Search Results

It’s all about those grains . Or well, it should be. Due to various diet gurus advocating low or zero carbohydrate diets, and possibly the quinoa craze of the late ‘00s, grain-containing products have gotten a bad rep, which they totally do not deserve. Grains indeed contain carbs, but they are also incredible sources of fibre, provide plenty of healthy nutrients, and are a cost-effective kitchen staple. On top of that they are incredibly versatile and great to diversify any restrictive diet with; vegan and gluten-free diets will become much more diverse when more types of grains are used. As grains in their unprocessed form are a rather daunting prospect for the grain-beginners, we’ll provide you with the tips needed to start integrating grains into your everyday routine. How to Store Grains? In a domestic setting most of us don’t have access to silo but we do have our kitchen cupboards or pantry . Grains have a great shelf-life and can be kept for months without spoiling. The most important thing about storing grains is to store them away from moisture, heat, and air – meaning that airtight containers are the most suitable storage solution. Just make sure that the containers are fully dry before filling them with your newly acquired grains. You could keep them in the back of your pantry or kitchen cupboards, OR you could be a real ‘homemaker’ and store your grains in some rustic-looking mason jars. Add some pretty labels with the name of the grain and the use by date, and turn your pantry into a pantry that every zero-waste or mom-blogger would die for. How Long Can You Store Grains? After experiencing nationwide grocery shortages at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, we have all learnt our lesson th...

Diatomaceous earth is a naturally occurring sand made from the fossilized remains of diatoms. These are tiny aquatic organisms whose skeletons are composed of natural silica – an essential ingredient of diatomaceous earth. It looks like an off-white powder, a bit like talc, and has no noticeable odour. It's non-toxic and abrasive and can be used for a number of handy things. And please don't worry, as diatomaceous earth is a vegan product, meaning that no diatoms were hurt during the production process. What is Diatomaceous Earth Used For? There are two main types of diatomaceous earth:  food grade  and  feed grade . Food grade  diatomaceous earth is often used as alternative medicine. It can be ingested or used on the outside of the body to cure various ailments. Food grade can also help cleanse the digestive tract, improve cholesterol and bone health, and promote hair growth. Feed grade  diatomaceous earth is used as ...

Isn't it strange how the moment you tell anyone you're considering giving the vegan lifestyle a go , they nearly always immediately turn into an overnight nutritional expert, with a deep concern over how “you'll be lacking in protein”. We've all heard the concern, but does becoming vegan mean that you'll be protein deficient and too weak to lift your soy  milk latte within a week? No whey! Get it? In fact, there's an absolute treasure trove of great sources of protein you can enjoy as part of a fulfilling and nutritionally balanced, plant-based diet. You'll be pumping up your protein levels in no time! Even former Mr. Universe, action movie icon and former Governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger has talked about how he has switched over to an almost entirely meat and dairy free lifestyle (although he's admitted to still consuming eggs on occasion, but that's still a pretty massive leap!). So if ever you hear people crying out their protein concerns, just remember that The Terminator himself is doing just fine with his new found love for almond  milk. So let's dispense with the nonsense and give you a few great ways to help you with getting some of that all important protein into your diet, so you can feel pumped up and overflowing with energy as you get through your day, whether it be working toward that employee of the month status at work or pumping iron and making gains in the gym! Also, if before reading this you'd already came across seitan, don't worry, it's not as bad as it's name makes it sound. In fact, it can be 'devilishly good' (feel free to take all of our wonderful jokes that you read here, as well as the all the protein talk). Dare To Ditch Dairy Those of us of a certain age will surely remember how, as...

