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SoDelicious Coconut Products Review

Posted in Desserts, The Truth About Dairy, The Truth About Soy, tagged , , , , , , on July 12, 2012 | 2 Comments »

An “ice cream and sweets loving” family, you can imagine the excitement that ensued upon the arrival of two large SoDelicious boxes– just in time for the July holiday.

I was blown away by the generous amount of products that came out of those insulated boxes! We had enough to host a SoDelicious Coconut party, and would have, if only we were already moved into our new house! 

Now, with those boxes added to the ones we have all over our current habitat, and many of the frozen treats “cleaned up”, it seems only fair to give a little review.

The Ice Cream Review– From the Peanut Gallery 

Cherry Amaretto- Sweet coconut flavor complimented with tart, dried cherries reminiscent of a after dinner beverage.

about as delightful, sinful, and well-rounded as the title suggests.

Coconut- Subtly sweet coconut. The perfect sorbet for a pool party.

refreshing and fun like a summer drink, but not overpowering like an artificially flavored pina colada

Mango- Tangy, sweet, and tropical

just as any mango should be.

Vanilla Bean- Traditional and smooth.

dress it up. dress it down. it’s all good.

Chocolate- Traditional, smooth, and chocolatey.

dress it up. dress it down. it’s all good.

Turtle Trails- Smooth and creamy ice cream complimented by mysterious chocolate covered pecans that add a subtle nuttiness and crunchy texture.

tasty. surprising.

Pomegranate Chip- Refreshingly sweet but tart pomegranate is uncharacteristically paired with rich and creamy chocolate chips.

The Fourth of July Favorite. Unexpectedly fruity with sharp chocolate flavor gloriously cutting through any tartness.

Mint Chocolate Chip- cool mint ice cream is refreshing and positively shocking against rich chocolate chips.

always a pleasure. Though not included in our package, the family loves this one so much I had to include it.

Vanilla Mini Ice Cream Sandwiches- sweet and cold vanilla creaminess complimented by soft and cake like layers that stick to your fingers if not eaten quickly (which is not a problem in our household).

Tasty– what you would expect from a little ice cream sandwich.

Fudge Bars- mildly chocolatey, and perfectly sweetened, these frozen treats melt more slowly and pleasantly linger longer.

the perfect summer treat.

Coconut Almond Ice Cream-Sicles- cool creamy insides compliment rich and crisp chocolate outsides. Almond slivers add a subtle crunchy and nutty flavor, but not enough to deter those mildly opposed to almonds.

NOW…

From a Nutritional Standpoint–

Going on the ice cream alone– I love coconut. The meat of a young Thai coconut is reminiscent of a full-bodied ice cream when blended with ice and choice of sweetener. For this reason the “home-blended” raw fleshy insides of a young Thai coconut are a delicious and healthful alternative for ice cream lovers– and anyone really. However, when anything goes beyond the produce section and ends up in pristine packaging, I raise my eyebrows.

While I won’t go as far as to claim that SoDelicious products have health benefits, I do think they are a tasty alternative for those looking to enjoy a creamy dessert without the dairy, lactose, casein, eggs, gluten, and soy found in most sweets.

What are the mainstay ingredients in their coconut ice product line?

The ingredients in their Vanilla Bean ice cream (one of the more basic flavors I would recommend to a client) are as follows:

Organic Coconut Milk (water, organic coconut cream), organic agave syrup, chicory root extract, carob bean gum, guar gum, vanilla extract, natural flavor, vanilla bean specks. 

Take Note:

  • The Gums (Locust bean gum, Guar gum, Xantham Gum, Chicory Root)– found in all sorts of processed foods under the sun, these non-starch polysaccharides are traditionally used to sweeten, thicken, and stabilize the ingredients in a product. The gums– derived of complex carbohydrates, a.k.a. sugar, these special agents are often used to replace fats, and sweeteners. In other words, where you may have added more fat to a creamy ice cream, Xantham gum may be used to give the product that creaminess, without increasing the fat content of the product.

My argument?

What’s the source?

How does the body break it down?

Sure these gum agents do exist in Nature, and do occur naturally in plants, but how natural is something after processing?

Though considered safe by most in authority, it should be something to think about.

