Recommended Reading

Miso says "Wake up, it's reading time!" 

I haven't done a Recommended Reading post since May 0f 2022!

Life has been busy and my attention has been scattered.  Now back on the right track, let's get down to business.

Some good news...

Honesty prevails at a Swedish library when it was accidently left open.

Get your swing on at America's largest swing set. open now in Philadelphia.

The world can feel heavy...32 Reasons why everything will be okay

Coming 2024...one love, one message lives on..Bob Marley-One Love

Health

What to eat for a healthy gut...Gut Health Diet

Research has shown that a plant-based diet can help in controlling Parkinson 's Disease

Known as the 3 Sisters these 3 foods consumed in this Costa Rican Blue Zones help residents live to 100.

An Essential Oil Blend to open your sinuses.

The surprising link between hydration and aging.  and the Importance of hydration.

The new rapidly growing trend of Multigenerational Living

Matcha More powerful than regular green tea? YES, yes it is!

Recipes

Coconut Crusted Tofu served over your choice of grain, by The Narddog Cooks, this is not the Andy from "The Office", but his name is Andy Bernard! For relaxing and great vegan recipes check him out.

Change up your grain intake with a Inca Quinoa Salad.

Today we are having simple "Blackened Tofu Sandwiches"

Press and slice Tofu, melt vegan butter in a skillet over medium heat.  Coat the tofu with "blackened seasoning" cook until blackened on both sides. Serve on bread of your choice with tomatoes, spinach, avocado etc. Easy seasoning mix of: paprika, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt and black pepper.

Environment

How the Dutch went down the toilet looking for heat. Sewage waste is being seen as a reliable for millions of homes in the Netherlands.

The Worlds largest landfill is now a park in NYC.

If humans went extinct, what would Earth look like one year later?

6 Must-see Environmental Films and TV shows of 2023

Crazy Shit

If you had a choice to receive 1 million dollars in one month or a penny doubled every 30 days which would you choose? It Might Surprise You!

If it isn't the Otters who take over the world, A group of Orca's originating from one "Grandmother" are doing their best to get revenge.

This can only happen in Florida.

This isn't really crazy shit, but interesting. Are you a miracle?

That's all for now!

 

Be kind!

Judd

It's About Thyme!

 

It's About Thyme!

Thyme is a herb whose small leaves grow on clusters of thin stems.  Grown primarily as an aromatic culinary herb it forms a mound 6-12" and 6' wide.  Obviously low growing, it prefers dry, sandy and even rocky soils. It prefers full sun, good drainage and is even drought and frost-proof.  This makes it a very easy herb anyone can grow, even inside year -round!  Just remember to keep it trimmed back. Use cuttings of 5-6" for cooking, leaving 5' of growth for good health of the plant. This aromatic woodsy tasting herb is great on many types of fish, in  soups and veggies. 

What you might not have known about thyme is its medicinal uses!

At a time when antibiotics and drugs of synthetic origin weren't being used, thyme was actively being used by traditional healers to treat a variety of ailments- from coughing to nervous disorders!  The many benefits of using thyme are:

*Immunity booster: packed with vitamins and antioxidants, helping to prevent colds, flus and other illness.

*Cough and sore throat remedy: the essential oils help alleviate the cough and sore throats caused by bronchitis, colds and flu.

*Reduces inflammation and speeds healing: thyme has anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and antiseptic properties which is why it has been long used for cuts, scrapes and bruises.

3-Ingredient Immunity Tea

This is excellent for a cough or sore throat also!

Take 3 sprigs of fresh thyme in 1 cup boiled water and let steep for 10 minutes.

Strain into a cup, squeezing a half of a lemon and stir in 1 tablespoon of manuka honey or raw local honey.

Sip and enjoy!

Thank you for reading.

Have a great day.

Judd

Recommended Reading 05/30/22

It's Recommended Reading Time

Even if the world seems to be crashing down,

let's get started with some good news:

 32 Reason Everything Will Be Ok

                                                 37 Ways to Make a Difference in the World

Environment

Renewables Met All of California's Energy Needs for the First Time.