Veganism is certainly increasing in popularity across the UK and there are many ways to embrace vegan living - whether it’s the clothes you wear, the products you use on your skin, the entertainment you watch, and of course your daily diet. The Vegan Society describes veganism as a philosophy and lifestyle which seeks to eliminate animal exploitation, particularly from food and clothing production, while promoting the benefits of animal-free alternatives. This includes cutting out meat, dairy, and anything else derived from animals, from your diet. The environmental, health, and ethical benefits of veganism are beyond doubt, but whether you are a lifelong meat-eater, or have already made the move to vegetarianism, it can be hard to know where to start. Here, we have outlined six simple steps to help you on your journey. Step One: Commitment and Timescales It’s important to understand that for most embracing a vegan lifestyle is less of an overnight feat, and more of a gradual transition as you seek out what works best for you – don’t be concerned if you feel you need more time. Keep your end goal in mind, but go at your own pace. For some, trying a meat or dairy-free day a week is a good starting point, perhaps then moving on to incorporating one vegan meal into each day and increasing this as you feel you are able. Others find it best to swap out a product at a time with the growing number of plant-based alternatives available - be it milk, mayonnaise, or yoghurt. Step Two: Researching the Products You Regularly Consume Taking a deep dive into your fridge and kitchen cupboards is a must before fully committing to a vegan diet. You may be surprised to find that some of your favourite foods contain ingredients either wholly or partly derived from animals. To help ensure that you don’t get caught ou...

COVID-19 has taken an unprecedented toll on society. Not just in its rapid spread, but also in its effect on the economy. Governments have taken drastic measures to slow down the viral spread and this has resulted in many businesses closing their doors. No doubt, coronavirus has been tough on everyone. How soon we’ll get out of this depends a lot on our actions. Here’s what you can do to help. Keep Yourself Healthy If you become sick, you can spread the virus to others if you aren’t careful. You need to stay healthy to help make sure that doesn’t happen. Don’t allow your health to slack just because you are in social isolation. Eat a nutritious diet to keep your immune system strong. Exercise regularly. You may not be able to go to the gym, but there are plenty of exercises you can do at home . If you have a hard time finding the motivation to exercise, join a virtual exercise group. Many gyms have taken their exercise classes online and some are even offering classes for free. Stay Away from Large Groups As long as people ignore social distancing recommendations, the virus is going to continue to spread. The young and healthy may be less afraid of the virus, but that doesn’t mean that they can do as they please. Large parties are fun, but they aren’t worth the death that could result from them. A young and healthy person could be infected without knowing it. They could then pass the virus to a loved one that is at risk. Your role goes beyond protecting yourself. Younger, healthier people have a much more important role in keeping the virus from spreading to more vulnerable populations. Try Not to Complai...

While meal prepping may look like a challenge at first glance, you can overcome any obstacle with the right plan and execution. Effective meal prepping starts with the planning stage and continues through the cooking process to the proper and safe storage of the food. Here are three tips to help you master each step of the process so that you can meal prep like a pro. Planning Process The cornerstone of solid meal prep is the planning phase . Get out your calendar and plan your meals for a specified interval, but take into account any special events in your schedule. If you are looking to save money, try to group meals together by similar ingredients. After you have your meal plan, you need to make your grocery list. Carefully assess how much of any given ingredient you'll need for each individual meal and multiply appropriately. Then, hit the store. Be sure to do this just before you intend to devote some time to preparation and cooking so that the ingredients are used at their freshest. Cooking Process Now, the fun really begins. Once you have all of your ingredients, you can begin cooking. Be sure to organize your tasks in a way that makes logical sense and does not waste time. Understanding when it is all right to cut corners will also help. For example, instead of spending a long time cutting vegetables, you can consider buying some of them already chopped. It can be easy to get careless when you are making such large amounts of food at one time. Remember the importance of being especially careful while working in the kitchen. It is estimated that 1 in 10 homes will have a kitchen fire this year, so you must stay vigilant when cooking. Storing Process Onc...

