Over the years, I've taken many a cross-country road trip. On this particular segment of my travels, I've noticed an emergence of shops and restaurants that cater to a health-conscious population. Sure, these places have been around, but it seems like there are more of them, and in more unlikely places. I left Tucson relatively certain that it would be impossible to find some of my staples (i.e. bulk grains like buckwheat and barley, castille soap, fluoride-free toothpaste) in places other than big cities, and even then I had my doubts. I was especially doubtful of the fact that I'd be able to find restaurants offering vegan options.
I guess I was wrong. I first of all recommend (as I have before) HappyCow. This website is an amazing resource for finding health food stores, vegan and vegetarian restaurants and other healthy options in any city around the world. In my case, though, I didn't have regular internet access for most of the trek through the southwest, so I just talked to people. Our campground hosts, people who worked in big supermarkets, people in vitamin shops, and even strangers recommended places to go. I wanted to share some of the little gem's I've found along the way:
In Del Rio, Texas
Nature's Medicine Shop
This little shop is easy to spot with it's bright green front. It's stocked full of vitamins and herbal supplements, an incredible selection of books, personal care products, and dry goods like nutritional yeast, vegan bouillon cubes, gluten-free pasta, raw snack bars, and other necessities. The woman who owns the place is incredibly nice and helpful, and she has an interesting story to boot. I couldn't find a website, though, and it's not listed on HappyCow.
In Corpus Christi, Texas
Sun Harvest
1440 Airline Rd, Corpus Christi Texas361-993-2850
This health food store is relatively large. It's got a small selection of bulk foods like dry beans and grains. It's got a small selection of organic produce tucked amidst the non-organic produce. It's got bulk organic free-trade coffee, and a couple of other staple foods like organic brown rice cakes, gluten-free tortillas, and even a small refrigerator/freezer section of some vegan health foods. It was a little disappointing due to it's size (I was expecting more of a selection) but it's the only thing of it's sort here, so I still count it as a gem.
In Lafayette, Louisiana
Masala Indian Kitchen
2208 Kaliste Saloom Rd, Lafayette Louisiana337-981-6373
This delicious Indian restaurant has vegan options right on the menu, and the food is absolutely delicious. The staff is familiar with vegan diets, too, and so can answer questions and take special requests. I definitely recommend this place.
In Nashville, Tennessee (okay, there's tons of stuff in Nashville like Whole Foods and Trader Joe's but I must give a shout out to this particular restaurant)
The Wild Cow
1896 Eastland Ave, Nashville Tennessee615-262-2717
This restaurant offers vegan and vegetarian dishes. It's tucked in a quaint little area in East Nashville, and it has a great atmosphere. What I really liked about the options here is that they were pretty much free of processed foods. Lots of vegan restaurants I've been to have entrees that all feature mock meats and fake dishes like pizzas, meatballs, hot dogs, and chicken. I have a bit of an aversion to these things, so I was refreshed to see things like beans and kale, lentil stew, and other grain and veggie options on the menu. Plus, you get your pick of quinoa or rice.
In Chesterton, Indiana
Molly Bea's Ingredients
761 Indian Boundary Road
Chesterton, IN 46304
PHONE: (219) 983-9401
This place is a gem. While the local supermarket carries organic produce and packaged goods, Molly Bea's is a bulk lovers paradise. The entire store is bulk bins. They offer an incredible selection of beans (lentils of all colors, split peas, and beans of all kinds), grains (buckwheat, barley, millet, amaranth, quinoa, and rice in varieties you've never heard of), teas (oh my, what delicious blends they have!), dried fruit, and herbs and spices (yes, whole and ground, of all kinds). I could have spent days in this shop. They even have wine tastings and tea talks in the evenings.
Au Naturel Market
1708 E Lincolnway, Valparaiso Indiana219-465-198
This little market had many of the staples we use like almond butter, raw honey, brown rice cakes, and vitamins and herbal supplements. The staff is pretty helpful too. They also have a good selection of personal care products like chlorine free feminine products, and seventh generation laundry and dish soaps.
Local Flavors
1505 2 S Calumet Rd, Chesterton Indiana219-921-0488
This little eatery features a complete vegan menu. They offer mock meat products mostly, like chicken tacos. They also have vegan mac and cheese. The food is good, and it's nice to have a vegan option on the fly. I do wish they'd offer more whole foods based dishes, though. They do have a vegan desert menu, featuring sundaes and cookies, if you're looking for a little treat.
