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Detoxification is important , but we need to understand the basics. In general, four primary toxin removal systems must all be working in harmony with each other to remove toxins and waste from our bodies. These four systems involve: The disposal of cellular waste products, especially lactic acid (a chemical your body produces when your cells break down carbs. for energy). The removal of larger waste products through your lymph (smaller waste products go into your veins and are exhaled or sent directly to your liver). The processing of toxins by your liver, most of which then go into bile and then into your digestive tract for final clearance (some are made water-soluble and go to your kidneys to be excreted in urine). The final clearance of waste products by your digestive tract. These four systems flow from one to another. Any glitch in any one of these major systems of detoxification will back-up waste up in your body and cause problems. We are constantly exposed to toxins, even worse if we eat poor quality food, drink unfiltered water, live near pesticide and herbicide spraying (sadly near many farms), live near heavy pollution, or live in a moldy house. In addition, through the body's natural chemical reactions, your body produces toxic trash metabolites that must be cleared. This can be made worse if you have digestive problems, sinus problems, are under high stress, are fighting a bug, are recovering from surgery, do not sleep enough, or if you physically wear yourself out over working or over-exercising. Every day there is a certain amount of housecleaning you must do depending on different variables. This means your need to employ various detoxification strategies can vary on different days depending on what is going on, what you have been exposed to and how you are doing. Our sleep time is our primary housecleaning time, exactly how you feel when you wake up in the morning and how long it takes you to get your energy systems up and running are fairly good measures of how your detox systems are working. If you wake up feeling like you didn't sleep well you most likely have a toxic back load. So What Can We Do To Support our four detox pathways? As mentioned above, make sleep a high priority . Go to bed routinely at a good time to get sufficient hours of sleep. Avoid news and excitement before bed. As well, try to avoid the blue screens and incorporate a relaxation routine instead. Keep your room dark, cool, and comfortable. Drink plenty of filtered water throughout the day. Avoid water in plastic bottles if at all possible. (Please, only use bottled water when absolutely - no other way possible necessary). Eat wholesome, nutritious foods. Foods that will supply your protein, carbs, and fats are necessary for your body to function optimally. Your body needs the essential nutrients to function properly. You can only get that in wholesome, nutritious foods (whole foods, minimally processed foods). Support your lymph circulation by dry brushing , movement, and certain stretches. Healthy lymph circulation helps ease congestion or pressure in the shoulders, neck, and ears. Feeling a little off? It could just be your lymph system is stagnating and backed up. Use a proven air purifier in your home and office or work area. These five steps mentioned above are an excellent way to support your body's detox pathways, and sometimes it's all that is necessary to get things flowing and out and make you feel better. But, many live in a polluted environment. Exhaust fumes and industrial pollution exceed Environmental Protection Agency guidelines for air quality in most metropolitan areas. Processed foods contain numerous chemical additives and estrogen-like pesticides that are toxic. Poor ventilation, molds, and off-gassing of carpets, mattresses, paint, and building materials are other problems in many homes, schools, and offices. Plus, the natural waste made by the body from normal metabolic functions must be cleared. These toxins add up, can stagnate, make you feel ill, and cause disease. The toxins add a burden to your body. If not cleared the toxic load will accumulate all the while the liver is working overtime! Besides the 5 steps mentioned above, there are herbal and nutritional products that can support and aid your body in the natural process of detoxification. Some of the top nutritional items are chlorella, milk thistle extract, dandelion root extract, NAC, resveratrol, taurine, and r-alpha lipoic acid. Then, additional support can also come in the way of saunas. These help you sweat some of the toxins out, including heavy metals. We will discuss some of these top choices next time. Meanwhile, check out our Detox Aid Page . So stay tuned! ( : Wishing you all the best in health ~ Val

So, if you're new to Red Light Therapy you have a lot of questions. Let's get the most popular questions answered for you. What is Red Light Therapy, or RLT? Red Light Therapy is a natural and non-invasive way to treat certain health and skin concerns by using low levels of red or near-infrared light. Created by NASA to aid in wound healing for astronauts in space , RLT is now available to the general public. RLT uses light-emitting diodes (LED) at certain wavelengths  to penetrate the skin and reach deep layers of tissue. RLT is scientifically researched and proven so, has become very popular. How do you use Red Light Therapy? You can reap the rewards by using panels, belts, or other devices. The average red light therapy session takes only 20-30 minutes and can be quite relaxing. It's the perfect time to slip in some meditation & relaxation while you are at it! It is a good idea to start slowly and gradually increase the time to the 20-30 minutes per session. Treatment should be a few times per week. For optimal results, the red light should interact directly with your skin. You'll want to wear minimal clothing to maximize the area of exposure, enhancing the absorption of the therapeutic light waves. What are the benefits of Red Light Therapy? The benefits are many! RLT is used to assist in Chronic pain relief, a boost in mood, activates stem cells, increases tissue repair, helps with skin rejuvenation and minimizes the appearance of skin issues, Improve