A packaged product is never going to be a health food.

Other Ingredients to Note:

  • Agave.  Additionally, as one would expect from any ice cream, these sweet treats are just that… sweet– and contain a good amount of sugar (12 grams per 1/2 cup) though considerably lower than many mainstream desserts. The main source of sugar in each product is organic agave, which is by no means a health food, but can be considered more attractive than your typical highly processed, GMO-corn syrup product, inorganic sugar, or the majority of synthetic sugar substitutes. You may be interested in this article about Agave.
  • Natural Flavor. This really could mean anything… It should be a reason for you be wary when purchasing packaged goods.

In so many words, the more basic the treat, the better. Although the Turtle Trails was a popular flavor, I would not suggest the peanut oil, and additional coconut oils and ingredients making it more complicated for the body to breakdown. Overall, however, even the “sandwich wafer” on the ice cream sandwiches seem to be a more thoughtful combination of less offensive ingredients in a sea of polluted and wacky gluten-free, artificial options. While not a guilt-free dessert, I am impressed by the overall honesty of the company (aside from the Natural Flavor label). It is beyond easy to research the mainstay ingredients on their website, unlike many Big Food companies.

Aside from the “Natural Flavor” ingredient labeling (which is on just about everything these days), there is not a specific ingredient that gives me a real antsy red flag feeling, so if ya can’t bring yourself to whip up your own delicious coconut ice cream– and your transitioning away from the indigestible and bloating dairy/soy ice creams, these SoDelicious Ice Cream coconut ice creams can be a wonderful and “higher quality” alternative for the family in moderation. *But if you are looking for the healthiest options… go for the chocolate, coconut, or vanilla bean. Or really… just nix the packaged goods aisle and make something yourself with a young thai coconut or avocado.

Enjoy!

What is your favorite cool dessert?

Have you ever tried SoDelicious?

What is your favorite flavor?

What are your favorite coconut products?

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These 7 things may be causing you Anxiety.

Posted in Anxiety, The Truth About Dairy, The Truth About Soy, tagged , , , , , , , , , on January 31, 2011 | 8 Comments »

After posting 12 Tips for Managing Anxiety (and depression) Naturally, I heard from a number of readers happy to share their story, and offer suggestions. Thank you! It was so nice to hear your suggestions and thoughts on the topic.

Here is a recap from last week’s post:

Things that can cause and/or worsen Anxiety:

  1. Candida
  2. Soy
  3. Dairy
  4. Alcohol
  5. The Pill
  6. Caffeine
  7. A diet rich in processed foods, additives, and animal products will lead to an increased level of acidity in the body, and therefore disease, not excluding anxiety and depression.

After some thought though, I wanted to point out that there are a few other important things to look out for if you suffer from anxiety, nervousness, jitters, and/or depression.

  • What are you supplementing with? I cannot say that I agree with much of what the FDA regulates in terms of the packaged foods and beverages that make their way onto the shelves of our grocers, but I will point out that “dietary supplements do not need approval from FDA before they are marketed (FDA).” That being said, it can be very easy to fall into the traps of purchasing every supplement under the sun. Natural or not, it is very important to check with your nutritionist, or health coach to decide if supplements are suitable for you, and, if so, what supplements, and what brands to buy. Unless we have a specific need, we do not need many supplements (if any at all). Additionally, supplements that contain “natural energy” can lead to a restless, and jittery feeling. Be cautious of taking vitamin B12 supplements, especially ones that are not plant based. I would only recommend taking plant supplements, in general. I like
  • Diet Pills (and Energy Drinks) Ah!  Tempting as they may be, many work by increasing your heart rate. Not only are these pills (drinks) dangerous, but they can lead to anxiety, panic attacks, and other unwanted side effects. YIKES! Get energy the NATURAL way… through a proper and nutrient dense diet.
  • Chocolate. As delicious as chocolate may be, (and I only suggest enjoying “natural” and/or preferably organic dark chocolates when available) it also contains theobromine. Theobromine stimulates the central nervous system, much like caffeine. Although it is a more mild stimulant, people sensitive to any stimulant, and a history of nervousness should avoid (or decrease) chocolate consumption, especially at bed time.
  • Tea. Some tea has a lot of caffeine too.
  • Especially avoid stimulants in the hotter weather, as higher temperatures are more likely to increase heart rates, etc., and can “play” with an overactive mind.
  • Sugar, with the exception of natural sugars found in raw honey, fruits, and vegetables (which should be consumed in moderation), sugar spikes blood sugar levels up and down, upsetting glucose and energy levels, and stimulating the brain’s “feel good” receptors temporarily. Too much sugar can send someone sky high (overstimulating the brain), and then crashing down a few hours later.  A quick change in glucose levels, and/or “sugar withdrawal” can leave someone with the unsettling feeling of the “jitters” leading to hyperactivity, increased heart rate, and anxiety (or nervousness).
  • Bronchodilators, (like asthma medications), can also increase anxiety, dilating the bronchioles, and increasing heart rate.