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is a balancing act. While this may sound challenging to anyone looking to change their lifestyle, you'll soon learn that finding this balance will come naturally. Therefore, read on to learn how to keep the health and wellness aspects of your existence in equilibrium so you can live your happiest and most energized life. Physical Health First, focus on your physical health. If you don't normally enjoy exercise, try to find an activity that works for you. Yoga, for example, is completely different from weightlifting or cardio. Simply decide on the one that's easiest for you to stick with. Group classes like Zumba or kickboxing will also help to get you into the habit of treating your body right. Sustainable healthy eating is another way to look and feel your best. Instead of restricting intake or crash dieting, emphasize whole foods in your diet. Attempt to eat properly in your day-to-day life, but allow yourself to indulge every once in a while so you don't feel deprived. Mental Health Your mental health is also important when trying to create a balanced and fruitful life. However, don't fall for the impression that it will always be easy and straightforward. Much like kicking your physical body into shape, improving your mental state of mind requires dedication too. However, if you remain consistent and find joy in prioritizing your self-improvement, it will become more natural with time. If you find yourself struggling to maintain your motivation, energy healing processes can help support physical health. It helps you release trapped emotions that could be keeping you from feeling your best-self. When you're starting out, keep up with a journal. Set it beside your bed an...

Spring is the perfect time to start gardening. Even beginners can learn how to grow produce and benefit from the process. It's a good pastime for almost anyone for a variety of reasons. Here are a few great benefits you can get from taking up gardening this spring. It Occupies Your Mind Gardening gives you a way to stay busy while still being in a mindful state. It's a calming activity that has been shown to help with certain mental health conditions. Gardening is also a physical activity that can keep you limber and in shape without pushing your body to extremes. Many mental health problems are linked to physical ailments, and gardening can address both. Anxiety disorders are also linked to several physical medical conditions that can take a toll on your overall health. Gardening is a workout that can increase your heart rate while calming your mind. The overall benefits mean it's a well-rounded activity for your entire being. You Get Fresh Produce Fresh produce is one of the greatest benefits of gardening. Growing your own food means you know where it comes from and how it is processed. It's also empowering to know that you can make a meal from food you grew. Start with easy crops that grow well in your area. After some successes, feel free to branch out into more challenging produce that requires more attention or maintenance. You can create a space in your own backyard that will yield your favorite fresh foods, and you can go pick them when it's time. Planting herbs will also give you a way to spice up any dishes you make. Try oregano, parsley and basil to begin with. You can even grow he...

While exercise is important, in order to maintain a healthy body watching what you eat is also imperative. One of the best ways to make sure you are eating the best food is to have healthy snack options in your home. Here are a few things that you can eat in place of your usual snacks, so you can maintain your health journey. Nuts Instead of Crackers While there are lots of different crackers that can actually be rather healthy such as wheat thins, consuming too many carbs can have a negative impact on your weight loss journey. However, by eating nuts such as almonds, sunflower seeds, et cetera, you can satisfy your craving while gaining extra vitamins and nutrients without the carbs. Eating nuts can keep your teeth healthy and strong. Almonds contain vitamin E as well as have empty calories which makes them great for your overall health in general. Blueberries Instead of a Cereal Bar Although cereal bars are considered healthy eating, many of them contain lots of calories and sugar. On the other hand, blueberries can be a great alternative as they do more than just help you lose weight . Blueberries contain potassium, vitamin C, and fibre which can help with lowering cholesterol which can help to prevent heart disease . Natural Fruit Juice Instead of Diet Soda Diet soda has been around for years and is one of the go-tos for many people who are looking to lose weight. However, unlike the name suggests, diet soda can actually be bad for your health as drinking soda can increase your risks of getting prostate cancer. Furthermore, not only can drinking soda, even diet soda, increase the possibil...

