Organyx Lifestyle Blog

The Seven Rules of Cell Phone Safety

2011-02-11T21:07:00.000-08:00

Are Cell Phones Bad For You?

Cell phones are as convenient now, as cigarettes were cool back in the good old days, when no one knew about the dangers of smoking. Yet, one of the biggest smoking guns in American culture today is the massive use of cell phones. This is becoming a global issue as worldwide marketing of technology expands without regard to sustainability or human health.

The cell phone industry uses toxic ingredients, one of which must be harvested from the rainforests of poorer nations, such as the Congo in Africa. The migrant workers who harvest this precious metal camp in the jungle and are fed local animal meats to survive, including endangered Gorilla. Recycling programs could be used to phase out this unsustainable mining. However, ethics of using a cell phone must seriously be considered in relation to protecting the environment and endangered species.

Possibly the most disturbing issue about cell phones is the radiation. It has been proven that cell phone radiation, which operates disturbingly close to microwave frequencies, can penetrate the brain on the side of the head that it is being used. This penetration is even more damaging to children who have thinner skulls that allow the radiation to travel even deeper into the brain, almost to the other side of the head.

Studies have also shown that using a cell phone for 10 years or more almost doubles the risk of a brain tumor on the side of the head that the cell phone is regularly used on. That may be why brain surgeons all over the country, including top surgeons at Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, will not hold a cell phone up to their head. What to do instead? There are certain headsets made with an air tube that transfers sound, not radiation to the ear. The head can be further protected with a ferrite bead placed on the wire to block any radiation. Regular wired headsets amplify radiation into the head, and bluetooth headsets are even worse, constantly radiating the side of the head it's worn on. Using the speaker phone is another safer option.

The power of human intelligence on what is inherently good and bad for one’s health is surprisingly correct most of the time. When we look back at smoking in the early twentieth century, there were many who blew the whistle before the "studies" were in. But as a society, we waited for the results of such smoking to actually accumulate on people’s health to prove the obvious health risks. Prevention is the best cure, and many people suffered waiting for the “studies” to come out. In the case of cell phones, the "studies" are just starting to come in. Are we going to listen now, or wait until we are sure, and who will pay the price for that?

Many people have questioned the idea of cell phones and their safety. But, in a corporate run society, these questions have been denied a proper answer in the name of capitalism. It is not fair that industries are able to harm mass quantities of people scott free until “proven” otherwise, particularly when the proof is being suppressed by a mass market controlled media. Now, we have the proof, but is it being spread around the nation to help people? It is only being shared through underground independent media such as blogs, websites, and journals. Now, off my soap box and on to the topic at hand.

Cell phones can be a lifesaver in emergency situations, but their overuse has risks that we must currently recognize or pay the consequences. The group we should be most concerned about are children, who are particularly sensitive to cell phone radiation and have unprecedented levels of exposure. There are many things we can do to lower our risk, while still using a cell phone. Here are,

The Seven Rules of Cell Phone Safety:

Never allow children to use a cell phone. (Emergencies only!)
Always use speakerphone or a safe air-tube headset. (Avoid Bluetooth and wired headsets which direct radiation to the brain.)
Limit cell phone usage. To reduce exposure time, text rather than call for shorter conversations. Consider getting a home phone or utilizing internet phone services.
Keep cell phones away from your body. Within 6 inches of the antenna is the Highest Danger Zone!
Keep your cell phone away from you while sleeping. A minimum of 3 feet away from you; in the next room & turned off is ideal.
Good reception is a good time to call. Cell phones emit more radiation searching for a signal than when there is good reception.
Turn your cell phone off when not in use. Disconnect, enjoy and feel the freedom!

The Truth About BPA in Paper Receipts

2010-06-11T13:40:00.000-07:00

We all know that paper receipts tend to add up pretty quickly. With all the online tools for managing money, like Mint.com, it's a wonder we even need receipts anymore. Besides the obvious waste and environmental pollution, the thin, slippery paper receipts printed at most businesses are a very high source of Bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine disrupting chemical.

BPA is most commonly found in plastic #7, and in the lining of metal food and drink containers. This known hormone disruptor is a chemical that mimicks estrogen, otherwise known as a xenoextrogen. Exposure can be detrimental to a developing fetus, children, teens, and adults of all ages. BPA is suspected to contribute to many chronic diseases and hormonal imbalance. For this reason, many people choose to avoid polycarbonate plastics and canned food (Eden Organic Brand has BPA free canned products at www.Edenfoods.com).

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but the exposure levels of BPA from paper receipts printed on thermal imaging paper is much greater than that from food containers. There is miniscule leakage from plastic food containers that can be measured in the nanograms. However, there are 60-100 milligrams of free BPA on the average cash register receipt. "Free" being the key word here, the toxin is not bound in the plastic, but free to transfer onto skin and then potentially onto food that is ingested.