In addition to incorporating these tactics into your daily regimens (from last weeks post)…

  1. Therapy
  2. Exercise
  3. Diet and Food Combining
  4. Sleep

Another healthy suggestion for managing anxiety comes from Laura B.. She suggests 20 minutes of Meditation in the morning and evening. If ever I am stressed, I close my eyes and think of something I am looking forward to, or something that I am grateful for… then I breathe. ;)

Breathe in… Breathe out…

How do you combat stress? Did you find this article helpful? What are your anti-anxiety tips? Would love to hear your comments!

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12 Tips for Managing Anxiety (and depression) Naturally

Posted in ADD and ADHD, pH and The Body, Recent Posts, The Truth About Dairy, The Truth About Soy, tagged , , , , , , , on January 24, 2011 | 12 Comments »

Flashback

Many people would not know this, but I used to suffer from anxiety (a.k.a. Panic Attacks).  I am not just talking about,

“Oh. My. Gosh, I hate flying”—anxiety.

Or, “I am so going to fail this test”—anxiety.

I am talking about the “Can’t catch my breath,”

“Think I am going to die,” heart palpitations, end up in the hospital— anxiety.

It started a few months before my 18th birthday and followed me into college. All things considered, I did a relatively good job at hiding just how terrifying and debilitating it was.

Flash forward

When people ask me why I do not eat something, or find my “restrictive” “diet” painful… expressing: “I could never give up xyz,” I acknowledge their opinion, and move on. First of all, I truly enjoy what I eat, and being forced to get creative in the kitchen. Outside of that though… While a scoop of ice cream is, by no means, going to give me anxiety, or lead me down the road to depression, anxiety, or the like… the sheer fact that nutrition changed so many aspects of my life, is enough to keep me on the path that I am.

Want another example?

Say you love milk, but are not satisfied with your body. If you were to eliminate milk and start to feel wonderful in your body… Would you still love milk?

What is more important to you?

No headaches, or cake?

More energy? Or pizza?

No anxiety? Or your “old way of eating”?

You choose.

I have witnessed, both, with my own experience, and clients alike, the way a wholesome diet can gradually heal a range of ailments from headaches to disease.

Brushing the Surface

When we consume artificial foods for instance, the chemicals are absorbed into the body and the blood stream.

Imagine that food is like medicine. If you believe a tiny pill is capable of affecting how you feel, it should not be too farfetched to imagine how the build up of man-made ingredients can affect the body.

When we eat something, the components (ingredients) of that food (or beverage) are not just run off on the treadmill. Just because something contains zero calories does not mean that we are consuming air. While a diet soda may not make us incoherent, as would an alcoholic beverage, you better believe it is doing something in there.

Delving Deeper

The intestines are spongy. In the same way that the body absorbs vitamins and minerals from food, it is also just as capable of absorbing other unwanted substances. If you can envision it, the small and large intestine(s) total twenty-five feet in length. Not only does a meal have a long way to travel, but also not all food is digested and assimilated the equally.

When foods are left to putrefy and decay, they are far from pleasant and certainly not appetizing. Your body would agree.

A piece of meat for instance, is going to rot, and release poisons into the blood stream. The blood is cycled throughout the body, visiting each of the body’s organs. If the blood is not clean, it will wreak havoc… whether that means causing cardiovascular problems in one person, or anxiety in the next…

The good news is that we can cleanse and renew the blood gradually by proper eating, and other cleansing methods (exercise, etc.).