Some of the major concerns that people have about their hair are dryness and flaking, hair loss and breakage, and dullness and unmanageability. Cultures have sought to use botanical oils to improve hair health from ancient times. Here are some natural oils that can address your specific concerns. Evening Primrose Oil Through benefits to the scalp, evening primrose oil (EPO) allows you to have more lustrous hair. Hydration and nutrients crucial to scalp health relieve itching and dandruff conditions associated with dryness and inflammation. The major nutritional value evening primrose oil has for the scalp is that it supplies essential fatty acids, which have antioxidant properties and address inflammatory issues in the body to promote stronger hair strands. Researchers suspect EPO can help you grow thicker hair by eliminating certain factors that cause it to fall out, like scratching, nutritional deficits, and damage from the sun or wind. Experts also believe that because EPO has phytoestrogens and shows promise in balancing hormones, it can decrease the hair loss that's secondary to menopause. Finally, according to Sara Gottfried MD , evening primrose oil may inhibit DHT, a major hormone implicated in female-pattern hair loss. Camellia Flower Oil Camellia flower oil has a delicate fragrance, but its effects on your hair can be dramatic. It contains over 80% omega-9 fatty acids, which are compatible with your skin and hair. Artego advises that camellia flower seeds from the tea plant are rich in Vitamins A, B, and E and prevents skin and hair aging and dehydration. Also chock full of plant collagens that provide omega-9 fatty acids, similar to olive oil and the natural oils in your body, camell...

More and more health professionals recognize the importance of the health of your gut to your overall health. Some have even suggested that the gut acts as a sort of "second brain" that communicates with the one in your head and influences everything else that goes on in your body. How can you make sure that your second brain stays healthy? Here are some tips. Eat Right One of the keys to maintaining a healthy GI system is to eat right, and that means choosing a diet that has a lot of fiber. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains. Soluble fiber is the type that dissolves in water, while insoluble fiber doesn't. Both are fermented by bacteria in the intestines. Insoluble fiber guards against constipation since it makes your bowel movements regular and helps the GI tract maintain a healthy pH level. Soluble fiber lowers bad cholesterol and regulates glucose. Other foods that contribute to a healthy tummy include yogurt that has probiotics . These are good kinds of yeast and bacteria. Pickled foods, such as kimchi or sauerkraut, also keep your gut healthy. Talk With Your Doctor About Stomach Problems If you have pain in your abdomen that doesn't seem to be going away no matter what you do or you suffer from constipation, diarrhea or both, don't hesitate to go to your doctor to see what's up. When it comes to the gut, serious problems and minor annoyances often share the same signs and symptoms. Also, keep in mind that untreated anxiety can cause gastrointestinal disorders . Exercise Among the many benefits of exercise is a healthier GI system. Not exercising leads to weight gain, and be...

Food allergies have become commonplace. In the 1970s, you never heard of anyone being allergic to nuts. However, schools must be so careful these days because the number of students with a nut allergy is staggering. Gone are the days when peanut butter sandwiches and chili were on the menu. If you have a child that struggles with food sensitivities, then you must always be on guard. Watch for Signs and Symptoms Many people think that an anaphylactic shock is the only sign of a food allergy. However, it's not always such a dramatic display . Your child may break out in a rash if they encounter something that upsets their system. Another common sign of a food allergy is diarrhea and an upset stomach, and the biggest cause of this display is dairy products. Giving a child a glass of milk when they are allergic to it can cause severe stomach cramping and make them run to the bathroom. Airway constriction is the most significant problem, and it's the scariest of all symptoms. When your child's airway is cut off, then you must act quickly. A closed airway means little to no air is getting through. Time is of the essence in these situations. Be Prepared for an Emergency Going out to eat or to a party is just a couple of the little pleasures in life. However, when your child has food allergies, you can't be too careful. Even if there's no dairy or nuts in the food, preparing the food on a surface where those products are made can be dangerous. You should always be prepared for the worst-case scenario. There's nothing worse than seeing your child struggle to breathe. When going out, it’s a good idea to carry more than one EpiPen just to be safe. ...

