Here's another way to get Omega 3's

My friend, Wanda, sent me this email message:

"Here’s another way to get EFA’s . . . eat grass fed animals instead of cows raised on potato chips and m&m’s. Here’s a short 3 minute video on grass vs. conventional beef raising done by the Wall Street Journal on line."

http://tinyurl.com/6gm7nc

I watched it, and I was surprised to hear that some farmers feed their cows potato chips and chocolate. That can't be good for the cow or the beef eaters.

Eat organic, grass fed beef and get your Essential Fatty Acids!

And, one of the reader's comments suggests to check out this short 3 minute You Tube Video about Omega 3's as well. Thank you, Susan!

Here's to your family's health!

ClearSkies

Essential Fatty Acids

I know that many of us have heard about the benefits of EFA's (Essential Fatty Acids) for brain health and many adult ailments in bones and joints. With school starting up, I thought we might talk about the benefits of fish oils to our children. Concentration and attention are key to a successful academic career, yet many children are physically incapable of sitting still and learning. Studies are now being done to show that many children are lacking the nutrition needed to ensure their health. Children that are diagnosed with behavioral problems, dyslexia, ADD and ADHD have been shown to have low levels of the Omega-3's, which are found in fish oils.

Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers would do well to make sure they are eating safe fish or taking supplements that contain these important EFA's. Young toddlers and children also need to have safe supplements of the Omega-3's in their diet. Fish oil supplements have actually reversed the effects of many behavioral problems in children. Taking fish oils daily, along with a healthy organic diet of fruits, vegetables and whole grains will guarantee your child a positive start in their educational development.

One brand of fish oils that I prefer is the Nordic Naturals brand because they offer a high quality fish oil free of contaminants. They also offer a wonderful children's chewable softgel that is strawberry flavored. My son asks for it frequently and loves it. The site gives links to research and studies to support the many benefits of taking fish oils. For more information on the research and the development of infants and children go to this link on Omega Research.

If you want to eat your fish instead of taking a supplement, you should know to avoid or limit your consumption of the following: fresh tuna, king mackerel, shark, swordfish, and snapper. They contain higher levels of mercury. The beneficial fish are: grouper, halibut, lobster, orange roughy, salmon and trout.

Here's to your children's health!
ClearSkies

sources: Healthy Fats for Life by Lorna R. Vandergaeghe, BSc and Karlene Karst, BSc, RD
and Nordic Naturals at http://www.nordicnaturals.com/index.php

Drunken Sailors

One way to get rid of those pesky bugs known as roaches and palmetto bugs is to drink them under the table. If you live in the south in the summer, you know that no matter how clean or careful you are, those critters can get into your home. A safe, non toxic way to purge them from your home is to get them drunk on beer. Yes, that's right, beer. Have them belly up to a saucer of beer and they will drink until they die. Just place a low saucer full of beer out and once they are drunk, toss them out. That's it! It is economical too, as long as you serve them the cheap stuff. I hear they don't tip too well, but that's ok because they don't come back once they are drunk.

Here's to a pest-free home!

ClearSkies

Take Your Breath Away

Every wonder if you are offending others when you speak? I'm not talking about putting your foot in your mouth, I am talking about halitosis. It may be acceptable for Fido to offend others with his panting aroma, but we expect more from our human friends. An easy and natural way to eliminate bad breath, is to make your own concoction with which to swish your mouth. The key is to use natural essential oils that kill the odor causing bacteria. Some of the oils that can be used for killing bacteria are cinnamon, clove, rosemary, tea tree and lavender.

Annie Berthhold-Bond suggests a couple of homemade recipies for a natural and refreshing wash for the mouth:

Grapefruit Seed Wash

1/2 cup of water

25 drops of grapefruit seed extract

15 to 20 drops of essential oils (peppermint, clove, cinnamon)

Combine the ingredients and swish in your mouth. Spit out. Do not swallow. Grapefruit seed extract is an antibacterial and will help eliminate the bad breath.

Another suggestion:

1 cup of water

10-20 drops of essential oil (cinnamon or clove)

Combine, swish and spit. Do not swallow.

Chewing on cardamom seeds, cinnamon sticks or clove buds will also take care of the offending odor. Remember that essential oils are strong, so use with caution. Keep away from eyes and sensitive areas. If possible, choose organic essential oils, its good for you and the environment.

Here's to your health and fresh breath!

ClearSkies

Source: Better Basics for the Home by Annie Berthold-Bond

photo source: www.pdphoto.org