Celiac Awareness Month

http://flic.kr/p/4qpoLM

The month of May has been designated as National Celiac Awareness month.  According to Beth Hillson, President of the American Celiac Disease Alliance, the majority of Celiac research centers and organizations in the United States support and recognize this observance.  The month of May was chosen in the United States to coincide with The Association of Coeliac Societies which represents 26 European countries which has also designated May as a month to raise awareness about Celiac disease.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition that is triggered in response to ingesting gluten.  It is the protein found in gluten that triggers an immune response and a multitude of health problems can ensue. Gluten is found in wheat, barley, rye, and sometimes oats.  Wheat flour, starch and other forms of derived gluten are commonly used in commercially prepared products. Even ingesting very small amounts of gluten can have very serious implications for someone suffering from Celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Celiac disease is usually characterized by damage to the small intestine that progresses over time.  The resulting damage can cause malabsorption issues and gut permeability which can lead to further health implications that can cause a wide range of manifestations and complications that can vary greatly from one person to the next. Celiac Disease can be triggered at any point in a person’s life but there is a genetic predisposition to the disease that is evident and relevant to a person developing the disease. 

Gluten Intolerance is intrinsically associated with Celiac disease, however, there are many people that suffer from gluten intolerance and related diseases and may not be suffering from Celiac disease.  The symptoms of gluten intolerance and Celiac disease can be very similar and both conditions can be treated by adhering to a gluten free diet.

Diagnosing Celiac disease and gluten intolerance can sometimes be difficult.  The tests that are currently used for diagnosis have proven not to be 100% conclusive and there is a high rate of false negatives reported in test result findings.  The good news is removing gluten from the diet can have a positive result in restoring digestive function and reversing related health problems.

Recognizing Celiac disease and gluten intolerance is becoming more prevalent thanks to numerous research groups and Celiac disease and gluten intolerance support groups.  The Gluten Intolerance Group of North America is a non profit organization whose mission is to support not only those suffering with Celiac disease but also provide support to those who suffer from other gluten intolerance and related diseases as well.

Through educational programs, events and alliances with research institutions, support organizations and industry representatives, GIG has become a leader in the Gluten Intolerance Community.    By providing support nationally and locally through its growing number of branches across the United States, GIG offers a wealth of tools and information for living a healthy, gluten-free lifestyle.  For more information visit the Gluten Intolerance Group website:  www.Gluten.net.

Living in Harmony with the Spring Season

http://flic.kr/p/9uoYa6

Living in harmony with the seasons and cycles of nature brings us closer to living a healthy, balanced life.  As the season’s change we instinctively begin to change our behavior and modify our lifestyle to harmonize with the season.  When we don’t make those subtle shifts in behavior modification we often find ourselves suffering from a state of imbalance which may come in the form of illness or mental unrest.

Spring is a time to cleanse, revive and rejuvenate and play!  Moving away from heavy comfort foods and moving toward lighter more cleansing foods is appropriate in spring.   As the days grow longer and the temperatures grow warmer, our routines naturally begin to change.  We jump on the opportunity to get outside, soak up the sun and move our bodies.  From a mental perspective, our creative energies seem to take flight as we begin to envision ideas and initiate actions on a path towards an end.   When we make an effort to live in sync with the seasons life seems smoother and flows easier.

Becoming conscious of making seasonal food choices will help your body to more easily adapt to the changing season by providing proper nourishment for strength and support.  By choosing fresh produce in season we receive the benefits of peak freshness, taste and nutrition. The nutritional components of seasonal eating are also beneficial to our seasonal nutritional requirements. Celebrate with the fresh flavors of spring.  Experiment with new ways to incorporate the fresh bounty of spring into your cooking repertoire. 

http://flic.kr/p/e3ofR



Seasonal Produce /Spring Early Summer

Artichoke

Asparagus

Baby Lettuce

Broccoli

Cauliflower

Cucumbers

Garlic

Fava Beans

Fennel

Fiddlehead Ferns

Fingerling Potatoes

Herbs

Leeks

Onions

Morel Mushrooms

Onions

Peas

Radishes

Ramp

Salad Greens

Scallions

Shallots

String Beans

Swiss Chard

Watercress

Apples

Apricots

Strawberries

Cherries

Rhubarb

Love of the Garden

http://flic.kr/p/8UmYck

The irresistible urge to get out in the garden comes naturally in the Spring.  Once you’ve been bitten by the gardening bug it seems to stay with you forever.  It becomes an integral part of life.  Gardening is good for the body, mind and soul.  It creates the opportunity to get grounded and connect to nature.  It can be a meditative practice, a creative art and a practical discipline.  A garden can become a sanctuary and a personal bit of paradise.

http://flic.kr/p/4RMJV7

Exploring nature and falling in love with it at a young age creates a childlike sense of awe and amazement that’s timeless.  Nature does a magnificent job creating an abundance of plants and wild flowers that can thoroughly keep the interest of any nature enthusiast.  But having backdoor access to nature’s gifts can be found when we create our own gardens.

