Some people are habitual dieters. This means that they are always looking for ways to shed the excess and unwanted pounds. Some people diet quite successfully. However, other people fall into common dieting traps that prevent them from losing the weight. If you are trying a new diet or you are looking to live a healthier life by changing the way you eat, here are some common mistakes that many people make when they are watching their weight.
Eating too many low-fat or low calorie foods: If you are dieting, you often think that eating low-fat or low-calorie foods is the way to go. While it is certainly true that it is better to choose a low-fat food over a high-fat food, the mistake comes when you eat too many low-fat foods for the simple reason that they are low-fat. You have to remember that even low-fat foods add a bit when it comes to calories. For example, if you are considering eating a chocolate chip cookie, you may have two choices, a low-fat cookie and a regular full fat cookie. One regular chocolate chip cookie may be 150 calories and 6 grams of fat and a low-fat cookie may very well be 150 calories and 2 grams of fat. This may lead you to believe that you can eat two or three of the low-fat cookies. But one look at the calories will tell you that eating three add up to 450 calories! The normal person that is dieting will aim for eating anywhere from 1200-2000 calories a day. You can see that 450 calories takes a big chunk out of your daily calorie allowance. If you plan on eating low fat foods, you should treat them as any other food and eat them in moderation.
Not exercising: Most people just do not love to exercise. However, if you are actively trying to lose weight, some form of physical activity each day is a necessity. You do not have to be a marathon runner in order to get the right amount of exercise each day. Start off slow by walking a couple of times around your block and then build up from there. Not exercising is the worst thing you can do for any diet. Make sure that if you are trying to lose weight, you add in exercise to help you shed the pounds faster.
Splurging or rewarding yourself with food: Everyone, whether dieting or not, deserves an occasional treat here and there. However, if you are serious about your weight loss, then you need to take a hard look at these little splurges that you may take. When dieting experts recommend that you splurge every now and then, that doesn't mean every day or even once a week. Instead, it means that you should eat a small amount of your favorite food a couple of times a month. It also does not mean that you can eat an entire pepperoni pizza on your splurging days. One or two slices are all that you should have. Moderation is the key to any successful dieting program. Another common mistake that people make when they diet is to reward themselves with food. This does nothing for your diet. So if you are looking to reward yourself for a small victory in your weight, then consider buying yourself a new pair of shoes, getting a manicure or buying a new book. These types of rewards will not cause you to gain weight.
When you are serious about losing weight, then you need to stay focused and motivated. Understanding the common dieting traps will help you do this and will also help you lose the weight and keep it off.
Be the first to hear about new natural products plus health and wellness tips, subscribe to get your FREE updates now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au.
Nov 2, 2009
Sep 14, 2009
Is Your Home Killing You?
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Australians now spend more than 90%of their time indoors: at home, at work, at school and as we travel in cars and public transport. It makes sense then to create our indoor spaces as healthy and safe as we can for our families.
Numerous everyday items found in and around our homes such as household cleaners, carpets, furniture, personal care products and pesticides can produce chemicals that when combined together can reduce the quality of the air inside our home and may have impacts on our health.
Many modern day illnesses are increasingly being linked to chemicals that we are exposed to in our homes. It is now widely recognised that babies and young children are at greater risk from chemical exposures, which could impact on their health and ability to learn.
What Makes A House Toxic?
CEILING
Lead contaminated dust which can contribute to lead poisoning can accumulate in walls, ceilings and under floors.
LIVING ROOM
Carpets, furnishings, paint and chemical cleaning products can give off volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are released into the air over time. Often described as that pleasant, "new smell," VOCs can be harmful. Short-term exposure to VOCs can cause headaches, nausea and irritate eyes, throat and nose.
KITCHEN
Unflued gas appliances are major emitters of indoor air pollutants (including nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide). Some drain cleaners and oven cleaners contain corrosive chemicals that can burn skin and mucous membranes.
BATHROOM
Air fresheners, disinfectants, window cleaners and anti-mold cleaners often contain chemicals such as solvents, bleach, ammonia and chlorine.
Personal care products such as deodorants, perfumes, aftershave and hairspray can also contribute to the chemicals indoors.
BEDROOM
Dry cleaned clothes, new mattresses and particleboard furniture can give off chemical fumes.
FLOORS
Pest treatments applied under floors can give off fumes that may enter inside and contaminate the soil outside.
GARDEN
Some garden chemicals and pesticides used indoors or outdoors are powerful poisons.
Six Steps to a Healthier Home
1. Open windows and doors to “air out” rooms well
2. Use natural and organic personal care products.
3. Replace fume emitting furnishings and coverings
4. Eliminate chemical pesticides from the home and go organic in the garden
5. Shift to natural cleaning products
6. Renovate with natural and low-toxic materials
Public speaker, author and ambassador for the next generation, Keeta Gibson publishes the popular e-newsletter from Non Toxic Life, your online eco-store for pure, natural everyday items and earthwise goods. Get your FREE tips on health, wellbeing and everything environmentally friendly now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au.
Numerous everyday items found in and around our homes such as household cleaners, carpets, furniture, personal care products and pesticides can produce chemicals that when combined together can reduce the quality of the air inside our home and may have impacts on our health.
Many modern day illnesses are increasingly being linked to chemicals that we are exposed to in our homes. It is now widely recognised that babies and young children are at greater risk from chemical exposures, which could impact on their health and ability to learn.
What Makes A House Toxic?
CEILING
Lead contaminated dust which can contribute to lead poisoning can accumulate in walls, ceilings and under floors.
