Childrens Fever Relief Alternatives

Recently my son had a fever, and its so true how moms can tell just by feeling, even though he seemed unaffected by it.  But I always worry when they are sick.  So I let the fever run free during the day, his body and head were on fire and I kept asking if he was ok, and he said he was, and seemed it other then a little sleepy.  A fever should almost never be treated with pain relievers, I think most people know this but it may be missed by new moms.  The body needs to heat up internally to fight off viruses.  So its a good thing, its not a good thing if temp is extremely high, or if the child is violently ill, you should get medical attention. 
However there are someways to intervene without harming the fevers natural progression.  Oregano oil should be in everyones medicine cabinet, great for any type of illness and is recongnized as a cure for herpes and many other viruses, so do some research on it.  For fevers you can place a drop or 2 on the bottom on the foot and rub it in, you should see results within ten minutes, a reduced fever, I did one drop, checked 20 mins later and he was cooler, then he started heating up an hour later I placed another drop on both feet, rubbed it in, checked him in 10 mins he was cooler, and had stayed this way all night, seems it was completely gone.  This method doesnt interfere, you should not cool the body down, by the way of medicine or baths unless advised to by a doctor, because the virus will live.  Instead by doing the oregano oil, it kills the virus, and by placing it on the feet its absorbed into your system. 

Also another method thats gotten alot of great results is placing egg whites on your feet.  Dip the paper towels in egg whites and place on your feet.  I havent used this method but if the oregano oil didnt work for me this would be my second choice.

Also for headaches organic apple cider vinegar mixed in water with or without honey helps.

Well its been awhile but the weather has been so nice, so summer will be slow on the blog, but I will be writting about weight loss, which is always important around summer but maintaining it is more important.  This comes from what works for me and hopefully you will get something out of it that works for you. 

Most Harmful Food Additive

MSG or Monosodium glutamate as its also know is a silent killer, and can be found in a wide range of foods.  Its most well known in chinese food.  However you can find it in canned soups, meats, crackers, frozen foods, baby food, and salad dressings. 
In the book ‘Breakthrough’, Dr. Russell Blaylock explains that MSG is an excitotoxin which basically ‘excites’ neurons to death. Excitotoxins cause neurons to fire their impulses rapidly until they die of exhaustion, which is how neuroscientists came to name these substances.
Regular consumption of MSG can lead to
Obesity
Cancer
Brain damage
Heart damage
Eye damage
Fatigue and disorientation
Depression
Damage to fetuses
Fertility issues
Migraines

Here are some ingredients that MSG is always found in

Autolyzed yeast extract
Glutamate Glutamic
Acid Hydrolyzed Protein
Monopotassium Glutamate
Monosodium Glutamate
Sodium Caseinate
Textured Protein
Yeast Extract
Yeast Food
Calcium
Caseinate
Gelatin
Yeast Nutrient

The best way to avoid it is my cooking your own meals from scratch, and avoiding fast foods, using natural spices and herbs, and read labels.

Shoppers guide to the Dirty Dozen

Depression a Natural Way

I think this is a common topic that hits home for most people, and most of those people feel like they are a  slave to it, and cannot find a way out.  I definately do not support the pharma companys idea of helping people with depression, the risk of those medications seems too high.. Although I will say I am guilty of taking many of these medicines when I was younger.  What I want you to know from a personal experience is that at times I felt relief but never felt it helped.  I do think it does more harm then good.  I want people to know that there is a cause, a reason why you are feeling this way, and it maybe more then a situation you are dealing with in life, as depression is actually very easy to have if any part of your body isnt healthy.  There are many contributing factors, of course but I think its important to read through some of these in the following webpage at the bottom of the page, its great insight from someone who can explain more indepth then I can.  Some things causing a depression which feels like it wont lift, can often be an allergy, a parasite, nutrient deprived, heavy metal toxicity, lack of light, sleep or food, excess weight.  I think a great place to start is at your naturopaths office they can start to narrow down the root cause through testing.  I found out my bouts with anxiety had more to do with a Iron deficiency, then something I thought I had to live with, my iron should have been around 70 and it was in the low 20s.  I also cant say enough about omega 3-6-9 with DHA oil, the one I use is by Udo's, I believe they changed it and no longer use fish oil as when I opened the new bottle there is no fishy smell which is better for most people, as I had mention before I make a "slop" LOL thats what I call it.  Its yogurt, omega oil, flax seeds, cinnamon which masks the fish taste and odor, but is beneficial to have at least a teaspoon a day, my liquid V-D, and fruit.  My kids also eat this as omegas are extremely important for their brain function.  A large part of our brain is made of DHA which is why its important to also have this DHA suppliment in the omegas.  Next you need to get out and exercise, even if its just a walk, even a slow walk.  To me its not about the excercise but about moving your body, to give the bodys chemicals a push, and insulin levels up.  When we are depressed we dont want to move, and we want to sleep, so this is important, should be done everyday.  Now when I see people jogging biking or walking I think to myself I bet that person has commited to doing this for there mental well being.  I could be wrong but it doesnt matter what matters is I remove the word exercising with mental well being.  Food plays a huge part, you should be eating as organic as you can, real food, food you have to make.  No frozen foods, no packaged food, lots of water, also make sure your juice is real not concentrate.  A good one is by Happy Planet, but my favorite is by presidents choice at SuperStore its an Organic orange juice. I mix it half with water.  Next I think its important to buy a light for seasonal disorders, lets face it in Canada we have maybe 5 months of light.  It should make you feel good like the days the sun shines through the windows and you have all this positive energy, and take your liquid V-D, I dont suppliment this in the summer months just winter and its dirt cheap to buy.  Also check your B Vitamin intake I believe almost all of us are deficient.  I do take a B12 shot once a month as Im also extremely low.  Its helped a great deal with energy and also gave me a lift up since having the shot it made me feel better then I can ever remember, I also accomplished more then I have in a very long time, is like an extreme caffeine rush without the rush or buzz.  Caffeine is also a good thing to cut out if you have anxiety or depression.  I would do some blood tests, make sure you are not deficient in vitamins, test for heavy metals, Food allergies which include preservatives, check for parasites,  adrenal glands the ND's have a ton of tests they can do, and for anyone who hasnt seen one it is such a great experience, and they really try and find the problem rather then trying to patch it up, and I do believe they can help anyone feel better. Be prepared to spend money, its not cheap, but health to me is a priority as it should be for you too.  I believe most people have up to $400.00 they can get back from their benefits plan, for visits to their ND.  Please take the time to read the following website it might be informative for you or someone you know.  I do believe the suffering can stop, and it is something that can be cured without  big pharma.

The Naturopathic Medical Research Clinic  

ORTHOMOLECULAR TREATMENT FOR DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, & BEHAVIOR DISORDERS

Join a Growing Movement!

The fact is, over 50% of British Columbians now buy organic food some or all of the time. A 2003 opinion survey commissioned from Synovate Research for the COABC showed that 53% of British Columbians now purchase organic food at least occasionally. The majority of organic shoppers purchase their organic foods at mainstream grocery stores, although farmer’s markets and other direct-to-consumer sales continue to be important sources for regular and frequent organic consumers. Nationally, Agriculture Canada estimates organic retail sales will grow by 20% a year.
-Source Farm Fresh Organics

This is amazing to me I wouldnt have guess that the percentage was actually that high, even if its occassionally, that means people are making a change!! Good for us, Say NO to Pesticides and GM food! 

