Mono and Diglycerides

Ever wonder what are mono and diglycerides?  Being a lover of words and all things natural, I often delve into ingredient lists with a passion.  Over the years, I have evolved to refuse any products that contain hydrogenated oils, high fructose corn syrup and soy isolate protein.  Recently, since my bread maker took a dive off my kitchen counter, I started purchasing store bread again.  At times, I find the convenience of the local supermarket over the health food store too much to resist.  As long as the previous mentioned ingredients were not in the mix, I would purchase the bread.  As they say, ignorance is bliss and I did not investigate the mono and diglyceride ingredient until now.

What I found is that the mono and diglycerides are added to the ingredient list to make the dough, ice cream or candy easier to manipulate or regulate (as in shelf life).  Basically, these ingredients are added for the benefit of the manufacturer, not the consumer's taste.  For the most part, mono and diglycerides are produced from soya beans, many of which are genetically modified, according to GMO Compass.  Making matters worse, this product is basically the same as an hydrogenated oil.  Eric Armstrong has researched the product extensively and is working toward educating the public and making changes in the labeling of products in the UK.  Replacing mono and diglycerides with the well-known trans fats, such as hydrogenated oils, is a loop hole that must be closed promptly.  Manufacturers of convenient food products rely on the consumers being ignorant and uneducated.  Consumers need to understand and know ingredients in order to make educated and informed choices.

For those who are not aware, the World Health Organization (WHO) advised that these oils be banned.  Editor of Natural News states that ingestion of hydrogenated oils leads to cardiovascular disease, cancer and birth defects.  The obesity epidemic is also linked to these poisonous oils as well, and studies in mice indicate that trans fats lead to cholesterol issues and ultimately atherosclerosis.  Bottom line, avoid hydrogenated oils, mono and diglercerides, interesterified oils and partially hydrogenated oils.

Here's to your continued health and awareness!
ClearSkies

Feeling a little Green after your Celebrations??

For those who chose to imbibe in St. Patty's Day festivities last night and are feeling a bit green, but not in a beneficial manner, you may need something to help you along today.  For all that know me, you know I advocate the intake of dark chocolate on a daily basis for a proactive approach to any potential ailments.  My dark cocoa advice applies to those who indulge in too much of the drinking of spirits.  Drink a bit of chocolate milk before bed or first thing upon waking to assist your body with symptoms associated with a hangover.  My favorite concoction consists of simmered Vanilla Almond Milk with 70 or 85% Green and Black's Dark Chocolate and a tablespoon of raw cocoa powder.  This homemade beverage is delicious, nutritious and soothing.

If you are looking for some other quick fixes to that not so great day after feeling, try an old fashioned folk remedy of cutting a lemon in half and rubbing each half under each one of your armpits.  This process aids your body in ridding toxins.  I recommend recycling the lemons by putting them down the garbage disposal for a fresh lemony smell, instead of squeezing them in your water!  Another folk remedy is drinking filtered water with a couple of teaspoons of lime juice and a little sugar.  Overall, hangovers are caused by too many toxins, not enough sleep and dehydration.  So, drink water, detox and rest this weekend!

Here's to a healthy, happy weekend!
ClearSkies

Staying Fit is Green!

While everyone is out celebrating St. Patty's Day at their local pub or eating their favorite Irish treat of corned beef, I will be at Boot Camp with Aris.  Keeping fit and healthy is good for everyone and the environment. Getting in touch with the earthy green grass at Straub Park while running cones, doing push-ups, working abs and toning buns is an exhilarating experience.  Thanks to Aris, a group of us have fun every Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 7:30 PM, getting tone and fit for the bikini season!  Aris is an awesome personal trainer and instructor, with a flair for motivating those who wish to improve their life.  She has picked a beautiful spot to train out in the open grass of Straub Park with the bay in view.  The fresh air, energy movement and the company of motivated individuals makes for a wonderful end to any day. 

Here's to a Happy St. Patty's Day!!
ClearSkies

Being Green on a Green Day!

As we all know, being green can be fun, especially when we are celebrating St. Patty's Day.  Ever wonder what is in that green beer that is served on this festive day full of shamrocks and leprechauns?  Personally, I think of the artificial colors and refuse even a sip.  An alternative exists for those who are green the other days of the year, and that alternative is wheat grass or spirulina.  Just a bit added to your favorite malt beverage and you will be kissing the Blarney Stone in style and surely receive your dose of witty banter for the whole night.  Of course, this could be altered by having a few too many of the naturally green infused beverages, so drink responsibly and receive a jolt of 'B' Vitamins.

If you choose to imbibe at home, this natural green beverage would be easy to create.  If out on town in your favorite Irish pub, ask for your favorite beer on tap and add your own bit of green.  Spirulina and Wheat Grass powders can be found at your local health food store.

Here's to Your Continued Health!
ClearSkies