oil should not be used for cooking as it is very heat sensitive and is rather harmful when heated. Flax oil or ground flax can be added to food after cooking.

Flax also turns rancid very quickly. Hence, flax oil and seeds should always be refrigerated with the lid tightly on. Should not be exposed to heat or light. When purchasing, look for refrigerated oil stored in dark colored bottles.

Flax seeds, because they contain high amount of soluble fibre, are more beneficial than their oil. Hence, it’s worth the effort to grind fresh flax seeds. They can be grounded coarsely rather than a very powdery form.

Preparation and serving:
Flax seeds have a yummy nutty flavor. Ground flax seeds can be sprinkled on salads, cereals with cold milk, buttered bread along with jam, in smoothies (soak the flax seeds and blend with any fruit and water/milk).

But, never use it in cake batter, roti/tortilla dough etc because flax loses its nutritional value when exposed to heat (when making rotis over heat).

Flax oil taken with a meal can actually increase the nutritional value of other foods. Mixing flax oil with yogurt helps to emulsify the oil, improving its digestion and metabolism by the body.

So, have Flax, stay fit and turn the life’s clock backward!

Source:http://blog.gorgeouskarma.com/naturalhealth/turn-back-the-biological-clock-with-flax-seeds-and-flax-oil/

Uses and benefits of Flax

Flax seeds contain high levels of dietary fiber including lignans, an abundance of micronutrients and omega-3 fatty acids. Flax seeds may lower cholesterol levels, especially in women. Initial studies suggest that flax seeds taken in the diet may benefit individuals with certain types of breast and prostate cancers.

It may stunt the growth of prostate tumors, although a meta-analysis found the evidence on this point to be inconclusive. Flax may also lessen the severity of diabetes by stabilizing blood-sugar levels. There is some support for the use of flax seed as a laxative due to its dietary fiber content though excessive consumption without liquid can result in intestinal blockage. Consuming large amounts of flax seed may impair the effectiveness of certain oral medications, due to its fiber content, and may have adverse effects due to its content of neurotoxic cyanogen glycosides and immunosuppressive cyclic nonapeptides.




Flaxseed oil has been shown to be useful in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, behavioral problems such as attention deficit disorder, depression, and bipolar disorder in adults and children. Omega-3 fats are also important in modifying the body’s inflammatory response, making them very helpful in the treatment of inflammatory diseases like allergies, asthma, arthritis and eczema4,5. Studies have shown that omega 3 fats can lower blood pressure, “bad” cholesterol, and triglycerides by as much as 25% and 65%6,7. It’s impact on the number one killer in our country, heart disease, might be it’s most exciting health benefit.

Source:http://www.bitterrootrestoration.com/health-care/uses-and-benefits-of-flax.html

10 Benefits of Flaxseeds and Flaxseed Oil

Flaxseeds and flaxseed oil are popular among vegans and vegetarians who want a non-animal source of Omega-3 fatty acids. However, everyone can benefit from adding flaxseeds into their diet. While flaxseed oil contains higher levels of Omega-3 than the seeds, the seeds actually have many more benefits than just the oil. Here are 10 health benefits of flaxseeds and flaxseed oil.

1. Flaxseeds are a a great source of fiber and work as a natural laxative. They are a great way to keep things regular.

2. Flaxseed oil contains concentrated amounts of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fat. Vegetarians and vegans often use this as a substitute for fish oil, although there are differing opinions over whether the Omega-3 in flaxseed oil is as beneficial as that in fish oil.

3. Ground flaxseed has been shown to work just as well as statins in lowering cholesterol.

4. Flaxseeds are a good source of magnesium.

5. Flaxseeds contain high levels of lignans. Lignans may protect against estrogen-dependents cancers such as breast cancer.