It is for this reason that it is pertinent that we choose wholesome foods that are nutrient dense, and nourishing.

We live in a society that assumes potency is associated with efficacy. In other words, when we read the Nutrition Facts, (on some well marketed food label), and it tells us that it contains X amount of protein, Y amount of fiber, and it also contains vitamins A, C, D, E, F, and G, we are going to believe it.

But really… How viable is the Vitamin C in a vitamin infused gummy worm?

Unfortunately, and in reality, the numbers found on product labels are not equivalent to how the body is actually able to absorb and utilize the stated nutrients. Additionally, foods have different pH scores, which affect the acidity of the body. In other words, there are a lot of things that should be taken to account when nourishing the body.

12 Tips for Managing Anxiety (and depression) Naturally

Specifically speaking to anxiety, which tends to coexist with other such “disorders” (such as depression), it is VITAL to watch for the following:

1.  Candida—you would be surprised at the number of women (and men) that unknowing suffer from Candida. Candida feeds off of sugars in sweets, wine, starches, breads, etc., and is worsened by certain pharmaceutical medications, alcohol, and birth control.

Tips: Cut as much sugar from the diet as possible, focusing only on natural sugars found in plant foods.  Unfortunately fruits, and honey (raw too) aid in helping Candida to flourish. Looking for sweet? Try Stevia. My personal favorite is NuNaturals brand Alcohol free products, but there are other brands out there too. For further recommendations, I highly suggest you read this article.

2.  Eliminate Soy. Why?  For starters… Soy is processed. Processed. PROCESSED. Want the full lingo?  Read on here.

3.  Eliminate dairy from your diet. Why? Read on here…

4.  Watch your alcohol intake. Reduce or eliminate. Not only is alcohol a depressant, but it also depletes the body of important nutrients. Specifically related to anxiety, it drains the body of magnesium and calcium. These two minerals are naturally calming. If you are having issues sleeping at night due to anxiety, it may behoove of you to look into taking plant-based magnesium and calcium supplements prior bedtime. (Do not take with food as it will disrupt digestive acids needed for digestion).

5.  Therapy. Talk to someone. Do not be afraid to talk to someone you can trust. Really…. Stress is highly acid forming.  It is for this reason that nervous eaters generally have indigestion (or stomachaches). It prohibits our bodies from correctly producing the digestive juices needed to breakdown and assimilate foods. When you hold something in, it tends to build inside (imagine the person that explodes, after years of internal angst). Just the same way that acid-forming foods can cause and accelerate disease, so can stress. If you were to look at twins with similar diets, one with a highly stressful job, (the other, not so much), the twin with the stressful job is bound to not only look older, but be prone to more disease.

* I have been exceptionally fortunate to have two of the best friends growing up (K and T). K, never fully understood my reasoning behind my exaggerated fear of death, but never judged, nor scoffed at the strangeness (trust me, I thought it was pretty darn strange). How many 17 year olds do you know that are legitimately terrified of having heart failure? Bizarre. *

* T, on the other hand, had the innate knack for calming me down, even when we were 3,000 miles apart. I could call her and my anxiety levels would drop substantially. T, will make one heck of a nutritional therapist.  *

What is my point…?

Some “friends” will judge. Some do not. Put yourself in a positive atmosphere. I am so happy that both of these young women were in my life, then… and now…

If you do not have a K, or a T, find someone you can talk to. :) I recommend that every person, young and old, have some sort of “therapist”, periodically. Why not? (Note: Talking is good. Dwelling is not).

Here are a few tips regarding Healthy Ways to Combat Stress.

6.  The Pill. Are you on it? If you are experiencing anxiety and you are on the pill, please take note that anxiety (and depression, etc.) is very common in young women on the pill.  Not only does it unnaturally regulate hormone levels, but it forces your body to stop doing what it was naturally meant to do. I am by no means advocating unsafe sex, but you must be willing to weigh the risks and benefits (there are options outside of The Pill).

Important note: If you are on “The Pill” for your skin (i.e. Acne), keep in mind that it is more than likely related to Candida, and it would be advantageous to explore those options as well.

