According to Dr. Vetrano, there is no such thing as a B12 deficiency because the body gets B12 coenzymes from bacteria in the intestinal tract and from natural plant foods. Dr. Vetrano argues that the real problem is one of digestion and absorption. Namely, failure to digest, absorb and utilize the various cobalamins from food and natural sources (i.e. bacteria in intestinal tract).

Dr. Vetrano makes some very surprising points, especially her claim that cyanocobalamin (which is in every Vitamin B12 supplement) is not usable by the body and is toxic. Article is excerpted below. *Note: Capitalization in certain sections of this article is Dr. Vetrano's emphasis, not mine.

Rethinking & Clarifying the B12 Issue

By Dr Vivian V. Vetrano

There is no such thing as a B12 deficiency, even in 100% raw vegan food eaters. They do not have to eat dirt, animal products, or take pills to secure coenzymes of B12. Bacteria in the intestinal tract make it for us, and the metabolically usable and necessary forms of coenzyme B12 are contained in unprocessed, fresh natural plant foods, particularly in nuts and seeds. The real problem in so-called B12 deficiency is a failure of digestion and absorption of foods, rather than a deficiency of the vitamin itself.

Vitamin B12 coenzymes are found in nuts and seeds as well as in many common greens, fruits, and many vegetables. If we ate 100 grams of green beans, beets, carrots, and peas we would have half of our so-called daily minimum requirement of Vitamin B12 coenzymes providing our digestion and absorption are normal. From Rodale's The Complete Book of Vitamins, page 236 we find the following clarification: "As you know, the B complex of vitamins is called a 'complex' because, instead of being one vitamin, it has turned out to be a large number of related vitamins, which appear generally in the same foods."

A little publicized source of active Vitamin B12 coenzymes is from bacteria in the mouth, around the teeth, in the nasopharynx, around the tonsils and in the tonsilar crypts, in the folds at the base of the tongue, and in the upper bronchial tree. This source alone will supply sufficient quantities of Vitamin B12 coenzymes for the very small requirement of total vegetarians, especially considering that their needs for this vitamin are not as great as for those on conventional diets.

I have studied the Vitamin B12 issue thoroughly, and have learned that biochemists, neutraceutical scientists, and many writers mistakenly use the term Vitamin B12 for cyanocobalamin, THAT IS NOT USABLE BY THE BODY BUT which is in all vitamin B12 supplements. When speaking of Vitamin B12 they are referring to the semisynthetic Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) that initially was contaminated with poisonous cyanide during its chemical extraction from animal tissues. Carbon columns are used during the extraction process and the carbon combines with nitrogen from the medium forming the poisonous cyanocobalamin, that scientists insist on calling Vitamin B12. The original method used to extract Vitamin B 12 from its sources included heating the medium in a weak acid, the addition of cyanide ion, and exposure to light. In this process the coenzymes were converted to cyanocobalamin, yet this was over looked. (Review of Physiological Chemistry, Harper, Harold A., Lange Medical Publications, New York, 1977, page l81. Also refer to Cobalamin: Biochemistry and Pathophysiology, Wiley. N. and F. Sicuteri, New York, 1972.)

Moreover, in the manufacture of vitamin supplements, cyanide is added to the medium because the carbon and nitrogen are needed to form large molecules as are found in vitamins; and IN ADDITION they need it to extract the B12 from fermentation liquors and liver homogenates. Carbon is needed in great quantities when making vitamins or any other manufactured vitamin or substance that mimics the natural vitamin that normally contains a lot of carbon.

The two vitamin B12 coenzymes known to be metabolically active in mammalian tissues are: 5-deoxyadenosylcobalamin and methylcobalamin (methyl-B12. When extracted in light, these two coenzymes undergo photolysis and are destroyed. Natural B12 is found solely in plants and animals, and that is the only form that can be called "coenzyme B12."

If an animal or individual is given cyanocobalamin the body removes the cyanide because it is not usable as a coenzyme and it is toxic. Then the cobalt of the former cyanocobalamin can combine with other substances that are not toxic and actually form Vitamin B12 coenzymes that are usable by the body. These normally existing Vitamin B12 coenzymes are labile and break down easily unless inside living tissue.

Potassium in the body can react with the cyanide found in cyanocobalamin – the "Vitamin B 12" – and form toxic potassium cyanide (KCN). Potassium cyanide is a poisonous compound used as a fumigant. This is one reason why the body jettisons the "Vitamin B 12" (i.e. cyanocobalamin) injections so rapidly. Within 24 hours most (about 90%) of the cyanocobalamin in supplements has been eliminated.

The names of cobalamins formed by the body or in a laboratory are: l. hydroxocobalamin if it combines with a hydroxyl ion (OH), and 2. aquocobalamin, when it combines with water. Cobalamin also combines with anions such as nitrite a form of nitrogen, chloride, and sulfur. These are not usable by the body. The two active coenzymes that can be formed in the body after stripping off the cyanide are 5-deoxyadenosylcobalamin, or adenosylcobalamin for short, and methylcobalamin. The problem is that the cyanide is toxic and makes many people sicker than they were before taking the supplement.