6. An ounce of ground flaxseed per day was shown to regulate estrogen levels in post-menopausal women.



7. Flaxseeds have been shown to protect post-menopausal women from heart disease.

8. Flaxseed decreases insulin resistance and may protect against diabetes.

9. Preliminary research in mice shows that flaxseeds may prevent or slow the spread of prostate cancer.

10. Studies in mice show that flaxseed may prevent or slow the spread of melanoma.

Source:http://www.healthdiaries.com/eatthis/10-benefits-of-flaxseeds-and-flaxseed-oil.html

Flax Seed Benefits for Heart Disease Patients

Flax is cultivated both for seed as well as for fiber. Different portions of the plant have been utilized to produce fabric, medicines, paper, dye, fishing nets in addition to soap. A vegetable oil known as linseed oil or flaxseed oil is produced by the seeds.

Flax seeds are somewhat bigger than sesame seeds and contain a rigid shell that is smooth and glossy. Their color varies from deep amber to reddish brown conditional on whether the flax is of the golden or brown type. While whole flaxseeds include a soft crunch, the nutrients in grounded seeds are more effortlessly assimilated.
Health advantages

    * There are numerous health advantages to be achieved when eating flax seed as part of a healthy diet.
    * A large number of individuals are preferring to incorporate flax seed in their diet due to its role in combating health conditions for example diabetes, cancer, menopause and arthritis.
    * Possibly the most remarkable of these health advantages is the role of flax seed in effectively combating heart disease.

Flax seed has excessive quantities of the essential fatty acid Alpha-Linolenic Acid or ALA. Essential fatty acids are necessary for human health but cannot be produced by the body and ought to be acquired from food. ALA fits in to a cluster of fatty acids referred to as omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are normally obtained from fatty fish such as salmon. Omega-3 fatty acids help the heart by presenting some level of defense against coronary heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids are as well vital since they are building blocks of human cell membranes and they play a vital part in a number of functions inside the body. Omega-3 fatty acids also aid in diminishing inflammation.

Flax seed and flax seed oil have been revealed to assist increase HDL-cholesterol or the "good" cholesterol while reducing LDL-cholesterol or the Bad cholesterol levels. Other advantages demonstrate that flax seed may as well assist in reducing blood triglyceride and blood pressure. It may in addition keep platelets from turning out to be sticky hence diminishing the possibility of a heart attack.



Flax seed is principally a good source of lignans. Lignan is a kind of antioxidant obtained from a diversity of plants. These potent antioxidants work all over the human body to eliminate free radicals. Free radicals can harm tissue and are considered to play a part in the pathology of numerous ailments. Lignans also make available an excellent source of fiber.

Since the external hull of the flax seed is exceedingly hard to digest, it is usually suggested that one should crush or mill the whole flax seed to obtain the maximum nutritional advantage. Flax seed can be crushed with a reasonably priced coffee grinder or obtained pre-ground or milled. Flax seed is recognizable by the nutty flavor it imparts to a range of dishes. The seeds can be supplemented with almost every food


source:http://www.tophealthydiets.com/benefits-of-food-items/benefits-of-flax-seed.php

Natural Wonders: Flax Seed

Flax seeds: Tiny seeds, healthy indeed!

Flax seeds look similar to sesame seeds (til) but are slightly larger in size. They have a hard but smooth and shiny outer shell and their colour palette ranges from deep amber to reddish brown. The flavour is warm, earthy and subtly nutty.

While they are technically not a grain, their vitamin and mineral profile is even better than that of regular grains. Even the amount of fibre, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids in flax leaves the rest of the grain family much behind in quality and content.
Health benefits of flax seed:

    * Good source of Omega-3 fatty acids: Flax seeds are rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids which help in combating inflammation. Omega-3s are especially good for those suffering from hypertension, as it helps to regulate blood pressure.
    * Rich in multiple nutrients: High in nutrients such as vitamin B complex, magnesium and manganese. They also help to lower cholesterol.
    * Good for digestion: These seeds are full of fibre and hence act as a natural laxative
    * Anti carcinogenic properties: Flax seeds have high levels of lignans (plant chemicals with lots of health benefits) which help in protecting against breast and prostate cancer.
    * Protection against diabetes: Flax seeds are known to decrease insulin resistance and help in regulating blood sugar. The lignans in flax seed may actually help prevent diabetes.
    * Good for weight watchers: Flax seed is very low in carbohydrates, making it an ideal choice for people who limit their intake of sugar and starch. It’s also a delight for vegans and vegetarians as it is a non-animal source of omega-3 fatty acid and is often used as an egg substitute in baked products to add structure and body to the food.
    * Beneficial for women’s health: Research shows that flax seed is especially beneficial for women. It’s known to help women improve their chances of conceiving a baby. Flax seeds also helps to promote normal ovulation and in restoring hormonal balance. It’s also been known to protect postmenopausal women from cardiovascular disease.
    * Protection against dry eyes: The Omega-3 fatty acids in flax seed help to fend off dry eyes.