workout recovery, deepen sleep, promote hair growth, and support blood circulation. It does this by stimulating the cells deep inside muscles, joints, and skin. There is also growing interest in utilizing RLT for cognitive function. And, the positive results of Red Light Therapy have been scientifically proven. (*Please note: If you're using red light therapy for specific medical conditions, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a qualified practitioner to determine the most appropriate frequency and duration for your needs.) How long does it take to notice the benefits of RLT? Of course we are all have different body chemistry so the results will vary. Factors will also include the specific area being treated and the frequency of the treatments. Also, take into consideration lifestyle, degree of concern, health status, and age. Many feel a boost in mood directly after the very first treatment. This is a wonderful sign that the RLT is working. It is not uncommon that pain resolves or is reduced by the second week of use. You can also expect brighter skin after about 2 weeks.  It can often take consistent sessions over several months to fully realize the complete benefit of your optimized cell functions. Are the benefits of Red Light Therapy permanent? The benefits are progressive and cumulative, meaning they build over time with regular use and consistency of use is key. The improvements you see with red light therapy will remain as long as you continue to use the treatment. Once regular sessions are discontinued, the benefits may gradually diminish over time. This is because collagen production or muscle tissue health — require ongoing stimulation to continue delivering results. For lasting impact, integrating red light therapy into your long-term wellness routine is essential, just as is the need to maintain a healthy diet or a commitment to regular exercise. Red Light Therapy can be a part of your ongoing commitment to pursing wellness. With consistent use, you can and will prolong and enhance the therapy’s positive effects. Are you ready to try RLT for your self? We are partnered with Mito Red Light and Higher Dose , both of which have amazing RLT panels, belts, masks, and other Red Light Therapy solutions. Both have several choices to choose from and a whole lot of information where you can learn more about RLT. Both are great places to get started with Red Light Therapy! Pub Med, Photobiomodulation: The Clinical Applications of Low-Level Light Therapy Pub Med. Reverse skin aging signs by red light photobiomodulation National Library of Medicine, Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation Frontiers | Transcranial near-infrared light in treatment of neurodegenerative diseases #affiliate

Have you ever wondered what your genes say about you? SelfDecode is dedicated to uncovering your genetic predispositions and providing lifestyle recommendations to optimize your health and wellness.  But how does it work? Well, that's where the science of DNA analysis comes in!    What is DNA? DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acids, are the building blocks of our genetic material. Although only composed of 4 nucleotides (A/C/G/T), these little guys encode all of the functions that make us who we are.  We inherit our unique genetic code from our parents: half from our mother and half from our father. Encoded traits that our parents pass on to us are a roadmap to the types of proteins we produce and the possible predispositions to disorders common within the family.  How does DNA analysis work? So, how do I determine what variations I have in my genetic code? The answer lies in DNA analysis.    Every cell in your body contains the same copy of DNA, so retrieving the sample is quite simple. The most common types of DNA collection are from your blood, skin cells or saliva. For example, SelfDecode just needs a bit of your saliva to get all the important information - no needles! Just a bit of saliva, it's that easy! After the lab receives your DNA sample, they perform DNA analysis to identify SNPs (variations) in your unique genetic code that can explain traits and predispositions towards certain conditions.  How does DNA influence your health? Once you receive your DNA analysis results, how in the world do you interpret them?  Luckily, SelfDecode does the grunt work for you. They utilize over 60 MD’s, Ph.D.’s and ND’s to comb through scientific literature and your genetic code to identify SNPs that influence your health, both physically and mentally.  Some SNPs, like eye color, are benign and don't carry significant weight on our health outcomes. On the other hand, other SNPs can have noticeable effects and lead to suboptimal health.  Understanding your genetic code and how it influences your health is a self-discovery process. SelfDecode can help you identify SNPs and take action to optimize your inherited genetic deck. Genes are the general roadmap to your health, but that does not mean that they are absolute - lifestyle interplays with genetics to determine your overall wellness. That’s why SelfDecode also takes into account your lab work and lifestyle, to provide you with personalized recommendations ranked by impact on your overall health. How is SelfDecode different from other DNA companies? I’m glad you asked! Well, SelfDecode is the ONLY company that’s using AI in genomics to give you the most accurate and science-backed results! By using something called genetic imputation, they can analyze up to 83 million variants from a typical DNA file! That is 1 million times more than some of the other companies out there.  With 450+ health and trait reports you can dive as deep as you want into your health journey and discover your genetic predisposition in a hundred more areas than with other DNA tests.  SelfDecode doesn't just analyze your genetic code to pinpoint variations that can make you susceptible to certain ailments. They go a step further by outlining evidence-based diet, supplement and lifestyle recommendations that are tailored to work best with our unique genetic makeup, potentially reducing your risk of developing disorders.  Have a look at the different SelfDecode plans and take control of your health: Let Pursuance help you take control today!

