A Good Reason to Go Organic

A recent study published in Diabetes Care found a strong relationship between Type II diabetes and the body burden of six pollutants:

• a PCB: hexachlorobiphenyl
• 2 dioxins: heptadioxin and OCDdioxin
• 2 pesticides: oxychlordane and trans-nonachlor, and
• a pesticide metabolite: DDE, a metabolite of DDT

These contaminants were detectable in more than 80 percent of the study participants. Those in the highest-exposure category were almost 38 times more likely to have diabetes than those in the lowest exposure category.

The average American takes in nearly a gallon of pesticides per year by eating conventionally grown fruits and vegetables.

By choosing organic, you can reduce your risk of diabetes (and many other chronic illnesses).

Something to think about....

Faye Durham
Health Care Consultant

Four Ways to Improve Your Health

I'm not a big fan of new year's resolutions but they have their place. One of the biggest reasons for not sticking to them is the lack of time.

But, there are many simple things you can do to improve your health - in just 10 minutes or less and you can start with them right away:

1. Get outside for ten minutes of sunshine a day to generate vitamin D, which will boost your immune system.

2. Eat an apple a day. They contain antioxidants and are a good source of fiber, which helps detoxify the body.

3. Stretch several times per day. Simply reach for the sky and then put every joint in your body through its total range of motion. Breath deeply.

4. Sneak in some exercise. For instances, when you go shopping, park at the end of the parking lot and walk to the store entrance. Once in the store, go up and down the aisles or take the stairs rather than the elevator.

Finally, count your blessings. And, make time to improve your health and well being.

Faye Durham