In Cleveland, Ohio
Szechwan Garden
13800 Detroit Ave, Lakewood Ohio216-226-1987
We stumbled upon this little Chinese restaurant in the throes of hunger, and unprepared with our own food stores. It has a vegetarian menu in addition to the normal menu which features many many veggie and tofu options, and some mock meat options. We tried several of the tofu dishes, which were delicious. And the peanut sauces is to die for.
In Amherst, Massachusetts (okay there are tons of options here too like Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, and every other restaurant which has at least one vegan option, but I have to give a shout out to one in particular)
Fresh Side
39 S Pleasant St, Amherst Massachusetts413-256-0296
This restaurant has the freshest food I've had at a restaurant. The many vegan options are noted on the menu. The dishes are light and don't leave you with that feeling like most restaurants leave you with (the sort of heavy, uncomfortable, I just ate out kind of feeling). They have delicious tea rolls and soups, and the lunch menu is more affordable. Also the tea selection is great, and sitting on the sidewalk on a beautiful day with a good meal is always a treat.
Well, that's all I've got so far, but we're heading down the east coast next, so I'm sure this entry will have a second volume. Spread the word, and treat your body.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Saturday, April 16, 2011
On the road, and eating well
I've been on the road for over two weeks now, camping and sticking to the back roads. I expected to be challenged trying to eat fresh, healthy food the whole time. It's really not been as bad as I thought.
A couple things that help:
1) A food dehydrator. Before hitting the road, most nights I would make double quantities of whatever we were having for dinner. Then, I dehydrated the leftovers. It's so easy, and pretty much anything goes. I've done veggies and rice, stews, soups, chili, refried beans, hummus, pasta dishes, beans, etc. The dried food keeps in a sealed bag for months, and even longer if you freeze it. To reconstitute it, just add boiling water and let it sit for 10 minutes or so. This has been a lifesaver when grocery stores aren't nearby, or time is limited.
2) A good camping stove. We had borrowed the MSR Whisperlite stove for backpacking in Yellowstone this past year. We loved how compact it was, and how easy and efficient the setup and breakdown was. It runs on white gas. We ended up buying one for this trip, and I would highly recommend it. It packs up so small, and it works wonders. I've reconstituted meals with it and made fresh meals of all sorts including pancakes.
3) Veggie wash. In most of the small towns we've run through, the tiny grocery stores have small produce sections and absolutely no organic selection at all. So, stay away from the dirty dozen, and wash everything else with veggie wash. It's better than nothing, anyway. And I think getting fresh fruits and veggies whenever possible outweighs the pesticides in the long run.
4) Talk to people. Just by talking to locals, or especially campground hosts at state and national parks, we have learned where to buy what we are looking for. We were directed toward this wonderful health food store in Del Rio, and the woman who owned that new where to buy organic produce. It's all about finding out where to go. Especially when you can't utilize the internet for happycow.com, just ask. You'll be surprised what you can find, and where.
5) Don't give in to the convenience of "food". Eat before you leave each morning, so you won't be tempted to grab snacks from gas stations or other places. Pack a lunch each morning, or snacks from your own food stores and keep them in easy reach while driving, in case you get hungry. Even in small grocery stores, you can find whole grains and foods with limited additives if you take the time to look. Roll into a big city every once in a while, so you can stock up from somewhere that carries everything you need.
So far, eating vegan and eating healthy have been relatively easy for us. So don't think it's not possible. You don't have to sacrifice your health for the sake of the road. In fact, it's even more important to make sure you stay healthy when you're far from home, or in the wilderness. Drink lots of water, keep your grains whole, and get your fruits and veggies when you can.
A couple things that help:
1) A food dehydrator. Before hitting the road, most nights I would make double quantities of whatever we were having for dinner. Then, I dehydrated the leftovers. It's so easy, and pretty much anything goes. I've done veggies and rice, stews, soups, chili, refried beans, hummus, pasta dishes, beans, etc. The dried food keeps in a sealed bag for months, and even longer if you freeze it. To reconstitute it, just add boiling water and let it sit for 10 minutes or so. This has been a lifesaver when grocery stores aren't nearby, or time is limited.
2) A good camping stove. We had borrowed the MSR Whisperlite stove for backpacking in Yellowstone this past year. We loved how compact it was, and how easy and efficient the setup and breakdown was. It runs on white gas. We ended up buying one for this trip, and I would highly recommend it. It packs up so small, and it works wonders. I've reconstituted meals with it and made fresh meals of all sorts including pancakes.
3) Veggie wash. In most of the small towns we've run through, the tiny grocery stores have small produce sections and absolutely no organic selection at all. So, stay away from the dirty dozen, and wash everything else with veggie wash. It's better than nothing, anyway. And I think getting fresh fruits and veggies whenever possible outweighs the pesticides in the long run.