Did you know the average shampoo sitting on the shelves has over 15 chemicals in the creamy mix? These chemicals are known to mess with your natural hormone production. So they are referred to as endocrine disruptors. As we know, the endocrine system consists of the glands and organs that make hormones and release them directly into the blood. They then travel to tissues and organs all over the body. The hormones released by the endocrine system control many important functions in the body, including growth and development, metabolism, and reproduction. If you look at the ingredients of most shampoos out there you will see a list of chemicals such as ammonium laureth sulfate, cocamide DHA, formaldehyde, sodium lauryl sulfate, parabens and synthetic perfumes. Then there is Dimethicone, a silicon, that will eventually build up causing breakage and build up at the roots. Also alarming is that some shampoos contain heavy metals, also known to cause hair loss! These chemicals will not create the healthy hair you want because they make your scalp unhealthy and will dry your hair out causing it to break off. These chemicals are absorbed into your body and once absorbed can create havoc in your endocrine system. Other chemicals induce inflammation at the scalp, causing hair loss. Inflammation for the right reason is good, but we know chronic inflammation leads to a whole lot of problems! So what do you do? To begin with, I encourage you to stop using these chemical-laden shampoos and switch to an alternative. We know health begins on the inside, however, the shampoos are external damage that is being absorbed to the inside. Once you stop using the chemicals and support your body with proper nutrition and support, eventually, the scalp will re-calibrate and behave healthily. Ways to Support Your Scalp and Hair Growth Diet is a key denominator when it comes to healthy hormones. Eating a diet high in healthy fats, leafy greens, and other plant foods, and a good moderate amount of proteins. Avoid sugars, simple carbs, and oils like canola, corn, or soybean oil. Omega 3s found in fish like salmon and sardines or quality supplements are necessary for health. A lack of Omega 3s can contribute to hair lackluster and hair loss. Here are some great Omega 3s to try! Drink green tea, matcha is great! It is loaded with antioxidants and can disrupt an enzyme involved in converting testosterone to a follicle-killing form, DHT (think male pattern baldness). 2 cups a day would be very good for this. Try supplementing with herbs that help balance hormones. Ashwagandha, Black Cohosh, and Chaste Tree Extract are all some to try. Try these Ashwagandha Gummies! Low iron can contribute to hair loss. If you are experiencing hair loss you may want to test for low iron/ferritin. You can do this with a home lab test or see your medical provider and ask for the test. Your thyroid health plays a large role in your hair health. To support your thyroid be sure to include foods rich in selenium, zinc, and iodine (Brazil nuts, oysters, seaweed). If you're experiencing thinning hair you may want to have your thyroid levels checked. Paloma Health are expert when it comes to thyroid health! Find just about everything you need to know at Paloma Health. You can even get at-home Thyroid Tests without a doctor's visit and save $30. with code PURSUANCE Stress. Stress will affect the health of your hair due to the production of too much cortisol. You need to do all you can to reduce the impact stress can have. Things like taking a walk in nature, yoga, calling a friend you haven't spoken with in a while, writing down all your blessings, deep breathing exercises, meditation, and prayer. Also, the Ashwagandha mentioned above can be helpful when it comes to stress. Detox: You need to detox those chemicals. Our body has several detox pathways for removing these chemicals and metals (breath, pee, poop, sweat), however, if overloaded, your body needs assistance. You can check out detox aids here. And last but not least choose cleaner shampoo, without all the harmful chemicals. There are several available. Avalon Organics has some wonderful shampoos and conditioners. You can find them here! And, We have EVOLVh! EVOLVh is on a mission to rewrite the Clean Beauty Hair narrative by creating a first-of-its kind, science-backed line-eliminating the need to choose between clean and cutting-edge, while surpassing the experience, benefits, and environmental impact of traditional hair care products. You owe it to yourself to give them a try today! Click here Give these suggestions a try. It may take a little while to see the improvements but rest assured, you will be improving your health and the health of your hair by taking these steps.

Positive Mental Health Requires Pillars For Support A pillar provides essential support. The pillars our bodies require are the foundational support of sleep, nutrition, and exercise. These are paramount for wellness and positive health, physically and mentally. Our bodies and our minds are not separate. Being in a good mental state can help keep you healthy and help prevent serious health conditions. Studies find that positive psychological well-being can reduce the risks of heart attacks, strokes, and even cancer. On the other hand, poor mental health can lead to poor physical health or harmful behaviors. Physical and mental health go hand in hand. Anxiety: Anxiety is an example of a mental health problem. Everyone knows someone with anxiety and we've all experienced it at some point in our lives, to a certain degree. Anxiety is caused by too much stress over a long period, accumulated stress that has never been mitigated, or from a traumatic period in your life. Anxiety can lead to depression and depression can lead to anxiety. Stress, It's Everywhere! It's Been Everywhere! It's Not Ever Going Away! Some will say that we live in the most stressful of all times, however, I'm not so sure of that. I will say things may sometimes seem that way, but all generations have had stress. Consider the generations whose lives were filled with fear of the dictating foreigners that now ruled them, the generation that left their