Do you really know what you are eating? Sure, you might know chicken and steak are sources of animal protein and that bread and apples are sources of complex carbohydrates. But, the foods you are eating may not provide you with the sources of vitamins and minerals your body requires.
For many years, now, our government has been raising our livestock with hormones and fillers and our crops have been treated with pesticides. Over the years our soils have become increasingly depleted of minerals necessary to combat disease. We are seeing disease at a younger age. Many people are dying of massive coronaries in there 30’s and 40’s. Obesity is at an all time high of 60%. High blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes are becoming a norm. This has got to stop!
The Organic Consumers Association has a national network fighting to reverse U.S. government food and agriculture priorities. Unfortunately, it is at the expense of the consumer. Individuals who are aware of government practices and value safer food, cleaner water, reduced pesticide pollution, more humane treatment of animals, and greater plant and animal biodiversity are paying more for what they put in there mouth. Without a doubt, food costs more at Wild Oats and other health food stores. But, you are guaranteed to have more vitamin and mineral enriched foods; foods that will combat and reduce disease.
It is unfortunate the U.S. leads the world in food-related cancers, heart disease, food poisoning and agricultural- related water pollution. The U.S., also, leads in hormonal, mental and behavioral damage in our youth. Seventeen percent of American youth is diagnosed with behavior or learning disabilities-directly attributable to hormone-disrupting diets and environmental toxins. Eight percent are diagnosed with having serious food allergies and 25% as having food sensitivities and intolerances. The average age for an American girl to go into puberty is around eight years of age. Forty-eight percent of American men and 38% of women will get cancer. We need to become proactive. We either eat better or we suffer the consequences.
We are between a “rock and a hard place.” We should be getting the adequate nutrition from our local grocery store. We should not be paying extra for better foods. If more and more people buy the “better” food, then the government will be forced to provide adequately at a lower price. The concept is simple, but how many of us are willing to spend the extra money? It’s a tough situation.
The other alternative is to supplement your diet with vitamins and minerals. Chlorella is a green food containing protein, fatty acids, carotenoids which combat cancer as well as vitamins and minerals. Flaxseeds rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids combat prostate tumors. Acidophilus and Lactobacillus aid in treating disturbed intestinal micro flora. CoQ10 is a wonderful anti-oxidant for the heart and provides neuroprotection for the brain. Soy protein reduces cholesterol especially isoflavones. Vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid have been shown to lower homocysteine levels and protect veins and arteries. Zinc is a mineral that will help the body’s ability to resist viruses, especially respiratory infections. Ginger root helps those who have motion sickness. Vitamin E is a great anti-oxidant to help protect from many cancers as well as bone loss. Lastly, calcium for the bones, magnesium for the heart and vitamin C for the immune system will help keep the body’s chemistry in balance. Good luck in your quest for optimal nutrition!