This can be avoided by washing your hands after touching these receipts, and especially before meals. It is also a good idea to keep receipts stored in a plastic bag out of reach from children and away from the kitchen. This is a serious matter that can easily be avoided with proper attention. Want to go a step further? Consider accepting less paper receipts, it's good for the planet and it's good for you, too!

Scary Cosmetic Ingredients ~ What Teens Are Doing About It!

2009-10-29T16:14:00.000-07:00

There is a new group called Teens Turning Green dedicated to educating youth and adults about the dangers of cosmetic ingredients, like formaldehyde. Hidden in many everyday products we use, chemicals have effects on our brains, hormones, immune systems, and more. It's important to educate yourself about ingredients that are safe to use. A list of ingredients to avoid can be found here on the Organyx Lifestyle Blog. Safe brands can be found at health food stores and drug stores. Teens Turning Green even has a new line of skin care products coming out at Whole Foods Markets!

The Real War on Drugs!

2009-09-29T12:28:00.000-07:00

The average death rate due to illegal drug use is 10,000 people per year.

The average death rate due to prescription drugs is 100,000 people per year.

You do the math...

With all the public campaigns against illegal drugs, it's surprising that no one is warning us about the dangers of prescription drugs. Think twice before putting your life in the hands of your doctor and the pharmaceutical industry. As is the case with any substance you put in your body, do your research first.

Source:

The Terrifying Side Effects of Prescription Drugs

Personal Care Products

2009-09-29T12:26:00.000-07:00

Awh, the drugstore, full of tempting concoctions of toxic chemicals. Little do we know that most of the ingredients in personal care items today are linked to reproductive trouble, hormonal imbalance, even cancer. Why, then, are they allowed? It's a complicated system between our government and big business. There is money in the production and sale of these chemicals. There is also money in the health care costs associated with their long term use. From cancer to fertility, medical treatments are big bussiness in this country. So are prescription drugs. Anyway, let's get back to the subject at hand.

Every day items, like, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and deodorant contain ingredients that have not been proven safe, or are already on the carcinogen list. Most people are ignorant of this, not knowing the aluminum in their antipersperant triggers alzheimer's when absorbed into their bodies over time. Women unknowingly poison themselves daily with the toxic ingredients in hairspray, fingernail polish, and makeup.

What can we do about this? Well, for one we need to take control of our government and make stricter standards for the industries that are poisoning us. The European Union sets a good example of this by requiring labeling for GE food, and outlawing carcinogenic ingredients in personal care products. It will take time for change. In the meantime, we can boycott products containing those ingredients that are harmful to us.

This is easier said then done. Even products found in the health food store can have questionable ingredients. You really have to know your stuff. So here's an easy way to do it. Make a list of the most damaging chemicals and put it to memory. Then you can scan for them in the ingredients of the products you buy. Some of the chemicals to avoid are as follows.

Sodium Laurel Sulfate (SLS) - But, why? It's in my shampoo, body wash, toothpaste... It has been found to cause skin cancer in lab rats. Funny the increase in skin cancer over the last 100 years that we've been using it. SLS is also known to cause contact dermititis, itchy scalp, rashes, etc... Best to avoid it. (Burt's Bees makes wonderful SLS free all natural shampoo)

FD&C - colors used in makeup are proven to cause cancer. Talc - causes acne.

Pthalates - found in nail polish, hairspray, synthetic fragrances, and used in plastics, are endocrine disruptors. That means they upset the natural balance of hormones causing fertility issues, birth defects, and lower sperm count. Perhaps the pharmacuetical industry doesn't mind the effects of pthalates because, there's a pill for that! The trick to avoiding products that contain these nasty chemicals? Pthalates hide under other name Fragrance, and PVC. Look for phalate-free nail polish (Sally Hanson has recently made that promise).

Propoline Glycol - Synthetic chemical used as the main ingredient in anti-freeze and a humectant in skin care lotions. It causes allergic skin reactions, such as hives and eczema.

Petrolatum - This comes from petroleum, the same thing we put in our cars. It is commonly found in lip products, makeup, and lotions. Mineral oil and petroleum jelly are other names, and it clogs pores. Why do all the oil blotting papers at the drugstore contain mineral oil? Perhaps, so we'll buy some acne products, too.

Methyl, Propyl, Butyl, and Ethyl Paraben - are synthetic preservatives linked to hormonal imbalance. Parabens have an estrogenic effect on the body when absorbed by the skin, and are known to cause skin irritation. Why, then, are they in almost every product on drugstore shelves?

Stearalkonium Chloride - is an ammonia derivitive developed by the fabric industry as a fabric softener, which is also in hair conditioner. Another chemical I don't want running down my back.