home countries and boarded a ship to take the long journey across the sea to find a new home with the promise of freedom where they could live in peace, think of the stress of the ones living in war-torn countries, or the generation that lived through the great depression not knowing if you could buy a loaf of bread for your family, and individuals having to live through genocide! The list can go on and on. It is well known these are just a small example of the stresses that have been faced by many. Could it be that it seems as though life is more stressful because of our coping mechanisms are not up to par due to poor diets, lack of exercise and not getting the proper sleep? I'm thinking it could be a good bet. A widely used definition of stressful situations is a situation in which the demands of that situation threaten to exceed the resources of the individual. Who do you know that doesn't eat well, doesn't get much exercise or stays up late until all hours of the night on their device? None of that supports your body in standing against the demands of a stressful situation. Of course genetics can play a role, however, the foods you eat, the foods you avoid, the sleep and exercise you get can influence how your genes respond. Stress is no small thing. It needs to be dealt with. Although our bodies are designed to take on some stress via the flight or fight part of our central nervous called the sympathetic nervous system, it is chronic stress that can get us into trouble! It is well known that chronic stress has negative effects on your cardiovascular system, immune system, digestive system, endocrine system, and memory. It can wreak havoc on your health! It can cause mental health problems, again, such as anxiety. So How Do You Deal With Stress? How Do You Mitigate Those Anxious Feelings? How Do You Support Your Mental Health? Take a time-out. Practice yoga, listen to music, dance, meditate, get a massage, learn relaxation techniques, and take some time out to do something that you enjoy. Stepping back from the problem helps clear your head. Eat well-balanced meals. Eat balanced, nutrient-dense meals. Keep healthful, energy-boosting snacks on hand, ditch, or cut down on the sugar and simple carbs. Limit alcohol and caffeine, these can aggravate anxiety and trigger panic attacks. Get enough sleep. When you are stressed, your body needs additional sleep and rest. Opt for earlier evenings, turn off the TV and other devices, keep it dark / no lights Exercise daily this helps you feel good and releases feel-good hormones. Your body craves some exercise, do what you can. Go for a walk if possible. Get Take deep breaths. Inhale deeply and exhale slowly. Mindful breathing oxygenates your body. Count to 10 slowly. Repeat, and count to 20 if necessary. Do your best. No one is perfect. Don't aim for perfection, which isn't possible, be proud of any positive choice you make toward your pursuit of wellness. Accept that you cannot control everything. Put your stress in perspective: Is it as bad as you think? Does God have this? Haven't you worried in the past and it turned out not to be as bad as you had imagined? Give yourself a break. Welcome humor. A good laugh goes a long way. Make someone else laugh. It's good for the soul. Maintain a positive attitude. Make an effort to replace negative thoughts with positive ones. Get out in nature. Observe the trees, flowers, wildlife, and the color of the sky. Get involved. Volunteer or find another way to be active in your community, which creates a support network giving you a break from everyday stress, and helps you think of others instead of yourself only. Learn what triggers your anxiety. What stresses you? Work, family, school, or something else you can identify? Write in a journal when you’re feeling stressed or anxious, and look for a pattern. Become aware of your triggers and stomp on them with positive thoughts. Talk to someone. Tell friends and family you’re feeling overwhelmed, and let them know how they can help you. You may want to talk to a psychologist. It's o,k to share. We all need other people. We were not designed to be alone and withdrawn. We are to bear one another's burdens. It's healthy to do so. The Bible tells us so (Hebrews 10:23 - 25). Please Try The Holistic Approach First The suggestions listed above can be very helpful. In addition, simple nutrients like Magnesium can do wonders for stress and anxious feelings as magnesium can have a calming effect and affects every system in the body. It's that important! Many are deficient in magnesium and don't even know it so it's a good idea to eat foods high in magnesium as much as possible. Foods high in magnesium include: Nuts – like walnuts, almonds, and macadamia nuts Green leafy vegetables – like kale, spinach, and collard greens Avocado – perfect in salads and on sandwiches Seeds – like sunflower and flax seeds Dark Chocolate (70%) Organic fish and chicken – lower in mineral content, but combined with green leafy veggies to boost magnesium! You can also supplement your magnesium if you feel you're not consuming enough from the foods you eat. Many people are deficient in magnesium. You can shop for Magnesium here, from our selection of trusted supplement sources. Now that you are aware, Share with others that May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Anxiety is only one of several issues. Attention needs to be brought forth. Many suffer. The stigma needs to be addressed and no one should feel alone because of it. Do You Have a Predisposition To Anxiety? It May Be! That's where SelfDecode Can Come in! Now you can dig deep into your body and see how it's working. You can find out if you have risks of anxiety. If you do, you get recommendations on how to help yourself. The SelfDecode AI algorithm analyzes your DNA, labs, lifestyle, symptoms and conditions, and goals, to give you prioritized and personalized recommendations. WOW! That's quit amazing! Since pretty much all mood issues can be fixed - so you can look at the brighter side of things, you may want to consider SelfDecode! Beware! Unfortunately, for some with anxiety, their doctors are too quick to prescribe medications like Benzodiazepines (Zanax, Klonopin, Ativan, Librium, and others ). Be very cautious with these medications. They are intended for only short-term use, however, many patients remain on these for an extended time. They are physically addictive, have long-term risks, have a boxed warning and no studies are showing convincing evidence of long-term benefit. You may want to discuss with your doctor an alternative to Benzos! For more information regarding Benzodiazapens please refer to this extensively informative website. Benzodiazapen Information Coalition. Wishing you all, the very best in your health Val Now that you are aware, Share with others that May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Anxiety is only one of several issues. Attention needs to be brought forth. Many suffer. The stigma needs to be addressed and no one should feel alone because of it. #affiliate