COABC Great website on why we should eat organic

I have been busy making my Tutu orders, this site gives some insight to organics, most people do know why we should be eating organic but Its nice to freshen up on the topic.  There are lots of organic farms in BC, so you can buy your food locally, some will even deliver to you if needed.  I support the organic farmers where they are certified or not, if they are not certified chances are you can get it a bit cheaper, untill they are.  It takes up to five years of meeting up to standards for them to be offically certified, but I think this food is just as good as they are still following regulations.  Save On has some good organic meats but they also carry a brand next to the organic that isnt certified just yet and they sell cheaper, as they are awaiting certification..

Why Organic is healthier

Your Body's PH

For optimal health our body likes to sit slightly alkaline,  however most of us are too acidic.  When we eat our food is digested and what is left is a ash residue thats either acidic or alkaline.  If acidic its elimated through our skin, intestines, kidneys, or lungs.  Most of us are acidic and our bodys try and rid of this by neturalizing the acid with oxygen, and minerals found in food, like vegetables or herbs.  If these are avaliable then our PH is balanced, its important to stay alkaline for many health reasons, people who have consisitant inflamation, will benefit from changing there PH,  acidity causes inflamation.  Stress, anxiety, and sleeplessness can also product too much acidity.
"The body fluids of healthy people are slightly alkaline while the same fluids of those who are sick range from s lightly to extremely acidic. The degree of acidity significantly affects the body’s ability to prevent
and/ or reverse illness and disease , including such degenerative diseases as cancer, diabetes, heart disease , and osteoporosis . I highly recommend that in order to avoid disease and premature aging, the body should remain in a s lightly alkaline condition." - Suggested by Sam Graci.
If you were to drink one glass of pop, you would have to drink 32 glasses of water with a ph of 7.0 to eliminate the bad effects.  
If you want to start seeing how acidic your body maybe and learn how to correct it and balance your PH, its actually pretty simple.  You can buy PH strips, and in the morning before anything using your urine or siliva,  to get a reading, do not put the paper in your mouth to get the reading =)  It will then change color and you have your answer, you can keep track of it for a month to see how it changes.  Ideally in the morning your urine PH should be between 6.8 and 7.4. And siliva 6.6-6.8.
Any number below 7 means your too acidic where as 7 indicates neutral.
There is also a connection between your mental state and PH.  People who are more alkaline have a better out look on life, score higher on IQ tests.  People who are sick or have cancer or other disease, its important for them to keep alkaline, which protects their cells, where and acidic body will destroy them. 
There is a link at the bottom, it has a great chart that you can print and put on your fridge, I fold mine in half or draw a line down the 7.0 so its a clear indication of which foods are acidic and which are alkaline.  If you eat something acidic from the chart you can choose a food in the same chart whether its low med or high to neutralize it. 

PH Food Guide

Sam Graci Video info On PH - click though the bottom links on this page for more video's on PH

Cat Scratch Fever....Again!?

By the end of January I knew something was wrong.  What I thought might be lymphnodes under my arms or upper breast side of my chest, were pulsing.  I also was feeling really tired, and this was consistant pain, all day.  So I finally made it the doctors and they did extensive blood work, I mentioned I thought it might be cat scratch fever and I would like to be tested for it, considering the only thing to change in my life was a cat within the month.  3 out of the 4 doctors said its high unlikely thats what you have, I had done some research on it before going in thinking if I can help elimate the possibilites, the faster we would have an answer.  So when I mentioned this none of them had knowledge of what it was, as I was having to explain this condition, while they looked at me puzzled.
Seems I have 2 bacteria found in my blood from the cat scratch blood test, the levels of them were so low at the time, we assumed it was leaving my body, it was 2 weeks after the inital visit that I got the results, and I was feeling alot better, it just dissappeared.  However I was told I had LAMBS disease, when I went in for my results, good thing I got a copy of the blood results, and looked up Bartonella henselae, and Bartonella quintana which is Trent fever.  I was assured that I shouldnt have to be treated for it.  But the last couple weeks Im feeling tired again, and slowly my pain was coming back, even the vet assured me that it was probably gone from the cat as well as I wanted to make sure there was no way to be re-infected.  Let me also note that not only did doctors not know about Cat Scratch Fever, the other 2 vets I called also didnt know, its not common because most people go without know they have it, they know somethings wrong but if you dont request the test you might never know, and because the virus usually only lasts a month, its hard to catch.   So now in this moment the pain is bad enough that I need to go get tested again.  I really didnt think it could come back.  I ate a small piece of chocolate and I think it set it off.  I have noticed the pain throbs more with sugary food, so Im going to cut them out!  But this doesnt surprise me based on the knowledge of ingesting sugar.  I took a tbs of apple cider vinegar, to balance the ph, and to reduce swelling and toxins. Within ten mins or less the pain stopped and there is no sensitivity when I touch the area.
Im extremely frustrated if this is what I have AGAIN.  But at the same time extremely relieved, its nothing worse, Im still a little bit cautious, it may be something more, but I think thats a normal fear, especially with lymphodes.  Oh btw I was told by a doctor that I dont have lymphnodes where I feel the pain, Im no medical doctor so I dont dispute someone who has years of medical training, but I do wonder about the level of training now..
Anyways seems like a fluky thing that I got it because it mostly affects children,  seems no one else in the family has it..
For people who dont know you get Cat Scratch Fever from a scratch or siliva, your suppose to get a pimple like reaction on your skin, and then the closes lymphnodes to the infected area will swell, I didnt get a pimple or infected area infact I couldnt even see a the scratch it may have been from,  so Im assuming there is sometimes delay before you feel the effects.  Its also followed by low energy, wanting to sleep, and fevers, and chills, I havent gotten fevers or headaches, thank goodness I dont know how I would function here with the kids.
So lets just hope its nothing worse and I will be and my cat will be properly treated without relapse.

Information on Cat Scratch Fever

Alternative Treatment for Cancer

Dr. Gonzalez’s does more then just cure cancer, but his cancer treatments have been getting alot of recognition.  I think its important for people to know there are other alternatives to chemo or tradtional ways of treating cancers. There is a great story of one womens fight with stage four Burkitt's Lymphoma.  Please read the article if your interested, and pass on the alternative treatments even if its not for you I think people should know that there are other choices.

A Stage IV Cancer Survival Story by Dr Gonzalez Patient

Dr Gonzalez

Oil of Oregano

The essential oil of this plant has been used by man fo thougands of years of health benefits as well as a food and spice.  The major active ingredient in oil of oregano is the natural phenol know as carvacrol.  Synthetic versons such as carbolic acid have been used in hospitals for stertilization of surgical tools, but the carvacrol found in the oregano oil is a more powerful antiseptic.  Noted by W.H Marindale, "The essentail oil of oregano is the most powerful plant-derived antiseptic known.  It is 26 times more active as an antiseptic then [synthetic] phenol. - Source Health first Alert.

