Showing posts with label Antioxidents. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Antioxidents. Show all posts

10 Simple Cancer Remedies That Can Give You A Fighting Chance

Simple cancer remedies that can give you a fighting chance
By: Dr. Veronique Desaulniers

Though cancer can be seen as a very complex illness, it is important to understand that cancer is simply 
the "symptom" and the tip of the ice berg. For your body to allow cancer cells to take root and multiply, there had to be a weakened immune system, toxicity of many kinds and nutritional deficiencies.

Cheat Sheet for Vitamins

I'm a little obsessed with infographics and when I found this one by www.SelfMender.com, I knew I wanted to post it on my blog.


Basics of Herbs

I found this herb illustration from Illustrated Bites that I thought was incredibly useful.


My 10 Day Juice Fast


About a week ago, I watched the documentary Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead after my sister recommended it. She started juicing and lost 8 lbs in 10 days.

Since I've been in a rut and this documentary was incredibly inspiring, I decided I would do the same. My husband researched juicers we finally decided on the masticating juicer: Omega 8006. We ordered it....and waited anxiously.

A note about juicing: many people prefer not to do juicing because of the mess and cleanup needed as well as how much money it costs in items in order to juice enough. Another main complaint is that you lose all the fiber in the fruits.

The Benefits

After juicing for 10 days, I've never loved and believed in it so much. The benefits of juicing are:
  • Can reduce risk of cancer
  • Serves as a great cleanse
  • Boosts the immune system
  • Losing weight (in a healthy way)
  • Removes toxins from the body
  • Aids in digestion through the natural enzymes
  • Helps the body receive pure nutrients and minerals in an active state
  • Helps you eat more fruits and vegetables that you probably would eat or could in a given serving

New Products, New Hostess rewards, New Specials...for a NEW YEAR!!!

Ava Anderson Non-Toxic just came out with new products to start off the new year! Check out these great new products!

Ava BODYsoap bar

Ava BODYbutter

Ava BODY Lemon Body Sugar Scrub
 In the month of January, hostesses qualify for DOUBLE HOSTESS REWARDS! That means extra free products and discounts! For more information click here!

Same ol' New Years Resolution

Happy New Years Readers!!!

When the majority of American's create their New Year's Resolutions, 99% (my own made up stat...lol) have some sort of weight loss goal. In addition, this stat is true: 80% of resolutions are renounced by February.

Here's a way to really try to hit those weight loss goals and KEEP it off! First, make a healthy diet change, for life. Don't go ON A DIET. It never works, because when you lose the weight and "get off the diet" you gain it all back plus some extra lovin'.

Here's a list of 8 ways to make the change for a healthier you:

1. Eat more greens! I don't care if you buy Green Vibrance (which is amazing) and take a scoop of it a day in a shake or if you eat raw greens...just do =)

2. Take time to eat breakfast. I hear the complaint all the time about not having time or not wanting to because all they need is coffee. Uhhh...wrong! The word comes from breaking the fast from your previous meal usually about 15 hours before. You need to get your metabolism jumpstarted or it will lag the rest of the day leaving you without energy and fuel.

3. Get more fiber. Women need 25-30 grams per day and Men need 30-35 grams per day of fiber. Most Americans get about 10 grams. It's no wonder most of Americans are constipated and unable to detoxify properly. Flax seed, rice bran, fruits, vegetables and beans are a great way to boost up your fiber intake. Start reading those labels people! =)

4. Go wild with berries: blueberries, cranberries, strawberries, raspberries, cherries...they provide a powerhouse of antioxidents. I usually buy frozen berries and add a scoop of my green's powder for an awesome smoothie jam packed with nutrition.

5. Cut out hydrogenated trans fats. Read labels and make sure none of it has anything "hydrogenated oil" or "partially hydrogenated oil". This oil is what raises the bad cholesterol, clogs arteries and gives you the lovely fat around your body.