http://flic.kr/p/9BmGQt

 Planting flowers, shrubs and trees can add so much to a landscape. For many of us, our backyards and gardens have become an extension of our living space.  Beyond the aesthetics of a beautiful garden, the importance of an edible garden has found its way back into our hearts and on to our tables. We’ve discovered the pitfalls of convenience food and the impracticality of not obtaining food locally and seasonally. 

http://flic.kr/p/8Za1px

Whether it is big or small, a garden can be nourishing, healing or simply uplifting and beautiful.  Finding the time and space to start a garden is probably the greatest challenge but where there’s a will there’s a way.  Container gardening and rooftop gardening has become a popular alternative to traditional gardening.  Even just bringing some herbs onto the kitchen windowsill can stimulate the senses and inspire the many uses, both culinary and medicinal that herbs provide for us.  Take a moment to slow down and cultivate healthy, positive changes in your life today.  Happy Gardening!

http://flic.kr/p/8B3ZiX

Honoring the Earth

http://flic.kr/p/7yNeMc

The first Earth day was observed in 1970 in response to escalating concerns of an environmental crisis.  Forty one years later we are still faced with similar concerns.  We have made great strides, however, and it is becoming increasingly easier to go green.  Environmental concerns and supporting efforts to go green has become a part of the mindset of mainstream thinking.

There are so many organizations that are supporting environmental efforts and providing information, awareness and an opportunity to be involved in a community effort toward positive change. Aligning ourselves with some of these organizations is a great way to, become a part of making a difference in the world today. 

Getting back to basics, living consciously and making an effort to tread lightly and move forward in the right direction can make a big difference in the grand scheme of things.  Becoming aware of our sources of food, water, and the products that we use can make a big difference in the choices we make.  

 Celebrating Earth day is a good opportunity to collectively reconnect with Mother Earth and renew our personal commitment for positive change. Finding gratitude in nature will nurture reverence and respect for her gifts.  Taking a moment of reflection is a simple way to celebrate the Earth. Together, our small efforts can make a big difference as we learn to live in balance with nature.

http://flic.kr/p/7PMsCV

The Envirolink Network is a non profit grassroots online community that unites hundreds of  organizations and volunteers around the world.  Envirolink maintains a database of thousands of online environmental resources as well as providing up to date news and information without taking a position on any specific environmental issues.

http://www.envirolink.org/

 

http://flic.kr/p/6xFvFB

The following link is a video entitled Planet Earth which is an inspirational reminder of the awe inspiring beauty that we all share.  http://thesecret.tv/planet-earth/





Clearing the Clutter

http://flic.kr/p/9qdwKN

The spring season is a time for new beginnings.  It’s a time not only for cleaning and starting fresh but also for re-organizing, de-cluttering and letting go of things that no longer serve a worthy purpose in our lives.  It’s a great time to make room in our lives for new possibilities. Our home is very much a reflection of our life.  If your home lacks a sense of balance and organization it is very likely that other aspects of your life will reflect a lack of balance and organization as well.

Clearing our homes of clutter is one of the best things we can do to create a harmonious environment. The state of our surroundings will have an impact on the energy we feel in our home. Clutter can cause stagnation and can have a negative impact on our lives. Home is where the heart is. It should be our personal sanctuary; a place of rest, rejuvenation, recreation, peace and joy.  Clearing your home of clutter and adding natural elements into your home design will help establish and reinforce a strong connection with nature and will be conducive to finding clarity, peace, harmony and abundance in your life. 

http://flic.kr/p/7TRHnj

Improving Indoor Air Quality

At the first hint of spring we naturally develop a yearning to reconnect with nature.  Bringing nature indoors is a good way to bring the spirit of spring indoors and bridge the gap between our internal and external worlds.  Bringing plants into our homes is like inviting a breathe of fresh air in.  Not only does it enliven our spirit with the beautiful scent and freshness of the greenery, it’s also been proven that common houseplants actually purify the air. Sick Building Syndrome is a term that has been developed to describe the affects that modern building materials have on indoor air quality.  It has been found that off- gassing from building materials begins to build up in the indoor environment causing indoor air pollution which has shown to have potentially dangerous effects on human health. 

http://www.flickr.com/photos/chiotsrun/

A two year study conducted by NASA and the Associated Landcape Contractors of America found that a number of houseplants have the ability to absorb potentially harmful toxins from the air and help improve the quality of indoor air.  This research has been carried out for many years by NASA scientist, Dr. Bill Wolverton.  The study demonstrated that a select variety of ornamental houseplants were effective in removing pollutants from the air.  The study consisted of plants placed in air tight chambers that were injected with common indoor air pollutants.  "Plants take substances out of the air through the tiny openings in their leaves", Wolverton said. "But research in our laboratories has determined that plant leaves, roots and soil bacteria are all important in removing trace levels of toxic vapor”.