In today's increasingly health-focused culture, more and more people are turning to superfoods as the cornerstone of a healthy diet. Some of the most popular superfoods include berries, kale, sweet potatoes, salmon, and quinoa. A diet that is rich in superfoods provides a host of health benefits. Here are three of the most pronounced advantages of adopting a diet plan that incorporates superfoods so that you can perform at your best. Boosting Your Immune System One of the most widely known benefits of superfoods is their power to boost the immune system. You cannot perform your best if you are feeling sick and rundown. The exceptionally high level of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in many superfoods keep your immune system running at optimal performance. Good superfoods to consider adding to your diet to improve your immune system function include garlic, ginger, chia seeds, berries, matcha, and kale. By incorporating a wide variety of these foods, you will deliver your body the nutrients that it needs to fight off a myriad of illnesses so that you can continue to feel great. Serious Energy If you are struggling with energy levels, it is likely that you need to re-examine your dietary needs. Superfoods are a great source of natural energy, allowing you to get the boost that you need from Mother Nature as opposed to manufactured chemicals. Nutrient-dense superfoods give you vitality and energy that can help combat the effects of losing sleep. Because they are found naturally in nature, superfoods will also boost your energy levels without leaving you feeling jittery and anxious. Ward Off Long-Term Health Risks In addition to providing a boos...

People choose to eat vegan for many reasons. It’s a healthy way of living that benefits the planet as well as our animal friends. However, those not well-versed in plant-based nutrition might think a vegan diet is boring and limiting. Thankfully, that’s not the case at all. There is a vegan-friendly version of every dish out there. Even vegan pizza exists. Once you have a vegan pizza crust, there are tons of toppings you can put on it to make a pizza that is delicious and very appealing. Here are a few ideas to get you started on your vegan pizza journey Using Sweet Potatoes The possibilities for pizza toppings are limited only by your imagination. Sweet potatoes are great sources of vitamin A and potassium . Surprisingly, due to their savoury and slightly sweet flavour, they also go great on pizza. Roast and sprinkle them onto your pizza for a unique taste. Don’t forget to add a pinch of garlic salt to amp up the flavour. Customizing an Ordered Pizza If you’re not in the mood to cook your own vegan pizza at home, you can always order out. Depending on where you live, most restaurants don’t have a vegan pie on their menu, but you can customize it yourself with a few of these tips. First, ask whether or not they carry an egg-free or dairy-free crust. Secondly, ask about their sauces—some may contain dairy. Next, ask to omit the cheese and meat and add your favourite vegetables. Using Beans & Salsa For a more protein-packed option, you can replace traditional toppings with beans and salsa . Beans are one of the healthiest superfoods out there. They are packed with loads of protein and fibre. They are also extremely filling and can make for a unique culinary experience. For a So...

There is something refreshing about being barefoot. It's the connection between you and Mother Earth that makes you feel grounded. Many people love to feel the sand beneath their toes or walk across the grass in a meadow. While shoes are required in some situations, there is a barefoot movement that is encouraging freedom. Are you ready to toss your shoes and adapt to a barefoot lifestyle? Here are some things you should consider. The Benefits It’s often said that people feel a warm and tingling sensation when they are walking barefoot. The truth is that there is a charge that comes from the ground. Did you know that there are many health benefits to going shoeless? Research shows that kicking your shoe habit can boost your immune system. It can help relieve headaches, ease muscle tension, and even improve your blood pressure . If a person is sick and needs to kick their healing properties into overdrive, a barefoot stroll may help. Some doctors believe that part of the reason why modern life is so plagued with diseases, and such is that society has disconnected from the earth. The body gets a charge of electrons when it’s in sync with nature, and could this be the reason why so many people’s immune systems are out of control? It’s an interesting concept to consider. The Drawbacks While there are many advantages to being barefoot, there are also a few concerns. First, you can step on something that can pierce the skin. Any bacteria in the area can enter your body through that cut. You must always be careful of your surroundings when you are without shoes because glass and sharp objects are everywhere. Outside of wounds, another reason why society wears shoes is to support their muscles and tendons. The strong sup...