LIVING ROOM
Carpets, furnishings, paint and chemical cleaning products can give off volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are released into the air over time. Often described as that pleasant, "new smell," VOCs can be harmful. Short-term exposure to VOCs can cause headaches, nausea and irritate eyes, throat and nose.
KITCHEN
Unflued gas appliances are major emitters of indoor air pollutants (including nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide). Some drain cleaners and oven cleaners contain corrosive chemicals that can burn skin and mucous membranes.
BATHROOM
Air fresheners, disinfectants, window cleaners and anti-mold cleaners often contain chemicals such as solvents, bleach, ammonia and chlorine.
Personal care products such as deodorants, perfumes, aftershave and hairspray can also contribute to the chemicals indoors.
BEDROOM
Dry cleaned clothes, new mattresses and particleboard furniture can give off chemical fumes.
FLOORS
Pest treatments applied under floors can give off fumes that may enter inside and contaminate the soil outside.
GARDEN
Some garden chemicals and pesticides used indoors or outdoors are powerful poisons.
Six Steps to a Healthier Home
1. Open windows and doors to “air out” rooms well
2. Use natural and organic personal care products.
3. Replace fume emitting furnishings and coverings
4. Eliminate chemical pesticides from the home and go organic in the garden
5. Shift to natural cleaning products
6. Renovate with natural and low-toxic materials
Public speaker, author and ambassador for the next generation, Keeta Gibson publishes the popular e-newsletter from Non Toxic Life, your online eco-store for pure, natural everyday items and earthwise goods. Get your FREE tips on health, wellbeing and everything environmentally friendly now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au.
Sep 7, 2009
Mouthwash Linked to Cancer
Leading independent experts have published their findings in the Dental Journal of Australia and stated that there is now "sufficient evidence" that "alcohol-containing mouthwashes contribute to the increased risk of development of oral cancer".
The ethanol in mouthwash is thought to allow cancer-causing substances to permeate the lining of the mouth more easily and cause harm.
Acetaldehyde, a toxic by-product of alcohol that may accumulate in the oral cavity when swished around the mouth, is also believed to be carcinogenic.
Listerine, the nation's (Australia's) biggest-selling mouthwash and a brand endorsed by the Australian Dental Association (ADA), contains as much as 26 per cent alcohol.
Use organic certified mouthwash to kill bacteria and leave your breath smelling sweet and fresh!
Public speaker, author and ambassador for the next generation, Keeta Gibson publishes the popular e-newsletter from Non Toxic Life, your online eco-store for pure, natural everyday products and earthwise goods. Get your FREE tips on health and wellbeing and everything environmentally friendly now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au
The ethanol in mouthwash is thought to allow cancer-causing substances to permeate the lining of the mouth more easily and cause harm.
Acetaldehyde, a toxic by-product of alcohol that may accumulate in the oral cavity when swished around the mouth, is also believed to be carcinogenic.
Listerine, the nation's (Australia's) biggest-selling mouthwash and a brand endorsed by the Australian Dental Association (ADA), contains as much as 26 per cent alcohol.
Use organic certified mouthwash to kill bacteria and leave your breath smelling sweet and fresh!
Public speaker, author and ambassador for the next generation, Keeta Gibson publishes the popular e-newsletter from Non Toxic Life, your online eco-store for pure, natural everyday products and earthwise goods. Get your FREE tips on health and wellbeing and everything environmentally friendly now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au
Aug 19, 2009
Why You Should Be Concerned About Teflon
The potentially toxic chemicals in non stick products are perfluorochemicals, which use the elements fluorine and carbon to make non-stick and stain-resistant coatings. Perfluorochemicals have a molecular structure that prevents them from binding with water or oil, which is why they are so useful in numerous consumer items – but there’s a catch!
Scientists are now focusing on two members of this chemical family for potential toxicity: perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA for short, and perfluorooctanyl sulfonate, (PFOS). The chemicals have been used to make some of the world's most famous brand names, including Teflon and Scotchgard. They can be found in such items as non stick cookware, water or stain resistant clothing and carpets, some fast-food wrappers (which resist grease), pizza boxes, microwave popcorn containers, nail polishes and shaving cream.
DuPont Co. said its Teflon frying pans and other kitchenware are safe if used properly (at temperatures they are intended to be used). However, in two to five minutes on a conventional stovetop, cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces can exceed temperatures at which the coating breaks apart and emits toxic particles and gases. These toxins are linked to pet bird deaths and an unknown number of human illnesses each year, according to tests commissioned by Environmental Working Group (EWG). DuPont studies show that the Teflon off-gases toxic particulates at 230°C/446°F. At 360°C/680°F Teflon pans release at least six toxic gases, including two carcinogens, two global pollutants, and MFA, a chemical lethal to humans at low doses. At temperatures that DuPont scientists claim are reached on stovetop drip pans (538°C/1000°F), their non-stick coatings break down to a chemical warfare agent known as PFIB, and a chemical analog of the WWII nerve gas phosgene. For the past fifty years DuPont has claimed that their Teflon coatings do not emit hazardous chemicals through normal use. In a recent press release, DuPont wrote that "significant decomposition of the coating will occur only when temperatures exceed about 348°C/660°F. These temperatures alone are well above the normal cooking range." These new tests show that cookware exceeds these temperatures and turns toxic through the common act of preheating a pan, on a burner set on high.
Tips on Safer Cookware:
After nearly five decades of extensive consumer and industrial use, some of the chemicals behind the popular brand names have been linked to cancers and even deaths in laboratory animals. When heated, cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces emits fumes that can kill birds and potentially sicken people. You can avoid exposures to the fumes from Teflon and other non-stick cookware by phasing out your home use of these products. If you can afford to replace your non-stick cookware now, do so.
1) Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a terrific alternative to a non-stick cooking surface. Most chefs agree that stainless steel browns foods better than non-stick surfaces.
2) Gastrolux Cookware
It is the only range of non-stick cookware we have found that is tested not to produce toxic emissions, and has a non-stick surface that really works well. Click here to check out our range of Gastrolux cookware.
3) Cast iron
Cast iron remains a great alternative to non-stick cooking surfaces. Cast iron can be pre-heated to temperatures that will brown meat and will withstand oven temperatures well above what is considered safe for non-stick pans.
For a printable PDF file outlining cooking temperatures in telfon pans and the corresponding chemical release from EWG.
For more information on non stick cookware see this article from the Natural News team - Non-Stick Cookware Chemicals Cause 150 Percent Increase in Infertility
Scientists are now focusing on two members of this chemical family for potential toxicity: perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA for short, and perfluorooctanyl sulfonate, (PFOS). The chemicals have been used to make some of the world's most famous brand names, including Teflon and Scotchgard. They can be found in such items as non stick cookware, water or stain resistant clothing and carpets, some fast-food wrappers (which resist grease), pizza boxes, microwave popcorn containers, nail polishes and shaving cream.
DuPont Co. said its Teflon frying pans and other kitchenware are safe if used properly (at temperatures they are intended to be used). However, in two to five minutes on a conventional stovetop, cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces can exceed temperatures at which the coating breaks apart and emits toxic particles and gases. These toxins are linked to pet bird deaths and an unknown number of human illnesses each year, according to tests commissioned by Environmental Working Group (EWG). DuPont studies show that the Teflon off-gases toxic particulates at 230°C/446°F. At 360°C/680°F Teflon pans release at least six toxic gases, including two carcinogens, two global pollutants, and MFA, a chemical lethal to humans at low doses. At temperatures that DuPont scientists claim are reached on stovetop drip pans (538°C/1000°F), their non-stick coatings break down to a chemical warfare agent known as PFIB, and a chemical analog of the WWII nerve gas phosgene. For the past fifty years DuPont has claimed that their Teflon coatings do not emit hazardous chemicals through normal use. In a recent press release, DuPont wrote that "significant decomposition of the coating will occur only when temperatures exceed about 348°C/660°F. These temperatures alone are well above the normal cooking range." These new tests show that cookware exceeds these temperatures and turns toxic through the common act of preheating a pan, on a burner set on high.
Tips on Safer Cookware:
After nearly five decades of extensive consumer and industrial use, some of the chemicals behind the popular brand names have been linked to cancers and even deaths in laboratory animals. When heated, cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces emits fumes that can kill birds and potentially sicken people. You can avoid exposures to the fumes from Teflon and other non-stick cookware by phasing out your home use of these products. If you can afford to replace your non-stick cookware now, do so.
1) Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a terrific alternative to a non-stick cooking surface. Most chefs agree that stainless steel browns foods better than non-stick surfaces.
2) Gastrolux Cookware
It is the only range of non-stick cookware we have found that is tested not to produce toxic emissions, and has a non-stick surface that really works well. Click here to check out our range of Gastrolux cookware.
3) Cast iron
Cast iron remains a great alternative to non-stick cooking surfaces. Cast iron can be pre-heated to temperatures that will brown meat and will withstand oven temperatures well above what is considered safe for non-stick pans.
For a printable PDF file outlining cooking temperatures in telfon pans and the corresponding chemical release from EWG.
For more information on non stick cookware see this article from the Natural News team - Non-Stick Cookware Chemicals Cause 150 Percent Increase in Infertility
Aug 10, 2009
Which Ingredients Should I Be Concerned About?
There are many toxic ingredients used in a large number of common products that have been found to be unsafe. Here are some of the most common ones that should be avoided at all costs.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): one of the most commonly used foaming agents found in shampoos, body washes, bubble bath, toothpaste and cosmetic cleansers. Also used in car washes, garage floor cleaner and engine degreasers.
o Side effects may cause improper eye development in children and is a skin irritant.
o SLS can damage the immune system causing separation of skin layers and severe irritation of the skin. On the scalp, long term exposure to SLS can cause hair loss due to corrosion of hair follicles.
Propylene Glycol: petrochemical solvent used as a humectant. A humectant is a substance that helps retain moisture content. It prevents things from drying out. Used in anti-freeze, brake and hydraulic fluid and pet food. Also in many cosmetics and personal care items.
o Readily absorbed in the skin and scalp. No value to the skin, this ingredient is included ensuring the cream or lotion glides on skin easily.
o Propylene Glycol accumulates in the heart, liver and kidneys and weakens the immune system.
o It inhibits skin cell growth in human tests and can damage cell membranes causing rashes, dry skin and surface damage.
Alcohol: High alcohol content particularly in mouthwashes, should be avoided. A 1991 survey of people with mouth, tongue or throat cancers suggests that the use of high-alcohol (more than 25%) mouthwash contributes to increased risk of these tumours.
Fluoride: found in toothpaste and dental care products. It is poison to humans when ingested over long periods as it accumulates in our body tissues. “Fluoride is a known carcinogen and teratogen, decreases fertility in women and is not approved by the FDA in the United States. Fluoride has been removed from various animal feed because it was causing birth defects in offspring. The growing scientific consensus is that fluoride provides no benefit to teeth but does cause damage to the bones and organs in the body.” P. Dingle. Cosmetics and Personal Care, Dangerous Beauty. 1999 Pp 17.
TALC: Is associated with an increase in ovarian cancer and respiratory illness. Talc should never be used on babies both because of its carcinogenetic and acute respiratory distress it can cause from inhalation.