Cyanocobalamin is in every vitamin B12 supplement known because it is stable and less costly to manufacture. But it is not usable in the body. If the body has sufficient energy it may be able to offload the cyanide and benefit from the useful component. Mainly, what people experience after taking cyanocobalamin supplements is stimulation. The toxic effect of the cyanide triggers a rush of energy as the body works hard to excrete the poison, and this fools people into believing that the supplement has "worked" to heal them. Meanwhile, if their blood tests show an increase in B12, it mainly reflects the amount of the CYANOCOBALAMIN in the blood stream. The usable forms are carried into the cells and can't be discovered by testing the blood as is the current practice. Blood tests are often inaccurate and, as previously stated, in the case of cyanocobalamin supplementation and B12 injections, about 90 % of it has been eliminated from the body in 24 hours.

Looking at it hygienically, no Vitamin B12 therapy can cause a recovery from any so-called deficiency disease. It may only hide the symptoms and cannot give an individual health. When people report that their apparent B12 deficiency symptoms have been relieved by cyanocobalamin supplementation, they are mistaken. They are not getting usable Vitamin B12 coenzymes, and their bodies are forced to convert the cyanide form into the active forms, methylcobalamin, and adenosylcobalamin. This extra function stimulates but wastes nerve energy, and they are are actually getting worse, not better. They have not addressed the cause of their troubles.

In summary, vegans and raw fooders all have sufficient amounts of coenzyme B12 in their diets, and FROM THAT produced in their bodies. The most common basic cause of a natural cobalamin deficiency is a failure to digest, absorb and utilize the various cobalamins from food and from the intestinal tract as in the case of gastritis or gastroenteritis. The cause of malabsorption is commonly a gastrointestinal disorder and this was known by pathologists way back in the l800s. In this case, one's lifestyle must be assessed and brought into unison with the needs of the living organism.

Furthermore, absorption of the natural B12 coenzymes can take place in the mouth, throat, esophagus, bronchial tubes and even in the upper small intestines, as well as all along the intestinal tract. This does not involve the complex enzyme mechanism for absorption (intrinsic factor) in the small intestine as required by cyanocobalamin. The coenzymes are absorbed by diffusion by mucuous membranes.

I don't know what to make of this article. It's disturbing to think that I'm putting cyanide into my body by taking a B vitamin.

However, Dr. Vetrano is right when she says that cyanocobalamin is used as B12 in most vitamins on the market today. Looking at my "Stress M" vitamin (a B complex with synergistic nutrients to aid in stress management), it lists B12 and then in parentheses it says "as cyanocobalamin." Same thing with my sister's multi-vitamin. Cyanocobalamin is used for B12.

While searching, I came across another interesting article on the B12 Hoax.

I don't remember where I heard this, but someone once told me that "Americans have the most expensive urine in the world" because they take so many vitamins—most of which are not absorbed and utilized by the body. Controversy exists over whether raw vegans should use vitamins and supplements. I know that Paul Nison favors taking supplements while eating raw; meanwhile other raw vegans are opposed to taking supplements.

What do you think? Do you take B-vitamin supplements?

In my earlier post, I wrote about the importance of finding a dentist that does not use amalgam fillings. So, what's wrong with amalgam fillings? Well, to begin with, look at the composition of amalgam.

Amalgam is composed of the following metals:

Silver 69.3%
Mercury 50%
Tin 17.9%
Copper 11.8%
Zinc 1%

Amalgam is 50% mercury, and mercury is toxic to the body. The long-term effects of mercury in the mouth have been shown to be extremely dangerous. Even worse, the combination of multiple metals (silver, tin, copper, zinc) interacting with mercury can cause even greater harm. An excellent article on dental fillings: Are Amalgams Safe?

Scientific Facts About the Biological Effects of Mercury Amalgams:

Mercury Penetrates the Blood-Brain Barrier & Weakens Immune System

Mercury penetrates the blood-brain barrier around the brain, and as little as one part per million can impair this barrier, permitting entry of substances in the blood that would otherwise be excluded.

–Chang and Hartman, 1972; Chang and Burkholder, 1974

Mercury Affects Nervous System & Prevents Protein & Amino Acid Absorption

The effect of mercury on the nervous system selectively inhibits protein and amino acid absorption into brain tissue.

–Yoshino et al.,1966; Steinwall, 1969; Steinwall and Snyder, 1969; Cavanagh and Chen, 1971

Mercury Linked to Parkinson's Disease

Mercury inhibits the synaptic uptake of neurotransmitters in the brain and can produce subsequent development of Parkinson's disease.