Mid-January can make us feel all a bit lost, but it’s time to get back to routine! Now the festive period is done and dusted, it’s time to get back into the flow of things. Which might mean focusing on healthy eating, keeping active, reducing alcohol intake, embarking on your New Year’s Resolutions! All this in mind, we thought we would recommend our January Detox Range! Featuring: Clipper Teas – Detox/Nettle/Dandelion These Herbal Teas can be great for Bloating, Indigestion, Water Retention, Soothing for your tummy after an indulgent Christmas. 3 cups a day in between meals. https://wholefoodearth.com/pages/search-results-page?q=tea&page=2 Together Vitamin D –This Sunshine Vitamin is harder to come by at this time of year, so supplementing in the wintery months is vital. Vitamin D is amazing for your energy levels, bone health, low mood, teeth, hair, skin and nails. Overall Vitality and certainly puts a spring into your step! This product is Vegan Friendly too! (Please consult with your GP/Health Care Professional if unsure or on any Medication) https://wholefoodearth.com/products/together-health-vegan-vitamin-d3-food-supplement-30-capsules Willy’s Kombucha Kombucha is fabulous for your digestion. The Apple Cider Vinegar version is a power packed Detox Drink, rich in natural probiotics. Customers say they feel energised and invigorated with improved digestion. Also great for Colds, Sore Throats, Hair Skin and Nails, Tummy Upset and so much more! The Apple Cider Vinegar Edition comes in three flavours: Apple, Blackcurrant and Raspberry and Introducing Willy’s Ginger Beer – Alcohol Free! Ginger is great for Nausea,...

Eating healthy food and staying active are good practices, but they aren't enough to keep you well. Without a solid sleep routine, you will suffer mentally and physically. There is a multitude of reasons to prioritize quality sleep. Keeping You Happy Without a quality sleep routine, you likely won't sleep well throughout the night. This can lead to mental health issues, like depression. Studies show that both children and adults who don't get enough sleep are more likely to suffer from depression . Having a sleep routine can help your body wind down before bed, so you don't toss and turn when you finally get between the sheets. Lower the lights, stay away from screens and find a way to unwind from stress before you try to rest. A warm bath can work. Meditation or yoga designed to relax you are also great ways to build a quality sleep routine. Keeping You Safe Your body and brain cannot function properly without sleep. Going through life drowsy isn't safe for you or anyone around you. Drowsy driving has been associated with risks just like drunk driving. The relationship between car accidents and hours slept has been studied and determined to be significant. You simply cannot overcome the effects of sleep deprivation by will. Getting quality rest is the only way to make sure your mind, body and emotions function properly to keep you safe. Simply being in bed is not the same as getting quality sleep. A sleep study can often reveal if you are truly sleeping well through the night or tossing and turning instead. Sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome often interrupt sleep for many people, but it's possible to suffer from these problems without knowing it. If you stay ...

A healthy diet is important at any age. As you age, your diet can become even more important as maturing bodies tend to put on a little weight. Dieting to lose weight is a little more complex for older adults, and special attention should be given to make sure your eating plan is adequate and healthy. Talk to Your Doctor Anyone should get medical advice when beginning a diet to shed pounds, but older adults, in particular, need to visit their physicians. In addition to some routine tests, a doctor can put the elderly person in touch with a nutritionist who can further guide the dieting process. A dietician can help to ensure that older clients are reaching daily minimum nutrition needs such as protein, vitamins, and calories. A good nutritionist can also help you avoid the common dangers of restricted diets. It is recommended that your meal plates look like rainbows with a variety of colourful fruits, vegetables, protein sources, and starches. While calorie needs may decrease as you age, the daily requirement for nutrients such as protein increases. The goal should be dropping pounds while hanging on to your vitality and health. Know When to Stop Working closely with a doctor and a dietician can help an older patient see when he or she might be carrying a weight-loss diet too far. If you notice any of the signs of malnutrition , you should temporarily stop. While the goal may be to drop a few pounds or to reduce your sodium and cholestero...