Formaldehyde: The chemical name is Formalin and this is often printed on labels. Used mainly as a preservative in shampoos, baby washes, mascara, creams, bubble baths, anti dandruff shampoos and some deodorants. A common ingredient in fabric softeners and is used in glue preparations for carpets, panel boards and melamine. It is known to cause eye, nose and throat irritation, coughing, asthma attacks, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes, nose bleeds, headaches and dizziness. Be sure to open doors and windows for airflow and avoid products containing this toxic ingredient.
Diethanolamine (DEA) Triethenolamine (TEA) Monoethanolamine (MEA) Are readily absorbed through the skin and accumulate in organs. DEA, TEA & MEA are skin and eye irritants. When found in products containing nitrates they can chemically convert to form nitrosamines which are potentially carcinogenic.
Toluene: A very common solvent found in nail enamels, spray cans, hair spray, hair gel perfumes and fragrances. It triggers asthma attacks and can cause asthma in previously healthy people. Is also a neurotoxin (adverse nervous system effects). Can cause liver damage and be an endocrine disrupter.
Aluminium: Found in antiperspirants. Links to Alzheimer’s disease continue to be explored and debated. It has been identified as a neurotoxin which can actively interfere with many chemical reactions in the brain.
PEG Laureth (ethoxylated) may contain dioxane which is potentially cancer causing, estrogen mimic, and endocrine disrupter.
Check your bathroom with this list now! If any of your products contain these ingredients it is your responsibility to learn more.
References and recommended reading:
Cosmetic and Personal Care, Dangerous Beauty: Peter Dingle & Toni Brown, The Chemical Maze: Bill Stratham, What’s in your cosmetics: Aubrey Hampton, Organica Press
Public speaker, author and ambassador for the next generation, Keeta Gibson publishes the popular e-newsletter from Non Toxic Life, your online eco-store for pure, natural everyday products and earthwise goods. Get your FREE tips on health and wellbeing and everything environmentally friendly now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): one of the most commonly used foaming agents found in shampoos, body washes, bubble bath, toothpaste and cosmetic cleansers. Also used in car washes, garage floor cleaner and engine degreasers.
o Side effects may cause improper eye development in children and is a skin irritant.
o SLS can damage the immune system causing separation of skin layers and severe irritation of the skin. On the scalp, long term exposure to SLS can cause hair loss due to corrosion of hair follicles.
Propylene Glycol: petrochemical solvent used as a humectant. A humectant is a substance that helps retain moisture content. It prevents things from drying out. Used in anti-freeze, brake and hydraulic fluid and pet food. Also in many cosmetics and personal care items.
o Readily absorbed in the skin and scalp. No value to the skin, this ingredient is included ensuring the cream or lotion glides on skin easily.
o Propylene Glycol accumulates in the heart, liver and kidneys and weakens the immune system.
o It inhibits skin cell growth in human tests and can damage cell membranes causing rashes, dry skin and surface damage.
Alcohol: High alcohol content particularly in mouthwashes, should be avoided. A 1991 survey of people with mouth, tongue or throat cancers suggests that the use of high-alcohol (more than 25%) mouthwash contributes to increased risk of these tumours.
Fluoride: found in toothpaste and dental care products. It is poison to humans when ingested over long periods as it accumulates in our body tissues. “Fluoride is a known carcinogen and teratogen, decreases fertility in women and is not approved by the FDA in the United States. Fluoride has been removed from various animal feed because it was causing birth defects in offspring. The growing scientific consensus is that fluoride provides no benefit to teeth but does cause damage to the bones and organs in the body.” P. Dingle. Cosmetics and Personal Care, Dangerous Beauty. 1999 Pp 17.
TALC: Is associated with an increase in ovarian cancer and respiratory illness. Talc should never be used on babies both because of its carcinogenetic and acute respiratory distress it can cause from inhalation.
Formaldehyde: The chemical name is Formalin and this is often printed on labels. Used mainly as a preservative in shampoos, baby washes, mascara, creams, bubble baths, anti dandruff shampoos and some deodorants. A common ingredient in fabric softeners and is used in glue preparations for carpets, panel boards and melamine. It is known to cause eye, nose and throat irritation, coughing, asthma attacks, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes, nose bleeds, headaches and dizziness. Be sure to open doors and windows for airflow and avoid products containing this toxic ingredient.
Diethanolamine (DEA) Triethenolamine (TEA) Monoethanolamine (MEA) Are readily absorbed through the skin and accumulate in organs. DEA, TEA & MEA are skin and eye irritants. When found in products containing nitrates they can chemically convert to form nitrosamines which are potentially carcinogenic.
Toluene: A very common solvent found in nail enamels, spray cans, hair spray, hair gel perfumes and fragrances. It triggers asthma attacks and can cause asthma in previously healthy people. Is also a neurotoxin (adverse nervous system effects). Can cause liver damage and be an endocrine disrupter.
Aluminium: Found in antiperspirants. Links to Alzheimer’s disease continue to be explored and debated. It has been identified as a neurotoxin which can actively interfere with many chemical reactions in the brain.
PEG Laureth (ethoxylated) may contain dioxane which is potentially cancer causing, estrogen mimic, and endocrine disrupter.
Check your bathroom with this list now! If any of your products contain these ingredients it is your responsibility to learn more.