Tips for using flax seed

Ideally, flax seed should be consumed in the grounded form rather than as a whole seed or as its oil. Light grinding allows a better nutrient absorption (or else they will just “pass through”), while flax seed oil alone contains neither the fibre nor the phytochemicals (plant chemicals with disease fighting properties) of the seed itself.

Start slowly if you aren’t used to a high-fibre diet. Grind it coarsely and drink plenty of water along with the powder. You could have it with your cereals or hot and shakes and smoothies or even add it to homemade cookies, vegetables or salads.

To get maximum benefits, 2 tablespoons of ground flax is recommended per day.

Source:http://www.mdhil.com/natural-wonders-flax-seed/

Anti-GM salmon measure OK’d

 

The U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday voted to prohibit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration from approving genetically modified (GM) salmon for human consumption.

Introduced by Rep. Don Young, R-Alaska, the measure — which would ban the FDA from using funds in the approval of GM salmon — came as an amendment to an agriculture-spending bill. Young has been outspoken about his opposition of GM salmon since the FDA scientists last September preliminary determined that the GM salmon developed by Waltham, Mass., biotechnology firm AquaBounty Technologies, called AquAdvantage Salmon, is safe for human consumption. (An FDA advisory committee has since determined that more research is needed.)

Immediately after its preliminary approval, several lawmakers criticized the move, including Sen. Mark Begich (D-Alaska), who filed a bill that would ban GM salmon outright. The bill was co-sponsored by Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.). Alaska is one of the world’s largest wild salmon producers.

“Frankenfish is uncertain and unnecessary. Should it receive approval as an animal drug, it clears the path to introduce it into the food supply; my amendment cuts them off before they can get that far,” said Young, referring to GM salmon as “Frankenfish” in a press release.

“Any approval of genetically modified salmon could seriously threaten wild salmon populations as they grow twice as fast and require much more food,” he added. “Frankenfish is bad policy all around. I eat Alaskan wild salmon and I support Alaskan wild salmon and I will not allow these fake fish to affect our healthy stocks.”

The House is expected to pass the farm-spending bill later this week, but the Senate has not weighed in on the issue, according to the Associated Press.

Fish2Fork takes to France

Sustainable seafood is not yet a sourcing priority for French chefs, but the tide could be turning, suggests the findings of a new guide launched in France this week.

Questioning 76 restaurants across France, the Fish2Fork survey found one chef in three was interested in the environment and sourcing, Sylvette Peplowski, editor of the Fish2Fork France guide, told journalists at a press conference on Thursday.

The guide — which has already launched in the United Kingdom, the United States and Spain — ranks restaurants according to the impact their fish dishes have on marine life.

The online guide questioned French chefs about the species and origin of the seafood served in their restaurants, and the type of fishing gear used to catch the seafood.

Restaurants, invited to fill in questionnaires, were scored for the sustainability of the fish on their menu and their sourcing policies. When rating a restaurant, the guide uses data from the UK’s Marine Conservation Society as its benchmark. The best restaurants receive up to five blue fish, and the worst get up to five red fish.
The French guide rated 23 restaurants “above average,” scoring as high four blue fish. By contrast, 53 restaurants, or 70 percent, were “below average,” dropping to as low as five red fish.
The Fish2Fork France team stresses the aim of the online guide is “not to point the finger” but to help chefs in their move toward sustainable sourcing. A red rating “does not mean they’re not working toward” sustainable sourcing, said Peplowski.