6. Avoid artificial flavors. From vitamins all the way to candy, these sneaky colors make it onto 80% of children's food and about 75% of our grocery store. This is what gives coloring to the food. As if it matters what color it is. There are natural ways to color things (aside from leaving it the color it was intended to be) through beet juice, carrots...etc. Stay away from "Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5...etc)

7. Stay away from White Sugar or High Fructose Corn Syrup. Or any corn syrup for that matter. To really shed those pounds, stay away from refined and highly processed sugars. These raise insulin levels, and can lead to a myriad of diseases starting with obesity.

8. Drink more green tea. It's full of antioxidents and can help with weight loss and cancer prevention. It has so many benefits, it's no wonder its been an ancient tradition in Asia.

Hope this gets you off to a good start! Happy New Year!

"B" Vitamin Breakdown

Garden of Life B Complex
Many people know about taking a "B Complex" but don't really know what B vitamins are good for. Here's a quick rundown of some of the overall benefits of the B vitamins:

  • B1 (Thiamine) - Used for neural function (brain), liver protection, nerve health, vascular health and kidney health in diabetics. 
  • B2 (Riboflavin) - Boosts folic acid's (B9) colorectal cancer protective effect (hence why B complex is necessary...they all work together synergistically), increases iron absorption and regulates red blood cell growth, memory, depression, healthy hair, nails, skin and vision. It also has some antioxidant capacity and is sometimes used as a natural yellow colorant in foods and cosmetics. 
  • B3 (Niacin) - Increases HDL (good) cholesterol and lowers LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides, and is critically important for cardiovascular health. It aids in brain repair after a stroke. Niacinamide is known for treating fungal infections, fetal alcohol syndrome and may have a role in easing discomfort for multiple sclerosis by preventing NAD depletion. 
  • B5 (Pantothenic Acid) - Known to be involved as a coenzyme A precursor, it is also vital for metabolism and energy production in the body. Derivatives panthenol and pantethine are important for skin and hair health as well as helping to optimize a person's lipid profile (sound familiar? Pantene Pro-V tries to mimic this vitamin for their shampoos and conditioner). 
  • B6 (Pyridoxine) - In combination with folic acid and B12, it helps reduce homocysteine in the blood, which as implications for heart and brain health. Can also protect against colorectal and lung cancer, especially for smokers. B6 helps optimize nervous system health and can treat neuropathy and carpal tunnel syndrome. 
  • B7 (Biotin) - This vitamin is necessary for cell growth, the production of fatty acids, and the metabolism of fats and amino acids. not only assists in various metabolic reactions but also helps to transfer carbon dioxide. Biotin may also be helpful in maintaining a steady blood sugar level. This is the most popular vitamin for strengthening hair and nails and helping with skin. (I take this =p)
  • B9 (Folic Acid or Folate) - This is critical in reducing homocysteine in the blood (in combo with B6 and B12), a major risk in heart disease and stroke. It prevents neural tube birth defects in developing infants in utero, which is why it's recommended all women whether pregnant or in their child-bearing years take this important B vitamin. Usually 800mcg is the recommended dosage (also found in prenatals). It has been shown to improve vascular function and blood pressure in young women. 
  • B12 (Cynocobalamin or Methylcobalamin) - Useful in homocysteine reduction through its ability to convert folic acid to it's more active form (methylcobalamin) known to treat anemia in the elderly. It helps metabolize fats and carbs and is especially important in optimizing nerve health. Vegetarians have special needs to supplement B12 because their diets are naturally deficient in this critical nutrient. Most importantly, B12 is known best as the energy vitamin. It helps energize the cells and gives individuals that boost they need during the day. On a side note: methylcobalamin is the form I recommend because it is the active form and more readily available and ready to absorb.