 Its recommended for bacteria, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections.  Its considers one of the medicine cabinet essentials to have.  I have been using this, its extremely powerful if your using it interally,  but so effective, I have also used it for a cold sore on my lip and taken it internally, I have tried everything natural and pharmacutical to get rid of these, and I have used the oregano oil right on the spot of infection, this was the first time that it didnt fester, and started to heal immediately healing time was reduced, and I have read of certain treatments of the oil used in the spine where the virus is thought to live when dormant, to rid it completely from your body, so yes there is a cure for herpes, people have also been using it for the HIV and AIDs virus.  I believe you can find some of that info on Earth Clinic. 

*Always make sure to check with a ND or GP if you are on Pharmacutical drugs, and would like to take a herbal remedy, I do think that even herbal remedies should be discussed with a ND.

More info go to:

Wild Oregano Oil

Himalayan Salt Lamps

These salt rocks were formed over 250 million years ago.  They are found in deep caverns in the earth, being untouched by pollution.  As the lamp heats up, it releases negitive ions.  Great for people who have asthma, or allergies.  Also wonderful to use around electrical equipment.  They emit a soft glow of light.  And can be placed in any room to add tranquility.  They come in many sizes and shapes.  You can also buy the salt to cook or bath in.  They are becoming readily avaliable in your local stores, or you can find them online. 

Solay Wellness

Cleaning Products

Too many products claim to be Safe and Natural or Green. However they really are not. With all the cleaners in a shop, your lucky to find 1% of them that actually are what they claim. A good way to do this is by turning over any product from cleaners to soaps to food, if you cant make sence of that long word on the back, chance are high its something you dont want to be using. A "clean non toxic" product will be all words you recognize, and can say!!

First and foremost I use completely "Clean" products in my home, because I need to be around for my family, and I need my family to stay as healthy and bright as they can be! I can tell you as a person who uses virtually no chemicals this being a long list of of non toxic natural living. Im instantly bothered by chemical perfumes, those scented candles and airfresheners that we all have been guilty of over spraying, and of course cleaners, that are being used to make you and your home smell better! When I got my natural smell back, I can tell you in the nicest way possible that our noses have been programed to thinking these things smell good, one thing that bothers me is that take inconsideration babys and pets who have a natural nose, these chemical laden sprays and scents are very very strong to someone who doesnt have a tolerance to them, yet they are speechless to tell you how strong and affecting they are. For instance Im a grown women, and I get a dizzy high when I smell these things being used in someones home, its really hard for me because you dont want to insult anyone, but at the same time when you start feeling sick, from something they think smells "clean and fresh" its hard not to say anything, I like to enlighten people to a different way.. Most look at me like im nuts but as long as I can maybe give someone another option thats all I can do!

As you hopefully can tell by now Im very passionate about living a non toxic, natural life, Im not perfect in it, but its taken me alot of years to get to the knowledge now that I have and I can definately save people time from researching and trying to find things that work in there home.
These cleaners are just as effective as anything with chemicals, but I can feel safe knowing that if my children or pets get into them, or when I use them that its harmless. They say inside our home the air quality is more toxic then outside of it!? You have to wonder why. Using chemical cleaners will last in the air for 4 hours after use. One of the biggest things you can do is stop using your bleach, does it really make sence to spray bleach on high chairs, baby toys, and even inside fridge produce bins, dishes and counter tops is a good, "clean" thing?

If your wanting to disinfect anything from toys to bathroom or the house after flu season, it can be done safely and effeciently, with a 99% effectiveness with the ongoing benefits from using the non toxic natural cleaning.

Healthier oils

Do people still use margarine?  I dont know why anyone would!?  Here are some facts about margarine;

• Margarine is but ONE MOLECULE away from being PLASTIC
• Margarine is initially BLACK, but it is DYED YELLOW to look like
  butter purchase a tub of margarine and leave it in your garage or shaded area, no flies, not even those pesky fruit flies will go near it (that should tell you something) nothing will grow on it...even those teeny weeny microorganisms will not find a home to grow.
• it does not rot or smell differently because it has no nutritional value
• The final product also contains nickel, cadmium and often other very toxic contaminants

Does the marketing make us feel safe, saying it contains olive oil, or has omegas, among other things.  Doesn't really matter if they add vitamin E, omegas or olive oil, as soon as its heated whether its in the process of production, or in your pan, its no good to us.  I would hope anyone who is using margarine would make a switch. 
I don't even use butter, but Im not against butter, I think if your using margarine, organic butter is a better switch.  I have been using healthy oils in replacement for butter, but on occassion you will fine organic butter in my fridge. Example of some oils for cooking are;

• Olive oil - although no good for heating this oil should be used only in cool or room temperature dishes it loses all its value once heated.
• Grapeseed oil - considered to be the chefs choice in cooking sautéing, medium high heat frying, baking and oil infusing.
• Almond oil- High Heat Up To 495°F,
• Safflower oil - for high heat has a light taste
• Sunflower- for high heat

You can find a list of wonderful cooking oils at the bottom link to Spectrum.  Spectrum makes some great healthy oils, including organic.  They also list the type of oils and what they are great for, for instance on says its great used in pancakes, or baking.  They tell you on the front of the bottle what type of heat they can stand.  And most of them are muli purpose, you can use them as a massage oil, carrier oil, oil pulling and use oils on my face as well I love it.  So try something new and throw out that margarine if you havent already!!

 Spectrum Organics

Healthy Summer Snack

This is a great alternative to freezies.  They are banana pops,  and they are not going to drip and make a mess so great for toddlers.  Take regular yellow bananas, cut them in half and  place them on skewers or popsicle sticks.  Then roll them in yogurt, then granola, or anything else healthy you can think of, then place them on a plate or tray lined with was paper, then freeze, these freeze really fast and kids love them!

Yummy Finnish Pancakes

1 Cup Flour
1/4 or 1/2 Cup Of Sugar
1 Cup Milk
2 eggs

Mix sugar and eggs, then alternate flour and milk.  Heat an oiled pan, and cook like a regluar pancake.  The batter will be runny, these pancakes are very thin, its good to make a nice stack on a plate, with a little butter and syrup, I make a fruit syrup, with sugar, water, lemon, fruit, maple syrup, I dont have a reciepe and I dont measure, so its hard to share the exact measurements but its so yummy.  Of course you should use all organic ingredients and you can substute the sugar for xylitol, or stevia. 

Baby & Toddler Proper Shoes

I wonder if shoes for babys and toddlers are over looked, so I thought it would be good to write about it.. Too often I see children in footwear that is really cheap, you know the kind from Walmart.  When children are learning how to walk they should have shoes that have a very soft and flexable bend without much pressure.  Which most of these cheaper shoes do not have.  I always do the flex test, before I buy, its also good if you can actually measure your childs foot, shoes can range and little kids like to curl their toes when they try on shoes so you cant always count on the thumb rule.  Its important to do the flex test because kids will not beable to flex the shoes if its hard, most shoes have some flex just make sure its easy for you to flex.  There is a great shop called Panda Shoes, they will measure baby and toddler feet and only sell baby and toddler shoes, however they do carry some name brand shoes which do not pass the flex test.  I personally have bought all my baby and toddler shoes from a brand named See Kai Run, they make cute shoes but most inportant is they are Podiatrist approved, and made from soft leather, a flexable rubber sole, with a wide comfy fit.  The only problem is once your child is up to a size 9 I believe thats as big as they come.  As they get older you dont need to worry so much about the flex as they are strong enough to create it.  However I still would never recommend the cheap hard plastic shoes for anyone, even if they do have the disney princesses or Cars on them, Forget it.  Now that my kids have out grown See Kai Run's they now sport DC's just like Mommy and Daddy!  I like them because they are comfy, wide, the bend is good, they make them in velcro, and they are stylish within budget. 