10 Best Environmental Documentaries To Watch according to David Attenborough.

How Sweden is Turning Waste to Energy

4 EU Countries Pledge 10 Fold Rise in Offshore Wind Capacity come on US, you can do the same.

Regenerative Farming Can Combat Climate Change

Health

10 Surprising Plant-Based Food Facts

How a Plant-based Diet Changes Cortisol Levels

The No Bullshit Guide to Plant-based Protein

How to Mimic Chicken Flavor in Vegan Dishes

Recipes

Peanut Butter Cookie Sandwich

This the best and easiest High Protein Wholefood Bowl:

Happy Pear

Have a great week.

Be kind

Judd

Be Kind

Be Kind

This post is a little different than most.  I hope it speaks to you and lifts you up.  If you're having a rough day, I hope you know that you are loved and you matter. 

 Our world is changing.  Oftentimes it seems as though friends, family and strangers are treating each other with less and less compassion and understanding.  If others don't share the same beliefs, they are wrong.  I heard a podcast recently with Guru Singh talking with Rich Roll.  He made a very enlightening statement:  The way of educating children needs some changes.  Instead of (or in addition to) the 3 R's, what should be taught is the 3 C's: Compassion, Collaboration and Communication.  This way children will learn how to deal with the real problems of our time.  By learning how to be compassionate towards others and  collaborate and work in unity with one another, there will be less conflict.  When these children become adults, they in turn will teach their children and the world will be a better place in which to live.  Eventually the cycle will stop and adults will live a more harmonious life with others, and our differences will be cause for celebration and not contention.

This week, let's all try to be more compassionate towards our loved ones.  Be kind to strangers!  Your kind words might be the healing words they need to hear.

This week, let's communicate with each other.  Be honest.  Be uplifting; encouraging words have life. Let your loved ones know what's in your heart.  Life is too short; it could end tomorrow.  Let your love flow out of you.

This week, work as a team; collaborate with one another.
A three strand rope is stronger than a thread!

 Have a great week.

BE KIND.

Judd 

Recommended Reading 03/26/22

 

Miso says it's time for Recommended Reading!

Some housekeeping first. A while back, Blogspot changed its format, resulting in not being able to edit the "Menu Sidebar".  I am no longer able to add new posts to the sidebar. My last post on July 31, 2021 is on the sidebar. After that, you will have to scroll back from new posts. It is what it is.

Let's get started with:

Health and Food

The Superfoods You Should Be Eating

Regenerative Farms: This dramatically increases the nutrient density of your food.

The Amazing Benefits of Arugla

Oven Baked Broccoli and Cauliflower Steaks

Environment

Wildfires Continue to Increase and Spread

What is Really Going On With Gas Prices?

Geothermal Plants Could Solve The Lithium Problem

Human Role in Climate Change is Nothing New

Crazy Shit

What Happened to Starbucks?, maybe this will help: EV charging stations?

 Too "Baaad", this isn't happening more often.

This is just "CRAZY SHIT": God help us, what planet is he from?

Stay The Course

Actions ripple out, both good and bad.

So let's just take a minute to remind ourselves of the importance of spreading love.

Thank you for reading, Judd

When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace. 

Jimi Hendrix

Lemons, "A Great Morning Ritual"

 

Lemons

A Great Morning Ritual

According to Ayurvedic philosophy, choices that we make regarding our daily routine either build up resistance to disease or tear it down. Ayurveda invites us to get a jump-start on the day by focusing on morning rituals that work to align the body with nature's rhythms.  Once we begin to get into a good morning ritual and begin to see results, we start to wonder why we didn't start doing it earlier.

I start every day with Oil pulling. I use organic unrefined coconut oil and the process attracts and removes bacteria and toxins that accumulate in your mouth and throat overnight. It also pulls mucus and congestion from your sinuses. Coconut oil also helps in whitening your teeth! 

But, if you can only make time for one ritual that will improve your health, let it be this...

Start your day with a cup of warm water and the juice of half a lemon.

The benefits are amazing:

1- It boosts your immune system: lemons are high in Vitamin C and potassium.

Vitamin C is great for fighting colds and flu, and potassium stimulates brain and nerve function, and helps control nerve function.

2- It Balances pH: lemons are an incredibly alkaline food, although very acidic on there on, when metabolized they are alkaline. An alkaline body is the key to good health.

3- Aids in digestion: warm water stimulates the gastrointestinal tract and the lemons (high in minerals and vitamins) help loosen toxins.

4- Gentle natural diuretic:  Lemon juice helps flush out unwanted materials because lemons increase the rate of urination in the body. Toxins are, therefore, released at a faster rate which helps keep your urinary tract healthy.