DEA & TEA - Diethanolamine & Triethanolamine are ammonia compounds and toxic ingredients as foaming agents. They cause eye irritation, allergic reactions, skin and hair dryness. DEA & TEA can become carcinogenic if they come into contact with nitrates.

PVP/VA Copolymer - is a petroleum derived chemical found in hairsprays that is dangerous to inhale.

Formaldahyde - a known carcinogen, is hidden under other names in personal care items. Watch out for: Quaternium-15, Bronopol, Imidazolidinyl or Diazolidinyl Urea, Germall II or 115, DMDM Hydantoin.

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER - USE IT!

Organic Shopping List

2009-09-29T12:25:00.001-07:00

The most common genetically modified crops are cotton, corn, soy, and canola (or rapeseed). The only way to avoid them is to only purchase organic. Dairy and meat products contain hormones & antibiotic residues. Highly sprayed conventional crops are also to be avoided. Buy organic whenever you can. Protect yourself and reduce pesticides in your body by using the following lists. High pesticide crops are on the Always Purchase Organic list. Low pesticide crops are Okay to Buy Conventional. Shopping guidelines are listed below.

Always Purchase Organic:
-Grapes*
-Berries*
-Tomatoes**
-Potatoes**
-Carrots*
-Corn**
-Soy**
-Peppers*
-Celery*
-Apples*
-Nectarines*
-Peaches*
-Cotton*
-Dairy***
-Meat***
-Poultry***

Okay to Buy Conventional****:
-Broccoli
-Cauliflower
-Asparagus
-Onions
-Banana
-Avocado
-Mango

*high pesticide / herbicide crop
**conventional is likely genetically modified
***hormone & antibiotic residues, genetically modified feed
****These crops are grown conventionally with a low amount of pesticides & herbicides.

Got Raw Milk?

2009-09-29T12:23:00.000-07:00

The most important dairy product lacking in this country is raw milk. Why, do you ask? Well, raw milk contains beneficial enzymes that are killed during pasteurization and/or homogenization. These processes are the biggest problem with milk production in this country today (besides the need for everything to be organic!)

Pasteurization vs. Homoginization ~ What's the difference?

Pasteurization is a process of heating milk to a temperature of nearly 150 degrees for 30 minutes. Flash pasteurization heats the liquid at a higher temperature for a shorter time period. Homoginization forces the milk at high pressure through a small nozzle to separate the cream. Conventional milk is not safe to drink unless it is pastuerized, killing the bacteria. The process starts by dipping dirty cow's udders in a chemical disinfectant prior to milking. Conventional cows regularly consume hormone & antibiotic laced genetically modified feed, passing it on to us in their milk. Additives in milk are especially harmful to children. Both pasteurization and homoginization alter milks biological structure, killing several enzymes in the process.

Beneficial enzymes make raw milk easier on the digestive tract. Milk has far more nutrients in it's natural raw state. Those sensitive to cow's milk often find raw milk fine to consume. It tastes delicious! Trust me, it's better than the conventional milk you're used to. And, don't worry! Drinking raw milk is safe when it comes from a clean organic farm. Ask for it at your local heath food store.

There is also goat milk as an alternative. Goat milk is best for those allergic to cow's dairy. Goat milk has a mention in the Bible for it's healing abilities. With more vitamins minerals and beneficial fatty acids than cow's milk, you've got to try it!

Non-dairy options include hemp milk, rice milk, and nut milk. You can make these at home for the healthiest raw versions. Or experiment with unsweetened store bought varietys.

Avoid Soymilk because soy is overconsumed, hidden in packaged food, and causes allergies.

Avoid the Flu Shot

2009-09-29T12:21:00.000-07:00

Why, you ask? The flu shot is just a way for the pharmacuetical industry to make money off your fears. The flu shot is only around 30% effective in preventing influenza. Side effects and toxic chemicals in the flu vaccine make protecting yourself through healthy lifestyle choices safer. According to Dr. Mercola.com, toxic ingredients in vaccines include:

Ethylene glycol (antifreeze)
Phenol, also known as carbolic acid (this is used as a disinfectant, dye)
Formaldehyde, a known cancer-causing agent
Aluminum, which is associated with Alzheimer's disease and seizures and also cancer producing in laboratory mice (it is used as an additive to promote antibody response)
Thimerosal (a mercury disinfectant/preservative) can result in brain injury and autoimmune disease
Neomycin and Streptomycin (used as antibiotics) have caused allergic reaction in some people.

Vaccines are processed with animal or human tissue, which is too disgusting to even get into. So, if you are vegetarian or vegan for ethical reasons, vaccines are not for you.

Thermosal in vaccines is linked to autism. Funny, how autism rates have skyrocketed along with the use of vaccines on children. In most countries, thermosal is banned. While it has been phased out of most vaccines in this country, thermosal is still present in routine vaccinations given to newborns.