Indeed, the guide is designed “to help consumers and validate conscientious chefs,” British journalist Charles Clover told SeafoodSource at the launch. Clover, the editor of Fish2Fork, is the author of the influential 2004 book “The End of the Line” that later hit the big screen in the form of a documentary film.
The Fish2fork France guide singled out a handful of French chefs driving sustainable seafood consumption. And leading the charge is Francois Pasteau, chef/owner of l’Epi Dupin in Paris. Click here to read an October 2010 SeafoodSource interview with Pasteau.

Speaking at the press conference this week Pasteau asserted: “I want my grandchildren to taste the great species of today.” For Pasteau, forging consumer awareness of sustainable species is “essential, just because a fish is cheap, doesn’t mean it’s not tasty.”

“I’m very worried about the future,” Mark Chevalier, chef of Au Petit Gari, based in Nice, in southern France, told journalists. He pointed to the information gap, suggesting, “We all need more knowledge, both the chef and the consumer, about which fish to avoid and to eat.”

Joining Chevalier and Pasteau as sustainable seafood champions are Philippe Pentecôte of Le Petit Bordelais in Paris and Emmanuel Taib, owner of the French sushi chain Côté Sushi. Michelin-starred chef Christian Têtedoie, owner of Têtedoie in Lyon, is also mindful of how he sources fish and seafood for his menus. “The maritime world has yet to follow the meat or vegetable supply chains” that promote the provenance of the foodstuff to consumers,” said Têtedoie.

His sentiments echo those of the Fish2Fork team, who pointed out that one restaurant questioned in Bordeaux could name the actual village that supplied pigeon for its menu and precise details on the race of its beef ingredients, but could not state the origin of their cod servings.

By Lindsey Partos, SeafoodSource contributing editor, reporting from Paris

50 Reasons to Avoid McDonalds (and other fast foods)

McDonald’s fries pose danger to human reproductive function
http://english.pravda.ru/society/family/11-02-2006/75807-mcdonalds-0/

Protect your children: The dangers associated with places like McDonalds & Chuck E Cheese
http://www.helium.com/items/160431-protect-your-children-the-dangers-associated-with-places-like-mcdonalds-chuck-e

I'll have a burger and fries with everything -- hold the ammonia
http://www.walletpop.com/2010/01/04/ill-have-a-burger-and-fries-with-everything-hold-the-ammonia/

What's in Fast Food? What's in the Non-Chicken Half of the McNugget
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-mercola/whats-infast-food_b_805190.html
 

McDonald's recall puts spotlight on cadmium's dangers
http://www.canada.com/health/McDonald+recall+puts+spotlight+cadmium+dangers/3120514/story.html

The Dangers of Chicken McNuggets and Fast Food
http://www.doctormercola.com/articles/uncategorized/the-dangers-of-chicken-mcnuggets-and-fast-food/

Health Risks Of McDonald’s Food
http://www.love-organic-food.com/health-risks-of-mcdonalds-food.html

How Bad Is McDonald's Food?
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/john-robbins/how-bad-is-mcdonalds-food_b_754814.html

If you hate your kids, feed them Mc Donald's.
http://www.chimachine4u.com/poison.html

Fast Food's Hidden Dangers
http://www.fa-ir.org/ai/fastfood_hidden.htm

McDonald's Diet Dangers
http://mcproposal.com/DietDangers.html

McDonald's Makes Even Oatmeal Bad for You
http://www.newser.com/story/112707/mcdonalds-makes-even-oatmeal-bad-for-you.html

15 Horrifying Reasons to Never Let Anyone You Love near a McDonald’s
http://www.binscorner.com/pages/1/15-horrifying-reasons-to-never-let-anyon.html

Dangers of Hot Chips or Fries
http://welladjustedbabies.com/dangers-of-hot-chips-or-fries/

Documentary showing ill health effects of McDonald’s food may be pressuring the fast food chain to pay attention to diet, nutrition and health
http://www.naturalnews.com/000990.html

McDonalds’ new Favorites Combo meal is a health hazard
http://furiouspurpose.me/2011/02/20/mcdonalds-new-favourites-combo-meal-is-a-health-hazard/