See Kai Run Shoes

DC Shoes

Babys & Laundry

This kinda boggles my mine.. Most of us know by advertisements or our mothers that when we have our babys, we should be using a sensitive baby detergent.  What bothers me is there is some disconnect here.  We know we shouldnt be using our regular laundry soap, but how much better is a sensitive formula directed at babys??  I think none!  Instead we should purchase a chemical free, non toxic, laundry soap.  There are actually alot of great alternatives out there.  I have used a few of them,  Right now I use a brand by Eco's I like this one because my husband finds that he likes a scent, as most of the natural soaps are unscented.  It is made with 100% natural coconut kernel oil-based surfactant, horsetail plant, lavender, coconut based fabric softener, essential oils of magnolias and lilies, with purified water.  I have also used Seventh Generation, as well as Natures Choice, I really think Natures Choice. But just remember to read labels, the more you do this the easier it gets.  If you cant read the word, dont buy it, go home and research it, if all the other ingredients are natural. There are also Soap Nuts, they are actually berries, they will make your clothing nice and soft.  I also never use "bounce" in the dryer,  this stuff is soo so toxic. 
You can add a cup of baking soda to the wash this will help clean, remove smells, and soften.
Or add a cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle, helps with smell, cleaning, softens, and cling
And for the bounce replacement add a few drops of essential oils to a wet facecloth and throw it in the dryer with the wet clothes.

Rocky Mountain Soap Company 100% Natural Bath & Body

I was first introduced to this company, when my Auntie gave me a body butter stick to try on my son who had really dry skin around his mouth from teething.  She had used it on her son as well, it worked really well, and was easy to use, it can also be used for eczema.  I have also used a liquid crystal deodorant by them, and its great!  For being a natural deodorant it smell great and works.  This store is a great alternative to The body shop, I know that even for me its hard to give up that store, but they use alot of chemicals.  Has anyone been to the Rocky Mountain Soap company?  I would like to checkout there store, seems they have alot of products, I might be interested to try.  Ive only tried these 2 products but Im so happy with how they work I had to recommend it. 
Locations in B.C, Alberta, & Winnipeg

Rocky Mountain Soap Company

Non Toxic Sunscreen by Lavera

This is what Ive been using for my kids.  I like it because its the purest sunscreen I can find.  Its by Lavera, you can order it on there website or you can find it in London Drugs.  The new 2010 line includes European regulations, if you dont know already, Europe has some of the best laws that ban alot of these toxic ingredients that we are using here in North America.  Its made from 100% natural mineral pigments, which protect agains UV-A,B,C.  The chemical compounds found in synthetic sunscreens, have been found stored in body fat and breast milk, these chemicals can mimic estrogen.  These sunscreens are also reef friendly, and biodegradable.  Its also great for people who have sensitive skin or skin allergies, its fine for people who also have eczema, or  dermatitis. It does contain some organic ingredients as well.  I prefer the cream over the spray, but my kids are little so the spray gets everywhere unless you spray it in your hands.  It shouldnt be used on babys younger then 6 months.

To calculate your SPF follow these guidelines:

Fair skin – can stay in the sun 10 minutes before burning

Olive skin – can stay in the sun 15 minutes before burning
Dark skin – can stay in the sun 20 minutes before burning
Now multiply SPF by the number of minutes you can stay in the sun before burning. For example: (SPF) 20 x 10 (Fair skin) = 200 minutes (amount of time you can stay in the sun before burning if you have Fair skin and use an SPF of 20).

Lavera

A Spoonful of Sugar Helps the Medicine go Down?

Would you put this much sugar in your coffee?

This is a topic that can go on and on.  But Im going to make it short.  We all know that sugar isnt good for us, but sometimes I get a craving for sweets and as long as they are in the house, I can hear it calling me from the kitchen.  So I think once in a while its ok.  I find I binge on sugar, I go along time no cravings, but if i give in I feel like an addict, so its a bad cycle and I should just stay away! 
A spoonful of  refined sugar ( 1 teaspoon) can suppress your immune system, and our white blood cells for 6 hours.  Cancer also feeds off sugar, this is scary considering there is refined sugars in almost everything.  In a 16 oz soft drink there are up to 12 teaspoons of sugar, and most people I know that drink pop, dont just drink a glass, sometimes this is all they drink, nevermind the food on top of it.  Also becareful with over the counter medications for your children, even the frozen electrolites, they are super high in sugar and in toxic dyes.  If you use a childrens pain reliever always get  the dye free ones, no reds, or purples, it should be clear.  Another note, if your child has a fever within safe limits please dont treat it unless the child is in unbearable pain.  Fevers are the bodys natural response to viruses, and will fight it off, please dont hinder it, many children play and act normal even with fevers.  I always get freaked out when my kids are sick. 
Many grandparents and relatives think they are giving your children a treat or spoiling them with cookies and candies, and treats, but in meaning well they are doing more harm then good.  And I think your children should still eat the same way they do at home.  I do have exceptions to holidays, and I do occassionally let them have treats, but what Ive learned is if you dont introduce them to this type of food, they never care for it. In other words they dont know what they are missing.

This site you can pick on a food like turkey dinner and see how much sugar you are eating check it out
Remember that not all sugars are created equal, you will see fruit on this page and they show the sugar cubes, but natural sugar is differnt then the refined.
Sugar Stacks

Planting Herbs

Well its that time of year..spring time and its time to start thinking about what to plant, or maybe you have always wanted to grow something.  Herbs are the simplest and most rewarding in my opinion.  And you can grow a lot, in a short period of time and use them all winter long till you start fresh again in the spring.  Im hesitant to grow anything in the soil in my yard, I much prefer to grow in containers or somthing that doesnt have connection to the soil in the yard.  Mainly because I dont know what has ever been put on my lawn whether it be, fertilizer (which will shortly be banned in B.C)  or miracle grow, or a range of other things.  One example that concerns me is part of my backyard is a retaining wall, because I live on a mountain, some yards have this, but what I noticed is there is some kind of tar or oil coming off of the wood you can even smell it if you touch it, its seeping out.  It rains here all winter and I wonder how much of this is in the soil.  My neighbours that I share the wall with grown alot of veggies I can see it growing over my fence, and I often wonder about how toxic there soil maybe that they are growinig food in,  and I get the run of naturally from the street infront of there house, so I will never grow anything in yard soil.  I do have a large wood box that I plant in. To start a herb garden, all you need is organic soil, no fertilizers need.  Herbs can grow in some of the worst conditions they really arent too fussy.  You could even grow them in a rocky sandy area, and for sun and shade they arent too demanding, however last years they had little sun due to where they were and they grew find just not as big, so I moved it this year for more sun.  You really cant go wrong.  Just know some of these herbs grow like weeds.  Mint will grow and grow so it needs to be cut back and trimmed alot.  I grow all the herbs in the same pot, just beware if you do this they may pick up the aroma's of the other herbs your growing.  Cut them as needed through the summer for food, that should be all the trimming they need, if you see them start to flower cut the flower bud or flower off and use it or continue to let it grow.