5- Clears skin: Lemon water purges toxins from the blood and Vitamin C decreases winkles and blemishes.

6- Helps with weight loss: Lemons are high in pectin fiber, which helps fight hunger cravings.

7- Hydrates the lymph system: This starts your day on a hydrated note. When your body is dehydrated, or deeply dehydrated (adrenal fatigue) it can't perform all of it's proper functions, which leads to toxic buildup, stress, constipation, and the list goes on. Your adrenals happen to be two small glands that sit on top of your kidneys, and along with your thyroid, create energy. They also secrete important hormones, including aldosterone. Aldosterone is a hormone secreted by your adrenals that regulates water levels and the concentration of minerals, like sodium, in your body, helping you stay hydrated. Your adrenals are also responsible for regulating your stress response. So, the bottom line is that you really don't want to mess with a deep state of dehydration! (from an article by Ashley Dentino on www.mindbodygreen.com/

Have a great week.

Be kind.

Judd

Recommended Reading 12/19/21

This photo was taken at The Garden of Gods in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

It has been quite a while since the last post (July), so I apologize.  

Let's finish off the year with a recommended reading list.

 Health/Food

If you don't know yet, Cardiologist Dr. Joel Kahn tells us "Everything You Need to Know To Start A Plant-based Diet"

From "The No Meat Athlete": 7 Foods Worth Eating Eating Single Day How many do you consume? He along with Robert Cheeke have an incredible new book out called "The Plant-Based Athlete"

Did you know that our bodies produce molecules called cannabinoids, the body's own version of THC and CBD

What the hell is "Sulforaphane" and "Why it is so good for you"  then check out

 "Broccoli- The DNA Whisperer"

Environment

The environment and our health go hand in hand.  Climate change is REAL and our food and lifestyle choices should be the first option in doing our part in helping curb this CRISIS.

How much food is wasted in the world? 1.4 BILLION TONS per YEAR! 80 Billion pounds in the United States alone, which equals 30-40% of food produced. 

The U.S. could feed 800 million people with the grain that livestock is fed.

India is turning "Waste to Watts" using biogas digesters to turn organic waste into electricity.

Did you know the world's largest living single organism is in Pando Forest, Utah?  Alarmingly, deer and elk are devouring it. 

Here in Florida, they are thinking a 20 foot seawall will save Miami from rising sea water.

The year was 1856. Scientists understood physics of climate change.  What The Fuck!

For a free e-book on Climate Change and Global Warming

CRAZY SHIT

When we thought we had heard everything about 9/11, comes the "Great Maritime Rescue of Lower Manhattan"

How Camels- "the ships of the desert" were part of a dark history of  American West.

I will land the plane with "A Letter From 2030"

For an free awesome outlet of environmental, etc. short and full length documentaries check out:

Waterbear 

Have a wonderful Holiday Season.

Be safe.

Judd

Recommended Reading 06/27/21

 

Miso says it's time for Recommended Reading.

I realized that I haven't done a post since March on reading/viewing suggestions.

I hope you enjoy these as much as I do.

Let's get started with:

WELLNESS 

I'm pretty sure all of us have had some unwanted anxiety and stress over the past year.

From an awesome eco-conscious company, Waterlust: "Anxiety and the World Around Me"

From The Beet: "Feel Like Your Stuck in a Life Rut?"

You don't have to live in a Blue Zone region to reap the benefits of a longevity lifestyle: "7Things to Do Now to Make Healthy Eating Easy and Fun"

While you are on a healthy plant-based diet, make sure you are getting all the nutrients you need:

"7 Nutrients You May Be Missing and What to Do About It"

"What Will Future Foods Look Like" from Nutrition Studies.

FOOD and RECIPES

Eating fish has it's own set of environmental issues, why not try "Vegan Sushi" or "5 Mushrooms That Can Replace Fish in Your Diet"

From No Meat Athlete: "The Only Plant Power Bowl You'll Ever Need", They also just published a New York Best Seller called "The Plant Based Athlete", check it out.