4) Talk to people. Just by talking to locals, or especially campground hosts at state and national parks, we have learned where to buy what we are looking for. We were directed toward this wonderful health food store in Del Rio, and the woman who owned that new where to buy organic produce. It's all about finding out where to go. Especially when you can't utilize the internet for happycow.com, just ask. You'll be surprised what you can find, and where.
5) Don't give in to the convenience of "food". Eat before you leave each morning, so you won't be tempted to grab snacks from gas stations or other places. Pack a lunch each morning, or snacks from your own food stores and keep them in easy reach while driving, in case you get hungry. Even in small grocery stores, you can find whole grains and foods with limited additives if you take the time to look. Roll into a big city every once in a while, so you can stock up from somewhere that carries everything you need.
So far, eating vegan and eating healthy have been relatively easy for us. So don't think it's not possible. You don't have to sacrifice your health for the sake of the road. In fact, it's even more important to make sure you stay healthy when you're far from home, or in the wilderness. Drink lots of water, keep your grains whole, and get your fruits and veggies when you can.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Sunscreen and Your Skin
The search for a relatively toxin-free and vegan sunscreen was a difficult one, and one that I've explained in previous posts. The question, however, is whether or not sunscreen is a must at all!!
I have noticed that since adopting a healthier diet and lifestyle, my fairskinned burnsure body has been surprisingly free of sunburn. I didn't think much about it until this article was brought to my attention by another blogger.
It raises some very good points against the use of sunscreen. I'm not advocating limitless and careless sun exposure here, but some direct exposure, an awareness of your body, a healthy diet, adequate water, and a hat can work wonders. I know many people (family included) who suffered from cancerous spots and other types of dermatitis because of excess sun exposure in youth. So it is certainly important to use caution. BUT, with the array of toxins, chemicals, synthetics, and other hard to pronounce icky things contaminating sunscreen bottles, I'd say a little UV couldn't be that bad.
Do some research for yourself. Think about it. Listen to your body. Sunlight is a vital, vital ingredient to life. All living things use it readily. Why should we block out certain parts of it? Won't this affect our health?
Again, mull it over. Use caution and common sense. And weigh the issues at hand.
*As a side, the article I referenced here recommends Cod Liver Oil supplements- be cautious as this can contain mercury and other toxins commonly found in seafood. You can find oil extracted from the algae eaten by Cod and other fish, which has the same positive health benefits.
I have noticed that since adopting a healthier diet and lifestyle, my fairskinned burnsure body has been surprisingly free of sunburn. I didn't think much about it until this article was brought to my attention by another blogger.
It raises some very good points against the use of sunscreen. I'm not advocating limitless and careless sun exposure here, but some direct exposure, an awareness of your body, a healthy diet, adequate water, and a hat can work wonders. I know many people (family included) who suffered from cancerous spots and other types of dermatitis because of excess sun exposure in youth. So it is certainly important to use caution. BUT, with the array of toxins, chemicals, synthetics, and other hard to pronounce icky things contaminating sunscreen bottles, I'd say a little UV couldn't be that bad.
Do some research for yourself. Think about it. Listen to your body. Sunlight is a vital, vital ingredient to life. All living things use it readily. Why should we block out certain parts of it? Won't this affect our health?
Again, mull it over. Use caution and common sense. And weigh the issues at hand.
*As a side, the article I referenced here recommends Cod Liver Oil supplements- be cautious as this can contain mercury and other toxins commonly found in seafood. You can find oil extracted from the algae eaten by Cod and other fish, which has the same positive health benefits.
Friday, December 10, 2010
The Biology of Belief
I just finished listening to the audio version of The Biology of Belief by Dr. Bruce Lipton. I highly recommend checking this book out.
Lipton walks us through the anatomy and physiology of belief systems. If you need scientific evidence, he provides it. He suggests that we have the power to change our own perceptions (those rooted deep in the subconscious mind that cause illness, failure, unhappiness, and other negative responses to life) and thus empower our minds and bodies. The premise of the book is that through hypnotherapy, energy psychology, and mindfulness, one can find health, happiness, and any other goals one may seek.
We have the power to change our lives. I believed this before this book. But here is scientific proof.
So stop waiting for someone or something else to make you happy or healthy. :)
Lipton walks us through the anatomy and physiology of belief systems. If you need scientific evidence, he provides it. He suggests that we have the power to change our own perceptions (those rooted deep in the subconscious mind that cause illness, failure, unhappiness, and other negative responses to life) and thus empower our minds and bodies. The premise of the book is that through hypnotherapy, energy psychology, and mindfulness, one can find health, happiness, and any other goals one may seek.