References and recommended reading:
Cosmetic and Personal Care, Dangerous Beauty: Peter Dingle & Toni Brown, The Chemical Maze: Bill Stratham, What’s in your cosmetics: Aubrey Hampton, Organica Press
Public speaker, author and ambassador for the next generation, Keeta Gibson publishes the popular e-newsletter from Non Toxic Life, your online eco-store for pure, natural everyday products and earthwise goods. Get your FREE tips on health and wellbeing and everything environmentally friendly now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au
Jul 31, 2009
Six Savvy Secrets to Staying Stimulated in your Plan for Fitness
Having trouble staying stimulated to get fit? Follow these six savvy secrets to staying stimulated in your plan for fitness. These secrets are used by people all over the world to stay focused and motivated to eat healthy, exercise, get healthy and fit.
Think Small
Instead of eating three large meals a day, eat five or six small meals throughout the day to keep your metabolism working around the clock. Remember that your stomach is only about the size of your fist, so eat small portions frequently rather than three large meals during the day. Protein shakes, granola bars, yoghurt and salads are great foods for quick small meals.
Not sure how to control portion size? Choose pre-portioned meals to make sure that the portion sizes are correct and the calorie count is low. Eating five or six small meals instead of three large meals has been proven to help weight loss and will keep your energy high throughout the day.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking water is a major factor in staying fit and losing weight. Studies have shown that most people don’t drink nearly enough water during the day. Replace high calorie soft drinks and energy drinks with plain or sugar free flavored water to help keep your mind sharp and your body energized throughout the day. Drink at least two glasses of water an hour or so before you workout and make sure you stay hydrated during and after your workout. Your body needs lots of water to function efficiently.
Take a Walk
Can’t get to the gym? Too tired after work for an extreme workout? Don’t skip the exercise, just tone it down. Taking a 30 minute walk is a quick, easy way to get in some activity when a hard core workout just isn’t going to happen. Park the car as far away from the office door or the grocery store as possible, or take a walk around the block, just get moving. Any exercise is better than no exercise, and even a short walk can make you feel better so that you don’t reach for a high fat coffee drink or doughnut to energize you to keep working.
Bike to Work
Tired of sitting in traffic commuting to the office everyday? Can’t find the time to exercise each day? Buy a high quality bike and start biking to work. Keep some work appropriate clothes at the office along with a small toiletry kit, or pack a suit in a backpack and get your exercise biking to work. You will feel better, you will be more energized during the day, and you spend all that time sitting in traffic jams everyday. Biking to work is a great way to get daily exercise even when you’re busy, and it helps the environment too.
Get a Dog
Need motivation to go out walking or running instead of sitting in the house? Get a dog. Dogs are fantastic companions, and having to take the dog out will force you off the couch and out of the house. Taking the dog to the dog park on weekends will be a great way to meet new people and be active.
Take the Stairs
When you’re really crunched for time and you don’t even have time to squeeze in a walk, take the stairs. Use a restroom on a different floor or head outside for some fresh air during the day to give yourself a reason to walk up and down the stairs. A few trips up and down the stairs at the office each day will help you stay active and motivated.
If you know someone who could be interested in this information, you have my permission to pass it on. This article was prepared by Keeta Gibson, public speaker, author and Carbon Reduction Coach from Non Toxic Life, your online eco-store for biodegradable, compostable and earthwise goods.
Think Small
Instead of eating three large meals a day, eat five or six small meals throughout the day to keep your metabolism working around the clock. Remember that your stomach is only about the size of your fist, so eat small portions frequently rather than three large meals during the day. Protein shakes, granola bars, yoghurt and salads are great foods for quick small meals.
Not sure how to control portion size? Choose pre-portioned meals to make sure that the portion sizes are correct and the calorie count is low. Eating five or six small meals instead of three large meals has been proven to help weight loss and will keep your energy high throughout the day.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking water is a major factor in staying fit and losing weight. Studies have shown that most people don’t drink nearly enough water during the day. Replace high calorie soft drinks and energy drinks with plain or sugar free flavored water to help keep your mind sharp and your body energized throughout the day. Drink at least two glasses of water an hour or so before you workout and make sure you stay hydrated during and after your workout. Your body needs lots of water to function efficiently.
Take a Walk
Can’t get to the gym? Too tired after work for an extreme workout? Don’t skip the exercise, just tone it down. Taking a 30 minute walk is a quick, easy way to get in some activity when a hard core workout just isn’t going to happen. Park the car as far away from the office door or the grocery store as possible, or take a walk around the block, just get moving. Any exercise is better than no exercise, and even a short walk can make you feel better so that you don’t reach for a high fat coffee drink or doughnut to energize you to keep working.
Bike to Work
Tired of sitting in traffic commuting to the office everyday? Can’t find the time to exercise each day? Buy a high quality bike and start biking to work. Keep some work appropriate clothes at the office along with a small toiletry kit, or pack a suit in a backpack and get your exercise biking to work. You will feel better, you will be more energized during the day, and you spend all that time sitting in traffic jams everyday. Biking to work is a great way to get daily exercise even when you’re busy, and it helps the environment too.
Get a Dog
Need motivation to go out walking or running instead of sitting in the house? Get a dog. Dogs are fantastic companions, and having to take the dog out will force you off the couch and out of the house. Taking the dog to the dog park on weekends will be a great way to meet new people and be active.
Take the Stairs
When you’re really crunched for time and you don’t even have time to squeeze in a walk, take the stairs. Use a restroom on a different floor or head outside for some fresh air during the day to give yourself a reason to walk up and down the stairs. A few trips up and down the stairs at the office each day will help you stay active and motivated.
If you know someone who could be interested in this information, you have my permission to pass it on. This article was prepared by Keeta Gibson, public speaker, author and Carbon Reduction Coach from Non Toxic Life, your online eco-store for biodegradable, compostable and earthwise goods.