For the 4th of July try "Easy Balsamic Potato Salad"

If you have trouble deciding what to eat everyday, for under $2 a week you can get all the help you need with Rich Roll's "Plantpower Meal Planner"

ENVIRONMENT

For a multitude of Food, Environmental and award winning content about our world,  you have to checkout a FREE site.  WaterBear  By becoming a WaterBear member(FREE) you will also have a planted a tree in the Scottish Highlands and help rewild Scotland. #1member1tree

Things you need to know about the  Extreme Drought in California

It's a world wide climate emergency: "It's All About The Heat"

"Why Dead Trees Are the Hottest Commodity"

Things we take for granted: "Demand for Water"

"Water Rich, Water Poor"

CRAZY SHIT

Why is this not taught in school? "Long Hidden Tulsa Massacre"

This why: "The Invention of Whiteness"

Out of sight, out of mind: Just 10 Miles of Los Angeles"

"Keeping The Lights On"

For you cyclists: "Tour de France: How Many Calories Will the Winner Burn?"

 Mobile phones have come a long way, "70 Years"

I'm reading a very interesting book titled: "The Hidden Life of Trees", the connections and similarities of humans and trees are fascinating.

"An organism that is too greedy and takes much without giving anything in return, destroys what it needs for life and dies out"

Have a great week.

Be kind.

Judd

Vitamin K

Vitamin K

Vitamin K was discovered in 1929 by Danish researcher Henrik Dam.  He named it after finding it prevented chickens on a fat-free diet from bleeding out.  He called it the "koagulation" vitamin using the German spelling. 

The body needs Vitamin K to produce prothrombin, which is a protein and blood clotting agent.  It is important in blood clotting and bone metabolism. Vitamin K1 or phylloquinone comes from plants, such as kale, when it is eaten, bacteria in the large intestine converts it to it's storage form of vitamin k2.  It is then stored in the small intestine to be used (combined with Vitamin D)when needed for bone health and blood clotting.

Vitamin K may help keep blood pressure lower by mineralization, where minerals build up in the arteries.  This enables the heart to pump blood more freely.

The RDA is only 70-90 micrograms per day.  1 cup of raw chopped kale is 472 mcg!, so it very easy to be getting enough K.  By eating a balanced healthy diet you will get enough. 

Here are 2 articles for more information:

Food Revolution: Vitamin K

Health Guide: Vitamin K

Vitamin E

 Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant and may help your cells from damage. Also, being it is fat-soluble, your body stores and uses it as needed.  Like rust on your bike or automobile, a similar process of oxidation and accelerated aging takes place in our bodies when we are exposed to free radicals.  Free radicals weaken and break down healthy cells, contributing to heart disease and cancers.  Free radicals form as a result of normal body processes, but more so with exposure to industrial chemicals, pollution, cigarette smoking, etc.  Vitamin E helps in reducing the damage and slowing the aging process down.

It has been shown in many studies that high doses of Vitamin E supplements actually DECREASE life span.  The NIH, reports that taking high doses of Vitamin E in supplement form can cause serious side effects. Including increased risks of hemorrhagic stroke.  

The following foods are good sources:

1 ounce serving:

*Dry roasted sunflower seeds = 7.4mg

*Dry roasted almonds = 6.8mg

*Dry roasted hazelnuts = 4.3mg

*Dry roasted peanuts = 2.2mg

1 cup serving:

*Spinach boiled = 1.9mg

*Broccoli chopped and boiled = 1.2mg

The easiest way to get your RDA (15mg) is by adding a tablespoon of wheat germ oil to a recipe or alternatively snacking on sunflower seeds throughout the day.  Or even a kale/spinach salad with tomato, sunflower seeds sprinkle with wheat germ.  Get creative!

Have a great week.

Be kind.

Get vaccinated!

Judd

Recommended Reading 03/07/21

 Over the past year our son, Jay Bird, "The Bird Nerd" ( I say that lovingly) has been utilizing an app by The Audubon Society to spend time outdoors and learning about the native birds in his area. Kris and I downloaded this app yesterday and already have been using it.  It is an easy way to get outdoors and enjoy nature and an awesome learning tool.

Over the past few weeks I have come across a multitude of articles that are very interesting.  I hope you enjoy this section of the blog as I much as I do researching them. Knowledge is power.

Let's get started with 

ENVIRONMENT

Speaking about the Audubon Society...here's one from National Geographic:

Bringing back the "Most Endangered Bird"  in America.

This one hits home for me, as my work involves some time spent in The Everglades and surrounding areas:

Big Cypress National Park Drilling.

Texas is getting called out on:

Wind Power Lies

Come on Texas, who are you trying to fool: Blackouts weren't caused by renewables.

Aren't there farms in Texas?