The Study Involved the Following Chemicals and Plants

Formaldehyde    
Foam Insulation
Plywood or Particle Board
Carpeting
Furniture
Paper ProductsCleaners

Formaldehyde Abatement

Corn Plant-Dracenamassangeanna

Spider Plant-Chlorophytumcomosum

Bamboo Plant-Chameadora siefrizii

Golden Pathos-Scindapus aures

Potted Mum-Chrysantemum

Trichloroethylene
Dry Cleaning
Inks & Dyes
Adhesives
Varnishes
Lacquers & Paints

Trichloroethylene Abatement

Dragon Tree- Dracaena Marginata

Ribbon Plant- Dracaena Warnecki

Potted Mum- Chysanthemum

Peace Lily-Spathiphyllum

Gerbera Daisy

Benzene
Tobacco Smoke
Petroleum Products
Synthetic Fibers
Plastics
Inks & Dyes
Rubber Products
Detergents

Benzene Abatement

Dragon Tree-Dracaena Marginata

Dracena Janet Craig

Ribbon Plant-Dracena Warnecki

Potted Mum-Chrysanthemum

Gerbera Daisy

English Ivy- Hedera helix species

Peace Lily -Spathiphyllum

Other plants demonstrated to be effective air purifiers include the Bamboo palm, Peace lily, Ficus, Dracaena massangeana cane, Mother-in-Law's tongue (Sanseveria), English Ivy and Chinese evergreen species.

Sources:

 http://www.wolvertonenvironmental.com

 http://www.colormegreenco.com/NASA/nasa.htm

The Environmental Protection Agency’s website provides a great deal of information on the potentially harmful health effects from poor indoor air quality as well as providing resources for our understanding and protection:  http://www.epa.gov/iaq/index.html.

The World Health Organization has a free downloadable guide that reviews these harmful chemicals and helps us to better understand the health risks associated with these environmental exposures.  http://www.euro.who.int/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/128169/e94535.pdf.

Green Cleaning

Spring is finally here!  One of the first things that comes to mind when we think about spring is clean.  Spring-cleaning has become a seasonal ritual but keeping a clean house should not be hazardous to your health.  Most commercially manufactured cleaning products contain dangerous ingredients that may put your health at risk. The government does not require testing or health studies for chemicals found in chemical cleaners.  There are more than 80,000 chemicals used in consumer products and in manufacturing in the United States.  Many of these chemicals have not been tested for their effects on human health and the environment. Ingredients in many household products are considered trade secrets and are not revealed in labeling.  To find out what ingredients are in commonly used household products and the health risks associated with them you can go to the following website: The Household Products Database of the National Library of Medicine-United States Department of Health & Human Services http://householdproducts.nlm.nih.gov. 

Experiencing nausea, dizziness and headache from you’re your cleaning products just isn’t right.  Along with the long-term health concerns regarding the use of commercial household products, we also need to be aware of the environmental impact of the manufacturing and disposal process. Green cleaning practices is a great place to begin minimizing our environmental impact as well as creating a healthier home environment.  Making your own natural cleaning products is easy and economical. It doesn’t need to complicated  and you can get started with just a few simple ingredients.

Basic Ingredients for Natural Household Cleaners

Distilled White Vinegar

Baking Soda

Liquid Castile Soap

Lemon

Borax

Washing Soda

Club Soda

Salt

Cleaning Applications

Vinegar:  Cuts grease, removes odor, soap scum, hard water deposits.  Use as all-purpose cleaner.

 Baking Soda:  Cleans, deodorizes, softens water.  Mild abrasive action good for scouring.

Soap:  Attracts dirt so that it may be rinsed away.  Use as all purpose cleaner.

Lemon:  Acidic, effective against bacteria.  Can be used in all cleaning applications.

Borax: (sodium borate) cleans, deodorizes, disinfects, softens water, removes stains.  Good all-purpose cleaner as well as laundry and dish detergent.

Washing Soda:(sodium carbonate decahydrate) stonger than Borax used to clean, deodorize, disinfect, cuts grease, removes stains.

Wearing gloves is recommended.  Stronger all purpose cleaning agent for tougher jobs.

Club Soda-Carbonated water: removes stains from fabrics, works well cleaning windows and stainless steel.

Salt: (sodium chloride)  

http://flic.kr/p/7EkefY

Making natural cleaning products from scratch isn’t difficult.  Having the above ingredients on hand will make cleaning a snap.  Vinegar and water is a great all purpose cleaner.  You can use your own unique blend of ingredients to create cleaning products for specific tasks.  By adding a few drops of essential oils to your blend of cleaning agents will provide a fresh scent as well as adding additional cleaning power.  Essential Oils recommended for cleaning include: lavender, citrus, thyme, grapefruit seed extract, eucalyptus and tea tree oil. The following website: RN Central ,has a compilation of 30 green cleaning recipes with handy tips to address all of your cleaning needs: http://www.rncentral.com/nursing-library/careplans/30-Easy-Recipes-for-Greener-Cleaning.  Happy Cleaning!