–Ohlson and Hogstedt, "Parkinsons Disease and Occupational Exposure to Organic Solvents, Agricultural Chemicals and Mercury" Scandinavian Journal of Work Environment Health Vol 7 No.4 : 252-256,1981

Mercury is Toxic to the Kidneys & Causes Pathological Damage

Mercury is nephrotoxic (toxic to the kidneys) and causes pathological damage.

–Nicholson et al, "Cadmium and Mercury Nephrotoxicity" Nature Vol 304:633, 1983

Amalgam is the Largest Source of Mercury Absorption

Based on a number of studies in Sweden, the World Health Organization review of inorganic mercury in 1991 determined that mercury absorption is estimated to be approximately four times higher from amalgam fillings than from fish consumption. Recent studies have confirmed this estimate. The amount absorbed can vary considerably from person to person.

Mercury Affects the Functioning of the Heart

Mercury fillings can contribute to a higher level of mercury in the blood, and can affect the functioning of the heart, change the vascular response to norepinepherine and potassium chloride, and block the entry of calcium ions into the cytoplasm.

–Abraham et al, 1984 "The Effect of Dental Amalgam Restorations on Blood Mercury Levels" Journal of Dental Research Vol 63 No.1:71-73,1984; Kuntz et al, "Maternal and Cord Blood Background Mercury Levels: A Longitudinal Surveillance" American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Vol 143 No. 4: 440-443, 1982; Joselow et al, 1972; Mantyla and Wright, 1976; Trakhtenberg, 1968; Oka et al, 1979

Mercury Affects Endocrine System & Accumulates in Thyroid & Pituitary Glands

Mercury exposure from amalgams leads to interference with brain catecholamine reactivity levels, has a pronounced effect on the human endocrine system, and accumulates in both the thyroid and pituitary glands, reducing production of important hormones.

–Carmignani, Finelli and Boscolo, 1983; Kosta et al, 1975; Trakhtenberg, 1974

Mercury induces the thyroid gland to absorb an increasing amount of nuclear radiation from the environment.

–Trakhtenberg, 1974

Mercury Reduces Function of Adrenal Glands and Contributes to Infertility

Mercury can impair the adrenal and testicular steroid hormone secretions, cause intolerance for stress and decreased sexual ability. In rats, it causes subnormal fertility and sperm production.

–Burton and Meikle, 1980; Khera, 1973; Stoewsand et al, 1971; Lee and Dixon, 1975; Thaxton and Parkhurst, 1973

Mercury in the body can produce contact dermititis and reduced function of the adrenal glands (Addison's disease), producing progressive anemia, low blood pressure, diarrhea and digestive disturbances.

–Alomar et al, 1983

Mercury Kills White Blood Cells, Causes Chromosomal Abnormalities & Alters Cells

Mercury has a distinct effect on the human immune system, especially the white blood cells. Mercury ions have been observed to cause chromosomal aberrations and alters the cellular genetic code. Mercury has the ability to induce chromosomal breakage, alter cellular mitosis, cause a drop in T-cell production and kill white blood cells.

–Vershaeve et al, 1976; Popescu et al, 1979; Skerfving et al, 1970,1974; Fiskesjo, 1970

High Mercury Levels in Pregant Women Linked to Fetal Birth Defects & Still Births

Mercury has an effect on the fetal nervous system, even at levels far below that considered to be toxic in adults. Background levels of mercury in mothers correlate with incidence of fetal birth defects and still births.

–Reuhl and Chang, 1979;Clarkson et al, 1981; Marsh et al, 1980; Tejning, 1968; Kuntz, W.D., Pitkin, R.M., Bostrum, A.W., and Hughes M.S., The American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Vol 143 No.4:440-443,1982

Mercury is Linked to Alzheimer's Disease

A study related to mercury and Alzheimer's Disease was recently completed by a team of scientists led by well-respected researcher Dr. Boyd Haley. They exposed rats to levels of mercury vapor diluted to account for size differences between humans and rats. The rats developed tissue damage "indistinguishable" from that of Alzheimer's Disease. Repeating the experiment showed the same results. Dr. Haley is quoted as saying "I'm getting the rest of my fillings taken out right now, and I've asked my wife to have hers replaced too."

Patients with Amalgam Fillings Breathe Mercury Vapors

Studies show there is a continuous release of elemental mercury vapor from amalgam fillings–especially when chewing food or brushing amalgam-filled teeth. Further, the polishing of amalgams (by dental hygenists) and bruxism (grinding of teeth) may cause the release of high levels of mercury vapor and mercury ions.

I find it very disturbing that it is standard practice to fill cavities with amalgams. Most patients are unaware, uninformed and totally ignorant about the consequences. Essentially, dentists are slowly poisoning their patients, without telling them.

Don't go to a regular dentist. If possible, find a holistic, mercury-free dentist. You can find a mercury-free dentist here. One final note: Try to find a dentist that uses digital X-rays, since digital X-rays reduce radiation by up to 80% (when compared to traditional X-rays).