7.  Caffeine. Put down that cup off coffee, tea, chocolate, etc. Caffeine revs the body up, preparing you to take “flight” (should a bear pop out of your bedroom closet).  Caffeine will keep you on edge, and feed you nervous energy. Check this article out for Healthier Alternatives to Coffee.

Looking for natural energy?

8.  Try food combining, in addition to focusing on wholesome and natural foods. The less time your body has to devote to digesting, the more energy you have to think. Also check out this article about the importance of breakfast, and how it correlates to digestion.

9. More supplements?

Supplement with Vitamin B.

When you are stressed, the body’s reserve of B vitamins is depleted.  This can lead to a slew of adverse events, specifically anxiety. Look into supplementing with a plant based vitamin B supplement.

Supplementing… what’s the deal?

Supplementing need not be a long-term deal. I supplemented for a few years until my body no longer required vitamin supplementation outside of my diet. In addition to juicing, my diet enables me to infuse my body with the nutrients necessary to feel energized, calm, cool, and collected.

10.  Exercise.

Exercise is so important to combating stress. It increases oxygen to the heart, and naturally aids in the detoxification process.

Proof?

How do you feel after a run?

How do you feel after a bowl of ice cream?

I am guessing that the run feels better, and entirely more energizing. Do not confuse the feelings. While sugar may be temporarily energizing, it is of no value to the body. Sugar is a fake energy (and extremely acid-forming). It offers no nutritional value, and tricks the body into thinking that it can keep running, when in fact it is running on cheap fuel. (Cheap fuel does more harm in the long term).

11.  Sleep.

Once you learn to manage your insomnia, be it through nutrition alone, or supplements, you will learn just how pertinent sleep is in eliminating anxiety, in addition to other ailments. A good nights rest means better concentration.  A well-rested body is less likely to reach for sugar, or junk foods.  Additionally, sleep is highly alkalizing, giving the body ample time to heal, and recuperate.  A heavy sleeper is someone who’s body knows the value of using that time to fight off unwanted disease, as well as anxiety. If you are not allergic to ragweed, sip chamomile tea prior to bed.

12.  And finally, back to your food selections… Be cautious of the foods you choose to nourish your body with. I used to be a huge fish eater. I ate fish 4-5x a week until realizing that not only was I more than likely eating a ton of mercury (swordfish), but the fish I was eating (mostly farmed) was feeding on foods that I was trying to avoid myself (a.k.a– soy, gluten, etc.). I was shocked to find out that I was indirectly eating foods I was intentionally eliminating.  It is also important to be getting ample fat… but the RIGHT fat!  Check out this article about fat.

Present

Oh… and guess what? Sure I get stressed like your average 20-something year old… sure I still am not in love with flying (hey, I like my feet on the ground), but the rest… history ;)

~ – ~

Thoughts?

Do you have any tips to add?

What is your story?

P.S. Thanks T, and K for being amazing best friends, (My sister and Mom for always being supportive and honest)… and my boyfriend… for loving me just the way I am now. Vegan, and all. ;)

~ – ~ – ~ This would also be a nice time to mention a special program my friend Marlena is hosting concerning Emotional Eating. She is wonderful. I suggest you check it out at: www.emotionaleatingfreedom.com and decide if this program is right for you.

xo,

Me

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Diet and Behavior: Controlling ADD and ADHD, Naturally

Posted in ADD and ADHD, The Truth About Dairy, The Truth About Soy, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on November 11, 2010 | 13 Comments »

According to The National Institute of Mental Health, every classroom of 25 has at least 1 child with an Attention Deficit Disorder, specifically ADD, or ADHD.

A child that has been diagnosed with ADD, is often thought of, or labeled as, “learning disabled” when in fact they are generally of above average intelligence, and highly creative.

Taking a step back…

Symptoms of ADD, ADHD, are varied, but more commonly thought of as:

ADD

  • Inability to pay close attention, easily distracted, and “forgetful” in daily activities
  • Makes careless mistakes, and may have difficulty organizing tasks and activities, often failing to follow instructions or finish tasks
  • Does not seem to listen when spoken to
  • Avoids and dislikes tasks that require sustained mental effort

ADHD

  • Fidgets, squirms, leaves his or her seat often
  • Feels restless, and runs about, climbing excessively
  • Difficulty taking part in quiet time
  • Blurts out answers, interrupting conversations, with some difficulty waiting his or her turn

These “symptoms” are taken from one of my favorite references, “Prescription for Nutritional Healing” by Phyllis A. Balch, CNC, whom further suggests that if these symptoms persist for more than 6 months, occur in at least two settings (home, school, work), than it is likely a child has an Attention Deficit Disorder.