I harvest them usually end of September or October, really just depends on the weather, and just a gut feeling for me.  I also harvest on a harvest moon or a harvest day which you can find in a farmer almanac,  I dont know why I do this, I have just done this years ago when I first planted herbs I think I was about 17.  Now I love the harvest, I look forward to it every year, because it simply is the reward, but I cant say it was hard work at all even if you never did any maintance to the herbs all summer you will still be rewarded.  I like to tie some like the bundle shown, I tie them with string and then hand them upside down in a dark cool area, and let them dry then place them in air tight containers, but for the majority of the herbs I wrap them in wax or parchment paper and freeze them, that way they are fresh all winter long.  I also keep the herb sticks, and use them when I need to freshen up the house I just place them in boiling water and reduce to simmer for a few hours. 

A better way to also store garlic and ginger is also to freeze it and use it as needed, saves alot of money. 

Sophie the Giraffe

Sophie the Giraffe has been a favorite teething toy in France for more than 40 years. Since her creation in 1961, Sophie the Giraffe has wowed hundreds of babies (and parents!) with her natural beauty and charm. More importantly her flexible, renewable, natural rubber materials and non-toxic paint mean Sophie the Giraffe is a safe and all-natural teething toy for your little one.

I dropped this once while we were out shopping, and when I got home I couldnt find it anywhere, I had to go back to the store to buy a new one.  Its great for teething babys, or babys who like to put things in there mouth.  Its made from natural rubber, and the paint is non toxic, the great thing is there are many parts of Sophie that your baby can chew on, and its a fun toy, you can find it here;

Buy Sophie the Giraffe

Naturopathic Alternative Treatment

Physicians = Practice

Naturopathic Physicians = To First Do No Harm

Most people end up going to naturopatic doctors when they feel frustrated with the doctors of medicine.  "Patients" are named after the 'patience' they need to cope with a doctor's trials and errors.  I cant tell you how many times since I was of legal age needing to see a doctor, only for them to miss diagnose me,  and telling me i had 3 differnt things which I had none.  I really feel that unless I can see proof of what they are saying I take there opinions with a grain of salt.  I even got a copy of blood work that was done, and the doctor said that the bacteria in my blood was something it wasnt, if i didnt do my research when i came home, with the names of the bacteria found, it would have been a mistake by the doctor and myself becoming scared of what I was told I had.  In fact this is not the only time, I have also been told I could have breast cysts, and if I had a history of cancer was asked over and over to me, so when I left what am I to think about but the worst.  Turns out from x rays and an ultra sound they were wrong!  Even a doctor who said he could feel cysts.  What a Joke!  I couldnt feel it and the ultra sound came back with nothing. 

This is when I decided regardless of the result Im not being medically treated, even if worst case was cancer, I was going to be treated naturally.  This is how I ended up seeing my ND. 

Their training consists of the same undergraduate pre-medical courses, followed by at least four years of naturopathic medical education, including pharmacology and minor surgery. In the United States and Canada, the designation of Naturopathic Doctor (ND) or naturopathic medical doctor (NMD)may be awarded after completion of a four year program of study at an accredited Naturopathic medical school that includes the study of basic medical sciences as well as natural remedies and medical care. -Source from Wiki

I have a small background in herbal remedies, so like most people I found myself going to health food stores to pick up vitamins.  What Ive learned, opened a whole new world to me.  Im very cautious even with Vitamins or natural remedies, so I asked my ND about the purity of the suppliments she was prescribing to me.  I know myself that even childrens vitamins and suppliments can be doing more harm because of the fillers the company uses and where the actual source is coming from. For example most vitamins are manufactured in china even though the label may say something different, there have been high amounts of toxic chemicals, found in the most popluar brands of suppliments.  Please research before you ingest these products, yourself or your children.  You might be shocked.  The suppliments at your ND's office, can not be bought in any health food store.  But are of the highest purest forms with no fillers.  For instance my muliti must be taken 2, 3 times a day, your body is not absorbing all the vitamins in one does.  Also for iron, if you get it over the counter or from your doctor, you could be taking that for 10 years and it would do nothing for you because of the synthetic form.  I hope that by eating an organic diet that we can naturally get the most nutrients that our bodys need.  But I also think that if you need to suppliment the best thing to do is see your local ND so they can advise and treat you safely.  You should not give up your family doctor, as you should be working in conjunction with him and your ND.  But for my primary care it will be in the hands of someone who is sworn to do no harm, as a posed to someone who claims hes in a practice.

 

Rich Hippie

"Rich Hippie perfume is made using the traditional methods employed by perfumers before World War II and the advent of the chemical industry.
Prior to World War II, all fine perfume was 100% natural and chemical free. Perfume was made by combining extracts from flowers and plants that were almost always farmed organically or wildcrafted with 100% natural "spirits of wine" or wine alcohol distilled from grapes grown in the great wine regions of France. However, after the war, the chemical industry, which had experienced rapid growth in response to the war effort, needed new market to keep factories running and began manufacturing "fragrance" or synthetic perfume.
At first this may have looked like a great idea. The price of synthetic flower and plant extracts used to make perfume was dirt cheap by comparison. Furthermore, there was less hassle - no farming, no harvesting, no variation of flower scent from batch to batch and therefore no variation of a particular perfume from batch to batch. What's more, the imitation flower and plant essences used to make synthetic perfume were mixed with cheap alcohol made from petroleum instead of wine alcohol.
We now know that this process and product are hazardous to your health and harmful for the enviroment. Not only is petroleum a nonrenewable resource, but it is refined using harmful chemicals and additives that cause cancer. These synthetic chemicals can also contain "hormone disrupters" which means that in addition to causing cell damage, they can also mimic hormones in the body that promote tumor growth.

Rich Hippie perfume is made using traditional methods. Our "spirits of wine" or wine alcohol is all natural and better yet, it is made from organically grown grapes harvested from the great wine regions of California. All of the plant and flower extracts we use are organic or wildcrafted and carefully selected with the utmost attention to quality.
Rich Hippie perfume is made in very small batches with tremendous care, to bring you a product that is both safe for your health and safe for the enviroment.
Organic farming is a labor intensive system of farming that does not use synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, fungicides, growth hormones or livestock food additives. The majority of these chemicals can cause cancer and damage to the enviroment by seeping into the ground, contaminating our water supply, our fish, our food, and drifting in the air polluting the air that we breathe.

Please join us and support organic farming. Help us protect and preserve the enviroment for the benefit of future generations to come."  Source from   Rich Hippy

I have bought from Rich Hippy, the quality is of the highest, the best thing to do if you are interested in purchasing from them, is purchase a bunch of samples, that way it can narrow down what you like, since some of the perfume is expensive, they really are amazing scents.