I'm really biased with which vitamins I use because I only want the best. The two companies that truly do organic fruits, vegetables and herbs in all of their formulas are Garden of Life and New Chapter (the two images shown above). Each vitamin comes from the mentioned sources. They do not isolate the vitamins and they are definitely not synthetic (which is what you find in most vitamins). The other company worth mentioning cannot be found in stores, it is JuicePlus+ (shown below). They have all fruits and vegetables in their products.

Natural Support for Diabetes

Diabetes is becoming increasingly common, especially among young children. In fact, a recent headline just read "366 Million People Now Have Diabetes". Our American diets don't help! With fast food at every corner, quick meals that contain little nourishment and high starch and sugar content, it's no wonder.

Everyday, more and more people are switching to natural products to support their overall health and current treatment regimen.

These are a few key things that diabetics can do to add a natural treatment:
  1. Diet for Diabetes. A healthy diet can help prevent and control diabetes. Choose a diet rich in lean protein, fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and fiber. Reduce or remove consumption if refined grains and sugar, which make blood sugar control more difficult. I know this is difficult, especially during the holidays, but keep your well being in mind.
  2. Exercise is Essential. It helps improve circulation, helps control body weight and may even improve blood sugar control.
  3. Daily Multivitamin for Health. A good multi is important for everyone since even the healthiest eaters don't always get every nutrient necessary. (I always recommend New Chapter or Garden of Life multi's since they are made with organic whole foods and herbs and don't contain sugar). In the case of diabetes, there are increased needs for nutrients because there may be impaired metabolism, loss of nutrients through frequent urination, and loss of nutrients due to medication.
  4. Supplemental Support. Any of these recommendations must be discussed with your health care practitioner if you have diabetes. Blood sugar may also be monitored while on natural treatments. Here are some of the best supplements for diabetes:
    • Chromium is an essential trace mineral that helps improve function of insulin. Studies have shown that this helps stabilize blood sugar levels.
    • Cinnamon may help decrease levels of blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood fats (bonus: it can help you lose weight)
    • Alpha Lipoic Acid is a powerful antioxidant in the body that is protective to the nerve cells.
These are just three of several amazing herbs and antioxidants that help boost a healthy lifestyle and helping individuals with diabetes. It's important to get control of your blood sugar and control of your health =)

Winter Wellness

It's that time of season when people are getting sick (I just got over it myself) with fever, sore throat, flu, cough, allergies...etc.

Here are a few things that can help:

  • Vitamin C and Honey: a combo of vitamin C and 1 tsp of honey in the morning and evening can be especially valuable in the winter months.
  • Olive Leaf: has an ORAC value of over 4,000 (that's more than the praised Acai). This is an excellent destroyer of free radicals.
  • Collodial Silver: huge immune booster and also antiviral
  • Healthy Fats and Fiber: good fats, including omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil supplements, help reduce inflammation, helping the immune system focus on fighting the infection.
  • Vitamin D: this vitamin does a million things, but one it does well is switch on a gene that makes a natural antiviral and antibiotic substance in our bodies that help us speed recovery. Adults should take 2,000 IU daily.
  • Probiotics: this is "friendly" bacteria that helps prevent invading bugs from taking residence in the gut. Priobiotics boost the immune response. 5 billion units per daily serving is a good start.
  • Astragalus: this herb is used in Chinese medicine and is an adaptogen that strengthen's your body's resistance to disease. Look for standarized extracts.
  • Echinacea: mainly used to help treat colds and flu. Doctors recommend 50-150mg daily during illness.
  • Beta-Glucan: this is found in some grains, mushrooms, and yeasts and helps lower cholesterol. In addition, it helps protect against viral infection. Doctors recommend a range from 3-15 grams per day.
  • Homeopathy: when flu-like symptoms appear, try Boiron's Oscillococcinum. It really works and easily disolves under the tongue.
  • Elderberry: has shown that it speeds recovery from flu
  • Ginger: this is a powerhouse antioxident that has over 5,000 different attributes that are beneficial to the body. It's great as a tea!
    Other remedies: a few other ways to ward of unwanted invaders is garlic, spirulina and zinc.
Stay healthy! =)

When phthalates are exposed to children in womb...