Jul 29, 2009
Swine Flu Fact Sheet - A Must Read For Everyone
Swine Flu -
Why the media needs to ask more questions
Sunday, July 26th, 2009 - For Immediate Release:
Swine Flu Fact Sheet:
The only way to conquer fear is with information
Governments around the world are scrambling to find a solution to the potential problems that may be caused by the current H1N1 'swine flu' pandemic. From its origins in Mexico in April of this year, the panic caused by this virus - a hybrid of viral DNA from pigs, birds and humans - has grown to the point where logic and science have been forgotten in a mad race to do 'something' about this situation.
There is an adage that states, those who forget the lessons of history are doomed to repeat them. In an effort to keep us from making the same mistakes we have in the past - mistakes which have been extremely costly in terms of financial burden and lives lost or health damaged - the Australian Vaccination Network has tried to gather together information to help you to ask the questions you need to find answers to and the knowledge necessary to make intelligent decisions about the swine flu vaccine. It is also an excellent idea to download the flyer from Pandemic Flu online. This web site is a great resource of constantly updated information on this topic.
History:
Between 1918 and 1920, immediately after World War I, it is estimated that as many as 50 million people around the world may have died from Swine Flu. Most of those whose deaths were attributed to influenza - 95% and more - did not die from the flu but were victims of bacterial pneumonia - an easily treatable illness for which antibiotics are very effective.(1) Had this outbreak occurred today rather than almost 100 years ago, the mortality and morbidity statistics would have been very different.
In addition, the strain of flu which was in circulation at that time was completely different to the strain we are seeing now.
In 1976, a soldier at Fort Dix NJ (USA), Private Lewis, left his sick bed to go on a forced march - and collapsed and died from what was diagnosed at the time as swine flu. Initially, it was thought that up to 500 other soldiers at Fort Dix had also contracted the disease. That figure was revised down to 4 confirmed cases with no other deaths. In fact, there were no other cases reported anywhere else in the world.(2)
Only one person died of swine flu in 1976, but more than 4,000 were seriously injured by the vaccine with 25 confirmed deaths. That vaccine, like the current shot, was rushed through without proper testing. The result was more than $3.5 billion in compensation claims in the US - and this is for a vaccination campaign which was cut short only 10 weeks after it started which was meant to protect against an outbreak which never occurred. The only outcome to this vaccination campaign was a large number of permanently injured citizens and an enduring distrust of influenza vaccinations.(3,4)
The story today
Prior to April of this year, nobody had heard of the H1N1 swine flu. Having gone through several scares over the past decade with other influenza viruses which were claimed to have the potential to kill or seriously injure millions around the world (SARS and Avian Influenza), the world's populations could have been excused for greeting this new outbreak with more then a touch of scepticism.
In fact, if there is a pandemic of this virus, it is very possible - some think even likely - that it is a man-made pandemic. Australian researcher, Adrian Gibbs, one of the researchers who created the influenza drug, Tamiflu, has stated that his investigations have indicated that this is a laboratory-created virus which has escaped into the population.(5) This hypothesis is of interest since the initial outbreak in Mexico City started in close proximity to Baxter Labs' vaccine facility.(6)
Baxter is now infamous for shipping batches of human influenza vaccines which had been contaminated with live Avian influenza (bird flu) virus to 18 European countries.(7) It was only due to the excellent due diligence of a lab in the Czech republic that this contamination was discovered prior to the vaccine being administered to millions of people. Had that occurred, we might now be looking at a pandemic of bird flu rather than swine flu.
How many cases - how many deaths?
Despite a very low mortality rate (to date, there have been less than 500 confirmed H1N1 deaths worldwide compared with between 500,000 to 1,000,000 deaths each year (8) which human influenza is credited with causing) and evidence suggesting that H1N1 causes very mild illness, the World Health Organisation raised the pandemic risk level to its highest possible point - level 6 - and governments around the world are pledging tens of billions of dollars to rush through an untested vaccine.
The tests being used to diagnose H1N1 are giving far too many false positive results (9) and what's worse, doctors are not submitting samples to laboratories for testing. Anyone with flu-like symptoms is now assumed to have H1N1 swine flu - a decision which has increased the number of cases exponentially.(10,11)
Swine flu vaccination - a shot in the dark
Influenza vaccines are among the most ineffective shots in the vaccine armoury. In healthy adults, the estimates of effectiveness range from a low of 0% to a high of 96% - depending on the study. In the elderly and immune-suppressed, the figures seem to hover at between 21 and 25% effective. In addition, some influenza vaccines still contain mercury in the form of thiomersal while the new swine flu vaccines are being made with novel, oil-based adjuvants which have been linked in the past with severe long-term neurological and other adverse health effects.
These vaccines are not being properly tested and in fact, the vaccine manufacturers have been indemnified against litigation so even if you or your child has a bad reaction, the company that made and profited from the shots will not be held responsibly - morally, ethically or financially.(12)
Despite the lack of information about these vaccine's safety or effectiveness, it is planned that every man, woman and child will be vaccinated - both here in Australia and overseas. In fact, the first targets for these needles will be pregnant women and children.
This vaccine - like all vaccines - has never been evaluated for its effect on developing foetuses. In addition, if we follow the lead of the United States, when this vaccine is administered to children, it will mean 4 additional shots in one year for kids - 2 of the human influenza vaccine - 2 of the swine flu. Our children will now be facing in excess of 60 vaccines before they reach school age if 4 annual flu shots are added to the childhood vaccination schedule.
Will it be compulsory?