More information about amalgam fillings, toxicity of amalgam, and frequently asked questions about amalgam.

Milk Contains Toxic Levels of Dioxins

"The level of dioxin in a single serving of the Ben & Jerry's World's Best Vanilla Ice Cream tested was almost 200 times greater than the 'virtually safe [daily] dose' determined by the Environmental Protection Agency."

-Steve Milloy, author of junkscience.com (Milloy tested samples of ice cream for dioxins. The only major newspaper to report the story was the Detroit Free Press). 11/8/99

IGF's in Milk Linked to Cancer

The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system is widely involved in human carcinogenesis. A significant association between high circulating IGF-I concentrations and an increased risk of lung, colon, prostate and pre-menopausal breast cancer has recently been reported."

-International Journal of Cancer, 2000 Aug, 87:4

"Levels of IGF increase in milk after cows are treated with rbGH." [rbGH stands for "recombinant bovine growth hormone," a hormone fed to cows to make them grow unnaturally large in a shorter period of time to maximize the dairy industry's profits.]

-National Institutes of Health Assessment of Bovine Somatotropin, December, 1990

Milk Causes Allergies—Especially in Young Children

"Most formula fed infants developed symptoms of allergic rejection to cow milk proteins before one month of age. About 50-70% experienced rashes or other skin symptoms, 50-60 percent gastrointestinal symptoms, and 20-30 percent respiratory symptoms. The recommended therapy is to avoid cow's milk."

-Pediatric-Allergy-Immunology, August, 1994, 5(5 Suppl.)

"Most formula fed infants developed symptoms of allergic rejection to cow milk proteins before one month of age. About 50-70% experienced rashes or other skin symptoms, 50-60 percent gastrointestinal symptoms, and 20-30 percent respiratory symptoms. The recommended therapy is to avoid cow's milk."

-Pediatric-Allergy-Immunology, August, 1994, 5(5 Suppl.)

Milk Causes Mucus, Sinus Infections, Congestion & Ear Infections

"At least 50% of all children in the United States are allergic to milk, many undiagnosed. Dairy products are the leading cause of food allergy, often revealed by constipation, diarrhea, and fatigue. Many cases of asthma and sinus infections are reported to be relieved and even eliminated by cutting out dairy."

-Natural Health, July, 1994, Frank Oski, M.D., Chief of Pediatrics at Johns Hopkins Medical School

"Milk allergies are very common in children… They are the leading cause of the chronic ear infections that plague up to 40% of all children under the age of six."

-Julian Whitaker, M.D., "Health & Healing," October, 1998, Volume 8, No. 10

Milk is Linked to Juvenile Diabetes

"These new studies, and more than 20 well-documented previous ones, have prompted one researcher to say the link between milk and juvenile diabetes is 'very solid'."

-Diabetes Care 1994;17 (12)

Milk Is Implicated in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

"Those who consumed cows milk were fourteen times more likely to die from diarrhea-related complications and four times more likely to die of pneumonia than were breast-fed babies. Intolerance and allergy to cow's milk products is a factor in sudden infant death syndrome."

-The Lancet, vol. 344, November 5, 1994

Milk & Heart Disease Highly Correlated

"Milk and milk products gave the highest correlation coefficient to heart disease. Sugar, animal proteins and animal fats came in second, third, and fourth, respectively."

-A Survey of Mortality Rates and Food Consumption Statistics of 24 Countries, Medical Hypothesis 7:907-918, 1981

"Bovine milk is presently under investigation by this laboratory since it has been shown that milk antibodies are significantly elevated in the blood of male patients with heart disease."

-Proceedings of the Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine, 163:1981

Milk Contains Pesticides, Antibiotics & Killer Bacteria

"A 1988 FDA survey of milk samples from grocery stores in 10 cities found that 73% of the samples contained pesticide residues."

-Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 1991; 47

"Milk from cows inoculated with listeria was pooled for 2 to 4 days and then heated at 162 degrees Fahrenheit for 16 seconds in a high-temperature, short-time pasteurization unit. Live listeria bacteria was then successfully isolated from the milk after heat treatment in 11 of 12 pasteurization trials."

-Journal of Environmental Microbiology. July 1987, (53)

"… curing alone may not be a sufficient pathogen control step to eliminate Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli O157:H7 from cheese."

-J Food Prot, 1998 Oct, 61:10

Dairy Products Linked to Rheumatoid Arthritis

"Rheumatoid arthritis is more severe than osteoarthritis, is most common in the hands and feet, and is characterized by swelling of joints. Since this type of joint pain can be a symptom of a food allergy, dietary change sometimes has a profound effect. Dairy products, the most common food allergen, are one likely candidate as a contributing causative factor."

-Vegetarian and Vegan Nutrition by George Eisman, M.A., M.Sc., R.D.

"In the case of the eight year old female subject, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis was a milk allergy. After avoiding dairy products, all pain was gone in three weeks."

-Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine, 1985, 78

Want more reasons? Read 52 Reasons to Abandon Milk & Dairy.

I'm always surprised to see nutritionally savvy people (organic vegans, raw vegans, holistic health care practitioners) with dyed and chemically processed hair. I think there is a huge lack of awareness when it comes to the dangers of chemical hair coloring.

Using chemical hair coloring is just as dangerous as the pesticides and toxins that are sprayed on produce (if not more dangerous). Even more alarming is the fact that when you chemically color your hair, it's seeping into your scalp (your skin) and into your bloodstream.

When you color your hair, you're dumping toxic chemicals onto one of the most important spots of your body–your brain. This is where the blood supply is the richest in the entire human body (thus increasing the likelihood of harmful chemicals being absorbed into the bloodstream). The National Cancer Institute estimates that 20% of the non-Hodgkins lymphoma (the cancer that killed Jackie Kennedy-Onassis) is linked to the use of commercial, chemical hair dyes.

According to an article published in Energy Times…

• Most commercial hair coloring products contain cancer-causing agents and harsh bleaches. Some of the most dangerous are resorcinol and phenylenediamine derivatives (often preceded by an o-, p- or m- on the label). Another common hair dye ingredient, nitro-2-aminopherols, can initiate free-radical damage and DNA mutation which can lead to cancer. All of these chemicals have been associated with an increased occurance of asthma, Hodgkin's disease, lymphoma, breast cancer, bladder cancer and a form of leukemia called essential thrombocythemia."
• According to a study published by The American Journal of Epidemiology, hairstylists who worked with hair dyes for five years or more had had triple the risk of developing breast cancer.
• According to the American Cancer Society, people who used dark hair dye for two decades or more had a four times greater risk of dying from two cancers of the immune system, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and multiple myeloma.
• Dr. Andrew Weil, the natural health care guru, advises against any use of hair colors or dyes whatsoever. Dr. Weil believes that the color additives in hair dyes "are energetic molecules that can interact with DNA, potentially causing mutations that lead to cancer."

More information on the dangers of commercial hair coloring.

The good news is you can color your hair naturally. How? The answer is Henna. It's 100% natural, and harvested from a plant that's grown in India and parts of China. Many people assume that Henna means red hair. While Henna does have a reddish hue, it will not turn your hair bright red. That's a misconception. You can choose from a range of colors: light blonde, brown, red, and black. From what I've read, Henna is effective at covering gray hair, too.

One caveat: You should understand that Henna has no bleaching properties. In other words, you can't become blonde if your natural hair color is brown or black. Also, make sure you buy 100% pure Henna, with no added ingredients. I recommend Morrocco Method Henna.

My friend and I applied Morrocco Henna a couple of days ago. The color turned out nicely, although the application process is pretty messy (it's a green plant paste you're working with).

Have fun!

What you put on your skin, face, and scalp is *just* as important as the food you put into your mouth. Be sure to read the label on all skin care and body care products.

Women need to consider eliminating makeup, which contains enormous amounts of synthetic chemicals, surfectants and "chemical cocktails." If you need makeup, be sure to buy all-natural, organic makeup without synthetic ingredients.

According to The Organic Makeup Company…

"The human skin wraps and protects our bodies. It constitutes a living, dynamic tissue system. It has the remarkable ability to absorb applied products, partially or completely, into the bloodstream."

• Up to 60% of the products we use on our skin are absorbed and deposited into the circulatory system.
• The average woman absorbs 30 pounds of the ingredients contained in moisturizers over sixty years.

Whatever food you ingest passes through your liver. Your liver functions to detoxify and neutralize harmful ingredients. However, body care products applied to the skin are absorbed *directly* through the skin. Since they don't pass through your liver, you want the highest purity level.

Both men and women need to re-evaluate the ingredients in the following household products…

toothpaste
shampoos & conditioners
deodorants
hairsprays, perfumes
lotions
chapstick
soap
sunscreen
nail polish & nail polish remover
houseshold cleaning products
dishwashing soap (which goes on your hands, into your skin, and into your bloodstream)

Here is a list of harmful ingredients to avoid when choosing skin care and body care products.

Another excellent list can be found at Aubrey Organics. Aubrey Organics has been creating natural hair and skin care products for almost 40 years. Here is their list of
10 Synthetic Ingredients to Avoid

Print this list, and take it with you when go shopping for shampoo, dish soap, lotion, etc. After 3 or 4 trips to the health food store, you'll have the list memorized.

Here's a tip: If the ingredient list contains very long words, and you don't know what the words mean, then it's probably synthetically manufactured in a laboratory and should be avoided. Only buy products with ingredients that you understand. If you don't know what the word means, don't buy the product. For example, can you explain what Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine is? How about Butylphenyl Methylpropional? Most people do not know what these ingredients are–aside from knowing that they're synthetically manufactured in a laboratory. They both sound artificial, and in fact they *ARE* artificial. These ingredients have Methyl, Propyl, and Butyl in their names, and should therefore be avoided.