We have the power to change our lives. I believed this before this book. But here is scientific proof.
So stop waiting for someone or something else to make you happy or healthy. :)
Vitamin D
Last week, a scientific panel from the National Academies' Institute of Medicine suggested increasing the RDA for vitamin D. They made recommendations based on all age groups, including bumping up the adult dosage to 4,000 IU daily. You can read the article here:
http://www.usnews.com/science/articles/2010/11/30/vitamin-d-targets-increased.html?s_cid=rss:vtripling itamin-d-targets-increased
However, many scientists have immediately countered and rejected these suggestions. Dr. Clifford Rosen, in this interview with NPR, suggested that actually we need very little vitamin D levels to maintain health, and that intaking too much (thousands of IU's daily) could really be harmful (increased risk of certain diseases and fractures).
http://www.npr.org/2010/11/30/131704380/panel-clarifies-vitamin-d-intake
So, what to do?
According to Patrick Holford, in The Optimum Nutrition Bible, optimal daily intake is 400 IU (this includes food and sunshine as sources). So, one only needs to supplement 120 to 200 IU.
Signs of vitamin D deficiency include soft bones and teeth, fractures, and bone curvature.
I believe it is important to consider that the average person does not get exposed to adequate sunlight each day. I also believe that most of the fortified food sources of vitamin D (dairy, etc.) are not ideal. Dairy also includes saturated fats, and often growth hormones and antibiotics. Often fortified milk contains vitamin A, which in certain forms, can actually weaken bones.
I wonder about the studies that brought about these new suggestions (and rejections) about vitamin D levels. Each person is different, and many factors could contribute to vitamin D needs. Darkness of skin, climate/latitude, sun exposure, diet (Vit D works together with calcium to strengthen bones, so if you aren't getting enough of either, you could have problems), other health concerns, etc.
In regards to vitamin D toxicity, I've found 50,000 IU to be the going number for upper intake that can cause negative affects in most adults. Signs of toxicity:
source: Merck Manual http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/sec01/ch004/ch004k.html
Vitamin D plays a vital role in bone health, immune activity, absorption in the intestines, kidney function, parathyroid hormone secretion, and insulin secretion. So, I think it is necessary to supplement. But how much?
It is important to thoroughly consider your physical makeup and lifestyle when deciding on a recommended dose. Do your research, talk to your nutritional consultant, and consider getting your vitamin D levels tested.
http://www.usnews.com/science/articles/2010/11/30/vitamin-d-targets-increased.html?s_cid=rss:vtripling itamin-d-targets-increased
However, many scientists have immediately countered and rejected these suggestions. Dr. Clifford Rosen, in this interview with NPR, suggested that actually we need very little vitamin D levels to maintain health, and that intaking too much (thousands of IU's daily) could really be harmful (increased risk of certain diseases and fractures).
http://www.npr.org/2010/11/30/131704380/panel-clarifies-vitamin-d-intake
So, what to do?
According to Patrick Holford, in The Optimum Nutrition Bible, optimal daily intake is 400 IU (this includes food and sunshine as sources). So, one only needs to supplement 120 to 200 IU.
Signs of vitamin D deficiency include soft bones and teeth, fractures, and bone curvature.
I believe it is important to consider that the average person does not get exposed to adequate sunlight each day. I also believe that most of the fortified food sources of vitamin D (dairy, etc.) are not ideal. Dairy also includes saturated fats, and often growth hormones and antibiotics. Often fortified milk contains vitamin A, which in certain forms, can actually weaken bones.
I wonder about the studies that brought about these new suggestions (and rejections) about vitamin D levels. Each person is different, and many factors could contribute to vitamin D needs. Darkness of skin, climate/latitude, sun exposure, diet (Vit D works together with calcium to strengthen bones, so if you aren't getting enough of either, you could have problems), other health concerns, etc.
In regards to vitamin D toxicity, I've found 50,000 IU to be the going number for upper intake that can cause negative affects in most adults. Signs of toxicity:
| "Anorexia, nausea, and vomiting can develop, often followed by polyuria, polydipsia, weakness, nervousness, pruritus, and eventually renal failure. Proteinuria, urinary casts, azotemia, and metastatic calcifications (particularly in the kidneys) can develop." |
source: Merck Manual http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/sec01/ch004/ch004k.html
Vitamin D plays a vital role in bone health, immune activity, absorption in the intestines, kidney function, parathyroid hormone secretion, and insulin secretion. So, I think it is necessary to supplement. But how much?