Due to all the risks associated with the flu vaccine and others, I suggest protecting yourself from disease in other ways. It is important to get plenty of rest, eat a balanced diet, plus get a little sunlight and excercise everyday. You can greatly reduce your risk of cold & flu by washing your hands regularly, taking appropriate dietary suppliments, and finding ways to reduce stress; like meditation, listening to relaxing music, or practicing yoga.

Freak Out!

2009-09-29T12:20:00.001-07:00

When I first found out about the 7 uglies: Coal Tar Colors (D&C, FD&C), Diethanolamine (DEA), Formaldehyde (aka: DMDM Hydantoin, Diazolidinal Urea, Quaternium-15, Bronopol), Lead Acetate, Mercury, Pthalates, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), that they all cause cancer when applied to the skin and are all commonly found in personal care products, I freaked out. I went through everything in my bathroom and kitchen, getting rid of products containing these chemicals.

My best advice to you, is not to freak out about the fact that many products you use contain cancer causing & other health negating chemicals. Don't get rid of everything you are using right away. Slowly, phase them out of your house, replacing each empty bottle with a product not containing these harmful chemicals. Remember to use common sense and make an educated decision on what products to buy/use. Look at products individually. If a product has mostly natural ingredients with one "bad" chemical, I might allow it into my medicine cabinet if the product performs well.

Organyx by Rachel Anne: 100% Organic Cotton Clothing

Helping to make a change toward a healthier lifestyle!

Cosmetic Ingredients to Avoid

2009-09-29T12:18:00.000-07:00

Make a list of these ingredients on an index card and bring it to the store with you.

-Formaldehyde; a known carcinogen (which means it causes cancer) usually listed as: Quaternium-15, Bronopol, Imidazolidinyl or Diazolidinyl Urea, Germall II or 115, DMDM Hydantoin

-Methyl, Propyl, Butyl & Ethyl Parabens; synthetic preservatives, suspected endocrine disruptors (causes hormonal & reproductive problems)

-Petrolatum; made from petroleum, clogs pores

-Propylene Glycol; the main ingredient in anti-freeze!

-PVP/VA Copolymer; petroleum-derived chemical

-Sodium Lauryl (or Laureth) Sulfate; causes skin, eye, and nervous system damage

-Stearalkonium Chloride; found in hair conditioner, ingredient in fabric softener

-Synthetic Coal Tar Colors: FD&C, D&C, Lake; made from coal tar, carcinogenic

-Diethanolamine & Triethanolamin (DEA, TEA, MEA); carcinogenic

-Lead Acetate; used in hair dye, toxic

-Mercury; linked to a host of serious health problems, used in tooth fillings

ENDOCRINE DISRUPTER CHEMICALS:

-nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs); used in detergents

-Phthalates; linked to birth defects, found in: Fragrances, Vinyl, Plastics, Nail Polish, Hairspray...

Why Organic?

2009-09-29T12:16:00.000-07:00

When I tell people about my new organic cotton clothing line, Organyx by RachelAnne, the most common question they ask is, why organic? How is organic cotton different from regular cotton? The answers to these questions should be common knowledge. Yet every day people don't know, making environmentally unconscious decisions due to ignorance. My goal is to educate people on green living, holistic lifestyle or what I like to call, the Organic Revolution. This encompasses everything from sustainable agriculture to green housing; earth friendly clothing to natural medicine. Living modern lives with respect for the environment is the art of the Organyx Lifestyle.

Let’s get back to the question at hand. Why organic? What’s the difference between conventional and organic cotton? The difference is that organic cotton is grown without pesticides and manufactured without chemicals. Regular manufacturing practices leave cotton products, such as bed sheets, clothing, and towels with a chemical residue that washing alone will not remove. This residue is absorbed by the skin or inhaled throught the lungs, negatively affecting the body. On a larger scale, pesticide/insecticide use on cotton crops and chemicals used in manufacturing pollute the environment. This pollution enters the soil, travels through our water supply, and ends up inside our bodies. Over time, these chemicals have an array of negative affects on the body from decreasing fertility to causing cancer.

Our food supply is damaged due to pesticide and insecticide sprayed on crops. Pesticide residue on produce cannot simply be washed away. Some chemicals actually grow within the cells of the plants from years and years of residues building up in the soil. By eating organic produce we reduce the amount of chemicals entering our bodies and the pollution in our environment. This benefits human health and that of the earth as a whole.

The Organic Revolution suggests a needed shift in how consumer products are produced. Organic farming is necessary to improve human health and sustain our environment. Make a small shift with your purchasing power and start buying organic. Individual efforts will add up over time. We have to start somewhere. Why not with some organic cotton clothing from my new line, Organyx by RachelAnne. Shop Organyx.net