Health Risks of Perfume
Rich Hippy

Cloth Diaper Delivery Service

I decided to do the cloth diaper thing, I found a great service that provided, a pickup and drop off service once a week.  I ordered my size and was able to order as much as I needed for the week.  You need to purchase the diaper covers, and a pail, and thats it, you pay monthy for the service.  One of the reason I decided to use cloth was that there are alot of toxic chemicals in diapers, I also thought how nice it would be not having to run to the store all the time to pick up diapers.  I use to own a well know diaper pail for regular diapers, but as much as they say it doesnt smell it really does.. The pails they use for cloth diapers are so simple but no smell.  The bag they leave at your door is full of fresh clean microfiber cloth diapers, once you empty it, the bag will be used to store your dirty diapers, you just place the bag in the pail as a liner, the pail has a lock cover and a carbon filter, you do not need to dump anything in the toilet or even clean them in the least, you just put the full dirty diaper in the pail, so as you can see its really convenient.  Then when the week is up just leave them outside your door and they will pick them up and drop off a new bag to you.  I will say that I did have to stop using them as my son developed a leg rash where the cover met,  I think if I had better covers it would have been fine.  Overall I did enjoy it and used it for about 6 months, and would recommend it to anyone.
They service B.C, Alberta, and Ontairo.

Happy Nappy

Safe Sippy

These are called Safe Sippy, when my kids were switching from bottles to sippy cups, I couldnt get these anywhere they were in high demand due to the BPA news at the time, I did finally get them, they are made of stainless steel, the handles can be removed, I prefered mine without handles, they are free of Bisphenol A, phthalates and DEHA, the Thermoplasitic rubber sleeve provides insulation and protection, they can go in the dishwasher and the cap is made from Polypropylene, #5 plastic.  I only used sippy cups mostly when we were out visiting or going for a truck ride, I really tried to get them to use regluar glass cups, now at 2 and 3 they dont spill anything, in fact I can hardly remember them using sippy cups.

PART 2 Baby Bottles

I wanted to mention these baby bottles as well, they are called Weego Glass baby bottles, I prefer these over Dr.Browns, its been sometime since I fed my children from a bottle and they slipped my mind but now that I recall them, there are reasons why I switched, In Dr.Browns bottles there is a center peice inside the bottle that helps the the milk go through with no air, but its a little bit of a pain to put all these pieces together, sometimes I would forget the middle piece and shake the milk and it would go everywhere.  Another thing was I dropped a few and was running low and needed to rebuy some bottles so I replaced them with these Weego Bottles, you can find them at boutiques or online, I really loved them, not only do they look stylish coming in many colors, they are protected by a rubber to soften there fall and I have dropped them without breakage, and are super easy to clean.

DHA & Omega Oil

Im sure we all are aware and heard of Omegas 3-6-9, but I wonder how many of us actually suppliment this in our diet.  I first started using as a last ditch effort to relieve some post partum anxiety, and tiredness.  It instantly lifted me up, and my fingernails were harder, I was amazed by the results, but many people are finding that there is a ton of reasons to take it. I have more information on a webpage its a quick to the point article on Omegas and DHA so you can get the information you need on it.  My kids are 2 & 3 and I do suppliment them with an Organic Omega oil with DHA in it, since there brains are still developing it essential for them to have the proper nutriences in there diet.  You can not use this oil in anything warm, and the one I use is a bit fishy, I know they make some with a lemon flavor but I didnt like it.  What I do to get rid of the smell, is I make a yogurt and granola breakfast or snack for the kids and me, the granola seems to suck up some of the oil, but to even further rid the smell and taste, I add organic cinnamon, its recommended that we have a tablespoon of cinnamon a day, its very good for us, so I add alot to mine,  then I add in 2000IU of vitamin D, I also add 2 tablespoons of ground organic flax seeds to it as well, if you let it the yogurt sit for a few mins it will soften up the seeds and granola making it a bit nicer to eat.  Not only are the flax seeds another omega but it helps with energy, and trust me I need it with 2 under 4.. I drink no coffee and find that I feel great, and keeps my mood in line. Always use suppliments with knowledge on how and what to give young children.  For more information on Omega's and DHA check out this site. 

Benefits-of-Omega-3-6-9-fatty-

Organic Crib Mattress

We spend anywhere from 6-8 hours a night in bed. Babys and small children can spend 10-14 hours. Since we spend a large amount in of time in bed, I think its important to lay our childrens head on organic non toxic bedding. The same non stick coating by Dupont's Teflon is a popular treatment used, the foam and flame retardants, are extremely toxic, not to mention most baby matresses are coated in a plastic or vinyl. Laying close and breathing in the chemicals from the matresses can be toxic to everyones health. There is a great indept and interesting article here Why You Should Choose a Organic Mattress. This is where I purchased 2 of them for my children. The "spring" is made from natural rubber, from the rubber tree, and is made with organic cotton, the mattresses extremely firm but soft. I would recommend this for any baby or toddler, and you can even purchase organic matresses for adults. Very high quality, you can purchase them here;


Little Tree House

Kid Friendly Non-Toxic Fingernail Polish... Natural as Mud!

My daughter like most other little girls loves getting her nails done, but I really hate everything but the color in nail polish. So I found this site, and on her birthday last year I bought some of their kid-friendly nail polish and remover.
I have to tell you at first I thought it wouldn't be very good. I mean cheap, thin looking color, and the remover says odorless, and I'm thinking SURE! But I was so impressed by this polish. Shipping was fast and there was a sale at the time, so I got two nail polishes and remover in a little bag. When I opened the polish there was no harsh smells at all, and it went on I would say better or just as good as, the polish you buy at the store. You can easily get away with just one coat. The colors are amazing and thick. It also drys really fast -- faster than the store stuff.
Next I tried the remover. Well I opened it and slowly, moved it to my nose, not knowing what to expect, but it truely has no smell. Can you believe it!? So how good is it going to remove my polish? It looks like water.  But there was no endless scrubbing. This is really a 10 out of 10 for me! Check them out! I have used this nail polish remover for regular nail polish and it works just as well.

SPECIAL
Piggy Paint is proud to introduce our new Project Earth line of polishes that are suited for young ladies who are concerned about Planet Earth. Neon colors and a glow-in-the-dark polish! On sale in April!


Piggy Paint

New Treatment for MS

Not sure how many people are aware of this new treatment, but I know living in Canada a lot of people here have MS. My husband's Aunt has the worst type of MS and she is now bed bound and needs help in every aspect of her life. I believe she dealt with it for 28 years and it progressed to what it is today.  People seem to get instant results, but with someone who has progressed it's unclear really what results she may have. Here is a video link:

The Liberations Treatment A whole New Approach

Earth Clinic Folk Remedies & ACV

This website is one of the best sites out there, in my opinion.  There are mountains of information, and numberous ailments, and on Alternative treatments.  You could spend so much time on this site, and I have it bookmarked and always refer to it when I need to.  One of the staff that answers people questions is extrememly knowledegable, his name is Ted, you will see his name throughout the website, and his information just blows me away!  Now if we only had doctors who were this knowledgeable in treating and preventing disease the world would be a better place.  If you enjoy this site make sure to pass it on.  Its like a huge forum, people from around the world can write in and make comments.  I dont think anyone could possible get through all the information here.  When I started using ACV (apple cider vinegar) this was a great reference for me.  There are too many benefits from ACV then I can mention, but it has helped my husband with his cat and seasonal allergies instantly, sinus problems, with instant results, more energy, indegestion problems, I use it to restore the PH on my face after cleasing, and have used it also for energy and circulation, also helps make your body more alkaline if you mix it in with water. 