South Korea knows what's going on: $43 Billion dollar Worlds largest offshore wind farm.

It's called a "Forest Town", a 42,000 home "eco city" being built in Singapore.

The wild ways  "Local Governments" are blocking renewable energy.

What are the benefits of a "Blue Economy"

Rewilding: How Cities are Prioritizing Green Spaces

HEALTH

What diet is worst for the environment?  IT IS NOT A PLANT-BASED DIET

Trying to eat healthier.. What are "anti-nutrients?

This is an interesting concept: What if Doctors were paid to keep people well?

Here's a free Plant-based Mini Course from The Center for Nutrition Studies

CRAZY SHIT

Guaranteed Income Works

Two Atomic Bombs fell on North Carolina! WHAT!

Russia's Monster Submarines are even scarier than you can imagine.

You can now own The Skinniest House in London, it's only six feet wide.

How about a "Double-decker Bus" with a fireplace, bathtub and walk-in closet.

This one is both Environmental and Crazy:

How Fast are Oceans Rising?

I hope you enjoy these recommendations.

Have a great week.

Be kind.

DON'T BE AN ASSHOLE, WEAR YOUR MASK

Together, we can get through this!

Judd

Vitamin D

 

The Sunshine Vitamin

One of the main sources of Vitamin D comes from our exposure to sunshine. (note: tanning salons are NOT the same!) As UVB rays hit the cholesterol in our skin cells, the energy for Vitamin D synthesis is naturally generated.  The body forms "D" precursors on the skin which in turn the kidneys converts these substances into the active form of Vitamin D. The bloodstream then transport's it throughout the body.  This helps the immune system defends itself against diseases like cancer and heart disease.  It's other important role is to help regulate calcium and phosphate levels, which leads to strong bones, teeth and muscles. 

The average American spends 92% of their life indoors!

Low levels of Vitamin D can lead to increased mortality from heart disease, colon cancer, heightened risk of breast cancer and osteoporosis.   

The most efficient way to get enough of Vitamin D is exposure to sunshine.  Those with light skin only need about 20 minutes of midday sunshine ( the more exposed skin the better).  Those with darker skin need up to 2 hours to absorb the same amount.  This amount of exposure produces approximately 90% of our total amount needed, so the remaining amount needs to come from food or supplementation.  By wearing SPF clothing,(don't stop wearing if you spend a lot of time outside) you are restricting the amount of UVB rays from interacting with your skin.  By taking a 5000iu(125mcg) supplement daily you will be getting what you need. Studies have shown that Vitamin D also helps in preventing COVID 19, by improving your immune system.

Foods that are high in Vitamin D are:

*Fish- Salmon being the highest.

*Crimini Mushrooms-Portabella coming in 2nd.

*Fortified Milks-Nut milks preferred (see link).

*Fortified Yogurts-Dairy-free preferred again.

*Fortified Tofu/Tempeh- also high in protein

5 Conditions That Affect Vitamin D Absorption and How To Tell If You Are Deficient 

There are many opinions on the use of sunscreen.  Yes, they do protect you from excessive amounts of UV rays which can lead to skin damage and possibly skin cancer.  But, did you know that most sunscreens contain: Avobenzone, Oxybenzone, Ecamsule or Octocrylene.   These are hormone-disrupting cancer-causing chemicals that can mess with body, which immediately begin absorbing into your bloodstream the minute you rub it on your skin!  The FDA determined just one application of sunscreen leaves your blood with 180 times the "safe" amount of these chemicals.  That's CRAZY.  In addition, sunscreen PROHIBITS your body from producing Vitamin D.  Be informed that they are very toxic to the environment, especially our marine life.  There are many natural, chemical free, safe sunscreens to choose from: Mad Hippie, Goddess Garden, Blue Lizard, and Raw Elements

Here are some foods that boost your skin's natural sun protection:

Citrus, Carrots, Strawberries, Green Tea and more

When outside for long periods of time, wear wide-brimmed hats, UV long sleeved shirts and sunglasses to protect your eyes.

DON'T FEAR THE SUN

Have a great week.

Be kind.

PLEASE WEAR YOUR MASKS 

Judd

Vitamin C

 

Fruits and vegetables such as oranges, strawberries, papayas, green peppers, broccoli and tomatoes are great sources of vitamin C.  

Why is vitamin C so essential to our health?  In its active form of ascorbic acid it helps keep us healthy by:

*Absorbing iron from plant sources and balances our iron stores

*High antioxidant protection from free radicals.