What I Use & Recommend:

Toothpaste–> I use Tooth Soap which helps re-enamelize the teeth. Fantastic, great. Love it.

Shampoo & Conditioner –> Aubrey Organics

Deodorant –> Crystal Stick. This is a natural body deodorant for men & women that is non-sticky, non-staining, and guaranteed to last one year. It contains 100% natural mineral salts, and is completely free of perfumes and chemicals. And yes, it works.

Hairsprays, Nail Polish, Nail Polish Remover & Perfumes–> I don't use nail polish remover or perfumes. I have found a chemical-free nail polish called "No Miss."

Soap–> I use 100% pure olive oil soap. The soap is green (from the crushed olives).

Lotion–> Organic Virgin Coconut Oil from Tropical Traditions

Chapstick–> Beeswax Lip Balm from Burt's Bees.

Sunscreen–> Aubrey Organics

Dishwashing Soap–> The brands "7th Generation" and "Earth Friendly Products" both sell dishwashing soap that does not contain Sodium Laurel Sulfate (SLS), artificial colors, phosphates, dyes, or Cocamide DEA. You can find many more natural brands at Whole Foods or your local health food store.

Where to Buy
I buy all of the products listed above from Whole Foods—except for Toothsoap and coconut oil, which I purchase online.

Unfortunately, many products that advertise themselves as "all natural" are not truly all-natural. The next time you go shopping for a bottle of shampoo, take the list of "10 Synthetic Ingredients to Avoid." You'll be amazed at how many so-called "natural" products contain parabens, cocoamide DEA/MEA, and some type of SLS or SMS (Sodium Myreth Sulfate). Start reading ingredient labels for all products you put on your body.

If you wouldn't eat it, don't put it on your skin.

Even though many people eat healthy, they often put toxins in their body by unknowingly using harmful skin care products (lotions, perfumes, soap, makeup, etc.). Reading the label on your skin care products is just as important as reading the label on the foods you eat.

According to studies done by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, levels of toxic metals and pesticides can be found in the blood and urine of most Americans. Harmful chemicals are found in many skin care products including shampoos, soaps, shower products, and toothpaste. Over a period of years of applying these products directly on your skin, or in your mouth, the buildup occurs in the system since the skin is a highly absorbent organ.

Not only is the skin highly absorbent (I've read studies that say within 2-3 minutes whatever is applied to the skin is absorbed into the bloodstream) but it is also the body's largest organ and is used for elimination of toxins. Instead of using lotion sold in the grocery store, consider using organic virgin coconut oil, instead. Pure coconut oil is known for its benefits to the skin. For soap, I use 100% pure olive oil soap (the soap itself is green and can be purchased at local health food stores such as Whole Foods).

***

Press release below from a new line of natural skin care products called Raw Gaia.

Raw Gaia, a Brighton-based natural skin care company, announces the launch of an unusually pure range of hand-crafted creams, moisturisers, lip balms and massage bars made using only 100% organic, raw and vegan ingredients.

The main benefit of a skin care product made with raw, living ingredients — such as cacao butter, cold-pressed oils and essential oils — is that the body is nourished from the life force, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals present within these substances. In contrast, a high temperature treatment — such as that used to make the vast majority of skin care products — destroys most of this goodness.

Managing director Lisa Lennon comments: "Our products are made by hand, carefully avoiding temperatures above 40°C, to ensure the ingredients retain all their living energy. This makes Raw Gaia truly different."

Raw Gaia's skin care range is free from petrochemicals, artificial colourants and parfums, glycols, lauryl sulphates, parabens, preservatives, synthetic additives, bulking agents and hidden ingredients. Products do not contain any toxic transfatty acids, as the oils are not heat treated.

Hector Bolanos, sales and marketing director, adds: "Our products are absolutely pure — so pure that you could in fact, eat them. As a result of their purity and living nature, they are highly nourishing and effective. Many people have said their skin starts to feel firmer and softer, blemishes and dark patches start to disappear, that their eczema has improved after using our products."

All Raw Gaia products are available at selected stores or can be bought online.

About Raw Gaia
Raw Gaia was started in Brighton by Lisa Lennon and Hector Bolanos during 2006. For many years, the couple searched for the ideal moisturiser, made with ingredients as fresh and close to nature as possible. Unable to find anything suitable, Lisa started experimenting in the kitchen and making her own creams. Eventually, she came up with a product that is one of the purest creams on the market. The success with this cream led her to develop a range of other skin care products.

At 10:00 a.m. this morning, I drove to the state farmers' market in the city (approx. 25 minutes from my house) in search of fresh, organic produce. The search proved very interesting.

I questioned (nicely and politely) five different farmers. "Do you use pesticides on your crops?" All five said yes–they HAD to spray the crops. There was no other way to keep the bugs off.

Or so I was told.

"But what about farmers who grow organic produce?" I asked. "How do they keep the bugs off their crops?"