Earth Clinic

How much is too much! No Real way to know

Simple enough, we wake up and one of the first things we do, is brush our teeth. We do this to maintain good health of our body and teeth,  but what if what you were doing was causing more harm then good?  Have you taken a moment to read the label on the box or tube of toothpaste, well if not it will look something like this;
              "WARNINGS: Keep out of reach of children under 6 years of age. If you accidentally swallow more than used for brushing, seek PROFESSIONAL HELP or contact a POISON CONTROL center immediately."

Since 1997 the FDA has mandated this warning be put on every Fluoride Toothpaste must be labeled.  I really wish we would follow the lead by the UK on many issues, here in north america we have this notion that we are most upto date and healthier then other countries, the truth is we are plain wrong, and its killing us, we are the sickest in the world.  Anyways the UK since 2005 has made it illegal to use flouride which was forced upon the people to use fluoride water, for drinking, cooking, and bathing.  When fluoride is added to water, with the intent to medicate, then that water becomes medicine. There teeth have not become worse since stopping the use of fluoride!
Susan king secretary of NAMAF, stated;
                    'There is now compelling evidence from the US that fluorides are carcinogenic linking them with bone cancer affecting young males. Water suppliers are not pharmacists! Its totally unacceptable to add a known cumulative protoplasmic poison to our tapwater. The fluoride dosing equipment must be switched off now!'
And I completely agree, one of the big reasons we get tooth decay is because of bone loss due to inadequate nutrience our bodies need.  In fact our bodys can restore our teeth, its proposed that oil pulling does reverse any tooth decay and corrects cavities, which dentists are stunned by.  However native tribes, never have these tooth decay issues because they are not ingesting our western diet, or processed, sugar laden, diet.  Its believed that the oil, for oil pulling corrects these problems because oils such as omegas and vitamins A, E, are high, and being absorbed into the body with this technique. 

Its hard to regulate just how much fluoride we are ingesting, with it in prepared foods, water, juices, canned food, pops, toothpaste, fluoride rinses.

Since my kids have been born I no longer use fluoride toothpaste, I was initally worried that my teeth would get worse, but they havent I have had no problems and either have my 2 children, I request at dentist visits that there be no fluoride rinses, and make sure to check that they use BPA Free clear fillings if you need to get that done.  I was amazed when I metioned to the dentists that I do not use fluoride, that they didnt frown upon it, all they say is fluoride helps keep your teeth strong, but I competely dissagree.  

I think its a common thing for most kids to eat toothpaste, i know i did, and i have seen my kids doing it to our non fluoride toothpaste.  If you use fluoride it should be stored away like medicine is.  My husband has Dental fluorosis, a condition caused by excessive ingestion of fluoride during the tooth forming years. It is the first visible sign that a child has been overexposed to fluoride. Dental fluorosis now impacts 32% of American children.  He said he use to eat the toothpaste from the tube, when he was little.  You can see the white patches along the front of his teeth. 

I use a great toothpaste made by a Canadian company called Green Beaver. 

Green Beaver
Good Read

Oil Pulling!? No More Dentist visits?

Has anyone done oil pulling?  Do you know what it is?  Well I had heard of it but only tried to imagine what it could be.. Well this is a therapy that you can do in your home, apparently it can cure all kinds of ailments, I do think this is something everyone should read up on, its a very interesting read and I will give you a really good website at the bottom of the page please take time to read through the site tabs.  Apparently this is a very old therapy, among many of the things it claims to cure one happens to be cavities and loose teeth, even teeth whitening! How is this possible, well by swishing the oil in your mouth in a forward and backwards movement you are activating the eliminatory system.  Acute diseases will be cured in two to four days by practicing Oil Pulling Therapy three times a day on empty stomach, before breakfast, lunch and dinner. Chronic diseases need more time may be up to one year or more depending on the condition of disease, age, habits, state of general health of the person, etc.  ..."When Dr Karsch examined the gargled milk-white oil under a microscope with 600 magnification, he saw live organisms swimming in it. It's poisonous, so never swallow it, he warns. These poisons are bacteria-embryos, which, if not eliminated, cause diseases. Apparently, Dr Karsach cured his own chronic blood disease and 15-year-old arthritis.

The first sign of improvement is in the teeth-they become firm and white, he says. Other healing indications: fresh, relaxed feeling on waking up, disappearing dark pouches below the eyes, anew appetite and energy, better memory and deep sleep.
Oil Pulling Basics, you will need to purchase a organic bottle of oil, preferable, sesame oil, take 1 tablespoons in your mouth and gently move it around in your mouth for 20 mins, do not swallow it as the oil will capture the toxins in your body, once the 20 mins is up spit it out and rinse, rinse, rinse your mouth with water. 
I have tried oil pulling and I was a little grossed out with the results, im getting over the shock of it and I think I will start again Id like to do it consistantly and see some results, seems as little as a week of doing it you can see results from it.  Please share your results if you try it.
Oil Pulling Great Read

Bath Time

The skin is the largest organ on your body, so why do we open our pores with hot water and then slather on the chemicals??  Lots of these chemicals used in most bathing products which include soaps, shampoos and conditioners, shaving creams, bubble bath, mineral oils.  Did you know that in Europe most of these chemicals are banned?  So why are they not banned here?  Well the same rules applies to bath products, if you cant pronounce it or understand the word chances are you shouldnt be using it.  Im so excited about a product from a local Vancouver based company, its called Calia you can get it at Save-On in the pharmacy or healthy alternative aisle.  There is nothing but goodness in these products you can read every ingredient, I really wish they had a website, hopefully they will in the future.  I use the hair and body wash on the kids and adults can use it too even tho it says for kids, and i use the shampoo and conditioner, i have tried the lotion, I find it a bit watery, and Im now using the rich cream, i love the thickness, it is unscented, but you can add your own scent using essential oils, i use these oils with a carrier oil on my face anyways so it doesnt bother me to add the oil to my cream.  The other big problem with Chemically laden bathing is the water, Im so soo luck that here in chilliwack nothing is added to the water it comes from a clean underground source and isnt even treated in anyway, thats right folks no flouride, chlorine, and whatever else is in most peoples water, its one of the cleanest supplies in the northern hemisphere.  But when I leave, I really feel the effects of the water, why are we allowing the goverment to not give each of us a choice, to have clean non toxic water.  So Im sure you can picture it now, you in the bath your pores open from the warm water absorbing the flouride, and chlorine, while applying chemical soaps and bubble bath and inhaling it off the steam, the chlorine was so strong at this one place I found I was trying not to breath it in, and some people use this water everyday, even to drink.  Its gets worse add a baby in the mix, I cant imagine what it must be like to be that tiny and developing, only they cant say anything.  And eventually these become everyday smells till you dont even notice it anymore.  I have a huge hate for mainstream baby products, if they really cared or had any morals at all they would discontinue or remake there products safer.  The water and chemicals in these products contain ingredients that can expose you to many skin aliments like eczema, Respiratory Conditions (nose, throat, lungs, sinuses): Asthma, bronchitis, Hair Dry, brittle Skin Dry, flaking, dandruff, itching, rashes (especially with infants and children) Eye irritations all with drinking, absorbing and inhaling.