*Helps in healing wounds.

*Most importantly it boosts our immune system, which we really need now with Covid.

Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin, which means you can easily absorb it from food sources, but you can't store it.  You need to get it every day.  The RDA is 90 mg for males and 70 mg for women.  Which amounts to about an orange a day.  But the optimum level should be around 200 mg per day.  Our body sucks up every bit of 200 mg, but then blocks any further absorption.  Any amount over that just gets peed and pooped out to maintain proper blood levels.  So just forget about taking a 1000 mg vitamin C supplement as it gets flushed down the drain.

A common misconception is that taking high amounts of vitamin C will treat and cure the common cold.  According to recent studies that is not true.  By keeping the right amount of vitamin C in our bodies it will keep our immune system strong enough to prevent or lessen the effects of a common cold.

Vitamin C helps your body's T cells fight infection. (T cells are part of the immune system and develop from stem cells in the bone marrow.) T cells defend your body by killing infected cells and calling B cells to action.  By using antibodies B cells identify pathogens and mark cells for death.

Vitamin C helps to produce more immune cells (natural killer cells) which attack infected cells and tumors more efficiently.  Its antioxidant properties helps prevent cell damage and dying during inflammation from fighting off infection.

By consuming a plant-based diet we will not have a problem getting enough Vitamin C.

Go have an orange!

Have a great week.

Be kind.

WEAR YOUR MASK

Judd

10 Year Blog Anniversary

 February 6, 2011

It's been 10 years since we posted our 1st blog post: Skinny Bitch in the Kitch

In that time we have posted over 300 different recipes, ideas and general knowledge of living a plant-based, eco-friendly lifestyle.  With over 65,000 views, I hope we have been able to  make a difference in your daily choices of how you look at your diet, health and the beautiful world we live in.  Throughout this journey I have broadened my horizons and learned many things about myself.   I have also made mistakes in what I have posted and went back and edited those to make it right.  I have learned that you must listen, study and make your own decisions on the information you receive from others.  Do not rely on what you read and hear from one person's thoughts and ideas.  Everyone has an opinion, it doesn't mean they are correct.  Listen to your heart, spirit and (especially for your health): your gut.

Over the next few weeks I am hoping to continue posting on the different vitamins and their roles and benefits for our health.  Vitamin A and Vitamin B complex have been already covered.  I will do each one in order, C, D etc. and even one you might not know that is essential: Vitamin "N". You have to wait for that one, (or maybe not!) it is way down the list.

Here's a few thoughts to ponder:

A completely plant-based burger and fries

Have a great week. 

Be kind.

WEAR YOUR MASK!

Judd

Recommended Reading 01/09/21

 

We all know 2020 has been quite a crazy unusual year.  The world is changing in both good and bad ways.  The climate crisis needs to be the #1 priority for the whole world to address.  No longer can we go on as we have been and pretending it is a hoax.  We are in the cusp of the sixth mass extinction, where we are losing 150-200 species of  plants, insects, birds and mammals to extinction every 24 hours. Our dependence on fossil fuels and unsustainable animal agriculture practice has got to stop.  We can grow enough grain to feed 70 billion animals but not enough for 7 billion people?  We have been told to use more efficient light bulbs, take shorter showers, etc.   It takes 2400 gallons of water to produce 1 pound of meat.  Only 25 gallons of water to produce 1 pound of wheat.   You can save more water by not eating a pound of meat than you can by not taking a shower for 6 months!

But there is hope, Eat Just A San Francisco business which started out producing a plant-based egg substitute (Hampton Creek "Ju st" mayo and  "Ju st" eggs) has gotten approval from Singapore to start producing "lab-grown chicken" ending the the overcrowded factory farm way of raising chickens.

Elephants are booming in Kenya, there populations have doubled in the past 30 years.

Investors have been pouring more money into green energy than ever before.

An Australian renewable energy project could power most of Singapore.

What does the future hold for the growth of renewables?

"Bringing science to life through storytelling and protecting the oceans in order to drive positive change" OceanX   

U.K. to ban sales of fossil fuel vehicles by 2030, California by 2035.

Want to help prevent future pandemics?

Good read: Rich Roll on "How to Evolve and Reach Your Goals"

Have a great week.

Be kind.

WEAR YOUR MASK!

Juddd

Vitamin B Complex

 

What is vitamin B complex?