"I don't know, honey," said an old farmer with a strong southern accent, white hair, and yellow, crooked teeth. "I been farmin' for twenty-FAHV years and everyone I know of sprays. If ya don't spray, the bugs'll eat up everything."

"Is there anyone here who sells organic produce?" I asked.

"Not that I know of," he replied.

There were only five farmers selling vegetables such as zucchini, squash, lettuce, tomatoes, potatoes, onions, etc. The rest were selling fresh flowers, baked goods, honey, plants (azaleas, marigolds, herbs) or strawberries. It seemed nearly everyone was selling strawberries. There were pints of strawberries everywhere I turned. I asked about spraying the berries with pesticides, and everyone I asked said that they sprayed…they said they HAD to spray.

The Specifics of Spraying Strawberries

I learned that the spraying is typically done to the strawberry plant in March and this keeps the bugs from eating the plant and destroying the fruit. Here's an interesting fact for you: Strawberries and bell peppers contain some of the highest concentrations of pesticides. So, knowing this, I avoided buying the pesticide-laden strawberries. According to the EPA, over 70 pesticides now in use are probable cancer-causing agents. (See my earlier post on pesticides.)

I was surprised that not a single farmer I talked with knew how to farm WITHOUT spraying. Organic farming was a mystery to the local farmers. It was something that they could not explain.

It's amazing how much knowledge our civilization has lost. Ironically, our "modern" lifestyle is contributing to our illnesses and our problems. Ironically, cancer rates are higher in "developed" countries than third-world countries. Ironically, ancient civilizations knew more about organic farming practices (and sustainable agriculture) than the majority of "modern" farmers.

My experience today makes me want to learn the basics of organic farming methods. Are organic farmers working miracles? In the eyes of conventional farmers, they are. In the eyes of conventional farmers, these organic farmers are doing the "impossible."

It reminds me of an old Chinese proverb…"The person who says it cannot be done should not interrupt the person doing it."

According to farmers in India, Coca-Cola functions as a pesticide, killing unwanted insects. If Coca-Cola kills insects (just like a pesticide), imagine what Cola-Cola does to your body. If something kills living organisms (insects), do you think that you–as a living organism–will be exempt from the disastrous effect? I'm not saying that Coca-Cola will kill you. That's too extreme…but over a prolonged period of time, it certainly will have a harmful effect.

This is yet another reason to eliminate sodas/colas from your diet. Not only are they filled with artificial colors, and sugar, but they destroy cells and are a rough equivalent to pesticides.

From a discussion forum on the topic….

Little-Known, Shocking Facts About Coca-Cola

"1. The active ingredient in Coke is phosphoric acid. Its pH is 2.8 (highly acidic). It will dissolve a nail in about 4 days. Phosphoric acid also leaches calcium from bones and is a major contributor to the rising increase in osteoporosis.

2. To carry Coca-Cola syrup (the concentrate) the commercial truck must use the Hazardous material place cards reserved for highly corrosive materials.

3. The distributors of Coke have been using it to clean the engines of their trucks for about 20 years!

And now for the properties of Coke…

1. In many states (in the USA) the highway patrol carries two gallons of Coke in the truck to remove blood from the highway after a car accident.

2. You can put a T-bone steak in a bowl of Coke and it will be gone in two days.

3. To clean a toilet: Pour a can of Coca-Cola into the toilet bowl and let the "real thing" sit for one hour, then flush clean. The citric acid in Coke removes stains from vitreous China.

4. To remove rust spots from chrome car bumpers: Rub the bumper with a rumpled-up piece of Reynolds Wrap aluminum foil dipped in Coca-Cola.

5. To clean corrosion from car battery terminals: Pour a can of Coca-Cola over the terminals to bubble away the corrosion.

6. To loosen a rusted bolt: Apply a cloth soaked in Coca-Cola to the rusted bolt for several minutes.

7. To remove grease from clothes: Empty a can of coke into a load of greasy clothes, add detergent, and run through a regular cycle. The Coca-Cola will help loosen grease stains.

8. It will also clean road haze from your windshield.

Now the question is, would you like a Coke or a glass of water?"

More info. on Indian farmers using Coke as a pesticide.

Coca-Cola kills insects & living organisms.

According to a recent news article, organic food is becoming easier to find. This news article (text re-printed below) describes how grocery stores and restaurants in Wichita, Kansas are offering a wider selection of organic foods.

Organic Matters
From the Wichita Eagle

Organic food is becoming easier to find in Wichita — and finding its way to more cooks and diners. Devotees of organic food know what's in store for them in Wichita: Their options for dining out are severely limited. They pay more for the food they prepare at home. Some people think they're, well, a little flaky. But for a growing number of people, the cost and inconvenience of going organic is outweighed by the belief that they're helping both their bodies and the environment.