Good news is you can limit what you use in the tub and start looking for more natural products remember to read the ingredients and never take a label as claiming natural, remember also that petro is considered to be natural but its not good for us, and some product may contain only this "natural" ingredient and can be labeled as natural.. Alright there are filters you can buy for you bath and shower here is a site you should checkout!! Natural food stores will also carry water filters for you bathroom.  This one here uses crystal quartz to help eliminate the chlorine, I havent had to buy one yet but I will if I travel or move.
Free Drinking Water.com

My Kitchen, So many Changes

Organic was foreign to me.  But it was a gradual step in the right direction.  Once I got familar with ingredients I knew something had to be done, too many fillers, chemicals, pestisides, preservatives to count.  Virtually everything I buy at the grocery store is organic, the only problem I find is that there isnt alot of organics and sometimes I find myself going to 3 different shops for items.  If you can't afford everything organic my list of firsts would be,

• fruit and veggies, berries, apples, grapes, just think anything bugs wouldnt bother with like oranges, bananas, lemon, are not as laden with pestisides, veggies such as peppers especially green are high in pestisides, potatoes. 
• Then meat, an alternative to organic meat, is to find a local farmer who lets the animals graze, walk around and separates the sick animals from the healthy, tagging them and not using them for food,  I had a great local farmer I was buying from for meat he had everything you could imagine and he was kind enough to explain these things to me as I asked about organics, he has a real care for his animals and what he does, he doesnt see it as just a manufacturing plant.  He was even willing to let us come visit and the kids could spend sometime looking at the baby animals that had been born.  Its good if you can actually see where the meat is coming from, alot of the meat that is brought into the grocery store, I know for a fact all of you reading wouldnt ever eat it if you seen what it looks like before they kill it, Why because they are sick, over fed with fattening foods, hormone ejected, and they look sick, some of them even have illnesses.  Its because these animals are a product and they are not cared for. You would be amazed at how full you feel after eating organic meat. When we made the switch we cut our meat buying by half, we didnt need to cook as much as non organic meat.  With any organics your fuller faster and longer and the amount of nutrience in the food is overwhelming. 
• Next is dairy for all the previously list reasons.
• Get rid of all the plastics yes this means tupperware, everything should be glass, I have these great glass holding dishes they do come with plastic lids but im ok with that because the food doesnt touch the top, and I can warm up left overs in it tops removed!  These are great they retail for only $24.99 and you get a couple sizes in the box I believe they are made by Anchor. 
• No more microwaves, I honestly have to say this one I procrastinated about, I was so worried I just couldnt live without it.  Turns out it was so easy, and I enjoy not having it, food tastes so much better, if I need to warm something up I put the dish in the oven turn broil to high and cook it for 6-10 mins I just set my stove timer and forget about it or empty the dishwasher and its done!! If you do use microwaves make sure no plastics or those cardboard microwave dinners go in even though it says its microwaveable it should be illegal, poison poison poison.. Even the dinners that you transfer from the freezer to the oven just place them in a glass dish and bake.
• Another thing that makes me cringe is dishwasher soap, Im so against mainstream detergents, for a few reasons, the most obvious being the smell coming out of the steam in the dishwasher, powerful bleaching smell, this isn't good for anyone, the chemicals are terrible I cant believe we clean DISHES with this stuff, and jet dry! I mean really if you want to use a rinse aid please use Vinegar for the rinse cycle.  As far as detergents there are homemade ones, but Seventh Generation makes good products but I have recently switched to Natures Choice, you can find it at Save-On, very "clean" free of chemicals, and there is no smells from my dishwasher.  A good tip is to add your favorite essential oil in with the soap, just a couple drops and it infuses the steam with a lovely smell for your kitchen, if someone is sick you can add Rosemary oil or cinnamon to the dishwasher these have anti viral properties.
• Utensils, should all be natural made, or stainless steel, no plastic.
• All non stick teflon pans, griddles, replace with cast iron.
• Dont use any chemical cleaning products, Vinegar, baking soda and essential oils do just as well as commercial cleaner, I dont understand how we clean our counter tops with this poison then place on food on it.  Vinegar is considered to be a natural Bleach and kills up to 99% of Germs, and mixed with the right essential oils is very potent.
• No plastic wrap or aluminum foil, I use wax paper or parchment, with elastics

I Cringe at the Sight of a Traditional Baby Bottle PART 1

Well this would be the start of my journey of living chemical free. Before this I lived like most others, thinking I was privledged to have all these products at my finger tips and how far we had come as a society, to make such wonder things.  Little did I realize how virtually everything in one way or another was slowly making me sick or result in a early death.  I always thought the government or FDA, or a group of some sorts, would be monitoring every single ingredient and product for my health and safety.  Was I naive, absolutly!  The truth is no one is looking out for us except for you, this was very disheartening to me.  The fact is that thousands of new chemicals are being made each year and virtually none are being tested before being release in products.. This is scary to me.
Shortly after my first child was born, BPA started to get alot of news recongnition for its affects on adults and babys.  Little did I know the formula I was using was a liquid concentrate from a can that had some of the highest rates of BPA in it, as was rated.  The powdered formula has a lower level of BPA.  There was a chart labeling all the brands of formula with a rating of BPA, and of course I cannot find it, if someone does can you please post it for others to refer to..  On top of that I was using the plastic baby bottles and also the baby bottles with the liners, I quickly changed to Dr. Browns BPA Free Glass Bottles, you can buy them at Toys "R" Us.  I Know you can get plastic BPA free bottles but I just feel more confortable knowing glass is glass, I have no idea whatelse is in the plastic!

Teflon Posioning

Teflon Poisoning a Must Read!
Canaries in the Kitchen

According to tests commissioned by the Environmental Working Group,  when Teflon is heated up usually 2-5 mins it starts to release chemicals, you could be inhaling 11 toxic gasses, including a chemical warfare agent, all while preparing dinner!  If you were to have your pet bird in the kitchen while cooking, chances are it would drop dead from the fumes within ten minutes of exposure.
What I think is Teflon should be banned, Dupont was sued for the use of Teflon for 20 years in there products and not reporting to the customers their knowledge of it making people sick, hiding it from us!  I highly recommend everyone use cast-iron to cook with, yes thats right!  Your Grandmas cookware, cast iron will out live you, you will never need to replace it.  This is what I use, its easy to clean, no soap, just a good brissel brush, let it cool a little after cooking and while its still warm brush it off, oil it, I store mine in the oven, it makes food taste great!! You also get some added iron to your diet, the only downside is you have to cook them really low this takes a while to get use to it holds its heat well.  I would recommend LODGE they have some really fancy cast iron.  Second on my list would be Ceramic, Enamel cookware, but beware of what they use to glaze do your research on it, some may contain cadmium, or lead.  Lodge makes everything you can imagne, Im competely happy with them!