Top o the mornin' to ya! St Patrick's Day is just around the corner. And whilst some of you will be out sipping on an ice-cold glass of the delicious black stuff… (that’s Guinness) or at least be wearing green. Our friends over at Chef’s Foundry have you covered if you are planning to feast with friends and family indoors! Their cookware is a must-have in the kitchen. But before we get onto that, have you ever thought to ask… Could your frying pan be slowly poisoning your family? New research suggests that as many as 70% of all Americans may be unknowingly using a frying pan laced with a WWII military-grade chemical… It's true and over 266 scientists and counting are sounding the alarm that this stuff needs to be banned. Has it been? No. Why? Cos’ big chemical companies profits come first, in their own eyes. This nasty chemical may be lurking in the cookware of up to 70% of all Americans kitchen cupboards. And it has been shown to be linked to: ⚠️ Birth Defects ⚠️ Hyperthyroidism ⚠️ Autoimmune Diseases ​⚠️ Testicular & Kidney Cancer ​⚠️ & Even Obesity and more, like liver disease To see if your family is at risk read more here. We’ll even show you a quick 3 minute test you can do to see if your cookware is safe. Again, read more here. You won’t regret it. And, because we like to eat healthy during celebrations I thought I would share a link to an easy, gluten-free Irish Soda Bread recipe that I found, right here on Elaina's Pantry. Thank you, Elaina! To your health, ☘️ Val P.S As a special Paddy’s Day bonus Chef’s Foundry is giving away a FREE 3-Piece P600 Chef’s Knife Set with each cookware set sold worth $237! This offer is good until 3/17/24 #affiliate

Did you grow up eating cereal for breakfast? Many of us did and many of us still do. For parents it's easy, and convenient during those hectic mornings; off to work and school. Just pour and breakfast is served. With breakfast, you intend to give your body nourishment and the fuel it needs to get you through until lunch. It receives the vitamins and minerals necessary for optimal health. Breakfast is important! With breakfast, we intend to give our bodies some of what they need to keep them functioning, assisting in the multiple chemical reactions taking place in our bodies every second of every day. The constant cell turnover, the constant filtering of blood, the building of bones, our immune systems monitoring, our brains processing, our bodies are in a constant state of activity! "Just Be Healthy"? When you consider the various jobs your body has it helps you to realize the importance of providing it nutrient-dense fuel (Food). Is that what you thought you were doing when you purchased the Cheerios, Honey Nut Cheerios, Frosted Cheerios, and Oat Crunch Oats N’ Honey Cheerios? The package says, "Just Be Healthy". I mean geez, corporations like General Mills and Quaker Oats have been around for a long time. We can trust them. The boxes say right on them, "Heart Healthy, Good Fiber, Lowers Cholesterol, Gluten-free", oh and, "Only Cents a Day"! With these claims some believe their getting a good breakfast. What's For Breakfast, again? If you read the label, you are aware of what you are eating and, feeding your family, you would think, anyway. However, I don't see chlormequat on this label! Do you? It's in there tho! What is Chlormequat? Chlormequat is a highly toxic agricultural chemical the EPA has referred to as a pesticide and has allowed it on imported oats and grains. It works by altering plant growth. It is applied to oat and grain crops while they’re growing to prevent the plants from bending over, making it easier to harvest. Not only does the EPA allow it on imported oats and grains, but currently, the EPA is proposing to allow chlormequat on domestic wheat and oats and permit residues in our milk, meat, dairy, and eggs. Animal studies show chlormequat can damage the reproductive system and disrupt fetal growth, creating alarming and particular concerns about how ingesting it might harm children. Chlormequat exposure has been linked to health problems in mammals: Disrupting fetal growth Changing how heads and bones develop Altering metabolism Delaying development during puberty Changing sperm’s ability to move efficiently Decreasing testosterone production Harming the nervous system in research, a study conducted by Anresco, an independent, accredited lab in California, chlormequat was found in all but one of 13 non-organic oat-based cereals, granola, and other products (including Quaker Oats Old Fashioned Oats & Walmart Great Value Oats & Honey Granola). Of these products, 11 had chlormequat levels higher than The Environmental Working Group feels is safe for children’s health! 