"I feel great when I eat them," said Debbie Margerum, who was buying organically raised eggs at the GreenAcres natural foods store last weekend. "You become healthier, and you're not spending your money on doctors and prescriptions." Such beliefs, while unprovable, are nonetheless what help drive the organic food business. Food industry sources estimate that sales of organic food have been growing nationwide at a rate of about 20 percent a year, though those sales still represent only about 3 percent of all sales.

Interest in organic foods is highest on the coasts, but Wichita seems to be partaking of the trend, too. Green Acres, in Bradley Fair, recently more than doubled the space devoted to organic produce and other foods, giving it the largest such selection in the city, and added seating for its deli. A local chain, Whole Foods, added a third location at Maize and 21st several years ago. Supermarkets such as Dillons and Food 4 Less have begun carrying a limited amount of organic food products. And other longtime purveyors of organic foods, such as Food For Thought and the Taste of Health restaurant, show no signs of slowing down.

Organic food fans aren't a homogeneous lot. Some are also vegetarians, vegans and even raw food enthusiasts, but others cheerfully eat meat. Many who have had health problems view organic food as part of an alternative, holistic approach to healing, while others are more concerned about the effects that modern agricultural practices have on the environment as a whole. Wichita artist Chris Brunner became a vegan — one who eats no meat or dairy products –"cold turkey" while reading an article about the cattle and poultry industries 20 years ago. That made finding a place to dine out in Wichita difficult enough, but when he also embraced organically raised foods about 1 ½ years ago, the situation became nearly hopeless. Fortunately, Brunner is a talented cook who enjoys entertaining at home.

"Most of the time if somebody wants to get together for dinner, I'd just as soon make dinner," he said. Like many vegetarians and vegans, Brunner says he originally found himself trying to "replace" meat in recipes. But these days, he prefers to let the flavors of fresh vegetables and fruit stand on their own. He grows some of his own produce during the summer and buys certified organic products whenever possible. He acknowledges that the latter cost more but says, "You're getting at least 40 percent more nutrients out of food, and it's much better for the environment, and that's worth considering. It's kind of like the old adage: 'Pay me now or pay me later.' "

Sherill Miles, a Nebraskan who comes to Wichita for alternative medical treatment at the Center for the Study of Improvement in Human Functioning, says she is convinced that pesticides caused many of the serious medical problems she has experienced through the years. She stays away from foods with labels full of "things you can't even read." She has nothing against meat, buying a whole cow — organically raised — for her family each year. Beyond that, she hasn't converted any family members to the organic food cause. Miles said her husband "thinks this is quackery." To be sure, there's also a political and economic aspect to the organic food movement that dates back to its founding in the 1960s counter culture.

"Our bodies are overwhelmed by toxins," said Kim Bannon, who blames pesticides and genetically modified seeds produced by huge multinational food companies. About three years ago, Bannon started eating only organically raised vegetables in their raw state after hearing a talk in California by David Wolfe. She has helped bring the colorful Wolfe (he describes himself as a "nudist, Buddhist and raw foodist") to Wichita for two appearances since then. During his most recent visit, at First Unitarian Universalist Church, tables were set up offering everything from mesquite meal ("made of seed pods from the mesquite tree") to fresh coconut juice to something called maca –"ancient Peruvian superfood."

"Our only vote really is with our dollar," Bannon said. Peter Horsley takes a less extreme approach, buying organic versions of foods that are otherwise heavily sprayed with pesticides, lack taste (free-range chicken "is more moist") and aren't too costly. "I get what tastes good and seems reasonable," he said.

Several people have told me that they believe it's more important to eat organic foods than it is to eat raw. I believe that the best health comes from organic produce eaten in a raw state. However, if you're struggling with the "raw" element, AT LEAST make sure you're eating organic fruits and vegetables. The following article briefly highlights the dangers of pesticides.

Pesticides

The E.P.A, the Environmental Protection Agency, reports that approximately 70 pesticides now in use are 'probable' or 'possible' cancer-causing agents. In addition to being sprayed on fruits and vegetables, they're also used on grains that are fed to cattle, chickens, and other livestock. These chemicals may lodge in the animals' tissues and milk, which are ingested by humans. Some studies have suggested that exposure to low levels of pesticides for long periods of time can cause breast cancer. Women who avoid eating animal products altogether have been shown to have much smaller concentrations of pesticides in their breast milk.

Another way to avoid pesticides or limit your exposure to them is to purchase organic produce. Once available only at 'health food' stores and markets, many big supermarket chains now carry organic produce, grains, and processed foods, such as breads, which are made with organic products. Laws vary from state to state as to what can be labeled 'organic,' so check to find out what your local laws are. To avoid pesticide contamination, peel and wash all fruits and vegetables, although some chemicals can't be washed away. Use a vegetable scrub brush on foods whose outer peel you're going to eat. Even though the U.S. doesn't ban the use of pesticides in agriculture, it does have the highest standards concerning their use, so you may want to limit or avoid consuming produce brought in from other countries.