This article continues to prove my point on the dangerous toxins in health and beauty products sold to millions in the U.S. Parents, please read this article and see what can happen when we "trust" these large corporations to make safe and healthy decisions for us on the ingredients and products we use daily:


This is why I use and continue to sell and promote Ava Anderson Non-Toxic beauty line. It's non-toxic ingredients are great for the skin and actually provide nourishment through antioxidents. You can get more information at www.SimplyJenelle.com.

Ask me! =)

October Specials!

Welcome Fall!!! With a great weather change, comes great rewards and discounts with Ava Non-Toxic! This month, if you purchase $75 of more in products, you'll earn a free Ava Exfoliator =)


5 Pounds of Toxins Each Year!

The average American woman absorbs five pounds of toxic chemicals each and every year from her makeup and personal care products. Every time you wash your hair, brush your teeth, rub on moisturizer, use a deodorant or spritz on a fragrance, you’re adding to your toxic load.

Did you think the FDA was protecting you? Not so much. However, there are some steps you can take to cut down or eliminate these sources of toxins.

First, though, you need to know what they are! Here’s a partial list:

1. Phthalates / DBP. Kids’ toys containing phthalates have been in the news in the past few years, but a lot of cosmetic products include them as well. Often in cosmetic or personal care products you’ll find the ingredient DBP, which stands for dibutyl phthalate. Phthalates cause cancer and interfere with your ability to reproduce.

2. Petroleum distillates are carcinogenic. Propylene glycol is derived from petroleum, is readily absorbed through the skin, and is so toxic that workers are required to wear protective gear when handling it. It’s used in industry to make things like hydraulic brake fluid and antifreeze. It’s found in very high concentrations in stick deodorants.

3. Parabens are synthetic chemical preservatives. They might show up as methyl paraben, propyl paraben, ethyl paraben, butyl paraben or PHB Esters.

4. Mercury and other toxic metals.

5. Formaldehyde. Even if formaldehyde is not listed on the ingredients label, it might be released by imidazolidinyl urea, DMDM Hydantoin or Hexamethylenetetramine.

6. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) destroy cell membranes. It’s derived from coconut, so it’s frequently labeled as a “natural” product. However, after being mixed with other chemical cocktails, it damages your immune system, causes eye damage, and collects in the heart, lungs, brain and liver.

7. Triethanolamine (TEA) is a synthetic chemical frequently contaminated with nitrosamines.

8. Coal tar derivatives are found in dyes and colors.

9. Triclosan is found in almost all toothpastes and hand sanitizers, and is readily absorbed through the soft tissues of the mouth and skin. It disrupts thyroid activity, drops testosterone levels and increases the risk of cancer.

The FDA has admitted it does not protect the public health from toxic chemicals found in cosmetic products.


You Do Have Options for Toxin-Free Products

The Environmental Working Group maintains an extensive database to help you eliminate the damaging chemicals from your personal care and cosmetic products.

It’s divided into logical sections including hair, skin, nails, makeup, etc. You can search for products you’re currently using and rates them as low, moderate or high hazards.

Most shampoos ingredients', while they may not all contain carcinogens, are linked to:

  • development and reproductive damage
  • allergies
  • immune system disruption
  • neurotoxicity
  • endocrine disruption
  • organ system toxicity (non-reproductive)
  • irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs)
  • contamination concerns
  • biochemical or cellular level (DNA) changes
Fortunately, the EWS also provides lists of products with zero toxicity, along with links for purchasing online. All ingredients and thier toxicity levels can be found on their website at http://www.cosmeticdatabase.com/. Their disclaimer reads:
“Environmental Working Group is not associated with the manufacturer or distributor of this product and cannot guarantee the safety or quality of the product, the product formulation nor the service of the store owner.”
My Non-Toxic Option

As a result of searching for the purest ingredients that are completely non-toxic, I found Ava Anderson Non-Toxic beauty line. I have been using the entire line and love every single product! I have felt the difference in my skin, my complexion, my hair and texture of skin. It's been nothing short of amazing!
I now represent this wonderful line and can't stop talking about the difference it has made on my skin! If you would like to try it for yourself and join or host a party contact me here! You can check out the entire line at http://avaandersonnontoxic.com/jenelle.