Food is not just delicious, but it can also have a significant effect on your overall health. From weight gain to high blood pressure, making the wrong food choices can have dire consequences. However, there are also plenty of foods that actually have many health benefits and that can help heal your body as well. If you are suffering from clogged arteries are some other type of ailment, here are some foods that can help thin your blood . Turmeric According to Abels &amp; Annes , blood thinner medications such as Xarelto can have dangerous side effects. One of the worst side effects of taking drugs like this is that ending the treatment may result in even more blood clots than before. Thankfully, there are other choices that you can make that don't have any negative side effects and that are perfectly healthy as well as natural. Turmeric is an excellent spice to add to your pantry as it has many great benefits such as helping with skin discoloration and thinning out the blood. Because of the anticoagulant properties found in turmeric, taking just a dose of this spice each day can help to regulate the blood flow. Vitamin E When most people think of Vitamin E, they think of the skin, nails, and hair. However, Vitamin E isn't just good for your outer appearance; it has lots of health benefits, such as blood thinning. Foods that are packed with Vitamin E, like sunflower seeds , <a href="https://wholefoodearth.com/coll...

Healthier eating, along with an overall healthier lifestyle, has become a topic of intense interest as incidences of diseases and conditions associated with sedentary lifestyles and poor diets continue to rise. Humans did not evolve to eat so much processed food, and scientists have come to understand better the harmful health effects of doing so. As an alternative to conventional American diets, many people who live in cities have turned to organic urban farming. As you'll learn in this article, urban farming does not just result in more wholesome dishes at the dinner table—the benefits extend well beyond the superior nutrition of the urban-farmed crops themselves. Increases Food Security The term “food desert” has become popularized in recent years to describe the unstable access to quality food that many people in cities experience. Often, city dwellers are unable to locate fresh produce and instead must rely on packaged food from convenience stores or fast food. This has huge health ramifications, including increasing obesity rates, lifestyle diseases, such as diabetes and even vitamin and mineral deficiencies, in some cases. The health effects of living in a food desert are particularly dangerous for children. A community garden in which members grow their own organic crops is a great way to deliver clean, fresh food to communities starved for nutrition. Land Use Living in a concrete jungle can be challenging. The landscape of an inner-city is vastly different from what our ancestors evolved in, meaning that it is quite unnatural. A strategically placed urban organic garden can replace some of that natural feel that many cities lack. Additionally, organic farming offers environmental benefits. For example, manure as fertilizer results in increased carbon levels in the soil...

If you’re trying to live a healthier lifestyle, it all starts with what you put in your mouth. Unfortunately, with today’s prevalence of heavily processed and packaged convenience foods, eating healthier can almost seem like a chore. Being mindful of what you eat is certainly less convenient than opting for processed convenience foods, but the health payoff is absolutely worth it. Curious about what you can do to start being more mindful about the food you consume? Take a look below for a few helpful tips. Check the Ingredients Label When you head to the supermarket to pick up groceries for the week, pay close attention to what you place in your cart. Rather than mindlessly tossing in packaged and processed foods, take a moment to read the ingredient labels before making your decision about what you will purchase. You may be surprised to learn that foods you once thought were healthy actually contain several ingredients that have no place in your body. It’s important to not only check the nutrition facts, but also read the ingredients list . Try not to buy food that has several ingredients and try to stay away from food with ingredients you can't pronounce. Ideally, you should stick to the outer perimeter of your local supermarket as that tends to be the area where the most healthful food items are displayed. Buy Locally or Grow Yourself When you consume conventionally grown produce, you also consume health-harming pesticides and other chemicals. Plus, conventional produce often travels halfway around the world before it reaches your local supermarket, meaning your food might be weeks old by the time you eat it. Rather than buying mass-produced fruits and vegetables, purchasing locall...