While it can be “easy” to suggest medication to correct the symptoms of a seemingly hyperactive, or inattentive child, it is of my opinion that such disorders are over-diagnosed, and these medications over-prescribed. All too often “symptoms” of ADD are masked with medication, which not only can be cause for a number of side effects as a child ages, but also be more naturally corrected with dietary changes.

What causes ADD and ADHD? Many factors have been linked to the development of ADD/ADHD including: heredity, anxiety, allergies, environmental stress, pollution, artificial food additives, and diet.

With the way we eat these days, I would assume that the number of kids that could be (or have been) diagnosed with an Attention Deficit Disorder is much more than 4%.

Of course, my belief is that while we cannot control what we were born with, and what we breath in, we can choose to provide our children (and ourselves) with the right nutrients that have the ability to alter the cards we have been dealt.

Yes.  I whole-heartedly believe that with the right diet; allergies, anxiety, skin disorders, disease and “learning disabilities”, like ADD/ADHD, can virtually disappear.  I have seen it happen.

While I may not have my own kids just yet, I grew up with a wild little “monkey” for a brother (that is putting it nicely).  Thankfully, my mother refused to put him on anything, though at the time, I was hardly grateful.  What happened to him?  Low and behold, his behavior was altered significantly by a few changes in his diet (based on what I now know, I can only imagine how well-behaved he would have been given a few other changes in his diet, as well).

All too often we overlook the external causes for problems, sometimes “copping” out by popping a pill, or using the excuse that “kids will be kids, they are going to eat what they want when they are not at home anyways.” While we cannot control what kids eat outside of the house, and there will always be birthday parties, and the like, we are in charge of educating ourselves, and our children about the right way to eat.  Allowing our children to eat “crap” inside the house, because they may to choose to eat it outside of the house, is no excuse. That’s like saying there are bad drugs out there that our kids may try, so we may as well keep them in the house too! (Okay… dramatization… but you catch my drift).

Side Note: By the way, when kids are raised on a more natural diet (one that tastes good– I am not talking about cardboard pasta, or “soy-furkey-lurkey” hot dogs), they will appreciate real tastes more, and will be less likely to look elsewhere for outside sugars, and other processed junk.  They will love a baked sweet potato with organic butter, or coconut butter. Additionally, someone who is used to a natural diet, will feel sick after indulging in junk food, and be more likely to associate the bad feeling with the bad food (and thus be less likely to choose it later).  Come on.. when was the last time your child’s behavior changed after enjoying something naturally sweet, like a banana, or apple.  Now think back to how they respond after candy, cake, ice cream…

Diet contributes to Attention Deficit Disorders, like ADD and ADHD.  While I believe that every diet should be focused on only on wholesome, and nutrient dense foods (check out my philosophy here), the following information is key to minimizing and squelching the negative side effects of ADD/ADHD:

  1. Dairy products have been shown to contribute to behavioral problems and hyperactivity in children. Avoid it.  Opt for Almond milk, or coconut milk instead (or even rice milk).  A little butter is o.k. here and there.  Check out these articles written about dairy.  I would highly suggest avoiding soy too.  It is a very processed beverage.  Check out these articles written about soy!
  2. Reduce and eliminate simple carbohydrates like glucose, fructose, and galactose. This includes processed sugars, and refined grains.  Fruit snacks… are a no-go. Sorry!
  3. Enjoy an abundance of fruits and vegetables, and whole grain products like: spelt, quinoa, and kamut. There are some wonderful pastas available at Health Shoppes and specialty grocers like Whole Foods.  It may be more pricey, but what is the real cost of you, and your child’s health?  How much do those meds cost these days, anyways?  How much extra time does it take out of your day to sit your child down and explain to them, for the 15th time, that they need to learn their multiplication tables… sit still… play nice…
  4. Remove simple carbohydrates (as mentioned above), junk food, foods with artificial colorings and flavorings, MSG, yeast, preservatives, processed and manufactured goods.**
  5. Avoid: apple cider vinegar, bacon, butter, candy, condiments (like ketchup and mustard), lunch meat, hot dogs, ham, corn, soy, tea and wheat.**
  6. AVOID THE HAPPY MEAL. Sodas contain a high amount of phosphorus, as do animal proteins (especially the processed meats).  In this day in age, it is very easy to have an imbalance of phosphorus to calcium/magnesium levels.  This imbalance is commonly linked to ADD/ADHD behavior, and a number of other disorders.
  7. NOTE: If your child already lives a very clean lifestyle, and still (very rare) shows signs of ADD/ADHD, temporarily eliminate “otherwise healthy” foods that contain salicytates (which have been linked to behavioral problems).  These foods include:  almonds, apples, apricots, all berries, cherries, cucumbers, currants, oranges, peaches, peppers, plums, prunes, and tomatoes.  (Add them back in at a later date and monitor behavioral changes).  However, in my opinion, this is a last resort.  I would much rather see my children munching on an organic apple than a hotdog, or sugary bowl of cereal (even if it is “Whole Grain”). 

Suggestions for a happier, healthier childhood!

Start small.

Switch out dairy products for milk alternatives.

  • Stop buying foods that are processed, and contain sugar. Period.
  • Focus the diet around fruits and vegetables, whole grain pastas, sweet potatoes, winter squashes, quality fish and chicken, if necessary.
  • Offer kids carrot sticks and hummus, or almond butter.
  • Trade out fruit roll-ups for Fruit Leathers, or ideally, real fruit.
  • Try cutting up ripe bananas and freezing them for a fun frozen treat, instead of ice cream.  Sprinkle chocolate shavings overtop, or spread almond butter on a ripened banana.
  • Avoid peanut butter. Opt for almond butter.
  • Sweeten cookies, and breads with ripe bananas, agave, or stevia.
  • Trade out chips for baked blue corn chips, with salsa or guacamole.  How to pick out healthy chips! and Why to avoid White Potatoes!
  • Serve hearty meals, like “Sprout tortillas” with beans, and guacamole, and grilled mushrooms.
  • More tips here! For a Happy and Healthy Family!
  • Check out these videos for tips on how to manage the grocery aisles. There is a great healthy pizza recipe there too!
  • Want to laugh? Check out what my sister wrote about living with me… Be sure to check out her comments too!

Check out what I used to feed my sister 15 (now 16-year old sister) for lunch ideas!

Brookes Lunch

Bs Lunch

*~ _~ _ ~*~ _ ~ *

What is your experience with Attention Deficit Disorders?  Have you noticed or experienced a correlation between diet and behavior?  Are there any trigger foods?  What do you think about this topic?  How have you been affected by “disorders” like ADD and ADHD?  I want your feedback!

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The Truth About Your Soy Latte. Ten Reasons to Avoid Soy.

Posted in Recent Posts, The Truth About Soy, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on March 6, 2010 | 20 Comments »

I am always asked the question… “What about soy?”

Plain and simple– I do not like soy.

At all.

As a recovering soy addict… I invite you to read this article, before you order another Low Fat Soy Latte…

Ten Reasons to Avoid Soy.

1.  Soy is not a cure

Did you ever wonder who funds those studies that tout soy as a wonder food?  Funny story, there are organized “boards” for that stuff.  The United Soybean Board funded research that linked soy protein consumption with a reduced risk of heart disease.  They are also partially funding a study that looks at the role of soy and prostate cancer (1).  (There are also boards for almonds, walnuts, milk, olive oil… etc. etc.).

Soy, (and food, in general), is not a cure all… there is not one magical berry, oil, or bean that will cure all of our ailments.  However, these foods are often marketed to us, as such, and we end up consuming lots of these magical products, instead of making sensible lifestyle changes, in our diet (like avoiding the fried chicken, or cheese puffs, and adding more veggies).