Summer Skin.


Summer's here and so is the beaming sun! Here's a quick rundown of how to protect you and your family's skin in the summer heat, both externally and internally, so you can enjoy the great weather!

Externally:
  1. Maintain hydrated skin. Keep your skin clean and hydrated by using a natural cleanser and moisturizer and avoid harsh chemicals (For more info, check out the blog post on skin care ingredients). 
  2. Use sunscreen/sunblock. I'm incredibly bias in this one. I highly recommend Badger's SPF line. They are amazing with NO synthetic chemicals or ingredients. Some people complain that it's too thick but get over it, b/c it's wonderful! =) Read the ingredients for yourself and see. The price may look steep but a little goes a long ways.
  3. Use natural insect repellent. PLEASE, don't apply chemicals to your skin, much less your child's skin. There are great lines that use only essential oils and natural ingredients. If you want to mix your own, dilute citronella and eucalyptus in oil (1 part essential oil to 10-20 parts oil)
Internally:
  1. Drink LOTS OF PURE WATER! You needs to stay hydrated during the summer to help nourish the skin cells and allow for those water-soluble vitamins (like your B-complex) work better.
  2. Eat plenty of antioxident-rich foods like fruits and veggies and unrefined whole grains. 
  3. Eat good fats like those found in nuts, avocado, flax, chia, cold-water fish and olive oil. These healthy fats support moisture balance in the skin.
  4. Avoid refined and fried foods, like refined white flour, french fries, pastries, donuts...and you know the rest.
  5. Exercise. It can help your skin! Exercise improves your blood flow and oxygenation throughout the body, including skin cells. 

Key Supplements:
  • Antioxidents:
    • Green Tea- delays skin cell aging, soothes and heals stressed skin, and balances skin tone
    • Vitamin C- builds collagen, reduces redness and strengthens capillaries (don't forget that sugar eats away Vitamin C right out of the body!)
    • Vitamin E and Selenium- can help protect against UV-induced oxidative stress from the sun
    • Carotenoids- such as lutein and lycopene wich fight cellular damage caused by UV sun rays, which can help slow the visible signs of aging (carrots contain these components and more)
  • Essential Fatty Acids
    •  Borage oil, Flax seed, Fish oil, Hemp and Chia seeds are all great sources of EFA's which help keep moisture in the skin and maintain hydration, making the skin feel softer
  •  Hyaluronic Acid - this is a compound vital to healthy skin. It keeps collagen hydrated and youthful allowing moisture retention in the skin.
 Recovering after long summer days outdoors:
  • Sunburn occurs from overexposure to the sun. Aloe vera gel is used topically to sooth, cool and speed healing. It's even better if you use actual aloe vera gel from the plant. In addition, cocoa butter and shea butter nourish the skin after a long day in the sun.
  • Poison Ivy, Oak or Sumac are common weather issues in many parts of the U.S. during long hot days outdoors. Use a spray or gel made with jewelweed, which helps naturally relieve itching. Homeopathic remedies can also work great with poison ivy symptoms. 
  • Insect Bites/Stings is one of the most common for me. I really think I have amazing tasting blood b/c I always get bit! My husband says I imagine them and they appear. Not really, but it sure seems that way. The best aid I've personally used is tea tree oil to relieve itching. It's wonderful! You can also use Aloe vera to soothe irritated skin.
Follow these little tips and you'll have fun in the sun without the pain later =)