2 Class Action Lawsuits Have Been Filed Against General Mills and Quaker Oats Two separate class action lawsuits have been filed against General Mills and Quaker Oats. Both class actions allege dangerously high levels of the toxic pesticide chlormequat chloride in the companies' products. Lab testing revealed Cheerios, Honey Nut Cheerios, Frosted Cheerios, and Oat Crunch Oats N’ Honey Cheerios contain dangerous levels of chlormequat. Similarly, lab testing found very high levels of chlormequat in six Quaker Oats products. "Consumers, including plaintiffs, would not have purchased the products had their labels accurately disclosed the presence of chlormequat in Cheerios," the General Mills class action states. What Can You Do? If you have these items in your pantry I encourage you to return them to the store for a full refund. Tell the store clerk you did not intend on purchasing chlormequat for breakfast. Unless & until federal regulators act to get chlormequat out of our food, buying organic can help reduce your potential exposure to the chemical. You can also take action and tell the EPA it shouldn't allow chlormequat in our foods. Also, contact your representatives. Be a squeaky wheel! Please stand up for your health and the health of our children! You can share this information so that others are aware! Speak your mind on the EPA's Facebook Page here or Contact the EPA here EPA Document Reviewing chlormequat toxicity Study: Disrupts fetal growth Study: Decreases testosterone Study on mice Wishing you and yours the best of health -Val

Our health is being harmed by Synthetic chemicals used in everyday products and the PFAS are ones that lately we've been hearing a lot about. PFAS stands for polyfluoroalkyl substances. These chemicals are used in non-stick cookware, food containers like take-out boxes, stain-proofing, furniture, water-resistant clothing, and adhesives to name a few. We are exposed to PFAS by the processing and by the use of the products. They are in our homes and at work, there almost everywhere, including in our bodies. PFAS detrimentally impacts our health with issues like kidney, testicular, and thyroid cancer, harm to fetuses, damage to the liver, and reproductive harm. These have all shown up in human and animal studies. Children are especially at risk. PFAS have eerily been called forever chemicals because they are nearly indestructible; they don't go away (maybe in 1000 years). For some reason (anyone want to guess?), manufacturers don’t have to disclose to consumers that they’re using them, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) doesn’t regulate or test for most PFAS chemicals. And now, two environmental advocacy groups allege that the "EPA Illegally Hid Health and Safety Data on PFAS Found in Millions of Plastic Containers". They state that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is breaking the law by concealing health and safety data about the class of toxic chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) found in millions of plastic containers. A lawsuit has been filed. What Can We Do About It? Although everywhere, we can take steps to minimize our exposure to PFAS Avoid plastic containers:  Refrain from using plastic containers whenever possible, especially for storing food. Choose glass or stainless-steel containers instead. Glass mason jars work great for storing foods like soup and leftovers. Never, use plastic in a microwave: If you must use a microwave never use plastic or the grease-resistant PFAS laden wrap that foods can come in. (Microwaving food for any reason destroys the quality of food). Choose packaging wisely:  Be mindful when purchasing food products and opt for items that are not packaged in plastic.  Give preference to organic fruits and vegetables, which are less likely to be packaged in plastic. Research products:  If you or your family still use plastic containers, research to identify if they are manufactured by companies like Inhance that use PFAS in their production processes. Avoid perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA):  Specifically, avoid plastic containers containing perfluorooctanoic acid, as it is known to be carcinogenic. Filter Your Water: Reverse Osmosis is best. Shop Berkey and Aqua Tru Water Filters! Ask your water provider for data on PFAS testing in your area. If there isn’t any data, ask the provider and your state to start monitoring for a wider range of these chemicals. If there is contamination, ask your state and water provider to install treatments to remove PFAS from your water. This is only currently legally required for certain PFAS in certain states, but a provider may still do it voluntarily. Avoid non-stick cookware, like Teflon, and replace it with ceramic, stainless steel, and cast iron. Extrema and Chef's Foundry are both good options! Refuse to purchase PFAS-laden clothing. Check the brand’s website to see if it states it has eliminated PFAS from its clothing or contact customer service to ask directly. Don’t be fooled by labels or promises that a product is “PFOA-free” or “PFOS-free,” since those two particular PFAS chemicals have already been eliminated from U.S. production and there are many other PFAS-containing substitutes in use. See what brands and stores are scoring high and Low for PFAS HERE at NRDC. Refuse to purchase furniture, rugs, and bedding that are labeled as being water- or stain-repellent. Those treatments are practically guaranteed to contain PFAS. If you’re wondering about a potential purchase, check the manufacturer’s website or call customer service and inquire whether its products are PFAS-free; some manufacturers of rugs and carpets have eliminated these chemicals. Remember we vote with our dollars. There is plenty we can do and each one of us can make a difference. Be a squeaky wheel, contact your representatives, and share the knowledge. Thankfully, we have the power to take control and effectively eliminate the presence of PFAS in our drinking water. When it comes to water purification, traditional reverse osmosis technology has long been regarded as the most effective method for removing nearly all contaminants from tap water. One such company is AquaTru. AquaTru sets itself apart from conventional systems with its patented Ultra Reverse Osmosis® Technology. AquaTru effectively purifies your water without the need for complex plumbing or installation. It has earned certification to NSF standards by IAPMO for the removal of 83 contaminants, including PFAS. LAWSUIT C8 Studies Science Daily PEER The Lancet The Defender Consumer Report RE: Food Wrappers #affiliate