McDonald’s, Subway Sub Oatmeal among Five Worst “Healthy” Fast Foods
http://www.pcrm.org/newsletter/jun11/worst_healthy_fast_foods.html

What is worse: to eat at McDonald's or to work there?
http://www.helium.com/items/1829113-working-at-mcdonalds

Why McDonald's May Be Worse Than Marlboros
http://www.fitsugar.com/Obesity-Poses-Bigger-Threat-Health-Than-Smoking-Does-6925114

Cheap Eats for Hard Times: The Five Most Unhealthful Fast Food “Value Menu” Items
http://www.cancerproject.org/media/news/cheapeats_findings.php

McDonald's China defends chemical used in Chicken McNuggets
http://www.walletpop.com/2010/07/06/mcdonalds-china-defends-chemical-used-in-chicken-mcnuggets/

Eating at McDonalds
http://hubpages.com/hub/Eating-at-McDonalds

How Bad Is McDonald’s Food?
http://asweetlife.org/a-sweet-life-staff/featured/how-bad-is-mcdonalds-food/12012/

The Disadvantages of Eating McDonald's
http://www.ehow.com/info_8361058_disadvantages-eating-mcdonalds.html

Chicken McNuggets are 50% trash!
http://www.healing-blog.com/mcdonalds

McDonalds – I am so not Lovin’ it!
http://www.medimanage.com/my-diet/articles/mcdonalds-i-am-so-not-lovin%E2%80%99-it.aspx

What are the harmful effects of eating McDonald's hamburgers?
http://ask.alibaba.com/Q/803347212-What-are-the-harmful-effects-of-eating-McDonalds-hamburgers.html

A Lesson From McDonalds
http://www.downtoearth.org/health/general-health/lesson-mcdonalds

Chicken McNuggets Contain Disturbing Additives
http://healthinmotion.wordpress.com/2010/07/25/chicken-mcnuggets-contain-disturbing-additives/

McDonalds sued for making children obese
http://media.www.gwhatchet.com/media/storage/paper332/news/2002/11/25/UWireDcBureau/Mcdonalds.Sued.For.Making.Children.Obese-333119.shtml

Is McDonald’s betraying Our Kids?
http://organicconnectmag.com/wp/2011/05/is-mcdonalds-betraying-our-kids/

The Dangers of Chicken McNuggets and Fast Food
http://www.madhealth.net/the-dangers-of-chicken-mcnuggets-and-fast-food/

Anti-McDonald’s Commercial Could Save Lives
http://crazysexylife.com/2011/anti-mcdonald%E2%80%99s-commercial-could-save-lives/

Is McDonald's Betraying Our Kids By Barraging Them With Junk Food Ads?"
http://www.all-creatures.org/health/fh-betraying.html

Chicken McPoison – a Review of the Ingredients
http://www.truthistreason.net/chicken-mcpoison-a-review-of-the-ingredients

Overweight teens file fat lawsuit against McDonald's
http://www.greekchat.com/gcforums/archive/index.php/t-23754.html

Local mother angered by McDonald’s deception
http://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=5709&page=1

10 Reasons to Stop Eating Beef (and other Fast Food)
http://www.cqs.com/beef.htm

Parents Petition McDonald’s to Stop Marketing Junk Food to Kids
http://www.opposingviews.com/i/parents-petition-mcdonald%E2%80%99s-to-stop-marketing-junk-food-to-kids

McDonald's McNuggets Contain Silly Putty Ingredient
http://thestir.cafemom.com/toddler/106177/mcdonalds_mcnuggets_contain_silly_putty

Methane Emissions from McDonald’s
http://savelivestock.com/2011/03/01/methane-emissions-from-mcdonalds/

The dangerous, The Indestructible Food! (McDonald’s burger!!)
http://hasnain.wordpress.com/2011/03/23/the-dangerous-the-indestructible-food-mcdonalds-burger/

50% of McDonald chicken is Chemical - ill health effects
http://forum.healingdao.com/general/message/21056%5C

McDonald’s is bad, but is Subway the Real Devil in Disguise?
http://fyiliving.com/diet/special-diets/diabetes-diet/25000th-big-mac-mcdonalds-is-bad-but-is-subway-the-real-devil-in-disguise/