On July 14th, the Rudd Government ordered 21 million doses of the totally untested swine flu vaccine - enough for everyone currently living in Australia.(13) It is the contention of the Australian Vaccination Network (AVN) that the only reason they would buy this many vaccines is because it is their intention for all of them to be used. That would mean making the vaccination compulsory.
While we support everyone's right to choose vaccination should they wish to - we firmly believe that no medical procedure - least of all one which has such a long track record of ineffectiveness and risk - should ever be mandated. People must be able to choose not to get the vaccine if that is their wish. Should the government require it, we do not object to mandatory home quarantine in the event of a true epidemic breaking out.
It will be up to each of us to ensure that our rights and the rights of our children and loved ones are protected and that no vaccination is ever made compulsory. For further information about actions you can take to protect your rights and to stay informed about the current swine flu situation, please visit the AVN's web page on pandemic influenza - http://avn.org.au/library/index.php/table/pandemic-influenza/ or subscribe to our blog - http://nocompulsoryvaccination.blogspot.com/
References:
1-Children's hospital study links deaths to post-flu issues - http://tinyurl.com/lrc8kz
2-Swine Flu Vaccine Warning - CBS News, 60 Minutes - Part 1; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lcJt4jX1Vo - Part 2; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4c9Is1T3z4&feature=related
3-The Flawed 1976 National "Swine Flu" Influenza Immunisation Program by the Suburban Emergency Management Project - http://tinyurl.com/nwlz4q
4-Swine Flu debacle of 1976 is recalled - the Los Angeles Times - http://tinyurl.com/nxq2d5
5- Swine Flu May Be Lab Error: Aussie Researcher; The Age newspaper; http://tinyurl.com/r5n5xk
6-Baxter Pharmaceutical Plant in Mexico- Ground Zero for Flu Outbreak - http://tinyurl.com/mjcxpx
7-Baxter Sent Bird Flu Virus to European Labs by Error - Bloomberg News http://tinyurl.com/cady7h
8-Science, Vol 293, 7 September 2001 p 1729
9-Unreliable Swine Flu Test Leaves Doubt - The Melbourne Age - http://tinyurl.com/n8mckd
10-Swine flu fears rise as death toll grows in Britain - The Australian Newspaper - http://tinyurl.com/lxwh6p
11-Swine Flu: Alert; not yet alarmed - Armidale Express - http://tinyurl.com/m7nnk6
12-Legal immunity set for swine flu vaccine makers - http://tinyurl.com/mjp4x3
13-Officials Order 21 Million Vaccine Doses - Prime News - http://tinyurl.com/m7gsuu
About Australian Vaccination Network, Inc.
The AVN is a non-profit, volunteer-run charitable association. Since 1994, the AVN has provided information and support to the general community who are trying to make informed choices about vaccination and health. Their lobbying in Federal Parliament has ensured that compulsory vaccination for children has not come to pass and they are the major reporters of vaccine adverse reactions to ADRAC (The Adverse Drug Reactions Advisory Committee).
Why the media needs to ask more questions
Sunday, July 26th, 2009 - For Immediate Release:
Swine Flu Fact Sheet:
The only way to conquer fear is with information
Governments around the world are scrambling to find a solution to the potential problems that may be caused by the current H1N1 'swine flu' pandemic. From its origins in Mexico in April of this year, the panic caused by this virus - a hybrid of viral DNA from pigs, birds and humans - has grown to the point where logic and science have been forgotten in a mad race to do 'something' about this situation.
There is an adage that states, those who forget the lessons of history are doomed to repeat them. In an effort to keep us from making the same mistakes we have in the past - mistakes which have been extremely costly in terms of financial burden and lives lost or health damaged - the Australian Vaccination Network has tried to gather together information to help you to ask the questions you need to find answers to and the knowledge necessary to make intelligent decisions about the swine flu vaccine. It is also an excellent idea to download the flyer from Pandemic Flu online. This web site is a great resource of constantly updated information on this topic.
History:
Between 1918 and 1920, immediately after World War I, it is estimated that as many as 50 million people around the world may have died from Swine Flu. Most of those whose deaths were attributed to influenza - 95% and more - did not die from the flu but were victims of bacterial pneumonia - an easily treatable illness for which antibiotics are very effective.(1) Had this outbreak occurred today rather than almost 100 years ago, the mortality and morbidity statistics would have been very different.
In addition, the strain of flu which was in circulation at that time was completely different to the strain we are seeing now.
In 1976, a soldier at Fort Dix NJ (USA), Private Lewis, left his sick bed to go on a forced march - and collapsed and died from what was diagnosed at the time as swine flu. Initially, it was thought that up to 500 other soldiers at Fort Dix had also contracted the disease. That figure was revised down to 4 confirmed cases with no other deaths. In fact, there were no other cases reported anywhere else in the world.(2)
Only one person died of swine flu in 1976, but more than 4,000 were seriously injured by the vaccine with 25 confirmed deaths. That vaccine, like the current shot, was rushed through without proper testing. The result was more than $3.5 billion in compensation claims in the US - and this is for a vaccination campaign which was cut short only 10 weeks after it started which was meant to protect against an outbreak which never occurred. The only outcome to this vaccination campaign was a large number of permanently injured citizens and an enduring distrust of influenza vaccinations.(3,4)
The story today
Prior to April of this year, nobody had heard of the H1N1 swine flu. Having gone through several scares over the past decade with other influenza viruses which were claimed to have the potential to kill or seriously injure millions around the world (SARS and Avian Influenza), the world's populations could have been excused for greeting this new outbreak with more then a touch of scepticism.