Vitamin B complex is composed of 8 B vitamins.

B1-(thiamine)

B2-(riboflavin)

B3-(niacin)

B5-(pantothenic acid)

B6-(pyridoxine)

B7-(biotin)

B9-(folic acid)

B12-(cobalamin)

Each of these essential vitamins contributes to your overall body function, maintaining good health.  As building blocks for a healthy body they have a direct impact on our energy levels, brain function and cell metabolism.  Vitamin B complex helps prevent infections and supports or promotes:

cell health

growth of red blood cells

energy levels

good eyesight

healthy brain function

good digestion

healthy appetite

proper nerve function

hormone and cholesterol production

cardiovascular health

muscle tone

A major concern for plant-based eaters is getting enough vitamin B 12.

B 12 is naturally found in animal products such as meat, fish, eggs and dairy.  Vitamin B 12 is actually a bacteria, produced by microorganisms in the soil.  Animals obtain this from consuming grasses and scratching and rooting through dirt.  It's possible to obtain some B 12 from not washing all the dirt off your fresh picked veggies but who wants to eat dirt.  According to the National Health  and Nutrition Examination Survey one in every 31 adults in the US are deficient in vitamin B 12.  

Common signs of B 12 deficiency are:

*Weakness, fatigue or low energy.

*Shortness of breath.

*Loss of appetite.

*Digestive issues.

*Frequent bruising or bleeding.

*Numbness or tingling in hands or feet.

*Brain fog, memory loss, or confusion.

By eating enriched foods products such as fortified nutritional yeast, soy, cereals and meat substitutes and Nori seaweed, we can increase our uptake some.  The best way to get enough is to take a supplement.  B 12 has many forms and the most common are cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin.  "Cyano" is commonly found in supplements and energy drinks, while "methyl" is a little more expensive and less stable. For both meat and plant-based eaters, 2000 mcg is the recommended weekly dose for those under 60 years of age.  When you reach that age of 60+ it needs to be bumped up to 1000mcg daily!  I supplement by taking a 1000 mcg quick dissolve chewable Cyano tablet from Trader Joe's every 3 day and an added brazil nut once a week.

They are easily found for a great price on Amazon.

If ignored a Vitamin B deficiency can effect the whole body leading to permanent brain and nerve damage.  By eating a mostly alkaline, hydrating diet full of fresh veggies, grains and fruit are intestines will stay clean and function properly.  

B Healthy

Have a great week. 

Be kind.

Judd

Vitamin A

 

Vitamin A

Pre-formed vitamin A exists only in animal products.  What does a plant-based eater need to do?  There are about 50 carotenoids from plants that the body can convert into Vitamin A, the most common being beta-carotene.  Beta-carotene is an anti-oxidant which fights free radicals, especially in the brain which is mostly fat.  Studies have shown that anti-oxidants through diet helps people's immune systems protect against free radicals and lowers the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. Vitamin A deficiency begins with night blindness and can progress to more serious complications.  I guess that is why our parents wanted us to eat those carrots!   Also this deficiency reduces the ability to fight off infections and why it is important in building good red blood cell formation.   Animal products like beef, lamb and goose liver are very high in Vitamin A.  The problem is Vitamin A is fat-soluble and is stored in our liver which can be toxic.  The body limits the amount of beta-carotene converted to Vitamin A and only uses what is needed.  So, if  the body has too much beta-carotene in its system and doesn't need it as A, it will store it as beta-carotene until needed.  This will help keep the liver from becoming toxic.  Plants to the rescue!  Our body needs approximately 700-900 RAE(retinol activity equivalent) each day for optimal nutrition.  

Some Plants High in Beta-carotene:

Sweet potato...1/2 cup baked...961  RAE

Pumpkin...1/2 cup canned...953 RAE

Carrots...1/2 cup boiled...665 RAE

Butternut Squash...1/2 cup baked cubes...572 RAE

Carrot juice...1/4 cup...564 RAE

Spinach...1/2 cup cooked...472 RAE

Collard greens...1/2 cup cooked...386 RAE

Broccoli... 1/2 cup boiled...120 RAE

By adding a source of healthy fat such as avocados, olive oil, nuts and seeds with these foods help your body to absorb the beta-carotene.   Try blending carrot juice with full-fat coconut milk(canned) and ginger!

Have  great week.

Be kind.

WEAR YOUR MASK!

Judd