It is important to thoroughly consider your physical makeup and lifestyle when deciding on a recommended dose. Do your research, talk to your nutritional consultant, and consider getting your vitamin D levels tested.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Senate Bill S 510- Threatening the future of food
So, Senate Bill S510 is on the table... and it could be up for vote as early as tomorrow.
Here's a summary.
Here's a summary.
This bill is entitled the Food Safety Modernization Act. And while it does have many provisions for regulating food, including more accountability and testing by big food producers, it also threatens small farms and small food facilities that sell directly to local communities. This includes CSA's and other sources of fresh, organic food supplying many areas. If passed as is, this bill would mean fees and regulations for small farmers that would likely put them out of business. Urge your senators to vote FOR the Tester Amendment to this bill, which would exempt small farmers. Furthermore, do the research. If you do not support S510 in its entirety, tell your representatives!
Read about the threats imposed by S510 here.
Contact your senators here.
Don't know what to write? Try this.
Do it now! Let's protect our rights to grown our own food and save our seeds.
Read about the threats imposed by S510 here.
Contact your senators here.
Don't know what to write? Try this.
Do it now! Let's protect our rights to grown our own food and save our seeds.
Monday, November 15, 2010
The Dangers of Fluoride
Fluoride is a chemical additive found in most city water (tap water), and in multitudes of toothpastes and other dental products. As I kid, I remember coming home from the dentist with a bottle full of fluoride and being told to brush with it alone once per day.
I've heard things here and there about the dangers of fluoride, but I think that more and more research is coming out proving that it really is no good at all- especially for what it's used for (making enamel stronger). Both the Center for Disease Control and the American Dental Association have claimed that fluoride, especially when given to infants and toddlers, can cause major problems.
Fluorosis causes white and brown spots on the teeth (and presumably the bones). Over exposure to fluoride disrupts the growth process of bones and teeth, causing visible malformations. While many pro-fluoride groups claim that these defects are simply cosmetic, common sense tells us that visible flaws in the protective layers of teeth will certainly lead to other, deeper, problems.
Since most toothpaste, mouth wash, and other dental products contain fluoride, this is a very important issue. Choose toothpastes that are fluoride-free, and drink only water that has been filtered (activated charcoal and ozonated are best). This is especially important for infants and children. Research is coming out in droves about the ill effects of feeding babies formula that has been reconstituted with fluoride containing water. If you do feed your infant formula, use filtered, fluoride-free water. This is also important for children learning to brush their teeth. While fluoride containing toothpaste shouldn't be used at any age, according to many studies, it especially should not be swallowed. So for young children who haven't quite learned the rinsing technique, be certain that the toothpaste you give them is fluoride-free.
The dangers of fluoride, according to the article linked above, include:
I've heard things here and there about the dangers of fluoride, but I think that more and more research is coming out proving that it really is no good at all- especially for what it's used for (making enamel stronger). Both the Center for Disease Control and the American Dental Association have claimed that fluoride, especially when given to infants and toddlers, can cause major problems.
Fluorosis causes white and brown spots on the teeth (and presumably the bones). Over exposure to fluoride disrupts the growth process of bones and teeth, causing visible malformations. While many pro-fluoride groups claim that these defects are simply cosmetic, common sense tells us that visible flaws in the protective layers of teeth will certainly lead to other, deeper, problems.
Since most toothpaste, mouth wash, and other dental products contain fluoride, this is a very important issue. Choose toothpastes that are fluoride-free, and drink only water that has been filtered (activated charcoal and ozonated are best). This is especially important for infants and children. Research is coming out in droves about the ill effects of feeding babies formula that has been reconstituted with fluoride containing water. If you do feed your infant formula, use filtered, fluoride-free water. This is also important for children learning to brush their teeth. While fluoride containing toothpaste shouldn't be used at any age, according to many studies, it especially should not be swallowed. So for young children who haven't quite learned the rinsing technique, be certain that the toothpaste you give them is fluoride-free.
The dangers of fluoride, according to the article linked above, include:
- Disrupts synthesis of collagen
- Increased lead absorption
- Hyperactivity and/or lethargy
- Muscle disorders
- Brain damage, and lowered IQ
- Arthritis
- Bone fractures
- Lowered thyroid function
- Bone cancer
- Dementia
- Inactivates 62 enzymes
- Inhibits formation of antibodies
- Genetic damage and cell death
- Increases tumor and cancer rate
- Disrupts immune system
- Damages sperm and increases infertility
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