Colostrum is “Mother Nature’s perfect first food.” It’s the nutrient-rich fluid female mammals produce in the first few days after giving birth. It serves as the first source of nourishment for newborns and is packed with essential nutrients, antibodies, growth factors, and other bioactive compounds. Colostrum nourishes the gut microbiome, supports the mucosal barriers (gut, skin, lungs, eyes, heart, etc.), protects against infections, modulates the immune response, and regulates inflammation. This is huge! We all want a strong immune system as our defense against outside intruders. Our strong immune systems can prevent us from catching a bug, help limit the days we are down, and help us bounce back from an illness. Our immune system also regulates inflammation. And we all know inflammation is a leading cause of disease. Therefore, keeping inflammation down goes a long way regarding positive health. Most of our immune system is in our gut. That is why a healthy gut with a healthy gut biome is foundational to good health. Introducing Bio-Avail Colostrum Not all colostrum products are created equal. With Bio-Avail Colostrum you are getting 2.5 grams of cold-processed colostrum from grass-fed cows never given antibiotics, hormones, or GMOs. Plus, 100 mg of lactoferrin. Lactoferrin is a protein in the milk, tears, and saliva of mammals. It plays a vital role in defending against microbial invaders, promoting gut health, and enhancing the immune system's effectiveness. It also supports efficient iron metabolism—keeping it away from pathogens that require it and helping us to absorb it more efficiently. Lactoferrin is naturally present in small amounts in colostrum, however, a much larger amount has been added to amplify its benefits and provide better results. In addition, it contains 200 mg of beta-glucan. Beta-glucan is a naturally occurring polysaccharide in yeast, mushrooms, and other foods. It’s known as a “biological response modifier,” a class of compounds that regulate immune function. Beta-glucans help to “train” our innate immune cells, helping them to recognize and respond more quickly and efficiently to threats. Instead of boosting or suppressing the immune system, beta-glucans fine-tune it and restore balance. Today, balance is much needed. The autoimmune issues are at an epidemic proportion, this is an out-of-balanced immune response. Give it a try Bio-Avail Colostrum+ was formulated to rebuild your gut health, fortify and strengthen your immune defenses, and restore immune balance. Supporting the “gut-immune axis” is one of the most important things we can do to improve our overall health and extend our lifespan. Bio-Avail Colostrum+ promotes enhanced vitality, a more youthful and radiant appearance, and greater protection against the challenges of daily life. Wondering how to use it? You just mix it with 6-8 ounces of room-temperature water and consume it on an empty stomach. Hmmm...Enhanced vitality, a more youthful and radiant appearance, and greater protection against the challenges of daily life sound wonderful to me! What about you? Want to give Adapt Naturals Bia-Avail Colostrum a try? I truly believe it will make your gut biome happy little guys! Check it out! #Affiliate

Our Thyroids play such an important role in our health. It's a part of our endocrine system and controls many of our body's important functions by producing and secreting certain hormones. Your thyroid's main job is to control the speed of your metabolism (metabolic rate), which is the process of how your body transforms the food you consume into energy. Thyroid disorders can affect heart rate, mood, energy levels and more. Some of you may have a thyroid imbalance and not even be aware. There are natural ways to help bring balance to our thyroid. These include: Eat a Balanced Anti-Inflammatory Diet. One of the best things you can do for your thyroid is to eat a balanced anti-inflammatory diet. Particular foods can be sources of healing or stress, eat foods that are nutritionally dense, no GMOs and organic when ever possible. Get Regular Exercise. Get Enough vitamin D. (You may need to get your levels tested.) Manage Your Stress Levels. Get Enough Sleep. Get Enough Iodine and Selenium from the foods you eat. Avoid Toxins. How Do You Know If Your Thyroid Isn't Working Optimal? Common symptoms can include fatigue, cold intolerance, brain fog, joint pain, thinning hair and eyebrows (especially the outer edge), dry skin, puffy face, weak nails, weight gain and more. Your thyroid affects every system in our body. How Do You Find Out For Sure That Your Symptoms Are Due To Your Thyroid Not Working Optimal? To know for sure, you have to be tested. A lot of times when you go to your doctor, they will test one thing; It's called TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone). If it's too high, they will tell you have hypothyroidism. If it's too low, you will be told you have hyperthyroidism. If the numbers are "normal", you will be told "your thyroid is fine". However, To fully understand your thyroid function, you need lab work that tests several biomarkers and not just the TSH. Because the TSH does not always give us the full picture of the health of your thyroid. You need to ask your doctor for a full Thyroid Panel. This will include, TSH, T3, T4, and TPO. It's your right. So tell your doctor you want a full panel. Another Option In Testing Now, there is another option in testing! These days, we have the option to test right at home! Oh, how convenient! No doctor visit, no lab visit. You can do the test in your pajamas, if you like, and even on a Saturday! The home lab testing option that I have used for three years now is Paloma Health. When you order a Complete Thyroid Home Test Kit from Paloma Health, it will arrive with everything in it that is needed; clear, concise instructions, all necessary instruments, and a paid return shipping. Once you ship your samples back to the lab, you will receive your results in about 10 days via your email address. From there, if your numbers are high or low, you can either take the results to your health care provider or (and this is awesome!) you can schedule an on-line appointment with one of Paloma Health's Thyroid Specialist. This, again, is all in the privacy and