The importance of breakfast is well-known, but not everyone has an appetite when the alarm clock goes off. However, it's good to put something into your body, and certain beverages can really help with alertness. These are some of the top drinks for starting your mornings off right. Coffee Nothing says "morning" like the smell of coffee. Not only is it full of caffeine, but it's also a very sophisticated beverage if done right. Instead of wasting money on substandard coffee from gas stations or fast food places, invest in good beans and quality equipment. According to Biarte , coffee beans that are washed during the process tend to be of higher quality. Whether you like the stronger taste of black coffee or prefer to add soy milk or sugar, coffee can be a bean-brewed delight of every morning. Yerba Mate If you don't care for coffee but still want a jolt in the morning, never forget that tea can be a great source of caffeine. According to Taragui , Yerba Mate, a South American herbal tea, offers several health benefits and has been gaining traction as an alternative to coffee. Stimulating, full of antioxidants, and with a distinct taste, Yerba Mate can take some getting used to, but adapting to the taste is part of the pleasure of drinking it. There are different ways to brew Yerba Mate, such as with tea bags and using tea leaves. Matcha Tea Another great tea to drink in the morning is matcha. A type of green tea, matcha also contains many antioxidants as well as caffeine. Its aroma and pleasing taste can help you to feel awake but also at ease when your day commences. If you have a weakness for soy or almond milk, you might add some to make your own matcha latte. Water <a h...

Indoor cleaning products have long interested public health policymakers and medical researchers as sources of irritation and even disease. The most concerning ingredients in common cleaning products are called volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are responsible for the most noticeable and drastic health effects caused by cleaning products, although they are not the only offending components. Products that can potentially harm you and your family include oven cleaners, air fresheners, detergents, dishwashing liquids, and polishes. In addition to wreaking havoc on health, these same products also degrade the environment and contribute to climate change and air pollution, two huge problems that you can help address by switching to natural alternatives. Here are a few more reasons why you should use natural cleaners around your house and ditch the chemicals. Harsh Chemicals Are Unhealthy The unnatural chemicals popular in conventional cleaning products can cause respiratory problems, especially in children and the elderly. They can irritate the nose, throat, and eyes, and potentially cause cancer. Research continues into just how much these chemicals contribute to deadly diseases. Still, all the evidence so far confirms that they are definite contributors to health problems in people and pets. According to Diamond Injury Law , even household cleaners can lead to serious chemical burns. It’s possible that you could use these chemicals in your home and avoid any major health impacts, but why roll the dice when better alternatives are out there? They Smell Better What the human nose finds aromatic is a product of millions of years of evolution. It is natural to find natural smells pleasant and to avoid chemi...

Some potable drinking water still contains contaminants such as chemicals that kill microbes and bacteria. These treatment chemicals may leave behind an unpleasant taste, and many people want to avoid extra exposure to cleansing agents. You may also be concerned about other types of undetected toxins in your water. However, water filtration and purification systems may be able to help you. Here are several common options that you may consider depending on your available resources. Carbon Filters Carbon filters clean contaminants from water such as chlorine by passing it through a bed of activated carbon. They also remove heavy metals such as lead, some pesticides, radon, and some bacteria. The bonus is they leave the minerals in the water that are healthy. According to Pure Water Systems , there are several different carbon filters available, including pitchers, under-the-sink filters, faucet mounts, and refrigerator filters. These filters produce fresh-tasting, chemical-free drinking water. It makes a huge difference in the taste of the water itself, as well as the beverages you make with it, such as coffee and tea. Boiling Boiling water is the time-tested way to make water safe to drink. It kills bacteria and other pathogens, but does not remove minerals. It does evaporate some chlorine and may improve the taste of the water. If you are at a lower elevation, to boil water until it is safe to drink requires a stove top or fire. After the water reaches a rolling boil, Boil Water Watch advi...