2.  Marketing soy as a “health food” – Who Benefits?

Of the USDA’s, thirteen committee members, “seven [have] ties to either the food or drug companies (or both), or have received funding from such companies (2).”  Now… when the USDA is the one telling us to consume 3 cups of milk per day… isn’t that a bit suspicious?  It would be like me owning stock in flax seed oil, and telling you to have one tbsp, with every meal.  The point being, you should always question any “wonder food” that is being aggressively marketed.

3.  Soy is processed, processed, processed.

The soy products found on our super market shelves are rarely in their raw, or natural form.  The point being… even if a soy bean was to be a “healthy” source of protein… the soy products more commonly see, are treated and processed– processed is not a good thing.  In order to produce soy products, like soy milk, the soy is heated to extremely high temperatures, making it “unnatural,” and then pumped with preservatives, stabilizers, and sweeteners.

4.  Soy is very difficult for the body to break down, and digest.

Soybeans contain enzymes inhibitors.  Enzyme inhibitors, inhibit the enzymes needed for protein digestion.  Soybeans are a source of protein, yet they contain a substance that does let the body break down this protein.  This causes stress on the body, and will cause bloat, indigestion, constipation, etc. in some form or another.  *(Fermented (organic) soy products are not as difficult to digest).

5.  Say hello to sinus problems.  Soy is mucus forming.

Because soy is so difficult for the body to digest and breakdown, it aggravates our body’s delicate system, and leaves a sticky residue (like mucus), that coats our gastrointestinal tracts, and therefore slows the body’s natural flow (digestive and respiratory).  This leads to excess mucus, which then contributes to sinus infections, asthma, colds, IBS, and other digestive issues, etc. (3)

6.  Soy can inhibit the absorption of precious minerals.

Soy is high in phytic acid.  Phytates, like those found in grains, inhibit the body’s absorption of calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc.

7.  Soy is genetically modified.

Unless the soy product is labeled as organic, it is most likely genetically modified, and treated with herbicides.   When something is genetically modified, it means that its original chemical makeup is altered, so that it can resist toxic fertilizers—and thus farmers can grow more, and more, cheap soy!  (Um… these fertilizers may not kill the soybean… but we are the lucky ones that get to eat that stuff).

8.  Soy has the ability to alter hormonal levels.

Soy contains phyto-estrogens.  These compounds mimic human estrogens.  Anything that has the ability to disrupt the normal functioning of the endocrine system is not a winner is my book.

9.  Soy is contaminated with chemicals.

Soy is a “commodity crop.”  When farmland is used to grow only one or two crops, it is called monoculture.  “Monoculture doesn’t return nutrients to the soil, so it can’t be effective without the chemical fertilizers (4).”  (Once again, this means more chemicals for us!)

10.  Soy has a negative impact on the earth.  “Globally, 90 percent of soy meal is fed to animals (5).”  What does this mean?  Soy is not being grown to supply us with an endless amount of edamame (soybeans).  Soy is not being grown to feed our hungry bellies, and stave off world hunger.  Soy is being grown in order to inexpensively fatten up animals for slaughter.

Soy leaves behind a giant ecological footprint, because of our societies demand for cheap meat.

Additionally, large amount of chemical fertilizers are required to sustain these enormous monoculture farmlands.  In order to get these fertilizers, fossil fuels must be refined, and transported long distances (4).

Translation:  Energy. Energy. Energy.  Being consumed. Consumed.  Consumed.

If we were to instead use that farmland to grow produce, that we could actually hold in our hands, and eat… our health would improve, as would the condition of our earth, all the while diminishing world hunger.

* I would just like to point out that someone who substitutes a soy burger, for a hamburger patty, is being more eco-friendly.

Summary:

- Soy is not a health food and it slows down the body’s natural flow—leading to all sorts of digestive, skin, weight, and respiratory problems.

- Soy is not good for weight loss.

- Soy can affect our endocrine systems—and thus alter our hormones.

- Soy is generally, genetically modified, and chemical ridden.

- Soy is not eco-friendly.

Other articles that may be of interest:

The Raw Truth: All About Soy

The Ploy of Soy

Works Cited

Food Matters, by Mark Bittman:  (1) page 60, (2) page 50, (4) page 25, (5) page 24
The Raw Food Detox Diet, by Natalia Rose: (3) page 29




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