conveyance of home! At the end of this page, you'll find a link that will take you to Paloma Health, with a coupon code that you can use for a very nice discount on a home test kit! There is lots of information there regarding thyroid health! In addition, Suzy Cohen RPh, America's Most Trusted Pharmacist, has written wonderful blog posts regarding thyroid, thyroid balance, natural ways to address them, and lab testing. You'll find links to two of Suzy's articles below! In addition, Suzy has formulated a Thyroid Script. Thyroid Script contains a synergistic blend of herbs, nutrients and digestive enzymes representing a scientific breakthrough for healthy thyroid function, adrenal function and food metabolism! And a Thyroid Bundle, a great combination of resources and supplements for thyroid health, energy and faster metabolism! Suzy has also published a book (several actually), titled Thyroid Healthy, that is sold on Amazon! Get Suzy's book here! Lots To Learn There is lots to learn when it comes to your thyroid health. If your thyroid isn't working optimal, you want to have a good understating of what is going on with your body so you know what steps to take to support it. Suzy Cohen's blog articles are a wonderful source of information. Although Suzy is a pharmacist, she is also a functional medicine practitioner and I sincerely appreciate her take on pharmaceuticals and I whole heartily agree with her! Suzy's blog post regarding thyroid imbalance and how to address them naturally And then this one regarding improper thyroid testing. It's a must-read! Order Your Paloma Health Complete Thyroid Blood Test Kit, Be sure to use the coupon Code PURSUANCE for $30.00 dollars off your at home Complete Thyroid Blood Test Kit! Wishing you all the best that good health has to offer Val #affiliate

These are quality, bio-available supplements that fit smoothly into your pursuit of wellness and your healthy lifestyle. Ensure you give your body everything it needs for optimal health! Here are some of the best... Bio-Avail Colostrum+ Get the benefits of three powerful gut and immune health nutrients in a single product! Benefits Fortify your immune defenses Balance and regulate your immune system Nourish your microbiome and protect your gut barrier Revitalize your health from the inside out Ingredients Colostrum, lactoferrin, and beta-glucan Key Features 2.5 grams of colostrum from 100% grass-fed, grass-finished cows to support the gut microbiome and barrier 100 mg of lactoferrin (Bioferrin) for enhanced immune defense 200 mg of beta-glucan (Wellmune) for immune balance Made without gluten on GMOs in a cGMP facility How to use Mix with 6-8 ounces of room-temperature water and consume on an empty stomach. Bio-Avail Omega+ Balance and restore. Get the benefits of fish oil, curcumin, and black seed oil in one product. Benefits Support muscle and joint health Boost cognitive function and mood Promote metabolic and heart health Balance and regulate immune function Ingredients Fish oil, curcumin, and black seed oil Key Features Ultra-pure fish oil with 510 mg EPA/330 mg DHA 500 mg of Novasol curcumin (185 times more bioavailable than standard forms) 500 mg of ThymoQuin black seed oil (3% standardized thymoquinone) Made without gluten on GMOs in a cGMP facility Core Plus Bundle Your complete daily stack. Get everything you need to feel and perform your best. Benefits Daily stack of 5 products for optimal nutrition. Food-based, naturally-occurring, bioidentical Evidence-based ingredients you can trust Formulated by Chris Kresser, a globally-renowned clinician Made without gluten or GMOs Manufactured in a U.S., cGMP facility Ingredients A complete daily stack, including our multivitamin, mushroom, organ, magnesium, and vitamin E products. Key Features Cover your bases with essential vitamins and minerals, and phytonutrients Save money and time with a streamlined daily stack Bio-Avail Organ Recover your mojo. Boost energy, unlock vibrant health, and level-up libido with "nature's multi." Benefits A blend of 5 nutrient-dense organs Sourced from 100% grass-fed cows No antibiotics or hormones Pesticide and GMO-free Freeze-dried to preserve nutrients Made without gluten or GMOs Manufactured in a U.S. cGMP facility Ingredients Liver, kidney, heart, pancreas, and spleen from 100% grass-fed and grass-finished cows. Key Features Rich source of B vitamins, zinc, copper, CoQ10, and more Equivalent to eating 1-2 servings of organ meat a week Bio-Avail Mag Sooth your body and mind. Boost metabolism, promote relaxation, and deepen your sleep. Benefits 300 mg of highly absorbable magnesium Less likely to cause G.I. side effects Promotes sleep and relaxation Helps maintain normal blood sugar Made without gluten or GMOs Manufactured in a U.S. cGMP facility Ingredients 300 mg of buffered magnesium chelate. Key Features Highly absorbable Less likely to cause GI side effects Bio-Avail E+ Slow the aging process. A unique form of vitamin E for heart, immune, and bone health. Benefits A unique form of vitamin E 100% delta- and gamma-tocotrienols Supports metabolic, cardiovascular, and bone health Promotes cellular and immune health Made without gluten or GMOs Manufactured in a U.S. cGMP facility Ingredients 300 mg of delta- and gamma-tocotrienols Key Features Sourced from the anatto plant 100% tocotrienols; no tocopherols Insure you give your body everything it needs!

Each January, we partner with Paloma Health to bring awareness to the Thyroid gland. According to recent estimates, as many as 20 million Americans could have low thyroid function. Of those 20 million, 60% may not even know it. Women are 5 to 8 times more likely than men to suffer from thyroid dysfunction, with 1 in 8 women developing thyroid issues in their lifetime. Now is your chance to test your thyroid in the comfort of your own home. We are giving away 3 Complete Thyroid Test! The kits arrive with everything needed to test your T3, T4, TSH and TPO, including easy to understand instructions. Return the samples in the postage paid envelope and in 10 days your lab results will be available. To enter, Like, Comment, and Share. Names will be randomly drawn on 01/27/24.