McDonald’s  accused of Selling Cancer-Causing Chicken
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=aH1MWERjUvpI

McDonald's Unhygienic Food
http://www.articlesbase.com/nutrition-articles/mcdonalds-unhygienic-food-4824910.html

Health Department Had Issues with Illinois McDonald's
http://foodpoisoning.pritzkerlaw.com/archives/hepatitis-a-health-department-had-issues-with-illinois-mcdonalds.html

McDonald's, Burger King and other fast food chains accused of selling cancer-causing grilled chicken
http://www.healthberth.com/2009/11/mcdonalds-burger-king-and-other-fast.html

McDonalds Is an evil thing designed to make us fat
http://cozay.com/forum/f15/mcdonalds-is-an-evil-thing-designed-to-make-t1293/

McDonald’s fast food: toxic ingredients include putty and cosmetic petrochemicals
http://www.examiner.com/wellness-in-atlanta/mcdonalds-fast-food-toxic-ingredients-unfit-for-animals

Why is there tertiary butylhydroquinone in McDonald’s Chicken McNuggets?
http://blog.friendseat.com/tertiary-butylhydroquinone-in-chicken-mcnuggets

The New "dirty dozen" list of produce !

A new report published by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) might make you re-think that "apple a day" -- if it's conventionally grown using pesticides.

According to the group's annual "dirty dozen" list of fruits and vegetables with the highest pesticide residues, apples ranked number one as the most-contaminated item, up from number four last year.Other changes from the 2010 findings: this year, cherries dropped off the list, and lettuce, previously absent, now appears at number 11. The EWG uses data compiled by the USDA to produce these findings.

Dirty Dozen 2011
1.    Apples
2.    Celery
3.    Strawberries
4.    Peaches
5.    Spinach
6.    Nectarines (imported)
7.    Grapes (imported)
8.    Sweet bell peppers
9.    Potatoes
10.    Blueberries (domestic)
11.    Lettuce
12.    Kale/collard greens

The "clean fifteen" are also included in the report - these are fruits and veggies with the lowest levels of pesticides so there's no need to waste your money on organic versions. Some popular items include watermelon and avocado.The EWG points out that if consumers simply chose their daily recommended five servings of fruit and vegetables from the least contaminated list over five from the dirty dozen, they would reduce the amount of pesticides ingested by 92% - without having to shell out extra money for organics.

Clean Fifteen 2011
1.    Onions
2.    Sweet corn
3.    Pineapples
4.    Avocado
5.    Asparagus
6.    Sweet peas
7.    Mangoes
8.    Eggplants
9.    Cantaloupe (domestic)
10.    Kiwi
11.    Cabbage
12.    Watermelon
13.    Sweet potatoes
14.    Grapefruit
15.    Mushrooms

Pesticides on produce
Conventional farmers use an arsenal of pesticides to protect their crops from insects, bacteria, rodents, molds, and fungi. These substances can end up in the food supply. Washing and peeling fruit and vegetables can lower pesticide residues, but not necessarily. When the USDA tests for pesticides, they wash and peel fruit the same way a typical consumer would.The National Institute of Environmental Health Services acknowledges that scientists do not have a full understanding of the health risks associated with exposure to agricultural pesticide residues through food, soil, water, or air. They also report that farmers who use pesticides experience an increase in neurological symptoms and that the harmful effects on children are greater than on adults.Recent studies indicate that pregnant women should also be careful of their exposure to pesticides. Three studies published in 2011 in the Journal of Environmental Health Perspectives suggest pesticide exposure can harm the developing fetal brain.

Organic vs. conventional produce
Organic produce is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. However, organics can be harder to find and prohibitively expensive. If you are concerned about consuming pesticides, the EWG's dirty dozen and clean fifteen lists can help you make the safest and most affordable choices.

Courtesy: Sarah B. Weir
http://green.yahoo.com/blog/greenpicks/301/the-new-dirty-dozen-list-of-produce.html;_ylt=ApTN6zVeFDrZwrkvH.2nuySdV8cXc