In fact, if there is a pandemic of this virus, it is very possible - some think even likely - that it is a man-made pandemic. Australian researcher, Adrian Gibbs, one of the researchers who created the influenza drug, Tamiflu, has stated that his investigations have indicated that this is a laboratory-created virus which has escaped into the population.(5) This hypothesis is of interest since the initial outbreak in Mexico City started in close proximity to Baxter Labs' vaccine facility.(6)
Baxter is now infamous for shipping batches of human influenza vaccines which had been contaminated with live Avian influenza (bird flu) virus to 18 European countries.(7) It was only due to the excellent due diligence of a lab in the Czech republic that this contamination was discovered prior to the vaccine being administered to millions of people. Had that occurred, we might now be looking at a pandemic of bird flu rather than swine flu.
How many cases - how many deaths?
Despite a very low mortality rate (to date, there have been less than 500 confirmed H1N1 deaths worldwide compared with between 500,000 to 1,000,000 deaths each year (8) which human influenza is credited with causing) and evidence suggesting that H1N1 causes very mild illness, the World Health Organisation raised the pandemic risk level to its highest possible point - level 6 - and governments around the world are pledging tens of billions of dollars to rush through an untested vaccine.
The tests being used to diagnose H1N1 are giving far too many false positive results (9) and what's worse, doctors are not submitting samples to laboratories for testing. Anyone with flu-like symptoms is now assumed to have H1N1 swine flu - a decision which has increased the number of cases exponentially.(10,11)
Swine flu vaccination - a shot in the dark
Influenza vaccines are among the most ineffective shots in the vaccine armoury. In healthy adults, the estimates of effectiveness range from a low of 0% to a high of 96% - depending on the study. In the elderly and immune-suppressed, the figures seem to hover at between 21 and 25% effective. In addition, some influenza vaccines still contain mercury in the form of thiomersal while the new swine flu vaccines are being made with novel, oil-based adjuvants which have been linked in the past with severe long-term neurological and other adverse health effects.
These vaccines are not being properly tested and in fact, the vaccine manufacturers have been indemnified against litigation so even if you or your child has a bad reaction, the company that made and profited from the shots will not be held responsibly - morally, ethically or financially.(12)
Despite the lack of information about these vaccine's safety or effectiveness, it is planned that every man, woman and child will be vaccinated - both here in Australia and overseas. In fact, the first targets for these needles will be pregnant women and children.
This vaccine - like all vaccines - has never been evaluated for its effect on developing foetuses. In addition, if we follow the lead of the United States, when this vaccine is administered to children, it will mean 4 additional shots in one year for kids - 2 of the human influenza vaccine - 2 of the swine flu. Our children will now be facing in excess of 60 vaccines before they reach school age if 4 annual flu shots are added to the childhood vaccination schedule.
Will it be compulsory?
On July 14th, the Rudd Government ordered 21 million doses of the totally untested swine flu vaccine - enough for everyone currently living in Australia.(13) It is the contention of the Australian Vaccination Network (AVN) that the only reason they would buy this many vaccines is because it is their intention for all of them to be used. That would mean making the vaccination compulsory.
While we support everyone's right to choose vaccination should they wish to - we firmly believe that no medical procedure - least of all one which has such a long track record of ineffectiveness and risk - should ever be mandated. People must be able to choose not to get the vaccine if that is their wish. Should the government require it, we do not object to mandatory home quarantine in the event of a true epidemic breaking out.
It will be up to each of us to ensure that our rights and the rights of our children and loved ones are protected and that no vaccination is ever made compulsory. For further information about actions you can take to protect your rights and to stay informed about the current swine flu situation, please visit the AVN's web page on pandemic influenza - http://avn.org.au/library/index.php/table/pandemic-influenza/ or subscribe to our blog - http://nocompulsoryvaccination.blogspot.com/
References:
1-Children's hospital study links deaths to post-flu issues - http://tinyurl.com/lrc8kz
2-Swine Flu Vaccine Warning - CBS News, 60 Minutes - Part 1; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lcJt4jX1Vo - Part 2; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4c9Is1T3z4&feature=related
3-The Flawed 1976 National "Swine Flu" Influenza Immunisation Program by the Suburban Emergency Management Project - http://tinyurl.com/nwlz4q
4-Swine Flu debacle of 1976 is recalled - the Los Angeles Times - http://tinyurl.com/nxq2d5
5- Swine Flu May Be Lab Error: Aussie Researcher; The Age newspaper; http://tinyurl.com/r5n5xk
6-Baxter Pharmaceutical Plant in Mexico- Ground Zero for Flu Outbreak - http://tinyurl.com/mjcxpx
7-Baxter Sent Bird Flu Virus to European Labs by Error - Bloomberg News http://tinyurl.com/cady7h
8-Science, Vol 293, 7 September 2001 p 1729
9-Unreliable Swine Flu Test Leaves Doubt - The Melbourne Age - http://tinyurl.com/n8mckd
10-Swine flu fears rise as death toll grows in Britain - The Australian Newspaper - http://tinyurl.com/lxwh6p
11-Swine Flu: Alert; not yet alarmed - Armidale Express - http://tinyurl.com/m7nnk6
12-Legal immunity set for swine flu vaccine makers - http://tinyurl.com/mjp4x3
13-Officials Order 21 Million Vaccine Doses - Prime News - http://tinyurl.com/m7gsuu
About Australian Vaccination Network, Inc.
The AVN is a non-profit, volunteer-run charitable association. Since 1994, the AVN has provided information and support to the general community who are trying to make informed choices about vaccination and health. Their lobbying in Federal Parliament has ensured that compulsory vaccination for children has not come to pass and they are the major reporters of vaccine adverse reactions to ADRAC (The Adverse Drug Reactions Advisory Committee).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
